Remember, one of the two authors, Jacques Ravenna is a Freemason, hence the many clarifications and details regarding the operation of their order. This is also one of the strengths of this novel, which makes the most realistic, it is precisely this reality in the operation of Freemasonry.
First, the authors plunge us in full World War II and there we discover a character that will be important in the rest of the book. We also see the Masons killing in a ritual similar to the death of Hiram. This same ritual that will be used in the murders occurring in the present. Are these deaths are related? This is part of the puzzles which will face the hero. Beyond the dead, the largest plot will concern the archive documents on which the victim was working in Rome. For the content of these documents, a race will be held between the Freemasons and the Thule Society. What is the secret? The ritual of the shadows.
Here is the plot of this novel that artfully blends police investigation and mystical research. Eric Giacometti works hard with Jacques Ravenna that one is absorbed in the heart of the story and they get there in the most beautiful way. I was absolutely thrilled with this quest for the truth.
Moreover, the character of Antoine Marcas has all of the scholar remaining nevertheless a field man. On that side, I am a little thought to the heroes of films combining adventure and quest of sacred objects and they are characters that I love.
The other main character, the female lead we say to stay in the world of cinema, Jade Zewinski, makes me think of a hothead, such a small "Rambo". She is ready to rush into the crowd to avenge the death of her friend. His hatred of the Freemasons also adds a conflicting side to this duo.
At this level, therefore, then, the authors have spoiled us. Because even the enemies side, personalities are strong. See Sol, with its heavy past, or the killer Joana. All the ingredients for us to imagine these characters brought to the screen are there.
The story has nothing to envy nor to "Da Vinci Code" and other so-called esoteric thrillers because the plot is carried out efficiently and well put together. The twists bring their answers and lots of new questions. It is a sprint that are committed to the final as we look forward to discover the truth. And what a final, you will say. Esotericism culminated with the discovery of this Ritual shade and use. The only downside to this outcome is the way is treated the fate of Sol. This would have earned, I think, something much stronger.
So I highly recommend this novel to all fans of thrillers that combines investigation and mysticism. And I must say that seeing this story adapted for the screen does not displease me.
