Full review can be found here:

https://nordie.wordpress.com/2016/04/19/bookreview-land-of-silence-by-tessa-afsh...

I recieved a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

The Land of Silence is a beautiful story of one young woman's strength and courage during difficult circumstances. Elianna suffered so much guilt and shame over the death of her little brother. It's bad enough that she blamed herself for his death, but her father not only blamed her but could not find it in his heart to forgive her. She couldn't forgive herself and did everything in her power to end the betrothal to the only young man she has ever loved. She begins delving into the scriptures shortly after her father dies and they are forced to sell the family business.

She finds a loving Heavenly Father but can He find it in his heart to forgive her? Can she ever forgive herself? This is a brilliant story about "the woman with the issue of blood." Her faith was immense! This is a novel that truly strengthen's your faith no matter what you happen to be facing. ( )

She does a wonderful job of creating a back story for the unnamed women from the bible. At that time they didn't know about bee sting allergies. ( )

Tessa Afshar brought me to tears on a number of occasions with this book. She brought life to the bible account of the woman. I look forward to reading more of her books! ( )

I was looking for something a bit different for my morning walks when I came across the audiobook Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar. I had heard a lot of good things about this book and Afshar has never disappointed, so I decided to travel to Judea during the time of Christ while getting some exercise. I am very glad I did! This one provided a wonderful listening experience. If you are looking for Biblical fiction that will keep you engaged while making you think, then I highly recommend Land of Silence.

The novel is an interpretation of the life of the woman with the issue of blood who reached out to touch Jesus’ garment. Elianna’s story begins with the tragic death of her young brother. From there Elianna struggles with guilt and feelings of unworthiness. Her life is filled with more tragic events, some that are out of her control and some that are of her own choice. But regardless of the causes, the circumstances impact her life and her relationships. The novel is written in Elianna’s first person voice, giving the reader insights into the reasons for her actions. There were some times I wanted to shake her, LOL! How many times did she resist grace and choose her own limited strength? Sounds a bit like my own life. That’s what makes Elianna a character that readers can relate to.

Land of Silence is well-researched and richly detailed. The manners, customs, laws, and traditions of Judea and the Roman rulers are naturally woven throughout the novel giving the reader a glimpse into the lives of the characters. Secondary characters are well-drawn and add depth to the story. Inclusion of historical characters in the fictional framework gives the novel an authentic feel. While the novel is a fictionalized account, the what-ifs presented feel credible. In Elianna’s quest for healing, she endures a number of medical procedures that leave her worse off physically, emotionally, and financially. I found it interesting that she was willing to seek out these so-called physicians yet was reluctant to go to Jesus. It reminded me that many, including myself, will try just about anything to find relief from the trials of the world, but use God as a last resort.

I am glad I chose the audio version of Land of Silence. The narrator did a great job of capturing Elianna’s personality. I felt like I was listening to a real person’s life story. This was especially effective when Elianna finally meets Jesus. The depth of gratitude and awe brought tears to my eyes.

Land of Silence was a great listening experience. This book is a highly recommended read.

Highly Recommended.

Great for Book Clubs.

Audience: adults.

(I purchased the audiobook from Audible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )