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Cotton Malone #17
The Last Kingdom
King Ludwig II of Bavaria was an enigmatic figure who was deposed in 1886, mysteriously drowning three days later. Eccentric to the point of madness, history tells us that in the years before he died Ludwig engaged in a worldwide search for a new kingdom, one separate, apart, and in lieu of Bavaria. A place he could retreat into and rule as he wished. But a question remains: did he succeed?
Enter Cotton Malone. After many months, Malone’s protégé, Luke Daniels, has managed to infiltrate a renegade group intent on winning Bavarian independence from Germany. Daniels has also managed to gain the trust of the prince of Bavaria, a frustrated second son intent on eliminating his brother, the duke, and restoring the Wittelsbach monarchy, only now with him as king. Everything hinges on a 19th century deed which proves that Ludwig’s long-rumored search bore fruit--legal title to lands that Germany, China, and the United States all now want, only for vastly different reasons.
In a race across Bavaria for clues hidden in Ludwig’s three fairytale castles--Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Herrenchiemsee--Malone and Daniels battle an ever-growing list of deadly adversaries, all intent on finding the last kingdom.
Enter Cotton Malone. After many months, Malone’s protégé, Luke Daniels, has managed to infiltrate a renegade group intent on winning Bavarian independence from Germany. Daniels has also managed to gain the trust of the prince of Bavaria, a frustrated second son intent on eliminating his brother, the duke, and restoring the Wittelsbach monarchy, only now with him as king. Everything hinges on a 19th century deed which proves that Ludwig’s long-rumored search bore fruit--legal title to lands that Germany, China, and the United States all now want, only for vastly different reasons.
In a race across Bavaria for clues hidden in Ludwig’s three fairytale castles--Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Herrenchiemsee--Malone and Daniels battle an ever-growing list of deadly adversaries, all intent on finding the last kingdom.
465 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2023
1907 people are currently reading
9549 people want to read
About the author
Steve Berry
108 books7,425 followersSteve Berry is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of twenty-two novels, which include: The Last Kingdom , The Omega Factor , The Kaiser's Web, The Warsaw Protocol, The Malta Exchange, The Bishop’s Pawn, The Lost Order, The 14th Colony, The Patriot Threat, The Lincoln Myth, The King's Deception, The Columbus Affair, The Jefferson Key, The Emperor's Tomb, The Paris Vendetta, The Charlemagne Pursuit, The Venetian Betrayal, The Alexandria Link, The Templar Legacy, The Third Secret, The Romanov Prophecy, and The Amber Room. Steve has also co-written a novel with Grant Blackwood, The 9th Man (a Luke Daniels Adventure), and four novellas with M. J. Rose: The End of Forever, The House of Long Ago, The Lake of Learning, and The Museum of Mysteries, all Cassiopeia Vitt tales. His books have been translated into 41 languages with over 25,000,000 copies in 52 countries. They consistently appear in the top echelon of The New York Times, USA Today, and Indie bestseller lists. Somewhere in the world, every thirty seconds, one of his novels is sold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 562 reviews
March 17, 2023
I would consider Steve Berry to be one the great authors who can mix history with current events to create masterful stories that entertain the reader. While working through a series, Berry is able to cobble together a vast amount of not-too-well known historical fact and develop a full novel on those grounds. His writing is top-notch and his ideas take the reader on an adventure like no other. This piece is no exception, tackling the small kingdom of Bavaria and how it was subsumed into the larger united Germany. There are some interesting ‘American’ ties, something the reader will likely want to know more about when the dive into this piece. Crisp storytelling, wonderful characters, and a little wit to keep the reader on their toes. Berry at his best!
In the latter stages of the 19th century, King Ludwig II of Bavaria could tell that his time in power was waning. Before he was deposed and died a few days later, Ludwig II is said to have been on a mission to find a new kingdom, one where he could reign without the worry of German unification, which was afoot. He sought his own place of solitude, where he would not be faced with enemies and the push to have him follow rules he could not accept. Bavaria was slipping away, but he had high hopes. History does not tell us whether Ludwig II succeeded, but there are crumbs!
Flash forward to the present, where Cotton Malone has been called back into service, albeit without the approval of the new US president. Malone’s protégé, Luke Daniels, has intel on a new group trying to win Bavarian independence from Germany, which is sure to topple the country’s stability. Bavaria, the largest German state, is also one that is rumoured not to have been keen on unification and its people are still resentful to this day. Daniels has also been able to work with the current Bavarian prince, a title in name only, who is seeking some form of impactful monarchy and ensuring the Wittelsbach name returns to power. There stands before him a few obstacles, a duke, the elder brother of the prince, the German republic, and worldwide sentiment.
As Malone and Daniels explore the situation, they come upon a highly secretive and powerful deed that proves Ludwig II may have found his new Bavaria, far from the European continent. However, this document, should it be true, could cause major issues, as many powerful countries would love to lay claim to it themselves, utilising its geographic location, strategic placement, and access to various parts of the world. It is up the Malone, with Daniels’ help, to keep things calm and peel back the rumours in order to find the kernel of truth.
As the race to find the last Bavarian kingdom heightens, both Malone and Daniels realise that they have taken on quite the task with this mission. Many would have them fail, only to take over control of the kingdom for themselves. It is up to them to act swiftly and succinctly, or have everything demolished and Bavaria returned to German control. A historically intense and baffling piece, which shows just how intense a Steve Berry thriller can be. Series fans will surely love it and be surprised by some of the content.
I never finish a Steve Berry book without shaking my head and picking my jaw up from off the floor! There is so much going on and Berry offers up dazzling history woven into his narratives, providing depth not found in many of the books I have read. There is a great flow to there story, both in modern and historical contexts, all of which is essential for the reader to remain captivated by what is going on. The characters, both modern and historical, are intriguing and I am curious to discover more about when when I have additional time. With an upcoming Luke Daniels-centred novel, I should be able to learn a little more about this operative, though I feel this may also be a new avenue Berry is entertaining, having Daniels play a more prominent role. The plot twists throughout kept me guessing, as did some of the historical pieces. Berry is known for his melding of fact and fiction, so I was curious to sit through his end piece, in which all is revealed for the patient reader. This is a powerful series and usually offers up something about which I had no previous knowledge. I cannot wait to see what is to come, as Steve Berry never disappoints.
Kudos, Mr. Berry, for another great novel. I am itching to see what’s next.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
In the latter stages of the 19th century, King Ludwig II of Bavaria could tell that his time in power was waning. Before he was deposed and died a few days later, Ludwig II is said to have been on a mission to find a new kingdom, one where he could reign without the worry of German unification, which was afoot. He sought his own place of solitude, where he would not be faced with enemies and the push to have him follow rules he could not accept. Bavaria was slipping away, but he had high hopes. History does not tell us whether Ludwig II succeeded, but there are crumbs!
Flash forward to the present, where Cotton Malone has been called back into service, albeit without the approval of the new US president. Malone’s protégé, Luke Daniels, has intel on a new group trying to win Bavarian independence from Germany, which is sure to topple the country’s stability. Bavaria, the largest German state, is also one that is rumoured not to have been keen on unification and its people are still resentful to this day. Daniels has also been able to work with the current Bavarian prince, a title in name only, who is seeking some form of impactful monarchy and ensuring the Wittelsbach name returns to power. There stands before him a few obstacles, a duke, the elder brother of the prince, the German republic, and worldwide sentiment.
As Malone and Daniels explore the situation, they come upon a highly secretive and powerful deed that proves Ludwig II may have found his new Bavaria, far from the European continent. However, this document, should it be true, could cause major issues, as many powerful countries would love to lay claim to it themselves, utilising its geographic location, strategic placement, and access to various parts of the world. It is up the Malone, with Daniels’ help, to keep things calm and peel back the rumours in order to find the kernel of truth.
As the race to find the last Bavarian kingdom heightens, both Malone and Daniels realise that they have taken on quite the task with this mission. Many would have them fail, only to take over control of the kingdom for themselves. It is up to them to act swiftly and succinctly, or have everything demolished and Bavaria returned to German control. A historically intense and baffling piece, which shows just how intense a Steve Berry thriller can be. Series fans will surely love it and be surprised by some of the content.
I never finish a Steve Berry book without shaking my head and picking my jaw up from off the floor! There is so much going on and Berry offers up dazzling history woven into his narratives, providing depth not found in many of the books I have read. There is a great flow to there story, both in modern and historical contexts, all of which is essential for the reader to remain captivated by what is going on. The characters, both modern and historical, are intriguing and I am curious to discover more about when when I have additional time. With an upcoming Luke Daniels-centred novel, I should be able to learn a little more about this operative, though I feel this may also be a new avenue Berry is entertaining, having Daniels play a more prominent role. The plot twists throughout kept me guessing, as did some of the historical pieces. Berry is known for his melding of fact and fiction, so I was curious to sit through his end piece, in which all is revealed for the patient reader. This is a powerful series and usually offers up something about which I had no previous knowledge. I cannot wait to see what is to come, as Steve Berry never disappoints.
Kudos, Mr. Berry, for another great novel. I am itching to see what’s next.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 29, 2022
This is a book that author Steve Berry has been waiting to write for decades, and while I can understand his passion, for me this was not one of my favorites. Here Cotton Malone is back in action to assist the Magellan Billet as there are some strange things going on in Bavaria that involve the rumor of a deed in which the Kingdom of Hawaii was actually transferred to King Ludwig II of Bavaria prior to his death and the US annexation of Hawaii,
There are way too many characters to follow here, and Malone is not involved in much of the action. Of course when the players are Bavaria, Germany, battling descendants, the CIA, secret organizations, ex-CIA employees and vast rare earth mineral right there is certainly a lot going on and you understand the need for all the extra characters. Berry does a great job with all the Bavarian background and explaining Mad King Ludwig and the book never lags in action or interest. To me this is a step down from his last book featuring Malone, The Omega Factor. When even Berry starts having his characters refer to Cotton Malone as "Pappy" it may show that Cotton's time with Magellan is coming to an end, but he still has a world of intrigue he can be involved with on his own and with his girlfriend Cassiopia. For me a 3.5* book.
There are way too many characters to follow here, and Malone is not involved in much of the action. Of course when the players are Bavaria, Germany, battling descendants, the CIA, secret organizations, ex-CIA employees and vast rare earth mineral right there is certainly a lot going on and you understand the need for all the extra characters. Berry does a great job with all the Bavarian background and explaining Mad King Ludwig and the book never lags in action or interest. To me this is a step down from his last book featuring Malone, The Omega Factor. When even Berry starts having his characters refer to Cotton Malone as "Pappy" it may show that Cotton's time with Magellan is coming to an end, but he still has a world of intrigue he can be involved with on his own and with his girlfriend Cassiopia. For me a 3.5* book.
March 6, 2023
What a fun book to read. Had a hard time putting it down. You really need to read the first one to get a feeling and background to what is going on. Those people who like field operatives and men who can do crazy things…this book is for you.
May 17, 2023
Latest in the cotton malone series based around a document granting the rulers of Bavaria ( now part of Germany) the deeds of Hawaii. a page turner as events play out and berry doesn't disappoint.
January 9, 2023
This book, the author says, fulfills a dream; but while the plot is certainly intriguing (and timely), it was so complicated and filled with so many characters that I found myself snoring here and there. That said, though, it was engrossing enough that for the most part I didn't want to put it down (I even took it to bed to finish, which normally is a no-no for me).
The setting is Bavaria, many years after King Ludwig II reportedly drowned in 1886, three days after being deposed. But legend has it he took a few secrets with him, including the results of his search for a new "kingdom" (hence the title of the book). Another legend involves the possible existence of a 19th century deed to property that's now extremely valuable; the true owner stands to reap considerable financial benefits if that deed is found.
But therein lies the problem; no one seems to know where it might be. Luke Daniels, who was mentored by former Magellan Billet operative Cotton Malone, is in the German state, managing to infiltrate a somewhat secret group of people who are desperate to gain independence from Germany. Meanwhile, Malone - who retired a dozen years ago as a U.S. Justice Department intelligence officer - now lives in Denmark and operates a store that specializes in rare books. Occasionally, he reverts to his former profession, as he does here when he spots Luke in the middle of a tough situation. Then he meets up with old acquaintance Derrick Kogen, who asks for help on behalf of another former colleague in dealing with Bavarian Prince Stefan von Bayern, who supposedly is intent on bringing down the United States. It is then that Cotton learns about former King Ludwig's new kingdom and all the ramifications thereof.
If all that sounds a bit confusing, it is; scenes shift from one group of characters to another, and while readers can be pretty sure which side Cotton is on, shoring up the others isn't always so clear. There are chases, near misses and hits as various characters, including Cotton and Luke, chase down the truth about the new kingdom and the deed. It all leads up to an action-packed ending with a couple of twists I didn't see coming. The chases and battles are exciting, and overall it's a rousing adventure. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
The setting is Bavaria, many years after King Ludwig II reportedly drowned in 1886, three days after being deposed. But legend has it he took a few secrets with him, including the results of his search for a new "kingdom" (hence the title of the book). Another legend involves the possible existence of a 19th century deed to property that's now extremely valuable; the true owner stands to reap considerable financial benefits if that deed is found.
But therein lies the problem; no one seems to know where it might be. Luke Daniels, who was mentored by former Magellan Billet operative Cotton Malone, is in the German state, managing to infiltrate a somewhat secret group of people who are desperate to gain independence from Germany. Meanwhile, Malone - who retired a dozen years ago as a U.S. Justice Department intelligence officer - now lives in Denmark and operates a store that specializes in rare books. Occasionally, he reverts to his former profession, as he does here when he spots Luke in the middle of a tough situation. Then he meets up with old acquaintance Derrick Kogen, who asks for help on behalf of another former colleague in dealing with Bavarian Prince Stefan von Bayern, who supposedly is intent on bringing down the United States. It is then that Cotton learns about former King Ludwig's new kingdom and all the ramifications thereof.
If all that sounds a bit confusing, it is; scenes shift from one group of characters to another, and while readers can be pretty sure which side Cotton is on, shoring up the others isn't always so clear. There are chases, near misses and hits as various characters, including Cotton and Luke, chase down the truth about the new kingdom and the deed. It all leads up to an action-packed ending with a couple of twists I didn't see coming. The chases and battles are exciting, and overall it's a rousing adventure. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
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June 22, 2025why the hell is this one guy giving it one star bro chill💀💀💀
February 21, 2023
Cotton Malone is back in Steve Berry’s The Last Kingdom. The retired agent is called back into action as backup for Luke Daniels, who has infiltrated a group seeking to restore the kingdom of Bavaria. In the 1880s, King Ludwig II supposedly received a deed to the Hawaiian Islands. Through the years, the deed had been the subject of unsuccessful searches. Now, however, new clues have been revealed that could lead to the document’s discovery. Prince Stefan, a descendant of Ludwig II believes that possession of the deed could allow him to negotiate Bavaria’s secession from Germany. Deposits of rare earth have been detected in Hawaiian waters, leading the Chinese to become involved in the search. A renegade group of former CIA agents are also in the race, prepared to kill anyone in their way.
The current Duke of Bavaria is dying. As his heir, Stefan would be the rightful king if he succeeds. As the trail leads to Ludwig’s empty tomb, Linderhof and Neuschwanstein Castle, Cotton must decipher a series of clues left behind by Ludwig’s advisor to avert the political fallout that the deed could cause in the present. Mixing history and political intrigue, Steve Berry will keep you on the edge of your seat as the various factions converge on the location revealed by the final clue. Along the way alliances are broken and not everyone is who they seem. From his opening scenes to the last pages, Berry makes this a difficult book to put down. I would like to thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing this book for my review.
The current Duke of Bavaria is dying. As his heir, Stefan would be the rightful king if he succeeds. As the trail leads to Ludwig’s empty tomb, Linderhof and Neuschwanstein Castle, Cotton must decipher a series of clues left behind by Ludwig’s advisor to avert the political fallout that the deed could cause in the present. Mixing history and political intrigue, Steve Berry will keep you on the edge of your seat as the various factions converge on the location revealed by the final clue. Along the way alliances are broken and not everyone is who they seem. From his opening scenes to the last pages, Berry makes this a difficult book to put down. I would like to thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing this book for my review.
February 24, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for the gift of an advanced copy. You'll find my honest review below.
If you've followed me for a while, you know that the Cotton Malone series is one of my long time favorites. You'll also know that installment #16, The Kaiser's Web, earned a mediocre rating from me - mostly because at the end, Cotton Malone did something completely out of character in my opinion.
Last year, we received a Steve Berry novel that wasn't in the Cotton Malone series and it was fantastic.
This year, we get installment #17, The Last Kingdom. Cotton's story takes him to Germany again, like in book 16, but this one was back to form.
The Last Kingdom had twists, turns, betrayals, revelations, and the introduction of a character that I think will end up being the in the upcoming Luke Daniels spinoff with our favorite Frat Boy.
All in all, a fun romp through Bavaria. Can't wait for more Cotton (and honestly anything else from Steve Berry as well).
Four stars, definitely recommended (but read the rest of the series first!).
If you've followed me for a while, you know that the Cotton Malone series is one of my long time favorites. You'll also know that installment #16, The Kaiser's Web, earned a mediocre rating from me - mostly because at the end, Cotton Malone did something completely out of character in my opinion.
Last year, we received a Steve Berry novel that wasn't in the Cotton Malone series and it was fantastic.
This year, we get installment #17, The Last Kingdom. Cotton's story takes him to Germany again, like in book 16, but this one was back to form.
The Last Kingdom had twists, turns, betrayals, revelations, and the introduction of a character that I think will end up being the in the upcoming Luke Daniels spinoff with our favorite Frat Boy.
All in all, a fun romp through Bavaria. Can't wait for more Cotton (and honestly anything else from Steve Berry as well).
Four stars, definitely recommended (but read the rest of the series first!).
April 29, 2023
Steve Berry never disappoints. Kingdom zooms around Europe weaving the Chinese, Germans, the President, CIA, and disgruntled Ex-CIA operatives into a plot that is a hoot. At the core of the plot is plenty of history and another Cipher just to aid the already fast-paced narrative. Berry's hero, Cotton Malone, and a crew of helpers put an end to a Chinese plan to corner rare earth elements and leaves us with another fun fact (there are lots) that made me grin. One of the castles in the intrigue was indeed a model for Walt Disney.
Must read. Fun Read....and best of all, the good guys win. - Tom L.
Must read. Fun Read....and best of all, the good guys win. - Tom L.
March 7, 2023
Berry is the king of historical fiction!! I’ve read every one of his books and each is better than the last. It’s truly amazing how he kept me excited about King Lidwig II from Bavaria for 450 pages but this one was exciting from the rip. Always can’t wait for his next installment!
March 16, 2023
Great plot and historical references as always, but this wasn’t one of my favorites. We barely get to see Cotton in action and there were way too many characters involved. It sort of made things convoluted.
March 26, 2023
I keep waiting for Berry to write books like the ones I first loved. That does not seem to be happening. This is about the fifth book in a row that I have found disappointing. I have read every book that this author has written, and for the past several years I have been disappointed. You would think I would learn. My complaints this time are many. Too many characters brought in too fast and never fully fleshed out. An ending that crashes in and as usual involves too much detail. I really want to read more books like the old days such as "The Amber Room". Unless you are a devoted Berry reader, skip this one.
May 28, 2023
Oh poo. I was disappointed in this book. The new people didn't do anything for me and the others needed help from Nells and Witt.
June 30, 2025
Een ex-CIA agent die toch weer aan de slag moet. Hij raakt verstrikt in een complot met Duitsland, de VS, China, verschillende veiligheidorganisaties, royalty, een seperatisten-groep, losgeslagen oud-agenten, en ga zo maar door. Zo voelde het soms onnodig complex, maar het verhaal was wel spannend, en het las goed door. Daarnaast werden geschiedenis en fictie mooi met elkaar verweven, en was het boek geen moment saai.
(blijkbaar ben ik bij het laatste boek van een (tot nu toe) 17-delige reeks van dezelfde agent begonnen, misschien dat ik ook maar eens eerdere delen ga lezen)
(blijkbaar ben ik bij het laatste boek van een (tot nu toe) 17-delige reeks van dezelfde agent begonnen, misschien dat ik ook maar eens eerdere delen ga lezen)
July 21, 2023
Berry's Cotton Malone series is one I follow and collect. It is a series I enjoy as entertainment and since his plots are history based the reader also can manage to learn a few things along the way. Since Malone's character is a retired intelligence agent for a Dept. of Justice agency and is now a book shop owner in Copenhagen his adventures usually traverse numerous European locales and this one is no exception. I also imagine Mr. Berry gets to travel to these wonderful locations and then gets to write it off his income taxes as research. For this particular book Berry was tasked with protracted stays in Bavaria visiting the castles around Munich like Neuschwanstein, Herrenchiemsee, and Linderhof as well as other sites of importance. I guess somebody had to do it and it appears that Mr. Berry managed to survive the ordeal (LOL). Well I am happy that he did because this is one of his better adventures and a real page turner which is the goal of every thriller writer. So what's it about?
I would like to tell what the story involves but I am afraid of spoiling the book for you so I need to be careful. Since all of the Berry's books are based on some historical fact, legend, myth, or mystery that holds true for this book. The historical hook in this book, however, is really what the late film critic Roger Ebert called the McGuffin. An example of a McGuffin would be the falcon statue in "The Maltese Falcon". It is a prop upon which to base a story and in the case of this book that prop is a deed the possession of which would give the possessor ownership of a significant portion of the United States. It is believed that the deed in question was transferred to Mad Duke Ludwig II of Bavaria shortly before his untimely death in 1881. Ludwig is the "Mad" Duke that built the three castles mentioned above and was deposed the day before his body was found floating in a local lake. That is the foundation of the story but there is so much more.
The search for this deed involves Malone, Malone's former agency, an Australian intelligence agent, the CIA, former CIA rogue agents, the heirs to the throne of Bavaria, a cult like brotherhood of Bavarian men, the German government, the Chinese government and then the president of the United States gets involved. With so many players involved it was hard for the reader to identify who the good guys were and who were the villains. Berry did a masterful job of keeping the reader guessing as to who was working for who and who was playing who and for what reason. This story is a great juggling act that prevented me from anticipating the ending. It was a great read so enjoy.
I would like to tell what the story involves but I am afraid of spoiling the book for you so I need to be careful. Since all of the Berry's books are based on some historical fact, legend, myth, or mystery that holds true for this book. The historical hook in this book, however, is really what the late film critic Roger Ebert called the McGuffin. An example of a McGuffin would be the falcon statue in "The Maltese Falcon". It is a prop upon which to base a story and in the case of this book that prop is a deed the possession of which would give the possessor ownership of a significant portion of the United States. It is believed that the deed in question was transferred to Mad Duke Ludwig II of Bavaria shortly before his untimely death in 1881. Ludwig is the "Mad" Duke that built the three castles mentioned above and was deposed the day before his body was found floating in a local lake. That is the foundation of the story but there is so much more.
The search for this deed involves Malone, Malone's former agency, an Australian intelligence agent, the CIA, former CIA rogue agents, the heirs to the throne of Bavaria, a cult like brotherhood of Bavarian men, the German government, the Chinese government and then the president of the United States gets involved. With so many players involved it was hard for the reader to identify who the good guys were and who were the villains. Berry did a masterful job of keeping the reader guessing as to who was working for who and who was playing who and for what reason. This story is a great juggling act that prevented me from anticipating the ending. It was a great read so enjoy.
April 20, 2023
Another good Cotton Malone story, this time steeped in German history.
March 5, 2023
I enjoyed this latest installment in the adventures of Cotton Malone.
While I do have a bound copy, I chose to add to the enjoyment by
listening to Scott Brick tackle the various languages Steve Berry
always includes.
Of course it would be incorrect to say that all of these books are the
same, however, when are we not looking for either a lost or stolen
document or artifact, and Cotton will come in and save the day?
Now Cotton has a protege, Luke Daniels, who has managed to embed
himself with the renegades who plan to win their Bavarian independence
from Germany (love listening to Scott Brick here with the accented speech)
but first there is a hunt for the title to the land that everyone wants. And
with brother against brother racing for clues and desperate to
find the last kingdom, things are going to become a fight to the end.
I recommend this book to Cotton fans, and readers who enjoy
Steve Berry, Brad Taylor, Brett Battles, etc.
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing & Goodreads for a giveaways
winner copy of this book.
While not required, I chose to review this book because I enjoyed it
and hope others will as well. I enjoyed this book by listening to the
Audio presentation on Libro.fm performed by Scott Brick Presents.
While I do have a bound copy, I chose to add to the enjoyment by
listening to Scott Brick tackle the various languages Steve Berry
always includes.
Of course it would be incorrect to say that all of these books are the
same, however, when are we not looking for either a lost or stolen
document or artifact, and Cotton will come in and save the day?
Now Cotton has a protege, Luke Daniels, who has managed to embed
himself with the renegades who plan to win their Bavarian independence
from Germany (love listening to Scott Brick here with the accented speech)
but first there is a hunt for the title to the land that everyone wants. And
with brother against brother racing for clues and desperate to
find the last kingdom, things are going to become a fight to the end.
I recommend this book to Cotton fans, and readers who enjoy
Steve Berry, Brad Taylor, Brett Battles, etc.
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing & Goodreads for a giveaways
winner copy of this book.
While not required, I chose to review this book because I enjoyed it
and hope others will as well. I enjoyed this book by listening to the
Audio presentation on Libro.fm performed by Scott Brick Presents.
December 4, 2022
As a long time fan of Steve Berry's work, I was delighted when Grand Central Publishing provided me with an ARC of Berry's most recent offering in his Cotton Malone series entitled "The Last Kingdom." For those of you unfamiliar with Berry's canon, it is very similar to the late Clive Cussler's historical adventures. The difference is that while Cussler's work is largely action driven, Berry's action seems more mature and measured. In other words, the tone of Berry's book is notably more serious than Cussler's. The single greatest commonality between these authors is their focus on real historical issues that serve as a springboard for the action that drives their respective narratives. Because of the heavy historical grounding that provides the backdrop to Berry"s narrative, one cannot help but absorb a great deal of factual knowledge relating to the very real historical characters and locales deployed to drive the narrative. In this particular text, the history focuses on the last kings of Bavaria before it was absorbed into the Second Reich, principally Ludwig II.. This is what initially brought this book to my attention. As always, the action packed narrative rooted deeply in the history of the Kingdom of Bavaria is well written, if occasionally needlessly convoluted (a characteristic typical of this genre), but that said, there is much to enjoy and learn from the narrative. The book offers a sort of back door admission into the history of the late nineteenth century as Europe prepared itself for the cataclysmic events surrounding the First World War.
December 7, 2022
I loved this book. As usual Mr. Berry combines history and action for an interesting story that keeps moving along, this time in Germany. The way Mr. Berry writes makes the reading effortless and prods the reader to keep going just a little further and a little further, until the book is over. His writing combined with the way the chapters are organized allowed me to read a little bit here and there throughout the day and then read more in the evenings. I normally don't read much during the day, but the story line being interesting and the way the book was organized, I found myself picking the book up for a few minutes here and there throughout the day to learn more about what was happening in the story. I was able to finish the book in a few days.
Some things I enjoyed about this book, are the addition of new characters that I am sure we will be seeing more of. Some of the usual characters were absent in this book, and others took on larger roles. I found this to be more believable than if the usual cast was always there. While there is still the expected adventure, the new characters brought out some new dimensions to the old characters and lent more realism to the story.
I was given an advanced reading copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Some things I enjoyed about this book, are the addition of new characters that I am sure we will be seeing more of. Some of the usual characters were absent in this book, and others took on larger roles. I found this to be more believable than if the usual cast was always there. While there is still the expected adventure, the new characters brought out some new dimensions to the old characters and lent more realism to the story.
I was given an advanced reading copy of this book in return for an honest review.
December 14, 2022
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a chance to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Cotton Malone and Luke Daniels are back in this novel set in Bavaria. I enjoyed the history and the action, my only disappointment was that the story really dragged on for a bit and I almost lost interest because of it.
I stuck it out and as the story came to its conclusion the opportunity to see some new friends is left open for future books.
All in all it was an okay and enjoyable read. I’ll continue to read these novels because they are enjoyable and the historical aspects are fascinating.
Cotton Malone and Luke Daniels are back in this novel set in Bavaria. I enjoyed the history and the action, my only disappointment was that the story really dragged on for a bit and I almost lost interest because of it.
I stuck it out and as the story came to its conclusion the opportunity to see some new friends is left open for future books.
All in all it was an okay and enjoyable read. I’ll continue to read these novels because they are enjoyable and the historical aspects are fascinating.
March 24, 2023
I found that this book has too many characters to keep track of and the plot was too drawn out to be very enjoyable.
August 2, 2023
Another fun ride with Steve Berry and Cotton Malone. I enjoyed getting to know the history of the kingdom of Bavaria and it’s enigmatic king Ludwig II and all of his family, but I didn’t expect I’ll also get acquainted with the coup that made the kingdom of Hawaii the 50th state.
Cotton’s adventures are always fun and this was equally good, especially because all the player’s motivations kept changing and the betrayals were pretty unexpected. It was nice to see Luke be a part of the team this time, as well as some new characters who I feel like we may not be seeing the last of. The mystery itself was interesting too, but I’ve come to expect that from the author. Overall a very enjoyable read which I finished very quickly and can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next.
Cotton’s adventures are always fun and this was equally good, especially because all the player’s motivations kept changing and the betrayals were pretty unexpected. It was nice to see Luke be a part of the team this time, as well as some new characters who I feel like we may not be seeing the last of. The mystery itself was interesting too, but I’ve come to expect that from the author. Overall a very enjoyable read which I finished very quickly and can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next.
November 25, 2022
400 pages
4 and 1 / 2 stars
What if one of the states of the United States really belonged to some else? The latest adventure in the Cotton Malone series posits just that question.
In 1886, King Ludwig (Wittlesbach) II of Bavaria was deposed and died only three days later. Was it an accident? Murder? He was an eccentric man who spent his fortune on lavish building projects. He also longed for a place where he would be left alone to ponder and rule as he wished. He was an escapist at heart.
Now three hundred years later in present day Germany and Bavaria, Ludwig’s descendants are on a mission to solve the mystery of whether Ludwig actually found a location for his new Bavaria. They are not the only ones searching for an explosive document. A document that could alter the geographic confirmation of the United States.
Cotton Malone, a semi-retired member of the Magellan Project, meets his protege Luke Daniels. Luke has managed to infiltrate a group which supports Bavarian independence from Germany. He has also fostered a relationship with one of the Wittlesbach heirs who fancies himself as the next King of Bavaria.
Steve Berry has a talent for creating interesting characters. They are well fleshed out. The reader of his fiction is treated not only to a rollicking adventure, but also to interesting and informative history lessons. I truly enjoy the parts of his books in which he explains what is true history (as we can know it.) I have read the entire Cotton Malone series and have never been let down.
I want to thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
4 and 1 / 2 stars
What if one of the states of the United States really belonged to some else? The latest adventure in the Cotton Malone series posits just that question.
In 1886, King Ludwig (Wittlesbach) II of Bavaria was deposed and died only three days later. Was it an accident? Murder? He was an eccentric man who spent his fortune on lavish building projects. He also longed for a place where he would be left alone to ponder and rule as he wished. He was an escapist at heart.
Now three hundred years later in present day Germany and Bavaria, Ludwig’s descendants are on a mission to solve the mystery of whether Ludwig actually found a location for his new Bavaria. They are not the only ones searching for an explosive document. A document that could alter the geographic confirmation of the United States.
Cotton Malone, a semi-retired member of the Magellan Project, meets his protege Luke Daniels. Luke has managed to infiltrate a group which supports Bavarian independence from Germany. He has also fostered a relationship with one of the Wittlesbach heirs who fancies himself as the next King of Bavaria.
Steve Berry has a talent for creating interesting characters. They are well fleshed out. The reader of his fiction is treated not only to a rollicking adventure, but also to interesting and informative history lessons. I truly enjoy the parts of his books in which he explains what is true history (as we can know it.) I have read the entire Cotton Malone series and have never been let down.
I want to thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
April 15, 2024
More like 4.25.
I really enjoyed it and it being set in Bavaria, where one side of my family is originally from, made it better. The reason it wasn't 5 stars is twofold. One, way too many parts to keep track of and it was really confusing until the last 50 pages. Secondly, not translating non-english words! Most of them were but there were a couple that weren't and it drives me nuts!
I really enjoyed it and it being set in Bavaria, where one side of my family is originally from, made it better. The reason it wasn't 5 stars is twofold. One, way too many parts to keep track of and it was really confusing until the last 50 pages. Secondly, not translating non-english words! Most of them were but there were a couple that weren't and it drives me nuts!
March 13, 2023
I went into The Last Kingdom with more than a bit of trepidation. I honestly did not like the previous book in the series and was hesitant on this one.
It started out as an improvement, but seemed to go downhill fast for me.
I was more interested in this one and that kept me going for a while.
Cotton was excellent, as always.
Luke Daniels has great promise as a main character.
There just seemed to be too many factions vying for this mysterious and hidden kingdom. It left me kind of bored with it. While I was reading, I never connected with a sense of urgency or importance for this one.
I may try the next Cotton Malone book. I may not.
Time will tell.
It started out as an improvement, but seemed to go downhill fast for me.
I was more interested in this one and that kept me going for a while.
Cotton was excellent, as always.
Luke Daniels has great promise as a main character.
There just seemed to be too many factions vying for this mysterious and hidden kingdom. It left me kind of bored with it. While I was reading, I never connected with a sense of urgency or importance for this one.
I may try the next Cotton Malone book. I may not.
Time will tell.
April 29, 2023
I used to really like Steve Berry, but each book within the last couple of years has been worse and worse. The plots are formulaic. The dialogue is stiff. The details are odd - such as why would an operative in the middle of chasing a bad guy with a gun bother to notice that the bench cushions were embellished with gold thread?
Steve should leave the action novels to Baldacci and start a tourist business since that’s what he appears to enjoy more.
Steve should leave the action novels to Baldacci and start a tourist business since that’s what he appears to enjoy more.
May 3, 2023
Audiobook
March 28, 2023
Steve Berry returns to his signature character Cotton Malone after a brief hiatus (he took last year off) with a new story that takes a very unique spin on US history, but also world history this time around once again. It's pretty clear from the start of the book, a prologue set in the royal halls of Mad King Ludwig of Bavaria, what other historical kingdom is going to be involved in the story this time - after all, his visiting king is a stout man, brown of skin, whose favorite hobby is playing the ukulele. It's a book that reminds us all that Hawaii was illegally annexed by the US in the late 19th century, while presenting a scenario that could shake the geopolitical table of the whole world once again, if allowed to be enacted. Unfortunately, Malone as a character falls by the wayside a bit in this one, overshadowed by the unique history and the lack of several of his usual traveling companions (no Cassiopeia Vitt, and no Stephanie Nelle because the asshat President Fox is hamstringing her, though at least Fox is presented as far less of a Trump-like idiot in this book compared to previous Berry novels.) I'm sure this one, though, will stick in my mind pretty well for quite some time afterwards.
March 7, 2023
Another outstanding book from a master of the spy thriller/historical mystery genre. Steve Berry infuses a modern tale of espionage in the intelligence world with a centuries-old mystery from the almost-magical land of Bavaria, now in modern-day Germany. This time, Cotton Malone is enlisted by his former protege and current Magellan Billet operative, Luke Daniels, to help with hid undercover work for a descendant of the last king of Bavaria. A secret arrangement made in the late 19th century between the then-kings of Bavaria and the Hawaiian Islands comes to light, as does its huge impact on current world politics. Per usual, a simple assignment for Malone is anything but, and he finds himself dealing with much more than he bargained for.
The action is solid, and the history/mystery is really interesting. As I read, I wondered how much of the history was real and what was imagined for literary purposes. And as with all of Steve Berry's books, there is a must-read Notes section at the end that explains just that. Really interesting.
The action is solid, and the history/mystery is really interesting. As I read, I wondered how much of the history was real and what was imagined for literary purposes. And as with all of Steve Berry's books, there is a must-read Notes section at the end that explains just that. Really interesting.
May 29, 2023
This is a very typical Steve Berry book, adventure and a treasure hunt involving Cotton Malone. This time, he is involved in a hunt for a deed that belonged to King Ludwig II that granted him a whole new kingdom. The book gives us a Bavarian history lesson, especially Ludwig II, and the castles he built. I might have mentioned this before, but as is typical with these kind of books written by Americans, there is a very strong bias towards the US. Of course, Cotton is an American agent, so he is working for the US government. But if one reads this just for the action, it's a pretty decent book.
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