Back in 2011 I reviewed “Toward the Gleam” by T.M. Doran. I enjoyed it a lot, but sometimes it takes further thought to determine how good a book is. This is one that stayed with me as I remember substantial parts of the plot and thinking back on it returns that enjoyment. A nice mix of fantastic elements in the plot along with a protagonist finding himself unraveling the mystery involved while facing increasing danger.
There is now a sequel to this book called The Lucifer Ego. If you had read and enjoyed Toward the Gleam than I believe you would enjoy the sequel. This book has some of the same elements but set in the years after the first book.
Frodo Lyle Stuart is looking forward to his sabbatical, hoping to unearth evidence that will add new lustre to his reputation as a first-rate archaeologist. But Lyle’s Uncle Henry, abbot of a nearby monastery, has other plans, recruiting him to track down a stolen artifact—a manuscript of unimaginable antiquity his uncle believes is the source for the greatest work of literary imagination in the 20th century.
There is a bit of an Indian Jones quality as the skeptical Lyle gets in over his head trying to retrieve the artifact. Plenty of twists and turns along the way with some very interesting ideas involved. Certainly enough complexities to keep you on your toes. Recommended, and now I want to go back and re-read the first novel.
