Some books simply arrive in your life. Others walk in,
take a seat, and never leave. For me, Dan Brown belongs to the second
category. Right now, I’m waiting for The Secret of Secrets, Dan Brown’s
latest Robert Langdon novel, which I ordered way back in March. It’s due to
arrive in September, and the wait feels like part of the joy.
My relationship with Dan Brown’s books began unexpectedly in
2007, during my college internship at a leading news channel in Kerala. One
day, I borrowed a Malayalam copy of The Da Vinci Code from one of my
seniors, Unni R. — now known to Malayalees as a Screen Writer. At that time,
the book was surrounded by controversy and banned in certain countries for
allegedly questioning the Catholic Church’s beliefs.
As someone who grew up Catholic, spending 12 years in
Catechism classes, I was curious. Reading it was like reconnecting with my
Church history lessons — a mix of familiarity and discovery. While I understood
why some found it provocative, I saw it for what it was: a blend of creativity,
research, and storytelling. My faith was never shaken; if anything, I
appreciated how the book sparked questions and curiosity.
After my internship, I returned to Chennai, but Dan Brown
had already taken hold of my imagination. I started searching for his earlier
books. That is when Angels & Demons stole my heart, yes, even more than The
Da Vinci Code. It was an incredible journey through Rome’s churches,
sculptures, and secrets, blending history, art, and mystery in a way that felt
like traveling without leaving my chair.
By the time I started working, Dan Brown had become more
than just an author I liked — he was a habit. I set aside a small sum each
month specifically for buying books. Often, I’d visit Landmark with friends
like Priyanka or Ganesh. Sometimes, they’d gift me books for my birthday — and
without hesitation, I’d ask for a Dan Brown title.
Eventually, I began pre-ordering almost all his releases
from indiaplaza.in (I’m not even sure if it exists anymore!). Each arrival felt
like opening a treasure chest. Over the years, I’ve devoured The Lost Symbol
(which introduced me to the world of Freemasons), Inferno (a thrilling
exploration of Dante’s Divine Comedy), and Origin (which blended
science, art, and philosophy beautifully).
One of the things I love most about Dan Brown’s writing is
how it transports me to European cities — Venice, Florence, Paris, and more —
with vivid descriptions of their art, architecture, and history. It’s like
taking a guided cultural tour while also solving a nail-biting mystery. His
stories have taught me so much about religious history, symbolism, and world
heritage sites.
And of course, now I’m waiting for The Secret of Secrets
— and this time, it’s been a six-month wait. I’m sure it will be another
wonderful adventure for me. I’ve completely fallen in love with Robert Langdon,
the brilliant Harvard symbologist who anchors so many of these stories. I’ve
watched almost all the movies based on Dan Brown’s novels, and I adore Tom
Hanks as Langdon.
Dan Brown’s books fill me with curiosity and joy. I love the
way each story begins with a mystery that slowly unravels, pulling me deeper
into a world of codes, symbols, and secrets. The Mickey Mouse watch, the habit
of breaking codes, the blend of history and science — they make me want to
learn code-breaking myself. One day, I hope I get to meet Dan Brown in person
and take a photograph with him.
So yes — this might read like a fan letter. And maybe it is.
Thank you, Dan Brown, for the worlds you’ve built, the
mysteries you’ve given us, and the joy you’ve placed on my bookshelf — and in
my heart.
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