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After a life-changing discovery, Buck Reilly embarks on his greatest adventure, which threatens to be his last. The identity of the woman who gave him life is a closely guarded secret for reasons that go far beyond her own short existence. As Buck pursues information that has been fiercely hidden in Scotland for generations, it puts him and his friends in the crosshairs of a secret society whose sole purpose is to eliminate any threat of exposing the truth. Their lives depend on Buck finding missing ancient documents and treasure, impossibly fast, or they will all be killed.
The breathless pace will carry you deep into the night as Buck races against the clock to overcome double-cross that will cut him to the core as he faces-off against the coldest, most brutal circumstances one could endure. The journey leads to the ends of the earth, where no amount of treasure can overcome the deep treachery Under the Charcoal Sky.
Testimonials
Kirkus Reviews
Cunninghams 12th adventure-series installment delves into the complexities of Buck Reillys life, from his treasure-hunting exploits to personal upheavals that redefine his identity.
The story opens with a startling revelation: Bucks biological connection to billionaire Sir Harry Greenbaum, which, in turn, unexpectedly ties Buck to an aristocratic Scottish clan. Soon after this revelation, an assassin tries to kill Buck; hes unsuccessful, but Buck learns that a shadowy group wants revenge for the death of his biological mother, Catherine, who died giving birth to Buck. They’re also targeting Harry, and are on the hunt for a missing item that they believe he stole. It turns out to be a canister containing some important papers, which becomes a new treasure for Buck and his team to hunt down and a new mystery to solve. The narrative unfurls through a journey across Scotland, where ancient secrets, modern dangers, and personal reckonings collide. The novels pacing is dynamic, transitioning seamlessly from reflective moments to heart-pounding excitement, as during pivotal scenes such as Bucks discovery at Dunfermline Abbey, the burial place of Robert the Bruce. Although the dialogue occasionally leans on exposition, the chemistry among characters particularly between Buck and his ex-wife, Heather provides humor and emotional depth. Heather emerges as a standout, with her strength and intellect offering a compelling foil to Bucks more impulsive nature. Secondary characters, such as Bucks pal Lenny Jackson, an irreverent pastor, add a layer of levity that contrasts effectively with the story’s darker aspects. Cunninghams exploration of such themes as heritage, loyalty, and the burden of the past resonates, although the narrative occasionally risks becoming overly intricate at times. Still, the propulsive nature of Bucks quest and the palpable tension of his interactions with figures from his personal and professional lives propel the story along.
Fans of fast-paced adventure novels with a touch of mystery will find plenty to enjoy in this richly textured series entry.
