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Review #6875 - Dated: 29th of October, 2012
Author: Tucker |
Since my first encounter with Cussler's work, via [link^727^the movie adaptation of "Sahara"^link], I have enjoyed each of the various franchises fairly equally. You have the Dirk Pitt Adventures, the Kurt Austin Adventures, the Isaac Bell novels, the NUMA Files, the Oregon Files, and this one, the Fargos. A husband/wife tag-team that would put James Bond in an awkward position, the antics this couple get up to are pretty amazing, yet feel so very plausible - a hallmark of Cussler's works along with a Hitchcockesque cameo in each book, always there to impart some vital piece of information, guidance or assistance yet never really 'being there' at all.
Taking on a legend like Attila the Hun was a bold move for Cussler. It's one thing to write fiction based on fiction, but it's another thing to try and make fiction based on history - and make it read like fact - but once again Cussler makes magic in collaboration with Thomas Perry. Previous Fargo Adventures have been co-authored with Grant Blackwood so it was interesting to see the new feel Perry brought in. More drama, more intrigue and a lot more unravelling of cryptic history, where a total of 6 puzzles had to be investigated and solved before the adventure was complete. Only time will tell if this is Perry's influence, or just a necessary part of this particular plot.
Overall, another stunning addition to the Cussler Collective. Great characters that grow in depth and solidity as more of their history is revealed and new bonds forged while old bonds are renewed. It was great to see the team bringing a major character into their inner circle for the duration and sake of this adventure, but also seeing new faces popping up that may, I feel, return in later stories based on their interaction with the Fargos. If you are looking for something that will not only entertain but also provoke thought, this is a great title to consider. Not my favourite of all Cussler titles, but certainly my favourite Fargo adventure thus far.
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