Anna of Arimathea

The Arimathea Chronicles #1

by Susanne Blumer

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

Genres: Biblical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Christian Historical Fiction, Historical, Christian

402 pages, Paperback

Published December 8, 2025

About the author

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

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Terri Wangard · Rating 5 out of 5]

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?

[Richard Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

My First Blumer Book

This book is an amazing read. It is written so well that my imagination was full of the scenery described. Susanne Blumer is no ordinary writer. This book is everything I want to read in a Biblical Christian fiction book. I praise God for the gift of writing He gave to Susanne Blumer.

[DEBBIE AGUILAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Amaris-Edhiya Popa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I‘m so glad I only got this as an ebook!
The only reason I‘m giving it 2 stars is because I loved the authors writing style!
It’s so beautiful I can’t really describe it… it’s so descriptive but in a fresh way. It just makes you feel like you are there, back in biblical times. I could visualize and hear the sounds happening in the story, because she described them so well.

Ok, so the 2 reasons why I had to DNF this book…
1.)
I didn’t like that the author wrote full conversations that Jesus had with the Characters and was putting words in his mouth.
What I like about Heather Kaufmans Books is that she doesn’t have Jesus say anything other than what is already in the bible, (the exact words that he says in the bible.)
2.)
This is what I wrote down in my reading Journal:

Ok, I‘m on page 213 and NOPE! Jesus is sympathizing with Joseph of Arimathea and telling him that it‘s ok that he denied him and called him a street performer…what??
Ok, I just also read through page 214 wow, this is bad… Jesus is making Joseph feel good about himself after he literally sinned! This is so the wrong message! Jesus called out sin! What does the author mean with they witnessed grace in action?? Even with grace there is still a law to keep! (Romans 6:15) Jesus could have forgiven him of course, but in this story Jesus just excuses the sin and says there is no need to forgive him, because he knows his heart?! that actually made me feel disgusted, I won‘t read anymore of this book!

So yeah, that was the second reason.

[Stephanie Mccall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin? Anna of Arimathea has been the best surprise of my book year so far. Meaning I had never heard of Susanne Blumer, but this book blew me completely away.

First off, I have never and I mean never, identified with a heroine quite so much as I did Anna of Arimathea. Now yes, that is partly because we're both disabled. But more importantly, I saw so much of her own journey, so many of her own questions, mirrored in mine. I have often felt purposeless, wanted but not needed, and sometimes yes, so terribly lonely. When Anna asked Jesus, "What if the time is never right," I stopped short because I have asked the exact same question. And yet, I keep trusting God. I keep asking Him to do what only He can do. I keep choosing mercy. When I tell you I don't cry at books but leaked and squeaked all through this book... I can hardly find enough words.

Beyond my personal identification, Anna, Andrew, Joseph, Jesus--all these characters pop off the page. They sparkle. Now granted, part of that may be because most of them are real people. Yet Susanne pushes herself and her characters beyond, "These people lived, and Jesus is and was in fact God, so show them respect." She's faithful to Scripture while giving her characters personalities and arcs that fit them perfectly. Andrew, for instance, encompasses everything it might mean to be Simon Peter's brother--and he's also very much his own man. Joseph lets us see what it truly meant, and cost, to be a "secret believer" in his time period. And Jesus...of course...

Jesus' portrayal especially is spot on here. He is the Jesus of Scripture, *and* we get a portrait of Him as a person interacting with humans whom He loves. For instance, in Anna's place I would worry that Jesus would become impatient with or mad at me because I had trouble understanding my value. But Jesus is endlessly, almost heartbreakingly gentle with Anna. I sometimes wondered too, if Jesus would get angry with Joseph for not defending Him--and He would have that right. But Susanne's take was a reminder of how well Jesus understands us--much better than we understand ourselves.

Joseph of Arimathea's arc is great also, and one I want to zoom in on for a minute. As noted, the tension between his position and his beliefs is always there, humming in the background, quiet but raw. Susanne took what the Bible tells us, and dove into what that would've meant for the actual man. The decisions Joseph must make, the knife-edge he needs to walk, had me intrigued all through the book--and I know the Gospels, I know Joseph's history. By the end, I was eager to see how his arc would play out.

The plot of Anna of Arimathea itself amazes me, too. It has romance--Anna and Andrew are dripping with chemistry--but it's not a romantic book. It's much more a relationship novel, a novel of love and belonging. Jesus does the miracles we know He can do, but He lets people know how loved and valued they are with or without the miracles. The book tells the story of Jesus, but doesn't hurry Him to the cross or His followers to Holy Week and the aftermath. Susanne's plot feels much more like a miniseries in novel form, one that loves Scripture and loves the people inside it.

The spiritual threads can't be separated from the plot, but I do want to take a minute to zoom in on those, too. As noted, I identified so much with Anna and her arc, I cried at various intervals. But Susanne's spiritual threads provided me with more than emotion. They became a gentle challenge: "Can you believe you are valued, not just that those are pretty words that don't provide an answer? Can you trust that your season is coming?" These questions burrowed into my heart, and I'm sure they will for other readers as well.

As you can probably tell, this is a "gushing" review. I'd love to go on all day and talk about the whole book. Instead, I'll simply exhort you to read it--and grab the rest of the series. I know I will!

[Lewis Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not My Usual Read—But Anna of Arimathea Completely Won Me Over

To be completely transparent, I first became interested in Anna of Arimathea after briefly meeting author Susanne Blumer at one of the bookstores she owns. Whenever I’m fortunate enough to meet a Christian fiction author, I feel somewhat compelled to give at least one of their books a try. In this case, because of an unusually busy work schedule, I chose the audiobook. I couldn’t be happier that I did.

As a man, I’ll admit that a historical novel centered around a young woman living in first-century Judea might not normally have been the first audiobook I would have chosen. But it didn’t take long for that to become completely irrelevant. What I experienced was a story that genuinely transported me back in time to first-century Jewish life.

Blumer does a wonderful job of placing the listener within Anna’s world including all of the hardships, customs, expectations, faith, and all the uncertainty wrapped around Jesus. Anna, the fictional daughter of Joseph of Arimathea... yes that Joseph of Arimatha, the one who offered his own tomb for our Lord and Savior.

At the risk of giving out spoiler details, Anna is a compelling character whose physical and emotional scars have caused her to live a protected and somewhat isolated life. As her path begins to intersect with Andrew of Bethsaida and, ultimately, the ministry of Jesus, the story becomes one of faith, courage, healing, and discovering that God may have a purpose for us far beyond the boundaries we place around ourselves. At least that's the message that resonated with me.

What impressed me most was how naturally the fictional story blended with the biblical setting. Rather than feeling as though familiar biblical figures and events had simply been inserted into a novel, I felt as if I were experiencing that time period through the eyes of someone who might actually have lived there. There were moments when I found myself forgetting that I was listening to a contemporary author’s interpretation and simply became absorbed in Anna’s world. Loving the craft of writing myself I was continuously in awe of how descriptive Blumer was. In the writing world I believe it's also called “sentence shaping” in terms of taking an ordinary sentence and shaping its word choice, rhythm, structure, imagery, and pacing so that it becomes more evocative. Not to get too deep on this but how she took an ordinary sentence like, “Anna walked toward the house as the sun went down,” Blumer wrote, “Anna followed the fading light toward the house, the last sliver of sun disappearing behind the Judean hills.” (Pretty cool, huh!)

The audiobook format only added to that experience, making my daily drives and busy schedule something I actually looked forward to. By the time I finished, I felt as though I had not only heard a great Christian historical novel, but had taken a journey into the world surrounding the early ministry of Jesus.

