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)

Decent Story - Terrible Narrator

The story is entertaining enough, but the narrator is absolutely awful. I can't understand why he keeps getting hired to read books. I would have gone with 4 stars if not for that.

Newer Cotton Malone books are better

Good subject matter, but tedious and somewhat flimsy. Great narration by Scott Brick. Berry's later books that weave history with fiction are better.

Good story, bad narration

The narrator's style was so distracting that it limited my enjoyment of the story. will not be purchasing any more if it is the same narrator.

Interesting "historical" fiction

It's OK, but no Baldacci. Some good "action" scenes, but could have been edited down a little more.

Cotton Malone returns

This is the second in the Cotton Malone series. We get action and more action pretty much from page one. Cotton's son has been kidnapped and now, he and his ex-wife need to work together to get him back. But that's only the beginning as they race across europe and the middle east trying to solve an ancient puzzle that could bring the entire world to war. Who can be trusted?

If you enjoy the writing style of James Rollins, you will enjoy this. Very similar, but with more emphasis on history than cutting edge science. Very enjoyable. Recommended.

Historical based novel

Loved the story, characters and narrator. Will listen to the other books with these characters.

good read

lots of history is presented, interesting plot, well developed characters. the section at the end where the historical facts are described vs fiction was fascinating. I will go back to sections mentioned to be a more informed reader. will add even more to the historical aspect. good book.

Another Great Cotton Malone Story

As always Scott Brick was great as narrator. The story is unique, exciting and one of the best in the Cotton Malone series. Love the discussion with Steve Berry at end explaining fact from fiction.

Outstanding

A totally plausible and fascinating story concept. It kept my attention throughout. The weaving of three groups of characters operating simultaneously and independently help weave a tightly designed plot with a narrative that flows at a natural yet fast pace.

Steve Berry does it again

Would you consider the audio edition of The Alexandria Link to be better than the print version?

i preferred the audio version because i didn't have to put it down. the story was so intriguing i found myself listening almost non-stop to the end!

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

the suspense of finding the library and the characters was amazing. Steve Berry did i great job giving enough detail to keep you hooked, but not enough to

Have you listened to any of Scott Brick’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

i personally love to listen to Scott Brick. he reads well, the speed and inflection helps the story along. i am glad he does the remainder of the series.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

a few points made me laugh. on the whole the story made me think a lot about conspiracy theories and the main-stream histories we are all taught. Steve Berry did a wonderful job intertwining history and current events.