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After all the uproar over the Da Vinci Code, there was a lot of eyes focused on The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown. Well known for his extensive research and an ability to mix the truth with fiction, The Lost Symbol doesn’t let us down and in the end turns out to be a great book well worth the read.

Beginning with the first line, Dan Brown already has our attention and questions raising in our mind. The story provides us with an extensive amount of information mixed with the beginning foundations of another race against time. Through out most of the book, he keeps the action coming. There is a piece in the middle that slows down, but the linger questions keep you going until he dumps more amazing twists and turns into your lap.

The mystery which Langdon faces is based right in the heart of the United States, in Washington D.C. While being roped into the situation, as done in the previous two books, this book actually entangles Langdon’s personal friend bringing a very personal element into the story. Unlike the close calls found in the first two books, the stakes are raised dramatically in The Lost Symbol.

The characters are well written characters. At the beginning, there are a couple that our famous Langdon meets who don’t come across well rounded, but Dan Brown pulls it off the farther into the story you get. With this cast you don’t know who is standing on which side of the line, which holds your attention. Outside of a good story and good characters, the writing is great as well. There is enough description to paint a picture in your mind without overloading and making it boring. The word choice and use of current character feeling makes your heart beat right along with the characters.

All in all, The Lost Symbol, I think, lived up to all the hype surrounding this release and has proved to not be a good first time read, but a book which could be re-read with just as much enjoyment.