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Sam Reilly #14
The Phoenix Sanction
On board Phoenix Airlines Flight 320, Andrew Goddard awakens to discover the cockpit empty and all the passengers unconscious.
In the Colorado Monarch Mountains, an old gold miner discovers a fiendish stone mask sealed inside an obsidian chamber.
Sam Reilly has just three weeks to find out how the two unlikely events are connected, and the secret behind it might change everything we thought we knew about humanity.
In the Colorado Monarch Mountains, an old gold miner discovers a fiendish stone mask sealed inside an obsidian chamber.
Sam Reilly has just three weeks to find out how the two unlikely events are connected, and the secret behind it might change everything we thought we knew about humanity.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2018
371 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Cartwright
73 books250 followersChristopher Cartwright writes spellbinding mysteries and suspense novels. Often with a backdrop of ocean adventure. Born in 1983, he has a background as a paramedic, and is an avid sailor and SCUBA diver.
He holds degrees in paramedics, nursing and emergency management.
Chris currently lives in Sydney with his wife and two children.
He holds degrees in paramedics, nursing and emergency management.
Chris currently lives in Sydney with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 7, 2022
If you’re not gonna make a full commitment to the series there is no character development. The action was extremely well written. I’m still on the fence whether I’m going to commit.
November 28, 2019
Interesting
This was an interesting and enjoyable read and features a bit more dry land than some If the recent components of the story. The search is on for a key left by the Master Builders that will create a new but not necessarily better future
This was an interesting and enjoyable read and features a bit more dry land than some If the recent components of the story. The search is on for a key left by the Master Builders that will create a new but not necessarily better future
June 21, 2024
Much Ado, Budumbum
The elaborate theoretical background, introduced by the titillating pseudo-historical tale, promises a deeply significant story, but it comes to nothing. Moreover, the editor and proofreader were evidently asleep. Consider some gross errors: “It’s much harder said than done” (think about that, now); “It was nearly four miles to their south, which [what does “which” refer to?] took them forty-two minutes to reach.”
One chapter’s opening two-sentence paragraph contains two bloopers: “Sam and Tom spent the next four days POURING over satellite images. . . . a list of SHIP’S that passed the Strait of Gibraltar.”
The author’s prose is redundant. He seems immune to the sound of repetition, whether of sound or of meaning: “He followed Jen into the main chamber. The main chamber was roughly circular”; “the previousLY seemingLY invincible Ottomans”; “Sam expelled a deep breath of air as they tore away with the breeze in his hair, as every second took them farther away from their attackers”; “At the end of the canal it opened up to a much wider river” [meaning, “At the end of the canal the canal opened . . .” Why not just “Further ahead the canal opened . . .”?]
Cartwright composes in haste and doesn’t bother to read his own work critically or make sure that those who get paid to do so actually do their jobs.
The elaborate theoretical background, introduced by the titillating pseudo-historical tale, promises a deeply significant story, but it comes to nothing. Moreover, the editor and proofreader were evidently asleep. Consider some gross errors: “It’s much harder said than done” (think about that, now); “It was nearly four miles to their south, which [what does “which” refer to?] took them forty-two minutes to reach.”
One chapter’s opening two-sentence paragraph contains two bloopers: “Sam and Tom spent the next four days POURING over satellite images. . . . a list of SHIP’S that passed the Strait of Gibraltar.”
The author’s prose is redundant. He seems immune to the sound of repetition, whether of sound or of meaning: “He followed Jen into the main chamber. The main chamber was roughly circular”; “the previousLY seemingLY invincible Ottomans”; “Sam expelled a deep breath of air as they tore away with the breeze in his hair, as every second took them farther away from their attackers”; “At the end of the canal it opened up to a much wider river” [meaning, “At the end of the canal the canal opened . . .” Why not just “Further ahead the canal opened . . .”?]
Cartwright composes in haste and doesn’t bother to read his own work critically or make sure that those who get paid to do so actually do their jobs.
November 8, 2018
Enjoyed the further adventures of Sam Reilly but is it just me or do the books now begin to read like a further chapter and are no where as long a read as before.
August 17, 2023
I love this series. I think they could use a a lot of editing, less details about ships, weaponry, cars, etc. and more emphasis on the intense scenes. Many times throughout the series, I find myself feeling nervous, claustrophobic, in suspense, and flipping pages to get to the next scenes, which I enjoy a lot. Those bits that draw on about specific details, brand names, or mechanics take me out of the action sometimes.
I do also question if there are enough edits to paraphrase information about locations found online. I love that in this series, I find myself googling places I’ve never heard of, and I often find the travel to be the most immersive element. However, when I do a search online to look up a place and get a visual while reading, I often come across a very very similarly written article to the books.
Two other issues: there is an overarching plot that is the most interesting bit, but in the later books, some of the original details don’t seem to add up anymore. I may not be far enough to see it come together, so take that with a grain of salt. And, the descriptions of female characters can be a little jarring. Every woman seems to be fit, with lithe muscles and perfect teeth and a Lara Croft personality. Even more bookish, older, or one-off female characters are subject to this brush over. I enjoy the individuality of each one’s backstories, but I think some variety in appearance, or at least better initial descriptions than their…physical attributes…would be appreciated, too!
All of that being said, I’ve almost caught up to the currently published book and I have no intention of stopping the series. I loved the Uncharted games, and this reminds me heavily of that style. Action, adventure, thrilling discoveries, and an overarching plot which is generally well thought out.
I do also question if there are enough edits to paraphrase information about locations found online. I love that in this series, I find myself googling places I’ve never heard of, and I often find the travel to be the most immersive element. However, when I do a search online to look up a place and get a visual while reading, I often come across a very very similarly written article to the books.
Two other issues: there is an overarching plot that is the most interesting bit, but in the later books, some of the original details don’t seem to add up anymore. I may not be far enough to see it come together, so take that with a grain of salt. And, the descriptions of female characters can be a little jarring. Every woman seems to be fit, with lithe muscles and perfect teeth and a Lara Croft personality. Even more bookish, older, or one-off female characters are subject to this brush over. I enjoy the individuality of each one’s backstories, but I think some variety in appearance, or at least better initial descriptions than their…physical attributes…would be appreciated, too!
All of that being said, I’ve almost caught up to the currently published book and I have no intention of stopping the series. I loved the Uncharted games, and this reminds me heavily of that style. Action, adventure, thrilling discoveries, and an overarching plot which is generally well thought out.
August 23, 2019
The story revolves around the Eternity masks; a collection of seven carved masks representing the seven Homo-species of the Homo Group; i.e., Homo heidelbergensis, Homo rudolfensis, Homo habilis, Homo erectus, Homo floresiensis, Homo neanderthalensis, and Homo sapiens. Should the masks wind up in the wrong hands it could release the dreaded Phoenix Plague. (I tried researching these masks to see if they were real but only came up with references to two RPG PC games; King’s Quest and Pillars of Eternity.) As in earlier Sam Reilly adventures references to the Master Builders arose. The story is exciting, with historical and imaginary facts abounding. I enjoy the Sam Reilly series and will definitely read more of the volumes. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
May 12, 2025
After a prologue that tells us what really happened to Amelia Earhardt, Cartwright gives us his best opening chapter yet. An art collector wakes on a transatlantic flight to discover that all of the other passengers are unconscious and there is no one flying the plane. The growing suspense is amazing and includes elements that just defy reason (but actually make sense by the end of the novel). That chapter had me racing through the rest of the novel trying to figure out what was really going on.
And what was going on? It's more craziness involving the machinations of the ancient builders. Sam and Tom race around the world trying to find out first what happened to that plane, and then to try and uncover a millennium-old secret before the bad guys do. As a complication, people Sam can usually count on as allies are among the bad guys this time.
This one is a lot of fun.
And what was going on? It's more craziness involving the machinations of the ancient builders. Sam and Tom race around the world trying to find out first what happened to that plane, and then to try and uncover a millennium-old secret before the bad guys do. As a complication, people Sam can usually count on as allies are among the bad guys this time.
This one is a lot of fun.
October 25, 2018
hiding in plain sight
well done Chris
another successful adventure in the life of Sam Reilly. I love all the twists and turns that your stories take, how you manage to knit all the different threads together. Will they ever find the traitor in the government, what other devious plots are going to be uncovered. that's what I like about these books, they are all individual but have a common link. this always has me waiting in anticipation of your next novel. keep writing Chris, love your books..
well done Chris
another successful adventure in the life of Sam Reilly. I love all the twists and turns that your stories take, how you manage to knit all the different threads together. Will they ever find the traitor in the government, what other devious plots are going to be uncovered. that's what I like about these books, they are all individual but have a common link. this always has me waiting in anticipation of your next novel. keep writing Chris, love your books..
