This enjoyable and rather quick (for the book length) read follows Adira, a Jewish girl over about a decade as she and her family travel to Jerusalem with Nehemiah (who is her uncle) to rebuild the city walls. It focuses primarily on her thoughts and feelings as she experiences the trip, settling into a new home and routine, and then the various aspects of her life. Along the way she questions who is the stronger and better god, Yahweh or Ahura Mazda, what she wants in life, as well as life circumstances in general. As with real life, Adira's life has many twists and turns, filled with events that don't make sense right now but fall into place later on. The primary characters were well developed and seemed like real people you would meet in daily life. It would have been nice to know more about some of the lesser characters but I can understand them not being as completely developed based on both their place in the story and the length of the book. I could identify with Adira and her family. Would recommend to those who enjoy ancient historical stories and those who enjoy fiction based on Biblical accounts. ( )

This well researched and well written story takes place in the time of Nehemiah and is about Adira, a young teen (13 if I remember correctly) who was sold into slavery. She explores her feelings about the God of her forefathers and Ahura Mazda. This book is about faith, growing spiritually, mentally and physically and dealing with the difficulties and hardships of her situation.

Adira is a charming girl that was a pleasure to follow through her journey. Although I feel the targeted audience is young adults, all ages will enjoy and learn from this story. One nice surprise was the inclusion of Queen Esther! I'll have to dig more into this, but it is very possible she was around at this time. Something I didn't know!

This is a nice historical fiction story that will transport you back in time - where you will learn about the traditions, etc. A true treasure to read and enjoy!!!

This book was provided by the author through the ER program for an honest review. ( )

This is an excellent book! I really enjoyed being taken back to Nehemiah’s (& his family’s time in Jerusalem. Adira doesn’t know at first if she believes in Yahweh; she’s been surrounded by false gods. She loves her abba’s Father) retelling of Israel’s history. After she’s kidnapped & sold into slavery, through her various trials she begins to understand that Yahweh is real & starts praying to Him. She also praises Him in spite of her situation & sometimes because He’s looking after her through godly people she meets. Eventually she’s found & makes it home to Jerusalem. It’s interesting watching her grow in faith throughout the book. This was hard to put down; I really enjoyed it! And, yes, I would like to read Miriam’s & Michael’s story. ( )

A fascinating book, based on a fictionalized character related to Nehemiah in the Bible. The story was accurate to the time and to the setting, and realistically could have happened. Well written - I didn't want to put it down. I hope the author continues this story line by tracing some of the other characters.

This is a fictional Christian story about a young girl who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. She is at first uncertain about whether is actually a God who cares for her because of her circumstances. She is sold several times and eventually is freed and returns to her home in Babylon. She learns the meaning of true love, faith, and trust in God. During her trials and journeys, she also finds that true freedom comes through her faith in God and by letting Him guide her life instead of doing things her own way.