Forgotten Followers: from Broken to Bold - Paperback

by Elaine Ricker Kelly (Author)

AFTER YEARS OF SUBMISSION, Mara lives in anxiety and isolation, unsure of herself and her place in the world. But when her nephew Jesus is chased off a cliff, she is thrust into the unknown and forced to confront her deepest fears. As she struggles against the patriarchal oppression of ancient Rome and Judea and learns to love herself, Mara must also come to terms with her son's sexuality, learn to build female friendships and find her own voice.

Meanwhile, Joanna grapples with hiding her biracial heritage to avoid being banished by the community as her father was. But as she begins to question her self-identity, she must make a choice: continue passing as something she is not or risk losing everything.

When Jesus performs miraculous signs and teaches radical ideas of love and equality, Mara and Joanna are empowered and risk their lives to follow him.

Forgotten Followers, the CIPA EVVY Silver Award Winner and Book 1 of the From Broken to Bold series, brings to life Mara, based on Mary of Clopas, Joanna, and other often-forgotten women of the Bible.

Similar to Sue Monk Kidd's "The Book of Longings", this historical fiction challenges traditional narratives and addresses themes of racial and gender equality that still resonate today. For progressive Christians, exvangelicals, and those deconstructing their faith, Mara and Joanna's story of love and hope is a must-read.

Don't miss out on this powerful retelling of the Gospels through a feminist and LGBTQ+ affirming lens. Join Mara and Joanna on their journey of healing and empowerment.