5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sure To Provoke Many A Heated Discussion..., May 10 2010
By Apex Reviews - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: And the Beat Goes on (Hardcover)
(Official Apex Reviews Rating: 4.5 Stars)
When archaeologist Mark Graham unearths the remains of a pterodactyl at a dig site in the mountains of Zimbabwe, his discovery isn't all that remarkable - that is, until he sees the remains of gigantic human bones buried beside it. Suddenly, speculation begins to mount about the true nature of the fossils, with most opinions pointing to a mythical ancient race of half-god, half-men known as the Nephilim. However, as he wends his way through the ensuing web of deception, sabotage, and betrayal, Mark struggles to preserve not only his momentous discovery - but also his very life..
Cleverly crafted by author Tracy Krauss, And The Beat Goes On is quite the satisfying read. Ostensibly a mystery/suspense thriller, Krauss' engaging narrative is more a subtle commentary on the fundamental tenets of Creationism; however, rather than coming off as preachy or pedantic, Krauss provides the reader with solid facts and historical evidence that anyone will find it difficult to ignore - regardless of your personal belief system. As such, Krauss successfully engages the imagination while simultaneously provoking higher thought, a feat difficult for even the most seasoned writers to achieve.
Enlightening and entertaining, And The Beat Goes On is sure to provoke many a heated discussion throughout the faith community and beyond. An enjoyable, recommended read.
Josee Morgan
Apex Reviews
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
And the Beat Goes On..., Oct 23 2010
By Jan Marie - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: And the Beat Goes on (Hardcover)
If you enjoy a book with lots of intrigue, hidden agendas, mystery, deceit, betrayal, and a bit of romance thrown in for good measure, then you will enjoy And the Beat Goes On by Tracy Krauss. Tracy told me that the book is officially categorized as "Romantic Suspense" but I felt that other elements of mystery and suspense were predominant and the romance was not the main element of the story.
The book begins in an ancient time in the heart of Africa in the area that is now known as Zimbabwe. Tracy certainly knows how to grab her reader and draws them in with her very first words. In her prologue, she portrays the enactment of a pagan ritual in extremely vivid detail and such gruesome acts of violence and depravity are committed that I felt unclean after reading it and felt the need to purify my mind.
She immediately jumps from this scene to the present day where Canadian-born archaeologist Mark Graham has uncovered artifacts which are the remains of the ancient civilization and proof of the existence of the mythical race of the Nephilim. His find is so startling and of such import to the scientific community that Mark is guaranteed a place in the annals of history for his discovery. Unfortunately for him, his find also places him at odds with members of governments, political factions, and even his fellow scientists. This discovery causes Mark and some of his crew to begin to rethink their stance on creation and other important Biblical events.
When Mark begins to document some of his data, the government of Zimbabwe steps in to take control of the site and suddenly Mark is not only desperately trying to salvage his research and his reputation, he is also fleeing for his life. Who is it that could possibly be so threatened by Mark's discovery that they want him dead? Who is it that will benefit from Mark's death? Tracy keeps the reader guessing throughout the book as to the answer to these questions. It is astonishing to discover the great lengths that scientists and politicians will go to in order to keep the Truth from being revealed.
Thus begins the chase and the race for Mark to reveal the results of his excavation before he is either arrested or killed. Through it all, God is dealing with Mark and showing him the truth about the reality of God's word; Mark is slowly being drawn back to a place with God that he had left behind years ago.
This book is a very well-written and suspense-filled tale and contains just enough factual material to make a plausible story; a story that will cause some people to think again about the various theories that are espoused in order to discredit the facts about the creation.
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
And The Beat Goes On, Oct 6 2010
By J. Thompson "Janet's Treasures, a little of e... - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: And the Beat Goes on (Hardcover)
Here is the back cover blurb:
Canadian born archeologist Mark Graham unearths a remarkable discovery while at a dig in the mountains of Zimbabwe - pterodactyl remains and giant human bones buried together. Speculation leads to the possible existence of a mythical race known as `Nephilim', a pre-flood people alleged to have descended from both gods and men.
But skepticism and sabotage delay Mark and his team as the dig site is compromised, putting their discovery - as well as his very life - in grave danger. Deceived and framed by trusted friends and colleagues, Mark struggles to safeguard his findings and protect his reputation in order to unearth the mystery behind the Nephilim.
As an archeologist, Mark Graham has spent his professional life trying to make what he learned growing up in a Christian family "jive" with what he knows as a scientist. On this latest dig, evidence is being discovered that just might bring him back to the truth.
The romance aspect of this book is a little edgy. Mark and Laura, a fellow archeologist, spend some their off time "together". Nothing too descriptive, thank you Tracy! When Mark goes back home to his parents for a visit, he sees an old family friend who has suddenly "grown up". There is an attraction there but that is all I'm going to say. Read the book to find out what happens!
Mark has many colleagues that have their own agendas. Who can he trust? Who is really his friend? Answers you will only get when you read this awesome book! Tracy has given us very defined characters and a well developed plot. I was surprised several times throughout the book trying to guess who was doing what. That is the kind of stories I love. The type that keep you guessing, at least most of the way through! If you can figure it out in the first two chapters, why finish it right?
I loved this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good romantic suspense.