Rahab was once the oldest child of rug seller, Robur, in the city of Riha , until her wicked stepmother, Helsbah, had her cast out and all ties to her family and friends were severed. Feeling she had nowhere to go and no one to turn to for help, she wandered the city until she ended up at the House of Palms. At first she has no idea what exactly goes on in the house that is so different from the others in the area. All she knows is that the woman who owns it is being nice to her and not shunning her. Soon she learns it’s a home for zannas or prostitutes and once again she runs. She finds herself in danger and once again the owner of the House of Palms, Tiamat, comes to her rescue. Feeling she has no choice but to return to Tiamat’s home she does and soon finds herself living and working as a harlot. She has no desire to be a harlot but as an outcast from family and friends she has few choices.

At the same time Rahab is dealing with her new situation, she must also hide her faith for all around Riha Semites are being killed. When she meets a fellow Semite she is shocked and at the same time attracted to this man she fears for. She warns him to leave the city before it’s too late.When the same man along with a friend show up at her new home seeking shelter from discovery she must decide whether to offer help or turn them away. Can her faith help her get through the troubles that are coming or will she turn away from her faith to save herself? Can Rahab ever be more than the harlot she is now and someday have the life she always dreamed of?

Rahab’s Story is just as the title states. It is the story of Rahab one of the many women of the bible who’s faith is tested and must overcome many hardships. Rahab’s life went from that of a merchant’s beloved daughter, to a harlot, to a woman who must decide to be a heroine or turn away those in need.  Ms. Burton has done a wonderful job of taking a woman we know little about and making her seem more real. Also giving readers a look into how hard life can sometimes be. Fans of stories based on characters from the Bible will certainly enjoy this book. Those who read inspirationals but are not as pulled to stories based on fact will still find something to enjoy in this story. This is just the beginning of this series with Jael’s story to come in March 2006.