What do you think?
Rate this book
Ben Hope #29
The Golden Library
Learn the secret – or die trying
Has ex-SAS soldier Ben Hope finally got out of his depth?
That’s the question Ben faces when the hunt for a missing girl takes him to China. He’s a stranger in a strange land – but he’s also the victim’s only hope. To make things worse, she’s almost family.
As the pressure mounts, so does the gruesome death toll. With ruthless enemies in pursuit and an unlikely alliance with an enigmatic detective his only lifeline, Ben realises that this situation is far more explosive than even he’d bargained for. Suddenly it’s no longer just the missing girl’s fate depending on him.
At the heart of the mystery lies an ancient secret dating back to China’s first emperor and the legendary Terracotta Army – a secret that people will still kill for, millennia later. Ben Hope has never turned his back on those in need, and he’s no stranger to tough odds. But can he survive long enough to discover the truth – and is he ready for the consequences?
Has ex-SAS soldier Ben Hope finally got out of his depth?
That’s the question Ben faces when the hunt for a missing girl takes him to China. He’s a stranger in a strange land – but he’s also the victim’s only hope. To make things worse, she’s almost family.
As the pressure mounts, so does the gruesome death toll. With ruthless enemies in pursuit and an unlikely alliance with an enigmatic detective his only lifeline, Ben realises that this situation is far more explosive than even he’d bargained for. Suddenly it’s no longer just the missing girl’s fate depending on him.
At the heart of the mystery lies an ancient secret dating back to China’s first emperor and the legendary Terracotta Army – a secret that people will still kill for, millennia later. Ben Hope has never turned his back on those in need, and he’s no stranger to tough odds. But can he survive long enough to discover the truth – and is he ready for the consequences?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2024
268 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
May 24, 2024
There is nothing like reading one of Scott Mariani’s novels in the Ben Hope series! Never a cookie-cutter style of writing, Mariani pulls on historical events and places them in a modern setting. Ben Hope is always on the run from something, spurred on to find answers and people, wherever it takes him. Hope ends up inside China, where many mysteries await him, as well as a number of dangerous traps. A quick-paced novel that adds to a wonderful series. Mariani is at the top of his game!
While Ben Hope has begun asking himself where to take the next chapter in his life, he is called to a party in Switzerland, where his sister is sharing some amazing news. While there, Ben is pulled into a panic after news comes from China that his soon to be brother-in-law’s sister finds herself in trouble. Pulling on his past, Hope is convinced to at least explore what appears to be a kidnap attempt in the mysterious country. It may be out of his comfort zone, but Ben Hope is never one to let the chance to help pass him by.
While there are few answers upon Hope’s arrival, he is soon targeted and attacked for poking into too much. Making a loose connection to a local detective, Hope seeks to make inroads before he is killed by some ruthless criminals. What seemed to be a missing girl’s mystery soon turns into something historical and with many more impactful outcomes.
It would seem that the missing woman is in possession of something tied to one of China’s first empires, with the Golden Library at its centre. A number of powerful warriors, who have been anything but calm, want answers and Ben Hope may be the only person keeping the mystery from being revealed. Racing for truths, safety, and to uncover the one thing that is creating such a violent reaction, Ben Hope will have to stay alive long enough to set the record straight. Highly adventurous and addictive, Scott Mariani has all the elements needed to keep this series moving forward!
There is something about a Scott Mariani novel that has me coming back each time. While there are a large number of books in the series, things rarely lose their impact, as Ben Hope is always looking out for something new. The story flows well and the action helps pump up the momentum. While things appear to move in a certain direction, there are always moves that change the story into something deeper and more steeped in history. Characters are varied and keep the story flavorful, with Ben Hope offering a little more about himself. There is something about this series that keeps me coming back and things have yet to show a hint of going stale.
Plot points keep things even more exciting. Mariani knows how to balance past with present, while peppering in a twist or two to ensure the reader stays with the moving narrative. I never find myself bored or without interest in what is going on, a hint that Scott Mariani is one author who knows how to keep the reader hooked. I am eager to see where things are headed and how I can join the adventure.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for delving into the ancient mysteries and coming up with another winner.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
While Ben Hope has begun asking himself where to take the next chapter in his life, he is called to a party in Switzerland, where his sister is sharing some amazing news. While there, Ben is pulled into a panic after news comes from China that his soon to be brother-in-law’s sister finds herself in trouble. Pulling on his past, Hope is convinced to at least explore what appears to be a kidnap attempt in the mysterious country. It may be out of his comfort zone, but Ben Hope is never one to let the chance to help pass him by.
