This novel was better than average but still there were problems. The author has a penchant for overly detailed descriptions and there were several gratuitous sex scenes that compel you to say both huh? and why? Other than the minor crime of occasionally trying too hard, I do like her writing style.
It's a DaVinci Code type of novel with its murder/mystery, religious artifacts storyline and anti organized religion theme. The story takes place in France both in the present and past weaving the stories together brilliantly. I found the novel difficult to get into at first, partly due to Mosse's need to detail ever bit of flora and fauna but once the characters became established, I was hooked. I do feel this novel was better than any of Dan Brown's work because of the improved character development. I love historical novels without being much of a history buff so I can't vouch for the historical accuracy.
I'm a consummate believer in literary license.
The book is occasionally difficult to follow, because of the numerous characters and quick switches back and forth between centuries. I wouldn't call it a difficult read but definitely not a ball of fluff. I liked this book enough to buy her next one "The Sepulcher", although with the stack of unreads sitting on my shelf it will be some time before I get a chance to crack that one.
Enjoy.
