Review of Contours of the skull

[Nzube Chizoba Okeke]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Contours of the skull" by Sebastian C. Alverius.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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In Contours of the Skull by Sebastian C. Alverius, Roderick A. Scott-Padilla sat in Room 102 before Brother Matthew Costo, the vocations director at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, in an interview that was going to determine the course of his life. Born into a Southern Baptist family from South Carolina, Roderick took a stand for his affection toward the Catholic church and his attendant interest in monk life. Actively pursuing this interest, he toured monasteries in search of one with which to spend his life possibly. He discovered he was comfortable at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit and was accepted as a monastic observer to become one of them eventually. However, Roderick's resolve to live the monk life was tested by the solitude of monastic existence and made worse when demons from his past started to surface.

Contours of the Skull was a profoundly emotional and reflective story that followed Roderick A. Scott-Padilla's journey. The author's language was simple, easy to comprehend, and yet had a literary feel. The story was authentic.

Roderick A. Scott-Padilla, as a character, was nothing short of human yet enigmatic in his peculiar way. His journey to become a monk was symbolic of self-discovery and a life characterized by the usual ups and downs. Roderick was a relatable character whose insecurities may reflect that of many people. His longing for some purpose or absolution was so palpable and persuasive that readers would be unwittingly recruited as his cheerleaders — anxiously waiting and hoping for the best outcome on his behalf. The insight given about his background allowed a better understanding of his character. The most exhilarating part of Roderick's story was the metamorphosis that occurred within him through his journey. Unfortunately, readers would be drawn into the experience and a journey with or without their permission.

This book gave insights into monastic life. Many stereotypical views about the lives of monks were challenged. Alverius allowed us to see a funny, accessible, and vibrant side of monk life as opposed to the lonely, stuck-up, and puritanic image that society had created. At the same time, it was a positive spotlight on the catholic church and the beauty that abounded in their rituals and traditions.

Contours of the Skull was a transformative story with deep spiritual undertones. The book communicated many inspiring messages of love, healing, growth, forgiveness, and hope for a better tomorrow. Central to the story was the message of self-love, which would be a life-changing takeaway for readers of this book.

I enjoyed reading this book and disliked nothing. It impacted my mental health as many parts of the story felt like an extended therapy session. The book rekindled trust in the spiritual and healing power of God. Contours of the Skull was professionally edited with minor errors. I'd recommend this book to readers on a journey of self-discovery and those interested in monastic life. I'd rate it five out of five stars. Readers should know that there were explicit descriptions of sexual activities.

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Contours of the skull
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[Gee Mbora]

Interesting review. I has guessed it was a book about crime but turns out a religious novel. Based on this review, it's looks like the book has a dark theme and will make an interesting read.