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Reincarnationist #3
The Hypnotist
Haunted by his inability to stop the murder of a beautiful young painter twenty years ago, Lucian Glass keeps his demons at bay through his fascinating work with the FBI's Art Crime Team. Investigating a crazed collector who's begun destroying prized masterworks, Glass is thrust into a bizarre hostage negotiation that takes him undercover at the Phoenix Foundation—dedicated to the science of past-life study. There, to maintain his cover, he submits to the treatment of a hypnotist.
Under hypnosis, Glass travels from ancient Greece to nineteenth-century Persia, while the case takes him from New York to Paris and the movie while the case takes him from New York to Paris and the movie capital of the world. These journeys will change his very understanding of reality, lead him to question his own sanity and land him at the center of perhaps the most audacious art heist in history: a fifteen-hundred-year-old sculpture the nation of Iran will do anything to recover.
Under hypnosis, Glass travels from ancient Greece to nineteenth-century Persia, while the case takes him from New York to Paris and the movie while the case takes him from New York to Paris and the movie capital of the world. These journeys will change his very understanding of reality, lead him to question his own sanity and land him at the center of perhaps the most audacious art heist in history: a fifteen-hundred-year-old sculpture the nation of Iran will do anything to recover.
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
58 people are currently reading
2181 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Rose
89 books2,291 followersNew York Times Bestseller, M.J. Rose grew up in New York City mostly in the labyrinthine galleries of the Metropolitan Museum, the dark tunnels and lush gardens of Central Park and reading her mother's favorite books before she was allowed. She believes mystery and magic are all around us but we are too often too busy to notice... books that exaggerate mystery and magic draw attention to it and remind us to look for it and revel in it.
Her most recent novel, The Last Tiara, will be published Feb 2, 2021
Rose's work has appeared in many magazines including Oprah Magazine and she has been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, WSJ, Time, USA Today and on the Today Show, and NPR radio. Rose graduated from Syracuse University, spent the '80s in advertising, has a commercial in the Museum of Modern Art in NYC and since 2005 has run the first marketing company for authors - Authorbuzz.com
The television series PAST LIFE, was based on Rose's novels in the Reincarnationist series. She is one of the founding board members of International Thriller Writers and currently serves, with Lee Child, as the organization's co-president..
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
May 1, 2010
A priceless sculpture that hides an ancient secret; an FBI investigator haunted by the past; and a terrorist plot involving the theft of magnificent works of art all combine to create THE HYPNOTIST, the unputdownable thriller and third entry in M.J.Rose's superb Reincarnationist series (The Reincarnationist and The Memorist).
No author currently writing in the suspense/thriller category does quite what M.J. Rose does; underpinning her novels is the haunting premise that all of us have past lives that connect us to the present, and within this framework she's conjured a high-stakes world of treacherous business dealings, international intrigue, and the often lethal search for the elusive Memory Tools - objects that can assist people to access their pasts and which, if found and harnessed, could provide their owner with unimaginable power. At the center of this web is Dr Malachi Samuels of the Phoenix Foundation, a gifted yet amoral reincarnation expert who allegedly will stop at nothing to possess the Memory Tools.
These entwined themes are spun throughout the series; however, each novel can be enjoyed on its own merits and The Hypnotist is no exception. When Lucian Glass, FBI criminal art investigator, is called in by the Metropolitan Museum in New York City to investigate the horrific mutilation of a stolen painting, he is plunged into a search for the man who, years ago, destroyed his youth and aspiring career as an artist. His investigation leads him back into the elegant, dangerous milieu of the Phoenix Foundation, where a young girl is being treated for nightmarish visions, and the presence of a mysterious woman who might hold the key to his quest. As Lucian begins to uncover a plot centered around a millennial-old sculpture that has surfaced after years of neglect, he finds himself caught up in an intricately linked conspiracy of art smuggling, terrorism, and the race to claim a coveted Memory Tool.
The Hypnotist stands out from the other entries in the series for its lyricism and the timely question: Who truly owns art? In this novel, which is replete with Ms Rose's trademark moments of breathtaking suspense and secrets-within-secrets, Rose has gone deeper into her mythology, detailing the subtle ways in which senseless tragedy shifts and defines us, and the hallowed effect that art exerts on our beings. While her previous novels have all featured lost souls seeking redemption, in The Hypnotist something of Rose's own complex soul comes into display, and it is a fascinating glimpse into a writer who, with this novel, has both matured and exceeded the very high expectations she has set for herself and her readers.
No author currently writing in the suspense/thriller category does quite what M.J. Rose does; underpinning her novels is the haunting premise that all of us have past lives that connect us to the present, and within this framework she's conjured a high-stakes world of treacherous business dealings, international intrigue, and the often lethal search for the elusive Memory Tools - objects that can assist people to access their pasts and which, if found and harnessed, could provide their owner with unimaginable power. At the center of this web is Dr Malachi Samuels of the Phoenix Foundation, a gifted yet amoral reincarnation expert who allegedly will stop at nothing to possess the Memory Tools.
These entwined themes are spun throughout the series; however, each novel can be enjoyed on its own merits and The Hypnotist is no exception. When Lucian Glass, FBI criminal art investigator, is called in by the Metropolitan Museum in New York City to investigate the horrific mutilation of a stolen painting, he is plunged into a search for the man who, years ago, destroyed his youth and aspiring career as an artist. His investigation leads him back into the elegant, dangerous milieu of the Phoenix Foundation, where a young girl is being treated for nightmarish visions, and the presence of a mysterious woman who might hold the key to his quest. As Lucian begins to uncover a plot centered around a millennial-old sculpture that has surfaced after years of neglect, he finds himself caught up in an intricately linked conspiracy of art smuggling, terrorism, and the race to claim a coveted Memory Tool.
The Hypnotist stands out from the other entries in the series for its lyricism and the timely question: Who truly owns art? In this novel, which is replete with Ms Rose's trademark moments of breathtaking suspense and secrets-within-secrets, Rose has gone deeper into her mythology, detailing the subtle ways in which senseless tragedy shifts and defines us, and the hallowed effect that art exerts on our beings. While her previous novels have all featured lost souls seeking redemption, in The Hypnotist something of Rose's own complex soul comes into display, and it is a fascinating glimpse into a writer who, with this novel, has both matured and exceeded the very high expectations she has set for herself and her readers.
January 23, 2018
True to the author's style, this third installment in the Reincarnationist series keeps her reader off balance with multiple subplots that have seemingly nothing but everything to do with the story. In this case there is an FBI agent haunted by nightmares and a past murder, a bizarre art collector and an ancient statue that holds the key to the much sought after "memory tools". Along with Malachi Samuels, the tools are the common thread to all the books.
Given all the action, it's puzzling to me my indifference to this book. It was difficult to stick with this book, and it took discipline for me to finish before my library due date. I can only say it just didn't do it for me this time.
Any of these books do fine as stand alone reads if series just aren't your thing.
Given all the action, it's puzzling to me my indifference to this book. It was difficult to stick with this book, and it took discipline for me to finish before my library due date. I can only say it just didn't do it for me this time.
Any of these books do fine as stand alone reads if series just aren't your thing.
Read
October 18, 2011I broke my own personal record with this winner--couldn't even get through disc 1. I grabbed this one off the library shelf by accident, confusing it with "The Hypnotist" by Lars Kepler. I was bummed when I realized my mistake but figured I'd give it a shot anyway. When the author introduced the first two characters, "Lucien" and "Solange," I knew this wasn't going to happen. Total barf-fest.
If my short attention span and book snobbery has prevented me from realizing a masterpiece, then by all means, someone let me know. In the meantime, this book is heading back to the library for some other unfortunate soul to discover.
If my short attention span and book snobbery has prevented me from realizing a masterpiece, then by all means, someone let me know. In the meantime, this book is heading back to the library for some other unfortunate soul to discover.
January 4, 2017
I definitely enjoyed this book in the series the most so far. It felt more real to me than the others. That is a very subjective statement I am aware, but it's the best way to describe it.
November 12, 2017
rather 3.5 but an excellent plot - one feeble character = the girl - well, can't win them all
June 30, 2011
http://www.rantingdragon.com/the-hypn...
The Hyponist is a genre-bending thriller by established author M. J. Rose. Although it’s third in The Reincarnationist series, The Hypnotist works perfectly as a standalone despite some recurring characters. FBI special agent Lucian Glass is still in pursuit of Malachai Samuels, a man criminally committed to acquiring a list of ancient Memory Tools that reputedly give a person the power to learn of his or her past lives. A list of those tools could be hidden in a statue of Hypnos, currently held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and undergoing a dangerous, international dispute of ownership. But more than just a tale of high stakes art theft, The Hypnotist is also about Lucian’s own emotional journey. It turns out that what’s happening in the present day may have all too much to do with what’s happened in the past.
Tightly plotted and exciting
You’ll find no fluff in The Hypnotist. Rose switches between different characters and centuries masterfully, and her writing is lean and straight to the point. At first the changing cast of characters confused me, but soon I was swept up into the many energetic, intricately connected storylines. Reincarnation provides a very handy tool for exploring vastly different settings and characters all in one book – you’ll see a little of everything in here.
Rose’s knowledge of fine art was also a pleasure to encounter. The politics behind conflicting claims of ownership was fascinating, and though I’m no expert, Rose at least gave the appearance of being authoritative in her explanations. Detailed, real locations like the Metropolitan Museum of Art gave the less plausible scenes some realism, and I had as much fun learning about art and its conservation as I did following the twists and turns of the plot.
One weak character
At the centre of The Hypnotist is an uneasy romance between Lucian and Emeline. Some backstory: when Lucian was a young man, he was badly injured and his girlfriend at the time, Solange, was murdered in an art theft that wouldn’t have happened if Lucian had only arrived on time for their dinner date. Ever since, Lucian’s memory of Solange has filled him with guilt and prevented him from finding a real, adult relationship.
Enter Solange’s cousin, Emeline.
Does Emeline possess Solange’s soul, reincarnated? Similarities between the women seem to exceed mere coincidence, but guilt-ridden Lucian doesn’t want to believe he has a second chance to atone for his past. Romantic tension predictably abounds between Lucian and Emeline – but somewhere in the is-this-reincarnation-or-not mystery, Emeline loses any sense of individuality or even personality. She doesn’t act like a reincarnation of Solange’s soul (if, in fact, that’s what she is). Instead, Emeline is more like Lucian’s idealized, teenage memory of Solange: perfect, hazy, insubstantial.
The other characters, happily, are much more engaging and unique.
Not quite fantasy
Many people believe in reincarnation, and so I hesitate to call reincarnation the unreal element that makes this novel ‘fantasy,’ but apart from reincarnation, there really isn’t anything fantastic – in the magical sense – about this book. The Hypnotist and its characters treat reincarnation in such a scientific, matter-of-fact way that the novel still doesn’t feel like a fantasy even if you do think that reincarnation is supernatural, magical and unrealistic. The Hypnotist is definitely speculative fiction, but that’s about as close to fantasy as this book gets.
Why should you read this book?
The Hypnotist is a great book: exciting; full of plausible, complex characters (Emeline is the only exception); and a lot of excellent details to make the plot feel believable. But to call The Hypnotist a fantasy would be unfair and inaccurate. I’d call this a modern-day, romantic thriller with a “what if” hook: what if reincarnation played a significant role in individuals’ lives? It’s a good book, but a departure from RD’s standard fare. Just keep that in mind if you buy it.
The Hyponist is a genre-bending thriller by established author M. J. Rose. Although it’s third in The Reincarnationist series, The Hypnotist works perfectly as a standalone despite some recurring characters. FBI special agent Lucian Glass is still in pursuit of Malachai Samuels, a man criminally committed to acquiring a list of ancient Memory Tools that reputedly give a person the power to learn of his or her past lives. A list of those tools could be hidden in a statue of Hypnos, currently held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and undergoing a dangerous, international dispute of ownership. But more than just a tale of high stakes art theft, The Hypnotist is also about Lucian’s own emotional journey. It turns out that what’s happening in the present day may have all too much to do with what’s happened in the past.
Tightly plotted and exciting
You’ll find no fluff in The Hypnotist. Rose switches between different characters and centuries masterfully, and her writing is lean and straight to the point. At first the changing cast of characters confused me, but soon I was swept up into the many energetic, intricately connected storylines. Reincarnation provides a very handy tool for exploring vastly different settings and characters all in one book – you’ll see a little of everything in here.
Rose’s knowledge of fine art was also a pleasure to encounter. The politics behind conflicting claims of ownership was fascinating, and though I’m no expert, Rose at least gave the appearance of being authoritative in her explanations. Detailed, real locations like the Metropolitan Museum of Art gave the less plausible scenes some realism, and I had as much fun learning about art and its conservation as I did following the twists and turns of the plot.
One weak character
At the centre of The Hypnotist is an uneasy romance between Lucian and Emeline. Some backstory: when Lucian was a young man, he was badly injured and his girlfriend at the time, Solange, was murdered in an art theft that wouldn’t have happened if Lucian had only arrived on time for their dinner date. Ever since, Lucian’s memory of Solange has filled him with guilt and prevented him from finding a real, adult relationship.
Enter Solange’s cousin, Emeline.
Does Emeline possess Solange’s soul, reincarnated? Similarities between the women seem to exceed mere coincidence, but guilt-ridden Lucian doesn’t want to believe he has a second chance to atone for his past. Romantic tension predictably abounds between Lucian and Emeline – but somewhere in the is-this-reincarnation-or-not mystery, Emeline loses any sense of individuality or even personality. She doesn’t act like a reincarnation of Solange’s soul (if, in fact, that’s what she is). Instead, Emeline is more like Lucian’s idealized, teenage memory of Solange: perfect, hazy, insubstantial.
The other characters, happily, are much more engaging and unique.
Not quite fantasy
Many people believe in reincarnation, and so I hesitate to call reincarnation the unreal element that makes this novel ‘fantasy,’ but apart from reincarnation, there really isn’t anything fantastic – in the magical sense – about this book. The Hypnotist and its characters treat reincarnation in such a scientific, matter-of-fact way that the novel still doesn’t feel like a fantasy even if you do think that reincarnation is supernatural, magical and unrealistic. The Hypnotist is definitely speculative fiction, but that’s about as close to fantasy as this book gets.
Why should you read this book?
The Hypnotist is a great book: exciting; full of plausible, complex characters (Emeline is the only exception); and a lot of excellent details to make the plot feel believable. But to call The Hypnotist a fantasy would be unfair and inaccurate. I’d call this a modern-day, romantic thriller with a “what if” hook: what if reincarnation played a significant role in individuals’ lives? It’s a good book, but a departure from RD’s standard fare. Just keep that in mind if you buy it.
November 25, 2015
This book was incredibly good--there is suspense and mystery, history and romance, all blended and paced perfectly. Just as Book 2 used music as a central theme, this book uses visual art, specifically painting and sculpture. Just as in Book 2, I love the historical details. (The author explains at the end what is fact and what is fiction, for those who have not yet read the book.) Add to this rich mix the subject of reincarnation, and you have a powerful, fascinating story. You don't have to believe in reincarnation to enjoy it; you can think of it as a "paranormal" element, like time-travel.
I find it exciting, though, that there is an author who dares take on the taboo topic of reincarnation. (Taboo in Christianity, but not in the Jewish Kabbalah.) Many Christians believe that reincarnation isn't real because 'there is no mention of it in the Bible'. That's what we've been taught anyway, in the mainstream Christian Church. But the more I've read over the years, the more I question that.
It's well established among Biblical scholars that the Roman Catholic Church took gross liberties with the Scriptures, "cherrypicking" (popular word these days) what they wanted in the official Biblical Canon. (Not to mention intentionally 'mistranslating' certain words, like calling Mary Magdalene a prostitute when she was no such thing.) One of the things that the RCC axed was the notion of reincarnation. Why? For CONTROL. It makes sense, really: In order to maintain power, the RC Church had to keep the masses ignorant and afraid. Priests read Scripture in a language people didn't understand for a reason, told people that this life is IT for a reason. Told them that Aunt Nelly would roast in Hell if her survivors did not pay a hefty sum for extra prayers, or she would escape purgatory/reach heaven sooner if her relative would only make a 'small' donation. Priests led people to believe that only the priest could communicate with God and intercede on their behalf. (Which is why the RCC branded Luther a heretic: He told people for the first time, in their own language, that they could pray directly to God themselves and didn't need a priest to do so on their behalf.) Church officials probably feared that if people knew they had unlimited "do-overs" they would ignore the Church, ending priests' lucrative careers and cushy lifestyles.
According to Biblical scholars today, early texts actually mentioned reincarnation quite frequently, both in the New and the Old Testaments. Jesus Himself was said to be the reincarnation of the Old Testament prophets, 2000+ years ago being His final incarnation before returning to Heaven for all time. All there is left in today's Bible are a few cryptic phrases here and there alluding to reincarnation; all overt mention is gone.
Billions of people in other faiths believe in reincarnation, so one does wonder how that many people can be wrong. Some have suggested that Jesus himself traveled as a young man to India and elsewhere to learn from wise men of other faiths. (Remind anyone of the New Testament story about the boy Jesus discussing religion with Jewish elders?)
In a way, I think the notion of reincarnation makes some people scared, less secure about the afterlife, because it makes them/us realize it might not be as easy as we thought, that we can't keep sinning over and over then suddenly convert at the end. It just doesn't work that way. It might be sobering for some to think that there is no shortcut, no get-out-of-jail-free card, only more 'homework,' if you will. Like God is a good parent, patient and loving but strict, willing to wait forever until we get it right--so we might as well start acting with humility and love now and save ourselves a few millennia.
Wow--have I ever digressed. Back to the book: I found it refreshing, unlike anything I've ever read before. It is a fast-paced, multifaceted, fun read. Highly recommend!
I find it exciting, though, that there is an author who dares take on the taboo topic of reincarnation. (Taboo in Christianity, but not in the Jewish Kabbalah.) Many Christians believe that reincarnation isn't real because 'there is no mention of it in the Bible'. That's what we've been taught anyway, in the mainstream Christian Church. But the more I've read over the years, the more I question that.
It's well established among Biblical scholars that the Roman Catholic Church took gross liberties with the Scriptures, "cherrypicking" (popular word these days) what they wanted in the official Biblical Canon. (Not to mention intentionally 'mistranslating' certain words, like calling Mary Magdalene a prostitute when she was no such thing.) One of the things that the RCC axed was the notion of reincarnation. Why? For CONTROL. It makes sense, really: In order to maintain power, the RC Church had to keep the masses ignorant and afraid. Priests read Scripture in a language people didn't understand for a reason, told people that this life is IT for a reason. Told them that Aunt Nelly would roast in Hell if her survivors did not pay a hefty sum for extra prayers, or she would escape purgatory/reach heaven sooner if her relative would only make a 'small' donation. Priests led people to believe that only the priest could communicate with God and intercede on their behalf. (Which is why the RCC branded Luther a heretic: He told people for the first time, in their own language, that they could pray directly to God themselves and didn't need a priest to do so on their behalf.) Church officials probably feared that if people knew they had unlimited "do-overs" they would ignore the Church, ending priests' lucrative careers and cushy lifestyles.
According to Biblical scholars today, early texts actually mentioned reincarnation quite frequently, both in the New and the Old Testaments. Jesus Himself was said to be the reincarnation of the Old Testament prophets, 2000+ years ago being His final incarnation before returning to Heaven for all time. All there is left in today's Bible are a few cryptic phrases here and there alluding to reincarnation; all overt mention is gone.
Billions of people in other faiths believe in reincarnation, so one does wonder how that many people can be wrong. Some have suggested that Jesus himself traveled as a young man to India and elsewhere to learn from wise men of other faiths. (Remind anyone of the New Testament story about the boy Jesus discussing religion with Jewish elders?)
In a way, I think the notion of reincarnation makes some people scared, less secure about the afterlife, because it makes them/us realize it might not be as easy as we thought, that we can't keep sinning over and over then suddenly convert at the end. It just doesn't work that way. It might be sobering for some to think that there is no shortcut, no get-out-of-jail-free card, only more 'homework,' if you will. Like God is a good parent, patient and loving but strict, willing to wait forever until we get it right--so we might as well start acting with humility and love now and save ourselves a few millennia.
Wow--have I ever digressed. Back to the book: I found it refreshing, unlike anything I've ever read before. It is a fast-paced, multifaceted, fun read. Highly recommend!
December 30, 2015
Review copy provided by publisher
I had not heard of this book (or the series) until Lisa from TLC Book Tours asked me if I wanted to be on the tour. I’m glad she gave me the opportunity to read The Hypnotist because had it not been for her, I probably wouldn’t have found out about this book otherwise. The Hypnotist is the 3rd book in The Reincarnationist series. I have not read the 1st two books but I had no problem reading this book as a stand alone.
The beginning of the book felt like I was getting pulled from all different directions. It was hard for me to follow the storyline at first; it kept bouncing around from one narrative to another in a way that I found somewhat confusing. But once I had my feet firmly planted in the foundation of the storyline, I was ready for the adventure. This took about 50-60 pages.
Another thing I had trouble with was following the characters. The main reason being that at one point a character would be referred to by their first name, then at another time by their last name. Because of this inconsistency, I found myself backpedalling to remind myself who a character was. I think it would have been a bit easier to follow if the characters were all referred to the same way - either by their first name or their last. There is enough going on in the storyline that needs my attention; I don’t want to have to constantly think ‘who’s this guy again?". I finally decided to keep a list of characters, to keep everyone straight.
All in all, The Hypnotist was a good read. Once I got into the story, it was hard to put the book down. It had an intricate plot with the character’s paths intertwining with one another in ways you would not expect. I am not a firm believer in reincarnation; however, the author presented very convincing theories on the subject matter. The highly climatic ending kept me on the edge of my seat. I got closure for the most part; no cliffhanger ending here. The intense-filled, suspenseful ending had me! It was not what I was expecting. I like getting an ending that I didn’t see coming. Word of insight - this book is one to savor; The Hypnotist is not a light, fluffy read.
I had not heard of this book (or the series) until Lisa from TLC Book Tours asked me if I wanted to be on the tour. I’m glad she gave me the opportunity to read The Hypnotist because had it not been for her, I probably wouldn’t have found out about this book otherwise. The Hypnotist is the 3rd book in The Reincarnationist series. I have not read the 1st two books but I had no problem reading this book as a stand alone.
The beginning of the book felt like I was getting pulled from all different directions. It was hard for me to follow the storyline at first; it kept bouncing around from one narrative to another in a way that I found somewhat confusing. But once I had my feet firmly planted in the foundation of the storyline, I was ready for the adventure. This took about 50-60 pages.
Another thing I had trouble with was following the characters. The main reason being that at one point a character would be referred to by their first name, then at another time by their last name. Because of this inconsistency, I found myself backpedalling to remind myself who a character was. I think it would have been a bit easier to follow if the characters were all referred to the same way - either by their first name or their last. There is enough going on in the storyline that needs my attention; I don’t want to have to constantly think ‘who’s this guy again?". I finally decided to keep a list of characters, to keep everyone straight.
All in all, The Hypnotist was a good read. Once I got into the story, it was hard to put the book down. It had an intricate plot with the character’s paths intertwining with one another in ways you would not expect. I am not a firm believer in reincarnation; however, the author presented very convincing theories on the subject matter. The highly climatic ending kept me on the edge of my seat. I got closure for the most part; no cliffhanger ending here. The intense-filled, suspenseful ending had me! It was not what I was expecting. I like getting an ending that I didn’t see coming. Word of insight - this book is one to savor; The Hypnotist is not a light, fluffy read.
July 22, 2010
From My Blog...[return][return]The Hypnotist is the third book in M.J. Rose’s Reincarnationist series and the first one I have read. The previous two novels are The Reincarnationist and The Memorist, which inspired the television series, Past Life, which I have never seen, and a rather round about way of me stating that while the genre was not for me, the writing is absolutely brilliant. The Hypnotist opens with the death of Lucian Glass, which occurred twenty years ago, but now Lucian is an F.B.I. agent and part of the Art Crime Division who will travel through time and space, his past lives via hypnosis. Meanwhile, in Manhattan the Iran and America cultural exchange is not going quite as planned. The Metropolitan Museum of Art happens to have the statue of Hypos and claims it was bequeathed to them and they have the proper documentation of the lineage of this piece of art. Iran wants Hypos returned, first using legal channels through Vartan Reza and then devolving to Farid Taghinia and Samimi being ordered to recover Hypos. Rose writes extremely well and her characters are quite well developed and her plot lines and twists are solid, well placed, suspenseful and strong. The history of Hypos and the plans to steal a gigantic statue from Metropolitan Museum of Art intrigued me; unfortunately the paranormal aspects of this story were lost on me. I believe that had I an interest in this genre I would have truly enjoyed The Hypnotist. However, even the strength of M.J. Rose’s writing could not change my opinion of paranormal romance, hypnosis and reincarnation. The Hypnotist is a strong book, and even though I have not read the previous two, guessing based on the strength of this novel, I would hazard to guess that if one was interested in a mystery/thriller steeped in the paranormal then this would be a series to read.
June 26, 2014
A murder, art crime and past life study, what more could you ask except interesting writing and a good plot, which is also here.
Lucian Glass is not only an agent with the FBI's Art Crime Team, but he has just lost a special love and has learned of an art theft of several masters. He is on the trail of the art theft when he comes face to face with his own understanding of what is real and what is not.
Into the mix is introduced the question of reincarnation and whether or not a piece of sculpture really can be owned by anyone. His answers come in a desperate attempt to save the sculpture from theft from the Metropolitan Museum of Art and, at the same time, save the lives of those attending the presentation ceremony.
Quotes: "I've read their writings. You believe, and I do, too, that so much of what causes our pain and suffering are unresolved past-life issues carried over into the present. There are tools, Iris, tools that can help us do our jobs, that could help our patients. Tools we could utilize in order to prove reincarnation is real, to prove that you and I and all of us are part of the past and the present and will forever be part of the future. That our souls are part of each other."
"It is only art that keeps us immortal."
Lucian Glass is not only an agent with the FBI's Art Crime Team, but he has just lost a special love and has learned of an art theft of several masters. He is on the trail of the art theft when he comes face to face with his own understanding of what is real and what is not.
Into the mix is introduced the question of reincarnation and whether or not a piece of sculpture really can be owned by anyone. His answers come in a desperate attempt to save the sculpture from theft from the Metropolitan Museum of Art and, at the same time, save the lives of those attending the presentation ceremony.
Quotes: "I've read their writings. You believe, and I do, too, that so much of what causes our pain and suffering are unresolved past-life issues carried over into the present. There are tools, Iris, tools that can help us do our jobs, that could help our patients. Tools we could utilize in order to prove reincarnation is real, to prove that you and I and all of us are part of the past and the present and will forever be part of the future. That our souls are part of each other."
"It is only art that keeps us immortal."
June 22, 2011
This book is third in a series of books written by M.J. Rose. However, this is the first one I have read.
Agent Lucian Glass is on the trail of Malachi Samuels of the Phoenix Foundation who is after the Memory tools that could prove whether people are reincarnated. Lucien’s first love Solange was killed during a heist of a Matisse that was stolen 20 years earlier which may be tied to Samuels’ quest for the artifacts. Lucien becomes involved with Emmeline, who is Solange’s cousin and Lucian starts to believe that Solange has been reincarnated as Emmeline. Could it be true?
Unfortunately, it took me a very long time to get through this book. I don’t know if it was because it was about artifacts and the art world (of which I’m not a connoisseur) or that I had not read the previous two books, or that the story itself seemed to drag on for me and I kept getting everyone mixed up. Nevertheless, it was not a good read for me.
Agent Lucian Glass is on the trail of Malachi Samuels of the Phoenix Foundation who is after the Memory tools that could prove whether people are reincarnated. Lucien’s first love Solange was killed during a heist of a Matisse that was stolen 20 years earlier which may be tied to Samuels’ quest for the artifacts. Lucien becomes involved with Emmeline, who is Solange’s cousin and Lucian starts to believe that Solange has been reincarnated as Emmeline. Could it be true?
Unfortunately, it took me a very long time to get through this book. I don’t know if it was because it was about artifacts and the art world (of which I’m not a connoisseur) or that I had not read the previous two books, or that the story itself seemed to drag on for me and I kept getting everyone mixed up. Nevertheless, it was not a good read for me.
July 2, 2010
This is the third book in M.J. Rose's Reincarnationist series. I have not read the first two, but received a review copy of this one from the publisher through NetGalley.com. A reader can easily jump into the middle of this series, though, after having read The Hypnotist, I will definitely go back and read the first two!
The plot is intricate, full of twists and complications that require the reader to be paying attention. While reincarnation is the central theme, we're taken through an ancient world of artifacts and the modern world of stolen artwork. Everyone's lives seem to be intertwined, with the past bleeding into the present.
The characters are each unique, struggling with their own demons as they find their way. Rose's writing easily dropped me into this made-up world and held me there until the last page.
The plot is intricate, full of twists and complications that require the reader to be paying attention. While reincarnation is the central theme, we're taken through an ancient world of artifacts and the modern world of stolen artwork. Everyone's lives seem to be intertwined, with the past bleeding into the present.
The characters are each unique, struggling with their own demons as they find their way. Rose's writing easily dropped me into this made-up world and held me there until the last page.
June 20, 2011
Wow my TBR just grew by two. After reading this book I must read the two prior in the series. While as a stand alone it more than delivers but to be able to enjoy two other of these masterpieces only adds to the joy I had from this one. Lucien is a character to connect with and love. Even when he thought he was going insane I felt the fear that created in him, the doubts he had. All the elements of a cross genre novel...which means it's awesome on so many levels. History, mystery, romance, action, adventure, paranormal all mesh together for one fabulous and life questioning read.
July 15, 2011
Well how about that -- I finally won something here. :)
May 2, 2016
3.75* I enjoy this series & this one was good, but I sometimes had trouble pulling all the characters together.
July 23, 2020
Lucian. MET museum NYC. Solange. Hypnos statue.
*Warning this book contains rape.
*Warning this book contains rape.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2019
As the third book in the outstanding Reincarnationist series by author M. J. Rose, I knew this book would be incredible. And it absolutely was. It hooked me from the very first page, and I barely put it down to sleep. The more we get to know Lucian Glass, a frequent character and integral part of the FBI’s elite Art Theft team, the more I start to adore him. And Malachai? Yes, he’s present, too, and with each appearance I start hating him more and more. The story is sweet and tragic, violent and explosive. It’s all this and more. A priceless artifact with a mysterious providence is granted to the Met. A young lady is murdered in a theft gone very wrong. A child crying about events of the past, and Lucien Glass is caught in the middle again. How all these events merge together is incredible and unexpected. The ending was more explosive than even I could have expected. All in all, fabulous!
Read
October 16, 2019Picked the book without realizing it was not a separate or at least first, but a 3rd book in series. Not going to rate the book not to be unfair to the author, it's not her fault, after all.
I could still follow the story, but was not as involved as with my other books. Side plots were distracting.
The writing is a bit choppy. I feel that the main character could have been developed better. Maybe it WAS the author's idea to make him a workaholic with no emotions visible to his counterparts (or lovers, apparently), but I would prefer a bit more animated hero.
A mix of science fiction and mystery, it was neither here nor there for me. Will do my best to finish the book. Not going to start from the beginning for sure.
I could still follow the story, but was not as involved as with my other books. Side plots were distracting.
The writing is a bit choppy. I feel that the main character could have been developed better. Maybe it WAS the author's idea to make him a workaholic with no emotions visible to his counterparts (or lovers, apparently), but I would prefer a bit more animated hero.
A mix of science fiction and mystery, it was neither here nor there for me. Will do my best to finish the book. Not going to start from the beginning for sure.
December 21, 2016
I will definitely go back and read the first two. Read... I think listening to this one on audio was hard. There are quite a few points of view, and although the narrator was spectacular, I didn't always catch that I was in a new character's head until a few lines passed. That being said, this book needed all those threads. Loved the history, and the underground library, and all the art.
I didn't guess the murderer until near the end. Then, it made a lot of sense. Good job, M.J.
I checked this out from the library. The title lured me.
I didn't guess the murderer until near the end. Then, it made a lot of sense. Good job, M.J.
I checked this out from the library. The title lured me.
August 4, 2020
M.J.Rose did it again, she sucked me into her story with her brilliant writing and poetic style. the story is intriguing and how she merges the two lifetimes is wonderful. I was not thrilled when a new character was throw in who also had past life memories but I see how the small role she played fit into the overall story line, it was a bit distracting overall. However I enjoyed the story and the history and the ability to let my mind wonder about the possibilities of past lives.
April 19, 2018
Great mystery and insight into the art world and museums. Lots of historical elements. Very well researched and interesting book with great plot, kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed the past life elements and MJ Rose provides wonderful substantiating facts and validity for the case for past lives. I really like how this element is key to the characters and story line. Very good book.
June 5, 2018
I was going to give this story just three stars but then the last third of the book reeled me in. I was having a little bit of trouble with the various characters and keeping track of who they were, but that may just be me. It was definitely a good story though and I love MJ Rose's unusual twists in all of her books.
March 29, 2021
I LOVED the first book in this series but for some reason the third installment didn’t grab me like the first one did. The style felt a little like a watered down version of the first book lacking the emotional rawness and engagement. Still was good! But the reincarnationist just set a really high standard
April 24, 2018
rating of 2.5
January 30, 2020
Extremly slow and confusing start. Too many characters involved. Wondered why I kept with the story. It didn't pick up until 3/4 of the way through. Then is was ok.
February 17, 2020
DNF
Sounded interesting but not my genre at all. Just can't get into supernatural stuff.
Sounded interesting but not my genre at all. Just can't get into supernatural stuff.
December 16, 2020
Excellent, am reading on...
May 15, 2021
3.75
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July 28, 2021Audio
September 9, 2010
This is a series review. Original post at Layers of Thought.
A page turning paranormal thriller series with historical fiction and an ancient religious belief system embedded in the stories.
Mini Synopsizes ~ The Reincarnationist: Some precious stones with paranormal properties have been stolen from a newly discovered pre-Christian archeological site in Rome, dating around 400 AD. The stones purportedly can help one to remember past lives.
The story is primarily set in the present but moves back in time to the 1800s and to 400 AD - with linking story lines through the past lives of several of the main characters.
The Memorist: The second book has music at its core, where another antiquity is found which also purportedly helps one to remember past lives. It is called a memory flute.
This story is set primarily in Vienna where the flute has connections to Beethoven and ancient Hindu reincarnation beliefs. Also included are a few key characters from The Reincarnationist, making the first book an important first read.
The Hypnotist: This third in the series, is a story based around an ancient statue of the god Hypnos. However, this artifact has powers which are more mystical and powerful than the above two antiquities.
Within The Hypnotist are connections to The Metropolitan Museum of Art – in New York, so the story revolves around art as well as some of the legal issues around US ownership of foreign artifacts. To complicate things there are Islamic factions wishing to claim the statue as a lost national treasure.
All three connected books have people and groups vying for these paranormal items for nefarious and pure reasons. All mixed up with murder, drama, historical and factual data, as well as the paranormal - making the books, at times, heart pounding reads.
My thoughts: This is an excellent series combining historical fiction, paranormal, ancient religious belief, and cultural information all within page turning thrillers. The books can be seen as an interesting way to begin to understand reincarnation through a variety of religions - Kabbalahism, Pre-Christian Paganism, pre 400 AD Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism and more.
Here is a key quote from the first book, The Reincarnationist, which describes the religious fears around reincarnation regardless of the author’s manufactured stones; these fears are at the heart of the series:
This is interesting when looking at if from the perspective that various religions through the centuries have been extinguished for reasons as suggested above – fear of loss of power, and control of their adherents. (The books include much of this type of insight).
As for the actual writing – Rose has a style that flows so easily that one may think it would be easy to replicate. However, it is often the experts who appear to make their art look simple. I am thinking that this is the case with this author.
I also like that the books have been written with short and exciting chapters so they are easy to pick up and put down, but one could carry on and complete each of the books in a couple of sittings. Also included at the end of the books are listings for further reading, for those so inclined.
I hear that the latest of the series, The Hypnotist, is not the last of the collection. I am looking forward to reading more about the other “memory tools” the key elements of the series.
I give this series a 4 star, with parts of the book reaching a 4.5 star. Its a great series which I completely enjoyed. A highly recommended escapist story, as well as insightful reading.
A page turning paranormal thriller series with historical fiction and an ancient religious belief system embedded in the stories.
Mini Synopsizes ~ The Reincarnationist: Some precious stones with paranormal properties have been stolen from a newly discovered pre-Christian archeological site in Rome, dating around 400 AD. The stones purportedly can help one to remember past lives.
The story is primarily set in the present but moves back in time to the 1800s and to 400 AD - with linking story lines through the past lives of several of the main characters.
The Memorist: The second book has music at its core, where another antiquity is found which also purportedly helps one to remember past lives. It is called a memory flute.
This story is set primarily in Vienna where the flute has connections to Beethoven and ancient Hindu reincarnation beliefs. Also included are a few key characters from The Reincarnationist, making the first book an important first read.
The Hypnotist: This third in the series, is a story based around an ancient statue of the god Hypnos. However, this artifact has powers which are more mystical and powerful than the above two antiquities.
Within The Hypnotist are connections to The Metropolitan Museum of Art – in New York, so the story revolves around art as well as some of the legal issues around US ownership of foreign artifacts. To complicate things there are Islamic factions wishing to claim the statue as a lost national treasure.
All three connected books have people and groups vying for these paranormal items for nefarious and pure reasons. All mixed up with murder, drama, historical and factual data, as well as the paranormal - making the books, at times, heart pounding reads.
My thoughts: This is an excellent series combining historical fiction, paranormal, ancient religious belief, and cultural information all within page turning thrillers. The books can be seen as an interesting way to begin to understand reincarnation through a variety of religions - Kabbalahism, Pre-Christian Paganism, pre 400 AD Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism and more.
Here is a key quote from the first book, The Reincarnationist, which describes the religious fears around reincarnation regardless of the author’s manufactured stones; these fears are at the heart of the series:
Weren’t the highest echelons of the church worried about the magic stones? And for good reason. If man discovered that Nirvana was within his reach – if it was in his own hands, not in the hand of God – What authority would the church hold over him?
This is interesting when looking at if from the perspective that various religions through the centuries have been extinguished for reasons as suggested above – fear of loss of power, and control of their adherents. (The books include much of this type of insight).
As for the actual writing – Rose has a style that flows so easily that one may think it would be easy to replicate. However, it is often the experts who appear to make their art look simple. I am thinking that this is the case with this author.
I also like that the books have been written with short and exciting chapters so they are easy to pick up and put down, but one could carry on and complete each of the books in a couple of sittings. Also included at the end of the books are listings for further reading, for those so inclined.
I hear that the latest of the series, The Hypnotist, is not the last of the collection. I am looking forward to reading more about the other “memory tools” the key elements of the series.
I give this series a 4 star, with parts of the book reaching a 4.5 star. Its a great series which I completely enjoyed. A highly recommended escapist story, as well as insightful reading.
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