Book Review: Dead Line (Arliss Cutter, #7) by Marc Cameron
As soon as I heard the familiar name—Arliss Cutter—I knew I was in for a thrilling ride amidst the icy backdrop of Alaska. Marc Cameron, with his incredible knack for storytelling, draws readers into another harrowing adventure in Dead Line. I’ve been captivated by this series since the very first installment, and this latest offering didn’t disappoint. But what truly hooked me this time was the blend of family drama and high-stakes action, making for an engaging read that kept my heart racing.
At the heart of Dead Line is the tension-filled journey of Sam, a former soldier now in WITSEC. Sam’s decision to reconnect with his estranged mother, Josie, sets off a deadly chain of events orchestrated by the vengeful Valeria, daughter of the mob boss he testified against. Talk about poor decision-making! Sam’s choices serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of past actions, adding an almost tragic layer to the narrative. There’s a bittersweet irony here that pulls at the heartstrings; we can empathize with Sam’s longing for family while recognizing the dangers he brings upon both himself and his mother.
Then we have Arliss Cutter’s own family drama, introduced through the sudden reappearance of his estranged mother, Ursula. After 40 years of silence, she arrives like a storm, requesting his help in finding his long-lost sister. The audacity of Ursula, after abandoning her children, makes her a compelling yet frustrating character. Cameron expertly weaves these complex family ties with the main storyline, enriching the emotional landscape of the book.
The real draw for me, however, is the dynamic between Arliss and Lola, his capable partner. Their relentless pursuit of the killers Royce Decker and Butch Prichard is set against the unforgiving Alaskan tundra, where a blizzard descends with chilling ferocity. Cameron’s detailed storytelling immerses you in the environment—temperatures dropping to -60°F and wind chills hitting -100°F—which practically had me shivering in my chair! The pacing is steady, maintaining tension as the plot unfolds naturally, leading to a gripping finale that left me breathless.
Cameron’s signature style shines here, with rich descriptions of Alaskan landscapes and insightful glimpses into US Marshals’ processes. While I may not be a fan of the extensive weaponry discussion—it can sometimes feel mechanical—the authenticity of the narrative still resonates. One aspect I particularly appreciated was how Grampa Grumpy’s presence continues to loom large in Arliss’s development, adding depth to his character arc.
In closing, Dead Line is a powerhouse of suspense and human emotion that fans of crime fiction will adore. The complex characters, thrilling plotlines, and nuanced familial relationships create a compelling narrative that lingers long after the final page. I would recommend this book not just to existing fans of the series, but also to newcomers who enjoy a hearty blend of crime, drama, and the scenic landscapes of Alaska. It left me pondering the weight of choices and family ties, making this more than just a page-turner—it’s a profound exploration of human connections.
Rating: 4 stars (rounded down from 4.2). A sincere thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review. I can’t wait to see where Arliss Cutter’s journey takes him next!
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