THE ICON

Olson's debut novel begins slowly and then picks up the pace dramatically. Clearly written with THE DA VINCI CODE in mind, the story concerns Nazis and Greeks and an icon known as the Holy Mother of Katarini, which allegedly contains pieces of the blood-stained robe of Jesus. Eric Conger's reading parallels the story. At first, the listener wonders at his vocal lassitude, but he comes alive as the plot intensifies. While the conclusion is predictable, the story is entertaining, and Conger's reading, particularly during the climax, makes for a satisfying, albeit uneven, novel. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 05]