Carol Ashby is a respected author, best known for her biblical fiction series, Light in the Empire. Her debut novel, Forgiven, was published in 2016 and takes readers back to the Roman Empire during a time when greed and anger were prevalent. Ashby's writing vividly portrays this historical period, highlighting the contrast between the dominant societal values and the teachings of Jesus. The author's characters are relatable and well-developed, which is a testament to Ashby's deep understanding of the Bible and its relevance to modern society.
Before becoming an author of biblical fiction, Ashby spent most of her professional life as a writer in a different field. She wrote articles and books about lasers and compound semiconductors, the electronics that power various modern technologies such as cell phones, laser pointers, and LED displays. However, her passion for the Roman Empire, which was ignited during her first middle-school Latin class, eventually led her to pursue a career in historical fiction. Ashby's research career in New Mexico has been instrumental in ensuring that every historical detail in her Light in the Empire series is accurate. Her meticulous attention to detail allows readers to feel as if they are living in the Roman Empire themselves during the reigns of Trajan and Hadrian.
In addition to writing, Ashby shares her knowledge of the Roman Empire through her articles on "Life in the Roman Empire: Historical Fact and Fiction" and her blog, "The Beauty of Truth." Her writing is well-regarded, and she has built a dedicated following of readers who appreciate her commitment to historical accuracy and her ability to bring the past to life. Ashby's Light in the Empire series offers a unique perspective on the Roman Empire, blending historical detail with compelling stories of difficult friendships, life-changing decisions, and the power of forgiveness and love to open hearts to faith in Christ.