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COMING JUNE 2023...
ONE SECOND... ONE BREATH... ONE CHANCE
Fasten your seatbelt low and tight for an aviation and medical thriller that'll grip your mind and capture your heart.
Dylan Malloy has retreated from the world, throwing himself into a second choice job in Australia’s remote outback. His days as a self-sufficient loner, however, are rapidly ending.
Dylan knows he won’t make his twenty-fifth birthday without life saving surgery. His one-and-only chance means a desperate journey to hospital—today—and the last flight to Perth departs in just a few minutes. But the thought of boarding that 737 is as painful as the sinister disease destroying his body from within, and as dark as the underlying truths he fights to keep secret.
As he battles his fears about the journey and his operation, Dylan has no clue his many ghosts are about to return in ways he could never imagine. Dylan’s life choices and turbulent history will culminate on flight JW-238 in a seat gripping climax you won’t see coming.
Will Dylan’s next actions decide his fate, or is he destined to die young and alone?
The thrilling drama of O2 will have you questioning how our lives play out. Do we randomly stumble through it all, or is there a predetermined script?
If you enjoyed reading Falling, The Pilot's Daughter, or Hostage - or the movie 7500 - then you're going to love the story of O2.
Also for fans of Maybe in Another Life and Five Feet Apart.
ONE SECOND... ONE BREATH... ONE CHANCE
Fasten your seatbelt low and tight for an aviation and medical thriller that'll grip your mind and capture your heart.
Dylan Malloy has retreated from the world, throwing himself into a second choice job in Australia’s remote outback. His days as a self-sufficient loner, however, are rapidly ending.
Dylan knows he won’t make his twenty-fifth birthday without life saving surgery. His one-and-only chance means a desperate journey to hospital—today—and the last flight to Perth departs in just a few minutes. But the thought of boarding that 737 is as painful as the sinister disease destroying his body from within, and as dark as the underlying truths he fights to keep secret.
As he battles his fears about the journey and his operation, Dylan has no clue his many ghosts are about to return in ways he could never imagine. Dylan’s life choices and turbulent history will culminate on flight JW-238 in a seat gripping climax you won’t see coming.
Will Dylan’s next actions decide his fate, or is he destined to die young and alone?
The thrilling drama of O2 will have you questioning how our lives play out. Do we randomly stumble through it all, or is there a predetermined script?
If you enjoyed reading Falling, The Pilot's Daughter, or Hostage - or the movie 7500 - then you're going to love the story of O2.
Also for fans of Maybe in Another Life and Five Feet Apart.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2023
8 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Nic D'Alessandro
2 books13 followersBorn and bred on an island state, I write about the land, sea, sky and people. I’m fascinated by the human condition, crazy on anything that floats or flies, and passionate about the beauty and value of true wilderness.
I’m into writing character-based dramas, thrillers with depth, and stories that dig deep into what it means to be human. I enjoy a meaty theme or two, and I subtly weave contemporary issues into my books when it suits.
When I’m not writing, I earn a living as an education consultant, specialist in the aviation industry, and aerial and landscape photographer. In previous lives I’ve been a senior manager in the public sector and an educational leader in the university sector.
In my spare time I’m a keen sailor and I take to the sky in aircraft whenever I can. I obtained my pilot licence at age seventeen, and later celebrated my forties by building a full-size 737 flight simulator in my garage.
I live in Tasmania, Australia with my wife, and extended family.
I’m into writing character-based dramas, thrillers with depth, and stories that dig deep into what it means to be human. I enjoy a meaty theme or two, and I subtly weave contemporary issues into my books when it suits.
When I’m not writing, I earn a living as an education consultant, specialist in the aviation industry, and aerial and landscape photographer. In previous lives I’ve been a senior manager in the public sector and an educational leader in the university sector.
In my spare time I’m a keen sailor and I take to the sky in aircraft whenever I can. I obtained my pilot licence at age seventeen, and later celebrated my forties by building a full-size 737 flight simulator in my garage.
I live in Tasmania, Australia with my wife, and extended family.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 26, 2023
The first chapter roped me in. I wasn’t sure where the story was taking me but was on the edge of my seat by the end.
This is the second novel I’ve read and enjoyed by Nic D’Alessandro (his first: ‘Convergence on the 42nd Parallel’), a Tasmanian author.
I went in cold, did not read the blurb, and I’m glad of that. I didn’t know what to expect but knew the author was interested and skilled in aviation, therefore not surprised when this element featured. As they say, write about what you know, and this is a good example of just that.
As the excitement builds, the aviation details are described in a way that allows the reader to understand it all.
I didn’t initially warm to the protagonist, but that’s not a criticism. It made the read more interesting and set up good character development for a series.
D’Alessandro’s writing style is sharp:
‘She tries to smile, but it slips and slides off her face.’
‘I find the diner, eventually, and push open the door. No need for the bell—the hinges shriek
like a bird of prey.’
I look forward to the next instalment.
This is the second novel I’ve read and enjoyed by Nic D’Alessandro (his first: ‘Convergence on the 42nd Parallel’), a Tasmanian author.
I went in cold, did not read the blurb, and I’m glad of that. I didn’t know what to expect but knew the author was interested and skilled in aviation, therefore not surprised when this element featured. As they say, write about what you know, and this is a good example of just that.
As the excitement builds, the aviation details are described in a way that allows the reader to understand it all.
I didn’t initially warm to the protagonist, but that’s not a criticism. It made the read more interesting and set up good character development for a series.
D’Alessandro’s writing style is sharp:
‘She tries to smile, but it slips and slides off her face.’
‘I find the diner, eventually, and push open the door. No need for the bell—the hinges shriek
like a bird of prey.’
I look forward to the next instalment.
October 10, 2023
O2 (Dylan Malloy, #1) by Nic D'Alessandro
Synopsis /
ONE SECOND... ONE BREATH... ONE CHANCE
Dylan Malloy has retreated from the world, throwing himself into a second-choice job in Australia’s remote outback. His days as a self-sufficient loner, however, are rapidly ending.
Dylan knows he won’t make his twenty-fifth birthday without life saving surgery. His one-and-only chance means a desperate journey to hospital—today—and the last flight to Perth departs in just a few minutes. But the thought of boarding that 737 is as painful as the sinister disease destroying his body from within, and as dark as the underlying truths he fights to keep secret.
As he battles his fears about the journey and his operation, Dylan has no clue his many ghosts are about to return in ways he could never imagine. Dylan’s life choices and turbulent history will culminate on flight JW-238 in a seat gripping climax you won’t see coming.
Will Dylan’s next actions decide his fate, or is he destined to die young and alone?
My Thoughts /
I very much enjoyed this author's previous work, Convergence on the 42nd Parallel, so when I saw that Nic D'Alessandro has again put pen to paper…yes please, sign me up.
O2 did not disappoint. Although I must confess to not having paid much attention to the book blurb before I started, because if I had, you might not have found me reading this one so close to getting on a plane myself. I'm now rethinking my life's choices! Pray that circumstances surrounding flight JW-238 do not repeat next Thursday!! Not leaving anything to chance, I'll be wearing a lucky amulet; burning incense and chanting madly. I pity to poor sod who sits next to me on the flight!!
I wasn't too sure about the start. With chapter titles beginning with Present Day, 2% Low; Five years earlier; A further four years earlier; Two months later, Perth - at first it all seemed just too confusing. But then Yoda spoke: Patience you must have, my young padawan. Have patience and all will be revealed. And it was.
I read O2 in one sitting. I had other things to do that day, but D'Alessandro's writing drew me in, and I just didn't want to put it down. I didn't warm to our protagonist in the beginning - young Dylan came across as lazy, self-serving and with a HUGE chip on his shoulder. But as D'Alessandro began to fill in the layers it all just made sense.
The supporting characters D'Alessandro has written warmed my heart. The long-haul truck driver Dylan meets called 'Pothole' and Dylan's work-mate, Allie are two that come to mind very quickly. These characters are very real, and I don't have any problems imagining them in Dylan's life. I hope D'Alessandro might continue to incorporate them in future books.
The story has an aviation theme and although I'm not a pilot, I do have plenty of common sense, and D'Alessandro has written a totally believable scenario - hence my earlier amulet comments!
If you love travel, have a love of planes and all things aviation, you might just love this one - I recommend you give it a go. And if you are feeling very brave, leave your amulet at home.
Synopsis /
ONE SECOND... ONE BREATH... ONE CHANCE
Dylan Malloy has retreated from the world, throwing himself into a second-choice job in Australia’s remote outback. His days as a self-sufficient loner, however, are rapidly ending.
Dylan knows he won’t make his twenty-fifth birthday without life saving surgery. His one-and-only chance means a desperate journey to hospital—today—and the last flight to Perth departs in just a few minutes. But the thought of boarding that 737 is as painful as the sinister disease destroying his body from within, and as dark as the underlying truths he fights to keep secret.
As he battles his fears about the journey and his operation, Dylan has no clue his many ghosts are about to return in ways he could never imagine. Dylan’s life choices and turbulent history will culminate on flight JW-238 in a seat gripping climax you won’t see coming.
Will Dylan’s next actions decide his fate, or is he destined to die young and alone?
My Thoughts /
I very much enjoyed this author's previous work, Convergence on the 42nd Parallel, so when I saw that Nic D'Alessandro has again put pen to paper…yes please, sign me up.
O2 did not disappoint. Although I must confess to not having paid much attention to the book blurb before I started, because if I had, you might not have found me reading this one so close to getting on a plane myself. I'm now rethinking my life's choices! Pray that circumstances surrounding flight JW-238 do not repeat next Thursday!! Not leaving anything to chance, I'll be wearing a lucky amulet; burning incense and chanting madly. I pity to poor sod who sits next to me on the flight!!
I wasn't too sure about the start. With chapter titles beginning with Present Day, 2% Low; Five years earlier; A further four years earlier; Two months later, Perth - at first it all seemed just too confusing. But then Yoda spoke: Patience you must have, my young padawan. Have patience and all will be revealed. And it was.
I read O2 in one sitting. I had other things to do that day, but D'Alessandro's writing drew me in, and I just didn't want to put it down. I didn't warm to our protagonist in the beginning - young Dylan came across as lazy, self-serving and with a HUGE chip on his shoulder. But as D'Alessandro began to fill in the layers it all just made sense.
The supporting characters D'Alessandro has written warmed my heart. The long-haul truck driver Dylan meets called 'Pothole' and Dylan's work-mate, Allie are two that come to mind very quickly. These characters are very real, and I don't have any problems imagining them in Dylan's life. I hope D'Alessandro might continue to incorporate them in future books.
The story has an aviation theme and although I'm not a pilot, I do have plenty of common sense, and D'Alessandro has written a totally believable scenario - hence my earlier amulet comments!
If you love travel, have a love of planes and all things aviation, you might just love this one - I recommend you give it a go. And if you are feeling very brave, leave your amulet at home.
June 16, 2023
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**3.5 stars**
O2 by Nic D'Alessandro. (2023).
**Thank you to the author for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative**
Dylan has retreated from the world, throwing himself into a second-choice job in Australia's remote outback. He needs life-saving surgery, and soon. He needs to get a plane today. But the thought of getting on that plane is as painful as the sinister disease destroying his body. As he battles his fears about the journey and his operation, Dylan has no clue that his many ghosts are about to return in ways he could never imagine. His life choices and turbulent history will all come together on this flight...
This was a super easy read that could be enjoyed over a few hours, a weekend, or as a vacation read. Part life drama and part thriller, readers are introduced to 24-year-old Dylan. The storyline flicks between the present and flashbacks from Dylan's past; between the two we learn that Dylan is seriously ill and has had a fair amount of trauma in his life. I appreciated the descriptions of Dylan's disease deterioration in his everyday life as it wasn't a disease I had a lot of knowledge about. The action and drama ramps right up in the last quarter of the book in a series of events that reads like an action movie.
Overall: an interesting storyline and easy read. The cover of the book provides the information that it is book one of a series about Dylan, so I'm intrigued to see what's next for him.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**3.5 stars**
O2 by Nic D'Alessandro. (2023).
**Thank you to the author for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative**
Dylan has retreated from the world, throwing himself into a second-choice job in Australia's remote outback. He needs life-saving surgery, and soon. He needs to get a plane today. But the thought of getting on that plane is as painful as the sinister disease destroying his body. As he battles his fears about the journey and his operation, Dylan has no clue that his many ghosts are about to return in ways he could never imagine. His life choices and turbulent history will all come together on this flight...
This was a super easy read that could be enjoyed over a few hours, a weekend, or as a vacation read. Part life drama and part thriller, readers are introduced to 24-year-old Dylan. The storyline flicks between the present and flashbacks from Dylan's past; between the two we learn that Dylan is seriously ill and has had a fair amount of trauma in his life. I appreciated the descriptions of Dylan's disease deterioration in his everyday life as it wasn't a disease I had a lot of knowledge about. The action and drama ramps right up in the last quarter of the book in a series of events that reads like an action movie.
Overall: an interesting storyline and easy read. The cover of the book provides the information that it is book one of a series about Dylan, so I'm intrigued to see what's next for him.
July 3, 2023
A big thank you to the author for sending me a copy of his new book O2, releasing on June 22nd. When I first read the synopsis I was intrigued, and I got so much more than I expected, in a good way.
This is the story of Dylan. He has had a really tough life and is travelling to Perth from Melbourne for a new start. He has always been unwell but he hasn’t let that stop him from going on with his life. But he gets progressively worse and needs life saving surgery, and his only hope to get on a flight from outback Karratha. Only he is scared of flying.
There is so much more to it than that but that is the general idea. It is a story of loss, grief, family and living your life. I don’t want to give anything away so you will just have to read it for yourself.
This is the story of Dylan. He has had a really tough life and is travelling to Perth from Melbourne for a new start. He has always been unwell but he hasn’t let that stop him from going on with his life. But he gets progressively worse and needs life saving surgery, and his only hope to get on a flight from outback Karratha. Only he is scared of flying.
There is so much more to it than that but that is the general idea. It is a story of loss, grief, family and living your life. I don’t want to give anything away so you will just have to read it for yourself.
June 22, 2023
O2, the first book in the Dylan Malloy series, is a taut medical drama and aviation thriller combination.
Nic D'Alessandro explores the concept of how we cope when life throws us consistent curve balls.
I was pulled straight into the story from the prologue with a life or death situation and Dylan hanging in the balance. The story then goes back to what led to this event.
Dylan has had a troubled upbringing with no real stability. He is often left with his aunt when his mother is working overseas. His aunt's partner is abusive and makes it clear he doesn't want Dylan around. I found him to be an angry young man and I had trouble warming to him. Maybe it was his disease that made him this way, but he was handed plenty of opportunities and it took him well into his 20's to realise this. That aside, Nic's portrayal of Dylan's slow decline in health and his denial that he was seriously ill, and his eventual character growth, was well written.
The in-air flight drama was up there with T.J. Newman's Falling and had me on the edge of my seat. It was a compelling ending to the novel.
O2 is a story of human endurance, overcoming adversity, re-imagining your dreams when life doesn't go as you planned and accepting the things you cannot change.
There are some truly memorable supporting characters in this story who I would love to see again in future novels; pothole the truck driver, Nancy, and Dylan's friend Allie.
I'm hoping Dylan will be less cynical and learn some empathy in future novels.
Nic D'Alessandro explores the concept of how we cope when life throws us consistent curve balls.
I was pulled straight into the story from the prologue with a life or death situation and Dylan hanging in the balance. The story then goes back to what led to this event.
Dylan has had a troubled upbringing with no real stability. He is often left with his aunt when his mother is working overseas. His aunt's partner is abusive and makes it clear he doesn't want Dylan around. I found him to be an angry young man and I had trouble warming to him. Maybe it was his disease that made him this way, but he was handed plenty of opportunities and it took him well into his 20's to realise this. That aside, Nic's portrayal of Dylan's slow decline in health and his denial that he was seriously ill, and his eventual character growth, was well written.
The in-air flight drama was up there with T.J. Newman's Falling and had me on the edge of my seat. It was a compelling ending to the novel.
O2 is a story of human endurance, overcoming adversity, re-imagining your dreams when life doesn't go as you planned and accepting the things you cannot change.
There are some truly memorable supporting characters in this story who I would love to see again in future novels; pothole the truck driver, Nancy, and Dylan's friend Allie.
I'm hoping Dylan will be less cynical and learn some empathy in future novels.
June 25, 2023
This is one of the best books I’ve read in a long while. As the book opens Dylan is a troubled young man trying to make his way overland from Melbourne to Perth. He is reluctant to talk about himself to anyone he meets along the way, even a kind and instinctively sympathetic truck driver who eventually gets him to the outskirts of Perth.
The reader is kept guessing about what has happened to Dylan and how he intends to keep going because he is obviously suffering, physically and mentally, but interest never wanes because Nic D’Allesandro so skilfully weaves his story. Dylan is a completely sympathetic character and my mothering instincts were well and truly brought to the fore.
There are many layers to this story and one of them highlights a particular medical condition which mercilessly strikes some families and although much has been done to combat it over the years, much research is still needed to, hopefully, beat it one day and put an end to its often heartbreaking consequences.
Then there is the wild, crazy ride on which you are going to be taken as the book reaches its conclusion and from which I am still recovering! It is, honestly, so good and I hope lots of people will get to read it before the film companies start fighting each other over the movie rights.
Did I tell you I loved this book? Well, I did and I do. Congratulations, Nic D’Allesandro. 5 out of 5 stars from me.
at
The reader is kept guessing about what has happened to Dylan and how he intends to keep going because he is obviously suffering, physically and mentally, but interest never wanes because Nic D’Allesandro so skilfully weaves his story. Dylan is a completely sympathetic character and my mothering instincts were well and truly brought to the fore.
There are many layers to this story and one of them highlights a particular medical condition which mercilessly strikes some families and although much has been done to combat it over the years, much research is still needed to, hopefully, beat it one day and put an end to its often heartbreaking consequences.
Then there is the wild, crazy ride on which you are going to be taken as the book reaches its conclusion and from which I am still recovering! It is, honestly, so good and I hope lots of people will get to read it before the film companies start fighting each other over the movie rights.
Did I tell you I loved this book? Well, I did and I do. Congratulations, Nic D’Allesandro. 5 out of 5 stars from me.
at
April 26, 2023
I put my hand up for an advance copy to review - thanks to the author for mine.
Written from the point of view of the main character, Dylan, who we follow as he grows up in Australia. His life is anything but ordinary. He faces some steep problems in his family life and with his health which destroy his career dreams. But he's a determined youngster and takes off on his own to pursue other things. What he doesn't realise is, he can't outrun all of his past.
Liked the way his past, present and future are brought together - and it takes a few chapter before you fully get what's happening. And it's awesome how it all comes together at the end... I couldn't stop reading the final sequence once I'd started!
Made me think about chance, and fate, and how much control we have or dont have over our lives.
A great read. Compact, sharp, great characters. Recommended!
Written from the point of view of the main character, Dylan, who we follow as he grows up in Australia. His life is anything but ordinary. He faces some steep problems in his family life and with his health which destroy his career dreams. But he's a determined youngster and takes off on his own to pursue other things. What he doesn't realise is, he can't outrun all of his past.
Liked the way his past, present and future are brought together - and it takes a few chapter before you fully get what's happening. And it's awesome how it all comes together at the end... I couldn't stop reading the final sequence once I'd started!
