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Antoine Marcas #4
Le Frère de sang
Paris, 1355. Un homme est brûlé vif en place publique. Nicolas Flamel assiste à l'exécution : l'horreur ne fait que commencer car celui qui deviendra un célèbre alchimiste est sur le point de plonger dans les terribles révélations d'un livre interdit. Paris, 2007. Le commissaire franc-maçon Antoine Marcas découvre deux crimes rituels commis par l'un des siens, baptisé le " Frère de Sang ". Un indice le met rapidement sur la piste d'un secret séculaire, entourant le mystère de l'or pur. De Paris à New York, une course contre la montre s'engage alors entre le serial killer et le policier, autour de deux lieux hautement symboliques, la statue de la Liberté et la tour Eiffel...
560 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 1, 2008
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470 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 26, 2016
I read the previous book, Shadow Ritual last year and I was thrilled to get the chance to read the sequel to it. If I understand the translation order is this book 4 and the previous book translated is book 2. But, it doesn't matter, this book was easy to get into and you don't have to have read Shadow Ritual before you read The Lafayette Sword.
So how was this book? I do admit that I was a bit less charmed by this book than the previous. It's still an interesting and fast-paced book and the mystery with the Lafayette sword was fascinating. And the historical angle with Nicolas Flamel's POV which gives the reader the clues to the present story was fascinating. However, I found that the story lacked the intensity from the previous book and I missed Jade that Antoine Marcas was teamed up with. I liked their chemistry and just having Marcas, well it felt like something important was missing. However, I did find the alchemy angle fascinating and Flamel POV really intrigued me.
The Lafayette Sword may not have intrigued me as much as the Shadow Ritual did. However, I think that this series is definitely something you should read if you like adventurous treasure seeking books with a deranged killer.
I want to thank Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
So how was this book? I do admit that I was a bit less charmed by this book than the previous. It's still an interesting and fast-paced book and the mystery with the Lafayette sword was fascinating. And the historical angle with Nicolas Flamel's POV which gives the reader the clues to the present story was fascinating. However, I found that the story lacked the intensity from the previous book and I missed Jade that Antoine Marcas was teamed up with. I liked their chemistry and just having Marcas, well it felt like something important was missing. However, I did find the alchemy angle fascinating and Flamel POV really intrigued me.
The Lafayette Sword may not have intrigued me as much as the Shadow Ritual did. However, I think that this series is definitely something you should read if you like adventurous treasure seeking books with a deranged killer.
I want to thank Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
September 18, 2016
I wasn't certain about this book at first. I received a review copy from the publisher through NetGalley and it sounded interesting. The chapters are very short and alternate between present day and 14th century Paris before adding additional locations. Perhaps due to the short chapters, I found the book read quickly. There were some scenes that worried me, particularly in the past, but they didn't devolve into graphic unpleasantness, thank goodness. And it eventually turned into a modern day treasure hunt.
This is not the first book in the original French series, but I didn't have any trouble getting a feel for the setting or the main protagonist, a French police officer who is also a Freemason. Freemasonry plays a central role in this book, as does alchemy, and a few historical people. Much of the book is about figuring out and following clues as the hero investigates in Paris and in New York City. There is another plot following a cabal of gold investors and the American security expert who works for them. It took me a while before I figured out the connection as the initial scenes are not necessarily related to the main mystery.
The book shows roots in the Indiana Jones movies as well as Dan Brown books. While the initial mystery seems to be one of a mentally unstable murderer on some unexplained killing spree, by the end there are secrets from the past and dramatic action scenes. It developed that larger than life feel of these types of stories as they are told on film. Overall, it was a lot of fun, though there was a high death toll.
This is not the first book in the original French series, but I didn't have any trouble getting a feel for the setting or the main protagonist, a French police officer who is also a Freemason. Freemasonry plays a central role in this book, as does alchemy, and a few historical people. Much of the book is about figuring out and following clues as the hero investigates in Paris and in New York City. There is another plot following a cabal of gold investors and the American security expert who works for them. It took me a while before I figured out the connection as the initial scenes are not necessarily related to the main mystery.
The book shows roots in the Indiana Jones movies as well as Dan Brown books. While the initial mystery seems to be one of a mentally unstable murderer on some unexplained killing spree, by the end there are secrets from the past and dramatic action scenes. It developed that larger than life feel of these types of stories as they are told on film. Overall, it was a lot of fun, though there was a high death toll.
April 23, 2024
Un livre dans lequel il est facile d'entrer. Un mix entre Indiana Jones et Benjamin Gates. Mais sous le divertissement, pour le peu qu'on soit curieux, on apprend des choses.
July 30, 2016
Originally published at Reading Reality
Just like the first book in this series, Shadow RitualShadow Ritual, The Lafayette Sword reads very much like a thinking person’s DaVinci Code. Only better, because the story in the end is much more firmly grounded in reality and makes much more sense, while still taking the reader on a thrill-a-minute ride.
In this book, we actually begin with three stories. In the 21st century, our hero, Paris Police Detective Antoine Marcas attends a regular meeting of his Freemason Lodge, only to discover not one, but two dead bodies inside the sanctuary. One is an initiate, and one is an old and dear friend. His chase of the killer nearly ends in his own death, but the killer, spares his life at the last moment for reasons unknown to Marcas. He’s heard his assailant’s voice, but the face was masked.
Also in the 21st century, we read the emails of a mysterious cartel code-named Aurora. Aurora’s purpose is to manipulate the price of gold, for the benefit of its members, of course. Aurora buys up the gold uncovered in Shadow Ritual, but it isn’t necessary to have read that book to enjoy Sword.
But if you love thrillers, these are marvelous.
There is also a plot thread in the 14th century. We follow Nicolas Flamel as he is forced to record the confession under extreme torture of a young woman. She accompanied Isaac Benserade to Paris, and her late master was burned to death by the Crown for plotting against the king. In truth, it was all a plot to find Isaac’s book of alchemical formulas. The Crown is broke, and desperately needs a miracle. Turning base metals into gold would certainly qualify as that miracle.
For those wondering why the name Nicolas Flamel sounds familiar, Flamel was a real historical figure, but he is better known to 21st century readers as the creator of the “Philosopher’s Stone” or “Sorcerer’s Stone” that was sought by Voldemort in the first Harry Potter book.
Back to The Lafayette Sword, and, the search for it.
As the story progresses, at first the reader is left wondering why these three threads are bound together in this book. They do not seem connected. All very interesting, but not necessarily converging.
But as Antoine chases the killer, and the secret that the man is searching for, these disparate trails come together. And when they do, the action, and the danger, heat up to boiling point. Or to the temperature of gold fever.
Escape Rating B+: For the first half of the book, the reader is wondering how and why the various disparate plot threads are finally going to come together. At the halfway point, they start to braid together in a way that will keep the reader turning pages furiously until the end.
For those who enjoy complex riddle stories like The DaVinci Code and National Treasure, there is plenty of meat to chew on. The quest for the killer and what is driving him delve deeply into Masonic history, and also into the history of both the American and the French Revolutions.
But like so many good thrillers, we also get a fight to the death both at the base of the Statue of Liberty and among the metal lattice of the Eiffel Tower. Both tourist destinations are linked by a surprising secret.
In the end, however, the mystery comes down to very human motives, and very human reason. Or unreason. One man has gone off the rails, pursuing a secret that for once, really does exist – but can’t be revealed.
We see the chase through the eyes of Antoine Marcas. He is both Freemason and cop, and in this case must parse his divided loyalties in order to reach justice without revealing secrets he is sworn to keep. And we see his internal conflict, not just about the almost opposing calls on his loyalty, but also his doubts and fears. And his abiding concern that his devotion to his duty has taken him away from his son. Marcas is both a dogged investigator, and a deeply troubled man.
And that makes him fascinating to watch. I am looking forward to hopefully next year, or whenever the next of his adventures will be translated into English.
Just like the first book in this series, Shadow RitualShadow Ritual, The Lafayette Sword reads very much like a thinking person’s DaVinci Code. Only better, because the story in the end is much more firmly grounded in reality and makes much more sense, while still taking the reader on a thrill-a-minute ride.
In this book, we actually begin with three stories. In the 21st century, our hero, Paris Police Detective Antoine Marcas attends a regular meeting of his Freemason Lodge, only to discover not one, but two dead bodies inside the sanctuary. One is an initiate, and one is an old and dear friend. His chase of the killer nearly ends in his own death, but the killer, spares his life at the last moment for reasons unknown to Marcas. He’s heard his assailant’s voice, but the face was masked.
Also in the 21st century, we read the emails of a mysterious cartel code-named Aurora. Aurora’s purpose is to manipulate the price of gold, for the benefit of its members, of course. Aurora buys up the gold uncovered in Shadow Ritual, but it isn’t necessary to have read that book to enjoy Sword.
But if you love thrillers, these are marvelous.
There is also a plot thread in the 14th century. We follow Nicolas Flamel as he is forced to record the confession under extreme torture of a young woman. She accompanied Isaac Benserade to Paris, and her late master was burned to death by the Crown for plotting against the king. In truth, it was all a plot to find Isaac’s book of alchemical formulas. The Crown is broke, and desperately needs a miracle. Turning base metals into gold would certainly qualify as that miracle.
For those wondering why the name Nicolas Flamel sounds familiar, Flamel was a real historical figure, but he is better known to 21st century readers as the creator of the “Philosopher’s Stone” or “Sorcerer’s Stone” that was sought by Voldemort in the first Harry Potter book.
Back to The Lafayette Sword, and, the search for it.
As the story progresses, at first the reader is left wondering why these three threads are bound together in this book. They do not seem connected. All very interesting, but not necessarily converging.
But as Antoine chases the killer, and the secret that the man is searching for, these disparate trails come together. And when they do, the action, and the danger, heat up to boiling point. Or to the temperature of gold fever.
Escape Rating B+: For the first half of the book, the reader is wondering how and why the various disparate plot threads are finally going to come together. At the halfway point, they start to braid together in a way that will keep the reader turning pages furiously until the end.
For those who enjoy complex riddle stories like The DaVinci Code and National Treasure, there is plenty of meat to chew on. The quest for the killer and what is driving him delve deeply into Masonic history, and also into the history of both the American and the French Revolutions.
But like so many good thrillers, we also get a fight to the death both at the base of the Statue of Liberty and among the metal lattice of the Eiffel Tower. Both tourist destinations are linked by a surprising secret.
In the end, however, the mystery comes down to very human motives, and very human reason. Or unreason. One man has gone off the rails, pursuing a secret that for once, really does exist – but can’t be revealed.
We see the chase through the eyes of Antoine Marcas. He is both Freemason and cop, and in this case must parse his divided loyalties in order to reach justice without revealing secrets he is sworn to keep. And we see his internal conflict, not just about the almost opposing calls on his loyalty, but also his doubts and fears. And his abiding concern that his devotion to his duty has taken him away from his son. Marcas is both a dogged investigator, and a deeply troubled man.
And that makes him fascinating to watch. I am looking forward to hopefully next year, or whenever the next of his adventures will be translated into English.
September 9, 2016
‘When would everyone just drop the Masonic conspiracy thing?’
Antoine Marcas is both a Freemason, and a detective. Which is just as well because, when serving as the grand expert for an initiation ceremony, he enters the chamber of reflection to find the initiate dead in a pool of blood. The murderer, he quickly finds, is another Freemason.
The story jumps backwards in time to 1355, where Nicolas Flamel a scribe, is closing his shop. An execution is about to take place, and riots are feared. A Jewish person is about to be burned at the stake. Nicolas is dragged unwillingly to the scene of the execution. Nicolas’s new neighbour, Jehan Arthur, is a torturer and he involves Nicolas Flamel in taking a record:
‘I simply need a man who knows how to write what is being said and to forget what he has heard. Are you that man, Master Flamel?’
In the present, another Freemason is murdered, a priceless sword is stolen. There’s a clue pointing to a mystery, a hint about pure gold. And given the importance of gold and its role in the world economy, any likelihood of pure gold need to be explored. The clues point to the Statue of Liberty, and the Eiffel Tower. But what does it mean?
The novel shifts between 1355 and the present in short, sharp chapters that kept me reading to find out what would happen next. What’s the truth about the pure gold, and where do the events of 1355 fit in?
I enjoyed this novel: great escapist fiction, a conspiracy theory with a twist. One part, though, jerked me out of the story: did women really wear panties in 1355? I admit to being somewhat distracted by this, but it is of no great significance to the story.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Le French Book for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Antoine Marcas is both a Freemason, and a detective. Which is just as well because, when serving as the grand expert for an initiation ceremony, he enters the chamber of reflection to find the initiate dead in a pool of blood. The murderer, he quickly finds, is another Freemason.
The story jumps backwards in time to 1355, where Nicolas Flamel a scribe, is closing his shop. An execution is about to take place, and riots are feared. A Jewish person is about to be burned at the stake. Nicolas is dragged unwillingly to the scene of the execution. Nicolas’s new neighbour, Jehan Arthur, is a torturer and he involves Nicolas Flamel in taking a record:
‘I simply need a man who knows how to write what is being said and to forget what he has heard. Are you that man, Master Flamel?’
In the present, another Freemason is murdered, a priceless sword is stolen. There’s a clue pointing to a mystery, a hint about pure gold. And given the importance of gold and its role in the world economy, any likelihood of pure gold need to be explored. The clues point to the Statue of Liberty, and the Eiffel Tower. But what does it mean?
The novel shifts between 1355 and the present in short, sharp chapters that kept me reading to find out what would happen next. What’s the truth about the pure gold, and where do the events of 1355 fit in?
I enjoyed this novel: great escapist fiction, a conspiracy theory with a twist. One part, though, jerked me out of the story: did women really wear panties in 1355? I admit to being somewhat distracted by this, but it is of no great significance to the story.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Le French Book for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
October 28, 2016
This is probably the most interesting mystery I've read in ages. It is a gold mine of information on Freemasonry and alchemy. All of the information is woven carefully into the plot so that it reads very well.
The novel originates in France where much of the action happens. Two murders occur at a Freemason meeting. One of the brothers, Marcus, is a policeman. He happened to discover both bodies and feels responsible to bring the killer to justice.
It becomes apparent (to readers) that gold is an essential aspect of the plot. That brings in alchemy. The novel's narrative includes following a story about alchemy from the 1300s. The novel alternates between the present and the past and we eventually see a connection that spans the centuries.
Marcus follows the trail of secret symbols that will lead him to the murderer. He encounters danger on the way as he uncovers cryptic sayings, ancient conspiracies, and desperate people.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It is well crafted. The structure of the novel, interweaving the contemporary story with the one from medieval times, really worked well. The stories were written in a way that kept my interest in both of them, even before I knew of their connection.
What I liked best about the novel was all the information it contained about Freemasonry. The facts were included in dialog in such a way that the narrative entertained as well as informed. And the translation from the French is wonderful.
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy novels about conspiracies and secret societies, all wrapped up in a thrilling plot. Note: there is a torture scene in the medieval story that is a bit gruesome but realistic, I am sure.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The novel originates in France where much of the action happens. Two murders occur at a Freemason meeting. One of the brothers, Marcus, is a policeman. He happened to discover both bodies and feels responsible to bring the killer to justice.
It becomes apparent (to readers) that gold is an essential aspect of the plot. That brings in alchemy. The novel's narrative includes following a story about alchemy from the 1300s. The novel alternates between the present and the past and we eventually see a connection that spans the centuries.
Marcus follows the trail of secret symbols that will lead him to the murderer. He encounters danger on the way as he uncovers cryptic sayings, ancient conspiracies, and desperate people.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It is well crafted. The structure of the novel, interweaving the contemporary story with the one from medieval times, really worked well. The stories were written in a way that kept my interest in both of them, even before I knew of their connection.
What I liked best about the novel was all the information it contained about Freemasonry. The facts were included in dialog in such a way that the narrative entertained as well as informed. And the translation from the French is wonderful.
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy novels about conspiracies and secret societies, all wrapped up in a thrilling plot. Note: there is a torture scene in the medieval story that is a bit gruesome but realistic, I am sure.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
June 15, 2023
Simya tüm dünyada ilgi görmüş felsefe taşı ile kurşundan altın yapmak için çalışılan bir kadim bilim olarak kabul edilir. Aslında Simya içinden bir mühendislik dalı da olan Kimya bilimini çıkaran bir uğraştır. Roman Simya’nın Altın üretimi kuramıyla ilgili bir kurgu oluşturmuş. Şunu belirtmek gerekiyor bir serinin üçüncü kitabı ama tek başına da okunabilir ama obsesifseniz bu eserle başlamayın ilk iki kitabı daha önce okuyun derim. Simya yı merak edenlere ise Simya Sanatı ve Simyacılar kitabını tavsiye ederim. Simya ile uğraşanlar delirir veya ölür mü ? Muhtemelen. Çünkü kurşundan Altın yapmak için iki proton bir nötron eksiltmeniz lazım. Bunu yapmak için çalışırken kurşun zehirlenmeniz kaçınılmaz. Peki bunu yapabilir miyiz ? Çok pahalıya mal olur ama ciddi bir laboratuvar ortamında belki. Hadi iyi okumalar
August 20, 2016
Another great read from Le French Book. Anne Trager, publisher and translator, has taken it upon herself to provide wonderful French mysteries and thrillers to English speakers. She personally has translated this book and it reads smoothly and effortlessly.
This is the second book in a thriller series. Shadows Ritual was the first book starring Antoine Marcus.
This book involves more than one murder, Freemasons in France and in the US and the obsession for gold.
The two authors know their freemason history and for readers like me who don't know much except the names of famous freemasons alive and dead, this was an interesting educational read as well as a "can't put it down' thriller.
The chapters jump back and forth between the killer who is only known as the killer, M. Marcus whose friend was the second person to die and a mysterious group who seem to be regulating the price of gold. It's never clear until the end whether the group's motive is greed or otherwise.
Marcus feels obligated to get to the bottom of the murders. And as the facts emerge so do fascinating and, I have to believe, made-up symbols leading to sacred spots that only the Freemasons know. Lafayette's sword plays a part in the symbolism and direction and misdirection.
This book is fun. I applaud Ms. Trager for bringing me such fascinating french books. For although I live in Paris, my french has never been good enough to enjoy reads like this one.
This is the second book in a thriller series. Shadows Ritual was the first book starring Antoine Marcus.
This book involves more than one murder, Freemasons in France and in the US and the obsession for gold.
The two authors know their freemason history and for readers like me who don't know much except the names of famous freemasons alive and dead, this was an interesting educational read as well as a "can't put it down' thriller.
The chapters jump back and forth between the killer who is only known as the killer, M. Marcus whose friend was the second person to die and a mysterious group who seem to be regulating the price of gold. It's never clear until the end whether the group's motive is greed or otherwise.
Marcus feels obligated to get to the bottom of the murders. And as the facts emerge so do fascinating and, I have to believe, made-up symbols leading to sacred spots that only the Freemasons know. Lafayette's sword plays a part in the symbolism and direction and misdirection.
This book is fun. I applaud Ms. Trager for bringing me such fascinating french books. For although I live in Paris, my french has never been good enough to enjoy reads like this one.
October 25, 2016
4.5 Stars
This book revolves around the Freemasons and the desire for alchemists to make gold from metal. It starts off with two strands to the story, the murder of two Freemasons (one an initiate) in modern day France; the second strand takes place in 1355 with the execution of a man by fire observed by one Nicholas Flamel. In the book a French policeman and Freemason seeks to hunt down the killer and to do this he must discover the reason for the murder, this takes him across Paris and eventually onto New York.
The book is fast paced, with short chapters in the main, until the end, alternating between the modern day story in France and the back story which took place in the mid 14th Century and centres around the well known alchemist Nicholas Flamel. Good links within it are made between alchemy and the American Revolution, as well as taking the reader to the two biggest monuments in France and New York. The book held my interest throughout, and I certainly learnt a lot more about Gold! As the book marched towards its culmination the tension was ratcheted up and I felt I couldn't put the book down as I had to find out how the story ended. I thoroughly recommend this book and look forward to reading the first book in the series and hope more books in this series are translated into English. Despite being the second book in the series, it reads very well as a standalone and I didn't feel I'd lost anything by not having read the first one.
This book revolves around the Freemasons and the desire for alchemists to make gold from metal. It starts off with two strands to the story, the murder of two Freemasons (one an initiate) in modern day France; the second strand takes place in 1355 with the execution of a man by fire observed by one Nicholas Flamel. In the book a French policeman and Freemason seeks to hunt down the killer and to do this he must discover the reason for the murder, this takes him across Paris and eventually onto New York.
The book is fast paced, with short chapters in the main, until the end, alternating between the modern day story in France and the back story which took place in the mid 14th Century and centres around the well known alchemist Nicholas Flamel. Good links within it are made between alchemy and the American Revolution, as well as taking the reader to the two biggest monuments in France and New York. The book held my interest throughout, and I certainly learnt a lot more about Gold! As the book marched towards its culmination the tension was ratcheted up and I felt I couldn't put the book down as I had to find out how the story ended. I thoroughly recommend this book and look forward to reading the first book in the series and hope more books in this series are translated into English. Despite being the second book in the series, it reads very well as a standalone and I didn't feel I'd lost anything by not having read the first one.
August 25, 2016
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This is a book along the lines of a Dan Brown novel – but MUCH better written and realised. The book was going along quite nicely with two threads – both set in Paris but over 700 years apart – a couple of murders, a bit of medieval torture in the name of God, when suddenly a third global conspiracy thread erupted, with a secret cabal trying to corner the world market in gold. That somehow linked into the study of alchemy, international hitmen, American and Free Mason mythology with a bit of Harry Potter thrown in for good measure. It all got really weird and so much fun! If you like your thriller to be based on believable facts, then leave this well alone. But if you like a rollicking, fast paced, leap around famous American and Parisian landmarks, centuries of mystery and protagonists in mortal danger, then this is for you. I promise you that after reading this book, you will never look at the Eifel Tower in the same way again.
A wonderful book that doesn’t let reality get in the way of a great story.
This is a book along the lines of a Dan Brown novel – but MUCH better written and realised. The book was going along quite nicely with two threads – both set in Paris but over 700 years apart – a couple of murders, a bit of medieval torture in the name of God, when suddenly a third global conspiracy thread erupted, with a secret cabal trying to corner the world market in gold. That somehow linked into the study of alchemy, international hitmen, American and Free Mason mythology with a bit of Harry Potter thrown in for good measure. It all got really weird and so much fun! If you like your thriller to be based on believable facts, then leave this well alone. But if you like a rollicking, fast paced, leap around famous American and Parisian landmarks, centuries of mystery and protagonists in mortal danger, then this is for you. I promise you that after reading this book, you will never look at the Eifel Tower in the same way again.
A wonderful book that doesn’t let reality get in the way of a great story.
October 21, 2016
Antoine Marcas uncovers a conspiracy about alchemy gold after the murder of an initiate and an old friend during an initiation ceremony at the Freemason temple. He finds himself on a journey that takes him beyond the USA as he chases a madman who seeks to cleanse the Freemasons of members who are only "in the club" for personal gain.
I learned quite a bit about Freemasons. The author knows his stuff! I really enjoyed how the story goes back and forth from modern day to 1355 and the tale of a scribe who must write down a "confession" during torture sessions with a young woman who holds the "truth" of how to make the elusive alchemy gold. The story is steeped in history and lore. I had never heard of the 'Book of Adam' and it now has me wanting to find that book for myself! Not for the recipe.. but, for the history! The characters are well developed and truly come to life. On par with the Davinci Code. I can recommend that most readers will be fascinated with the conspiracy that could be true! And, if it isn't true.. it should be true!
I learned quite a bit about Freemasons. The author knows his stuff! I really enjoyed how the story goes back and forth from modern day to 1355 and the tale of a scribe who must write down a "confession" during torture sessions with a young woman who holds the "truth" of how to make the elusive alchemy gold. The story is steeped in history and lore. I had never heard of the 'Book of Adam' and it now has me wanting to find that book for myself! Not for the recipe.. but, for the history! The characters are well developed and truly come to life. On par with the Davinci Code. I can recommend that most readers will be fascinated with the conspiracy that could be true! And, if it isn't true.. it should be true!
August 31, 2016
I received this eBook via Netgalley for review.
An interesting take with the Free Masons as subject matter. I normally don't mind when a story skips back and forth between two different time periods, but here it felt more jolting. The two stories don't cohere until nearly the end. This one was OK, although I probably won't seek out other books in the series. I didn't dislike the story, but I didn't care much about most of the present day characters, the characters from 1355 were more fascinating. The tale is dark and gruesome at times, there is reference to rape but without any details, along with other brief sexual content. International intrigue, secret corporate gold monitoring, past and present colliding, self righteousness, greed, alchemy and Free Masonry.
An interesting take with the Free Masons as subject matter. I normally don't mind when a story skips back and forth between two different time periods, but here it felt more jolting. The two stories don't cohere until nearly the end. This one was OK, although I probably won't seek out other books in the series. I didn't dislike the story, but I didn't care much about most of the present day characters, the characters from 1355 were more fascinating. The tale is dark and gruesome at times, there is reference to rape but without any details, along with other brief sexual content. International intrigue, secret corporate gold monitoring, past and present colliding, self righteousness, greed, alchemy and Free Masonry.
November 21, 2016
This is a great read for folks who enjoy history, symbology associated with secret societies and a good who done it. This is the second book in the Antoine Marcas series. I have had the pleasure of reading both books this year. I would highly recommend them to you. I am avoiding any spoilers because I don't need to relate the story to recommend this book to most readers. The elements of interest are diverse enough to capture the interest of most readers.
September 9, 2016
Great
A true heart-pounding page turner.
The blend of historical figures and events with that of Freemasonry makes a diverse background and provides a well of ideas to draw from. An excellently woven and well thought out plot.
A true heart-pounding page turner.
The blend of historical figures and events with that of Freemasonry makes a diverse background and provides a well of ideas to draw from. An excellently woven and well thought out plot.
February 29, 2020
Murder. Torture. Alchemy. Now Antoine has to figure how it all fits as did Nicholas Flamel back in the 1300's. I enjoyed this story. I also enjoyed the entwining of the story from today with the story back in 1300's. I like Antoine and how being a Freemason entwines his whole life. Every time he is involved with a murder there is a Mason connection. It is up to him to determine how it fits and use the clues given to find the murderer. This mystery was good. I was interested from the beginning and interested in how the Masonic symbols were used by the murderer to find what he wanted. I also liked how the history of alchemy and the history of some of the founding members of the lodge Antoine belongs mixed together. A good story and I hope there are more coming in this series in translation.
October 12, 2022
Più un saggio sulla massoneria che un giallo; d'altronde gli autori sono giornalisti d'investigazione, di cui uno anche massone. C'è un abisso tra il lavoro d'indagine e ricerca sull'argomento, che può risultare intrigante per appassionati e cospirazionisti vari, e la narrativa fiction relegata a mero contorno (avariato) e farcita di dialoghi sconcertanti (simil-buzzurro).
November 11, 2020
Des crimes sont commis par un étrange assassin qui semble être, à première vue, lié à la franc-maçonnerie.
En enquêtant sur ces meurtres, Marcas va faire des rencontres et des voyages pour le moins surprenant.
En enquêtant sur ces meurtres, Marcas va faire des rencontres et des voyages pour le moins surprenant.
January 2, 2017
Good story well written
I was hesitant but decided to take a chance on a translated book. I found one error! Plus the book was interesting and full of action.
I was hesitant but decided to take a chance on a translated book. I found one error! Plus the book was interesting and full of action.
October 18, 2017
Just couldn't get going with this one. After two chapters I gave up. The writing style was unable to capture my interest.
August 23, 2018
Great mystery. Thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to more novels by Eric Giacometti.
I received this novel through goodreads giveaway.
I received this novel through goodreads giveaway.
September 6, 2018
4,5 Stars
Story: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Writing: 5/5
Genre: 5/5
Story: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Writing: 5/5
Genre: 5/5
January 16, 2022
Bon petit polar ésotérique. Troisième des aventures du commissaire Marcas à la poursuite de l’or philosophale et d’un tueur fou. Du moyen âge à nos jours. Et de Paris à New York. Sympa à lire.
November 12, 2023
L’histoire Donne un peu de perspicacité sur la franc-maçonnerie. Pour le reste beaucoup de suspense et cruauté.
March 25, 2024
Je suis mitigé, il y a de longs passages que je zappe et je reviens lire plus tard
Je vais faire une pause avec la série Antoine Marcas #5 ...
J'ai reçu le dernier Joël Dicker, je suis déjà à fond.
Je vais faire une pause avec la série Antoine Marcas #5 ...
J'ai reçu le dernier Joël Dicker, je suis déjà à fond.
April 23, 2023
The Lafayette Sword (Antoine Marcas Freemason Thrillers – Book 2) by Eric Giacometti and Jacques Ravenne
266 Pages
Publisher: Le French Book
Release Date: August 15, 2016
Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Police Detective, Paris, France
Antoine Marcas is a French police detective and a Freemason. At a night initiation, he goes to get the initiate only to find him dead. The killer believes he is the Sword of Light. He is searching for the Philosopher’s Stone and the secrets of alchemical gold. Nicholas Flamel is a scribe He is asked witness and record the store of Flore, a woman the Torturer is questions. The Aurora group has interested in the world’s gold. They send Jack, an agent from Pensacola, Florida to track and tail the killer.
The book has a steady pace, the characters are somewhat developed, and it is written in the first-person point of view. The story begins in Paris and heads to New York and back again. Marcas receives help from Ray of Harlem, but he will need all the help he can get to solve this mystery and catch the killer before anyone else dies. If you like international thrillers, you will enjoy this one.
266 Pages
Publisher: Le French Book
Release Date: August 15, 2016
Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Police Detective, Paris, France
Antoine Marcas is a French police detective and a Freemason. At a night initiation, he goes to get the initiate only to find him dead. The killer believes he is the Sword of Light. He is searching for the Philosopher’s Stone and the secrets of alchemical gold. Nicholas Flamel is a scribe He is asked witness and record the store of Flore, a woman the Torturer is questions. The Aurora group has interested in the world’s gold. They send Jack, an agent from Pensacola, Florida to track and tail the killer.
The book has a steady pace, the characters are somewhat developed, and it is written in the first-person point of view. The story begins in Paris and heads to New York and back again. Marcas receives help from Ray of Harlem, but he will need all the help he can get to solve this mystery and catch the killer before anyone else dies. If you like international thrillers, you will enjoy this one.
August 15, 2016
The Lafayette Sword is a story told from three perspectives. First we have the present day murder of two men in a Freemason Lodge, the second is about a scribe in 14th century France, and the third is involves a mysterious organization known as Aurora.
Antoine Marcas, a police detective, while attending a ceremony at his Freemason Lodge in Paris, discovers the body of a man who was to be initiated into the Freemasons. Then an old friend of Antoine’s is found dead in his wheel chair. The murder is chased, through secret passages and hidden tunnels under the streets of Paris. But the murder knows well his terrain, trapping Antoine is a chamber with no exit. The chamber fills with water as the murder watches and asks questions about why he became a Freemason. Antoine nearly drowns, but the killer lets him live deeming him to be a worthy Freemason brother.
Antoine’s friend had left a letter for him which told of a secret involving Lafayette’s descendants, and alchemy. There were also clues to the sword Lafayette had used during the American Revolution. Antoine figures out the clues and finds the sword. On the blade is an inscription that is another clue to something in New York City. While at a movie theater with his son, Antoine is approached by the killer who threatens Antoine’s son unless he tells what was on the sword. From this point on, Antoine and the murder are in a race to discover the secret behind the clues, and for Antoine to catch the murder.
The second story line is about Nicholas Flamel, a scribe who after viewing the public execution of a man for a crime against the King, is called upon to record the questioning of the mans traveling companion. The companion is a young woman whose mother’s life was saved by the executed man, an alchemist. But what they really want to know is where his book of alchemy, known as the Book of Adam is. Nicholas is disgusted and troubled by the torture he has witnessed. Later he goes to talk to the torturer and ends up killing him and taking the book the torturer was asking about.
The Aurora group is concerned with gold, the price of gold, and keeping the price of gold stable. When the possibility of alchemically produced gold puts them on Antoine’s tail, and consequently the murders tail.
The three story lines are interspersed throughout the book. The two main stories of Antoine and Nicholas are both interesting, and as you get deeper into the book, it becomes evident how they are connected. Eventually they merge and the scene is set for the finale that starts at the Statue of Liberty and ends at the Eiffel Tower.
This was an engrossing book, in that the more you read, the more you wanted to read. Similar in many ways to the DaVinci Code and other Dan Brown novels featuring Robert Langdon. Also to Clive Cussler’s Dirk Pitt adventure stories
This book was provided by the publisher, Le French Book, and NetGalley in return for an unbiased review.
Antoine Marcas, a police detective, while attending a ceremony at his Freemason Lodge in Paris, discovers the body of a man who was to be initiated into the Freemasons. Then an old friend of Antoine’s is found dead in his wheel chair. The murder is chased, through secret passages and hidden tunnels under the streets of Paris. But the murder knows well his terrain, trapping Antoine is a chamber with no exit. The chamber fills with water as the murder watches and asks questions about why he became a Freemason. Antoine nearly drowns, but the killer lets him live deeming him to be a worthy Freemason brother.
Antoine’s friend had left a letter for him which told of a secret involving Lafayette’s descendants, and alchemy. There were also clues to the sword Lafayette had used during the American Revolution. Antoine figures out the clues and finds the sword. On the blade is an inscription that is another clue to something in New York City. While at a movie theater with his son, Antoine is approached by the killer who threatens Antoine’s son unless he tells what was on the sword. From this point on, Antoine and the murder are in a race to discover the secret behind the clues, and for Antoine to catch the murder.
The second story line is about Nicholas Flamel, a scribe who after viewing the public execution of a man for a crime against the King, is called upon to record the questioning of the mans traveling companion. The companion is a young woman whose mother’s life was saved by the executed man, an alchemist. But what they really want to know is where his book of alchemy, known as the Book of Adam is. Nicholas is disgusted and troubled by the torture he has witnessed. Later he goes to talk to the torturer and ends up killing him and taking the book the torturer was asking about.
The Aurora group is concerned with gold, the price of gold, and keeping the price of gold stable. When the possibility of alchemically produced gold puts them on Antoine’s tail, and consequently the murders tail.
The three story lines are interspersed throughout the book. The two main stories of Antoine and Nicholas are both interesting, and as you get deeper into the book, it becomes evident how they are connected. Eventually they merge and the scene is set for the finale that starts at the Statue of Liberty and ends at the Eiffel Tower.
This was an engrossing book, in that the more you read, the more you wanted to read. Similar in many ways to the DaVinci Code and other Dan Brown novels featuring Robert Langdon. Also to Clive Cussler’s Dirk Pitt adventure stories
This book was provided by the publisher, Le French Book, and NetGalley in return for an unbiased review.
September 13, 2016
Translated by Anne Trager
Uncovering the mysteries of the Freemasons.
Antoine Marcas, a Homicide Inspector with the French police is attending his Freemason Lodge for an initiation ceremony. The ceremony is about to begin but when someone goes to call the initiate, they discover that he has been murdered. Marcas and his fellow Masons immediately start a search for the killer (they know the person is still on the premises)
Wheelchair bound Paul de Lambre, Marcas’ friend and fellow Mason has been left alone in the hall while the others search and on returning, they discover that Paul has also been murdered and that The Marquis de Lafayette’s Masonic sword, one of the most valuable items in their museum is missing.
Marcas makes a pledge, not just as a Homicide Detective but also to his deceased friend, that he will solve the murder and find and return the sword to the museum. Not only is the sword valuable but it had belonged to one of the most powerful Freemason families of which Paul de Lambre is a direct descendant.
There are two storylines running concurrently in the novel, that of Marcas’ search for the murderer and the story of Nicolas Flamel, a scribe who lived in Paris in the 1330s. One of his most distressing tasks as a scribe, was being ordered to write all that a young woman, Flore de Ceneviėres, says while being tortured by Jehan Arthus, the man appointed to interrogate suspected heretics. Arthus extreme torture methods seems to concentrate more on whether the girl has knowledge on the secrets of alchemy than whether she is a heretic.
This is the second novel I’ve read featuring Antoine Marcas and I must once again, congratulate both authors on their ability to weave historical and esoteric information into a fast-paced murder/mystery. Having Antoine Marcas as both a policeman and a Freemason allows the authors to educate the general public on the origins and place that Freemasonry has played throughout history. This society has always been shrouded in secrecy, but through this series, we get to learn more about the society and its role not just in today’s world, but throughout history.
Treebeard
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
Uncovering the mysteries of the Freemasons.
Antoine Marcas, a Homicide Inspector with the French police is attending his Freemason Lodge for an initiation ceremony. The ceremony is about to begin but when someone goes to call the initiate, they discover that he has been murdered. Marcas and his fellow Masons immediately start a search for the killer (they know the person is still on the premises)
Wheelchair bound Paul de Lambre, Marcas’ friend and fellow Mason has been left alone in the hall while the others search and on returning, they discover that Paul has also been murdered and that The Marquis de Lafayette’s Masonic sword, one of the most valuable items in their museum is missing.
Marcas makes a pledge, not just as a Homicide Detective but also to his deceased friend, that he will solve the murder and find and return the sword to the museum. Not only is the sword valuable but it had belonged to one of the most powerful Freemason families of which Paul de Lambre is a direct descendant.
There are two storylines running concurrently in the novel, that of Marcas’ search for the murderer and the story of Nicolas Flamel, a scribe who lived in Paris in the 1330s. One of his most distressing tasks as a scribe, was being ordered to write all that a young woman, Flore de Ceneviėres, says while being tortured by Jehan Arthus, the man appointed to interrogate suspected heretics. Arthus extreme torture methods seems to concentrate more on whether the girl has knowledge on the secrets of alchemy than whether she is a heretic.
This is the second novel I’ve read featuring Antoine Marcas and I must once again, congratulate both authors on their ability to weave historical and esoteric information into a fast-paced murder/mystery. Having Antoine Marcas as both a policeman and a Freemason allows the authors to educate the general public on the origins and place that Freemasonry has played throughout history. This society has always been shrouded in secrecy, but through this series, we get to learn more about the society and its role not just in today’s world, but throughout history.
Treebeard
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
December 14, 2016
“The Lafayette Sword” eBook was published in 2016 and was written by Eric Giacometti and Jacques Ravenne (http://www.giacometti-ravenne-polar.com). They have published several books. This is the second book in their “Antoine Marcas Freemason Thrillers”.
I received a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The story is set in contemporary Paris and New York. The primary character is French police detective Antoine Marcas, and 14th century French scribe Nicolas Flamel.
Marcas is at a Masonic Lodge meeting in Paris, when a mysterious killer strikes two dead. He pursues, and barely escapes death himself. As he digs into the investigation, he finds that it is tied to Masonic history and lore. It is also tied to events that occurred in 1855 Paris.
In 1855 Nicolas Flamel was a Mason living in Paris. Through a series of odd circumstances he finds himself involved in an effort to seek out a hidden process to transmute metals into gold. His efforts are kept secret by brother Masons over the centuries.
Marcas chases clues through Masonic lodges in Paris, then to New York. His efforts reveal a tie to the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, and Masons working behind the scenes. Complicating the investigation is a clandestine organization that is secretly controlling the gold market.
I enjoyed the 6.5 hours I spent with this 350 page Mystery Thriller. It is a little reminiscent of Dan Brown’s “Da Vinci Code” in that Marcas chases clues from one Masonic location to another much in the same way Brown’s Langdon character went from one Catholic church or monument to another. This isn’t quite as good as Brown’s tales. There were plenty of plot twists and turns. This book can be read without first reading the prior book of the series “Shadow Ritual” (https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/2015...). The cover art is well chosen for the story. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I received a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The story is set in contemporary Paris and New York. The primary character is French police detective Antoine Marcas, and 14th century French scribe Nicolas Flamel.
Marcas is at a Masonic Lodge meeting in Paris, when a mysterious killer strikes two dead. He pursues, and barely escapes death himself. As he digs into the investigation, he finds that it is tied to Masonic history and lore. It is also tied to events that occurred in 1855 Paris.
In 1855 Nicolas Flamel was a Mason living in Paris. Through a series of odd circumstances he finds himself involved in an effort to seek out a hidden process to transmute metals into gold. His efforts are kept secret by brother Masons over the centuries.
Marcas chases clues through Masonic lodges in Paris, then to New York. His efforts reveal a tie to the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, and Masons working behind the scenes. Complicating the investigation is a clandestine organization that is secretly controlling the gold market.
I enjoyed the 6.5 hours I spent with this 350 page Mystery Thriller. It is a little reminiscent of Dan Brown’s “Da Vinci Code” in that Marcas chases clues from one Masonic location to another much in the same way Brown’s Langdon character went from one Catholic church or monument to another. This isn’t quite as good as Brown’s tales. There were plenty of plot twists and turns. This book can be read without first reading the prior book of the series “Shadow Ritual” (https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/2015...). The cover art is well chosen for the story. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
August 22, 2016
Murder Rocks the Freemasons in Paris
Detective Antoine Marcas is pleased to be serving as the grand expert for the night's Freemason initiation ceremony. But, when he enters to the chamber of reflection where the man is waiting, he finds the initiate dead on the floor in a pool of blood. What's worse, when he confronts the murderer, he discovers it's another Freemason brother.
In 1355, Nicolas Flamel is closing his shop. Riots are a concern when an execution is taking place. In this case a Jew will be burned at the stake at the behest of the King. Nicolas is dragged unwillingly to the scene of the execution. He's sickened by it and by the role played by his new neighbor, the torturer. However, the torturer drags him into the drama, taking down the words of a young woman being tortured.
The authors skillfully weaves these plots together in the hunt for the murder. The underlying theme is alchemy and the ends to which the greed of men will take them in a search for pure gold. Marcas is a troubled character because of the link between his Freemason brothers and the explosion of greed and murder. It goes against the Freemason principles he cherishes.
I found the background on the Freemasons very interesting. I had often wondered about the brotherhood and their rituals. This book gives a good description of the activities and beliefs of the society.
The book is fast paced. It toggles back and forth between the present and 1355, but the plots are easy to follow because the chapters are short and there are hints of the way the pieces will fit together. I highly recommend this book, not only for the mystery, but for the fascinating background on the Freemasons.
I received this book from Le French Book for this review.
Detective Antoine Marcas is pleased to be serving as the grand expert for the night's Freemason initiation ceremony. But, when he enters to the chamber of reflection where the man is waiting, he finds the initiate dead on the floor in a pool of blood. What's worse, when he confronts the murderer, he discovers it's another Freemason brother.
In 1355, Nicolas Flamel is closing his shop. Riots are a concern when an execution is taking place. In this case a Jew will be burned at the stake at the behest of the King. Nicolas is dragged unwillingly to the scene of the execution. He's sickened by it and by the role played by his new neighbor, the torturer. However, the torturer drags him into the drama, taking down the words of a young woman being tortured.
The authors skillfully weaves these plots together in the hunt for the murder. The underlying theme is alchemy and the ends to which the greed of men will take them in a search for pure gold. Marcas is a troubled character because of the link between his Freemason brothers and the explosion of greed and murder. It goes against the Freemason principles he cherishes.
I found the background on the Freemasons very interesting. I had often wondered about the brotherhood and their rituals. This book gives a good description of the activities and beliefs of the society.
The book is fast paced. It toggles back and forth between the present and 1355, but the plots are easy to follow because the chapters are short and there are hints of the way the pieces will fit together. I highly recommend this book, not only for the mystery, but for the fascinating background on the Freemasons.
I received this book from Le French Book for this review.
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