Sign of the Cross by Chris Kuzneski

Book Summary:

Sign of the Cross by Chris Kuzneski is a globe-spanning religious conspiracy thriller starring Payne and Jones, the duo introduced in earlier works, now thrust into an even darker mystery. The novel opens with the horrifying crucifixion murders of Vatican priests—first found on a Danish shore, then replicated in Asia and Africa—each death meticulously reenacting the Passion of Christ.Meanwhile, Dr. Charles Boyd, a renowned archaeologist, uncovers a two-thousand-year-old scroll deep beneath the Catacombs of Orvieto in Italy—a discovery that threatens to upend the foundations of Christianity.Payne and Jones, wrongfully accused of past crimes and facing arrest, are offered a CIA-sanctioned deal: their charges will be dropped if they assist in finding Boyd and his assistant, Maria Pelati, before hostile forces eliminate them.he investigation takes the team across multiple continents as they confront religious fanatics, Vatican machinations, and shadowy agents—all racing to control or destroy the truth Boyd holds.Blending historical secrets, modern forensic sleuthing, high-stakes action, and conspiracies, Sign of the Cross delivers fast-paced thrills with research-based intrigue and gruesome suspense—though some critics cite heavy exposition and repetitive chapter-ending foreshadowing as detracting elements

About The Author:

Chris Kuzneski is a bestselling American author known for his action-packed thrillers that blend historical mystery, religious intrigue, and fast-paced adventure. A former English teacher and sports journalist, Kuzneski holds a degree in writing from the University of Pittsburgh. He gained international recognition with his Payne & Jones series, beginning with The Plantation and followed by hits like Sign of the Cross and Sword of God. His novels often feature globe-trotting plots, ancient secrets, and modern conspiracies, drawing comparisons to authors like Dan Brown and Clive Cussler. Kuzneski’s books have been translated into more than 20 languages and sold in over 40 countries, earning praise for their mix of sharp dialogue, historical depth, and relentless suspense. With a loyal global readership, he continues to be a prominent voice in contemporary thriller fiction.