Review of The Sulphur Priest

[Oyedeji Okikioluwa]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Sulphur Priest" by Adrian Boas.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The Sulphur Priest by Adrian Boas is a historical mystery that loops two intertwining periods together with more than six centuries interval. The book explores the theme of love, war, loyalty, and religion.

The book begins in the early 20th century with an excavation at Montfort Castle. John Riley is the archaeological head of a team made up of his two assistants, Robert Palmer and Lawrence Walker, with several villagers in excavating what remains in the castle ruins. The period switches to the 13th century, where a squire named Hermann escorts an older man, Albert, by the command of Commander Ulrich, on his quest to find his missing son, Bernard. Bernard was a prior and was last seen six years ago on a journey to obtain the arm of John the Baptist as a relic. Drawing closer to his last breath, Albert yearns to uncover the mystery around his son's disappearance and end his days in peace. They journey across lands and stop by the great castle for a brief break and more information. Back to the 20th-century excavation, John Riley and his team uncover a secret chamber that raises many questions and suspicions regarding the castle's fall. Their work is under threat by a disgruntled employee who appears to have a bitter vendetta against John Riley. Would he succeed?

Adrian Boas is a magnificent storyteller and plot genius! The first story set in the 13th century makes the plot baseline for the second story set in the 20th century. It is a beautiful interplay with an immersing plotline—the narrative dances between the first and third-person perspectives. There's a soothing balance between major and minor characters. The book is also professionally edited, as I observed a few errors that did not disturb my reading enjoyment.

The book satiates my hunger and beyond as a lover and fan of the historical novel. The Sulphur Priest plays like a movie with a smooth interval change between timelines occurring in sequenced events. I like the little love story that adds a sweet touch to the plot and the relatability of the characters. I ardently support a movie adaptation which should, of course, be done with much specificity to the storyline. The book is also very detailed with descriptive imagery. My favorite character is quite hard to choose because it's a tight tie between John Riley and Squire Hermann. There are both men of integrity and humility with noble hearts. My favorite scene is Walker running off path and downhill.

This goes to be one of my favorite books. There is nothing I dislike in the book. A lot of thought, care, and grueling hours of detailed writing went into the production of this incredible story. For these reasons, I rate The Sulphur Priest 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, mystery, and archeological content.

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The Sulphur Priest
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[marta baglioni]

Well, what can I say? This is flying to my shelf.
Thank you!

[Ekezie1998]

This looks like quite an intriguing plot. Would definitely love to have this book on my shelf.

[Paluk Pathania]

First and foremost, the book's title is both unique and intriguing. I enjoyed the author's exploration of the many subjects. It somehow piques my curiosity in the book. Thankyou for this insightful review!

[emmas1010]

To be sincere, this book is top notch and superb. I can't afford to lose this book to any intruder. Just too fantastic and enjoyable. Two thumbs up!

[kirthana_shivakumar]

This looks very interesting. It's also one of my favourite genres so I'll definitely give it a try. Thanks for the review!