The Advocate by Randy Singer

About the Book:  

At the trial of Christ, Theophilus, brilliant young assessore raised in the Roman aristocracy, stands behind Pontius Pilate and whispers, “Offer to release Barabbas.” The strategy backfires, and Theophilus never forgets the sight of an innocent man unjustly suffering the worst of all possible deaths—Roman crucifixion.

Three decades later, Theophilus has proven himself in the legal ranks of the Roman Empire. He has survived the insane rule of Caligula and has weathered the cruel tyrant’s quest to control the woman he loves. He has endured the mindless violence of the gladiator games and the backstabbing intrigue of the treason trials.

Now he must face another evil Caesar, defending the man Paul in Nero’s deranged court. Can Theophilus mount a defense that will keep another innocent man from execution?

The advocate’s first trial altered the course of history. His last will change the fate of an empire.

My Review: 

Wow, what an incredibly moving and impactful historical novel!

When I started this book, I was not one to read historical novels. Having ready some of Randy Singer's other books, I took a chance on this one. Quickly I was catapulted into the story and just completely captured by the storyline. Chronicling the life of Theophilus and his ups and downs, I found him to be such an authentic character with lots of depth--not that he was perfect--in fact, he was far from it. However, that is what sets the backdrop for Theophilus' interactions with Paul the apostle.

You might find that part-way through, you want to put the book down and not read any more because it is longer, but do yourself a favor and DON'T! This book made me think so much about what the early church went through. My problems as a Christian are nothing compared to what they went through--we need to be reminded of that. I must tell you there were no dry eyes on this girl after finishing the book--in fact, the tears were just streaming down my face as I sat reflecting. I know now why this book took Mr. Singer five years to craft--it is such an amazing story! Read it, you won't regret it!

Thank you to Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book--the opinions which I wrote are my own.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars