Title: Ice Hunt
Author: James Rollins
First published July 1, 2003
509 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780060521608 (ISBN10: 0060521600)
Rating: 4.06
Overview
Nestled within an ever-shifting ice floe, Ice Station Kraken has been abandoned for over a century. Once a brilliant creation of the brightest minds of the British empire, it was meant to be impenetrable and invisible to the naked eye.
However, a group of explorers has stumbled upon it and what they’ve found inside is beyond comprehension. Something has been moving within the abandoned facility, something that defies all logic and reason.
As a team of scientists, soldiers, and civilians are brought into the deadly heart of Kraken, the most extreme measures will be taken to protect the secrets hidden within its icy walls. The truth that lies within could alter the course of human history forever.
About the Author
Meet James Rollins, bestselling author of thrilling international novels that have been translated into over 40 languages and sold more than 20 million copies. The New York Times aptly describes Rollins as the lovechild of Michael Crichton and Dan Brown, with NPR calling his works “adventurous and enormously engrossing.” Rollins takes readers on a journey through unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets, all while keeping them on the edge of their seats with his stunning suspense.
Prior to his writing career, Rollins spent over a decade as a veterinarian in Sacramento, and still actively volunteers at local shelters. He now resides in the Sierra Nevada Mountains with his two beloved golden retrievers, Echo and Duncan.
When he’s not writing or caring for animals, Rollins can be found scuba diving, spelunking, kayaking, and hiking. His love for travel also inspires his next globe-trotting adventure.
Editoral Review
Ice Hunt by James Rollins is a thrilling adventure novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Rollins is an accomplished author, with numerous bestselling novels under his belt, and this book certainly lives up to his reputation for gripping storytelling that combines elements of science fiction, suspense, and action.
The story is set on an isolated military research station in the Arctic, where a group of scientists is conducting experiments on a mysterious substance that promises to revolutionize the world of energy. But things take a deadly turn when a team of Navy SEALs arrives, tasked with protecting the research station from a ruthless band of mercenaries who are also after the substance.
As tensions rise and the two groups engage in a deadly game of cat and mouse, the true nature of the substance and the secrets it holds are revealed, leading to a breathtaking showdown that will leave readers gasping for breath. Rollins masterfully weaves together a range of themes and motifs that will appeal to a wide variety of readers.
The book is filled with action-packed scenes of gunfights, explosions, and chases, making it a perfect read for fans of action and adventure novels. But the author also imbues the story with a sense of mystery and intrigue, as the true nature of the substance at the heart of the conflict is gradually revealed.
And there are also plenty of elements of science fiction and speculative fiction, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy exploring futuristic concepts and theories. The characters in the book are also expertly crafted, each with their own distinct personalities, motivations, and backstories.
The protagonist, Captain Tucker Wayne, is a complex and intriguing figure, torn between his duty to his country and his own personal demons. And the supporting cast of scientists, Navy SEALs, and mercenaries all add their own unique perspectives and viewpoints to the story, creating a rich tapestry of personalities and motivations.
The world-building in Ice Hunt is also top-notch, with Rollins vividly bringing the Arctic setting to life through his descriptions of the harsh landscape, the freezing temperatures, and the constant threat of danger. And the historical and cultural significance of the story is also worth noting, as it touches on a number of timely issues such as energy security, environmental preservation, and the tensions between national security and scientific research.
Overall, Ice Hunt is a superbly crafted novel that will delight readers of all stripes. Its gripping plot, well-drawn characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout in the crowded field of action-adventure and science fiction novels.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking read. Washington Post gives this book an 8 out of 10.