The Lost Symbol

By: Dan Brown

Narrated by: Paul Michael

Length: 6 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

Six years in the writing, The Lost Symbol is Dan Brown's extraordinary sequel to his internationally best-selling Robert Langdon thrillers Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code.

Nothing is ever what it first appears in a Dan Brown novel. Set over a breathtaking 12-hour time span, the book's narrative takes the listener on an exhilarating journey through a masterful and unexpected landscape as Professor of Symbology Robert Langdon is once again called into action.

Expertly researched and written with breakneck pace, The Lost Symbol once again demonstrates why Dan Brown is the world's best-selling thriller writer.

Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is summoned to deliver an evening lecture in the U.S. Capitol. Within minutes of his arrival, the night takes a bizarre turn. A disturbing object is discovered in the Capitol Building. The object is an ancient invitation, meant to usher its recipient into a long-lost world of hidden esoteric wisdom. And when Langdon's mentor is kidnapped, Langdon's only hope of saving him is to accept this invitation and follow wherever it leads him.

©2009 Dan Brown (P)2009 Orion Publishing Group

Critic reviews

"Impossible to put down....Mr. Brown was writing sensational visual scenarios long before his books became movie material. This time he again enlivens his story with amazing imagery....Thanks to him, picture postcards of the capital's most famous monuments will never be the same....In the end it is Mr. Brown's sweet optimism, even more than Langdon's sleuthing and explicating, that may amaze his readers most." ( The New York Times)
"Thrilling, entertaining....Robert Langdon goes for another roller-coaster ride - this time in a hunt for a Masonic treasure in Washington, D.C." ( Los Angeles Times)

The Lost Symbol

Introduction:
Greetings, fellow denizens of the vast universe. I am Kiba Snowpaw, the Alpha Ice Wolf from the frozen world of HowlStrom, where winters last a century and magic flows as naturally as the icy winds. As I sit in my icy lair, I've taken a break from my gaming sessions to share my thoughts on an audiobook that has intrigued my senses. Let's embark on this journey together.

Basic Plot Summary:
"The Lost Symbol" is the thrilling continuation of Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series. The narrative spans a mere 12 hours, pulling listeners into a whirlwind of mystery and suspense. Robert Langdon, a Harvard symbologist, is unexpectedly thrust into a perplexing scenario in the U.S. Capitol. An ancient artifact beckons him, leading him on a quest filled with esoteric wisdom. But when a dear mentor is taken, Langdon must follow the trail wherever it may lead.

Analysis/Evaluation:
Dan Brown's signature style of weaving intricate plots with historical and symbolic references is evident in this audiobook. The pacing is relentless, with every twist and turn meticulously crafted to keep the listener engaged. The choice of setting, the U.S. Capitol, adds layers of political intrigue and historical depth to the narrative.

Characters:
Robert Langdon remains the intellectual hero, using his vast knowledge of symbology to decipher clues and navigate treacherous paths. His dedication to his mentor adds an emotional depth to his character, driving him to take risks and make sacrifices. The supporting characters, each with their motivations and secrets, add layers of complexity to the story.

Structure:
The audiobook's structure is tight, with each chapter propelling the narrative forward. The use of a 12-hour timeframe creates a sense of urgency, making the listener feel the weight of every passing minute.

Impact:
The Lost Symbol delves deep into the world of Freemasonry, shedding light on its rituals, beliefs, and influence. It challenges preconceived notions and encourages listeners to question and seek knowledge.

Hook and Thesis:
From the very beginning, the discovery of an ancient object in the U.S. Capitol grabs the listener's attention. The promise of hidden wisdom and the urgency to save a kidnapped mentor set the stage for a thrilling adventure.

Praise and Critique:
The audiobook shines in its detailed research and intricate plot. Paul Michael's narration is commendable, bringing each character to life with distinct voices and emotions. However, some listeners, including myself, might find certain parts predictable, especially if familiar with Brown's previous works.

Comparison:
While "The Lost Symbol" shares thematic elements with its predecessors, "Angels & Demons" and "The Da Vinci Code," it stands out in its exploration of Freemasonry and its setting in the U.S. Capitol.

Conclusion:
In the icy realms of HowlStrom, where time moves differently, stories like "The Lost Symbol" remind us of the power of knowledge and the importance of seeking the truth. While it may not be Dan Brown's best work, it is a worthy addition to the Robert Langdon series. As the Alpha Ice Wolf, I appreciate tales that challenge the mind and stir the soul. May your journeys always lead you to enlightenment.

May the frosty winds of HowlStrom guide you.