Jerusalem's Queen: A Novel of Salome Alexandra

Born in the small village of Modein, a town made famous by the warrior Maccabees, Salome Alexandra knows better than to harbor grand dreams for her future. She pales in comparison to her beautiful older sister, and though she learns to read at an early age, girls are not valued for their intellectual ability. But when her father and sister are killed, John Hyrcanus, a distant relative, invites Salome and her mother to live with his family in Jerusalem, where her thirst for knowledge is noticed and indulged.

When her guardian betroths her to a pagan prince, she questions HaShem’s plan. When Hyrcanus finally marries her to a boy half her age, she questions her guardian’s sanity. But though Salome spends much of her life as a pawn ordered about by powerful men, she learns that a woman committed to HaShem can change the world.

From the Back Cover

Her Rise to the Throne Defied Expectations.
And Then She Proved to Be One of Judea’s Greatest Rulers.

Born in the small village of Modein, a place made famous by the warrior Maccabees, Salome Alexandra knows better than to harbor grand dreams for her future. She pales in comparison to her beautiful older sister, and though she learns to read at an early age, girls are not valued for their intellectual ability. However, when her father and sister are killed, John Hyrcanus, a distant relative, invites Salome and her mother to live with his family in Jerusalem, where her thirst for knowledge is noticed and indulged.

When her guardian betroths her to a pagan prince, she questions HaShem’s plan. When Hyrcanus finally marries her to a boy half her age, she questions her guardian’s sanity. Though Salome Alexandra spends much of her life as a pawn ordered about by powerful men, she learns that a woman committed to HaShem can change the world.

“Hunt’s compelling chronicle dramatizes the repression of women during this historic time and spotlights the role faith played in female empowerment. Hunts places Shelamzion’s story within the growing religious dissonance and speculation about the long-awaited Messiah. Readers who admire the biblical Esther will enjoy this tale of another brave woman playing a pivotal role in the survival of her people.” --Booklist


Praise for Angela Hunt’s Silent Years series

“Hunt’s latest series puts a human face on a momentous event in ancient history. . . . Fans of biblical fiction will be captivated."--Library Journal on Judah’s Wife

"The historical detail, depth of characterization, and hopeful outlook of this story will keep readers entertained and inspired."--RT Book Reviews on Egypt’s Sister

"Once again, Hunt demonstrates her stunning mastery of historical biblical literature as she begins her new Silent Years series. . . . Rich in history, atmosphere, emotion, and spirituality, Hunt’s ambitious series debut is astounding."--Booklist starred review of Egypt’s Sister