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The Order of the Sanguines #2
Innocent Blood
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Horror (2014)A vicious attack at a ranch in California thrusts archaeologist Erin Granger back into the folds of the Sanguines, an immortal order founded on the blood of Christ and tasked with protecting the world from the beasts haunting its shadows and waiting to break free into the sunlight. Following the prophetic words found in the Blood Gospel--a tome written by Christ and lost for centuries--Erin must join forces with Army Sergeant Jordan Stone and the dark mystery that is Father Rhun Korza to discover and protect a boy believed to be an angel given flesh.
But an enigmatic enemy of immense power and terrifying ambition seeks the same child--not to save the world, but to hasten its destruction. For any hope of victory, Erin must discover the truth behind Christ's early years and understand His first true miracle, an event wrapped in sin and destruction, an act that yet remains unfulfilled and holds the only hope for the world.
The search for the truth will take Erin and the others across centuries and around the world, from the dusty plains of the Holy Land to the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean, from the catacombs of Rome to an iron fortress in the Mediterranean Sea, and at last to the very gates of Hell itself, where their destiny--and the fate of mankind--awaits.
With The Blood Gospel, the first novel in the Order of the Sanguines series, James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell breathtakingly combined science, myth, and religion and introduced a world where miracles hold new meaning and the fight for good over evil is far more complicated than we ever dreamed. In Innocent Blood they again take us to the edge of destruction . . . and into the deepest reaches of imagination.
But an enigmatic enemy of immense power and terrifying ambition seeks the same child--not to save the world, but to hasten its destruction. For any hope of victory, Erin must discover the truth behind Christ's early years and understand His first true miracle, an event wrapped in sin and destruction, an act that yet remains unfulfilled and holds the only hope for the world.
The search for the truth will take Erin and the others across centuries and around the world, from the dusty plains of the Holy Land to the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean, from the catacombs of Rome to an iron fortress in the Mediterranean Sea, and at last to the very gates of Hell itself, where their destiny--and the fate of mankind--awaits.
With The Blood Gospel, the first novel in the Order of the Sanguines series, James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell breathtakingly combined science, myth, and religion and introduced a world where miracles hold new meaning and the fight for good over evil is far more complicated than we ever dreamed. In Innocent Blood they again take us to the edge of destruction . . . and into the deepest reaches of imagination.
437 pages, Hardcover
First published December 10, 2013
736 people are currently reading
5939 people want to read
About the author
James Rollins
117 books14.1k followersJames Rollins is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of international thrillers. His writing has been translated into more than forty languages and has sold more than 20 million books. The New York Times says, “Rollins is what you might wind up with if you tossed Michael Crichton and Dan Brown into a particle accelerator together.” NPR calls his work, “Adventurous and enormously engrossing.” Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets matched with stunning suspense. As a veterinarian, he had a practice in Sacramento for over a decade and still volunteers at local shelters. Nowadays, Rollins shares his home up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains with two furry companions, Echo and Charlie. He also enjoys scuba diving, spelunking, kayaking, and hiking. Of course, he loves to travel and experience new places around the world, which often inspire his next globe-trotting adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 624 reviews
May 14, 2014
I spent the entire book going between one and two stars, finally settling on two because of the action packed ending.
The book has a great premise. It is Dan Brown withvampires strigoi mixed in. It has characters such as Lazarus, Countess Elizabeth Bathory and Judas Iscariot. Should be awesome right? Wrong.
First of all I found the characters cliched and completely illogical. There is no rhyme or reason to the characters' actions. For example Elizabeth Bathory killed hundreds of young girls in horrific ways, yet as soon as she meets Tommy she sees her son in him and feels protective.
WTF. You had two daughters. None of those hundreds of girls that you murdered reminded you of your daughters? You even killed a mother in front of her daughter. And we're expected to believe you had some sort of "change of heart" when this little boy comes along?
And the priest Rhun the lover of Bathory, when he finds out what she is he locks her in a coffin for four hundred years. Why? Do you think she'd come out repentant? I'm reminded of a joke I heard once.
If you lock your wife and dog in the trunk of your car for a day which one will be happy to see you?
Can't imagine how she felt after 400 years.
And Erin. Why in the world are you so reverent of Bathory?
In this one instance, Erin agreed with Bathory. The countess had gotten a raw deal-turned into a strigoi, imprisoned in her own castle, then in a coffin for 400 years.
An example of the great editing, several chapters later:
For once, Erin found herself agreeing with the countess.
What is with this kinship these two women seem to share?
Still, Elizabeth had to admit the historian had an athletic grace about her and a fine mind. In another time, another life, they might have been friends.
Or she might have watched you suffocate in a box or cut out your heart to examine it. Or eaten you.
I'm not even going to get started on the "romance" between Erin and Jordan.
It's never good what you feel like it would have made a better book if the main character(s) died half way through.
The book has a great premise. It is Dan Brown with
First of all I found the characters cliched and completely illogical. There is no rhyme or reason to the characters' actions. For example Elizabeth Bathory killed hundreds of young girls in horrific ways, yet as soon as she meets Tommy she sees her son in him and feels protective.
WTF. You had two daughters. None of those hundreds of girls that you murdered reminded you of your daughters? You even killed a mother in front of her daughter. And we're expected to believe you had some sort of "change of heart" when this little boy comes along?
And the priest Rhun the lover of Bathory, when he finds out what she is he locks her in a coffin for four hundred years. Why? Do you think she'd come out repentant? I'm reminded of a joke I heard once.
