State Of Fear by Michael Crichton (2004, Hardcover)

I really enjoyed this book, so it surprised me to see two less than glowing reviews. My background: I am an independently-minded person with no political affiliation (but conservative leanings) and am always on the lookout for good escapist books that are not brainless. This is the perfect blend of both. The following is a DETAILED review. Don't read it if you want to be surprised!

After a quick start of sex and murder, the pace of the book suddenly jerks to a crawl as the main characters and topics are introduced. If you can endure this part you're in for a fast and intriguing ride as the pace picks up to follow a dangerous and facinating trail to save the world (or at least California) from eco-terrorists. The main character (if there is one) is basically a well-informed lawyer who believes in global warming (the main topic) and is introduced to people who have opposing views. The controversy over global warming with the arguments are laid out to this character. I didn't think these moments got in the way of the story since they usually happen during travel to distant locations and are interspersed with light romance to spice it up a bit. There are plenty of plot twists and turns that will leave you guessing and there was a moment at the end that I thought was very reminicent of classic Crichton (Jurassic Park) since the group ends up on an island populated by cannibals. There are several token people - basically people who are bodies waiting to be killed, maimed, injured and left behind - and Crichton doesn't delve deep into anyone's psyche. The good-guys win and the eco-terrorists all...well, you'll just have to read the book to find out. A long list of references (with some funny asides by Crichton) would make interesting reading for someone VERY facinated in the topic of global warming and the scientific evidences for and against. Overall, this book makes for an enjoyable, fast-paced read that won't leave you brainless.