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The Arimathea Chronicles #2
Anna of Bethsaida
Anna believed choosing Andrew meant gaining a home. Instead, she finds herself on the dusty roads of Galilee, under the watchful eyes of hostile Pharisees, walking ever closer to miracles that both heal and unsettle.
As a healer traveling with Jesus's ministry alongside Andrew, Anna takes her place among the women who follow, forming bonds that offer strength as the journey grows harder. While crowds press close to hear the Teacher's words, a different kind of attention gathers. In Jerusalem, her father Joseph of Arimathea, walks an impossible line within the Sanhedrin, and with each miracle Jesus performs, the net draws tighter around them all.
The cost of discipleship, Anna discovers, is not counted in miles walked or comforts surrendered. It is measured in the space between what she hoped following Jesus would be and what it actually demands.
Some journeys test what you believe.
Some reshape who you become.
Anna's does both.
This is Book 2 of The Arimathea Chronicles. Begin Anna's journey from the beginning with Book 1, Anna of Arimathea, where a scarred, isolated young woman discovers healing, first love, and purpose in the footsteps of Jesus.
Anna of Bethsaida is perfect for readers who
Deeply researched biblical fiction with authentic period detailThe untold stories of women in the early church - Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and the community that sustained Jesus's ministryLove stories tested by faith and dangerous callingsPolitical intrigue woven through spiritual transformationCharacter-driven narratives where personal loss intersects with world-changing events
As a healer traveling with Jesus's ministry alongside Andrew, Anna takes her place among the women who follow, forming bonds that offer strength as the journey grows harder. While crowds press close to hear the Teacher's words, a different kind of attention gathers. In Jerusalem, her father Joseph of Arimathea, walks an impossible line within the Sanhedrin, and with each miracle Jesus performs, the net draws tighter around them all.
The cost of discipleship, Anna discovers, is not counted in miles walked or comforts surrendered. It is measured in the space between what she hoped following Jesus would be and what it actually demands.
Some journeys test what you believe.
Some reshape who you become.
Anna's does both.
This is Book 2 of The Arimathea Chronicles. Begin Anna's journey from the beginning with Book 1, Anna of Arimathea, where a scarred, isolated young woman discovers healing, first love, and purpose in the footsteps of Jesus.
Anna of Bethsaida is perfect for readers who
Deeply researched biblical fiction with authentic period detailThe untold stories of women in the early church - Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and the community that sustained Jesus's ministryLove stories tested by faith and dangerous callingsPolitical intrigue woven through spiritual transformationCharacter-driven narratives where personal loss intersects with world-changing events
- GenresBiblical Fiction
500 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2026
About the author
Susanne Blumer
26 books131 followersSusanne 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
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 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 11, 2026
This novel felt so sweet and wholesome--devastating at times, but simultaneously coated in grace. I haven't read book one (and now need to), but I was drawn right into Anna's world and caught up pretty quickly. The character arc isn't dramatic in Anna of Bethsaida, but it was her journey and growing strength which truly made the story.
For those who oppose anything that adds to Scripture, you may not wish to read this. Personally, it reminded me a lot of The Chosen, in that it gave life and personality to the characters of Jesus's ministry(some more than others, naturally). I did like that many of Jesus's interactions were word-for-word what was written in the Bible. I don't know... there's just something beautiful and powerful about imagining what it would have really been like to follow Jesus--the physical struggles, the lack of privacy, the MANY relationships.
I really liked the focus on Andrew and Peter's relationship and the jealousy Andrew struggled with, and I felt that the dynamics of Andrew and Anna's marriage were done well with occasional tension but limited drama and angst. I will note that Andrew and Anna do share physical intimacy several times on-page, usually in about a paragraph, and done very tastefully. As someone who is VERY leery of any sort of sexual content, I didn't find it violating in the least, as there was nothing graphic.
I do wonder about all the touchiness--all the hugs between men and women, the hands on Anna's belly... I always thought the Jewish people did not condone such contact, especially between sexes. Also, what about the time of seclusion for pregnant women, which was clearly still intact, as Elizabeth had gone into seclusion when carrying John?
Trigger warning/spoiler:
This book is LONG, but I loved every moment of the journey... even knowing where it was headed. If you love Biblical fiction (and/or The Chosen), I think you'll enjoy this book as well!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
For those who oppose anything that adds to Scripture, you may not wish to read this. Personally, it reminded me a lot of The Chosen, in that it gave life and personality to the characters of Jesus's ministry(some more than others, naturally). I did like that many of Jesus's interactions were word-for-word what was written in the Bible. I don't know... there's just something beautiful and powerful about imagining what it would have really been like to follow Jesus--the physical struggles, the lack of privacy, the MANY relationships.
I really liked the focus on Andrew and Peter's relationship and the jealousy Andrew struggled with, and I felt that the dynamics of Andrew and Anna's marriage were done well with occasional tension but limited drama and angst. I will note that Andrew and Anna do share physical intimacy several times on-page, usually in about a paragraph, and done very tastefully. As someone who is VERY leery of any sort of sexual content, I didn't find it violating in the least, as there was nothing graphic.
I do wonder about all the touchiness--all the hugs between men and women, the hands on Anna's belly... I always thought the Jewish people did not condone such contact, especially between sexes. Also, what about the time of seclusion for pregnant women, which was clearly still intact, as Elizabeth had gone into seclusion when carrying John?
Trigger warning/spoiler:
This book is LONG, but I loved every moment of the journey... even knowing where it was headed. If you love Biblical fiction (and/or The Chosen), I think you'll enjoy this book as well!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
March 12, 2026
Most amazing Christian fiction!
I have now finished both Anna books and I’m going to read them again while I impatiently wait for Anna of Calvary to be released! Susanne’s writing is absolutely amazing and stunningly beautiful! Never have I read books with such descriptive details - I truly felt like I was there with Anna and Jesus with every step they took! Susanne, God has clearly blessed you with a phenomenal writing ability that will, in turn, bless everyone who reads your books!
I have now finished both Anna books and I’m going to read them again while I impatiently wait for Anna of Calvary to be released! Susanne’s writing is absolutely amazing and stunningly beautiful! Never have I read books with such descriptive details - I truly felt like I was there with Anna and Jesus with every step they took! Susanne, God has clearly blessed you with a phenomenal writing ability that will, in turn, bless everyone who reads your books!
March 19, 2026
We meet Anna and Andrew at their wedding. Anna is the fictional daughter of Joseph of Arimathea. Andrew is the disciple and follower of Jesus. In this book, we follow the journeys of Jesus and His disciples during the final year of His earthly ministry, leading up to Calvary and the Resurrection. It is written in the perspective of Anna, and we learn that she also has her share of burdens and needs Jesus’ healing for emotional and physical pain. We watch Anna grow in her faith with her husband Andrew. We see how they are human and have pain like we do in our own personal lives. Although she sees Jesus and see his miracles, Anna’s faith is challenged as she has her own personal tragedy. However, we learn that Jesus is always there even when we doubt what he says.
The book is well written that you can hear, smell, and feel the crowds gathering to listen to Jesus preach. We get to be a part of Lazarus’ coming back from the dead. The miracles Jesus performed. The Sanhedrin lurking around trying to get Jesus into trouble. It also helped you know that when you are weak that Jesus is always there listening being your strength. That his promises endure forever.
I did enjoy this book and I recommend it for adult women who need a pick me up in their faith in God after tragedy. We need to know that God is always there to comfort us even in our pain. It was also a good biblical review of Jesus’ journeys and miracles. It was a little difficult to read sometimes and I felt that the chapters were a little long, but otherwise it was very good. I will recommend you to grab a copy at your local book store or at the following retailers. It would be a good Easter gift for that special woman in your life.
I’m so glad was given the voluntarily opportunity to read this complimentary copy of this book that I received from the author for my honest opinion. I was not required to leave a positive review and I was not compensated in any way. I just enjoy reading books and sharing them with you.
The book is well written that you can hear, smell, and feel the crowds gathering to listen to Jesus preach. We get to be a part of Lazarus’ coming back from the dead. The miracles Jesus performed. The Sanhedrin lurking around trying to get Jesus into trouble. It also helped you know that when you are weak that Jesus is always there listening being your strength. That his promises endure forever.
I did enjoy this book and I recommend it for adult women who need a pick me up in their faith in God after tragedy. We need to know that God is always there to comfort us even in our pain. It was also a good biblical review of Jesus’ journeys and miracles. It was a little difficult to read sometimes and I felt that the chapters were a little long, but otherwise it was very good. I will recommend you to grab a copy at your local book store or at the following retailers. It would be a good Easter gift for that special woman in your life.
I’m so glad was given the voluntarily opportunity to read this complimentary copy of this book that I received from the author for my honest opinion. I was not required to leave a positive review and I was not compensated in any way. I just enjoy reading books and sharing them with you.
March 18, 2026
Anna of Bethsaida is the second book in The Arimathea Chronicles. This biblical fiction helped bring the bible to life in a new way. I look forward to reading book three, as this one left us slightly on a cliffhanger. Though because we have the bible, I do know parts of what will happen, but I am excited to see how Susanne Blumer will portray it.
In book one, we leave off at Anna and Andrew’s wedding, and book two picks up right where we left them. Anna and Andrew are trying to figure out life as newlyweds while also jumping back into serving alongside Jesus. The call is not easy. Days can be really hard, short on food, long travel days, and as the Sanhedrin feel the slip of their power, they are out to destroy Jesus and all of his followers. Anna and Andrew find out they are pregnant.
It deals with some of the different emotions that might have occurred among the disciples. Andrew feels jealous of Simon Peter. Which made me think how the disciples felt about the inner circle when Jesus took Simon Peter, James, and John. There was also some tension towards Judas. This story definitely provoked some more thoughts. It was interesting seeing Jesus' ministry from a different point of view.
I am not one to post trigger/content warnings, but this one does deal with premature stillbirth and the grief following. The scene will definitely evoke emotions.
*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.
In book one, we leave off at Anna and Andrew’s wedding, and book two picks up right where we left them. Anna and Andrew are trying to figure out life as newlyweds while also jumping back into serving alongside Jesus. The call is not easy. Days can be really hard, short on food, long travel days, and as the Sanhedrin feel the slip of their power, they are out to destroy Jesus and all of his followers. Anna and Andrew find out they are pregnant.
It deals with some of the different emotions that might have occurred among the disciples. Andrew feels jealous of Simon Peter. Which made me think how the disciples felt about the inner circle when Jesus took Simon Peter, James, and John. There was also some tension towards Judas. This story definitely provoked some more thoughts. It was interesting seeing Jesus' ministry from a different point of view.
I am not one to post trigger/content warnings, but this one does deal with premature stillbirth and the grief following. The scene will definitely evoke emotions.
*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.
March 18, 2026
WOW. I love this series. It makes me think more deeply about my scripture reading, worship songs and lessons in church. It really puts you into the feet of those who walked with Jesus. This one spanning amazing miracles like multiplying the fish and the loaves and bringing Lazarus back from the dead. It ends with Jesus and his closest followers entering Jerusalem knowing that the leaders are planning to arrest him. What must they have been feeling, thinking, expecting? I had big emotions just reading about it, but living it must have been unimaginable. I cannot wait for the third book, Anna of Calvary.
March 18, 2026
: I really enjoyed returning to this series and the characters! The first book ends with Anna’s wedding, while this one starts up right after and delves even more into the history of the time, as the disciples and those following Jesus of Nazareth find that their actions are being monitored. While there is a lot of history about the times and Jesus’ ministry, I like that the story also shows a very personal side, as Anna navigates being a newlywed and the hardships that come their way. This story deals with love, loss, and the cost of following Jesus. It’s a wonderful story to pick up and enjoy!
I received this book from Just read. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Just read. This is my honest review.
March 18, 2026
Anna of Bethsaida is a feast for the senses. The writing is evocative and entices our senses of sight, smell, and touch. The novel is redolent with the smell of gardens, earth, feasts: roasted lamb, meat, bread, stews, spices, honey, dates, figs….accompanying these is the odour of utter exhaustion, sweat, toil, tears and the difficulties of life on the road.
Blumer’s use of our sense of smell to convey joy, delight, happiness, sorrow, hardship and the difficulties of life on the road, makes this novel unique. Indeed, these are hard realities that neither the gospels nor any biblical fiction I have read have highlighted like Blumer has. I wonder if we in the 21st century with our mod cons have any idea of how difficult it is to live life on the road in the first century, without even the mod cons of those times. I know I certainly viewed the gospel narratives through rose tinted glasses and the ministry highs.
Blumer bursts this romantic bubble of the three years of ministry with her focus on the difficulties rather than the miracles and this made it a very hard read for me. I had to take frequent breaks. Yet, this is what makes the novel not just a retelling of the gospel stories through the eyes of a fictional character.
Rather, it is a telling of the three years of ministry without rose tinted glasses or carried on the high of miracles. It’s everyday life on the road – the ordinary, mundane, full of grit, courage, determination and the difficult, but still choosing to follow Jesus.
It makes you count the cost: really count the cost.
Buy the book, read it, enjoy and yet ponder these realities: how willing am I to give up my comforts, if ministry today looked like the three years with Jesus in the first century AD?
I was given a copy of the book to review with no expectations of a positive review. I liked the book and the author’s unique angle, and this review is an honest reflection of those opinions freely given.
Blumer’s use of our sense of smell to convey joy, delight, happiness, sorrow, hardship and the difficulties of life on the road, makes this novel unique. Indeed, these are hard realities that neither the gospels nor any biblical fiction I have read have highlighted like Blumer has. I wonder if we in the 21st century with our mod cons have any idea of how difficult it is to live life on the road in the first century, without even the mod cons of those times. I know I certainly viewed the gospel narratives through rose tinted glasses and the ministry highs.
Blumer bursts this romantic bubble of the three years of ministry with her focus on the difficulties rather than the miracles and this made it a very hard read for me. I had to take frequent breaks. Yet, this is what makes the novel not just a retelling of the gospel stories through the eyes of a fictional character.
Rather, it is a telling of the three years of ministry without rose tinted glasses or carried on the high of miracles. It’s everyday life on the road – the ordinary, mundane, full of grit, courage, determination and the difficult, but still choosing to follow Jesus.
It makes you count the cost: really count the cost.
Buy the book, read it, enjoy and yet ponder these realities: how willing am I to give up my comforts, if ministry today looked like the three years with Jesus in the first century AD?
I was given a copy of the book to review with no expectations of a positive review. I liked the book and the author’s unique angle, and this review is an honest reflection of those opinions freely given.
March 27, 2026
Anna of Bethsaida is the wonderful second book in a series set in Bible times, giving you a unique perspective of what it was like. I read and enjoyed the first book of the series, Anna of Arimathea. You do need to read that book first, though. Make sure you do so that you’re not lost at the beginning of this one. It sets it up perfectly.
Follow Anna as she follows Jesus, helping to heal people. She thought she’d marry Andrew and gain a home. Yet, here they are following Jesus and wandering around. No home. No security. No stability. But yet… they have the one thing that matters most because they are with the ultimate Healer and Savior.
I loved this novel. Just think what it might have been like to walk with Jesus, to help him heal people. And what a honeymoon! You get married and then start following Jesus. No setting up home, no gifts and visitors, just walking and healing and being watched.
This book is really wonderful. You get to feel what it might have been like. But at the same time, it is a clean fiction novel. Yes, there is history, and yes, you feel like it might be the truth because the truth is so expertly woven into the fiction. It also has a very personal feel to it as you find yourself drawn to Anna and her adventures.
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.
Follow Anna as she follows Jesus, helping to heal people. She thought she’d marry Andrew and gain a home. Yet, here they are following Jesus and wandering around. No home. No security. No stability. But yet… they have the one thing that matters most because they are with the ultimate Healer and Savior.
I loved this novel. Just think what it might have been like to walk with Jesus, to help him heal people. And what a honeymoon! You get married and then start following Jesus. No setting up home, no gifts and visitors, just walking and healing and being watched.
This book is really wonderful. You get to feel what it might have been like. But at the same time, it is a clean fiction novel. Yes, there is history, and yes, you feel like it might be the truth because the truth is so expertly woven into the fiction. It also has a very personal feel to it as you find yourself drawn to Anna and her adventures.
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.
March 16, 2026
Biblical Fiction really is an intriguing genre. Anna of Bethsaida by Susanne Blumer is Book 2 in The Arimathea Chronicles. I read Book 1 in this series and was excited to read this book.
I am ASTONISHED by the great storyline and how the author is able to write a Fictional story based on Biblical Stories. The book is set in Biblical Times and the main characters are Anna and Andrew. of Bethsaida. Anna believes in the power of healing and she and Andrew are following Jesus as he walks many miles to perform miracles. Anna did not anticipate this journey once she married Andrew, but she is also bonding with other women along for this journey. The Journey becomes harder, but she gets stronger as she knows this ministry is where she needs to be. I really took to the message in this story which I found to be that journeys in life can break us, but we can also become stronger at the same time. Be willing to follow Jesus can make the hard times in life seem lighter as we listen to his words and his plan for our life, as Anna did! I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Biblical Fiction. AMAZING BOOK!
I am ASTONISHED by the great storyline and how the author is able to write a Fictional story based on Biblical Stories. The book is set in Biblical Times and the main characters are Anna and Andrew. of Bethsaida. Anna believes in the power of healing and she and Andrew are following Jesus as he walks many miles to perform miracles. Anna did not anticipate this journey once she married Andrew, but she is also bonding with other women along for this journey. The Journey becomes harder, but she gets stronger as she knows this ministry is where she needs to be. I really took to the message in this story which I found to be that journeys in life can break us, but we can also become stronger at the same time. Be willing to follow Jesus can make the hard times in life seem lighter as we listen to his words and his plan for our life, as Anna did! I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Biblical Fiction. AMAZING BOOK!
March 25, 2026
Anna's now married, and together with her husband Andrew, is following Jesus. Along dusty roads. Watching Him teach, multiply bread and fishes, and heal. And then, there's a surprise. But Anna has friends and companions in both the disciples and the other women who are followers of the Christ.
But when tragedy strikes, can Anna continue to love -- to follow -- and to believe?
Meanwhile, her father, Joseph of Arimathea, is being watched by the scribes and Pharisees. In fact, so is Jesus Himself. They're jealous for their own esteemed positions, and concerned about what Rome might think of this itinerant preacher and healer.
What is ahead for Anna, for Andrew and her father, and ultimately, for Jesus?
Susanne Blumer has written another astonishingly beautiful book about what it might have been like to follow Jesus; through the eyes of Anna of Bethsaida. I recommend this book to y ou 100%. You'll be moved, heartened, and blessed.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
But when tragedy strikes, can Anna continue to love -- to follow -- and to believe?
Meanwhile, her father, Joseph of Arimathea, is being watched by the scribes and Pharisees. In fact, so is Jesus Himself. They're jealous for their own esteemed positions, and concerned about what Rome might think of this itinerant preacher and healer.
What is ahead for Anna, for Andrew and her father, and ultimately, for Jesus?
Susanne Blumer has written another astonishingly beautiful book about what it might have been like to follow Jesus; through the eyes of Anna of Bethsaida. I recommend this book to y ou 100%. You'll be moved, heartened, and blessed.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2026
Amazing
I am amazed at how these books echo "The Chosen"! Reading your books are like the Gospels come to life! Looking forward to this next book! It's interesting giving Andrew a wife! And James! I am 83, was born in North Carolina, native to Wilmington, lived in, Georgia, Texas, Maine and upstate New York. My husband has been a pastor for over 50 years, so we have moved alot! Combining Joseph and Nicodemus was wonderful seeing as they both helped bury Jesus's body! Blessings!
I am amazed at how these books echo "The Chosen"! Reading your books are like the Gospels come to life! Looking forward to this next book! It's interesting giving Andrew a wife! And James! I am 83, was born in North Carolina, native to Wilmington, lived in, Georgia, Texas, Maine and upstate New York. My husband has been a pastor for over 50 years, so we have moved alot! Combining Joseph and Nicodemus was wonderful seeing as they both helped bury Jesus's body! Blessings!
April 20, 2026
This is the second book of a three part series. It’s the story of Anna in three different locations and her interactions with Jesus. The writing is vivid and all of the biblical stories are clearly and beautifully described. At times I cried due to descriptions. I am anxious to read the third book once it is published but do suggest if possible to read them in the order they are written. They will not disappoint.
April 18, 2026
This Second Book was even Better than the First Book
I love reading these books because they finally make the Bible so easy to understand. I have read about all the miracles but I could never put them in any type of order but these books are perfect. I love all the characters I found on the pages of these two books and I can't wait to start the third or
I love reading these books because they finally make the Bible so easy to understand. I have read about all the miracles but I could never put them in any type of order but these books are perfect. I love all the characters I found on the pages of these two books and I can't wait to start the third or
April 4, 2026
the most important events in history made real
Incredible story of love and discipleship making the last days of Jesus so real you believe them all over again in a much deeper way. The portrayal of Jesus inspired, authentic and mesmerising.
Incredible story of love and discipleship making the last days of Jesus so real you believe them all over again in a much deeper way. The portrayal of Jesus inspired, authentic and mesmerising.
May 2, 2026
Anna
Wonderful book, fiction but the love of Jesus is so real and his love for us is like no other !!!
Wonderful book, fiction but the love of Jesus is so real and his love for us is like no other !!!
May 7, 2026
If you like The Chosen you will love this series told from the inside of Jesus' circle. Now I have to wait until September 2026 for the 3rd book in the series. Felt like I was part of the group.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews