Origin begins with a hint of a revelation that will “change the face of science forever.” Langdon was invited to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain, to meet with his former student, Edmond Kirsch. Kirsch is a well known billionaire and futurist whose hi-tech inventions and over the top predictions have made him a global figure. As Langdon is led through the museum by earphones that act as a docent, we are privy to descriptions of some of the most interesting modern art pieces in the world. We are told that Kirsch will soon be unveiling his revelation, but I am enjoying the tour. We also meet Ambra Vidal, the museum director who worked with Kirsch in setting up this presentation.
Something occurs (as it always does in a Dan Brown novel) and Langdon and Vidal are on the run. The powers that be are intent on silencing Kirsch, and Langdon is equally intent on saving the day. I had fun revisiting Dan Brown’s world of symbols and religion. As always I kept thinking I figured it out and realize I was wrong. His characters are well developed, for the most part, and I love his ever present geography lessons. Several years ago, when touring Rome, the guide showed us various places we recalled from Brown’s previous books.
I am trying to review this book without giving anything away, and that is difficult because there are so many fun things to discover as we turn the pages. As in his past books, I assume there will be some religious complaints with his views, but I appreciate that he is able to write from the heart without being influenced by other people’s beliefs.
Although I wasn’t a fan of his last book, Origin has brought me right back to the Dan Brown band wagon.
- Beverly
Publisher - Doubleday
Date of Publication - October 3, 2017