The Daughter of Rome is a stirring and inspiring read.

Having read The Sisters of Corinth (the previous book in this series) last year, I was eager to dive into this one. I was delighted to see some familiar characters make a return, with added to the excitement. The author is an incredibly talented storyteller who brings biblical times and characters to life. I especially love that this story is set during New Testament times.

I found it easy to connect with Cassandra with enjoyed witnessing her development throughout the story. Her journey from resistance to transformation is both moving and emotional. I can only imagine what it was like during this traumatic time and to witness the suffering that believers endured. Although I was aware of the persecution of Christians during Nero’s reign, witnessing these events unfold in the story made them feel even more real.

While I recommend reading the previous books in this series first, this one stands well on its own. However, be aware that it may contain spoilers if read before the others.

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

I have enjoyed this series that has shown the early Christians and what they faced in Rome and other areas occupied by the Romans. I liked how in this book we saw people from the previous books so up and that everything culminated in Rome. I liked learning more about this time period. I also liked seeing the faith of these people even when it lead to their deaths. I liked how we seeing people change as they learned about Christ and what he taught. I thought the author did a good job of telling these stories of the early Christians.

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.

Angela Hunt is one of my favorite authors. She has written so many amazing books. Her Biblical fiction bring readers right into the heart and action of the stories God has shared with us in His Word. Her character depth and development bring the setting, emotion, and actions of the time to life. I couldn't put this one down. I was looking forward to it after reading Sisters of Corinth last year. I highly recommend this book, series and author. The Daughter of Rome presents an emotional journey and an authentic, beautiful depiction of strong faith and the spreading gospel of the early church.

This was my first “Emissaries” book and although it took me a couple chapters to get into the story line and characters; once I did, I couldn’t stop reading! Each book can be read as a stand alone story.

I loved reading all the fascinating biblical events, along with historical Roman events. I learned alot about the culture and time period but I wasn’t prepared with how emotional and heartbreaking this story would be.

I really liked the main characters Hadrian and his Senator father, along with Calandara and her father the sculptor. The author did an amazing job vividly describing the time period, people and their day to day life.

This book was truly amazing, emotional, and kept me engaged until the very end. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.

This was a delightful story and kept me reading from the opening pages! I didn't want to put this one down, as it took me on a sweeping and emotional ride of a story.

Calandra's life isn't an easy one, but becoming a Christian isn't for the fainthearted either. In this dangerous and quickly changing world, we see a glimpse of what early Christians faced during one of the darkest times in church history. The reign of Nero is often talked about in passing, but this story helps shed a little more light on it, making this tumultuous historical period the backdrop for this gripping story. I loved how it added to the sense of danger and ultimately hope as Calandra learns what it means to be a Christian, when everything around her seems to be violently against everything they stand for.

The story provides a powerful reminder of the challenges and some of the difficulties faced by early Christians and the disciples of Jesus only a generation or so after His Ascension. This story was a wonderful read, and a gripping tale, that also reminds readers of just how precious our faith in Christ really is.

The infamous fire of Rome during the reign of Nero is the incendiary backdrop for Angela Hunt’s newest novel, The Daughter of Rome. As readers delve into the pages, they are transported to the bustling streets of ancient Rome, where the vibrant sights of grandiose buildings and busy marketplaces come alive. With attention to detail, Hunt immerses readers in the sensory tapestry of first-century Roman culture. With each turn of the page, you can almost feel the warmth of the fire and the tragic aftermath that doesn’t leave the heart untouched as you explore this captivating journey through history.

Packed with subplots and historical accuracy bringing the past to life, The Daughter of Rome is both informative and intriguing. Sparks fly between the two main characters, Calandra and Hadrian, at the very start of the book. Class difference is only one of many obstacles they face as their lives are turned upside down in the wake of tragedy. A scandalous encounter twists the plot in unexpected ways that are as messy as life itself.

The themes weaving through the novel shed light on the difficulties of navigating life when faith is anchored to false gods. Through the challenges of unforeseen circumstances and the consequences of bad choices, the characters traverse a treacherous path toward faith in the one true God. With so many spiritual takeaways, one that truly resonated with me was how beautifully God redeems the worst of our mistakes. Any reader of historical fiction won’t want to miss this one.

I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have read several books from this author. Her ability to capture a Biblical story and make it come to life is exceptional. You can feel every emotion as the characters draw you in to each scene. Calander is an epic character who helps her father sculpt a bust of a Roman senator. I wonder how they are able to create such an esteem sculpture? There is an attraction between Calander and Hadrian. Since they are from different backgrounds, their relstionship is frowned upon on.

The fire was epic and finds Calander and her father fleeing for safety. That must have been so scary as they race for their lives. Where will they end up? Filled with a beautiful Christian theme, this story will find you engrossed until the very end.

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

“I am a daughter of Rome,” I said, “so I will trust the gods of Rome for my future.”

I’ve been waiting 9 months ( half of forever!) for this book!! Third in The Emissaries series by Angela Hunt, The Daughter of Rome does answer the questions from the second book, The Sisters of Corinth. However, the main characters are not the same, and there is enough back story provided to let a first-time reader enjoy the book, too. Still, the completed storyline is richer if the secondary characters are already your friends.

Callandra is a young woman , yet unmarried, who lives with her widowed and accomplished sculptor father. Callandra assists her father in his work and also paints the sculptures.

Having read book two, I was certain that, as this novel occurs in the time of Nero and great persecution, it could be a hard book to read. It is, but it is also so compelling, romantic, and chock-ful of history and Bible passages, too! And, so worth it!!

(A side note, there seem to be some parallels to the time of Elijah and the persecution of followers of God under Ahab and Jezebel. )

Callandra and her father are hired to sculpt a bust of a leading Roman senator. When he is pleased with the result, he hires Callandra and her father to produce an auspicious work. In their dealings, Callandra meets the senator’s compassionate and kind son, Hadrian. While a mutual attraction develops, any romance between the two is impossible because one is a patrician and one, a plebeian.

And then, the great fire of Rome occurs and changes all of their lives. The fire sends Callandra and her father fleeing across the river for their lives. One group of people is welcoming. The same group that Hadrian, by his father’s command, keeps under house arrest unless they will change their beliefs.

It is so beautiful to see the way both the Jewish and Greek Christians freely love, share, and witness. Their generosity in all areas attracts and effects change in many. Many try to reason with Callandra, who is embittered by the losses caused by the fire. “When I had sight, I was blind to the Creator of the world, but as a blind man I began to glimpse His hand. Now I see Him working every day.” But Callandra hangs on to her Roman gods.

As Nero looks for scapegoats for the fire, the Christians make a convenient target. This was especially hard to read, as many of these are now people I think of as friends. The Christians could hold strong, because they believed, “Death is not our enemy; it is a journey to Adonai.” The question becomes, though, as these Christians remain faithful, does God see? Was He watching over these? What response will Callandra, Hadrian, and others who moved and interacted among these people have? Which gods or God will prove to love the people and care for them?

My fave secondary characters were many. Priscilla, Petros, and Mariana and Marcus from the previous book.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“I am not the man I used to be, and my life is no longer my own.”

“Don’t ask for Adonai’s will, I wanted to shout, and promise you’ll do something for him if he does something for you. But Adonai did not operate like the Roman gods. Adonai demanded that his followers surrender everything to his control.”

“Adonai does not live to serve us. We live to serve Him.”

“Adonai always preserves a remnant. Always.”

“I prayed for Adonai to change my poor eyes, and He changed me instead.”

“Art was about more than size. Art was about beauty and design and its ability to provoke thought .”

“And I am content to remain in whatever state Nero confines me, for Adonai rules over kings and emperors.”

The author masterfully brought this captivating time period to life as we witness Nero’s Rome with its opulence and also its barbaric treatment of those who follow the Messiah. The main character grapples with this unsettling contrast amid other trials in her personal life. The realistic characters leap off the pages and into the readers’ minds and hearts. The engaging plot keeps them tuned in and anticipating or even dreading what might happen next. You can feel the inner struggles and challenges they face. I have not read other books in this series but have read other books by this prolific author. You can sense the research she put into the background and setting of this biblical time tale of life. We also see familiar characters from Scripture such as Peter, Paul, and Aquila and Priscilla. The novel would make a great addition to church libraries and a fine one for book clubs to discuss. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #TheDaughterofRome #NetGalley

After enjoying Angela Hunt’s first two books in The Emmissaries series, I had been anticipating the release of Daughter of Rome. Finally, the wait is over! What a story. I didn’t want to put it down when I had to; it made a good opportunity to practice self-control.

