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The Cross Maker
First-century Palestine is a hotbed of political, cultural, and religious intrigue. Caleb ben Samson, a carpenter from Nazareth, and Sestus Aurelius, a Roman centurion, both want peace. Can this unlikely partnership accomplish what nothing else has accomplished before? Can they bring about peace through the power of the cross? And what role will Caleb's childhood friend Yeshi play in a land that longs for hope?
In The Cross Maker, Jack Taylor weaves a tapestry of creative history, powerful characters, and dynamic dialogue to bring to life a shadowy world. In a land where tragedy is as common as dust, triumph is about to make itself known.
In The Cross Maker, Jack Taylor weaves a tapestry of creative history, powerful characters, and dynamic dialogue to bring to life a shadowy world. In a land where tragedy is as common as dust, triumph is about to make itself known.
248 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2014
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15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
January 19, 2026
The Cross Maker is a compelling blend of historical imagination and spiritual reflection, set against the volatile backdrop of first-century Palestine. Jack Taylor takes a familiar era and breathes new life into it through original characters, emotional depth, and a story that balances tension with hope.
At the heart of the novel are two men from opposite worlds: Caleb ben Samson, a humble carpenter from Nazareth, and Sestus Aurelius, a disciplined Roman centurion. Their unlikely partnership is one of the book’s greatest strengths. Taylor explores how trust can grow even in a land divided by power, politics, and belief. Their shared desire for peace feels sincere, and watching them struggle toward that goal makes the story both human and moving.
Caleb is written with warmth and quiet strength. His inner conflict—between fear, duty, and faith—makes him easy to connect with. Sestus, on the other hand, brings a sharp contrast: shaped by Roman order and authority, yet slowly transformed by compassion and doubt. The tension between their worlds creates powerful moments that linger long after the page is turned.
The character of Yeshi adds a deeply emotional layer to the story. As Caleb’s childhood friend, Yeshi represents hope, sacrifice, and the mysterious pull of destiny. His presence is subtle but profound, and his role in the story gives the novel its spiritual heartbeat.
Taylor’s writing is vivid without being heavy. The dialogue feels natural, and the setting is rich with dust, danger, faith, and longing. You can almost feel the heat of the land and the weight of expectation resting on every character. The novel does not rush its message; instead, it lets meaning grow through choices, suffering, and quiet moments of courage.
The Cross Maker is more than historical fiction—it is a story about faith, friendship, sacrifice, and the possibility of peace in the darkest of times. Readers who enjoy biblical-era fiction, spiritual themes, and character-driven stories will find this book thoughtful, moving, and deeply memorable.
At the heart of the novel are two men from opposite worlds: Caleb ben Samson, a humble carpenter from Nazareth, and Sestus Aurelius, a disciplined Roman centurion. Their unlikely partnership is one of the book’s greatest strengths. Taylor explores how trust can grow even in a land divided by power, politics, and belief. Their shared desire for peace feels sincere, and watching them struggle toward that goal makes the story both human and moving.
Caleb is written with warmth and quiet strength. His inner conflict—between fear, duty, and faith—makes him easy to connect with. Sestus, on the other hand, brings a sharp contrast: shaped by Roman order and authority, yet slowly transformed by compassion and doubt. The tension between their worlds creates powerful moments that linger long after the page is turned.
The character of Yeshi adds a deeply emotional layer to the story. As Caleb’s childhood friend, Yeshi represents hope, sacrifice, and the mysterious pull of destiny. His presence is subtle but profound, and his role in the story gives the novel its spiritual heartbeat.
Taylor’s writing is vivid without being heavy. The dialogue feels natural, and the setting is rich with dust, danger, faith, and longing. You can almost feel the heat of the land and the weight of expectation resting on every character. The novel does not rush its message; instead, it lets meaning grow through choices, suffering, and quiet moments of courage.
The Cross Maker is more than historical fiction—it is a story about faith, friendship, sacrifice, and the possibility of peace in the darkest of times. Readers who enjoy biblical-era fiction, spiritual themes, and character-driven stories will find this book thoughtful, moving, and deeply memorable.
January 19, 2026
The Cross Maker by Jack Taylor is a powerful story of faith, friendship, and unlikely unity in a land torn by fear and division. Set in first-century Palestine, the novel captures a world where politics, religion, and survival collide daily, and where even hope feels dangerous.
Caleb ben Samson, a simple carpenter, and Sestus Aurelius, a Roman centurion, could not be more different—yet their shared longing for peace draws them together. Their relationship is written with honesty and depth, showing how trust must be built slowly, especially between enemies. Taylor does not make their partnership easy or convenient; instead, it grows through tension, doubt, and hard choices, which makes it believable and emotionally strong.
Yeshi, Caleb’s childhood friend, is the soul of the story. His quiet presence and mysterious purpose bring a sense of destiny that shapes every chapter. Through him, the novel explores sacrifice, love, and the cost of bringing hope into a broken world.
The writing is vivid and immersive, filled with dust, danger, and spiritual longing. The author paints the setting so clearly that the reader feels present in every scene. The dialogue flows naturally, and the emotional moments are handled with care rather than force.
The Cross Maker is a story that stays with you. It reminds readers that peace is never easy, but it is always worth seeking. This novel will especially resonate with readers who enjoy historical fiction with spiritual depth and strong character journeys.
Caleb ben Samson, a simple carpenter, and Sestus Aurelius, a Roman centurion, could not be more different—yet their shared longing for peace draws them together. Their relationship is written with honesty and depth, showing how trust must be built slowly, especially between enemies. Taylor does not make their partnership easy or convenient; instead, it grows through tension, doubt, and hard choices, which makes it believable and emotionally strong.
Yeshi, Caleb’s childhood friend, is the soul of the story. His quiet presence and mysterious purpose bring a sense of destiny that shapes every chapter. Through him, the novel explores sacrifice, love, and the cost of bringing hope into a broken world.
The writing is vivid and immersive, filled with dust, danger, and spiritual longing. The author paints the setting so clearly that the reader feels present in every scene. The dialogue flows naturally, and the emotional moments are handled with care rather than force.
The Cross Maker is a story that stays with you. It reminds readers that peace is never easy, but it is always worth seeking. This novel will especially resonate with readers who enjoy historical fiction with spiritual depth and strong character journeys.
January 19, 2026
Jack Taylor’s The Cross Maker is a moving work of historical fiction that blends imagination with spiritual meaning. Set in a restless and dangerous first-century Palestine, the novel tells a story where fear is common—but so is the longing for something greater.
Caleb ben Samson is a carpenter trying to live quietly in a world that will not stay quiet. Sestus Aurelius is a Roman centurion trained to control, command, and conquer. Their unexpected friendship is the heart of the novel. Watching two men from opposite sides of power and belief learn to respect and trust each other is both emotional and inspiring.
Yeshi, Caleb’s childhood friend, brings mystery and purpose to the story. His role is not loud, but it is powerful. Through Yeshi, the novel explores sacrifice, destiny, and the idea that one life can change the course of many others.
Taylor’s storytelling is gentle yet strong. He does not rely on action alone, but on emotion, faith, and quiet moments that carry deep meaning. The setting feels alive, full of heat, dust, danger, and hope. Each chapter adds another layer to a story that slowly builds toward something meaningful.
The Cross Maker is a thoughtful and touching novel about faith, peace, and courage. It is a story for readers who enjoy historical fiction that speaks to the heart as much as to the imagination.
Caleb ben Samson is a carpenter trying to live quietly in a world that will not stay quiet. Sestus Aurelius is a Roman centurion trained to control, command, and conquer. Their unexpected friendship is the heart of the novel. Watching two men from opposite sides of power and belief learn to respect and trust each other is both emotional and inspiring.
Yeshi, Caleb’s childhood friend, brings mystery and purpose to the story. His role is not loud, but it is powerful. Through Yeshi, the novel explores sacrifice, destiny, and the idea that one life can change the course of many others.
Taylor’s storytelling is gentle yet strong. He does not rely on action alone, but on emotion, faith, and quiet moments that carry deep meaning. The setting feels alive, full of heat, dust, danger, and hope. Each chapter adds another layer to a story that slowly builds toward something meaningful.
The Cross Maker is a thoughtful and touching novel about faith, peace, and courage. It is a story for readers who enjoy historical fiction that speaks to the heart as much as to the imagination.
January 17, 2026
The Cross Maker offers a vivid and respectful portrayal of first-century Palestine, capturing the tension, uncertainty, and longing of a people living under Roman rule. Jack A. Taylor’s storytelling is immersive, drawing readers into a world where faith, politics, and daily survival collide.
The relationship between Caleb ben Samson and the Roman centurion Sestus Aurelius is especially well written. Their shared desire for peace—despite coming from opposing worlds—gives the story emotional depth and moral complexity. The character of Yeshi is handled with care and subtlety, adding quiet strength and hope to the narrative.
This novel doesn’t rush its message; instead, it allows meaning to unfold naturally through character choices and dialogue. The result is a story that is both engaging and reflective. Fans of historical fiction with spiritual depth will find this book deeply rewarding.
The relationship between Caleb ben Samson and the Roman centurion Sestus Aurelius is especially well written. Their shared desire for peace—despite coming from opposing worlds—gives the story emotional depth and moral complexity. The character of Yeshi is handled with care and subtlety, adding quiet strength and hope to the narrative.
This novel doesn’t rush its message; instead, it allows meaning to unfold naturally through character choices and dialogue. The result is a story that is both engaging and reflective. Fans of historical fiction with spiritual depth will find this book deeply rewarding.
January 18, 2026
Jack A. Taylor has crafted a moving and thoughtful novel that shines light into one of history’s most turbulent eras. The Cross Maker balances historical authenticity with emotional storytelling, making the setting feel real and lived-in rather than distant.
Caleb’s journey as a carpenter seeking peace in a violent land is compelling, and his unlikely alliance with a Roman centurion adds tension and humanity to the story. The themes of sacrifice, redemption, and quiet faith are woven seamlessly into the plot without ever feeling heavy-handed.
This is the kind of book that stays with you—not because it overwhelms, but because it gently challenges the reader to think about hope, purpose, and the power of compassion.
Caleb’s journey as a carpenter seeking peace in a violent land is compelling, and his unlikely alliance with a Roman centurion adds tension and humanity to the story. The themes of sacrifice, redemption, and quiet faith are woven seamlessly into the plot without ever feeling heavy-handed.
This is the kind of book that stays with you—not because it overwhelms, but because it gently challenges the reader to think about hope, purpose, and the power of compassion.
January 19, 2026
The Cross Maker is a quietly powerful novel that explores faith, friendship, and the cost of peace in a deeply human way. Set against the tension-filled backdrop of first-century Palestine, the story follows two men from opposing worlds whose shared desire for peace leads to an unexpected partnership.
What stood out most to me was the balance between historical atmosphere and personal struggle. Caleb and Sestus are not idealized heroes—they are weary, questioning, and sincere, which makes their journey compelling. The spiritual themes are present but never heavy-handed, allowing the story to unfold naturally through character and dialogue.
A thoughtful and engaging read for anyone interested in historical fiction with depth and heart.
What stood out most to me was the balance between historical atmosphere and personal struggle. Caleb and Sestus are not idealized heroes—they are weary, questioning, and sincere, which makes their journey compelling. The spiritual themes are present but never heavy-handed, allowing the story to unfold naturally through character and dialogue.
A thoughtful and engaging read for anyone interested in historical fiction with depth and heart.
January 21, 2026
The Cross Maker draws you into first-century Palestine with vivid detail and emotional depth. The unlikely bond between a Roman centurion and a Jewish carpenter is both believable and moving. Jack A. Taylor handles spiritual themes with care, offering a story that is reflective without being preachy.
January 21, 2026
The Cross Maker draws you into first-century Palestine with vivid detail and emotional depth. The unlikely bond between a Roman centurion and a Jewish carpenter is both believable and moving. Jack A. Taylor handles spiritual themes with care, offering a story that is reflective without being preachy.
July 12, 2019
Kept me awake!
I give this 5 stars. This is the story of the man who made the cross Jesus died on. It is a great re-telling of a familiar story from a different viewpoint. I couldn't put it down.
I give this 5 stars. This is the story of the man who made the cross Jesus died on. It is a great re-telling of a familiar story from a different viewpoint. I couldn't put it down.
January 13, 2021
The reprint strengthens the great story line even better. A good look into the struggle between the Romans and the zealots during the time of Jesus. Well worth a look. Get the sequels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2026
The Cross Maker is a richly imagined and deeply moving novel that brings first-century Palestine vividly to life. Jack A. Taylor skillfully blends historical detail with compelling storytelling, creating characters that feel authentic, human, and emotionally grounded.
Caleb ben Samson and Sestus Aurelius form an unexpected and fascinating partnership—one that highlights the tension between Roman authority and Jewish life while offering a powerful meditation on peace, faith, and hope. Their interactions are layered with meaning, and the dialogue feels both natural and purposeful. The inclusion of Yeshi adds an emotional depth that quietly anchors the story and gives it a spiritual resonance without feeling forced or preachy.
What truly stands out is Taylor’s ability to portray a harsh, dust-filled world where suffering is common, yet hope still finds a way to emerge. The symbolism of the cross is woven thoughtfully into the narrative, giving the story weight and reflection while keeping it engaging and accessible.
This is a novel for readers who enjoy historical fiction with heart—one that challenges, inspires, and lingers long after the final page. The Cross Maker is a rewarding read that honors history while offering timeless themes of peace and redemption.
Caleb ben Samson and Sestus Aurelius form an unexpected and fascinating partnership—one that highlights the tension between Roman authority and Jewish life while offering a powerful meditation on peace, faith, and hope. Their interactions are layered with meaning, and the dialogue feels both natural and purposeful. The inclusion of Yeshi adds an emotional depth that quietly anchors the story and gives it a spiritual resonance without feeling forced or preachy.
What truly stands out is Taylor’s ability to portray a harsh, dust-filled world where suffering is common, yet hope still finds a way to emerge. The symbolism of the cross is woven thoughtfully into the narrative, giving the story weight and reflection while keeping it engaging and accessible.
This is a novel for readers who enjoy historical fiction with heart—one that challenges, inspires, and lingers long after the final page. The Cross Maker is a rewarding read that honors history while offering timeless themes of peace and redemption.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews