The Last Cato

Summary of Matilde Asensi's Book

The Last Cato by Matilde Asensi: A Thrilling Adventure in Search of the True Cross

The Last Cato, a gripping novel by Matilde Asensi, takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with intrigue, mystery, and historical secrets. First published in 2001, this book falls under the genres of fiction, historical fiction, and thriller, offering a unique blend of Christian scholarship and adventure. Set against the backdrop of the Roman Catholic Church and its quest to protect holy relics, The Last Cato delves into the race to find the Vera Cruz, the True Cross on which Christ was crucified, and the ancient brotherhood sworn to safeguard it. Asensi's storytelling prowess shines through in this novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced plot and well-developed characters.

Characters

• Ottavia Salina: Ottavia Salina is a brilliant paleographer who is called upon by the Vatican to decipher mysterious markings found on an Ethiopian man's corpse. Her expertise and intellect play a crucial role in unraveling the secrets of the Staurofilakes, the clandestine brotherhood protecting the True Cross.
• Kaspar Glauser-Röist: A member of the Swiss Guard, Kaspar Glauser-Röist, joins forces with Ottavia Salina to investigate the markings and uncover the truth behind the ancient brotherhood. His loyalty and skills as a soldier prove invaluable as they navigate through dangerous challenges.
• Farag Boswell: Farag Boswell, a renowned archaeologist, becomes a key ally in Ottavia and Kaspar's quest to uncover the hidden mysteries surrounding the True Cross. His knowledge of ancient history and artifacts provides crucial insights into the brotherhood's connection to Dante's Divine Comedy.

Detailed Summary

In The Last Cato, readers are introduced to Dr. Ottavia Salina, a paleographer tasked by the Vatican to decipher markings on a corpse that lead her to uncover the existence of the mysterious Staurofilakes brotherhood. As Ottavia, Kaspar, and Farag delve deeper into the secrets of the brotherhood, they discover a connection to Dante's Divine Comedy and embark on a global journey to uncover the truth behind the True Cross. Along the way, they encounter challenges that test not only their faith but also their courage and determination. As they race against time to protect the holy relic from falling into the wrong hands, they must confront their own beliefs and face the ultimate test of their resolve.

Extensive Analysis

The Last Cato is a masterful blend of historical facts, religious intrigue, and thrilling adventure. Asensi deftly weaves together the worlds of Christian scholarship and fiction, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through the character of Ottavia Salina, readers are taken on a journey of discovery, unravelling ancient mysteries and uncovering the hidden truths of a secret brotherhood dedicated to protecting the True Cross. The novel's exploration of the Seven Deadly Sins and their symbolism within the brotherhood's rituals adds a layer of depth to the story, highlighting themes of sin, redemption, and faith.

As Ottavia, Kaspar, and Farag navigate through treacherous obstacles and face dangerous adversaries, the reader is drawn into a world of ancient artifacts, cryptic clues, and historical enigmas. The intricate plot twists and turns, keeping readers engrossed in the characters' quest to unravel the secrets of the Staurofilakes and safeguard the True Cross from those who seek to exploit its power for their own gain.

Overall, The Last Cato is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, thrillers, and religious mysteries. Asensi's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring the ancient world to life, captivating readers with its rich historical detail and riveting plot. For those who enjoy a blend of history, mystery, and adventure, The Last Cato is a must-read.

Final thoughts

To conclude, The Last Cato by Matilde Asensi is a thrilling adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and historical depth, this novel offers a compelling blend of mystery, suspense, and religious intrigue. If you enjoy a gripping story that delves into the secrets of the past while keeping you guessing until the very end, then The Last Cato is the perfect read for you. Be sure to pick up a copy of this captivating book or listen to the audiobook to experience the full adventure for yourself.

9780060828585 (ISBN10: 0060828587)