The Queen's Handmaid by Tracy L. Higley

 About the book: From the servant halls of Cleopatra's Egyptian palace to the courts of Herod the Great, Lydia will serve two queens to see prophecy fulfilled.

Alexandria, Egypt 39 BC

Orphaned at birth, Lydia was raised as a servant in Cleopatra's palace, working hard to please while keeping everyone at arm's length. She's been rejected and left with a broken heart too many times in her short life.

But then her dying mentor entrusts her with secret writings of the prophet Daniel and charges her to deliver this vital information to those watching for the promised King of Israel. Lydia must leave the nearest thing she's had to a family and flee to Jerusalem. Once in the Holy City, she attaches herself to the newly appointed king, Herod the Great, as handmaid to Queen Mariamme.

Trapped among the scheming women of Herod's political family---his sister, his wife, and their mothers---and forced to serve in the palace to protect her treasure, Lydia must deliver the scrolls before dark forces warring against the truth destroy all hope of the coming Messiah.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uKKQP

About the Author: Tracy L. Higley started her first novel at age eight and has been hooked on writing ever since. She has authored many novels, including Garden of Madness and So Shines the Night. Tracy is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Ancient History and has traveled through Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Italy, researching her novels and falling into adventures. 

See Tracy's travel journals and more at: tracyhigley.com

Margie's Comments: The Queen's Handmaid is the latest in author Tracy L. Higley's ancient historical fiction books. As always, this newest book reflects the author's meticulous research that brings the story world alive, peopled with authentic, if fictional, characters. Lydia's courage to do what is right and speak her mind is evident right from the start. In spite of her ignorance of her past and origins, she is loyal to her mentor in Alexandria, and she strives to fulfill his dying request even in the turmoil and intrigues of Herod the Great's court. I love how the themes of God's faithfulness and love are portrayed throughout the book, as His hand is seen in the orchestration of His plan to keep hope alive in the face of insurmountable obstacles, from human and the spiritual forces of wickedness. As Lydia learns of her heritage she gains even more inner courage and strength to carry out the purposes for which God has created her. As I read, I was reminded that God never wastes anything in the lives of His children, and He will preserve those who follow Him. Another excellent read from this author, one I can highly recommend, especially those who enjoy historical mystery and intrigue.