While the author’s first book in a decade is filled with eerie atmosphere and plenty of twists along the way, the plot is too heavy going to make much sense.
Returning to the world of Robert Langdon, the world’s only professor symbology, Dan Brown’s latest novel is exactly what we have come to expect from the author: thrilling, filled with plenty of twists and action and characters with a variety of motivations for murder.
Set in the wonderfully atmospheric city of Prague, The Secret of Secrets delves deep into the world of noetic science, neuroscience, and quantum physics which for those who are unfamiliar with how these sciences work it can make the plot confusing and complex to understand.
There is certainly no faulting the energy and excitement that Brown applies to his writing which always makes his work engaging to read, while setting the story in Prague is an excellent choice in creating an almost ghostly and chilling atmosphere as the horrors start unfolding. Equally as pleasing is the level of intrigue that is applied – for example the way in which Langdon’s partner Katherine’s dream seems to happen in real life (I won’t spoil this) leading to a surprise arrest building to a series of thrilling chases.
Right from the horrific beginning, Brown never misses a trick in order to keep the reader on their toes as the clues slowly start to come together as we try and uncover who “the Golem” is (which is revealed in a slightly flat way it has to be said) and why they are trying to protect lab assistant Sasha Vesna, who works alongside Brigita Gessner. It is also great to see the female characters playing such a central part.
However, it does have to be said that while Brown’s attention to detail is to be applauded, there is a feeling that sometimes the language becomes to complex to make an impact (particularly given all the scientific terms), which can hold the plot back in terms of advancing meaning overall it takes too long to get to the conclusion. This can be slightly frustrating and can make it a difficult read in places.
There are many circumstances that the book feels more like a love letter to Prague, with its attention to the architecture which although useful in places again can distract from the central plot.
Overall, it is a bit of a mixed bag. There is a great energy to it and the concept is solid – but it just gets too heavy going that can make the plot seem lost.
The Secret of Secrets is available to buy now.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️