Friday, February 22, 2013

The Asset

Author - Alan Peterson



Rating - 5 Stars (Out of 5)

The Asset by Alan Petersen is a James Bondesque spy thriller full of action and the ever popular conflicted romance. Don't get the wrong idea by that statement though as this book is very much its own beast. The author puts his own spin on the story and shows the reader an extensive knowledge of Latin American culture, even throwing in some spanish dialouge to give it that latin "feel."

The main character Pete Maddox is a CIA operative stationed in Venezuala. As the book progresses he uncovers secrets hidden in the jungle that send this novel spiraling into a non-stop adventure. Torn between what feels right, and what he knows to be right, the reader can't help but sympathize and hope for the best.
This book is elegantly written and if you are into books of this type then you will not be disappointed by The Asset. From the first chapter the reader is quickly sucked into the story. You won't want to put this book down because you will want to know what is going to happen next.

In regards to character development, the author does an outstanding job. There aren't too many characters who are just thrown in with no explanation as to who they are. They are clearly identified and all have a story behind them which gives the book a human touch.

Things start to slow down towards the end a bit, something I wish weren't the case as I like books that tend to end on a cliff hanger and make you imagine what happens later on rather than wind down. The only issue I found with the book was that from time to time it jumped around too abrubtly and for some could cause some confusion. It also appeared some chapters could have been split into two, but these really are just minor things.

All in all, I was extremely impressed and would highly recommend this title to anyone. I definately look forward to any future titles by Mr. Petersen.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Omega Zero

Author - Ryan Henry

Genre - Post-Apocalyptic Survival Fiction



Rating - 5 Stars (Out of 5)

I am extremely picky when it comes to books. If the first few pages don't leave me wanting more I typically stop reading. Omega Zero sucks you in from the very first page and it begs the reader to keep turning pages.

The novel follows Trent a former Marine through a roller coaster of tragic events all beginning with a drug deal gone bad. This event leads him on a journey that will shock you even more than the character himself.

It is very seldom you find a book in which you actually feel the character's pain. As you read on you can feel every emotion Trent is feeling, like you are living the moment with him.

If you are looking for a book with one of those happily ever afters, this is not it. However if you are looking for a book that is realistic and true to the authors vision then you will not be disappointed.

The book as a whole is written professionally and elegantly. Ryan Henry proves he has a fantastic understanding of the English Language. I think he may not even know how great an author he is.

Not too short, not too long, but packed from start to finish with heart pounding action. This book is perfect in every way.

Confessions of a Prepper: How to Plan and Protect Your Family and Friends During any Disaster

Author - BJ Knights


Rating - 4 Stars (Out of 5)

An outstanding beginner's guide/how to manual for prepping for any disaster. The author makes the overwhelming task of getting yourself and your family ready for when tragedy strikes.

Despite what many may initially think when they come across this publication, it is not a conspiracy theorists bible. It covers everything from natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes to economic collapse. The author couldn't come across any more sane. The views are realistic and he provides many valuable resources to use in your preperations. Through his writing he finds a way to show readers how important this stuff really is.

This book gives many basic supply lists that everybody should be working on putting together. Even if you don't follow them to a T, they include items that no home should be without, especially when you find yourself in the midst of a disaster, whether man made or natural.

The only thing I would like to see fixed in this particular book (and what kept this from a 5 star review) is a few simple grammer mistakes. They are few and far between and don't interfere with the message of the author, however they are noticable when you come upon them. Outside of that, I would highly recommend this book to anyone. It is a great tool for those interested in getting started with prepping, as well as those that may need a little push in that direction. I am definately looking forward to future titles from this author.