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Ben Hope #6
The Lost Relic
A WEB OF DECEIT.
AND BEN HOPE IS CAUGHT UP IN THE MAYHEM…
Whilst visiting a former SAS comrade in Italy, a distracted Ben nearly runs over a young boy – and unwittingly walks into his deadliest mission yet.
Ben’s involvement with the boy’s family runs deeper as he witnesses their brutal murder at a gallery robbery. A seemingly worthless Goya sketch was the principal target in the bloodbath heist. Now it’s up to Ben to find out the truth behind the elusive painting.
Wrongly accused of murder and forced to go on the run, he must get to the heart of the conspiracy while he still has the chance…
AND BEN HOPE IS CAUGHT UP IN THE MAYHEM…
Whilst visiting a former SAS comrade in Italy, a distracted Ben nearly runs over a young boy – and unwittingly walks into his deadliest mission yet.
Ben’s involvement with the boy’s family runs deeper as he witnesses their brutal murder at a gallery robbery. A seemingly worthless Goya sketch was the principal target in the bloodbath heist. Now it’s up to Ben to find out the truth behind the elusive painting.
Wrongly accused of murder and forced to go on the run, he must get to the heart of the conspiracy while he still has the chance…
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2011
226 people are currently reading
1542 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
August 12, 2017
Mariani presents his sixth novel in the Ben Hope series, filling it with action and excitement while also stoking the fires of mystery and intrigue. While his training facility has continued to function effectively, Ben Hope is looking to get out of the business once and for all (have we not heard that before?!). Preferring to hand the reins over to a feasible candidate rather than sell, Hope visits a former military colleague in Italy to propose a business opportunity. Unable to garner the expected excitement, Hope meanders through the Italian countryside and stumbles upon a small art gallery. When a gang of Russian thugs attack, Hope goes into combat mode, helping to keep the casualty count low. Heralded as a hero, Hope tries to dodge the limelight, but remains curious as to why only a single piece of art was sought, surrounded by countless other items whose values are exponentially higher. Meanwhile, as the thieves lick their wounds back in Russia, Hope’s name is bandied about as the one who cost them much and orders to have him killed are sent down the line. Additionally, there seems to her an issue with the stolen artwork, an apparent forgery. It is soon understood that there is a connection with the actual sketch and a priceless item from Imperial Russia, the Dark Medusa. While still adjusting to his hero status, Hope is fingered in the murder of a popular Italian and begins life on the lam. Were that not enough, an organization by the name of SOCA is targeting Hope as well, in hopes of luring the Russians out once and for all. As pandemonium erupts and the Dark Medusa remains hidden, Hope must dodge all those who seek his head while preventing this lost relic from falling into the wrong hands. Set in various locales around the globe, Mariani keeps the thrills coming and thrusts the reader into yet another Ben Hope adventure where nothing can be completely predicted. Series fans and thrill seekers alike will enjoy this piece, which exemplifies Mariani’s writing abilities.
Mariani continues to impress those who have taken the time to follow the Ben Hope series with a number of well-paced novels. The continued evolution of the Hope character, both in his present life and through many pieced of backstory, proves effective in entertaining the reader while allowing the plots to educate on matters of history. Ben Hope remains that man that the reader seems to know well, while always producing new and exciting aspects to add to his already complex nature. In this piece, Hope is not summoned into a dangerous mission by a patron, but seems to stumble upon it, which only goes to support my sentiment that he has some Jack Reacher luck. Both men seem to be full of backstory that is slowly revealed and prove to be a draw to various women who cross their paths as their respective series progress. Mariani extends the story a little by creating a subplot involving Brooke Marcel, the psychologist who sometimes works with Hope in his training courses and holds out a flickering flame for the man, even if he is too dense to pick up on the signals. Marcel’s own personal struggles weave their way into the story and leave me to wonder if there might be more to come with this woman in the next book or two, as she has already remained on the periphery. Looking to the larger story, I have often commented that Mariani uses a ‘hinged narrative’ approach, building two stories in the background and taking the readers on an adventure before a literary right angle turn at some point to focus on a secondary thread. This is readily apparent here and it works out so well. There is talk of the Dark Medusa, but it is buried behind all the Italian manhunt storyline that it takes much of the novel to develop and switch while building significant momentum. The reader will revel in this dual plot development and find much excitement as the chapters build effectively. I know the series has much yet to come, but I have seen so much great writing to date that I can only guess where things will go in the coming novels.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for another wonderfully developed and executed novel in the Ben Hope series. I can see you have a firm grasp on where things are going without tipping your hand as to how we’ll get there.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Mariani continues to impress those who have taken the time to follow the Ben Hope series with a number of well-paced novels. The continued evolution of the Hope character, both in his present life and through many pieced of backstory, proves effective in entertaining the reader while allowing the plots to educate on matters of history. Ben Hope remains that man that the reader seems to know well, while always producing new and exciting aspects to add to his already complex nature. In this piece, Hope is not summoned into a dangerous mission by a patron, but seems to stumble upon it, which only goes to support my sentiment that he has some Jack Reacher luck. Both men seem to be full of backstory that is slowly revealed and prove to be a draw to various women who cross their paths as their respective series progress. Mariani extends the story a little by creating a subplot involving Brooke Marcel, the psychologist who sometimes works with Hope in his training courses and holds out a flickering flame for the man, even if he is too dense to pick up on the signals. Marcel’s own personal struggles weave their way into the story and leave me to wonder if there might be more to come with this woman in the next book or two, as she has already remained on the periphery. Looking to the larger story, I have often commented that Mariani uses a ‘hinged narrative’ approach, building two stories in the background and taking the readers on an adventure before a literary right angle turn at some point to focus on a secondary thread. This is readily apparent here and it works out so well. There is talk of the Dark Medusa, but it is buried behind all the Italian manhunt storyline that it takes much of the novel to develop and switch while building significant momentum. The reader will revel in this dual plot development and find much excitement as the chapters build effectively. I know the series has much yet to come, but I have seen so much great writing to date that I can only guess where things will go in the coming novels.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for another wonderfully developed and executed novel in the Ben Hope series. I can see you have a firm grasp on where things are going without tipping your hand as to how we’ll get there.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
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September 28, 2017
I was nicely into this review when my almost new computer presented me with the dreaded 'blue screen of death' on my monitor and I lost my work. As I was saying ... Having been a bit disappointed with Ben Hope #5 "The Shadow Project", my favourite hero has returned with a vengeance. I enjoyed "The Lost Relic" for it's energy, credibility and readability.
My friend Matt writes: "Looking to the larger story, I have often commented that Mariani uses a ‘hinged narrative’ approach, building two stories in the background and taking the readers on an adventure before a literary right angle turn at some point to focus on a secondary thread." I agree with this comment and the technique is both evident and enjoyable in "The Lost Relic", and other Ben Hope novels. I just wish I was articulate as my friend :)
An odd thing I have noticed while reading the six books to date, and it occurs in #7 which I am reading now, is the propensity for things to fall from/out of Ben Hope's pockets/possession while he is involved in heroic rough and tumbles. He loses guns, ammunition, "ammo clips or mags", and various other bits and pieces, either during battle or he finds out a bit later. It is not a criticism or an important issue for me, merely an observation, but as I read and Ben loses something, my thoughts are "there he goes again'!
I am well into #7 "The Sacred Sword" and wish I didn't keep falling asleep while listening to it. This happens because I listen in bed and naturally I doze a little, but I am loving the novel :)
My friend Matt writes: "Looking to the larger story, I have often commented that Mariani uses a ‘hinged narrative’ approach, building two stories in the background and taking the readers on an adventure before a literary right angle turn at some point to focus on a secondary thread." I agree with this comment and the technique is both evident and enjoyable in "The Lost Relic", and other Ben Hope novels. I just wish I was articulate as my friend :)
An odd thing I have noticed while reading the six books to date, and it occurs in #7 which I am reading now, is the propensity for things to fall from/out of Ben Hope's pockets/possession while he is involved in heroic rough and tumbles. He loses guns, ammunition, "ammo clips or mags", and various other bits and pieces, either during battle or he finds out a bit later. It is not a criticism or an important issue for me, merely an observation, but as I read and Ben loses something, my thoughts are "there he goes again'!
I am well into #7 "The Sacred Sword" and wish I didn't keep falling asleep while listening to it. This happens because I listen in bed and naturally I doze a little, but I am loving the novel :)
January 22, 2021
‘Men like us are bad news for women. We’re lone wolves. We want to love them, but we only hurt them. And so they walk away …’
Ben Hope returns in another 5* action packed and utterly thrilling adventure!
Ben heads to Italy to see an old friend. He wants to hire him to take over at Le Val. Because Ben feels a tad lost.
While in Italy he stumbles upon a private art gallery. Which is under attack from Russian mob.
Ben does what he does best and ends up on the wrong end of Russian gangsters, police and government agencies.
From there he heads down a dark spiral as the most wanted man.
Absolutely fantastic!
'If Spartak Gourko wanted to play with big guns, let him get a dose of this.'
Ben Hope returns in another 5* action packed and utterly thrilling adventure!
Ben heads to Italy to see an old friend. He wants to hire him to take over at Le Val. Because Ben feels a tad lost.
While in Italy he stumbles upon a private art gallery. Which is under attack from Russian mob.
Ben does what he does best and ends up on the wrong end of Russian gangsters, police and government agencies.
From there he heads down a dark spiral as the most wanted man.
Absolutely fantastic!
'If Spartak Gourko wanted to play with big guns, let him get a dose of this.'
April 16, 2017
Another adventure for our hero Ben Hope. This one is filled with thrills, danger, violence and Ben Hope at his stubborn headed doggedness best, refusing to let it go until he gets to the bottom of a series of murders.
I did find it a bit incredulous at times but it's Ben Hope so all is forgiven. As always a great page turner, filled with thrills, danger and excitement and that keeps you guessing until the end.
I did find it a bit incredulous at times but it's Ben Hope so all is forgiven. As always a great page turner, filled with thrills, danger and excitement and that keeps you guessing until the end.
May 9, 2025
Mariani's sixth novel in the Ben Hope series delivers plenty of action, mystery, and intrigue. Hope, looking to leave his training business behind, visits former military colleague Boonzie McCulloch in Italy to propose a new opportunity. During his trip, he stumbles upon an art gallery, but when Russian thugs attack, Hope tries to keep the casualties low, only to become a reluctant hero. His interest is piqued by their theft of a seemingly inconsequential Goya sketch.
Back in Russia, Hope is marked for assassination as tensions rise due to the loss of men while trying to steal the artwork. This stolen Goya sketch is revealed to be a forgery but has links to the priceless "Dark Medusa," a lost Fabergé egg.
Hope’s situation worsens when he's implicated in the murder of an Italian politician, Urbano Tassoni, with links to the theft, and finds himself no longer a hero but on the run. The British organization, SOCA, also targets Hope, sending agent Darcey Kane to find him and ultimately draw out the Russians.
Mariani skillfully blends dual storylines, keeping readers engaged with the unfolding adventure. Hope's character development, alongside subplots like the one involving his partner psychologist Brooke Marcel, adds depth to the narrative. As the story progresses, Mariani continues to impress with well-paced writing, using iconic landmarks in Rome, London, Paris, and Salamanca (Spain) to enhance the narrative. Mariani also includes historical insights, leaving me eager for what's next in the series.
Back in Russia, Hope is marked for assassination as tensions rise due to the loss of men while trying to steal the artwork. This stolen Goya sketch is revealed to be a forgery but has links to the priceless "Dark Medusa," a lost Fabergé egg.
Hope’s situation worsens when he's implicated in the murder of an Italian politician, Urbano Tassoni, with links to the theft, and finds himself no longer a hero but on the run. The British organization, SOCA, also targets Hope, sending agent Darcey Kane to find him and ultimately draw out the Russians.
Mariani skillfully blends dual storylines, keeping readers engaged with the unfolding adventure. Hope's character development, alongside subplots like the one involving his partner psychologist Brooke Marcel, adds depth to the narrative. As the story progresses, Mariani continues to impress with well-paced writing, using iconic landmarks in Rome, London, Paris, and Salamanca (Spain) to enhance the narrative. Mariani also includes historical insights, leaving me eager for what's next in the series.
February 16, 2018
Lleno de adrenalina y acción, Scott Mariani otra vez no decepciona. Lo único que no me gusto fue la subtrama de su vida amorosa, que nunca llega una conclusión, y solo se lle como de relleno, pero aparte de eso el libro es entretenidisimo y lleno de acción.
January 16, 2011
If you are looking for a story that contains, adventure, thrills, conspiracy, terror, drama and a touch of romance, then a new book due to be released shortly called ‘The Lost Relic’, has it all!
‘The Lost Relic’ written by Scott Mariani, is the sixth book in The Sunday Times bestselling series featuring ex-SAS hero and former theology scholar Ben Hope.
Without divulging any spoilers in relation to this particular story, the tale begins when Ben Hope unwittingly walks into a deadly mission while visiting a former SAS comrade in Italy. When becoming involved as a witness to a brutal gallery robbery, where a seemingly worthless sketch was the principal target, little did Ben Hope know that he would become embroiled in a conspiracy that would involve a Russian gang, their Italian partners, the Carabinieri and the British Serious Organised Crime Agency!
This is the first book written by Scott Mariani that I have actually read and the story held my attention right from the beginning to the very end. Once started, this book is difficult to put down!
The historical detail within this story has obviously been very well researched by Scott, and blends in well with his tale as it unfolds. This is a fast paced story with plenty of adventure and twists, and is not for the faint-hearted in places!
This book is an excellent read, and I will not be at all surprised if it fairly quickly reaches the top of the book charts when it is released by its publisher Avon, on 20th January 2011. In my humble opinion, this is a 'must' read book!
‘The Lost Relic’ written by Scott Mariani, is the sixth book in The Sunday Times bestselling series featuring ex-SAS hero and former theology scholar Ben Hope.
Without divulging any spoilers in relation to this particular story, the tale begins when Ben Hope unwittingly walks into a deadly mission while visiting a former SAS comrade in Italy. When becoming involved as a witness to a brutal gallery robbery, where a seemingly worthless sketch was the principal target, little did Ben Hope know that he would become embroiled in a conspiracy that would involve a Russian gang, their Italian partners, the Carabinieri and the British Serious Organised Crime Agency!
This is the first book written by Scott Mariani that I have actually read and the story held my attention right from the beginning to the very end. Once started, this book is difficult to put down!
The historical detail within this story has obviously been very well researched by Scott, and blends in well with his tale as it unfolds. This is a fast paced story with plenty of adventure and twists, and is not for the faint-hearted in places!
This book is an excellent read, and I will not be at all surprised if it fairly quickly reaches the top of the book charts when it is released by its publisher Avon, on 20th January 2011. In my humble opinion, this is a 'must' read book!
November 24, 2012
It does hook you in and it is interesting enough to keep you wanting to read one more chapter, but it is not as good as the best chapters in the Hope series and has suffers from a number of major flaws, in my opinion:
1) differently from the others this is much more of an action story than a thriller. Little and fairly obvious mistery and twists and a lot, to many (!) shoot-outs;
2) full of mistakes, thoroughly unresearched. If you set up a novel in Italy, at least try to get the names of the cities right, if you really cannot avoid basing 99% of the rest on the trite and pathetic stereotypes Brits believe in about it;
3) a terribly unpleasant character in Darcy Kane, unbearably arrogant and cocky, embodying the English superiority complex when approaching other countries... I felt like head butting her many times as she strides around another country magically empowered with command over a police operation;
4) wtf.... I like Brooke
1) differently from the others this is much more of an action story than a thriller. Little and fairly obvious mistery and twists and a lot, to many (!) shoot-outs;
2) full of mistakes, thoroughly unresearched. If you set up a novel in Italy, at least try to get the names of the cities right, if you really cannot avoid basing 99% of the rest on the trite and pathetic stereotypes Brits believe in about it;
3) a terribly unpleasant character in Darcy Kane, unbearably arrogant and cocky, embodying the English superiority complex when approaching other countries... I felt like head butting her many times as she strides around another country magically empowered with command over a police operation;
4) wtf.... I like Brooke
October 5, 2015
Quality read from this reliable author. Quality lead character, and I will be reading more
October 2, 2020
Major Ben Hope is the best action hero in the literary sense at the moment and I don't foresee anyone taking his crown for a long time. Jack Reacher runs a close second and Jason Bourne third. Major Ben Hope is British and ex SAS, that already puts him out in front of the rest and the missions Scott Mariani sends him on are top notch. The title of this book, the lost relic, gives a huge clue to the central theme of this book but it does not become clear until very near the end of the book what the lost relic is or was. This story is set in Europe and all the elements you expect from a book of this genre are included. Major Ben Hope falls foul of a Russian mafia boss, becomes a wanted man and chased by the Italian police and part of the British secret service. He is having trouble with his current girlfriend, and has to work out why a gang of murders would steal just one relatively inexpensive small painting when they could have stolen a whole load of more almost priceless works of art. The action is tense in places and mind numbingly fast in others. This book will have your heart thumping and your pulse accelerating. Although each book in series can be read as a stand alone, there are themes that run through all the books just increasing the readers overall experience.
January 29, 2024
Поредният луд екшън,в който Бен Хоуп е въвлечен случайно.Но нито руската мафия,нито МИ6,нито италианските карабинери и италианските мафиоти имат представа с кой са се захванали. И Хоуп просто им "разказва играта"
April 22, 2020
Матю Райли го не бива сравнение с тоя пич.
March 21, 2022
While visiting a former SAS comrade in Italy, Ben Hope is persuaded to attend a valuable gallery exhibition where a gang of criminals is seeking to steal a worthless Goya sketch. Ben is quickly drawn into a world of treachery and danger where nothing is what it seems. In the midst of secret political forces, Ben finds himself wrongly accused of the murder of an Italian politician and becomes a fugitive. This is an action-packed page turner. It is a very well-written storyline which is very entertaining and fast-paced. It is the 6th book in the series and I look forward to reading the next one. If you like historical thrillers then I am sure you will enjoy this series.
February 23, 2024
A great non-stop read, one of his best adventures - just couldn’t put it down.
September 14, 2015
I can see why this is popular: it's an easy read with twists and turns, but I found myself skipping though the car chases and shoot outs and was left wondering why Ben's girlfriend had featured in the story at all. Having said that it was exciting at times, surprising some of the time, but predictable at other times. It won't get me running to the library for more books by this author, and it's a three star rating from me. Four and half stars on goodreads. I'll have to read the reviews at some time to find what it was that other readers enjoyed about it to rate it so highly.
January 29, 2020
Another rip roaring adventure for Ben Hope
I do so love these novels! You are gently reeled in with the twists and turns, and then wham! You are unable to put the book down! This time Ben, who is most definitely James Bond meet Jason Bourne is in Italy meeting up with an old friend, until he runs into a run boy which sets off a chain of events which involves a robbery at an art exhibition and then going on the run for murder. In the mix of all this you have a Russian mobster out for blood looking for a lost Relic. A most enjoyable read and highly recommended.
I do so love these novels! You are gently reeled in with the twists and turns, and then wham! You are unable to put the book down! This time Ben, who is most definitely James Bond meet Jason Bourne is in Italy meeting up with an old friend, until he runs into a run boy which sets off a chain of events which involves a robbery at an art exhibition and then going on the run for murder. In the mix of all this you have a Russian mobster out for blood looking for a lost Relic. A most enjoyable read and highly recommended.
July 5, 2011
Entertaining but not really any better than previous Ben Hope books. Considering in his last book he finally found his long lost sister I'd have thought this chapter would have picked up on that but not a mention of it. His whole persona was based around his guilt of losing his sister and the rubbish that went with it so some things must have cleared up in his mindset so a little surprising how it was not mentioned at all.
Still a decent read though.
Still a decent read though.
August 10, 2024
Relics, Revelations, and Riveting Action: Ben Hope's Latest Thriller
Scott Mariani's "The Lost Relic" is a pulse-pounding addition to the Ben Hope series, seamlessly blending historical mystery with modern-day adventure. This latest installment reaffirms Mariani's position as a master of the action-thriller genre, delivering a gripping narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The story revolves around a tantalizing historical enigma – a long-lost religious artifact shrouded in centuries of secrecy and myth. Mariani's meticulous research shines through as he weaves a complex tapestry of historical fact and fiction, creating a mystery that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. The author's ability to bring historical periods to life is commendable, transporting readers across time and space with vivid descriptions and well-crafted flashbacks.
At the heart of the novel is Ben Hope, the ex-SAS operative turned troubleshooter, whose complex background and specialized skill set make him a formidable and intriguing protagonist. Mariani continues to develop Hope's character, peeling back layers of his past and psyche, which adds depth to the fast-paced narrative. The supporting cast is generally well-rounded, though some secondary characters could benefit from further development.
The action sequences are where Mariani truly excels. From heart-stopping car chases through narrow European streets to intense hand-to-hand combat scenes, each set piece is choreographed with precision and described in cinematic detail. The author's knowledge of weaponry and tactical maneuvers lends authenticity to these scenes, immersing the reader in the high-stakes world of international espionage and danger.
Mariani's prose is lean and efficient, propelling the story forward at a relentless pace. His writing style perfectly complements the genre, providing just enough description to set the scene without bogging down the narrative with unnecessary details. The plot unfolds through short, punchy chapters that often end on cliffhangers, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
While the novel primarily focuses on action and adventure, Mariani doesn't shy away from exploring deeper themes. Questions of faith, the corrupting influence of power, and the moral ambiguities of modern geopolitics are woven throughout the story, adding intellectual heft to the thrilling ride.
"The Lost Relic" also showcases Mariani's skill in crafting a truly international thriller. The story spans multiple countries, with each location vividly realized. From the winding streets of old European cities to remote mountain monasteries, the settings become characters in their own right, contributing to the overall atmosphere of mystery and danger.
For series newcomers, "The Lost Relic" offers enough background information to jump in without feeling lost, while long-time fans will appreciate the continued evolution of Ben Hope's character and the expanding mythology of his world. However, the richness of the series' continuity may encourage new readers to explore earlier installments.
In conclusion, "The Lost Relic" is a worthy addition to the Ben Hope series, offering a perfect blend of historical intrigue, breakneck action, and thought-provoking themes. While there's room for even deeper character development, Mariani has crafted another page-turner that will satisfy thriller aficionados and history buffs alike. It's a testament to the author's storytelling prowess that, even this far into the series, Ben Hope's adventures remain fresh, exciting, and thoroughly entertaining.
Scott Mariani's "The Lost Relic" is a pulse-pounding addition to the Ben Hope series, seamlessly blending historical mystery with modern-day adventure. This latest installment reaffirms Mariani's position as a master of the action-thriller genre, delivering a gripping narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The story revolves around a tantalizing historical enigma – a long-lost religious artifact shrouded in centuries of secrecy and myth. Mariani's meticulous research shines through as he weaves a complex tapestry of historical fact and fiction, creating a mystery that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. The author's ability to bring historical periods to life is commendable, transporting readers across time and space with vivid descriptions and well-crafted flashbacks.
At the heart of the novel is Ben Hope, the ex-SAS operative turned troubleshooter, whose complex background and specialized skill set make him a formidable and intriguing protagonist. Mariani continues to develop Hope's character, peeling back layers of his past and psyche, which adds depth to the fast-paced narrative. The supporting cast is generally well-rounded, though some secondary characters could benefit from further development.
The action sequences are where Mariani truly excels. From heart-stopping car chases through narrow European streets to intense hand-to-hand combat scenes, each set piece is choreographed with precision and described in cinematic detail. The author's knowledge of weaponry and tactical maneuvers lends authenticity to these scenes, immersing the reader in the high-stakes world of international espionage and danger.
Mariani's prose is lean and efficient, propelling the story forward at a relentless pace. His writing style perfectly complements the genre, providing just enough description to set the scene without bogging down the narrative with unnecessary details. The plot unfolds through short, punchy chapters that often end on cliffhangers, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
While the novel primarily focuses on action and adventure, Mariani doesn't shy away from exploring deeper themes. Questions of faith, the corrupting influence of power, and the moral ambiguities of modern geopolitics are woven throughout the story, adding intellectual heft to the thrilling ride.
"The Lost Relic" also showcases Mariani's skill in crafting a truly international thriller. The story spans multiple countries, with each location vividly realized. From the winding streets of old European cities to remote mountain monasteries, the settings become characters in their own right, contributing to the overall atmosphere of mystery and danger.
For series newcomers, "The Lost Relic" offers enough background information to jump in without feeling lost, while long-time fans will appreciate the continued evolution of Ben Hope's character and the expanding mythology of his world. However, the richness of the series' continuity may encourage new readers to explore earlier installments.
In conclusion, "The Lost Relic" is a worthy addition to the Ben Hope series, offering a perfect blend of historical intrigue, breakneck action, and thought-provoking themes. While there's room for even deeper character development, Mariani has crafted another page-turner that will satisfy thriller aficionados and history buffs alike. It's a testament to the author's storytelling prowess that, even this far into the series, Ben Hope's adventures remain fresh, exciting, and thoroughly entertaining.
December 4, 2017
There's hardly anything in a book I love more than a cool badass character who kicks a**es and is really good at his job. I've read something about this series which gave me an idea to describe the series on my own. Need a hero? Then Ben Hope is your man. That assumes it pretty good. Well, it goes with some additions such as danger, action, a pinch of violence(well, a lot of pinches), mystery and a lot more. After all, there's always the element of surprise, right? With Ben Hope, it's all the time.
Ben's handsome, that's bloody true. In addition to many other qualities, he's a bit crazy, of course. Which made him the perfect character. Why such men only exist in books? *sighs*
I've read a review of The Lost Relic saying that Ben's relationship with Brooke is left "hanging in the air". Well, this is a thriller novel, not contemporary romance. The love story is a somewhat a bonus, but not the main plot. If you want to read about someone's relationship in details, then read a contemporary romance, there's plenty of it. Don't blame the author for leaving their status. Is that what you're more interested in? And not the mystery going on and the pretty good chase Ben is in? That's a shame to the book and the series.
I really liked this book though. Maybe it's like a great action movie written in a book so I can do the filming in my head which is several times better. To sum up, give Ben a chance please, he won't disappoint you, I promise. ;)
Ben's handsome, that's bloody true. In addition to many other qualities, he's a bit crazy, of course. Which made him the perfect character. Why such men only exist in books? *sighs*
I've read a review of The Lost Relic saying that Ben's relationship with Brooke is left "hanging in the air". Well, this is a thriller novel, not contemporary romance. The love story is a somewhat a bonus, but not the main plot. If you want to read about someone's relationship in details, then read a contemporary romance, there's plenty of it. Don't blame the author for leaving their status. Is that what you're more interested in? And not the mystery going on and the pretty good chase Ben is in? That's a shame to the book and the series.
I really liked this book though. Maybe it's like a great action movie written in a book so I can do the filming in my head which is several times better. To sum up, give Ben a chance please, he won't disappoint you, I promise. ;)
November 29, 2023
Ben Hope is contemplating his future and travel to Italy to contact an old friend to discuss his situation. While there he avoids an accident which ultimately turns events around, putting him on the run from the police and agents from Britain.
There is lots of action in this book and Ben's good intentions only get him into trouble as he tries to avoid it. It's a fast pace book with fast pace action all leading to face down with the ultimate enemy. I enjoyed this for most of the book, but towards the end it felt as if it was drifting a bit from the original path. The ending was a bit anti climatic with a cliche "return from the dead event", which should not have happened. Overall it was enjoyable, if you don't mind death and destruction.
There is lots of action in this book and Ben's good intentions only get him into trouble as he tries to avoid it. It's a fast pace book with fast pace action all leading to face down with the ultimate enemy. I enjoyed this for most of the book, but towards the end it felt as if it was drifting a bit from the original path. The ending was a bit anti climatic with a cliche "return from the dead event", which should not have happened. Overall it was enjoyable, if you don't mind death and destruction.
March 17, 2018
I’ve been enjoying the Ben Hope series immensely so far, and book number 6 is probably the best one so far, which is surprising as almost the entire book is one big chase across Europe. I often get annoyed at books that include so much action because they feel like the author was just trying to write a movie script in book form. In this book, it works.
The reason I keep giving these books 4 instead of 5 stars has to do with frustrating setup. Several times in each book, it’s not clear which character is speaking, purely due to how the editor sets up the paragraphs. Just starting each character’s dialogue with a new line would completely fix the problem.
The reason I keep giving these books 4 instead of 5 stars has to do with frustrating setup. Several times in each book, it’s not clear which character is speaking, purely due to how the editor sets up the paragraphs. Just starting each character’s dialogue with a new line would completely fix the problem.
September 2, 2024
Another Ben Hope book where the guy can’t catch a bloody break!!!! Let this man rest!!!
Though, in another sense, this was totally different to the other Ben Hope books because the majority of the novel was spent with Ben on the run from the government/police rather than the dodgy criminals he’s usually getting attacked by. Half the time I had no clue how he was going to get out of this book alive, or at least without ending up in jail. Mariani switched things up a bit in this one, and it paid off! Only in the last few chapters did the historical element start to come together, as opposed to the entire story revolving around it. Very well done!
Though, in another sense, this was totally different to the other Ben Hope books because the majority of the novel was spent with Ben on the run from the government/police rather than the dodgy criminals he’s usually getting attacked by. Half the time I had no clue how he was going to get out of this book alive, or at least without ending up in jail. Mariani switched things up a bit in this one, and it paid off! Only in the last few chapters did the historical element start to come together, as opposed to the entire story revolving around it. Very well done!
January 31, 2020
It was strange because I would not consider what was missing a relic. A nice object, very expensive but maybe to the one person looking for it, it dealt with their culture and that is why he wanted it. A very fast paced book with lots of action. One thing I wish the author would rectify is what is going on between Ben and Brooke. This has been dragging around for the past few books, I wish they would decide on their relationship and be done with it.
April 2, 2024
Very misleading to suggest this was in any way equivalent to the da Vinci code. Sure it had a few paragraphs about art thrown in, but this was a one dimensional book with a thin plot line which was still spelt out, a ridiculous number of escapes from impossible situations and lots and lots of guns.
It kept its pace up and was action packed and passed the time while stuck on a plans and train but not what I hoped it would be.
It kept its pace up and was action packed and passed the time while stuck on a plans and train but not what I hoped it would be.
August 16, 2017
The fact that one of the only two sentences that were supposed to be written in Portuguese was utter rubbish deeply disappointed me. It shows sloppy work, the author just did not put in any effort.
Lack of continuity from the previous book also left me wondering whether Ben Hope really cared about his sister. And vice versa.
Lack of continuity from the previous book also left me wondering whether Ben Hope really cared about his sister. And vice versa.
January 2, 2019
An usual spine chilling action filled Ben Hope story from Mariani. Our hero gets himself dragged into a so called art robbery. After being praised as hero for saving people lives from ruthless killers suddenly he becomes the fugitive of the government for killing a politician which he didn't. HOPE has no choice other than to escape himself from the police and has to find out the truth.
June 4, 2020
This is more of a Mission Impossible with one man constantly running away from bad guys which in a way is fun but what really turned me off this book was how Scott worked in the Brook saga. How obvious and so much angst it reminded me of my teenage reading with all the pained looks and thoughts and how they cannot talk to each other etc. Nah. Cold have been better
January 16, 2024
Ben Hope is in my imagination a blond Jason Statham who if anything is more good looking and lethal. This story has him being chased round Europe by the Russian baddies and our own guys too for good measure. Great action and romps along so quickly you almost miss the twists and turns and luckily any grip on reality. A great escape read for a cold January.
June 10, 2017
Mucha acción
Este libro es como una película de acción. Desde el principio te atrapa y no te suelta. La intensidad de los acontecimientos es tal que no puedes dejar de leer. Adictivo hasta el final.
Este libro es como una película de acción. Desde el principio te atrapa y no te suelta. La intensidad de los acontecimientos es tal que no puedes dejar de leer. Adictivo hasta el final.
July 14, 2017
This was a good one. The conspiracy/investigation didn't really take central stage as it had done in previous books, instead it was more about Ben and his survival. It was a lot more action based than some other books and that was really great.
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