Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Shadows of the Stone Benders by K. Patrick Donoghue

I liked this novel, a combination of archaeology and science fiction. I had read other books suggesting an advanced civilization flourished before Noah's world wide flood so this one was appealing.

Anlon is our hero, a wealthy and accomplished scientist. He received word his eccentric uncle has died and goes to take care of the estate. Before long he is involved in his uncle's archaeological research involving mysterious stones from a civilization long ago. But others are after them too. The death toll mounts as Anlon tries to solve one mystery after another.

I've enjoyed the novels by Preston and Child and this one fits into that genre. There are stones that contain visions and others that can forcefully move people. There is suspense as several nefarious people are trying to find all of the artifacts before Anlon does.

The character development is good. Anlon has a sidekick, a young woman he has helped to regain her self esteem. She's a scrappy young woman and it was fun to see her grow and mature as the novel developed.

I think this novel is a good debut effort. The plot is a little complex but I enjoyed its over all movement. We are left with hints of a sequel and I will be watching for it.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Kevin Patrick Donoghue is the author of The Anlon Cully Chronicles, including this, his debut novel. He lives in the Virginia suburbs of Washington D.C. with his wife and two sons. You can find out more at http://www.kpatrickdonoghue.com/.

Leaping Leopard Enterprises, LLC, 316 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.

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