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I won this book in a Goodreads.com Giveaway and have finally had a chance to finish it. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Tessa was very believable as she tried to keep hope alive even against all the pain she's been through with life. The story was well paced and had a bit of a mystery to it but it seemed a bit...preachy.

I'm not against God being in books I read or characters finding their way but it just seemed shoe-horned into the book. It didn't make me hate the book but I do admit to skimming in two different chapters when I felt things were being laid on really heavy. ( )

Set in ancient Rhodes, where the Colossus - the largest statue of that time and one of the ancient wonders of the world - once stood. The Statue serves as a place for the main character, Tessa, to run to when she is in turmoil and needs a place to think. She even plans to take her own life there, for her life as a Hetaira means that she can be bought and sold, even though she is prized for her wit and serves as a companion to an influential man. Tessa longs for freedom and when chance seems to deliver it into her hands she is determined to take it. Meanwhile a mysterious stranger called Nikos appears in Rhodes and seems determined to infiltrate himself into their household. Will he be a help or a temptation and a hindrance? Tessa must decide as time quickly passes - for as the chapter headings tell the reader, an earthquake will soon change the lives of everyone in Rhodes forever.
I enjoyed the historical aspects of this book and the depiction of Greek and Jewish culture and customs. Sometimes the story seems too far fetched for me, however. I'd rate it as an average Christian fiction read, and suggest it if someone really likes historical settings. It's the first of a series where the author writes about each of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. So there will be more to read if you like this one. ( )

Tracy brought the reader to the land of the past. The historical details and setting let me see the place and its people. The plot interwove a tail that drew me in. The timeframe, only 7 days, was packed. How did they even sleep?
The characters were real, although the hero seemed too perfect to respond so well, even in the realm of servant.
I highly question the heroines' ability to speak for a man. Her role seemed too elevated for their society, (although the premise of the book).
Tracy was able to weave it make it believable.
I appreciated the real Christian perspective, not just a hint and a prayer of a Christian book.
Will look for more of her books. ( )

I received this book in exchange for a honest review.
Isle of Shadows by Tracy L Higley
Christian READ

This is a great christian read. The author weaves christian fiction wonderfully and adds aspects of the bible in it in a unique way. The journey Tessa takes is a hard one and through it finds the true meaning of life and love. This is the first book I had the honor of reading. I'm simply amazed. I'm not a history person but I loved Tessa's story. The author was amazing at the descriptions and the visualization you encounter in this book. I love how the author gives us a little surprise in the end with a biblical reference to one of Jesus' followers.

From the very first page the author takes you back to a time before Christ in the land of Rhodes, where we learn about Rhodes most respected hetera, Tessa of Delios. Tessa is in a world not of her own choosing and is forced to be a slave in many respects. She longs to be free from men and their possessive needs. When an accident threatens to leave Tessa in line for death, Simeon and Nikos become her ally in this deadly game of politics and power. Can she trust them when she has hardened her heart to love and trust? This journey with Tessa is a emotional one that has hurt and grief that transforms to love and acceptance of God's greater picture. I give this book a 5 star review! ( )