Jewel of the Nile

By: Tessa Afshar

Narrated by: Lynette Freeman

Length: 12 hrs and 49 mins

Publisher's summary

Whispered secrets about her parents’ past take on new urgency for Chariline as she pays one last visit to the land of her forefathers, the ancient kingdom of Cush.

Raised as an orphan by her aunt, Chariline has only been told a few pieces of her parents’ tragic love story. Her beautiful dark skin is proof that her father was Cushite, but she knows nothing else. While visiting her grandfather before his retirement as the Roman official in the queen’s court, Chariline overhears that her father is still alive, and discovering his identity becomes her obsession. Both her grandfather and the queen have reasons for keeping this secret, however, and forbid her quest. So when her only clues lead to Rome, Chariline sneaks on the ship of a merchant trusted by friends.

Theo is shocked to discover a stowaway on board his vessel and determines to be rid of her as soon as possible. But drawn in by Chariline’s story, he feels honor-bound to see her safely to shore, especially when it appears someone may be willing to kill for the truth she seeks.

In this transformative tale of historical fiction, best-selling author Tessa Afshar brings to life the kingdom of Cush and the Roman Empire, introducing listeners to a fascinating world filled with gripping adventure, touching romance, and a host of lovable characters - including some they may recognize from the biblical book of Acts.

©2021 Tessa Afshar (P)2021 Recorded Books

Narration is unacceptable

I love Tessa Afshar’s books but the narrator was so irritating and squeaky with most of the women that it totally ruined the story. I wish I had bought the book instead of the audio!

Good story, rough narration for female voices

Enjoyed the story pretty well. Not Afshar's very best writing, but still good! The narration almost ruined it for me, though. It was very difficult to push through and finish. And I'm someone who really loves to give people the benefit of the doubt and REALLY looks hard for the good in situations that aren't my favorite. The narrator's actual voice is extremely pleasant, but (with the exception of the queen's voice, which was very well done) all the female characters sounded like winy children. Those voices were so high pitched, that it was quite uncomfortable and aaalmost painful to listen to a good deal of the time. The main character's voice was one of these high squeaky ones, which made it hard to make it through the book since there was so much of it. I'm glad I listened to it once, but probably won't listen again. 😬

Jewel of the Nile

A lovely story, great characters and locations. Perfect narrator for this story. Light romance, suspense and faith. One of my favorite authors in this genre. Looking forward to more by this author and narrator.

Story was GREAT voice actor not so much.

I loved this story! However, the voice actor could use a little help. If you can handle funny voices and high pitched sqeaks, I highly recommend this book. If you that would annoy you then maybe get this one in print.

The abbot is Worth the Pain of Enduring the Narrator!

How sad for Tessa Afshar that the impact of her extensive research and lovely writing was diminished by this ridiculous cartoonish narration. How does this happen? Does no one listen to the book before it is released to the public? I love these stories that are built around the time of Paul when the Church was growing and spreading throughout the world. Imagining the lives of those who helped established the Christian faith is inspiring. If only the narrator has not made me feel I was watching a Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoon!

Terrible Narration

I am most of the way through this book, my first by this author. I think the book is well written and researched, though some of the romantic scenes are a bit over the top. The narrator is terrible. I keep trying to listen and turning it off because the voices for all female characters and children are so high pitched and squawky. There was a point where the narration describes a character with a pleasant, husky voice and the narrator immediately squawks out her words. Awful.

Voice

I struggled with Caroline's voice. Lost some of the story in feeling annoyed at her tone.

Wonderful Story

Tessa Afshar once again writes a wonderful story of God’s faithful love and our need to humble ourselves and seek His guidance. God’s plans are always for our good and He delights to bless us. I did struggle with the voice the narrator used for Caroline but the beauty of the story won out.

Jewel of the Nile

Voices of characters were poorly performed. Women sounded like small whiny girls. The main narrative was good.

Weaves biblical,history and imagination seemlessly

Once again, I am in awe of Tessa’s ability to weave historical depth and breadth and bring delightful characters to life. Having the privilege of owning all her previous books and knowing the back story of the recurring characters. I love how Tessa continues to weave these characters through to new levels and bring further exciting details that make you fall in love with them all over again. Jewel of the Nile’s story is both inspirational, action-driven and takes time to teach you about the heart and soul of each of “its unique characters” for you to see how grace, mercy, and true friendship can last through life storms. Thank you, Tessa, for another inspiring book. My one disappointment, as a long-time listener and Tessa supporter, was the use of this particular narrator. It did not do justice to this well-written story. Though as a “narrator only,” this person would have been fine, trying to master the different characters and voices, sadly missed the mark and detracted from this remarkable book by Tessa. I hope that those that choose the audio version will be able to “hear” past this inconvenience and see Tessa’s outstanding work still shine through...