Step into the thrilling world of the Order of the Sanguines, where ancient secrets, vampiric priests, and apocalyptic stakes collide in a heart-pounding blend of fantasy, suspense, and Christian mythology! Co-authored by James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell, this gripping trilogy follows archaeologist Erin Granger and her allies as they race to uncover a sacred book and prevent a world-ending prophecy. Perfect for fans of Dan Brown and Anne Rice, this series weaves history, religion, and supernatural thrills into an unforgettable adventure.
With its unique take on vampire lore—think Vatican-sanctioned blood-drinkers who serve Christ—this series delivers high-stakes action and thought-provoking explorations of faith, morality, and redemption. Ready to dive into a world where miracles and monsters coexist? Let’s explore the Order of the Sanguines!
How the Order of the Sanguines Began
The series was born from a spark of inspiration when James Rollins, a bestselling thriller author, visited a museum exhibit featuring Rembrandt’s painting 'The Raising of Lazarus.' Struck by the fear in the figures’ faces, Rollins began pondering early Catholicism and vampirism, envisioning a secret sect within the Vatican. Knowing the story’s epic scope, he teamed up with Rebecca Cantrell, an award-winning historical mystery writer, whose gothic sensibilities and emotional depth complemented his action-packed style. Together, they crafted a world where science, myth, and religion intertwine, launching the series with a collaborative process that included detailed outlines and a shared 'World Bible' to define its mythology.
The Heart of the Order of the Sanguines
The trilogy kicks off with The Blood Gospel (2013), where an earthquake in Masada, Israel, reveals a tomb holding a mummified girl and sets Erin Granger, Sergeant Jordan Stone, and Vatican priest Father Rhun Korza on a quest for a book written by Christ’s own hand. Innocent Blood (2013) deepens the stakes, as the trio protects a boy believed to be an angel incarnate while battling vampiric strigoi. The saga concludes with Blood Infernal (2015), a breakneck finale where Erin faces Lucifer himself to avert the Apocalypse. Two short stories, City of Screams (2012) and Blood Brothers (2013), add depth to the series’ world.
Blending gothic horror, historical intrigue, and supernatural thrills, the series explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the clash between good and evil. Its settings—spanning the catacombs of Rome, the icy Arctic, and the gates of Hell—immerse readers in a richly detailed world. The Sanguinists, vampires who drink Christ’s blood through transubstantiation, offer a fresh spin on vampire lore, grounding the fantastical in Christian ritual. Fans praise the series for its seamless blend of Rollins’ scientific precision and Cantrell’s emotional resonance, creating a narrative that’s both pulse-pounding and poignant.
Why the Order of the Sanguines Resonates
The Order of the Sanguines has carved a niche among fantasy and thriller fans, blending the intellectual puzzles of The Da Vinci Code with the dark allure of vampire fiction. Its bold integration of Christian mythology and vampire lore sparks curiosity and debate, appealing to readers who crave stories that challenge conventions of faith and history. The series’ emotional depth and complex characters—like the flawed yet heroic Erin Granger—leave a lasting impact, with fans rereading the trilogy for its intricate plotting and vivid world-building. Though it concluded in 2015, its cult following continues to grow, cementing its place as a standout in supernatural suspense.
- Publication Years: 2012–2015
- Number of Books: 3 novels, 2 short stories
- Genres: Fantasy, suspense, supernatural thriller
- Authors: James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell
Grab The Blood Gospel and dive into the Order of the Sanguines’ shadowy world of miracles, monsters, and high-stakes adventure! Whether you’re a history buff or a vampire fanatic, this series promises a thrilling ride you won’t forget.