Sophia von X by Victoria Ray is a mystery thriller novel that revolves around the adventures of Sabina Ferrara, a teacher of philosophy and a proud Catholic. Having filed for divorce from her husband to leave behind a painful marriage, she decides to go on a road trip to a fascinating new burial site believed to be holy and begins a most interesting journey from Palermo, Sicily to Bingerbuck, Germany. The supposed vacation turns out to be a string of adventures that includes meeting a con man disguised as a famous archaeologist, the stealing of biblical artifacts, and catching the attention of the infamous Papa Zen, and consequently, the eye of the FBI, the Interpol, and the police.

Victoria Ray's Sophia von X is one book that is truly hard to leave gathering dust on your bookshelf or ignored in your laptop, as the case may be. The story unravels in the most intriguing way when we get to know Sabina Ferrara, her family, and her circumstance. And as we go with Sabina on her road trip from Italy to Germany, we won't be disappointed because author Victoria Ray writes with almost microscopic attention to detail that sucks us into the story like going inside a black hole. And as we go from one scene to another, we can't help but really get to know the main protagonists of the story. Sophia von X is a story that has it all; obsessive love, dangerous secrets, painful tragedy, and betrayal. What more does one look for in a mystery thriller novel?

The author of this book gave me a copy to read, and can I just say I’m so glad she did! It’s a great read and I had such a thrill.

The book opens with a haunting quote from Tao Te Ching that only hints at the thrilling ride “Sophia Von X” is about to take the reader on.

From the very first chapters of the book, I found myself relating to the main character, Sabina— from her caution and fear when walking alone as a woman, to her relationship with Jesus. I could see myself in her shoes and that helped suck me into the story. I found myself noticing things that made Sabina nervous— namely bearded men. When a bearded man would appear, I would become anxious about her safety. On the contrary, when, for example, she met Tom, and described him as clean-shaven and handsome, I felt at ease and as though she was safe in his company. (I won’t spoil whether or not I was right!”

The descriptions of Sabina’s delicious food and drink throughout her travels left my mouth watering.

The horrifying, graphic scenes containing violence and gore were excellently written and gave me a proper scare, sending shivers down my spine.

The descriptions of the many countries Sabina navigates, though occasionally quick, transported me to these exquisite locations I have never seen. As I am an American, currently in a lockdown due to COVID-19, who has been just itching to travel, that was a refreshing element of the book. I truly got the sense that the author had been to all of these places— especially Istanbul!

The story is occasionally tragic and always surprising. There is something unexpected around every corner! Victoria makes bold decisions in her writing that will be sure to shock the reader! I read the whole book in just a few days— definitely a page-turner. Halfway through the book, you’ll think you know where things are going, but you have no idea! You just have to read to discover all the exciting twists!

Overall, I got Indiana Jones, James Bond, Mission: Impossible vibes— with a female protagonist! I loved the use of several strong, female characters. A must-read!