Helpful Score: 6
This book was amazing,
it grabbed you from the very start,
the ending was awesome,
the whole book in general was very unusual which made it more loveable,
and its definitely a book you can re-read.
it grabbed you from the very start,
the ending was awesome,
the whole book in general was very unusual which made it more loveable,
and its definitely a book you can re-read.
Helpful Score: 5
In seven bestselling novels (from Relic to The Ice Limit), Preston and Child have delivered a body of science-based thrillers that for high excitement and robust scientific imaginings rival those of Michael Crichton. Their eighth outing is another richly entertaining tale, about the hunt for a seemingly immortal serial killer at work in New York City. Preston and Child revive characters and settings from earlier novels, often a red flag that authorial imagination is tiring; but in this case, all comes together with zing. There's FBI Special Agent Pendergast (from Relic), pale, refined and possessed of a Holmes-like brain; dogged New York Times reporter William Smithback Jr. and his fiery erstwhile girlfriend, Nora Kelly of the New York (read American, where Preston used to work) Museum of Natural History (both characters from Thunderhead with the museum the setting for Relic). The action begins when groundbreaking for an apartment tower in downtown Manhattan reveals a charnel house of murder victims from the late 19th century. Enter Pendergast, who for unexplained reasons taps Kelly to study the remains before the site is stripped by the building's developer, a Donald Trump-type who, with the mayor's backing, will accept no construction delays. As Kelly calls on Smithback for investigative help, the city is struck by killings that duplicate the earlier murders, with the victims' spinal cords ripped away and clues pointing to a 19th-century scientist who sought the secret of immortality. Featuring fabulous locales, colorful characters, pointed riffs on city and museum politics, cool forensic and paleontological speculation and several gripping set pieces including an extended white-knuckle climax, this a great beach novel, at times gruesome, always fun: Preston-Child at the top of their game.
Adult/High School-FBI Special Agent Pendergast needs the talents of Nora Kelly, an archaeologist, and William Smithback, Jr., a researcher and reporter, to track down a serial killer whom he is sure has been stalking his prey since the late-19th century. When a real-estate developer demolishes a building and finds victims of a murderer who killed by tearing out their spinal columns, the three team up to pursue the evil behind the acts. Along the way, they nearly lose their lives as they relentlessly track the killer who, indeed, is still alive at the beginning of the 21st century. Pendergast stands out as a unique character, mysterious in his own right, with almost superhuman strength and endurance, and encyclopedic knowledge, and the human emotions and abilities of his two assistants intensifies interest in them. The authors again weave facts from New York City history with a thriller plot to produce an adventure filled with fast-moving events, gruesome scenes, and enough scary moments to keep the pages turning quickly. Fans of Preston and Child's Relic (Tor, 1996) or Reliquary (Forge, 1997) will enjoy this title as well.
Adult/High School-FBI Special Agent Pendergast needs the talents of Nora Kelly, an archaeologist, and William Smithback, Jr., a researcher and reporter, to track down a serial killer whom he is sure has been stalking his prey since the late-19th century. When a real-estate developer demolishes a building and finds victims of a murderer who killed by tearing out their spinal columns, the three team up to pursue the evil behind the acts. Along the way, they nearly lose their lives as they relentlessly track the killer who, indeed, is still alive at the beginning of the 21st century. Pendergast stands out as a unique character, mysterious in his own right, with almost superhuman strength and endurance, and encyclopedic knowledge, and the human emotions and abilities of his two assistants intensifies interest in them. The authors again weave facts from New York City history with a thriller plot to produce an adventure filled with fast-moving events, gruesome scenes, and enough scary moments to keep the pages turning quickly. Fans of Preston and Child's Relic (Tor, 1996) or Reliquary (Forge, 1997) will enjoy this title as well.
Helpful Score: 4
Wow....this is the best I've read of Preston and Child. It is fast-paced, full of red herrings and creepy. Great read for any mystery fan.
Louise E. (meowmie) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I have read all the books in this series and this is the best...a combination of the supernatural as well as a great mystery. I wish I could find more books as good as this one.
Frank K. (frankthetank) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 30 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
FBI Special Agent Pendergast needs the talents of Nora Kelly, an archaeologist, and William Smithback, Jr., a researcher and reporter, to track down a serial killer whom he is sure has been stalking his prey since the late-19th century. When a real-estate developer demolishes a building and finds victims of a murderer who killed by tearing out their spinal columns, the three team up to pursue the evil behind the acts. Along the way, they nearly lose their lives as they relentlessly track the killer who, indeed, is still alive at the beginning of the 21st century. Fans of Preston and Child's Relic or Reliquary will enjoy this title as well.
