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Mark Tedesco
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I am John, I am Paul: A Story of Two Soldiers in Ancient Rome Paperback – August 15, 2024

by Mark Tedesco (Author)
4.3 out of 5 stars 50 ratings
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"I am John, I am Paul" is an enthralling work of historical fiction penned by Mark Tedesco. Set in 4th century Rome, this captivating novel intricately chronicles the lives of soldiers John and Paul during the reigns of emperors Constantine and Julian. Tedesco's meticulous research is evident as he masterfully weaves a compelling narrative, artfully narrating the story from the first-person perspectives of John and his sister Fulvia. The deep bond between the two soldiers unfolds amidst their trials and unwavering beliefs, ultimately culminating in an unforeseen climax. Tedesco's vivid and evocative writing skillfully immerses readers in the vibrant tapestry of Ancient Rome, the allure of Alexandria and the raw wilderness of Germania.

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  1. Print length
    170 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Academia Publications
  4. Publication date
    August 15, 2024
  5. Dimensions
    6 x 0.39 x 9 inches
  6. ISBN-13
    979-8330320851
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The%20Amazon%20Book%20Review
The Amazon Book Review
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"I am John I am Paul; A Story of Two Soldiers has just enough edge to it to keep you interested in it to not want to put it down yet if you have to, you don't lose your place. You can pick back up where you left off. I have read so many books that when you pick up a book after laying it down, you have to read back a few paragraphs or pages to catch yourself up to know where you are again. Not with this book. It is so interesting that you will remember right where you left off. This book is one of intrigue and mystery both. However, you can also put yourself there and know what it feels like to live during that time period. I love this book." -Amazon


"...This account of the special bond of love and friendship between two Roman soldiers is beautifully written and I quickly found myself immersed into their lives, as they faced the tribulations of war, the ugliness of politics, and challenges to their beliefs. I felt like I was walking with them on their journey, as they come to find true purpose and meaning for their lives. The historical narrative is enlightening and gives the reader some insight into the glory days of ancient Rome, intertwined with the early rise of the Christian church, and the resulting conflict between the two..." -Amazon


"'I am John, I am Paul' has touched me, and revealed to me a place in my own psyche. I felt I have been in Alexandria, in a bar that catered to Roman soldiers, amidst the ruins and rebuildings. I have been to their house, and broke bread with them. Through John and Paul, I have known the forests of Germania and camaraderie of soldiers. This story will live with me, as I recall all the varied natures of Love: familial, friendly, romantic, spiritual. The courage to help others, to create equals. Your ability to evoke each notion of beatitude made it hard to read certain passages I came into this story with certain expectations, and knowing the ending, but I left with a life-long friend." -Amazon

About the Author

Mark Tedesco is a writer and educator who splits his time between California and Italy. He lived in Rome for eight years and is passionate about crafting stories that bridge the gap between the present and the past, delving into the universal human desires seen in relationships, events, culture, and history.Mark has written across a range of genres, including travel writing, historical fiction, memoirs, self-help, and children's fiction. Some of his notable works include: "That Undeniable Longing," "I am John I am Paul," "Lessons and Beliefs," "The Dog on the Acropolis," and "Stories from Puglia." His book about Rome, "She Seduced Me: A Love Affair with Rome," is a testament to his enchantment with the city, blending history, personal narratives, and interviews into a captivating narrative.Apart from writing, Mark is a devoted educator who takes pleasure in imparting his love for history, literature, and each individual's unique story to his students. In his free time, Mark enjoys traveling, with Rome holding a special place in his heart as he believes there are countless untold stories waiting to be discovered there.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DDRTXYX7
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Academia Publications
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 15, 2024
  • Edition ‏ : ‎ 2nd ed.
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 170 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8330320851
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.1 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.39 x 9 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 out of 5 stars 50 ratings

About the author

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Mark Tedesco

Mark Tedesco

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Mark Tedesco is a writer and educator who splits his time between California and Italy. He lived in Rome for eight years and is passionate about crafting stories that bridge the gap between the present and the past, delving into the universal human desires seen in relationships, events, culture, and history.

Mark has written across a range of genres, including travel writing, historical fiction, memoirs, self-help, and children’s fiction. Some of his notable works include: "That Undeniable Longing," "I am John I am Paul," "Lessons and Beliefs," "The Dog on the Acropolis," and "Stories from Puglia." His book about Rome, "She Seduced Me: A Love Affair with Rome," is a testament to his enchantment with the city, blending history, personal narratives, and interviews into a captivating narrative.

Apart from writing, Mark is a devoted educator who takes pleasure in imparting his love for history, literature, and each individual's unique story to his students. In his free time, Mark enjoys traveling, with Rome holding a special place in his heart as he believes there are countless untold stories waiting to be discovered there.

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
50 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find this book to be a beautiful story with a good balance of historical fact and plot, featuring a special bond of love and friendship. Moreover, the writing is well-executed, and customers appreciate its historical accuracy, with one review highlighting its wonderful presentation of Roman history and culture. Additionally, customers praise the book's thought-provoking nature and its portrayal of courage to the end.

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13 customers mention "Story quality"13 positive0 negative

Customers praise the book's moving story of love and friendship, noting its good balance between historical facts and plot development.

"...This was an interesting way to present a story of the Roman Empire through the lives of Paul and John. Amazing to think it was based on a true story...." Read more

"...in the deadly fields of battle and grew into deep affection and brotherly love...." Read more

"...Not with this book. It is so interesting that you will remember right where you left off. This book is one of intrigue and mystery both...." Read more

"...This account of the special bond of love and friendship between two Roman soldiers is beautifully written and I quickly found myself immersed into..." Read more

10 customers mention "Readability"10 positive0 negative

Customers find the book to be a great read.

"...I love this book. Another great job on such a great book." Read more

"...A great read that will keep your attention and give you food for thought!" Read more

"...I'm not always a huge fan of historical novels, but this one was well done. It was a good balance of historical fact and plot...." Read more

"This book is wonderful. Mark Tedesco creates a picture with great detail of fourth century Rome...." Read more

10 customers mention "Writing quality"8 positive2 negative

Customers praise the writing quality of the book, noting it is well written and one customer mentions being able to read it straight through.

"...It is a very easy read. Lovely in the structure and openness in which the author presents the bond between these two men...." Read more

"...He is one of my favorite writers and I absolutely love how he writes each book. This one is no different...." Read more

"...bond of love and friendship between two Roman soldiers is beautifully written and I quickly found myself immersed into their lives, as they faced..." Read more

"...The writing is leaden and the dialogue appears written for third-graders. And, BTW, there is no discernible romance...." Read more

8 customers mention "Historical accuracy"8 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the historical accuracy of the book, with one review highlighting its wonderful presentation of Roman history and culture, while another notes its depth of research.

"...Amazing to think it was based on a true story. I thought it was well researched and look forward to more books like this one." Read more

"...Finally, yes this is historical fiction and it's true we don't know for sure about the actual relationship and some of the surrounding events, but I..." Read more

"...The details in the novel reveal a depth of research that is admirable and allows the reader to be transported into a time and place not our own..." Read more

"...The historical narrative is enlightening and gives the reader some insight into the glory days of ancient Rome, intertwined with the early rise of..." Read more

5 customers mention "Thought provoking"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book thought-provoking, describing it as beautiful and personal.

"...I'm just going to simply say that this was adorable from start to finish...." Read more

"...It is a very easy read. Lovely in the structure and openness in which the author presents the bond between these two men...." Read more

"Thoughtful, Creative, and Historically Interesting Just finished this book and really loved it!..." Read more

"A re-telling of a true story back in the Roman days. Intimate and personal, this account in the 1st Person is fascinating for its detail and epic-..." Read more

3 customers mention "Courage"3 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's portrayal of courage, noting how the characters remain steadfast to the end.

"...THE STRENGTH, PASSION, INTEGRITY AND LOVE THESE TWO MEN HAD AND FOR EACH OTHER IS BEYOND DESCRIPTION...." Read more

"...into how that fledgling faith eventually affected two honest, courageous, spiritually searching men and their ensuing life choices and fates...." Read more

"...Two Roman soldiers, proud, courageous to the end. Details of the time/characters are as if the author was there." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • tleonard
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent history to know about
    Reviewed in the United States on March 2, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I like learning about Italian history from all ages. This was an interesting way to present a story of the Roman Empire through the lives of Paul and John. Amazing to think it was based on a true story. I thought it was well researched and look forward to more books like this one.
    Helpful
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  • Jeremy D
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful little book
    Reviewed in the United States on January 16, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    I've spent a lot of time the past year reading nonfiction and only recently decided to dabble into historical fiction. I saw this and my love of all things Roman made me snatch it up. I think I was expecting more swords and battles than what was here, but I read this in two sittings and was smiling most of the time.

    For anyone who has watched the old biblical epic Quo Vadis, or just studied early Christians at any length, there are similar themes here. As much as I like this period in history, Rome was full of very ugly practices (slavery being a big one) and I think Christianity in the form that it took here offered a kinder, gentler way that was very foreign to the empire. Treating people as equals regardless of rank/class, being benevolent to the poor directly and not relying on the political class to solve those problems, etc. The conversion to Christianity was especially interesting to read about, and how that affected the couple in the title.

    So let's skip to the most important part, John and Paul. I'm just going to simply say that this was adorable from start to finish. I think in a couple instances the reactions of other characters to the relationship is, shall we say, more modern than you would expect, but I didn't mind. Yes, this is a story about two famous martyrs but honestly this is a very positive, uplifting book. Don't let that scare you away!

    Finally, yes this is historical fiction and it's true we don't know for sure about the actual relationship and some of the surrounding events, but I think this is as good of a tribute to someone as I can think of. Enjoy, Amazonians!
    4 people found this helpful
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  • BradleyC
    4.0 out of 5 stars lovely to read
    Reviewed in the United States on October 21, 2013
    Verified Purchase
    As a lover of all things to with ancient empires; as well as insights into the lives of those who lived then along with a hunger to see the loves of men, who today we would call 'gay' I was drawn to this work immediately.
    I am also a fan of historical fiction novels like this, that take real life people and events, bringing them to life again while allowing us to relate to the characters.

    It is a very easy read. Lovely in the structure and openness in which the author presents the bond between these two men. A bond which was forged in the deadly fields of battle and grew into deep affection and brotherly love. A love which united them among all things, in both life and death.

    The details in the novel reveal a depth of research that is admirable and allows the reader to be transported into a time and place not our own where people like ourselves deal with problems that can be very contemporary - the threat of change, the nature of family, the love of friends and the directions we must make when faced with life altering decisions.

    Now, I must disclose, that the author is a friend of mine, however I would recommend this historical novel to anyone who would like to read about two powerful characters who were fully human, fully flawed and fully loved.
    5 people found this helpful
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  • John David Creamer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book; intriguing and a lot of mystery..
    Reviewed in the United States on May 17, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    I would have to say that this book is one of many of Tedesco's that I would recommend. He is one of my favorite writers and I absolutely love how he writes each book. This one is no different. I am John I am Paul; A Story of Two Soldiers has just enough edge to it to keep you interested in it to not want to put it down yet if you have to, you don't lose your place. You can pick back up where you left off. I have read so many books that when you pick up a book after laying it down, you have to read back a few paragraphs or pages to catch yourself up to know where you are again. Not with this book. It is so interesting that you will remember right where you left off. This book is one of intrigue and mystery both. However, you can also put yourself there and know what it feels like to live during that time period. I love this book. Another great job on such a great book.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Rick Harris
    5.0 out of 5 stars Enlightening... Endearing... Intriguing! Simply beautiful!
    Reviewed in the United States on February 7, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    This is my first experience with the author Mark Tedesco, and I am already a huge fan! This account of the special bond of love and friendship between two Roman soldiers is beautifully written and I quickly found myself immersed into their lives, as they faced the tribulations of war, the ugliness of politics, and challenges to their beliefs. I felt like I was walking with them on their journey, as they come to find true purpose and meaning for their lives. The historical narrative is enlightening and gives the reader some insight into the glory days of ancient Rome, intertwined with the early rise of the Christian church, and the resulting conflict between the two. I am well into my second book by Mr. Tedesco, and I definitely will be adding all of his published works to my library!
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Craig Howard
    1.0 out of 5 stars Dull
    Reviewed in the United States on June 17, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    Though very interested in Roman history, I cannot get through this book.

    The writing is leaden and the dialogue appears written for third-graders. And, BTW, there is no discernible romance. About the raciest aspect of the main characters' friendship is an occasional arm about a shoulder. This isn't cheap; it should be.
    4 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • B L.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Intriguing historical novel
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 17, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    A great read I enjoy histo ry caught up in a novel and this has been written very well by an historian weaving events about Roman
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  • José Roberto Mortati
    5.0 out of 5 stars Devoção.
    Reviewed in Brazil on February 19, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    Uma narrativa muito criativa em relação ao desenvolvimento da idéia de Cristo.
    Lindo o relacionamento de John e Paul, belo ensinamento.
    Report
  • muscleguy62
    5.0 out of 5 stars Gay couples are known to have flourished in the ranks ...
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 30, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    Gay couples are known to have flourished in the ranks of the Roman Army. Read this book and then visit the basilica of Giovanni e Paolo in Rome!
    Report