Friday, January 21, 2011

The Emporer's Tomb

Steve Berry

Hearing that his old friend Cassiopeia Vitt is in trouble, Malone follows the few clues he has and realizes that they are in the middle of something huge, involving Russian and US oil interests and a centuries-old secret. After stumbling across two dead bodies and into the cross hairs of his former boss, Malone finds himself in a race to unravel the mystery of an emperor's tomb, a sinister society, and a deadly battle between two ruthless men for supremacy in China -- and the world.

My Take:

Growing up, I was always trying to be just like my dad and copied everything he did.  Most of the things I picked up on as I tried to emulate him have stuck with me in adulthood, not the least of which is my love of reading.  Specifically adventure novels in the vein of Clive Cussler and slightly more political, Tom Clancy.  I remember reading them in elementary school not really understanding them, but determined to muddle through so that I could discuss them with my dad.  As I grew up, I understood them more and my love for them remains.  When I was contacted to review this book, I did a bit of research on Steve Berry, and when many people compared him to Clive Cussler, I knew before I read the book that I'd found a new favorite author.  After reading the book, I wasn't disappointed!  The story (if implausible at times) was exciting and the pacing for the most part was steady and entertaining.  As this was my first read in the series, I wasn't sure if I'd be lost regarding the main character's back stories.  I had no problems whatsoever, I didn't feel lost once.  I really loved the abundance of historical info on Chinese culture, which I find absolutely fascinating.  Berry really captures the intriguing history and uses it as a rich backdrop for a modern political thriller.  The Emperor's Tomb is exciting, informative and extremely entertaining.  Overall I thought the book was great, but could have been just a tad shorter, and the pacing felt sluggish a time or two.  2, Borders with a Coupon.  I can't wait to read more from this author, I can't wait to sink my teeth into some of his Russia centric novels.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!


If The Emperor's Tomb was a movie, it would be rated PG-13




***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

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2 comments:

Kathy said...

Thanks for your review of this, I am glad you enjoyed it. I also read and reviewed it but was mostly disappointed. NIce blog I always enjoy reading it.

Kathy
http://bookdiary2010.blogspot.com/2010/11/emperors-tomb.html

Unknown said...

Steve Berry is amazing! I've read everything he's written (minus) this title. My favorite title is "The Templar Legacy". Fantastic read! My least favorite thus far has been "The Third Secret". I'd love to see you review more of his stuff! Especially, "The Amber Room" or "The Romanov Prophecy" (if you like Russian history).

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