The Charlemagne Pursuit: A Novel

by: Steven Berry

Published by: Ballantine

Reviewed by Jeff Foster

I’ve read all of this author’s books and will nominate this latest novel as one of his best ever.

Just when you thought there were few ancient mysteries yet to be uncovered, Steven Berry brings us The Charlemagne Pursuit. Berry brings back ex-Justice Department agent Cotton Malone to stand alone against a family of eccentric Germans bent on solving the mystery of their father’s untimely death on a secret mission to Antarctica. So where’s the twist? Malone’s father was captain of the vessel that went missing in the late 1970’s with a German civilian aboard.

The journey begins in snowy mountains of southern German and moves around the globe to the United States. Here people high in the American government are determined to prevent Malone, the Germans or anyone for that matter, from finding out what exactly transpired beneath the frigid waters off the coast of Antarctica that caused the vessel to go down–and to cover up the rescue effort.

The story is intricate, as readers of Steven Berry have come to expect. There are subplots and nefarious character working parallel plot lines that I couldn’t wait to see intersect. Berry can be considered a master in this genre. His supporting characters are crafted in such a way with just enough depth to make them real, their stories are always plausible, as we have all come to expect.

Every one of Berry’s novels is supported by the extensive research he conducts to give his readers the background required to understand where he wants to take them. Historical accuracy is key to these books, and the writing is done in such a way as to ease the reader into the depth of scope required to surmise that Berry may actually have uncovered one of histories mysteries.

If you’re a fan of the historical mystery thriller, this book will not let you down.

Armchair Interviews says: Steven Berry “out Cusslers” Cussler.

Author’s Web site: http://www.SteveBerry.org