For fans of Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers

If you are a fan of hard hitting, beautifully written stories set in the biblical era than you will love The Emissaries series by Angela Hunt! It's turning out to be one of my favorite series of all time.

In this story we are following step sisters Prima and Mariana. Both extreme opposites but both looking for love and acceptance. And both find their experiences in unsuspecting ways.

This story just broke my heart and made me feel hope all at once. The author did a fantastic job and weaving both of these sisters' stories into a seamless tale. I can't wait until book three, I know it's going to be an adventure.

*thank you to NetGalley and Bethany House for a copy of this book to read and review, all thoughts are my own.

The Sisters of Corinth is an awesome read. This is my second biblical fiction where faith and fear was so tangible I felt what the characters felt. The description of the time, furnishings and customs made me think of the scenery in Esther, the movie which aired some years ago.

This is a story of emerging faith and the fight against darkness as one tries to be true to the one and only God, Yeshua. Set in Corinth AD, we hear mention of the Apostle Paul and meet the biblical characters of Aquila and Priscilla. They were beautifully placed in the story.

Angela made information dumps a thing of the past because she presented us with biblical history and made it so interesting. She introduces us to two sisters who became so by marriage. The separation of parentage also symbolizes the separation of their personalities and beliefs. Mariana is lightness and love, Prima is hatred, superiority and envy.

There were some uncomfortable moments in the story, but I sucked it up because I was getting another view of what life was truly like for early Christians. There were references made that I questioned, however, that was before I realized that this is a book 2.

This book reminds me that I am so lucky and blessed to be able to worship freely at home or in the sanctuary of a church building with no repercussions. It also convicts me that in the middle of their persecution they continued to believe, pray and most importantly, share the gospel. What am I doing with my freedom? Do I need to be in a position of fear in order to share my faith?

The back of the book has an authors note that answered questions I had while reading.

I highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy from netgalley and the publisher and all thoughts are my own.

Well, it has been a bit of time since I read an author Hunt story. Her stories always stand out to me as sweeping dramas that really put her characters through some tough situations. And this one was no exception.

My first thought was sisters, how lovely, I hope they rely upon one another in the tumultuous time of Roman history that they live in. No. That is certainly not what happened. First off, they are stepsisters and apparently not very close. Think Cinderella. Also, Mariana and her mother are believers in Yeshua, while Prima and her father still very much worship the old Roman gods.

While this is a story of sister pitted against sister, it is also a spiritual story of the one true God pitted against the idols. I enjoyed seeing the comparisons between the two, the loving and the good against the evil and destructive. And destructive they are as Prima seeks their help in stealing her sister's happiness away, all because she believes it belongs to her.

There are some shocking surprises that took place. Even though Prima was not a believer, she was still the daughter of a great Roman, the Chief Magistrate to be exact. Her behavior still surprised me. Please note she takes drastic steps to secure what she believes belongs to her. Lots of twists and turns in this one.

The ending also has me very anxious for the next in the series.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

I enjoyed this story by Angela Hunt. I liked how this story gave good insight into what early Christians may have faced as they navigated their new faith and learned to live it while those around them didn’t understand it. I liked seeing this story from the two sisters perspective and seeing how Mariana’s life was blessed as she chose to follow God even when it was difficult and seeing how Prima’s life fell apart as she tried to “please” the Gods. I thought this was a good contrast between following God and trying to seek our own desires. Although this is the second book in the series and I have not read the first book yet, I liked that this story could stand on its own. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

“Hester and Mariana could have their strange new god, but Father and I would remain true to the deities of Rome. They had made us part of an empire that brought its citizens power, slaves, and unimaginable luxuries.”

In The Sisters of Corinth, Angela Hunt spins a Biblical fiction tale so real, so suspenseful, and so engrossing that you will not want to put it down until you can finish it.
It is the story of the Roman world in the Apostle Paul’s time, during the reign of Nero. It is the story of a divided house. In a second marriage for both Corinthian statesman Narkis and his wife Hester, both bring daughters into the marriage. Prima and her father follow the Roman gods; Hester and her daughter, Mariana, have learned from Paulos and Acquilla & Priscilla to follow Yeshua.

Hunt’s novel consists of two basic conflicts. As we read alternating chapters narrated by the sisters, we see sister pitted against sister for the love of the son of the new governor of Corinth. The other conflict pits all the gods of Rome against the God Who created the Universe. “How could the gods disappoint me? Mariana’s God could not be stronger than Aphrodite, Jupiter, and Asclepius. She had one God; I had dozens. Impossible that one foreign God could have prevailed against the gods of Rome.”

Power, lust, and greed are very real and driving forces in Corinth ( and Roman) politics. How far will Narkis and his daughter, Prima, go to ensure they climb the social and political ladder leading to Rome?

I was amazed by the attitudes toward slaves of the day. Yet, I think that Hunt probably went light on her description of the depravity there.

I loved how a daily witness of love and kindness in their homes influenced people around Jeshua’s followers. I also loved discovering that this is a second book in a series of three. So I must find the first book and prepare for the way Hunt will wrap up things in the third. My little experience with Hunt and this time period says it may not be as pretty as I’d like!

Notable Quotables:

“Freedom was found in truth, and truth was found only in Adonai and His Son.”

“Your Adonai,” she said, her voice firm, “He must be the true God…Because He is the only God who asks His followers to do what they cannot do without His help.”

“Even the small mistakes of rulers loom large in history, and that thought is what terrifies me.”

“Perhaps it is the same with your God—if you know He is good, you can trust Him to be kind.”

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via Netgalley. I also purchased my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

I loved this story filled with faith, love, hate and sibling rivalry. I loved Mariana and how she was growing in her faith. I loved to hate Prima and how she treats Mariana and most everyone else. I am looking forward to the next book in this series to see what happens to many of these characters. I could not put this book down. I enjoyed all of the historical references throughout the story. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

My first book that I’ve read from the author, Angela Hunt, and I think I have a new favourite. I liked the fact it was very descriptive of the time period and customs of the day. Prima’s conniving evil schemes was getting hard to read halfway because I didn’t want anyone to get hurt. Lol. The author captured well just how the enemy works in the end. I liked how Mariana held onto her faith in God not knowing just how much her step-sister hated her. She recalled from the Word of God often and read from the very cool papyrus scroll that Paulos has sent to them. I think you will really enjoy this story over a nice cup of coffee. I received this e-book for free from Celebrate Lit Tour and the opinions I express are honest and my own.

I must start this review by commenting on the gorgeous cover art! This beautiful scene pulled me in immediately.

“The Sisters of Corinth” was a deep thinker for me. While reading, I often asked myself what I would do in a particular situation, especially when it pertains to faith. I love books that have me putting myself in the characters shoes, thinking their thoughts and feeling their heart. Angela Hunt is such a gifted storyteller, and her characters are authentic, easy to connect with, and unforgettable.

I enjoyed the two women’s alternating POVs, allowing me to experience the story fully. I connected with Prima and Mariana in different ways, and I was put through many emotions.

If you are part of a book club, don’t miss the questions and author’s note at the end…

First Line: When Salama stepped into my bedchamber, her face twisted with distress, I dropped the scroll I had been reading.
Series: The Emissaries, book 2
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Angela Hunt
Page Count: 384

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

I look forward to Angela Hunt’s books. They are so refreshing, inspiring, and uplifting.

I read this book in one sitting. Yes! It was that good.

It was a story about two sisters joined together by marriage but separated by faith. Mariana was a breath of fresh air. Her gentle and quiet spirit was admirable. Even though she was scared and unsure most times, I loved how she went after God’s heart in all things. I love the purity of her heart. It is a very rare quality, especially with people who have gone through what she went through.

I enjoyed how the story played out. It was very unpredictable and convicting. Loving those who hate you, praying for your enemies, and standing for your faith, among other inspiring themes, made this book a five-star book for me.

Another highlight of this book for me was how educational it was in biblical times. It makes understanding the Bible better because now I can understand better why some things were talked about in the Bible the way they were. It gives a lot of cultural background.

Highly recommended!

I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion.

The Sisters of Corinth by extraordinary wordsmith Angela Hunt is Book Two in her series The Emissaries. This Biblical Fiction series is set in New Testament times. The Sisters of Corinth can easily be read as a stand alone even though it is the second book.

Everything about this book is captivating beginning with the cover. It is hauntingly beautiful. This is the story of stepsisters Prima and Mariana. Reminiscent of Cinderella, one is loving and kind, while the other is self-centered and cruel. One sister worships Yeshua, and the other sister worships the pagan gods of Rome.

Characters are beautifully crafted with precision and finesse. I was immediately engaged with them and their story. The exceptional care given to details took me out of modern times and placed me back in 60 AD Corinth. The danger to Christians was real, and I could feel it. The author wove an exciting story that pulled on my heartstrings. There were many twists and turns.

The author has done a remarkable job with this brilliant tale. It made me uncomfortable in places where the temples to the pagan gods were mentioned or certain things were done. No details were given just the mention of things. Even though I know those things happened, I hate thinking about that evil.

I adore the author’s style of writing and her love for Jesus. Her book is captivating and flows smoothly like a river. It was well researched and all things sounded authentic. She included a beautiful inspirational lesson. The spiritual messages to trust God in all things and that He loves us shine brightly throughout the entire book.

After the story there are author notes, reading group questions, author information, upcoming book notes, and references. Before the story begins is an Introduction section. Be sure to read this information. I highly recommend this book to lovers of Biblical Fiction. It would be perfect for a reading group. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by CelebrateLit, but these are my honest words.

The author is good when it comes to writing Biblical fiction. Her attention to details allow readers to travel back in time with our characters. We follow two stepsisters who are quite different. Mariana is a Christian and does not waver from her faith. Prime on the other hand desires to have riches and is ready to marry.

Prima is not a pleasant person at all. She judges others and is always looking for ways to embarrass Mariana. Prima’s disrespect for those she thinks are poor or beneath her is so sad. I think her jealousy is what is really going on. Her father has told her that “life was a competition.” So with that mindset she will do whatever is necessary to marry into wealth.

I enjoyed the story and saw the difference between the two sisters but there were a few things I didn’t care for. It is definitely easy to compare this story to Cinderella. That isn’t a bad thing but the continued points about how Prima was so rude, jealous and mean started to be repetitive. I do enjoy this author and see how her characters have flaws. Overall the book has a great message of faith.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

I really enjoyed this book. I finished it a while ago and wish I wrote this immediately to point out specifics that I loved. I listened to the kindle read aloud to and from work and got wrapped up in the characters and setting. I love the time period of Ancient Rome and the early church. Mariana's seeking heart carried her through joys and trials. The honest way that she lived her life for Christ drew others to her and to Jesus. I want to go back and read the first of the series and can't wait for the third one. We are left with a cliffhanger, but it is the kind that, even if it ends "badly", provides hope and purpose. Just like any life led for Jesus.

Angela Hunt is one of my favorite authors of Biblical fiction. Her books paint a vivid picture of the time period and the trials and strength of faith they experienced. They also have the added bonus of encouraging me back to the Bible excited to compare what The Word says about the same situations or time periods. I strongly recommend this and any of her books!

A riveting read that brings to life the ancient Roman world, and the powerful strongholds that came with living in a pagan society in the early days of the church.

Chief Magistrate Narkis Ligus has a plan to raise his status by marrying one of his two daughters to the new provincial governor, Prima longs for the opportunity, while Mariana is a follower of Yeshua and has no interest in marrying a man who worships the Roman gods. A gripping read that brings the early church in Rome to life vividly, I was so inspired by their strong faith, and willingness to stand against the popular culture, even if it meant their lives.

Mariana is a faithful Christian, and daughter, I liked how she did her best in each challenge that came her way, holding to her faith. It was harder to read Prima's chapters because of all the awful things that she did to Hester and Mariana. But I also really admired Hester, for her gentle way of living her faith.

Overall, an engaging read, full of faith, that brings a very real time in the early church to life. A riveting drama with characters that you can cheer for throughout!



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

I have enjoyed a number of Angela Hunt’s books, especially the Biblical Fiction series she did about various women who were in Jesus’ life. So when she began a new series, called The Emissaries, about people who had contact with the apostle Paul, I was eager to read these books, as well. I liked a lot of what I read in The Sisters From Corinth, the second book in the series, but I did come away with mixed feelings.
I can’t say very much about this book without giving spoilers. The plot has so many complications that I was drawn in and kept interested all the way through! I really liked Mariana. She lived by her convictions, and, while she did compromise to a certain extent, in the beginning of the book, she declared her faith firmly later, when she could do so without endangering her mother. I really appreciated a discussion two people had at one point in the book about grieving the loss of children, and where unborn babies’ souls end up.
There were two basic themes that I was somewhat uncomfortable with. One was that a character prostituted herself multiple times throughout the book in order to further her selfish goals. This was handled very discreetly, but it was there. What I did like about that was the clear picture of how our actions determine our destiny. The other thing that I questioned was whether Christian women would have spent so much time putting on make up and jewelry in order to appear beautiful at banquets. In the situation in which Mariana and her mother found themselves, though, they may well have, and possibly Paul’s teachings about women adorning themselves with God works rather than gold and pearls (1 Tim 2:9) had not reached Corinth at this time. I liked the ending of The Sisters From Corinth—and it leaves me dangling. Now I need to read the next book so I know what happened to them now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
WARNING: Chapter 15: Several cats die. Chapter 17: Man assaults woman. Chapter 19: Sentence about temple prostitution. Chapter 20: Married couple in bed together. Chapter 21: Man killed by gladiator in arena; woman prostitutes herself to a man (happens repeatedly through the rest of the book). Chapter 22: Aftermath of first prostitution. Chapter 24: More thoughts about committing “acts that would shame my father.” Chapter 25: Baby dies. Several more references to unwed pregnancy; worship of Aphrodite throughout the book.

Another historical gem from the pen of Angela Hunt
Will I fight the good fight to the end is the question I asked myself after reading Angela Hunt’s The Sisters of Corinth. The struggles encountered by the early Christians are revealed in this novel.
The Sisters of Corinth is a book set in the city of Corinth during the reign of the Roman emperor Nero. Hester and Mariana are a mother-daughter duo living in the house of Narkis, magistrate of Corinth with Prima, Narkis’s daughter, Hester’s stepdaughter, and Mariana’s stepsister. The two despite living in a house where the Roman gods are worshipped are followers of Christ. The novel revolves the two opposite sisters, Mariana, and Prima. Both women are devoted to their beliefs with the difference being Mariana having to discretely practice her faith in the Jewish God.
Prima who has passed the age of marriage sees an opportunity to amend this on the arrival of the governor of Corinth with his son Marcus. Her hope of securing such an advantageous marriage is dashed when Marcus falls in love with her stepsister and proceeds to marry her. This begins Prima’s relentless journey to destroy this union and claim Marcus for herself.
I struggled a bit reading this novel because I found Mariana character too gullible. The first half of this novel was quite slow-paced. The novel however, picked up at the second half of the novel with the cliffhanger tempting me to want to read the third instalment of this series. Overall, the novel was a good read. The battle between good and evil, contending for one’s faith in a pagan world, jealousy and rivalry were well captured in this novel.
Fans of Angela Hunt who are acquainted with her style of writing will not be disappointed by this novel.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion."

"The Sisters of Cornith" is the second book in The Emissaries series, but you do not have to read Book 1 to understand this one. This novel takes us into the heart of ancient Corinth post a visit from the apostle Paul. Two stepsisters are the flip sides of a citizen of Cornith: Mariana, a secret follower of Yeshua and Prima, a spoiled, self-aborbed idol worshipper. When Mariana's stepfather arranges a marriage for her to the son of the new governor, Prima, who had set her hopes on marrying him, seeks revenge on Mariana through the goddess Aphrodite. There is nothing she won't do to try to break up the marriage, no matter what it costs her. Mariana struggles to remain true to Yeshua as she grows in her love for her non-believing husband. What will her faith cost her?

The book was brilliantly written from both characters' viewpoints. For some, this might be a difficult read in what Prima initiates and experiences in her quest for revenge. There are parts that can seem disturbing but paint a very realistic picture of what was all involved in the worship of the Greek gods and later, emperor worship. It also shows us the tenacious faith of the early believers who had far less to hold on to than we do in our modern context.

This novel is another brilliant addition to the Biblical fiction genre. I received an advanced reader copy from Bethany House and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is the first book that I’ve read by Angela Hunt. I didn’t know much about the book before I started reading other than it’s biblical fiction that strives to be historically accurate.

I have to admit I struggled a bit getting into the story. For me it seemed more like a biblical retelling of Cinderella with the evil stepsister and the good sister who immediately strikes up a strong friendship with her handmaid and is kind to everybody. The way the people talked seemed a bit too modern to me, though I have to admit for one of course they didn’t speak English in Corinth and second this assessment is based on my feelings and not knowledge of the manner of speaking in Corinth at that time.

The more I got into the story, the easier I could accept that a story can be historically accurate while reminding me of a fairytale. I do believe that the events in this book could have happened, but I consider them very unlikely. The contrast between the sisters is very extreme. Mariana being very naive, but kind, modest and treating slaves like friends, Prima being only driven by jealousy, bitterness and venom. Like I said, all possible, but in this extreme rather improbable in my opinion.

After I decided to read this book as a biblical fairytale I quite enjoyed it and really wanted to know what would happen to the characters.

I personally didn’t appreciate the “letter from Paulos” since I wouldn’t want to put words into his mouth and give advice for a very specific situation that is not discussed in its entirety in the Scriptures.

I did however appreciate the problem that Mariana saw herself presented with (and for which she seeked advice from Paul). And that is the question if she as a follower of Jesus should marry a non believer - or better a worshiper of false gods - in her specific situation or should she stay strong, openly declare that she no longer prays to the Roman gods but only bows to the one true God which would not only put her in danger of punishment or persecution but also her mother who already was married when she decided to follow Jesus.

I loved this question and how Mariana, a girl in the eyes of our standards, truly wanted to do what would please God. How many Christians today don’t even consider if marrying a non believer is what God wants, if it is what they want.
Mariana was a character with flaws and struggles, but I think her prayers and the way she questioned herself, if she was really doing what was right or if she was just following her heart was kind of inspiring.

“During the struggle, one question haunted me. If Marcus had been old and unattractive, or if he had insulted me when we met in the barn, would I be struggling with this choice? Would it be easier to obey Paulos’s instruction if I loved Yeshua more and Marcus less?”

“I agreed to the marriage because God had given me peace, but perhaps I mistook my longing for love as God’s shalom. Had I been so blinded by my own desire that I missed the will of Adonai?”


So I ended up really enjoying this book and was a bit sad that it had a rather open ending. As I understood, book 1 “The Woman from Lydia” and 2 “The Sisters of Corinth” will be concluded in the third book of the Emissaries series. I can live with the ending of this second book because I thought the important thing was that Mariana stayed steadfast and seemed even more confident than ever in her faith. So it wasn’t a cliffhanger that leaves you desperate for the sequel, but I sure will keep an eye out for the next installment.

* I received a copy of this book from LibraryThing (Early Reviewers) via NetGalley. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.

The Sisters of Corinth by Angela Hunt immerses readers in a world where the clash of belief systems ignites a fervent flame of courage and unyielding commitment. Through the captivating journey of Marianna and her mother, Hester, readers are transported to a time where the depth of one's faith was tested against the backdrop of societal pressures, devotion to false gods, and familial obligations.

The characters, both lovable and detestable, were expertly crafted, drawing readers into their complex personalities and motivations. The intricately woven plot kept me engaged from start to finish, with its twists and turns adding depth and excitement to the story. Angela Hunt's writing style and thematic depth were impressive, enriching the narrative with layers of meaning and emotion. My heart is racing with anticipation for the next book in the series!

Hunt's narrative invites readers to explore the reflective themes of getting to know God and loving Him with all our hearts, as Marianna grapples with the challenges of her time. As she navigates the complexities of her faith and the demands of her family, Marianna's unwavering commitment to Yeshua serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards spiritual maturity and full surrender to Him.

Through moments of triumph and turmoil, Hunt's characters contend with doubt and uncertainty, yet emerge stronger and more resolute in their convictions. As Marianna reflects on the challenges she faces, her words serve as a reminder of the inherent struggles we encounter in our journey of faith.

At the core of The Sisters of Corinth beats the author's fervent prayer: that within its pages, readers will not only witness but also be profoundly moved by the unyielding vision, courage, and devotion of those early followers of Jesus. With every word penned, there's a resounding call to embrace a transformative journey—one that ignites the flames of passion and unwavering commitment to the one and only true God. In the midst of life's storms, these tales compel us to forge an unbreakable bond with our faith, empowering us to navigate the darkest of times with unwavering trust and steadfast love for our Savior.

“ … if you know He {God} is good, you can trust Him to be kind." These words echo a timeless truth, reminding us of the boundless love and compassion of our Heavenly Father.

"I feel it's important to acknowledge that I chose to skip over the scenes depicting pleas to the Roman gods and similar actions. I understand why Hunt included those actions and she makes it truly clear -- in the book and in her notes -- the truth of Deuteronomy 32:16-18: “… They sacrificed to demons, a non-god…” Personally, I felt it necessary to distance myself from such influences, opting instead to immerse myself in the timeless truths of the Bible and the profound impact of Paul’s letters, as experienced by Marianna and Hester. The thought of experiencing Paul’s letters in real-time during that historical period is truly fascinating to me.

The Sisters of Corinth invites readers to step into a story that transcends the boundaries of time and space, reminding us of the importance of loving God with all our hearts and living out our faith every second regardless of the consequences. Through the lives of Marianna and Hester, we are inspired to cultivate a deep and abiding relationship with God, embracing His love and grace, as we walk in obedience to Him in every aspect of our lives.

I received a digital copy of The Sisters of Corinth from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

I enjoyed the first book from Angela Elwell Hunt's The Emissaries series, The Woman from Lydia, and was excited to get my hands on the second installment, The Sisters of Corinth. I was not disappointed. I loved the vivid details the author used that made me feel as though I was right there during this era. The characters were interesting and the plot was intriguing. A beautiful book to read.

The Sisters of Corinth will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean Biblical Fiction. I would love to see another book to release from The Emissaries series to see who from the New Testament will be featured next.

I received a copy of Angela Elwell Hunt's The Sisters of Corinth from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.

It s not often you find a clean Christian fiction book you can become totally engrossed in and are eager to recommend.

I have not previously read anything by the author and was totally unprepared. This book was amazing and left mebwanting more.

High praises for Angela Hunt. Will definately be seeking.out her other books.

Five stars.