What do you think?
Rate this book
God's Lions #1
The Secret Chapel
Summoned to Rome by an old friend, a Jesuit scholar finds himself using a code discovered in the Bible to find an ancient, hidden chapel in the catacombs under the city. When a rogue force of Vatican security officials are alerted to his discovery, the priest flees to the Holy Land with a clue . . . a clue that will lead him and a team of Israeli Christians to a much larger secret in the middle of the barren Negev Desert. Meticulously researched and drawing on scientific fact, John Lyman's intriguing story takes us into the world of scholars, archaeologists, code-breakers, and intelligence specialists who have discovered a prophetic code hidden within the Old Testament that authenticates the Bible as a book of supernatural origin and points to a divine plan. This gripping novel is truly a thought-provoking and action-packed thriller with implications for our future.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2009
258 people are currently reading
637 people want to read
About the author
John Lyman
11 books62 followersJohn Lyman is the bestselling author of the "God's Lions" series of books. He describes his novels as "spiritural thrillers" for the times we live in. John is currently at work on the third book in the series, "God's Lions - The Dark Ruin".
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
July 20, 2011
The story had some promise but there were things that just annoyed the hell out of me. The plot is over the top - Left Behind Series times two - but that's not what bugged me. For a bunch of priests, archeologists and ex military folks, there wasn't a moment when they weren't in a opulent villa or yacht or private jet or Blackhawk helicopter all staffed with personal chefs and servants. It was ridiculous. It was a rigerous schedule of confront the devil and then break for a lovely seaside picnic with the girlfriend. That's where he lost me and I skimmed over much of the book. Oh well.
June 29, 2011
My Lyman has hit a home run. His research into name and their meanings, along with historical data weaves this tale into a great weekend read.
I'll read more novels by this author.
I'll read more novels by this author.
June 29, 2011
God's Lions was a wonderful spiritual thriller and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I finished it last night. It left me wanting a sequel! :o) I loved the characters and the unity, love and compassion that was always evident under the surface; and how the transcendence across the different religions and working together as a whole to overcome evil. Fast paced + page-turning = a great read!!
January 22, 2023
This is a DaVinci Code/ Left Behind type of book with a little bit of raiders of the lost ark
This book is based upon the concept of the Bible or Torah Code
A group of 5 people nicknamed God's Lions have been chosen by the code to recover a relic that is important to Satan. The group is a Jesuit Priest, a Jesuit candidate, a Israeli Christian archeologist, his daughter and their security expert.
There are baddies from the Vatican, and another mysterious agency. There are all sorts of disasters and tragedies. Its very fun but unrealistic
This book is based upon the concept of the Bible or Torah Code
The Bible code, also known as the Torah code, is a purported set of encoded words within a Hebrew text of the Torah that, according to proponents, has predicted significant historical events. The statistical likelihood of the Bible code arising by chance has been thoroughly researched, and it is now widely considered to be statistically insignificant, as similar phenomena can be observed in any sufficiently lengthy text
A group of 5 people nicknamed God's Lions have been chosen by the code to recover a relic that is important to Satan. The group is a Jesuit Priest, a Jesuit candidate, a Israeli Christian archeologist, his daughter and their security expert.
There are baddies from the Vatican, and another mysterious agency. There are all sorts of disasters and tragedies. Its very fun but unrealistic
April 25, 2019
Interesting Scene Being Set
Very interesting take on the end time scenario start. I enjoyed the history and the teamwork between different cultures and religions. The end twist was great too. I disagree with a few of the author’s ideas but still enough in common for enjoying it. I am off to get the next one in the series!
Very interesting take on the end time scenario start. I enjoyed the history and the teamwork between different cultures and religions. The end twist was great too. I disagree with a few of the author’s ideas but still enough in common for enjoying it. I am off to get the next one in the series!
July 16, 2025
baaaaad.
September 5, 2012
I so much wanted to love this book, but now that I've finished... I don't feel it even deserves one star.
Set in our present time, God's Lions - The Secret Chapel, follows the journey of a Jesuit priest - Father Leo. Leo has arrived in Rome on the summons of his best friend from seminary, Father Anthony Morelli - the Vatican's head of archeology. Upon arriving, Leo is immediately drawn into Morelli's latest project - finding a secret chapel under St. Peter's Basilica - a chapel mentioned in a secret code found in the Bible. The discovery of the chapel opens a larger can of worms in the Bible Code, and Father Leo soon finds himself in the Holy Land face to face with Satan's second in command. It's a journey of great peril, and if he fails - the world may come to a premature end.
Unfortunately, the author composed this tale very poorly. Every aspect from the characters, plot, setting, dialog etc - all had fatal flaws. Development and consistency were the biggest issues. There were multiple instances of details not matching up from beginning to end. For example, at the beginning Morelli gave a pretty clear mission to Leo. Later, it seems that the author forgot that he already revealed those key plot details and the characters stumbled upon them all over again - in clear shock to the characters. The majority of the book was spent with the characters relaxing in the lap of luxury, and the plot was sped along by different characters suddenly being able to piece together the puzzle pieces to move them to their next step... hardly was it ever sped along by them doing much more than feasting at the villa.
The Bible Code, the driving point of the whole plot, was an incredibly flawed concept (as portrayed by the author.) Described by Morelli at the beginning, the Bible Code was a computer program that crawled the original hebrew text for hidden messages. Later, the Bible Code was driven by key word searches... with comments from the characters about there being no other way than to plug in key words - another inconsistency. The hidden messages were found by letters being aligned on pages to form words, words crossing over other words, etc - the biggest flaw. At no point did the author state that it was a certain transcription of the Bible that they were using, and considering how the earliest copies are incomplete and no two alike (they didn't have printing presses back then!!) - it really brings to question the entire basis of the hidden messages. If they're using pages from multiple copie, that would open up the possibilities for infinite "hidden messages." It was made clear that they were using "pages" of the Bible, and not the plain text entered in like a word processor.
Aside from the supernatural events, the author had a hard time getting even earthly events correct. There were several instances where he made up terms, or described events in such an impossible way. Events without ANY supernatural action!
If you want to read a book filled with improbabilities, impossibilities, huge inconsistencies, stiff characters who do nothing but soak up luxuries, with a little bit of a religious thriller plot -- then this is the book for you.
Set in our present time, God's Lions - The Secret Chapel, follows the journey of a Jesuit priest - Father Leo. Leo has arrived in Rome on the summons of his best friend from seminary, Father Anthony Morelli - the Vatican's head of archeology. Upon arriving, Leo is immediately drawn into Morelli's latest project - finding a secret chapel under St. Peter's Basilica - a chapel mentioned in a secret code found in the Bible. The discovery of the chapel opens a larger can of worms in the Bible Code, and Father Leo soon finds himself in the Holy Land face to face with Satan's second in command. It's a journey of great peril, and if he fails - the world may come to a premature end.
Unfortunately, the author composed this tale very poorly. Every aspect from the characters, plot, setting, dialog etc - all had fatal flaws. Development and consistency were the biggest issues. There were multiple instances of details not matching up from beginning to end. For example, at the beginning Morelli gave a pretty clear mission to Leo. Later, it seems that the author forgot that he already revealed those key plot details and the characters stumbled upon them all over again - in clear shock to the characters. The majority of the book was spent with the characters relaxing in the lap of luxury, and the plot was sped along by different characters suddenly being able to piece together the puzzle pieces to move them to their next step... hardly was it ever sped along by them doing much more than feasting at the villa.
The Bible Code, the driving point of the whole plot, was an incredibly flawed concept (as portrayed by the author.) Described by Morelli at the beginning, the Bible Code was a computer program that crawled the original hebrew text for hidden messages. Later, the Bible Code was driven by key word searches... with comments from the characters about there being no other way than to plug in key words - another inconsistency. The hidden messages were found by letters being aligned on pages to form words, words crossing over other words, etc - the biggest flaw. At no point did the author state that it was a certain transcription of the Bible that they were using, and considering how the earliest copies are incomplete and no two alike (they didn't have printing presses back then!!) - it really brings to question the entire basis of the hidden messages. If they're using pages from multiple copie, that would open up the possibilities for infinite "hidden messages." It was made clear that they were using "pages" of the Bible, and not the plain text entered in like a word processor.
Aside from the supernatural events, the author had a hard time getting even earthly events correct. There were several instances where he made up terms, or described events in such an impossible way. Events without ANY supernatural action!
If you want to read a book filled with improbabilities, impossibilities, huge inconsistencies, stiff characters who do nothing but soak up luxuries, with a little bit of a religious thriller plot -- then this is the book for you.
November 20, 2025
Great story, but profanity detracted from it
The story was exciting and memorable. The characters were very intriguing and worked well together. The one downside was the profanity. It was mild by today's societal standards, but the Bible is very clear about the use of profanity- it is never ok. There are many well known Christian authors who write with no profanity.
I do highly recommend this book.
The story was exciting and memorable. The characters were very intriguing and worked well together. The one downside was the profanity. It was mild by today's societal standards, but the Bible is very clear about the use of profanity- it is never ok. There are many well known Christian authors who write with no profanity.
I do highly recommend this book.
September 27, 2011
When John Lyman sent me the the book pitch, what caught my attention was that this book contained the theme of codes in the Torah. Intrigued, I couldn't turn down this book. What I liked about this book was the vivid portrayal of some scenes, especially the scenes involving spiritual encounters. I could easily picture those scenes and I shuddered at just thought of them. I also liked the way this book reinforces that Scripture is God-breathed and everything happens for a reason. However, this book is not without its faults. The narration was awkward at a few parts, especially the parts where similes were used. I also found it unthinkable that a priest could exclaim "Oh, my God." I don't come from a Catholic background, I come from a Protestant background. And I can't imagine any of the pastors I know exclaiming "Oh, my God." That would be viewed as sacrilegious. I completed God's Lions: The Secret Chapel with mixed feelings. I loved the vivid descriptions and will definitely pick this book up when I want to read a horror story, but I felt that the narration could have been better.
September 10, 2011
I just finished reading this book and thought it was one of the best thrillers I've read this year. Mr. Lyman has done a masterful job of wordcrafting, developing characters, and planning and plotting ahead. He's very much of the caliber of Dan Brown in his writing style.
I've been a pastor for almost 30 years, and don't share his concepts of angels or demons, but just put the theology aside and enjoy the story. In the first part of the story, the author rants on the failings of American culture and the government, and social change in America. This really has nothing to do with the story line or the action, so I skimmed that part.
That having been said, he makes his human characters believable and the geographic placement of the action plausible.
I highly recommend this book for every adult. Theology aside, it is a very entertaining page turner and I'm really looking forward to his next book.
I've been a pastor for almost 30 years, and don't share his concepts of angels or demons, but just put the theology aside and enjoy the story. In the first part of the story, the author rants on the failings of American culture and the government, and social change in America. This really has nothing to do with the story line or the action, so I skimmed that part.
That having been said, he makes his human characters believable and the geographic placement of the action plausible.
I highly recommend this book for every adult. Theology aside, it is a very entertaining page turner and I'm really looking forward to his next book.
April 3, 2012
I just finished reading God's Lions: The Secret Chapel by John Lyman. I had not heard of Mr. Lyman before but a friend of mine recommended the book. I'm very glad he did. The book is based around the idea that there are hidden codes within the bible and that God uses these codes to direct a group of people that He has chosen. This chosen group is tasked to find a hidden chapel underneath the Vadican along with an ancient artifact in the desert and then bring said artifact back to the chapel.
The book is very well written. The characters are interesting and the story moves along quickly. The book is hard to put down and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series. Anyone who is a fan of the National Treasure movies or of The Davinci Code books will most likely enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.
Congratulations to Mr. Lyman on an exceptional book. You've made a fan out of me.
The book is very well written. The characters are interesting and the story moves along quickly. The book is hard to put down and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series. Anyone who is a fan of the National Treasure movies or of The Davinci Code books will most likely enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.
Congratulations to Mr. Lyman on an exceptional book. You've made a fan out of me.
April 2, 2011
This was a good book and I loved the ending.The action was moved at a great pace which made this book flow from start to finish.
May 9, 2011
Very bad:( Didn't even finish it.....
July 11, 2011
What an incredible hidden gem! One of the most fast paced, well written books I've read. Can't wait for the sequel. You must read this book!
December 6, 2011
What's with all the yachts and villas? Escaping from evil is a bit easy when you have the millions to afford a few convenient helicopters...
August 31, 2013
This was a heart-pounding thriller with some twists and turns that kept me on my toes! I just downloaded book 2 of the series and am anxious to get reading! Have to charge my Kindle first!!
July 8, 2018
Initially, I was excited to read this book. After all, as a happy Catholic, anything that has a Jesuit, a Franciscan and a converted Jew in a suspenseful mystery that includes angels and a few nasty demons piques my interest.
In the end, the book was okay, not earth-shaking, and containing definitely — a few cringe worthy moments. It's tediously obvious that the writer wants to include a superficial catechism once in a while, describing what a kibbutz is, a little bit about the curia, et al. It's also painful to listen to the author's bias when it comes to priestly celibacy. As I'm in the middle of the second book, and I'm forced to read yet again (listen this time) to the same diatribe, my head shakes. I'm mentally counting at least 15 priests I count as friends, who are very adamant about this sensitive issue. Celibacy is celibacy, whether it's hetero or homosexual. (I do know one priest with same/sex attraction who is a wonderful priest and profoundly celibate)
In the book, there's a wedding somewhere, not to throw in a spoiler. However, there's no way any priest I know, and especially a seminarian who thinks it's okay to have a wedding on a beach. It might be in talks in some present synods, but every priest I know (and I know my fair share) would balk at the idea of a such a sacrament in a secular location.
And there's the sense that only people with lots of monetary resources can make a difference in the world. One person has a ship with three floors, and compounds with every kind of resource possible, a multi-millionaire priest, etc. Lots of conversations about famous chefs, wine, Cuban cigars, and all of the pleasures of the world, (sans sex). It seems all of the intrigue and world-changing things have to be performed by millionaires who have private jets, helicopters, castles, et al.
So far away from a penniless shoe-less friar who changed the world for the better with his simple faith (Francis).
In the end, the book was okay, not earth-shaking, and containing definitely — a few cringe worthy moments. It's tediously obvious that the writer wants to include a superficial catechism once in a while, describing what a kibbutz is, a little bit about the curia, et al. It's also painful to listen to the author's bias when it comes to priestly celibacy. As I'm in the middle of the second book, and I'm forced to read yet again (listen this time) to the same diatribe, my head shakes. I'm mentally counting at least 15 priests I count as friends, who are very adamant about this sensitive issue. Celibacy is celibacy, whether it's hetero or homosexual. (I do know one priest with same/sex attraction who is a wonderful priest and profoundly celibate)
In the book, there's a wedding somewhere, not to throw in a spoiler. However, there's no way any priest I know, and especially a seminarian who thinks it's okay to have a wedding on a beach. It might be in talks in some present synods, but every priest I know (and I know my fair share) would balk at the idea of a such a sacrament in a secular location.
And there's the sense that only people with lots of monetary resources can make a difference in the world. One person has a ship with three floors, and compounds with every kind of resource possible, a multi-millionaire priest, etc. Lots of conversations about famous chefs, wine, Cuban cigars, and all of the pleasures of the world, (sans sex). It seems all of the intrigue and world-changing things have to be performed by millionaires who have private jets, helicopters, castles, et al.
So far away from a penniless shoe-less friar who changed the world for the better with his simple faith (Francis).
February 21, 2022
This is a four book series, and I have enjoyed reading these books so very much. I am reviewing only one of the books, but this one review covers all four of them. It is a spectacular series. It is active from start to finish, and you don't want to stop reading. The characters are realistic with excellent dialogue. These books are about the forces of good and evil, and you can certainly see what is happening in our world now reflected in these books. The genres can be what you want. It covers all of them, from love, science, to great adventure. If you enjoyed the DaVinci Code, you will enjoy this series. I think it is outstanding.
July 10, 2023
A Good Read
It started a little slow but boy, it sure picked up speed. I enjoyed reading about Rome, the Negev, the Basilica. It has sparked a desire to research these places myself. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and look forward to seeing them again in the series. I know there is evil in this world but as a Christian, I trust in the Lord.
It started a little slow but boy, it sure picked up speed. I enjoyed reading about Rome, the Negev, the Basilica. It has sparked a desire to research these places myself. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and look forward to seeing them again in the series. I know there is evil in this world but as a Christian, I trust in the Lord.
April 8, 2025
True rating is actually 1.5 out of 5
Bottom line: The Secret Chapel tries to revive the outdated Bible Code conspiracy but falls flat with repetitive storytelling, weak pacing, and a lack of originality. Despite an intriguing premise, it never delivers real tension or believability, making it feel more like a chore than a thriller.
Bottom line: The Secret Chapel tries to revive the outdated Bible Code conspiracy but falls flat with repetitive storytelling, weak pacing, and a lack of originality. Despite an intriguing premise, it never delivers real tension or believability, making it feel more like a chore than a thriller.
July 14, 2017
Exciting complex story
Great story with a great deal of unexpected action. It's a real cliff hanger. Expect to stay up late at night since it's almost impossible to put down. AND it's only the first in a series.
Great story with a great deal of unexpected action. It's a real cliff hanger. Expect to stay up late at night since it's almost impossible to put down. AND it's only the first in a series.
March 21, 2018
Great
This was on going action. A lot of bible reference to evidence and lots of mystery. The characters were believable and likable. I learned a little more of many things. I look forward to the next book.
This was on going action. A lot of bible reference to evidence and lots of mystery. The characters were believable and likable. I learned a little more of many things. I look forward to the next book.
October 24, 2018
Two stars for a good story. But, the theology behind the story is so different than mine that I cant bring myself to praise the book with a higher ranking. Sorry, I am not catholic and do not agree with the theology.
April 6, 2019
I loved this book a real rollicking adventure with a great good versus evil plot line. Despite the very pro religion backstory I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from this series.
November 17, 2019
Fun, well-paced adventure read! If you like Dan Brown or Clive Cussler you will enjoy this story. A little sci-fi-ish at point when it talks about demons and Satan but not too much where you lose interest.
April 7, 2021
3,5 stars
3,5 stars
Interesting but I had the feeling that this huge buildup, that’s been going on for about 70% of the book, culminated in such a short scene. It fell flat for me there, however the writing was engaging.
3,5 stars
Interesting but I had the feeling that this huge buildup, that’s been going on for about 70% of the book, culminated in such a short scene. It fell flat for me there, however the writing was engaging.
December 20, 2024
Good. Other reviews have criticised the opulence of the ‘lifestyles’ of the main characters. That aside. I enjoyed the story and would like to read others in the series. I believe there is a follow up. Edit:- I have since read that this first novel is about to be made into a movie.
January 1, 2025
If you are a “believer”, this work will not be worth your time. The author is not even really trying. And to try to include a janky piece of excrement romance on top of this crapola only makes me mad. I am thoroughly convince that it will not get better — I quit on this in chapter 24.
May 12, 2025
Wow!!
This has been an exciting read. I started it & could not put it down. I finished it in 2.5 days. So good!! John Lyman, you sure know how to make a novel come to life! Thank you & God bless!!! 🙏❤️⚘️ I'm onto the 2nd one now!
This has been an exciting read. I started it & could not put it down. I finished it in 2.5 days. So good!! John Lyman, you sure know how to make a novel come to life! Thank you & God bless!!! 🙏❤️⚘️ I'm onto the 2nd one now!
August 5, 2017
Feels rushed in some ways, and sometimes all is just a bit too wonderful... but I'll try the next one too...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews