 Author: Tessa Afshar Genre: Biblical Fiction Series: Queen Esther's Court #2 Pages: 368 Release Date: November 4, 2025 Publisher: Bethany House Publishers Sazana of Persia creates exquisite pottery that graces Susa's finest tables, but her master, Lord Haman, does not know her secret: Sazana is one of the Jews he has vowed to eradicate. When Haman discovers her true identity, he forces her into indentured servitude. But at Haman's sudden downfall, Queen Esther becomes the new master of the pottery workshop, restoring Sazana to her rightful place. Yet her troubles are not over as Haman's sons are enraged by his death, and the queen assigns one of her men to root out any threats. Sazana is shocked to discover the identity of the queen's agent is none other than Jadon, the man who left her heart in ruins years ago. But despite his presence, danger still lurks, and when Sazana and Jadon become entangled in the hunt for an ancient artifact, so much more than their own hearts and lives depends on the success of their mission.
 Reviewer: Kimberlee Sams The Royal Artisan by Tessa Afshar is a Christian historical novel set in Persia (present-day Iran) during the reign of Queen Esther. The author skillfully weaves in a lot of information about historical events, daily life, and the mindset of various parts of society. I enjoyed the new things I learned, and the book never felt like a history text. All the information shared was a natural and easy-to-read part of the story. I enjoyed the viewpoints of both main characters, Sazana, a talented young potter with a (secret) Jewish background, and Jadon, a palace guard who represents a second chance at romance for Sazana. Esther herself appears briefly as she shares her thoughts with the reader via the inclusion of her secret scrolls. Each had a unique perspective on the anti-Jewish policies of the time and shed a great deal of light on the topic and historical events. The slow-burn romance between Sazana and Jadon was a joy to experience. From their back-story previous interaction, throughout their present-day workplace forced proximity to navigating palace intrigue, each time the two were together made the slowly blossoming relationship more believable. Both Sazana and Jadon had their own flaws and insecurities, and it was lovely to watch as each worked through their own issues as they grew closer to the other. The author wrote the entire relationship realistically and cleverly, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about it. Queen Esther has always been one of my favorite Biblical characters, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read a second book set in the palace during her reign. The story picks up after Esther is already a queen and focuses more on palace life and intrigue after Haman’s sentencing, including the surprising continued presence of Haman’s sons at the palace. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this book and am looking forward to additional books set in Queen Esther’s Court. 5 stars. I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers, through Interviews & Reviews, for my honest opinion. Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise Another excellent story about ancient Persia and the court of Queen Esther. This time from the perspective of a potter who plays a role in the rescue of the Jewish people from evil Haman. Of course, these stories are fictional and are about fictional people, but it is fun to see what might have happened. Ms. Afshar has done a lot of research into the times and inserts a real artifact into her story. That is what Sazana and Jadon are searching for. I love a good second chance romance, and this one fits the bill. Sazana is a potter, an unusual role for a woman. She and Jadon, one of the elite guards of the royals, have an unpleasant past. But when they are thrown together to help Queen Esther, things get dangerous, and they slowly grow together again. Ms. Afshar personalizes her story of Esther with excellent details about palace life and pottery making of the era. I like the way she depicts Esther as caring, friendly and using her status as a tool for good. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone. Reviewer: Mindy Houng “The fire ultimately determined the clay’s personality. The potter’s creation could only become its true self when exposed to the harsh lick of the flames.” I loved returning to Queen Esther and King Xerxes’ Persia and seeing the Biblical story unfold from a different perspective. The third person voices of Sazana and Jadon were captivating and delightful. The first person voice of Esther some thirty-three years after the great rescue of the Jewish people was wise, charming, and thought-provoking. The juxtaposition of Sazana and Jadon’s perseverance during the time of the decree and Esther’s memories of that time period added layers and depth to the story of Esther as we know it. I loved learning about pottery making and the amazing creativity and endurance needed to create such vessels. Jadon’s work as the head of Esther’s security gave me a new understanding of the protection the queen needed during this tumultuous time. I enjoyed the intrigue and mystery involving the cylinder of Cyrus. Sazana’s rise above the grief and heart-breaking circumstances of her life made her a remarkable heroine. Jadon’s loyalty, fierce protectiveness, tenderness and intelligence made him a worthy hero. This book will transport you to the heart of Persia, where love and beauty dwell alongside hatred and betrayal. The setting, the characters, and the plot will completely surround you and allow you to live with a master potter and the chief royal guard as history is written by the Hand of the Almighty. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own. Reviewer: Linda Klager I wanted to read this book because I enjoy biblical fiction, and Tessa Afshar is a great author. She researches and writes a fabulous book. Before each chapter, there are quotes from the Holy Bible. And the queen also has input every so often. That really brings the story to life, and the words flow smoothly. Sazana is a very talented potter. She creates beautiful and unusual items, and people in this area are very delighted with her skills. One day, a hateful man tells her she will continue to make lovely items, but not get paid for her work. He had a vendetta against certain people. Sazana’s ancestors began the art of being potters, and Sazana was very careful not to ruin her family’s history. Sazana had a sweetheart, but that relationship ended. She and Jadon still cared for each other. There was a mystery in this story that threatened Sazana and her place of business. She and Jadon, plus the queen, tried to find out the source of this danger. If you have not read the book of Esther in the Holy Bible, you would be astonished and awed by what happened. I highly recommend that you read it. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.  Reviewer: Conny Withay “Sazana of Persia creates exquisite pottery that graces Susa’s finest tables, but her master, Lord Haman, does not know her secret: Sazana is one of the Jews he has vowed to eradicate,” the online description states regarding Tessa Afshar’s novel, The Royal Artisan. The second book in the Queen Esther’s Court series, this 368-page historical Christian advanced reader copy targets those interested in a fictionalized account surrounding the biblical story in the Old Testament. With no profanity, topics of illness, injury, murder, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. Using the English Standard Version of the Holy Bible, the NIV and NLT are also referenced. The ending includes the author’s note, ten discussion questions, acknowledgments, a teaser about the final book in the series, and the author’s biography. Twenty-three-year-old artisan Sazana can relate to her Persian queen: she’s young, an orphan, and one who must rely on God to save her and her people. Although Sazana does not wield royal power, she creates highly demanded, unique pottery at her wheel. When Lord Haman learns the female potter is the key to uncovering the decades-old Cyprus cylinder that proves the Jews’ safety, Sazana must rely not only on Esther but also on the Immortal who abruptly cancelled their betrothal five years ago. The story of Queen Esther has always been a favorite of mine. This novel includes fictionalized Sazana and Jadon, as it promotes God’s destiny while He refines us by the fires of life. I appreciate the details of pottery making and comparing it to how the Lord molds us to be His vessels. The sensitivity of the queen and befriending the couple were tender yet realistic. Although the two protagonists dealt with their pasts in different ways, they learned from each other. Those who know the account of Esther in the Bible may not approve of the made-up characters who enhanced the story or the concept of the lost Cyprus cylinder. Some may not care for the reliance on the Almighty, yet it is always important. At times, I had trouble deciphering who was speaking. I wish more novels were written that promoted the Word of God and what it teaches in a venue that is Biblically related. I prefer all pronouns of God capitalized for reverence. If you are looking for creative storytelling using a potter who relates to Queen Esther when a stand has to be made, this second in the series molds how we are God’s own design, not His flaws. Thanks to Bethany House and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review. Reviewer: Lori Parrish
I loved this one! Biblical stories are my 2nd favorite to read. In this one, I’ve learned much about pottery and the lovely lady who does it. We also get to know Queen Esther and Xerxes a lot better! Too bad not all kings and queens could be like them. Especially Esther, who is brave and compassionate toward her people. I love how she takes the time to get to know them and help them out. I didn’t want this one to end. It was so worth it to lose sleep over it. Sazana and Esther wouldn’t let me finish this book until I found out all their secrets. My heart was left feeling full and satisfied. I was NOT one bit disappointed. Afshar really knows her stuff! I always look forward to her next book. 5 stars for a job well done. I highly recommend. I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley, for my honest opinion. Leave a Reply. |
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