Debra Diaz

This triplet of stories is set in the first century AD in the sphere of the Roman occupation of Judea. Most of the action takes place in and around Jerusalem and in Rome. The story starts with a Roman military official buying a feisty young Greek girl as a slave. Woven into their story is the life of Jesus, not making him a central part of the story, but on his influence as the promised Messiah and the birth of the New Testament Christian church.
Key historical figures are Emperors Tiberius (mad and dangerous) and Claudius (compassionate and wise), Pilate, Herod, Jesus, and Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha. These people really provide a great framework for and enjoyable love story; actually a number of love stories. However, it's not a sloppy romance and (without giving too much away), not everything ends sweetly. Setting aside the romance (if that is not what you are after), there is plenty to learn about the life of an early Christian, and about daily life in Judea and other places of the Roman Empire.
There are some weaknesses though. Theological it's a bit vague, and in some places incorrect. The first part of the second book seems to lack direction. The author often takes a fair bit of time setting up up scenarios, and this interface to the real story appears forced and awkward. There is an overuse (and incorrect) use of ellipses (...)
This book is, I understand, only available as an ebook; the formatting on a kindle app was fine although there were a few minor errors.… (mehr)

This is not my typical book to read but I was intrigued by the description. I have to admit I was expecting this to be a romance novel and started it out with that opinion. But as I got deeper and deeper into the book I realized this is a book that mixes religion and death. If you are looking for a true grit love story with loss, sex and death do not try. But if you want to look at the death of Jesus in another life then pick it up and give it a chance. Do not let the title or book cover fool you, you will understand both more after reading the book.… (mehr)