OK, I'd definitely agree this was a page-turner, but it was by no means the best "thriller" I've read (not sure right now where that prize would go). I'd say the writing was fine, not bad, not great, probably right about a C+ (for just a twinge above "average").

As far as the topic goes, this was all about luck. The publishing of this book came at the most fortuitous possible time, when for whatever reason the country was really ready to read it. At a different time, it might just as easily have been shouted down by the Pat Robertsons and Jerry Falwells of the world (which would have in turn created its own notoriety and high book sales).

I also read two other of his books, Angels & Demons and Digital Fortress. I thought these exposed him as relying completely on formula. My final assessment is that one was a fun read, but once you've read one, you've read them all.

On the whole "alternate history of Jesus" etc, etc, I thought the Hiram Key was interesting, though it should be taken with a grain of salt.

I think that there is a massive misconception regarding the importance of historical fiction and its function. Surely we do not expect it to "teach" us anything right. However, it does open our eyes to certain historical facts and ways we otherwise would not think of. In many cases these are everyday issues we are well aware of but pay no attention to.