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Echoes of Pangaea #1
Bestiarii
The Mexican civil war had been grinding on for so long that the U.S. resorted to using private contractors—mercenaries—to prop up the failing Mexican Army. One of the many things the Mexican Army failed to protect was Pangaea, the famed animal park in remote northeast Mexico, a symbol of rampant capitalism. All the creatures inside were killed at the time. At least, that’s what was reported.
For his estranged son Michael’s high school graduation, hotel mogul Roger Rudd splurged on a rare and expensive hunting trip in Mexico, hoping it would bring them closer. To get there, they hitched a ride down on one of the contractors’ helicopters, picking up Tina Echevarria, a beautiful and feisty Mexican graduate student, along the way.
But when the helicopter crashes in the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, its combat-seasoned contractor crew, led by Irishman Seamus O’Malley, will have to lead the disparate group on a cross-country scramble, trying not only to evade guerilla fighters, but also the prolific and savage offspring of the artificially-created animals once filling Pangaea. Animals thought to be eradicated a generation before, when Pangaea’s walls were breached. Animals called theropods by the park officials… but known to the rest of world as dinosaurs.
For his estranged son Michael’s high school graduation, hotel mogul Roger Rudd splurged on a rare and expensive hunting trip in Mexico, hoping it would bring them closer. To get there, they hitched a ride down on one of the contractors’ helicopters, picking up Tina Echevarria, a beautiful and feisty Mexican graduate student, along the way.
But when the helicopter crashes in the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, its combat-seasoned contractor crew, led by Irishman Seamus O’Malley, will have to lead the disparate group on a cross-country scramble, trying not only to evade guerilla fighters, but also the prolific and savage offspring of the artificially-created animals once filling Pangaea. Animals thought to be eradicated a generation before, when Pangaea’s walls were breached. Animals called theropods by the park officials… but known to the rest of world as dinosaurs.
- GenresScience FictionDinosaurs
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2022
320 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 24, 2018
Very cool premise with a well thought out backstory that sounded way more interesting than the book actually was. 70% ended up being hiking through the Mexican wild while the characters were all hurt, 20% gun battles, 5% unfamiliar Spanish phrases that needed to be translated, and 5% dinosaurs. The cover was very misleading and the title was in reference to one chapter near the end. If there weren't dinosaurs in the book it would have been a fairly sub par search and rescue book.
June 27, 2019
I found the book interesting in following the allies and the rebels throughout the novel as war ensures, but there was not enough backstory about the creation of the dinosaurs and the future for them given their existence in a wartorn country. The chapters that follow the characters along in the jungle went on and on and then story wraps too quickly and as expected, given the foreshadowing.
June 1, 2018
This was a really good book. Easily in my top 3 of this year. Plausible yet not silly. It was action packed and pretty darn realistic for a dinosaur book. I really liked the character Seamus. I hope a part 2 is coming although this is a complete book on it's own.
July 19, 2020
Wrong Title and Cover for this story.
I enjoyed this book, though it was not quite what I expected. If you like mostly military action, with a few dinosaurs thrown in, it's a fun read. I feel a little mislead by the cover, as dinosaurs were not primary in the story. Their existence helped fuel the reason for the plot, but they were not a part of the plot itself. They were more a part of the setting, and don't really enter the story until the 2nd half of the book.
The other thing that drove me nuts was the constant head-hopping within scenes. In one paragraph you're inside one character's head, and the next you're in another's. After a while I tired of having to pause and ask, "Wait, who are we talking about here?" This is the primary reason I didn't rush through this book.
What the author did do well was incorporate his knowledge of guns, military aircraft, politics, and such. His cover should have been about this instead of dinosaurs.
But it's not what I paid for.
So if you like military, this book is entertaining like a Segal or Van Dam movie. If you want dinosaurs, go elsewhere.
I enjoyed this book, though it was not quite what I expected. If you like mostly military action, with a few dinosaurs thrown in, it's a fun read. I feel a little mislead by the cover, as dinosaurs were not primary in the story. Their existence helped fuel the reason for the plot, but they were not a part of the plot itself. They were more a part of the setting, and don't really enter the story until the 2nd half of the book.
The other thing that drove me nuts was the constant head-hopping within scenes. In one paragraph you're inside one character's head, and the next you're in another's. After a while I tired of having to pause and ask, "Wait, who are we talking about here?" This is the primary reason I didn't rush through this book.
What the author did do well was incorporate his knowledge of guns, military aircraft, politics, and such. His cover should have been about this instead of dinosaurs.
But it's not what I paid for.
So if you like military, this book is entertaining like a Segal or Van Dam movie. If you want dinosaurs, go elsewhere.
May 14, 2019
3 Stars
If you're a dinosaur lover this book will be a disappointment. Interaction with dinosaurs is far and in-between. The story is mainly about rebel guerrillas trying to kidnap a rich man's daughter.
If you're a dinosaur lover this book will be a disappointment. Interaction with dinosaurs is far and in-between. The story is mainly about rebel guerrillas trying to kidnap a rich man's daughter.
April 10, 2022
Excellent novel
First, all the good. And there's a lot of it. I read some of the reviews that claimed there were no dinosaurs until half way in the book. Not accurate. There are dinosaurs at the very beginning and the then the author goes to work making us care for the characters. A masterful work of story telling. Seamus, Rita (or Tina, depending on who's talking), the Rudds, you end up caring for all of them. Benny, the bodyguard is a well fleshed out character, even if he is not the central focus of the story. There are plenty of characters all with their own distinct voices. Very well done. This is not Jurassic Park and does not pretend to be. The author recognizes the predecessor, but moves on to a great story of war torn Mexico, kidnapping and crime. There are many stories going on, some in detail, some just for flavor and color. All good. Now for the bad. Needs editing, as in a lot of editing. And, if you are going to put Spanish in the book get a native speaker to help. Don't trust Google translate or whatever defective tool was used here. This was quite unfortunate because it does take away from a great novel. I almost gave it 4stars, but the story and characters were good enough to make me overlook the terrible editing and the assassination of the Spanish language. To put this n perspective, I don't that no I'll read other works by this author. At least not for now. Good book.
First, all the good. And there's a lot of it. I read some of the reviews that claimed there were no dinosaurs until half way in the book. Not accurate. There are dinosaurs at the very beginning and the then the author goes to work making us care for the characters. A masterful work of story telling. Seamus, Rita (or Tina, depending on who's talking), the Rudds, you end up caring for all of them. Benny, the bodyguard is a well fleshed out character, even if he is not the central focus of the story. There are plenty of characters all with their own distinct voices. Very well done. This is not Jurassic Park and does not pretend to be. The author recognizes the predecessor, but moves on to a great story of war torn Mexico, kidnapping and crime. There are many stories going on, some in detail, some just for flavor and color. All good. Now for the bad. Needs editing, as in a lot of editing. And, if you are going to put Spanish in the book get a native speaker to help. Don't trust Google translate or whatever defective tool was used here. This was quite unfortunate because it does take away from a great novel. I almost gave it 4stars, but the story and characters were good enough to make me overlook the terrible editing and the assassination of the Spanish language. To put this n perspective, I don't that no I'll read other works by this author. At least not for now. Good book.
February 7, 2024
Dinosaur fiction is hard to come by, for whatever reason. Quality dinosaur fiction, outside of Carnosaur and JP, is scant at best. This shouldn't even be considered dinosaur fiction. It's military fiction with a tiny tinge of dinosaur presence. I took notes so there would be zero exaggeration:
Not a single dinosaur interaction occurs until 369 pages into this 492-page novel. Before then, a few mentions in dialogue and two half-page descriptions of vague "dino action" if it could be called that. Good Lord.
The writing itself is fine and entertaining, I enjoyed the character Seamus leagues more than anyone else, and the plot itself was pretty solid. But in the end it should've kicked the dinosaur element to the curb, having forced readers to wait 368 pages to get what they came for. As much as a gun-guy I am, and fond of technical accuracies, sometimes this book spends several pages explaining a weapon or cartridge, the narration gets bogged down easily.
If you like military fiction and YA characters, but don't care that much about dinosaurs, this one is for you.
Not a single dinosaur interaction occurs until 369 pages into this 492-page novel. Before then, a few mentions in dialogue and two half-page descriptions of vague "dino action" if it could be called that. Good Lord.
The writing itself is fine and entertaining, I enjoyed the character Seamus leagues more than anyone else, and the plot itself was pretty solid. But in the end it should've kicked the dinosaur element to the curb, having forced readers to wait 368 pages to get what they came for. As much as a gun-guy I am, and fond of technical accuracies, sometimes this book spends several pages explaining a weapon or cartridge, the narration gets bogged down easily.
If you like military fiction and YA characters, but don't care that much about dinosaurs, this one is for you.
October 29, 2019
A well-written book with ample research; no question there. The issues, for me, begin with the misleading cover and title. The neo-dinosaur aspect is more of a token additive to keep you hanging in the balance. It was never the focus. On a personal side note, while I fault the trend of our current society and Hollywood (media, in general) for emasculating men, this novel is the extreme opposite. It’s a “machismo” kind of book. If you think you’d enjoy detailed tactical warfare amid the mercenaries and guerrillas of a new world Mexico, lengthy backstory on firearm history, along with a smudge of sexism—this is your perfect book. If you favor things with a little more balance, mystery, intrigue, relational development—as in, enough emotional cues to cause you to care about characters (with the exception of Seamus, who was very likeable) and whether they die or get to live or, say, you like a good animal/predator adventure, this is not it.
June 10, 2018
Came for the dinos stayed for the action and characters
As usual I got this book because I'm always looking for a Jurassic park type adventure ,when I first started reading i thought were are the dinos? After reading the first few chapters i realized that this is so much more,this is not a Jurassic park knockoff "and I mean this in the best way". This is a story of people and there trials in a harsh land of man eating monsters and heartless rebels ,I loved the characters,the plot is well executed and the author's writing style is so vivid that I can easily picture each scene in my mind. I really enjoyed this book i will definitely check out his other books , for anyone who loves a good action /adventure this is a MUST READ.
As usual I got this book because I'm always looking for a Jurassic park type adventure ,when I first started reading i thought were are the dinos? After reading the first few chapters i realized that this is so much more,this is not a Jurassic park knockoff "and I mean this in the best way". This is a story of people and there trials in a harsh land of man eating monsters and heartless rebels ,I loved the characters,the plot is well executed and the author's writing style is so vivid that I can easily picture each scene in my mind. I really enjoyed this book i will definitely check out his other books , for anyone who loves a good action /adventure this is a MUST READ.
July 9, 2018
Title: Bestiarii
Author: James Tarr
Publication Date: Feb 2018
Genre: Sci-Fi
Score: 3.5/5
Bestiarii is a novel about a futuristic war fought in Mexico and recreated dinosaurs, à la Jurassic Park, that have been released by terrorists. Two men are on an illegal hunting trip and get caught up in the war. They embark on a harrowing cross-country trip running for their lives after crashing in their transport helicopter.
This is a popcorn read- it tastes good but is ultimately not very satisfying. This is a plot-driven book all the way and does a good job. I’m giving it a 3.5/5 because it dragged in the middle. It had a rip-roaring finish though. I find this typical of Kindle Unlimited books in general- decent, but not great.
Author: James Tarr
Publication Date: Feb 2018
Genre: Sci-Fi
Score: 3.5/5
Bestiarii is a novel about a futuristic war fought in Mexico and recreated dinosaurs, à la Jurassic Park, that have been released by terrorists. Two men are on an illegal hunting trip and get caught up in the war. They embark on a harrowing cross-country trip running for their lives after crashing in their transport helicopter.
This is a popcorn read- it tastes good but is ultimately not very satisfying. This is a plot-driven book all the way and does a good job. I’m giving it a 3.5/5 because it dragged in the middle. It had a rip-roaring finish though. I find this typical of Kindle Unlimited books in general- decent, but not great.
May 29, 2020
What a romp. Just finished reading this wonderful, action packed thriller. The story started out a little slow for me, but it is worth it towards the end. This story's title is fitting because the main characters were trying to survive against the bad guys (beasts) along with a few dinosaurs thrown in. I first thought it was going to be a Safari hunt of a sort, but it turned out not to be the case -- better.
The story's climax was satisfying with a lot of tense moments. How the author was able to throw in humor along the way was a great touch. My favorite character was Seamus. I think that lad deserves his own novel and sequel.
Highly recommend this story to people that love Tom Clancy type of novel.
The story's climax was satisfying with a lot of tense moments. How the author was able to throw in humor along the way was a great touch. My favorite character was Seamus. I think that lad deserves his own novel and sequel.
Highly recommend this story to people that love Tom Clancy type of novel.
February 10, 2021
This book I chose to read because I love reading about dinosaurs. What I got was immersed in a war in Mexico, a helicopter crash, and chased by soldiers of the war who were after the daughter of one of the richest men in Mexico. And mixed up in the whole thing was a hotel chain founder and his teenage son. There weren't as many dinosaurs as I thought there would be but that didn't matter. The action moved so fast that I couldn't wait to read the next chapter.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a book that grabs you and makes you part of the action.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a book that grabs you and makes you part of the action.
May 19, 2021
Lots of action
My reason for choosing this story was because of dinosaurs. This was a story of mercenaries, Mexican cartels, corrupt governments. Said mercenaries trying to rescue and keep safe millionaires both American and Mexican. It was a good story but way too much in depth discussion of weapons and different ammunitions. As for dinosaurs two small mentions at approximately 50% of the way into the story, and some interaction at 75%. Lots of helicopters, battles between factions. But if you're looking for a story with lots of dinosaurs it will disappoint.
My reason for choosing this story was because of dinosaurs. This was a story of mercenaries, Mexican cartels, corrupt governments. Said mercenaries trying to rescue and keep safe millionaires both American and Mexican. It was a good story but way too much in depth discussion of weapons and different ammunitions. As for dinosaurs two small mentions at approximately 50% of the way into the story, and some interaction at 75%. Lots of helicopters, battles between factions. But if you're looking for a story with lots of dinosaurs it will disappoint.
May 17, 2022
Stephen Hunter has some stuff competition!
I have read almost of Hunter's books and almost all of the Jack Teacher novels. They all keep you up late turning pages. James Tarr's books I have found to be even better. Having long enjoyed his accurate writings on several notes Gun publications I saw novel in Good Reads by Tarr and tried it. Have been hooked ever since, reading everything I can find by James Tarr. I Have enjoyed every work, found no faults, and eagerly am searching for more.
I have read almost of Hunter's books and almost all of the Jack Teacher novels. They all keep you up late turning pages. James Tarr's books I have found to be even better. Having long enjoyed his accurate writings on several notes Gun publications I saw novel in Good Reads by Tarr and tried it. Have been hooked ever since, reading everything I can find by James Tarr. I Have enjoyed every work, found no faults, and eagerly am searching for more.
June 26, 2022
If you're ever in the mood for a well-written action-adventure novel which reads like a good Michael Bay movie, check out this book.
I came across this novel never having heard of the author before and decided to give it a shot. And am I glad I did !
Solid writing, intelligent plotting, tons of action, and a very explosive, very grand, and very satisfying finale' which left my ears ringing from all the shooting and explosions and yelling and chaos.
I'm definitely going to check out Mr. Tarr's other books.
I came across this novel never having heard of the author before and decided to give it a shot. And am I glad I did !
Solid writing, intelligent plotting, tons of action, and a very explosive, very grand, and very satisfying finale' which left my ears ringing from all the shooting and explosions and yelling and chaos.
I'm definitely going to check out Mr. Tarr's other books.
August 2, 2022
Unbelievably Exciting!
The 5 star rating doesn't do justice for this story. After their Blackhawk helicopter crashes, the main characters, who survived, are chased by Mexican guerillas. Apparently, one of the survivors was being sought after. But, who? As they evaded their pursuers, their encounters with some prehistoric creatures didn't help any in their getaway. The story was thrilling all the way to the end. Recommending this story is one thing, but reading it is another. Enjoy!
The 5 star rating doesn't do justice for this story. After their Blackhawk helicopter crashes, the main characters, who survived, are chased by Mexican guerillas. Apparently, one of the survivors was being sought after. But, who? As they evaded their pursuers, their encounters with some prehistoric creatures didn't help any in their getaway. The story was thrilling all the way to the end. Recommending this story is one thing, but reading it is another. Enjoy!
September 20, 2022
Dinosaurs and guerrillas.
Going on a dinosaur hunt may be every kids dream, but in the guerilla held areas of Mexico is no fun.
Mike and his dad are on the trip of a lifetime when something goes wrong. A small group of people survive the helicopter crash and go on the run. They don't know who is after them, but they don't want get caught.
They need heroes to survive. Mike Rudd never thought of himself as one, but is soon forced to become one.
An excellent book for all lovers of dinosaurs and of hidden warfare.
Going on a dinosaur hunt may be every kids dream, but in the guerilla held areas of Mexico is no fun.
Mike and his dad are on the trip of a lifetime when something goes wrong. A small group of people survive the helicopter crash and go on the run. They don't know who is after them, but they don't want get caught.
They need heroes to survive. Mike Rudd never thought of himself as one, but is soon forced to become one.
An excellent book for all lovers of dinosaurs and of hidden warfare.
December 5, 2018
Fast & bloody
The concept of dinosaurs genetically engineered is not new. The story is not complicated.The characters straight forward with no real surprises. This is a book you read because you like action, a straight forward plot. That is an informational start then all breaks loose. Lots of blood & lots of people die. This is an easy & straight forward book to read. I would recommend it!
The concept of dinosaurs genetically engineered is not new. The story is not complicated.The characters straight forward with no real surprises. This is a book you read because you like action, a straight forward plot. That is an informational start then all breaks loose. Lots of blood & lots of people die. This is an easy & straight forward book to read. I would recommend it!
January 26, 2019
Action packed, interesting plot
I really enjoyed this book, not spellbinding but lots of action. I was expecting more dinosaurs but they showed up towards the end in a big, nasty way. The plot was interesting and the characters were great. Especially Shamus. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes military shootem ups, big guns and bad as* fighters. Oh, and lots of blood.
I really enjoyed this book, not spellbinding but lots of action. I was expecting more dinosaurs but they showed up towards the end in a big, nasty way. The plot was interesting and the characters were great. Especially Shamus. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes military shootem ups, big guns and bad as* fighters. Oh, and lots of blood.
April 14, 2020
Action packed but not Jurrasic Park.
If you're looking for a good book with a lot of action and decent charActers then you will enjoy this one. If you're looking for a Jurrasic Park type thriller then this doesn't quite get there. The dinosaus weren't really in on the action until the last third of the story. Even then you could pretty much sub in any large cornered animal and have nearly the same story. I still enjoyed the book though.
If you're looking for a good book with a lot of action and decent charActers then you will enjoy this one. If you're looking for a Jurrasic Park type thriller then this doesn't quite get there. The dinosaus weren't really in on the action until the last third of the story. Even then you could pretty much sub in any large cornered animal and have nearly the same story. I still enjoyed the book though.
June 12, 2020
WhoooooHoooooo Dinosaurs, Civil War in Mexico and good guy Mercenaries!!!!!!
This is one of the best dino books I've ever read. Plenty of dinosaurs and a lot of military action. The storyline is enthralling and never lets you go! I literally could not put it down. It's a little slow in the beginning but thats goes away quickly and it's non-stop action from there on out. Don't miss this one guys. You'll be sorry if you do. Highly recommended.
This is one of the best dino books I've ever read. Plenty of dinosaurs and a lot of military action. The storyline is enthralling and never lets you go! I literally could not put it down. It's a little slow in the beginning but thats goes away quickly and it's non-stop action from there on out. Don't miss this one guys. You'll be sorry if you do. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2018
Terrific Read
This novel took me by surprise. And a pleasant surprise it was. How do you make a novel that has dinosaurs, enjoyable without said dinosaurs being the centerpiece? Easy...Seamus OMalley. Bestiarii will hopefully be followed up with a sequel. I'll definitely be interested.
This novel took me by surprise. And a pleasant surprise it was. How do you make a novel that has dinosaurs, enjoyable without said dinosaurs being the centerpiece? Easy...Seamus OMalley. Bestiarii will hopefully be followed up with a sequel. I'll definitely be interested.
August 28, 2018
Amazing read
Sometimes you pick a book up and expect it to be at least an ok read. Well this is not that! It is simply amazing! The story flowed smoothly, the details were sharp without bogging. The adventure was thrilling! I could
Not put it down! If you like adventure, action and Dino’s this is the top notch read for you!
Sometimes you pick a book up and expect it to be at least an ok read. Well this is not that! It is simply amazing! The story flowed smoothly, the details were sharp without bogging. The adventure was thrilling! I could
Not put it down! If you like adventure, action and Dino’s this is the top notch read for you!
July 5, 2019
Non stop action and surprises, you won't want to put it down. I hope that more about Seamus Mr Tarr ,writes some more Seamus novels.
Non stop action and surprises, you won't want to stop reading. I hope Mr Tarr writes more about Seamus. If you like dinosaurs and military action with a more knowledgeable twist, this is a great read.
Non stop action and surprises, you won't want to stop reading. I hope Mr Tarr writes more about Seamus. If you like dinosaurs and military action with a more knowledgeable twist, this is a great read.
February 24, 2021
Talented Author
A great plot, suspenseful and logical, with superb details of geography, weapons, and the biology of dinosaurs. The characters are well developed and believable, they don’t make phony errors and seem very true to life. It was hard to put the book down and easy to pick it back up.
A great plot, suspenseful and logical, with superb details of geography, weapons, and the biology of dinosaurs. The characters are well developed and believable, they don’t make phony errors and seem very true to life. It was hard to put the book down and easy to pick it back up.
February 21, 2018
Great romp
James Tarr is a brilliant story teller I am not a great fan of science fiction even though it's set in the future it reads as great action novel involving dinosaurs ,soldiers and huge amount s of action.
James Tarr is a brilliant story teller I am not a great fan of science fiction even though it's set in the future it reads as great action novel involving dinosaurs ,soldiers and huge amount s of action.
May 6, 2018
Exciting read.
I really liked this book. The author did a great job of bringing fiction to life in a completely believable way. I couldn’t wait to get back to ready each time I had to put it down.
I really liked this book. The author did a great job of bringing fiction to life in a completely believable way. I couldn’t wait to get back to ready each time I had to put it down.
May 11, 2018
Loved this book
The characters were fleshed out enough that I was slightly miffed that Hanson died. Kind of saw that one coming. The irishman was absolutely phenomenal. I'd love a series of books about Raven and dinosaur hunting gone wrong. Seamus rocks!
The characters were fleshed out enough that I was slightly miffed that Hanson died. Kind of saw that one coming. The irishman was absolutely phenomenal. I'd love a series of books about Raven and dinosaur hunting gone wrong. Seamus rocks!
June 3, 2018
Interesting premise and lots of action!
Truly enjoyed this read! The political side was fast moving and kept me entertained while waiting for the appearance of the dinosaurs. Like Benchly kept the suspense in Jaws, Tarr makes us turn the pages in suspense of the 'creatures.'
Truly enjoyed this read! The political side was fast moving and kept me entertained while waiting for the appearance of the dinosaurs. Like Benchly kept the suspense in Jaws, Tarr makes us turn the pages in suspense of the 'creatures.'
February 26, 2019
Great story
Wonderful story, a real can't out downer. Someone told me once that a sign of a good story or good writing was knowing and remembering the names of characters after you were through. I knew all of them in this one even the minor characters.
Wonderful story, a real can't out downer. Someone told me once that a sign of a good story or good writing was knowing and remembering the names of characters after you were through. I knew all of them in this one even the minor characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews