The Rowan

By: Davis Bunn

Narrated by: Jennifer O'Donnell

A rowan tree with mysterious and unique powers is extending its grip over humanity, and investigative writer Valentina Garnier is caught up in a battle between supernatural forces and the federal government.

Pulitzer Prize–winning investigative writer Valentina Garnier loves a good story, so when she learns that CIA director Agnes Pendalon wants her to travel to Kunashir Island in Russia’s easternmost province, she jumps at the chance. Top scientists, political aides, CIA agents and even the vice president’s daughter have all made mysterious trips to the island in recent weeks. Could it be coincidence, or is something more alarming at play?

When Val arrives in Kunashir, she’s mesmerized by a magical rowan tree and its leaves that turn to golden threads, encircling the visitors. Something incredible and transformational is happening in front her … With the CIA determined to hunt down this unknown force and everyone affected by the rowan, is a new battle for the future of humanity about to commence?

©2023 Davis Bunn (P)2023 Recorded Books

Parallels to the conflicts of today's physical and spiritual perspectives.

I have read Davis Bunn's books for years. Some have taken me a little longer in the reading to be able to see the collection of characters and the stage from which their story will unfold than others, however this one seems to start off running.
When I have finished whatever story I had started, I have never been disappointed. I read (now listen to) Bunn's stories when I am ready think about the thoughts and directions the characters are taking, especially when they realize rhey must change their perspective. This to me makes for a far richer story rather than just entertainment.
Since I am at a point, in my life, when listening is more necessary than actually reading, I would have appreciated some way to know which character or setting the perspective of the chapter was set as it started. However, going back to restart the chapter is quite easily accomplished with Audible books.
I will continue to seek out Davis Bunn's books for my personal enjoyment.

The coverart is pretty

I have liked other Bunn books but this one was confusing for me. I had to relisten to many chapters thinking I must have missed something only to find out..Nope! A whole bunch of "word salad" that didnt add value. I didnt know that this was going to be a series so when it ends as abruptly as it does I felt like I had just wasted my time. Again I relistened to the last few chapters just in case I missed something but Nope! I have read other series books that closing made me wanting more. This one left me with....Wait! Was that the End?? What?? I guess I had the wrong expectation. Dont feel like I'll read the next one.

Took me right into the supernatural!

I was surprised to read so many bad reviews. I absolutely loved this book! I just wish the second one was already available in Audible.

As I listened to the story, my mind kept going to the analogy of the tree and how it fits our Christian life, with Jesus being the vine and us being the branches and the power of the Holy Spirit living inside us, not just individually but corporately. I believe the power living inside us is much greater than what we have imagined and that it only takes faith to unlock it. I have experienced this power when going to prayer with friends. Yet, the enemy of our souls is still out to get us any way he can, just like the true believers in the story have a very real enemy. In the end, the enemy cannot completely overtake us because we are connected to the Vine (Tree).

The analogy of the story is powerful for certain readers. If you need to have the analogy spelled out for you, then this isn't the book for you, but if you are a reader of fantasy, you may love it like I did.

COMPLETE GARBAGE

I have normally enjoyed Davis Bunn, but in this case I’m seriously reconsidering that. This is absolutely the most ridiculous piece of garbage he’s yet done. The drama is way over the top. The narrator was incompetent at best complete with pregnant pauses designed to try and increase the drama and failing miserably. It sounded extremely comedic and annoying. I don’t think the author put one moment of research into any word of this. As incompetent as our government is, I refuse to believe that the great halls of power would react in such manners or attempt such juvenile conversation. It’s like nobody actually knows what to do so they just fill in the blanks with meaningless nonsense like “do what needs to be done”. The story goes absolutely nowhere and ends with absolutely nothing happening. It has no point whatsoever!
AVOID THIS NONSENSE!!!