Sign of the Cross (Payne & Jones) Mass Market Paperback – September 26, 2006

Sign of the Cross  Fast paced which helped keep my attention. The characters Payne and Jones are balanced with good and bad traits. Chris Kuneski's characters Payne and Jones have a well developed sense of humor which makes the story fun to read. The major flaw of SIGN OF THE CROSS is the characterization and dialogue. There are too many characters in this book, and Kuzneski keeps switching the perspective from character to character. As a result, no single character is fully fleshed out, and many characters comes across as little more than cardboard cutouts that rush from one action scene to another. Some of the supporting characters seem like cartoon characters kids would watch on TV. Also, much of the dialogue in this novel is rather stilted. Overall, I was impressed enough with the plot of this novel to recommend it. I think Kuzneski has exceptional plotting and research skills, but he needs to work more on his dialogue and characterization. If he does that, he could become the next Dan Brown or Steve Berry.

The writing is cheesy. It seems like the author was writing a script. What I mean by that is there are places where the author adds in a info that in a movie would be seen. I read books to stimulate my imagination, not be spoon feed every feeling or action as if its the direction given between lines of a script. That being said, the story is very good. The idea behind has been done but not in this way. He took an idea that has been written about and made it seem original.

I’m not a religious person so I was not real enthused about reading this book, but after reading ‘The Plantation’, previous book to this one, I enjoyed the author so much I decided to give this book a try and loved it and it really made me think. I like that. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes action with reality.

Ever since I read the Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown I have been trying to find books that are somewhat like it. I actually found this book while looking through a bookstore and read the reviews on it. I was amazed that there were reviews from Steve Berry (who is currently my favorite writer), and James Rollins (2nd favorite) wrote some great reviews on it, so I decided what the hell I would try it out.Well I was not disappointed at all. Wow!! I have to say I liked it better than the Da Vinci Code. Now I know a lot of people might disagree with me but the way it is written was fantastic. It kept me wanting to keep reading it and not put it down. And the way that he left little hints about what was going to happen at the end of some of the chapters, I loved it. Loved the characters and really didn't want the book to end. Great contraversial subject just loved it. There's not much more I c an say but if you like Steve Berry, Dan Brown, or James Rollins, try this book. You won't be disappointed!!!

I was not quite as captivated by this particular adventure, as it did not involve quite as many trips to interesting locations. Having done a bit of European travel, some of the other stories have been of greater appeal to me. However, Kuzneski's story-telling is wonderful! His technique of moving from events in one location to those in another keeps the interest rate at a very high level, but did not seem to be called for as much in this story. Nevertheless, he is the most exciting writer that I have found in a number of years. Let's encourage him to keep finding subjects to completely captivate us!

I do realize that Chris Kuzneski is not a "new" author, but is new to me. I'm thrilled to be adding him to my list of favorite authors. After reading "Plantation" (what a totally unique plot), I quickly went on to "Sign of the Cross". I am impressed again by the unique plot, the wonderful characters and the humor that has been added even in dire situations. I look forward to reading other "Payne & Jones" novels.

Oh, wow! A book you DEFINITELY need to read to the very end. Just when my beliefs were brought into question...BAM!...the end verified them. Looking forward to adventure with Payne and Jones in the future...maybe Maria, too?

For those willing to explore their own beliefs and how they came to be... I kept searching my own Sunday school lesson of 70 years ago.

I expected better from the reviews.There were two distinct plots and story lines which only came together towards the end. I struggled to understand the point of the murder plot, and simply did not get why our heroes were selected to become involved in the biblical mystery, less why they continued their involvement after discovering they had been misled.The frequent use, at the end of chapters of phrases such as "had they only known what was to happen next" was irritating and, in my view unnecessary. I have seen it done before, Clive Cussler used it on occasion in one of his series of books. I find it childish.The book was disappointing. It is, I think the second of a series. I may try another. It may be that things will improve as the series progresses.

Another excellent read.up to date with current events yet easily mixed with historical and religious topics. Continuing characters with great storylines makes you want to read the next in series. Fast action and black humour. A page turner hard to put down

Brilliant story that is so realistic it makes you doubt your beliefs right up to the end. Its intense, gripping and had a lot of humour as well.

Brilliant.......what more is there to say!!!Loved it , can't wait to open the next Payne and Jones adventure.Thank you Chris!!

Fantastic Book The kind you cannot put down, well-written, enjoyable right up to the end, and an excellent book for reading, with a twist on every page, great, so good I have had to buy another one,