Review: Destiny (Rogue Angel #1) by Alex Archer

SUMMARY FROM GOODREADS.COM:

An ancient order tied to the Vatican . . . A blood fortune buried in the caves of France . . . A conspiracy of power, greed and darkest evil . . .

Archaeologist and explorer Annja Creed's fascination with the myths and mysteries of the past leads her to a crypt in the caves of France, where the terrifying legend of the Beast of Gevaudin hints at the unimaginable. What she discovers is shattering: an artifact that will seal her destiny: a brotherhood of monks willing to murder to protect their secret; and a powerful black-market occultist desperate to put his own claim to centuries-old blood money. Annja embarks on a high-tension race across Europe and history itself, intent on linking the unholy treachery of the ages with the staggering revelations of the present. But she must survive the shadow figures determined to silence her threat to their existence.

MY TAKE:

I'm a huge fan of young adult books or any fiction book, for that matter, where I learn something new. Destiny certainly fits the bill.

Annja Creed is an archaeologist and part-time TV personality who hosts Chasing History's Monsters. While on assignment for the show, Annja stumbles upon an incredible secret that a lot of dangerous men are after. No problem, of course, for kick-butt Annja, if only she knew every piece of the puzzle.

Annja is like the Lara Croft of the archaeology world. Not exactly the most believable character, but if you're willing to suspend reality for a moment, she's an okay heroine.

What's great about this book, for me, is all the historical details and facts. I've always been fascinated with history so this book was perfect for me. Of course, with all the details and stories, it's sometimes hard to tell which is truth and which is fiction.

The book is also action-packed, which is great and would translate well onscreen. However, it's much too gory for my taste. The guys would probably like this, though.

All in all, this book is a page-turner. I'm eager to read the next book in the series.

THE GOOD:

1. You'll learn a lot of new things.
2. It reads like an action movie.
3. Annja makes you wanna kick some butt.

THE BAD:

1. The language and writing style is very simple, definitely meant for a younger audience.
2. The action scenes are not for the faint of heart.
3. Some readers may find the constant history lessons distracting or even condescending.

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

"You're probably right. The world has forgotten more than anyone alive today will ever know." Roux talked as if he were an authority on that line of thinking.

READ IT IF:

• You like thrillers.
• You like history.
• You like strong (almost perfect) heroines.

RATING:

SOUNDS INTERESTING?