In his second novel, The Vatican's Vault, Dr. Barry Libin offers a thriller that has something to say, though that never gets in the way of a unique and original story which combines elements of the police procedural with high adventure. A mysterious fire that involves Saint Patrick's Cathedral interlocks with a search for a lost treasure in the title place, a hidden spot rarely visited by others than the Pope's chosen few. Opera, Catholicism and Judaic thought are combined in a totally original way, as the author reveals his sophisticated understanding of each in addition to his natural gifts at storytelling. Highly recommended. --Douglas Brode, The Planet Jesus Trilogy
The Vatican's Vault has a fascinating storyline that covers 3500 years of history. A well-written thriller. It touches a deep fear in people's minds - the fear of the Catholic Church and it's old and mysterious orders. And it refers to our curiosity about old treasures. The Vatican's Vault joins a big family of bestselling books and movies - from Godfather to Indiana Jones and Da Vinci Code. --Nahum Barnea, Chief Columnist for Yedioth Ahronoth, Israel's largest daily; Winner of the State of Israel Prize for communication.
John Henry Newman, one of the 19th century's greatest theologians, once wrote "The Church is ever ailing ... Religion seems ever expiring, schisms dominant, the light of truth dim, its adherents scattered." In light of Newman's insight, I have read and enjoyed Dr. Libin's fictional tale, with its psychologically interesting characters and a thoroughly provocative plot. He seamlessly weaves together ideas and practices from the ancient and modern world into a fantastic tapestry of mystery, betrayal, and intrigue. -- Daniel P. Agatino, JD, Ph.D., M.S., Theology, The College of Saint Elizabeth
"A riveting mystery that I wish were twice as long." --Nicholas Gura author of Divine Wisdom and Warning: Decoded Messages From God