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Vatican Secret Archive #9

The Apostle Conspiracy

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Amid the grandeur of the Vatican, the bones of Saint Peter—the Church’s most sacred relics—hold secrets that could reshape its history. Father Michael Dominic, Prefect of the Vatican Secret Archives, uncovers a mysterious, nearly forgotten inscription linking Linus, Saint Peter’s first successor, to foundational decisions that shaped the early Church. What begins as a scholarly exploration of Linus’s legacy quickly turns into an urgent quest to protect the truth. With the help of Vatican archaeologist Marcus Russo, Michael follows cryptic clues buried deep within the Archives, revealing Linus as a pivotal yet hidden architect of the faith—and uncovering a history the Church may not be ready to face.

But Michael’s work draws the attention of Elliot Voss, a shadowy and powerful figure obsessed with the bones of Saint Peter. For Voss, the relics are more than sacred artifacts; they are a path to immortality and ultimate control. His dangerous ambition drives him to manipulate and deceive, drawing Michael into a web of intrigue where every revelation is a potential threat to the sanctity of the Church. Voss’s relentless pursuit of power forces Michael to confront the darker side of faith and the fragility of legacy, as the sacred bones become the centerpiece of a deadly game.

As Michael and Marcus uncover Linus’s hidden legacy and navigate the peril surrounding Saint Peter’s relics, their discoveries bring more questions than answers. Meanwhile, Michael’s evolving relationship with Hana Sinclair takes an unexpected turn, challenging his convictions and forcing him to face personal truths as profound as the mysteries he’s working to unravel. Set against the shadowy intrigue of the Vatican, this gripping novel explores the tension between history and faith, power and preservation—where even the holiest of relics can become the battleground for humanity’s greatest struggles.

294 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2024

537 people are currently reading
179 people want to read

About the author

Gary McAvoy

38 books480 followers
Gary McAvoy is an American novelist known for internationally bestselling thrillers that blend historical intrigue, religious scholarship, and modern suspense. A lifelong researcher of rare manuscripts and Church history, he draws on extensive archival study to craft narratives rooted in authentic detail. His work includes the Vatican Secret Archive Thrillers, the Magdalene Chronicles, and the Vatican Archaeology Thrillers. Before turning to fiction, McAvoy built a distinguished career as an entrepreneur, technology consultant, and collector of historical documents. He now writes full time from the Pacific Northwest, where he continues to explore the shadowed crossroads of faith, power, and history.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Matt.
4,838 reviews13.1k followers
December 12, 2024
First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Gary McAvoy returns with another instalment of the Vatican Archives series. The collection has been both strong and highly informative, leading the way throughout various Vatican-based situations and historical anomalies. When Father Michael Dominic is preparing for the anniversary of St. Peter’s bones being laid to rest within the Vatican, he is approached by a wealthy collector who wishes to provide significant funding to the Vatican Archives. However, there is a secret plan in the works to capitalise on some important relics. All the while, Father Dominic uncovers some previously unknown aspects of Peter's role as the Church's first bishop, things that could significantly change how many see the institution and its progress. A stellar addition to the series that shows how dedicated McAvoy is to the subject matter.


While the Vatican has many wonderful pieces of history tucked away, the bones of St. Peter, the Church’s first bishop, hold a special place in the collection. While much is presumed about St. Peter as Christ’s chosen representative to continue on the foundational development of Christianity, new revelations could significant change what the Church knows and its followers believe. Father Michael Dominic, who works diligently as the Prefect of the Vatican Secret Archives, has uncovered something highly mysterious and potentially earth-shattering, depending on the perspective. Might Peter not have been the sole leader of the early Church? How does an obscure message carved in an ancient language shed light on what truly happened in the early years of Christianity?

Working alongside Vatican archaeologist Marcus Russo, Father Dominic follows the clues in the message to uncover the role of Linus in the early Church and how he would be seen, given the notoriety he may have had. These curiosities are only overshadowed when a mysterious collector of ancient relics arrives in Rome with a proposition to finance the Vatican Archives with some significant donations. While Father Dominic is shocked, he feels there must be a catch.

Elliot Voss is more than a collector and sees these relics as anything but ancient items. He has dangerous and mischievous plans as he works on the black market to amass a collection for his private museum in Seattle. While Voss is working on a plot to take possession of Peter’s bones ahead of the 1100th anniversary celebration, Father Dominic has plans of his own to turn that caper on its head. However, both men are determined to get their way and will do whatever it takes to ensure success. McAvoy delivers a gripping novel that has all the elements needed for yet another strong thriller, particularly with the cliffhanger that awaits the dedicated reader!

I have long enjoyed the work of Gary McAvoy, particularly this highly informative series. He is always keen to speculate on issues closely relating to the Catholic Church. The narrative clips along, fuelled by great storytelling and well-developed ideas that propel things forward with ease. McAvoy is keen to educate the reader while also providing wonderful ideas to ponder along the way. Characters prove effective, not only to flavour the narrative, but serve as vessels to properly illustrate many of the key historical events that transpire from chapter to chapter. McAvoy has a way with his selection of individuals, many of whom help add depth to an already strong story. The plot points are well placed and help keep the reader intrigued about what is going on and how it will play a role in the larger narrative. There are also key learning moments that McAvoy uses to shed light on possible truths and deceptive use of fiction to keep the stories strong and wonderfully entertaining.

Kudos. Mr. McAvoy, for a great addition to an already strong series that has never lost its momentum.

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
6 reviews
January 22, 2025
Another Great Read

Great story line! I'm happy for Father Michael and Hana, and always enjoy the historical references at the end of the books.
8 reviews
December 9, 2024
I first came across Gary McAvoy’s writing in 2021, and since then I’ve read all of his books featuring Father Michael Dominic and the Vatican Secret Archives. I just finished The Apostle Conspiracy, the 12th book in the series.

The Apostle Conspiracy delves into the legacy of St. Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles and, according to Catholic tradition, the first Pope. Father Dominic is planning an exhibition of St. Peter’s bones to celebrate the 1100th anniversary of their resanctification. As the Church’s most important relics, these bones are considered the foundation upon which the Church was built. For Elliot Voss, a tech billionaire, the bones represent something else entirely – the potential key to immortality. According to an ancient scroll he had recently discovered, something in St. Peter’s DNA held the secret to cell regeneration and longevity. If he could only get his hands on the bones, his scientific prowess could allow him to achieve immortality and godhood. Of course, the Vatican would never allow anyone to take its most sacred relics and subject them to scientific testing for a sacrilegious goal. Voss works up an elaborate plan to steal the bones during their exhibition under heavy security, but he has to get through Father Dominic, who suspects Voss of nefarious motives and proves to be every bit as shrewd as the tech titan.

Meanwhile, one of Dominic’s colleagues, Marcus Russo, the Vatican’s chief archaeologist, is digging around under St. Peter’s Basilica when he stumbles upon a discovery that could upend two millenia of Church tradition. Tombs and inscriptions are found indicating that perhaps Peter was not the singular rock upon which the Church was built, contrary to Church teachings. There might have been someone else who was a co-leader with Peter, challenging the entire doctrine of papal supremacy. This discovery could potentially re-write the early history of the Church and change its power structure, which would of course threaten certain vested interests. Michael has to tread carefully to not create havoc (i.e. dead bodies) in his search for the truth.

One almost has to feel sorry for Michael Dominic. It seems like every other week the poor priest discovers something that could threaten the very foundations of the Catholic Church, and he’s had to deal with more than his share of cunning villains. His blood pressure should be well into hypertension range, so readers of the Vatican Secret Archives series will be glad to see him finally get his long-awaited happy moment towards the end of the book.

The Apostle Conspiracy was highly enjoyable and well-researched, and Gary McAvoy showed impressive knowledge of ancient languages and the art of forgery. Elliot Voss represents an interesting villain, one whose motives are almost understandable (when one is that successful and has conquered everything in life, it’s hardly surprising that there is a heavy dose of narcissism and a desire to conquer death as well). Indeed, there are tech billionaires today that are funding research into human immortality. Unlike some of McAvoy’s past villains, however, Voss is capable of self-reflection and seems redeemable (unlike, for example, Cardinal Dante). I hope to see Voss return in some capacity in a future book.

Overall, I had a great time reading The Apostle Conspiracy and highly recommend you pick it up.
Profile Image for David N. Moore.
28 reviews
April 19, 2025
This is a “weighty” book.

I read this while flying from Italy to DFW. I started noticing that there were frequent descriptions that started with “the weight of…” . It might be the “weight of centries…” or the “the weight of the upcoming celebration “, or “the weight of the decision…”. I was curious so searched the frequency of the phrase throughout the book. Seventy- two times! I’m an avid fan but was disappointed that the editor missed this! Actually I would have given this fewer stars except for the last chapter. It seemed to me that throughout the book, Gary McAvoy forgot about tension that he had so carefully created between the two main characters. As the book completed, it seemed to me that he suddenly remembered that the tension needed to be addressed. He certainly did that in the final chapter! As a dedicated reader, I’ll continue the series but I think the editor missed on this one. It was probably the result of reading the book in one day that the use of the phrase was so evident.

I began to get the same impression for “ the thrill of…”, but on checking, it occurred only thirteen times.

All will be forgiven if I don’t get the same impression in “The Hildegard Seeds”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rob Samborn.
Author 5 books125 followers
December 5, 2024
Wow. The Apostle Conspiracy is a masterclass in historical thrillers. Gary McAvoy is at the top of his game as he brings the reader on a centuries-spanning mystery with world-changing consequences. In this brilliantly constructed novel, McAvoy seamlessly weaves philosophy, religion, technology, and suspense, with unforgettable characters determined to thwart—or expose—a long-buried secret that could rock the foundation of the Catholic Church. This is McAvoy's finest work to date. He outdoes himself at every turn with a narrative that captivates from start to finish.
192 reviews2 followers
December 18, 2024
amazing

I am always mesmerized by this saga. Drawn to the wonderfully convoluted mystery being woven into the unique tapestry of beliefs that have held humankind d together in a way unlike anything else in history. McAvoy has an amazing ability to put these things together in a story unlike any other writer I know and draw you in page after page until the end. I loved this new offering and read it completely through. Whether you are a fan or a new reader you will not regret reading it.
6 reviews
January 15, 2025
Secrets

This is a continuation of the religious adventures of Father Michael Dominic and his friend Hanna Sinclair. Although there are not the death defying confrontations of the previous books, or the deep involvement of the familiar characters, it makes for an enjoyable and thoughtful read. There are also secrets to be revealed. There are secrets about the bones of St Peter. Secrets about Linus, the second Pope. And personal secrets that Michael must confront. If you have read the previous books in the series, you will thoroughly enjoy this one. If you haven’t, then I urge you to go back and read from the beginning.
6 reviews
December 12, 2024
The best of the series

I love the continued character development . The story line makes one want to delve into the mysteries of God. I also liked how the bad actor had to come to grips with his own pride and the strategic and brilliant way Michael handled him. Looking forward to more.
944 reviews10 followers
December 16, 2024
We Come to a Watershed Moment

In this book Michael's faith is tested in ways he has never imagined. He has to make decisions on trusting his senses versus the easier way of following the straight road. In addition he is presented with a finding that could affect the earliest history of the Church.

He also sees that his relationship with Hana, in its current state is just not satisfying anymore, he knows he will have to make a major decision.
Profile Image for gerry.
459 reviews5 followers
December 21, 2024
Clever plot

The relics found in churches around the world do inspire the faithful, but as Father Michael observed, the faithful demonstrate deep faith, even when worshipping fake relics.
Profile Image for Penny Cipolone.
342 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2025
I have read all the books in this series, and I think that McAvoy's writing has finally come of age. No more elaborate meal descriptions. No more rooms beyond compare. Just hard heating story line in every chapter! I truly enjoyed this book the most of all of the Vatican Archive series.
23 reviews1 follower
December 17, 2024
WOW!!

Michael's instincts are put to the test when one of Christianity's most beloved relics is the object of a man who has limitless power and money.

Meanwhile, where does his relationship with Hana go?
All this leads to a crossroads for making some big decisions in the future.

Cannot wait to see which direction this goes.
1 review
December 21, 2024
nice suspense

I enjoyed this one as I did his others. It had a good plot, no gory stuff. Judah nice suspense story.
Profile Image for Robert.
168 reviews12 followers
December 28, 2024
Excellent story, certainly one that would feed speculation -- given the narrative. The interaction between Michael and Elliot Voss was clever and featured a good cat and mouse confrontation. The speculation between Linus and Peter was an interesting look at Christianity's early history.
4 reviews
December 14, 2024
Great book

Great book great story well written I have loved this sequence of books great 👍Gary mcaavoy is a great author
Profile Image for Lisa Shower.
664 reviews5 followers
December 17, 2024
Amazing!

This book was wonderful. The storyline was a long-time coming, anticipated by many of us. I eagerly look forward to seeing their relationship grow and mature. As for the Voss storyline, it was exceptionak.
Profile Image for Mark.
192 reviews
December 22, 2024
Brilliant

Waited months for this book to come out, and it sure didnt dissapoint. Although the storyline is about the Bones of St Peter, there its not just about that.

It has been brewing a while, will be interesting to see what happens going forward, giving the way that it ended.... the author has said he is not sure whether he goes 'Route A, Route B'
Either way the next book in the series, will be interesting
6 reviews
December 28, 2024
Father Michael thrills readers again!

Just when you think things can’t get any worse, events happen to reverse that. The ending is everything I had hoped for since reading the first book in this series. I can’t wait to read what Gary McAvoy comes up with next.
2 reviews
January 5, 2025
Fantastic series!

I have so enjoyed this journey with Father Michael, Hana, the Baron, Karl, Lukas, and the host of incredible characters they've interacted with throughout this fantastic series! I was initially drawn in by the history, which I believe has been well researched, and was definitely intriguing. That being said, I kept coming back because the stories were just wonderful. The plots were intricate, the characters well developed, and the messages always thought provoking. I highly recommend any and all of Gary McAvoy's novels to anyone who enjoys history and historical fiction, as well as mystery, mythology and science all wrapped up with engaging characters and their battles of wits with a variety of antagonists. I spent many a late night, unable to put them down and read the last two in three days.
Profile Image for Kat Starwolf.
246 reviews13 followers
January 17, 2025
Another explosive page-turner. McAvoy does NOT disappoint, even after 8 previous books in this series. I hesitate to say TOO much, since just about anything that could be said might give away the plot. But if you've read Gary's previous Vatican Secret Archive Thrillers, you'll DEFINITELY want to read this one! I WILL say that I can see that he tread a very fine line between writing what he determined his readers might agree with/want to read and what they didn't and possibly slipping over into that category of fantasy-land or even sacrilegious conjecture. But regardless of preferences, I highly recommend this latest book in this series. It might open your eyes to ... possibilities. Great work, Gary!
6 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2025
Awesome

I love this series and the returning characters. Highly recommended. All the other books in the series are just as good, read them
18 reviews
January 6, 2025
Once again I enjoyed every page of this thriller especially after visiting Rome and the Vatican this past fall. Especially enjoy all the What If ? In the findings of the Secret Archives .Also enjoy how all the characters have evolved since the beginning of the first Archive Thrillers along with the progressive teachings and laws of the Catholic Church.Can t wait to continue with the future of all characters!


9 reviews
January 6, 2025
Must Read!

As engaging a series as I have ever read.the Introduces history and conjecture and weaves it together that leaves me examining my own beliefs. I find the story less gripping than previous titles, but the trajectory of !Michael and Hannah's relationship is natural and not unexpected. Can't wait for the next novel.
2 reviews
March 14, 2025
an engrossing and beautifully written book, role on book 10!,

An exciting range of extraordinary events, which in many ways are quite believable, filled with true facts and the odd invented. An engrossing read. Role on book ten
3 reviews1 follower
Read
March 12, 2025
It's one of the best books I've read by him so far. As a Catholic, there are points I disagree with, but Gary took a chance, and it was very well done.
17 reviews
December 31, 2024
interesting plot twists, and finally some resolution between Michael and Hana

An interesting story, deals with the greed of the extremely wealthy, and the constant desire for more at any cost. Kind of mirrors the current situation here in my country. Greed and the endless quest for power. The ubstory of Peter and Linus shows another way to deal with power and leadership.
It is good to finally see some resolution to the situation between Michael and Hana. The author tackles love throughout the series, Micheal and Hana, as well as Karl and his other half. Well done
Profile Image for Kenn Goslin.
807 reviews7 followers
January 2, 2025
Father Michael Dominic has a daunting task before him. Can he do it?

The revealing of the bones, the Holy Relics of St.
Peter, will be a monumental undertaking with security and technology required to safeguard the event!
9 reviews
January 4, 2025
In The Palm of His Hands

Love the stories. Love the characters. Love the twists and turns. Leave it to God. He shows us the way!
Profile Image for Scott B Stillman.
138 reviews
June 20, 2025
Excellent addition to the series with a whole new flavor

Thought Mr. McAvoy took this series to a new sophisticated level with this book. The complexity of two different storylines were well crafted and covered fascinating subjects and theories. The villain is quite a character, intelligent and driven, with an ego that is huge.
The two main characters seemed sedate in the first half, but became their more their self’s in the second half.
Great read!
Profile Image for Liz  Cromwell.
37 reviews
December 31, 2024
Another great book by Gary McAvoy!

Another great book by Gary McAvoy! The characters have been developed throughout the books so the reader feels as if they know them. But the books are written so well that you really are always wondering what’s going to happen next! I can’t wait for the next one ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews

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