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Dan Kotler #6
The Stepping Maze
HISTORY HAS ITS SECRETS, AND SOMEONE WANTS THEM ALL.
Behind six feet of steel, buried under the streets of Manhattan, lies the Black Chamber--a room that once housed a team of codebreakers who would one day help to found the NSA.
"Imagine a writer that combines the best aspects of Cussler, Rollins, Berry, and Brown all into one. That's Kevin Tumlinson."
--Ernest Dempsey, Author of The Forbidden Temple
Abducted by a brutish professional killer, two physics professors are left with little food and limited air. Time is running out.
Agent Roland Denzel and Dr. Liz Ludlum are led to a government-sealed room by an unseen figure, where they find a century-old manuscript filled with riddles. Is it the key to opening the Black Chamber? What other secrets does it hold?
Dan Kotler returns in this codebreaking thriller, filled with enigmas, mysteries, and danger at every turn. Kotler must solve the Stepping Maze before time runs out ... for everyone.
The Stepping Maze is the sixth full-length novel in the Dan Kotler Archaeological thrillers.
Behind six feet of steel, buried under the streets of Manhattan, lies the Black Chamber--a room that once housed a team of codebreakers who would one day help to found the NSA.
"Imagine a writer that combines the best aspects of Cussler, Rollins, Berry, and Brown all into one. That's Kevin Tumlinson."
--Ernest Dempsey, Author of The Forbidden Temple
Abducted by a brutish professional killer, two physics professors are left with little food and limited air. Time is running out.
Agent Roland Denzel and Dr. Liz Ludlum are led to a government-sealed room by an unseen figure, where they find a century-old manuscript filled with riddles. Is it the key to opening the Black Chamber? What other secrets does it hold?
Dan Kotler returns in this codebreaking thriller, filled with enigmas, mysteries, and danger at every turn. Kotler must solve the Stepping Maze before time runs out ... for everyone.
The Stepping Maze is the sixth full-length novel in the Dan Kotler Archaeological thrillers.
- GenresFiction
302 pages, Paperback
Published January 25, 2019
383 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Tumlinson
73 books210 followersKevin Tumlinson is a thriller and speculative fiction author traveling the U.S. with his wife, an RV, a chihuahua named Mini, and a fully-loaded laptop. He writes multi-million-dollar blockbusters that can be read for only a few bucks.
Kevin grew up in Wild Peach Texas—an actual village wedged between the Brazos and San Bernard Rivers, with a population of less than 2,500 people and seemingly not a peach tree within a hundred miles of the place. He has had an eclectic career that includes engineering, teaching, broadcasting and media, and marketing. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards for writing, public speaking, and his work in advertising and marketing.
At the moment, Kevin—along with his wife and his dog—are traveling full-time in an RV, exploring the US as Kevin writes and promotes his books. The inside joke is that they are going on the worlds most far-ranging house hunt. They're only half joking.
Learn more about Kevin and his work on his website, and get one of his best books for FREE when you join his mailing list at kevintumlinson.com
Kevin grew up in Wild Peach Texas—an actual village wedged between the Brazos and San Bernard Rivers, with a population of less than 2,500 people and seemingly not a peach tree within a hundred miles of the place. He has had an eclectic career that includes engineering, teaching, broadcasting and media, and marketing. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards for writing, public speaking, and his work in advertising and marketing.
At the moment, Kevin—along with his wife and his dog—are traveling full-time in an RV, exploring the US as Kevin writes and promotes his books. The inside joke is that they are going on the worlds most far-ranging house hunt. They're only half joking.
Learn more about Kevin and his work on his website, and get one of his best books for FREE when you join his mailing list at kevintumlinson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 31, 2019
ANOTHER WOW!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kevin Tumlinson has added a new thriller to the Dan Kotler. Series. I loved it. Mr Tumlinson does so much research foe each Dan Kotler book that you have to learn something whether you want to or not. He does this and you don’t even realize you’re learning because the story itself keeps you riveted to the book. This one involved code breaking and the story was very complex yet exciting. There were many trials and tribulations, thrills and spills and of course a great mystery to be solved. I enjoyed every page. I can’t wait for the next book. Do your self a favor and start this series now. You won’t be disappointed!
January 26, 2019
This book brings Dan Kotler and his FBI friend into a different area, but the archeological knowledge is what it takes to advance the investigation into a pair of kidnapped professors being held hostage in a chamber deep under New York City. Suspense, intrigue, danger and old enemies fill the book. This time it is personal, as the situation is aimed directly at Dan. The style of writing makes for easy reading, and the narrative becomes quite compelling. You will stay engrossed in this book to the end.
April 6, 2019
The Stepping Maze - a review by Rosemary Kenny
With all the thrills of a WWII code-breaking spy drama, The Stepping Maze is Book 6 in the Dan Kotler Archeological Thriller series, by the amazing Kevin Tumlinson will keep you on the edge of your seat til the very last page.
Dan's brother Jeffery has been kidnapped, sealed in a suicide vest and used as a leverage to get Dan to solve an ancient Egyptian puzzle - the eponymous Stepping Maze. Two eminent scientists are held prisoner in a secret chamber and are due to suffocate within hours if Dan's not able to get their location from the terrorists.
Can Dan reveal the answer and get the mysterious-voiced villain to exchange the information for their lives? Buy your copy today and find out what happens next!
With all the thrills of a WWII code-breaking spy drama, The Stepping Maze is Book 6 in the Dan Kotler Archeological Thriller series, by the amazing Kevin Tumlinson will keep you on the edge of your seat til the very last page.
Dan's brother Jeffery has been kidnapped, sealed in a suicide vest and used as a leverage to get Dan to solve an ancient Egyptian puzzle - the eponymous Stepping Maze. Two eminent scientists are held prisoner in a secret chamber and are due to suffocate within hours if Dan's not able to get their location from the terrorists.
Can Dan reveal the answer and get the mysterious-voiced villain to exchange the information for their lives? Buy your copy today and find out what happens next!
October 6, 2020
A captivating series that revels in its "Dan Brown" esq
While I can see a bit of the Dan Brown series style, I think Kotler is very different from Langdon. The stories are not so highly developed in a religious historical vane, more technological and with the current selection, no religious content at all.
The two leading characters are easily connected to from previous books and I find myself quickly comfortable with their actions \reactions. I enjoy both of the series of Langdon and Kotler and realize some similarities... But I think to much is given to the comparison. To me, Langdon has a different "feel" and is always deeply steeped in religious mysteries and conspiracy theories, whereas Kotler is more of a reluctant investigator... Until he jumps in with typically two left feet, and requires "saving" at the end.... Which brings me to the end in this book, it seems to quick not enough detail how it all came about.... Though the author typically does not describe overly gory details, this really felt dropped off a cliff there at the climax.... How did she get the drop on him, how did Kotler end up shot in the chest, not all the gore is necessary, but the actual actions and technical aspects would have made it a bit more interesting..... All the same, great book and series. Fantastic characters and character development. Thank you!
While I can see a bit of the Dan Brown series style, I think Kotler is very different from Langdon. The stories are not so highly developed in a religious historical vane, more technological and with the current selection, no religious content at all.
The two leading characters are easily connected to from previous books and I find myself quickly comfortable with their actions \reactions. I enjoy both of the series of Langdon and Kotler and realize some similarities... But I think to much is given to the comparison. To me, Langdon has a different "feel" and is always deeply steeped in religious mysteries and conspiracy theories, whereas Kotler is more of a reluctant investigator... Until he jumps in with typically two left feet, and requires "saving" at the end.... Which brings me to the end in this book, it seems to quick not enough detail how it all came about.... Though the author typically does not describe overly gory details, this really felt dropped off a cliff there at the climax.... How did she get the drop on him, how did Kotler end up shot in the chest, not all the gore is necessary, but the actual actions and technical aspects would have made it a bit more interesting..... All the same, great book and series. Fantastic characters and character development. Thank you!
October 19, 2020
An enjoyable read about Dan Kotler
I enjoyed reading this book because of the elements of crime, intrigue, forensics, and enjoyable characters are all tumbled together. It will be a fun reader to others. To the author, I read your post comments (even though I usually avoid because the authors tend to be so pompass and talk down to their readers. You try not to do so. Thus I am going to beg to differ with you in your analogies and comparisons to other ficticious characters or books. Most you compare your writing to...those authors dive deeper into all the elements above as well as character breadth and depth. IMHO instead of this happening with the recurring characters in the book you spend your time in post comments developing the character....which should have been done along the way for the readers. We'd know a lot less if it were not in post comments. Again, IMHO I'd rather see the development in the book and story line. This issue may be because you say you write by the seat of your pants rather than developed storylines and in depth characters. The books are almost a gloss over. I believe there is a lot in your mind that does not make it to print...so you assume we get by osmosis or you have to explain in the post comments. I would love it in the books.
I enjoyed reading this book because of the elements of crime, intrigue, forensics, and enjoyable characters are all tumbled together. It will be a fun reader to others. To the author, I read your post comments (even though I usually avoid because the authors tend to be so pompass and talk down to their readers. You try not to do so. Thus I am going to beg to differ with you in your analogies and comparisons to other ficticious characters or books. Most you compare your writing to...those authors dive deeper into all the elements above as well as character breadth and depth. IMHO instead of this happening with the recurring characters in the book you spend your time in post comments developing the character....which should have been done along the way for the readers. We'd know a lot less if it were not in post comments. Again, IMHO I'd rather see the development in the book and story line. This issue may be because you say you write by the seat of your pants rather than developed storylines and in depth characters. The books are almost a gloss over. I believe there is a lot in your mind that does not make it to print...so you assume we get by osmosis or you have to explain in the post comments. I would love it in the books.
August 1, 2020
Best one yet!!
They just keep getting better! I've enjoyed all the Kotler books so far but this one helps flesh out the major characters and add to the depth of the storyline. I really enjoy the background information which serves as the foundation of each story. No fake alien invaders, no EMPs destroying the world or other hyperbolic twists. Just a straight "historical" artifact plus background science or information that is very plausible to set the story. Adding Liz Ludlum gives the story not only a female lead, it introduces a strong woman who may be Kotler's intellectual equal (or, perhaps his better) as well as someone who can handle herself in sticky situations. Will be interested to see her develop further as the books continue.
Also, the interactions of Kotler and Denzel range from humorous to personal. Each man brings a slightly different perspective which adds synergy to their team. Two Kotler or two Denzel personalities would be very dry and sometimes boring. The fact that they both seem to recognize their innate differences and how they blend their plans and activities to enhance each story adds a lot of value. Hoping there are a lot more adventures to come.
They just keep getting better! I've enjoyed all the Kotler books so far but this one helps flesh out the major characters and add to the depth of the storyline. I really enjoy the background information which serves as the foundation of each story. No fake alien invaders, no EMPs destroying the world or other hyperbolic twists. Just a straight "historical" artifact plus background science or information that is very plausible to set the story. Adding Liz Ludlum gives the story not only a female lead, it introduces a strong woman who may be Kotler's intellectual equal (or, perhaps his better) as well as someone who can handle herself in sticky situations. Will be interested to see her develop further as the books continue.
Also, the interactions of Kotler and Denzel range from humorous to personal. Each man brings a slightly different perspective which adds synergy to their team. Two Kotler or two Denzel personalities would be very dry and sometimes boring. The fact that they both seem to recognize their innate differences and how they blend their plans and activities to enhance each story adds a lot of value. Hoping there are a lot more adventures to come.
December 16, 2021
Enjoyable
I truly enjoyed this book. I love the archeology focus having read Elizabeth Peters and Christie. Cryptology is another fascinating focus and I loved the quantum entanglement and spooky action focus in the Heisenberg machines. I genuinely like the characters. Liz will be a good match for Dan. I loved reading Delta force novels and other thrillers by Rollins, was lamenting people didn't write more thrillers. I am reading everyone of these books and gave one to my son for Christmas. This is a truly talented author and I am so glad I found these books and am enjoying them so much. I highly recommend the to anyone who enjoys thrillers, history ,archeology and physics all rolled into one. Off to read another Kotler novel.
I truly enjoyed this book. I love the archeology focus having read Elizabeth Peters and Christie. Cryptology is another fascinating focus and I loved the quantum entanglement and spooky action focus in the Heisenberg machines. I genuinely like the characters. Liz will be a good match for Dan. I loved reading Delta force novels and other thrillers by Rollins, was lamenting people didn't write more thrillers. I am reading everyone of these books and gave one to my son for Christmas. This is a truly talented author and I am so glad I found these books and am enjoying them so much. I highly recommend the to anyone who enjoys thrillers, history ,archeology and physics all rolled into one. Off to read another Kotler novel.
September 17, 2022
A lot of mixed personalities.
This is one of the best novels about Dan Kotler, and Roland Denzel.
I hate comparisons.
Denzel IS NOT WATSON, and KOTLER IS NOT SHERLOCK HOLMES.
Neither they were Indiana Jones, or Robert Langdon.
I have to remind you that the first novel with Langdon character was "Angels and Demons" .
This novel didn't even be published. It was a complete waste.BUT, when the "Da Vinci's Code" was made a bestseller... then they resurrected the first one.
Kotler and Denzel are like Siamese twins. Interchangeable, but each one an independent being, never mind if they are attached by any part of the body not.
Thanks to everyone there whom this makes sense.
Monica Beltrami. Montevideo, Uruguay.
This is one of the best novels about Dan Kotler, and Roland Denzel.
I hate comparisons.
Denzel IS NOT WATSON, and KOTLER IS NOT SHERLOCK HOLMES.
Neither they were Indiana Jones, or Robert Langdon.
I have to remind you that the first novel with Langdon character was "Angels and Demons" .
This novel didn't even be published. It was a complete waste.BUT, when the "Da Vinci's Code" was made a bestseller... then they resurrected the first one.
Kotler and Denzel are like Siamese twins. Interchangeable, but each one an independent being, never mind if they are attached by any part of the body not.
Thanks to everyone there whom this makes sense.
Monica Beltrami. Montevideo, Uruguay.
February 11, 2023
OK, this book was nothing short of a super thriller, with more twists and turns than a two-lane road in the Alps! I know it sounds cliche to say I could not put it down once I started reading, but thems the truth. The puzzles and mysteries (yes, plural) were top-notch, well-constructed, and not easily solved. Or, truthfully, not solvable at all for the reader, which I freaking love. If I can predict the ending of any story, I tend to lose interest (and the author loses stars). For thriller/mystery/action aficionados, I highly recommend this book, as well as the entire Dan Kotler series (well, 1 - 6, at least. I’ll be tackling the last boxed set soon. Hopefully, 10 - 12 will be in a box set soon, as promised by Mr. Tumlinson).
February 5, 2019
My new favorite Kotler novel
Tumlinson has managed to out do himself in this newest installment of the Dan Kotler series.
When we last left Denzel and Kotler, they were wrapping up the mystery found in Antarctica. Kotler decided he needed a break, after personal and professional turmoil. This novel opens with Kotler working am archaeological dig in Egypt.
This break doesn't last long, as Denzel and the Historic Crimes division have a new case, with Kotler's name written all over it
I recommend this to any fans of Dan Brown, James Rollins, and even Indiana Jones. You won't be disappointed.
Tumlinson has managed to out do himself in this newest installment of the Dan Kotler series.
When we last left Denzel and Kotler, they were wrapping up the mystery found in Antarctica. Kotler decided he needed a break, after personal and professional turmoil. This novel opens with Kotler working am archaeological dig in Egypt.
This break doesn't last long, as Denzel and the Historic Crimes division have a new case, with Kotler's name written all over it
I recommend this to any fans of Dan Brown, James Rollins, and even Indiana Jones. You won't be disappointed.
February 10, 2019
Another page turner by Kevin. I love all his unique plots for each novel in this series. He continually develops his characters in each book as well as Dan and Roland's relationship. The Stepping Maze keeps you on your toes trying to figure out who the antagonist is and doesn't let the reader down in the end. I also like that at the end of this book Kevin talks about how he was inspired to create Dan's personality through other author's characters. He tells us how he gives a nod to these characters as a homage. If you have not read any of the prior books you can read this one, although I would recommend reading the entire series in order.
May 21, 2019
I love reading Kevin Tumlinson's books, and The Stepping Maze (Dan Kotler #6) is no exception. In fact, I think this is Kevin's best ever! It's a thriller that just won't quit. Everytime we seemed to be about to reach resolution, the game changes. I'm crazy about archeological thrillers, but this is so much more. Cryptological elements seasoned with quantum physics plus ongoing mysteries makes this book and series a humdinger!
And to make it even better, the author always follows the Epilogue with notes about many aspects of the story and his writing. Absolutely fascinating reading. I'd be depressed that I finished #6, but I've pre-ordered #7 and it's coming out in 2 days!
And to make it even better, the author always follows the Epilogue with notes about many aspects of the story and his writing. Absolutely fascinating reading. I'd be depressed that I finished #6, but I've pre-ordered #7 and it's coming out in 2 days!
December 2, 2019
Another hit!
Wow. Technically more detailed but still with a lot of action, adventure and yes, a more developed newish character. This book has a bit of everything. Violence, honor, love between family and respect between work associates. I highly recommend that any reader read the authors notes at the end of each book. The working mind of Mr. Tomlinson is quite fascinating. He answers questions about his process and the way his mind works. These revelations give the characters a depth beyond their lives within the proceeding story.
Wow. Technically more detailed but still with a lot of action, adventure and yes, a more developed newish character. This book has a bit of everything. Violence, honor, love between family and respect between work associates. I highly recommend that any reader read the authors notes at the end of each book. The working mind of Mr. Tomlinson is quite fascinating. He answers questions about his process and the way his mind works. These revelations give the characters a depth beyond their lives within the proceeding story.
September 26, 2020
How can I not give this book a 5 star
Exciting dangerous extreme contagious oh my word there is so much history in this book so many twists and secrets that are still probably hidden, and of course Dan is the central character the cheek of stealing his money and using it to set him up and it was all down to jealousy. Dan is back to solving puzzles Liz is kidnapped even his brother is drawn into this adventure and has Dan found peace after Gail with Liz. I recommend this book the fun the laughs the accusations suspicion and that's just Dan
Exciting dangerous extreme contagious oh my word there is so much history in this book so many twists and secrets that are still probably hidden, and of course Dan is the central character the cheek of stealing his money and using it to set him up and it was all down to jealousy. Dan is back to solving puzzles Liz is kidnapped even his brother is drawn into this adventure and has Dan found peace after Gail with Liz. I recommend this book the fun the laughs the accusations suspicion and that's just Dan
June 22, 2019
And yet another fantastic story involving Dan Kotler, Roland Denzel and Liz Ludlum - it is amazing to me how many different stories Kevin Tumlinson can weave out of these 3 characters. Of course, throughout the book, there are many other colourful and deadly characters to keep you on the edge of your seat. Can't wait to move on to the next book in this series.
March 29, 2020
Dan Kotler Rides Again
5 stars because it kept me reading til the end, has no gratuitous sex, no superfoul language. The book is based on actual historical facts used for fiction. It has believable characters and those characters are well developed. I've read a number of Mr. Tumlinson books with Kotler and each one has been a winner.
5 stars because it kept me reading til the end, has no gratuitous sex, no superfoul language. The book is based on actual historical facts used for fiction. It has believable characters and those characters are well developed. I've read a number of Mr. Tumlinson books with Kotler and each one has been a winner.
February 18, 2021
Another Case Assigns Itself to Dan Kotler
I like the author's characters, especially Dan Kotler. I enjoy the clever puzzles he has to solve and learning about the science and history involved. I enjoy the places his settings take me to. I love the action and suspense.
Every book has been an adventure.
I like the author's characters, especially Dan Kotler. I enjoy the clever puzzles he has to solve and learning about the science and history involved. I enjoy the places his settings take me to. I love the action and suspense.
Every book has been an adventure.
December 10, 2022
Was going to finish the series...
I was going to finish the series before writing a review but couldn't wait. So far all the books have been great but this is by far my favorite. The story line is imaginative and so creative. The characters develop more deeply. I can't really write anymore without spoiling the adventure. You'll have to read it yourself.
I was going to finish the series before writing a review but couldn't wait. So far all the books have been great but this is by far my favorite. The story line is imaginative and so creative. The characters develop more deeply. I can't really write anymore without spoiling the adventure. You'll have to read it yourself.
February 13, 2019
Ultra Exciting
Non stop action, plenty of unanswered question that come up after each one is answered. Great characters, witty daring imaginative. Could not put the book down and I did not want it to end.
Non stop action, plenty of unanswered question that come up after each one is answered. Great characters, witty daring imaginative. Could not put the book down and I did not want it to end.
February 16, 2019
Great read
The continuous questions make continuous reading inevitable. I was always waiting for answers leading to the next question. Definitely surprising answers.
The thoughtful progression of events kept me involved.
Thanks, Kevin, for such great entertainment.
The continuous questions make continuous reading inevitable. I was always waiting for answers leading to the next question. Definitely surprising answers.
The thoughtful progression of events kept me involved.
Thanks, Kevin, for such great entertainment.
April 25, 2019
Tumlinson's best thriller yet.
The Stepping Maze continues the adventures of archaeologist Dan Kotler. With more than an admitted hint of Indiana Jones in the style of Dan Brown, this latest epic will excite the literary taste buds of the most jaded pallet.
The Stepping Maze continues the adventures of archaeologist Dan Kotler. With more than an admitted hint of Indiana Jones in the style of Dan Brown, this latest epic will excite the literary taste buds of the most jaded pallet.
August 11, 2019
Well plotted
I found this a well plotted book - less overt violence than in some others in the series but still detailed and the expected roots in historical reality. Things do not always nice forwards for Kotler in a straightforward way but that is course what drives the story n
I found this a well plotted book - less overt violence than in some others in the series but still detailed and the expected roots in historical reality. Things do not always nice forwards for Kotler in a straightforward way but that is course what drives the story n
January 17, 2020
Another fantastic story!
I am loving this series the more I read! This book was another example of that! Another fantastic story in the Dan Kotler Series! This might be my favourite book so far!
I am loving this series the more I read! This book was another example of that! Another fantastic story in the Dan Kotler Series! This might be my favourite book so far!
March 11, 2020
As per his norm- AWESOME!
Love his books. All of them are a heck of an exciting ride. Love where he takes me, and how it ends. Then it is on to the next one, since there is no putting them down!
Love his books. All of them are a heck of an exciting ride. Love where he takes me, and how it ends. Then it is on to the next one, since there is no putting them down!
July 19, 2020
Different type of Dan Kotler mystery
Even though this book is historical, it is not so much archeological. It is a break from tombs and caves. I thought it showed more depth in Dan Kotler's character. I enjoyed because it was so different from the previous books.
Even though this book is historical, it is not so much archeological. It is a break from tombs and caves. I thought it showed more depth in Dan Kotler's character. I enjoyed because it was so different from the previous books.
August 26, 2020
Dan Kotler and Agent Denzel
Another dilemma to solve, and personal issues addressed. Discovering more about the characters, a well developed plot, another really bad guy, and more history to enjoy. Love these books!
Another dilemma to solve, and personal issues addressed. Discovering more about the characters, a well developed plot, another really bad guy, and more history to enjoy. Love these books!
March 3, 2021
Heading in place
I’m not usually a fan of thrillers. But this series has gripped me totally. I can barely put it down. I’m glad I came in after you’ve wrote more than one of them. That way I can move on to the next one without to much waiting
I’m not usually a fan of thrillers. But this series has gripped me totally. I can barely put it down. I’m glad I came in after you’ve wrote more than one of them. That way I can move on to the next one without to much waiting
February 8, 2019
I'm rereading this book after I finished it overnight. Decided to go back and reread the series from the beginning. Really love this series.
February 13, 2019
Great fun, lots of action, with some good twists, enough historical facts to keep me interested. This was the first book of his that I've read, but certainly not the last!
March 1, 2019
Wow more twists and turns!
Just when you think things will calm down, now Dan is the suspect Villain!!! And is there Love in the air? I can’t wait for more...!!!
Just when you think things will calm down, now Dan is the suspect Villain!!! And is there Love in the air? I can’t wait for more...!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews