Gold of Kings

Storm Syrrell #1

by Davis Bunn

Investigating the murder of her grandfather, Storm Syrrell discovers that his arts and antiques business served as a front for secret international dealings. Not only did her grandfather know of his impending death but he also left her the responsibility for his lifetime quest.

Enter Harry Bennett, a professional treasure hunter just released from a Caribbean jail. And Emma Webb, a US Treasury agent with links to Interpol.

Their trail leads to London, France, Istanbul, Cyprus, and ever deeper into danger. A vital clue is discovered within the Copper Scroll of Hidden beneath the dusty mysteries of two thousand years lies a fortune in gold with timeless significance.

With the tangled motives of greed and power coming into focus, something unexpected tugs at Storm. These treasures represent a vital connection to an ancient faith. Will her quest include a personal transformation as well?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Christian, Adventure

368 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2009

About the author

Davis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than eight million books in twenty languages.

Honored with four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, Davis was inducted into the Christy Hall of Fame in 2014.

His bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was serves as Writer in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.

Davis Bunn also writes under the names Thomas Locke (for his epic fantasy and techno-thriller novels) and T. Davis Bunn (for books published prior to 2002).

Reviews

[Jacob · Rating 2 out of 5]

This guy is an award winning author, but don't think this was one of his better works. I had a hard time following the story. He didn't set scenes well and often left out details in order to be suspenseful I think but just made me think I had missed something. Apparently there was a deeper meaning to the book, but definitely missed that. Sorry Davis, wouldn't recommend this one...

[Jeanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had a hard time with this book. I did not connect with the characters. I connected more to the character who was killed and dead within the first chapter. I didn't understand or comprehend the relationship between Harry and the two women. It didn't make any sense to me and the author wasn't real clear throughout this entire novel. I found myself lost throughout this entire book and wondered many times how the 3 treasure hunters got to where they were and why. I don't get lost in too many books but several times I wondered how did they figure this out? I felt like the author was not clear. I don't like everything to be spelled out, but he was so vague I felt like he gave you nothing to go on and left you wondering and confused many times during this "adventure." Not only confused with the storyline, but with the characterizations and relationships with each other. I just never got to know any of the characters, therefore ended up not really relating or caring too much about them. I will not read another book with these characters or another book by this author. And that's too bad because this book had potential, a storyline that seemed intriguing. It just wasn't well written, I couldn't relate or get into it.

[Cathy Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gold of Kings by Davis Bunn has it all: thrills, chills, spills and a romance to boot! What's not to love about this story?

Storm Syrrell is an elegant and elusive heiress to her grandfather's arts dealership. When he dies unexpectedly, her world is torn upside down.

Harry Bennett is a treasure dog who has been all over the world searching for treasure. His latest venture? A lengthy tour of a prison in Barbados. When his sentence is drastically reduced, and he finds himself a free man once again, he learns that his friend, Sean Syrrell, requested a final favor of him: to protect his grand-daughter.

Emma Webb is a federal agent and part of a multi-agency task force intent upon uncovering secrets in the world of treasure hunting and arts dealing. The only problem? A boss whose real mission is not to find the truth, but to build his reputation and further his career.

The three lives intersect, and lead the reader on an explosive, and sometimes terrifying, quest for truth. Great story!

(See more at http://wordvessel.blogspot.com)

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun, entertaining, and interesting book. The story of a long time "treasure dog" doing one of his best friends (Sean) one last favor after Sean's death, and protecting his granddaughter. Through meeting the granddaughter (Storm), he (Harry) begins, with Storm, a hunt for some of the most sought-after and desired treasure, that no one had ever been able to find. There are lots of twists and turns, and the excitement that comes along with the main characters being hunted. There are a number of attempts on their lives throughout the book, which adds to the excitement and intrigue. I read through this book pretty quickly - it was a great page turner, and it really kept me interested from start to end. A fun book, and one I would definitely recommend!

[Christy Trever · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gold of Kings by Davis Bunn is a fast-paced suspenseful thriller about the quest for an ancient treasure. Storm Syrrell's world has fallen apart. Her grandfather Sean fired her from the family business of selling rare and high priced pieces of art just before dying of a heart attack. To make things worse, she's not even mentioned in the will. Harry Bennett has spent the last three years of his life wasting away in a jail cell in Barbados for a crime he didn't commit. Sean's actions in his last days will bring them together, along with federal agent Emma Webb on a search for treasures from the Second Temple in Jerusalem that sends that traveling across the globe and fighting for their very lives. In the growing genre of treasure hunting books, Gold of Kings is unique in its various subplots of family betrayal and international money laundering. Harry and Emma are a interesting, romantic couple who seem to have too many differences to ever overcome their chemistry, and Storm is the emotional touchstone of the book with her grief over Sean's death and her struggle to understand his life. There's a lot of suspense, double-crosses, and treasure, and it would make a fantastic movie. My one quibble with the book, is that I never felt emotionally connected with the characters. I didn't feel Storm's grief or the romantic sparks between Emma and Harry. Even the nail-biting scenes were a bit removed. I'm not sure why I didn't connect with this book, but if Bunn writes a sequel (as the ending seems to imply), I'll definitely check it out to give the characters who have so much potential another chance.

[Margaret Chind · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now this was a fun book! "Gold of Kings" is quite adventurous and easily can be visualized as an action film much like National Treasure or the Da Vinci Code films in theory. The reading of this book gives off a similar vibe to Matt Bronleewe's August Adams series, although it is not quite as cool in my opinion as I just loved those books, but really like this one.

There are really three main characters that you are following through out the book in their physical, mental, and spiritual battles. The adventure is laid out for the reader to enjoy right along with the characters. The only flaw points that draw me back are the parts where a character figures something out, but it is hidden from the reader. That makes me feel like an outsider, and I love the stories that are as if you are right along side them, and not viewing from a window, you know?

One of the best parts about this book are the historical facts and images that are brought to life and explained through out. As the characters are learning some historical pieces of the puzzle the explanations are given to the reader as well in an intriguing manner. Maybe it is because I have a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and this is just my thing, but over all I was thoroughly impressed and plan to look for more titles like this from Davis Bunn in the future.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book opens with Sean Syrrell, a dealer in art and antiquities, firing his granddaughter from his firm, and then within an hour being killed. Before he died, he arranged for a treasure hunter, Harry, to be released from prison in Barbados, where he has been confined because he found a treasure that the government wanted for its own. Harry is given instructions to protect Sean's granddaughter, a headstrong girl with the unfortunate name of Storm. The two team up, and together they begin to unravel the events that led to Sean's untimely end.


Davis Bunn, the author of nineteen national bestsellers, is obviously an excellent writer and he shows his stuff in Gold of Kings. I was drawn in immediately, and compelled to keep turning pages to the end. When Storm and Harry and Emma (a lawyer who's in deep with the FBI and Interpol) realize they're tracking the stolen treasures from Herod the Great's Second Temple, my interest perked up even more. Bun provides plenty of action, some of the most compelling chapter endings I've ever read, and a satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed this book more than I expected to, and even got used to Storm's distracting name. If you like fast-paced plots and intricate stories with a touch of history sprinkled throughout, you'll enjoy this book.

[Sherene · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the best historical thriller I've read. The story took a good 100 pages to get going and when I found out the treasure was the Second Temple gold, I was excited. However, there is a lot of situational explanation and character exploration and not enough history. If I took out all the paragraphs dealing with the actual history, it would probably come out to maybe 10 of the 300-odd pages. Alright, I'm probably exaggerating but I felt cheated out of a good history lesson on the Second Temple treasure. On the other hand, the whole character exploration made me more invested in the characters than I realized as towards the end I found myself involved in their well-being. The author could have also used better editors as I felt the grammar was choppy and there were a number of spelling errors. I think I read on someone else's review that this book could be considered the cotton candy of the genre. So I guess, this book is good for a lite read but other than that I found few redeeming qualities. If you're looking for a book that only skims the surface on a historical level but goes into depth about the characters and surroundings, you've picked up the right tome.

[Billy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well developed, character-driven, not suspenseful. Still Good!

I expected a little more suspense from this book. A worldwide search for an eons old religious treasure with the requisite bad guys, both inside and outside of the government, chasing our would-be heroes; it's all a setup for a suspenseful read. The suspense never arrived.

This, because the author writes characters so well, did not detract from the story. The characters were written well, deep, and understandable, with personal demons and trust issues abounding. There was a little bit of suspense, but I would not qualify this as a suspense novel. It is a character study wrapped around a slightly suspenseful tale.

Still, there is enough to keep the story taut and to keep the reader riveted. I enjoyed this book and enjoyed getting to know the characters. The main reason I didn't give this 4 stars is that it did cling to a few of the typical cliches in this genre. But I can still recommend this as an excellent diversion and a quick read.

[Rossrn Nunamaker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Davis Bunn's Gold of Kings was a decent quest based suspense novel, but my three stars are on the closer to two side of the rating scale.

I liked the three main characters, Harry, Emma, and Storm, as well as Hakim and Leon, and while mostly a memory Sean had a powerful role throughout as well.

While other books I'd read featured people seeking treasure or to uncover a historic object of significance, this one just didn't seem to strike me with strong enough motivation for doing so. It may have been because Harry was a treasure hunter and thereby it was a guy doing his job.

Yes, there were reasons for them doing so, it simply didn't build for me the way others had. I also found there wasn't quite enough challenge in finding/tracking the treasure itself.

Again, not a bad book, a quick read, decent summer read, but not anything to get overly excited about.

[Tepcat · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was not a book that I couldn't put down. It was a book that I was happy to go back to however. I really looked forward to picking it back up and reading the next page or chapter. The characters were interesting and believable - you wished that you really knew them. The world of treasure hunters and art dealers was fascinating. I know that I would have a hard time not keeping some of the things that were described as passing through. The inter-relationship of the characters was happily unpredictable from the first page. You knew there would be a romance, but the characters that ended up together weren't the initial guess. I don't think I will forget this book or the characters. It wasn't the best I have ever read, but it was one that I am glad I read.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised by how much I liked this book. I didn't expect to hate it, but I didn't think I'd enjoy it like I did.

I really liked the protagonists - Harry, Storm, and Emma. Although, Emma was my least favorite of the three. Something about her just wasn't quite right. And I found the relationship between Harry and Emma a bit hard to swallow. Something about it just didn't seem right to me. But, I'm able to overlook that. The story itself was well-written and very engaging. I especially liked that there were some occurrences I didn't see coming. It's great when a book surprises me and I can't necessarily see what's coming.

Gold of Kings was an engaging, fun, and suspenseful story. I had fun reading it, and will be looking for more books by Davis Bunn.

[Rachel Lubow · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this captivating treasure hunt novel, Davis Bunn causes readers to consider priorities, legacy, and loyalty. Bunn's writing is refreshing and restrained. While reading Gold of Kings, I often paused to consider artful structure, masterful phrases, and strong word choice. Both scenes and characters are vivid and memorable, and the story is not overly emotional, dramatic, or cliche. I also appreciated the characters' imperfections and the novel's ending, which was satisfying yet not too tidy.

I recommend Gold of Kings to readers searching for a fresh, mature, fast-paced novel written by a Christian who tastefully communicates important themes.

[Jeanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got an advanced reader copy of this book; so let me see if I can give you my best opinion on this book. First let me say I felt it was written very well, and the characters are very likeable. This book started a bit slow for me, I did not feel until ½ way through the book did the real excitement started. To me a book they gets five stars is one I just can’t put down because I can wait to see what happen next this one just did not do that for me until I reached the final chapters. But having read this book I am interested in reading other from this writer.

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This would make a great film. (Well, actually it would depend on the actors chosen, how the screenwriters adapt it and change the ending to what they think moviegoers want.) The plot is believable. The characters were well developed, but the dialogue read more like a script than a book. The action hits fast and moves.

I found myself taking the book to work so I could read a few pages over lunch, then to the gym after work...a few miles on the treadmill went quickly.

Good read. I'm going to look up the author's other books.

[Alissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the hunt for treasure and the action parts of this book, especially the prison break scene. But I have to admit some of the dialog left me a little confused and I would have to reread parts to catch what was going on.

[Daniel Rudge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Will she decipher the mysteries leading to the sacred relic, or be defeated by the foes racing to claim it and destroy her?A dealer in art and antiquities, Storm Syrrell arranges her life as she does her work -- into neat, orderly categories. But when her grandfather is murdered, all certainties are crushingly replaced by suspicions. She struggles to understand his death -- and decipher the frayed leather journal she finds hidden in his vault. Storm soon realizes that, far from being simply a discreet art broker, Sean Syrrell was a trusted go-between in the highest ranks of business and government in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

But not all of Sean's associates were quite so lofty. Enter Harry Bennett, a scruffy professional treasure hunter just released from a Caribbean jail, followed by Emma Webb, a US government lawyer with links to Interpol. Storm pushes her doubts aside, locks the door to her Palm Beach art gallery, and opens herself to the quest begun by her grandfather.

Their trail leads them ever farther afield -- London, France, Istanbul, Cyprus -- and ever deeper into danger. The thrill of the search is haunted by Storm's determination to bring Sean's murderers to justice. Storm and Harry in turn are targeted by an unknown assassin and saved from death only by Harry's split-second reactions.

Their quest homes in on the Copper Scroll of Qumran and controversial claims made by the Jewish historian Josephus. Hidden beneath the dust and mysteries of two thousand years lies the reason behind Sean Syrrell's murder and the find of a lifetime: a fortune in gold of great historical significance. Storm begins to grasp the potential magnitude such artifacts will have on contemporary religion and politics -- especially the competing historical claims to Jerusalem. Some seek to claim the gold for the treasure it represents; others are determined to destroy it. With the tangled motives of greed and power now in focus, old allies become new enemies. Through this, something unexpected tugs at Storm. The sacred relics represent a formidable metaphor to an ancient faith; will her search include a renewal of her own faith?

[Amy Leigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting treasure hunt thriller with two strong female leads and a male lead who (mostly) treats them as equals.

Harry Bennett is serving time in a Barbados jail for a crime he didn't commit when he's abruptly released, a year and a day earlier than he expected. He learns his release was arranged by his old friend Sean Syrrell, an antiques dealer whose recent death was likely no accident. Sean's last request was for Harry to look after his granddaughter Storm.

Storm can't believe her grandfather fired her from her position in his antiques business, and he didn't even mention her in his will. But when agent Emma Webb shows up to tell Storm about a secret vault whose contents her grandfather left her, Storm starts to suspect her grandfather knew how much danger he was in.

Together, Harry, Storm, and Emma must unravel the mystery of Sean's death. In the process, they uncover an international crime operation and follow clues that may lead to one of the greatest treasures ever lost.

The book has lots of action, an intriguing treasure hunt, and mostly likeable protagonists. A quick, enjoyable read.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably not one of the best Davis Bunn books, but it was thrilling. I enjoy a good adventure novel, actually it's one of my weaknesses. I'm drawn to them like a moth to a flame, especially if they have archaeology intwined within the pages.
The only thing is that this book seemed to go everywhere. I get there were three main characters, but it seemed he focused on one more than the other two, especially since Storm was supposed to be the lead. Despite that, it was a good thrill to read.
One good thing about it, the cleanliness of the book. No cuss words. No graphic violence. It was welcoming compared to many other adventure novels today, which thrive on the cuss words and love scenes.
Recommend, if you don't mind being a bit patient with the jumping.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

I entirely loved this book by Davis Bunn! Definitely recommended for fans of "National Treasure," "White Collar," and/or art/religious/everything history. Fascinating, impeccably researched, and combining many of my favorite things into one read.

Fans of Bunn's other art series ("Florian's Gate," "Amber Room," and "Winter Palace") will also really enjoy this. It felt super similar to that, which thrilled me to no end as it's one of my favorite series ever (and truly where I feel Bunn excels as a writer).

[Kristina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve read other books by Davis Bunn. So I thought I knew what to expect. That was not so. There were sections I read twice because I didn’t understand what happened or how the characters got to where they were. Then there were sections that seemed to drag on forever. I’m wondering if there were some issues with editing?? BUT the premise of the book was great. A discovered painting that leads to a triptych that leads to treasure- very entertaining and exciting.

[Lillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable adventure in antiquities, treasure hunting and international crime

Another well written adventure novel that takes the reader on a hunt for lost treasure and along the way exposes them to fascinating details of the international religious arts and antiquities business and the dangers of modern treasure hunting and money laundering. As always Davis Bunn has done his homework to create engaging characters involved in highly plausible plots.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes I discover a book while browsing the library shelves and wonder how I’ve overlooked it. On the other hand, it’s a treat to discover a gem by a great author and settle in for a great story.
Bunn is a master storyteller and this tale has all the things I’d expect in an ancient treasure hunt action thriller. Storm and Harry made an unusual duo, but that makes the tale all the better.
I’ll be seeking out the next in the series.

[Natalie Jessop · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was a lot of excitement and thrill in this book, which ultimately is what allowed me to finish. I struggled getting in to it because the author was vague/cryptic, especially in the beginning of the book and it was hard to follow and connect with the characters. The underlying story line was interesting.

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Storm Syrrell, an art dealer, Harry Bennett, a treasure hunter, and Emma Webb, a federal agent go into cahoots to look for hidden treasure from back in the days of King Herod. The face plenty of action and danger since there are those who are determined to stop them.

[Lois Callahan]

First I’ve read of the author. Found it in the Christian book section of my local library. I enjoyed reading of the places the characters went. The book held my attention all the way through. Plan to read more from this author.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent read

Not as thrilling as other Davis Bunn books I’ve read, but definitely a good story. Interesting look into the art world.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of adventure, not always easy to follow but a fun summer read!

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A friend wanted be to read this. It was a quick read for the summer.

[Dlynn1116 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5. Fun book if you like treasure hunting. On to book 2....