Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Book Review #77: Petra: City of Stone by T.L. Higley

Petra: City of Stone
by T.L. Higley

Genre: Historical Fiction / Christian
Ages: 15 and up
I received an e-book of this from NetGalley for review.

Amazon Description:
Petra, the wondrous ancient city carved from the mountains of modern Jordan, is at the height of its glory in this gripping historical novel by T. L. Higley. A young widow, Cassia, and her son, Alexander, have arrived there seeking protection with her late husband's estranged family. But when Cassia discovers the man she married was heir to the throne, the power-hungry Queen Hagiru plots to murder Alexander so that her own child will someday rule. The queen, priestess of the sun-god, Dushrat, calls on demonic powers in her quest, but Cassia is prepared for the fierce spiritual battle to save her son, joining a Roman named Julian and his community of believers in the Jewish Messiah. Together they seek a mighty movement of God far stronger than any dark heart or city made of stone.

My Review:
The city of Petra has always fascinated me, so I was very excited to read this book. The idea of a city built into solid rock is just marvelous. This book is not strictly historically accurate, but I have read worse. The author did a good job keeping the flavor of the times.

Cassia was an interesting heroine. She has suffered much in her life, and all she wants is to keep her son safe and by her side. When he is stolen from her, who will she turn to? Will she ask God for aid or will she give in to despair? Her doubts and difficulties were understandable, but there were a few moments when I wanted to smack her.

Julian was equally interesting. After the death of his betrothed in the arena, he fled to Petra to begin a new life. God is calling on him to lead, but that could mean giving up what he wants most. Though he is a firm believer, he has trouble accepting God's plan for him.

I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to others interested in Christian historical fiction and exotic locales.

Content Ratings: Profanity, Sexuality and Violence
1 (mild) through 10 (extreme).

Profanity:
There is no profanity in this book.

Sexuality:
I rate it a 3.10 for hints, references and an attempted rape.

Violence:
I give this book a 6.10 for murder, attempted murder and a scene of battle violence.

                                          Lieder Madchen

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