The plotline consists of the reordering of several non-Biblical Christian myths, mainly the Third Secret of Fatima. I have no idea whether this exists or not, and it doesn’t matter, because we never discover what the Third Secret is. Only that whatever it predicts could be the destruction of the world as we know it.

It is a complex plot, filled with realistic and complex characters and fascinating ideas from both the scientific and religious worlds (which creates one of the basic conflicts as well). Think about Lucifer particles, cosmic radiation flux, quantum consciousness theory, piezomagnetism and the mind’s spatio-temporic logic. And that’s only a start.

All of these ideas are worked out within the framework of a conspiracy-theory-type demonic plot to take over the world, diplomatic manipulations at the highest level (the Holy Roman Emperor, the Pope and several high Cardinals take part), with a couple of tense action-adventure chase scenes thrown in.

I find that usually as we approach the end of novels with complex conflict the more direct action takes over and the philosophy gets simplified and downplayed, allowing for increased suspense. In this case, unfortunately, the problems are too esoteric to simplify, and must be solved philosophically. So, the final conflict is on an elevated plane, involving the Christian principles of sacrifice and repentance, which serves to reduce the action to discussion and reduces the interest of a wider range of the reading public.

However, if you’re into a good theological action-adventure, this is a well-written book, and worth reading. Maybe even for a second time.

(4 / 5)