Peter, Paul, and Mary Magdalene is a serious look, based on ancient texts, at what is known and unknown about three of the most important and intriguing followers of Jesus: Peter, his closest disciple: Paul, his most important apostle: and Mary Magdalene, his most prominent female follower.

Illuminating the lives of three of Jesus' most intriguing followers, Ehrman separates fact from fiction, presenting complicated historical issues in a clear and informative way and relating vivid anecdotes culled from the traditions of these three followers.