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Yoke of Babylon #1
A Light Undimmed
Pawned to the besieging Butcher of Babylon, one Hebrew noblewoman determines to shine with Yahweh’s light while seeking to be of use to the innocents of doomed Jerusalem.
In besieged Jerusalem, a Judean noblewoman is thrust into the perilous role of courier. Sent to Babylon's commanding general, she soon discovers she is more than a messenger—she's a pawn to a wicked king and a servant to a mighty God. Most surprising yet is the curious mind of Babylon’s bloodiest general—could Judah’s Yahweh truly be the God Most High?
Faced with the impossible, Liora must be bold, speak Truth, and do so without knowing whether the Butcher of Babylon will release her in the end…or keep her as his own.
In this tale of war, deception, and betrayal, one woman emerges as a beacon, a light undimmed in the shadows of Jerusalem’s ruins.
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In besieged Jerusalem, a Judean noblewoman is thrust into the perilous role of courier. Sent to Babylon's commanding general, she soon discovers she is more than a messenger—she's a pawn to a wicked king and a servant to a mighty God. Most surprising yet is the curious mind of Babylon’s bloodiest general—could Judah’s Yahweh truly be the God Most High?
Faced with the impossible, Liora must be bold, speak Truth, and do so without knowing whether the Butcher of Babylon will release her in the end…or keep her as his own.
In this tale of war, deception, and betrayal, one woman emerges as a beacon, a light undimmed in the shadows of Jerusalem’s ruins.
Purchase your copy now!
Stay in touch.
Sign up for April's NEWSLETTER at
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 18, 2024
60 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
April W. Gardner
22 books288 followersApril W Gardner is an award-winning biblical fiction author whose great passion is writing stories with little-known biblical figures and events. April lives in South Texas with her husband and two German shepherds. She's a beekeeper, a polyglot, and an avid traveler who dreams of visiting all the national parks.
You can find April at these locations:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
BookBub
You can find April at these locations:
Website
BookBub
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 16, 2024
This is a truly immersive story that takes us back to Babylon’s siege, invasion, and destruction of Jerusalem in 587 B.C. and reminds us that none of us is beyond the reach of God’s grace.
We all worship something; we harness ourselves to something/someone who we think will help us or offer us a way to achieve our vision. For General Nebuzzaradan, he chose to harness himself to something that would bring life, rather than take life. For too long, he’s been known as the Butcher of Babylon but when a Jewish noblewoman is pawned to him by Judah’s King Zedekiah, we see a different side of this fierce warrior.
Liora arrives in the Babylonian camp as a courier, but her light illuminates the darkest recesses of Nebuzzaradan’s heart and he realizes he doesn’t want her out of his presence. Through this brave courier, we see Neb as God sees him.
Liora’s example spoke to me of the need of ‘letting go, and letting God.’ It would have been so much easier for her to try to save herself or get revenge, but she chose to be an instrument in God’s plan. She may not understand it, but her willingness spoke to me. I loved her tenacity, her willingness and her desire to put God first - even ahead of her own life. Her example inspired me in my journey to become ‘a light undimmed’.
I also liked the reminder about redemption and that none of us is beyond God’s forgiveness and grace. We all need those reminders! I also appreciated being reminded that in God’s eyes, we are not who we were in the past, but who we are becoming.
The part that will stick with me the longest is ‘the mark.’ Do I have the mark that indicates I’m His?
I love a story that prompts me to pick up my bible. I found myself reading through the book of Jeremiah and refreshing myself about the biblical setting of Liora and Neb’s story.
This story, book one in the Yoke of Babylon series, is one I’d encourage you to read if you’re feeling discouraged or unsure of your influence.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
We all worship something; we harness ourselves to something/someone who we think will help us or offer us a way to achieve our vision. For General Nebuzzaradan, he chose to harness himself to something that would bring life, rather than take life. For too long, he’s been known as the Butcher of Babylon but when a Jewish noblewoman is pawned to him by Judah’s King Zedekiah, we see a different side of this fierce warrior.
Liora arrives in the Babylonian camp as a courier, but her light illuminates the darkest recesses of Nebuzzaradan’s heart and he realizes he doesn’t want her out of his presence. Through this brave courier, we see Neb as God sees him.
Liora’s example spoke to me of the need of ‘letting go, and letting God.’ It would have been so much easier for her to try to save herself or get revenge, but she chose to be an instrument in God’s plan. She may not understand it, but her willingness spoke to me. I loved her tenacity, her willingness and her desire to put God first - even ahead of her own life. Her example inspired me in my journey to become ‘a light undimmed’.
