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Cotton Malone #6
The Emperor's Tomb
The tomb of China’s First Emperor, guarded by an underground army of terra-cotta warriors, has remained sealed for more than 2,000 years. Though it’s regarded as one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world, the Chinese government won’t allow anyone to open it. Why?
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That question is at the heart of a dilemma faced by former Justice Department operative Cotton Malone, whose life is shattered when he receives an anonymous note carrying an unfamiliar Web address. Logging on, he sees Cassiopeia Vitt, a woman who’s saved his life more than once, being tortured at the hands of a mysterious man who has a single Bring me the artifact she’s asked you to keep safe. The only problem is, Malone doesn’t have a clue what the man is talking about, since Cassiopeia has left nothing with him. So begins Malone’s most harrowing adventure to dateâ one that offers up astounding historical revelations, pits him against a ruthless ancient brotherhood, and sends him from Denmark to Belgium to Vietnam then on to China, a vast and mysterious land where danger lurks at every turn.
From the Hardcover edition.
Â
That question is at the heart of a dilemma faced by former Justice Department operative Cotton Malone, whose life is shattered when he receives an anonymous note carrying an unfamiliar Web address. Logging on, he sees Cassiopeia Vitt, a woman who’s saved his life more than once, being tortured at the hands of a mysterious man who has a single Bring me the artifact she’s asked you to keep safe. The only problem is, Malone doesn’t have a clue what the man is talking about, since Cassiopeia has left nothing with him. So begins Malone’s most harrowing adventure to dateâ one that offers up astounding historical revelations, pits him against a ruthless ancient brotherhood, and sends him from Denmark to Belgium to Vietnam then on to China, a vast and mysterious land where danger lurks at every turn.
From the Hardcover edition.
436 pages, Paperback
First published November 23, 2010
1833 people are currently reading
6941 people want to read
About the author
Steve Berry
110 books7,501 followersSteve Berry is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of twenty-two novels, which include: The Last Kingdom , The Omega Factor , The Kaiser's Web, The Warsaw Protocol, The Malta Exchange, The Bishop’s Pawn, The Lost Order, The 14th Colony, The Patriot Threat, The Lincoln Myth, The King's Deception, The Columbus Affair, The Jefferson Key, The Emperor's Tomb, The Paris Vendetta, The Charlemagne Pursuit, The Venetian Betrayal, The Alexandria Link, The Templar Legacy, The Third Secret, The Romanov Prophecy, and The Amber Room. Steve has also co-written a novel with Grant Blackwood, The 9th Man (a Luke Daniels Adventure), and four novellas with M. J. Rose: The End of Forever, The House of Long Ago, The Lake of Learning, and The Museum of Mysteries, all Cassiopeia Vitt tales. His books have been translated into 41 languages with over 25,000,000 copies in 52 countries. They consistently appear in the top echelon of The New York Times, USA Today, and Indie bestseller lists. Somewhere in the world, every thirty seconds, one of his novels is sold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,055 reviews
September 6, 2011
This is my least favorite of the Cotton Malone series. I'm grudgingly giving it three stars because I respect the research and travel Steve Berry did prior to writing the book. I did learn some interesting things about China and its history, and also discovered that there are some debates about the nature of what we consider fossil fuel.
As for the story, though, it was just too muddled and confusing. I could never keep track of who was on whose side and who was double-crossing and who was good and who was bad and who had power and why they had it. There was no feeling of satisfaction when I finished the book. More like a feeling of relief, because I had a hard time making myself finish. I probably won't continue with the series. It's getting a little repetitive and predictable.
As for the story, though, it was just too muddled and confusing. I could never keep track of who was on whose side and who was double-crossing and who was good and who was bad and who had power and why they had it. There was no feeling of satisfaction when I finished the book. More like a feeling of relief, because I had a hard time making myself finish. I probably won't continue with the series. It's getting a little repetitive and predictable.
June 16, 2019
4,25 sterren - Nederlandse paperback - recensie volgt later 🌹🌹🌹
December 3, 2023
Istoria Chinei este destul de puțin cunoscută, iar în acest volum lupta pentru putere dintre doi membrii ai guvernului ne dă ocazia să descoperim o parte a istoriei Primului Împărat. Berry crează o altă poveste de spionaj în jurul unor evenimente istorice adevărate și fictive din istoria Chinei.
May 31, 2025
Whoa and wow! Terrific and fantastic re-read. I loved the Chinese historical setting: especially the time of 221BCE when Qin Shi unifies the warring states of China and becomes the First Emperor. Any TV documentary program I can watch to learn more about this time period: I do. Plus I love Chinese antiques.
Still it was a surprise to learn about the eunuch system.
This book illustrates Steve Berry at his finest. Excellent use of history, plotting, the fictional US Justice agents, do many twists and turns. Just who was on which side fluid. The face-off plot was basically about who would be the next Chinese Premier. Someone hardline seeking to re-establish past iron rule or someone who had democratic leanings.
Unputdownable. Steve Berry is a favourite author of mine
Still it was a surprise to learn about the eunuch system.
This book illustrates Steve Berry at his finest. Excellent use of history, plotting, the fictional US Justice agents, do many twists and turns. Just who was on which side fluid. The face-off plot was basically about who would be the next Chinese Premier. Someone hardline seeking to re-establish past iron rule or someone who had democratic leanings.
Unputdownable. Steve Berry is a favourite author of mine
April 11, 2011
Emperor’s Tomb by Steve Berry (pp. 480)
When the best thing you say about a thriller is that’s well researched, you know you’re in trouble. Cotton Malone and Cassiopeia Witt return in Berry’s sixth book to take the reader on a clunky journey to rescue a boy (weak premise at best) and get involved in a deep behind the scenes political intrigue in China.
From the start the premise misses the urgency of a thriller. The backroom politics of multiple Chinese men from the same areas of government seeking power by tracking the same item is so subtle and interwoven that it’s difficult to keep up with untagged dialogue. Cuts between the over adrenalized Malone and Witt in contrast feels like a rocking ship thrashing you about. The evil entity being blamed on a conspiracy perpetrated by a 2000 year old group of eunuchs called the Ba feels like Dan Brown’s evil albino. Which by extension feels like a lame, lazy premise.
Berry does a nice job of writing Chinese travelogue. He covers a wide variety of towns and hits on many of the cultural and religious elements of the region. Much of the material is similar to what you’d experience in a Comparative Religion class. The modern element of abiotic oil is timely and contrasting with the Russians is thought provoking despite the plot and narrative.
Berry’s afterword is more telling than the book itself. Each book takes him to a new region and he does heavy travel to get settings and details to pop. But at this point, it’s at the expense of the story. His books continue to feel like cobbled together notes from a great vacation instead of a well-developed story.
Berry is releasing the next in the series next month. And I will likely read it, too. I blame Dan Brown. There’s a lack of good offerings in the genre lately. Maybe the problem is less to do with writing and more to do with early success and writing contracts. Thank the heavens for eBooks. At least I’m not killing trees for the privilege.
When the best thing you say about a thriller is that’s well researched, you know you’re in trouble. Cotton Malone and Cassiopeia Witt return in Berry’s sixth book to take the reader on a clunky journey to rescue a boy (weak premise at best) and get involved in a deep behind the scenes political intrigue in China.
From the start the premise misses the urgency of a thriller. The backroom politics of multiple Chinese men from the same areas of government seeking power by tracking the same item is so subtle and interwoven that it’s difficult to keep up with untagged dialogue. Cuts between the over adrenalized Malone and Witt in contrast feels like a rocking ship thrashing you about. The evil entity being blamed on a conspiracy perpetrated by a 2000 year old group of eunuchs called the Ba feels like Dan Brown’s evil albino. Which by extension feels like a lame, lazy premise.
Berry does a nice job of writing Chinese travelogue. He covers a wide variety of towns and hits on many of the cultural and religious elements of the region. Much of the material is similar to what you’d experience in a Comparative Religion class. The modern element of abiotic oil is timely and contrasting with the Russians is thought provoking despite the plot and narrative.
Berry’s afterword is more telling than the book itself. Each book takes him to a new region and he does heavy travel to get settings and details to pop. But at this point, it’s at the expense of the story. His books continue to feel like cobbled together notes from a great vacation instead of a well-developed story.
Berry is releasing the next in the series next month. And I will likely read it, too. I blame Dan Brown. There’s a lack of good offerings in the genre lately. Maybe the problem is less to do with writing and more to do with early success and writing contracts. Thank the heavens for eBooks. At least I’m not killing trees for the privilege.
April 3, 2011
When I grow up I want to be Cotton Malone!
There I’ve said it – I feel better now – now that I’ve been true to myself – I am Spartacus - I am Cotton Malone! If only life was that easy and exciting! The world would be a better place and I’d go to work satisfied that I’d made a difference!
Long before I opened Steve Berry’s “The Emperor’s Tomb” I knew I wanted to read it! Not only did it sport an incredibly seductive and colourful book jacket (UK version infinitely better than the US version) but the subject matter was just up my street – adventure, danger, spies, double crossing, an infinite amount of travel and a second hand bookshop owner – not necessarily in that order – what more could a guy want?!
“Hearing that his old friend Cassiopeia Vitt is in trouble, Malone follows the few clues he has and realises that they are in the middle of something huge, involving Russian and US oil interests and a centuries-old secret. After stumbling across two dead bodies and into the crosshairs of his former boss, Malone finds himself in a race to unravel the mystery of an emperor's tomb, a sinister society, and a deadly battle between two ruthless men for supremacy in China - and the world.”
My first introduction to the master of suspense – Steve Berry – I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but by the time I’d finished the enticing Prologue I knew I was in for the ride of my life – I was well and truly hooked. Crossing a rickety bridge in the middle of nowhere, our protagonists meet danger head on when disaster strikes. The bridge disintegrates and Cotton Malone is left clinging for dear life – reminding me of a predicament Indiana Jones also found himself in in “The Temple of Doom” - it certainly made me smile.
The world has been fascinated by the terra-cotta army ever since its discovery by three farmers, out digging holes to find water, in 1974. Berry utilises this fascination to great effect in “The Emperor’s Tomb” with a wonderful descriptive narrative that places the reader deep within the terra-cotta chambers in Xi’an, Shaanxi province in China – close your eyes and you can almost feel Qin Shi, China’s first Emperor’s, presence in the afterlife. It’s hard to believe that Berry, in the writer’s notes at the end of the book, confesses he’s never been to China due to time constraints.
Full Review on my blog:- http://www.milorambles.com/2011/04/04...
There I’ve said it – I feel better now – now that I’ve been true to myself – I am Spartacus - I am Cotton Malone! If only life was that easy and exciting! The world would be a better place and I’d go to work satisfied that I’d made a difference!
Long before I opened Steve Berry’s “The Emperor’s Tomb” I knew I wanted to read it! Not only did it sport an incredibly seductive and colourful book jacket (UK version infinitely better than the US version) but the subject matter was just up my street – adventure, danger, spies, double crossing, an infinite amount of travel and a second hand bookshop owner – not necessarily in that order – what more could a guy want?!
“Hearing that his old friend Cassiopeia Vitt is in trouble, Malone follows the few clues he has and realises that they are in the middle of something huge, involving Russian and US oil interests and a centuries-old secret. After stumbling across two dead bodies and into the crosshairs of his former boss, Malone finds himself in a race to unravel the mystery of an emperor's tomb, a sinister society, and a deadly battle between two ruthless men for supremacy in China - and the world.”
My first introduction to the master of suspense – Steve Berry – I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but by the time I’d finished the enticing Prologue I knew I was in for the ride of my life – I was well and truly hooked. Crossing a rickety bridge in the middle of nowhere, our protagonists meet danger head on when disaster strikes. The bridge disintegrates and Cotton Malone is left clinging for dear life – reminding me of a predicament Indiana Jones also found himself in in “The Temple of Doom” - it certainly made me smile.
The world has been fascinated by the terra-cotta army ever since its discovery by three farmers, out digging holes to find water, in 1974. Berry utilises this fascination to great effect in “The Emperor’s Tomb” with a wonderful descriptive narrative that places the reader deep within the terra-cotta chambers in Xi’an, Shaanxi province in China – close your eyes and you can almost feel Qin Shi, China’s first Emperor’s, presence in the afterlife. It’s hard to believe that Berry, in the writer’s notes at the end of the book, confesses he’s never been to China due to time constraints.
Full Review on my blog:- http://www.milorambles.com/2011/04/04...
February 15, 2014
I won't write a full review since I was only reading this for fun but I still feel compelled to throw my thoughts into the fray. I only have a few reasons why anyone should read this and those reasons are as followed:
1. You're a Steve Berry fan or Cotton Malone series fan!
2. It's fast, fun, and typical Berry...(which can sometimes be a bad thing if you're persnickety)
3. There is constant action coupled with pretty interesting historic facts yet those moments do not slow down the pace to a snails speed like other historic fiction can do.
4. It's Steve Berry and I stand by my assessment that he is the thinking man's Dan Brown.
That is all!
1. You're a Steve Berry fan or Cotton Malone series fan!
2. It's fast, fun, and typical Berry...(which can sometimes be a bad thing if you're persnickety)
3. There is constant action coupled with pretty interesting historic facts yet those moments do not slow down the pace to a snails speed like other historic fiction can do.
4. It's Steve Berry and I stand by my assessment that he is the thinking man's Dan Brown.
That is all!
September 26, 2017
Only good thing was that I learned a bit of Chinese history. Apart from that, nothing impressed me. I virtually had to force my self to read and finish it.
October 1, 2017
This is the sixth book in a series featuring retired Justice Department operative Cotton Malone. He receives an intense video of his friend, Cassiopeia Vitt, being waterboarded and knows he has to do whatever he can to save her. This set up Malone for one of his most traumatic adventures. He will travel from Denmark to Belgium to Vietnam and then on to China where he will be tested by ruthless ancient brotherhood.
It turns out several groups are searching for an artifact that is important to the Chinese. They are looking for an ancient winged dragon lamp, originally stolen from the tomb of the first Emperor of China. Both Karl Tang and Ni Yong are just a step away from becoming China's new Premiere, a position of power that will allow either man to set foreign policy for their country. Tang is of the opinion that China should remain unwilling to work with any foreign power, believing in the natural expression of totalitarianism. He would also strictly enforce laws and exact severe punishments for breaking them. Ni, on the other hand, would pursue peaceful international relations and permit some local democracy.
I really enjoy this series but for some reason I just wasn't riveted by the action. I felt like Cotton was a secondary character until the last third of the book and it could easily have been edited down a hundred pages for a better flow. Nevertheless, Steve Berry does a great deal of research and incorporates compelling facts into his action novels. While not my favorite, it was still an interesting story and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
It turns out several groups are searching for an artifact that is important to the Chinese. They are looking for an ancient winged dragon lamp, originally stolen from the tomb of the first Emperor of China. Both Karl Tang and Ni Yong are just a step away from becoming China's new Premiere, a position of power that will allow either man to set foreign policy for their country. Tang is of the opinion that China should remain unwilling to work with any foreign power, believing in the natural expression of totalitarianism. He would also strictly enforce laws and exact severe punishments for breaking them. Ni, on the other hand, would pursue peaceful international relations and permit some local democracy.
I really enjoy this series but for some reason I just wasn't riveted by the action. I felt like Cotton was a secondary character until the last third of the book and it could easily have been edited down a hundred pages for a better flow. Nevertheless, Steve Berry does a great deal of research and incorporates compelling facts into his action novels. While not my favorite, it was still an interesting story and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 9, 2019
I always enjoy Steve Berry's novels and this one was no exception. I enjoy the mixture of fiction, history, and action. Berry always brings an interesting twist to his novels that I love. Additionally, his main characters continue to evolve and acquire more depth.
May 22, 2011
For some reason, this book by Steve Berry did not grab me the way that his other books have. In it Cotton Malone teams with Cassiopeia Vitt and travels from the museums of Europe to the terra cotta soldiers of China to rescue a stolen child. They become embroiled in a power struggle between Ni (a moderate) and Tang (an extremist) as each determines to be the next leader of China. Pau, the leader of the Ba (an organization of eununchs seeking control of China), forces this struggle to a head while double agent Viktor plays both ends against the middle. Maybe the book didn't grab because so much Chinese history, philosophy, politics, beliefs, geography, etc. had to be explained to the western reader, rather than allowing the plot to carry the reader. The trickery in the politics and philosophies was also complicated--even Cotton Malone said that he didn't understand it all--though much of the plot boiled down to oil. The novel covered a lot geographically, and the escapes were a bit trite. Somehow, though, this book might be a better action-espionage movie than book. Just think what scenes from China could be included in this! The best part of the book was the notes from the author explaining what was true and what was fiction---and that part was worth it all.
May 8, 2018
Steve Berry’s sixth novel in his remarkable Cotton Malone series, THE EMPEROR’S TOMB has tremendous resonance in today’s geopolitical world. For example, Chinese leader XI JinPing recently had his presidency extended for life. Second, is the US, China, and Russian competition for energy resources and control of new land masses. Third, the world geostrategic balance is being reoriented through the use of new technologies. All of these contemporary issues are played out throughout Berry’s novel that opens with Malone, the former US Justice Department Special Agent for the Magellen Billet receiving a computer message from longtime ally, and possible romantic interest Cassiopeia Vitt, that she is in dire trouble and needs his help. Since in the past she has rescued him, for Malone it was an easy decision to leave his retirement occupation as bookstore owner in Copenhagen to fly off and help her in Belgium and China.
Berry weaves an interesting web whereby Vitt has been asked by a Russian geochemist who lives in China, Lev Sokolov for assistance as his four year old son has been kidnapped. Sokolov had left Russia years before against the wishes of Moscow to marry a Chinese national. Sokolov fears his son has been stolen because of China’s one child policy as males are in such demand. As you will see this is not the reason for the kidnapping, and Vitt immediately becomes involved in a Chinese plot to secure energy independence, and Beijing’s role in the world. It seems that Sokolov was an expert in abiotic oil- oil that is not a fossil fuel but emanates from deep in the ground and as the ability to regenerate itself, making its supply infinite- “a primordial material the earth forms and excretes on a continual basis.”
Berry creates a number of fascinating characters to carry out his plot as he integrates Chinese history and philosophy to educate his reader. Karl Tang is the Chinese Minister of Science and Technology and First Vice President of the People’s Republic of China, and second in power to the president. Tang believes in the ancient authoritarian legalist philosophy pursued by Chinese Emperors for centuries and reinstituted by Mao Zedong. Tang believes that any further Chinese democratization is against its cultural past. Tang’s competition to succeed the aging Chinese president is Ni Yong who heads the Central Commission for Discipline of the People’s Republic. Ni is a practitioner of Confucian values and is the antithesis of Tang when it comes to the exercise of power domestically and abroad. Another interesting creation is Pau Wen, a rich Chinese emigre who left China, and was the former advisor to Mao, now living in Belgium. It appears Wen is a leading member of the Brotherhood of the Ba, an organization of powerful eunuchs, who have historically influenced Chinese government policy through advice to the Emperor, a movement that seems allied with Tang. For the United States the evolution of this power struggle is extremely important because should China gain total energy independence through abiotic oil, and Tang assumes the Chinese presidency, it would pursue an increasingly aggressive foreign policy.
The issue of achieving unfettered access to energy sources is a key to Tang’s realpolitik as it is today in China. China imports 60% of its oil from Africa, Latin America, and Russia as a means of avoiding becoming dependent on Mideast oil which is such a volatile source. To this point China has survived by trading technology and financial aid to corrupted regimes to secure its energy needs. If they were able to achieve energy self-sufficiency, Tang would press domination in the South China Sea, seize Taiwan and possibly Korea, and expand influence throughout South East Asia. A key component to the plotline is the role of the tombs that house the Terra Cotta warriors in Shaanxi, China. It seems that all the major characters have an interest in exploring a newly discovered area of the tomb and what may lay hidden could be the key to the future world balance of power.
Berry’s periodic summary of Chinese history is extremely important to the overall story providing context for events. Berry has the ability to weave aspects of Chinese philosophy and technological advancement, i.e., discovery of salt, drilling techniques, oil, natural gas from previous centuries and how they impact events in the novel. Berry’s mantra as in all of his books is to blend real historical events and discoveries with a counterfactual plot that approaches contemporary realism, this mantra is firmly met in THE EMPEROR’S TOMB. As in all of his “Malone” novels, Berry offers a historical essay at the conclusion of the novel depicting what is actual history, and what is fiction in the author’s presentation – a valuable asset for the reader.
Other characters who emerge important are Viktor Thomas, a Russian operative who seems to work for all sides in the novel at one time or another. Ivan, a Russian agent, bent on stopping China’s power play, Jin Zhao, a geochemist who knew too much about abiotic oil and Tang’s plans. Stephanie Nell, Malone’s old boss at the Magellen Billet appears throughout the plot as do Malone’s many skills that he nurtured throughout his career. Malone is very distrustful of most individuals in the novel who all seem to have their own agendas which usually do not correspond with his. What is different about this current rendition of the Malone saga is that there is a vocalization of his relationship with Vitt as each come to realize the importance of their feelings for each other.
THE EMPEROR’S TOMB contains the usual suspense, country hopping, historical education for the reader, strong plot development, and interesting characters that one comes to expect from a Berry novel. At times the dialogue and background can become a bit long winded, but overall Berry has another success on his hand. If you are interested in continuing with the Malone saga, the next book in the series is the JEFFERSON KEY.
Berry weaves an interesting web whereby Vitt has been asked by a Russian geochemist who lives in China, Lev Sokolov for assistance as his four year old son has been kidnapped. Sokolov had left Russia years before against the wishes of Moscow to marry a Chinese national. Sokolov fears his son has been stolen because of China’s one child policy as males are in such demand. As you will see this is not the reason for the kidnapping, and Vitt immediately becomes involved in a Chinese plot to secure energy independence, and Beijing’s role in the world. It seems that Sokolov was an expert in abiotic oil- oil that is not a fossil fuel but emanates from deep in the ground and as the ability to regenerate itself, making its supply infinite- “a primordial material the earth forms and excretes on a continual basis.”
Berry creates a number of fascinating characters to carry out his plot as he integrates Chinese history and philosophy to educate his reader. Karl Tang is the Chinese Minister of Science and Technology and First Vice President of the People’s Republic of China, and second in power to the president. Tang believes in the ancient authoritarian legalist philosophy pursued by Chinese Emperors for centuries and reinstituted by Mao Zedong. Tang believes that any further Chinese democratization is against its cultural past. Tang’s competition to succeed the aging Chinese president is Ni Yong who heads the Central Commission for Discipline of the People’s Republic. Ni is a practitioner of Confucian values and is the antithesis of Tang when it comes to the exercise of power domestically and abroad. Another interesting creation is Pau Wen, a rich Chinese emigre who left China, and was the former advisor to Mao, now living in Belgium. It appears Wen is a leading member of the Brotherhood of the Ba, an organization of powerful eunuchs, who have historically influenced Chinese government policy through advice to the Emperor, a movement that seems allied with Tang. For the United States the evolution of this power struggle is extremely important because should China gain total energy independence through abiotic oil, and Tang assumes the Chinese presidency, it would pursue an increasingly aggressive foreign policy.
The issue of achieving unfettered access to energy sources is a key to Tang’s realpolitik as it is today in China. China imports 60% of its oil from Africa, Latin America, and Russia as a means of avoiding becoming dependent on Mideast oil which is such a volatile source. To this point China has survived by trading technology and financial aid to corrupted regimes to secure its energy needs. If they were able to achieve energy self-sufficiency, Tang would press domination in the South China Sea, seize Taiwan and possibly Korea, and expand influence throughout South East Asia. A key component to the plotline is the role of the tombs that house the Terra Cotta warriors in Shaanxi, China. It seems that all the major characters have an interest in exploring a newly discovered area of the tomb and what may lay hidden could be the key to the future world balance of power.
Berry’s periodic summary of Chinese history is extremely important to the overall story providing context for events. Berry has the ability to weave aspects of Chinese philosophy and technological advancement, i.e., discovery of salt, drilling techniques, oil, natural gas from previous centuries and how they impact events in the novel. Berry’s mantra as in all of his books is to blend real historical events and discoveries with a counterfactual plot that approaches contemporary realism, this mantra is firmly met in THE EMPEROR’S TOMB. As in all of his “Malone” novels, Berry offers a historical essay at the conclusion of the novel depicting what is actual history, and what is fiction in the author’s presentation – a valuable asset for the reader.
Other characters who emerge important are Viktor Thomas, a Russian operative who seems to work for all sides in the novel at one time or another. Ivan, a Russian agent, bent on stopping China’s power play, Jin Zhao, a geochemist who knew too much about abiotic oil and Tang’s plans. Stephanie Nell, Malone’s old boss at the Magellen Billet appears throughout the plot as do Malone’s many skills that he nurtured throughout his career. Malone is very distrustful of most individuals in the novel who all seem to have their own agendas which usually do not correspond with his. What is different about this current rendition of the Malone saga is that there is a vocalization of his relationship with Vitt as each come to realize the importance of their feelings for each other.
THE EMPEROR’S TOMB contains the usual suspense, country hopping, historical education for the reader, strong plot development, and interesting characters that one comes to expect from a Berry novel. At times the dialogue and background can become a bit long winded, but overall Berry has another success on his hand. If you are interested in continuing with the Malone saga, the next book in the series is the JEFFERSON KEY.
August 21, 2024
Steve Berry - prawnik kochający historię i zabytki. Widać i czuć.
December 9, 2010
Does Cotton Malone ever get to be behind the counter of his book store and actually sell a book to anyone? If so what would the book be and to what famous figure or character would he sell it? Fun thought? Well, since he didn’t sell any books this again, what exactly did he do with his bad self ?
“The tomb of China’s First Emperor, guarded by an underground army of terra-cotta warriors has remained sealed for more than 2,000 years. Though it’s regarded as one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world, the Chinese government won’t allow anyone to open it. Why?
That question is at the heart of a dilemma faced by former Justice Department operative Cotton Malone, whose life is shattered when he receives an anonymous note carrying an unfamiliar Web address. Logging on, he sees Cassiopeia Vitt, a woman who’s saved his life more than once, being tortured at the hands of a mysterious man who has a single demand: Bring me the artifact she’s asked you to keep safe. The only problem is Malone doesn’t have a clue what the man is talking about, since Cassiopeia has left nothing with him. So begins Malone’s most harrowing adventure to date—one that offers up astounding historical revelations, pits him against a ruthless ancient brotherhood, and sends him from Denmark to Belgium to Vietnam then on to China, a vast and mysterious land where danger lurks at every turn. “
The good stuff first, and understand I am giving this five stars; I love the character. Cotton and company are just excellent characters and the dialogue is just really good. I admit to the fact that character driven fiction is my thing and this is right in my wheelhouse. Steve Berry has crafted a truly awesome character in Cotton Malone. The plotline was fun, filled with history and interesting tidbits. One can tell that Mr. Berry did some homework before penning this novel, and the Writer’s Notes clarified a few things for me at the end; I was grateful for them.
The running gag about Cotton not getting the opportunity to sell books is fun. Maybe Mr. Berry can pull a Clive Cussler and be the guy that gets to buy the books from him in the next novel or do something that involves his non-profit organization, History Matters (As a prize, use the winner’s name in the novel, just an idea). Side note: I think that some of Mr. Berry’s readers have to be men and once a guy reads the ritual of the ancient brotherhood, well let’s just say that is all you need; it sticks in your head. I don’t need to have that reinforced throughout the novel, Ouch!!
Check out his website for all things Steve Berry. He is in the middle of a book signing tour right now, get the places and times. http://www.steveberry.org/
*** This Novel DEBUTS @ #8 on The NYT Bestseller list on 12/12.
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“The tomb of China’s First Emperor, guarded by an underground army of terra-cotta warriors has remained sealed for more than 2,000 years. Though it’s regarded as one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world, the Chinese government won’t allow anyone to open it. Why?
That question is at the heart of a dilemma faced by former Justice Department operative Cotton Malone, whose life is shattered when he receives an anonymous note carrying an unfamiliar Web address. Logging on, he sees Cassiopeia Vitt, a woman who’s saved his life more than once, being tortured at the hands of a mysterious man who has a single demand: Bring me the artifact she’s asked you to keep safe. The only problem is Malone doesn’t have a clue what the man is talking about, since Cassiopeia has left nothing with him. So begins Malone’s most harrowing adventure to date—one that offers up astounding historical revelations, pits him against a ruthless ancient brotherhood, and sends him from Denmark to Belgium to Vietnam then on to China, a vast and mysterious land where danger lurks at every turn. “
The good stuff first, and understand I am giving this five stars; I love the character. Cotton and company are just excellent characters and the dialogue is just really good. I admit to the fact that character driven fiction is my thing and this is right in my wheelhouse. Steve Berry has crafted a truly awesome character in Cotton Malone. The plotline was fun, filled with history and interesting tidbits. One can tell that Mr. Berry did some homework before penning this novel, and the Writer’s Notes clarified a few things for me at the end; I was grateful for them.
The running gag about Cotton not getting the opportunity to sell books is fun. Maybe Mr. Berry can pull a Clive Cussler and be the guy that gets to buy the books from him in the next novel or do something that involves his non-profit organization, History Matters (As a prize, use the winner’s name in the novel, just an idea). Side note: I think that some of Mr. Berry’s readers have to be men and once a guy reads the ritual of the ancient brotherhood, well let’s just say that is all you need; it sticks in your head. I don’t need to have that reinforced throughout the novel, Ouch!!
Check out his website for all things Steve Berry. He is in the middle of a book signing tour right now, get the places and times. http://www.steveberry.org/
*** This Novel DEBUTS @ #8 on The NYT Bestseller list on 12/12.
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February 3, 2016
I'll quote from the author, age page 170 of the hardback: "But none of this makes sense." Yes, exactly. However, a 5-page "Writer's Note" at the end of the book contains fascinating historical information. Unfortunately, it takes 428 pages to get there and these 428 pages are so choppy- jumping from scene to scene so quickly- that I was unable to get a sense of a decent narrative story. Some authors are good at this style of writing, some not so good and use this style, in my opinion, to cover up the fact that none of it makes sense. I've liked other Berry books better.
May 23, 2019
This wasn't my cup of tea. I didn't hate it. I didn't love it. I just lost a dear friend to lung cancer and I think I'm just in mourning. I have two more books by this author, and I feel compelled to give them a try at a later date.
I liked Cassiopeia, but I think the story line wasn't for me....ancient oil. It didn't pull me in and it didn't make me forget my problems. This wasn't the book I needed at the moment.
I liked Cassiopeia, but I think the story line wasn't for me....ancient oil. It didn't pull me in and it didn't make me forget my problems. This wasn't the book I needed at the moment.
October 4, 2023
It's funny how you remember books. I only read this particular Cotton Malone once, over ten years ago. I remember it being a lot different than it actually was. I really enjoyed this book, a lot.
Beyond being about oil, and power struggles and politics this book is about emotion and heart. The love of a father for his son. The hope of a man to rescue his country, but above all Cotton and Cassiopeia's love for each other. That is the spine that runs through, and supports this book. It drives Cotton's involvement from beginning to end, and it influences so many of Cassiopeia's choices. They are two strong, smart people and it takes an adventure of grand magnitude to get them both to see it.
The historical, and modern day scientific plotlines in this novel are really intriguing. Without giving too much away, if the sub plot about the oil were true, what a world changing phenomenon that would be. I loved all the history about China and it's first Emperor as well, and the descriptions of his tomb were so creative. Makes you want to see it in person, though that's not possible.
A wonderful, high octane adventure.
Beyond being about oil, and power struggles and politics this book is about emotion and heart. The love of a father for his son. The hope of a man to rescue his country, but above all Cotton and Cassiopeia's love for each other. That is the spine that runs through, and supports this book. It drives Cotton's involvement from beginning to end, and it influences so many of Cassiopeia's choices. They are two strong, smart people and it takes an adventure of grand magnitude to get them both to see it.
The historical, and modern day scientific plotlines in this novel are really intriguing. Without giving too much away, if the sub plot about the oil were true, what a world changing phenomenon that would be. I loved all the history about China and it's first Emperor as well, and the descriptions of his tomb were so creative. Makes you want to see it in person, though that's not possible.
A wonderful, high octane adventure.
April 28, 2014
A fast-paced thriller, The Emperor’s Tomb by Steve Berry is the 8th book in the Cotton Malone series and it pulls you from the moment Cotton is faced with having to save Cassiopeia Vitt’s life in exchange for an ancient Chinese artifact that different groups want and will do anything to get it in their possession.
He’s soon drawn into a power struggle in China, which takes him from Copenhagen, Antwerp and to the most incredible cultural sites in China.
The struggle between the two opponents, one a believer in Confucianism, the other in Legalism, could destroy the balance of power in China, which would affect the rest of the world.
The difference between legalism and Confucianism is that, legalism demands harsh criminal sanctions that are consistent, so as to promote a cohesive society through fear, whereas Confucius demands firm, yet gentle leadership of a cultivated population, which will brings harmony through education in virtue.
An outstanding and in-depth plot, filled with danger, suspense, twists and turns, double crosses, violence and death. The climax at the
What made the story for me was the amazing detail of the culture and history facts of China. He interweaves the plot with historical fact so well – not just facts and figures – in such a way that had me wanting to find out more about the historical part and even had me look up abiotic oil!!!!!!!!!! And the part about Tiananmen Square..wow….
I am totally serious….I did do a lot of “goggling”….wanting to see and know more about the subject in the plot.
That’s what makes a great writer. To get you totally immersed in a world he creates!!!!
And how brilliant….at the end of the book, he gives us a section where he tells us what fact is and what is fiction in the book!!!! I love that he does that with all his books.
I love his writing style, his brilliant and unforgettable characters and the historical topics of his books.
The only moan I have….wanted more of Cotton and Cassiopeia together..I hope that these two get together…I mean really together, in the future.
A nice and surprise at the end…..and I can’t wait for the next book.
June 26, 2019
Cotton Malone's life as an antiquarian book dealer in Copenhagen is never boring, hell, I wonder if he even has time to be an antiquarian book dealer since he spends much of his time traveling around the globe saving things and people. In this book, he has to save his close friend Cassiopeia Vitt and suddenly he is smack in the middle of a power struggle between two of Chinas leading men. It’s nonstop action from the beginning till the end. Just the way I like my adventures books. And you get a history lesson about Chinas first emperor. I like that too since I am not that well informed about Chinas history.
It’s a good book, it never gets boring. The only thing I didn’t like was the ending when
It’s a good book, it never gets boring. The only thing I didn’t like was the ending when
August 13, 2013
I loved it. If you enjoy an engaging story, against a fabulous landscape, with an amazing amount of history thrown in, this is for you. I have read a lot of books on China and I still learned a lot. A very intriguing picture of the socio-political conflict that has come down through the ages of Chinese history and brings us right into current time with the need for oil and authority being paramount. Steve tells a really good story....his characters are interesting and his descriptions of the Chinese historical sites are vivid. Yes, there is a bit of violence, but it is not overdone and I found it quite a manageable part of the whole tale. Escape for a few absorbing hours into Chinese history/ archaeology and intrigue.....and enjoy the adventure.......
March 21, 2011
Berry brings China and its history to life with the lastest adventure of Cotton Malone. With lots of betrayals, and agents involved from the US and Russia and high ranking officials in China this mission gets really tangled over the retrieval of a little boy. Parts of the story are somwhat complicated and it gets a little tough to follow and you may find yourself re-reading parts of it. But I have found that in several of his books. However, I did like learning some of China's history.
January 23, 2022
I am not sure if it was me or the way the book was written but I had a little bit harder time following the jumps between areas and characters in this book. However as usual a great Cotton Malone adventure
January 8, 2021
I loved it 5 stars
January 12, 2022
When Cotton Malone, former Justice Department operative, is sent a live feed of Cassiopeia Vitt being water boarded and hears her confession to her captors that she gave Malone an artifact for safe keeping, he is compelled to assist, despite having no clue to what she is referring. As a result, he gets caught up in a maze of Chinese political intrigue involving the tomb of China’s first emperor.
Once again Steve Berry brings an exciting premise that marries interesting historical events to modern day action-packed thrills. My knowledge of China’s history is, admittedly, rather sparse and I was glad to learn a lot while reading this novel. It touches on many aspects of China from ancient emperors, philosophy, geographical provinces, modern politics, and the ever-present search for power that is granted by access to oil. I continue to enjoy these characters and their evolving relationships and was especially intrigued with Viktor Tomas, a character that returns from The Venetian Betrayal. His loyalties have always been suspect but here those conflicts are in full display as he acts like an enemy agent but also saves Malone’s and Vitt’s lives…or is that just for show?
Another fun novel that may stretch just a bit too long but nevertheless makes for a page-turning read. A short story does exist (The Balkan Escape) that acts as a prequel to this novel and explains Cassiopeia's motivation here but really is not necessary to the reading of this novel.
Once again Steve Berry brings an exciting premise that marries interesting historical events to modern day action-packed thrills. My knowledge of China’s history is, admittedly, rather sparse and I was glad to learn a lot while reading this novel. It touches on many aspects of China from ancient emperors, philosophy, geographical provinces, modern politics, and the ever-present search for power that is granted by access to oil. I continue to enjoy these characters and their evolving relationships and was especially intrigued with Viktor Tomas, a character that returns from The Venetian Betrayal. His loyalties have always been suspect but here those conflicts are in full display as he acts like an enemy agent but also saves Malone’s and Vitt’s lives…or is that just for show?
Another fun novel that may stretch just a bit too long but nevertheless makes for a page-turning read. A short story does exist (The Balkan Escape) that acts as a prequel to this novel and explains Cassiopeia's motivation here but really is not necessary to the reading of this novel.
June 26, 2022
4,5 sterren - Nederlandse paperback
Ronald, gebruiker huisbibliotheek Bellefleur
Het is een echte page - turner.
Een van de betere boeken die ik al gelezen heb. Ik heb even getwijfeld omdat het in China was en dat soms te ingewikkeld kan zijn maar in dit boek had ik daar absoluut geen last mee.
Het is een spannend boek waar veel in gebeurt. Ieder hoofdstuk is belangrijk. Er komen onverwachte wendingen in. Het boek blijft ook spannend tot op het einde, bij bepaalde boeken weet je eigenlijk al halverwege het boek of een paar hoofdstukken voor het einde hoe het afloopt.
Steve Berry zijn onderzoek grondig gedaan, alles tot in de details uitgewerkt. Echt waar deze schrijver begint zeker tot mijn lievelings auteurs te behoren.
Ronald, gebruiker huisbibliotheek Bellefleur
Het is een echte page - turner.
Een van de betere boeken die ik al gelezen heb. Ik heb even getwijfeld omdat het in China was en dat soms te ingewikkeld kan zijn maar in dit boek had ik daar absoluut geen last mee.
Het is een spannend boek waar veel in gebeurt. Ieder hoofdstuk is belangrijk. Er komen onverwachte wendingen in. Het boek blijft ook spannend tot op het einde, bij bepaalde boeken weet je eigenlijk al halverwege het boek of een paar hoofdstukken voor het einde hoe het afloopt.
Steve Berry zijn onderzoek grondig gedaan, alles tot in de details uitgewerkt. Echt waar deze schrijver begint zeker tot mijn lievelings auteurs te behoren.
February 15, 2017
not my kind of book.
June 3, 2019
of course there was waterboarding, too, besides chili and rats
p390: he fired the crossbow.
an instant later the arrow slammed into .
p390: he fired the crossbow.
an instant later the arrow slammed into .
July 25, 2023
The Emperor's Tomb was probably my least favorite installment so far within the Cotton Malone series. For mainly one reason and that is this particular editions cast of characters. I have enjoyed most of the characters old and new Berry introduces in all his books so far. However, with The Emperor's Tomb, the villains and those in between were not compelling to me at all. I never truly cared about their motives which deterred me from fulling enjoying the mystery of the novel. The rest was pretty much everything I expect from a Cotton Malone book.
April 19, 2012
Mon avis:
La couverture:
Pour commencer, je parlerai de la couverture, sombre et mystérieuse qui nous donne l'impression que l'on va effectivement ouvrir les portes d'un monastère et nous met directement dans l'ambiance.
L'histoire:
L'histoire est plutôt compliquée, je ne saurai même pas par quel bout commencer, j'admire d'ailleurs la personne qui a dû rédiger la quatrième de couverture rendant ainsi le roman un peu plus clair... Comme vous l'aurez certainement compris, le récit va tourner autour de la Chine et d'un mystérieux tombeau. Tout commence avec un e-mail que Cotton Malone, un ancien militaire reconvertit en libraire, reçoit. Dans ce courriel, il peut voir son amie Cassiopée Vitt, torturée... Cotton va donc courir à sa rescousse sans vraiment savoir dans quel pétrin il va mettre les pieds.
Les personnages:
Les personnages en présence dans le roman semblent être récurrents chez Steve Berry. En effet, on comprend très vite que Cotton, Cassiopée, Stéphanie et Victor ont déjà vécu quelques aventures ensemble. J'ai trouvé d'ailleurs assez agaçants toutes ces anecdotes sur les romans passés et qui n'ont aucun intérêt dans le roman présent.
Le style de l'auteur:
Le style de l'auteur est plutôt inégal. Le livre commence par un réel départ en trombe puis semble stagner sur environ 200 pages. Le début du roman s'attache à un lieu et parfois à un ou deux personnages créant une certaine confusion. Je me suis sentie assaillie par pleins d'informations sans vraiment savoir quoi en faire. J'ai eu la sensation que tout partait dans tous les sens et j'avais vraiment du mal à m'imaginer la suite de tout ça. Heureusement, tout se rejoint environ vers 250 pages même si tout n'est pas encore très clair. Les personnages sont de sacrés manipulateurs et menteurs ceux qui crée une réelle confusion. Qui croire?
Le choix d'une narration externe fait de chaque personnage un suspect potentiel créant un certain suspens.
Une fois que le livre a pris son envol (pénible, il faut l'avouer), c'est un réel plaisir de lecture qui s'empare du lecteur. j'étais vraiment pressé de connaître la fin de cette histoire aux multiples rebondissements. Jusqu'aux dernières pages, un mystère plane...
Je note également une certaine confusion dans les dialogues que j'ai trouvé plutôt brouillons. Parfois, il me fallait les lire deux fois pour comprendre qui disait quoi à qui. J'aurai également aimé plus de passages "historiques", avec des retours en arrière. En effet, je trouve que les couvertures de ce livre créent cet effet d'attente du lecteur (en tout cas c'est ce que ça a fait chez moi).
Pour finir, je reviendrai sur la qualification de thriller de ce roman. J'ai lu énormément de thrillers et je n'ai pas eu la sensation d'en lire un avec ce roman. Je qualifierai plutôt ce livre de roman d'aventure.
Pour résumer:
Une intrigue longue à démarrer mais qui s'avère bien menée sur les trois quart du livre. Une lecture agréable mais qui me déçoit un peu.
Si vous voulez lire plus de critiques: http://aufildesplumes.blogspot.fr
La couverture:
Pour commencer, je parlerai de la couverture, sombre et mystérieuse qui nous donne l'impression que l'on va effectivement ouvrir les portes d'un monastère et nous met directement dans l'ambiance.
L'histoire:
L'histoire est plutôt compliquée, je ne saurai même pas par quel bout commencer, j'admire d'ailleurs la personne qui a dû rédiger la quatrième de couverture rendant ainsi le roman un peu plus clair... Comme vous l'aurez certainement compris, le récit va tourner autour de la Chine et d'un mystérieux tombeau. Tout commence avec un e-mail que Cotton Malone, un ancien militaire reconvertit en libraire, reçoit. Dans ce courriel, il peut voir son amie Cassiopée Vitt, torturée... Cotton va donc courir à sa rescousse sans vraiment savoir dans quel pétrin il va mettre les pieds.
Les personnages:
Les personnages en présence dans le roman semblent être récurrents chez Steve Berry. En effet, on comprend très vite que Cotton, Cassiopée, Stéphanie et Victor ont déjà vécu quelques aventures ensemble. J'ai trouvé d'ailleurs assez agaçants toutes ces anecdotes sur les romans passés et qui n'ont aucun intérêt dans le roman présent.
Le style de l'auteur:
Le style de l'auteur est plutôt inégal. Le livre commence par un réel départ en trombe puis semble stagner sur environ 200 pages. Le début du roman s'attache à un lieu et parfois à un ou deux personnages créant une certaine confusion. Je me suis sentie assaillie par pleins d'informations sans vraiment savoir quoi en faire. J'ai eu la sensation que tout partait dans tous les sens et j'avais vraiment du mal à m'imaginer la suite de tout ça. Heureusement, tout se rejoint environ vers 250 pages même si tout n'est pas encore très clair. Les personnages sont de sacrés manipulateurs et menteurs ceux qui crée une réelle confusion. Qui croire?
Le choix d'une narration externe fait de chaque personnage un suspect potentiel créant un certain suspens.
Une fois que le livre a pris son envol (pénible, il faut l'avouer), c'est un réel plaisir de lecture qui s'empare du lecteur. j'étais vraiment pressé de connaître la fin de cette histoire aux multiples rebondissements. Jusqu'aux dernières pages, un mystère plane...
Je note également une certaine confusion dans les dialogues que j'ai trouvé plutôt brouillons. Parfois, il me fallait les lire deux fois pour comprendre qui disait quoi à qui. J'aurai également aimé plus de passages "historiques", avec des retours en arrière. En effet, je trouve que les couvertures de ce livre créent cet effet d'attente du lecteur (en tout cas c'est ce que ça a fait chez moi).
Pour finir, je reviendrai sur la qualification de thriller de ce roman. J'ai lu énormément de thrillers et je n'ai pas eu la sensation d'en lire un avec ce roman. Je qualifierai plutôt ce livre de roman d'aventure.
Pour résumer:
Une intrigue longue à démarrer mais qui s'avère bien menée sur les trois quart du livre. Une lecture agréable mais qui me déçoit un peu.
Si vous voulez lire plus de critiques: http://aufildesplumes.blogspot.fr
February 8, 2011
I finished this book a few minutes ago, and, among other writerly thoughts I'm walking away with an awestruck kind of respect for Berry's masterful use of multiple POV's as well his his fine tuned use of sweeping historical relevance in both his subplot and main storyline. Narration, dialogue, back-story - all woven into a spectacular tale. Love is the hardest thing to add to this kind of action thriller, in the sense that our hero Cotton Malone is, well, who he is. A capable "machine" of a man counted on by world governments to get the job done as an agent for the good guys. It's simply who he is. The added element of an equally capable female agent and potential love interest amid the complications of, oh, say, trying to stay alive 99% of the time is a huge plus and makes for high action on every level. This is one of, if not the best in the series so far and a book I highly recommend! Steve Berry sets the "bar" to astronomical heights with this masterwork of a novel.
Ok, thriller fans, I'm 100 or so pages into this awesome story! The author doesn't disappoint with this tale either. Our hero Cotton, and a new and different and totally capable heroine, Ms. Vitt start us off up to their ears in intrigue and life threatening trouble. Stay tuned!
I'm looking forward to starting this book later today. Steve Berry is a master of detail and a gifted story teller. His Cotton Malone character is a complex man, a man with issues who tries to do the right thing. Berry is one of today's top authors because he is a master of detail, which he integrates into sweeping historical sequences and heart pounding action. I'll let you know!
Ok, thriller fans, I'm 100 or so pages into this awesome story! The author doesn't disappoint with this tale either. Our hero Cotton, and a new and different and totally capable heroine, Ms. Vitt start us off up to their ears in intrigue and life threatening trouble. Stay tuned!
I'm looking forward to starting this book later today. Steve Berry is a master of detail and a gifted story teller. His Cotton Malone character is a complex man, a man with issues who tries to do the right thing. Berry is one of today's top authors because he is a master of detail, which he integrates into sweeping historical sequences and heart pounding action. I'll let you know!
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