4th Place: Isle of Shadows (Colossus of Rhodes)
Isle of Shadows
This was the first book I read in this series, coming off of my enjoyment of the Sahara Aldridge Time Travel series.
I did not know what THIS series would be about, simply thinking it would be about the Seven Wonders, which is a lifetime favorite subject of mine, the Ancient World always being in my life–even today where I live.
This story follows Tessa, who lives under the Shadow of Colossus of Rhodes. She lives a life of false luxury, as a mistress of a rich and despicable man. And yet, she is educated and valued for her wise understanding of society and politics.
As a foray into the ancient world, and on the tale end of the non-religious Sahara Aldridge series, I was not expecting to meet a Jewish man. I especially was surprised when this Jewish man became central to the story.
Her accidental “rescue” from one trouble sends her on an adventure to uncover a conspiracy all the while covering up her own dark secrets.
Then there is a mysterious stranger who enters her world.
What I loved about this story was the faithfulness of the Jewish population of Rhodes, BC. And how these Jews reflected an awareness of the need to share the One God with those who would hear.
It turns out, this is a prime assumption in the series, which is a very hopeful premise. But do we know if believers in Yahweh shared their faith with anyone outside of their families? 🤷♀️ That’s what makes this a bit speculative–in a very evangelistically flavored way.
