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Cover of Before the King

Before the King

  • Fiction
  • Publisher: Bethany House (Baker Publishing Group)
  • Published: 2025

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Publisher's Description

"Heather Kaufman is a truly fresh voice in biblical fiction."--TESSA AFSHAR, bestselling author "A beautifully told and imagined story of secrets, faith, love, and devotion. With a compelling plot and cast of characters, Before the King is a tale not to be missed."--TOSCA LEE, New York Times bestselling author Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love. Years later, Joanna is forever changed when a rabbi comes preaching a new kingdom and healing the sick. As she contributes to his ministry, Joanna treads a perilous path between a court that mocks Jesus of Nazareth, disciples who view her with suspicion, and a husband who guards his own secrets. With pressure increasing on all sides, Joanna must decide where her allegiances lie and protect her relationship to the Christ, whose message is as compelling as it is dangerous.


Endorsements (5)

“In Before the King, Heather Kaufman presents a moving tale of two sisters, one of whom has a front-row view of Jesus’ ministry and crucifixion. Joanna’s story is a reminder that God does use ordinary people in extraordinary ways . . . if they are willing.”

Angela Hunt

“Heather Kaufman gives us a biblical story with a heart for today’s world, pulling out an array of joy and hope, sorrow and loss. Ultimately, this book consumed me with absolute delight. . . . Up from Dust is a ray of hope for every Martha who seeks and follows Jesus.”

Mesu Andrews

“Up from Dust is a story of struggle, of old family hurts that haunt life for aching years. Ultimately, this novel pits our unhealed wounds against the hope that only Jesus can offer. Heather Kaufman is a truly fresh voice in biblical fiction with great promise.”

Tessa Afshar

“Up from Dust invites us into Jesus’ inner circle with fresh insight on the life of Martha of Bethany. Taking us on an intriguing journey through heartbreak and healing, this strong debut from Heather Kaufman leads readers directly to the joy of the empty tomb.”

Connilyn Cossette

“Praise for Before the King “A beautifully told and imagined story of secrets, faith, love, and devotion. With a compelling plot and cast of characters, Before the King is a tale not to be missed.”

Tosca Lee

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