D. S. Lliteras The Silence of John

The Silence of John

D. S. Lliteras

Hampton Roads, Mar 2005, $19.95

ISBN: 157174410X

At the shadow of The Cross, John is unable to speak, a cretin amongst the brave women waiting for him to provide solace. He failed Jesus though he is the sole male disciple to remain at the Cross. The women are all there making him feel even more helpless and humiliated by his cowardice in contrast to their courage. In frustration he bangs his head against the wood of his stake.

John sees Ester's disdain for him and the other men who fled seeking a safe haven. When he goes to talk with the resurrected Thief, Dinah tells him to back off as he is unworthy. When John reaches The Cross he drops to his knees in tears soliciting unwanted pity from Mary Magdalene and most of the other female followers, but more scorn from Ester who believes he is not honorable to even kneel where their beloved teacher died; he is no longer their equal. Mary the blessed mother tells all to accept God's Will, as she forgives those who failed him. Will John remain silent or heed the guidance of the beloved sacred Mother?

Though the tale comes across more like vignettes describing the reactions of individuals to the aftermath of the crucifixion, fans of D.S. Lliteras' terrific biblical novels will appreciate the strong look at how the followers behaved when their leader died. The women are strong in differing ways while the men pusillanimously hide; interestingly the gospels that come later are all written by men. Due to the perceptive discerning look at the survivors, THE SILENCE OF JOHN is a fabulous entry in a terrific insightful series, though a different writing style than the previous novels.

Harriet Klausner