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Watermelon Snow
A climate scientist uncovers a long-held secret, triggering a series of tragic events that threaten her research, her career—and the lives of everyone around her.
Deep within the melting Blue Glacier in the Washington wilderness, climate scientist Dr. Kate Landry makes a remarkable discovery. Determined to conceal it from colleagues eager to steal her work, she must somehow distract the behavioral scientist NASA sends to study her team.
From the moment he sets foot on the ice, Dr. Grant Poole finds himself in a strange world of unexpected beauty but fraught with extreme dangers he has tried his whole life to avoid. Greeted with suspicion, he soon realizes Kate is hiding something.
When a mysterious illness strikes her crew and an intense storm engulfs their tiny research station, Kate can no longer shield the truth from Grant. Thrown together in a struggle to survive, they are trapped between keeping Kate's secret and protecting the lives of thousands, even millions.
Time is running out. Can they find a way to save everyone and still preserve Kate's discovery?
Deep within the melting Blue Glacier in the Washington wilderness, climate scientist Dr. Kate Landry makes a remarkable discovery. Determined to conceal it from colleagues eager to steal her work, she must somehow distract the behavioral scientist NASA sends to study her team.
From the moment he sets foot on the ice, Dr. Grant Poole finds himself in a strange world of unexpected beauty but fraught with extreme dangers he has tried his whole life to avoid. Greeted with suspicion, he soon realizes Kate is hiding something.
When a mysterious illness strikes her crew and an intense storm engulfs their tiny research station, Kate can no longer shield the truth from Grant. Thrown together in a struggle to survive, they are trapped between keeping Kate's secret and protecting the lives of thousands, even millions.
Time is running out. Can they find a way to save everyone and still preserve Kate's discovery?
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2017
600 people are currently reading
7122 people want to read
About the author
William A. Liggett
3 books243 followersBill Liggett writes fiction that blends behavioral and earth sciences in the new cli-fi (climate fiction) literary genre. His goal is to paint a hopeful future, based on solutions to global warming. He holds a BS in geology and an MA in education, both from Stanford University, and a PhD in applied social psychology from New York University. Among the many positions he has held over the years, he taught in high school and college, conducted behavioral science studies for IBM, and consulted with health care and educational organizations. Wherever he lives, he loves being outdoors. Home for him has included the West Coast, East Coast, Alaska, and now Colorado, the state of his childhood. He and his wife, Cathy, live in Niwot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
August 2, 2018
Watermelon Snow by William A Ligget is 2017 Sandra Jonas Publishing publication.
Tense, white-knuckled suspense-
Kate, a scientist, working inside the Blue Glacier located in the Washington wilderness, makes an incredible discovery, but must leave it behind for a while due to dangerous conditions. Just when she has the green light to return, she and her team are annoyed at having to put up with Grant Poole, who will be observing the team as they work.
Kate is furious when she learns of this stipulation. She doesn’t trust Grant, so she must keep her discovery a secret from him at all costs.
Grant accepts this mission, even though he is terrified, because his lack of an adventurous nature may have cost him the love of his life. But, once he arrives and meets the team, he gets a lot more adventure than he ever bargained for.
Unfortunately, the mission goes horribly awry when several people in Kate’s crew become violently ill with a dangerous strain of the flu. If Kate keeps her discovery a secret a possible pandemic might erupt which could cost thousands of people their lives. But, if she reveals her find, she will lose everything she has worked for.
Kate must make a moral decision and quick, but she is desperate to find a solution that will save many lives, but might also save her career, as well.
As much as I read, and as open as I usually am about trying various genres, and as knowledgeable as I would like to think I am about all the ever- increasing number of sub-genres out there, I suppose this “Environmental Thriller” or better yet- ‘Cli-fi’ thriller category escaped my notice.
Yes, I’ve read books written by Robin Cook and a few by Michael Crichton, and I see where those comparisons might come into play. But, this book centers a little more around environmental issues that are the direct result of climate change.
I suppose it was bound to happen. Someone with a wicked imagination takes the commonly associated concerns and fears about the consequences of climate change, one step further, by suggesting that there are possible repercussions we never even considered.
I think it is worth noting that while the author does mention climate change, this book is not a lecture on the subject. For all intents and purposes, this is a taut thriller, and could technically come down in the medical thriller category, as well. But, it is also a nail- biting adventure, and even has a small romantic element tossed in for good measure.
The story is thought provoking, with brisk pacing that kept me turning pages, and tuned into events as they unfolded. The convergence of various people onto the scene, all with their own agendas, felt very authentic. The dialogue was realistic, but the weak spot in the story is with the characterizations.
Kate is not especially warm, and her actions often left me feeling conflicted. Grant on the other hand has a moral compass and added much needed balance in a story chock full of ambitious scientists.
This story is very different from anything I’ve been reading recently, and was a very nice change of pace. My first official ‘cli -fi’ novel is a very solid, action packed thrill ride I really did enjoy!
4 stars
Tense, white-knuckled suspense-
Kate, a scientist, working inside the Blue Glacier located in the Washington wilderness, makes an incredible discovery, but must leave it behind for a while due to dangerous conditions. Just when she has the green light to return, she and her team are annoyed at having to put up with Grant Poole, who will be observing the team as they work.
Kate is furious when she learns of this stipulation. She doesn’t trust Grant, so she must keep her discovery a secret from him at all costs.
Grant accepts this mission, even though he is terrified, because his lack of an adventurous nature may have cost him the love of his life. But, once he arrives and meets the team, he gets a lot more adventure than he ever bargained for.
Unfortunately, the mission goes horribly awry when several people in Kate’s crew become violently ill with a dangerous strain of the flu. If Kate keeps her discovery a secret a possible pandemic might erupt which could cost thousands of people their lives. But, if she reveals her find, she will lose everything she has worked for.
Kate must make a moral decision and quick, but she is desperate to find a solution that will save many lives, but might also save her career, as well.
As much as I read, and as open as I usually am about trying various genres, and as knowledgeable as I would like to think I am about all the ever- increasing number of sub-genres out there, I suppose this “Environmental Thriller” or better yet- ‘Cli-fi’ thriller category escaped my notice.
Yes, I’ve read books written by Robin Cook and a few by Michael Crichton, and I see where those comparisons might come into play. But, this book centers a little more around environmental issues that are the direct result of climate change.
I suppose it was bound to happen. Someone with a wicked imagination takes the commonly associated concerns and fears about the consequences of climate change, one step further, by suggesting that there are possible repercussions we never even considered.
I think it is worth noting that while the author does mention climate change, this book is not a lecture on the subject. For all intents and purposes, this is a taut thriller, and could technically come down in the medical thriller category, as well. But, it is also a nail- biting adventure, and even has a small romantic element tossed in for good measure.
The story is thought provoking, with brisk pacing that kept me turning pages, and tuned into events as they unfolded. The convergence of various people onto the scene, all with their own agendas, felt very authentic. The dialogue was realistic, but the weak spot in the story is with the characterizations.
Kate is not especially warm, and her actions often left me feeling conflicted. Grant on the other hand has a moral compass and added much needed balance in a story chock full of ambitious scientists.
This story is very different from anything I’ve been reading recently, and was a very nice change of pace. My first official ‘cli -fi’ novel is a very solid, action packed thrill ride I really did enjoy!
4 stars
September 16, 2018
Very very good and suspenseful environmental thriller. This story is well-written and has a little bit of everything to appeal to most horror and dark mystery enthusiasts. Many unexpected surprises that will have you on the edge of your seat with many tense moments of feelings of apprehension tingling your spine. Nice, helpful amount of scientific research data yet written for the average layman to understand which makes the book comprehensive and believable.
I highly recommend this book to those readers who would enjoy reading a very unique and creative book!
I have given this book 4 Icy 🌟🌟🌟🌟 stars
I highly recommend this book to those readers who would enjoy reading a very unique and creative book!
I have given this book 4 Icy 🌟🌟🌟🌟 stars
January 1, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! It was my first climate-based thriller and I was not disappointed. This book read at a great pace, but was different than my normal action thrillers I usually read. The suspense the author creates with the events in the book drives the pace of the read. I could not put this book down; just when I thought it was a good place to take a break, BAM, more suspense and I had to keep reading. I really hope there is a sequel! Great work William!
June 20, 2017
Deep on the melting Blue glacier in the Washington wilderness, climate scientist Dr. Kate Landry makes a remarkable discovery. When people on her team begin to die from a mystery illness, Kate is in a race against time to save her discovery and the lives of millions.
Pretty enthralling adventure! Learned a little bit about melting glaciers and climate change without the story ever becoming too preachy. Did a good job of just stating some facts. The overall story was face paced and kept the tension high. Kate wasn't super likable but other characters were.
The one big annoyance I had with the book was the title! It gave away the answer to a big reveal at the end. If the title had been different, the reveal would have been more shocking.
I would read other books by this author.
Pretty enthralling adventure! Learned a little bit about melting glaciers and climate change without the story ever becoming too preachy. Did a good job of just stating some facts. The overall story was face paced and kept the tension high. Kate wasn't super likable but other characters were.
The one big annoyance I had with the book was the title! It gave away the answer to a big reveal at the end. If the title had been different, the reveal would have been more shocking.
I would read other books by this author.
June 6, 2019
Climate scientist Dr. Kate Landry and her research partner, Frank, have made an unusual discovery in a glacial ice pack in the state of Washington. They seek to keep it under wraps until they can “get credit” for it. NASA scientist Dr. Grant Poole is joining the team this season to observe Landry’s leadership skills, with a goal of helping teams in the space program. While Landry’s team is conducting research, several team members contract a mysterious illness, leading to a series of life-threatening events.
This book purports to be about climate change and a small portion of the first part of the book sets out in that direction. Unfortunately, it quickly becomes an over-the-top mystery-thriller with an outlandish plot, unbelievable twists, flat characters, melodrama, and so-called serious scientists acting like children. It is filled with awkward prose and clunky dialogue intended to provide “info dumps” to the reader. The plot holes are glaring. Apparently, a complete novice can traverse a glacier with no previous experience other than a quick lesson on how to arrest a fall with an ice axe. A romance is thrown in, which seems contrived and unnecessary. Landry is supposed to be a respected scientist, but she acts like a selfish child. Poole is there to study Landry’s leadership abilities, but none were in evidence. Suffice it to say this is a well-meaning attempt at bringing attention to the issue of global warming that has gone terribly astray in the execution.
This book purports to be about climate change and a small portion of the first part of the book sets out in that direction. Unfortunately, it quickly becomes an over-the-top mystery-thriller with an outlandish plot, unbelievable twists, flat characters, melodrama, and so-called serious scientists acting like children. It is filled with awkward prose and clunky dialogue intended to provide “info dumps” to the reader. The plot holes are glaring. Apparently, a complete novice can traverse a glacier with no previous experience other than a quick lesson on how to arrest a fall with an ice axe. A romance is thrown in, which seems contrived and unnecessary. Landry is supposed to be a respected scientist, but she acts like a selfish child. Poole is there to study Landry’s leadership abilities, but none were in evidence. Suffice it to say this is a well-meaning attempt at bringing attention to the issue of global warming that has gone terribly astray in the execution.
September 9, 2017
Watermelon Snow is an interesting adventure story about a science team doing research on a glacier in Olympic National Park in Washington state. The backdrop for the story are real places. I was able to look at a Park map and follow along the places described in the story. Even the red algae in which the title of the book is derived also exists.
The book is well written for the most part. The characters are kind of shallow and the tension is somewhat contrived. The plot twists are fairly predictable but still fun to read.
The main character, Kate, is pretty well written as a tough strong willed scientist. She puts many of the male characters to shame. There is a weak romantic interest that could have been better exploited and is not. I think it is there to show Kate's "vulnerable feminine side."
I have to admit my review is somewhat influenced by a gritty Steven King book that I just finished (Under the Dome ). Watermelon Snow is pretty tepid in comparison. Nonetheless, the book is a quick read and the author did have me turning the pages. The story moves along at a good pace and never really bogs down. The science aspects of the story are also very interesting and realistic. I really enjoyed the book and recommend the book to those who enjoy a modern day eco-thriller/adventure.
The book is well written for the most part. The characters are kind of shallow and the tension is somewhat contrived. The plot twists are fairly predictable but still fun to read.
The main character, Kate, is pretty well written as a tough strong willed scientist. She puts many of the male characters to shame. There is a weak romantic interest that could have been better exploited and is not. I think it is there to show Kate's "vulnerable feminine side."
I have to admit my review is somewhat influenced by a gritty Steven King book that I just finished (Under the Dome ). Watermelon Snow is pretty tepid in comparison. Nonetheless, the book is a quick read and the author did have me turning the pages. The story moves along at a good pace and never really bogs down. The science aspects of the story are also very interesting and realistic. I really enjoyed the book and recommend the book to those who enjoy a modern day eco-thriller/adventure.
