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The Da Vinci Code
Dan Brown

The Da Vinci Code

Quick Answer

Read "The Da Vinci Code" as the 2nd book in the Robert Langdon sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Angels & Demons" (Book 1)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 2nd installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2004467 ppWikidataSource
The Da Vinci Code is a 2003 mystery thriller novel by Dan Brown. It is Brown's second novel to include the character Robert Langdon: the first was his 2000 novel Angels & Demons. The Da Vinci Code follows "symbologist" Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu after a murder in the Louvre Museum in Paris causes them to become involved in a battle between the Priory of Sion and Opus Dei over the possibility of Jesus Christ and Mary Magdalene having had a child together. ---------- See also: [The Da Vinci Code [1/2]](https://openlibrary.org/works/OL24164822W) [The Da Vinci Code [2/2]](https://openlibrary.org/works/OL24210437W) Contained in: [Angels & Demons / The Da Vinci Code](https://openlibrary.org/works/OL15290520W)
Next Recommended Book

The Lost Symbol

Book #3 of 6 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Robert Langdon conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading The Da Vinci Code?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read The Da Vinci Code before Angels & Demons?

No. We recommend reading Angels & Demons first. The Da Vinci Code is the 2th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The Da Vinci Code required reading for the Robert Langdon?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after The Da Vinci Code in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The Da Vinci Code is The Lost Symbol (Book #3).