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The Arimathea Chronicles #3
Anna of Calvary
She followed him to Jerusalem. She will not leave him now.
Anna has walked beside Jesus from the shores of Galilee to the gates of the Holy City, watched him heal the sick and raise the dead, and staked everything on a promise he made her that she cannot yet see fulfilled. Now the palms are waving, the crowds are shouting Hosanna, and the men who want him dead are already moving against him.
This is the week that shook the earth and split the temple veil. The week you have read about your whole life, sung about on Sunday mornings, and wept over at Easter. The week that changed everything. But you have never lived it. Not like this. Not through the hands that touched him, the voice that called his name, the faith that held on when holding on meant watching him die.
Anna was there. And now, so are you.
Anna of Calvary is the third book in The Arimathea Chronicles, a biblical fiction series that now brings the most sacred week in Christian history to life through the eyes and heart of one woman who loved him and would not look away. Intimate, devastating, and grounded in Scripture, this is the story of what it costs to stay.
Anna has walked beside Jesus from the shores of Galilee to the gates of the Holy City, watched him heal the sick and raise the dead, and staked everything on a promise he made her that she cannot yet see fulfilled. Now the palms are waving, the crowds are shouting Hosanna, and the men who want him dead are already moving against him.
This is the week that shook the earth and split the temple veil. The week you have read about your whole life, sung about on Sunday mornings, and wept over at Easter. The week that changed everything. But you have never lived it. Not like this. Not through the hands that touched him, the voice that called his name, the faith that held on when holding on meant watching him die.
Anna was there. And now, so are you.
Anna of Calvary is the third book in The Arimathea Chronicles, a biblical fiction series that now brings the most sacred week in Christian history to life through the eyes and heart of one woman who loved him and would not look away. Intimate, devastating, and grounded in Scripture, this is the story of what it costs to stay.
- GenresBiblical Fiction
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2026
About the author
Susanne Blumer
34 books144 followersSusanne Blumer lives her life surrounded by stories—some she writes, and some she sells.
She is an award-winning biblical historical fiction author best known for *The Arimathea Chronicles*, a four-book series that brings the people and places of the New Testament to life through the eyes of Anna, the daughter of Joseph of Arimathea. Her debut novel, *Anna of Arimathea*, received the 2026 Christian Market Biblical Fiction Book of the Year award from the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA).
Susanne is also the author of *Judas*, a standalone biblical fiction novel exploring the life of one of Scripture's most misunderstood men. Her upcoming series, *The Britannia Chronicles*, continues Anna's journey beyond the Holy Land and into ancient Britain.
In addition to her biblical fiction, Susanne writes children's books, including the award-winning *Bell Tower Bible Adventures* series, co-authored with her husband.
A lifelong book lover and champion of Christian fiction, Susanne owns two Sassafras bookstores in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and Beaufort, South Carolina. She divides her time between the mountains and the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she can usually be found drinking coffee, dreaming up another story, or planning her next adventure.
Discover her books and connect with Susanne at **susanneblumer.com**.
She is an award-winning biblical historical fiction author best known for *The Arimathea Chronicles*, a four-book series that brings the people and places of the New Testament to life through the eyes of Anna, the daughter of Joseph of Arimathea. Her debut novel, *Anna of Arimathea*, received the 2026 Christian Market Biblical Fiction Book of the Year award from the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA).
Susanne is also the author of *Judas*, a standalone biblical fiction novel exploring the life of one of Scripture's most misunderstood men. Her upcoming series, *The Britannia Chronicles*, continues Anna's journey beyond the Holy Land and into ancient Britain.
In addition to her biblical fiction, Susanne writes children's books, including the award-winning *Bell Tower Bible Adventures* series, co-authored with her husband.
A lifelong book lover and champion of Christian fiction, Susanne owns two Sassafras bookstores in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and Beaufort, South Carolina. She divides her time between the mountains and the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she can usually be found drinking coffee, dreaming up another story, or planning her next adventure.
Discover her books and connect with Susanne at **susanneblumer.com**.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 18, 2026
Well, it's official. Susanne Blumer gets the hat trick. Of all the Biblical fiction stories centered on Jesus' ministry, of which there are many, this might be the best one I've ever seen. It's certainly the best I have ever read.
Without going into a fairly significant spoiler, Anna of Calvary gets the honor of being one of the only books that have ever made me cry. By which I mean, full-on sobbing. Moreover, this didn't happen where and when you might think. But again, I can't risk spoiling it. All I will say is that here more than in the other two books, Jesus' love for His followers, how well He knows them, and how deeply He sees them, affected me. It shines through on every page.
As other reviewers have noted, Susanne's writing did make me feel as if I was inside Holy Week in person. The crucifixion was particularly harrowing because of two things. One, it's written in a minute by minute fashion, such that I was anxious to get through it, but also understood it in a new way. Two, it's written from Anna's perspective. We don't hear a ton about the women at the cross, except Mary the mother of Jesus--and she is important. She's vital. But it's rare if ever that I've seen the crucifixion from a woman's point of view, which made it more urgent, raw, and real for me.
I also appreciated Susanne's take on the resurrection. As with the rest of the book, the scene itself is straight out of Scripture. Yet because I watched this familiar, beloved scene through Anna's eyes, I got some new insights. Namely, the idea that waiting, resting with the knowledge, is as vital as running. Again, not going to explain too much, but this spoke to me on a deep level.
I would love to gush over this review and talk about all my favorite scenes, but I decided not to do that so you can find your own treasures within. Just know Susanne nails every bit of Holy Week and beyond, from the triumphal entry through the resurrection and the beginning of the aftermath. And the twist at the end--yes, it's fictional, but as she said, it fits into what could have been a gap. I'm now eager to read Anna of Jerusalem, and surprisingly eager to investigate Judas' story (even in fiction, are there insights about him and his choices I never considered and need to know)? Anyway, if you haven't caught up with this series, do so ASAP. You will be thoroughly swept away and yes, inspired.
Without going into a fairly significant spoiler, Anna of Calvary gets the honor of being one of the only books that have ever made me cry. By which I mean, full-on sobbing. Moreover, this didn't happen where and when you might think. But again, I can't risk spoiling it. All I will say is that here more than in the other two books, Jesus' love for His followers, how well He knows them, and how deeply He sees them, affected me. It shines through on every page.
As other reviewers have noted, Susanne's writing did make me feel as if I was inside Holy Week in person. The crucifixion was particularly harrowing because of two things. One, it's written in a minute by minute fashion, such that I was anxious to get through it, but also understood it in a new way. Two, it's written from Anna's perspective. We don't hear a ton about the women at the cross, except Mary the mother of Jesus--and she is important. She's vital. But it's rare if ever that I've seen the crucifixion from a woman's point of view, which made it more urgent, raw, and real for me.
I also appreciated Susanne's take on the resurrection. As with the rest of the book, the scene itself is straight out of Scripture. Yet because I watched this familiar, beloved scene through Anna's eyes, I got some new insights. Namely, the idea that waiting, resting with the knowledge, is as vital as running. Again, not going to explain too much, but this spoke to me on a deep level.
I would love to gush over this review and talk about all my favorite scenes, but I decided not to do that so you can find your own treasures within. Just know Susanne nails every bit of Holy Week and beyond, from the triumphal entry through the resurrection and the beginning of the aftermath. And the twist at the end--yes, it's fictional, but as she said, it fits into what could have been a gap. I'm now eager to read Anna of Jerusalem, and surprisingly eager to investigate Judas' story (even in fiction, are there insights about him and his choices I never considered and need to know)? Anyway, if you haven't caught up with this series, do so ASAP. You will be thoroughly swept away and yes, inspired.
June 27, 2026
I so loved this book. This is book 3 of the Anna of . . . series. In this book, Anna, wife of Andrew (Simon Peter's brother) walks with Jesus through his final days, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. I know what happens next in the biblical account and I lean into the story expectantly. An example of this author's talent is when Jesus had appeared to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and others after His resurrection. There is no biblical record of Him appearing to His mother. The author hears her heartbeat and longing as she listens to the testimonies of others. Then I read, "My aunt shaded her eyes with her hand. “Is that Peter’s boat?” I squinted at the water. The boat was still far out, a dark shape against the gray, and the figures of the men moved about on the deck. “I think so,” I said. “It looks like his.” We stood there at the water’s edge and waited while the light grew stronger and the boat drifted closer to shore, the men hauling at the oars. We heard the creak of wood against wood and the splash as the blades bit into the water and, beneath it all, the slap of small waves against the hull and the distant cry of gulls overhead. A figure appeared farther down the beach, crouched beside a small fire. A man, alone, was tending the flames. He was too far away to make out his features, just a shape against the brightening sky, and I paid him little mind." As a mother of a son, I know . . .
June 11, 2026
Anna of Calvary is a powerful and deeply moving addition to The Arimathea Chronicles. Susanne Blumer once again brings biblical history to life with remarkable emotional depth, allowing readers to experience familiar events through fresh eyes and a profoundly personal perspective.
What makes this series so compelling is its ability to combine scriptural faithfulness with immersive storytelling. Throughout the trilogy, Anna has grown into a memorable and relatable character whose journey adds emotional resonance to some of the most significant moments in Christian history. In this installment, the events of Holy Week are portrayed with intimacy, heartbreak, hope, and unwavering faith.
As a whole, The Arimathea Chronicles stands as an impressive work of biblical fiction, offering readers a meaningful way to engage with the Gospel narrative while becoming deeply invested in the lives of its characters. Anna of Calvary is a fitting and unforgettable continuation of a series that consistently delivers both spiritual insight and emotional impact.
What makes this series so compelling is its ability to combine scriptural faithfulness with immersive storytelling. Throughout the trilogy, Anna has grown into a memorable and relatable character whose journey adds emotional resonance to some of the most significant moments in Christian history. In this installment, the events of Holy Week are portrayed with intimacy, heartbreak, hope, and unwavering faith.
As a whole, The Arimathea Chronicles stands as an impressive work of biblical fiction, offering readers a meaningful way to engage with the Gospel narrative while becoming deeply invested in the lives of its characters. Anna of Calvary is a fitting and unforgettable continuation of a series that consistently delivers both spiritual insight and emotional impact.
July 3, 2026
Oh, my goodness! Not only was I able to see this time through Anna's eyes, but I felt I was experiencing everything that happened during those final days with Jesus before the crucifixion. I also experienced the joy she felt when she learned he had risen! I have already pre-purchased the next book and can't wait to find out what happens next.
August 4, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this next book in the “Arimethea Chronicles.” The feeling and emotions written into this story make it feel so real and truly brought the last weeks of Jesus’ time walking on earth in human form to life. His death and resurrection was felt so much that I had to stop and collect myself. What a powerful story and perfect for anyone looking for a good read around Easter.
August 16, 2026
as if i were there
I am enthralled with this series. I feel like I am in the narrative and experiencing everything myself. It makes me think of what it was like for Jesus and his disciples. The beginning of the truth that is there for all of us. God loves all and wants you home. Jesus is the way!
I am enthralled with this series. I feel like I am in the narrative and experiencing everything myself. It makes me think of what it was like for Jesus and his disciples. The beginning of the truth that is there for all of us. God loves all and wants you home. Jesus is the way!
June 6, 2026
Behold Redemption & True Love
Anna is only a part of this story . It brings to life Jesus Christ Story with His disciples like you're one of them the conversations that they have what they think Jesus closeness. Beautifully written !!
Anna is only a part of this story . It brings to life Jesus Christ Story with His disciples like you're one of them the conversations that they have what they think Jesus closeness. Beautifully written !!
June 19, 2026
Book 3 of a series that did not disappoint.
Andrew and Anna are now approaching Holy Week and all the trials and tribulations Jesus must go through.
The story has a more personal touch due to the excess of characters but still realistic. Will wait patiently for the next book. A definite thumbs up!
Andrew and Anna are now approaching Holy Week and all the trials and tribulations Jesus must go through.
The story has a more personal touch due to the excess of characters but still realistic. Will wait patiently for the next book. A definite thumbs up!
June 26, 2026
amazing
Really appreciate the authors ability to place us in Jesus time, she recreates the tastes, smells, colors and sights but especially Jesus and His teaching. Excellent series.
Really appreciate the authors ability to place us in Jesus time, she recreates the tastes, smells, colors and sights but especially Jesus and His teaching. Excellent series.
July 2, 2026
a wonderful read
The third episode in the life of Anna a follower of Jesus as she lives through the agony of his crucifixion and the joy of his resurrection! Beautifully and sympathetically written.
The third episode in the life of Anna a follower of Jesus as she lives through the agony of his crucifixion and the joy of his resurrection! Beautifully and sympathetically written.
June 7, 2026
Great read
I love this series, as it makes Biblical people more relatable. The author did a fantastic job recounting Jesus’ passion.
I love this series, as it makes Biblical people more relatable. The author did a fantastic job recounting Jesus’ passion.
August 12, 2026
Anna of Calvary
I loved this book. It was very thought provoking. The writing is excellent. I could almost believe I wax there. It wss a blessing. Thank you
I loved this book. It was very thought provoking. The writing is excellent. I could almost believe I wax there. It wss a blessing. Thank you
July 22, 2026
wonderful story
This book shows how intimate and real the people could be.It felt so real. The story was woven with Biblical accounts and facts and told very well.
This book shows how intimate and real the people could be.It felt so real. The story was woven with Biblical accounts and facts and told very well.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews