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Acts of Faith #1
And Their Numbers Grew: An Epic Early Church Anthology
Four lives. Four destinies. One gospel.
Rumors of the risen Christ spread through Jerusalem like a wildfire—and the Sanhedrin is paying attention.
Their efforts to stifle the name of Jesus only fuel the cause until a young Pharisee gets involved, breathing threats of imprisonment—or worse. Stephen’s brutal stoning accelerates the persecution and sends the faithful fleeing the city for their lives.
They are afflicted in every way, but not crushed. As the fledgling church disperses, their numbers continue to grow. Now, the apostles must train the new believers in the ways and words of Jesus—and what it means to live in God's Kingdom here on earth.
The Kingdom of God spreads to Damascus, Joppa, Caesarea, Antioch, and Tarsus through the testimonies of Ananias, Tabitha, and Barnabas. While an outraged Saul sets out for Damascus to arrest them all, the followers press on fervently, with the help of the Holy Spirit—though it may cost them their lives.
Four disciples whose lives are intertwined, told in four novellas, chronicling the birth pains of the early church.
Rumors of the risen Christ spread through Jerusalem like a wildfire—and the Sanhedrin is paying attention.
Their efforts to stifle the name of Jesus only fuel the cause until a young Pharisee gets involved, breathing threats of imprisonment—or worse. Stephen’s brutal stoning accelerates the persecution and sends the faithful fleeing the city for their lives.
They are afflicted in every way, but not crushed. As the fledgling church disperses, their numbers continue to grow. Now, the apostles must train the new believers in the ways and words of Jesus—and what it means to live in God's Kingdom here on earth.
The Kingdom of God spreads to Damascus, Joppa, Caesarea, Antioch, and Tarsus through the testimonies of Ananias, Tabitha, and Barnabas. While an outraged Saul sets out for Damascus to arrest them all, the followers press on fervently, with the help of the Holy Spirit—though it may cost them their lives.
Four disciples whose lives are intertwined, told in four novellas, chronicling the birth pains of the early church.
442 pages, Paperback
Published November 15, 2023
64 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
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November 12, 2023
Told in four novellas, this compilation highlights Saul of Tarsus’ transformation from a persecutor to a leader. His story is told by the four disciples who shared in the growing pains of the early church.
Authors Craig and Lane’s novellas are well-researched and well-written and helped me understand my bible like never before. Not only did I learn more about customs and cultures during biblical times, but I also 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 because of the work these authors put into interpreting the lives and stories of biblical characters. Furthermore, I noticed that I 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆. Reflecting back, I’m not surprised - we humans learn best through stories.
Seeing the human side of Stephen, Ananais, Barnabus, and Tabitha and reading about the possible questions that went through their minds as they contemplated following Jesus and what it would cost them was enlightening for me. I felt challenged by their honor and courage.
I saw myself in:
𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐬 when God gives him an errand on Straight Street and asks him to go to Judas’ home. Sometimes I forget my place, too, and attempt to give God a newsflash and he has to remind me that He is in control and he sees the big picture.
𝐓𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐚 on rare occasions when I focus on others instead of myself. She set an example of striving to live a life worth living for and reminded me of the power of prayer.
𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐬 in those times when I am prompted to encourage another and help ease their burdens.
𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐧 - an ordinary person with a burning desire and I was reminded that ordinary people can have big impacts. It doesn’t matter where we come from, God can use us. Stephen’s life reminded me of the cost of faith.
I felt:
✔️𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓲𝓼𝓮𝓭 - “His choices carried their own punishment. It does no good to hold onto anger toward him.”
✔️𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓶𝓮𝓭 - “I soon realized that Jesus literally turned the world upside down.”
✔️𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓱𝔂 - “We are all lacking. But He loves us just the same.”
✔️ 𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓪𝓰𝓮𝓭 - “The world still has need of the light. My light through you.”
Quotes I highlighted:
“We need to align your perceptions with how Jesus redefined things.”
“It isn’t their time. The Spirit has to cultivate in them the seed you’ve planted.”
Thank you to both authors for the gift of this inspiring ARC. I was under no obligation to provide a review.
Authors Craig and Lane’s novellas are well-researched and well-written and helped me understand my bible like never before. Not only did I learn more about customs and cultures during biblical times, but I also 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 because of the work these authors put into interpreting the lives and stories of biblical characters. Furthermore, I noticed that I 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆. Reflecting back, I’m not surprised - we humans learn best through stories.
Seeing the human side of Stephen, Ananais, Barnabus, and Tabitha and reading about the possible questions that went through their minds as they contemplated following Jesus and what it would cost them was enlightening for me. I felt challenged by their honor and courage.
I saw myself in:
𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐬 when God gives him an errand on Straight Street and asks him to go to Judas’ home. Sometimes I forget my place, too, and attempt to give God a newsflash and he has to remind me that He is in control and he sees the big picture.
𝐓𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐚 on rare occasions when I focus on others instead of myself. She set an example of striving to live a life worth living for and reminded me of the power of prayer.
𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐬 in those times when I am prompted to encourage another and help ease their burdens.
𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐧 - an ordinary person with a burning desire and I was reminded that ordinary people can have big impacts. It doesn’t matter where we come from, God can use us. Stephen’s life reminded me of the cost of faith.
I felt:
✔️𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓲𝓼𝓮𝓭 - “His choices carried their own punishment. It does no good to hold onto anger toward him.”
✔️𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓶𝓮𝓭 - “I soon realized that Jesus literally turned the world upside down.”
✔️𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓱𝔂 - “We are all lacking. But He loves us just the same.”
✔️ 𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓪𝓰𝓮𝓭 - “The world still has need of the light. My light through you.”
Quotes I highlighted:
“We need to align your perceptions with how Jesus redefined things.”
“It isn’t their time. The Spirit has to cultivate in them the seed you’ve planted.”
Thank you to both authors for the gift of this inspiring ARC. I was under no obligation to provide a review.
November 7, 2023
A book of epic proportions! To have the faith, obedience and courage that these men and women of God have is something I can only hope I would have. The Bible comes to life in the pages as Peter, Stephen, Saul (Paul), Tabitha and others live out their lives for Jesus even until the end. Naomi Craig and Donna Lane are so gifted in giving the reader an emotional glimpse of how the hearts of the disciples and Christ followers loved Jesus to the point of giving all for him. This book is an encouragement in my walk with the Savior. The depth to which these two authors lead the reader into what the characters felt and thought is incredible, it wrecked me in a beautiful way.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
November 12, 2023
A great story and wonderful writing. It takes a while to read these four stories. But it was totally worth it. So glad to read these stories which are such a Christian encouragement. I received a copy of this story and all opinions are mine.
November 11, 2023
“We wait in silence as calm vanquishes all anxiety and doubt. It’s then that I know I will see [blank] and Stephen again. “ [This hope- so real to me regarding others in my life!]
I finished And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane with a happy smile on my face, tears of anguish in my eyes. Somehow that wraps up the emotions this book evokes of the four followers of Jesus it focuses on Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabitha. While we see many of the other apostles and disciples prominently, these four are the focus, with their lives both Biblically and in some cases imaginatively tied together.
I would like to say that no where did I see Scripture contradicted. Where Scripture is silent, Lane and Craig allow their storytelling minds to set up situations to make for an informative, believable, and possible storyline. They do not claim what is not in the Bible is truth, just their imaginations to help us better understand what life of the followers of Jesus may have been like shortly after His death.
Craig and Lane do an incredible job of presenting a great deal of fitting Scripture into the story. They also write in first person, giving the characters an urgency about the Message, while still giving them very real stumbling blocks, doubts, and victories.
I highly recommend this novel of the early Christians. Be prepared to be challenged spiritually, and have your emotions totally engaged!
I received a copy of this book from the authors. I am not required to leave a positive review, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“My mind claws to remain on the mountaintop of faith, but the dark thoughts drag me over the edge. I know how far it is to fall, how easy it is to succumb to self-pity, and I don’t want to falter.”
“What makes me think I can properly tell the gospel if I can’t speak clearly? How can he understand God’s great salvation if I don’t articulate the vast grace? I shift my focus to what I know to be true. Although accurate, that thought doesn’t define me, for I have the Holy Spirit of the Christ dwelling in me. My weaknesses are no match for the Spirit’s power.”
“If I identify myself with the Christ, I can’t pick and choose who to show God’s love.”
“Those who still cling to the ways of the fathers are offended that we have set our attention to the Gentiles. Those who are brothers recognize no difference between Greek and Jew.”
I finished And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane with a happy smile on my face, tears of anguish in my eyes. Somehow that wraps up the emotions this book evokes of the four followers of Jesus it focuses on Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabitha. While we see many of the other apostles and disciples prominently, these four are the focus, with their lives both Biblically and in some cases imaginatively tied together.
I would like to say that no where did I see Scripture contradicted. Where Scripture is silent, Lane and Craig allow their storytelling minds to set up situations to make for an informative, believable, and possible storyline. They do not claim what is not in the Bible is truth, just their imaginations to help us better understand what life of the followers of Jesus may have been like shortly after His death.
Craig and Lane do an incredible job of presenting a great deal of fitting Scripture into the story. They also write in first person, giving the characters an urgency about the Message, while still giving them very real stumbling blocks, doubts, and victories.
I highly recommend this novel of the early Christians. Be prepared to be challenged spiritually, and have your emotions totally engaged!
I received a copy of this book from the authors. I am not required to leave a positive review, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“My mind claws to remain on the mountaintop of faith, but the dark thoughts drag me over the edge. I know how far it is to fall, how easy it is to succumb to self-pity, and I don’t want to falter.”
“What makes me think I can properly tell the gospel if I can’t speak clearly? How can he understand God’s great salvation if I don’t articulate the vast grace? I shift my focus to what I know to be true. Although accurate, that thought doesn’t define me, for I have the Holy Spirit of the Christ dwelling in me. My weaknesses are no match for the Spirit’s power.”
“If I identify myself with the Christ, I can’t pick and choose who to show God’s love.”
“Those who still cling to the ways of the fathers are offended that we have set our attention to the Gentiles. Those who are brothers recognize no difference between Greek and Jew.”
November 22, 2023
This is a series of four intertwined short novels about the early Church, creating an effective way to build a deeper understanding of what happened after the Holy Spirit was released in power over the believers.
Based on the last few chapters of the Gospels and the book of Acts, this book follows a number of key followers of Jesus, their involvement in the birthing and growing of the early Church. The struggles, challenges, dilemmas and rewards of this foundational era.
The stories each vividly bring alive the events at the very birth of the church, the excitement, confusion, bewilderment and sheer joy of realising that Jesus had beaten death. The blessing and empowerment of the Holy Spirit and the inevitable results of a rapidly growing church. As the momentum began to build it was unstoppable.
First is the story of Stephen as he becomes increasingly entranced by the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. If you know the story of Stephen you will know how it ends, and the second story picks up from the moment of his death from the point of view of Ananias. He is full of self-doubt, and uncertain faith, much like many of us at different times of our life. But he grows in confidence and certainty.
His story hands on to Barnabas, a reluctant pioneer, who has long been one of my favourites. Known as the 'encourager', he was full of compassion and generosity which helped to form the doctrine that the gospel was for everyone.
The final story of Tabitha takes a female viewpoint, one that was challenged to the cultural core by becoming a follower of Jesus. It covers issues of deep forgiveness and the revelation that following Christ was for a much wider audience than just the Jewish men. With a lovely description of the events surrounding her being raised from dead, she is transformed by the love of Jesus.
The format works so well...
Read the full review at www.robseabrook.com/and-their-numbers...
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the authors, but was under no pressure to provide a favourable review.
Based on the last few chapters of the Gospels and the book of Acts, this book follows a number of key followers of Jesus, their involvement in the birthing and growing of the early Church. The struggles, challenges, dilemmas and rewards of this foundational era.
The stories each vividly bring alive the events at the very birth of the church, the excitement, confusion, bewilderment and sheer joy of realising that Jesus had beaten death. The blessing and empowerment of the Holy Spirit and the inevitable results of a rapidly growing church. As the momentum began to build it was unstoppable.
First is the story of Stephen as he becomes increasingly entranced by the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. If you know the story of Stephen you will know how it ends, and the second story picks up from the moment of his death from the point of view of Ananias. He is full of self-doubt, and uncertain faith, much like many of us at different times of our life. But he grows in confidence and certainty.
His story hands on to Barnabas, a reluctant pioneer, who has long been one of my favourites. Known as the 'encourager', he was full of compassion and generosity which helped to form the doctrine that the gospel was for everyone.
The final story of Tabitha takes a female viewpoint, one that was challenged to the cultural core by becoming a follower of Jesus. It covers issues of deep forgiveness and the revelation that following Christ was for a much wider audience than just the Jewish men. With a lovely description of the events surrounding her being raised from dead, she is transformed by the love of Jesus.
The format works so well...
Read the full review at www.robseabrook.com/and-their-numbers...
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the authors, but was under no pressure to provide a favourable review.
December 4, 2023
I hate to admit this, but it’s been awhile since I’ve done any reading in the books of Acts. The early church was a tumultuous time for Christ’s followers and And Their Numbers Grew shows us these struggles from four different individuals that witnessed it firsthand.
First off, I really liked how this book was laid out. Though they are four separate stories they also continue as one novel when read back-to-back which I appreciated. Though it is authored by two individuals it doesn’t feel that was as the writing felt seamless, and I like that each book was narrated by an individual that was there but not one of the disciples.
I loved seeing Biblical stories that I’ve heard for years told from a perspective of someone that was there to witness Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection as well as the hardships that befell the followers of the early church. I cannot imagine the persecution that they faced as they went against everything the religious teachers taught during that time. It really was quite radical, and I don’t think we really think about that too often when we’re reading in Acts, and I commend each and every person that stood strong during that time because we wouldn’t be where we are if it weren’t for them.
And Their Numbers Grew is a refreshing and unique take on the New Testament that was so easy to read and connect to, and it’s one that I cannot recommend enough!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
First off, I really liked how this book was laid out. Though they are four separate stories they also continue as one novel when read back-to-back which I appreciated. Though it is authored by two individuals it doesn’t feel that was as the writing felt seamless, and I like that each book was narrated by an individual that was there but not one of the disciples.
I loved seeing Biblical stories that I’ve heard for years told from a perspective of someone that was there to witness Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection as well as the hardships that befell the followers of the early church. I cannot imagine the persecution that they faced as they went against everything the religious teachers taught during that time. It really was quite radical, and I don’t think we really think about that too often when we’re reading in Acts, and I commend each and every person that stood strong during that time because we wouldn’t be where we are if it weren’t for them.
And Their Numbers Grew is a refreshing and unique take on the New Testament that was so easy to read and connect to, and it’s one that I cannot recommend enough!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
November 25, 2023
This book of four novellas of the early church will grab you from the opening sentence and will not let go even after the last page is read.
Stephen, a fierce defender of Jesus and the first martyr of the church encounters Jesus on the cross and his life is changed forever.
Ananias, who witnessed Stephen’s stoning and the destruction caused by Saul’s relentless searching and persecution of those who follow Jesus and is asked of God to do the very hard thing, forgive.
Barnabas, known as the encourager and traveling companion to John Mark and Paul, was full of doubt and insecurities but follows where called anyway.
Tabitha, the dressmaker who clothes widows and those less fortunate than her. A woman who follows Jesus and is responsible for many coming to a saving belief in Him. Her story was written beautifully.
These four novellas are woven together by Naomi Craig and Dona Lane in a beautiful book of faith, forgiveness, and transformation. Staying true to Scripture, the authors have given us fictional depictions of lives in the early first century. Written in the first person, parts of this book left me completely undone.
I highly recommend this book and hopefully anticipating a second book from these two talented authors.
I was given a copy by the authors and was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Stephen, a fierce defender of Jesus and the first martyr of the church encounters Jesus on the cross and his life is changed forever.
Ananias, who witnessed Stephen’s stoning and the destruction caused by Saul’s relentless searching and persecution of those who follow Jesus and is asked of God to do the very hard thing, forgive.
Barnabas, known as the encourager and traveling companion to John Mark and Paul, was full of doubt and insecurities but follows where called anyway.
Tabitha, the dressmaker who clothes widows and those less fortunate than her. A woman who follows Jesus and is responsible for many coming to a saving belief in Him. Her story was written beautifully.
These four novellas are woven together by Naomi Craig and Dona Lane in a beautiful book of faith, forgiveness, and transformation. Staying true to Scripture, the authors have given us fictional depictions of lives in the early first century. Written in the first person, parts of this book left me completely undone.
I highly recommend this book and hopefully anticipating a second book from these two talented authors.
I was given a copy by the authors and was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
December 7, 2023
Biblical Historical Fiction is not usually a genre that I read. I felt compelled to read this book, And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane. I have read a few books by Naomi Craig and have always enjoyed her books.
I will be truthful, I wasn't sure how much I would enjoy this book. Well, I was captivated from the very first novella. The book is Four Novellas in one book. I really LOVE how the Authors have taken the Biblical Hisotry of the Beginning of the Church and turned it into a Fiction Novella. The four main characters
are Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabitha. Each has their own story and the stories are based on the Book of Acts. The book is intriguing as it has different storylines that also contain Romance and Spiritual aspects. The flow from one novella to the next is smooth. I truly enjoyed this Fiction Book of the Early Christians. I HIGHLY recommend this book to those who want to learn more about the Early Church and enjoy Fiction books. GREAT BOOK!
I will be truthful, I wasn't sure how much I would enjoy this book. Well, I was captivated from the very first novella. The book is Four Novellas in one book. I really LOVE how the Authors have taken the Biblical Hisotry of the Beginning of the Church and turned it into a Fiction Novella. The four main characters
are Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabitha. Each has their own story and the stories are based on the Book of Acts. The book is intriguing as it has different storylines that also contain Romance and Spiritual aspects. The flow from one novella to the next is smooth. I truly enjoyed this Fiction Book of the Early Christians. I HIGHLY recommend this book to those who want to learn more about the Early Church and enjoy Fiction books. GREAT BOOK!
November 20, 2023
There are very few books that start off well and continue to get better as I read them. And Their Numbers Grew is one of them. I thoroughly enjoyed reading each of these four Novellas and learned a great deal about what could have happened along the way for the four main characters.
Each story is really well connected together with the others and they tell a much bigger story about the principles of the New Testament Church. The events that are depicted within the pages of this series detailed stories from scripture beautifully and it kept me engaged.
As someone who has read multiple advanced reader copies from my fellow writers, I am grateful that I had the opportunity to read this one. I was already intrigued by the story before I received my copy and it truly did not disappoint. Keep up the good work!
Each story is really well connected together with the others and they tell a much bigger story about the principles of the New Testament Church. The events that are depicted within the pages of this series detailed stories from scripture beautifully and it kept me engaged.
As someone who has read multiple advanced reader copies from my fellow writers, I am grateful that I had the opportunity to read this one. I was already intrigued by the story before I received my copy and it truly did not disappoint. Keep up the good work!
January 22, 2026
This is actually four novellas written by two authors that read seamlessly as a single, full length novel, and the effect is riveting. Each story is told from a different perspective but picks the story up exactly where the one before leaves off, creating a fascinating account. The writing is superb and the characters are wonderfully well-developed. Both authors have written fabulous accounts by imagining the beginnings of the early Church. The faith that the early apostles must have had to be able to continue in the face of such opposition is just amazing, and this book really drives home the meaning of perseverance amidst the difficulties they must have faced. I truly found this book to be both a blessing and a wonderful read.
November 23, 2023
This collection of novellas talks about the days after Jesus' death and resurrection. It talks about the lives given for the name of Jesus. It talks about the conversion of Saul (side note: have you ever thought of the forgiveness that Christians had to extend to Saul? I never before had). If you're looking for a deep read, this book fits that bill. If you're looking for something that will open your eyes to the atrocities of life in the Roman empire as a Christian, this is the book for you. If you need a happy ending, though? This isn't the book to read. But then again, if you know where you're going, maybe it's the exact right book after all.
December 7, 2023
I thought that this was a great anthology showing the lives of people who were trying to follow Christ in the early days of Christianity. I liked seeing their faith in Christ develop and grow. I like how each person had their own unique journey that they went in to find the Savior. I thought the story was well researched and well written. I thought the authors did a great job of pulling the reader in and telling stories that could help the reader on their own faith journey. I really enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
February 13, 2026
I love reading and I especially love Bible study. Craig and Lane's novel And Their Numbers Grew is novel that gave me both of those things. The characters they chose for the narratives of Christ-followers were so real. They helped me see what it was like for the earliest believers to profess and defend their faith. I had to ask myself if I would be willing to undergo the suffering they endured. My favorite character was Tabitha, the dressmaker. I appreciate the fact that the authors included a narrative told by a female character, someone I could relate to. Overall, I would have to say this is one of the best novels I have read in a while. I applaud Craig and Lane for their work.
November 4, 2023
And Their Numbers Grew, a Biblical fiction, captures the reader’s attention by presenting the early church’s leaders as they might well have been; giving them dynamic personalities to “flesh out” the facts about them in the Bible. They were amazing people who were, like us, imperfect and flawed but teachable. Follow the stories of Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabatha as their encounter with Jesus changes them beyond their imagination, giving the fearful and hesitant courage to step out in faith and tell their story to any who will listen. I enthusiastically recommend this book!
April 22, 2024
Wow , Heart Piercing !!
My favorite is Christian Fiction! I have read over & over many books about women of The Bible . Every books out there if nothing new Will reread what I have . But this is different in The Way you feel every word ! This Anthology is life changing to New Believers !! The Holy Spirit has Anointed This Series !!! You will be Blessed !! Walk with Peter & Tabitha thru the streets of Rome .There Love For The Lord never changes . Blessing to each of you who reads this Book , Open your hearts !!
My favorite is Christian Fiction! I have read over & over many books about women of The Bible . Every books out there if nothing new Will reread what I have . But this is different in The Way you feel every word ! This Anthology is life changing to New Believers !! The Holy Spirit has Anointed This Series !!! You will be Blessed !! Walk with Peter & Tabitha thru the streets of Rome .There Love For The Lord never changes . Blessing to each of you who reads this Book , Open your hearts !!
November 7, 2023
And There Numbers Grew is a powerful book. The authors have an amazing way of writing Biblical fiction that will draw you in and you will not want to put the book down. It is book about four people and each person has their own section. Stephen, Ananis, Barnabas and Tabitha. There is so much that happens though out this book and it really made me think. It is a great read. I was given this book by the publisher all thoughts are my own. Looking forward to the next book.
December 17, 2023
As others have said, this is a novel, composed of four Novellas. Each is written so that it seamlessly flows into the next. It’s really an amazing work, considering that it is written by two different authors.
I have a hard time reading about persecution of the church… But I think that it is extremely important that these books are written. For me, it’s a time of reflection on my own faith. A time to realize the cost that many people paid, to spread the gospel to the Gentiles.
I have a hard time reading about persecution of the church… But I think that it is extremely important that these books are written. For me, it’s a time of reflection on my own faith. A time to realize the cost that many people paid, to spread the gospel to the Gentiles.
February 4, 2024
It's so easy to read through Acts quickly and not comprehend the depth of love that propelled the early believers through the world preaching Jesus in the light of such danger.
Both Donna and Naomi did an excellent job in sharing the humanity of those who followed Jesus as well as mighty power of the Spirit moving. My faith was challenged. I was moved to tears.
Fantastic read and I am looking forward to a sequel.
Both Donna and Naomi did an excellent job in sharing the humanity of those who followed Jesus as well as mighty power of the Spirit moving. My faith was challenged. I was moved to tears.
Fantastic read and I am looking forward to a sequel.
November 16, 2023
Four disciples, four destinies, one Gospel, told in four separate novellas. No doubt if you are reading Biblical fiction, you have probably read these accounts in the Bible. Author Naomi Craig and Donna Lane flesh them out and the reader gets a feel for the traditions and what could have happened. A reader’s delight!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions are my own.
December 6, 2023
Biblical fiction is actually.my favorite sub genre of Christian fiction and this one is one not to miss.
The pace of the book would need one to settle down and read it but totally worth it.
I got to see Stephen and how he came to know Christ.
Lovers of Biblical fiction I believe would love this one.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
The pace of the book would need one to settle down and read it but totally worth it.
I got to see Stephen and how he came to know Christ.
Lovers of Biblical fiction I believe would love this one.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
April 2, 2024
Enjoyed seeing how early Christians listened to the leading of the Holy Spirit. It was moving to think about how Ananias may have struggled to forgive Saul, who had killed many believers. The four novellas loosely connect the stories of Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabitha. The novellas portray men as leaders of early church communities and men and women as martyrs for their faith.
July 23, 2025
This was a fantastic Biblical fiction anthology. The Dual authors alternated their stories with different POV characters from Christ's crucifixion and Resurrection to both Herod's and Nero's reign. My faith was challenged as I read the authors' descriptions of Christians being persecuted for sharing and spreading the Gospel to the world that they were living in at that time. Highly recommended.
January 29, 2026
The four books teach great things that it is too difficult to explain. I am certain everyone will gather their own thoughts and personal teachings as they read it. It breaks the heart for what they went through and yet great joy for their faith in the end. Be ready with tissues. This was well described in detail of their possible thoughts and struggles. I highly recommend this book.
February 26, 2026
Great book!
The author did a great job of developing the characters and telling the story staying true to history. Getting to know each person really helped me understand what happened after Jesus rose from the dead much better. It brings those events alive and makes them meaningful for us personally. It's a great story and one you won't want to put down.
The author did a great job of developing the characters and telling the story staying true to history. Getting to know each person really helped me understand what happened after Jesus rose from the dead much better. It brings those events alive and makes them meaningful for us personally. It's a great story and one you won't want to put down.
February 11, 2026
New version of some beautiful bible stories.
This was an beautiful series. A different perspective of biblical stories that we know nd live.
Thank you, it was truly amazing and enjoyable.
This was an beautiful series. A different perspective of biblical stories that we know nd live.
Thank you, it was truly amazing and enjoyable.
November 20, 2023
This anthology contains story of four people from Early Church. It tells their struggles, hardships, chalanges and, most of all, their faith. It's great, inspirational book.
Read
December 9, 2023It is so nice to read a work of fiction that makes biblical stories entertaining and relatable.
February 15, 2026
Very nice writing taken from the Scriptures and adding some background and story about the growth of the Christian Church
October 1, 2024
These four interwoven stories were a delightful immersion into the period that contained the birth of the church. The reader is pulled into the drama from the first page through the eyewitness accounts of the four main characters -Stephen, Ananias, Barnabas, and Tabitha. Romance, intrigue, and character growth move the plot at an enjoyable pace that keeps you wondering what will happen next. It isn't difficult to draw spiritual parallels that are relevant today as the authors, Naomi Craig and Donna Lane, expertly connect reader and character through poignant biblical scenes that tug on the heart. The narrative touches the imagination so that Scripture is illuminated and you wonder how you would react had you been there. This book moves with the rhythm of an evangelistic heartbeat. With plenty of takeaways and concepts to ponder, these stories will not disappoint. If you enjoy biblical fiction and a moving plot, be sure to check out And Their Numbers Grew.
August 10, 2024
Wonderful book. Highly recommend! What resonates with one may not with another. The reviews on Amazon were much better than here and I chose to read it despite the one bad review here. The book is a reminder of what the disciples went through for the cause of being a follower of Jesus and how Christianity grew back in those days despite the severe repercussions associated with speaking and sharing that Jesus is Messiah. So much of their commitment brought to life in this book clearly shows what has been lost in the 21st century. This book will convict and challenge you to serve and follow Jesus as his early disciples did.
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