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Trust No One

Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26
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From the #1 New York Times bestselling master of international intrigue comes a shocking new stand-alone thriller that thrusts a group of university students, falsely accused of murder, into a treacherous hunt across Europe, all to unlock the secrets buried within a centuries-old book that could change humankind forever.

Knowledge can be magic—until it falls into the wrong hands.

The ritualistic murder of a British professor at the University of Exeter points to a startling cast of his own students. All are enrolled in a postgraduate program covering the history of witchcraft, folklore, and spiritualism.

All evidence points to Sharyn Karr—an American student. Prior to the professor’s death, he had thrust a centuries-old book upon her. It appears to be the handwritten and encrypted diary of an eighteenth-century mystic and occultist, the Comte de Saint-Germain. The professor begged her to keep the text safe, ending with a warning.

Trust no one.

Such a responsibility forces her into cooperation with Duncan Maxwell, a fellow postgrad and the sixteenth in line to the British Crown. Already, Duncan has proven himself a savant with encryptions. Unfortunately, the pair clash at every level, but they both need one another. Especially when they discover the book’s opening Herein lies the secret to my immortality. Come find me, if you dare.

As dark forces close upon the pair, she and her friends are forced to flee, pursued by law enforcement and hunted by a powerful cabal. In an explosive chase across Europe—from the Tower of London to Parisian chateaus to a fortress in the Italian Alps—Sharyn must learn the true secret hidden in Saint-Germain’s text. It will send her and the others across history and deep into the heart of one of the world’s greatest mysteries, a secret buried at the roots of Western Civilization, a discovery that could topple empires and change humanity forever.

For what lies at the end of Saint-Germain’s diary is as shocking as its opening words.

432 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication February 24, 2026

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14332 people want to read

About the author

James Rollins

126 books14.3k followers
James Rollins is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of international thrillers. His writing has been translated into more than forty languages and has sold more than 20 million books. The New York Times says, “Rollins is what you might wind up with if you tossed Michael Crichton and Dan Brown into a particle accelerator together.” NPR calls his work, “Adventurous and enormously engrossing.” Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets matched with stunning suspense. As a veterinarian, he had a practice in Sacramento for over a decade and still volunteers at local shelters. Nowadays, Rollins shares his home up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains with two furry companions, Echo and Charlie. He also enjoys scuba diving, spelunking, kayaking, and hiking. Of course, he loves to travel and experience new places around the world, which often inspire his next globe-trotting adventure.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for James.
Author 20 books4,371 followers
December 30, 2025
When you like an author, and in particular one of their bigger series runs, you might click to buy or download their latest without reading the description, right? I'm usually good about checking first, only because I'm up to over 100 series I read, and between that and new authors, or authors who don't write a series, I have more than I can actually read in a given year. This time, I didn't check and assumed this book was Rollins' latest Sigma Force book. But it wasn't. I have enjoyed his other work, so I dove in. Great new characters. Loved the historical connections. Sad at the death and injuries. Everything I love about Sigma but with new characters. So it worked out. Take a chance sometimes; that's my new year lesson.
Profile Image for Kat (Ginger Bibliophile on YouTube).
328 reviews2 followers
October 13, 2025
I fricking loved it! It was everything I enjoy about his Sigma Force series, but with fresh young characters in a stand alone. The witch side felt a little tenuous aside from a setting to get everyone together, but the mystery, the action, the various locations…so good!!
181 reviews3 followers
October 10, 2025
Let me start by thanking Netgalley for extending this advanced copy to me for this review in return. James Rollins is still at the top of his game, as you can not help but learn something while enjoying the tale he spins. A true historical fiction master. Imagine that you could trust no one, but were thrust into the biggest burden of your life. Sharyn, a student of the occult at Exeter University has this very dilemma. No knowing where else to turn, she shares her secret with her closest friends and then a couple more to make five altogether. Can five University students outwit the powerful groups of people targeting them to get the secrets that they currently hold? And along they way, who can they trust? Humanity's future depends on their decoding the past first.
22 reviews
October 12, 2025
James Rollins is back and showing the world why he is my favorite author. An absolute edge of your seat thriller. As usual, Rollins combines history and adventure in a way only he can. Starting with a ritualistic murder, in the most haunted place in England, on Halloween? Quintessential Rollins. Sharyn is thrust into a centuries old mystery when she is entrusted to be the keeper of an artifact of unimaginable promise and mystery with a simple instruction….trust no one.

You’ve got it all here. History, cryptic texts to solve, mysteries to unravel, danger, betrayal, twists and turns galore. The writing is perfectly paced, the characters are fantastic. Hugh is by far my favorite. The group dynamics are amazing, with each character adding weight and expertise to the task. As the characters race across Europe, the imagery and detail are fantastic. As much as I love my Sigma family (of which I have read them all!), this standalone by Rollins may be one of my favorite stories by him.

5 stars. Perfect. A huge thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review!
Profile Image for Marianne Fuller Lamb.
11 reviews
November 23, 2025
Brilliant!! This book is Amazing!! The book is full of adventure, and factual history about a very famous character that goes beyond time! Saint-Germain is as relevant today as he was centuries ago. The Saint-Germain trust is very real and active along with his treasures!! It is about to help mankind! The characters in this book flowed together with fun, amusement, and loyalty! Do not miss out on this jewel!! 🎉🎊📚🔦🔍🐦‍⬛🐾
Profile Image for Sheri.
327 reviews22 followers
October 18, 2025
“Trust No One” by James Rollins is a fun edge of your seat historical mystery.
A book that holds that holds the secrets of the world and has been guarded for centuries by a series of keepers is given to an American student studying abroad to guard after her professors violent death. A vicious clandestine group will stop at nothing including murder to get hold of the book. Determined to find the secrets held within the book, our heroine and a group of her close friends journey their way across Europe hunted by this network of men & women.
This book is a gripping adventure filled with mystery and myth.

Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for LindaPf.
758 reviews68 followers
November 30, 2025
When I think of James Rollins’ books, I put him in the same category as Dan Brown. Beautifully intricate thrillers with a myriad of international symbols unfolding across exotic locations with an esoteric quest, sometimes including mind-blowing tech, but often otherworldly themes or objects attracting good guys and bad guys.

“Trust No One” is a standalone, unrelated to the popular Sigma Force books, that stars a magical book, given by a professor at the University of Exeter (which really offers coursework in occult science) to one of his students with the caveat “trust no one.” In this thriller, we are reminded that magic is just knowledge that remains inexplicable to us.

This thriller follows five students thrown together in a race for their lives as they protect the mysterious locked book from the villainous people who are indiscriminately killing people in order to obtain the treatise. Sharyn, the student who was given the book, involves her two roommates and then two others at Exeter. Eventually, we see how each person has a skill set that helps them.

Rollins, like Dan Brown, is a master at weaving historical facts and real locations together to create a plot. This is a high stakes thriller that includes discussions of possibly real alchemical reactions and the quest for the Elixir of Life (along with caverns of Nazi-looted treasures that Indiana Jones would enjoy).

The author includes various medieval illustrations and maps that keep your sense of wonder soaring. The main characters, with later assistance from other good guys, are all extremely well developed as we learn what parts of their past experiences are assisting them now. I loved how the book introduced us to somewhat obscure locales, and I did find myself looking up a lot of his references. It was totally engrossing and I hated to see it end. 5 stars!

Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Naomi has forest-green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Rollins includes a lot of esoteric botanical knowledge like Morretti’s bellflowers that only grow in the Dolomites, or that the moat around the Tower of London was seeded with millions of flowers for a Superbloom.

Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Profile Image for cheybaebae.
81 reviews
November 17, 2025
Thank you to James Rollins, the publisher and NetGalley for the free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

James Rollins never disappoints!
I always learn new things reading his works, a true master of weaving fact and fiction. It is one of the many reasons I enjoy his writing so much.

With the non-stop action, the traveling from country to country, the history, the puzzles, the danger, the betrayal, the sprinkle of romance. It's giving National Treasure, da Vinci Code, Indian Jones vibes. As is what I have come to expect from James Rollins and what I love most about his books.

When I saw Trust No One was a standalone my heart rejoiced! It's been what? Two decades since he's written a standalone (don't quote me on that)? Oh, how I've missed them. Amazonia is my absolute favorite. While Trust No One didn't quite surpass it, it's one of his best.

If you are looking for a fast-paced, suspenseful adventure enriched by history and a mystery lost to time and puzzles I highly recommend this. Follow Sharyn, as she unwittingly becomes the thirteenth keeper of a book with many secrets, and the target of those who want it at all costs.

Happy reading, my friends!



Profile Image for Stacey Robinson.
153 reviews22 followers
October 23, 2025
Actually 4.5 stars

It’s been ages since I’ve read James Rollins, and “Trust No One” reminded me exactly why I used to love his books. This stand-alone thriller grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go. A group of university students find themselves entangled in a web of secrets that span the occult, history, and modern-day mystery. What follows is a fast-paced chase across Europe—one mystery after another, packed with edge-of-your-seat twists and revelations.

