The Woman from Lydia (The Emissaries)
In 31 CE, Euodia is a widowed business owner living in the city of Philippi after leaving her tragic past behind in Lydia. Yet she finds new hope after coming under the benign influence of the apostle Paulos. She frees her former slaves, who become her staff and business partners in the lucrative production of precious purple dye. Also residing in Philippi are retired Roman legionnaire Hector and his longtime comrade Lucius, both looking to turn their retirement pay into a stake to become important men in the city. One of their young slaves, Sabina, is on the verge of making them rich, as she has an apparent supernatural ability to foresee the future. But by chance, she encounters Paulos who casts out the evil spirit possessing her. Shortly after, Sabina falls in with Euodia, where she is made part of the family. Soon, Hector snatches her away, vowing to travel anywhere to find a necromancer witch to restore the young girl’s “gift.” Meanwhile, Euodia and her friends are out to rescue her and bring Sabina home.
This is a deeply intriguing and entertaining story based on the woman Lydia who is mentioned in scriptures. The best novels of this genre bring biblical times to vibrant life, and this book certainly doesn’t disappoint. Euodia, Sabina, and ironically, the brutal Hector are unforgettable characters who captivate the reader. It is a fast and interesting read, even including the technical details of creating purple dye. Filled with suspense, tragedy, action and a surprise ending, the novel is ultimately highly inspirational. Definitely recommended.
