Queen's Handmaid

Christian Fiction Spring Scavenger Hunt

Mesu AndrewsFeatured Articles 223 Comments

Follow the clues for a chance to win:

Grand Prize: Kindle Fire HDX & $100 Gift Cert

~OR~

Two Second Prize Winners Get: All 32 novels!

Welcome to the Spring Scavenger Hunt! You’ve arrived at the 3rd stop! The hunt begins at noon (Mountain time) on April 4, 2014. You may have arrived here before the official start, which means all the sites aren’t quite ready yet. Once the official start has begun, work your way through the sites, gathering clues, entering bonus giveaways, until you arrive at the final stop–which will be at the same website you began.

The hunt ends on Sunday, April 6, 2014, at midnight (Mountain time). That means you’ll have all weekend to complete the hunt, so relax. Take time to enjoy each stop and read the exclusive content each author has prepared just for you!

You’ll collect a clue in RED at each stop. writing them down as you go. At the end of the hunt, you’ll enter the clues into a Raflecopter form. (The answer will make sense, even if you aren’t familiar with it.)

The Hunt is open to international entries. The grand prize is a Kindle Fire HDX + $100 gift certificate. Two runners-up will receive a prize package of all 32 of our latest releases.

If you find a broken link…

We have prepared a page with direct links to each author’s post in case a site goes down or a link gets broken. We’ll be working on getting all of the links prior to the start of the hunt, but sometimes there are still issues even after the hunt starts, so make a note of the URL for the Participating Authors & Stops page so you can check back and be able to complete the hunt.

scavenger hunt guest-Tracy Higley

My Guest for this Stop: Tracy Higley!

It’s my pleasure to introduce Tracy Higley, author of The Queen’s Handmaid. I’ve read this fabulous book and can’t wait for you to hear what Tracy has to say about her March 18th release:

The search for identity often leads us astray…

Scavenger Hunt--Queen's Handmaid

Sometimes the loudest voices in our lives are the ones we need to silence the most. In The Queen’s Handmaid, Lydia discovers the importance of finding our identity in God and not in the opinions of others — no matter how large a presence those people are.

We are all trying to gain the love and admiration of others in our lives, to feel good about ourselves. The only way we can escape this self-oriented life and really live our calling is finding acceptance and love in the God who will never fail us.

This search for true identity is the foundation for The Queen’s Handmaid, a story that takes readers on an adventure through an ancient world and gives a unique understanding of the culture and setting into which Jesus was born.

Lydia, a servant in Cleopatra’s palace, works hard to please but keeps everyone at a safe distance. Though she’s young, rejection has left her brokenhearted too many times. When her dying mentor entrusts her with secret writings of the prophet Daniel and charges her to deliver this vital information to those watching for the promised King of Israel, Lydia must leave the nearest thing she’s had to family and flee to Jerusalem. Once in the Holy City, she attaches herself to the newly appointed king, Herod the Great, as handmaid to Queen Mariamme.

Trapped among the scheming women of Herod’s political family — his sister, his wife and their mothers — and forced to serve in the palace to protect her treasure, Lydia must deliver the scrolls before dark forces warring against the truth destroy all hope of the coming Messiah.

Enjoy this whirlwind trip through Egypt, Rome and Judea—experiencing a taste of my travels to each location in researching my books. From the Harbor of Alexandria, to the house of Caesar Augustus in Rome, to the rocky cliffs of Masada and the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, I followed in the footsteps of Lydia’s adventures, and invite you to do the same, in the pages of The Queen’s Handmaid! 

You can purchase The Queen’s Handmaid at:

Amazon | Christian Book | Barnes and Noble

Or at your local bookstore.

The Scavenger Hunt Skinny

Before you move on to Stop #4, Tracy Higley’s website, to pick up your next clue, be sure to write down this Stop #3 clue: “a man of rare”

That’s it! You’ve done it!

Before You Go…

As a bonus here on my site, participants can earn a chance to win either an intricately designed Jerusalem Puzzle (500pc./16″x20″) ~ OR ~ your choice of TWO of my books (with a downloadable frame-quality print). Contest open to international participants (Puzzle prize available only to US participants).

My scavenger hunt prizes

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for visiting! If you’re new to my website, I hope you’ll take a few minutes to click through a few tabs and get acquainted. Or bookmark me, and come back later!

Comments 223

  1. This book looks so good, and I’ve heard the ending is fantastic. I can’t wait to get a chance to read it myself! Thanks for being a part of the scavenger hunt. Fun! Fun! Fun!
    Tina

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      1. This book looks so interesting and I can’t wait to get it and read it.
        Too bad I don’t have a bookstore in my hometown.

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          Hi Joyce!
          It’s also available on Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Barnes and Noble–just by clicking those gold words in the post above! It’s a great book! Thanks for stopping by!

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      Hi Joyce!
      It’s also available on Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Barnes and Noble–just by clicking those gold words in the post above! It’s a great book! Thanks for stopping by!

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      Thanks, Stephanie!
      I’m so glad you found both Tracy and me on the scavenger hunt! Biblical fiction isn’t just my passion to write. It’s also my favorite thing to READ!

      Blessings on ya, gal!

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      Me, too, Hannah! I love Francine Rivers’ Mark of the Lion series and Lynn Austin’s Chronicles of the Kings. These ladies made me WANT to write biblical fiction! I hope you’ll try one of mine and let me know what you think. Blessings, gal!

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  7. I have never read biblical fiction, but after reading the author interviews of Mesu Andrews and Tracy Higley, I definitely plan to add their books to my TBR list. Thank you for having the giveaway.

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      Thanks for stopping by, Heather! I’m excited to hear you’re willing to try Tracy’s and my books. We have a little different style but are both passionate about God’s Word and good research. Please keep in touch! 😉

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      Okay–first of all, can I just say…LOVE your name!!! As you might imagine, I’m a sucker for unique names (Mesu gets a few second-looks). 😉 Absolutely beautiful name. Kudos to whomever chose it. Both my daughters are pregnant, but–sadly–have already chosen names or I’d be voting for Ryebrynn. Love it! 😉

      Thanks for stopping by!

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  9. This looks like a truly amazing book! I would love to read it, I have found her to be such a delightful author and really enjoy her novels. 🙂 Thank You! 🙂

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      Hi Ashley!
      You won’t be disappointed. This was one of my favorite Tracy Higley novels. And I so agree-she’s a delight. Thanks for stopping by, lady! Blessings on your weekend!

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  11. I opened up a word-doc to catalog all the books I need to read after completing the hunt – yours is certainly on the list!

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  14. I am currently reading this book right now and it is really good! I typically don’t read books set this far back in history but I have enjoyed the books of Tracy’s that I’ve read so far! She writes so beautifully that you can’t help but be swept along!

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      I so agree, Abbi. Tracy has a way of drawing us into history instead of “teaching” us history. She’s a gifted storyteller for sure. Glad you’re enjoying THE QUEEN’S HANDMAID! 😉

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  15. The Queen’s Handmaid sound incredible!!! So glad I can borrow it from my library. Can’t wait to read it!

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      Libraries are AWESOME! Sounds like yours keeps a good stock of new releases if they’ve already got Tracy’s. Hooray, others might be chomping at the bit for this one! 😉

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  16. I think this cover is stunning… there is something mysterious about it that draws you in and makes you want to know what is going on… I can’t wait to read this book and have also heard that the ending is great! 🙂

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  17. I am really looking forward to reading some of your books!! this is what I love about these scavenger hunts! even if I don’t win anything I learn about great new authors!

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      Hi Mackenzie!
      I’m excited about being a part of this thing too! I missed it last year, so it’s fun to get to meet lots of new folks. Make sure you enter the Rafflecopter thingy too! 😉

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      Oh, how fun, Beth! Did you get it on the freebie promo? I’m so excited my publisher did that!!! LATA is still my hubby’s favorite, but some folks are voting on book #4 (Jezebel) as the new fav. I’d love to hear your vote! ha! Blessings, gal!

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  31. I am looking forward to readine your book, it sounds wonderful! Loving the hop, hope this is the right place to comment.

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      Hi Virginia!
      You did it–perfect place to comment. Good job! Isn’t this scavenger hunt thing fun? It’s my first time, and I’m loving it. Blessings on your “hopping!”

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  32. I can’t wait to read this book! And I love getting some extra info from the author about what went in to writing the book! So fun!

