The Lost Word

Novel

with Violette Cabesos

Presentation

The Basilica of Vézelay: one of the oldest churches dedicated to Mary Magdalene, the sinner of the Gospels. In this important Christian site, Johanna, a medieval archaeologist, tries to uncover the truth about the controversial origins of the saint's cult. But the young woman's serenity is quickly shattered by a series of murders at a colleague's excavation site in Pompeii and the strange illness of her young daughter, which seems inexplicably linked to these crimes. Ready to do anything to save her, Johanna embarks on a perilous investigation, the key to which may well be one of humanity's greatest secrets: the mysterious phrase Jesus wrote in the sand at the feet of the adulterous woman, the only one he ever wrote.

Translations

German : PIPER
Spanish (Castilian): EDICIONES GRIJALBO
Polish : ALBATROS WYDAWNICTWO

What the press says about it

"A terrific historical and esoteric thriller" - Le magazine des Livres

"A fascinating historical thriller. A treasure hunt from ancient Rome, through the Middle Ages, and up to the present day." France Info

"Everything is there: the cocktail is perfect." —La Vie

"A novel brimming with religious references, where the plot twists keep the reader on the edge of their seat." L'Avenir (Belgium)

"A surprising historical-religious thriller." — L'Amour des livres

"This novel is a wonderful puzzle whose pieces fit together beautifully, sure to appeal to those passionate about history, the history of religions, and metaphysical thrillers." — Paris Normandie

"This gripping thriller skillfully interweaves different eras, locations, and characters around a mysterious document passed down by Mary Magdalene before her death." — La Procure

"This historical-religious crime novel is masterfully and eruditely crafted." — La Croix

"A scholarly treasure hunt." — Le Quotidien du médecin