Religious fanatics inform historians Cameron Thorne and Amanda Spencer-Gunn that a medieval stone tower in Newport, RI is a secret portal--built by the Knights Templar and their Native American allies--through which the Antichrist will appear. It all seems utterly ridiculous, until their teenage daughter Astarte is kidnapped and dragged into a vile sex magic ritual designed to bring about the Apocalypse. Publishers Weekly says of the author, "BRODY DOES A TERRIFIC JOB OF WRAPPING HIS RESEARCH IN A FAST-PACED THRILL RIDE." Based on actual historical artifacts, and illustrated. This is a stand-alone novel with recurring characters. These books can be read in any order. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR READERS WITH STRONG RELIGIOUS BELIEFS.
David S. Brody is a Boston Globe bestselling fiction writer named Boston's "Best Local Author" by the Boston Phoenix newspaper. A graduate of Tufts University and Georgetown Law School, he is a former Director of the New England Antiquities Research Association (NEARA) and is an avid researcher in the subject of pre-Columbian exploration of America. He has appeared as a guest expert on documentaries airing on History Channel, Travel Channel, PBS and Discovery Channel.
When I started reading this book, I found it very interesting. The usual dangers of various kinds came along to threaten Cameron, Amanda and Astarte. However, when I got to a particular place in the book, I was stunned and couldn't read on. I didn't finish the book, and (with apologies to the author) I won't be reading any further of these books that come along. Whatever the reason for this event happening, it did not need to. I haven't been this disappointed in something that happened in other books for a long time.
Without wishing to give away a spoiler, this was one of my least favorite of the series. When there is a tried and tested team of characters that over the previous nine books have worked tightly together, then for little reason that changes, it left me with a gap that the rest of the book did not fill. Having a good fast moving story is one thing, but good fiction is all about the characters and in this respect, I found this book was left somewhat lacking.
I have truly loved the series, but not this story line. The murder of Amanda felt all wrong and set a very dark tone from that point forward. Then the focus on the rape of a teen just ruined the book for me.
The tower in Newport, Rhode Island, which has featured before in this series of books, is identified as a secret portal through which the Anti-christ will appear. Cam and Amanda are initially very sceptical about this until various events change their mind.
I found this book to be a challenging read because of the host of characters in it. It was very hard to keep track of who was on which side. Also, the map indicating where sites were in the US did not render very well in a Kindle book. Perhaps a weblink to a larger map would help in this respect. Despite this, it is still quite an exciting and absorbing read.
Another intriguing events in native American and Templar
I have become a fan of Mr Brody writing. The methods of combining n historical events and an interesting story together to keep you wanting to know more which he provides at the end of his book. If you are interested in.the historical development of the these United States that was not in the history classes and challenge of religious events I would suggest the entire series . you won't be disappointed.
A fascinating continuation of this enjoyable story.
Once again, Mr. Brody writes with a passion for what he knows and loves, while at the same time drawing the reader right along with him. I, for one, am more than willing to follow along. This series brings fact and fiction together like no other series I have ever read. I look forward to page one of the next book in this fast paced series.
This book, crafted by a fabulous wordsmith, David S. Brody, like all of his books that I have read to date, held my interest throughout the whole book. A of the works by this author, not only keeps one entertained, but also presents and bunch of interesting information.
I’ve read and loved every book in the series until this dud. While I love the Templar themes in the other books I can’t understand or want to read religion babbling. Plus you kill off Amanda and cripple Cam?? What a disappointing book. It’s like you’re into sci fi not anything related to historical fiction. Let me know when you back to decent writing
Where to start, so many twists and turns so many things not making sense and at one point I needed a box of tissues as I feel like I have been friends with Cameron, Amanda and Astarte from the beginning, now is the story ending or just beginning. If you have followed these stories through this book is a must read. I recommend this book
So far all every book in this series has been wonderful. I just hope there is more in the future. The plots are always suspenseful and the characters are so realistic. Thanks for such a wonderful book!
I liked the story line but at times found the details too cofusing. Hower, I did enjoy the tale and at times could not put the book down. Kudos for another well written and captivating novel.
This was my least favorite in the entire series. There was really no historical interest and the ficus on the anti Christ and sex were overwhelming and negative. The style and verbiage also changed. It was goid as an action story but not as historical fiction.