This series can be summed up in 2 words: SO good. It's set (mostly) in Rome during the time closely following the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The series follows 4 main characters - Hadassah, Marcus, Julia, and Atretes. Hadassah is a Christian house slave who is sure of her faith yet timid in sharing it. Her masters include Julia, a self-centered, insecure young lady who tries to find acceptance and peace by doing everything Rome tells her will help her achieve it, and Marcus, a wealthy, handsome Roman who wants nothing to do with Jesus. Through Hadassah's uncompromising morals and service, she influences everyone in her master's house...and beyond.
As a substory (and the basis for the third book) is the life of Atretes. He is a Germanic warrior who is captured by Rome and forced to become a gladiator in the arena. Through his innate will to survive and extensive hatred of Rome, Atretes becomes the greatest, most revered gladiator in Rome. His connections to Julia and Hadassah fuel the storyline for the third book in which he tries to return to his homelands in Germania.
I've never fully comprehended the full extent of how dangerous and life-threatening it was to be a Christan in biblical times. I've also completely underestimated the amount of depravity and horror that infected Rome and Ephesus. In truth, it sounds a lot like America today. Homosexuality, pleasure, gore, deception, and revenge ruled the time period. The books clearly illustrate that the power, mercy, and grace of God are the only things that can save a decaying world. And it can all start with one person. To say I recommend this series is an understatement. I'm thinking about requiring all of my friends to read it.
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