logo

66 pages 2 hours read

A Voice in the Wind

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1993

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Francine Rivers

A Voice in the Wind

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1993
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rome • 1st century

Publication Year

1993

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers unfolds in ancient Rome, where Hadassah, a Christian slave in the Valerian household, faces religious persecution and forbidden love, while Atretes, a Germanic warrior, becomes a gladiator seeking revenge against Rome; their lives intersect amid the empire's decadence and cruelty, ultimately highlighting themes of faith and resilience. The novel contains depictions of violence, enslavement, and abuse.

Emotional

Suspenseful

Dark

Inspirational

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

4.6

102,858 ratings

90%

Loved it

6%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Francine Rivers' A Voice in the Wind captivates with its vivid historical setting and complex characters. Readers praise its emotional depth and powerful spiritual themes. However, some find the pacing slow and the graphic content challenging. Overall, it’s a compelling tale of faith and resilience that may appeal more to those comfortable with intense narratives.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Voice in the Wind?

A reader who enjoys A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers would likely appreciate historical fiction with strong religious themes, intricate character development, and a focus on resilience and faith. Fans of The Mark of the Lion series or The Red Tent by Anita Diamant would find this novel particularly engaging.

4.6

102,858 ratings

90%

Loved it

6%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Hadassah

A Jewish Christian enslaved after the fall of Jerusalem, whose unwavering faith and service guide her interactions with the Valerian family.

A Germanic warrior captured and forced into gladiatorial combat, known for his fierce prowess in the arena and struggle with cultural assimilation.

The pragmatic and pleasure-seeking heir of the Valerian household, whose internal conflict is fueled by his skepticism of religion and attraction to Hadassah.

The rebellious daughter of the Valerian family, who resents societal constraints and struggles with impulsive decisions.

The patriarch of the Valerian family, a traditionalist with a successful shipping empire, who grapples with regrets about his life choices.

The devoted wife of Decimus and insightful mother, known for her warmth and intuitive understanding of people, especially Hadassah.

A charismatic and influential figure in Julia's life, who promotes her own agenda under the guise of advocating for women's independence.

Julia's charming yet abusive second husband, who becomes entwined in her turbulent personal life.

Atretes's Ethiopian trainer and mentor, who guides him in his gladiatorial career with wisdom and empathy.

A character known for his sensitivity and controversial position in Roman society, connected to schemes and intrigue within the Valerian circle.

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rome • 1st century

Publication Year

1993

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.