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Wayward Son
A POWERFUL TREMOR UNEARTHS AN ANCIENT SECRET
Buried near Italy's Mount Vesuvius is a fortified observatory containing artifacts dating to the earliest record of human events. Only one person, the Getty Museum's Amanda James can unlock the mysterious doors that guard the chamber. But once inside, Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorious Biblical killer; who long ago wandered off the pages of history. When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must confront sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation; before it alters the destiny of millions. The first in a series, Wayward Son, takes the reader back in time, where ancient adventures in Egypt, Greece, China and Rome collide with modern-day intrigue and suspense. Journey with Amanda and witness the incredible story of the world's original wayward son.
Buried near Italy's Mount Vesuvius is a fortified observatory containing artifacts dating to the earliest record of human events. Only one person, the Getty Museum's Amanda James can unlock the mysterious doors that guard the chamber. But once inside, Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorious Biblical killer; who long ago wandered off the pages of history. When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must confront sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation; before it alters the destiny of millions. The first in a series, Wayward Son, takes the reader back in time, where ancient adventures in Egypt, Greece, China and Rome collide with modern-day intrigue and suspense. Journey with Amanda and witness the incredible story of the world's original wayward son.
505 pages, Nook
First published April 5, 2011
24 people are currently reading
1275 people want to read
About the author
Tom Pollack
2 books44 followersVisit my website http://www.waywardsonnovel.com/
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A former member of the U.S. Sailing Team, Tom served from 2001 to 2007 as the CEO of the Transpac (TP) 52 sailboat racing class. During that time, he collaborated with His Majesty Juan Carlos, King of Spain and others, in the creation of the professional grand prix racing circuit known today as the Audi Medcup.
Tom’s close friendship with another TP52 owner, Roy Disney, led to the release in 2008 of Walt Disney Pictures’ critically acclaimed motion picture, Morning Light. The film is based on Tom’s original idea of filming the exploits of a group of high school and college-aged sailors recruited to compete against seasoned pros in the 2500 mile Transpac sailboat race from Los Angeles to Hawaii.
A Southern California native, Tom graduated from Loyola Marymount University and resides in Southern California with his wife and their two teenage children. Tom is the Chairman of the Board of ExplorOcean Newport Harbor Nautical Museum located in the heart of the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach. ExplorOcean which will put fun back into the 75 year old Fun Zone and generate a new wave of Ocean Exploration
with a iconic new building and totally redesigned waterfront including a brand new Ferris Wheel where you can dangle your toes over the water!
Follow me on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/Wayward.Son.N...
A former member of the U.S. Sailing Team, Tom served from 2001 to 2007 as the CEO of the Transpac (TP) 52 sailboat racing class. During that time, he collaborated with His Majesty Juan Carlos, King of Spain and others, in the creation of the professional grand prix racing circuit known today as the Audi Medcup.
Tom’s close friendship with another TP52 owner, Roy Disney, led to the release in 2008 of Walt Disney Pictures’ critically acclaimed motion picture, Morning Light. The film is based on Tom’s original idea of filming the exploits of a group of high school and college-aged sailors recruited to compete against seasoned pros in the 2500 mile Transpac sailboat race from Los Angeles to Hawaii.
A Southern California native, Tom graduated from Loyola Marymount University and resides in Southern California with his wife and their two teenage children. Tom is the Chairman of the Board of ExplorOcean Newport Harbor Nautical Museum located in the heart of the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach. ExplorOcean which will put fun back into the 75 year old Fun Zone and generate a new wave of Ocean Exploration
with a iconic new building and totally redesigned waterfront including a brand new Ferris Wheel where you can dangle your toes over the water!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
June 11, 2011
I received this book a part of a first-reads giveaway.
I found Wayward Son by Tom Pollack to be an ambitious, remarkable and epic novel. I enjoyed it from start to finish. There are plenty of plot twists and secrets to be revealed. When an ancient vault that has been buried for centuries is discovered in Ercolano, Italy near Mount Vesuvius Amanda James must figure out the key to unlocking its doors and discover what lies within. Once inside she has an incredible vision of another's life, a man who had incredibly lived through thousands of years and had a great impact on history. This novel asks a lot of what if questions about both biblical and secular history and about human nature. What if one man who committed a heinous act could live for millenia? Could he in all that time turn his life around and find redemption and peace? What kind of accomplishments could he acheive? What would it be like to outlive all his family and loved ones?
I don't usually read a lot of books with a religious nature or deal with biblical subjects, but I found the message here to be empasized just the right amout to be moving and inspirational without being too overdone. There was a lot of focus on the adventure of it all and the history it encompasses. For these reasons and many more this book could appeal to a wide audience.
I read on the back cover that this is a debut novel in a series. The novel seems complete in itself, so I'm not sure what direction the next novel would take...but I would be interested to read it and find out.
I found Wayward Son by Tom Pollack to be an ambitious, remarkable and epic novel. I enjoyed it from start to finish. There are plenty of plot twists and secrets to be revealed. When an ancient vault that has been buried for centuries is discovered in Ercolano, Italy near Mount Vesuvius Amanda James must figure out the key to unlocking its doors and discover what lies within. Once inside she has an incredible vision of another's life, a man who had incredibly lived through thousands of years and had a great impact on history. This novel asks a lot of what if questions about both biblical and secular history and about human nature. What if one man who committed a heinous act could live for millenia? Could he in all that time turn his life around and find redemption and peace? What kind of accomplishments could he acheive? What would it be like to outlive all his family and loved ones?
I don't usually read a lot of books with a religious nature or deal with biblical subjects, but I found the message here to be empasized just the right amout to be moving and inspirational without being too overdone. There was a lot of focus on the adventure of it all and the history it encompasses. For these reasons and many more this book could appeal to a wide audience.
I read on the back cover that this is a debut novel in a series. The novel seems complete in itself, so I'm not sure what direction the next novel would take...but I would be interested to read it and find out.
June 13, 2011
I was not a fan of this book. When the book opens you think it is going to be about something COMPLETELY different than what it really was about. I didn't have an issue with the biblical story portion of it, in fact I thought that it was kind of interesting, however the plot did not tie together very well between today's age and yesteryear and I was extremely disappointed by the ending.
I was excited by the premise but disappointed with the execution.
I was excited by the premise but disappointed with the execution.
August 30, 2012
"A Powerful Tremor Unearths an Ancient Secret. Buried near Italy’s Mt. Vesuvius is a fortified observatory containing artifacts dating to the earliest record of human events. Only one person—the Getty Museum’s Amanda James—can unlock the mysterious doors that guard the chamber. But once inside, Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorious Biblical killer—who long ago wandered off the pages of history. When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must confront sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation—before it alters the destiny of millions. The first novel in a series, Wayward Son propels the reader back in time, where epic adventures in Egypt, Greece, China and Rome collide with modern-day intrigue and suspense. Journey with Amanda and witness the extraordinary saga of the world's original Wayward Son!"
From the above synopsis the novel promises quite a bit! And having read it, actually having been consumed by the magnificent prose, I can say WAYWARD SON delivers big time!!
The characters are all spot on- Amanda James is a fully realized lead character and one the reader is happy to have as a companion on a most unforgetable adventure! The many varied locations are meticulously rendered with a deft hand, having some of the world's most amazing places literally pop off the page as Amanda (and the reader) encounter adventure, thrills and many twists and turns in a book I could not put down!
