For centuries, an unimaginable secret lay hidden in a forbidden book. This is a secret that could ignite global chaos.
EX LIBRIS hurtles the reader from Grand Cayman Island to a monastery in Prague to the back rooms of the Louvre in Paris. At every turn, brutal forces threaten. But the greatest peril is to civilization as we know it.
Dan Lovel, a former Diplomatic Security Agent of Roma (Gypsy) heritage, agrees to steal several books from a monastery in Prague to help identify art expropriated by Napoleon. But Dan and partner, Martine, discover that one of the books contains staggering revelations that could threaten global mayhem and even nuclear war. Fighting to prevent this, Dan and Martine become ensnared in a brutal web of conspiracy and murder, and they face soul-rending choices. All the while, the world teeters on the edge of disaster.
EX LIBRIS has been awarded a 1st PLACE IN FICTION as well as a GOLD MEDAL FOR THRILLERS by the Global Book Awards. It also has been named an ERIC HOFFER FINALIST, has been awarded a B.R.A.G. MEDALLION and was RECOMMENDED by the US Review of Books.
Readers say they love the "breathtaking action " and the characters - from Dan, whose Gypsy background proves vital, to Paulette the blind painter, to Jade the female assassin who has never failed.
READER COMMENTS:
"I can't remember the last time I was so thoroughly engrossed." -AF, 3/18/2020
"Could hardly put it down to eat." -Karl, 1/10/2022
"Immensely enjoyed getting tugged into Dan Lovel's world." -Amy Williams, 3/19/2020
Assessment:
Plot: Oehler’s book is a fast-paced, thoroughly plotted espionage thriller. The author is skilled at building tension and conflict between characters, and readers will be unable to put the book down until the final page.
Prose/Style: Oehler’s prose is strong, clear, and direct. Each character has a distinct and inviting voice. Protagonists Dan Lovel and Martine Desmarais engage in delightful, witty banter that readers will enjoy.
Originality: Given that the novel revolves around a long-forgotten text that could cause a religious war, comparisons to The Da Vinci Code are inevitable. However, Ex Libris shines because of its stellar cast of characters and Oehler’s many twists.
Character Development: The characters of Ex Libris truly make the novel. Protagonists Dan and Martine are intelligent, strong leads with great chemistry. Secondary characters who are indispensable to the plot include Paulette, a blind painter, and Jade, an assassin for hire.
Date Submitted: May 24, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars What a terrific read!
Reviewed in the United States on September 21, 2019
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
From page 1 this book is an irresistible page turner and I recommend this book very highly. Thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are well portrayed, the plot (and sub plots) are exciting and fast paced, and the story telling is second to none. John Oehler is a wonderful writer who weaves a great yarn and this book reflects his unique storytelling. Loved, loved,loved this book! I would rate it a 10 out of 10!
5.0 out of 5 stars Well done. I cannot wait to read his next book.
Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2020
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
The request that sparks this journey sounds simple: get into a monastery, and grab a few books. What starts as a quick task turns into a fast-paced thriller that spans multiple continents. The plot combines the crucial stakes of geopolitics and religion, then pits those forces against complex, well-drawn characters with – of course – competing agendas. This one kept me guessing, and engaged. The writing is tight, the research is excellent, and the locales are painted with a vivid brush.
