Review: The Scorpion's Tail by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

Authors: Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Publication Date: January 2021

Following OLD BONES, the second "happily anticipated" new thriller in Preston & Child's new series will once again feature Nora Kelly, archaeologist at the Santa Fe Archeological Institute, and FBI Agent Corrie Swanson investigating a new case that requires both their skills (Booklist).

After a shoot-out Swanson is involved in leaves a senior FBI agent gravely wounded, Corrie finds herself under investigation. Her supervisor assures her she's not to blame and the black mark on her record will be cleared in short order. But Corrie finds herself shake her overwhelming guilt.

As a distraction, she takes on a new case involving a fifty-year-old, mummified corpse discovered in a hidden enclave at High Lonesome, a long-abandoned New Mexico ghost town. Quickly out of her depth, she quickly realizes she needs the help of her foe-turned-ally, archaeologist Nora Kelly, who soon uncovers a startling truth: the deceased had been poisoned, and died clutching a priceless artifact from outside High Lonesome. 

The Scorpion's Tail is the second book featuring archaeologist Nora Kelly and FBI rookie Corrie Swanson.  This time around, they work together to solve the death of a prospector whose body was uncovered in a ghost town.    This was on my list of book that I was looking forward to this year.  I really enjoyed the first book, Old Bones.  This can definitely be read as a stand alone book.

I really enjoyed this second book.  It didn't disappoint.   Both women are really great characters.  There was a lot more growth in both of them, especially Corrie.  I like the fact that Corrie is a rookie and is still learning how to be an agent.  All too often we see FBI agents that are seasoned and experienced, so it's a nice change to have someone who is still learning the ropes.  Nora also learns some things about herself and her career path.  I look forward to seeing them both continue to grow as characters.  

The mystery was interesting and kept me engaged. There were some tense scenes that had me on the edge of my seat, especially the opening scene.  I think this one would make a great movie.  I hope that this series will continue in the future.  I highly recommend this one.