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Samuel Tolen #1
Indisputable Proof
When the Sudarium of Oviedo—the venerable cloth that once covered Jesus Christ’s face on the cross—is stolen from a cathedral in Spain, it sparks a series of grisly murders. Each victim is killed in a manner resembling the form of execution of one of the Apostles.
Now, with five days until the Sudarium is to be displayed at the start of the Feast of the Cross, and with the blame of the theft pointed at the United States, CIA operative Samuel Tolen, Spanish inspector Pascal Diaz and British archaeologist Dr. Jade Mollur embark on a journey to reclaim the Sudarium. Their search takes a surprising turn when a 2,000-year-old clue suggests a far greater secret is within reach, a startling discovery that would forever change humanity, but there are others after the treasure. A rogue group called “The True Sons of Light” are determined to destroy the archaeological evidence before they can reach it.
In a deadly race against time spanning four continents, Samuel Tolen’s search for the truth will uncover unspeakable deception…and the chance to answer mankind’s greatest question: Is there life after death?
Now, with five days until the Sudarium is to be displayed at the start of the Feast of the Cross, and with the blame of the theft pointed at the United States, CIA operative Samuel Tolen, Spanish inspector Pascal Diaz and British archaeologist Dr. Jade Mollur embark on a journey to reclaim the Sudarium. Their search takes a surprising turn when a 2,000-year-old clue suggests a far greater secret is within reach, a startling discovery that would forever change humanity, but there are others after the treasure. A rogue group called “The True Sons of Light” are determined to destroy the archaeological evidence before they can reach it.
In a deadly race against time spanning four continents, Samuel Tolen’s search for the truth will uncover unspeakable deception…and the chance to answer mankind’s greatest question: Is there life after death?
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2012
337 people are currently reading
973 people want to read
About the author
Gary Williams
13 books35 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
May 8, 2019
I bought this book as a daily deal a while ago, but had never gotten around to reading it. I finally got to it and boy, am I glad I did. In Spain the Sudarium, a priceless relic believed to have been wrapped around Jesus' head after the crucifixion, has been stolen. CIA agent Samuel Tolen is given the job of returning it in time for it's next public viewing, just a few days away. He teams up with Spanish Police Inspector Pascal Diaz and British Archaeologist Dr Jade Moller to solve the clues to its return, and also to an even greater prize, the mortal remains of Jesus Christ.
What ensues is a rollicking tale of adventure spanning from the States, through Costa Rica and Greece to the final showdown in Egypt. I urge you to suspend your disbelief, buckle up and enjoy the ride.
What ensues is a rollicking tale of adventure spanning from the States, through Costa Rica and Greece to the final showdown in Egypt. I urge you to suspend your disbelief, buckle up and enjoy the ride.
December 21, 2024
‘Each man searches for his own truth.’
Since Dan Brown published the Da Vinci Code back in 2003 there seems to have been a plethora of books relating to Christian relics – and Indisputable Proof is one of the better ones.
Opening with the discovery of the theft of the Sudarium of Oviedo – the cloth believed to be wrapped around Jesus’ face and head when he was lowered from the cross – the relic is on public display three times a year. (It’s a lesser known relic than the Shroud of Turin). It’s loss is attributed to a former CIA operative and the CIA through the POTUS have convinced the Spanish authorities to keep the loss quiet to avoid a backlash from Christian extremists as a team searches for it – against a timeline of 6 days before the next public showing.
With no expense spared, CIA operative Samuel Tolen, Spanish police Inspector Pascal Diaz and UK archaeologist Dr Jade Mollur - fly in a Learjet from the US to Costa Rica, to Greece and finally to Egypt, avoiding death traps and in one case sharks, in search of hidden jars mentioned in the Dead Sea Scrolls - attributed to Joseph of Arimathea. Naturally, there is a reclusive billionaire villain in the shadows, and none of the team appears to be who they seem.
The book’s title is derived from those seeking indisputable proof, not only that Jesus Christ existed, but the concept of life after death. Though sceptical at first, this reader was quickly drawn in by the “faith v historical fact” debate, the details on the relics and of archaeological sites I had never heard of in Costa Rica and Greece. The characters were convincing, especially CIA analyst Tiffany Bar – thrust into the limelight as the deadline approaches.
Probably one of the more intelligent and thought-provoking books I have read in a long time.
Since Dan Brown published the Da Vinci Code back in 2003 there seems to have been a plethora of books relating to Christian relics – and Indisputable Proof is one of the better ones.
Opening with the discovery of the theft of the Sudarium of Oviedo – the cloth believed to be wrapped around Jesus’ face and head when he was lowered from the cross – the relic is on public display three times a year. (It’s a lesser known relic than the Shroud of Turin). It’s loss is attributed to a former CIA operative and the CIA through the POTUS have convinced the Spanish authorities to keep the loss quiet to avoid a backlash from Christian extremists as a team searches for it – against a timeline of 6 days before the next public showing.
With no expense spared, CIA operative Samuel Tolen, Spanish police Inspector Pascal Diaz and UK archaeologist Dr Jade Mollur - fly in a Learjet from the US to Costa Rica, to Greece and finally to Egypt, avoiding death traps and in one case sharks, in search of hidden jars mentioned in the Dead Sea Scrolls - attributed to Joseph of Arimathea. Naturally, there is a reclusive billionaire villain in the shadows, and none of the team appears to be who they seem.
The book’s title is derived from those seeking indisputable proof, not only that Jesus Christ existed, but the concept of life after death. Though sceptical at first, this reader was quickly drawn in by the “faith v historical fact” debate, the details on the relics and of archaeological sites I had never heard of in Costa Rica and Greece. The characters were convincing, especially CIA analyst Tiffany Bar – thrust into the limelight as the deadline approaches.
Probably one of the more intelligent and thought-provoking books I have read in a long time.
April 11, 2013
Gary Willians & Vicky Knerly have magnificiently collaborated to bring to life this riveting, suspenseful and powerful story that will take the reader on a global journey of breathtaking proportions.
The cloth that covered the face of Jesus on the cross, called the Sudarium of Oviedo, is stolen and its theft is hidden from the public when the CIA advises the Church and Spanish Government to do so. The Sudarium must be returned in time for The Feast of the Cross which is only days away. This brings together the unlikely trio of CIA Agent Samuel Tolen, Spanish Inspector Pascal Diaz whose brother was killed during the theft and Dr. Jade Mollur a British archaeologist. While the clock is ticking they must find and return the Sudarium to its rightful place before certain extremist groups take terrorist actions against the United States.
The story takes the reader across the globe to locations that are packed full of history and suspense. The story is fast paced and fashioned in such a powerful and dramatic way the reader will feel their pulse quicken as the story progresses. The characters are well developed and their dialogue is intelligent and credible which lends to the overall uniqueness and magnitude of the story.
The main character of Samuel Tolen is extremely intelligent, dedicated and possesses a great sense of calmness that lends to his overall strength of character. His interactions with Diaz and Mollur are so detailed and informative it's impossible not to learn a great deal as you actually feel present in the story itself.
It is obvious the amount of research and detail that went into the writing of this story. I love to read a book that tells a great story, is written with intelligence and as you peruse the pages you learn a great deal about the subject at hand. The writing is creative, thought-provoking and seemingly effortless.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. It's a story that will keep you totally immersed and take you places that will astound you. This is the first book I have read by Williams & Knerly but will definitely not be the last.
The cloth that covered the face of Jesus on the cross, called the Sudarium of Oviedo, is stolen and its theft is hidden from the public when the CIA advises the Church and Spanish Government to do so. The Sudarium must be returned in time for The Feast of the Cross which is only days away. This brings together the unlikely trio of CIA Agent Samuel Tolen, Spanish Inspector Pascal Diaz whose brother was killed during the theft and Dr. Jade Mollur a British archaeologist. While the clock is ticking they must find and return the Sudarium to its rightful place before certain extremist groups take terrorist actions against the United States.
The story takes the reader across the globe to locations that are packed full of history and suspense. The story is fast paced and fashioned in such a powerful and dramatic way the reader will feel their pulse quicken as the story progresses. The characters are well developed and their dialogue is intelligent and credible which lends to the overall uniqueness and magnitude of the story.
The main character of Samuel Tolen is extremely intelligent, dedicated and possesses a great sense of calmness that lends to his overall strength of character. His interactions with Diaz and Mollur are so detailed and informative it's impossible not to learn a great deal as you actually feel present in the story itself.
It is obvious the amount of research and detail that went into the writing of this story. I love to read a book that tells a great story, is written with intelligence and as you peruse the pages you learn a great deal about the subject at hand. The writing is creative, thought-provoking and seemingly effortless.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. It's a story that will keep you totally immersed and take you places that will astound you. This is the first book I have read by Williams & Knerly but will definitely not be the last.
March 3, 2020
I was mislead by the cover. Never again.
October 17, 2013
Fairly standard action/adventure plot based on a Biblical archaelogy framework. Good writing, fast pace, relatively good characterizations, definitely an 'Indiana Jones' feel to the action. Recent archaeological discoveries used very effectively and accurately in the plotline.
In most cases, I find Biblical archaelogy and religion as a plot framework not very appealing as in too many cases it is simply a vehicle for presenting the religious beliefs of the author. This book walked a very fine line between Christian proselytizing and straight action/adventure and did it very well.
Until the end, unfortunately. The Epilogue, for me personally, was not necessary and negated the nicely done tightrope walking between faith and science throughout the rest of the book. Dropped my rating one star because of this and probably won't read any more by these authors.
In most cases, I find Biblical archaelogy and religion as a plot framework not very appealing as in too many cases it is simply a vehicle for presenting the religious beliefs of the author. This book walked a very fine line between Christian proselytizing and straight action/adventure and did it very well.
Until the end, unfortunately. The Epilogue, for me personally, was not necessary and negated the nicely done tightrope walking between faith and science throughout the rest of the book. Dropped my rating one star because of this and probably won't read any more by these authors.
February 25, 2015
Great story
Great story. Easy read. Not hard to keep track of characters. Story line was easy to follow. Kept me on my toes.
Great story. Easy read. Not hard to keep track of characters. Story line was easy to follow. Kept me on my toes.
June 4, 2017
A fascinating and engaging opening, great writing and edge of the seat drama. What a pity the rest of the book didn't live up to the promising opening.
Clearly this book is part of a series and fans of the series may be more forgiving. I on the other hand found Tolen one dimensional and his know it all approach became increasingly tiresome and irritating. The only character I really connected with was Diaz.
The convoluted clues and global search with religious overtones should have been a page turner but I decided to wall bang it and give up at 40% before Tolen's excruciating showing off had the chance to rear its ugly head again.
Maybe this particular book is a dud and others in the series are better. I won't however be finding out.
Clearly this book is part of a series and fans of the series may be more forgiving. I on the other hand found Tolen one dimensional and his know it all approach became increasingly tiresome and irritating. The only character I really connected with was Diaz.
The convoluted clues and global search with religious overtones should have been a page turner but I decided to wall bang it and give up at 40% before Tolen's excruciating showing off had the chance to rear its ugly head again.
Maybe this particular book is a dud and others in the series are better. I won't however be finding out.
June 29, 2018
"If you loved The Da Vinci Code you'll love this" it says on the blurb. Well, it wasn't quite as good as Dan Brown but it was good. The Gary Williams and Vicky Knerly combined a bit of the Bible, a little church history, a stolen relic, DNA research, and lots of twists to produce a Brown/Indiana Jones-type story.
Interesting characters, especially the central three: CIA Agent Samuel Tolen, the British archeologist Jade Mollur, and the Spanish police officer Pascal Diaz. My one gripe: over and over the authors wrote 'Book of RevelationS' when referring to the last book of the Bible; there is no S at the end of the word.
No graphic sex or violence
Interesting characters, especially the central three: CIA Agent Samuel Tolen, the British archeologist Jade Mollur, and the Spanish police officer Pascal Diaz. My one gripe: over and over the authors wrote 'Book of RevelationS' when referring to the last book of the Bible; there is no S at the end of the word.
No graphic sex or violence
March 7, 2018
The premise was somewhat plausible until we had to assume that Joseph of Arimethea somehow made it to the America's, died there and was more or less canonized by locals and given a royal tomb. That along with elaborate burials of the Apostles and then ultimately........... Christ himself... or not? It tried too hard to be a combination of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Da Vinci Code but on a combination of steroids and Opium......more opium really as the plot was just not in reality at all. 2-1/2 stars
August 5, 2017
Attention Grabbing Thriller
This was a gripping story combing a murder mystery thriller with an historical twist. Despite the fascination narrative that keeps you glued to its pages, by the end of the book the subplots and contradictions make the story totally unbelievable. This was an honest effort to capture the essence of the DaVinci Code but took too many detours from credibility to leave you either satisfied or wondering.
This was a gripping story combing a murder mystery thriller with an historical twist. Despite the fascination narrative that keeps you glued to its pages, by the end of the book the subplots and contradictions make the story totally unbelievable. This was an honest effort to capture the essence of the DaVinci Code but took too many detours from credibility to leave you either satisfied or wondering.
August 10, 2018
Like Dan Brown's writing -this is a good book
I have read a few of Dan Brown's book and watched his movies (Tom Hanks was good)..This book although a work of fiction gave me a good history lesson (the portions that were real) while keeping my interest. The writing was good and the story flowed. I rated it 4-stars instead of 5 as there were areas that I thought was rushed,to include events that did not add to the story. . Overall a great book
I have read a few of Dan Brown's book and watched his movies (Tom Hanks was good)..This book although a work of fiction gave me a good history lesson (the portions that were real) while keeping my interest. The writing was good and the story flowed. I rated it 4-stars instead of 5 as there were areas that I thought was rushed,to include events that did not add to the story. . Overall a great book
July 24, 2022
Wonderful Fast Paced Adventure
Indisputable Proof is the 1st book in the Samuel Tolen series and the 1st book I have read by the Knerly & Williams writing team. From the first page until the last, I was captivated by this story. The writing was immersive, from the character building, the detailed settings descriptions, to all the twists and turns throughout the story, this was a wonderful adventure. I am looking forward to reading the 2nd book in this series.
Indisputable Proof is the 1st book in the Samuel Tolen series and the 1st book I have read by the Knerly & Williams writing team. From the first page until the last, I was captivated by this story. The writing was immersive, from the character building, the detailed settings descriptions, to all the twists and turns throughout the story, this was a wonderful adventure. I am looking forward to reading the 2nd book in this series.
July 30, 2017
Intriguing
I found this book a treasure! Raised a Catholic, living a Christian life at 71 yr old female, I experienced numerous levels of emotions which included anger, amazement, wonder, & more. My background included that of an amateur archaeologist, which helped me find the full depth of this wonderful story. The writers are truly gifted.
I found this book a treasure! Raised a Catholic, living a Christian life at 71 yr old female, I experienced numerous levels of emotions which included anger, amazement, wonder, & more. My background included that of an amateur archaeologist, which helped me find the full depth of this wonderful story. The writers are truly gifted.
June 26, 2019
Good story except for the romantic part.
The romance portion ..I just didn't buy it. I enjoyed suspending my disbelief of amazing feats of crawling up walls and staring down pilots and stealing their small planes,but not that romance.It was even a little irritating and distracting..I would like to read another to see if they can find a way to ditch the girl.
The romance portion ..I just didn't buy it. I enjoyed suspending my disbelief of amazing feats of crawling up walls and staring down pilots and stealing their small planes,but not that romance.It was even a little irritating and distracting..I would like to read another to see if they can find a way to ditch the girl.
March 5, 2020
Phenomenal!!
The storyline was so exciting and thought provoking. The excitement starts from the very beginning and does not stop. The characters were so well written and believable. The ending surprised me and I pride myself in being able to figure out endings easily.
I loved the entire experience of this read.
The storyline was so exciting and thought provoking. The excitement starts from the very beginning and does not stop. The characters were so well written and believable. The ending surprised me and I pride myself in being able to figure out endings easily.
I loved the entire experience of this read.
August 8, 2020
An adventure taking you in and out of historical well known places,tombs, pyramids seeking for the stolen relic (I'm not tell you what). The inside imaginations of Gary & Vickey the travels of mystery, journey, and the quest that takes you take will keep you turning pages. CIA Agent Samuel Tolen so brave, handsome, heartfelt, dedicated leave you knowing were all safe with him around.
May 18, 2025
Treasure hunt like no other
Three multibillionaires get bored with their wealth and lives, so they band together to find ways to amuse themselves. The fact many innocent people are murdered during the quests they create doesn't matter one iota to them. It's challenging to read and to try to figure out the good guys from the bad guys and the ending is a great surprise.
Three multibillionaires get bored with their wealth and lives, so they band together to find ways to amuse themselves. The fact many innocent people are murdered during the quests they create doesn't matter one iota to them. It's challenging to read and to try to figure out the good guys from the bad guys and the ending is a great surprise.
February 19, 2017
Hooked from page 1!
Indisputable Proof hooks you from the beginning. It takes you on a ride 'a la Dan Brown from beginning to end. It is well researched so it always has you wondering what is fact and what is not.
Indisputable Proof hooks you from the beginning. It takes you on a ride 'a la Dan Brown from beginning to end. It is well researched so it always has you wondering what is fact and what is not.
March 17, 2017
Very Compelling
I'm not sure why I chose this book, but for whatever reason it was a magnificent read.
Knowing it was fictional still was built upon many Biblical teachings which we Christians hold as truths.
Will probably read again
I'm not sure why I chose this book, but for whatever reason it was a magnificent read.
Knowing it was fictional still was built upon many Biblical teachings which we Christians hold as truths.
Will probably read again
March 24, 2017
Good read
A good story. I liked the hero, almost perfect, reminded me of James Bond a bit. Government agent, good looking, capable and an expert on most anything that mattered. A beautiful woman. A plot that asks the age old question 'is there life after death? And an unimaginable amount of money. Lots of action and more than one surprise, especially the ending. Absolutely didn't see it coming.
A good story. I liked the hero, almost perfect, reminded me of James Bond a bit. Government agent, good looking, capable and an expert on most anything that mattered. A beautiful woman. A plot that asks the age old question 'is there life after death? And an unimaginable amount of money. Lots of action and more than one surprise, especially the ending. Absolutely didn't see it coming.
May 25, 2017
Fantastic book
It's always enjoyable to read a book that contains a lot of facts of history that many of us are not aware of . There is a lot of Mystery history and thrills . It was a total page turn I couldn't put it down
It's always enjoyable to read a book that contains a lot of facts of history that many of us are not aware of . There is a lot of Mystery history and thrills . It was a total page turn I couldn't put it down
June 14, 2017
The Adventure of a Lifetime
Anyone who has enjoyed the adventures of Indiana Jones, in particular the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade will definitely enjoy Indisputable Proof. Extremely well written, the action continues non stop until the end. Definitely worth the read!
Anyone who has enjoyed the adventures of Indiana Jones, in particular the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade will definitely enjoy Indisputable Proof. Extremely well written, the action continues non stop until the end. Definitely worth the read!
November 26, 2017
A page turner.
The book was highly engaging. The characters were well developed. The plot moved quickly and I hated to have to put the book down. I am looking forward to the author’s next book.
The book was highly engaging. The characters were well developed. The plot moved quickly and I hated to have to put the book down. I am looking forward to the author’s next book.
May 27, 2020
wow, what a story! long, but this is the 1st long book in a long time that held my attention .. so much action to know what the heck would happen next! interesting ending .. I learned a lot from it, as I knew about the Shroud of Turin but did not know about the Sudarian ..
July 31, 2017
Don't get me started
August 11, 2017
A wild ride.
Constantly keeping you in your toes and steeped in religious facts and information. Well developed characters and fascinating descriptions of people and places.
Constantly keeping you in your toes and steeped in religious facts and information. Well developed characters and fascinating descriptions of people and places.
August 17, 2017
Riviting and well writtem
I couldn't put this down. A great mystery. I look forward to more books by this author. The history was well written, but not boring.
I couldn't put this down. A great mystery. I look forward to more books by this author. The history was well written, but not boring.
September 16, 2017
Good Book!
I enjoyed this book alot. It is almost as good as "the Holy Grail" of historical action the da Vinci Code. So if like Dan Brown you will like this one.
I enjoyed this book alot. It is almost as good as "the Holy Grail" of historical action the da Vinci Code. So if like Dan Brown you will like this one.
November 29, 2017
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
February 14, 2018
Well written, just didn't care for the story so much.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews