The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd, author of The Secret Life of Bees, is historical fiction based on the life Ana, the wife that Monk Kidd imagines Jesus may have had. I found this novel fascinating, well written and the story immediately pulled me in-I couldn’t put it down! Who is to say for sure whether or not Jesus had a wife? If he did, I can think of no better person than Ana, a true scholar in her own right, who also happens to be the sister of Judas.

Grounded in a great deal of research, this book transported me to another time and place that most of us are familiar with, but this time it is filled with strong, intelligent women whose voices demand to be heard. I’d expect nothing less from Monk Kidd. A great read.