The Sign

By: Raymond Khoury

Narrated by: Richard Ferrone

New York Times bestselling author Raymond Khoury returns with a provocative, hard-hitting thriller ripped from the headlines and set at the intersection of science, religion, politics and history…

It appears out of nowhere in the skies above Antarctica—a blazing sphere of light that transforms into a mysterious symbol for all to see. Then, it vanishes. The world is enraptured by the event. Is the symbol man-made? Is it of extraterrestrial origin? Or is it a sign from God? The entire human race holds its breath, desperate for an answer—but will it be the one they're hoping for?

For reporter Gracie Logan, it's the story of a lifetime. And her search for the truth will lead her from an ancient monastery in the sands of Egypt to a megachurch in Texas and into a mystery that she may not survive.

For ex-con Matt Sherwood, it's a chance to redeem himself—and to find the men responsible for the death of his brother.

And for a few shady players in the corridors of power in Washington D.C., it's a chance to redefine the world—and to manipulate the relationship between religion and politics in America, for better, or for worse...©2009 Raymond Khoury; (P)2009 Penguin

Critic reviews

Praise for The Sign

“Raymond Khoury explores the concept of religion by posing the ever-present question What if? in a unique and appealing way. It’s fiercely intelligent and equally curious. Khoury casts his fictional world in a dark pall—a fitting atmosphere for his protagonists as they race both time and shadowy instincts toward a scintillating conclusion. The Sign is a rapid paced adventure that delivers equal quantities of story and lesson, neither one suffering in the process. Khoury’s background as a screenwriter shows. He is especially adept at action scenes. His expertly chosen verbs cause the scenes to leap from the page. You can literally feel the blows as they’re landed; wince as the bullets find their marks. He has an intense brand of storytelling all his own. The Sign is a prize to be savored.”—New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry

“[A] solid thriller...Unrelenting action and a suitably twisted ending.”—Publishers Weekly

“Khoury’s thrillers engage the reader’s mind, even as they move at a breakneck pace. His first two novels were first-rate adventure yarns, and so is this one...Readers who like their thrillers to have a solid intellectual component will enjoy Khoury’s books very much. Given the high quality of each of his novels, it seems fair to say that he may be around for a while.”—Booklist

“This is a thoughtful book with a powerful message and yet also a thrilling read with compelling, well-developed characters. Highly recommended.”—Library Journal

Amazing Story!

Full of surprising twists and turns. Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, I was thrown an unexpected curve. The characters were enchanting and well developed. Great audio, no problems or issues. This is a must read!

Meh

The buildup never really paid off. It was way too much build up that never matched the sign.

Very Good book would advise buying it

This is a fast paced story about possible good intentions gone bad. Although there is some political correct elements in the story it doesn't distract from the story. I would highly recommend this book as well as his prior book.

love the author, and narrator is awesome

I am a big fan of Raymond Khoury ever since I read The Last Templar about 10 years ago. he has a way of writing that makes it feel like it could really be everyday and happen. every movement of the characters is methodically decided, and flows so well. it's like watching a movie in your head. how ever the only thing I don't care for, is I believe his political views reflect in his writing, but honestly It doesn't change the great story telling, or my view of him. And I could be totally wrong. I'm still waiting for The End Game to come out on audible. the narrator is awesome, and does so well with the many characters he is presented with.

Excellent Novel

The Sign is technologically interesing and exciting. It includes an excellent commentary on politics in the US as they exist today.

Loved this book

it kept my full attention would send it to my friends looking for more like it

Great story, not so great producing…

I really liked this book. Great author, story, suspense…however, the way it’s produced drives me crazy. I don’t love the voice of the narrator but I was able to get past that. The chapters of the book are not set up as the chapters on the app. Chapter 12 on the app is chapters 56-68 or something in the book. It drives me crazy if I get lost and have to back track. Also, sometimes there is no pause between the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new chapter. I think I would recommend just reading the physical book if you can and avoid the mess of this performance.

Good adventure, but too political & anti-religion

I love Khoury's adventures, but this one seemed more of a rant against conservatives Christians masquerading as an adventure at times. It would be more believable if it wasn't based on such extreme stereotypes. It isn't as if conservatives are the only ones with moral motives for political decisions. So, while I enjoyed the dichotomy between religion and politics/power and its part in the plot, I believe it would have been better not to create the straw man that only one side has this problem and uses the pulpit for political ends. As a great adventure and interesting plot idea, I'd give it five stars. But, as a fair representation of religion and religious influences, it barely deserves three.

An interesting premise.

Would you try another book from Raymond Khoury and/or Richard Ferrone?

I think I would.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

It was interesting, but the character development of the main protagonist lacked.

Did the narration match the pace of the story?

Yes. It was suitable.

Was The Sign worth the listening time?

It was a bit too long winded for me.

Any additional comments?

The book lacked in a few areas, but had good points as well.

One of those books that makes you think Alot!

There were so many good parts. All of it written in a way that was easy to visualize. I enjoyed the ride, I appreciated the readers voice and the way he "became" each character.

I highly recommend it. If you are a bit of a truther you be sitting back thinking about the reality of this story. A lot!

But it is written in a way that any religious faith, atheist or those who are more dependant on science will enjoy it.