Dragon of God, The

A religious thriller in the same vein as Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code, Berkeley religion professor Bill Miner receives a phone call from police asking for help when mysterious cult symbols are found at the scene of an apparent suicide and finds himself drawn into a baffling mystery: What does the supposed accidental death of a 67-year-old hiker in the Sierra Nevada have to do with the fatal mugging of a young woman in Washington, or with the deadly hit and run of a mother in Kansas? Professor Miner quickly discovers another reason to assist: Neuroscientist Victoria Johnson, daughter of the first victim. Miner, who no longer believes in God, and Ms. Johnson, an evangelical, vacillate between heated religious arguments and romantic sparks as they chase across the country to stop a relentless serial killer. The Dragon of God wrestles with questions bitingly pertinent in today’s world where doctrine can justify hatred and hatred can turn lethal: Why do good people do bad things in the name of religion? Why have science and religion become so hostile to each other? Where does humanity come from and where are we headed? This intelligent page-turner blends extensive research accented with arguments for gender equality that would make Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg proud. Miner discloses evidence that biblical texts were manipulated by the early church to subordinate the role of women, and Johnson, an equally strong co-star, demonstrates exceptional aptitude, leadership, and resourcefulness. One reviewer writes, “Tense drama, gentle romance, and provocative yet subtle questioning of established ideas. No matter what your current world view is, this book will challenge you with new insights to consider. Might even help contribute to world peace.”