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Body Farm #7
The Bones of Avignon
Miranda Lovelady, Dr Bill Brockton's protégé, is spending the summer helping excavate a newly discovered chamber beneath the spectacular Palace of the Popes in Avignon, France. There she discovers a stone chest inscribed with a stunning claim: inside lie the bones of none other than Jesus of Nazareth. Faced with the case of the millennium, Miranda summons Brockton for help proving or refuting the claim. Both scientists are sceptical - after all, fake relics abounded during the Middle Ages - but the evidence for authenticity soon grows. Brockton and Miranda link the bones to the haunting image on the Shroud of Turin, revered by millions as the burial cloth of Christ and a laboratory test finds that the bones are 2,000 years old. The finding triggers a deadly tug of war between the anthropologists, the Vatican and a deadly zealot who hopes to use the bones to bring about the Second Coming ... and trigger the end of time.
Set against an international landscape, and weaving a rich tapestry of religion, history, art and science, The Bones of Avignon takes Jefferson Bass to an exciting new level of suspense.
Set against an international landscape, and weaving a rich tapestry of religion, history, art and science, The Bones of Avignon takes Jefferson Bass to an exciting new level of suspense.
360 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
300 people are currently reading
3015 people want to read
About the author
Jefferson Bass
20 books1,160 followersJefferson Bass on FACEBOOK
http://www.facebook.com/JeffersonBass...
Jon Jefferson
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Bill Bass
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Jefferson Bass is the pen name of Jon Jefferson, writer, and Dr. Bill Bass, renowned forensic anthropologist. Jefferson and Bass have collaborated on 2 nonfiction books and 6 crime novels; their 7th novel, The Inquisitor's Key, will be published in May 2012. Dr. Bass, founder of the University of Tennessee's "Body Farm," is an author on more than 200 scientific publications. Jefferson is a veteran journalist and documentary filmmaker; his two National Geographic documentaries on the Body Farm were seen around the world.
http://www.facebook.com/JeffersonBass...
Jon Jefferson
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Bill Bass
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Jefferson Bass is the pen name of Jon Jefferson, writer, and Dr. Bill Bass, renowned forensic anthropologist. Jefferson and Bass have collaborated on 2 nonfiction books and 6 crime novels; their 7th novel, The Inquisitor's Key, will be published in May 2012. Dr. Bass, founder of the University of Tennessee's "Body Farm," is an author on more than 200 scientific publications. Jefferson is a veteran journalist and documentary filmmaker; his two National Geographic documentaries on the Body Farm were seen around the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 405 reviews
July 10, 2012
This is my least favorite book in the usually good Body Farm series by Jefferson Bass. The plot is similar to both "The Da Vinci Code" and even to Kathy Reichs' superior "Cross Bones" in that the central mystery involves a skeleton that may or may not be the bones of Jesus Christ and the lengths to which some religious followers (both the Catholic Church and a fundamentalist preacher feature here) will go to ascertain the truth.
The biggest fault I found with the story is that it's boring. The chapters shift between past and present and, to be honest, the chapters set in the past during the infamous Inquisition weren't all that interesting to me. Dr. Bill Brockton, the protagonist of the other Body Farm novels is summoned to France by his research assistant, Miranda Lovelady, who is working on an archaeological dig where the bones are discovered. There is some noteworthy information about the Shroud of Turin, which is also a plot point in this book, but overall, the book didn't resonate with me.
The biggest fault I found with the story is that it's boring. The chapters shift between past and present and, to be honest, the chapters set in the past during the infamous Inquisition weren't all that interesting to me. Dr. Bill Brockton, the protagonist of the other Body Farm novels is summoned to France by his research assistant, Miranda Lovelady, who is working on an archaeological dig where the bones are discovered. There is some noteworthy information about the Shroud of Turin, which is also a plot point in this book, but overall, the book didn't resonate with me.
June 28, 2012
I may be the only person giving one star to this most recent Jefferson Bass offering. The book ostensibly is about an ossuary containing the bones of Jesus, but it deteriorates into a kind of Da Vinci Code, replete with subplots and nefarious Bad Guys. Also too many coy ("Aren't we cute?") kind of anti-religious (more specifically, anti-Catholic) wise cracks in the formulaic dialogues.
With fewer than 100 pages to go, and not giving a hoot in Hell if Miranda is rescued or not, or if Stefan murder is solved, or whose bones they really were, I slammed the book shut and returned it to the Public Library, where, I know, there is a waiting list of Jefferson Bass fans.
The book might even be a New York Times Best-Seller, but tripe is still tripe (which in my book is unfortunate, for tripe is one my favorite organ meats)!
With fewer than 100 pages to go, and not giving a hoot in Hell if Miranda is rescued or not, or if Stefan murder is solved, or whose bones they really were, I slammed the book shut and returned it to the Public Library, where, I know, there is a waiting list of Jefferson Bass fans.
The book might even be a New York Times Best-Seller, but tripe is still tripe (which in my book is unfortunate, for tripe is one my favorite organ meats)!
October 12, 2018
It's been a long time since I've read a Body Farm. I've had this one on my to read list for a mighty long time. So with the "Madonna and the Corpse," and "The Inquisitor's Key" I've really enjoyed reading these. This was a second read of Madonna, but new with the Inquisitor. Good stuff.
Featuring the Tennessee bone expert (after 2011’s The Bone Yard), an awkward blend of a conspiratorial religious thriller and a forensic procedural, Dr. Bill Brockton drops his work on a dead undercover DEA agent to rush to France after hearing that his assistant and budding love interest, Miranda Lovelady, is about to be operated on. To his surprise, and to the detriment of some plausibility, he learns on arrival that the message was a hoax to bring him to Europe to tackle the mother of all forensic anthropological exams—determining whether a skeleton is, in fact, that of Jesus Christ himself. While Brockton’s exam and his related analysis of the evidence concerning the provenance of the Shroud of Turin fascinate, a mélange of assassination attempts and hostage-taking distracts from the science. Bass is the writing team of Dr. Bill Bass, a forensic anthropologist, and journalist Jon Jefferson. Agent: Giles Anderson, Anderson Literary Agency. Recommend if you like this type of reading. I've read most of the Body Farm Books, I'd really like to go and have a tour and see what it's all about!!! Enjoy...
Featuring the Tennessee bone expert (after 2011’s The Bone Yard), an awkward blend of a conspiratorial religious thriller and a forensic procedural, Dr. Bill Brockton drops his work on a dead undercover DEA agent to rush to France after hearing that his assistant and budding love interest, Miranda Lovelady, is about to be operated on. To his surprise, and to the detriment of some plausibility, he learns on arrival that the message was a hoax to bring him to Europe to tackle the mother of all forensic anthropological exams—determining whether a skeleton is, in fact, that of Jesus Christ himself. While Brockton’s exam and his related analysis of the evidence concerning the provenance of the Shroud of Turin fascinate, a mélange of assassination attempts and hostage-taking distracts from the science. Bass is the writing team of Dr. Bill Bass, a forensic anthropologist, and journalist Jon Jefferson. Agent: Giles Anderson, Anderson Literary Agency. Recommend if you like this type of reading. I've read most of the Body Farm Books, I'd really like to go and have a tour and see what it's all about!!! Enjoy...
April 15, 2024
There is a patch of ground in Tennessee dedicated to the science of death, where human remains lie exposed to be studied for their secrets. The real-life scientist who founded the "Body Farm" has broken cold cases and revolutionized forensics . . . and now he spins an astonishing tale inspired by his own experiences.
Jefferson Bass returns with another jam-packed book, full of intrigue and a pile of historical research. While not my favourite of the series, the author did invest countless hours into developing a thoroughly entertaining book and was able to balance the ongoing character progression that keeps the series fresh and addictive. While moving the setting far outside the setting of the Body Farm, Bass successfully keeps the reader interested. Presenting both historical and scientific facts (and fallacy?) in such a way to simplify, yet not dumb down, the needed information, a reader from any academic background should be able to grasp this story, which appears to have influences from numerous others. With great twists, unexpected turns, and delightful banter, the book solidifies why Jefferson Bass is top in the field, both as writer and forensic anthropologist.
Miranda Lovelady, Dr. Bill Brockton's graduate student and protégé, is off to Europe where she is helping to excavate something with the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, France. While working there, she discovers a shocking item, that is said to hold the body of Jesus. Knowing that she will need assistance, she reaches out to Dr. Bill Brockton, though is not entirely open about her discovery. When Dr. Brockton travels from Knoxville over to Europe, he has no idea what awaits him.
When he arrives and understands better about what is going on, Dr. Brockton knows that he is in for a real conundrum. He begins his investigative work, which leads to the addition of a potential shroud that could have something to do with Jesus, all in hopes of finding the truth. Dr. Brockton’s work alongside Miranda has caught the attention of a religious zealot in North Carolina, who wants Dr. Brockton’s work to be shuttled off to him, so that he might share it with his flock.
When the truth of the discoveries comes out, Dr. Brockton and Miranda find themselves in the middle of a forensic and religious battle. After a local archeologist is found crucified, Miranda is said to be the greatest suspect and brings René Descartes onto the scene from the French National Police. Thus begins the clash between Brockton and Descartes as they both try to explain their perspectives without issue. It will take a major criminal act to help Dr. Brockton see juts how important thing are and what lengths to which Dr. Brockton will go to ensure Miranda is safe. A chilling story, full of history, that shows Bass has all the elements for a strong writer.
There is a great sense of education and entertainment in each of the novels I have read. Jefferson Bass has a great deal of knowledge to share and does so with ease, while keeping the reader in the front seat to all the action. A strong narrative guides the reader throughout the story and provides educational sidebars. Strong characters, many of whom return from book to book, provide great flavouring and development, while one-offs make their mark as well.
As mentioned above, the book was not my favourite, but it does delve into some great detail. I must say, the one sentence summary of what happened to the crazed isotope killer from Bones of Betrayal (Book 4) is a little weak, and the rest is, for the most part quite well done. Things push outside of the forensic anthropology realm and into a much deeper history lesson. I suppose, I am used to the Bass mystery where the body gives the clues to the killer and the chase is on to get him/her before it is too late.
The plot developments are quite clear cut in this short piece, leaving the reader entertained more than dazzled. A few twists appear with ease and the feels a though something is about to happen, allowing the other shoe to drop and bringing forensics back into the mix. I cannot wait to see what is to come and how Bass will keep thing on point throughout the rest of the series.
Kudos Mr. Bass, for another strong novel, full of educational moments.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Jefferson Bass returns with another jam-packed book, full of intrigue and a pile of historical research. While not my favourite of the series, the author did invest countless hours into developing a thoroughly entertaining book and was able to balance the ongoing character progression that keeps the series fresh and addictive. While moving the setting far outside the setting of the Body Farm, Bass successfully keeps the reader interested. Presenting both historical and scientific facts (and fallacy?) in such a way to simplify, yet not dumb down, the needed information, a reader from any academic background should be able to grasp this story, which appears to have influences from numerous others. With great twists, unexpected turns, and delightful banter, the book solidifies why Jefferson Bass is top in the field, both as writer and forensic anthropologist.
Miranda Lovelady, Dr. Bill Brockton's graduate student and protégé, is off to Europe where she is helping to excavate something with the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, France. While working there, she discovers a shocking item, that is said to hold the body of Jesus. Knowing that she will need assistance, she reaches out to Dr. Bill Brockton, though is not entirely open about her discovery. When Dr. Brockton travels from Knoxville over to Europe, he has no idea what awaits him.
When he arrives and understands better about what is going on, Dr. Brockton knows that he is in for a real conundrum. He begins his investigative work, which leads to the addition of a potential shroud that could have something to do with Jesus, all in hopes of finding the truth. Dr. Brockton’s work alongside Miranda has caught the attention of a religious zealot in North Carolina, who wants Dr. Brockton’s work to be shuttled off to him, so that he might share it with his flock.
When the truth of the discoveries comes out, Dr. Brockton and Miranda find themselves in the middle of a forensic and religious battle. After a local archeologist is found crucified, Miranda is said to be the greatest suspect and brings René Descartes onto the scene from the French National Police. Thus begins the clash between Brockton and Descartes as they both try to explain their perspectives without issue. It will take a major criminal act to help Dr. Brockton see juts how important thing are and what lengths to which Dr. Brockton will go to ensure Miranda is safe. A chilling story, full of history, that shows Bass has all the elements for a strong writer.
There is a great sense of education and entertainment in each of the novels I have read. Jefferson Bass has a great deal of knowledge to share and does so with ease, while keeping the reader in the front seat to all the action. A strong narrative guides the reader throughout the story and provides educational sidebars. Strong characters, many of whom return from book to book, provide great flavouring and development, while one-offs make their mark as well.
As mentioned above, the book was not my favourite, but it does delve into some great detail. I must say, the one sentence summary of what happened to the crazed isotope killer from Bones of Betrayal (Book 4) is a little weak, and the rest is, for the most part quite well done. Things push outside of the forensic anthropology realm and into a much deeper history lesson. I suppose, I am used to the Bass mystery where the body gives the clues to the killer and the chase is on to get him/her before it is too late.
The plot developments are quite clear cut in this short piece, leaving the reader entertained more than dazzled. A few twists appear with ease and the feels a though something is about to happen, allowing the other shoe to drop and bringing forensics back into the mix. I cannot wait to see what is to come and how Bass will keep thing on point throughout the rest of the series.
