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Nora Kelly #5
Badlands
In the New Mexico badlands, the skeleton of a woman is found—and the case is assigned to FBI Agent Corrie Swanson. The victim walked into the desert, shedding clothes as she went, and then died in agony of heatstroke and thirst. Two rare artifacts are found clutched in her bony hands—lightning stones used by the ancient Chaco people to summon the gods.
Is it suicide or… sacrifice?
Agent Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. When a second body is found—exactly like the other—the two realize the case runs deeper than they imagined. As Corrie and Nora pursue their investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves confronting a dark power that, disturbed from its long slumber, threatens to exact an unspeakable price.
Is it suicide or… sacrifice?
Agent Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. When a second body is found—exactly like the other—the two realize the case runs deeper than they imagined. As Corrie and Nora pursue their investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves confronting a dark power that, disturbed from its long slumber, threatens to exact an unspeakable price.
355 pages, Hardcover
Published June 3, 2025
1092 people are currently reading
14337 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Preston
178 books13.4k followersDouglas Preston was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1956, and grew up in the deadly boring suburb of Wellesley. Following a distinguished career at a private nursery school--he was almost immediately expelled--he attended public schools and the Cambridge School of Weston. Notable events in his early life included the loss of a fingertip at the age of three to a bicycle; the loss of his two front teeth to his brother Richard's fist; and various broken bones, also incurred in dust-ups with Richard. (Richard went on to write The Hot Zone and The Cobra Event, which tells you all you need to know about what it was like to grow up with him as a brother.)
As they grew up, Doug, Richard, and their little brother David roamed the quiet suburbs of Wellesley, terrorizing the natives with home-made rockets and incendiary devices mail-ordered from the backs of comic books or concocted from chemistry sets. With a friend they once attempted to fly a rocket into Wellesley Square; the rocket malfunctioned and nearly killed a man mowing his lawn. They were local celebrities, often appearing in the "Police Notes" section of The Wellesley Townsman. It is a miracle they survived childhood intact.
After unaccountably being rejected by Stanford University (a pox on it), Preston attended Pomona College in Claremont, California, where he studied mathematics, biology, physics, anthropology, chemistry, geology, and astronomy before settling down to English literature. After graduating, Preston began his career at the American Museum of Natural History in New York as an editor, writer, and eventually manager of publications. (Preston also taught writing at Princeton University and was managing editor of Curator.) His eight-year stint at the Museum resulted in the non-fiction book, Dinosaurs in the Attic, edited by a rising young star at St. Martin's Press, a polymath by the name of Lincoln Child. During this period, Preston gave Child a midnight tour of the museum, and in the darkened Hall of Late Dinosaurs, under a looming T. Rex, Child turned to Preston and said: "This would make the perfect setting for a thriller!" That thriller would, of course, be Relic.
In 1986, Douglas Preston piled everything he owned into the back of a Subaru and moved from New York City to Santa Fe to write full time, following the advice of S. J. Perelman that "the dubious privilege of a freelance writer is he's given the freedom to starve anywhere." After the requisite period of penury, Preston achieved a small success with the publication of Cities of Gold, a non-fiction book about Coronado's search for the legendary Seven Cities of Cibola. To research the book, Preston and a friend retraced on horseback 1,000 miles of Coronado's route across Arizona and New Mexico, packing their supplies and sleeping under the stars--nearly killing themselves in the process. Since then he has published several more non-fiction books on the history of the American Southwest, Talking to the Ground and The Royal Road, as well as a novel entitled Jennie. In the early 1990s Preston and Child teamed up to write suspense novels; Relic was the first, followed by several others, including Riptide and Thunderhead. Relic was released as a motion picture by Paramount in 1997. Other films are under development at Hollywood studios. Preston and Child live 500 miles apart and write their books together via telephone, fax, and the Internet.
Preston and his brother Richard are currently producing a television miniseries for ABC and Mandalay Entertainment, to be aired in the spring of 2000, if all goes well, which in Hollywood is rarely the case.
Preston continues a magazine writing career by contributing regularly to The New Yorker magazine. He has also written for National Geographic, Natural History, Smithsonisan, Harper's,and Travel & Leisure,among others.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/dougla...
As they grew up, Doug, Richard, and their little brother David roamed the quiet suburbs of Wellesley, terrorizing the natives with home-made rockets and incendiary devices mail-ordered from the backs of comic books or concocted from chemistry sets. With a friend they once attempted to fly a rocket into Wellesley Square; the rocket malfunctioned and nearly killed a man mowing his lawn. They were local celebrities, often appearing in the "Police Notes" section of The Wellesley Townsman. It is a miracle they survived childhood intact.
After unaccountably being rejected by Stanford University (a pox on it), Preston attended Pomona College in Claremont, California, where he studied mathematics, biology, physics, anthropology, chemistry, geology, and astronomy before settling down to English literature. After graduating, Preston began his career at the American Museum of Natural History in New York as an editor, writer, and eventually manager of publications. (Preston also taught writing at Princeton University and was managing editor of Curator.) His eight-year stint at the Museum resulted in the non-fiction book, Dinosaurs in the Attic, edited by a rising young star at St. Martin's Press, a polymath by the name of Lincoln Child. During this period, Preston gave Child a midnight tour of the museum, and in the darkened Hall of Late Dinosaurs, under a looming T. Rex, Child turned to Preston and said: "This would make the perfect setting for a thriller!" That thriller would, of course, be Relic.
In 1986, Douglas Preston piled everything he owned into the back of a Subaru and moved from New York City to Santa Fe to write full time, following the advice of S. J. Perelman that "the dubious privilege of a freelance writer is he's given the freedom to starve anywhere." After the requisite period of penury, Preston achieved a small success with the publication of Cities of Gold, a non-fiction book about Coronado's search for the legendary Seven Cities of Cibola. To research the book, Preston and a friend retraced on horseback 1,000 miles of Coronado's route across Arizona and New Mexico, packing their supplies and sleeping under the stars--nearly killing themselves in the process. Since then he has published several more non-fiction books on the history of the American Southwest, Talking to the Ground and The Royal Road, as well as a novel entitled Jennie. In the early 1990s Preston and Child teamed up to write suspense novels; Relic was the first, followed by several others, including Riptide and Thunderhead. Relic was released as a motion picture by Paramount in 1997. Other films are under development at Hollywood studios. Preston and Child live 500 miles apart and write their books together via telephone, fax, and the Internet.
Preston and his brother Richard are currently producing a television miniseries for ABC and Mandalay Entertainment, to be aired in the spring of 2000, if all goes well, which in Hollywood is rarely the case.
Preston continues a magazine writing career by contributing regularly to The New Yorker magazine. He has also written for National Geographic, Natural History, Smithsonisan, Harper's,and Travel & Leisure,among others.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/dougla...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 722 reviews
July 19, 2025
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"Badlands," co-written by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, stands out as an exceptional action-packed thriller that grabs your attention from the very first page. This novel is the fifth installment in the gripping series centred around the resourceful archaeologist Nora Kelly and the dedicated FBI Agent Corrine “Corrie” Swanson. What’s particularly commendable is its ability to serve as a standalone narrative. It allows new readers to jump right into the excitement while showcasing strong, capable female protagonists who break the mould.
The story starts with the unsettling discovery of a skeleton in the harsh, rugged landscape of the New Mexico badlands. FBI Agent Corrie Swanson swiftly takes on the investigation, unravelling the mystery behind the remains of a woman who appears to have ventured deep into the unforgiving desert. Stripping away her clothing piece by piece as she succumbed to the relentless heat and thirst, the investigation reveals clues that hint at a harrowing tale. Among the bones, Corrie finds a spearpoint and two rare greenish pebbles that pique the interest of her colleague, Nora Kelly.
Upon closer examination, Nora identifies the stones as “lightning stones,” highly unusual artifacts made from a mineral called prasiolite. When rubbed together, these stones emit a dazzling display of green light, adding a mystical element to the story. The body is subsequently identified as Molly Vine, a science teacher who mysteriously vanished five years prior.
As the investigation deepens, the discovery of a second body sends shockwaves through the case. The remains belong to Mandy Driver, who had worked in archaeology related to fracking at a company called Geo. Mandy clutched a green lightning stone in her hand, suggesting an ominous connection between the two deceased women. Corrie and Nora’s investigation thrusts them into a maze of clues that point towards Professor Oskarbi, a figure whose ties to both victims stem from their time at the University of New Mexico. His fascination with the Gallinas, an indigenous group decimated by the Chaco Canyon people in the 13th century, brings an intriguing historical layer into the narrative, raising questions about the cultural significance of the lightning stones.
Preston and Child deliver another captivating narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns. "Badlands" is a riveting thriller that kept my heart racing from start to finish. The pacing is expertly crafted, maintaining a lightning-fast rhythm that pulls readers through the story. The vivid descriptions of the New Mexico landscape create a palpable sense of place, immersing readers in this dramatic setting. While some elements may require a suspension of disbelief, the authors skillfully interweave real historical facts into the story's fabric, enhancing its overall authenticity.
Corrie and Nora emerge as formidable characters as the plot thickens, showcasing their intelligence, insight, and competency. It’s a joy to witness their dynamic partnership grow, as both women navigate the complex layers of the investigation. Supporting characters, like Nora's brother Skip, who frequently makes questionable choices, and Corrie’s friend Sheriff Watts, add depth and nuance to the narrative, each contributing to the unfolding drama in their own ways.
"Badlands" is an outstanding choice for enthusiasts of action-packed thrillers, blending history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural into a page-turning experience you won’t want to put down. Prepare to be captivated as you race towards the climax—you’ll likely find yourself reading this gripping tale in one exhilarating sitting.
Thanks to Aria & Aries for providing me with an e-ARC through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
Sorry for the delay I’m working on my review. I have a lot going on in my life my husband is home sick from work and by eldest dog is very ill. Sorry for venting my friends. I hope to have it posted ASAP!!
"Badlands," co-written by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, stands out as an exceptional action-packed thriller that grabs your attention from the very first page. This novel is the fifth installment in the gripping series centred around the resourceful archaeologist Nora Kelly and the dedicated FBI Agent Corrine “Corrie” Swanson. What’s particularly commendable is its ability to serve as a standalone narrative. It allows new readers to jump right into the excitement while showcasing strong, capable female protagonists who break the mould.
The story starts with the unsettling discovery of a skeleton in the harsh, rugged landscape of the New Mexico badlands. FBI Agent Corrie Swanson swiftly takes on the investigation, unravelling the mystery behind the remains of a woman who appears to have ventured deep into the unforgiving desert. Stripping away her clothing piece by piece as she succumbed to the relentless heat and thirst, the investigation reveals clues that hint at a harrowing tale. Among the bones, Corrie finds a spearpoint and two rare greenish pebbles that pique the interest of her colleague, Nora Kelly.
Upon closer examination, Nora identifies the stones as “lightning stones,” highly unusual artifacts made from a mineral called prasiolite. When rubbed together, these stones emit a dazzling display of green light, adding a mystical element to the story. The body is subsequently identified as Molly Vine, a science teacher who mysteriously vanished five years prior.
As the investigation deepens, the discovery of a second body sends shockwaves through the case. The remains belong to Mandy Driver, who had worked in archaeology related to fracking at a company called Geo. Mandy clutched a green lightning stone in her hand, suggesting an ominous connection between the two deceased women. Corrie and Nora’s investigation thrusts them into a maze of clues that point towards Professor Oskarbi, a figure whose ties to both victims stem from their time at the University of New Mexico. His fascination with the Gallinas, an indigenous group decimated by the Chaco Canyon people in the 13th century, brings an intriguing historical layer into the narrative, raising questions about the cultural significance of the lightning stones.
Preston and Child deliver another captivating narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns. "Badlands" is a riveting thriller that kept my heart racing from start to finish. The pacing is expertly crafted, maintaining a lightning-fast rhythm that pulls readers through the story. The vivid descriptions of the New Mexico landscape create a palpable sense of place, immersing readers in this dramatic setting. While some elements may require a suspension of disbelief, the authors skillfully interweave real historical facts into the story's fabric, enhancing its overall authenticity.
Corrie and Nora emerge as formidable characters as the plot thickens, showcasing their intelligence, insight, and competency. It’s a joy to witness their dynamic partnership grow, as both women navigate the complex layers of the investigation. Supporting characters, like Nora's brother Skip, who frequently makes questionable choices, and Corrie’s friend Sheriff Watts, add depth and nuance to the narrative, each contributing to the unfolding drama in their own ways.
"Badlands" is an outstanding choice for enthusiasts of action-packed thrillers, blending history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural into a page-turning experience you won’t want to put down. Prepare to be captivated as you race towards the climax—you’ll likely find yourself reading this gripping tale in one exhilarating sitting.
Thanks to Aria & Aries for providing me with an e-ARC through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
Sorry for the delay I’m working on my review. I have a lot going on in my life my husband is home sick from work and by eldest dog is very ill. Sorry for venting my friends. I hope to have it posted ASAP!!
June 6, 2025
This annual series starring Corrie Swanson & Nora Kelly are becoming a real pleasure filled with the Americain history that made the Pendergast series interesting.
This time FBI agent in training Corrie Swanson is investigating a body in the desert of New Mexico called the Badlands. Found with the body are two rare firestones, in itself a strange death. When a second body is found in similar circumstances questions arise. Nora Kelly her expertise and knowledge are essential as it seems that some evil part in history is or was happening.
Once again a fascinating part of mostly unknown history, pre-European, comes into play. And as always written in an exiting manner which makes for reading and forgeting time. When you come to the last hundred pages you will not put the book down but finish it in the knowledge that it Will be more than a year before we get a new episode of this by now really exciting series of two smart women with a Groningen supporting cast.
With Nora Kelly & Corrie Swanson both writers have created a second series that is as exciting as the Pendergast series in the same universe. This New series does feel very authentic probably because Douglas Preston spend many years travelling and investigating the original history of the natie inhsbitants of America .
This was a real pleasure reading and I do hope there is many more stories to read about these two ladies.
This time FBI agent in training Corrie Swanson is investigating a body in the desert of New Mexico called the Badlands. Found with the body are two rare firestones, in itself a strange death. When a second body is found in similar circumstances questions arise. Nora Kelly her expertise and knowledge are essential as it seems that some evil part in history is or was happening.
Once again a fascinating part of mostly unknown history, pre-European, comes into play. And as always written in an exiting manner which makes for reading and forgeting time. When you come to the last hundred pages you will not put the book down but finish it in the knowledge that it Will be more than a year before we get a new episode of this by now really exciting series of two smart women with a Groningen supporting cast.
With Nora Kelly & Corrie Swanson both writers have created a second series that is as exciting as the Pendergast series in the same universe. This New series does feel very authentic probably because Douglas Preston spend many years travelling and investigating the original history of the natie inhsbitants of America .
This was a real pleasure reading and I do hope there is many more stories to read about these two ladies.
June 23, 2025
Suspense, mysticism, murder, supernatural occurrences, hope, fear, greed, carelessness, brainwashing, cults …. Who could ask for more in a book? Preston & Child handles all this with the dynamic simplicity ascribed to the task.
At times it seemed a slower pace than desired was present. The mystery of the “Why” and the “Who dunnit” added much intrigue, thus helping the pace pick up in the slower passages. The factual data showed much research and created an enticing mindset for further research.
The ending was strong and the resolution was somewhat satisfying.
At times it seemed a slower pace than desired was present. The mystery of the “Why” and the “Who dunnit” added much intrigue, thus helping the pace pick up in the slower passages. The factual data showed much research and created an enticing mindset for further research.
The ending was strong and the resolution was somewhat satisfying.
June 10, 2025
Preston & Child have crafted another riveting novel. A mystery focused on the American Southwest and the Ancestral Puebloan culture. They are experts at blending factual history with arcane knowledge and mysticism to create a story where you’re not sure where fact ends and fiction begins.
December 14, 2025
4.25/4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Ebook format 📖
Another entertaining and fun addition to the Nora Kelly series! The last 60-70 pages of this book was intense, action packed and much darker than I was expecting.
Preston & Child always finds a way to make archaeology exciting, scientific and unique.
We get to look at past civilizations and customs in the lens of a thriller, and find a way to turn it into a page turner and never boring.
I'm excited to keep reading this series and hope they have more books in the pipeline!
Ebook format 📖
Another entertaining and fun addition to the Nora Kelly series! The last 60-70 pages of this book was intense, action packed and much darker than I was expecting.
Preston & Child always finds a way to make archaeology exciting, scientific and unique.
We get to look at past civilizations and customs in the lens of a thriller, and find a way to turn it into a page turner and never boring.
I'm excited to keep reading this series and hope they have more books in the pipeline!
June 9, 2025
Stumbled on this series and not bad, but didn't wow wow me and didn't look forward to going back to it. Intrigued so will give another book in the series a go!!!
Solid 3 stars !!!
Solid 3 stars !!!
June 9, 2025
Although I’ve read several books by authors Preston and Child, this was the first time I got to read a title in the series with FBI agent Corrie Swanson and archaeologist Nora Kelly. I just loved the setting because I hardly know anything about the history and people of New Mexico so I’ve not only read a good story, I’ve learned several new facts. Thanks to the authors for the excellent research and the epilogue with explanations about what’s real and what’s not.
Corrie and Nora and Nora’s brother Skip also end up with thinking about what’s real and what's not, but in a whole other way. They start with trying to find out why some successful and intelligent women end up dead in the desert, and they end with learning a whole lot more than just why these women choose a horrible dead.
It is a fast paced story with good characters and it can be read as a stand-alone. I read my first book by Douglas Preston in 2005 (!) and although I only read a handful of titles by him and/or Lincoln Child, I’m never disappointed. One day I hope to find the time to read more books in the Pendergast universe.
Thanks to Aria & Aries and Netgalley for this review copy.
Corrie and Nora and Nora’s brother Skip also end up with thinking about what’s real and what's not, but in a whole other way. They start with trying to find out why some successful and intelligent women end up dead in the desert, and they end with learning a whole lot more than just why these women choose a horrible dead.
It is a fast paced story with good characters and it can be read as a stand-alone. I read my first book by Douglas Preston in 2005 (!) and although I only read a handful of titles by him and/or Lincoln Child, I’m never disappointed. One day I hope to find the time to read more books in the Pendergast universe.
Thanks to Aria & Aries and Netgalley for this review copy.
June 4, 2025
I am definitely a fan of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child so I was very happy to see this book and grabbed it a quickly as I could. I have read many of their books and always enjoy them. I loved this one!
Description:
In the New Mexico badlands, the skeleton of a woman is found—and the case is assigned to FBI Agent Corrie Swanson. The victim walked into the desert, shedding clothes as she went, and died in agony of heatstroke and thirst. Two rare artifacts are found clutched in her bony hands—lightning stones used by the ancient Chaco people to summon the gods.
Is it suicide or… sacrifice?
Agent Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. When a second body is found—exactly like the other—the two realize the case runs deeper than they imagined. As Corrie and Nora pursue their investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves confronting a dark power that, disturbed from its long slumber, threatens to exact an unspeakable price.
My Thoughts:
It is obvious that a lot of research went into this book. This history of the Chaco people is fascinating and mysterious. The events happening in the book are steeped in history as well as archeology. The book is permeated with a sense of evil from the isolation and alienness of the terrain to the events occurring throughout the book. It is fast-paced, mysterious and suspenseful and kept me on edge and flipping the pages. I couldn't wait to read more and find out what was happening. Bodies were found in strange circumstances. Nothing seemed to fit. The investigator, Nora Kelly, was courageous and committed. She did an outstanding job in the investigation against all the odds. Dangerous is putting it mildly. Thriller lovers will eat this up!
Thanks to Grand Central Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
In the New Mexico badlands, the skeleton of a woman is found—and the case is assigned to FBI Agent Corrie Swanson. The victim walked into the desert, shedding clothes as she went, and died in agony of heatstroke and thirst. Two rare artifacts are found clutched in her bony hands—lightning stones used by the ancient Chaco people to summon the gods.
Is it suicide or… sacrifice?
Agent Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. When a second body is found—exactly like the other—the two realize the case runs deeper than they imagined. As Corrie and Nora pursue their investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves confronting a dark power that, disturbed from its long slumber, threatens to exact an unspeakable price.
My Thoughts:
It is obvious that a lot of research went into this book. This history of the Chaco people is fascinating and mysterious. The events happening in the book are steeped in history as well as archeology. The book is permeated with a sense of evil from the isolation and alienness of the terrain to the events occurring throughout the book. It is fast-paced, mysterious and suspenseful and kept me on edge and flipping the pages. I couldn't wait to read more and find out what was happening. Bodies were found in strange circumstances. Nothing seemed to fit. The investigator, Nora Kelly, was courageous and committed. She did an outstanding job in the investigation against all the odds. Dangerous is putting it mildly. Thriller lovers will eat this up!
Thanks to Grand Central Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy.
May 15, 2025
3 ½ Stars, rounded up.
Badlands asks: Can an Ancient Evil be Contained? The Brilliant New Thriller from the Bestselling Authors of the Agent Pendergast Series. FBI Special Agent Corrie Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. This case runs deeper than they imagined.
As Corrie and Nora pursue the investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves confronting a dark power that, disturbed from its long slumber, threatens to exact an unspeakable price.
A lot is going on in Badlands, and it felt much darker than the previous books in the series. It was also more graphic and gruesome than I like to read.
On the other hand, Badlands is suspenseful, vividly detailed, and fast paced!
Thank you, #GrandCentralPublishing, for providing this book for review and consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Badlands has an expected publication date of June 3, 2025.
Badlands asks: Can an Ancient Evil be Contained? The Brilliant New Thriller from the Bestselling Authors of the Agent Pendergast Series. FBI Special Agent Corrie Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. This case runs deeper than they imagined.
As Corrie and Nora pursue the investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves confronting a dark power that, disturbed from its long slumber, threatens to exact an unspeakable price.
A lot is going on in Badlands, and it felt much darker than the previous books in the series. It was also more graphic and gruesome than I like to read.
On the other hand, Badlands is suspenseful, vividly detailed, and fast paced!
Thank you, #GrandCentralPublishing, for providing this book for review and consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Badlands has an expected publication date of June 3, 2025.
May 31, 2025
Badlands is the latest of Preston & Child’s Nora Kelly novels and FBI agent Corrie Swanson, a forensics specialist, has become a fixture in these mysteries set in New Mexico. As this novel unfolds, the skeletal remains of a woman are discovered in the badlands area in the desert outside of Albuquerque by a movie crew flying a drone for scenic shots. Their call to police brings Corrie and her mentor, Agent Sharp as well as a field team to assess and manage what they find. What they find proves to be very strange, indicating a woman at some point walked out into the desert then slowly shed her clothes before likely dying of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Why? Was this suicide? Corrie asks for Nora’s assistance because of artifacts found with the skeleton. Nora’s expertise and work as an archaeologist has been very valuable and helpful in the past. Together, they are about to open up a case with roots in the distant past and links to an evil they have never encountered before.
Badlands is an exciting, fast paced story, filled with history that has been adapted somewhat by the authors. See the Author’s Note for information about the peoples and ideas written about in this novel. I enjoy reading mysteries that include archeology, Native American cultures and life, and variations on the themes. Badlands has everything I would want. I will give a warning for violence. This is an action novel and Preston & Child do not back away from details of violence when necessary to the plot. I do recommend this book.
Thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC of this book.
Badlands is an exciting, fast paced story, filled with history that has been adapted somewhat by the authors. See the Author’s Note for information about the peoples and ideas written about in this novel. I enjoy reading mysteries that include archeology, Native American cultures and life, and variations on the themes. Badlands has everything I would want. I will give a warning for violence. This is an action novel and Preston & Child do not back away from details of violence when necessary to the plot. I do recommend this book.
Thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC of this book.
July 1, 2025
A woman walks into the desert with no food or water, willingly perishing from exposure. The discovery of her remains by a film crew brings the FBI into the case, of course with Corrie Swanson assigned to the case. And of course her good friend, Nora Kelly, is drawn in by the presence of some fascinating archeological artifacts found with the remains. A series of bizarre deaths, and a riddle tied to the ancient New Mexican past soon have our heroines off on another adventure …
I have to admit that, when the first book of this series was published, I wasn't sure it would last. As far as I know, the FBI doesn't keep archeologists on staff, or consult with them on any sort of regular, predictable basis. So the idea that Corrie and Nora would be able to plausibly work multiple cases together seemed like a stretch. But here we are, five books in, and not one of them feels forced. I should have known better than to doubt the combined talents of Preston and Child.
Anyone who's read any of my previous reviews of their books knows what a fan I am. This current novel just reinforces that love. I read one review of Badlands where the reviewer apparently didn't enjoy the book at all. They mentioned “cardboard characters.” I don't see it myself, but I'll concede that I could be too far gone in fandom to even notice. They also mentioned “misandry,” which I don't see at all. Yes, there are dislikeable male characters in this book. There are also likeable ones. No examples were offered to support either charge, so whatever. Clearly they didn't like the book, and I rather uncharitably suspect they would accuse ANY book with a strong female protagonist of misandry.
Yes, this is book five of a series. But the books are reasonably well self-contained. The biggest spoiler is arguably the knowledge that our protagonists survived books 1-4 … Badlands is as decent a place to start reading as any.
I, for one, can't get enough of Preston & Child books, and this one is no exception. Highly recommended!
I have to admit that, when the first book of this series was published, I wasn't sure it would last. As far as I know, the FBI doesn't keep archeologists on staff, or consult with them on any sort of regular, predictable basis. So the idea that Corrie and Nora would be able to plausibly work multiple cases together seemed like a stretch. But here we are, five books in, and not one of them feels forced. I should have known better than to doubt the combined talents of Preston and Child.
Anyone who's read any of my previous reviews of their books knows what a fan I am. This current novel just reinforces that love. I read one review of Badlands where the reviewer apparently didn't enjoy the book at all. They mentioned “cardboard characters.” I don't see it myself, but I'll concede that I could be too far gone in fandom to even notice. They also mentioned “misandry,” which I don't see at all. Yes, there are dislikeable male characters in this book. There are also likeable ones. No examples were offered to support either charge, so whatever. Clearly they didn't like the book, and I rather uncharitably suspect they would accuse ANY book with a strong female protagonist of misandry.
Yes, this is book five of a series. But the books are reasonably well self-contained. The biggest spoiler is arguably the knowledge that our protagonists survived books 1-4 … Badlands is as decent a place to start reading as any.
I, for one, can't get enough of Preston & Child books, and this one is no exception. Highly recommended!
July 15, 2025
Good read
December 15, 2025
Almost 4.5/5.0, but not quite enough to round up. I continue to enjoy all of the Preston and Child novels. All of them have a good story along with great characters, all wrapped in a interesting mysteries. I hope these authors write many more of these!
June 16, 2025
It’s basically like the other Nora Kelly books. Skip gets himself in trouble. Something strange happens., and Nora saves Skip. Rinse and repeat.
May 20, 2025
As a reader of everything Preston and Child have written, I find myself a pretty tough, but knowledgeable, critic of their work. "Badlands" is a nice addition to the Nora Kelly series, but, in my humble opinion, falls somewhat short of the previous efforts, especially the last two books. The premise of the story is fine, revolving around mysterious deaths that have occurred in the desert of the Badlands, with authorities questioning the reasons behind the strange condition in which the bodies were found.
Bring on probationary FBI agent Corrie Swanson and archeologist Nora Kelly (plus Sheriff Homer Watts), who attempt to sort out the reasons for the strange deaths. As with the other books in the series, the ladies soon find out there is much, much more below what's on the surface as they move through their investigation. Other familiar characters (e.g., Skip Kelly and Agent Sharp) make their appearances, but this book comes up a little short in the category of memorable characters. Partly because of that and a less-than-riveting plot, this book seems too patterned and familiar. There is very little action in the first 60% of the book making the book a little tough to get through. Thankfully, in the last third of the story, the plot picks up momentum and heads in a couple of different directions, leading to a satisfying, if not expected, conclusion.
I don't want to pan the novel because it's a decent book. It's just that it feels too familiar and almost phoned in. I'm sure there are fans of the series that will think differently of "Badlands", but for this reader, I'm hoping P & C will up their game a little in Book 6.
I'd like to thank Net Galley, Grand Central Publishing, and the authors for providing me with an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bring on probationary FBI agent Corrie Swanson and archeologist Nora Kelly (plus Sheriff Homer Watts), who attempt to sort out the reasons for the strange deaths. As with the other books in the series, the ladies soon find out there is much, much more below what's on the surface as they move through their investigation. Other familiar characters (e.g., Skip Kelly and Agent Sharp) make their appearances, but this book comes up a little short in the category of memorable characters. Partly because of that and a less-than-riveting plot, this book seems too patterned and familiar. There is very little action in the first 60% of the book making the book a little tough to get through. Thankfully, in the last third of the story, the plot picks up momentum and heads in a couple of different directions, leading to a satisfying, if not expected, conclusion.
I don't want to pan the novel because it's a decent book. It's just that it feels too familiar and almost phoned in. I'm sure there are fans of the series that will think differently of "Badlands", but for this reader, I'm hoping P & C will up their game a little in Book 6.
I'd like to thank Net Galley, Grand Central Publishing, and the authors for providing me with an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2025
I liked it, but...
The plot was terrific. I loved the bits of history, the mystery of our deaths, and the truly spectacular way everything comes to a head in this one. As usual, the authors made me want to travel and explore and learn something new.
However, I sort of felt like Nora and Corrie seemed a little flat in this one.
I think part of my problem is that grown up Corrie is so much less interesting than when we first met her. She's lost so much of her edge and is almost earnest girl Friday in a way. And Nora seems like...generic woman #12 in this one. Very little of her personality shines through.
As I stated, I did like the book and I think it makes a fine entry in the series, but I hope the next book brings a bit more of the characteristics we love from our two MCs.
* ARC via Publisher
The plot was terrific. I loved the bits of history, the mystery of our deaths, and the truly spectacular way everything comes to a head in this one. As usual, the authors made me want to travel and explore and learn something new.
However, I sort of felt like Nora and Corrie seemed a little flat in this one.
I think part of my problem is that grown up Corrie is so much less interesting than when we first met her. She's lost so much of her edge and is almost earnest girl Friday in a way. And Nora seems like...generic woman #12 in this one. Very little of her personality shines through.
As I stated, I did like the book and I think it makes a fine entry in the series, but I hope the next book brings a bit more of the characteristics we love from our two MCs.
* ARC via Publisher
June 3, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and Grand Central for the pre-release copy of Badlands by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. Below is my honest review.
I'm a huge Preston & Child fan, and I really love Nora and Corrie. This one did NOT disappoint. In fact, it might be one of my favorites in the Pendergast world so far.
This one follows Corrie and Nora as they work together to investigate a five year old corpse found in the heat of the Badlands - the naked corpse of an adult woman, her clothes casually dropped one piece at a time as she wandered into the desert sands until she collapsed and cooked to death, leaving only a pair of Gallina tribal lightning stones in her hands.
As the two leads delve deeper into this odd almost ritualistic suicide, they find out that there is much, much more going on, and they are thrust into dangerous territory - both physically (the worst parts of the barren desert areas of New Mexico) and case-wise.
Highly recommend this one. Absolutely fantastic. One of their best!
This one could totally be read as a standalone, though it does connect back to the Pendergast series and the previous entries in this Corrie/Nora spinoff series. You'll enjoy it either way, but definitely suggest getting the most of out by reading ALL THE BOOKS! :)
I'm a huge Preston & Child fan, and I really love Nora and Corrie. This one did NOT disappoint. In fact, it might be one of my favorites in the Pendergast world so far.
This one follows Corrie and Nora as they work together to investigate a five year old corpse found in the heat of the Badlands - the naked corpse of an adult woman, her clothes casually dropped one piece at a time as she wandered into the desert sands until she collapsed and cooked to death, leaving only a pair of Gallina tribal lightning stones in her hands.
As the two leads delve deeper into this odd almost ritualistic suicide, they find out that there is much, much more going on, and they are thrust into dangerous territory - both physically (the worst parts of the barren desert areas of New Mexico) and case-wise.
Highly recommend this one. Absolutely fantastic. One of their best!
This one could totally be read as a standalone, though it does connect back to the Pendergast series and the previous entries in this Corrie/Nora spinoff series. You'll enjoy it either way, but definitely suggest getting the most of out by reading ALL THE BOOKS! :)
July 6, 2025
Another exciting thriller featuring FBI Agent Corrie Swanson and the archaeologist, Nora Kelly. The story is set in the New Mexico badlands, where two bodies are discovered, both clutching ancient and rare artifacts. This story is riveting and would make a terrific action movie script. Great summer read!
March 15, 2025
I have read over 35 books by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, counting both those written collectively and individually, so yes, you can consider me a fan. Their combination of history, geography, modern-day mystery, and even a touch of the supernatural usually make for a very interesting and thought-provoking read, with a little bit of learning thrown in. Archaeologist Nora Kelly and FBI Agent (in training) Corrie Swanson are back in their fifth standalone adventure, “Badlands”, set in the American southwest.
When a film crew working in the desert of New Mexico stumble across a body, Corrie Swanson (along with her mentor Agent Swift) is called in to investigate. The remains belong to a archeology student who disappeared 12 years ago, a woman who was very familiar with working in the desert yet died of thirst and exposure, shedding her clothes as she went along. She was also found with two rare artifacts known as lightning stones, the only other known pair belonging to a rich collector named Edison, with a somewhat loose moral collecting code of honor.
When it seems that this death could somehow be related to a group of doctoral students and their famous professor that were studying the Gallina people who were all massacred in the 1200’s, Corrie calls in Nora Kelly to help with the investigation. As a second body is found identical to the first by much more recent, the search for the missing professor and the remaining doctoral students gets more frantic. Can Corrie and Nora solve the mystery before other victims are claimed by the desert?
Lots of action and mystery, as usual, with quite a bit of history. It is also nice to see both Nora and Corrie growing as characters and with budding romances/personal lives. The only negative continues to be Skip, Nora’s goofy brother who always ignores protocols, common sense, and basic safety and gets into trouble that he shouldn’t have. It is ludicrous to believe that all of the scientific institutes and the FBI continue to put up with his antics, antics which have pretty directly led to agents’ deaths. Not sure if he’s meant as comic relief or just an interesting sidenote, but he has become too much of a distraction. Even in a thriller such as this, it is difficult to suspend disbelief when it comes to this idiot.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
When a film crew working in the desert of New Mexico stumble across a body, Corrie Swanson (along with her mentor Agent Swift) is called in to investigate. The remains belong to a archeology student who disappeared 12 years ago, a woman who was very familiar with working in the desert yet died of thirst and exposure, shedding her clothes as she went along. She was also found with two rare artifacts known as lightning stones, the only other known pair belonging to a rich collector named Edison, with a somewhat loose moral collecting code of honor.
When it seems that this death could somehow be related to a group of doctoral students and their famous professor that were studying the Gallina people who were all massacred in the 1200’s, Corrie calls in Nora Kelly to help with the investigation. As a second body is found identical to the first by much more recent, the search for the missing professor and the remaining doctoral students gets more frantic. Can Corrie and Nora solve the mystery before other victims are claimed by the desert?
Lots of action and mystery, as usual, with quite a bit of history. It is also nice to see both Nora and Corrie growing as characters and with budding romances/personal lives. The only negative continues to be Skip, Nora’s goofy brother who always ignores protocols, common sense, and basic safety and gets into trouble that he shouldn’t have. It is ludicrous to believe that all of the scientific institutes and the FBI continue to put up with his antics, antics which have pretty directly led to agents’ deaths. Not sure if he’s meant as comic relief or just an interesting sidenote, but he has become too much of a distraction. Even in a thriller such as this, it is difficult to suspend disbelief when it comes to this idiot.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
November 13, 2025
This review is for an ARC copy received from the publisher through NetGalley.
The skeletal remains of a woman who dies five years earlier are found in the New Mexico desert, someone who apparently walked out to die. In her hand is discovered two strange stones, similar to those associated with local Native American Tribes. FBi Agent Corrie Swanson is assigned to the case, and due the archaeological implications, calls in Nora Kelly for assistance. When they learn of a recent similar case of a woman dying the desert holding the same type of stones, patterns begin to form. Patterns that will lead them to ancient tribes and a cult practicing dark rituals. Before they know it, they're facing a dangerous situation like none they've experienced before.
This was another terrific entry in the Nora Kelly/Corrie Swanson series featuring some absolutely fascinating history and story telling. More grounded than Preston & Child's Pendergast series has become, it features the type of plot classic X-Files episodes would have. This series has become as good as the Pendergast one at its peak.
The skeletal remains of a woman who dies five years earlier are found in the New Mexico desert, someone who apparently walked out to die. In her hand is discovered two strange stones, similar to those associated with local Native American Tribes. FBi Agent Corrie Swanson is assigned to the case, and due the archaeological implications, calls in Nora Kelly for assistance. When they learn of a recent similar case of a woman dying the desert holding the same type of stones, patterns begin to form. Patterns that will lead them to ancient tribes and a cult practicing dark rituals. Before they know it, they're facing a dangerous situation like none they've experienced before.
This was another terrific entry in the Nora Kelly/Corrie Swanson series featuring some absolutely fascinating history and story telling. More grounded than Preston & Child's Pendergast series has become, it features the type of plot classic X-Files episodes would have. This series has become as good as the Pendergast one at its peak.
May 15, 2025
4.5 stars, very good. A bit different for this writing team as it includes fiction involving around American Indian Folklore, a favorite topic in this household as both my husband and I enjoy it. This is a Nora Kelley novel, the fifth in a series featuring her as an archeologist who is brought in to work with FBI Agent Corrie Swanson in the case of a woman found clutching some artifacts of interest when she dies of exposure in the New Mexico Badlands.
The novel holds your interest, combines history, mystery, fact and fiction very well while keeping the reader turning those pages.
Highly recommend for a unique and intriguing read.
My thanks for the e-arc from Grand Central Publishing, one of my favorites, via NetGalley for the pre-release read.
The novel holds your interest, combines history, mystery, fact and fiction very well while keeping the reader turning those pages.
Highly recommend for a unique and intriguing read.
My thanks for the e-arc from Grand Central Publishing, one of my favorites, via NetGalley for the pre-release read.
June 8, 2025
4.5 stars, actually.
Make no mistake: this is one of my favorite series, and even if it weren't, if I've ever passed up an opportunity to read anything written by either (or both) of these super-talented authors it was an accident. So why only four-and-a-half stars? Simply because the subject matter, while extremely interesting (I can't imagine the amount of research it must have taken to write the book) it crosses just a hair over the line of credibility for someone like me who is certain my late parents lied and I really was born in Missouri.
Still, except maybe for that one part that encompassed only a couple of pages, I loved it. And I'm pretty sure other fans of the series will love it as well. If nothing else, it once again brings together New Mexico FBI Agent Corrie Swanson and archaeologist Nora Kelly - both interesting yet very different characters. That happens following the discovery of a female skeleton in a remote section of the Navajo Nation badlands - a woman who appears to have been there all alone of her own volition. She'd inexplicably shed her clothing in the terrible desert heat, but she had with her a pair of extremely rare stones Knowing Nora likely would know more about them, Corrie solicits her advice; as it turns out, Nora is more than intrigued - and at that point, let the adventure begin.
Intrigued by the stones, Nora takes her younger brother Skip to meet Edison Nash, the wealthy dude who owns the two known stones. They take an immediate liking to one another - and bottles of expensive tequila - but Nora worries that Nash may have acquired some of his extensive collection of artifacts by not-so-legitimate means and could be a negative influence on Skip. While that's going on, Corrie's team identifies the woman's body and finds a connection to a local university professor and his loyal group of accolytes - most definitely worth checking out, especially since the professor seems to have disappeared. To confuse matters even more, yet another body is found in the badlands - another female who died under almost identical circumstances.
Many more strange discoveries later, everything comes crashing together as Skip and his new best bud go missing and Nora and Corrie head out to find them. Needless to say, everything from that point on I read from the edge of my seat - until I lugged my Kindle to bed just because I wasn't about to wait till morning to finish and that seat edge was getting uncomfortable. It was definitely worth the loss of a little sleep, though, and I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to tag along on this latest ride. I'm ready for next adventure, in fact, so bring it on soon, please!
Make no mistake: this is one of my favorite series, and even if it weren't, if I've ever passed up an opportunity to read anything written by either (or both) of these super-talented authors it was an accident. So why only four-and-a-half stars? Simply because the subject matter, while extremely interesting (I can't imagine the amount of research it must have taken to write the book) it crosses just a hair over the line of credibility for someone like me who is certain my late parents lied and I really was born in Missouri.
Still, except maybe for that one part that encompassed only a couple of pages, I loved it. And I'm pretty sure other fans of the series will love it as well. If nothing else, it once again brings together New Mexico FBI Agent Corrie Swanson and archaeologist Nora Kelly - both interesting yet very different characters. That happens following the discovery of a female skeleton in a remote section of the Navajo Nation badlands - a woman who appears to have been there all alone of her own volition. She'd inexplicably shed her clothing in the terrible desert heat, but she had with her a pair of extremely rare stones Knowing Nora likely would know more about them, Corrie solicits her advice; as it turns out, Nora is more than intrigued - and at that point, let the adventure begin.
Intrigued by the stones, Nora takes her younger brother Skip to meet Edison Nash, the wealthy dude who owns the two known stones. They take an immediate liking to one another - and bottles of expensive tequila - but Nora worries that Nash may have acquired some of his extensive collection of artifacts by not-so-legitimate means and could be a negative influence on Skip. While that's going on, Corrie's team identifies the woman's body and finds a connection to a local university professor and his loyal group of accolytes - most definitely worth checking out, especially since the professor seems to have disappeared. To confuse matters even more, yet another body is found in the badlands - another female who died under almost identical circumstances.
Many more strange discoveries later, everything comes crashing together as Skip and his new best bud go missing and Nora and Corrie head out to find them. Needless to say, everything from that point on I read from the edge of my seat - until I lugged my Kindle to bed just because I wasn't about to wait till morning to finish and that seat edge was getting uncomfortable. It was definitely worth the loss of a little sleep, though, and I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to tag along on this latest ride. I'm ready for next adventure, in fact, so bring it on soon, please!
May 2, 2025
I will never not be a fan of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child’s thrillers. While I love their main series about Agent Pendergast, Nora Kelly will always have a special place in my heart. The first book I read by this duo was The Book of the Dead (yes, I’m aware I started smack dab in the middle of the series), where Nora was a main character and it explored all things archaeology, ancient Egypt, and museum curation - all things that led me to my career!
This story has all my favorite thriller necessities - a curious case, suspicion, tension, and a life or death situation! I continue to love the Nora/Corrie pairing and getting to see how history and archaeology inform so much FBI detective work. I can’t wait to see what our duo gets up to next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This story has all my favorite thriller necessities - a curious case, suspicion, tension, and a life or death situation! I continue to love the Nora/Corrie pairing and getting to see how history and archaeology inform so much FBI detective work. I can’t wait to see what our duo gets up to next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2025
I had preordered the book and thus looked forward to it. However, I had it on audio and the story never managed to engage me very much at any point. The two main characters Nora the archeologist and Cora/Corey/Corinne are so alike that I struggle to keep them
apart. One, Nora I think, has a brother Skip that always gets into trouble.
In this case a body is found in the desert, naked, with no gear and holding lighting stones in her hands. Another is discovered and then a live victim that won’t speak. All highly educated women that trace their waywardness to a university and then to a cult or cult reader. Yes, naturally everyone gets into trouble.
apart. One, Nora I think, has a brother Skip that always gets into trouble.
In this case a body is found in the desert, naked, with no gear and holding lighting stones in her hands. Another is discovered and then a live victim that won’t speak. All highly educated women that trace their waywardness to a university and then to a cult or cult reader. Yes, naturally everyone gets into trouble.
February 17, 2025
I’d like to thank edelweiss and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, Nora and Corrie are back and in New Mexico after a woman is found in the desert deceased. How did she get there, who is she and what are the two small lightning stones found near the body, do they mean anything? From the deserts of New Mexico and Mexico, we follow Nora and Corrie to find out what is going on. Are these people found deceased in the desert related, along with ancient rituals and cults, this was an interesting read.
November 25, 2025
Het Woeste land van Preston & Child is alweer het vijfde deel in de Nora Kelly serie. Dit is een leuke, spannende serie, maar - spoiler alert - dit was niet het beste deel.
FBI-agent Corrie Swanson is in de Badlands van New Mexico voor de vondst van een skelet. De vrouw is schijnbaar zelfstandig haar dood tegemoet gelopen in de bloedhete woestijn, daarbij haar kleren achterlatend. In haar handen vindt ze twee zeldzame artefacten van het oude Chaco-volk. Om te beoordelen of het om zelfmoord gaat of iets ergers, schakelt Corrie de hulp in van archeologe Nora Kelly. Maar als er een tweede lichaam wordt gevonden, precies zoals de eerste, neemt de zaak een onverwachte wending. Er verbergt zich iets duisters in de canyons en spookachtige ruïnes van dit slechte land.
De setting is zoals gebruikelijk in het zuidwesten van Amerika. De droge, bloedhete woestijn vol met canyons en overblijfselen van oude volkeren is een geweldig decor voor archeologe Nora Kelly. Voeg daar nog een snufje moordzaak aan toe en je hebt het perfecte ingrediënt voor een spannend verhaal. De setting, de hoofdpersonen en de schrijfstijl is een heerlijk weerzien met oude bekenden. Dat gezegd hebbende, je hoeft niet persé eerdere delen gelezen te hebben, maar voor de personage ontwikkeling zou ik het wel aanraden.
Wat jammer is, is dat het verhaal voor een groot deel wat voortkabbelt en oppervlakkig blijft. Het is wel interessant, maar niet heel spannend. Pas ruim in de tweede helft van het boek neemt de vaart en spanning toe en blijf je geboeid doorlezen. Het plot is goed gevonden en helemaal in de stijl van de auteurs.
Dit is dus niet het beste deel, maar een volgend deel zal ik weer met veel enthousiasme oppakken!
FBI-agent Corrie Swanson is in de Badlands van New Mexico voor de vondst van een skelet. De vrouw is schijnbaar zelfstandig haar dood tegemoet gelopen in de bloedhete woestijn, daarbij haar kleren achterlatend. In haar handen vindt ze twee zeldzame artefacten van het oude Chaco-volk. Om te beoordelen of het om zelfmoord gaat of iets ergers, schakelt Corrie de hulp in van archeologe Nora Kelly. Maar als er een tweede lichaam wordt gevonden, precies zoals de eerste, neemt de zaak een onverwachte wending. Er verbergt zich iets duisters in de canyons en spookachtige ruïnes van dit slechte land.
De setting is zoals gebruikelijk in het zuidwesten van Amerika. De droge, bloedhete woestijn vol met canyons en overblijfselen van oude volkeren is een geweldig decor voor archeologe Nora Kelly. Voeg daar nog een snufje moordzaak aan toe en je hebt het perfecte ingrediënt voor een spannend verhaal. De setting, de hoofdpersonen en de schrijfstijl is een heerlijk weerzien met oude bekenden. Dat gezegd hebbende, je hoeft niet persé eerdere delen gelezen te hebben, maar voor de personage ontwikkeling zou ik het wel aanraden.
Wat jammer is, is dat het verhaal voor een groot deel wat voortkabbelt en oppervlakkig blijft. Het is wel interessant, maar niet heel spannend. Pas ruim in de tweede helft van het boek neemt de vaart en spanning toe en blijf je geboeid doorlezen. Het plot is goed gevonden en helemaal in de stijl van de auteurs.
Dit is dus niet het beste deel, maar een volgend deel zal ik weer met veel enthousiasme oppakken!
June 18, 2025
This is the fifth book in the Nora Kelly/Corrie Swanson series by Preston & Child. Corrie is a young FBI agent who is assigned to a case where a skeleton is found of a woman who apparently walked into the desert of the New Mexico badlands, stripped off her clothing, and then died of heat stroke. Why would anyone do this? Was it a suicide or was something else behind it? Among her remains were two rare lightning stones which were used by the ancient Chaco people to summon their gods. Corrie brings in her friend Nora Kelly, an archaeologist, to help investigate. The victim had been in the desert for five years but then another body is found under the same circumstances so how are they related? Is it the work of a cult? The focus of the investigation leads to a former professor named Oskarbi who had researched and written a book on a group of Native Americans, the Gallina, who vanished prior to the arrival of Europeans in America. But how and why did they vanish and could their practices to summon evil spirits still be used by the followers of Oskarbi. But Oskarbi supposedly returned to Mexico 14 years ago and hadn't been heard from since. So can Corrie and Nora get to the bottom of the mystery?
I enjoyed this one as much as the previous novels in this series. The last hundred pages or so was really compelling leading to a rather bizarre ending. Nora's brother Skip also played a role in the novel and as usual gets in over his head when he goes treasure hunting for artifacts in Gallina Canyon with a rich collector. This book also provided some very interesting historical information on the ancient people of Chaco Canyon formerly called the Anasazi which means "ancient enemy" or "ancient stranger" in Navajo. The current more respectful term is Ancestral Puebloans. I'll be looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it comes out and I still need to catch up on Preston & Childs' Pendergast series. So much to read!
I enjoyed this one as much as the previous novels in this series. The last hundred pages or so was really compelling leading to a rather bizarre ending. Nora's brother Skip also played a role in the novel and as usual gets in over his head when he goes treasure hunting for artifacts in Gallina Canyon with a rich collector. This book also provided some very interesting historical information on the ancient people of Chaco Canyon formerly called the Anasazi which means "ancient enemy" or "ancient stranger" in Navajo. The current more respectful term is Ancestral Puebloans. I'll be looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it comes out and I still need to catch up on Preston & Childs' Pendergast series. So much to read!
March 1, 2025
This is Nora Kelly #5, albeit it should really sort of be Nora Kelly/Corrie Swanson #5 since the archeologist/FBI agent duo have been together for all five books (both of them have been in other books tangentially connected to the Pendergast series — only one mention of the NYC rogue agent as a mutual friend occurs). It’s a fascinating series with two very strong female leads who investigate independently and then usually combine their knowledge to solve the central mystery.
In this case, there’s the discovery of a body — a young woman connected to archeological academia who apparently just walked out into the blazing desert totally unprepared (although she should have known better) and stripping off all her clothes along the way. Her body is found with a pair of extremely rare green lightning stones, sacred Indigenous artifacts. There’s a mysterious billionaire who owns the only other known green colored lightning stones, and then there’s a second body that seems to have died under the same circumstances.
Preston & Child are masters of creating an atmospherically disparate, bleak, and remote landscape of hoodoo labyrinths surrounding the bodies, which adds to the challenges faced by both Corrie and Nora as they investigate. The authors also celebrate the new and elaborate technology available to forensics, which makes the reader feel like they have insider knowledge. There’s also a lot of historical significance regarding the Indigenous people of New Mexico that mixes in with the central mystery/crime.
This is still an action filled thriller that has your pulse pounding through the last nearly unbelievable chapters. Nora and Corrie complement each other and having Nora’s brother Skip and Corrie’s very close friend, Sheriff Watts, in the story, reminded me that I want this series to continue for a long time.
It’s not necessary to read the previous books in the series, but if you love this one (as I do), you’ll be delighted by the others. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES A mysterious dehydrated woman has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Preston & Child accurately describe the New Mexico desert.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
In this case, there’s the discovery of a body — a young woman connected to archeological academia who apparently just walked out into the blazing desert totally unprepared (although she should have known better) and stripping off all her clothes along the way. Her body is found with a pair of extremely rare green lightning stones, sacred Indigenous artifacts. There’s a mysterious billionaire who owns the only other known green colored lightning stones, and then there’s a second body that seems to have died under the same circumstances.
Preston & Child are masters of creating an atmospherically disparate, bleak, and remote landscape of hoodoo labyrinths surrounding the bodies, which adds to the challenges faced by both Corrie and Nora as they investigate. The authors also celebrate the new and elaborate technology available to forensics, which makes the reader feel like they have insider knowledge. There’s also a lot of historical significance regarding the Indigenous people of New Mexico that mixes in with the central mystery/crime.
This is still an action filled thriller that has your pulse pounding through the last nearly unbelievable chapters. Nora and Corrie complement each other and having Nora’s brother Skip and Corrie’s very close friend, Sheriff Watts, in the story, reminded me that I want this series to continue for a long time.
It’s not necessary to read the previous books in the series, but if you love this one (as I do), you’ll be delighted by the others. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES A mysterious dehydrated woman has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Preston & Child accurately describe the New Mexico desert.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
April 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an Earc of this book!
BADLANDS, by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child is book five in the Nora Kelly/Corrie Swanson series. (I added Corrie in because she's as much as part of them as Nora). Although this branch off from the Pendergast series is considered book five, it can be read as a standalone. I have read virtually every novel by these authors, and while a couple names were mentioned in passing, no prior knowledge is really needed to enjoy this book.
FBI Agent Corrie Swanson is called in when a production company comes across the remains of a body in the New Mexico desert. A woman who died years before, shedding her clothes as she died of exposure and dehydration. The fact that made this stand out more so was that she had two extremely rare lightning stones in her possession. Was it a ritual sacrifice, or suicide?
Corrie calls in Nora Kelly to help on this case. I love how both of these characters have grown, and feel that they both make very strong leads in these novels. As with any Preston/Child novel, a lot of history is gone over--which makes the story even more gripping because of reality added in--and the writing style is fast and fluid. This book doesn't lag--with maybe a couple exceptions when it came to discussing the technicalities of AI computer advancement--however, that is likely just an "I'm not as interested in it" assessment.
When a second body is found--just like the first, only more recent--the reasoning starts to turn to a program overseen by a charismatic professor, the possibility of a cult, and bordering on speculation of the supernatural. The last quarter of the book was simply NOT a place you want to pause, as the revelations and twists are coming at you from every angle.
Overall, another incredible novel from two authors I find consistently "above average" in all of their solo and collective writing endeavors.
Recommended.
BADLANDS, by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child is book five in the Nora Kelly/Corrie Swanson series. (I added Corrie in because she's as much as part of them as Nora). Although this branch off from the Pendergast series is considered book five, it can be read as a standalone. I have read virtually every novel by these authors, and while a couple names were mentioned in passing, no prior knowledge is really needed to enjoy this book.
FBI Agent Corrie Swanson is called in when a production company comes across the remains of a body in the New Mexico desert. A woman who died years before, shedding her clothes as she died of exposure and dehydration. The fact that made this stand out more so was that she had two extremely rare lightning stones in her possession. Was it a ritual sacrifice, or suicide?
Corrie calls in Nora Kelly to help on this case. I love how both of these characters have grown, and feel that they both make very strong leads in these novels. As with any Preston/Child novel, a lot of history is gone over--which makes the story even more gripping because of reality added in--and the writing style is fast and fluid. This book doesn't lag--with maybe a couple exceptions when it came to discussing the technicalities of AI computer advancement--however, that is likely just an "I'm not as interested in it" assessment.
When a second body is found--just like the first, only more recent--the reasoning starts to turn to a program overseen by a charismatic professor, the possibility of a cult, and bordering on speculation of the supernatural. The last quarter of the book was simply NOT a place you want to pause, as the revelations and twists are coming at you from every angle.
Overall, another incredible novel from two authors I find consistently "above average" in all of their solo and collective writing endeavors.
Recommended.
June 10, 2025
I’ve read every Preston/Childs book ever written. I am a huge fan, but this particular book is ridiculous crap. It doesn’t deserve further comment.
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