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Overload
In the middle of a sweltering July heat wave that has no end in sight, California’s Golden State Power and Light is on overload. An emergency brownout is already in effect. Then, GSP&L’s newest and largest generator explodes. With four people dead and a widespread loss of power, a fringe group takes responsibility. But for GSP&L vice president Nim Goldman and his family; his adversary, investigative reporter Nancy Molineaux; detective Harry London; and beautiful quadriplegic Karen Sloan, whose every breath depends on electric power, the terror is just beginning . . .
A dramatic and timely story of the people and the events leading to a crisis, Overload presents a fascinating view of the little-known world of electric power production that is vital to contemporary life.
A dramatic and timely story of the people and the events leading to a crisis, Overload presents a fascinating view of the little-known world of electric power production that is vital to contemporary life.
540 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1978
614 people are currently reading
1260 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Hailey
94 books765 followersArthur Hailey was a British/Canadian novelist. After working at a number of jobs and writing part-time, he became a writer full-time during 1956, encouraged by the success of the CBC television drama, Flight into Danger (in print as
Runway Zero Eight
). Following the success of Hotel in 1965, he moved to California; followed by a permanent move to the Bahamas in 1969.
Each of his novels has a different industrial or commercial setting and includes, in addition to dramatic human conflict, carefully researched information about the way that particular environment and system functions and how these affect society and its inhabitants.
Critics often dismissed Hailey's success as the result of a formulaic "potboiler" style, in which he caused an ordinary character to become involved in a crisis, then increased the suspense by switching among multiple related plot lines.
Hailey would spend approximately one year researching a subject, followed by six months reviewing his notes and, finally, about 18 months writing the book.
Many of his books reached #1 on the New York Times bestseller list and more than 170 million copies have been sold worldwide in 40 languages. Many have been made into movies and Hotel was made into a long-running television series. Airport became a successful film with dramatic visual effects.
A Canadian citizen whose children live in Canada and California, Hailey made his home in Lyford Cay, an exclusive residential resort on New Providence Island in the Bahamas with his second wife Sheila.
In 2002, Hailey told John Marquis, editor of the Bahamas' principal daily newspaper The Tribune, that he was lucky in having supportive parents who encouraged him to believe in himself. Brought up in a working-class home, Hailey never lost the common touch following his phenomenal success. 'I have worked hard, but I have also been very lucky,' he said.
Each of his novels has a different industrial or commercial setting and includes, in addition to dramatic human conflict, carefully researched information about the way that particular environment and system functions and how these affect society and its inhabitants.
Critics often dismissed Hailey's success as the result of a formulaic "potboiler" style, in which he caused an ordinary character to become involved in a crisis, then increased the suspense by switching among multiple related plot lines.
Hailey would spend approximately one year researching a subject, followed by six months reviewing his notes and, finally, about 18 months writing the book.
Many of his books reached #1 on the New York Times bestseller list and more than 170 million copies have been sold worldwide in 40 languages. Many have been made into movies and Hotel was made into a long-running television series. Airport became a successful film with dramatic visual effects.
A Canadian citizen whose children live in Canada and California, Hailey made his home in Lyford Cay, an exclusive residential resort on New Providence Island in the Bahamas with his second wife Sheila.
In 2002, Hailey told John Marquis, editor of the Bahamas' principal daily newspaper The Tribune, that he was lucky in having supportive parents who encouraged him to believe in himself. Brought up in a working-class home, Hailey never lost the common touch following his phenomenal success. 'I have worked hard, but I have also been very lucky,' he said.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
July 18, 2020
In Overload,Hailey cautioned about the possibilities of blackouts and serious power shortages as he explored the inner workings of a giant power utility in California.
Thrown in for good measure are terrorists,explosions and a touching story about a paralyzed patient who depends on electricity to stay alive.
The subject matter is a bit dry and technical and this wasn't as successful as several of Hailey's other books.
But the central issue of power shortages remains very relevant.
I'm reminded time and again of this book as electricity has played a constant game of hide and seek for decades in Pakistan,particularly in the middle of scorching summers.And at the same time,it has become prohibitively expensive too.Hailey might as well have been writing about Pakistan.
Thrown in for good measure are terrorists,explosions and a touching story about a paralyzed patient who depends on electricity to stay alive.
The subject matter is a bit dry and technical and this wasn't as successful as several of Hailey's other books.
But the central issue of power shortages remains very relevant.
I'm reminded time and again of this book as electricity has played a constant game of hide and seek for decades in Pakistan,particularly in the middle of scorching summers.And at the same time,it has become prohibitively expensive too.Hailey might as well have been writing about Pakistan.
March 25, 2024
Every Hailey novel (and I've read quite a handful of them) is a little jewel. There is a strong plot and some secondary ones, characters are alive and have deepness, the author seems to do a beautiful documentary work in order to present his opinions on very different subjects, there are twists and turns, but there is one thing, perhaps more important than everything else:
Hailey had vision: he foresaw the declines of American industries, hostage crisis and California's energetical problems. That alone would be enough to see him as one of the best authors of his times...
Hailey had vision: he foresaw the declines of American industries, hostage crisis and California's energetical problems. That alone would be enough to see him as one of the best authors of his times...
August 7, 2011
On the surface this book is supposed to be about the behind the scenes drama concerning electricity. Who gets it, who pays for it, who produces it, etc. But really, how can you write an exciting novel about the electric company? No, what this book is really about is the hero's many, many, I mean many sexual conquests. Just about every woman he meets immediately wants to fall at his feet and spread her legs for him. He even has an affair with a quadriplegic woman. That's right, a woman paralyzed from the neck down, with no sensation or movement in a majority of her body, and he has sex with her.
Still, I would recommend this book because it was an easy, entertaining read. If you enjoy bad books that unintentially make you laugh or shake your head in wonderment that it ever got published, Overload is for you.
Still, I would recommend this book because it was an easy, entertaining read. If you enjoy bad books that unintentially make you laugh or shake your head in wonderment that it ever got published, Overload is for you.
December 8, 2025
Arthur Hailey brings a great story to readers with this well-crafted novel. I have read many of his stories, each completely different, but always full of great ideas, characters, and dialogue. The summer was so very hot, to the point that the heat wave had no end in sight. Golden State Power and Light (GSP&L), situated in the heart of California, was overloaded by all the needs during this heat wave. The company had no option other than to instill forced brownouts in order to save energy, though this emergency situation was anything but what the executives would like. Soon thereafter, chaos ensued when the company's main generator exploded, killing many and injuring others with horrible fallout. Power losses were significant and a fringe group claimed responsibility, hoping to make an impact for all those who rely on GSP&L. There were significant situations that soon emerged, with a number of key characters each playing roles in different vignettes. As Arthur Hailey does with many of his books, these characters eventually came together to ensure the key themes resonate for the attentive reader. Another stunning novel that tells so much and leaves the reader wanting even more!
Arthur Hailey is an author whose work I am thoroughly enjoying, with each piece completely unique. This story presents a raw glimpse into the world of utilities and those who are affected in many ways. It builds with a variety of narrative approaches, all of which flavour and enrich the larger story, while offering perspectives that keep the reader enthralled. Momentum gains traction with each chapter, allowing topics to come across as honest and edgy. Hailey uses some dramatic spins and great storytelling to ensure the reader flips pages until all is revealed, though not necessarily for the good. This is one book whose ideas mesh well and keep the reader wondering, while entertaining them in equal measure.
Characters set about creating their own backstories and development throughout the piece. Readers may enjoy the varied personalities and sentiments they offer or find one of particular interest and see how they grow by the story's completion. Many characters advance the plot of their own matters while flavouring the piece to highlight new layers, sometimes coming together while at other times dividing things in ways that cannot be mended. There are business executives trying to stay afloat, those who rely on electricity to stay alive, a terror cell wanting to create havoc, and even a sharp journalist who wants to break a story for all to read. The emergence of truths and deceptive ways amongst all characters helps pave the way for an even better piece, which Hailey delivers in his subtle manner.
Surprises are core in a story of this nature, as it begs to create an entertaining foundation. While the reader can tell what's likely going on in each chapter, twists embedded in the narrative add something more to the reading experience. The unpredictable side of the story leaves much for the reader to ponder. While Hailey keeps the major storylines separate, the tension spills over at key moments to ensure a degree of connectivity. Set decades ago, some of the ideas are still prevalent and keep the reader entertained as they assess everything going on. The reader surely waits to see what’s going to lead to a formal conclusion of the panic, only to be left with some cliffhangers that do not end things as expected. I am so pleased to have discovered Arthur Hailey's work and cannot wait to keep reading more from his vast collection.
Kudos, Mr. Hailey, for a story whose premise and delivery were gripping from the outset.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Arthur Hailey is an author whose work I am thoroughly enjoying, with each piece completely unique. This story presents a raw glimpse into the world of utilities and those who are affected in many ways. It builds with a variety of narrative approaches, all of which flavour and enrich the larger story, while offering perspectives that keep the reader enthralled. Momentum gains traction with each chapter, allowing topics to come across as honest and edgy. Hailey uses some dramatic spins and great storytelling to ensure the reader flips pages until all is revealed, though not necessarily for the good. This is one book whose ideas mesh well and keep the reader wondering, while entertaining them in equal measure.
Characters set about creating their own backstories and development throughout the piece. Readers may enjoy the varied personalities and sentiments they offer or find one of particular interest and see how they grow by the story's completion. Many characters advance the plot of their own matters while flavouring the piece to highlight new layers, sometimes coming together while at other times dividing things in ways that cannot be mended. There are business executives trying to stay afloat, those who rely on electricity to stay alive, a terror cell wanting to create havoc, and even a sharp journalist who wants to break a story for all to read. The emergence of truths and deceptive ways amongst all characters helps pave the way for an even better piece, which Hailey delivers in his subtle manner.
Surprises are core in a story of this nature, as it begs to create an entertaining foundation. While the reader can tell what's likely going on in each chapter, twists embedded in the narrative add something more to the reading experience. The unpredictable side of the story leaves much for the reader to ponder. While Hailey keeps the major storylines separate, the tension spills over at key moments to ensure a degree of connectivity. Set decades ago, some of the ideas are still prevalent and keep the reader entertained as they assess everything going on. The reader surely waits to see what’s going to lead to a formal conclusion of the panic, only to be left with some cliffhangers that do not end things as expected. I am so pleased to have discovered Arthur Hailey's work and cannot wait to keep reading more from his vast collection.
Kudos, Mr. Hailey, for a story whose premise and delivery were gripping from the outset.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 12, 2025
4.5
Я змушена зняти трошки оцінки за головного героя, це якийсь мрак а не чоловік. Хейлі писав його в тестостероновому угарі? Чувак спав тупо з усім що шевелиться, або навіть не дуже сильно шевелиться (але не те, що ви подумали). Дуже неприємна особа
Але вся інша частина книги чудова, виявилось робота електростанцій (різних типів) це надзвичайно цікаво. Навіть про махінації з лічильниками було захопливо читати
З іншої сторони у нас є екоактивісти, які заради досягнень своїх цілей не соромляться звертатись до терористів: давайте підірвемо станції, аби вони перестали нищити природу. Угу, ну да, довго ви без світла протримаєтесь. Наївні.
Топова тема, топовий сторітелінг, гидкий ГГ
Я змушена зняти трошки оцінки за головного героя, це якийсь мрак а не чоловік. Хейлі писав його в тестостероновому угарі? Чувак спав тупо з усім що шевелиться, або навіть не дуже сильно шевелиться (але не те, що ви подумали). Дуже неприємна особа
Але вся інша частина книги чудова, виявилось робота електростанцій (різних типів) це надзвичайно цікаво. Навіть про махінації з лічильниками було захопливо читати
З іншої сторони у нас є екоактивісти, які заради досягнень своїх цілей не соромляться звертатись до терористів: давайте підірвемо станції, аби вони перестали нищити природу. Угу, ну да, довго ви без світла протримаєтесь. Наївні.
Топова тема, топовий сторітелінг, гидкий ГГ
May 3, 2011
http://iandbooks.wordpress.com/
If you want to read about a profession or an industry and have fun reading it then Arthur Hailey is your man. He has written few books, but each of them is a detailed account of how a particular industry works. His research is superb and he uses the actual facts about the industry to build a story and he does it wonderfully. Overload is a book about Electricity generation companies in America. The book is a fiction but at the same time it tells you how the Power industry works.
I read this book some twenty years ago, still some things about the book are as fresh in my mind as though I read it last night. I really cannot forget the details that he provides about safety procedures that are used for disabled people in hospitals and for old and disabled people who stay at home and whose life depends on Electricity. The way hero of the book goes out of way to take care of such people during power outage is really touching. Of course, he has fictionalized it and romanticized it.
The book also talks about fight between environment safety and development. People use newer equipments and need more power but at the same time there is huge opposition to creation of newer power plants. The fact of the matter is that newer power plant will create damage to environment but is the damage worth it. If the damage is not worth it then who needs to make sure that we do not need more power. Until and unless, we reduce power consumption as users, the demand will keep on increasing. The solution is not in stopping of development. At the same time damage to environment is also a concern. The questions are very relevant even today specifically in developing countries who are undergoing similar conflicts on development and environment safety. Maybe there are better ways possible, if we can only think in more innovative ways.
He mentions about damage to environment even if a large solar power plant is created. That is something that I have not digested till today. He gave his logic but somehow I felt it was too shallow. Is there somebody out there who can help me on this?
If you want to read about a profession or an industry and have fun reading it then Arthur Hailey is your man. He has written few books, but each of them is a detailed account of how a particular industry works. His research is superb and he uses the actual facts about the industry to build a story and he does it wonderfully. Overload is a book about Electricity generation companies in America. The book is a fiction but at the same time it tells you how the Power industry works.
I read this book some twenty years ago, still some things about the book are as fresh in my mind as though I read it last night. I really cannot forget the details that he provides about safety procedures that are used for disabled people in hospitals and for old and disabled people who stay at home and whose life depends on Electricity. The way hero of the book goes out of way to take care of such people during power outage is really touching. Of course, he has fictionalized it and romanticized it.
The book also talks about fight between environment safety and development. People use newer equipments and need more power but at the same time there is huge opposition to creation of newer power plants. The fact of the matter is that newer power plant will create damage to environment but is the damage worth it. If the damage is not worth it then who needs to make sure that we do not need more power. Until and unless, we reduce power consumption as users, the demand will keep on increasing. The solution is not in stopping of development. At the same time damage to environment is also a concern. The questions are very relevant even today specifically in developing countries who are undergoing similar conflicts on development and environment safety. Maybe there are better ways possible, if we can only think in more innovative ways.
He mentions about damage to environment even if a large solar power plant is created. That is something that I have not digested till today. He gave his logic but somehow I felt it was too shallow. Is there somebody out there who can help me on this?
February 12, 2024
This book was written in 1978, but could have been written today. It concerns the energy grid and the environmental movement against the building of new power plants. We still go back and forth between energy independence, and depending on OPEC. Now we are bringing in electric vehicles into the mix.
How about this comment: "Time until we stop purchasing oil we can't afford, stop spending money we don't have, and begin developing our own untapped resources." I agree with all 3. I believe in energy independence, and a balanced budget.
Good plot and a good read.
How about this comment: "Time until we stop purchasing oil we can't afford, stop spending money we don't have, and begin developing our own untapped resources." I agree with all 3. I believe in energy independence, and a balanced budget.
Good plot and a good read.
March 9, 2015
Whenever I re-read an Arthur Hailey book, I wonder why there aren't many writers like him. And that feeling persists even after 30 years!
May 15, 2020
თითქოს სულ ერთნაირად წერს არტურ ჰეილი - კონკრეტული სფერო, ამ სფეროს შიდა სამზარეულო და იქ მოღვაწე ადამიანების პირადი და საქმიანი ცხოვრება, ტერორისტები და ბრძოლა გადარჩენისთვის... ეს ყველაფერი ერთფეროვანია, მაგრამ საოცრად საინტერესო. "გადატვირთვაშიც" ზუსტად ასეა - კითხვისას გგონია, რომ ენერგეტიკა, როგორც ბიზნესი, საზოგადოებისთვის აუცილებელი მიმართულება და პოლიტიკა ისაა, რაც ამ კონკრეტულ მომენტში ყველაზე მეტად გაინტერესებს (არადა აქამდე შეიძლება არც კი გიფიქრია ამაზე). კიდევ ერთხელ რწმუნდები, რომ ა��აც, ისევე როგორც ყველგან, ჩვეულებრივი ადამიანები მუშაობენ და არა ხალხის ძარცვაზე ორიენტირებული "უიარაღო ყაჩაღები" და რომ არტურ ჰეილი სასწაულად "მოხერხებული" მწერალია - ყოველი მორიგი წიგნით კიდევ ერთხელ გვაჩვენებს, რომ 21-ე საუკუნისთვის მიუღებ���ლმა დეტალიზაციამ და უცვლელმა სტილმა შეიძლება კი არ დაგღალოს, ისე ჩაგითრიოს, რომ ბოლო გევრდამდე სხვაზე ვერაფერზე იფიქრო.
January 7, 2022
This is the story of Ardythe and Nimrod. I'm not kidding. These are two main character names that the author actually thought would be a good idea. Nice biblical references I guess, but who ever heard of Ardythe? And did he not know and did no editor tell him of the usage of nimrod in common parlance?
The novel has a character make a rather shocking suggestion I never heard before; that the second atomic bomb the US dropped on Japan was unnecessary to winning the war as Tojo was about to surrender, but that it was done anyway just so the scientists could find out if it would work. I have never seen such a suggestion before.
One problem here is that this doesn't really become a page turner until about page 260. That's an awful lot of setup to get through.
Another problem is that the novelist had a lot of axes to grind. He seems pretty clearly against Nixon going off the gold standard, against industrial regulation and also against activists/environmentalists. He also appeared to believe, in 1979, that the world was going to run out of oil in the next year.
He must not have thought much of daytime talk shows either. His description of the problems with them is so dead on that he must have experienced at least one himself.
You can learn a lot about the power industry in this book, but the as to the rest it's pretty meh. Of this, Hotel and The Moneychangers, the last still seems his best book.
The novel has a character make a rather shocking suggestion I never heard before; that the second atomic bomb the US dropped on Japan was unnecessary to winning the war as Tojo was about to surrender, but that it was done anyway just so the scientists could find out if it would work. I have never seen such a suggestion before.
One problem here is that this doesn't really become a page turner until about page 260. That's an awful lot of setup to get through.
Another problem is that the novelist had a lot of axes to grind. He seems pretty clearly against Nixon going off the gold standard, against industrial regulation and also against activists/environmentalists. He also appeared to believe, in 1979, that the world was going to run out of oil in the next year.
He must not have thought much of daytime talk shows either. His description of the problems with them is so dead on that he must have experienced at least one himself.
You can learn a lot about the power industry in this book, but the as to the rest it's pretty meh. Of this, Hotel and The Moneychangers, the last still seems his best book.
October 10, 2024
Kind of apocalyptic!
This was not my first time reading this doomsday thriller, as I first read it back in 1997. I learned about how a coal-fired power plant operated, and how a terrorist group conducted savage attacks against a California power and light corporation and its property. This book was very exciting, as at the end, the terrorist leader loses his life when he tried to plant bombs in the pump house of a power plant. At the very end the Federal Government announced the issuing of the New Dollar, which would be backed by gold and be worth ten existing dollars. Even today, the Federal Government should replace the existing dollar with the New Dollar, because I believe that the Dollar must be backed by gold.
This was not my first time reading this doomsday thriller, as I first read it back in 1997. I learned about how a coal-fired power plant operated, and how a terrorist group conducted savage attacks against a California power and light corporation and its property. This book was very exciting, as at the end, the terrorist leader loses his life when he tried to plant bombs in the pump house of a power plant. At the very end the Federal Government announced the issuing of the New Dollar, which would be backed by gold and be worth ten existing dollars. Even today, the Federal Government should replace the existing dollar with the New Dollar, because I believe that the Dollar must be backed by gold.
August 9, 2021
Overload is the thriller about high intensity environment of the power industry. The entire story revolves around the impending power famine in the state of California.
At this time when Golden State Power & Light, the giant corporation supplying electricity to California, is planning to manage power distribution by way of pre-planned blackout, one of the huge power generating plan went out of service after a terrorist attack, causing more power shortages.
The rest of the story revolves around the struggle of the corporation against environmental activists and other anti-corporate fundamental powers. Along with this personal lives of power company employees have been touched upon.
After reading this book, one can have a pretty good idea of operations of a private power corporations and what it typically takes to get power at our homes.
At this time when Golden State Power & Light, the giant corporation supplying electricity to California, is planning to manage power distribution by way of pre-planned blackout, one of the huge power generating plan went out of service after a terrorist attack, causing more power shortages.
The rest of the story revolves around the struggle of the corporation against environmental activists and other anti-corporate fundamental powers. Along with this personal lives of power company employees have been touched upon.
After reading this book, one can have a pretty good idea of operations of a private power corporations and what it typically takes to get power at our homes.
July 22, 2020
Read in 1979. Concerning the electricity production industry in California. And this was 512 pages?
July 11, 2023
If it was anyone else other than Arthur Hailey who wrote it , it would have been termed a bore, but the way the author weaves the story with detailing is just phenomenal.
February 14, 2020
Ако ми бъде простена една малко по-свободна метафора, бих сравнил романите на Артър Хейли с коктейли-шедьоври, миксирани от барман-естет, който ти ги предлага с усмивка и една сламка за по-голямо удоволствие.
В този смисъл "Свръхнатоварване" не прави изключение, въпреки че книгата не е толкова популярна, като другите бестселъри на този велик разказвач: "Хотел", "Летище", "Колела".
Смесвайки тревогите на енергетиката на САЩ в края на 70-те години на миналия век с проблемите на средностатистическото американско семейство и желанието за живот нa една млада парализирана жена, Хейли поднася роман, който наистина си струва.
Книгата ме грабна и с чисто човешките си послания за възкресената любов между двама души, старите грешки и необходимите прошки в името на това да се спасиш душата си от свръхнатоварване. Или поне да се опиташ.
В този смисъл "Свръхнатоварване" не прави изключение, въпреки че книгата не е толкова популярна, като другите бестселъри на този велик разказвач: "Хотел", "Летище", "Колела".
Смесвайки тревогите на енергетиката на САЩ в края на 70-те години на миналия век с проблемите на средностатистическото американско семейство и желанието за живот нa една млада парализирана жена, Хейли поднася роман, който наистина си струва.
Книгата ме грабна и с чисто човешките си послания за възкресената любов между двама души, старите грешки и необходимите прошки в името на това да се спасиш душата си от свръхнатоварване. Или поне да се опиташ.
December 18, 2015
Review first published on: https://bookwormrambling.wordpress.com
I bought this book when I was twelvish/ thirteen..around that time but only got around to reading it at nineteen. And I’m really glad I did, I don’t think I would’ve fully absorbed the depth of it had I read it back when I bought it.
‘Overload’ is a fictional novel about the power industry and how electricity generation companies in the United States function. The book follows Nim Goldman, vice president of GSP&L (the main power provider for the state of California), in the midst of all the drama that comes with being in charge through a very rough power famine. The plot explores the dilemma of utility companies and the difficulties they face as they fight to satisfy the ever increasing demands for electricity. It goes to show the amount of challenges that face a corporation fighting to stay afloat through terrorism, power theft, extremely bureaucratic procedures imposed by politicians to win over the public, all while keeping the peace with environmentalists protesting their every move.
Though it is the only book I ever read for Arthur Hailey, it was enough for me to deem him a truly great writer. He managed to offer a very professional and deep insight into the power industry without taking away from the fun in his novel. What made this particular novel, and subsequently the writer, so great in my opinion is the thoroughly researched quality of the information around which he built his novel. This is a writer who made sure to do his homework before delving into the fictional world he’s creating. And nothing makes me happier than gaining some factual knowledge from a work of fiction I’m reading, it’s like an added bonus I always welcome with open arms.
One aspect of the book that was particularly interesting to me was the conflict between the environmentalist movements and those in charge of the power industry. Being someone who is interested in environmental preservation and renewable energy, this gave me a more in depth view on the -behind the scenes- politics involved in the field and the magnitude of the effort it would take for such monumental changes in our power consumption to take effect. It also shed light on the everlasting debate of environmental conservation versus industrial development. Is the price we pay for development really worth it? It’s a little sad how this book was published in 1986, yet most of the issues it tackles are still relevant today. Goes to show how little attention the problem has been handed.
The book truly was an ‘overload’ of highly interesting topics from environmental issues and the handling of electric power to the diminishing fuel resources and terrorism to infidelity and its effect on family life to the safety procedures taken to consider the special needs portion of the population. It’s a highly packed and interesting read with intermingling varied topics.
I bought this book when I was twelvish/ thirteen..around that time but only got around to reading it at nineteen. And I’m really glad I did, I don’t think I would’ve fully absorbed the depth of it had I read it back when I bought it.
‘Overload’ is a fictional novel about the power industry and how electricity generation companies in the United States function. The book follows Nim Goldman, vice president of GSP&L (the main power provider for the state of California), in the midst of all the drama that comes with being in charge through a very rough power famine. The plot explores the dilemma of utility companies and the difficulties they face as they fight to satisfy the ever increasing demands for electricity. It goes to show the amount of challenges that face a corporation fighting to stay afloat through terrorism, power theft, extremely bureaucratic procedures imposed by politicians to win over the public, all while keeping the peace with environmentalists protesting their every move.
Though it is the only book I ever read for Arthur Hailey, it was enough for me to deem him a truly great writer. He managed to offer a very professional and deep insight into the power industry without taking away from the fun in his novel. What made this particular novel, and subsequently the writer, so great in my opinion is the thoroughly researched quality of the information around which he built his novel. This is a writer who made sure to do his homework before delving into the fictional world he’s creating. And nothing makes me happier than gaining some factual knowledge from a work of fiction I’m reading, it’s like an added bonus I always welcome with open arms.
One aspect of the book that was particularly interesting to me was the conflict between the environmentalist movements and those in charge of the power industry. Being someone who is interested in environmental preservation and renewable energy, this gave me a more in depth view on the -behind the scenes- politics involved in the field and the magnitude of the effort it would take for such monumental changes in our power consumption to take effect. It also shed light on the everlasting debate of environmental conservation versus industrial development. Is the price we pay for development really worth it? It’s a little sad how this book was published in 1986, yet most of the issues it tackles are still relevant today. Goes to show how little attention the problem has been handed.
The book truly was an ‘overload’ of highly interesting topics from environmental issues and the handling of electric power to the diminishing fuel resources and terrorism to infidelity and its effect on family life to the safety procedures taken to consider the special needs portion of the population. It’s a highly packed and interesting read with intermingling varied topics.
July 20, 2013
Simply stated, Overload is a mediocre book; something to read if you are bored out of your wits. Don't expect much from the story.
The only properly formulated part of the book is where the author tries to convey the dilemma faced by the utility companies. And he has done this very well, I must say. The difficulties faced by the industry, as mentioned in the book, are 100% similar to real life. The amount of research that must have gone into this is highly appreciated.
But that is where the good stuff ends. The behaviour of the characters feels somewhat artificial. So does most of the story. There are few points of brilliance but those just get spoiled by many other events. There is not much attention to detail apart from where electricity industry is involved. The names like Power & Light for People sound seriously juvenile, making me think that this is the limit of the author's imagination.
All in all, the book feels like a textbook about the electricity industry's workings with some space being made for a ragtag story about some guy's womanizing adventures.
The only properly formulated part of the book is where the author tries to convey the dilemma faced by the utility companies. And he has done this very well, I must say. The difficulties faced by the industry, as mentioned in the book, are 100% similar to real life. The amount of research that must have gone into this is highly appreciated.
But that is where the good stuff ends. The behaviour of the characters feels somewhat artificial. So does most of the story. There are few points of brilliance but those just get spoiled by many other events. There is not much attention to detail apart from where electricity industry is involved. The names like Power & Light for People sound seriously juvenile, making me think that this is the limit of the author's imagination.
All in all, the book feels like a textbook about the electricity industry's workings with some space being made for a ragtag story about some guy's womanizing adventures.
May 6, 2018
You open an Arthur Hailey book expecting nitty gritties of the industry he is writing on. Going by this experience with his other books, Overload doesn't disappoint.
The Good: Through the Golden Power and Light organization, Hailey covers various kinds of power sources, may it be geothermal, hydroelectric, nuclear, coal, or even solar. Each of these is touched upon, if only perfunctorily, giving you a fair idea on the resources available. Since it is set in the sixties, the focus is on different energy sources as it is today.
The Bad: The villain(s). Although the fanaticism is portrayed well, the reason behind it remains obscure.
The Ugly: What's with lead characters and their unparalleled sexual prowess that makes women jump upon them? In this book, limits are crossed when the women involve a widow of one day, a quadriplegic, a friend's wife and her sister, or a journalist the primary character spends the whole book hating. Several pages could've been cut off had this part been excluded, not to mention that the book could've earned another star.
The Good: Through the Golden Power and Light organization, Hailey covers various kinds of power sources, may it be geothermal, hydroelectric, nuclear, coal, or even solar. Each of these is touched upon, if only perfunctorily, giving you a fair idea on the resources available. Since it is set in the sixties, the focus is on different energy sources as it is today.
The Bad: The villain(s). Although the fanaticism is portrayed well, the reason behind it remains obscure.
The Ugly: What's with lead characters and their unparalleled sexual prowess that makes women jump upon them? In this book, limits are crossed when the women involve a widow of one day, a quadriplegic, a friend's wife and her sister, or a journalist the primary character spends the whole book hating. Several pages could've been cut off had this part been excluded, not to mention that the book could've earned another star.
February 13, 2016
Whilst clearing bookshelves recently, I thought I'd re-read this book, which I remember enjoying reading in my younger years. After all, the subject of energy supply is once again a current hot topic; as economic availability of oil and gas reserves decreases, and the world human population continues to increase unsustainably.
Alas, I gave up at page 74. The plot was far too predictable and plain corny; and no, I didn't remember it from reading the book first time around. I just got to the point where I couldn't mentally take another well hackneyed idea; another well-worn Americanism.
My copy, together with a whole heap more of Arthur Hailey's other books will be going out to a charity shop tomorrow.
Alas, I gave up at page 74. The plot was far too predictable and plain corny; and no, I didn't remember it from reading the book first time around. I just got to the point where I couldn't mentally take another well hackneyed idea; another well-worn Americanism.
My copy, together with a whole heap more of Arthur Hailey's other books will be going out to a charity shop tomorrow.
March 13, 2015
Must read for Power Engineers....Nice thriller.
May 5, 2016
Arthur Hailey have a way of making a boring topic fun to read,Initially,the first few pages were some how boring to me but when the action start it was hard to put down .
November 18, 2025
Thanks to the wonderful Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.
I am so excited that Brilliance Audio has breathed new life into Arthur Hailey"'s classic and timeless body of work by recording his books in audio format.
🎧 ⚡ Arthur Hailey’s Overload is a quintessential example of his talent for weaving human drama into the machinery of modern institutions. Here, the focus is on the power industry—a world of turbines, transmission lines, and the fragile balance between supply and demand. Hailey dramatizes the tension between technological progress and human fallibility, showing how a single miscalculation or ethical lapse can ripple outward into catastrophe.
The novel’s structure is classic Hailey: multiple intersecting storylines, each tied to the central theme of energy and responsibility. Corporate politics, environmental concerns, and personal ambition collide, creating a narrative that is technical yet deeply human.
🎙️ B.J. Harrison’s performance elevates the audiobook. His voice carries a steady authority that matches the novel’s subject matter, while injecting nuance into the characters. Executives sound polished and commanding, engineers carry a pragmatic edge, and everyday citizens feel grounded and relatable. Harrison avoids melodrama, instead leaning into clarity and pacing—qualities that suit Hailey’s detail-heavy prose.
What stands out most is Harrison’s ability to sustain tension. In scenes where the grid teeters on collapse, his measured delivery amplifies the suspense without resorting to theatrics. It’s a narration that respects the complexity of the text while keeping listeners engaged.
🔍 Themes in this story include
- Institutional fragility: Hailey reminds us that modern life depends on systems that are powerful and precarious.
- Ethical dilemmas: The novel probes questions of responsibility—who bears the burden when profit, politics, and public safety collide?
- Human scale: Despite the technical backdrop, Hailey never loses sight of the individuals caught in the machinery.
🎧 Overload is not just a thriller about electricity—it’s a meditation on the vulnerabilities of modern society. The audiobook format, with Harrison’s disciplined narration, makes the technical passages more accessible and the human drama more immediate. For listeners who enjoy institution-centered dramas with ethical weight, this audiobook delivers both intellectual stimulation and narrative drive.
I am so excited that Brilliance Audio has breathed new life into Arthur Hailey"'s classic and timeless body of work by recording his books in audio format.
🎧 ⚡ Arthur Hailey’s Overload is a quintessential example of his talent for weaving human drama into the machinery of modern institutions. Here, the focus is on the power industry—a world of turbines, transmission lines, and the fragile balance between supply and demand. Hailey dramatizes the tension between technological progress and human fallibility, showing how a single miscalculation or ethical lapse can ripple outward into catastrophe.
The novel’s structure is classic Hailey: multiple intersecting storylines, each tied to the central theme of energy and responsibility. Corporate politics, environmental concerns, and personal ambition collide, creating a narrative that is technical yet deeply human.
🎙️ B.J. Harrison’s performance elevates the audiobook. His voice carries a steady authority that matches the novel’s subject matter, while injecting nuance into the characters. Executives sound polished and commanding, engineers carry a pragmatic edge, and everyday citizens feel grounded and relatable. Harrison avoids melodrama, instead leaning into clarity and pacing—qualities that suit Hailey’s detail-heavy prose.
What stands out most is Harrison’s ability to sustain tension. In scenes where the grid teeters on collapse, his measured delivery amplifies the suspense without resorting to theatrics. It’s a narration that respects the complexity of the text while keeping listeners engaged.
🔍 Themes in this story include
- Institutional fragility: Hailey reminds us that modern life depends on systems that are powerful and precarious.
- Ethical dilemmas: The novel probes questions of responsibility—who bears the burden when profit, politics, and public safety collide?
- Human scale: Despite the technical backdrop, Hailey never loses sight of the individuals caught in the machinery.
🎧 Overload is not just a thriller about electricity—it’s a meditation on the vulnerabilities of modern society. The audiobook format, with Harrison’s disciplined narration, makes the technical passages more accessible and the human drama more immediate. For listeners who enjoy institution-centered dramas with ethical weight, this audiobook delivers both intellectual stimulation and narrative drive.
September 21, 2019
Overload (Mass Market Paperback) by Arthur Hailey- Novel 1979- Importance of this novel is that Electricity suppy to people by Electricity Supply companies. Modern rural and urban life is primarily based on electricity which is produced by electromechanical generators and transmitted by lines. Power production plants are coal based, flowing water and wind. The story is about Golden State Power and Light Public Service Company. In US based novels, the primary issue is management of race relations, terrorism, business ethics, journalism and use of new sources of generation of electricity to cover the increased use of electricity and supply. This company is responsible for supply of electric power for 2/3 rd of the city of California. Electricity production is oil based. There is a terrorist attack on an oil burner based power plant. An enquiry is conducted by Chairman Mr Eric Humphery who leaves further decision on Nim Goldman Vice President and Ray Paulson, Head of Security. They come across iron lung users which function on electircity and continuous supply of electricity is compulsory for their life. They also come across institutions which are involved in power theft and take action. A think group for 3 persons is appointed to trace the culprits. As the noose of enquiry is closed and the perpetrators of terror attack are discovered. The group sends letter bombs to Golden Power and Light Company in which the employees are hurt and killed. Second problem is environmental pollution- the press raises this issue and the company tries Coal based production. Accidents happen in power plants which have been utlised to develop the tight story. Mode of travel of Vice President by helicopter is shown as waste of public money. Tight security by the team protects the company from more terror attacks. Think tank group protects and arrests the terrorists but for once electricity supply is broken and some iron lung user die . Nim has relations with other women than his wife. He discoers that she is suffering from cancer, he shows his affection for her and asks for pardon. The Book is classic and is a good read for all.
February 21, 2020
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
Every time I pick up an Arthur Hailey book I’m amazed how, despite having written it decades ago, he was able to foresee a future that eventually happened, keeping his writing relevant even today.
Amidst the summer heat wave, California's Golden State Power & Light company is on overload. An emergency brownout is already in effect when their newest and largest generator explodes, killing four people. With widespread loss of power to a hungry state, a fringe group takes responsibility. While GSP&L is already fighting bureaucrats to build more power plants to supplement increasing demands, they realise they are up against a vicious enemy. But for vice president Nim Goldman and his family; his adversary, investigative reporter Nancy Molineaux; detective Harry London; and beautiful quadriplegic Karen Sloan, whose every breath depends on electric power, the terror is only beginning.
In Overload, Hailey describes how demand and supply is managed at a power company. At one end is tracking power theft which results in heavy losses, while at the other is planning contingencies for hospitals and patients in private medical care. More important, though, is the never-ending debate of energy conservation vs. industrial development. Of course, because he writes thrillers, there is the philandering protagonist, the sharp-sighted detective, and the tenacious reporter, who bring the complexities of the plot to the fore.
As much as I enjoy reading Hailey's novels, I did have an issue with the protagonist's opportunistic character and the limits he crosses in his relationships with women. Also, while this was written 40 years ago, and climate change was not the conversation it should have been, I would have preferred if his underlying debate on energy utilisation vs. conservation would have emphatically argued for the latter. Nevertheless, I'd still recommend it for the high-tech, high-tension world of energy consumption.
Every time I pick up an Arthur Hailey book I’m amazed how, despite having written it decades ago, he was able to foresee a future that eventually happened, keeping his writing relevant even today.
Amidst the summer heat wave, California's Golden State Power & Light company is on overload. An emergency brownout is already in effect when their newest and largest generator explodes, killing four people. With widespread loss of power to a hungry state, a fringe group takes responsibility. While GSP&L is already fighting bureaucrats to build more power plants to supplement increasing demands, they realise they are up against a vicious enemy. But for vice president Nim Goldman and his family; his adversary, investigative reporter Nancy Molineaux; detective Harry London; and beautiful quadriplegic Karen Sloan, whose every breath depends on electric power, the terror is only beginning.
In Overload, Hailey describes how demand and supply is managed at a power company. At one end is tracking power theft which results in heavy losses, while at the other is planning contingencies for hospitals and patients in private medical care. More important, though, is the never-ending debate of energy conservation vs. industrial development. Of course, because he writes thrillers, there is the philandering protagonist, the sharp-sighted detective, and the tenacious reporter, who bring the complexities of the plot to the fore.
As much as I enjoy reading Hailey's novels, I did have an issue with the protagonist's opportunistic character and the limits he crosses in his relationships with women. Also, while this was written 40 years ago, and climate change was not the conversation it should have been, I would have preferred if his underlying debate on energy utilisation vs. conservation would have emphatically argued for the latter. Nevertheless, I'd still recommend it for the high-tech, high-tension world of energy consumption.
Read
April 23, 2024Kind of an odd choice for my first Goodreads review, but my friend has also been reading this book, and this will be a good way to remember my thoughts for when she's done her copy.
I've previously read Arthur Hailey's Airport, and I enjoyed it both times; it's a well written melodrama, and I liked all the technical information. Overload, on the other hand, felt like a parody of this type of "melodrama in a workplace" genre; within the first ten pages, 2 kindly employees are cooked instantly ("Like steamed vegetables" Hailey writes), at one point someone's penis gets blown off, there are numerous points where Hailey is stacking the deck in his favour concerning issues he feels strongly about, and the plot meanders to a large degree. Easily the most hilarious aspect is the amount of sex main character Nim Goldman has; I know this genre of book usually has some smut in it, but characters are literally throwing themselves at Nim constantly, and numerous characters are constantly going "Nim you're a real sex god huh?" it felt like a self-insert fantasy for the author in a very noticable way. One character is dies in a very mean-spirited way within the last 10 pages of the book. The book ends with the US Treasuring creating a new currency, which is a wild thing to drop at the end of your story.
Hailey has a certain way with words, his prose is readable and usually compelling, but the plot here feels like a grab bag. I think what made Airport work better for me is that it takes place over a single night, meaning the story stays more centered; Overload takes place over almost a year, and Hailey gets carried away with that freedom. I admire his technical knowledge here, there is lots of interesting info about power companies in the 70's, so the book delivers on that front.
I've previously read Arthur Hailey's Airport, and I enjoyed it both times; it's a well written melodrama, and I liked all the technical information. Overload, on the other hand, felt like a parody of this type of "melodrama in a workplace" genre; within the first ten pages, 2 kindly employees are cooked instantly ("Like steamed vegetables" Hailey writes), at one point someone's penis gets blown off, there are numerous points where Hailey is stacking the deck in his favour concerning issues he feels strongly about, and the plot meanders to a large degree. Easily the most hilarious aspect is the amount of sex main character Nim Goldman has; I know this genre of book usually has some smut in it, but characters are literally throwing themselves at Nim constantly, and numerous characters are constantly going "Nim you're a real sex god huh?" it felt like a self-insert fantasy for the author in a very noticable way. One character is dies in a very mean-spirited way within the last 10 pages of the book. The book ends with the US Treasuring creating a new currency, which is a wild thing to drop at the end of your story.
Hailey has a certain way with words, his prose is readable and usually compelling, but the plot here feels like a grab bag. I think what made Airport work better for me is that it takes place over a single night, meaning the story stays more centered; Overload takes place over almost a year, and Hailey gets carried away with that freedom. I admire his technical knowledge here, there is lots of interesting info about power companies in the 70's, so the book delivers on that front.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2023
Le doy dos estrellas y no sólo una porque está bien escrito -aunque penosamente traducido al español-. Pero me ha parecido una historia de mal gusto en la que Nim, un hombre sin respeto alguno por su esposa enferma, se cepilla a todas las mujeres que se encuentra -incluida una cuadripléjica y dos hermanas en una misma noche- al tiempo que sigue una cruzada contra el medio ambiente para mantener el espíritu derrochador de su tiempo. Hay escenas excesivamente violentas, innecesariamente violentas, mutilaciones sorprendentes y una tolerancia insólita por parte de cierto marido que permite en su casa que su mujer se acueste con Nim para quedar embarazada...
Los villanos son sólo villanos, no tienen ni siquiera una mínima característica positiva, además, es imposible preocuparse por el destino de prácticamente ninguno de los personajes principales.
La muerte de Karen al final del libro fue dolorosa y prescindí de leer su descripción detallada. La posterior partida de Nim con la periodista para acostarse con ella justo después de que la hermana de Karen se le insinuara con el cadáver aún en la habitación contigua hace que el poco gusto que me parecía que tenía esta novela se haya quedado en absolutamente cero.
Los villanos son sólo villanos, no tienen ni siquiera una mínima característica positiva, además, es imposible preocuparse por el destino de prácticamente ninguno de los personajes principales.
La muerte de Karen al final del libro fue dolorosa y prescindí de leer su descripción detallada. La posterior partida de Nim con la periodista para acostarse con ella justo después de que la hermana de Karen se le insinuara con el cadáver aún en la habitación contigua hace que el poco gusto que me parecía que tenía esta novela se haya quedado en absolutamente cero.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2024
Don't Worry. NO SPOILERS
My first arthur Hailey novel. I read the backcover. Decide it's nothing exciting. Still I choose to read. The first chapter felt boring. But as I continued, the chapters became interesting and the main conflict of the novel was taking it's shape.
The public utility company GSP&L warns the public of a inevitable power crunch if New energy projects aren't launched. But the coal mines and fossil fuel plants come at a cost to the environment. The GSP&L faces a snail bureaucracy, opposition from environmentalists and worse of all:- bombings from a radical communist group calling itself "friends of freedom".
The author invites us into the workings of power industry. Hailey's deep research is visible in the technical details he has put and how he drives the plot from it while keeping the readers hooked. Before this, I didn't believe that a novel based on a power supplying company could be so interesting. Not many authors would give that idea a second thought.
Reading the backcover might not excite many like me to pick this book but personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Obviously, this is not a thriller novel.
PS- eager to read arthur hailey's hotel novel.
My first arthur Hailey novel. I read the backcover. Decide it's nothing exciting. Still I choose to read. The first chapter felt boring. But as I continued, the chapters became interesting and the main conflict of the novel was taking it's shape.
The public utility company GSP&L warns the public of a inevitable power crunch if New energy projects aren't launched. But the coal mines and fossil fuel plants come at a cost to the environment. The GSP&L faces a snail bureaucracy, opposition from environmentalists and worse of all:- bombings from a radical communist group calling itself "friends of freedom".
The author invites us into the workings of power industry. Hailey's deep research is visible in the technical details he has put and how he drives the plot from it while keeping the readers hooked. Before this, I didn't believe that a novel based on a power supplying company could be so interesting. Not many authors would give that idea a second thought.
Reading the backcover might not excite many like me to pick this book but personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Obviously, this is not a thriller novel.
PS- eager to read arthur hailey's hotel novel.
January 3, 2022
Another great, well-researched story from Arthur Hailey, this time about electricity and the life of an electricity provider company. Who could guess, there are lots of issues to deal with when trying to stay ahead of energy consumption by the public: licenses necessary to build new power plants, endless review processes, environment considerations, bad managements, energy theft, board of directors, even terrorists/revolutionaries. Despite the company being a monopolist in California, it still has these problems and there is a delicate balance of using public money at the huge utility company. There are also important, opposing points to building new plants in the book: we, as consumers, get used to using more and more electricity all the time, most of which is likely unnecessary and could be conserved, but of course (almost) nobody thinks of that when everything is fine; well, what if there is a crisis?!
August 9, 2022
Another Haley Masterpiece
This a tale of what might well happen. Our dependence on electricity and foreign oil is a big part of the plot. The environmentalists and crackpots do everything they can to keep the electric company from ever building new plants to use coal, geothermal energy or water as a source to create power. The majority of electrical production depends on oil.
This book is a story what could happen if it all begins to break down. It’s very eye opening.
Haley does his usual excellent job of conveying well researched information through characters that we see every day. Nim Goldman, the main character is a top executive with GCP&L. He is a very flawed man and evidently a real babe magnet, but he knows what should happen, speaks out, but is constantly frustrated. There is a rabble rouser that stirs up trouble more to pad his own pockets than anything, a more tame conservation group, a beautiful quadriplegic, energy theft, murderous sabotage… this book pretty much has it all.
This a tale of what might well happen. Our dependence on electricity and foreign oil is a big part of the plot. The environmentalists and crackpots do everything they can to keep the electric company from ever building new plants to use coal, geothermal energy or water as a source to create power. The majority of electrical production depends on oil.
This book is a story what could happen if it all begins to break down. It’s very eye opening.
Haley does his usual excellent job of conveying well researched information through characters that we see every day. Nim Goldman, the main character is a top executive with GCP&L. He is a very flawed man and evidently a real babe magnet, but he knows what should happen, speaks out, but is constantly frustrated. There is a rabble rouser that stirs up trouble more to pad his own pockets than anything, a more tame conservation group, a beautiful quadriplegic, energy theft, murderous sabotage… this book pretty much has it all.
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