The Zero Game

By: Brad Meltzer

Narrated by: Scott Brick

Length: 12 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler are playing a mysterious game. It's a game almost no one knows about: not their friends, not their coworkers, and certainly not their bosses, who are some of the most powerful senators and congressmen on Capitol Hill.

It's a game that has everything: risk, reward, mystery, and the thrill of knowing that, just by being invited to play, you've confirmed your status as a true power broker in Washington.

But as Matthew and Harris quickly discover, the Zero Game is hiding a secret so explosive that it will shake Washington to its core. And when someone close to them winds up dead, Harris and Matthew realize this game is far more sinister than they ever imagined. As the bull's-eye turns their way, it's clear they're about to become the game's next victims.

In a frenetic chase from the secret tunnels under the Capitol to an abandoned gold mine halfway across the country, the two friends realize they're no longer players in the game; they're pawns. On the run, they turn to the only person they can trust: a 16-year-old Senate page who can move around the Capitol undetected. As a ruthless killer creeps closer, this idealistic young page not only holds the key to their safety, but is the one person who can redeem them in the process.

Packed with high-octane suspense and heart-pounding action, The Zero Game is Brad Meltzer at his supercharged best.

©2004 Forty-Four Steps, Inc. (P)2004 Time Warner AudioBooks, a division of the Time Warner Book Group

Critic reviews

"Packed with plenty of backroom D.C. ambience and lots of action, the novel also boasts improved plotting and character development since Meltzer's last high-concept best seller." (Booklist)

Another great book by Brad

Enjoyed this book and look forward to more of his, I'll be recommending it to my friends. The focus of the book is unique, moves quickly, and as usual, the author delivers twist and turns along the way with an unexpected ending. I also enjoy the legal insight into our justice system and games that are, or could be, played.

The Zero Game

Great Story. Brad Meltzer is a genius. Scott Brick truly brings the characters to life.

Great political novel

Too often political novels are based in the White House, but this one is written to tell the interior workings of the legislative branch. The first part of the book shocks the reader, and then takes off on a fast paced and amazing adventure. I found this book to be truly enjoyable with appeal not only to political devotees but to any one who enjoys a good fast paced novel.

Everything a good audio book should be

Generally fast paced, interesting plot shifts, good character development and an insider's knowledge of congressional politics makes this an exciting read. A mid-course shift in the first person narrative is a new one to me!

Great read!

This was a great fun to read. Loved the facts of DC along with the fiction.

Wow! What a ride!

If you are a Brad Meltzer fan, this book does not disappoint. The ending was incredible!

Good Book

Story has a weird transition but after that, pretty easy listen. Not a repeat book but don’t feel like I wasted my time listening to it.

Got a long drive? A weekend project? This one will keep you engaged enough to pass time but not so much you have to stop what you’re doing to listen intensely

Good story that had twists and turns!

I enjoyed reading Zero Game and trying to figure out the end of the story.

Publisher Summary misleading

Excellent and well read. The publisher summary misleads you and shows that whom ever wrote the summary has not listened or read book. Tend to drag in spots and appears that it could have been much shorter. Many times a ten minute decription could be done in three and been just as effective. Think that the abridged version is probably the best bet.

Good Read

The internet is conspiring to keep me from writing this summary:

Fun reading story with a twist at the end. This was my first Meltzer, I'll read another.

There...I've done it...after three tries.