20 Secret Societies Best Books to Read

Are you fascinated by the mysterious world of secret societies? Whether you’re a history buff, a conspiracy theorist, or just love a good thriller, there’s something undeniably intriguing about the clandestine operations of these enigmatic organizations. If you’re looking for a thrilling read that delves into the hidden world of secret societies, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about secret societies that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From historical accounts to fictional thrillers, these secret societies books are sure to captivate and enthrall you with their tales of mystery, power, and intrigue.

20 Best Secret Societies Books

The Lost Symbol

by Dan Brown

The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown is a gripping thriller that delves into the world of ancient mysteries and hidden knowledge. Set in Washington D.C., the story follows renowned symbologist Robert Langdon as he is summoned to the Capitol to unravel a cryptic puzzle left by a mysterious figure. As Langdon races against time to solve the enigmatic clues, he uncovers a web of secrets that lead him deep into the heart of the nation’s capital. The novel is a fascinating exploration of the symbology, architecture, and history of Washington, D.C., as well as a thought-provoking look at the power of secret societies and their influence on society.

The Da Vinci Code

by Dan Brown

The Da Vinci Code is a captivating thriller that delves into the world of secret societies, religious history, and hidden symbols. Written by Dan Brown, this international bestseller follows Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a complex web of clues surrounding the murder of a curator at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Langdon teams up with French cryptologist Sophie Neveu to decipher codes left by the curator, which lead them on a thrilling chase across Europe. As they uncover shocking secrets about the Catholic Church, the duo find themselves caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a secretive and powerful organization.

Brown’s masterful storytelling and skillful blending of historical facts with fiction make The Da Vinci Code a compelling read for anyone interested in a book about secret societies, religious conspiracies, and ancient mysteries. With its fast-paced plot and thought-provoking themes, this secret societies book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History by Donna Tartt is a captivating book about secret societies that follows a group of eccentric and enigmatic classics students at a prestigious Vermont college. When they become entangled in a dark and scandalous murder, the boundaries between loyalty and betrayal, truth and deception, become increasingly blurred.

Tartt’s masterful storytelling weaves a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of friendship, obsession, and the consequences of indulging in forbidden knowledge. The novel’s atmospheric setting and richly developed characters draw readers into a world of privilege, intellectual fervor, and moral ambiguity.

As the characters grapple with the consequences of their actions, The Secret History challenges readers to contemplate the seductive allure of power and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their own secrets. This book on secret societies is a gripping exploration of human nature and the allure of the unknown, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and literary fiction alike.

Foucault’s Pendulum

by Umberto Eco

Foucault’s Pendulum is a captivating novel by Umberto Eco that delves into the world of secret societies. The story follows three editors who work for a small publishing house in Milan and become obsessed with the idea of a grand conspiracy involving the Knights Templar, the Rosicrucians, and other esoteric orders. As they create a fictional plan that encompasses all these secret societies, they soon find themselves entangled in a web of mystery and danger.

Umberto Eco’s intricate storytelling and rich historical references make Foucault’s Pendulum a fascinating exploration of the allure and power of secret societies. The novel takes readers on a journey through ancient legends, occult rituals, and hidden knowledge, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. With its complex narrative and thought-provoking themes, this book about secret societies is a compelling read for those intrigued by the enigmatic world of covert organizations and their enigmatic influence on history and society.

The Club Dumas

by Arturo Pérez-Reverte

The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte is a captivating mystery novel that delves into the world of rare books, enigmatic manuscripts, and dark secrets. Set in the world of antiquarian books, the story follows Lucas Corso, a book detective and rare book expert, as he is hired to authenticate a rare manuscript that may be linked to the devil himself.

As Corso delves deeper into his investigation, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, murder, and ancient cults. The novel is a thrilling blend of mystery, adventure, and literary intrigue, with a gripping plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

This book on secret societies is filled with richly developed characters, intricate puzzles, and a labyrinthine plot that explores the dark underbelly of the rare book world. Pérez-Reverte’s masterful storytelling and meticulous attention to detail make The Club Dumas a must-read for anyone fascinated by the arcane world of rare books and secret societies.

The Rule of Four

by Ian Caldwell and Dustin Thomason

The Rule of Four is a captivating novel that delves into the world of clandestine organizations and hidden knowledge. Set in the hallowed halls of Princeton University, the story follows a group of students as they unravel the mysteries of a Renaissance text known as the Hypnerotomachia Poliphili. This book, shrouded in secrecy and intrigue, holds the key to an ancient puzzle that has baffled scholars for centuries.

As the friends delve deeper into the enigmatic text, they uncover a web of secrets, codes, and cryptic messages that lead them on a thrilling journey through history and academia. The Rule of Four is a gripping blend of historical mystery, literary intrigue, and academic suspense, making it a must-read for anyone fascinated by the world of secret societies and hidden knowledge.

The Eight

by Katherine Neville

The Eight by Katherine Neville is a thrilling adventure novel that unravels the mystery of a powerful and ancient chess set. Set in two timelines, the story follows two women, Mireille and Catherine, as they seek to uncover the secrets of the chess set and its connection to a legendary secret society. As they delve deeper into the history of the chess set, they become embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage, puzzles, and international intrigue.

This book is a captivating blend of historical fiction, mystery, and adventure, with a dash of romance and a touch of the supernatural. The Eight takes readers on a whirlwind journey across continents and centuries, weaving together the stories of its characters in an intricate and captivating tapestry. With its richly developed characters, intricate plot, and masterful storytelling, The Eight is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling tale of hidden secrets, ancient mysteries, and the power struggles of secret societies.

The Name of the Rose

by Umberto Eco

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is a captivating historical fiction novel that delves into the world of medieval secret societies. Set in an Italian monastery in the 14th century, the story follows the Franciscan friar William of Baskerville and his young novice, Adso of Melk, as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths within the monastery walls. As they unravel the intricate web of secrets and hidden agendas, they become embroiled in a complex and dangerous game of power, politics, and religious intrigue.

With its richly detailed historical setting and intricate plot, The Name of the Rose is a compelling exploration of the themes of knowledge, power, and the nature of truth. The novel offers a thought-provoking look into the inner workings of secret societies and the lengths to which they will go to protect their hidden knowledge. Eco’s masterful storytelling and vivid characters make this book a must-read for anyone fascinated by the enigmatic world of clandestine organizations and the mysteries they guard.

The Thirteenth Tale

by Diane Setterfield

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield is a captivating novel that delves into the world of hidden truths and family secrets. This gripping tale follows Margaret Lea, a bibliophile and biographer, who is approached by the enigmatic and reclusive author, Vida Winter, to write her biography. As Margaret delves into Vida’s past, she uncovers a web of dark and mysterious secrets that have haunted the author for decades. The novel is filled with twists and turns, as Margaret unravels the truth behind Vida’s troubled family history and the elusive thirteenth tale that has remained a secret for years.

Setterfield’s masterful storytelling and richly detailed characters draw readers into a world of gothic intrigue and suspense. The Thirteenth Tale is a book on secret societies that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, with its exploration of hidden conspiracies and clandestine organizations. This haunting and atmospheric novel is perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery and a deep dive into the world of secret societies.

The Historian

by Elizabeth Kostova

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova is a captivating novel that delves into the mysterious world of secret societies and ancient legends. The story follows a young woman who discovers an old book in her father’s library, which leads her on a quest to uncover the truth about Dracula and the Order of the Dragon. As she delves deeper into the secrets of the past, she becomes entangled in a web of danger and intrigue, spanning centuries and continents.

This gripping tale weaves together history, folklore, and suspense, taking readers on a thrilling journey through the shadowy world of clandestine organizations and hidden knowledge. Kostova’s rich prose and meticulous research bring to life the enigmatic world of secret societies, captivating readers with its blend of historical fact and compelling fiction. The Historian is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the mysteries of the past and the cryptic machinations of secret societies.

The Shadow of the Wind

by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the streets of post-war Barcelona. Set in the 1940s, the story follows a young boy named Daniel who discovers a mysterious book in the Cemetery of Forgotten Books, a secret library that holds forgotten and hidden literary treasures. As Daniel delves into the enigmatic novel, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and forbidden love.

This book is a gripping tale of mystery, romance, and betrayal, with elements of suspense and intrigue that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The novel explores the power of literature and the impact of the past on the present, while also delving into themes of loyalty, friendship, and the search for truth.

With its richly atmospheric setting and complex characters, The Shadow of the Wind is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a captivating story that unravels the secrets of a hidden world.

The Templar Legacy

by Steve Berry

The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry is a thrilling adventure novel that delves into the mysterious world of ancient secret societies. The story follows ex-U.S. Justice Department agent, Cotton Malone, as he gets entangled in a dangerous quest to uncover the lost treasure of the Knights Templar. As he delves deeper into the enigmatic history of the Templars, Malone discovers a web of conspiracy, betrayal, and long-buried secrets that have the power to shake the foundations of modern society. This gripping tale takes readers on a journey through the hidden chambers of history, filled with cryptic codes, ancient artifacts, and shadowy organizations vying for power.

With its blend of historical intrigue and heart-pounding action, The Templar Legacy is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the clandestine world of secret societies. Berry’s skillful storytelling and meticulous research bring to life a thrilling narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

The Atlantis Code

by Charles Brokaw

The Atlantis Code by Charles Brokaw is a thrilling adventure novel that delves into the mysterious world of secret societies. The story follows linguistics expert Thomas Lourds as he is recruited to decipher an ancient code that could lead to the lost city of Atlantis. As Lourds travels across the globe, he finds himself entangled in a web of conspiracy, danger, and intrigue, as he uncovers the secrets of a powerful and enigmatic society that has been guarding the truth about Atlantis for centuries.

This gripping tale is filled with action, suspense, and historical intrigue, making it a perfect read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery and a dash of ancient mythology. With its fast-paced plot and well-researched historical details, The Atlantis Code is a must-read for fans of adventure and secret societies books.

The Last Templar

by Raymond Khoury

The Last Templar by Raymond Khoury is a thrilling adventure that delves into the mysterious world of secret societies. Set in both the present day and the 13th century, the novel follows a brave archaeologist and an FBI agent as they uncover a long-lost secret that could change the course of history. As they unravel the clues left behind by the Templars, they find themselves entangled in a web of conspiracy, betrayal, and danger.

This fast-paced, action-packed novel is perfect for fans of historical mysteries and conspiracy thrillers. With its intricate plot and well-researched historical details, The Last Templar will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. If you’re looking for a gripping book about secret societies, ancient mysteries, and high-stakes adventure, look no further than The Last Templar. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery and a thrilling ride through the hidden world of secret societies.

The Illuminatus! Trilogy

by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson

The Illuminatus! Trilogy is a mind-bending, genre-defying series that delves into the world of secret societies. Written by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson, this epic tale spans three books and takes readers on a wild ride through conspiracy theories, government plots, and mind-bending mysteries. The trilogy weaves together elements of science fiction, satire, and occultism, creating a surreal and thought-provoking narrative that challenges the reader’s perceptions of reality.

At the heart of the story is the search for the truth behind the Illuminati, a secret society rumored to have immense power and influence over world events. As the characters uncover layers of deception and hidden agendas, they are drawn into a web of intrigue that blurs the lines between fact and fiction.

With its complex plot, eccentric characters, and unconventional storytelling, The Illuminatus! Trilogy is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the enigmatic world of secret societies and the mysteries that surround them.

The Brotherhood of the Rose

by David Morrell

The Brotherhood of the Rose is an exhilarating thriller that delves into the world of covert operations and ancient conspiracies. David Morrell weaves a gripping tale of two orphans, Chris and Saul, who are raised by a mysterious figure known as Eliot. As they grow older, they become skilled in the art of espionage and assassination, only to find themselves targeted by a powerful secret society with a deadly agenda.

This book on secret societies is a heart-pounding adventure that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of action and intrigue. With its fast-paced plot and intricate characters, Morrell keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Chris and Saul navigate a world of deceit and danger, uncovering long-buried secrets along the way.

The Brotherhood of the Rose is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling secret societies book that combines high-stakes espionage with ancient mysteries.

The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball

by Risa Green

The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball by Risa Green is a captivating and mysterious book about secret societies. The story follows 13-year-old Nell, who discovers a hidden world of magic and intrigue when she stumbles upon the Pink Crystal Ball secret society. As she delves deeper into the society’s secrets, Nell uncovers a web of ancient traditions, mystical powers, and long-held grudges. With the help of her new friends, Nell must navigate the dangerous and enchanting world of the secret society while also dealing with the challenges of being a teenager.

This thrilling and enchanting novel is a perfect blend of mystery, adventure, and friendship, making it an irresistible read for anyone intrigued by the world of secret societies. Risa Green’s expert storytelling and vivid imagination bring the Pink Crystal Ball secret society to life, captivating readers from the very first page. If you’re looking for a book about secret societies that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball is the perfect choice.

The Secret Society of Demolition Writers

by Marc Parent

The Secret Society of Demolition Writers by Marc Parent is a captivating collection of short stories crafted by a group of anonymous authors. This unique and mysterious book is a compelling exploration of the power of words and the impact of storytelling. Each story is infused with a sense of urgency and secrecy, drawing the reader into a world of intrigue and suspense.

As the name suggests, this book is not just a collection of stories, but a peek into a clandestine group of writers who have come together to create a literary masterpiece. The authors, shrouded in anonymity, have each contributed their own tale, creating a diverse and compelling tapestry of narratives. The Secret Society of Demolition Writers is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will leave readers pondering the mysteries of storytelling and the hidden power of words.

If you’re looking for a captivating book about secret societies, this collection of stories is sure to captivate and intrigue.

Angels & Demons

by Dan Brown

Angels & Demons by Dan Brown is a thrilling novel that delves into the world of clandestine organizations and ancient mysteries. This captivating book on secret societies follows Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon as he races against time to unravel a sinister plot that could threaten the Vatican and the world itself.

As Langdon uncovers clues and deciphers cryptic messages, he finds himself embroiled in a centuries-old conflict between the Illuminati and the Catholic Church, forcing him to confront the age-old battle between science and religion. With its fast-paced action, intricate puzzles, and gripping suspense, this secret societies book takes readers on a heart-pounding journey through the hidden corridors of power and the dark heart of Rome.

Angels & Demons is a masterfully crafted novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, questioning everything they thought they knew about history, art, and the shadowy world of secret societies.

The Historical Illuminatus Chronicles

by Robert Anton Wilson

The Historical Illuminatus Chronicles by Robert Anton Wilson is a captivating trilogy that delves into the world of clandestine organizations and secret societies. Set in the 18th century, the series follows the life of Sigismundo Celine, a young Italian nobleman who becomes entangled in the web of intrigue surrounding the infamous Illuminati. As he navigates through the tumultuous political and religious landscape of Europe, Celine encounters a myriad of enigmatic characters and uncovers the hidden truths behind the secretive organizations that wield immense power behind the scenes.

Wilson’s masterful storytelling weaves together elements of historical fiction, conspiracy theories, and esoteric knowledge, creating a spellbinding narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The trilogy offers a thought-provoking exploration of the machinations of power and the blurred lines between reality and myth, making it a must-read for anyone intrigued by the enigmatic world of secret societies.

Final Thoughts on Best Secret Societies Books

Exploring the world of Secret Societies through literature can be a fascinating journey, and the 20 best books about secret societies listed in this article offer a diverse and intriguing selection for readers to delve into. Whether you’re interested in historical accounts, fictional stories, or conspiracy theories, these books provide captivating insights into the enigmatic and clandestine world of secret societies. So, pick up a book, uncover the mysteries, and embark on a thrilling literary adventure!

Which book about Secret Societies is best?

The best book on Secret Societies can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown,
  2. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown,
  3. The Secret History by Donna Tartt.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Secret Societies?

For those looking to learn about Secret Societies, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown,
  2. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown,
  3. The Secret History by Donna Tartt,
  4. Foucault’s Pendulum by Umberto Eco,
  5. The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte,
  6. The Rule of Four by Ian Caldwell and Dustin Thomason,
  7. The Eight by Katherine Neville,
  8. The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco,
  9. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield,
  10. The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

These books offer a range of perspectives on Secret Societies, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Secret Societies?

The best books about Secret Societies are:

  • The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown,
  • The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown,
  • The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón,
  • The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry,
  • The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco,
  • The Rule of Four by Ian Caldwell and Dustin Thomason.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Secret Societies are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Secret Societies books of all time?

Choosing the best Secret Societies books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown,
  • The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown,
  • The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte,
  • The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco,
  • and The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Secret Societies and continues to be influential today.