"Cradle" by Gentry Lee and Arthur C. Clarke is a science fiction novel with a plot that involves international intrigue surrounding the investigation of a mysterious alien presence on the ocean floor. The story unfolds with the main characters encountering various challenges and obstacles as they delve deeper into uncovering the secrets of the alien presence. The writing style is a blend of science fact and fiction, with some readers finding the characters engaging while others criticize the disjointed themes and character development.

Characters:

Characters are depicted as engaging yet one-dimensional, with their past traumas dominating the narrative and occasionally hindering the overall impact.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is considered subpar, with forced dialogue and clumsy character development, occasionally infused with both scientific and romantic elements.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative emphasizes character studies over a coherent plot, featuring a reporter on a quest that intertwines with alien elements but concludes abruptly.

Setting:

The setting is predominantly in the Florida Keys, featuring underwater exploration and combining terrestrial with extraterrestrial elements.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow, focusing on character exploration with infrequent alien segments, ultimately leading to a hasty climax.

THE emerald water smashes against the dark volcanic cliffs. Fine white spray hovers over the harsh rock creating a misty veil that glimmers in the fading light. In the distance, two yellow suns set si...

Notes:

Cradle is co-authored by Arthur C. Clarke and Gentry Lee.

The book is a character study centered on three main protagonists.

The story includes elements of underwater treasure hunting.

It features a reporter named Carol searching for a lost Navy missile.

The character development is criticized for being clumsy and excessive.

The dialogue initially feels forced but may improve later.

Sci-fi elements are presented in isolated chapters throughout the book.

Interaction with aliens occurs near the end but lacks depth.

The ending is abrupt, leaving no resolution to the story.

Some readers find the characters engaging despite initial impressions.

The book includes themes of human emotional trauma and relationships.

It is often compared unfavorably to Clarke's earlier works like the Rama series.

Many readers say the writing quality is below Clarke's usual standard.

Some find the sexual content unnecessary and irrelevant to the story.

The book employs a mix of international intrigue and sci-fi themes.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book features themes of emotional trauma and some awkward character interactions that may be triggering for some readers.

Has Romance?

The romantic elements in Cradle are present but not overly prominent; there are several interactions that develop romantic tension.

From The Publisher:

In a mind-blowing mix of scientific speculation and thriller, two seemingly unconnected events trigger off the discovery of nothing less than the secret of humanity's existence.

1987

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402 pages

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Cradle

Gentry Lee, Arthur C. Clarke

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