I have rated this book so low because it feels like it was not written by the authors themselves. The characters of Pendergast and Constance are just a shade inconsistent with previous books. There are several chapters that elaborate on meaningless plot filler (such as why D'Agosta cooks for Hayward) that don't usually populate a Preston and Child book. Also, there is the little matter of some clunky phases (like "blood spurted everywhere") and stilted dialogue that i usually don't see in their writing. Overall, the plot still holds water but the quality of the read itself is subpar to their normal efforts. This was the 2nd in the Pendergast Series that I've read. Since this is the 11th in the series, I'm thinking I've missed quite a lot leading up to this point. This was a fast paced thrilling story, with Pendergast and his brother-in-law Judson Esterhazy go back and forth trying to kill each other. The story is complicated when Esterhazy tells Pendergast that his wife Helen, who was thought to have died in a lion attack a decade before, is still alive. The dynamics between these two characters and the surrounding cast are never dull and the conclusion leaves me wanting for more from this series.
What do You think about Cold Vengence (2011)?
Love Pendergast and friends but how many times do I have to suspend disbelief?
—sammy
Another excellent novel with an incredible lead-in to Pendergast #12!
—Navita
Another good read from Preston / Child....Can't say more than that.
—mommynigabby
