Step into the vibrant, turbulent world of the A.D. Chronicles, where first-century Jerusalem pulses with faith, love, and the promise of redemption! This captivating 12-novel series by Bodie and Brock Thoene, a dynamic husband-and-wife duo, blends Christian historical fiction with rich storytelling, immersing readers in a city teetering on the edge of momentous change. From blind beggars to Roman centurions, the series’ diverse characters navigate political intrigue and spiritual awakening, all while whispers of a healer named Yeshua spark hope and controversy.
With over 10 million books sold and eight ECPA Gold Medallion Awards, the Thoenes’ A.D. Chronicles invites you to experience the transformative power of faith in a world where every heart longs for salvation. Ready to journey back in time? Let’s explore this beloved series!
How A.D. Chronicles Began
Bodie and Brock Thoene, renowned for their meticulous research and heartfelt narratives, launched the A.D. Chronicles in 2003 with First Light. Inspired by their passion for biblical history and their successful Zion series, the couple sought to bring the New Testament era to life. Brock’s expertise in history and Bodie’s journalistic flair crafted a series that feels like stepping into ancient Jerusalem, with every detail—from dusty streets to temple rituals—vividly authentic. Their goal? To weave fictional tales around the life of Jesus, making his world accessible and relatable.
The series, a spin-off from their Zion Legacy novels, grew from the Thoenes’ desire to explore the human stories behind biblical events. Their collaborative process—Brock researching, Bodie writing—ensured historical accuracy and emotional depth, earning praise from readers and critics alike.
The Heart of A.D. Chronicles
The A.D. Chronicles unfolds across 12 books, each a tapestry of love, sacrifice, and faith. First Light (2003) introduces Peniel, a blind beggar yearning for healing, and lovers Susannah and Manaen, torn apart by Herod’s decrees. As they encounter Yeshua, their lives transform, setting the tone for the series’ blend of hope and hardship. Second Touch (2004) deepens the saga, following leper Lily and Rabbi Ahava, whose faith in the Messiah defies their isolation. Third Watch (2004) weaves a forbidden romance between Zahav, a Jewish woman, and Alexander, a Greek, against the backdrop of Jerusalem’s unrest. Fourth Dawn (2005) explores Mary of Nazareth’s divine encounter, heralding the Messiah’s birth.
Themes of redemption and resilience shine through, as characters grapple with oppression under Roman rule and spiritual darkness. The Thoenes’ immersive style paints Jerusalem as both holy and chaotic, with vivid settings like bustling markets and sacred temples. Fans praise the series for its ability to humanize biblical figures, making their struggles and triumphs feel personal and timeless.
The series’ Christian lens doesn’t shy away from gritty realities—persecution, betrayal, and sacrifice—but always points to hope. Whether it’s a centurion’s journey to faith or a beggar’s miraculous healing, each story reflects the transformative impact of encountering Yeshua, inviting readers to reflect on their own beliefs.
Why A.D. Chronicles Resonates
The A.D. Chronicles has left a lasting mark on Christian historical fiction, blending rigorous research with emotional storytelling. Its fans, from casual readers to devout believers, cherish its ability to bring scripture to life, making ancient Jerusalem feel as real as today’s world. The series’ universal themes—love, faith, and the search for purpose—resonate across generations, while its awards, including the 2004 Logos Bookstore Award for First Light, underscore its literary impact.
By focusing on everyday people alongside biblical figures, the Thoenes created a series that feels inclusive and inspiring. Its enduring appeal lies in its invitation to explore faith through the lens of history, offering both entertainment and spiritual reflection.
- Publication Years: 2003–2011
- Number of Books: 12
- Awards: 2004 Logos Bookstore Award for First Light
- Authors: Bodie and Brock Thoene
Grab First Light and dive into the A.D. Chronicles’ world of faith and adventure! Whether you’re a history buff or a seeker of inspiring stories, this series will sweep you away to a time when hope changed everything.