When renowned scientists start dying, the scientific community is on full alert. MI6 calls on Willis to use his background as a renowned astronomer to infiltrate the scientists to discover the truth behind the deaths. The murders appear to be unrelated; their only connection is that they happened in scientific centres of excellence in Switzerland and the United States. Who are doing the killing? Why are they killing? When Willis starts to uncover the facts, everyone is under suspicion… until they start dying. The situation gets more dangerous as two hired assassins hunt him down. Brad Willis knows that he must survive to find and stop their leaders. Their objective.. worldwide economic chaos.
Tom Boles has written an enjoyable and original story. As a renowned astronomer, Brad Willis is regularly commissioned by MI6 to investigate cases. Whilst not a covert operative himself it is quite clear that Brad can equip himself well when his back is against the wall which it is regularly in this novel.
The book is well written with several well rounded characters including Brad himself. I particularly liked the way Tom gives enough personality to a number of the protagonists to make sure they aren’t just there to make up the numbers. In true hero fashion Brad does look after his love interest in the book but also wrestles with his conscience concerning his late wife. Even though this is not detailed in the story with preference to refer to her passing as a pre-existing event it still adds depth to his character.
I do feel that perhaps a little more to Brad’s back story early in the novel would have helped to shape him even more. The story moves at a good pace and comprises several plots as the investigation unfolds. As the finale brings the main adventure to its conclusion the novel continues and perhaps more than it needs to. Although this does shape things up for further stories it feels a little out of place and almost an extension to the Epilogue.
Tom presents his dialogue well and does capture emotions accurately. On occasion the dialogue does wander into science which is slightly overdone but still credible. All in all this is a good read with believable characters and blends science with action at a good pace. I award this story a credible 3.5 stars.
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