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The Vatican Chronicles #2
The Anonymous Scribe
When the lie is two thousand years old, who, exactly, will the truth set free?
While analyzing parchment fragments from the Dead Sea Scrolls, grad student Susan Bauer pieces together text that indicates the existence of a stolen Secret Temple Scroll that was penned decades before the gospels. If discovered, this document could free the Jewish people from the centuries’-long blemish that they are responsible for Yeshua’s death.
It could also turn Christianity on its head.
From the basement of the Israeli Museum to a basilica in a picturesque French village to the ruins of Herculaneum, ex-Mossad Yigael Dorian and blacklisted archaeologists Valentina Vella and Erika Simone journey on a transcontinental chase, dodging thieves, kidnappers, cardinals, and enlisting mobsters to uncover the truth behind this rumored scroll.
It is the writer of this document, however, who has the final word in a mesmerizing depiction of life in the Galilee alongside Yeshua.
From the writers of The Mystery of Julia Episcopa, comes Book II in the Vatican Chronicles series: The Anonymous Scribe
While analyzing parchment fragments from the Dead Sea Scrolls, grad student Susan Bauer pieces together text that indicates the existence of a stolen Secret Temple Scroll that was penned decades before the gospels. If discovered, this document could free the Jewish people from the centuries’-long blemish that they are responsible for Yeshua’s death.
It could also turn Christianity on its head.
From the basement of the Israeli Museum to a basilica in a picturesque French village to the ruins of Herculaneum, ex-Mossad Yigael Dorian and blacklisted archaeologists Valentina Vella and Erika Simone journey on a transcontinental chase, dodging thieves, kidnappers, cardinals, and enlisting mobsters to uncover the truth behind this rumored scroll.
It is the writer of this document, however, who has the final word in a mesmerizing depiction of life in the Galilee alongside Yeshua.
From the writers of The Mystery of Julia Episcopa, comes Book II in the Vatican Chronicles series: The Anonymous Scribe
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
438 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
John I. Rigoli
7 books40 followersDiane Cummings is a California girl, a UCLA alum, and is currently sweating in Atlanta, Georgia, with the world’s smallest Persian cat. Diane has worked as a reporter and news director. Deciding that truth was too much stranger than fiction, she turned in her microphone and press pass and set about applying her passion for writing and editing to the world of literature. Diane has edited or ghostwritten more than fifty titles – and now she wants her name on the cover. The Vatican Chronicle Trilogy has encompassed six years of research, writing, and polishing and she hopes you enjoy Book 1 – The Mystery of Julia Episcopa as much as she has enjoyed writing it.
John Ignatius Rigoli’s experiences as both a cradle Catholic and former US Naval officer informed his world view in a rather unexpected manner, opening his eyes to the proposition that those who seek power are the last people who should hold it. John is an unabashed social justice advocate, outspoken liberal, and a patriot – and sees no dichotomy in this. As a talented and inquisitive amateur historian, John became interested in the stories of the earliest women in the catholic church, and how they have been erased. Though a work of historical fiction, The Vatican Chronicles takes its inspiration from the real women throughout history who toiled unacknowledged alongside their brothers.
John Ignatius Rigoli’s experiences as both a cradle Catholic and former US Naval officer informed his world view in a rather unexpected manner, opening his eyes to the proposition that those who seek power are the last people who should hold it. John is an unabashed social justice advocate, outspoken liberal, and a patriot – and sees no dichotomy in this. As a talented and inquisitive amateur historian, John became interested in the stories of the earliest women in the catholic church, and how they have been erased. Though a work of historical fiction, The Vatican Chronicles takes its inspiration from the real women throughout history who toiled unacknowledged alongside their brothers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 30, 2016
Another book dredged from the bottom of the Kindle that I'd owned forever and not read. Christian fiction with a Da Vinci Code flavor. I can't remember who recommended this to me, but I'd like to thank them.
March 14, 2022
Book Review: The Anonymous Scribe, The Vatican Chronicles #2
by John I. Rigoli, Diane Cummings
Published March 15, 2022 by The Book Whisperer
★★★☆☆ (3.25 Stars) Mixed rating!
For a short volume, this book delivered much more substance than I expected. And while I can appreciate that through his writing author John Rigoli seeks to advance his causes as an "unabashed social justice advocate and outspoken liberal", focused, as it appears, on women's inequality issues, particularly vis-à-vis the hierarchy of the Church, his activism simply distracts the reader, and weakens the power and magic of his story.
First published in 2009, Book 2, "The Anonymous Scribe" is presented as a prequel to Book 1, "The Mystery of Julia Episcopa" (2016), with both volumes repackaged as the "Vatican Chronicles".
Although the term "Vatican" is used, the series is presented as historical fiction, not Christian fiction. Rather, a secular and fictional reenactment of certain biblical events.
Set in dual timelines, the biblical premise of "The Anonymous Scribe" is quite compelling. The present-day parts of the book, not as much.
-----
AD 30, Jerusalem.
An anonymous Pharisee from Sepphoris pens two important works on papyri. One which may have lead to the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. The other, quite possibly the first gospel in early Christianity.
The scribe had met the man from Galilee and was entrusted by the Sanhedrin to expose and destroy Him as a fraud.
Then he walked with Him for three years.
And found himself in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
(Powerful!)
After the death and crucifixion of Christ, the scribe is given refuge by a Roman noblewoman. They flee to the a town near Pompeii, at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. Her name was Julia Lucinia.
She would be later known as Julia Episcopa. (Book 1)
Centuries later, the anonymous scribe's first scroll is discovered.
Now coined the "Secret Temple Scroll", the ancient parchment sends certain parties into a frenzy. Each to their own design...
-----
The name Jesus appears to be anathema to the author(s) of this book. "Yeshua" is the name ascribed so as to somehow render an "authentic" Hebrew /Aramaic flavor. Yet, the protagonist scribe isn't given an Aramaic name, nor is his profession referenced in Aramaic. Nor are the apostles or any else given theirs. "Yeshua" directly addresses the scribe in the English "scribe". Impersonal, awkward.
And even in present-day, modern era scenarios in the book, the name "Yeshua" is superficially substituted for Jesus.
The book talks little of the miracles. And the one time it expounds on one, the scribe writes as though Jesus himself were surprised and astounded by his "accidental" feat.
One example of advocacy comes in the persona of the bride of the wedding in Cana blest by the presence of Jesus, Mary, his mother, and the apostles, where Jesus performs the miracle of water into wine. (John 2:1-11) The bride in this book is transformed into a liberated woman who flees from her husband (seeks a divorce in modern parlance), and is subsequently found in Jesus' entourage in time to try to seduce the scribe.
A powerful story, completely ruined by an agenda.
Review based on an advanced reading copy courtesy of The Book Whisperer and NetGalley.
by John I. Rigoli, Diane Cummings
Published March 15, 2022 by The Book Whisperer
★★★☆☆ (3.25 Stars) Mixed rating!
For a short volume, this book delivered much more substance than I expected. And while I can appreciate that through his writing author John Rigoli seeks to advance his causes as an "unabashed social justice advocate and outspoken liberal", focused, as it appears, on women's inequality issues, particularly vis-à-vis the hierarchy of the Church, his activism simply distracts the reader, and weakens the power and magic of his story.
First published in 2009, Book 2, "The Anonymous Scribe" is presented as a prequel to Book 1, "The Mystery of Julia Episcopa" (2016), with both volumes repackaged as the "Vatican Chronicles".
Although the term "Vatican" is used, the series is presented as historical fiction, not Christian fiction. Rather, a secular and fictional reenactment of certain biblical events.
Set in dual timelines, the biblical premise of "The Anonymous Scribe" is quite compelling. The present-day parts of the book, not as much.
-----
AD 30, Jerusalem.
An anonymous Pharisee from Sepphoris pens two important works on papyri. One which may have lead to the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. The other, quite possibly the first gospel in early Christianity.
The scribe had met the man from Galilee and was entrusted by the Sanhedrin to expose and destroy Him as a fraud.
