Wayward Son by Tom Pollack
4 stars
(Excerpt from Goodreads) A POWERFUL TREMOR UNEARTHS AN ANCIENT SECRET
Buried near Italy’s Mount Vesuvius is a fortified observatory containing artifacts dating to the earliest record of human events. Only one person, the Getty Museum’s Amanda James can unlock the mysterious doors that guard the chamber. But once inside, Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorious Biblical killer; who long ago wandered off the pages of history. When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must confront sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation; before it alters the destiny of millions. The first in a series, Wayward Son, takes the reader back in time, where ancient adventures in Egypt, Greece, China and Rome collide with modern-day intrigue and suspense. Journey with Amanda and witness the incredible story of the world’s original wayward son.
This story takes place in two parts. In present day, Amanda James works for the Getty Museum specializing in scrolls and languages. She is contacted by Juan Carlos, a friend and ex boyfriend. An earthquake by Mount Vesuvius has opened a small crack that leads to a gold door, which is assumed to lead to a great archeological find. Amanda is chosen because of her background as the best person to interpret the symbols on the door.
At the same time, Luc Renard, a rich benefactor to the Getty, is in the process of purchasing the land that has been uncovered by the earthquake. The Vatican has also been informed that the discovery could possibly be a tomb. If it is, the Vatican will step up and claim the site.
The second part of the story follows Cain. We begin when Cain is being punished for slaying his brother. We follow Cain through the years as he becomes a powerful ruler, an engineer, a captain of a shipping industry on the Nile, a bard, and many other things.
I have to admit that when I first read the synopsis, I thought this would be another mystery thriller with historical items similar to The Da Vinci Code or like Clive Cussler’s Dirk Pitt series. I was surprised since this book is basically about Cain and his travels through the world. It was interesting all the areas and things that he sees and does.
***Spoiler Alert, skip the next paragraph if you don’t want to spoil the book*** The only thing that I was not impressed with was that the synopsis made it seem like there was going to be a big race to protect the find. But there was not, it was just the story of Cain, his travels, and such. Yes, there was the rush to rescue Amanda and who was going to claim the find, but nothing like I was lead to believe.
If you get past that, I think it was well written and worth reading. If you like history of Greece, Rome, the Middle East, and some China, I feel like you would really like this book. I loved the biblical references in the story; it really makes everything come together.
I received this book for free from the Library Thing Member Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
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