This is an interesting, personalized look at the events prior to and the first 50 days after the crucifixion of Jesus. We not only see the events described in the Bible but we see the innermost thoughts and interactions of the characters involved, from the apostles to Pontius Pilate, John the Baptist, Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and more.  This book is a blend of fiction and nonfiction. We see the apostles’ reactions to the crucifixion as described in the Bible, but we also see events after that. We see the innermost thoughts and interactions of not only the apostles, but people around them at the time, and we see fictionalized takes on what they may have said and done. In a nonfictional way, the beginning of each chapter contains descriptions of the actual historical events described in that chapter, and the laws, customs, or people involved. A very helpful introduction to the book sets the stage and explains the politics and religious practices in Jerusalem at that time. At the end of the book, a list is provided of all the apostles and other figures in the Christian church and their eventual fate.  This book appears to be somewhat geared towards the Catholic belief system, but I think all Christians may enjoy it.

What I liked most about this book is that it takes us more into the story of Lazarus in a fictionalized way, expanding on the scripture John 12:10. In the Bible, we don’t really hear very much about Lazarus after Jesus raises him from the dead. In this book, he is running for his life from Caiaphas, who wants to murder him. Lazarus is aided by Mary Magdalene, who becomes sort of a shadowy spy figure, working behind the scenes to protect him and his sisters.

All Christians know the story of Peter’s denial of Christ three times, but this book takes us into his innermost thoughts as he struggles with shame, guilt, and acceptance of forgiveness.   

Some of the fictional reactions and speech in this book appear to me to be very modern and not something an apostle would have said or done at that time. However, I realize this is the author’s interpretation. 

 I would recommend this book to anyone interested in reading about the lives of the apostles and others in the early church.