Plum Island

Detective John Corey, a wounded NYPD officer recuperating on Long Island's North Fork, becomes entangled in a murder investigation when two local scientists from the Plum Island Animal Disease Center are found dead. The investigation draws Corey into a complex web of local politics, federal agencies, and suspicious characters as he partners with Suffolk County detective Beth Penrose to uncover the truth behind the murders. The proximity of Plum Island - a secretive government facility rumored to conduct biological warfare research - adds layers of intrigue to the case. The novel moves between the quiet harbors and inlets of Long Island's East End and the mysterious research facility on Plum Island, creating a stark contrast between small-town life and high-stakes government operations. This thriller examines themes of trust, power, and the tension between surface appearances and hidden realities in seemingly peaceful communities.

Readers highlight the witty banter and sarcastic humor of detective John Corey as the book's strongest element. Many note the authentic portrayal of Long Island's east end communities and culture. The pacing and procedural details earn praise for feeling realistic rather than sensationalized. Likes: - Sharp dialogue and Corey's one-liners - Complex mystery that avoids predictable paths - Rich local atmosphere and setting details - Balance of humor with serious investigation Dislikes: - Length (some find the 500+ pages excessive) - Slower middle section - Too much internal monologue - Some find Corey's sarcasm grating Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (78,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (3,800+ ratings) Common reader comment: "The mystery keeps you guessing, but it's Corey's personality that makes you stay." Several reviews note this as their favorite in the John Corey series, particularly praising the fresh take on a detective protagonist.

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🔍 Plum Island is a real government facility that has operated since 1954, primarily focusing on preventing foreign animal diseases from entering U.S. livestock populations. 🕵️‍♂️ John Corey, the protagonist, appears in seven subsequent novels by DeMille, becoming one of his most successful recurring characters. 📚 Nelson DeMille was inspired to write this story after growing up on Long Island and hearing local legends about the secretive research conducted on Plum Island. 🦠 The actual Plum Island Animal Disease Center has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories, including claims about Lyme disease originating from its labs. 🌊 The North Fork setting described in the book has become a popular wine region, with over 60 vineyards established since the 1970s, adding authenticity to the novel's backdrop.