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The Magdalene Chronicles #2
The Magdalene Reliquary
A curious priest uncovers a mystifying secret...
One that leads to a long-buried relic some will do anything to possess.
Can he outwit adversaries who will stop at nothing to keep him from revealing an object that challenges history as we know it?
Father Michael Dominic discovers a strangely constructed 13th-century puzzle hidden deep within the Vatican Secret Archives. With the help of his brilliant colleague, investigative journalist Hana Sinclair, solving the puzzle exposes a cleverly concealed map that marks the hiding place of a sacred artifact—one with shocking implications.
From Rome to France and Switzerland, his search for the object finds Dominic pitted against deadly agents and a ruthless Russian oligarch. Desperate, he must choose between trusting an unlikely collection of possible allies—or certain death. As his enemies close in, can he survive and bring this staggering new secret to light, or will his pursuers bury it beside him in the cold, dark earth of a long-forgotten cave?
Sure to please fans of the bestselling novel The Magdalene Deception, this second entry in The Magdalene Chronicles series is impossible to put down. Packed with historical events and non-stop action, readers will be burning through pages late into the night.
One that leads to a long-buried relic some will do anything to possess.
Can he outwit adversaries who will stop at nothing to keep him from revealing an object that challenges history as we know it?
Father Michael Dominic discovers a strangely constructed 13th-century puzzle hidden deep within the Vatican Secret Archives. With the help of his brilliant colleague, investigative journalist Hana Sinclair, solving the puzzle exposes a cleverly concealed map that marks the hiding place of a sacred artifact—one with shocking implications.
From Rome to France and Switzerland, his search for the object finds Dominic pitted against deadly agents and a ruthless Russian oligarch. Desperate, he must choose between trusting an unlikely collection of possible allies—or certain death. As his enemies close in, can he survive and bring this staggering new secret to light, or will his pursuers bury it beside him in the cold, dark earth of a long-forgotten cave?
Sure to please fans of the bestselling novel The Magdalene Deception, this second entry in The Magdalene Chronicles series is impossible to put down. Packed with historical events and non-stop action, readers will be burning through pages late into the night.
386 pages, Paperback
Published December 1, 2020
1074 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Gary McAvoy
38 books479 followersGary McAvoy is an American novelist known for internationally bestselling thrillers that blend historical intrigue, religious scholarship, and modern suspense. A lifelong researcher of rare manuscripts and Church history, he draws on extensive archival study to craft narratives rooted in authentic detail. His work includes the Vatican Secret Archive Thrillers, the Magdalene Chronicles, and the Vatican Archaeology Thrillers. Before turning to fiction, McAvoy built a distinguished career as an entrepreneur, technology consultant, and collector of historical documents. He now writes full time from the Pacific Northwest, where he continues to explore the shadowed crossroads of faith, power, and history.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
November 27, 2020
I was delighted to receive an advanced copy of this book from the author, Gary McAvoy. Having read and enjoyed the first one in the series, 'The Magdalene Deception', I was enthusiastic to read the further adventures of Father Michael Dominic, his colleague Hana Sinclair an investigative journalist, and his friends in the Swiss Guards. I have learned that the colourful Swiss Guards are well trained in all aspects of warfare, and not merely a tourist attraction in their dazzling uniforms.
The book is packed with action, adventure, and danger. It was brilliantly written with a vivid sense of place both in and around the Vatican and caves in France. Its characters are either sympathetic and heroic and the villains ruthless and treacherous. The tension and suspense increased throughout. To say this was a pulse-pounding, heart-racing tale is no exaggeration. As the plot reached a crescendo, for the first time I kept getting worrisome alarms on my Apple watch that my heartbeat was too high.
I admired the author's research and frequently paused my reading to search for facts, speculations
and for centuries-old legends documented in the 1200s and earlier. I referred to Google and Wikipedia often. The author meshed all this research into a believable and intriguing plot. The story involves underhanded schemes for more power within the Vatican, threats and blackmail, a jealous corrupt Cardinal, an ancient map in the form of an intricate puzzle discovered in the Secret Archives of the Vatican, and the search for a fabled reliquary belonging to Mary Magdalene.
Also, after the relic is a corrupt Russian billionaire desperate to possess the treasure and assisted by a member of a far-right Croatian group now on the ascendance in Europe. With the aid of a disparate group of thugs, the plan is to dynamite the French cave where Father Michael and a couple of Swiss Guards are searching. The young Croatian man is intent on revenge because Father Michael killed his father. Will they survive the chaotic explosion in the cave?
Why were two objects of no value stolen from Father Michael Dominic's room? How did their adventure come to include such unlikely allies as a wealthy Swiss publisher, the Italian secret service, and two Gypsy thieves? I thought scientific research equalled the historical background in the story. DNA retrieval and processing were well explained to the reader, as well as how ancient objects are Carbon dated, and GPS tracking of objects by Apple technology. I am now waiting impatiently for the next book in the Magdalene trilogy.
If the object is found and doesn't end up on the black market, it would present a conflict in conscience for the Church and people of religious beliefs throughout the world. It would change what we have been taught in Biblical history. Highly recommended! Thank you Gary McAvoy for this exciting, well-written book.
1 like
The book is packed with action, adventure, and danger. It was brilliantly written with a vivid sense of place both in and around the Vatican and caves in France. Its characters are either sympathetic and heroic and the villains ruthless and treacherous. The tension and suspense increased throughout. To say this was a pulse-pounding, heart-racing tale is no exaggeration. As the plot reached a crescendo, for the first time I kept getting worrisome alarms on my Apple watch that my heartbeat was too high.
I admired the author's research and frequently paused my reading to search for facts, speculations
and for centuries-old legends documented in the 1200s and earlier. I referred to Google and Wikipedia often. The author meshed all this research into a believable and intriguing plot. The story involves underhanded schemes for more power within the Vatican, threats and blackmail, a jealous corrupt Cardinal, an ancient map in the form of an intricate puzzle discovered in the Secret Archives of the Vatican, and the search for a fabled reliquary belonging to Mary Magdalene.
Also, after the relic is a corrupt Russian billionaire desperate to possess the treasure and assisted by a member of a far-right Croatian group now on the ascendance in Europe. With the aid of a disparate group of thugs, the plan is to dynamite the French cave where Father Michael and a couple of Swiss Guards are searching. The young Croatian man is intent on revenge because Father Michael killed his father. Will they survive the chaotic explosion in the cave?
Why were two objects of no value stolen from Father Michael Dominic's room? How did their adventure come to include such unlikely allies as a wealthy Swiss publisher, the Italian secret service, and two Gypsy thieves? I thought scientific research equalled the historical background in the story. DNA retrieval and processing were well explained to the reader, as well as how ancient objects are Carbon dated, and GPS tracking of objects by Apple technology. I am now waiting impatiently for the next book in the Magdalene trilogy.
If the object is found and doesn't end up on the black market, it would present a conflict in conscience for the Church and people of religious beliefs throughout the world. It would change what we have been taught in Biblical history. Highly recommended! Thank you Gary McAvoy for this exciting, well-written book.
1 like
November 15, 2020
First and foremost, a large thank you to Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of this novel, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Having long been a fan of novels with Catholic and/or historical twists, I thoroughly enjoyed Gary McAvoy’s debut book in this series when I read it a few months ago. Now, with the sequel ready for publication, I eagerly accepted a copy to see how the adventure would continue. A new relic is hidden, news of scandalous proportions awaits, and a man is out to avenge the death of his father. All this and more in a single book. Perfect for readers who loved the first book or are searching for something thrilling!
Father Michael Dominic has been enjoying his work as Prefect of the Secret Archives within the Vatican, dealing with some of the most sensitive documents the Church has in its possession. When he is asked to help with a research project, Dominic collects some old manuscripts and uncovers a 13th century puzzle that could be highly important.
After consulting his friend, Swiss journalist Hana Sinclair, Dominic realises what he’s got in his possession. It’s a map of a cave that is said to possess a valuable reliquary once owned by Mary Magdelene. Eager to see it for himself, Dominic convinces two members of the Swiss Guard to accompany him as they troll through the cave.
Unbeknownst to Dominic, his safety may soon be in jeopardy. Recently banished Cardinal Dante has a bone to pick with Dominic, who cost him the prized position of Vatican Secretary of State. Dante reveals that Dominic was involved in a raid that cost a powerful Croat his life. Now, the man’s son seeks revenge and is happy to destroy Dominic any way we can. Ivan Gović learns of Dominic’s cave adventure and plans to kill the priest while collecting the reliquary for himself.
While Dominic and his crew head to France to follow the map’s direction, Dante begins plotting his own return to power by blackmailing the one man who stands in his way. What Dante learns will not only shock the upper ranks of Vatican membership, but could ruin a man’s life as well. With little regard for anyone else, Cardinal Dante makes his move and waits for the dominoes to fall.
Inside the cave, Dominic retrieves the reliquary and notices an important message on its side; one that could change the face of Christianity. However, before he’s able to leave the cave, Gović and his henchmen arrive to collect the prize and seek to block the exit. With Dominic trapped in the cave, it could mean his end, once and for all.
News of the reliquary causes a stir in certain circles, especially once the contents are verified. Gović is sent on a final mission that could earn him great financial wealth, but it will not be as easy as it seems.
With pure determination, Dominic finds a way out of the cave, but still needs to get his hands on the reliquary before it can be sold off and hidden away anew. It will take much grit and determination to find Gović and ensure these secrets do not end up in the wrong hands. It’s a race across Europe and no one is entirely sure where they’re headed next!
Gary McAvoy has not only a great deal of skill when it comes to writing, but also knows how to spin a tale that will keep the reader wanting to know more. Mixing history, religion, politics, and science, McAvoy has crafted a thrilling piece of fiction that just may have some degree of reality buried in the narrative.
Michael Dominic plays a key role in this piece, serving as the quasi-protagonist. His determination to help uncover secrets is like no other. While the first book dealt with a lot of his backstory, there is a degree of that past that emerges in this piece as well. His focus on the prize, the reliquary, drives him throughout the book, though he remains clueless to some of the outside forces that seek to shape him. The interactions between Dominic and Hana Sinclair are obvious to the reader, but seem to fly over the head of the young priest, at least outwardly.
Hana Sinclair heads up a group of strong supporting characters in this piece. She remains determined to uncover the truth no matter what, using her skills and grit to stay one step ahead of everyone else. A number of other characters work well with the various subplots that emerge in the piece, all of which develop independently before coming together in the final pages. McAvoy does a wonderful job of populating his novel with credible characters, all of whom have their own missions.
When it comes to religious thrillers, there are times when the reader must suspend belief and go with what is being presented. McAvoy’s plot delves less into the biblically fanciful and deals primarily with what might actually happen. His story builds throughout and stays relatively plausible, keeping the reader guessing. There are aspects of politics and science, both of which are handled effectively, as well as portions that are straight thrills, perfect for the reader who wants an adventure. I am eager to see where McAvoy wants to take his novels from here, as he writes in such a way that the reader can never get enough. I suppose we’ll have to wait, but I know it will be worth it!
Kudos, Mr. McAvoy, for another stellar novel. Your gift of suspense does not go unnoticed and I hope others are as captivated as I was throughout this experience.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Having long been a fan of novels with Catholic and/or historical twists, I thoroughly enjoyed Gary McAvoy’s debut book in this series when I read it a few months ago. Now, with the sequel ready for publication, I eagerly accepted a copy to see how the adventure would continue. A new relic is hidden, news of scandalous proportions awaits, and a man is out to avenge the death of his father. All this and more in a single book. Perfect for readers who loved the first book or are searching for something thrilling!
Father Michael Dominic has been enjoying his work as Prefect of the Secret Archives within the Vatican, dealing with some of the most sensitive documents the Church has in its possession. When he is asked to help with a research project, Dominic collects some old manuscripts and uncovers a 13th century puzzle that could be highly important.
After consulting his friend, Swiss journalist Hana Sinclair, Dominic realises what he’s got in his possession. It’s a map of a cave that is said to possess a valuable reliquary once owned by Mary Magdelene. Eager to see it for himself, Dominic convinces two members of the Swiss Guard to accompany him as they troll through the cave.
Unbeknownst to Dominic, his safety may soon be in jeopardy. Recently banished Cardinal Dante has a bone to pick with Dominic, who cost him the prized position of Vatican Secretary of State. Dante reveals that Dominic was involved in a raid that cost a powerful Croat his life. Now, the man’s son seeks revenge and is happy to destroy Dominic any way we can. Ivan Gović learns of Dominic’s cave adventure and plans to kill the priest while collecting the reliquary for himself.
While Dominic and his crew head to France to follow the map’s direction, Dante begins plotting his own return to power by blackmailing the one man who stands in his way. What Dante learns will not only shock the upper ranks of Vatican membership, but could ruin a man’s life as well. With little regard for anyone else, Cardinal Dante makes his move and waits for the dominoes to fall.
Inside the cave, Dominic retrieves the reliquary and notices an important message on its side; one that could change the face of Christianity. However, before he’s able to leave the cave, Gović and his henchmen arrive to collect the prize and seek to block the exit. With Dominic trapped in the cave, it could mean his end, once and for all.
News of the reliquary causes a stir in certain circles, especially once the contents are verified. Gović is sent on a final mission that could earn him great financial wealth, but it will not be as easy as it seems.
With pure determination, Dominic finds a way out of the cave, but still needs to get his hands on the reliquary before it can be sold off and hidden away anew. It will take much grit and determination to find Gović and ensure these secrets do not end up in the wrong hands. It’s a race across Europe and no one is entirely sure where they’re headed next!
Gary McAvoy has not only a great deal of skill when it comes to writing, but also knows how to spin a tale that will keep the reader wanting to know more. Mixing history, religion, politics, and science, McAvoy has crafted a thrilling piece of fiction that just may have some degree of reality buried in the narrative.
Michael Dominic plays a key role in this piece, serving as the quasi-protagonist. His determination to help uncover secrets is like no other. While the first book dealt with a lot of his backstory, there is a degree of that past that emerges in this piece as well. His focus on the prize, the reliquary, drives him throughout the book, though he remains clueless to some of the outside forces that seek to shape him. The interactions between Dominic and Hana Sinclair are obvious to the reader, but seem to fly over the head of the young priest, at least outwardly.
Hana Sinclair heads up a group of strong supporting characters in this piece. She remains determined to uncover the truth no matter what, using her skills and grit to stay one step ahead of everyone else. A number of other characters work well with the various subplots that emerge in the piece, all of which develop independently before coming together in the final pages. McAvoy does a wonderful job of populating his novel with credible characters, all of whom have their own missions.
When it comes to religious thrillers, there are times when the reader must suspend belief and go with what is being presented. McAvoy’s plot delves less into the biblically fanciful and deals primarily with what might actually happen. His story builds throughout and stays relatively plausible, keeping the reader guessing. There are aspects of politics and science, both of which are handled effectively, as well as portions that are straight thrills, perfect for the reader who wants an adventure. I am eager to see where McAvoy wants to take his novels from here, as he writes in such a way that the reader can never get enough. I suppose we’ll have to wait, but I know it will be worth it!
Kudos, Mr. McAvoy, for another stellar novel. Your gift of suspense does not go unnoticed and I hope others are as captivated as I was throughout this experience.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
January 3, 2025
Even better than the first part! This time we follow our known team of Michael, Hanah, Karl and Lucas into a French cave to discover an ancient reliquary. Had Jesus and Mary Magdalene a child named Sarah? When it is stolen by Govic's son Ivan the situation becomes turbulent. Can the reliquary be saved from an illegal antiques dealer? A wild is soon to start leading the team to Geneva where the showdown takes place. Entertaining, full of history, a real pleasure for all friends of a Dan Brown like adventure. Well done, Gary, I really enjoyed this book and can highly recommend it!
January 20, 2021
The Magdalene Reliquary is the second book in a series, which I read without having read The Magdalene Deception, which precedes it. This didn't pose any problem, however, as all necessary backstory was woven into the narrative, making the book enjoyable as a standalone novel.
The story was fast-paced and gripping from the start. After finding what seems to be a unique map in the Vatican Secret Archive, Father Dominic, with a group of friends and colleagues, sets off on a search for a reliquary whose contents could be potentially shattering to the Catholic faith. Of course, there are opposing forces at work, notably Ivan Gović, whose father had been killed by Father Dominic and Hana in the first volume of the series. Gović is out for revenge, and if he can secure a windfall for himself by stealing the reliquary and selling it on the black market, more's the better.
One of the most successful aspects of the book was the sensitive way McAvoy handled the potential fallout from the contents of both the reliquary and the manuscript that Father Dominic and Hana had discovered in the first volume of the series. By counterposing the reactions of Brother Calvino and Father Dominic, McAvoy showed why these discoveries could shatter one's long-held religious beliefs, while also allowing for the possibility that one's faith could perdure relatively unshaken. His handling of the issue was more nuanced than I expected to find in a novel of this genre, which I appreciated.
I really wanted to give this novel 4 or 5 stars, but there were a few issues in the writing that I can't ignore. One is McAvoy's tendency to overexplain. Often, this comes in the form of using dialogue to have characters remind each other of plot details or of the relationships between certain people, or to explain/comment on the proceedings. This can be an effective device when done well, but in this novel, it often felt stilted, unnatural, and repetitive. For example, I had a hard time believing that a lab tech would go into such an extensive explanation of the technicalities of the carbon-14 dating process, and the paragraphs of information didn't add to the story. I also found it implausible that the characters to whom the tech was ostensibly speaking would need such an explanation, particularly Tucci, who is purportedly one of Rome's leading dealers of antiquities, and therefore has almost certainly had the age of artifacts verified through carbon-14 dating in the past.
Another issue with the dialogue concerned the accents—or lack thereof—of the various characters. While the cast represents a wide variety of nationalities, the majority of them speak in standard English throughout the novel. The exception is Dmitry Zharkov, the wealthy Russian collector, whose speech alternates between a flawless standard English ("I realize something of this nature cannot be so quickly appraised" or "However, if further testing does not yield satisfactory results, Vincenzo, I will expect a full refund of monies paid") and a heavily accented English devoid of articles ("Tatiana, bring me computer" or "There has been change of plans" or "First, let me show you object that led them to reliquary.") It seems insensitive at best to only imitate the accent of the one Russian character, and to do that inconsistently; it would have been less problematic had McAvoy either gone all-in for the accents or, preferably, allowed all of his characters to speak a neutral standard English. (I didn't mind the foreign terms that were occasionally sprinkled into the text; they felt natural and appropriate, and I thought McAvoy had a good sense for when it was best to leave a term untranslated without interrupting the flow of the story.)
Register was another aspect of how the characters expressed themselves that I wished McAvoy had paid a bit more attention to. I often found the dialogue to be less formal than seemed plausible. For example, I have a hard time believing that a Catholic priest working in the Secret Archives of the Vatican would address anyone as "You guys", or that a member of the Swiss Guard would use emojis while texting. Sometimes the characters sounded more like my college students than residents of the Vatican.
Finally, there were simply too many moments that seemed implausible, or at least a bit too convenient. Having done research in the Beinecke Rare Book Library at Yale, I've experienced the procedures for working with archival material, and I imagine the security at the Vatican is even tighter. There is simply no way Father Dominic could just walk out of there with a 600-year-old map, nor do I believe for a second that he would. And even if he did, he certainly wouldn't carry it around in a backpack, where it would be in danger of being crumpled, ripped, or otherwise destroyed, nor would he lend it out to a friend overnight. Later in the book, when the group was searching Zharkov's for the map, the discovery felt like a deus ex machina moment: Dominic was "taking stock of every nook and cranny of the office for signs of the artifact. And then he saw it—just sitting there on the desk! Could it be any simpler?" Would Zharkov really leave without replacing the map in the safe? Highly doubtful. And Ivan Gović, who is presented as the leader of the Buenos Aires cell of the Novi Ustasha, a ruthless terrorist organization compared to Al-Qaeda and ISIS, suddenly becomes a bumbling idiot after meeting with Zharkov, stopping to buy a Rolex before delivering the reliquary and having his new car stolen out from under him. Upon being captured, Gović is "sweating profusely, terrified of what lay ahead," then "burst[s] into tears" the second Zharkov starts questioning him. This hardly feels like the actions or reactions I would expect from the hardened leader of an extremist terrorist organization who has spent the majority of the book strong-arming others into carrying out his evil plans.
All of that notwithstanding, I truly enjoyed The Magdalene Reliquary and will definitely read the others in the series. The book will especially appeal to fans of Dan Brown.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story was fast-paced and gripping from the start. After finding what seems to be a unique map in the Vatican Secret Archive, Father Dominic, with a group of friends and colleagues, sets off on a search for a reliquary whose contents could be potentially shattering to the Catholic faith. Of course, there are opposing forces at work, notably Ivan Gović, whose father had been killed by Father Dominic and Hana in the first volume of the series. Gović is out for revenge, and if he can secure a windfall for himself by stealing the reliquary and selling it on the black market, more's the better.
One of the most successful aspects of the book was the sensitive way McAvoy handled the potential fallout from the contents of both the reliquary and the manuscript that Father Dominic and Hana had discovered in the first volume of the series. By counterposing the reactions of Brother Calvino and Father Dominic, McAvoy showed why these discoveries could shatter one's long-held religious beliefs, while also allowing for the possibility that one's faith could perdure relatively unshaken. His handling of the issue was more nuanced than I expected to find in a novel of this genre, which I appreciated.
I really wanted to give this novel 4 or 5 stars, but there were a few issues in the writing that I can't ignore. One is McAvoy's tendency to overexplain. Often, this comes in the form of using dialogue to have characters remind each other of plot details or of the relationships between certain people, or to explain/comment on the proceedings. This can be an effective device when done well, but in this novel, it often felt stilted, unnatural, and repetitive. For example, I had a hard time believing that a lab tech would go into such an extensive explanation of the technicalities of the carbon-14 dating process, and the paragraphs of information didn't add to the story. I also found it implausible that the characters to whom the tech was ostensibly speaking would need such an explanation, particularly Tucci, who is purportedly one of Rome's leading dealers of antiquities, and therefore has almost certainly had the age of artifacts verified through carbon-14 dating in the past.
Another issue with the dialogue concerned the accents—or lack thereof—of the various characters. While the cast represents a wide variety of nationalities, the majority of them speak in standard English throughout the novel. The exception is Dmitry Zharkov, the wealthy Russian collector, whose speech alternates between a flawless standard English ("I realize something of this nature cannot be so quickly appraised" or "However, if further testing does not yield satisfactory results, Vincenzo, I will expect a full refund of monies paid") and a heavily accented English devoid of articles ("Tatiana, bring me computer" or "There has been change of plans" or "First, let me show you object that led them to reliquary.") It seems insensitive at best to only imitate the accent of the one Russian character, and to do that inconsistently; it would have been less problematic had McAvoy either gone all-in for the accents or, preferably, allowed all of his characters to speak a neutral standard English. (I didn't mind the foreign terms that were occasionally sprinkled into the text; they felt natural and appropriate, and I thought McAvoy had a good sense for when it was best to leave a term untranslated without interrupting the flow of the story.)
Register was another aspect of how the characters expressed themselves that I wished McAvoy had paid a bit more attention to. I often found the dialogue to be less formal than seemed plausible. For example, I have a hard time believing that a Catholic priest working in the Secret Archives of the Vatican would address anyone as "You guys", or that a member of the Swiss Guard would use emojis while texting. Sometimes the characters sounded more like my college students than residents of the Vatican.
Finally, there were simply too many moments that seemed implausible, or at least a bit too convenient. Having done research in the Beinecke Rare Book Library at Yale, I've experienced the procedures for working with archival material, and I imagine the security at the Vatican is even tighter. There is simply no way Father Dominic could just walk out of there with a 600-year-old map, nor do I believe for a second that he would. And even if he did, he certainly wouldn't carry it around in a backpack, where it would be in danger of being crumpled, ripped, or otherwise destroyed, nor would he lend it out to a friend overnight. Later in the book, when the group was searching Zharkov's for the map, the discovery felt like a deus ex machina moment: Dominic was "taking stock of every nook and cranny of the office for signs of the artifact. And then he saw it—just sitting there on the desk! Could it be any simpler?" Would Zharkov really leave without replacing the map in the safe? Highly doubtful. And Ivan Gović, who is presented as the leader of the Buenos Aires cell of the Novi Ustasha, a ruthless terrorist organization compared to Al-Qaeda and ISIS, suddenly becomes a bumbling idiot after meeting with Zharkov, stopping to buy a Rolex before delivering the reliquary and having his new car stolen out from under him. Upon being captured, Gović is "sweating profusely, terrified of what lay ahead," then "burst[s] into tears" the second Zharkov starts questioning him. This hardly feels like the actions or reactions I would expect from the hardened leader of an extremist terrorist organization who has spent the majority of the book strong-arming others into carrying out his evil plans.
All of that notwithstanding, I truly enjoyed The Magdalene Reliquary and will definitely read the others in the series. The book will especially appeal to fans of Dan Brown.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2023
I do not recall how or where I learned of this 3 book series but I am glad I did. Initially, I was concerned that I might be getting myself involved in a trilogy but after finishing this book I don't really think that's the case. Now that I've read 2 of the 3 books it appears they are stand alone novels but all involve plots based on legends surrounding Mary Magdalene. It is not necessary to have read the first book in order to read the second though it would be better if you did. Both books feature the same cast of characters and reading the first book will more clearly establish their relationships and their characters as you enter the second book and its plot. What is the plot of the second book you might ask. Ask all you want but I won't tell you anything that might spoil the entertainment the book will provide.
The plot of book 2 occurs several months after the end of the story in book 1. The story in book 2 involves a legend of a reliquary possibly containing the body of Christ buried in a cave in the Languedoc region of Southern France. Again, the story derives from a legend of Mary Magdalene. So the story involves the search for this artifact and its hoped for discovery. Villains from book 1 return for book 2 as revenge is sought for injuries inflicted in book 1 and they hope to recover the reliquary before Fr. Dominic and his friends do. There is plenty of action and suspense but much of it seems to end before the book reaches its midway point. I found this to be an odd situation. What was the author going to do with all these other pages he filled? But fill them he did and with a new variety of suspense including what I consider a soap opera plot development that the reader may have suspected starting back in book 1. I found this soap opera event to be rather a silly since its resolution was clearly inevitable and the person initiating the event was too smart not to have foreseen it. Further, in the action occurring in the second half of the book a couple of moral dilemmas are developed where no such realistic dilemma would have occurred. But that's me being picky as these events are very minor. The second half of the book seems to sway into what I would label a caper affair dealing with black market antiquities dealers and Russian oligarchs along with Italian and French intelligence and law enforcement agencies on the trail and in pursuit.
This was a fun read and a nice change of pace for me. Book 3 is sitting on my TBR shelf and I am looking forward to reading it but not right away. There is something of a tease at the end of book 2 that gives the reader a hint that book 3 concerns a hidden Mary Magdalene artifact hidden in a secret vault in a castle by Heinrich Himmler just before the end of WWII. That should be another fun read but I need to make more of a dent in my TBR shelf before getting to that. Enjoy.
The plot of book 2 occurs several months after the end of the story in book 1. The story in book 2 involves a legend of a reliquary possibly containing the body of Christ buried in a cave in the Languedoc region of Southern France. Again, the story derives from a legend of Mary Magdalene. So the story involves the search for this artifact and its hoped for discovery. Villains from book 1 return for book 2 as revenge is sought for injuries inflicted in book 1 and they hope to recover the reliquary before Fr. Dominic and his friends do. There is plenty of action and suspense but much of it seems to end before the book reaches its midway point. I found this to be an odd situation. What was the author going to do with all these other pages he filled? But fill them he did and with a new variety of suspense including what I consider a soap opera plot development that the reader may have suspected starting back in book 1. I found this soap opera event to be rather a silly since its resolution was clearly inevitable and the person initiating the event was too smart not to have foreseen it. Further, in the action occurring in the second half of the book a couple of moral dilemmas are developed where no such realistic dilemma would have occurred. But that's me being picky as these events are very minor. The second half of the book seems to sway into what I would label a caper affair dealing with black market antiquities dealers and Russian oligarchs along with Italian and French intelligence and law enforcement agencies on the trail and in pursuit.
This was a fun read and a nice change of pace for me. Book 3 is sitting on my TBR shelf and I am looking forward to reading it but not right away. There is something of a tease at the end of book 2 that gives the reader a hint that book 3 concerns a hidden Mary Magdalene artifact hidden in a secret vault in a castle by Heinrich Himmler just before the end of WWII. That should be another fun read but I need to make more of a dent in my TBR shelf before getting to that. Enjoy.
October 26, 2020
In the last month, I have read two books by rising star author GARY McAVOY. They are part of a new series called The Magdalen Chronicles. The first was THE MAGDALEN DECEPTION that I previously reviewed. The latest addition to the series is THE MAGDALEN RELIQUARY. Both feature a New York City priest assigned to the Secret Vatican Archives in Vatican City, an independent enclave located in Rome, Italy.
The priest is Father Michael Dominic who specializes in history, computer sciences and mysterious religious artifacts. His main supporter is Cardinal Enrico Petrini, also from New York City, who is now the newly appointed Vatican Secretary of State, number two in the Vatican hierarchy after the Pope. Petrini helped raise Michael along with Michael’s mother, the Cardinal’s housekeeper in New York.
As in the first book, the story briefly opens with an account of a mysterious reliquary (a container of holy relics) purportedly part of the 13th Century Cathar treasure. It was hidden in 1244 in a cave near Castle Montsegur (the last stronghold of the Cathars) the day of their surrender to the Crusaders besieging their castle.
While researching material in the Archives, Michael discovers a puzzle map drawn by noted medieval mapmaker Pietro Vesconte. I have only one problem with that reference. Vesconte was active as a cartographer (mapmaker) from 1310 to 1330. However, literary license is acceptable to make a story work. Raymond VII Count of Toulouse commissioned the map. Toulouse is in what is now southwestern France. The reliquary supposedly contained the bones of either Jesus Christ or somebody related to him.
Father Michael enlists members of his original team from book one. One of them is Hana Sinclair, heir to a Swiss banking family and investigative reporter for the French newspaper, Le Monde. Another is Dr. Simon Ginsberg, professor emeritus of the Jewish Teller University in Rome. Two members of the Vatican’s famed Swiss Guards are Karl Dengler and his partner Lukas are on the team. Also recruited to Michael’s team is Colonel Benito Scarpelli of the Carabinieri’s Art Squad and Massimo Colombo head of Italy’s Internal Security Agency.
One of those opposed to the good guys is Dmitry Zharkov a Jewish Russian billionaire oligarch who collects religious artifacts and art. Another bad guy is Ivan Govic son of Petrov Golic a rogue Interpol agent who are also a members of the Croatian terrorist group known as the Novi Ustasha. Cardinal Fabrizio Dante, former Vatican Secretary of State, whose demotion was caused by Michael in book one, threatens to expose a secret damning to both Michael and Cardinal Petrini. Others who may or may not be villains are Vincenzo a black-market dealer in antiquities and Swiss guard Sgt. Dieter Koehl.
It is not necessary to read book one but it would certainly help the reader understand the relationships of the continuing characters. The story goes from Rome/Vatican City to Buenos Aires (Argentina) to Montsegur (France) to Geneva (Switzerland) and Chamonix (France). It is well written and a page-turner. Action galore. A hint of romance. The cave scenes are breath taking. The inside look at the black-market world of art is eye opening. Once again Gary McAvoy proves he is a top-notch author. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
GO! BUY! READ!
The priest is Father Michael Dominic who specializes in history, computer sciences and mysterious religious artifacts. His main supporter is Cardinal Enrico Petrini, also from New York City, who is now the newly appointed Vatican Secretary of State, number two in the Vatican hierarchy after the Pope. Petrini helped raise Michael along with Michael’s mother, the Cardinal’s housekeeper in New York.
As in the first book, the story briefly opens with an account of a mysterious reliquary (a container of holy relics) purportedly part of the 13th Century Cathar treasure. It was hidden in 1244 in a cave near Castle Montsegur (the last stronghold of the Cathars) the day of their surrender to the Crusaders besieging their castle.
While researching material in the Archives, Michael discovers a puzzle map drawn by noted medieval mapmaker Pietro Vesconte. I have only one problem with that reference. Vesconte was active as a cartographer (mapmaker) from 1310 to 1330. However, literary license is acceptable to make a story work. Raymond VII Count of Toulouse commissioned the map. Toulouse is in what is now southwestern France. The reliquary supposedly contained the bones of either Jesus Christ or somebody related to him.
Father Michael enlists members of his original team from book one. One of them is Hana Sinclair, heir to a Swiss banking family and investigative reporter for the French newspaper, Le Monde. Another is Dr. Simon Ginsberg, professor emeritus of the Jewish Teller University in Rome. Two members of the Vatican’s famed Swiss Guards are Karl Dengler and his partner Lukas are on the team. Also recruited to Michael’s team is Colonel Benito Scarpelli of the Carabinieri’s Art Squad and Massimo Colombo head of Italy’s Internal Security Agency.
One of those opposed to the good guys is Dmitry Zharkov a Jewish Russian billionaire oligarch who collects religious artifacts and art. Another bad guy is Ivan Govic son of Petrov Golic a rogue Interpol agent who are also a members of the Croatian terrorist group known as the Novi Ustasha. Cardinal Fabrizio Dante, former Vatican Secretary of State, whose demotion was caused by Michael in book one, threatens to expose a secret damning to both Michael and Cardinal Petrini. Others who may or may not be villains are Vincenzo a black-market dealer in antiquities and Swiss guard Sgt. Dieter Koehl.
It is not necessary to read book one but it would certainly help the reader understand the relationships of the continuing characters. The story goes from Rome/Vatican City to Buenos Aires (Argentina) to Montsegur (France) to Geneva (Switzerland) and Chamonix (France). It is well written and a page-turner. Action galore. A hint of romance. The cave scenes are breath taking. The inside look at the black-market world of art is eye opening. Once again Gary McAvoy proves he is a top-notch author. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
GO! BUY! READ!
May 21, 2021
3.5*
I learnt quite a bit in this novel. However, I wish there had been more historical information of events that took place in the 12th century. It's what I enjoyed most about the first book. This book felt more like a race from one location to the next. There were too many coincidences and I felt that things became predictable. Still an enjoyable novel and I will be reading the third book in the series.
I learnt quite a bit in this novel. However, I wish there had been more historical information of events that took place in the 12th century. It's what I enjoyed most about the first book. This book felt more like a race from one location to the next. There were too many coincidences and I felt that things became predictable. Still an enjoyable novel and I will be reading the third book in the series.
November 4, 2020
A direct sequel to The Magdalene Deception, and it’s a good one, from my namesake (no relation, I promise). One thing I will say from the off is that before you read …Reliquary it would definitely help to have read its predecessor first, because there is great backstory for most of the endearing cast of characters in this book, and there are multiple strands of narrative which stem from the first. While the quest of this book is a new one (these books tend to revolve around archaeological missions for holy relics – think Dan Brown, or perhaps a more down-to-earth take on Raiders of the Lost Ark). For those of you who don’t know, a reliquary is a chest containing the remains of a historical figure – in this case, the secret child of Christ and Mary Magdalene, so I suggest perhaps not for the more devout Christians amongst you.
The characters are good, and interesting too, including an intrepid priest, a ruthless cardinal, Russian mobsters and a pair of Swiss special forces soldiers with hearts of gold – McAvoy certainly knows how to craft a good book. This story is perhaps less intricate than the puzzle format aspect of the first, but it still contains the trademark genius artefacts; I would say the revenge aspect of the storyline will have a more mainstream appeal, but in fact this is an altogether more subtle affair. It is a little bit slow to build, with a lot of detail and some wordy filler, but I certainly think readers will enjoy it; it’s more of a relaxed frame of mind, cosy winter evening book, which moves gradually toward a pretty action-packed climax. I thought of it perhaps as if Indiana Jones were to feature in an episode of Agatha Christie’s Poirot – this is perhaps enhanced by the continuing storyline involving stolen Nazi gold.
McAvoy is a tremendously eloquent author of the utmost professionalism. His attention to detail is definitely a strong point, and he clearly carries out a huge amount of research into the technicalities and historical accuracies in his work – this is a piece of work which takes itself very seriously. I would describe him as a jobbing author, and a highly proficient one at that, with a wonderful work ethic. I look forward to the next instalment in what I hope is an ongoing series. I would definitely recommend this book, and …Deception before it, to fans of slow-burning, intelligent and interesting stories with a theological aspect.
The characters are good, and interesting too, including an intrepid priest, a ruthless cardinal, Russian mobsters and a pair of Swiss special forces soldiers with hearts of gold – McAvoy certainly knows how to craft a good book. This story is perhaps less intricate than the puzzle format aspect of the first, but it still contains the trademark genius artefacts; I would say the revenge aspect of the storyline will have a more mainstream appeal, but in fact this is an altogether more subtle affair. It is a little bit slow to build, with a lot of detail and some wordy filler, but I certainly think readers will enjoy it; it’s more of a relaxed frame of mind, cosy winter evening book, which moves gradually toward a pretty action-packed climax. I thought of it perhaps as if Indiana Jones were to feature in an episode of Agatha Christie’s Poirot – this is perhaps enhanced by the continuing storyline involving stolen Nazi gold.
McAvoy is a tremendously eloquent author of the utmost professionalism. His attention to detail is definitely a strong point, and he clearly carries out a huge amount of research into the technicalities and historical accuracies in his work – this is a piece of work which takes itself very seriously. I would describe him as a jobbing author, and a highly proficient one at that, with a wonderful work ethic. I look forward to the next instalment in what I hope is an ongoing series. I would definitely recommend this book, and …Deception before it, to fans of slow-burning, intelligent and interesting stories with a theological aspect.
March 20, 2021
Did Jesus and Mary Magdalene have a child?
This book deals with the little understood relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene. Once again Father Michael finds a unique document about Mary Magdalene and engages his friends in an attempt to better understand it. Only to have the documents stolen from an enemy from his past. His friends then travel across Europe in an attempt to get the stole n documents back.
I gave this book a 5-star rating because it was well written. I found the the characters to be believable.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys archeological adventure stories or who action stories.
This book deals with the little understood relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene. Once again Father Michael finds a unique document about Mary Magdalene and engages his friends in an attempt to better understand it. Only to have the documents stolen from an enemy from his past. His friends then travel across Europe in an attempt to get the stole n documents back.
I gave this book a 5-star rating because it was well written. I found the the characters to be believable.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys archeological adventure stories or who action stories.
October 17, 2020
Gary McAvoy gives the plates he set in motion in his debut novel, “The Magdalene Deception”, another spin and the result is “The Magdalene Reliquary”, a highly satisfying sequel. Once again, the reader is treated to intrigue with high ecclesiastical and political stakes as McAvoy trundles his cast of characters through the nooks and crannies of the Vatican archives and the reader through the labyrinth of past European religious conflict and post WWII political skullduggery. Since significant action in the book takes place in a system of caves in France, where a “treasure” of immense religious significance has been buried, “labyrinth” is both a metaphor and a literal description of the byways down which McAvoy successfully ushers his reader.
What makes this sequel so satisfying is how thoroughly McAvoy anchors the story with factual detail. The protocols and rituals, the physical layout of the Vatican – not to mention how its power is structured and how that power has in the past and continues to this day to manipulate world events - are rendered in such fascinating and convincing detail (including, for example, what type of weaponry is standard issue for the Pope’s Swiss Guard) that one might be forgiven the notion that McAvoy is, himself, some mad monk escaped from the bowels of the Vatican archives to pop into the upper world like a chatty groundhog and give us the lowdown.
McAvoy is similarly fluent in the syntax of wealth and social/political power. Many of his characters are drawn from and many of his scenes are set in the world of high-caliber European finance and politics. It is here that his eye for detail, for the talismans and everyday gewgaws of elite wealth, gives the reader the reassuring feeling that he knows whereof he speaks. When, for example, a character observes that the dress worn by the secretary of the man she has an appointment with is from a particular designer and must cost at least €2,000, it isn’t mere name-dropping but an observatory factoid – one of many - that elucidates the economic milieu and pins the narrative to the social landscape in which the story unfolds.
McAvoy has solidified his cast of characters and deepened their relationships in this sequel and it begs the question: Having thus far twice unearthed religious artifacts whose import has threatened the very foundations of Christianity, what will his protagonists next bring to light? McAvoy surely has more up his sleeve and I, for one, can hardly wait to find out what it is.
I want to thank the author and his publisher, Literati Editions, for an advance reader copy and the opportunity to give an unbiased review.
What makes this sequel so satisfying is how thoroughly McAvoy anchors the story with factual detail. The protocols and rituals, the physical layout of the Vatican – not to mention how its power is structured and how that power has in the past and continues to this day to manipulate world events - are rendered in such fascinating and convincing detail (including, for example, what type of weaponry is standard issue for the Pope’s Swiss Guard) that one might be forgiven the notion that McAvoy is, himself, some mad monk escaped from the bowels of the Vatican archives to pop into the upper world like a chatty groundhog and give us the lowdown.
McAvoy is similarly fluent in the syntax of wealth and social/political power. Many of his characters are drawn from and many of his scenes are set in the world of high-caliber European finance and politics. It is here that his eye for detail, for the talismans and everyday gewgaws of elite wealth, gives the reader the reassuring feeling that he knows whereof he speaks. When, for example, a character observes that the dress worn by the secretary of the man she has an appointment with is from a particular designer and must cost at least €2,000, it isn’t mere name-dropping but an observatory factoid – one of many - that elucidates the economic milieu and pins the narrative to the social landscape in which the story unfolds.
McAvoy has solidified his cast of characters and deepened their relationships in this sequel and it begs the question: Having thus far twice unearthed religious artifacts whose import has threatened the very foundations of Christianity, what will his protagonists next bring to light? McAvoy surely has more up his sleeve and I, for one, can hardly wait to find out what it is.
I want to thank the author and his publisher, Literati Editions, for an advance reader copy and the opportunity to give an unbiased review.
November 4, 2020
Gary McAvoy has crafted an intriguing second book in his Magdalene Chronicles series. The Magdalene Reliquary
is a great read, I didn’t want to put it down. I don’t want to reveal too much about the storyline and plot, as part of the immense pleasure of this book is how McAvoy unveils and divulges this absorbing story with the clues and situations he creates to keep you reading on. As we learned in his first book of the series, The Magdalene Deception, Father Michael Dominic, investigative journalist Hana Sinclair, and others he has created all worked together as an adventurous team, with the Vatican Secret Archives serving as the captivating platform. In his second book Father Michael finds a 13th century puzzle during his work within the Vatican Secret Archives. This leads to an exciting adventure that takes us from Rome to France to Switzerland as Father Michael follows clues to solve the puzzle and its meaning. The puzzles’ hidden secrets could shake the very foundations of the church. This book is well researched and McAvoy wisely weaves historical events into his tale alongside cutting-edge technology. The ending is most satisfying while leaving enough maneuvering that you hope the next book in the series is coming soon. I highly recommend this book.
is a great read, I didn’t want to put it down. I don’t want to reveal too much about the storyline and plot, as part of the immense pleasure of this book is how McAvoy unveils and divulges this absorbing story with the clues and situations he creates to keep you reading on. As we learned in his first book of the series, The Magdalene Deception, Father Michael Dominic, investigative journalist Hana Sinclair, and others he has created all worked together as an adventurous team, with the Vatican Secret Archives serving as the captivating platform. In his second book Father Michael finds a 13th century puzzle during his work within the Vatican Secret Archives. This leads to an exciting adventure that takes us from Rome to France to Switzerland as Father Michael follows clues to solve the puzzle and its meaning. The puzzles’ hidden secrets could shake the very foundations of the church. This book is well researched and McAvoy wisely weaves historical events into his tale alongside cutting-edge technology. The ending is most satisfying while leaving enough maneuvering that you hope the next book in the series is coming soon. I highly recommend this book.
January 4, 2023
What an Adventure
This book was non stop adventure and excitement. I can’t wait to read the third book in the series. This was a thrill a minute and I couldn’t put it down. Readers will throughly enjoy this book.
This book was non stop adventure and excitement. I can’t wait to read the third book in the series. This was a thrill a minute and I couldn’t put it down. Readers will throughly enjoy this book.
November 2, 2020
Nothing so satisfying as stumbling on a book that engages, entertains and educates through accessible characters, compelling plot, and interesting settings. McAvoy's "The Magdalene Deception" hits all of these criteria in a great thriller. Even better, he has given us a second helping to keep our appetite for the characters, plot and settings stimulated. "The Magdalene Reliquary" is a worthy and equally satisfying sequel to this story of intrigue and mystery. Now that these characters have become so familiar to us and their quests so engaging, the reader is left hoping for more. We hope McAvoy has more fascinating Vatican archives puzzles in store for his heroes and heroine to pursue. Highky recommended.
December 30, 2022
Uncovering more secrets
This second in the Magdalene Chronicles series is equally as entertaining and thought provoking as the first. McAvoy has created likable characters who once again find themselves caught up in a dangerous adventure. Father Dominic and friends can't help but investigate further the mystery of the Magdalene text and the deeper secret it suggests. The author excellent at blending fact and fiction in such a believable way, the reader will find him or herself eagerly turning pages.
This second in the Magdalene Chronicles series is equally as entertaining and thought provoking as the first. McAvoy has created likable characters who once again find themselves caught up in a dangerous adventure. Father Dominic and friends can't help but investigate further the mystery of the Magdalene text and the deeper secret it suggests. The author excellent at blending fact and fiction in such a believable way, the reader will find him or herself eagerly turning pages.
December 27, 2022
I honestly do not understand how it can be so, but this book was even more fun and exciting than the previous book in Mr. McAvoy's excellent trilogy. His writing is so very well done, the reader feels like she knows all these people, they have become well known to her. The reader is right there as all the twists and turns come about. By the end of the book, one is left gasping and anxious to read the next novel. If you enjoy historical fiction, religious novels or just good mysteries, you will love this book. Gary McAvoy has quickly become one of my favorite authors, right up there with Dean Koontz, Isaac Asimov, John MacDonald, and a few other superb writers!
December 30, 2022
Mary Magdalene
The book is fabulous I couldn't put it down. So very interesting. The author is so knowledgeable about so many things. Is he a biblical historian?
The book is fabulous I couldn't put it down. So very interesting. The author is so knowledgeable about so many things. Is he a biblical historian?
April 20, 2021
Great series! The plot is interesting and inventive. The writing writing keeps your attention. Highly recommend.
December 23, 2022
I thought…
I thought book one was great but Reliquary far surpasses it.
Glad McAvoy took the time to add at the end to inform what is actual events or people.
I thought book one was great but Reliquary far surpasses it.
Glad McAvoy took the time to add at the end to inform what is actual events or people.
December 2, 2020
The ingredients for a satisfying thriller? Combine the young Vatican Archivist Father Michael Dominic, investigative journalist Hana Sinclair and three Vatican Swiss Guards working to protect an ancient religious object, add a ruthless Russian oligarch, an evil Croatian Ustasha agent bent on revenge, and a pinch of gypsy help then stir in some Vatican palace intrigue.
Author Gary McAvoy has baked up a gripping sequel to his debut novel, The Magdalene Deception, in this fast-paced roller coaster yarn, The Magdalene Reliquary. It is the sort of book you can’t, and don’t want to, put down … a read-through-the-night adventure, pausing only to search Google to fact check what you are certain are fictional people, places and events, only to learn they are real.
It is abundantly clear that McAvoy has meticulously researched the historical backstories as well as the settings in Italy, France and Switzerland. His attention to detail, from explosives and caving, to the underground world of collectables and law enforcement, make the story utterly believable, leaving the reader wondering what is real and what is fiction.
The strong character development in his first book is amplified in this sequel as both protagonists and antagonists come to life on pages. The only thing missing is the next in the series, The Magdalene Chronicles. In the meantime, this book goes on my gifting list for friends.
Author Gary McAvoy has baked up a gripping sequel to his debut novel, The Magdalene Deception, in this fast-paced roller coaster yarn, The Magdalene Reliquary. It is the sort of book you can’t, and don’t want to, put down … a read-through-the-night adventure, pausing only to search Google to fact check what you are certain are fictional people, places and events, only to learn they are real.
It is abundantly clear that McAvoy has meticulously researched the historical backstories as well as the settings in Italy, France and Switzerland. His attention to detail, from explosives and caving, to the underground world of collectables and law enforcement, make the story utterly believable, leaving the reader wondering what is real and what is fiction.
The strong character development in his first book is amplified in this sequel as both protagonists and antagonists come to life on pages. The only thing missing is the next in the series, The Magdalene Chronicles. In the meantime, this book goes on my gifting list for friends.
October 11, 2020
I received an advanced copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I enjoyed the first book in this series very much, so was excited to read the second to see how the story progresses. It's so great to read a second-in-series that I enjoyed as much as the next one. The characters are familiar with no sudden changes just to suit a story, and they're enjoyable characters to follow along with. It's clear that McAvoy has spent a considerable amount of time on research, and I found that he seamlessly shares fact with the fictional nature of his story. There's a fun element of almost what I'd call swashbuckling action, and it helps propel the story forward (and helps me turn the page!).
The relationships between characters are something I appreciate. The protagonists are genuine with one another, and there isn't drama for the sake of drama. It's so lovely to see the different versions of romantic and platonic love in play, and that adds to the charm of the book.
McAvoy also teases you with answers but also untied threads. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the first book in this series very much, so was excited to read the second to see how the story progresses. It's so great to read a second-in-series that I enjoyed as much as the next one. The characters are familiar with no sudden changes just to suit a story, and they're enjoyable characters to follow along with. It's clear that McAvoy has spent a considerable amount of time on research, and I found that he seamlessly shares fact with the fictional nature of his story. There's a fun element of almost what I'd call swashbuckling action, and it helps propel the story forward (and helps me turn the page!).
The relationships between characters are something I appreciate. The protagonists are genuine with one another, and there isn't drama for the sake of drama. It's so lovely to see the different versions of romantic and platonic love in play, and that adds to the charm of the book.
McAvoy also teases you with answers but also untied threads. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
December 10, 2020
In the second book of The Magdalene Chronicles,Father Michael Dominic finds a heretofore undiscovered puzzle map from the thirteenth century. He enlists his friend Hana Sinclair to help him decipher the meaning of the puzzle. This effort sets off a fast paced adventure taking them to caves in France in pursuit of an artifact that could change the way the Church’s theodicy is viewed. They enlist a supporting cast of their friends in the Swiss Guards and a renowned scholar to support their quest. Their search arouses the interest of various villainous competitors ...some within the Church hierarchy and some external, including a Russian oligarch and a member of a right wing group.
These elements combine to produce a fast paced and breathtaking story.It is remarkable how well McAvoy combines meticulous historical research and knowledge of the Vatican power structure and is able to blend them together without detracting from the arc of the plot. The result is a well told story that is informative and entertaining simultaneously.Move this book up on your wish list.
These elements combine to produce a fast paced and breathtaking story.It is remarkable how well McAvoy combines meticulous historical research and knowledge of the Vatican power structure and is able to blend them together without detracting from the arc of the plot. The result is a well told story that is informative and entertaining simultaneously.Move this book up on your wish list.
February 23, 2022
Gary McAvoy is a great story teller. From the first page, I am hooked. This story evolves around caving and finding a reliquary hidden deep in a cave in France. This story continues on about Mary Magdalene and the possibility of discovering bones who belong to her. There was action, mystery, and a lot of interesting history around archives in the Vatican. I learned so much about my religion as I read this story. Such a well written story!
March 1, 2022
I couldn’t put it down. I knew when the book was finished there was just one more book in the series…but I just couldn’t stop it and finished it in just two days. And would have finished it on my lunch hour had the battery on my cell phone not gone dead.
I can’t wait to start book three!
Seriously there has to be more than just three stories! I want more!
I can’t wait to start book three!
Seriously there has to be more than just three stories! I want more!
November 28, 2022
Couldn’t put it down!!
The character development is fantastic and the author’s ability to weave historical fact and fiction is among the best I’ve ever read! This book literally had me on the edge of my seat with all the twists and turns it took. I can’t wait to read the next one!!
The character development is fantastic and the author’s ability to weave historical fact and fiction is among the best I’ve ever read! This book literally had me on the edge of my seat with all the twists and turns it took. I can’t wait to read the next one!!
March 20, 2024
Another brilliant story in this phenomenal series, i feel i know the characters personally, the way each character connects with eachother is remarkable, again i love the idea of it being 'Faction' (a mix of true events, and ficiton) makes this all the more incredible, looking forward to reading book 3
February 20, 2021
Better than the first one. A fast read suitable for the beach or the airport. Writing style has still not improved - dialogue needs help.
May 21, 2022
Wow, just another wonderfully and intelligently written Vatican thriller with beautiful prose and execution. I’m on my way to number three!
November 29, 2020
I was introduced to Gary McAvoy and his writing when I received an ARC of the first book in this series The Magdalene Deception. It was a thrilling, well thought out, well researched story that captured me from beginning to end, so when I heard there would be a second I waited patiently for it's release. Mr. McAvoy was kind enough to send me an ARC of this book The Magdalene Reliquary the sequel to the first book, thus satisfying my impatience for some great Vatican drama and intrigue.
Father Michael Dominic, an archivist for the Vatican who has access to millions of documents and other priceless pieces of history related to the church is back and has stumbled on a 13th century puzzle that's been hidden away deep within the the walls of the archives. He quickly realizes he'll need some help solving what this puzzle means and says. Once again he'll call his friend and would be love interest, if of course he weren't a priest, and former fellow sleuth in training Hana along with a few fellow priests and guards who side with good to figure out exactly what he's uncovered here. Of course with good we always have evil and so we have those who want this relic to carry out their own agendas which don't include what's best for the people or the church. The chase becomes a multi country race to find the relic that's been stolen, but who will survive the chase and who will come out in the end with the prize of gaining possession? It truly becomes a fight between good versus evil, but who will win in the end?
The chase, the back and forth, the cat and mouse, whatever you want to call it I was on the edge of my seat and I dare anyone to read this and not feel the same. I couldn't read this book fast enough! Just when I thought the relic was in good hands something would happen and BAM the story changed and it didn't happen only once! It was a thrilling, ever changing, twisting storyline that was exciting and fun to read. I can only hope there will be more Father Dominic stories coming! Hint, hint, Mr. McAvoy!
One of the many things I love about Mr. McAvoy's books is he lets us see, through his magnificent words, the inside of one of the most secretive places in the world, the Vatican. His words allow us to not only enter this most secretive place, but they allow us to almost smell the air in the rooms, feel the fabrics of the furniture, and if we listen carefully we can even hear the whispers of the secretive, powerful, and greedy men who roam the hallways as they share with one another. Similar, I imagine to what we'd hear in any boardroom in the world, but this is the Vatican, the difference here is god! As an atheist this befuddles me and why I love McAvoy's books. He challenges one to think about the "What ifs?" of religion. He presents the reader with the questions and allows them to make the call. I find this sadly, but most assuredly different and new. Not many would be brave enough to question such highly revered tenets of the Catholic church and long held Christian beliefs. It is refreshing to say the least. Take it from me, the atheist in the room, this is not a book about god, or it never would have made my list of books to read, but it is a great mystery and chase against time, good versus evil tale. You could probably read this one as a standalone, but I would definitely start with The Magdalene Deception so you can get to know the recurring characters and their backgrounds better. I'm going to say this again just in case Mr. McAvoy is reading, I want more Father Dominic and Hana! I say read this one after the first in the series and have a great time following Father Dominic as he struggles to save the beliefs he continues to struggle with. Happy Reading!
Father Michael Dominic, an archivist for the Vatican who has access to millions of documents and other priceless pieces of history related to the church is back and has stumbled on a 13th century puzzle that's been hidden away deep within the the walls of the archives. He quickly realizes he'll need some help solving what this puzzle means and says. Once again he'll call his friend and would be love interest, if of course he weren't a priest, and former fellow sleuth in training Hana along with a few fellow priests and guards who side with good to figure out exactly what he's uncovered here. Of course with good we always have evil and so we have those who want this relic to carry out their own agendas which don't include what's best for the people or the church. The chase becomes a multi country race to find the relic that's been stolen, but who will survive the chase and who will come out in the end with the prize of gaining possession? It truly becomes a fight between good versus evil, but who will win in the end?
The chase, the back and forth, the cat and mouse, whatever you want to call it I was on the edge of my seat and I dare anyone to read this and not feel the same. I couldn't read this book fast enough! Just when I thought the relic was in good hands something would happen and BAM the story changed and it didn't happen only once! It was a thrilling, ever changing, twisting storyline that was exciting and fun to read. I can only hope there will be more Father Dominic stories coming! Hint, hint, Mr. McAvoy!
One of the many things I love about Mr. McAvoy's books is he lets us see, through his magnificent words, the inside of one of the most secretive places in the world, the Vatican. His words allow us to not only enter this most secretive place, but they allow us to almost smell the air in the rooms, feel the fabrics of the furniture, and if we listen carefully we can even hear the whispers of the secretive, powerful, and greedy men who roam the hallways as they share with one another. Similar, I imagine to what we'd hear in any boardroom in the world, but this is the Vatican, the difference here is god! As an atheist this befuddles me and why I love McAvoy's books. He challenges one to think about the "What ifs?" of religion. He presents the reader with the questions and allows them to make the call. I find this sadly, but most assuredly different and new. Not many would be brave enough to question such highly revered tenets of the Catholic church and long held Christian beliefs. It is refreshing to say the least. Take it from me, the atheist in the room, this is not a book about god, or it never would have made my list of books to read, but it is a great mystery and chase against time, good versus evil tale. You could probably read this one as a standalone, but I would definitely start with The Magdalene Deception so you can get to know the recurring characters and their backgrounds better. I'm going to say this again just in case Mr. McAvoy is reading, I want more Father Dominic and Hana! I say read this one after the first in the series and have a great time following Father Dominic as he struggles to save the beliefs he continues to struggle with. Happy Reading!
December 1, 2020
WONDERFUL!! WONDERFUL!!
When a writer comes along with the ability to capture the attention of his audience in the first few sentences of a story that begins after Pope Innocent III’s massacre of thousands of Cathari men, women, and children at Béziers, in the first major battle of the Albigensian Crusade, readers need to stand up and take hold of his novels with both hands! I wish Gary McAvoy had penned the Magdalene Trilogy years ago when I was still in school learning the history of Pope Innocent III’s tortured attempt to eradicate heresy (i.e., Catharism) in Southern France in the 12th Century!
Reliquary is the second novel in a trilogy based on the discovery of ancient documents in the Vatican’s Secret Archives, which, if disclosed to the public, would have shattered one of the major world religions to its’ very core and impacted every corner of the globe. The first novel, The Magdalene Deception, was a wonderful and brilliantly conceived plot that spanned critical historic events from the time of Christ, through the Vatican’s collaboration with the Nazi’s during and after World War II. Deception was jammed-packed with accurate historic details and edge-of-your-seat action and adventure.
To say that with Reliquary Gary McAvoy “has done it again,” is a gross under exaggeration. Reliquary is a top-notch thriller - fast-paced, well written and a solidly researched adventure about the discovery of a map that leads to the location of an ancient reliquary and its’ contents.
This story flowed effortlessly and seamlessly because of Mr. McAvoy's innate ability to interweave thoroughly researched details with historic local facts within the characters' environs and the novel's plot. As someone who fancies herself a student of history, I have an immense respect for the details Mr. McAvoy peppered throughout this series. His talent for fleshing out and enriching his stories with historically accurate facts and information, is one of my favorite things about Mr. McAvoy's writing style that sets him apart from other authors.
And, Reliquary shows the return of some of my favorite characters: F. Michael, Simon Ginzberg, the delightfully wicked Cardinal Dante, and Hana Sinclair and her grandfather. And Mr. McAvoy displays a penchant toward a very dry, very droll sense of humor with his reference to Mr. Graf!
As an aside, I have to note that Gary McAvoy exercised pure genius in setting this 3-book series in the Vatican Secret Archives. Think about the possible and potential gravitas for protagonists making world-changing discoveries hidden away in the bowels of the Vatican, such a fertile setting allowing limitless plotlines, subterfuge, intrigue, and all manner of juicy badness/goodness! I bet Dan Brown is pea-green with envy!
So, I cannot wait for the next adventure...and discovery in the vaults of the SECRET ARCHIVES of the Vatican!!
When a writer comes along with the ability to capture the attention of his audience in the first few sentences of a story that begins after Pope Innocent III’s massacre of thousands of Cathari men, women, and children at Béziers, in the first major battle of the Albigensian Crusade, readers need to stand up and take hold of his novels with both hands! I wish Gary McAvoy had penned the Magdalene Trilogy years ago when I was still in school learning the history of Pope Innocent III’s tortured attempt to eradicate heresy (i.e., Catharism) in Southern France in the 12th Century!
Reliquary is the second novel in a trilogy based on the discovery of ancient documents in the Vatican’s Secret Archives, which, if disclosed to the public, would have shattered one of the major world religions to its’ very core and impacted every corner of the globe. The first novel, The Magdalene Deception, was a wonderful and brilliantly conceived plot that spanned critical historic events from the time of Christ, through the Vatican’s collaboration with the Nazi’s during and after World War II. Deception was jammed-packed with accurate historic details and edge-of-your-seat action and adventure.
To say that with Reliquary Gary McAvoy “has done it again,” is a gross under exaggeration. Reliquary is a top-notch thriller - fast-paced, well written and a solidly researched adventure about the discovery of a map that leads to the location of an ancient reliquary and its’ contents.
This story flowed effortlessly and seamlessly because of Mr. McAvoy's innate ability to interweave thoroughly researched details with historic local facts within the characters' environs and the novel's plot. As someone who fancies herself a student of history, I have an immense respect for the details Mr. McAvoy peppered throughout this series. His talent for fleshing out and enriching his stories with historically accurate facts and information, is one of my favorite things about Mr. McAvoy's writing style that sets him apart from other authors.
And, Reliquary shows the return of some of my favorite characters: F. Michael, Simon Ginzberg, the delightfully wicked Cardinal Dante, and Hana Sinclair and her grandfather. And Mr. McAvoy displays a penchant toward a very dry, very droll sense of humor with his reference to Mr. Graf!
As an aside, I have to note that Gary McAvoy exercised pure genius in setting this 3-book series in the Vatican Secret Archives. Think about the possible and potential gravitas for protagonists making world-changing discoveries hidden away in the bowels of the Vatican, such a fertile setting allowing limitless plotlines, subterfuge, intrigue, and all manner of juicy badness/goodness! I bet Dan Brown is pea-green with envy!
So, I cannot wait for the next adventure...and discovery in the vaults of the SECRET ARCHIVES of the Vatican!!
August 1, 2022
A stimulating read
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in the ‘Magdalene Chronicles’ series. As was the case with the first one, this is a phenomenal suspense thriller with an incredible storyline. A few surprises, turns, twists and a cleverly crafted narrative. I liked the historical prologue which takes us back in time and then skilfully transfers us from the 13th century religious era to the present day politics at the Vatican.
The character developments are so well rendered. It was nice to revisit our heroes Fr. Michael Dominic, Hana Sinclair, Cardinal Petrini, Dr. Ginzberg, the Swiss guards, the Pope and others. Having met them in the first book, I felt part of their team, travelling through Rome, Switzerland and France. I did not expect a Russian oligarch to be one of the new antagonists. That made it all the more nerve-racking.
This book is one of those in which you simply want to get from one chapter to the next without putting it down. The pace is dramatic and before you know it, time has just flown by. It is such a fantastic & stimulating read, a solid plot that is so plausible. You want to believe that every word is true, even if you know that part of it is fiction.
Looking forward to the third book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in the ‘Magdalene Chronicles’ series. As was the case with the first one, this is a phenomenal suspense thriller with an incredible storyline. A few surprises, turns, twists and a cleverly crafted narrative. I liked the historical prologue which takes us back in time and then skilfully transfers us from the 13th century religious era to the present day politics at the Vatican.
The character developments are so well rendered. It was nice to revisit our heroes Fr. Michael Dominic, Hana Sinclair, Cardinal Petrini, Dr. Ginzberg, the Swiss guards, the Pope and others. Having met them in the first book, I felt part of their team, travelling through Rome, Switzerland and France. I did not expect a Russian oligarch to be one of the new antagonists. That made it all the more nerve-racking.
This book is one of those in which you simply want to get from one chapter to the next without putting it down. The pace is dramatic and before you know it, time has just flown by. It is such a fantastic & stimulating read, a solid plot that is so plausible. You want to believe that every word is true, even if you know that part of it is fiction.
Looking forward to the third book.
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