Holy Blood, Holy Grail

I first read this about 15 years ago. It seems that Dan Brown may also have done so. The original book, and the revised edition I read several years later, put forward compelling arguments in favour of an alternative history of the established religious version propounded in canonical teaching. Altho......more

I originally approached the book with the idea that even if the "history" was wonky, it will be entertaining to read. I was sorely disappointed. It was uphill all the way, especially in the middle, when you get bogged down in all those dynasties. However, I'm giving it two stars for the chapters towa......more

Jesus was born of a virgin, raised the dead, turned water into wine, and was resurrected after his crucifixion. OK. BUT SAYING THAT HE HAD CHILDREN IS THE MOST RIDICULOUS THING IN THE WORLD! (Wink, wink, nudge, nudge) I read this book when it was first published and it's speculations have fertilized......more

This is book is a great example of academic dishonesty. The first half of the book is very well documented, and sets the reader up for the idea that the two authors are dealing with hard facts. When the conjectures and meat of the book begin though the sources stop getting cited, and assumptions are......more

Probably the oldest surviving piece of hot gossip still in circulation: Jesus had an affair with Mary Magdalene, which resulted in a child. Members of the post-Dan-Brown generation may have trouble believing this, but I hadn't heard a single rumour before I read this book. Really!......more