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Rex Dalton #8
Under the Pope's Windows
They stole it. He's going to take it back-by force.
In October 1943, Hitler's SS troops surrounded Rome's Jewish Ghetto and plundered the Jews' most precious heritage: two ancient libraries containing unique books and manuscripts dating from before the birth of Christ, from the time of the Caesars, the emperors, and the early popes.
The Nazi ambassador to the Vatican reported to his masters in Berlin that the looting and deportations took place 'under the Pope's windows'.
Now, Rex Dalton and his wife, Catia, and Digger, their military dog, set out on a quest to find the stolen libraries and return them to the Jewish community of Rome.
But before long, they cross paths with modern-day Nazi diehards, anti-Semites, and a secret organization of super-rich elite who will kill to keep the past a secret.
In October 1943, Hitler's SS troops surrounded Rome's Jewish Ghetto and plundered the Jews' most precious heritage: two ancient libraries containing unique books and manuscripts dating from before the birth of Christ, from the time of the Caesars, the emperors, and the early popes.
The Nazi ambassador to the Vatican reported to his masters in Berlin that the looting and deportations took place 'under the Pope's windows'.
Now, Rex Dalton and his wife, Catia, and Digger, their military dog, set out on a quest to find the stolen libraries and return them to the Jewish community of Rome.
But before long, they cross paths with modern-day Nazi diehards, anti-Semites, and a secret organization of super-rich elite who will kill to keep the past a secret.
- GenresThriller
355 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2020
About the author
J.C. Ryan
49 books167 followersJ C Ryan writes spellbinding mystery suspense thrillers with an archaeological backdrop.
He has been a combat and intelligence officer in the military, practicing lawyer and information technology project manager.
He holds a military as well as a law degree and is married with two daughters and two dogs.
JC currently makes his home on the Gold Coast of Australia.
He has been a combat and intelligence officer in the military, practicing lawyer and information technology project manager.
He holds a military as well as a law degree and is married with two daughters and two dogs.
JC currently makes his home on the Gold Coast of Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
May 10, 2020
What an absolutely fabulous written work this book is!!! Besides the usual amazing action, intelligence and moments of humor we find in the adventures of Rex and Digger, we now have Catia, Rex's new bride, studying for her PhD by writing her thesis on the lost libraries of the Jewish community. I learned so much from this fact-filled story, slightly added with fictional events,to finish a superb adventure. We learn of things that happened during Hitler's reign, taking antique books, sculptures, and paintings from the Jewish people, plundering their history into darkness.
As Catia investigates it becomes clear that there needs to be travel to check out people and stories, and when hints of danger emerge Rex rounds up some friends and Catia is able to call on her Mossad family. The adventure traveled attempting to find the lost libraries is exciting, with many new friends made and more enemies unleashed. You will not be able to turn away until the fulfilling ending!!
I received an ARC from this author and offer You my great joy, honest thoughts and fabulous feelings on this remarkable story.
As Catia investigates it becomes clear that there needs to be travel to check out people and stories, and when hints of danger emerge Rex rounds up some friends and Catia is able to call on her Mossad family. The adventure traveled attempting to find the lost libraries is exciting, with many new friends made and more enemies unleashed. You will not be able to turn away until the fulfilling ending!!
I received an ARC from this author and offer You my great joy, honest thoughts and fabulous feelings on this remarkable story.
May 29, 2020
Gripping!
Where has JC Ryan been all my reading life? This was my first. It will definitely not be my last! This author presses all the right buttons!
Where has JC Ryan been all my reading life? This was my first. It will definitely not be my last! This author presses all the right buttons!
May 18, 2020
Outstanding writing that has you gripped from the beginning. Totally impossible to not love this story. All emotions are there, sad, intense with suspense. At any given time, you feel as if you are part of the plot. Don’t miss out.
July 3, 2020
JC Ryan does it again.
Just another brilliant story with Rex, Catia, Digger and the team. This time they are tasked with finding the Jewish libraries that were stolen by the Nazis from under the Pope's window. This is all because of Catia's thesis for a doctorate about the libraries. CRC are given permission to be involved as well as Missed which gives plenty of action.
Again there is plenty of background surrounding the Nazi's part in the thefts as well as the people who want them to remain hidden so that certain secrets are not disclosed.
To date this has been an extremely good series to read and given me hours of pleasure. I see there is another book now and must find out it's availability.
Just another brilliant story with Rex, Catia, Digger and the team. This time they are tasked with finding the Jewish libraries that were stolen by the Nazis from under the Pope's window. This is all because of Catia's thesis for a doctorate about the libraries. CRC are given permission to be involved as well as Missed which gives plenty of action.
Again there is plenty of background surrounding the Nazi's part in the thefts as well as the people who want them to remain hidden so that certain secrets are not disclosed.
To date this has been an extremely good series to read and given me hours of pleasure. I see there is another book now and must find out it's availability.
July 11, 2020
Another great book by this author. I've read a few by him and each one has been great. Fast paced full of suspense and the characters are really great!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2020
I really wish JC Ryan would finish writing this series for 2 reasons, 1. Because I have been loosing too much sleep staying up reading the adventures of Rex, Digger, and now Catia, and 2. Because I really resent my job interfering with time that I'd rather be reading, after all Rex and company are probably having great adventures while I'm stuck at work. The Rex Dalton books were good. The Rex and Digger books were better. Now the Rex, Digger and Catia books are fantastic! Just one question....Is Digger ever going to get a girlfriend?
May 11, 2020
Rex Dalton and Digger are back! From a surprise wedding to international intrigue the action in this thriller is non stop. If you're a Rex Dalton fan, you know he's a history nut and this book is full of interesting history. While all of the facts may not be "real" there is enough truth to be both interesting and horrifying. A page turner from beginning to end. As an ARC reader for author JC Ryan, I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 8, 2020
A well researched and interesting story line. A little too much of a history lesson and not enough of Rex and Digger.
November 22, 2021
In Donna Teresa, Rex and Catia, and Chris and Melissa become couples and, at the end, it left us wondering what the future has in store for them. In the opening scenes of Under The Pope’s Window, we find both couples have become engaged and Rex and Catia are planning their wedding. Things are moving too slowly for Rex, so he changes the game plan with a surprise wedding aboard the TOMATS. In the eight months following their wedding day, which included a bliss filled seven week honeymoon touring Europe on their motorbikes, no trouble requiring Rex and Digger’s help crossed their path. Rex thought and believe that he had finally found the life of peace that he had wanted. Of course, we know that it’s only a matter of time before trouble finds them. This time it was Catia’s desire to locate the Jewish books stolen by the Nazis during World War Two and returning them to their rightful place that leads them into harm’s way.
Like all Rex Dalton Thrillers, Under The Popes Window is an action packed read, but, mostly, the action is more cerebral than physical. None-the-less, like all the books in the series leading up to this one, it’s a fast-paced, page-turning read. They say that truth is stranger than fiction, which may or may not be true. What is true is that I have never read historical truths presented in a more interesting and entertaining fashion. The action that we expect from a Rex Dalton thriller happens during the last third of this read where it starts with the torture and murder of two people playing key roles in helping Rex and Catia in locating the stolen Jewish libraries.
In the last third of Under The Popes Window, the action carries the story to its ultimate climax like a run-away freight train on a downhill slope. Rex and Catia recover the stolen libraries and return them to their rightful owners. Their success didn’t come easy. It seemed like all the cards were stacked against them and they would fail. To find out how they pulled it off, read the book. As we leave Rex and Catia this time, they are planning a trip to America to attend Josh and Melissa’s wedding. I’m headed to the next book in this dynamite series, The Shanghai Strain, to find out what lies in store for Rex, Catia, Josh, and Melissa.
Like all Rex Dalton Thrillers, Under The Popes Window is an action packed read, but, mostly, the action is more cerebral than physical. None-the-less, like all the books in the series leading up to this one, it’s a fast-paced, page-turning read. They say that truth is stranger than fiction, which may or may not be true. What is true is that I have never read historical truths presented in a more interesting and entertaining fashion. The action that we expect from a Rex Dalton thriller happens during the last third of this read where it starts with the torture and murder of two people playing key roles in helping Rex and Catia in locating the stolen Jewish libraries.
In the last third of Under The Popes Window, the action carries the story to its ultimate climax like a run-away freight train on a downhill slope. Rex and Catia recover the stolen libraries and return them to their rightful owners. Their success didn’t come easy. It seemed like all the cards were stacked against them and they would fail. To find out how they pulled it off, read the book. As we leave Rex and Catia this time, they are planning a trip to America to attend Josh and Melissa’s wedding. I’m headed to the next book in this dynamite series, The Shanghai Strain, to find out what lies in store for Rex, Catia, Josh, and Melissa.
September 29, 2024
A shocking history lesson as well as a heartbreaking one!
First, let me urge you to so some extensive reseach into the history of the Vatican's involvement with the Nazis both before, during, and after WWII as well as records finally released in the last two decades regarding Pope Luis XII and the corruption in which he was complicit... Your blood will run cold, Then research deeper into the wealth looted by the Nazis from individuals and countries they conquered/looted, that disappeared and the VERY small percentage that was ever recovered...it boggles the mind. And finally, discover how many many high profile Nazis were never captured/ prosecuted but instead " escaped" with new identities to live out their lives to a ripe old age in comfort. If you are not already awash in tears of fury and shock, imagine that wealth at work in the hands of zealots who still to this day despise the Jews and await the chance to resurrect the specter of the Third Reich anew in a Fourth Reich... And with all that information confirmed by historical documentation, sleep tight....if you can do so..... A flawless and deeply frightening look at a period in history that best not be forgotten lest it be repeated!
First, let me urge you to so some extensive reseach into the history of the Vatican's involvement with the Nazis both before, during, and after WWII as well as records finally released in the last two decades regarding Pope Luis XII and the corruption in which he was complicit... Your blood will run cold, Then research deeper into the wealth looted by the Nazis from individuals and countries they conquered/looted, that disappeared and the VERY small percentage that was ever recovered...it boggles the mind. And finally, discover how many many high profile Nazis were never captured/ prosecuted but instead " escaped" with new identities to live out their lives to a ripe old age in comfort. If you are not already awash in tears of fury and shock, imagine that wealth at work in the hands of zealots who still to this day despise the Jews and await the chance to resurrect the specter of the Third Reich anew in a Fourth Reich... And with all that information confirmed by historical documentation, sleep tight....if you can do so..... A flawless and deeply frightening look at a period in history that best not be forgotten lest it be repeated!
May 11, 2020
Before I start I have to admit that I am a huge fan of the Rex Dalton series by JC Ryan. This one is, in my opinion, the best so far. It is based on real events during the second world war and I found both the storyline and the historical events fascinating. Even though I've read a fair bit about the looting activities of the Nazis, the theft of the books from the two libraries in Rome was something I'd not heard of before. As I've come to expect from JC Ryan, the story was fast-paced, with lots of attention to detail, along with humour amongst the team. Any book set in WW2 needs sensitive handling and the author manages this very well. There were times when I had a lump in my throat reading the parts when the backstories of the older Jewish characters were told, and times when I was enraged on behalf of those who were badly treated by "the bad guys". As ever my favourite character in the book is the remarkable Digger, ably assisted by his human pack, of course. This is another highly recommended book.
I was supplied with an ARC for review by the author but this is a book I'd happily have bought myself.
I was supplied with an ARC for review by the author but this is a book I'd happily have bought myself.
August 1, 2020
High energy adventure
This was like reading a very active historical adventure. There was so much energy in the writing, I was totally engaged in this story that was an ‘on the go’ hunt for historical artifacts. There also was plenty of suspense with unknown bad guys and I loved the counter surveillance that was going on to figure out who the bad guys were.
The writing had an excellent flow to it, the characters had great dialogue with plenty of witty banter to give it that realistic feel. Characters were hard core, but down to earth. There were a lot of people involved from present day to the past so the reader needs to pay attention to keep track of everyone. The descriptions throughout the book of their locations were great, the details were very well done and painted a great picture for the reader. This is a stand alone story but there are prior books in the series that the author did a good job of getting the reader caught up with who is who.
Highly recommend, I am looking forward to going back and reading the series from the start. I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed.
This was like reading a very active historical adventure. There was so much energy in the writing, I was totally engaged in this story that was an ‘on the go’ hunt for historical artifacts. There also was plenty of suspense with unknown bad guys and I loved the counter surveillance that was going on to figure out who the bad guys were.
The writing had an excellent flow to it, the characters had great dialogue with plenty of witty banter to give it that realistic feel. Characters were hard core, but down to earth. There were a lot of people involved from present day to the past so the reader needs to pay attention to keep track of everyone. The descriptions throughout the book of their locations were great, the details were very well done and painted a great picture for the reader. This is a stand alone story but there are prior books in the series that the author did a good job of getting the reader caught up with who is who.
Highly recommend, I am looking forward to going back and reading the series from the start. I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed.
November 17, 2020
Different but still excellent!!
An absolutely enjoyable read which had me losing lots of sleep. This book is very similar to the other Rex Dalton books with regards to being a great story with lots of action and suspense, Digger being his amazing self and Rex doing the right thing. But, the book is also quite different in terms of Rex expanding his team and not being just a one-man-one-dog show, a lot more history included which required a massive amount of research and which made for very interesting reading.
I love history and the way in which JC Ryan manages to weave the historical facts into the story kept me reading late into the night with not a single minute of boredom.
The story takes you through many countries and cities and the descriptions of each scene is just enough to make you feel as if you are there and part of the story.
I generally get very bored, very quickly with film sequels and seldom watch past the second sequel. Imagine my surprise that a series can have book 9 still being such a spell-binding page turner!
An absolutely enjoyable read which had me losing lots of sleep. This book is very similar to the other Rex Dalton books with regards to being a great story with lots of action and suspense, Digger being his amazing self and Rex doing the right thing. But, the book is also quite different in terms of Rex expanding his team and not being just a one-man-one-dog show, a lot more history included which required a massive amount of research and which made for very interesting reading.
I love history and the way in which JC Ryan manages to weave the historical facts into the story kept me reading late into the night with not a single minute of boredom.
The story takes you through many countries and cities and the descriptions of each scene is just enough to make you feel as if you are there and part of the story.
I generally get very bored, very quickly with film sequels and seldom watch past the second sequel. Imagine my surprise that a series can have book 9 still being such a spell-binding page turner!
July 25, 2020
Rex and Digger join forces with Catia to determine if two Jewish libraries stolen in Rome are still in existence and where they might be. The whole topic is the basis for Catia's PhD dissertation. The story leads into danger, suspense, and death as forces from WWII continue the Nazi philosophy. This may be #9, but the story is as fresh as a beginning. The narrative bounces back to the dark days of WWII to highlight characters who play a role in the missing books. Once again Digger is astounding as he identifies the bad guys and supports Rex and Catia. This book is written so well the reader is drawn in and seems to live the adventure. Ryan knows how to tell a story. I received an advanced copy of this book through Authorsxp, but had to be reminded to read it. I find all the Rex Dalton stories to be interesting, entertaining and informative.
August 4, 2020
Under The Pope’s Windows (a Rex Dalton Thriller) is a non-stop roller coaster ride from the first page. Newlyweds Rex and Catia, along with Digger, an exceptional dog, are trying to find the two lost libraries, The Biblioteca della Communita Israelitica (Library of the Jewish community of Rome) and the Biblioteca del Collegio Rabbinico Italiano, (Italian Rabbinical College Library). Both were taken by the Nazis during WWII. As they search for them, the Dalton’s will have to enlist the help of the CRC and the Mossad to assist them. Follow along on their journey through Europe on their search for these libraries. If you like historical fiction and thrillers, you will love this fascinating read. I highly recommend this book. I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
January 12, 2021
An Exciting Thriller,& Mystery, Based on Historical Facts
As a die-hard thriller reader, as well as a history buff, I appreciated the effort by the author to produce this novel.
The melding of his characters, “Rex Dalton”, “Digger” “Catia Dalton”and others from previous books with history resulting in this book was masterful.
I highly recommend this book.
As a die-hard thriller reader, as well as a history buff, I appreciated the effort by the author to produce this novel.
The melding of his characters, “Rex Dalton”, “Digger” “Catia Dalton”and others from previous books with history resulting in this book was masterful.
I highly recommend this book.
November 30, 2021
Research!!??
A fun romp around Europe while ‘researching’ Catia’s PhD leads our young gang thru troubles, heart lifting and heart-wrenching times, with Digger always present for a little consolation, a bit of laughter, some apprehensions and intimidations. Great characters, some new Dalton info to nosh and develop, and a future to consider.
A fun romp around Europe while ‘researching’ Catia’s PhD leads our young gang thru troubles, heart lifting and heart-wrenching times, with Digger always present for a little consolation, a bit of laughter, some apprehensions and intimidations. Great characters, some new Dalton info to nosh and develop, and a future to consider.
June 3, 2024
A lot of history with a great story wrapped around it
There is a lot of history in this Rex Dalton book…initially, more than I typically like, but it all works neatly, putting together and telling of a great adventure. A little change of pace for Rex and Catia, but lots of fun as well.
There is a lot of history in this Rex Dalton book…initially, more than I typically like, but it all works neatly, putting together and telling of a great adventure. A little change of pace for Rex and Catia, but lots of fun as well.
January 8, 2025
A fantastic story and series
4 1/2 stars
This was an intense, complex, and heartbreaking story of how much WWII impacted the world, mostly the horrific and inhumane actions of the German Nazi, even almost 75 years later. It's certainly not a story that you'll want to miss.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
4 1/2 stars
This was an intense, complex, and heartbreaking story of how much WWII impacted the world, mostly the horrific and inhumane actions of the German Nazi, even almost 75 years later. It's certainly not a story that you'll want to miss.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
April 12, 2025
Best series I have read
Outstanding in all ways. Love it when justice is served! Characters are real and appealing. The dog hero is the best. Have had 14 GermN shepherds and it is free to hear the exploits of such wonderful companions. They are indeed brilliant .
Looking forward with much anticipation to more from this author
Outstanding in all ways. Love it when justice is served! Characters are real and appealing. The dog hero is the best. Have had 14 GermN shepherds and it is free to hear the exploits of such wonderful companions. They are indeed brilliant .
Looking forward with much anticipation to more from this author
May 19, 2020
Loved the book!!
Reading the atrocities was a bit hard even though there we not many details or descriptions. Still, it hurts to read it once more and to think of how many things that belonged to a Jewish family out there it’s sad, maddening and frustrating. The book has the right dose of action with Catia, Digger, Josh and Marissa. A new plot line in the series will make it exciting: start a family and be the CEO of the CRC? Will Rex take the job?
Reading the atrocities was a bit hard even though there we not many details or descriptions. Still, it hurts to read it once more and to think of how many things that belonged to a Jewish family out there it’s sad, maddening and frustrating. The book has the right dose of action with Catia, Digger, Josh and Marissa. A new plot line in the series will make it exciting: start a family and be the CEO of the CRC? Will Rex take the job?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2021
Intriguing, Mysterious and Romantic
The Rex Dalton series never disappoint me. I keep reading and getting action, romance, historical information and lots of intrigue and laughter. Digger is as interesting as his human counterparts.
The Rex Dalton series never disappoint me. I keep reading and getting action, romance, historical information and lots of intrigue and laughter. Digger is as interesting as his human counterparts.
June 14, 2021
If only some wishes came true
As a young child I read many stories and lost them along life's path. I greatly enjoyed this book...it was much more enriching and did not spend time explaining the previous books. I love the story and plot line. Thanks for the read.
As a young child I read many stories and lost them along life's path. I greatly enjoyed this book...it was much more enriching and did not spend time explaining the previous books. I love the story and plot line. Thanks for the read.
August 12, 2021
Review of Under the Pope's Windows (A Red Dalton Thriller)
I liked this a little less than the other books in the past. It seemed like there was more detail than the other books . leaving me reading , but a little bored. Still a good tale though.
I liked this a little less than the other books in the past. It seemed like there was more detail than the other books . leaving me reading , but a little bored. Still a good tale though.
December 19, 2022
Thriller
I really loved how this fiction tied into history. Got me interested in learning more and researching the Libraries and the intrigue around the looting of Europe by the Nazi regime. Well done.
I really loved how this fiction tied into history. Got me interested in learning more and researching the Libraries and the intrigue around the looting of Europe by the Nazi regime. Well done.
February 20, 2023
Amazing book!!
This book is great!! It was very hard to put the book down. I Love Digger.!! The group is so good together. Really keeps you on the edge of your seat. I'm ready for the next book. Let's go!!
This book is great!! It was very hard to put the book down. I Love Digger.!! The group is so good together. Really keeps you on the edge of your seat. I'm ready for the next book. Let's go!!
August 24, 2024
Under the Pope’s Windows
I can see that the Pope let the Nazis do all that and more to the Jewish people.
I love Digger! I love all these characters and the storylines. Get the books and leave your reviews.
I can see that the Pope let the Nazis do all that and more to the Jewish people.
I love Digger! I love all these characters and the storylines. Get the books and leave your reviews.
March 11, 2025
great read from start to finish
The book takes a while to get through laying the foundation of the story but once it gets going it is a thrill ride to the end. I really enjoy reading these adventures of Rex and Digger and associates.
The book takes a while to get through laying the foundation of the story but once it gets going it is a thrill ride to the end. I really enjoy reading these adventures of Rex and Digger and associates.
April 13, 2025
great series
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
September 1, 2025
Like the previous books, action packed and past paced. The plot twists keeps you on the edge of your seat. The number or regular characters have expanded in number adding more depth and interest to the plot.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews