From the Back Cover
From the day she is born in Baghdad, Najila’s life is defined by conflict. Her mother a Muslim and her father the Greek Orthodox Byzantine ambassador to Persia, she must one day choose between their beliefs.
When her father dies in a tragic accident, seventeen-year-old Najila inherits his estate—Hawks Hill in Constantinople—and something far more precious: his beautiful silver and amber cross. After her father’s death, a bitter and grieving Najila leaves her home behind and sets out to claim her inheritance in Constantinople, a new and unfamiliar city where she finds many surprises waiting for her: an enemy, romance, and a new life.
Leaving behind all she has ever known, Najila will be forever changed by Hawks Hill and her father’s beloved cross as they push her to discover herself and finally come to terms with her faith.
“At times I had chills running up and down my arms, and there were other periods when I fought tears. My interest did not once falter.”
—Patricia Collins
Author, Embers of Life
C. J. Illinik lives in a scenic town nestled in the foothills of the Oregon Cascades. For many years, C. J. and her husband bred and showed Appaloosa horses, much like the spotted horses mentioned in Najila. As a retired college art instructor, C. J. still finds time to draw, paint, and dabble in photography.
About the Author
C. J. Illinik lives in a scenic town nestled into the foothills of the Oregon Cascades. For many years, C. J. bred and showed Appaloosa horses, much like the horses in Najila. As a retired college art instructor, C. J. still finds time to draw, paint, and dabble in photography.
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