Another Review at MyShelf.Com

The Breath of God
Jeffrey Small

West Hills Press / Hundreds of Heads Books, LLC
March 1, 2011/ ISBN 978-1-933512-86-0
Suspense
Amazon

Reviewed by Linda Young

Grant Matthews is trying to finish the research for his unfinished dissertation so he can complete his PhD. He spent the last of his savings on a trip to Bhutan looking for the lost texts of Issa. After a tragic kayak accident, Grant finds himself in a monastery being cared for by a monk named Kinley. They become close friends and also become student and teacher during the six weeks waiting for Grant’s broken leg to heal. Grant discovers that the very texts that he is looking for are right there at the monastery where he is staying. Now he must find a way to convince the Bhutan government to allow him to take the ancient text to Emory University so that they can be studied and analyzed to confirm that they are authentic. That is, if he can get them out of the monastery. However, once word leaks out about his find, Grant must deal with the Christian zealots, a secret in his past, an unknown stalker, and murder.

Jeffrey Small has a winner right out of the gate. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I picked this book for review. I do like suspense stories. But, what I liked about this book was that it’s not only a great story but also stimulates the mind. You come away with a clearer understanding of the different beliefs and religious practices of the four largest religions in our world. And to top it off, there is quite a surprise at the end.

Small’s background in religious studies really shows in his work. His research, travels, and personal experiences definitely enhance the book. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good suspense/mystery novel. I couldn’t put it down till I finished it. It won’t disappoint you. I can’t wait to see what he writes next.

Reviewer's Note:


Reviewed 2011
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