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Culper Ring #1
The Inner Circle
The best-kept secret of the U.S. Presidency is about to be revealed.
"There are stories no one knows. Hidden stories. I love those stories. And since I work in the National Archives, I find those stories for a living."
Beecher White, a young archivist, spends his days working with the most important documents of the U.S. government. He has always been the keeper of other people's stories, never a part of the story himself . . . Until now.
When Clementine Kaye, Beecher's first childhood crush, shows up at the National Archives asking for his help tracking down her long-lost father, Beecher tries to impress her by showing her the secret vault where the President of the United States privately reviews classified documents. After they accidentally happen upon a priceless artifact—a two-hundred-year-old dictionary that once belonged to George Washington—hidden underneath a desk chair, Beecher and Clementine find themselves suddenly entangled in a web of deception, conspiracy, and murder.
Soon a man is dead and Beecher is on the run as he races to learn the truth behind this mysterious national treasure. His search will lead him to discover a coded and ingenious puzzle that conceals a disturbing secret from the founding of our nation. It is a secret, Beecher soon discovers, that some believe is worth killing for.
"There are stories no one knows. Hidden stories. I love those stories. And since I work in the National Archives, I find those stories for a living."
Beecher White, a young archivist, spends his days working with the most important documents of the U.S. government. He has always been the keeper of other people's stories, never a part of the story himself . . . Until now.
When Clementine Kaye, Beecher's first childhood crush, shows up at the National Archives asking for his help tracking down her long-lost father, Beecher tries to impress her by showing her the secret vault where the President of the United States privately reviews classified documents. After they accidentally happen upon a priceless artifact—a two-hundred-year-old dictionary that once belonged to George Washington—hidden underneath a desk chair, Beecher and Clementine find themselves suddenly entangled in a web of deception, conspiracy, and murder.
Soon a man is dead and Beecher is on the run as he races to learn the truth behind this mysterious national treasure. His search will lead him to discover a coded and ingenious puzzle that conceals a disturbing secret from the founding of our nation. It is a secret, Beecher soon discovers, that some believe is worth killing for.
449 pages, Hardcover
First published January 11, 2011
2851 people are currently reading
11119 people want to read
About the author
Brad Meltzer
321 books7,212 followersBrad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod, The Escape Artist, and eleven other bestselling thrillers. He also writes non-fiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, about a secret plot to kill JFK before he was sworn in – and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series, which he does with Chris Eliopoulos and inspired the PBS KIDS TV show, Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. His newest kids books are We are the Beatles, We are the Beatles, and I am Simone Biles. His newest inspirational book is Make Magic, based on his viral commencement address.
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,955 reviews
October 17, 2011
This was my first Brad Meltzer book, and it started out well, but as time went on, a few things became painfully obvious:
1. "No one is who they appear to be at first." And I mean, no one. Not a single named character escapes this cliche.
2. Towards the second half of the book, we get hit with Dan-Brown mini chapters, intended to add suspense, but only achieve a sense of talking to the reader as if he/she is 5 years old.
3. The plot gets more and more and more convoluted...I halfway expected space aliens or mole people to emerge as the masterminds. Then again, when the plot collapses on itself in a rushed made-for-tv movie-like dramatic moment (in a puddle, in a cave) we're repeatedly reminded by the author that he has left plot threads dangling, unresolved...
4. ... because he's already working on a sequel! Did you notice that I introduced these unresolved plot threads during the final 75 pages? Then pointed them out in mini-chapters?
Meltzer seems like a smart guy, well versed in historical and military lore, but this book feels like his publisher requested a "Dan Brown series of novels".
1. "No one is who they appear to be at first." And I mean, no one. Not a single named character escapes this cliche.
2. Towards the second half of the book, we get hit with Dan-Brown mini chapters, intended to add suspense, but only achieve a sense of talking to the reader as if he/she is 5 years old.
3. The plot gets more and more and more convoluted...I halfway expected space aliens or mole people to emerge as the masterminds. Then again, when the plot collapses on itself in a rushed made-for-tv movie-like dramatic moment (in a puddle, in a cave) we're repeatedly reminded by the author that he has left plot threads dangling, unresolved...
4. ... because he's already working on a sequel! Did you notice that I introduced these unresolved plot threads during the final 75 pages? Then pointed them out in mini-chapters?
Meltzer seems like a smart guy, well versed in historical and military lore, but this book feels like his publisher requested a "Dan Brown series of novels".
March 2, 2013
I love books with the whole historical conspiracy thing and I like Brad Meltzer, but this one was a miss. Since it's a Brad Meltzer book, I expect a certain amount of sad sackness to the protagonist, but this one was too much to take. And there were too many moments where everything stopped for exposition from people who would not normally do such a thing, in situations that no one would normally do it. And some situations, I just didn't buy. If you've never read Meltzer's books, do yourself a favor and read The Zero Game instead.
October 13, 2018
Let me go slowly here...I wish I could find a way to rate this book by various categories within the book. In other words I give the idea/plot 5 stars and the actual storytelling a 2. At best much of the time.
Let me also say this, I'm interested enough in the "story" that I plan to move on to the next book. You will see I went with a 3 star rating (or maybe you've seen already, ha...). This is about as close as I can come to reflecting my thoughts and feelings on this book in a single rating.
We have a plot set among the documents stored in the U.S. Archives. Now we get subjective as that alone drew me in and piqued my interest. The plot/story itself is one of conspiracy, history, espionage and murder. Sadly there is another facet to the book.
I think someone may need to explain to Mr. Meltzer that it's possible to write about an annoying and frustrating person without making the actual storytelling frustrating. There were times when I almost set the book aside out of frustration with Beecher.
The idea is (I'm sure) to place a normal or every-person into the center of the situation...a situation where death is hoovering over his shoulder and a love from his youth has shown up in his present (just after he was dumped by his fiancée) and at least seems to need his help.
But Beecher...Beecher is...well, he's a nudge. And he's a whiny nudge at that. He's also pretty slow for a big part of the book. We get a repetitive, frustrating narrative. We get a book that puts me in mind of how Bilbo Baggins says he feels, “I feel thin, sort of stretched, like butter scraped over too much bread.”. That's this book. We simply have too much book for the story it's telling.
Okay rant over as I said I (overall) like the book, recommend the book and plan to follow the story into the following volume. Just be aware that if you're anything like me you may (at least occasionally) want to slap Beecher "up side his head" and shake him.
Of course it could be just me...
Let me also say this, I'm interested enough in the "story" that I plan to move on to the next book. You will see I went with a 3 star rating (or maybe you've seen already, ha...). This is about as close as I can come to reflecting my thoughts and feelings on this book in a single rating.
We have a plot set among the documents stored in the U.S. Archives. Now we get subjective as that alone drew me in and piqued my interest. The plot/story itself is one of conspiracy, history, espionage and murder. Sadly there is another facet to the book.
I think someone may need to explain to Mr. Meltzer that it's possible to write about an annoying and frustrating person without making the actual storytelling frustrating. There were times when I almost set the book aside out of frustration with Beecher.
The idea is (I'm sure) to place a normal or every-person into the center of the situation...a situation where death is hoovering over his shoulder and a love from his youth has shown up in his present (just after he was dumped by his fiancée) and at least seems to need his help.
But Beecher...Beecher is...well, he's a nudge. And he's a whiny nudge at that. He's also pretty slow for a big part of the book. We get a repetitive, frustrating narrative. We get a book that puts me in mind of how Bilbo Baggins says he feels, “I feel thin, sort of stretched, like butter scraped over too much bread.”. That's this book. We simply have too much book for the story it's telling.
Okay rant over as I said I (overall) like the book, recommend the book and plan to follow the story into the following volume. Just be aware that if you're anything like me you may (at least occasionally) want to slap Beecher "up side his head" and shake him.
Of course it could be just me...
May 18, 2011
If you're not a Brad Meltzer fan yet, you will be after you read this book. Released earlier this year to rave reviews, it looks like we have the beginning episode in a series featuring our reluctant, mildly dorky, intellectual but - inexperienced in espionage - hero - Beecher. Meltzer's attention to detail and his well known expertise in American History play in beautifully here as the plot deepens, thickens and splinters into several directions. Secret groups bent on preserving the presidency and national security at ANY cost, people with their own agendas, dirty deeds done dirt cheap that end up costing a nation it's security and maybe even a President his office. Beecher intends to do the right thing - even if it costs him his life. Ya gotta love this guy, a very easy HERO to relate to, though I wouldn't call him that to his face. The girl? If you ask me I wouldn't trust her as far as I could throw her(and I'd like to - literally...)but our man cares for her....so....let him find out for himself....
I highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to more from Brad in the future. I'll be also taking a read through his backlist. Many of you out there in readerland know Brad's work well, I just read my first one but it will not be my last! You can also find Brad on Twitter.
Just want to add this too: I'm both a writer and a huge fan of thriller fiction, so for me this book was a great read. Many of us on our way up look to other authors for all the elements of art and craft and Brad certainly has them mastered.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
I started reading Brad Meltzer's "The Inner Circle" over the weekend, this being my 1st Meltzer book. Meltzer is a writer whose style and intelligence level, and love of history and micro managed detail are so intertwined, like Steve Berry's, you KNOW you're in for a good ride and that's exactly what Brad delivers here.
The story; An insecure archivist at a national book and priceless collection vault in DC stumbles onto a secret document while prepping a secret meeting room for the prez of the U.S. There's a torn book once owned by George Washington, a girl from our hero's past involved and a wise-ass co-worker also in the mix. Meltzer skillfully paints the portrait of a thriller from word one, page one, switches pov's like the pro that he is and uses dialogue so well to fill us in on what we're doing and where we're going. Good stuff so far, I will keep you posted.
I highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to more from Brad in the future. I'll be also taking a read through his backlist. Many of you out there in readerland know Brad's work well, I just read my first one but it will not be my last! You can also find Brad on Twitter.
Just want to add this too: I'm both a writer and a huge fan of thriller fiction, so for me this book was a great read. Many of us on our way up look to other authors for all the elements of art and craft and Brad certainly has them mastered.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
I started reading Brad Meltzer's "The Inner Circle" over the weekend, this being my 1st Meltzer book. Meltzer is a writer whose style and intelligence level, and love of history and micro managed detail are so intertwined, like Steve Berry's, you KNOW you're in for a good ride and that's exactly what Brad delivers here.
The story; An insecure archivist at a national book and priceless collection vault in DC stumbles onto a secret document while prepping a secret meeting room for the prez of the U.S. There's a torn book once owned by George Washington, a girl from our hero's past involved and a wise-ass co-worker also in the mix. Meltzer skillfully paints the portrait of a thriller from word one, page one, switches pov's like the pro that he is and uses dialogue so well to fill us in on what we're doing and where we're going. Good stuff so far, I will keep you posted.
April 17, 2011
I had lost faith in Brad Meltzer. His stellar explosion onto the political thriller scene in the late '90s and early '00s was very welcome. Grisham had moved on to "Italy," Baldacci had begun a storytelling "plausible-deniability" period with his Camel Club series, and the rest of the landscape was trying to create plot lines around the new national dread - terrorism.
Meltzer came on the scene with three great reads having different branches of government taking center stage: "First Counsel" (White House); "The Tenth Justice" (Supreme Court); and "The Zero Game" (Congress). Then came the "Books." "The Book of Fate" and "The Book of Lies" rivaled each other in having their reader ask the worse possible question: do I really want to finish? He had clearly run out of interesting branches of government!
Now comes "Inner Circle." I almost passed. But Meltzer has found a new "branch" of government -- the National Archives! His lead - Beecher - and his mentor, Tot, make archivists cool. Well ... interesting. Though "Inner Circle" isn't up to the caliber of his first three, despite some really good historical underpinnings, it is a sign of recovery from Meltzer's most recent subpar performances. Whatever you do, do NOT expect "Inner Circle" to give you the complete plausibility which comes with truly great thrillers. But be happy for a good writer struggling to get back on form.
Meltzer came on the scene with three great reads having different branches of government taking center stage: "First Counsel" (White House); "The Tenth Justice" (Supreme Court); and "The Zero Game" (Congress). Then came the "Books." "The Book of Fate" and "The Book of Lies" rivaled each other in having their reader ask the worse possible question: do I really want to finish? He had clearly run out of interesting branches of government!
Now comes "Inner Circle." I almost passed. But Meltzer has found a new "branch" of government -- the National Archives! His lead - Beecher - and his mentor, Tot, make archivists cool. Well ... interesting. Though "Inner Circle" isn't up to the caliber of his first three, despite some really good historical underpinnings, it is a sign of recovery from Meltzer's most recent subpar performances. Whatever you do, do NOT expect "Inner Circle" to give you the complete plausibility which comes with truly great thrillers. But be happy for a good writer struggling to get back on form.
April 23, 2022
You really need to be able to deal with major uncertainty to enjoy this read ... who can be trusted is a question the answer to which is constantly changing ... exciting action, interesting characters, and a plot that captivates ... the ending, however, was strained and just a tad unsatisfying (which is why 4**** rather than 5*****)
February 1, 2011
This book starts off with an incredibly implausible scene. Beecher, an archivist, is helping an old the friend in the archives try to locate some information about her long-lost father (who turns out to be in an asylum for the criminally insane after attempting to assassinate the president.) He is showing her a SCIF room, very private rooms where the president and other special dignitaries can view especially important and secret documents without being spied upon (why would they have surveillance videos in the room then? Anyway, Beecher spills coffee and knocks over a chair revealing a hidden document which for some bizarre reason (the room might be being used as a blind drop site) Beecher and the security guard friend feel they must take and investigate. The guard squirrels away a copy of the security video to hide that they were in the room and then he is murder. Inexplicably, Beecher becomes immediately paranoid assuming everyone else knows something is is out to get him. My crap detector was into overdrive by this point.
The premise is not a bad one, and I love books that integrate historical facts to build alternate conspiracy theory type of story. The Culper Ring was a group of spies working for George Washington. This group actually existed, but Meltzer takes it one further, building his plot around the continuation of the ring as a conspiracy to well, you know, take over the world. Supposedly they communicated by using special invisible inks and sending messages on pages in books in the Library of Congress and the National Archives. Clementine (Clemmi for short if you can swallow it,) is an old friend of Beecher (his fiance had recently died, of course) and, we learn, the unknown daughter of Nico who had assassinated the president’s wife, missing the president, and is now incarcerated in a mental institution. The implausibilities continue to build.
That’s enough. A big disappointment.
Smacks of a badly done DeVinci Code. I received this book free as an advance reader copy.
The premise is not a bad one, and I love books that integrate historical facts to build alternate conspiracy theory type of story. The Culper Ring was a group of spies working for George Washington. This group actually existed, but Meltzer takes it one further, building his plot around the continuation of the ring as a conspiracy to well, you know, take over the world. Supposedly they communicated by using special invisible inks and sending messages on pages in books in the Library of Congress and the National Archives. Clementine (Clemmi for short if you can swallow it,) is an old friend of Beecher (his fiance had recently died, of course) and, we learn, the unknown daughter of Nico who had assassinated the president’s wife, missing the president, and is now incarcerated in a mental institution. The implausibilities continue to build.
That’s enough. A big disappointment.
Smacks of a badly done DeVinci Code. I received this book free as an advance reader copy.
January 4, 2011
The Inner Circle is a smart political adventure full of intriguing mystery. The novel starts with a bang and continues at a thrilling pace until the very last word. Brad Meltzer takes political history and turns it on its ear. Creating a massive presidential conspiracy theory that surpasses even the wildest of imaginations, Meltzer convincingly leads the reader on a joyride through the darkest of presidential secrets.
Beecher White is a compelling lead. An average guy with job steeped in history finds himself caught in a fight for his life. Racing to learn the truth before his time runs out, Beecher loses his naivety and learns that the advice "trust no one" is harder than it may seem.
The Inner Circle could easily be compared to The Da Vinci Code. The historical attributes and adventure feel is the same. The Inner Circle replaces religion with politics and adds a more intellectual feel though.
The Inner Circle is a thoroughly modern novel, though it leans heavily on events in the past. It's a wonderful mix of old and new with a mystery that'll spin you in circles. I was blown away by this novel. Reading The Inner Circle is, by far, the best adventure I've been on in quite a while.
Beecher White is a compelling lead. An average guy with job steeped in history finds himself caught in a fight for his life. Racing to learn the truth before his time runs out, Beecher loses his naivety and learns that the advice "trust no one" is harder than it may seem.
The Inner Circle could easily be compared to The Da Vinci Code. The historical attributes and adventure feel is the same. The Inner Circle replaces religion with politics and adds a more intellectual feel though.
The Inner Circle is a thoroughly modern novel, though it leans heavily on events in the past. It's a wonderful mix of old and new with a mystery that'll spin you in circles. I was blown away by this novel. Reading The Inner Circle is, by far, the best adventure I've been on in quite a while.
July 8, 2022
3.5-- take this review as it is, because I listened to the entire 14 hour audiobook in about 4 days because it was due back at the library. I may have enjoyed it more if not so rushed!
The premise was great, and I enjoyed many of the twists and turns that the plot took. Yeah, not everything seemed feasible, but it was fun to follow, especially in the last quarter or so. Some of the characters were hard for me to keep track of, and at times I couldn't remember who was privy to what information, or who were the good guys and who were the bad guys.
I love Brad, and though this wasn't my favorite of his books, I can respect that it's a fine story. I think I'll Escape Artist next.
The premise was great, and I enjoyed many of the twists and turns that the plot took. Yeah, not everything seemed feasible, but it was fun to follow, especially in the last quarter or so. Some of the characters were hard for me to keep track of, and at times I couldn't remember who was privy to what information, or who were the good guys and who were the bad guys.
I love Brad, and though this wasn't my favorite of his books, I can respect that it's a fine story. I think I'll Escape Artist next.
February 7, 2013
This story is longer than necessary. There are interesting conspiracy plots , but the main characters are not strong and become distracting. 6 of 10 stars
February 27, 2016
My first Brad Meltzer book, great read, very entertaining!
November 19, 2016
I've tried this several times over the past couple of months thinking I might have been in a bad mood since I didn't like it so much yet it really wasn't that offensive. It's decently read & while I don't care all that much for the main character, several supporting characters are good.
The initial scenes are absurd & it took far too long to get to the point. Both are bad in a story & together they've just killed all desire. It's a shame since the description made it seem interesting. Belatedly (Bad, Jim!) I looked at my friends' reviews & see 1 & 2 stars. Dumb. I should have looked sooner & saved myself the aggravation.
The initial scenes are absurd & it took far too long to get to the point. Both are bad in a story & together they've just killed all desire. It's a shame since the description made it seem interesting. Belatedly (Bad, Jim!) I looked at my friends' reviews & see 1 & 2 stars. Dumb. I should have looked sooner & saved myself the aggravation.
March 3, 2011
When Michael Crichton published "The Lost World" a few years ago, I felt like I was reading the screenplay for the upcoming "Jurassic Park" sequel rather than an actual novel. A similar thing happened reading Brad Meltzer's latest novel "The Inner Circle."
The story itself is a popcorn thriller of a book. The story opens with archivist Benjamin January preparing for a meeting with his old high school crush, Clementine. She's contacted him again via Facebook and needs his help with tracking down the identity of her father. Scarred from the death of his fiancee several years before, Ben can't help but wonder how much of a reconnection there could be with his long-lost crush.
Clementine's visit to the National Archives coincides with the day that the President is going to drop by to look at some documents, in a room that insures privacy. Ben decides to show off the room to Clementine and thanks to a spilled cup of coffee, they quickly become caught up in a far-reaching historical intrigue that reaches back to the days when George Washington was governing the United States.
From there, deaths begin to occur around Ben as he realizes he's stumbled across something greater.
If you're willing to accept this story as a mindless Hollywood action thriller in print form, you're likely to enjoy it a lot more than I did. Not taking too long out to question things that are developing and how and why they're developing will help as well. At times, "The Inner Circle" feels a bit like its trying to be another entry in Dan Brown's "The DaVinci Code" series. As I said before, the novel feels like it's just crying out to become a movie or a screenplay--and it could work as a mindless, fun action thriller.
But there are points when the story tries and wants to be more and comes up frustratingly short. Character motivations change from chapter to chapter and while Ben and Clementine are given some backstory, every other character feels two-dimensional. Meltzer falls into the trap of springing flashbacks into the story at points when he needs to introduce a piece of Ben and Clementine's past to the readers but couldn't quite dream up a way to do it within the story itself.
Overall, a fairly uneven reading experience. But if you're looking for a good, popcorn novel (mayhaps to read on while on a plane or traveling), this one might fit the bill.
The story itself is a popcorn thriller of a book. The story opens with archivist Benjamin January preparing for a meeting with his old high school crush, Clementine. She's contacted him again via Facebook and needs his help with tracking down the identity of her father. Scarred from the death of his fiancee several years before, Ben can't help but wonder how much of a reconnection there could be with his long-lost crush.
Clementine's visit to the National Archives coincides with the day that the President is going to drop by to look at some documents, in a room that insures privacy. Ben decides to show off the room to Clementine and thanks to a spilled cup of coffee, they quickly become caught up in a far-reaching historical intrigue that reaches back to the days when George Washington was governing the United States.
From there, deaths begin to occur around Ben as he realizes he's stumbled across something greater.
If you're willing to accept this story as a mindless Hollywood action thriller in print form, you're likely to enjoy it a lot more than I did. Not taking too long out to question things that are developing and how and why they're developing will help as well. At times, "The Inner Circle" feels a bit like its trying to be another entry in Dan Brown's "The DaVinci Code" series. As I said before, the novel feels like it's just crying out to become a movie or a screenplay--and it could work as a mindless, fun action thriller.
But there are points when the story tries and wants to be more and comes up frustratingly short. Character motivations change from chapter to chapter and while Ben and Clementine are given some backstory, every other character feels two-dimensional. Meltzer falls into the trap of springing flashbacks into the story at points when he needs to introduce a piece of Ben and Clementine's past to the readers but couldn't quite dream up a way to do it within the story itself.
Overall, a fairly uneven reading experience. But if you're looking for a good, popcorn novel (mayhaps to read on while on a plane or traveling), this one might fit the bill.
July 30, 2011
Meltzer puts out another great novel! He brings conspiracy to the forefront and makes you wonder what is REALLY going on inside US Politics.
Read
May 2, 2012In 1778, a man by the name of Benjamin Tallmadge organized a spy network in New York City, right in the middle of the British troops. Tallmadge was acting under the order of George Washington himself, and the purpose of this group was to pass information about the British to General Washington. This much is generally known, but what if that group of spies didn’t disband after the Revolutionary War? What if the group known as the Culper Ring continued to work behind the scenes protecting the presidency for over 200 years? “The Inner Circle” by Brad Meltzer delves into this clandestine group and reveals conspiracy, betrayal, blackmail and murder.
Beecher White, a young archivist working for the National Archives in Washington D.C., has spent his professional life digging up stories and finding answers for other people, but when his childhood crush Clementine Kaye contacts him with a request for help in tracking down the identity of her father, he’s thrilled that he finally gets to play a small role in one of the stories.
Hoping to impress Clementine, Beecher takes her into an off limits area, a seemingly insignificant act that has major consequences. Soon, a security officer is dead, and Beecher and Clementine are both being scrutinized by people at the highest levels.
Determined to find who was behind the death and why everyone from the head of security of the National Archives to the President of the United States is interested in him, Beecher digs deeper into the mystery surrounding a man who has been visiting the Archives for over 150 years and uncovers more questions than answers. Without knowing who he can trust or where he can turn for help, he has to unlock the secrets that surround the mysterious Culper Ring.
“The Inner Circle” is a fast paced, political thriller with a plot that twists and turns into a maze of conspiracy, deception, and cover ups. At times, the plot gets a little hard to follow, and the book is clearly setting itself up as the beginning of a series, but “The Inner Circle” is still a page turner that will keep you up until you’ve reached the final chapter.
Beecher White, a young archivist working for the National Archives in Washington D.C., has spent his professional life digging up stories and finding answers for other people, but when his childhood crush Clementine Kaye contacts him with a request for help in tracking down the identity of her father, he’s thrilled that he finally gets to play a small role in one of the stories.
Hoping to impress Clementine, Beecher takes her into an off limits area, a seemingly insignificant act that has major consequences. Soon, a security officer is dead, and Beecher and Clementine are both being scrutinized by people at the highest levels.
Determined to find who was behind the death and why everyone from the head of security of the National Archives to the President of the United States is interested in him, Beecher digs deeper into the mystery surrounding a man who has been visiting the Archives for over 150 years and uncovers more questions than answers. Without knowing who he can trust or where he can turn for help, he has to unlock the secrets that surround the mysterious Culper Ring.
“The Inner Circle” is a fast paced, political thriller with a plot that twists and turns into a maze of conspiracy, deception, and cover ups. At times, the plot gets a little hard to follow, and the book is clearly setting itself up as the beginning of a series, but “The Inner Circle” is still a page turner that will keep you up until you’ve reached the final chapter.
July 28, 2017
This book was the worst book I've read (listened to actually) in years. I've read that Meltzer's earlier work was better, but I'm going to have a tough time going back to anything by the author after this trite.
The main character is an idiot. A boring, unsympathetic, whiny idiot. The vast majority of the side characters aren't any better. There was a somewhat interesting mystery at the start, but after the 971st ridiculous plot twist, it really started to lose me. There was some interesting historical information I guess? So, one positive.
I wasn't really hoping for much. Generic fun would have been more than adequate, but this isn't even close to that.
The main character is an idiot. A boring, unsympathetic, whiny idiot. The vast majority of the side characters aren't any better. There was a somewhat interesting mystery at the start, but after the 971st ridiculous plot twist, it really started to lose me. There was some interesting historical information I guess? So, one positive.
I wasn't really hoping for much. Generic fun would have been more than adequate, but this isn't even close to that.
February 3, 2017
this book for sure is a page turner. I started it and could not walk away. Brad definitely can tell a story. Beecher is an incredible character. If you read this book I hope you have a map because you are sure to get lost in it.
December 27, 2024
brad writes such a wide variety of books and is good at them all - just a really talented guy all around
May 18, 2013
I approach any book I read with an innocent until proven guilty attitude; I plunge into a book expecting and hoping to like it. Though I had been intrigued by the premises of Meltzer's books, it wasn't until I read a really touching and well-crafted blog dedicated to his late father that I felt compelled to read one of his novels. Meltzer's premises often tap into little known facts or "secrets" in American history. Think "National Treasure" type adventure novels. So here was the perfect set-up - a book I wanted to like, by an author whose essay I had loved, about a subject (American history) of which I am an enthusiast. What could possibly go wrong? Well, the plot actually. A roller coaster, convoluted, completely unbelievable plot. In retrospect I learned that Meltzer also writes comic books. Ah-ha. That explains the comic book aspect of this novel. I'm not sure what it is about these promising American history meet contemporary action novels that have been so disappointing to me of late. There are three that I have read in the past year and considered duds. The terrain is fertile, but the authors allow the harvest to spoil.
July 14, 2020
2020 bk 238. I came across Brad Meltzer's television shows on Amazon prime and realized that while I knew who he was, and had read some of his non-fiction, that I had never read the fiction titles. I picked up the Inner Circle - and fell into a world of suspense centered around the National Archives, a President with shady doings in his past, a former assassin. I enjoyed the story, convoluted as it was. Brad is writing for a general audience, the chapters are short, containing one element of the plot and no others. It is one that can be read, put down, and then picked back up again. There is enough repetition of the back story as told from a slightly different point of view that the reader cannot find themselves lost. An enjoyable adventure.
March 29, 2017
I picked up this book in the search for finding additional writing like David Baldacci, one of my favorite authors, and was pleasantly surprised with this book and author (who was new to me).
I enjoyed the context, having lived in DC previously, and liked reliving some of the highlights of that city. I also enjoyed the conspiracy aspect of this series. It wasn't as fast paced as I'm used to with Baldacci and I hoped for more action from the main character and a little less…sappiness, but that in no way made this a bad read. I'll definitely be continuing on in the series and look forward to book 2.
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This was an audiobook read for me
I enjoyed the context, having lived in DC previously, and liked reliving some of the highlights of that city. I also enjoyed the conspiracy aspect of this series. It wasn't as fast paced as I'm used to with Baldacci and I hoped for more action from the main character and a little less…sappiness, but that in no way made this a bad read. I'll definitely be continuing on in the series and look forward to book 2.
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This was an audiobook read for me
July 19, 2011
Avid watchers of the History Channel have more than likely seen, or at least heard about, Brad Meltzer. He is, in some ways, to the History Channel what Alton Brown is to the Food Channel. Meltzer's show "Decoded" is the "Good Eats" for conspiracy theorists, a well-researched, melodramatic, funny, tongue-in-cheek look at everything from the Lincoln assassination to the Mayan end-of-the-world-in-2012 prophecies. Meltzer is also a bestselling author of more than a dozen novels, most of them involving cleverly-constructed conspiracy theories. His latest "The Inner Circle" is set in modern-day Washington, D.C. at the National Archives. When Beecher White, an archivist, accidentally finds a rare document hidden under a seat in the Presidential Reading Room, the incident ignites a sudden race that involves murder, cover-ups, a presidential assassin, and a legendary spy ring started by George Washington during the First Administration. Fast-paced and enjoyable, "The Inner Circle" is an excellent edge-of-the-seat thriller perfect for a rainy afternoon or a relaxing day at the beach. For fans of Dan Brown, Meltzer is a worthy alternative.
June 17, 2011
The worst Brad Meltzer book in his published career. Then again, because I usually enjoy this author, maybe my expectations were too high.
The first BM i read was THE MILLIONAIRES whenever that one was new. I couldnt put it down. it was so good that i read THE FIRST COUNSEL shortly after. I never read the same author back-to-back so that was a big deal. DEAD EVEN was a lot of fun!
THE INNER CIRCLE tasted the same as THE BOOK OF LIES & THE BOOK OF FATE. It almost seems as if Meltzer has gotten too comfortable with the insecure childless single 30yr old man caught between a rock and a historical conspiracy hardplace. I swear it was much like reading the same exact book after someone went and shook some of the words around.
OH and what a terrible ending. No spoilers but expect a lot of finger pointing and "Beacher, listen to me! ..." on replay.
Not my favorite. Will not be re-reading or recommending. I'll wait for the next one.
The first BM i read was THE MILLIONAIRES whenever that one was new. I couldnt put it down. it was so good that i read THE FIRST COUNSEL shortly after. I never read the same author back-to-back so that was a big deal. DEAD EVEN was a lot of fun!
THE INNER CIRCLE tasted the same as THE BOOK OF LIES & THE BOOK OF FATE. It almost seems as if Meltzer has gotten too comfortable with the insecure childless single 30yr old man caught between a rock and a historical conspiracy hardplace. I swear it was much like reading the same exact book after someone went and shook some of the words around.
OH and what a terrible ending. No spoilers but expect a lot of finger pointing and "Beacher, listen to me! ..." on replay.
Not my favorite. Will not be re-reading or recommending. I'll wait for the next one.
September 1, 2013
I enjoyed this thriller set in and around the DC area. I found myself very familiar with many of the places mentioned throughout the story. I had a problem with the timeline. Ten years ago there was an assassination attempt on the President of the United States and around that time the First Lady was killed. This First Family was not the Clintons, either of the Bush families, or the Obamas, but all of those First Families are discussed and apparently held their office as history reports it. Now, there is a new President, but 14 years ago email was still a little known thing. I had trouble with when this story was taking place and it was to a point of distraction from the story. Otherwise, it was a fast-paced, cliff hanger thriller. I felt the ending was a little weak, but it was set up nicely for a sequel.
March 21, 2022
This was my first introduction to Brad Meltzer. Being a big fan of David Baldacci and hearing Meltzer compared to him, I was excited to see what he was like. I was let down. The storyline was very convoluted. It kept going back and forth on who are the good guys and who are the bad guys. Where usually you would say “it kept me in suspense until the very end”, this one just kept me confused til the very end!
I will say the whole concept of the storyline was great. It just wasn’t written in a way that lived up to it’s potential.
I’m not giving up on Meltzer though. I’ve heard his “Zig & Nola” books are great (The Escape Artist), and I’m looking forward to reading those!
I will say the whole concept of the storyline was great. It just wasn’t written in a way that lived up to it’s potential.
I’m not giving up on Meltzer though. I’ve heard his “Zig & Nola” books are great (The Escape Artist), and I’m looking forward to reading those!
December 19, 2024
I like Brad Meltzer as a writer...I really do. This book wants to straddle a line between The DaVinci Code and National Treasure. It is partially successful as the first two thirds of the book string you along with a series of unearthed/turned over clues but all along there was a feeling it couldn't be real and by the time you get to the final third....it all seems like hogwash. I have other books in this series and may read them because I did pay for them, but I'm not in a rush to do it and for me that says a lot. Decent book but failed to live up to its own expectations and potential. Thus the three star rating.
November 5, 2017
This is the first book that I've read by Brad Meltzer, and I really enjoyed it. Having never read another of his books, I can't make any kind of comparison.
Washington D. C. is the setting for this political thriller with flashbacks of earlier memories. A story filled with so many twists and turns including betrayal, conspiracy, and murder. We learn about the Culper Ring & the Plumbers. Which to trust? Meltzer also provides lots of historical details including facts about George Washington.
Washington D. C. is the setting for this political thriller with flashbacks of earlier memories. A story filled with so many twists and turns including betrayal, conspiracy, and murder. We learn about the Culper Ring & the Plumbers. Which to trust? Meltzer also provides lots of historical details including facts about George Washington.
February 29, 2020
A story of political intrigue that didn’t really intrigue me. There were some twists and turns, the main characters were real enough, and there was a sufficient dose of historical facts mixed in with the fiction to give the story legitimacy. But, there was a je ne sais quoi missing in order for the story to fully draw me in. Spoiler alert: all these years I thought the industrial/military complex was pulling the strings and turns out to be the Culper Ring! Confession: I listened to the audiobook version. There is a difference between reading and listening to book.
July 12, 2015
Grandma,
I'm so sorry I sent this to you last Christmas. I know it was signed by the author, but that's no excuse for such a crappy present. I understand if you viewed it as an insult. Again, my apologies.
With love and regret,
Lauren
I'm so sorry I sent this to you last Christmas. I know it was signed by the author, but that's no excuse for such a crappy present. I understand if you viewed it as an insult. Again, my apologies.
With love and regret,
Lauren
March 7, 2013
This is a gripping thriller that also manages to augment historical perspective. The reader will start to seriously explore how presidents think and what they need as well as the weaknesses and powers of the office.
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