Review of "Cash & Colcord: Convergence" by Douglas Preston & Aletheia Preston
As an avid reader of thrillers and mysteries, I was immediately drawn to "Cash & Colcord: Convergence" after its release was announced. Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, "Extinction," I had high hopes for this sequel. The combination of mystery, crime, and a hint of the paranormal, set against the intriguing backdrop of the Colorado wilderness, promised an exhilarating read.
The book begins with a shocking scene: a reclusive man found gruesomely murdered, the kind of opener that immediately pulls you in. CBI Agent Frankie Cash and Eagle County Sheriff Jim Colcord return, and their partnership is as dynamic as ever. The writing captures the tension and urgency of their investigation, embroiled in bizarre killings and a web of conspiracy revolving around a secret society.
One aspect that impressed me was the authors’ ability to weave together various plot threads, including the inexplicably defaced holy relic and the gruesome fate of a controversial exobiologist. The intricacies of the plot kept me guessing, and just when I thought I had everything figured out, a new twist would arise. The sense of dread coupled with the thrill of the chase felt fresh and compelling.
However, I did encounter a couple of drawbacks during my reading experience. Some readers pointed out that the pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the middle. While I agree this was true at points, I didn’t find it to be too distracting. The depth in character development and world-building compensates for a slower burn.
Another concern raised by others was the complexity of the overarching themes related to the resurrected Neanderthals. While I found the premise fascinating, I can understand how it might alienate readers looking for a straightforward mystery. For me, the blend of science fiction and crime thriller was what elevated the narrative, but I can see how someone who prefers more conventional storytelling may feel differently.
The official description notes that the investigation uncovers "a trail of bizarre killings, baffling money transfers, and a fanatical secret society." This accurately reflects the plot, which was as riveting as I’d hoped. The interplay between the protagonists adds both humor and tension, and their character arcs are well-crafted, especially as they delve deeper into the darkest aspects of human nature and society at large.
In terms of writing style, Preston and Preston masterfully engage the reader’s imagination through vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue. The sparseness of the prose also contributes to a rapid pace that enhances the suspense. Yet, it’s the emotional underpinning of the characters’ experiences that lingers, providing a deeper meaning to the action-packed narrative.
Overall, I would rate "Cash & Colcord: Convergence" a solid 4 out of 5 stars. The mix of thrilling plotlines and rich character dynamics made for a satisfying read, despite its occasional pacing issues. If you enjoy novels that combine elements of mystery with a touch of the paranormal and ethical inquiry, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It’s a gripping continuation of the series that had me hooked from the first page to the last, and I am already anticipating what the Preston duo will craft next!