The book of lies - Brad Meltzer

The story is split between two timelines: one in the present day and one during the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the discovery of an ancient book that holds dangerous secrets—secrets with the potential to change the course of history.

In the present day, Caleb Carr, a reclusive comic book store owner, becomes unexpectedly involved in a dangerous conspiracy after his father is murdered. Caleb inherits an enigmatic letter from his father, which leads him on a journey to uncover the truth about an ancient text. The letter hints at a connection between the famous historical figure Harry Houdini, the legendary magician and escape artist, and the mysterious book, which contains a powerful secret.

In the second timeline, the novel delves into the life of Harry Houdini himself. The historical story reveals Houdini's obsession with uncovering the truth about his family, his spiritualism, and his desperate need to know whether or not death could be escaped. As Houdini uncovers a series of personal and professional lies, he becomes entangled in a mystery that eventually links him to the fateful book.

The core of The Book of Lies lies in the search for this elusive book—a book that has been passed down through history, hidden for centuries, with secrets that could expose powerful figures and challenge the world as we know it. As Caleb and a group of unlikely allies get closer to finding it, they realize that the stakes are higher than they ever imagined. With powerful enemies determined to keep the book's secrets buried, the pursuit of truth becomes a dangerous and thrilling game.