Crushed Hopes and Hopeful Beginnings by Carol Ashby Review

 

Crushed Hopes and Hopeful Beginnings by Carol Ashby was my first book by this author and it sure whet my appetite to read more of her books set in early church history. I’ve been told that her books are stand alone stories though there are connections between them, so I will probably start with her first published book and read them in the order they were published. But, this book is a novella that sets the stage for her next full-length novel which releases in 2024.

The main character is Lusario, who is a slave. He is loyal to his master, but finds himself being sold to a horrid master who treats him abysmally. But, that’s okay, because according to the law, he is just property. He had such plans when with his previous master, and was looking at one day being able to buy his freedom. Suddenly that future is taken from him. But, he has a friend, Timon, also a slave, who is secretly a Christian, and has been encouraging him. And also challenging him to think about the truths of Jesus and Christianity. 

I loved that he would question and Timon would give answers. And then events come about that lead Lusario on a better path. And then there is the philosophical question of who he has to thank for this.

I loved learning more about the Roman Empire back in early church history, and about Alexandria in Egypt (part of the Roman Empire) where the majority of this story takes place.

I can’t wait for the next book to see where their friendship will lead and to see what Lusario does with this information about Jesus.

I really enjoyed this book and recommend it if you are a fan of stories taking place during the times of the early church or in ancient Rome.