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      Hi Ashley!
      So glad you stopped by. You’d probably love Tracy’s website. She’s got some great pix from her trips. She’s sooooo fun. Take care, and keep in touch, gal! 😉

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  33. Your book looks so good! I am definitely going to look for it next time I go to the Christian book store.

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  34. I would love to read Tracy’s book about life in King Herod’s court. My appetite for your book, Mesu, about Athaliah and her righteous daughter would also be on my list.

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  37. Thank you for participating in this fun scavenger hunt and for the opportunity to be a winner! I love finding more wonderful books to add to my TBR list!

    texaggs2000 at gmail dot com

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  41. I really enjoy your Biblical fiction books. You certainly have to do lots of research. I had not even been aware of Jezebel’s daughter; I think that’s what your notes said. Thanks for the scavenger hunt.

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  44. I love these types of books and cannot wait to read yours! Thanks for joining the hunt so that we could learn about you and them!

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      Thanks for being open to new authors, Karen! I know reading time is precious, and I’m honored you’re willing to spend some valuable time on my books. Blessings, gal! 😉

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  47. Hi Mesu! Thanks for being part of this scav hunt and thank you for sharing your love for the Lord through your books and your blog posts – you are such an inspiration to me!
    Thank you Tracy for being a part of this hunt, as well! I can only imagine how amazing your travels have been for research and, I imagine, a bit of fun!
    God bless y’all!
    kam110476 at gmail dot com

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  48. I just started reading this, and I am even more excited to continue now! I love the theme of finding your identity in Him. I think for some it is a lifelong struggle and these reminders can be so powerful! Thank you both, Mesu and Tracy for using your talents to serve Him!

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      You’re so right. For so many of us, finding our identity in Jesus is a life-long journey. Tracy’s book paints a beautiful picture of one woman’s story, both the ups and downs of that struggle. It is so well-written, intriguing, and real. I think you’ll love it, Megan.

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  49. I’m looking forward to reading ‘In Shadow of Jezebel’ and ‘The Queen’s Handmaid’. I love both of these authors. 🙂

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  50. This book of Tracey’s is on my “to read” list. Love biblical, historical fiction. Thanks for participating in this scavenger hunt. Blessings!

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      Thanks for the blessings, Tina. I was so excited to review Tracy’s book, and if you love biblical/historical fiction, you’ll definitely enjoy THE QUEEN’S HANDMAID! Blessings right back atcha! 😉

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  52. Enjoyed the guest post. Love finding new authors to read and I love historical fiction. Especially biblical. Thanks!

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      Hooray, Kathy!
      I’m so glad you’ve discovered new books and authors. This is my first year for this scavenger hunt, and I’m thoroughly enjoying meeting all these new readers! Thanks for stopping by! 😉

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  56. I enjoyed visiting your site. I see you on FB at times. I would be happy to win your books. I love Bible stories. Thanks, Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com

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  58. I have not yet read any of your books. They look absolutely fascinating. I look for to reading them in the future! Thanks you participating!

    Stephanie C.

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      I’m always glad to give away a book here and there. It’s a fun excuse to chat with readers! How fun that JEZEBEL is already on your TBR shelf! Woohoo! Blessings on you, gal! 😉

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  61. This Scavenger Hunt is so exciting! I am familiar with each of you so far, and am just so blessed to see you today. 🙂 Ms. Higley, I live in Italy, and your book on Pompei is bucket list to read. I am waiting for the right moment to get it. I want to read ALL of them, as they are so full of history and unique stories. I hope to do so soon. Thank you

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    1. Hi Celita! I’m feeling a bit of jealousy right now! I just love Italy. I’ve been there twice, but haven’t gotten to see nearly enough yet! Thanks for joining the Scavenger Hunt!

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  62. Ms. Andrews– I have just recently becomer acquainted with your work…. I am looking forward to seeing more of you. as I liked your FB page and am following you… Thank you for this opportunity. 🙂

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      Hi Celita!
      I love that you’re in Italy–and able to read my books! How awesome is that?

      You’ll love this book of Tracy’s because her short section on Herod’s visit to Rome is so wonderfully descriptive. I’ve never been to Rome, but I felt as if I was walking through its streets!

      Thank you for following me on FB and for your encouragement. Blessings, dear one! 😉

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  63. The Queen’s Handmaid sounds very interesting. I’m looking forward to reading it. Thanks for participating in the Scavenger Hunt.

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  64. I am reading The Queen’s Handmade and am enjoying it very much. I love Lydia and Mariamme, as well as, being able to visit the ancient Biblical cities.

    Blessings,

    Tammi

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  65. I wasn’t sure at first if I wanted to go through all of the authors’ pages for the scavenger hunt but I’m glad I started. This is only stop #3 and I’ve already found two new authors. (I’ve already been a fan of Ms. Thatcher). My next stop is B&N. 🙂

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      Hahaha! Well, Saundra, I’m so happy you decided to start the scavenger hunt! I was a little overwhelmed at all the details of 32 authors working together, but it’s been so fun! And it’s REALLY great to meet so many new reader-friends like you. 😉 Say “Hi” to B&N for me!

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  68. I cannot wait to read Tracy’s new book as I LOVE her books! I also cannot wait to read your new book, Mesu, as I LOVE your books as well!! Enjoying the Scavenger Hunt! 🙂

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      Actually, Julie, these are two separate contests. The puzzle and book are my personal blog contest, but the KindleFire and 32-book package are prizes for the scavenger hunt as a whole. LOTS of ways to win lots of stuff! Woohoo!!! 😉

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      Sounds like you’re a pro at this, Carolyn! Good for you! I’m still learning the ins-and-outs of the scavenger hunt, but I’m loving it. I think I’m hooked!!! 😉

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  77. I love participating in these scavenger hunts. They are so much fun and I learn so much about the authors and books.

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  79. This is my third try at leaving a comment. Must be a glitch somewhere–LOL! I just want to say that I haven’t read any of Tracy’s books but The Queen’s Handmaid sounds like a good story. Mesu, thank you for offering a chance to win 2 of your books.

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      Oh no! So sorry, KayM! All the scavenger hunt websites have been experiencing some issues because of the high traffic. I think that’s a good thing–unless you’re the one trying to leave a comment, right?! 😉

      Thanks for persevering, dear one! And I think you’ll love Tracy’s books! Blessings on ya!

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  82. Good afternoon Mesu my friend! Thank you for the invitation to the scavenger hunt.

    Tracy, Mesu had done a review of your book so I had already added it to my “to be read” shelf. Your book sounds phenomenal and it’s in a time period that I find fascinating. When I finish it I will write a review as well.

    Blessings to both of you ladies!
    The hunt continues….

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  83. I love to travel to other countries and to other time periods from the comfort of home. Thank you Tracy for all you do to help us see the events and places in your books. I look forward to reading The Queen’s Handmaid. Thank you Mesu for your participation in the Scavenger Hunt and for hosting the interview with Tracy Higley.

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  84. Books written during about the time period our Lord walk the earth are rare, especially good ones. I look forward to reading yours. I love Carla Capshaw’s Gladiator Series. Thanks for participating in this scavenger hunt.

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  86. My sister loves your biblical fiction books and I love biblical fiction too. So excited about this giveaway!
    J.C.

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  89. I have not read any of Tracy’s books. I need to add this one to my list of books to read. Thank you for the scavenger hunt.

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  101. Thanks for being part of this years Scavenger Hunt
    Mesu and Tracy!
    Mesu, I’m nor familiar with your books. I review Christian Fiction on my blog, so I have another author to look into now. (That’s my favorite part of this scavenger hunt…finding new auhtors!!) Your name is so interesting! What’s the story behind it? (I’ll check out your “About Mesu” page to see of its there.)
    Tracy,
    This book sounds intriguing just like all of your others! I can’t wait to read it!

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      This is my first year, Rachelle, and I’ve met lots of new folks. So great to meet you! Please do check out the “About Mesu” section. You’ll discover “Mesu” is a nickname. 😉 Keep in touch, gal!

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  102. Tracy thank you for writing a book that is so timely in the heart story and so adventurous too! I wish more of us would realize where our true worth lies.

    Mesu thanks for joining in the scavenger hunt. For some reason when I tried to sign up for your newsletter the link on Rafflecopter did not work. I was able to use the side bar link though and it confirmed just fine. I just wanted to give you a heads up in case there was a problem beyond my own computer.

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  104. I won a free copy of Tracy’s book, Isle of Shadows. It was great! It reminded me of Francine Rivers’ Mark of the Lion series. I am looking forward to reading more of Tracy’s books!

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