Many themes are explored in Daughter of Rome. It’s hard to know what to say and what will be a spoiler! There is romance in the story, but it is a minor theme. The effects of sexual sin on a woman are explored somewhat. Friendship is a major theme—and how God can use friendship to bring people to Himself. Another theme I noticed was how persecution, rather than causing people to avoid the Gospel, actually spread it.
Daughter of Rome is a vivid picture of life in Rome under the emperor Nero. As I read about the fire that destroyed large portions of the city, I could almost feel and smell it, and could definitely feel the horror and desperation. (As a side note, I’m glad I read this book before we lost a small building to fire recently—it would have triggered some intense feelings inside me!) I was struck by the vast gulf between the rich and the poor in Rome, between the patricians and the plebians. It was also fascinating to read about the process of constructing a sculpture. I enjoyed seeing Calandra and her father working together on a masterpiece.
I would not say that this is one of the best books I’ve read that was set in Bible times, but I did appreciate the way the times of the Apostles was brought to life. I like the whole series for that reason, and recommend it to anyone who enjoys learning about the past through stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
WARNING: Chapter 9: Fire, people burning and dying. Chapter 12: Immorality—off page, becomes obvious later what happened. Chapter 13: Reference to previous chapter’s scene. Chapter 14: Woman thinks about results of sleeping with a man. Chapter 15: Mention of prostitute. Chapter 18: Bones of abandoned infants. Chapter 24: Woman in labor. Chapter 37: Many people martyred in the arena, in various ways. Chapter 38: Sacrifice of an animal, more people killed in the arena. Chapter 40: Man remembering seeing people being killed, mention of Nero marrying a boy.

This is book three of The Emissaries series. Biblical fiction is, of course, one of my favourite genre and this one does not disappoint! It’s set in Nero’s crazy days when everything was uncertain and Christians were persecuted so intensely. The story centers around a young Roman idol worshipping woman, named Calandra who lives with her father. They are gifted artistically and soon are given a challenge by Senator Lucius Cronus to create a statue of Nero. In order to do so, she needs to get updates and checkups though his son, Hadrian, and as time goes on they form a huge bond. In addition, Calandra is blessed to meet many Christians who help her as she navigates her unknown path. You may learn some new historical facts of Biblical times. There were many bible scriptures that were quoted which I greatly enjoyed.
I look forward to reading more from this author and I believe you will enjoy this adventurous and interesting 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.

Hunt masterfully brought ancient Rome and several of its famous historical characters to life. I felt like I was right there with Calandra, working alongside her and her father, and walking through the streets with Peter and Paul.

I enjoyed the previous two books from Angela Hunt's The Emissaries series, The Woman from Lydia and The Sisters of Corinth, and was excited to get my hands on the third installment, The Daughter of Rome. I believe one is my favorite of the three. The author does not hold back on historical details to bring this story to life. I loved seeing her vision of how Calandra lived and felt like I was part of it.

The Daughter of Rome 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 am hoping that there will be more to come The Emissaries series.


I received a paperback copy of Angell Hunt's The Daughter of Rome from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

The Daughter of Rome by Angela Hunt is a masterpiece, a gripping exploration of faith under fire. This book is a relentless emotional ride that questions what it truly means to live and die for Christ.

Set in the perilous heart of Nero’s Rome, the novel brings to life a world of persecution, sacrifice, and devotion that echoes deeply with anyone who’s ever wondered what they would do in the face of unimaginable suffering, hardship, and persecution. Through Calandra, a woman torn between the world she knows and a group of Christians she’s only beginning to understand, we see the staggering cost of following the One true God in a world that demands loyalty to its idols. The ancient Roman backdrop is a character in its own right, its streets, temples, and smoky skies echoing the deep clash of cultures, beliefs, and souls that defines this story.

What struck me most was the authenticity of the Christian faith woven throughout the story. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s breathtaking. One particular scene lingers in my heart—when Calandra watches the Christians, including an aged rabbi, stand firm in the face of persecution. His unwavering faith and courageous bravery are an inspiration, and through her eyes, we see how the beauty of that kind of trust in God can break even the hardest heart. “I sat with the weeping believers, brokenhearted and amazed at the faithfulness of the aged rabbi… his earnestness, zeal, and bravery deeply impressed me.” These words hit me hard because they reflect the very essence of the book: faith that endures, faith that conquers.

Angela Hunt’s writing is nothing short of phenomenal. The pacing is perfectly balanced, allowing the reader to absorb the weight of each moment, while the vivid descriptions of Nero’s Rome transport you directly into the heart of the ancient world. I could almost smell the ash from the great fire, feel the tremors of fear, and hear the cries of the martyrs. Yet, amid all the heart-wrenching loss and brutal persecution, there is also hope—a hope rooted in something eternal and unshakeable.

The Christian themes here are powerful and striking. I was especially moved by the questions Calandra wrestles with: “Who is Adonai?” “Why did He protect them, and not us?” These were not just questions asked by a fictional character; they were questions that stirred my own soul, forcing me to reflect on the depth of God’s sovereignty and the eternal truth that He is the only God worthy of worship.

The stakes in The Daughter of Rome are impossibly high, and the characters are so richly drawn that I couldn’t help but feel deeply invested in their journeys. This story will challenge you, make you think, and leave you questioning: What would I do?

Ultimately, this novel is about the unfathomable courage it takes to choose Christ over all else. As the characters face danger, death, and loss, the profound message rings clear: "We believe Adonai is the only God worthy of worship, so we cannot bow before any other. To do so would be a lie." In a world that worships so many things, this book forces us to consider what—who—we will bow to.

The Daughter of Rome is a journey of faith, hope, and sacrifice that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Angela Hunt has crafted a powerful story that will take you through the fiery streets of ancient Rome and through the fiery depths of the human soul.

It’s a book that challenges, encourages, and deeply moves you. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates faith-filled historical fiction that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact on the heart.

I received a digital ARC of this book from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

This was my first time reading this author's work. I appreciated how she skillfully wove historical facts throughout the plot and incorporated biblical characters. I learned so much about Nero, the Roman empire, and the persecution of Christians during that time. The author's descriptions were colorful and vivid, allowing me to envision the story easily. In fact, some portions (particularly the martyrdom of the Christians) were detailed and heart-wrenching enough that I would caution against it being read by children or early teens.

Much of the book is from the perspective of a pagan Roman girl who worshipped many gods. I thought the author did well with portraying her pagan lifestyle and beliefs without condoning them. Had I read the previous books in this series, I imagine the book would have had a deeper meaning to me, but I still enjoyed it as a stand-alone book. I will be looking for other books by this author!

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via LibraryThing and NetGalley. The following is my honesty review.

5 Stars

Angela Hunt delivered yet another impressive novel. I haven't read the first two books of the series, but I could easily follow the characters and storyline. The author did a phenomenal job of bringing ancient history to life. I loved the descriptions of everyday people and how they lived. I could easily picture what the streets looked like in Nero's Rome.

The characters seemed like real people - and Nero creeped me out! Due to some gruesome, yet realistic, depictions of violence, I recommend for ages 17 and up.

I was really excited to see this book and knew that I had to read it! Angela never disappoints.
I really loved Angela's new story.
I finished it in two days.
I loved all the historical details that were brought to life.
I appreciated how each character was well rounded out.
I also learned a lot too.
I simply couldn't put this story down!
This would be a wonderful Easter story for this year.
I did NOT like Nero. A very selfish man.
Calandra is a very brave lady. I enjoyed in getting to know her.
I didn't want this novel to end! So very good.
5 stars for keeping me interested throughout the whole book.
Many interesting thing happen along the way. I loved this journey of Calanda.
I stayed up late to finish this story. It's one I won't soon forget.
I highly recommend this beautiful book.
My thanks to Interviews and Reviews for a copy of this book via Netgalley through Bethany House publishers.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

The Daughter of Rome, by Angela Hunt, is a moving biblical fiction novel set during Nero’s reign and the first persecution of Christians by the Roman government.

This book has a huge cast of characters, but our main ones are Calandra and Hadrian. Calanda works with her father, Pericles, a sculptor, and she meets Hadrian when his father orders a bronze statue of Nero. Calandra and her father worship the gods of Rome, as did Hadrian. But both have encounters with Christians that will inevitably change their lives.

The author excels at vivid descriptions and research of the era. I feel like I have met the Apostle Peter and other early disciples through her words.

This book will keep readers engaged immediately. The fire that devastates Rome and the result of Nero blaming it on Christians is the event that resulted in their persecution. The author has done a brilliant job of capturing the anguish, despair and, yes, even hope of that time.

The Daughter of Rome is a compelling read for fans of Biblical Fiction. This is a book that will stay with you long after you finish it. I cannot recommend it enough! Fans of Jill Eileen Smith and Tessa Afshar will enjoy this look at a tumultuous time in history.

I received a complimentary eBook courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley for my honest review.