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The Fisherman's Testament
It is the year AD 62. The notorious Roman emperor Nero orders Marco Junio Vitalis, a seasoned military general, to assist him in a most peculiar legal proceeding. Vitalis interrogates an elderly Jewish fisherman called Peter, who many years earlier had been a close friend of a man known as Jesus---the same Jesus condemned to death in Jerusalem by Pontius Pilate. Loyal to the emperor, Vitalis determines to do everything in his power to expose the truth around this strange new religious sect before it undermines Roman rule. So it is, through the course of interrogation between veteran soldier and detainee, that a story emerges that will shake the very foundations of the Roman Empire. Now making its first-ever appearance in English, this award-winning, meticulously researched Spanish bestseller transports readers back to ancient Rome ... to a culture far removed from ours yet with striking similarities ... and a time of tumultuous upheaval where the stakes are high for followers of Christ.
173 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2004
23 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
César Vidal
307 books111 followersCésar Vidal es doctor en Historia, Teología y Filosofía y licenciado en Derecho. Ha ejercido la docencia en distintas universidades de Europa y América, y es actualmente catedrático de Historia en la Logos University (EE. UU.). Es colaborador habitual en medios de comunicación como El Mundo, Diario 16 o la cadena COPE. Defensor infatigable de los derechos humanos, ha sido distinguido con el Premio Humanismo de la Fundación Hebraica (1996) y ha recibido el reconocimiento de organizaciones como Yad-Vashem, Supervivientes del Holocausto de Venezuela, ORT de México o Jóvenes Contra la Intolerancia, entre muchas otras.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 12, 2010
There are many excellent reasons César Vidal is an international bestselling author, and "The Fisherman’s Testament" is one of them.
In "The Fisherman’s Testament," Señor Vidal blends superb storytelling with Scriptural truth into a powerful novelization of Mark’s Gospel. Originally penned in Spanish, nothing is lost in translation in this novel that garnered the Martinez-Roca Spirituality Prize in 2004. Consider the first sentences of the novel for a flavor of the author and his main character:
“I, Marcus Junius Vitalis, known amongst my men as the “Asiatic,” veteran soldier in the service of Rome, faithful companion of Cæsar Claudius and Cæsar Nero, know that I have arrived at the last stretch of this winding and bitter path we call life. Others will live on, be it for a shorter or longer time, but my life is ending. Before I know it, it will be utterly extinguished, and I will find myself cast onto the shores of a different world.”
It is from this perspective Vitalis relates his story of an encounter that upended his world view as a die-hard defender of Rome and staunch adherent to the ideals of the Empire, and framed his view of the “different world” now poised to receive him.
The setting is 62 AD Rome, in Nero’s palace. The Emperor commissions Vitalis to investigate a neo-Jewish cult who profess to follow the "Christos." One of the last survivors of the original inner circle of the "Christos", a fisherman named Petros, is imprisoned in Rome. Nero decides to lead the prosecution personally to ascertain why this cult that calls itself “The Way” did not die out after the crucifixion of its leader 30 years earlier, as so many other rebellions had in the past—indeed, it continues to grow, its influence now reaching into even the capital city. Vitalis joins Nero in the interrogation and hears the tale from the mouth of Petros through Mark, his companion and translator. Nero and Vitalis walk away with completely divergent impressions of the story they’ve heard.
Only 167 pages, this is a ‘quick read’; however, its impact will linger long after you reach the back cover. While nothing can replace Scripture, "The Fisherman’s Testament" is a worthy alternative text to recommend to someone who may never otherwise crack open the Bible. The power in hearing the Gospel is presented through the divinely inspired words of Petros and Mark, anticipated objections and misunderstandings of the message are delivered through the humanly understandable reactions of Nero and Vitalis, and the joy of reading excellent prose is delivered through the enviable literary skill of Señor Vidal. Tough combination to beat!
In "The Fisherman’s Testament," Señor Vidal blends superb storytelling with Scriptural truth into a powerful novelization of Mark’s Gospel. Originally penned in Spanish, nothing is lost in translation in this novel that garnered the Martinez-Roca Spirituality Prize in 2004. Consider the first sentences of the novel for a flavor of the author and his main character:
“I, Marcus Junius Vitalis, known amongst my men as the “Asiatic,” veteran soldier in the service of Rome, faithful companion of Cæsar Claudius and Cæsar Nero, know that I have arrived at the last stretch of this winding and bitter path we call life. Others will live on, be it for a shorter or longer time, but my life is ending. Before I know it, it will be utterly extinguished, and I will find myself cast onto the shores of a different world.”
It is from this perspective Vitalis relates his story of an encounter that upended his world view as a die-hard defender of Rome and staunch adherent to the ideals of the Empire, and framed his view of the “different world” now poised to receive him.
The setting is 62 AD Rome, in Nero’s palace. The Emperor commissions Vitalis to investigate a neo-Jewish cult who profess to follow the "Christos." One of the last survivors of the original inner circle of the "Christos", a fisherman named Petros, is imprisoned in Rome. Nero decides to lead the prosecution personally to ascertain why this cult that calls itself “The Way” did not die out after the crucifixion of its leader 30 years earlier, as so many other rebellions had in the past—indeed, it continues to grow, its influence now reaching into even the capital city. Vitalis joins Nero in the interrogation and hears the tale from the mouth of Petros through Mark, his companion and translator. Nero and Vitalis walk away with completely divergent impressions of the story they’ve heard.
Only 167 pages, this is a ‘quick read’; however, its impact will linger long after you reach the back cover. While nothing can replace Scripture, "The Fisherman’s Testament" is a worthy alternative text to recommend to someone who may never otherwise crack open the Bible. The power in hearing the Gospel is presented through the divinely inspired words of Petros and Mark, anticipated objections and misunderstandings of the message are delivered through the humanly understandable reactions of Nero and Vitalis, and the joy of reading excellent prose is delivered through the enviable literary skill of Señor Vidal. Tough combination to beat!
May 31, 2011
Belief is a difficult thing. You have people who have used thier beliefs to justify killing. You have the people who thought the Rapture would occur on the 21st of May. You have the people who made fun of those end of the world believers when the end of the world didn't occur, as the majority of people in the world knew it wouldn't.
Books and movies about beliefs can be tricky things as well, in particular, fictionalized books can be tricky. At times, they can descend into thinly disguised "convert or die" tracks. At others, they are historical inaccurate, such as when the ancient Egyptian pharaoh went monothesic, in some fictionalizations there is a Christ or Jewish presence that is not backed by the historic record.
This book is not like that. It is a simple book about the trial of Peter. This simplicity is what makes it a very good read. It doesn't try to convert, but simply to get the reader to think, at most. This makes this book work.
Books and movies about beliefs can be tricky things as well, in particular, fictionalized books can be tricky. At times, they can descend into thinly disguised "convert or die" tracks. At others, they are historical inaccurate, such as when the ancient Egyptian pharaoh went monothesic, in some fictionalizations there is a Christ or Jewish presence that is not backed by the historic record.
This book is not like that. It is a simple book about the trial of Peter. This simplicity is what makes it a very good read. It doesn't try to convert, but simply to get the reader to think, at most. This makes this book work.
March 23, 2012
I wish there were 6 stars, or 7 or 8, this book would deserve every one. It is bar none the most beautifully written account of someone coming to faith through the hearing of the Word that I have ever read.
The story is of the trial of Peter before Nero and is told through the eyes of the inquisitor. The writing gave me pictures of St. Peter that I had never clearly understood before and explained the significance of the raising of Jairus's daughter in a way I had never heard and that Mark has since confirmed to be accurate.
The writing style is moving and drew me deeper into the book with each page, the two fictional characters are drawn in such a real manner as to walk off the pages and the descriptions of Peter giving his testimony through the interpretations of Mark are so well written that it was like watching it happen.
I will read this author's work wherever I find it and am thankful that I happened upon this book at the library, what a happy accident. I think it has earned a spot on our shelves only to given away whenever the occasion arises to share it.
The story is of the trial of Peter before Nero and is told through the eyes of the inquisitor. The writing gave me pictures of St. Peter that I had never clearly understood before and explained the significance of the raising of Jairus's daughter in a way I had never heard and that Mark has since confirmed to be accurate.
The writing style is moving and drew me deeper into the book with each page, the two fictional characters are drawn in such a real manner as to walk off the pages and the descriptions of Peter giving his testimony through the interpretations of Mark are so well written that it was like watching it happen.
I will read this author's work wherever I find it and am thankful that I happened upon this book at the library, what a happy accident. I think it has earned a spot on our shelves only to given away whenever the occasion arises to share it.
February 8, 2014
Breve novela (236 pp.) que cuenta en boca del apóstol Pedro las vivencias de Jesús de Nazaret. Marcos es su intérprete delante del propio Nerón en un juicio al que se le somete a Pedro en Roma. La narración está en boca de un soldado romano apodado "el asiático" por su experiencia en esas tierras (personaje éste y su amigo que son los únicos ficticios).
Una narración muy emotiva, que puesta en boca de un simple soldado dota de un realismo añadido a la historia más grande jamás contada. Una novela histórica que se puede leer en dos tardes y que, por su estilo simple, llano y directo al corazón, gana el interés del lector desde la primera página.
Además, siendo su autor el gran historiador César Vidal cuenta esta obra con la rigurosidad y calidad que son marcas propias de este autor. Un libro muy ameno, tanto para el que busca acercarse por primera vez a la figura histórica de Jesús y de sus seguidores, como para el que quiere pasar simplemente un grato tiempo de lectura.
Una narración muy emotiva, que puesta en boca de un simple soldado dota de un realismo añadido a la historia más grande jamás contada. Una novela histórica que se puede leer en dos tardes y que, por su estilo simple, llano y directo al corazón, gana el interés del lector desde la primera página.
Además, siendo su autor el gran historiador César Vidal cuenta esta obra con la rigurosidad y calidad que son marcas propias de este autor. Un libro muy ameno, tanto para el que busca acercarse por primera vez a la figura histórica de Jesús y de sus seguidores, como para el que quiere pasar simplemente un grato tiempo de lectura.
October 19, 2009
The Fisherman’s Testament is a unique retelling of the gospel of Mark. The story is told from the perspective of Marcus Junius Vitalis, a Roman military general, who is summoned by Caesar Nero to assist with the interrogation of an important leader from the sect known as the Christians. This leader turns out to be none other than the apostle Peter. Since Peter is not fluent in Latin, he is accompanied by an interpreter known as Mark. As Caesar Nero and Vitalis ask questions to ascertain how dangerous these Christians are, Peter responds by methodically sharing the gospel story. While Nero is irritated by Peter’s story, Vitalis is deeply moved and disturbed by the story of Jesus and its implications. As the trial is coming to a close, Vitalis avoids the final sentencing by feigning sickness and escaping to the countryside. Shortly thereafter the story comes to a close. In the end we learn that Peter was executed, Rome has burned, and Vitalis has come to terms with the story of Jesus. He has embraced the story Peter shared wholeheartedly and has himself become a follower of Jesus Christ.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction set in the time of the early church, I highly recommend you take a look at this book. History buffs will appreciate the many cultural details that show up throughout. There are a number of Latin words that will most likely be unfamiliar to the reader. Fortunately, there is a short glossary at the back of the book, which defines some of these lesser known Latin words and phrases. All things considered, this book was truly a great read. I’d put it on par with such classics as Lloyd C. Douglas’s The Robe or The Big Fisherman. As such, it has earned the rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Cesar Vidal has authored over fifty books, works of historical fiction and nonfiction. Among his award-winning books are Pablo: El Judio del Tarso, on the life of the apostle Paul, which won the Algabo Prize for Biography (2006); El Testamento del Pescador (The Fisherman’s Testament), which won the Martinez-Roca Premio Espirtualidad (2004); and Los Hijos de la Luz (Children of the Light), which won the Novela Ciudad Torrevieja Prize (2005). A devout Christian, Vidal lives in Madrid, Spain.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction set in the time of the early church, I highly recommend you take a look at this book. History buffs will appreciate the many cultural details that show up throughout. There are a number of Latin words that will most likely be unfamiliar to the reader. Fortunately, there is a short glossary at the back of the book, which defines some of these lesser known Latin words and phrases. All things considered, this book was truly a great read. I’d put it on par with such classics as Lloyd C. Douglas’s The Robe or The Big Fisherman. As such, it has earned the rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Cesar Vidal has authored over fifty books, works of historical fiction and nonfiction. Among his award-winning books are Pablo: El Judio del Tarso, on the life of the apostle Paul, which won the Algabo Prize for Biography (2006); El Testamento del Pescador (The Fisherman’s Testament), which won the Martinez-Roca Premio Espirtualidad (2004); and Los Hijos de la Luz (Children of the Light), which won the Novela Ciudad Torrevieja Prize (2005). A devout Christian, Vidal lives in Madrid, Spain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2014
Wonderfully Written, an Author who Knows The LORD
These are the ONLY type of Historical CHRISTIAN Fiction books that I will read. Founded completely on the Absolute TRUTH of the GOSPEL.
I search and search for books like this. Books by Authors who KNOW the LORD, who have heard, and who Hear HIS voice, I'm glad- Happy even, to have discovered (more like Led to discover) this author.
Now I'm going to BUY the book he wrote about THE APOSTLE PAUL, AND READ IT with the PEACE OF MIND that I've NOT bought a book written by another heretical author that are popping up all over the place twisting and distorting the WORD OF GOD, exactly like the gnostic have been trying to do for two millennia
I Thank GOD for Authors who write Historical Fiction of the New / Old Testament the way it needs to be written. Based first on the SOLID TRUTH OF SCRIPTURE First and foremost, and then weave the story (or filling it) into the WORD
AWESOME AUTHOR, AWESOME BOOK, READ IT!!!
These are the ONLY type of Historical CHRISTIAN Fiction books that I will read. Founded completely on the Absolute TRUTH of the GOSPEL.
I search and search for books like this. Books by Authors who KNOW the LORD, who have heard, and who Hear HIS voice, I'm glad- Happy even, to have discovered (more like Led to discover) this author.
Now I'm going to BUY the book he wrote about THE APOSTLE PAUL, AND READ IT with the PEACE OF MIND that I've NOT bought a book written by another heretical author that are popping up all over the place twisting and distorting the WORD OF GOD, exactly like the gnostic have been trying to do for two millennia
I Thank GOD for Authors who write Historical Fiction of the New / Old Testament the way it needs to be written. Based first on the SOLID TRUTH OF SCRIPTURE First and foremost, and then weave the story (or filling it) into the WORD
AWESOME AUTHOR, AWESOME BOOK, READ IT!!!
July 24, 2008
Wow! This was a really good read! The narrative was told from the perspective of a Roman citizen asked to assist Emperor Nero in the trial of a Nazarene named "Petros". As Petros testifies before the emperor about his relationship with his teacher, Christos, the Roman begins to explore his own beliefs. It is a moving, riveting narrative, and I could hardly put it down. Read this one!!!
July 27, 2013
Perfect, beautiful & edifying.
March 19, 2014
No more, no less. I could not ask for more.
He wrote the story naturally.. he did not try hard to combine fictional ideas with what is true. :)
He wrote the story naturally.. he did not try hard to combine fictional ideas with what is true. :)
April 23, 2018
This was a short summary of the Gospels told to Nero by Peter before his execution. A small historical fiction component was added to make it read like a story, but it is a very small component. The author tried to retell the Gospels as they would have been recited during the historical era and tried to record how the typical Roman would have reacted to them. It was an enjoyable, quick read.
April 19, 2021
El testamento del pescador
Excelente relato con bases evangélicas reales y basadas en las Sagradas Escrituras, con un genial toque histórico que transporta al lector a escuchar el relato de uno de los más files seguidores de Cristo, quien a pesar del inminente castigo, en ningún momento dudó en testificar a favor de aquel quien murió por el perdón de nuestros pecados
Excelente relato con bases evangélicas reales y basadas en las Sagradas Escrituras, con un genial toque histórico que transporta al lector a escuchar el relato de uno de los más files seguidores de Cristo, quien a pesar del inminente castigo, en ningún momento dudó en testificar a favor de aquel quien murió por el perdón de nuestros pecados
October 25, 2018
An incredible retelling of Peter's story of Jesus in front of Nero and his tribunal; highly recommended
October 14, 2024
Una delicia de novela, engarzada en la historia romana y la exégesis de los evangelios. El mensaje de la fe a través de una novela histórica.
June 2, 2011
The Fisherman's Testament is a retelling of the gospel of Mark through the perspective of Marcus Junius Vitalis, a Roman military general, who is summoned by Caesar Nero to interrogate the apostle Peter. Since Peter is not fluent in Latin, he is accompanied by an interpreter (we learn later it is Mark). Vitalis starts the interrogation trying to help Nero learn of the dangers Christians pose, but as Peter relates the gospel teachings, Vitalis finds himself moved and subsequently disturbed by his reactions to the stories of Jesus and his miracles. This is a really interesting blend of Roman history and Christian teaching, revealing the gospel in creative and powerful way. It is a very fast read but leaves you reflecting on the work longer than actually reading it.
August 10, 2008
This was a wonderful story about Peter one of Jesus's apostles. The story is told through the voice of a Roman soldier working for the king to track down Peter in an effort to learn more about Jesus and his followers.
Peter is taken into custody and interrogated by the soldier, and through his interrogation this soldier gains a new faith in Jesus also. A great story of witnessing and the testament of faith.
Peter is taken into custody and interrogated by the soldier, and through his interrogation this soldier gains a new faith in Jesus also. A great story of witnessing and the testament of faith.
August 10, 2011
This is the summer reading book for our "Christian Scriptures" class at school. It's respectable. I relies mostly on the Gospel of Mark for its text. The translator, Kadi Kool, did an amazing job! It's an easy read, and a good way to introduce young people to the Gospel of Mark. For an adult, I think I would just recommend reading the actual gospel.
January 11, 2013
the Roman Empire, Nero's court, and a fisherman's accounts on his years spent with Jesus.
Unputdownable---this book is a creative masterpiece where Vidal's love for history, reverence truth, and devotion for Christ is found in a homogeneous mixture.
...made me cry a couple of times.
Unputdownable---this book is a creative masterpiece where Vidal's love for history, reverence truth, and devotion for Christ is found in a homogeneous mixture.
...made me cry a couple of times.
December 18, 2013
A great way to read the bible.
The book's content is mostly the gospel of Mark but told in a different light.
This is a must read for somebody who wants to know about the life of Jesus without holding an actual (or complete) bible.
The book's content is mostly the gospel of Mark but told in a different light.
This is a must read for somebody who wants to know about the life of Jesus without holding an actual (or complete) bible.
October 10, 2022
Cautivadora
Me encanta la forma de reconstruir el Evangelio desde esa perspectiva del testimonio, es una estrategia genial para contemplar la historia y atender desde otra mirada, aquello que nos compartieron las primeras comunidades cristianas.
Me encanta la forma de reconstruir el Evangelio desde esa perspectiva del testimonio, es una estrategia genial para contemplar la historia y atender desde otra mirada, aquello que nos compartieron las primeras comunidades cristianas.
April 15, 2009
Moving fictionalized story of the trial of Simon Peter in the Roman court of Cesar Nero. Wonderfully contrasts of Roman life against Judaism (sp.??) and our modern society. Good Read.
Want to read
February 22, 2010Rome & followers of Christ
Read
August 6, 2011Very good. Gives insight into how the Romans would have responded to early Christian teaching.
March 13, 2013
A good read!
August 26, 2013
This is an account of the life of Jesus through the interrogation of an aged Petros done by the Romans. One gets the Roman perspective. Very good book.
Want to read
January 25, 2011Recommended by my Aunt Kathy
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews