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Magdalene A.D.
Twenty-five years after the crucifixion, Mary Magdalene leads a double life as Jesu’s disciple and Susannah, the wealthy heir of an international import/export business in incense and perfume. But someone is watching, her two identities threaten to merge and she must flee Jerusalem. Her journey begins with voices and visions that first drag her into the past and then propel her forward, through the temples of strange gods, across deserts and seas, to experience a near death experience, an unexpected initiation and a dangerous storm at sea. Her outer journey reflects the inner as Magdalene grapples with tradition and duty to discover her heart’s desire.
368 pages, Paperback
First published November 3, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
May 18, 2013
The rest of the story
When was the last time you read a good Greek Tragedy? That’s too long. Mrs. Irving has added an excellent addition to the works of Mary Magdalene and her travails after her rabbi has been crucified.
The reader is instantly thrust into the unrest and turmoil in ancient Judea. Mary’s teachings and professing have the Roman guards searching her out. She is also being attacked by Peter and his followers. Not knowing which way to turn, yet realizing it’s time to leave home, she embarks on a journey with no definitive point of destination. This is so unlike her. Since her introduction to Jesus, her path seemed so clear and defined. She was a woman who would control her own destiny while preaching the “Good Word” through the land. What she hasn’t realized is how entrenched she’s become with, not the teachings of Jesus, but the dogma surrounding religion. Yes, even the enlightened ones lose their way.
Pro’s: The amount of research Christine performed drips through each and every page. From confectionaries, to food, to the aromatic perfumes. Her descriptions of the “Old World” are immaculate. You can almost smell and taste the various markets and salt air of the Mediterranean permeating your senses.
Is this book for women? No doubt. It’s full of the female emotions, but also how they were viewed in the Middle East: subservient. Her eyes are opened as she departs on a mission to seek out…? Nope, not saying it. You will have to join her travels.
With that said, men, listen up. If you are student of this time era, you will find this a rich and enjoyable read.
Cons: Other than a few minor, minor editing issues, there are no issues of concern.
Who will enjoy this work? Anyone interested in the “Old World” and the role woman played in the shadows of men. Very enlightening.
This is a resounding 4.5 star work.
When was the last time you read a good Greek Tragedy? That’s too long. Mrs. Irving has added an excellent addition to the works of Mary Magdalene and her travails after her rabbi has been crucified.
The reader is instantly thrust into the unrest and turmoil in ancient Judea. Mary’s teachings and professing have the Roman guards searching her out. She is also being attacked by Peter and his followers. Not knowing which way to turn, yet realizing it’s time to leave home, she embarks on a journey with no definitive point of destination. This is so unlike her. Since her introduction to Jesus, her path seemed so clear and defined. She was a woman who would control her own destiny while preaching the “Good Word” through the land. What she hasn’t realized is how entrenched she’s become with, not the teachings of Jesus, but the dogma surrounding religion. Yes, even the enlightened ones lose their way.
Pro’s: The amount of research Christine performed drips through each and every page. From confectionaries, to food, to the aromatic perfumes. Her descriptions of the “Old World” are immaculate. You can almost smell and taste the various markets and salt air of the Mediterranean permeating your senses.
Is this book for women? No doubt. It’s full of the female emotions, but also how they were viewed in the Middle East: subservient. Her eyes are opened as she departs on a mission to seek out…? Nope, not saying it. You will have to join her travels.
With that said, men, listen up. If you are student of this time era, you will find this a rich and enjoyable read.
Cons: Other than a few minor, minor editing issues, there are no issues of concern.
Who will enjoy this work? Anyone interested in the “Old World” and the role woman played in the shadows of men. Very enlightening.
This is a resounding 4.5 star work.
August 19, 2021
This is an intriguing novel about what Mary Magdalene's life might have been like after Jesus' death and resurrection. I didn't want to put it down! The relationships and rituals were especially deep and stirring.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews