content: The quest for the Grail is one of the most fascinating subjects in all of literature. John McLaughlin's book takes it in a direction that goes beyond what Dan Brown laid out in DA VINCI CODE--from the distant past into a possible future. The G.R.A.I.L. is a healing object which gives eternal life. The ageless keepers of the G.R.A.I.L influence major world events and world leaders from early in recorded history, from the Russian revolution, to the rise of Hitler and beyond. McLaughlin writes with an easy authority. And the plot moves quickly and decisively. Frankly, I thought the relationships in DA VINCI CODE were its weakest element. In G.R.A.I.L., enduring friendships hold the book together. And the protagonist, Arthur McBruce's quest to stay beneath the radar of an evil G.R.A.I.L. keeper who is chasing him through the world is both enervating and interesting. This is a well thought out book and would make for good beach reading.