The Hidden Faces Series by Golden Keyes Parsons is a series of novellas about women of faith, who met Jesus. In the series there is the woman at the well; the woman caught in adultery; the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment, and the book I am reviewing today, the woman who anointed Jesus' feet with oil.
As a child, Tirzah could not understand why the other children were not allowed to play with her nor even why she could not go to school like the other children. As she grew, she began to wonder why her mother had so many male visitors, something her mother did everything she could to protect her from. But when Tirzah's mother dies as Tirzah comes into young womanhood, she is left with nothing; nothing with which to purchased food or other necessities or to pay rent. With her best friend Claudia, a cripple from birth, the young women strive to live without succumbing to her mother's occupation, one that also her grandmother's occupation, prostitution.
Sadly, Tirzah is left with no other recourse and begins to follow in her mother's footsteps into a life she never wanted for herself. Her friend Claudia continues to bake bread to help supplement their income. As time goes by, something in Tirzah begins to shrivel and her spirit becomes more saddened; and Claudia, her crippled foot begins to trouble her more and more, until she just barely stand. Then they hear about Jesus...Tirzah knows he can heal Claudia and is determined to make sure her friend meets him. But what about Tirzah? Surely the things she has done are unforgiveable and Jesus would never associate with the likes of her.
Drawn to him, Tirzah and Claudia make plans to go to a feast at Simon's house; Jesus will be there. Claudia walks on feet that have been made whole, but Tirzah carries a heart heavy with guilt and shame...she also carries an alabaster box full of perfume. Expensive perfume. What could she possibly be planning to do with it? Even Tirzah doesn't know what happens next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required.
PS. I would be remiss if I did not note that Golden Keyes Parsons died in a car accident in February of 2017. While she may be gone from this earth, her voice lives on in her family, her books and her life. Rest well, Golden Keyes Parsons.