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Oregon Files #10
Piranha
Juan Cabrillo and the crew of the Oregon return in the extraordinary new novel in the #1 New York Times–bestselling series by the grand master of adventure.
In 1902, the volcano Mt. Pelée erupts on the island of Martinique, wiping out an entire city of thirty thousand—and sinking a ship carrying a German scientist on the verge of an astonishing breakthrough. More than a century later, Juan Cabrillo will have to deal with that scientist’s legacy.
During a covert operation, Cabrillo and the crew meticulously fake the sinking of the Oregon—but when an unknown adversary tracks them down despite their planning and attempts to assassinate them, Cabrillo and his team struggle to fight back against an enemy who seems to be able to anticipate their every move. They discover that a traitorous American weapons designer has completed the German scientist’s work, and now wields extraordinary power, sending the Oregon on a race against time to stop an attack that could lead to one man ruling over the largest empire the world has ever known.
In 1902, the volcano Mt. Pelée erupts on the island of Martinique, wiping out an entire city of thirty thousand—and sinking a ship carrying a German scientist on the verge of an astonishing breakthrough. More than a century later, Juan Cabrillo will have to deal with that scientist’s legacy.
During a covert operation, Cabrillo and the crew meticulously fake the sinking of the Oregon—but when an unknown adversary tracks them down despite their planning and attempts to assassinate them, Cabrillo and his team struggle to fight back against an enemy who seems to be able to anticipate their every move. They discover that a traitorous American weapons designer has completed the German scientist’s work, and now wields extraordinary power, sending the Oregon on a race against time to stop an attack that could lead to one man ruling over the largest empire the world has ever known.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2015
891 people are currently reading
3132 people want to read
About the author
Clive Cussler
645 books8,522 followersCussler began writing novels in 1965 and published his first work featuring his continuous series hero, Dirk Pitt, in 1973. His first non-fiction, The Sea Hunters, was released in 1996. The Board of Governors of the Maritime College, State University of New York, considered The Sea Hunters in lieu of a Ph.D. thesis and awarded Cussler a Doctor of Letters degree in May, 1997. It was the first time since the College was founded in 1874 that such a degree was bestowed.
Cussler was an internationally recognized authority on shipwrecks and the founder of the National Underwater and Marine Agency, (NUMA) a 501C3 non-profit organization (named after the fictional Federal agency in his novels) that dedicates itself to preserving American maritime and naval history. He and his crew of marine experts and NUMA volunteers discovered more than 60 historically significant underwater wreck sites including the first submarine to sink a ship in battle, the Confederacy's Hunley, and its victim, the Union's Housatonic; the U-20, the U-boat that sank the Lusitania; the Cumberland, which was sunk by the famous ironclad, Merrimack; the renowned Confederate raider Florida; the Navy airship, Akron, the Republic of Texas Navy warship, Zavala, found under a parking lot in Galveston, and the Carpathia, which sank almost six years to-the-day after plucking Titanic's survivors from the sea.
In addition to being the Chairman of NUMA, Cussler was also a fellow in both the Explorers Club of New York and the Royal Geographic Society in London. He was honored with the Lowell Thomas Award for outstanding underwater exploration.
Cussler's books have been published in more than 40 languages in more than 100 countries. His past international bestsellers include Pacific Vortex, Mediterranean Caper, Iceberg, Raise the Titanic, Vixen 03, Night Probe, Deep Six, Cyclops, Treasure, Dragon, Sahara, Inca Gold, Shock Wave, Flood Tide, Atlantis Found, Valhalla Rising, Trojan Odyssey and Black Wind (this last with his son, Dirk Cussler); the nonfiction books The Sea Hunters, The Sea Hunters II and Clive Cussler and Dirk Pitt Revealed; the NUMA® Files novels Serpent, Blue Gold, Fire Ice, White Death and Lost City (written with Paul Kemprecos); and the Oregon Files novels Sacred Stone and Golden Buddha (written with Craig Dirgo) and Dark Watch (written with Jack Du Brul).
Clive Cussler died at his home in Scottsdale, Arizona on February 24, 2020.
Cussler was an internationally recognized authority on shipwrecks and the founder of the National Underwater and Marine Agency, (NUMA) a 501C3 non-profit organization (named after the fictional Federal agency in his novels) that dedicates itself to preserving American maritime and naval history. He and his crew of marine experts and NUMA volunteers discovered more than 60 historically significant underwater wreck sites including the first submarine to sink a ship in battle, the Confederacy's Hunley, and its victim, the Union's Housatonic; the U-20, the U-boat that sank the Lusitania; the Cumberland, which was sunk by the famous ironclad, Merrimack; the renowned Confederate raider Florida; the Navy airship, Akron, the Republic of Texas Navy warship, Zavala, found under a parking lot in Galveston, and the Carpathia, which sank almost six years to-the-day after plucking Titanic's survivors from the sea.
In addition to being the Chairman of NUMA, Cussler was also a fellow in both the Explorers Club of New York and the Royal Geographic Society in London. He was honored with the Lowell Thomas Award for outstanding underwater exploration.
Cussler's books have been published in more than 40 languages in more than 100 countries. His past international bestsellers include Pacific Vortex, Mediterranean Caper, Iceberg, Raise the Titanic, Vixen 03, Night Probe, Deep Six, Cyclops, Treasure, Dragon, Sahara, Inca Gold, Shock Wave, Flood Tide, Atlantis Found, Valhalla Rising, Trojan Odyssey and Black Wind (this last with his son, Dirk Cussler); the nonfiction books The Sea Hunters, The Sea Hunters II and Clive Cussler and Dirk Pitt Revealed; the NUMA® Files novels Serpent, Blue Gold, Fire Ice, White Death and Lost City (written with Paul Kemprecos); and the Oregon Files novels Sacred Stone and Golden Buddha (written with Craig Dirgo) and Dark Watch (written with Jack Du Brul).
Clive Cussler died at his home in Scottsdale, Arizona on February 24, 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 476 reviews
January 1, 2020
Once again, Clive Cussler has created a rocketing adventure story in Piranha, the 10th in the Oregon series. The eruption of Mt Pelee on Martinique in 1902 which killed the entire city also sank an old whaler which was carrying a German scientist whose imminent breakthrough was put on hold due to his death.
Over 100 years later Juan Cabrillo and his crew aboard the Oregon found themselves tangled up in the past; in the current day, a clever American who just happened to inherit something from a long ago relative, had continued with the German’s work. His lethal power and his determination to become the most powerful man on earth, saw Juan and the Oregon fighting a battle which seemed insurmountable…
Fast paced, action-packed and loaded with twists, Piranha was an entertaining ride by the inimitable Clive Cussler. Recommended.
Over 100 years later Juan Cabrillo and his crew aboard the Oregon found themselves tangled up in the past; in the current day, a clever American who just happened to inherit something from a long ago relative, had continued with the German’s work. His lethal power and his determination to become the most powerful man on earth, saw Juan and the Oregon fighting a battle which seemed insurmountable…
Fast paced, action-packed and loaded with twists, Piranha was an entertaining ride by the inimitable Clive Cussler. Recommended.
June 27, 2019
Another wonderful adventure story in the Juan Cabrillo series. I love that the stories are plausible: even if at times they push the edges with using technology that is at present not available. The characters are all so plausible, the wording of the action means I see it like a movie in my mind and it was an unputdownable read. Terrific.
December 28, 2015
I am a new reader to the Oregon Files and Clive Cussler's books. All I can say is WOW!!! It is truly full of action from beginning to end. I enjoy the characters as well as the story.
I will be reading the first book in his other series, Dirk Pitt.
I will be reading the first book in his other series, Dirk Pitt.
September 17, 2021
As with all Cussler, this is a action-adventure ride powered by burning disbelief; despite the authors' attempts to put the crew of the Oregon in peril, it is obvious they are so superhuman that they won't lose. Not wven sure the paint gets scratched on the ship.
Standard Bond-themed storyline -- mysterious cargo vanishes in the past, someone's messing with military drone projects, the merry crew of the Oregon get a little scam past some bad people, all before the action really begins. A little different though, because it turns out the bad powerful people have a worse villain behind them, one that makes few true mistakes, and Juan Cabrillo needs a ton of skill and luck (always good, of course) to get his crew in position to save the world, and save the day.
Standard Bond-themed storyline -- mysterious cargo vanishes in the past, someone's messing with military drone projects, the merry crew of the Oregon get a little scam past some bad people, all before the action really begins. A little different though, because it turns out the bad powerful people have a worse villain behind them, one that makes few true mistakes, and Juan Cabrillo needs a ton of skill and luck (always good, of course) to get his crew in position to save the world, and save the day.
February 11, 2021
Another excellent story, the villain/scheme not as believable as past books. First one by Boyd Morrison, so far I prefer Du Brul’s books.
June 23, 2015
Another great read from the Oregon Files! Piranha will keep you turning pages late into the night. Non-stop action from start to finish!
March 26, 2020
Scary concept huh?
November 12, 2015
Not my usual genre. So many of my friends have been gushing over it I though I would give it a go. Glad I did! Loved the fast paced action. Not bored at all. New Clive Cussler fan!
June 18, 2016
This is book ten in the Oregon series. I saw an ad for book eleven in the series and discovered I had missed reading book ten. It has been awhile since I read a Cussler book.
This book follows the Cussler tradition of non-stop action. The characters no sooner get out of one predicament than they plunge into another. In this story the book opens in 1902 with the eruption of Mt. Pelé on Martinique then switches to modern times. Lawrence Kensit is attempting to take over the world. Admiral Dayana Ruiz of the Venezuelan Navy is helping him and of course the crew of the Oregon is out to stop both of them.
The book is well written and has all the high tech wizardry that I like about the series. I did notice the style of writing was different and saw there was a change in co-authors from Jack DuBral to Boyd Morrison. I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. Scott Brick preformed his usual excellent job narrating the story. Brick is known as one of the golden voices of audiobook narration. He has won over 50 Earphone Awards and two Audie Awards. Some of his recent awards are the 2016 Best Voice in Science Fiction, 2011 Best Voice in Mystery and Suspense, 2010 Best Voice in Biography and the 2008 Best Voice in Science Fiction. He has also won awards for acting.
This book follows the Cussler tradition of non-stop action. The characters no sooner get out of one predicament than they plunge into another. In this story the book opens in 1902 with the eruption of Mt. Pelé on Martinique then switches to modern times. Lawrence Kensit is attempting to take over the world. Admiral Dayana Ruiz of the Venezuelan Navy is helping him and of course the crew of the Oregon is out to stop both of them.
The book is well written and has all the high tech wizardry that I like about the series. I did notice the style of writing was different and saw there was a change in co-authors from Jack DuBral to Boyd Morrison. I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. Scott Brick preformed his usual excellent job narrating the story. Brick is known as one of the golden voices of audiobook narration. He has won over 50 Earphone Awards and two Audie Awards. Some of his recent awards are the 2016 Best Voice in Science Fiction, 2011 Best Voice in Mystery and Suspense, 2010 Best Voice in Biography and the 2008 Best Voice in Science Fiction. He has also won awards for acting.
August 5, 2020
Con questo libro Clive Clusser ha veramente superato se stesso. Juan Cabrillo e i suoi uomini sono alle prese con un uomo apparentemente imbattibile, un genio solitario, che tutto vede e tutto sente, che mira a conquistare il mondo con la sua invenzione. Un'avventura avvincente e appassionante, che mostra come una squadra di persone intelligenti possano sconfiggere qualsiasi cosa!
January 18, 2019
Mindless action
July 12, 2015
Tenth in the Oregon Files suspense series and revolving around Juan Cabrillo and his team — the Corporation.
My Take
I love the Oregon. It's deceptive appearance is so very clever, and the contrast with its interior is amazing. Of course, I am a gadget nut, so I love all the fun weapons and vehicles they have aboard as well. Then there's its mission. Another astute ploy to put eyes-and-ears in any port.
Their opening mission in Piranha is so clever! Simple and extremely effective in theory. Unfortunately, the enemy is omnipotent. And it's terrifying what and where the Doctor can go, what he can see, hear, and take. I suspect it's my own terror at how easily the Doctor can penetrate anything, anywhere, any time that left me feeling flat about Piranha. I was so busy being afraid that I couldn't enjoy the action as much.
I had planned on giving Piranha a "4", but in writing this review, I realized how wrong I was. It really is a brilliant premise Cussler and Morrison have created, and I can only pray it never does become a reality.
I can sympathize with the Doctor. The powers-that-be aren't doing what they could to fix the planet and solve crime, war, famine, pollution, disease, and energy and water shortages. All of which sounds to me as if he wants to help people as well as the planet, but the Doctor is deluding himself if he thinks his way is so much better. He certainly isn't too concerned about the poor and the disadvantaged. He's using drug money, enabling stolen military tech sales, and permitting the destruction of ships' crews and his own teammates. It's that background about him and his love for online role-playing games that tell the truth. And yet another example of how brain smarts don't translate into self-awareness.
The Story
The Oregon has a problem, and it needs to disappear, to die. There are too many rumors spreading about a ghost ship bristling with weapons. And this mission to discover if the Venezuelans are supplying arms to the North Koreans provides the ideal opportunity to do so.
It's an op whose files will prove to be a breadcrumb to yet another plot of destruction, and yet another. But not before the mass assassination attack in Jamaica.
The Characters
The Corporation was created…
…to stop terrorists and assassins. They're mercenaries with a code of honor. Their home base and transport is the Oregon , a bristling state-of-the art tramp freighter with its own moon pool, submarines, mega-weapons, and a team of experts who can turn their hand to most anything. The Washington was her sister ship and scheduled for the scrap yard.
The captain is Juan Cabrillo, a.k.a., Buck Holland, Chairman of the Corporation. Max Hanley is the chief engineer and president of the Corporation. The massive Linc is a former Navy SEAL. Kevin Nixon is a Hollywood makeup artist and costumer. Linda is a Navy vet and former Pentagon staffer who is now vice president of operations. The Cajun, Marion MacDougal "MacD" Lawless, a former Army Ranger, and the gorgeous Mike Trono, a former elite pararescue jumper for the Air Force, are gundogs. Hali Kasim is the communications officer. Eddie Seng is director of shore operations, a.k.a., Gao Wang-shu. Maurice is the chief steward who takes excellent care of the crew and Juan. Dr. Julia Huxley, a former U.S. Navy doctor, is the medical officer. Eric Stone had worked in the Navy in research and development and is now the Oregon's helmsman. Mark Murphy is an arms development genius with a Ph.D. from MIT and is the ship's weapons officer with a love for skateboarding. Both are computer experts. George "Gomez" Adams is the helicopter pilot and drone operator. Tiny Gunderson is their fixed-wing pilot. One of their latest weapons is a land-based version of the Oregon, nicknamed PIG.
Government and Military Interests
Washington D.C.
Vice-president James Sandeker was once the head of NUMA. Langston Overholt is the Corporation's CIA contact. St. Julien Perlmutter is a maritime expert with an exhaustive library of naval history. Fritz is his beagle.
Gordian Engineering is doing the forensic investigation of the Chesapeake Bay disaster with Dr. Tyler Locke in charge. Grant Westfield is their top electrical engineer; he's also renowned as The Burn.
Panama City, Florida
Major Norm Miller is in charge of this latest drone test.
9 months ago, Chesapeake Bay was…
…the site of a drone test. Frederick Weddell is an electrical engineer who is the Air Force's top communications specialist; Lawrence Kensit is a brilliant computer scientist and physicist; and, Douglas Pearson is a hardware designer with strong opinions.
The Caribbean
Jamaica
Captain Craig Reed commands the Cast Away and uses her for fishing charters. Colin Porter is a friend and the captain of the Oceanaire. Bill Musgrave owns Atlas Salvage which is based in Kingston.
Martinique
1902: Ellery Scott is the first officer aboard the SS Roraima, and George Muggah is its captain. Mr. Havers is the third mate. Taylor and Quashey are some of the sailors. Gunther Lutzen is a German passenger with a fascination for photography who has almost gotten his doctorate in physics. Ingrid Lutzen is his sister in New York City. Monsieur Plessoneau is the agent on Martinique. Captain Marino Leboffe tried to leave harbor but was refused permission by the harbormaster.
Today: Captain Batiste operates a pleasure sub for tourists.
Venezuela
Puerto La Cruz
Manuel Lozada is the harbormaster for La Guanta Harbor and a reservist for the Venezuelan Navy. Gao Wang-shu, a.k.a., Fernando Wang, is a former Chinese marine who had been at the battle in Golden Buddha , 1. Captain Carlos Ortega is based in Puerto Cabello. Lieutenant Pablo Dominguez is in charge of security for the shipping operation that night.
Admiral Dayana Ruiz has her own sideline going and uses the Mariscal Sucre and its Captain Escobar to aid her plans. Captain Eduardo Garcia is in command of the Valera, and he and the Maracaibo are functioning as escort for the Reina Azul.
Cabimas Shipping is…
…owned by Ricardo Leal, and he is making noises about running for president in Venezuela. The Ciudad Bolivar is another of his ships and is captained by Maria Sandoval. Jorge is the navigator, Miguel is part of the crew, and Roberto is the helmsman.
The Doctor
Lake Péligre is where…
…Phase One of Sentinel is located in Haiti. The Doctor is in charge. Hector Bazin was born in Haiti and served as a servant to a wealthy family who mistreated him. David Pasquet is a former Haitian National Police SWAT officer and sniper. Jacques Duval is a deputy commander with the Haitian Police and was a fellow servant with Bazin when they were children.
Colombia
Alonzo Tallon is a drug trafficker. Sergio Portilla is his second-in-command who has gotten sloppy.
Miami
Brian Washburn, a two-times former governor of Florida, is quite conscientious about appearing to be a man of the people with an ambition to be president of the United States. Too bad he's not as careful in his business dealings at Washburn Industries. Gary Clement was an accountant.
Berlin
Greta is a student working at the library at the Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm Center. Herr Schmidt is the librarian.
New York City
Greg Horne owns a Global Translation Services in New York City where the late Bob Gillman worked. Jill was his receptionist. Leonard O'Shea is a delivery driver.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a nice complement of deep orange and blue from the fireworks in the sky over the burning ship in a rolling sea.
The title is the smallest part of this story, although their actions color it all, for they are like Piranha, eating whatever they can get their teeth into.
My Take
I love the Oregon. It's deceptive appearance is so very clever, and the contrast with its interior is amazing. Of course, I am a gadget nut, so I love all the fun weapons and vehicles they have aboard as well. Then there's its mission. Another astute ploy to put eyes-and-ears in any port.
Their opening mission in Piranha is so clever! Simple and extremely effective in theory. Unfortunately, the enemy is omnipotent. And it's terrifying what and where the Doctor can go, what he can see, hear, and take. I suspect it's my own terror at how easily the Doctor can penetrate anything, anywhere, any time that left me feeling flat about Piranha. I was so busy being afraid that I couldn't enjoy the action as much.
I had planned on giving Piranha a "4", but in writing this review, I realized how wrong I was. It really is a brilliant premise Cussler and Morrison have created, and I can only pray it never does become a reality.
I can sympathize with the Doctor. The powers-that-be aren't doing what they could to fix the planet and solve crime, war, famine, pollution, disease, and energy and water shortages. All of which sounds to me as if he wants to help people as well as the planet, but the Doctor is deluding himself if he thinks his way is so much better. He certainly isn't too concerned about the poor and the disadvantaged. He's using drug money, enabling stolen military tech sales, and permitting the destruction of ships' crews and his own teammates. It's that background about him and his love for online role-playing games that tell the truth. And yet another example of how brain smarts don't translate into self-awareness.
The Story
The Oregon has a problem, and it needs to disappear, to die. There are too many rumors spreading about a ghost ship bristling with weapons. And this mission to discover if the Venezuelans are supplying arms to the North Koreans provides the ideal opportunity to do so.
It's an op whose files will prove to be a breadcrumb to yet another plot of destruction, and yet another. But not before the mass assassination attack in Jamaica.
The Characters
The Corporation was created…
…to stop terrorists and assassins. They're mercenaries with a code of honor. Their home base and transport is the Oregon , a bristling state-of-the art tramp freighter with its own moon pool, submarines, mega-weapons, and a team of experts who can turn their hand to most anything. The Washington was her sister ship and scheduled for the scrap yard.
The captain is Juan Cabrillo, a.k.a., Buck Holland, Chairman of the Corporation. Max Hanley is the chief engineer and president of the Corporation. The massive Linc is a former Navy SEAL. Kevin Nixon is a Hollywood makeup artist and costumer. Linda is a Navy vet and former Pentagon staffer who is now vice president of operations. The Cajun, Marion MacDougal "MacD" Lawless, a former Army Ranger, and the gorgeous Mike Trono, a former elite pararescue jumper for the Air Force, are gundogs. Hali Kasim is the communications officer. Eddie Seng is director of shore operations, a.k.a., Gao Wang-shu. Maurice is the chief steward who takes excellent care of the crew and Juan. Dr. Julia Huxley, a former U.S. Navy doctor, is the medical officer. Eric Stone had worked in the Navy in research and development and is now the Oregon's helmsman. Mark Murphy is an arms development genius with a Ph.D. from MIT and is the ship's weapons officer with a love for skateboarding. Both are computer experts. George "Gomez" Adams is the helicopter pilot and drone operator. Tiny Gunderson is their fixed-wing pilot. One of their latest weapons is a land-based version of the Oregon, nicknamed PIG.
Government and Military Interests
Washington D.C.
Vice-president James Sandeker was once the head of NUMA. Langston Overholt is the Corporation's CIA contact. St. Julien Perlmutter is a maritime expert with an exhaustive library of naval history. Fritz is his beagle.
Gordian Engineering is doing the forensic investigation of the Chesapeake Bay disaster with Dr. Tyler Locke in charge. Grant Westfield is their top electrical engineer; he's also renowned as The Burn.
Panama City, Florida
Major Norm Miller is in charge of this latest drone test.
9 months ago, Chesapeake Bay was…
…the site of a drone test. Frederick Weddell is an electrical engineer who is the Air Force's top communications specialist; Lawrence Kensit is a brilliant computer scientist and physicist; and, Douglas Pearson is a hardware designer with strong opinions.
The Caribbean
Jamaica
Captain Craig Reed commands the Cast Away and uses her for fishing charters. Colin Porter is a friend and the captain of the Oceanaire. Bill Musgrave owns Atlas Salvage which is based in Kingston.
Martinique
1902: Ellery Scott is the first officer aboard the SS Roraima, and George Muggah is its captain. Mr. Havers is the third mate. Taylor and Quashey are some of the sailors. Gunther Lutzen is a German passenger with a fascination for photography who has almost gotten his doctorate in physics. Ingrid Lutzen is his sister in New York City. Monsieur Plessoneau is the agent on Martinique. Captain Marino Leboffe tried to leave harbor but was refused permission by the harbormaster.
Today: Captain Batiste operates a pleasure sub for tourists.
Venezuela
Puerto La Cruz
Manuel Lozada is the harbormaster for La Guanta Harbor and a reservist for the Venezuelan Navy. Gao Wang-shu, a.k.a., Fernando Wang, is a former Chinese marine who had been at the battle in Golden Buddha , 1. Captain Carlos Ortega is based in Puerto Cabello. Lieutenant Pablo Dominguez is in charge of security for the shipping operation that night.
Admiral Dayana Ruiz has her own sideline going and uses the Mariscal Sucre and its Captain Escobar to aid her plans. Captain Eduardo Garcia is in command of the Valera, and he and the Maracaibo are functioning as escort for the Reina Azul.
Cabimas Shipping is…
…owned by Ricardo Leal, and he is making noises about running for president in Venezuela. The Ciudad Bolivar is another of his ships and is captained by Maria Sandoval. Jorge is the navigator, Miguel is part of the crew, and Roberto is the helmsman.
The Doctor
Lake Péligre is where…
…Phase One of Sentinel is located in Haiti. The Doctor is in charge. Hector Bazin was born in Haiti and served as a servant to a wealthy family who mistreated him. David Pasquet is a former Haitian National Police SWAT officer and sniper. Jacques Duval is a deputy commander with the Haitian Police and was a fellow servant with Bazin when they were children.
Colombia
Alonzo Tallon is a drug trafficker. Sergio Portilla is his second-in-command who has gotten sloppy.
Miami
Brian Washburn, a two-times former governor of Florida, is quite conscientious about appearing to be a man of the people with an ambition to be president of the United States. Too bad he's not as careful in his business dealings at Washburn Industries. Gary Clement was an accountant.
Berlin
Greta is a student working at the library at the Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm Center. Herr Schmidt is the librarian.
New York City
Greg Horne owns a Global Translation Services in New York City where the late Bob Gillman worked. Jill was his receptionist. Leonard O'Shea is a delivery driver.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a nice complement of deep orange and blue from the fireworks in the sky over the burning ship in a rolling sea.
The title is the smallest part of this story, although their actions color it all, for they are like Piranha, eating whatever they can get their teeth into.
October 22, 2019
Another of my walk the dog audiobooks. As always, Cussler delivered an action packed and exciting novel.
December 17, 2022
Another science-based adventure for Juan and crew. The dialog during high stress, dangerous activities was a little over the top with its droll humor, seemingly without concern for the dangers they faced. It can be funny but there is a place where it becomes a little tiresome.
The story is well put together and written.
The story is well put together and written.
June 11, 2015
I’ve always had a soft spot for the Oregon Files series. In terms of Clive Cussler’s various subseries, it’s my favorite, if only because it’s slightly more believable for high-tech, ultra-talented do-gooder mercenaries to get involved in villainous plots than oceanographers. Plus, the Oregon is awesome. Cussler got a new coauthor for this particular volume, and I have to say that I was extremely impressed. Piranha almost manages to transcend the limitations that Clive Cussler books inherently have, and does it with style, flair, and a whole lot of action.
The crew of the Oregon fake the sinking of the ship off the coast of Venezuela in an effort to regain their anonymity. This fails miserably, because after the ship is “sunk,” the crew members are attacked by mysterious assassins. Suddenly, the crew of the Oregon are plunged into a deadly cat and mouse game with a mad scientist. And this is like no other game they have played, for their adversary has access to unlimited knowledge – and thus unlimited power.
Part of what makes Piranha so special are the villains. The mad scientist in question is a visionary nutcase who is following the NSA’s data collection program to its logical and evil conclusion. Paranoid, anti-social, and brilliant, this mad scientist won’t stop until he’s saved the world. By any means necessary. In fact, I have to say that he’s my favorite Cussler villain ever, probably because, if we’re going to be honest, he reminds me a lot of myself with all the limits gone.
Action is one thing that Cussler specializes in, and a good thing, too, because no one reads his stories for the believable plots. He and his new coauthor delivers this aplenty in Piranha, featuring more gunfights, chases, and explosions than you can shake a stick at. The writing team also manages to preserve the suspense fairly well, only revealing the villain’s plans in bits and pieces, saving the truly horrifying reveal of his plan for later on in the book. The writing is smoother, the characters wittier, and the book is just more enjoyable than Cussler’s usual fare.
There are no bloodsucking creatures in Clive Cussler’s new novel (except in a metaphorical sense). There’s just excitement, action, and adventure, as the stalwart crew of the Oregon battles their most dangerous adversary yet. From the beginning to the end, you will be enthralled by this book. This may be Morrison’s first foray into being a Cussler co-author, but I very much hope that it will not be his last.
The crew of the Oregon fake the sinking of the ship off the coast of Venezuela in an effort to regain their anonymity. This fails miserably, because after the ship is “sunk,” the crew members are attacked by mysterious assassins. Suddenly, the crew of the Oregon are plunged into a deadly cat and mouse game with a mad scientist. And this is like no other game they have played, for their adversary has access to unlimited knowledge – and thus unlimited power.
Part of what makes Piranha so special are the villains. The mad scientist in question is a visionary nutcase who is following the NSA’s data collection program to its logical and evil conclusion. Paranoid, anti-social, and brilliant, this mad scientist won’t stop until he’s saved the world. By any means necessary. In fact, I have to say that he’s my favorite Cussler villain ever, probably because, if we’re going to be honest, he reminds me a lot of myself with all the limits gone.
Action is one thing that Cussler specializes in, and a good thing, too, because no one reads his stories for the believable plots. He and his new coauthor delivers this aplenty in Piranha, featuring more gunfights, chases, and explosions than you can shake a stick at. The writing team also manages to preserve the suspense fairly well, only revealing the villain’s plans in bits and pieces, saving the truly horrifying reveal of his plan for later on in the book. The writing is smoother, the characters wittier, and the book is just more enjoyable than Cussler’s usual fare.
There are no bloodsucking creatures in Clive Cussler’s new novel (except in a metaphorical sense). There’s just excitement, action, and adventure, as the stalwart crew of the Oregon battles their most dangerous adversary yet. From the beginning to the end, you will be enthralled by this book. This may be Morrison’s first foray into being a Cussler co-author, but I very much hope that it will not be his last.
Read
October 17, 2016I did not rate this book as it would be unfair. It was well written and Cussler has gained many avid fans through delivering riveting plots . However, I was unable to connect with the characters. For me to really enjoy a novel it must have characters I can root for as well as a page-turning plot. The type page turning plots I most enjoy are those that deal with real life issues we face today.
May 29, 2015
Darn! Finished already
I think I have read almost all of the Cussler books and enjoyed most of them. This is no exception. I do think the original Pitt books were a little richer in character development, but the storyline in this one kept me reading late into the night.
I think I have read almost all of the Cussler books and enjoyed most of them. This is no exception. I do think the original Pitt books were a little richer in character development, but the storyline in this one kept me reading late into the night.
September 7, 2016
A bit odd that the titular plot piece is only the third most interesting storyline in the book.
February 5, 2017
I wasn't disappointed!
July 8, 2025
I’ll admit it: when I saw that Piranha was penned by Boyd Morrison instead of Jack Du Bruhl, I panicked a little. Du Bruhl was the one who miraculously turned what started as one of Cussler’s most mediocre spinoffs into his best one, so replacing him felt like asking a rookie to take over for your star quarterback mid-playoff.
But to my surprise, Morrison handles the transition like a pro.
The pacing, tone, and tech-heavy bravado of the “Oregon Files” are all still here, intact and humming along smoothly. The science in Piranha is... well, let's just say it's not exactly peer-reviewed. We’re talking eye-roll-worthy levels of over-the-top theoretical tech—like someone watched MythBusters and thought, “But what if we added explosions and a global threat?” Still, if you’re picking up a Cussler book expecting grounded realism, that’s on you. This one embraces its pulp roots proudly and just dares you not to have a good time. Spoiler: it’s basically impossible.
What makes this series shine (aside from the Oregon being the most absurdly awesome ship since the Nautilus) is how unafraid it is to up the violence and stakes. Unlike the often-too-cozy Dirk Pitt novels (where the hero can defuse a bomb, punch a dictator, and get the girl in time for lunch), the “Oregon Files” actually lean into the grit. Gunfights, ambushes, brutal takedowns—this is the Cussler series that isn't afraid to get its hands dirty. In fact, Morrison nudges the series so close to Jack Carr or Mark Greaney territory, it’s practically brushing shoulders with them in the high-octane aisle. It’s not quite a hyper thriller yet, but it’s certainly kicking down the door.
So yes, the plot’s outlandish, the science is questionable at best, and half the characters probably violate a few Geneva conventions but Piranha is a ridiculous blast from start to finish. Morrison’s debut in the series proves he’s not just holding the reins; he’s flooring the gas. Let’s just hope the next book doesn’t involve space lasers... or, actually, bring it on.
But to my surprise, Morrison handles the transition like a pro.
The pacing, tone, and tech-heavy bravado of the “Oregon Files” are all still here, intact and humming along smoothly. The science in Piranha is... well, let's just say it's not exactly peer-reviewed. We’re talking eye-roll-worthy levels of over-the-top theoretical tech—like someone watched MythBusters and thought, “But what if we added explosions and a global threat?” Still, if you’re picking up a Cussler book expecting grounded realism, that’s on you. This one embraces its pulp roots proudly and just dares you not to have a good time. Spoiler: it’s basically impossible.
What makes this series shine (aside from the Oregon being the most absurdly awesome ship since the Nautilus) is how unafraid it is to up the violence and stakes. Unlike the often-too-cozy Dirk Pitt novels (where the hero can defuse a bomb, punch a dictator, and get the girl in time for lunch), the “Oregon Files” actually lean into the grit. Gunfights, ambushes, brutal takedowns—this is the Cussler series that isn't afraid to get its hands dirty. In fact, Morrison nudges the series so close to Jack Carr or Mark Greaney territory, it’s practically brushing shoulders with them in the high-octane aisle. It’s not quite a hyper thriller yet, but it’s certainly kicking down the door.
So yes, the plot’s outlandish, the science is questionable at best, and half the characters probably violate a few Geneva conventions but Piranha is a ridiculous blast from start to finish. Morrison’s debut in the series proves he’s not just holding the reins; he’s flooring the gas. Let’s just hope the next book doesn’t involve space lasers... or, actually, bring it on.
June 7, 2018
The first nine books in this series were written by two different authors. This seems to be the growing trend of well know, well read authors these days but it sometimes takes the reader a few books to get accustomed to the different writing styles...hoping that yet another author won't come on the scene before the next book even gets published. Some reviewers have said that the topic was unbelievable but it is...thank heavens...fiction and the unbelievable can be given a little free reign. I really like this series...Juan Carbillo and the magnificent wonders of his ship, "The Oregon". Adventure, excitement, with a little history thrown in the mix, is always a given no matter who writes these books. Pick it up and enjoy the ride.
June 28, 2019
DUMB FUN
October 13, 2022
Really enjoyed this book
Great book and interesting plot. It kept my attention and I loved the ending. I will read the next one in the series
Great book and interesting plot. It kept my attention and I loved the ending. I will read the next one in the series
December 22, 2022
Fast paced action, page turning suspense, and unforgettable dialogues, this is Clive Cussler at peak performance. The plot is fairly simple; megalomaniac wants to conquer the world using breakthrough technology. The crew of the spy vessel Oregon must defeat the evil genius and keep the technology from being implemented for nefarious purposes. I've only read a handful of Clive Cussler's works, but this book was one of the best I've sampled.
September 20, 2020
Very good one best so far in Oregon series
July 9, 2015
Another rollicking, fun-filled, action-packed Oregon Files adventure that keeps the pages turning non-stop, this time pitting Juan Cabrillo and his intrepid crew against a mad genius scientist (and all-around conceited, stuck-up blowhard) DOCTOR Lawrence (don't call him "Larry!") Kensit, a villain who has at his disposal, among other things, (1) a Haitian mercenary army, (2) an alliance with a corrupt female Venezuelan admiral, (3) stealth mini-subs, and (4) a super-scary, super-secret, downright diabolical surveillance technology (the details of which I won't reveal here, in order to avoid a spoiler).
Random, stream-of-consciousness observations:
p. 11: wouldn't a Frenchman be using the metric rather than the English system of measurement?
p. 18: Naval Base Ventura County? As in Port Hueneme?
p. 20: Larry, er, um, excuse me, DOCTOR LAWRENCE Kensit is such a pedantic petulant provincial putz.
p. 35: Quite the upgrade from a Kel-Tec .380 to a Colt Defender .45 ACP.
.44 caliber shotgun? Shouldn't that be .410?
p. 38: "'You're a minute early. I wish my actresses had been so punctual. Often I was happy if they showed up at all. Sober.'" Haha!
p. 41: a Master Chief is NOT an "officer" (the word "officer" in "chief petty officer" notwithstanding).
p. 48: USAF PJ, hooyah!
"'Because that would make life really unfair. You can't be good at cards *and* look like an underwear model!'" Ha!
p. 49: "'I order both of you to walk the plank.'" Aaarrr matey!
p. 55: "Hugo Chávez had been her idol and she foresaw following in his footsteps." Communist harlot!
p. 104: Aahh, good ol' Tyndall AFB!
p. 124: are the ladies really gonna be able to walk away from a multiple killing at a public resort that easily, even in a case of justifiable homicide?
p. 129: wow, no kidding, is Jamaica's Ian Fleming Int'l Airport for real?
p. 137: wouldn't using the toilet paper roll as a sound suppressor risk jamming the pistol?
p. 144: a rifle round to the shoulder without an exit wound?? Not likely
p. 161: "During an average year, more than a hundred ships sink, sending two thousand sailors to a watery grave."
p. 166: again, wouldn't non-Americans (and non-Anglos) be using the metric system instead of the English measurement system?
p. 201: holy shizzle, Dirk Pitt, giggity!
p. 207: Grant "The Burn" Westfield, pro wrestler cum Army Ranger cum defense contract electrical engineer--wow, talk about a varied resume!
p. 212: St. Julien Perlmutter, giggity!
p. 215: "seaman" should read "seamen" plural
p. 221: St. Julien "solid, without a jiggle of flab visible." Really??? And I thought he *did* have a cat in the most recent Pitt or Kurt Austin novel??
p. 250: wait a minute, Stoney is unarmed and untrained for combat even though he's a Navy veteran? WTF?
pp. 264-265: speargun fight--an homage to "Thunderball?"
p. 275: "'Being VP didn't help Mondale or Gore.'" Ha! And I wonder if Gov. Washburn is modeled after Charlie Crist?
p. 340: Aahh yes, Cohiba time....
p. 345: "'And if one man like Kensit could be corrupted by that much power, **imagine what a whole government could do with it**.'" (Emphasis added)
Random, stream-of-consciousness observations:
p. 11: wouldn't a Frenchman be using the metric rather than the English system of measurement?
p. 18: Naval Base Ventura County? As in Port Hueneme?
p. 20: Larry, er, um, excuse me, DOCTOR LAWRENCE Kensit is such a pedantic petulant provincial putz.
p. 35: Quite the upgrade from a Kel-Tec .380 to a Colt Defender .45 ACP.
.44 caliber shotgun? Shouldn't that be .410?
p. 38: "'You're a minute early. I wish my actresses had been so punctual. Often I was happy if they showed up at all. Sober.'" Haha!
p. 41: a Master Chief is NOT an "officer" (the word "officer" in "chief petty officer" notwithstanding).
p. 48: USAF PJ, hooyah!
"'Because that would make life really unfair. You can't be good at cards *and* look like an underwear model!'" Ha!
p. 49: "'I order both of you to walk the plank.'" Aaarrr matey!
p. 55: "Hugo Chávez had been her idol and she foresaw following in his footsteps." Communist harlot!
p. 104: Aahh, good ol' Tyndall AFB!
p. 124: are the ladies really gonna be able to walk away from a multiple killing at a public resort that easily, even in a case of justifiable homicide?
p. 129: wow, no kidding, is Jamaica's Ian Fleming Int'l Airport for real?
p. 137: wouldn't using the toilet paper roll as a sound suppressor risk jamming the pistol?
p. 144: a rifle round to the shoulder without an exit wound?? Not likely
p. 161: "During an average year, more than a hundred ships sink, sending two thousand sailors to a watery grave."
p. 166: again, wouldn't non-Americans (and non-Anglos) be using the metric system instead of the English measurement system?
p. 201: holy shizzle, Dirk Pitt, giggity!
p. 207: Grant "The Burn" Westfield, pro wrestler cum Army Ranger cum defense contract electrical engineer--wow, talk about a varied resume!
p. 212: St. Julien Perlmutter, giggity!
p. 215: "seaman" should read "seamen" plural
p. 221: St. Julien "solid, without a jiggle of flab visible." Really??? And I thought he *did* have a cat in the most recent Pitt or Kurt Austin novel??
p. 250: wait a minute, Stoney is unarmed and untrained for combat even though he's a Navy veteran? WTF?
pp. 264-265: speargun fight--an homage to "Thunderball?"
p. 275: "'Being VP didn't help Mondale or Gore.'" Ha! And I wonder if Gov. Washburn is modeled after Charlie Crist?
p. 340: Aahh yes, Cohiba time....
p. 345: "'And if one man like Kensit could be corrupted by that much power, **imagine what a whole government could do with it**.'" (Emphasis added)
March 27, 2023
This was a frustrating book. I wanted to like it more than I did, but throughout most of the book the villain(s) are "omniscient" and practically omnipresent to the point of ridiculousness, right up to the point where they needed to start failing and the Oregon crew started faking them out and tricking them lest the bad guys win in the end. The concept behind the villains being "omniscient-until-they-just-weren't-anymore" was pretty cool, in my opinion, and had me scratching my head throughout the entire book as to how they knew what they knew and were able to practically be one step ahead of everybody else. But then it falls apart and the Oregon crew is able to save the day and save the world. The latter part of the book was a lot of fun, though, and did keep me on the edge of my seat, so that was a good thing.
The title is misleading, too, in some ways.
There were some moments in the book that I liked. I remember liking them as I read the book. Now, though, I cannot remember what those moments were, hahahah!
I'll rate it three stars because the ending saved the book. I disliked most of it enough to give it two stars. But the last one eighty, one hundred pages were really, really good and would bump it up to 2.5, 2.6 stars. So I will round it up to 3 stars. In any case, I am glad that I read the book.
The title is misleading, too, in some ways.
There were some moments in the book that I liked. I remember liking them as I read the book. Now, though, I cannot remember what those moments were, hahahah!
I'll rate it three stars because the ending saved the book. I disliked most of it enough to give it two stars. But the last one eighty, one hundred pages were really, really good and would bump it up to 2.5, 2.6 stars. So I will round it up to 3 stars. In any case, I am glad that I read the book.
May 30, 2018
Fun adventure story where teamwork and “family” are more intelligent than one genius madman.
TL;DR: magic ship with interchangeable (good looking, masters of weapons and technology, and super smart) crew fight ruthless bad guys made up of a lone tech genius and his lone gunman mercenary using their magic video camera.
A fun beach read with no stakes but lots of high tech toys that get damaged but repairable on the Good Guys side but obliterated on the Bad Guys side.
Moral of the story: be a good guy and join the navy.
——
Good guys with a magic ship and a magic truck fight a crazed genius with a magic video camera. The heroes who, since this is my first introduction to them I Couldn’t keep names and characters separate. They seemed largely interchangeable. But it’s important to remember that they are family and you don’t mess with family.
The bad guy has a magic video camera that allows him to spy on anyone at any time in any place. Essentially, he’s the ultimate Big Brother. His plan is to kill the Vice President, replace the Vice President with a new but blackmailed Vice President and then kill the President while using a crack team of Haitian special forces mercenaries who are ruthless.
The bad guys almost win. Nobody important dies except bad guys. And the most a crew member is injured is a bullet through the leg.
It seemed like a sort of wish-fulfillment fantasy. Enjoyed it but it certainly wouldn’t hold up to repeated reading.
TL;DR: magic ship with interchangeable (good looking, masters of weapons and technology, and super smart) crew fight ruthless bad guys made up of a lone tech genius and his lone gunman mercenary using their magic video camera.
A fun beach read with no stakes but lots of high tech toys that get damaged but repairable on the Good Guys side but obliterated on the Bad Guys side.
Moral of the story: be a good guy and join the navy.
——
Good guys with a magic ship and a magic truck fight a crazed genius with a magic video camera. The heroes who, since this is my first introduction to them I Couldn’t keep names and characters separate. They seemed largely interchangeable. But it’s important to remember that they are family and you don’t mess with family.
The bad guy has a magic video camera that allows him to spy on anyone at any time in any place. Essentially, he’s the ultimate Big Brother. His plan is to kill the Vice President, replace the Vice President with a new but blackmailed Vice President and then kill the President while using a crack team of Haitian special forces mercenaries who are ruthless.
The bad guys almost win. Nobody important dies except bad guys. And the most a crew member is injured is a bullet through the leg.
It seemed like a sort of wish-fulfillment fantasy. Enjoyed it but it certainly wouldn’t hold up to repeated reading.
April 2, 2016
A willingness to suspend disbelief is a prerequisite for much fiction, and a greater degree of this is always required for Cussler. The important thing is internal and external plausibility, which is usually not a problem, although in this one the use of selenium crystals with traces of copper and uranium got to me: the caves of mega crystals of selenite/gypsum have been conflated with the element selenium, a very different material and not likely to form crystal caves... Anyway, I liked the use of modern political tensions to set the drama within, and although the world ending technology is crazy, it works, and as usual the plot moves along nicely. Is there a philosophical reflection in this about omniscience not being the same as infallibility? The bad guy is unusual but only explored briefly - I would have enjoyed having him stay on as an ongoing nemesis. Good fun, but I'm good for another year at least for any more of these!
May 30, 2015
May 1902 a volcano erupts on the French Island of Martinique
with devastating force. the local population are not it's only
victims. A ship is also destroyed carrying a German scientist who
was on the verge of an astonishing discovery. A century later Juan
Cabrillo and the crew of the Oregon are about to confront the
scientist's legacy. Cabrillo and crew are forced to fake the sinking
of the Oregon during a covert operation when an unknown adversary
tracks them down despite all of their best laid plans. Their adversary
seems able to anticipate their every move. It appears that a traitorous
American weapons designer has completed the dead German's work and he
now wields extraordinary power. This could lead to the largest one
man empire the world has ever known.This is the tenth book in the
Oregon files and once again Clive Cussler comes through with
flying colors.
with devastating force. the local population are not it's only
victims. A ship is also destroyed carrying a German scientist who
was on the verge of an astonishing discovery. A century later Juan
Cabrillo and the crew of the Oregon are about to confront the
scientist's legacy. Cabrillo and crew are forced to fake the sinking
of the Oregon during a covert operation when an unknown adversary
tracks them down despite all of their best laid plans. Their adversary
seems able to anticipate their every move. It appears that a traitorous
American weapons designer has completed the dead German's work and he
now wields extraordinary power. This could lead to the largest one
man empire the world has ever known.This is the tenth book in the
Oregon files and once again Clive Cussler comes through with
flying colors.
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