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Religious precepts are sensitive topics. This explains why Dan Brown's novels generate controversy. With historical theme and Abrahamic religions as keynotes, Emin weaves a plot that traverses the path Brown has already crisscrossed. The Scroll is a winding take on the nature vs. nurture debate with the genetically Hebrew Moses who was raised as an Egyptian prince at the center. The discovery of the scroll, found to be penned by the Biblical Moses himself, sent French-Canadian archeologist Etienne Cloutier flying to Egypt and battling for his life. Overall it is a satisfying escapist read!
Emin gives readers a great dose of history and culture. He is obviously well versed and learned in archeology and Egyptian culture. And he doles out information without forcing it in the story. He parrots his own conspiratorial farrago without the constant negative positioning of sacred dogma and secular law. His approach is never disrespectful. Additionally, his world in the book has a multicultural feel and a constructive atmosphere.
The novel has a very interesting story idea. With the author's ability to incorporate Egyptian and French concepts seamlessly in the dialogues and narratives, it has potential to be an outstanding creation. The book's penchant for details, while lessening the vagueness and adding to overall precision, at times clogs the paragraphs and sentences. With some refinement on transitional flow, The Scroll can be at par with well respected historical-conspiracy fiction novels.