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This book is a fine example of how writers take inspiration from their contemporaries and try to capitalize on popular sentiments. The timing of this book coincides with the mass frenzy that gripped the popular imagination following the release of Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code.
Unlike the usual gripping medical thrillers Robin Cook churns out, this plot for this one relies heavily on Christian beliefs, mainly the mystery surrounding the Virgin Mary and the birth of Jesus. The imagery included in this section, mainly that of the Vatican, is impressive.
Alternative medicine provides another major support for the storyline. The author has done a very good comparison of the points where it scores over traditional medicine while adequately highlighting the risks or drawbacks that accompany it.
The personal sufferings of the main protagonist Jack Stapleton also find a mention in the plot. And it is his relationship with his old college buddies that binds the story together.
The initial chapters are mediocre with the story starting to gather steam towards the climax but the unexpected gives it a incomplete feeling not unlike one of a cliffhanger.
Interestingly, Robin Cook explores the presence of extremist groups within the folds of Christianity. Most of us would associate fanaticism with Islam but the author debunks that myth. His irreverent approach almost makes one wonder about his religious loyalties which almost border on atheism.
If you are a hardcore fan of the medical stuff that makes Robin Cook click, better skip this one.
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