Made me think about chance, and fate, and how much control we have or dont have over our lives.
A great read. Compact, sharp, great characters. Recommended!
June 15, 2023
Thank you Nic for gifting us a copy to read and review.
History can repeat itself and this can be detrimental if the event was horrific.
A fast paced action narrative where the reader is caught holding their breath.
Quite apt considering the title.
Dylan suffers an invisible but nasty disease that can literally take his breath away.
For lifesaving treatment he needs to catch a flight.
The need to breathe becomes even more urgent as a situation arises that becomes even more life threatening.
Will fate follow history.
The cover and title caught my eye and attention and the plot moved quickly through a number of time periods.
It took a minute to grasp what was happening as the time periods change but they interconnected well and the narrative jigsaw came together.
Set against an Australian backdrop with a cast of colourful characters that were easy to befriend.
The author capturing a truckie persona brilliantly as a Dylan hitches a lift with affable character, Pothole.
A quick and enjoyable read that had me drawn in as it highlights the frustrations of living with a debilitating illness.
History can repeat itself and this can be detrimental if the event was horrific.
A fast paced action narrative where the reader is caught holding their breath.
Quite apt considering the title.
Dylan suffers an invisible but nasty disease that can literally take his breath away.
For lifesaving treatment he needs to catch a flight.
The need to breathe becomes even more urgent as a situation arises that becomes even more life threatening.
Will fate follow history.
The cover and title caught my eye and attention and the plot moved quickly through a number of time periods.
It took a minute to grasp what was happening as the time periods change but they interconnected well and the narrative jigsaw came together.
Set against an Australian backdrop with a cast of colourful characters that were easy to befriend.
The author capturing a truckie persona brilliantly as a Dylan hitches a lift with affable character, Pothole.
A quick and enjoyable read that had me drawn in as it highlights the frustrations of living with a debilitating illness.
May 23, 2023
✍️ This is the first book in the Dylan Molloy Series and follows our protagonist Dylan who has found himself in Australia's outback. His life has not been easy as he struggles with family issues and an illness that may kill him if he doesn't have life saving surgery which means getting on a plane to go to the hospital. A phobia of flying due to a terrible incident will be a major factor that will make him realise that you can't shake off the past.
Suspenseful and Thrilling, "O2" had me feeling Agog and Frenzied from the start of the story and right until the end. I loved it!
The story was very Immersive and Smart and I Savoured the past, present and future tense that was conveyed and of which I was able to get a good behind the scenes feel for the story and the characters.
The more I read the more I was intrigued and curious and kept in suspense about what was going to happen next that I couldn't put it down. I finished it in one sitting. A mesmerising piece of work with a profound message of hope and survival in the midst of illness, grief and fear.
The writing style was polished and vivid and well thought through with the Authors vast knowledge of the subjects of the book.
Can't wait for book two. Highly recommend!
This will be released June 22nd.
Suspenseful and Thrilling, "O2" had me feeling Agog and Frenzied from the start of the story and right until the end. I loved it!
The story was very Immersive and Smart and I Savoured the past, present and future tense that was conveyed and of which I was able to get a good behind the scenes feel for the story and the characters.
The more I read the more I was intrigued and curious and kept in suspense about what was going to happen next that I couldn't put it down. I finished it in one sitting. A mesmerising piece of work with a profound message of hope and survival in the midst of illness, grief and fear.
The writing style was polished and vivid and well thought through with the Authors vast knowledge of the subjects of the book.
Can't wait for book two. Highly recommend!
This will be released June 22nd.
May 24, 2023
Firstly I would like to thank Nic for the opportunity to read and review an Advanced Reader Copy of his novel O2.
O2 is the first book in the Dylan Malloy Series and it was a great way to start. I found myself entertained with the development of characters, story and plot.
For me I found the story to be written like a movie playing out in my head as I read along.
Written in first person we follow Dylan's story the highlights and lowlights of his life, switching between timelines, from past and present - the switching of timelines was done fluently and not jarring at any stage.
There is a part in the book (you will know when you read it) where I couldn't put it down, I found myself reading faster than I have ever read before. This exciting part of the book explains what had me hooked at the start of this story (the 'Last line, first chapter').
I thoroughly enjoyed my time immersed in Dylan's story and I would recommend O2. I am looking forward to seeing where Book 2 takes us.
O2 is the first book in the Dylan Malloy Series and it was a great way to start. I found myself entertained with the development of characters, story and plot.
For me I found the story to be written like a movie playing out in my head as I read along.
Written in first person we follow Dylan's story the highlights and lowlights of his life, switching between timelines, from past and present - the switching of timelines was done fluently and not jarring at any stage.
There is a part in the book (you will know when you read it) where I couldn't put it down, I found myself reading faster than I have ever read before. This exciting part of the book explains what had me hooked at the start of this story (the 'Last line, first chapter').
I thoroughly enjoyed my time immersed in Dylan's story and I would recommend O2. I am looking forward to seeing where Book 2 takes us.
May 18, 2023
Dylan's dream is to become an airline pilot. So much so that he sits glued to the flight simulator hour after hour, learning everything he can about his intended career. This falls apart when his mother dies in a commercial plane crash and he develops a phobia about flying. So much so that he would rather drive or take a bus journey lasting several days if it means avoiding a flight of any kind. He heads to rural Australia, where he masters his knack for IT even though the dry and hostile environment does nothing for his persistent cough and tight chest. But what is meant to be will be. I received a free copy of this book in return for a voluntary review. 4 stars
June 4, 2023
O2 by Nic D’Alessandro was an engaging and enjoyable read for me. A troubled young man who is into flight simulators on his computer but he also refuses to fly in the real world; whether because of a phobia or traumatic event you will have to read to find out but then he is also quite an unwell person so with that thrown into the mix we have all the ingredients for a good story. And good it is but unfortunately for me not great because of the so obvious finale, there was only one way this story could end! This still doesn’t lessen the buzz I got from reading this book in double quick time.
I am a member of BookSirens and received this advance copy free in return for an honest review, now you need to go buy a copy and enjoy in the knowledge that a donation from the sale of each paperback and ebook will be donated to medical research. I won’t be more specific as to which area of research or it could be a spoiler for you.
#O2thenovel
I am a member of BookSirens and received this advance copy free in return for an honest review, now you need to go buy a copy and enjoy in the knowledge that a donation from the sale of each paperback and ebook will be donated to medical research. I won’t be more specific as to which area of research or it could be a spoiler for you.
#O2thenovel
August 1, 2023
O2 is a medical and action thriller. It is a compulsive read and a remarkably well-planned story.
The story revolves around Dylan Malloy who discovers his asthma is not as straightforward as he thought – it is a debilitating disease.
As a teenager and flying simulator enthusiast, he has had more than his fair share of personal life knocks.
Dylan’s story about his early life is not immediately told. It comes to the reader gradually through flashbacks. I had no problems following the flashbacks. It increased to the need to keep reading.
Getting a ride across the Nullabor with an old, philosophical truckie is the start of a new attitude to life.
Dylan finds an IT job in the remote north of Western Australia. He’s good at his job and well-liked but still a loner until a lady engineer, Allie, befriends him and pushes him to seek medical advice.
Dylan discovers he has Cystic Fibrosis and needs a lung transplant. However, he fears flying, and with the vast distances of Western Australia, it is his only option.
But with his ‘little friend’, an oxygen bottle, he must face his fears.
At this point, both Dylan and the reader hold their breath as the story takes a heart-stopping turn.
The Australian outback with its vivid colours, heat and colourful characters provides the backdrop to an intense story.
The tension at the end of the book is certainly screen worthy.
O2 is the first in a series about Dylan Malloy and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.
The characters are true to life, and I especially loved ‘Pothole’ the friendly truckie. The development of Dylan’s character is particularly well depicted as the reader becomes more invested in his future.
My rating 4*
A DONATION FROM EACH PAPERBACK AND EBOOK WILL BE DONATED TO CYSTIC FIBROSIS AUSTRALIA (A REGISTERED CHARITY) TO FUND SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH CYSTIC FIBROSIS AND MEDICAL RESEARCH.
Author bio
I don’t usually include an author bio in my reviews but in this case, I think it is essential to appreciate this author’s credentials.
Nic D'Alessandro: Born and bred on an island state, I write about the land, sea, sky and people. I’m fascinated by the human condition, crazy on anything that floats or flies, and passionate about the beauty and value of true wilderness.
I’m into writing character-based dramas, thrillers with depth, and stories that dig deep into what it means to be human. I enjoy a meaty theme or two, and I subtly weave contemporary issues into my books when it suits.
When I’m not writing, I earn a living as an education consultant, specialist in the aviation industry, and aerial and landscape photographer. In previous lives I’ve been a senior manager in the public sector and an educational leader in the university sector.
In my spare time I’m a keen sailor and I take to the sky in aircraft whenever I can. I obtained my pilot licence at age seventeen, and later celebrated my forties by building a full-size 737 flight simulator in my garage.
I live in Tasmania, Australia with my wife, and extended family.
The story revolves around Dylan Malloy who discovers his asthma is not as straightforward as he thought – it is a debilitating disease.
As a teenager and flying simulator enthusiast, he has had more than his fair share of personal life knocks.
Dylan’s story about his early life is not immediately told. It comes to the reader gradually through flashbacks. I had no problems following the flashbacks. It increased to the need to keep reading.
Getting a ride across the Nullabor with an old, philosophical truckie is the start of a new attitude to life.
Dylan finds an IT job in the remote north of Western Australia. He’s good at his job and well-liked but still a loner until a lady engineer, Allie, befriends him and pushes him to seek medical advice.
Dylan discovers he has Cystic Fibrosis and needs a lung transplant. However, he fears flying, and with the vast distances of Western Australia, it is his only option.
But with his ‘little friend’, an oxygen bottle, he must face his fears.
At this point, both Dylan and the reader hold their breath as the story takes a heart-stopping turn.
The Australian outback with its vivid colours, heat and colourful characters provides the backdrop to an intense story.
The tension at the end of the book is certainly screen worthy.
O2 is the first in a series about Dylan Malloy and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.
The characters are true to life, and I especially loved ‘Pothole’ the friendly truckie. The development of Dylan’s character is particularly well depicted as the reader becomes more invested in his future.
My rating 4*
A DONATION FROM EACH PAPERBACK AND EBOOK WILL BE DONATED TO CYSTIC FIBROSIS AUSTRALIA (A REGISTERED CHARITY) TO FUND SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH CYSTIC FIBROSIS AND MEDICAL RESEARCH.
Author bio
I don’t usually include an author bio in my reviews but in this case, I think it is essential to appreciate this author’s credentials.
Nic D'Alessandro: Born and bred on an island state, I write about the land, sea, sky and people. I’m fascinated by the human condition, crazy on anything that floats or flies, and passionate about the beauty and value of true wilderness.
I’m into writing character-based dramas, thrillers with depth, and stories that dig deep into what it means to be human. I enjoy a meaty theme or two, and I subtly weave contemporary issues into my books when it suits.
When I’m not writing, I earn a living as an education consultant, specialist in the aviation industry, and aerial and landscape photographer. In previous lives I’ve been a senior manager in the public sector and an educational leader in the university sector.
In my spare time I’m a keen sailor and I take to the sky in aircraft whenever I can. I obtained my pilot licence at age seventeen, and later celebrated my forties by building a full-size 737 flight simulator in my garage.
I live in Tasmania, Australia with my wife, and extended family.
April 25, 2023
At times the story felt disconnected. Interesting subject and characters are well developed. It may be about the struggles we face and the manner in which we handle them, however Dylan seems to have more, his struggles are compounded by an illness and as he pursues his passion and ignores the demons that haunt him strangers touch his life and push him toward survival.
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