Clive Cussler: Two Novels : Flood Tide; Cyclops

Rating:
Summary: 5-Stars for Cyclops...4 1/2 for Flood Tide
Review: I was momentarily surprised when I saw this book at my local bookstore because I thought for a split second that I was looking at a brand new Cussler novel...but the wind quickly left my sails as I realized that I had already purchased and read both of these books and enjoyed them. But I LOVE novels that combine more than one book, and I couldn't help myself, and I picked it up right then and there and proceeded to re-read these incredible yarns.

I'll start with 'Cyclops'. A much earlier Dirk Pitt story than 'Flood Tide' and in MY opinion, ranks as one of Cussler's greatest adventures. Taking the reader from the depths of the sea to Communist Cuba, to the very surface of the moon, I can't think of ANY yarn that takes you on such a tremendous journey as this one. Mixing adventure with a small dose of near-future science fiction, Cussler never once lets up on the entertaining action. The Russians attempt to hijack the space shuttle...the President is informed of a private American moon colony, one that has been there for YEARS, and was NOT funded by NASA...and the race to collect the secrets learned from this amazing feat is on. Who will win? As they say, getting there is half the fun, especially when Dirk Pitt is involved. Do yourself a GIGANTIC favor and read 'Cyclops' and you will be forever greatful for the hours of pure escapism entertainment.

'Flood Tide' is a more recent Pitt adventure, and comes on the heels of a tragedy that Dirk experiences in 'Shock Wave'. I recommend reading 'Shock Wave' first just so you'll know WHY Dirk is in the frame of mind he starts out with in 'Flood Tide'. With that out of the way, Dirk, ever the magnet for situations that require his expertise otherwise earth-shaking consequences result, swims right into yet another hornets nest of trouble. This time in the Pacific Northwest when he helps an Asian woman escape from forced slavery, and returns to assist the others who were not as lucky. This unlocks a conspiracy which finds Dirk & Company in the deep South helping avert a disaster which could ignite the deaths of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of American lives. While exciting and well-written, I place 'Flood Tide' near the bottom of the Dirk Pitt adventures I have read (which are all of them at last count). Just keep in mind that Cussler's least entertaining books are more fun than most other writers best material. Either way, do NOT pass up an opportunity to read about Dirk Pitt...easily one of the greatest characters in adventure fiction since the invention of the written language.