Clive Cussler Ghost Soldier: The Oregon Files, Book 18 Cover

Clive Cussler Ghost Soldier Review

Clive Cussler delivers non-stop action with thrilling plot twists and adventurous characters. While the heroes can be a bit too perfect, the excitement makes up for it.
  • Plot Twists
  • Character Development
  • Action and Excitement
  • Overall Enjoyment
4/5Overall Score

Review of Clive Cussler's thrilling novel. Highlights non-stop action, exciting characters, and plot twists. Pros and cons discussed.

Specs
  • Year released: 1973
  • Author: Clive Cussler
  • Genre: Adventure, Thriller
  • Pages: 346
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Publisher: Viking Press
  • ISBN: 978-0425185712
  • Main Character: Dirk Pitt
  • Setting: Underwater, Historical Sites
Pros
  • Exciting adventure
  • Fast-paced action
  • Interesting characters
  • Great plot twists
Cons
  • Predictable plots
  • Over-the-top action scenes
  • Shallow character development
Disclaimer: Buying from our links may result in us earning enough for a new reading adventure, but not enough to quit our day jobs as amateur literary afficinados.

Get ready folks, because today we’re talking about Clive Cussler! This review will cover thrilling plot twists, exciting characters, and those non-stop action scenes that keep you glued to the book. Yes, I’ve read it, and yes, I have opinions – both good and, well, not so good. So buckle up, it’s gonna be a fun ride!

In a nutshell

Clive Cussler delivers another heart-pounding adventure in his latest novel. A master of the action thriller genre, Cussler packs this book with daring escapades, mysterious historical artifacts, and relentless bad guys. The story follows the larger-than-life hero who races against time to save the day.

Themes of courage, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between good and evil weave through the narrative. Set against exotic backdrops and high-stakes situations, the book promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats without demanding too much literary brainpower.

Plot Twists and Excitement in Clive Cussler’s Novels

Oh boy, if there’s one thing Clive Cussler knows how to do, it’s twist a plot till your head spins! I remember the first time I picked up a Cussler novel; I was on a long train ride, and boy, did I miss my stop. His books have more twists than a bag of pretzels. You start with one story, think you have it all figured out, and bam – plot twist!

Take “Sahara” for example. One moment you’re with Dirk Pitt on a routine mission, and the next, you’re knee-deep in a desert mystery involving lost battleships. Seriously, I had to check the cover to make sure I was still reading the same book. Cussler’s ability to keep you guessing is nothing short of masterful. It’s like he’s a magician pulling rabbits out of a hat – except the rabbits are submarines and the hat is the Sahara desert.

But it’s not just the twists that make his books exciting. It’s the pacing. Cussler doesn’t let you catch your breath. My friend Mike once joked that reading a Clive Cussler book is like running a marathon with a bear chasing you. The action is relentless, the stakes are high, and just when you think it’s safe to take a sip of your coffee, another twist jumps out and slaps the cup right out of your hand.

Of course, every rose has its thorns. Sometimes the twists can feel a bit over the top. Like, really, how many lost treasures are out there? But hey, we read Cussler for the thrill ride, not for a lesson in probability.

Next up, let’s chat about one of my favorite topics: character development. Hang tight!

Exploring Character Development in Clive Cussler’s Novels

When it comes to character development, Clive Cussler doesn’t always get top marks on my scorecard. His novels are like action-packed rollercoasters, but sometimes his characters feel more like cardboard cutouts than real people. I mean, I’ve met more dynamic characters in an episode of SpongeBob SquarePants!

Take his famous protagonist, Dirk Pitt, for example. This guy is like James Bond mixed with Indiana Jones, only with more underwater adventures. Sure, he’s cool, suave, and can pull off ridiculous stunts, but after a while, he starts to feel too perfect. Can someone this heroic have no flaws? I remember reading ‘Raise the Titanic!’ and thinking, “C’mon, Dirk, show us some human side!” He rarely does.

On the flip side, Cussler’s side characters often add the extra flavor. Al Giordino, Dirk’s loyal sidekick, stole the show for me several times. This guy is the definition of loyalty with a pinch of humor and a dash of badassery. He’s the peanut butter to Dirk’s jelly. But again, many other characters in Cussler’s novels don’t get much love or depth. They might as well be named Guy One and Guy Two.

Despite these flaws, Cussler fans love his characters for what they are – larger-than-life heroes who live in a world where the impossible is possible. If you’re just in for the thrills, you might not mind the lack of development.

Still, for readers who crave deep and evolving characters, Cussler’s approach can sometimes feel unsatisfying. But hold on to your bookmarks, because next, we’re tackling the writing style and pacing in Clive Cussler’s novels – and oh boy, is there a lot to say!

Array

Overall Enjoyment and Entertainment in Clive Cussler’s Novels

Alright folks, let’s talk about the overall enjoyment and entertainment value of Clive Cussler’s novels. Picture this: You’re on a lazy Sunday afternoon, snuggled in your favorite chair, with a cup of hot cocoa in one hand and a Cussler novel in the other. Pure bliss, right? That’s the magic his books bring.

Clive Cussler has this knack for mixing adventure with the right sprinkle of history. You can be sure that you’re going to travel to some exotic locations without even leaving your couch. Atlantis, anyone? The historical elements keep it interesting, and you’ll find yourself googling places and events because, well, Cussler made it sound that cool.

What I love most is the pacing. Fast-paced scenes get your heart racing, kind of like you just had three shots of espresso. There’s never a dull moment. You turn the page, and boom, something explodes. I mean, who needs a gym when Cussler’s books give your adrenaline a workout?

But, let’s be real. Sometimes, the over-the-top action feels like a roller-coaster that never stops. It can get a bit overwhelming, like eating too much candy. And yes, the heroes can feel a tad too heroic. Yet, hey, they are entertaining!

So, do I recommend Clive Cussler’s novels? Absolutely! For the pure, unadulterated joy and excitement they bring, give them a shot. Just remember to breathe between the action scenes!

Conclusion

Clive Cussler’s novels are perfect for anyone who loves thrilling adventures and relentless action. The plot twists are exciting, even if they can sometimes be a bit over the top. Characters are engaging, though they may lack depth at times. Overall, these books are a great choice for an entertaining read. This concludes my review. Grab a Cussler novel and get ready for a wild ride!

4/5Overall Score
Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!