The Radix

John Brynstone, an agent for the US Special Collection Service, has been assigned to attain the Radix, an ancient relic with mystical powers. Because of these powers, there are numerous persons and groups vying to possess it. Billed as a historical mystery, "The Radix" comes across much more as a thriller and you will be hard-pressed to put this book down. This is Brett King's debut novel which he deftly combines fiction with historical facts and events. He admits in the author's note at the end of the book that he took liberties with some events, but it doesn't really matter as we are engrossed in a mix of non-stop action, plot twists, unbreakable codes and secret organizations. The best part may be that we can look forward to the sequel in early 2011. Reviewed by Matt McElreath for Suspense Magazine [...]

This novel was fast-paced and full of twists and turns. There are cars to be chased, choppers to be crash-landed, bullets to be dodged, complex codes and riddles to be solved, and a wonderful plot based on historical legend that kept me enthralled from page 1 to the end of the Author's Notes. Best book I've read in a very long time. The Radix will not disappoint!

I am a rather avid reader and started a list of books read so I don't purchase the same ones twice (getting older!). This is book 143 on the list chronologically however I put it at the top of all books as it is one of those special books that you better not start unless you have time to keep reading to the fantastic finish. I can't imagine the research it took the author to find and tie so many places and events in history together in this incredible thriller. I could hardly resist heading to the Internet to dig into some of the people, places, and historical information that keeps coming up but I could not stop reading! I absolutely can't wait for his next book!

For anyone who likes Robert Ludlum or Steve Berry then this is the book for you. The book is full of action and mystery right from the beginning and doesn't stop until the end. The historical fiction, which although exaggerated or changed to fit the plot at times, always leaves the reader interested and wanting to know more. For example, after reading The Radix, I went out and bought a book about Carl Jung just to find out more about him after his fascinating role in the book. I can't wait for the sequel.

The Radix was an exciting novel throughout and never leaves you bored. Even though I am not a big fan of the historical fiction genre, the way the author weaves tidbits of history into the story left me reading as fast as I could to learn more. I really liked the protagonist of the book, Brynstone, and hope to learn more about his character and background in the next book. I also loved the focus on Carl Jung whom the author portrays well while exploring the mysteries that surrounded his life. I recommend this book to anyone, especially if you are a fan of authors such as James Rollins or James Clavell.