The Cry of the Halidon is a novel that showcases an international view of greed, corruption, history, and bigotry set in Jamaica. The book provides good information about Jamaica and its problems, giving readers a glimpse into the country's issues. The plot is intriguing, with interesting characters and a complex storyline that delves into the early writings of Robert Ludlum.

The writing style of The Cry of the Halidon is a mix of excitement and labored reading according to readers. While some found the story tough to put down and enjoyed the descriptive writing that made them feel part of the action, others felt that the plot was weak, the characters lacked substance, and the book was not up to Ludlum's usual high standard.

Characters:

While some characters are interesting, many lack depth and feel artificial.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is descriptive and immersive but shows challenges in character development and coherence.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features complex themes such as greed and corruption, with an international scope but lacks suspense and coherence.

Setting:

The setting is in Jamaica, providing insights into its history and culture.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally slow and laborious, with a lack of sustained interest throughout.

Notes:

The Cry of the Halidon is one of Robert Ludlum's early works.

J.J. Abrams found a copy of the book in an airport lounge, which inspired him to write.

The book features a unique concept where a previous reader encourages others to read and pass it along.

Some readers found the plot complex and challenging to follow, with many random characters and events.

The book offers insights into Jamaican history and societal issues.

It received mixed reviews, with some praising its storytelling and others criticizing its pacing.

Abrams's new book, S, is recommended to be read in physical form for a fuller experience.

Ludlum's signature style of mixing mystery, romance, and adventure is discussed, though this book is considered less thrilling than others.

Readers noted that the novel lacks the suspense typical of Ludlum's later works.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of corruption, bigotry, and political intrigue.

From The Publisher:

Alex McAuliff has received an offer he can't refuse: two million dollars for a geological survey of Jamaica. All Dunstone Limited requires is his time, his expertise, and his absolute secrecy. No one-not even McAuliff's handpicked team-can know of Dunstone's involvement. But British Intelligence is aware of the deal, and they've let Alex in on a secret of their own: The last survey team Dunstone dispatched to Jamaica vanished without a trace. Now it's too late to turn back. Alex already knows about Dunstone-which means he knows too much. From the moment he lands in Jamaica, Alex is a marked man. On an island paradise where a beautiful woman might be a spy and every move could be his last, Alex's only clue to survival is a single mysterious word: Halidon.

Praise for Robert Ludlum

"Don't ever begin a Ludlum novel if you have to go to work the next day." - Chicago Sun-Times

"Ludlum stuffs more surprises into his novels than any other six-pack of thriller writers combined." - The New York Times

Ratings (2)

Loved It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (2):

Read It (2)

What can you read after
The Cry of the Halidon?

See the list (11 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

The Cry of the Halidon

Robert Ludlum (Jonathan Ryder)