Despite some issues I had with the plot I really quite enjoyed this one. I enjoyed the fact that I was able to solve parts of the mystery (because I am so slow I never usually see what's going to happen next) but this was also the novel's downfall. I felt that if the characters were experts in their fields they should have picked up on clues and solved some of the riddles alot faster than they did - if I could work it out, then they should be able to. Then at other times they seemed to just pluck answers from nowhere, but I went with that anyhow. So if you're able to overlook that aspect it is worth a read.

Was going to do a wild release on this one but my partner wants to read it first, so looks like i'm doing a controlled release to him.

Fiance didn't look like he was going to read it anytime soon so I lent it to Pene-Grande.

This copy has been out to pene grande (unfinished) and munkeys (she enjoyed it) and now has returned to me. MrFizz is still talking about reading it, but if it looks like he isn't going to again I may just send it on its way.

I had avoided reading this book because I don't like to follow the mob, whether it be following fashion trends or reading the latest "best seller". However, after Rainbowfizz recommended this book to me I thought I would give it a go as her taste in reading matter is trustworthy.

The first few chapters in, I still couldn't see what everyone was raving about. It seemed to be a standard murder/thriller. Once the puzzles and the radical anti-church ideas began to flow, that was when I became hooked.

I think the great benefit of the widespread popularity of this book is the sparking of debate over theological issues and a new-found interest in art history by a new generation.

Thumbs up.