Kassandra‘s privileged and pampered life explodes when she meets a woman with next to nothing. When a glimpse into the lives of those less fortunate turns into a mission to help them, her father offers a act like the daughter of a politarch and marry the man he has chosen––or leave home forever.
Unimaginable loss shakes Jason‘s world to its foundation, and he struggles to keep his faith in the Jewish God. He faces losing everything generations of his family have built, and one of the city’s elite seems determined to make that happen.
A visiting Jewish preacher shakes up the synagogue⸺and then the town⸺with outrageous claims. Paulos’s teachings fascinate Kassi but contradict everything Jason believes. As pressure amps up on every side, they must decide how much they are willing to risk to follow The Way.
Carole Towriss and her husband live just north of Washington, DC. In between making tacos and telling her four children to pick up their shoes for the third time, she writes, watches chick flicks, and waits for summertime to return to the beach.
When you love Jesus with all your heart, there is a deep, unshakable longing for others to know Him, to serve, and to stand firm in faith no matter the cost. This novel captures that kind of devotion and stirs a longing to follow Him with the same unshakable resolve.
The story moves with both tenderness and tension, grounded in the rich detail of daily life in Thessalonica. Scripture threads naturally through the narrative, so vivid and true that it feels as if you’re walking the very streets and standing in the very moments recorded in its pages. Jason’s resilience after loss, Kassi’s quiet defiance against cultural expectations, and the gathering storm of opposition all unfold in a way that draws you deeper into both their hearts and their world.
The historical accuracy shines, yet even more powerful is the way the Gospel comes alive … shaping lives both humble and influential, each one transformed by faith in Jesus. Political unrest, personal sacrifice, and the clash of cultures all serve as the backdrop for a truth that settles deep in the soul … following the Way is always worth it, no matter the cost.
Carole Towriss writes with integrity, crafting God-honoring stories that hold fast to Scripture and portray biblical people without distortion. Every scene feels intentional … layered with historical detail, a seamless weave of Scripture, and dialogue that brings the characters to life. I loved every moment of it.
If you love fiction that draws you closer to Scripture, this one will leave you with a richer understanding of the past and a renewed awe for the God who still works wonders today.
I received a digital ARC from the author and Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the great writing, engaging narration, and the story’s wonderful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
This biblical fiction not only tells a story from the first century but contains much Scripture coming from the mouth of Paulos as he speaks and teaches the people in Thessalonike, both fellow Jews and Greeks. We witness the struggle among God’s Chosen People to accept that salvation is for everyone and the tension between various classes. The author gives a revealing insight into life there at that time and into the faith journeys of the various characters. She surely brought the tale to life as if you were there and made the emotions and trials very real and felt. I appreciate her efforts to stay true to God’s Word and not change the Bible story to fit a fictional account. The minor Bible characters she crafts into full-fledged people have plausible lives and actions. I recommend this novel and want to read more in her New Testament series. I received a copy from the author through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. You are Mine. “
Carole Towriss is a new-to-me author, but I was thrilled to see the way she takes a few verses in Acts 17 and weaves them into a an exciting story with lots of Scripture. With a compelling narrative replete with danger, intrigue, and Romance, plus Biblical history, so many words Paul spoke in the New Testament come alive and are shared in small doses. I especially loved the emphasis on Isaiah’s teaching, but of course the Law and Moses, which the Jews greatly supported, are also leaping off points for Paulos.
Imagine the unease of the synagogue leader, who at first is proud that Paulos is showing his synagogue honor, then discovers Paulos using the Jewish law to launch into a discussion of Jesus Christ, a heretical criminal in the Jewish mind. Trouble brews!
I loved how Towriss connects the Jewish characters of the story to the Greek portion of the story. It was interesting to see the differences in the two cultures. I enjoyed seeing a mixture of wealthy, influential people vs. those who were considered lower class or even worthless. We see the power of Roman rulers vs. those they ruled, often including their own households. Secundus is such a typical example, and makes me glad I don’t live in that world.
I loved seeing how Paulos shows the Greeks that they, too, are recipients of God’s grace and love. Many Greeks did not find sense in the capricious gods of their own country or Rome, and were ready to hear about a God who did not demand a sacrifice on a whim or have unclear expectations.
Did I mention that there is danger in this novel? Kassi faces it, Jason faces it, Paulos and his friends face it, and all the believers face it. They will have to rely on passages like the one from Isaiah at the top of the blog, or other Scripture reminders Paulos gives them: “Moses once told the Israelites, ‘Adonai will fight for you; you need only to be still.’ We do what we can, and then we stand firm in faith. Rest in the knowledge that Yahweh holds our lives in the palms of His hands, and nothing is allowed to touch us unless it is first filtered through His fingers.” This advice will definitely be tested!!
I certainly headed back into my Bible several times while reading this enthralling novel! Don’t miss it!
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
More Than Conquerors back coverExperience all the political danger, faith decisions, and Spirit’s power of Paul’s missionary journey to Thessaloniki in Macedonia (Thessalonians), while digging deeply into Jason’s life—a man mentioned only twice in the Bible. With the help of a well-formed fictional heroine, Kassi, Towriss brings the whole town of Thessaloniki to life.
The Jewish leaders who stand in vehement opposition to Paul’s teaching also live in fragile peace with the Gentile politicians. Paul’s teachings threaten to topple the crumbling foundations of both political and religious power structures force new converts—both Jew and Gentile—into life-changing decisions.
Carole’s impeccable research makes the complex cultural issues understandable and even applicable to our modern political landscape. She uses the historically correct spellings on names and cities with true-to-the-period vocabulary, which lends authenticity. Though it was a little disorienting until I got into the flow of the story, her extensive glossary, historical notes, and Author’s note proved not only her thorough research but also condensed valuable insights to better understand Acts 17, the biblical foundational for Jason and Kassi’s story. Very well done!
I heartily recommend More Than Conquerors for anyone who enjoys well-researched biblical fiction with strong female leads and intriguing cultural details. Though More Than Conquerors is the second book in the Planting Faith series, it easily stands alone. However, I’ve also read, Sold Into Freedom, Book #1 in the series, and HIGHLY recommend it as well! In fact, I’ve read most of Carole Towriss’s books, and each one has something that still sticks in my memory—years later! THAT’S good writing!
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautifully crafted, gentle read from Carole Towriss, one of my favourite authors. Set in New Testament times when the Apostle Paul visited Thessalonike, it follows the story of Jason (biblical figure) and the fictitous Kassandra, the only daughter of the chief politician - coming from a noble, very wealthy, connected and powerful family.
Towriss' writing shows her depth of research as she deftly weaves the socio-cultural norms of the day, historical and political facts throughout her novel as necessary, thus making for great world creation and an immersive experience in first century Thessalonike and the Jewish-Greek world of the novel.
Her characters are carefully constructed and develop and evolve quite naturally as the story progresses to its inevitable conclusion. She has added rich detail - fictitious of course - to the bare bones narrative of Scripture, enabling the reader to get a better glimpse into first-century life and living and the difficulties Paul faced.
The opposition of the Jews to the gospel is clearly outlined in the book of Acts, but this novel gave me a deeper appreciation and insight into how truly horrified and offended a deeply religious, tradition-bound Jew might have been over Christ's claims and even more so when salvation was boldly offered freely to the non Jew, as being from God!! No wonder they hated Paul so and attacked his ministry.
Overall, I loved this tale and can't recommend it enough. I received a copy of the novel from Celebrate Lit Tours in exchange for an honest review of the book. I'm not obligated to provide a positive review; the opinions set forth here are my own and are an outcome of the the author's excellent work.
This book was so unique and also really challenged me, but in a good way. Think back to the beginnings of Christianity as we know it. When following Jesus was new and foreign, and people were being killed over it. Would you have become a believer? What would you have sacrificed or given up for it? Your wealth, your dreams, your life, your family? It’s just a lot to think about, isn’t it?
This book talks of the teachings of Paul. Paul didn’t just set out to convert Gentiles, but rather, he set out to help the Jews see that Jesus was the Messiah. You can imagine how that went over.
There is danger in here! And romance and love! You’re going to love this one! It reads quickly, and the characters are great. They really reach out to you, and you want to understand how they are feeling and what would have made them see or feel that way. It’s a great piece of fiction that I hope you take the time to read.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
More than Conquerors (Planting Faith Series Book 2) by Carole Towriss is a work of Biblical Fiction. This book demonstrates how the early followers of Jesus Christ and then his disciples struggled with what they had always been taught and believed versus the truth about the one true way to God.
As I read this book, I could tell the author put a lot of research and time into writing this book. I found myself caught up in the stories of Kassi and Jason. Sometimes families force choices, especially on children, to do what they want and expect,
I felt like the author took me back in time, and I could feel and understand the struggles and sacrifices Kassi and Jason were called to make. From a privileged background, she finds herself forced to choose between her calling and the demands of her father. Jason, as a Jew, finds himself in danger of losing everything his family and especially his father built. But they have to decide what path to follow.
So if you enjoy Biblical fiction, check out More than Conquerors (Planting Faith Series Book 2) by Carole Towriss.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
In this story we are taken to Thessalonica where we get a glimpse of the culture that Jason and Kassandra live in. Jason is the main lead in this story; this is the same Jason that is briefly mentioned in the Bible. We don't know a lot about him, so through fiction the author has given us his story.
I found this story interesting for both characters, Jason a Jew and Kassandra a Greek. Both of them live and for the most part abide by the rules that is set before them. Mostly by family, religion, and culture. However, both have their eyes opened and a new and better path is opened before them. As they begin to trust in God more, their paths cross and their new priorities line up with one another.
This was an interesting look at a time when the apostle Paul was spreading the Gospel and the persecution that took place from all around.
I was provided a copy of this novel by the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.
What can I say? This was an amazing book to read. I’d have to say, it’s one of my favourites in Biblical Fiction this year. As one of the main characters, Kassandra, has a big heart to care for others despite the social status of the day. She risks everything including her home to pursue her calling to help those less fortunate. Jason’s story is as intriguing, as his story begins with tragic news of the sudden death of his parents. He has a huge contract of glasses to fulfill and needs help. This book showcases wonderful examples of friends and strangers helping each other as persecution can come in various ways. Apostle Paulos and team soon come to town to share the good news of Christ Jesus. And Jason and Kassandra come to know the One True God amongst many other gods who can do nothing for them. I look forward to reading more of this series. I recommend this read over a nice cup of coffee. I received this e-book for free from Celebrate Lit Tour and the opinions I express are honest and my own.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I think she did a wonderful job of combining both fictional characters and Biblical characters in an intriguing storyline that stayed true to the Biblical narrative. This book shows the struggles and victories that existed for the early believers as they stood up for their faith in a society that opposed them in many ways. I loved the way the main character, Kassandra, allowed God to lead her in ways she could never have expected. It touched my heart to read about the Gentiles’ reaction to the Gospel was presented to them by the apostle Paul.
If you enjoy the TV series, “The Chosen”, you’ll enjoy this look at life for the believers after the resurrection of Jesus. This book is part of a series. I have not read the first book, but that’s did not hinder reading this one in any way. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
"More than Conquerors" by Carole Towriss is a Biblical fiction novel that takes us back to the time of the early followers of Christ and Paul’s teachings. This story showed the struggle for the believers and the struggles that Paul endured. If you like Biblical fiction, I definitely recommend this novel. This author is a new author to me but after reading this book I have added her other books to my to be read list. This book is fiction but the story line stayed true to the Biblical account. This book is the second book in the series and as Previously stated I have not read the other books but I didn't have a problem enjoying this book even though it is the second one. The fictional characters, Jason and Kassandra are characters that this reader would love to meet and be friends with if they were.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
Biblical Fiction is a genre that I have recently started to get interested in. More than Conquerors by Carole Towriss is Book 2 in the Planting Faith Series. Carole Towriss is a new to author and I have not read the first book in this series.
WOW, such a beautiful story of growth in faith and people. Kassandra comes from a "Privilaged" family and lifestyle. She really has a mission to serve the less fortunate and her Father has other plans for her. His desire is for an arranged marriage. Kassandra has to choose following her Father's commands or Follow God's Calling. I really LOVE that the book stays with the Biblical story and adds in the Fiction characters and storyline. I am going to go back and read Book 1 in this series and I look forward to future books! I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who liked Biblical Fiction books. AMAZING BOOK!
I enjoyed reading the start to Carole Towriss' Planting Faith series and was excited to have the opportunity to read the second installment, More than Conquerors. I was far from being disappointed. I was quickly intrigued with Kassandra's story and wanted to keep reading. It was hard to put down but easy to quickly read it in a couple of evenings. I loved every single page.
I am going to give More than Conquerors a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers and fans who love to read clean Historical Fiction, particularly Biblical Fiction. I am hoping there will be more to come from the Planting Faith series by Carole Towriss.
I received a copy of Carole Towriss' More than Conquerors from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
We look back at Rome and see Women we're not really much more than a Slave. Poor or Wealthy you married Who your Father chose foreign You. Massive in the book has a mind of her own knew what she wanted & broke every law for love & to help women of poor means. Windows , Abused , Beaten & Discarded. This was her Calling she was well liked & learned to love The Lord Jesus. Jason was a good man loved his family worked hard in glass he learned to blow glass from his Father. All of them learned love Patience from the apostle Paul , You learn love -forgiveness- Redemption- Is this Story !!! It was a Wonderful Read Enjoy !!
This was a good Biblical fiction that takes us to the time of the early followers of Christ and Paul’s teachings. I liked how this story showed the struggle for the believers and how it showed them having to change their way of thinking. I loved seeing their sacrifices for what they believed to be true. I liked how the author transported us back in time and helped us feel like we were apart of things with these characters. If you like a Biblical fiction set in the early day of the church then this would be a good one to check out.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
At first, I wasn't feeling this book. It was a little slow going, and the main characters felt like teenagers (in some cases). However, once I was 20% in, I was enjoying it much better. I started to get to know the characters, and the plot really thickens. This was such a great look at what it must've looked like for early christianity being spread across the world. I liked hearing more about the Roman and Jewish culture, and how that might've affected believers of Jesus Christ. This book also looks more at how women were treated, and the obstacles they may've faced. Overall, I enjoyed my time with this book.
As much as I loved “Sold Into Freedom,” I loved “More Than Conquerors” more. It was a beautiful story with a pop in of a couple of characters we met in the first book. The heart that Kassi had for others and her faith that blossomed made her so lovable. And Jason’s story was neat to see unfold from tragedy to finding faith.
“There is always room for someone we love.” This quote spoke volumes to me. Every time Kassi opened her bakery up for another woman in need, the time people came to help Jason, etc. just beautiful.
In the days of 50 A.D. we meet Kassandra. She comes from wealth and privilege. I loved her heart that wanted to help others in need. As Kassi begins her calling her father does not approve. I think he is more worried about his status. How sad that his heart isn't in the right place. A beautiful story of blossoming in faith and reading about Biblical figures. The research for this book is impressive and gives readers a sense of traveling back in time.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Carole Towriss is a new-to-me author, and I'm glad to "meet" her. Ancient history is a subjects I haven't studied much, so I found More Than Conquerors to be interesting and intriguing. It helps that time period come alive.
It was enjoyable to see what life might have been like back than. Kassandra and Jason are fun to get to know, and watch their faith grow.
If you enjoy Biblical fiction you'll want to add this to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
This author is a wonderful Biblical fiction author! I absolutely loved who the woman Kassandra turned into being. Jason was a little hard-headed but I loved him, too! The author makes you feel as though you are there-living in the New Testament days! I love how the main characters find each other and more importantly, how they hear about Jesus from Paul and seeing what they do and how they change with this knowledge of Him! Excellent book-highly recommend it to everyone! 📕♥️
I love to read Biblical stories! They are my favorite kind of books. This author Carole Towriss is one of my favorite authors. Her characters are ingrained into your heart from the first chapter to the last. I wish I could have the words to tell you how wonderful and such a blessing you are to me. Thank you for sharing your talent with me. A must read!
Filled with intrigue, suspense, and more, this story takes the reader to times of long ago. The author writes with great details that bring the reader into the story. I enjoyed reading this one. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
Loved this skilful retelling of part of Acts. Hugely impactful lessons to be learnt and bought alive by wonderful characterisation. So atmospheric I felt I was there! More please Carole.
Beautiful historical and faith filled novel weaving characters into a wonderful story based in truth to bring ancient Greece and the beginnings of Christianity to life.
More than Conquerors blends together historical and fictional characters, focusing on Kassandra and Jason. Kassandra is torn between her desire to help others and her father’s wishes, and Jason grapples with his faith.
I often find books that start with a character list and a glossary of terms a bit daunting, as in this book. Although it’s clear that a lot of time and research went into this work, I initially found the wording and spelling of biblical places and terms a bit challenging to get used to, which slowed the pacing for me.
The story is enriched with elements of romance, danger, biblical history, and forgiveness, making it a compelling tale of redemption.
First Line: The tranquility of Kassandra’s early morning walk to the sea was shattered when a pottery jar slammed into her shoulder. Series: Planting Faith, book 2 Genre: Christian Historical Fiction Author: Carole Towriss Page Count: 364
#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.