"The Woman from Lydia" tells the tale of Euodia (aka Lydia in the book of Acts) and her life post-conversion after the visit of Paulos (Paul) to Philippi. The novel begins with a contract for a purple cloak but becomes an adevnture story as Euodia encounters the slave girl, Sabina, that Paulos set free from demons. Sabina's owner, Hector, a former Roman soldier, is determined to get her fortune-telling "gift" restored and sets off across Macedonia to find a witch that will restore the girl to her previous state. Euodia is determined to set Sabina free and embarks on her own perilious journey with two of her now freed slaves in tow. Will Euodia succeed?
This novel is unique in the Biblical Fiction world for providing a story after the story. The story of the start of the Philippian church has been well covered in a number of excellent novels. However, offering a sequel to the characters along with weaving in possible backstories as well as retelling the events of the early church is a extraordinary angle for approaching the story. The book excels in world building and transporting the reader into the lives of ordinary people trying to live out an extraordinary message.
Othere reviewers have noted that there were several plot threads that were left hanging at the end of the book. As this is but a first novel in what intends to be a series, I will suspend judgment on these issues. Such cliffhangers leave us wanting more in the next book.
Overall, the book shines through world building and characterization. It is a superb addition to the world of Biblical Fiction. I received an advanced reader copy as part of the Revell Reads blogger team in exchange for my honest opinion.
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