Kudos Mr. Bass, for another strong novel, full of educational moments.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 14, 2011
Fascinating and great fun: I'm talking about the research and writing of it (yes, I wrote it). Medieval mystery meets modern murder; think DaVinci Code, "Bones," and Girl with a Pearl Earring. The cast of medieval characters includes Petrarch, his unrequited love Laura, the Italian painters Giotto and Simone Martini, and an Inquisitor-turned-Pope. Now that it's finished, I miss them already! I hope others find it as fascinating & fun to read as I found it to write...
November 7, 2016
The Inquisitor's Key by Jefferson Bass.
I've read/listened to several in the body farm series and enjoyed them very much. I enjoyed them for their uniqueness and for the excellent story telling quality. This book was a big disappointment. I started listening to it on Cd narrated by the same person as in all the others and nothing caught my attention. I couldn't stay focused because there was nothing worth focusing on.
Sorry to say this was a big disappointment for an otherwise wonderfully special series.
I've read/listened to several in the body farm series and enjoyed them very much. I enjoyed them for their uniqueness and for the excellent story telling quality. This book was a big disappointment. I started listening to it on Cd narrated by the same person as in all the others and nothing caught my attention. I couldn't stay focused because there was nothing worth focusing on.
Sorry to say this was a big disappointment for an otherwise wonderfully special series.
Read
October 16, 2013Not interested in the historical religious settings
April 26, 2012
*Rating* 3 1/2
*Genre* Mystery
*Review*
The Inquisitor’s Key is the seventh novel in the Body Farm series. The main character of the series is Dr. Bill Brockton, renowned forensic anthropologist and founder of the Body Farm at the University of Tennessee. If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to read this series, you really should consider trying it out. If you weren’t aware that this place actually exists, they I shall correct your mistaken belief when I say that I’ve actually visited there thanks to the bi-annual visit of the Florida Gators to UT for college football.
Dr. Bill is once again asked by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for his help in identifying a body that was left behind after a botched DEA investigation into the Columbian drug trade into the US Southeast. Almost immediately, he once again finds himself in danger because the operation itself has somehow been compromised. Unfortunately, this operation causes the death of someone important to Bill, and who has been a friend of his for awhile.
Bill then receives a call in regards to the health of his all but important assistant Miranda Lovejoy. Miranda is in Avignon, France for the summer doing an excavation on a former medieval palace that once was the home to the French Popes. After a bit of misdirection, and lies about what is happening to Miranda, Bill takes off like a bat out of hell to Avignon only to learn that Miranda is fine and that she and her colleague Stefan Beauvoir may have found the discovery of a lifetime.
The book transcends time periods going back to the 14th century (1314-1328) as well as the present time. Dr. Bill is once again at the center of a major mystery after discovering that the bones that were found in Avignon by Stefan and Miranda may or may not be that of the Christ Jesus.
With the discovery of the fact that the bones are 2,000 years old, comes plenty of questions and the mystery of how they ended in in the former palace in the first place.
This story definitely has a nice historical feel to it. The writers delve into the lives of several Catholic Popes especially those like Clement the V and Benedict the VII who were behind the Inquisition and the total destruction of the Knight’s Templar’s during the early 14th century.
The mystery kept me interested in the story right until the very last page. Were the bones actually Christ Jesus, and if so, how did they end up at the Palace of the Popes? Or, were the bones actually that of Jean Eckhart who caught the ire of the White Pope during the Inquisition and was never heard from again? Sorry, no spoilage here!
Then there is the relationship between Bill and Miranda who have worked together for the past 6 years. Again, if you haven’t read this series, I absolutely encourage you to at least go to the library and borrow this book. It seems as though Miranda and Bill are growing closer than ever which is better late than never.
I want to thank the writer Jon Jefferson for providing me with a signed advanced copy of this novel. Jon I appreciate the fact that you thought about me when sharing copies of this book.
Hardcover, 352 pages
Expected publication: May 8th 2012 by William Morrow
*Genre* Mystery
*Review*
The Inquisitor’s Key is the seventh novel in the Body Farm series. The main character of the series is Dr. Bill Brockton, renowned forensic anthropologist and founder of the Body Farm at the University of Tennessee. If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to read this series, you really should consider trying it out. If you weren’t aware that this place actually exists, they I shall correct your mistaken belief when I say that I’ve actually visited there thanks to the bi-annual visit of the Florida Gators to UT for college football.
Dr. Bill is once again asked by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for his help in identifying a body that was left behind after a botched DEA investigation into the Columbian drug trade into the US Southeast. Almost immediately, he once again finds himself in danger because the operation itself has somehow been compromised. Unfortunately, this operation causes the death of someone important to Bill, and who has been a friend of his for awhile.
Bill then receives a call in regards to the health of his all but important assistant Miranda Lovejoy. Miranda is in Avignon, France for the summer doing an excavation on a former medieval palace that once was the home to the French Popes. After a bit of misdirection, and lies about what is happening to Miranda, Bill takes off like a bat out of hell to Avignon only to learn that Miranda is fine and that she and her colleague Stefan Beauvoir may have found the discovery of a lifetime.
The book transcends time periods going back to the 14th century (1314-1328) as well as the present time. Dr. Bill is once again at the center of a major mystery after discovering that the bones that were found in Avignon by Stefan and Miranda may or may not be that of the Christ Jesus.
With the discovery of the fact that the bones are 2,000 years old, comes plenty of questions and the mystery of how they ended in in the former palace in the first place.
This story definitely has a nice historical feel to it. The writers delve into the lives of several Catholic Popes especially those like Clement the V and Benedict the VII who were behind the Inquisition and the total destruction of the Knight’s Templar’s during the early 14th century.
The mystery kept me interested in the story right until the very last page. Were the bones actually Christ Jesus, and if so, how did they end up at the Palace of the Popes? Or, were the bones actually that of Jean Eckhart who caught the ire of the White Pope during the Inquisition and was never heard from again? Sorry, no spoilage here!
Then there is the relationship between Bill and Miranda who have worked together for the past 6 years. Again, if you haven’t read this series, I absolutely encourage you to at least go to the library and borrow this book. It seems as though Miranda and Bill are growing closer than ever which is better late than never.
I want to thank the writer Jon Jefferson for providing me with a signed advanced copy of this novel. Jon I appreciate the fact that you thought about me when sharing copies of this book.
Hardcover, 352 pages
Expected publication: May 8th 2012 by William Morrow
May 9, 2012
Excellent Read!!!
This book brings the Bone Detective, Dr. Bill Brockton, across the globe! He is involved in a controversial quest to determine whether the bones in France belong to none other than Jesus Christ himself. You would think that there would be a major conflict of religious organizations here, but the characters are well-balanced and used very effectively. I love this new addition to The Body Farm Novels! I know you will too! Don't miss this great book, it is a MUST read!!!
This book brings the Bone Detective, Dr. Bill Brockton, across the globe! He is involved in a controversial quest to determine whether the bones in France belong to none other than Jesus Christ himself. You would think that there would be a major conflict of religious organizations here, but the characters are well-balanced and used very effectively. I love this new addition to The Body Farm Novels! I know you will too! Don't miss this great book, it is a MUST read!!!
May 23, 2018
Another Body Farm mystery and it is the most complicated one yet. This one finds Dr. B suddenly summoned to Avignon by his young assistant Miranda who has been taken to hospital for an emergency appendectomy. When a frightened and disheveled Dr. B arrives it's only to find the whole thing is a ruse set up to keep Miranda and her French colleague's amazing find a secret. They need his help to determine whether or not the bones they've discovered in the walls of the Palace of the Popes could possibly be what would be the most remarkable find of this or any other century.
Thus begins a fast-paced mystery set in a beautiful and secretive medieval city with a cast of characters whose side you can never quite pin down. Bones, murder, betrayal slide between past and present united by fanaticism and greed in a search for the ultimate truth.
Thus begins a fast-paced mystery set in a beautiful and secretive medieval city with a cast of characters whose side you can never quite pin down. Bones, murder, betrayal slide between past and present united by fanaticism and greed in a search for the ultimate truth.
October 26, 2021
Not a favorite, takes place in France, very biblical with mysterious bones, etc.
May 3, 2015
I had been told that this series gets off to a rocky start but then got better, so after their last book, which I rather enjoyed, I had such high hopes for this one. But I was disappointed, as I have been with this series as a whole. Being written in part by the real-life founder of the anthropology research facility in Tennessee, I expected this series to be based on cases that have actually come into said facility, with a bit more dramatic flair, to make it a really interesting fictional read, but that hasn't been the case. In fact, the last book didn't even take place in the state of Tennessee, and this one doesn't even take place in the US, so I'm not sure how they are included as part of "The Body Farm Series" when they don't take place there...the author's alter-ego works there, and that appears to be incidental at best.
The plot here seems like the authors wanted to jump on the bandwagon of Dan Brown's success with historical fiction...the authors even mention "The Da Vinci Code" in the course of the book, with the protagonist being called to France to determine if bones found are that of Jesus Christ, and they even manage to include a subplot involving the Shroud of Turin.
And the fretting of the main character in previous books over the one night he spent with an unknown-to-him murderess, who subsequently became pregnant, seems to have been curtly written out of the storyline with one dismissive line: "...Isabella, with whom I'd had a brief romantic encounter, and who'd died in Japan when the tsunami struck...". No mention of her pregnancy, and no overwrought carrying on, so typical of this protagonist when it comes to women.
But one aspect of his character that is consistent is the pathetic, obsessive crush the middle-age protagonist has on his assistant (young enough to be his daughter). He exhibits jealousy and possessiveness when dealing with the French archaeologist with which his young assistant is working, which he childishly attempts to keep to himself for tours around Avignon and when dining. This creepy dynamic is beyond tiresome. I thought the protagonist might have some kind of revelation when the authors interject the history of poet Petrarch's unrequited "love" for the married Laura (which is theorized as not really love at all—since he doesn't actually know her, she is married and therefore forbidden to him, so he just follows her around town—but rather the poet's love for heartbreak), but sadly and irritatingly, no.
The chapters bounce between the present, and artists, religious figures, and events from the 1300s, but it fails to captivate...and I LOVE art historical fiction! Too bad this strays far from the authors areas of expertise, and spreads in too many directions to care. There only appears to be one more book in this series that has been published, and since I already checked it out of the library at the same time as this book, I figure I'll go ahead and read it, but if anymore are written in the future, I won't bother with them. I gave this series more than a fair shot, and it's disappointed pretty consistently.
The plot here seems like the authors wanted to jump on the bandwagon of Dan Brown's success with historical fiction...the authors even mention "The Da Vinci Code" in the course of the book, with the protagonist being called to France to determine if bones found are that of Jesus Christ, and they even manage to include a subplot involving the Shroud of Turin.
And the fretting of the main character in previous books over the one night he spent with an unknown-to-him murderess, who subsequently became pregnant, seems to have been curtly written out of the storyline with one dismissive line: "...Isabella, with whom I'd had a brief romantic encounter, and who'd died in Japan when the tsunami struck...". No mention of her pregnancy, and no overwrought carrying on, so typical of this protagonist when it comes to women.
But one aspect of his character that is consistent is the pathetic, obsessive crush the middle-age protagonist has on his assistant (young enough to be his daughter). He exhibits jealousy and possessiveness when dealing with the French archaeologist with which his young assistant is working, which he childishly attempts to keep to himself for tours around Avignon and when dining. This creepy dynamic is beyond tiresome. I thought the protagonist might have some kind of revelation when the authors interject the history of poet Petrarch's unrequited "love" for the married Laura (which is theorized as not really love at all—since he doesn't actually know her, she is married and therefore forbidden to him, so he just follows her around town—but rather the poet's love for heartbreak), but sadly and irritatingly, no.
The chapters bounce between the present, and artists, religious figures, and events from the 1300s, but it fails to captivate...and I LOVE art historical fiction! Too bad this strays far from the authors areas of expertise, and spreads in too many directions to care. There only appears to be one more book in this series that has been published, and since I already checked it out of the library at the same time as this book, I figure I'll go ahead and read it, but if anymore are written in the future, I won't bother with them. I gave this series more than a fair shot, and it's disappointed pretty consistently.
November 16, 2015
Medieval mystery meets modern-day murder, as Dr. Brockton and Miranda Lovelady investigate the discovery of ancient bones found in the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, France.
Instead of a simple phone call asking for his assistance, Miranda inveigles her associate to tell Bill Brockton, the ‘bone specialist’ and Miranda’s lecturer and mentor, that she’s in hospital with acute appendicitis. This alerts us to the fact Brockton has suppressed feelings for Miranda and despite being twenty years her senior, he experiences teen-like fantasies and jealousy about her which constantly interferes with his scientific concentration. At the opening chapter, Brockton is working on a dead undercover DEA agent, and when things start getting sinister in France, he believes he has been followed by the drug dealers trying to remove him from the picture.
The first thing Bill reveals is that these bones are of a man in his sixties, not the 33 year old Christ everyone is expecting, though when they subject the skull to computer enhancement, the face revealed bears a close resemblance to that on the Shroud of Turin – another fake, or irrefutable proof?
If you harbour pre-conceived ideas about religious fanatics, dipsomaniac Irish priests and French policeman, this book will confirm everything you ever thought. I loved Inspector DeCartes, who when asked if he is a relative of the man who said, ‘I think, therefore I am,’ quips back, ‘I think I am a relative, therefore I am.’ He also describes the ‘Lunatic Fringe’ as, ‘the fluffy edge of crazy’ - Love it!
The storyline concentrates largely on the processes of authenticating the bones, or not authenticating them, and the convoluted historical background of the alleged origins of the Shroud of Turin and a story of unrequited love between a cleric and a lady called Laura with some poetry by Yeats added to the mix.
The historical background of fourteenth century Avignon was fascinating, but it ran alongside a modern day murder/kidnap/ransom situation and I’m afraid the history slowed down the modern story to a crawl so I was tempted to skip it to get to the action.
I did enjoy this book, but I would have liked to have appreciated Fourteenth Century Avignon for its own sake rather as architecture propping up a modern day narrative.
Instead of a simple phone call asking for his assistance, Miranda inveigles her associate to tell Bill Brockton, the ‘bone specialist’ and Miranda’s lecturer and mentor, that she’s in hospital with acute appendicitis. This alerts us to the fact Brockton has suppressed feelings for Miranda and despite being twenty years her senior, he experiences teen-like fantasies and jealousy about her which constantly interferes with his scientific concentration. At the opening chapter, Brockton is working on a dead undercover DEA agent, and when things start getting sinister in France, he believes he has been followed by the drug dealers trying to remove him from the picture.
The first thing Bill reveals is that these bones are of a man in his sixties, not the 33 year old Christ everyone is expecting, though when they subject the skull to computer enhancement, the face revealed bears a close resemblance to that on the Shroud of Turin – another fake, or irrefutable proof?
If you harbour pre-conceived ideas about religious fanatics, dipsomaniac Irish priests and French policeman, this book will confirm everything you ever thought. I loved Inspector DeCartes, who when asked if he is a relative of the man who said, ‘I think, therefore I am,’ quips back, ‘I think I am a relative, therefore I am.’ He also describes the ‘Lunatic Fringe’ as, ‘the fluffy edge of crazy’ - Love it!
The storyline concentrates largely on the processes of authenticating the bones, or not authenticating them, and the convoluted historical background of the alleged origins of the Shroud of Turin and a story of unrequited love between a cleric and a lady called Laura with some poetry by Yeats added to the mix.
The historical background of fourteenth century Avignon was fascinating, but it ran alongside a modern day murder/kidnap/ransom situation and I’m afraid the history slowed down the modern story to a crawl so I was tempted to skip it to get to the action.
I did enjoy this book, but I would have liked to have appreciated Fourteenth Century Avignon for its own sake rather as architecture propping up a modern day narrative.
September 20, 2012
Perhaps I'm simply tired of religious mysteries set in the medieval period. They seem way overdone to me at this point. Maybe I got tired of hearing the main character characterize himself as an old man and chastise himself for his attraction to his younger assistant. This simply put me in mind of dirty old men and all that I find distasteful about them. Or maybe I just didn't find the mystery intriguing enough. At any rate, I had a hard time getting involved in the story until about 1/3 of the way in. At that point, the questions of what happend to Meister Eckhart and how the Shroud of Turin came about were a somewhat interesting distraction from the main story. This sidelines were all that caused me to give this book a 2 star rating. Otherwise, I would have given it 1 star. I admit I haven't read the previous books in the series. If I had, maybe I'd have been more invested in the personal relationships involved. However, since I found this book so disappointing I am not motivated to read any of the prior books in the series. If you're a fan of the Jefferson Bass team, you may enjoy this. Otherwise, I'd skip it for something you really want to read.
March 18, 2012
I know if anyone goes back and reads my reviews for my previous "Body Farm" reads, I always say that that particular book is the best of the series (until I read the next one), but I must say that The Inquisitor's Key is the Pièce de résistance of the series. This book is beyond intelligently written with loads of intrigue set in multiple eras which come together spectacularly, yet Jon Jefferson remained true to the "down to earth" character of Bill Brockton. When I heard the premise of the book, I was concerned that "down to earthness" and light sarcasm would be lost. There are few authors that I salivate waiting for their books to come out, but, like a fine dark chocolate or a fine wine, the writing duo of Jon Jefferson and William Bass are a pleasure worth waiting for. I always know I will not be disappointed and with The Inquisitor's Key...that feeling is magnified 100%.
May 10, 2012
This was the best Jefferson Bass book so far. Loved it. Avignon was a great setting and I could imagine walking the streets myself. I felt the history of the place come alive and loved the switching back and forth from the past to the present. I didn't see the Descartes thing coming lol, even though I should have after reading the prequel. Father Mike was also a bit of a surprise although I knew there was a tracker in the medal ;). I'm sad to be finished with it so soon, but as always with Jefferson Bass, Patricia Cornwell, and Nevada Barr... I can hardly bear to put them down until I've finished. :D
I bought the Kindle version.
I bought the Kindle version.
April 21, 2013
I was very disappointed in this book. The premise was ok, and I liked the parallel story telling of the past and the present. However, it took me a while to get into it, and I was unsatisfied with the ending. I was also severely upset with the convenience of how Isabella was done away with. Seriously? We don't even get her story. We don't get to find out what happened with the baby? She's just written off, almost as an afterthought. I hated that. Plus, it made me feel as though I had missed a chunk of the story, but I checked and I haven't. This is, by far, the worst in the series.
November 18, 2018
This was my first Body Farm novel and I am of two minds about it. Generally, I enjoyed the modern day sleuthing but I found the Middle Ages look-backs to be unnecessary and I'm not sure they added anything to the book. Of course, without them, the novel would have been a novella.
I enjoyed the descriptions of Avignon. The use of French with the necessary translations was skillfully handled. Generally I found the characters well-developed. Granted, there were times that Brockton's mooning over Miranda seemed trite but since I've heard male friends sound exactly like him, it was decidedly realistic.
What wasn't entirely realistic was the ending. I found that disappointing in a "been there, done that, basic plot #15" kind of way. I won't say more to avoid spoilers.
Overall, this wasn't bad and I may try another in the series.
I enjoyed the descriptions of Avignon. The use of French with the necessary translations was skillfully handled. Generally I found the characters well-developed. Granted, there were times that Brockton's mooning over Miranda seemed trite but since I've heard male friends sound exactly like him, it was decidedly realistic.
What wasn't entirely realistic was the ending. I found that disappointing in a "been there, done that, basic plot #15" kind of way. I won't say more to avoid spoilers.
Overall, this wasn't bad and I may try another in the series.
February 22, 2021
First of all: I haven't read any other book of this series. So I can't say whether or not this is a worthy part.
The first half of the book takes its time. It's not clear what the story will go to. But we do learn a lot about the characters and (very interesting) the history of the city of Avignon.
The second half is more suspenseful, more Thriller-like. We meet new dubious characters and lot more action takes place.
Maybe not a book you will remember for the rest of your life. But a good reading story.
The first half of the book takes its time. It's not clear what the story will go to. But we do learn a lot about the characters and (very interesting) the history of the city of Avignon.
The second half is more suspenseful, more Thriller-like. We meet new dubious characters and lot more action takes place.
Maybe not a book you will remember for the rest of your life. But a good reading story.
July 24, 2018
Well-written and -plotted story set in Avignon, France, with multiple mysteries to solve. There is a significant backstory set in Avignon in the 1330s and 1340s, with a lot of chapters devoted to telling the backstory. Some readers may find the number of chapters devoted to the backstory excessive (as I did near the end).
Rene Descartes, the French police inspector from the previous book (the short story), plays a prominent role in this book, but his character was a disappointment.
Brockton and Miranda may have reached a new stage in their relationship. It will be interesting to see if it was caused by circumstances or if it will continue in the later books in the series.
Rene Descartes, the French police inspector from the previous book (the short story), plays a prominent role in this book, but his character was a disappointment.
Brockton and Miranda may have reached a new stage in their relationship. It will be interesting to see if it was caused by circumstances or if it will continue in the later books in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2019
Another good book...not the usual forensics case. I loved the back and forth from present to 1300’s. Not sure how I feel about the developing relationship between Dr. B and Miranda...time will tell.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2024
My mom lended me this since I ran out of books. Dreadfully awful ending
June 5, 2023
LOVE that it is set in France, but I missed the typical murder mystery aspect that the other books have.
August 15, 2016
Clearly my absolute favorite of the series to date. I dig books with religion and this one was historically brilliant! Their title Bones of Betrayal is a second favorite. Why? The historical content is out of this world and juicy. Things I wish I knew during WWII, and makes me crave the History channel too. History is fun! I do declare, these two titles deserve a spot on my own bookshelves. We have this book in present time and past time... back and forth in Paris, France and in particular Avignon, France. Where an ossuary has been located and deemed the bones of Jesus Christ by the scripture engraved on the box. Miranda and her friend, a French archaeologist, Stefan Beauvoir find the box and want to find out for sure, if they indeed possess the bones of Christ. A rue is put in place to get Dr. Bill Brockton to France to help with the discovery and thus begins the lessons of popes, cardinals, the Knights Templar, the Shroud of Turin, the artists of that time, and multiple other historical facts. I went on line to read a few other things during this time period. Being a heretic in these times was not good nor just being linked to heresy. Burning at the stake in the public. So I started to understand the title of the book. The Inquisition: “a period of prolonged and intensive questioning or investigation. An ecclesiastical tribunal established by Pope Gregory IX circa 1232 for the suppression of heresy. It was active chiefly in northern Italy and southern France, becoming notorious for the use of torture. In 1542 the papal Inquisition was re-established to combat Protestantism, eventually becoming an organ of papal government.” Such violence during that era, thank goodness our fore fathers gave us the rights for free speech, freedom of religion and the right to bare arms. Plus other amenities. Without this declaration, all the individuals who feel they have the need to smash our United States... would be toast for speaking out. Imagine that... witch hunts and heretics grabbed at will, questioned and deemed guilty without peers in the stands hearing all the evidence. I sometimes shudder at our historical times, the atrocities that occurred and yet we can still see some the same horrors inflicted upon others whether its race, religion or sexual orientation and don’t get me started on the horrors committed against animals. Can we not learn from history, to try to not repeat some of it? So, Jacques Fournier was huge part of the story that dealt with the past. I googled him, because I was curious beyond what Jefferson Bass had included in their fictional story.
"Jacques Fournier: Benedict XII Pope Also known as Jacques Fournier Born Saverdun, France Died April 25, 1342 Avignon, France Benedict XII, (born , Saverdun, near Toulouse, Fr.—died April 25, 1342, Avignon, Provence) pope from 1334 to 1342; he was the third pontiff to reign at Avignon, where he devoted himself to reform of the church and its religious orders. In the political sphere his efforts, influenced by King Philip VI of France, were generally unsuccessful. One of his most significant failures was his inability to curb the conflict between England and France, which began during his pontificate and came to be known as the Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453). Entering the Cistercian order at Boulbonne and graduating as doctor of theology at Paris, he first became abbot of the French monastery of Fontfroide (1311), then bishop of the French diocese of Pamiers (1317), and bishop of Mirepoix (1326). He was made cardinal in December 1327. His distinction as a theologian and the zeal with which he opposed heretics recommended him to the cardinals in Avignon, who elected him (Dec. 20, 1334) to succeed John XXII. He worked to settle a controversy that had agitated the close of John’s pontificate—the controversy over the question of the Beatific Vision, a vision of God promised to the redeemed. John had preached in several sermons that this vision would be granted only after Judgment Day. Benedict ended the dispute by issuing a bull, Benedictus Deus (1336), in which he formulated the church’s teaching that the souls of the just are granted the vision immediately after death. He attempted to reform the religious orders through the imposition of stringent constitutions. These rigorous measures aroused much hostility, and most of his reforming work was undone by successors. He did not return the papacy to Rome, as the Romans, at least, had hoped he would, but he sent money for the repair of its neglected churches and for the aid of its strife-ridden populace. In Avignon he built a costly papal palace and brought in Sienese artists to decorate the local churches."
I love this series!
"Jacques Fournier: Benedict XII Pope Also known as Jacques Fournier Born Saverdun, France Died April 25, 1342 Avignon, France Benedict XII, (born , Saverdun, near Toulouse, Fr.—died April 25, 1342, Avignon, Provence) pope from 1334 to 1342; he was the third pontiff to reign at Avignon, where he devoted himself to reform of the church and its religious orders. In the political sphere his efforts, influenced by King Philip VI of France, were generally unsuccessful. One of his most significant failures was his inability to curb the conflict between England and France, which began during his pontificate and came to be known as the Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453). Entering the Cistercian order at Boulbonne and graduating as doctor of theology at Paris, he first became abbot of the French monastery of Fontfroide (1311), then bishop of the French diocese of Pamiers (1317), and bishop of Mirepoix (1326). He was made cardinal in December 1327. His distinction as a theologian and the zeal with which he opposed heretics recommended him to the cardinals in Avignon, who elected him (Dec. 20, 1334) to succeed John XXII. He worked to settle a controversy that had agitated the close of John’s pontificate—the controversy over the question of the Beatific Vision, a vision of God promised to the redeemed. John had preached in several sermons that this vision would be granted only after Judgment Day. Benedict ended the dispute by issuing a bull, Benedictus Deus (1336), in which he formulated the church’s teaching that the souls of the just are granted the vision immediately after death. He attempted to reform the religious orders through the imposition of stringent constitutions. These rigorous measures aroused much hostility, and most of his reforming work was undone by successors. He did not return the papacy to Rome, as the Romans, at least, had hoped he would, but he sent money for the repair of its neglected churches and for the aid of its strife-ridden populace. In Avignon he built a costly papal palace and brought in Sienese artists to decorate the local churches."
I love this series!
May 31, 2012
Jefferson Bass have created something special with their latest release, THE INQUISITOR’S KEY. They were already creating forensic anthropology-centered thrillers every bit as good as Kathy Reichs. Now, with this new novel, they enter into the religious, artistic and historical fiction realm of authors like Dan Brown and Iain Pears.
Jefferson Bass --- the pen-name for the writing team of Jon Jefferson and Dr. Bill Bass --- continue their Dr. Bill Brockton series with their most intense and deftly plotted novel yet. Brockton is already working on an interesting case stateside at the Body Farm when he receives a desperate call from France that his protégé, Miranda Lovelady, has been hospitalized with a burst appendix and his presence is needed at her side.
Arriving in France, Brockton is surprised to discover there is absolutely nothing wrong with Miranda and the hospitalization was just a ruse to get him there. The reason for this deception was that she was afraid to discuss the real reason for the invitation over the phone. It seems that Miranda and her French advisor, Stefan, may have come across the most important discovery of all-time --- the bones of Jesus Christ!
Brockton realizes this could be the find of the century. But are the bones discovered in a chamber beneath the Palace of the Popes in Avignon really those of Christ? Miranda and Stefan require a forensic scientist with Brockton’s expertise to justify or refute the origin of their discovery. It is not likely that these bones are authentic as the Middle Ages were renowned for faking relics like this for future treasure-seekers to find.
Making matters more interesting is the constant switching of time-lines between the present day and the 1300’s where a backdrop that includes Meister Johannes Eckhart, Pope Benedict XII and an artist known as Simone Martini is explored. The jaunts into the past make for such compelling reading you will wish Jefferson Bass had written an entire novel just about these engaging and troubled historical personalities.
As rumors of their discovery start to circulate, Brockton and his team realize they may be in danger. Their exploration also calls in the infamous Shroud of Turin --- another ancient relic long purported to be faked. Brockton starts to think that the bones and even the shroud may not belong to Christ but to Meister Eckhart! This deadly fact will anger many and threaten the deepest pockets within the Catholic Church. Things take a deadly turn when Stefan goes missing and is found crucified to death on a make-shift cross.
What follows is a break-neck paced thrill-ride in which Brockton and Miranda can trust no one and may be the target of a multi-national religious fanatic and his followers who will stop at nothing to claim the bones that were unearthed. Crosses and double-crosses are abundant as Jefferson Bass stay one step ahead of the reader right up to the stunning climax.
They will have a hard time topping this one as THE INQUISITOR’S KEY will easily go down as one of the best thrillers of 2012!
Reviewed by Ray Palen for New Mystery Reader
Jefferson Bass --- the pen-name for the writing team of Jon Jefferson and Dr. Bill Bass --- continue their Dr. Bill Brockton series with their most intense and deftly plotted novel yet. Brockton is already working on an interesting case stateside at the Body Farm when he receives a desperate call from France that his protégé, Miranda Lovelady, has been hospitalized with a burst appendix and his presence is needed at her side.
Arriving in France, Brockton is surprised to discover there is absolutely nothing wrong with Miranda and the hospitalization was just a ruse to get him there. The reason for this deception was that she was afraid to discuss the real reason for the invitation over the phone. It seems that Miranda and her French advisor, Stefan, may have come across the most important discovery of all-time --- the bones of Jesus Christ!
Brockton realizes this could be the find of the century. But are the bones discovered in a chamber beneath the Palace of the Popes in Avignon really those of Christ? Miranda and Stefan require a forensic scientist with Brockton’s expertise to justify or refute the origin of their discovery. It is not likely that these bones are authentic as the Middle Ages were renowned for faking relics like this for future treasure-seekers to find.
Making matters more interesting is the constant switching of time-lines between the present day and the 1300’s where a backdrop that includes Meister Johannes Eckhart, Pope Benedict XII and an artist known as Simone Martini is explored. The jaunts into the past make for such compelling reading you will wish Jefferson Bass had written an entire novel just about these engaging and troubled historical personalities.
As rumors of their discovery start to circulate, Brockton and his team realize they may be in danger. Their exploration also calls in the infamous Shroud of Turin --- another ancient relic long purported to be faked. Brockton starts to think that the bones and even the shroud may not belong to Christ but to Meister Eckhart! This deadly fact will anger many and threaten the deepest pockets within the Catholic Church. Things take a deadly turn when Stefan goes missing and is found crucified to death on a make-shift cross.
What follows is a break-neck paced thrill-ride in which Brockton and Miranda can trust no one and may be the target of a multi-national religious fanatic and his followers who will stop at nothing to claim the bones that were unearthed. Crosses and double-crosses are abundant as Jefferson Bass stay one step ahead of the reader right up to the stunning climax.
They will have a hard time topping this one as THE INQUISITOR’S KEY will easily go down as one of the best thrillers of 2012!
Reviewed by Ray Palen for New Mystery Reader
July 8, 2019
Desta vez, o Dr. Bill Brockton e Miranda passam a sua aventura em França, perdidos num imbróglio de um mistério da História, quando se deparam com o que aponta tratar-se do esqueleto de Jesus Cristo...
Achei uma história bastante interessante e gostei de como o Dr. B se portou por França, com as amizades que fez. Só fiquei sem saber que pensar sobre ele e Miranda, parecem mais próximos que nunca e não sei se gosto disso...
Achei uma história bastante interessante e gostei de como o Dr. B se portou por França, com as amizades que fez. Só fiquei sem saber que pensar sobre ele e Miranda, parecem mais próximos que nunca e não sei se gosto disso...
May 14, 2012
The Inquisitor's Key provides an interesting plot and a climactic ending, but may contain a few too many details for some readers.
The Inquisitor's Key is a Body Farm novel, meaning it's part of a series about the Body Farm, the human-decomposition research facility at the University of Tennessee. However, after the initial scene, which really had nothing at all to do with this book, we don't return to the Body Farm.
Dr. Bill Brockton, a renowned forensic anthropologist, is summoned to Avignon, France, by his protégé, Miranda, who is supposedly having an emergency appendectomy. It turns out this is false, and Miranda and her associate have found a stone box with very old bones. The box is labeled that it contains Jesus of Nazareth.
Brockton begins the detailed process of determining just how old the bones are and whether they are indeed the bones of Christ. This includes investigating the Shroud of Turin and its origins. The book flashes back to the 1300s, which was a period of time when the Popes lived in Avignon, not Rome. So as we are following Brockton's investigation, we are getting the real story of how these bones came to be where they are. It's a fascinating look at the corruption and greed of the Catholic church.
It's all very interesting, but I found it a bit detailed. The book really drags in the middle, during the investigation. There's danger, there's murder and kidnapping, and lots of mystery. But it just wasn't enough action to balance the historical details. The ending left my heart pounding, as I did really care about Miranda and Dr. Bill, and it was quite exciting.
I'm still recommending The Inquisitor's Key to historical fiction/mystery fans (which I am) so, I honestly loved this book. I just wanted to warn those that are in it for the mystery more than the history, that The Inquisitor's Key might be more history than you want.
"Jefferson Bass" is really two people, Dr. Bill Bass who founded the the Body Farm, and Jon Jefferson. They include notes at the end explaining which parts of the novel are based in truth.
The Inquisitor's Key is a Body Farm novel, meaning it's part of a series about the Body Farm, the human-decomposition research facility at the University of Tennessee. However, after the initial scene, which really had nothing at all to do with this book, we don't return to the Body Farm.
Dr. Bill Brockton, a renowned forensic anthropologist, is summoned to Avignon, France, by his protégé, Miranda, who is supposedly having an emergency appendectomy. It turns out this is false, and Miranda and her associate have found a stone box with very old bones. The box is labeled that it contains Jesus of Nazareth.
Brockton begins the detailed process of determining just how old the bones are and whether they are indeed the bones of Christ. This includes investigating the Shroud of Turin and its origins. The book flashes back to the 1300s, which was a period of time when the Popes lived in Avignon, not Rome. So as we are following Brockton's investigation, we are getting the real story of how these bones came to be where they are. It's a fascinating look at the corruption and greed of the Catholic church.
It's all very interesting, but I found it a bit detailed. The book really drags in the middle, during the investigation. There's danger, there's murder and kidnapping, and lots of mystery. But it just wasn't enough action to balance the historical details. The ending left my heart pounding, as I did really care about Miranda and Dr. Bill, and it was quite exciting.
I'm still recommending The Inquisitor's Key to historical fiction/mystery fans (which I am) so, I honestly loved this book. I just wanted to warn those that are in it for the mystery more than the history, that The Inquisitor's Key might be more history than you want.
"Jefferson Bass" is really two people, Dr. Bill Bass who founded the the Body Farm, and Jon Jefferson. They include notes at the end explaining which parts of the novel are based in truth.
October 26, 2017
So disappointing compared to the other one I read of his. Maybe it stems from my disliking books that end up investigating in international places. I do not mind a story if that is the home base other than the U.S, but and even though I do read some of these and find them okay, they are not my "cup of tea." and I usually avoid them. I just did not find the subject here at all interesting and maybe it is just my mindset these days of growing weary of the mediocre, maybe it was audio and my mind is wandering with so much going on at this time, but even the cool cover with the pretty key was not enough to keep my attention and I slogged my way through it; At the same time I pushed to get it over with my mind wandering.
May 30, 2014
Dr. Bill Brockton’s assistant Miranda is spending the summer doing some forensic bone work in Avignon, France. Dr. Brockton’s feelings for Miranda have been becoming a little more personal than professional, so when he receives a call that she has fallen ill and is hospitalized in France he jumps on the next plane. Turns out its all a ruse used to get him to Avignon without anyone knowing (overhearing) the real reason. Miranda takes him to a “find” in the Palace of Popes which may or may not be the basis behind the Shroud of Tourin and may or may not be the actual bones of Jesus Christ. Whether they are or not … someone believes they are and want those bones … at all costs.
The three books that I have read in this series have all had parallel story lines, one in the present and one in the past. I guess when you are writing about a forensic anthropologist there has to be something that happened in the past. In this book it goes way, way into the past, the 14th century to be exact. I have read some recent reviews that panned this book for too much detail about what went on in the history of the Catholic Church and the world of art and artists back then, but I loved that part of the book. There was a lot of suspense in this novel and much to the relief of Dr. Brockton (I’m sure), not one snake.
I listened to this book on audio and if I was forced to nit-pick at something, I would have to call out Tom Stechschulte for his French accent. He does an amazing job overall at reading these books, but the French accent came off a little too Germanic for me, and I was quite relieved when the accented character met his demise, so the accent could also be put to rest. In general, I am still very much enjoying this series and will go in search of some other titles … even if they are out of order.
The three books that I have read in this series have all had parallel story lines, one in the present and one in the past. I guess when you are writing about a forensic anthropologist there has to be something that happened in the past. In this book it goes way, way into the past, the 14th century to be exact. I have read some recent reviews that panned this book for too much detail about what went on in the history of the Catholic Church and the world of art and artists back then, but I loved that part of the book. There was a lot of suspense in this novel and much to the relief of Dr. Brockton (I’m sure), not one snake.
I listened to this book on audio and if I was forced to nit-pick at something, I would have to call out Tom Stechschulte for his French accent. He does an amazing job overall at reading these books, but the French accent came off a little too Germanic for me, and I was quite relieved when the accented character met his demise, so the accent could also be put to rest. In general, I am still very much enjoying this series and will go in search of some other titles … even if they are out of order.
March 31, 2012
Having never read the prior Body Farm novels by Jefferson Bass, I recently received an advance copy of the new novel The Inquisitor’s Key. Within minutes of cracking open the novel, I had a familiar yet infrequent experience: you know—that proud, greedy feeling you get when you finally discover an author (and trick yourself into believing that you were the first).
The Inquisitor’s Key features dual narrative arcs on a collision course with one another—a modern-day murder mystery with a case of unidentified bones and a medieval account of a ruthless inquisitor-turned-pope in Avignon, France—and I must say that the author deftly and seamlessly bridges not only continents but centuries as well.
Those familiar and unfamiliar with the Body Farm novels will be excited to pick up the trail of Dr. Bill Brockton, renowned forensic anthropologist and founder of the Body Farm at the University of Tennessee, as the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) calls him away from his grisly yet fascinating scientific studies to investigate a body at a local murder scene. But what’s in store for Dr. Brockton is definitely out of the jurisdiction of the TBI: the bones that await his expertise in Avignon, France could represent the most groundbreaking archaeological discovery of the past two thousand years! The urgent question then becomes—who will kill to possess these bones and who will die to keep their existence secret from humanity (and why)?
In this fast-paced, intelligent thriller, Jefferson Bass explores the history of art and religion, the science of forensic anthropology and the architecture and geography of modern-day Europe. Transcending genre, the novel becomes an unforgettable commentary on mankind’s two mistresses: superstition and science.
The Inquisitor’s Key features dual narrative arcs on a collision course with one another—a modern-day murder mystery with a case of unidentified bones and a medieval account of a ruthless inquisitor-turned-pope in Avignon, France—and I must say that the author deftly and seamlessly bridges not only continents but centuries as well.
Those familiar and unfamiliar with the Body Farm novels will be excited to pick up the trail of Dr. Bill Brockton, renowned forensic anthropologist and founder of the Body Farm at the University of Tennessee, as the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) calls him away from his grisly yet fascinating scientific studies to investigate a body at a local murder scene. But what’s in store for Dr. Brockton is definitely out of the jurisdiction of the TBI: the bones that await his expertise in Avignon, France could represent the most groundbreaking archaeological discovery of the past two thousand years! The urgent question then becomes—who will kill to possess these bones and who will die to keep their existence secret from humanity (and why)?
In this fast-paced, intelligent thriller, Jefferson Bass explores the history of art and religion, the science of forensic anthropology and the architecture and geography of modern-day Europe. Transcending genre, the novel becomes an unforgettable commentary on mankind’s two mistresses: superstition and science.
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