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The Divine Joke
What if all greatest religious and spiritual leaders missed something?
A cryptic riddle is posted on the Twitter account of a Cicada 3301, a faceless organization labeled as the biggest mystery of the internet age.
Unaware of its existence, Tom partied his way through Yale and now excels as a Pentagon analyst. That is, until the grandmother he never met dies in Greece and he receives an odd letter at her funeral. An invitation to a dusty old barbershop in Washington, DC.
Accompanied by his new friend Victoria, Tom finds himself in wild pursuit of clues to solve the Cicada riddle. They believe it’s their only chance of reaching the old barber who turned their lives upside down and mysteriously disappeared.
But what they discover is an ancient scheme to open human consciousness. A scheme that is finally coming to fruition thanks to modern technology. And unless the two most unlikely people uncover the elusive truth—visible for all to see but neglected for generations—humanity will face a prospect too sweet to resist.
Fans of Dan Brown will be delighted by this raw and provocative spiritual mystery.
Get ready for a thrill ride that may leave you enlightened and shaken.
The Divine Joke is raw and provocative spiritual mystery. Get ready for a thrill ride that may leave you enlightened and shaken.
A cryptic riddle is posted on the Twitter account of a Cicada 3301, a faceless organization labeled as the biggest mystery of the internet age.
Unaware of its existence, Tom partied his way through Yale and now excels as a Pentagon analyst. That is, until the grandmother he never met dies in Greece and he receives an odd letter at her funeral. An invitation to a dusty old barbershop in Washington, DC.
Accompanied by his new friend Victoria, Tom finds himself in wild pursuit of clues to solve the Cicada riddle. They believe it’s their only chance of reaching the old barber who turned their lives upside down and mysteriously disappeared.
But what they discover is an ancient scheme to open human consciousness. A scheme that is finally coming to fruition thanks to modern technology. And unless the two most unlikely people uncover the elusive truth—visible for all to see but neglected for generations—humanity will face a prospect too sweet to resist.
Fans of Dan Brown will be delighted by this raw and provocative spiritual mystery.
Get ready for a thrill ride that may leave you enlightened and shaken.
The Divine Joke is raw and provocative spiritual mystery. Get ready for a thrill ride that may leave you enlightened and shaken.
- GenresEbooks
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2020
208 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Stemr
1 book7 followersThomas is a new author writing from his experiences. His book, The Divine Joke, is a fact-based mystery thriller that transcends genres. It builds on fascinating (yet unknown) aspects of the world we live in.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 7, 2020
Very good read!!
At first I didn't know where it was going. But by the 2nd chapter I was hooked. Couldn't put it down.
At first I didn't know where it was going. But by the 2nd chapter I was hooked. Couldn't put it down.
September 1, 2020
I had the chance to read an unedited version as well as the polished one. The first one blew me away, the second one twice so. It's as if you combined Tom Clancy and Dan Brown. You don't wanna miss this one.
January 28, 2021
Thought this would be more like the DaVinci Code.
A cryptic riddle is posted on the Twitter account of a Cicada 3301, a faceless organization labeled as the biggest mystery of the internet age.
Unaware of its existence, Tom partied his way through Yale and now excels as a Pentagon analyst. That is, until the grandmother he never met dies in Greece and he receives an odd letter at her funeral. An invitation to a dusty old barbershop in Washington, DC.
Accompanied by his new friend Victoria, Tom finds himself in wild pursuit of clues to solve the Cicada riddle. They believe it’s their only chance of reaching the old barber who turned their lives upside down and mysteriously disappeared.
But what they discover is an ancient scheme to open human consciousness. A scheme that is finally coming to fruition thanks to modern technology. And unless the two most unlikely people uncover the elusive truth—visible for all to see but neglected for generations—humanity will face a prospect too sweet to resist.
Spirituality theme was excellent but it took too long to get there.
A cryptic riddle is posted on the Twitter account of a Cicada 3301, a faceless organization labeled as the biggest mystery of the internet age.
Unaware of its existence, Tom partied his way through Yale and now excels as a Pentagon analyst. That is, until the grandmother he never met dies in Greece and he receives an odd letter at her funeral. An invitation to a dusty old barbershop in Washington, DC.
Accompanied by his new friend Victoria, Tom finds himself in wild pursuit of clues to solve the Cicada riddle. They believe it’s their only chance of reaching the old barber who turned their lives upside down and mysteriously disappeared.
But what they discover is an ancient scheme to open human consciousness. A scheme that is finally coming to fruition thanks to modern technology. And unless the two most unlikely people uncover the elusive truth—visible for all to see but neglected for generations—humanity will face a prospect too sweet to resist.
Spirituality theme was excellent but it took too long to get there.
September 23, 2020
Looking for Meaning?
A thought provoking little piece of not quite scify that takes you on a journey that is sometimes light hearted and nearly ridiculous and, at others, deep and serious.
I have always taken my spirituality seriously. Learning at churches and synagogues, online classes and universities. I have defended my faith and tried hard to walk and accept 'my path'. How very odd to have a story like this impact my thoughts and experiences over decades! It was also delightful, enlightening, and, yes, fun!
Did the story change my faith? Everything experienced everyday changes your faith. But, no, the story does not crash down decades of growth, but it just might inspire decades of future growth!!
Thomas Stemr, you have fully entertained a hard core science fiction fan and have done so in such a subtle way that the Joke truly did not become apparent until the very end! Thank you for such a delightful experience!
A thought provoking little piece of not quite scify that takes you on a journey that is sometimes light hearted and nearly ridiculous and, at others, deep and serious.
I have always taken my spirituality seriously. Learning at churches and synagogues, online classes and universities. I have defended my faith and tried hard to walk and accept 'my path'. How very odd to have a story like this impact my thoughts and experiences over decades! It was also delightful, enlightening, and, yes, fun!
Did the story change my faith? Everything experienced everyday changes your faith. But, no, the story does not crash down decades of growth, but it just might inspire decades of future growth!!
Thomas Stemr, you have fully entertained a hard core science fiction fan and have done so in such a subtle way that the Joke truly did not become apparent until the very end! Thank you for such a delightful experience!
October 13, 2020
Um
Or maybe I should say “om.” This was the kind of read that takes some brain power to follow, so do not attempt it lightly. Also, you may need to open your mind beyond the borders that you may typically be comfortable with. In that vein, it’s an interesting read. As a Christian, I didn’t love it.
As a reviewer (who won it in a Goodreads giveaway), I have to say that there are some typographical errors and it doesn’t flow as well as it could. Ironically, conversation between the characters was shallow and jumped around. That said, the history was interestingly told and fascinating.
Or maybe I should say “om.” This was the kind of read that takes some brain power to follow, so do not attempt it lightly. Also, you may need to open your mind beyond the borders that you may typically be comfortable with. In that vein, it’s an interesting read. As a Christian, I didn’t love it.
As a reviewer (who won it in a Goodreads giveaway), I have to say that there are some typographical errors and it doesn’t flow as well as it could. Ironically, conversation between the characters was shallow and jumped around. That said, the history was interestingly told and fascinating.
September 28, 2020
I enjoyed reading the book because of the style of writing. I followed the story easily but it was extremely unbelievable and it totally reminded me of a less literature-ish type of the DaVinci code. The characters were distinct and memorable and I especially like Youseff, both of them or all of them since they're all named that lol. I didn't like Frank at all and Joe was just okay. Vick ( lol), was not exactly my favorite either but Tom was a great storyteller and I was interested in him enough to keep on reading. The best part was the Black Bon! Very well written!!!!!
March 3, 2021
it was a good book at first...sort of DaVinci codeish..but as the book went on, it went through a tangent by way of a detour. I read it so I could see the ending, but right there at the tip of the story line, the book ended. The author asks if we get the joke. I am thinking that I did get the joke and its on him as I only used Kindle Unlimited and didn't pay $5.00 for it. SO it was a fast read and had alot of interesting points. 5 for creativity, but the abruptness of the ending gives me a final rating of 3.5 stars
September 17, 2020
What are we doing here?
To me this was not a fun read. But I also feel that it was important to read. It is so appropriate to this time of pandemic during which we have so many questions about life and society and what is going on around us. I wanted to give up reading this book so many times but something compelled me to finish. I'm glad I did. I have a lot of self introspection to do now.
To me this was not a fun read. But I also feel that it was important to read. It is so appropriate to this time of pandemic during which we have so many questions about life and society and what is going on around us. I wanted to give up reading this book so many times but something compelled me to finish. I'm glad I did. I have a lot of self introspection to do now.
October 1, 2020
Very interesting
This book has a definite journey. It builds you up through all the intrigue, personal experiences of each character and then, at the end, pulls it all together beautifully. The message was clear. The message is important. “Until you make your unconscious conscious, it will direct your life, and you will call it fate.”
I recommend this book to anyone who is “searching for enlightenment.”
This book has a definite journey. It builds you up through all the intrigue, personal experiences of each character and then, at the end, pulls it all together beautifully. The message was clear. The message is important. “Until you make your unconscious conscious, it will direct your life, and you will call it fate.”
I recommend this book to anyone who is “searching for enlightenment.”
November 3, 2020
Truth, reality itself!
Seekers of truth will be drawn to this book! Your conclusions are so exact . Some will be ecstatic others disappointed , though you are right on. Those brief moments of oneness inform us to remain centered amidst the chaos, and to allow everyone the space to find truth in their own time. Carry on Thomas
Seekers of truth will be drawn to this book! Your conclusions are so exact . Some will be ecstatic others disappointed , though you are right on. Those brief moments of oneness inform us to remain centered amidst the chaos, and to allow everyone the space to find truth in their own time. Carry on Thomas
December 28, 2020
A bit too confusing at times, the first half seemed like a very straightforward linear “lets google it” quest. It got better for the second half. Not really keen on the Wuhan-related mentions. Overall quite readable if you enjoy Dan Brown-like stories - but not as good as Dan Brown. Some thought-provoking ideas towards the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2020
I’m glad to be done with this book. It looks like I’m in the minority, but I just didn’t appreciate this story. It felt like there was no depth to the story at all. It had the feeling of National Treasure or Da Vinci Code, but at a much more amateurish level. I don’t like to quit books that I’ve started and that’s the only reason that I finished this book. I don’t plan to read more books by this author.
September 15, 2020
A great read never boring
Normally I tend to read spacey books but The Devine Joke caught my eye , that and the subject matter how could I go wrong .I
The world wide chase and just enough reality to keep you reading on.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Normally I tend to read spacey books but The Devine Joke caught my eye , that and the subject matter how could I go wrong .I
The world wide chase and just enough reality to keep you reading on.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
October 1, 2020
Exploring the eternal questions
A very thought provoking story. It both answered questions and posed new ones. This book helped me walk along my spiritual path. The story is simple and interesting, but it explores deep and abiding questions.
A very thought provoking story. It both answered questions and posed new ones. This book helped me walk along my spiritual path. The story is simple and interesting, but it explores deep and abiding questions.
November 1, 2020
Circle of Life
I'm not sure if I believe this entire experience, but was an interesting concept . Age puts a different perspective on life, especially when it comes to faith, ego, and the pursuit of happiness. Enjoy each day, the experience is worth it.
I'm not sure if I believe this entire experience, but was an interesting concept . Age puts a different perspective on life, especially when it comes to faith, ego, and the pursuit of happiness. Enjoy each day, the experience is worth it.
January 5, 2021
I found the book entertaining, but also confusing at times. Seems to be a bit of a jumble of mystery,science fiction and fantasy
It was interesting. I really don't have anything more to add. It will be interesting to read your next novel..
It was interesting. I really don't have anything more to add. It will be interesting to read your next novel..
January 25, 2021
I don’t know if I got it
But I enjoyed this book. It’s very well written and there’s not any glaring grammatical errors as there are in many of these unedited books. I liked it but it’s not for everyone.
But I enjoyed this book. It’s very well written and there’s not any glaring grammatical errors as there are in many of these unedited books. I liked it but it’s not for everyone.
February 12, 2021
Not my cup of tea
I can’t give the book a negative review, as this is judy too far from my bed.
I read for relaxation and this wasn’t what I was looking for.
But, if you’re into mysticism, it’s excellent for you.
I can’t give the book a negative review, as this is judy too far from my bed.
I read for relaxation and this wasn’t what I was looking for.
But, if you’re into mysticism, it’s excellent for you.
April 19, 2021
A good story, a better perspective on living.
This is both an adventure story and a spiritual adventure as well. It’s worth the read for both. I found it interesting in that I found myself looking at my realities from a little different perspective and that’s never a bad thing.
This is both an adventure story and a spiritual adventure as well. It’s worth the read for both. I found it interesting in that I found myself looking at my realities from a little different perspective and that’s never a bad thing.
May 14, 2021
Excellent read
I will read this many times , this is what,through my reading Dorothy Cannon , I have come to believe is our purpose in living in our human existence, and we keep coming back until we get it right.
I will read this many times , this is what,through my reading Dorothy Cannon , I have come to believe is our purpose in living in our human existence, and we keep coming back until we get it right.
October 25, 2021
Great read!
I couldn’t put this book down, at the same time I had to put this book down to reflect and what I read. At times I was frustrated reading this book wanting answers. Truly I tell you it was worth the wait to get them.
I couldn’t put this book down, at the same time I had to put this book down to reflect and what I read. At times I was frustrated reading this book wanting answers. Truly I tell you it was worth the wait to get them.
November 6, 2021
Interesting
This book was very interesting to me. It may not be for everyone since it challenges many preconceived notions. Read with an open mind and feel with an open heart. After you’re done, where are you?
This book was very interesting to me. It may not be for everyone since it challenges many preconceived notions. Read with an open mind and feel with an open heart. After you’re done, where are you?
September 24, 2020
Interestingly different
This book made me want to research and start my own journey into subjects I've placed on the back burner due to life. Looking forward to the next adventure.
This book made me want to research and start my own journey into subjects I've placed on the back burner due to life. Looking forward to the next adventure.
October 20, 2020
Truth
Well this book was enlightening i do believe it is not for everyone but the answers it gives is definitely for the most serious seekers of truth
Well this book was enlightening i do believe it is not for everyone but the answers it gives is definitely for the most serious seekers of truth
November 20, 2020
Great Read
Good time reading this book. I enjoyed everything after the first chapter, good balance between action and meaningful clues. Well done
Good time reading this book. I enjoyed everything after the first chapter, good balance between action and meaningful clues. Well done
December 11, 2020
The divine joke
It’s a journey, we are all seeking something, but maybe we’re looking for the wrong something! The answer is right there!
It’s a journey, we are all seeking something, but maybe we’re looking for the wrong something! The answer is right there!
January 15, 2021
What does this mean?
Not sure I actually got the end point as the author intended - but this is an enlightening concept and the book kept me thinking.
Not sure I actually got the end point as the author intended - but this is an enlightening concept and the book kept me thinking.
January 29, 2021
?
Not certain how to respond. Lots of ideas discussed on religons. Life. Beliefs. Humanity. Need time to absorb and consider to the concept. Offered in this fictional novel.
Not certain how to respond. Lots of ideas discussed on religons. Life. Beliefs. Humanity. Need time to absorb and consider to the concept. Offered in this fictional novel.
January 30, 2021
Strangely fascinating!
This premise was interesting but did get a bit too long. I found it intriguing and informative especially regarding the places in the book!
This premise was interesting but did get a bit too long. I found it intriguing and informative especially regarding the places in the book!
March 1, 2021
I was skeptical when I started reading this book but at different points in the book it just touched a nerve. I can only say, read it, see where it takes you. I like where it took me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews