Koncocoo

Best Crime Thrillers

Blood on the Tracks (Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 1)
A young woman is found brutally murdered, and the main suspect is the victim’s fiancé, a hideously scarred Iraq War vet known as the Burned Man. Do yourself a favor and give this bright talent a read.” —John Hart, multiple Edgar Award winner and New York Times bestselling author of Redemption Road. Barbara Nickless has written a twisting, tortured novel that speaks with brutal honesty of the lingering traumas of war, including and especially those wounds we cannot see. I fell hard for Parnell and her four-legged partner and can't wait to read more.” —Vicki Pettersson, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Swerve. Barbara Nickless has fashioned a beautifully drawn hero in take-charge, take-no-prisoners Sydney Parnell, former Marine and now a railway cop battling a deadly gang as she investigates their purported connection to a recent murder. Skilled in evoking emotion from the reader, Nickless is a master of the craft, a writer to keep your eyes on.” —Chris Goff, author of Dark Waters. “Barbara Nickless’s Blood on the Tracks is raw and authentic, plunging readers into the fascinating world of tough railroad cop Special Agent Sydney Rose Parnell and her Malinois sidekick, Clyde. Haunted by her military service in Iraq, Sydney Rose is brought in by the Denver Major Crimes unit to help solve a particularly brutal murder, leading her into a snake pit of hate and betrayal. Full of the suspense that holds you on the edge of your seat, it’s also replete with acts of bravery, moments of hope, and a host of feelings that keep the story’s intensity level high. An active member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, she has given workshops and speeches at numerous writing conferences and book events.
Reviews
"Here's a quick rundown, without spoilers: THE HEROINE -- At first, it appeared this was going to be another female character who somehow seems to do everything right despite all the angst she has to lug around. Her scene descriptions are vivid, and the attention to the thoughts of her main character Sydney is wonderful. ADDITIONAL WRITING THOUGHT -- The author uses transcripts of the main character's notes, interviews, journals, etc. I don't subtract stars if an author chooses to include language or sex, just letting potential readers know both exist in this book. For me, I enjoy when an author drops clues throughout the book that add up to a strong justification when the murderer is finally revealed, and I personally thought this could have been handled a little better. HOWEVER...even with the "twists" issue, the story is excellent and I found myself really liking the character of Sydney Parnell."
"Since I enjoy reading police procedural novels, I didn’t need to go past the summary description that this one included a K-9 partner to immediately select it as my Kindle First choice. While this is an especially interesting police procedural story since Sydney Rose Parnell and Clyde are part of a railroad police force, it goes much deeper."
"I was hooked from the first chapter - drawn in by the main character, Sydney, who hides her complex and compassionate nature beneath a stoic exterior."
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Two Kinds of Truth (A Harry Bosch Novel)
A South Florida Sun-Sentinel Best Mystery of 2017. An Amazon Book of the Month Harry Bosch is back as a volunteer working cold cases for the San Fernando Police Department and is called out to a local drug store where a young pharmacist has been murdered. Meanwhile, an old case from Bosch's LAPD days comes back to haunt him when a long-imprisoned killer claims Harry framed him, and seems to have new evidence to prove it. "[Connelly's] immaculate plotting and gift for bringing procedural intricacies to life now seem as strong as ever...he writes the best detective novels around. "Harry Bosch is a one-of-a-kind hero who started out pretty wild when he returned from Vietnam to become a cop, but over the years he's developed into someone you want to ride with. "Connelly's immaculate plotting and gift for bringing procedural intricacies to life now seem as strong as ever...he writes the best detective novels around. "[Two Kinds of Truth] is a reflection of Connelly's talent that after 19 books chronicling Bosch's career, this iteration feels fresh and authentic. "Expertly juggling both plots, Connelly mines the double murder for fascinating and frightening details...Connelly remains atop a heap of contemporary crime writers thanks to his rare ability to combine master plotting and procedural detail with a literary novelist's feel for the inner lives of his or her characters.
Reviews
"Two Kinds of Truth is an outstanding addition to the fabulous Harry Bosch series. This mystery series is one of my very favorites; Connelly has managed to create an authentic, likeable main character in Harry Bosch and has successfully provided him with a career path that lends itself to interesting cases and story lines. In Two Kinds of Truth, Harry starts out revisiting a cold case for the San Fernando Police Department. The other part of Two Kinds of Truth that I loved was the resolution of the cold case Harry was pursuing. And the other, malleable truth of politicians, charlatans, corrupt lawyers, and their clients, bent and molded to serve whatever purpose is at hand.” As the mother of three children, I have had to spend an inordinate amount of time this past year making sure my kids understand how important the truth is and how important it is to refuse to accept those that attempt to corrupt truth."
"Two subplots share our attention in the book: (A) a double murder of a local father-son pharmacist team and (B) an attempt to get a 30-year old death sentence overturned based of alleged malfeasance by then-lead detective Bosch. Connelly crafts an intricate subplot that exposes his familiarity with police and courtroom procedures, and his understanding of the interpersonal relationships shared by investigators who cooperate, or compete, to solve complex crimes."
"I think the suggestion that a lender could impose a right to approve sale in a residential loan, particularly with the purpose of getting the home through foreclosure since the lender had prevented any sale, is pretty silly."
"I could not put it down- in this story some of his past partners show up and I like when his goes back in his history (after 20 Bosch books -plots and characters begin to merge or worse forgotten) Haller (Bosch’s half brother) is in the story and his daughter-the plot is fast paced and the resolution is smart and clever."
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A Criminal Defense (Philadelphia Legal)
The defendant, David Hanson, was Mick’s close friend in law school, and the victim, a TV news reporter, had reached out to Mick for legal help only hours before her death. “[In] Myers’s impressive debut…the gripping plot builds to an ending that’s a complete shocker.” — Publishers Weekly , Starred Review. When a young reporter is found dead and a prominentPhiladelphia businessman is accused of her murder Mick McFarland finds himselfinvolved in the case of his life. The defendant, David Hanson, was Micks' closefriend in law school, and the victim, a TV news reporter had reached out toMick for legal help only hours before her death.
Reviews
"I'm retired after 35 years of practicing criminal law as a public defender and having lived it, I really hate the melodrama of legal thrillers. First, I've never been employed in a private law practice, but I'm aware of the pressures that cause some lawyers to bend the ethical rules, so I can say that what transpires here is within the realm of possibility. Second, having been first chair in a number of capital murder trials, I can tell you that from a legal procedure standpoint, Mr. Myers is virtually spot on."
"The book moves at a brisk pace, with new developments in each chapter."
"If you love procedural legal dramas and mysteries you will love “A Criminal Defense’ by William L. Myers Jnr…. This is filled with clever courtroom angst, conflict and drama. A young female journo is found dead and a prominent businessman is the accused… and our male Lead – Mick McFarland, defence attorney extraordinaire is in for the case of his life!"
"This book cost 1.99 and it was equally as good as books I paid 14.99. A well written book."
"And this author's knowledge of the criminal justice system makes the story sizzle. He makes sure you know there is more going on in this murder trial than meets the eye. And that is high praise from a reader with a low tolerance for mediocre writing."
"When David Hanson, a rich, well-thought of business man, is arrested and charged with the murder of a young female journalist, he hires his old friend Mick as his defense attorney."
"Once I started reading I didn't want to put the book down."
"This gripping legal procedural is well mixed with family, firm and friend problems."
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Best Heist Thrillers

Camino Island: A Novel
A generous offer of money convinces Mercer to go undercover and infiltrate Bruce Cable’s circle of literary friends, ideally getting close enough to him to learn his secrets. John Grisham is the author of thirty novels, one work of nonfiction, a collection of stories, and six novels for young readers.
Reviews
"I was originally expecting a few more "thriller" elements, but I'm actually glad that Grisham did not include chases or high suspense, because I think they would have weakened the story in the end."
"Another issue with the book was the basic unbelievability of the idea that an insurance company would consider a young, underachieving woman potentially valuable in uncovering a master thief who was hiding extremely valuable manuscripts that had been stolen from Princeton University - enough so that they would invest heavily in her as an undercover agent. I had no desire to stay up all night finishing the book, but I don't think it was meant to be an all night thriller - just a very pleasant read for lovers of books and book business."
"I’ve gotten several books recently that were a waste of effort (mine and the author’s), but I am happy to report this was nto the case."
"Not one of Grisham's best but still entertaining."
"If John Grishams name was not on this book,it would have never been published.It is banal ,trite and dull.Save your money and time,it isn't worthy of either one.."
"I'd gotten to the point where I thought I knew what to expect from him, so I automatically buy his new books the day they're first available."
"It starts out with some promisingly interesting characters pulling off a heist, 4 F Scott Fitzgerald manuscript, from the Princeton U library."
"I guess I am one of those kind of readers looking for entertainment that wraps everything up in a neat little package and the bad guys pay for their crimes."
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Best Kidnapping Thrillers

The Butterfly Garden (The Collector Trilogy Book 1)
As her story twists and turns, slowly shedding light on life in the Butterfly Garden, Maya reveals old grudges, new saviors, and horrific tales of a man who’d go to any length to hold beauty captive. Dot Hutchison is the author of A Wounded Name , a young adult novel based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet , and the adult thriller The Butterfly Garden .
Reviews
"This review does not contain spoilers, however, I do discuss points included in Amazon's summary description; if you consider those spoilers, avoid this review. -o-. 'The Butterfly Garden' is told in alternating first and third-person-limited perspectives: the main character relates her story to FBI agents following her rescue from the Garden. When used by experienced writers (Rothfuss' 'Name of the Wind' is a good example), a nested story can be very effective. It was hard to believe in the setting, both that it could exist (how do you find contractors to build this sort of thing?). The third person portions tended to exposition, which made those times in the story feel like they moved more slowly. The 'twist' at the ending was unnecessary, without adequate foreshadowing to make it satisfying for the reader."
"The first problem is the setting; It's hard to picture the "butterflies" ( The kidnapped girls) being kept in some kind of enormous greenhouse (big enough to hold a pond for swimming, a waterfall, a cliff, a glorious garden, a kitchen, rooms, hallways, essentially and entire compound) inside an even bigger greenhouse on the killer's private house grounds. Such a colossal structure wouldn't slip by prying eyes for the nearly 30 years that the Gardener has been abducting girls. You're led to believe that the survivor, Maya, may or may not be on the right side but then she starts singing like a canary right after that and the mystery is lost. Maya was protecting her former roommate who was the one butterfly who had escaped 10 years prior, pregnant with the Gardener's child. That's all.The author seemed to be more concerned with reminding the reader every few pages that a butterfly was being raped or beaten by the Gardener and his son instead of moving the story forward at an even pace. The fact that the only time Maya shows any emotion is when she's developing affections for the Gardener's other son, Desmond (who discovers the truth and doesn't go to the police until 6 months later) is infuriating."
"I reread the end 3 times to make sure I was reading it correctly because it made so little sense."
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Best Murder Thrillers

Blood on the Tracks (Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 1)
A young woman is found brutally murdered, and the main suspect is the victim’s fiancé, a hideously scarred Iraq War vet known as the Burned Man. Do yourself a favor and give this bright talent a read.” —John Hart, multiple Edgar Award winner and New York Times bestselling author of Redemption Road. Barbara Nickless has written a twisting, tortured novel that speaks with brutal honesty of the lingering traumas of war, including and especially those wounds we cannot see. I fell hard for Parnell and her four-legged partner and can't wait to read more.” —Vicki Pettersson, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Swerve. Barbara Nickless has fashioned a beautifully drawn hero in take-charge, take-no-prisoners Sydney Parnell, former Marine and now a railway cop battling a deadly gang as she investigates their purported connection to a recent murder. Skilled in evoking emotion from the reader, Nickless is a master of the craft, a writer to keep your eyes on.” —Chris Goff, author of Dark Waters. “Barbara Nickless’s Blood on the Tracks is raw and authentic, plunging readers into the fascinating world of tough railroad cop Special Agent Sydney Rose Parnell and her Malinois sidekick, Clyde. Haunted by her military service in Iraq, Sydney Rose is brought in by the Denver Major Crimes unit to help solve a particularly brutal murder, leading her into a snake pit of hate and betrayal. Full of the suspense that holds you on the edge of your seat, it’s also replete with acts of bravery, moments of hope, and a host of feelings that keep the story’s intensity level high. An active member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, she has given workshops and speeches at numerous writing conferences and book events.
Reviews
"Here's a quick rundown, without spoilers: THE HEROINE -- At first, it appeared this was going to be another female character who somehow seems to do everything right despite all the angst she has to lug around. Her scene descriptions are vivid, and the attention to the thoughts of her main character Sydney is wonderful. ADDITIONAL WRITING THOUGHT -- The author uses transcripts of the main character's notes, interviews, journals, etc. I don't subtract stars if an author chooses to include language or sex, just letting potential readers know both exist in this book. For me, I enjoy when an author drops clues throughout the book that add up to a strong justification when the murderer is finally revealed, and I personally thought this could have been handled a little better. HOWEVER...even with the "twists" issue, the story is excellent and I found myself really liking the character of Sydney Parnell."
"Since I enjoy reading police procedural novels, I didn’t need to go past the summary description that this one included a K-9 partner to immediately select it as my Kindle First choice. While this is an especially interesting police procedural story since Sydney Rose Parnell and Clyde are part of a railroad police force, it goes much deeper."
"I was hooked from the first chapter - drawn in by the main character, Sydney, who hides her complex and compassionate nature beneath a stoic exterior."
"The story gives you the information about her past little by little, which made me love her character even more. I was pleasantly surprised when I finished the story and the second book popped up."
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Best Organized Crime Thrillers

Camino Island: A Novel
A generous offer of money convinces Mercer to go undercover and infiltrate Bruce Cable’s circle of literary friends, ideally getting close enough to him to learn his secrets. John Grisham is the author of thirty novels, one work of nonfiction, a collection of stories, and six novels for young readers.
Reviews
"I was originally expecting a few more "thriller" elements, but I'm actually glad that Grisham did not include chases or high suspense, because I think they would have weakened the story in the end."
"Another issue with the book was the basic unbelievability of the idea that an insurance company would consider a young, underachieving woman potentially valuable in uncovering a master thief who was hiding extremely valuable manuscripts that had been stolen from Princeton University - enough so that they would invest heavily in her as an undercover agent. I had no desire to stay up all night finishing the book, but I don't think it was meant to be an all night thriller - just a very pleasant read for lovers of books and book business."
"I like John Grisham novels enough to buy them without downloading a sample first but this one was kind of "meh" compared to his other ones."
"Great book by Grisham."
"JOHN ALWAYS WRITES REALLY WELL.. AND THIS STORY CERTAINLY WILL EDUCATE YOU ABOUT THE RARE BOOK INDUSTRY."
"If John Grishams name was not on this book,it would have never been published.It is banal ,trite and dull.Save your money and time,it isn't worthy of either one.."
"I'd gotten to the point where I thought I knew what to expect from him, so I automatically buy his new books the day they're first available."
"It starts out with some promisingly interesting characters pulling off a heist, 4 F Scott Fitzgerald manuscript, from the Princeton U library."
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Best Serial Killer Thrillers

A Dark Lure
Twelve years ago, Sarah Baker was abducted by the Watt Lake Killer and sexually assaulted for months before managing to escape. She has won the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for Romantic Suspense, the National Readers’ Choice Award, and the Romantic Crown for Best Romantic Suspense and Best Book Overall.
Reviews
"I was not interested at all in the dysfunctional family drama, the legal thriller which looked a bit boring to me, and the silly-looking teenage supernatural hunter book one of a series. By romance, I'm talking the whole nine yards - she noticing his biceps, deeply tanned skin, masculine appeal and yearning for what she has denied herself all these year, etc., this is it. As another reviewer said, this book was similar to "The One That Got Away" in it's plot of the one serial killer victim that escaped, but with serious PTSD which she fights to overcome. It is ridiculous that a just retired cop would lure the killer he still believes to be on the loose to the home of the victim that got away (not going into how he knew that) and not warn her or anyone else there of the danger. Yet, there are many readers who love books about strong female lead characters that overcome tremendous odds to survive. I also agree that there was rich texture in the depiction of the surroundings, which is the rugged Canadian northwest, which adds flavor to the book."
"Admittedly, the hero and heroine fit the standard expectations of the genre - she's tough and feisty, he's ultra cool and masculine without undermining her, and their attraction is immediate despite differences between them - but these characters also have some depth with their complicated histories, and the well-developed secondary characters bring a lot to the story and make it feel more grounded. In the end, I looked past these story elements because it is a romance, which often involves a degree of fantasy, and I enjoyed the story, which really is well written."
"What I liked: The book is told from different people's perspectives which normally would bother me but in this book it worked. The book just needed an epilogue like 6 months down the road to show where everything was at."
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Best Vigilante Justice Thrillers

The Girl Who Lived: A Thrilling Suspense Novel
As the anniversary of the murders approaches, Faith Winters is released from the psychiatric hospital and yanked back to the last spot on earth she wants to be—her hometown where the slayings took place. Wracked by the lingering echoes of survivor’s guilt, Faith spirals into a black hole of alcoholism and wanton self-destruction. Finding no solace at the bottom of a bottle, Faith decides to track down her sister’s killer—and then discovers that she’s the one being hunted. From the mind of Wall Street Journal bestselling author Christopher Greyson comes a story with twists and turns that take the reader to the edge of madness. exhilarating ending with a few surprises... Sharp characters enmeshed in a mystery that, particularly in its final lap, is a gleefully dizzy ride.” – Kirkus Reviews.
Reviews
"I am a huge fan of the Jack Stratton Series, by Christopher Greyson, so I was excited to receive The Girl Who Lived. The Girl Who Lived is a bit darker, it deals with survivors guilt and addictions that manifest themselves after a horrendous crime and the aftermath. I think anyone reading this book that can relate to her anxiety, despair, and emptiness will appreciate her struggle."
"Liked this book very much."
"Wow what a read."
"If you enjoy psychological thrillers and reading at a fast pace, not wanting to stop, The Girl Who Lived is the book for you."
"I liked the twists and turns."
"Very readable, nice plot, original characters."
"Not one of my favorites."
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Best Legal Thrillers

An Innocent Client (Joe Dillard Series Book 1)
His drug-addicted sister has just been released from prison and his mother is succumbing to Alzheimer's, but Dillard's commitment to the case never wavers despite the personal troubles and professional demands that threaten to destroy him. "Pratt's richly developed characters are vivid and believable, especially the strong Southern women who fight their male-dominated culture from behind a facade of vulnerability in this brilliantly executed debut."
Reviews
"Other writers will use long descriptions of what the landscaping is like as someone enters a driveway to a house, or a long paragraph describing what a woman is wearing and the scent of her perfume and the necklace she is wearing. And that is exactly what Scott Pratt avoids and makes his books such a delight to read. Each of his books in this series has a great plot that makes them a such page turner."
"He is totally fed up with the system of laws and courts, of police and prosecutors, of judges and juries and defenders wherein the truth never rises to the surface and justice is rarely found."
"While I am reading, I am inserted into the world he creates."
"This is an interesting start to a crime series."
"I thoroughly enjoyed this book..."
"The story involves a small town attorney, his family, his ambivalence to his career and a changing plot line of legal cases."
"She's innocent, ...or not."
"The story moves at a quick clip and the plot has enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested."
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Best Suspense Thrillers

Origin: A Novel
The #1 New York Times Bestseller from the author of The Da Vinci Code Bilbao, Spain Robert Langdon, Harvard professor of symbology and religious iconology, arrives at the ultramodern Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to attend a major announcement—the unveiling of a discovery that “will change the face of science forever.” The evening’s host is Edmond Kirsch, a forty-year-old billionaire and futurist whose dazzling high-tech inventions and audacious predictions have made him a renowned global figure. Navigating the dark corridors of hidden history and extreme religion, Langdon and Vidal must evade a tormented enemy whose all-knowing power seems to emanate from Spain’s Royal Palace itself . On a trail marked by modern art and enigmatic symbols, Langdon and Vidal uncover clues that ultimately bring them face-to-face with Kirsch’s shocking discovery . DAN BROWN is the author of numerous #1 international bestsellers, including The Da Vinci Code, Inferno , The Lost Symbol , Angels & Demons , Deception Point, and Digital Fortress .
Reviews
"I love Dan Brown's novels, his writing style, and his extensive use of history/tech in most of them, and I always learn something when I read his books. Brown has a plug and play format that he follows, and as I read this book, it's basically Robert Langdon at some educational/art venue where a friend/colleague, etc. There was supposed suspense, in that you want to find out what in the world Langdon's friend had to say before his murder--and of course, you have to wait until the end to find out."
"Racing through Spain with Robert Langdon and a captivating young woman named Ambra Vidal is an intriguing way to get us into this world of symbols, artwork and religious extremism. I’d still love to see Dan get back into the Templars someday, like he did in "The Da Vinci Code," but at least some good nonfiction books do that now. Moving from a secret, mountain-top meeting at Montserrat just outside Barcelona to a huge public affair at the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, we are teased with the idea that a revelation will be made which shakes all known religions to their core."
"When you think about the fact that Mr. Brown writes about scholars in their field, his knowledge and thorough detail are always second to none and he does not disappoint this time! Quick chapters, changes of scenes, plot twists....if it isn't broken, don't fix it! I felt that his goal was to (once again) anger the Catholic Church thus making his book a blockbuster."
"After the first few chapters the book hits a road block - it stops being a DaVinci code knock off and becomes something else. I also realized that the small passage of time directly related to the lengthy descriptions of art, books, etc. The early chapters describe the museum at Bilbo and I went online while I was reading to see pictures."
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Best Medical Thrillers

The Atlantis Plague: A Thriller (The Origin Mystery, Book 2)
The Atlantis Plague is the second book in The Origin Mystery , the trilogy that has become a global phenomenon. In Marbella, Spain, Dr. Kate Warner awakens to a horrifying reality: the human race stands on the brink of extinction. Nearly a billion people are dead--and those that the Atlantis Plague does not kill, it transforms at the genetic level. Industrialized nations offer a miracle drug, Orchid, which they mass produce and distribute to refugee camps around the world. The Immari envision a world populated by the genetically superior survivors--a new human race, ready to fulfill its destiny. With control of the world population hanging in the balance, the Orchid Alliance and the Immari descend into open warfare. This global adventure takes readers back into the world of The Origin Mystery, which began with THE ATLANTIS GENE. A.G. Riddle spent ten years starting internet companies before retiring to pursue his true passion: writing fiction. His debut novel, The Atlantis Gene , is the first book in The Origin Mystery , the trilogy that has sold over two million copies in the US, has been translated into 18 languages, and is in development to be a major motion picture. His recently released fourth novel, Departure , follows the survivors of a flight that takes off in the present and crash-lands in a changed world.
Reviews
"This book definitely had me hitting the "buy next book" immediately."
"This is a military type drama where there is one good guy who has to upset the whole bad regime (think 24 the TV series). The final element of the plot is human evolution and history, which again is very intricately interwoven into the bio-military aspects and well researched. It almost feels like the story line may have had a well sculpted start and end (hopefully) and that this second book is for clarification and set-up for the final showdown."
"David and Kate find themselves in danger as we, the readers, find ourselves wanting answers to all the questions we have asked."
"I really enjoyed how the subject matter was handled, and I enjoyed learning all sorts of historical tidbits."
"I fell in love with the characters and the premis in the first book, and I would highly recommend the Atlantis Plague to continue the story."
"If you're buying this book, be sure you have read The Atlantis Gene first; it fills in some blanks that may leave you wondering."
"This would translate well to a movie series, or mini-series, something like Battlestar Galactica meet Star Wars. We like the overall message of the Atlantis Series & commend the author, who must have a wonderful, complex brain."
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Best Military Thrillers

Breakthrough
A SECRET THAT WAS NEVER SUPPOSED TO BE FOUND. However, when an unknown group immediately becomes interested in her work, Alison realizes John Clay may be the only person she can trust. - Gail Ward "You'll miss a great experience if you don't read this book." "After I finished "Breakthrough" at 11pm in bed I immediately bought his next book; "Amid The Shadows" without even reading the synopsis or the reviews. Being retired and having read several hundred Kindle books, I can honestly say this has to be the most exciting heart pounding story I have yet read on my Kindle. I give it 10 stars out of 5 and - as another reviewer said "I guarantee you'll be downloading his next book.... As a postscript, I finished the book, found that the author had another Amazon book available, Amid the Shadows, and immediately downloaded it. I expect great things from Mr. Grumley and am looking for his next book.
Reviews
"I am 72 years old and I have been reading science fiction since I discovered the genre 68 years ago."
"I am going to buy the next book now to see how the story continues."
"I am tired of reading sci-fi with the promise of an interesting topic and then the author manages to make it boring."
"The story was interesting and well written."
"Clive Cussler better watch his six as this new author takes off!"
"There was much criticism of waves not being about to cancel each other.....Please note that waves can cancel each other out such as standing waves which are the result of two equal waves are going in opposite direction and in this case you get the usual up/down motion of the water surface but the waves don’t progress."
"The story line was enhanced at the beginning by the well-described, but disparate, scenarios of Naval submarine issues in the Caribbean, research on dolphin communications in Miami, and strange events occurring in Antarctica. Having the Miami aquarium research lab rebuilt just like that after the government took it apart was also unrealistic, as was the contrived protection of the populace on the island preceding the second nuclear explosion."
"I liked the story."
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Best Financial Thrillers

The Dead Key
Twenty years before, amid strange staff disappearances and allegations of fraud, panicked investors sold Cleveland’s largest bank in the middle of the night, locking out customers and employees, and thwarting a looming federal investigation. Iris, a young engineer working her first job out of the office, finds herself assigned to map out a floor plan for the bank building which has been empty for two decades. Just as Beatrice did 20 years before her, Iris quickly recognizes that there’s something not quite right at the bank and she soon learns that the building is not as empty as everyone thinks.
Reviews
"When I was a regular shopper at my local bookstores, my initial selection was based off thickness (how I discovered Robert Jordon and Terry Goodkind and others of that epic length writing). THE DEAD KEY, however, is largely one single, long wind-up, the pacing not really picking up till well past the last quarter. moments rolling, the suspense tight with wonderment and discovery, simply an exquisite plotline that has made the game a cult classic. And the ending... well, a completion within the same emotional level as Arturo Pérez-Reverte's 1993 novel, THE CLUB DUMAS had concluded with (the novel may be recognized by more as the later movie, THE NINTH GATE). All in all, enjoyable, yet I do have to wonder how even more fantastic these elements would be if the book was the same 477 pages but made tauter in pacing, richer in action, and, yes, even more deeply layered."
"Her use of two major characters in different times yet in the same location brings new meaning to "Hot in Cleveland"."
"Lots of interesting plot twists and turns, with interesting characters, although, not necessarily characters you fall in love with. Matter of fact, I thought the main protagonist was a self-destructive, self-centered, alcoholic with a decidedly myopic view of life."
"The story concept is interesting: an important bank mysteriously closes overnight. When I was about 1/3 into the story it seemed that n.o.t.h.i.n.g. Reading the early reviews, I was sure I was reading a different book. For example, in most instances, we don't read about the secretary's workday, we read about her thinking about her workday or thinking about the personalities of the people she works with, or wondering where her friend is, or wondering about the significance of papers she sees. For example, the engineer meets her boss at the building and explains to him some of the work she has done, but (from the reader perspective) this is merely retelling what the engineer already mused about in the previous pages: she went to the eighth floor, to the room on the left; it was dusty; she made some measurements; she went to the next room; she saw papers on the floor; she wondered why the papers were left behind; she made some measurements; she looked at some of the papers; she wondered what the papers meant; she decided to take some of the papers with her to look at later; she went to the next room; she made some measurements. I second that thought."
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Best Technothrillers

Origin: A Novel
The #1 New York Times Bestseller from the author of The Da Vinci Code Bilbao, Spain Robert Langdon, Harvard professor of symbology and religious iconology, arrives at the ultramodern Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to attend a major announcement—the unveiling of a discovery that “will change the face of science forever.” The evening’s host is Edmond Kirsch, a forty-year-old billionaire and futurist whose dazzling high-tech inventions and audacious predictions have made him a renowned global figure. Navigating the dark corridors of hidden history and extreme religion, Langdon and Vidal must evade a tormented enemy whose all-knowing power seems to emanate from Spain’s Royal Palace itself . On a trail marked by modern art and enigmatic symbols, Langdon and Vidal uncover clues that ultimately bring them face-to-face with Kirsch’s shocking discovery . -- People Magazine "A brisk new book that pits creationism against science, and is liable to stir up as much controversy as The Da Vinci Code did. In Origin , the brash futurist Edmond Kirsch comes up with a theory so bold, so daring that, as he modestly thinks to himself in Brown’s beloved italics, “ It will not shake your foundations. And just like he was in his original exploits ( Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code ), Dr. Langdon is once again wrapped up in a global-scale event that could have massive ramifications on the world’s religions. Origin is a familiar blend of travelogue, history, conspiracies and whodunit, with asides on everything from the poetry of William Blake to the rise and fall of fascism in Spain." Dan Brown is the author of numerous #1 international bestsellers, including The Da Vinci Code, Inferno , The Lost Symbol , Angels & Demons , Deception Point, and Digital Fortress .
Reviews
"I love Dan Brown's novels, his writing style, and his extensive use of history/tech in most of them, and I always learn something when I read his books. Brown has a plug and play format that he follows, and as I read this book, it's basically Robert Langdon at some educational/art venue where a friend/colleague, etc. There was supposed suspense, in that you want to find out what in the world Langdon's friend had to say before his murder--and of course, you have to wait until the end to find out."
"Although Brown’s writing will not rank well among the great classics, his books turned into film will pack theaters and encourage history buffs to travel Europe. KEY POINTS Using history, science and religion for a thriller is one of the better ways to incite curiosity among readers. Excerpt. ‘…“If you’ve read my books,” Langdon’s voice continued, “you will have heard me use the term ‘God of the Gaps.’ That is to say, when the ancients experienced gaps in their understanding of the world around them, they filled those gaps with God.”. The sky filled now with a massive collage of paintings and statues depicting dozens of ancient deities. “And yet, over the centuries, scientific knowledge increased.” A collage of mathematical and technical symbols flooded the sky overhead. “As the gaps in our understanding of the natural world gradually disappeared, our pantheon of gods began to shrink.”. On the ceiling, the image of Poseidon came to the forefront. “As you know, the same fate befell all the gods—dying off, one by one, as they outlived their relevance to our evolving intellects.”. Overhead, the images of gods began twinkling out, one by one—gods of thunder, earthquakes, plagues, and on and on. These gods did not ‘go gentle into that good night’; it is a messy process for a culture to abandon its deities. Spiritual beliefs are etched deeply on our psyches at a young age by those we love and trust most—our parents, our teachers, our religious leaders. Therefore, any religious shifts occur over generations, and not without great angst, and often bloodshed.”. The sound of clattering swords and shouting now accompanied the gradual disappearance of the gods, whose images winked out one by one. Finally, the image of a single god remained—an iconic wizened face with a flowing white beard. Zeus, more than any other god, resisted his own extinction, mounting a violent battle against the dying of his own light, precisely as had the earlier gods Zeus had replaced.”. On the ceiling flashed images of Stonehenge, the Sumerian cuneiform tablets, and the Great Pyramids of Egypt."
"After the first few chapters the book hits a road block - it stops being a DaVinci code knock off and becomes something else. I also realized that the small passage of time directly related to the lengthy descriptions of art, books, etc. The early chapters describe the museum at Bilbo and I went online while I was reading to see pictures."
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Best Supernatural Thrillers

Ready Player One: A Novel
Wade's devoted his life to studying the puzzles hidden within this world's digital confines—puzzles that are based on their creator's obsession with the pop culture of decades past and that promise massive power and fortune to whoever can unlock them. A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER “The science-fiction writer John Scalzi has aptly referred to READY PLAYER ONE as a 'nerdgasm' [and] there can be no better one-word description of this ardent fantasy artifact about fantasy culture…But Mr. Cline is able to incorporate his favorite toys and games into a perfectly accessible narrative.” —Janet Maslin, The New York Times “Triggers memories and emotions embedded in the psyche of a generation...[Cline crafts] a fresh and imaginative world from our old toy box, and finds significance in there among the collectibles. It marries the fantastical world of Harry Potter with a touch of Orson Scott Card—where fantasy is reality, geeks are cool, and the possibilities are endless.” — New York Journal of Books “ Ridiculously fun and large-hearted, and you don't have to remember the Reagan administration to love it…[Cline] takes a far-out premise and engages the reader instantly…You'll wish you could make it go on and on.” —NPR.org. “A delirious, crypto-nerd fantasia...Crammed with ’80s nostalgia and sugar-high prose, it's ridiculous and addictive and full of toy surprises.” —Village Voice “A smart, funny thriller that both celebrates and critiques online culture...Layered with inside jokes and sly references.” —San Francisco Chronicle “A fun, funny and fabulously entertaining first novel…This novel's large dose of 1980s trivia is a delight…[but] even readers who need Google to identify Commodore 64 or Inky, Blinky, Pinky and Clyde, will enjoy this memorabilian feast.” — Cleveland Plain Dealer “The grown-up's 'Harry Potter’…the mystery and fantasy in this novel weaves itself in the most delightful way, and the details that make up Mr. Cline's world are simply astounding. Grade: A.” —AVClub.com “A preposterously great read and a richly imagined science-fiction world that uses the very idea of nostalgia as a thematic jumping-off point...One of the true geek events of the year.” —HitFix.com “This non-gamer loved every page of READY PLAYER ONE.” —Charlaine Harris, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Sookie Stackhouse series. I loved every sentence of this book.” —Mark Frauenfelder, BoingBoing "A 'frakking' good read [featuring] incredible creative detail … I grinned at the sheer audacity of Cline's imagination.” — Milwaukee Journal Sentinel “ [A] fantastic page-turner….READY PLAYER ONE may be science fiction, but it's also written for people who have never picked up an SF novel in their lives…” —Annalee Newitz, io9.com. “I really, really loved READY PLAYER ONE…Cline expertly mines a copious vein of 1980s pop culture, catapulting the reader on a light-speed adventure in an advanced but backward-looking future.” —Daniel H. Wilson, New York Times bestselling author of Robopocalypse.
Reviews
"The story is fine, but the bulk of the narrative is built around the author showing off his 80s era trivia chops. The If you remove his intense and deep knowledge of the decade (with a few head nods to the 90s and even the 00s) the story is mediocre at best."
"I look forward to the movie, I have confidence knowing the author wrote the script and worked alongside Speilberg among others to put this film together."
"I hope the film does justice to some of the more intense scenes, I think they'll be great in a movie if they pull out all the stops!"
"It makes you feel like you can really picture what is happening as well, maybe there will be some references you won't get, well of course, the author is extremely knowledgeable about his 80's and 90's hits and movies and all those goodies, it's hard to read the book and not get a reference unless you're from a generation that isn't even born yet. Great movie by the way, hahaha, watched that movie and thought it was so cool that it was in the book, the references aren't in your face and forces you to stop reading and look it up, it won't get in the way of the books, but it is very cool if you know even more of what's going on."
"It takes a bit to get started as the world is set up but absolutely worth plowing through it."
"Ever started a book and honestly couldn’t put it down even if you have a full time job, a spouse, a kid, and bills to pay?"
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Best Psychological Thrillers

I Am Watching You
Anna’s best friend, Sarah, hasn’t been telling the whole truth about what really happened that night—and her parents have been keeping secrets of their own. Someone knows where Anna is—and they’re not telling. Covering crime for so long, she watched and was deeply moved by all the ripples each case caused, and the haunting impact on the families, friends and witnesses involved.
Reviews
"However, when the author moved to subsequent chapters (everything else in third person), the phrases and partial sentences continued. The other stylistic device used over and over was the introduction of a secret at the end of almost every chapter. When the guilty person is finally revealed, it was difficult to believe that the police would have neglected to perform a full investigation (the author tells us at the end that police only did a “cursory” investigation on the person). I hesitate to say more as it would potentially become a spoiler, but for me, this became a fatal flaw and made the ending feel forced."
"This story follows the perspectives of Ella, Sarah, Anna's father, and a private investigator in the year following Anna's disappearance. Although not to this extreme, I think most people can relate to being in a position where you question whether or not to say something or stay quiet and mind your own business."
"Fast-moving plot full of unpredictable twists; flawed yet sympathetic characters; realistic dialog."
"Each chapter was a cliffhanger that carried into the next chapter."
"Many POTs."
"I really enjoyed this book."
"This book grabbed me and kept me up until 3am two nights in a row, guessing until the end."
"I found this story a bit slow at first and then the tempo just building and building until I couldn't put it down."
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Best Spies & Political Thrillers

The Short Drop (The Gibson Vaughn Series Book 1)
A decade ago, fourteen-year-old Suzanne Lombard, the daughter of Benjamin Lombard—then a senator, now a powerful vice president running for the presidency—disappeared in the most sensational missing-person case in the nation’s history. “This live-wire debut begins with a promising lead in the long-ago disappearance of the vice president’s daughter, then doubles down with tangled conspiracies, duplicitous politicians, and a disgraced hacker hankering for redemption...Hang on and enjoy the ride.” — People. “Unbridled power and relentless revenge converge in the exciting, tightly plotted The Short Drop ...The multifaceted Gibson has the makings to support a long series.” —SouthFlorida.com.
Reviews
"That said, I did enjoy the second half of the book which did keep moving from beginning to end, holding my interest without my having to push myself to read it like I did for the first half of the book. So, when the central plot line in The Short Drop turned out to be the fact that a current Presidential candidate's 13 year old daughter had been kidnapped, I merely wrote that off as a coincidence."
"I’ve found that thrillers, particularly those with a political bent, can be a little light on character development and a little heavy on the unbelievable-and-over-the-top plots. The characters are well developed, complex and multi-faceted, flawed and susceptible to injury (both emotional and physical)."
"As an old retired IT guy it made sense to me where it needed to and was not written for the 17 year old."
"This book caught my attention from the sample on Kindle and held it through half a week while I told myself I had time of other already purchased books to read."
"His characters are beautifully developed and appropriately psychologically complex, so much so that the reader doesn't know who the "bad guy" is and might even fall in love with him or her in the meantime. 4.5 stars. Note: Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review."
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