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Cerberus Group #1
Herculean
THE SECRET MUST BE KEPT…
For three thousand years, the Herculean Society has preserved the legacy of the ancient hero, Hercules, protecting history’s fragile relics from humanity, and humanity from the dangerous truths behind the legends. Now, the Society’s new leader, archaeologist George Pierce, faces his first test: the Cerberus Group. The shadowy organization has two goals: the collection and distribution of black market relics, tech and secrets, and the purge of those deemed unfit for survival.
Pierce and his niece, Fiona—the last guardian of the ‘mother tongue,’ the forgotten language of creation—discover a secret entrance to the legendary Labyrinth, and at its heart, a hidden trove of relics that point the way to Hercules’s greatest discovery: a mutagen that can rewrite the very code of life. When a surprise attack leaves Pierce and Fiona trapped in the deadly maze, fighting for their lives, the race to stop the Cerberus Group begins.
To defeat this new enemy, Pierce must assemble a team of experts including Felice Carter, a geneticist with a dangerous secret, Augustina Gallo, a mythology professor, Cintia Dourado, a high tech hacker, and Lazarus, a dead soldier returned to life.
Guided by their knowledge of science, history and mythology, Pierce’s team sets out on an epic journey, following in the footsteps of Hercules, to stop Cerberus from controlling the power that rises from the Well of Monsters.
…OR THE WORLD WILL BE CLEANSED.
Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis, the international bestselling team behind the Jack Sigler thrillers, including Savage and Cannibal, return with new series that rewrites the way we see history. Rivaling the best of Matthew Reilly and James Rollins, Herculean combines a blistering pace with fringe science and myths reborn.
For three thousand years, the Herculean Society has preserved the legacy of the ancient hero, Hercules, protecting history’s fragile relics from humanity, and humanity from the dangerous truths behind the legends. Now, the Society’s new leader, archaeologist George Pierce, faces his first test: the Cerberus Group. The shadowy organization has two goals: the collection and distribution of black market relics, tech and secrets, and the purge of those deemed unfit for survival.
Pierce and his niece, Fiona—the last guardian of the ‘mother tongue,’ the forgotten language of creation—discover a secret entrance to the legendary Labyrinth, and at its heart, a hidden trove of relics that point the way to Hercules’s greatest discovery: a mutagen that can rewrite the very code of life. When a surprise attack leaves Pierce and Fiona trapped in the deadly maze, fighting for their lives, the race to stop the Cerberus Group begins.
To defeat this new enemy, Pierce must assemble a team of experts including Felice Carter, a geneticist with a dangerous secret, Augustina Gallo, a mythology professor, Cintia Dourado, a high tech hacker, and Lazarus, a dead soldier returned to life.
Guided by their knowledge of science, history and mythology, Pierce’s team sets out on an epic journey, following in the footsteps of Hercules, to stop Cerberus from controlling the power that rises from the Well of Monsters.
…OR THE WORLD WILL BE CLEANSED.
Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis, the international bestselling team behind the Jack Sigler thrillers, including Savage and Cannibal, return with new series that rewrites the way we see history. Rivaling the best of Matthew Reilly and James Rollins, Herculean combines a blistering pace with fringe science and myths reborn.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2015
101 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Jeremy Robinson
164 books2,609 followersJeremy Robinson is the New York Times bestselling author of seventy novels and novellas, including Apocalypse Machine, Island 731, and SecondWorld, as well as the Jack Sigler thriller series and Project Nemesis, the highest selling, original (non-licensed) kaiju novel of all time. He’s known for mixing elements of science, history and mythology, which has earned him the #1 spot in Science Fiction and Action-Adventure, and secured him as the top creature feature author. Many of his novels have been adapted into comic books, optioned for film and TV, and translated into thirteen languages. He lives in New Hampshire with his wife and three children. Visit him at www.bewareofmonsters.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 30, 2015
This was an action packed ride featuring Greek mythology, in particular, the labors of Hercules. This is a new series spinning off from the Jack Sigler series and features some of the characters in those books.
This one centers around the Herculean Society whose members are tasked from actually keeping some discoveries from becoming known to the world because it would bring more trouble than it is worth. Of course, it isn't fun if we don't throw in the bad guys, known as the Cerberus Group. Throw in some hybrids, a monster or two, a girl who is the last person on Earth that knows the Mother Tongue, (the oldest known language that has magical qualities), and some fun twists and turns, and you have a thrilling ride in the vein of Matthew Reilly and James Rollins.
I enjoyed the heck out of this one and was extra thrilled to see a character I love return in this book! I am super excited to see what happens next!
This one centers around the Herculean Society whose members are tasked from actually keeping some discoveries from becoming known to the world because it would bring more trouble than it is worth. Of course, it isn't fun if we don't throw in the bad guys, known as the Cerberus Group. Throw in some hybrids, a monster or two, a girl who is the last person on Earth that knows the Mother Tongue, (the oldest known language that has magical qualities), and some fun twists and turns, and you have a thrilling ride in the vein of Matthew Reilly and James Rollins.
I enjoyed the heck out of this one and was extra thrilled to see a character I love return in this book! I am super excited to see what happens next!
January 31, 2025
George Pierce is the new leader of the Herculean Society, a secret organization dedicated to protecting humanity from the truth behind the myths and legends of the ancient world. He and his niece, Fiona, discover the secret entrance to the fabled Labyrinth. Relics at its heart point the way to a discovery that could revolutionize genetic science. But of course there are unscrupulous forces who will stop at nothing to get their hands on such a find, and the race is on …
A cover blurb declares that, “Jeremy Robinson is the next James Rollins,” (Chris Kuzneski.) I admire the restraint it took not to add an exclamation point, and the comparison is apt. Both write propulsive, gripping thrillers with exotic settings, military-trained teams of explorers, discoveries on the bleeding edge of science … Both owe a huge debt to classic adventure pulps, particularly the Doc Savage stories.
Robinson has carved out a niche for himself by mining Greek myths and legends for material. The Herculean Society was started by Hercules himself, who deliberately exaggerated his exploits as a way of hiding the truth behind them: discoveries that, in the wrong hands, could prove catastrophic–deadly creatures, powerful weapons, plagues, longevity potions, etc. It's a fun conceit, and Robinson has a knack for putting just enough of a modern spin on, say, the Hydra, or Cerberus, to make them believable. I first read his work years ago. I think I saw an ad for one of his books in the back pages of a Lincoln Child novel, or maybe it was Steve Alten? Anyway, I was really into thrillers at the time, and definitely enjoyed the few Jeremy Robinson books I was able to find. That they *were* hard to find--he’d only written about four or five books at the time– was the only thing that kept me from reading further. Looking at the bibliography pages at the front of this book, I see he's been quite prolific. It helps that he collaborates with others so much, I suppose. But, from his earlier work, I know he's got the writing chops.
As I said, this book was quite the ride. Robinson and Ellis are clearly top notch thriller writers. The characters are memorable, the set pieces spectacular, the concepts fun, and the locales scenic. Recommended!
A cover blurb declares that, “Jeremy Robinson is the next James Rollins,” (Chris Kuzneski.) I admire the restraint it took not to add an exclamation point, and the comparison is apt. Both write propulsive, gripping thrillers with exotic settings, military-trained teams of explorers, discoveries on the bleeding edge of science … Both owe a huge debt to classic adventure pulps, particularly the Doc Savage stories.
Robinson has carved out a niche for himself by mining Greek myths and legends for material. The Herculean Society was started by Hercules himself, who deliberately exaggerated his exploits as a way of hiding the truth behind them: discoveries that, in the wrong hands, could prove catastrophic–deadly creatures, powerful weapons, plagues, longevity potions, etc. It's a fun conceit, and Robinson has a knack for putting just enough of a modern spin on, say, the Hydra, or Cerberus, to make them believable. I first read his work years ago. I think I saw an ad for one of his books in the back pages of a Lincoln Child novel, or maybe it was Steve Alten? Anyway, I was really into thrillers at the time, and definitely enjoyed the few Jeremy Robinson books I was able to find. That they *were* hard to find--he’d only written about four or five books at the time– was the only thing that kept me from reading further. Looking at the bibliography pages at the front of this book, I see he's been quite prolific. It helps that he collaborates with others so much, I suppose. But, from his earlier work, I know he's got the writing chops.
As I said, this book was quite the ride. Robinson and Ellis are clearly top notch thriller writers. The characters are memorable, the set pieces spectacular, the concepts fun, and the locales scenic. Recommended!
August 25, 2015
It is always great when Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis get together and write a new Chess Team adventure. It is even better when they write the start of a whole new series with an exciting new team,new adventures and a few familiar names!
The Herculean Society led by archaeologist George Pierce has to face the Cerberus group, a new and deadly enemy. George and his niece Fiona join with Felice Carter, Cintia Dourado,Augustina Gallo and a very mysterious warrior named Lazarus. Each has different knowledge and skill that will come together on their journey to stop Cerberus,find hidden artifacts and make an amazing discovery.
If you love thrills,action, mystery and danger you won't want to miss this book. It is the start of a fantastic new series.
The Herculean Society led by archaeologist George Pierce has to face the Cerberus group, a new and deadly enemy. George and his niece Fiona join with Felice Carter, Cintia Dourado,Augustina Gallo and a very mysterious warrior named Lazarus. Each has different knowledge and skill that will come together on their journey to stop Cerberus,find hidden artifacts and make an amazing discovery.
If you love thrills,action, mystery and danger you won't want to miss this book. It is the start of a fantastic new series.
May 13, 2024
4.5 stars.
Another brilliant read by the authors.
Love the new direction for some old characters, and it's looking like this is ANOTHER series I have to read.
*sigh*
Recommend you try some Robinson/Ellis.
Another brilliant read by the authors.
Love the new direction for some old characters, and it's looking like this is ANOTHER series I have to read.
*sigh*
Recommend you try some Robinson/Ellis.
May 17, 2020
4 stars.
This book is action pack. A lot of things going on. It keep you interested.
Note:
I had a few others books that I have been reading. However, I drop them all after a couple of chapters. There were different reasons for this. It was nice to have a good book to read. I finish this sometime last month. I am just late with updating.
I would recommend this book to those that like action books
This book is action pack. A lot of things going on. It keep you interested.
Note:
I had a few others books that I have been reading. However, I drop them all after a couple of chapters. There were different reasons for this. It was nice to have a good book to read. I finish this sometime last month. I am just late with updating.
I would recommend this book to those that like action books
May 2, 2017
4.25 Stars
August 16, 2015
Herculean by Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis is an action packed ride through Greek mythology centering around the great hero Hercules and the task of cleaning up after his exploits. If you are into books about secret societies as well as mythology I highly recommend you give this a read, it takes the old tales and gives them a fresh new spin that will peak your curiosity and leave you reading late into the night. I cannot wait for the next installment in this exciting new story line.
May 24, 2023
What a great beginning for a new series. Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis have hit it out of the park with this book. The story is fast-paced and full of surprises, and there are some familiar faces from the Chess Team series. The Herculean Society is intriguing and their mission to search for and protect everything that involves Hercules keeps you reading. I loved the introduction of the Cerberus Group and am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 27, 2015
I loved this book, an offshoot of the Chess Team books, but with characters and a vibrancy all its own. I strongly suggest you read all the Chess Team books beforehand, but even if you don't, this is a sweet story (it'll make you want to read them after though, lol). Action, monsters, cool story lines. Read it!
August 5, 2015
Absolutely amazing! One of my top favorites from Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis. I really hope they continues on with this series.
February 28, 2016
What if Hercules wasn't a mythical figure but an actual man who lived three thousand years ago and was a scientific genius, who learned how to modify his own genes to allow him to live for centuries, and to combine the DNA of different life forms to create new animals and monsters?
What if the Labors of Hercules, as told in the myths, in which Hercules encountered and fought various monsters, actually told of his interaction with some of these new, manufactured species?
And what if Hercules had created the Herculean society, a group of scientists, historians, and military experts with the express goal of hiding the secrets of history and science he had uncovered and make sure that they would never fall into the wrong hands?
And what if now, an international criminal organization called Cerberus, led by a maniac intent on learning the ancient secrets, was on the cusp of attaining control of the very secrets Hercules strove to hide, secrets that would give it control over life itself, allow it to create new strains of viruses and disease, to lay waste to much of humanity, if it so wished?
That is the premise of this fine adventure novel, written by Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis, and narrated by Jeffery Kafer.
The novel is a fast-paced, action-packed sci-thriller, full of gun fights, villains, monsters, biology, history, mythology, and history, all blended together into one hell of an enjoyable tale. The book made me feel like learning more about Hercules and Greek Mythology. And Kafer's narration was solid and fit the narrative well.
This isn't great literature, but it is well-written, it moves very quickly, and I had a very good time with it.
Note: This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast com
What if the Labors of Hercules, as told in the myths, in which Hercules encountered and fought various monsters, actually told of his interaction with some of these new, manufactured species?
And what if Hercules had created the Herculean society, a group of scientists, historians, and military experts with the express goal of hiding the secrets of history and science he had uncovered and make sure that they would never fall into the wrong hands?
And what if now, an international criminal organization called Cerberus, led by a maniac intent on learning the ancient secrets, was on the cusp of attaining control of the very secrets Hercules strove to hide, secrets that would give it control over life itself, allow it to create new strains of viruses and disease, to lay waste to much of humanity, if it so wished?
That is the premise of this fine adventure novel, written by Jeremy Robinson and Sean Ellis, and narrated by Jeffery Kafer.
The novel is a fast-paced, action-packed sci-thriller, full of gun fights, villains, monsters, biology, history, mythology, and history, all blended together into one hell of an enjoyable tale. The book made me feel like learning more about Hercules and Greek Mythology. And Kafer's narration was solid and fit the narrative well.
This isn't great literature, but it is well-written, it moves very quickly, and I had a very good time with it.
Note: This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast com
September 6, 2015
YES! YES! YES! That is all that needs to be said.
December 9, 2018
I’ve been on a bit of a Robinson renaissance lately. After 5 new novels in 2018 alone, and my renewed fandom in his works after his newest Alter, it only seemed the right thing to go straight into another book I somehow glanced over previously.
Now, I originally had some slight doubts with this one, as I still haven’t finished the original run of the Chess Team novels (and the other like 20 Robinson novels I Still haven’t gotten around to reading) and I know a lot of what happens in the 4 I haven’t read directly impacts the events of Herculean, but the good news is all those doubts can be swept aside.
As has seemed to be pretty much par the course with anything Robinson writes with Ellis, Herculean is a ton of fun, continuing many of the exploits of the original Chess Team, but also managing to be its own complete, standalone story.
And a good story it is. Sure some of the nonstop, over the top action that is usually in Robinson’s novels is dialed back a bit, replaced with more history and ancient fictional characters, but that makes this a far more deep, compelling story, reminiscent and similar to many of James Rollins’s Sigma Force novels.
Looking forward to Helios and, hopefully, more Cerberus Group novels on the near horizon.
Now, I originally had some slight doubts with this one, as I still haven’t finished the original run of the Chess Team novels (and the other like 20 Robinson novels I Still haven’t gotten around to reading) and I know a lot of what happens in the 4 I haven’t read directly impacts the events of Herculean, but the good news is all those doubts can be swept aside.
As has seemed to be pretty much par the course with anything Robinson writes with Ellis, Herculean is a ton of fun, continuing many of the exploits of the original Chess Team, but also managing to be its own complete, standalone story.
And a good story it is. Sure some of the nonstop, over the top action that is usually in Robinson’s novels is dialed back a bit, replaced with more history and ancient fictional characters, but that makes this a far more deep, compelling story, reminiscent and similar to many of James Rollins’s Sigma Force novels.
Looking forward to Helios and, hopefully, more Cerberus Group novels on the near horizon.
May 24, 2020
I don't know about this one. I probably should have loved this as I am super into Greek mythology and legend. But the story here kind of, well... sucks.
You're thrown right into the story from page one and there is not a whole lot done to introduce you to characters and moving forward there is virtually no character development. Even on the mythology front, it was nice to see so much inclusion of it, but things just felt out of place? Like there was too much attention on the stories from the past, but relatively zero concentration on how it was delivered from characters.
At times the premise of the story sounded very silly and all of the "thrills" that happen don't do much to improve the reading experience. Not much enjoyment on my side this time around, would probably put this at 1 - 1.5 stars. But if you aren't into character and plot development you may enjoy this more than I did.
You're thrown right into the story from page one and there is not a whole lot done to introduce you to characters and moving forward there is virtually no character development. Even on the mythology front, it was nice to see so much inclusion of it, but things just felt out of place? Like there was too much attention on the stories from the past, but relatively zero concentration on how it was delivered from characters.
At times the premise of the story sounded very silly and all of the "thrills" that happen don't do much to improve the reading experience. Not much enjoyment on my side this time around, would probably put this at 1 - 1.5 stars. But if you aren't into character and plot development you may enjoy this more than I did.
February 15, 2024
This is the first Jeremy Robinson book I've read, and I must say that I enjoyed every minute of this book. There were only a few areas where the book slowed down for me, but otherwise, it was action-packed from beginning to end.
I've already ordered the second book in this series. I hope it's just as fun as this one. Robinson's writing reminds me a lot of Matthew Reilly, whose books are always fun and exciting.
In this book, all the adventures we've read about Hercules actually happen, and a secret society is created to keep his protect his secrets from the world, but are soon faced with an adversary in a group called Cerberus.
It was a quick read, and a perfect pallet cleanser after reading Tracy Groot's "Madman". I needed a book to get me excited about reading again. I hope the sequel is nearly as good as the original.
I've already ordered the second book in this series. I hope it's just as fun as this one. Robinson's writing reminds me a lot of Matthew Reilly, whose books are always fun and exciting.
In this book, all the adventures we've read about Hercules actually happen, and a secret society is created to keep his protect his secrets from the world, but are soon faced with an adversary in a group called Cerberus.
It was a quick read, and a perfect pallet cleanser after reading Tracy Groot's "Madman". I needed a book to get me excited about reading again. I hope the sequel is nearly as good as the original.
July 29, 2020
HERCULEAN and the second novel with the same characters, HELIOS, by Jeremy Robinson are two great thrillers. Each has adventurous stories of a group of individuals of the Herculean Society that search out the hero, Hercules, in story and myth. Modern day quests to protect the world from evil, such as a story of stopping the finding of a gene mutagen that may lead to immortality, or a unknown satellite causing massive earthquakes, find a team of the society tracing Hercules' adventures to stop these threats.
Jeremy Robinson writes great sci-fi stories you have to read today. One of mine, and many favorite authors.
Jeremy Robinson writes great sci-fi stories you have to read today. One of mine, and many favorite authors.
January 23, 2021
Immortality...
The story covers the dark history of a Nazi survivor that faked his death and is still trying to extend his life. Fiona is a young woman that speaks a dialect of the original tongue. She and her partners are forced to help a madman open the gates of the underworld.
The story covers the dark history of a Nazi survivor that faked his death and is still trying to extend his life. Fiona is a young woman that speaks a dialect of the original tongue. She and her partners are forced to help a madman open the gates of the underworld.
May 7, 2017
So many secrets finally revealed! Alexander might be gone, but his legacy lives on—along with so many mysteries. This book brings answers to questions left open in earlier Chess Team books. It also sets the foundation for a powerful new parallel series with thrilling potential.
July 10, 2018
I was looking for a lot more from this book. It was a good story but a book that I could put down at anytime. There was nothing that really gripped me to want to keep reading other that wanting to finish the book. I am not sure if I will read the second book in the series.
July 22, 2018
This was a good,action b packed book.The Herculean group ws set up to protect the history of Hercules.When the Cerberous group find their way into the labrynth to steal relics for a long lived mad man,someone has to defend them.A fine twist of myth and history.Jeffrey Kafer was a good narator.
May 7, 2019
When a good narrator sounds bored you know the book isnt going to be any good and this one definatly was no good. George is a wishy washy hero...and even bringing Bishop back from the dead can't save it.
December 28, 2021
Mythology rewritten.
We learn that Hercules was a real person who lived an extended life span. He established a secret society to protect the truth,but another more sinister society wanderlust knowledge.
We learn that Hercules was a real person who lived an extended life span. He established a secret society to protect the truth,but another more sinister society wanderlust knowledge.
June 23, 2023
Mehhhh
It is a sort of history lesson on mythology with some odd twists thrown in and a bit of action. Overall, I found it very slow and all over the place. It never came together in a cohesive story and ended abruptly.
It is a sort of history lesson on mythology with some odd twists thrown in and a bit of action. Overall, I found it very slow and all over the place. It never came together in a cohesive story and ended abruptly.
August 28, 2024
Herakles the...Hero?
Exciting and explosive story with people we (Jeremy Robinson fans) know but in an unexpected mission. Save the world from monsters. Both human and legendary. Great book!
Exciting and explosive story with people we (Jeremy Robinson fans) know but in an unexpected mission. Save the world from monsters. Both human and legendary. Great book!
March 20, 2016
I found the story a great blend of action, suspense of if they are safe and don't let that fall into 'his' hands and what danger is around the next corner, along with a history blend of supernatural and science. Greek myths and Indian Jones set in current times with a science reasoning. I was fascinated with the creation of the Herculean Society and the history of Hercules as we go through the book. Pierce and Fiona are quick with their history. They keep us in tune with what and when in the time frame of history things were made, cultures existed, and that there are artifacts found that don't fit with the age that they are in.
I definitely want to continue with the amazing team created here!
****FULL REVIEW****
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.
Fiona Sigler is getting her first feel of breaking and entering along with finding hidden treasures as part of the Herculean Society. She and Uncle George are retrieving the Phaistos disc as they believe the strange symbols are found one other place in the world, a cave wall not far from the museum in Crete. They have sworn to help keep Hercules's scientific finds secret. Realizing at the last moment, they're being tracked at each turn by Liam Kenner who wants to expose the old, secret society and George Pierce then to profit from what he finds. Kenner also works for another who wishes to reveal the genetic code the creatures that once existed from the Well of Monsters, to create hybrid monsters of old and new. But there's more hidden. The Mother Tongue, the first and forgotten language that none other than Fiona can speak.
Jeffrey becomes the story for me as I listen, as he always does. He does different voices and accents for the characters. He accents the story vocally. Jeffrey's voice is strong and he doesn't give away the end of the story, no vocal cues to what is a solid hint to how all will end. His vocal cadence feels as it's steady through the story yet there are moments I feel as we are moving faster, but we are not. It's the stories flow that comes through strong with his sonant.
We have a list of characters we work with; George Pierce, Fiona Sigler, Augustina Gallo, Felicia Carter, Eric Lazarus, and a few others. All have long dangerous histories. They have lived through terrible things and it makes them all special as well. They are strong, brilliant people.
We get a great deal of the story from Fiona and Pierce's POV. There are others that are secondary characters who's eyes we see through as well. I love the relationship between Pierce and Fiona. George Pierce is Fiona Sigler's uncle, by nature not blood. This is a family feel to the adventures with a love and care for each other instead of desire. We always need more family affiliated characters! I get a kick out of Pierce making mental notes to himself when he finds himself in a tight spot, something he needs to carry with him at all times. If he carried everything, he'd be weighed down. lol. Fiona has her own spark of humor that she carries through the book. A few gave me a great visual and others made me smile.
This book holds my attention with a balance of action, suspense - will they get caught? will they live? - and information to grow the world and characters. Oh to have a print book in my hands...I'd go nuts with the colored sticky notes, and love every minute of it! Wow. Just over half way and the book is non-stop! The events all characters are working through are dangerous with what feels as no safety in sight. I enjoy a great book with lots happening and new details flying at me, keeps the brain pumping.
And as much as I love this about a fasted paced book, I struggled for a moment too. It's not really a problem as it's good too. There was so much happening at one time in the book that I wasn't sure what all was found, happening, and resulted. It felt convoluted. I could use listening to it again to catch more information as I know I missed details.
There is an element of paranormal mixed with the science, and there are spots that still surprised me with the sudden turn of events at mention of information. Genetic testing on humans...with mythical creature DNA in the serums. I was shocked! Did not see that coming. Though should have. But how when the genetics of the Well of Monsters wasn't found yet?
I found the story a great blend of action, suspense of if they are safe and don't let that fall into 'his' hands and what danger is around the next corner, along with a history blend of supernatural and science. Greek myths and Indian Jones set in current times with a science reasoning. I was fascinated with the creation of the Herculean Society and the history of Hercules as we go through the book. Pierce and Fiona are quick with their history. They keep us in tune with what and when in the time frame of history things were made, cultures existed, and that there are artifacts found that don't fit with the age that they are in.
I definitely want to continue with the amazing team created here!
I definitely want to continue with the amazing team created here!
****FULL REVIEW****
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.
Fiona Sigler is getting her first feel of breaking and entering along with finding hidden treasures as part of the Herculean Society. She and Uncle George are retrieving the Phaistos disc as they believe the strange symbols are found one other place in the world, a cave wall not far from the museum in Crete. They have sworn to help keep Hercules's scientific finds secret. Realizing at the last moment, they're being tracked at each turn by Liam Kenner who wants to expose the old, secret society and George Pierce then to profit from what he finds. Kenner also works for another who wishes to reveal the genetic code the creatures that once existed from the Well of Monsters, to create hybrid monsters of old and new. But there's more hidden. The Mother Tongue, the first and forgotten language that none other than Fiona can speak.
Jeffrey becomes the story for me as I listen, as he always does. He does different voices and accents for the characters. He accents the story vocally. Jeffrey's voice is strong and he doesn't give away the end of the story, no vocal cues to what is a solid hint to how all will end. His vocal cadence feels as it's steady through the story yet there are moments I feel as we are moving faster, but we are not. It's the stories flow that comes through strong with his sonant.
We have a list of characters we work with; George Pierce, Fiona Sigler, Augustina Gallo, Felicia Carter, Eric Lazarus, and a few others. All have long dangerous histories. They have lived through terrible things and it makes them all special as well. They are strong, brilliant people.
We get a great deal of the story from Fiona and Pierce's POV. There are others that are secondary characters who's eyes we see through as well. I love the relationship between Pierce and Fiona. George Pierce is Fiona Sigler's uncle, by nature not blood. This is a family feel to the adventures with a love and care for each other instead of desire. We always need more family affiliated characters! I get a kick out of Pierce making mental notes to himself when he finds himself in a tight spot, something he needs to carry with him at all times. If he carried everything, he'd be weighed down. lol. Fiona has her own spark of humor that she carries through the book. A few gave me a great visual and others made me smile.
This book holds my attention with a balance of action, suspense - will they get caught? will they live? - and information to grow the world and characters. Oh to have a print book in my hands...I'd go nuts with the colored sticky notes, and love every minute of it! Wow. Just over half way and the book is non-stop! The events all characters are working through are dangerous with what feels as no safety in sight. I enjoy a great book with lots happening and new details flying at me, keeps the brain pumping.
And as much as I love this about a fasted paced book, I struggled for a moment too. It's not really a problem as it's good too. There was so much happening at one time in the book that I wasn't sure what all was found, happening, and resulted. It felt convoluted. I could use listening to it again to catch more information as I know I missed details.
There is an element of paranormal mixed with the science, and there are spots that still surprised me with the sudden turn of events at mention of information. Genetic testing on humans...with mythical creature DNA in the serums. I was shocked! Did not see that coming. Though should have. But how when the genetics of the Well of Monsters wasn't found yet?
I found the story a great blend of action, suspense of if they are safe and don't let that fall into 'his' hands and what danger is around the next corner, along with a history blend of supernatural and science. Greek myths and Indian Jones set in current times with a science reasoning. I was fascinated with the creation of the Herculean Society and the history of Hercules as we go through the book. Pierce and Fiona are quick with their history. They keep us in tune with what and when in the time frame of history things were made, cultures existed, and that there are artifacts found that don't fit with the age that they are in.
I definitely want to continue with the amazing team created here!
December 1, 2020
Great adventure as usual.
Its fun to follow the further adventures of the chess teams secondary characters. Happy to see Lazarus joining the crew with his lady Carter.
Its fun to follow the further adventures of the chess teams secondary characters. Happy to see Lazarus joining the crew with his lady Carter.
October 11, 2025
3.5 stars I liked the characters. As usual Robinson delivered with some unique monsters and crazy action scenes.
March 16, 2017
Herculean
Wow . . . . All I can say is wow . It's good to very end . Unexpected person shows up to stay and fight. It's definitely a must read
Wow . . . . All I can say is wow . It's good to very end . Unexpected person shows up to stay and fight. It's definitely a must read
March 16, 2016
A solid 4.5/5 rating!
Herculean is a thriller that Indiana Jones and Fox Mulder would both love. It combines action with mythological and historical elements. As with other Jeremy Robinson novels I have listened to, the writing is superb and the pacing of the plot is tight. This is a very action based thriller and truly felt like a roller coaster ride, once I had started there was no place to pause to get a breather til the end. I hope that JR follows more mythological storylines in the sequels because he has a winning formula here, IMO. My one knock on the story is that I think there are characters in Herculean that have appeared in some of JR’s other books that I haven’t read, like the Chess Team series. There were some character interactions that I felt I was missing the nuances of because I didn’t get the context completely. It didn’t stop me from enjoying the book and I will definitely be getting the inevitable sequel, but I think JR, being the extremely prolific writer he is (the guy CAN'T have a life the way he churns out books!), needs to provide some sort of chronological reference if he is going to crossover characters from one series to another… That knock applies also to his Kaiju series also (which I HIGHLY recommend!).
The audio was problem-free and the narrator was very talented, having the ability to consistently give each of the characters their own unique voice and his timing and inflection was spot on.
Bottom Line: Herculean is an exciting historical mythological thriller well told. If Jeremy Robinson isn't one of the authors on your "Watch out for" list, then you haven't been paying attention to this prolific, talented, and imaginative author and you are missing out on some fantastic listening experiences.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
Herculean is a thriller that Indiana Jones and Fox Mulder would both love. It combines action with mythological and historical elements. As with other Jeremy Robinson novels I have listened to, the writing is superb and the pacing of the plot is tight. This is a very action based thriller and truly felt like a roller coaster ride, once I had started there was no place to pause to get a breather til the end. I hope that JR follows more mythological storylines in the sequels because he has a winning formula here, IMO. My one knock on the story is that I think there are characters in Herculean that have appeared in some of JR’s other books that I haven’t read, like the Chess Team series. There were some character interactions that I felt I was missing the nuances of because I didn’t get the context completely. It didn’t stop me from enjoying the book and I will definitely be getting the inevitable sequel, but I think JR, being the extremely prolific writer he is (the guy CAN'T have a life the way he churns out books!), needs to provide some sort of chronological reference if he is going to crossover characters from one series to another… That knock applies also to his Kaiju series also (which I HIGHLY recommend!).
The audio was problem-free and the narrator was very talented, having the ability to consistently give each of the characters their own unique voice and his timing and inflection was spot on.
Bottom Line: Herculean is an exciting historical mythological thriller well told. If Jeremy Robinson isn't one of the authors on your "Watch out for" list, then you haven't been paying attention to this prolific, talented, and imaginative author and you are missing out on some fantastic listening experiences.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
September 14, 2016
Check out this and all my reviews at Brian's Book Blog
New world meets the old in this fast-paced adventure
Hercules was known for many things throughout history — stories of his power and conquests reached many. The Herculean Society’s main goal is to continue the legacy of Hercules by not letting other uncover some of the most dangerous and worst things in the world.
Narration for Herculean was done by Jeffrey Kafer, who like always does an incredible job. Kafer really knows how to elevate books and make them even more enjoyable. Kafer makes Robinsons already awesome work even more awesome (yeah, I went there).
The start of this book really confused me, but don’t be confused for long. It starts off in a bizarre place, but then quickly goes to the “current” time where the Herculean Society exists.
The group was a really awesome hodgepodge of people from different backgrounds making each new character that was introduced new and different. I love when an author can introduce numerous people but make the reader still feel like they know and understand each of them. Each new person had something different about them that made them both stand out and more interesting.
The book itself was fast-paced and really well written. I found myself being drawn deeper and deeper into the story as it progressed. Herculean grabs you by the haunches and won’t let go. Mixing old-world myth with new world technology.
Robinson still gets to stretch his typical monster writing style here, but it is at a minimum compared to some of his other works.
I was given a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
New world meets the old in this fast-paced adventure
Hercules was known for many things throughout history — stories of his power and conquests reached many. The Herculean Society’s main goal is to continue the legacy of Hercules by not letting other uncover some of the most dangerous and worst things in the world.
Narration for Herculean was done by Jeffrey Kafer, who like always does an incredible job. Kafer really knows how to elevate books and make them even more enjoyable. Kafer makes Robinsons already awesome work even more awesome (yeah, I went there).
The start of this book really confused me, but don’t be confused for long. It starts off in a bizarre place, but then quickly goes to the “current” time where the Herculean Society exists.
The group was a really awesome hodgepodge of people from different backgrounds making each new character that was introduced new and different. I love when an author can introduce numerous people but make the reader still feel like they know and understand each of them. Each new person had something different about them that made them both stand out and more interesting.
The book itself was fast-paced and really well written. I found myself being drawn deeper and deeper into the story as it progressed. Herculean grabs you by the haunches and won’t let go. Mixing old-world myth with new world technology.
Robinson still gets to stretch his typical monster writing style here, but it is at a minimum compared to some of his other works.
I was given a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
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