The Codex

By: Douglas Preston

Narrated by: Scott Sowers

Length: 6 hrs and 35 mins

Publisher's summary

The bestselling coauthor of such thrillers as Relic and The Cabinet of Curiosities, Douglas Preston now spins an unforgettable tale of greed, adventure, and betrayal in The Codex.

"Greetings from the dead," declares Maxwell Broadbent on the videotape he left behind after his mysterious disappearance. A notorious treasure hunter and tomb robber, Broadbent accumulated over a half a billion dollars' worth of priceless art, gems, and artifacts before vanishing—along with his entire collection—from his mansion in New Mexico.

At first, robbery is suspected, but the truth proves far stranger: As a final challenge to his three sons, Broadbent has buried himself and his treasure somewhere in the world, hidden away like an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. If the sons wish to claim their fabulous inheritance, they must find their father's carefully concealed tomb.

The race is on, but the three brothers are not the only ones competing for the treasure. This secret is so astounding it cannot be kept quiet for long. With half a billion dollars at stake, as well as an ancient Mayan codex that may hold a cure for cancer and other deadly diseases, others soon join the hunt—and some of them will stop at nothing to claim the grave goods.

©2004 Splendide Mendax, Inc. (P)2004 Audio Renaissance, a division of Holtzbrinck Publishers, LLC.

Critic reviews

“Three sons are searching for their dying father who has vanished into the Central American jungle with the art and artifacts of a lifetime of collecting...cover to cover adventure...moves like a tropical thunderstorm.” —Barbara D'Amato, Mary Higgins Clark Award Winner

“The Codex is an archaeological thriller at its very best, fast and fascinating. If you like The Da Vinci Code, you'll really love The Codex.” —Michael and Kathleen Gear, USA TODAY bestselling authors of the People series

Excellent Mystery!

Sometimes I just want to be entertained. This book fit that bill perfectly. I would love to see it made into a movie.

Good fun

This Indian Jones type story was fun, I stumbled across the main character Tom Broadbent in a subsequent novel (Tyrannasaur Canyon). I found his backstory as told in this book compelling. The brothers are an interesting dynamic. I found the story interesting, if at times predictable. A fun read all around.

Leaking character development

Good story, but that's what it seemed like was a story--not a book. It lacked good character development for the brothers and even the girl... Seemed like a good outline for a book.

This was great read.

I have greatly enjoyed all of Douglas Prestons’s books, I believe that The Codex is my favorite followed closely by Tyrannosaur Canyon. Both are five star books.

Short and simple

The story is short with a simple plot. The narrator is good. If you need a quick listen this is a fine choice.

Excellent descriptive narrative, so-so thriller

I'd rate it 3.5. The novel is well-written and filled with details that evoke the Honduras location. It makes for a vivid read, but I'm sure it could bog down for some readers. As for the mystery, I did not find too many surprises; but, the story remained relatively compelling. I was drawn mostly into the character of Tom, more than the other 2 brothers. The villain was almost too villainous, a little over the top. The best character is Borabay ... I'll let your imagination take it from here.

Great listen! worth the time...author doesn't fail

Once again this author shows his capabilities and talent. well worth the time for listening.

great

it was a great adventure. The story flowed nicely. Very exciting at the end of the story.

Narration

The book was ok. I think the narrater made it sound a little too hoaky.

Maya Codex

Written by one of my favorite authors.......about my favorite ancient culture.....The Mayas!!.... Interestingly good reading.