The Alexandria Link

A Novel

By: Steve Berry

Narrated by: Scott Brick

Length: 17 hrs and 20 mins

Publisher's summary

Cotton Malone retired from the high-risk world of elite operatives for the U.S. State Department to lead the low-key life of a rare-book dealer. But his quiet existence is shattered when he receives an anonymous e-mail: " You have something I want. You're the only person on earth who knows where to find it. If I don't hear from you, you will be childless." His horrified ex-wife confirms that their teenage son has been kidnapped. When Malone's bookshop is burned to the ground, it becomes clear that those responsible will stop at nothing to get what they want: the lost library of Alexandria.

A cradle of historical, philosophical, literary, scientific, and religious ideas, the ancient library of Alexandria was unparalleled in the world. But 1,500 years ago, it vanished into the mists of myth and legend.

Now a cartel of wealthy international moguls is desperate to breach the library's hallowed halls, and only Malone possesses the information they need to succeed.

Pursued by a lethal mercenary, Malone crosses the globe in search of answers. His quest will lead him to England and Portugal, to the highest levels of the American government, and to a shattering outcome that will have worldwide repercussions.

©2007 Steve Berry (P)2007 Random House Inc.

Critic reviews

"Berry [makes] intriguing use of ancient history, and the action certainly zooms along." (Booklist)

Great Read

Really good storyline, loved the mixture of real and fiction . . .some super twists

Good story and plot

What did you love best about The Alexandria Link?

I love the very idea of a plot that touches on such a great marvel as the mythical Library of Alexandria.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Alexandria Link?

Intelligent discussion and contrasts about discrepancies found in biblical scripture and the potential geo-political consequences that could result if such discrepancies were ever to invalidate the Bible as we have come to accept it today.

Did Scott Brick do a good job differentiating all the characters? How?

Relatively good.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Jason Borne meets Herodotus

Any additional comments?

The voice talent was over dramatic, at times his entonation and style distracted me from concentrating in the story being narrated. I was also dissapointed when at one point, one of the characters grabs a revolver and two magazines for it -- not every writter has to be a firearms expert but a bit of resarch goes a long way to maintain credibility.

Great read

Great book. Read this before, this time listened to it. Steve Berry is one of my favorite authors. Narrator was very good, occasionally had to rewind to find who wad actually speaking, but for the most part, he was great at switching voices.

Outstanding

I’m 63 years old and new to audible as a result of a Christmas present subscription from my son. I stumbled upon Steve Berry and his protagonist Cotton Malone. I’m now seven books into the series and it’s become an obsession to find time to listen! I only wish I started earlier. Mr Berry’s stories are sooo well written an researched! As much as I can’t wait to see what happens next, I know before long I’ll finish the series and will be disappointed with whatever I download next. Thank you Steve Berry!
MFF

A really good thriller

I recently finished The Templar Legacy (TTL) in book form and was delighted to find this book by the same author--it was great! The author did a terrific job of juggling the different story lines in an orderly fashion that kept you wanting to read faster! You revisit characters from TTL as they continue to evolve but it's definitely a stand alone book. His ability to suspend reality is so good I just know I am going to be able to go visit the Alexandria Library sometime. Scott Brick reads clearly so that you have no trouble keeping track of which person is talking. He would definitely influence me to choose a book if he is reading.

Love/Hate

Great historical fiction story, I love the Cotton Malone character but hate his ex wife and I think that makes the story line work. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series

This was a good one!

I really dig Berry's style. I like how he blends enough real history to cause you to look things up and open you mind just a bit. Well done sir!

Engaging and fun!

Cotton Malone is an interesting character, I hope all of the books continue to entertain, and keep up the pace.

Fiction with some real information.

Would you listen to The Alexandria Link again? Why?

I would listen to The Alexandria Link again for the reason that i might have miss something in the first reading.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

The plot kept me in my seat by all the twist and turns.

Second in the Cotton Malone series

Lots of detail. Lots of intrigue.

Great performance by the narrator. Looking forward to book three.