by Douglas E. Richards
Paragon Press, 2013
Adult Science Fiction / Thriller
Dr. Kira Miller is a brilliant scientist who has found a way to increase both human longevity and intelligence. But there are downsides. Intellectual arrogance and a sociopathic disregard for lesser people come with enhanced intelligence and could lead to disastrous consequences. The government considers her dangerous and will do whatever it takes to catch her.
In Wired, she convinced David Desh, the operative sent to find her, that her intentions are not evil and that she was set up. After faking their deaths, she and David are secretly married and building a network of brilliant scientists to aid them. She guards her supply of gelcaps to make sure they are only used to enhance intelligence under controlled conditions or extreme duress.
In the prologue of the sequel, Amped, their enemies find them and attack their laboratory. Kira and David escape, but their colleague Ross Metzger isn't so lucky. Kira and David soldier on, until one of their scientists is abducted. This time the government's man is Colonel Morris "Jake" Jacobson who is convinced Kira is the most dangerous human on earth. A cat and mouse game ensues between the two sides.
At first, I found the beginning of the book a little slow and seemingly more of the same. The surprise in this sequel came in the form of a surprising and intriguing subplot involving a space probe approaching earth, apparently sent by an advanced alien society. It will take all of earth's scientists and leaders working together to solve this problem.
Amped is more high powered action combined with cutting edge science and philosophical discussion. Another great read from Douglas E. Richards that entertains while asking questions about the nature of humanity, the limits of intelligence, and the ability of humans to survive their own worst impulses. Enjoyable thriller.
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Linda
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6 comments:
Two sic-fi today. Unusual but both sound like great reads.
It sounds like an intriguing mix of genres. Thanks for the intro to an author new to me.
Sci fi and dystopian thrillers are pretty big these days.
It sounds fast-paced. Which is what I'm looking for. I just finished two adult novels that were great, but slower paced. Amped sounds perfect. Even the title! Thanks for reviewing.
Interesting premise, exploring the real ramifications of things we all secretly wish were real. Thanks for letting me know about this!
I should have said that I advise reading Wired first, since Amped is a sequel.
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