CLAUDIA, WIFE OF PONTIUS PILATE

When Claudia, the illegitimate daughter of Caesar Augustus, marries Pontius Pilate, Caesar appoints him to be prefect of the Judean territory. It's a time of turmoil, intrigue, and murder, intensified by Jesus's reputation for miraculous healings. Narrator Rebecca Gallagher captures the miraculous events and brewing unrest with textured depictions of the times. She powerfully portrays Claudia's decision to take her young son to Jesus even though Pilate forbids it; she dares to believe Jesus will heal his club foot. Gallagher's understated portrayal of the son's healing and first steps is riveting. And her portrayal of Claudia's fears when Pilate learns what she has done is perfectly rendered. Gallagher's powerful delivery captures this obscure New Testament woman. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2013]