Andrew Updegrove

Thank you so much to the author for giving me the honour of reading this book in exchange for an honest review.

""Thank you for your contribution to the Alexandria Project" is the message cyber attackers leave behind as they delete crucial data from computer networks across America. It's not long before the nation is on the verge of collapse as Wall Street, the transportation system, government agencies, and the rest of our internet-based economy all fall victim to the attacks of unknown assailants. As the public outcry builds, Frank Adversego, a brilliant but conflicted cyber security expert, finds himself under suspicion as well as trapped in a power play between the FBI and the CIA. Only by tracing the Alexandria Project back to the source can he clear himself. What follows is a fast-paced, satirical tale of cyber sleuthing, international espionage, and nuclear brinksmanship that accurately portrays our increasing vulnerability to cyber attack. The surprise ending will leave readers both ready for the next Frank Adversego thriller, as well as concerned about where our headlong rush onto the Internet may be leading us."

This thriller absolutely TERRIFIED me. The thought of a thriller being based around the internet, something we all rely on so heavily, and it having real life implications is honestly horrific, and I think this is one of the many reasons that this novel is so effective at achieving its goals. It highlights the brilliant, yet terrifying, reliance on technology we are developing and really makes you think about what exactly can go wrong. And the fact that that can happen to anyone is what is so scary about this.

The most appealing thing about this novel, to me, is the plot. It's a very intelligent book that some readers may struggle to understand (I was one of them, and I don't consider myself an unintelligent person!) until they get to grips with what's going on. I'm not all that versed with computers so sometimes it went over my head a little, but I still managed to grasp what was happening and follow the story which was great. What's not to love? This novel has family, conspiracy, fear, crime, attempted murders... Everything about this plot is thrilling and I couldn't wait to find out what happens next!

As well as the plot being incredibly intelligent, the writing was also. It's not exactly the most fast-paced thriller. But that's okay, it doesn't have to be, because even on the slower parts you are kept engaged. There are some really moving moments between family members and I found them a touching break to the rest of the action in the story, and they were written delicately and well. I think the balance of fast paced and slow paced was done perfectly.

I would have liked to have seen a bit more character development within this book, as the main character is a little bit flat in some places, but I can totally overlook this because of the excellent writing. Hopefully as the series progresses, we see a bit more development for Frank. I still cared enough about him to want him to be alright in the end and catch the bad guy, but he could have had a little bit more personality in parts.

Overall I'd rate this an easy 5/5 stars and can't wait to read the next in the series!… (meer)