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Lost Origins #4
Tomb of the First Priest
The ancient world is not what we thought.
In the city of Prague, freelance treasure hunter Jules has finally located the bangle stolen from his dying mother, an artifact that may unravel a centuries-old secret: the location of an ancient tomb hidden from the world by one of Christ’s disciples.
But when a reclusive, ruthless billionaire beats him to the artifact, Jules joins forces with an institute of unconventional archaeologists who reveal to him clues penned two thousand years ago. Clues that support the claim his mother’s bangle holds properties that science cannot explain.
And Jules appears to be the only person who can activate them - a responsibility that will tempt him toward the dark path he has avoided all his life.
As both parties race to decipher the bangle’s origins, they uncover a trail meant only for the holiest of men, leading to an apostle’s manuscript, the hunt for a tomb alleged to conceal great power, and a breathless, globe-trotting adventure that threatens to destroy them all.
If you enjoy the Dirk Pitt novels by Clive Cussler, James Rollins’ Sigma Force books, or the Ben Hope series by Scott Mariani, you’ll love this new international action adventure thriller.
From Prague to London, Europe to Asia, Tomb of the First Priest launches the Lost Origins series, each book charting a new story exploring gaps in humanity’s long history.
In the city of Prague, freelance treasure hunter Jules has finally located the bangle stolen from his dying mother, an artifact that may unravel a centuries-old secret: the location of an ancient tomb hidden from the world by one of Christ’s disciples.
But when a reclusive, ruthless billionaire beats him to the artifact, Jules joins forces with an institute of unconventional archaeologists who reveal to him clues penned two thousand years ago. Clues that support the claim his mother’s bangle holds properties that science cannot explain.
And Jules appears to be the only person who can activate them - a responsibility that will tempt him toward the dark path he has avoided all his life.
As both parties race to decipher the bangle’s origins, they uncover a trail meant only for the holiest of men, leading to an apostle’s manuscript, the hunt for a tomb alleged to conceal great power, and a breathless, globe-trotting adventure that threatens to destroy them all.
If you enjoy the Dirk Pitt novels by Clive Cussler, James Rollins’ Sigma Force books, or the Ben Hope series by Scott Mariani, you’ll love this new international action adventure thriller.
From Prague to London, Europe to Asia, Tomb of the First Priest launches the Lost Origins series, each book charting a new story exploring gaps in humanity’s long history.
566 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2018
1125 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
A.D. Davies
35 books74 followersA.D. Davies grew up in Leeds, West Yorkshire. In high school his ambition was to be a writer of horror novels, although in adult life he became an avid fan of crime fiction. He also dabbles in action-adventure.
After a long stint in an unsatisfying job, he attended the University of Leeds where he attained a degree in creative writing.
He is well-travelled, his favourite destinations being New Zealand and Vietnam, which have influenced his writing immensely, especially obvious in his Adam Park novel.
For now, however, globe-trotting is taking a back-seat to raising his two children and writing, although he hopes to one day combine all three.
He now resides in Staffordshire, UK, with his wife and two children.
Connect in the following ways:
Twitter: @authoraddavies
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authoraddavies
Website: www.addavies.com (including email list sign-up)
Do say hi.
After a long stint in an unsatisfying job, he attended the University of Leeds where he attained a degree in creative writing.
He is well-travelled, his favourite destinations being New Zealand and Vietnam, which have influenced his writing immensely, especially obvious in his Adam Park novel.
For now, however, globe-trotting is taking a back-seat to raising his two children and writing, although he hopes to one day combine all three.
He now resides in Staffordshire, UK, with his wife and two children.
Connect in the following ways:
Twitter: @authoraddavies
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authoraddavies
Website: www.addavies.com (including email list sign-up)
Do say hi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 13, 2025
One of the worst written books I've ever read, with some of the worst characters I've ever had the misfortune of reading about.
June 22, 2020
This is the first book in the Lost Origins series and starts with a character called Jules (Julian) Sibeko, who at only twenty three, has become accomplished in many thing. He has an eidetic memory for both physical and academic matters, is an expert at Krav Maga, Wing Chun and Aikido, as well as years of parkour training. All of which allows him to remember reams of information and also solve mathematical equations in his head instantly, allowing him to calculate distance, speed, weight and any other factor he needs, to leap from one building to another safely, using gadgets or otherwise. He has trained his body and mind for years and is very particular about what he puts into his body. For example, he has never had a pizza, nor drank a beer. But those are two things he has promised himself, when he recovers the bracelet that was stolen from his mother and the cause of his parent’s deaths, when he was only fourteen.
He is in Prague and very close to finally recovering his other’s beloved bracelet, something she had told him would be his one day and he should always keep it safe. Kind of weird, but she never really got the chance to tell him why. He manages to stop a man and woman who have bought the bracelet and he apprehends them, only for another group to stop him in his tracks and threaten to kill the woman if he doesn’t hand it over. He had finally gotten it into his hands again after a long nine years of obsessively tracking it down, only to lose it, as he can’t let someone else be killed for it. It seems there are two separate groups in action tracking items such as his mother’s bracelet, which he is informed is actually called the Arcadia bangle and is over 50,000 years old, which seems impossible. One group is called LORI (Lost Origins Recovery Institute) and the other is a wealthy billionaire called Valerio Conchin, who has links to crime and the mob.
The members of LORI are Toby Smith the boss; Harpal Singh, Charlie the tech specialist; Dan Vincent an ex-military and security specialist; and Bridget Carson the language expert, whose parents are multi-millionaires and rent them the building the use for the Institute base, for a nominal fee. They have worked together as treasure hunters and more importantly to recover lost treasures and relics and return them to their correct owners. They sometimes have to break the law to obtain items long ago appropriated by one government and now ending up back in the country of its origins, where they belong. Valerio is after relics for his own purposes and for power. He will do whatever he needs to find the ultimate relic that may heal him from the disease that is killing him. He has more information about the bangle and its actual powers and knows it is one of a pair. He doesn’t normally kill people who are in his way, but as he gets closer to his goal and more desperate, he starts to let his men kill people indiscriminately.
The journey takes then from Prague to Brittany in France, to Windsor Castle in England, to Sicily, the outer reaches of Mongolia and the even to areas of India and Pakistan. Jules is invited to join LORI, but he has spent so long working alone and following his own path, he doesn’t see what he really needs with the group. They have the financial backing that he is lacking and he finally relents and joins them for as long as they might be useful to him. Bridget notices that the bangle reacts to Jules, lighting up and vibrating, which it doesn’t seem to do for anyone else. He is vital to both parties and will also get involved with Toby’s replacement at Windsor and representative for the British government. It ends up as a tangled web, as each group tries to outdo the other and the trail leads to one of the holiest and remote sites they have ever seen. All clues found from St Thomas’ own handwritten journals and records from that era, that talk of a tomb of the first priest which is alleged to have immense power and the ability to heal all ails.
A stomping good and exciting race around the world as each group tries to get to the treasure first. Jules is key to any obtaining the power held within the site, but what they find will surpass all of their wildest dreams and expectations. Jules will be tempted by the power only he can wield and only he can turn away from the dark path he is being tempted upon. Bridget is a great character, able to see something in Jules, that many of her team cannot and to trust in his actions. Jules may not have the trust of the rest of LORI, but he is often proven right and Valerio is a hard man to turn down. I read this book in one day, even though it is nearly six hundred pages long, as I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to see what happened at each stumbling block the characters faced, what happened when Valerio got ahead of them, basically everything to do with their hunt for the holy site and the bangle that Jules had obsessed over for so long!
You definitely won’t get bored by any of this book, as there are varied locations, wonderful stunts and danger all around, to keep you entertained. Each character is important to the whole storyline and even Valerio and Horse, his bodyguard/right hand man, are characters you stick with, just to see how evil they may become and what they will do to others. Can they or will they ever actually be defeated, especially by an individual like Jules who follows his martial arts training in all aspects of his life and will not purposely harm another more than necessary and would never kill someone and a team like LORI, who don’t like to kill unless absolutely necessary, but will do what they need to survive. They are both often in situations where they do not have weapons, up against a foe who is armed to the teeth and getting more erratic as he becomes closer to his goal and his body continues to fail. A cracking beginning for this series and I can’t wait to read the next books in the series as soon as I can. Definitely a great book for any who like thrilling action adventure reads and even with a bit of archaeology and ancient history thrown in. I’m so glad I spotted this book and managed to get an ARC copy of it from BookSprout and I would recommend it to all who love a fantastic read. It may take you a bit of time to get through, but every page is worth the time it takes! I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
He is in Prague and very close to finally recovering his other’s beloved bracelet, something she had told him would be his one day and he should always keep it safe. Kind of weird, but she never really got the chance to tell him why. He manages to stop a man and woman who have bought the bracelet and he apprehends them, only for another group to stop him in his tracks and threaten to kill the woman if he doesn’t hand it over. He had finally gotten it into his hands again after a long nine years of obsessively tracking it down, only to lose it, as he can’t let someone else be killed for it. It seems there are two separate groups in action tracking items such as his mother’s bracelet, which he is informed is actually called the Arcadia bangle and is over 50,000 years old, which seems impossible. One group is called LORI (Lost Origins Recovery Institute) and the other is a wealthy billionaire called Valerio Conchin, who has links to crime and the mob.
The members of LORI are Toby Smith the boss; Harpal Singh, Charlie the tech specialist; Dan Vincent an ex-military and security specialist; and Bridget Carson the language expert, whose parents are multi-millionaires and rent them the building the use for the Institute base, for a nominal fee. They have worked together as treasure hunters and more importantly to recover lost treasures and relics and return them to their correct owners. They sometimes have to break the law to obtain items long ago appropriated by one government and now ending up back in the country of its origins, where they belong. Valerio is after relics for his own purposes and for power. He will do whatever he needs to find the ultimate relic that may heal him from the disease that is killing him. He has more information about the bangle and its actual powers and knows it is one of a pair. He doesn’t normally kill people who are in his way, but as he gets closer to his goal and more desperate, he starts to let his men kill people indiscriminately.
The journey takes then from Prague to Brittany in France, to Windsor Castle in England, to Sicily, the outer reaches of Mongolia and the even to areas of India and Pakistan. Jules is invited to join LORI, but he has spent so long working alone and following his own path, he doesn’t see what he really needs with the group. They have the financial backing that he is lacking and he finally relents and joins them for as long as they might be useful to him. Bridget notices that the bangle reacts to Jules, lighting up and vibrating, which it doesn’t seem to do for anyone else. He is vital to both parties and will also get involved with Toby’s replacement at Windsor and representative for the British government. It ends up as a tangled web, as each group tries to outdo the other and the trail leads to one of the holiest and remote sites they have ever seen. All clues found from St Thomas’ own handwritten journals and records from that era, that talk of a tomb of the first priest which is alleged to have immense power and the ability to heal all ails.
A stomping good and exciting race around the world as each group tries to get to the treasure first. Jules is key to any obtaining the power held within the site, but what they find will surpass all of their wildest dreams and expectations. Jules will be tempted by the power only he can wield and only he can turn away from the dark path he is being tempted upon. Bridget is a great character, able to see something in Jules, that many of her team cannot and to trust in his actions. Jules may not have the trust of the rest of LORI, but he is often proven right and Valerio is a hard man to turn down. I read this book in one day, even though it is nearly six hundred pages long, as I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to see what happened at each stumbling block the characters faced, what happened when Valerio got ahead of them, basically everything to do with their hunt for the holy site and the bangle that Jules had obsessed over for so long!
You definitely won’t get bored by any of this book, as there are varied locations, wonderful stunts and danger all around, to keep you entertained. Each character is important to the whole storyline and even Valerio and Horse, his bodyguard/right hand man, are characters you stick with, just to see how evil they may become and what they will do to others. Can they or will they ever actually be defeated, especially by an individual like Jules who follows his martial arts training in all aspects of his life and will not purposely harm another more than necessary and would never kill someone and a team like LORI, who don’t like to kill unless absolutely necessary, but will do what they need to survive. They are both often in situations where they do not have weapons, up against a foe who is armed to the teeth and getting more erratic as he becomes closer to his goal and his body continues to fail. A cracking beginning for this series and I can’t wait to read the next books in the series as soon as I can. Definitely a great book for any who like thrilling action adventure reads and even with a bit of archaeology and ancient history thrown in. I’m so glad I spotted this book and managed to get an ARC copy of it from BookSprout and I would recommend it to all who love a fantastic read. It may take you a bit of time to get through, but every page is worth the time it takes! I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
July 31, 2020
Blending real-world history and mythology with fiction, this well-researched, suspense filled treasure hunting novel left me awestruck!
Action. Adventure. Treasure hunting. All protagonist Jules desires is the bangle belonging to his mother, now deceased, returned into his possession. Blending history, religion, culture, mythology and conspiracy theory, traversing an array of countries, Jules’s quest for the missing family heirloom ends up with an entanglement in a much bigger quest. A quest to uncover the Tomb of the First Priest. The location of which others would kill for! During this quest, he uncovers that all is not as it seems and perhaps his mother held the bangle dear for a greater reason than simply sentimentality. Possibly for reasons that merge into the mystical and even supernatural! Could this really be true? Perfect for fans of Dan Brown and Matthew Reilly, this suspense filled first instalment in the ‘Lost Origins’ series definitely leaves you hungry for more.
Davies has created a well-rounded and exceptionally fleshed out narrative in ‘Tomb of the First Priest’, which has been thoroughly researched and the plot thoughtfully planned out. The author left me awestruck at how beautifully fiction was blended into our reality and our history, embellished with thought-provoking real-world theory and commentary, such as the issues relating to repatriation of artifacts claimed through unjust means. I loved how the reader was transported across the globe and through time, exploring alongside the adventurers. The experts felt as if they were, indeed, knowledgeable in their given field. Conversations between characters felt natural and plausible, in no way forced by the plot. The protagonist, Jules, had exceptional character growth throughout the novel and I enjoyed the addition of the character’s invisible disability. (Although, I am not clear whether this is “own voices”.) I also appreciated how the villains were fully fledged, with clear motives and reasoning. Even though there was a clear theme of good versus evil, the characters were true to life, in the sense that they all had flaws and hindrances, alongside their strengths. Although slow to get going, once I hit the midway point, it was impossible to put down. The way Davies plays with anticipation and suspense, utilising chapter length and alternating perspectives to keep you on the edge of your seat, was quite exceptional. Also, mastering the use of cliff-hangers at the end of chapters!
My primary critique would be that I wish there had been more plot twists and exhilarating obstacles in the first half. I also feel that the novel lacked a (truly) strong, independent and fierce female character. The two female characters were portrayed as a motherly figure and a damsel in distress, both largely reliant on the male characters. Although they did progress and became involved within the final action sequence, I do not think the novel passed the Bechdel Test. There were also a couple of phrases that were a little morally questionable. I did not agree with the use of homophobic jibes and how racism was implemented as a plot device. Perhaps, a tad insensitive? That said, it is clear that the author does not support these ideas and intended to highlight these terrible, yet very real, realities for some people. Finally, the way Davies played with anticipation was enough to keep the reader engaged, despite the novel being, in my opinion, highly predictable. Thus, a forgivable attribute, on this occasion.
Combining everything that action-adventure fanatics love and more, I highly recommend this book. I will definitely be picking up more from this author and look forward to seeing where Davies transports us next!
Trigger Warnings: Violence, Threat of Violence, Murder, Threat of Murder, Racism, Implied Racism, Homophobia, Implied Homophobia, Political Corruption, Controversial Themes & Religious Ideas
Original review posted here: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/tom...
Action. Adventure. Treasure hunting. All protagonist Jules desires is the bangle belonging to his mother, now deceased, returned into his possession. Blending history, religion, culture, mythology and conspiracy theory, traversing an array of countries, Jules’s quest for the missing family heirloom ends up with an entanglement in a much bigger quest. A quest to uncover the Tomb of the First Priest. The location of which others would kill for! During this quest, he uncovers that all is not as it seems and perhaps his mother held the bangle dear for a greater reason than simply sentimentality. Possibly for reasons that merge into the mystical and even supernatural! Could this really be true? Perfect for fans of Dan Brown and Matthew Reilly, this suspense filled first instalment in the ‘Lost Origins’ series definitely leaves you hungry for more.
Davies has created a well-rounded and exceptionally fleshed out narrative in ‘Tomb of the First Priest’, which has been thoroughly researched and the plot thoughtfully planned out. The author left me awestruck at how beautifully fiction was blended into our reality and our history, embellished with thought-provoking real-world theory and commentary, such as the issues relating to repatriation of artifacts claimed through unjust means. I loved how the reader was transported across the globe and through time, exploring alongside the adventurers. The experts felt as if they were, indeed, knowledgeable in their given field. Conversations between characters felt natural and plausible, in no way forced by the plot. The protagonist, Jules, had exceptional character growth throughout the novel and I enjoyed the addition of the character’s invisible disability. (Although, I am not clear whether this is “own voices”.) I also appreciated how the villains were fully fledged, with clear motives and reasoning. Even though there was a clear theme of good versus evil, the characters were true to life, in the sense that they all had flaws and hindrances, alongside their strengths. Although slow to get going, once I hit the midway point, it was impossible to put down. The way Davies plays with anticipation and suspense, utilising chapter length and alternating perspectives to keep you on the edge of your seat, was quite exceptional. Also, mastering the use of cliff-hangers at the end of chapters!
My primary critique would be that I wish there had been more plot twists and exhilarating obstacles in the first half. I also feel that the novel lacked a (truly) strong, independent and fierce female character. The two female characters were portrayed as a motherly figure and a damsel in distress, both largely reliant on the male characters. Although they did progress and became involved within the final action sequence, I do not think the novel passed the Bechdel Test. There were also a couple of phrases that were a little morally questionable. I did not agree with the use of homophobic jibes and how racism was implemented as a plot device. Perhaps, a tad insensitive? That said, it is clear that the author does not support these ideas and intended to highlight these terrible, yet very real, realities for some people. Finally, the way Davies played with anticipation was enough to keep the reader engaged, despite the novel being, in my opinion, highly predictable. Thus, a forgivable attribute, on this occasion.
Combining everything that action-adventure fanatics love and more, I highly recommend this book. I will definitely be picking up more from this author and look forward to seeing where Davies transports us next!
Trigger Warnings: Violence, Threat of Violence, Murder, Threat of Murder, Racism, Implied Racism, Homophobia, Implied Homophobia, Political Corruption, Controversial Themes & Religious Ideas
Original review posted here: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/tom...
May 12, 2024
Lots of twists and turns. A bit like a Robert Langdon novel but with a lot more action!
July 4, 2020
I am not a friend of tight places; this book seems to veer from close calls to miraculous escapes as it follows Jules, the main character. I liked this arrogant, self assured young man for his obsessive pursuit of his Mom's "bracelet" taken from her murder scene. Jules has a need for it to continue his touch with love, and has trained himself to be perfectly able to recover whatever he seeks. Introduced to Tony, Charlie, Harpal, Dave, and Bridgett along the way, he forms a tenuous union of friendship, partnership with their rescue archaeology team. Characters with murky pasts, and very dark webs of connections also seek the rare, somewhat identical twin bracelet. Their adventure takes them through the search for Apostles, Thomas and Phillip, travels, a lost manuscript, burial site and a missing bracelet similar to the green one Jules is hunting. Very good environmental descriptions that allow the reader to be submersed in the story as an unseen observer. Characters are well formed and revealing more as they progress through sticky situations and changing liaisons with outsiders. This was the first of three books, so far, and I am certainly eager to read the rest. Historical fiction with some authentic names and sites.
November 21, 2021
Better Than Indiana Jones
If you combined all the story lines of ALL of the Indiana Jones movies together in one book, you still wouldn’t have a book as good as “Tomb of the First Priest”. This Lost Origins novel about the hunt for the tomb of Saint Thomas definitely combines all the skills of Clive Cussler, Steve Berry, and Dan Brown. It has a most intriguing cast of characters joined by Jules, a young man in a quest to recover a bracelet stolen from his dying mother that was to be his inheritance. Jules joins the LORI members to find the list tomb of St. Thomas. Yes, the doubting one. But alas, someone else is on the hunt also— someone who only wants to find the power that the secrets in the tomb will uncover. Who will find the tomb first? Will good conquer evil or Vice verse? I guarantee you will be riveted throughout this roller coaster ride of a read.
If you combined all the story lines of ALL of the Indiana Jones movies together in one book, you still wouldn’t have a book as good as “Tomb of the First Priest”. This Lost Origins novel about the hunt for the tomb of Saint Thomas definitely combines all the skills of Clive Cussler, Steve Berry, and Dan Brown. It has a most intriguing cast of characters joined by Jules, a young man in a quest to recover a bracelet stolen from his dying mother that was to be his inheritance. Jules joins the LORI members to find the list tomb of St. Thomas. Yes, the doubting one. But alas, someone else is on the hunt also— someone who only wants to find the power that the secrets in the tomb will uncover. Who will find the tomb first? Will good conquer evil or Vice verse? I guarantee you will be riveted throughout this roller coaster ride of a read.
March 17, 2024
Conceptually I love this book. Dan Brown meets Mission Impossible. A few well written characters, and intriguing and informative plot. All ingredients for success. Heck, for a Kindle Unlimited title it’s actually well edited and overall well written. But when I glanced down to see how close I was to the end when it felt like it was about time for the climax….I was less than 20%!
Thus, my frustration is simply around pace and lack of cropping unnecessary or minor transitional scenes. There were, literally, multiple chapters that could have been a few pages and really kept this story moving and made it a page-turner.
I liked the concept and themes enough that I’ve downloaded the sequel, and have crossed my fingers that it is a bit more tightly paced.
Thus, my frustration is simply around pace and lack of cropping unnecessary or minor transitional scenes. There were, literally, multiple chapters that could have been a few pages and really kept this story moving and made it a page-turner.
I liked the concept and themes enough that I’ve downloaded the sequel, and have crossed my fingers that it is a bit more tightly paced.
March 28, 2024
Tried this as a lark. It really wasn't as good as I hoped it would be. The archeology/theology intrigued me, but the writing was quirky and I had a fairly hard time following some of the descriptions of the various exotic sites. The characters were a strange assortment including a maniacal, evil genius and his henchmen versus the "good guys" who seemed to get into trouble at every turn, and an outside interloper who easily travels along rooftops at night in search of a mysterious bracelet (once owned by Mother Mary) and left to his mother, who died trying to safeguard it. Apparently, this is the first in a series of "Lost Origin" books, but I will probably stop the saga after this one. I gave it a 3-star rating because I endured to the end to find out what in the world would happen.
January 10, 2023
The readers of Tomb of the First Priest
History, fiction, ancient books, and action adventure. What's not to like? The story may be somewhat slow as the author sets the stage for a fast moving novel. But do not put down the book. It quickly races around ancient history, religions, and the most interesting characters. The good guys are everything you want in a good guy, and the bad guys are engaging and amazing.
The premise of the book is, how much don't we know about pre-history. How did human intelligence begin and when? The protagonists are questioning all this, plus.
An amazing read.
History, fiction, ancient books, and action adventure. What's not to like? The story may be somewhat slow as the author sets the stage for a fast moving novel. But do not put down the book. It quickly races around ancient history, religions, and the most interesting characters. The good guys are everything you want in a good guy, and the bad guys are engaging and amazing.
The premise of the book is, how much don't we know about pre-history. How did human intelligence begin and when? The protagonists are questioning all this, plus.
An amazing read.
July 26, 2022
Very Interesting with an Open Ending
Thoroughly enjoyed jet setting with Jules and LORI and getting into some really close calls. It was fun watching Jules or trying to watch Jules' mind work. It was wonderful to see Bridget try to pull the real Jules out and not give up on him. It was wonderful to see LORI always try to help even when they were fed up with him. Love the museums and sites real or fiction. Lots of excitement and close calls. Really a great fun clean read. Great job. Can't wait to start Book 2. Thank you.
Thoroughly enjoyed jet setting with Jules and LORI and getting into some really close calls. It was fun watching Jules or trying to watch Jules' mind work. It was wonderful to see Bridget try to pull the real Jules out and not give up on him. It was wonderful to see LORI always try to help even when they were fed up with him. Love the museums and sites real or fiction. Lots of excitement and close calls. Really a great fun clean read. Great job. Can't wait to start Book 2. Thank you.
February 4, 2024
It's like Mission Impossible meets Tomb Raider. I got lost about two thirds of the way through but persevered and picked the thread back up and it was worth the effort. Jules is like a superhero with his skills and the LORI group allies with him well to achieve their aim which is a bit dubious but makes them a living, "repatriating artefacts" is the premise but who deserves them most ? Is it their original owners, how did Jules mother come by the bangle ? Anyway it's definitely not Valerio but he is the proverbial bad penny.
December 29, 2024
Eternal Society
Jules Sebeko wanted only 1 thing for the longest time, his mum's green bracelet that was stolen when his parents were killed in a robbery.
Jules went to great lengths to prepare for that 1 chance to get it back, but all is not as it seems. This is the start of something that could not have been predicted. I would Love to Highly Recommend the works of A. D. Davies. Having been taken on a fabulous journey l just know others will enjoy it immensely also.
Enjoy 👍🌹😁🇦🇺💜
Jules Sebeko wanted only 1 thing for the longest time, his mum's green bracelet that was stolen when his parents were killed in a robbery.
Jules went to great lengths to prepare for that 1 chance to get it back, but all is not as it seems. This is the start of something that could not have been predicted. I would Love to Highly Recommend the works of A. D. Davies. Having been taken on a fabulous journey l just know others will enjoy it immensely also.
Enjoy 👍🌹😁🇦🇺💜
April 19, 2021
Excellent Read .
In the genre of Indiana Jones, but in book form as opposed to film, this was vastly entertaining. As an archeological thriller it ranks amount the best. As with all good stories, the characters are well drawn and have a depth, the action follows through different environments providing an international flavor for those who love to explore foreign shores and the archeology interest keeps the pages turning.
Looking forward to the rest in the series.
In the genre of Indiana Jones, but in book form as opposed to film, this was vastly entertaining. As an archeological thriller it ranks amount the best. As with all good stories, the characters are well drawn and have a depth, the action follows through different environments providing an international flavor for those who love to explore foreign shores and the archeology interest keeps the pages turning.
Looking forward to the rest in the series.
November 30, 2022
Not What I Was Expecting!
When I chose this book, I chose it because it sounded interesting yet I wasn't 100% sold that it would be a great, or even a good read. I was wrong! It was a fantastic read!
The story was rich in detail and kept me so interested and invested in the book that I could not put it down! I am an avid reader and can't say this about many books. I will definitely read more from this series!
When I chose this book, I chose it because it sounded interesting yet I wasn't 100% sold that it would be a great, or even a good read. I was wrong! It was a fantastic read!
The story was rich in detail and kept me so interested and invested in the book that I could not put it down! I am an avid reader and can't say this about many books. I will definitely read more from this series!
June 7, 2023
This was too long and repeated the same thing over and over.
The other books I have read of A.D. Davies kept my attention and were almost riveting because of the content. This book, took forever to get through and I might read a chapter or two and then go onto the next book.
I still don't know who the First Priest was but I did know who Jules was.
Very disappointed in this one. Am going to try the next book in the series and see if it is any better
The other books I have read of A.D. Davies kept my attention and were almost riveting because of the content. This book, took forever to get through and I might read a chapter or two and then go onto the next book.
I still don't know who the First Priest was but I did know who Jules was.
Very disappointed in this one. Am going to try the next book in the series and see if it is any better
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2023
Seems like National Treasure
Only a few grammatical errors. The protaganist is basically a modern day Ninja. It also seems the author took a scene from National Treasure with the fire under the mountain. It would also be unrealistic for the antagonist to hire mercs that would agree on killing all the people they did. Davies does a good job on the story overall, it lacks a certain realism.
Only a few grammatical errors. The protaganist is basically a modern day Ninja. It also seems the author took a scene from National Treasure with the fire under the mountain. It would also be unrealistic for the antagonist to hire mercs that would agree on killing all the people they did. Davies does a good job on the story overall, it lacks a certain realism.
November 22, 2023
For the sake of knowledge!
This is a well written book with wonderful characters who will capture your heart as they travel through dangerous territory in their quests in the name of archaeology. You will walk, run, climb, and jump with them as they seek new archaeological finds. Their search is more for the sake of knowledge than for the fame associated with finds on the scale of their adventures. This promises to be an amazing series!
This is a well written book with wonderful characters who will capture your heart as they travel through dangerous territory in their quests in the name of archaeology. You will walk, run, climb, and jump with them as they seek new archaeological finds. Their search is more for the sake of knowledge than for the fame associated with finds on the scale of their adventures. This promises to be an amazing series!
March 23, 2024
I finished this, but I'm not sure why. So cliche it hurt. Good guy who could do no wrong, bad guy who could do no good. Pre-Christian conspiracies that of course find a way to involve the Vatican. It was like an episode of The Librarians (which I love) but really really long and without the lovable characters that you are rooting for, and it had even more unlikely, unbelievable, silly scenarios.
July 29, 2020
This book is a good read -- full of interesting details in both the story and the descriptions. It's also a long read, but the writing is superior, so I forgave the length and chalked up my quibble to personal preference.
Received my copy as a reward in the now defunct Kindle Scout program. Back then it was called "Tomb of Aradia."
Received my copy as a reward in the now defunct Kindle Scout program. Back then it was called "Tomb of Aradia."
February 14, 2021
Enjoyable
Enjoyable story. Characters were a little over the top in their skill sets but that was necessary to the story lines. Story flow was good but dragged a little in parts. Ending was adequate but left the door open for a continuation. I don't know if the next book will pick it up or stand alone. Looking forward to reading it.
Enjoyable story. Characters were a little over the top in their skill sets but that was necessary to the story lines. Story flow was good but dragged a little in parts. Ending was adequate but left the door open for a continuation. I don't know if the next book will pick it up or stand alone. Looking forward to reading it.
February 1, 2023
Interesting Adventure
Amazing story with an eclectic cast of characters. The author takes you on an intriguing adventure. A little too much backstory and history slowed the story for me in parts, but it still held my attention until the end. Can’t wait to read the next in the series.
Amazing story with an eclectic cast of characters. The author takes you on an intriguing adventure. A little too much backstory and history slowed the story for me in parts, but it still held my attention until the end. Can’t wait to read the next in the series.
February 23, 2023
Excellent read
Tomb was an exciting hop around the world, and through history. The characters grew on you and you became invested in their outcome. I love having to look things up...and I did. I would have given this 5 stars but there were several typos I couldn't ignore. However, I recommend this author and will read him again.
Tomb was an exciting hop around the world, and through history. The characters grew on you and you became invested in their outcome. I love having to look things up...and I did. I would have given this 5 stars but there were several typos I couldn't ignore. However, I recommend this author and will read him again.
April 15, 2023
An exciting read
A group of people who search find and return them there is Jules with only one thing on his mind and will not stop until he finds it, danger lurks on every corner or bend for all of them and of course there’s the super villain. The thrills are all the way through from page 1 to the end I recommend this book
A group of people who search find and return them there is Jules with only one thing on his mind and will not stop until he finds it, danger lurks on every corner or bend for all of them and of course there’s the super villain. The thrills are all the way through from page 1 to the end I recommend this book
July 21, 2024
Great Story
Loved the story, the characters and the pace. The only thing I found excessively annoying was the profuse use of the word “ain’t” and poor grammar by Jules making him into an unwelcome stereotype. Other than that, I loved the book and am looking forward to book 2. Hopefully Jules will have matured in his language.
Loved the story, the characters and the pace. The only thing I found excessively annoying was the profuse use of the word “ain’t” and poor grammar by Jules making him into an unwelcome stereotype. Other than that, I loved the book and am looking forward to book 2. Hopefully Jules will have matured in his language.
December 16, 2024
Think Indiana Jones, but with endless repeats of the same scenes. A decent story that would have made a good fast moving action novel at about 300 pages, unfortunately we go round and round to make it longer. Given it’s the first in a series I’m not sure what we were trying to achieve as it doesn’t make you rush for the next one.
June 19, 2025
Interesting Storyline Makes a Good Read
I found this story interesting. It took me a while slogging through the opening chapters, but once the action finally picked up -- away we went on a really interesting tale. Characters were unique and well-developed. There were a few times that the action teetered on "aww, c'mon" levels, but overall,this was a fun read.
I found this story interesting. It took me a while slogging through the opening chapters, but once the action finally picked up -- away we went on a really interesting tale. Characters were unique and well-developed. There were a few times that the action teetered on "aww, c'mon" levels, but overall,this was a fun read.
June 17, 2020
Action, adventure and archeology combine with thieves filled with greed and others motivated by their beliefs and faith
Globe trotting, history tweaking adventure
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Globe trotting, history tweaking adventure
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2021
Oh Boy
Read this in one sitting, it’s like “Raiders of the lost Ark meets National Treasure meets Batman all in one. Loved the plot twists decent action and loveable characters what more can you ask for. Great read.
Read this in one sitting, it’s like “Raiders of the lost Ark meets National Treasure meets Batman all in one. Loved the plot twists decent action and loveable characters what more can you ask for. Great read.
January 31, 2021
Fantasy archeology?
Fast moving with mix of Details and abrupt dialog , at least from one character. Good character development. Although there were actions dialog for some that were quite juvenile for adults. Otherwise, enjoyed.
Fast moving with mix of Details and abrupt dialog , at least from one character. Good character development. Although there were actions dialog for some that were quite juvenile for adults. Otherwise, enjoyed.
February 4, 2021
Tomb of the First Priest
If you are a fan of stories that weave some history into the plot then you will enjoy this tome. The pace of the story is fast and the characters very engaging. I look forward to the next novel in the series.
If you are a fan of stories that weave some history into the plot then you will enjoy this tome. The pace of the story is fast and the characters very engaging. I look forward to the next novel in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews