The Flame and the Laurel

Set in the shadow of Nero's Rome in AD 64, "The Flame and the Laurel" follows three unlikely allies brought together by the urgent need to preserve a sacred text during a time of mounting persecution. When Hannah bat Eliezer, a Jewish-Christian woman from Jerusalem, arrives in Rome carrying her father's carefully recorded Aramaic manuscript of Jesus's original teachings, she finds herself pursued by imperial authorities.

As Rome erupts in the Great Fire and Nero begins scapegoating Christians, these three—divided by culture, religion, and social position—form a dangerous conspiracy to smuggle the manuscript where it can be preserved.

"The Flame and the Laurel" explores themes of faith tested by fire, the cost of conscience in a world of power, and how truth might be preserved when those in authority seek to extinguish it. The novel blends historical authenticity with spiritual journey, showing how the flame of truth can endure despite overwhelming opposition when carried by those willing to risk everything for what they believe.