The Centurion's Wife

It is funny how this book came into my hands. I was collecting a bunch of Janette Oke novels, ordering them in used book lots, and some of them I received were written in collaboration with Davis Bunn. I had never heard of this author, but I have truly enjoyed his Christian novels. The Centurion's Wife in particular really struck a cord with me.

The novel centers around the two main characters of Alban and Leah. You read their lives in separate accounts for the first half, discovering that they are both searching for peace and answers. Alban, a Roman centurion, is commissioned by Pontius Pilate to discover the truth of the events following Christ's death. Leah is a servant in Pilate's household and is sent by Pilate's wife to find similar answers. Alban and Leah are arranged to be married by Pilate, Alban looking forward with eagerness and Leah with dread.

The research brought into this novel is captivating. You truly feel as if you are walking the earth at the time of Christ. The political turmoil, the greed of many leaders, the awe and confusion of those who are searching for the truth about Christ, all make you realize what people at that time must have felt. It brought alive how truly powerful the Resurrection is and was, and what that would mean to someone hearing it first hand at the time.

With dynamic and interesting characters, this novel connects you with Alban and Leah, having you desire a happy end between the two as much as if you were there. I recommend this story for anyone looking for a light, faith-filled, historical, and romantic read. On to the sequel, The Hidden Flame!