Map of Bones

by James Rollins
Map of Bones cover
Good Books rating 3.87
Thriller/Suspense
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Technical
  • ID: 9282
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-23
  • ISBN: 9781409105862
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2008-09-18
  • Reviews: 3

When a group of parishioners is burned to death in a German cathedral, SIGMA Force is called in to investigate. The priceless treasure stored in the cathedral's golden reliquary—the bones of the biblical Three Kings—has been stolen. Commander Gray Pierce leads a team on a high-stakes hunt for the Royal Dragon Court, a clandestine aristocratic fraternity of alchemists that dates back to the Middle Ages. Their goal is to establish a new world order using the mystical bones. Pierce and his team follow a trail that leads from Europe's Gothic cathedrals through the remnants of the seven wonders of the ancient world to a mystical place where science and religion unite to unleash a threat not seen since the beginning of time itself. This heart-stopping thriller from New York Times bestselling author James Rollins combines historical intrigue, cutting-edge science, and pulse-pounding action. As SIGMA Force races against time, they must decipher ancient secrets and confront a foe that threatens the very fabric of humanity.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-12-23
educational 4.10

The book is praised for its educational value and the inclusion of biblical and historical references. The reviewer finds the research excellent and the story engaging.

This reviewer found the book to be highly educational, appreciating the extensive research that went into it. The biblical and historical references are particularly noteworthy, adding depth to the story. They enjoyed the visits to various locations, such as Maryland, which added a layer of authenticity. The blend of fact and fiction is well-balanced, making it an enjoyable read for those who appreciate a mix of history and thriller elements. The reviewer's overall impression is positive, highlighting the book's ability to educate and entertain simultaneously.

Quick quotes

    I learned so much from this book and found Rollins' research to be excellent.

    I also liked the biblical and historical references and the visits to Maryland.

    A very good read with a mix of fact and fiction blended together.

Writer on the Run · 2023-05-31
engaging 4.00

The book is compared to Dan Brown novels for its intrigue and mystery, particularly around the Vatican. The reviewer finds it engaging and well-researched.

This book is often likened to the works of Dan Brown, especially in its exploration of Vatican mysteries and historical intrigue. The reviewer appreciates the detailed research and the way it keeps the reader engaged throughout. They highlight the blend of fact and fiction, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy thrillers with a historical twist. The pacing and character development are noted as strong points, contributing to an enjoyable and thought-provoking experience.

Quick quotes

    Map of Bones by James Rollins deserves four stars.

    In many ways, it follows along the same intrigue as the Dan Brown novels of the mysteries of the Vatican.

    The story keeps a good pace and has a good mix of characters to keep you involved.

Cheap Thrills Book Blog · 2013-05-07
thrilling 3.50

The book is described as a typical James Rollins thriller with fast-paced action and a mix of history and science. The reviewer enjoys the 'what if' scenarios presented.

This reviewer describes the book as a typical James Rollins thriller, characterized by its fast-paced action and a blend of historical and scientific elements. They appreciate the 'what if' scenarios that Rollins presents, which add an intriguing layer to the story. The reviewer finds the book to be entertaining and engaging, with a good balance of action and intellectual stimulation. The pacing is noted as one of the book's strengths, keeping the reader hooked from start to finish. Overall, it's a thrilling read that combines adventure with thought-provoking scenarios.

Quick quotes

    It's a pretty typical James Rollins thriller — fast-paced, lots of action, bits of history and science, combined with a lot of what if.

    The story keeps a good pace and has a good mix of characters to keep you involved.

    There's a bit of depth with the science stuff.

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