What do you think?
Rate this book
Fellowship of the Essentials #1
The Diaries of Pontius Pilate - A Thriller
The Diaries of Pontius Pilate opens when a member of an archeological team is murdered along the shores of the Dead Sea. We learn that the murderer and victim are both spies, observing the expedition and grappling with the fact that the team has just discovered some controversial artifacts.
In fact, Archeologist Kevin Elliot and his Deputy, Jill Gates have unearthed twenty copper scrolls etched with the results of Pontius Pilate’s year long criminal investigation into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They manage to open one scroll far enough to take a series of digital photographs of the writings and email them to a Professor of Ancient Latin for translation. Unaware of the scrolls content, Kevin and Jill are unprepared when they’re caught between an ancient conspiracy of global power that’s determined to destroy the scrolls along with everyone connected to them, and a small, fledgling volunteer group, the only force on earth that stands between Kevin, Jill and certain death.
"Lewis has written a nail-biting thriller that jumps into action on page 1 and doesn't stop until you reach the back cover. Don't open this book unless you're sitting in a comfortable chair with good reading light, because you won't want to move." - Thom Lemmons, Christy award winning author of Jabez: A Novel, and Blameless.
“Pontius Pilate’s diaries . . . would rock the world if discovered today . . . Lewis’s characters are muscular, violent, dedicated . . . and faithful . . . Good and evil remain at war . . . while an archaeologist possessing Pilate’s scrolls is hunted down - Denny Bonavita, Editor and Publisher, Courier-Express / Tri – County Sunday (McLean Publishing Co. - Pennsylvania).
“Joe Lewis and The Diaries of Pontius Pilate tantalize . . . as did “Raiders of The Lost Ark”. . . The archaeologists who discovered the Diaries travel through a gauntlet . . . to bring those records to the public. Don’t wait: . . . follow them in their quest!” – Major Anthony F. Milavic, U.S.M.C. (Retired) and founder of MILINET.
Joseph Max Lewis served as a member of an Operational Detachment in the U.S. Army's Seventh Special Forces Group, the storied Green Berets. During his service Lewis received antiterrorist training and his detachment was tasked to "Special Projects." Afterward, he served as an instructor at the Special Forces Qualification Course. Lewis attended the Pennsylvania State University, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, the University of Tel Aviv in Israel, and the University of Pittsburgh, receiving degrees in International Politics and Law while being certified in Middle East Studies.
After living and studying abroad, first in the Middle East and then Southeast Asia, Lewis returned home to practice law. He’s a columnist in the New Bethlehem Leader-Vindicator and currently lives, writes, and practices law in and around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
In fact, Archeologist Kevin Elliot and his Deputy, Jill Gates have unearthed twenty copper scrolls etched with the results of Pontius Pilate’s year long criminal investigation into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They manage to open one scroll far enough to take a series of digital photographs of the writings and email them to a Professor of Ancient Latin for translation. Unaware of the scrolls content, Kevin and Jill are unprepared when they’re caught between an ancient conspiracy of global power that’s determined to destroy the scrolls along with everyone connected to them, and a small, fledgling volunteer group, the only force on earth that stands between Kevin, Jill and certain death.
"Lewis has written a nail-biting thriller that jumps into action on page 1 and doesn't stop until you reach the back cover. Don't open this book unless you're sitting in a comfortable chair with good reading light, because you won't want to move." - Thom Lemmons, Christy award winning author of Jabez: A Novel, and Blameless.
“Pontius Pilate’s diaries . . . would rock the world if discovered today . . . Lewis’s characters are muscular, violent, dedicated . . . and faithful . . . Good and evil remain at war . . . while an archaeologist possessing Pilate’s scrolls is hunted down - Denny Bonavita, Editor and Publisher, Courier-Express / Tri – County Sunday (McLean Publishing Co. - Pennsylvania).
“Joe Lewis and The Diaries of Pontius Pilate tantalize . . . as did “Raiders of The Lost Ark”. . . The archaeologists who discovered the Diaries travel through a gauntlet . . . to bring those records to the public. Don’t wait: . . . follow them in their quest!” – Major Anthony F. Milavic, U.S.M.C. (Retired) and founder of MILINET.
Joseph Max Lewis served as a member of an Operational Detachment in the U.S. Army's Seventh Special Forces Group, the storied Green Berets. During his service Lewis received antiterrorist training and his detachment was tasked to "Special Projects." Afterward, he served as an instructor at the Special Forces Qualification Course. Lewis attended the Pennsylvania State University, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, the University of Tel Aviv in Israel, and the University of Pittsburgh, receiving degrees in International Politics and Law while being certified in Middle East Studies.
After living and studying abroad, first in the Middle East and then Southeast Asia, Lewis returned home to practice law. He’s a columnist in the New Bethlehem Leader-Vindicator and currently lives, writes, and practices law in and around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2012
21 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Max Lewis
15 books116 followersJoseph Max Lewis served as a member of an Operational Detachment in the U.S. Army's Seventh Special Forces Group, the storied Green Berets. During his service Lewis received antiterrorist training and his detachment was tasked to "Special Projects." Afterward, he served as an instructor at the Special Forces Qualification Course. Lewis attended the Pennsylvania State University, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, the University of Tel Aviv in Israel, and the University of Pittsburgh, receiving degrees in International Politics and Law while being certified in Middle East Studies.
After living and studying abroad, first in the Middle East and then Southeast Asia, Lewis returned home to practice law. He’s a columnist in the New Bethlehem Leader-Vindicator and currently lives, writes, and practices law in and around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
After living and studying abroad, first in the Middle East and then Southeast Asia, Lewis returned home to practice law. He’s a columnist in the New Bethlehem Leader-Vindicator and currently lives, writes, and practices law in and around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
May 12, 2019
I don’t often reader “thrillers” and here is why: they can too easily be bad.
The first fatal mistake of a book labeling itself a thriller is to be plodding and slow. If a thriller is not fast paced and keeping a reader on the edge of their seat, what’s the point? It’s like decaffeinated coffee or non-alcoholic beer – why?
The second fatal mistake is to become bogged down in technical or political hocus pocus (Tom Clancy – why not just sit for a couple hours with an edition of Jane’s fighting ships?).
The third fatal error by an author of a thriller is to play up the cheese to made-for-TV-melodrama levels. When a book is so pretentious that with some subtle wordsmithing you could turn a script for a guy action film into a chick flik with interchangeable actors, then the pretense meter has pegged and it’s time to go do something else.
And so I was a little skeptical when I was invited to read The Diaries of Pontius Pilate. My skepticism was completely unfounded. First of all, it is not slow, the author opens with an exciting scene and never lets up. There is some religious / political / corporate shenanigans going on, but it is all relevant to the action and storyline. There is a touch of CSI cheese thrown in, but not enough to deteriorate from a first rate book. This is at its heart a Christian thriller and the plot revolves around a discovery of the diaries of Pontius Pilate and how this affects both believers and non-believers.
Fans of Frank Peretti and the Left Behind series would probably enjoy this book. Surprisingly this was by a new author, so good news is that these books will only get better.
The first fatal mistake of a book labeling itself a thriller is to be plodding and slow. If a thriller is not fast paced and keeping a reader on the edge of their seat, what’s the point? It’s like decaffeinated coffee or non-alcoholic beer – why?
The second fatal mistake is to become bogged down in technical or political hocus pocus (Tom Clancy – why not just sit for a couple hours with an edition of Jane’s fighting ships?).
The third fatal error by an author of a thriller is to play up the cheese to made-for-TV-melodrama levels. When a book is so pretentious that with some subtle wordsmithing you could turn a script for a guy action film into a chick flik with interchangeable actors, then the pretense meter has pegged and it’s time to go do something else.
And so I was a little skeptical when I was invited to read The Diaries of Pontius Pilate. My skepticism was completely unfounded. First of all, it is not slow, the author opens with an exciting scene and never lets up. There is some religious / political / corporate shenanigans going on, but it is all relevant to the action and storyline. There is a touch of CSI cheese thrown in, but not enough to deteriorate from a first rate book. This is at its heart a Christian thriller and the plot revolves around a discovery of the diaries of Pontius Pilate and how this affects both believers and non-believers.
Fans of Frank Peretti and the Left Behind series would probably enjoy this book. Surprisingly this was by a new author, so good news is that these books will only get better.
March 22, 2019
Okay, I wrote it so . . .
January 27, 2013
Briliant debut novel by Joseph Max Lewis. A mixture of a secret society, special Christian ops team, Christian artifacts proving the divinity of Jesus, two humble archeologists, a cat and mouse game to save/destroy the artifacts and the Gospel message interspersed throughout.
Lewis has obviously done his research into the background of how a special ops works and this is well done here. The idea of having a special ops team who are Christian is a new concept for Christian fiction. A few other authors have done this, but mainly that the main character is a Christian in a conventional ops team. In Lewis's novel, the ops team are all Christian and their motive for existing is to take a stand for Christ and defending who He is and what Christianity stands for, hence they are in their element in rescuing the two main characters, who despite not being Christian, have the artefacts that prove the Divinity of Christ.
Lewis has included a conversion account of one of the main characters. This is great as a witness to those reading this novel who don't have a relationship with Jesus, but I found it happened just a little too fast and easy after the events immediately preceding the character accepting Jesus. I would have preferred the author to have outlined the need for accepting Jesus in a bit more detail showing how the events this character has been through has highlighted their need for Christ. However this was not a distraction or weakness in the plot or pace of the novel.
I loved the account of Pontius Pilate's journey to find the truth behind Jesus' death and resurrection. This was a brilliant piece of writing and very touching. It definitely added credibility to the whole plot and the reason why the enemy special ops are so determined to find and destroy at all costs the copper scrolls containing the diaries of Pontius Pilate and his journey to the Truth.
There definitely has to be a sequel and I understand from the author this is in the works!! Cannot wait for this.
You cannot put this down. There is action, adventure, suspense, and the plot flows at a pace that keeps it hard to put down and when you do, you come back for more.
Lewis has the qualities of a talented writer and a love for God to continue with Christian fiction and being a vessel for God to use this media to show who He is and that He truly does desire to draw all men unto Himself through what He has achieved on the Cross for all mankind.
This is a very worthy read and highly recommended. An author to follow and support.
Lewis has obviously done his research into the background of how a special ops works and this is well done here. The idea of having a special ops team who are Christian is a new concept for Christian fiction. A few other authors have done this, but mainly that the main character is a Christian in a conventional ops team. In Lewis's novel, the ops team are all Christian and their motive for existing is to take a stand for Christ and defending who He is and what Christianity stands for, hence they are in their element in rescuing the two main characters, who despite not being Christian, have the artefacts that prove the Divinity of Christ.
Lewis has included a conversion account of one of the main characters. This is great as a witness to those reading this novel who don't have a relationship with Jesus, but I found it happened just a little too fast and easy after the events immediately preceding the character accepting Jesus. I would have preferred the author to have outlined the need for accepting Jesus in a bit more detail showing how the events this character has been through has highlighted their need for Christ. However this was not a distraction or weakness in the plot or pace of the novel.
I loved the account of Pontius Pilate's journey to find the truth behind Jesus' death and resurrection. This was a brilliant piece of writing and very touching. It definitely added credibility to the whole plot and the reason why the enemy special ops are so determined to find and destroy at all costs the copper scrolls containing the diaries of Pontius Pilate and his journey to the Truth.
There definitely has to be a sequel and I understand from the author this is in the works!! Cannot wait for this.
You cannot put this down. There is action, adventure, suspense, and the plot flows at a pace that keeps it hard to put down and when you do, you come back for more.
Lewis has the qualities of a talented writer and a love for God to continue with Christian fiction and being a vessel for God to use this media to show who He is and that He truly does desire to draw all men unto Himself through what He has achieved on the Cross for all mankind.
This is a very worthy read and highly recommended. An author to follow and support.
June 1, 2013
In this fast passed Christian thriller, an archeological team finds ancient relics that are apparently connected to Pontius Pilate and the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Almost immediately, there are murders and waring factions trying to capture these relics and all those connected with this historical find. The archeological team of Kevin and Jill immediately find themselves in a chase to save the relics while they are being pursued around the world. "The Society" seems to have followers in every walk of society who are willing to do anything to destroy everything and everyone involved in this find. The only helpers to protect Kevin, Jill and their find, are a group of Christians calling themselves "The Essentials", and the prayers of Christians seeking "truth". Thus this Global battle of good and evil begins.
Author Joseph Max Lewis, was in the Special Ops and definitely shows his knowledge of getting into and out of extremely difficult situations that add many thrills to this story line. Hopefully, this is the first in a series depicting the battle for human souls in our world.
THOUGH GOODREADS SAYS THIS IS NOT AVAILABLE AT BARNES &NOBLE, IT IS AVAILABLE IN NOOK BOOKS, AS WELL AS ON KINDLE!!!!
Author Joseph Max Lewis, was in the Special Ops and definitely shows his knowledge of getting into and out of extremely difficult situations that add many thrills to this story line. Hopefully, this is the first in a series depicting the battle for human souls in our world.
THOUGH GOODREADS SAYS THIS IS NOT AVAILABLE AT BARNES &NOBLE, IT IS AVAILABLE IN NOOK BOOKS, AS WELL AS ON KINDLE!!!!
April 15, 2013
WOW! When I started this book I was not sure if I would finish it or not! It was recommended to me by the author. For that reason I wanted to finish it out of respect for the writer who I do not know and honestly have never heard of. Which does not mean much for I am sure there are a lot I have never heard of. Yes I am rambling! Anyway about a third of the way through it got very good and I did not want to put it down. The reason I was having such trouble is I am use to books where the characters are speaking for most of the story and and you get caught up in there lives and in this one there was so much narative. Things being explained instead of interaction between characters. That made it hard to focus. This is one I would have lisened to. Good old audio! Yes! I would recommend this to others for its a story although fiction carries truth. That is what draws me to Dekkers work. I look forward to reading another of Joseph Max Lewis books Another thing that kept me going was the mystery. Trying to figure out who and why!
September 9, 2014
The author found one of my other reviews that I posted on Goodreads.com and suggested I take a look at his book. I had never heard of Joseph Max Lewis before and didn't have the first clue as to what type of author he is or what he writes about. I won't just read any book not wanting to put junk in and always caution myself when it comes to books with religion involved. So, I did my research and decided to give it a try. Man am I glad I did.
First of all, JML has proven to me he is not you average "Indiana Jones genre" writer. There are a ton of authors out there that all write about the same things in this genre and frankly...it's old and boring. But what the author of this book decided to write on is quite clever. I won't go into detail because I have a lot of respect for Max and don't want to spoil things for the reader.
This book is very enjoyable for everyone who reads it, regardless of whether or not you are a Christian. I consider myself to be a conspiracy theorist and believe that there are things going on behind the curtains that most Americans are completely unaware of. I'm not some nut like Alex Jones or Jesse Ventura...but being ignorant and ignoring things living a peachy life avoiding everything that threatens it is living in bliss...and ignorance isn't bliss my friends. This book opened my eyes to me that there very well could be something going on behind the curtains. I of course already knew this...but the subjects in the book inspired me to do more research and digging.
Christianity is under attack from all directions and this book does a good job illustrating what most of us already know. The struggles the characters go through in this book reflect that.
This book is super exciting and fun. This book's excitement reminded me of Shawn Hopkins The Solomon Key. The action is non-stop. This is a great first book for Max and I encourage him to keep going. Not only is his writing inspiring and fun, but it's a good witness tool. He doesn't shy back on what needs to be said. His writing style reminds me of Brad Thor and Alex Berenson, who don't shy away from rough subjects and just say what they believe in. I personally appreciate this a ton since freedom of speech is under attack.
So if you like Indiana Jones with a little bit of Jack Bauer...then this is the book for you. Even if you're not a Christian...take the time to read it. Great job Max. Please keep up the good work and protect the truth!!!
First of all, JML has proven to me he is not you average "Indiana Jones genre" writer. There are a ton of authors out there that all write about the same things in this genre and frankly...it's old and boring. But what the author of this book decided to write on is quite clever. I won't go into detail because I have a lot of respect for Max and don't want to spoil things for the reader.
This book is very enjoyable for everyone who reads it, regardless of whether or not you are a Christian. I consider myself to be a conspiracy theorist and believe that there are things going on behind the curtains that most Americans are completely unaware of. I'm not some nut like Alex Jones or Jesse Ventura...but being ignorant and ignoring things living a peachy life avoiding everything that threatens it is living in bliss...and ignorance isn't bliss my friends. This book opened my eyes to me that there very well could be something going on behind the curtains. I of course already knew this...but the subjects in the book inspired me to do more research and digging.
Christianity is under attack from all directions and this book does a good job illustrating what most of us already know. The struggles the characters go through in this book reflect that.
This book is super exciting and fun. This book's excitement reminded me of Shawn Hopkins The Solomon Key. The action is non-stop. This is a great first book for Max and I encourage him to keep going. Not only is his writing inspiring and fun, but it's a good witness tool. He doesn't shy back on what needs to be said. His writing style reminds me of Brad Thor and Alex Berenson, who don't shy away from rough subjects and just say what they believe in. I personally appreciate this a ton since freedom of speech is under attack.
So if you like Indiana Jones with a little bit of Jack Bauer...then this is the book for you. Even if you're not a Christian...take the time to read it. Great job Max. Please keep up the good work and protect the truth!!!
March 13, 2020
Think Indiana Jones with a mixture of Dan Brown’s Robert Langdon and you have Dr. Kevin Elliot and Dr. Jill Gates. Elliott and Gates are archaeologists on a dig near the Dead Sea. Their historical find puts them and their team in danger!
What is this find and why is it so important that two opposing societies come out of the woodwork? One society wants the archaeologists and everyone associated with them dead and the artifacts destroyed, while the other society wants to protect them and tell the world about the find.
Lewis takes the reader on a roller coaster ride after Elliot’s and Gates’ team members and the Israeli police who were sent to protect them are killed. Running from the shores of the Dead Sea with the only living police officer, Moshe, the two are dependent upon him to get them out of the country.
Trust no one! Tell no one! Do what you have to do to stay alive!
What is this find and why is it so important that two opposing societies come out of the woodwork? One society wants the archaeologists and everyone associated with them dead and the artifacts destroyed, while the other society wants to protect them and tell the world about the find.
Lewis takes the reader on a roller coaster ride after Elliot’s and Gates’ team members and the Israeli police who were sent to protect them are killed. Running from the shores of the Dead Sea with the only living police officer, Moshe, the two are dependent upon him to get them out of the country.
Trust no one! Tell no one! Do what you have to do to stay alive!
August 8, 2013
Imagine if there was proof that Jesus really was the Son of God, who actually rose from the dead? Now imagine it was documented by Pontius Pilate himself? What would society do to hide the truth? In this story, we meet some archaeologists who run into that exact problem. They are victimized by The Society, a ruthless group that goes back untold years, who will do anything to keep the truth supressed.
I will admit the author suggested I give this a read, havinseen my review of anoer book here on Goodreads. I had to purchase it myself, so this was not a 'read and review for free' chance. I did promise an honest review to him.
I enjoyed his book. It flowed very well, with good characters who you felt for. Their world was crumbling around them, and they had no idea why or what for. As the story progressed, they developed an idea of why, but were unable to stop things from happening. They met people who assisted them and helped fight The Society, and helped them understand their faith and self worth along the way.
I was impressed at the sheer number of wrinkles the author put in the story. However, the drawback to keeping everyone guessing how crazier things can get is a sudden ending. I liked how the story kept unfolding, but was a bit let down at the abruptness of the end.
Other than hat, I am glad I was introduced to this book, and would recommend it to anyone who wants a good story that is not your typical 'run of the mill' whodunnit. It was a pleasant surprise, and I look forward to reading more from Mr Lewis.
I will admit the author suggested I give this a read, havinseen my review of anoer book here on Goodreads. I had to purchase it myself, so this was not a 'read and review for free' chance. I did promise an honest review to him.
I enjoyed his book. It flowed very well, with good characters who you felt for. Their world was crumbling around them, and they had no idea why or what for. As the story progressed, they developed an idea of why, but were unable to stop things from happening. They met people who assisted them and helped fight The Society, and helped them understand their faith and self worth along the way.
I was impressed at the sheer number of wrinkles the author put in the story. However, the drawback to keeping everyone guessing how crazier things can get is a sudden ending. I liked how the story kept unfolding, but was a bit let down at the abruptness of the end.
Other than hat, I am glad I was introduced to this book, and would recommend it to anyone who wants a good story that is not your typical 'run of the mill' whodunnit. It was a pleasant surprise, and I look forward to reading more from Mr Lewis.
June 25, 2013
I bought this book after the author reached out to me here. All in all, I think this story had a lot of unrealized potential. I'm a huge fan of political thrillers and the idea that Pontius Pilate conducted an investigation and buried evidence really spoke to me. I'd love for this to actually be a discovery!
I felt that most of the characters were under-developed and in some cases not realistic. The romance between Kevin & Jill felt contrived and totally unnecessary. I have to say that I was disappointed in most of the female characters in this book. I'm hoping that future books in this series do a better job with character development. Give us a reason to get behind your protagonist. Don't just take the easy and obvious plot lines.
That all said, I did enjoy the book. It's an easy read and I can see folks taking it on vacation as their summer reading material. Some of my friends have also purchased this book. I'm interested in hearing their assessments too!
I felt that most of the characters were under-developed and in some cases not realistic. The romance between Kevin & Jill felt contrived and totally unnecessary. I have to say that I was disappointed in most of the female characters in this book. I'm hoping that future books in this series do a better job with character development. Give us a reason to get behind your protagonist. Don't just take the easy and obvious plot lines.
That all said, I did enjoy the book. It's an easy read and I can see folks taking it on vacation as their summer reading material. Some of my friends have also purchased this book. I'm interested in hearing their assessments too!
August 30, 2013
Disclosure-The author contacted me after reading some of my reviews and asked me to purchase his book, as he thought I would enjoy it. That being said, he didn't give the book to me, I purchased it on Kindle, so this isn't a review I was paid to give. THANK YOU, MR. LEWIS!!!! I surely enjoyed this.
It had the conspiracy/military elements of David Baldacci, Ted Dekker, and Michael Crichton, nonstop intrigue and action, multidimensional like Frank Perreti's early works, and was extremely well written. There was even romance.
The opening passages intrigued me, and never let me go.
A caveat, however. If you can't enjoy a book that isn't filled with gratuitous profanity and vulgarity, you'll miss that here. For me, that's a big plus.
Seriously, my only real complaint was that it seemed to rush to a conclusion, tying things up a little too neatly and quickly at the end to set up for a sequel. However, I do hope there is a sequel, and soon.
It had the conspiracy/military elements of David Baldacci, Ted Dekker, and Michael Crichton, nonstop intrigue and action, multidimensional like Frank Perreti's early works, and was extremely well written. There was even romance.
The opening passages intrigued me, and never let me go.
A caveat, however. If you can't enjoy a book that isn't filled with gratuitous profanity and vulgarity, you'll miss that here. For me, that's a big plus.
Seriously, my only real complaint was that it seemed to rush to a conclusion, tying things up a little too neatly and quickly at the end to set up for a sequel. However, I do hope there is a sequel, and soon.
Read
December 6, 2013Ok, so I am new to this good read thing. I get a message from The author Joseph on good reads. I figure ok the book was like $2.99. I love to read Christian fiction books, the price was right to try a new author. I can tell you I was not disappointed. One of my favorite authors is Joel Rosenberg, this book reminded of one of his books. The Diaries of Pontius Pilate was a well written book, the theme of the book flowed together. There is a lot of action, in the book, clean language and a lot of unexpected twist. When it comes to scripture, I know it is fiction, but the author was pretty solid in what you could see in scripture. If I had to critic anything about the book, it would be the ending. I would of like to seen a little more, action and resolution in the ending. But it was not bad, because the author left the story with the possibility of a sequel. I hope he writes a sequel to this book because I would absolutely buy it.
Over all I feel I found another favorite author.
Over all I feel I found another favorite author.
July 6, 2013
I'm glad I finished this book...my wife kept asking me if I would go to bed or keep reading. This was a great read. I'm thankful that the author indicates this is the first book in a series. Now he and his publisher just need to get it published.
May 28, 2013
Joel Rosenberg is one of my favorite authors, but I can honestly say Joseph Max Lewis is now on my most popular list with his political thriller - "The Diaries of Pontius Pilate."
In the wake of a bloody trail of murders archeologists Kevin Elliot and his assistant Jill Gates flee from their dig in the Israeli desert. In two rucksacks they carry a remarkable discovery; twenty copper scrolls engraved with the testimony of Pontius Pilate after his criminal investigation into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While their find will bolster Christians' faith,it unleashes the dark hatred of a nefarious, and ancient organization called the "Society" who wants to destroy not only the evidence, but anyone connected to it. Needing to preserve the scrolls and wanting to expose the malicious conspirators that threaten their lives Kevin and Jill continually escape the Society's web, unknowingly aided by the Fellowship of the Essentials under the joint leadership of a Catholic Cardinal and televangelist. Into this political and action-packed nail-biter add a romance that will wipe away Kevin Elliot's haunted past.
The characters are as believable as they are memorable. I liked Kevin and Jill's open mindedness, determination and dedication. Even the Chairman with his evil single-mindedness and dark sense of self-preservation was realistic in its eeriness.
In this plot war is waged between good and evil not only for priceless artifacts but for the souls of men. I highly recommend this riveting thriller and can't wait to read Joseph Max Lewis's next book.
In the wake of a bloody trail of murders archeologists Kevin Elliot and his assistant Jill Gates flee from their dig in the Israeli desert. In two rucksacks they carry a remarkable discovery; twenty copper scrolls engraved with the testimony of Pontius Pilate after his criminal investigation into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While their find will bolster Christians' faith,it unleashes the dark hatred of a nefarious, and ancient organization called the "Society" who wants to destroy not only the evidence, but anyone connected to it. Needing to preserve the scrolls and wanting to expose the malicious conspirators that threaten their lives Kevin and Jill continually escape the Society's web, unknowingly aided by the Fellowship of the Essentials under the joint leadership of a Catholic Cardinal and televangelist. Into this political and action-packed nail-biter add a romance that will wipe away Kevin Elliot's haunted past.
The characters are as believable as they are memorable. I liked Kevin and Jill's open mindedness, determination and dedication. Even the Chairman with his evil single-mindedness and dark sense of self-preservation was realistic in its eeriness.
In this plot war is waged between good and evil not only for priceless artifacts but for the souls of men. I highly recommend this riveting thriller and can't wait to read Joseph Max Lewis's next book.
July 10, 2013
Try to skip two pages and you'll miss couple of twists of actions and many dead bodies.... It's hard to write about it without spoilers.
So below - just general (personal) observations.
Fast paced, with action jumping from one place to another...only after reading, when you start breathing again, you'll start thinking how little you know about characters...Well ...running for your life it's not the best time to get into deep knowledge of your fellows runners...but I agree with the author that it is the very best time to get into deep affection and trust...The romance starting from almost nothing and ending with marriage? Possible? Yes! Two people who tries to control their feelings for a long time, while those feelings grow, while the respect for each other grows and trying to save each other life - all this can come to such a culmination as it did in the book.
I wish we know the characters better, but the stage is set, the battle won by good guys, now it's time to get closer look on the war parties...
The Society... pretty bold picture - but KGB and its eqivalents in other communist countries were very real.
The Felloship - Oh, how I wish for it! All together and putting the differences aside, while keeping eyes on The One
I want more! Joe, When will we get book number two????
So below - just general (personal) observations.
Fast paced, with action jumping from one place to another...only after reading, when you start breathing again, you'll start thinking how little you know about characters...Well ...running for your life it's not the best time to get into deep knowledge of your fellows runners...but I agree with the author that it is the very best time to get into deep affection and trust...The romance starting from almost nothing and ending with marriage? Possible? Yes! Two people who tries to control their feelings for a long time, while those feelings grow, while the respect for each other grows and trying to save each other life - all this can come to such a culmination as it did in the book.
I wish we know the characters better, but the stage is set, the battle won by good guys, now it's time to get closer look on the war parties...
The Society... pretty bold picture - but KGB and its eqivalents in other communist countries were very real.
The Felloship - Oh, how I wish for it! All together and putting the differences aside, while keeping eyes on The One
I want more! Joe, When will we get book number two????
January 18, 2016
I've discovered that when buying novels with religious themes, it's often difficult to know in which direction the author will go with the story. Some authors present an overtly religious message with a lack of a cohesive plot. Others focus more on creating an exciting plot and whatever religious message they want to tell gets lost within the character development and the action of the story. Joseph Lewis found the perfect middle ground by writing a story that captures the reader's attention while still relaying the central messages he intended to bring out through the words and actions of the characters. Part adventure, part thriller, and part conspiracy theory, "The Diaries of Pontius Pilate" kept me up late at night because I didn't want to go to bed before finding out what happened next. This novel is not only entertaining, it should also get the reader to think about their own beliefs and what is happening in our world today.
July 17, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel! I had a hard time putting it down once I started reading it. It was a fast-paced believable story. Certainly, forces of evil would be out to disprove Christ as the Messiah if scrolls and other authentic relics like these came to light.
Obviously, the author was acquainted with military operations. It made for some exciting reading.
The relationship between Kevin and Jill seemed to tie itself up a bit too neatly in the end, but it is a novel...
I am thrilled with the clarity shown in what a Christian believes and the hope he has in God. Very well done! Looking forward to more great books from this author!
Obviously, the author was acquainted with military operations. It made for some exciting reading.
The relationship between Kevin and Jill seemed to tie itself up a bit too neatly in the end, but it is a novel...
I am thrilled with the clarity shown in what a Christian believes and the hope he has in God. Very well done! Looking forward to more great books from this author!
July 28, 2013
I've always thought a great idea for a novel would be taking a biblical Narrative and pulling it into present day, leaving out the typical “Christianeeze” and making it fun, real, and smart… Joseph Max Lewis has nailed it with “The Diaries Of Pontius Pilate”. Thoroughly enjoyed this book, Joseph’s training with the Special Forces/experience I believe made this this book a very believable and fast-paced. Definitely caused me to lose a bit of sleep… Looking forward to the next release.
Would make a great movie!
Would make a great movie!
December 1, 2013
Archaeologists have discovered copper scrolls detailing Pontius Pilate's investigation of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. One secret society wants to destroy this information, another wants to save it and make it publicly known. Plenty of action, interesting and engaging characters, well-written and clever story, a good twisty conspiracy theory. I really enjoyed this, Christian based, but not preachy. Although one character's conversion to Christianity is rather abrupt, it's believable in light of what she had recently been through.
April 9, 2014
I read a ton of Christian Fiction but didn't have very high expectations just because this was a first full length novel by this author. I was wrong! This is a great book! It is full of action from the word go and I can't wait for the next one. The author has also done something different with his protagonist team that I have not seen before but I really like. I would recommend this book for anyone but especially fans of Christian Fiction.
April 20, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced and held my attention. I even found myself reading it this morning after getting home from a 12 hour work night. (It is always a sign of a good read if I forego my much needed sleep just to find out what happens in the next chapter.) This would be a great vacation/airplane book.
April 19, 2013
Because I enjoy Ted Dekker's books I was contacted by this author to read this book. At the beginning of the book I was a little confused but as I continued to read I quickly sorted out the characters that had confused me. I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the intrigue. However, I did not care for the ending. I feel as though I have no closure with the storyline and characters.
November 19, 2013
Love love love this book! I read a lot of Christian Fiction and Archeology Thrillers are among my favorites. This book has it all. Great plot, action, suspense, romance, and the Gospel. Can't wait for the sequel. If you like Joel Rosenberg or Tim Lahaye's Michael Murphy series you will like this book. I couldn't put it down. Im anxiously waiting for the sequel!!
December 24, 2019
The author emailed me a recommendation comparing this to The Twelfth Imam, I'm glad he did, it's well worth the read, I can see this following in the tradition of The Left Behind series as the characters get under your skin.
June 25, 2013
Really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one. Great story line - I read it in two days because I couldn't put it down! Will definitely recommend it to my friends who enjoy Joel Rosenberg.
Read
June 6, 2015Intense and exciting
I love it when an author is so skilled in our language that he or she can spin a an intensely captivating story without resorting to vulgarity, profanity, and illicit sex. Thanks, Joe, for a great read!
I love it when an author is so skilled in our language that he or she can spin a an intensely captivating story without resorting to vulgarity, profanity, and illicit sex. Thanks, Joe, for a great read!
July 28, 2015
An excellent read with a nice mixture of religious storytelling mix with tradecraft, travel and adventure.
It was awesome to have values driven characters, personal redemptions and a dynamic struggle with evil.
Good read!
It was awesome to have values driven characters, personal redemptions and a dynamic struggle with evil.
Good read!
December 27, 2015
Truly a story worth read! This is an amazing story that is intriguing and keeps you hooked in the story. A great thriller that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys authors such as Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, Mark Greaney and Kyle Mills. Hats off of Joe Lewis!!
March 29, 2013
This book grabs your attention and holds it until the very end. It is fast paced, interesting, and thought provoking.
November 14, 2013
Enjoyed it a lot. Well researched, very good plot. Looking forward to the #2.
July 3, 2015
wonderful book! suspenseful, well written. characters came to life on the pages and I never could guess what would happen next! great story by a talented author!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews