33 AD, Festus Maximus is Pilate's senior centurion in Judea. Having just crushed one revolt, Pilate must avoid more political violence and Jerusalem is overflowing with Passover pilgrims. Then the Romans and Judean leaders hear that a troublesome rabbi from the north is coming. Lauded by the poor and loathed by the powerful, Jeshua could pour oil onto smouldering embers. If they can't stop Jeshua coming, can they at least stop him inciting the mob? As if that isn't enough, Maximus must also quickly decide if a youth captured with three known rebels is also a bandit. Or will they crucify an innocent?