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I Wanted To Give Him A Voice
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir looks at Pilate’s family life, childhood, military and political careers, how he ended up in the crucial role of Jesus’s crucifixion, and what life was like after. What inspired you to tell this story?
For one of the central figures in the crucifixion story, little was known about the man Pontius Pilate. He was recalled to Rome after an incident involving rebels in a small village in Judea, but beyond that, little was known about him. My intent was to give this historical figure flesh and bones. To give him a loving family life beyond the military. To have him torn between staying at home or fighting another battle for Rome or expanding Rome’s territory. Most importantly, I wanted to give him a voice, not to vilify but to understand him and the need for him to be there at the Praetorium to wash his hands, because had he let Jesus go, scripture prophesy would not have been fulfilled.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
Readers have told me they were surprised at the depth of Pilate’s character that I portrayed, making him a man with feelings of love, kindness, and empathy, and that I depicted ancient Roman life so accurately and fully. I was most surprised when a producer of note told me she was moved to tears by the ending of the story.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
Pablo has several more books that have been published and as many that have not yet been published. He keeps writing, so I keep falling behind in editing his manuscripts. We expect to submit another book soon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Pilate’s roots ran deep in the Italian countryside, and as he aged, he yearned more and more for home and family, for vineyards and barley fields, and for the laughter of children. His beloved wife Claudia had a gift of discernment, an ability to forecast events and outcomes. When Pilate became governor of Judea, a loathsome assignment to him, he took Claudia with him. What transpired from then on was life-changing for both of them.
Pontius Pilate was the unwilling participant in the crucifixion of Jesus, so regretful of his act that he washed his hands over and over again. As American playwright Arthur Miller once said, “Maybe all one can do is hope to end up with the right regrets.”
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir by Pablo Zaragoza is a captivating journey into historical fiction, tracing the intriguing life of Pontius Pilate and his lineage, from his humble beginnings to his end. In this meticulously rendered narrative, Zaragoza expertly navigates the tides of Pilate’s existence, illuminating his Roman citizenship, his ascension within the military, and the growth of his family lineage.
The novel provides a compelling exploration of Pilate’s transformation, encapsulating his rise from a mere boy to a celebrated soldier, earning the admiration and respect of Rome through his gallant efforts in battle. The tale takes an intriguing twist as Pilate matures, revealing a test of his unwavering loyalty to Rome when appointed as Judea’s procurator.
Immersed in the critical turning point of Jesus’s fate, the book masterfully depicts the circumstances leading up to Jesus’s crucifixion. It eloquently presents the political and religious undercurrents that characterized the era, as well as Pilate’s crucial role in this narrative.
Zaragoza’s storytelling prowess is evident throughout the book. He skillfully resuscitates this biblical and historical narrative, offering a fresh perspective on the well-documented crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The novel’s prose is crisp and compelling, drawing readers into Pilate’s world and fostering a unique connection.
Zaragoza’s remarkable research skills are fully displayed in this narrative, lending a well-rounded understanding of the Roman Empire’s history and culture. The author’s narrative finesse transforms a potentially austere subject into an enthralling tale brimming with war, politics, power, religion, and the unavoidable bloodshed that marked Rome’s expansive legacy.
In this riveting tale, Zaragoza subtly yet effectively captures the evolution of Pilate’s character, his moral compass, and his nuanced views on Rome’s governance. Zaragoza’s adeptness in emotionally engaging the reader is exemplary, providing a gripping experience from the opening to the closing lines. The novel expertly balances an engrossing narrative with a profound examination of the historical context.
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir presents an insightful and enjoyable reading experience. Zaragoza’s novel is both a rewarding delve into historical exploration and an expertly crafted tale that proves to be a standout addition to the historical fiction genre.
Pages: 404 | ASIN : B09W431MZY
Peyton’s Promise
When Peyton arrived at Calumet Castle for a summer job, she had only a vague idea of what to expect. She knew of her wealthy employers and that her progressive ideas and choice of career made her a target for the social circles but little else. It came as a huge shock to find herself working alongside her childhood best friend, Patrick, and in turn, they were both shocked at how much their three-year absence from each other had changed them. Rekindling her relationship with Patrick, navigating new feelings for him, rediscovering her faith, trying not to anger the staunchly old-fashioned housekeeper of the castle, and doing her actual job give Peyton a busy and conflicted summer to contend with.
Peyton’s Promise is the third novel by Susan Mathis in her Thousand Island Gilded Age Series. Set in the Thousand Islands, on the St. Lawrence river, these stories take the setting and make it a palpable part of the story being told. Peyton’s Promise is no exception, describing the sights and homes of the area with beautiful depth and recreating what it might have been like in the early years of the 20th century when the area was a popular destination for many of the wealthy elite in society.
Mathis is adept at weaving historical figures into her fiction and has done so in this story with the Emerys. Calumet Castle’s owners function as the mostly absent champions of Peyton’s work, an upholsterer beyond her apprenticeship. Mathis always includes a brief note to explain the real history she has included, with details about the families, their homes, and more about the area.
Peyton’s Promise has a similar feeling to the other Thousand Island stories. Readers will find enjoyment and take comfort in returning to the beloved landscape and having the experience of revisiting a favorite vacation location. The storyline moves quickly with an internally conflicted heroine, a love interest that seems too much at odds to ever succeed, and a rival antagonist that seems on the cusp of bringing disaster more than once. This book is truly wonderful and difficult to put down! The pacing has readers engaged from start to finish. Additionally, the amount of detail included about the Islands is just enough to encourage some further research. They are perfect for a light read for those that love a Christian historical romance novel.
Pages: 291 | ASIN : B09N6J5X6M
LITERARY TITAN 