Adonai, Remember Me

A debut novel that tells the story of the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of those around him. 

The tale of Jesus is known the world over, and whether you’re a believer, an admirer or a skeptic, you’re sure to know his story. This latest work to detail Jesus’ life opens in King Herod’s castle as the king considers the prophecy of the next Messiah, before he orders the killing of every male child in Bethlehem. As the work progresses, it runs parallel to the Gospels, but is told through the points of view of Jesus’ peers, friends and followers; Nicodemus and Caiaphas, for example, discuss Jesus’ growing influence. The story carries all the way through Jesus’ life, from his birth to his time in the temple, and finally, to the Crucifixion, adding new life to Bible stories along the way. Several of the main players of Jesus’ life, including Pontius Pilate, John the Baptist and Lazarus, are present in the text, adding validity and heft to the work. Lee uses imagination and historical research to flesh out his story, going so far as to include a bibliography of consulted works and a list of books for further reading. Some readers may find the actual Bible somewhat dry, and it’s not easy for some to get through; Lee paints a more enticing, more readable picture of what it was like to live in the time of Jesus, with vivid descriptions (“There had been unleavened bread dipped in sweet sauce, wine, and rice with leeks; there had been the music of pipe and lyre; there had been laughter and the singing of psalms”) and engaging dialogue. With this book, readers can watch Jesus Christ evolve in his teachings and practices, from his time as a young scholar in the temple to his martyrdom. It may encourage further reading of the original text by Christians seeking deeper meaning, or by newcomers hoping to learn more about Jesus Christ, the man. The original music in the back of the book, composed by Aran Lee, adds a lovely touch.

An example of Christian historical fiction at its finest.