Set in the tumultuous era when Egypt is on the brink of becoming the dominant world power, The Serpent and the Staff tells the powerful story of a Canaanite family’s struggle for survival in a climate of violent change, when cherished beliefs and traditions are threatened.

Ugarit, Syria, 1450 B.C.E. Eighteen-year-old Leah, the eldest daughter of a wealthy winemaker, is past the traditional age of betrothal. Vowed to wed the wealthy but cruel shipbuilder Jotham, Leah declines his offer of marriage after discovering that he and his family suffer from “the falling sickness.” Enraged by her refusal and his ruined reputation, he blackmails Leah’s father, a punishment forgiven only by offering Leah’s hand in marriage. With no more options for another suitor and no male heir for her family, Leah must seek out the cure for Jotham’s sickness or her family will face permanent ruin.

During her quest Leah begins to burn with desire for Daveed, the handsome household scribe whose culture forbids their union. Daveed has been called by the gods to restore the Brotherhood, an elite fraternity of guardians at the great Library of Ugarit, rumored to contain the secret symbol of immortality within its ancient archives. If his plan succeeds, it may also save Leah’s family from disaster. But even Daveed and Leah cannot fathom the extent of Jotham’s sinister schemes to make Leah his bride once and for all.

With rich historical detail, The Serpent and the Staff is a sweeping tale of love, betrayal, and how one family’s faith can overcome the obstacles that life has in store for them.

Praise for Barbara Wood’s other books:

“Powerful…remarkable.” — Detroit Free Press

“Wood creates genuine, engaging characters whose stories are fascinating.”  —Library Journal

“…not merely a book to be read but an enchanting experience to be lived and felt.”

Barbara Wood was born in Warrington, England (near Liverpool). Together with her parents and older brother, she immigrated to the United States and  grew up in Southern California.

Before becoming an author, Barbara worked as a waitress, secretary, switchboard operator, and dog walker!! Barbara’s career path took a more serious direction when she became an operating room technician, which she did for 10 years before quitting to become a full-time writer in 1980.

To date, Barbara has written 25 books, including three under the pen name of Kathryn Harvey. She is an international bestselling author with books translated into over 30 languages. The reader is transported to exotic countries that Barbara has meticulously researched to provide her fans with a true sense of the culture and history relevant to each story. At the heart of every book is a strong, independent woman.

When not writing, Barbara often takes time to enjoy the work of other authors or play golf with her husband, Walt.

For more about Barbara Wood and her work, please visit her website.