Then he walked with Him for three years.
And found himself in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
(Powerful!)
After the death and crucifixion of Christ, the scribe is given refuge by a Roman noblewoman. They flee to the a town near Pompeii, at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. Her name was Julia Lucinia.
She would be later known as Julia Episcopa. (Book 1)
Centuries later, the anonymous scribe's first scroll is discovered.
Now coined the "Secret Temple Scroll", the ancient parchment sends certain parties into a frenzy. Each to their own design...
-----
The name Jesus appears to be anathema to the author(s) of this book. "Yeshua" is the name ascribed so as to somehow render an "authentic" Hebrew /Aramaic flavor. Yet, the protagonist scribe isn't given an Aramaic name, nor is his profession referenced in Aramaic. Nor are the apostles or any else given theirs. "Yeshua" directly addresses the scribe in the English "scribe". Impersonal, awkward.
And even in present-day, modern era scenarios in the book, the name "Yeshua" is superficially substituted for Jesus.
The book talks little of the miracles. And the one time it expounds on one, the scribe writes as though Jesus himself were surprised and astounded by his "accidental" feat.
One example of advocacy comes in the persona of the bride of the wedding in Cana blest by the presence of Jesus, Mary, his mother, and the apostles, where Jesus performs the miracle of water into wine. (John 2:1-11) The bride in this book is transformed into a liberated woman who flees from her husband (seeks a divorce in modern parlance), and is subsequently found in Jesus' entourage in time to try to seduce the scribe.
A powerful story, completely ruined by an agenda.
Review based on an advanced reading copy courtesy of The Book Whisperer and NetGalley.
March 16, 2022
Written with two different timelines, one current day among current events, and the other back in Yeshua's time with the anonymous scribe. The premise is that a young scribe, fresh out of schooling, is tasked with collecting a testimonial account of Yeshua's words and actions, and boy does he do just that. The modern day collection of individuals thrown together gives almost the same feel as the crew from the National Treasure movies, but instead of the two teams racing to find the treasure for notoriety, it's a crew lead by a Jewish man versus the church, the Vatican church, of all things, as to expose a scroll written not 30 or so years after Yeshua's death, but ... during the time he was living, that would/could/should alter the course of the church, Christianity, and Israel. I didn't realize when reading this that this was the second book in a series, the first being The Mystery of Julia Episcopa, but it didn't matter in reading of this book, meaning it stood alone on it's own, though now I have to read the first book myself. Very well done and thoroughly enjoyable to read.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*
February 28, 2022
I would like to thank the authors and Netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC free for an honest review. A young man from goes to the city of Jerusalem to be educated as a scribe. Soon after returning home to Galilee in AD 30, he is tasked by the church elders with getting close to a man to see whether or not his preaching goes against the church's teaching. He starts traveling around and is beaten by two Roman soldiers, from which he never really recovers. He travels around the country and soon goes to a town where Yeshua is going to speak and after that he becomes Yeshua’s scribe. He comes to love Yeshua and his disciples. This is both Scribe’s story (he is never named but goes by ‘Scribe’) and the story of the archeologists who find his Secret Temple Scroll in the current day. Although I don’t usually read religious stories and didn’t realize this was one until I saw that this is Book 2 of The Vatican Chronicles, once I started reading it, I continued, as it’s a good mystery. I liked it, thought it was written well and the characters were interesting.
January 16, 2023
I was hopeful that the second volume in this series would be better than the first. No such luck. The idea behind these two books is a good one but it is really poorly executed. There are plot holes big enough to march a Roman legion through, not to mention all the accumulated proof-reading mistakes. I really tried to like this but just wasn't able to. I wonder what the plans for the third book
are about. I can't decide whether the authors are pro or con the Catholic Church, Christianity, or Judaism. Makes my head hurt.
are about. I can't decide whether the authors are pro or con the Catholic Church, Christianity, or Judaism. Makes my head hurt.
July 21, 2022
Great Story Line
If nothing else, one of the primary points this book/these authors bring to light is the probability that at least one person was actually traveling with Jesus as a Scribe during the time of Jesus’s ministry and may have actually recorded everything Jesus said as well as everything that happened during those 3 years. And since there has – to date – been enough evidence to prove that Jesus WAS an historical figure, it calls into question why the so-called ‘gospels’ would be promoted by the Roman Catholic Church as being the first/only/true accounts of Jesus life and ministry, when it has been shown that they were not even accurate in many instances.
Additionally, it also seems more than obvious that they likely weren’t the only source of knowledge regarding Jesus, since the first of these writings wasn’t even penned until approximately 40 years AFTER these events took place. While the authors claim that it was 20 years afterwards, yet everything I’ve come across states that it was at least 40 years before even the first of the gospels was ‘penned.’ The only exception might have been the ‘Gospel of Q.’
In fact, the ‘Gospel of Q’ – which was allegedly discovered well before the ‘gospels’ were written, proves that there WAS a prior written record before the confusing mishmash of the so-called accounts recorded in the Bible. And then it further calls into question the validity of the entire so-called ‘New Testament’ as named and compiled by the Roman Catholic Church.
As for this book, itself, and in spite of the scathing commentary by one reviewer who claimed to be a writer herself and who proceeded to enumerate the numerous writing mistakes made by the authors, this 2nd book in the series was, for me, quite a bit easier to read since I wasn’t more often than not distracted by anachronistic references. Not to say that the authors were perfect in their delivery, but what writer is? I’m a writer myself and I understand how challenging it can be to write. So, in my opinion, the writing style, grammar and even the fewer instances of anachronisms in this second book, shows that the authors have likely grown as far as their writing ability is concerned. In my opinion, it’s the story line that’s most important.
Regarding the story line: I’ve never come across this particular story line before, and I read A LOT, especially in regard to the historicity and life and times of Jesus, although, now (as opposed to several decades ago), from sources OUTSIDE the New Testament. So, naturally, since I have an intense interest in both the validity of the existence of Jesus as well as what he actually may have said, this was a must-read, if for no other reason than that the probability that a scribe may have traveled with Jesus and wrote of his life and work was/is a unique (in my opinion) subject.
Definitely worth the read if you’re interested in this subject.
If nothing else, one of the primary points this book/these authors bring to light is the probability that at least one person was actually traveling with Jesus as a Scribe during the time of Jesus’s ministry and may have actually recorded everything Jesus said as well as everything that happened during those 3 years. And since there has – to date – been enough evidence to prove that Jesus WAS an historical figure, it calls into question why the so-called ‘gospels’ would be promoted by the Roman Catholic Church as being the first/only/true accounts of Jesus life and ministry, when it has been shown that they were not even accurate in many instances.
Additionally, it also seems more than obvious that they likely weren’t the only source of knowledge regarding Jesus, since the first of these writings wasn’t even penned until approximately 40 years AFTER these events took place. While the authors claim that it was 20 years afterwards, yet everything I’ve come across states that it was at least 40 years before even the first of the gospels was ‘penned.’ The only exception might have been the ‘Gospel of Q.’
In fact, the ‘Gospel of Q’ – which was allegedly discovered well before the ‘gospels’ were written, proves that there WAS a prior written record before the confusing mishmash of the so-called accounts recorded in the Bible. And then it further calls into question the validity of the entire so-called ‘New Testament’ as named and compiled by the Roman Catholic Church.
As for this book, itself, and in spite of the scathing commentary by one reviewer who claimed to be a writer herself and who proceeded to enumerate the numerous writing mistakes made by the authors, this 2nd book in the series was, for me, quite a bit easier to read since I wasn’t more often than not distracted by anachronistic references. Not to say that the authors were perfect in their delivery, but what writer is? I’m a writer myself and I understand how challenging it can be to write. So, in my opinion, the writing style, grammar and even the fewer instances of anachronisms in this second book, shows that the authors have likely grown as far as their writing ability is concerned. In my opinion, it’s the story line that’s most important.
Regarding the story line: I’ve never come across this particular story line before, and I read A LOT, especially in regard to the historicity and life and times of Jesus, although, now (as opposed to several decades ago), from sources OUTSIDE the New Testament. So, naturally, since I have an intense interest in both the validity of the existence of Jesus as well as what he actually may have said, this was a must-read, if for no other reason than that the probability that a scribe may have traveled with Jesus and wrote of his life and work was/is a unique (in my opinion) subject.
Definitely worth the read if you’re interested in this subject.
February 24, 2022
An enjoyable story which is split into two separate timelines. The tale of the anonymous scribe journeying with the first century disciples is well written and is the better of the two halves of the book. The present day section telling of the discovery of one of the scribe's scrolls is a political and archaeological thriller pitting academia against the Vatican - this section is faster paced but doesn't have the same free flowing style of the ancient story.
Overall this was an entertaining read that would appeal to fans of Dan Brown or anyone who enjoys a good story that is well told.
Although this is part two of a trilogy it is perfectly self contained and reads well as a stand alone novel
Overall this was an entertaining read that would appeal to fans of Dan Brown or anyone who enjoys a good story that is well told.
Although this is part two of a trilogy it is perfectly self contained and reads well as a stand alone novel
July 12, 2022
Anonymous Scribe is second in the Julia Episcopa mystery series and is as riveting as the first book. It follows a young scribe writing about Jesus of Nazareth. Sent to follow his teachings and the apostles and report back to the Pharisees the young scribe veers off this task as he comes to understand Jesus’s teachings and mission. His life remains dedicated to the new philosophy and as his scrolls are unearthed it rocks the Vatican hierarchy….a great archaeology story….when will third book arrive?
September 16, 2023
The second installment of The Vatican Chronicles, THE ANONYMOUS SCRIBE is an excellent follow-on to THE MYSTERY OF JULIA EPISCOPA. It continues the tale of Yeshua as told by his contemporary chronicler known first as Young Scribe, then simply as Scribe. The son of a Jewish family, trained in his craft at the Temple in Jerusalem, Scribe tells us, in his own words, of his gradual conversion to the ways of the Christian sect. His assignment, upon graduation from Temple training, is to collect paid testimony from those people who have heard Yeshua speak. He finds nothing in the teachings to be counter to religious law.
Once again, the archaeologists Valentina Vella and Erika Simone, disgraced in THE MYSTERY OF JULIA EPISCOPA by the machinations of the Roman Catholic Church, are caught up in international intrigue surrounding a rumored Secret Temple Scroll (STS).
Anyone with an interest in religious history will find the books in The Vatican Chronicles a compelling and thought-provoking treatise on the what ifs… what if there are written documents contemporary with the life of Yeshua? … what if the Gospels, written decades after the crucifixion, are not the oldest records of the life of Yeshua? … what if the teachings of Yeshua put women on an equal footing with men? Like Dan Brown's books featuring Robert Langdon, The Vatican Chronicles paint a picture of the Catholic church putting it on a par with any secular government. Crime and corruption are prominent at the highest levels of power because if they practiced the teachings, their church, their wealth, and their power would crumble.
Although THE ANONYMOUS SCRIBE, does not end on a cliffhanger, it is obvious that there is more to the story.
I would have preferred a tome rather than a series (trilogy?) to eliminate the need to repeat portions of one book in another, and to present the tale as a cohesive whole.
Once again, the archaeologists Valentina Vella and Erika Simone, disgraced in THE MYSTERY OF JULIA EPISCOPA by the machinations of the Roman Catholic Church, are caught up in international intrigue surrounding a rumored Secret Temple Scroll (STS).
Anyone with an interest in religious history will find the books in The Vatican Chronicles a compelling and thought-provoking treatise on the what ifs… what if there are written documents contemporary with the life of Yeshua? … what if the Gospels, written decades after the crucifixion, are not the oldest records of the life of Yeshua? … what if the teachings of Yeshua put women on an equal footing with men? Like Dan Brown's books featuring Robert Langdon, The Vatican Chronicles paint a picture of the Catholic church putting it on a par with any secular government. Crime and corruption are prominent at the highest levels of power because if they practiced the teachings, their church, their wealth, and their power would crumble.
Although THE ANONYMOUS SCRIBE, does not end on a cliffhanger, it is obvious that there is more to the story.
I would have preferred a tome rather than a series (trilogy?) to eliminate the need to repeat portions of one book in another, and to present the tale as a cohesive whole.
October 11, 2023
If you could go back in time, where and when would you go? One of my choices has always been to meet the leading religious figures of the past, to hear for myself what was really said, to see what really happened. The Anonymous Scribe, the middle book of The Vatican Chronical series, is an exploration of this concept.
In this episode we follow the life path of a young man identified as The Scribe, later as merely Scribe. His first job out of scribe school is to provide a written report on the words and actions of Yeshua, which the faith's higher-ups hope will discredit the wandering teacher. Instead, our scribe becomes a follower, and it is Yeshua himself who suggests that the young man accurately document events, to preserve the truth. These flashbacks are paired with modern-day scholars who learn of the existence of the Scribe's materials, and are determined to bring to the world genuine first-hand accounts of Jesus' life and works. They are opposed by conservative elements in the Church, who are equally determined to suppress anything that might undo the status quo. The scholars ultimately succeed..yay!...but leaves me wondering where Book 3 could possibly go.
Lastly, I'm not knocked out by the writing, which to me is a bit clunky and flat.
In this episode we follow the life path of a young man identified as The Scribe, later as merely Scribe. His first job out of scribe school is to provide a written report on the words and actions of Yeshua, which the faith's higher-ups hope will discredit the wandering teacher. Instead, our scribe becomes a follower, and it is Yeshua himself who suggests that the young man accurately document events, to preserve the truth. These flashbacks are paired with modern-day scholars who learn of the existence of the Scribe's materials, and are determined to bring to the world genuine first-hand accounts of Jesus' life and works. They are opposed by conservative elements in the Church, who are equally determined to suppress anything that might undo the status quo. The scholars ultimately succeed..yay!...but leaves me wondering where Book 3 could possibly go.
Lastly, I'm not knocked out by the writing, which to me is a bit clunky and flat.
March 15, 2023
FICTION
All the while I read this wonderful book and its equally wonderful predecessor I had to keep reminding myself that they are works of fiction. The brilliant writing gave full force to every emotion possible, so deeply you too will need to remember...."it's a FICTIONAL story". I could see all the sights, hear all the sounds, love all the good and despise all the bad because this is so perfectly written. Do I recommend this book? You bet your life I do!!! Frankly, I'm hoping for a third - real soon! Nothing in this story made me want to rethink my decision for Christ! It all strengthened my faith without being "preachy" or heavy handed. Anyone, Christian or not, will be able to enjoy a great read!!
All the while I read this wonderful book and its equally wonderful predecessor I had to keep reminding myself that they are works of fiction. The brilliant writing gave full force to every emotion possible, so deeply you too will need to remember...."it's a FICTIONAL story". I could see all the sights, hear all the sounds, love all the good and despise all the bad because this is so perfectly written. Do I recommend this book? You bet your life I do!!! Frankly, I'm hoping for a third - real soon! Nothing in this story made me want to rethink my decision for Christ! It all strengthened my faith without being "preachy" or heavy handed. Anyone, Christian or not, will be able to enjoy a great read!!
March 24, 2023
Fantastic
I've often wondered what Jesus was like as a child. This may not go back that far but to read what it might of been like to travel with him, to hear him speak, to see first hand the miracles he performed.. What a joy! This is beautifully written, the young scribe that grew up walking with Jesus. The young scribe who gave up everything he thought he wanted in order to leave a glimpse of Jesus. The scribe who knew the apostles, Mary Magdalene and probably Jesus's mother as well as his brothers and sisters. The scribe who till the end was more worried about Julia and her daughters than himself. Wonderful job. Thank you. Can't wait for Book 3.
P.S. I did thoroughly enjoy Book 1 and I loved the way some things were incorporated into Book 2.
I've often wondered what Jesus was like as a child. This may not go back that far but to read what it might of been like to travel with him, to hear him speak, to see first hand the miracles he performed.. What a joy! This is beautifully written, the young scribe that grew up walking with Jesus. The young scribe who gave up everything he thought he wanted in order to leave a glimpse of Jesus. The scribe who knew the apostles, Mary Magdalene and probably Jesus's mother as well as his brothers and sisters. The scribe who till the end was more worried about Julia and her daughters than himself. Wonderful job. Thank you. Can't wait for Book 3.
P.S. I did thoroughly enjoy Book 1 and I loved the way some things were incorporated into Book 2.
May 17, 2025
I got a lot less invested in the Intrepid Sleuths' archaeological skulduggery when we moved into territory that presumes the figure at the center of the lunatic belief system we call christianity was a living breathing human being.
There exists no shred of evidence of this. Inventing one for this story was a step past my personal suspension-of-disbelief line.
It is a testament to the writing chops of the authorial duo that I was compelled to keep reading, and that I give this story three whole stars. I am mightily opposed to everything this entry in the series is presenting, and irked by the certainty that some will think it's probable it represents some kind of truth. No matter; honesty insists that I rate it on its storytelling merits. Three stars.
There exists no shred of evidence of this. Inventing one for this story was a step past my personal suspension-of-disbelief line.
It is a testament to the writing chops of the authorial duo that I was compelled to keep reading, and that I give this story three whole stars. I am mightily opposed to everything this entry in the series is presenting, and irked by the certainty that some will think it's probable it represents some kind of truth. No matter; honesty insists that I rate it on its storytelling merits. Three stars.
July 6, 2025
Second book of the Vatican Chronicles. Follows a young Pharisee who, after finishing his learning as a scribe, is hired to take paid testimony against Yeshua (Jesus). But on his travels, the scribe learns that whatever these people say is not true. He turns toward Yeshua and transcribes His words for posterity. But the Vatican does not want these documents to come to light because after so many centuries they have twisted the words originally spoken by Jesus.
A riveting story of the time and of the figures so central to Christianity. Well written. A joy to read.
A riveting story of the time and of the figures so central to Christianity. Well written. A joy to read.
April 26, 2023
Ordinary! Another cristo-scroll pseudo saga with Vatican mafia et al. I was not able to emotionally get on board with any of the characters. I kept holding my breath for a wow moment that never came. While I realize the book was well researched, this is a theme that has been ultra saturated and unfortunately this work does not stand out for me. This tome does not compel me to read the other Vatican Chronicles' book(s).
June 9, 2023
Excellent read and most noteworthy of the telling of tales related to Yeshua
Books 1 and 2 do a marvelous job of bringing all the segments of society and weaving them together in the time of Romans, Nero , other King/conquerors and the beleaguered Jews .
The Author does a mighty task of bringing a story of humble lives, peaceful thoughts and deeds among the disgruntled segments of these early times.
Books 1 and 2 do a marvelous job of bringing all the segments of society and weaving them together in the time of Romans, Nero , other King/conquerors and the beleaguered Jews .
The Author does a mighty task of bringing a story of humble lives, peaceful thoughts and deeds among the disgruntled segments of these early times.
May 29, 2022
A good blend of fiction and history.
To me, this book earned my rating because of an interesting and believable blend of research, fact and fiction. I have been to Italy, the Vatican and Pompeii and these books of fiction/history took me back there.
What a great series of books and I look forward to the next story from these two authors.
Ron Johnson
To me, this book earned my rating because of an interesting and believable blend of research, fact and fiction. I have been to Italy, the Vatican and Pompeii and these books of fiction/history took me back there.
What a great series of books and I look forward to the next story from these two authors.
Ron Johnson
October 15, 2022
if only the real scrolls are found.
Wouldn’t it be interesting to find and read the original scrolls. I like the idea that the Scribe is never named, he could be AnyMan. This world have been five stars, but I found a couple of errors that an editor should have seen. Also, why was Mother Mary never addressed?
Wouldn’t it be interesting to find and read the original scrolls. I like the idea that the Scribe is never named, he could be AnyMan. This world have been five stars, but I found a couple of errors that an editor should have seen. Also, why was Mother Mary never addressed?
April 7, 2023
the other part of the Julia story
This has a slower pace than the Julia story. Scribe is less active. His recording of his master’s words are thoughtful and his recounting of their journeys is descriptive. The tussle between the archeologists and the church are sad; not surprising.
This has a slower pace than the Julia story. Scribe is less active. His recording of his master’s words are thoughtful and his recounting of their journeys is descriptive. The tussle between the archeologists and the church are sad; not surprising.
read-didn-t-finish
July 26, 2023I was hopeful with this book but I started to feel I trudged through similar to the last book. I love books that give alternative interpretations of scriptural events or even alternative views of theological doctrines that have been accepted for centuries. But I just couldn't get into the book enough after reading ~30% to want to continue.
May 9, 2022
Awesome
This is an amazing book. The life of Yeshua from the perspective of those who traveled with him as well as the modern day machinations of the church and mossad. Definately worth reading.
This is an amazing book. The life of Yeshua from the perspective of those who traveled with him as well as the modern day machinations of the church and mossad. Definately worth reading.
June 1, 2022
Anonymous scribe book 2
I totally enjoyed this book.The characters were very entertaining and exciting.I. Was hoping the name of the scribe would be revealed.I can't wait to read more from these amazing authors.
I totally enjoyed this book.The characters were very entertaining and exciting.I. Was hoping the name of the scribe would be revealed.I can't wait to read more from these amazing authors.
June 5, 2022
The Anonymous Scribe
The Anonymous Scribe was an excellent book telling of a young scribes life following Jesus and writing about the journey. It definitely makes me want to do some religious research!
The Anonymous Scribe was an excellent book telling of a young scribes life following Jesus and writing about the journey. It definitely makes me want to do some religious research!
July 1, 2022
great read
This was a fantastic read nomatter your religious beliefs. I loved the first book and the second brings it full circle. Thanks to these amazing authors for such a wonderful story!
This was a fantastic read nomatter your religious beliefs. I loved the first book and the second brings it full circle. Thanks to these amazing authors for such a wonderful story!
July 3, 2022
Wonderful
What a fantastic book, the second and unfortunately last in this duo. It is the story of a scribe who followed and recorded the story of Yeshua, and of the archeologists who found and deciphered the scrolls. Highly recommended.
What a fantastic book, the second and unfortunately last in this duo. It is the story of a scribe who followed and recorded the story of Yeshua, and of the archeologists who found and deciphered the scrolls. Highly recommended.
August 16, 2022
interesting plot and characters
Transition from first century Christian outcasts to present day Vatican plots with some treasure hunting to make the plot grab the reader with exciting possibilities.
Transition from first century Christian outcasts to present day Vatican plots with some treasure hunting to make the plot grab the reader with exciting possibilities.
September 27, 2022
A compelling read of historical fiction about the most important person in human history with that being in question until the end. The story is developed in the past and present as parallel events unfolded. I stopped what I was doing today just so I could find out how it ended.
January 18, 2023
excellent!
Enjoyed it very much. The historical comes alive more than the present day tale and it’s very interesting. I did not feel the drama and
Opposing issues with the modern day take as much as the story of the little scribe.
I recommend it.
Enjoyed it very much. The historical comes alive more than the present day tale and it’s very interesting. I did not feel the drama and
Opposing issues with the modern day take as much as the story of the little scribe.
I recommend it.
February 1, 2023
RIVETING non stop action, betrayal, and intrigue, who..., WHAT, wait!!!
Once again into the fray go our brilliant characters from Mossad, to the Vatican, to the not so minor players!!!
Once again into the fray go our brilliant characters from Mossad, to the Vatican, to the not so minor players!!!
April 9, 2023
Pretty interesting take on the "greatest story ever told" especially during Holy Week. Love the growth we see in Scribe not so crazy about the intent of the archeologist and secret keeping of the cardinal. The whole story could have just been the Scribe and not the present day.
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