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146th out of 1,929 books
—
2,593 voters
33 A.D. (Bachiyr #1)
by
David McAfee (Goodreads Author)
Jerusalem, 33 A.D. The vampires of the era have long sought to gain a foothold into Israel, but the faith of the local Jewish population has held them in check for centuries.
When one of their own betrays them to follow a young rabbi from Galilee, the elders of the vampire race send Theron, a nine hundred year old assassin, to kill them both.
The rabbi's name is Jesus. Kil...more
When one of their own betrays them to follow a young rabbi from Galilee, the elders of the vampire race send Theron, a nine hundred year old assassin, to kill them both.
The rabbi's name is Jesus. Kil...more
Paperback, 276 pages
Published
March 29th 2010
by Coelacanth Press
(first published March 2010)
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FINALLY, a vampire story that doesn’t wussyfoot around with easily vanquished opposition. Oh no, here we get...FANG-BANGERS vs JESUS…in a steel-caged death match for all the marbles.
Now put the brakes on before you go conclusion-jumping that this is either “Christian” fiction or “anti-Christian” mockery. I don’t think it's either which is one of the things I found so intriguing about McAfee's writing. While there are some (DUH?) religious elements + JC in a supporting role, I think the story is...more
Now put the brakes on before you go conclusion-jumping that this is either “Christian” fiction or “anti-Christian” mockery. I don’t think it's either which is one of the things I found so intriguing about McAfee's writing. While there are some (DUH?) religious elements + JC in a supporting role, I think the story is...more
43 likes · like · see review
view all 6 comments
#1, Vampire conversion. No I don't mean humans converting into vamps after bloodsucking, I mean vamps seeing Jesus and converting to Christianity. Okay then.
#2, People with strong faith glow. Oh wait, it's only CHRISTIAN faith that glows. Presumably, if you only have pantheistic faith, or whatever, you don't get the glow. After the crucifixion of Jesus, the whole damn nation started glowing with faith in Jesus (completely ignoring the fact that Christianity remained a fringe group among the Jew...more
#2, People with strong faith glow. Oh wait, it's only CHRISTIAN faith that glows. Presumably, if you only have pantheistic faith, or whatever, you don't get the glow. After the crucifixion of Jesus, the whole damn nation started glowing with faith in Jesus (completely ignoring the fact that Christianity remained a fringe group among the Jew...more
39 likes · like · see review
This was a very interesting take on the crucifixion of Jesus. The author weaved a fascinating conspiracy story involving vampires and roman soldiers into a well known biblical tale. The characters were well developed and despite the actions of Taras, a Legionary assassin, I found myself pulling for him to have a happy ending. Great storytelling, supporting players, and settings, beautifully descriptive. The only negative thing I can say about this book is that occasionally the dialog slipped int...more
Jan 09, 2011
Izzy
rated it
5 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
anyone who likes a good vampire read
Recommended to Izzy by:
Quasi Official Book Game sem
David McAfee took the standard vampire idea and made it his own. It was a great book to read and didn't bore me at all. It was amazing to see how the characters all mixed together by the end. The history and bible references just made the story seem all the more real. I hope he releases a sequel to this book so we can see the characters again.
Overall it was an enthralling read and i would recommend it to anyone who likes the original Dracula and the not so sparkly vampires.
Overall it was an enthralling read and i would recommend it to anyone who likes the original Dracula and the not so sparkly vampires.
Interesting premise but the story itself just falls a bit flat. There is a lot of stuff going on in the plot, probably a bit too much actually. Every character in the book has some sort of "plan" (the word "plan" is actually in the book 60 some times; you know a word comes up too many times when you actually stop reading and use your search function on your nook to count the offending word or phrase!),eventually everyone's plans start getting mixed up and before you know it ***SPOILER ALERT ***...more
I really enjoyed learning more about the times. The whole vampire concept in Biblical era is fascinating. Characters were great, the plot just clipped along, could not put it down!
Back when I was younger, vampires were my thing. I loved the mysteriousness, the immortality, the knowledge that these creatures have been around for centuries and have lived through so many historical events. I reveled in the horror and the brutality of what they were and the plight of their victims in their deaths or possibly their introduction to the world of vampirism. And, yes, I even loved the occasional romanticism that comes with the vampire genre when done well and in a "believable" fas...more
1 like · like · see review
Let me preface this with the following: I am not into vampire novels. The genre does absolutely nothing for me. This particular book caught my attention when I saw the cover and the title. The description sold it. Vampires trying to assassinate Jesus – brilliant idea!!
I was not disappointed.
It’s written by indie sensation, David McAfee. If you haven’t heard of his name, you will, because this man knows how to write a thrilling story and grab a reader’s attention.
I could NOT put this book down.
Th...more
I was not disappointed.
It’s written by indie sensation, David McAfee. If you haven’t heard of his name, you will, because this man knows how to write a thrilling story and grab a reader’s attention.
I could NOT put this book down.
Th...more
4 likes · like · see review
I'm a little disappointed with this book as it was a part of a best of horror list and my expectations were high. Definitely a decent read, story was very interesting, and I did enjoy, but would not be part of a best of horror list for me. Just my opinion.
1 like · like · see review
Ah, yes. Another Bookbub free novel. This one was better than most, in that it seemed to be professionally edited and polished like an actual published work of fiction. It was an odd read, though. The story has a great hook: What if the execution of Jesus was all just a vampire plot to gain control of Israel. Promising, right?
It doesn't deliver on that promise. It meanders a bit too much, takes a few too many inexplicable twists, and at one point it lays the Jesus-y bit on so thick that the read...more
It doesn't deliver on that promise. It meanders a bit too much, takes a few too many inexplicable twists, and at one point it lays the Jesus-y bit on so thick that the read...more
*** 3.5 Review ***
When I was slightly younger than I am now (and by slightly I mean at least 20 years) I used to babysit for this little boy named George. Now George, he’s a rather plain individual. Only wears white socks. Goes to bed at exactly 9pm every night. Is an Eagle Scout. Obviously…this little antidote is not about him, instead it’s about his mother. Her name was Karen and she had this crazy way of looking at life. See, she was an artist. Ok, that’s not exactly accurate, she was technic...more
When I was slightly younger than I am now (and by slightly I mean at least 20 years) I used to babysit for this little boy named George. Now George, he’s a rather plain individual. Only wears white socks. Goes to bed at exactly 9pm every night. Is an Eagle Scout. Obviously…this little antidote is not about him, instead it’s about his mother. Her name was Karen and she had this crazy way of looking at life. See, she was an artist. Ok, that’s not exactly accurate, she was technic...more
For me the biggest flaw in this book is that not a single character is likeable. In fact the author seems to go to great length to make even the minor side characters as unlikeable as possible.
Even Jesus - in the two scenes that he actually appears in - is not exactly nice. I mean - seriously - Jesus! At least he should come across as a good guy...
What bugs me about this is that I can't see a plot or even style reason for this.
The author just seems to enjoy having a cast of hateable bastards.
The...more
Even Jesus - in the two scenes that he actually appears in - is not exactly nice. I mean - seriously - Jesus! At least he should come across as a good guy...
What bugs me about this is that I can't see a plot or even style reason for this.
The author just seems to enjoy having a cast of hateable bastards.
The...more
Wow! This is such a cool story. Vampires on the backdrop of Jesus' crucifixion! It's very neat how David McAfee weaves together this story that's taking place behind the scenes of the crucifixion story. The twists and turns carry you along, and you don't want to put the book down! I finished it in just a couple days -- I used text-to-speech while I drove and read pretty much any spare moment I had. It's an addicting read! McAfee has a whole host of characters and they all have their own agendas....more
This is a departure from my usual historical fiction fix. Being an atheist who doesn't doubt the existence of Jesus but does not follow the propaganda, it was hugely exciting to read a story containing some historical superstars.
The story itself is gripping and really pulls you in. McAfee gives you enough detail to paint a great picture that your imagination can work with. I found it easy to visualise the scene. Theron the vampire enforcer, a troubleshooter of the undead, on a mission to destroy...more
The story itself is gripping and really pulls you in. McAfee gives you enough detail to paint a great picture that your imagination can work with. I found it easy to visualise the scene. Theron the vampire enforcer, a troubleshooter of the undead, on a mission to destroy...more
I really enjoyed this book. While the premise was a bit outlandish, the reviews on B&N were excellent. I went ahead and found myself immersed in an area of the world with so much historical value no matter who you are or what your beliefs. I FELT like I knew what it was like to be back there.
In addition the author moves perfectly from one first person's thoughts in one part to another in another part and never does it seem anything is pushed down our throats re what if any religion is the...more
Oct 17, 2010
Sarah L. Covert
rated it
4 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
to anyone who likes (real) vampires, horror, historical fiction, or dark romance
Shelves:
she-never-slept
When I received David‘s book in the mail I was a little leery. I assumed it would be: a) A book about Jesus being part of an undead tribe. -or- b)Another set of twinkly, soft, romanticized vamps. You see , I never read reviews or descriptions of a book until after I have read the book. This is mainly because I do not want to accidentally catch a spoiler. When I started to read the book, I was pleased to discover it was neither of the things I expected. [Don't worry, I keep my reviews spoiler fre...more
While not a big horror reader I am an avid reader of vampires...at least the non-angsty type. I decided to purchase 33A.D. for three very good reasons. The author made thought provoking comments about the book on a forum, the cover, and finally...
the concept. Jesus and vampires, c'mon now who could pass that up?
It's been a long while since I read anything that grabbed me literally from the very start of the book but this one did. Every concept, every plot twist or turn made it seem conceivable...more
the concept. Jesus and vampires, c'mon now who could pass that up?
It's been a long while since I read anything that grabbed me literally from the very start of the book but this one did. Every concept, every plot twist or turn made it seem conceivable...more
If one were to take the story of the crucifixion and combine it with vampires, you would most likely get one of the most clichéd stories imaginable. I’ve read quite a few tales regarding this very setup – all in short story format, mind you – and they all were variations on a few different plots. Either Jesus himself is a vampire, hence his rising from the dead, or he becomes Jesus Christ Action Star, staking those pesky vamps left and right. These are unimaginative stories. They either don’t do...more
When compared to other vampire stories out there, 33 A.D. carves its own niche. Mr. McAfee risked a dangerous road with a story that revolves around someone sent to kill Jesus. He handled this tricky endeavor well because the mission isn't the actual plot, which focuses on the assassin, Theron.
Even with vampires roaming around, the story has a very realistic feel to it and the characters have a depth to them that draws you in; You feel the emotions that motivate Ephraim, Taras, and Theron as the...more
Even with vampires roaming around, the story has a very realistic feel to it and the characters have a depth to them that draws you in; You feel the emotions that motivate Ephraim, Taras, and Theron as the...more
Lots of blood. And lots of vampires. And one legendary figure at the crux of his life. What's not to like?
Theron, the Lead Enforcer for the vampire head council loves his job. He gets to hunt and kill and feast as he pleases. What more could an undead hit-man want? Until one vampire breaks away from the pack to follow this upstart preacher named Jesus. Yes, that Jesus. But nobody annoys the vampire council and gets away with it, and Theron's sent to eliminate Jesus.
Except there's this Roman of...more
Theron, the Lead Enforcer for the vampire head council loves his job. He gets to hunt and kill and feast as he pleases. What more could an undead hit-man want? Until one vampire breaks away from the pack to follow this upstart preacher named Jesus. Yes, that Jesus. But nobody annoys the vampire council and gets away with it, and Theron's sent to eliminate Jesus.
Except there's this Roman of...more
3 likes · like · see review
Jesus and vampires! When I picked up this book and saw that bit, I knew this would either be the most awesome read ever, or the greatest let down. Happily, it was a fun read, though not the epic awesomeness that I had wanted. The book did drag a bit here and there, but I'm noticing a lot of books do that lately. So, I can't really complain.
This is a story told by either the POV of the vampires or the Romans during the last day or two of Christ's life. Jesus actually isn't a main character, and o...more
This is a story told by either the POV of the vampires or the Romans during the last day or two of Christ's life. Jesus actually isn't a main character, and o...more
*Giveaway Bonus*
If you enjoy the review below and would like the opportunity to win a signed, print copy of 33 A.D., all you have to do is comment at Reader's Den by March 3rd, 2012 (http://www.readers-den.com/2012/02/33...).
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When former Enforcer Ephraim breaks the laws of his people to follow another, the Council sends Theron after him - not only to kill Ephraim, since the Bachyir don't believe in mercy when it comes to betrayals, but to figure out who could have made an...more
If you enjoy the review below and would like the opportunity to win a signed, print copy of 33 A.D., all you have to do is comment at Reader's Den by March 3rd, 2012 (http://www.readers-den.com/2012/02/33...).
************************
When former Enforcer Ephraim breaks the laws of his people to follow another, the Council sends Theron after him - not only to kill Ephraim, since the Bachyir don't believe in mercy when it comes to betrayals, but to figure out who could have made an...more
This didn't work for me at all. It was a really good idea - a vampire conspiracy is what caused Jesus' death because they fear his power. But the problems outweighed the uniqueness of the plot.
Vampires can't attack, feed on, or be close to someone that believes in the god of the Jews. Jesus is dangerous to them because he is spreading belief in the Jewish god and therefore reducing the number of potential meals available in Israel. It's stated several times that they want the Roman (polytheistic...more
Vampires can't attack, feed on, or be close to someone that believes in the god of the Jews. Jesus is dangerous to them because he is spreading belief in the Jewish god and therefore reducing the number of potential meals available in Israel. It's stated several times that they want the Roman (polytheistic...more
I found this available for free for the Kindle through Amazon so I downloaded it on a whim, expecting to laugh a bit at how poorly it was done. The snippets that I suppose would reside on the book jacket, if an e-book had such a thing, made me think it was about vampires trying to kill Jesus. Laughable, right?
Well, yeah, I guess it would be if that's what it were really about, but ...
okay I guess I should say this: there's the story of Jesus and his crucifixion and this book puts a tale in and a...more
Well, yeah, I guess it would be if that's what it were really about, but ...
okay I guess I should say this: there's the story of Jesus and his crucifixion and this book puts a tale in and a...more
Theron, an elder vampire who works for the leaders of his kind as an assassin, is sent on a mission to find out why one of their own has betrayed them. It’s been said that Ephraim has turned from his vampire brethren to seek salvation. Theron investigates and discovers that a human was behind Ephraim’s abandonment of his vampiric nature. Upon reporting back to the vampire leaders, Theron is charged with the mission of destroying – as painfully and brutally as possible – the man who could turn on...more
3 likes · like · see review
33 A.D. was one of the most creative and well researched books that I have read in a long time. The book is based in the timeline that the title states, with the back drop of Jerusalem, in the days leading up to Christ’s crucifixion.
The Counsel of Thirteen is a small underground government invented and ruled by vampires. They have long wanted a stake in Jerusalem, but there is a young rabbi that is teaching the Jewish population about love and forgiveness.
Theron, a nine-hundred year old vampir...more
The Counsel of Thirteen is a small underground government invented and ruled by vampires. They have long wanted a stake in Jerusalem, but there is a young rabbi that is teaching the Jewish population about love and forgiveness.
Theron, a nine-hundred year old vampir...more
Like most of my new author finds, Amazon recommended this book to me. I was kind of skeptical at first because I consider myself kinda religious so I didn't know how I would feel about this book. After reading it my faith is still intact and I really enjoyed it. The story takes place right around the time of the last supper and ends with the resurrection. I really like McAfee's take on vampires. In his world, there is a cult of vampires silently pulling the strings on the Roman empire and Jesus...more
1 like · like · see review
Okay, here's the thing (and I hate it when this happens)...I read 90% of this book fully expecting to rate it 4 stars because it was really great stuff. Then I read the ending. And it just didn't set well with me. (SPOILERS BEGIN NOW) First let me talk about the stuff I liked: 1) LOVED the fact that people with faith in God had a glow about them that the vampires could sense and which caused them to not want to go near. 2) I loved the fact that Jesus offered forgiveness to Theron...seriously, if...more
I don't like my vampires with bling. They are evil, vile, murderous, intent only on sucking a warm human body dry of the lifeblood that flows in our veins. This story contains none of the new fad of vampire, He of the Shiny Diamond-like Skin who can walk in daylight as long as it is overcast and rainy, who sucks the blood of animals and who plays baseball during thunderstorms.
The story is not new, vampires have been around for as long as human beings have been fascinated with the evil unknown. W...more
The story is not new, vampires have been around for as long as human beings have been fascinated with the evil unknown. W...more
Apr 21, 2010
Ellen Maze
rated it
5 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
vampire fans, thriller fans, YA and adult
Recommended to Ellen by:
David McAfee
(In the interest of brevity, I’ll refrain from summarizing the book plot, please see the Item Description for synopsis.)
I have some advice for you if you’re about to read this book. Do not begin it if you only have a ‘few minutes’ to spare. You will get sucked in by the first paragraph, if not the first words and I’m not easy to please when it comes to contemporary vampire fiction. I first began to read this novel when I had five minutes before leaving the house. That was my mistake—once started...more
I have some advice for you if you’re about to read this book. Do not begin it if you only have a ‘few minutes’ to spare. You will get sucked in by the first paragraph, if not the first words and I’m not easy to please when it comes to contemporary vampire fiction. I first began to read this novel when I had five minutes before leaving the house. That was my mistake—once started...more
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