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The India Summers Mysteries #1
The Dead Virgins
A young girl is found crucified. A man is bludgeoned to death outside a small English library, and the Mother Superior of a secretive convent is burnt alive in a cemetery. India Sommers, a young and attractive librarian with a passion for history, joins forces with intelligence officer, Brandon Walker, investigating the disappearance of a very special young girl. It soon becomes apparent that a string of strange murders across Southern England, and an ancient artefact missing for thousands of years may hold the key to her whereabouts.
The clues stretch back through time to before the great flood, and, as the facts are uncovered, and the full horror and mind blowing truth of what they have discovered becomes clear, they become involved in a frantic race against time in a horrific and shocking finale.
The clues stretch back through time to before the great flood, and, as the facts are uncovered, and the full horror and mind blowing truth of what they have discovered becomes clear, they become involved in a frantic race against time in a horrific and shocking finale.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2011
271 people are currently reading
1129 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Ashman
52 books225 followersKevin Ashman is the author of twenty-six novels including the best-selling Roman Chronicles and highly ranked Medieval Sagas.
Always pushing the boundaries he found further success with the India Sommers Mysteries as well as three other stand-alone projects, Vampire, Savage Eden and the dystopian horror story, The Last Citadel. These cross-genre books have now been added to by the two Sci-fi novels, The Legacy Protocol and The Seventh God.
Kevin was born and raised in Wales in the United Kingdom and now writes full time having been signed by a major publishing company. He is married with four grown children and enjoys cycling, swimming and watching rugby as his hobbies.
Recent works include the Blood of Kings trilogy and the follow-up books, Warrior Princess and The Blade Bearer.
The most recent project is a five-book series about the Templars during the 12th century. Templar Steel, Templar Stone, Templar Blood and Templar Fury are already on sale and Templar Glory is due for release in Oct 2021.
An exciting project is also underway, a three-book series chronicling the years leading up to and beyond the Battle of Hastings.
Always pushing the boundaries he found further success with the India Sommers Mysteries as well as three other stand-alone projects, Vampire, Savage Eden and the dystopian horror story, The Last Citadel. These cross-genre books have now been added to by the two Sci-fi novels, The Legacy Protocol and The Seventh God.
Kevin was born and raised in Wales in the United Kingdom and now writes full time having been signed by a major publishing company. He is married with four grown children and enjoys cycling, swimming and watching rugby as his hobbies.
Recent works include the Blood of Kings trilogy and the follow-up books, Warrior Princess and The Blade Bearer.
The most recent project is a five-book series about the Templars during the 12th century. Templar Steel, Templar Stone, Templar Blood and Templar Fury are already on sale and Templar Glory is due for release in Oct 2021.
An exciting project is also underway, a three-book series chronicling the years leading up to and beyond the Battle of Hastings.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
June 29, 2012
Choosing a work of historical fiction can be something of a Marmite moment for me, you either love it or hate it, but in this instance I'm pleased to say I loved it.
What makes this book stand apart from others is that the author has beautifully entwined both the historical with the modern. This creates a thrilling tale that not only provides us with a colourful insight into life in ancient Rome, through the telling of Rubria's story and that of her escape from the tyrannical Nero, it also envelopes us in the fast paced and heart stopping drama surrounding the main protagonists, Brandon and India as they race against time to save a small girl snatched from her family on the streets of modern day London.
As both stories seamlessly blend in to the other we are presented with a well thought out mystery that is a clever mix of Indiana Jones, Who Dares Wins and the Da Vinci Code.
This book is much more than a work of historical fiction and as such you wouldn't be confronted by that Marmite moment as I thought I would be, why? Well, because you'll love it just as I did.
What makes this book stand apart from others is that the author has beautifully entwined both the historical with the modern. This creates a thrilling tale that not only provides us with a colourful insight into life in ancient Rome, through the telling of Rubria's story and that of her escape from the tyrannical Nero, it also envelopes us in the fast paced and heart stopping drama surrounding the main protagonists, Brandon and India as they race against time to save a small girl snatched from her family on the streets of modern day London.
As both stories seamlessly blend in to the other we are presented with a well thought out mystery that is a clever mix of Indiana Jones, Who Dares Wins and the Da Vinci Code.
This book is much more than a work of historical fiction and as such you wouldn't be confronted by that Marmite moment as I thought I would be, why? Well, because you'll love it just as I did.
April 24, 2012
A potentially good storyline spoiled in my view by a very unsophisticated and rather annoying hero and heroine. It was as if, at times, I was reading something from the 'Famous Five' series. Very 'jolly hockey sticks' in humour. The heroine often kicks and punches the hero in a teenage 'mock indignant' fashion throughout the book. Whilst in Rome they both drooled over beef and yorkshire pudding rather than the "foreign muck"(!). In fact the author seemed to relish talking about very plain & boring 'good old British food' (adding nothing to the plot). I have to like my main characters in order for me to really enjoy a book, and I simply didn't like these. I wouldn't choose to spend time with people like that, and hence didn't really enjoy spending time with them whilst reading this.
September 20, 2023
oh my... I actually bought three of this series on sale since the premises sounded great and the ratings were good. Unfortunately, the writing and stories aren't. Good that is. Cliches, awful characters you wouldn't want to spend any time with at all given the option, and writing that is simply poor. Some good history and background, but not enough to make me care in the least. I even started one of the later books hoping things improved - they didn't...
September 19, 2013
The story had potential but it didn't flow. The characters were 2 dimensional and very annoying. There was no tension or excitement built by the narrative. I probably won't be reading the sequels.
January 22, 2016
2.5
So. Many. Infodumps.
This book is yet another DaVinci Code clone, where comparative religious studies are mined to create a (not very thrilling) thriller, complete with typos and misspellings galore. (People do not worship at an "alter".)
The historical details were mildly interesting. Nothing else was. Oddly enough the historical details--told in protracted infodumps--are the best part of the book. The rest of it is chasing around England and Greece to find clues. Both of the modern day heroes are cartoonish and slightly annoying. Several times the story comes to a moment where the good guys are cornered and there appears to be no way out. Each time the hero wakes up or regains consciousness only to have someone Infodump the solution. ("You got knocked out when we arrived in the nick of time to save you.")
The only thing that saves this from being a 1-star failure is the part of the story set in the past. The characters Rubria and Rose are sympathetic and interesting. They are what kept me reading to the end.
So. Many. Infodumps.
This book is yet another DaVinci Code clone, where comparative religious studies are mined to create a (not very thrilling) thriller, complete with typos and misspellings galore. (People do not worship at an "alter".)
The historical details were mildly interesting. Nothing else was. Oddly enough the historical details--told in protracted infodumps--are the best part of the book. The rest of it is chasing around England and Greece to find clues. Both of the modern day heroes are cartoonish and slightly annoying. Several times the story comes to a moment where the good guys are cornered and there appears to be no way out. Each time the hero wakes up or regains consciousness only to have someone Infodump the solution. ("You got knocked out when we arrived in the nick of time to save you.")
The only thing that saves this from being a 1-star failure is the part of the story set in the past. The characters Rubria and Rose are sympathetic and interesting. They are what kept me reading to the end.
December 7, 2014
I found this book in a Facebook promotion group. The synopsis immediately caught my attention. From the first paragraph K.M. Ashman had me. I couldn't put the book down. I've told everyone about it, and now they are reading it and texting me how much they love it.
It is unique in that one chapter is in 2010 and the next in 64 AD and how the two tie into each other. The mystery and flow of the story were excellent.
It is unique in that one chapter is in 2010 and the next in 64 AD and how the two tie into each other. The mystery and flow of the story were excellent.
June 23, 2013
So many errors it detracted from the story. Great premise, but edit your book before you publish it please!
March 8, 2016
Probably 2.5 stars. I enjoyed the storyline, but the writing style didn't really work for me. I didn't ever really connect with the two central characters, either.
August 19, 2012
India Sommers, librarian and old coin aficionado, is going about her normal business when a mysterious man stumbles into her library, asks her to examine a curious ancient coin, stumbles back out, and is murdered. When the enigmatic Brandon Walker asks for her aid to tie the artifact to a high-profile kidnapping and a string of brutal murders, India is thrown into a breakneck adventure that leads her all over Europe as well as back in the past. The novel deftly interweaves the 64AD narrative of Rubria, a vestal virgin in the time of Nero, with India's present-time adventure. As the story races towards the denouement, their stories become inextricably intertwined.
I would say this novel falls squarely into the category of historical/conspiracy thriller rather than murder mystery or detective story. For me, the way it linked ancient intrigue with present-day mayhem was very reminiscent of Dan Brown, and in fact I would describe this as a rather gentler story very much in the style of The DaVinci Code. In terms of style, Ashman favors very simple, straightforward prose that makes the book a very fast read. There are numerous grammatical errors, mainly punctuation and capitalization, but I did not feel that they detracted from the narrative. (I read the printed book; the ebook has apparently undergone additional editing).
Thrillers aren't my normal fare, and like most thrillers, the plot falls well outside the realms of probability. I didn't so much suspend disbelief as have to throw it out the window. As someone who is fascinated by mythology, although I don't mind conspiracy theories and know that a little factual leniency is standard in the genre, I tend to find minor inaccuracies in the tiny details rather galling. A few of my hypercritical quibbles: for one, a blonde, blue-eyed Roman citizen such as Rubria would be incredibly unusual in 64 AD, and the casual mentions and depictions of "heaven" felt much more Christian than Roman. I was also jarred by a few anachronisms such as ancient Romans with names like "Amy" and "Rose" (as opposed to Amata/Rhoda/Rosa)and use of expressions such as "okay" or "fuck". I also had trouble reconciling the mythology presented here with that I had previously encountered; given the persnicketiness of my complaints, especially given the syncretism of the region, I spoiler-tagged the specifics:
At the same time, it is clear that Ashman researched both the historical landmarks and legends that he weaves into the story. I loved the small details he included such as the way early Christians co-opted iconography of Isis into depictions of Mary, mother of Jesus. In the present day portion of the narrative, I faced similar difficulties with my skepticism. I couldn't really reconcile the concept of a special forces operative behaving so haphazardly and unprofessionally or picking up such inexperienced specialist. I also found it somewhat difficult to connect the antagonists' impressive web of conspiracy and intrigue with the rather dubious talents of some of their employees. For such a murderous and far-reaching gang, they seemed to lack a certain level of competence and were oddly shy about harming the protagonists. (Perhaps they failed to read the evil overlord handbook.) Again, however, it's no more improbable than, say, Indiana Jones' or Robert Langdon's adventures. I also loved that the genre-savvy narrator and characters wryly lampshaded some of the scenes that relied heavily on thriller tropes or Bondsian moments. I loved that neither the characters nor the narrator took themselves completely seriously and nicely punctuated the story with humour.
Once my disbelief had been firmly defenestrated, I found it an enjoyable read. Despite my quibbles above, I really loved the way Ashman tied together a historical mystery and the legend of Rubria into a long-hidden conspiracy. I also thought Ashman did an excellent job of bringing characters such as Rubria and Nero to life. I enjoyed the Romans' casual mentions of Boudicca and the way that historical events, such as the burning of Rome, played integral roles in the plot. I found Rubria to be an engaging and sympathetic character and was quickly drawn into her story. In the present-day portion, however, I found Brian and India to be rather flat, and neither seemed to be firmly rooted in their world. I felt that they lacked the backgrounds, relationships, and quirks that delineate personalities. My favorite parts of the present-day portions were the interactions with incidental characters such as a talkative, sexually obsessed, yet oddly motherly inkeep, a laconic Italian guide, and a sarcastic and entertaining cab driver.
Overall, although it didn't quite fit my tastes, I can see this as being a great read for those who like their page-turners a little more towards suspense than mystery. With its web of wide-reaching conspiracies tied to ancient religious artifacts, The Dead Virgins is an enjoyable light thriller that will appeal to fans of Dan Brown, Sam Bourne, and Indiana Jones.
Note: I received this book through the Goodreads First Reads program.
I would say this novel falls squarely into the category of historical/conspiracy thriller rather than murder mystery or detective story. For me, the way it linked ancient intrigue with present-day mayhem was very reminiscent of Dan Brown, and in fact I would describe this as a rather gentler story very much in the style of The DaVinci Code. In terms of style, Ashman favors very simple, straightforward prose that makes the book a very fast read. There are numerous grammatical errors, mainly punctuation and capitalization, but I did not feel that they detracted from the narrative. (I read the printed book; the ebook has apparently undergone additional editing).
Thrillers aren't my normal fare, and like most thrillers, the plot falls well outside the realms of probability. I didn't so much suspend disbelief as have to throw it out the window. As someone who is fascinated by mythology, although I don't mind conspiracy theories and know that a little factual leniency is standard in the genre, I tend to find minor inaccuracies in the tiny details rather galling. A few of my hypercritical quibbles: for one, a blonde, blue-eyed Roman citizen such as Rubria would be incredibly unusual in 64 AD, and the casual mentions and depictions of "heaven" felt much more Christian than Roman. I was also jarred by a few anachronisms such as ancient Romans with names like "Amy" and "Rose" (as opposed to Amata/Rhoda/Rosa)and use of expressions such as "okay" or "fuck". I also had trouble reconciling the mythology presented here with that I had previously encountered; given the persnicketiness of my complaints, especially given the syncretism of the region, I spoiler-tagged the specifics:
At the same time, it is clear that Ashman researched both the historical landmarks and legends that he weaves into the story. I loved the small details he included such as the way early Christians co-opted iconography of Isis into depictions of Mary, mother of Jesus. In the present day portion of the narrative, I faced similar difficulties with my skepticism. I couldn't really reconcile the concept of a special forces operative behaving so haphazardly and unprofessionally or picking up such inexperienced specialist. I also found it somewhat difficult to connect the antagonists' impressive web of conspiracy and intrigue with the rather dubious talents of some of their employees. For such a murderous and far-reaching gang, they seemed to lack a certain level of competence and were oddly shy about harming the protagonists. (Perhaps they failed to read the evil overlord handbook.) Again, however, it's no more improbable than, say, Indiana Jones' or Robert Langdon's adventures. I also loved that the genre-savvy narrator and characters wryly lampshaded some of the scenes that relied heavily on thriller tropes or Bondsian moments. I loved that neither the characters nor the narrator took themselves completely seriously and nicely punctuated the story with humour.
Once my disbelief had been firmly defenestrated, I found it an enjoyable read. Despite my quibbles above, I really loved the way Ashman tied together a historical mystery and the legend of Rubria into a long-hidden conspiracy. I also thought Ashman did an excellent job of bringing characters such as Rubria and Nero to life. I enjoyed the Romans' casual mentions of Boudicca and the way that historical events, such as the burning of Rome, played integral roles in the plot. I found Rubria to be an engaging and sympathetic character and was quickly drawn into her story. In the present-day portion, however, I found Brian and India to be rather flat, and neither seemed to be firmly rooted in their world. I felt that they lacked the backgrounds, relationships, and quirks that delineate personalities. My favorite parts of the present-day portions were the interactions with incidental characters such as a talkative, sexually obsessed, yet oddly motherly inkeep, a laconic Italian guide, and a sarcastic and entertaining cab driver.
Overall, although it didn't quite fit my tastes, I can see this as being a great read for those who like their page-turners a little more towards suspense than mystery. With its web of wide-reaching conspiracies tied to ancient religious artifacts, The Dead Virgins is an enjoyable light thriller that will appeal to fans of Dan Brown, Sam Bourne, and Indiana Jones.
Note: I received this book through the Goodreads First Reads program.
December 27, 2014
While I appreciated the amount of research the author completed to write this and found the subject interesting, his writing was much too sophomoric for my taste. And the large number of unedited typos always annoys me.
September 10, 2014
alternates between 94 and 2010 in alternating chapters. I found the story about the Crystal virgin more interesting than the one set in modern times.
June 12, 2015
this was an okay read. I wanted more history then i did present day but for a free book it was good
September 15, 2018
SOMEWHAT SPOILIER-Y: PROCEED WITH CAUTION.
I'm really sad to rate this book so low because I really think that the underlying story idea had promise, but, good Lord, it needed an editor. At one point, we were informed that a particular river separates England and Wales. Problem is, the main characters were supposed to be residents of the UK. I would hope they'd know that without having to be told. I was intrigued enough by the mystery to want to keep reading, but I felt like ripping my hair out THE ENTIRE TIME. I had three main problems with this book:
1. India's character was SO UNREALISTIC. This is a woman who is 26 years old and is a librarian and part-time lecturer in history who collects coins as a hobby. And yet, she somehow knows everything there is to know about the ancient world. She just pulls it out of her head like that. No checking of sources, nothing. There is nothing in the book to indicate advanced studies in history or, in fact, anything about her academic background. I would bet that real experts in the field who have far more experience than India does wouldn't be able to do that. For example, at one point in the story, India and Brandon are searching for an artifact that has been missing for nearly 2,000 years. They go on a tour in Rome with an illicit tour guide who didn't really seem to tell them that much, and suddenly India figures out where this thing has been all that time (not the exact location right away but the general area)! NO ONE could do that.
2. I literally can't figure out the link between the two storylines, other than that the priestess of Vesta in the ancient storyline founded a "chapter", so to speak, of the order of Vesta in England, and the present day storyline takes place in England and kind of involves a religious group that might be based on the worship of Vesta. That's it. It seems to me that there was no reason to have a dual storyline. I think the author should have chosen one story or the other and focused more on the characterization and the flow/pacing of the story.
3. The conclusion of the mystery was kind of a let-down. It was just your standard crazy guy who perverted the practices of an ancient cult for his own ends. And since the police ended up having to use lethal force, we didn't get a lot of the why. I am unsure, having finished the book, what the coin had to do with this.
I was going to try to keep reading the remainder of the series because I got this title and would be able to get the rest of the titles through Kindle Unlimited. After having finished the book, I really don't think I can take the frustration! Actually, returning to point #1, the next book appears to be about the Ottoman Empire. Then #3 looks to be about the Third Reich. Finally, #4 appears to be about ancient Egypt. Those are vastly different eras and cultures. There is literally NO ONE in the world who would have expertise in all of them!
I'm really sad to rate this book so low because I really think that the underlying story idea had promise, but, good Lord, it needed an editor. At one point, we were informed that a particular river separates England and Wales. Problem is, the main characters were supposed to be residents of the UK. I would hope they'd know that without having to be told. I was intrigued enough by the mystery to want to keep reading, but I felt like ripping my hair out THE ENTIRE TIME. I had three main problems with this book:
1. India's character was SO UNREALISTIC. This is a woman who is 26 years old and is a librarian and part-time lecturer in history who collects coins as a hobby. And yet, she somehow knows everything there is to know about the ancient world. She just pulls it out of her head like that. No checking of sources, nothing. There is nothing in the book to indicate advanced studies in history or, in fact, anything about her academic background. I would bet that real experts in the field who have far more experience than India does wouldn't be able to do that. For example, at one point in the story, India and Brandon are searching for an artifact that has been missing for nearly 2,000 years. They go on a tour in Rome with an illicit tour guide who didn't really seem to tell them that much, and suddenly India figures out where this thing has been all that time (not the exact location right away but the general area)! NO ONE could do that.
2. I literally can't figure out the link between the two storylines, other than that the priestess of Vesta in the ancient storyline founded a "chapter", so to speak, of the order of Vesta in England, and the present day storyline takes place in England and kind of involves a religious group that might be based on the worship of Vesta. That's it. It seems to me that there was no reason to have a dual storyline. I think the author should have chosen one story or the other and focused more on the characterization and the flow/pacing of the story.
3. The conclusion of the mystery was kind of a let-down. It was just your standard crazy guy who perverted the practices of an ancient cult for his own ends. And since the police ended up having to use lethal force, we didn't get a lot of the why. I am unsure, having finished the book, what the coin had to do with this.
I was going to try to keep reading the remainder of the series because I got this title and would be able to get the rest of the titles through Kindle Unlimited. After having finished the book, I really don't think I can take the frustration! Actually, returning to point #1, the next book appears to be about the Ottoman Empire. Then #3 looks to be about the Third Reich. Finally, #4 appears to be about ancient Egypt. Those are vastly different eras and cultures. There is literally NO ONE in the world who would have expertise in all of them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2017
**Spoiler Alert**
India Sommers is a 26 year old librarian with a passion for history and coin identification, her life seems rather bland. That is until a mysterious murder outside the library brings Brandon into her life. Brandon, a member of the SAS is on the hunt for a cult that is murdering young women and is connected to the murder outside the library. Brandon recognizes India's intelligence on subject matters already present in the case and asks her to assist; adventures begin.
Ashman once again created a unique, well planned and researched novel. The modern day characters are relatable (especially India, as I am a 26 year old history teacher!), while the plights of the ancient characters have you cheering out-loud for their success. I was also extremely impressed with the amount of historical information in this novel that helped tie the story together. I truly appreciate a novel that can see the value of a well developed background story.
Although I really liked the novel, some aspects seemed rather far fetched. The plot extends over a short time period, perhaps a week, and yet India and Brandon travel all over Europe and find connections that would take most people quite a long time. I suppose it could have been a strike of luck but India and Brandon seem to waste no time talking to exactly the right people at the right time. In India and Brandon's whirlwind adventure a few things seemed to be lost, for example: the SAS believes that one of the murders killed himself when police stormed his house, India and Brandon discover that he was not the murderer . . . it is never explained why he killed himself if he was not the murderer, and if it was I must have missed the one sentence explaining it. Another example is that of the nun Bernice who perishes on the top of a mountain after calling the SAS through a distress beacon (saving the day and the entire novel). At first, Bernice doesn't trust Brandon to the extent of locking him in a cell and yet, she then goes to risk her life to use the device that Brandon claims will call the SAS. Why did she die for something she was skeptical about?
Despite these little mishaps in the plot line, I really enjoyed the story: both the modern murder mystery and the ancient fight for survival by the Vestal Virgin. I'm looking forward to reading the other novels in this series.
India Sommers is a 26 year old librarian with a passion for history and coin identification, her life seems rather bland. That is until a mysterious murder outside the library brings Brandon into her life. Brandon, a member of the SAS is on the hunt for a cult that is murdering young women and is connected to the murder outside the library. Brandon recognizes India's intelligence on subject matters already present in the case and asks her to assist; adventures begin.
Ashman once again created a unique, well planned and researched novel. The modern day characters are relatable (especially India, as I am a 26 year old history teacher!), while the plights of the ancient characters have you cheering out-loud for their success. I was also extremely impressed with the amount of historical information in this novel that helped tie the story together. I truly appreciate a novel that can see the value of a well developed background story.
Although I really liked the novel, some aspects seemed rather far fetched. The plot extends over a short time period, perhaps a week, and yet India and Brandon travel all over Europe and find connections that would take most people quite a long time. I suppose it could have been a strike of luck but India and Brandon seem to waste no time talking to exactly the right people at the right time. In India and Brandon's whirlwind adventure a few things seemed to be lost, for example: the SAS believes that one of the murders killed himself when police stormed his house, India and Brandon discover that he was not the murderer . . . it is never explained why he killed himself if he was not the murderer, and if it was I must have missed the one sentence explaining it. Another example is that of the nun Bernice who perishes on the top of a mountain after calling the SAS through a distress beacon (saving the day and the entire novel). At first, Bernice doesn't trust Brandon to the extent of locking him in a cell and yet, she then goes to risk her life to use the device that Brandon claims will call the SAS. Why did she die for something she was skeptical about?
Despite these little mishaps in the plot line, I really enjoyed the story: both the modern murder mystery and the ancient fight for survival by the Vestal Virgin. I'm looking forward to reading the other novels in this series.
January 19, 2019
Similar to Dan Brown’s boos
I rather enjoyed this first book in this series. I like Dan Brown and this is similar as to the author includes real people and real places to make the story come alive. The characters were strong, especially India, and some you rooted for their death. I think because mine was a digital copy, the editing may have gone a tad overboard, but that’s just me. 😝
The storyline was well done, who would think that a Pagan goddess would still have followers in the 21st century? The story built up as to how Rubria came to become a Vestal Virgin, how the Temple of Vesta came to be continued and how a group of people could be used so horribly that even they had no clue. Or, did they?
The 4 stars are because some of the ending could be figured out. I guess this comes from reading books like these.
IF YOU ARE BOTHERED BY ANY QUESTION OF YOUR RELIGION, then you won’t like this book. If you don’t like your religion being given other ideas of how it came to be, then you may not like this book.
However, if you like Dan Brown or enjoy true history entwined with some fiction, then this book may be one in a series you enjoy.
*** this few is mine, and mine alone. This book was free via www.bookbub.com. I did purchase the rest of the series with my own money and at no discount. I have no gain or loss with a good or bad review. This is my review*****
I rather enjoyed this first book in this series. I like Dan Brown and this is similar as to the author includes real people and real places to make the story come alive. The characters were strong, especially India, and some you rooted for their death. I think because mine was a digital copy, the editing may have gone a tad overboard, but that’s just me. 😝
The storyline was well done, who would think that a Pagan goddess would still have followers in the 21st century? The story built up as to how Rubria came to become a Vestal Virgin, how the Temple of Vesta came to be continued and how a group of people could be used so horribly that even they had no clue. Or, did they?
The 4 stars are because some of the ending could be figured out. I guess this comes from reading books like these.
IF YOU ARE BOTHERED BY ANY QUESTION OF YOUR RELIGION, then you won’t like this book. If you don’t like your religion being given other ideas of how it came to be, then you may not like this book.
However, if you like Dan Brown or enjoy true history entwined with some fiction, then this book may be one in a series you enjoy.
*** this few is mine, and mine alone. This book was free via www.bookbub.com. I did purchase the rest of the series with my own money and at no discount. I have no gain or loss with a good or bad review. This is my review*****
May 11, 2020
This historical fiction novel was first released in 2012 under the title, The Dead Virgins.
The story is told in two intertwined timelines, commencing in Rome 54AD and in alternating chapters, current time. The story starts in Rome 54AD, as little 8 year old Rubria plays with her dolly unaware that her life is about to change forever. In modern times a young girl is snatched from her family in the busy streets of London. A member of her family is a high profile politician, sparking thoughts of an abduction for ransom, but no ransom demand is made. As Brandon and India race to find the little girl, they are taken on a journey with strong connections to Rubria's story, which are expertly woven together.
I wish history had been this interesting at school. This novel gave a vibrant, colourful insight into life in ancient Rome. I certainly learned of many true facts relating to The cult of the Great Mother, the Flooding of the Black Sea, The Palladium, The Samothrace Mysteries and the role of The Vestal Virgins who were an important part of Roman society.
I enjoyed this book although I felt it was a bit far fetched in places. In my opinion it certainly had a flavour of The Davinci Code and was a fast moving and action packed novel which I would recommend.
The story is told in two intertwined timelines, commencing in Rome 54AD and in alternating chapters, current time. The story starts in Rome 54AD, as little 8 year old Rubria plays with her dolly unaware that her life is about to change forever. In modern times a young girl is snatched from her family in the busy streets of London. A member of her family is a high profile politician, sparking thoughts of an abduction for ransom, but no ransom demand is made. As Brandon and India race to find the little girl, they are taken on a journey with strong connections to Rubria's story, which are expertly woven together.
I wish history had been this interesting at school. This novel gave a vibrant, colourful insight into life in ancient Rome. I certainly learned of many true facts relating to The cult of the Great Mother, the Flooding of the Black Sea, The Palladium, The Samothrace Mysteries and the role of The Vestal Virgins who were an important part of Roman society.
I enjoyed this book although I felt it was a bit far fetched in places. In my opinion it certainly had a flavour of The Davinci Code and was a fast moving and action packed novel which I would recommend.
June 20, 2020
I was so intrigued by this novel. Ancient history meets modern mystery? YES! Sign me up!
However, the modern mystery is a bit convoluted and goes on too long. One person goes here, they eat food, another goes there, more food eating, one gets shot for no reason, lengthy descriptions of food, another starts torture shooting someone, someone goes clothes shopping, women get raped (fade-to-back or mentioned), etc. The threads between the stories became more frayed as the modern elements kept adding unnecessary layers.
I wasn't a huge fan of the main characters. India is smart, but she's also immature. And everyone asks really dumb questions. When its clear someone is about to get shot, there's the typical "what do you plan to do with me?" "you're not really going to shoot me are you?" multiple questions of this nature until you want to smack the character over the head to see how dense they truly are. Some trimming of throw-away lines would have been welcome.
I'll probably Audible "read" more of the series because Egypt is on the horizon (book 3) but I hope the plots of future novels are tightened up. This is a genre I really enjoy, and I hope there's more character depth in book 2.
However, the modern mystery is a bit convoluted and goes on too long. One person goes here, they eat food, another goes there, more food eating, one gets shot for no reason, lengthy descriptions of food, another starts torture shooting someone, someone goes clothes shopping, women get raped (fade-to-back or mentioned), etc. The threads between the stories became more frayed as the modern elements kept adding unnecessary layers.
I wasn't a huge fan of the main characters. India is smart, but she's also immature. And everyone asks really dumb questions. When its clear someone is about to get shot, there's the typical "what do you plan to do with me?" "you're not really going to shoot me are you?" multiple questions of this nature until you want to smack the character over the head to see how dense they truly are. Some trimming of throw-away lines would have been welcome.
I'll probably Audible "read" more of the series because Egypt is on the horizon (book 3) but I hope the plots of future novels are tightened up. This is a genre I really enjoy, and I hope there's more character depth in book 2.
February 7, 2017
When I first began reading this book I was a bit confused. I loved the story arc that was happening in the past. What confused me the most was more of what did that have to do with a missing young girl and the murders. That was the only aspect which made it difficult to read...trying to figure out what one had to do with the other.
As far as the exact mystery went I was kept on the edge of my seat. Each time I thought I knew who the bad guy was they would get themselves killed. Needless to say, it was a rollercoaster of a ride throughout the book and, ya know what? I believe that is what makes for a great mystery.
I found the to main characters in the story were well thought out and you could tell that a chemistry was beginning to mix between them. They certainly worked well together. There was not one character that I can think of that I did not think fit. I also enjoyed the little twist. And no I am not going to even hint as to what it is. That would just take the fun out of it for you.
Overall it was a great book that satisfied my love for historical fiction and mystery. I look forward to reading more and will now be following him to learn more.
As far as the exact mystery went I was kept on the edge of my seat. Each time I thought I knew who the bad guy was they would get themselves killed. Needless to say, it was a rollercoaster of a ride throughout the book and, ya know what? I believe that is what makes for a great mystery.
I found the to main characters in the story were well thought out and you could tell that a chemistry was beginning to mix between them. They certainly worked well together. There was not one character that I can think of that I did not think fit. I also enjoyed the little twist. And no I am not going to even hint as to what it is. That would just take the fun out of it for you.
Overall it was a great book that satisfied my love for historical fiction and mystery. I look forward to reading more and will now be following him to learn more.
September 30, 2018
This was an absorbing read. I love to read historical fiction and love mysteries almost as much, so the combination of history and mystery in this novel was a fabulous mix. I already knew a little of the ancient cult of the Vestal Virgins, and by the end of this novel feel I know more but will need to find time to authenticate it - so well was this fictional story written that it appears entirely reliable.
The threads of the Ancient Roman story and that of the contemporary investigators blend well in this rapid search in different European locations for the ‘Palladium’, a long lost ancient artefact. The main characters of India and Brandon are portrayed in a way that allows India’s historical knowledge to shine, and Brandon’s ‘military’ expertise seem realistic without being domineering as they interact. There are some other lovely characters but since I don’t do spoilers, I won’t mention their involvement towards the end of the story- suffice to say as I read towards the end, I gulped at the scenes I was envisaging.
My already large kindle pile will be added to with the next India and Brandon adventures.
The threads of the Ancient Roman story and that of the contemporary investigators blend well in this rapid search in different European locations for the ‘Palladium’, a long lost ancient artefact. The main characters of India and Brandon are portrayed in a way that allows India’s historical knowledge to shine, and Brandon’s ‘military’ expertise seem realistic without being domineering as they interact. There are some other lovely characters but since I don’t do spoilers, I won’t mention their involvement towards the end of the story- suffice to say as I read towards the end, I gulped at the scenes I was envisaging.
My already large kindle pile will be added to with the next India and Brandon adventures.
May 19, 2024
India Sommers is a librarian and a talented historian, so when a stranger asks her opinion on an ancient coin she is happy to oblige but when the same man is murdered less than an hour later, it soon becomes apparent that there is far more to the situation than meets the eye. Recognising her unique talents for historical reference, she is quickly recruited by Brandon Walker, a Security Service intelligence officer investigating the strange disappearance of a very special young girl. As the facts unravel, they realize that an ancient artefact linked to the cult of the Vestal Virgins from ancient Rome may hold the key to her whereabouts and Brandon draws on India's vast historical knowledge to unravel clues that date right back through history to the time of the great flood. Slowly, the full horror and mind blowing truth of what they have discovered becomes clear and they become involved in a race against time in a horrific and shocking finale.
April 20, 2021
Reasoning seems faulty
Why would you look at the past of an object when trying to find a missing girl? If your only clue is unique jewelry, shouldn't you look for places where one would get one? But that is what happened in the book. I just can't understand that!
The history seemed quite well researched. Same places felt like India is making assumptions of her own but she still lectured those assumptions as if those were facts.
Brandon's personality doesn't really ring as a soldier type but what really stunned me is when he and India are attacked at his house and a fire broke out there was no mention of his mom, even if before the author wrote it as if she resided there.
There is a place where instead of India's name it was typed Rubria.
It was for stuff like this that this book got a 3 stars. Feeled like an empty book that was read in order to pass the time.
Why would you look at the past of an object when trying to find a missing girl? If your only clue is unique jewelry, shouldn't you look for places where one would get one? But that is what happened in the book. I just can't understand that!
The history seemed quite well researched. Same places felt like India is making assumptions of her own but she still lectured those assumptions as if those were facts.
Brandon's personality doesn't really ring as a soldier type but what really stunned me is when he and India are attacked at his house and a fire broke out there was no mention of his mom, even if before the author wrote it as if she resided there.
There is a place where instead of India's name it was typed Rubria.
It was for stuff like this that this book got a 3 stars. Feeled like an empty book that was read in order to pass the time.
July 11, 2018
Others have called this a Da Vinci Clone; it certainly is a "great true secrets behind Christianity" story but the most obvious way is the annoying Langdon-esque way the heroine India lectures about various speculations on mythological links as if they were fact. I kept waiting for her to say that "symbology" showed the links. Luckily, India is temporarily out of the picture for the middle of the book and the pace picks up. Watching how the various subplots intertwine is interesting.
Others have pointed out some of the errors of mythological connections in India's smug summations. I just want to point out that it was Caligula, not Nero, who wanted to make his horse a senator. This was such a basic error that I almost stopped reading.
Others have pointed out some of the errors of mythological connections in India's smug summations. I just want to point out that it was Caligula, not Nero, who wanted to make his horse a senator. This was such a basic error that I almost stopped reading.
August 6, 2020
India is a librarian, with a particular interest in history and coins. A man comes in with an unusual coin and asks for her help to identify it, but as he leaves the library he is attacked. The library is then set on fire as someone is trying to obtain the coin from the library safe.
India is swept into a world she has never experienced, as a military guy involves her in a wild tale of missing girls and ancient artefacts, all surrounding the story of the goddess Vesta. Linked in to their story is the story of Rubria who was a Vestal Virgin at the time of Nero in Rome. The two stories link very well and the transitions are well handled.
Overall a good read, with only a few weak links. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more about India Summers.
India is swept into a world she has never experienced, as a military guy involves her in a wild tale of missing girls and ancient artefacts, all surrounding the story of the goddess Vesta. Linked in to their story is the story of Rubria who was a Vestal Virgin at the time of Nero in Rome. The two stories link very well and the transitions are well handled.
Overall a good read, with only a few weak links. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more about India Summers.
February 19, 2021
A historical mystery based on the Pagan Goddess Vesta. Set in Rome at the time of Nero and his burning of the city. The second mystery, the abduction of the niece of the Prime Minister in current times.
India Sommers is drawn into the mystery by a visitor at the library who is trying to identify a coin. She joins with Brandon Walker, SAS to find the murderer and the abducted child.
Well researched. Though this is my least favorite story format, two stories told in alternating chapters. I was rewarded with the fascinating twists and turns of an interesting plot.
India Sommers is drawn into the mystery by a visitor at the library who is trying to identify a coin. She joins with Brandon Walker, SAS to find the murderer and the abducted child.
Well researched. Though this is my least favorite story format, two stories told in alternating chapters. I was rewarded with the fascinating twists and turns of an interesting plot.
April 22, 2022
What a great topic, the Vestals of Rome - could’ve been fascinating, but too little actual historical material, with too much unbelievable and simplistic present day detection. Even the writing was inelegant, every word spelled out, even in dialogue, where contractions would’ve added to the flow. It was a good idea, young girls disappearing, then connected to the Vestals, but it ended by being awkward, feeling incomplete.
August 29, 2025
Not normally my sort of book, but it was the only one I could download to my Kindle while on holiday. However, once I started reading it I thoroughly enjoyed it. It begins in London then moves to Ancient Rome. It tells the story of an ancient artefact brought into a library for identification then moves to Rome where a young girl is about to leave her parents to become a Vestal Virgin.
Many twists and turns, a good read
Many twists and turns, a good read
February 26, 2020
The SAS librarian
India Summers is a great character and in partnership with the SAS ‘s Brandon make a good detective team. I like the mixture of historic fact and obvious fictional story. A cult more secretive than the masons with tentacles that seem to cross the world. A cult that seemed to have a Christian face.
India Summers is a great character and in partnership with the SAS ‘s Brandon make a good detective team. I like the mixture of historic fact and obvious fictional story. A cult more secretive than the masons with tentacles that seem to cross the world. A cult that seemed to have a Christian face.
April 22, 2020
Brilliant book, thoroughly enjoyed this from start to finish. Loved that you have a story from the past running at the same time as the present. Great characters and superb twists and kept me turning the page and wanting more. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I am a great Dan Brown fan and in my opinion this is on par.
May 10, 2020
Mysterious
I love conspiracies. They are all based on truth. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, although I am not religious in any way. I liked the way the book is written, the way people really do talk to each other. I look forward to reading the next book. Thank you for keeping me up until silly o'clock.
I love conspiracies. They are all based on truth. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, although I am not religious in any way. I liked the way the book is written, the way people really do talk to each other. I look forward to reading the next book. Thank you for keeping me up until silly o'clock.
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June 27, 2020great read
i am not a great fan of historical books (growing up in family of 2 historians my mum and dad who would talk nonstop about history) but i really enjoyed this historical fiction story... easy to read, style of writing just up my street... atmospheric when story goes thousands years back... ok. of to the next one!
i am not a great fan of historical books (growing up in family of 2 historians my mum and dad who would talk nonstop about history) but i really enjoyed this historical fiction story... easy to read, style of writing just up my street... atmospheric when story goes thousands years back... ok. of to the next one!
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