Helpful Score: 4
Don't be put off by the title--this book isn't an attack on either Darwin or the theory of evolution. Instead, it's a historical mystery in the tradition of A. S. Byatt's "Possession." In one narrative thread, we gradually learn what happened during the Beagle's voyage; in the other, we meet two modern scholars trying to unearth that story through documents. The novel has appealing characters and a lot of emotional force.
Helpful Score: 3
A really interesting novel that traces Darwin's journey, his relationships with other members of the expedition, and a huge secret that is being kept under wraps. A very good read, with flashbacks to the journey as one person finally pieces together the puzzle. Almost like a period mystery novel.
Obviously playing on The DaVinci Code but actually more interesting than it!
Helpful Score: 1
This is a fun little novel that starts out simple, then spirals into intrigue by the end. The action is a little uneven - there's a stretch in the middle that isn't all that exciting and then at least two books' worth of excitement is crammed into the last small section - but there's plenty there.
Story was a little slow in the beginning but very facinating overall. The author shares his books with his family and has them critique them, so he has two instances of mention of sex, but no intimate details. The author blends past and present very well, and keeps the reader wondering what will be found out next. I give it 4 stars out of 5.
Loved the book. Didn't think it was a little slow in parts. Enjoyed both stories.Felt like it was a real discovery when I was listening to it,even though I know it was fiction.
