Priscilla

I had been anticipating the new book Priscilla: The Life of an Early Christian by Dr. Ben Witherington III for most of the last year since I first saw it in the IVP catalog. Witherington takes his knowledge as a Professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary and spins a story surrounding the character of Priscilla in the Bible who is most often mentioned in conjunction with her husband Aquila. Through the story Priscilla is telling her story to her adopted daughter Julia who is serving as her scribe. In this narrative, Priscilla tells the behind the scenes stories of the life of early Christians. Throughout her story, Priscilla eludes to many scripture passages and events as well as historical events. Witherington uses his background in New Testament and the history of the time period not only to fill in myriad details of what actually happened. He also introduces each chapter with quotes from various primary sources of the time period and includes numerous images to illustrate the story as well. Copius footnotes are included so that readers can follow-up on interesting items.

Finishing the book, I found that I enjoyed it and recommend it to others, but I didn't love the book like I anticipated I would. The story was well-researched and interesting and having the narrative "what if" of early Christian life will send many readers back to their Bibles to re-read passages. However, the story line as told by Priscilla was not as gripping as I had hoped. It read more like a biography than as historical fiction.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Priscilla via NetGalley and purchased a copy to donate to the library where I am employed. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.