Daud and Hana are settling in to life in America. As Arab Christians who grew up in Israel but were forced to leave after an incident in Jerusalem, they have the language skills and Middle East contacts to help in a range of situations, and Daud is sent to Egypt to extract a Ukrainian scientist who is looking to sell his knowledge to the government there. He arrives only just in time to save the man's life - thus putting himself in the crosshairs of the people who had attempted the assassination. Meanwhile, Hana is getting involved in the search for a long-lost collection of archaeological treasures, a search that takes the couple to Jerusalem, to face more danger. Feeling a draw to Jerusalem, despite the danger, Daud and Hana are forced to decide whether to live in fear or in faith, and the extent to which they will seek God's will in their lives.

This story is well written and organised, with themes of home and belonging - but it didn't really grab me, though I find it hard to say why. I think I found it hard to engage with the characters, perhaps more my fault than the author's. I was also (perhaps unreasonably) somewhat put off by the presentation of Hana's relationship with God - it didn't feel like it fitted in quite with Biblical examples, and made me uncomfortable at times (for example, when singing a private song made up on the spot, she repeats a phrase over and over until she "feels a release in her spirit to continue"; sounds a bit too much like 'vain repetition' to me, and also making it all about feelings - which I'm not sure is healthy in any sort of relationship). Again, this probably wouldn't bother others, but I mention it just in case. There are also mentions of a previous book - I hadn't realised that this was part of a series, and at times felt a bit tantalised by the hints thrown out, but it didn't negatively impact my understanding of this book. However, if you're going to read them both, do so in order to avoid spoilers. All in all, I can see that others will probably really enjoy this book, but I found it not quite my cup of tea, and I doubt that I'll read more by the author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

While this is Book 2 in a series, don't be put off if you haven't yet read the first book.
This one began a little slow for me, but once I got going, I hated each time that I had to put it down to cook dinner, etc.
Hana and her husband, Daud are Israeli citizen living in the United States where Hana works for a law firm in Atlanta. Daud's work has put him in danger and it is not safe for them to return to Israel, although Daud feels the pull to the homeland. Then, Hana makes a discovery that causes her to want to buy a house and set up a more permanent residence in Atlanta. But, can she convince Daud without causing marital problems?
Meanwhile, Daud travels overseas on a job assignment and a friend shows him a house that Daud would very much like to purchase. But, is it safe for his family to live in Jerusalem? An attempt on his life while there convinces him that his life is still in danger.
It was interesting to read about the Middle East. Also, touching was Hana's prayer life and how she would wake in the middle of the night to read and pray.
Another hit by Robert Whitlow. I've never been disappointed by one of his books and was so happy to see a new one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

In the book Promised Land, author Robert Whitlow continues the story of Hana Abboud and Daud Hasan. Now married and living in America, Daud is struggling to stay safe from his past. While Hana is happy in America, her lawyer friend Jakob Brodsky has an intriguing case that keeps pulling her and Daud back to the Middle East. But are they safe returning?
This is a great continuation to the story, showing how life and family can be wonderful but also complicated. I would highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Like every Robert Whitlow book I have ever read, I did not want this book to end. Readers cannot help but get deeply involved in the lives of Hana Abboud Hasan and her husband, Daub, Christian Arabs living in Atlanta, Georgia. Hana and Daub married following the harrowing events told in Book One of Whitlow's Chosen People series. (I won't include any spoilers for those who haven't had the pleasure of reading it yet.) Daub has moved his security business to live in the United States where Hana is an attorney. After briefly returning to the Middle East as a contractor with the CIA, trouble follows him both home and abroad, impacting those for whom he cares. This action packed, tension-filled novel will follow readers wherever they go as well, but the only trouble involved will be chores left undone and sleepless nights. Throughout the story readers will be reminded that we are not guaranteed tomorrow and that our safety lies in God's hands.

I received a complimentary copy of Promised Land. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Newlyweds Hana and Doud are adjusting to married life in Atlanta. She has her job at a law firm, friends, and dog. He has his security consulting job that takes him all over the world and into more dangerous situations than he lets on to Hana.

When her friend Jakob asks for her help in recovering stolen artifacts for a client, it gives Hana and Doud the opportunity to partner on a project. It also gives Doud the opportunity to travel to Jerusalem, where he falls in love with a house. At the same time Hana finds her dream home in Atlanta.

As the two work through their first real conflict, they learn about the meaning of home and compromise, as their lives are endangered by an unknown enemy.

Hana and Doud are very likable characters, and the story has just the right amount of suspense and drama, with a little dash of HGTV thrown in. #PromisedLand #NetGalley

Rahal Abaza sat motionless in front of the panoramic view of the Persian Gulf.“ - Opening line of “Promised Land” by Robert Whitlow

This is my first experience with a Robert Whitlow novel and Promised Land is a fascinating journey! It is the second in a series but I didn’t feel I was missing anything in starting with this one. Crossing back and forth between the Middle East and America, the story follows lawyer Hana and her husband Daud, a highly trained agent as they work to unravel the mystery surrounding them.

Hana sets out to determine the authenticity and ownership of a historical artefact bringing up an interesting debate around these significant objects which have been taken in war from their home countries and original owners.

Daud is given a mission to protect a doctor whilst transporting him into protective custody. In the process, he is identified by the terrorists coming after him and his family. It sets off a chain reaction which is explored for the rest of the book. During this adventure, Robert highlights key elements of the lifestyle of the Middle East and it’s culture which I found fascinating.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book, it’s not fast-paced but intriguing and complex. For the animal lover, the lovely dog in the story, Adam, is fine for the whole book…with terrorists on the loose, I worried the entire time! It’s a four out of five on the enJOYment scale, if you enjoy a legal drama, this is one for you!

This was an enjoyable read and I learned much about the history of Israel. The romance was more of a backstory in my opinion.
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Excellent book. Robert Whitlow opens readers eyes to conflict and modern day terminology regarding the Middle East.
For fans of the Jason Bourne thrillers, this is a clean, close version.

Recently I finished reading Robert Whitlow's book The Promised Land. This was most exciting as I finished the book just prior to visiting Israel myself. Before reading this book, I read The Chosen People which is the first book in the series. Reading it first is really important to understanding The Promised Land as it introduces Hana and Daud and many of the other characters. The Promised Land also picks up where the first book left off as any good sequel should do.

As a legal thriller, The Promised Land jumps right in with Daud, an Arab Christian who works in security and intelligence, on-site in Israel working on a project involving Middle Eastern espionage. The conclusion of this project puts him right in the cross-hairs a nefarious business man. Hana, a lawyer of Arab Christian descent working in America, is called to consult on a case involving a recently found archaeological artifact. In the story, the artifact is a fictional queen's head companion to the actual sculpted king's head which is on display at the Israel Museum.(It was quite exciting to actually see this real-life artifact in person.) While Hana works on this project and other legal items, Daud is back in the States building his new personal business. Given their unique background and experiences, Hana is asked to participate in a panel discussion about Israel and Palestine and Daud is asked to provide security for this event. In addition, as fairly recently married individuals the predictable "baby makes three" comes into play as well. In addition, a family who played a major role in the first book continues to be a part of their lives. These storylines continue throughout the book and require both Hana and Daud to travel to Israel several times before the story concludes.

While I really enjoyed this book as well as the first in the series, I was disturbed by the view that all Muslims are bad that comes across in the book. The "Muslim terrorist businessman" is an important part of the story, but I would have liked to have seen additional Muslim characters as well to even out the story a bit. This book would be enjoyed by those who enjoy legal thrillers and with strong male and female characters can be read by both. I am hopeful that more books will be written in this series as I want to learn more about Hana, Daud, and their new little one. With numerous loose ends left untied, I am fairly confident more is in store for this couple.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Promised Land from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Robert whitlow is an author I found on accident. I purchased a book at a clearance sale because I love historical fiction and I love learning about Israel. I requested to read this book because I loved the first one so much. This author has an easy to read writing style and his work is action packed. I was on the edge of my seat. Imagine my delight when I realized this was the follow up book to the first one I read. I can’t wait to read more by this author. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review this work. Please don’t miss the chance to check this author out!

The opinion is mine. Electronic copy provided by the publisher and netgalley.

This is the first novel I have read by Robert Whitlow, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. Promised Land is the second book in the “Chosen People” series. I read it without reading the first book and had no problems following the characters and storyline. Daud and Hana’s story takes the reader from Atlanta, Georgia to Israel while weaving a gripping tale of intrigue and suspense. I was impressed by the author’s attention to detail and character development. The storyline had so many twists and turns that I didn’t want to put it down! I look forward to reading more by this author.

This is the first book I have read from this author and was completely startled and amazed at the imagery and the character development.. I found the genre to be quite unique as well. The book starts out with an espionage attempt gone wrong and Daud is being accused of the murder of an operative related to jihad terrorism. Hana is a lawyer and has her own irons in the fire as well. They are both israeli and after finding out that Hana is expecting, there is a pull for both of them to find their home whether it be in the US, or in Jerusalem. I learned a lot about culture in this book and was really drawn to the story. Thanks for the ARC, Net Galley.

Robert Whitlow is a new to me author, so this is the first book that I have read by him. This work of fiction takes a unique look at what it's like to be an Arab-Christian from Jerusalem. A realistic look in today's modern world, specifically Middle Eastern politics. Mixed with a bit of mystery, intrigue, and a touch of family drama. Promised Land is an interesting read that tells a story from both sides of the fence that focuses on real issues that everyone is (or at least should be) aware of.

Captivating read full of mystery and intrigue:
This book seamlessly combined politics, intrigue and religion. It was fast paced and action filled yet still with a human interest side that made it spellbinding. I thought the authour gave an accurate portrayal of the situation in the Middle East and it provided insight into both sides of the equation. The book was informative yet the plot wasn't bogged down by all of the facts.
I also found Hanna's faith and quiet times with God inspiring and moving. This was book two of the series and I would recommend reading them in order so as to get a complete picture of this young families journey.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

I do not get or take the time to read fiction. I love and enjoy fiction but rarely have the time to read it. This when I do get to read a good fiction it has to be good. I grew up reading Tolkien (naming two kids after characters in his works) and expect fiction to grip me from page one.
I only requested this work b cause I have read a few of the authors works years ago and enjoyed them, but was hesitant. Sometimes we find authors get worse as the years go by, losing their edge on creating a captivatingly unique work.
From the third page I was captured finding that I read 8 chapters before I knew it. This story has very clear characters that grab your attention. I feel that this is a book in the middle of a series or pointing back to another book, yet never once did I feel I was lacking in the story by having not read the first book.
Whitlow has captured my attention in a 007, Jack Ryan sort of way with this novel. It is well worth your time as well!

Robert Whitlow has been one of my favorite writers for a number of years - Promised Land did not disappoint. Daud and Hana Hasan are both involved in international careers - Daud working as a security consultant for organizations seeking to expand their presence into the Middle East and Hana working as a lawyer for a law firm serving international clients. Both speak multiple languages and have a cross-cultural background that serves them well.

Daud also occasionally contracts with the CIA using his unique talents. His most recent contact with the CIA has put both his and Hana’s life in danger, both during a business trip to Israel and back home in Atlanta. Things become significantly complicated when Hana discovers that she is pregnant with her first child.

The characters are well-developed, having appeared in Whitlow’s earlier novel, Chosen People. Their spiritual lives will be challenged and grow during the year which is covered in this current book. The dangers represented by those seeking to kill Hana and Daud, the concern they have for their new family, and the irritation seen as the couple seek a new home for their growing family, all add to the realism found in Promised Land.

Fans of Whitlow, Grisham, or Turow will not be disappointed. Promised Land is a legal thriller worth the time spent reading - providing a good story and a bit of insight into the issues which are lived out daily by those living in the Middle East, whether in Israel or the surrounding Muslim communities. It easily earns a five-star review. I can only hope that there are more stories involving these characters in their new home.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

The story of Hana and Daud continues in this legal/political drama with tensions running high in the Middle East. Readers will want to read the first book in this series, Chosen People to fully understand this story. I love the strong faith of Hana and her middle of the night conversations with God. This story is very realistic in today's times. Recommended!

Incredible! I would give Promised Land 10 stars if I could. Robert Whitlow did an excellent job creating his characters, Hana and Daud and creating the storyline. He must have done tremendous research and it shows. This is a very action-packed, fast-paced novel. The intrigue and mystery are so intense it is palpable. Promised Land was one of those books where you know something bad is going to happen and you don’t want to finish it. Hana and Daud are both Christian Israelis living in Atlanta. Hana is an attorney and her husband Daud is a private investigator and an independent contractor. When Daud’s business starts threatening with his private life they must decide the best course of action to alleviate the threat. High praise for Promised Land. I would strongly recommend.

#robertwhitlow#promisedland#netgalley#attorney#privateinvestigator independentcontractor#atlantageorgia#themiddleeast#theholyland#cia#historicalartifacts#unrest

I read hundreds of books each year, and not a lot of them pertain to Christians in the Middle East, but this one does. I enjoy being educated, as well as entertained, and Whitlow did that in his latest.

There's mystery, politics, and family dynamics, so it's a good blend to keep the reader engaged. The characters are realistic. The book is about an area we see frequently in the news where hate is rampant, and a key theme in this book is for peace between Muslims and Christians.

This is the second book in the series, and I'd recommend reading them in order.

Robert Whitlow's novel "Promised Land" gives readers a glimpse of what it means to be an Arab Christian from Jerusalem. If you're looking for realistic, modern-day fiction, Whitlow provides in this novel that follows the lives of ex-intelligence officer Daud and his wife Hana, an accomplished lawyer fluent in Arabic, Hebrew, and English. The couple's determination to carve out a life of safety and security for themselves rubs up against their love for Israel, their homeland--which isn't so safe. Journey through the up's and down's in this roller coaster ride of a plot and see the Holy Land from a different perspective--that of Arabic Christians who live alongside Jews in Israel. This is a fascinating read that includes everything from fast-paced action scenes to interesting archaeological finds to contemplative moments in prayer and worship. It's truly a mixture, and it actually makes for quite a delightful novel. I'll definitely be looking for other books from Whitlow in the future to see what happens to Daud and Hana next!

Note: I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.