I also liked the reminder about redemption and that none of us is beyond God’s forgiveness and grace. We all need those reminders! I also appreciated being reminded that in God’s eyes, we are not who we were in the past, but who we are becoming.
The part that will stick with me the longest is ‘the mark.’ Do I have the mark that indicates I’m His?
I love a story that prompts me to pick up my bible. I found myself reading through the book of Jeremiah and refreshing myself about the biblical setting of Liora and Neb’s story.
This story, book one in the Yoke of Babylon series, is one I’d encourage you to read if you’re feeling discouraged or unsure of your influence.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 3, 2025
This is a truly immersive story that takes us back to Babylon’s siege, invasion and destruction of Jerusalem in 587 B.C. and reminds us that none of us is beyond the reach of God’s grace.
We all worship something; we harness ourselves to something/someone who we think will help us or offer us a way to achieve our vision. For General Nebuzzaradan, he chose to harness himself to something that would bring life, rather than take life. For too long, he’s been known as the Butcher of Babylon but when a Jewish noblewoman is pawned to him by Judah’s King Zedekiah, we see a different side of this fierce warrior.
Liora arrives in the Babylonian camp as a courier, but her light illuminates the darkest recesses of Nebuzzaradan’s heart and he realizes he doesn’t want her out of his presence. Through this brave courier, we see Neb as God sees him.
Liora’s example spoke to me of the need of ‘letting go, and letting God.’ It would have been so much easier for her to try to save herself or get revenge, but she chose to be an instrument in God’s plan. She may not understand it, but her willingness spoke to me. I loved her tenacity, her willingness and her desire to put God first - even ahead of her own life. Her example inspired me in my journey to become ‘a light undimmed’.
I also liked the reminder about redemption and that none of us is beyond God’s forgiveness and grace. We all need those reminders! I also appreciated being reminded that in God’s eyes, we are not who we were in the past, but who we are becoming.
The part that will stick with me the longest is ‘the mark.’ Do I have the mark that indicates I’m His?
I love a story that prompts me to pick up my bible. I found myself reading through the book of Jeremiah and refreshing myself about the biblical setting of Liora and Neb’s story.
This story, book one in the Yoke of Babylon series, is one I’d encourage you to read if you’re feeling discouraged or unsure of your influence.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
We all worship something; we harness ourselves to something/someone who we think will help us or offer us a way to achieve our vision. For General Nebuzzaradan, he chose to harness himself to something that would bring life, rather than take life. For too long, he’s been known as the Butcher of Babylon but when a Jewish noblewoman is pawned to him by Judah’s King Zedekiah, we see a different side of this fierce warrior.
Liora arrives in the Babylonian camp as a courier, but her light illuminates the darkest recesses of Nebuzzaradan’s heart and he realizes he doesn’t want her out of his presence. Through this brave courier, we see Neb as God sees him.
Liora’s example spoke to me of the need of ‘letting go, and letting God.’ It would have been so much easier for her to try to save herself or get revenge, but she chose to be an instrument in God’s plan. She may not understand it, but her willingness spoke to me. I loved her tenacity, her willingness and her desire to put God first - even ahead of her own life. Her example inspired me in my journey to become ‘a light undimmed’.
I also liked the reminder about redemption and that none of us is beyond God’s forgiveness and grace. We all need those reminders! I also appreciated being reminded that in God’s eyes, we are not who we were in the past, but who we are becoming.
The part that will stick with me the longest is ‘the mark.’ Do I have the mark that indicates I’m His?
I love a story that prompts me to pick up my bible. I found myself reading through the book of Jeremiah and refreshing myself about the biblical setting of Liora and Neb’s story.
This story, book one in the Yoke of Babylon series, is one I’d encourage you to read if you’re feeling discouraged or unsure of your influence.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
November 1, 2024
The faith of one, seemingly insignificant, woman gave way to helping others in their greatest time of need. From beginning to end, I felt every emotion as Liora did. This story was one I didn’t know I needed to read, and am so glad that I did. It brought the story of the destruction of Jerusalem, The Butcher, and the destruction of the temple to life. I love how April reiterates a few times that God can’t be contained in a building, I think often times even today we subconsciously forget that. I loved the very real inward struggle for both Nebu and Liora. And the end, definitely wasn’t prepared for that! This is a beautiful story of tested faith in the midst of trials and worthy of reading many times over.
*I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review, only one that was honest. The opinions I have expressed are my own and personal thoughts on this book.
*I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review, only one that was honest. The opinions I have expressed are my own and personal thoughts on this book.
November 5, 2024
Pawned to the besieging Butcher of Babylon, one Hebrew noblewoman determines to shine with Yahweh’s light while seeking to be of use to the innocents of doomed Jerusalem.
In besieged Jerusalem, a Judean noblewoman is thrust into the perilous role of courier. Sent to Babylon's commanding general, she soon discovers she is more than a messenger—she's a pawn to a wicked king and a servant to a mighty God. Most surprising yet is the curious mind of Babylon’s bloodiest general—could Judah’s Yahweh truly be the God Most High?
Faced with the impossible, Liora must be bold, speak Truth, and do so without knowing whether the Butcher of Babylon will release her in the end…or keep her as his own.
In this tale of war, deception, and betrayal, one woman emerges as a beacon, a light undimmed in the shadows of Jerusalem’s ruins.
I loved this book! April Gardner has a gift for bringing a climate and a people to life. She not only shows you but causes you to feel and smell the weather, food, emotions, etc. This shines in A Light Undimmed. April Gardner brought a besieged Jerusalem to life. I read A Light Undimmed in a day. That's how immersive it is.
I thought April Gardner did a really good job in portraying the people of the time--the paganism, superstitions, and how the people of God embraced it as well. I especially appreciated how she showed what it would be like for a pagan Babylonian to consider the true God. How his skewed perceptions would cause him through fear and superstition try to approach God on his own terms. And how very hard it must have been to shine as a light of the true God amidst paganism and fear of death. Amazingly done!
I loved that she wrote about Nebuzaraden. He is one of my favorite Bible characters to ponder on. The Bible doesn't say much about him, but certainly enough to cause me to dwell on him and think, "Hm. I wonder if he came to the true God?" I loved that April Gardner included so much of her research into her notes. It was all so interesting, and I will definitely be tucking it away to ponder on.
What I appreciated most about this book, however, was that April Gardner was able to keep the Bible and fiction apart. I sometimes struggle reading Biblical Fiction, because I never want to take a real Bible character and have this story in my mind about them that I will read into the Bible, so I appreciated that April Gardner could keep it apart in a way that I won't be reading her story into the Bible, but also in a way that causes me to consider a bit more about the historical Nebuzaraden.
Also, somehow, I didn't realize this was the first in a series!! I would like the next please! Like, now! Right now. Immediately. If possible?? I loved this whole cast of characters and can not wait to meet them again.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In besieged Jerusalem, a Judean noblewoman is thrust into the perilous role of courier. Sent to Babylon's commanding general, she soon discovers she is more than a messenger—she's a pawn to a wicked king and a servant to a mighty God. Most surprising yet is the curious mind of Babylon’s bloodiest general—could Judah’s Yahweh truly be the God Most High?
Faced with the impossible, Liora must be bold, speak Truth, and do so without knowing whether the Butcher of Babylon will release her in the end…or keep her as his own.
In this tale of war, deception, and betrayal, one woman emerges as a beacon, a light undimmed in the shadows of Jerusalem’s ruins.
I loved this book! April Gardner has a gift for bringing a climate and a people to life. She not only shows you but causes you to feel and smell the weather, food, emotions, etc. This shines in A Light Undimmed. April Gardner brought a besieged Jerusalem to life. I read A Light Undimmed in a day. That's how immersive it is.
I thought April Gardner did a really good job in portraying the people of the time--the paganism, superstitions, and how the people of God embraced it as well. I especially appreciated how she showed what it would be like for a pagan Babylonian to consider the true God. How his skewed perceptions would cause him through fear and superstition try to approach God on his own terms. And how very hard it must have been to shine as a light of the true God amidst paganism and fear of death. Amazingly done!
I loved that she wrote about Nebuzaraden. He is one of my favorite Bible characters to ponder on. The Bible doesn't say much about him, but certainly enough to cause me to dwell on him and think, "Hm. I wonder if he came to the true God?" I loved that April Gardner included so much of her research into her notes. It was all so interesting, and I will definitely be tucking it away to ponder on.
What I appreciated most about this book, however, was that April Gardner was able to keep the Bible and fiction apart. I sometimes struggle reading Biblical Fiction, because I never want to take a real Bible character and have this story in my mind about them that I will read into the Bible, so I appreciated that April Gardner could keep it apart in a way that I won't be reading her story into the Bible, but also in a way that causes me to consider a bit more about the historical Nebuzaraden.
Also, somehow, I didn't realize this was the first in a series!! I would like the next please! Like, now! Right now. Immediately. If possible?? I loved this whole cast of characters and can not wait to meet them again.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was in no way required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 26, 2024
No single word accurately captures the depth and poignancy of A Light Undimmed by April Gardner. I could think of a few: heart-gripping, page-turning, thought-provoking, pulse-shaking, but they only serve to shine a light on the different layers that come out in this masterfully written story. The well-paced narrative keeps you fully engaged in a way that makes you want to keep reading while not wanting to reach the end.
From the start, Gardner drops you alongside Liora as a companion in her demoralizing walk through an enemy encampment. Faith in her God becomes a beacon in Liora's heart that slowly pushes against the dark shadows of a brutal enemy and a royal betrayal that leaves her at the whims of a monster, the infamous Butcher of Babylon. While you want to hate the man in a manner worthy of such villains, with touching story development, Gardner opens her reader's eyes with a grace that sees the heart within the beast.
I enjoyed that 'beauty and the beast' vibe as it mingled with the difficult history of a tough time in Israel when the consequences of sin meant captivity. With trembling self-reflection, I wondered about the depth of my faith's roots if tested by a despicable, yet divine, assignment. Favorite quote: "Trust in the Lord did not mean instant loss of fear, but a moment-by-moment surrendering of it."
As one of my favorite authors, Gardner does not disappoint. This is a five-star read for me - a book that had me thinking even when I wasn’t reading it. Don’t miss A Light Undimmed. Truly an April Gardner classic. You will definitely want to add this one to your reading list. The spiritual takeaways will leave you with plenty to think about as anticipation for the next novel builds.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author but was not required to post a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
From the start, Gardner drops you alongside Liora as a companion in her demoralizing walk through an enemy encampment. Faith in her God becomes a beacon in Liora's heart that slowly pushes against the dark shadows of a brutal enemy and a royal betrayal that leaves her at the whims of a monster, the infamous Butcher of Babylon. While you want to hate the man in a manner worthy of such villains, with touching story development, Gardner opens her reader's eyes with a grace that sees the heart within the beast.
I enjoyed that 'beauty and the beast' vibe as it mingled with the difficult history of a tough time in Israel when the consequences of sin meant captivity. With trembling self-reflection, I wondered about the depth of my faith's roots if tested by a despicable, yet divine, assignment. Favorite quote: "Trust in the Lord did not mean instant loss of fear, but a moment-by-moment surrendering of it."
As one of my favorite authors, Gardner does not disappoint. This is a five-star read for me - a book that had me thinking even when I wasn’t reading it. Don’t miss A Light Undimmed. Truly an April Gardner classic. You will definitely want to add this one to your reading list. The spiritual takeaways will leave you with plenty to think about as anticipation for the next novel builds.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author but was not required to post a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 8, 2025
A LIGHT UNDIMMED: A REVIEW
I read this after finishing "A Faith Untamed", and I must say I prefer A Light Undimmed.
It's the year 587B.C., King Zedekiah is on the throne. Jerusalem is being besieged by the Babylonian forces headed by General Nebuzaradan, since Zedekiah has rescinded his fealty to Nebuchadnezzar his overlord. The Israelites are starving with no food and little water.
Liora Bat Chesed a noblewoman of the House of Ephraim is tasked by the king to take a message to the Babylonian commander. Thus far, none of the previous messengers have returned alive. Has the king sent Liora to her doom? Will the General have more mercy on a "mere" woman? What does YHWH have in store for his beloved daughter?
Full of unexpected twists and the novel takes you through the Babylonian camp, whisks you to Riblah where Nebuchadnezzar is and deposits you, breathless in Jerusalem on the day the city fell.
It's a novel of faith under the most difficult circumstances; shining one's light, however feeble, so that those who see it can experience the hope it offers.
I was given a copy to read, but this review is posted of my own free will and bears my opinions.
#ALightUndimmed #AprilGardner #BiblicalFiction #YokeofBabylonseries #TheBookishPilgrim
I read this after finishing "A Faith Untamed", and I must say I prefer A Light Undimmed.
It's the year 587B.C., King Zedekiah is on the throne. Jerusalem is being besieged by the Babylonian forces headed by General Nebuzaradan, since Zedekiah has rescinded his fealty to Nebuchadnezzar his overlord. The Israelites are starving with no food and little water.
