A typical Dirk Pitt adventure. Clive Cussler is an interesting author. The one thing I always enjoy about his books is how he works himself into each one as a minor character. Sometimes I think I read the book through quickly at first just to find his one mention of himself. This novel was based on the ever-increasing price of oil, and what would happen to the global economy if the oil-getting process was disrupted. Made me stop and think a little about how much I take gasoline for granted.

One thing about the Dirk Pitt adventures, they are just that -- adventures. Mr. Cussler doesn't spend a lot of time with other non-essential parts of the story. The language is always "g" rated, and sex scenes are few and far between. Rather refreshing, actually. As always the book begins with an accurate historical scenario that sets up the plot for the rest of the book. I like those.

And, for what it's worth, the governmental agency that is always the basis for the adventures, NUMA, actually exists.

This is a good read -- fun, and easy to read.