Dan Brown’s monumental novel, Angels and Demons, is a masterpiece of modern literature.  The novel not only boasts a captivating, twisting play line, but also some of the most amazing uses of the English language.  His uses of imagery and diction are outstanding.  Such a well-rounded novel deserves high praise.

The novel tells of Robert Langdon and his associate Vittoria Vetra, in their race to save the Vatican from the ticking time bomb.  The adventure becomes one of life or death as an assassin threatens the lives of some of the most influential figures present at the Vatican and throws a seemingly never ending array of obstacles in the hero’s path.

The novel, along with its exciting story, presents an array of interesting facts.  The bits of information are not only enlightening, but they also create a sense of reality in the novel.  References to real world events and practices makes the novel almost interactive.  Adding to the feeling of reality in the book, is the fact that every reference to architecture, art and history are true and completely factual, making Angels and Demons all the more interesting.

Adding to the overall experience of reading the novel, is the use of the language.  Imagery is greatly administered by Brown throughout the novel.  “The flashlight procession moved on, the papal silhouettes rose and fell against the walls, stretching and vanishing in a macabre shadowbox dance.”   “The prostrate bodies seemed to emerge from with the tombs, pressing upward against the marble lids as if trying to escape their mortal restraints.”  Use of imagery is present on every page, bringing the reader to the location of the action and giving an almost perfect visual image.

Diction in the novel is very prominent.  Use of more common words is replaced by more specific, descriptive words.  In example, instead of describing the color of the rooftop as Orange, Brown uses a more specific and attractive word, Vermilion.

My personal opinion of the novel is indescribable.  There is no way to convey the exhilarating and suspenseful excitement this novel presents to its readers.  One has to read the book themselves to truly respect Brown’s genius.  Even after one riddle is solved, another shows itself and pushes you to read further.  It is so amazing that it reques use of a none existent word.   “Unputdownable”.

The book is appealing to everyone.  People looking for a thriller will find it here.  People looking for a mystery will find it here.  People looking for science fiction, historical fiction, it is all blended into one book.  You could say:
”One book fits all”.  Individuals can even find themselves relating to the characters in the novel, alluding to their interests in art music or architecture with Robert Langdon, or to their hobbies in science, adventure and exploration with Vittoria Vetra.

The book is a literal page turner.   It is a challenge to resist turning the page.  Suspense is an element used to its full extent in this novel.  I strongly recommend this novel to readers and nonreaders of all ages.