The Stain: Crisis In Conscience A Historical Novel (2nd Edition)

I have read several novels which interpret the Gospels from one perspective or another and I can say without reservation that this is the best I have read. Solidly grounded in the events portrayed in the four Gospels but seen through the eyes of a Roman Centurion, “The Stain” challenged this retired, modern day Centurion to reflect deeply on the challenge of trying to achieve a balance between faithfulness to God and to the military profession (or many another profession). Jesus’ admonition against trying to serve two masters comes into sharp focus. The sub-title, “Crisis of Conscience” is apt. A skilled story teller, Mr. De Vos’ brings the Gospel story to life.

This book is captivating and keeps your interest through its historical accuracy of the time period, while also enriching your knowledge of how Jesus was viewed at the time. It is an opportunity to experience the last days of Christ seen through the eyes of a Roman Centurion, who is loyal to Rome. But his interaction with the Jews, and his search for Jesus gives him much to think about the Jew's one God. The Romans numerous Gods don't seem to respond to their believers like the Jew's one God does. The Centurion is perplexed by the perceived threat of the peaceful Jesus to the Jews and to Herod Antipas.

A centurion, a soldier, yet a passionate compelling narrator of historical 33-34 A.D. as his descriptive tale unfolds drawing you into that time period. Through the centurion's eyes the reader gains an understanding of the political and religious forces driving the events that sweep him along to the foot of the cross...and beyond. A very engrossing and well-written historically-based novel by Ed Devos should be read by everyone, Christian and skeptic alike, as they put themselves in the centurion's sandals. The Stain: Crisis In Conscience A Historical Novel

This is a very good book,well written and very entertaining.I was impressed with its historical accuracy as well.The author has done his homework and has given us a great story as well.Highly Recomended.-FS

Wow... This book really gripped me from the start. As a Christian, I was truly touched, and parts of it made my eyes "leak". Author Ed DeVos has a gift for writing. I highly recommend this book. Dan Barnett

Great read.

The Stain is an insightful and thoughtful historical novel about one of the most important stories in history - the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a mesmerizing account of the story, with unexpected accents and turns, one that will keep the reader glued to the story.The book begins ten months before the crucifixion as a Roman centurion is tasked by Herod Antipas to behead John the Baptist. When challenged by John to put all his trust in John's God instead of his Roman gods, the centurion is haunted by the words as he meets others who tell him more about John and another man, Jesus of Nazareth.The story comes to a climax when Pontius Pilate orders the centurion to conduct the crucifixion of Jesus. As the soldier reflects upon everything he has learned about Jesus, he faces a crisis in conscience. Can he bring himself to believe that Jesus is the son of God? While The Stain is about the centurion's struggle, it is our struggle as well. Do we believe Jesus Christ is who he claims to be? This story is a must-read for everyone, Christians and skeptic alike. It captures the real essence of a story that has held the world's attention for centuries.

THE STAIN is a powerful novel told through the point of view of the Roman Centurion who is charged with the crucifixion of Jesus. Paralleling events depicted in the New Testament, the Holy Land comes to life as Ed DeVos places the reader into believable and well researched settings. The main character, a man of strong principal dedicated to his duty as a soldier of the Roman Empire, struggles with events and miracles he experiences attributed to Jesus. His duty forces him to serve and follow orders from Herod and Pilate leading to questioning of his own convictions. The story is well developed with excellent dialog and descriptive settings and actions. This is a novel that is well worth the read.