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The Gospel of Pilate
For two thousand years, the name of Pontius Pilate has been remembered with vile contempt. Cursed by countless generations for his one fateful decision, this otherwise obscure Roman bureaucrat has been forever damned in the eyes of history.
Now, however, a subway construction project under the streets of modern Rome has inadvertently uncovered the archeological find of the millennium. Inside a long forgotten chamber beneath the ruins of Nero’s Golden House, a confidential report to Emperor Tiberius has been discovered that could turn all of history on its head.
In this fast-paced, action-packed, historical thriller, archeologist Dr. Thomas Lampton and his girlfriend, Victoria Alberghetti, will have their relationship tested, and their comfortable world turned upside down as a result of this astonishing find. After translating the ancient scrolls, Thomas uncovers the story — behind the story — of the most famous trial in history. A lifelong skeptic, reading the eyewitness account of the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, from Pontius Pilate’s perspective, throws everything he thought he once knew into chaos. It also puts he and Victoria’s lives in jeopardy.
Men will kill to acquire these priceless documents. Powerful forces will stop at nothing to keep their explosive secrets hidden. Because now, after centuries of silence, Pontius Pilate will finally have his say. His answer to the most important question ever asked, what is truth, will shake the world to its very foundations.
Now, however, a subway construction project under the streets of modern Rome has inadvertently uncovered the archeological find of the millennium. Inside a long forgotten chamber beneath the ruins of Nero’s Golden House, a confidential report to Emperor Tiberius has been discovered that could turn all of history on its head.
In this fast-paced, action-packed, historical thriller, archeologist Dr. Thomas Lampton and his girlfriend, Victoria Alberghetti, will have their relationship tested, and their comfortable world turned upside down as a result of this astonishing find. After translating the ancient scrolls, Thomas uncovers the story — behind the story — of the most famous trial in history. A lifelong skeptic, reading the eyewitness account of the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, from Pontius Pilate’s perspective, throws everything he thought he once knew into chaos. It also puts he and Victoria’s lives in jeopardy.
Men will kill to acquire these priceless documents. Powerful forces will stop at nothing to keep their explosive secrets hidden. Because now, after centuries of silence, Pontius Pilate will finally have his say. His answer to the most important question ever asked, what is truth, will shake the world to its very foundations.
618 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2016
641 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
About the author
Paul E. Creasy
3 books28 followers Paul Creasy was born in Radford, Virginia, the only child of Victor (Gene) and Marla Creasy. He grew up in the small town of Bluefield, West Virginia before moving to Richmond, Virginia where he graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University.
He continues to reside in Richmond today, with his lovely wife Mary and their rambunctious puppy Truffle. Apart from writing, Paul enjoys old horror movies, obscure documentaries, new books, Christian apologetics, ballroom dancing with his wife, and traveling extensively.
Further information can be found at www.paulcreasy.com
He continues to reside in Richmond today, with his lovely wife Mary and their rambunctious puppy Truffle. Apart from writing, Paul enjoys old horror movies, obscure documentaries, new books, Christian apologetics, ballroom dancing with his wife, and traveling extensively.
Further information can be found at www.paulcreasy.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
November 14, 2017
November 11, 2017
A Review by Anthony T. Riggio, of the book The Gospel of Pilate by Paul E. Creasy
I purchased this book in the Kindle format in September 2017 and from the description, I thought I would enjoy this book albeit, a work of fiction. Like many of the books I purchase on Kindle, I waited some time before I read it. Coincidentally, I was studying the Gospel of John in Bible study at Saint Rita Church and I felt that perhaps it would be incongruous to read this novel at the same time. I was so wrong. It was perfectly fitting and it followed the Bible version I was reading perfectly. There were several deviations from the Gospel script but nothing contradictory to John's message.
The author did a masterful job in weaving the Pilate Gospel message into a compelling work of fiction in this outstanding novel. I thought this work was better than Dan Brown's “DaVinci Code”. There was nothing so off base as to scandalize any Christian, literate in scripture. Creasy wove the events in Pilates experiences in the conflict he had with the Sanhedrin over the events involving the story of Jesus Christ's trial and passion. There were some license taken regarding the guarding of the tomb where Jesus was laid to rest but it was to capture and draw the reader into this compelling work.
Paul Creasy, a very talented story teller and an excellent writer draws the reader into a couple of sub plots including the time of Pilate and current times when a amphora vessel was discovered during the construction of a subway line being dug underneath the location of the ruins of Nero. This discovery could have been ruinous for the subway builder if the department of antiquities were to be advised of this significant finding and it proved to be “a true” finding of events depicting a report by Puntuis Pilate to Emperor Tiberius of the trial of Jesus Christ and the skulduggery of the Sanhedrin in the prosecution of Jesus.
Knowledge of the discovery of the finding by an unscrupulous collector of antiquities provides another dimension of greed. His associates are basically criminals who have no idea of the value of the scroll's purportedly written by Puntuis Pilate and a trail of heinous crime are committed in their pursuit of the scrolls.
Contemporaneously, the hired archaeologist working for the subway builder becomes a hunted murderer and his life is interacted by his lover who is the sister of a Catholic priest and friend of an influential Cardinal in Rome.
The complexity of sub plots is a most compelling part of this great novel and the reader has little time to take a breath and rest because of the fast pace of this work. The reader will not be disappointed for entertainment in reading this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I unhesitatingly recommend reading it especially if you love intrigue and mystery. This book is a gem that most readers will enjoy.
I gave this book five stars.
A Review by Anthony T. Riggio, of the book The Gospel of Pilate by Paul E. Creasy
I purchased this book in the Kindle format in September 2017 and from the description, I thought I would enjoy this book albeit, a work of fiction. Like many of the books I purchase on Kindle, I waited some time before I read it. Coincidentally, I was studying the Gospel of John in Bible study at Saint Rita Church and I felt that perhaps it would be incongruous to read this novel at the same time. I was so wrong. It was perfectly fitting and it followed the Bible version I was reading perfectly. There were several deviations from the Gospel script but nothing contradictory to John's message.
The author did a masterful job in weaving the Pilate Gospel message into a compelling work of fiction in this outstanding novel. I thought this work was better than Dan Brown's “DaVinci Code”. There was nothing so off base as to scandalize any Christian, literate in scripture. Creasy wove the events in Pilates experiences in the conflict he had with the Sanhedrin over the events involving the story of Jesus Christ's trial and passion. There were some license taken regarding the guarding of the tomb where Jesus was laid to rest but it was to capture and draw the reader into this compelling work.
Paul Creasy, a very talented story teller and an excellent writer draws the reader into a couple of sub plots including the time of Pilate and current times when a amphora vessel was discovered during the construction of a subway line being dug underneath the location of the ruins of Nero. This discovery could have been ruinous for the subway builder if the department of antiquities were to be advised of this significant finding and it proved to be “a true” finding of events depicting a report by Puntuis Pilate to Emperor Tiberius of the trial of Jesus Christ and the skulduggery of the Sanhedrin in the prosecution of Jesus.
Knowledge of the discovery of the finding by an unscrupulous collector of antiquities provides another dimension of greed. His associates are basically criminals who have no idea of the value of the scroll's purportedly written by Puntuis Pilate and a trail of heinous crime are committed in their pursuit of the scrolls.
Contemporaneously, the hired archaeologist working for the subway builder becomes a hunted murderer and his life is interacted by his lover who is the sister of a Catholic priest and friend of an influential Cardinal in Rome.
The complexity of sub plots is a most compelling part of this great novel and the reader has little time to take a breath and rest because of the fast pace of this work. The reader will not be disappointed for entertainment in reading this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I unhesitatingly recommend reading it especially if you love intrigue and mystery. This book is a gem that most readers will enjoy.
I gave this book five stars.
Read
February 17, 2019This is a truly fantastic book. I was not only impressed by the author's ability to tell a good story, but to interweave actual history into the story he told. I loved both the depiction of the ancient world and the happenings in the modern era.
My problem with most books of fiction that feature Pilate, is that the author either takes the sympathetic route and makes him out to be a poor, misunderstood fool, or conversely, blames him for everything. It was nice to see an author go somewhere down the middle and show that Pilate could and did, obviously, think about his own affairs and how his decisions would work for or against him, but also to show that he may have been startled by the reactions (or lack thereof) of Jesus when he encountered him.
This is a good, long read, perfect for a weekend when the weather has you trapped in the house. I definitely think there needs to be a sequel here. I know I would queue up to get my hands on a copy. I can't recommend this book enough. As a biblical historian/textual analyst, I tend to be rather jaded when it comes to fiction about this subject, but this book not only impressed me, it made me laugh, made me cry at one point, (something I thought I was over long ago,) and more importantly, made me think.
Loved it.
My problem with most books of fiction that feature Pilate, is that the author either takes the sympathetic route and makes him out to be a poor, misunderstood fool, or conversely, blames him for everything. It was nice to see an author go somewhere down the middle and show that Pilate could and did, obviously, think about his own affairs and how his decisions would work for or against him, but also to show that he may have been startled by the reactions (or lack thereof) of Jesus when he encountered him.
This is a good, long read, perfect for a weekend when the weather has you trapped in the house. I definitely think there needs to be a sequel here. I know I would queue up to get my hands on a copy. I can't recommend this book enough. As a biblical historian/textual analyst, I tend to be rather jaded when it comes to fiction about this subject, but this book not only impressed me, it made me laugh, made me cry at one point, (something I thought I was over long ago,) and more importantly, made me think.
Loved it.
April 9, 2018
Two stories going on at the same time.
-As the book indicates, Holy Week from Pilate's perspective. LOVED this part. Puts the Bible story in its Roman context, revealing how the Jews and their practices appeared to the heathen culture.
-Archaeological "thriller"
Then there was the Completely unexpected Examination and assessment of atheism point by point, logically. Very nicely incorporated into the storyline.
This is definitely done from a Roman Catholic perspective. There are details and characters from their teachings, but not enough to be distracting. I am not RC, but I noticed.
I accidentally read this during Holy Week which made the week more thoughtful for me. It had my attention right up until the wrapping up of all the loose ends from the two storylines. It seemed to take just a chapter or two to abruptly end. That is why it lost a star.I would read this again!
-As the book indicates, Holy Week from Pilate's perspective. LOVED this part. Puts the Bible story in its Roman context, revealing how the Jews and their practices appeared to the heathen culture.
-Archaeological "thriller"
Then there was the Completely unexpected Examination and assessment of atheism point by point, logically. Very nicely incorporated into the storyline.
This is definitely done from a Roman Catholic perspective. There are details and characters from their teachings, but not enough to be distracting. I am not RC, but I noticed.
I accidentally read this during Holy Week which made the week more thoughtful for me. It had my attention right up until the wrapping up of all the loose ends from the two storylines. It seemed to take just a chapter or two to abruptly end. That is why it lost a star.I would read this again!
July 30, 2021
A bit preachy at times, when it reads like the author is using the plot to expound on theological ideas that come from C. S. Lewis, and has a few small historical inaccuracies and characters with speech that's not appropriate for the culture or the time, but it's entertaining if you're in the mood for this type of story.
February 22, 2019
Ah rely on faith alone!
Even though this was a book of fiction, based on actual events concerning Jesus, Pilate, etc it's a good read.
Even though this was a book of fiction, based on actual events concerning Jesus, Pilate, etc it's a good read.
January 10, 2018
Fascinating read!
This historical fiction has it all - mystery, intrigue, romance - and it appeared to be more historical than fictional. There is so much in this book that the reader has to pause from time to time to consider and process what is being said.
This historical fiction has it all - mystery, intrigue, romance - and it appeared to be more historical than fictional. There is so much in this book that the reader has to pause from time to time to consider and process what is being said.
October 31, 2017
I have just finished one of the most faith-affirming fiction books I ever read. It should actually be considered a semi-fictional account as it is pretty much a true account of the life and death of Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God. The author has come up with a very believable discovery of ancient scrolls containing Pontius Pilate's account of the trial and Crucifixion of Jesus. It made the story feel so true ,as it is, because he describes the reason for Jesus having brought the wrath of the local high priest down on Himself through the jealousy and fear of that priest. I felt as if I walked the path of Jesus Crucifixion along with Him. The experience was incredibly awful yet demonstrative of something only a true God could endure with the faith and peace that Jesus did. Jesus accepted that this had to be done for the sins of man to be forgiven and the description was heartbreaking. I have been raised in the Catholic faith and went through a Catholic education from Kindergarten all the way through A Catholic University, all said, about 17 years of Catholic study. However, after all that I still was faced with certain questions and doubts about the nature of my faith and God. I believe that we naturally experience doubts as to why things are a certain way and why some evil things occur if there is a loving God overseeing everything. In this story , these questions have been answered in a most believable and understanding way. I was amazed that the fictional atheist Thomas asked questions that I myself would have asked of a devout priest if I had the chance. Those very questions were answered in such a learned and obviously well thought-out manner that I no longer doubt my faith ! This may seem trivial but if you are questioning the way suffering and evil exists in the world and whether the universe was the result of a well planned theme, read this book and it just might answer those questions for you. I know that I am keeping this book and going over certain parts again , because the questions I had have been so beautifully explained that I want to learn those answers so I can respond to others who ask those questions and reaffirm to myself the existence of a loving God! As I am now 60 years old and never had the satisfactory answers I desired, I am sure that this book was meant to be read by me so I may now believe freely and without the terrible doubts and questions that have previously afflicted my faith in the nature and existence of the One , True God. I thank Mr. Creasy for writing this beautiful account of the universal questions that trouble any searchers of the Truth.
December 29, 2018
Love it. It is a great page turner. Very good writer kept me on my seat
Great job keep up the good work. I will read more of he work. It was so good this good of really hsppened
Great job keep up the good work. I will read more of he work. It was so good this good of really hsppened
October 24, 2017
Amazing!
This book was absolutely engrossing from the beginning! The details, the dual time points that worked so well together! Even the ending left one satisfied! It was not all cloak and dagger, Indiana Jones, there were some rather humorous spots that really added to the moment. The theological discussion between Thomas and Father Dominic was one I found to be very deep and well considered, not something I would expect to find in an adventure type book.
The viewpoint from Pilate was also stunning. It does give a slightly different perspective to this historically reviled person. It does make you stop and wonder about those intimately involved in the scourging and crucifixion of Christ. It also brought a couple of points that I have often wondered about to "life" such as that Lucifer's goading and attempts to tempt Jesus did not begin and end in the time we know of as the "Temptation".
The only reason I did not give this five stars is a few misspellings, and off typeset and some synonym issues. These things tend to grab my eye and pull me out of the story rather jarring. A good proofreader would have prevented that jolt back to the real world. That said, I still recommend this book and will look for more for this author myself.
This book was absolutely engrossing from the beginning! The details, the dual time points that worked so well together! Even the ending left one satisfied! It was not all cloak and dagger, Indiana Jones, there were some rather humorous spots that really added to the moment. The theological discussion between Thomas and Father Dominic was one I found to be very deep and well considered, not something I would expect to find in an adventure type book.
The viewpoint from Pilate was also stunning. It does give a slightly different perspective to this historically reviled person. It does make you stop and wonder about those intimately involved in the scourging and crucifixion of Christ. It also brought a couple of points that I have often wondered about to "life" such as that Lucifer's goading and attempts to tempt Jesus did not begin and end in the time we know of as the "Temptation".
The only reason I did not give this five stars is a few misspellings, and off typeset and some synonym issues. These things tend to grab my eye and pull me out of the story rather jarring. A good proofreader would have prevented that jolt back to the real world. That said, I still recommend this book and will look for more for this author myself.
March 3, 2019
Excellent Read
This is a dual storyline book. One story tells the story of the trials and subsequent crucifixion of Christ. Pontius Pilate's reaction to his culpability in the death of the Messiah. The other story takes place in modern Rome where a somewhat nefarious archeologists works for a construction company who is excavating under the city of Rome below the known line of ancient times. During excavation, an camphor is uncovered and the archeologist is asked to remove it from the site, otherwise the site will be shut down by the Dept. of Antiquities perhaps for years. There is a mole in the construction company who advises his benefactor that something was found and removed from the site. The remainder of that storyline follows the path of the amphora and what is done to procure it by the benefactor, up to and including murder (although technically not by his direction).
The two storylines are quite different, but with a common outcome. Both storylines on their own were very interesting but together showed different manners in coming to Christ.
I found it to be an excellent read and would highly recommend it.
This is a dual storyline book. One story tells the story of the trials and subsequent crucifixion of Christ. Pontius Pilate's reaction to his culpability in the death of the Messiah. The other story takes place in modern Rome where a somewhat nefarious archeologists works for a construction company who is excavating under the city of Rome below the known line of ancient times. During excavation, an camphor is uncovered and the archeologist is asked to remove it from the site, otherwise the site will be shut down by the Dept. of Antiquities perhaps for years. There is a mole in the construction company who advises his benefactor that something was found and removed from the site. The remainder of that storyline follows the path of the amphora and what is done to procure it by the benefactor, up to and including murder (although technically not by his direction).
The two storylines are quite different, but with a common outcome. Both storylines on their own were very interesting but together showed different manners in coming to Christ.
I found it to be an excellent read and would highly recommend it.
March 3, 2018
Rarely does a novel truly affect my opinions of life, especially my deep beliefs about the faults of Christianity, yet this novel gave me much to contemplate. Through extensive dialog, Creasy used rational arguments to defend religious beliefs that truly make this story unique. Once one can push through the lengthy (multiple chapters) conversation between protagonist Thomas and priest Dominic, it is quite a unique take on a religious historical fiction.
Thomas, a much flawed archaeologist, is given the chance to review scrolls found in a Nero Era amphora, so long as he keeps it a secret. Thomas discovers the scrolls are a report from Pontius Pilate to Emperor Tiberius on the events of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The novel then slits into two tales; Thomas' struggles with religion, love and an eccentric billionaire bent on stealing the scrolls, and the actual story of Pilate's report.
Pilate's report was by far my favorite side of the story. I had recently read "The Testament of Marcellus" another fictional novel about the conviction and crucifixion of Jesus and I enjoyed making comparisons between the two interpretations, really quite different. I highly recommend to any reader that enjoyed this story to read "The Testament of Macellus" by Marcus Gabriel to get another prespective.
In "The Gospel of Pilate," Pontius and wife Claudia travel to Jerusalem for the Passover festival to keep the peace. Claudia is plagued by nightmares and prophetic feelings that her husband will make history upon this journey. Before leaving Pilate is warned by the head rabbi of Jerusalem of a dangerous rebel, Jesus of Nazareth. Pilate has his men investigate and finds that Jesus is a prophetic madman, perhaps a sorcerer, but not a rebel threatening the empire.
Caiaphas the official rabbi of Jerusalem, continually harasses Pilate as Passover festivities begin. With the Roman court in turmoil Caiaphas threatens Pilate with the fact that if he allows a rebel to go unchecked, he himself could be seen as a traitor. Caiaphas holds a fake trial and convinces Pilate that he must pass final judgement. Pilate knows Jesus is innocent and his wife's nightmares plague him, but his "hand is forced."
To compare this with the "Testament of Marcellus" first Pilate has a great relationship with Claudia, while in Testament, Pilate's hostile relationship with Claudia inflames his angry drunken behavior. In Testament, protagonist Marcellus, paints Pilate as a disgusting horrible character, quite contradictory to Creasy's devoted and hard working Pilate.
Jesus is also portrayed quite differently between these novels. Marcellus in Testament, makes Jesus to be a mortal man although clearly a great prophet; to Creasy, a Christian, Jesus is holy, the son of God. I had found Marcellus' interpretation of Jesus a more realistic historical figure. Although Creasy now begins conversations between Thomas and priest, Dominic in the other half of the story and I began to realize indeed how incredible an impact Jesus had on history; putting my opinions in question.
The most compelling part of Creasy's story is the conversation between Thomas and his soon-to-be-brother in-law, the priest Dominic. Whilest reading I was exceptionally annoyed by this conversation. Atheist Thomas, tries to argue against the existence of God while Dominic refutes all of Thomas' theories. This conversation lasts chapters and is literally those two characters discussing religion with lots of repetition. I wish that Creasy had found a different way to convey all of this information because as obnoxious as the dialog was, fantastic points of religion were made and I have frequently thought of the points Dominic made, questioning my own stances in religion. Thomas becomes convinced, how could he not be? It was a struggle to get through but rewarding in its thought provoking quality most historical fiction cannot create.
Despite the compelling conversation is support of religion and Jesus as the actual son of God, Creasy included quite a bit of church corruption, and blame of the Jews in Jesus' crucifixion. Caiaphas and the practices of Jewish rabbis are quite demonized while Pilate, representative of Rome appears almost without blame. Corruption of religious institutions is a known occurrence but it seemed unfair the amount of blame placed on the Jewish community in this novel. No doubt much blame can be placed there, but to have Pilate portrayed as an innocent pawn to the will of Caiaphas and his paid "witnesses," seems unlikely.
Pilate becomes a convert even, and risks his life by preaching this to Tiberius in the end. Caiaphas' fate for killing the son of God is unknown. Creasy then creates a confusing parrelle by showing that the Vatican has the power to control almost everything as they wipe clean Thomas' slate. It is also revealed that the Vatican will hide the Gospel of Pilate from the public for centuries and yet the public for centuries and yet the newly converted Thomas has no problem with the power of this religious institution and the possible world wide corruption they could cause. This paints Creasy's personal opinion in the novel and is confusing. Boo the corruption of Ancient Jewish organized religious power but hazzah to the Vatican's ability to shape the world, for the better.
I truly enjoyed this novel in its many aspects and liked its stark differences to "Testament." Despite some lingering questions as to Creasy's choice of portrayal, it was entertaining and thought provoking. It has made me enjoy religious historical fiction and I appreciate my further developed quest for knowledge on this topic.
Thomas, a much flawed archaeologist, is given the chance to review scrolls found in a Nero Era amphora, so long as he keeps it a secret. Thomas discovers the scrolls are a report from Pontius Pilate to Emperor Tiberius on the events of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The novel then slits into two tales; Thomas' struggles with religion, love and an eccentric billionaire bent on stealing the scrolls, and the actual story of Pilate's report.
Pilate's report was by far my favorite side of the story. I had recently read "The Testament of Marcellus" another fictional novel about the conviction and crucifixion of Jesus and I enjoyed making comparisons between the two interpretations, really quite different. I highly recommend to any reader that enjoyed this story to read "The Testament of Macellus" by Marcus Gabriel to get another prespective.
In "The Gospel of Pilate," Pontius and wife Claudia travel to Jerusalem for the Passover festival to keep the peace. Claudia is plagued by nightmares and prophetic feelings that her husband will make history upon this journey. Before leaving Pilate is warned by the head rabbi of Jerusalem of a dangerous rebel, Jesus of Nazareth. Pilate has his men investigate and finds that Jesus is a prophetic madman, perhaps a sorcerer, but not a rebel threatening the empire.
Caiaphas the official rabbi of Jerusalem, continually harasses Pilate as Passover festivities begin. With the Roman court in turmoil Caiaphas threatens Pilate with the fact that if he allows a rebel to go unchecked, he himself could be seen as a traitor. Caiaphas holds a fake trial and convinces Pilate that he must pass final judgement. Pilate knows Jesus is innocent and his wife's nightmares plague him, but his "hand is forced."
To compare this with the "Testament of Marcellus" first Pilate has a great relationship with Claudia, while in Testament, Pilate's hostile relationship with Claudia inflames his angry drunken behavior. In Testament, protagonist Marcellus, paints Pilate as a disgusting horrible character, quite contradictory to Creasy's devoted and hard working Pilate.
Jesus is also portrayed quite differently between these novels. Marcellus in Testament, makes Jesus to be a mortal man although clearly a great prophet; to Creasy, a Christian, Jesus is holy, the son of God. I had found Marcellus' interpretation of Jesus a more realistic historical figure. Although Creasy now begins conversations between Thomas and priest, Dominic in the other half of the story and I began to realize indeed how incredible an impact Jesus had on history; putting my opinions in question.
The most compelling part of Creasy's story is the conversation between Thomas and his soon-to-be-brother in-law, the priest Dominic. Whilest reading I was exceptionally annoyed by this conversation. Atheist Thomas, tries to argue against the existence of God while Dominic refutes all of Thomas' theories. This conversation lasts chapters and is literally those two characters discussing religion with lots of repetition. I wish that Creasy had found a different way to convey all of this information because as obnoxious as the dialog was, fantastic points of religion were made and I have frequently thought of the points Dominic made, questioning my own stances in religion. Thomas becomes convinced, how could he not be? It was a struggle to get through but rewarding in its thought provoking quality most historical fiction cannot create.
Despite the compelling conversation is support of religion and Jesus as the actual son of God, Creasy included quite a bit of church corruption, and blame of the Jews in Jesus' crucifixion. Caiaphas and the practices of Jewish rabbis are quite demonized while Pilate, representative of Rome appears almost without blame. Corruption of religious institutions is a known occurrence but it seemed unfair the amount of blame placed on the Jewish community in this novel. No doubt much blame can be placed there, but to have Pilate portrayed as an innocent pawn to the will of Caiaphas and his paid "witnesses," seems unlikely.
Pilate becomes a convert even, and risks his life by preaching this to Tiberius in the end. Caiaphas' fate for killing the son of God is unknown. Creasy then creates a confusing parrelle by showing that the Vatican has the power to control almost everything as they wipe clean Thomas' slate. It is also revealed that the Vatican will hide the Gospel of Pilate from the public for centuries and yet the public for centuries and yet the newly converted Thomas has no problem with the power of this religious institution and the possible world wide corruption they could cause. This paints Creasy's personal opinion in the novel and is confusing. Boo the corruption of Ancient Jewish organized religious power but hazzah to the Vatican's ability to shape the world, for the better.
I truly enjoyed this novel in its many aspects and liked its stark differences to "Testament." Despite some lingering questions as to Creasy's choice of portrayal, it was entertaining and thought provoking. It has made me enjoy religious historical fiction and I appreciate my further developed quest for knowledge on this topic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2017
When I first saw this book on Amazon and read the synopsis, I was struck by how closely it resembled the plotline of my own novel on this subject, THE TESTIMONIUM. I downloaded a copy for my Kindle and after reading the first twenty or so pages, I quickly realized that Creasy had taken a basic premise similar to mine - the modern discovery of Pilate's report to Rome about the crucifixion of Jesus - and taken it in a very different direction than my own story. I might add, he did so in a very fascinating manner, and created a great story in the process!
Several things that really worked for me in this book: the apologetics arguments are sound and well-done, blending naturally into a conversation between a priest, Father Dominic, and Thomas, the atheist protagonist. Secondly, the visions of Claudia, Pilate's wife, before the trial of Jesus, are powerful and beautifully sketched, carrying with them the idea that the old gods of Rome were, on some level, real beings who saw their doom encroaching with the arrival of the new faith. The cloak-and-dagger stuff surrounding the scroll and various parties attempting to possess it is both low-key and intense at the same time. No spoilers, but the adventures definitely keep the story moving along! Really, there are two stories in one here - the discovery of the scroll and the intrigue it generates, and then the narrative of the Passion Week from Pilate's point of view. The stories alternate, chapter to chapter, and each leaves you eager to get back to the other.
A few minor criticisms - the biggest being, that the reader is never given more than a hint of what the scroll actually says! There are a few typos and grammatical errors here and there, and some Latin mistakes, but overall the readability and flow of the story overcome these minor defects. I can't wait to see what Paul Creasy comes out with next! And if you read and enjoyed this book, I might humbly recommend that you check out my own work, THE TESTIMONIUM, for a very different take on this premise!
Several things that really worked for me in this book: the apologetics arguments are sound and well-done, blending naturally into a conversation between a priest, Father Dominic, and Thomas, the atheist protagonist. Secondly, the visions of Claudia, Pilate's wife, before the trial of Jesus, are powerful and beautifully sketched, carrying with them the idea that the old gods of Rome were, on some level, real beings who saw their doom encroaching with the arrival of the new faith. The cloak-and-dagger stuff surrounding the scroll and various parties attempting to possess it is both low-key and intense at the same time. No spoilers, but the adventures definitely keep the story moving along! Really, there are two stories in one here - the discovery of the scroll and the intrigue it generates, and then the narrative of the Passion Week from Pilate's point of view. The stories alternate, chapter to chapter, and each leaves you eager to get back to the other.
A few minor criticisms - the biggest being, that the reader is never given more than a hint of what the scroll actually says! There are a few typos and grammatical errors here and there, and some Latin mistakes, but overall the readability and flow of the story overcome these minor defects. I can't wait to see what Paul Creasy comes out with next! And if you read and enjoyed this book, I might humbly recommend that you check out my own work, THE TESTIMONIUM, for a very different take on this premise!
November 4, 2019
This is a must read! The author does a great job of marrying the past when Jesus walked the earth, with modern times, showing how people and things really don't change all that much. We view the last week of the Lord's life on earth through the eyes of Pilate, his wife, and their slaves. The author has taken pains to be historically accurate too, which only makes the book better. The story also shows us some great ways to witness to others about our faith, and best of all, how to answer some of the tough questions modern atheists often have. The only negative flaw in the book is that there is a little bit of foul language in it. Because there's nothing real bad, and not much of it, it's easy to over look, but would have been better without it. I understand though that it's there to make the book closer to reality, I just prefer not to read it. Other then that it's a great story with romance, suspense, mystery, and more - in both time periods! This is a book you won't soon forget!
July 6, 2022
This is quite a long book. I read it on my Kindle, but a print copy is well over 600 pages. There are five different stories going on that are inter-related. We have Pilate, of course, and the events leading up to his momentous time in history and the ensuing results. Then there are Pilate's trusted slaves Arastarchus and Veronica, who have their own stories. The other character lines are present-day: There is Thomas, the archaeologist who comes into possession of a valuable artifact, and his employer who is a builder. There are also some unsavory characters, and a super-wealthy guy who is an atheist. A lot goes on in over 600 pages. There are times when conversations drone on too long, but otherwise, the plot moves at a fair pace. The author has constructed an interesting and believable scenario, using some true historical and Biblical facts in the story. He uses his imagination in various places, some of which I highly question. Of course, this is fiction with some fictionalized actual happening. Sometimes, the story he weaves helps open up understanding in scripture, while other times, there is too much imagination that veers into things, I believe, we should not meddle with. All in all, it is an interesting story.
August 18, 2019
An authors interpretation
What if we actually came across ancient scrolls depicting the last days of Jesus? Would anyone believe it? Would I believe it? Would it change my course of life choices? These are the circumstances Thomas must face as the construction firm he is contracted with uncovers an ancient amphora with what appears to be the ancient scrolls of Pilate. The story takes us back to the times of Jesus and the lives of the people of that ancient time. It also takes us to current times where murder, greed and the Catholic Church become involved.
I read this in a Kindle format. I was pleasantly surprised to find no editing errors, something that drives me nuts. I enjoyed the flow of the story in both time settings.
What if we actually came across ancient scrolls depicting the last days of Jesus? Would anyone believe it? Would I believe it? Would it change my course of life choices? These are the circumstances Thomas must face as the construction firm he is contracted with uncovers an ancient amphora with what appears to be the ancient scrolls of Pilate. The story takes us back to the times of Jesus and the lives of the people of that ancient time. It also takes us to current times where murder, greed and the Catholic Church become involved.
I read this in a Kindle format. I was pleasantly surprised to find no editing errors, something that drives me nuts. I enjoyed the flow of the story in both time settings.
April 24, 2018
Did not know exactly what to expect from this book and was wonderfully surprised to find it so well written. It takes place in today and in the time of Pilate. It is a mystery and a love story. The best part is the written description of the existence of God. Never before read anything like this and recommend it highly for anyone who doubts God's existence.
Author did a lot research on the time period. Well documented. The section which describes ancient Israel in the time of Christ was engrossing and the description of the crucification is difficult to read.
This book will challenge a lot of what we think we know about that era.
Author did a lot research on the time period. Well documented. The section which describes ancient Israel in the time of Christ was engrossing and the description of the crucification is difficult to read.
This book will challenge a lot of what we think we know about that era.
October 9, 2018
Unique Read and is Based on Truth
I've been a Christian all my life and by reading this book I learned so very much. As I was reading it I read Wikipedia's biography on Pontius Pilate, and despite what I was taught in church I learned he is regarded as a great man. There is a day of celebration for Pilot and his wife. Claudia, his wife, has been declared a saint by the Catholic Church. So although fiction, the Catholic Church has in its vast library portions of Pontius Pilate's report to the Emporer.
That is not a spoiler alert, there's so much more to the story. Thrilling, dangerous events, athisim, and true abiding love.
I've been a Christian all my life and by reading this book I learned so very much. As I was reading it I read Wikipedia's biography on Pontius Pilate, and despite what I was taught in church I learned he is regarded as a great man. There is a day of celebration for Pilot and his wife. Claudia, his wife, has been declared a saint by the Catholic Church. So although fiction, the Catholic Church has in its vast library portions of Pontius Pilate's report to the Emporer.
That is not a spoiler alert, there's so much more to the story. Thrilling, dangerous events, athisim, and true abiding love.
October 12, 2018
This one is a keeper. I loved the use of two time periods - the times of Pilate and Jesus and the more modern time of Thomas and Victoria. The back and forth helped hold my interest. I appreciated the debate on atheism between Fr. Dominic and Thomas but it may be a bit too involved for the average reader. I would also have appreciated a bit more of a wrap-up on Pilate after he filed his report - what happened to him and Claudia? Also what about Veronica and Aristarchus? I know this is a work of fiction so some wrap-up to tie up loose ends would have been appreciated. This was a very good description of the events of Holy Week from the Roman perspective. It was most believable with good character development. Highly recommended if you like historical fiction.
April 16, 2020
The Gospel of Pilate
What an interesting concept. Tying together two stories, one from a modern day archeologist, and one from the time of the crucifixion. There were many insights a d possibilities of both time periods. I was fascinated by the behaviors and attitudes of Pilate and his soldiers. What makes a good man do ev il things? The modern part of the story combined greedy people and people in discovery of a world of love and belief. The two stories blended so well together, I couldn't wait to go from one part to the next and back again. It was an emotional and exciting experience.
What an interesting concept. Tying together two stories, one from a modern day archeologist, and one from the time of the crucifixion. There were many insights a d possibilities of both time periods. I was fascinated by the behaviors and attitudes of Pilate and his soldiers. What makes a good man do ev il things? The modern part of the story combined greedy people and people in discovery of a world of love and belief. The two stories blended so well together, I couldn't wait to go from one part to the next and back again. It was an emotional and exciting experience.
August 30, 2018
This very suspenseful novel tells the story of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection from a different point of view and combines it with an Indiana Jones like thriller about the find of Pilate's record to Tiberius mixed with an apologetic dialogue that sums up the most important arguments but makes seem Thomas, the supposedly very intelligent archeologist, quite ignorant. Pilate, his wife Claudia and their Greek slave on the other hand are masterly crafted and seem real. The Cardinal is too good to be true and Italian society is sketched out stereotypically.
September 9, 2019
Very slow at first.
