MEG: Hell's Aquarium - Book Review

"MEG: Hell's Aquarium" [Steve Alten/Variance/342 pgs] is the Fourth Chapter in the continuing series of books. The original MEG had been the target for many starts on a Hollywood movie, the most specific being with Renny Harlin who eventually made "Deep Blue Sea" The story here uses more character conception along the lines of "Jaws" but with an added family component both in the guise of sharks and the humans itself. The aspect of bringing bigger predators into the mix definitely gives it a tinge of exciotement and the inclusion of the next generation by a bad-ass young 20-year-old playing possum with some military types funded by Dubai business backed by thoughts of success. The definite propensity author Steve Alten brings is a distinction of imagery despite, at times, a repetitive dialogue progression (specifically in tune to the romantic sitiuation between young David and his co-pilot/lover Kaylie). Granted the formulaic romance is simply meant as a story ploy but, in all actuality, it seems to work very well. The descent into the ancient sea 31,000 feet below the surface near the Phillipine Sea shows a pacing that seamlessly blends with the politics back on the mainland involving two juvenille MEGS held at an aquarium. Granted the great aspect about a book like this is that the special effects are created in your head especially with the later fight between the vicious mother MEG: Angel and a crocodilian monster from the deep. The angle that Alten uses at the very end as a dramatic choice is very mythic and sells the book in essence especially in terms of tragedy and family. Having not read any of the previous books, this story brings you into the world and, while referencing past material, doesn't overwhelm it. A basis of the previous knolwedge probably would be preferable but it is not essential to the story though it does pervade in the characters a sense of caution. All said, "MEG: Hell's Aquarium" is a swift read with a sense of character and drama while purveying the best special effect of all: your mind.