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Recommend this book:
Shadow of the Automaton
I Am Automaton Book 3
Edward P. Cardillo
2014 Honorable Mention
292 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Ray Simmons for Readers' Favorite
Shadow of the Automaton by Edward P. Cardillo is a complex novel that manages to satisfy on every level. It is the story of two brothers who love each other but are on opposite sides in a battle for the future of humanity. Actually, to say they are the key players in a battle for the very soul of humanity would not be an understatement. The protagonist, Peter, is a well developed character with all the traits a good hero should have. He is smart, likable, and willing to make the sacrifices a hero often must in order to secure a safer world for all. His younger brother Kafka is the other side of that coin, diabolical and relentless in his quest to change humanity into something at once more and less than human. He has unimaginable power and knowledge and his only apparent weakness is his desire to recruit his big brother to his cause, thus securing the only approval that is really important to him.
Edward P. Cardillo is a name to watch out for. In Shadow of the Automaton he deftly handles complicated themes while moving the plot to a satisfying conclusion. While the book is a thriller complete with a healthy dose of sibling rivalry on one level, on another it is a sharp, and at times humorous look at modern American society. The satire is pointed and stinging and the emotions this book evoke run from hilarious to horrifying. It is a well written roller coaster ride.
Shadow of the Automaton by Edward P. Cardillo is a complex novel that manages to satisfy on every level. It is the story of two brothers who love each other but are on opposite sides in a battle for the future of humanity. Actually, to say they are the key players in a battle for the very soul of humanity would not be an understatement. The protagonist, Peter, is a well developed character with all the traits a good hero should have. He is smart, likable, and willing to make the sacrifices a hero often must in order to secure a safer world for all. His younger brother Kafka is the other side of that coin, diabolical and relentless in his quest to change humanity into something at once more and less than human. He has unimaginable power and knowledge and his only apparent weakness is his desire to recruit his big brother to his cause, thus securing the only approval that is really important to him.
Edward P. Cardillo is a name to watch out for. In Shadow of the Automaton he deftly handles complicated themes while moving the plot to a satisfying conclusion. While the book is a thriller complete with a healthy dose of sibling rivalry on one level, on another it is a sharp, and at times humorous look at modern American society. The satire is pointed and stinging and the emotions this book evoke run from hilarious to horrifying. It is a well written roller coaster ride.
Recommend this book:
The Grid
An International Thriller
Carlton Winnfield
2014 Bronze Medal
190 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Barbara Garcia for Readers' Favorite
The Grid by Carlton Winnfield is an extraordinary tale of international intrigue and subversion, narrated by an unnamed agent of The Grid. With highly advanced nanotechnology, a super computer to guide him, and a multitude of satellites to be his eye in the sky at all times, we follow him on a mission to uncover and then stop the plans of Khan, a radical Jihadist leader from Pakistan. As he uncovers the plans, piece by piece, a horrific picture unfolds of an alliance with Gomez Soares, a Mexican drug cartel leader, and the smuggling of an atomic bomb to Mexico City. Soares and Khan are both certain that detonating this bomb will effectively upset the balance of power in the countries they both wish to take over. But The Grid has other plans.
The Grid by Carlton Winnfield is exciting and riveting. The narrator is never named so I felt as if I were following a shadowy figure through the whole story. Rather appropriate considering that's exactly how he was supposed to be. He leads you on an international romp through three continents to complete his mission, and author Carlton Winnfield did a superb job bringing every location to life in vivid detail. His character building is equally impressive. From the beautiful Controller of The Grid to the other exotic beauties and evil men we encounter, they are perfectly visualized through his writing. I highly recommend this book for better-than-Bond thrills and intrigue.
The Grid by Carlton Winnfield is an extraordinary tale of international intrigue and subversion, narrated by an unnamed agent of The Grid. With highly advanced nanotechnology, a super computer to guide him, and a multitude of satellites to be his eye in the sky at all times, we follow him on a mission to uncover and then stop the plans of Khan, a radical Jihadist leader from Pakistan. As he uncovers the plans, piece by piece, a horrific picture unfolds of an alliance with Gomez Soares, a Mexican drug cartel leader, and the smuggling of an atomic bomb to Mexico City. Soares and Khan are both certain that detonating this bomb will effectively upset the balance of power in the countries they both wish to take over. But The Grid has other plans.
The Grid by Carlton Winnfield is exciting and riveting. The narrator is never named so I felt as if I were following a shadowy figure through the whole story. Rather appropriate considering that's exactly how he was supposed to be. He leads you on an international romp through three continents to complete his mission, and author Carlton Winnfield did a superb job bringing every location to life in vivid detail. His character building is equally impressive. From the beautiful Controller of The Grid to the other exotic beauties and evil men we encounter, they are perfectly visualized through his writing. I highly recommend this book for better-than-Bond thrills and intrigue.
Recommend this book:
Measure of Danger
A Kade Sims Thriller
Jay Klages
2014 Silver Medal
379 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
Measure of Danger: A Kade Sims Novel by Jay Klages is a thriller revolving around a young former intelligence officer, Kade Sims. Kade Sims finds himself removed from his job because of a behavior termed hypomania. Sitting at home he is bored, but at that time the FBI approaches him and asks him to go as an undercover agent to find out about The Chapter, a mysterious quasi-militia group. Kade finds himself on a different road altogether. What looked like an easy task is not as easy as he thought it would be. When his Jeep meets with an accident, he finds himself waking up in The Chapter's compound, strapped to a bed. His hypomania works to his advantage here because it helps him to resist the mind control methods of the brutal soldiers of The Chapter. He finds a way to connect with the FBI, his family and roommate. Will Kade be able to survive this assignment with mind and body intact or will there be no escaping from this network of The Chapter?
The plot will keep readers riveted with lots of twists, turns, action and thrills. The portrayal of Kade Sims is done well; he is just like any other guy and not the typical slick super hero. The sub plots have been woven into the main plot fluidly. It is a great book for those who are interested in reading action based stories. The plot comes up with a lot of surprises and spins that will enthrall readers.
Measure of Danger: A Kade Sims Novel by Jay Klages is a thriller revolving around a young former intelligence officer, Kade Sims. Kade Sims finds himself removed from his job because of a behavior termed hypomania. Sitting at home he is bored, but at that time the FBI approaches him and asks him to go as an undercover agent to find out about The Chapter, a mysterious quasi-militia group. Kade finds himself on a different road altogether. What looked like an easy task is not as easy as he thought it would be. When his Jeep meets with an accident, he finds himself waking up in The Chapter's compound, strapped to a bed. His hypomania works to his advantage here because it helps him to resist the mind control methods of the brutal soldiers of The Chapter. He finds a way to connect with the FBI, his family and roommate. Will Kade be able to survive this assignment with mind and body intact or will there be no escaping from this network of The Chapter?
The plot will keep readers riveted with lots of twists, turns, action and thrills. The portrayal of Kade Sims is done well; he is just like any other guy and not the typical slick super hero. The sub plots have been woven into the main plot fluidly. It is a great book for those who are interested in reading action based stories. The plot comes up with a lot of surprises and spins that will enthrall readers.
Recommend this book:
Love Thy Neighbor
Mark Gilleo
2014 Gold Medal
438 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Michael Alexander Beas for Readers' Favorite
Love Thy Neighbor by author Mark Gilleo is truly a remarkable book that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Suspense, mystery and intrigue form the backbone of this book that enthralled my senses and imagination for four nights on end. The main character, Clark Hayden, is a student desperately trying to cope with the loss of his father. He goes home to Washington DC to help his mother, who in many ways is delusional and suffering with a mental condition. As the saying goes ‘when it rains it pours,’ and it certainly has begun to rain hard in Clark's life. In short, he is thrust deep into the world of terrorism where the end of his life and thousands of others is just a moment in time away.
If I have to pick words that best describe author Mark Gilleo’s writing style it would have to be gripping and captivating. Gilleo’s plot development is perfectly described with the right mix of tension and suspense that makes the pages turn effortlessly on your reading device. I personally enjoyed all of the correlations as they pertain to the different government agencies in the USA. This is definitely an end of days scenario that opens questions as to what if something like this would happen in a big city like Washington DC, or for that matter Miami, FL or NYC? Would we be ready? Would we have a solution? Or would we rely on people like Clark Hayden to come to our aid. This is certainly a thought- provoking read that is not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for a thriller to sink your teeth into, then look no further. Love Thy Neighbor is the book for you.
Love Thy Neighbor by author Mark Gilleo is truly a remarkable book that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Suspense, mystery and intrigue form the backbone of this book that enthralled my senses and imagination for four nights on end. The main character, Clark Hayden, is a student desperately trying to cope with the loss of his father. He goes home to Washington DC to help his mother, who in many ways is delusional and suffering with a mental condition. As the saying goes ‘when it rains it pours,’ and it certainly has begun to rain hard in Clark's life. In short, he is thrust deep into the world of terrorism where the end of his life and thousands of others is just a moment in time away.
If I have to pick words that best describe author Mark Gilleo’s writing style it would have to be gripping and captivating. Gilleo’s plot development is perfectly described with the right mix of tension and suspense that makes the pages turn effortlessly on your reading device. I personally enjoyed all of the correlations as they pertain to the different government agencies in the USA. This is definitely an end of days scenario that opens questions as to what if something like this would happen in a big city like Washington DC, or for that matter Miami, FL or NYC? Would we be ready? Would we have a solution? Or would we rely on people like Clark Hayden to come to our aid. This is certainly a thought- provoking read that is not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for a thriller to sink your teeth into, then look no further. Love Thy Neighbor is the book for you.
Recommend this book:
Ironsides' Peril
A Zach Colt Adventure
Michael D. Urban
2013 Honorable Mention
393 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Samantha Rivera for Readers' Favorite
When old Ironsides turns 215, the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Fourth of July all happen to fall within the same time frame; it is obvious that the country will celebrate. After all, how often do such amazing things happen all at once? The city of Boston is poised to celebrate and they are determined that the celebration will be great. That is until a series of terrorist attacks strike the day of the big event. The bombings and the firefight are only the beginning of what will turn out to be one of the most terrifying and harrowing days in American history even counting the wars of our past.
There are not many authors who will take you inside the mind of a terrorist, but Urban takes us into the minds of three. Not only that, he provides captivating details about the history of Old Ironsides, the military and his main characters. Zach Colt, his girlfriend Eleni, the police, Coast Guard and several others are all the heroes of this story. And Urban was able to provide great details that made every single one of them come alive and seem extremely real. It was easy to relate to each character and easy to understand their motivation (even of the terrorists) because of the way they were described. I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be interested in finding any more by this author. I'm also happy that I found out there were more books about these same characters. I’ll definitely be looking into those as well.
When old Ironsides turns 215, the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Fourth of July all happen to fall within the same time frame; it is obvious that the country will celebrate. After all, how often do such amazing things happen all at once? The city of Boston is poised to celebrate and they are determined that the celebration will be great. That is until a series of terrorist attacks strike the day of the big event. The bombings and the firefight are only the beginning of what will turn out to be one of the most terrifying and harrowing days in American history even counting the wars of our past.
There are not many authors who will take you inside the mind of a terrorist, but Urban takes us into the minds of three. Not only that, he provides captivating details about the history of Old Ironsides, the military and his main characters. Zach Colt, his girlfriend Eleni, the police, Coast Guard and several others are all the heroes of this story. And Urban was able to provide great details that made every single one of them come alive and seem extremely real. It was easy to relate to each character and easy to understand their motivation (even of the terrorists) because of the way they were described. I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be interested in finding any more by this author. I'm also happy that I found out there were more books about these same characters. I’ll definitely be looking into those as well.
Recommend this book:
Unleashing Colter's Hell
A National Park Thriller
Sean Smith
2013 Gold Medal
324 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite
“Unleashing Colter’s Hell” by Sean Smith is a top notch, suspenseful thriller of the highest quality. The author’s authoritative life experience and thorough research have enabled him to fashion a story so realistic that you will be waiting for the sound of the explosion to reach your ears. This story consists of at least four distinct sub-plots, interwoven into one remarkably believable tale of extreme religious fervor at opposing ends of the spectrum, and a very real ticking time bomb setting right below our feet in America. The entire scenario is so feasible that I have to wonder if such a thing hasn’t already been tried, fortunately without success. Sean Smith has masterfully cast his characters to make them as sincere and legitimate as any living human being.
The title, “Unleashing Colter’s Hell”, is a reference to the original name applied to what is now called Yellowstone National Park. Numerous authentic details about the enormous Yellowstone caldera and its devastating potential for destroying life on Earth make this superb novel a rather respectable geology lesson as well. Though specific events in the story are fictional, they are absolutely legitimate, genuine concerns. The natural continuance of the caldera’s eruptive cycle is perhaps the single event most likely to end life as we know it today, ushering in an extensive era of apocalyptic conditions on Earth. Far more likely than a meteor crashing into the planet, or a new virus decimating the global population, a Yellowstone eruption is more a matter of “when”, than “if”. Given the ebb and flow of nature’s many cycles, the periodic escalation of seismic volcanic activity, followed by a period of de-escalation, seems more likely than not. This thriller is not only a superb novel of suspense, but it will remain with you as one of the scariest books you will ever read. Don’t be surprised to see “Unleashing Colter’s Hell” making it to the Top Ten Bestseller’s list.
“Unleashing Colter’s Hell” by Sean Smith is a top notch, suspenseful thriller of the highest quality. The author’s authoritative life experience and thorough research have enabled him to fashion a story so realistic that you will be waiting for the sound of the explosion to reach your ears. This story consists of at least four distinct sub-plots, interwoven into one remarkably believable tale of extreme religious fervor at opposing ends of the spectrum, and a very real ticking time bomb setting right below our feet in America. The entire scenario is so feasible that I have to wonder if such a thing hasn’t already been tried, fortunately without success. Sean Smith has masterfully cast his characters to make them as sincere and legitimate as any living human being.
The title, “Unleashing Colter’s Hell”, is a reference to the original name applied to what is now called Yellowstone National Park. Numerous authentic details about the enormous Yellowstone caldera and its devastating potential for destroying life on Earth make this superb novel a rather respectable geology lesson as well. Though specific events in the story are fictional, they are absolutely legitimate, genuine concerns. The natural continuance of the caldera’s eruptive cycle is perhaps the single event most likely to end life as we know it today, ushering in an extensive era of apocalyptic conditions on Earth. Far more likely than a meteor crashing into the planet, or a new virus decimating the global population, a Yellowstone eruption is more a matter of “when”, than “if”. Given the ebb and flow of nature’s many cycles, the periodic escalation of seismic volcanic activity, followed by a period of de-escalation, seems more likely than not. This thriller is not only a superb novel of suspense, but it will remain with you as one of the scariest books you will ever read. Don’t be surprised to see “Unleashing Colter’s Hell” making it to the Top Ten Bestseller’s list.
Recommend this book:
Terrorists and the Terchova Treasure
In My Brother's Place
George Banas
2013 Finalist
706 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
The September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States fortified Joe Legion's determination to fight in order to protect his family from a yet unknown enemy. Illegal trafficking of drugs, weapons, and nuclear materials seem to have a strong link to the 9/11 attacks. Joe Legion aims to destroy these illegal operations. He enlists the aid of friends and family members to seek the legendary treasure of Juraj Janosik, the early 18th century bandit and national hero of Slovakia. The treasure, or related gossip will be used to lure the terrorists out of hiding. Joe and his companions face deadly enemies as they make their way through Russia, India, Europe, North Africa, and Latin America.
"Terrorists and the Terchova Treasure - In My Brother's Place" is written by George Banas, an early Vietnam veteran. He was traveling with his wife between Tangier, Morocco and Madrid, Spain when the attacks occurred. This book bravely brings back the rude shock and painful experience that the United States suffered on that fateful day. The attacks provoked the strongest anti-terrorism sentiments, not just from Americans, but from people around the world. The book is intended to be a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives on that fateful day. The author skillfully entwines his personal experiences with actual historical events from President Carter's administration through President George W. Bush's term. Banas dedicates this book to the military and civilian defenders of this country for their sacrifices that will never be forgotten if he has anything to say about it. I highly recommend this multi-genre book to readers of all types.
The September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States fortified Joe Legion's determination to fight in order to protect his family from a yet unknown enemy. Illegal trafficking of drugs, weapons, and nuclear materials seem to have a strong link to the 9/11 attacks. Joe Legion aims to destroy these illegal operations. He enlists the aid of friends and family members to seek the legendary treasure of Juraj Janosik, the early 18th century bandit and national hero of Slovakia. The treasure, or related gossip will be used to lure the terrorists out of hiding. Joe and his companions face deadly enemies as they make their way through Russia, India, Europe, North Africa, and Latin America.
"Terrorists and the Terchova Treasure - In My Brother's Place" is written by George Banas, an early Vietnam veteran. He was traveling with his wife between Tangier, Morocco and Madrid, Spain when the attacks occurred. This book bravely brings back the rude shock and painful experience that the United States suffered on that fateful day. The attacks provoked the strongest anti-terrorism sentiments, not just from Americans, but from people around the world. The book is intended to be a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives on that fateful day. The author skillfully entwines his personal experiences with actual historical events from President Carter's administration through President George W. Bush's term. Banas dedicates this book to the military and civilian defenders of this country for their sacrifices that will never be forgotten if he has anything to say about it. I highly recommend this multi-genre book to readers of all types.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/emma&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Wcs6HbRHL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="EMMA: Emergent Movement of Militant Anarchists" by Michael Segedy is every bit as exciting as you’d expect a novel by this talented author to be. A group of political anarchists - in the true sense of the word as meaning a political philosophy that holds the state to be unnecessary at best and harmful at worst - use the Web as a tool to achieve ...){kind=link}
EMMA
Emergent Movement of Militant Anarchists
Michael Segedy
2013 Silver Medal
395 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Stephanie Dagg for Readers' Favorite
"EMMA: Emergent Movement of Militant Anarchists" by Michael Segedy is every bit as exciting as you’d expect a novel by this talented author to be. A group of political anarchists - in the true sense of the word as meaning a political philosophy that holds the state to be unnecessary at best and harmful at worst - use the Web as a tool to achieve what they see as improvements in society. However, within the ranks are some extremists who will only be happy if corporate figures they see as evil are removed permanently. The key figure in the action is Brent Cossack, a CIA operative who is forced to resign after becoming disillusioned at discovering some grim truths in his work. Events conspire to keep him on the edge. Another somewhat disillusioned man, FBI agent Rick Clark, is trying to forget tough personal circumstances and becomes involved in the action. He turns to his psychologist for support and help comes from another quarter too.
The book has everything a modern high-tech thriller needs: computers, terrorists groups, reference to recent actual figures and events, corporate baddies, fanatics driven too far and troubled but competent strong, moral investigators. There is breathless tension by the truckload and plenty of high emotion, but it also has pathos and genuinely moving moments. Segedy always creates complex, convincing characters with enough emotional baggage to make them interesting but not crippled. He plunges these rounded individuals into thoroughly researched and imaginative yet disturbingly realistic and plausible scenarios to keep his readers glued to the pages. Even the chapter headings show the thought that this author puts into his work and help keep every word he uses charged with energy and interest. If you haven’t already realized from this review, let me tell you that this book is frankly brilliant and you really should read it.
"EMMA: Emergent Movement of Militant Anarchists" by Michael Segedy is every bit as exciting as you’d expect a novel by this talented author to be. A group of political anarchists - in the true sense of the word as meaning a political philosophy that holds the state to be unnecessary at best and harmful at worst - use the Web as a tool to achieve what they see as improvements in society. However, within the ranks are some extremists who will only be happy if corporate figures they see as evil are removed permanently. The key figure in the action is Brent Cossack, a CIA operative who is forced to resign after becoming disillusioned at discovering some grim truths in his work. Events conspire to keep him on the edge. Another somewhat disillusioned man, FBI agent Rick Clark, is trying to forget tough personal circumstances and becomes involved in the action. He turns to his psychologist for support and help comes from another quarter too.
The book has everything a modern high-tech thriller needs: computers, terrorists groups, reference to recent actual figures and events, corporate baddies, fanatics driven too far and troubled but competent strong, moral investigators. There is breathless tension by the truckload and plenty of high emotion, but it also has pathos and genuinely moving moments. Segedy always creates complex, convincing characters with enough emotional baggage to make them interesting but not crippled. He plunges these rounded individuals into thoroughly researched and imaginative yet disturbingly realistic and plausible scenarios to keep his readers glued to the pages. Even the chapter headings show the thought that this author puts into his work and help keep every word he uses charged with energy and interest. If you haven’t already realized from this review, let me tell you that this book is frankly brilliant and you really should read it.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/killing-sharks&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51i4hJ6D%2BXL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="Killing Sharks: De Profundis" by Eric Wentz is in some ways a typical modern political thriller in that it has the elements we have come to associate with such literature – a strong military figure who is something of a maverick, fuzzy ineffectual politicians, a variety of settings in some of the world’s more tortured regions and acts of terro...){kind=link}
Killing Sharks
De Profundis
Eric Wentz
2013 Bronze Medal
374 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Stephanie Dagg for Readers' Favorite
"Killing Sharks: De Profundis" by Eric Wentz is in some ways a typical modern political thriller in that it has the elements we have come to associate with such literature – a strong military figure who is something of a maverick, fuzzy ineffectual politicians, a variety of settings in some of the world’s more tortured regions and acts of terror either realized or threatened. However, this novel takes it to a deeper level. The characters are rounded, actions are considered and explained, and there is substance to the emotions portrayed. Lieutenant Commander Grant Chisolm, who has already appeared in a previous novel by this author, is a powerful, resourceful and courageous protagonist, and provides a suitably strong heart for this gritty, pulsating novel. In his new role as liaison officer at Guantanamo he has to have very close dealings with the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. The threat of terror is constantly there. You will almost forget to breathe when you are reading this book.
The author clearly has a vast knowledge of military matters and history and he shares this with us in this novel. We can’t help but share his fascination as we are pulled into this tightly woven story. We meet a wide cast of characters, from likable and noble to downright evil, and encounter many different emotions. There are touches of humor to lighten the generally serious and suspenseful atmosphere. There is a very helpful glossary of terms which explains terms like jihad, CENTCOM, etc. It is a good thing as you don’t feel silly if these are terms you either haven’t come across before or have never fully understood. There are also notes and a map. I would have preferred not to have the reviews at the beginning of the book. They would be better on the book’s website or at the end. They also mean you have to wait longer to start reading this excellent book. And more is given away by the table of contents with chapters with such headings as ‘Caffeinated Diplomacy’ and ‘A Wary Interview’. Definitely a book to read.
"Killing Sharks: De Profundis" by Eric Wentz is in some ways a typical modern political thriller in that it has the elements we have come to associate with such literature – a strong military figure who is something of a maverick, fuzzy ineffectual politicians, a variety of settings in some of the world’s more tortured regions and acts of terror either realized or threatened. However, this novel takes it to a deeper level. The characters are rounded, actions are considered and explained, and there is substance to the emotions portrayed. Lieutenant Commander Grant Chisolm, who has already appeared in a previous novel by this author, is a powerful, resourceful and courageous protagonist, and provides a suitably strong heart for this gritty, pulsating novel. In his new role as liaison officer at Guantanamo he has to have very close dealings with the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. The threat of terror is constantly there. You will almost forget to breathe when you are reading this book.
The author clearly has a vast knowledge of military matters and history and he shares this with us in this novel. We can’t help but share his fascination as we are pulled into this tightly woven story. We meet a wide cast of characters, from likable and noble to downright evil, and encounter many different emotions. There are touches of humor to lighten the generally serious and suspenseful atmosphere. There is a very helpful glossary of terms which explains terms like jihad, CENTCOM, etc. It is a good thing as you don’t feel silly if these are terms you either haven’t come across before or have never fully understood. There are also notes and a map. I would have preferred not to have the reviews at the beginning of the book. They would be better on the book’s website or at the end. They also mean you have to wait longer to start reading this excellent book. And more is given away by the table of contents with chapters with such headings as ‘Caffeinated Diplomacy’ and ‘A Wary Interview’. Definitely a book to read.
Recommend this book:
CAPTIVE
Timothy Allen Smith
2013 Honorable Mention
270 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist
Reviewed by Brenda Casto for Readers' Favorite
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be captivating! Once I started reading I couldn't put it down!
On 9-11-2013, a brazen terrorist attack took place at the Annenberg theater in Center City, PA. Though 290 people were taken hostage this story focuses on nine of the hostages who were separated from the other hostages and locked into a basement room where they were held for over eighteen hours until they were rescued by police. As we get to know each of the nine hostages, we feel their fear and frustration, but we also see faith and sacrifice. We learn each character's story, and ultimately see most of them grow and change as the story progresses. Some of the hostages survive but some don't, but one thing is for sure: each person who was held in that room will changed forever!
What a gripping read! "Captive" is such a realistically written story. From the voices of the hostages to the situation that they found themselves in, I couldn't help but think that this could actually happen! This fact alone kept me on the edge of my seat to see what would ultimately happen! Mr. Smith created characters that literally jump off the pages. It was easy to feel not only their fear, but the tension in the room was palpable at times, but the hope that flowed from several of the characters was just as strong! It takes a true wordsmith to create a story where you feel as if you are part of the story, but also outside of it as well. The character of Marla Cruz added another layer to the story, and gave it even more authenticity. The author begins his wrap up in a way that totally floored me and then provided a cliff hanger ending that left this reader hoping that there might be a sequel! Anyone who enjoys a well-written story, that touches on some tough subject such as religion, racism, sexual bias, terrorism, and relationship issues just to name a few, will certainly enjoy this story. Perhaps though you are just looking for an edge of your seat read with memorable characters, "Captive" certainly fits the bill. On a scale of one to five I would easily give "Captive" a six because it is a mind-grabbing, attention-holding read from beginning to end!
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be captivating! Once I started reading I couldn't put it down!
On 9-11-2013, a brazen terrorist attack took place at the Annenberg theater in Center City, PA. Though 290 people were taken hostage this story focuses on nine of the hostages who were separated from the other hostages and locked into a basement room where they were held for over eighteen hours until they were rescued by police. As we get to know each of the nine hostages, we feel their fear and frustration, but we also see faith and sacrifice. We learn each character's story, and ultimately see most of them grow and change as the story progresses. Some of the hostages survive but some don't, but one thing is for sure: each person who was held in that room will changed forever!
What a gripping read! "Captive" is such a realistically written story. From the voices of the hostages to the situation that they found themselves in, I couldn't help but think that this could actually happen! This fact alone kept me on the edge of my seat to see what would ultimately happen! Mr. Smith created characters that literally jump off the pages. It was easy to feel not only their fear, but the tension in the room was palpable at times, but the hope that flowed from several of the characters was just as strong! It takes a true wordsmith to create a story where you feel as if you are part of the story, but also outside of it as well. The character of Marla Cruz added another layer to the story, and gave it even more authenticity. The author begins his wrap up in a way that totally floored me and then provided a cliff hanger ending that left this reader hoping that there might be a sequel! Anyone who enjoys a well-written story, that touches on some tough subject such as religion, racism, sexual bias, terrorism, and relationship issues just to name a few, will certainly enjoy this story. Perhaps though you are just looking for an edge of your seat read with memorable characters, "Captive" certainly fits the bill. On a scale of one to five I would easily give "Captive" a six because it is a mind-grabbing, attention-holding read from beginning to end!
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