A Perilous Journey Phoebe's Story

by Mary DeMuth, Guideposts

A Perilous Phoebe's Story is the 6th book in the Ordinary Women of the Bible fiction series.

Tasked with taking the Apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Rome, Phoebe embarks on a tumult-filled journey over land and sea accompanied by her closest friend and a mysterious freed slave. Already having suffered persecution for her stalwart belief in Yeshua, Phoebe must overcome deep betrayal, a violent pirate raid, and the loss of every scrap of security she’s ever had, to travel to an unknown location and deliver Paul’s greatest treatise of the faith.

Will she find the resources and the trust she needs to complete the seemingly impossible task? Or will the ever-multiplying obstacles before her strangle her resolve?

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 13, 2024

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story centers around Paul's letter to the Roman church led by Prisclla and Aquila. He entrusts 2 scrolls to her, one with almost step by step instructions on how to find them. The other is the letter, which Paul has read and reread as a scribe took his dictation. Phoebe has memorized his inflection and emphasis with some coaching from Paul.
Phoebe is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea, not far from Corinth. She was left a wealthy widow when her husband died, from the description of his symptoms, I would say he had tuberculosis (I am a retired RN). Though she would rather have Albus than the wealth, she has put the money to good use, helping the poor, widows and orphans, and leading them to Jesus.
Paul says she is the only one who can deliver the letter, and so she goes, along with Trecia, whom she rescued from the streets, and who serves her out of a loving obligation, and Joses - to whom Paul has instructed to protect the women and their precious scrolls, and who has had Joses memorize the way to Priscilla's and Aquila's household.
And so Phoebe's, Trecia's, and Joses's adventure begins, with all effort expended to keep the messenger and the message safe. Dangers test their faith, and weariness is their companion on the journey as they make every effort to complete their mission.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eye Opening Perspective

When we read in scripture about Phoebe and her relationship to Paul and the church, it doesn't really describe the harrowing experiences of women in ministry during that time period. it is interesting to note how perilous the journey would be for a woman, even a woman of means.

I truly enjoyed the added peril, danger and scoundrels to make the experience more realistic and vivid.

I also enjoyed the created backstory the author gave to Phoebe of how she became a widow and her family's rejection of Christ as a messiah, ultimately leading to their rejection of her. It makes her story and her ministry that much more beautiful picture of Faith.

[Lisa Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story of forgiveness, learning to trust, and a perilous journey. I so enjoyed reading Phoebes story. Though she traveled a dangerous and heartbreaking journey, she trusted in Christ and learned to forgive others as well.

[Mr John Callaghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful story

The story of Phoebe, entrusted with Pauls mission to deliver his letters to the church in Rome. Despite a series of disasters on her journey she finally arrived at Pricilla and Aquilas house and delivered the precious scrolls. Brilliant storytelling!

[Katie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t know if it’s the author’s way of writing, but Phoebe was very 1-sided and flat. She was also very childish in her actions. I finished the book, but it took a lot of effort to do so.

[Theresa Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Enjoyed the book. Love the part at end to talk about the apostle and all that transpired with Priscilla and Aquilla

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this series