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Slow Boat to Purgatory #1

Slow Boat to Purgatory

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Gaspar De Rouse, a Templar Knight, a man murdered by his brothers for the secret he possessed, resurrected and made immortal. Given a second chance at redemption he has walked the earth for over seven-hundred years.

Dominicus Bureau, a renegade priest, torn between his vows and the secret he pursues, a secret protected by an immortal. He carries a silenced pistol and uses it. Often.

Alex Donovan, a modern day warrior thrust into an ages old war, a war between good and evil, heaven and hell. Armed with an ancient chronicle of the life of Gaspar, Alex searches for the immortal and perhaps his own destiny.

All three men, passengers on a Slow Boat To Purgatory.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 15, 2011

99 people are currently reading
1111 people want to read

About the author

Vernon Baker

7 books165 followers
Husband and father, voracious reader, and entrepreneur, Vernon finally found the courage to put soul to paper. Slow Boat to Purgatory is his first novel.

He lives with his wife and children on the coast of Maine and in the panhandle of Florida. Occasionally, when the need arises, he travels to Venice to visit an old friend...a very old friend.

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5 stars
202 (45%)
4 stars
122 (27%)
3 stars
85 (19%)
2 stars
22 (4%)
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10 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Shandra.
259 reviews87 followers
July 9, 2014
Actual rating: 4.5 stars. Any spoilers will be clearly marked.

I've waited quite some time since finishing reading this one to write this review, and yet…my words are still failing me. I hate how this happens to me when I really enjoy a book!! My worst reviews are of books I loved…

Quick recap: This story focuses on a few main characters. We have the mysterious and immortal Gaspar de Rouse. Randolph Donovan, who we meet in France in 1944, when he is a Lieutenant fighting in the war. His grandson Alex Donovan, we meet in 2010. And lastly, Dominicus Bureau, a brutal priest that pursues a truth he hasn't quite accepted to be real.

When Randolph passes away, he leaves Alex a vast amount of his belongings. The most important of all is an ancient book that lays out the story ahead. We are thrust into this early on, and the story really takes off!! The narrative is told from several different people, from various timeframes. We go from the 1600s, to 1944, to 2010. It flowed well and was not at any point disorienting. When stories are told like this, I feel like there are several different stories in one book. This just sucks me in even more!!

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I loved this book!! There was only one small issue I found with it, and that was towards the middle of the book, the pace slowed down. It wasn't terrible, or totally boring. But I kept setting the book down to do other various things. I'm easily bored in books, so this could just be me. For this, I'm deducting only 0.5 stars. The rest of the book was amazing!!! I can't tell you much more than I already have, as I do not want to spoil you. What I've said is just a wee bit more than can be gathered from reading the summary….and there's not much more one can tell. The second book is already out…which makes my heart happy!! I will sooooo be continuing this series and will be watching what Mr. Baker puts out from this point forward!!
Profile Image for Ron.
Author 2 books170 followers
November 4, 2014
Angels and demons! Run-amuck Catholic priests! Navy SEALs! Inheriting secret billions. Immortals and Templars! Immortal Templars? He only forgot the lions and tigers and bears, oh my.

The premise couldn’t get much sillier—not to mention having been done several times. But the storytelling is good. Considering this is Baker’s first novel, he shows real talent.

Parallel story lines helps keeps the reader from giving up too early. You keep hoping for better.
Now he needs to find a story worthy of it.

Three stars was a gift because this is his first.
Profile Image for Stacy Renee  (LazyDayLit).
2,777 reviews97 followers
September 1, 2014
At the reading of his grandfather's will, Alex Donovan learns that he has not only inherited his home and fortune, but also an ages old book hidden deep in the wine cellar that holds the extraordinary tale of Gaspar De Rouse, an immortal Templar with a great secret. Armed with a unique key and a bank account number, Alex sets off across the world to find out more about the enchanting story that his grandfather passed on to him. He soon finds that there is so much more to the tale, including a grand adventure tied to his own destiny.

I enjoyed this book very much. I found Gaspar's story to be incredible and well told. Alex's part in the story left me wanting more and awaiting the chance to read the next book in the series. I hardly put this book down except to sleep. It did get off to a slow start, leaving me wondering if the whole story would be able to fit into what was left, but the slow start did not make me want to leave off wherever I was. It was entirely interesting throughout and kept me reading on, eager to find out more about Gaspar and his story. The action towards the end really had me wanting more, though. For a first novel, Vernon Baker has done an amazing job. I felt myself being pulled into the tale and questioning my own existence as I read. I hope to read 'The Arimathean' soon so I can continue this wonderful tale.

