Bringing the Bible to Life Through Story: Tessa Afshar on The Royal Artisan and Writing Biblical Fiction (E179)

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In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Tessa Afshar. Tessa’s award-winning novels have been on Publishers Weekly and CBA bestseller lists and have been translated into 13 languages. Winner of the ECPA Bronze Milestone award, the Christy, the INSPY, and the ECPA Christian Book Award for her Bible study, The Way Home. Tessa holds a Master of Divinity from Yale, where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship for one year. Born in the Middle East to a nominally Muslim family, Tessa converted to Christianity in her twenties. She is a devoted wife, a mediocre gardener, and an enthusiastic cook of biblical recipes. 

We talked about the power of deep connections and how books can be a bridge to those relationships. Tessa shared how recreating biblical recipes has helped her bring her stories to life in new and meaningful ways. We also discussed how biblical fiction can make scripture feel more relatable and give readers something to strive for in their own lives. I especially loved her reflection:

“I am more than what I do—and that is enough. I can rest in that.”

Tessa also shared about her series on Queen Esther, her experiences growing up in the Middle East, and the way literature was taught there. We’re here today to dive into her latest novel, The Royal Artisan. 

Episode Highlights:

• Using books as a tool for connection and spiritual growth.
• Cooking biblical recipes and bringing ancient stories to life.
• Finding rest and identity beyond productivity.
• Writing about Queen Esther and exploring courage in faith.
• Growing up in the Middle East and the role of literature in shaping worldview.

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• Buy Tessa’s books

Show Notes

Some links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.

Books and authors mentioned in the episode:

• Leo Tolstoy books
• Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
• My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Book Flight

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
• Embergold by Rachelle Nelson
• Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay

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