Liora Bat Chesed a noblewoman of the House of Ephraim is tasked by the king to take a message to the Babylonian commander. Thus far, none of the previous messengers have returned alive. Has the king sent Liora to her doom? Will the General have more mercy on a "mere" woman? What does YHWH have in store for his beloved daughter?
Full of unexpected twists and the novel takes you through the Babylonian camp, whisks you to Riblah where Nebuchadnezzar is and deposits you, breathless in Jerusalem on the day the city fell.
It's a novel of faith under the most difficult circumstances; shining one's light, however feeble, so that those who see it can experience the hope it offers.
I was given a copy to read, but this review is posted of my own free will and bears my opinions.
#ALightUndimmed #AprilGardner #BiblicalFiction #YokeofBabylonseries #TheBookishPilgrim
December 11, 2024
4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Absolutely breathtaking story! Now I will be in agonyyyy until the next one in the series is out. *sobs*
The setting in this story could not have been better… Liora’s faith and presence was such a sharp contrast to the darkness that permeated the camp. Her light could be felt through the pages. The stakes were sky high from the chapter one that I couldn’t help but keep my eyes fastened to each page until I reached the completely unsatisfactory ending (book 2 must come swiftly)
And Nebuzaradan… oh my. I was so in love with him and Liora!!! Well, mostly him… But their chemistry was unmatched!
All that to say, it was a beautiful, poignant story with so many nuggets of truth woven into it. I love it when authors open up a world that I’ve never been in and bring it to life in such a captivating way. And that is precisely what April did. So, I, just like Liora, am entirely a captive.
*I received this book as an ARC and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I expressed are my own.
Absolutely breathtaking story! Now I will be in agonyyyy until the next one in the series is out. *sobs*
The setting in this story could not have been better… Liora’s faith and presence was such a sharp contrast to the darkness that permeated the camp. Her light could be felt through the pages. The stakes were sky high from the chapter one that I couldn’t help but keep my eyes fastened to each page until I reached the completely unsatisfactory ending (book 2 must come swiftly)
And Nebuzaradan… oh my. I was so in love with him and Liora!!! Well, mostly him… But their chemistry was unmatched!
All that to say, it was a beautiful, poignant story with so many nuggets of truth woven into it. I love it when authors open up a world that I’ve never been in and bring it to life in such a captivating way. And that is precisely what April did. So, I, just like Liora, am entirely a captive.
*I received this book as an ARC and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I expressed are my own.
November 29, 2024
Oh, Nebuzaradan, “the butcher of Babylon”! What can you say about him? You want to detest this man who is now Liora’s master and is also the instrument that God is going to use to bring His vengeance on His chosen people, Israel. But, throughout this book, we are shown different sides of Nebuzaradan than just the killing machine which all of his army consider him and by all. He is roughly tender to Liora, the Jewess. How angry he becomes, at himself, when he sees her and his heart starts racing! He has to find a way to interact with her as much as possible. I loved this book so much-I couldn’t believe how hardly bear to set it down! This book culminating with a great ending was another mighty work of God, by the God given talent of the author! It’s such a hard book to write and, to read, at several places…but it will hold a special place in my heart for a long time!! You really need this book in your collection! 🙏♥️💙💖♥️🙏
December 8, 2024
I read this author’s first Biblical fiction novel last year, and didn’t like it all that well. I decided I was willing to read this one, although I was unsure about it. Much to my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and, in fact, found myself so drawn into Liora’s story that every time I picked it up to read for two or three minutes, that time stretched into ten or more! It totally destroyed my self-control. Then, I got to the end and was aghast at the realization that the story was not ended. Now I have to wait to get the rest of the story.
I would never have thought of writing a story about Nebuzaradan. He turns out to be a fascinating character, though, and I can see where the author came up with the idea for his character. I appreciated this glimpse into the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I would never have thought of writing a story about Nebuzaradan. He turns out to be a fascinating character, though, and I can see where the author came up with the idea for his character. I appreciated this glimpse into the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
December 15, 2025
Truth and Faith in action
Liora has such an unusual strength of purpose as A Daughter of Abraham, that it's illuminating to see in her spirit the example of what we should be like. She's a mixture of Faith and Doubt, like all Yahweh's children, but so much stronger. I can't honestly say I'd do everything her way, because at some point I'd have caved, but NEVER to lose my faith in Yahweh (which I'm pleased that neither did she!) Read her story, and learn to use God's strength, as she did!
