Daphne and Thekla by Jonna-Lynn Mandelbaum Daphne and Thekla is an imaginative, well-researched, and beautifully written work of historical fiction based on the legendary Thekla, a Christian figure of the first century. Based on The Acts of Paul and Thekla, a scripture not accepted into the Bible, this book is a powerful portrait of friendship, of faith, and of women transcending the boundaries of their time and culture. In first-century Roman society, an arena that is particularly oppressive for women, Thekla has even more challenges than most. Her own mother wants her dead for fleeing an arranged marriage, and later a civic leader tries to have her killed torn apart by wild animals because she thwarted his attempt at rape. Rather than destroying her, these horrendous experiences strengthen Thekla to develop her own spiritual insights. She becomes a follower of the Apostle Paul, who eventually acknowledges her as an apostle, too. Jonna-Lynn Mandelbaum s book follows this extraordinary woman as she breaks from her prescribed role in society, takes charge of her own destiny, and embarks on a truly remarkable life."