"An emperor's crypt contains vast wealth"

Elvira De Poulain has arrived in Shanghai to claim her deceased husband's remains and then return to Paris as quickly as possible. Instead of a fast turn around, the widow suddenly finds herself along with an Irish journalist, local antiquarian and orphaned child on a desperate trip to retrieve an ancient Chinese treasure of immense value.

Among her husband's possessions Elvira discovers a small container that holds the clues to the location of China's first emperor's remains and, more to the point, the unimaginable riches buried alongside him. This beautifully crafted box cost Elvira's husband his life and now she must try to stay one step ahead of those who are determined to possess it.

Set in China in the 1920s, this thriller has it all - nail- biting suspense, rousing adventure, an exotic setting, ancient philosophy, fascinating history, and a cast of unforgettable characters. You'll quickly discover that the intricate plot and action packed pace of this novel make it all but impossible to set aside.

Because of the success of her first novel, "The Last Cato", a lot is now expected of this Spanish author. Fortunately, she proves that her initial work was not a fluke.

"Everything Under the Sky" proves Matilde Asensi is for real and definitely a new voice to be reckoned with!

Reviewed by Bob Walch
Posted March 31, 2009