Destroyer of Worlds by J.F. Penn (ARKANE #8)
Read in January 2025
The ARKANE series by J.F. Penn follows Dr. Morgan Sierra and Jake Timber as they confront supernatural threats rooted in religious artifacts and historical mysteries.
Summary:
Morgan and Jake are drawn into a deadly quest centered around an artifact known as the "Destroyer of Worlds." This relic holds the power to bring about unparalleled destruction. Their mission leads them through treacherous landscapes and ancient legends as they strive to prevent a catastrophe of epic proportions.
Main Characters:
Morgan Sierra is an Oxford psychologist with a background in religion, and ARKANE agent. She's an ex-Israeli military officer who has experienced severe loss in her life.
Jake Timber is a seasoned ARKANE agent and Morgan's partner. He's South African and an ex-military officer who has experienced the loss of his entire family.
Father Ben Constanza: monk at Blackfriar's College. He used to be good friends with Morgan's mother and has been Morgan's mentor and friend as well.
Elias Marietti: the director of ARKANE. Used to work for the Vatican in hunting religious objects around the world.
Asha Kapoor: an Indian heiress. She's the main villain in the novel.
There are many others.
World-Building:
Since this is a thriller set in the modern world, there isn't much world-building. However, J. F. Penn does a fantastic job of describing the locations and setting the scene. She includes many historical details and information that make the world, and places come alive on the page.
Themes/Tropes:
- Religious and Powerful Artifacts
- Exotic Locations
- Ancient Secrets
- Religious Themes
- High Stakes
- Secret Agency
- Dark Rituals
- Human Sacrifice
- Ticking Clock
- Larger-Than-Life Threat
- Religious Extremists
Entertainment Value:
The book is fast-paced and full of historical facts. Although the pace sometimes slows down a bit, I quite enjoyed the information in this book. I also enjoyed getting to know India and its history more.
I loved the budding relationship between Morgan and Jake. But I'm getting a bit frustrated with it as well. There is obvious attraction and tension between them that neither wants to admit or talk about. I do wonder if they ever get together!
There was a lot at stake in this book, and it was also personal to Morgan and Jake. I loved the suspense! It was a bit brutal, and for some people, maybe too much so.
As a fan of Dan Brown, I was happy to find an indie author with a similar writing style and plot. I devoured this book in less than a day!
Cover Art:
I think the cover art is fine, and befitting a thriller.
Would I read this book again?
Yes, I would. I'm already working my way through this series!
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