Christine Palamidessi Moore

This is a book that was incredibly high-reaching in scope, but just didn't quite make it in my mind. It includes all the ingredients for an interesting and exciting story: religion, culture, family, romance and mystery; unfortunately it lacked the story-telling technique necessary to keep me engaged. Part of the reason for my lack of enthusiasm may be that I didn't know it would be so heavily weighted in the mystery genre. I'm not generally a huge fan of mysteries (although I loved "King of the Confessors" which is very similar to this one as far as genre) but I do love history, art and religion. I can recommend this book to true mystery/thriller fans who aren't as interested in the academic aspect.… (more)

I had a hard time getting into this book, and left it sitting on my bedside table for a few months between attempts. However, after a few chapters I finally did find it easier to delve into, and eventually I did get hooked. It starts out with a plot that seems to be about sibling rivalry, but somehow becomes a mystery involving the Vatican, art smuggling, opera, and murder. If that sounds a little reminiscent of a Dan Brown thriller ... it's really not. It's not nearly as tangled or dark, though it does take quite a few twists and turns.

Admittedly, this is not my favorite genre. If you like mystery and intrigue, you might get into it a little faster than I did. All in all, not a bad book; just not one of the best.… (more)