The Expected One by Kathleen McGowan

The Expected One by Kathleen McGowan was an unexpected delight. Obviously there was something that attracted me to the book but I was worried that perhaps a zealot's point of view might outshine the rest of the book. The reason I decided to pick this book up was due to premise of presenting the empowerment of women though the emphasis of women's influence throughout history. The main character, Maureen Paschal, has built her entire career on this exact notion.

The Expected One is The Passion of the Christ meets The DaVinci Code. There are secret societies, conspiracy theories, espionage, and prophecies. Maureen is a reporter/novelist who travels to get a better sense of what she is writing about. She had decided to dig a little deeper into Mary Magdalene and as such made a trip to Jerusalem. While she is there she encounters a man who gives her a ring. This is the catalyst for said prophecy and thus the adventure Maureen is about to embark upon.

What I found so interesting about this book is that the story is sort of two-fold. I greatly enjoyed The DaVinci Code. I like a little bit of mystery, suspense, and even a smattering of conspiracy. The second piece to the story is biblical. It follows the relationship of Jesus and Mary Magdalene and the crucifixion of Jesus. It is such an interesting perspective. The biblical portion of the tale is told from Mary Magdalene's point of view; being read from a journal of sorts that she kept.

The book was rather through provoking as well; at least from my perspective. I am not a very religious person but found some of the messages inspiring. I also rather enjoyed how well thought out the characters were. The ones that would be absolute in their devotion portrayed that impeccably.

There were a couple of things that I thought looked like they might be a good plot twist, but they did not go anywhere. This book is the first in a series so maybe the thread of these plot lines will be picked back up again... If not, then those parts of the book do not really make a lot of sense to me.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it; especially if you have an affinity for religious prophecy and conspiracy.

Happy reading!!

Judi