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Faithful Daughter of Israel
The homeless outcast known as Cursed ANNA has spent her days avoiding the reproachful glances of her fellow Jerusalemites and her nights defending against the bitter cold and her growing hunger and fear. Her deepest desire is to find acceptance among her people. For that to happen she must live one more day, and one more day after that. Desperation drives her to turn to the only means of survival for women without friends or family—harlotry. At Jerusalem’s Dung Gate in the dead of night, a scarlet-caped Roman soldier nears, and Anna quakes at having to approach the imposing, broad-shouldered man. Confronted by the foreigner, who identifies himself as the fortress commander, Anna fears she has made a terrible mistake. JULIAN OF ALEXANDRIA is counting the days until he could escape this cursed assignment. He suspects his mother, his Jewish mother, is to blame for the bad luck of being stationed in Judea. Raised thoroughly Roman, Julian wants nothing to do with the Jews. Until Anna. Anna, the spirited Jewess who means to be a harlot. Except this frightened half-dead beauty seems an unlikely seductress. Though he should flee this attraction and fulfill his promise to his father to find a Roman wife, Julian makes himself Anna’s protector. Impossible choices face this desperate Jewess and her hardened Roman commander. Will their rigid beliefs and traditions separate them, or will they follow their hearts?
255 pages, Paperback
Published January 31, 2019
261 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
About the author
Wanda Ann Thomas
18 books71 followersWanda Ann Thomas is the author of Sweet Historical Western Romances and Historical Christian Fiction. She adores heart-felt love stories, featuring honorable heroes and courageous heroines. Men and women who will brave any danger for loved ones and who struggle against overwhelming obstacles to win their happily ever after.
Wanda starts each day bright and early at her computer writing and drinking coffee. When the weather allows she and her husband average three rounds of golf a week. She confesses to being overly fond of chocolate chips cookies, winter vacations spent in sunny Florida, and her large boisterous family.
Wanda starts each day bright and early at her computer writing and drinking coffee. When the weather allows she and her husband average three rounds of golf a week. She confesses to being overly fond of chocolate chips cookies, winter vacations spent in sunny Florida, and her large boisterous family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 2, 2019
Twenty-year-old homeless and outcast Jewish girl (Anna) considers becoming a harlot to survive. Julian of Alexandria (the Commander of Fortress Antonia) assumes Anna is a harlot when he sees her in the street. But she seems so naive and innocent he begins to doubt it. Seeing how weak and exhausted she is, he temporarily gives her shelter and food. He can't stand the thought of her becoming a harlot so he decides that he will find her a husband. But it becomes difficult when he begins to have feelings for Anna.
I really enjoyed this book. It took place during the times of John the Baptist, King Herod, Salome, and was mostly set in Jerusalem and Alexandria. The romance part of the story was okay but the other aspects of the book were really interesting. The author wrote it in an easy style so it wasn't hard to read. The story drew me in and I liked the setting. An entertaining and different kind of read for me.
I really enjoyed this book. It took place during the times of John the Baptist, King Herod, Salome, and was mostly set in Jerusalem and Alexandria. The romance part of the story was okay but the other aspects of the book were really interesting. The author wrote it in an easy style so it wasn't hard to read. The story drew me in and I liked the setting. An entertaining and different kind of read for me.
February 10, 2019
Loved this story
I am very grateful for the authors who write Old Testament stories. I feel they have given me a better understanding of God and His desire for us to draw closer to Him. This story of Anna and Julian does just that. You can see God’s hand in bringing them together for His glory. Anna is looked upon by the Jewish community as being a harlot and a cursed woman. Because her family and the family that was she was promised to all died from disease. With no one left for protection Julian finds her near death from starvation. From the beginning she finds a place in his heart for her. He is a Roman soldier. She is Jewish. The two are like oil and water. Never meant to mix.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves the history of the Old Testament and a love story. Truly a lovely story.
I am very grateful for the authors who write Old Testament stories. I feel they have given me a better understanding of God and His desire for us to draw closer to Him. This story of Anna and Julian does just that. You can see God’s hand in bringing them together for His glory. Anna is looked upon by the Jewish community as being a harlot and a cursed woman. Because her family and the family that was she was promised to all died from disease. With no one left for protection Julian finds her near death from starvation. From the beginning she finds a place in his heart for her. He is a Roman soldier. She is Jewish. The two are like oil and water. Never meant to mix.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves the history of the Old Testament and a love story. Truly a lovely story.
February 25, 2019
A awesome story!
This beautiful and compelling story was filled with faith filled love about two young people from totally different backgrounds and religious beliefs. A Roman Officer and a young Jewish woman who is down on her luck forced into possible prostitution on the streets because of unfortunate circumstances, they are thrown together and a amazing story is created by the author . This dramatically different story packed with suspense coupled with heartfelt moments between the characters is a blessed and beautiful experience of reading!
This beautiful and compelling story was filled with faith filled love about two young people from totally different backgrounds and religious beliefs. A Roman Officer and a young Jewish woman who is down on her luck forced into possible prostitution on the streets because of unfortunate circumstances, they are thrown together and a amazing story is created by the author . This dramatically different story packed with suspense coupled with heartfelt moments between the characters is a blessed and beautiful experience of reading!
November 30, 2019
Terrific Book!
I have wanted this book for a while. I decided to get it before Thanksgiving. I am so glad I did. Loved the characters and their stories, thank you for the book, Ms. Thomas.
I have wanted this book for a while. I decided to get it before Thanksgiving. I am so glad I did. Loved the characters and their stories, thank you for the book, Ms. Thomas.
January 28, 2020
I enjoyed the parts of the book that gave a glimpse of Jewish lifestyle and rituals in relation to the community and temple. As a christian, I don't always realize how the ancient Jews lived and how much of their life revolved around the Law and sacrifices. It was helpful.
I wanted to love this book and in some ways I did. I liked the main premise and the character landscape. Some things in the characterization felt abrupt to me, like how characters would make a huge decision after it felt that they had been extremely opposed to it just before. There wasn't as much "soul searching" included. The physical descriptions of the main character's relationship definitely felt like the centerpiece - pretty lusty which kept the storyline somewhat shallow. I did like the cultural perspectives of the Romans and Jews and how those did not align with one another.
Overall, a lot goes right in this book, but a lot is just a bit off for me. Especially, the various typos or missed words to complete a sentence of thought.
I appreciate the author's world building and research.
I wanted to love this book and in some ways I did. I liked the main premise and the character landscape. Some things in the characterization felt abrupt to me, like how characters would make a huge decision after it felt that they had been extremely opposed to it just before. There wasn't as much "soul searching" included. The physical descriptions of the main character's relationship definitely felt like the centerpiece - pretty lusty which kept the storyline somewhat shallow. I did like the cultural perspectives of the Romans and Jews and how those did not align with one another.
Overall, a lot goes right in this book, but a lot is just a bit off for me. Especially, the various typos or missed words to complete a sentence of thought.
I appreciate the author's world building and research.
February 21, 2019
This was a brilliant story and I was utterly captivated! I appreciated that, although set in Biblical times, it read as easy as a contemporary, as far as the ease of reading and the spoken language. I even learned several new words, which is always a plus! I loved how, it's completely fiction and still has a few famous characters such as King Herod and his wife, Herodias. Much of the story wraps around John the Baptist, yet he's a side character and for the most part, we hear of just a tidbit or rumors throughout the book. But my favorite part is the deep level of God ordained romance despite the incredibly difficult differences! Wanda is a new author to me and I hope to read many more of her books soon! She writes sweet romance with compelling characters. She writes in the Wild West and in first century with a focus on the Herodians.
January 15, 2021
Faithful Daughter of Israel was a really interesting read. I read it in three sittings and found the storyline really compelling. I usually don't read many Christian Fiction stories that are set during biblical times (since I don't like it if they veer off from what the Bible says), but I liked that, in this case, through the story of the main characters we get to see the latter part of John the Baptist's ministry. I found the depiction of Anna's meeting with him believable and liked how his preaching of repentance and forgiveness of sins was portrayed.
As for the main story, I liked both Julian and Anna's characters through the story, though Anna's took me a bit more time to warm up to. While I think there were parts of the book that could have been smoothed out in a better way, overall, I liked how their feelings developed for each other, though, at first, it'd seem a relationship between the two of them would have been doomed from the start. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the places (from Herod's greatest works of architecture to trips through the desert and voyages at sea/river), since they certainly helped to transport me to the setting :).
As for content (with spoilers), one has to keep in mind that this book opens with Anna at her wit's end and thus, she's come to the decision of taking up harlotry. Hence, there's a lot of talk about the subject, both from the Jewish and Roman POV. Plus, one should keep in mind how women, and especially women who had fallen in dire circumstances, were referred to or talked about. Yes, there's also the fact that this Roman commander (Julian) decides to take Anna under his wing despite his being attracted to her, so there are bound to be glances, caresses, and even thoughts regarding their attraction towards each other. However, . As for violence, the beginnings of a harlot's stoning are shown.
Overall, I'd recommend this book for fans of the author or fans of Christian Fiction set in biblical times. However, if you're not familiar with this author's work, I think this novella would be the perfect way to try it out. ~4 stars
As for the main story, I liked both Julian and Anna's characters through the story, though Anna's took me a bit more time to warm up to. While I think there were parts of the book that could have been smoothed out in a better way, overall, I liked how their feelings developed for each other, though, at first, it'd seem a relationship between the two of them would have been doomed from the start. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the places (from Herod's greatest works of architecture to trips through the desert and voyages at sea/river), since they certainly helped to transport me to the setting :).
As for content (with spoilers), one has to keep in mind that this book opens with Anna at her wit's end and thus, she's come to the decision of taking up harlotry. Hence, there's a lot of talk about the subject, both from the Jewish and Roman POV. Plus, one should keep in mind how women, and especially women who had fallen in dire circumstances, were referred to or talked about. Yes, there's also the fact that this Roman commander (Julian) decides to take Anna under his wing despite his being attracted to her, so there are bound to be glances, caresses, and even thoughts regarding their attraction towards each other. However, . As for violence, the beginnings of a harlot's stoning are shown.
Overall, I'd recommend this book for fans of the author or fans of Christian Fiction set in biblical times. However, if you're not familiar with this author's work, I think this novella would be the perfect way to try it out. ~4 stars
August 16, 2021
Set around the beginning of Christ’s ministry, this story focuses on a young Israelite woman who is rescued from a life of harlotry by a Roman soldier. Julian clings to his Roman heritage and hides the fact that his mother is Jewish, but he’s torn between the two cultures even as he serves in the Roman army.
Cursed Anna, as she is called by the community, brings out his protective nature, and he determines to find her a proper Jewish husband. However, the Temple Guards are determined to maintain Anna’s identity as an outcast and work against Julian’s plans.
The author brings out rich historical facts about the setting and some Jewish traditions without giving too much weight to description. Among her fictional characters, she includes a few recognizable figures, such as Herod Antipas, Herodias, and Salome, and references to John the Baptist.
Cursed Anna, as she is called by the community, brings out his protective nature, and he determines to find her a proper Jewish husband. However, the Temple Guards are determined to maintain Anna’s identity as an outcast and work against Julian’s plans.
The author brings out rich historical facts about the setting and some Jewish traditions without giving too much weight to description. Among her fictional characters, she includes a few recognizable figures, such as Herod Antipas, Herodias, and Salome, and references to John the Baptist.
October 14, 2020
Always enjoy a novel where I learn something and I certainly did with this historical romance era John the Baptist with a lovely cover. A creative plot interwoven in facts surrounding the time including the beheading of John the Baptist. A young labeled and shunned Jewess girl rescued by a Roman many times turns into a contentious love story divided by differences in religion. If you enjoy historical fiction, learning about the culture of the time, this is well-worth reading.
January 16, 2021
The Roman and the Jewess: She hated Roman's, He loved her the instant he saw her.
This is a wonderful story that ends even better. But not without lots of bumps and bruises along the way. I was totally enthralled in this story almost froet m the first page. I love reading historical fiction and this book was a joy to read. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good love story set in ancient times.
This is a wonderful story that ends even better. But not without lots of bumps and bruises along the way. I was totally enthralled in this story almost froet m the first page. I love reading historical fiction and this book was a joy to read. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good love story set in ancient times.
January 20, 2021
must read
if you love history this book is a must read. it brings to life the characters of ancient times as reflects many of the characters named in the Bible. Thru the eyes of Anna the writer tells of the many conflicts between the Jews and Romans while weaving a story of love and reconciliation thru what seems impossible obstacles. Anna and Julian are beautifully portrayed and hopefully will reappear in a sequel book
if you love history this book is a must read. it brings to life the characters of ancient times as reflects many of the characters named in the Bible. Thru the eyes of Anna the writer tells of the many conflicts between the Jews and Romans while weaving a story of love and reconciliation thru what seems impossible obstacles. Anna and Julian are beautifully portrayed and hopefully will reappear in a sequel book
May 16, 2019
Sweet tale of 1st century Jews who find each other through the Roman occupation of Jerusalem.
This was a nice, quick read about a woman who had lost everything and a warrior who found everything. It also taught me a little about the Roman occupation of Jerusalem and Alexandria. I recommend it as a lite read!
This was a nice, quick read about a woman who had lost everything and a warrior who found everything. It also taught me a little about the Roman occupation of Jerusalem and Alexandria. I recommend it as a lite read!
June 3, 2019
Couldn't put it down!
I started this book and couldn't put it down. I was drawn into the story feeling as though I was there with them. At times I wanted to smack some sense into both characters. I felt as though I K d's them... Was friends with them. I am hoping there's a sequel with these two in it. You don't want their story to end.
I started this book and couldn't put it down. I was drawn into the story feeling as though I was there with them. At times I wanted to smack some sense into both characters. I felt as though I K d's them... Was friends with them. I am hoping there's a sequel with these two in it. You don't want their story to end.
August 27, 2019
I read romance. I write romance. I love romance.
I love historical romances.
Faithful Daughter of Israel is historical romance. It is set in the time of John the Baptist and Pontious Pilate, but it is not a rehash of a biblical story. It is fiction. It is also a good romance and a wonderful read.
I love historical romances.
Faithful Daughter of Israel is historical romance. It is set in the time of John the Baptist and Pontious Pilate, but it is not a rehash of a biblical story. It is fiction. It is also a good romance and a wonderful read.
October 31, 2019
Beautiful book, it's a nice love story
Anna has no familly, her neighbours call her Cursed Anna since the dung collector and his children for who she worked died.
She decide to turn to halortry. But the same day she meets Julian a Roman soldier...
Julian wants to help her and fall in love with her but Julian has a secret...
Anna has no familly, her neighbours call her Cursed Anna since the dung collector and his children for who she worked died.
She decide to turn to halortry. But the same day she meets Julian a Roman soldier...
Julian wants to help her and fall in love with her but Julian has a secret...
November 9, 2019
Wonderful Bible based story
Set in the ancient Mid-East, this is a wonderful Bible based fiction tale. The characters, Anna (who is entirely alone in Jerusalem), and Julian (the Roman soldier), are thrown together by fate. Anna has given up hope for a 'decent' Jewish life with a husband and family, and Julian is not the expectant hero.
Set in the ancient Mid-East, this is a wonderful Bible based fiction tale. The characters, Anna (who is entirely alone in Jerusalem), and Julian (the Roman soldier), are thrown together by fate. Anna has given up hope for a 'decent' Jewish life with a husband and family, and Julian is not the expectant hero.
October 13, 2020
A Book to Read
A book that will definitely hold your attention. Scenery that is so well written you can feel as though you are there. Julian is a strong character and Anna has a vulnerability that touches you. In my opinion, parts of the story could have been changed or omitted and would have made it a better read.
A book that will definitely hold your attention. Scenery that is so well written you can feel as though you are there. Julian is a strong character and Anna has a vulnerability that touches you. In my opinion, parts of the story could have been changed or omitted and would have made it a better read.
October 19, 2020
A delightful, well reserched story
Faithful Daughter of Israel is not only entertaining, it is also educational. Instantly, I was pulled into a new land and people whose beliefs and culture fascinated me. I love the way Thomas sprinkled the severity of the story with a sweet love between the most unlikely couple.
Faithful Daughter of Israel is not only entertaining, it is also educational. Instantly, I was pulled into a new land and people whose beliefs and culture fascinated me. I love the way Thomas sprinkled the severity of the story with a sweet love between the most unlikely couple.
December 5, 2020
Great book that takes place in Jerusalem during the time Jesus was here. I enjoyed it and can't wait to read another of her books. There are a number of sexual scenes that are handled very nicely. They're included as prostitution is sadly about the only choice available to widows during that time. The author lets you know what's happening without getting explicit. So it's well handled.
September 2, 2021
Absolutely loved this book. Once I had the time I couldn't put it down and grudged it when I had to. The characters are believable and you get sucked right into the story. Highly recommend this book to people who love this time period and the scriptures. Would definitely read more from this Author.
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July 29, 2019Godly People
I choose your book, because I love Israel a
and Gods chosen people. I liked the fact that an unbeliever became a Godly man. I will give you 5 stars and follow your books. My kindle isn't working too good so I hope you get this message.. laveta hill
I choose your book, because I love Israel a
and Gods chosen people. I liked the fact that an unbeliever became a Godly man. I will give you 5 stars and follow your books. My kindle isn't working too good so I hope you get this message.. laveta hill
September 29, 2019
A BEAUTIFUL LOVE 💘STORY THAT ILLUSTRATES LOYALTY TO GOD AND HIS REQUIREMENTS THAT DEMONSTRATE DEVOTION TO HIM
It took much Faith for Anne to fully believe and understand her God and His requirements for a life of full belief and joy both for her God and her adoring husband.
It took much Faith for Anne to fully believe and understand her God and His requirements for a life of full belief and joy both for her God and her adoring husband.
October 28, 2019
Page turner
Good book, not long enough. What happen to Salome and her wicked mother? It was obvious oh girl was with child , what did she have. I gave 5 stars but really too much was missing.
Good book, not long enough. What happen to Salome and her wicked mother? It was obvious oh girl was with child , what did she have. I gave 5 stars but really too much was missing.
September 7, 2023
Another great novel
Really enjoyed another biblical novel from Wanda and I have read many of them. Hope there will be a sequel telling us more about the two main characters Anna and Julian and how their lives might develop.
Penny Callaghan
Really enjoyed another biblical novel from Wanda and I have read many of them. Hope there will be a sequel telling us more about the two main characters Anna and Julian and how their lives might develop.
Penny Callaghan
February 15, 2019
I didn’t want it to end....
Oh I lived this book... couldn’t put it down... what a love story ... even Cinderella wasn’t this good!!! Looking forward to the next book!!!
Oh I lived this book... couldn’t put it down... what a love story ... even Cinderella wasn’t this good!!! Looking forward to the next book!!!
February 28, 2019
Enjoyable Book
This book was an enlightening read. The plot though simple brought a smile to my face. I enjoyed learning more about Jewish. customs.
This book was an enlightening read. The plot though simple brought a smile to my face. I enjoyed learning more about Jewish. customs.
March 23, 2019
A clean Romance with a little spice, set in biblical times. An easy read that caught my attention from chapter 1.
April 2, 2019
A Surprisingly good read. This was my first read by Ms. Thomas and I have to say it was enjoyable. A quick, interesting read.
June 1, 2019
Love conquers all
This is a story of two very different people from opposite backgrounds. The proof of the Holy Spirits power is very evident in the surprise ending!
This is a story of two very different people from opposite backgrounds. The proof of the Holy Spirits power is very evident in the surprise ending!
September 18, 2019
Loved this book
It kept my attention til the end. I love a great love story from the old testament. This was easy to read the language was in today's and not the old testament.
It kept my attention til the end. I love a great love story from the old testament. This was easy to read the language was in today's and not the old testament.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews