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When Susan changed from a career as a computer trainer to writing early Christian fiction, it seemed as vast a change as moving from Scotland to Western Australia.
It came about after listening to a detailed Bible study on the Gospel of John. Susan' interest was piqued. What was it like for those first 'Followers of the Way? Further studies, and an enormous amount of research later, the facts demanded to be recorded... as fiction. In that way, how early Christians lived became an interesting story, rather than a treatise.
"Researching life in the 1st Century AD is a combination of mystery tour and treasure hunt," she said.
One she enjoyed.
Thus, the Apostle John series came into being.
But the books are not only about the Apostle John. They are a window into the life of the people in the late 1st century AD.
Meet them in Hold the Faith, Grow in Grace and The Light of Truth.
On a personal level, Susan says - "It was difficult to continue with book 3, The Light of Truth, after my precious husband and best friend died in December 2013. However, she knows he would be pleased to know it is done, and is continuing."
Susan still lives in the Perth metropolitan area, Western Australia, and is currently working on the next book in the series. Keep the Flame.
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Grow in Grace: Early Christianity Comes to Life: The Apostle John series by Susan Preston is the second book in this series and starts from where the first book ended. Benjamin has left his home because the girl he loved is now promised to another man. His mother is grieving over his departure and Benjamin is feeling guilty about leaving his great-grandfather behind when he just started to write his gospel. But he is coming back home and he is not sure what kind of reception he will get. However, Benjamin is sure of one thing: his belief in God and his love for Him. But when he comes back, a lot of things have changed. Although John the Apostle is back home after he repeatedly rejects worshiping Domitian, the Roman Emperor, John is not safe. He can be captured once again, any time.
Lately I have decided to read novels that grab my attention, regardless of their position in a series. When I picked up Grow in Grace, I was expecting something thrilling, something religious and something timeless. It was all these things and more. Sure, the main theme of the novel is religion, but it is not overpowering, making this novel easy to read and understand and enjoyable by all. People who are not big fans of Christian fiction will also enjoy it and read it again too. This novel is a keeper.
