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wayneg's review
adventurous
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
This is an apparently gospel noir…it’s fast paced and a good reimagining of the start of Christianity and the competing versions and characters, all within the wrap of a crime procedural. So it’s clever and a good read- although I was confused by this story playing out in a future where the disciples were already known…couldn’t quite square that circle…but this is a good read
jakewritesbooks's review
4.0
A fascinating book, in ways both good and not so good. It's gonna stick with me for awhile.
The premise is compelling: a Roman speculator, set in contemporary society, investigating the resurrection of Jesus and subsequent deaths of His twelve apostles. It's executed well for the most part and it has an interesting end. There are also some neat theological twists (I really like what Beard does with Paul).
But there were some issues. The structure of the book can be frustrating as the writer can start a chapter, then back up and do a scene that happened before the chapter began. This led to confusion until I understood it. There's also a lack of clarity in several encounters between the Speculator and the people he investigates. It's a bit too manic and maybe draws out the "mystery" too much.
Still, this is an ambitious endeavor and the ambition is mostly rewarded. If you're curious about it, I'd definitely check it out. You may like it or not like it but I doubt you'll feel like your time is wasted.
The premise is compelling: a Roman speculator, set in contemporary society, investigating the resurrection of Jesus and subsequent deaths of His twelve apostles. It's executed well for the most part and it has an interesting end. There are also some neat theological twists (I really like what Beard does with Paul).
But there were some issues. The structure of the book can be frustrating as the writer can start a chapter, then back up and do a scene that happened before the chapter began. This led to confusion until I understood it. There's also a lack of clarity in several encounters between the Speculator and the people he investigates. It's a bit too manic and maybe draws out the "mystery" too much.
Still, this is an ambitious endeavor and the ambition is mostly rewarded. If you're curious about it, I'd definitely check it out. You may like it or not like it but I doubt you'll feel like your time is wasted.
cindyp's review
5.0
In this highly original, artful novel the Passion of Christ is a contemporary event. Special investigator Gallio, based in Jerusalem, is convinced that the death and resurrection of Jesus was a carefully planned hoax. Now, years after the event, the 12 disciples are being gruesomely killed one by one. Gallio needs these witnesses to solve the case and find Jesus- and, it becomes clear, to save himself as well. Beard has created a daring mix of police procedural, biblical retelling and alt-history that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
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