Book excerpt: "Perpetua, a wealthy noblemwoman just coming of age in Carthage, discovers Jesus at a time when Christians are being thrown to the beasts in city amphitheaters for sport. Rejecting the gods of the ancient Roman Empire, she embraces a passionate relationship with Jesus and falls in love with a man who shares her faith. Together they navigate the treacherous, bloodthirsty waters of the social culture, but every step seems to take them closer to the ultimate sacrifice."--Provided by publisher.