Before the King

Joanna's Story

series: Women of the Way

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About

"Heather Kaufman is a truly fresh voice in biblical fiction."--TESSA AFSHAR, bestselling author

"A beautifully told and imagined story of secrets, faith, love, and devotion. With a compelling plot and cast of characters, Before the King is a tale not to be missed."--TOSCA LEE, New York Times bestselling author

Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love.

Years later, Joanna is forever changed when a rabbi comes preaching a new kingdom and healing the sick. As she contributes to his ministry, Joanna treads a perilous path between a court that mocks Jesus of Nazareth, disciples who view her with suspicion, and a husband who guards his own secrets. With pressure increasing on all sides, Joanna must decide where her allegiances lie and protect her relationship to the Christ, whose message is as compelling as it is dangerous.


Endorsements

"A beautifully told and imagined story of secrets, faith, love, and devotion. With a compelling plot and cast of characters, Before the King is a tale not to be missed."

Tosca Lee, New York Times bestselling author of Iscariot

"In Before the King, Heather Kaufman presents a moving tale of two sisters, one of whom has a front-row view of Jesus' ministry and crucifixion. Joanna's story is a reminder that God does use ordinary people in extraordinary ways . . . if they are willing."

Angela Hunt, New York Times bestselling author


The Author

  1. Heather Kaufman
    © Amber Green Photography

    Heather Kaufman

    Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books and devotions, praised by Kirkus Reviews for writing "a charming and well-crafted tale." She delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling. When not reading, writing, or...

    Continue reading about Heather Kaufman

Reviews

"Before the King, by Heather Kaufman, is a brilliant biblical fiction novel that immerses readers in the beginnings of Jesus' ministry."
"Wow! I'd give this book more than five stars if I could. It's extraordinary! My heart was touched on such a deep level."

Interviews & Reviews

"Before the King by Heather Kaufman paints a touching picture of a life changed by an encounter with Jesus. The author's engaging prose and multidimensional characters kept me absorbed in the story, my heart breaking and falling in love and rejoicing right along with Joanna's."

Reading Is My SuperPower


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