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The Augmented Man
Nicholas Trailer is the last of The Augmented Men.
The last of nine severely abused and traumatized children biogenetically engineered into super soldiers beyond anything even dreamt about through history. These children, modified into monsters and each capable of executing the most horrifying deeds without feeling remorse or regret, are loosed upon the enemy to help the US win a war rampaging far longer than anyone thought possible.
The war ended with Nick's team sacrificed to the enemy as part of the truce. His team tortured and killed in front of him, Nick alone escaped, returned home, and hid deep in the northern Maine forests.
Until someone said, "I love you."
But Nick's never been loved, doesn't know if he can even feel love, and for the first time since Augmentation is terrified the monster he is might destroy the woman who wants to help him love.
Desperate for a solution, Nick seeks out his handlers. But his handlers believed him dead, gone, a bad memory and no longer their concern.
Nick, surfaced, is quickly recognized as a threat to the government's clandestine Augmentation Program, and they give Nick's creator, Major James Donaldson, explicit orders - kill it before it kills again.
Find out what happens when the ultimate weapon falls in love.
Buy The Augmented Man now in paperback or Kindle.
The last of nine severely abused and traumatized children biogenetically engineered into super soldiers beyond anything even dreamt about through history. These children, modified into monsters and each capable of executing the most horrifying deeds without feeling remorse or regret, are loosed upon the enemy to help the US win a war rampaging far longer than anyone thought possible.
The war ended with Nick's team sacrificed to the enemy as part of the truce. His team tortured and killed in front of him, Nick alone escaped, returned home, and hid deep in the northern Maine forests.
Until someone said, "I love you."
But Nick's never been loved, doesn't know if he can even feel love, and for the first time since Augmentation is terrified the monster he is might destroy the woman who wants to help him love.
Desperate for a solution, Nick seeks out his handlers. But his handlers believed him dead, gone, a bad memory and no longer their concern.
Nick, surfaced, is quickly recognized as a threat to the government's clandestine Augmentation Program, and they give Nick's creator, Major James Donaldson, explicit orders - kill it before it kills again.
Find out what happens when the ultimate weapon falls in love.
Buy The Augmented Man now in paperback or Kindle.
453 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2023
13 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Carrabis
57 books119 followersJoseph Carrabis is a master storyteller with a sharp sense of humor and linguistic expertise. Hailing from New Hampshire, USA, his passion for writing began at the tender age of seven while washing dishes with his older sister, Sandra. She’d read ‘Mission to the Heart Stars’ for a book report and shared her fascination and excitement over the story. Joseph, a plate in one hand and a dish towel in the other decided, “I want to give that to people.” With a career deeply embedded in evolving technologies, Joseph served as Chief Research Officer, Chief Neuroscience Officer, and Senior Research Fellow at several institutions and agencies while earning numerous awards for his journalism and trade technical writing.
Joseph refers to himself as boring - something loudly debunked by his readers and peers - and weaves wildly imaginative stories that dance on the boundary of the known and unknown sciences where natural, preternatural and supernatural intersect. Fans’ comments regularly mention Carrabis’ ability to bring together advanced mathematics, quantum physics, cybernetics, and neuroscience with believable multi-dimensional characters and spellbinding future technology. Joseph has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, recommended for a Nebula Award, and received an honorable mention in ‘Writers of the Future’.
Joseph refers to himself as boring - something loudly debunked by his readers and peers - and weaves wildly imaginative stories that dance on the boundary of the known and unknown sciences where natural, preternatural and supernatural intersect. Fans’ comments regularly mention Carrabis’ ability to bring together advanced mathematics, quantum physics, cybernetics, and neuroscience with believable multi-dimensional characters and spellbinding future technology. Joseph has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, recommended for a Nebula Award, and received an honorable mention in ‘Writers of the Future’.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 22, 2024
The Augmented Man follows a long tradition of supermen trained by the military or black ops to accomplish tasks. But, the Augmented Man takes it a few steps further where the men are somewhere between Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator than and Matt Damon in Jason Bourne. They are Augmented in their senses and damn near indestructible. But, to get them there where they can fulfill their missions - sometimes morally difficult missions - they had to start with psychologically dented beings who had survived childhoods of abuse and that is the word- survived. Do you bring back a rogue Augmented to the fold or find some way to destroy him? This book is half psych ops study and half black ops action. As such, it occupies new terrain, often distant terrain difficult to traverse.
June 11, 2019
Joseph Carrabis writes a masterful tale of how greed and power can corrupt the better judgement of a man. Although this story is set in the future, it actually seems plausible that the sorts of physiological and psychological modifications discussed and inflicted on some of the characters could and have occurred in the name of military dominance. It was fascinating to me how Carrabis compared the capability of Navy Seals as an example against the next gen efforts as well as the results.
Not only did the story grab my attention from the first scene opening in the bar, but it enthralled me until the very end. After this opening, “Trailer closed his eyes and sat at the end of the bar where the cigarette-burned, cheap black Formica countertop met the wall. He eased himself onto the last stool, tucking into the corner in the dim light, a spider hiding out of sight at the edge of its web.” I felt drawn to Nick Trailer from the outset that expanded into compassion for the life he was forced to live. He is a warrior who struggles to find his way in a world against him from the start. Nick’s relationship with Major Donaldson is one which I suspect many leaders have with their men. I liked both of these characters for very different reasons because they were so well developed. Learning all the whys and wherefores of Trailer’s life from both men’s perspective had me turning the pages until the surprising end.
All of the scenes set the perfect stage for a movie playing in my mind as I raced through the story. The descriptions were vivid and certainly exacting for gruesome military combat actions, yet realistic and plausible. Covert squads, spies, behind closed doors actions, and intrigue create great action stories. Carrabis has no shortage of action or intrigue as he lifts the curtain to reveal actions sanctioned by government leaders in a crass offhanded manner like changing shoes after stepping into a few inches of mud. I would certainly recommend this story to any reader who likes to consider the possible while reading a complex story with a heavy lacing of conspiracy, which I do hope is purely fiction, yet … what do I know about what the military does behind closed doors at the direction of powerful leaders.
Trust me you want to read this one.
Not only did the story grab my attention from the first scene opening in the bar, but it enthralled me until the very end. After this opening, “Trailer closed his eyes and sat at the end of the bar where the cigarette-burned, cheap black Formica countertop met the wall. He eased himself onto the last stool, tucking into the corner in the dim light, a spider hiding out of sight at the edge of its web.” I felt drawn to Nick Trailer from the outset that expanded into compassion for the life he was forced to live. He is a warrior who struggles to find his way in a world against him from the start. Nick’s relationship with Major Donaldson is one which I suspect many leaders have with their men. I liked both of these characters for very different reasons because they were so well developed. Learning all the whys and wherefores of Trailer’s life from both men’s perspective had me turning the pages until the surprising end.
All of the scenes set the perfect stage for a movie playing in my mind as I raced through the story. The descriptions were vivid and certainly exacting for gruesome military combat actions, yet realistic and plausible. Covert squads, spies, behind closed doors actions, and intrigue create great action stories. Carrabis has no shortage of action or intrigue as he lifts the curtain to reveal actions sanctioned by government leaders in a crass offhanded manner like changing shoes after stepping into a few inches of mud. I would certainly recommend this story to any reader who likes to consider the possible while reading a complex story with a heavy lacing of conspiracy, which I do hope is purely fiction, yet … what do I know about what the military does behind closed doors at the direction of powerful leaders.
Trust me you want to read this one.
July 25, 2019
Joseph Carrabis's The Augmented Man begins with a bang when physically enhanced ex-soldier Nick Trailer wipes out an entire New England bar. What emerges is a futuristic noir-ish thriller as Trailer's former handler, Jim Donaldson, attempts to corral his rogue cadet. The early world-building is very strong, with details about a past drug war and a secret project to genetically augment and psychologically manipulate ideals soldiers sprinkled throughout the first chapters. And the tension of the Trailer-Donaldson collision pulls the story along nicely.
However, the plot comes to a halt with a 100+ page psychoanalysis session in the middle of the book. In a novel that is marketed and begins as a military sci-fi thriller, this slowdown is jarring. While the information revealed in this section is useful for understanding Trailer and Donaldson's backgrounds, the delivery comes off as somewhat heavy-handed. Carrabis makes an effort to reveal a more few details about the war that helped shape Trailer's psychology, but this intriguing backstory is outweighed by plodding psychotherapeutic exchanges. A similar critique applies to the frequent use of imagery—some are successful, but at least half are not and seem forced, with a few bewildering mixed metaphors thrown in.
Fortunately, the final third of the book is fast-paced and thoroughly engrossing. I was so caught up in the last few pages that I missed my bus stop. There is also some payoff from the middle section, as the traits revealed in that part of the story make Donaldson, Trailer and his wife, Karen, characters I eagerly rooted for. Overall, it's clear that Carrabis is a smart and talented writer, and when he steps back and allows his characters, plot and attention to detail to take over, The Augmented Man really shines.
However, the plot comes to a halt with a 100+ page psychoanalysis session in the middle of the book. In a novel that is marketed and begins as a military sci-fi thriller, this slowdown is jarring. While the information revealed in this section is useful for understanding Trailer and Donaldson's backgrounds, the delivery comes off as somewhat heavy-handed. Carrabis makes an effort to reveal a more few details about the war that helped shape Trailer's psychology, but this intriguing backstory is outweighed by plodding psychotherapeutic exchanges. A similar critique applies to the frequent use of imagery—some are successful, but at least half are not and seem forced, with a few bewildering mixed metaphors thrown in.
Fortunately, the final third of the book is fast-paced and thoroughly engrossing. I was so caught up in the last few pages that I missed my bus stop. There is also some payoff from the middle section, as the traits revealed in that part of the story make Donaldson, Trailer and his wife, Karen, characters I eagerly rooted for. Overall, it's clear that Carrabis is a smart and talented writer, and when he steps back and allows his characters, plot and attention to detail to take over, The Augmented Man really shines.
January 18, 2023
While I may not like the underlying world view of this book, I found myself caught up in the swift, engaging story telling of Joseph Carrabis, whose skill in creating this grim scenario is as sharp as the teeth of his monster-men.
Be aware, graphic violence pervades ‘’The Augmented Man.'' Occasional passages almost smack of a comic book, and it is not clear whether these were intentionally designed to be implausible or tongue in cheek.
If you aren’t put off by an abundance of bloodletting and seek a harrowing, highly original, breakneck ride on the dark side of a not-impossible future, down a tumbler of whiskey and brace yourself for ‘’The Augmented Man.''
Maybe follow it up with a chaser of ‘’The Prophet’’ or ‘’Watership Down.''
March 29, 2022
Dazzling and mind-bending; brutal and uplifting. Carrabis has an incisive style studded with military and indigenous cultural concepts way beyond mainstream experience. If you want to understand a version of PTSD whether from war or childhood trauma, this is a journey you should consider. It's not for delicate sensibilities, although there is no violence without purpose.
I kept wanting to have a direct line to the author's life to ask, "How do you know that?"
It was hard sometimes, reading with empathy and identifying with the characters. In the end, I felt hopeful and eager for the next book.
I kept wanting to have a direct line to the author's life to ask, "How do you know that?"
It was hard sometimes, reading with empathy and identifying with the characters. In the end, I felt hopeful and eager for the next book.
October 21, 2019
The Augmented Man by Joseph Carrabis is an engaging thriller that grabs you from the first page and pulls you through this book with each line that you read. I enjoy thriller novels and this author does a fantastic job mixing together thriller, medical, and military into this story. This story will honestly get to you on an emotional level as well as you discover the things that the characters went through and as they struggle to deal with that what has happened with the changes they experienced.
The Augmented Man is the first book that I have read Joseph Carrabis and a book that I found myself quickly engrossed in. The author introduces me to Trailer first; he’s an augmented man, and the last one still alive. At first, he seems like just an average guy, but something triggers him and then all hell breaks loose. Now, if you’re worried that you’re going to experience a scene of catastrophic gore…rest assured in this…the author spares you what happens. I’ll admit that I was a bit disappointed, but the author comes back to fill in what happened to an extent. Trailer is truly a fascinating character. Dealing with him almost like dealing with more than one Trailer. He’s hurting, but then a darker side of him wants to hurt others in turn. He surfaced for a reason, but it’s almost like he himself is confused about what it is that he truly wants.
The author breaks this story down into three parts. This makes this story very easy to follow along with what is happening. When Trailer surfaces, which is the beginning of the story, the author goes back and forth in time. Each time there is a shift the author does an excellent job marking the change so that you can follow along with ease. When Trailer feels secure he meets up with Donaldson, the man he wanted to find him, and they go “Through” a period of time together as Donaldson tries to reach and get through to Trailer. This section is truly fascinating as Trailer struggles with what he has become. I will warn readers of this…there are some truly shocking moments in this part. Shocking, but fascinating nonetheless. The last section is “Out” and that’s when things begin to really get going. Choices must be made concerning Trailer and Donaldson has to make sure that he is more than able to carry them out.
The only thing that I would have to say that I don’t like about this book is some of the jargon the author uses. There is a lot of anatomies and physiological word usage in this book and it’s not something that the average person will know, so I feel that some who choose to read this book will need to have their dictionaries ready. I understood most of it because I took an anatomy class in high school, but I will admit that some I need to check out myself to fully understand what was written. But honestly, that is the only drawback with this story.
At the end of the day, I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. The medical jargon, while I wasn’t familiar with all of the terminology does nothing to truly detract from this story. If anything it makes a touch educational. The author lured me into this book with the fast-hitting beginning and kept me riveted all the way to the end with emotional moments and surprise twists. If you enjoy military thrillers with a well-balanced amount of detail, and engaging characters then this is a good book to pick up.
The Augmented Man is the first book that I have read Joseph Carrabis and a book that I found myself quickly engrossed in. The author introduces me to Trailer first; he’s an augmented man, and the last one still alive. At first, he seems like just an average guy, but something triggers him and then all hell breaks loose. Now, if you’re worried that you’re going to experience a scene of catastrophic gore…rest assured in this…the author spares you what happens. I’ll admit that I was a bit disappointed, but the author comes back to fill in what happened to an extent. Trailer is truly a fascinating character. Dealing with him almost like dealing with more than one Trailer. He’s hurting, but then a darker side of him wants to hurt others in turn. He surfaced for a reason, but it’s almost like he himself is confused about what it is that he truly wants.
The author breaks this story down into three parts. This makes this story very easy to follow along with what is happening. When Trailer surfaces, which is the beginning of the story, the author goes back and forth in time. Each time there is a shift the author does an excellent job marking the change so that you can follow along with ease. When Trailer feels secure he meets up with Donaldson, the man he wanted to find him, and they go “Through” a period of time together as Donaldson tries to reach and get through to Trailer. This section is truly fascinating as Trailer struggles with what he has become. I will warn readers of this…there are some truly shocking moments in this part. Shocking, but fascinating nonetheless. The last section is “Out” and that’s when things begin to really get going. Choices must be made concerning Trailer and Donaldson has to make sure that he is more than able to carry them out.
The only thing that I would have to say that I don’t like about this book is some of the jargon the author uses. There is a lot of anatomies and physiological word usage in this book and it’s not something that the average person will know, so I feel that some who choose to read this book will need to have their dictionaries ready. I understood most of it because I took an anatomy class in high school, but I will admit that some I need to check out myself to fully understand what was written. But honestly, that is the only drawback with this story.
At the end of the day, I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. The medical jargon, while I wasn’t familiar with all of the terminology does nothing to truly detract from this story. If anything it makes a touch educational. The author lured me into this book with the fast-hitting beginning and kept me riveted all the way to the end with emotional moments and surprise twists. If you enjoy military thrillers with a well-balanced amount of detail, and engaging characters then this is a good book to pick up.
October 22, 2019
This has a good amount of action and tension and mostly held my attention. Military sci-fi is not my fave genre but this was good. Nice character creation and occasional tug on emotions. Recommended for sci-fi thriller fans.
I really appreciate the NetGalley copy for review!!
I really appreciate the NetGalley copy for review!!
September 19, 2019
In the same vein as Orson Scott Card’s, Ender’s Game - Joseph Carrabis’s newest novel, The
Augmented Man thrusts the reader into an unknown but realistic world of the future where
governments create devastating war weapons of their choosing. In this fast paced thriller those
weapons are nothing more than abused children who grow up in a society which has no room
for them until Captain James Donaldson finds a useful purpose for these cast offs. These poor
wretches who have never felt the love of another human being and have no hope at a normal
life eventually learn of their future. A future so terrifying and painful all they can do is suffer
through it at the hands of Donaldson. What he creates for them is a living hell. His plan was to
genetically modify the children and as they mature becoming the very tools of destruction
which are nothing less than terrifying. After their usefulness is complete there is another plan
of Donaldson’s which goes horribly wrong. Instead of termination for all of these
manufactured miscreants as planned, a miscalculation arises leaving Donaldson fighting for
his life as well as humankind. His own perverted experiment has come back to haunt him.
This exciting story will make the reader truly question if such things as The Augmented Man
could or does exist under the blackness of government secrecy. At the conclusion of the
novel, the reader can only pray it is strictly fiction and not a harbinger of things to come in the
near future.
Reviewer: John R. Beyer, award winning author of fictional short stories and novels.
Augmented Man thrusts the reader into an unknown but realistic world of the future where
governments create devastating war weapons of their choosing. In this fast paced thriller those
weapons are nothing more than abused children who grow up in a society which has no room
for them until Captain James Donaldson finds a useful purpose for these cast offs. These poor
wretches who have never felt the love of another human being and have no hope at a normal
life eventually learn of their future. A future so terrifying and painful all they can do is suffer
through it at the hands of Donaldson. What he creates for them is a living hell. His plan was to
genetically modify the children and as they mature becoming the very tools of destruction
which are nothing less than terrifying. After their usefulness is complete there is another plan
of Donaldson’s which goes horribly wrong. Instead of termination for all of these
manufactured miscreants as planned, a miscalculation arises leaving Donaldson fighting for
his life as well as humankind. His own perverted experiment has come back to haunt him.
This exciting story will make the reader truly question if such things as The Augmented Man
could or does exist under the blackness of government secrecy. At the conclusion of the
novel, the reader can only pray it is strictly fiction and not a harbinger of things to come in the
near future.
Reviewer: John R. Beyer, award winning author of fictional short stories and novels.
September 19, 2019
Military sci-fi thrillers are usually not my go-to genre when I look for a book, but I was excited to pick up The Augmented Man. This story immediately thrust me into a Dues Ex like world with Nick Trailer, the ex-soldier, being the primary protagonist. His struggles were easily to relate with and, honestly, I found myself hoping to see his happy ending by the end of the novel. Admittedly, the middle of the book had a few slow spots, but being a student of psychoanalysis, I found it intriguing. Joseph Carrabis did an excellent job in piecing together this masterpiece. Now when do I get to see the movie?
June 10, 2019
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of The Augmented Man by Joseph Carrabis and highly recommend you add this new release to your late summer plans. Nicholas Trailer is an augmented man, developed to be a perfect war machine by a secret government group. But what's next for someone trained to do something so well that is such anathema to regular society? How can he just live his life? The book is a sci-fi/military novel but it is so much more - it's a classic tale of monsters and men where identifying the monster isn't so easy. It has rich characters along with plenty of intense action. An excellent read that will make you think, but also entertain the heck out of you. What more could you ask?
July 23, 2019
This military story strongly reminded me of the "Universal Soldier" films at times, with its focus on a super-soldier program that had unseen consequences.
Nick Trailer is the sole survivor of a group of genetically-modified soldiers sent to fight in a jungle war where extreme measures were deemed the most expedient solution. Unfortunately, Nick's return will open a lot of old wounds, both emotional and psychological.
What makes this book interesting is the premise behind the selection of the super-soldier candidates, and those involved in the program. If you're someone who loves military stories or seeing the role psychology plays in politics and war, you definitely want to pick this book up.
Nick Trailer is the sole survivor of a group of genetically-modified soldiers sent to fight in a jungle war where extreme measures were deemed the most expedient solution. Unfortunately, Nick's return will open a lot of old wounds, both emotional and psychological.
What makes this book interesting is the premise behind the selection of the super-soldier candidates, and those involved in the program. If you're someone who loves military stories or seeing the role psychology plays in politics and war, you definitely want to pick this book up.
August 24, 2019
The first time I read this book, I couldn't put it down due to the page-turning plot and flow of the author's style. The second time I read it, I was struck by the depth of its characters and themes. On the surface, it is highly recommended for fans of Science Fiction and Military but I truly believe there is something for everyone here. I was looking for a unique voice in the SciFi/ Fantasy genre and I found it. I can't wait to read more of Joseph Carrabis' bibliography.
October 16, 2019
This book was scary good. And yes, I mean that in all the ways you can imagine. It was a little gory, but I don't think it would have been as good without it, oddly enough. It was absolutely riveting and a real nail biter. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book in exchange for a free copy.
September 29, 2024
"The Augmented Man" by Joseph Carrabis, narrated by Jesse Werner, is a gripping and thought-provoking audiobook that delves into the complexities of human augmentation, trauma, and the quest for humanity amidst the horrors of war. This review will explore the narrative, characters, themes, and the overall impact of the audiobook, providing a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and weaknesses.
Narrative and Plot
The story centres around Nicholas Trailer, the last of the Augmented Men, a group of biogenetically engineered super soldiers created to win a prolonged and devastating war. These soldiers, including Nick, were once children who were severely abused and transformed into emotionless killing machines. The war ends with Nick's team being sacrificed, leaving him as the sole survivor. He retreats to the forests of northern Maine, haunted by his past and struggling with his humanity.
The plot takes a significant turn when Nick encounters someone who expresses love towards him, a concept foreign to his existence. This newfound emotion propels him on a journey to understand love and humanity, leading him to confront his creators and the government that abandoned him. The narrative is a blend of intense action, psychological depth, and emotional exploration, making it a compelling listen from start to finish.
Characters
Nick Trailer is a complex protagonist whose journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring. His struggle with his augmented nature and his desire to reclaim his humanity is portrayed with great sensitivity. Carrabis does an excellent job of depicting Nick's internal conflict, making him a character that listeners can empathize with despite his monstrous abilities.
The supporting characters, including Nick's creators and the individuals he encounters, are well-developed and add depth to the story. Major James Donaldson, Nick's creator, is a particularly intriguing character, representing the moral ambiguities of scientific experimentation and military necessity. The interactions between Nick and these characters drive the narrative forward and highlight the ethical dilemmas at the heart of the story.
Themes
"The Augmented Man" explores several profound themes, including the ethics of human augmentation, the impact of trauma, and the search for identity and love. The audiobook raises important questions about the cost of creating super soldiers and the moral responsibilities of those who wield such power. Nick's journey is a poignant exploration of what it means to be human and the possibility of redemption and healing after immense suffering.
The theme of love is central to the narrative, serving as a catalyst for Nick's transformation. His struggle to understand and accept love is portrayed with emotional depth, making his journey relatable and moving. The audiobook also touches on themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom, adding layers of complexity to the story.
Narration
Jesse Werner's narration is a standout aspect of the audiobook. His performance brings the characters to life, capturing the nuances of their emotions and personalities. Werner's voice work enhances the listening experience, making the intense and emotional moments of the story even more impactful. His ability to convey Nick's internal struggles and the tension of the action scenes adds a dynamic quality to the audiobook.
Overall Impact
"The Augmented Man" is a powerful and thought-provoking audiobook that combines elements of science fiction, psychological thriller, and emotional drama. Carrabis's writing is engaging and evocative, drawing listeners into Nick's world and keeping them hooked until the very end. The audiobook's exploration of complex themes and its well-developed characters make it a memorable and impactful listen.
Conclusion
"The Augmented Man" by Joseph Carrabis, narrated by Jesse Werner, is a must-listen for fans of science fiction and psychological thrillers. Its exploration of human augmentation, trauma, and the quest for humanity is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. With its compelling characters, engaging plot, and outstanding narration, this audiobook is a standout addition to the genre and highly recommended for anyone looking for a deep and immersive listening experience.
Narrative and Plot
The story centres around Nicholas Trailer, the last of the Augmented Men, a group of biogenetically engineered super soldiers created to win a prolonged and devastating war. These soldiers, including Nick, were once children who were severely abused and transformed into emotionless killing machines. The war ends with Nick's team being sacrificed, leaving him as the sole survivor. He retreats to the forests of northern Maine, haunted by his past and struggling with his humanity.
The plot takes a significant turn when Nick encounters someone who expresses love towards him, a concept foreign to his existence. This newfound emotion propels him on a journey to understand love and humanity, leading him to confront his creators and the government that abandoned him. The narrative is a blend of intense action, psychological depth, and emotional exploration, making it a compelling listen from start to finish.
Characters
Nick Trailer is a complex protagonist whose journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring. His struggle with his augmented nature and his desire to reclaim his humanity is portrayed with great sensitivity. Carrabis does an excellent job of depicting Nick's internal conflict, making him a character that listeners can empathize with despite his monstrous abilities.
The supporting characters, including Nick's creators and the individuals he encounters, are well-developed and add depth to the story. Major James Donaldson, Nick's creator, is a particularly intriguing character, representing the moral ambiguities of scientific experimentation and military necessity. The interactions between Nick and these characters drive the narrative forward and highlight the ethical dilemmas at the heart of the story.
Themes
"The Augmented Man" explores several profound themes, including the ethics of human augmentation, the impact of trauma, and the search for identity and love. The audiobook raises important questions about the cost of creating super soldiers and the moral responsibilities of those who wield such power. Nick's journey is a poignant exploration of what it means to be human and the possibility of redemption and healing after immense suffering.
The theme of love is central to the narrative, serving as a catalyst for Nick's transformation. His struggle to understand and accept love is portrayed with emotional depth, making his journey relatable and moving. The audiobook also touches on themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom, adding layers of complexity to the story.
Narration
Jesse Werner's narration is a standout aspect of the audiobook. His performance brings the characters to life, capturing the nuances of their emotions and personalities. Werner's voice work enhances the listening experience, making the intense and emotional moments of the story even more impactful. His ability to convey Nick's internal struggles and the tension of the action scenes adds a dynamic quality to the audiobook.
Overall Impact
"The Augmented Man" is a powerful and thought-provoking audiobook that combines elements of science fiction, psychological thriller, and emotional drama. Carrabis's writing is engaging and evocative, drawing listeners into Nick's world and keeping them hooked until the very end. The audiobook's exploration of complex themes and its well-developed characters make it a memorable and impactful listen.
Conclusion
"The Augmented Man" by Joseph Carrabis, narrated by Jesse Werner, is a must-listen for fans of science fiction and psychological thrillers. Its exploration of human augmentation, trauma, and the quest for humanity is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. With its compelling characters, engaging plot, and outstanding narration, this audiobook is a standout addition to the genre and highly recommended for anyone looking for a deep and immersive listening experience.
October 9, 2020
Set in the relatively near future in a USA that has been through and come out the other side of a conflict over control of the South American Coca fields, 'The Augmented Man' of the title is Nicholas Trailer, the last remaining member of a special forces unit which took the special forces and black ops to a logical extreme, starts with him resurfacing in the states some ten years after the end of the war, and follows his former CO, his own personal Doctor Frankenstein, Captain Donaldson, trying to break through the walls he built turning Nick into one of the monsters the US needed to win their war.
This is where the truth lays upon which this novel is built because for generations old white men have fought their wars using young men already broken by the system. This was as true in Vietnam as it was in Iraq and Afghanistan. Simply put if young men have better choices they don't join the army. It why the most successful recruiting stations are in South Central or the Bronx rather than Malibu and Manhattan. It's why judges offer prison or the army as a choice to young offenders. If your already damage by the system then your disposable fodder for its wars. Take that to the extreme and the more damaged the more abused the better. All the easier to mold your pet monster if you can use the physiological trauma that is already there.
Donaldson took this all a step or three further, seeking candidates scared by childhood abuse and trauma and then changing their biology to match an already scared mental state. It worked, if anything it worked too well, because the powers that be determined that once they had done their job 'The Augmented Men' were surplus to requirements, ordering Donaldson to betray them, which is why Nick is the only one left. In this there is another of those grains of truth, politicians will always praise veterans when they are looking for votes, but it never ceases to astound me just how much those in powers want the Vets to suffer the after effects of war in silence and to be conveniently forgotten about till the next election cycle... The more inconvenient the veteran, well having purpose made monsters to win a war is one thing, letting them back on the streets that could be problematic... Think 'First Blood' the original Rambo movie (and easily the only one worth watching as it has something important to say.) but if Rambo was more physiologically scared and had been genetically altered till he was a stealthy version of the hulk...
And of course, once you invent the government an atomic bomb, they will get someone to make a better one...
There is a lot to unpack in this novel, there is a lot of psychology and intelligence behind it. The complex relationship between a monster and his maker. The torrid reality of Nicks early life that made him the perfect candidate. The politics behind everything. The man inside the monster desperately seeking a way to come back to the humanity he left behind. A master class in how to create a super solider from a physiological frame work damaged in the right ways to start with. The wiliness of the elite to use the monsters the failures in the system create, then dispose of them afterwards...
There is a lot uncomfortable truth in here, which is why it works so well. Its a cracking read, that will also make you think, like all good science fiction...
This is where the truth lays upon which this novel is built because for generations old white men have fought their wars using young men already broken by the system. This was as true in Vietnam as it was in Iraq and Afghanistan. Simply put if young men have better choices they don't join the army. It why the most successful recruiting stations are in South Central or the Bronx rather than Malibu and Manhattan. It's why judges offer prison or the army as a choice to young offenders. If your already damage by the system then your disposable fodder for its wars. Take that to the extreme and the more damaged the more abused the better. All the easier to mold your pet monster if you can use the physiological trauma that is already there.
Donaldson took this all a step or three further, seeking candidates scared by childhood abuse and trauma and then changing their biology to match an already scared mental state. It worked, if anything it worked too well, because the powers that be determined that once they had done their job 'The Augmented Men' were surplus to requirements, ordering Donaldson to betray them, which is why Nick is the only one left. In this there is another of those grains of truth, politicians will always praise veterans when they are looking for votes, but it never ceases to astound me just how much those in powers want the Vets to suffer the after effects of war in silence and to be conveniently forgotten about till the next election cycle... The more inconvenient the veteran, well having purpose made monsters to win a war is one thing, letting them back on the streets that could be problematic... Think 'First Blood' the original Rambo movie (and easily the only one worth watching as it has something important to say.) but if Rambo was more physiologically scared and had been genetically altered till he was a stealthy version of the hulk...
And of course, once you invent the government an atomic bomb, they will get someone to make a better one...
There is a lot to unpack in this novel, there is a lot of psychology and intelligence behind it. The complex relationship between a monster and his maker. The torrid reality of Nicks early life that made him the perfect candidate. The politics behind everything. The man inside the monster desperately seeking a way to come back to the humanity he left behind. A master class in how to create a super solider from a physiological frame work damaged in the right ways to start with. The wiliness of the elite to use the monsters the failures in the system create, then dispose of them afterwards...
There is a lot uncomfortable truth in here, which is why it works so well. Its a cracking read, that will also make you think, like all good science fiction...
May 31, 2023
The Augmented Man is both sci-fi and a psychological thriller. The main character is a person transformed to be a super-soldier with both physical augments and psychological conditioning—a
logical extension of what already happens with SEAL or some other hyper-elite military training. Nick, the augmented man, is a purpose-built man-made monster.
Except that he isn't. In spite of the intensive “training” which started when he was young, Nick still has a mind and a heart of his own.
Parts of the book are very technical, as befits a sci-fi novel. Many of the technical sections concern either psychology or the human nervous system or some other aspect of the human physiology and mental development. I don't know how accurate any of it is but the science stuff is all written in such a way as to be convincing.
The first half of the book is a duel between Nick and his creator, Donaldson, the professional in charge of the program that inflicted psychological manipulation on Nick and other elite super-soldiers. The first half also flashbacks to Nick's childhood and to significant events in his career. But mainly the first half is the duel, the war, between Donaldson and Nick. It's an intense war of words—the psychological part of the thriller--since both parties are trying to out-think and out-maneuver the other. The depth of characterization and the layers of conflict between the two makes for taut, emotionally involving reading.
The second half of the book goes into more action thriller genre, also tautly written and emotionally involving.
The best sci fi uses the future to explore the issues of current events and culture. The Augmented Man explores the relationship between the soldier and the nation the soldier serves, but not in the usual sentimental way. Nick was exploited for goals that were highly questionable—and isn't that a much more accurate way of describing military service than the usual platitudes about fighting for freedom?
The book is an intelligently written thriller with A LOT more character development than is usual in sci fi. It is an intense and immersive read and I recommend it highly.
logical extension of what already happens with SEAL or some other hyper-elite military training. Nick, the augmented man, is a purpose-built man-made monster.
Except that he isn't. In spite of the intensive “training” which started when he was young, Nick still has a mind and a heart of his own.
Parts of the book are very technical, as befits a sci-fi novel. Many of the technical sections concern either psychology or the human nervous system or some other aspect of the human physiology and mental development. I don't know how accurate any of it is but the science stuff is all written in such a way as to be convincing.
The first half of the book is a duel between Nick and his creator, Donaldson, the professional in charge of the program that inflicted psychological manipulation on Nick and other elite super-soldiers. The first half also flashbacks to Nick's childhood and to significant events in his career. But mainly the first half is the duel, the war, between Donaldson and Nick. It's an intense war of words—the psychological part of the thriller--since both parties are trying to out-think and out-maneuver the other. The depth of characterization and the layers of conflict between the two makes for taut, emotionally involving reading.
The second half of the book goes into more action thriller genre, also tautly written and emotionally involving.
The best sci fi uses the future to explore the issues of current events and culture. The Augmented Man explores the relationship between the soldier and the nation the soldier serves, but not in the usual sentimental way. Nick was exploited for goals that were highly questionable—and isn't that a much more accurate way of describing military service than the usual platitudes about fighting for freedom?
The book is an intelligently written thriller with A LOT more character development than is usual in sci fi. It is an intense and immersive read and I recommend it highly.
January 4, 2025
A Psychological Study Embedded in a Thriller
This is an unusual book and not my typical read. I usually shy away from violent books, but something about this book intrigued me. The story is surprisingly psychologically complex, and the author's writing style puts you right there, something I always appreciate. The book begins with the aftermath of a violent occurrence caused by the augmented men. This small band of ruthless killers was chosen as children because of the psychological damage they had endured at the hands of their parents and those who should have loved them. They've been physically altered in ways that aren't 100% explained, but they are big, strong guys who can withstand almost anything. The book quickly becomes more of a psychological study than something purely violent—although it does have a few such contemporary scenes mixed in (not just flashbacks). The man who created them is brought in to deactivate/kill the last remaining one, the “augmented man” referred to in the title. But this doctor wants to understand what makes this augmented being tick before that happens, what his mind is like now. The reader quickly enters a world where it's unsure what precisely is true about this person’s past and present. As someone who has studied psychology, I found this section of the book fascinating and gripping—worthwhile despite the violence I’m not so wild about. The author describes some truly gruesome things, including things that happened in the past. But he does so with a certain level of detachment that makes it somehow easier to swallow at times. Not always (like what he did to his mother—YIKES). The book opens with a long list of military personnel and doctor acknowledgments—the author clearly did a lot of research to make aspects as real as possible. If you're interested in a story with an intense psychological study along with those more thriller-like elements, you may find this book as intriguing as I did.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
This is an unusual book and not my typical read. I usually shy away from violent books, but something about this book intrigued me. The story is surprisingly psychologically complex, and the author's writing style puts you right there, something I always appreciate. The book begins with the aftermath of a violent occurrence caused by the augmented men. This small band of ruthless killers was chosen as children because of the psychological damage they had endured at the hands of their parents and those who should have loved them. They've been physically altered in ways that aren't 100% explained, but they are big, strong guys who can withstand almost anything. The book quickly becomes more of a psychological study than something purely violent—although it does have a few such contemporary scenes mixed in (not just flashbacks). The man who created them is brought in to deactivate/kill the last remaining one, the “augmented man” referred to in the title. But this doctor wants to understand what makes this augmented being tick before that happens, what his mind is like now. The reader quickly enters a world where it's unsure what precisely is true about this person’s past and present. As someone who has studied psychology, I found this section of the book fascinating and gripping—worthwhile despite the violence I’m not so wild about. The author describes some truly gruesome things, including things that happened in the past. But he does so with a certain level of detachment that makes it somehow easier to swallow at times. Not always (like what he did to his mother—YIKES). The book opens with a long list of military personnel and doctor acknowledgments—the author clearly did a lot of research to make aspects as real as possible. If you're interested in a story with an intense psychological study along with those more thriller-like elements, you may find this book as intriguing as I did.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
September 18, 2023
Reading is a personal experience. What touches one person may mean nothing to another. When I read a book, it is like the words come alive, I am surrounded by the scenery and the characters as the entire story unfolds around me and I am part of it. Reading to me becomes an all-encompassing sensory experience.
I did not get that experience with The Augmented Man by Joseph Carrabis.
I did, however, contemplate becoming a vegetarian.
The Augmented Man provides a glimpse into the brutal and not-impossible grim scenario of a future world where the government stops at nothing to create the ultimate weapon of war. With the backstory of the protagonist, and the mission of the story, Carrabis displays the effects of childhood trauma and PTSD and how people in power can extort that torment under the guise of the greater good, and the unintended, or not cared about, consequences of doing so.
His detailed descriptions, similar to the level of Tom Clancy at times, and comic bookish at others, reminded me of the narrative of a video game. Not necessarily a bad thing, but different. I wanted a creature of old that was violent but that my heart wept for. Instead I got a video game character, a lot of detail, a smattering of who the characters are, and a whole heap of violence. For me, that made it hard to empathize with the characters, and therefore embrace the story.
Now, admittedly, military sci-fi is not my favorite genre, nor am I a lover of video games. So, if you have a strong stomach, don’t mind graphic violence and you enjoy any of these topics, this is the book for you. For me, The Augmented Man continues to stay with me as I continue to ponder what is going on in the mind of Joseph Carrabis. I am hoping to be able to explore that a bit more in the future, as well as more of his books. If he can create this world, I am intrigued to see what else he can do.
I did not get that experience with The Augmented Man by Joseph Carrabis.
I did, however, contemplate becoming a vegetarian.
The Augmented Man provides a glimpse into the brutal and not-impossible grim scenario of a future world where the government stops at nothing to create the ultimate weapon of war. With the backstory of the protagonist, and the mission of the story, Carrabis displays the effects of childhood trauma and PTSD and how people in power can extort that torment under the guise of the greater good, and the unintended, or not cared about, consequences of doing so.
His detailed descriptions, similar to the level of Tom Clancy at times, and comic bookish at others, reminded me of the narrative of a video game. Not necessarily a bad thing, but different. I wanted a creature of old that was violent but that my heart wept for. Instead I got a video game character, a lot of detail, a smattering of who the characters are, and a whole heap of violence. For me, that made it hard to empathize with the characters, and therefore embrace the story.
Now, admittedly, military sci-fi is not my favorite genre, nor am I a lover of video games. So, if you have a strong stomach, don’t mind graphic violence and you enjoy any of these topics, this is the book for you. For me, The Augmented Man continues to stay with me as I continue to ponder what is going on in the mind of Joseph Carrabis. I am hoping to be able to explore that a bit more in the future, as well as more of his books. If he can create this world, I am intrigued to see what else he can do.
September 1, 2023
After reading The Augmented Man, I really had to pause and collect my thoughts before writing this review. (I always have to pause and reflect before I write any review.)
It is such a unique story.
But I have to admit that I always struggle with military-type, super-soldier books. I get lost in the lingo and the macho dude stuff that so many of these books are full of.
This one was no different in that I did get lost in the words and the militaryish details quite a bit.
Not a writer or a story flaw, exactly.
The first half of the book was full of very wordy descriptions and mild character development. The pacing was a little strange and I wasn't sure what to expect from the rest of the book, but I'm happy to say the second half straightened out and came together a bit better.
There's a really neat story hidden in all those words and extra descriptive pieces that I wasn't fond of. The author's enthusiasm for story telling and writing is there-which is probably the best part of a difficult read-and I think the story could certainly be tidied up and that neat story could really come out.
Take childhood trauma/PTSD and mix it up with military/ultimate weapon-type stories and this is what you get. If that's your jam, The Augmented Man may be for you.
I enjoyed that the author wasn't afraid of the nasty, the gritty. When I think of super soldiers, I think of hostile mutant-type guys that seem indestructible and destructive, and I got that from this story. If the pacing was tightened up, those super soldiers and the rest of the characters really could have gone at it and made some really intense scenes. I love a good fight scene between a good guy and a bad guy and use it in my books, as well.
Solid 3-4 star book from Joseph Carrabis.
It is such a unique story.
But I have to admit that I always struggle with military-type, super-soldier books. I get lost in the lingo and the macho dude stuff that so many of these books are full of.
This one was no different in that I did get lost in the words and the militaryish details quite a bit.
Not a writer or a story flaw, exactly.
The first half of the book was full of very wordy descriptions and mild character development. The pacing was a little strange and I wasn't sure what to expect from the rest of the book, but I'm happy to say the second half straightened out and came together a bit better.
There's a really neat story hidden in all those words and extra descriptive pieces that I wasn't fond of. The author's enthusiasm for story telling and writing is there-which is probably the best part of a difficult read-and I think the story could certainly be tidied up and that neat story could really come out.
Take childhood trauma/PTSD and mix it up with military/ultimate weapon-type stories and this is what you get. If that's your jam, The Augmented Man may be for you.
I enjoyed that the author wasn't afraid of the nasty, the gritty. When I think of super soldiers, I think of hostile mutant-type guys that seem indestructible and destructive, and I got that from this story. If the pacing was tightened up, those super soldiers and the rest of the characters really could have gone at it and made some really intense scenes. I love a good fight scene between a good guy and a bad guy and use it in my books, as well.
Solid 3-4 star book from Joseph Carrabis.
January 10, 2025
**Actual Rating 2.5**
This book was a lesson that became lost in the storytelling. This story was trying to make a point but took too long to get there. The writing style was broken into three different parts that felt like reading 3 different books. It was imaginative and engaging at parts, while unnecessarily violent and dull at others. The middle/end was the most interesting, with parts of it shining through. The entire first 'act' could be cut entirely because it only served to dilute and contradict the other two parts. The action scenes were well written, with enough detail to follow, but that same attention to detail left other parts of the book with too much information. With it's military focus and a narrative on the monsters we make from war, it had potential to pack a punch. I could see the potential for an amazing story and powerful message. Especially because the author did well to add a human element to the story telling that I connected with. However, as I neared the ending and guessed its direction, I found the story to loose focus and become contrived to reach an ending, rather then it following a natural course. Until it came to a conclusion, that in my opinion, fell flat.
Rating
2.5 Stars
Military sci-fi lovers may find this to be a gem, but was too disjointed to keep my attention throughout. In the end I was split, in some aspects it was a three or four star book, but in others a one or two star. I had hoped for a different kind of ending, but as the story progressed it was obvious where the author was pushing the plot towards. Leaving a sour taste the further I pushed towards the conclusion—one word came to mind as I finished the last chapter. "Typical."
This book was a lesson that became lost in the storytelling. This story was trying to make a point but took too long to get there. The writing style was broken into three different parts that felt like reading 3 different books. It was imaginative and engaging at parts, while unnecessarily violent and dull at others. The middle/end was the most interesting, with parts of it shining through. The entire first 'act' could be cut entirely because it only served to dilute and contradict the other two parts. The action scenes were well written, with enough detail to follow, but that same attention to detail left other parts of the book with too much information. With it's military focus and a narrative on the monsters we make from war, it had potential to pack a punch. I could see the potential for an amazing story and powerful message. Especially because the author did well to add a human element to the story telling that I connected with. However, as I neared the ending and guessed its direction, I found the story to loose focus and become contrived to reach an ending, rather then it following a natural course. Until it came to a conclusion, that in my opinion, fell flat.
Rating
2.5 Stars
Military sci-fi lovers may find this to be a gem, but was too disjointed to keep my attention throughout. In the end I was split, in some aspects it was a three or four star book, but in others a one or two star. I had hoped for a different kind of ending, but as the story progressed it was obvious where the author was pushing the plot towards. Leaving a sour taste the further I pushed towards the conclusion—one word came to mind as I finished the last chapter. "Typical."
April 26, 2023
This intense near-future sci-fi story explores the question of "what do you do with a deadly weapon when it's no longer needed?" And when that deadly weapon is a person, an Augmented Man, is it possible for him to come home?
The bulk of the first half of the book delves into the psyche of "people who couldn't let go of war", namely Trailer, one of the Augmented Men, and explores whether he can be rehabituated or whether he'll need to be neutralized. Using flashbacks, that section also takes the reader through some of what was done to create the Augmented Men, the conditioning they experienced, and describes some of Trailer's traumatic childhood experiences that made him a candidate for the program. Then the second half of the book moves away from the heavy psychological thoughts and morphs into more of a political thriller, with plenty of action as Trailer fights for his own survival and for his love.
The story features some incredible descriptive details, such as "globs of rain arced down from the sky and exploded on Donaldson's shoulder boards". It's also heavily detailed in areas ranging from military equipment to psychology to anatomy and physiology. The story is well written, with intriguing characters, and flows smoothly, even the parts where it bounces from one time period to another, from chapter to chapter.
Overall, this was an engrossing read, thought-provoking, with a very plausible feel to it, informative in the psychological aspects and exploration of trauma, intense in the action in the latter parts and in the characters' memories. It's not a light read, but it is a satisfying one.
The bulk of the first half of the book delves into the psyche of "people who couldn't let go of war", namely Trailer, one of the Augmented Men, and explores whether he can be rehabituated or whether he'll need to be neutralized. Using flashbacks, that section also takes the reader through some of what was done to create the Augmented Men, the conditioning they experienced, and describes some of Trailer's traumatic childhood experiences that made him a candidate for the program. Then the second half of the book moves away from the heavy psychological thoughts and morphs into more of a political thriller, with plenty of action as Trailer fights for his own survival and for his love.
The story features some incredible descriptive details, such as "globs of rain arced down from the sky and exploded on Donaldson's shoulder boards". It's also heavily detailed in areas ranging from military equipment to psychology to anatomy and physiology. The story is well written, with intriguing characters, and flows smoothly, even the parts where it bounces from one time period to another, from chapter to chapter.
Overall, this was an engrossing read, thought-provoking, with a very plausible feel to it, informative in the psychological aspects and exploration of trauma, intense in the action in the latter parts and in the characters' memories. It's not a light read, but it is a satisfying one.
August 6, 2025
This review was first published on Kurt's Frontier.
Synopsis:
Nick Trailer is the last surviving biogenetically engineered super soldier from the war in South America. The government agency selected nine severely abused and traumatized children, transforming them into monsters capable of committing the most horrifying acts without remorse. The war ended with Nick’s team sacrificed to the enemy as part of the truce, but he escaped and fled deep into the forests of northern Maine. Then something shocking happened. A woman said, “I love you.” Afraid that returning Karen’s love would mean killing her, he sought out his handlers. His creator, Major James Donaldson, is given orders to kill him but decides to go against those orders to help him. Can the ultimate weapon fall in love?
Review:
Joseph Carrabis’s The Augmented Man blends science fiction with psychological thriller. The story follows Nick Trailer, a member of a black government program. The abuse he endured as a child made him perfect. However, those who created him forgot that he was still a human being.
The first half of the story explores the psychology of becoming augmented, including its history through Nick Trailer and James Donaldson’s verbal sparring. While interesting, it makes this part of the story drag. Once the story reaches the halfway point, the pace picks up as Trailer faces a new, more advanced augmented man who has gone mad. If a person can get past the slow backstory, the second part becomes satisfying with action and tragedy.
Synopsis:
Nick Trailer is the last surviving biogenetically engineered super soldier from the war in South America. The government agency selected nine severely abused and traumatized children, transforming them into monsters capable of committing the most horrifying acts without remorse. The war ended with Nick’s team sacrificed to the enemy as part of the truce, but he escaped and fled deep into the forests of northern Maine. Then something shocking happened. A woman said, “I love you.” Afraid that returning Karen’s love would mean killing her, he sought out his handlers. His creator, Major James Donaldson, is given orders to kill him but decides to go against those orders to help him. Can the ultimate weapon fall in love?
Review:
Joseph Carrabis’s The Augmented Man blends science fiction with psychological thriller. The story follows Nick Trailer, a member of a black government program. The abuse he endured as a child made him perfect. However, those who created him forgot that he was still a human being.
The first half of the story explores the psychology of becoming augmented, including its history through Nick Trailer and James Donaldson’s verbal sparring. While interesting, it makes this part of the story drag. Once the story reaches the halfway point, the pace picks up as Trailer faces a new, more advanced augmented man who has gone mad. If a person can get past the slow backstory, the second part becomes satisfying with action and tragedy.
August 15, 2020
Author Joseph Carrabis (https://josephcarrabis.com/) published the novel “The Augmented Man” in 2019. Mr. Carrabis has published more than a dozen novels.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The story is set in the near-contemporary US.
The Augmented Men were created by the US to take brutal warfare to the enemy. All but one have, by the time of the story, died. The last one, Nick Trailer, surrenders himself to Captain James Donaldson. Donaldson is one of the men who created the Augmented men.
The two are left alone for days to talk about what has happened and how Trailer can if possible move forward with his life.
I had to call a Rule of 50 after 5+ hours reading this 313-page science fiction novel and abandon it. I had read 46% of it by then but I felt it was so dull and seemed to be going nowhere. I kept going on hoping that the story would develop, but, with disappointment, I just had to give it up. The author did a good job of writing, but I could not get interested in the plot. I do not like the cover art. It has as dark a feel to it as the story does. I give this novel a 2 out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The story is set in the near-contemporary US.
The Augmented Men were created by the US to take brutal warfare to the enemy. All but one have, by the time of the story, died. The last one, Nick Trailer, surrenders himself to Captain James Donaldson. Donaldson is one of the men who created the Augmented men.
The two are left alone for days to talk about what has happened and how Trailer can if possible move forward with his life.
I had to call a Rule of 50 after 5+ hours reading this 313-page science fiction novel and abandon it. I had read 46% of it by then but I felt it was so dull and seemed to be going nowhere. I kept going on hoping that the story would develop, but, with disappointment, I just had to give it up. The author did a good job of writing, but I could not get interested in the plot. I do not like the cover art. It has as dark a feel to it as the story does. I give this novel a 2 out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
November 14, 2024
This incredibly creative and imaginative story is about an augmented soldier, the last of his kind, who was basically left for dead, but still alive, trying to find his way in a world that doesn't seem to want him there. The story opens when he makes a bloody mess in a bar (literal blood, this book is not for squeamish folks) and thereby alerting his makers to his continued existence.
How does this poor soul, who reminded me a lot of Frankenstein's monster, but at least with a name of his own, and a few friends, make his way in the world? And when he knows someone cares about him, how does he have a chance of caring about this person in return?
A few issues kept me from giving this more stars, the pacing, for example, threw me off a bit, and a few other minor mistakes and typos.
Additionally, it's not a book for kiddos though, with many of the fight scenes described in detail, and the F word used regularly. Over all though, people who don't mind graphic violence and language and who enjoys stories about government secrets, scientifically enhanced soldiers, or similar stories, would likely enjoy this tale.
How does this poor soul, who reminded me a lot of Frankenstein's monster, but at least with a name of his own, and a few friends, make his way in the world? And when he knows someone cares about him, how does he have a chance of caring about this person in return?
A few issues kept me from giving this more stars, the pacing, for example, threw me off a bit, and a few other minor mistakes and typos.
Additionally, it's not a book for kiddos though, with many of the fight scenes described in detail, and the F word used regularly. Over all though, people who don't mind graphic violence and language and who enjoys stories about government secrets, scientifically enhanced soldiers, or similar stories, would likely enjoy this tale.
May 29, 2020
Joseph Carrabis' "The Augmented Man" at first glance might appear to be just another military SF novel, but it's so much more that that. The story Carrabis tells with consummate skill is a reinvention of "Frankenstein", the classic tale by Mary Shelley. Set in a near future United States that seems very plausible, we are witness to the fate of a "monster" created by the US military who was supposed to die after accomplishing his mission, but managed to survive and return from a foreign war. It plumbs the depths of his psychology and those who were instrumental in his development, as the Augmented Man attempts to reclaim his humanity, even as the US military and his handlers work to terminate his existence. Not just a suspense thriller set in the future, this is an astonishing novel of great psychological depth and power that transcends its genre and its themes of love, redemption and what it means to be human will resonate with you long after you finish the book. I highly recommend it, whether you are a fan of SF or simply want a great read to explore.
May 4, 2021
A great insight into future military warfare
The Augmented man is a cleverly written piece that is set between a time period of 10 and 30 years from the now and focuses on issues surrounding childhood trauma and PTSD.
A Soldier returns to the USA from a war in South America, the sole survivor of his team and seeks out to confront his past to make peace with his current physical and mental state. Most of the book is centred on a dialog between Nicholas Trailer (the Augmented Man) and his Commander Donaldson. The tension, anger, the fear, confusion and suppressed volatility is palpable in this reunion. The authenticity of these scenes, thoughts, emotions and feelings drew me into this story and it kept me on my toes till the very end. I ended up empathising with all the characters in the book, particularly Trailer as he straddles the line of hero and anti-hero.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Joseph on this book, and you can read my interview in this link..
https://rikachandra.medium.com/the-mi...
The Augmented man is a cleverly written piece that is set between a time period of 10 and 30 years from the now and focuses on issues surrounding childhood trauma and PTSD.
A Soldier returns to the USA from a war in South America, the sole survivor of his team and seeks out to confront his past to make peace with his current physical and mental state. Most of the book is centred on a dialog between Nicholas Trailer (the Augmented Man) and his Commander Donaldson. The tension, anger, the fear, confusion and suppressed volatility is palpable in this reunion. The authenticity of these scenes, thoughts, emotions and feelings drew me into this story and it kept me on my toes till the very end. I ended up empathising with all the characters in the book, particularly Trailer as he straddles the line of hero and anti-hero.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Joseph on this book, and you can read my interview in this link..
https://rikachandra.medium.com/the-mi...
November 23, 2024
Joseph Carrabis's The Augmented Man dives into a futuristic world of technology, humanity, and the ethical dilemmas that arise when the two conflict with one another. The themes explored in The Augmented Man are both timely and important, posing important questions about the future of humanity in a technologically advanced society. Carrabis encourages readers to consider what it means to be truly "human" in a world where enhancements can alter everything we know about ourselves. The process of creating Augmented Men touches on the morals of science and the military while also reflecting on Frankenstein's relationship with his creature.
While the philosophical questions are note-worthy, there are instances where the exposition feels heavy-handed and removed from the action. Moments of high tension and quieter, contemplative passages don't always transition well, making them feel like they are from two different sources. Despite this, the story question kept me engaged. A satisfying blend of science fiction and philosophical musings, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre.
While the philosophical questions are note-worthy, there are instances where the exposition feels heavy-handed and removed from the action. Moments of high tension and quieter, contemplative passages don't always transition well, making them feel like they are from two different sources. Despite this, the story question kept me engaged. A satisfying blend of science fiction and philosophical musings, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre.
January 20, 2020
I'm not normally a fan of science fiction or military thrillers, but the description of this book intrigued me and I was happy to win a review copy from Library Thing and Black Rose Writing.
I admire the author's ability to apply his knowledge of existing science, psychology, and technology to imagine and create a somewhat plausible future world. Complete with the obligatory evil, self-serving government officials.
Nick Trailer, the rogue augmented man whom the military had not expected to survive the war, starts out a bit like a monster but grows sympathetic by the end of the story. I enjoyed the relationship between him and his creator, Jim Donaldson, as the two had much more in common than they originally realized.
There was a lull in the middle where the characters delved into psychoanalysis, the intense final battle scene went on too long (I kept thinking each fight was the final one), and the ending left me a little cold. But otherwise, it was a fast-paced, entertaining read.
I admire the author's ability to apply his knowledge of existing science, psychology, and technology to imagine and create a somewhat plausible future world. Complete with the obligatory evil, self-serving government officials.
Nick Trailer, the rogue augmented man whom the military had not expected to survive the war, starts out a bit like a monster but grows sympathetic by the end of the story. I enjoyed the relationship between him and his creator, Jim Donaldson, as the two had much more in common than they originally realized.
There was a lull in the middle where the characters delved into psychoanalysis, the intense final battle scene went on too long (I kept thinking each fight was the final one), and the ending left me a little cold. But otherwise, it was a fast-paced, entertaining read.
September 3, 2023
The augmented man Nicholas Trailer is a man that was raised up and out of the traumatic ashes in a world on fire around him, a society that groomed, and enslaved the innocence of children, of this young man to be a soldier of evil, one of many thousands. Do we ever truly understand the underworld of absolute brutal darkness that stains the soul? a world that children are destroyed and used behind the veil of wars. augmented man takes the reader on a experience and introduces heroes like Captain James Donaldson, who made it his mission to save some children, and raise them from the horror and pain into augmented men. Nicholas Trailer was one of these boys, rescued, his journey will leave the reader spellbound, emotional and a champion for not only Nicholas, but for all of humanity that rises above great pain to have a light shine through them. * the author uses some of his own personal life experiences in his characters*
February 21, 2020
This is a blistering tour de force that delves into the sociology and psyche of both the Frankenstein monster creator and the monster himself. Joseph Carrabis has created a military and scientific warrior that could mind read and wipe out Rambo, Robocop and Steve Austin ‘The Bionic Man’ at once, in an instant.
The writing is masterful with the author displaying a depth of understanding of:
• Empathy – love, camaraderie and bond-ship
• Communication (verbal, none verbal, visual)
• Technology
• Science
• Psychoanalysis
• Intelligence based warfare
I was hooked by this line - ‘The function of intelligence isn’t to discover secrets, it’s to instil fear…’
I’m delighted to find an author who has a great catalogue of work ranging from fiction to state of the art Artificial Intelligence and expertise in IT.
The writing is masterful with the author displaying a depth of understanding of:
• Empathy – love, camaraderie and bond-ship
• Communication (verbal, none verbal, visual)
• Technology
• Science
• Psychoanalysis
• Intelligence based warfare
I was hooked by this line - ‘The function of intelligence isn’t to discover secrets, it’s to instil fear…’
I’m delighted to find an author who has a great catalogue of work ranging from fiction to state of the art Artificial Intelligence and expertise in IT.
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