Queen Esther’s Court: Book 2
Publication Date: November 4, 2025
Sazana of Persia creates exquisite pottery that graces Susa’s finest tables, but her master, Lord Haman, does not know her secret: Sazana is one of the Jews he has vowed to eradicate. When Haman discovers her true identity, he forces her into indentured servitude. But at Haman’s sudden downfall, Queen Esther becomes the new master of the pottery workshop, restoring Sazana to her rightful place.
Yet her troubles are not over as Haman’s sons are enraged by his death, and the queen assigns one of her men to root out any threats. Sazana is shocked to discover the identity of the queen’s agent is none other than Jadon, the man who left her heart in ruins years ago. But despite his presence, danger still lurks, and when Sazana and Jadon become entangled in the hunt for an ancient artifact, so much more than their own hearts and lives depends on the success of their mission.
Experience the thrill and intrigue of secrets and romance within Queen Esther’s royal domain in this biblical fiction tale that will appeal to fans of ancient history, The Chosen, House of David, Francine Rivers, and Angela Hunt.
A Jewish potter faces persecution in a biblical fiction tale set in Queen Esther’s court.
Author Tessa Afshar delivers the second installment of Queen Esther’s Court series with The Royal Artisan. Just like Esther, Sazana adopts a new identity in order to survive under Lord Haman’s authority.
Sazana’s faith in God, though, is strong, allowing her to navigate the threats. However, learning that Haman plans to execute all of the Jews in Persia terrifies the skilled artisan. Queen Esther intervenes on behalf of the Jews, as depicted in the Bible.
Through a series of tragedies, Sazana’s faith is tested. She teams up with a familiar face inside Esther’s court to locate a relic. Jadon’s path back into her heart requires him to trust God, too.
Just like the previous book, The Queen’s Cook, this installment features fictional heroines while reflecting Esther’s story. The series captures the time period and accurately represents the challenges experienced by the Jews.
The Royal Artisan delivers a beautiful story of faith amid adversity.
Tessa Afshar’s award-winning biblical fiction has been on Publishers Weekly, CBA, and ECPA bestseller lists and has been translated into thirteen languages. Born in the Middle East, Tessa spent her teen years in England and later moved to the United States. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life. Tessa is a devoted wife, a mediocre gardener, and an enthusiastic cook of biblical recipes.
