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Pub date June 18, 2024

ISBN 979-8990411920

Price $30.95 (USD) Hardcover, $15.95 Paperback, $0.99 Kindle edition

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Set during the cutthroat ‘Bone Wars,’ Wright’s debut in her Bone Wars Trilogy unearths a tense, fast-paced tale that examines the moral complexities of ambition and discovery. In the era of western expansion and the rise of paleontology, Edward Cope, a self-taught genius, and O.C. Marsh, backed by his wealthy uncle, engage in a heated, publicized battle for dominance. Their rivalry is marked by clever but questionable tactics that extend beyond science. 

Wright portrays Cope as a scientist driven by genuine curiosity, grappling with the shadow of ambition that threatens to consume him. His moral and ethical struggles make him a relatable and compelling protagonist, even as his determination teeters on the edge of obsession. In contrast, Marsh is depicted as ruthless and calculating, willing to sacrifice anyone for his gain. The friction between these two characters creates electric tension, with their rivalry intensifying with each new discovery and maneuver. The novel maintains a brisk pace, balancing high-stakes drama—such as fossil discoveries and public confrontations—with quieter, introspective moments that explore the characters’ psychological depths. Wright’s meticulous research into the ‘Bone Wars’ grounds the novel in a vivid, authentic portrayal of the scientific landscape. 

Readers familiar with works like ‘The Devil in the White City’ by Erik Larson or ‘The Invention of Nature’ by Andrea Wulf will appreciate Wright’s ability to blend history with character-driven storytelling. A perfect read for anyone who relishes character-driven conflict set against the backdrop of real-world drama. 

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