July 4, 2017
A Can't Put It Down Book!
This is one of those " I'll just read one more chapter, then I'll go to bed" books. Unique twist to an ecology story. Join the cast on the ice and read on. It's a great story . You might even think about what's happening to the earth when you're done. What IS behind the ice wall?????
This is one of those " I'll just read one more chapter, then I'll go to bed" books. Unique twist to an ecology story. Join the cast on the ice and read on. It's a great story . You might even think about what's happening to the earth when you're done. What IS behind the ice wall?????
July 23, 2017
A fascinating story with unexpected twists and turns. I enjoyed this one so much. Liggett manages to weave a story around climate change that makes the issue come to life with the concern of the characters involved. It begs for a sequel to see what they will do next.
January 26, 2019
Normally I would not have picked up a book such as “Watermelon Snow”, but I did because I received a free copy, and oh boy am I happy that I read this! This is William A. Liggett first and only book, which is a shame, for he is an excellent [scientific] writer—he helped me understand certain terminology and what was going on, while holding my interest. However, I was far more interested in the first half of the book than I was the second, mainly due to the unsettling suspension of the mysterious illness that Dr. Kate Landry’ team caught. A few other things that I bothered me were Dr. Landry’s attitude—she was willing to risk everybody’s life just so she could further her career—and the “spark of love” that happened between Dr. Landry and Dr. Grant Poole after just having known each other for less than a week. Overall, this was a very well written piece, and I recommend it for anyone who is interested in creative science, disasters, or is a fan of the author Michael Crichton. I give “Watermelon Snow” 4 stars.
November 15, 2017
Wow! I really didn't know what I've gotten into it. I expected some heavy climate story and a darker book but this was surprisingly great!
And heck I couldn't put it down! I always told myself before sleep I will read 2 chapters and go to sleep - LOL biggest lie! It was intriguing and the characters are very well written!
It's also great that it's about a real location - such fun googling all the places and seeing fantastic pictures!
And heck I couldn't put it down! I always told myself before sleep I will read 2 chapters and go to sleep - LOL biggest lie! It was intriguing and the characters are very well written!
It's also great that it's about a real location - such fun googling all the places and seeing fantastic pictures!
June 14, 2017
Riveting
I couldn't put this down. I read it in one afternoon and evening. The plot was intriguing and the characters well written.
I couldn't put this down. I read it in one afternoon and evening. The plot was intriguing and the characters well written.
September 4, 2017
Fascinating story of ambition, courage, climate science and human conflict in the mountains of the U.S. Northwest.
November 14, 2017
One of the most exciting and imaginative sci-fi novels I’ve read this year is “Watermelon Snow” set on the Snow Dome of Blue Glacier in Washington’s Olympic National Park. It opens when Dr. Kate Landry whose research funding is on the verge of being cut makes a remarkable discovery in an unsafe tunnel of ice. Needing the exposure that her find will bring Kate’s determined to keep it secret even from the behavioral scientist, Dr. Grant Poole who’s been sent by NASA to study her team’s cohesiveness in the field.
Well-written and captivating the plot heats up when three of her team are struck by a virulent illness just as an intense storm is about to hit the research station. With lives at stake their pilot agrees to fly two of her crew to the hospital just as the weather deteriorates and the third’s feared dead. Unable to remain in the station Kate and Grant strike out for a Ranger Station; a trek that will have them fighting the elements, ice chunks, falling rocks, hypothermia and a climb over a vertical wall. The action never stops as the author builds intensity and suspense especially when Kate keeps a secret about her discovery that could affect the lives of thousands.
With every twist and turn as personalities clash and the threat to her discovery increases, the tension escalates. This is a sci-fi thrill ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat and doesn’t let go. Yet through all the danger Kate and Grant begin to reveal their innermost fears and hopes, drawing closer, each learning to depend on the other.
Professor Kate Landry at thirty-five has buried herself in her research having failed at dating, and having a poor relationship with her father. Lonely but bulldozing through everything, she’s defensive, unpredictable and secretive. Yet as the story progresses her strength, caring and concern shine through. Dr. Grant Poole the behavioral scientist haunted by a failure in his past and avoiding any outdoor adventure learns quickly about survival. His quiet strength, amiability, steady resolve and dependability Kate not only relies on during their trek but when faced with those that want to destroy her discovery. It is these two complex, realistic and unforgettable characters along with a host of others that bring this intoxicating story to life.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Watermelon Snow” with an intriguing plot that moves quickly and smoothly to an ending that’s as exciting as it is surprising. I rate it highly and hope to read more novels by William A. Liggett in future.
Well-written and captivating the plot heats up when three of her team are struck by a virulent illness just as an intense storm is about to hit the research station. With lives at stake their pilot agrees to fly two of her crew to the hospital just as the weather deteriorates and the third’s feared dead. Unable to remain in the station Kate and Grant strike out for a Ranger Station; a trek that will have them fighting the elements, ice chunks, falling rocks, hypothermia and a climb over a vertical wall. The action never stops as the author builds intensity and suspense especially when Kate keeps a secret about her discovery that could affect the lives of thousands.
With every twist and turn as personalities clash and the threat to her discovery increases, the tension escalates. This is a sci-fi thrill ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat and doesn’t let go. Yet through all the danger Kate and Grant begin to reveal their innermost fears and hopes, drawing closer, each learning to depend on the other.
Professor Kate Landry at thirty-five has buried herself in her research having failed at dating, and having a poor relationship with her father. Lonely but bulldozing through everything, she’s defensive, unpredictable and secretive. Yet as the story progresses her strength, caring and concern shine through. Dr. Grant Poole the behavioral scientist haunted by a failure in his past and avoiding any outdoor adventure learns quickly about survival. His quiet strength, amiability, steady resolve and dependability Kate not only relies on during their trek but when faced with those that want to destroy her discovery. It is these two complex, realistic and unforgettable characters along with a host of others that bring this intoxicating story to life.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Watermelon Snow” with an intriguing plot that moves quickly and smoothly to an ending that’s as exciting as it is surprising. I rate it highly and hope to read more novels by William A. Liggett in future.
September 19, 2019
My oh My! Can I rate this higher than a 5? From the very beginning this book draws you into the story, almost as if you are observing all that is happening. Dr. Kate Landry is a climate scientist working in a glacier in Glacier National Park. The season before, on the last day of the study, she noticed a shadow in the ice. As this season approached, she was excited and eager to explore the shadow and find out if it was what she thought. Then she finds out that a NASA behavior scientist was going to join her team to observe how they formed a strong team that works together in a remote research facility.
Kate and one of her graduate students, Frank, eagerly visited the tunnel to see what the shadow in the glacial ice was what she hoped. The next day Frank and the other two students went in to collect data
That night one of her student became very ill and a few hours later another student became ill. Kate contacts the pilot so he can pick up the sick students and get them to a hospital. That's when the excitement begins.
This book is fast paced, has well rounded and interesting characters, and contains a man against nature theme, is very well written and almost impossible to put down.
Kate and one of her graduate students, Frank, eagerly visited the tunnel to see what the shadow in the glacial ice was what she hoped. The next day Frank and the other two students went in to collect data
That night one of her student became very ill and a few hours later another student became ill. Kate contacts the pilot so he can pick up the sick students and get them to a hospital. That's when the excitement begins.
This book is fast paced, has well rounded and interesting characters, and contains a man against nature theme, is very well written and almost impossible to put down.
October 15, 2017
This fast-paced "cli-fi" adventure takes place on the Blue Glacier of Washington State's Olympic Penisula. Blue Glacier is a large but rapidly shrinking glacier that descends from the 7,980 ft Mount Olympus. Great sense of place and innumerous plot twists. Well-researched with lots of "food-for-thought" regarding climate change. Highly recommended.
July 20, 2017
Liggett has created a compelling tale that combines the very real threat of climate change with all the elements of a good novel—danger, suspense, discovery, and a touch of romance. A fine read that will keep you turning the pages.
January 16, 2018
Loved Watermelon Snow
I loved Watermelon Snow. I read it in one sitting. I felt like I knew each person. Wonderful story. Will be reading more of his books.
I loved Watermelon Snow. I read it in one sitting. I felt like I knew each person. Wonderful story. Will be reading more of his books.
November 16, 2017
Read it cover to one cover in one sitting
Excellent i am a big fan of this author n eagerly look forward to more books i am not discussing the plot because I want every other reader to experience it firsthand!!! 5 stars
Excellent i am a big fan of this author n eagerly look forward to more books i am not discussing the plot because I want every other reader to experience it firsthand!!! 5 stars
October 23, 2017
As a layperson with probably above average interest in climate change and science in general, I was eager to read this novel, my first introduction to the 'cli-fi' genre. After 8 attempts to win this book in a giveaway I was lucky enough to win it. I'm not used to writing reviews, but considering the trouble the author went to to send a second copy my way when the first seemed to have gotten lost in the mail, I owe him an honest review. So here goes!
Watermelon Snow was a quick and easy read, a welcome change for me. I liked the chapter length, short enough to read 'just one chapter' before going back to other activities. It never got boring or tough to get through.
Scientific topics and events are based on current actual situations and issues, and the story even takes place in an existing location, which makes the story feel real and exciting. That said, at times the science in the book seems a bit 'forced'; to me, it gave the impression that the author really wanted to include scientific topics that he knew about, but also simplified things to make it all easily readible for the general, non-scientific, public. That is something I encountered throughout the book: overall I found it was lacking some maturity in writing style.
There were moments when I found the science a bit questionable (simplified too much?), the story lacking some credibility and consistency, but overall it was an enjoyable read and a nice debut. I finished it in a few days and that was no struggle at all. I'd be interested in reading more books by the author if he ever writes them.
Watermelon Snow was a quick and easy read, a welcome change for me. I liked the chapter length, short enough to read 'just one chapter' before going back to other activities. It never got boring or tough to get through.
Scientific topics and events are based on current actual situations and issues, and the story even takes place in an existing location, which makes the story feel real and exciting. That said, at times the science in the book seems a bit 'forced'; to me, it gave the impression that the author really wanted to include scientific topics that he knew about, but also simplified things to make it all easily readible for the general, non-scientific, public. That is something I encountered throughout the book: overall I found it was lacking some maturity in writing style.
There were moments when I found the science a bit questionable (simplified too much?), the story lacking some credibility and consistency, but overall it was an enjoyable read and a nice debut. I finished it in a few days and that was no struggle at all. I'd be interested in reading more books by the author if he ever writes them.
January 14, 2019
I won a copy of
Watermelon Snow
from a Goodreads Giveaway.
I was excited when I received my copy because I was expecting an exciting story revolving around our ever worsening climate change crisis and some kind of frightening pandemic a la The Thing but without Kurt Russell.
And it started out okay.
Dr. Kate Landry and her PhD student and assistant makes a startling discovery in a glacier during an expedition.
When they return the following spring to unearth the find of the century, she swears her fellow intern students to secrecy.
At the same time having to entertain Dr. Grant Poole, a NASA scientist sent to study her teamwork methods.
Okay, not too bad, but then I had to deal with:
1. Infantile writing: Do people really say Oh, gosh! when something shocking or scary happens? The writing was immature and the dialogue was so unrealistic.
2. Characters: I disliked Kate; she falls into the trending and all too popular category of seemingly intelligent women who, at first distrusts the strange man who invades her territory, but learns to trust and, of course, relies on him.
And then she loves him. Blech. Because that's what all educated and self sufficient women need in their lives to be satisfied: a man.
Case in point: When the CDC and public health departments converge to meet and discuss on how to contain the potential pandemic, Kate is unable to cope with their demands and questions and looks to Grant for help because he is an 'expert' on dealing with various agencies and different personalities.
Really? She can't handle them herself even though she's been organizing her expedition trips for several years in a remote location with several students.
3. No sense of urgency: How can a story set in the remote wilderness sound so boring?
We get plenty of 'scary' moments when a character slides down a ravine or characters are learning how to climb a mountain and yet all these descriptions are so incredibly dry and dull. So freakin' dull!
4. The pandemic: Turns out to be some silly strain of the flu. No wonder this story was boring from the start.
5. Trite and unnecessary romance:
Look, I'm not opposed to romance or happy endings or even lurrvvee but only when it suits the story, not to drive the characters together, characters I might mention who have no emotional or sexual connection whatsoever.
The extra star was for the nod to the always increasing perils of global warming we are seeing more and more.
If not for that timely topic, Watermelon Snow would have earned my favorite rating of 2017: one star.
I was excited when I received my copy because I was expecting an exciting story revolving around our ever worsening climate change crisis and some kind of frightening pandemic a la The Thing but without Kurt Russell.
And it started out okay.
Dr. Kate Landry and her PhD student and assistant makes a startling discovery in a glacier during an expedition.
When they return the following spring to unearth the find of the century, she swears her fellow intern students to secrecy.
At the same time having to entertain Dr. Grant Poole, a NASA scientist sent to study her teamwork methods.
Okay, not too bad, but then I had to deal with:
1. Infantile writing: Do people really say Oh, gosh! when something shocking or scary happens? The writing was immature and the dialogue was so unrealistic.
2. Characters: I disliked Kate; she falls into the trending and all too popular category of seemingly intelligent women who, at first distrusts the strange man who invades her territory, but learns to trust and, of course, relies on him.
And then she loves him. Blech. Because that's what all educated and self sufficient women need in their lives to be satisfied: a man.
Case in point: When the CDC and public health departments converge to meet and discuss on how to contain the potential pandemic, Kate is unable to cope with their demands and questions and looks to Grant for help because he is an 'expert' on dealing with various agencies and different personalities.
Really? She can't handle them herself even though she's been organizing her expedition trips for several years in a remote location with several students.
3. No sense of urgency: How can a story set in the remote wilderness sound so boring?
We get plenty of 'scary' moments when a character slides down a ravine or characters are learning how to climb a mountain and yet all these descriptions are so incredibly dry and dull. So freakin' dull!
4. The pandemic: Turns out to be some silly strain of the flu. No wonder this story was boring from the start.
5. Trite and unnecessary romance:
Look, I'm not opposed to romance or happy endings or even lurrvvee but only when it suits the story, not to drive the characters together, characters I might mention who have no emotional or sexual connection whatsoever.
The extra star was for the nod to the always increasing perils of global warming we are seeing more and more.
If not for that timely topic, Watermelon Snow would have earned my favorite rating of 2017: one star.
December 12, 2017
Enticing Story
From the moment I started reading this book, it was a real challenge to put it down. The plot of the story was great. It is a masterpiece that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Clearly one of the best books that I have ever read. Keep the stories coming!
From the moment I started reading this book, it was a real challenge to put it down. The plot of the story was great. It is a masterpiece that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Clearly one of the best books that I have ever read. Keep the stories coming!
May 2, 2018
This is like a Sy-fy channel version of a tech thriller. The main character, Kate Landry, is a stereotypical bitchy, bossy, irrational female. She is researching climate change on a glacier in Washington State when she and her colleague discover a mysterious object in the ice. Now Kate wants to keep this a secret so she can claim the credit...
The next summer they are back now accompanied by a NASA behavioral scientist who is to study her group dynamic and use it to postulate how astronauts on long space voyages would behave. So of course Kate thinks he is going to steal her discovery... and of course she is angry. She wants to delay his arrival and he wants to be there from the beginning. Now here's an easy reason she could have used. "Any deep space astronaut will have spent months training together, where as my team is new and needs a few days to mesh before your observation would be valid" but instead she just stomps and snorts.
With the action taking place on a glacier there is LOTS and LOTS of climbing and traversing ice and the author seems well versed in it as well as the safety methods... you will get a lesson in ice ax handling.
Once the problems start they quickly go out of control. And the dangers mount. Soon bodies are piling up and honestly the whole global warming plot gets lost as the book changes to a medical thriller. And the absurdities begin to pile up.
The next summer they are back now accompanied by a NASA behavioral scientist who is to study her group dynamic and use it to postulate how astronauts on long space voyages would behave. So of course Kate thinks he is going to steal her discovery... and of course she is angry. She wants to delay his arrival and he wants to be there from the beginning. Now here's an easy reason she could have used. "Any deep space astronaut will have spent months training together, where as my team is new and needs a few days to mesh before your observation would be valid" but instead she just stomps and snorts.
With the action taking place on a glacier there is LOTS and LOTS of climbing and traversing ice and the author seems well versed in it as well as the safety methods... you will get a lesson in ice ax handling.
Once the problems start they quickly go out of control. And the dangers mount. Soon bodies are piling up and honestly the whole global warming plot gets lost as the book changes to a medical thriller. And the absurdities begin to pile up.
September 21, 2017
The book starts with Professor Kate Landry and her PhD student collecting samples from a glacier which is cracking and starting to melt. They are standing inside a tunnel which was carved into the glacier years ago to study the effects that global warming has on the glacier. They happen to find something inside the tunnel but with the condition the tunnel is in they have to wait until they return months later to resume their work and see what they found. When they return they have several new people working with them, two welcome and one not. The story continues with everyone learning the ropes of safety on the glacier and doing work collecting samples and other projects. An illness hits several people and they need to be taken to a hospital which requires a plane to pick them up. Two are only able to go because of a major storm coming into their area. As this continues the story takes many turns which kept me interested until the end. This is a look at global warming and how it is effecting our environment.
I got this for free in a Goodreads Giveaway.
I got this for free in a Goodreads Giveaway.
March 16, 2018
Climate scientist Kate Landry has made a startling discovery deep in the Blue Glacier. Wary of sharing her discovery too soon, she and her students are settling into their summer research on the glacier and determining just how to proceed with their discovery.
But it’s difficult keeping secrets from the behavioral scientist NASA sent to study Kate’s team. And when an unexpected tragedy occurs, throwing everything into chaos, can Kate protect everyone and still keep her discovery a secret?
Well-developed characters people this absorbing science mystery. The plot twists and turns and, although astute readers may predict some of the outcomes, there are still surprises in store. With a strong scientific framework, the mystery is intriguing on several levels. Readers will find it difficult to set this one aside until the final reveal.
Highly recommended.
But it’s difficult keeping secrets from the behavioral scientist NASA sent to study Kate’s team. And when an unexpected tragedy occurs, throwing everything into chaos, can Kate protect everyone and still keep her discovery a secret?
Well-developed characters people this absorbing science mystery. The plot twists and turns and, although astute readers may predict some of the outcomes, there are still surprises in store. With a strong scientific framework, the mystery is intriguing on several levels. Readers will find it difficult to set this one aside until the final reveal.
Highly recommended.
October 24, 2017
"Watermelon Snow" is a novel filled with adventure and suspense. Two climate research scientists make an unusual discovery on the glacier in Washington's Olympic National Park.
When they return the following season, another scientist joins them; however, he is not to be trusted. In addition, various other factors throw challenges at Dr. Kate Landry’s way.
The novel moves at a good pace and provides the reader with a good read.
July 27, 2017
Excellent
Very well done. The story line was really good, excellent character development and scientifically accurate. A very entertaining and informative plot. Lots of excellent focus on global warming and the environment all of which is fascinating to me.
Hopefully the author continues with this theme. I hope the next book comes before to long.
Very well done. The story line was really good, excellent character development and scientifically accurate. A very entertaining and informative plot. Lots of excellent focus on global warming and the environment all of which is fascinating to me.
Hopefully the author continues with this theme. I hope the next book comes before to long.
August 3, 2017
This was an excellent book with a good combination of suspense, science, and adventure. The characters were interesting and developed well. An easy read that was hard to put down. Would love to see this develope into a series of books to see what's next. A great start for a new author. Hope to see more from him.
July 13, 2017
I loved the book! It was a thrilling story with interesting science weaved into the plot. It moved at a fast pace and I felt like I was on the Blue Glacier. Many of the scenes and images felt cinematic and I could see it being adapted for a movie.
March 2, 2018
Dr. Kate Landry, who is well known for her ability to create great teamwork, and her team of scientists head up to Blue Glacier in Washington to dig around and see if they could unearth something worthwhile. Kate and one of the members of her team definitely find something and Kate doesn't want anyone else to know about it, yet. NASA decides to send a behavioral scientist there to follow Kate around and figure out how she creates such cooperative teams. This fouls up Kate's plans and she needs to go to plan B. But nothing goes as planned on plan B either when a mysterious illness hits their camp causing the rapid death of a valued team member. Mild panic ensues when no one knows how the illness is spread. On to plan C. This novel creates a vision of Kate so that the reader is anxious to see if she succeeds in retrieving her discovery with the NASA interference and the mysterious illness killing members of her team. There is adventure, suspense, an a bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
A great book to read when you have time to just read until you finish the book. Highly recommended.
A great book to read when you have time to just read until you finish the book. Highly recommended.
February 27, 2018
I enjoyed this climate tale from the mountains of the Pacific Northwest. In my youth (not that I'm that old) I spent some time in the mountains of Idaho, climbing, backpacking, and on occasion glissading. The characters' adventures and mishaps crossing the glaciers of the Olympics brought back many fond memories. The implications of ancient "things" (I don't want to give away too much) thawing from the world's glaciers and permafrost was an intriguing segue into some of the issues surrounding climate change that are often overlooked.
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