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| Home > iLife > Review: "Angels and Demons" by Dan Brown |
| Review: "Angels and Demons" by Dan Brown | | Date Created: Nov 22, 2004, 04:13 PM |
Unbeknownst to many, this is the Prequel to The DaVinci Code. **** Stars.
As I mentioned in an earlier review, I was first introduced to the character of Robert Langdon, as I am sure a whole load of folks were, through the best-selling, captivating novel, "The DaVinci Code". While reading that novel, and realizing that it was a piece of fiction, it dawned on me that it felt as if Robert Langdon had some sort of previous adventure. When I looked around to find the answer, I was right.
In this prequel to "The DaVinci Code", we are properly introduced to the lead character that would one day follow that Mona Lisa smile into the depths of the search for the Holy Grail. In "Angels and Demons", ( not quite the appropriate title for this book, in my opinion), Langdon is called upon to help the Vatican solve a mystery that is killing off the full slate of potential Popes-to be. Clues are left behind after each murder, that only he, and his voluptuous cohort Sophia (or was that Rachel? Both female leads in his books seem somewhat interchangeable), can solve. The clues lead through a fascinating behind the throne chase through the Vatican, as well as through several important European landmarks, as Langdon furiously tries to solve the mystery before the next Papal Candidate is horrifically murdered.
The suspense is high, the action is thrilling. Moreso, infact, than in "The DaVinci Code". Whereas the latter book spends a great deal of time trying to prove the author's theories about the origins of Christ, "Angels and Demons" is almost entirely action. We learn about a secret cult, whose mission it is to ensure the deeds are carried out, for the sake of proving a point about religion. The speech given by a reporter toward the end of the novel is classic. It provides insight not only to the feelings of the characters, but also of the author himself.
In many ways, I found this book far more engaging and entertaining than "The DaVinci Code", but it is the latter adventure that caught the imagination of the public, and which will be made into a motion picture first. I understand Dan Brown is writing a sequel, which I am eagerly looking forward to. Robert Langdon is one of the most interesting anti-heroes since Indiana Jones.
Gripping action, interesting subplot, fascinating historical information woven within. **** Stars.
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