The Cardinal Line

by Jordan Fitch

A mysterious trait spans generations. Modern science may have an answer, but uncovering its origins will shatter everything.

Arin Coppertree is a graduate student who seeks to break from the life scripted by her wealthy parents. Dane Hardy is a New York City bike messenger who risks it all to carve out a life removed from his tragic past. A unique genetic ability, once uncovered, brings them together.

Arin embarks on what starts as a quaint research trip to explore her family’s past, but her efforts quickly attract unwanted attention. As she and Dane discover their shared history and dig for elusive answers, the forces of past generations rip their reality apart and threaten their freedom, identity, and even their lives.

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 16, 2023

Reviews

[Alexia .p. reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Jordan through Tiktok and I'm so glad I did! I loved this book and immediately gave it to my husband to read! This book kind of has a Night Agent vibe to it, where you can't fully trust the people who say they're on your side (government included). I have never read a book about epigenetics and this was so intriguing. It kept me hooked from the first few chapters and then I couldn't put it down! SO GOOD!!

[Nikka Kowidge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! Interesting characters, intriguing concept, smartly written. This thriller hooked me from the start. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cardinal Line is a fast-paced tale that has the feel of a modern noir read. I was intrigued at the peek into epigenetic heredity and the events that brought the characters to their current situations. Well done!

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Fitch's debut novel, "The Cardinal Line," readers are plunged into a world where genetics and personal history collide in unexpected ways. Arin Coppertree and Dane Hardy, seemingly unrelated individuals, are drawn together by a shared genetic trait that holds the key to their pasts and futures.

The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Arin, a determined graduate student seeking autonomy from her affluent upbringing, and Dane, a gritty New York City bike messenger haunted by his own past tragedies. Fitch deftly weaves their stories together as they embark on a journey to uncover the mysteries of their lineage.

What begins as a seemingly innocuous exploration of family history soon transforms into a gripping thriller, with the characters confronting forces intent on unraveling the secrets they unearth. Fitch adeptly blends elements of science fiction and suspense, keeping the reader engaged and curious throughout.

The strength of "The Cardinal Line" lies in its complex characters and thought-provoking premise. Arin and Dane are not just pawns in a genetic puzzle but fully fleshed-out protagonists grappling with identity, agency, and the consequences of their ancestors' choices. Fitch's prose is both lyrical and suspenseful, creating an immersive experience that lingers long after the final page.

While the novel excels in its exploration of the personal ramifications of genetic inheritance, it occasionally struggles with pacing, particularly in the latter half where the plot accelerates towards its climax. Some readers may also find themselves wanting more depth in certain secondary characters.

Overall, "The Cardinal Line" is a compelling debut that marks Fitch as a promising new voice in speculative fiction. With its blend of scientific intrigue and emotional depth, this novel invites readers to ponder the weight of history and the resilience of the human spirit. Fans of nuanced storytelling and unexpected twists will find much to enjoy in this engaging tale.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book for a debut novel! I really enjoyed the storyline, and the flow in the writing style! It was a page turner throughout! Congratulations, and I can’t wait to read your next novel!

[Mark Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous first book. Looking forward to his next.

[JB Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish goodreads would let you do half stars because this is a 4.5 for me! I really enjoyed The Cardinal Line. This is not my usual genre but as the founder of #futurefamousauthors I have to step out of my comfort zone and find great books by lesser known authors in all genres and this fits the bill. It was a titch slow for me in the very beginning but after a couple of chapters of Arin’s POV and a couple of Dane’s, I was hooked. This was one of those books I couldn’t wait to get back to.

Usually, I can figure out who done what I’m these types of books but Fitch had me guessing right up until the final page and I guessed wrong which never ever happens so that was awesome. I cared about the characters, the pace picked up and turned into a page Turner.

So why only 4.5 and not 5 stars? Mostly editing issues. There were a couple of mistakes in sentences which stopped me and at the end it felt like the ages couldn’t be right. People who should have been older in relation to other characters were younger and vice versa. With a really strong editing sweep this book would be a solid 5 stars for me.

[Donna Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be very intriguing. The concept drew me in, the suspense kept this a "can't put it down" book. Congratulations Jordan! Great book!

[Ian Hurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling and captivating, kept me staying up late and fitting in one more chapter several nights. Great writing and thought provoking story.

[Jyoti · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 "The Cardinal Line" by Jordan Fitch is a thrilling tale of destiny and discovery, where two unlikely souls are brought together by a shared genetic ability. As Arin Coppertree and Dane Hardy delve into their family's past, they uncover dark secrets that threaten their very existence. With a blend of mystery and adventure, Fitch keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. 🕵️‍♂️

✨ Arin, a determined graduate student, and Dane, a resilient bike messenger, embark on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about their lineage. What starts as a research trip quickly escalates into a battle for survival as they confront the forces determined to tear them apart. With twists and turns at every corner, "The Cardinal Line" is a gripping narrative of love, loss, and the power of choice. 🌟

✍️ Jordan Fitch's storytelling prowess shines in "The Cardinal Line," weaving a captivating tale that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. With richly developed characters and a compelling plot, Fitch demonstrates a profound understanding of human nature and the complexities of familial relationships. As an author, Fitch delivers an unforgettable literary experience that leaves a lasting impression. 🖋️

📚 "The Cardinal Line" offers readers a riveting journey filled with suspense and heart-pounding action. Fitch's masterful storytelling transports readers into a world where the past collides with the present, inviting them to question the ties that bind us all. Whether you're a fan of mystery, adventure, or emotional drama, this book delivers on all fronts. Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you breathless. 📖

✍️ "The Cardinal Line" is a must-read for anyone craving a captivating and thought-provoking literary experience. With its gripping plot, compelling characters, and expertly crafted prose, Jordan Fitch's novel is sure to leave a lasting impression. Dive into the world of "The Cardinal Line" today and embark on a journey of discovery, danger, and ultimately, redemption. ✨

[Guneet Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cardinal Line is a scientific-fiction novel written by the author Jordan Fitch, published in November 2023. This is Fitch’s debut novel, and it’s one of the best I’ve read so far. The story centers around Arian, a grad student, and Dane, a bike messenger in New York City. Arian tries to escape the life her wealthy parents have planned for her, while Dane risks everything to create a life separate from his terrible past. A genetic anomaly, once discovered, unites them. Arin sets off on what begins as a simple exploration of her family history, but her explorations quickly draw unwanted attention. While she and Dane explore their shared past and search for answers that elude them, the powers of past generations tear their reality apart, threatening their freedom, their identity, and their lives. The book is full of mystery, suspense and unexpected twists and turns that keep you turning the pages. The futuristic concept of a certain “genetic ability “also gave me a lot to think about. The characters in this book are well-developed and easy to relate to. The multiple twists and turns are well-explained and keep you reading. The book ends with a bang (I won’t give away any secrets, you’ll just have to read this for yourself). The book is about 291 pages long which makes it a bit lengthy but yet worth reading. This book is perfect for thrillers and science fiction fans. Highly recommended from my side.

[Brian A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up late, rose early and missed breakfast completely so I could finish "The Cardinal Line", a debut thriller by Jordan Fitch.
Snippy Boston coed Arin is ultra-sensitive to her surroundings. She has made it into a party game good for a few free beers, but wonders if there’s something wrong with her head. An MRI shows some strange anomalies that get her attention . . and that of the Feds.
Slick New York bike messenger Dane also sees things others don’t. He just wants to use it to escape the City. The winnings from one high-stakes poker game looks like his way out. The losers have other ideas.
Mr. Fitch has spun a gripping tale with converging story lines and solid plotting. "The Cardinal Line" doesn’t smell like a debut novel. It smells of more stories I can’t wait to read.

Brian A. Runyan

[Joseph Sackett · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 stars!!! Jordan Fitch's 'The Cardinal Line' is a riveting foray into the thriller genre, intertwining a generational mystery with a genetic anomaly that challenges everything Arin Coppertree and Dane Hardy thought they knew about their past and each other. This novel captivates with its complex characters and a plot that weaves through twists and turns, creating a narrative labyrinth that's both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Praised as a masterpiece, 'The Cardinal Line' transcends traditional suspense, inviting readers on a gripping journey of discovery, identity, and the unbreakable bonds that define us. Fitch masterfully crafts a suspenseful tale that's not just read, but experienced, making it a must for those seeking a thought-provoking thriller that resonates long after the final page.

[Tammy Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish we could give half star ratings because I would give The Cardinal Line 4.5 stars!
I will say that it did take me a couple chapters to get into it but once the characters were set up, I was eager to find out where this book was going to go. It was a gripping story that kept me guessing until the very end! I can’t wait for Jordan’s next book!

[Michael Bobbitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sharply written book by a promising new writer from the wilds of New Hampshire. Even though this genre is not typically my favorite, Mr. Fitch's skillful storytelling and complex characters kept me engaged from the first page to the last.

Looking forward to his next book. Bravo!

[Jim A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a real page-turner. It is on par with any suspense novel I've ever read. The perfect book for taking on a summer vacation or for making winter doldrums pass in a more exciting way. This is an entertaining book for just about anybody.