Helpful Score: 22
This must be one of the worst books I have ever read. If you've read Angels & Demons or Da Vinci Code, then you've read a better version of the same story. Really - the same plot, same themes, but the story itself gets sillier as Brown runs out of material. And in the end, all he's really doing is indulging himself. How do things like this even get published? I will say one thing, I have officially decided to never read Dan Brown again.
Helpful Score: 14
I just finished this book. I must say I am terribly disappointed. It lacked the originality of Da Vinci Code and Angels & Demons. I found it very poorly written in general. It was fairly predictable, in my opinion. I only really liked the character of Ma'Lakh.
Helpful Score: 11
The short review: The Lost Symbol is not as boring as my latest history textbook, but it's not for the lack of trying. The Lost Symbol is not even close to meeting the expectations set by Angels and Demons. Honestly, it seems like a half-hearted rewrite.
The longer review: I bought this audio book to occupy my time on the hour long commute to work. The story's mystery was the only thing that kept me from turning it off as The Lost Symbol is a bit redundant. (And by "a bit" I mean very.) I found myself losing interest in the repetitive history lectures wrapped in symbolism.
In what I assume is an attempt to draw out the story (was Dan Brown paid per page?) the mystery is blatantly interrupted by Masonic history and explanations of symbols that might have been cut and pasted from wikipedia (I'm not saying it was plagiarized. It is just that dry). For instance, "[a] disturbing object -- artfully encoded with five symbols -- is discovered in the Capitol Building. Langdon recognizes the object as an ancient invitation... one meant to usher its recipient into a long-lost world of esoteric wisdom." When the the meanings of the five symbols and the apparent invitation is explained, the story could have been shortened and the plot could have carried on. Instead, the symbolism was hashed, then rehashed and then reviewed again...just in case you slept through it the first time.
The longer review: I bought this audio book to occupy my time on the hour long commute to work. The story's mystery was the only thing that kept me from turning it off as The Lost Symbol is a bit redundant. (And by "a bit" I mean very.) I found myself losing interest in the repetitive history lectures wrapped in symbolism.
In what I assume is an attempt to draw out the story (was Dan Brown paid per page?) the mystery is blatantly interrupted by Masonic history and explanations of symbols that might have been cut and pasted from wikipedia (I'm not saying it was plagiarized. It is just that dry). For instance, "[a] disturbing object -- artfully encoded with five symbols -- is discovered in the Capitol Building. Langdon recognizes the object as an ancient invitation... one meant to usher its recipient into a long-lost world of esoteric wisdom." When the the meanings of the five symbols and the apparent invitation is explained, the story could have been shortened and the plot could have carried on. Instead, the symbolism was hashed, then rehashed and then reviewed again...just in case you slept through it the first time.
Helpful Score: 8
I have to say I liked this book! Not as good as DaVinci Code or Angels & Demons but still a page turner. Very much reminded me of the movie National Treasure though. I figured out pretty much where it was leading but it was still fun seeing Langdon figuring everything out. I can already see this one being made into a movie-and I will definately see it!
Helpful Score: 5
I just finished reading this novel, and it's a winner. Kept me engrossed thru the whole 500+ pages, and the finale was no where what I expected, which is great. If you enjoyed either (or both) of his previous R. Langdon novels, you'll enjoy this one just as much.
Helpful Score: 5
This book is the long awaited 3rd book in the Robert Langdon series by Dan Brown. It is NOT the best of the three. It had an interesting premise and lots of plot twists and turns, but also spent a number of pages preaching about certain theories and aspects of the book that made my eyes glaze over. I think that the "bad guy" in this book is the most interesting character as he is truly the one character that moves the plot line along. This book also took significantly longer than the previous two Robert Langdon books to really "hook" the reader.
Helpful Score: 5
Fantastic read. A page turner that kept me guessing until the very end. Next time I am in DC, I am sure I will not look at any building the same again. I still personally feel that Angels and Demons was his best writing to date, but I enjoyed this even more than The Davinci Code.
Helpful Score: 4
To be honest, I was a bit disappointed by The Lost Symbol. I read and loved both The Davinci Code and Angels & Demons, so I had high expectations for Dan Brown's latest book. However, I felt like the book lacked character development and originality. I probably would not recommend this book to others.
Helpful Score: 3
I waited awhile to pick this one up. I needed (mentally) for the hype to die a bit. While not the worst book I've read, it's only mediocre at best. The first third of the book was extremely stilted, wordy and well, boring. The second third picked up for me as I was interested in the Noetic information. I guessed fairly early on what was happening and was a little disappointed that it was so obvious. Being close to DC I was hoping there would have been MORE to the story instead of just a couple of monuments. I give it three stars but Dan Brown is REALLY going to have to pull a rabbit out of his hat for the next book to keep me interested in the series. Unless you are a rabid fan, I suggest waiting for the paperback...
Helpful Score: 3
I really enjoyed the book. Being from the DC area, I enjoyed another look at the area with its symbolism. I also enjoyed the historical references and descriptions. Makes me want to look them up and verify the information.
Helpful Score: 3
Amazon seems to have the answer Brown readers are asking: Is The Lost Symbol as good as the The Da Vinci Code ? Amazon says yes. I say no. My biggest pet peeve with this novel is quite that it reads like a repetition of the Da Vinci Code. Unfortunately Brown couldn't catch me with the same scheme again. Apparently the whole 528 pages plus/minus a few that go back into the past of certain characters, happens in one night, similar to the Da Vinci Code.
It is true that Brown's writing style is a bit naked, call it bland, I call it naked, but his books have gotten enough positive reviews so they can't be that bad. :-)
I liked the book but missed the references in the end. The topic Freemasons and Noetic Science is an interesting one but I guess only for those that are interested to do their research and learn or people who aren't interested in fiction and fact at all. I'm pretty sure that voices are already or will be loud about facts described wrongly etc. .
As one of Brown's characters said a few times in the ending: It's all about the perspective, from which angle you look at things. He's right with this statement when it comes to the book and in general.
So what's to wish for in the future ? Maybe, and be aware here comes a spoiler, not again the bible (thanks) in the ending, visit other places like for example Egypt, there is so much you can write about, change the storyline, the scheme, or just stay who you are, Mr. Brown, obviously your books reach readers and that's what a writer wants, that's what makes a good book. :-)
It is true that Brown's writing style is a bit naked, call it bland, I call it naked, but his books have gotten enough positive reviews so they can't be that bad. :-)
I liked the book but missed the references in the end. The topic Freemasons and Noetic Science is an interesting one but I guess only for those that are interested to do their research and learn or people who aren't interested in fiction and fact at all. I'm pretty sure that voices are already or will be loud about facts described wrongly etc. .
As one of Brown's characters said a few times in the ending: It's all about the perspective, from which angle you look at things. He's right with this statement when it comes to the book and in general.
So what's to wish for in the future ? Maybe, and be aware here comes a spoiler, not again the bible (thanks) in the ending, visit other places like for example Egypt, there is so much you can write about, change the storyline, the scheme, or just stay who you are, Mr. Brown, obviously your books reach readers and that's what a writer wants, that's what makes a good book. :-)
Helpful Score: 3
This is the first book I read by Dan Brown. All I can say is WOW!!! This is the best book I have read in a long time. It sure kept me hanging and I wasn't disappointed. I have read the other reviews and some were disappointed by it. Well, these reviews are the opinions by the reader. I still loved it and it got me thinking about a lot of things that were mentioned in the book. Strap yourself in because you will be going on a wild ride!!!
Helpful Score: 3
All I can say is, WOW! This was one of the most fascinating stories I've read so far. It's unbelievable to me just how Mr. Brown could think of this story with all the twists and turns. I highly recommend this book to any mystery lovers out there. Especially those of you who are into symbolism. This book will keep you glued to the pages! Dan Brown does it again!! I'd actually like to see a movie made of this - I'm sure it would be a sell-out!
Helpful Score: 2
After reading Angels and Demons as well as The DaVinci Code - I was expecting more. This book disappointed me on a lot of levels. Instead of writing more on plot - he spent a lot of time writing gory details of different scenes, which were completely unnecessary to move the plot forward.
The premise was interesting, and living in close proximity to DC made it appealing. Overall, this book was disappointing in plot and pace.
The premise was interesting, and living in close proximity to DC made it appealing. Overall, this book was disappointing in plot and pace.
Helpful Score: 2
Well, you can't go wrong with Dan Brown! This one I almost liked better than his other Langdon novels (Angels and Demons, The Da Vinci Code) because as a (typical?) American, I have been to Washington D.C. and seen firsthand most of the landmarks mentioned, but I have never been to Rome or Paris. Great twist in the end of this one, and if you have an interest in the Masons, this has a lot of interesting tidbits. Dan Brown is always entertaining; you can't miss if you liked the others.
Helpful Score: 2
I don't even know how to start in writing about this book. First, it was action-packed. A very fast-paced book. I'm not a huge Dan Brown fan...I really liked Angels and Demons, but I didn't like da Vinci Code, and Deception Point was terrible. In comparison, Lost Symbol is much better.
Throughout most of the book, I kept thinking, "Hey! This is really good!" I love the settings of Brown's novels - D.C., Paris, Italy, etc. I also love the history - clearly Brown does extensive research before writing each novel.
There were also a lot of twists and turns in the plot. There was one major plot twist that I didn't see coming until a couple pages before, and I love that. However, I thought the ending was terrible. I can't describe my disappointment in how the book was wrapped up. I wanted to chuck the book across the room (but I refrained b/c it's large enough to do some damage). Things just seemed to work out too easily for the main characters. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say it was unrealistic. And incredibly cheesy. But, I did enjoy most of the novel.
If you like his other books, it's definitely worth reading. Hopefully others won't share in my disappointment.
Throughout most of the book, I kept thinking, "Hey! This is really good!" I love the settings of Brown's novels - D.C., Paris, Italy, etc. I also love the history - clearly Brown does extensive research before writing each novel.
