Official Review: Lost Secret of the Ancient Ones

[Mallory Porshnev]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Lost Secret of the Ancient Ones" by Chris Reynolds.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Lost Secret of the Ancient Ones by Chris Reynolds is the first book in the series The Manna Chronicles. It follows the story of Maya Harrington who is searching for her father who has gone missing. Her father, Dr. Alex Harrington, is a renowned physicist who has recently uncovered a secret. Armed with the truths he now knows about the world and some of the men behind the secret, his life is in danger. He has sent clues to Maya to help her locate him so that they can be together again. 

By accepting a job for a man who wants her to locate the Garden of Eden, Maya and her friends travel the world in search of clues to find the garden as well as her father. Along the way, they learn more about some of the world's ancient secrets and what it is her father may have discovered. Taking place in this world and parallel ones, this novel explores the idea of mind travel.

This book is reminiscent of Dan Brown mysteries. There is a lot of religion, science, and history involved. The reader is able to learn while at the same time participating in the fun of a fast-paced mystery novel. I enjoyed reading this book. It grabbed my attention and made me curious to unravel the mystery along with the characters. It also seemed like the author put some thought and research into the details of the science and religion behind the themes. 

My favorite part of this novel was the traveling. I enjoyed reading about Peru and Egypt and all of the places Maya and her crew went in their search for clues. I also thought that there was a good supporting cast of characters. Maya's friends, the beautiful Layla and the extremely tall JW, are just a couple of the characters who helped round out this story and made for interesting dialogue and interactions. My least favorite part was that there was a bit too much talk of drug-induced hallucinations, traveling to alternate dimensions, and out-of-body experiences. I appreciate how these were used as plot devices to move the story along, but there were just too many times like this. I found those parts of the story less enjoyable and more difficult to follow. 

I give this book 3 out of 4 stars. It was an interesting and well-crafted tale. I am curious to keep reading the series and to find out what happens to Maya. The characters were all very likeable, and that kept me engaged as well. It doesn't get a perfect score. There were a handful of small editing errors. However, this didn't take away from the experience of reading. I would recommend this book to fans of mystery novels and anyone interested in religion and ancient civilizations. If you're looking for a traditional detective or murder mystery plot, this may not be for you. It's definitely an informative and at the same time action-packed novel that is a fast and fun read. 

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Lost Secret of the Ancient Ones
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[NetMassimo]

This seems an interesting mystery thanks to the use of ancient civilization though I understand your doubts about certain plot elements. Thank you for your great review!

[SamaylaM]

I read this book as well and it definitely reminded me of Angels and Demons by Dan Brown! Great work on your descriptive review!

[shreyagupta]

The book sounds amazing. I love the storyline, thanks for the great review.

[Saint Bruno]

I love books about travelling. Thanks a lot for this detailed review and spot-on recommendation!

[Pluma]

This book sounds like it has a very interesting plot, and the different elements included sound intriguing and unique. Thanks for the great review!

[Eutoc]

I read this book as well and it definitely reminded me of Angels and Demons by Dan Brown! Great work on your descriptive review!

The review got my attention immediately it was likened to Dan Brown's kind of books. I get to learn a lot of history from his books.

[SamaylaM]

I read this book as well and it definitely reminded me of Angels and Demons by Dan Brown! Great work on your descriptive review!

The review got my attention immediately it was likened to Dan Brown's kind of books. I get to learn a lot of history from his books.

I agree! Dan Brown's writing is amazing and his books leave a lot of historical facts or legends for readers!

[Pearl Akpan]

This one seems like an interesting mystery, i’m inclined to give it a shot. Thank you for a wonderful review!

[Leen282]

The comparison to Dan Brown is quite the compliment, and a real invitation to read. Travel is a much-appreciated aspect of the book, and as for the drug-induced hallucinations and out-of-body experiences - I usually don't mind reading about those if it fits the story.

[Brittanie Ray]

This review was very detailed and to the point. The way the book was described can grab any readers attention and makes people want to read the book themselves. I specifically enjoyed the traveling that was mentioned, especially for readers who enjoy adventure. Very well written, great job!!

[Miss_BeckyG]

This intriguing mystery has a great mix of religion, science, and history, combined with a fast-paced, action packed plot. Maya Harrington and the other characters are well-developed. Their adventures take the reader on a journey to different lands and beyond.
This book makes for a great read.
Thank you for your detailed review.

[Supriya Thukral]

This book seems fascinating. I’m a big fan of Dan Brown’s novels and the fact that this book is similar to them gives me an extra incentive to read it. Thanks for the great review!

[Ayushi_Chaudhary]

The review is very much detailed. I would love to explore science and religion together in a story.

[Sushan Ekanayake]

Lost Secret of the Ancient Ones is a whirlwind of mystery akin to Dan Brown, but with a unique twist on mind travel and parallel worlds. If you're into fast-paced adventures with a side of ancient secrets and a dash of metaphysics, you might enjoy unraveling this puzzle with Maya. Congratulations on being BOTD!