Crimson Shore

FBI Special Agent Pendergast and his ward Constance Greene take on a case in coastal Massachusetts investigating the theft of a wine collection from a sculptor's home in a converted lighthouse. During their initial investigation, they discover hidden evidence of historical crimes dating back to the 1840s. The case connects to local legends about Salem witch trial refugees, a missing ship called the Pembroke Castle, and a set of valuable rubies known as the Pride of Africa. When modern-day murders begin occurring with ritualistic markings, Pendergast must determine whether there are connections between past and present crimes. The investigation leads Pendergast and Greene through the history of Exmouth, Massachusetts, from its whaling industry peak through its decline following the Krakatoa eruption of 1883. The partners navigate both long-buried secrets and immediate dangers as they pursue answers. This entry in the Pendergast series explores themes of greed, revenge, and how historical events continue to influence the present. The stark New England coastal setting serves as both backdrop and active element in this supernatural-tinged mystery.

Readers call this a solid addition to the Pendergast series with an engaging mystery and coastal New England atmosphere. Many note it maintains momentum until the final chapters. Likes: - Strong sense of place and local history - Complex relationship between Pendergast and Constance - First half's focused investigation - Audio narration by Rene Auberjonois Dislikes: - Abrupt shift in tone and plot direction near the end - Supernatural elements feel forced to some readers - Cliffhanger ending frustrates those wanting resolution - Secondary characters lack development "The first 3/4 is classic Pendergast, then it goes off the rails," notes one Amazon reviewer. Multiple readers mention feeling "baited and switched" by the story's direction. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (15,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (1,900+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.1/5 (300+ ratings) The ratings indicate readers enjoyed the book despite reservations about its ending.

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🔍 The coastal town of Exmouth mentioned in the book was a real hub for bootlegging during Prohibition, with many historic wine cellars still existing today. 🏛️ Douglas Preston worked as the Registrar of the American Museum of Natural History before becoming a novelist, which often influences his detailed scientific descriptions. ⚓ The plot element of missing sailing vessels draws from real New England maritime history, where over 3,000 ships were lost along the Massachusetts coast between 1614 and 1850. 🧙‍♀️ While Salem's witch trials are well-known, many surrounding Massachusetts towns like Exmouth actually served as refuge points for those fleeing the persecution. 📚 Crimson Shore is the 15th book in the Pendergast series, which Preston co-authors with Lincoln Child - a collaboration that began when they met while Preston was working at the Museum of Natural History.