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Jerusalem Road #2
The Shepherd's Wife
Yeshua of Nazareth has two sisters: Damaris, married to a wealthy merchant's son, and Pheodora, married to a simple shepherd from Bethlehem. When Pheodora's husband suffers an unexpected reversal of fortune and is thrown into debtor's prison, she returns to Nazareth, where she pins her hopes on two she-goats who should give birth to spotless white kids that would be perfect for the upcoming Yom Kippur sacrifice.
In the eighteen months between the kids' birth and the opportunity to sell them and redeem her husband from prison, Pheodora must call on her wits, her family, and her God in order to provide for her daughters and survive. But when every prayer and ritual she knows is about God's care for Israel, how can she trust that God will hear and help a lowly shepherd's wife?
In the eighteen months between the kids' birth and the opportunity to sell them and redeem her husband from prison, Pheodora must call on her wits, her family, and her God in order to provide for her daughters and survive. But when every prayer and ritual she knows is about God's care for Israel, how can she trust that God will hear and help a lowly shepherd's wife?
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2020
159 people are currently reading
1111 people want to read
About the author
Angela Elwell Hunt
271 books1,965 followersChristy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly six million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 165 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.
Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.
Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.
In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.
Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.
Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.
In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
March 24, 2024
Why I chose to listen to this audiobook:
1. after recently enjoying author Angela Elwell Hunt's audiobook, Daughter of Cana, I borrowed this audiobook;
2. it's a free loan through Hoopla; and,
3. March 2024 is my "Biblical Fiction" Month!
Praises:
1. the Bible names Jesus's younger brothers, but only mentions that He had sisters (note the plural). I appreciate how this author's clever use of creative license showcases a fictional account of two sisters:
- Damaris - the eldest sister who is married to Shimon, a wealthy merchant studying to become a Pharisee. They live in Nazareth with their five young daughters; and,
- Pheodora - the MC of this story, is the younger sister who is married to a poor shepherd named Chiram. They live in Bethlehem with their four daughters until he's thrown into debtors' prison;
2. although Yeshua (Jesus) is mentioned from time to time, this story is more of a historical fiction with a strong focus on the lives of ordinary Jewish women in ancient Israel;
3. Hunt's characterization of these women had me feeling sympathetic and frustrated as we see their strengths and flaws throughout the story. The author also chose to feature James, the eldest son of Mary and Joseph, and his fraternal bond with Pheodora;
4. I learned about the complications that the Jewish people endured when it came to taxation and moneylending, the directives required of the Pharisees, and how slavery was conducted in Israel. I also learned a LOT about raising goats!
5. I liked how the story of Jesus's birth was woven into this novel, and the scenes involving Joseph of Arimathea warmed my heart; and,
6. the inclusion of maps and the Author's Note in the hardcopy were very helpful.
Niggles:
1. being quite familiar with the calving of cows, I really questioned some unnecessary actions portrayed with the birthing of goats; and,
2. although Arimathea was frequently mentioned in this story, I was stymied as to why this city was not included on the enclosed map.
Overall Thoughts:
This story runs concurrently with Daughter of Cana, but each could be read alone.
I quite enjoy this author's writing style and will continue reading the next two books in this series. I also realized that she wrote the picture book titled The Tale of Three Trees which is a beautiful portrayal of Jesus's life suitable for all ages.
The Shepherd's Wife is a poignant story about forgiveness. I highly recommend it for fans of historical fiction.
1. after recently enjoying author Angela Elwell Hunt's audiobook, Daughter of Cana, I borrowed this audiobook;
2. it's a free loan through Hoopla; and,
3. March 2024 is my "Biblical Fiction" Month!
Praises:
1. the Bible names Jesus's younger brothers, but only mentions that He had sisters (note the plural). I appreciate how this author's clever use of creative license showcases a fictional account of two sisters:
- Damaris - the eldest sister who is married to Shimon, a wealthy merchant studying to become a Pharisee. They live in Nazareth with their five young daughters; and,
- Pheodora - the MC of this story, is the younger sister who is married to a poor shepherd named Chiram. They live in Bethlehem with their four daughters until he's thrown into debtors' prison;
2. although Yeshua (Jesus) is mentioned from time to time, this story is more of a historical fiction with a strong focus on the lives of ordinary Jewish women in ancient Israel;
3. Hunt's characterization of these women had me feeling sympathetic and frustrated as we see their strengths and flaws throughout the story. The author also chose to feature James, the eldest son of Mary and Joseph, and his fraternal bond with Pheodora;
4. I learned about the complications that the Jewish people endured when it came to taxation and moneylending, the directives required of the Pharisees, and how slavery was conducted in Israel. I also learned a LOT about raising goats!
5. I liked how the story of Jesus's birth was woven into this novel, and the scenes involving Joseph of Arimathea warmed my heart; and,
6. the inclusion of maps and the Author's Note in the hardcopy were very helpful.
Niggles:
1. being quite familiar with the calving of cows, I really questioned some unnecessary actions portrayed with the birthing of goats; and,
2. although Arimathea was frequently mentioned in this story, I was stymied as to why this city was not included on the enclosed map.
Overall Thoughts:
This story runs concurrently with Daughter of Cana, but each could be read alone.
I quite enjoy this author's writing style and will continue reading the next two books in this series. I also realized that she wrote the picture book titled The Tale of Three Trees which is a beautiful portrayal of Jesus's life suitable for all ages.
The Shepherd's Wife is a poignant story about forgiveness. I highly recommend it for fans of historical fiction.
November 15, 2022
This was a really interesting look at two Jewish women during the 1st century, who both led very different lives. The story follows a fictional account of Jesus' sisters, one who married a wealthy merchant and the other who married a shepherd, and shows how they might have felt about the stories of Jesus' ministry on earth, His death, and His resurrection. While I wouldn't say the plot of this book is particularly riveting, the history lover in me really enjoyed seeing a "close-up" look at the lives of women in this point in history and what it may have been like for them on a day-to-day basis.
I really appreciated how Hunt refrained from adding too much creative liberty to Jesus' early life before He began His ministry; we only get glimpses here and there from Pheodora as she recalls moments between her and her older brother as she was growing up. I also really liked at the end when one of Jesus' brothers denies calling Jesus their brother, saying that He will forever be the Savior to him. There are some other moments in this book I enjoyed too; the familial relationships between Pheodora and her brothers, Pheodora's journey to faith... there are others but I'll leave it there for now. :)
I definitely look forward to reading the next books in this series!
I really appreciated how Hunt refrained from adding too much creative liberty to Jesus' early life before He began His ministry; we only get glimpses here and there from Pheodora as she recalls moments between her and her older brother as she was growing up. I also really liked at the end when one of Jesus' brothers denies calling Jesus their brother, saying that He will forever be the Savior to him. There are some other moments in this book I enjoyed too; the familial relationships between Pheodora and her brothers, Pheodora's journey to faith... there are others but I'll leave it there for now. :)
I definitely look forward to reading the next books in this series!
July 28, 2025
Engaging story set during the lifetime of Jesus and told from the perspective of his two younger sisters: Damaris and Pheodora.
Damaris is the wife of a wealthy and ambitious merchant. She looks down on the life of her younger sister who is merely the wife of a shepherd.
Learned quite a bit about what life would have been like during the time period.
Nice job by the narrator.
Damaris is the wife of a wealthy and ambitious merchant. She looks down on the life of her younger sister who is merely the wife of a shepherd.
Learned quite a bit about what life would have been like during the time period.
Nice job by the narrator.
November 30, 2020
What was the debt I owed. I saw my anger, my jealousy, my petty sibling rivalry. I saw every unholy attitude, every moment of irritation, every time I believed God did not care, did not see me, did not answer my prayers...Who had been indifferent? Not God but me. I had never bothered to reach behind the ritual prayers; I never savored the Scriptures or probed the treasures contained with those inspired words. I had been a spoiled child, overstuffed with knowledge of God and yet refusing to practice a single iota of the principles I had been privileged to receive.
I have enjoyed The Jerusalem Road series tremendously. A series based on the siblings of Jesus. Can you imagine being a sister or brother of the one who was appointed to save the world without sin? How we believe the worst in others instead of the best. This account is the sisters of Christ. The bible indicates that Jesus had sisters though the number was not specified. Not much is mentioned about the sisters of Jesus so my favorite author of Historical biblical fiction was able to take some liberties that were conclusive of that time in Israel.
Pheodora is the wife of a shepherd. Her life is simple with four daughters. Damaris is married to an upcoming Pharisee. She and her husband have great ambition. She worries about what others think and feels the path that she and her husband are taking will secure their daughters future.
Pheodora's family is hit with tragedy when her husband is imprison The prose goes into fascinating detail about the taxation, borrowing money, and the use of slavery. Jesus uses these very details to share the good news of the gospel. However, faith and reality is never what we can fully understand until we understand who Jesus is. Pheodora goes to sister for help only to be refused.
There is so much to learn about faith between the two sisters. You will see yourself in each one if you are honest. Don't let the culture of the times blind you to your own need. We are not much different and seeing Jesus for who he is will settle what troubles our heart! Highly recommend.
A Special thank you to Bethany House and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
I have enjoyed The Jerusalem Road series tremendously. A series based on the siblings of Jesus. Can you imagine being a sister or brother of the one who was appointed to save the world without sin? How we believe the worst in others instead of the best. This account is the sisters of Christ. The bible indicates that Jesus had sisters though the number was not specified. Not much is mentioned about the sisters of Jesus so my favorite author of Historical biblical fiction was able to take some liberties that were conclusive of that time in Israel.
Pheodora is the wife of a shepherd. Her life is simple with four daughters. Damaris is married to an upcoming Pharisee. She and her husband have great ambition. She worries about what others think and feels the path that she and her husband are taking will secure their daughters future.
Pheodora's family is hit with tragedy when her husband is imprison The prose goes into fascinating detail about the taxation, borrowing money, and the use of slavery. Jesus uses these very details to share the good news of the gospel. However, faith and reality is never what we can fully understand until we understand who Jesus is. Pheodora goes to sister for help only to be refused.
There is so much to learn about faith between the two sisters. You will see yourself in each one if you are honest. Don't let the culture of the times blind you to your own need. We are not much different and seeing Jesus for who he is will settle what troubles our heart! Highly recommend.
A Special thank you to Bethany House and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
January 2, 2021
In the Bible, Jesus is said to have at least two sisters, neither of which are named. In The Shepherd’s Wife, author Angela Hunt gives these women names, families, and lives. Pheodora lives in Bethlehem with her shepherd husband, and Damaris is married to a wealthy merchant’s son in Nazareth. While Damaris’s husband takes steps toward becoming a well-respected Pharisee, Pheodora’s husband, Chiram, is thrown in debtor’s prison. It is up to Pheodora to follow through on Chiram’s plan to breed and raise two pure white goat kids for the Yom Kippur sacrifice, which is their only hope to pay Chiram’s debt.
I enjoyed the first book in this series, but absolutely loved this one. By the last third or so, I had a hard time putting it down. All of the brothers and sisters of Jesus (called by his Hebrew name Yeshua in the story) are involved, and I appreciated seeing the family dynamics as they interacted with each other, worked together, and even talked about what their eldest brother was up to. Pheodora, whom the plot revolves around, was determined, loyal, and hard-working, but also had plenty of flaws. The book is probably more character-driven than plot-driven, which is really my cup of tea.
The book is written from the sisters’ alternating perspectives, with Pheodora’s being the one shown most often. I wasn’t sure what the point of showing Damaris’s POV was at first, but it really did add to the story. Especially at a point somewhere in the middle when the suspense ramped up because of something we only knew happened due to seeing Damaris’s home life.
It started to get really difficult to read as the injustice against Chiram was more fully revealed, and though I assumed all would be made right by the end of the book, it was all just too real. And in real life, things usually aren’t made right, so I wasn’t sure how I’d feel by the end. However, the last quarter of the book brought such surprises, emotions, and lessons learned, that I was not thinking about whether or not the incredible injustice was made right.
I have a difficult time giving books 5 stars unless I can see it being a book I’ll re-read at least once in the future. This is a book I definitely will read again someday, at least once. I highly recommend it to fans of Biblical fiction, and I’m really excited about what the author has planned for the next book in this series!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for providing me a copy of this book to review.
I enjoyed the first book in this series, but absolutely loved this one. By the last third or so, I had a hard time putting it down. All of the brothers and sisters of Jesus (called by his Hebrew name Yeshua in the story) are involved, and I appreciated seeing the family dynamics as they interacted with each other, worked together, and even talked about what their eldest brother was up to. Pheodora, whom the plot revolves around, was determined, loyal, and hard-working, but also had plenty of flaws. The book is probably more character-driven than plot-driven, which is really my cup of tea.
The book is written from the sisters’ alternating perspectives, with Pheodora’s being the one shown most often. I wasn’t sure what the point of showing Damaris’s POV was at first, but it really did add to the story. Especially at a point somewhere in the middle when the suspense ramped up because of something we only knew happened due to seeing Damaris’s home life.
It started to get really difficult to read as the injustice against Chiram was more fully revealed, and though I assumed all would be made right by the end of the book, it was all just too real. And in real life, things usually aren’t made right, so I wasn’t sure how I’d feel by the end. However, the last quarter of the book brought such surprises, emotions, and lessons learned, that I was not thinking about whether or not the incredible injustice was made right.
I have a difficult time giving books 5 stars unless I can see it being a book I’ll re-read at least once in the future. This is a book I definitely will read again someday, at least once. I highly recommend it to fans of Biblical fiction, and I’m really excited about what the author has planned for the next book in this series!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for providing me a copy of this book to review.
July 22, 2021
This was a story told by two of Jesus's sisters: (Damaris) a Pharisee's wife, the other (Pheodora) a shepherd's wife.
The contrast between those two lifestyles was a great read. Pharisees saw many commoners (such as shepherds) as a lower class, unclean and unholy, so they couldn’t speak to them or visit even their own relatives. They were proud and haughty. One such Pharisee arranged for Pheodora's husband to be placed in debtors prison for life for not showing enough respect when he happened upon him. How he thought of this as a Godly thing to do was beyond me. But this is why Jesus called them white washed tombs.
Life for these two sisters was strained and couldn’t be more different!
I was disappointed that more about Jesus (Yeshua) wasn’t told…
All in all it was interesting and a book I didn’t really want to put down.
The contrast between those two lifestyles was a great read. Pharisees saw many commoners (such as shepherds) as a lower class, unclean and unholy, so they couldn’t speak to them or visit even their own relatives. They were proud and haughty. One such Pharisee arranged for Pheodora's husband to be placed in debtors prison for life for not showing enough respect when he happened upon him. How he thought of this as a Godly thing to do was beyond me. But this is why Jesus called them white washed tombs.
Life for these two sisters was strained and couldn’t be more different!
I was disappointed that more about Jesus (Yeshua) wasn’t told…
All in all it was interesting and a book I didn’t really want to put down.
May 10, 2021
The Bible tells us that Jesus had brothers and sisters. Although it names the brothers, the sister's name are unknown. Hunt creates a sister for Jesus named Pheodora. When her husband is thrown into prison by the Romans for a debt, life becomes an unknown quantity for Pheodora and her 4 daughters.
Pheodora's strength and commitment to Chiram were inspirational as she never gives up in her battle to raise the money to gain his release. Watching her grow in her understanding of her brother's ministry and how it affected and changed her life was so interesting. The family relationship between Pheodora and her other brothers and how they supported her through each and every step she made to work towards Chiram's freedom was a wonderful example of strong family dynamics.
Well written story based on an excellent Biblical foundation. I also appreciated Hunt's notes in the afterward that explained her choices as well as what was fictional and what was Biblically based.
Pheodora's strength and commitment to Chiram were inspirational as she never gives up in her battle to raise the money to gain his release. Watching her grow in her understanding of her brother's ministry and how it affected and changed her life was so interesting. The family relationship between Pheodora and her other brothers and how they supported her through each and every step she made to work towards Chiram's freedom was a wonderful example of strong family dynamics.
Well written story based on an excellent Biblical foundation. I also appreciated Hunt's notes in the afterward that explained her choices as well as what was fictional and what was Biblically based.
December 10, 2020
This book was, in my opinion, even better than Daughter of Cana (which I also really enjoyed). Hunt has a way of making you care so much about the characters that the fact they are siblings of Jesus isn’t the only pull.
This book really delved deep into the Pharisee culture, and it was fascinating, particularly from the perspective of a Pharisee’s wife. Everything Jesus said in the Bible to the Pharisees became even more significant and made so much sense as I was reading this book.
Somehow, Hunt manages to move things at a realistic pace without bogging me down: I experience the everyday struggles of the characters in what almost feels like real time, and yet I never want to stop reading. She always keeps things interesting.
I can’t wait for the third book!
I received a free copy of this book. I wrote the review voluntarily.
This book really delved deep into the Pharisee culture, and it was fascinating, particularly from the perspective of a Pharisee’s wife. Everything Jesus said in the Bible to the Pharisees became even more significant and made so much sense as I was reading this book.
Somehow, Hunt manages to move things at a realistic pace without bogging me down: I experience the everyday struggles of the characters in what almost feels like real time, and yet I never want to stop reading. She always keeps things interesting.
I can’t wait for the third book!
I received a free copy of this book. I wrote the review voluntarily.
August 20, 2020
Another great biblical historical novel by Angela Hunt. This is book 2 in the Jerusalem Road series, but can be read as a stand-alone. These first 2 novels actually take place along the same timeline - that of the ministry of Christ. While book 1 was from the perspectives of Jude (Jesus's brother) and Tasmin (Thomas's sister), this one was from the perspective of Jesus's 2 sisters. While His sisters are not named in Scripture, there is mention of "sisters", so we know He had at least 2. Ms. Hunt has taken this in hand and named His 2 sisters Damaris and Pheodora. Though they were raised in the same household, these 2 sisters are very different from one another. Pheodora (the younger) has married a shepherd and lives in Bethlehem. Damaris has married a wealthy merchant who aspires to becoming a Pharisee. Because of their husbands' professions and stations in life, the 2 sisters live very different lifestyles. When Pheodora's husband is sent to a debtor's prison, and Damaris's husband refuses to bail him out, the fireworks start.
As one who prefers plot-driven novels (even in biblical fiction, I look for the Bible stories to play out), this one moved a bit slower for me as it is clearly more character driven. Having read the first book and being familiar with the Scriptures, it was interesting to see the same timeline from the point of views in Nazareth. I enjoyed learning more about the culture of the time and place and speculating a bit about Jesus's earthly family. I appreciated the moment that Pheodora came to believe and how things worked out for her after that point. And the theme of forgiveness was strong throughout. Learning more about how the Pharisees functioned also made me better understand Jesus's teachings against them. Anything that helps me better understand the Scriptures is a worthwhile read! Though I would have enjoyed a bit more "action", this was an overall very enjoyable read. I would recommend to fans of Biblical historical fiction, especially those who yearn to know more about the time of Christ.
Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
As one who prefers plot-driven novels (even in biblical fiction, I look for the Bible stories to play out), this one moved a bit slower for me as it is clearly more character driven. Having read the first book and being familiar with the Scriptures, it was interesting to see the same timeline from the point of views in Nazareth. I enjoyed learning more about the culture of the time and place and speculating a bit about Jesus's earthly family. I appreciated the moment that Pheodora came to believe and how things worked out for her after that point. And the theme of forgiveness was strong throughout. Learning more about how the Pharisees functioned also made me better understand Jesus's teachings against them. Anything that helps me better understand the Scriptures is a worthwhile read! Though I would have enjoyed a bit more "action", this was an overall very enjoyable read. I would recommend to fans of Biblical historical fiction, especially those who yearn to know more about the time of Christ.
Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
August 30, 2020
The first book in the Jerusalem Road series was about Jesus’ brother Jude and the twin sister of Jesus’ disciple Thomas. Both want their brothers to return home so they set out together to persuade them. This book concerns Jesus’ two sisters, Damaris who lives in Nazareth with her husband who is the son of a wealthy merchant and aspires to become a Pharisee. Pheodora is married to a lowly Shepherd and lives in Bethlehem but comes to Nazareth to stay with her brothers when her husband is thrown in prison by an unscrupulous tax collector. This story runs concurrent with the first story and tells the story of Jesus’ family during this time. Rumor is that the next story may be about Mary, the mother of Jesus, but we will have to wait and see. There are 3 other brothers as well.
I love all of Angela Hunt’s stories but this series is so wonderful because it gives you a feel of what was going on during Jesus’ ministry and before and after the crucifixion. She does a lot of research and really fleshes out the Bible account and helps give a feel for the way of life at that time, Jewish traditions, cultural mores and the lay of the land.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I love all of Angela Hunt’s stories but this series is so wonderful because it gives you a feel of what was going on during Jesus’ ministry and before and after the crucifixion. She does a lot of research and really fleshes out the Bible account and helps give a feel for the way of life at that time, Jewish traditions, cultural mores and the lay of the land.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 18, 2020
What an incredible story! I was enthralled from the first page and could hardly put this book down. The research Angela Hunt put into writing this flawless book is exemplary. She tells the story of Phaedora, one of Jesus' sisters, and how she works to free her husband from prison. Several parts of the story gave me chills, and I especially loved the Biblical accuracy and the Truth about Jesus. An important part of the story was after Jesus was Crucified and Resurrected, the goats were no longer necessary as a means of redemption. Only Jesus' Sacrifice.
January 3, 2021
I’m pretty sure I begin every review of Biblical fiction with this phrase: Biblical fiction is hard to write. If you stray too far from what’s known of the biblical story, readers will shout at you. If you contain yourself to only the biblical story then there’s nothing original about what you’re doing. The best biblical fiction blends a firm grasp of the history and culture of the biblical setting to provide a likely, yet still fictionalized, context for biblical narrative that lies tangential to the actual biblical story. And that is what Angela Hunt does unfailingly.
The Shepherd’s Wife is the second of the Jerusalem’s Road series and follows the fictional story of the sisters of Jesus. We know that Jesus had siblings and we know that he had more than one sister. We know little else, and that leaves Hunt space to work up a story that is tangential to Scripture, touching it, overlapping with it, sharing space with it.
One sister, Damaris, is married to a wealthy Pharisee intent on moving up the social ladder. The other, Pheodora, is married to Chiram, a shepherd from Bethlehem—one with a familial connection to some other shepherds from Bethlehem, although that part of the story is never fully told. When Chiram is thrown into debtor’s prison, Pheodora must make her way through a very patriarchal world, hinging all her hopes on care and eventual sale of their two goats and their foals.
Hunt weaves through the complicated layers of the first-century ancient Near East social system with a depth that creates a good story but enough “modern” elements that the reader still feels an air of familiarity. The heart of the conflict stems around the relationship of Pheodora and Damaris. Pheodora had hoped that Damaris’s husband would be able to pay the debt, but Damaris’s husband feels that he can’t because it will cause relational issues with the debt collector, who is an important figure to his social status. Hunt captures the complexity of the patron/client relationship well without forcing readers into a lesson in history or sociology.
The Shepherd’s Wife runs adjacent to the storyline of Jesus. He’s their crazy brother, out there preaching and teaching and the sisters aren’t quite sure what to make of it. Damaris is more cautious and reserved. Her relationship to Jesus might make things difficult for her Pharisee husband. Pheodora is often just too busy to think of her brother or make much of his ministry. There are overlaps and connections and let’s just say that it builds to a pretty important and impactful payoff.
The Shepherd’s Wife is thoughtful, well-written, and respectful to both Scripture and its culture. Hunt writes with the mind of a scholar and the grace of an artist, drawing readers into a familiar-yet-unfamiliar world. The result is educational, entertaining, and will leave you wanting more. (And if the third volume is going where I think…I can’t wait for what’s in store.)
The Shepherd’s Wife is the second of the Jerusalem’s Road series and follows the fictional story of the sisters of Jesus. We know that Jesus had siblings and we know that he had more than one sister. We know little else, and that leaves Hunt space to work up a story that is tangential to Scripture, touching it, overlapping with it, sharing space with it.
One sister, Damaris, is married to a wealthy Pharisee intent on moving up the social ladder. The other, Pheodora, is married to Chiram, a shepherd from Bethlehem—one with a familial connection to some other shepherds from Bethlehem, although that part of the story is never fully told. When Chiram is thrown into debtor’s prison, Pheodora must make her way through a very patriarchal world, hinging all her hopes on care and eventual sale of their two goats and their foals.
Hunt weaves through the complicated layers of the first-century ancient Near East social system with a depth that creates a good story but enough “modern” elements that the reader still feels an air of familiarity. The heart of the conflict stems around the relationship of Pheodora and Damaris. Pheodora had hoped that Damaris’s husband would be able to pay the debt, but Damaris’s husband feels that he can’t because it will cause relational issues with the debt collector, who is an important figure to his social status. Hunt captures the complexity of the patron/client relationship well without forcing readers into a lesson in history or sociology.
The Shepherd’s Wife runs adjacent to the storyline of Jesus. He’s their crazy brother, out there preaching and teaching and the sisters aren’t quite sure what to make of it. Damaris is more cautious and reserved. Her relationship to Jesus might make things difficult for her Pharisee husband. Pheodora is often just too busy to think of her brother or make much of his ministry. There are overlaps and connections and let’s just say that it builds to a pretty important and impactful payoff.
The Shepherd’s Wife is thoughtful, well-written, and respectful to both Scripture and its culture. Hunt writes with the mind of a scholar and the grace of an artist, drawing readers into a familiar-yet-unfamiliar world. The result is educational, entertaining, and will leave you wanting more. (And if the third volume is going where I think…I can’t wait for what’s in store.)
December 21, 2020
The Shepherd's Wife by Angela Hunt is the second book in the Jerusalem Road series. I feel like I got a peek behind the curtain into Jesus' family.
The main character in this book is Jesus' sister Pheodora. Married to a shepherd named Chiram and living in Bethlehem, her world is upended when Chiram is thrown into prison for being unable to pay a toll tax. Her only hope to get him out of prison is to ask her rich sister Damaris and her husband Shimon for money. But Shimon is about to be elevated in status as a member of the Pharisees. Helping his brother-in-law is not as simple as it may appear.
So Pheodora pins her hopes on a pair of white goats that Chiram bred and would sell for Yom Kippur. But she needs the help of her brothers, so she travels home to Nazareth, and while there, she learns about Jesus and his followers. She doesn't know what to think about her older brother, but she fears for his life as he becomes bolder in denouncing the Pharisees.
I learned a great many things in this book. From how to care for goats to the ridiculous rules of the Pharisees, which they believed made them holy. Hunt has done her research, and I feel I have a better understanding now of why Jesus called out the Pharisees so much.
While I do enjoy good research, all the details about the goats made the story drag somewhat. At times, I had to force myself to continue reading. I am glad I did because the ending made me cry and helped me to imagine what it was like for Jesus' family when they finally realized his identity.
This is a story that will move you to tears and have you asking the question - what debt do I owe to Christ? I highly recommend it.
The main character in this book is Jesus' sister Pheodora. Married to a shepherd named Chiram and living in Bethlehem, her world is upended when Chiram is thrown into prison for being unable to pay a toll tax. Her only hope to get him out of prison is to ask her rich sister Damaris and her husband Shimon for money. But Shimon is about to be elevated in status as a member of the Pharisees. Helping his brother-in-law is not as simple as it may appear.
So Pheodora pins her hopes on a pair of white goats that Chiram bred and would sell for Yom Kippur. But she needs the help of her brothers, so she travels home to Nazareth, and while there, she learns about Jesus and his followers. She doesn't know what to think about her older brother, but she fears for his life as he becomes bolder in denouncing the Pharisees.
I learned a great many things in this book. From how to care for goats to the ridiculous rules of the Pharisees, which they believed made them holy. Hunt has done her research, and I feel I have a better understanding now of why Jesus called out the Pharisees so much.
While I do enjoy good research, all the details about the goats made the story drag somewhat. At times, I had to force myself to continue reading. I am glad I did because the ending made me cry and helped me to imagine what it was like for Jesus' family when they finally realized his identity.
This is a story that will move you to tears and have you asking the question - what debt do I owe to Christ? I highly recommend it.
September 23, 2022
LOVED:
- The family moments with all the brothers being brothers and Pheodora being a sister :,)
- Pheodora <3 Her love for her husband even when everyone else would try to dishonor his reputation, her resourcefulness to take care for her family, and the lengths she would go to for the love of her family.
- The stark contrast between Pheodora and Damaris. One sister for righteousness and family and one sister for fame and honor.
LIKED:
- Pheodora's perseverance in taking care of her animals. The scenes with goats were so visual and such a learning moment, for the characters and for me lol
- Pheodora's daughters were so sweet! They reminded me of a family of 4 young girls I know <3
- The ending! Reconciliation, forgiveness, and belief!
MEH:
- I do not believe in adding to the words of Jesus, so I don't appreciate biblical fiction novels that create dialogue for Jesus that was not his to begin with.
- The family moments with all the brothers being brothers and Pheodora being a sister :,)
- Pheodora <3 Her love for her husband even when everyone else would try to dishonor his reputation, her resourcefulness to take care for her family, and the lengths she would go to for the love of her family.
- The stark contrast between Pheodora and Damaris. One sister for righteousness and family and one sister for fame and honor.
LIKED:
- Pheodora's perseverance in taking care of her animals. The scenes with goats were so visual and such a learning moment, for the characters and for me lol
- Pheodora's daughters were so sweet! They reminded me of a family of 4 young girls I know <3
- The ending! Reconciliation, forgiveness, and belief!
MEH:
- I do not believe in adding to the words of Jesus, so I don't appreciate biblical fiction novels that create dialogue for Jesus that was not his to begin with.
October 11, 2020
Beautiful. That is the best way to describe this book. It’s a beautiful story of redemption as it explores the lives of Jesus’s two sisters. What I love best about this book is the historical perspective on every day life we are subtly given. The story of the shepherds means so much more to me now. While reading the first book in the series will give you a better understanding of the story, it also can stand alone.
December 29, 2022
Really enjoyed reading this! I'll provide a written review soon.
December 11, 2020
The world of Biblical fiction is a world I can never get tired of.
This story was so captivating and wonderfully written. I finished it in one sitting. An amazing story of love, redemption and second chances. I enjoyed the characters how they brought the story to life. The myriad of emotions I felt as I read it was exhilaratingand exciting. The story was very touching and alive to me.
This is not one to miss at all!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
This story was so captivating and wonderfully written. I finished it in one sitting. An amazing story of love, redemption and second chances. I enjoyed the characters how they brought the story to life. The myriad of emotions I felt as I read it was exhilaratingand exciting. The story was very touching and alive to me.
This is not one to miss at all!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
October 27, 2020
Yeshua of Nazareth has two sisters: Damaris, married to a wealthy merchant's son, and Pheodora, married to a simple shepherd from Bethlehem. When Pheodora's husband is unexpectedly thrown into debtor's prison, she returns to Nazareth, where she pins her hopes and family's future on two she-goats who should give birth to spotless white kids for a Yom Kippur sacrifice. The next 18 months prove challenging, though, as Pheodora raises her daughters, returns to her childhood home, struggles to relate to her sister, and questions God's love for her, a lowly shepherd's wife.
The story flowed fairly well, and the writing is descriptive. I liked the information about shepherds and the detailed look at daily life in Nazareth and the surrounding areas. The information about feasts was also enlightening. These aspects of the book kept me reading. I never connected with Pheodora emotionally, though, and felt like she was quite whiny. I probably wouldn't read more books in this series.
The story flowed fairly well, and the writing is descriptive. I liked the information about shepherds and the detailed look at daily life in Nazareth and the surrounding areas. The information about feasts was also enlightening. These aspects of the book kept me reading. I never connected with Pheodora emotionally, though, and felt like she was quite whiny. I probably wouldn't read more books in this series.
August 18, 2020
Pheodora is one of the sisters of Yeshua. He is preaching to the people about the coming messiah. Meanwhile her husband has been arrested and thrown in prison. He has told her of his plan to raise two white unblemished baby goats. That hopefully they will bring enough money in to pay for his release from prison. Pheodora has a lot to learn and she is extremely busy. She has four children of her own.. with her husband in prison the responsibility of raising the children falls on her and now there isn't any money coming in. She is blessed with a family that will help with her and her children's basic needs, but she still has to earn money somehow to be able to pay for her husband's release.
A story of faith, preserverance and courage.
A story of faith, preserverance and courage.
September 3, 2020
The Shepherd's Wife
by Angela Hunt
Bethany House
You Like Them You Are Auto-Approved
Bethany House Publishers
Christian
Pub Date 06 Oct 2020 | Archive Date 31 Oct 2020
Angela Hunt does a great job on her books and actually allows you to feel the emotions of the characters.
Thanks to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC. I really enjoyed this book.
4 star
by Angela Hunt
Bethany House
You Like Them You Are Auto-Approved
Bethany House Publishers
Christian
Pub Date 06 Oct 2020 | Archive Date 31 Oct 2020
Angela Hunt does a great job on her books and actually allows you to feel the emotions of the characters.
Thanks to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC. I really enjoyed this book.
4 star
November 2, 2020
The Shepherd's Wife by Angela Hunt is a biblical fiction novel about two women who could have been Jesus'/Yeshua's sisters.
Pheodora, Yeshua's sister, married a poor shepherd, but she doesn't regret it as Damaris, her older, wealthier sister, thinks she should. But when her husband lands in prison for a debt he can't pay, it is up to Pheodora to raise the funds to pay off his debt as well as keep herself and her daughters clothed. And it doesn't help that Damaris won't assist and her oldest brother is gallivanting around the country preaching.
I truly enjoyed the Shepherd's Wife. The first book in the series, Daughter of Cana, focuses on two characters as they hear story after story about Jesus/Yeshua, His teachings, and His miracles. This book was very different. Yeshua's sister Pheodora is the main character with their sister Damaris as a second POV character. And while they hear stories of Yeshua and have to contemplate whether or not to believe, the novel is mainly about their daily life as Pheodora desperately tries to pay back her husband's loan and Damaris begins learning what is truly right when faced with the laws of the Pharisees.
The parts that talked about the Pharisees was very interesting to me. Apparently they were an organized group, where you have to swear loyalty, pass a bunch of tests, wear certain clothes, only purchase from specific vendors, and more. Who knew? The Bible speaks a lot about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees (which was definitely mentioned here), but it doesn't go into their hierarchy and rules. I found it fascinating.
I really enjoyed getting to know the two women, learning more about their time period and culture, and watching them struggle and learn to know God more. Of course, we don't actually know how many sisters Jesus had or what their names or their lives were like; we only know that He had sisters, plural. But I enjoyed it, as I have enjoyed all of Angela Hunt's novels so far, and I recommend this book to fans of biblical fiction.
I received a complementary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are entirely my own, and I was not required to give a positive review.
Pheodora, Yeshua's sister, married a poor shepherd, but she doesn't regret it as Damaris, her older, wealthier sister, thinks she should. But when her husband lands in prison for a debt he can't pay, it is up to Pheodora to raise the funds to pay off his debt as well as keep herself and her daughters clothed. And it doesn't help that Damaris won't assist and her oldest brother is gallivanting around the country preaching.
I truly enjoyed the Shepherd's Wife. The first book in the series, Daughter of Cana, focuses on two characters as they hear story after story about Jesus/Yeshua, His teachings, and His miracles. This book was very different. Yeshua's sister Pheodora is the main character with their sister Damaris as a second POV character. And while they hear stories of Yeshua and have to contemplate whether or not to believe, the novel is mainly about their daily life as Pheodora desperately tries to pay back her husband's loan and Damaris begins learning what is truly right when faced with the laws of the Pharisees.
The parts that talked about the Pharisees was very interesting to me. Apparently they were an organized group, where you have to swear loyalty, pass a bunch of tests, wear certain clothes, only purchase from specific vendors, and more. Who knew? The Bible speaks a lot about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees (which was definitely mentioned here), but it doesn't go into their hierarchy and rules. I found it fascinating.
I really enjoyed getting to know the two women, learning more about their time period and culture, and watching them struggle and learn to know God more. Of course, we don't actually know how many sisters Jesus had or what their names or their lives were like; we only know that He had sisters, plural. But I enjoyed it, as I have enjoyed all of Angela Hunt's novels so far, and I recommend this book to fans of biblical fiction.
I received a complementary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are entirely my own, and I was not required to give a positive review.
October 26, 2020
In The Shepherd’s Wife (Jerusalem Road—Book 2), Angela Hunt gives such convincing look into life in Nazareth, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem that you can almost taste the dust.
The Jerusalem Road series focuses on Yeshua’s (Hebrew for Jesus) family. What is so unique about this book is the dynamic of the two sisters. Pheodora and Damaris. Damaris married a wealthy merchant with aspirations of joining an elite order of the Pharisees. Pheodora married a simple shepherd who only had eyes for his wife, children, and flock, and also who loved the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Pheodora’s husband is unfairly thrown into debtor’s prison and Damaris’ wealthy husband won’t help because there is more going on than a simple shepherd’s debt.
Left alone with four children and a seemingly impossible plan involving goats, Pheodora moves back home with her other brothers. Yeshua’s siblings are concerned with the news about their brother. Pheodora misses her mother and wishes she and her older brother were there to help.
The imprisonment, the two goats, and Yeshua’s ministry all play a role in what is to come.
It took a little while to get into the story, but once it grabbed me, it didn’t let go until the final pages. Exploring those half-siblings Yeshua left behind really brings us a picture of His humanity. Not only was He true God, but also true Man. What of the younger sisters who looked up to their brother? The brother who settle disputes, helped their father, perhaps listened to their secrets?
It’s a worthy exploration, and Hunt has done a beautiful job.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Biblical history.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
The Jerusalem Road series focuses on Yeshua’s (Hebrew for Jesus) family. What is so unique about this book is the dynamic of the two sisters. Pheodora and Damaris. Damaris married a wealthy merchant with aspirations of joining an elite order of the Pharisees. Pheodora married a simple shepherd who only had eyes for his wife, children, and flock, and also who loved the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Pheodora’s husband is unfairly thrown into debtor’s prison and Damaris’ wealthy husband won’t help because there is more going on than a simple shepherd’s debt.
Left alone with four children and a seemingly impossible plan involving goats, Pheodora moves back home with her other brothers. Yeshua’s siblings are concerned with the news about their brother. Pheodora misses her mother and wishes she and her older brother were there to help.
The imprisonment, the two goats, and Yeshua’s ministry all play a role in what is to come.
It took a little while to get into the story, but once it grabbed me, it didn’t let go until the final pages. Exploring those half-siblings Yeshua left behind really brings us a picture of His humanity. Not only was He true God, but also true Man. What of the younger sisters who looked up to their brother? The brother who settle disputes, helped their father, perhaps listened to their secrets?
It’s a worthy exploration, and Hunt has done a beautiful job.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Biblical history.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
October 28, 2020
Angela Hunt has written several of my favorite books, so I was glad to be chosen to read a complimentary preview copy of this book through NetGalley.. This is the second book in the Jerusalem Road series. I have not read the first book, but I didn't sense that I had missed something as I read this one. The title character is Pheodora, who is married to a poor shepherd, but really, that is not the main relationship developed in the story. It is also a story of sisters, of neighbors, and most of all, a story of how Pheodora and her brothers became believers and followers of their oldest brother, Yeshua of Nazareth after his crucifixion and resurrection.
I enjoyed learning about life and customs for Jewish people in the first century. The main plot was interesting, but seemed to stray in places. I think the thing that keeps this from being a wonderful book for me is that it didn't relate to my life in a particular way, and it didn't have that "can't put it down" feel to me. I will plan to go back and read the previous book and the one that will follow.
I enjoyed learning about life and customs for Jewish people in the first century. The main plot was interesting, but seemed to stray in places. I think the thing that keeps this from being a wonderful book for me is that it didn't relate to my life in a particular way, and it didn't have that "can't put it down" feel to me. I will plan to go back and read the previous book and the one that will follow.
January 6, 2021
While this book ultimately proved thought provoking it was hard to get into and a little choppy. Some of it may be that I am tired of the style of books having various chapters from different points of view.
I liked the setting and characters in this book: the look at what life was like for two of Jesus's sisters. Their personal struggles with jealousy of their mothers continual attention to their brother and their disbelief that their brother could be anyone special. The sisters led very different lives, one as a shepherd and one as a Pharisees wife. Looking at those drastically different roles in terms of the time period was very educational.
Pheadora selling herself into slavery to redeem her husband made sense in the story. And then instantly she was rescued from this. I felt this could have been dealt with in more than one page because it seemed just too easy and there was no discussion of this major event.
So overall definitely thought provoking, but a little uneven in pace.
I liked the setting and characters in this book: the look at what life was like for two of Jesus's sisters. Their personal struggles with jealousy of their mothers continual attention to their brother and their disbelief that their brother could be anyone special. The sisters led very different lives, one as a shepherd and one as a Pharisees wife. Looking at those drastically different roles in terms of the time period was very educational.
Pheadora selling herself into slavery to redeem her husband made sense in the story. And then instantly she was rescued from this. I felt this could have been dealt with in more than one page because it seemed just too easy and there was no discussion of this major event.
So overall definitely thought provoking, but a little uneven in pace.
October 5, 2022
I’m slowly working through this series, and when I came to this book, I knew it was probably one I would enjoy. Mom highly recommended it after she read it, and several historical events included in the book that she mentioned after reading this story especially piqued my interest. What I didn’t expect, when I started reading, was the mystery element and perspective on Pharisees that I got here—that caught me off guard, in a very good way. Hunt does an amazing job at bringing this time to life, and I feel like I know a lot more about Ancient Israel and the way things may have worked back then after reading this book. The characters were all relatable and their plights gripped my heart. The writing style wasn’t the best I’ve ever seen, but the plot itself was interesting enough that that didn’t really affect me. Overall, a good read, and I’m looking forward to finishing the series!
October 29, 2020
I have never read a book by Angela Hunt that I did not savor, and The Shepard’s Wife is no exception. The second installment of the Jerusalem Road series, this book provides insights into the daily life of people during the time of Jesus’ life. A fictional account of Jesus’ sisters, Pheodora, the main point of view character, and her sister Damaris who have married into two very different circumstances. Pheodora is a humble Shepard’s wife who finds herself in a position of trying to pay his way out of debtor’s prison. An inside look at the way of life for goat farmers is offered. All the descriptions are well researched and provide tremendous insights. Forgiveness is ultimately the theme being explored, but you will experience the full gamut of emotions while reading this book. I thoroughly enjoy the insights into everyday life for these historical characters and loved being transported to their day in and day out activities. I highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.
October 2, 2022
I enjoyed the first book in this series, but this one - just WOW! I am so thankful that I am in the middle of studying Hebrews, learning how Jesus is the once-for-all sacrifice and the mediator of a new covenant. It made the lessons in this story jump out to me all the more.
This series does such a good job in putting us right in the story and imagining the difficulties in coming to see your brother as the promised Messiah. The goats being raised for sacrifice were so central to the story, and by the end Phoedora has come to realize that the entire sacrificial system is no longer needed because of Jesus.
There was so much depth to the characters, their relationships, and the struggles in those relationships. I highly recommend this series!
This series does such a good job in putting us right in the story and imagining the difficulties in coming to see your brother as the promised Messiah. The goats being raised for sacrifice were so central to the story, and by the end Phoedora has come to realize that the entire sacrificial system is no longer needed because of Jesus.
There was so much depth to the characters, their relationships, and the struggles in those relationships. I highly recommend this series!
October 28, 2020
I never really think what life would have been like for Jesus’ brothers and sisters. In The Shepherd’s Wife, Book 2 in The Jerusalem Road Series, Author Angela Hunt has done her research well and helps the reader understand and feel what Jesus’ siblings may have experienced. In this historical Biblical fiction, you will discover a story of hope, inspiration, and determination. One sister, Damaris, married well, the other sister, Pheodora, married a lowly shepherd. The sisters’ daily struggles differ greatly as does their faith in God. I found this to be an eye-opening storyline. I look forward to reading other books in this series.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. The opinions are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. The opinions are my own.
October 27, 2020
Angela Hunt uses the wonderful writer's tool of "What if ..." In The Shepherd's Wife (Jerusalem Road, #2). WHAT IF Jesus had two sisters? WHAT IF one of the sisters valued her husband's ambitions more than her sister's family? Hunt uses her doctorate in Biblical Studies to place us right in the middle of where Jesus walked ... letting us see the villages, smell the odors, and actually get into the mind of a Pharisee. More importantly, she shows us how Yeshua of Nazareth would help mitigate this family drama, just as He does for us today.
November 13, 2020
Bringing the Bible to life
Once again, Angela Hunt has created fiction that reads like a biography. Her attention to historical and cultural details allow the reader to be immersed in Biblical history, helping us see how those around Jesus could have felt during His ministry. She made me want to go and read the Biblical story and mine the nuggets that support her story. Can't wait for the next book!
Once again, Angela Hunt has created fiction that reads like a biography. Her attention to historical and cultural details allow the reader to be immersed in Biblical history, helping us see how those around Jesus could have felt during His ministry. She made me want to go and read the Biblical story and mine the nuggets that support her story. Can't wait for the next book!
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