A compelling slice of ancient Roman life and the story of Marcus, a stonemason and sculptor who must flee Rome during the brutal regime of Emperor Valerian in AD 258. All Marcus had ever wanted was to work alongside his father in their stone business. But after the Roman authorities seize Marcus's parents-who, without his knowledge, had become Christians-Marcus loses his livelihood and any hope of survival in the place he'd always called home. He begins a new life in Luna and its surrounding marble quarries. He marries Julia, has two sons, and builds a successful marble business. When Julia becomes a Christian, Marcus-wanting nothing to do with the controversial sect-is upset. But through Julia's love and influence, Marcus becomes a believer too. One son joins the family business, and another becomes a soldier, but when Emperor Diocletian begins persecuting Christians, Marcus's family is torn apart. Julia flees, and tragedy strikes. Things come to a head with the rise of Constantine and the historic Battle of the Milvian Bridge in AD 313. Dive into this meticulously researched look at the strength and sacrifice of early Christians as they fight the tyranny of despotic rule and seek tolerance for a faith that changed the world.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.