The Queen’s Cook

About the Book

Title: The Queen’s Cook
Series: Queen Esther’s Court #1
Author: Tessa Afshar
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction, Biblical

In the heart of ancient Persia, the empire’s Jewish citizens face an ominous edict that threatens their very existence. Roxannah, the daughter of an impoverished Persian lord, is devastated by the news but feels helpless to come to the aid of her Jewish friends. Desperate to support her family, Roxannah approaches the royal physician, Adin–the man whose kind eyes haunt her–and seeks his help to find employment in Queen Esther’s kitchens.

In the opulent palace of Susa, Roxannah tries to survive the spiteful ploys of the other cooks as she ascends through the ranks. Her loyalty earns her the trust and friendship of Queen Esther, who is navigating dangerous politics with wisdom and grace. When Roxannah and Adin uncover a sinister plot against Amestris, the king’s most powerful wife and Esther’s archenemy, they find themselves tasked with the impossible job of discovering the culprit. As secrets unravel and alliances are tested, the fate of Esther’s reign hangs in the balance.

MY THOUGHTS

This was an amazing, amazing book.

The story was captivating and very inspiring. I love how Tessa Afsar writes her books. Like the others, this one points to the work and redemption that God does in the lives of those who follow Him.

Roxannah was so inspiring. I love how she thrived despite what life threw at her. She took her challenges in stride and with the help of God even when she didn’t believe in Him. Her relationship with Adin was just the sweetest. I enjoyed their reading about them.

This book reminded me of one important truth, to thrive and blossom where God has placed me. Roxannah, Adin, and Queen Esther were placed where they were for such a time as this.

About the Author

Tessa Afshar’s award-winning biblical fiction has been on Publishers Weekly, CBA, and ECPA bestseller lists and has been translated into twelve languages. Born in the Middle East, Tessa spent her teen years in England and later moved to the United States. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life. Tessa is a devoted wife, a mediocre gardener, and an enthusiastic cook of biblical recipes.

Connect with Tessa by visiting tessaafshar.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of The Queen’s Cook and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight December 4, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on December 11, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!