April 30, 2019
The Phoenix Sanction, my fourteenth read from author Christopher Cartwright & the fourteenth book in the highly entertaining Sam Reilly series. What's happened to the ocean & water as of late? Well-written thriller with captivating & well-developed main characters. Reminds me of Dan Brown’s writing. These books have been a rollicking adventure & I’ll be reading more by this author as I already own more books in the series and am looking for sales to buy more yet! (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
July 30, 2020
Just finished number 14 book of the series & I am amazed at the input of the facts & figures that relate to the story background, how many islands make up Venice etc. The stories are fascinating in the ups & downs of each book & how they all relate, to each other as the story continues through each book. The cause & effect of the Master Builders is great & the history of Malta is eye opening as the background is quite true. Chris Cartwright obviously did a lot of research on all his books. A great book to read as all in the series to date, are.
October 25, 2018
Brilliant series
I absolutely loved this entire series and hope it continues for a long time to come. I really wanna find out if sam and his team will find the answers they are looking for. The entire series swept me away with how easy to read and how fast paced each book is and along the way there is knowledge to be had some historic and some current. Now I just have to wait for book 15 please don't let it be too long
I absolutely loved this entire series and hope it continues for a long time to come. I really wanna find out if sam and his team will find the answers they are looking for. The entire series swept me away with how easy to read and how fast paced each book is and along the way there is knowledge to be had some historic and some current. Now I just have to wait for book 15 please don't let it be too long
May 14, 2020
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
Back to his best. I have not enjoyed the last few Sam Reilly books for some reason as much but with this one Christopher Cartwright is back to his best. This time Sam must investigate a mysterious mask found deep in the mountains and the links to a mysterious flight were one passenger is the only one left conscious for some reason. Mix in a bit of Amelia Earhart and what you have is an exciting mix of adventure and drama and a man trying to save the world.
Back to his best. I have not enjoyed the last few Sam Reilly books for some reason as much but with this one Christopher Cartwright is back to his best. This time Sam must investigate a mysterious mask found deep in the mountains and the links to a mysterious flight were one passenger is the only one left conscious for some reason. Mix in a bit of Amelia Earhart and what you have is an exciting mix of adventure and drama and a man trying to save the world.
August 24, 2019
•audiobook•
I don’t think the book description truly captured this book’s mystery and enigma.
The masks were important, but equally intriguing was weaving Goodall and disappearing planes and passengers. (No, we aren’t in the Bermuda Triangle.)
I like the stories, but I find climax and clues lacking. The characters are condescending when they explain their field expertise to others; and this is a recurring personality throughout the series.
I like the imagination and creativity but really wish the author would spend more time to develop the story delivery and characters.
I didn’t like how the Phoenix was brought up again in this book, yet immediately squashed.
I don’t think the book description truly captured this book’s mystery and enigma.
The masks were important, but equally intriguing was weaving Goodall and disappearing planes and passengers. (No, we aren’t in the Bermuda Triangle.)
I like the stories, but I find climax and clues lacking. The characters are condescending when they explain their field expertise to others; and this is a recurring personality throughout the series.
I like the imagination and creativity but really wish the author would spend more time to develop the story delivery and characters.
I didn’t like how the Phoenix was brought up again in this book, yet immediately squashed.
August 7, 2021
Excellent Storyline
Great novel that you won’t want to put down. High adventure, incredible mysteries, that just keep coming. My only complaint is that the ending is contrived and very abrupt not to say totally out of character. Actually all of the characters are out of their norms in the climax and it leaves you with more questions than answers. Still worth the time!
Great novel that you won’t want to put down. High adventure, incredible mysteries, that just keep coming. My only complaint is that the ending is contrived and very abrupt not to say totally out of character. Actually all of the characters are out of their norms in the climax and it leaves you with more questions than answers. Still worth the time!
January 10, 2024
The Mystery of Amelia Earhart Solved
A science-fiction book based on Earth. Cartwright stories are loaded with science, imaginative plots, and geographical settings that capture my spur my interest.
Anyone with a spark of adventure would enjoy this book.
Having traveled extensively in Europe, I want to visit Malta..
A science-fiction book based on Earth. Cartwright stories are loaded with science, imaginative plots, and geographical settings that capture my spur my interest.
Anyone with a spark of adventure would enjoy this book.
Having traveled extensively in Europe, I want to visit Malta..
October 25, 2018
I still want to hear about the new ship!
Two books in a row w/ nothing other than a casual mention about the Maria Helena’s replacement. I don’t know why that is so important to me, because the books are still amazing. I can’t wait to see what is next!!
Two books in a row w/ nothing other than a casual mention about the Maria Helena’s replacement. I don’t know why that is so important to me, because the books are still amazing. I can’t wait to see what is next!!
October 31, 2018
Sam Reilly returns
Another Master Builders mystery, but this one wasn’t quite as action packed as the previous ones. Still a well developed story line and believable characters, though. Interesting ending, but kind of disconnected!
Another Master Builders mystery, but this one wasn’t quite as action packed as the previous ones. Still a well developed story line and believable characters, though. Interesting ending, but kind of disconnected!
November 14, 2018
Great book
Once again Christopher Cartwright has written an excellent book. Lots of intrigue and action keeps the story moving right along. I do hope more books in this series is forthcoming.
Once again Christopher Cartwright has written an excellent book. Lots of intrigue and action keeps the story moving right along. I do hope more books in this series is forthcoming.
November 21, 2018
Excellent but a query
Story fast and exciting as usual, but the story seemed to have glossed over the return of all those passengers after being declared dead. Even Goddard have no indication of what was expected of them on their return.
Story fast and exciting as usual, but the story seemed to have glossed over the return of all those passengers after being declared dead. Even Goddard have no indication of what was expected of them on their return.
December 21, 2018
The phoenix sanction
Wow, Chris Cartwright never disappoints. Action, adventure and what an ending. This has ended my 14 book binge and I am devastated. You have obtained a follower for life. Thank you Chris.
Wow, Chris Cartwright never disappoints. Action, adventure and what an ending. This has ended my 14 book binge and I am devastated. You have obtained a follower for life. Thank you Chris.
July 11, 2019
Great
Another great story by Christopher Cartwright. I enjoy reading these stories of adventures throughout the world. True or not it's great to think about these places and adventures.
Another great story by Christopher Cartwright. I enjoy reading these stories of adventures throughout the world. True or not it's great to think about these places and adventures.
December 1, 2019
Another good story!
Leaving this review as three stars because of the ending. One of the most abrupt endings in the series with nothing explained. As the series goes on this seems to be more commonplace unfortunately.
Leaving this review as three stars because of the ending. One of the most abrupt endings in the series with nothing explained. As the series goes on this seems to be more commonplace unfortunately.
May 15, 2020
Adventure and action
James Bond type character, working with the government has one action filled adventure after another. Sometimes he is useful to the government sometimes he is lucky not to get killed. Most books refer to an ancient race but not all.
James Bond type character, working with the government has one action filled adventure after another. Sometimes he is useful to the government sometimes he is lucky not to get killed. Most books refer to an ancient race but not all.
June 26, 2020
Excellent Thriller
Another outstanding Sam Reilly adventure novel that starts off fast and only accelerates from there. There are the usual test and turns, but with an interesting turn at the end. Getting ready to start book 15.
Another outstanding Sam Reilly adventure novel that starts off fast and only accelerates from there. There are the usual test and turns, but with an interesting turn at the end. Getting ready to start book 15.
August 28, 2020
Nice Read
Historical fiction combined with fantasy provided very enjoyable reading in this case paced Sam Reilly adventure. The inclusion of technical facts added to the illusion of reality.
Historical fiction combined with fantasy provided very enjoyable reading in this case paced Sam Reilly adventure. The inclusion of technical facts added to the illusion of reality.
March 4, 2021
Phoenix
A relatively good read. It intermingled science fiction with historical information about the various locations in the book. The author has written the book in a similar manner to books written by Clive Cussler.
A relatively good read. It intermingled science fiction with historical information about the various locations in the book. The author has written the book in a similar manner to books written by Clive Cussler.
April 10, 2021
Amazing
Another well written story continuing this incredible series about Sam Reilly and his team and their search for answers regarding the Master Builders plans for humanity. Great read
Another well written story continuing this incredible series about Sam Reilly and his team and their search for answers regarding the Master Builders plans for humanity. Great read
April 13, 2023
Once again Sam Reilly has to save the world. What I like about these books is the long intro before the main character enters the story, and the exotic locations he travels to. It is like reading a travel brochure on steroids.
January 13, 2024
Sam Reilly book, need I say more?
Cartwright always weaves a good, twisted plot that never fails to draw one in...hook-line-and-sinker. The characters are always full blown, bigger than life!
Cartwright always weaves a good, twisted plot that never fails to draw one in...hook-line-and-sinker. The characters are always full blown, bigger than life!
August 31, 2024
Sam Reilly is like a modern day Captain America…. Super-hero who is capable of accomplishing anything. Lots of good action scenes but like many of the Cartwright books, the storyline is so far out there that it’s impossible to truly comprehend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews