Cultures throughout Europe believed there was once a gospel written in Christ's own hand, a treasure of almost unimaginable magnitude. It was referred to by the Cathar culture in France, who claimed to be direct descendants of Christ, as The Book of Love. But the teachings in The Book of Love were radical and contrary to the political agenda of the Church. Papal forces launched one of the bloodiest crusades in history against the Cathars in an effort to wipe out their 'heresy' - and to gain possession of the original, incendiary manuscript - a document so revolutionary that its contents would be considered ground-breaking and visionary 2000 years later. In The Book of Love, Maureen Paschal continues her journey of discovery begun in The Expected One, following evidence in stone and stained glass, clues left 800 years ago by the ancient architects of the great Gothic cathedrals of Europe. As Maureen and her team get closer to the truth, they find themselves locked in the most ancient human struggle - the epic battle between good and evil.
This is book #2 of the "Magdalene Line Trilogy", I finished book #1 last week (The Expected One) and really enjoyed it, this one I didn't quite love as much. The first book had a good pace to it and the balance between present day story and past was perfect. Book #2 was much slower paced and the present day story really took a backseat in this book, I would have preferred more character development on that front. That being said I did really enjoy the story of Matilda, so not as good as the first in the series, but good enough that I will definitely be picking up book #3 when it comes out!!
