The Testament by Eric Van Lustbader

The Testament, a fast-paced thriller, begins with Bravo Shaw's father's death in the first few pages and sets out on a whirlwind quest as Bravo follows the intricate web of clues that his father has set up, leading him to his father's long-held secrets. This journey will take him from New York to Venice, Paris, the Normandy coast, Rome, and eventually to the Trabzon region of Turkey.

Love and Betrayal

Early on, he learns that his father was one of the leaders of the Gnostic Observatines, an order that dates back to the time of St. Francis of Assisi whose purpose it is to guard the long-lost Testament of Christ and other secrets. As Bravo travels throughout Europe, he unlocks clue after clue -- ciphers that only he, with his years of training at his father's side, can interpret. With him is Jenny Logan, a Keeper sent to protect him from the Knights of St. Clement that would have the Testament for themselves. Jenny's strength and vulnerability are a powerful draw for Bravo, but can he trust her? If fact, can he really trust anyone around him?

The Cache of Secrets

Bravo follows his father's chain of mysteries until he comes to the brink of learning the true meaning of the cache of secrets. Behind him, lies a dead priest, among many others. When it's time to uncover the truth, will those closest to him betray him? How they betrayed him already?

The Testament is an enthralling novel, in the style of the Da Vinci Code. As with Dan Brown's novel, it sends you heading for the Internet and/or the encyclopedia to learn more about the history and facts on which the story is built. I, for one, was not familiar with the rich and fascinating history and culture of the Trabzon region of northern Turkey until I read the novel. That The Testament is well-researched is undeniable. It's also well-written with intriguing settings, interesting characters, and edge-of-your-chair action. I hope that we'll see more of Bravo Shaw in future novels.

About Eric Van Lustbader

Eric Van Lustbader is the author of over twenty science fiction novels and thrillers. He is perhaps best known for his 2004 Bourne Legacy, a continuation of the series originated by Robert Ludlum. The latest book in that series, the Bourne Betrayal, was published in June of 2007. Mr. Van Lustbader and his wife are residents of Long Island.