Rollins layers the story beautifully, giving depth to both plot and character. The combination of action, historical intrigue, and the supernatural works seamlessly here. The characters are strong, believable, and easy to root for. Overall, a gripping, multilayered read that kept me guessing to the very end—and I’m so glad I requested it.

Thank you NetGalley and the Publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. I appreciate the opportunity. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mike.
72 reviews
October 21, 2025
First, I’d like to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the advanced edition of this book that allows me to provide an honest review.

*Trust No One* is a masterfully crafted thriller that blends historical intrigue, cryptic puzzles, and relentless action. James Rollins weaves a gripping tale involving a mysterious murder, a centuries-old diary, and a secret that could alter the course of humanity. As Sharyn Karr and Duncan Maxwell race across Europe to unlock the diary’s secrets, they face deadly enemies and shocking revelations. The mix of occult mystery, academic suspense, and high-stakes adventure is perfectly paced and deeply engaging. With sharp writing, clever twists, and immersive detail, this book is a must-read for fans of smart, fast-moving historical thrillers. Rollins delivers again.

Would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Aprilcots.
206 reviews4 followers
October 28, 2025
It’s been a while since I’ve read a James Rollins book, so I forgot what a fantastic ride they can be. This one is a stand alone book about some well meaning grad students trying to save a rare and magical book from falling into the clutches of the evil secret catholic organization that’s hunting them down to literally steal the book and steal the knowledge and steal the treasure. Very Indiana Jones meets Dan Brown meets Lara Croft. Is it over the top ridiculous at times? Yes it is. There are caves and blizzards and grenades and feral cats and drugs and secret passages and romps across Europe. Is it an enjoyable master class in escapism meets vaguely dubious history and science? Also yes. A fun, adventurous, enjoyable read, which is where Rollins really excels. Thank you Net Galley for this advance reader copy.
Profile Image for Cynde.
745 reviews23 followers
October 30, 2025
Sharyn Carr, a post -grad student at University of Exeter , is helping her professor unpack rare books in the University Libraries special collections when the professor receives a frantic phone call. He thrust a wrapped book into Sharyn's hands and tells her to take it out of the library and hide it and tell no-one she has it. He says he will come for it but if something happens to him to call the number he gives her for instructions. This begins a death defying chase to keep the book safe and to solve the clues to the treasure. Two secret societies are vying for the book and the treasure it supposedly leads to. At anytime Sharyn and her friends are in danger and have no Idea who they can trust.
The author blends historical facts and fiction to create a thrilling read. Reader's who enjoy Dan Brown, Matthew Reilly and Steve Berry will enjoy this quest. I enjoyed the book.
Profile Image for Sharon  Jones.
63 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2025
I want to thank Netgalley and William Morrow for this ARC copy in exchange for my review. This is an excellent thriller packed with action from beginning to end. We have our main character entrusted with a very important historical book. With the help of her four college friends, the adventure to keep this book out of the hands of a nefarious organization that will evidentally take them through Europe begins. I would have liked to have had a bit more character development, but the incredible action and writing that only James Rollins is capable of creating makes up for it. Stand-alone book definitely worth reading.
Profile Image for Mike Stafford.
205 reviews10 followers
November 28, 2025
If you get Trust No One and expect it to be as good as a Sigma Force adventure, you'll be disappointed. That's only because Rollins has set the bar so dang high with his Sigma Force series. If you read Trust No One as a standalone (which it is), you'll find it's a lot of fun. I think it will really appeal to fans of the Cotton Malone stories by Steve Berry. I mean that as high praise. Trust No One certainly has no shortage of thrills as the action is fast and furious. It's the sort of adventure I daresay none of us had in college. Rollins certainly picked the perfect title for this story because each chapter reminds you to trust no one.
1 review
August 25, 2025
★★★★★ "A Non-Stop, High-Stakes Chase Across Europe!"
"From the very first chapter, this book slams the pedal down and doesn't let up. A thrilling blend of occult history, cryptic puzzles, and explosive international pursuit. Sharyn and Duncan's contentious partnership is the perfect engine for this story you'll be desperately turning pages as they leap from the Tower of London to remote Italian fortresses. If you love a conspiracy thriller with a mystical edge, clear your schedule. This one is pure, addictive magic.
227 reviews5 followers
October 12, 2025
Trust No One by James Rollins

I am a HUGE fan of Rollins' books. Not only does he provide a fast paced, high action thriller, but he exposes me to so many REAL mysteries and new technologies and overall fun facts. This book meets all criteria for a fabulous Rollins novel. It is stand alone too, so it's a great option for people new to his books.
This particular book skirts the occult, witches, and WWII treasure stealing.

Fantastic read. Five stars.

#bookreview #2025 #thriller #occult #stgermaine #WWII #treasure #netgalley
Profile Image for Katrina.
148 reviews
October 12, 2025
A new James Rollins is always an occasion. Rollins is one of my all-time favorite authors (Sigma Force is one of my all-time favorite series). His new stand-alone thriller, Trust No One, is a whirlwind thriller full of history, intrigue, mystery, and murder. Falsely accused of murder, Rollins' characters race across Europe, dodging the authorities (and more sinister forces) while trying to crack the secrets of a cryptic book that may change their lives, and the world, forever.

Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the advance reader's digital copy. #TrustNoOne #NetGalley
279 reviews9 followers
October 21, 2025
James Rollins continues to amaze! In this standalone novel, we see a British professor murdered on Halloween. All evidence points to his post grad students. Sharyn, a student that was gifted an artifact and cryptically told to trust no one, is the prime suspect. She teams up with Duncan and three others to figure out the secrets before they are killed or framed. James mixes the history with the adventure like no one else. The characters are spot on, and the plot keeps you invested the whole way. Can't wait for his next one.
Profile Image for Val.
678 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 16, 2025
Loved this thriller. The action never stopped in this historically based novel. The author is at the top of his game as he introduces the reader to a young Oklahoma woman studying in England. The action begins in the library where old treasures\d artifacts are kept. The director of the library gives the girl a book that she must protect with her life. Soon, she and her friends are running for their lives. The action spans countries and leaves the reader wanting to keep turning the pages. Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
Profile Image for David Jonescu.
107 reviews3 followers
October 19, 2025
Everything that James Rollins puts out is a must read. This is a run thriller that interweaves factual historical facts with some fun fiction. Overall the story was a fun read, even with at times I was questioning whether things could actually happen or not. The latter doesn’t change my thoughts of the book. Overall very fun read!

I received a free advanced copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Katie Oeschger.
73 reviews3 followers
October 30, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for a prerelease of Trust No One.

This was my first James Rollins novel. If you love movies like National Treasure, you’ll adore this book. A group of students find themselves on the run for a crime they didn’t commitment. Trust no one they were warned…perhaps even amongst themselves? I loved the mix of suspense, action and adventure, history, and puzzle solving. This book was full of twists and unexpected turns. Now I’ll definitely read other James Rollins books.
Profile Image for Anna.
999 reviews10 followers
November 1, 2025
Netgalley ARC- This one was very slow to start but like some of his other works, it got really good and then a bit reminiscent of his Sigma series, but with a younger crowd. I enjoyed that his characters are fully developed and appreciate that his female characters are a strong as their male counterparts. The history and the science behind this are both intriguing and I will definitely be looking deeper.
Profile Image for Brittney Lou.
304 reviews44 followers
November 15, 2025
This book was a fast-paced and engaging read from start to finish. The mix of history, mystery, and action kept me interested, and the twists were solid without feeling over the top. The characters worked well together, and the story moved at a good pace. Overall, a good read that held my attention the whole way through.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy! I also won a physical copy of this from Goodreads. 🙃
Profile Image for Ryan Steck.
Author 10 books525 followers
August 31, 2025
Trust No One is Rollins at full throttle—an electrifying, stay-up-all-night thriller that proves once again no one blends history, myth, and pulse-pounding action quite like James Rollins. Trust me, do not miss this book.

Read my full, spoiler-free review here: https://therealbookspy.substack.com/p...
1,045 reviews4 followers
October 5, 2025
I have been fascinated by the historical figure, Saint-Germain, for most of my life and finding a novel in which his work is heavily featured made reading Trust No One a must - and I was not disappointed! What a non-stop adventure with historical facts thrown in! This is a must read for any history lover. I received an ARC from NetGalley, and the opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Kristin.
238 reviews
December 23, 2025
As a long time James Rollins fan, I don’t remember ever reading a book where the main characters were in college, and I really enjoyed that aspect of the story.
This had the same excitement as his older novels, and I really enjoyed the archeological mystery. I always love secrets hidden in old artifacts and Trust No One did not disappoint.

Thanks NetGalley for the eARC.
Profile Image for Debra.
231 reviews4 followers
September 3, 2025
Trust No One is a fast-paced, explosive thriller. Rollins delivers another gripping adventure combining action with history and myths.

Highly recommend adding Trust No One to your 2026 TBR. (Pub Date: Feb 24, 2026)

Profile Image for Desig.
553 reviews17 followers
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
October 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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