Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar
Series: a standalone
Publisher: Moody Publishers, 10th Anniversary Edition on October 6, 2020
REVIEW BY MAE CLAIR
Despite this being a 10th anniversary release, I was previously unfamiliar with Pearl in the Sand. To say I was mesmerized is an understatement. The story is heartfelt and moving, beautifully portraying the life-changing power of God’s love, forgiveness, and grace. Rahab, the one-time Canaanite prostitute, and Salmone, a leader of Israel, are crafted with insight and care. It’s impossible not to become caught up in their emotions.
The courage Rahab displays in concealing the Hebrew spies when they infiltrate Jericho, then later in helping the Israeli army against her own people is at times difficult to grasp. Perhaps mind-blowing is a better term. I can’t imagine what it must have been like embracing a whole new way of life—customs, people, nomadic existence–but she walks with a God who truly sees her.
“God of the Hebrews, is that You?” She croaked as the mighty weight of otherworldly peace finally lifted off. An unreasonable conviction filled her mind–the conviction that this god was true. This god was God, present to her at the moment.
“You are real! You are the God of heaven and earth. Perhaps I’m mad, but I believe it!”
Tessa Afshar, Pearl in the Sand
Then there is Salmone. From initial meeting to gradual understanding and acceptance, through the complexities of their marriage, his union with Rahab is unique. Even when he is able to see beyond her past, Rahab struggles to forgive herself, feeling unworthy of his devotion and God’s redemptive power and love.
Although this is the story of Rahab and Salmone, God’s presence is strong throughout, crafting a reminder of how the Lord should impact every waking moment of our lives.
I have always appreciated the tale of Rahab, but having it unfold like this–so immersive and vivid–drives home how much God can change a person if we only allow Him access to our hearts. When Rahab discovers the pearl, trampled underfoot in the sand, I was reduced to tears. The redemptive message of this story is one that will long resonate with my soul.
I recommend this novel to those who enjoy Christian fiction interwoven with Biblical and historical accounts.
I award Pearl in the Sand five fabulous fishes!
I purchased the Kindle version of Pearl in the Sand.
The Well Read Fish 
Thanks for the heartfelt review, Mae. I look forward to reading how Tessa Afshar brought one of my favorite Bible stories to life.
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Hi, Grant! I am so glad you checked out the review. Rahab’s story is one of my favorites too, and this book was life changing for me. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
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Great review, Mae. I read a story similar to this years ago and enjoyed it. I wish I could remember the name of the book or author. Might still be on my book shelf. Sounds like a good one.
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This was the book that rekindled my love for Christian fiction, Denise, and as such will always hold a special place in my heart. I thoroughly loved it. Thanks so much for checking out the review. And if you do discover what the title of that book was, I’d love to know!
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