When I started reading this book, it was a tedious read. A lot of cumbersome dialogue that bog it down and made it hard to get through. Then it picks up! There are murder and a bombing of an apartment building and things start to happen. Tom Lampton, archeologists living and working in Rome, gets ahold of an amphora with historical documents inside and he puts them in a safe deposit box and then he goes to Florence for a little vacation. Little does he know that there are people who are interested in his find. This is when the story breaks into a thriller. If you can make it through the first part I think you'll find this book a good read.
When I started reading this book, it was a tedious read. A lot of cumbersome dialogue that bog it down and made it hard to get through. Then it picks up! There are murder and a bombing of an apartment building and things start to happen. Tom Lampton, archeologists living and working in Rome, gets ahold of an amphora with historical documents inside and he puts them in a safe deposit box and then he goes to Florence for a little vacation. Little does he know that there are people who are interested in his find. This is when the story breaks into a thriller. If you can make it through the first part I think you'll find this book a good read.
December 3, 2017
Pilate’s POV
This was a very intriguing and entertaining story. I liked the idea of using Pontius Pilate as the main protagonist in this fictional recreation of Christ’s death. The story telling was fast paced with few errors. My only complaint would be that it needed to be edited down by at least a few thousand words. I ended up skimming through much of the modern day dialogue without losing the plot.
This was a very intriguing and entertaining story. I liked the idea of using Pontius Pilate as the main protagonist in this fictional recreation of Christ’s death. The story telling was fast paced with few errors. My only complaint would be that it needed to be edited down by at least a few thousand words. I ended up skimming through much of the modern day dialogue without losing the plot.
August 4, 2018
Exellent!
No real surprise here on the Biblical end of the story, but lots of twists and turns in the contemporary end. All the characters are well fleshed-out and believable. I did not care for the but where satan is able to possess people and speak and operate through them, even though demonic possession is Biblical. It does personify evil, so I guess it was necessary. This has all the makings of a big-budget Hollywood blockbuster!
No real surprise here on the Biblical end of the story, but lots of twists and turns in the contemporary end. All the characters are well fleshed-out and believable. I did not care for the but where satan is able to possess people and speak and operate through them, even though demonic possession is Biblical. It does personify evil, so I guess it was necessary. This has all the makings of a big-budget Hollywood blockbuster!
July 26, 2017
Totally awesome!I was absolutely captivated by this book. You feel as if you are there in both past and present. A complete my different view of a story you already know.
Totally awesome! I was absolutely captivated by this book. You feel as if you are there in both past and present. A completely different view of a story you already know.
Totally awesome! I was absolutely captivated by this book. You feel as if you are there in both past and present. A completely different view of a story you already know.
November 11, 2017
A Great Story
I really enjoyed this book as it wove several themes and plots together. For Christians, the story may be well known but the characters are presented in a fresh way. The concept of technology and power being used and abused for self-serving purposes is only too true, sadly. Greed, murders, religion, history and love combine here in this book that transcends 2000 years. Very well written and engrossing.
I really enjoyed this book as it wove several themes and plots together. For Christians, the story may be well known but the characters are presented in a fresh way. The concept of technology and power being used and abused for self-serving purposes is only too true, sadly. Greed, murders, religion, history and love combine here in this book that transcends 2000 years. Very well written and engrossing.
October 13, 2018
Nice gospels supplement
Paul Creasy in this novel gave much color to the events of the last week of Jesus' life as presented in the Gospels. The narration was well-written, and the story line was fascinating. My only negative thought was that the exact words of Pilate's report to the Emperor was not shown in the book.
Paul Creasy in this novel gave much color to the events of the last week of Jesus' life as presented in the Gospels. The narration was well-written, and the story line was fascinating. My only negative thought was that the exact words of Pilate's report to the Emperor was not shown in the book.
March 5, 2019
Great read if you love a mystery.
I originally chose this book for its archeological mystery, however being a Christian the book was very fascinated. It brought the Resurrection story to life in a whole new way. I would high recommend this book for both believers and unbelievers in Christ.
I originally chose this book for its archeological mystery, however being a Christian the book was very fascinated. It brought the Resurrection story to life in a whole new way. I would high recommend this book for both believers and unbelievers in Christ.
March 14, 2019
Very interesting read
Very interesting read. At times it was difficult switching from the four story lines, but was worth the time spent reading. I highly recommend this interesting two major stories of present time danger and intrigue versus eye-witness accounts of the death and resurrection of Jesus. I really liked learning of the author's interest in the history of Rome.
Very interesting read. At times it was difficult switching from the four story lines, but was worth the time spent reading. I highly recommend this interesting two major stories of present time danger and intrigue versus eye-witness accounts of the death and resurrection of Jesus. I really liked learning of the author's interest in the history of Rome.
May 16, 2019
Seek and you shall find:
This is a different take on Christ's death and resurrection. Told from Pilates view it gave a different perspective on those involved. Also you are introduced to an Archeologist who finds the scrolls that tell the events from his perspective. This was a great read.
This is a different take on Christ's death and resurrection. Told from Pilates view it gave a different perspective on those involved. Also you are introduced to an Archeologist who finds the scrolls that tell the events from his perspective. This was a great read.
June 20, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It's a very clever book. It tells the story of Christ and you don't have to be religious to enjoy it as it to real evidence and gives arguments towards the truth. This is interspersed with a current day adventure which is exciting and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I loved how it was written and would read more by this author. Recommended.
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