The Handmaid and the Carpenter

In this wonderful novel about love and trust, hope and belief, Elizabeth Berg, the bestselling author of "We Are All Welcome Here "and "The Year of Pleasures," transports us to Nazareth in biblical times to reimagine the events of the classic Christmas story.

We see Mary-young, strong, and inquisitive-as she first meets Joseph, a serious-minded young carpenter who is steadfastly devoted to the religious traditions of their people. The two become betrothed, but are soon faced with an unexpected pregnancy. Aided by a great and abiding love, they endure challenges to their relationship as well as threats to their lives as they come to terms with the mysterious circumstances surrounding the birth of their child, Jesus. For Mary, the pregnancy is a divine miracle and a privilege. For Joseph, it is an ongoing test not only of his courage but of his faith-in his wife as well as in his God.