Description

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In the rich tradition of Francine Rivers’s Lineage of Grace series, comes a beautiful retelling of the biblical story of the woman at the well—bringing to life this poignant young woman struggling to survive love and heartbreak.

Could he be the One we’ve been waiting for?

For the women of the Samaritan village of Sychar, the well is a place of blessing—the place where they gather to draw their water and share their lives—but not for Mara. Shunned for the many sins of her mother, Nava, Mara struggles against the constant threats of starvation or exile.

Mara and Nava’s lives are forever changed with the arrival of two men: Shem, a mysterious young man from Caesarea, and Jesus, a Jewish teacher. Nava is transformed by Jesus, but his teachings come too late and she is stoned by the unforgiving villagers. Desperate to save her dying mother, Mara and Shem embark on a journey to seek Jesus’ help—a journey that brings unexpected love and unimaginable heartbreak.

About the Author

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Stephanie Landsem writes historical fiction because she loves adventure in far-off times and places. In real life, she’s explored ancient ruins, medieval castles, and majestic cathedrals around the world. Stephanie is equally happy at home in Minnesota with her husband, four children, and three fat cats. When she’s not writing, she’s feeding the ravenous horde, avoiding housework, and dreaming about her next adventure—whether it be in person or on the page.

Praise For…

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"Mara is an unforgettable character, and the writing is sharp. Landsem’s fresh interpretation of the familiar biblical story of Jesus and the woman at the well will be well received by fans of T. Davis Bunn. An excellent first outing by a promising writer." —Library Journal
— Library Journal

"...an interesting and imaginative work; highly recommended." —The Historical Novel Society
— The Historical Novel Society

“In The Well Stephanie has written a biblical novel that tells about a little known woman's encounter with Jesus that will resonate with readers. I felt I was right there, struggling with Mara, aching with her in all her agonies and cheering for her to struggle through them. Stephanie Landsem is a writer to watch.” —Lauraine Snelling, author of the Red River of the North series and Reunion
— Lauraine Snelling, author of the Red River of the North series and Reunion

“Stephanie Landsem breaks into historical biblical fiction with an intriguing and compelling story. The Well is sure to win the hearts of readers, and Landsem is a welcomed new voice to the publishing world.” —Rachel Hauck, bestselling, award winning author of The Wedding Dress and Once Upon a Prince
— Rachel Hauck, bestselling, award winning author of The Wedding Dress and Once Upon a Prince

“It's a rare story that you can't put down. Even rarer is a story that compels you to set it aside, reflect, and pray before you can go any further. Stephanie Landsem takes a tale you think you know and leaves you breathless with unexpected discoveries. I found myself stunned by The Well and humbled and inspired by the faith journey of her characters. This is a masterpiece.” —Regina Jennings, author of Love in the Balance and Sixty Acres and a Bride
— Regina Jennings, author of Love in the Balance and Sixty Acres and a Bride

“A captivating account based on a familiar biblical story, Stephanie Landsem brings clarity, hope, reflection, and plenty of enchantment to The Well.” —Alice J. Wisler, author of Rain Song (Christy Finalist) and other southern fiction
— Alice J. Wisler, author of Rain Song (Christy Finalist) and other southern fiction

"As you open the pages of Stephanie Landsem’s The Well, get ready to embark on a journey through the places where Jesus traveled—breathe the scent of an olive grove, taste the barley bread and sweet melon, walk along the dusty road to Galilee. Most of all get ready to have your own faith stretched as you read about those lives Jesus touched and how they were never the same again." —Ruth Axtell, author of Her Good Name and Moonlight Masquerade
— Ruth Axtell, author of Her Good Name and Moonlight Masquerade

“Stephanie Landsem breathes fresh life and understanding into the story of the woman at the well. Under her skilled pen, the characters, the setting, the history of ancient Samaria spring to life. The Well is a debut to stir the soul.” —Elizabeth Ludwig, author of No Safe Harbor
— Elizabeth Ludwig, author of No Safe Harbor