Order of Cotton Malone Book Series

The "Cotton Malone" series, a captivating blend of historical intrigue, thrilling adventure, and complex characters, takes readers on a journey through the shadowy intersections of power, history, and mystery. Conceived by bestselling authors including Steve Berry and featuring contributions from notable figures such as Diana Gabaldon, Random House Audio, James Rollins, and Scott Brick, this series meticulously weaves together the art of storytelling with rich historical context.

At the heart of the series is Cotton Malone, a former operative of a covert U.S. government unit, who now runs a rare bookshop in Copenhagen. His passion for history and adventure is reignited as he becomes embroiled in perilous quests that often reveal hidden truths and secret societies. Each book invites readers to decode ancient artifacts, explore cryptic manuscripts, and pursue legendary treasures, all while racing against time and dangerous adversaries.

With immersive narratives enhanced by Scott Brick’s evocative narration, the "Cotton Malone" series promises heart-pounding suspense and intellectual stimulation. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of thrillers, or simply in search of a compelling escape, this series offers a captivating synthesis of adventure, conspiracy, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Ideal for fans of Dan Brown and Clive Cussler, the "Cotton Malone" series is an exhilarating exploration of the past that resonates in the present.

The "Cotton Malone" series is written by author Steve Berry. It follows the adventures of Cotton Malone, a former operative for the U.S. government who becomes embroiled in various historical mysteries and conspiracies that involve secret societies, ancient artifacts, and significant figures from history. Below are descriptions of each book in the series up to October 2023:

1. Cotton Malone Series Overview: The series blends historical fiction with thriller elements and features Malone traveling around the world, often facing dangerous situations as he uncovers truths hidden in history. Malone is resourceful, knowledgeable about history, and skilled in various forms of combat.

2. "The Templar Legacy" (2006): The first book introduces Cotton Malone as he becomes entangled in a quest for a secret linked to the Knights Templar. As he seeks answers, he must navigate dangerous opponents who will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.

3. "Map of Bones" (2007): In this installment, Malone is drawn into a conspiracy involving the Catholic Church and a shocking revelation that could change the course of history. The action takes Malone across Europe as he uncovers clues that lead to a centuries-old mystery.

4. "Black Order" (2007): Malone discovers a powerful ancient secret society and must race against time to stop them from unleashing a devastating force that could threaten millions. The story weaves together history, science, and drama.

5. "The Venetian Betrayal" (2008): Malone faces a personal crisis when an old friend is murdered. His quest for answers unravels a plot involving a historical figure's hidden legacy, leading him through the intriguing landscapes of Venice.

6. "The Charlemagne Pursuit" (2008): Malone finds himself immersed in a historical investigation surrounding Charlemagne’s legacy and a lost artifact that could redefine Europe’s history. The stakes are high as different factions vie for power.

7. "The Paris Vendetta" (2009): This book pits Malone against a powerful adversary linked to Napoleon Bonaparte. The pursuit of revenge leads to a thrilling chase through Paris’s streets and historical landmarks.

8. "The Emperor's Tomb" (2010): Malone undertakes a mission involving a long-lost emperor's grave in China. He uncovers treasures and secrets, but he soon finds himself in a perilous situation against rival treasure seekers.

9. "The Jefferson Key" (2011): Malone grapples with a plot that connects Thomas Jefferson to a modern-day threat involving piracy and secrets of the past. This book delves into America's history and the implications of Jefferson's legacy.

10. "The King’s Deception" (2013): Malone investigates a mystery surrounding the Tudor period in England, touching on the idea of royal deception and hidden truths about historical figures. His journey reveals shocking discoveries.

11. "The Lincoln Myth" (2014): This installment touches on Abraham Lincoln’s legacy and a historical conspiracy that endangers national security. As Malone uncovers the truth, he faces existential challenges.

12. "The 14th Colony" (2016): Malone is drawn into an international conspiracy involving espionage and the fate of North America, requiring him to delve into a hidden history that could alter the continent's future.

13. "The Bishop's Pawn" (2018): Malone investigates the case of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. The story intertwines civil rights history with a thrilling narrative of conspiracy and intrigue.

14. "The Malta Exchange" (2019): In this chapter, Malone is involved with the secretive Knights of Malta and the intersection of history with modern political crises. The action is driven by the search for historical artifacts.

15. "The Last Kingdom" (2021): This newer addition involves elements of Viking history and treasures hidden across time, with Malone navigating a web of myth and historical truth.

These descriptions summarize the essence of each book but do not cover all the intricacies within the narratives. The series combines detailed historical research with fast-paced storytelling, making it appealing to those who enjoy thrillers with a strong historical background.

Please note that 'Diana Gabaldon', 'Random House Audio', 'James Rollins', and 'Scott Brick' are not associated with the 'Cotton Malone' series; Gabaldon is known for her 'Outlander' series, while Rollins has written the 'Sigma Force' series. Random House Audio is a publisher, and Scott Brick is a prominent audiobook narrator but is not the author of the 'Cotton Malone' series.

The "Cotton Malone" series is primarily written by Steve Berry, not by the authors you've listed together, as Diana Gabaldon and James Rollins are known for their own separate series. The main character in the Cotton Malone series is:

Cotton Malone

• Occupation: A former operative for the U.S. Justice Department, now a rare book dealer.
• Character Traits: Resourceful, intelligent, and adventurous. Malone is portrayed as a scholarly character with a passion for history.
• Background: He has a complex history tied to espionage and the government, which often places him in the midst of historical mysteries and international intrigue.
• Role in Series: Throughout the series, he embarks on various quests that involve historical artifacts and conspiracies, often facing dangerous adversaries.

The series typically features a range of supporting characters, including:

Cassiopeia Vitt

• Occupation: A world-class archaeologist and Malone's ally.
• Character Traits: Intelligent, resourceful, and fiercely independent.
• Role in Series: Often accompanies Malone on his adventures, providing expertise in history and archaeology.

Stewart "Stew" Nightingale

• Occupation: A former mentor and colleague of Malone.
• Character Traits: Cunning and strategic, often providing Malone with valuable information and insights.
• Role in Series: Acts as a supportive figure, helping Malone navigate various threats.

Other Recurring Characters

• The series also includes various antagonists and historical figures that tie into the themes of conspiracy, deception, and historical intrigue. Each book tends to introduce new adversaries linked to the historical mysteries that Malone unravels.

If you're looking for specific characters from works by Diana Gabaldon or James Rollins, their main characters are quite different. Gabaldon is known for her "Outlander" series featuring Claire Randall, while Rollins is known for the "Sigma Force" series featuring Gray Pierce. Each author brings their own unique style and characters to their respective narratives.

The "Cotton Malone" series is primarily authored by Steve Berry, while other names you mentioned like Diana Gabaldon, Random House Audio, James Rollins, and Scott Brick are associated with different works or formats. Here are some interesting facts specifically about the "Cotton Malone" series:

1. Protagonist's Background: Cotton Malone is a former U.S. Justice Department agent who now runs a rare bookstore in Copenhagen. His background in law enforcement and his skills in investigation play crucial roles in the series' plots.

2. Historical Conspiracies: The series is known for intertwining real historical events, artifacts, and figures with fiction. Berry often incorporates actual historical mysteries and conspiracies into the plot, blending fact with fiction.

3. Recurring Characters: Alongside Malone, the series features a cast of recurring characters, including his mentor, Cassiopeia Vitt, and his occasional antagonist, the villainous members of various secret societies.

4. Numerous Installments: As of October 2023, there are over fifteen books in the series, with titles such as "The Templar Legacy," "The Alexandria Link," and "The 14th Colony," each taking readers on a thrilling adventure across various global settings.

5. Genre Blending: The series effectively mixes elements of thriller, adventure, and historical fiction, appealing to a wide range of readers, from mystery enthusiasts to history buffs.

6. Impact on the Genre: Steve Berry is recognized as one of the leading authors in the genre of historical thrillers. His work, including the Cotton Malone series, has influenced many other writers in the field.

7. Adaptations and Media: The series has generated interest in adaptations for film and television, though none have been finalized as of the last updates. The potential for visual storytelling speaks to the cinematic quality of Berry's writing.

8. Audiobooks: Random House Audio has produced audiobooks for the series, narrated by talented voice actors such as Scott Brick, enhancing accessibility and bringing the thrilling narratives to life for listeners.

Though Diana Gabaldon and James Rollins are prominent figures in the literary world, their works are distinct from Berry's "Cotton Malone" series. Gabaldon is best known for the "Outlander" series, and Rollins writes the "Sigma Force" series, which similarly explores historical mysteries.