If you lock your wife and dog in the trunk of your car for a day which one will be happy to see you?
Can't imagine how she felt after 400 years.
And Erin. Why in the world are you so reverent of Bathory?
In this one instance, Erin agreed with Bathory. The countess had gotten a raw deal-turned into a strigoi, imprisoned in her own castle, then in a coffin for 400 years.
An example of the great editing, several chapters later:
For once, Erin found herself agreeing with the countess.
What is with this kinship these two women seem to share?
Still, Elizabeth had to admit the historian had an athletic grace about her and a fine mind. In another time, another life, they might have been friends.
Or she might have watched you suffocate in a box or cut out your heart to examine it. Or eaten you.
I'm not even going to get started on the "romance" between Erin and Jordan.
It's never good what you feel like it would have made a better book if the main character(s) died half way through.
February 2, 2014
The Vampires Bite...and Suck - 2.5 Stars
Before I say anything further, I think it is important to state that this review is for the Audiobook version narrated by Christian Baskous. I really did enjoy The Blood Gospel. I was expecting the second installment to begin where we left off and to be filled with the action and discovery of the first book. In fact, I listed to the audiobook version of the first installment which was narrated by the same person. I don't always advise when I am reviewing an audiobook but in this case, the narration played a major role in my rating. Bad narration can ruin your enjoyment of an otherwise entertaining book.
Plot summary
After the events of the first book, our heroes, human and vampire, come back together to save the world as foretold in the Blood Gospel. The previously unknown (and evil) leader of the strigoi and human alliance reveals himself and his plan to begin Armageddon and told in the Book of Revelation. Are our heroes fighting against inevitable prophecy, being used for some other purpose or fighting against the pride and presumption of a single man.
The Good
They Did One Thing Right
I read the first in the series nearly a year ago and quickly realized I could not remember the majority of the plot from the first installment. While most subsequent books in a series require some recap, I think it is lazy and poor writing to provide a recap on the reader by dumping the info in a massive download. Rollins and Cantrell expertly recap the first book by reminding us of events from time to time throughout the book. Despite my lack of memory, this kept me from feeling lost as I read the book.
The Bad
An Elegy for James Rollins
Ok. This might be a bit of exaggeration but seriously, I have high expectations when I read a James Rollins novel. Generally, the characters well devised, the plot is taunt while moving quickly and the story is well research and intelligent. Unfortunately, none of these adjective describe this book.
While there were many characters, they were often confused, disoriented and unsure of themselves. While I appreciate a good broken and unsure character, I was never able to grasp exactly what it was that motivated the characters (beside the desire that the world not end) from scene to scene. The characters were simply not interesting or not likeable. This is quite the accomplishment considering I liked each of the characters in the first book.
The plot failed to get off the ground. The plot was as confused as the characters. Most James Rollins novels involves characters unfolding or solving some mystery. In this novels, the characters spent the majority of their time chasing shadows without much in the way of a plan. In the end it was only in part luck and logical leaps that allowed them to figure out the pieces missing to solve the puzzle. Additionally, this volume lacks Rollins trademark action. There is very little confrontation between characters and when there is, our heroes are impotent and unable to act.
What is with this Guy
It is hard for me to understand how I can find great enjoyment in the narration of the first book but despise it in the second book. In this book it is as if the narrator took vocal lessons from some daytime soap stars. The pace was soap opera dramatic throughout and ran the gambit from melodramatic to cheesy. The voices he used were mostly bad. Most of the vampires sounded like the traditional, `I vant to suck your blood` Transylvania type vampires. The female voices were either childish sounding or sounded like an effeminate man. While I appreciate that a man doing a female voice is always a difficult task, the narrator made it sound like he wasn`t even trying. I feel as if I would have enjoyed this book more and rated the book higher if I have read this as opposed to listening to it. I you have choice, pick up the book and skip the audio.
Final Thoughts
I have read interviews with James Rollins where to states that his writing partner, Rebecca Cantrell, is the one who is providing the dark and taunt atmosphere of the novels. In this case, there was more atmosphere than content. While the novel made you feel as if you our late at night standing under a streetlamp with a light fog at your at your feet and pack of vampires at your back, the reader become lost in the fog, knocks his head on the lamppost, falls into the fog and is devoured by the undead. A sad day for James Rollins.
Audiobook Notes
Content Advisories
It is difficult to find commentary on the sex/violence/language content of book if you are interested. I make an effort to give you the information so you can make an informed decision before reading. *Disclaimer* I do not take note or count the occurrences of adult language as I read. I am simply giving approximations.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 2.5
While there are no sex scenes to speak of, there is an allusion to one and one interrupted scene. Beyond this, there is also discussion of the erotic feelings when one is turned into a vampire. Several of the characters recount these experience and feelings. There is significant sexual tension and desire between two of the characters for much of the book.
Language - 2
As in most James Rollins novel, adult language is at a premium. I do not recall any uses of the f-word and only minor usage of other adult language.
Violence - 3
There is considerable less violence in this installment. Most of the violence in Rollins novels occurs in confrontations. In this volume, the characters spend their times tracking the bad guys and there are only a few confrontations. A few people die during the confrontation but there is not graphic of gratuitous violence. There is some mild monster violence when there is a recounting of the characters transformation in a vampire state.
Before I say anything further, I think it is important to state that this review is for the Audiobook version narrated by Christian Baskous. I really did enjoy The Blood Gospel. I was expecting the second installment to begin where we left off and to be filled with the action and discovery of the first book. In fact, I listed to the audiobook version of the first installment which was narrated by the same person. I don't always advise when I am reviewing an audiobook but in this case, the narration played a major role in my rating. Bad narration can ruin your enjoyment of an otherwise entertaining book.
Plot summary
After the events of the first book, our heroes, human and vampire, come back together to save the world as foretold in the Blood Gospel. The previously unknown (and evil) leader of the strigoi and human alliance reveals himself and his plan to begin Armageddon and told in the Book of Revelation. Are our heroes fighting against inevitable prophecy, being used for some other purpose or fighting against the pride and presumption of a single man.
The Good
They Did One Thing Right
I read the first in the series nearly a year ago and quickly realized I could not remember the majority of the plot from the first installment. While most subsequent books in a series require some recap, I think it is lazy and poor writing to provide a recap on the reader by dumping the info in a massive download. Rollins and Cantrell expertly recap the first book by reminding us of events from time to time throughout the book. Despite my lack of memory, this kept me from feeling lost as I read the book.
The Bad
An Elegy for James Rollins
Ok. This might be a bit of exaggeration but seriously, I have high expectations when I read a James Rollins novel. Generally, the characters well devised, the plot is taunt while moving quickly and the story is well research and intelligent. Unfortunately, none of these adjective describe this book.
While there were many characters, they were often confused, disoriented and unsure of themselves. While I appreciate a good broken and unsure character, I was never able to grasp exactly what it was that motivated the characters (beside the desire that the world not end) from scene to scene. The characters were simply not interesting or not likeable. This is quite the accomplishment considering I liked each of the characters in the first book.
The plot failed to get off the ground. The plot was as confused as the characters. Most James Rollins novels involves characters unfolding or solving some mystery. In this novels, the characters spent the majority of their time chasing shadows without much in the way of a plan. In the end it was only in part luck and logical leaps that allowed them to figure out the pieces missing to solve the puzzle. Additionally, this volume lacks Rollins trademark action. There is very little confrontation between characters and when there is, our heroes are impotent and unable to act.
What is with this Guy
It is hard for me to understand how I can find great enjoyment in the narration of the first book but despise it in the second book. In this book it is as if the narrator took vocal lessons from some daytime soap stars. The pace was soap opera dramatic throughout and ran the gambit from melodramatic to cheesy. The voices he used were mostly bad. Most of the vampires sounded like the traditional, `I vant to suck your blood` Transylvania type vampires. The female voices were either childish sounding or sounded like an effeminate man. While I appreciate that a man doing a female voice is always a difficult task, the narrator made it sound like he wasn`t even trying. I feel as if I would have enjoyed this book more and rated the book higher if I have read this as opposed to listening to it. I you have choice, pick up the book and skip the audio.
Final Thoughts
I have read interviews with James Rollins where to states that his writing partner, Rebecca Cantrell, is the one who is providing the dark and taunt atmosphere of the novels. In this case, there was more atmosphere than content. While the novel made you feel as if you our late at night standing under a streetlamp with a light fog at your at your feet and pack of vampires at your back, the reader become lost in the fog, knocks his head on the lamppost, falls into the fog and is devoured by the undead. A sad day for James Rollins.
Audiobook Notes
Content Advisories
It is difficult to find commentary on the sex/violence/language content of book if you are interested. I make an effort to give you the information so you can make an informed decision before reading. *Disclaimer* I do not take note or count the occurrences of adult language as I read. I am simply giving approximations.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 2.5
While there are no sex scenes to speak of, there is an allusion to one and one interrupted scene. Beyond this, there is also discussion of the erotic feelings when one is turned into a vampire. Several of the characters recount these experience and feelings. There is significant sexual tension and desire between two of the characters for much of the book.
Language - 2
As in most James Rollins novel, adult language is at a premium. I do not recall any uses of the f-word and only minor usage of other adult language.
Violence - 3
There is considerable less violence in this installment. Most of the violence in Rollins novels occurs in confrontations. In this volume, the characters spend their times tracking the bad guys and there are only a few confrontations. A few people die during the confrontation but there is not graphic of gratuitous violence. There is some mild monster violence when there is a recounting of the characters transformation in a vampire state.
December 22, 2013
Innocent Blood is a very dark mystery thriller with a huge paranormal twist. Think DaVinci Code with vampire priests (Saguines), fallen angels and other immortals. It even has a steampunk element with magical/bio/mechanical creations. Literally this story had it all.
This memorizing story takes place on the brink of an Apocalypse, orchestrated by Judas himself. There is also a historical element that pulls in infamous characters from history into the storyline. All are still playing at political machinations to achieve their goals. What probably amazed me the most was how well Rollins and Cantrell took the purely evil and convoluted it into the gray. Good isn't always good, evil isn't always evil and there is a huge gray area in between. Character's interpretations of good and evil play a huge role in the outcome. There is an absolutely twisting of the Christian biblical belief system, hence the comparison to the DaVinci Code).
Every once in a while you hit a book that is so original its shocking, Innocent Blood definitely amps up the shock value.
Non-stop, pulse pounding action will keep you on the edge of your seat and riveted till the end.
I received this ARC copy of Innocent Blood from William Morrow in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication on December 10, 2013.
Written by: James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell
Series: The Order of the Sanguines
Sequence in Series: 2
Print Length: 448 pages
Publisher: William Morrow
Publication Date: December 10, 2013
Rating: 4 Stars
Genre: Paranormal, Mystery, Thriller, Horror
Learn more at: James Rollins' Website
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
This memorizing story takes place on the brink of an Apocalypse, orchestrated by Judas himself. There is also a historical element that pulls in infamous characters from history into the storyline. All are still playing at political machinations to achieve their goals. What probably amazed me the most was how well Rollins and Cantrell took the purely evil and convoluted it into the gray. Good isn't always good, evil isn't always evil and there is a huge gray area in between. Character's interpretations of good and evil play a huge role in the outcome. There is an absolutely twisting of the Christian biblical belief system, hence the comparison to the DaVinci Code).
Every once in a while you hit a book that is so original its shocking, Innocent Blood definitely amps up the shock value.
Non-stop, pulse pounding action will keep you on the edge of your seat and riveted till the end.
I received this ARC copy of Innocent Blood from William Morrow in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication on December 10, 2013.
Written by: James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell
Series: The Order of the Sanguines
Sequence in Series: 2
Print Length: 448 pages
Publisher: William Morrow
Publication Date: December 10, 2013
Rating: 4 Stars
Genre: Paranormal, Mystery, Thriller, Horror
Learn more at: James Rollins' Website
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
August 25, 2023
5 stars - Mystery/Action Thriller/Horror/Paranormal/Romance
This is such a unique, thrilling, intriguing, and exciting mix of archaeology, history, prophecy, religion, mystery, action, suspense, horror, and even romance. I loved it as much as the first book, and I can't wait for the epic conclusion in Blood Infernal!
Note: I went to church as a child, but I'm not a religious person. I consider myself an agnostic, and I believe the Catholic Church has committed heinous acts and atrocities throughout human history in the name of their religion. Nevertheless, this series is utterly captivating, compelling, and fascinating.
This is such a unique, thrilling, intriguing, and exciting mix of archaeology, history, prophecy, religion, mystery, action, suspense, horror, and even romance. I loved it as much as the first book, and I can't wait for the epic conclusion in Blood Infernal!
Note: I went to church as a child, but I'm not a religious person. I consider myself an agnostic, and I believe the Catholic Church has committed heinous acts and atrocities throughout human history in the name of their religion. Nevertheless, this series is utterly captivating, compelling, and fascinating.
January 10, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I've enjoyed all of James Rollins' books, but when you add Rebecca Cantrell into the mix, you really get a different tone and texture to the storytelling. Like Clive Cussler does in most of his books Rollins is always mixing historical facts within his fiction to come out with a plausible and entertaining story. Rollins books are very action oriented, pulse pounding, and work very well for guys like me who enjoy that kind of stuff. I haven't read Rebecca Cantrell's other novels yet, but I've read all the novels and novellas in this series and I can tell you that her influence adds more than a little femininity and sensitivity to Rollins writing style and the combination of the two give the reader a very different reading experience. The Blood Gospel that came before this novel had one of the great hook-you-in endings that I've read in a long while, and Innocent Blood takes right up where the Blood Gospel left off with the characters that survived trying to move forward in their lives while being dragged right back into the mystical world they thought they left behind. Like many Thrillers this is a chase from beginning to end, that takes twists, turns, and throws surprises at you around every corner. I don't want to give too much away, but there are quite a few bible references in here, to go along with all the supernatural creatures, but the authors throw such a creative spin on everything that you can't help but be entertained. The fury with which they bring the story to it's cataclysmic conclusion was just awesome and had me flipping pages way too late in the evening. I'd highly recommend this book and I am looking forward to the next book because the ending once again has me hooked.
July 28, 2016
Innocent Blood is the second book of the three part Order of the Sanguines series by James Rollins/Rebecca Cantrell. Normally, I don't go for vampire fiction, but I stumbled upon the series being a fan of James Rollins' archeological/thriller genre of novels.
The strength of this series is the unconventional relationships between the characters. Humans work with vampires (Sangiunes) backed by the Catholic Church in order to rid the world of the stigoi (bad vampires) and other corrupt creatures set on the ruin of the world. At times you're not sure if the humans are viewed as teammates or T-bones. Blood flows freely, but grievous injury does not always equate to death. Be prepared for the roller coaster as main characters lose limbs, die, or almost die, return, turn into vampires, become human, and on and on and on. It actually makes the story telling richer as there are few limits.
Rollins and Cantrell use a well-considered recipe of "forbitten" love, loss, and tragedy to turn emotions on a dime. In addition, they pour in the occasional pint of ruthlessness, deceit, and loss over the centuries to develop the characters and provide souls to the soulless.
In this installment, as in the first, the main theme is one of good versus evil. Evil is well defined, though, as indicated previously, it's not always easy to pick out the good, whether they be human or otherwise. Even those wearing vestments and white collars are suspect.
Having revealed no specific information about this novel to potential readers (which isn't always easy), I provide Innocent Blood with a 4.2 out of 5.0 on the expanded scale.
The strength of this series is the unconventional relationships between the characters. Humans work with vampires (Sangiunes) backed by the Catholic Church in order to rid the world of the stigoi (bad vampires) and other corrupt creatures set on the ruin of the world. At times you're not sure if the humans are viewed as teammates or T-bones. Blood flows freely, but grievous injury does not always equate to death. Be prepared for the roller coaster as main characters lose limbs, die, or almost die, return, turn into vampires, become human, and on and on and on. It actually makes the story telling richer as there are few limits.
Rollins and Cantrell use a well-considered recipe of "forbitten" love, loss, and tragedy to turn emotions on a dime. In addition, they pour in the occasional pint of ruthlessness, deceit, and loss over the centuries to develop the characters and provide souls to the soulless.
In this installment, as in the first, the main theme is one of good versus evil. Evil is well defined, though, as indicated previously, it's not always easy to pick out the good, whether they be human or otherwise. Even those wearing vestments and white collars are suspect.
Having revealed no specific information about this novel to potential readers (which isn't always easy), I provide Innocent Blood with a 4.2 out of 5.0 on the expanded scale.
June 2, 2015
Innocent Blood by James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell
Published 2014, William Morrow
Stars: ★★★★★
Review also posted at: Slapdash & Sundry
This was my second read of this book, having read it new last year when it came out, and again now in preparation for finally reading the final book of the trilogy, which has been out for a few months now. I've put it off, being too sad that it will be over to pick it up. But it's time...
Yet again, Rollins and Cantrell do not disappoint. Ripping some of their major players right out of history and slapping them onto their pages, they bring a life and depth of character to each of the heroes and villains of their story.
This book deals with innocence, sacrifice, and choice. It's also an amazing testament to the power of two creative minds coming together to share a story with the world... one that demands to be read.
Pick up this series. It's incredible.
Published 2014, William Morrow
Stars: ★★★★★
Review also posted at: Slapdash & Sundry
This was my second read of this book, having read it new last year when it came out, and again now in preparation for finally reading the final book of the trilogy, which has been out for a few months now. I've put it off, being too sad that it will be over to pick it up. But it's time...
Yet again, Rollins and Cantrell do not disappoint. Ripping some of their major players right out of history and slapping them onto their pages, they bring a life and depth of character to each of the heroes and villains of their story.
This book deals with innocence, sacrifice, and choice. It's also an amazing testament to the power of two creative minds coming together to share a story with the world... one that demands to be read.
Pick up this series. It's incredible.
April 3, 2020
After reading The Blood Gospel, I was curious to see what the second book in the series would bring. After reading Innocent Blood, I’m happy to say I enjoyed this second book more.
Although I enjoyed the first, I found it dragged in some places. With Innocent Blood, things were constantly happening throughout. We continue the story from the first book, with more elements introduced. There are some expected elements, along with plenty of twists to keep you hooked. Add in the details of what is to come in the third book, and this is sure to have you powering through it in no time at all.
Without a doubt, a great addition to the series.
Although I enjoyed the first, I found it dragged in some places. With Innocent Blood, things were constantly happening throughout. We continue the story from the first book, with more elements introduced. There are some expected elements, along with plenty of twists to keep you hooked. Add in the details of what is to come in the third book, and this is sure to have you powering through it in no time at all.
Without a doubt, a great addition to the series.
February 10, 2017
This is the second book in The Order of the Sanguines series. Once again I am more than happy with the Rollins/Cantrell collaboration. This was a vampire series that Rollins wanted to write and it's definitely done his way. In this series, "vampires" are referred to as strigoi and yes they drink blood but that's not what this story is about really. There are also sanguinists, who have been cursed as strigoi but have been recruited and have taken a vow to spend their lives as warriors of the Catholic Church who, in turn, battle the strigoi. But again, that just lays the foundation for the story. The story is more about stopping a prophecy that will bring about Armageddon. And of course it's done in true Rollins style with prophecy, mystery and adventure .......all the makings of a book that keeps me wanting to turn the page to read more. So good!
December 10, 2013
I won this book from Goodreads.
James Rollins is on my list of favorite authors, so I read everything he writes. I love his Sigma series with the mix of history. That said, this series is different. I don't usually read vampire books, but since the series was by James Rollins I read Blood Gospel and enjoyed it. So of course I had to continue with the series which is a mix of history and supernatural. I just had to get past the vampire part, which is not at all like the Twilight Series.
Great book, really enjoyed it.
James Rollins is on my list of favorite authors, so I read everything he writes. I love his Sigma series with the mix of history. That said, this series is different. I don't usually read vampire books, but since the series was by James Rollins I read Blood Gospel and enjoyed it. So of course I had to continue with the series which is a mix of history and supernatural. I just had to get past the vampire part, which is not at all like the Twilight Series.
Great book, really enjoyed it.
January 3, 2014
While vampires in the Vatican are not theologically sound, they are a heck of a lot of fun. I'm really enjoying this series, which blends a lot of elements into flaming Winnebago of action and thrills. One of the strengths of this book is the complexity of the characters, which neatly illustrates the way our beliefs can sometimes complicate our decision-making process. It's not deep, but it's a lot of fun.
May 25, 2019
I'm loving the Sanguine series. A perfect blend of myth, legend and action adventure. Innocent Blood sees Erin, Jordan & Rhun seek the first Angel, opposed by the Betrayer himself. A fantasy thriller that ends on Christmas Day with the promise of darkness to come. Delicious.
October 20, 2017
Mais um volume prazeroso explodido e já vou para o 3º volume desta triologia "Os Sanguinistas".
February 12, 2015
*Genre* Fantasy, Thriller, Paranormal, Horror
*Rating* 3.5-4
*My Thoughts*
Innocent Blood is the second installment of The Order of the Sanguines. Seeing as I already have the final installment called Blood Infernal ready to go thanks to the publisher, I figured I might want to go back and read Innocent Blood first. Kind of silly skipping over books don't you think? That way I can jog my memory into remembering why I should care about these characters, or the different variations of vampires, or the fact that this Sanguine sect abides by Christ's teachings and doesn't drink blood from humans even though they're strigoi.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Recvd 11/19/2013 via Edelweiss* Published: December 10th 2013 by William Morrow
*Rating* 3.5-4
*My Thoughts*
Innocent Blood is the second installment of The Order of the Sanguines. Seeing as I already have the final installment called Blood Infernal ready to go thanks to the publisher, I figured I might want to go back and read Innocent Blood first. Kind of silly skipping over books don't you think? That way I can jog my memory into remembering why I should care about these characters, or the different variations of vampires, or the fact that this Sanguine sect abides by Christ's teachings and doesn't drink blood from humans even though they're strigoi.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Recvd 11/19/2013 via Edelweiss* Published: December 10th 2013 by William Morrow
December 27, 2017
Tons of action, always someone being kidnapped, chases by unholy creations or strange experiments being done on young girls. Never a dull moment it has a little bit of everything.
September 16, 2022
I am enthralled with this series and can't wait to read the next book. The story basis is beyond my wildest dreams and I am lovin' it!
October 28, 2014
Book two of the “Order of the Sanguines” Series follows shortly after the thrilling events of the first book, The Blood Gospel, and it continues the rich context of that first novel. Any time I read a second novel in a series it is always with a little trepidation because I worry, especially when the first novel is so filled with original concepts. How does an author(s) bottle that lightning a second time and ensure it continues for a third book and so on? So many times it just doesn’t and a second book, just like a movie sequel, falls flat.
Not so with this series as everything is turned up a notch or two. The action is practically non-stop with another crisis around every corner. And yet, somehow, the authors manage to expose the reader to their characters’ true natures and we really get to know them and care what happens to them. That, for me, is one of the key elements for a good novel, no matter what the genre. This series is a combination of known history, supernatural myth, religious fervor, and Indiana Jones style action plotting. It’s like watching a really good action-packed, intrigue-filled movie. Apocalyptic prophecy…supernatural intrigue…a religious political power struggle of the highest order…and even a bit of romance? What’s not to love?
What we think we know from the first book, like the identities of the Knight of Christ as well as the Warrior of Man and the Woman of Learning may not be accurate and a large part of the plot hinges on the quest to determine who has what role. And we have a new role to determine…the First Angel. We also get to experience several intriguing new characters that are woven into the mix. Two of history’s most intriguing characters, Rasputin and Judas Iscariot, make their debuts. At stake is the potential for the launch of the no-kidding Armageddon. And while this book’s story has a satisfying conclusion, the final segment does a great job in setting up a third book in the series.
One more mark of a really good thriller novel that appeals to me: I love it when the good guys aren’t always good and the bad guys aren’t always bad. Having gray characters that don’t always make the right choices or the wrong ones, is just good story telling. The conflict and tension that builds is worth the price of admission all by itself.
Travel from California to Italy to Egypt and hold on for the ride on this one. You’ll be glad you did.
Not so with this series as everything is turned up a notch or two. The action is practically non-stop with another crisis around every corner. And yet, somehow, the authors manage to expose the reader to their characters’ true natures and we really get to know them and care what happens to them. That, for me, is one of the key elements for a good novel, no matter what the genre. This series is a combination of known history, supernatural myth, religious fervor, and Indiana Jones style action plotting. It’s like watching a really good action-packed, intrigue-filled movie. Apocalyptic prophecy…supernatural intrigue…a religious political power struggle of the highest order…and even a bit of romance? What’s not to love?
What we think we know from the first book, like the identities of the Knight of Christ as well as the Warrior of Man and the Woman of Learning may not be accurate and a large part of the plot hinges on the quest to determine who has what role. And we have a new role to determine…the First Angel. We also get to experience several intriguing new characters that are woven into the mix. Two of history’s most intriguing characters, Rasputin and Judas Iscariot, make their debuts. At stake is the potential for the launch of the no-kidding Armageddon. And while this book’s story has a satisfying conclusion, the final segment does a great job in setting up a third book in the series.
One more mark of a really good thriller novel that appeals to me: I love it when the good guys aren’t always good and the bad guys aren’t always bad. Having gray characters that don’t always make the right choices or the wrong ones, is just good story telling. The conflict and tension that builds is worth the price of admission all by itself.
Travel from California to Italy to Egypt and hold on for the ride on this one. You’ll be glad you did.
January 11, 2014
Thoroughly enjoyed this second installment in the Order of the Sanguines series. While some of the characters are familiar from the Bible, the premise is totally unreal, but it is fiction after all. The action picks up at heart pounding pace shortly after the conclusion of the first book, The Blood Gospel, and continues to another hint of what's next. Meanwhile, good battles evil, some wrongs are righted, some win and some lose, second chances are taken or lost, comeuppances are had, and the archetypal story continues in very entertaining fashion.
And did I mention there are vampires? Evil strigoi and good (mostly) Sanguine priests. Yes, priests, an order established by Christ himself, beginning with Lazarus, who drink consecrated wine--the blood of Christ--rather than human blood. These guys are hard core. When they do drink their wine, it brings on visions of their past sins for penance.
And did I mention there are vampires? Evil strigoi and good (mostly) Sanguine priests. Yes, priests, an order established by Christ himself, beginning with Lazarus, who drink consecrated wine--the blood of Christ--rather than human blood. These guys are hard core. When they do drink their wine, it brings on visions of their past sins for penance.
March 25, 2014
Too much fighting, too much religion (funny how they often go hand in hand) and too many characters with less than defined roles to make this novel more than a fair read at best. 4 of 10 stars
May 31, 2014
A little drawn out with the action not happening mid way. Still enjoyable story I think the romance can be left out though
December 30, 2017
Classic and some perhaps less known elements of Christianity + the same related to vampires + insane creativity and writing talent + unknown substance I'd like to get my hands on, and the result is this book. Godamn vampiresuck is it good.
It's action movie in your head, but there's enough metaphysics even for the most uncorpuscular un's. Like, was Juda a sinner or not, if his "sin" lead to forgiveness of all the sins? Anyway, I'm kind of easier on myself these days.
It's action movie in your head, but there's enough metaphysics even for the most uncorpuscular un's. Like, was Juda a sinner or not, if his "sin" lead to forgiveness of all the sins? Anyway, I'm kind of easier on myself these days.
January 3, 2018
Even tho I read these out of sequence it was an awesome series. This one (second) was great with more action than the first but all 3 are worth the read. Catholic Church, archaeologist and soldier take on the world.
January 16, 2014
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway. When I entered the giveaway, I really had no idea of what the book was about but because James Rollins is one of my favorite authors, I could not resist entering to win a copy. I have enjoyed the Sigma Series and have come to appreciate the writing talent of Mr. Rollins.
Innocent Blood is the second book in a new series. This series has been co-authored by Rebecca Cantrell. I did not read the first book, Blood Gospel, so I was unfamiliar with the story of Innocent Blood and had I realized it was book two, I would have read Blood Gospel prior to reading this book.
Innocent Blood gave a good introduction to some of the events of the prior book so it was relatively easy to start with book two and move forward. The story follows Erin Granger, an archaeologist and Jordan Stone, a military officer as they encounter "fallout" from their adventures in book one. They rejoin forces with members of the Sanguine order, a secret order associated with the Vatican in an attempt to stop Armageddon. Along the way you have prophecy, angels, immortals, strigoi, and other things of antiquity.
The book takes place in a time frame of about two days. Trust me when I say there is a great deal of action that happens during that time. Rollins and Cantrell keep the action flowing and the book moves at a fast pace. The authors do a good job with their character development and are able to develop depth and complexity in the cast of characters.
When I first began reading the book, because of my lack of knowledge about the story, I was disappointed with the overall subject. I just wasn't prepared or interested in reading a book that dealt so much with some of the subject matter (the overall good versus evil, supernatural beings, vampires, etc.), but the writing hooked me and I couldn't stop. I found myself heading to the dictionary to find out what a word meant because there were many things I was unfamiliar with in this story. At the end of the day, despite my initial reluctance, I really enjoyed the book. I can't sure for sure that I will read the next book in this series, but then again, I just might.
Innocent Blood is the second book in a new series. This series has been co-authored by Rebecca Cantrell. I did not read the first book, Blood Gospel, so I was unfamiliar with the story of Innocent Blood and had I realized it was book two, I would have read Blood Gospel prior to reading this book.
Innocent Blood gave a good introduction to some of the events of the prior book so it was relatively easy to start with book two and move forward. The story follows Erin Granger, an archaeologist and Jordan Stone, a military officer as they encounter "fallout" from their adventures in book one. They rejoin forces with members of the Sanguine order, a secret order associated with the Vatican in an attempt to stop Armageddon. Along the way you have prophecy, angels, immortals, strigoi, and other things of antiquity.
The book takes place in a time frame of about two days. Trust me when I say there is a great deal of action that happens during that time. Rollins and Cantrell keep the action flowing and the book moves at a fast pace. The authors do a good job with their character development and are able to develop depth and complexity in the cast of characters.
When I first began reading the book, because of my lack of knowledge about the story, I was disappointed with the overall subject. I just wasn't prepared or interested in reading a book that dealt so much with some of the subject matter (the overall good versus evil, supernatural beings, vampires, etc.), but the writing hooked me and I couldn't stop. I found myself heading to the dictionary to find out what a word meant because there were many things I was unfamiliar with in this story. At the end of the day, despite my initial reluctance, I really enjoyed the book. I can't sure for sure that I will read the next book in this series, but then again, I just might.
December 6, 2013
Received this book free from Firstreads. This is my honest review--
INNOCENT BLOOD takes off where BLOOD ORDER ended in the Order of the Sanguine series. These authors have created a world of good and evil mixing science, history, religion and myth. The Sanguines are a vampire-like order who have repented from drinking victims blood, by drinking the sanctified blood of Christ. They fight against evil forces led by the unrepentant vampire creatures and immortal beings trying to end the world. In BLOOD ORDER, the mythical book written by Christ that can supposedly stay the end of the world, has been found. Now the "First Angel" must be found .
Prophesies say the a Woman of Knowledge, a Knight of Christ and a Warrior of Man must continue this quest together. These characters came together in the first book and survived assaults and tribulations to find the Book, but it has only blank pages until they can get the "First Angel". Including real historical characters and Catholic Biblical writings and myth, adds real interest and intrigue to the fast passed story of evil and repentance. Even though I'm not much into vampires and such normally, the fanciful characters mixing with real humans allows for a level of suspense and intrigue that adds immensely to quality of the book.
Though it is not really necessary to read the first book in this series, I highly recommend reading BLOOD ORDER before reading INNOCENT BLOOD. That way, you not only get the back story, but you can really get involved in the mystery and adventure of this whole series, which is telling of the fighting of man and myth to end the world for good or evil!
INNOCENT BLOOD takes off where BLOOD ORDER ended in the Order of the Sanguine series. These authors have created a world of good and evil mixing science, history, religion and myth. The Sanguines are a vampire-like order who have repented from drinking victims blood, by drinking the sanctified blood of Christ. They fight against evil forces led by the unrepentant vampire creatures and immortal beings trying to end the world. In BLOOD ORDER, the mythical book written by Christ that can supposedly stay the end of the world, has been found. Now the "First Angel" must be found .
Prophesies say the a Woman of Knowledge, a Knight of Christ and a Warrior of Man must continue this quest together. These characters came together in the first book and survived assaults and tribulations to find the Book, but it has only blank pages until they can get the "First Angel". Including real historical characters and Catholic Biblical writings and myth, adds real interest and intrigue to the fast passed story of evil and repentance. Even though I'm not much into vampires and such normally, the fanciful characters mixing with real humans allows for a level of suspense and intrigue that adds immensely to quality of the book.
Though it is not really necessary to read the first book in this series, I highly recommend reading BLOOD ORDER before reading INNOCENT BLOOD. That way, you not only get the back story, but you can really get involved in the mystery and adventure of this whole series, which is telling of the fighting of man and myth to end the world for good or evil!
November 15, 2020
Este é o segundo livro da trilogia Os Sanguinistas e, para mim, foi ainda melhor do que o primeiro.
Meses após os acontecimentos de Evangelho de Sangue, o nosso trio - Erin, Jordan e Rhun - voltam-se a juntar, desta vez para tentarem descobrir e proteger o jovem sobrevivente e que poderá ser o Primeiro Anjo. E desta vez, vamos ter dois novos elementos no grupo, mais um sanguinista - Christian - e, nada mais, nada menos, do que Elizabeta Bathory, a Condessa Sanguinária. E o que eu gostei destas duas novas personagens! Trouxeram uma nova dinâmica à narrativa, e julgo, terão ainda mais para nos dar.
Uma vez mais, temos uma narrativa cheia de acção, sempre com algo a acontecer, o que já é uma característica dos livros de James Rollins. E adorei esta mistura de estilos/géneros, de religião e Jesus Cristo onde mitos sobrenaturais como vampiros e seres imortais. Como não adorar? Temos intrigas, traições, elementos sobrenaturais, referências bíblicas e até profecias apocalíticas, numa luta entre o Bem e o Mal.
Extremamente curiosa para pegar no terceiro e último livro da trilogia!
Vejam também a opinião em vídeo aqui
Meses após os acontecimentos de Evangelho de Sangue, o nosso trio - Erin, Jordan e Rhun - voltam-se a juntar, desta vez para tentarem descobrir e proteger o jovem sobrevivente e que poderá ser o Primeiro Anjo. E desta vez, vamos ter dois novos elementos no grupo, mais um sanguinista - Christian - e, nada mais, nada menos, do que Elizabeta Bathory, a Condessa Sanguinária. E o que eu gostei destas duas novas personagens! Trouxeram uma nova dinâmica à narrativa, e julgo, terão ainda mais para nos dar.
Uma vez mais, temos uma narrativa cheia de acção, sempre com algo a acontecer, o que já é uma característica dos livros de James Rollins. E adorei esta mistura de estilos/géneros, de religião e Jesus Cristo onde mitos sobrenaturais como vampiros e seres imortais. Como não adorar? Temos intrigas, traições, elementos sobrenaturais, referências bíblicas e até profecias apocalíticas, numa luta entre o Bem e o Mal.
Extremamente curiosa para pegar no terceiro e último livro da trilogia!
Vejam também a opinião em vídeo aqui
December 26, 2013
I picked up the first book at the airport during an unexpected and long delay. I am so glad I did. The first book was pretty suspenseful and fun. I couldnt put it down and was excited that the second book was recently released. "Innocent Blood" proved to be just as much of a page turner.
This series is a bit like Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code in mixing religion and mythology into an action packed thriller but adds quite a bit of the supernatural.
I like the way the authors fleshed out the characters and showing the gray. Everyone had their demons and everyone had their reasons. No one was purely good and no one was purely evil either.
The action was great! I loved it. The suspense was killing me the entire time, and the most of the twists surprised me. I definitely recommend it for those who like thrillers, the supernatural, and action. This book has all of it in abundance!
This series is a bit like Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code in mixing religion and mythology into an action packed thriller but adds quite a bit of the supernatural.
I like the way the authors fleshed out the characters and showing the gray. Everyone had their demons and everyone had their reasons. No one was purely good and no one was purely evil either.
The action was great! I loved it. The suspense was killing me the entire time, and the most of the twists surprised me. I definitely recommend it for those who like thrillers, the supernatural, and action. This book has all of it in abundance!
April 1, 2017
am loving it.. mixture of everything.. love,fantast,strigoi aka vampires etc
January 27, 2019
bring it on
p204: obeying some silent signal, the moths lifted around them, ascending high, but remaining a threat above.
p204: the butterflies carried some form of venom.
p204: obeying some silent signal, the moths lifted around them, ascending high, but remaining a threat above.
p204: the butterflies carried some form of venom.
November 22, 2017
Another great mystery solved. The ideas created here about Christ are intriguing and makes me wonder. I especially loved the idea about evil and good men doing nothing. People choosing to do the right thing knowing that they could die are the heroes of our world and in this book. A surprising hero was Elizabeth, which is a wonderful change. I loved seeing her heart open up. She may not deserve peace, but she still has some good left in her.
Sounds like the trio has one more mission and probably the hardest one yet.
Sounds like the trio has one more mission and probably the hardest one yet.
March 16, 2025
Good and Evil, total chaos as Erin, Jordan and Ruhn follow crumbs to solve a mystery that will save humankind. Colorful and fantastical tales of the past merge and shatter the present. The pages filled with scenes that feel like the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch.
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