I just got through reading this book. It is historical fiction about Sextus Cassius Optimus of the Praetorian Guard who was assigned to guard the Apostle Paul who was under house arrest while awaiting trial in Rome.

Optimus was a fierce man with much blood on his hands and a debauched lifestyle. His life is changed by his conversion after he met Paul.

The book is fascinating. Not only is the story line very well done and paced but there is lots to learn about Roman history, culture, government, war fighting and much much more.

Mr. Prescott fleshes out Paul and Luke as well as various Roman emperors.

In short this is one awesome book.

I give it 3.5 stars out of 4.

The author has a blog that is also interesting.