The Thief by Stephanie Landsem

This is a very interesting book from a different angle than most.  I like this biblical fiction story because it puts you into the mindset of those who crucified Jesus. When you read the Bible, it's hard to look at the people in the stories and say, "How can they not believe." However, this book sheds light on the life of the Gentiles and the Jews. It reminds the readers about what they have been taught and what their picture of the Messiah would be.

Nissa is a Jewish woman that strongly believes that God has abandoned her, after a rough life.  She has the responsibility of taking care of her brother Cedron, who is blind. She has to rely on others to help provide their needs.  But then Cedron is healed.  Thinking life would suddenly be a lot better, it gets worse.

It was fascinating to read about how the people were so divided against each other.  One group wasn't Roman enough, another Jewish enough, etc.  Then to see how Jesus brought those sides together only with the reason that they hated Him.

Knowing how the story ends, I was prepared to be sad.  The crucifixion of Jesus is never and should never be an easy thing to read.  I found this to be such a good book to read right before the start of Lent. 

This is the second book in the Living Water series.

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I received this book free from Howard Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.