At a glance
The Queen's Cook
Christian romantic suspense
The Queen's Cook
Book 1 of the Queen Esther’s Court series
In ancient Persia, impoverished nobleman's daughter Roxannah seeks work in Queen Esther's kitchens after her father's death leaves her family desperate. Her skill earns her a place at court and the trust of Esther, even as hostility toward the empire's Jewish people makes palace politics increasingly dangerous. When Roxannah and Jewish physician Adin uncover a plot against the powerful Amestris, their investigation places them amid rivalries that could endanger both women and Esther's position. This biblical historical novel blends court intrigue, culinary detail, romance, and the courage required to act faithfully inside a dangerous empire.
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Jump to the pours ↓Frankincense Honey Tea + Hearthside Spiced Mead
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Threat of genocide against Jewish people; prejudice and social adversity; dangerous palace politics; sinister plot against a royal wife; investigation and threats; infertility/inability to produce an heir discussed; Christian/biblical faith and clean romance.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Frankincense Honey Tea
A fragrant cup of tea suits a reading mood full of secrets and intrigue.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Mug.
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Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Hearthside Spiced Mead
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
For adult readers, honey and spice echo the culinary atmosphere of Esther's kitchens while giving Roxannah's dangerous palace investigation a layered companion.
What you'll need
- 6 oz plain honey mead
- 1 small cinnamon stick ↗
- 2 whole cloves ↗
- 1 strip orange peel, avoiding the white pith ↗
- 1/2 tsp honey, optional if using dry mead ↗
Shop the spirits 21+Search Total Wine for Featured alcoholic ingredient · 21+ ↗
How to mix it
- Makes one serving.
- Combine the mead, cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat until gently steaming—do not simmer or boil. Keep over very low heat for 5–10 minutes, tasting occasionally for your preferred spice strength. Strain into a heatproof mug and sweeten with honey if desired.
- Garnish: Orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
- Glassware: Heatproof mug.
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