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    Land of Silence
    Land of Silence
    Land of Silence
    Audiobook10 hours

    Land of Silence

    Written by Tessa Afshar

    Narrated by Suzy Jackson

    4.5/5

    ()

    About this audiobook

    Before Christ called her daughter . . . Before she stole healing by touching the hem of his garment . . . Elianna is a young girl crushed by guilt. After her only brother is killed while in her care, Elianna tries to earn forgiveness by working for her father's textile trade and caring for her family. When another tragedy places Elianna in sole charge of the business, her talent for design brings enormous success, but never the absolution she longs for. As her world unravels, she breaks off her betrothal to the only man she will ever love. Then illness strikes, isolating Elianna from everyone, stripping everything she has left. No physician can cure her. No end is in sight. Until she hears whispers of a man whose mere touch can heal. After so many years of suffering and disappointment, is it possible that one man could redeem the wounds of body . . . and soul?
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherRecorded Books, Inc.
    Release dateMay 1, 2016
    ISBN9781501923845
    Land of Silence
    Author

    Tessa Afshar

    TESSA AFSHAR’s books have been on Publishers Weekly, CBA, and ECPA bestseller lists and have been translated into many languages. Her Bible study, The Way Home: God’s Invitation to New Beginnings, won the ECPA Christian Book of the Year in the Bible Study category. Tessa’s novels have been the recipient of the ECPA’s Bronze Milestone, Christy, and INSPY Awards. She holds a master of divinity from Yale, where she was elected to serve as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship for one year. Tessa is a devoted wife, a mediocre gardener, and an enthusiastic cook of biblical recipes. Learn more at TessaAfshar.com.

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    Reviews for Land of Silence

    4.5/5

    120 ratings18 reviews

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    • 5/5
      This was one of those stories that you really didn’t want to end! So much loss, so much heartache, so much love! These characters were well developed and were so interesting! I highly recommend this book!

      1 person found this helpful

    • 5/5
      I was a bit skeptical throughout the first half or so of book, thinking the author had taken too much “ literary license” and not imagining how she could turn the story enough to bring the 12 years of bleeding into a believable conclusion. However, her writing style, with many “cliff hanging” moments, kept me riveted to the end!

      1 person found this helpful

    • 5/5
      This book is so powerful and lovely. The reader is awesome too.

      1 person found this helpful

    • 5/5
      I know of no other modern author who breaths such life , humanity and God’s spirit into the the stories and truths of the Bible.

      1 person found this helpful

    • 3/5
      Good character development/characterization. Very nice ending but up until that point the main character endures an endless stream of misery and has a very frustrating train of reasoning and poor communication of her feelings/circumstances with those she loves that could resolve many issues. I suppose we can all be that way about our own struggles, but I thought there was a bit too much calamity after calamity. I started to find myself depressed listening to it. It did have a largely redeeming ending though. Worth listening to still but my least favorite from this author. I have loved her other books.
    • 3/5
      Not my favorite book by this author. I simply don't relate to the main character. She drives me a little crazy. Her choices, beliefs, and stubbornness are irrational at times. The scenes of drama are repetitive, and every time, the main character makes similar mistakes. Thankfully, the end of the book was finally a little more enjoyable.
    • 5/5
      You just simply make the story in the Bible come to life. I loved the whole story.....and got a chuckle out of the "old lady of 34" My how times have changed. Every book of yours I have read (or had heard to me while working} is a real joy. Keep up the great work you`re doing!!!
    • 5/5
      Wow! Just wow! If you want a book that will brutally tear out your heart with gnarled fingers, and then so tenderly and gently replace with fingertips of gold; READ THIS BOOK! Tessa Afshar knows how to capture you heart and soul.
    • 5/5
      I love historical fiction so really enjoyed the book thanks
    • 5/5
      Always enjoyable story, very uplifting! I recommend this author frequently.
    • 5/5
      I was looking for something a bit different for my morning walks when I came across the audiobook Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar. I had heard a lot of good things about this book and Afshar has never disappointed, so I decided to travel to Judea during the time of Christ while getting some exercise. I am very glad I did! This one provided a wonderful listening experience. If you are looking for Biblical fiction that will keep you engaged while making you think, then I highly recommend Land of Silence.The novel is an interpretation of the life of the woman with the issue of blood who reached out to touch Jesus’ garment. Elianna’s story begins with the tragic death of her young brother. From there Elianna struggles with guilt and feelings of unworthiness. Her life is filled with more tragic events, some that are out of her control and some that are of her own choice. But regardless of the causes, the circumstances impact her life and her relationships. The novel is written in Elianna’s first person voice, giving the reader insights into the reasons for her actions. There were some times I wanted to shake her, LOL! How many times did she resist grace and choose her own limited strength? Sounds a bit like my own life. That’s what makes Elianna a character that readers can relate to.Land of Silence is well-researched and richly detailed. The manners, customs, laws, and traditions of Judea and the Roman rulers are naturally woven throughout the novel giving the reader a glimpse into the lives of the characters. Secondary characters are well-drawn and add depth to the story. Inclusion of historical characters in the fictional framework gives the novel an authentic feel. While the novel is a fictionalized account, the what-ifs presented feel credible. In Elianna’s quest for healing, she endures a number of medical procedures that leave her worse off physically, emotionally, and financially. I found it interesting that she was willing to seek out these so-called physicians yet was reluctant to go to Jesus. It reminded me that many, including myself, will try just about anything to find relief from the trials of the world, but use God as a last resort.I am glad I chose the audio version of Land of Silence. The narrator did a great job of capturing Elianna’s personality. I felt like I was listening to a real person’s life story. This was especially effective when Elianna finally meets Jesus. The depth of gratitude and awe brought tears to my eyes.Land of Silence was a great listening experience. This book is a highly recommended read.Highly Recommended.Great for Book Clubs.Audience: adults.(I purchased the audiobook from Audible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
    • 4/5
      I enjoyed this book of Christian historical fiction. It tells the story of the woman subject to bleeding for 12 years mentioned in 3 of the Gospel accounts. Most of the details are obviously fictional as we know little about her other than her medical condition and Jesus' healing of her.

      The story was full of twists and turns and kept my interest. It was easy to read with explanations for all of the cultural issues that arose in the narrative.

      The book is mostly clean--free of bad language, there is some limited violence and a sexual assault scene but neither are graphic.

      I recommend this book for Christian readers particularly those struggling with disappointments or long term illness. There are some helpful reminders that God is in control and that His plans for us are for our good. They are woven naturally into the storyline and applied to the lives of the characters. This has the effect of making them also relevant to readers without them feeling judged or preached at!

      My only criticism was that the book felt a bit rushed at the end and was maybe a little idealistic in outcome. Also that the Gospel message could've been clearer for non-believers, maybe by including it at the end of the book. Although, I did appreciate that there was a note stating that the best way to learn what really happened was by reading the Bible itself as the true authority.
    • 5/5
      Everyone who reads Land of Silence will be happy they picked it up. It is one of the most moving stories of the bible retold as the woman is given the name Eilanna. This is about the woman in the bible that Jesus called "daughter ". It is a very moving book. All of the heartache this woman goes through but still is able to hold her faith. I loved this novel and say it is a must read. I recieved this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
    • 5/5
      I have never read this author's books before, what a shame. This book was excellent. If you enjoy Biblical history fiction you will truly enjoy this book. It was well written and edited. Editing is a major issue with me and this one was very well done. The characters were fully developed and kept your interest. You couldn't help but love the main character and wish her well. The other characters were well developed also. This books keeps you reading and wanting more. It flows very well. Never once did I feel it slowed to where I lost interest. I highly recommend this book. This book was given to me by bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
    • 5/5
      Land of Silence is a marvelously written historical novel. The woman who touches the hem of the Messiah's garment for healing comes to life at the talented hand of author Tessa Afshar. This fictional account is drawn from the Gospels and Afshar beautifully fleshes out the characters, crafting them into characters that are believable and with whom readers can connect. Elianna is the name the author gives this anonymous woman and readers are given a story of her life from childhood until the healing. Elianna is guilt-ridden because of a childhood accident, unforgiven and later betrayed by her own body; her soul had slipped into the land of silence. This is an amazing story that truly gets into the emotions and the hard life of this woman of the Scriptures. Afshar tastefully covers the illness and the sorrow and ugliness of rejection and isolation Elianna must endure while keeping the reader's attention with dynamic dialogue and a story that flows well. Land of Silence is a story of true love and forgiveness, a story of brokenness and restoration, a story you do not want to miss.I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
    • 5/5
      The book grabbed my attention from the very beginning. As Elianna and her little brother , Joseph were enjoying the outdoors, I could smell the flowers and see the beauty that surrounded them. Elianna has been entrusted by her mother to watch over her brother for the day. When something distracts her, Joseph is attacked. What attacked him? What made Elianna divert her attention from the care of her brother? The anger her father thrust at her was so well written. I applaud the author for writing such an emotional scene that made me want to tell Elianna it would be ok. I saw her standing there begging her parents to forgive her for her lack of attention to her brother. I can't inagibe what it must have felt like to feel the wrath of her father and realize you are to blame for the unfortunate accident. I loved the author telling readers what Elianna means from the Hebrew word. "Eli" which means "my God" and "Anna" which signifies " favor." What a blessed name to have which " was a sign of God's favor and grace to my parents." I'm sure that Elianna wasn't feeling favored at this time. What a burden she must be feeling now. What punishment will she receive for this terrible accident? The Pharisee believed that she will be punished for her negligence.The details of the blankets, and towels that Elianna's family made were brilliantly detailed to such a degree that I could see the women making them as they chatted with each other. The authors' knowledge of the trade is well defined as she goes into great detail . The more I read of this story, the more I realized how talented and gifted the author is. The story is a fictional account of the woman we read about in the bible with the issue of blood. I remember this story so vividly because it talked about the desperation of a woman who wanted to be healed. She believed with all her heart that Jesus would heal her. Do we have that kind of faith when we are sick or struggling with something? Elianna is the woman we read about in the bible that is afflicted with a bleeding illness. In this story she spend years and lots of money trying to find a cure for her illness. She spends a lot of time praying for healing. At a time of desperation, she travels to hear Jesus speak, thinking if she could just touch his clothing, she would be healed. She plans to touch his clothing and be healed without anyone knowing.The author has done a lot of research to make the story true to the time in history.I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs to be encouraged. The story is a reflection of healing, faith, unconditional love and the suffering that a woman endures while clinging to hope. "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace . "I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
    • 5/5
      One tragic afternoon, Elianna's brother dies while in her care, His death is only the beginning of her sorrows. Seeking redemption from her guilt, Elianna applies her talent in her father's linen manufacturing business which brings momentary success that eventually dissipates. Knowing her failures, she breaks off her betrothal to Ethan Ben Ezer, a good man and the love of her life. A bleeding illness soon strikes that depletes her body and financial resources. With no other hope, Elianna travels to see a new Jewish prophet, expecting tricks and cunning, but finds a teacher who speaks deep words to her heart. After years of suffering and illness, will she find healing for her body and soul? Read more in Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar.Land of Silence is my favorite novel by Tessa Afshar to date. Like Elianna, Tessa Afshar weaves her craft adeptly. Blending together Biblical events, tragedy, healing, romance and spiritual truths, Land of Silence, enlivens the story of the unclean, nameless woman with a bleeding disease who is mentioned in the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. There was nothing I disliked about the novel and much that I enjoyed. Having a less popular Biblical figure (compared to Mary or Esther) as the protagonist certainly elevated this book's appeal to me. Tragedy and healing gave Elianna's record depth and authenticity while humor kept it from feeling depressing. By not glossing over the hardships that Elianna endured, a deeply moving story flowed with strength and spiritual truths I found applicable to my life. Example: “Despair is an invitation to prayer. You can either sink or pray when it lodges at your door.” (Page 329) I know Land of Silence is a fictional retelling. However, after reading this book, I will never look at the Biblical account of the woman with the issue of blood the same way. I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction. Land of Silence is a stand-alone novel, but in several ways it reminded me of Tessa Afshar's Harvest of Rubies. If you liked one, you'll probably like the other. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
    • 4/5
      When I picked up Land of Silence by author Tessa Afshar, I had no idea this novel was about the now famous woman who once dared to touch the hem of Jesus's garment for healing. (Yup. Me and my habitual neglect of preliminary book blurb reading.) I only knew the novel was by this particular Biblical Fiction author, and that's all I needed to know.Afshar has such a knack and a grace for weaving these types of stories. The heroine here, Elianna, reminds me somewhat of Sarah from my favorite book by this author, Harvest of Rubies. Both Sarah and Elianna are unconventional for their time and culture, being rather educated and holding vocational positions that would normally be held by men. Even with everything in her life that makes her vulnerable, Elianna also has a spark of fire in her, and her rich and layered (back)story makes her eventual, few moments with Jesus all the more meaningful.Now, although elements like hardship and tragedy are necessary to make triumphant stories triumphant, this novel became somewhat of a downer to me. Yes, the heroine's life must be hard to give the book its substance, but with disaster upon disaster and repeating moments in the narrative rehearsing how unhappy Elianna is and all the reasons why, her rather constant sorrow became a little tiresome to me. (Gee, I know that sounds callous.) Then after all of the grief and pain, the sweeping and effusive resolution of it all—for there's much to resolve—borders on being overdone, almost too sweet and perfect.Still, overall, it's an engaging and moving read, certain to touch the hearts of many Christian Fiction readers.______________Tyndale House provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.