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Magda Revealed
What would Jesus do? This wry, irreverent, fictionalized account of his life and ministry—told from the perspective of disciple Mary Magdalene—will implode everything you thought you knew.
Jesus Christ—Yeshua, to his friends—is not happy. Two thousand years after his death, he sees Earth heading toward oblivion. Ever eager to save humanity, he asks Mary Magdalene (Magda) for help. It’s time to tell the real story of our time together, he says. Time to correct all the misinformation, misogyny, and lies spread by Peter, Paul, and the Roman Catholic Church. Still pissed that she’s been called a whore for almost two millennia, Magda resists—but ultimately, out of love for Yeshua, reluctantly agrees.
Through Magda’s words, Yeshua—to most today a symbolic, practically mythological Biblical figure—comes back to life as a man of flesh and blood, one wholly devoted to spreading his message of radical equality. Magda tells of her travels with Yeshua and his followers around Galilee, where they are menaced at every turn by Roman rulers. She relates tales of miracles and murder, jealousy and acceptance, misogyny and female empowerment. She describes her relationship with Yeshua, clarifying centuries of speculation about whether or not they were in love. And, painfully, she reveals the truth about who orchestrated his death.
But Magda’s narrative does not end there. Her life with Yeshua has taught her that she has more strength than she ever imagined, and she begins to tap into a spiritual power that is uniquely her own—the power to connect people. Magda’s true role in the history of humanity, it turns out, is just beginning to unfold.
Jesus Christ—Yeshua, to his friends—is not happy. Two thousand years after his death, he sees Earth heading toward oblivion. Ever eager to save humanity, he asks Mary Magdalene (Magda) for help. It’s time to tell the real story of our time together, he says. Time to correct all the misinformation, misogyny, and lies spread by Peter, Paul, and the Roman Catholic Church. Still pissed that she’s been called a whore for almost two millennia, Magda resists—but ultimately, out of love for Yeshua, reluctantly agrees.
Through Magda’s words, Yeshua—to most today a symbolic, practically mythological Biblical figure—comes back to life as a man of flesh and blood, one wholly devoted to spreading his message of radical equality. Magda tells of her travels with Yeshua and his followers around Galilee, where they are menaced at every turn by Roman rulers. She relates tales of miracles and murder, jealousy and acceptance, misogyny and female empowerment. She describes her relationship with Yeshua, clarifying centuries of speculation about whether or not they were in love. And, painfully, she reveals the truth about who orchestrated his death.
But Magda’s narrative does not end there. Her life with Yeshua has taught her that she has more strength than she ever imagined, and she begins to tap into a spiritual power that is uniquely her own—the power to connect people. Magda’s true role in the history of humanity, it turns out, is just beginning to unfold.
328 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2025
107 people are currently reading
3411 people want to read
About the author
Ursula Werner
11 books81 followersUrsula Werner is a writer and part-time attorney currently living in Washington D.C. with her family. She has written fiction and poetry for over 25 years, publishing one novel, The Good at Heart (2017) and two poetry chapbooks, In the Silence of the Woodruff (2006) and Rapunzel Revisited (2010). Magda Revealed is her second novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 16, 2025
Magda Reveal by Ursula Werner, This is supposed to be a retelling of the days of Jesus from Mary’s viewpoint but instead of going through all of she says what I will say is, this is a flagrant abuse of Jesus‘s story. For one thing she dismisses everything that Paul and other apostles say by saying that it was written by men and due to the previous narrative you can hear the sneer and the text.
She even insinuate that Paul lied about having a vision of Jesus on the way to Damascus and after all Paul went through for the love of his Lord what I will say is shame on you Miss Werner. not to mention a lot of other things in the narrative feel more like current day opinions as opposed to what people really thought in ancient times. I mean you’re telling me that Mary who God chose as an anointed soul would have such a negative feelings towards the other apostles… I just found it hard to get through I am just sad that someone would write such an ill advice narrative about Jesus and those he picked as like souls I thought this was going to be a legitimate re-telling for Mary’s point of view but turns out it’s just blasphemy and made up conclusions from a modern day author. So sad so so sad.#NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #UrsulaWerner, #MagdaReveal,
She even insinuate that Paul lied about having a vision of Jesus on the way to Damascus and after all Paul went through for the love of his Lord what I will say is shame on you Miss Werner. not to mention a lot of other things in the narrative feel more like current day opinions as opposed to what people really thought in ancient times. I mean you’re telling me that Mary who God chose as an anointed soul would have such a negative feelings towards the other apostles… I just found it hard to get through I am just sad that someone would write such an ill advice narrative about Jesus and those he picked as like souls I thought this was going to be a legitimate re-telling for Mary’s point of view but turns out it’s just blasphemy and made up conclusions from a modern day author. So sad so so sad.#NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #UrsulaWerner, #MagdaReveal,
April 9, 2025
This book gives Mary Magdalene a fresh and powerful voice. Told from her point of view, it shows that she was much more than just a follower, she played a vital role in Jesus’ (Yeshua’s) ministry. Her story feels raw, honest, and shines a light on the strength of women often left out of history. Werner does a great job blending fact with imagination to explore early Christianity in a new way. If you’re into stories that rethink the past and give voice to the overlooked, then you should check this book out! Thank you Books Forward PR and Ursula Werner for sharing this book with me!
June 15, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book from GoodReads giveaways. I was excited & expected a historical fiction Christian novel about Mary Magdalene. This is NOT what I got. This book was VERY hard to read & honestly I would have NEVER finished it if it hadn’t been for receiving it as a Giveaway and I wanted to give an honest review. Here is my honest review:
This novel is not Christian. In fact it is anti-Christian and I would not advise anyone to read it. It portrays the Bible as false and paints Jesus Christ as just another prophet. In the end, it says that Jesus is not the Messiah, but that Mary Magdalene is the Messiah. This to me is absolute blasphemy. Also the book portrays Christ as just a man who gave into the temptations of the flesh. This is my testimony- Christ was the only sinless man who lived on this earth. He is the Messiah. He is the son of God. The Bible is the true word of God. I love & admire the women in the Bible and this novel was not an entertaining or even close to an accurate re-telling of Mary Magdalene’s life in my opinion.
In another one star review that I read on GoodReads there was a comment that ask how could anyone say this is a one star read because one star is complete garbage and I would say this book is complete garbage. Not only does it go against all Christian belief, it is also terribly written. There is nothing good about this novel & it will go in my garbage in fact.
This novel is not Christian. In fact it is anti-Christian and I would not advise anyone to read it. It portrays the Bible as false and paints Jesus Christ as just another prophet. In the end, it says that Jesus is not the Messiah, but that Mary Magdalene is the Messiah. This to me is absolute blasphemy. Also the book portrays Christ as just a man who gave into the temptations of the flesh. This is my testimony- Christ was the only sinless man who lived on this earth. He is the Messiah. He is the son of God. The Bible is the true word of God. I love & admire the women in the Bible and this novel was not an entertaining or even close to an accurate re-telling of Mary Magdalene’s life in my opinion.
In another one star review that I read on GoodReads there was a comment that ask how could anyone say this is a one star read because one star is complete garbage and I would say this book is complete garbage. Not only does it go against all Christian belief, it is also terribly written. There is nothing good about this novel & it will go in my garbage in fact.
January 15, 2025
I love books like this that reimagine a well-known story through The eyes at a different character. Think James by Percival Everett, to the Circe by Madaline Miller, and the Mists of Avalon. Magda tells the story of Jesus though the eyes of Mary Magdalen. Madlgda is warm, insightful, and a bit irreverant .
And she explains that Jesus (Yeshua in this telling) played a central role in early Christianity. But were "edited out" by the men who you're jealous of this power, but wrote down the gospels everyone has read.
You will continue to hear Magda's voice in your head long after you put the novel down.
A book to be enjoyed by Christians and non-christians alike.
And she explains that Jesus (Yeshua in this telling) played a central role in early Christianity. But were "edited out" by the men who you're jealous of this power, but wrote down the gospels everyone has read.
You will continue to hear Magda's voice in your head long after you put the novel down.
A book to be enjoyed by Christians and non-christians alike.
July 12, 2025
I always appreciate a good reimagining of a common tale. I love how this story is told directly from Magda's POV. I love how it takes the Christian mythology and provides a viable alternative to the popular narrative. This book is a feminist fictional reinterpretation of a fictional book. Solid writing. Good narration. But don't read it if you are sensitive to criticism of the Catholic church...it will just irritate you.
November 8, 2025
Not for Christians
I enjoyed this book immensely! But be warned that the author has not much good to say about (male) Church hierarchy.
I agree, and found this book to be a fascinating tale, an entirely believable alternate history. Five stars PLUS !!!
I enjoyed this book immensely! But be warned that the author has not much good to say about (male) Church hierarchy.
I agree, and found this book to be a fascinating tale, an entirely believable alternate history. Five stars PLUS !!!
June 17, 2025
I followed him into the tiny settlement, staying close to his side, unsure what to expect. I call it a settlement, but really it wasn’t much more than a ragtag collection of tattered and element-battered animal skins pulled over a makeshift framework of tree branches. (Think of your modern-day tent cities, homeless people squatting under highway ramps. Different time, same societal purge.)
Thus I learned the fundamental principle of Yeshua’s ministry, which I now pass on to you: radical equality. That’s right, everyone on Earth is equal. No one is better or worse than anyone else. We may look different on the outside, we may come from different cultures, but in essence, deep within, we are all exactly the same. Sounds like a simple concept, doesn’t it? Ah, but simplicity can be deceptive. Because the human ego is powerful. Because the last thing you want is to be just like someone else, right? You want to be richer, smarter, more powerful, more attractive. Everyone has their adjective. Everyone wants to be “better than” in some way.
Matthew and Luke both documented the “Sermon on the Mount” in their gospels. I’ll save you a trip to your Bible and summarize it here: You are all the same, Yeshua said, so love one another. And be humble. Nobody is “better than” anyone else. You. Are. Equal. If there was anything that got to Yeshua, it was one person’s attempt to exercise power or authority over another. He spent his life trying to convince us of our fundamental internal sameness. Seek that sameness in yourself, Yeshua urged, find it in others, and you will intuitively know how to live your life.
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in our philosophy,” Hamlet says. Insightful man, that Shakespeare. In the vast cosmos of universes among universes that exist beyond the atmosphere of your Earth, do you really think that the one tiny speck of life you know as mankind could come to understand everything there is to know about everything? The Greeks called that hubris. I call it arrogance. But I’m not here to debate. I’m here to tell my story, a story that has been stifled for far too long. Had my story been allowed to spread from the beginning, had Yeshua’s vision been conveyed and launched in good faith, unimpeded . . . well, it might all have been different.
Maybe you’ve read the Quartet, or you’ve seen one of the countless films about Yeshua’s last week on Earth, so you think you know all the details of this part of the story. Believe me, you don’t. Much of what the Quartet wrote was completely fabricated. That “triumphal” entry into Jerusalem, where Yeshua sat on the back of a donkey, with the masses celebrating his arrival, fanning him with palm leaves, calling him the Son of David? Didn’t happen. The Last Supper, where he broke bread and sipped wine and told our group that in the future we should symbolically cannibalize him? Yes, we all shared a final Passover meal, but no one was told to drink anyone’s blood, either literally or figuratively. And the crucifixion? Well, on that subject, let me remind you that the Quartet couldn’t possibly know any details about that event. Their accounts, which are theoretically based on stories told to scribes by the men in our group, can’t be taken as true. Why? Because none of the men were there! That’s right, the moment Yeshua was sentenced to death, right after they dragged him off to be flogged, our men disappeared, fearful that they might be next. They hightailed it to Galilee. Yohanna and I remained. Nobody in those days would think of arresting a woman. Because, of course, we weren’t dangerous.
Most numerous were the brokers who exchanged money, the money changers. Every Jew who came to the Temple was required under Jewish law to offer not just an animal sacrifice but a monetary contribution: the Temple’s annual tax of half a shekel. But you couldn’t pay the tax with whatever local currency you brought from home: the High Priest had decreed that the tax be paid in a particular kind of coin, a specific priest-sanctioned shekel. So pilgrims took their “filthy” native coins to a money changer’s table and, for a hefty fee, received the equivalent in “pure” shekels.
Remember, it was Passover. A holy time, not a time to be running around killing people. This rationale, along with the fact that the common people appeared to love Yeshua, gave the Temple priests pause. Because, let’s face it, it doesn’t look good to interrupt your slaughter of the sacrificial lambs so you can slit the throat of a prophet, no matter how false you think he is.
Iimagine some of you aren’t totally on board at this point. Not everyone buys the resurrection story. Who’s to say I wasn’t hallucinating? Underfed, overheated, probably dehydrated, certainly distraught—all the elements were in place for me to have a vision of my own fancy. I desperately wanted Yeshua to be alive, so he appeared before me. Well, I’m not going to argue the point. I know what I saw, and I know I wasn’t dreaming. But I also know that I’m never going to convince you, so believe what you like. Let me suggest, however, that if what I saw was nothing more than a figment of my imagination, that figment was remarkably persistent and equally visible to others. Over the next few weeks, Yeshua appeared repeatedly before everyone in our fellowship. Bravo me, for creating such a convincing hallucination and sending it out to roam. Or do you think everyone was dehydrated and distraught to exactly the same degree, conjuring up exactly the same ghost?
As my narrative now heads to Damascus, I must introduce you to Paul. I won’t call him Saint Paul or Paul the Apostle, because he was neither, not in my book. The Paul I knew was an ordinary man—an ambitious, religiously-fanatical man. The religion didn’t matter, the fanaticism did.
Thus I learned the fundamental principle of Yeshua’s ministry, which I now pass on to you: radical equality. That’s right, everyone on Earth is equal. No one is better or worse than anyone else. We may look different on the outside, we may come from different cultures, but in essence, deep within, we are all exactly the same. Sounds like a simple concept, doesn’t it? Ah, but simplicity can be deceptive. Because the human ego is powerful. Because the last thing you want is to be just like someone else, right? You want to be richer, smarter, more powerful, more attractive. Everyone has their adjective. Everyone wants to be “better than” in some way.
Matthew and Luke both documented the “Sermon on the Mount” in their gospels. I’ll save you a trip to your Bible and summarize it here: You are all the same, Yeshua said, so love one another. And be humble. Nobody is “better than” anyone else. You. Are. Equal. If there was anything that got to Yeshua, it was one person’s attempt to exercise power or authority over another. He spent his life trying to convince us of our fundamental internal sameness. Seek that sameness in yourself, Yeshua urged, find it in others, and you will intuitively know how to live your life.
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in our philosophy,” Hamlet says. Insightful man, that Shakespeare. In the vast cosmos of universes among universes that exist beyond the atmosphere of your Earth, do you really think that the one tiny speck of life you know as mankind could come to understand everything there is to know about everything? The Greeks called that hubris. I call it arrogance. But I’m not here to debate. I’m here to tell my story, a story that has been stifled for far too long. Had my story been allowed to spread from the beginning, had Yeshua’s vision been conveyed and launched in good faith, unimpeded . . . well, it might all have been different.
Maybe you’ve read the Quartet, or you’ve seen one of the countless films about Yeshua’s last week on Earth, so you think you know all the details of this part of the story. Believe me, you don’t. Much of what the Quartet wrote was completely fabricated. That “triumphal” entry into Jerusalem, where Yeshua sat on the back of a donkey, with the masses celebrating his arrival, fanning him with palm leaves, calling him the Son of David? Didn’t happen. The Last Supper, where he broke bread and sipped wine and told our group that in the future we should symbolically cannibalize him? Yes, we all shared a final Passover meal, but no one was told to drink anyone’s blood, either literally or figuratively. And the crucifixion? Well, on that subject, let me remind you that the Quartet couldn’t possibly know any details about that event. Their accounts, which are theoretically based on stories told to scribes by the men in our group, can’t be taken as true. Why? Because none of the men were there! That’s right, the moment Yeshua was sentenced to death, right after they dragged him off to be flogged, our men disappeared, fearful that they might be next. They hightailed it to Galilee. Yohanna and I remained. Nobody in those days would think of arresting a woman. Because, of course, we weren’t dangerous.
Most numerous were the brokers who exchanged money, the money changers. Every Jew who came to the Temple was required under Jewish law to offer not just an animal sacrifice but a monetary contribution: the Temple’s annual tax of half a shekel. But you couldn’t pay the tax with whatever local currency you brought from home: the High Priest had decreed that the tax be paid in a particular kind of coin, a specific priest-sanctioned shekel. So pilgrims took their “filthy” native coins to a money changer’s table and, for a hefty fee, received the equivalent in “pure” shekels.
Remember, it was Passover. A holy time, not a time to be running around killing people. This rationale, along with the fact that the common people appeared to love Yeshua, gave the Temple priests pause. Because, let’s face it, it doesn’t look good to interrupt your slaughter of the sacrificial lambs so you can slit the throat of a prophet, no matter how false you think he is.
Iimagine some of you aren’t totally on board at this point. Not everyone buys the resurrection story. Who’s to say I wasn’t hallucinating? Underfed, overheated, probably dehydrated, certainly distraught—all the elements were in place for me to have a vision of my own fancy. I desperately wanted Yeshua to be alive, so he appeared before me. Well, I’m not going to argue the point. I know what I saw, and I know I wasn’t dreaming. But I also know that I’m never going to convince you, so believe what you like. Let me suggest, however, that if what I saw was nothing more than a figment of my imagination, that figment was remarkably persistent and equally visible to others. Over the next few weeks, Yeshua appeared repeatedly before everyone in our fellowship. Bravo me, for creating such a convincing hallucination and sending it out to roam. Or do you think everyone was dehydrated and distraught to exactly the same degree, conjuring up exactly the same ghost?
As my narrative now heads to Damascus, I must introduce you to Paul. I won’t call him Saint Paul or Paul the Apostle, because he was neither, not in my book. The Paul I knew was an ordinary man—an ambitious, religiously-fanatical man. The religion didn’t matter, the fanaticism did.
November 26, 2024
"Magda Revealed" was a wonderful read that is perfect for anyone interested in historical fiction or novels about religion and spirituality. It was a refreshing take on an older story that Wener breathed new life into. I highly recommend this book!
April 30, 2025
'Call me Magda', invites Mary Magdalene, and I'll tell you the truth about Jesus and I...
Mary Magdalene has been the subject of much discussion in the two thousand odd years since she, Jesus and Jesus' disciples preached in ancient Galilee. Now, in Ursula Werner's modern retelling of Mary's life, 'Magda' gives readers her own version of events to counteract the past, 'Two thousand years of misinterpretation, cover-up, deception, and yes, outright lies.' First of all, she wasn't a prostitute. That was just an error promulgated by Pope Gregory I, who 'couldn't keep his Mary's straight'.
-- What's it about? --
Focusing primarily on events which took place during Jesus' last year of life, 'Magda Revealed' presents a familiar set of events through an unfamiliar perspective and, in so doing, simultaneously humanises Jesus (or 'Yeshua', as he is named throughout,) and reinforces his message of radical equality. This is a Jesus who had bad dreams and was troubled by them, who struggled with his destiny.
There is a similar reimagining of Judas, who becomes Judah, a man racked with personal anguish that prevents him fully comprehending Jesus' core message, even as he strives to promote it, and Peter, whose deeply embedded misogyny means that he and Paul will ultimately construct a church that deliberately excludes women.
-- What's it like? --
From the outset, Magda's tone is strikingly contemporary, describing Yeshua as having an 'ace up his sleeve' and assuring readers that 'you guessed it'. She also has a very modern sense of humour, telling us that Yeshua has been watching humanity evolve for the last two thousand years and that, 'He uses the word "evolve" with a straight face.' I enjoyed the narrative voice, which is of course primarily a first person narration - Mary reclaiming her story in her words - but also makes frequent reference to the reader, deliberately breaking the fourth wall to challenge readers, especially when the storyline strays into the transcendental.
There's a brilliant mix of myth and what feels like reality: Jesus' mother's claim to be a virgin is met with deep scepticism by her neighbourhood and results in an uncomfortable childhood for Jesus. Similarly, his invocation to 'turn the other cheek' is met with real passion by a character whose past has been fleshed out for us, putting grey meat on the ethical bones of this dilemma. What good would turning the other cheek do, demands this man, when Roman conquerors will simply kill me? This pain, and Magda's discomfort with this pain, vividly illuminates the challenges at the heart of Jesus' teachings in a way that Yeshua's own simple message cannot achieve.
I love a well structured book and here the prologue and epilogue frame the main narrative perfectly, further embedding the image of Yeshua / Jesus as both human and timeless when Magda / Mary tells us that, 'I hate it when he sulks', but follows this with discussions about the future of humankind.
-- Final thoughts --
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this intriguing reimagining of Mary Magdalen's life, and the final message of Jesus' teachings, as presented by Magda, certainly seems a more appealing version than Peter and Paul's take. I really enjoy reading historical fiction that inspires me to want to research the actual history, and 'Magda Revealed' certainly achieved that. From my, admittedly limited, reading around the subject, the novel seems to be thoroughly grounded in the traditional Christian narrative, although I suspect some Christians may be unimpressed by Magda's final role in the novel and her suggestions regarding Paul's damascene conversion.
For me, the only niggle was Werner's presentation of men and women's roles during childbirth, during which Magda claims that, 'Nobody suffered more [than the woman's husband] during the day and a half' long labour because 'At least she [the labouring woman] had a purpose'. In such a feminist book, this suggestion that a man suffered more than a woman because he felt impotent to help her as she laboured for hours on end, felt like a very odd departure from the overall tone, even if Magda adds that she has no intention to 'minimize the pain of...labour'. Sweetheart, you just did.
Other than this, I really enjoyed the storytelling, although Magda was right: I made no effort to believe when religious / supernatural phenomena arose; I simply accepted it as part of the tale being told.
An enjoyable, intriguing and deeply contemporary retelling of a traditional narrative.
Many thanks to Rachel Lachney of Books Forward for providing me with a free copy of this book. This is my honest review.
Mary Magdalene has been the subject of much discussion in the two thousand odd years since she, Jesus and Jesus' disciples preached in ancient Galilee. Now, in Ursula Werner's modern retelling of Mary's life, 'Magda' gives readers her own version of events to counteract the past, 'Two thousand years of misinterpretation, cover-up, deception, and yes, outright lies.' First of all, she wasn't a prostitute. That was just an error promulgated by Pope Gregory I, who 'couldn't keep his Mary's straight'.
-- What's it about? --
Focusing primarily on events which took place during Jesus' last year of life, 'Magda Revealed' presents a familiar set of events through an unfamiliar perspective and, in so doing, simultaneously humanises Jesus (or 'Yeshua', as he is named throughout,) and reinforces his message of radical equality. This is a Jesus who had bad dreams and was troubled by them, who struggled with his destiny.
There is a similar reimagining of Judas, who becomes Judah, a man racked with personal anguish that prevents him fully comprehending Jesus' core message, even as he strives to promote it, and Peter, whose deeply embedded misogyny means that he and Paul will ultimately construct a church that deliberately excludes women.
-- What's it like? --
From the outset, Magda's tone is strikingly contemporary, describing Yeshua as having an 'ace up his sleeve' and assuring readers that 'you guessed it'. She also has a very modern sense of humour, telling us that Yeshua has been watching humanity evolve for the last two thousand years and that, 'He uses the word "evolve" with a straight face.' I enjoyed the narrative voice, which is of course primarily a first person narration - Mary reclaiming her story in her words - but also makes frequent reference to the reader, deliberately breaking the fourth wall to challenge readers, especially when the storyline strays into the transcendental.
There's a brilliant mix of myth and what feels like reality: Jesus' mother's claim to be a virgin is met with deep scepticism by her neighbourhood and results in an uncomfortable childhood for Jesus. Similarly, his invocation to 'turn the other cheek' is met with real passion by a character whose past has been fleshed out for us, putting grey meat on the ethical bones of this dilemma. What good would turning the other cheek do, demands this man, when Roman conquerors will simply kill me? This pain, and Magda's discomfort with this pain, vividly illuminates the challenges at the heart of Jesus' teachings in a way that Yeshua's own simple message cannot achieve.
I love a well structured book and here the prologue and epilogue frame the main narrative perfectly, further embedding the image of Yeshua / Jesus as both human and timeless when Magda / Mary tells us that, 'I hate it when he sulks', but follows this with discussions about the future of humankind.
-- Final thoughts --
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this intriguing reimagining of Mary Magdalen's life, and the final message of Jesus' teachings, as presented by Magda, certainly seems a more appealing version than Peter and Paul's take. I really enjoy reading historical fiction that inspires me to want to research the actual history, and 'Magda Revealed' certainly achieved that. From my, admittedly limited, reading around the subject, the novel seems to be thoroughly grounded in the traditional Christian narrative, although I suspect some Christians may be unimpressed by Magda's final role in the novel and her suggestions regarding Paul's damascene conversion.
For me, the only niggle was Werner's presentation of men and women's roles during childbirth, during which Magda claims that, 'Nobody suffered more [than the woman's husband] during the day and a half' long labour because 'At least she [the labouring woman] had a purpose'. In such a feminist book, this suggestion that a man suffered more than a woman because he felt impotent to help her as she laboured for hours on end, felt like a very odd departure from the overall tone, even if Magda adds that she has no intention to 'minimize the pain of...labour'. Sweetheart, you just did.
Other than this, I really enjoyed the storytelling, although Magda was right: I made no effort to believe when religious / supernatural phenomena arose; I simply accepted it as part of the tale being told.
An enjoyable, intriguing and deeply contemporary retelling of a traditional narrative.
Many thanks to Rachel Lachney of Books Forward for providing me with a free copy of this book. This is my honest review.
July 5, 2024
Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner offers a profound exploration of Mary Magdalene's life, reimagined through the lens of historical fiction. Werner delves into Magdalene's deep connection with Yeshua (Jesus) and highlights her significant role in recounting their shared experiences, often overshadowed by figures like Peter and Paul. Through vivid and compelling storytelling, Werner portrays Magda as a woman of wisdom and bravery, illuminating both the spiritual and historical dimensions of her journey.
The narrative seamlessly blends true accounts with imaginative storytelling, providing readers with a fresh perspective on well-known biblical events. Werner's depiction of Magda challenges conventional interpretations, celebrating her as a central figure with agency and insight. The book invites readers to reconsider Magdalene's legacy, presenting her as a beacon of strength and authenticity in a story rich with ancient history and timeless spiritual truths. Werner's work offers a daring and fresh look at the life of Mary Magdalene, a figure often misunderstood and misrepresented. She gives Magda a voice, filling her story with rich detail and new insights.
From the outset, the book captures the reader's attention as Magda speaks directly to them, asking them to set aside their preconceptions. This approach makes the story feel personal and intense, with vivid and engaging writing that brings the ancient world to life. Although the religious themes can be challenging, the beautiful and poetic writing helps to navigate through them. The book is informative and offers an unbiased perspective, making it an enlightening read. Magda's character stands out as a highlight; she is depicted as intelligent and resilient, determined to share her truth despite the obstacles she faces. The book also delves into the power struggles and biases that have kept her story hidden, adding a thought-provoking layer to the narrative. Werner's thorough research adds depth and authenticity throughout the novel. The relationship between Magda and Yeshua is explored with tenderness and complexity, humanizing both figures and showcasing their connection and shared vision for a compassionate world. One of the most compelling themes is the critique of patriarchal structures that have shaped religious narratives. Through Magda's story, Werner challenges these structures and highlights the enduring impact of those who dare to tell the truth.
Magda Revealed is a beautifully written novel that reclaims the story of Mary Magdalene. It is a compelling read for anyone interested in historical fiction, spirituality, or the untold stories of influential women. The storytelling invites readers to reflect on the power of truth and the legacy of those who fight to share it.
The narrative seamlessly blends true accounts with imaginative storytelling, providing readers with a fresh perspective on well-known biblical events. Werner's depiction of Magda challenges conventional interpretations, celebrating her as a central figure with agency and insight. The book invites readers to reconsider Magdalene's legacy, presenting her as a beacon of strength and authenticity in a story rich with ancient history and timeless spiritual truths. Werner's work offers a daring and fresh look at the life of Mary Magdalene, a figure often misunderstood and misrepresented. She gives Magda a voice, filling her story with rich detail and new insights.
From the outset, the book captures the reader's attention as Magda speaks directly to them, asking them to set aside their preconceptions. This approach makes the story feel personal and intense, with vivid and engaging writing that brings the ancient world to life. Although the religious themes can be challenging, the beautiful and poetic writing helps to navigate through them. The book is informative and offers an unbiased perspective, making it an enlightening read. Magda's character stands out as a highlight; she is depicted as intelligent and resilient, determined to share her truth despite the obstacles she faces. The book also delves into the power struggles and biases that have kept her story hidden, adding a thought-provoking layer to the narrative. Werner's thorough research adds depth and authenticity throughout the novel. The relationship between Magda and Yeshua is explored with tenderness and complexity, humanizing both figures and showcasing their connection and shared vision for a compassionate world. One of the most compelling themes is the critique of patriarchal structures that have shaped religious narratives. Through Magda's story, Werner challenges these structures and highlights the enduring impact of those who dare to tell the truth.
Magda Revealed is a beautifully written novel that reclaims the story of Mary Magdalene. It is a compelling read for anyone interested in historical fiction, spirituality, or the untold stories of influential women. The storytelling invites readers to reflect on the power of truth and the legacy of those who fight to share it.
July 5, 2025
Full review at: https://readingourshelves.wordpress.c...
The idea that Magda is telling the story from our time now is only referenced at the beginning and end. (It’d be like saying Peter Falk was the star of “The Princess Bride,” if that reference makes sense to you.)
The bulk of the book is the story of Mary Magdalene’s life, before and after her time with Yeshua, and her time with Him and the other Disciples. We’ll call it historical fiction, because who’s to say what really happened?
What makes this one compelling is that it’s told from a female perspective, and also that it differs from some of what we’ve heard from the Gospels written by men. The basic plot points are there – dinner with His followers the night before the execution, the trial before Pilate, the stone being rolled away when the women return to the burial tomb, etc. Most Christians, or students of history, probably know the beats of this one.
In this version, there are several female Disciples. They have distinct personalities, and I loved this aspect of the story. In this author’s version of events, Yeshua and Magda were intimate. This wouldn’t be the first time in written fiction that’s been proposed (Dan Brown).
One of the stories I found most interesting in this one was actually that of Judas, called Judah here. She spins his famous betrayal of Jesus as a push for Yeshua to reveal His Divinity. Judah honestly believes until the end that Yeshua will save Himself, and that’ll prove to every witness who He really is. This train of thought really humanized that character.
Magda has no love for Peter, although she tries her best. He always seems doubtful that women should have equal rights in Yeshua’s band of travelers. And later, Paul really stokes her anger. He never even heard Yeshua preach while He was alive, so why is it Paul who is entrusted to tell the whole world who He was?
The author’s story aligns more with Protestant Christianity, in that she presents Jesus as having actual brothers in this tale. (As in, Mary had more children after Him.)
There is one other twist at the very end that would probably rock hardcore believers. But I’ll leave that spoiler for those who want to delve into this one!
The idea that Magda is telling the story from our time now is only referenced at the beginning and end. (It’d be like saying Peter Falk was the star of “The Princess Bride,” if that reference makes sense to you.)
The bulk of the book is the story of Mary Magdalene’s life, before and after her time with Yeshua, and her time with Him and the other Disciples. We’ll call it historical fiction, because who’s to say what really happened?
What makes this one compelling is that it’s told from a female perspective, and also that it differs from some of what we’ve heard from the Gospels written by men. The basic plot points are there – dinner with His followers the night before the execution, the trial before Pilate, the stone being rolled away when the women return to the burial tomb, etc. Most Christians, or students of history, probably know the beats of this one.
In this version, there are several female Disciples. They have distinct personalities, and I loved this aspect of the story. In this author’s version of events, Yeshua and Magda were intimate. This wouldn’t be the first time in written fiction that’s been proposed (Dan Brown).
One of the stories I found most interesting in this one was actually that of Judas, called Judah here. She spins his famous betrayal of Jesus as a push for Yeshua to reveal His Divinity. Judah honestly believes until the end that Yeshua will save Himself, and that’ll prove to every witness who He really is. This train of thought really humanized that character.
Magda has no love for Peter, although she tries her best. He always seems doubtful that women should have equal rights in Yeshua’s band of travelers. And later, Paul really stokes her anger. He never even heard Yeshua preach while He was alive, so why is it Paul who is entrusted to tell the whole world who He was?
The author’s story aligns more with Protestant Christianity, in that she presents Jesus as having actual brothers in this tale. (As in, Mary had more children after Him.)
There is one other twist at the very end that would probably rock hardcore believers. But I’ll leave that spoiler for those who want to delve into this one!
May 26, 2025
"Magda Revealed" dénonce 2000 ans de supercheries dues à de frauduleuses interprétations de l'évangile. Les apôtres Pierre et Paul auraient détournée volontairement l'histoire biblique réelle de celle narrée par l'église catholique et romaine, excluant radicalement le personnage de Magda.
C'est l'histoire du sublime récit de la rencontre entre Jeshua et Magda, mûe en une connivence exceptionnelle, entre le Maître et son disciple. Obéissante et totalement dévouée, puis éprise, celle-ci se donnera toute entière à sa cause, et perfectionnera son don pour oindre et soulager les blessures des âmes.
L'évangile, telle que connue de nos jours, s'appuie sur celle de Mathieu au 1er siècle, et perdure, réécrite maintes fois par Luc, Pierre, Paul, Jean...chacun passant sous silence, et remaniant les préceptes divins, afin de mieux museler leurs fidèles, et leur transmettre la peur.
Ce récit, magnifiquement raconté, poétique immensément riche de sens m'a transporté ; il dénonce la scission qui a déchiré l'église catholique romaine contre les enseignements sains instruits par Jeshua, et martèle la convoitise exacerbée du Pape de l'époque, qui avait ordonné le massacre des infidèles afin de s'approprier leurs terres.
Le plus édifiant est l'affirmation selon laquelle Jeshua n'était pas vierge, et que c'est l'église qui est à l'origine de ce dogme, de façon à mieux asservir et contrôler prêtres et fidèles.
Magda ; Madeleine ou Myriam, la prostituée dans le nouveau testament, devient l'épouse de Jeshua, et partage avec lui la même communion extatique, spirituelle et divine. Elle devient, dès lors, la toute première - et unique - apôtre de Jeshua, son élue et porte-parole. Ce que démentiront les évangiles traîtresse qui suivront.
J'ai adoré, lisez-le !
Une incursion majestueuse et immensément émouvante.
This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
C'est l'histoire du sublime récit de la rencontre entre Jeshua et Magda, mûe en une connivence exceptionnelle, entre le Maître et son disciple. Obéissante et totalement dévouée, puis éprise, celle-ci se donnera toute entière à sa cause, et perfectionnera son don pour oindre et soulager les blessures des âmes.
L'évangile, telle que connue de nos jours, s'appuie sur celle de Mathieu au 1er siècle, et perdure, réécrite maintes fois par Luc, Pierre, Paul, Jean...chacun passant sous silence, et remaniant les préceptes divins, afin de mieux museler leurs fidèles, et leur transmettre la peur.
Ce récit, magnifiquement raconté, poétique immensément riche de sens m'a transporté ; il dénonce la scission qui a déchiré l'église catholique romaine contre les enseignements sains instruits par Jeshua, et martèle la convoitise exacerbée du Pape de l'époque, qui avait ordonné le massacre des infidèles afin de s'approprier leurs terres.
Le plus édifiant est l'affirmation selon laquelle Jeshua n'était pas vierge, et que c'est l'église qui est à l'origine de ce dogme, de façon à mieux asservir et contrôler prêtres et fidèles.
Magda ; Madeleine ou Myriam, la prostituée dans le nouveau testament, devient l'épouse de Jeshua, et partage avec lui la même communion extatique, spirituelle et divine. Elle devient, dès lors, la toute première - et unique - apôtre de Jeshua, son élue et porte-parole. Ce que démentiront les évangiles traîtresse qui suivront.
J'ai adoré, lisez-le !
Une incursion majestueuse et immensément émouvante.
This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
August 6, 2025
MY THOUGHTS -
Well this was certainly a thought provoking book. While reading this, you have to keep in mind that this is a work of fiction. It is not based on biblical fact and it is not a Christian based historical book. It is a fictional story of what Mary Magdalene’s life could’ve been from the viewpoint of Mary herself. It did have some elements of faith in it. I’m not saying it didn’t have any. It just didn’t stick to facts from the Bible.
So, keeping all of that in mind, I actually did enjoy this book. I think if I had read this book expecting it to be based the Bible I don’t think I would’ve liked it as much. But, I do have an open mind and I was able to enjoy this for what it was.
Mary Magdalene is actually my favorite person from the Bible and I enjoyed listening to this fictional account of her life. The one thing I really loved about it is it was told in first person from Mary herself and she tells it as though she is a modern woman from today, telling us what happened all those many many years ago.
I listened to the audio version of this. I loved the narrator, Mallory Fuccella! I thought she did a wonderful job. A reader can make it or break it for me in an audio book and I thought this one did an excellent job.
This book is not for everyone. If you can stand a little controversy, I would give this one go! Just let loose and allow yourself to read something fiction based on a person from the Bible. It might surprise you!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from RABT Book Tours & PR - Thank You!!
Well this was certainly a thought provoking book. While reading this, you have to keep in mind that this is a work of fiction. It is not based on biblical fact and it is not a Christian based historical book. It is a fictional story of what Mary Magdalene’s life could’ve been from the viewpoint of Mary herself. It did have some elements of faith in it. I’m not saying it didn’t have any. It just didn’t stick to facts from the Bible.
So, keeping all of that in mind, I actually did enjoy this book. I think if I had read this book expecting it to be based the Bible I don’t think I would’ve liked it as much. But, I do have an open mind and I was able to enjoy this for what it was.
Mary Magdalene is actually my favorite person from the Bible and I enjoyed listening to this fictional account of her life. The one thing I really loved about it is it was told in first person from Mary herself and she tells it as though she is a modern woman from today, telling us what happened all those many many years ago.
I listened to the audio version of this. I loved the narrator, Mallory Fuccella! I thought she did a wonderful job. A reader can make it or break it for me in an audio book and I thought this one did an excellent job.
This book is not for everyone. If you can stand a little controversy, I would give this one go! Just let loose and allow yourself to read something fiction based on a person from the Bible. It might surprise you!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from RABT Book Tours & PR - Thank You!!
November 8, 2025
Mary Magdalene finally raises her voice and what she has to say w(ill surprise, stun, and shock you!
I don't usually go in for biblical historical re‐telling but I also didn’t expect to connect with a woman who lived two thousand years ago. Magda Revealed isn’t just historical fiction rehashing—it’s a womans voice and her own telling of her story it isn’t soft-spoken It’s loud, it's wit, it's heartbreak, and it's clarity.
Magda’s voice is unapologetically modern. She’s sarcastic, she’s tired of being misrepresented, and she’s ready to burn down centuries of dogma. She’s not a footnote in this one. She’s the story.
Magda’s voice is raw, furious, and free. You'll find yourself sitting in stunned silence as she recounts the emotional toll of being erased, vilified, and silenced.
What struck me most was how this author humanizes Yeshua—not just as a spiritual figure, but as a man grappling with destiny, doubt, and love. Their relationship isn’t romanticized; it’s raw and layered. Magda doesn’t just walk beside him—she challenges him, comforts him, and ultimately survives him. And that survival feels like the true miracle.
The book doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths. The reinterpretations within aren’t just provocative—they force one to contemplate how history is shaped by those who hold the pen.
Reading Magda Revealed is like listening to a woman who’s waited two millennia to tell her story. She’s not asking for permission. She is demanding to be heard.
Every woman and especially Christian woman should read this book
I don't usually go in for biblical historical re‐telling but I also didn’t expect to connect with a woman who lived two thousand years ago. Magda Revealed isn’t just historical fiction rehashing—it’s a womans voice and her own telling of her story it isn’t soft-spoken It’s loud, it's wit, it's heartbreak, and it's clarity.
Magda’s voice is unapologetically modern. She’s sarcastic, she’s tired of being misrepresented, and she’s ready to burn down centuries of dogma. She’s not a footnote in this one. She’s the story.
Magda’s voice is raw, furious, and free. You'll find yourself sitting in stunned silence as she recounts the emotional toll of being erased, vilified, and silenced.
What struck me most was how this author humanizes Yeshua—not just as a spiritual figure, but as a man grappling with destiny, doubt, and love. Their relationship isn’t romanticized; it’s raw and layered. Magda doesn’t just walk beside him—she challenges him, comforts him, and ultimately survives him. And that survival feels like the true miracle.
The book doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths. The reinterpretations within aren’t just provocative—they force one to contemplate how history is shaped by those who hold the pen.
Reading Magda Revealed is like listening to a woman who’s waited two millennia to tell her story. She’s not asking for permission. She is demanding to be heard.
Every woman and especially Christian woman should read this book
April 26, 2025
Magna is about Mary Magdalene and her relationship to Jesus, her ministry and her life. It chronicles her struggles, and trauma and how she heals and moves past it. I really like the story form or midrash style of the book, it made the characters much more relatable.
The author takes liberties with the story and the overall purpose of Magda, and I would have loved to see the research and sources behind these ideas so I could do my own research. It is interesting to realized Jesus’ relationships to his female friends and how they played a role in his ministry since the Bible doesn’t cover their stories.
There seemed to be a lot of anger and hurt geared towards the apostles that felt outside of the main character and it felt bigger and possibly more political than I thought but it was going to be going into the reading. I’m still not sold on the ending, I think it is too big of news to be just swept under the rug. If I believe in a God of the universe that at least has say in the way the world unfolds why would this huge news go so silent for so long.
Interesting read but not convincing enough to be changed history.
The author takes liberties with the story and the overall purpose of Magda, and I would have loved to see the research and sources behind these ideas so I could do my own research. It is interesting to realized Jesus’ relationships to his female friends and how they played a role in his ministry since the Bible doesn’t cover their stories.
There seemed to be a lot of anger and hurt geared towards the apostles that felt outside of the main character and it felt bigger and possibly more political than I thought but it was going to be going into the reading. I’m still not sold on the ending, I think it is too big of news to be just swept under the rug. If I believe in a God of the universe that at least has say in the way the world unfolds why would this huge news go so silent for so long.
Interesting read but not convincing enough to be changed history.
April 10, 2025
Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner is a historical narrative about Mary Magdalene from her perspective. I loved how it took a modern spin on the ancient story about Mary or Magda. She talks to the readers as friends and conversationally, which makes the story more interesting overall. I loved how the author is being historically accurate to calling Jesus, Yeshua which would have been accurate. There is so much history in this fictional account! Magda is such a emotional story about the woman who was a follower of Jesus in the time of his life. She goes on a journey throughout her life and we get to hear the story of what happened to Magda and Yeshua until his death and even afterwards of what happens to Magda for the rest of her life. And then that ending is interesting with Yeshua and Magda talking to eachother in Heaven about Magda's life story and also about the Messiah.
The writing is well written in a conversational story tone for the readers and I loved that about this book. Anyone who is a fan of Christian religion will love this book!
The writing is well written in a conversational story tone for the readers and I loved that about this book. Anyone who is a fan of Christian religion will love this book!
May 24, 2025
What if, in that misogynistic society over 2000 years ago, the woman from Magdalen was not a prostitute but a victim of gang rape (they still do that "blame the victim" thing even today)? How is it that men who were not even there provided the world with the New Testament? Are you really certain that the fishermen were literate? How positive are you that the translations of the New Testament are faithful to the original Greek and Hebrew.
In this novel interpretation, Magda is friend, supporter, companion and more to Yeshua (Jesus) but not wife nor mother. Maybe it will shake or support what you already believe. But it is guaranteed to make you think.
I won a print copy from booksforward (Independent Publicist) via LibraryThing Giveaways, it walked away to Cleveland, so I bought an audio copy narrated by talented voice actor Mallory Fuccella.
#MagdaRevealed by @ursulawerner_author @shewritespress *****review @malloryfuccella
#goodreads #bookbub #thestorygraph #librarything @booksforwardpr @historicalnovel
In this novel interpretation, Magda is friend, supporter, companion and more to Yeshua (Jesus) but not wife nor mother. Maybe it will shake or support what you already believe. But it is guaranteed to make you think.
I won a print copy from booksforward (Independent Publicist) via LibraryThing Giveaways, it walked away to Cleveland, so I bought an audio copy narrated by talented voice actor Mallory Fuccella.
#MagdaRevealed by @ursulawerner_author @shewritespress *****review @malloryfuccella
#goodreads #bookbub #thestorygraph #librarything @booksforwardpr @historicalnovel
June 23, 2025
Audiobook Review: Magda, Revealed by Ursula Werner
Magda, Revealed offers a compelling and refreshingly original retelling of the Jesus story through the eyes of Mary Magdalene. Ursula Werner brings a contemporary feel and a conversational tone to this reimagining, making the narrative feel personal and approachable without becoming overly religious or preachy. I really appreciated how the story stayed grounded in human emotion and experience, allowing Magda’s voice to shine through with clarity and strength.
The audiobook narrator also deserves praise—her performance added depth and warmth to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional resonance of Magda’s journey. Overall, I truly enjoyed this audiobook. It’s thoughtful, engaging, and provides a unique perspective on a well-known story. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fresh take on biblical history with a modern sensibility.
Magda, Revealed offers a compelling and refreshingly original retelling of the Jesus story through the eyes of Mary Magdalene. Ursula Werner brings a contemporary feel and a conversational tone to this reimagining, making the narrative feel personal and approachable without becoming overly religious or preachy. I really appreciated how the story stayed grounded in human emotion and experience, allowing Magda’s voice to shine through with clarity and strength.
The audiobook narrator also deserves praise—her performance added depth and warmth to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional resonance of Magda’s journey. Overall, I truly enjoyed this audiobook. It’s thoughtful, engaging, and provides a unique perspective on a well-known story. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fresh take on biblical history with a modern sensibility.
April 8, 2025
Although this is a work of fiction, it’s also a new and unique way to view Mary Magdalene, her relationship with Jesus, and his teachings. When I first read the blurb, I was intrigued, but it was the flowing cadence and raw emotions that really drew me in. It feels like you’re sitting across from Magda, hearing her reluctantly share her story with you. She not only talks about her own life, but her life with Jesus, and how she understood his teachings. It’s a different view than that shared in the bible, but is presented respectfully. I doubt I’m the target audience (I’m a pagan and lapsed Catholic), but I got so wrapped up in this story that I found it hard to stop reading. If you’re interested in historical fiction, and don’t mind a religious tilt to it, then you’re going to want to put this at the top of your TBR pile!
April 10, 2025
This was not my cup of tea. I was initially intrigued that this would be a story from Mary Magdalene's point of view, but after reading the first 70 pages, it seemed more of an agenda-driven book with an inaccurate representation of the truth of the Bible. The stories and details described were more than just artistic liberties - it felt more like an unhealthy feminist agenda. I'm not trying to get on a soap box here, but again, just missed the mark for me.
'We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 'Romans 3:22-23
I received an ARC from Books Forward for LibraryThing's Early Reviewers March 2025 batch. A positive review is not required & all opinions are my own.
'We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 'Romans 3:22-23
I received an ARC from Books Forward for LibraryThing's Early Reviewers March 2025 batch. A positive review is not required & all opinions are my own.
April 28, 2025
This is a wonderful retelling of the story of Mary Magdalene, bringing vividly to life this incredible woman and healer who was sidelined and maligned by "The Quartet" as the author calls them—the four men who claimed to be Jesus's holy disciples and have owned the "gospel" of Jesus ever since. In addition to Magda, as she was known, there are several vibrant and important women in this book, and one of my favorites parts was the unconditional friendship between them. And there is a love story at the center of this book which is at once heartbreaking and soul-filling. I part listened and part read this book. I recommend both versions highly. If you love historical fiction that makes you think, characters that feel like friends by the end, a protagonist to root for and a source of inspiration for a better world, this book is for you.
May 2, 2025
3.5 Stars
A conversation starter and fictional tribute to the often overlooked women throughout history, I both loved and didn't love this novel.
Loved: the world-building, the inclusion of a typically underrepresented group, the historical atmosphere, its strong or resilient female characters, and the mostly positive adaptation or alternative "history. "
Didn't love: the constant complaints about Peter and Paul (I think less is more in this case, otherwise, it gets a bit repetitive and bitter) and the ending
Although the book diverges from the historical and traditional storyline if Jesus, if you can try to keep an open mind, this fiction novela is intriguing and well-written.
LT Early Reviewers
A conversation starter and fictional tribute to the often overlooked women throughout history, I both loved and didn't love this novel.
Loved: the world-building, the inclusion of a typically underrepresented group, the historical atmosphere, its strong or resilient female characters, and the mostly positive adaptation or alternative "history. "
Didn't love: the constant complaints about Peter and Paul (I think less is more in this case, otherwise, it gets a bit repetitive and bitter) and the ending
Although the book diverges from the historical and traditional storyline if Jesus, if you can try to keep an open mind, this fiction novela is intriguing and well-written.
LT Early Reviewers
March 31, 2025
From the first page, Magda captivates the reader with her love of learning, her wit and righteous anger, and above all, her courage. The woman dismissed as the prostitute Mary Magdalene tells a gripping tale as she reclaims her name and strips away the lies told about her by churchmen and historians. She reveals the truth about her early years as a scholar, the terrible assault that nearly ended her life, and her transformative relationship with the compelling prophet Yeshua (Jesus). As she heals from the trauma of the assault, Magda joins the fellowship of men and women who travel with Yeshua to spread his vision of achieving the kingdom of God on earth. At Yeshua’s urging, Magda discovers her mysterious gift for the ancient practice of anointing, which enables those she touches to encounter a profound spiritual connection to one another.
If you welcome a fresh perspective on the teachings of Jesus, and enjoy a good yarn told by a bold woman who endures tragedy to embrace her vocation, you’ll enjoy this book. Long after you close its cover, Magda and Yeshua and their campaign to save humanity from itself will stay with you.
If you welcome a fresh perspective on the teachings of Jesus, and enjoy a good yarn told by a bold woman who endures tragedy to embrace her vocation, you’ll enjoy this book. Long after you close its cover, Magda and Yeshua and their campaign to save humanity from itself will stay with you.
April 8, 2025
A Daring and Thought-Provoking Retelling...
In Magda Revealed, Ursula Werner masterfully reimagines history through the sharp, unfiltered voice of Mary Magdalene. As Magda sets the record straight, peeling back centuries of distortion, we witness a deeply human Yeshua—passionate, flawed, and fiercely committed to justice. The novel blends wit, raw emotion, and biting social commentary, challenging long-held beliefs while crafting an electrifying narrative of love, power, and truth. Bold, irreverent, and deeply moving, this is historical fiction at its most provocative. Highly recommended.
In Magda Revealed, Ursula Werner masterfully reimagines history through the sharp, unfiltered voice of Mary Magdalene. As Magda sets the record straight, peeling back centuries of distortion, we witness a deeply human Yeshua—passionate, flawed, and fiercely committed to justice. The novel blends wit, raw emotion, and biting social commentary, challenging long-held beliefs while crafting an electrifying narrative of love, power, and truth. Bold, irreverent, and deeply moving, this is historical fiction at its most provocative. Highly recommended.
September 11, 2025
The imagery and detail really took me back to the time. The Author and Narrator both did did a great job with that!
Usually historical fiction for me is more about that time than the characters and I can get lost in the time, but I really did find myself connected to the characters and everything that happened to them. I love that the theme and background of the book is something familiar with a twist.
The plot flowed smoothly and was easy to follow while being in depth enough to give me a feeling I knew these characters and what drove them to do the things they did.
Everything about Ursula Werner's writing felt authentic.
Usually historical fiction for me is more about that time than the characters and I can get lost in the time, but I really did find myself connected to the characters and everything that happened to them. I love that the theme and background of the book is something familiar with a twist.
The plot flowed smoothly and was easy to follow while being in depth enough to give me a feeling I knew these characters and what drove them to do the things they did.
Everything about Ursula Werner's writing felt authentic.
September 11, 2025
What an imaginative book. You may know the history and the bible of which this is based on, but the author does a great job of reimaging the story and completely throwing readers in the best way.
There were so many beautiful aspects to it - each rich character with their own drama and mysteries. It was compelling, it was captivating, and it was a fantastic read, that has a wonderful audiobook and narration.
Several storylines and each come together eventually. You'll be floored by what you learn about Magda along the way her journey both in life and the spiritual sense are so fascinating and fulfilling.
There were so many beautiful aspects to it - each rich character with their own drama and mysteries. It was compelling, it was captivating, and it was a fantastic read, that has a wonderful audiobook and narration.
Several storylines and each come together eventually. You'll be floored by what you learn about Magda along the way her journey both in life and the spiritual sense are so fascinating and fulfilling.
November 11, 2025
Won a paperback ARC of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. 4.5 stars. Love how Ursula reimagined history here, particularly the feminist viewpoint she brings us via Mary’s perspective! I always enjoy a good retelling, and this one did not disappoint. It really read like a story, too, not just a snore fest composed of various passages that at times do and at times do not speak of tangible things like people, food, places etc.; there was an actual narrative here, which helped ground the larger abstract aspects (e.g., divinity) and made it readable in a few sittings. The writing flows well and the characters were relatable, which was surprising given the subject matter!
November 26, 2024
Loved this feminist, funny, and explorative retelling (and addition to) Mary Magdelne's story! I think that learning about historical figures from a feminist and intersection lens is always helpful. Especially in this instance, where all biblical texts were written by men. There's a large perspective left out of the story, and I'm glad Ursula Werner delves into that in this historical novel. If you like examining and questioning religion, feminist retellings, and historical fiction, then this is right up your alley!
January 15, 2025
Ursula Werner masterfully tackles complex historical and theological themes, making them accessible through her beautifully crafted story of Jesus and Mary Magdalene. Her vivid and evocative prose immerses the reader in their world, capturing all the drama and significance one would expect from a story about Jesus.
This book leaves a lasting impression and should prompt deep reflection on what it truly means to be a Christian. Readers will be challenged to consider whether the church has fully lived up to its calling.
This book leaves a lasting impression and should prompt deep reflection on what it truly means to be a Christian. Readers will be challenged to consider whether the church has fully lived up to its calling.
January 30, 2025
Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner is a bold and thought-provoking reimagining of Mary Magdalene’s story. I loved how it challenged centuries of misconceptions, portraying her as strong, spiritual, and empowered. The themes of equality, faith, and resilience resonated deeply, making this story both inspiring and emotional. Werner’s fresh perspective on Yeshua and Mary’s journey offers a powerful reminder of humanity and empowerment. It’s a beautifully written book that stays with you long after the last page.
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