Suspense in 'Lion of Babylon' Will Keep You Up Late, Says Reviewer
By Beckie Burnham
Guest Reviewer
*This review was originally published on Beckie's blog, By the Book. Reprinted with permission from the author.
Davis Bunn has written another edge-of-your-seat, international suspense novel that will have the reader staying up way too late! Lion of Babylon takes place in modern day Iraq, but the the country's past has always been part of its present. Following centuries of war, occupation and despotic leaders, Iraq is poised to create a modern democracy among its Muslim neighbors. But many within Iraq's own government, not to mention the governments and corporations of the US and Iran, do not want this new Alliance to succeed. Enter Marc Royce, a former intelligence agent turned forensic accountant, who is determined to rescue his best friend who is unexplainably missing.
Along the way Marc befriends Sameh, a lawyer and Christian, Jaffar, the Shia Grand Imam's son , and Hamid, a Sunni prison guard who once led the Bagdad police version of a SWAT team. While becoming a friend to Iraqis of different backgrounds may seem normal to an American, the reader soon learns that Americans are viewed with attitudes of distrust, fear and dislike that are often impossible to overcome. But over and over, Marc proves himself not only worthy of trust, but of the title of Lion (lugal) — a warrior ready to defend the nation.
Bunn captures the country and people of Iraq. The war-torn remnants of buildings and lives are vividly presented. There is a certain weariness and despair that permeates the atmosphere and the characters. But hope shines through in the determination of those who desire a free Iraq. I especially was moved by the underground church scene. People from all backgrounds — social and religious — joined together in worship of Jesus, not adherence to ritual or rules of religion.
Lion of Babylon is a great book for anyone looking for suspense, political intrigue or just a good story well told. It is also a wonderful novel for anyone desiring to understand just what is happening in the Middle East today, especially Iraq.
Recommended.
About Beckie Burnham: I am a wife and mother of 3 nearly grown children — at least they think so — Daniel 21, Allison 19 and Thomas 18. I live in middle Georgia with my husband of 26 years, Brian. I work part time as book keeper for my husband's veterinary business. My favorite things besides my family are tea, books and cats. My kids joke I will end up with 20 cats running through stacks of books, while I sit sipping tea! We have a one dog and 2 cats. I have been reviewing books for 1 1/2 years and consider it part of what God has called me to do for Him. Visit Beckie at By The Book.