Marilyn B. (mluvsj) -
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book. The storyline was great, Agent Pendergast a true mystery man, unique and alluring, the characters strongly developed and a great read. Kept me turning the pages and always a unexpected twist when I did so. Looking forward to more of these authors. Recommended to anyone who enjoys a good mystery/suspense.
Helpful Score: 1
Edge of seat Thriller ! A real Nail Biter !
Pendergrast investigates a mass murderer who uses the corpses to find a solution to extend his life.
This book has suspense, is riveting and gives us a large glimpse into the background of the usually secretive Pendergrast.
Pendergrast investigates a mass murderer who uses the corpses to find a solution to extend his life.
This book has suspense, is riveting and gives us a large glimpse into the background of the usually secretive Pendergrast.
Helpful Score: 1
Agent Pendergast series. Nora Kelly from Thunderhead works at the Museum. There's a grisly murder a hundred years ago. Creepy story, lots of action, surprise ending.... what an entertaining read should be. Fun!
Nancy C. (hkdmama) - , reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 35 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Nora Kelly and Special Agent Pendergast come together again at the New York Museum of Natural history to solve a series of past and present murders. Preston and Child keep you on the edge of your seat.
Lisa G. (wndrngrl) -
Helpful Score: 1
The writers have done a fantastic job, because this feels real and surreal at the same time, its part Indian Jones, part Anatomy 101, part hide and seek and pray you're not found by the psycho killer, and part unraveling mystery that you have to sit back and get sucked into. Enjoy the ride, it's a heart pounding, fast and not nearly long enough for me! I feel sad having come to the end, but I will always look back on this story and remember how much pleasure I got from reading it and making it come alive in my head
Ronald M. (Fasturtle) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 593 more book reviews
Preston and Child are the masters of great novels
Sharon P. (kyp) -
Great thriller. As always with these two behind the pen.
couldn't put it down
Wonderful--Gripping!!!
Bobbie Jo C. (bobbiejo) -
Engaging plot and a book I couldn't put down!
Tanya H. (oscarprincess) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 14 more book reviews
This was a great book, definitely kept my attention. After "Relic", this is really the start of the Agen Pendergast saga. What a ride it kicks off!
Marian L. (sunfish) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 209 more book reviews
This was the first book I've read by these authors. A real page turner! Especially enjoyed the historical aspect. Looking forward to reading the rest of their books!
Adriane B. (libros75) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 18 more book reviews
This book was a little slow at first, but then I couldn't put it down. Definitely worth reading.
Almost as good as Relic. I loved that it was an action book set around history.
FBI agent Pendergast investigates some old crimes
in NY and identical killing begin to happen again.interesting
but strange.
in NY and identical killing begin to happen again.interesting
but strange.
Rhonda D. (GoochieWoman) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 23 more book reviews
Mystery, history, museums, murder, romance-what more do you need?
Excellent read once again from these two. You will be wondering who the killer is til the last pages! Grisly too! Full of medical and museum fact that are always an interesting read.
Heather K. (VivaLaVole) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 119 more book reviews
Another winner from Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child! Gasp-inducing thriller, wonderfully surprising and inventive. A "read me right now" book!
Leanna C. (lanalane) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 3 more book reviews
You can't go wrong when Agent Pendergast is involved. It's always a "Sherlock Holmes" can you guess it first adventure!!
Althea M. (althea) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 774 more book reviews
A horror/mystery about a serial killer who may have discovered the secret of immortality.... A very Dr. Jekyll/Frankenstein aesthetic, brought into a modern-day milieu - but I *really* enjoyed this book for its over-the-top, tongue in cheek portrayal of the Scary Dangerous city that is New York, and especially the portrayal of the Oh-So-Spooky! Natural History Museum (where I worked for a 9-month internship).
The book is dedicated to "librarians," which gives a clue that the totally ridiculous portrayal of the archivist and library in the museum is very intentionally so... and it is FUNNY! In that watching a bad 70's exploitation film kinda way....
However, reading the reviews on amazon.com, I dunno how many people picked up on that... they don't seem to get it. But I'm 95% sure it was supposed to be funny...
I did disagree with the ending moral, but it was very classic...
The book is dedicated to "librarians," which gives a clue that the totally ridiculous portrayal of the archivist and library in the museum is very intentionally so... and it is FUNNY! In that watching a bad 70's exploitation film kinda way....
However, reading the reviews on amazon.com, I dunno how many people picked up on that... they don't seem to get it. But I'm 95% sure it was supposed to be funny...
I did disagree with the ending moral, but it was very classic...
Not my book but my husband's. He said it was one of the best books he's ever read. He has since read everything these authors have written and waits at the bookstore for their new releases.
another great book by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child
The plot for this story is wonderfully twisted, complex, and creepy that involves an underground crypt, the secret to immortality, and enough good ole boy politics to make you sick!
Agent Pendergast is back with another recurring character from Preston/Child's books at the same natural history museum in New York. Definitely my favorite so far of their books!
Agent Pendergast is back with another recurring character from Preston/Child's books at the same natural history museum in New York. Definitely my favorite so far of their books!
Absolutely fascinating--a mystery with plenty of meat on the bones!! I was almost sorry I finished. Original and truly edge-of-the-seat.
A really good book, lots of twists and turns. There is a very slight "science fiction" element but it is melded neatly into the overall story and doesn't ring untrue.
Preston & Child keeps you on the edge of your seat. A little history thrown into a spine chilling novel.
enjoyable, good plot, sub plot, good character development
While there has to be suspension of disbelief in the reading of this book, I found very well written and interesting. Difficult to guess the culptrit and the plot itself.
This was a great book. The author does a fine job of weaving the past and the present into the story. Scares the hell out you.
Lindsay H. (LindsayDawn) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 26 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book. It's a fast-paced thriller that leads you through dark corridors, past creepy people and even creepier "collections". If you liked Relic and Reliquary, you'll like this book. I'll be reading more Preston and Child.
Outstanding book!
If you like suspense...this is it. Extremely good book.
Diane P. (singingmoon) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 64 more book reviews
Wow another great Preston-Child book.I just cannot stop reading their books.
What a fascinating story. I listened to the audiobook version on CDs. The story was abridged but I don't think there is an unabridged version available.
This is the first story that I have listened to by Douglas Preson and Lincoln Child and I have to say I now want to hear all the rest.
This is the third book that has Agent Pendergast as one of the main characters. According to Wikipedia, Pendergast first appeared as a supporting character in their first novel, RELIC, and in its sequel RELIQUARY, before assuming the protagonist role in THE CABINET OF CURIOSITIES. Pendergast is a special agent for the FBI. He has some special supernatural-like capabilities that may be from his upbringing from his family of magicians, snake-oil salesmans and those who practiced mesmerism.
While digging a foundation for a new building in New York City, the crew discovers a hidden vault where a human skull is discovered. Nora Kelly, an archaeologist at the New York Museum of Natural History, is brought to the site by Agent Pendergast. They discover the remains of multiple victims and the gruesome fact that these vitims were surgically dissected while they were still alive. While they are investigating these old murders, several new murders occur in New York City. They appear to have been committed in the same way -- and while the victims were still alive. Why? Who is doing this? I stayed up late to find out. Again, this was a great story, quite fascinating.
This is the first story that I have listened to by Douglas Preson and Lincoln Child and I have to say I now want to hear all the rest.
This is the third book that has Agent Pendergast as one of the main characters. According to Wikipedia, Pendergast first appeared as a supporting character in their first novel, RELIC, and in its sequel RELIQUARY, before assuming the protagonist role in THE CABINET OF CURIOSITIES. Pendergast is a special agent for the FBI. He has some special supernatural-like capabilities that may be from his upbringing from his family of magicians, snake-oil salesmans and those who practiced mesmerism.
While digging a foundation for a new building in New York City, the crew discovers a hidden vault where a human skull is discovered. Nora Kelly, an archaeologist at the New York Museum of Natural History, is brought to the site by Agent Pendergast. They discover the remains of multiple victims and the gruesome fact that these vitims were surgically dissected while they were still alive. While they are investigating these old murders, several new murders occur in New York City. They appear to have been committed in the same way -- and while the victims were still alive. Why? Who is doing this? I stayed up late to find out. Again, this was a great story, quite fascinating.
Excellent!
JAMIE L. (jamielanier) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 7 more book reviews
... this book had me riveted from the beginning. I couldn't put it down. There were some parts of it that didn't make sense to me but I'm just going to chalk it up to creative writing as I really enjoyed this one.
Well, this one got off to something of a slow start... and I was a bit angry to discover that while this is the third book in the Pendergast series, the interim books written by this pair (or at least _Thunderhead_) involve characters in this one, making me feel like something was missing. I just hate to read books out of order! But, once I got over that, and the story was underway, I was absolutely absorbed into its plot. What a fun and unpredictable book! I enjoyed this one just as much - if not more - than _The Relic_. I especially enjoyed that more of Pendergast's story is being revealed. I can't wait to read the next book!
Jenniifer S. (JennSawyer) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 3 more book reviews
I love this series by these authors. I've read all the books they have written together and really enjoy them.
An interesting read if you are into mystery with a touch of science fiction. The main character (Agent Pendergast) is one of the most unique characters I've read about in a long time. I'd give it 3.25 stars out of 5.
Juls D. (dragynlady) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 10 more book reviews
Great Pendergast novel!
This reminded me of Jack the Ripper with 19th century and present day murders. I couldn't put it down. Very thrilling!
Third book in the Pendergast series. Great character development throughout the series. Great detail. I recommend you read the series in order so you don't miss the nuances in these books. Interesting, creepy. Love it!
Good read
An enjoyable read! From the back cover: "In an ancient tunnel underneath New York City a charnel house is discovered. Inside are thirty-six bodies, all murdered and mutilated more than a century ago. While FBI agent Pendergast investigates the old crimes, identical killings start to terrorize the city. The nightmare has begun. Again" I found the plot fairly predictable, but the characters were strong (including a strong feminine lead) and I particularly enjoyed the fact that I know the part of Manhattan where the book's action takes place. I would recommend - great for taking along on the plane or to have for summer reading.
Very good book.
Jules T. (misstufsy) - , reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 14 more book reviews
The third book envolving Agent Pendergast, and what a unique character he is. Personally I would start at the beginning of the series with Relic, then Reliquary and then go for this one. You will not be disappointed.
Mary D. (readstoclem) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 118 more book reviews
Really scary. Fascinating history.
Amanda N. (Amanda79) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 30 more book reviews
Awesome Book, I could not put it down
Wow, this was an excellent thriller. Well-written, great plot, a nice little history lesson, fabulous characters, thrills and chills galore - need I say more? I liked this so much that I requested every other book these authors have written!
Crystal B. (Sunshine) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 142 more book reviews
I just love the Pendergast books and this was no exception. Suspenseful, scary and you never know what's going to happen!
Lisa E. (ocnsangel) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 224 more book reviews
we meet agent pendergast here,hes the best
ive come across in my reading, twists turns
foensics, scary this book has it all.
ive come across in my reading, twists turns
foensics, scary this book has it all.
Preston and Child are always a great thrill-ride. Their characters and plot-twists are excellent. This book brings back Special Agent Pendergast, Nora Kelly and NY Times reporter Bill Smithback.
Candace G. (Ogre) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 1568 more book reviews
In an old tunnel underneath New York City a charnel house is discovered. Inside are 36 bodies--all murdered and mutilated more than a century ago.
While FBI agent Pendergast investigates the old crimes, identical killings start to terorize the city.
The nightmare has begun . . . again.
While FBI agent Pendergast investigates the old crimes, identical killings start to terorize the city.
The nightmare has begun . . . again.
Carla S. (calden01) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 12 more book reviews
Loved it!
EXCELLENT book! If you're a fan of Preston/Child and Agent Pendergast, you'll really enjoy this one.
A suspenseful, creepy little story.
Jasmine L. (Valkyrie) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 30 more book reviews
excelent book
Excellent thriller.
Dennis B. (author-wwiinovel) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 22 more book reviews
This latest foray into mysteries involving the New York Museum of Natural History by super FBI Agent A.X.L. Pendergast is a fascinating and twisty-turny journey that is the most personal conflict yet for the enigmatic sleuth, and involves one familiar character (William Smithback) and a new heroine: Dr. Nora Kelly. Highly recommended for Pendergast fans or any reader who enjoys a good mystery/thriller.
I have been following Agent Pendergast and Lieutenant D'Agosta for quite some years now and this installment in their crossing paths was one of my favorits. Preston and Childs spin a most enthralling tale that truely has the reader coming back for more! ENJOY!!!
Charlotte H. (Char) -
In nineteenth century NY, the public flocked to collections of strange and grotesque oddities. Now, in Manhattan, a modern apartment tower is slated to rise on the site of one of the old cabinets. When the excavators break into a basement, they uncover a pit of horror: the remains of 36 people murdered over 130 years ago by an unknown srial killer. Enter Special Agent Pendergast!
One of the scariest books I've ever read!
One of the scariest books I've ever read!
I just love everything these guys write, and this is no exception. They write like the book is a movie--lots of page turning action. A fun read and can be very creepy.
in a old tunnel underneath New York City a charnel house is discovered. Inside are 36 bodies all murdered and mutilated more than a century ago............. Excllent book.
Kathryn S. (Katbeth) - , reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 66 more book reviews
A great mystery, and it was hard to put the book down! I also love the historical and archeological descriptions.
Alexis C. (ceeshouse) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 24 more book reviews
As usual Preston and Child have done a great job with the series. I thoroughly enjoyed getting more background about the mysterious Agent Pendergast.
A terrific thriller.
A very good book for agent Pendergast fans, in fact this is one of the best!
Lori G. (muddyroads) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 272 more book reviews
A very good book and excellent thriller.
Whitney B. (scqueen) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 2 more book reviews
This was the first book by Preston & Child that I read. I have now read every book they've written. Excellent!
Wonderful! Great mystery with a lot of historical elements.
Susan M. (susisusisusi) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 11 more book reviews
Usual Preston Child gripping edge of the seat story. If you love Agent Pendergast, you'll love this installment in his story
Susan F. (Luckeyisis) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 23 more book reviews
Very good book, loved the aspect of the cabinet of curisoities even if was not that much or true, but as the owner and operator of Professor Yeti's Cabinet of Curiosities I felt I had to read this book and I was not dissappointed.
Rene E. (ReneAZ) -
Another great read from Preston & Child. Murders identical to murders from a century ago are happening again (by the same person???). Read in 3 days. Great story and characters. Highly recommend it.
Agent Pendergast at his best. Good Book!!
Melissa C. (MelissaC) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 15 more book reviews
Another great book by these authors! This is one of my favorites! Very interesting and very enlightening!
Jenna L. (Grandma) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 211 more book reviews
This is the first book by the duo that I read. Have loved it both times that I read it -- and am in process of 'consuming' all their other books.
Hilary (technobookworm) -
This book was okay. It had some pretty scary parts, but sometimes the descriptions seemed to drag on. I also didn't really like the endingI think it could have been a lot spookier with a different ending!
Excellent and interesting!
Patrick G. (patnlin2) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 22 more book reviews
This has to be one of the best I've read from these authors. Truely you will not be able to put it down!
Erin D. (snuggles13) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 18 more book reviews
I couldn't put this one down....
Coral S. (actressB4) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 34 more book reviews
As always, fantastic!
Excellent series!
What a terrific read! Hard to put it down once you get started!
excelant read
Great book. I really love this entire series but Cabinet of Curiosities was by far my favorite!
Jan W. (Paperchick) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 153 more book reviews
Interesting history lesson, but the plot took a while to get to the point.
Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed The Cabinet of Curiosities (Pendergast, Bk 3) on + 1228 more book reviews
Another gripping and exciting read from Preston/Child. This is the 3rd in the Pendergast series and, so far, the best! This one also includes appearances by Nora Kelly and Bill Smithback. Kelly made her first appearance in the non-Pendergast novel, Thunderhead, which I also thought was a great read. And of course Smithback, the newspaper reporter, played key roles in Relic, Reliquary, and Thunderhead. Curiosities is a great thriller reminiscent of Poe (in fact Poe is mentioned late in the novel). It begins when over 30 skeletal remains are found in the subbasement of a building that is being demolished. Pendergast is on the case from the beginning and enlists Kelly as an archaeologist to work on unearthing the secrets of the hidden bodies. It turns out the bodies were the work of a 19th century serial killer who was looking for a means to extend his life. Then, apparently a copycat killer emerges based on a newspaper story Smithback wrote about the serial killer. But is it really a copycat killer or someone tied to the old murders? Perdergast and his crew work their way through the morass of clues which leads to danger for all of them. There is a surprising twist to the story near the end and overall a great read from Preston/Child. High recommendation!
Gail P. (TinkerPirate) -
Intriguing tale of mad science, family secrets, and murder. I loved the book. I can't wait to read another from Preston and Child!
