The Alexandria Link

A Novel

By: Steve Berry

Narrated by: Scott Brick

Cotton Malone retired from the high-risk world of elite operatives for the U.S. Justice Department to lead the low-key life of a rare-book dealer. But his quiet existence is shattered when he receives an anonymous e-mail: “You have something I want. You’ re the only person on earth who knows where to find it. Go get it. You have 72 hours. If I don’t hear from you, you will be childless.” His horrified ex-wife confirms that the threat is real: Their teenage son has been kidnapped. When Malone’s Copenhagen bookshop is burned to the ground, it becomes brutally clear that those responsible will stop at nothing to get what they want. And what they want is nothing less than the lost Library of Alexandria.

A cradle of ideas–historical, philosophical, literary, scientific, and religious–the Library of Alexandria was unparalleled in the world. But fifteen hundred years ago, it vanished into the mists of myth and legend–its vast bounty of wisdom coveted ever since by scholars, fortune hunters, and those who believe its untold secrets hold the key to ultimate power.

Now a cartel of wealthy international moguls, bent on altering the course of history, is desperate to breach the library’s hallowed halls–and only Malone possesses the information they need to succeed. At stake is an explosive ancient document with the potential not only to change the destiny of the Middle East but to shake the world’s three major religions to their very foundations.

Pursued by a lethal mercenary, Malone crosses the globe in search of answers. His quest will lead him to England and Portugal, even to the highest levels of American government–and the shattering outcome, deep in the Sinai desert, will have worldwide repercussions.

BONUS: This edition contains an excerpt from Steve Berry’s The Columbus Affair and a Cotton Malone dossier.©2007 Steve Berry; (P)2007 Random House Inc.

Critic reviews

Praise for Steve Berry

The Templar Legacy

“Richly detailed and fantastically suspenseful, this thriller grips the reader for a wild literary ride that continues until the very last page.”
–Tucson Citizen

The Third Secret

“A racy read . . . skillfully combines Vatican insights, old-fashioned thrills, intrigue, murder, ambition and retribution.”
–Orlando Sentinel

The Romanov Prophecy

“Perfect for thriller fans and history buffs alike. Fabulous plot twists.”
–David Morrell, author of Creepers


The Amber Room

“Sexy, illuminating . . . my kind of thriller.”
–Dan Brown, author of The Da Vinci Code

great story...but disappointing

This is such a good story, and SO well written, it is easy to get lost in it. I was REALLLY disappointed in the end though. I wish Steve Berry would not have written what I see as a complete "cop out". too bad.

Better than Templar

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes. Berry moves the action along by covering three duos before coming together at the end.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Alexandria Link?

George Hadad resurfacing.

What about Scott Brick’s performance did you like?

Average

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Murder for knowledge

Fun, thrilling and definitely worth the credit!

What made the experience of listening to The Alexandria Link the most enjoyable?

Scott Brick's rendition of Malone's ex wife Pam ;)

What did you like best about this story?

Without wanting to give away too many spoilers - I just loved the whole sub-plot playing out between Malone and his ex wife. It really added humor and levity to a great suspense novel.

Which scene was your favorite?

Without a doubt: The scene on the ground on the Sinai peninsula. Before the parachute comes off. Listeners will have no doubt what I am talking about when they reach that point!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Yes, the scene in Hadad's appartment at the beginning of the book. I won't say too much, as it would be a spoiler.

Any additional comments?

Though this is the second book in the series, this was the first Malone novel I discovered years ago in an airport on my way on vacation. It founded my love of the series, and as such I am sure some of my fondness for this particular story is somewhat related to that. That said, it remains one of my favorite Malone stories, and I found its plot resolution very satisfying on all levels. It made me want to read (and now listen to) more!

Decent Story - Terrible Narrator

The story is entertaining enough, but the narrator is absolutely awful. I can't understand why he keeps getting hired to read books. I would have gone with 4 stars if not for that.

Newer Cotton Malone books are better

Good subject matter, but tedious and somewhat flimsy. Great narration by Scott Brick. Berry's later books that weave history with fiction are better.