Now..IF THAT WAS NOT ENOUGH TO RECOMMEND THIS EXCELLENT BOOK...I had the most amazing EXPERIENCE reading WAYWARD SON - with READERPEDIA. A most facinating and unique application- UTTERLY AMAZING!!! The novel truly came alive with Readerpedia- a STUNNING new application that turns this superb book into an experience unlike any I have encountered before!
I was able to click on words, events, historical figures and locations and with the newly minted Readerpedia - these words came to life with not only detailed information but photos
and so much more- all customized for the book!! what an amazing experience!!!! I LOVED IT! and am VERY MUCH looking forward to reading more books with READERPEDIA - it is that stunning!!!
AN OFFICIAL JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB MUST READ
RICK FRIEDMAN
FOUNDER
THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
From the above synopsis the novel promises quite a bit! And having read it, actually having been consumed by the magnificent prose, I can say WAYWARD SON delivers big time!!
The characters are all spot on- Amanda James is a fully realized lead character and one the reader is happy to have as a companion on a most unforgetable adventure! The many varied locations are meticulously rendered with a deft hand, having some of the world's most amazing places literally pop off the page as Amanda (and the reader) encounter adventure, thrills and many twists and turns in a book I could not put down!
Now..IF THAT WAS NOT ENOUGH TO RECOMMEND THIS EXCELLENT BOOK...I had the most amazing EXPERIENCE reading WAYWARD SON - with READERPEDIA. A most facinating and unique application- UTTERLY AMAZING!!! The novel truly came alive with Readerpedia- a STUNNING new application that turns this superb book into an experience unlike any I have encountered before!
I was able to click on words, events, historical figures and locations and with the newly minted Readerpedia - these words came to life with not only detailed information but photos
and so much more- all customized for the book!! what an amazing experience!!!! I LOVED IT! and am VERY MUCH looking forward to reading more books with READERPEDIA - it is that stunning!!!
AN OFFICIAL JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB MUST READ
RICK FRIEDMAN
FOUNDER
THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
April 24, 2011
Received as an early review book from LibraryThing:
Wayward Son is a speculative, historical fiction account of the story of Cain after he slew his brother. In this book, Cain’s “curse” is an exceptionally long life that span eons and covers most of the Ancient world before the common era(BCE). This book is a Forrest Gump of biblical times in that you see the ”history” though Cain’s eyes. Unlike the character in Forrest Gump, Cain is portrayed as a very intelligent man, who is inventive, creative and has an excellent memory, who records his history for others. The book is tied to the present by the finding of his collections in an archeological dig in Hereculaneum .
I found this story to be fast paced and tinged with a bit of excitement. The history and details in the book were well researched and well placed, and added a colour and texture to the story that made it seem believable. It reminded me of
in these respects (pacing, richness of characters, plot, details of ancient history). Its major flaw (and why I gave it 3 stars instead of more) was that near the climax of the book, the story became disrupted by theology that felt a bit on the preachy side(but not as bad as some). It is definitely a work of Christian theology, though if I kept in mind that it was more a “fantasy fiction” piece, I could over come some the “moralization” that the book tried to impose, which felt a bit heavy handed and took away from the overall enjoyment of the story. If you are into Christian Fiction, then you may really enjoy it. Those into fantasy and historical fiction may be able to overcome this flaw(ie the preachy tone) in an otherwise very good book.
Wayward Son is a speculative, historical fiction account of the story of Cain after he slew his brother. In this book, Cain’s “curse” is an exceptionally long life that span eons and covers most of the Ancient world before the common era(BCE). This book is a Forrest Gump of biblical times in that you see the ”history” though Cain’s eyes. Unlike the character in Forrest Gump, Cain is portrayed as a very intelligent man, who is inventive, creative and has an excellent memory, who records his history for others. The book is tied to the present by the finding of his collections in an archeological dig in Hereculaneum .
I found this story to be fast paced and tinged with a bit of excitement. The history and details in the book were well researched and well placed, and added a colour and texture to the story that made it seem believable. It reminded me of
in these respects (pacing, richness of characters, plot, details of ancient history). Its major flaw (and why I gave it 3 stars instead of more) was that near the climax of the book, the story became disrupted by theology that felt a bit on the preachy side(but not as bad as some). It is definitely a work of Christian theology, though if I kept in mind that it was more a “fantasy fiction” piece, I could over come some the “moralization” that the book tried to impose, which felt a bit heavy handed and took away from the overall enjoyment of the story. If you are into Christian Fiction, then you may really enjoy it. Those into fantasy and historical fiction may be able to overcome this flaw(ie the preachy tone) in an otherwise very good book. 
June 30, 2011
On reading the promo, this book seemed to hold everything that I love to read about. Archaeology, History, Ancient Tombs, and a Mystery of Time! The actual story, however, had a start that wavered a bit too much for my tastes. We got to meet Amanda James and learned a bit of her history and I started to wonder where and how this would tie into the main "meat" of the book. When we finally got to it in Italy... the book veered completely away from her and the modern time of "today" to concentrate on Cain and his adventures through time. THAT is what the book is really about. In fact, everything else leading up to the introduction of Cain was nothing more than filler that was fleshed out for no real reason that I could tell. Knowing the history of Amanda (be it with her father, her boyfriend, or her boss) had nothing to do with Cain and what he had lived through and built. So why spend/ waste time trying to get to know her if she was nothing more than a footnote? For the big reveal at the end of yet another minor character? Sorry, that lost a lot of points for me. Especially as it all seemed to be for nothing more than a setup to a sequel.
If we stick to the main story of Cain, however, then I can tell you that I was really taken with his plight, his flight, and his many lives. The Egyptian, Chinese, and finally Roman lifetimes that we're brought into were so wonderfully matched with what we know of those times and era that I found every deviation back to "today" and Amanda extremely annoying. Fitting Cain in with historical and biblical events was well done and I kept reading on, wondering where it would go to next. If I could, I would take everything outside of the main Cain storyline out of the book and end it at the climatic battle.
If we stick to the main story of Cain, however, then I can tell you that I was really taken with his plight, his flight, and his many lives. The Egyptian, Chinese, and finally Roman lifetimes that we're brought into were so wonderfully matched with what we know of those times and era that I found every deviation back to "today" and Amanda extremely annoying. Fitting Cain in with historical and biblical events was well done and I kept reading on, wondering where it would go to next. If I could, I would take everything outside of the main Cain storyline out of the book and end it at the climatic battle.
October 6, 2014
Disapointing. Interesting permise nullified by cliche-ridden, awkward prose. Wooden, stereotypical cast. Too much back story, too much "product placement." On page 492 they were still idenfying Jaun's car as an "Alfa Romeo 8C Spider" and (on page 495) that Amanda was blonde. Many historical errors.
Authors need to enroll in a good writing program.
Authors need to enroll in a good writing program.
March 1, 2012
What a cool book I found WAYWARD SON to be. Such an interesting read that far exceeded what I’d expected. WAYWARD SON, truly a provides a full book within a book.
While I was initially intrigued by the impressive modern young surfing archeologist, Amanda James; in the end it was the biblically sampled story that gripped me. Being a Christian, I was particularly taken with Cain’s life. I loved how the authors cleverly weaved him into so many of the major historical and biblical events. What a thought provoking idea that Cain, with whom no one knows his date of death, actually truly “wondered” for thousands of years along side of others we’ve come to know through bible stories.
