Title: The Centurion: A Tale Of The Crucifixion
Author: Joe Mack High
Publisher: Archway Publishing
ISBN: 978-1480865488
Pages: 366
Genre: Christian Books & Bibles
Review by: Alyssa Avina
Pacific Book Review
Historical fiction is an art form that sometimes feels as though it has long since been forgotten. But novelist Joe Mack High is here to prove it is not only alive and well, but that he can put his own spin on the most classic story of mankind. Historical fiction happens to be one of my favorite genres, so I thoroughly enjoyed reading this compelling novel, The Centurion: A Tale of the Crucifixion by Joe Mack High which focuses on Cornelius, the First Centurion of the Tenth Legion under Pontius Pilate. I could not help but be enthralled more and more as the story progressed. It starts off covering two generations that precede Cornelius, spanning the story itself over three generations until it ultimately leads to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
It was evident there was plenty of well-thought-out references to the true nature of history and what it was like to be an ancient Roman legionnaire of this time. The accuracy behind this is likely to fill in historical context gaps for readers who are familiar with the story of Jesus and his crucifixion. It also is very accurate in its portrayal of the conflict between the Romans and the Jews during the time period Jesus Christ was alive. Seeing the events play out from Cornelius’ perspective once he is assigned to the Italian cohort under Pontius Pilate in Judea, brings a whole new way of seeing the story we all know so well surrounding Jesus Christ and his ultimate demise.
The author is able to balance the detailed accuracy of the historical references in this text while still adding new twists to the story of Jesus and his disciples. It is no easy feat, mind you, but he does so seamlessly which keeps the reader intrigued; waiting to find out just what is going to happen next. The honorable nature of Cornelius made him a very likable character and it will make the reader feel a kinship with the man immediately.
Whether you’re religious, a history buff, or a lover of fantastic writing with depth to its plot, this is going to be a book you will not want to miss out. Make sure to pick up your copy of The Centurion: A Tale of the Crucifixion by Joe Mack High.
