UNDER THE CHARCOAL SKY

Cunningham’s 12th adventure-series installment delves into the complexities of Buck Reilly’s life, from his treasure-hunting exploits to personal upheavals that redefine his identity.

The story opens with a startling revelation: Buck’s 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; he’s 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 novel’s pacing is dynamic, transitioning seamlessly from reflective moments to heart-pounding excitement, as during pivotal scenes such as Buck’s 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 Buck’s more impulsive nature. Secondary characters, such as Buck’s pal Lenny Jackson, an irreverent pastor, add a layer of levity that contrasts effectively with the story’s darker aspects. Cunningham’s 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 Buck’s 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.