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Panic Peak: A Cli-Fi Thriller
How can a single glacier grow dramatically while hundreds are shrinking around the world?
This paradox confronts a young glaciologist Kate Landry as she looks down at her research site buried under shocking mounds of new snow. Little does she know that Mount Olympus is in the bulls-eye for a sophisticated geoengineering experiment being conducted by a scientist who has convinced a secretive international oil cartel to fund his dubious climate modification techniques.
While Kate struggles to understand why the glacier is growing and begins to unravel the entire nefarious scheme, she also struggles to avoid the unraveling of her developing relationship with social psychologist Grant Poole. The more Kate uncovers on the glacier, the more her own life is at risk.
Can she expose the unethical and dangerous geoengineering operation without being caught before she’s stopped? And at what risk to her life?
This paradox confronts a young glaciologist Kate Landry as she looks down at her research site buried under shocking mounds of new snow. Little does she know that Mount Olympus is in the bulls-eye for a sophisticated geoengineering experiment being conducted by a scientist who has convinced a secretive international oil cartel to fund his dubious climate modification techniques.
While Kate struggles to understand why the glacier is growing and begins to unravel the entire nefarious scheme, she also struggles to avoid the unraveling of her developing relationship with social psychologist Grant Poole. The more Kate uncovers on the glacier, the more her own life is at risk.
Can she expose the unethical and dangerous geoengineering operation without being caught before she’s stopped? And at what risk to her life?
254 pages, Paperback
Published March 19, 2024
64 people are currently reading
1214 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 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 29, 2024
4.5
Book Source ~ iRead Book Tour
Kate Landry is a glaciologist studying Blue Glacier on Mt Olympus. After several years of watching it slowly recede, this year it is actually showing growth. Kate is ecstatic and yet highly suspicious of this sudden growth spurt. She begins to suspect that Dr Mark Cooper from Cal-Tech and his PhD candidate Sam Shroeder are doing illegal climate change experiments on the mountain and she’s determined to find out exactly what they’re up to before they cause irreparable harm. Little does she realize how far Cooper will go.
This is one hell of a tense thriller. I was on edge nearly the entire book. Is Cooper truly evil or just an idiot in over his head? What about Sam? How far will she go to take care of her mom? Kate is fierce and stubborn. Even to the point of endangering her life. But then again, how can a decent person know that another scientist is willing to murder to protect his secrets?
This story moves along at a good clip. Never lagging or holding up the delivery. In fact, it may be a bit on the sparse side. However, I’d rather have the plot be a bit lean rather than obese, full of detail that doesn’t add to it or move it along. The addition of Grant Poole is nice. He’s a decent character that gives Kate a solid anchor in a crazy scenario. I didn’t feel as if I really got to know him though.
If you like a great thriller with lots of questionable actions, danger, and characters that will give you all the feels then don’t pass this one up.
Book Source ~ iRead Book Tour
Kate Landry is a glaciologist studying Blue Glacier on Mt Olympus. After several years of watching it slowly recede, this year it is actually showing growth. Kate is ecstatic and yet highly suspicious of this sudden growth spurt. She begins to suspect that Dr Mark Cooper from Cal-Tech and his PhD candidate Sam Shroeder are doing illegal climate change experiments on the mountain and she’s determined to find out exactly what they’re up to before they cause irreparable harm. Little does she realize how far Cooper will go.
This is one hell of a tense thriller. I was on edge nearly the entire book. Is Cooper truly evil or just an idiot in over his head? What about Sam? How far will she go to take care of her mom? Kate is fierce and stubborn. Even to the point of endangering her life. But then again, how can a decent person know that another scientist is willing to murder to protect his secrets?
This story moves along at a good clip. Never lagging or holding up the delivery. In fact, it may be a bit on the sparse side. However, I’d rather have the plot be a bit lean rather than obese, full of detail that doesn’t add to it or move it along. The addition of Grant Poole is nice. He’s a decent character that gives Kate a solid anchor in a crazy scenario. I didn’t feel as if I really got to know him though.
If you like a great thriller with lots of questionable actions, danger, and characters that will give you all the feels then don’t pass this one up.
September 23, 2024
I enjoyed this cli-fi thriller. I really enjoyed the action and the suspense and the romance. I really liked Kate and Grant. I enjoyed the science and the descriptions of the glacier. I received a copy of the book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
October 3, 2024
I received an advance review book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you William A. Liggett and iRead Book Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.
Panic Peak by William A. Leggitt is a thrilling and intense novel that gripped me from the first page and didn't let go until the final word. This is my first Cli-Fi book and won’t be my last. Living in the PNW, I wanted to read this book as I love Mount Olympus. Set in the remote and treacherous mountain region, the book follows young glaciologist, Kate Landry as she discovers her research site is covered under an alarming amount of new snow. Little does she know that it’s the location for a sophisticated geoengineering experiment being conducted by a scientist who has convinced a secretive international oil cartel to fund his dubious climate medication techniques.
This author excels at creating a tense atmosphere, with the harsh mountain environment becoming a character. The detailed descriptions of the perilous climbs and the unpredictable weather made me feel the dangers facing the characters. The psychological tension is perfect, and I enjoyed the backstories, they helped me empathize with the characters and their struggles.
The pacing is spot-on, maintaining a constant sense of urgency and suspense. The author also expertly weaves in themes of survival, trust, and the limits of human endurance. The group dynamics add an additional layer of intrigue, as trust is questioned, and alliances shift.
One of the strongest aspects of Panic Peak is its exploration of fear and how it can either cripple or fuel people in times of crisis. Leggitt’s characters feel real, with relatable flaws and motivations. The story builds to a nail-biting climax that will leave readers breathless.
Overall, Panic Peak is a masterful thriller, perfect for readers who enjoy high-stakes adventure combined psychological depth.
Panic Peak by William A. Leggitt is a thrilling and intense novel that gripped me from the first page and didn't let go until the final word. This is my first Cli-Fi book and won’t be my last. Living in the PNW, I wanted to read this book as I love Mount Olympus. Set in the remote and treacherous mountain region, the book follows young glaciologist, Kate Landry as she discovers her research site is covered under an alarming amount of new snow. Little does she know that it’s the location for a sophisticated geoengineering experiment being conducted by a scientist who has convinced a secretive international oil cartel to fund his dubious climate medication techniques.
This author excels at creating a tense atmosphere, with the harsh mountain environment becoming a character. The detailed descriptions of the perilous climbs and the unpredictable weather made me feel the dangers facing the characters. The psychological tension is perfect, and I enjoyed the backstories, they helped me empathize with the characters and their struggles.
The pacing is spot-on, maintaining a constant sense of urgency and suspense. The author also expertly weaves in themes of survival, trust, and the limits of human endurance. The group dynamics add an additional layer of intrigue, as trust is questioned, and alliances shift.
One of the strongest aspects of Panic Peak is its exploration of fear and how it can either cripple or fuel people in times of crisis. Leggitt’s characters feel real, with relatable flaws and motivations. The story builds to a nail-biting climax that will leave readers breathless.
Overall, Panic Peak is a masterful thriller, perfect for readers who enjoy high-stakes adventure combined psychological depth.
September 6, 2024
Right from the start of Panic Peak, I was hooked. The concept of a single glacier expanding while others are vanishing worldwide immediately caught my curiosity. William A. Liggett does an incredible job of setting up an environmental mystery that feels both timely and eerily plausible.
The story follows Kate Landry, a glaciologist who stumbles upon something much more significant than her research—a geoengineering scheme funded by an international oil cartel. From there, the stakes only get higher, both for Kate’s life and for the planet. Liggett pulls no punches when it comes to showing just how catastrophic these manipulations could be, and that tension kept me turning pages well into the night.
I most appreciated how Panic Peak is more than just a thriller. Kate's personal journey, her relationship with Grant Poole, and the ethical questions raised about geoengineering make it a much deeper read. Liggett weaves science into the story in a way that’s accessible but never feels preachy. The balance between action and introspection was perfect for me.
That said, there were a few moments where I wished the story had explored the geoengineering technology even more—some of the science felt a little rushed. However, this didn’t diminish the story’s impact at all. It just sent me searching for more information, which is always good. Knowledge is power, so they say.
Panic Peak is an exciting, thoughtful, and relevant novel. If you love a gripping thriller with real-world implications, this book will make you think long after turning the last page.
I received a digital copy of the book as part of an iRead Book Tours Promotion. It's also available on Kindle Unlimited.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Learn more about the book and read a guest post from the author on my website, https://ginaraemitchell.com.
The story follows Kate Landry, a glaciologist who stumbles upon something much more significant than her research—a geoengineering scheme funded by an international oil cartel. From there, the stakes only get higher, both for Kate’s life and for the planet. Liggett pulls no punches when it comes to showing just how catastrophic these manipulations could be, and that tension kept me turning pages well into the night.
I most appreciated how Panic Peak is more than just a thriller. Kate's personal journey, her relationship with Grant Poole, and the ethical questions raised about geoengineering make it a much deeper read. Liggett weaves science into the story in a way that’s accessible but never feels preachy. The balance between action and introspection was perfect for me.
That said, there were a few moments where I wished the story had explored the geoengineering technology even more—some of the science felt a little rushed. However, this didn’t diminish the story’s impact at all. It just sent me searching for more information, which is always good. Knowledge is power, so they say.
Panic Peak is an exciting, thoughtful, and relevant novel. If you love a gripping thriller with real-world implications, this book will make you think long after turning the last page.
I received a digital copy of the book as part of an iRead Book Tours Promotion. It's also available on Kindle Unlimited.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Learn more about the book and read a guest post from the author on my website, https://ginaraemitchell.com.
January 9, 2026
Panic Peak is a thrilling, high-stakes eco-suspense novel that combines scientific intrigue, environmental peril, and personal tension. The story follows glaciologist Kate Landry as she confronts the puzzling growth of a glacier only to uncover a secretive geoengineering operation funded by a shadowy oil cartel. Liggett balances detailed scientific exposition with suspenseful plotting, keeping readers engaged without ever feeling overwhelmed by technicalities.
The novel’s emotional depth comes through Kate’s personal stakes, especially her evolving relationship with social psychologist Grant Poole. Their interactions humanize the narrative, adding layers of tension and vulnerability amid the larger environmental and moral stakes. Liggett’s depiction of danger, ethics, and scientific discovery creates a story that resonates both intellectually and emotionally.
Panic Peak will appeal to readers who enjoy eco-thrillers, scientific mysteries, and suspenseful fiction where global stakes intersect with deeply personal consequences. Its combination of climate science, moral dilemmas, and human resilience makes it compelling for fans of Michael Crichton, James Rollins, or contemporary thriller readers seeking both brains and heart.
The novel’s emotional depth comes through Kate’s personal stakes, especially her evolving relationship with social psychologist Grant Poole. Their interactions humanize the narrative, adding layers of tension and vulnerability amid the larger environmental and moral stakes. Liggett’s depiction of danger, ethics, and scientific discovery creates a story that resonates both intellectually and emotionally.
Panic Peak will appeal to readers who enjoy eco-thrillers, scientific mysteries, and suspenseful fiction where global stakes intersect with deeply personal consequences. Its combination of climate science, moral dilemmas, and human resilience makes it compelling for fans of Michael Crichton, James Rollins, or contemporary thriller readers seeking both brains and heart.
November 14, 2024
This was a GoodReads giveaway win of a Kindle ebook. This is a voluntary review.
Not heavy in science, but was it a bit heavy handed in ladling out the science in the story telling? All of the climate science is factual and plausible (to the best of my knowledge). Only really relies on one unknown secret fuel formulation (the McGuffin).
Overall I liked the story. I was not really a fan of our antagonist. I did not really see the build up of emotion conflict regarding his actions. Perhaps he needed a dying breath moment to voice his regrets. I really did not care for the secret cabal portion of the ending. Mostly it was a bit too third person in action.
An observation. In the epilogue, our "climate change" protagonists are basking in the warmth of a wood pellet stove heat. It may be a most efficient method of heating, but nonetheless it still outputs its share of carbon dioxide. Yeah, no heating method is completely carbon free so I just have to accept it as a fact of life. Perhaps that part should have just be skipped in the story telling.
Now go find your next GoodReads.
Not heavy in science, but was it a bit heavy handed in ladling out the science in the story telling? All of the climate science is factual and plausible (to the best of my knowledge). Only really relies on one unknown secret fuel formulation (the McGuffin).
Overall I liked the story. I was not really a fan of our antagonist. I did not really see the build up of emotion conflict regarding his actions. Perhaps he needed a dying breath moment to voice his regrets. I really did not care for the secret cabal portion of the ending. Mostly it was a bit too third person in action.
An observation. In the epilogue, our "climate change" protagonists are basking in the warmth of a wood pellet stove heat. It may be a most efficient method of heating, but nonetheless it still outputs its share of carbon dioxide. Yeah, no heating method is completely carbon free so I just have to accept it as a fact of life. Perhaps that part should have just be skipped in the story telling.
Now go find your next GoodReads.
September 24, 2024
I’ve only read a few cli-fi thrillers and after reading the synopsis I thought this was a good one to try. It didn’t disappoint, in many ways.
A mysterious iceberg that appears to be growing while others disappear. What’s behind that? Natural or man’s interference.
The setting, Mount Olympus. Subzero temperatures and isolated. Where the environment is an adversary. That’s something I really like in a story. A test of human endurance all it’s own.
A hidden agenda, along with the requisite villain. A must for any good thriller book.
And a female protagonist. One who’s double tough, self confident and willing to stick to what she knows is true. But also, flawed. Which makes her believable and makes you rout for her.
I thoroughly enjoyed Pain Peak and now want to see what else the author has to offer.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
A mysterious iceberg that appears to be growing while others disappear. What’s behind that? Natural or man’s interference.
The setting, Mount Olympus. Subzero temperatures and isolated. Where the environment is an adversary. That’s something I really like in a story. A test of human endurance all it’s own.
A hidden agenda, along with the requisite villain. A must for any good thriller book.
And a female protagonist. One who’s double tough, self confident and willing to stick to what she knows is true. But also, flawed. Which makes her believable and makes you rout for her.
I thoroughly enjoyed Pain Peak and now want to see what else the author has to offer.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
September 22, 2024
Panic Peak follows the story of glaciologist Kate Landry while conducting her research Kate also discovers a geoengineering scheme funded by an international oil cartel. Kate also has a romance with social psychologist Grant developing. She may also end up fighting for her life! Right from the start this book got into the heart pumping action and it didn't let up. It has a few different obstacles happening at once from climate change, geoengineering, mystery, thrilling action and romance. It's the perfect mix and so comfortable to read. I enjoyed learning more about the topic of geoengineering which is something I don't know much about but found it interesting. The suspense building of not knowing what would happen kept me turning the pages and the romance was a nice bonus.
September 27, 2024
Kate is a glaciologist (what a cool job!!!). For the past several years she has been monitoring the changes in Blue Glacier in the Washington State Mountains. She runs into Grant, who is also studying the area but not for the same reasons. He wants to use his methods to show a reverse in climate change, even when it’s not there. This book is a fairly quick read and is full of danger, adventure, lies, determination, and strong characters. I enjoyed this book and the excellent writing that made me feel as if I was in the cold with the characters. Definitely worth a read!!
May 18, 2024
I just finished reading Panic Peak and loved it! Great overall story--one that should interest the whole world--tight, logical and detailed plot, appealing and believable characters, writing that was easy and enjoyable to read, and a sure-handed grasp of the science--both geographic and atmospheric.
June 1, 2024
Panic Peak is an intense, gripping follow-up to Liggett's earlier cli-fi novel, Watermelon Snow. A quick read, it features some likeable characters, dangerous others, real science, and enough plot twists and tension to keep you worried until the end.
October 22, 2024
An exciting read!
The author has written what for me is a primer on efforts and ideas to influence resolving what is perhaps the single most challenging conundrum of our time: Climate Change. Thanks, William Liggett! I'm looking forward to reading the next book on the series.
The author has written what for me is a primer on efforts and ideas to influence resolving what is perhaps the single most challenging conundrum of our time: Climate Change. Thanks, William Liggett! I'm looking forward to reading the next book on the series.
October 20, 2024
Panic Peak
An excellent read it has all of the elements that I expect in a mystery. The plot is believable and the action moves fast enough to keep a reader interested and engaged.
An excellent read it has all of the elements that I expect in a mystery. The plot is believable and the action moves fast enough to keep a reader interested and engaged.
November 12, 2024
I don't think I've read (or heard of) "cli-fi" before. Enjoyable read, but not sure it's the genre for me.
June 25, 2025
Just OK for me. If this series continues, I don't think I will read more of it.
July 20, 2025
A new adventure for Dr. Kate Landry & a very different plot from the first book. And with that state of the “Global Warming” of Earth a very plausible story at that. It’s a worthwhile read.
November 16, 2025
I won this in a giveaway. if you like adventure stories be sure to check it out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2024
Panic Peak: A Cli Fi Thriller is the first book from the Warming World Adventures series. It is, also, a great debut for the talented author, William A. Liggett. This is the first experience with the genre of cli fi. I have never heard of it before and was intrigued enough to find out. I was not disappointed. This book was full of adventure, danger and action packed. It had quite a few of twists and turns that I could have never predicted. I never knew what would happen from scene to scene. I found the author's use of scientific facts to bring on an interesting story. It is a quick read and was easy for me to have it finished in one sitting. An overall, fast paced tale to be immersed in for a few hours.
I am giving Panic Peak: A Cli Fi Thriller a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read adult fiction and thrillers. I am curious to see what William A Liggett has in store for his characters and fans in the next installment from the Warming World Adventures series, Watermelon Snow: A Novel of Survival in the Washington Wilderness. I believe this one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of William A Liggett's Panic Peak: A Cli Fi Thriller from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Panic Peak: A Cli Fi Thriller a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read adult fiction and thrillers. I am curious to see what William A Liggett has in store for his characters and fans in the next installment from the Warming World Adventures series, Watermelon Snow: A Novel of Survival in the Washington Wilderness. I believe this one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of William A Liggett's Panic Peak: A Cli Fi Thriller from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews