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The Last Disciple #3
The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus
He awoke jailed in squalor…
Would he complete his final mission?
Or would he fail to record the story only he could tell?
The epic saga of the Last Disciple continues in this captivating new Christian historical novel from Kurt Brouwer.
After surviving imprisonment, John faces two new challenges—forced exile in Ephesus, and the siege and destruction of Jerusalem by a vengeful Roman army.
Struggling with grief and despair, John doubts his ability to complete the mission entrusted to him by Mary—to write the true gospel account of Christ’s life. But in Ephesus, he finds unexpected allies—Timothy, Priscilla, and Tychicus, who share his passion for spreading the message of God’s love.
As John shares the good news of Jesus, he also makes dangerous enemies, including Alexander Cosmo, the chief priest of the Temple of Artemis.
Amid opposition from without and internal divisions from within the early church, John must also contend with an old foe--Jewish Christians who pressure believers to adopt Jewish law and compromise the radical teachings of Christ.
When tragedy strikes those close to him, John has to confront his fear by sharing the story that resides in his heart. Will he finally show the world all the signs, miracles, and events he witnessed on his journey with Jesus?
Don't miss this page-turning story of faith, courage, and love.
- GenresFictionBiblical Fiction
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2024
378 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 13, 2024
Biblical fiction can be a bit tricky because, at its best, it blends biblical accounts with a writer’s imagination, such as in “The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus.” It’s so important that it avoids stretching history to the point of inaccuracy and achieves conveying a meaningful story that inspires the reader.
In this final book in the The Last Disciple series, John awakes, beaten and bound in chains on the floor of a jail cell. It’s easy to imagine his pain and fear, and the panic that must’ve filled each breath. I empathized with the uncertainty of his outcome, as well as his deep concern for the wellbeing and whereabouts of his friends.
Once the governor sends John and his friends into exile, and admits he is impressed by John, readers begin to see the profound effect John has on those around him. This story explores John’s unwavering faith and courage, despite his doubts. This is an impactful book that reveals John’s legacy.
First Line: John’s eyes snapped open, and he turned his head wildly, straining to see something, anything!
Series: The Last Disciple, book 3
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Kurt Brouwer
Page Count: 366
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
In this final book in the The Last Disciple series, John awakes, beaten and bound in chains on the floor of a jail cell. It’s easy to imagine his pain and fear, and the panic that must’ve filled each breath. I empathized with the uncertainty of his outcome, as well as his deep concern for the wellbeing and whereabouts of his friends.
Once the governor sends John and his friends into exile, and admits he is impressed by John, readers begin to see the profound effect John has on those around him. This story explores John’s unwavering faith and courage, despite his doubts. This is an impactful book that reveals John’s legacy.
First Line: John’s eyes snapped open, and he turned his head wildly, straining to see something, anything!
Series: The Last Disciple, book 3
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Kurt Brouwer
Page Count: 366
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
May 21, 2024
Fascinating! Can't wait for the next one!
March 14, 2025
This is volume three in a four part series; it is about John, and the author is filling in the gaps for us on his idea of what John’s life was like from about 62 AD on. This book covers most of the time from AD 70-74,
Yes, it is fiction, but it is very readable and contains a variety of Scripture. The Bible quotes are worked into dialogues and some preaching. John at times will repeat from memory something Jesus said. It all occurs rather naturally and doesn’t seem forced. Emmaus and Avram and earlier, Bartholomew, are trying to write down things that John remembers. Their notes will eventually become the basis for the Book of John, the last Gospel.
John is portrayed as very human. He is older in this book, and his age shows at times. He has enemies because he is outspoken, and the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus is not happy with him or the Christians. He has his issues with the Romans, especially Domitian, who hates Christians. This book starts with John in the imperial dungeon. The Roman governor exiles John to Ephesus, which is where most of the story takes place.
John takes a road trip with Emmaus to the seven cities that appear in the first few chapters of the Book of Revelation. The travel is all by foot, and there is a story about their experience in each city. It is nicely done.
Mr. Brouwer has done his homework. There are thirty pages of notes at the end of the book. Some are the Scriptures used; some are general thoughts on timelines and so forth, and the last section are the resources he used. The list is both hard copy and digital, and it is interesting to look through.
The author makes John and Emmaus out to be real people with joys and sorrows and triumphs and setbacks. There is some humor as well, particularly with Emmaus. It’s an enjoyable read.
Yes, it is fiction, but it is very readable and contains a variety of Scripture. The Bible quotes are worked into dialogues and some preaching. John at times will repeat from memory something Jesus said. It all occurs rather naturally and doesn’t seem forced. Emmaus and Avram and earlier, Bartholomew, are trying to write down things that John remembers. Their notes will eventually become the basis for the Book of John, the last Gospel.
John is portrayed as very human. He is older in this book, and his age shows at times. He has enemies because he is outspoken, and the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus is not happy with him or the Christians. He has his issues with the Romans, especially Domitian, who hates Christians. This book starts with John in the imperial dungeon. The Roman governor exiles John to Ephesus, which is where most of the story takes place.
John takes a road trip with Emmaus to the seven cities that appear in the first few chapters of the Book of Revelation. The travel is all by foot, and there is a story about their experience in each city. It is nicely done.
Mr. Brouwer has done his homework. There are thirty pages of notes at the end of the book. Some are the Scriptures used; some are general thoughts on timelines and so forth, and the last section are the resources he used. The list is both hard copy and digital, and it is interesting to look through.
The author makes John and Emmaus out to be real people with joys and sorrows and triumphs and setbacks. There is some humor as well, particularly with Emmaus. It’s an enjoyable read.
March 5, 2024
Are you drawn to the mystique of biblical narratives woven into the fabric of historical fiction? If so, Kurt Brouwer’s “The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus” might be the next captivating read on your list. The third installment in the series delves deep into the life of the disciple John, crafting a plausible account of his exile to Ephesus.
Brouwer’s skillful storytelling brings to life the ancient world, immersing readers in the tumultuous times of early Christianity. He paints a compelling portrait of John’s journey through intricate details and vivid imagery, inviting readers to experience the apostle’s trials and triumphs firsthand.
However, it’s essential to note that this book falls squarely within the genre of Christian historical fiction. If fictionalized retellings of biblical events aren’t your tea, you should explore other genres. But for those intrigued by the intersection of faith and history, “The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus” offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that’s sure to satisfy.
To fully appreciate Brouwer’s narrative, start with the first book in the series and work your way through it. This book lets you fully immerse yourself in the characters and their journey, enhancing your reading experience.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a captivating blend of biblical truth and historical imagination, “The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus” by Kurt Brouwer is a must-read. Dive into the ancient world of the disciple John and discover a tale that resonates with timeless themes of faith, perseverance, and redemption.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Brouwer’s skillful storytelling brings to life the ancient world, immersing readers in the tumultuous times of early Christianity. He paints a compelling portrait of John’s journey through intricate details and vivid imagery, inviting readers to experience the apostle’s trials and triumphs firsthand.
However, it’s essential to note that this book falls squarely within the genre of Christian historical fiction. If fictionalized retellings of biblical events aren’t your tea, you should explore other genres. But for those intrigued by the intersection of faith and history, “The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus” offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that’s sure to satisfy.
To fully appreciate Brouwer’s narrative, start with the first book in the series and work your way through it. This book lets you fully immerse yourself in the characters and their journey, enhancing your reading experience.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a captivating blend of biblical truth and historical imagination, “The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus” by Kurt Brouwer is a must-read. Dive into the ancient world of the disciple John and discover a tale that resonates with timeless themes of faith, perseverance, and redemption.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
March 13, 2024
I am enjoying “The Last Disciple” series by author Kurt Brouwer. The main storyline of this series centers on the Biblical historical character of the Apostle John. The author has also done an excellent job of creating a community of believers that includes other characters that we find in the both the Bible and history, as well as some fictional characters that help move the story forward. The historical details and the settings help make these books seem as if you’ve stepped into that sometimes turbulent time period and are experiencing the joys and sorrows of these characters’ lives.
In this particular book, John is experiencing great challenges in the city of Ephesus. Without giving away any “spoilers” for the book, John and his friends are trying to survive in a very difficult situation in Ephesus. But John’s main task is becoming clear: He’s beginning to write his memories of His time with Jesus. Nothing comes easy for them, but as always, God has lead the way in every season of John’s life.
If you are a fan of “The Chosen”, you’ll enjoy this series that gives us a look at the later years of John’s life. It’s given me a new appreciation for what the believers must have experienced as they fearlessly shared the gospel wherever they went.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
In this particular book, John is experiencing great challenges in the city of Ephesus. Without giving away any “spoilers” for the book, John and his friends are trying to survive in a very difficult situation in Ephesus. But John’s main task is becoming clear: He’s beginning to write his memories of His time with Jesus. Nothing comes easy for them, but as always, God has lead the way in every season of John’s life.
If you are a fan of “The Chosen”, you’ll enjoy this series that gives us a look at the later years of John’s life. It’s given me a new appreciation for what the believers must have experienced as they fearlessly shared the gospel wherever they went.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
March 10, 2024
I have loved every book in this series, and this was no different. So many times I think (at least for me) we read the Bible and fail to remember these were real people like me and you, who faced real persecution and adversity. I feel like reading these books, I’m learning more about John and his fellow apostles and 1st century believers. They really bring the Bible to life. I don’t think I ever really thought about how John was contemporaries with Timothy and Paul. I guess I always thought they were farther apart in history than they actually were. The one thing I don't care for, is sometimes the unsaved Roman leaders curse when they're talking (the most used is the "d" word), it's only every so often, so I overlooked it, but it still bothers me when I run across it. Overall, these books are so good, and I can’t wait to continue this series. I definitely recommend this whole series, but start at book 1 so you can get the whole picture from the beginning.
