Apr 14, 2011

Book Review: The Summoner by Layton Green

The Summoner: (The Dominic Grey Novels) (Volume 1)
Paperback: 332 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (March 7, 2011)
Source: review copy from the author
Genre: thriller
Objective rating: 4.75/5

Comments: This thriller was compelling. I learned about black magic in its many forms in vodoo, juju, candomble, and especially the Yoruba culture and magic of Nigeria. The novel is set in Zimbabwe, where a Yoruba witchdoctor from Nigeria has formed a cult of followers, using sorcery and sacrifice in its secret ceremonies in the empty bushland.

I also learnt about the power a figure can have over others using persuasion and by preying on the minds of followers to believe in what they see and hear. The novel is gripping and the setting unusual, perfect for this story.

Product Description: "A United States diplomat disappears in front of hundreds of onlookers while attending a religious ceremony in the bushveld of Zimbabwe.

Dominic Grey, Diplomatic Security special agent, product of a violent childhood and a worn passport, is assigned to investigate. Aiding the investigation is Professor Viktor Radek, religious phenomenologist and expert on cults, and Nya Mashumba, the local government liaison.

What Grey uncovers is a terrifying cult older than Western civilization, the harsh underbelly of a country in despair, a priest seemingly able to perform impossibilities, and the identity of the newest target.

Himself . . . "

Other reviews of the book: Reflections of a Bookaholic, Fiction Books

4 comments:

  1. This sounds like it has all of the elements for a thrilling read. Nice review.

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  2. I'm currently reading the book and I think I love it thus far!Glad you like it too!

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  3. Hi Harvee,

    Thanks for visiting my site and for the link, it is much appreciated.

    This has to be one of the best books I have read in a long time and I am just glad that the author requested me to review, or I may never have got to hear about it.

    Hopefully he is already working on the next Dominic Grey adventure and we won't have to wait too long!!

    Yvonne

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  4. I have this one waiting to be reviewed, too. Sounds interesting.

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