I want to thank the author for the personally signed copy of this book that I won for free through Goodreads 'First-reads' giveaways in exchange for an honest review. This book has won a special place on my favorites shelf.
Profile Image for David Beem.
Author 8 books285 followers
September 2, 2011
Vernon Baker lands a K.O. on his first try. Slow Boat will answer questions you didn't know you had about Angels and Demons, Heaven and Hell and the realm of the Boatman in between.
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,012 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2011
Slow Boat to Purgatory by Vernon Baker

Synopsis

Gaspar De Rouse, an immortal Knight Templar, a man murdered by his brothers for the secret he possessed, resurrected and given a second chance at redemption.

Dominicus Bureau, a renegade priest, torn between his vows and the secret he pursues, a secret protected by an immortal.

Alex Donovan, a modern day warrior thrust into an ages old war, a war between good and evil, heaven and hell.

All three, passengers on a Slow Boat To Purgatory.



"Alex Donovan was a warrior once. Now he spends his days in a sedate and somewhat bitter existence combing Boston's used bookshops, drinking too much fine wine, and cursing a knee crippled by a terrorist's bullet.

But when Alex's grandfather dies, he discovers the old man has left him not only a vast fortune, but a mystical, ancient book which tells the story of an immortal Templar knight; a man named Gaspar de Rouse, a man who, according to his grandfather, still walks the earth.

Bewitched by the manuscript, written and illustrated by a 16th century Venetian artist who is befriended by the enigmatic Gaspar, Alex takes a journey through history that begins in the war-ravaged city of Acre in the year 1291. It is there that Gaspar is betrayed and loses his life, only to be resurrected by an Archangel and a Demon Prince. Given a choice, to spend an eternity in Purgatory or to serve both Heaven and Hell as a hunter of wayward souls, Gaspar chooses the life of an immortal marching across time doing battle with demons, angels and crushing loneliness.

The secrets of the book consume Alex and he comes to believe that Gaspar still lives. Alex's mundane world is transformed into a race to find the knight. It is a race that takes him from a quiet cove on the coast of Maine to Zurich's hidden banks and the dark waterways of Venice. Eventually helped by a warrior priest whose own secrets and quest to find the knight are shadowed in mystery, Alex struggles to distinguish between those who seek his destruction and those who would ensure his salvation."

My Review

When Alex's grandfather passes away he gets more than he bargained for at the reading of the will. Armed with a large bank account, a strange key and an ancient book Alex delves into his grandfather's past and opens the door to a world which he never knew existed. Alex is an interesting character, former military he is a man than doesn't suffer fools lightly yet here he is with a book of his grandfather's wondering if it's a fable or if the man named Gaspar could really be walking among us.
Throughout the book we are transported into the past and Gaspars memories as Alex reads through the book in the present.
Dominicus is part of a secret order of priests who are hunting down Gaspar and the secrets he is hiding, they are willing to do anything to pursue their goal. The book really starts to heat up when Alex and Dominicus meet and we are treated to a taste of what's to come in the next book.

Personally I would have liked to spend more time in the present with Alex than in the past with Gaspar. I know the author is using this book to set the scene and establish a backstory for whats to come further in the series, I just really enjoyed the end and felt the beginning was a little slow. The series has a lot of potential and I can see it becoming a hit with fans of Dan Brown, it's just not quite there for me... yet! Ask me again after book 2 :)

I would award Slow Boat to Purgatory 3.5 stars.

Reviewed on behalf of Book Monster Reviews http://bookmonsterreviews.blogspot.com/
Profile Image for Jonathan Brazee.
Author 150 books190 followers
November 26, 2013
I am giving this five stars, although if it was a stand alone book, not the first part of a larger literary effort, I would give it four. My hesitancy for an unreserved five stars has to do with the amount of epistolary voice that, while interesting, tends to bog the book down a bit, and the fact that the volume in and of itself doesn't have a clear ending. However, as volume one, the background information given works to build a good foundation for further volumes.

What i like most about the book is the author's wordsmithing. He is an excellent writer, able to convey clear ideas with all the nuances associated with real life. Several times, I had to stop and just admire the words themselves.

Characterization was excellent throughout the book. Each character had a unique voice, and I was drawn to all the main ones.

Editing was basically good. There were a few cases of incorrect word usage, and one chapter location was listed as different than what it actually was in the text of the chapter. Overall, though, editing wasn't much of an issue.

I enjoyed the overall flow of the story, and the plot caught my attention. I think the author's imagination has done him well in this effort.

One small point, and this may just be a pet peeve of mine, is that many authors seem to feel that to give a character a tough-guy image, he has to be an ex-Navy SEAL. I think I've read four books this year alone where this was the case. I think this is overdone. If it really is necessary, though, I would hope the author would actually research the SEALs. There is no such thing as a Navy "Seal," as the service is referred to in this book, unless one counts the couple that are trained in San Diego along with sea lions and dolphins to detect mines and retrieve things. The word SEAL is an acronym for Sea, Air, and Land Teams. It may seem like a small thing, but it jars me when reading and leaves me to wonder if any research was done at all.

Despite this small point, this really is an excellent effort. I look forward to reading the next volume.
Profile Image for Stanley McShane.
Author 10 books59 followers
September 21, 2014
A major first, both for the author and the series as well. Ever wondered about angels and demons? Not after you read this book, written by such authority you can take it as gospel. Mr. Baker describes heaven, hell, and purgatory in such intricate detail you'd swear he visited and took pictures. Alex Donovan inherits more from his recently departed grandfather, Randolph, than what he perceived from the reading of the will. Millions yes, but not all inherited was dollars. We are soon introduced to the world of Gaspar de Rouse, immortal, charged with safe-guarding invaluable knowledge and relics--the intrinsic fortune of which creates the battles between heaven and hell. Alex is off to figure out what the whole thing is about, fascinated with a book he found his grandfather had translated, and quickly becomes the story of the immortal of which he is to seek. The ending doesn't solve the mystery of it's location--it's a series and leaves you with more questions than answers, obviously doing exactly what this author expected. Boy does he have a way with words! Intricate characters, ancient locations, history unfolds. This was a free download and one I thoroughly enjoyed and can recommend.
Profile Image for Pete Morin.
Author 10 books135 followers
December 28, 2011
It takes a very brave - some might say reckless - novelist to attempt a story of such magnitude as this - giving life to Good and Evil in an eternal battle for our souls. Vernon Baker has done quite an impressive job at it in this riveting epic tale spanning almost a thousand years.

Imagine the task of describing a scene at the gates of Hell, where a soul lost is delivered. Or of purgatory. Or the gates of Heaven. And doing it in the voice of a man from the 13th century, or the 16th century. Baker did not shrink from that task. As far as I'm concerned, he succeeded well.

This is a fantastical tale, no doubt - but Baker is able to pull us along, disbelief suspended sufficiently to go willingly.

I do think there were signs of exhaustion slipping into the prose on occasion. Some word ghosts and repetition, a bit of slipping out of the age and such.

But they were momentary distractions.

This is a novel very much worth reading!
Profile Image for Kristjan.
588 reviews30 followers
September 12, 2016
Ok ... so I am a sucker for the highlander trope in my fiction (sue me). I really enjoyed this book. It had enough historical minutiae to appease my fascination for obscure facts and progressive revelations that had me diving ever deeper into the mysteries that surround the protagonist ... an immortal Templar protecting a secret from a hidden cabal of Vatican infiltrators while hunting souls who refuse to move on. It probably would have gone much better if the author focused more on actually completing one of the several plot lines introduced in this book. As it is, the ending totally sucked (-1 star) ... it seemed rushed, a tad disjointed and left nearly every major question unanswered. I realize that this is just the first of what looks to be a trilogy ... except it isn't. It is simply a very long winded introduction to the next book which may or may not explain anything either. If I bother to get the next book ... I will let you know how that goes.
Profile Image for Lorraine Versini.
Author 5 books21 followers
December 25, 2011
Just finished the book about 10 minutes ago. Wow. For a first novel, this is an absolutely fantastic read !

Vernon obviously has a way with words, from the beautiful prologue to the amazing storytelling, words which do not fail to completely and easily immerse you into the mesmerising world of Gaspar de Rouse.

The whole book is cleverly written, moving between the contemporary plot and the story of the diary without ever confusing the reader, and moving the spotlight from one character to another all the while setting the foundations for what sounds like a very suspenseful plot in the upcoming books.

A thoroughly recommended read, now I have to hope that the next book is going to be released soon :)
Author 1 book9 followers
November 24, 2011
Thank you for the autographed book I won through the Goodreads giveaways. This book is about an immortal. It is also about a guy who gets rich when his grandfather dies. It is an interesting imagining of what heaven, hell and purgatory are like. Unfortunately, it takes the author 182 pages to get to the point - in the mean time we bounce around from time period to time period. We start in 1944, then go to 2010 then three weeks earlier in 2010, then 1954, 1575, 1565, 2010, and 1292. This book seems like a too long epilogue to a series of books. Both of the main characters have lots of back story but no real compelling present day story to make me want to meet them again.
Profile Image for Julie.
355 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2014
What a story! I loved it. I am looking for book 2 immediately because I must see what happens next. Alex Donovan inherits a great deal from his grandfather and it turns out to be much more than simple riches. He gets a couple of books and a charm. The books tell a fantastic story and send Alex off to Switzerland in search of more clues. Angels, demons, Heaven & Hell, hitmen - you name it, it's all here.
Profile Image for Jessica Dean.
32 reviews2 followers
April 15, 2015
I was captured into this world completely

This book has me wondering,how much do we really know about things? Who is really in charge of our society? How deep does this go? Now me being a Christian, I don't personally believe in purgatory. I was intrigued and entertained by the story though.
Profile Image for Donna .
21 reviews
March 16, 2014
Great Book!!!

Great Book!!!

Loved the way the author described everything especially what Heaven would look like, if that is what it looks like---we will have a glorious life with our Lord & savior!!!!
Profile Image for Dawn.
223 reviews14 followers
June 22, 2016
Absolutism is boring. Black and white morality is dull as moldy toast. So it's not surprising that the only interesting character in the whole book is the complicated bad guy. Too bad he doesn't get complicated until the last 20%.
Profile Image for Deidra Hogan.
2 reviews1 follower
September 27, 2014
Completely unexpected good read! I honestly didn't think I would like this book because it is a bit far fetched but it takes you into a world of imagination and doesn't let go. Amazing.
37 reviews
February 22, 2014
Excellent! Angels, demons, all the things I love. Well worth the read.
2 reviews
June 6, 2023
I love historical events like this.
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?

In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.

It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.

I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...

Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:

1. Reading Exercises the Brain

While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.

2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment

Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.

3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus

We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.

4. Reading Improves Literacy

Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.

5. Reading Improves Sleep

By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.

6. Reading Increases General Knowledge

Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.

7. Reading is Motivational

By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.

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Profile Image for Erik Sapp.
529 reviews
September 25, 2019
I was not sure what to expect with this book. It sounded good, but you just never know.

Within about 2 chapters, I was hooked! The characters are not very well developed, but the story is amazing! At some point I looked down and realized I was already 60% through the book. I was torn between wanting this book to end (so I can see the end) and not wanting it to end (because I was enjoying it so much).

It lost a star for two reasons. First, as I said, the characters are not well developed. Second, it ends without answering the major questions posed. (Why is the Vatican chasing Gaston? What is the treasure he guards?)

(As an aside, the word is Navy SEAL, not Navy Seal. SEAL is an acronym for Sea, Air and Land - the environments where SEALs operate.)
Profile Image for Karunakaran N..
Author 1 book6 followers
September 11, 2017
Slow Boat to Purgatory by Vernon Baker... A walk through hell and heaven, the good and the evil... Three men of them one immortal tries to save the secret (the templar) one of the present era trying to take forward the secrets... A ride through the fantasy...
Profile Image for Geraldine R. Gaugler.
210 reviews1 follower
October 3, 2019
Pure fantasy!

White it is an action packed story, there is no truth about angels and demons contained in this book as claimed. It is pure fantasy. The author has a vivid imagination. To bad he didn't put it to better use telling a story that contained real truth.
Profile Image for Dennis Kocik.
201 reviews
December 15, 2022
Excellent story

This was a fascinating read and apparently the authors first book. Clearly an adept at esoteric knowledge and the history of the Knights Templar. I eagerly await the next book to pick up where he left off.
Profile Image for John Cionfolo.
32 reviews2 followers
July 27, 2017
Interesting premise

A little slow moving with a number of in answered questions. Would have liked to have had some of those answers before the end of book one
Profile Image for Donna.
874 reviews4 followers
November 12, 2017
Good vs Evil?

An intriguing tale of the battle between good and evil. Well written with descriptions you can almost see in your minds eye. And characters you won't soon forget.
Profile Image for Karen.
14 reviews1 follower
December 30, 2017
Wildly Inventive Story Telling

Like no other book I have read, the intrique and characters' stories drew me in. Looking forward to seeing where they will lead.
40 reviews
December 5, 2018
Purgatory

This was a very interesting book. I liked the way it traveled back and forth. I would recommend this book.
4 reviews
April 3, 2020
Great story looking forward to book 2

Is there a complete series and when is it available I'm looking forward to reading all the books great stuff
Profile Image for Kathy.
267 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2021
Slow going but caught speed near the end. Definitely want to read the 2nd book, though.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews

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