Another amazing novel from Heather Kaufman!
Before the King takes place during the lifetime of Jesus, and Joanna, the main character, has a friendship with him and his followers. I was immersed in the biblical setting, and I was encouraged by the stories of Jesus' miracles and his love.

The story is full of of deep relationships that bring both hurt and love. There's betrayal, insecurities, forgiveness and restoration. There are several suspenseful scenes, so don't think this story is calm or boring! Joanna's romance story caused a bit of anguish, but the causes (wrong thinking) were dealt with.

My favorite aspect of Before the King is how I can relate to Joanna: my spiritual relationship with Jesus mirrors Joanna's "in real life" relationship with Jesus. For example, she said, "I'd allowed myself to become defined by the wound. Could I learn to be defined by His joy?" I can say this about myself.

The novel closes with the author giving further explanations about her research and where she took creative license. She encourages us to go back to the Bible and read the story for ourselves. There are also questions for a book club. Highly recommended!

I...I have no words. I took notes, but I am so profoundly moved by this book.

I have nothing. I took quotes. So many quotes that I finally stopped typing them in my phone because my fingers were cramping.

Profoundly moved isn't a strong enough statement. I have no words.

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

Book Two in Author Heather Kaufman’s Women of the Way Series is a compelling Biblical Fiction read. This author does her research on Biblical times which gave me a better understanding of the characters. Biblical Fiction in no way rewrites the Bible, its intention is to enhance the story. The reader can relate to what the characters might have experienced. Joanna’s story emphasizes her choices between her loyalty to her family and her own desires. Author Kaufman creates a gripping narrative of faith, strength, and love within the danger of King Herod's court. In my opinion it is a must-read!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I really loved this biblical historical fiction. Before reading this story about Joanna, I went back and read what was said about her in the Bible. I really appreciated the author’s note at the end that expounded on how she shaped the story, based on this biblical person. So much can be learned with how little was said. I feel like I learned a lot and loved the learning process.

The story is a compelling story, but also one of faith. I loved learning about faith by the way the characters experienced faith and discussed it. I love learning through the pleasure of reading. One of my favorite ways of learning. I was very attached to the characters and loved reading about their trials of faith and how different characters confronted different trials. The story was more than Joanna’s story. It was about growth, pride, faith, choice, and the impact the gospel has on people of every walk of life. I especially enjoyed the complexity of choice. What does being a follower of Jesus mean? How do we weigh the consequences of our choices and how they affect those around us? How do we accept followers of Christ that don’t fit the mold? If you like The Chosen series, you will love this one.

While this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone novel. I will definitely be reading more by this author.

Oh wow! I fell in love with Heather’s writing with her book Up from Dust and have been eagerly awaiting this book Before the King and it did not disappoint. If you have been following me for a while you know that I like to call Biblical Fiction the “what-if” writing. I call it this because it truly puts you into a position where you are wondering what if that could have happened. I mean you read the Bible but you don’t get to see the nitty gritty of every day of life or in this case learn about the characters such as Joanna who is only mentioned in the Bible a handful of time.

Oh this story… it’s so wonderfully written. The first part of the book we learn about Joanna and her life with her family. The relationship with her sister was so special. I won’t give it away but make sure you have the tissues on hand. The second part of the story it evolves to her as a wife and a follower of Christ in Herod’s kingdom. It was so great to see her talk to John the Baptist and of course encountering Jesus as he heals her body. Chills is what I got when that moment occurred… again to think of the what it would have been like for Jesus to call you by name and heal your body. To hear Jesus speak about who He is… wowza!

A million kudos to Heather Kaufman for writing such an amazing stories. For all the research and following God’s calling to write it. Praying he gives you many more stories to tell so that we may also be blessed by them.

If you enjoy Biblical Fiction go grab this book and her first one! You will love them!!

Thank you for having me on your release team! I was not required to post a positive review. All views are my own.

Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.

Before the King is the second installment in the Women of the Way series, a collection of standalone novels linked by a common denominator, the hinge point of all history: Jesus. Each novel follows a different woman mentioned in the New Testament, but about whom little else is known. Before the King is the story of Joanna, wife to one of King Herod’s administrators and financial supporter of Jesus’ ministry.

I fell in love with Joanna pretty immediately. From the very first page, I found her incredibly compelling and sympathetic. Joanna’s Sadducee family lives life to the full. Or so they think. They fullness they’ve embraced is decadent and entitled and leaves Joanna feeling empty. There is deep-seated pain right beneath the surface of her seemingly perfect life. One bright spot is Dalia, Joanna’s sister who suffers from a then nameless affliction we now know as epilepsy. The stigma surrounding such a malady resulted in their parents sending Dalia away to live with country relatives while doing everything in their power to find the exceptionally beautiful Joanna a worthy match. Joanna and Dalia don’t often see one another, but Dalia’s faith and wisdom even in the midst of her affliction are incredibly inspiring. Her disability has drawn her closer to God instead of driving her farther away. I found her fervent faith in the midst of adversity beautiful and inspiring. Joanna felt the same, until an even greater tragedy struck.

Adrift and now crippled herself, Joanna’s life is suddenly radically different than the future her parents had envisioned for her. But even in the midst of pain both physical and spiritual, Joanna finds new and unexpected solace in Adonai. Then ensues a marriage of convenience full of mutual pining, followed by a relationship that will turn Joanna’s world upside down when she meets the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth.

Something about Joanna’s honest struggles and deepening faith resonated so strongly with me that it made my heart ache. The presentation of Jesus through the eyes of Joanna was powerful, shining a new light on and giving a new angle to the Greatest Story Ever Told. Kaufman stays perfectly faithful to Scripture, and every aspect of the story felt theologically sound.

There was a romantic element to the plot that, while secondary, was incredibly well done. The aforementioned mutual pining was exquisite, and the emotional payoff of that pining finally being answered was substantial. I fell in love with the romantic lead alongside Joanna, and found their story moving.

Before the King is likely the best work of Biblical fiction I’ve ever read. It’s heartfelt and sincere, wise and fresh and encouraging. Joanna’s story is going to stay with me. If you’re only ever going to read one work of Biblical fiction, make it this one.

"Lukewarm loyalty is worse than no loyalty at all."

When I saw this cover and read the description, I knew I wanted to be all-in on this book. I'm a big fan of Christian fiction as well as non-fiction Christian books and was so excited to pick this one up. Heather Kaufman is a new-to-me author and I had no idea what to expect going into this book.

Let me tell you: IT WAS EVERYTHING!

If you are a fan of The Chosen, enjoy learning about Christ's time on earth, love learning about historical eras, time periods and customs--then I think you would absolutely LOVE this book.

I've read quite a few books surrounding the Life of the Savior (through fiction historical texts and straight from the bible) and I love being able to feel transported to that time. What really caught me by surprise in this particular book was that the main character was the daughter of a Sadducee. If you're unfamiliar with type of religious leader it's one who doesn't believe in eternal life. It gave such an interesting perspective and gave so much insight into things I didn't know or had considered.

'Following Jesus came with a cost.'

This book is a complete journey and one I wanted to follow along with every step of the way. The romance was beautiful and my heart was an emotional mess through it all (in a good way). I loved that this author told an almost untold story of Joanna--I loved seeing what might have been with her. If you aren't already a huge fan of John the Baptist, I think you will be after finishing this one. The scenes involving him were incredibly impactful. It's always a testimony builder to feel surrounded by the Savior.

I can't recommend this one enough to my Christian readers...especially if you like The Chosen--it's a MUST READ!

The writing is beautiful and I can't wait to see what this author writes next. I loved her writing style and will absolutely be picking up any future books!

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

Content/Trigger: Life of Christ (following his persecution and ultimately his crucifixion), beheading of John the Baptist mentioned-not descriptive. Redemption/Joy/Forgiveness, death of a loved one, mention of seizures and mild violence. Romance-kisses only and there is a marriage of convenience turned more between the main characters (no explicit details of intimacy).

Just like the first book in this series, "Before the King" immerses the reader in an engaging storyline, ancient contexts, and reflective themes. Right from the start, my heart was invested! We get to live in the political court of Herod, Joanna's journey of faith & love, and the ministry and final years of Yeshua/Jesus. I also loved getting to hang out with the disciples! Also, Chuza is such an interesting character and it was fascinating to see him attempt to balance his duty to the king, his relationship with Joanna, and his past...
There are a few plot lines I would have liked to see resolved at the end, but I love that the overall conlusion was full of hope and promise!
You can clearly tell that Heather takes Scripture seriously and I appreciated all her comments in the Author's Note. I will definitely be reading book 3 when it comes out next year!!

Some of my favorite non-spoilery quotes:

"What others think of me has no bearing on who I am... what people think changes all the time. What is true never changes."

"He is a God who keeps his word. When He makes a promise, He stands by it. The faithfulness of your God is what makes your people distinct. Surely you can find rest in His presence, no matter where you go."

"Faith is founded on Adonai Himself and not on the condition that He act in a certain way at a certain time."

"But you must learn to live your life, Jojo. It's the one God gave you. You have to find a way to live it."

"Didn't I tell you that I've never aspired to be like most men? I will not put you aside. You expect to be used and discarded, but I will not do that to you, Joanna."

If you want to read another story about Joanna, I also recommend the Court of the Tetrarch trilogy by Katrina Hamel.

This was a phenomenal read. This is my first by this author. I debated about reading it because I wasn’t entirely sure about it, especially as I didn’t think there was going to be romance. However, there was a small thread of romance, and that was appreciated. But, even beyond that, I absolutely loved the story. I loved diving into Joanna and learning new things, both about her and the historical records. It’s always fun to dive into time periods that we read about in the Bible and see the events brought to life through an author’s eyes and through other characters’ eyes. I liked seeing all of the side characters that were brought to life. I liked seeing the disciples and familiar scenes from the gospels, as well as verses. It really was a unique read. This is a perfect story to read with Easter coming up.

Before the King is the second book I have read written by Heather Kaufman. It is the second book in the Women of the Way series and has become a must-read series for me. From the very beginning I was sucked in.

The character development was amazing. Scripture doesn’t tell us much about Joanna. So, it was fun to explore what her story might have been like. Learning about how people were treated who had different illnesses during bible times interesting.

The storyline and setting were great. It really brought the bible and Jesus to life. It was fun seeing what might have transpired from the little we know about Joanna.

The romance was the perfect balance. I loved watching Joanna slowly find love with Chuza. It was a slow build and was very clean.

Heather Kaufman did a great job intertwining faith throughout the whole novel. Which can seem easy to do when doing a biblical based book. It was very evident that a lot of research and time went into writing this book. I appreciate the work.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

“Sometimes we have to choose happiness, and even then . . . we often have to wait for it. We aren’t always able to harvest happiness immediately, but we can nurture it while it grows.”

This is my first book by Heather Kaufman and I am floored. I can see now why she’s the newest acclaimed voice in Biblical fiction. I love Biblical fiction but tend to stay away from books that use creative license with Jesus’ words. I was hesitant to pick up this book but I’m glad I read it. There was only a bit of creative reimagining of Jesus’ words in the book when He spoke - most were straight from the Bible. The way the author described Jesus’ ministry through Joanna’s experience was incredibly tangible and real. I loved watching Joanna grow up and loved experiencing Jewish culture and Herod’s court during Jesus’ time.

Joanna’s first person voice was simply beautiful. Her sorrows, fears, regrets, failures, hopes, and dreams melded to create a beautiful woman, inside and out. Her generosity and tenacity were her best qualities. Chuza was an amazing hero, so steadfast, faithful, calm, intelligent, compassionate, and loving. Though their marriage of convenience, their friendship, then finally romance were fantastic, the real plot of the story was about Jesus’ sacrifice and gift. How He heals broken relationships, bodies, hearts and souls was at the center of the story. It was truly amazing to relive His healings, teachings, death and resurrection through Joanna and Chuza’s imagined lives.

If you love Biblical fiction, this book is an absolute must-read. Heather Kaufman has gained another fan!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through LibraryThing via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Thank you to @bethanyhousefiction, @netgalley, and @hmkstories for my gifted copies of this title in exchange for an honest review.]

“My eyes mist, for I am not brave, and I tell him so. I am an ordinary woman whom God chose to put in extraordinary places. Any strength to be found in my story is His alone. I only did what I could with what I had, and this, I now know, is how His kingdom advances.”

After reading Martha’s story in Up from Dust, I have been so looking forward to reading Joanna’s story in Before the King. This was one of my most highly anticipated 2025 books, and it was everything I’d been hoping for.

Before the King is full of beauty and truth and goodness. There’s sorrow and hardship, but joy and restoration too. I loved the friendships, the sister bond, and the romance in this story. It was so fascinating to me how the author was able to put much of this story together through researching Joanna’s husband, Chuza. Amazing!

Writing biblical fiction is tricky, because the author needs to write a compelling story while also staying true to the Bible. Heather Kaufman does this SO well. The books in this series are so well researched, full of biblical theology, and true to Scripture, while also bringing historical women we meet in the Bible to life, telling us stories of what their life could have been like.

Though this is the second book in the series, Before the King can absolutely be read as a stand-alone–no spoilers for you. However, Up from Dust, the first book in the series, is absolutely phenomenal and you do not want to miss it!

Highly recommend!

Be prepared for your heartstrings to be tugged in Heather Kaufman's latest novel, Before the King. The story unfolds with a well-paced rhythm, each chapter plucking at your heart with tender depths as you experience Joanna's emotional journey—her struggles and tears, her hopes and fears—all guided by God's will.

The beautifully slow blossom of faith through adversity reaches a crescendo in the tension of the story, and truly packs a heartwarming response. Romance unfolds like the curling petals of a fresh flower in spring, bringing a softness to the dramatic circumstances and harsh realities facing the main characters.

Joanna’s heartache, a low thrumming beneath the surface of the story, resonates deeply, touching the reader's own relatable experiences. Introduced as a mere observer, Chuza's quiet attentiveness and thoughtful demeanor make him an admirable character. The sheer excitement of uncovering his hidden depths was breathtaking as the plot moved forward.

With its historically accurate details and immersive prose, the book brings scripture to life, resonating deeply with readers already well-versed in the Bible. If you love biblical fiction, be sure to add this to your list. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Thank you to Heather Kaufman, NetGalley, and Bethany House for this #gifted book!
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Title: Before the King
Author: Heather Kaufman
Genre: Biblical Fiction
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Synopsis: “Who was this rabbi who seemed wholly unaffected by Herod? And how could I share in his certainty and strength?” Joanna’s family is one of wealth and influence that also has its secrets. So when it’s time to marry, her parents seek to cover those up and find her the best match alongside a man in Jewish leadership. But devastating loss and traumatic circumstances change all arrangements made. When presented with a new proposal, Joanna embraces life in Herod’s court. But tumultuous political times come when a new Rabbi comes on the scene. Word of healing the sick, forgiveness of sins, and a new king begins to spread, and Joanna wonders if what is said about of him could really be true. And when she meets him, Joanna’s life is forever changed. The question now—is she really brave enough to follow Jesus?

Analysis: Heather Kaufman continues her Women of the Way series with Joanna’s brave and beautiful story. I think biblical fiction is one of the toughest subgenres to write because you want to write a compelling story while also holding true to Scripture. Heather has covered this book in prayer and research and humbly tells this fictionalized account that will have you longing for the day we meet Jesus face to face. You’ll find yourself immersed in Jesus’ time on earth and walking through the heartbreak, healing, and hope of his earliest disciples. I feel that Joanna’s story is one that we can all relate with—are we truly brave enough to follow Jesus? And the most beautiful part is to see how Jesus meets Joanna (and us) right where we are. If you want to be challenged to dig into scripture and to imagine what life may have been like during Jesus time on earth, I highly recommend picking up this book!

PS - there’s also beautiful family relationship, friendship, and a little romance 😍

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Just a note: While this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone! I’d recommend it whether or not you’ve read the first book Up from Dust, but also, you should read the first because it was one of my top 2 from 2024. Before the King just might be my favorite from 2025!

*I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Finished this moved to tears. Beautiful! Raw. Poignant. Jesus changes everything, and Before the King shows this well. Another captivating Biblical fiction novel from Heather Kaufman.

“We were never meant to live under the tyranny of fear and grief.”

This story was exquisite!

"Before The King" is about Joanna, wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and what her life might have been like. While "Before The King" and "The Chosen" tv series are both works of fiction, they present possibilities and situations that real-life Joanna may have faced while discovering and following Jesus. Personally, the angle of Joanna that the author wrote in "Before The King" is my favorite fictional depiction of her thus far.

I truly enjoyed this book, and it honestly left me speechless. I like when books do that, and when I go to review them I'm just like, "Y'all need to read this. End of story." :)

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary e-book I received to review through LibraryThing and Netgalley.
I was not required to write a positive review, and the thoughts above are my own.

"I am an ordinary woman whom God chose to put in extraordinary places." This quote near the beginning of the story grabbed my attention and did not let go until the last page was read.

Heather Kauffman has crafted a beautifully written story that captured my imagination and heart. Readers will follow Joanna's journey of faith, one that will break their hearts then put it back together again as she is witness to the last days of Jesus' ministry on Earth.

In Before the King, Joanna witnesses several horrific events, questioning the presence of God amidst the suffering, uncertain that he cares for individuals. Having seen the strong faith her sister holds, she seeks answers.

Ms. Kauffman's vivid prose brought the Biblical story to life. Joanna's path eventually crosses that of Jesus and she is witness to his ministry. Her journey of faith is one of grace and forgiveness.

Joanna is only mentioned a couple of times in the Bible, yet the author does not take away from the truths of the Bible. She merely pens a story of what might have been, allowing her readers to grasp the miracle of Jesus' time on Earth, allowing them to grasp the truths that are relevant regardless of time or place. Highly recommend to readers of Biblical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I find I’m struggling to put into words how much I loved “Before the King.” I feel as though my own words are inadequate and won’t do justice to this heart rendering story. Biblical fiction is my favorite genre as it often convicts me and helps me learn and grow in my own faith, Kaufman did just that through her beautifully crafted story of Johanna. Kaufman poured her heart into Joanna’s story and it flowed straight from the pages into the readers heart and mind. From garden to garden, and everything she experienced between, Johanna’s story blossomed and captured my heart. I cried so many times through the heartache and joys she experienced. Watching her find healing inwardly and physically, watching her struggle in faith and grow in faith, and watching her find forgiveness and give forgiveness was the greatest joy. My expectations for “Before the King” were extremely high after reading “Up from Dust,” and H. Kaufman far surpassed every expectation I had and has left me pondering this story from a Biblical sense even more so.

*I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review, only one that was honest. The opinions I have expressed are my own and personal thoughts on this book.

Excellent biblical fiction! I so enjoyed this story about Joanna, her early life, the troubles she goes through, how she follows Jesus, and her encounters with Him.

She’s a wealthy daughter of a Sadducee in the Sanhedrin; her parents think everything centers on how rich they are and the people they mix with. They’re thrilled to be close to Herod. Joanna’s parents arrange a marriage for her that she’s not too sure about.

Joanna’s life is changed by the unexpected and she withdraws from life. She hears about Jesus from a friend who was healed and is intrigued. What could Jesus mean in her life?

We’re with Joanna as she follows Jesus and experience the joy He brings her. As her faith grows we’re there with her. Through all the difficulties in her life we’re rooting for her. When Jesus is crucified she is shattered; no one wants to believe God would allow that. But then there is the Resurrection!

I loved every bit of this amazing book! And if you love this, don’t miss Heather Kaufman’s Up From Dust: Martha’s Story (Martha of Bethany). I’m looking forward to this author’s next book!

Before the King, by Heather Kaufman, is a brilliant biblical fiction novel that immerses readers in the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry. The novel is told through the eyes of Joanna, a beautiful yet resilient woman whose life is changed through horrific events. Through this character, the author weaves a tale exploring doubt and confusion about life, love, God, and why He allows suffering.

Her sister, Dalia, struggles with what can only be described as epilepsy. This disease was often viewed as demon possession. Dalia’s parents go to extreme lengths to hide their daughter from the prying eyes of King Herod’s court and the Sanhedrin, much to the distress of Joanna.

Yet, Dalia’s faith in God and her unwavering love and trust in Him vibrate throughout the pages of this book. It is this faith that her sister Joanna will look to as she faces struggles in the years ahead.

Kaufman excels at creating vivid and sensory descriptions that place you in the heart of the Holy Land. But it is her ability to get inside her characters that drive this story. I felt like God had opened a window to the past and said, “This happened. Use it for your story.” This is how real this story felt.

Pulled from the pages of history, the secondary characters, from King Herod to the disciples to Jesus Himself, created a cornucopia of feelings that will live within me for quite some time. The author’s understanding of the human soul with all its foibles was refreshing.

But the one thing that stood out most for me in this book was how lovingly she wrote about Jesus and His interactions with others. I cannot say what happened (spoilers) but when healing was offered to a certain character, this entire scene had my heart racing and crying because I am disabled. The author’s description of this moment in time reflected everything my heart desired and everything I questioned about my faith and whether I would ever be healed. Well done, Ms. Kaufman! You have given me hope.

This book is compelling and captivating, and will never let you go. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for my honest review.