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A.D. #2
A.D. 33
New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker delivers the gripping story of Maviah, a slave who becomes a queen in Arabia, A.D. 33. They call her the Queen of the Outcasts. Maviah, a woman whose fate was sealed on her birth by this world-unwanted, illegitimate, female, a slave-subject to the whims of all. But then she met a man named Yeshua who opened her eyes. She found strength in his words, peace from the brutal word around her. Because of what he taught her, she has gathered her own traveling kingdom of outcasts deep in the desert, wielding an authority few have seen. But when her growing power threatens the rulers around her, they set out to crush all she loves, leaving her reeling as a slave once more. She must find Yeshua to save her people, but when she does, she will be horrified to discover that he faces his own death. Enter a story full of intrigue, heart-wrenching defeat, uncompromising love and staggering victory-one that re-examines everything you thought you knew about the heart of Jesus's stunning message and the power that follows for those who follow his easily forgotten way.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2015
432 people are currently reading
4409 people want to read
About the author
Ted Dekker
191 books9,990 followersTed Dekker is known for novels that combine adrenaline-laced stories with unexpected plot twists, unforgettable characters, and incredible confrontations between good and evil. Ted lives in Austin with his wife LeeAnn and their four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 434 reviews
December 22, 2015
I don't understand why people is rating this book... IT HASN'T COME OUT YET!!!
UPDATE: Well, it's released now. Go ahead people! Rate it while I'm still fighting with my long TBR :(
UPDATE:
I'm a Dekkie, which means I know Ted's writing style and what kind of books he writes. Of course, AD 30 was completely different from his previous books and so is AD 33.
We follow Maviah in her journey to meet Yeshua; and it's not the typical good-vs-evil novels by Ted Dekker but a very insightful book with a lot of message and meaning.
I'm delighted because the story grabbed me and took me to ancient times, and also because it helped me to see Yeshua and His disciples in a way I have never done before.
This trilogy is getting better and better, I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
UPDATE: Well, it's released now. Go ahead people! Rate it while I'm still fighting with my long TBR :(
UPDATE:
I'm a Dekkie, which means I know Ted's writing style and what kind of books he writes. Of course, AD 30 was completely different from his previous books and so is AD 33.
We follow Maviah in her journey to meet Yeshua; and it's not the typical good-vs-evil novels by Ted Dekker but a very insightful book with a lot of message and meaning.
I'm delighted because the story grabbed me and took me to ancient times, and also because it helped me to see Yeshua and His disciples in a way I have never done before.
This trilogy is getting better and better, I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
September 7, 2016
EPIC DISAPPOINTMENT.
This is still no doubt a powerful story with great spiritual truths. But I have no mind to read them after such a devastating and careless twist. Ted's plans for this story obviously had no respect for the reader's feelings.
This is still no doubt a powerful story with great spiritual truths. But I have no mind to read them after such a devastating and careless twist. Ted's plans for this story obviously had no respect for the reader's feelings.
August 4, 2020
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
In comparison to A.D. 30, this sequel contains less plot and more theology. Unfortunately, it’s just not as gripping. Jesus used parables to make the spiritual more tangible, whereas Dekker has a tendency to make the spiritual even more ephemeral. While this frequently works in his speculative novels, the A.D. duology is historical fiction. This makes the overly spiritual portrayal of the teachings of Jesus more difficult to grasp instead of more accessible. Even though the words of Jesus in this book are taken directly from Scripture, their portrayal in the minds of the perspective characters could lead to much confusion and floundering in readers who aren’t as familiar with the New Testament. While I appreciate what Dekker tried to do here, I don’t really think he succeeded.
In comparison to A.D. 30, this sequel contains less plot and more theology. Unfortunately, it’s just not as gripping. Jesus used parables to make the spiritual more tangible, whereas Dekker has a tendency to make the spiritual even more ephemeral. While this frequently works in his speculative novels, the A.D. duology is historical fiction. This makes the overly spiritual portrayal of the teachings of Jesus more difficult to grasp instead of more accessible. Even though the words of Jesus in this book are taken directly from Scripture, their portrayal in the minds of the perspective characters could lead to much confusion and floundering in readers who aren’t as familiar with the New Testament. While I appreciate what Dekker tried to do here, I don’t really think he succeeded.
March 4, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed returning to the story of Maviah. I loved the way Dekker brought Yeshua into the story in unexpected ways, allowing Him to interact with these fictional characters while sharing His recorded words and never putting made-up words into His mouth. The story stirred by heart and made me envision so much about those days leading up to the crucifixion and on until Pentecost. Highly recommended, but I suggest you read A.D. 30 before you read A.D. 33.
October 29, 2015
I was so captivated by Ted Dekker's prior book, A.D. 30, that I was worried that perhaps I wouldn't be able to enjoy his follow up, A.D.33, to quite the same extent. But I was certainly worried for nothing, as Dekker's latest read is every bit as good! Once again, from the first page I was swept up into Maviah's world among the Bedouin people, written was such realism that I could practically taste the grit of the sand between my teeth. My emotions followed hers as she was swept from peace to despair, from uncertainty to desperate hope that Jesus would rescue her in the way she thought she needed. I really enjoyed encountering Jesus through these non-Jewish characters, especially ones from such a mysterious land as Maviah and her people hail from. Dekker perfectly captures the despair that Jesus' followers felt as he was nailed to a cross and all seemed lost, with powerful writing that evokes deep emotion. Readers will experience the same hopelessness the characters feel, making the triumphant moments to come all the sweeter.
A.D. 33 is one wild ride after another, filled with drama and tension to the point that I simply couldn't put the book down. The characters are unique and larger than life, and the way they encounter Jesus had me longing to travel back in time so that I could witness what they do first hand. But easily my favourite part of the story is the last few chapters, written with such beauty that by the time I finished the last page I truly felt I'd entered into a spiritual moment while reading the book. Now how often can you say that about fiction?
Ted Dekker continues to astonish me with stories that he crafts, ones that not only capture my mind, but take hold of my heart as well. 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Center Street, a division of Hachette Book Group Canada, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
A.D. 33 is one wild ride after another, filled with drama and tension to the point that I simply couldn't put the book down. The characters are unique and larger than life, and the way they encounter Jesus had me longing to travel back in time so that I could witness what they do first hand. But easily my favourite part of the story is the last few chapters, written with such beauty that by the time I finished the last page I truly felt I'd entered into a spiritual moment while reading the book. Now how often can you say that about fiction?
Ted Dekker continues to astonish me with stories that he crafts, ones that not only capture my mind, but take hold of my heart as well. 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Center Street, a division of Hachette Book Group Canada, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
March 27, 2021
"La percepción es el medio para la verdadera creencia. Debido a que el ojo es tu lámpara. Si tu ojo está limpio verás la luz. Si no está limpio, si está obstruido por una viga de ofensas y juicios, seguirás estando ciego. Estarás atrapado en la oscuridad de las quejas, las ofensas y el juicio."
Las continuaciones no siempre son fáciles, sin embargo Ted Dekker, ha hecho una digna secuela con “33 D.C.”, aún cuando debo decir que mi favorito será siendo el primero; no solo porque no sabía esperar de la historia, del carácter de los personajes, como tampoco sabía cuánto podría apasionarme su lectura… pero como he dicho en reiteradas oportunidades, Dekker siempre ha sido una apuesta más que acertada.
En “33 D.C.” nos reencontramos con Maviah, dos años después de que dejamos a la reina de los marginados, quien ha logrado reunir seguidores en su reino itinerante que reside en las profundidades del desierto, ejerciendo un poder poco visto. Pero cuando este poder amenaza a algunos gobernantes, estos se levantan para aplastar todo aquello que ama, y dejarla una vez más, en la condición de esclava.
Esta serie cambió mucho mi perspectiva, es una novela más intensa, y a pesar de que conoces por la historia mucho de los sucesos, puedes apreciarlos desde una perspectiva distinta. Nuevamente, las descripciones te hacen sentir en la época y te permiten vivir las aventuras, el drama y la tensión de Maviah y sus acompañantes.
Una de las partes más especiales fue vivir el momento en que Yeshúa fue traicionado y condenado a ser crucificado, Dekker captura a la perfección la desesperación que sintieron sus seguidores, regalándonos una escritura poderosa que evoca una profunda emoción. Los lectores experimentarán la misma desesperanza de los personajes, y logrando que los momentos de triunfo posteriores sean aún más dulces.
Ted Dekker sigue asombrándome con las historias de ficción que es capaz de crear, y las reflexiones posteriores a las que te ves irremediablemente sujeto.
100% recomendada
"Una cosa era contemplar maravillas en el cielo; otra era caminar la tierra, llena de maravillas del cielo. Eso requería fe."
Las continuaciones no siempre son fáciles, sin embargo Ted Dekker, ha hecho una digna secuela con “33 D.C.”, aún cuando debo decir que mi favorito será siendo el primero; no solo porque no sabía esperar de la historia, del carácter de los personajes, como tampoco sabía cuánto podría apasionarme su lectura… pero como he dicho en reiteradas oportunidades, Dekker siempre ha sido una apuesta más que acertada.
En “33 D.C.” nos reencontramos con Maviah, dos años después de que dejamos a la reina de los marginados, quien ha logrado reunir seguidores en su reino itinerante que reside en las profundidades del desierto, ejerciendo un poder poco visto. Pero cuando este poder amenaza a algunos gobernantes, estos se levantan para aplastar todo aquello que ama, y dejarla una vez más, en la condición de esclava.
Esta serie cambió mucho mi perspectiva, es una novela más intensa, y a pesar de que conoces por la historia mucho de los sucesos, puedes apreciarlos desde una perspectiva distinta. Nuevamente, las descripciones te hacen sentir en la época y te permiten vivir las aventuras, el drama y la tensión de Maviah y sus acompañantes.
Una de las partes más especiales fue vivir el momento en que Yeshúa fue traicionado y condenado a ser crucificado, Dekker captura a la perfección la desesperación que sintieron sus seguidores, regalándonos una escritura poderosa que evoca una profunda emoción. Los lectores experimentarán la misma desesperanza de los personajes, y logrando que los momentos de triunfo posteriores sean aún más dulces.
Ted Dekker sigue asombrándome con las historias de ficción que es capaz de crear, y las reflexiones posteriores a las que te ves irremediablemente sujeto.
100% recomendada
"Una cosa era contemplar maravillas en el cielo; otra era caminar la tierra, llena de maravillas del cielo. Eso requería fe."
April 17, 2021
Listened to audio book*
This book is epic. Loved it way more than the first. There is so much sadness, so much greatness, so much story.
Love it, a perfect time to read during Passover in April. It has so much truth like some epic bible study, a great look on the way of Yahshua.
This book is epic. Loved it way more than the first. There is so much sadness, so much greatness, so much story.
Love it, a perfect time to read during Passover in April. It has so much truth like some epic bible study, a great look on the way of Yahshua.
September 13, 2019
Somewhat disappointed 😔 Not as good as A.D. 33, but it was an enjoyable read.
October 7, 2023
Confusing, convoluted, and weird pacing… 😬
November 8, 2016
Thank God I read this book!!! Amazing! I will read this again and again!. This book spoke to me in so many ways. I really believe Ted Dekker was motivated by the Holy Spirit to write this book.
Truly, We need to chose if we want to see the light and trust God and live in faith or to see darkness, & how dark it is when we chose darkness. The eye is the lamp of the body. Faith in Jesus Christ, who is the light, allows us to see in the dark. Learning to see the light even in darkness is Faith. Amen.
Truly, We need to chose if we want to see the light and trust God and live in faith or to see darkness, & how dark it is when we chose darkness. The eye is the lamp of the body. Faith in Jesus Christ, who is the light, allows us to see in the dark. Learning to see the light even in darkness is Faith. Amen.
February 5, 2017
This book still gets me... I saw a copy at a local bookstore and I had to have it. I couldn't wait to read it again. Yeshua's words are still as powerful and comforting, his ways still as bewildering as I remember. Maviah's journey moved me again. For all her outbursts and lashing out, Maviah is a better woman than most. At least she was willing to admit to being blind.
Surrender. Surrender is still the only way to true vision.
Surrender. Surrender is still the only way to true vision.
November 16, 2015
I loved this book! I learned so much from this story! The story of Lazarus will never be the same for me. Wonderful book!
October 28, 2015
Like its predecessor
A.D. 30
, Ted Dekker’s A.D. 33 tells a fascinating tale of epic adventure, romance and political intrigue. It draws the reader in to the life and times of Jesus, primarily from the viewpoint of a Bedouin woman who follows His teachings and interacts with Him on multiple occasions. But more than that, this story makes the reader think long and hard about what Jesus meant by some of his teachings, and about what it means to follow Him.
Maviah continues to be an interesting and relatable lead character, with difficult political and personal situations standing in the way of her goals. The author does a great job interweaving Maviah’s story with that of Jesus. We get to see a fair number of recognizable moments and teachings from His ministry through her eyes, without these interactions ever becoming too much or too coincidental for plausibility.
Along with Maviah, this book revisits familiar characters from the last book including Judah and Saba. It also introduces a number of new characters to the story including a precocious young orphan named Talya that Maviah has adopted in the years since the last installment.
The plot is gripping, with unexpected twists and some intensely emotional moments. I had tears streaming down my cheeks during the climactic scene. So beautiful and powerfully told!
I appreciated the fact that Dekker took the time to cite Biblical references for the teachings of Jesus in this book. I can’t say I’m in complete agreement with how some of the other characters in the story interpret some of Jesus’ teachings, or with all of the conclusions drawn from them. But I enjoyed looking at those teachings from a different angle. It prompted me to think long and hard about why I believe what I do believe. It also has me itching to re-read the New Testament to re-examine Jesus’ teachings for myself in their original context.
Overall, this is a beautifully written book that does a great job blending a gripping story with an inspiring message. Highly recommended.
Thank you to publisher Center Street for providing me with an electronic advance reader copy of this novel via NetGalley for review purposes. This review represents my own honest opinion.
This review first appeared at karencollier.com.
Maviah continues to be an interesting and relatable lead character, with difficult political and personal situations standing in the way of her goals. The author does a great job interweaving Maviah’s story with that of Jesus. We get to see a fair number of recognizable moments and teachings from His ministry through her eyes, without these interactions ever becoming too much or too coincidental for plausibility.
Along with Maviah, this book revisits familiar characters from the last book including Judah and Saba. It also introduces a number of new characters to the story including a precocious young orphan named Talya that Maviah has adopted in the years since the last installment.
The plot is gripping, with unexpected twists and some intensely emotional moments. I had tears streaming down my cheeks during the climactic scene. So beautiful and powerfully told!
I appreciated the fact that Dekker took the time to cite Biblical references for the teachings of Jesus in this book. I can’t say I’m in complete agreement with how some of the other characters in the story interpret some of Jesus’ teachings, or with all of the conclusions drawn from them. But I enjoyed looking at those teachings from a different angle. It prompted me to think long and hard about why I believe what I do believe. It also has me itching to re-read the New Testament to re-examine Jesus’ teachings for myself in their original context.
Overall, this is a beautifully written book that does a great job blending a gripping story with an inspiring message. Highly recommended.
Thank you to publisher Center Street for providing me with an electronic advance reader copy of this novel via NetGalley for review purposes. This review represents my own honest opinion.
This review first appeared at karencollier.com.
January 29, 2017
Source: ARC from Netgalley
This is the sequel to A.D. 30, where we first meet Maviah, the queen of the desert. It is also where Maviah meets Yeshua, the Teacher who has all power, and who is called by some the Messiah, Saviour of Israel.
After a defining moment at Petra, Maviah is set free to try to gain her people's loyalty. She would have no support save for Saba, the mighty warrior, and Yeshua, the Teacher who changed everything.
In two years, Maviah has gathered 20,000 loyals, all camped out in the desert with her. Although living conditions are harsh and they have next to nothing, Khalil wants total control, so he will not rest until he gets it. When Khalil strikes again, kidnapping Maviah's adopted child and six others, she runs to Shaquilath, the queen at Petra, for help. Shaquilath however, demands a demonstration of Yeshua's power. Only then will she consider intervening.
Maviah has seen the power of Yeshua first hand; his eyes alone brought peace to her troubled mind, and his power restored her sight at Petra two years before. But as we often do, she forgets. So, with Saba by her side, she sets out to find Yeshua again. He will remind her of his peace and rescue her son.
Yeshua is not without compassion for her, but as she soon discovers, he has his own burdens to carry.
When the snake rears its head again and strikes Maviah's heel, will she still see? Will she be willing to hate in order to love? To follow Yeshua's example in carrying her cross and following him? When the very power in which she places her trust seems to fail and all is at risk of being lost, will she remember who she is?
This story. This story. As soon as I started to read it, I felt like it was going to touch my heart in unprecedented ways, and I was right. It made me see Yeshua in a way that I hadn't, and it gave context and a deeper understanding to so many things.
This is for all the Maviahs of the world. The Marys, the Simons, the Sabas, the Talyas and the Judahs. The outcasts, the shamed, the sick, the ones who don't get picked first or picked at all. The ones whose hearts have been mortally wounded and who have been treated with utmost unfairness. The angry, the bereaved, the mourning, and the suffering. The ones who have lost everything. Yeshua sees your soul. He says to let the plank of offences go, so you can see his way. Surrender is the only way to see who you truly are.
This is the sequel to A.D. 30, where we first meet Maviah, the queen of the desert. It is also where Maviah meets Yeshua, the Teacher who has all power, and who is called by some the Messiah, Saviour of Israel.
After a defining moment at Petra, Maviah is set free to try to gain her people's loyalty. She would have no support save for Saba, the mighty warrior, and Yeshua, the Teacher who changed everything.
In two years, Maviah has gathered 20,000 loyals, all camped out in the desert with her. Although living conditions are harsh and they have next to nothing, Khalil wants total control, so he will not rest until he gets it. When Khalil strikes again, kidnapping Maviah's adopted child and six others, she runs to Shaquilath, the queen at Petra, for help. Shaquilath however, demands a demonstration of Yeshua's power. Only then will she consider intervening.
Maviah has seen the power of Yeshua first hand; his eyes alone brought peace to her troubled mind, and his power restored her sight at Petra two years before. But as we often do, she forgets. So, with Saba by her side, she sets out to find Yeshua again. He will remind her of his peace and rescue her son.
Yeshua is not without compassion for her, but as she soon discovers, he has his own burdens to carry.
When the snake rears its head again and strikes Maviah's heel, will she still see? Will she be willing to hate in order to love? To follow Yeshua's example in carrying her cross and following him? When the very power in which she places her trust seems to fail and all is at risk of being lost, will she remember who she is?
This story. This story. As soon as I started to read it, I felt like it was going to touch my heart in unprecedented ways, and I was right. It made me see Yeshua in a way that I hadn't, and it gave context and a deeper understanding to so many things.
This is for all the Maviahs of the world. The Marys, the Simons, the Sabas, the Talyas and the Judahs. The outcasts, the shamed, the sick, the ones who don't get picked first or picked at all. The ones whose hearts have been mortally wounded and who have been treated with utmost unfairness. The angry, the bereaved, the mourning, and the suffering. The ones who have lost everything. Yeshua sees your soul. He says to let the plank of offences go, so you can see his way. Surrender is the only way to see who you truly are.
May 9, 2018
I finish the books I start. I don't give one star reviews.
For me, this book had no heart. Judah was my favorite character in the series (the only one I sort of liked) and even when he was murdered I felt no emotions. A few days later and Maviah is in love with Saba? What is this? Have some respect for the dead.
I needed more room on my shelves anyway; something had to go.
Still like Dekker as an author. I'm glad to see this book spoke to others but... this series and I were never able to get on the same wavelength, and I did try.
For me, this book had no heart. Judah was my favorite character in the series (the only one I sort of liked) and even when he was murdered I felt no emotions. A few days later and Maviah is in love with Saba? What is this? Have some respect for the dead.
I needed more room on my shelves anyway; something had to go.
Still like Dekker as an author. I'm glad to see this book spoke to others but... this series and I were never able to get on the same wavelength, and I did try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2023
Gripping and heart wrenching, A.D. 33 was the perfect read for Holy Week. While the main character, Mariah, is fictional, as well as her plot and supporting characters, the account of Jesus and the events leading to His betrayal and death are very true. I was mesmerized as I watched the scenes in Gethsemane and Golgotha through Maviah’s eyes, as well as witnessing her understand the purpose of His death. So powerful. But even aside from that, Maviah’s own storyline kept me on the edge of my seat to the very last chapter. A great book for lovers of biblical fiction.
August 7, 2016
Wow. Just wow. This series is going to stick with me for a while because there is so much good stuff in them. I wondered how Mr Dekker was going to resolve the problems within the story, particularly as things continued to get more and more complex. Yet he stayed true to Scripture, made me consider my own heart, and provided an incredible ending that didn't disappoint in the slightest. This is a very good book and an excellent sequel to AD 30.
September 5, 2023
In both AD 30 and AD 33, Dekker masterfully paints a narratival picture of how a non-Jewish person might have encountered Jesus and his followers. Reading this expanded my perception of the Kingdom of God and I've been chewing on it for a few days since. Most prevalent was his portrayal of the nonviolent realities of the Kingdom in a violent world, and the love for others that seeps from the life of a Christ-follower.
March 10, 2018
Just okay. I expect more from Dekker. Perhaps because my favorite aspect of his writing is the way he folds a metaphor into his stories, then unravels them to reveal Biblical truth. This book tells about the gospel more than showing it. Showing is typically what Dekker does best, and I was disappointed.
Still a good book overall, just not up to what I expected from him.
Still a good book overall, just not up to what I expected from him.
June 25, 2024
Full video review below:
https://youtu.be/_gLNJnJKPMM
https://youtu.be/_gLNJnJKPMM
October 8, 2015
Ted Dekker in his new book, “A. D. 33″ Book Two in the A. D. series published by Center Street continues the story of Maviah.
From the back cover: They call her the Queen of the Outcasts. Maviah, a woman whose fate was sealed on her birth by this world-unwanted, illegitimate, female, a slave-subject to the whims of all. But then she met a man named Yeshua who opened her eyes. She found strength in his words, peace from the brutal word around her. Because of what he taught her, she has gathered her own traveling kingdom of outcasts deep in the desert, wielding an authority few have seen.
But when her growing power threatens the rulers around her, they set out to crush all she loves, leaving her reeling as a slave once more. She must find Yeshua to save her people, but when she does, she will be horrified to discover that he faces his own death.
Enter a story full of intrigue, heart-wrenching defeat, uncompromising love and staggering victory-one that re-examines everything you thought you knew about the heart of Jesus’s stunning message and the power that follows for those who follow his easily forgotten way.
A.D. 33 picks up where A.D. 30 left off. Maviah is now queen and doing her best to ensure peace according to what she learned from Jesus. However there are events that are occurring that threaten that peace and Maviah sets out to find Jesus again and gain a fresh filling. However what do you do when you find that Jesus is on His way to the cross? How does faith continue? Mr. Dekker has given us a thought-provoking story of faith when it is challenged and pushed to the extreme. Mr. Dekker has provided healthy amounts of scripture to give us the impact of Biblical wisdom. On top of all of this the story itself is very exciting. This is a book that will capture your attention and keep it as you keep flipping pages as fast as you can read to keep up with the story.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Center Street for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: They call her the Queen of the Outcasts. Maviah, a woman whose fate was sealed on her birth by this world-unwanted, illegitimate, female, a slave-subject to the whims of all. But then she met a man named Yeshua who opened her eyes. She found strength in his words, peace from the brutal word around her. Because of what he taught her, she has gathered her own traveling kingdom of outcasts deep in the desert, wielding an authority few have seen.
But when her growing power threatens the rulers around her, they set out to crush all she loves, leaving her reeling as a slave once more. She must find Yeshua to save her people, but when she does, she will be horrified to discover that he faces his own death.
Enter a story full of intrigue, heart-wrenching defeat, uncompromising love and staggering victory-one that re-examines everything you thought you knew about the heart of Jesus’s stunning message and the power that follows for those who follow his easily forgotten way.
A.D. 33 picks up where A.D. 30 left off. Maviah is now queen and doing her best to ensure peace according to what she learned from Jesus. However there are events that are occurring that threaten that peace and Maviah sets out to find Jesus again and gain a fresh filling. However what do you do when you find that Jesus is on His way to the cross? How does faith continue? Mr. Dekker has given us a thought-provoking story of faith when it is challenged and pushed to the extreme. Mr. Dekker has provided healthy amounts of scripture to give us the impact of Biblical wisdom. On top of all of this the story itself is very exciting. This is a book that will capture your attention and keep it as you keep flipping pages as fast as you can read to keep up with the story.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Center Street for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 29, 2017
Sequel to A.D. 30 and I highly recommend reading that book before reading this one. Maviah, the central character of both books, is living as a "Queen of the Desert" after the events of the last book. Several tribes have flocked to her and are learning more about the way of Yeshua. But when her enemies seek to crush her by destroying that which she loves, Maviah becomes confused and blinded. She feels that she must travel back to Judea to seek Yeshua and find guidance. She know that He will be able to help her save that which is near and dear to her. But when she arrives in Jerusalem in A.D. 33 she finds the Master and his disciples involved in much bigger events, and what follows will sorely test her faith.
It was wonderful to experience these characters again and experience Dekker's lush storytelling. This sequel was not as great as the first book, in my opinion, some of the interactions and how things were wrapped up seemed contrived to bring about a neatly wrapped up end to the story. Still, it was an excellent look at characters trying to figure out how to live by Yeshua's (Jesus') teachings at a time when there wouldn't have been much help from outside sources. Seeing them forced to figure out how to live out their lives as His disciples with only their memories of His words and His spirit inside them (eventually) was intriguing.
I recommend this book to seekers of what it means to walk in the ways of Yeshua (Jesus) who enjoy learning through a well told story.
It was wonderful to experience these characters again and experience Dekker's lush storytelling. This sequel was not as great as the first book, in my opinion, some of the interactions and how things were wrapped up seemed contrived to bring about a neatly wrapped up end to the story. Still, it was an excellent look at characters trying to figure out how to live by Yeshua's (Jesus') teachings at a time when there wouldn't have been much help from outside sources. Seeing them forced to figure out how to live out their lives as His disciples with only their memories of His words and His spirit inside them (eventually) was intriguing.
I recommend this book to seekers of what it means to walk in the ways of Yeshua (Jesus) who enjoy learning through a well told story.
May 1, 2016
A. D. 33 transports you back to the time of Jesus, and brings the words of the Bible to life as Maviah, the Queen of Outcasts, witnesses the miracles and love of Jesus. Maviah is an outsider, a Bedouin woman, an overthrown Queen forced from her own lands. In exile she meets Jesus, he can see the pain she has endured, the fears and loss. He teaches her a new way, the Way of Yeshua.
Dekker is a master at story telling and while I love all of his books A.D. 30 and A.D. 33 are truly like no other book he has written. Dekker has written everything from serial killers, to life fractured between two worlds, and now has gone back in time two thousand years to bring a fresh look at the man who changed the world like no other before and no one else since, Jesus.
A. D. 33 covers the time before Jesus' crucifixion up through his death, burial, and resurrection and beyond as his followers seek to spread his truth in a world full of lies. This duology is epic, intriguing and will keep you wanting more. While I'm sad that the story is over, it was amazing and I can't think of anything that could be added.
I can't wait to see what Ted Dekker comes up with next. 5 Stars
Dekker is a master at story telling and while I love all of his books A.D. 30 and A.D. 33 are truly like no other book he has written. Dekker has written everything from serial killers, to life fractured between two worlds, and now has gone back in time two thousand years to bring a fresh look at the man who changed the world like no other before and no one else since, Jesus.
A. D. 33 covers the time before Jesus' crucifixion up through his death, burial, and resurrection and beyond as his followers seek to spread his truth in a world full of lies. This duology is epic, intriguing and will keep you wanting more. While I'm sad that the story is over, it was amazing and I can't think of anything that could be added.
I can't wait to see what Ted Dekker comes up with next. 5 Stars
December 17, 2015
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
A great continuation of the series.
The second book in a series are always the most difficult to write because it has to continue the pace of the first, increase interest and make the reader aware of the story. With this book, Ted Dekker did what I thought impossible: beat A.D. 30.
This book is more intense; the risks more dangerous and scenes more addictive.
This book shows more deeply the nature of Jesus' disciples and others around him. Moreover, the descriptions make you feel at the time and take you to live the adventure, drama and tension of Maviah and their companions.
Finally, I don't want to make spoilers so all I can say is that I look forward to read the end and I highly recommend this series.
-I recieved a book from Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my honest review, which I did-
January 16, 2016
Empowering read.
A book that fills your soul with God's word, love and forgiveness.
I didn't read the first book, A.D. 30, and it didn't matter. I didn't feel lost or miss anything. So this can be and was read standalone.
Ted Dekker has a way of using a story to make you see the nature of some of God's most important teachings. In this book, he used many familiar biblical characters and a couple not-so-familiar ones to show the power of faith. I really loved Saba. His heart never wavered from God's way once. For all he had been through, it shows how pure his faith and love went. It was beautiful to read.
There were some deep heart-wrenching moments though. It is a biblical story, and we all know how barbaric life often was in that era. You can just imagine some of the more uncomfortable scenes in the story.
Still, those scenes were real and have a deep impact on the reader, as well as in the story. I liked this book, and know many of you biblical fiction fans will like it too.
3.5/5
A book that fills your soul with God's word, love and forgiveness.
I didn't read the first book, A.D. 30, and it didn't matter. I didn't feel lost or miss anything. So this can be and was read standalone.
Ted Dekker has a way of using a story to make you see the nature of some of God's most important teachings. In this book, he used many familiar biblical characters and a couple not-so-familiar ones to show the power of faith. I really loved Saba. His heart never wavered from God's way once. For all he had been through, it shows how pure his faith and love went. It was beautiful to read.
There were some deep heart-wrenching moments though. It is a biblical story, and we all know how barbaric life often was in that era. You can just imagine some of the more uncomfortable scenes in the story.
Still, those scenes were real and have a deep impact on the reader, as well as in the story. I liked this book, and know many of you biblical fiction fans will like it too.
3.5/5
February 24, 2019
Decent story with a cheesy ending
I think it's only fair to judge such a book with strict standards. If you're going to use Jesus as one of the main characters, you have to do an incredibly good job. Unfortunately,this novel fell short for me in a few key ways. I was fully gripped by the early scenes with Jesus and his crucifixion. I also found that this book opened my eyes to his suffering and live in a wonderful new way. Yet, I found the shifting live interest (Judah to Saba) to be contrary tho how Judah was so firmly characterized in the first book of the series. I was also really annoyed with the book's ending. It seemed like the author was trying so hard to craft an epic ending; but it really just came off as dramatic and a little cringeworthy for me. Again: If you're going to characterize the Lord in your writing, you'd better do it with expertise and care. This approach, I felt, was a valiant effort but was lacking.
I think it's only fair to judge such a book with strict standards. If you're going to use Jesus as one of the main characters, you have to do an incredibly good job. Unfortunately,this novel fell short for me in a few key ways. I was fully gripped by the early scenes with Jesus and his crucifixion. I also found that this book opened my eyes to his suffering and live in a wonderful new way. Yet, I found the shifting live interest (Judah to Saba) to be contrary tho how Judah was so firmly characterized in the first book of the series. I was also really annoyed with the book's ending. It seemed like the author was trying so hard to craft an epic ending; but it really just came off as dramatic and a little cringeworthy for me. Again: If you're going to characterize the Lord in your writing, you'd better do it with expertise and care. This approach, I felt, was a valiant effort but was lacking.
September 18, 2019
I couldn't put it down, until the last few chapters. I was astounded by the characters. Judah has got to be still one of my most beloved. His death could of been in better detail. I was just kind of left as... Really? That's it?
Then Maviah hooks up with Saba, after the death of her lover.
Yeah.... Kind of shady to me... She should of taken time to mourn Judah's death. I'm still in mourning, and he is a fictional character.
The ending sucks!.... SUCKS! I won't go into detail because... Simply.... I can't... I just can't.
Then Maviah hooks up with Saba, after the death of her lover.
Yeah.... Kind of shady to me... She should of taken time to mourn Judah's death. I'm still in mourning, and he is a fictional character.
The ending sucks!.... SUCKS! I won't go into detail because... Simply.... I can't... I just can't.
November 3, 2015
A Quickie Review
The second in Ted Dekker's Biblical historical fiction series, this is a gripping portrait of a life changed by Yeshua, the one true Savior of the world. Dekker is an amazing author, and this is another great work from him. Fans of his other books should check this one out.
Score: 4/5
The second in Ted Dekker's Biblical historical fiction series, this is a gripping portrait of a life changed by Yeshua, the one true Savior of the world. Dekker is an amazing author, and this is another great work from him. Fans of his other books should check this one out.
Score: 4/5
February 9, 2017
The strength of this work is in its expression of profound spiritual truths found in the simple gospel of the resurrected Christ. I am not even sure what I think of the writing, the plot, or the historical accuracy, and it doesn't matter because I am changed. I am reminded of who I am, and of the way so often forgotten.
November 10, 2015
Awesome book. I think I liked it even better than AD 30. It was interesting to look at the life and teachings of Jesus from a different perspective. Highly recommended.
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