Picture a storyteller who spun tales of ancient biblical heroes with a modern heartbeat—meet Tessa Afshar! This award-winning author of biblical and historical fiction weaves faith, redemption, and romance into stories that transport readers to the dusty streets of first-century Corinth or the opulent courts of Persia. Born in Iran and shaped by a global journey, Tessa’s novels resonate with readers seeking hope and heart in the past.
With a Master of Divinity from Yale and a knack for breathing life into scripture, Tessa has become a beloved voice in Christian fiction. Her books, translated into 12 languages, have topped bestseller lists and earned prestigious awards. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable storyteller.
The Making of Tessa Afshar
Tessa Afshar was born in Iran to a nominally Muslim family, spending her first 14 years immersed in a vibrant Middle Eastern culture. After her parents’ divorce, she moved to England at 14, where she navigated the challenges of a girls’ boarding school. There, she fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë, sparking a passion for storytelling. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties became a pivotal moment, redirecting her life’s path.
Settling in the United States, Tessa pursued a Master of Divinity at Yale Divinity School, where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship. After nearly two decades in women’s and prayer ministries, she turned to writing full-time, channeling her faith and multicultural background into novels that bridge ancient history and modern hearts.
Tessa Afshar’s Unforgettable Stories
Tessa’s novels are a masterful blend of historical accuracy, vivid characters, and spiritual depth. Her debut, Pearl in the Sand (2010), reimagines the story of Rahab, a Canaanite woman whose faith transforms her life. This novel, which won the ECPA’s Bronze Milestone Sales Award, set the stage for Tessa’s signature style: richly detailed settings, emotionally complex characters, and themes of redemption.
Other standout works include Harvest of Rubies (2012), a Christy Award finalist that follows a female scribe in the Persian court, and Land of Silence (2016), named one of Library Journal’s top five Christian fiction titles of the year. Daughter of Rome (2020) brings to life Priscilla and Aquila, early church leaders, with a gripping mix of romance and intrigue. Tessa’s ability to humanize biblical figures while exploring universal struggles—love, forgiveness, and purpose—has earned her accolades like the Christy and INSPY Awards.
Her writing shines for its accessibility, blending action, humor, and heartache. Whether depicting the bustling markets of Corinth in Thief of Corinth or the quiet courage of Ruth in In the Field of Grace, Tessa crafts stories that feel both timeless and timely, appealing to readers of all backgrounds.
Why Tessa Afshar Matters
Tessa Afshar’s impact extends beyond her page-turning plots. Her novels offer a fresh lens on biblical stories, making them relatable for modern readers. By centering strong, flawed, and faithful women, she highlights the transformative power of grace, resonating with those grappling with their own journeys. Her multicultural perspective enriches her work, bridging cultural divides and inviting readers to see scripture through diverse eyes.
Fans praise her for bringing the Bible to life, with authors like Francine Rivers lauding her ability to pack action and intrigue into historical settings. Her books, translated globally, have inspired countless readers to explore faith and find hope in their own stories, cementing her legacy in Christian fiction.
About Tessa Afshar
- Born: Iran, raised in England and the United States
- Key Works: Pearl in the Sand, Harvest of Rubies, Land of Silence, Daughter of Rome
- Awards: Christy Award, INSPY Award, ECPA Christian Book Award
- Education: Master of Divinity, Yale Divinity School
Snag Pearl in the Sand or Daughter of Rome and dive into Tessa Afshar’s captivating world of biblical fiction!