My rating: 3.5/5 stars
The charming sequel to the first book in the four-book ‘Marc Royce’ series, Rare Earth by Davis Bunn is an intriguing novel, that keeps the reader eagerly anticipating each event leading up to the final moment.
Marc Royce has been assigned to yet another fascinating mission. He has been commissioned as an undercover accountant to a popular yet controversial company that provides supplies and security to international countries. His assignment is located in Kenya, where he is sent to a desolate refugee camp, in which displaced residents are gathered, due to the calamity of a disastrous volcano eruption. Upon his arrival, he is greeted by disgruntled residents who are desperate for resources and a permanent home. He soon discovers that their displacement is due to governmental corruption and deceit. Marc’s fierce loyalty and sincere desire to assist the displaced residents of Kenya garners much honor and respect from the chief elders of the neighboring tribes, the locals, as well as a volunteer medic provider who captures his intrigue and heart. While on the hunt for the corruptive operative, Marc discovers an upstanding calling on his life, as he grows to admire the resiliency of the Kenyan people.
“God demands our allegiance above all things. We are to remain steadfast with him, even when things are the hardest, even when we are the weakest, even when we are angry, even when we are afraid” (Philip, Rare Earth).
Adequately paced and gripping, Rare Earth, is a great story that tells of resiliency, faith, and determination. Author Davis Bunn beautifully captured the cultural practices and traditions of the Kenyan people throughout the novel. He masterfully created a story full of impressive imagery and descriptive prose. The novel is not incredibly permeated with Christian content, however the unwavering dedication of several prominent characters to Christ was pleasantly depicted. I was rather displeased with the romantic element of the story. I felt that Marc Royce’s love venture was depicted unrealistically. The romantic component of the novel could have been better developed throughout the story. Overall, I enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys an enthralling international political thriller, with a Christian basis.
