— “History is always written by the winners. When two cultures clash, the loser is obliterated, and the winner writes the history books-books which glorify their own cause and disparage the conquered foe. As Napoleon once said, ‘What is history, but a fable agreed upon?” — Dan Brown, “The Da Vinci Code”



Dan Brown has often been the target of high praise and controversy. Whether it’s bringing to life an ancient conspiracy or promoting an unpopular theory, his impact on the world of suspense fiction is unprecedented. Now that his new book, “Inferno,” was announced for May release, let’s take a look at what makes this author so intriguing.

Dan Brown achieved major success in 2003 with the release of “The Da Vinci Code.” The book follows Harvard symbology professor Robert Langdon in a non-stop thrill ride to find the Holy Grail. With the help of Sophie Neveu, a police cryptographer, they follow a trail of clues wrought with deception and intrigue that leads them through many historic areas of France and Great Britain. The book’s controversial subject matter (the bloodline of Jesus) and historic “facts” have garnered a lot of positive and negative attention, but it remains one of the most beloved suspense novels of all time.

Robert Langdon also appears as the main protagonist in the prequel, “Angels and Demons,” and the sequel, “The Lost Symbol.” Both books have tackled many of history’s more mysterious groups such as the Illuminati and the Masons. “Inferno” will mark the fourth adventure of the dashing professor of symbology.

Although not as popular as his “Robert Langdon Saga,” Dan Brown’s other books, “Deception Point” and “Digital Fortress,” offer two very unique thrill rides.

“Deception Point” follows NRO officer Rachel Sexton as she becomes entangled in a conspiracy with NASA, a prominent senator, and the President of the United States. A meteorite is discovered that may provide proof of extraterrestrial life, but there are those who want this discovery to be kept a secret and will do anything to keep it that way. “Digital Fortress

 is a “techno-thriller” that delves into the subject of government surveillance and the impact that it has on the lives of private citizens. When a code-breaking supercomputer finds a code it can’t break, the NSA scrambles to break it before it leads to a security breach.

If you’re looking for interesting reading material, be sure to check out the works of Dan Brown. He offers an entertaining read while also giving you some food for thought. There are many copies of Brown’s books available through Muskogee Public Library and we look forward to helping you with your next entertaining read.

Jeremy Jones is the adult program coordinator at the Muskogee Public Library. Reach him at (918) 682-6657 or jonesj@eok.lib.ok.us.