Petra, City In Stone by T.L. Higley

Petra, the wondrous ancient city carved from the mountains of modern Jordan, is at the height of its glory in this gripping historical novel by T. L. Higley. A young widow, Cassia, and her son, Alexander, have arrived there seeking protection with her late husband's estranged family. But when Cassia discovers the man she married was heir to the throne, the power-hungry Queen Hagiru plots to murder Alexander so that her own child will someday rule. The queen, priestess of the sun-god, Dushrat, calls on demonic powers in her quest, but Cassia is prepared for the fierce spiritual battle to save her son, joining a Roman named Julian and his community of believers in the Jewish Messiah. Together they seek a mighty movement of God far stronger than any dark heart or city made of stone.

My review:
This is the third book I have read by this author, and as with the other two, I was not disappointed. And as with the other two, she has written an historical novel set in a period and involving events that one does not normally read.

I enjoyed the historical aspect, of learning more about Petra, a city I didn't really know much about. And though this isn't a mystery/suspense novel, there was still suspense in the book.

At the heart of the story is a battle between good and evil. How the early Christians kept their faith in the face of major resistance from men and spiritual forces.

Higley does a great job with her characters. I was quickly pulled into the life of Cassia as she serves the true God, and fights to prevent evil in her own family.

A novel like this brings home the reality of what the early church went through, and what we could go through if evil continues to take over this world.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more from this author.

About the author:



T.L. Higley holds a degree in English Literature and has written three previous novels and more than fifty drama productions for church ministry. She is especially passionate about "breaking down emotional and philosophical barriers that people have put up between themselves and Christ."



Petra, City In Stone is available from Broadman and Holman Publishing.

Thanks to Broadman and Holman for the review copy.