I grew up reading the Dirk Pitt adventures. At the time, they were a great romp and I loved them. As I kept reading these summer books, I got a bit tired of how Cussler would wrap Dirk Pitt in the American flag and just how invincible he was.
But I had missed the point; the author was writing camp, fun, over-the-top adventures in the style of the pulps. I didn't find them believable.
I wasn't supposed to.
Now I'm in my mid-50's and trying to read them again. Perspective helps and I can certainly turn the pages for the sheer fun of a story well told.
Iceberg was first published in 1975 and it certainly feels a bit dated, but not by much. There is some light misogyny and heavy smoking which was typical of the time.
I remember how I always liked the first two thirds of his books. Iceberg was before his formula was set (much like a James Bond movie) so it lacked the historical reference and his good old buddy, Al Giordino. Which I missed. Yes, the last third was over-the-top to the point of eye-rolling.
It was a fun read - but it was fluff. It may be awhile before I read Raise the Titanic!
Still, if you're missing James Bond, you might enjoy one of these classics.
Recommended, but don't expect much.
Below is the cover of the novel as I read it in the late 70's.
