Written by Angela Elwell Hunt
Series: The Emissaries, Book 3
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Release Date: 03.04.25
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction, Christian Ancient Fiction
5 Stars!
The Daughter of Rome by Angela Hunt is a masterpiece, a gripping exploration of faith under fire. This book is a relentless emotional ride that questions what it truly means to live and die for Christ.
Set in the perilous heart of Nero’s Rome, the novel brings to life a world of persecution, sacrifice, and devotion that echoes deeply with anyone who’s ever wondered what they would do in the face of unimaginable suffering, hardship, and persecution. Through Calandra, a woman torn between the world she knows and a group of Christians she’s only beginning to understand, we see the staggering cost of following the One true God in a world that demands loyalty to its idols. The ancient Roman backdrop is a character in its own right, its streets, temples, and smoky skies echoing the deep clash of cultures, beliefs, and souls that defines this story.
What struck me most was the authenticity of the Christian faith woven throughout the story. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s breathtaking. One particular scene lingers in my heart—when Calandra watches the Christians, including an aged rabbi, stand firm in the face of persecution. His unwavering faith and courageous bravery are an inspiration, and through her eyes, we see how the beauty of that kind of trust in God can break even the hardest heart. “I sat with the weeping believers, brokenhearted and amazed at the faithfulness of the aged rabbi… his earnestness, zeal, and bravery deeply impressed me.” These words hit me hard because they reflect the very essence of the book: faith that endures, faith that conquers.
Angela Hunt’s writing is nothing short of phenomenal. The pacing is perfectly balanced, allowing the reader to absorb the weight of each moment, while the vivid descriptions of Nero’s Rome transport you directly into the heart of the ancient world. I could almost smell the ash from the great fire, feel the tremors of fear, and hear the cries of the martyrs. Yet, amid all the heart-wrenching loss and brutal persecution, there is also hope—a hope rooted in something eternal and unshakeable.
The Christian themes here are powerful and striking. I was especially moved by the questions Calandra wrestles with: “Who is Adonai?” “Why did He protect them, and not us?” These were not just questions asked by a fictional character; they were questions that stirred my own soul, forcing me to reflect on the depth of God’s sovereignty and the eternal truth that He is the only God worthy of worship.
The stakes in The Daughter of Rome are impossibly high, and the characters are so richly drawn that I couldn’t help but feel deeply invested in their journeys. This story will challenge you, make you think, and leave you questioning: What would I do?
Ultimately, this novel is about the unfathomable courage it takes to choose Christ over all else. As the characters face danger, death, and loss, the profound message rings clear: "We believe Adonai is the only God worthy of worship, so we cannot bow before any other. To do so would be a lie." In a world that worships so many things, this book forces us to consider what—who—we will bow to.
The Daughter of Rome is a journey of faith, hope, and sacrifice that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Angela Hunt has crafted a powerful story that will take you through the fiery streets of ancient Rome and through the fiery depths of the human soul.
It’s a book that challenges, encourages, and deeply moves you. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates faith-filled historical fiction that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact on the heart.
I received a digital ARC of this book from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
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