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The Coordinate
A thrilling cross-continental Dan Brown-style action adventure that blends sci-fi and ancient conspiracies seamlessly...
Logan West and Emma James grew up together but are now high school seniors going in totally opposite directions after graduation. When they are assigned to work together on one last history project, they hardly expect the monotony of high school life to change.
Instead, as they decode a series of unexplained clues hidden within their history project itself, Logan and Emma manage to unfold an ancient mystery that has baffled scientists and archeologists, one with powerful implications for the present day.
As they embrace the adventure they’ve stumbled upon, and a growing romantic attraction to each other, Logan and Emma find themselves caught up in a dangerous, high-stakes race across the globe to decipher mankind’s past in order to save humanity’s future, not to mention their very own lives, with a mystery that just might reach towards the stars…
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 24, 2019
1535 people are currently reading
1033 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
March 17, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
Overall, very enjoyable Da Vinci Code style book. However, it was the ages of the two main characters I couldn’t get behind - high school kids solving ancient riddles that top scientists have spent years of researching and couldn’t figure them out.
Overall, very enjoyable Da Vinci Code style book. However, it was the ages of the two main characters I couldn’t get behind - high school kids solving ancient riddles that top scientists have spent years of researching and couldn’t figure them out.
July 5, 2023
A school history project between two old friends turns into a competition spanning the globe as Logan and Emma work out an ancient mystery that has baffled scientists and archeologists for years.
Maybe like a Da Vinci Code for younger readers?
This was not for me.
I cannot believe two teenagers managed to solve this issue that the smartest geniuses, services, intelligences have been trying to crack for years haven’t? I know ‘suspension of belief’ and all that, but this took that a little too far.
I think Jacobs just wanted to show off how he excelled at Excel (yep I did that). And his knowledge of other languages where Emma just kept spouting Italian with no actual translation most of the time.
Sadly, there were just too many numbers and coordinates and letters for my attention not to wander when listening to the audiobook.
At least it was free.
Bookstagram
Maybe like a Da Vinci Code for younger readers?
This was not for me.
I cannot believe two teenagers managed to solve this issue that the smartest geniuses, services, intelligences have been trying to crack for years haven’t? I know ‘suspension of belief’ and all that, but this took that a little too far.
I think Jacobs just wanted to show off how he excelled at Excel (yep I did that). And his knowledge of other languages where Emma just kept spouting Italian with no actual translation most of the time.
Sadly, there were just too many numbers and coordinates and letters for my attention not to wander when listening to the audiobook.
At least it was free.
Bookstagram
May 28, 2019
I really enjoyed how this novel explores ancient mysteries with a Da Vinci Code flavor and fast-paced excitement. Globe-trotting and fast-paced, this is definitely a book that makes the rest of the world fade away as it drives you deeper into the kind of historical mysteries that have always intrigued me. The two main characters are likeable and (without giving anything away), I sense there are more adventures ahead....Looking forward to them!
March 28, 2019
What Made Me Read It I was sent a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review. The author described it as "Da Vinci Code for the high-school set, with archeological adventures and a sci-fi rather than religious mystery to uncover". As a fan of Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series, that caught my interest.
The Plot 17-year-old Logan West is starting his last year at Jersey North High School, with no future plans other than attend community college after graduation. When a school project pairs him with Emma James, Logan just sees an opportunity to reconnect with his childhood friend. The assignment: to write an essay on historical mysteries with oddities that have baffled historians and scientists alike; their subject - the Copán Temple.
Five years ago, Dr. Jones Arenot discovered a hidden crypt underneath the ruins of the Copán Temple in Western Honduras - the Secret Chamber of the White-Eyed Star God, a large spherical room with strange gravitational and temporal anomalies, and covered with thousands of seemingly random Mayan hieroglyphic numbers carved on the walls.
Logan and Emma begin their research only to find missing links, removed pictures and deleted websites related to the archeological discovery. Their only clue may lie in Christopher Columbus' personal journals of his 4th voyage to the New World, stored inside the Vatican Secret Archives. Determined to finish the increasingly puzzling project, Logan and Emma set out to Italy.
But what started out as an exciting weekend getaway rapidly turns into a dangerous race against time, as the CIA takes a sudden interest in their activities and international mercenaries try to kill them. Logan and Emma find themselves running for their lives, from the Archiginnasio in the University of Bologna, through the Norwegian fjords and into Britain's Stonehenge, while trying to decipher a message hundreds of years old connecting ancient landmarks to constellations in the night sky.
The Good "The Coordinate" is a young adult adventure and mystery thriller, with both historical and science fiction elements, reminiscent of Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series and the National Treasure movies but without the religious theme and spanning several continents and historical landmarks. It follows the journey of two high school senior students working on a history project that draws unwanted attention from security agencies and mercenaries alike, while they try to unravel a mystery that connects ancient monuments to constellations in the night sky and a hidden message that could change the future of mankind.
The first half of the novel centers around the initial clues the two main characters, Logan and Emma, must decipher in order to complete the school project. The mystery is engaging and very intriguing; not only did the author do extensive research to include actual facts and real background information, but he brilliantly weaves it all with mythological legends, crackpot conspiracy theories and fictional elements from his own imagination into a whole that is not just credible but actually believable. The pace picks up in the 2nd half of the book, with chase and action sequences that are pure adrenaline rush, keeping us on the edge of our seats and with plot twists I did not see coming.
All the background information poured into the novel doesn't feel like an info dump and in no way slows down the pace or hinders the narrative, the author even includes a few maps and diagrams to help visualize the clues the main characters work through. Each piece of extra data is delivered in a natural way, from Google searches, to museum brochures and specific characters in specific situations where we expect them to possess that kind of knowledge. That isn't always easy to achieve but the author nails it throughout the novel.
The two main characters are 3-dimensional and believable, acting according to their age and personalities. Emma is the most daring of the pair, wanting one last adventure before following the path her attorney father set out for her. Logan isn't as brave but is willing to step out of his comfort zone and do anything to impress his childhood crush. The two teenagers complement each other, drawing on the other's strengths to solve the puzzles; their romance isn't the typical YA instalove kind but fits the characters, flows naturally and is not the center of the plot... which, for me, is a huge bonus since I tend to dislike any romantic element forced into the narrative.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 5 of 5 stars. "The Coordinate" is a fun, action-packed young adult novel, with an intriguing mystery and a thrilling engaging plot. Recommended for those who enjoy adventure stories with historical puzzles and sci-fi elements.
The Plot 17-year-old Logan West is starting his last year at Jersey North High School, with no future plans other than attend community college after graduation. When a school project pairs him with Emma James, Logan just sees an opportunity to reconnect with his childhood friend. The assignment: to write an essay on historical mysteries with oddities that have baffled historians and scientists alike; their subject - the Copán Temple.
Five years ago, Dr. Jones Arenot discovered a hidden crypt underneath the ruins of the Copán Temple in Western Honduras - the Secret Chamber of the White-Eyed Star God, a large spherical room with strange gravitational and temporal anomalies, and covered with thousands of seemingly random Mayan hieroglyphic numbers carved on the walls.
Logan and Emma begin their research only to find missing links, removed pictures and deleted websites related to the archeological discovery. Their only clue may lie in Christopher Columbus' personal journals of his 4th voyage to the New World, stored inside the Vatican Secret Archives. Determined to finish the increasingly puzzling project, Logan and Emma set out to Italy.
But what started out as an exciting weekend getaway rapidly turns into a dangerous race against time, as the CIA takes a sudden interest in their activities and international mercenaries try to kill them. Logan and Emma find themselves running for their lives, from the Archiginnasio in the University of Bologna, through the Norwegian fjords and into Britain's Stonehenge, while trying to decipher a message hundreds of years old connecting ancient landmarks to constellations in the night sky.
The Good "The Coordinate" is a young adult adventure and mystery thriller, with both historical and science fiction elements, reminiscent of Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series and the National Treasure movies but without the religious theme and spanning several continents and historical landmarks. It follows the journey of two high school senior students working on a history project that draws unwanted attention from security agencies and mercenaries alike, while they try to unravel a mystery that connects ancient monuments to constellations in the night sky and a hidden message that could change the future of mankind.
The first half of the novel centers around the initial clues the two main characters, Logan and Emma, must decipher in order to complete the school project. The mystery is engaging and very intriguing; not only did the author do extensive research to include actual facts and real background information, but he brilliantly weaves it all with mythological legends, crackpot conspiracy theories and fictional elements from his own imagination into a whole that is not just credible but actually believable. The pace picks up in the 2nd half of the book, with chase and action sequences that are pure adrenaline rush, keeping us on the edge of our seats and with plot twists I did not see coming.
All the background information poured into the novel doesn't feel like an info dump and in no way slows down the pace or hinders the narrative, the author even includes a few maps and diagrams to help visualize the clues the main characters work through. Each piece of extra data is delivered in a natural way, from Google searches, to museum brochures and specific characters in specific situations where we expect them to possess that kind of knowledge. That isn't always easy to achieve but the author nails it throughout the novel.
The two main characters are 3-dimensional and believable, acting according to their age and personalities. Emma is the most daring of the pair, wanting one last adventure before following the path her attorney father set out for her. Logan isn't as brave but is willing to step out of his comfort zone and do anything to impress his childhood crush. The two teenagers complement each other, drawing on the other's strengths to solve the puzzles; their romance isn't the typical YA instalove kind but fits the characters, flows naturally and is not the center of the plot... which, for me, is a huge bonus since I tend to dislike any romantic element forced into the narrative.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 5 of 5 stars. "The Coordinate" is a fun, action-packed young adult novel, with an intriguing mystery and a thrilling engaging plot. Recommended for those who enjoy adventure stories with historical puzzles and sci-fi elements.
January 16, 2022
YA in all of its silly and ridiculous glory. If I were an actual young adult, I probably would give this a 5/5. The situations in this book are so utterly over the top, though, I just can’t bring myself to rate it high. It’s a lot of fun and would make a brilliant movie — book candy for sure.
April 22, 2022
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
This is an enjoyable young adult, science fiction / mystery.
Although fairly far fetched, but what do you expect from a science fiction story it has a nice feel and certainly does not strain the brain too much.
If you fancy a quick read this may be for you.
This is an enjoyable young adult, science fiction / mystery.
Although fairly far fetched, but what do you expect from a science fiction story it has a nice feel and certainly does not strain the brain too much.
If you fancy a quick read this may be for you.
April 10, 2022
This was a pretty good read. I was taken in with the story very quickly and it held my interest all the way through. I never god bored with it which is pretty rare for this type of hunt for clues about ancient aliens type of book. I did not realize thats what it was when I picked it up and I am glad I did not since I usually do not enjoy those books. I would rate it higher but it did play a little too tight with some of the tropes. Other than that it was very well written. I can see reading the next book in this series at some point.
I try not to read the same author two books in a row in order to keep finding new authors. If I did not do that I would read the next book right away. Plus I really want to re-read Heir to the Empire and I am doing that next.
#ancientaliens
I try not to read the same author two books in a row in order to keep finding new authors. If I did not do that I would read the next book right away. Plus I really want to re-read Heir to the Empire and I am doing that next.
#ancientaliens
October 18, 2022
Captivating story line and characters
When I read a book I'm looking for a captivating story and interesting characters. Beyond that and fairly decent grammar, I have no expectations. I don't expect everything to be believable but somewhat plausible. It is science fiction, after all. So, despite some of the plotline getting a little wild and crazy toward the end, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
When I read a book I'm looking for a captivating story and interesting characters. Beyond that and fairly decent grammar, I have no expectations. I don't expect everything to be believable but somewhat plausible. It is science fiction, after all. So, despite some of the plotline getting a little wild and crazy toward the end, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
July 3, 2020
Maybe 4-Star Material ...
The characters in this book were mostly kept moving at a pretty steady clip, and it was an overall amusing story, particularly in how one event led to another.
The weak link, of course, is the INCREDIBLE amount of constant but brilliant insight assigned to the main character(s) — this part of the plot is what stretched my credibility factor.
The characters in this book were mostly kept moving at a pretty steady clip, and it was an overall amusing story, particularly in how one event led to another.
The weak link, of course, is the INCREDIBLE amount of constant but brilliant insight assigned to the main character(s) — this part of the plot is what stretched my credibility factor.
August 30, 2019
Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy of this book. Fantastic!! Similar in pace and cleverness to Da Vinci Code. Look for it when published!!!
October 18, 2024
It was an absolute fantastic read, thought provoking and damn yeah, a tad of action, a tad of crime and a whole lot of smarts. Unfortunately, this is the type of book you'll have to follow every characters' lead; unless you're super smart and wants to show off. The whole book was plot twist sandwiched between crushing teenagers and something more. A lot of mystery, time travel and the end of the beginning to answering or creating new questions about how, when and where.
Is Emma James special? Yes. Is Logan West? Yes. They each think differently and they complement each other, and their life will turn very Sherlock Holmes but Universe and Creation instead of murders and whatnot, but do expect some high speed chasing - on foot. A few bullets and lots of, well -- you'll see. I'm almost afraid to create such high expectations for the sequel, The Hidden Coordinate.
Is Emma James special? Yes. Is Logan West? Yes. They each think differently and they complement each other, and their life will turn very Sherlock Holmes but Universe and Creation instead of murders and whatnot, but do expect some high speed chasing - on foot. A few bullets and lots of, well -- you'll see. I'm almost afraid to create such high expectations for the sequel, The Hidden Coordinate.
March 18, 2022
When I say I could not put this down I mean I literally read all the books in a week. Absolutely loved these books! I fell in love with Issor from the moment I met her. I even bought a set for my niece to read them. Emma is a great strong character and someone every girl can look up to. The writing was captivating and the story kept me hooked wanting more.
These books have mystery, decoding, adventure, travel, young love, space, and so much more. Numerous times I felt I was there with Emma on each adventure seeing what she was seeing through the great imagery and story telling. After reading these books, I am definitely a Marc Jacobs fan.
These books have mystery, decoding, adventure, travel, young love, space, and so much more. Numerous times I felt I was there with Emma on each adventure seeing what she was seeing through the great imagery and story telling. After reading these books, I am definitely a Marc Jacobs fan.
March 19, 2022
The Coordinate Review
I purchased this book several years ago but didn't read it at the time. Recently The Coordinate popped up on my kindle and thinking that I had already read it, I wanted to remind myself of the details since there were two other books that followed this trilogy. Well I didn't read this book earlier and became caught up in the story. I loved it! The storyline held my attention throughout . Now I am ready to select book 2 to continue the adventure. The only downside involves reading two more books to find out how it ends. It is well written.
I purchased this book several years ago but didn't read it at the time. Recently The Coordinate popped up on my kindle and thinking that I had already read it, I wanted to remind myself of the details since there were two other books that followed this trilogy. Well I didn't read this book earlier and became caught up in the story. I loved it! The storyline held my attention throughout . Now I am ready to select book 2 to continue the adventure. The only downside involves reading two more books to find out how it ends. It is well written.
December 9, 2019
The book took me slightly longer than usual to finish the book because of some work commitments but the book read very easily. Easily consumable, you could read this in an afternoon. It definitely has a Dan Brown/Clive Cussler vibe to it. The characters are fun and relatable, particularly to teen audiences. This is a book I would recommend to any of my students who like adventure novels and would also recommend to anyone who likes light-hearted, easy-to-digest adventure novels.
April 26, 2024
This is the kind of SciFi I enjoy. The writer makes you think it is real or could be real in near future. Great for YA. Full of suspense, science, young romance, hope, ability to solve complicated clues and full of twists and turns. Highly recommend. You will have these 2 young people rolling around in your head for a long time. Great and interesting read.
Read
July 7, 2019This is A totally awesome book. Lots of mystery, historical detail and characters that you will fall in love with and want to read more about. I can’t wait to read a sequel which hopefully will be coming out soon. He has one other book out but I am unable to find it anywhere.
August 26, 2020
Absolutely delightful!
A refreshing take on the ancient mysteries of the world, and plausible enough that developments that move this briskly-paced story along don’t take you out of the moment. The ending was unexpected- a delicious twist that has me looking forward to the next book in the series.
A refreshing take on the ancient mysteries of the world, and plausible enough that developments that move this briskly-paced story along don’t take you out of the moment. The ending was unexpected- a delicious twist that has me looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 22, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the main characters. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
January 19, 2020
"A thrilling cross-continental Dan Brown-style action adventure that blends sci-fi and ancient conspiracies seamlessly..."
April 16, 2022
This is a pretty good YA SF story. It has overtones of another SF franchise, but I won't go into specifics for spoiler reasons. Even with that though, it's well plotted and held my interest enough to start the sequel. This was the Audible version.
March 29, 2019
First, before I get into the actual book review, I would like to do a quick disclaimer. Conspiracy theories based around the idea that aliens built ancient architectural wonders and not the (often coded as POC in a modern perspective) ancient civilizations themselves are often the result of, at best, an unquestioned white colonialist bias and perspective. Not to mention the erroneous preconception that technology and culture are always getting better, instead of making leaps forwards and then dips and sometimes going backward, as is actually the case. The book I’m about to review does not challenge those white American/European notions of culture and archeology. On the other hand, it also does not commit to the idea of aliens OR humans building the ancient monuments involved in the story, choosing the leave the amount of building and influencing done by either party to the imagination of the reader. As such, it did good work avoiding many of the traps inherent to its “alien-related archeological mystery” setting. But it didn’t necessarily refute them either.
Now, on to the review.
The Coordinate was a good book, overall. It actually surprised me with how much it made me like its characters. The book starts with some stale tropes about the teen guy who likes *a girl* but she’s dating a jock, which didn’t endear me to the story. Then that same dude goes on to make a lot of the early deductions and flashes of genius in their school project, despite the fact that she is the one who was described as having an interest in cryptography, and I feared that the entire book would follow this irritating structure. But then the author swiftly turned the tables around, with Emma making great discoveries and taking the lead in their mystery, and a revelation about Chad that completely broke the old YA tropes and gave me hope for the rest of the book. From then on, Emma and Logan take turns solving the mystery, and the story hits a really great beat of suspense and drama and a race around the world.
I did have to suspend my disbelief twice, once because the book was being slightly wrong on a subject I’m very knowledgeable about, and the other time because a plot point was verging on the ridiculous. But it was never enough to make me want to stop reading. The book has that particular quality where the writing is just very good, regardless of story, and the author has managed to make the mystery interesting enough that the reader really wants to get to the end.
I particularly enjoyed the quick stint into the Vatican, and that last place they go at the end of the book. Most archeological mysteries do not take us into such a wide variety of places. Usually, a story that starts with an Inca temple doesn’t tend to bring us into roman catholic archives and little caves in Norway and American military bases. But in this book we visit all of those places, and the constant change of scenery keeps the story fresh, while giving a little something to everyone, no matter which type of conspiracy theory you like best.
I really want to see what the author has in store for us next.
The book officially comes out in June 2019, but the author has indicated that anyone who is interested in reading and reviewing an early copy can get in touch at http://marcjacobsauthor.com/contact/ . I encourage you all to do so if you like mystery and archeological quests.
Now, on to the review.
The Coordinate was a good book, overall. It actually surprised me with how much it made me like its characters. The book starts with some stale tropes about the teen guy who likes *a girl* but she’s dating a jock, which didn’t endear me to the story. Then that same dude goes on to make a lot of the early deductions and flashes of genius in their school project, despite the fact that she is the one who was described as having an interest in cryptography, and I feared that the entire book would follow this irritating structure. But then the author swiftly turned the tables around, with Emma making great discoveries and taking the lead in their mystery, and a revelation about Chad that completely broke the old YA tropes and gave me hope for the rest of the book. From then on, Emma and Logan take turns solving the mystery, and the story hits a really great beat of suspense and drama and a race around the world.
I did have to suspend my disbelief twice, once because the book was being slightly wrong on a subject I’m very knowledgeable about, and the other time because a plot point was verging on the ridiculous. But it was never enough to make me want to stop reading. The book has that particular quality where the writing is just very good, regardless of story, and the author has managed to make the mystery interesting enough that the reader really wants to get to the end.
I particularly enjoyed the quick stint into the Vatican, and that last place they go at the end of the book. Most archeological mysteries do not take us into such a wide variety of places. Usually, a story that starts with an Inca temple doesn’t tend to bring us into roman catholic archives and little caves in Norway and American military bases. But in this book we visit all of those places, and the constant change of scenery keeps the story fresh, while giving a little something to everyone, no matter which type of conspiracy theory you like best.
I really want to see what the author has in store for us next.
The book officially comes out in June 2019, but the author has indicated that anyone who is interested in reading and reviewing an early copy can get in touch at http://marcjacobsauthor.com/contact/ . I encourage you all to do so if you like mystery and archeological quests.
May 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this. There was a caption that said picture Lara Croft and Nathan Drake in high school. You have to pause belief here and there with some of the things they accomplish but I still loved it.
March 31, 2019
Marc Jacobs’ novel, "The Coordinate", will not disappoint your high expectations. With action and unsuspecting twists throughout the story, you’ll be viewing the wonders of the world in a completely different way than before, and will be reevaluating your thoughts about the state of our current world. The start of a new adventure series, "The Coordinate" introduces us to our soon-to-be favorite characters of Emma James and Logan West.
Emma and Logan are two average high school teenagers. Logan lives with a loving single- mother who works non-stop to make ends meet, and he is brighter than most kids. Emma lives in a well-to-do home with her parents who try to map out her whole future, and who is equally as bright as Logan. Having been childhood friends who fell out of touch over the years, they are brought back together when they are paired in a group history project assigned on “mysterious” monuments placed around the world.
After some initial research on their topic of the Copán temple, it becomes clear to them both that to find the information they need, it will require a bit more effort than a student would think is needed for a school project. Logan and Emma will learn more about themselves, what they are capable of achieving, and about the impact of their actions. With uncertainty weighing so heavily upon their every move, they will have to pull out every trick in the book to succeed in their plan, while looking to the stars to accomplish their goal.
Jacobs’ writing reads very similarly to that of Dan Brown and Robin Cook, two other authors I enjoy. For them all, I find it impressive how they can take a well-known subject and add their creative flair to it to make everything flow smoothly and come out with a story that keeps you guessing while you read. By making the topic largely political and military in nature, I felt like I learned new information in every chapter. At times it felt like the fact that these two high school seniors were accomplishing so much maybe seemed a little far-fetched, but then I think of the amazing things that children have invented, and I realize maybe I am just jealous. The two characters seemed so down-to-earth, and the “love story” part of the narrative was just enough to make it believable and cute. I look forward to reading the sequel to Emma and Logan’s adventures.
Emma and Logan are two average high school teenagers. Logan lives with a loving single- mother who works non-stop to make ends meet, and he is brighter than most kids. Emma lives in a well-to-do home with her parents who try to map out her whole future, and who is equally as bright as Logan. Having been childhood friends who fell out of touch over the years, they are brought back together when they are paired in a group history project assigned on “mysterious” monuments placed around the world.
After some initial research on their topic of the Copán temple, it becomes clear to them both that to find the information they need, it will require a bit more effort than a student would think is needed for a school project. Logan and Emma will learn more about themselves, what they are capable of achieving, and about the impact of their actions. With uncertainty weighing so heavily upon their every move, they will have to pull out every trick in the book to succeed in their plan, while looking to the stars to accomplish their goal.
Jacobs’ writing reads very similarly to that of Dan Brown and Robin Cook, two other authors I enjoy. For them all, I find it impressive how they can take a well-known subject and add their creative flair to it to make everything flow smoothly and come out with a story that keeps you guessing while you read. By making the topic largely political and military in nature, I felt like I learned new information in every chapter. At times it felt like the fact that these two high school seniors were accomplishing so much maybe seemed a little far-fetched, but then I think of the amazing things that children have invented, and I realize maybe I am just jealous. The two characters seemed so down-to-earth, and the “love story” part of the narrative was just enough to make it believable and cute. I look forward to reading the sequel to Emma and Logan’s adventures.
May 23, 2020
I bought this about 6 months ago for 99 cents. Not sure if that was the regular price or a special. I think I saw it advertised on FB so decided to take a chance. I guess I didn't waste my 99 cents entirely, but it turned out to not be for me.
It's billed as mysterious artifact adventure type thing but, for me, the problem is that the main characters were a couple of teenagers, maybe 17 or so. As such, the language was very in keeping with that age group though I won't go so far as to say that the writing was adolescent. More simplistic. At about 25% it's been WAY too easy for these two kids to have figured out what some Mayan symbols meant.
Hopping a train from Jersey City to Philadelphia to talk to a website guy -- without any parents or teachers finding out or caring -- was just about believable for a couple of resourceful, smart kids. But when they decided to hop a plane from JFK to Rome for the weekend to follow up another clue, I felt like that was going too far. And it was SO convenient that one of them just happens to have a cousin who lives in Italy and knows someone who has access to the Vatican archives which is where they want to get to. Bottom line, for me, it got silly. Perhaps I'm just too far removed from being a teenager.
It's billed as mysterious artifact adventure type thing but, for me, the problem is that the main characters were a couple of teenagers, maybe 17 or so. As such, the language was very in keeping with that age group though I won't go so far as to say that the writing was adolescent. More simplistic. At about 25% it's been WAY too easy for these two kids to have figured out what some Mayan symbols meant.
Hopping a train from Jersey City to Philadelphia to talk to a website guy -- without any parents or teachers finding out or caring -- was just about believable for a couple of resourceful, smart kids. But when they decided to hop a plane from JFK to Rome for the weekend to follow up another clue, I felt like that was going too far. And it was SO convenient that one of them just happens to have a cousin who lives in Italy and knows someone who has access to the Vatican archives which is where they want to get to. Bottom line, for me, it got silly. Perhaps I'm just too far removed from being a teenager.
March 26, 2022
fun book
Engaging plot. Fun characters. A good read. It was enough for me to buy the next book. Let’s see where this goes.
Engaging plot. Fun characters. A good read. It was enough for me to buy the next book. Let’s see where this goes.
June 14, 2019
The publication press on this book likens it to a YA Dan Brown novel but I admittedly have never read any of his work, so I can't say. As I was reading, it felt like if Sleeping Giants and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull had a teenage child.
It was very different than what I've read lately and I have to say I really enjoyed it. While the sci-fi aspects were a little "Ancient Aliens" for me, I loved all the connecting dots between archaeological mysteries. I think this is a book that can really engage young people who are reluctant when it comes to history.
Definitely adding to my favorites list for this year and intrigued to see where a potential sequel will go.
It was very different than what I've read lately and I have to say I really enjoyed it. While the sci-fi aspects were a little "Ancient Aliens" for me, I loved all the connecting dots between archaeological mysteries. I think this is a book that can really engage young people who are reluctant when it comes to history.
Definitely adding to my favorites list for this year and intrigued to see where a potential sequel will go.
September 13, 2019
I was gifted a free copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
In this novel, branded a sci-fi by the author, but which I think of more as a YA Adventure/Da Vinci Code, two high schoolers–former best friends who sadly grew apart–are tasked with the history project of researching the Secret Chamber of the White-Eyed Star God in the Copan Temple. As they navigate past missing webpages, a trip to Europe, time traveling, the President of the United States, and aliens, Emma and Logan find themselves unraveling the mystery of the stars. What will they find? And will they even survive their discovery?
This is a a novel catering to teenagers and young adults. I found it extremely easy to read, with many unrealistic expectations. Emma and Logan are able to run off to Europe together without their parents knowing in the blink of an eye. They also unraveled the clues to the mystery much too easily, especially considering much more educated people have worked on it for years. Additionally, at one point, one of the main characters gets shot in the leg, and simply brushes it off. What teenager could do that? And then, after receiving medical care at a hospital, the doctor simply asks the patient if they want crutches, and they wave him off and are walking on that same leg within 12 hours of just getting shot. Not to mention that that person is then sprinting, ducking, and dodging around a day later. If the audience can suspend their beliefs for the entire book, that would be ideal. Unfortunately for me, I was unable to reach that point of unreality, and it definitely hindered my reading experience.
There is a bit of romance nestled in the story, but again, it is unbelievable and somewhat shoved in. The two protagonists just happen to be ex best friends, the girl’s “boyfriend” proves to be no obstacle, and without any sort of bonding or tangible moments, the two fall in love. Conveniently. It’s almost too much to swallow. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed both of the characters, but there was no reason for them to have a romantic streak other than to check a box for another overdone trope. Again, this is why I highly suggest that this book be read by YA fans only. Me, I tend to stay away from YA, and I bet you can see why! But really, this book would be much better suited to teenagers.
As for the plot itself, I did find myself enjoying the novel once I got about halfway through and things started picking up. I liked learning about history–or at least feeling like I was learning about history. I have absolutely no idea if the facts from the book were fictionalized to create the mystery, or if they are actually right. Perhaps someone more dedicated than I can fact check! But anyway, the plot was extremely fast-paced, with the kids unraveling one clue after another, taking them across the world. There was practically no waiting to see what would happen next, because it would just happen. I will say that this novel did reignite within me my yearning to travel… As well as my desire to discover things! It was fun. I liked feeling like I was on the verge of a great discovery and that I could do practically anything. I will admit that I was living vicariously through the characters… Just a little bit.
There were also many plot twists, that even though the book is YA (in my not-so-humble opinion) and very easy to read (style-wise), I had no idea what would happen next. The first half of the book gave me absolutely no insight into what would happen in the last half. It took a completely unexpected turn and transformed itself into something entirely different from what I was expecting. For this, I applaud Marc Jacobs, because I find YA books to be very lacking in their surprise factors. The book also becomes much more sci-fi the further into it you read… If that gives you any hints.
I also did like the fact that Jacobs includes pictures for us in the novel. It really helps the readers to visualize exactly what Emma and Logan are dealing with, making us feel like we are figuring out the mystery along with them. Now if only they would share some of their credit with me!
Overall, this novel would be a great fast-paced adventure/mystery-solving story for YA readers. It has a dash of romance and a helping of sci-fi, and it is only the first book in a series! I may not pick up the sequel, but I am not quite the fan of the YA genre as I used to be. If you are, consider this for your next read!
In this novel, branded a sci-fi by the author, but which I think of more as a YA Adventure/Da Vinci Code, two high schoolers–former best friends who sadly grew apart–are tasked with the history project of researching the Secret Chamber of the White-Eyed Star God in the Copan Temple. As they navigate past missing webpages, a trip to Europe, time traveling, the President of the United States, and aliens, Emma and Logan find themselves unraveling the mystery of the stars. What will they find? And will they even survive their discovery?
This is a a novel catering to teenagers and young adults. I found it extremely easy to read, with many unrealistic expectations. Emma and Logan are able to run off to Europe together without their parents knowing in the blink of an eye. They also unraveled the clues to the mystery much too easily, especially considering much more educated people have worked on it for years. Additionally, at one point, one of the main characters gets shot in the leg, and simply brushes it off. What teenager could do that? And then, after receiving medical care at a hospital, the doctor simply asks the patient if they want crutches, and they wave him off and are walking on that same leg within 12 hours of just getting shot. Not to mention that that person is then sprinting, ducking, and dodging around a day later. If the audience can suspend their beliefs for the entire book, that would be ideal. Unfortunately for me, I was unable to reach that point of unreality, and it definitely hindered my reading experience.
There is a bit of romance nestled in the story, but again, it is unbelievable and somewhat shoved in. The two protagonists just happen to be ex best friends, the girl’s “boyfriend” proves to be no obstacle, and without any sort of bonding or tangible moments, the two fall in love. Conveniently. It’s almost too much to swallow. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed both of the characters, but there was no reason for them to have a romantic streak other than to check a box for another overdone trope. Again, this is why I highly suggest that this book be read by YA fans only. Me, I tend to stay away from YA, and I bet you can see why! But really, this book would be much better suited to teenagers.
As for the plot itself, I did find myself enjoying the novel once I got about halfway through and things started picking up. I liked learning about history–or at least feeling like I was learning about history. I have absolutely no idea if the facts from the book were fictionalized to create the mystery, or if they are actually right. Perhaps someone more dedicated than I can fact check! But anyway, the plot was extremely fast-paced, with the kids unraveling one clue after another, taking them across the world. There was practically no waiting to see what would happen next, because it would just happen. I will say that this novel did reignite within me my yearning to travel… As well as my desire to discover things! It was fun. I liked feeling like I was on the verge of a great discovery and that I could do practically anything. I will admit that I was living vicariously through the characters… Just a little bit.
There were also many plot twists, that even though the book is YA (in my not-so-humble opinion) and very easy to read (style-wise), I had no idea what would happen next. The first half of the book gave me absolutely no insight into what would happen in the last half. It took a completely unexpected turn and transformed itself into something entirely different from what I was expecting. For this, I applaud Marc Jacobs, because I find YA books to be very lacking in their surprise factors. The book also becomes much more sci-fi the further into it you read… If that gives you any hints.
I also did like the fact that Jacobs includes pictures for us in the novel. It really helps the readers to visualize exactly what Emma and Logan are dealing with, making us feel like we are figuring out the mystery along with them. Now if only they would share some of their credit with me!
Overall, this novel would be a great fast-paced adventure/mystery-solving story for YA readers. It has a dash of romance and a helping of sci-fi, and it is only the first book in a series! I may not pick up the sequel, but I am not quite the fan of the YA genre as I used to be. If you are, consider this for your next read!
December 19, 2019
High school seniors Logan and Emma are assigned a history project to explore the "how and why" of one of the great archeological mysteries of the world. Other student teams are assigned to Stonehenge, the Great Pyramid of Giza, and the Gate of the Sun in Tiwanaku, but Logan and Emma get the obscure Chamber of the White-Eyed Star God in Copan, Honduras. Immediately drawn in by the sequestering of data about the site, they launch on the adventure of a lifetime that takes them to Italy, The Vatican, Europe, and the Norwegian fjords. Unraveling the cues and threads of Columbus' connections with the Copan temple and its astrological mysteries places them squarely in danger's path, as other agents are also seeking these answers. The teenagers become entangled with U.S. Intelligence agents, international espionage information dealers, and two hapless professors who initially discovered the Star God's chamber. Their efforts to solve the mysteries propel them into the highest levels of U.S. government and military secrets.
This is the best scifi thriller that I've read in a long time. It grabs you and immerses you in the teenager's brilliant detective work to sort out connections and meanings between astrological clues, ancient sites, and historical figures. Some of the happenings may be far-fetched, but the author provides enough science to make them plausible. There are captivating descriptions of the ancient sites and contemporary places visited during the teen's quest, along with background material that adds perspective. Just when things are getting obvious, totally unforeseen twists take place setting up more layers of intrigue. With exciting action and mind-bending theories, the plot engages our inner sleuth and challenges our problem-solving abilities.
The main characters are engaging and well-developed, the bad guys well-portrayed and hard to figure out at times. There is a sweet budding romance between Logan and Emma, though we are left with mysteries at the end, especially regarding Emma. Though given the genre of YA, this complex story will be enjoyed by most adults. A sequel is coming soon, and I'm getting it as soon as it's released.
This is the best scifi thriller that I've read in a long time. It grabs you and immerses you in the teenager's brilliant detective work to sort out connections and meanings between astrological clues, ancient sites, and historical figures. Some of the happenings may be far-fetched, but the author provides enough science to make them plausible. There are captivating descriptions of the ancient sites and contemporary places visited during the teen's quest, along with background material that adds perspective. Just when things are getting obvious, totally unforeseen twists take place setting up more layers of intrigue. With exciting action and mind-bending theories, the plot engages our inner sleuth and challenges our problem-solving abilities.
The main characters are engaging and well-developed, the bad guys well-portrayed and hard to figure out at times. There is a sweet budding romance between Logan and Emma, though we are left with mysteries at the end, especially regarding Emma. Though given the genre of YA, this complex story will be enjoyed by most adults. A sequel is coming soon, and I'm getting it as soon as it's released.
June 18, 2019
3.5/5 Stars
This is a book that I might read again but not necessarily go out and buy a physical copy of.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway for a fair and honest review; I have not been paid and only received the book for free.
This is a book that I breezed through quickly (in about a day, though I had plenty of free time, it took probably five hours to finish it). It was interesting and something that I wanted to know what happened next. It was a book that followed to high school seniors, it was a mystery combined with a coverups and a bit of romance added in. It reminded me a bit of National Treasure, with having to find clues in hidden places. The two main characters are a bit tropey but they are interesting and it makes you hope that they have a good life.
Now for the spoilery-ish parts.
Raves:
- The history teacher! I was a history major in college and I feel like the teacher very much teaches how a professor in college might, wanting the students to find out their interests as well as doing history rather than just learning history.
- Emma having been the one to really learn all and be the star of the book even though it is very focused on Logan.
- History-based information, such as Christopher Columbus, and going to the archives. Jacobs obviously did a bit of research before starting this; especially when it came to some coordinates on the star map.
Issues:
- They were supposed to be 17 and they were flying to a foreign country without their parents permission; that would never happen. A lot of this was a stretch but this is the real issue that I saw, why not just make them 18?
- The romance seemed to move a bit quickly without letting the audience really know their feelings toward each other. I think it could make sense that they had fallen for each other but it was so action packed and we didn't really see the emotions between the two of them build up.
This is a book that I might read again but not necessarily go out and buy a physical copy of.
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway for a fair and honest review; I have not been paid and only received the book for free.
This is a book that I breezed through quickly (in about a day, though I had plenty of free time, it took probably five hours to finish it). It was interesting and something that I wanted to know what happened next. It was a book that followed to high school seniors, it was a mystery combined with a coverups and a bit of romance added in. It reminded me a bit of National Treasure, with having to find clues in hidden places. The two main characters are a bit tropey but they are interesting and it makes you hope that they have a good life.
Now for the spoilery-ish parts.
Raves:
- The history teacher! I was a history major in college and I feel like the teacher very much teaches how a professor in college might, wanting the students to find out their interests as well as doing history rather than just learning history.
- Emma having been the one to really learn all and be the star of the book even though it is very focused on Logan.
- History-based information, such as Christopher Columbus, and going to the archives. Jacobs obviously did a bit of research before starting this; especially when it came to some coordinates on the star map.
Issues:
- They were supposed to be 17 and they were flying to a foreign country without their parents permission; that would never happen. A lot of this was a stretch but this is the real issue that I saw, why not just make them 18?
- The romance seemed to move a bit quickly without letting the audience really know their feelings toward each other. I think it could make sense that they had fallen for each other but it was so action packed and we didn't really see the emotions between the two of them build up.
June 7, 2019
Logan and Emma, high school seniors and childhood best friends, are paired together for a school project to investigate a mysterious, ancient Mayan temple. The temple’s enigmatic numerals prove to be more interesting and lead them down stranger roads than either teen expects. Soon their history assignment becomes more than just a grade: they must interpret a group of coordinates that correspond to a star map of the entire planet - with one coordinate that doesn’t fit...
THE COORDINATE is rich in mystery, and rigorous in describing how two eighteen-year-olds could uncover answers to questions that baffled other investigators. The steps they take to uncover what appears to be a conspiracy hidden away by the government itself are meticulously detailed. At times, the book is so thorough in describing Logan and Emma’s research methods that it loses a sense of pacing. Each breakthrough and reveal, however, is the result of carefully laid plotting, and the answers Logan and Emma find feel rewarding to the reader as well.
Without spoiling anything, the story eventually weaves together a mystery about conspiracy theories, particularly those involving ancient civilizations, with a romance between the two plucky protagonists. While the subject matter treads familiar ground, it’s brightened by the obvious care for detail and the diligently crafted riddles that unwind by the novel’s end. A good book for fans of ancient mysteries and detective novels alike.
THE COORDINATE is rich in mystery, and rigorous in describing how two eighteen-year-olds could uncover answers to questions that baffled other investigators. The steps they take to uncover what appears to be a conspiracy hidden away by the government itself are meticulously detailed. At times, the book is so thorough in describing Logan and Emma’s research methods that it loses a sense of pacing. Each breakthrough and reveal, however, is the result of carefully laid plotting, and the answers Logan and Emma find feel rewarding to the reader as well.
Without spoiling anything, the story eventually weaves together a mystery about conspiracy theories, particularly those involving ancient civilizations, with a romance between the two plucky protagonists. While the subject matter treads familiar ground, it’s brightened by the obvious care for detail and the diligently crafted riddles that unwind by the novel’s end. A good book for fans of ancient mysteries and detective novels alike.
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