The Silver Chalice Book

This is a great HF first published in 1952 and set in the first century chronicling the rise and spread of the Christian faith. In order to tell a more authentic story, Costain uses real characters such as Joseph of Arimithea, Luke, Peter and other Apostles as well as Nero.

Basil, the main character, is legally adopted into a wealthy family but when the father dies, his position is usurped by his uncle and he is sold into slavery. Luke finds him as he is a prodigy sculptor and buys him out of slavery giving him status once again as a free man. Luke had been searchig on behalf of Joseph of Arimithea who old and feeble as he is, is intent on securing the best and most talented artisan to design a chalice which will be made to fit the cup used by Jesus at The Last Supper". Joseph has safeguarded the cup over the years as the Zealots are intent on destroying any remnants of Jesus and eradicating the entire Christian faith. Basil goes through many trials and tribulations on his journey both to restore his good name and to find those central to the rise of Christianity in order to mold them and include their image for "the Silver Chalice".

Really enjoyed the read. The only thing keeping it from a five star read was at times (in very insignificant places) you had to suspend belief in order to go with the story.