There were also a lot of twists and turns in the plot. There was one major plot twist that I didn't see coming until a couple pages before, and I love that. However, I thought the ending was terrible. I can't describe my disappointment in how the book was wrapped up. I wanted to chuck the book across the room (but I refrained b/c it's large enough to do some damage). Things just seemed to work out too easily for the main characters. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say it was unrealistic. And incredibly cheesy. But, I did enjoy most of the novel.
If you like his other books, it's definitely worth reading. Hopefully others won't share in my disappointment.
Helpful Score: 1
As far as Dan Brown novels go, this was one of the great disappointments. After well-received books like Angels and Demons and Da Vinci Code, The Lost Symbol is just okay. It's basically the same story as the other two, but taking place in America and not done as well. I don't think it's bad. The first two-thirds hold your attention pretty well, and there are some interesting ideas. But it's definitely a weak thriller. By the last fifty pages, the fast pace is gone and the explanations are just silly. If you're looking for a Dan Brown-type thriller, this one isn't horrible . . . but you can definitely do better.
Helpful Score: 1
A fun page turner set in Washington DC with Robert Langdon "solving" Masonic secrets. I felt like the philosophy side of this one is intentionally trying to be controversial, but I don't want to be a spoiler. If you like his other books, you'll probably be fine with this one too.
Helpful Score: 1
Certainly not the best of the three Langdon books, but worth reading. It will definitely be a movie, you can certainly get that idea from the book. It is wordy and much of the "set up" appears not necessary by the end, but all in all I would read it again and would recommend that fans of Robert Langdon, pick it up and read it. Can't swap yet, my husband has to read it, but it will be out there soon, despite 508 pages it is a quick, suspenseful read!
Helpful Score: 1
It took me forever to read this book. Too much info on his job of symbols and I fount that part boring. Basic story line was ok but too much other stuff I did not need to know or understand.
Helpful Score: 1
Bought this book the day it came out. I was so excited to read it and while it was a good book there asre some slow parts. Still worth the time.
Helpful Score: 1
interesting and fun but not as exciting as Angels and Demons.
Helpful Score: 1
AMAZING! The Robert Langdon series lives on in an exciting new adventure! The Lost Symbol takes you around Washington, DC in just one day. This book is so captivating you will actually believe you are living it. So hard to put down and even harder to finish...because you won't want it to end!
Helpful Score: 1
Once agin, Dan Brown writes a fantastic book, cannot wait for another
Helpful Score: 1
I would really love to sit down and have a conversation with Dan Brown! The subject matter of his novels fascinates me! And The Lost Symbol is no exception. I'm actually still reading the book as I write, but it is a must read. Whether you have read Dan Brown (The DaVinci Code) before or not, this book is captivating! Recurring character, Robert Langdon, finds himself embroiled in yet more intrigue as he is summoned to speak at a conference in Washington, D.C. When he arrives, he discovers that there is no conference. As he is wondering what to do next, a commotion occurs in the rotunda of the Capitol Building, where Langdon was to have given the talk. What Langdon discovers next is the first in a series of clues to hidden symbols, and cryptic messages guarded by the Freemasons for hundreds of years. In order to save the life of a friend, kidnapped to lure Langdon to D.C., Langdon must find and decipher the codes, thought to be the answer to the Ancient Mysteries. But the CIA has other ideas. Under no circumstances do they want these mysteries revealed!
Helpful Score: 1
Worth the long wait. Once again, Dan Brown manages to get Robert Langdon in another thriller. The beginning of the book was a bit slow but I just think that has to due with Brown's extensive research and educating the reader. Langdon is much more personal in this book and it makes for even more compelling reading. Personally, Angels and Demons is my all time Dan Brown favorite but this book ranks right up there.
Helpful Score: 1
What started out as a great books turned into watching a balloon slowly deflate. The history and symbolism were fascinating, but the whole tattooed menace grew old quickly. I can't say that the book was overly long, or dwelled on the wrong thing, it just lost it spark midway through and never regained it.
Invited by his long time friend Peter Solomon, Robert Langdon has been invited to Washington DC to delivery a speech. Not only is Solomon an important man in his own right, as head of the Smithsonian Museum, but he also happens to be a high-ranking Mason. There was no speech planned, Langdon was lured there because it is thought that he could unlock an ancient portal hidden in Washington.
Peter Solomon has been kidnapped and with the help of Solomon's daughter, Langdon sets out to decipher clues that will keep Solomon alive and slowly discover the guarded secrets of the Freemasons. Through use of symbolism and Neotic Science Brown leads the reader down many twisted avenues to an ending that was neither shocking or awe inspiring.
Though there were many good sections and times that I went and did a bit more research on topics that were mentioned, overall the book was just so-so. Langdon seemed a bit more bumbling then I remember him being in previous books, the beautiful woman that assists him is over used and the tattooed antagonist was predictable. Maybe it was because of all the hype, but I was expecting more. Maybe next time.
Invited by his long time friend Peter Solomon, Robert Langdon has been invited to Washington DC to delivery a speech. Not only is Solomon an important man in his own right, as head of the Smithsonian Museum, but he also happens to be a high-ranking Mason. There was no speech planned, Langdon was lured there because it is thought that he could unlock an ancient portal hidden in Washington.
Peter Solomon has been kidnapped and with the help of Solomon's daughter, Langdon sets out to decipher clues that will keep Solomon alive and slowly discover the guarded secrets of the Freemasons. Through use of symbolism and Neotic Science Brown leads the reader down many twisted avenues to an ending that was neither shocking or awe inspiring.
Though there were many good sections and times that I went and did a bit more research on topics that were mentioned, overall the book was just so-so. Langdon seemed a bit more bumbling then I remember him being in previous books, the beautiful woman that assists him is over used and the tattooed antagonist was predictable. Maybe it was because of all the hype, but I was expecting more. Maybe next time.
Helpful Score: 1
Contemporary mystery/thriller by Dan Brown. Our hero Robert Langdon is in a race to save his friend from a violent lunatic, with the CIA chasing him. Along the way, we learn a lot about the Freemasons, the founding of our country, Washington DC, and symbolism. I found the actual story the most compelling. Not a bad book.
Helpful Score: 1
After finishing The Lost Symbol, I've now read every Dan Brown book. I find that each book is pretty much the same with slightly different conspiracies, though Robert Langdon keeps mostly to biblical or freemason type mysteries. The book is still a page-turning, staying-up-all-night-cause-you-can't-put-it-down, exciting read, so 4 stars for addictiveness, -1 star for "I feel like I've read this before".
If you still like Brown but want to try some without Robert Langdon, try Deception Point.
If you still like Brown but want to try some without Robert Langdon, try Deception Point.
Helpful Score: 1
Absolutely fascinating! Fast paced that kept me reading! I couldn't put it down! A wonderful addition to the Robert Langdon series!!
Michael G. (doctorslime) -
Helpful Score: 1
Not a Thrilling as I would have hoped, however decidedly believable.
When one works with contemporary fiction and reality you are limited
by how amazing real life can be. I was dissatisifed with how psychologically
bullet proof the characters were, I felt they should have felt more and been
less spock-like in their interactions, with each other and damaged more by the
events that they endured. Their life goes on attitudes I felt lessened the overall
impact of the book and made it a shorter by 200 pages read.
Good Book, Not as Thrilling as I would have hoped, shallow character development.
When one works with contemporary fiction and reality you are limited
by how amazing real life can be. I was dissatisifed with how psychologically
bullet proof the characters were, I felt they should have felt more and been
less spock-like in their interactions, with each other and damaged more by the
events that they endured. Their life goes on attitudes I felt lessened the overall
impact of the book and made it a shorter by 200 pages read.
Good Book, Not as Thrilling as I would have hoped, shallow character development.
Great book. I liked all of the background info that helps to unravel the hidden meanings.
Barbara S. (barbsis) -
I enjoyed the mystery but found the religious aspects to go on and on adnauseam. This book does to DC what [book:Angels & Demons|960] did for Rome and the Vatican. This provided a lot more about the hidden architecture of DC than I needed or wanted to know. It is interesting but Dan Brown doesn't know when to stop. The science of Noetics (a combination of partical physics and mystical philosophy) is an interesting science until it gets too religious. I'm an atheist and all this religious babble really started getting on my nerves.
I found the cab ride to be the most ridiculous thing ever. Who in their right might speaks freely in a cab? Robert Langdon and Katherine Solomon finally escaped from the CIA and are running to sanctuary and yet here they are discussing every single thing they have discovered about the masonic pyramid. I understand that in order for the book to progress, the CIA had to have these details but Mr. Brown should have found a more believable way to get the information to them. This was beyond ridiculous. Robert Langdon is an incredibly brilliant symbolist and Katherine Solomon is a Noetic scientist whose entire purpose for being is a secret. Yet here they are casually discussing national secrets in a cab while running for their lives. DUH!
I found the cab ride to be the most ridiculous thing ever. Who in their right might speaks freely in a cab? Robert Langdon and Katherine Solomon finally escaped from the CIA and are running to sanctuary and yet here they are discussing every single thing they have discovered about the masonic pyramid. I understand that in order for the book to progress, the CIA had to have these details but Mr. Brown should have found a more believable way to get the information to them. This was beyond ridiculous. Robert Langdon is an incredibly brilliant symbolist and Katherine Solomon is a Noetic scientist whose entire purpose for being is a secret. Yet here they are casually discussing national secrets in a cab while running for their lives. DUH!
A good read. But, it comes in 3rd after Angels & Demons and The DaVinci Code.
Dan Brown wrote another great book! I couldn't put it down. I have read all three of the Robert Langdon series in a row and I'm exhausted!! The amount of information to absorb is mind exploding! As always, the ending I thought was going to happen, didn't, always a twist..... I think a good simple romance novel will have to be my next read.
Heather H. (harrhn0011) - , reviewed The Lost Symbol (Robert Langdon, Bk 3) on + 12 more book reviews
I found parts of the this book interesting and suspenceful, but overall, not one of his better works. The first couple hundred pages really dragged for me, with too much background to set up the events and characters, and the jumping from one place to another so much. The book finally picks up midway through, but I found the ending a bit of a let down. Overall, I think it would have been a better book if it was shorter.
After putting off reading Dan Brown's work for a long time, I found a copy of The Lost Symbol at the thrift store and decided to read it. I'm glad I did. Dan's writing flows so well and while the little chapters were at first unsettling, I found that the technique made the pages fly. Before I knew it I was at the end of the book - 509 pages in just one day. The story is complex, interesting and quite enjoyable. The key characters are Katherine and Peter Solomon, Robert Langdon, and Mal'akh. Masonic rituals and ideals thread throughout the story as does mysticism, and religions of the world. The first three characters are highly intelligent people who dedicate their lives to research, helping others and teaching. Mal'akh is the enemy who threatens their lives. This book gives one so much food for thought that I felt I should read the Bible again, read Ben Franklin and Isaac Newton's works about religion and study not only religions of the world but also how the mind works. Good read!
REALLY liked this book... Amazing.
This is a very good book. If it was from another author people would be saying how great it is. The problem I have with it is that some of the things he claims in the book, especially about the Masons, are just untrue and inaccurate. But take it as a fiction book as it is and enjoy the ride.
What a ride! I read The DaVinci Code and could never get into Angels & Demons, but this one sucked me in. I believe I was able to dive in fast because I could easily picture where each moment was taking place - love when I live around the corner from the story.
Thank goodness for a rainy day alone at the house with the pup - after 300 pages read in one day I had a hard time going to work on Monday with it unfinished.
Taking place all over Washington, D.C. this book takes you behind the scenes of the Masonic traditions that lie in the center of the founding of our country. I live right around the corner from the HUGE masonic temple in Alexandria, VA - sometimes I know where I am due to where I am in regards to it. The boy has some friends who are Masons, it has taken everything in me to sit and quiz them on the accuracy of this book.
A read I would recommend to young, old, male or female. I would definitely pass it along to those who live near me and know where all the events are taking place.
Thank goodness for a rainy day alone at the house with the pup - after 300 pages read in one day I had a hard time going to work on Monday with it unfinished.
Taking place all over Washington, D.C. this book takes you behind the scenes of the Masonic traditions that lie in the center of the founding of our country. I live right around the corner from the HUGE masonic temple in Alexandria, VA - sometimes I know where I am due to where I am in regards to it. The boy has some friends who are Masons, it has taken everything in me to sit and quiz them on the accuracy of this book.
A read I would recommend to young, old, male or female. I would definitely pass it along to those who live near me and know where all the events are taking place.
Good storyline lots of drama with twists and turns. A typical Dan Brown book which I highly recommend.
Another great Dan Brown Novel. Robert Langdon return's in a new adventure in the heart of our nations capitol. Washington DC.... A must read!
When Robert Langdon receives a last-minute invitation to speak at a lecture in Washington, DC from his good friend Peter Solomon he doesn't realize that there's no lecture, that his good friend didn't invite him and that there is a fiendish villain manipulating the powerful Mason's friends and family in his pursuit of supernatural powers and revenge. Again Langdon is in a race against time but now his friend's life and national security are on the line, as well as the mystery of the lost symbol.
After reading Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code I looked forward to this book and when it finally came in the mail I set to devour it in a weekend. The beginning was very promising. Robert Langdon is once again plucked out of his academic routine by a mysterious phone call. There is an ancient secret that has to do with the Masons. The villain is especially chilling in his ability to be an outsider who is somehow in the thick of things. The police and the secret service are on Langdon's heels and it's impossible to tell whether they're the good or the bad guys. So far so good. Except that's when things started getting different.
For one thing there's not a murder. There is a kidnapping and a threat of a murder which gives the story a new level of intensity. The scientist here is a brilliant woman working in the field of revolutionary Noetic Science, who also happens to be the kidnapped man's sister. (If you're wondering what in the world Noetic Science is here's an example from the book: Katherine Solomon studies the physical, quantifiable effect of positive thinking on matter and weighs a human soul.) And finally the lost symbol is a secret glyph that stands for a word that according to legend can unlock the gates between our world and the other side and imbue the dark priest with demonic powers. Told you it was getting different.
Of course Brown is a master of weaving improbable tales into a believable narrative so I sat there white-knuckling the couch as people died, the identity of the villain was revealed and the fate of the most powerful politicians in the country hung by the thinnest thread over the abyss of unthinkable scandal. I waited with baited breath to discover what this much guarded lost symbol was and what it stood for and then... then the house of cards collapsed. I could not believe it. The elaborate structure of incredible imaginings, breathtaking plot developments and sympathetic characters crumbled in a way that made me think that Brown had to quickly wrap up the story because it didn't really have anywhere else to go and couldn't think of a good way to do it. Without giving away the exact resolution I can say that my level of dissatisfaction with the ending could only compare to the dreaded "and then he woke up and realized that it was all a dream" scenario. I quite literally turned the last page, flipped back, turned the last page again and thought to myself "Er... What?!?" Not much in terms of eloquence but that was the extent of my confusion.
So there you have it. I really did enjoy the first 4/5 of the book. It's always fun to follow Langdon in his tweeds and loafers on his mad dashes in pursuit of truth with the timer ticking; the spiritual side of me understood the whole idea of Noetic Science and I was really sorry to see those who died go (as King said, kill your darlings, and Brown does just that here); the extent of research that goes into Brown's books is staggering and the "lectures" consistently tickle my historical curiosity but the ending spoiled this book for me and there's not much I can do about this lingering sense of dissatisfaction. If you've read the book let me know what your thoughts are. If you're considering reading it don't let me dissuade you, may be you'll love it and it'll make perfect sense to you. For me it was a 3 out of 5 stars.
Read my other reviews at bibliophilescorner.blogspot.com
After reading Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code I looked forward to this book and when it finally came in the mail I set to devour it in a weekend. The beginning was very promising. Robert Langdon is once again plucked out of his academic routine by a mysterious phone call. There is an ancient secret that has to do with the Masons. The villain is especially chilling in his ability to be an outsider who is somehow in the thick of things. The police and the secret service are on Langdon's heels and it's impossible to tell whether they're the good or the bad guys. So far so good. Except that's when things started getting different.
For one thing there's not a murder. There is a kidnapping and a threat of a murder which gives the story a new level of intensity. The scientist here is a brilliant woman working in the field of revolutionary Noetic Science, who also happens to be the kidnapped man's sister. (If you're wondering what in the world Noetic Science is here's an example from the book: Katherine Solomon studies the physical, quantifiable effect of positive thinking on matter and weighs a human soul.) And finally the lost symbol is a secret glyph that stands for a word that according to legend can unlock the gates between our world and the other side and imbue the dark priest with demonic powers. Told you it was getting different.
Of course Brown is a master of weaving improbable tales into a believable narrative so I sat there white-knuckling the couch as people died, the identity of the villain was revealed and the fate of the most powerful politicians in the country hung by the thinnest thread over the abyss of unthinkable scandal. I waited with baited breath to discover what this much guarded lost symbol was and what it stood for and then... then the house of cards collapsed. I could not believe it. The elaborate structure of incredible imaginings, breathtaking plot developments and sympathetic characters crumbled in a way that made me think that Brown had to quickly wrap up the story because it didn't really have anywhere else to go and couldn't think of a good way to do it. Without giving away the exact resolution I can say that my level of dissatisfaction with the ending could only compare to the dreaded "and then he woke up and realized that it was all a dream" scenario. I quite literally turned the last page, flipped back, turned the last page again and thought to myself "Er... What?!?" Not much in terms of eloquence but that was the extent of my confusion.
So there you have it. I really did enjoy the first 4/5 of the book. It's always fun to follow Langdon in his tweeds and loafers on his mad dashes in pursuit of truth with the timer ticking; the spiritual side of me understood the whole idea of Noetic Science and I was really sorry to see those who died go (as King said, kill your darlings, and Brown does just that here); the extent of research that goes into Brown's books is staggering and the "lectures" consistently tickle my historical curiosity but the ending spoiled this book for me and there's not much I can do about this lingering sense of dissatisfaction. If you've read the book let me know what your thoughts are. If you're considering reading it don't let me dissuade you, may be you'll love it and it'll make perfect sense to you. For me it was a 3 out of 5 stars.
Read my other reviews at bibliophilescorner.blogspot.com
Not quite as good as Angels & Demons, but is still good. The ending is pretty lame.
Just wasted several days reading this book. Kept hoping something interesting would happen. It didn't. Don't think I'll be wasting my time on any other Dan Brown books. I can't believe I spent so much time on this trash!
Loved this book! I believe this is the best one Dan Brown has written.
I really don't have a lot to say about the book that won't give most of the plot away. It was a really good read, but very familiar in the sense almost identical to his other books in layout. Robert is thrown into a mystery against his will, meets a cute girl, goes through puzzles and old myths to solve said mystery, escapes death a lot, and of course a Brown twist. There I don't think that should give away anything since we've all read it before : )
Worth the read but don't have overly high expectations.
Worth the read but don't have overly high expectations.
3.0 out of 5 stars Pedantic, boring, tedious..., August 23, 2010
This review is from: The Lost Symbol (Robert Langdon, No. 3) (Hardcover)
I'm sorry to say that this book was just "ok" for me. I found much of it pedantic and boring and tedious. I skimmed entire chapters, just wanting Brown to get on with the story. Perhaps I'm tired of secret societies and hidden mysteries. I don't have the patience to wait while Langdon works through symbols and codes to get the answer -- oh wait -- that's not all! There was no universal truth or magical end result in this novel. In addition, it was overly long and could have used some serious editing -- or mass deletion of minuscule detail.
I do not like the cliffhanger chapter endings that Brown used throughout this book. I never developed any kind of empathy or interest in the characters that populated this novel, and even Langdon became annoying as he "almost got it" many times. The revelation at the end was not unexpected and certainly wasn't so exciting that it was worth plodding through the previous 500+ pages.
Parts of the story were interesting, but it seemed as if Brown tried too hard to blend religion and science and the ancient mysteries. Recommend that if you must read it, borrow it! Or better yet, wait for the movie...
This review is from: The Lost Symbol (Robert Langdon, No. 3) (Hardcover)
I'm sorry to say that this book was just "ok" for me. I found much of it pedantic and boring and tedious. I skimmed entire chapters, just wanting Brown to get on with the story. Perhaps I'm tired of secret societies and hidden mysteries. I don't have the patience to wait while Langdon works through symbols and codes to get the answer -- oh wait -- that's not all! There was no universal truth or magical end result in this novel. In addition, it was overly long and could have used some serious editing -- or mass deletion of minuscule detail.
I do not like the cliffhanger chapter endings that Brown used throughout this book. I never developed any kind of empathy or interest in the characters that populated this novel, and even Langdon became annoying as he "almost got it" many times. The revelation at the end was not unexpected and certainly wasn't so exciting that it was worth plodding through the previous 500+ pages.
Parts of the story were interesting, but it seemed as if Brown tried too hard to blend religion and science and the ancient mysteries. Recommend that if you must read it, borrow it! Or better yet, wait for the movie...
very good read
I couldn't put this down - finished it in one day! A very enjoyable thriller.
I haven't finished this yet but cannot put it down!! It's fascinating and fast-moving. A real page-turner!
This is the British edition, even more impenetrable than the American.
This is certainly a read that will keep you interested. Interesting characters and storyline. Some of the dialogue seems trite, but not so much so that you'll want to stop reading.
In a word, fantastic. Dan Brown has a way of taking obscure facts and turning them into a fascinating story. Each book gets better and better.
Follows in the footsteps of Davinchi Code and Angels and Demons. Kept me reading late into the evening, not wanting to put it down. I highly recommend it.
Filled with twists, this book blew me away at every turn and I feel this Robert Langdon story is the best yet!
Great read, in true Dan Brown style.
AS always, Dan Brown comes through with a good mystery. this is a MUST read, if you like anythiing by this author
If you are a Dan Brown fan, you won't be disappointed.
It's another breathless thrill ride as Robert Langdon finds himself in a deadly race against time, up against a mad and brilliant tattooed man in a Washington DC suddenly rife with Freemasons and the ancient symbols they hid in plain sight throughout the city.
It's long at around 650 pages and at times a little too concerned with educating us about all the symbolism and mythic lore enshrined in our Capitol....and it should have ended 20 pages earlier.
Nonetheless it's a great read and I, for one, will not view DC with quite the same eyes again.
It's another breathless thrill ride as Robert Langdon finds himself in a deadly race against time, up against a mad and brilliant tattooed man in a Washington DC suddenly rife with Freemasons and the ancient symbols they hid in plain sight throughout the city.
It's long at around 650 pages and at times a little too concerned with educating us about all the symbolism and mythic lore enshrined in our Capitol....and it should have ended 20 pages earlier.
Nonetheless it's a great read and I, for one, will not view DC with quite the same eyes again.
Very exciting and hard to put down. I would love to see this made into a movie.
I enjoy reading Dan Brown's books. I find them very interesting although for me, it takes a while to get into.
This was a very interesting addition and also kind of sad. One of the main characters finds out that the crazy person trying to kill him, his family, and friends is someone he loves. How that happens is the gist of the story - suffice it to say he was disrespectful and nasty, to begin with, and went totally off his rocker before long. Lots of interesting information about religion and science as well. I'll recommend to my book club.
Robert Langdon's adventures continue. I love Dan Brown!
I wonder if Robert Langdon ever thinks about rolling over and going back to sleep some days rather than running around for 24 hours.
Loved it! Easy read. Couldn't put it down. Well worth the read. I think I like this one better than the others in this series!
Dan Brown redeemed himself in this book after Angels and Demons for me. A very well done 3rd book in the Langdon series. If you enjoyed Da Vinci Code, then you will very much enjoy this novel. The pages practically turn themselves and before you know it its over and leaves you wanting more. Always a good thing about a book i feel
Brown again piles on symbols, mythology, and legend as Robert Langdon races to find the truth and avert world-wide calamity. This time, it's the Masonic Order that looms as the powerful secretive menace.
It was a little slow starting but once it got going it was really good. Definately not an ending I expected!
Good story. Not my favorite Dan Brown.
As someone who just loves American History and Masonic conspiracies this book was like a dream. I was riveted throughout and took copious notes on all the fun references. This was a really engaging story in Brown's predictable format. It keeps you reading, and takes you on a 24 hour adventure of a lifetime.
Too many people cannot distinguish Dan Brown books from real non-fiction. There is a reason it is call FICTION people! Does everyone know what fiction means? It means it's fantasy, untrue, a made up story that may have bits of reality and true bits of history, but overall isn't real or isn't reality.
I had to say that because I've read so many reviews from people who mistook The Da Vinci Code, Angels & Demons and this book as if they were factual history books or written as gospel. Get over it people. It's all fiction.
That said, I have thoroughly enjoyed the Robert Langdon series. It's remarkable how an iconologist has bridged crime, murder and mystery. And I also love how Dan Brown has been able to take a kernel or two of truths to create a fast paced mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time.
I had to say that because I've read so many reviews from people who mistook The Da Vinci Code, Angels & Demons and this book as if they were factual history books or written as gospel. Get over it people. It's all fiction.
That said, I have thoroughly enjoyed the Robert Langdon series. It's remarkable how an iconologist has bridged crime, murder and mystery. And I also love how Dan Brown has been able to take a kernel or two of truths to create a fast paced mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time.
Well researched, interesting historical facts. An easy read. Chericaters were well developed. Action, action, action. Ideas flowed well and themes were constant. Can't wait for the follow-up.
Out of all of his books, this is my LEAST favorite. His poor writing skills and constant lack of making Robert Langdon the intelligent college professor he is just annoyed me. It took me way too long to get through this book, too much detail was put into things that just didn't matter. It made me not even care to get to the end and find out what this mystery was. The last 5 chapters bored me to tear and I skimmed through a majority of the religious babbling at the end. By the conclusion of the novel Langdon was no longer the know it all professor he was in Brown's other two mysteries but a stupid very agreeant professor who was being told all the mysteries of DC. Huge disappointment.
excellent story telling
When is Robert Langdon going to realize that there are some days you should just stay in bed drinking tea, petting a cat, and watching the golf channel?
Fast paced book. Very similar to his other novels, but fun as always.
Not a bad read but definitely not on par with Angels and Deamons or Divinci Code. Seemed to me author was writing more of a screen play than a book. He definitly had how can I make this into a movie in mind when he was writing it.
I would honestly say this is one of the best, if not THEE best book I ever read.
I am almost finished and am having a problem putting it down..........I am in love with the characters.....can't wait to get to the end..
As the story opens, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is summoned unexpectedly to deliver an evening lecture in the U.S. Capitol Building. Within minutes of his arrival, however, the night takes a bizarre turn. A disturbing object -- artfully encoded with five symbols -- is discovered in the Capitol Building. Langdon recognizes the object as an ancient invitation... one meant to usher its recipient into a long-lost world of esoteric wisdom. When Langdon's beloved mentor, Peter Solomon -- a prominent Mason and philanthropist -- is brutally kidnapped, Langdon realizes his only hope of saving Peter is to accept this mystical invitation and follow wherever it leads him.
I found this book lacking in any character building for any of the good guys. All Brown's character building went into his villain. Even so, I knew well before I was halfway through who the villain really was, so there was no surprise there at all. Being that far ahead of the other characters made the rest of the story feel rather anti-climactic. Dan Brown is off my must-read list. Heck, he's even off my read-if-it-comes-my-way list.
DB does not disappoint
Wonderful topic and fast paced. However, I felt that it dragged in spots and could have been shorter. It does give you fuel to think about and maybe a trip to Washington D.C. to see some of the buildings.
K.C.C.
K.C.C.
Angela C. (rainbowreader) -
I found this as enjoyable as Angels and Demons, although I think that Deception Point and Digital Fortress are better, tighter stories. It is too bad that someone who has done his historical research so well insists on minimizing the message of the Gospel.
Nina R. (britishladybooklover) reviewed The Lost Symbol (Robert Langdon, Bk 3) on + 57 more book reviews
Excellent suspense, fast moving, very enjoyable.
Another Dan Brown thriller. He provided some intersting achitectural tidbits about our nation's capital and he didn't disappoint in the thriller aspect. I also found the whole Noetics information very thought provoking.
A fast-paced read, it was another enjoyable thriller by D Brown but I think it also wasn't nearly as good or enthralling as The DaVinci Code and Angels & Demons. I'd recommend reading it but don't expect the same riveting read as the other two.
I felt I deserved a reward for making it to the end of this one. A rehash of his previous two books, and not the best parts. He appeared to take all of the notes and excess laborious exposition about Masons that he had gathered and cobbled them together with a paper thin plot. This symbol should have stayed lost.
Dan Brown impressed me again with his fine story telling and attention to detail. I love the way he weaves fact with fiction. The Lost Symbol kept me in suspense until its very final pages with more than a few unexpected surprises along the way. Although I did not think this book was as good The DaVinci Code or Angels & Demons, I do still consider it a worthwhile read with a great deal of complexity and intrigue.
Like his other Robert Langdon adventures, this one is intriguing and offers a unique blend of history and legend. However, when all the clues are unravelled and the secret is revealed, it's not very exciting. In fact, when the cost of keeping this secret is counted, it's not worth it at all. Sorry.
Absolutely loved it. My favorite of Dan Brown's so far.
Great read very hard to put down!
