Lost Symbol - Hardcover

Brown

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 059306688X ISBN 13: 9780593066881

Publisher: Bantam, 2010

Synopsis

What was lost will be found...Harvard professor Robert Langdon is summoned to deliver an evening lecture in the Capitol Building, Washington DC. But within minutes of his arrival, a gruesome and disturbing discovery is made at the epicentre of the Rotunda. Langdon recognizes it as an ancient invitation, beckoning its recipient towards a long-lost world of hidden wisdom. And when Langdon's revered mentor is brutally kidnapped, he realizes his only chance to save his old friend is to accept this sinister summons...All that was familiar is transformed into a shadowy, clandestine world in which Masonic secrets and never-before-seen revelations seem to be leading him to a single impossible and inconceivable truth. As Langdon will discover, there is nothing more extraordinary or shocking than the secret which hides in plain sight...A brilliantly composed tapestry of veiled histories, arcane icons and enigmatic codes, "The Lost Symbol" is an intelligent, lightning-paced thriller that offers surprises at every turn. This exclusive edition features over 250 photographs and illustrations, allowing the reader to explore the rich historical research from which Dan Brown drew his inspiration, and uniquely complementing the reading experience.

About this title

Review

Let's start with the question every Dan Brown fan wants answered: Is The Lost Symbol as good as The Da Vinci Code? Simply put, yes. Brown has mastered the art of blending nail-biting suspense with random arcana (from pop science to religion), and The Lost Symbol is an enthralling mix. And what a dazzling accomplishment that is, considering that rabid fans and skeptics alike are scrutinizing every word.

The Lost Symbol begins with an ancient ritual, a shadowy enclave, and of course, a secret. Readers know they are in Dan Brown territory when, by the end of the first chapter, a secret within a secret is revealed. To tell too much would ruin the fun of reading this delicious thriller, so you will find no spoilers here. Suffice it to say that as with many series featuring a recurring character, there is a bit of a formula at work (one that fans will love). Again, brilliant Harvard professor Robert Langdon finds himself in a predicament that requires his vast knowledge of symbology and superior problem-solving skills to save the day. The setting, unlike other Robert Langdon novels, is stateside, and in Brown's hands Washington D.C. is as fascinating as Paris or Vatican City (note to the D.C. tourism board: get your "Lost Symbol" tour in order). And, as with other Dan Brown books, the pace is relentless, the revelations many, and there is an endless parade of intriguing factoids that will make you feel like you are spending the afternoon with Robert Langdon and the guys from Mythbusters.

Nothing is as it seems in a Robert Langdon novel, and The Lost Symbol itself is no exception--a page-turner to be sure, but Brown also challenges his fans to open their minds to new information. Skeptical? Imagine how many other thrillers would spawn millions of Google searches for noetic science, superstring theory, and Apotheosis of Washington. The Lost Symbol is brain candy of the best sort--just make sure to set aside time to enjoy your meal. --Daphne Durham


More from Dan Brown

The Da Vinci Code	Angels & Demons	Deception Point	Digital Fortress

About the Author

Dan Brown is the bestselling author of Digital Fortress, Deception Point, Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code. He is a graduate of Amherst College and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he has taught English and creative writing. He lives in New England. Visit his UK website at www.danbrownofficial.co.uk

About this edition

• Publisher: Bantam
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 059306688X
• ISBN 13: 9780593066881
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 528