The Thief by Stephanie Landsem, Book review

• Series: The Living Water Series
• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Howard Books (February 25, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-1451689105

SYNOPSIS:

A Roman centurion longing for peace and a Jewish woman hiding a deadly secret witness a miracle that transforms their lives and leads them to the foot of the cross.

Longinus is a Roman centurion haunted by death and failure. Desperate to escape the accursed Judean province, he accepts a wager. If he can catch the thieves harassing the marketplace before Passover, he'll earn a transfer away from the troublemaking Jews.

Nissa is a Jewish woman with a sharp tongue and no hope of marriage. Only with the help of Mouse, the best thief in Jerusalem, can she keep her blind brother, Cedron, fed and a roof over their heads.

When a controversial teacher miraculously heals Cedron, Longinus longs to learn more about the mysterious healer. Instead, his journey leads him to Nissa, whose secret will determine the course of both their futures.

Unexpectedly caught up in the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus, they wonder who this teacher is who heals others but does nothing to save himself. Is the mercy he offers in his teachings real, or just another false promise? Can Nissa and Longinus overcome their pasts to find a future free of their shackles?

The Thief is an evocative story of two people trapped in their circumstances and the life-changing power of forgiveness and love.

My Thoughts:


The compelling journey of a handful of people in Judea at a time when ruthless Rome ruled the land, the temple priests bickered within themselves and a gentle prophet healed the sick in the name of His father unfolds in The Thief.

The sheer concept of Biblical life coming to light under Stephanie Landsem's pen is a powerful draw to 'The Living Water series' of which The Thief is book #2. 

Like pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem, we thirst to know more about this pivotal time in history and faith. What continues to surprise is how much there is still to uncover and in her latest novel, Stephanie Landsem brings us a flawless story coupled with historical events unmitigated for this Lent season!

Outcasts from society, Nissa and her young brother Cedron, survive only by their wits. Described as plain and with a caustic tongue, Nissa turns all suitors away, caring instead for her blind brother with the curious help of a young pickpocket named 'Mouse'.
Nissa however has a secret and she fears discovery from Roman Centurion Longinus who finds himself strangely attracted to the young woman. 

There are rumours going around of a Messiah coming to deliver the Jews and much unrest in the population.

Meanwhile hating his appointed mission of discovering the identity of the busy market crafty thief, Longinus enters in a wager in hope to see himself posted elsewhere: his prized sword for the thief.

But when Nissa's brother is healed by the gentle teacher called Jesus, we discover Cedron is none other than the blind man on whose eyes Jesus rubbed mud and to whom he says: 'Now go wash in the pool of Siloam.'

Just when you think you might know where this tale of love, deception and compassion leads, Stephanie Landsem surprises readers again with this page turner!

5 Stars for a great plot!

Note: Suitable for teens and mature readers.

Landing page: 

http://litfusegroup.com/author/slandsem

Meet the Author:

Stephanie Landsem loves adventure in far-off times and places. In real life, she's explored ancient ruins, medieval castles, and majestic cathedrals around the world. Stephanie is equally happy at home with her husband, four children, and three fat cats.

When she's not writing, she's feeding the ravenous horde, avoiding housework, and dreaming about her next adventure---whether it be in person or on the page.


Visit her website (HERE)

(Source John 9: 2-39)

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of LITFUSE as part of this book promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.