Book Review - The Secret Scroll

Ronald Cutler Combines Religion and Intrigue in the Middle East

Dec 8, 2008 Angie Rayfield

Start with a simple but explosive premise - what would happen if proof was found that many of the teachings of one of the world's major religions were wrong?

That's the idea behind The Secret Scroll, the first novel by Ronald Cutler. A scroll is found, a scroll that appears to be written by Jesus of Nazareth. What follows is some 300 pages of fast-paced action, including a heavy dose of intrigue and suspicion, an ancient cult, and of course, a smattering of romance.

A Scroll is Found

Events are put into motion by Josh Cohan, an American archaeologist on sabbatical in Israel. Guided by a recurring dream, he discovers a small jar containing an ancient scroll. He delays turning over the scroll to the Israeli Antiquities Authority, begins translating the scroll, and learns that, if taken at face value, the scroll is an autobiography of sorts, written by the man now known as Jesus Christ.

Once he realizes the potential significance of his find, Cohan reluctantly notifies the IAA, and negotiates a place on the committee that will attempt to authenticate the scroll. Although he believes that the world would welcome the find, he finds himself drawn deeper into a world of controversy, as the scientists debate not only whether the scroll is authentic, but the religious implications of the writings as well. What if these writings support the dogma of some sects, and not others? Or worse, what if the scroll contradicts the basic teachings of Christianity itself?

Conspiracy and Murder

If these questions weren't concern enough, Cutler adds a murderous underground society known as The Guardians. The cult is made up of religious fanatics and has been in the Holy Land for centuries, jealously guarding their own view of Christianity, and dedicated to preventing the scroll from ever seeing the light of day. And as an additional complication, Cohan falls in love with Danielle, the beautiful daughter of one of his IAA colleagues. Of course, in any good thriller, the love interest makes a prime target, and Danielle is no exception.

With those pieces in place, The Secret Scroll follows Josh and Danielle as they thread their way through betrayals, kidnappings and murder, looking for the truth behind both the scroll and The Guardians. The conspiracies are intricate and the threats plentiful, including a traitor within the IAA that must be uncovered to stop The Guardians. The final chapters become a race to expose the traitor, and save their own lives.

Cutler's book is well-researched, and he weaves a historical fact seamlessly in with accepted theories, as well as a large dose of pure speculation. The blending is skillful, and doesn't leave the reader with a sudden realization, "Oh, he made up that part." The story moves at lightening speed, sometimes almost too fast, but will catch the reader's attention from the beginning, and refuse to let go.

About Ronald Cutler

Ronald Cutler was a radio personality in the 1960s, and went on to become a radio station owner in the 1970s. Over the years, he created, produced and wrote many successful national radio shows and series. The Secret Scroll is his first novel.

The Secret Scroll by Ronald Cutler

Beaufort Books, Inc., 2008

IBSN 978-082530515-3

The copyright of the article Book Review - The Secret Scroll in Mystery/Crime Fiction is owned by Angie Rayfield. Permission to republish Book Review - The Secret Scroll in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

The Secret Scroll

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