The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem by Kurt Brouwer is an ambitious work of Christian historical fiction, outlining the years after the crucifixion and resurrection, as John is tasked with protecting Mary and spreading the good word, opening himself up to danger from the Roman legions and violent power struggles in Jerusalem. Drawing inspiration from the Bible and other religious texts, the novel opens with the violent execution of James and its consequences on Jesus’ followers in Jerusalem, and the rest of the novel follows suit – vivid in its historical detail, and breathing a whole new life into biblical figures such as John, Bartholomew, Emmaus, Rachel, and Deborah. With Brouwer’s rich, captivating prose, the novel deftly fuses together a blend of real history and fictional world-building that is recommended for both believers and avid readers of historical fiction.
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