Secret of the Seventh Son

What's the equivalent of a page turner in audioland...an ear burner? This one's hard to turn off, you want to listen to it in big gulps, so clear off your calendar for a 18 mile walk or a weekend cleaning frenzy. Author has a really unique premise, the core creative idea that drives the story is novel and ambitious. So in terms of plot, and unique slant I'd give this 5 stars. But I gotta knock it down a bit for very stock characters, the protagonist is cliche, the supporting cast...ditto. Don't let that stop you from listening though, still great entertainment and I'm absolutely on to the next one!

I've never read anything by Glen Cooper before, and was a little unsure of whether or not I would like the Seventh Son... but I loved it! The characters were great and the plot was unbelievable - yet just crazy enough to believe... maybe. I almost stopped reading when Area 51 and UFOs were mentioned (I can't stand alien stories), but once I realized what was really going on, I'm so glad I didn't. Each chapter is more and more intriguing. The characters have depth and are relatable. The main character, FBI Agent Will Piper, starts out apathetic and boorish, but then transforms as he hunts for the Doomsday Killer. It is easy to see why he was at one time considered a top serial killer profiler. The transitions from one time period to another (8th century, 1940s, 2000s, etc.) are surprisingly easy to keep up with and kept me interested. It is easy to get caught up in the action. This could easily become a box-office smash!

This first book in the two-book series following the flawed Will Piper is wonderfully done. The story is well developed, believable and simply an enjoyable listen. In the genre of Dan Brown... you can read either book first and you will find it completely understandable and enjoyable... tying the two together makes it remarkable.

Great book ! Glenn thanks for the pleasure that you gave me and the time you took to tell a great story ! The narrator was on point he didn't take over the story just told it as if he were talking to me .

Entertaining, light listen. Seriously frivolous premise, stretched thin, but nevertheless holds it's own in the whole arcane ancient texts, mysticism genre.

The biggest flaw is the main character, who is a complete stereotypical jerk. Puzzling choice by the author, since this guy is so annoying he becomes distracting at times.

Wish I could give it 3 1/2 stars.

I read a lot of mystery thrillers and most, while good, usually follow a fairly formulaic pattern. This book pretty much does the same thing, however adds the unique twist of jumping in and out of time periods to explain the story. I LOVED it! If Ken Follett and Michael Connelly collaborated this would be the result. I enjoyed and felt for each character, due in large part to the excellent narration. I've never heard Mark Boyett, but will look to see what other works he's read. He did a superb job with voice changes, even the females, and put a lot of feeling into each character. Some have commented on the characters being a bit stereotypical.... Stereotypes are usually stereotypes for a reason... If you have ever known any cops, then you have known some just like Will. I'd say Glenn Cooper nailed it!
Definitely worth the credit/cost. Tight plot, Very interesting/different storyline, Solid characters, Mixed up the pace and action successfully...kept my interest all the way through. 5 Stars and I will buy another Glenn Cooper book. (This was my first:)

What a surprise! I happened upon this book by chance and I'm so glad I did. I totally appreciate a main character who is flawed---much more interesting than a typical strong do-gooder. And his love interest is also unusual---a real woman instead of another typically young and gorgeous woman who even though she is young and gorgeous, has no boyfriend and is lonely. Nancy is a slightly overweight Jewish woman who is smart, clever and strong.
And the flasbacks to the past were fascinating and the story evolved so beautifully as we meet all the characters and the situation that I won't spoil for those who haven't listened to this terrific book.
Speaking of listening, I thought the narrator, Mark Boyett, was excellent.
Yes, I know, maybe I had to suspend my disbelief just a tad, but that really didn't matter. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.

The best secret is when you find a new author that is interesting, clever, out of the box, and has real skill. I hurried through this one so I could get his next book. (It continues the theme, listen to this first.)

This book exceeded my expectations and I grew to like it more as I progressed through it. The three time periods covered was a bit confusing at first but started to make more sense as the listening continued. Most readers will probably put it all together before the mystery is definitively revealed near the end of the book. And when they do, they will likely let out an Edith Bunker-like sigh of understanding. The story and characters were good and the narration was excellent. A bargain at the sale price.

I found this book to be filled with alot of great twists and turn and keeps you guessing till the very end. I''ll listen to it again. Its worth the time!!