The Vesuvius Isotope (The Katrina Stone Thrillers) Paperback – June 14, 2013

Utilizing the thriller format, Kristen Elise has given us an intriguing tale in "The Vesuvius Isotope" that is at once a meditation on what the ancient Romans and Egyptians knew about science and medicine and a gently scientific discussion of modern biotechnology and life sciences and the ongoing search for treatments and cures for pernicious cancers and other syndromes. Elise takes us into historic, cultural, medical, and scientific arcana likely to surprise you at every turn with how much the ancients knew about issues that often continue to vex us today. The wise and learned Cleopatra--not just the seductive queen--and the great libraries at Pompeii--not just the well-known historic story of the volcano that destroyed the city--figure prominently in this brainier-than-Dan-Brown mystery journey.

This is an interesting and engaging book! As a fan of medical mysteries and historical tales, the two were perfectly blended!

Great read, good story and very interesting concept. I found myself rolling my eyes on all the lovey-dovey bits and felt the action scenes could have done with a lot more descriptive text - rather than a crocodile attack in two lines for example. I found the story choppy as it went backward and forward between the action and the characters dreams, which sometimes were not related to the plot. It was well researched and does drag you into the story though, and Kristen makes you want to finish it. Good Job.

I really enjoy books of this genre and Kristen has done a fantastic job with this one . I eagerly await the next one and to see how her writing skills grow . There is a lot of History references and judging by her Bibliography there was an incredible amount of research devoted to this book . Kudos it was a thoroughly enjoyable read .Author E.E.Borton is doing some similarly interesting work . Without Suffer Abomination

This novel has all the elements of a great thriller. A thoroughly engrossing blend of science, mystery, tragedy, history, despair, & hope. It is a story that will stay with me for awhile, and while I'm tempted to download & begin reading the sequel, I think I'll order the printed version and savor this one for a few days before continuing.

Interesting history-based mystery, although the science is rather weak. The author apparently doesn't understand the difference between a chemical compound (two or more elements combined into a molecule) and an isotope (a different form of a single element, with fewer or more neutrons in the atomic nucleus).

I was surprised at how much I liked this book. It was a great escape. History, travel--and ancient Egypt. What a great read.

I wanted to like the book, but I couldn't get past the physical and professional flawlessness of the main characfer. I also had trouble is with the unquestioned cultural appropriation of Muslim women's clothing and the flagrant treatment of ancient world sitez. The ending seemed quite cliche, too. I was happy to be done with it.

takes you on a n historical journey but quite confusing at times and unlikely outcome.

Reminds me of Dan Brown's books. Some details are a little weird, but otherwise totally enjoyable. I like the writer's pacing and scientific background, it shows in the writing. I've recommended it to family. Keep them coming!