Rock Bottom

by Sarah Andrews
Reviewed by Andy Hanson

This book has my strong recommendation. The description of the Grand Canyon’s geological formations is fascinating and extremely helpful in understanding the way geologists use science to determine the age of the rock layers exposed to current wind and weather. In addition, Andrews uses the story to discuss conflicting creation stories: young earth vs. ancient earth, through the lives and experiences of two young adventurers.

Em Hanson, the intrepid forensic geologist and protagonist of nine previous novels, has lost nothing of her ability to make geologic information fascinating as she solves mysteries. Along the way, she interacts with characters faced with important moral issues as they deal with scientific realities and physical and emotional challenges.

As one who has taught adolescent literature, I would recommend this book to young Christian readers who won’t be put off by occasional adult language. I’m going to make a present of this book to my grandchildren.

In Cold Pursuit

In this book, Andrews does what she does best--make the reader "see" the locals she describes. I want to go to Antarctica! I was fascinated by the scientific research that is ongoing and the detailed look at what life is like for both scientists and support staff in this huge, magnificent, deadly "last continent".

I too was unhappy with the editing, although not really put off by it. I was a bit disappointed that Valena didn't have to survive by her wits alone in some remote, dangerous region, and/or kick the villain in the balls and drag his ass behind one of the snowmobiles. She is certainly tough and strong enough to do it. But, and this is a big BUT, she is not Em Hansen

However, the book is a great read; the solution to the mystery satisfying and scientific; Valena is a real character faced with very difficult personal, physical, and academic dilemmas; and I believe that she "falls" for a very cool guy.

Sarah has lived there! She shared the unbelievable beauty and danger of Antarctica, tossed in just enough philosophy to make her quotable, added enough humor and grit to make her fellow adventurers come alive, and best of all, reminded me what it means to be a scientific researcher doing work that really means something!

I have read all of Sarah Andrews’s fiction, and this book is one of her best.