Revelations of the Ruby Crystal

Book Club Summary: Revelations of the Ruby Crystal by Barbara Hand Clow

This debut novel from acclaimed spiritual author and astrologer Barbara Hand Clow (known for works like The Pleiadian Agenda and The Mayan Code) is an initiatic, esoteric thriller blending romance, mysticism, psychic awakening, and hidden power structures. Set primarily in Rome in 2012, it follows Sarah Adamson, a young Catholic graduate student from Boston researching at the Vatican Library for her thesis on the early Christian heretic Marcion of Pontus.

Sarah finds herself courted by two contrasting suitors: Simon Appel, a journalist covering Vatican affairs for The New York Times and a descendant of the kabbalist Isaac Luria, and Armando Pierleoni, heir to an ancient Italian aristocratic family with deep Vatican connections. The story takes a dramatic turn after Sarah experiences a terrifying encounter with dark forces at a castle in Tuscany. Following this, she receives a powerful ruby ring set with a crystal that once served as the third eye of an ancient Buddha statue in Nepal.

The ruby awakens Sarah's latent visionary abilities, unlocks memories of her past life as the Sibyl of Cumae (an ancient prophetic figure), and sparks profound mystical insights. The narrative weaves erotic tension, deep earth energies, ritual, prophecy, divination, and revelations about Vatican influence, aristocracy, and cosmic forces. Described as an "intricately layered erotic thriller," it explores themes of power, corruption, spiritual awakening, and the interplay between ancient wisdom and modern institutions.

Part adventure across trans-Atlantic settings and part esoteric teaching tool, the book introduces readers to astrological and metaphysical concepts through a sensual, page-turning plot. It's the first in a trilogy that continues with Revelations of the Aquarius Age and Revelations from the Source, expanding on characters' roles in humanity's shift toward the Age of Aquarius.

Perfect for book club discussions on spirituality, astrology, the intersection of religion and occult knowledge, gender dynamics in mystical narratives, or how fiction can convey esoteric ideas. Expect rich symbolism, intense romance, and thought-provoking ideas about hidden histories and personal transformation!