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Some wounds are carried in silence. Some healings require more than medicine.

Eighteen-year-old Anna bears the marks of a childhood tragedy that left her motherless, scarred, and lame. Hidden within the household of her father, Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy councilman of the Sanhedrin, her days are measured in herb gardens and healing tinctures, in the steady work of hands trained to help others, and in the quiet safety of a world made small.

Then Andrew of Bethsaida arrives at her father's gate with urgent business for Joseph and talk of a teacher who calls ordinary people to extraordinary purpose. A fisherman turned disciple, Andrew follows the rabbi Jesus with a conviction that unsettles every long-held expectation—including Anna's own.

When Andrew's kindness cracks open the door to a larger world, Anna faces an impossible remain in the safety of her father's estate or risk everything for the possibility of healing, love, and a life she never dared imagine.

Set against the dusty roads and fishing villages of first-century Judea, where miracles unfold and mercy walks among the broken, Anna of Arimathea opens The Arimathea Chronicles—a richly imagined tale of faith, first love, and redemption in the footsteps of the Messiah.

Anna of Arimathea is perfect for readers who

Biblical and historical fiction with rich period detailRedemptive love stories that explore the cost of faithImmersive historical worldsCharacters who choose courage over comfort

404 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 7, 2025

39 people are currently reading
65 people want to read

About the author

Susanne Blumer

22 books99 followers
Susanne Blumer lives her life surrounded by stories—some she writes, and some she sells. She owns Sassafras Bookstores, three beloved indie shops nestled in the North Carolina mountains and the coastal town of Beaufort, South Carolina.

She is the author of The Arimathea Chronicles, a biblical fiction series bringing first-century Judea to life through the eyes of Anna, daughter of Joseph of Arimathea. The first book in the series, Anna of Arimathea, published in December 2025 and book 2, Anna of Bethsaida, will be published in March 2026.

She's also the author of several children's books, including the award-winning Bell Tower Bible Adventure series she co-wrote with her husband, and now is writing biblical fiction.

When she’s not writing or hanging out at one of her shops, she is likely drinking coffee, daydreaming or spoiling her chickens. She splits her time between Waynesville, NC and Beaufort, SC and both capture her heart and imagination.

You can connect with Susanne at susanneblumer.com and learn all about her bookstores at sassafraspost.com

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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,553 reviews208 followers
February 8, 2026
New-to-me author Susanne Blumer sweeps readers back to first-century Judea and immerses them in a redemptive story about the cost of faith and the healing power of kindness.

She introduces readers to 18-year-old Anna of Animathea, who continues to suffer from the childhood trauma of losing her mother and now copes with the growing pains resulting from the neglect of her wealthy and much sought-after father, an influential member of the Sanhedrin. Anna seems to be content with her lot until a visitor from Bethsaida arrives and she risks everything for the possibility of love, healing and a sense of belonging.

I appreciated a rich biblical fiction story that explores the exciting story of a little-known Jewish leader. Before reading this book, I only knew Joseph of Arimathea as the man who asked Pilate for Jesus’s body at death. Blumer has paired historical details with biblical truths to give us an idea of what it meant to forsake all in the name of Jesus.

I’ll remember this book for the reminder that God speaks to those who need to hear Him most.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
694 reviews102 followers
January 22, 2026
Anna of Arimathea is a gentle, quiet story that unfolds with patience and softness. Anna’s life feels small and carefully contained, shaped by loss and physical limitation, and that stillness is what made her journey feel so tender to me. When Andrew enters her world, there is a subtle shift … not rushed, not dramatic, but filled with possibility and quiet courage.

This book lingers in the ordinary rhythms of life … gardens, healing, simple conversations, and the slow forming of trust. There is something deeply human in Anna’s longing to be useful and to believe her life holds meaning beyond her pain. Her story carries a quiet ache that many readers will recognize.

This is a story for those who enjoy imaginative fiction that centers on personal growth, gentle romance, and the brave step of choosing hope when safety feels easier.

I appreciated the tenderness of the story and the sincerity of the characters’ hearts. There was a gentle warmth in the way the characters cared for one another, and I could see the author’s gifts reflected in the way human love, patience, and hope were portrayed.

As I reflected on the story, I realized that much of my response came from a longing to see Jesus’ love shine even more brightly than human love. The relationships were tender and meaningful, yet I kept hoping to see them more clearly rooted in the greater truth that His love is what sustains, heals, and ultimately defines us.
I wanted Jesus’ love to deepen their love, to heal their wounds, and to shape every part of their transformation.
I longed for His presence to feel central and active in their lives, not distant or secondary, while still being honored with reverence and without placing words in His mouth.

I did not dislike the story, but I struggled with several aspects of it and felt that the spiritual depth I was hoping for, particularly a stronger focus on God’s love and Christ-centered truth, was much lighter than I expected.

I received a digital version of this book from the author via JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC (I also purchased a copy). I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Profile Image for Amanda  H.
837 reviews55 followers
January 25, 2026
I love Biblical fiction that gives me a chance to reevaluate the classic passages I grew up with and see them in a new light, I thought that Anna of Arimathea did a wonderful job of bringing to life someone who is only mentioned briefly in the New Testament, Joseph of Arimathea, and giving him a daughter who has a story rich in heartbreak and hope. This is the first book I have read by Susanne Blumer, but it won’t be the last, since I was drawn to the rich historical details and character development. This story is a wonderful one to pick up and enjoy!

I received this book from JustRead. This is my honest review.

Profile Image for Megan.
286 reviews8 followers
January 31, 2026
Nothing like crying while reading a book in the waiting room of the orthodontist! That was me this week with this book. This is a beautiful story of redemption; Biblical fiction that allows readers to speculate on who the real people were and what their experiences really felt like. Anna was wonderfully raw and authentic. I could imagine the struggles and doubts that she expresses, as well as the hope and joy. I love Biblical fiction that makes me want to seek out the truth, read the Bible and see what history says. I don't think I had ever heard that it is believed that Joseph of Arimathea was related to Jesus, but I find that interesting too. I highly recommend checking out this book and series.
Profile Image for Emily.
549 reviews14 followers
January 23, 2026
Anna of Arimathea is the first book I have read written by Susanne Blumer, and it was such a treat. This is the perfect biblical fiction story. Taking a look at what things might have been like being in the outer circle of Jesus inner circle.

Anna’s father is Joseph of Arimathea, who we encounter in the New Testament. Joseph is a member of the Sanhedrin, but also a follower of Christ. The story begins with an accident that leaves Anna’s mother dead and Anna with scars, a limp, and in pain. Joseph then takes Anna to their house and has her stay there while he does his Sanhedrin duties. Anna follows in her mother’s footsteps and is learning different remedies to heal people. When Andrew, the disciple, shows up at her doorstep.

This book brought the bible to life in a great way. I loved reading this beautifully crafted story. I look forward to the next book in the series.    

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Terri Wangard.
Author 13 books161 followers
January 18, 2026
Joseph of Arimathea’s daughter Anna was cruelly wounded by a Roman soldier’s whip, scarring her face and hand, and a horse’s hoof that crushed her hip. Hidden away at their Arimathean estate, she practices the healing arts, isolated and lonely. Then Andrew, a disciple of Jesus, comes with a message for her father. Seriously wounded by bandits, she tends to his injuries and they fall in love. But how can someone crippled like she endure the nomadic life of a follower of Jesus?
205 reviews4 followers
December 29, 2025
Such Beauty In Each Page !

If you live a life were pain is your daily friend , you feel each step with Anna . Ask Why Me ? Does The Lord see me knows my pain , This book is so alive with feelings of redemption & grace. Each page you can feel The Spirit Guiding you forward When Jesus speaks the words are for you . What A Gift Blumer has !! Can't wait for next book in March 2026
Profile Image for Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore.
673 reviews16 followers
February 8, 2026
A Story of Redemption

Anna of Arimathea is a tender, faith-filled story about healing, courage, and trusting God with an uncertain future. Shaped by childhood tragedy, Anna lives a quiet, sheltered life within her father’s household, finding purpose in service while guarding her heart.

