Pericope: a novel of an adultress

by Jeff Keene

Pericope had reclined in this third story window every evening for the last week basking in the warm rays of the setting sun. Each time, the view teased at her lofty dreams to escape her reality. Much had taken place to lead her to this bedchamber. A bedchamber not her own. She closed her eyes and breathed in the Holy Temple's splendor. Brilliant light shining in every direction from its gilded spires emanated a unique glow fueling her hopes. The golden structure gleamed in the setting sun's rays. It reinforced her understanding of why the Jews sincerely believed their god dwelled within the temple's walls of stone. She tore her gaze from that hallowed place. Guilt gnawed within her. Self-loathing banished her moment of peace. She knew what she was in the eyes of the law and in the eyes of God. She was an adultress.

408 pages, Hardcover

First published March 2, 2022

Reviews

[Donna Mumma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written, well-researched book centering on the woman whose circumstances teach one of the most valuable lessons in the Bible. Jeff Keene has brought her to life, making the reader empathize with her, understand her motivations and sympathize with her situation while still being cognizant of the consequences of her choices. This is a story that pulls you in with a mix of characters you will care about, intrigue, villains and heroes, seasoned with historical facts that help to bring it all to life. His villains hit just the right beat, are genuine and worthy of our hopes that they will earn their just rewards. The ending was satisfying and filled with a great reminder of the power of redemption, hope and love.
A really fantastic book, and I highly recommend it!

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pericope, eighteen-year-old, perfumery worker in the first century Jerusalem. She is brought before Jesus for committing adultery. (John 8:2-11)

This book took me to the time when Jesus walked the earth. It's very evident the author did a lot of research in writing this book. It felt as though I were there.

As the description says, Pericope is a strong-willed, has a wonderful sense of humor, and is hard working. She's the perfect friend. Not everyone believes that, so heightens the tension. As a reader, I came to care about Pericope and those affiliated with her. The pages kept turning as I was curious as to what would happen next.

The Bible came alive within the pages of this book. Although this is fiction, I'll never look at the passage in John the same again. I highly recommend this book to any serious student of the Bible or anyone who wants their life changed.

Pericope's meeting with the master changed her life. The readers received a front-row view. I loved it and look forward to more stories in this series by Jeff.

[Andria Keene · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a unique insight into a New Testament Bible character. Keene gives an unnamed woman who meets Jesus a name and a story full of adventure and romance. Witness first century history come alive as Pericope, a 17 year old perfume worker in Roman-occupied Jerusalem, overcome corrupt leaders, vengeful blood thirsty aristocrats, and the doubt she has in her heart. I look forward to Keene's next book.

[Amarilys Rassler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right from the start Pericope took me into a journey in an ancient world where danger and suspense kept me turning the page. The protagonist, Pericope, is a beautiful woman, abused and unloved. It was easy to want to read about her, to feel for her and to admire her, to root for her from start to end. The book is beautifully accentuated with descriptions of life in Jesus’s times. The settings, customs of that era, religious practices of a fascinating group called Essenes, and the information of the businesses and practices of perfumery made this reader feel like she was there. A great deal of research is evident in this writing. It makes the story rich and flavorable like a delicious dessert! Pericope, the book, leaves its mark also by its thought provoking themes of God’s love, forgiveness and grace, the loyalty of true friendship and the power of prayer. It moves the heart to want to be closer to the Savior. Pericope is a book full of adventure and action, high stakes, and questions that at the end have satisfying answers. An unforgettable book that entertains and uplifts while stirring emotions and strengthening faith. A wonderful read.

[Jeannie Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeff Keene crafted an intriguing story based on the woman in the Bible who escaped stoning although accused of adultery. He named her Pericope and developed her into a believable character. The author's obviously extensive research into the geography and customs of the time enriched the scenes and made me feel like I was a witness to the action. I highly recommend this adventure-filled novel, filled with twists and turns that actually made me gasp as some points.

[Michael R. Insabella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, and well told inspiring story

The author's attention to detail, language, history, geography and the bible are evident throughout this beautifully written book.

I couldn't put it down....

It chronicles one woman's struggle in a hostile ancient world to find faith and hope in Jesus.

Well done Mr. Keene.

[Lane Burday · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love how well the author wrote about the real happenings of the Bible. I felt the book way too long and jumbled: the characters were too many with difficult names and I had a hard time keeping up with them or remembering who they were. There was a lot of going this way then going that way.

[J Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keene takes the lead by telling the Bible historical information into a life story section. You will learn much about the actually locations and situations endured. I have travelled and was walking anew in the places they went running for their lives, in hope of a future was the only goal.

J. Patrick Hartman