BRUECKE TO HEAVEN

A historical novel about the spread of Christianity leading up to the Reformation.

The author builds an accessible, intriguing narrative—using the often complicated verses of the New Testament—that chronicles the beginning of the spread of Christianity. Tron’s version presupposes that Jesus chose not 12 disciples, as commonly referenced, but six times that, and he “empowered them with the same abilities and gifts as the original twelve.” Set in the mountains in what is now Western Europe, the tale follows a group of disciples led by protagonists Arktos, Jean Paul and Jakob as they seek their comrades, men that they meet along the way who may have no idea that they have been chosen by Jesus to help spread the religion and “to return to Lyon…to begin the transcription of the Bible into written format for its distribution to the common man.” These disciples, not unlike the parallel search in Buddhism for reincarnated leaders, are identified by intangible but recognizable signs: They shine forth an inner light, command tremendous strength of spirit and can recite verses from the Bible on command. Their path is filled with violence and swords, whether drawn or at rest. Dark scenes of warfare, blood and capital punishment contrast with luminous religious scenes, e.g., “As darkness grew across the land, the light would continue to shine in the darkness.” Tron also builds tension and interest through dynamic dialogue and colorful description: “There would be no sun today. A thick, overcast sky blanketed the upper peaks of the surrounding mountains enclosing the Vaudois below.”

An artful, dramatic download of biblical events that inspire faith and a deeper understanding of the history of Christianity.