Israel, 30 A.D. The country is in turmoil. Conquered by an outside power, governed by a puppet king, taken advantage of by a corrupt high priest, the Jewish people long for redemption. And when a mysterious carpenter with a dark past performs a few healings, he is instantly proclaimed the Messiah. But he doesn't want the job. He "understands God no better than an ant understands Torah," but certain of his followers can't let go. They keep pushing him, despite his protests, until it all comes to a tragic end. Here's what readers are saying: "The atmosphere is incredible. You are right there." "A goldmine for those who glory in exposing historical inaccuracies." "A fitting book for atheists, agnostics, fall-away Catholics, Zen Buddhists, and the 'spiritual but not religious, ' but not for a serious Christian." "I've been a practicing Catholic for 78 years, and I loved this book." "He claims blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is a grave sin, and then he proceeds to commit it." "Sacrilegious." "A profoundly spiritual experience." "I've read John's description of the crucifixion 40 times." "I was moved by the chapter where a roomful of disciples 'enter the kingdom.'" "John the Baptist is hilarious . . . I loved the cameo appearance of St. Paul . . . The apostle John is half St. Francis of Assisi and half trailer park trash . . . My favorite character is Peter . . . Andrew . . . Philip . . . Bartholomew . . . Judas . . . Zenobia . . . Mary Magdalene . . . Simon the Zealot . . . James, James, and Jimmy. . . Matthew's donkey . . . Jesus. Of course, Jesus." "A great book." "I never wanted it to end."