The Thirteenth Disciple is the first full-length biography for thirteen centuries of the woman who loved Jesus. The closest of Jesus' followers, the name of Mary Magdalene conjures images of a woman both passionate and devoted, both sinner and saint. Speculation, often wild and lurid, about the exact nature of her relationship with Jesus has filled volumes. Detailed research and informed speculation offer a vivid and compelling account of her life. Thomas brings all his writing skill and investigative experience to bear on the gospel narratives, and the archaeology and anthropology of first-century Palestine, in creating this compelling and vivid narrative.