Nightingale mountain trilogy

Step into the first century with author D. D. Shiell – a Christian historical fiction set in the world of the Apostle Paul and the early Church.

Nightingale Mountain Trilogy

From the hills of Ephesus to the heart of Rome, the Nightingale Mountain Trilogy follows the Apostle Paul and his family through betrayal, reconciliation, and enduring faith. In The Vigil, Rachel’s quiet life unravels as secrets and persecution force her to confront the past. In The Reunion, estranged father and daughter wrestle with forgiveness and love. In The Legacy, a new generation carries the torch of faith in the face of Rome’s power. A sweeping saga of family, sacrifice, and the earliest followers of Jesus.

The Vigil - Apostle Paul novel
book 1

The Vigil

On the sunlit slopes of Nightingale Mountain near Ephesus, Rachel longs for love and belonging. She finds both with Mary the mother of Jesus and John the Evangelist…MORE

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The Reunion - Nightingale Mountain Trilogy by D. D. Shiell
Book 2

The Reunion

Rachel enters a new chapter of life as wife and mother. The birth of her daughter, Mara, brings joy to her household. Yet her new life is unsettled…MORE

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book 3

The Legacy

Mara, once the child at her mother Rachel’s side, now takes her place at the center of the story. She travels with Paul as he pursues his dream of bringing the Good News to Spain…MORE

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Critic Reviews

A richly researched and deeply human trilogy that brings first-century faith to life without sacrificing story or character. — Christian Historical Fiction Reviewer

Faith-centered without feeling didactic, these novels respect both historical complexity and spiritual depth. — Editor, Christian Fiction Review Site

A thoughtfully constructed trilogy that rewards careful reading and reflection. — Biblical Fiction Reviewer

Well suited for extended reading over several weeks, with themes that naturally invite discussion and reflection. — Church Book Club Coordinator

Balances narrative momentum with theological care in a way that feels authentic rather than forced. — Christian Literature Blogger

An engaging portrayal of faith lived out in community, shaped by history, doubt, and perseverance. — Faith & History Reviewer

Our Readers’ Reviews

See what our readers are saying about the Nightingale Mountain Trilogy! These biblical fiction novels have given many readers a richer, more personal connection to the life of the Apostle Paul. Explore their reflections—and discover how the story can deepen your own understanding, too.

  • Wow – what a fantastic read! D.D. Shiell does such a great job of bringing the people of the Bible to life in The Vigil.
    M.H.
  • The Vigil is a beautifully written historical novel that brought the people of the Bible to life for me in a way that reminded me of watching The Chosen.u003cbru003e
    PBGardensHideaway
  • This book made Paul a real person for me. I look forward to the rest of this trilogy.u003cbru003e
    Amazed1
  • I loved the way D.D. Shiell masterfully blended biblical history with compelling fictional storytelling.
    B.M.

Free Preview: The Vigil

Preview The Vigil – Book 1 of the Nightingale Mountain Trilogy.

The Vigil follows Rachel’s search for love and belonging on Nightingale Mountain as her father’s past collides with Saul of Tarsus’s dramatic transformation, setting the stage for the Apostle Paul’s life and mission.

Get instant access to the opening chapters of The Vigil — Book 1 of the Nightingale Mountain Trilogy. Download your free PDF sample (Chapters 1–3) and start reading today.