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mmulvaney's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
innae's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I am not an Action/Espionage/War genre fan, and yet..the Joe Ledger and now Rogue International series just keeps getting better. I was a bit worried as we neared the end of the book..still a few things to wrap up, but Maberry didn’t let me down, although he did indeed set up the next book..which I will *patiently* wait for.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Kidnapping, and Torture
kd_reading's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
smcfarlane's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
jeansbooks's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
jkellyjr's review against another edition
5.0
An Explosive Rollercoaster Ride of Action, Intrigue, and Emotional Depth
Book Information
"Cave 13" authored by Jonathan Maberry, is a 528-page thriller published on August 29, 2023. The audio version is narrated by Ray Porter and spans 19 hours and 5 minutes. This is the 3rd book in Maberry’s Rogue Team International series. Thank you to MacMillan Audio for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.
Summary
Joe Ledger and Rogue Team International are called to engage as a dangerous arms race threatens to spark new wars in the Middle East. A newly discovered cave holds Dead Sea Scrolls with books of actual magic, sought after by terrorists and corporations. However, those who approach the scrolls go insane, raising questions about whether it's ancient magic or a new bioweapon causing this madness.
My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Jonathan Maberry's latest offering, "Cave 13." This book is a non-stop action-packed thriller from start to finish, delivering a pulse-pounding experience that will keep you glued to the pages. Maberry doesn't just write a story; he crafts an experience that will haunt your thoughts long after you've closed the book. This is book three in a spinoff series and while it can be read as a standalone, I can't help but wonder if reading the first two books in the series would have enhanced my enjoyment even more.
One of the standout features of "Cave 13" is Maberry's ability to craft comprehensive descriptions that immerse you in the story's vivid world. The book boasts multiple storylines that intertwine seamlessly, creating layers of intrigue that keep you guessing. There are several unexpected twists and, most impressively, a major surprise that, despite the subtle clues scattered throughout, caught me completely off guard. It's a rare treat when a book can genuinely surprise its readers.
It's worth noting that "Cave 13" doesn't shy away from violence and turmoil. The story revolves around a paramilitary group fighting terrorism, resulting in a high body count. Maberry's descriptive style extends to the depiction of violence and its physical and emotional consequences on the characters. What sets this apart from your typical thriller is the addition of "magic" elements, which infuse the violence with a trippy and hallucinatory quality, making it a unique reading experience.
While action and violence are prominent, "Cave 13" also delves deeply into interpersonal relationships, adding layers of emotional depth to the narrative. The characters are brilliantly developed, with Joe Ledger standing out as a multi-dimensional protagonist. Maberry not only focuses on their skill sets and backgrounds but also delves into their emotional journeys. Many of these characters have faced dark events in their past, and the novel explores how these experiences influence their thoughts and actions in the present. The introspective moments add complexity rarely seen in military thrillers.
So, a few minor quibbles, "Cave 13" is not a quick read due to its length, so readers looking for a rapid-fire adventure may need to adjust their expectations. Additionally, while the vivid descriptions of mind-altering "magic" are fascinating, there are instances where they feel slightly overused, and one particular use of magic to advance the plot seemed out of sync with the characteristics of every other instance. The thematic thread of "magic" could have been developed further (as was suggested in the book summary) to match the depth of other story elements.
The audiobook version, narrated by Ray Porter, is amazing. Porter's exceptional voice, impeccable timing, spot-on intonation, masterful accents, and perfectly paced delivery enhance the already gripping story. As I write this review, I am heading it read by him in my head and I have to say it makes the review sound much better. His narration is so spot-on that it's like he's whispering the secrets of the universe directly into your ear - a performance that audiobook lovers won't want to miss. It's one of the finest audiobook performances I've experienced, and I'll be actively seeking out more of his work.
Recommendation
"Cave 13" is a Pandora's box of suspense and surprises – once you open it, you won't be able to look away. It’s a thrilling addition to Jonathan Maberry's literary universe, offering a heart-pounding mix of action, well-crafted characters, and emotional depth. A captivating journey that will leave you eager for more. Highly recommended.
Rating
4.5 RTI Stars
Book Information
"Cave 13" authored by Jonathan Maberry, is a 528-page thriller published on August 29, 2023. The audio version is narrated by Ray Porter and spans 19 hours and 5 minutes. This is the 3rd book in Maberry’s Rogue Team International series. Thank you to MacMillan Audio for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.
Summary
Joe Ledger and Rogue Team International are called to engage as a dangerous arms race threatens to spark new wars in the Middle East. A newly discovered cave holds Dead Sea Scrolls with books of actual magic, sought after by terrorists and corporations. However, those who approach the scrolls go insane, raising questions about whether it's ancient magic or a new bioweapon causing this madness.
My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Jonathan Maberry's latest offering, "Cave 13." This book is a non-stop action-packed thriller from start to finish, delivering a pulse-pounding experience that will keep you glued to the pages. Maberry doesn't just write a story; he crafts an experience that will haunt your thoughts long after you've closed the book. This is book three in a spinoff series and while it can be read as a standalone, I can't help but wonder if reading the first two books in the series would have enhanced my enjoyment even more.
One of the standout features of "Cave 13" is Maberry's ability to craft comprehensive descriptions that immerse you in the story's vivid world. The book boasts multiple storylines that intertwine seamlessly, creating layers of intrigue that keep you guessing. There are several unexpected twists and, most impressively, a major surprise that, despite the subtle clues scattered throughout, caught me completely off guard. It's a rare treat when a book can genuinely surprise its readers.
It's worth noting that "Cave 13" doesn't shy away from violence and turmoil. The story revolves around a paramilitary group fighting terrorism, resulting in a high body count. Maberry's descriptive style extends to the depiction of violence and its physical and emotional consequences on the characters. What sets this apart from your typical thriller is the addition of "magic" elements, which infuse the violence with a trippy and hallucinatory quality, making it a unique reading experience.
While action and violence are prominent, "Cave 13" also delves deeply into interpersonal relationships, adding layers of emotional depth to the narrative. The characters are brilliantly developed, with Joe Ledger standing out as a multi-dimensional protagonist. Maberry not only focuses on their skill sets and backgrounds but also delves into their emotional journeys. Many of these characters have faced dark events in their past, and the novel explores how these experiences influence their thoughts and actions in the present. The introspective moments add complexity rarely seen in military thrillers.
So, a few minor quibbles, "Cave 13" is not a quick read due to its length, so readers looking for a rapid-fire adventure may need to adjust their expectations. Additionally, while the vivid descriptions of mind-altering "magic" are fascinating, there are instances where they feel slightly overused, and one particular use of magic to advance the plot seemed out of sync with the characteristics of every other instance. The thematic thread of "magic" could have been developed further (as was suggested in the book summary) to match the depth of other story elements.
The audiobook version, narrated by Ray Porter, is amazing. Porter's exceptional voice, impeccable timing, spot-on intonation, masterful accents, and perfectly paced delivery enhance the already gripping story. As I write this review, I am heading it read by him in my head and I have to say it makes the review sound much better. His narration is so spot-on that it's like he's whispering the secrets of the universe directly into your ear - a performance that audiobook lovers won't want to miss. It's one of the finest audiobook performances I've experienced, and I'll be actively seeking out more of his work.
Recommendation
"Cave 13" is a Pandora's box of suspense and surprises – once you open it, you won't be able to look away. It’s a thrilling addition to Jonathan Maberry's literary universe, offering a heart-pounding mix of action, well-crafted characters, and emotional depth. A captivating journey that will leave you eager for more. Highly recommended.
Rating
4.5 RTI Stars
rebeeps's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
kremkim's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
tense
medium-paced
4.25
I love the both Joe ledger series and was not sure were this one was going. It was both nerve-wracking and enticing.
jackcryan's review
adventurous
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Builds to the next villain in the series.
roksyreads's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
It's very rare that I am so excited about a book that I will read it as soon as it comes out. Usually, I'm happy to pop them on my shelf and let them age like a fine wine, waiting for the right mood. I could not wait even a single day after the release for this one, which has to be the book I have most looked forward to in years.
As I have come to expect from Jonathan Maberry, Cave 13 is incredibly well written, action-packed, intense, and full of heart. I love Joe and the entire cast of RTI and Church's friends in the industry. I was very worried about the last few chapters - it felt like time was running out for any possible happy or at least somewhat safe resolution - but Joe and RTI have done it again!
I'm so excited for the next adventure!
As I have come to expect from Jonathan Maberry, Cave 13 is incredibly well written, action-packed, intense, and full of heart. I love Joe and the entire cast of RTI and Church's friends in the industry. I was very worried about the last few chapters - it felt like time was running out for any possible happy or at least somewhat safe resolution - but Joe and RTI have done it again!
I'm so excited for the next adventure!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Death, and Violence
Moderate: Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Rape and War