I have to admit, I so didn’t want Cain’s fascinating story to end, that I really drew out this read, which I could have easily devoured in a couple of days. There was just so much information to take in and captivating history that I only read it when I could devote my full attention, optioning to put it aside and read something else while in a more distracting environments.
Just an amazingly well executed adventure by Orange County authors Tom Pollack, Jim Alves, and John Loftus. I’m excited to see what happens next in this unique and engaging series that is wholly appropriate for readers of all ages. A truly compelling read, weather you’re religious or not…even with its content of biblical history, WAYWARD SON is not a not “preachy” story. Highly recommend, well done.
While I was initially intrigued by the impressive modern young surfing archeologist, Amanda James; in the end it was the biblically sampled story that gripped me. Being a Christian, I was particularly taken with Cain’s life. I loved how the authors cleverly weaved him into so many of the major historical and biblical events. What a thought provoking idea that Cain, with whom no one knows his date of death, actually truly “wondered” for thousands of years along side of others we’ve come to know through bible stories.
I have to admit, I so didn’t want Cain’s fascinating story to end, that I really drew out this read, which I could have easily devoured in a couple of days. There was just so much information to take in and captivating history that I only read it when I could devote my full attention, optioning to put it aside and read something else while in a more distracting environments.
Just an amazingly well executed adventure by Orange County authors Tom Pollack, Jim Alves, and John Loftus. I’m excited to see what happens next in this unique and engaging series that is wholly appropriate for readers of all ages. A truly compelling read, weather you’re religious or not…even with its content of biblical history, WAYWARD SON is not a not “preachy” story. Highly recommend, well done.
June 9, 2011
The novel, Wayward Son, is a fun read for anyone who loves classic adventure stories. Along the lines of the best Indiana Jones movies, this book focusses on archeologist Amanda James, who is asked to lend her expertise on a recently discovered door. Combined with a well written speculative history on the biblical figure Cain, the novel progresses to an exciting climax. The ending manages to provide closure to the story while still leaving the option for what is sure to be an exciting sequel. If you are looking for a fast paced adventure, this book is definitely for you!
Thanks to the author and publishers for the opportunity to read this as part of the First Reads program.
Thanks to the author and publishers for the opportunity to read this as part of the First Reads program.
July 9, 2011
I am very picky about the books I read. I was weary about this book at first, but it completely surprised me! The story line was amazing and filled with surprises! I absolutely loved it from start to finish! I am telling everyone I know to read it!
May 30, 2011
Wayward Son is a spectacular Novel by Tom Pollack.
I borrowed my girlfriends Kindle this weekend and we went to Las Vegas.
So yesterday I am sitting by the pool at the Bellagio Hotel hoping for warmer weather and thumbing through her library when I spot this book and start reading. It begins like a really great junk read with a beautiful (well I think she is because she surfs in Malibu) heroine named Amanda James in her late 20's who actually reads old dusty scrolls at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. COOL! I wish I could do that! She’s an Archaeologist in the research lab at the Getty Museum.
In Chapter 1, Amanda gets a call from an old college flame named Juan Carlos begging her to travel to Italy to a new dig site and open a set of 1st century bronze doors inscribed in ancient languages like Chinese and Egyptian. The buried building is from the time of Roman Empire and buried under a hundred feet of ash from the explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Once she gets inside, like a curious cat she mistakenly touches this odd looking relic stained with what we learn is the blood of Jesus. The rooms melts away and she is transported back in time where she encounters an early human just after he has killed his own brother. The man is running away from the scene of the crime and is covered in thorns, bleeding profusely from the struggle. Okay, so this book is no longer just a junk read, but I am super intrigued at where it is going! It’s like a great contemporary fiction read mixed with history and draws actual characters out of the Bible but not in any preachy kind of way. It’s like Ben Hur meets Indiana Jones.
The author does a great job giving me just enough history but keeps it moving with a dual story line that jumps from modern day to the past and back seemingly every other chapter.
Anyway, soon the devil shows up as a voice in the man’s head and starts to tell the main character it was okay to kill his brother as he deserved it. The devil in this book is very sinister and calculating vs. typical supernatural books where he sends demons and such to do his bidding. Slowly the reader learns the male lead in this story is actually immortal; although he himself does not 100% know why. The man has no special powers other than his body completely heals in just a few days from normal wounds like scrapes and broken bones. Thus he always appears to ordinary mortals like his is mid 20's when in actuality he is thousands of years old. Sound pretty good to me so far- so what's his problem? Well think about it, if you were immortal and everyone around you got old and died off due to old age, how would you explain yourself?
The man (who shall remain nameless else it is a total spoiler) is like a rock on the outside, but very lonely on the inside as he can’t tell people who he really is. He has to either move on or wear an elaborate disguise to pretend that his is getting older. He becomes an outcast moving from place to place to cover his secret.
He marries several intriguing women in the novel whose characters are flushed out quite nicely, but loses them as they fall prey to diseases; old age or he simply abandons them as they sense he is not aging like a normal mortal man. The man sees history unfold in beautifully written vignettes and actually has a hand in shaping part of it. Like a moth to flame, he is drawn to pharaohs and kings that have a nasty habit of turning the tables on him.
With a totally muscled body and a now perfect memory given to him by a god who has cursed him so he never forgets killing his brother down the road, this "killer" lays low trying to avoid detection. But he can't as he always sticks his nose into things and gets into trouble. Slowly over time, he becomes a changed man but not before giving this reader a great show. The author even destroys the world in this huge flood and the mysterious man has to get off this big huge boat and wander around the world in search of other people. (now this ancient guy should be on the TV show Survivor and beat Boston Rob at his own game!) The man finds no humans and thinks he is the sole survivor of the human race. He begins to think suicide. He has managed to plant himself in a huge oasis in the middle of the Sahara desert while unbeknownst to him, civilizations around him arise. The reader learns the man actually measures time by the passage of Haley's comet every 76 years- which he sees hundreds-perhaps thousands of time! How old is this guy??
Enough said- Wayward Son has the best ending of any book I have read lately. The final chapter has a surprising twist as to who the devil is and the life altering choice Amanda must make to save her life- Does she do a deal with the devil or not? There better be a sequel!
I like how this novel portrays a modern educated woman, not a man, who has to make a choice of a deal with the devil to save her life. I remember hunky Keanu Reeves in that movie "The Devil's Advocate" where Al Pacino plays the sinister, but obviously devilish character.
My girlfriend told me to get a Goodreads account and share my review-- so here it is. I love this Kindle and am donating my dog eared paperbacks when i get home. Thank you Jeff Bezos at Amazon!
This is Tiffany at the Bellagio pool signing off. Go ahead and buy this wonderful book and take the plunge!
I borrowed my girlfriends Kindle this weekend and we went to Las Vegas.
So yesterday I am sitting by the pool at the Bellagio Hotel hoping for warmer weather and thumbing through her library when I spot this book and start reading. It begins like a really great junk read with a beautiful (well I think she is because she surfs in Malibu) heroine named Amanda James in her late 20's who actually reads old dusty scrolls at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. COOL! I wish I could do that! She’s an Archaeologist in the research lab at the Getty Museum.
In Chapter 1, Amanda gets a call from an old college flame named Juan Carlos begging her to travel to Italy to a new dig site and open a set of 1st century bronze doors inscribed in ancient languages like Chinese and Egyptian. The buried building is from the time of Roman Empire and buried under a hundred feet of ash from the explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Once she gets inside, like a curious cat she mistakenly touches this odd looking relic stained with what we learn is the blood of Jesus. The rooms melts away and she is transported back in time where she encounters an early human just after he has killed his own brother. The man is running away from the scene of the crime and is covered in thorns, bleeding profusely from the struggle. Okay, so this book is no longer just a junk read, but I am super intrigued at where it is going! It’s like a great contemporary fiction read mixed with history and draws actual characters out of the Bible but not in any preachy kind of way. It’s like Ben Hur meets Indiana Jones.
The author does a great job giving me just enough history but keeps it moving with a dual story line that jumps from modern day to the past and back seemingly every other chapter.
Anyway, soon the devil shows up as a voice in the man’s head and starts to tell the main character it was okay to kill his brother as he deserved it. The devil in this book is very sinister and calculating vs. typical supernatural books where he sends demons and such to do his bidding. Slowly the reader learns the male lead in this story is actually immortal; although he himself does not 100% know why. The man has no special powers other than his body completely heals in just a few days from normal wounds like scrapes and broken bones. Thus he always appears to ordinary mortals like his is mid 20's when in actuality he is thousands of years old. Sound pretty good to me so far- so what's his problem? Well think about it, if you were immortal and everyone around you got old and died off due to old age, how would you explain yourself?
The man (who shall remain nameless else it is a total spoiler) is like a rock on the outside, but very lonely on the inside as he can’t tell people who he really is. He has to either move on or wear an elaborate disguise to pretend that his is getting older. He becomes an outcast moving from place to place to cover his secret.
He marries several intriguing women in the novel whose characters are flushed out quite nicely, but loses them as they fall prey to diseases; old age or he simply abandons them as they sense he is not aging like a normal mortal man. The man sees history unfold in beautifully written vignettes and actually has a hand in shaping part of it. Like a moth to flame, he is drawn to pharaohs and kings that have a nasty habit of turning the tables on him.
With a totally muscled body and a now perfect memory given to him by a god who has cursed him so he never forgets killing his brother down the road, this "killer" lays low trying to avoid detection. But he can't as he always sticks his nose into things and gets into trouble. Slowly over time, he becomes a changed man but not before giving this reader a great show. The author even destroys the world in this huge flood and the mysterious man has to get off this big huge boat and wander around the world in search of other people. (now this ancient guy should be on the TV show Survivor and beat Boston Rob at his own game!) The man finds no humans and thinks he is the sole survivor of the human race. He begins to think suicide. He has managed to plant himself in a huge oasis in the middle of the Sahara desert while unbeknownst to him, civilizations around him arise. The reader learns the man actually measures time by the passage of Haley's comet every 76 years- which he sees hundreds-perhaps thousands of time! How old is this guy??
Enough said- Wayward Son has the best ending of any book I have read lately. The final chapter has a surprising twist as to who the devil is and the life altering choice Amanda must make to save her life- Does she do a deal with the devil or not? There better be a sequel!
I like how this novel portrays a modern educated woman, not a man, who has to make a choice of a deal with the devil to save her life. I remember hunky Keanu Reeves in that movie "The Devil's Advocate" where Al Pacino plays the sinister, but obviously devilish character.
My girlfriend told me to get a Goodreads account and share my review-- so here it is. I love this Kindle and am donating my dog eared paperbacks when i get home. Thank you Jeff Bezos at Amazon!
This is Tiffany at the Bellagio pool signing off. Go ahead and buy this wonderful book and take the plunge!
May 11, 2015
Everything changes early one morning when Dr. Amanda James gets a call from an old college flame and fellow archaeologist, beseeching her to travel to Italy to help solve the puzzle of a mysterious set of bronze doors at a new dig site. Much to her surprise and bemusement, Amanda also receives an offer of stardom and celebrity from billionaire Luc Renard on the same day. The only catch? The job is in Tokyo, requiring Amanda to leave everything of her life behind including her current work at the Getty Museum. Unable to turn her back on archaeology and all the research that she loves, she turns down the offer, but Renard is not someone used to taking no for an answer...
At the dig site in Italy, Amanda takes up the challenge solving the secret of the bronze doors. Sealed by a code inscribed in ancient languages including Chinese and Egyptian, the researchers believe the doors should open up to an underground vault buried beneath a hundred feet of ash from the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius. Once inside, Amanda discovers a room full of relics, including two unknown figures eternally locked in what appears to have been a struggle, killed and frozen in time by the volcanic effusion.
It is then Amanda suddenly experiences a shocking vision -- the life and times of the notorious Biblical figure Cain. Through her visions, she learns the truth -- that Cain actually walked the earth for thousands of years, cursed for the murder of his brother. Trapped in his immortal life, this is a story of Cain's road to redemption and fight to resist the devil's temptations.
At first, I thought I would love Wayward Son, based on my love for archaeology and the description of the book on various websites like Amazon and Goodreads. However, the book was nothing like I expected. Don't get me wrong, this was a well written book with a rather creative story. My problem with it isn't so much what the book was about, but with the way it was marketed.
From the synopsis, it sounded like a tale of suspense and adventure, something I would really love. As it turned out, this was not the case. I think I was initially drawn to these particular lines of the description: "Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorioius Biblical killer, who long ago wandered off the pages of history. When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must battle sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation, before it alters the destiny of millions."
While the beginning of the novel started off promising, I have to say that description did not actually reflect the content of the book at all. The bulk of the story itself is actually much more low-key and subdued, and not as heart-pumpingly exciting as the synopsis made it sound. The life of "Biblical killer" who turned out to be Cain played out more like a historical drama, and he wasn't really portrayed like the "villain" as stated. While Wayward Son did have a touch of mystery and suspense, the description is unreliable. I would say this book would be more at home on a Christian fiction shelf.
I'm still glad I picked it up for the synopsis, misleading or not, because I don't know if I would have read this book otherwise. It's an intriguing read, though my only caveat to other potential readers, of course, is to be wary of the novel's descriptions.
At the dig site in Italy, Amanda takes up the challenge solving the secret of the bronze doors. Sealed by a code inscribed in ancient languages including Chinese and Egyptian, the researchers believe the doors should open up to an underground vault buried beneath a hundred feet of ash from the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius. Once inside, Amanda discovers a room full of relics, including two unknown figures eternally locked in what appears to have been a struggle, killed and frozen in time by the volcanic effusion.
It is then Amanda suddenly experiences a shocking vision -- the life and times of the notorious Biblical figure Cain. Through her visions, she learns the truth -- that Cain actually walked the earth for thousands of years, cursed for the murder of his brother. Trapped in his immortal life, this is a story of Cain's road to redemption and fight to resist the devil's temptations.
At first, I thought I would love Wayward Son, based on my love for archaeology and the description of the book on various websites like Amazon and Goodreads. However, the book was nothing like I expected. Don't get me wrong, this was a well written book with a rather creative story. My problem with it isn't so much what the book was about, but with the way it was marketed.
From the synopsis, it sounded like a tale of suspense and adventure, something I would really love. As it turned out, this was not the case. I think I was initially drawn to these particular lines of the description: "Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorioius Biblical killer, who long ago wandered off the pages of history. When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must battle sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation, before it alters the destiny of millions."
While the beginning of the novel started off promising, I have to say that description did not actually reflect the content of the book at all. The bulk of the story itself is actually much more low-key and subdued, and not as heart-pumpingly exciting as the synopsis made it sound. The life of "Biblical killer" who turned out to be Cain played out more like a historical drama, and he wasn't really portrayed like the "villain" as stated. While Wayward Son did have a touch of mystery and suspense, the description is unreliable. I would say this book would be more at home on a Christian fiction shelf.
I'm still glad I picked it up for the synopsis, misleading or not, because I don't know if I would have read this book otherwise. It's an intriguing read, though my only caveat to other potential readers, of course, is to be wary of the novel's descriptions.
January 6, 2012
For centuries it seems the devil has been using our own personal guilt to keep us bound in our own prisons. Things we have done in our past serve as countless reminders he uses to keep us from the forgiveness and freedom that is ours to enjoy.
In the novel, Wayward Son, by Tom Pollack along with Jim Alves and John Loftus, the three will take the reader into an unexpected journey through the history of time. Beginning with Amanda Jones, who is a gifted linguist who works for the Getty Museum having a huge history in archeological digs, she finds herself at the disposal of Juan Carlos once more. He has requested her presence in Italy at what is slated to be the biggest find since the Dead Sea Scrolls. Apparently a recent earthquake has created a crack in the earth surfaces that has revealed a set of bronze doors that only she can reach and decode with her knowledge of ancient languages.
What she isn't expecting is to gain the ultimate lesson in history since the beginning of time by unlocking the doors long buried since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Now Amanda will journey through the biblical history with a discovery that she has found Cain, the reported child of Adam and Eve in the Genesis chapter of the Bible. Seeing history through his eyes, she gets an idea of what lies hidden behind the doors and just who will stop at nothing to make sure that she doesn't get out of the chamber alive.
I received Wayward Son compliments of Glass Road Public Relations for my honest review and LOVED it. Being a huge fan of not only biblical history but also world history, this book chroniciles the history of Cain's murder of his brother Abel and the guilt that has followed him and the curse he felt God has placed on his head since he was discovered. It was such a fantastic journey through history, I forgot I was reading a novel and was so completely immersed in the story as seen through the eyes of Cain. This is by far one of the most exceptional books I have had the pleasure to review and thus think it truly deserves 5 out of 5 stars. For anyone who loves biblical or world history, this is the perfect novel for you with a bit of Indiana Jones suspense action thrown in to keep you reading til the final page.
In the novel, Wayward Son, by Tom Pollack along with Jim Alves and John Loftus, the three will take the reader into an unexpected journey through the history of time. Beginning with Amanda Jones, who is a gifted linguist who works for the Getty Museum having a huge history in archeological digs, she finds herself at the disposal of Juan Carlos once more. He has requested her presence in Italy at what is slated to be the biggest find since the Dead Sea Scrolls. Apparently a recent earthquake has created a crack in the earth surfaces that has revealed a set of bronze doors that only she can reach and decode with her knowledge of ancient languages.
What she isn't expecting is to gain the ultimate lesson in history since the beginning of time by unlocking the doors long buried since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Now Amanda will journey through the biblical history with a discovery that she has found Cain, the reported child of Adam and Eve in the Genesis chapter of the Bible. Seeing history through his eyes, she gets an idea of what lies hidden behind the doors and just who will stop at nothing to make sure that she doesn't get out of the chamber alive.
I received Wayward Son compliments of Glass Road Public Relations for my honest review and LOVED it. Being a huge fan of not only biblical history but also world history, this book chroniciles the history of Cain's murder of his brother Abel and the guilt that has followed him and the curse he felt God has placed on his head since he was discovered. It was such a fantastic journey through history, I forgot I was reading a novel and was so completely immersed in the story as seen through the eyes of Cain. This is by far one of the most exceptional books I have had the pleasure to review and thus think it truly deserves 5 out of 5 stars. For anyone who loves biblical or world history, this is the perfect novel for you with a bit of Indiana Jones suspense action thrown in to keep you reading til the final page.
May 14, 2011
Wayward Son by John Loftus
Amanda, budding archaeologist; goes to Italy to assist in what just may be the Find of a lifetime. Or, it just may end her life. When asked by her ex-love Juan Carlos to fly over and assist in reading a set of panels Amanda jumps at the chance to get away for awhile and to see if there is possibly something left of an old flame.
The panels are massive but Amanda is able to decipher the lettering and to also solve the puzzle to open the doors. So far so good. Then things get really interesting. She is wandering around in a huge chamber when she begins to have a vision. Not fairies and dragons; not vampires or werewolves. Nope.
This is a vision of the life and times of Cain. Yes, THAT CAIN. You thought he killed Abel and just fell off the face of the earth, huh? Well, he certainly didn’t do that. Cain was cursed with eternal life by God. He couldn’t be killed and went on to become an engineer, boat-builder, map maker and numerous other things. Until he has a chance encounter with a certain carpenter form Nazareth.
Cain lived many centuries and made a difference in each of them in some positive way. He always tried to make up for killing his brother, even if it was an accident (maybe). Amanda learns the truth of many, many things during her visions, the last of which may be the most shocking.
I didn’t like this book at first. I was all caught up in the Amanda story when it switched over to Cain and I felt that it was a bit off-putting. I tried several times to read enough of this book to decently review it and let it go but I couldn’t. I kept coming back to the tale and its characters, biblically and historically correct in most places (great job of research, by the way!) until I found it was over. You may not like biblical history but you9 will LOVE the story of Cain, who killed his brother and spent eons repenting his sin.
Amanda, budding archaeologist; goes to Italy to assist in what just may be the Find of a lifetime. Or, it just may end her life. When asked by her ex-love Juan Carlos to fly over and assist in reading a set of panels Amanda jumps at the chance to get away for awhile and to see if there is possibly something left of an old flame.
The panels are massive but Amanda is able to decipher the lettering and to also solve the puzzle to open the doors. So far so good. Then things get really interesting. She is wandering around in a huge chamber when she begins to have a vision. Not fairies and dragons; not vampires or werewolves. Nope.
This is a vision of the life and times of Cain. Yes, THAT CAIN. You thought he killed Abel and just fell off the face of the earth, huh? Well, he certainly didn’t do that. Cain was cursed with eternal life by God. He couldn’t be killed and went on to become an engineer, boat-builder, map maker and numerous other things. Until he has a chance encounter with a certain carpenter form Nazareth.
Cain lived many centuries and made a difference in each of them in some positive way. He always tried to make up for killing his brother, even if it was an accident (maybe). Amanda learns the truth of many, many things during her visions, the last of which may be the most shocking.
I didn’t like this book at first. I was all caught up in the Amanda story when it switched over to Cain and I felt that it was a bit off-putting. I tried several times to read enough of this book to decently review it and let it go but I couldn’t. I kept coming back to the tale and its characters, biblically and historically correct in most places (great job of research, by the way!) until I found it was over. You may not like biblical history but you9 will LOVE the story of Cain, who killed his brother and spent eons repenting his sin.
September 4, 2011
****spoilers in this review*****Wayward Son This is an amazing book. This book has something for everyone, action, adventure, archaeology, erupting volcanos and good vs evil. The ultimate good vs. evil. This is a well written book. I could not put it down! It pretty much held my interest from beginning to end. It is an historical fiction account of the life of Cain (yes Cain who slew his brother Abel)Cain's death was never recorded because, guess what, he didn't die. Remember God's judgement on Cain? A journey thoughout history through the eyes of the first born man. A man with a mark who cannot die, or be killed. I found Cain's story to be fascinating. The parts of the book which involved the current day archeaologist, Amanda James, and her museum cronies were annoying. I couldn't see how they fit into the big scheme of things until the very end of the story when the connection between past and present becomes apparent. The identity of the "Wayward Son" is revealed early on in the story and is enhanced when a certain individual states, "Cain, though you may be the oldest, you are by no means my only wayward son." Guess who says this line? My favorite quote from the book--"Such rage is fertile soil in which the devil cultivates all sorts of evil in your life." Think about it. Another quote, when Cain asks he who cursed him about his curse, the response "My child, what you saw as a curse, I meant as a blessing. Have you considered that I marked you not only for protection but also to give you the time you needed to journey home to me?" This is truly one of the best books I've read in recent memory. There was enough doubt in the end about a choice made by certain characters to leave open the possibility of a sequel. I will wait and watch for this book. I give this book 5/5 stars
April 24, 2011
Wayward Son by Tom Pollack
It is an unusual vehicle that leads to the speculative historic fiction that is the center of this novel. Modern day archeologist and papyrus specialist Amanda James is summoned to a dig in Ercolano, Italy by her former college boyfriend. When she solves the puzzle that unlocks an ancient vault in the buried city of Herculaneum and then is subsequently locked inside by accident, cut off from all outside communication, she discovers the human figures covered in lava and ash in the center of the vault.
Between the figures dangles an amulet of some kind and as Amanda reaches for it and touches it she is instantaneously transported back in time to the beginning of civilization from a lone wanderer’s perspective. Because the wanderer is immortal we are treated to narratives of ancient adventures that span eons and to travels throughout the populated civilized world. With occasional glimpses of the present we witness the origins of social civilization; the building of Western and Eastern civilization; the beginnings of literature, science and mathematics all through Amanda from the wanderer’s perspective.
Truly an engaging and entertaining read it has quite a bit of a biblical slant. The clever incorporation of these religious references does not go to such lengths as to be considered proselytizing even though they are presented as fact. Rather, they enhance the tale and create an intriguing story that anyone who is a fan of historical fiction will enjoy.
The drama of Amanda trapped in the vault is almost anti-climactic compared to her vicarious historical adventures but I still have to give the author kudos for using her smaller story to wrap the main tale.
It is an unusual vehicle that leads to the speculative historic fiction that is the center of this novel. Modern day archeologist and papyrus specialist Amanda James is summoned to a dig in Ercolano, Italy by her former college boyfriend. When she solves the puzzle that unlocks an ancient vault in the buried city of Herculaneum and then is subsequently locked inside by accident, cut off from all outside communication, she discovers the human figures covered in lava and ash in the center of the vault.
Between the figures dangles an amulet of some kind and as Amanda reaches for it and touches it she is instantaneously transported back in time to the beginning of civilization from a lone wanderer’s perspective. Because the wanderer is immortal we are treated to narratives of ancient adventures that span eons and to travels throughout the populated civilized world. With occasional glimpses of the present we witness the origins of social civilization; the building of Western and Eastern civilization; the beginnings of literature, science and mathematics all through Amanda from the wanderer’s perspective.
Truly an engaging and entertaining read it has quite a bit of a biblical slant. The clever incorporation of these religious references does not go to such lengths as to be considered proselytizing even though they are presented as fact. Rather, they enhance the tale and create an intriguing story that anyone who is a fan of historical fiction will enjoy.
The drama of Amanda trapped in the vault is almost anti-climactic compared to her vicarious historical adventures but I still have to give the author kudos for using her smaller story to wrap the main tale.
September 19, 2011
I received a copy of Wayward Son through Librarything’s Early Reviewer giveaway and I’m glad the initial blurb caught my attention enough to make me enter to win a copy. It was a complex, inventive novel and will certainly fall into the narrow category of books that I remember well after I finished reading it.
Wayward Son is, at it’s core, and epic journey through time and ancient history, seen through the eyes of one of the Bible’s most notorious characters- Cain. Interestingly, the Bible never tells of Cain’s fate after being exiled, but this author did a brilliant job of building on the fable and turning it into something highly improbable, yet wholly believable at the same time. At the end of reading the novel, I felt as if I too had live through some of the most important events in human history.
At present day, the story begins with an archeological discovery and an ambitious employee of the Getty Museum’s, Amanda James. Through her the reader is taken on an unforgettable journey into the long, tumultuous life of Cain. Mostly, the present-day story line is used as a device for the historical backstory, and I did fine the modern line a little thin and not nearly as compelling as the rest of the book.
But make no mistake, this tale is a must read, and not just for people who gravitate towards epic, historical fiction. Wayward Son can’t be pigeon-holed that easy. It has mystery, murder, mayhem, religion, mysticism, love found and lost, interesting characters and and is superbly written. Check it out, you won’t be sorry!
Wayward Son is, at it’s core, and epic journey through time and ancient history, seen through the eyes of one of the Bible’s most notorious characters- Cain. Interestingly, the Bible never tells of Cain’s fate after being exiled, but this author did a brilliant job of building on the fable and turning it into something highly improbable, yet wholly believable at the same time. At the end of reading the novel, I felt as if I too had live through some of the most important events in human history.
At present day, the story begins with an archeological discovery and an ambitious employee of the Getty Museum’s, Amanda James. Through her the reader is taken on an unforgettable journey into the long, tumultuous life of Cain. Mostly, the present-day story line is used as a device for the historical backstory, and I did fine the modern line a little thin and not nearly as compelling as the rest of the book.
But make no mistake, this tale is a must read, and not just for people who gravitate towards epic, historical fiction. Wayward Son can’t be pigeon-holed that easy. It has mystery, murder, mayhem, religion, mysticism, love found and lost, interesting characters and and is superbly written. Check it out, you won’t be sorry!
June 24, 2011
I got this book from Goodreads First Reads!
I thought that this book was pretty good, but I did not like the whole religion part of the story.
This story is about a girl named Amanda James and how one of her ex-boyfriends, Juan, called her to tell about an archaeology site that was opened by an earthquake. Juan wanted Amanda to go to the site in Ercolano, Italy. He knew that she could crack the code of how to open the door, which he had only seen some pictures of from the robot they sent into the crack. On the set of bronze double doors there were pictures on one door and inscriptions on the other.
So Amanda went to Italy and went into the crack. She cracked the code of how to open the doors and went inside the huge tomb. When she got inside she stepped on a stone and the door closed locking her inside. She looked went deeper into the tomb and saw two bodies locked in a fight, but they were like stone statues. She looked at them closer and she saw that they seemed to be fighting over a thing a on a chain around one of the guys necks. She touched the thing that they were fighting over and suddenly she was in some other place.
She had been transfered back in time to watch a guys life unfold and understand why the place she just discovered had become what it was today.
I will not tell you who the Wayward Son is, but I will tell you if you love history and a really good read you should read this book!
I thought that this book was pretty good, but I did not like the whole religion part of the story.
This story is about a girl named Amanda James and how one of her ex-boyfriends, Juan, called her to tell about an archaeology site that was opened by an earthquake. Juan wanted Amanda to go to the site in Ercolano, Italy. He knew that she could crack the code of how to open the door, which he had only seen some pictures of from the robot they sent into the crack. On the set of bronze double doors there were pictures on one door and inscriptions on the other.
So Amanda went to Italy and went into the crack. She cracked the code of how to open the doors and went inside the huge tomb. When she got inside she stepped on a stone and the door closed locking her inside. She looked went deeper into the tomb and saw two bodies locked in a fight, but they were like stone statues. She looked at them closer and she saw that they seemed to be fighting over a thing a on a chain around one of the guys necks. She touched the thing that they were fighting over and suddenly she was in some other place.
She had been transfered back in time to watch a guys life unfold and understand why the place she just discovered had become what it was today.
I will not tell you who the Wayward Son is, but I will tell you if you love history and a really good read you should read this book!
August 11, 2012
I felt like I'd been subjected to a bait-n-switch in this book. It started so promisingly as a tale of the supernatural, wherein a modern female archaeologist excavating a site in Italy "sees" the life experiences of a long-dead man when she touches the pendant of a necklace hanging from what she believes is a statue of a man. And for a while, the author jumps back and forth fairly regularly between the modern day and the ancient life of the man, who turns out to be a well-known Biblical figure. His life is pretty fascinating, although it was increasingly difficult to suspend my disbelief when he was credited as having been present at so many historical events and of having invented or perfected so many elements of civilized society.
However, about three-quarters of the way through, it became obvious that the author was not simply trying to tell a fascinating story with supernatural elements. No, he was proselytizing, as the historical figure comes in contact with Jesus of Nazareth. The rest is just beating a dead horse, with details to support the Christian message that was clearly the theme of and reason for the book.
Look, there's nothing wrong with writing Christian fiction, especially if it's well written. The thing that bothered me: it's not labelled as such. And that left me feeling duped.
[I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads.com First Reads drawing.]
However, about three-quarters of the way through, it became obvious that the author was not simply trying to tell a fascinating story with supernatural elements. No, he was proselytizing, as the historical figure comes in contact with Jesus of Nazareth. The rest is just beating a dead horse, with details to support the Christian message that was clearly the theme of and reason for the book.
Look, there's nothing wrong with writing Christian fiction, especially if it's well written. The thing that bothered me: it's not labelled as such. And that left me feeling duped.
[I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads.com First Reads drawing.]
October 23, 2011
I found WAYWARD SON a fascinating read. The author does an excellent job of weaving his main character, from the past, into historical events from the beginning of time. It seems that the "Wayward Son" is there at all of the important junctures of time in the past or near to where the action is taking place. The premise of his life is interesting and makes one wonder "what if". I enjoy books that draws the reader in and makes them wonder and think of the interesting aspects of the author's writing.
Amanda James is the heroine of the present day who in finding an artifact filled chamber stumbles upon the life of the "Wayward Son". It is through her that we learn of his life and adventures through the growth of various civilizations. In the end Amanda faces some of the same decisions that the "Wayward Son" had to face and is given strength to continue through a small artifact that she holds in her hand. Maybe there will be a follow up book to let us know who Amanda is doing.
The book does have religious overtones and if you are not comfortable with that in a book then WAYWARD SON is not for you. But if you like to have your imagination stretched and to wonder what if then it is a very good book. Very interesting and enjoyable. ( )
Amanda James is the heroine of the present day who in finding an artifact filled chamber stumbles upon the life of the "Wayward Son". It is through her that we learn of his life and adventures through the growth of various civilizations. In the end Amanda faces some of the same decisions that the "Wayward Son" had to face and is given strength to continue through a small artifact that she holds in her hand. Maybe there will be a follow up book to let us know who Amanda is doing.
The book does have religious overtones and if you are not comfortable with that in a book then WAYWARD SON is not for you. But if you like to have your imagination stretched and to wonder what if then it is a very good book. Very interesting and enjoyable. ( )
December 28, 2011
Amanda James is a leading archaeologist. She doesn't expect any amazing digs to come up anytime soon, but she is pleasantly surprised when she receives not one, but two offers. She decides to take Italy and heads out right away. When she arrives, she begins to suspect something is amiss. When she solves the puzzle that opens the door to reveal amazing antiques. However, Amanda triggers a switch that closes the door behind her...leaving her alone and with no way to contact the outside world.
This book is very different in that Amanda may be a main character, but she is one of two. The other is the narrator, the one who explains the facts and history of the site to the reader. The reader will have different reactions to both of them, Amanda is likable and easy to relate to, but the other character will confuse the reader. They have very different traits and mannerisms.
The events are fast-paced and incredibly interesting. The author describes the archaeological site in vivid detail, making it easy for the reader to picture the environment. There are historical points that add to the novel and make it so much more intriguing than it would be otherwise, the mystery adds suspense to the novel as well. This book is perfect for a young adult/adult reader.
This book is very different in that Amanda may be a main character, but she is one of two. The other is the narrator, the one who explains the facts and history of the site to the reader. The reader will have different reactions to both of them, Amanda is likable and easy to relate to, but the other character will confuse the reader. They have very different traits and mannerisms.
The events are fast-paced and incredibly interesting. The author describes the archaeological site in vivid detail, making it easy for the reader to picture the environment. There are historical points that add to the novel and make it so much more intriguing than it would be otherwise, the mystery adds suspense to the novel as well. This book is perfect for a young adult/adult reader.
November 30, 2011
Wayward Son is a fantastic adventure through history. The Authors took one of the most well known stories in the bible, then expanded upon it and turned it into an exciting story of redemption.
They take us out of our world and (way) into the past, when Cain is cast off for killing his brother Able. Creative liberty is taken with Cain's fate after the last mention of him in the Bible, and you, the reader wins. We are brought to the past by the fun, intelligent archeologist Amanda James, who is pulled into Cains memories after touching a necklace discovered while working a dig in Pompeii. The ancient story brings us through Cain's fictional life in Nod, how he survived the great flood, the time of the pharos, all the way through to the volcanic explosion of Mt. Vesuvius!
I found Wayward Son to be a fun book, splashed with lots of historic events, with a constant reminder of how good and evil work in our lives. The characters were likable and I was sad when I reached the end. It was so beautifully written that I can't wait to read the next book by these three wise men!
They take us out of our world and (way) into the past, when Cain is cast off for killing his brother Able. Creative liberty is taken with Cain's fate after the last mention of him in the Bible, and you, the reader wins. We are brought to the past by the fun, intelligent archeologist Amanda James, who is pulled into Cains memories after touching a necklace discovered while working a dig in Pompeii. The ancient story brings us through Cain's fictional life in Nod, how he survived the great flood, the time of the pharos, all the way through to the volcanic explosion of Mt. Vesuvius!
I found Wayward Son to be a fun book, splashed with lots of historic events, with a constant reminder of how good and evil work in our lives. The characters were likable and I was sad when I reached the end. It was so beautifully written that I can't wait to read the next book by these three wise men!
July 17, 2011
Although I was disappointed by the writing (very choppy, jarring changes, etc.), the overall premise is enjoyable. The story kept me interested through the ending and I loved the character's participation in so many different epochs. I felt, though, as though the authors did a "bait and switch." They spent so much time building Amanda James' character, and then jarringly switched to Cain. I kept waiting for the story to return to the real hero, until I realized that Cain was now the focus. They only went back to Dr. James for brief snippets every 10 chapters or so. If she's only a springboard to the real story, why spend so much time on her relationship with her father, Juan Carlos, etc.?
In short, if you love historical fiction (like I do), you'll enjoy it, and willingly suspend disbelief when he hitches a ride on Noah's Ark. If you are a fan of real literature, you'll probably wince repeatedly as you stumble over the awkward writing. The cliffhanger at the end won't be enough to make me forget the writing if they ever come out with a sequel.
In short, if you love historical fiction (like I do), you'll enjoy it, and willingly suspend disbelief when he hitches a ride on Noah's Ark. If you are a fan of real literature, you'll probably wince repeatedly as you stumble over the awkward writing. The cliffhanger at the end won't be enough to make me forget the writing if they ever come out with a sequel.
November 30, 2011
Wayward Son is a fantastic adventure through history. The Authors took one of the most well known stories in the bible, then expanded upon it and turned it into an exciting story of redemption.
They take us out of our world and (way) into the past, when Cain is cast off for killing his brother Able. Creative liberty is taken with Cain's fate after the last mention of him in the Bible, and you, the reader wins. We are brought to the past by the fun, intelligent archeologist Amanda James, who is pulled into Cains memories after touching a necklace discovered while working a dig in Pompeii. The ancient story brings us through Cain's fictional life in Nod, how he survived the great flood, the time of the pharos, all the way through to the volcanic explosion of Mt. Vesuvius!
I found Wayward Son to be a fun book, splashed with lots of historic events, with a constant reminder of how good and evil work in our lives. The characters were likable and I was sad when I reached the end. It was so beautifully written that I can't wait to read the next book by these three wise men!
They take us out of our world and (way) into the past, when Cain is cast off for killing his brother Able. Creative liberty is taken with Cain's fate after the last mention of him in the Bible, and you, the reader wins. We are brought to the past by the fun, intelligent archeologist Amanda James, who is pulled into Cains memories after touching a necklace discovered while working a dig in Pompeii. The ancient story brings us through Cain's fictional life in Nod, how he survived the great flood, the time of the pharos, all the way through to the volcanic explosion of Mt. Vesuvius!
I found Wayward Son to be a fun book, splashed with lots of historic events, with a constant reminder of how good and evil work in our lives. The characters were likable and I was sad when I reached the end. It was so beautifully written that I can't wait to read the next book by these three wise men!
July 9, 2011
I just received my copy of Wayward Son through the Goodreads First Reads program! This is the first book I've ever won! Thank you so much to the author and/or publisher! I am looking forward to reading this book!
Finally Finished!!
I Loved reading this book! It took me through time, I kept looking things up because I wondered what the artifacts looked like! I didn't know what to expect at first because the story switched from one perspective to an entirely different one. There was such a twist on history, the concept of it all just left me wanting more and more of the story. I couldn't put it down, I am absolutely looking forward to the possibility of another book!? This story had everything you want in a great read- an amazing protagonist, suspense, good vs. evil, adventure, amazing imagery... definitely brought me into the story- I wanted to BE there as much as the words made me feel like I was there! I recommend this book to any and everyone!
Finally Finished!!
I Loved reading this book! It took me through time, I kept looking things up because I wondered what the artifacts looked like! I didn't know what to expect at first because the story switched from one perspective to an entirely different one. There was such a twist on history, the concept of it all just left me wanting more and more of the story. I couldn't put it down, I am absolutely looking forward to the possibility of another book!? This story had everything you want in a great read- an amazing protagonist, suspense, good vs. evil, adventure, amazing imagery... definitely brought me into the story- I wanted to BE there as much as the words made me feel like I was there! I recommend this book to any and everyone!
June 2, 2011
I admit if I had to live my life over I'd be an archaeologist. I love history so I'm always happy to read an archaeology/suspense novel when I find it on the shelves.
This sounded like the usual good read but it was decidedly different. I won't say who the wayward son is but you'll find out soon enough.
Pollack and co-authors used the device of an archaeological find to take us on a march through history from the Garden of Eden to the 21st century. It was an exciting journey. I found myself very sympathetic toward the wayward son who wasn't so wayward after all. He was an amazing character in this novel.
Based on the ending (which I found a little tiny bit dissatisfying) there may be a sequel. And, Tom, I hope you bring back the wayward son. I think the world still needs him.
I believe this book isn't yet available in print - only as an ebook.
This sounded like the usual good read but it was decidedly different. I won't say who the wayward son is but you'll find out soon enough.
Pollack and co-authors used the device of an archaeological find to take us on a march through history from the Garden of Eden to the 21st century. It was an exciting journey. I found myself very sympathetic toward the wayward son who wasn't so wayward after all. He was an amazing character in this novel.
Based on the ending (which I found a little tiny bit dissatisfying) there may be a sequel. And, Tom, I hope you bring back the wayward son. I think the world still needs him.
I believe this book isn't yet available in print - only as an ebook.
April 30, 2011
Brilliant, original, and engaging. This is a Christian novel with a wonderful premise that takes the reader through major events of early history. Although written as a double plot, one current and one historical that culminate at the end; the book is more like an intriguing collection of short stories in different ancient cultures. Each chapter is well written and takes the reader right to the time and place of the scene. In the end, it remains a story of good versus evil, but getting there is great fun. [return][return]Wayward Son is not deep theology, it's not heavy philosophy (unless you wish to make it so, I guess), and it won't become the next Pilgrims Progress. Wayward Son is a delightful journey with some great twists, turns, and tales. Enjoy the stories, enjoy the journey.
December 12, 2011
Received this as an Earlier Reviewer. It was not what I had expected(ie an archaeological mystery/adventure). Instead it was an inventive mixture of ancient history and fiction woven together in an engrossing tale reaching from the beginning of man to present day. I thought I had anticipated the outcome early ‘wrong’, I was pleasantly surprised at the twist at the end. My only criticism would be that I would have liked the modern characters, Amanda, Luc, Juan etc to have had more substance and more chapters dedicated to them to make the story more cohesive and build up mystery/suspense. On the whole a very enjoyable read.
August 27, 2011
I was blessed to receive a copy of this book from Library Thing early reviewers, after completing the book I find it fascinating that such a creative fiction account of characters we've heard of in fictional and non fictional historical settings were interwoven into such an exilerating masterpiece! The book was very good, so good in fact that my family is also reading it and hanging on the pages. The one drawback for me was that at times the "vision" retrospect was long and encumbered. But it does all tie nicely together in a cliffhanger of an ending because the battle that is waged is far from over in this lifetime. Looking forward to future adeventures of Amanda possibly?
May 9, 2012
Ok, first 50 pages or so I wasn't for sure if I was going to like this book, but then bam! It took off and didn't stop till the end. I enjoyed the romp through history through the eyes of a unique participant.
This would be classified as Christian fiction, but I didn't think it was preachy (until a little at the end). There was a little theology at the end that sounded a little more like modern day evangelicalism instead of the historical setting in which it was taking place (but this did not prohibit me from enjoying the book).
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historic fiction (with a little make believe mixed in).
This would be classified as Christian fiction, but I didn't think it was preachy (until a little at the end). There was a little theology at the end that sounded a little more like modern day evangelicalism instead of the historical setting in which it was taking place (but this did not prohibit me from enjoying the book).
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historic fiction (with a little make believe mixed in).
June 14, 2011
This book is split between present and past, with a large part focused on the past. It would have been a much better book (tighter story, fewer distractions) if it had just focused on the past and left out the whole bit about the modern protagonist. As it stands, the main emphasis of the story is on the modern character, even though the bulk of the writing concerns the characters in the past. This sort of split detracts from the interesting parts of the story (mostly a travelogue) without adding much.
Also, the ending was a transparent stretch towards the sequel.
Also, the ending was a transparent stretch towards the sequel.
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