RSM review at Barnes and Noble
Very impressive first novel
J. F. Chambers creates a big, sweeping story of international scope revealed from several different viewpoints of interesting characters that become drawn up by the events that pull them together. The plot supports itself well while serving as a vehicle for an exploration of world religions, particularly the Roman Catholic Church, and how they reconcile old writings with modern science. It is a surprisingly intellectual work, sprinkling thought-provoking quotations through the chapters with attributions to everyone from Martin Luther and Thomas Aquinas to George Washington and characters in the book.
Once a framework is established, the pace of the book accelerates into a real page-turner. Graphic descriptions of violence to establish the depth of evil that can exist makes it R-rated and unsuitable for children. Much like a Tom Clancy novel, the facts seem to be well-researched and spot on when describing something the reader is knowledgeable in and sound authoritative and instructive on details outside the reader’s realm. There are enough unanswered questions to spark good debate in a book club, while eventually providing plausible explanations for many of the surprising events described along the way.
Overall, I found it a very satisfying read as a thriller and also an effective presentation of the author’s thesis regarding the roles of science and religion. It makes me want to get to know the author and I look forward to future work from this promising newcomer.
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