Steven Rage has created an alternate world, The Harbor. There are vampires, drug lords, dealers, and assorted folk who use language that will shock you and stop you in your tracks. This is a retelling of the Passion, but...Pilate is a vampire drug lord. A young woman Immanuel is the Christ in this incarnation of the Passion. The story goes from brutal to brilliant to magestic and it is an amazing read.

Is this book for everyone? No.

This book will make you think. In a way it reminded me of Kazanzakis' The Last Temptation of Christ because I would fume while reading that book, then be blown away with the book. You must THINK. Sometimes books think for us. This book lets you experience it and then sort it out. You will run the gamut of emotions and by the incredible ending of Pilate, you will be spent.

Rage's treatment of Pilate is amazing. No matter that the Christ is portrayed as a woman, or as He was before, the story and message is just as strong, powerful, and violent. And the triumph is with you to your core.

I loved this book. But be warned.

I have never read a book with such palpable violence. The world Steven Rage created in The Harbor is a scary one. No matter the world, there are some that can triumph and transcend.

Just know, when you are thinking of reading Pilate A Brutal Bible Tale, brace yourself for one WILD ride.

I will read the next 'Harborside' series Jonah Job. Rage is an author to watch...

ellen george

Pilate A Brutal Bible Tale by Steven Rage, ISBN: 978-4327-1797-1, Outskirts Press, review by ellen george