Blood Symbols

by Izak Botha

Librarian Note: This a previously-published edition of ISBN-10: 0620747854 / ISBN-13: 9780620747851.

March 2012, in a vault beneath the Vatican's Penitentiary Office, home to the most protected secret of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, a priest lies in a pool of his own blood, his lung pierced, his throat slit. Above him, the assailant scans the altar for a secret artifact. Not far off in the Secret Archives Library, thirty-one-year-old Jennifer Jaine, a lapsed PhD student in religious studies and now aspiring journalist from New York, inspects the Church's oldest copy of the Bible, the Codex Vaticanus. Driven by skepticism, Jennifer locks horns with the Cardinal Librarian. Her challenge to age-old Catholic traditions raises the cardinal's hackles. Failure looms as Jennifer takes flight. Defying boundaries, she breaks into the Vatican's underground bunker, and when she inadvertently uncovers the mysterious "Q" manuscript, the hypothesized source of the Synoptic Gospels that the Vatican fiercely denies to exist, she realizes the story could jump-start her career-if she does not die first. Thus, begins her journey: her flight from the oppressors who will go to any lengths to keep their deception from exposure; her abduction by a Turk accused of stealing the artefact and murdering the priest; her adventure when she helps exhume the long-buried remains of a celebrated biblical figure; and her discovery that the true power and authority of God purportedly invested in the Bishop of Rome, never extended beyond the borders of Turkey, but remained in the obscure biblical city of Antioch. With the Vatican's claim to the power and authority of God on the line, the implications are staggering.

Genres: Fiction, Thriller

Paperback

First published May 7, 2017

About the author

Izak Botha is a perpetual student of life, a former artist, athlete, principal performer with the Cape Town City Ballet, counselor, architect, media entrepreneur, successful litigator versus national corporations, and now author of three titles: Homo Angelicansis, Angelicals Reviewed, and Blood Symbols, which made Semi Finalist in Publishers Weekly’s Book Life Prize 2017. Settled on South Africa’s Garden Route, Botha is presently working on his new novel.

Reviews

[Shanell Meek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazingly well written and full of twists and turns

Blood Symbols by Izak Botha follows the main character Jennifer Jaine as she embarks on a spiritual journey that will change her life forever. On her journey Jennifer experiences many exciting encounters as she continues on her quest for answers regarding the church, and Jesus. The book addresses secrets, theories, conspiracies and many other aspects of religion. The whole story is fast paced and full of unexpected twists and turns that keeps you on your toes. I really enjoyed reading this book, Botha certainly knows how to draw a reader in and keep them immersed from the moment you open the book until the very last page. I find myself hoping that Izak Botha writes more books like this one as I found myself thoroughly enjoying it. I feel like anyone who has an I threat in religious or faith would really like this book, it may even help those who are on their own religious adventure.

[Katherine Hebert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Religion, Mystery and Action

A lot of reviewers compare Botha’s Blood Symbols to the Da Vinci Code. I agree. There is a lot of action in the book that will blow your mind yet it is deeply psychological and will leave you contemplating ideas long after you finish the book. Proof of that? My husband is currently reading the book so we can discuss it.

I found the book to be slightly difficult to read (and I’m a Catholic) but an interesting main character (Jennifer) and descriptive imagery make it worthwhile.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engrossing and entertaining book. I loved the plot, the well written cast of characters and the setting.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

[Elsa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually 3.5

[Isaac (Ike) Standifird · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story line. I feel like I should get some kind of degree or at least a certificate in theology for finishing this.

[Mar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood Symbols by Izak Botha is a book that will make you turn your pages up to the very end. Obviously, it fits right into the category of any of Dan Brown’s books: conspiracy theories, murders, secrets that would destroy important organizations, high-speed chasing in city streets, it has everything. Cleverly, the author chose to focus in the figure of the Apostles and in the story of the Pope’s succession, but the comparisons are inevitable.
Although the plot may not be original, the way the story is built is surprisingly good and keeps the consistency right up to the end. The characters are strong and multi-layered and we can witness the main character – Jennifer Jaine – as she struggles to come to terms to her faith and everything she always believed in. The story has an amazing pace with always something new happening, but without being overwhelming. There is nothing wrong in following a successful formula if you can make it with this kind of quality, and Izak Botha can.

[Pegboard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennifer Jaine is not making friends among the Vatican’s residents as she searches for truths that will answer the doubts she has about her faith. Izak Botha takes you along in Blood Symbols as Jennifer breaks boundaries and uncovers secrets meant to stay hidden. To fail is the most devastating feeling she has encountered, and she doesn’t wish to go down that path again. With men wishing her dead she meets men that may have the answers she seeks. This world isn’t America and dangers could come from anyone or thing.
 
I love the unique and intriguing plot of Blood Symbols. Izak Botha’s writing places you within the story as you picture the death of a priest, running for your life, or being abducted. The adventurous twists and turns in this novel will keep you hanging on each word, hungry to see how it will unfold. Desperate to see if Jennifer finds the answers she is pursuing or will she die trying.    

[Conscientious · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennifer Jaine thoughts are always on the go. In the midst of her PhD, she is set to uncover some truths which are dangerous to her wellbeing. Right from her arrival for the interview to an important church official and to getting caught up in the middle of the murder of a young Father, Jennifer is baffled being aided by a complete stranger who can be a friend or a foe? Jennifer is immersed in an exhilarating journey and the answer is in whether she will hold her ground against such humongous ordeals.

This novel is impossible to put down till the very end, it interweaves lengthy discussions which are pragmatic to the character's essence. The flair of the author's flow of the storyline is conspicuous, we see it reflected in how Jennifer makes decisions and her struggle with her thoughts. This novel is outstanding with encompassing complexity and mystery of the Catholic Church. Highly recommend to anyone who is looking for a take on Catholic theology with a mystery thriller. 

[Julius Blitzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am already familiar with the book « Angelicals Reviewed » by Izak Botha and it seems to me that the author in his books tries to tell the reader something new about religion, to show other points of view. For example, in one book he tries to find out what the soul is and how to relate to it, he brings various hypotheses and opinions. Here is the topic of religion too, but the main character’s distrust of the principles and rules of the Catholic faith.
People who strongly believe and unbelievers in religion and God, in my opinion, will be interested in reading this book. In any case, you can discover something new.
A story with elements of a detective story where the heroine tries to discover all the secrets and find answers to all the secrets. It is interesting to follow all the actions and events.
I recommend everyone to buy and read, because this topic will always be relevant.

[Dani Savante · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Vatican and its files have always been a place which raises my curiosity and intrigue. This book, set in this fascinating place, portrays an incredible and captivating story that will satisfy lovers of mystery books and people like me who enjoy discovering such legendary sites through reading. 
A woman who has lost her faith, a murdered priest, a stolen object and an intruder on the run unfold a thrilling and compelling plot full of suspense and action. These events will take Jennifer from the Vatican to Turkey in a hair-raising chase to discover some hidden truths. Truths that can shake the foundations of the Church. 
The plot is original and creative and the characters are very well-drawn. This is a story that will captivate readers from the very beginning and that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the last page. I strongly recommend it.

[Ruth Devlin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I originally chose this book because the description of it made me think it would be along the lines of Dan Brown's classic novels-DaVinci Code, and Angels & Demons. For me, it never rose to the levels of those novels. While the premise was believable, the writing around the biblical issues being explored was confusing. Several times in the book, after reading and rereading explanations, I had to ask a friend who is a pastor to explain the concepts being posited. I feel like I should have been able to follow the thought trains of the characters as they explored the mystery without seeking outside help (although my friend was very gracious in his explanations).
And the ending? It seemed like the author wanted to quickly wrap up the story with a "they lived happily ever after" which was trite and disappointing.

[Joni Haynes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this fascinating book from Goodreads. It's the type of novel that puts one in mind of the books (and later movies) by Dan Brown. The story purports to put the lie to the Apostolic progression of popes in the Catholic Church. It seems to show that Paul was actually on the side of the Romans...and that he had a hand in the killing of both Jesus and Peter. There are many twists and turns in the story, which is what makes it so interesting...but, at the end of the book, we find a little love story, which makes it sweet. The only surprise is that the author says the book cannot be given away...he said if you want to let someone else read the book, you should buy them their own copy. Hmmm.

[Jimmy Jefferson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wild thriller filled with lies and twisted truths.

Blood symbols is a thriller from the first page. Jennifer is a student studying religion when she discovers a secret that could destroy the entire Catholic religion. As she follows the clues, she ends up at the Vatican to interview a high ranked official in the church. As Jennifer makes her way through the depths of the mystery, a body is found near a room that houses sacred texts and there is a discovery of one missing. The story follows a good line and is a fun read that keeps you entertained and interested from the beginning. Will Jennifer protect a secret or destroy a legacy? Grab a copy and read it for yourself. The characters are well developed and relatable. Check this one out folks.

[Nela · Rating 4 out of 5]

In general, I did not like to compare authors or books. I think all of them should have their particularities and qualities by themselves. But in this case, I found it necessary to mention that this book could be really enjoyed by Dan Brown lovers.

“Blood Symbols” by author Izak Botha is a thrilling historical religious mystery, and it's really difficult to put it down. While reading it, I was trying to solve this deeply puzzling mystery while navigating through a constant, gripping tale of suspense. I think that “engaging” or “catching” is not enough to describe this plot; poignant or absorbing could be suitable adjectives for this read.

All in all, I highly recommend it to everyone who likes the mystery and thriller genre.

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Religion is a synonym of mystery.

In Blood Symbols by author Izak Botha the story develops around Jennifer Jaine. She is in the middle of her Ph.D. when all her faith and beliefs are shaken. She convinced herself that the Catholic church’s authority is based on a lie but will try to prove she's wrong. For that reason, she starts a journey in which she will discover dangerous information and secrets.
No matter if we are believers or completely non-believers, nobody can deny that religion is the stuff of great stories.
I have been fascinated with this since the first page. The plot is so interesting that I couldn't stop reading. I really liked how the author kept the mystery throughout the whole story without it getting boring. I want to read more about this story and this author!

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood Symbols by Izak Botha is a novel based on a controversial topic. Is the Catholic Church based on a lie? This is what Jennifer, a student currently working on her PhD studies on religion, wants to prove right or wrong. While working in the Vatican, she has the chance of interviewing important people there and it is there when mystery starts.
The narrative is loaded with biblical topics and catholic dogmas and themes related to Catholicism which may sometimes be confusing if you do not practice this religion. However, the book never gets boring or hard to follow. It is made up of 55 chapters. Each of them is as catchy as the last one.
All in all, the narrative is absorbing and it contains good-quality information on religion, those into this theme would find it way too attractive.

[Pearl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably one of the most intriguing books I have read these days. Blood Symbols by Izak Botha is a story centered around the heroine Jennifer Jaine, a determined lady who seek for the truth about the Catholic religion and its churches and the Pope. This book oozes controversy as of course, in reality, there are many sides of the story, depending on what you believe or what you have been taught to believe.

I love that the book keeps me guessing what will happen in the end. There were interesting series of events that made me feel surprised. Revelations were also shocking. I know that this is a work of fiction but the way it was portrayed, it's as if the story is based in real events. A very well thought-out of book!

[Lauren Callahan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a cross between the DaVinci Code and a slight premise of the Godfather, especially with the violence. There needed to be a little more meat to several of the scenes, which unfortunately was stolen due to the shooting scenes. It is a fascinating read, but the writing needs a little work.
The plot and was an interesting supposition, but it has been written on so many ways that I felt I had read some of the surmises in other books. My fault, being a Catholic, I'm always searching for the truth behind the shroud and treasure hunting for religious icons and artifacts.
There is adventure, there is intrigue and the book is definitely worth the read!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennifer Jaine travels to the Vatican, desperate to prove her theory and suspicions that the Catholic Church is involved with a deadly conspiracy that would forever alter the planets understanding of faith. Chased by the Vatican guards, assisted by two handsome men with their own agendas, Jennifer will have to make the ultimate leap of faith.
I like books in the vein of “The Davinci code” and this book is a worthy addition to that genre. Full of action, intrigue, mystery and cover ups, there is little that will leave you wanting. The pacing is fast, except for the areas when the author gives longwinded descriptions, but other than that this was well worth the read.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Blood Symbols" is an intriguing novel written by Isaac Botha, in which interesting and controversial topics, such as religion, are dealt with.
In this work, author Botha introduces us to Jennifer Jaine, a young woman who in the middle of her doctorate, became convinced that the authority of the Catholic Church is based on a lie. Jennifer must spend a long time testing her theory.
In general, I liked the book. The characters are well described and the plot is interesting. I noticed that the story moves fast in some parts, but in some others the pace is very slow. I feel there is not a good balance. All in all, I think it is a good story.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from a goodreads giveaway. This has not impacted my review.

I was utterly enthralled by this book.
The title caught my eye immediately as I have enjoyed other books in this genre. I was not expecting it to be as good as it was.
Blood Symbols is full of conspiracy, action, anticipation and quite deep philosophical questions. The care taken with the plot and the attention to details give the book a sense of realism and left me thing that, yes, this could actually be real. I would highly recommend this book.

[Charlie Latham · Rating 4 out of 5]

A search for the truth, in a world that’s filled with secrets, cover-ups, and people trying to hide away what is really fact.

This book brazenly takes the Christian church head-on, in what it says is true and the story that it presents to most of the public.

The protagonist, Jennifer travels through Rome and Turkey on a quest that she’s not willing to give up no matter the cost.

I’m super interested in Christianity, even though I myself am not Christian and this was the perfect mix for me of action, excitement, intrigue, and Christianity all mixed into one.

A great read!

[Archie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting plot!
The fiction book is based on finding the truth about the Catholic church and its existence. Its weaved into a story wherein Jennifer, who is doing a PhD. In religious studies wants to find the truth and gets an opportunity to interview high profile people in the Vatican. But a series of incidents a murder, an intruder, takes her to an old church in Turkey, where she risks her life to find the truth or may just be somebody facing the consequences of knowing the truth. Interesting twists in the plot with murder and finding the truth kept me going.

[Mariuca Asavoaie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood Symbols by Izak Botha starts with an unusual idea. Jennifer Jane, the main character, starts to question the reality being the Catholic Church. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed the idea and the writing itself, I found myself sometimes wondering about some aspects from the book. The book brings forward many ideas from the Bible and from the Catholic dogma, so reading it without having a more than general knowledge might be a bit troubling. Nevertheless, I enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone who is passionate by the idea.

[Lorna Gundaker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received Blood Symbols from a giveaway from Goodreads. Thank you. From the small trailer I thought the book would have Dan Brown elements, and it did. I enjoyed the fast pace of The DaVinci Code, but not its conclusion, however literary.Blood Symbols is quite similar. The hidden secrets of millennia and all the trappings that go with it are interesting enough, but, again the path of the book left me cold. I’m not saying it is not a thriller, just not for me.

[Threasa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another book I won on Goodreads, and I am glad I did. Jennifer Jaine is halfway through with her doctorate, but she starts questioning her faith. She sees things that make her believe the Catholic Church is based on a lie. She goes to the Vatican to find an artifact, but it all hits the fan. She is caught up in an international intrigue which may take her life. This is a very interesting book, and I would recommend it for reading.

[Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book. ‘Blood Symbols’ is a well-written thriller that takes you all around the Vatican while Jennifer Jaine looks for the truth that the Church has been hiding and how her discoveries change what she believes. She is faced with the choice of forgetting what she learns or taking on the Catholic Church herself. Izak Botha conjures up fantastic imagery and weaves together a story that will keep you guessing and turning pages until the end. A must-read for fans of thrillers.

[Kathryn Laing · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting novel of discovery and deceit around the Roman Catholic church. Jennifer Jaine has had a crisis of faith and is at the Vatican trying to find answers when she runs into Simon Kepa. Follow them as the plot twists and turns as they find archaeological treasures dating back to the Apostles, that turns the scriptures upside down.

[Steve Bender · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this ebook in a Goodreads Giveaway. It is a fastmoving thriller about a woman who is doubting her faith. The story involves the Roman Catholic Church's desire to hide the conflict between the Apostles Paul and the early Jewish church. Interesting reading, but has a few holes in the theory.

[Susan Trofatter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reminded me of the DaVinci Code. It is about the Vatican Archives, a mystery, an unwilling heroine, warring factions, priests (and cardinals!) with guns, Swiss Guards. It’s a romp, and a very fast read.