**I received a copy of this book as part of the CelebrateLit blog team. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
**I received a copy of this book as part of the CelebrateLit blog team. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 14, 2024
An Anointed Word of Encouragement
I really enjoyed reading all 3 of the Last Disciple books. While much of it Is fiction, we certainly don't know every conversation or relationship John had after the Ascension, but these are all in keeping with what possibly could have been. The desire of Emmaus, John, and the other Christians to spread the Word, especially in written form was surely a strong force in their lives, & this is how it could be have been. And it's obvious that Brouwer knows his history, and he took great pains to portray the Great pains to portray the actual historic events occurring all around the Middle East and many of the disciples during that period. The Roman occupiers, as well as the various other cultures that were spread through out the Mediterranean region had a lot of influence on how the Word was spread, from nation to nation, through community to community. Exile, financial hardships, war displacements, all had great impacts on the populace. I would welcome more of the same type of these books, and I would strongly recommend them to anyone interested In getting a blessing.
I really enjoyed reading all 3 of the Last Disciple books. While much of it Is fiction, we certainly don't know every conversation or relationship John had after the Ascension, but these are all in keeping with what possibly could have been. The desire of Emmaus, John, and the other Christians to spread the Word, especially in written form was surely a strong force in their lives, & this is how it could be have been. And it's obvious that Brouwer knows his history, and he took great pains to portray the Great pains to portray the actual historic events occurring all around the Middle East and many of the disciples during that period. The Roman occupiers, as well as the various other cultures that were spread through out the Mediterranean region had a lot of influence on how the Word was spread, from nation to nation, through community to community. Exile, financial hardships, war displacements, all had great impacts on the populace. I would welcome more of the same type of these books, and I would strongly recommend them to anyone interested In getting a blessing.
March 7, 2024
This novel is a good continuation of a fictional later life of the disciple John. I like how Brouwer weaves into the story actual historical events, such as the fall of Jerusalem. Included in the novel are also a number of insights into the early church, such as the meeting of believers for worship and instruction and the confrontation of heresy. He puts a human aspect on controversies like eating meat dedicated to idols. Guilds reflected pagan worship and Christians would face not being able to work if they maintained their Christian beliefs. My favorite part of this novel was John saying or hearing snippets of what would become his gospel.
This is an entertaining novel that provides an interesting possibility of the kind of life and ministry John had in the years following the death and resurrection of Jesus. Brouwer has done a great deal of research to provide readers with a realistic fictional account of the later life of John.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
This is an entertaining novel that provides an interesting possibility of the kind of life and ministry John had in the years following the death and resurrection of Jesus. Brouwer has done a great deal of research to provide readers with a realistic fictional account of the later life of John.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 18, 2024
I enjoy reading books that follow closely to a story from the Bible. The success of the book is how parallel the two stories are and if the author expands a little to enhance the story. This book has all those qualities. The story follows John and the trials he went through as a disciple of Jesus. He endured a lot of ridicule and found himself alone at times.
The author does a good job of researching John and highlights several events from his life. There are times that the author may have inserted his own thoughts of what John thought or did in a situation but that is to be expected when it is a fictional account. I have read other books from this author and always find that he doesn’t take too much liberty in his books. I feel like I know John better and learned things I may have overlooked about him in the Bible. What inspires me about books like this is it encourages me to read the passages from the Bible to better understand about the subject of the book.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
The author does a good job of researching John and highlights several events from his life. There are times that the author may have inserted his own thoughts of what John thought or did in a situation but that is to be expected when it is a fictional account. I have read other books from this author and always find that he doesn’t take too much liberty in his books. I feel like I know John better and learned things I may have overlooked about him in the Bible. What inspires me about books like this is it encourages me to read the passages from the Bible to better understand about the subject of the book.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
February 26, 2024
The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus continues The Last Disciple series. Even though it is part of a series, I believe it can easily be read as a stand alone. However, I would not want to miss out on book one.
I really enjoyed reading The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus. I loved how the author was once again able to bring Disciple John to life. The details were vivid that made me able to visualize how he lived and what he went through. His story shows his struggles, the dangers he encounters, as well as, his faith and courage. What a fabulous read.
I am giving The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus five stars. I highly recommend it for fans and lovers of clean historical fiction. I am hoping there will be more books to come The Last Disciple series.
I received a paperback copy of Kurt Brouwer’s The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I really enjoyed reading The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus. I loved how the author was once again able to bring Disciple John to life. The details were vivid that made me able to visualize how he lived and what he went through. His story shows his struggles, the dangers he encounters, as well as, his faith and courage. What a fabulous read.
I am giving The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus five stars. I highly recommend it for fans and lovers of clean historical fiction. I am hoping there will be more books to come The Last Disciple series.
I received a paperback copy of Kurt Brouwer’s The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
March 14, 2024
This fiction tale about the life of John later in his life has enhanced the information found in the Bible and historical accounts to craft a compelling novel about this disciple who followed Jesus in the first century. Third in the series about the last apostle to live after Christ established His church, this book focuses on the persecution John faced and the issues he had to deal with to keep the church pure. The story draws readers in as they follow this respected Christian leader on his journeys and ministry. You feel like you are there as an eyewitness watching the scenes unfold. It also brings in some of the other characters named in the New Testament as well as adding fictional characters in fleshing out the drama. It comes across as realistic and authentic. You can tell the author put in lots of research for the background and setting. You may want to read this series along with the Bible for ultimate impact. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
March 10, 2024
I would highly recommend reading the prior two books first. That way, you will not miss anything, or be lost. The life of John is so vivid and so moving, so well told in this series, and in this book we start with John in prison. It doesn't matter if you know the Bible about John extremely well, because this is so well done that it connects on all kinds of new levels. The entire story is a faith builder and faith-filled. Jesus is all in and over these pages. This is so good, it would make a great Bible study group. If you think you know John, now you can get to know him and Jesus, better.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy of this book. This review is my own and a positive review is never required.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy of this book. This review is my own and a positive review is never required.
March 29, 2024
The Last Disciple keeps getting better and better. In this book, while I have read the Bible and especially the Gospel of John, some of the words of John that he says in this volume have leaped out to more vividly than when I read them from the Bible. While these books are historical fiction, Kurt Brouwer has written the series so well that I sometimes forget that some of the events are not real events.
March 6, 2024
I recommend this entire series. A reader has to remember that the book is fiction but even if there a few ideas that seems off, I found the book to be mostly consistent with the Biblical account. I have to admit that I did like the other two books better.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
December 20, 2024
GOOD TO LEARN DETAILS OF JOHN’S LIFE
Many interesting points about John’s life. It is easy to take for granted the disciple as they confront the world around them after JESUS death. We have been to Ephesus so it was a little easier to imagine what life was like There.
Many interesting points about John’s life. It is easy to take for granted the disciple as they confront the world around them after JESUS death. We have been to Ephesus so it was a little easier to imagine what life was like There.
August 28, 2024
I love the feel I’m walking with John
This series has given me a new closeness to the people Jesus called to walk with Him.
John truly lived his life sharing the Truth Of The Son Of God. He loved people in the way Christ calls all believers to react to the people we meet daily ✝️
This series has given me a new closeness to the people Jesus called to walk with Him.
John truly lived his life sharing the Truth Of The Son Of God. He loved people in the way Christ calls all believers to react to the people we meet daily ✝️
June 3, 2025
Apostle John in Ephesus
Intriguing! So interesting! So thankful for authors who take the time to do great research of the culture of ancient times & use God’s Word to write historical fiction.
Intriguing! So interesting! So thankful for authors who take the time to do great research of the culture of ancient times & use God’s Word to write historical fiction.
March 31, 2024
Such a great series.
April 25, 2024
great book
I have so enjoyed this series. I can hardly wait for book 4 to read of John’s exile on Patmus
I have so enjoyed this series. I can hardly wait for book 4 to read of John’s exile on Patmus
August 10, 2024
good Read
I just finished book 3 and can’t wait to dive into #4. It gives me a sense of John and some of his later quest and the people and the oppositions he may have encountered during his life.
I just finished book 3 and can’t wait to dive into #4. It gives me a sense of John and some of his later quest and the people and the oppositions he may have encountered during his life.
November 16, 2024
Great
Great book and informative 👍 Loved the insight to John's life and trials.
Can't wait for the next book. Thanks
Great book and informative 👍 Loved the insight to John's life and trials.
Can't wait for the next book. Thanks
April 11, 2025
Good story but inauthentic and poorly written
September 26, 2025
Love this series on what could have been John's journey from Jerusalem to Patmos.
November 13, 2025
Good easy read
This is a very well organized historical fiction account of John's life in Ephesus, intertwining known biblical verses and information.
This is a very well organized historical fiction account of John's life in Ephesus, intertwining known biblical verses and information.
August 11, 2024
captivating books
Definitely a good read ,takes me back to the time when Jesus walked the Earth with his disciples. you can tell he did a lot of research to come up with the different scenarios.
Definitely a good read ,takes me back to the time when Jesus walked the Earth with his disciples. you can tell he did a lot of research to come up with the different scenarios.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews