The Codex

The blurb on the front of my copy calls this book "Raiders of the Lost Ark meets The Amazing Race." After reading it, this strikes me as pretty much accurate. There's also a fair bit of humor, mostly in the form of Don Alphonso.

If you're looking for a great adventure story or a fluffy beach read, give this book a try.

I really enjoyed reading this book!!! Excellent story, and excellent characters!!!!

The Codex by Douglas Preston is an exhilarating adventure for the reader. The novel started off in an intriguing manner and worked many fascinating concepts into the plot, such as the inclusion of a priceless ancient Mayan codex. I'm always very impressed by how well thought out and solid the plots in Douglas Preston's books are. This one is no exception. The characters were all quite different from one another, so it was easy to stay attentive to what was going on. My only complaint with this novel was some killing of animals that took place during the course of the story. I'm quite sensitive to animal violence, so that took away from the story for me. After each incident where an animal died, I found myself temporarily displeased with the novel, but the strong plot and characters drew me back in. The animal killings weren't graphic or even unnecessary, but if you are sensitive to that sort of thing, consider yourself warned.

The Codex was a light, easy read. The short chapters provided lot of action without redundant detail. I'd certainly recommend this novel for someone looking for excitement. On a side note, the character Tom Broadbent from this novel is also included in Tyrannosaur Canyon by Douglas Preston, so you'll be able to read more about him if you find yourself fond of him.

I could't put this book down, its the best adventure book I have read in a long time. You're caught up in it until the very end. The friend I lent it to refuses to give it back. That says it all right there.