I received THE BOOK OF BLOOD AND SHADOW on NetGalley for review* from Knopf Books for Young Readers. I must admit that this is not the type of book that I normally read. I have not read The DaVinci Code or any other of the books that are in that vein or genre. But, that being said, a ton of my friends and some of my favorite bloggers that I follow had raved about this book. I knew that I had to read this book, too, just because of those reviews. I’m happy to say that I’m thrilled I took the leap and read it.

THE BOOK OF BLOOD AND SHADOW by Robin Wasserman is a roller coaster of a ride wrapped up in 448 pages. Nothing is as it seems in this book. Wasserman created a story filled with fantastic creepiness and spine-tingling adventure. My heart was continuously thumping and feeling wrung out all at the same time! Nora was a fantastic, kick-butt female heroine and I would find myself cheering for her and wanting to cry for her at other times.

Eli was one of those characters that I fell in love with. I knew there was more to the story with him but I could never quite decide if it was something good or something bad until right when I was suppose to know at the end. I love it when an author writes a story that keeps me guessing and then second guessing what I think is happening. Wasserman proved herself to be a master at this. One thing I need more of: Eli. Please, please, please…Robin Wasserman. Please give us more of Eli.

While the book wraps up nicely and could end right where it is, the reader can also see where the story could continue in the future. This reader is definitely hoping for that to happen. If you love stories steeped in historical facts and mystery, this is the book for you. I have always been fascinated with secret organizations and religious sects so this book was a perfect read for me. I definitely recommend it, and it gets 4 books out of 5 from me.

*No payment was received, or is ever received, for an honest review of any books on this site.