On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman

 

On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman is the third book in the Women of the Way series. This book is Salome's story--and so much more based on the New Testament. 

Salome grows up feeling lonely. Her eyes are an unusual color and her mother passed away when she was young. She has her father and he does encourage her, but she is still lonely and made fun of as she grows up by the Sea of Galilee. She is known as a wild girl with a quick tongue. As she gets grows up, she worries she will never marry. Then, she does and God blesses her with two sons--James and John.

When her sons are grown, James and John answer a call to follow Jesus of Nazereth. Salome isn't sure what to think of their path and the man who is leading them. Will she and her family all become followers?

On Living Stone certainly details some of the challenges of living during the time of Jesus. Based on the Bible, the author uses her imagination to bring New Testament history to life. 

I found this story to be interesting as the author clearly shows some of the relationship challenges of the times. Many of us can probably relate to those challenges as we face relationship challenges of our own today. There are stories of pride, jealousy, retribution, restitution, and redemption. The story is well told. She also describes the setting in good detail. I think this would be an especially good book to read around Easter as it brings the story to life. At the back of the book, the author shares the Scriptural basis for her story too.

There are also discussion questions at the back of On Living Stone, making it a good book for a group discussion. On Living Stone releases on January 20, 2026.

I received a copy of this book from the author and the publisher. All opinions are my own.