While there are few answers upon Hope’s arrival, he is soon targeted and attacked for poking into too much. Making a loose connection to a local detective, Hope seeks to make inroads before he is killed by some ruthless criminals. What seemed to be a missing girl’s mystery soon turns into something historical and with many more impactful outcomes.
It would seem that the missing woman is in possession of something tied to one of China’s first empires, with the Golden Library at its centre. A number of powerful warriors, who have been anything but calm, want answers and Ben Hope may be the only person keeping the mystery from being revealed. Racing for truths, safety, and to uncover the one thing that is creating such a violent reaction, Ben Hope will have to stay alive long enough to set the record straight. Highly adventurous and addictive, Scott Mariani has all the elements needed to keep this series moving forward!
There is something about a Scott Mariani novel that has me coming back each time. While there are a large number of books in the series, things rarely lose their impact, as Ben Hope is always looking out for something new. The story flows well and the action helps pump up the momentum. While things appear to move in a certain direction, there are always moves that change the story into something deeper and more steeped in history. Characters are varied and keep the story flavorful, with Ben Hope offering a little more about himself. There is something about this series that keeps me coming back and things have yet to show a hint of going stale.
Plot points keep things even more exciting. Mariani knows how to balance past with present, while peppering in a twist or two to ensure the reader stays with the moving narrative. I never find myself bored or without interest in what is going on, a hint that Scott Mariani is one author who knows how to keep the reader hooked. I am eager to see where things are headed and how I can join the adventure.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for delving into the ancient mysteries and coming up with another winner.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
June 2, 2024
It is my first time reading this author and a Ben Hope thriller. From other reviews it sounded like it will be a fast paced action thriller and that's exactly what this book is.
It can be read as a stand alone and makes for an entertaining story. More than the thrills, it is the action - car chases, shootouts, inexplicable escapes - that carry the story forward. I enjoyed these aspects but if it had a grittier plot I would have enjoyed it a lot more.
I hoped that the Chinese landscapes would make more of an impression on the plot but from the author's note it is clear that he has not been to China himself so his inferences are drawn partly from sources and partly from imagination.
All in all if you like a good action packed plot, you will enjoy this book.
It can be read as a stand alone and makes for an entertaining story. More than the thrills, it is the action - car chases, shootouts, inexplicable escapes - that carry the story forward. I enjoyed these aspects but if it had a grittier plot I would have enjoyed it a lot more.
I hoped that the Chinese landscapes would make more of an impression on the plot but from the author's note it is clear that he has not been to China himself so his inferences are drawn partly from sources and partly from imagination.
All in all if you like a good action packed plot, you will enjoy this book.
May 24, 2024
Wow! This is the best Ben Hope adventure so far, and all the others have been brilliant, too.
Ben Hope is in Switzerland for his sister, Ruth's, engagement party. During the weekend, Steffan's sister Lara disappears in China. She's there on a year out from her university course. Lara's Chinese boyfriend Den, finds an important decades old artefact. It must be kept from the controlling
Chinese Authorities, but, as often happens in these adventures, nothing goes according to plan.
Ben and Steffan go to China to get Lara back. They face many dangers, kidnappers, gunmen, the Chinese Police and many others.
This is possibly the toughest assignment that Ben Hope has ever taken on. It's made more difficult because of the language barrier and people are not who they seem to be. Very hard to trust someone, if you're not sure which side they're on.
Looking forward to the next book, if Amazon get stock in. Usually I've pre-ordered the next book before reading the one I've got.
Ben Hope is in Switzerland for his sister, Ruth's, engagement party. During the weekend, Steffan's sister Lara disappears in China. She's there on a year out from her university course. Lara's Chinese boyfriend Den, finds an important decades old artefact. It must be kept from the controlling
Chinese Authorities, but, as often happens in these adventures, nothing goes according to plan.
Ben and Steffan go to China to get Lara back. They face many dangers, kidnappers, gunmen, the Chinese Police and many others.
This is possibly the toughest assignment that Ben Hope has ever taken on. It's made more difficult because of the language barrier and people are not who they seem to be. Very hard to trust someone, if you're not sure which side they're on.
Looking forward to the next book, if Amazon get stock in. Usually I've pre-ordered the next book before reading the one I've got.
August 31, 2024
This installment of the Hope series had one of my favorite disciplines: the Dim Mak. As a teenager in the eighties, like many, I was a big fan of Jean Claude Van Damme and his martial arts movies. In his breakthrough movie Blood Sport, JCVD must prove himself a student of Sensei Tanaka, and worthy of entry to the Kumite by performing the death touch on a stack of bricks. He passes with flying colors.
This story takes us to China were Hope battles many foes in search of a mysterious artefact and a kidnapping. A little repetitive when Ben quickly hooks up with the single young attractive woman but enjoyable overall.
This story takes us to China were Hope battles many foes in search of a mysterious artefact and a kidnapping. A little repetitive when Ben quickly hooks up with the single young attractive woman but enjoyable overall.
July 14, 2024
The Golden Library by Scott Mariani is a gripping thriller that combines mystery, history, and high-stakes adventure into a captivating narrative. Mariani has once again proven himself to be a master of the genre, delivering a page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The story follows Ben Hope, a former soldier turned troubleshooter, as he is drawn into a quest that takes him into China in search of a legendary library said to hold the key to unimaginable power. As Ben delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the library, he uncovers a web of secrets, conspiracies, and ancient rivalries that threaten to unleash chaos upon the world.
Ben is in Switzerland for his sister Ruth’s engagement to Steffan, an heir to a multi-millionaire family. Just hours before the engagement, his sister Lara, who is a history student in China goes missing. Lara’s Chinese boyfriend, Den has found a decades-old artefact dating back to the first emperor of China and the Terracotta army. The inscription discovered by Den is a secret location to the Golden Library, which holds a wealth of knowledge and one that was stashed away from the greedy and selfish rulers of ancient China by the then wise men. Now the Chinese authorities want to lay their hands on this knowledge to fuel their nefarious plan. Being aware of this situation, Den gives it to Lara to hand it over to his close friends, before he is brutally tortured and killed by his adversaries. Just as Lara hands over the artefact to Den’s friends as promised, she is kidnapped.
Back in Switzerland, Ben is convinced that the events that transpired in China are beyond just a missing case in a mysterious country. As Ben and Steffan land in Beijing, China, they are first targeted and attacked for meddling in the police investigations. As they begin their parallel search for Lara with the help of a local detective, their journey forward is filled with car chases and shoot-outs, barely keeping them alive, escaping from the Chinese police and the adversaries who are in pursuit of this historical artefact.
Mariani's storytelling is fast-paced and immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring the various settings to life. From the streets of Beijing to the remote village, that forms the epicentre of the machination, each location is vividly rendered, creating a sense of place that enhances the story's tension and drama. The author's attention to detail is also evident in his handling of historical elements, seamlessly blending fact and fiction to create a rich tapestry of intrigue.
The plot itself is a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns, with plenty of surprising revelations and edge-of-your-seat moments to keep readers guessing. Mariani deftly weaves together multiple storylines, shifting between past and present to gradually uncover the truth behind the Golden Library and the forces that seek to control it. The tension builds steadily throughout the novel, culminating in a thrilling climax that will leave readers breathless.
In addition to its gripping plot and well-drawn characters, The Golden Library also raises thought-provoking questions about power, knowledge, and the nature of history. Through its exploration of ancient texts, hidden codes, and lost treasures, the novel invites readers to consider how the past shapes the present and the dangers of those who seek to manipulate it for their ends.
Overall, The Golden Library is a masterful thriller that combines heart-pounding action with intellectual depth. Mariani's skilful storytelling, vivid world-building, and strong character development make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Ben Hope series or new to Scott Mariani's work, this book is sure to keep you captivated until the very last page.
The story follows Ben Hope, a former soldier turned troubleshooter, as he is drawn into a quest that takes him into China in search of a legendary library said to hold the key to unimaginable power. As Ben delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the library, he uncovers a web of secrets, conspiracies, and ancient rivalries that threaten to unleash chaos upon the world.
Ben is in Switzerland for his sister Ruth’s engagement to Steffan, an heir to a multi-millionaire family. Just hours before the engagement, his sister Lara, who is a history student in China goes missing. Lara’s Chinese boyfriend, Den has found a decades-old artefact dating back to the first emperor of China and the Terracotta army. The inscription discovered by Den is a secret location to the Golden Library, which holds a wealth of knowledge and one that was stashed away from the greedy and selfish rulers of ancient China by the then wise men. Now the Chinese authorities want to lay their hands on this knowledge to fuel their nefarious plan. Being aware of this situation, Den gives it to Lara to hand it over to his close friends, before he is brutally tortured and killed by his adversaries. Just as Lara hands over the artefact to Den’s friends as promised, she is kidnapped.
Back in Switzerland, Ben is convinced that the events that transpired in China are beyond just a missing case in a mysterious country. As Ben and Steffan land in Beijing, China, they are first targeted and attacked for meddling in the police investigations. As they begin their parallel search for Lara with the help of a local detective, their journey forward is filled with car chases and shoot-outs, barely keeping them alive, escaping from the Chinese police and the adversaries who are in pursuit of this historical artefact.
Mariani's storytelling is fast-paced and immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring the various settings to life. From the streets of Beijing to the remote village, that forms the epicentre of the machination, each location is vividly rendered, creating a sense of place that enhances the story's tension and drama. The author's attention to detail is also evident in his handling of historical elements, seamlessly blending fact and fiction to create a rich tapestry of intrigue.
The plot itself is a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns, with plenty of surprising revelations and edge-of-your-seat moments to keep readers guessing. Mariani deftly weaves together multiple storylines, shifting between past and present to gradually uncover the truth behind the Golden Library and the forces that seek to control it. The tension builds steadily throughout the novel, culminating in a thrilling climax that will leave readers breathless.
In addition to its gripping plot and well-drawn characters, The Golden Library also raises thought-provoking questions about power, knowledge, and the nature of history. Through its exploration of ancient texts, hidden codes, and lost treasures, the novel invites readers to consider how the past shapes the present and the dangers of those who seek to manipulate it for their ends.
Overall, The Golden Library is a masterful thriller that combines heart-pounding action with intellectual depth. Mariani's skilful storytelling, vivid world-building, and strong character development make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Ben Hope series or new to Scott Mariani's work, this book is sure to keep you captivated until the very last page.
April 18, 2025
Three stars but actually a 3.5 star rating. Exciting, thrilling and somewhat clichéd at times, our hugely likeable action hero puts the boot in to some thoroughly unpleasant and violent villains in the far east. The descriptions of what they did are suitably stomach churning and so they deserved everything they had coming to them.
There is an interesting archaeological and historical element to the story here, which could have been made more of, and the brief surfacing of romance detracted rather than added to the story, but nevertheless, this was a fun and compulsive read.
There is an interesting archaeological and historical element to the story here, which could have been made more of, and the brief surfacing of romance detracted rather than added to the story, but nevertheless, this was a fun and compulsive read.
September 29, 2024
Another fantastic part of the continuing story, a trip to China via Switzerland and family.
A good read, but a slightly different angle as much of the story is the adventures of Ben Hope and gang across rural China. The story could have spent a lot longer on the discovery of the library, which is something I expected given what the prologue alluded to.
As enjoyable to read as ever.
A good read, but a slightly different angle as much of the story is the adventures of Ben Hope and gang across rural China. The story could have spent a lot longer on the discovery of the library, which is something I expected given what the prologue alluded to.
As enjoyable to read as ever.
May 25, 2025
This was not Ben Hope at its best. Poor storyline. Felt rushed and filled in with plots that were not likeable or at time la readable. Reckon if you skipped 10 chapters in the middle you would not miss much. Very disappointed.
September 22, 2025
excellent, I've only got 3 more to read, so get writing more please
May 19, 2024
I love the series, my favourite thriller series. However I enjoy the series most when Ben is with the rest of the Le Vale crew; Jeff, Tuesday and even Ghost.
The mythical aspects are usually the most interesting aspect but I felt this plot was underwhelming and somewhat predictable. We never truly got to meet the bad guys.
China has great potential as a setting but again this aspect was somewhat underwhelming.
Still a great read and enjoyable instalment but falls short of some of the series greats.
The mythical aspects are usually the most interesting aspect but I felt this plot was underwhelming and somewhat predictable. We never truly got to meet the bad guys.
China has great potential as a setting but again this aspect was somewhat underwhelming.
Still a great read and enjoyable instalment but falls short of some of the series greats.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2024
The Golden Library is the twenty-ninth book in the Ben Hope series, and this time the action takes place in China. Ben is visiting his sister, Ruth, in Switzerland to celebrate her engagement to Stefan, when news comes in that her fiancé’s sister, Lara, has been kidnapped in China. As Ben has a lot of experience recovering kidnap victims, and Ruth has the business contacts to get him into the country quickly, he is the ideal man for the job.
At the heart of the mystery lies an ancient secret dating back to the first emperor and the legendary Terracotta Army, a secret that people will still kill for, millennia later.
As with all books of this type, suspension of disbelief is required, but don’t forget it’s fiction so just enjoy the story. Apparently the author has not been to China (neither have I), but I am not looking to read a travel guide – the world building was convincing enough for me.
This assignment is made tougher as he does not speak the language. The local police are not very helpful, but assign a female officer to assist him. Unsurprisingly, they are ambushed and only escape due to quick thinking on Ben’s part. Thereafter, they are on the run from both the police and the criminals, constantly looking over their shoulder with no idea who (if anyone) they can trust. The historical mystery is seamlessly woven into the narrative, and it becomes clear that Lara’s disappearance is connected. The action sequences are impressive, and build to a tense and gripping finale.
There are a lot of books featuring characters in the same vein as Ben Hope, but while I do read some others they never quite come up to scratch. I have been a big fan since the very beginning and am looking forward to reading the thirtieth book, The Templar Secret, when it comes out in November.
At the heart of the mystery lies an ancient secret dating back to the first emperor and the legendary Terracotta Army, a secret that people will still kill for, millennia later.
As with all books of this type, suspension of disbelief is required, but don’t forget it’s fiction so just enjoy the story. Apparently the author has not been to China (neither have I), but I am not looking to read a travel guide – the world building was convincing enough for me.
This assignment is made tougher as he does not speak the language. The local police are not very helpful, but assign a female officer to assist him. Unsurprisingly, they are ambushed and only escape due to quick thinking on Ben’s part. Thereafter, they are on the run from both the police and the criminals, constantly looking over their shoulder with no idea who (if anyone) they can trust. The historical mystery is seamlessly woven into the narrative, and it becomes clear that Lara’s disappearance is connected. The action sequences are impressive, and build to a tense and gripping finale.
There are a lot of books featuring characters in the same vein as Ben Hope, but while I do read some others they never quite come up to scratch. I have been a big fan since the very beginning and am looking forward to reading the thirtieth book, The Templar Secret, when it comes out in November.
March 12, 2025
This book was so good! I was disappointed by the previous one, The Tudor Deception; however, The Golden Library delivers it all. It's so compelling and fast-paced that you get hooked right in.
From the start, I was drawn to this book and couldn't get enough. China and its history are so intriguing, I find it quite a fascinating topic. The plot is so vivid; we have danger lurking the moment they land in, and it's an unknown territory to the hero. We get the historical bit, the mystery, the suspense - an honestly magnificent thriller. That's exactly how I like them, and if a book keeps you glued to it, wanting to keep on reading, then that's a sure sign it's a really good one. I genuinely missed the exciting, action-packed stories of Ben Hope. This one totally brought back the fate that the character has a lot more to give. I love seeing Ben visit new places and exploring some mystery related to that country. I hope Mariani writes a few more novels (as I don't see new ones on the horizon) and chooses some new ventures for Ben, some new territory to explore. The more mystifying, the better.
I genuinely liked this new love interest we had here, they did have the chemistry from the start. I think it'd be nice to give Ben a permanent lady friend. We also haven't heard about his son Jude for the past I don't know how many books. It was indeed interesting to meet with his sister Ruth again, keeps adding to the plot and keeping up with people in Ben's life. I really hope the next book is just as good, I'm so hyped to read more right now; I can't wait to dive into Ben's world again!
Fingers crossed, Scott Mariani gives us many more books with Ben Hope - these are the best thrillers I've ever read and my favourite series in the genre!
From the start, I was drawn to this book and couldn't get enough. China and its history are so intriguing, I find it quite a fascinating topic. The plot is so vivid; we have danger lurking the moment they land in, and it's an unknown territory to the hero. We get the historical bit, the mystery, the suspense - an honestly magnificent thriller. That's exactly how I like them, and if a book keeps you glued to it, wanting to keep on reading, then that's a sure sign it's a really good one. I genuinely missed the exciting, action-packed stories of Ben Hope. This one totally brought back the fate that the character has a lot more to give. I love seeing Ben visit new places and exploring some mystery related to that country. I hope Mariani writes a few more novels (as I don't see new ones on the horizon) and chooses some new ventures for Ben, some new territory to explore. The more mystifying, the better.
I genuinely liked this new love interest we had here, they did have the chemistry from the start. I think it'd be nice to give Ben a permanent lady friend. We also haven't heard about his son Jude for the past I don't know how many books. It was indeed interesting to meet with his sister Ruth again, keeps adding to the plot and keeping up with people in Ben's life. I really hope the next book is just as good, I'm so hyped to read more right now; I can't wait to dive into Ben's world again!
Fingers crossed, Scott Mariani gives us many more books with Ben Hope - these are the best thrillers I've ever read and my favourite series in the genre!
June 23, 2025
A decent addition to the Ben Hope series, offering the usual mix of action, historical intrigue, and globetrotting adventure. While it delivers on the fast-paced thrills fans expect quite well, it falls short in some areas, making it a middle-of-the-road entry in the series.
While the plot is entertaining, it falls short of the standards set by the earlier books in the series. The villains lack depth, coming across as generic antagonists rather than memorable threats. Additionally, some of the dialogue and character interactions can feel a bit clichéd, lacking the emotional weight or complexity that would elevate the story. The pacing also stumbles in places, with certain sections dragging before rushing toward the climax. The resolution feels somewhat underwhelming, leaving a few loose ends untied.
Overall, a pleasant read, but not one that stands out as memorable.
While the plot is entertaining, it falls short of the standards set by the earlier books in the series. The villains lack depth, coming across as generic antagonists rather than memorable threats. Additionally, some of the dialogue and character interactions can feel a bit clichéd, lacking the emotional weight or complexity that would elevate the story. The pacing also stumbles in places, with certain sections dragging before rushing toward the climax. The resolution feels somewhat underwhelming, leaving a few loose ends untied.
Overall, a pleasant read, but not one that stands out as memorable.
June 29, 2024
A bit slow going. A bit prejudiced against Chinese culture and society. P162 a pathetic attempt to hide the fact that the Chinese have concentration camps for the ethnic Muslims, the Uygurs. These camps have been covered by Channel 4 news as well as other media outlets and non main stream media. Yet Scott Mariani uses the mouth of the character Shi Yun to deny these atrocities and insist that they are myths created by Western Media. If Shi Yun was one of the bad guys this would be different. But she's one of the good guys so coming from her mouth this is blatant denial of attempts by the Chinese government to ethnically cleanse the Uygurs. Appalled by Scott Mariani for this awful prejudice. Given two stars because in past books I've liked Ben Hope as a character.
October 23, 2024
Ben Hope is attending his sister's engagement party in Switzerland when news comes that her fiancees sister has disappeared in China. Despite wanting him to give up his life style and settle down, Ruth asks Ben to go to China and find her sister-in-law to be. Thus, Ben sets off on another adventure to a place he has never been before and one where he will feel as comfortable and as confident as he usually does.
Unfortunately, this book is not as exciting as others in the series. It doesn't have the pedal to the metal action that others have and is a bit more stop start. It doesn't have the cohesiveness of other stories, with the ending being kind of drawn out as they travel and then a sudden ending. The stop-start action that is through the book. A bit disappointing.
Unfortunately, this book is not as exciting as others in the series. It doesn't have the pedal to the metal action that others have and is a bit more stop start. It doesn't have the cohesiveness of other stories, with the ending being kind of drawn out as they travel and then a sudden ending. The stop-start action that is through the book. A bit disappointing.
November 11, 2024
My first Ben Hope story and the first book I've read by Mariani.
It's a little far-fetched in places but was an entertaining, gripping read.
I'm aware Mariani admitted as such, but I found his depiction of China to be very biased and inaccurate at times, something I noticed as I have recently spent some time there. Part of it is the little things that a little bit of extra research could have fixed, and I felt the depiction was overly negative or even offensive in certain passagss. I tried not to get it in the way of the story, and despite having to suspend my belief at times, I still enjoyed it overall.
It's a little far-fetched in places but was an entertaining, gripping read.
I'm aware Mariani admitted as such, but I found his depiction of China to be very biased and inaccurate at times, something I noticed as I have recently spent some time there. Part of it is the little things that a little bit of extra research could have fixed, and I felt the depiction was overly negative or even offensive in certain passagss. I tried not to get it in the way of the story, and despite having to suspend my belief at times, I still enjoyed it overall.
August 19, 2025
itle: The Golden Library
Author: Scott Mariani
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a mystery/Thriller/ Action/Adventure book.
Ben Hope is called to China to locate a missing girl. This leads him on an adventure through China. He will encounter the Chinese history so old it takes him to the legendary terra-cotta army. The problem is he has to survive long enough to save the girl and the history, people are sworn to protect .
This is my first Scott Mariani book. I love the action and the fast pace. It was a great mystery thriller book. Which is why I don’t have a quote for it because I was so into the book I didn’t think to save a quote.
Author: Scott Mariani
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a mystery/Thriller/ Action/Adventure book.
Ben Hope is called to China to locate a missing girl. This leads him on an adventure through China. He will encounter the Chinese history so old it takes him to the legendary terra-cotta army. The problem is he has to survive long enough to save the girl and the history, people are sworn to protect .
This is my first Scott Mariani book. I love the action and the fast pace. It was a great mystery thriller book. Which is why I don’t have a quote for it because I was so into the book I didn’t think to save a quote.
August 11, 2024
A blast from start to finish
When I pick up Ben Hope story, I can't put it down, I finish it in 24 to 48 hrs once I start, I can't wait to start the story to get lost in the story and delve into the kindness yet the incredible toughness of Ben Hope as ex SAS yet a heart of gold and the thoughts and turmoil he goes through and yet the story telling Scott has you're totally lost and riding along every bump and jut in the road of their journey in the flatbed with the chickens to the heart stopping moment where you want to close your eyes and wonder what's going to happen in the open sea. Can't wait for the next instalment, that's the only problem, once you start the story, you finish it so quickly you're left high and dry waiting for the next instalment
When I pick up Ben Hope story, I can't put it down, I finish it in 24 to 48 hrs once I start, I can't wait to start the story to get lost in the story and delve into the kindness yet the incredible toughness of Ben Hope as ex SAS yet a heart of gold and the thoughts and turmoil he goes through and yet the story telling Scott has you're totally lost and riding along every bump and jut in the road of their journey in the flatbed with the chickens to the heart stopping moment where you want to close your eyes and wonder what's going to happen in the open sea. Can't wait for the next instalment, that's the only problem, once you start the story, you finish it so quickly you're left high and dry waiting for the next instalment
October 15, 2024
Ben Hope Super hero
I have just finished book 29 in the Ben Hope series. I've read all 29 in a matter of weeks and I have to say it was one of the best series I've read recently. I couldn't put the book down once I'd started the story lines were believable and interesting, Ben is definitely a super hero helping people get out of situations they found themselves in. When I f inished one book I had to start on the next one straight away, and now I've read all 29 I am hoping Scott Mariani will be writing more about Ben, Jeff Decker and their adventures.
I have just finished book 29 in the Ben Hope series. I've read all 29 in a matter of weeks and I have to say it was one of the best series I've read recently. I couldn't put the book down once I'd started the story lines were believable and interesting, Ben is definitely a super hero helping people get out of situations they found themselves in. When I f inished one book I had to start on the next one straight away, and now I've read all 29 I am hoping Scott Mariani will be writing more about Ben, Jeff Decker and their adventures.
March 2, 2025
#audiobook Accidentally found this on Borrowbox. Thought I’d found another Reacher-like series esp when I saw how many books are in the series already. But alas, no. This is like a lite-version of Reacher, with none of the charm and all the arrogance of the American, with shallow and stilted dialogues and cringey romance.
I may give another title a go just to see if this is just a bad phase. But I don’t have high hopes.
Anyhow, the chinese history(ish) stuff is laid out pretty well but no doubt inaccurate in many ways.
I may give another title a go just to see if this is just a bad phase. But I don’t have high hopes.
Anyhow, the chinese history(ish) stuff is laid out pretty well but no doubt inaccurate in many ways.
May 23, 2024
Here we go, for another Ben Hope rollercoaster - a new country, fast-paced action, historical significance, deadly enemies and fun all the way. This was trademark Mariano and the actually plot of the Golden Library was Intriguing but didn’t take centre stage enough for me. I would have liked a bit more on this instead of the repeat action sequences that seemed a bit 2D compared to normal
However, still a great read in a fantastic series. Bring on more Ben Hope for sure!
However, still a great read in a fantastic series. Bring on more Ben Hope for sure!
August 13, 2024
Scott’s novels have consistently deliver that fast-paced, fast-chase, action thrillers that appeal when I want easy reading. The Golden Library is certainly no different. Short chapters with never-ending twists and turns usually mean it’s a struggle to put the book down.
Usual fare for Ben Hope, but the Falange Gong themes were a little “off” for me. Dim Mak I can understand- albeit a soupçon - but..
But an exciting novel that has me looking for the next Ben Hope read.
Mac
Usual fare for Ben Hope, but the Falange Gong themes were a little “off” for me. Dim Mak I can understand- albeit a soupçon - but..
But an exciting novel that has me looking for the next Ben Hope read.
Mac
November 6, 2024
I've always enjoyed Scott Mariani's Ben Hop series and this was another fantastic addition. It was refreshing to have Ben in a country he had no ties to and little to no knowledge about, plus the addition of not speaking the local language. Our hero is well out of his depths, but with the help of some newfound family and friends, he manages to save lives and seek justice in the end! I also appreciated the inclusion of Chinese history, ancient beliefs and practices and Qi culture.
August 3, 2025
Typical Ben Hope plot of 'find the missing (insert appropriate item/person) and return to rightful owner. This time it's a missing person and the country of choice is China.
I have read the vast majority of the Ben Hope series, but this one doesn't quite hit the mark. The different elements of the story didn't really gel together, although the research that Mariani does is impressive and definitely makes some of those elements very interesting.
I have read the vast majority of the Ben Hope series, but this one doesn't quite hit the mark. The different elements of the story didn't really gel together, although the research that Mariani does is impressive and definitely makes some of those elements very interesting.
August 15, 2025
This is the 29th book in the Ben Hope series.
Ben's at his sister Ruth's engagement party when unexpected events send him to China. His mission? To find Ruth's missing future sister-in-law. Ben also finds himself thinking about a question his sister asked him: can he ever leave all the trouble behind and have the normal life he deserves?
It's an action-packed, fast-paced story, just like the others.
Ben's at his sister Ruth's engagement party when unexpected events send him to China. His mission? To find Ruth's missing future sister-in-law. Ben also finds himself thinking about a question his sister asked him: can he ever leave all the trouble behind and have the normal life he deserves?
It's an action-packed, fast-paced story, just like the others.
September 24, 2025
A relaxed family get together in Switzerland quickly turns into a rescue mission in China. Ben Hope is urged to help his sister’s future in laws when they hear their daughter has gone missing in China.
He is a stranger in a strange land. He needs to discover what is going on and work out how to solve the mystery surrounding Laura’s disappearance. He faces communication difficulties and limited resources however is determined to keep promises made.
He is a stranger in a strange land. He needs to discover what is going on and work out how to solve the mystery surrounding Laura’s disappearance. He faces communication difficulties and limited resources however is determined to keep promises made.
June 26, 2024
I liked story is allocated in Chine where everything is different from what Ben's used.
Ben finds some allies in the ground providing him resources he needs but he is alone in enemy's ground.
There is a moment when the bad guy receives a call from his boss requesting him to act but it's never explained who this big boss is and that's reason to score 3 instead 4 to this book.
Ben finds some allies in the ground providing him resources he needs but he is alone in enemy's ground.
There is a moment when the bad guy receives a call from his boss requesting him to act but it's never explained who this big boss is and that's reason to score 3 instead 4 to this book.
July 17, 2024
Once again Ben Hope finds himself being pulled into a difficult situation and having to use his expertise to help a friend in need.
The story bowls along at a good pace and the characters are both likeable and unlikeable depending on which side they are on.
Not quite so many action scenes as in the earlier books but still plenty to keep you interested.
The story bowls along at a good pace and the characters are both likeable and unlikeable depending on which side they are on.
Not quite so many action scenes as in the earlier books but still plenty to keep you interested.
August 16, 2024
Another gripping Scott Mariani novel
Once again, Ben takes on unseemably unstoppable adversaries but wins through. Despite this being the 29th book in the series, it is as fresh as ever and difficult to put down. As well as the gripping adventure plot, Mariani again teases the reader with a romantic interest and weaves his family into the storyline.
Once again, Ben takes on unseemably unstoppable adversaries but wins through. Despite this being the 29th book in the series, it is as fresh as ever and difficult to put down. As well as the gripping adventure plot, Mariani again teases the reader with a romantic interest and weaves his family into the storyline.
November 26, 2024
I have read every single Ben Hope book since Scott Mariani started the series. As usual, it was a page turner and I read it within 2 day. However, this one was a little tame compared to most of the others...maybe Mariani is making Hope slow down now he must surely be heading towards middle age. 😊. Still a good read though and already lining up no.30 in the series ready to start.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews