I would give this book a solid 3 stars. The plot concerning the prehistoric creatures on this newly found island in Russia is engaging and is moves quickly so you are not ever left wondering when the plot is going to move. I think fans of Jurassic Park or other similar books would be interested in this book. That being said, I felt that the plot concerning the red herring of the fake environmental excavation of the island could have been developed a lot more. I didn't feel any gravity concerning this plot and did not find the need to blow up an entire building full of people justifiable in order to serve these means. The plot was quick moving and kept you engaged but the multiple story lines were lacking in harmony with the overall plot.

It’s a creature feature!

I do believe that I just read a horror book! I didn’t know what to expect, thought maybe sci-fi but all good, I really enjoyed it. The style of the story and the writing reminded me very much of Matthew Reilly’s early books Ice Station and Temple. I loved those books too.

A bunch of scientists are part of a group tasked with conducting an environmental impact assessment of Harmsworth Island in Franz Josef Land - an archipelago north of Siberia in the Barents Sea, well north of the Arctic Circle (I do love a book set in a cold climate). They are based on the icebreaker Albanov anchored offshore. A Russian company wants to start tapping into the suspected rich gas reserves around the island and, in accordance with the terms of the Arctic Council, of which thy are a member, requires this assessment before work can commence. The group includes, among others: Dr Callum Ross, archaeologist; Dr Ava Lee, vertebrate palaeontologist; Dr Daryl Lebedev, ecologist and Dan Peterson whose area of expertise is not made clear. But - as if the brutal climate is not enough to deal with, there is a secret plot afoot to sabotage the job.

And as if that is not enough, there are worse things than the cold to worry about on the island. Something stalks the unwary on this island. Among the scientists a groups Russian spetsnaz soldiers are along to provide ‘security’. Well there are polar bears around. After the sabotage, a small group of scientists, a large contingent of soldiers and the CEO of the gas company are stranded on the island - and that’s when the fun really begins. Something is out there! Something is out to get them!

There was quite a bit of blood, and gore so if you are squeamish this is probably not a book for you. It wasn’t deep and meaningful. The characters were only developed as far as necessary to tell the story. But what this book had in spades was action, drama, suspense, screams. If you want a fast paced story that has you on the edge of your seat - this book is for you! Thanks to Netgalley, the Book Guild and Benjamin for the review copy. My opinions are my own.

Oooh, I do like me a scary story and this one is particularly good!! Hard to believe it is a debut novel, this author will go far, clearly :)

Callum is an archaeologist who has been asked to take the place of his mentor and friend, Jonas, on an expedition to a remote Arctic island. He will have to leave his eight year old son behind, and since he is a part-time dad, time together is precious. There is plenty to explore on the island but when Callum makes the find of his career, he doesn't yet know that he is not alone.....and the natives are far from friendly. 

A fast-paced, believable tale set in an inhospitable place. There are politics involved in the story as well, which I didn't like as much, but all in all this is a really great read.

5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and The Book Guild.