Black Order

Black Order cover
Good Books rating 3.67
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Technical
  • ID: 9283
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781409105619
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2008-09-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Black Order by James Rollins is a gripping thriller that follows Commander Gray Pierce as he investigates a series of arson and murder cases leading to a plot involving a Bible once owned by Charles Darwin. The mystery takes Pierce across four continents, uncovering a dark conspiracy that dates back to Nazi Germany and horrific experiments conducted in a secret laboratory in Poland. Meanwhile, a young American doctor, Lisa Cummings, finds herself in the crosshairs of an assassin while investigating atrocities at a remote monastery in Nepal. As the story unfolds, Pierce must race against time to save both Lisa and his own director, Painter Crowe, who is undercover and showing signs of a baffling malady affecting the monks. The novel is praised for its fast-paced action, intricate plot, and historical intrigue, making it a standout in the Sigma Force series./n/nThe book is not just a thrilling adventure but also delves into historical and scientific mysteries, blending fact and fiction seamlessly. Rollins' meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring the characters and settings to life, creating an immersive experience for readers. The novel's exploration of themes such as the ethics of scientific experimentation and the consequences of historical atrocities adds depth to the action-packed narrative. Black Order is a testament to Rollins' ability to craft compelling stories that entertain and educate, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Reviews
TracyReaderDad · 2015-10-20
interesting 3.50

An interesting thriller with impressive science and technology, though not the author's best work. The action is fast-paced and engaging.

This reviewer enjoyed the science and technology aspects of Black Order, finding them particularly impressive. The action sequences are fast-paced and keep the story moving. However, they felt that this book isn't the author's strongest work. It's still a solid thriller that fans of the genre will appreciate, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of some of Rollins' other novels.


Quick quotes

    “Black Order” is an interesting thriller although not James Rollins's best.

    I loved the science and technology and the action is fast and ...

    Customers find this book to be a brilliant read with complex scientific theories and well-researched content.

About Writing · 2010-07-20
satisfying 3.50

A serviceable book for those looking to escape reality with an above-average thriller that has some intellectual depth.

This reviewer found Black Order to be a good escape, offering an above-average thriller experience. The book has some intellectual depth, making it more than just a typical action-packed story. It's a solid choice for readers looking to dive into a well-crafted adventure with some brains behind it. While it's not groundbreaking, it's a satisfying read that will keep you engaged.


Quick quotes

    Black Order is still a serviceable book for those looking to escape reality with an above-average thriller that has some brains to go along with it.

    Just what I expected: a large-scale, globe-hopping adventure with sprawling locals, numerous characters (both good & evil) and cutting-edge science paired with ...

    Overall, I'd give it a 7.5 out of 10.

Errant Dreams · 2007-07-05
engaging 4.00

The characters are beautifully drawn and the plot is fascinating, though some language choices could be improved. The complexity is well-balanced without unnecessary confusion.

This reviewer found the characters in Black Order to be exceptionally well-developed, adding depth to the story. The plot is engaging and intriguing, with a good mix of complexity that doesn't overwhelm. However, they noted some language choices that could have been refined. Overall, it's a compelling read with a good balance of action and intellectual stimulation.


Quick quotes

    Beautifully-drawn characters; fascinating plot; complexity without unnecessary confusion.

    I could live without the word ...

    Rollins keeps up a good pace, and the suspense builds as Crowe struggles against a deadly condition.

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