Liora has such an unusual strength of purpose as A Daughter of Abraham, that it's illuminating to see in her spirit the example of what we should be like. She's a mixture of Faith and Doubt, like all Yahweh's children, but so much stronger. I can't honestly say I'd do everything her way, because at some point I'd have caved, but NEVER to lose my faith in Yahweh (which I'm pleased that neither did she!) Read her story, and learn to use God's strength, as she did!
December 27, 2024
Wow , Intrigue & Bible Love Story ! What More You Want !!
Reading this book in one day was a joy ! Some don't hold me so fast ! But Gardner has history & intrigue , love story in Two Awesome Books . Bible stories can be a slow drawn but good , but I was very surprised at this Story Tellers insight ! Only The Lord Gave This Gift of Writing !! Now I must read All her books I have found a new favorite !! Next to Mesu Andrews !! Blessings
Reading this book in one day was a joy ! Some don't hold me so fast ! But Gardner has history & intrigue , love story in Two Awesome Books . Bible stories can be a slow drawn but good , but I was very surprised at this Story Tellers insight ! Only The Lord Gave This Gift of Writing !! Now I must read All her books I have found a new favorite !! Next to Mesu Andrews !! Blessings
July 9, 2025
I enjoyed this Biblical fiction by April Gardner. It is not your typical romance, although there are elements beginning to build in this, the first book in the series. I was intrigued by the depth of character development and also by her research into this era. It is not typical in that it deals with the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem under Nebuchadnezzar, using Jeremiah as the main point of reference. I enjoyed it enough that I immediately bought book two and started to read...
June 21, 2025
My first ever written review. I stumbled across this author and book, and am so glad I took a chance and ordered the Kindle edition. Wonderful story and writing, equal to that of other better-known Biblical fiction authors like Jill Eileen Smith and Tessa Afshar. I immediately bought the second book, and will be awaiting the arrival of the final installment of the trilogy next year.
December 17, 2024
In this riveting tale of war and faith, April weaves a story as rich and layered as the history it inhabits. Liora’s journey—from noblewoman to pawn, from servant to beacon of light—captivates with its tension and depth!
December 20, 2024
As always, April excels at bring a tale to life. Her characters are relatable and the redemption theme is hope inspiring. This book will bring the Scriptures to life and motivate you to seek the truth for yourself.
December 25, 2024
I was engaged in the book from the beginning. It tells story that happens during the siege and conquest of Jerusalem by Nebuzaradan. Story which is difficult to read but also encouraging and beautiful at the same time, showing the costs of following the God.
March 9, 2025
Loved it and am glad to know this story continues in book 2. I did pre-order (I never do that). The dialogue between Neb and Liora is terrific and believable. A new author for me and am pleased to follow.
June 11, 2025
Our God is the Redeemer
What repentant sinner will he not forgive? The tragic destruction of Jerusalem by the Butcher of Babylon is more than Liora can bear! Has the LORD God of Israel sent her to offer this pagan his Redemption?
What repentant sinner will he not forgive? The tragic destruction of Jerusalem by the Butcher of Babylon is more than Liora can bear! Has the LORD God of Israel sent her to offer this pagan his Redemption?
August 28, 2025
Strong writing and a story that draws you along.
Very unusual to read a novel set in the last days of Jerusalem as the Babylonians camped outside the walls.
Strong spiritual content and a heroine who seeks to honour God first.
Encouraging.
Very unusual to read a novel set in the last days of Jerusalem as the Babylonians camped outside the walls.
Strong spiritual content and a heroine who seeks to honour God first.
Encouraging.
February 23, 2026
A heartfelt read
I loved the characters in this story. This book was a gem. I’m off to the next book in this series. Thank you so much for sharing your love of our Father. I only wish my faith was as strong and true…
I loved the characters in this story. This book was a gem. I’m off to the next book in this series. Thank you so much for sharing your love of our Father. I only wish my faith was as strong and true…
April 29, 2026
Inner beauty
I have read a lot of Christian fiction. To my dismay, the main female character is always physically beautiful. In your story you highlight her bravery and determination to trust God more than her outer beauty.
I have read a lot of Christian fiction. To my dismay, the main female character is always physically beautiful. In your story you highlight her bravery and determination to trust God more than her outer beauty.
December 31, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I have read many of April Gardner's books, but this one is a different direction for her. I have already pre-ordered the next book in the series.
February 1, 2025
This was a beautiful read and did my heart good. What a beautiful soul she wrote Liora to be! Her steadfastness is so admirable. Absolutely well done, wonderful story! Can't wait to get the next one!
March 10, 2025
4.5 🌟 I preordered the sequel. I love the characters in this story and the Voice of Yahweh.
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