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Dan Brown Omnibus: Angels and Demons / The da Vinci Code
Angels & Demons
When a world, renowned scientist is found brutally murdered in a Swiss research facility, a Harvard professor, Robert Langdon, is summoned to identify the mysterious symbol seared onto the dead man's chest. His baffling conclusion: it is the work of the Illuminati, a secret brotherhood presumed extinct for nearly four hundred years - reborn to continue their bitter vendetta against their sworn enemy, the Catholic church.
In Rome, the college of cardinals assembles to elect a new pope. Yet somewhere within the walls of the Vatican, an unstoppable bomb of terrifying power relentlessly counts down to oblivion. While the minutes tick away, Langdon joins forces with Vittoria Vetra, a beautiful and mysterious Italian scientist, to decipher the labyrinthine trail of ancient symbols that snakes across Rome to the long-forgotten Illuminati lair - a secret refuge wherein lies the only hope for the Vatican.
But with each revelation comes another twist, another turn in the plot, which leaves Langdon and Vetra reeling and at the mercy of a seemingly invisible enemy...
The da Vinci Code
A fascinating and absorbing thriller -- perfect for history buffs, conspiracy nuts, puzzle lovers or anyone who appreciates a great, riveting story.
While in Paris on business, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon receives an urgent late-night phone call: the elderly curator of the Louvre has been murdered inside the museum. Near the body, police have found a baffling cipher. While working to solve the enigmatic riddle, Langdon is stunned to discover it leads to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Da Vinci -- clues visible for all to see -- yet ingeniously disguised by the painter.
Langdon joins forces with a gifted French cryptologist, Sophie Neveu, and learns the late curator was involved in the Priory of Sion -- an actual secret society whose members included Sir Isaac Newton, Botticelli, Victor Hugo, and Da Vinci, among others.
In a breathless race through Paris, London, and beyond, Langdon and Neveu match wits with a faceless powerbroker who seems to anticipate their every move. Unless Langdon and Neveu can decipher the labyrinthine puzzle in time, the Priory's ancient secret -- and an explosive historical truth -- will be lost forever.
The Da Vinci Code heralds the arrival of a new breed of lightning-paced, intelligent thriller utterly unpredictable right up to its stunning conclusion.
When a world, renowned scientist is found brutally murdered in a Swiss research facility, a Harvard professor, Robert Langdon, is summoned to identify the mysterious symbol seared onto the dead man's chest. His baffling conclusion: it is the work of the Illuminati, a secret brotherhood presumed extinct for nearly four hundred years - reborn to continue their bitter vendetta against their sworn enemy, the Catholic church.
In Rome, the college of cardinals assembles to elect a new pope. Yet somewhere within the walls of the Vatican, an unstoppable bomb of terrifying power relentlessly counts down to oblivion. While the minutes tick away, Langdon joins forces with Vittoria Vetra, a beautiful and mysterious Italian scientist, to decipher the labyrinthine trail of ancient symbols that snakes across Rome to the long-forgotten Illuminati lair - a secret refuge wherein lies the only hope for the Vatican.
But with each revelation comes another twist, another turn in the plot, which leaves Langdon and Vetra reeling and at the mercy of a seemingly invisible enemy...
The da Vinci Code
A fascinating and absorbing thriller -- perfect for history buffs, conspiracy nuts, puzzle lovers or anyone who appreciates a great, riveting story.
While in Paris on business, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon receives an urgent late-night phone call: the elderly curator of the Louvre has been murdered inside the museum. Near the body, police have found a baffling cipher. While working to solve the enigmatic riddle, Langdon is stunned to discover it leads to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Da Vinci -- clues visible for all to see -- yet ingeniously disguised by the painter.
Langdon joins forces with a gifted French cryptologist, Sophie Neveu, and learns the late curator was involved in the Priory of Sion -- an actual secret society whose members included Sir Isaac Newton, Botticelli, Victor Hugo, and Da Vinci, among others.
In a breathless race through Paris, London, and beyond, Langdon and Neveu match wits with a faceless powerbroker who seems to anticipate their every move. Unless Langdon and Neveu can decipher the labyrinthine puzzle in time, the Priory's ancient secret -- and an explosive historical truth -- will be lost forever.
The Da Vinci Code heralds the arrival of a new breed of lightning-paced, intelligent thriller utterly unpredictable right up to its stunning conclusion.
864 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
343 people are currently reading
10889 people want to read
About the author
Dan Brown
93 books108k followersDan Brown is the author of numerous #1 bestselling novels, including The Da Vinci Code, which has become one of the best selling novels of all time as well as the subject of intellectual debate among readers and scholars. Brown’s novels are published in 56 languages around the world with over 200 million copies in print.
In 2005, Brown was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by TIME Magazine, whose editors credited him with “keeping the publishing industry afloat; renewed interest in Leonardo da Vinci and early Christian history; spiking tourism to Paris and Rome; a growing membership in secret societies; the ire of Cardinals in Rome; eight books denying the claims of the novel and seven guides to read along with it; a flood of historical thrillers; and a major motion picture franchise.”
The son of a mathematics teacher and a church organist, Brown was raised on a prep school campus where he developed a fascination with the paradoxical interplay between science and religion. These themes eventually formed the backdrop for his books. He is a graduate of Amherst College and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he later returned to teach English before focusing his attention full time to writing. He lives in New England with his yellow lab, Winston.
Brown’s latest novel, Origin, explores two of the fundamental questions of humankind: Where do we come from? Where are we going?
In 2005, Brown was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by TIME Magazine, whose editors credited him with “keeping the publishing industry afloat; renewed interest in Leonardo da Vinci and early Christian history; spiking tourism to Paris and Rome; a growing membership in secret societies; the ire of Cardinals in Rome; eight books denying the claims of the novel and seven guides to read along with it; a flood of historical thrillers; and a major motion picture franchise.”
The son of a mathematics teacher and a church organist, Brown was raised on a prep school campus where he developed a fascination with the paradoxical interplay between science and religion. These themes eventually formed the backdrop for his books. He is a graduate of Amherst College and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he later returned to teach English before focusing his attention full time to writing. He lives in New England with his yellow lab, Winston.
Brown’s latest novel, Origin, explores two of the fundamental questions of humankind: Where do we come from? Where are we going?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 628 reviews
September 1, 2008
I have to say I loved both the books. Robert Langdon is one of the best charecters I have ever read about. I would love to he about him again and again.
Now on to Angels And Demons, this book I read first out of the two and it still rakes as my top favorite book. It combinds that of danger and mystery with cunning puzzes and brain twisting thoughts. When you think something is happening something completly different is realy happening, one of the best books in the world for anyone who likes suspense, fear, and mystery, and a really great book, then I recomend Angels And Demons beyond compare.
The Da Vinci Code was the book I read right after I was done with Angels And Demons, though I liked the other one better. The Da Vinci Codes was one of the best books I have ever read also. To what I belive it answers some questions that it both asked and made you think about. Again alot like the Angels And Demons it made you think about what was happening and what was not happening. I also think again, that for any one who likes suspense, fear, and mind bottling problems and such should read this. I would recomend it as fast as I would Angels And Demons.
Now on to Angels And Demons, this book I read first out of the two and it still rakes as my top favorite book. It combinds that of danger and mystery with cunning puzzes and brain twisting thoughts. When you think something is happening something completly different is realy happening, one of the best books in the world for anyone who likes suspense, fear, and mystery, and a really great book, then I recomend Angels And Demons beyond compare.
The Da Vinci Code was the book I read right after I was done with Angels And Demons, though I liked the other one better. The Da Vinci Codes was one of the best books I have ever read also. To what I belive it answers some questions that it both asked and made you think about. Again alot like the Angels And Demons it made you think about what was happening and what was not happening. I also think again, that for any one who likes suspense, fear, and mind bottling problems and such should read this. I would recomend it as fast as I would Angels And Demons.
March 13, 2008
Gory,and (spoiler alert)--there isn't going to be any solution until all the murders are committed, so you have to sit through all the gore and you know it.
Plus, Dan Brown's characters move through the plot at an unhuman rate...dont' they have to eat or go to the bathroom? :)
Plus, Dan Brown's characters move through the plot at an unhuman rate...dont' they have to eat or go to the bathroom? :)
August 19, 2008
i read these books separately, but i'm reviewing them as one because they are practically the same book. dan brown has found a niche and is clinging for dear life to it. all of the characters are the same: the old, smart guy brutally murdered in the beginning; his beautiful younger relation who is there to create sexual tension with langdon; the other old, decrepit guy in a wheelchair who seems to be a helper but ends up being a villian; and of course the big, hulking assassin who just kills people with a single minded adherance to his religion of choice. dan brown is good at giving facts, but those facts seem to just float on the surface of the story and nothing really seems to mesh. i think his writing skills would be better suited to textbooks with dramatic flair.
what i really hate about him is that he makes some great arguments for christianity, but in the next sentence, it feels like he's patting the entire faith on its head like a small child, which is frustrating to read. and it doesn't help my opinion of him that he touts falsehoods as set in stone truths.
what i really hate about him is that he makes some great arguments for christianity, but in the next sentence, it feels like he's patting the entire faith on its head like a small child, which is frustrating to read. and it doesn't help my opinion of him that he touts falsehoods as set in stone truths.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2019
Personally, I think these two are the best in the Robert Langdon series, at least from the 4 I read (the first 4) with a lot of fun history and trivia. The movies were also pretty decent.
January 12, 2021
I found this book bit boring and most of the time didn't understand what was going on. It's a good read, however but I didn't enjoy it as much as I did with The Da Vinci Code.
This book was so hyped up and maybe I had expected a lot more.
This book was so hyped up and maybe I had expected a lot more.
September 26, 2015
اليوم انهيت قراءة افضل رواية كتبت بحنكة و ذكاء و تشويق , اكثر ما لفت انتباهي قبل قرائتها هو اسم الرواية و من المقصود بها , بدأت بالصفحات الاولى التي اشعرتني بكم تشويقي متزايد لغاية انهاء الرواية ,
اخذني دان براون الى حقبات الطبقة المستنيرة ابتدائا من غاليليو و نرتيتي في عصر حكم الكنيسة الكاثولكية , بذكاء روائي و تشويق غير منقطع , ابحرت في عالم الصراع الازلي بين الدين و العلم , بين الحق و الباطل , احداث قصة مشوقة تنقلت بين العناصر الاربعة لعالم المستنيرين التراب , هواء , نار , و الماء , و الموت في سبيل فكرة او مبدأ نأمن به , مع لعب دور واضح للاعلام في نقل الاحداث و تصوير الاماكن الحقيقية و السراديب السرية القديمة زادت من واقعية المشهد.
تجلى ذكاء دان براون و حنكته بصياغة رواية مشوقة تضمنت الكثير من المعاني و العبر , صراع قديم بي العلم و الدين , و نشوء الطبقة المستنيرة و معاناة العلماء و بذل ارواحهم بهدف تقديم العلم و نشر المعرفة في زمن غيب العقل عن لعب دوره , لقد تعلمت ان العلم و الدين ليسا بمضاضين بل هما داعمان لبعضهما , اذ جاء العلم ليثبت صحة المعجزات الدينية و التنبأت , في حين وضع الدين سلوك و ممارسات العلم في خدمة البشرية , فظهرت الملائكة و الشياطين في تطبيق العلوم المختلفة سواء من خدم البشرية بالعلم او من دمرها و استخدم العلم اداة قوة لبسط السيطرة و افتعال الحروب التي لم تكسب البشرية الي مزيد من الخسائر و الالام , تجلت فكرة الكاتب في اخر الكتاب من ان البشر في بحث دائم عن الحقيقة و معرفة الاجوبة الكثيرة عن أسالة و تفسيرات لما يدور حولهم , كما ان القتل او الدمار ليس هو الحل الافضل دائما , و اما خلق فوضى لابراز الحقيقة فحتما هي الحل الخاسر بالنهاية , فالحقيقة اقوى دوما , اما الخدع و الكذب فيشوبها الكثير من الضعف و الضلال , التوازن في هذا الكون ليس عبثا فوجد النور لكبح الظلام و وجد الحق لضحض الباطل و وجدت الملائكة لطرد الشياطين , اتساق عجيب بين المادة و ضدها ,لم يجد عبثا و لكن وجد من خالق برع في خلقة و كتم بعض اسراره و وهبنا العقل لنتفكر بملكوته و نزداد بايماننا بوجوده , يد التخريب دائما موجودة و قد يكون الظلام دامس و الضعف قد يطول و لكن بالتبصر و الايمان ستشرق شمس الحق بقوة لتنشر السلام , ليس في الدنيا شيء مطلق فكل شيء و له ضده موجود , ببساطة البشر قد يكونو ملائكة او شياطين.
اقتباسات اعجبتني
" الاعلام هي الذراع اليمنى للفوضى"
"ترى احيانا عقولنا ما تتمنى قلوبنا ان يكون صحيحا"
اخذني دان براون الى حقبات الطبقة المستنيرة ابتدائا من غاليليو و نرتيتي في عصر حكم الكنيسة الكاثولكية , بذكاء روائي و تشويق غير منقطع , ابحرت في عالم الصراع الازلي بين الدين و العلم , بين الحق و الباطل , احداث قصة مشوقة تنقلت بين العناصر الاربعة لعالم المستنيرين التراب , هواء , نار , و الماء , و الموت في سبيل فكرة او مبدأ نأمن به , مع لعب دور واضح للاعلام في نقل الاحداث و تصوير الاماكن الحقيقية و السراديب السرية القديمة زادت من واقعية المشهد.
تجلى ذكاء دان براون و حنكته بصياغة رواية مشوقة تضمنت الكثير من المعاني و العبر , صراع قديم بي العلم و الدين , و نشوء الطبقة المستنيرة و معاناة العلماء و بذل ارواحهم بهدف تقديم العلم و نشر المعرفة في زمن غيب العقل عن لعب دوره , لقد تعلمت ان العلم و الدين ليسا بمضاضين بل هما داعمان لبعضهما , اذ جاء العلم ليثبت صحة المعجزات الدينية و التنبأت , في حين وضع الدين سلوك و ممارسات العلم في خدمة البشرية , فظهرت الملائكة و الشياطين في تطبيق العلوم المختلفة سواء من خدم البشرية بالعلم او من دمرها و استخدم العلم اداة قوة لبسط السيطرة و افتعال الحروب التي لم تكسب البشرية الي مزيد من الخسائر و الالام , تجلت فكرة الكاتب في اخر الكتاب من ان البشر في بحث دائم عن الحقيقة و معرفة الاجوبة الكثيرة عن أسالة و تفسيرات لما يدور حولهم , كما ان القتل او الدمار ليس هو الحل الافضل دائما , و اما خلق فوضى لابراز الحقيقة فحتما هي الحل الخاسر بالنهاية , فالحقيقة اقوى دوما , اما الخدع و الكذب فيشوبها الكثير من الضعف و الضلال , التوازن في هذا الكون ليس عبثا فوجد النور لكبح الظلام و وجد الحق لضحض الباطل و وجدت الملائكة لطرد الشياطين , اتساق عجيب بين المادة و ضدها ,لم يجد عبثا و لكن وجد من خالق برع في خلقة و كتم بعض اسراره و وهبنا العقل لنتفكر بملكوته و نزداد بايماننا بوجوده , يد التخريب دائما موجودة و قد يكون الظلام دامس و الضعف قد يطول و لكن بالتبصر و الايمان ستشرق شمس الحق بقوة لتنشر السلام , ليس في الدنيا شيء مطلق فكل شيء و له ضده موجود , ببساطة البشر قد يكونو ملائكة او شياطين.
اقتباسات اعجبتني
" الاعلام هي الذراع اليمنى للفوضى"
"ترى احيانا عقولنا ما تتمنى قلوبنا ان يكون صحيحا"
November 25, 2009
This book (as with his others) is both intoxicating and insulting. I am engaged one minute and annoyed the next. What is undeniable is that Dan Brown has a gift for plot and for weaving history and art into a narrative. What he struggles with is the craft of writing and character development. I know I am supposed to forgive the latter for the sake of a really engaging story, which he can definitely deliver, but it's just easier said than done.
Angels and Demons is built on a very interesting premise (the link between science and divinity) and the historical facts woven into the story are, as always, fascinating. But where this book could have been great, it just sort of descends into the predictable. Dan Brown pays lip service to the idea of God's existence, but then shies away from letting any of the characters actually experience it. Similarly, he backs science, but not it's arguments. He wants to please everyone. He wants to make the ancient accessible and bring a modernist understanding to dark tradition. Make everything right and reconcile everyone. It's a worthy task and the book is a fun ride, but at the end of the day, I walk away from it feeling a little dizzy trying to sync what he's peddling with what I believe.
Angels and Demons is built on a very interesting premise (the link between science and divinity) and the historical facts woven into the story are, as always, fascinating. But where this book could have been great, it just sort of descends into the predictable. Dan Brown pays lip service to the idea of God's existence, but then shies away from letting any of the characters actually experience it. Similarly, he backs science, but not it's arguments. He wants to please everyone. He wants to make the ancient accessible and bring a modernist understanding to dark tradition. Make everything right and reconcile everyone. It's a worthy task and the book is a fun ride, but at the end of the day, I walk away from it feeling a little dizzy trying to sync what he's peddling with what I believe.
August 20, 2013
I read the special illustrated edition of this book and I thought that was really worth it. I had a clear vision of all the buildings in Rome and in my opinion you really could visualize Robert's quest through the different parts of Rome. Dan Brown is just an awesome writer. He keeps up the tension through the whole book. I thought it was really interesting to read how Robert unraveled the mystery step by step. You must be a really good writer to not only write a fictional and fun book, but also a well thought-out book. Everything complemented each other. Dan Brown did his research well. Especially if you have been to Rome this book is really amusing to read, but also if you like to read a book full of mysteries and a book that's quite unique in it's kind, I would certainly recommend this book to you.
May 18, 2008
I read this book after having read DA Vinci. But I liked this one better than the Da Vinci Code. This book according to me was ... more imaginative and had a fantastic story line.
When I read the book, during the introdction of the villain character I knew he was the one. Don't ask me how. I just knew that he was the one. Nevertheless I kept reading. And that was what set this book apart. Usually wen I figure out the villain I lose interest. But not in this one.
The story teller has told a good story in the best way possible :)
What I learned from this book? A lot about the secret societies and their contributions. The bookmost certainly was entertaining and educative.
This book mad me think about people and their motivations. Things that make people do what they do ...
When I read the book, during the introdction of the villain character I knew he was the one. Don't ask me how. I just knew that he was the one. Nevertheless I kept reading. And that was what set this book apart. Usually wen I figure out the villain I lose interest. But not in this one.
The story teller has told a good story in the best way possible :)
What I learned from this book? A lot about the secret societies and their contributions. The bookmost certainly was entertaining and educative.
This book mad me think about people and their motivations. Things that make people do what they do ...
August 18, 2020
The drama and events are excellent, the story is good, but his mockery of religion is not good
April 24, 2009
I loved this book. I saw the commercial for the movie in a theater the other day and ran out to get this book it looked so good. It is the prequel to the Da Vinci Code (Brown's other Robert Langdon book) and follows Langdon to Vatican City where he finds himself involved in a huge plot by the Illuminati, a satanic cult against the Vatican, to take down the church. I don't want to go into too much detail because there is a lot of information that I could give away, but all in all I reccommend this to everyone!
June 20, 2011
I did not read this combined edition of these stories but I have read both and enjoyed both. I found Angels and Demons, the book written before Da Vinci Code to be a very good read, especially if you like history, mystery and travel. I did not like the ending to Angels and Demons, but really I guess it was really just the last few pages. I felt that after all of the mystery that the ending was just too plain, expected.
December 26, 2013
I read this book after having read the Da Vinci Code, and both seemed to very similar in terms of the fast-paced thrilling stories that were set in a background of deception, lies, mystery and involve plentiful of surprise turns and twists. Overall, it was an engaging book, can be a good travel companion.
January 1, 2017
I love Robert Langdon.
July 29, 2017
A great story; I had fun reading it
December 31, 2017
I thought that the Da Vinci code was his best book.🐯👍
October 18, 2019
best book in robert langdon series
March 25, 2019
A solid 4 stars for both of the stories in this omnibus!
June 17, 2020
Il Camerlengo is one of the best written villains.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2022
Big fan. Learnt so much in a really enjoyable way / holy plot twists left right and centre
Read
July 11, 2021loved it. thrilling, edge of seat experience
March 3, 2025
Angels and Demons - What a tangled web Dan has written. Our intro to Robert Langdon started out with a bang. I am addicted to his writing. His narrative makes it feel like you are in on the chase, finding clues, not knowing who to trust adds to the mystery and suspense of it all.
I have read most of his books several times and am rereading them again because they are so good. I remember when he first started writing so I had to see what all the fuss was about and haven't stopped reading since.
The da Vinci Code - A race against time to try to catch a killer but could the killer be closer to home than anyone could guess. Robert Langdon is the man you need to solve the rising puzzle pieces left throughout some beautiful cities around the world. With a conspiracy, a killer, a ton of suspense and a clock that is tcking down Robert has his work cut out for him. This captivating and thrilling tale is fast-paced, action-packed and will have your heart pounding as the puzzle pieces are unravled one layer at a time.
It is an addictive read.
I have read most of his books several times and am rereading them again because they are so good. I remember when he first started writing so I had to see what all the fuss was about and haven't stopped reading since.
The da Vinci Code - A race against time to try to catch a killer but could the killer be closer to home than anyone could guess. Robert Langdon is the man you need to solve the rising puzzle pieces left throughout some beautiful cities around the world. With a conspiracy, a killer, a ton of suspense and a clock that is tcking down Robert has his work cut out for him. This captivating and thrilling tale is fast-paced, action-packed and will have your heart pounding as the puzzle pieces are unravled one layer at a time.
It is an addictive read.
August 8, 2017
This is not a great work of artistic prose, nor do I think that Dan Brown is one of the best writers of our time. What I do think he is, is a good storyteller. This book is written in such a way that does not detract from the fast-paced adventure that occurs throughout these books. This book is more about the enjoying the plot than the writing. And while sometimes the writing was noticeably less than brilliant in some places, I did not feel that my overall enjoyment in the story was diminished. It is written simply but effectively.
While I know that everything that is in this book is not an absolute fact, it is an enjoyable romp through some history that exists around us.
The romantic plot line was at times unnecessary and a little rushed, but it wasn't a major part of the book so I didn't have an issue with it.
While I am not sure it is deliberate, one thing that did not sit particularly well in Angel and Demons was the fact that the assassin was Arab. If you have one Arab character in your book and make him a terrorist.... This isn't a spoiler, you find this out near the beginning of the book. While he is not coming from a place of religious fanaticism I did not find that race was a necessary addition for this kind of character, and the overall lack of diversity was displeasing. Even though this book is a bit older and I doubt that it was entirely intentional it is still problematic.
Keeping in mind that I was born and raised Catholic and had no issues with other parts of the book. Although there were many moments in the story when the author was a kinder to them.
While I know that everything that is in this book is not an absolute fact, it is an enjoyable romp through some history that exists around us.
The romantic plot line was at times unnecessary and a little rushed, but it wasn't a major part of the book so I didn't have an issue with it.
While I am not sure it is deliberate, one thing that did not sit particularly well in Angel and Demons was the fact that the assassin was Arab. If you have one Arab character in your book and make him a terrorist.... This isn't a spoiler, you find this out near the beginning of the book. While he is not coming from a place of religious fanaticism I did not find that race was a necessary addition for this kind of character, and the overall lack of diversity was displeasing. Even though this book is a bit older and I doubt that it was entirely intentional it is still problematic.
Keeping in mind that I was born and raised Catholic and had no issues with other parts of the book. Although there were many moments in the story when the author was a kinder to them.
August 13, 2024
I loved this book! But as always, have complaints and random, general thoughts.
Vittoria is a complex and well put together character. Unfortunate to see that she was demoted to nothing but the protagonist's love interest. She was written as a strong female presence with her intelligence, composure, and overall demeanour. However, not all the comments about her appearance were necessary, and then rereading how the blurb also described her as ‘a beautiful and mysterious Italian scientist’ was another smack to the face. Can’t women be strong leads and not have to be consistently described as attractive? It’s belittling and proves a very objectifying view of how women are valued in society.
The Hassassin overall was a strange character. I wish we knew more about his past rather than his sexual fantasies (I understand why the inferences were added, but there didn’t need to be such recurring mention). Genuine reasoning for this person to have led up to such ideals in giving himself to the brotherhood lacked, which would’ve made the storyline a little more solid.
Robert was stated to ‘still not be convinced’ (377) about a fact he had more than enough evidence to support. I understand this is because two cardinals had died (and the first, he’d misinterpreted the location of the death), but it contradicted his character. He was also surprised at every little thing. ‘Oh my god’, the Diagramma isn’t obvious, ‘oh my god’, there’s a statue he didn’t see, ‘oh my god’, it makes a diamond shape. Surely there’s not enough time to be bewildered by every little thing; especially after the Illuminati was believably confirmed after his previous denial based on pretty solid knowledge, I don’t understand how he can still be surprised by everything. Even at 528, he was still ‘surprised at the revelation’. Like SHUT UP.
When Kohler was revealed to be the apparent Illuminati member, it was like no shit. Kohler, König, leader of CERN. There was something off about him, and the way he used his disability to his own advantage but was also disgusted by it was an interesting and accurate portrayal of the irrational contrast of a humans mind. His motive was strange as it was his parents own blindness over religions’ fault altogether, and it wasn’t what the cardinals outwardly represent. Also, Rochers whole deal was odd. I remember him being mentioned earlier in the book but don’t remember him ever being particularly relevant, so when he was introduced as the supposed hidden Illuminati member within the church, it didn’t feel right. But I did find Kohler humorous in a few parts toward the beginning in his responses, and I liked Robert’s thoughts surrounding Kohler’s corrections.
The whole situation with the helicopter was odd. I loved how the camerlengos very thought processes about him being a pilot and occasionally being able to fly under the popes permission came back. It recurred in a very quick, bittersweet moment that needed no elaboration. I couldn’t help but laugh at what the camerlengo said and how stupid Robert was to just jump in the helicopter like that — and the fact Vittoria also thought he was an idiot was even more funny. I can’t honestly recount what the hell happened in the helicopter considering shit was going up and thoughts were everywhere and perhaps that’s how it’s meant to be interpreted; but from what I understood, Carlos abandoned Robert with the active bomb. He wasn’t angry? He didn’t bring it up immediately? The first thing he does is go kiss Vittoria?
439, when Olivetti’s death is confirmed in narration. I really would’ve liked to hear the specifics of this — of course, we know the Hassassin is a trained killer, but Olivetti is trained also. Also, BRIEFLY (479), Robert questions Olivetti as the infiltrated traitor. I understand that he’s panicked and injured and dazed and tired and whatever, but seriously? Seemed like a weird mention; and then Olivetti wasn’t mentioned in dialogue again. Hurt my soul even though I didn’t really like the character.
The camerlengo was my favourite the second he was described. He’s portrayed as smart and composed with a certain air of charisma and authority, and even in the end of the story when his character had been completed stripped apart, I still found him an intriguing character. His ideals were admirable in a weird way? He portrayed himself like a god, spoke hopefully and (decently) logically, and everything about him was interesting. I don’t believe his reasonings were enough, although clearly he was not too sane. Religion, power, trauma? I didn’t entirely understand. His goals were good, but his ethics were out the window, but the reasoning for his lack of morals didn’t seem like enough. Everything surrounding his actions, although deranged, was described as very divine and ethereal. Even his death. I absolutely love how he was written.
I didn’t, however, like the twist that the pope had a son and that it was Carlos. Carlos is clearly not sane, and in an act of distress and felt betrayal, kills the pope. Because the pope fathered a child. That he didn’t know was him. It over complicated everything and didn’t seem like enough of a motive. Stupid, random, irrelevant. I didn’t like that twist.
There was also a supposed inconsistency (507) with the camerlengo being overruled. He is law until a new pope is elected, so I don’t understand why everyone was so lax about that fact?
Also, I understand the ending is meant to be lighthearted, but seriously? Come on.
My favourite part was probably the Camerlengo’s death. It was so beautifully written. And it became obvious that he was going to die, but it was still described in such a divine way. Then again, any part with Carlos was beautiful. Specifically from page 214 onward (esp. 215) with his past, and 598 onward (esp. 605) for his death.
This book was clearly written by someone pretty knowledgeable about science, history, and literature. I’d find myself putting the book aside and looking into things every now and again out of pure interest. The wording was ‘delicate’, it flowed beautifully and the dialogue and quotes were nothing short of intriguing. There were a few humorous thoughts surrounding some of the dialogue (especially with Kohler) that I enjoyed but it was all very thought provoking and I appreciate the moral dilemma of science vs religion recurring casually throughout.
Fav Pages: 39, 43, 45, 52, 71, 85, 107, 132 - 135, 163, 171, 183, 186, 197, 201 - 202, 215, 235, 265, 271, 310, 380, 411, 419 - 425, 436, 464, 501, 531, 543, 546, 574, 583, 605
Vittoria is a complex and well put together character. Unfortunate to see that she was demoted to nothing but the protagonist's love interest. She was written as a strong female presence with her intelligence, composure, and overall demeanour. However, not all the comments about her appearance were necessary, and then rereading how the blurb also described her as ‘a beautiful and mysterious Italian scientist’ was another smack to the face. Can’t women be strong leads and not have to be consistently described as attractive? It’s belittling and proves a very objectifying view of how women are valued in society.
The Hassassin overall was a strange character. I wish we knew more about his past rather than his sexual fantasies (I understand why the inferences were added, but there didn’t need to be such recurring mention). Genuine reasoning for this person to have led up to such ideals in giving himself to the brotherhood lacked, which would’ve made the storyline a little more solid.
Robert was stated to ‘still not be convinced’ (377) about a fact he had more than enough evidence to support. I understand this is because two cardinals had died (and the first, he’d misinterpreted the location of the death), but it contradicted his character. He was also surprised at every little thing. ‘Oh my god’, the Diagramma isn’t obvious, ‘oh my god’, there’s a statue he didn’t see, ‘oh my god’, it makes a diamond shape. Surely there’s not enough time to be bewildered by every little thing; especially after the Illuminati was believably confirmed after his previous denial based on pretty solid knowledge, I don’t understand how he can still be surprised by everything. Even at 528, he was still ‘surprised at the revelation’. Like SHUT UP.
When Kohler was revealed to be the apparent Illuminati member, it was like no shit. Kohler, König, leader of CERN. There was something off about him, and the way he used his disability to his own advantage but was also disgusted by it was an interesting and accurate portrayal of the irrational contrast of a humans mind. His motive was strange as it was his parents own blindness over religions’ fault altogether, and it wasn’t what the cardinals outwardly represent. Also, Rochers whole deal was odd. I remember him being mentioned earlier in the book but don’t remember him ever being particularly relevant, so when he was introduced as the supposed hidden Illuminati member within the church, it didn’t feel right. But I did find Kohler humorous in a few parts toward the beginning in his responses, and I liked Robert’s thoughts surrounding Kohler’s corrections.
The whole situation with the helicopter was odd. I loved how the camerlengos very thought processes about him being a pilot and occasionally being able to fly under the popes permission came back. It recurred in a very quick, bittersweet moment that needed no elaboration. I couldn’t help but laugh at what the camerlengo said and how stupid Robert was to just jump in the helicopter like that — and the fact Vittoria also thought he was an idiot was even more funny. I can’t honestly recount what the hell happened in the helicopter considering shit was going up and thoughts were everywhere and perhaps that’s how it’s meant to be interpreted; but from what I understood, Carlos abandoned Robert with the active bomb. He wasn’t angry? He didn’t bring it up immediately? The first thing he does is go kiss Vittoria?
439, when Olivetti’s death is confirmed in narration. I really would’ve liked to hear the specifics of this — of course, we know the Hassassin is a trained killer, but Olivetti is trained also. Also, BRIEFLY (479), Robert questions Olivetti as the infiltrated traitor. I understand that he’s panicked and injured and dazed and tired and whatever, but seriously? Seemed like a weird mention; and then Olivetti wasn’t mentioned in dialogue again. Hurt my soul even though I didn’t really like the character.
The camerlengo was my favourite the second he was described. He’s portrayed as smart and composed with a certain air of charisma and authority, and even in the end of the story when his character had been completed stripped apart, I still found him an intriguing character. His ideals were admirable in a weird way? He portrayed himself like a god, spoke hopefully and (decently) logically, and everything about him was interesting. I don’t believe his reasonings were enough, although clearly he was not too sane. Religion, power, trauma? I didn’t entirely understand. His goals were good, but his ethics were out the window, but the reasoning for his lack of morals didn’t seem like enough. Everything surrounding his actions, although deranged, was described as very divine and ethereal. Even his death. I absolutely love how he was written.
I didn’t, however, like the twist that the pope had a son and that it was Carlos. Carlos is clearly not sane, and in an act of distress and felt betrayal, kills the pope. Because the pope fathered a child. That he didn’t know was him. It over complicated everything and didn’t seem like enough of a motive. Stupid, random, irrelevant. I didn’t like that twist.
There was also a supposed inconsistency (507) with the camerlengo being overruled. He is law until a new pope is elected, so I don’t understand why everyone was so lax about that fact?
Also, I understand the ending is meant to be lighthearted, but seriously? Come on.
My favourite part was probably the Camerlengo’s death. It was so beautifully written. And it became obvious that he was going to die, but it was still described in such a divine way. Then again, any part with Carlos was beautiful. Specifically from page 214 onward (esp. 215) with his past, and 598 onward (esp. 605) for his death.
This book was clearly written by someone pretty knowledgeable about science, history, and literature. I’d find myself putting the book aside and looking into things every now and again out of pure interest. The wording was ‘delicate’, it flowed beautifully and the dialogue and quotes were nothing short of intriguing. There were a few humorous thoughts surrounding some of the dialogue (especially with Kohler) that I enjoyed but it was all very thought provoking and I appreciate the moral dilemma of science vs religion recurring casually throughout.
Fav Pages: 39, 43, 45, 52, 71, 85, 107, 132 - 135, 163, 171, 183, 186, 197, 201 - 202, 215, 235, 265, 271, 310, 380, 411, 419 - 425, 436, 464, 501, 531, 543, 546, 574, 583, 605
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2016
These books are fun, quick reads. It's easy to enjoy them, with or without giving them your full attention.
I was a little bummed that Robert Langdon had such predictable relationships with the women who were thrown into his path by circumstance...
And I also found the plots a little bit too predictable. A writer friend of mine told me that novelists often try to include only the details that will be relevant later in the plot. Including superfluous information is frowned upon. Dan Brown succeeded at this, having pretty much no fluff. Unfortunately, the lack of fluff made everything more predictable. If the back doors of a church were described as having a particular purpose, then I knew that somebody would find those doors useful later on. If Brown mentioned a historical detail, it would inevitably be drawn upon later on. I don't think this is a bad way to write, but I think it is out of place in the mystery genre. If you don't have any red herrings, then where's the mystery? I'm not saying that he has to go all out, including whole side-narratives like Victor Hugo does, but since there's such a rich amount of historical background to these books, it wouldn't hurt for some of it to just be enjoyable fluff.
I was a little bummed that Robert Langdon had such predictable relationships with the women who were thrown into his path by circumstance...
And I also found the plots a little bit too predictable. A writer friend of mine told me that novelists often try to include only the details that will be relevant later in the plot. Including superfluous information is frowned upon. Dan Brown succeeded at this, having pretty much no fluff. Unfortunately, the lack of fluff made everything more predictable. If the back doors of a church were described as having a particular purpose, then I knew that somebody would find those doors useful later on. If Brown mentioned a historical detail, it would inevitably be drawn upon later on. I don't think this is a bad way to write, but I think it is out of place in the mystery genre. If you don't have any red herrings, then where's the mystery? I'm not saying that he has to go all out, including whole side-narratives like Victor Hugo does, but since there's such a rich amount of historical background to these books, it wouldn't hurt for some of it to just be enjoyable fluff.
April 7, 2013
هَذا الكتَاب يُظهِرُ عَبقريةَ " دان " فعلاً ! ، رُغَم ما قَد واجهتهُ مِن صعوبةٍ فِي تَخيِّل بَعض المواقِف ، إلا أنَّ هَذا الكتَاب حَقَّاً رَائع ، أرَاهُ أفضَل مِن " شِفرة دافنشي " بِكثِير ! ، " روبرت " لَم أُحبَّ شَخصيتَهُ كثِيراً إلَّا فِي آخَر الرواية ، رُغَم إعجَابِي بذكَائِهِ المُتَّقَد !، أمّا " فيتّوريا " فَهِي عشِقي الأبدي ! ، مِثَال رائع للفتَاة القَوية ، وَ التِي تُحَاولُ أن تتماسكَ قَدر المستطَاع لَأن لا تُبيَّنَ ضَعفهَا للذِين حَولهَا ، مَا أحزننِي شَكّي بِـ " كوهَلر " وَ موتِهِ ، رُغَم إنني قَد كنتُ أكرههُ وَ لا أحسُ تِجاهَهُ بِأيّ شَفقة ! ، إلَّا أن جَاء السكرتير البابوي ، وَ جعلنِي أكرههُ أكثَر ، كنتُ أُحسُ بِشيءٍ فِي دَاخِلي فَلا يُمكنُ لأحدهِم أن يكونَ بِكل هَذهِ المثَالية ! وَ فِي النِّهَاية إنَّهَا النَّهَاية الصَّادِمة التِي يتَمتَعُ بِهَا " دَان " وَ هَذا الكتَاب جَعلنِي أُفكِر ، هَل فَعلاً تُوجَد من وراءِ أحداثٍ كثِيرةٍ أحَداثٌ أعمق وَ أعمق ؟ وَ هل المادة المُضَادة حَقيقيةٌ وَ قَد اُختُرِعت ؟ ، وَ هَل " دان " عَالمٌ فِيزيائيٌ أم عَالِم رِموز أم كاتِب ؟ وَ هل كنيسةُ التَنّورِ هِي نَفسُهَا التِي ذُكِرت فِي الرواية ؟ حَقَّاً تَدورُ فِي ذهنِي تَساؤلات عَديدة ، ولكن أغلبُهَا يُثبتُ عَبقريَّة " دان " !
December 17, 2017
The Da Vinci Code:
The DaVinci Code rocked the world when it came out. Just by chance, I had finished "Holy Blood Holy Grail" when I picked up Dan Brown's book- so I was well prepared for the plot twists and turns. Controversial as well as compelling, it leads to many long talks by the water cooler at work. Dan Brown was the first to bring many of the legends of the family of Jesus to today's culture and gives you food for thought. Entertaining, thought-provoking as well as a darn good read- the DaVinci Code opened the doorway to think about the many possibilities of interpretation of things we may not have ever questioned.
Angels & Demons:
No one can marry action, adventure and religion like Dan Brown. An intellectual thriller, once you start be prepared to read until you are finished. Not only is his description of Rome better than any travelog, you will get a whopper of a Renaissance education in both art history and the church. Basic a book about the war between science and blind religious belief, Brown is able to keep your attention without preaching or judging. A great entertaining read all the way around.
The DaVinci Code rocked the world when it came out. Just by chance, I had finished "Holy Blood Holy Grail" when I picked up Dan Brown's book- so I was well prepared for the plot twists and turns. Controversial as well as compelling, it leads to many long talks by the water cooler at work. Dan Brown was the first to bring many of the legends of the family of Jesus to today's culture and gives you food for thought. Entertaining, thought-provoking as well as a darn good read- the DaVinci Code opened the doorway to think about the many possibilities of interpretation of things we may not have ever questioned.
Angels & Demons:
No one can marry action, adventure and religion like Dan Brown. An intellectual thriller, once you start be prepared to read until you are finished. Not only is his description of Rome better than any travelog, you will get a whopper of a Renaissance education in both art history and the church. Basic a book about the war between science and blind religious belief, Brown is able to keep your attention without preaching or judging. A great entertaining read all the way around.
May 30, 2017
I found Angels and Demons to be an interesting, fact-filled adventure. Robert Langdon, a Harvard professor, finds himself pulled into the mysterious murder of a famous CERN scientist who was -according to his daughter, Vittoria- on the track to using science to prove God's existence through the creation of antimatter. Suspecting the Illuminati is behind this, Langdon is soon tripping over another murder, but this time- the Pope himself. Brown allows you to follow Langdon and Vittoria as they're thrown and twisted between choosing who to trust and who to believe. Relationships they've had for their whole lives are torn, and they discover that perhaps something is not always as it seems.
I enjoyed Brown's continuation of Langdon's travels, but I am biased because I love all of Dan Brown's writing. The fluid plot is complimented by historic settings and spiced with interesting facts that keep the reader interested. My only critique is the cliché nature of the characters- why must there be a romance in every story? Why does Langdon come to the rescue of the woman in each book?
I enjoyed Brown's continuation of Langdon's travels, but I am biased because I love all of Dan Brown's writing. The fluid plot is complimented by historic settings and spiced with interesting facts that keep the reader interested. My only critique is the cliché nature of the characters- why must there be a romance in every story? Why does Langdon come to the rescue of the woman in each book?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2016
3/5 stars. Hmm...the Robert Langdon series. Like many other readers, I read 'The Da Vinci Code' first, then 'Angels and Demons'. I enjoyed them both, actually thinking there was little to choose between them in terms of plot and excitement. I remember thinking though, "He's written these to be made into movies", rather than, "Whoa, what wonderful novels." And I've looked through a few reviews of 'The Lost Symbol'...am I the only one who HATED it? It took me about six weeks to read, I probably fell asleep about six times whilst reading it (and I NEVER fall asleep reading) and it just all felt like build-up to something that I never really believed was going to warrant even a fraction of such a build-up. I've read all five of the Dan Brown books now, and I can honestly say I would think VERY hard about reading another after 'The Lost Symbol'. The others somewhat save him, though, and that's why I gave a three-star overall rating to the Robert Langdon series.
June 10, 2015
Ok so this is amazing. You get two really good books in one. The fast pace adventures of Robert Langdon are hard to put down. Dan Brown grabs your attention and doesn't let go. I didn't think I could read that fast through a book, but after every chapter I needed to know more, NEEDED! I doubt there isn't a person on this site that hasn't read this book but I still wont give it away, all I will say is the movies are great but it's just the small things that were changed for the viewing audience that make the differences, such as Teabing is chubby in the book and he is played by skinny Sir Ian McKellian, Love Ian but that is what I'm talking about, little things, people don't like a chubby person in their movies. There, I don't think I gave away too much.
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