The arrival of Andrew of Bethsaida gently challenges everything Anna believes about safety and calling. His devotion to Jesus and steady kindness invite her to imagine a life beyond the walls she has built around herself.

Rich historical detail brings first-century Judea vividly to life, while the themes of restoration, faith, and redemption are woven with care. This is not only a love story, but a reminder that God often calls us beyond comfort into deeper trust.

A beautifully written biblical novel with heart, hope, and spiritual depth perfect for readers who enjoy faith centered historical fiction.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,147 reviews19 followers
January 25, 2026
My Thoughts on Anna of Arimathea
Anna of Arimathea is the first book in a Biblical fiction series that you’re going to enjoy reading and finding the rest of the series. For me, I enjoy Biblical fiction. I really enjoy Biblical fiction that puts the well-known characters into the sidelines and lets someone, either I’d never delved into, or someone totally made up, as the main character.

Andrew is a secondary character to Anna, but a very important one, as he brings the message of Jesus to her and gives her hope that she didn’t have before.

This book is such a good, quiet and simmering type of story. It moves slowly and gently, but then when Andrew comes into the story, it shifts. It’s a small shift, but hope comes in. Anna begins to dream of more besides just hiding in her father’s house.

I love the use of gardens and gardening within the story. That’s something that can come across all lines of time and everyone can relate to. Or at least I can.

Grab your copy today and get to know Anna. I promise you’ll love it!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Profile Image for Rosalyn.
1,274 reviews32 followers
January 30, 2026
This is such a sweet Biblical fiction story. My first read from this author.

Anna was such a realistic heroine. I loved meeting her, getting to know her story, and hearing this perspective from the time of Jesus. She went through many hard things, and this is her story of finding her own identity, finding peace.

Biblical fiction is always sweet to me. These characters became dear to me the longer I read.

This story is not an action packed, or fast paced story, but one that develops gradually. A story that will tug at your heart strings as you ponder for yourself who Jesus was, and what this means to you.

Joseph of Arimathea is more of a secondary character, but this story definitely helped flesh out for me who he might have been, and what his life was like.

This story is not an action packed, or fast paced story, but one that develops gradually. A story that will tug at your heart strings as you ponder for yourself who Jesus was, and what this means to you.

If you enjoy this type of story, especially Biblical fiction, I encourage you to give this one a try.

                Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Profile Image for Wren.
442 reviews5 followers
January 29, 2026
I've had a marvelous experience recently, reading Susanne Blumer's "Anna of Arimathea." Blumer has taken real-life characters that we're familiar with -- such as Jesus, Andrew, his brother Simon, and of course, Joseph of Arimathea -- and imagined others who fit perfectly into what we know from the Scriptures. What if? What if Joseph was a widower and had a daughter, who'd been injured in the crush of a crowd and of a Roman soldier; the same one that took Joseph's wife. What indeed! And that is the beginning of the story of Anna of Arimathea.

This novel delves into the history, culture, and perhaps even the personalities of ancient Israel. Blumer has created a character in Anna that readers will care about deeply. I could not put this book down. Along with Anna, I hoped and dreamed for a special life, and a special love. But what's ahead for Anna? Even she can't imagine it. But perhaps faith and love will transform.

Don't miss this beautiful book. Definitely 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,820 reviews49 followers
January 21, 2026
Biblical Fiction is a genre that I became interested in a couple years ago. Anna of Arimathea by Susanne Blumer is Book 1 in The Arimathea Chronicles. I recently had the opportunity to read this book.

I was intrigued by the book from the very beginning. The book is set in Biblical Times and the main characters are Anna, her father Joseph of Arimathea and Andrew. of Bethsaida. Anna feels isolated from everyone due to a tragedy that happened to her. She is very conscious of her scars and spends time trying to heal herself from the outside in with Herbs and Oils. Andrew comes to gives news to her father. Anna is smitten by Andrews kindness and has to make a decision in regards to her future and will she follow Andrew. I really felt the author has a wonderful writing style and the book was easy to read, although long. The story is one of pain, loneliness, Joy, healing and endurance. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Biblical Fiction. GREAT BOOK!
Profile Image for Kathy Diebold.
1 review
December 29, 2025
It has been a long while since I have read a book that is so well written and has such a great story line that has me stopping my world to read the entire book in one sitting. Anna of Arimathea was this book for me!

The descriptions throughout the novel are brilliantly woven into the narrative affecting all of the five senses. I felt like I was walking with Anna with dust on my clothes and feet; smelling the scents of the areas she traveled; hearing the despairs and happiness in her voice; feeling the pains in her broken body; and imagining the taste of the honey cakes to the point where I hunted down a recipe for the cake.

The story moves along all the way to last page with several surprises I never saw coming. Well Done! I am excited for the 2nd book in the series to be published

Kathy Diebold Author
Profile Image for Lenny Markovic.
48 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2026
This was a lovely gentle book based around Anna, initially a young girl injured in a horrible accident that sees her mother killed at the local market. What ensues is a life of learning to heal the sick and giving of her own gifts and resources to those who are vulnerable. She is left with scars and injuries after the accident, but she pushes through to show kindness and love to all.

Reading Anna's story brings calm and reminders of who we are as people and how we should look after each other. It was a lovely book and nicely written. At times is felt a little slow, but this was also a good reminder to slow down in life.

The ending is quite nice but has a wonderful cliff hanger ready for book 2!
Profile Image for Stephanie - Books Less Travelled.
225 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2026
This is a delightful read, and I enjoyed meeting Anna and reading her story. The descriptions are vivid and make it easy to picture each scene. I enjoyed seeing her growing friendship with Andrew, and watching how that part of her story plays out. I also really liked learning that her father was Joseph of Arimathea. That was an interesting detail, and offers her a unique look at the lives of the disciples and the growing unrest in Jerusalem as she begins realizing that some things aren’t the way she first thought. This is a fun story and an interesting start to the series.

*I received an early copy of the book. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
5 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2025
Anna of Arimathea is a great read! Perfect for lovers of historical fiction, biblical settings, and detailed characters. The story is well researched and imaginative, the love story is sweet, and the writing flows easily from one moment to the next. I found myself looking forward to my reading time to see where the story led, and wanting to know more about the world of Anna by doing my own research and imagining. This book is a great read for fans of The Chosen.
1 review
February 12, 2026

Blumer has a beautiful way with words. In her novel Anna of Arimathea, she speaks through the characters showing the reader the value of the human heart to Jesus.

As the story enfolds Blumer easily writes with a calm patience that helps the reader understand that God’s timing is always perfect.
The novel reveals the beautiful way that imparts the miracle of death to real freedom in life, and shows us
that we are seen by God.
1 review
January 9, 2026
Amazing, well written story!

This story takes place in Biblical times, but the author brings well known characters to life through her beautifully crafted writing. I could hardly put it down, and look forward to the sequel coming soon!
187 reviews
March 1, 2026
EDIT: 3.50 stars
While I gleaned much from this story, I felt i needed to add that God spoke to her in her garden and Jesus confirmed it. I have been bothered by this ever since reading it.

Anna was caught in the middle of an incident that was in the Jerusalem marketplace when she was five. Throughout all the years, she's hurt emotionally and physically all from this one event. We see and feel her pain. We feel the longing for belonging and wondering what life would be like without hurting. Then Andrew stumbles on her doorstep and life changes for her in the best way, while also overcoming obstacles. This is a good imagination of something that could have happened with the times of Jesus. The author sticks true to the Word and uses imagination with respect.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

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