Magda’s story draws on well-known biblical characters, including Peter and Paul—two men who led the charge for spreading the gospel after Jesus’s death, but who, according to Magda, conveniently neglected to mention women’s contributions to that history. Werner (author of The Good at Heart) pens an immersive story of the men and women who followed and loved Yeshua, all through the realistic perspective of a woman who viewed Yeshua as a human, flawed man with miraculous gifts. Magda interlaces this emotionally charged narrative with love, humanity, and religion, reflecting on Yeshua’s days in Caphernaum and Jerusalem and his time spent with disciples who "weren't all men.” As she shares insights on Yeshua’s female followers—herself, Shoshanna, Yohanna, and Ilana—she also highlights Yeshua's true message of "radical equality and radical tolerance."

Werner capably builds tension and suspense as Magda reflects on Yeshua’s life—and her own destiny alongside him, including becoming his wife—using this familiar story to expose the “truth” of the Messiah—and his ultimate sacrifice for mankind. Throughout, Yeshua is painted in shades of unconditional love and peace, as Magda, and his other followers, join efforts to spread his message—and Magda seeks a balance between her very human love for Yeshua and the greater purpose surrounding them. Fans of historical retellings will be captivated.

Takeaway: Fresh take on the story of Jesus, from Mary Magdalene’s perspective.

Comparable Titles: C.A. Gray's Messiah, Jill Eileen Smith’s Dawn of Grace.

Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A