Serpent - Clive Cussler

Serpent is a novel by thriller writer Clive Cussler. For those familiar with the works of Cussler, they normally involve a character called Dirk Pitt, but this book marks the arrival of a new character, Kurt Austin. The book is the first in the NUMA series of books, of which more have since been released since this title was published.

The basic plot is that a group called "The Brotherhood" try to wipe from
the record ...
...between the New and Old Worlds. Kurt Austin, Cussler's new character, is the boss of the National Underwater and Marine Agency (NUMA).

The book begins with the destruction of the SS Andrea Doria and MS Stockholm, before jumping forward in time to new conflicts around the world. Austin saves the life of the archaeologist, Nina Kirov, who then helps in his tasks. An ancient artefact from the pre-Columbian times is on the SS Andrea Doria, ... more

Serpent is a novel by thriller writer Clive Cussler. For those familiar with the works of Cussler, they normally involve a character called Dirk Pitt, but this book marks the arrival of a new character, Kurt Austin. The book is the first in the NUMA series of books, of which more have since been released since this title was published.

The basic plot is that a group called "The Brotherhood" try to wipe from
the record the evidence that they had been contact in the past between the New and Old Worlds. Kurt Austin, Cussler's new character, is the boss of the National Underwater and Marine Agency (NUMA).

The book begins with the destruction of the SS Andrea Doria and MS Stockholm, before jumping forward in time to new conflicts around the world. Austin saves the life of the archaeologist, Nina Kirov, who then helps in his tasks. An ancient artefact from the pre-Columbian times is on the SS Andrea Doria, and there is a battle to see who can get it removed the fastest.

In terms of the readability of the book, I've always found Clive Cussler to be very readable, and have in the past completed his books in one sitting (when I've had the time!). The books are usually fast-paced and although the plots are clearly exaggerated, they still remain believable and interesting. The introduction of a new character in Kurt Austin is interesting, although he really fits into the same character mould as Dirk Pitt, so little seems to have changed in that regard.

I enjoyed reading this book, but the development of the characters did seem to be a bit weak in places. I tend to read quite quickly, and it became apparent on some occasions that I had to reread some sections of the book, suggesting a less than fluid style of writing than that I'm used to from Clive Cussler. This book is though co-written, which might suggest a relatively different style from the other author.

The book encompasses three different time periods, the earlier period back in Columbus days, the time when the Andrea Doria and Stockholm were sunk, and also the modern era. At first it can be difficult to try and fit all these thread lines together, but I was impressed at how Cussler had managed to combine all the different plot elements and develop them, whilst maintaining interest. The plot lines do seem convoluted for some time, which I found frustrating as I went along, but I was satisfied at the end with how everything came together neatly.

The book retails for 6.99 pounds for a paperback copy, but can be purchased from Amazon for 4.89 pounds. If you are happy with a second hand copy, these are available either from eBay or Amazon sellers for around three pounds including postage. It was first released in hardback in 1999, although has been released in numerous paperback versions since.

In summary, I enjoyed this book. Cussler fans should certainly consider reading it, especially if they are interested in archaeology, which this book does feature quite heavily within the plot. It's a shame that Dirk Pitt is missing, but Kurt Austin is a similar character. Although this book doesn't flow as well as some other Cussler works, it's still worth a look, especially given its easy and cheap availability from on-line sellers.

(review also on Dooyoo under same user name) 

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