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The Magdalene Chronicles #3
The Magdalene Veil
An old World War II diary filled with cryptic clues launches two friends on an adventure around the world . . .
. . . but their path is fraught with danger and deception . . .
. . . and the treasure they seek can change everything for good—or evil.
Father Michael Dominic and his journalist friend Hana Sinclair are off to follow a tantalizing lead: a Nazi journal revealing a holy relic’s hiding place. The pair believes the book could lead them to a sacred cloth Christ used to cleanse his face, which according to legend now bears his image — a living record of the Son of God’s true appearance.
The diary propels them on a whirlwind adventure from Jerusalem, to Rome, to Buenos Aires. But as they unravel an ancient mystery, they run afoul of a nefarious sect determined to use the Magdalene veil for its own ends. Can Michael and Hana outsmart their ruthless adversaries and bring the artifact home to the Church, or will the revival of Aryan ambition destroy the long-lost relic of Christ?
If you love fast-paced novels grounded in history, grab this non-stop action-packed thriller! McAvoy’s fans say his “attention to detail makes the story utterly believable, leaving the reader wondering what is real and what is fiction.”
. . . but their path is fraught with danger and deception . . .
. . . and the treasure they seek can change everything for good—or evil.
Father Michael Dominic and his journalist friend Hana Sinclair are off to follow a tantalizing lead: a Nazi journal revealing a holy relic’s hiding place. The pair believes the book could lead them to a sacred cloth Christ used to cleanse his face, which according to legend now bears his image — a living record of the Son of God’s true appearance.
The diary propels them on a whirlwind adventure from Jerusalem, to Rome, to Buenos Aires. But as they unravel an ancient mystery, they run afoul of a nefarious sect determined to use the Magdalene veil for its own ends. Can Michael and Hana outsmart their ruthless adversaries and bring the artifact home to the Church, or will the revival of Aryan ambition destroy the long-lost relic of Christ?
If you love fast-paced novels grounded in history, grab this non-stop action-packed thriller! McAvoy’s fans say his “attention to detail makes the story utterly believable, leaving the reader wondering what is real and what is fiction.”
448 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2021
549 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Gary McAvoy
38 books481 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 139 reviews
March 27, 2021
I was delighted to receive the final draft of this book. I want to extend my sincere thanks to its author, Gary McAvoy. To be released on April 1st.
Once again, Father Michael Dominic with his friend, Hana Sinclair, are on an exciting and dangerous mission, searching for a legendary sacred relic connected to Mary Magdalene. They are on a search for the Veil of Veronica. Its story may perhaps be legendary, but the veil was said to be handed to Jesus on his way to the cross. When he wiped his face with it, His visage and blood were imprinted on the cloth passed on to Mary Magdalene.
This is the third book in the series: The Magadelene Deception, The Magdalene Reliquary, and coming soon, April 1st, the Magdalene Veil. This time the priest and the journalist, Hana, have some very treacherous foes, the neo-Nazis of Bariloche. This is a city in Argentina where many German Nazis settled after the war. They want the veil for their own evil purposes. They intend to produce pure Aryan children and indoctrinate them through education in Nazi propaganda. Mengele's assistant is still alive and in his 90's. The intention is to extract Christ's DNA from the blood on the veil and inject it into pure Aryan children. They contend that Christ was of Aryan lineage. Michael and Hana are amazed to find that an old enemy, the corrupt Bishop Dante, is involved. He was sent to Argentina after some wrongdoings in Rome.
They are again assisted in their quest by two Swiss Guards and a couple of Gypsies we have met in previous books. Interpol and the Mossad covert operations branch are drawn into the search. Who will find the veil? Will it end up as a sacred artifact in the Vatican? Will the neo-Nazis use it for profane purposes, or will it be sold to a wealthy Russian collector?
This was a tense, thrilling, and suspenseful story. It was so well written and researched that I found myself pausing to Google some true historical events and try to sort facts from fiction. The author has added some references at the end of the book to let us know what fictional parts he inserted, but it was all seamless and believable. The German City of Bariloche in Argentina and Rome's city were well described and gave an immersive, realistic, vibrant sense of place. The books involve discovering or recovering priceless religious relics, but you do not have to be religious to enjoy these immersive, exciting thrillers. Anyone who likes suspenseful, believable quests and adventure will find these well-written and researched books compelling. The story-telling is brilliant.
This was the third and final book in the series, but I was pleased to read that Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair may be returning for further adventures. This worked as a standalone, but readers would enjoy the previous two books in the series as some of the heroes and villains are recurring characters.
The Magdalene Veil is highly recommended for readers who enjoyed the previous books in the series and new readers who want an intense action-adventure with intriguing characters.
Once again, Father Michael Dominic with his friend, Hana Sinclair, are on an exciting and dangerous mission, searching for a legendary sacred relic connected to Mary Magdalene. They are on a search for the Veil of Veronica. Its story may perhaps be legendary, but the veil was said to be handed to Jesus on his way to the cross. When he wiped his face with it, His visage and blood were imprinted on the cloth passed on to Mary Magdalene.
This is the third book in the series: The Magadelene Deception, The Magdalene Reliquary, and coming soon, April 1st, the Magdalene Veil. This time the priest and the journalist, Hana, have some very treacherous foes, the neo-Nazis of Bariloche. This is a city in Argentina where many German Nazis settled after the war. They want the veil for their own evil purposes. They intend to produce pure Aryan children and indoctrinate them through education in Nazi propaganda. Mengele's assistant is still alive and in his 90's. The intention is to extract Christ's DNA from the blood on the veil and inject it into pure Aryan children. They contend that Christ was of Aryan lineage. Michael and Hana are amazed to find that an old enemy, the corrupt Bishop Dante, is involved. He was sent to Argentina after some wrongdoings in Rome.
They are again assisted in their quest by two Swiss Guards and a couple of Gypsies we have met in previous books. Interpol and the Mossad covert operations branch are drawn into the search. Who will find the veil? Will it end up as a sacred artifact in the Vatican? Will the neo-Nazis use it for profane purposes, or will it be sold to a wealthy Russian collector?
This was a tense, thrilling, and suspenseful story. It was so well written and researched that I found myself pausing to Google some true historical events and try to sort facts from fiction. The author has added some references at the end of the book to let us know what fictional parts he inserted, but it was all seamless and believable. The German City of Bariloche in Argentina and Rome's city were well described and gave an immersive, realistic, vibrant sense of place. The books involve discovering or recovering priceless religious relics, but you do not have to be religious to enjoy these immersive, exciting thrillers. Anyone who likes suspenseful, believable quests and adventure will find these well-written and researched books compelling. The story-telling is brilliant.
This was the third and final book in the series, but I was pleased to read that Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair may be returning for further adventures. This worked as a standalone, but readers would enjoy the previous two books in the series as some of the heroes and villains are recurring characters.
The Magdalene Veil is highly recommended for readers who enjoyed the previous books in the series and new readers who want an intense action-adventure with intriguing characters.
March 27, 2021
First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always eager to get my hands on anything penned by Gary McAvoy, I was pleased to be handed an ARC of his latest novel, the final in the electrifying Magdalene Chronicles trilogy. While Father Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair have been busy uncovering old biblical-era mysteries, there are some who want the secrets and possessions all for themselves. In this last piece, an old relic appears to have fallen into the hands of the Nazis, stowed away for decades. Now, a group seeking to revive old Aryan roots wants to utilise the artifact to create new and impactful change to the world. In a piece that spans two continents, McAvoy takes readers on his most intense journey yet. Perfect for those who have devoured the previous two novels, as well as the reader who needs a book that is unputdownable!
On his way to his execution, Jesus was stopped by a woman who helped wipe away his blood and sweat with a veil from around her head. Thankful for the act, Christ does so before being led to Calvary for his crucifixion. The woman, a devout follower, passes the veil along to Mary Magdalene, who ensures it is placed within the tomb where Christ is buried. When his disciples find the tomb empty three days later, there is the veil, complete with a facial outline of Jesus.
During the era of the Nazis, this veil was touted to be exactly what they needed to push forward and seek to vilify the Jews even more. When the veil was obtained by Heinrich Himmler, he made sure to stow it away in a secret location and left a riddle so that the next generation would be able to find it, though not with any ease. His plan was surely to revive the Aryan race through its most prominent member, Christ himself.
While in France for some educational purposes, Father Michael Dominic is approached by a young man purporting to be in possession of some significant information that could be of interest to the Vatican. Dominic soon learns that there is a diary of Heinrich Himmler that could reveal something significant. The young man, who admits his grandfather was a high-ranking Nazi who fled to Argentina, wishes to learn the secrets in the diary and perhaps uncover what is said to be a relic from the time of Christ.
Never one to turn down a historical mystery, Father Dominic broaches the subject with his friend, Hana Sinclair, whose job as a journalist is rooted in uncovering mysteries of all kinds. Working together, they locate the diary, which leads them to Argentina. They learn of a group, the Ahnenerbe, who pose as a social group, but have strong ties to Nazi-era membership. Whispers about possible neo-Nazi revival cannot be dismissed either. When Dominic and Sinclair are able to piece together the riddle left by Himmler, they learn that the secret, the Magdalene Veil, is hidden in an old German castle that was once a Nazi training ground.
Keen to retrieve the article for the Vatican, Dominic and Sinclair make arrangements to have it removed and brought to the Holy See. However, there are some who want it for themselves and will stop at nothing to retrieve it. When it falls into the hands of the Ahnenerbe, they hope to use it for their own means, as they develop a Kinderklinik, a place to foster a new era of neo-Nazis under the radar, while also using new techniques to begin genetic experiments. With the Veil in their possession, this group has plans to extract something and turn the Church on its head, while reviving old sentiments that will surely tear the post-War world apart anew.
While Father Dominic and Hana Sinclair are held captive, they learn that a high-ranking Vatican member might be pulling the strings to allow this power play, which could only ruin centuries of Church control of the message. It will take much determination and some key messaging to foil the plot and key the Magdalene Veil safely in the hands of those who cherish it, and wish to keep it secret once again. An explosive end to the series, but which direction will it take and how will the world change when all is revealed?
I stumbled upon the first book in this series last summer and could not put it down. When Gary McAvoy reached out to me to read the next two novels, I pushed all my other reading commitments to the side so that I could dive right in. I was thrilled and devoured the stories, as they tell such an alluring tale, so much so that I was up well into the night to flip pages and discover what was to come of the protagonists. It is that sort of story and a series not to be missed by those who love biblical mysteries of a kind.
Father Michael Dominic reprises his role as protagonist and does a masterful job. While his backstory is left mostly in the previous novels, the reader can see great development of his character throughout this piece. There is a gritty determination throughout, as he mixes his archivist past with a penchant for being a sleuth. His connections serve him well throughout this piece, though it is a sense of wanting to protect the Vatican that shines through, pitting secrets against keeping the peace for the Church.
McAvoy creates strong supporting characters throughout, using many of those who grace the pages of the book to connect the dots in history, as well as the revival of the neo-Nazi movement. There is a richness, not only in the characters, but also the history of which they speak, which flavours the narrative effectively and conveys the seriousness of the mission at hand. Spanning three eras, these characters tell a story that will pull the reader deeper into the plot as all is revealed in a timely manner.
The story was perhaps the more electrifying of the three novels, putting a sense of urgency front and centre. McAvoy’s ability to spin a tale is second to none and there were times I wished I had binge-read all three books back to back, if only to reconnect with all the nuances that appear in the text. However, this book packs enough punch and history to have kept me intrigued throughout. McAvoy uses short chapters to keep the reader propelling forward, peppering in history and anecdotes throughout to assuage the curious while still keeping a degree of mystery. The narrative moved at breakneck speed and there is little time for the reader to relax, as the story is not one that meanders at any point. McAvoy’s use of local language (Spanish, German, etc) helps to inject a sense of realism to the story, leaving the reader to feel as though they were right there. While things do come together in the end, it is the sense of panic and ‘what could be’ that keeps the reader wondering well after closing the book’s cover. McAvoy does ensure that those who wonder where fiction and fact come together are calmed with an Author’s Note to discuss it all. I can only hope that McAvoy has something similar for his next writing assignment, as I am hooked and want more of this sort of novel.
Kudos, Mr. McAvoy, for another stunning piece. With the trilogy done, I can only hope people will hear of these books and discover Father Michael Dominic for themselves. I am sure your fan base is about to swell very soon!
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/...
Always eager to get my hands on anything penned by Gary McAvoy, I was pleased to be handed an ARC of his latest novel, the final in the electrifying Magdalene Chronicles trilogy. While Father Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair have been busy uncovering old biblical-era mysteries, there are some who want the secrets and possessions all for themselves. In this last piece, an old relic appears to have fallen into the hands of the Nazis, stowed away for decades. Now, a group seeking to revive old Aryan roots wants to utilise the artifact to create new and impactful change to the world. In a piece that spans two continents, McAvoy takes readers on his most intense journey yet. Perfect for those who have devoured the previous two novels, as well as the reader who needs a book that is unputdownable!
On his way to his execution, Jesus was stopped by a woman who helped wipe away his blood and sweat with a veil from around her head. Thankful for the act, Christ does so before being led to Calvary for his crucifixion. The woman, a devout follower, passes the veil along to Mary Magdalene, who ensures it is placed within the tomb where Christ is buried. When his disciples find the tomb empty three days later, there is the veil, complete with a facial outline of Jesus.
During the era of the Nazis, this veil was touted to be exactly what they needed to push forward and seek to vilify the Jews even more. When the veil was obtained by Heinrich Himmler, he made sure to stow it away in a secret location and left a riddle so that the next generation would be able to find it, though not with any ease. His plan was surely to revive the Aryan race through its most prominent member, Christ himself.
While in France for some educational purposes, Father Michael Dominic is approached by a young man purporting to be in possession of some significant information that could be of interest to the Vatican. Dominic soon learns that there is a diary of Heinrich Himmler that could reveal something significant. The young man, who admits his grandfather was a high-ranking Nazi who fled to Argentina, wishes to learn the secrets in the diary and perhaps uncover what is said to be a relic from the time of Christ.
Never one to turn down a historical mystery, Father Dominic broaches the subject with his friend, Hana Sinclair, whose job as a journalist is rooted in uncovering mysteries of all kinds. Working together, they locate the diary, which leads them to Argentina. They learn of a group, the Ahnenerbe, who pose as a social group, but have strong ties to Nazi-era membership. Whispers about possible neo-Nazi revival cannot be dismissed either. When Dominic and Sinclair are able to piece together the riddle left by Himmler, they learn that the secret, the Magdalene Veil, is hidden in an old German castle that was once a Nazi training ground.
Keen to retrieve the article for the Vatican, Dominic and Sinclair make arrangements to have it removed and brought to the Holy See. However, there are some who want it for themselves and will stop at nothing to retrieve it. When it falls into the hands of the Ahnenerbe, they hope to use it for their own means, as they develop a Kinderklinik, a place to foster a new era of neo-Nazis under the radar, while also using new techniques to begin genetic experiments. With the Veil in their possession, this group has plans to extract something and turn the Church on its head, while reviving old sentiments that will surely tear the post-War world apart anew.
While Father Dominic and Hana Sinclair are held captive, they learn that a high-ranking Vatican member might be pulling the strings to allow this power play, which could only ruin centuries of Church control of the message. It will take much determination and some key messaging to foil the plot and key the Magdalene Veil safely in the hands of those who cherish it, and wish to keep it secret once again. An explosive end to the series, but which direction will it take and how will the world change when all is revealed?
I stumbled upon the first book in this series last summer and could not put it down. When Gary McAvoy reached out to me to read the next two novels, I pushed all my other reading commitments to the side so that I could dive right in. I was thrilled and devoured the stories, as they tell such an alluring tale, so much so that I was up well into the night to flip pages and discover what was to come of the protagonists. It is that sort of story and a series not to be missed by those who love biblical mysteries of a kind.
Father Michael Dominic reprises his role as protagonist and does a masterful job. While his backstory is left mostly in the previous novels, the reader can see great development of his character throughout this piece. There is a gritty determination throughout, as he mixes his archivist past with a penchant for being a sleuth. His connections serve him well throughout this piece, though it is a sense of wanting to protect the Vatican that shines through, pitting secrets against keeping the peace for the Church.
McAvoy creates strong supporting characters throughout, using many of those who grace the pages of the book to connect the dots in history, as well as the revival of the neo-Nazi movement. There is a richness, not only in the characters, but also the history of which they speak, which flavours the narrative effectively and conveys the seriousness of the mission at hand. Spanning three eras, these characters tell a story that will pull the reader deeper into the plot as all is revealed in a timely manner.
The story was perhaps the more electrifying of the three novels, putting a sense of urgency front and centre. McAvoy’s ability to spin a tale is second to none and there were times I wished I had binge-read all three books back to back, if only to reconnect with all the nuances that appear in the text. However, this book packs enough punch and history to have kept me intrigued throughout. McAvoy uses short chapters to keep the reader propelling forward, peppering in history and anecdotes throughout to assuage the curious while still keeping a degree of mystery. The narrative moved at breakneck speed and there is little time for the reader to relax, as the story is not one that meanders at any point. McAvoy’s use of local language (Spanish, German, etc) helps to inject a sense of realism to the story, leaving the reader to feel as though they were right there. While things do come together in the end, it is the sense of panic and ‘what could be’ that keeps the reader wondering well after closing the book’s cover. McAvoy does ensure that those who wonder where fiction and fact come together are calmed with an Author’s Note to discuss it all. I can only hope that McAvoy has something similar for his next writing assignment, as I am hooked and want more of this sort of novel.
Kudos, Mr. McAvoy, for another stunning piece. With the trilogy done, I can only hope people will hear of these books and discover Father Michael Dominic for themselves. I am sure your fan base is about to swell very soon!
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/...
April 17, 2021
Incredible
Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2021
Gary McAvoy's fantastic novel, “The Magdalene Veil” builds a fast paced novel concerning the legend of Veronica's veil. This was used to wipe the blood and sweat from Jesus' face.
This book is a perfect example of true historical fiction--mixing actual historical events, traditions, people, and legends.
Character Development is very strong. Strong characters keep getting into trouble and we are left to cheer along.
Well written with and detailed. descriptions of the settings, especially, the Latin America sections.
I highly recommend this novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2021
Gary McAvoy's fantastic novel, “The Magdalene Veil” builds a fast paced novel concerning the legend of Veronica's veil. This was used to wipe the blood and sweat from Jesus' face.
This book is a perfect example of true historical fiction--mixing actual historical events, traditions, people, and legends.
Character Development is very strong. Strong characters keep getting into trouble and we are left to cheer along.
Well written with and detailed. descriptions of the settings, especially, the Latin America sections.
I highly recommend this novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2021
Father Michael Dominic is back for another adventure in the concluding book of the Magdalene Trilogy. Now elevated to the role of Prefect of the Vatican Archives, Michael joins with his well connected journalist friend, Hana Sinclair in pursuit of the mysteriously enshrouded Magdalene Veil.
While attending an educational conference in France, Michael has a casual encounter with a young German man whose grandfather was a high ranking Nazi. He grandson hints at a secret diary written by Heinrich Himmler that has information that could be relevant to the Vatican. Michael’s sense of adventure and intrigue are immediately aroused. He enlists Hana in his quest and their journey begins.
Their research leads them to a story starting in 33 CE in Jerusalem on the day of Jesus’s crucifixion.The trail continues through the Nazi war years to present day Germany and includes a trip to Argentina to the city of Bariloche, rife with Neo Nazi sympathizers.
The author keeps the pace of the plot brisk and infuses it with a wealth of historical knowledge. He mixes in the aura of the Vatican and its political infighting and vividly describes the places visited by the globetrotting duo.
The story is also populated by Michael’s support team of Swiss Guards, gypsies and an elderly researcher.There is even a recurring nefarious villain from the Vatican who is doggedly determined to thwart Michael’s team.
These components produce an unpretentious and well crafted mystery and thriller.Gary McAvoy has created an attractive set of protagonists and augmented them with engaging secondary characters that recur throughout the trilogy. He displays a healthy respect for historical accuracy and provides an afterword that separates historical fact from literary license. There is a hint that our peripatetic protagonists might appear in further adventures now that this saga is concluded. I am barely able to contain my anticipation.4.5 stars.
While attending an educational conference in France, Michael has a casual encounter with a young German man whose grandfather was a high ranking Nazi. He grandson hints at a secret diary written by Heinrich Himmler that has information that could be relevant to the Vatican. Michael’s sense of adventure and intrigue are immediately aroused. He enlists Hana in his quest and their journey begins.
Their research leads them to a story starting in 33 CE in Jerusalem on the day of Jesus’s crucifixion.The trail continues through the Nazi war years to present day Germany and includes a trip to Argentina to the city of Bariloche, rife with Neo Nazi sympathizers.
The author keeps the pace of the plot brisk and infuses it with a wealth of historical knowledge. He mixes in the aura of the Vatican and its political infighting and vividly describes the places visited by the globetrotting duo.
The story is also populated by Michael’s support team of Swiss Guards, gypsies and an elderly researcher.There is even a recurring nefarious villain from the Vatican who is doggedly determined to thwart Michael’s team.
These components produce an unpretentious and well crafted mystery and thriller.Gary McAvoy has created an attractive set of protagonists and augmented them with engaging secondary characters that recur throughout the trilogy. He displays a healthy respect for historical accuracy and provides an afterword that separates historical fact from literary license. There is a hint that our peripatetic protagonists might appear in further adventures now that this saga is concluded. I am barely able to contain my anticipation.4.5 stars.
March 8, 2021
In the last 6 months, I have discovered and read three books by an exciting new writer in the field of international and historical suspense. His name is GARY MCAVOY. Book 3 in his Magdalene Chronicles is THE MAGDALENE VEIL. The Magdalene is Mary Magdalene one of the closest friends of Jesus Christ. Some have even said that they were even a married couple and had children. As in his prior books in this series, the author includes some actual history as well as fiction.
Otto Rahn was a German archaeologist who was employed by the Nazi organization Ahnenerbe, a branch of of Heinrich Himmler’s SS. Its focus was to prove that Nazis were Aryans and that Aryans were the superior race. Part of that was to prove that Jesus was Aryan, not Jewish. Rahn was the foremost investigator in Himmler’s quest.
The story begins in 33 C.E. in Jerusalem (Israel) as Jesus is carrying his cross on the day of his crucifixion. Along the way, a woman, perhaps Veronica, wipes his brow with her veil. The veil becomes soaked with the blood and sweat of Jesus. His face is imprinted on the veil as well (see the Shroud of Turin). Veronica gave the veil to Mary Magdalene, her friend, who places it in the tomb of Jesus. It then disappeared for nearly 2,000 years until Otto Rahn finds it hidden in a church in Rennes-le-Chateau, in southwestern France in 1937. Otto brings it to Himmler in Wewelsburg Castle where Himmler places it in a secret vault.
Father Michael Dominic, now Prefect of the Secret Vatican Archives, is approached by a young German man, Jacob Rausch who is the grandson of Walter Rausch (name changed for legal reasons according to the author) one of Himmler’s top aides. Jacob relates the story of a relic without naming it. This story sets Michael and his friends on the trail of the veil.
On Michael’s team are Hana Sinclair (a French journalist), Karl Dengler and Lukas Bischoff (members of the Vatican’s Swiss Guards), Baron Armand de Saint-Clair (wealthy Swiss banker and Hana’s grandfather, former French Resistance fighter during WWII) and newcomer to the series, Javier Batista (a police official in Buenos Aires, Argentina with ties to Israel’s Mossad and Interpol). There are others both new to the series and old friends from previous adventures.
Arrayed against Father Michael are Jacob Rausch and his good friend Christof Prager from San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina (home to over 9,000 Nazis and their families). Prager’s grandfather was Erich Prager (name changed for legal reasons) another Himmler aide. The unsavory Cardinal Fabrizio Dante, Michael’s nemesis from earlier books, returns to bedevil the efforts of Michael and his team. Other evildoers both new and old also make appearances.
The story progresses from Jerusalem of 33 C.E to Rennes-le-Chateau and Germany in 1937 to modern day Germany, Switzerland, Vatican and Argentina. There is some factual historical content and a lot of the imagination of the author. In an Afterword, McAvoy tells which is fact and what is fiction (well done!). For readers who like action, there is plenty. If you like character development, enjoy the book. According to the author, there are more stories to come that take the characters on different roads. Personally, I cannot wait to see where this goes. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. If I could, I would give this series more than five stars.
GO! BUY! READ!
Otto Rahn was a German archaeologist who was employed by the Nazi organization Ahnenerbe, a branch of of Heinrich Himmler’s SS. Its focus was to prove that Nazis were Aryans and that Aryans were the superior race. Part of that was to prove that Jesus was Aryan, not Jewish. Rahn was the foremost investigator in Himmler’s quest.
The story begins in 33 C.E. in Jerusalem (Israel) as Jesus is carrying his cross on the day of his crucifixion. Along the way, a woman, perhaps Veronica, wipes his brow with her veil. The veil becomes soaked with the blood and sweat of Jesus. His face is imprinted on the veil as well (see the Shroud of Turin). Veronica gave the veil to Mary Magdalene, her friend, who places it in the tomb of Jesus. It then disappeared for nearly 2,000 years until Otto Rahn finds it hidden in a church in Rennes-le-Chateau, in southwestern France in 1937. Otto brings it to Himmler in Wewelsburg Castle where Himmler places it in a secret vault.
Father Michael Dominic, now Prefect of the Secret Vatican Archives, is approached by a young German man, Jacob Rausch who is the grandson of Walter Rausch (name changed for legal reasons according to the author) one of Himmler’s top aides. Jacob relates the story of a relic without naming it. This story sets Michael and his friends on the trail of the veil.
On Michael’s team are Hana Sinclair (a French journalist), Karl Dengler and Lukas Bischoff (members of the Vatican’s Swiss Guards), Baron Armand de Saint-Clair (wealthy Swiss banker and Hana’s grandfather, former French Resistance fighter during WWII) and newcomer to the series, Javier Batista (a police official in Buenos Aires, Argentina with ties to Israel’s Mossad and Interpol). There are others both new to the series and old friends from previous adventures.
Arrayed against Father Michael are Jacob Rausch and his good friend Christof Prager from San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina (home to over 9,000 Nazis and their families). Prager’s grandfather was Erich Prager (name changed for legal reasons) another Himmler aide. The unsavory Cardinal Fabrizio Dante, Michael’s nemesis from earlier books, returns to bedevil the efforts of Michael and his team. Other evildoers both new and old also make appearances.
The story progresses from Jerusalem of 33 C.E to Rennes-le-Chateau and Germany in 1937 to modern day Germany, Switzerland, Vatican and Argentina. There is some factual historical content and a lot of the imagination of the author. In an Afterword, McAvoy tells which is fact and what is fiction (well done!). For readers who like action, there is plenty. If you like character development, enjoy the book. According to the author, there are more stories to come that take the characters on different roads. Personally, I cannot wait to see where this goes. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. If I could, I would give this series more than five stars.
GO! BUY! READ!
February 18, 2023
This is the third and final entry in the author's 3 book Magdalene series. I have read and enjoyed the two previous entries and was looking forward to being similarly pleased with the last book. Unfortunately this book started off rather slow and disappointing. I was expecting that this book wouldn't get better than a 3 star rating. However, I am not one to abandon a book no matter how it starts or progresses as I have been proven wrong in my initial judgments far too often. My problem with this book was the plot was another hunt for another mythical religious artifact and the hunt involved the same team of good guys and they were opposed by the same villain and his right wing organization associates. This started to read like a hunt for the relic of the month and was appearing more than little trite. You can only go to well so many times without the well running dry and that was what I was afraid of in this book.
My lack of enthusiasm for the story went on for the first 2/3 of the book and while it wasn't a bad story I think much of the suspense was drained away by the use of the same sort of plot and the same characters. I do think the author has the elements for the beginning of a good series but I thought the plots have to be more varied and imaginative and a new villain is needed. The protagonist and his associates are a fine group but such complete dependence on them in all 3 books was too much. The protagonist, Fr. Michael Dominic, needs to meet new friends and his relationship with his friend Hana would be interesting to develop and especially with the introduction of the character Marco. Like I said the series has possibilities and the author's notes at the end leads me to believe that new stories may see this happen as new adventures are promised so let's hope for the best.
As for this book, well I decided to give it 4 stars after all because the last third of the book amped up the suspense and restored my enjoyment in the book and in the series. Not only did the author bring in a good thriller to conclusion but he also wrapped up issues hanging from the previous two books. While the author calls this a series its conclusion made it feel more like a story in three parts. Each book had its own plot but the characters being the same in all three books gave the series a unique unity that was a surprise and ultimately worked. This unity is a good foundation for a continuing series but I think it might be hard to come up with new adventures for a Vatican archivist so I hope the author hasn't painted himself into a corner with this character. Maybe new adventures may be found in the activities of Fr. Dominic's friends instead of in his work. I guess we will have to wait and see. Enjoy.
My lack of enthusiasm for the story went on for the first 2/3 of the book and while it wasn't a bad story I think much of the suspense was drained away by the use of the same sort of plot and the same characters. I do think the author has the elements for the beginning of a good series but I thought the plots have to be more varied and imaginative and a new villain is needed. The protagonist and his associates are a fine group but such complete dependence on them in all 3 books was too much. The protagonist, Fr. Michael Dominic, needs to meet new friends and his relationship with his friend Hana would be interesting to develop and especially with the introduction of the character Marco. Like I said the series has possibilities and the author's notes at the end leads me to believe that new stories may see this happen as new adventures are promised so let's hope for the best.
As for this book, well I decided to give it 4 stars after all because the last third of the book amped up the suspense and restored my enjoyment in the book and in the series. Not only did the author bring in a good thriller to conclusion but he also wrapped up issues hanging from the previous two books. While the author calls this a series its conclusion made it feel more like a story in three parts. Each book had its own plot but the characters being the same in all three books gave the series a unique unity that was a surprise and ultimately worked. This unity is a good foundation for a continuing series but I think it might be hard to come up with new adventures for a Vatican archivist so I hope the author hasn't painted himself into a corner with this character. Maybe new adventures may be found in the activities of Fr. Dominic's friends instead of in his work. I guess we will have to wait and see. Enjoy.
March 7, 2021
PERFECTION!!!
If you want to read a novel that has it all, look no further because Gary McAvoy’s beautifully crafted prose brings the reader front and center into the unfolding of his latest thriller, The Magdalene Veil, a treasured masterpiece of literature you will want to hold in your hands and keep on your bookshelf! The Magdalene Veil, is edgy, complex, emotional, terrifying, gut-wrenching, sad, poignant, smart, and filled with intrigue and mystery!
Gary McAvoy is a writer of extraordinary facility and aptitude. His novels in general are all multi-layered and rife with excruciatingly well-researched historic facts, but in The Magdalene Veil, Mr. McAvoy shows that he has honed the craft of story-telling to new heights! The Veil begins with minute details of the death of Christ, then moves to the Nazis, one of the most heinous, evil, and horrific times in mankind’s history, and culminates in the inevitable probability that there will always be a faction of mankind, the Neo-Nazis, who will corrupt, commit and/or ensure present-day abominations and perversions of scientific advancements in the use of DNA if their nefarious intentions are not brought into the light of day for the rest of mankind to stop. This final blockbuster novel of The Magdalene series is fast paced, exceptionally well-written (and that is saying something about Mr. McAvoy’s ability to pen a novel since he is a writer of superior and superb craftsmanship in this regard), and one that will have the reader unable to set it aside until every, last word on the very last page has been read; and, I don’t care what time in the wee morning hours that may be!
From the start Mr. McAvoy introduces the reader to the ultimate adventure, to find an artifact of the greatest importance – The Veil of Veronica! This is a righteous quest for a treasure beyond value, purportedly containing the face of Christ, comprised from his blood and his sweat as he carried the cross to his death. As the principal characters from this series, F. Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair become involved in this search, Mr. McAvoy tells the tale of how the Nazi’s, more than half a century ago, and Neo-Nazi’s today, engaged in perverted quests for religious objects intended to be used for their supernatural powers, as well as to prove the superiority of the Aryan race.
In The Veil, the Neo-Nazi group called the Ahnenerbe, thought to have been disbanded before the end of World War II, is found to be thriving in Barlioche, Argentina where a large population of ex-Nazis lived after fleeing Europe at the end of the war. Because Argentina did not have extradition agreements with the United States and European countries that were conducting war crime tribunals for atrocities committed by Nazis, this country became their safe haven. Mr. McAvoy’s research informs the reader that Heinrich Himmler, in 1935 established the Ahnenerbe with Herman Wirth, using scientists, archeologists, and historians to locate sacred, religious archeological sites around the world to secure evidence proving that Aryans were a race of superior human beings who descended from Christ. As F. Michael and Hana learn the real purpose of the Ahnernerbe’s search for the Veil of Veronica, their old nemesis, the wicked and devilish Bishop Dante appears to be in the thick of things taking place in the Neo-Nazi haven in Barlioche. F. Michael and Hana learn that the Ahnenerbe intend to extract Christ’s DNA from the Veil of Veronica to breed perfect Aryan children in pregnant women at their hidden clinic.
As always, Mr. McAvoy’s characters are always interesting – some are calculating, evil, treacherous, and smart, while others are brilliant, honorable, determined and kind. And there is no regurgitation of character traits or plotlines from novel to novel, oh no, each and every individual he introduces to the reader is a full-bodied, carefully crafted and unique person, integral to telling the storyline and the evolution of his thrilling plots. It takes a well-honed talent and hours and hours of incredibly intense work to reach such a pinnacle, but Mr. McAvoy has done just that in a monumentally short amount of time.
Without a doubt, The Veil is a thrilling and exciting read, and yet as the horrors and unspeakable atrocities committed by the Nazi’s are recalled within this novel, Mr. McAvoy reminds his readers to never forget the obscene intentions and actions of an entire nation caught up in the terror and fear created by Nazi malevolence and hatred. In reading through the horrific descriptions of the atrocities committed by the Nazi’s, Mr. McAvoy exhibits extreme compassion and sensitivity for the victims and survivors and their families throughout this novel. He does not just present cold hard facts of these crimes and their victims, he broaches each narrative with the utmost respect and solemnity for the agony, tortures and torments endured during the actual crimes themselves, and acknowledges the total alteration these abominations forever imprinted on humanity, all the while apperceiving the enormity of the debt to be paid by mankind for their suffering. This novel demands that we remain vigilant to never allow a repetition because the insidious Neo-Nazi movement is alive today.
If I can sum up my experience reading this novel into one word, it would have to be “perfection!” The Magdalene Veil is THE perfect novel, and Mr. McAvoy should be levitating in the stratosphere with abject joy at this accomplishment!!
If you want to read a novel that has it all, look no further because Gary McAvoy’s beautifully crafted prose brings the reader front and center into the unfolding of his latest thriller, The Magdalene Veil, a treasured masterpiece of literature you will want to hold in your hands and keep on your bookshelf! The Magdalene Veil, is edgy, complex, emotional, terrifying, gut-wrenching, sad, poignant, smart, and filled with intrigue and mystery!
Gary McAvoy is a writer of extraordinary facility and aptitude. His novels in general are all multi-layered and rife with excruciatingly well-researched historic facts, but in The Magdalene Veil, Mr. McAvoy shows that he has honed the craft of story-telling to new heights! The Veil begins with minute details of the death of Christ, then moves to the Nazis, one of the most heinous, evil, and horrific times in mankind’s history, and culminates in the inevitable probability that there will always be a faction of mankind, the Neo-Nazis, who will corrupt, commit and/or ensure present-day abominations and perversions of scientific advancements in the use of DNA if their nefarious intentions are not brought into the light of day for the rest of mankind to stop. This final blockbuster novel of The Magdalene series is fast paced, exceptionally well-written (and that is saying something about Mr. McAvoy’s ability to pen a novel since he is a writer of superior and superb craftsmanship in this regard), and one that will have the reader unable to set it aside until every, last word on the very last page has been read; and, I don’t care what time in the wee morning hours that may be!
From the start Mr. McAvoy introduces the reader to the ultimate adventure, to find an artifact of the greatest importance – The Veil of Veronica! This is a righteous quest for a treasure beyond value, purportedly containing the face of Christ, comprised from his blood and his sweat as he carried the cross to his death. As the principal characters from this series, F. Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair become involved in this search, Mr. McAvoy tells the tale of how the Nazi’s, more than half a century ago, and Neo-Nazi’s today, engaged in perverted quests for religious objects intended to be used for their supernatural powers, as well as to prove the superiority of the Aryan race.
In The Veil, the Neo-Nazi group called the Ahnenerbe, thought to have been disbanded before the end of World War II, is found to be thriving in Barlioche, Argentina where a large population of ex-Nazis lived after fleeing Europe at the end of the war. Because Argentina did not have extradition agreements with the United States and European countries that were conducting war crime tribunals for atrocities committed by Nazis, this country became their safe haven. Mr. McAvoy’s research informs the reader that Heinrich Himmler, in 1935 established the Ahnenerbe with Herman Wirth, using scientists, archeologists, and historians to locate sacred, religious archeological sites around the world to secure evidence proving that Aryans were a race of superior human beings who descended from Christ. As F. Michael and Hana learn the real purpose of the Ahnernerbe’s search for the Veil of Veronica, their old nemesis, the wicked and devilish Bishop Dante appears to be in the thick of things taking place in the Neo-Nazi haven in Barlioche. F. Michael and Hana learn that the Ahnenerbe intend to extract Christ’s DNA from the Veil of Veronica to breed perfect Aryan children in pregnant women at their hidden clinic.
As always, Mr. McAvoy’s characters are always interesting – some are calculating, evil, treacherous, and smart, while others are brilliant, honorable, determined and kind. And there is no regurgitation of character traits or plotlines from novel to novel, oh no, each and every individual he introduces to the reader is a full-bodied, carefully crafted and unique person, integral to telling the storyline and the evolution of his thrilling plots. It takes a well-honed talent and hours and hours of incredibly intense work to reach such a pinnacle, but Mr. McAvoy has done just that in a monumentally short amount of time.
Without a doubt, The Veil is a thrilling and exciting read, and yet as the horrors and unspeakable atrocities committed by the Nazi’s are recalled within this novel, Mr. McAvoy reminds his readers to never forget the obscene intentions and actions of an entire nation caught up in the terror and fear created by Nazi malevolence and hatred. In reading through the horrific descriptions of the atrocities committed by the Nazi’s, Mr. McAvoy exhibits extreme compassion and sensitivity for the victims and survivors and their families throughout this novel. He does not just present cold hard facts of these crimes and their victims, he broaches each narrative with the utmost respect and solemnity for the agony, tortures and torments endured during the actual crimes themselves, and acknowledges the total alteration these abominations forever imprinted on humanity, all the while apperceiving the enormity of the debt to be paid by mankind for their suffering. This novel demands that we remain vigilant to never allow a repetition because the insidious Neo-Nazi movement is alive today.
If I can sum up my experience reading this novel into one word, it would have to be “perfection!” The Magdalene Veil is THE perfect novel, and Mr. McAvoy should be levitating in the stratosphere with abject joy at this accomplishment!!
March 3, 2021
I am so glad I stumbled upon Gary McAvoy’s first book in this series, The Magdalene Deception. Since reviewing that, I have been lucky enough to get early eyes on the following two books. In my review of the first book, I said I liked it better than Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. That opinion has not changed. It is clear that McAvoy has done a great deal of research and it is shown lovingly as he describes locations, items, and history. Of course, there is the nature of the imaginary with these conspiracies - can one really replicate the blood of Christ from a veil? but the story is knit together so well, that one can actually imagine these to be 100% real.
One of my favourite elements of this series is the relationships. Often, when men and women are thrust together in a book the default is that they fall madly in love, whether they should or shouldn’t. I said this of The Magdalene Reliquary, and I’ll say it with The Magdalene Veil, the platonic relationships are stronger than some romantic relationships I’ve seen in books. Of course, anyone with a romantic bone in their body may wish for more romance, but we have that in the delightful Swiss guard lovers, Karl and Lukas. The bonds of friendship surrounding the group of adventurers were clear, uncomplicated, and true. I loved it and I wanted to be their friend too - although I’m certainly not as brave!
While this book may signal the end of the story featuring Michael Dominic, Hana Sinclair, and the rest, there is a glimmer of hope in the last few lines of the book that might be winking at us. Perhaps we haven’t seen the last of the priest, the reporter, and the Swiss guards after all, and if there’s more, I’ll be first in line to read their stories.
One of my favourite elements of this series is the relationships. Often, when men and women are thrust together in a book the default is that they fall madly in love, whether they should or shouldn’t. I said this of The Magdalene Reliquary, and I’ll say it with The Magdalene Veil, the platonic relationships are stronger than some romantic relationships I’ve seen in books. Of course, anyone with a romantic bone in their body may wish for more romance, but we have that in the delightful Swiss guard lovers, Karl and Lukas. The bonds of friendship surrounding the group of adventurers were clear, uncomplicated, and true. I loved it and I wanted to be their friend too - although I’m certainly not as brave!
While this book may signal the end of the story featuring Michael Dominic, Hana Sinclair, and the rest, there is a glimmer of hope in the last few lines of the book that might be winking at us. Perhaps we haven’t seen the last of the priest, the reporter, and the Swiss guards after all, and if there’s more, I’ll be first in line to read their stories.
September 4, 2021
Whew! Just finished ... This third book in the series was suspenseful and full of Roller coaster action.
Anticipate Gary's next novel in the series. Many items were settled and leave the expectation of growth in the story line.
Anticipate Gary's next novel in the series. Many items were settled and leave the expectation of growth in the story line.
July 25, 2022
lots of Action and Twists
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to others. The plot, the characters and the writing were great. Plus the historical background was food fo thought.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to others. The plot, the characters and the writing were great. Plus the historical background was food fo thought.
April 13, 2021
The Easter break is over, and so too is my reading of Gary McAvoy’s hugely entertaining Magdalene trilogy, which started with The Magdalene Deception, continued with The Magdalene Reliquary, and now concludes with The Magdalene Veil. During the course of these three fast-moving and engaging adventures, we follow the same trail of breadcrumbs scattered throughout history that the trilogy’s main characters do. Whether or not they lead you to the same crisis of faith Fr Michael Dominic faces is beside the point; the thrill is in the journey.
In each of the preceding novels I was able to relate them to some other book or movie that had captured my interest in the past. With The Magdalene Veil, my thoughts turned to one of each: Where Eagle’s Dare (1968), the preposterously entertaining WWII romp with Richard Burton and a brilliantly sardonic Clint Eastwood who, if they weren’t killing Nazis, were calling Danny Boy on the radio; and Ira Levin’s conspiracy thriller The Boys From Brazil, also a movie, starring the ultimate in odd couples, Gregory Peck and Laurence Olivier, Oscar winners both. The Magdalene Veil takes concepts from both movies and books and runs with them in a couple of very surprising ways.
Much has been made of the Third Reich’s interest in the occult. Anyone who has seen Raiders of the Lost Ark might be aware that Hitler was indeed a “nut on the subject”. So much so, he and his evil goons set up an organisation called the Ahnenerbe, tasked with justifying their hatred of the Jewish race by delving deep into Aryan ancestry and uncovering shared DNA with the biblical Jesus. Heinrich Himmler allegedly finds the proof he needs, but before he can escape to Argentina with the relic, he is caught by Allied forces and kills himself. Fast forward to the present day, and Fr Dominic and his friend, journalist Hana Sinclair, are approached by a man who claims he knows, via a diary his father kept, where this relic can be found. Of course the path to glory rarely runs smooth, especially when exiled Nazis are lurking around every corner.
The bulk of the action this time around takes place in Bariloche, a German settlement in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The South American country is also the place where the former Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Dante, has been exiled to. He finds fellow conspirators in the burgeoning neo-Nazi community (as you naturally would if you were fake-Catholic, I guess). Eventually he will have to cross swords with the people who put him there.
All of the elements that made the first two books in the series enjoyable to me are present here. The two Swiss Guards, Karl and Lukas, are in their element, using the skills they inherited from their training to aid in rescue and recovery missions. I’d have these two on my team of bodyguards any day of the week, if such a service was ever needed. Hana’s grandfather always has a private jet lying idle, which comes in handy for fast, frictionless international travel. And there’s always God, who will take the side of the righteous when things don’t go according to human planning. He’s normally reliable that way.
Gary McAvoy utilises his own skill-set perfectly well, too, mixing historical fact with historical fiction. He very helpfully links his research at the end of the novel, and all he wants is for readers to be entertained and to want to read more about the secret history of the Third Reich. When the Nazis get what they deserve, it’s hard not to pump your fist with victory. Because who doesn’t want to see Nazis defeated all day every day?
I enjoyed reading these books and I would recomment them to fans of Robert Ludlum and Dan Brown. My thanks to Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of The Magdalene Veil in exchange for an honest review. I loved it. Honestly.
In each of the preceding novels I was able to relate them to some other book or movie that had captured my interest in the past. With The Magdalene Veil, my thoughts turned to one of each: Where Eagle’s Dare (1968), the preposterously entertaining WWII romp with Richard Burton and a brilliantly sardonic Clint Eastwood who, if they weren’t killing Nazis, were calling Danny Boy on the radio; and Ira Levin’s conspiracy thriller The Boys From Brazil, also a movie, starring the ultimate in odd couples, Gregory Peck and Laurence Olivier, Oscar winners both. The Magdalene Veil takes concepts from both movies and books and runs with them in a couple of very surprising ways.
Much has been made of the Third Reich’s interest in the occult. Anyone who has seen Raiders of the Lost Ark might be aware that Hitler was indeed a “nut on the subject”. So much so, he and his evil goons set up an organisation called the Ahnenerbe, tasked with justifying their hatred of the Jewish race by delving deep into Aryan ancestry and uncovering shared DNA with the biblical Jesus. Heinrich Himmler allegedly finds the proof he needs, but before he can escape to Argentina with the relic, he is caught by Allied forces and kills himself. Fast forward to the present day, and Fr Dominic and his friend, journalist Hana Sinclair, are approached by a man who claims he knows, via a diary his father kept, where this relic can be found. Of course the path to glory rarely runs smooth, especially when exiled Nazis are lurking around every corner.
The bulk of the action this time around takes place in Bariloche, a German settlement in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The South American country is also the place where the former Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Dante, has been exiled to. He finds fellow conspirators in the burgeoning neo-Nazi community (as you naturally would if you were fake-Catholic, I guess). Eventually he will have to cross swords with the people who put him there.
All of the elements that made the first two books in the series enjoyable to me are present here. The two Swiss Guards, Karl and Lukas, are in their element, using the skills they inherited from their training to aid in rescue and recovery missions. I’d have these two on my team of bodyguards any day of the week, if such a service was ever needed. Hana’s grandfather always has a private jet lying idle, which comes in handy for fast, frictionless international travel. And there’s always God, who will take the side of the righteous when things don’t go according to human planning. He’s normally reliable that way.
Gary McAvoy utilises his own skill-set perfectly well, too, mixing historical fact with historical fiction. He very helpfully links his research at the end of the novel, and all he wants is for readers to be entertained and to want to read more about the secret history of the Third Reich. When the Nazis get what they deserve, it’s hard not to pump your fist with victory. Because who doesn’t want to see Nazis defeated all day every day?
I enjoyed reading these books and I would recomment them to fans of Robert Ludlum and Dan Brown. My thanks to Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of The Magdalene Veil in exchange for an honest review. I loved it. Honestly.
January 5, 2023
Friendship, Religious Artifacts, the Vatican and Nazis
Father Dominick and friends are pulled into an adventure involving a well known religious artifact thought to have been in the possession of a notorious Nazi SS officer. They must decipher a riddle that will reveal its hiding place, defeat those who would make evil use of it, and deliver it to the safe keeping of the Vatican.
The reader will find the friendships depicted to be fierce and heartwarming. McAvoy uses facts and supposition to spin a tale of suspense in which the Roman Catholic church's interaction with the Nazi government is held up to scrutiny. The result is a fun and thought provoking read.
Father Dominick and friends are pulled into an adventure involving a well known religious artifact thought to have been in the possession of a notorious Nazi SS officer. They must decipher a riddle that will reveal its hiding place, defeat those who would make evil use of it, and deliver it to the safe keeping of the Vatican.
The reader will find the friendships depicted to be fierce and heartwarming. McAvoy uses facts and supposition to spin a tale of suspense in which the Roman Catholic church's interaction with the Nazi government is held up to scrutiny. The result is a fun and thought provoking read.
January 5, 2023
This was Outstanding
I just finished book 3 of this remarkable series and it was remarkable. Suspenseful and exciting it kept me on the edge of my chair. I just about stayed up all night reading this book because I couldn't put it down.
I just finished book 3 of this remarkable series and it was remarkable. Suspenseful and exciting it kept me on the edge of my chair. I just about stayed up all night reading this book because I couldn't put it down.
October 5, 2024
An old-World War II diary filled with cryptic clues launches two friends on an adventure around the world to find the holy relic reputed to bear the image of Christ on it. From Rome to Argentina, and more Father Dominic and his team race against an old enemy and his supporters who want to return a terrible evil to the world. Another thrilling and intriguing read! I look forward to more adventures with these characters I've grown attached to.
November 15, 2022
As with the previous 2 books of The Magdalene Chronicles, Mr. McAvoy has written a book which is packed with twists and turns, action, religion, descriptiveness of Rome and characters within the story and given us a book that can't be put down once you start it because you need to know what happens in the end.
I will be starting the Vivaldi Cipher next and am sure it will be just as good as the 3 previous books I've read.
Keep writing these types of books Mr. McAvoy!
I will be starting the Vivaldi Cipher next and am sure it will be just as good as the 3 previous books I've read.
Keep writing these types of books Mr. McAvoy!
October 5, 2022
Amazingly Intricate and Fast Moving
Absolutely a wonderful series. Character development is built with intent. The series of events and emotions that arise makes the stories in the series seem real. Well done!
Absolutely a wonderful series. Character development is built with intent. The series of events and emotions that arise makes the stories in the series seem real. Well done!
October 16, 2022
This is the third and final Book in the Magdalene Chronicles
This was for me one of the best book's I have read of both series . It was suspenseful intriguing a real nail biter I was on edge the whole time .
This was for me one of the best book's I have read of both series . It was suspenseful intriguing a real nail biter I was on edge the whole time .
October 23, 2022
Great ending
Great ending to this series. Both old & new characters follow another interesting storyline. Few things come as a surprise though, may be misunderstood by overzealous catholics.
Great ending to this series. Both old & new characters follow another interesting storyline. Few things come as a surprise though, may be misunderstood by overzealous catholics.
December 2, 2022
Another masterpiece by Gary McAvoy!
The masterful way the author weaves historical fact and fiction together leaves the reader wondering what’s fiction and what’s fact. He paints an amazing picture with his words, creating a book that is impossible to put down!
The masterful way the author weaves historical fact and fiction together leaves the reader wondering what’s fiction and what’s fact. He paints an amazing picture with his words, creating a book that is impossible to put down!
October 20, 2024
All three books in this series followed the same theme, so if you read the first one, you know what’s coming in the other two. Despite the duplication, I found this series interesting for the knowledge and history McAvoy shares about Rome, the Vatican and the Catholic Church.
March 1, 2022
Another great romp with Dominic and Hana et al and the sometimes seedy veil of Catholic pompous deportment. Great job! Love the ‘fact vs fiction’ at the end.
November 7, 2022
Wonderful entry in a superb series! Looking forward to more of the authors work.
November 16, 2022
Awesome story
This is a great read, moves along quickly, and is pleasant to the intellect with interesting history that connects the story in a very logical way.
This is a great read, moves along quickly, and is pleasant to the intellect with interesting history that connects the story in a very logical way.
April 13, 2021
Thank you Mr. McAvoy for the opportunity to read The Magdalene Veil as an ARC. I'm a devoted fan whose loved the previous two books in this series and have waited patiently for this one. With that said, I was not disappointed. Quite the opposite! I was enthralled and by the end of chapter one knew this was going to be like the first two, completely unputdownable!
Once again we find Father Michael Dominic and his close friend and fellow sleuth journalist Hana Sinclair, who hear about a possible new case, something right up their alley. A Nazi journal with details about a religious relic and it's hiding place. With their past experience with investigating Nazi crimes they're all set to jump in and investigate this new lead. The relic mentioned in the journal is the supposed cloth Jesus used to wipe his face prior to being crucified. The cloth is reported to have his exact image transposed onto it. This would be a significant find in the religious world and Father Dominic and Hana are on the hunt for the journal and the "veil."
As in the other two books this is a good versus evil tale, but oh so much more. It's a cat and mouse chase from beginning to end. There are heroes and villains, the innocent and guilty. You will not be able to stop reading this book! Just when you think it's all been settled and the veil is secure and on it's way to safety something happens and the story changes completely! Mr. McAvoy is a master at the back and forth of a good mystery. I can't remember when I've been taken on such a ride than when reading his books. They are exciting, the characters have become like friends, for the most part and the relationship between Father Dominic and Hana is interesting. I feel and notice a bit of romantic/sexual tension, yes I know he's a priest, but he's also a man. As we learned in book one he tends to struggle at times with his faith. He's a real person with real concerns and temptations. For this non believer it's what makes me come back for more and more of this series. It is not a book about god or even religion, it just happens to be that the main character is a priest and works at the Vatican.
Personally, I could continue on with this series for years. It's that great! I absolutely love the writing, the good versus evil aspect and the characters of Father Dominic and Hana are superb. This book, as well as the other two will now go on my shelf of favorites. It's not a big shelf and only houses those books that leave a mark on me somehow, with this series it's the magnificent writing and the thrill of the hunt that I'll remember. However, I can't leave out the very intriguing sexual tensions of the priest and the journalist, I am human after all! LOL Happy Reading!
Once again we find Father Michael Dominic and his close friend and fellow sleuth journalist Hana Sinclair, who hear about a possible new case, something right up their alley. A Nazi journal with details about a religious relic and it's hiding place. With their past experience with investigating Nazi crimes they're all set to jump in and investigate this new lead. The relic mentioned in the journal is the supposed cloth Jesus used to wipe his face prior to being crucified. The cloth is reported to have his exact image transposed onto it. This would be a significant find in the religious world and Father Dominic and Hana are on the hunt for the journal and the "veil."
As in the other two books this is a good versus evil tale, but oh so much more. It's a cat and mouse chase from beginning to end. There are heroes and villains, the innocent and guilty. You will not be able to stop reading this book! Just when you think it's all been settled and the veil is secure and on it's way to safety something happens and the story changes completely! Mr. McAvoy is a master at the back and forth of a good mystery. I can't remember when I've been taken on such a ride than when reading his books. They are exciting, the characters have become like friends, for the most part and the relationship between Father Dominic and Hana is interesting. I feel and notice a bit of romantic/sexual tension, yes I know he's a priest, but he's also a man. As we learned in book one he tends to struggle at times with his faith. He's a real person with real concerns and temptations. For this non believer it's what makes me come back for more and more of this series. It is not a book about god or even religion, it just happens to be that the main character is a priest and works at the Vatican.
Personally, I could continue on with this series for years. It's that great! I absolutely love the writing, the good versus evil aspect and the characters of Father Dominic and Hana are superb. This book, as well as the other two will now go on my shelf of favorites. It's not a big shelf and only houses those books that leave a mark on me somehow, with this series it's the magnificent writing and the thrill of the hunt that I'll remember. However, I can't leave out the very intriguing sexual tensions of the priest and the journalist, I am human after all! LOL Happy Reading!
March 21, 2021
A good instalment to Gary’s Magdalene Chronicles, which takes a little while to gain traction, but when it does, The Magdalene Veil establishes itself well within the series. If he were to choose to leave it as a trilogy, this episode would present a very worthy and satisfying conclusion, but I suspect there is much more to come from this intriguing group of characters, as well as the genuinely alluring arch villains. I’ve been fortunate enough to review the whole series so far, and I will say that is accomplished work indeed, which will definitely be of interest to those who like mystery suspense books, particularly those with a theological theme.
The puzzle element of this book (which is Gary’s trademark, Dan Brown style) is perhaps a little thinner in this instalment, which takes rather a more formulaic thriller approach; with kidnapping, murderous antagonists and military action it is tiny bit more gung-ho at times, but it is done well, and a very welcome ingredient at this stage of the series. Along with the theological credentials of Robert Langdon, The Magdalene Veil puts as its focal point an artefact which would intrigue Indiana Jones himself, not to mention his traditional Nazi occultist enemies, who feature heavily in the storyline – the action, though, when it comes, is perhaps a touch more authentic and Clancy-like. I did feel that maybe plotlines which were carried across, and references to events and characters of previous books, weren’t indulged as much as they could have been, but I suspect by now that Gary is slowly building a loyal following – I do hope so; his quality writing, theological research and knowledge, and his attention to detail, regarding both the fictional and factual elements of his work, deserve no less. This author is a good professional and even better value. If you like intelligent, cosy mystery, with a touch of action and intrigue, I highly recommend giving the Magdalene series a go.
The puzzle element of this book (which is Gary’s trademark, Dan Brown style) is perhaps a little thinner in this instalment, which takes rather a more formulaic thriller approach; with kidnapping, murderous antagonists and military action it is tiny bit more gung-ho at times, but it is done well, and a very welcome ingredient at this stage of the series. Along with the theological credentials of Robert Langdon, The Magdalene Veil puts as its focal point an artefact which would intrigue Indiana Jones himself, not to mention his traditional Nazi occultist enemies, who feature heavily in the storyline – the action, though, when it comes, is perhaps a touch more authentic and Clancy-like. I did feel that maybe plotlines which were carried across, and references to events and characters of previous books, weren’t indulged as much as they could have been, but I suspect by now that Gary is slowly building a loyal following – I do hope so; his quality writing, theological research and knowledge, and his attention to detail, regarding both the fictional and factual elements of his work, deserve no less. This author is a good professional and even better value. If you like intelligent, cosy mystery, with a touch of action and intrigue, I highly recommend giving the Magdalene series a go.
April 11, 2021
McAvoy is a master at taking actual historical events, real historical people, legends and traditions, and using them all to create exciting and informative plots. This novel revolves around the legend of Veronica's veil, a veil said to be used to wipe the blood and sweat from Jesus' face as he carried his cross.
McAvoy takes that legend and combines it with Heinrich Himmler's obsession of obtaining valuable archaeological artifacts, including religious relics. A contemporary neo-Nazi group in Argentina is determined to carry out the original Nazi plan of developing a pure Aryan race, using the ancient relic. A Jesuit priest and a journalist are just as determined to deliver the relic to the Vatican.
I really enjoyed this action packed novel. McAvoy has crafted a realistic plot that is full of historical and contemporary details. A great deal of research lays the foundation for the narrative. McAvoy provides amazing descriptions of the settings and does very well with character development. His writing style is captivating. That writing style and the extensive research and attention to detail make this novel engaging as well as informative.
I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a plot based on actual events and people, then projecting them to possible contemporary events. The neo-Nazi connection is very timely considering recent political turmoil. I really like McAvoy's Author's Note where he informs us what is history and what is fiction.
This is the third in a series but reads rather well on its own. I'm sure there will be a sequel and I'll be looking for it.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.
McAvoy takes that legend and combines it with Heinrich Himmler's obsession of obtaining valuable archaeological artifacts, including religious relics. A contemporary neo-Nazi group in Argentina is determined to carry out the original Nazi plan of developing a pure Aryan race, using the ancient relic. A Jesuit priest and a journalist are just as determined to deliver the relic to the Vatican.
I really enjoyed this action packed novel. McAvoy has crafted a realistic plot that is full of historical and contemporary details. A great deal of research lays the foundation for the narrative. McAvoy provides amazing descriptions of the settings and does very well with character development. His writing style is captivating. That writing style and the extensive research and attention to detail make this novel engaging as well as informative.
I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a plot based on actual events and people, then projecting them to possible contemporary events. The neo-Nazi connection is very timely considering recent political turmoil. I really like McAvoy's Author's Note where he informs us what is history and what is fiction.
This is the third in a series but reads rather well on its own. I'm sure there will be a sequel and I'll be looking for it.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 22, 2021
This book is quite an education. Though a fiction, the author does an extraordinary job of research and artfully combines that research with a vivid imagination to create an intriguing world.
This is the second book I've read by this author and I've learned the hard way that I need to schedule a day or two with no obligations because I will devour the book with as few interruptions as possible.
That said, I must also say the book has its odd devices, a journalist who comes from an enormously wealthy family provided luxurious accomodations and private airplanes as well as important connections in various countries to make the search for antiquities for the Vatican's secret archives fictionally possible. There are some gypsy connections that also come in handy.
I suspect there will be more books with the same main characters and I will set aside appropriate time to slurp those books as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second book I've read by this author and I've learned the hard way that I need to schedule a day or two with no obligations because I will devour the book with as few interruptions as possible.
That said, I must also say the book has its odd devices, a journalist who comes from an enormously wealthy family provided luxurious accomodations and private airplanes as well as important connections in various countries to make the search for antiquities for the Vatican's secret archives fictionally possible. There are some gypsy connections that also come in handy.
I suspect there will be more books with the same main characters and I will set aside appropriate time to slurp those books as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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April 22, 2021This is the second book by Gary McAvoy that I have received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book is part of a series but can stand alone. The author provides enough background that the new reader doesn't get lost. It is also helpful for the reader who forgets who some characters are in a previous book.
Father Michael Dominic is a complicated person. I liked him from the start. His partner in "crime" Hanna Sinclair has depths to her personality. They truly complement each other.
I am not going to write a book report. I just want to let others know this is a good book that will not let you put it down nor let you down.
The book is part of a series but can stand alone. The author provides enough background that the new reader doesn't get lost. It is also helpful for the reader who forgets who some characters are in a previous book.
Father Michael Dominic is a complicated person. I liked him from the start. His partner in "crime" Hanna Sinclair has depths to her personality. They truly complement each other.
I am not going to write a book report. I just want to let others know this is a good book that will not let you put it down nor let you down.
May 3, 2021
I couldn´t put the book down, the story is so engrossing and compelling that you just want to solve the puzzle and learn the end! And of all things related to Christianity a story involving Hitler´s disciples and the Magdalene´s veil is breathtaking! Great plot, easy reading, really believable fiction situations created around real facts kept me entertained and "incomunicado" for a few hours. Loved reading this story and looking forward to reading the next bok in the series. One of the best books I read this year !
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2021
This is the third in the series and the third I’ve read. Absolutely loving the series. The combination of fact and fiction, action, travel, and this particular set of characters gets better as it goes along. Anything to do with the mysterious realms of the Vatican and Mary Magdalen in particular, will always grab my attention. I love that the author has given an explanation at the end of the book about which parts of the story are fact and where he has wound the fiction around those facts. Very informative and very clever storytelling. Recommended reading. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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