Fans of Douglas Preston’s chilling thrillers will be excited to dive into “Dead Mountain,” the latest installment featuring archaeologist Nora Kelly. This novel, the fourth in the series, can be enjoyed as a standalone, but readers familiar with the characters will likely find even greater depth in their reunion.
The story centers around a haunting, unsolved mystery. Fifteen years ago, a peaceful camping trip in the mountains turned into a nightmare. A group of mountaineers fled their tent in terror, some even venturing out barefoot in the freezing conditions. Only six bodies were ever recovered, and the cause of their demise remained a horrifying enigma. Some bodies exhibited shocking signs of violence, with missing eyes and limbs adding to the chilling puzzle. This unsolved case, nicknamed “Dead Mountain” by the FBI, continues to cast a long shadow.
The arrival of new information reignites the investigation. Two more bodies from the ill-fated expedition are discovered in a cave, one a gruesome suicide. Enter FBI Agent Corrie Swanson, a familiar face from previous novels, who enlists the help of the ever-resourceful Nora Kelly. Together, they delve into the murky depths of the Dead Mountain case.
As Nora and Corrie dig deeper, they uncover a web of secrets that extends far beyond a simple mountain tragedy. Their investigation leads them down a path riddled with danger, forcing them to confront powerful forces determined to keep the truth buried.
Reviewers on Goodreads praise the novel’s fast-paced narrative and suspenseful atmosphere. The chilling mystery surrounding Dead Mountain keeps readers guessing, with unexpected twists and turns along the way. The return of the well-developed characters, Nora Kelly and Corrie Swanson, is a highlight for fans of the series, while newcomers can still appreciate their unique strengths and dynamics.
While the overall reception is positive, some readers found the ending to be a bit rushed or lacking in believability. However, the general consensus remains that “Dead Mountain” is a thrilling and suspenseful read, perfect for fans of Preston’s trademark blend of archaeology, mystery, and danger.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Nora Kelly series or simply seeking a gripping thriller, “Dead Mountain” is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. With its well-developed characters, chilling mystery, and fast-paced plot, this novel is a worthy addition to Douglas Preston’s impressive collection.
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Dead Mountain (Nora Kelly, #4) by Douglas Preston | Goodreads