I went into Anna of Arimathea simply wanting to give the work of a fellow Christian a chance. I came away genuinely impressed and very glad that a brief encounter in a bookstore led me to discover this story. When I met Susanne Blumer, I also picked up a signed copy specifically for my wife, who is a devout Christian, and after experiencing the story myself, I’m even more excited for her to read it. My final takeaway for anyone thinking about reading Anna of Arimathea is that it is simply a beautifully written, faith-filled journey into the world of first-century Judea. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction, biblical history, or simply a compelling and heartfelt story. BTW… it’s the first in a series so I’m sure you’re in for many more great reads from this exceptional author.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Rosalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Karin · Rating 3 out of 5]

As I continue to challenge myself to read outside my preferred genres, I picked up another biblical fiction novel to test the waters.

This book was 50/50 for me. While the story is sweet and the author writes beautiful descriptions, the story is buried under pages of description (at one point she takes an entire page to describe one person). I understand the need to create the setting, especially in historical novels, but the story got bogged down in the details. This leaned more heavily toward literary fiction than historical fiction, so the writing didn't fully match my expectations in that way. Anna's life did intrigue me, though, and I found myself wanting to know what happened to her.

There was also a theological issue that jumped out at me--the book implies that Jesus is okay with lying for the sake of protecting one's self and family. I can't see in Scripture where that's supported. Maybe that's not what the author meant, but that's how I interpreted that scene, which isn't something that aligns with the Bible.

Overall, I liked reading Anna's story, but it got lost in the description. I'd also hesitate to recommend this to non-Christians, as the lying episode could lead them to the wrong biblical conclusion. 2.5 stars for me.

Rated PG.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Kathy Diebold · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Lenny Markovic · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[Kari Hatfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Judy Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Patricia Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need more of Anna and Andrew

What a beautiful book to read. I always feel like I have just spent some much needed time with the Bible. All the characters were so beautifully described and written about in this story. I'm going to read the next book and hopefully Anna and Andrew will be mentioned because I got pretty attached to those two, and it's always so amazing to read about Jesus when He was still walking the earth.
Thank you.

[susan bellinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love of God

I enjoyed reading such a lovely work of fiction.. I could feel Anna's fear, her love and forgiveness!! Deborah her care giver that loved Anna as her own child and taught her about love, life and endurance though pain!! Andrew the love of Anna's life who was a faithful follower of Jesus!!! To me the most beautiful and loving part of this story was our Saviour Jesus Christ and His love of his Father God!!!!

[C.G. Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Found this a wonderful alternative perspective on the lives of the twelve disciples and how they may have lived before Jesus turned their lives into something they could never have imagined. This story draws you in and makes you part of that culture and the people who lived during that time. It made me want to be there, even though it was definitely a difficult time. And through this story, I could live vicariously through the main character.

[Susan Mawhinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The life of a Jewish girl growing up in the First Century

The author has a beautiful way with words in this story about a young, privileged girl growing up during the time ofJesus. Anna's challenging life becomes easier when she prays to God and when she learns hidden truths. What an interesting read!

[Karen Cogswell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A love story

I didn’t realize at first that this was book 1 of 4 and I thought the book would take us into Jesus’s ministry. It ended with her marriage to Andrew. The plot moves slowly in this book and I ended up skipping a lot of seemingly endless details to see what happens next. Otherwise, it was well written.

[Anni Welborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!

I absolutely loved this book. Someone I dearly love is disabled and has said many of the very same things Anna says in this book — “Does God see me? Will I ever find love? Who could love someone so broken and disabled?” I loved how Jesus spoke to Anna, so tenderly. I look forward to reading the next book!

[Debbie Hackenkamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

worth reading

I have never read any books by Susanne Blumer, this being my first, I would have to say that this one is a must read. It kept me captivated throughout the whole book. And I’m thankful that it is a continuing series. I can’t wait to hop into another ongoing adventure with Jesus and his followers. Thank you for such superb storytelling.

[Lisa Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It’s one of those books that once you start, you can’t put it down. From Anna’s crushing beginning to finding true faith, love, and who she is in Christ, this book is absolutely heart grabbing. A must read for any who love Biblical fiction. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.

[Debra Stinebaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!