Matt McAvoy Book Review

A good instalment to Gary’s Magdalene Chronicles, which takes a little while to gain traction, but when it does, The Magdalene Veil establishes itself well within the series.  If he were to choose to leave it as a trilogy, this episode would present a very worthy and satisfying conclusion, but I suspect there is much more to come from this intriguing group of characters, as well as the genuinely alluring arch villains.  I’ve been fortunate enough to review the whole series so far, and I will say that is accomplished work indeed, which will definitely be of interest to those who like mystery suspense books, particularly those with a theological theme. 

The puzzle element of this book (which is Gary’s trademark, Dan Brown style) is perhaps a little thinner in this instalment, which takes rather a more formulaic thriller approach; with kidnapping, murderous antagonists and military action it is tiny bit more gung-ho at times, but it is done well, and a very welcome ingredient at this stage of the series.  Along with the theological credentials of Robert Langdon, The Magdalene Veil puts as its focal point an artefact which would intrigue Indiana Jones himself, not to mention his traditional Nazi occultist enemies, who feature heavily in the storyline – the action, though, when it comes, is perhaps a touch more authentic and Clancy-like.  I did feel that maybe plotlines which were carried across, and references to events and characters of previous books, weren’t indulged as much as they could have been, but I suspect by now that Gary is slowly building a loyal following – I do hope so; his quality writing, theological research and knowledge, and his attention to detail, regarding both the fictional and factual elements of his work, deserve no less.  This author is a good professional and even better value.  If you like intelligent, cosy mystery, with a touch of action and intrigue, I highly recommend giving the Magdalene series a go.