THE BRONZE DOOR

A Story of Courage, Faith, and Love in the Shadow of the Roman Empire

In a world ruled by emperors and threatened by rebellion, The Bronze Door delivers a gripping tale of power, faith, and deliverance—set against one of the most turbulent eras of the Roman Empire.

When Caligula’s growing obsession with his own deification threatens to ignite a catastrophic war, lives across Judea and Syria hang in the balance. Simon of Cyrene—a fighter for justice for his fellow Jews—is torn between protecting his people and navigating profound change within his own family when his wife Aurelia and his sons embrace the new faith of Christianity.

Aurelia’s brother Valerius, newly appointed Roman governor of Syria, is ordered to carry out a command that could destroy thousands of Jews: install Caligula’s statue in the sacred Temple in Jerusalem. Obedience to Caligula means mass slaughter. Disobedience means death to himself and his family. At the heart of this impossible choice is Rachel—Simon’s courageous sister—whose rekindled bond with Valerius shapes the emotional core of his struggle for peace.

Sweeping across Alexandria, Syria, and Jerusalem, The Bronze Door captures a pivotal moment in history—when Roman military strategy, Jewish resistance, early Christianity, and the voices of strong women collide. With richly researched detail, Karin Ciholas brings to life the political tension, human courage, and spiritual awakening of the first century.

To learn more about The Cyrenian Trilogy, go to Karin Ciholas's website: thecyreninatrilogy.com

Awards

Bookfest Award winner

International Impact Award Winner

The Coffee Pot Book Club Book of the Year Award 2025

Critical Acclaim

"A well-spun historical tale with a host of fully realized characters."

- Kirkus Reviews

"A stunningly imagined and expertly executed historical narrative with real characters and conflict that moves the story in unexpected directions."

- James Farlow, The Book Commentary

"There is so much history uncluded in this story, and it is explained flawlessly and in an interesting and attention-grabbing manner that will keep you on the edge of your seat."

- Kathy Sickles, The Feathered Quill

"This novel is what a historical novel should be. Readers of I Claudius and Claudius the God, will find The Bronze Door to be a rich addition to an understanding of the age."

- Elaine Palencia, Author of Brier Country, On Rising Ground, Small Caucasian Woman

"The novel speaks to matters of enduring religious and political significance."

- Eric Mount, Author of Conscience and Responsibility, The Feminine Factor, Community and the Common Good

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