Eight stars
There is nothing like reading one of Scott Mariani's novels in the Ben Hope series! Never a cookie-cutter style of writing, Mariani pulls on historical events and places them in a modern setting. Ben Hope is always on the run from something, spurred on to find answers and people, wherever it takes him. Hope ends up inside China, where many mysteries await him, as well as a number of dangerous traps. A quick-paced novel that adds to a wonderful series. Mariani is at the top of his game!
While Ben Hope has begun asking himself where to take the next chapter in his life, he is called to a party in Switzerland, where his sister is sharing some amazing news. While there, Ben is pulled into a panic after news comes from China that his soon to be brother-in-law's sister finds herself in trouble. Pulling on his past, Hope is convinced to at least explore what appears to be a kidnap attempt in the mysterious country. It may be out of his comfort zone, but Ben Hope is never one to let the chance to help pass him by.
While there are few answers upon Hope's arrival, he is soon targeted and attacked for poking into too much. Making a loose connection to a local detective, Hope seeks to make inroads before he is killed by some ruthless criminals. What seemed to be a missing girl's mystery soon turns into something historical and with many more impactful outcomes.
It would seem that the missing woman is in possession of something tied to one of China's first empires, with the Golden Library at its centre. A number of powerful warriors, who have been anything but calm, want answers and Ben Hope may be the only person keeping the mystery from being revealed. Racing for truths, safety, and to uncover the one thing that is creating such a violent reaction, Ben Hope will have to stay alive long enough to set the record straight. Highly adventurous and addictive, Scott Mariani has all the elements needed to keep this series moving forward!
There is something about a Scott Mariani novel that has me coming back each time. While there are a large number of books in the series, things rarely lose their impact, as Ben Hope is always looking out for something new. The story flows well and the action helps pump up the momentum. While things appear to move in a certain direction, there are always moves that change the story into something deeper and more steeped in history. Characters are varied and keep the story flavorful, with Ben Hope offering a little more about himself. There is something about this series that keeps me coming back and things have yet to show a hint of going stale.
Plot points keep things even more exciting. Mariani knows how to balance past with present, while peppering in a twist or two to ensure the reader stays with the moving narrative. I never find myself bored or without interest in what is going on, a hint that Scott Mariani is one author who knows how to keep the reader hooked. I am eager to see where things are headed and how I can join the adventure.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani, for delving into the ancient mysteries and coming up with another winner.
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