Sandstorm

James Rollins

Book 1 in the series:Sigma Force

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Who Would Like This Book:

If non-stop action, archaeological mysteries, and secret agent escapades are your jam, Sandstorm is a blast! James Rollins kicks off the Sigma Force series with a wild ride from the British Museum to the deserts of Arabia, mixing cutting-edge science with epic adventure. Fans of Indiana Jones, Dan Brown, Clive Cussler, and pulpy thrillers will be right at home here. Plus, if you love learning a smidge of real history and science while solving world-threatening puzzles, this is a perfect pick for your next adrenaline-fueled escape.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you crave deep character development, tight plotting, or hard-hitting realism, this might feel like a popcorn read that leaves you wanting more substance. Some readers found the characters one-dimensional or hard to connect with, and the plot a bit far-fetched (think blockbuster, not biography!). The blend of science, history, and techno-babble may be a bit much if you're not in the mood for suspension of disbelief. And if you can't stand thriller clichés or don't enjoy military/spy elements, this series opener might not win you over.

A pulpy, fast-paced archaeological thriller that's pure fun - great for an action fix, but not for those looking for literary depth or super memorable characters.

About:

'Sandstorm' by James Rollins is the first book in the Sigma Force series and follows a team of scientist soldiers who are tasked with investigating a mysterious explosion at the British Museum. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a dangerous plot involving ancient civilizations, archaeology, and a race against time to prevent a catastrophic event. The book is described as a fast-paced action-adventure with a mix of science, history, mythology, and suspense, featuring kick-ass characters and exotic locations that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

The writing style of James Rollins in 'Sandstorm' is praised for its blend of scientific facts with adrenaline-fueled fiction, creating a gripping and entertaining narrative. The book is commended for its non-stop action, intricate plot, likable characters, and a good balance between historical details, science, and myth, making it an addictive and enjoyable read for fans of thrillers and adventure novels.

Characters:

The characters vary in depth, with some being relatable and well-developed, while others serve more as plot devices, leading to a mixed reception.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is fast-paced and engaging, interweaving humor with serious themes and well-researched scientific concepts.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot is a blend of adventure and mystery as characters navigate perilous situations, seeking a legendary city while being pursued by antagonistic forces.

Setting:

The setting ranges from an explosive museum in London to the treacherous deserts of Oman, enriched with historical and archaeological significance.

Pacing:

Pacing is mostly fast and engaging, but there are moments where the story feels slow, particularly at the beginning.

If he had known this, he would've smoked his last cigarette down to the filter. Instead he stamped out the fag after only three drags and waved the cloud from around his face. If he was caught smoking...

Notes:

Sandstorm is the first book in the Sigma Force series by James Rollins.

The story kicks off with an explosion at the British Museum caused by a floating orb of energy.

The main characters include archaeologists Safia al Maaz and Lady Kara Kensington, who search for the lost city of Ubar.

Sigma Force is a secret US government organization that combines military training with scientific expertise.

The plot features a blend of adventure, archaeology, and espionage, akin to Indiana Jones.

The climax of the story unfolds during a massive sandstorm in the Arabian desert.

The book was published in 2004 and has garnered a mixed reception, with some finding it fun and others critiquing its character depth.

James Rollins incorporates real scientific concepts into his fiction, ending each book with a 'Fact or Fiction' section that separates myth from reality.

Many readers appreciate the fast-paced action and thrilling escapism of the narrative despite its formulaic structure.

The characters in the book, especially the females, are often seen as less developed compared to the action-driven plot.

There is a mix of humor and serious moments throughout the story, making it engaging as a light read.

From The Publisher:

More heart-stopping action and suspense from the bestselling author of Amazonia and Subterranean. . . . "Rollins writes with intelligence, clarity, and a refreshing sense of humor."-Kirkus Reviews

In his five previous thrillers, James Rollins, the king of speculative adventure writing, has taken readers on mind-expanding journeys spanning from the top of the world to deep within the earth's surface. In this latest voyage of imagination combining hard science with explosive page-turning excitement-his most breathtaking yet-he explores the mysterious sands of the Arabian peninsula.

Twenty years ago, a wealthy British financier disappeared near Ubar, the fabled lost city buried beneath the sands of Oman. Now, an expedition of scientists, led by the financier's daughter, is finally setting off for the legendary metropolist to unlock the desert's secrets. What they find, however, is more beautiful than they ever dreamed-and far deadlier. Within Ubar is a powerful energy source that could fuel the entire earth above-if it can be harnessed. But before they can resurface, the explorers become trapped. For the same life-giving force that can save the world is about to set off a giant, sweeping storm awesome enough to annihilate everything in its wake . . .

2004

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727 pages

Ratings (38)

Incredible (7)
Loved It (14)
Liked It (10)
It Was OK (5)
Did Not Like (1)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (86):

Read It (43)
Want To Read (30)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (12)

1 comment(s)

NamelessWay

Liked It

9 months

Was this book an exciting adventure? Yes. However, there were some serious shortcomings. It seemed very much like it was written by someone who really really loved X-Files and at the same time thinks that the US government is trustworthy. Some of the science is wrong, and some is just far-fetched. I thought that the romance was a poor choice, since it put the reader in the position of choosing sides, which meant that some readers were going to end up being dissatisfied with the ending. Anyway, it was fun, but I doubt I'll read another one by this author. I didn't love X-Files quite that much.

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