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The Cana Mystery
Digging in the heart of the vast desert, archeologists unearth something that will change history. Legends tell of an ancient code no mortal man can read. Summoned from grad school in Boston, brilliant Ava Fischer might be the only person alive with the skills and attributes necessary to unlock a secret that's slept for centuries. Chased by ruthless criminals, terrorists, and fanatics, Ava must rely on her keen wits and her few loyal companions to survive. Can she evade danger long enough to solve The Cana Mystery?
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
September 8, 2013
Really enjoyed this book and would recommend it as a great summer read. The author paints a variety of specific locations thorough out Europe and Northern Africa with great detail and insight. I have spent a fair amount of time overseas and can tell the author is writing from experience, not from a Frommer's travel book. The engaging specifics and descriptors amplify the storyline and draw the reader into identify with the angst, tension and frustrations of the main characters as they try to survive a deadly game of cat and mouse. Additionally the historical and religious information passed through the book as part of the fictional thriller set the tone for a fast paced adventure with twists around every corner. No spoilers here, but if you want to solve the Cana Mystery you have to see the end of this book.....once you start it you won't want to put it down.
November 23, 2013
The Cana Mystery by David Beckett
Fast-paced and intelligent thriller. 5 Stars
Well plotted and pacy, The Cana mystery is a very enjoyable thriller, professionally written and with attractive and convincing characters. The story is great, too, and the writer’s broad general knowledge, allied to superbly rich descriptions of the book’s various locations, gives the whole a very authentic feel and pulls the reader into the very fabric of the book’s world. It is enjoyable to follow the principal protagonists into fascinating and well described locales in Egypt, Italy, Malta and elsewhere. Brett is clearly well travelled and uses his knowledge to add genuine tension to the writing. The details of the lost artefacts are extremely plausible, and the archaeological and historical elements are very informative for the reader, especially those whose knowledge of religious history might best be described as sketchy.
I loved, too, the drift into and out of centuries past ( even though initially I was puzzled by the relevance), the clandestine roles played by some of these old characters, the biblical references hanging over all, and the deft and muted handling of the religious themes This book has all the ingredients of a first-class thriller – appropriately evil bad guys, an exciting chase across Egypt with the hapless twosome somehow managing to extricate themselves from every setback, and all enhanced by extraordinarily erudite dollops of history, geography, Old Testament references and some amazingly complex technical know-how.
I have two little niggles although neither really diminishes the story. One would be the author’s tendency to overplay the food menus. Every time the characters sit down to eat, the reader is presented with detailed descriptions of courses that contain rare and exotic dishes that (I would hazard a guess) most readers would never have heard of. A wee touch of the Ian Fleming snobbery here. The other niggle is the author’s tendency to use riddles in lieu of conversation, particularly off-putting when most of the riddles are well known and unoriginal. I presume their function is to make Amy appear very clever but we know that about her already and the manner in which the riddles are introduced is uncharacteristically heavy-handed.
That said, The Cana Mystery is a terrific read that will grab your interest and keep you captured late into the night. I can recommend this book thoroughly to anyone who loves an intelligent and fast-moving thriller.
Fast-paced and intelligent thriller. 5 Stars
Well plotted and pacy, The Cana mystery is a very enjoyable thriller, professionally written and with attractive and convincing characters. The story is great, too, and the writer’s broad general knowledge, allied to superbly rich descriptions of the book’s various locations, gives the whole a very authentic feel and pulls the reader into the very fabric of the book’s world. It is enjoyable to follow the principal protagonists into fascinating and well described locales in Egypt, Italy, Malta and elsewhere. Brett is clearly well travelled and uses his knowledge to add genuine tension to the writing. The details of the lost artefacts are extremely plausible, and the archaeological and historical elements are very informative for the reader, especially those whose knowledge of religious history might best be described as sketchy.
I loved, too, the drift into and out of centuries past ( even though initially I was puzzled by the relevance), the clandestine roles played by some of these old characters, the biblical references hanging over all, and the deft and muted handling of the religious themes This book has all the ingredients of a first-class thriller – appropriately evil bad guys, an exciting chase across Egypt with the hapless twosome somehow managing to extricate themselves from every setback, and all enhanced by extraordinarily erudite dollops of history, geography, Old Testament references and some amazingly complex technical know-how.
I have two little niggles although neither really diminishes the story. One would be the author’s tendency to overplay the food menus. Every time the characters sit down to eat, the reader is presented with detailed descriptions of courses that contain rare and exotic dishes that (I would hazard a guess) most readers would never have heard of. A wee touch of the Ian Fleming snobbery here. The other niggle is the author’s tendency to use riddles in lieu of conversation, particularly off-putting when most of the riddles are well known and unoriginal. I presume their function is to make Amy appear very clever but we know that about her already and the manner in which the riddles are introduced is uncharacteristically heavy-handed.
That said, The Cana Mystery is a terrific read that will grab your interest and keep you captured late into the night. I can recommend this book thoroughly to anyone who loves an intelligent and fast-moving thriller.
April 4, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a break from my normal reads of the paranormal. The characters were well developed in my opinion and even had me laughing in places. It may have been your typical mystery/thriller/suspense ending, but it was still a well written book. I liked the archaeological plot line, and the flip back in time segments. It was a well round book with everything you need for a good read. I would recommend this book to those who like a good mystery with a little action, adventure and globetrotting.
March 28, 2014
I don’t read thrillers and I was less than ‘thrilled’ when an enthusiastic friend urged me to open The Cana Mystery.
I studied English Lit in college; I’ll admit that I’m a book snob. For example, I hated The Da Vinci Code. I can’t stand Tom Clancy or Nelson DeMille. I won’t say Beckett is the next Marcel Proust, but, to my surprise, The Cana Mystery offers moments of literary excellence.
Looking past some raw sections, attentive readers will discover, amid the book’s shootouts, secret codes, island hopping, and other genre mainstays, sentences and paragraphs whose force and beauty reveal the writer’s gifts.
Many chapters contain such gems, making the novel an enjoyable, invigorating read. 4.5 stars: artistic, intelligent, action-adventure targeted to an educated, perceptive audience.
I studied English Lit in college; I’ll admit that I’m a book snob. For example, I hated The Da Vinci Code. I can’t stand Tom Clancy or Nelson DeMille. I won’t say Beckett is the next Marcel Proust, but, to my surprise, The Cana Mystery offers moments of literary excellence.
Looking past some raw sections, attentive readers will discover, amid the book’s shootouts, secret codes, island hopping, and other genre mainstays, sentences and paragraphs whose force and beauty reveal the writer’s gifts.
Many chapters contain such gems, making the novel an enjoyable, invigorating read. 4.5 stars: artistic, intelligent, action-adventure targeted to an educated, perceptive audience.
August 28, 2013
Some reviews have compared this book to the Da Vinci Code. It reminds me more of Raiders of the Lost Ark. The jars from the wedding at Cana -- I can picture Indiana Jones pursuing them. (In fact, this story would make a better movie than any but the first.) The setting is contemporary, though, and the characters are modern, including the strong female lead. And in his depiction of Ava and the other characters, Beckett writes with class, a rare (and precious) commodity these days. This is a book written for adults that will also play well with a slightly younger audience. Parents can share it with their older children with enthusiasm, and without embarrassment. Recommend without reservation.
August 5, 2013
Great fast paced mystery, strong female lead character. Hard to put down once you've started! Lots of action but not predictable. Keeps you guessing. A fun read.
May 19, 2014
I'm not usually a fan of "thrillers." I prefer to leave all that technology, conspiracy, espionage and impending doom to the guys. Beckett's book proved to be an exception. Because I AM a fan of linguistics, religious history in the middle east, and intrepid feminine heroines.
In contrast to DaVinci Code's flimsy heroine, Beckett's Ava actually notices the blood on her clothes, wants a shower, cries on occasion, considers the socio-cultural impact of her wardrobe, and washes the sand out of her hair. In other words, she's a realistic protagonist who resembles the women I know.
The religious context kept my high anxiety manageable. I'm enough of an egghead to appreciate the historical digressions that have drawn fire from some reviewers. I certainly did not understand all the computer-tech Gabe and DURMDVL used to get messages to each other as well as to Ava and Paul. But their effects were clear enough in context to keep me moving through the narrative.
I'm looking forward to Beckett's next book. From an author so skilled at writing female characters, I'm still wondering about DURMDVL . . . Now that Ava has found true love with Paul, could Gabe be next? And what about Jess?
In contrast to DaVinci Code's flimsy heroine, Beckett's Ava actually notices the blood on her clothes, wants a shower, cries on occasion, considers the socio-cultural impact of her wardrobe, and washes the sand out of her hair. In other words, she's a realistic protagonist who resembles the women I know.
The religious context kept my high anxiety manageable. I'm enough of an egghead to appreciate the historical digressions that have drawn fire from some reviewers. I certainly did not understand all the computer-tech Gabe and DURMDVL used to get messages to each other as well as to Ava and Paul. But their effects were clear enough in context to keep me moving through the narrative.
I'm looking forward to Beckett's next book. From an author so skilled at writing female characters, I'm still wondering about DURMDVL . . . Now that Ava has found true love with Paul, could Gabe be next? And what about Jess?
June 26, 2014
The Cana Mystery has all the elements of a top thriller. A strong female protagonist, exotic locales, and enough hardware to satisfy the avid Clancy fan. The mystery itself is worthy of Dan Brown, with tighter plotting and no lost or forgotten characters.
David Beckett has full command of his twists and turns, and ties them up neatly when he is done. This is a book you'll be glad you have on a rainy afternoon.
David Beckett has full command of his twists and turns, and ties them up neatly when he is done. This is a book you'll be glad you have on a rainy afternoon.
August 28, 2014
Great read! Unfortunately it appears to be the only book David Beckett has written--Mr. Beckett, get to work!! Suspenseful, taut action, the pace never slows and I never lost interest. Well researched and full of details that make the storyline pertinent and believable.
October 16, 2014
Smart, squeaky-clean, and occasionally funny, this award-winning thriller made a splash in 2013. Beckett’s Cana Mystery, the first Tuscany Press novel of consequence, impressed media critics and pleased most readers.
The writing is imperfect but, when compared to its action-adventure brethren, Beckett’s work offers a stronger-than-average plot, more compelling characters, and superior craftsmanship. We settled on 4.5 stars; a few sections need additional polish.
The author exhibits enormous potential diluted by inexperience. To enhance future efforts, we recommend he partner with a top NY fiction editor – one with genre expertise rather than the work-from-home freelancers most small publishers employ.
Disclosure: We accepted a promotional (free) paperback edition for review.
The Cana Mystery 2013 Action-Adventure
Kindle Downloads: 100,000+
Goodreads:390 ratings, 80 reviews 3.9 average.
Amazon: 1,000+ ratings, 340 reviews 3.9 average.
Most Popular Market: USA
Most Popular Regions: Arizona, Texas, California
National Awards: IPBA Medal (Best Suspense/Thriller)
Available Via: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Walmart.com
The writing is imperfect but, when compared to its action-adventure brethren, Beckett’s work offers a stronger-than-average plot, more compelling characters, and superior craftsmanship. We settled on 4.5 stars; a few sections need additional polish.
The author exhibits enormous potential diluted by inexperience. To enhance future efforts, we recommend he partner with a top NY fiction editor – one with genre expertise rather than the work-from-home freelancers most small publishers employ.
Disclosure: We accepted a promotional (free) paperback edition for review.
The Cana Mystery 2013 Action-Adventure
Kindle Downloads: 100,000+
Goodreads:390 ratings, 80 reviews 3.9 average.
Amazon: 1,000+ ratings, 340 reviews 3.9 average.
Most Popular Market: USA
Most Popular Regions: Arizona, Texas, California
National Awards: IPBA Medal (Best Suspense/Thriller)
Available Via: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Walmart.com
July 29, 2016
In the archaeology/ adventure/ historical thriller category, this novel is superior to any other book I've read in the last 4-5 years. I recommend it to sharp, educated readers who enjoy puzzles, world history, and travel. Folks too busy or too preoccupied to read carefully might (occasionally) become lost or confused by the various riddles and fascinating intricacies. Clearly, the author was shooting for a sophisticated, perceptive audience; the "downside" is that not everyone who zips through this book will get it. In The Cana Mystery, character development revolves around an interesting religious/philosophical debate and there is a refreshingly clean romantic sub-plot. The heroine is flawed, but she grows as the adventure progresses. I did not like her at first but -- about 2/3 of the way through -- I saw that she was evolving a deeper, more mature & caring person. Because this book is easily within the top 10% of similar books available, I gave it five stars. On a scale of 1-10, I would give a nine.
August 25, 2016
I have always enjoyed action-packed novels in the suspense/thriller genre. I was rather wary of reading a book from a small, quirky, independent publisher. Yet, despite a few noticeable copy-editing flaws, The Cana Mystery ranks among the best 3-4 thrillers I've read this decade. In fact, Mr. Beckett's successful debut may be the single BEST thriller I've read since 2009.
December 4, 2014
‘Something sought in a historic hat bag has been found.’
Ava Fischer, a post graduate student in Boston, receives a call from Paul, a former boyfriend. Will she fly to Yemen to help solve a puzzle in Yemen? She will be well paid, but the only clue Paul can provide her is very cryptic. While she’s considering, Pope Benedict XVI resigns, and the world focusses on the election of a new pope. Ava is curious, and accepts Paul’s offer. Are these artefacts directly linked to Jesus Christ? In the meantime, Paul has discovered that he is (unwittingly) part of a conspiracy to smuggle artefacts out of Egypt. Instead of participating, he flees with the relics. When Ava arrives in Yemen she cannot find Paul.
‘Without ethical principles or boundaries, all is permitted. If nothing matters except results, you can rationalize every criminal transgression and justify every selfish indulgence.’
Ava, with the help of cyber friends, is able to locate Paul. But they are both being pursued – by both Paul’s boss (Simon DeMaj) and by a terrorist (Sheik Ahmed). With the help of their friends, their wits and good luck, they try to survive while working out the mystery behind the artefacts: is there a hidden prophecy? Is Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation a sign of imminent danger?
‘Create confusion, then let your opponent’s aggression work against him.’
As the story moves between past and present, between Catholic history and unfolding events, Ava and Paul are helped by a number of people (the anonymous computer hacker is my favourite, together with two boys and a boat). But who can they trust?
This is a fast moving story, and although it is rich in detail about archaeology, ancient languages and the Christian church, the detail informs the story rather than slows it down. It’s not a difficult story to read, but it does require careful attention to pick up and make sense of the various puzzles and clues. For me, this was a good escapist read.
‘We too have a destiny. We can embrace our fate with courage or we can flee from it in terror. Either way, inexorably, destiny will find us.’
Note: My thanks to Net Galley for providing an electronic copy of this book.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Ava Fischer, a post graduate student in Boston, receives a call from Paul, a former boyfriend. Will she fly to Yemen to help solve a puzzle in Yemen? She will be well paid, but the only clue Paul can provide her is very cryptic. While she’s considering, Pope Benedict XVI resigns, and the world focusses on the election of a new pope. Ava is curious, and accepts Paul’s offer. Are these artefacts directly linked to Jesus Christ? In the meantime, Paul has discovered that he is (unwittingly) part of a conspiracy to smuggle artefacts out of Egypt. Instead of participating, he flees with the relics. When Ava arrives in Yemen she cannot find Paul.
‘Without ethical principles or boundaries, all is permitted. If nothing matters except results, you can rationalize every criminal transgression and justify every selfish indulgence.’
Ava, with the help of cyber friends, is able to locate Paul. But they are both being pursued – by both Paul’s boss (Simon DeMaj) and by a terrorist (Sheik Ahmed). With the help of their friends, their wits and good luck, they try to survive while working out the mystery behind the artefacts: is there a hidden prophecy? Is Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation a sign of imminent danger?
‘Create confusion, then let your opponent’s aggression work against him.’
As the story moves between past and present, between Catholic history and unfolding events, Ava and Paul are helped by a number of people (the anonymous computer hacker is my favourite, together with two boys and a boat). But who can they trust?
This is a fast moving story, and although it is rich in detail about archaeology, ancient languages and the Christian church, the detail informs the story rather than slows it down. It’s not a difficult story to read, but it does require careful attention to pick up and make sense of the various puzzles and clues. For me, this was a good escapist read.
‘We too have a destiny. We can embrace our fate with courage or we can flee from it in terror. Either way, inexorably, destiny will find us.’
Note: My thanks to Net Galley for providing an electronic copy of this book.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 17, 2014
The Midwest Book Review called The Cana Mystery, winner of the Tuscany Prize (2013) and an IPPY award, “a solid, fun read” with “the light modern feel of a cable TV miniseries plot.” I agree with Gordon’s assessment, but I’d go a step further. While imperfect and (in a few places) wanting professional edits, this smart novel sneaks into the top 15% of its genre thanks to interesting characters and a lucid, engaging style. While Beckett’s creation is a light, fun read (& clearly not “serious” literature), the author displays the ability to write books of greater substance and profundity: heavyweight, soul-searching works with deep meanings. Hence, some readers and critics have chastised Beckett for wasting his talent writing fluff. Clearly, Gordon would urge him to aspire for more. Nevertheless, I applaud and cherish this witty, escapist yarn for being just what it is – an adventure that diverted me, for one cold, gray weekend, from some of life’s uglier realities. Rating = 91/100.
August 11, 2016
I really loved this book. It was full of exciting chase scenes, hidden riddles, exotic scenery, and delectable foods. It is especially good for people who are interested in history and the Bible. I particularly like that it doesn't spoonfeed the readers. I'm so sick of these commercial books that treat me like a child. I like to have a chance to figure some things out for myself -- this book allowed me to do that. But it ties things together in the end, which was great since there were a few things I hadn't figured out. I saw this is entered in the category for Best First [Novel] in Series. I think that means that a sequel is planned! I really hope so -- the was the most intelligently written piece of commercial fiction that I've read in a LONG time. If you like excitement and intrigue along with intelligent writing, you're in for a treat with this one!
October 19, 2013
Archaeology, Israel, Bible times, prophecy, ruins, travel, fast action, good vs. evil, exciting characters, wealth beyond belief, cyber- technology, story twists, fun word puzzles for levity and for quiet thinking....
Like I have said in another review, I don't like to write 'book reports'. This is a great story and the only reason I couldn't read it straight through was the need of sleep!!
Highly recommended. This is David Becketts debut novel. I'm anxiously awaiting his next one.
For another outstanding archaeology novel you should check out "The Winds of the Gods", also a debut novel by Richard N. Funk.
I have NOT usurped Mr. Beckett, but this book made me think of Mr. Funks style and story line.
Like I have said in another review, I don't like to write 'book reports'. This is a great story and the only reason I couldn't read it straight through was the need of sleep!!
Highly recommended. This is David Becketts debut novel. I'm anxiously awaiting his next one.
For another outstanding archaeology novel you should check out "The Winds of the Gods", also a debut novel by Richard N. Funk.
I have NOT usurped Mr. Beckett, but this book made me think of Mr. Funks style and story line.
July 30, 2013
I particularly enjoyed the historical aspect of the book. It is captivating to see how Beckett has woven fantastic historical figures into the backstory. He really is an AMAZING writer – this story would be so incredible on the big screen!! My favorite part of Forrest Gump was seeing how famous historical figures entered into Forrest’s life. The Cana Mystery generates the same appeal – the audience is left in great anticipation to see what amazing figure will work into the backstory next. This would be a fantastic book for a Book Club to discuss!
August 25, 2014
Incredibly well written mystery about the search for the lost jars of Cana with heaping doses of church history spoon fed throughout. As a cradle Catholic, I was intrigued from the beginning although I will admit that not knowing my religious heritage made it difficult to follow at times. Taking the time to research made the read entertaining as well as informative. If you like mysteries, which incorporate early religious history, travelogues, and likeable characters, this intricately interwoven plot might be well worth the time you put into it.
November 13, 2014
Book Source:Netgalley
Part Indiana Jones, part Da Vinci Code; the Cana mystery is a thrilling read, especially the scenes set in present day. The chapters that went back in time were important to the plot, though they weren't quite as exciting as the ones set today. The story kept me well entertained, though. The author seems to have done his homework and it shows. If you like historical thrillers I think you'd enjoy this. It also had a nice touch of romance with resourceful, intelligent characters.
Part Indiana Jones, part Da Vinci Code; the Cana mystery is a thrilling read, especially the scenes set in present day. The chapters that went back in time were important to the plot, though they weren't quite as exciting as the ones set today. The story kept me well entertained, though. The author seems to have done his homework and it shows. If you like historical thrillers I think you'd enjoy this. It also had a nice touch of romance with resourceful, intelligent characters.
September 24, 2013
My wife reads lot of crap chick-lit (just kidding!) but when she insisted I read this new book I did not expect anything I would actually enjoy. Surprisingly, it turned out to be an intelligent, exciting mystery with good male characters as well as female. I spotted references to The Godfather and Star Wars mixed into the fast paced story. The romance plot was predictable but not too sappy like many. Unique villians and very accurate descriptions. Good for a family audience.
February 19, 2014
Purchased based on positive reviews in The Times of Malta & the San Antonio Express-News. I agree with both that book is exciting, well-written, & fun. Must echo others who said Beckett did a lot of research and I enjoyed the novel’s climactic final act. It’s funny how some want to attack this book just because it's getting popular. Good “mystery” for a chilly night. Like original raiders of the lost ark but less gory (no one’s face gets melted off!) I would read sequel"
May 15, 2014
Good and surprisingly funny in moments
I recommend for 2 reasons: this book won the 2014 National Medal (Best Suspense/Thriller) from the Independent Publishers Association. I try to support independent press -- not just corporate. Also, it’s a decent, engaging thriller & actually funny at times.
I expect to laugh and spray coffee when I read Tina Fey, David Seddaris, Steve Martin, BJ novak + a few others. When I read mystery, historical fiction/ thrillers, I never laugh – unless I’m laughing inside at a completely idiotic plot point. It’s not that fiction/thriller books don’t include proper jokes – most do. It’s that the jokes, generally speaking, are awful. Some char. will make a dorky observation (or perhaps utter something mildly amusing), & the book will say “the whole group EXPLODED into laughter” or depict some other equally implausible reaction. Since the lame joke is something the “droll” author might say, she, or, much more likely, HE, finds it hilarious. In his mind, it would go over huge. In reality, it would bomb. It is a bad sign when a person succumbs to hysterics, laughing at his own jokes. Professional novelists are mostly introverts. The historical fiction genre does not offer many good jokes b/c (1) humor is hard, and (2) most fiction writers are nerds: smart, good w/ facts and (I hope) grammar, good at making up a plot, & describing settings and action. Some may be witty, but exceedingly few are actually funny. I mean funny = piss-your-panties Borat funny. Three successful writers who are never ever funny: Dan Brown, Tom Clancy, Orson Scott Card. Beckett seems to be an exception. His book is not rip-roaring, Will-Farrell-old-school-hilarious, but I LOLLed a few times. Reading a mystery/thriller, that’s rare. Overall: Good adventure with one or two silly parts. Rating 9/10 & two thumbs up.
I recommend for 2 reasons: this book won the 2014 National Medal (Best Suspense/Thriller) from the Independent Publishers Association. I try to support independent press -- not just corporate. Also, it’s a decent, engaging thriller & actually funny at times.
I expect to laugh and spray coffee when I read Tina Fey, David Seddaris, Steve Martin, BJ novak + a few others. When I read mystery, historical fiction/ thrillers, I never laugh – unless I’m laughing inside at a completely idiotic plot point. It’s not that fiction/thriller books don’t include proper jokes – most do. It’s that the jokes, generally speaking, are awful. Some char. will make a dorky observation (or perhaps utter something mildly amusing), & the book will say “the whole group EXPLODED into laughter” or depict some other equally implausible reaction. Since the lame joke is something the “droll” author might say, she, or, much more likely, HE, finds it hilarious. In his mind, it would go over huge. In reality, it would bomb. It is a bad sign when a person succumbs to hysterics, laughing at his own jokes. Professional novelists are mostly introverts. The historical fiction genre does not offer many good jokes b/c (1) humor is hard, and (2) most fiction writers are nerds: smart, good w/ facts and (I hope) grammar, good at making up a plot, & describing settings and action. Some may be witty, but exceedingly few are actually funny. I mean funny = piss-your-panties Borat funny. Three successful writers who are never ever funny: Dan Brown, Tom Clancy, Orson Scott Card. Beckett seems to be an exception. His book is not rip-roaring, Will-Farrell-old-school-hilarious, but I LOLLed a few times. Reading a mystery/thriller, that’s rare. Overall: Good adventure with one or two silly parts. Rating 9/10 & two thumbs up.
October 20, 2013
I got hooked on this book when I read the Kindle sample download -- I could see the author was setting me up for a great tale with one of my favorite combinations of ingredients: exotic locals, arcane knowledge, archaeology, action, and romance. But, I'll be honest, based on the sample, I wondered if the book would deliver on the promise.
I just finished it and must say that I was totally hooked. Once the action got started, it just didn't stop, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. About 2/3 of the way through, I realized that this book reminded me a lot of Katherine Neville's blockbuster, The Eight. I've been looking for another book like The Eight ever since I first read it 15 or 20 years ago, and The Cana Mystery is the closest I've ever come -- and this novel doesn't have to drag in hokey space aliens at the end to keep things interesting. Clive Cussler fans who wish his tales had a little more heart will also enjoy The Cana Mystery.
I really grew to like the central characters, so I'm glad Beckett leaves a few loose ends, which I hope will be tied together in Ava and Paul's next adventure together.
I just finished it and must say that I was totally hooked. Once the action got started, it just didn't stop, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. About 2/3 of the way through, I realized that this book reminded me a lot of Katherine Neville's blockbuster, The Eight. I've been looking for another book like The Eight ever since I first read it 15 or 20 years ago, and The Cana Mystery is the closest I've ever come -- and this novel doesn't have to drag in hokey space aliens at the end to keep things interesting. Clive Cussler fans who wish his tales had a little more heart will also enjoy The Cana Mystery.
I really grew to like the central characters, so I'm glad Beckett leaves a few loose ends, which I hope will be tied together in Ava and Paul's next adventure together.
December 28, 2015
I can't believe I read this for two weeks. That's a record.
The Cana Mystery intrigued me right from the start.
The plot is great. Though I can't say the mystery is something that impressed me. You know that I'm a big mystery fan. Anyway, the whole thing was new, unique, and something I've never read before.
I'm not all into the Christian stuff but the history part in relation with the religion was interesting.
I love the characters. They were easy to connect to though I can't say the romance has a real base. I'm still in favor of them tho. Yes, I ship Gabe and Jess, too.
The writing was good. And the plot itself was interesting.
There were lots of action scenes and there were lots of moments were your heart will be racing, lots of running, and hiding, and gunshots, and flying, and money, and bombs, and history lessons.
I love the friendship factor and a few words here and there.
Overall, the story is something else. Perfect for people who dig action, and serious yet fun read with a little twist of romance.
The Cana Mystery intrigued me right from the start.
The plot is great. Though I can't say the mystery is something that impressed me. You know that I'm a big mystery fan. Anyway, the whole thing was new, unique, and something I've never read before.
I'm not all into the Christian stuff but the history part in relation with the religion was interesting.
I love the characters. They were easy to connect to though I can't say the romance has a real base. I'm still in favor of them tho. Yes, I ship Gabe and Jess, too.
The writing was good. And the plot itself was interesting.
There were lots of action scenes and there were lots of moments were your heart will be racing, lots of running, and hiding, and gunshots, and flying, and money, and bombs, and history lessons.
I love the friendship factor and a few words here and there.
Overall, the story is something else. Perfect for people who dig action, and serious yet fun read with a little twist of romance.
July 14, 2013
A female Jack Ryan battles the Antichrist.
David Beckett’s debut novel is an ambitious work that never disappoints, weaving a tale that connects the jars from the wedding feast at Cana to the election of a new pope and the threat of the Antichrist. His fast-moving plot rivals Ludlum but he doesn’t sacrifice literary prose. The religious intrigue reminds one of Dan Brown but with greater veracity. Fans of Tim Lahaye will be intrigued by the novel’s premise. Beckett takes us from Boston to Rome and from Capri to Malta with ease, providing details worthy of a seasoned guide and then, he offers the kind of technical details that would make Clancy or WEB Griffin proud. I made the mistake of starting the book after a night on call, but I couldn’t close my tired eyes until I finished. I hope there’ll be many more adventures for the linguist Ava, his brilliant puzzle solver.
David Beckett’s debut novel is an ambitious work that never disappoints, weaving a tale that connects the jars from the wedding feast at Cana to the election of a new pope and the threat of the Antichrist. His fast-moving plot rivals Ludlum but he doesn’t sacrifice literary prose. The religious intrigue reminds one of Dan Brown but with greater veracity. Fans of Tim Lahaye will be intrigued by the novel’s premise. Beckett takes us from Boston to Rome and from Capri to Malta with ease, providing details worthy of a seasoned guide and then, he offers the kind of technical details that would make Clancy or WEB Griffin proud. I made the mistake of starting the book after a night on call, but I couldn’t close my tired eyes until I finished. I hope there’ll be many more adventures for the linguist Ava, his brilliant puzzle solver.
September 16, 2013
SUPERB UNPREDICTABLE PLOT
I heard about this novel praised on EWTN radio. It took me a while to find one (amazon sold out) but I finally ordered one from the publisher in Boston. I enjoyed the book's characters, mystery and unpredictability. Like others said, it was sort of an Indiana Jones mixed with Da Vinci Code. I also like the hacker angle and the prophecy which referenced Nostradamus. As a criticism, some chapters seemed more like a fast-paced action movie/ techno thriller than serious literature, although several parts had excellent descriptions and good romantic chemistry. This could be adapted into a good film with a smart & sexy lead actress.
I heard about this novel praised on EWTN radio. It took me a while to find one (amazon sold out) but I finally ordered one from the publisher in Boston. I enjoyed the book's characters, mystery and unpredictability. Like others said, it was sort of an Indiana Jones mixed with Da Vinci Code. I also like the hacker angle and the prophecy which referenced Nostradamus. As a criticism, some chapters seemed more like a fast-paced action movie/ techno thriller than serious literature, although several parts had excellent descriptions and good romantic chemistry. This could be adapted into a good film with a smart & sexy lead actress.
October 21, 2013
Got an ad in my inbox from Tuscany Press for a free e-book. I don't usually respond to those, but I was getting ready for a plane flight and this looked like it could be a good, rather easy read. Downloaded it, and started it on my way home. Great story. Lots of action, tied both to history and current events. The main characters are pretty incredible, but in the sense of people whom you would like to know--brilliant, witty, caring, honest. Faced with challenges they understand only pieces of, they struggle to make choices based on those deeper values that guide their lives. Isn't that what all of us are trying to do? Really enjoyed this. Look forward to Beckett's next effort.
January 8, 2014
This was a good story but the male character seemed too perfect. He was an athlete and he seems too smart. Of course he is also chivalrous and protective hero like in a typical romance. Just as someone else wrote, it could be considered a steriotype. The main chacater (female) is super smart and she is the one I actually liked. Other than that, I enjoyed the book. Very cinematic. It was well written with a good plot and I look forward to the sequel. An Excellent book that men and women will both like.
September 1, 2013
The author includes lots of details in this book -- specific hotels and restaurants, menu selections, directions, historical events, etc. So when I was bored one day, I decided to Google some of the details. Everything I searched came up as 100% true! I don't know how the author got so many things right, but it's uncanny. This is a great story any way, but it took it to a whole new level when I saw how many things in this book are true.
March 25, 2014
Enjoyed it immensely as I love travel and David did a great job in weaving the scenery into this very adventurous mystery. As one reader described it "its Indiana Jones" mixed with Da Vinci Code. The historical aspects of the jars was well written without boring you to death. The characters were very colorful and strong. I've been to Malta but after reading this book I want to go back and explore it even more.
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