This book is about the Nazi quest to create supermen and what might have happened to the projects after the fall of the Third Reich. It is the perfect novel for those interested in the occult and esoteric nature of Hitler & Co. Toss in a bit of discussion of intelligent design, genetic manipulation and something called "The Bell" for good measure.
Rollins does have a way with words and is quite a good writer. Alas, the book does have a bit of schizo nature about it, veering between a standard action novel and something a bit more - at times a bit too much. Now it is possible that the publishers insist on a percentage of smash, bang and wallop but there are places where you wish things went a bit deeper.
That said, the tale takes us across four continents, from the auction rooms of Copenhagen to the wilds of South Africa to the frozen heights of Nepal. The characters are well thought-out and believable. Even the Nazis, both full-bore and post-Nazi, have something about them that makes them interesting and human.
This is a great page-turner, rewarding the reader whether or not you know about Himmler, and the SS and their quest to find the origins of the Aryan race. You can find plenty to keep you interested if you know nothing about the scientific experimentation going on in the Third Reich up until its last days. If you are in-the-know about the history, the facts do not detract from this enjoyable novel.
I am keen to explore Rollin's previous efforts, having found this a good read. It would make a great long journey book.
Article comments
1 - Katie McNeill
I think this sounds really great, I'll have to pick it up.