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The Second Stone: A Conspiracy Thriller
Johan Vandermeer’s groundbreaking thesis becomes the catalyst for an international conspiracy that stretches across academia, religion, and espionage.
As an abduction near a Sydney school unfurls, Johan’s captors, led by a team of ruthless operatives who work for a secret Judaeo-Christian organisation, demand he retract his controversial work and return stolen Vatican materials.
Detective John Costas chases down leads as the body count climbs, but faces frustration and dead ends.
EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS a breathtaking story of faith, loyalty, and the perilous consequences of unearthing dangerous truths.
“Bolstered by a slick cast of investigators, operatives, and problematic men of the cloth, this complex and disquieting novel has a deeper purpose than plot-driven action, resulting in a timely, educational, and provocative read. This meticulously plotted thriller is an engrossing study of the contemporary ties of religion, politics, power, and belief that continue to drive much of the world today, while still reading at a blistering pace.” ~ The Independent Review of Books
“…full of action… one can say that its pace is vigorous.” ~ Kirkus Reviews
As an abduction near a Sydney school unfurls, Johan’s captors, led by a team of ruthless operatives who work for a secret Judaeo-Christian organisation, demand he retract his controversial work and return stolen Vatican materials.
Detective John Costas chases down leads as the body count climbs, but faces frustration and dead ends.
EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS a breathtaking story of faith, loyalty, and the perilous consequences of unearthing dangerous truths.
“Bolstered by a slick cast of investigators, operatives, and problematic men of the cloth, this complex and disquieting novel has a deeper purpose than plot-driven action, resulting in a timely, educational, and provocative read. This meticulously plotted thriller is an engrossing study of the contemporary ties of religion, politics, power, and belief that continue to drive much of the world today, while still reading at a blistering pace.” ~ The Independent Review of Books
“…full of action… one can say that its pace is vigorous.” ~ Kirkus Reviews
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2024
2 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 30, 2025
If you're into conspiracy thrillers that dive deep into religion, power, and hidden agendas, "The Second Stone" by Eddie Russell delivers. It kicks off with a pretty unique setup—Johan Vandermeer, an academic, writes a thesis so controversial it lands him in danger. From there, things escalate fast diving into kidnappings, Vatican secrets, and a hidden religious organization pulling the strings behind the scenes.
What I liked most is that it isn’t just action for action’s sake. There’s real weight behind what’s happening. The book explores how faith, politics, and loyalty can twist into something dangerous when institutions cling too tightly to control. Detective John Costas, the guy chasing down the truth, adds grit and urgency to the story. The story ably offers big questions, sharp twists, and a pace that never really lets up.
It reminded me a bit of Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code" but with more depth and less flash. The writing is thoughtful without slowing down the plot, and the characters especially the morally conflicted ones like Johan Vandermeer, whose pursuit of truth endangers him; Detective John Costas, who must navigate between justice and institutional silence; and even some of the priests and operatives torn between faith and duty, that give the story its real emotional weight. If you're into thrillers that keep your brain engaged while still giving you that page-turning tension, this is one to check out.
What I liked most is that it isn’t just action for action’s sake. There’s real weight behind what’s happening. The book explores how faith, politics, and loyalty can twist into something dangerous when institutions cling too tightly to control. Detective John Costas, the guy chasing down the truth, adds grit and urgency to the story. The story ably offers big questions, sharp twists, and a pace that never really lets up.
It reminded me a bit of Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code" but with more depth and less flash. The writing is thoughtful without slowing down the plot, and the characters especially the morally conflicted ones like Johan Vandermeer, whose pursuit of truth endangers him; Detective John Costas, who must navigate between justice and institutional silence; and even some of the priests and operatives torn between faith and duty, that give the story its real emotional weight. If you're into thrillers that keep your brain engaged while still giving you that page-turning tension, this is one to check out.
June 22, 2025
Admittedly, the book starts pretty rough, and Eddie is getting comfortable with the characters and the worldbuilding. Overall, towards the end of the quarter, it begins to take shape and is an enjoyable read. If one critique I do have, it’s a bit one-dimensional at the start, but given that it seems to be a new series, it’s acceptable, as the book goes along, things flesh out again. Please don’t take it as the book being bad, it’s a good read as you go along, and I do have to say that the plot is a unique one that I never read before to be honest, and found it refreshing how a simple plot can turn into a complex story of murder, some mayhem, and so on. It’s a good read once you start feeling the characters, and Eddie does deliver with this book. The only thing I “didn’t like” was that it’s a series, and not a one-shot book. Which is fine, but I’m more or less eager to read the next book in the series, so I would recommend picking this one up.
June 30, 2025
An academic named Johan Vandermeer finds himself in Australia, working on a factually correct thesis on Judeo-Christianity. What lies ahead of him, however, is full of challenges. Nothing in the first chapter hints at what is to come, but Dr. Johan is determined to dig deep into 2,000 years of history and prove that murdering conspirators does not absolve anyone from guilt.
The story includes a rich retrospection of history, meaningful and high-quality academic conversations, and a pivotal moment in a synagogue where plans begin to take shape. A mysterious abduction gradually reveals a complex plot, all set in motion by the thesis itself. The narrative is wonderfully developed and, most importantly, does not favor one belief over another. Instead, it sheds light on the chronology and psychology behind events and actions.
The character of Rabbi Schneider is equally fascinating. The book also explores social phenomena and the interpretation of active beliefs, examining the reactions they provoke in defenders and attackers alike. Martin, who visits the Jewish temple to honor his deceased wife, soon finds himself in serious trouble. As events spiral, the plot becomes increasingly complex, involving violence, murder, and conspiracy.
Set against the backdrop of a German diaspora in Sydney, the story is as intriguing as it is intense. The book is enthralling, the buildup is superb, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
The story includes a rich retrospection of history, meaningful and high-quality academic conversations, and a pivotal moment in a synagogue where plans begin to take shape. A mysterious abduction gradually reveals a complex plot, all set in motion by the thesis itself. The narrative is wonderfully developed and, most importantly, does not favor one belief over another. Instead, it sheds light on the chronology and psychology behind events and actions.
The character of Rabbi Schneider is equally fascinating. The book also explores social phenomena and the interpretation of active beliefs, examining the reactions they provoke in defenders and attackers alike. Martin, who visits the Jewish temple to honor his deceased wife, soon finds himself in serious trouble. As events spiral, the plot becomes increasingly complex, involving violence, murder, and conspiracy.
Set against the backdrop of a German diaspora in Sydney, the story is as intriguing as it is intense. The book is enthralling, the buildup is superb, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
July 2, 2025
Eddie Russell crafts a thoughtful and fast-paced conspiracy thriller that seamlessly blends religious history, academic peril, and investigative grit. The story pivots around Johan Vandermeer, whose scholarly thesis ignites an international firestorm. What begins as a controversial academic argument swiftly spirals into an abduction, covert threats, and Vatican secrets—all orchestrated by a secretive Judaeo-Christian organization determined to silence inconvenient truths.
What makes this novel stand out is its balance between high-octane suspense and thematic depth. The plot maintains breakneck momentum while tackling complex ideas about faith, institutional power, and the cost of truth-telling. Detective John Costas emerges as a grounded counterforce to the mystery's escalating violence, navigating dead ends and mounting pressure with weary tenacity.
Russell excels at developing morally conflicted characters, from Johan’s unshakable commitment to truth to the operatives and clergy ensnared in ethical dilemmas. These figures lend emotional resonance to a story already rich in theological and philosophical inquiry. With taut pacing and layered storytelling, the novel invites comparisons to the likes of Umberto Eco and Robert Harris while maintaining its own distinctive voice.
Readers who enjoy conspiracy thrillers that involve religion, history, and ethics will likely find this a rewarding and thoughtful read.
What makes this novel stand out is its balance between high-octane suspense and thematic depth. The plot maintains breakneck momentum while tackling complex ideas about faith, institutional power, and the cost of truth-telling. Detective John Costas emerges as a grounded counterforce to the mystery's escalating violence, navigating dead ends and mounting pressure with weary tenacity.
Russell excels at developing morally conflicted characters, from Johan’s unshakable commitment to truth to the operatives and clergy ensnared in ethical dilemmas. These figures lend emotional resonance to a story already rich in theological and philosophical inquiry. With taut pacing and layered storytelling, the novel invites comparisons to the likes of Umberto Eco and Robert Harris while maintaining its own distinctive voice.
Readers who enjoy conspiracy thrillers that involve religion, history, and ethics will likely find this a rewarding and thoughtful read.
June 24, 2025
"The Second Stone" by Eddie Russell is a thriller that blends mystery, religion, and the high stakes of a global conspiracy into a story that’s hard to put down. From the first pages, I was hooked by Johan Vandermeer, a brilliant scholar whose big discovery doesn’t just earn him praise—it makes him a target.
What I really liked about "The Second Stone" is how it makes you think about what you would do if you uncovered a truth so powerful it could shake faith and power structures around the world. Would you hide it? Share it? Fight to protect it? I’ve never faced anything like Johan’s situation, but I’ve had moments in life—like standing up for an unpopular truth at work or defending what I believe in—that made this story feel relatable on a smaller scale.
I also appreciated how the book treats big topics—religion, politics, and human flaws—without ever feeling preachy. I think this makes it powerful for both adults and even curious younger readers who love mysteries.
"The Second Stone" is for anyone who enjoys a smart thriller that goes beyond explosions and gunfights. It’s an adventure that dares you to wonder: How far would you go to protect the truth? This story left me thinking about that long after I turned the last page.
What I really liked about "The Second Stone" is how it makes you think about what you would do if you uncovered a truth so powerful it could shake faith and power structures around the world. Would you hide it? Share it? Fight to protect it? I’ve never faced anything like Johan’s situation, but I’ve had moments in life—like standing up for an unpopular truth at work or defending what I believe in—that made this story feel relatable on a smaller scale.
I also appreciated how the book treats big topics—religion, politics, and human flaws—without ever feeling preachy. I think this makes it powerful for both adults and even curious younger readers who love mysteries.
"The Second Stone" is for anyone who enjoys a smart thriller that goes beyond explosions and gunfights. It’s an adventure that dares you to wonder: How far would you go to protect the truth? This story left me thinking about that long after I turned the last page.
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July 11, 2025Eddie Russell’s new action thriller, The Second Stone: A Conspiracy Thriller, is an intense ride, full of twists and turns, and sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats!
The story follows disillusioned academic, Dr. Johan Vandermeer, in his attempts to elevate his scholarly status from a moderate success to renown researcher. However, when Johan finds his opportunity for crowning achievement, a controversial discovery of theological inconsistencies within the Judeo-Christian history, his fight for fame becomes one for survival.
The Second Stone follows a fast-paced plot, and is nearly impossible to put down. With a similar writing style as Dan Brown and Thomas Harris, Eddie Russell creates palpable intensity and distant reach in Johan’s dilemma with the conspiracy spanning across continents, timelines, and belief systems. I found myself asking, on several occasions, “what if?”
Amidst efforts to censor Johan’s findings, a high authority within the church expressed his thoughts on immorality as, “in…the house of the Vicar of Christ, we measure our actions by their worth and wisdom before the eyes of the Lord, not by some manmade rule of thumb.” What if that was true? The possibilities of storylines like Russell’s, being true is what separates good books from the great books. This is one of the great ones and I look forward to reading more from this author!
The story follows disillusioned academic, Dr. Johan Vandermeer, in his attempts to elevate his scholarly status from a moderate success to renown researcher. However, when Johan finds his opportunity for crowning achievement, a controversial discovery of theological inconsistencies within the Judeo-Christian history, his fight for fame becomes one for survival.
The Second Stone follows a fast-paced plot, and is nearly impossible to put down. With a similar writing style as Dan Brown and Thomas Harris, Eddie Russell creates palpable intensity and distant reach in Johan’s dilemma with the conspiracy spanning across continents, timelines, and belief systems. I found myself asking, on several occasions, “what if?”
Amidst efforts to censor Johan’s findings, a high authority within the church expressed his thoughts on immorality as, “in…the house of the Vicar of Christ, we measure our actions by their worth and wisdom before the eyes of the Lord, not by some manmade rule of thumb.” What if that was true? The possibilities of storylines like Russell’s, being true is what separates good books from the great books. This is one of the great ones and I look forward to reading more from this author!
June 20, 2025
Detective John Costas enters the fray as bodies drop and clues dissolve. His investigation is both methodical and maddening, a testament to the author’s skill in portraying the frustration and limitations of modern law enforcement when pitted against centuries-old secrecy and institutional power.
What truly elevates this book above your standard conspiracy novel is its thoughtful exploration of faith, loyalty, and the institutional machinery that guards dogma. The narrative is rich with philosophical underpinnings without ever losing its pulse. Every twist is meaningful, every revelation earned.
The character roster, from battle-hardened operatives to ethically ambiguous clergy, adds depth and texture. The dialogue is sharp, the settings vividly described, and the tension expertly maintained. Vandermeer’s work is provocative, timely, and, at times, uncomfortably plausible.
A brain-shaking thriller that refuses to dumb itself down. Perfect for fans of Umberto Eco or Robert Harris, this novel delivers explosive action grounded in theological and historical nuance. A bold, blistering debut that will linger long after the final page.
What truly elevates this book above your standard conspiracy novel is its thoughtful exploration of faith, loyalty, and the institutional machinery that guards dogma. The narrative is rich with philosophical underpinnings without ever losing its pulse. Every twist is meaningful, every revelation earned.
The character roster, from battle-hardened operatives to ethically ambiguous clergy, adds depth and texture. The dialogue is sharp, the settings vividly described, and the tension expertly maintained. Vandermeer’s work is provocative, timely, and, at times, uncomfortably plausible.
A brain-shaking thriller that refuses to dumb itself down. Perfect for fans of Umberto Eco or Robert Harris, this novel delivers explosive action grounded in theological and historical nuance. A bold, blistering debut that will linger long after the final page.
June 27, 2025
The Second Stone completely surprised me—in the best way. I went in expecting a fast-paced thriller, and while it delivered on the action, what really hooked me were the questions it asked. What happens when you uncover something so big, so dangerous, that it could shake everything people believe in? I found myself thinking about that long after I put the book down. Johan’s journey felt intense, but also strangely personal—I kept asking myself what I would’ve done in his place.
Eddie Russell doesn’t just tell a story; he pulls you into a world where belief, power, and truth collide. The pacing starts slow but ramps up quickly, and once I was in, I couldn’t stop. It’s one of those books that makes you sit with the weight of every twist, every decision, and every consequence. I didn’t just read it—I experienced it.
This book is perfect for fans of thrillers who love moral complexity and gray areas. It’s also a great pick for readers who enjoy philosophical or religious themes wrapped in suspense. And if you're someone who likes uncovering hidden truths and questioning everything, *The Second Stone* will absolutely keep you turning pages.
Eddie Russell doesn’t just tell a story; he pulls you into a world where belief, power, and truth collide. The pacing starts slow but ramps up quickly, and once I was in, I couldn’t stop. It’s one of those books that makes you sit with the weight of every twist, every decision, and every consequence. I didn’t just read it—I experienced it.
This book is perfect for fans of thrillers who love moral complexity and gray areas. It’s also a great pick for readers who enjoy philosophical or religious themes wrapped in suspense. And if you're someone who likes uncovering hidden truths and questioning everything, *The Second Stone* will absolutely keep you turning pages.
July 4, 2025
"The Second Stone: A Conspiracy Thriller" is an absolute page-turner that delivers on all fronts. From the gripping plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat to its well-rounded narrative, this book is a masterclass in suspense. The story kicks off with Johan Vandermeer's groundbreaking thesis becoming the catalyst for an international conspiracy, spanning academia, religion, and espionage. When an abduction near a Sydney school unfolds, Johan's captors, ruthless operatives of a secret Judaeo-Christian organization, demand he retract his controversial work and return stolen Vatican materials. Detective John Costas finds himself chasing down leads as the body count climbs, but is met with constant frustration and dead ends in this web of faith, loyalty, and dangerous truths. Russell proves himself a phenomenal writer, expertly weaving a tale that is both intricate and impossible to put down. His characters are incredibly well-developed and genuinely engaging, making you root for them (or against them!) with every twist. If you're looking for a read that will get your blood pumping and leave you eagerly anticipating the author's next work, then "The Second Stone" is an absolute must-read. I'm already looking forward to diving into more of Russell's books!
July 3, 2025
A Smart, Suspenseful Read for Thriller Fans
I picked up The Second Stone fully expecting to be lost somewhere between a Latin phrase and a theological rabbit hole—and honestly, I wasn’t wrong. This book has more twists than a papal conclave and enough action to make your rosary beads rattle.
It’s not my usual cup of tea (I prefer mine with a splash of gentle character development and maybe a dog named Mabel), but I’ll admit: it was a wild ride. An added bonus? You can finish it in a weekend! Johan Vandermeer, our scholarly hero, somehow finds himself at the center of a global conspiracy, stolen Vatican documents, and a missing children investigation. Casual Tuesday, am I right?
The plot moves fast—like “wait, where are we now?” fast—and Detective Costas is the gritty counterpart to Vandermeer’s bookish panic. If you’re into high-stakes thrillers with globe-trotting, cryptic secrets, and just enough danger to make you clutch your pearls, this book is for you.
For me? I survived. For thriller fans? Four stars, easily.
I picked up The Second Stone fully expecting to be lost somewhere between a Latin phrase and a theological rabbit hole—and honestly, I wasn’t wrong. This book has more twists than a papal conclave and enough action to make your rosary beads rattle.
It’s not my usual cup of tea (I prefer mine with a splash of gentle character development and maybe a dog named Mabel), but I’ll admit: it was a wild ride. An added bonus? You can finish it in a weekend! Johan Vandermeer, our scholarly hero, somehow finds himself at the center of a global conspiracy, stolen Vatican documents, and a missing children investigation. Casual Tuesday, am I right?
The plot moves fast—like “wait, where are we now?” fast—and Detective Costas is the gritty counterpart to Vandermeer’s bookish panic. If you’re into high-stakes thrillers with globe-trotting, cryptic secrets, and just enough danger to make you clutch your pearls, this book is for you.
For me? I survived. For thriller fans? Four stars, easily.
June 22, 2025
The Second Stone is a fast-paced, thought-provoking thriller that pulls you into a world where religion, academia, and espionage collide. The story kicks off when Johan Vandermeer’s controversial thesis stirs up trouble at the highest levels, leading to his abduction by a secretive religious organization with ties to the Vatican. From there, things spiral into a tense, globe-spanning mystery packed with hidden agendas, ancient secrets, and plenty of twists. Johan is a compelling protagonist, and the stakes feel real as he’s forced to confront powerful forces trying to silence him. Meanwhile, Detective John Costas adds a gritty, grounded layer to the chaos as he follows the trail, trying to piece it all together. Eddie Russell does a great job balancing action with deeper questions about truth, belief, and control. If you're into Dan Brown-style thrillers but want something a little more original and grounded, this is definitely worth picking up.
July 4, 2025
This book surprised me in the best way—it’s smart, intense, and full of twists. It starts with Johan Vandermeer, a scholar whose research hits a nerve so big, it sets off a global conspiracy involving religious groups, secret agents, and stolen Vatican secrets. From there, things spiral fast. He’s kidnapped, interrogated, and caught in a web way bigger than he ever imagined.
Detective John Costas is the other key player here, and his part of the story adds a gritty crime-thriller layer that really works. He’s chasing leads while people keep turning up dead, and you can feel his frustration as the puzzle gets more tangled.
What I liked most is that, beyond the suspense and action, the story really dives into themes like belief, truth, and power. It challenges you to think while keeping the tension high. If you’re into thrillers that mix religion, politics, and real-world questions with fast pacing, this one’s for you.
Detective John Costas is the other key player here, and his part of the story adds a gritty crime-thriller layer that really works. He’s chasing leads while people keep turning up dead, and you can feel his frustration as the puzzle gets more tangled.
What I liked most is that, beyond the suspense and action, the story really dives into themes like belief, truth, and power. It challenges you to think while keeping the tension high. If you’re into thrillers that mix religion, politics, and real-world questions with fast pacing, this one’s for you.
June 27, 2025
The suspense. The intrigue. The espionage! All of this across international borders. The Second Stone has all of that and more. Eddie Russell wrote a story that has you turning page after page, waiting for the next thing to happen. He intricately blended religion, academia, and police work that had me wanting more. You can watch the action unfold as you read about the far off places the story takes place in. It was a thrilling ride to walk in the shoes of so many different characters from a professor to a gun for hire to a detective. Russell hit home as he discussed social problems along with the ‘international conspiracy’ Johan, the protagonist uncovered. If you are looking for a book that will make you feel like you are watching a spy movie then you need to pick up The Second Stone. One of the easiest five star reviews I’ve ever written!
June 30, 2025
The Second Stone: A Conspiracy Thriller by Eddie Russell was suspenseful and leaves you wanting more. You find yourself hanging on a thread as you follow a police officer trying to find answers and all he ends up with is more questions. The detail in this book pulls you in and gets you feel for the characters… their fear, their happiness, and their frustration. You will be cheering on the characters and exasperated by others. I felt that I had to keep reading. It just keeps pulling you along.
The storyline was intriguing and none stop. The author’s writing brings the book to life. The imagery plays in your head like a show. Each chapter being another episode. When you get to the end of the book, you are ready for season two. If you are looking for a book to get entangled and emersed into a story, this the book for you.
The storyline was intriguing and none stop. The author’s writing brings the book to life. The imagery plays in your head like a show. Each chapter being another episode. When you get to the end of the book, you are ready for season two. If you are looking for a book to get entangled and emersed into a story, this the book for you.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews