What do you think?
Rate this book
Dr. Steven Archer Cross #1
Zero Sum, Entire Trilogy Bundle
Present Day Wall Street. Where intelligence agencies and the financial industry are strange bedfellows, and the two worlds are often intertwined in disturbing ways.
In this chillingly plausible, controversial scenario of a military/industrial/financial complex run amok, Zero Sum pits Dr. Steven Archer Cross against powerful financier Nicholas Griffen in a conflict that raises troubling questions about our markets and our government.
Racing against the clock in a chase that spans continents, one man's battle to expose the Machiavellian machinations of a ruthless Wall Street marauder forces him into a financial jungle populated by every variety of unscrupulous sociopath - rogue intelligence agencies, Russian mafia oligarchs, drug cartels and terrorist networks.
As a white-collar game of chess transitions into a lethal real world cage-fight, Steven finds himself in a deadly showdown, where hunters can quickly become the hunted and blood is the ultimate currency.
Zero Sum is the first novel featuring Dr. Steven Archer Cross
++++
Q & A for Zero Sum
Where did the idea for Zero Sum come from?
I thought the inside scoop of how a Wall Street pump and dump works would be a great framework for a thriller. The innate conspiracy begs to be told, and I also wanted to give some background on how the market actually functions.
Zero Sum offers readers a look behind the curtain on Wall Street's dark side. Do you think there's much of an audience for that?
With the current financial crisis & the emerging awareness that things are badly broken in the regulatory & law enforcement scheme, I think the novel's timely. Its depiction of Wall Street predators with their pet politicians, regulators & media cronies is spot on. I've found readers are fascinated once they understand it all.
Zero Sum paints a picture of Wall Street that's at odds with the sanitized image in the media. Have you gotten any flack because of it?
There's definitely a segment of the financial industry that would prefer nobody reads the book. The parasites that run the schemes described in it are alive & well & doing it every day, relying on the public's ignorance to prosper. There are some annoyed players who want this read about as much as they want a 60 Minutes crew at their office. It's a controversial story, & I'm not making any friends telling it.
Your characters seem real, especially the Wall Street villain, intelligence operatives & mob goons. Are these based in fact?
A good fiction author blends truth & fiction to the point where you aren't sure where the story starts & the facts leave off. Let's just say that the characters & scenarios that seem real, are likely that vivid & believable for a reason.
What authors do you read & which have most influenced you?
I grew up on Ludlum. Forsyth. Harris, Grisham. Fans of those authors will find my writing's similar - Bourne, Day of the Jackal, The Firm.
+ + +
Zero Sum features Dr. Steven Archer Cross, from The Voynich Cypher
In this chillingly plausible, controversial scenario of a military/industrial/financial complex run amok, Zero Sum pits Dr. Steven Archer Cross against powerful financier Nicholas Griffen in a conflict that raises troubling questions about our markets and our government.
Racing against the clock in a chase that spans continents, one man's battle to expose the Machiavellian machinations of a ruthless Wall Street marauder forces him into a financial jungle populated by every variety of unscrupulous sociopath - rogue intelligence agencies, Russian mafia oligarchs, drug cartels and terrorist networks.
As a white-collar game of chess transitions into a lethal real world cage-fight, Steven finds himself in a deadly showdown, where hunters can quickly become the hunted and blood is the ultimate currency.
Zero Sum is the first novel featuring Dr. Steven Archer Cross
++++
Q & A for Zero Sum
Where did the idea for Zero Sum come from?
I thought the inside scoop of how a Wall Street pump and dump works would be a great framework for a thriller. The innate conspiracy begs to be told, and I also wanted to give some background on how the market actually functions.
Zero Sum offers readers a look behind the curtain on Wall Street's dark side. Do you think there's much of an audience for that?
With the current financial crisis & the emerging awareness that things are badly broken in the regulatory & law enforcement scheme, I think the novel's timely. Its depiction of Wall Street predators with their pet politicians, regulators & media cronies is spot on. I've found readers are fascinated once they understand it all.
Zero Sum paints a picture of Wall Street that's at odds with the sanitized image in the media. Have you gotten any flack because of it?
There's definitely a segment of the financial industry that would prefer nobody reads the book. The parasites that run the schemes described in it are alive & well & doing it every day, relying on the public's ignorance to prosper. There are some annoyed players who want this read about as much as they want a 60 Minutes crew at their office. It's a controversial story, & I'm not making any friends telling it.
Your characters seem real, especially the Wall Street villain, intelligence operatives & mob goons. Are these based in fact?
A good fiction author blends truth & fiction to the point where you aren't sure where the story starts & the facts leave off. Let's just say that the characters & scenarios that seem real, are likely that vivid & believable for a reason.
What authors do you read & which have most influenced you?
I grew up on Ludlum. Forsyth. Harris, Grisham. Fans of those authors will find my writing's similar - Bourne, Day of the Jackal, The Firm.
+ + +
Zero Sum features Dr. Steven Archer Cross, from The Voynich Cypher
435 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2011
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 21, 2015
This is for the first in the trilogy, which is the only one I've read and on that experience I won't be going anywhere near the other two. This is rubbish and I'll explain why. The lead character is set up as a headstrong highly intelligent successful guy in his 30s who lives a fabulous life on the proceeds of the sale of his software company. Also has military experience and is a multi disciplined martial arts expert. If those two don't resemble box checking on the character archetype cliche list, then this is the book for you.
I don't want to spoil the plot, but the protagonist is a cretin who makes so many stupid mistakes throughout the book that it starts to resemble a feature length episode of Scooby Doo. Except that a lot of the idiotic mistakes he makes result in other people dying, not him. Then, cliche alert, while doing a passable impression of inspector Clouseau on a Caribbean island — did I mention he was a moron, he meets a gorgeous single Italian woman (no prizes for guessing how her "connections back home" might come into play later on!) who he implausibly manages to bed repeatedly and fall in love with. Anyway, that section of the book drags on for far too long and could easily be edited down to a couple of chapters rather than the 100+ pages it inhabits.
Y'know what, I'm going to stop now. There is evidence that Blake can write well, his characterisation and plotting are atrocious though.
I don't want to spoil the plot, but the protagonist is a cretin who makes so many stupid mistakes throughout the book that it starts to resemble a feature length episode of Scooby Doo. Except that a lot of the idiotic mistakes he makes result in other people dying, not him. Then, cliche alert, while doing a passable impression of inspector Clouseau on a Caribbean island — did I mention he was a moron, he meets a gorgeous single Italian woman (no prizes for guessing how her "connections back home" might come into play later on!) who he implausibly manages to bed repeatedly and fall in love with. Anyway, that section of the book drags on for far too long and could easily be edited down to a couple of chapters rather than the 100+ pages it inhabits.
Y'know what, I'm going to stop now. There is evidence that Blake can write well, his characterisation and plotting are atrocious though.
August 16, 2015
One of Blake's best.
Dr. Steven Archer's life is in danger.
Nicolas Griffen is the toast of Wall Street- his investment funds have made billions. He's been so successful that his funds launder dirty money for the worst organized crime syndicates from all over the world, U.S. Intelligence agencies and the Vice President of the United States.
Griffen's funds specializes in the 'pump and dump'- using false information to build a stock price to an unrealistic high, then short selling it and making a fortune when it inevitably falls. And if a lot of small time investors get hurt in the process- well, Griffen and his cohorts don't care.
Dr. Archer has figured out the method to Griffen's success, and he does care. He puts the information on the Internet for all the world to see. Archer knows he will enrage Griffen- what he doesn't know is the allies Griffen has at his disposal to fight back with.
In a short amount of time Archer's dog is beheaded in his home, Homeland Security freezes all his accounts, his father-figure and ally is murdered and his boat is blown to pieces when he was supposed to be on it.
Archer is determined to find the truth and expose Griffen, and sets of on a journey that takes him to the Carribean, South America, and Europe- with the bad guys dogging him every step of the way.
There is no gray in Zero Sum- Archer is a pure and true force of good, while Griffen exudes evil from his pores. It is a fast-paced story with plenty of surprises. The dialogue is realistic, and the stock market aspect of the story is technical but understandable. If you've read much about the shenanigans on Wall Street over the last decade Zero Sum could almost be non-fiction.
Dr. Steven Archer's life is in danger.
Nicolas Griffen is the toast of Wall Street- his investment funds have made billions. He's been so successful that his funds launder dirty money for the worst organized crime syndicates from all over the world, U.S. Intelligence agencies and the Vice President of the United States.
Griffen's funds specializes in the 'pump and dump'- using false information to build a stock price to an unrealistic high, then short selling it and making a fortune when it inevitably falls. And if a lot of small time investors get hurt in the process- well, Griffen and his cohorts don't care.
Dr. Archer has figured out the method to Griffen's success, and he does care. He puts the information on the Internet for all the world to see. Archer knows he will enrage Griffen- what he doesn't know is the allies Griffen has at his disposal to fight back with.
In a short amount of time Archer's dog is beheaded in his home, Homeland Security freezes all his accounts, his father-figure and ally is murdered and his boat is blown to pieces when he was supposed to be on it.
Archer is determined to find the truth and expose Griffen, and sets of on a journey that takes him to the Carribean, South America, and Europe- with the bad guys dogging him every step of the way.
There is no gray in Zero Sum- Archer is a pure and true force of good, while Griffen exudes evil from his pores. It is a fast-paced story with plenty of surprises. The dialogue is realistic, and the stock market aspect of the story is technical but understandable. If you've read much about the shenanigans on Wall Street over the last decade Zero Sum could almost be non-fiction.
August 3, 2015
Exciting read.
If you're interested in trading, and know the Wall Street language, Hedge funds, you'll love this book. It takes you to beautiful places, Russian, Mexican and Italian mafia, many twists and turns keeps you reading.
If you're interested in trading, and know the Wall Street language, Hedge funds, you'll love this book. It takes you to beautiful places, Russian, Mexican and Italian mafia, many twists and turns keeps you reading.
August 16, 2019
I have read some of the author's other books which were good both stylistically and told a good story. This one I thought was pretty weak. Another reviewer mentioned that it was cliche ridden. Boy Howdy!
I don't know at which point the author wrote this in his career. If early on, then he got better. If later in his career, then he got lazy. I found the main character to be uninteresting, the bad guy was really just there to be the foil and equally uninteresting.
I gave it 2 stars because I really hate giving a book 1 star since writing a novel is hard. This was more like a 1.25 stars, but I rounded up simply because, well, it did count as a book in my year challenge goal.
I don't know at which point the author wrote this in his career. If early on, then he got better. If later in his career, then he got lazy. I found the main character to be uninteresting, the bad guy was really just there to be the foil and equally uninteresting.
I gave it 2 stars because I really hate giving a book 1 star since writing a novel is hard. This was more like a 1.25 stars, but I rounded up simply because, well, it did count as a book in my year challenge goal.
December 26, 2019
Claims to be a trilogy but not sure how this story could have been broken up as all 3 were required for this story to be complete.Bored and retired Stephen discovers stock market manipulations once researched he publishes his findings online and his life is thus turned upside down. He messed with the wrong people with even "wronger" at their disposal. After several catastrophes that leaves a string of bodies , he goes on the run more determined than ever to take the perpetrators down. Feeds into so much paranoia and conspiracy theories. of course their is a sexy supermodel like woman to take the edge off...
a little Stone Barrington , Jack Reacher and Robert Langdon....
a little Stone Barrington , Jack Reacher and Robert Langdon....
July 2, 2017
A life for a life
Investments resulting in profits are key to success in big business. Big profits require elite strategies. Add dirty money and unethical investors and lives are at risk. Take the wrong life and the game begins.
Investments resulting in profits are key to success in big business. Big profits require elite strategies. Add dirty money and unethical investors and lives are at risk. Take the wrong life and the game begins.
November 17, 2020
Conspiracy at its best.
This is a great read by Mr. Blake. Gets you into it from the beginning and keeps you interested all the way through. Enjoyed the interesting characters and the play on Wall Street. Looking forward to reading the next book.
This is a great read by Mr. Blake. Gets you into it from the beginning and keeps you interested all the way through. Enjoyed the interesting characters and the play on Wall Street. Looking forward to reading the next book.
December 27, 2017
Good story told in a prose that I didn't like.
July 24, 2018
Really enjoy a good thriller and this book did not disappoint. Good read.
June 20, 2019
Good Read
I finished reading and did not want it to end. I liked the ending. I won’t ruin it for you.
I finished reading and did not want it to end. I liked the ending. I won’t ruin it for you.
August 15, 2021
Zero sum
Good book slot of picture written about beautiful country...nice love story.Bread parte about friends lives more compassion could have been given.
Good book slot of picture written about beautiful country...nice love story.Bread parte about friends lives more compassion could have been given.
October 31, 2011
Russell Blake has knocked it out of the park with his Zero Sum trilogy. He has masterfully created a high stakes, "low-intensity" conflict that spans the globe, and left me reading as fast as possible. Drawn from recent headlines, his visionary portrayal of Wall Street manipulation is brilliant, and his storyline's complicit entanglement of certain shadowy government factions is explosive.
Steven Archer just complicated his life beyond repair. By exposing the repeated pump and dump schemes of nefarious Wall Street mogul, Nicholas Griffen, he has created a lifelong enemy. Unfortunately for Archer, Nicholas Griffen would like it to be a short life, and leans on some of his less legitimate customers to take care of the task. Griffen is in over his head with his latest stock play, and if it doesn't play out right, his head could easily become detached from his body. Russian mob, La Cosa Nostra, Neo-nazi sex traffickers...take your pick, he's laundered unforgettable sums of money for all of them through his Wall Street scam. He's also in bed with Uncle Sam, providing outrageous investment returns that fund covert operations around the world. As long as Steven Archer continues to breathe, Griffen has a problem.
Archer quickly and painfully learns that the stakes are higher than he ever imagined, and goes "dark" with the help of unexpected, but very plausible sources. He plots his next move, while Griffen's forces close on in on him. What ensues is an intense cat-and-mouse chase across three continents, where the stakes increase exponentially with every turn, and Archer carefully (or so he thinks) starts to take the battle to his enemies.
Zero Sum is a classic revenge thriller that evoked a strong sense of emotional outrage followed by a deep sense of satisfaction. Exactly what I look for in a revenge scenario. What sets this book apart is the road between. It's a long, arduous path for Steven Archer, fueled by a need for redemption and revenge, which kept me rooting for the protagonist through the thick of it. This is a protagonist that takes his licks and gives them right back, "Die Hard" style...coming out a little worse for the wear at the end of each scene. I also loved the complicated relationship between Nicholas Griffen and his less than "legitimate" silent business partners. The sense of impending bodily harm was palpable every time Griffen met with Sergei. I'm not kidding...these scenes made me cringe. Russell Blake captured the essence of this character's capriciously violent nature perfectly. All of the main characters are finely crafted in a similar fashion, and left me with a solid picture and expectation of their behavior. This is one of Blake's many strong points as an author, which gets better with each novel.
Another enjoyable aspect of Zero Sum, is Blake's description of the more exotic settings. He took considerable time and effort to conjure vivid details in each locale. At first I didn't fully appreciate the effort, since I was so focused on the action and "dark" men lurking around every corner, but it finally caught up to me, and I was able to thoroughly enjoy the rich description of some amazing locations. From Cuba to a quiet Caribbean island...a bustling Buenos Aires to a picturesque seaside village in Italy. This is a trip you don't want to miss.
Russell Blake has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and like I've said before, with author's like Blake on the market, I'm slowly replacing my need to buy books from the "branded" authors, whose books seem to get worse with time. Blake's keep getting better, and more epic in scope and quality.
Steven Archer just complicated his life beyond repair. By exposing the repeated pump and dump schemes of nefarious Wall Street mogul, Nicholas Griffen, he has created a lifelong enemy. Unfortunately for Archer, Nicholas Griffen would like it to be a short life, and leans on some of his less legitimate customers to take care of the task. Griffen is in over his head with his latest stock play, and if it doesn't play out right, his head could easily become detached from his body. Russian mob, La Cosa Nostra, Neo-nazi sex traffickers...take your pick, he's laundered unforgettable sums of money for all of them through his Wall Street scam. He's also in bed with Uncle Sam, providing outrageous investment returns that fund covert operations around the world. As long as Steven Archer continues to breathe, Griffen has a problem.
Archer quickly and painfully learns that the stakes are higher than he ever imagined, and goes "dark" with the help of unexpected, but very plausible sources. He plots his next move, while Griffen's forces close on in on him. What ensues is an intense cat-and-mouse chase across three continents, where the stakes increase exponentially with every turn, and Archer carefully (or so he thinks) starts to take the battle to his enemies.
Zero Sum is a classic revenge thriller that evoked a strong sense of emotional outrage followed by a deep sense of satisfaction. Exactly what I look for in a revenge scenario. What sets this book apart is the road between. It's a long, arduous path for Steven Archer, fueled by a need for redemption and revenge, which kept me rooting for the protagonist through the thick of it. This is a protagonist that takes his licks and gives them right back, "Die Hard" style...coming out a little worse for the wear at the end of each scene. I also loved the complicated relationship between Nicholas Griffen and his less than "legitimate" silent business partners. The sense of impending bodily harm was palpable every time Griffen met with Sergei. I'm not kidding...these scenes made me cringe. Russell Blake captured the essence of this character's capriciously violent nature perfectly. All of the main characters are finely crafted in a similar fashion, and left me with a solid picture and expectation of their behavior. This is one of Blake's many strong points as an author, which gets better with each novel.
Another enjoyable aspect of Zero Sum, is Blake's description of the more exotic settings. He took considerable time and effort to conjure vivid details in each locale. At first I didn't fully appreciate the effort, since I was so focused on the action and "dark" men lurking around every corner, but it finally caught up to me, and I was able to thoroughly enjoy the rich description of some amazing locations. From Cuba to a quiet Caribbean island...a bustling Buenos Aires to a picturesque seaside village in Italy. This is a trip you don't want to miss.
Russell Blake has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and like I've said before, with author's like Blake on the market, I'm slowly replacing my need to buy books from the "branded" authors, whose books seem to get worse with time. Blake's keep getting better, and more epic in scope and quality.
January 20, 2012
Book 1: Kotov Syndrome
Do you remember Stephen Cross from The Voynich Cypher, which was reviewed on March 14th? Well, he's back. Sort of. He's not Cross yet, and Kotov Syndrome is actually part of a series that came before The Voynich Cypher, but the Zero Sum trilogy gives you Stephen's background. Though you don't need this trilogy to read the newer Stephen Cross book, it's nice to have the full details of how he got to where he is.
Zero Sum, Book 1: Kotov Syndrome is typical of Blake's style. It's a fast-paced, edgy, thrilling, action-packed, suspenseful read. Stephen takes on a Wall Street mogul, not understanding the bigger picture, and thrusts his life and those of whom he loves into a world of corruption, deceit, and violence. Stephen soon finds out just how much money can buy and that corruption knows no bounds.
Another great Blake story to keep you on the edge of your seat, that also examines our society and multiple systems in it, as he asks the questions that need asking. Blake will always entertain you while he creates a world that requires you to open your mind to the very possibility of "Could it be true?"
Book 2: Focal Point
Enter Antonia. Sigh, reading a series out of order definitely takes a little something away. You meet a character that you already know what the outcome will be for them. But Shhhh, I'm not telling and neither should you. Let those who haven't read out of order have their story in its entirety.
Typical of the mid-section of a trilogy, Zero Sum, Book 2: Focal Point takes a slight step back from the high-paced action of the first book and puts its energy into building the story.
At the end of book 1 Stephen has vowed to continue with his battle against Griffen, in part to exact revenge for the losses that Stephen has suffered at Griffen's command. However, in order to do that Stephen has to find out more about Griffen and just how he has the power to inflict so much harm in Stephen's world.
Let the globe trotting begin, as Stephen sets out on his journey to discover the truth behind Griffen and his illegal activities.
Book 3: Checkmate
The action is back! As I've already said, Blake never disappoints in his stories. Even during book 2, the reader is highly entertain while the story builds around Stephen's investigation. However, we all want the story to end on a high note, enter the action!
Luckily for readers looking into the Zero Sum trilogy now, the books are sold as a bundle or as one book in its entirety. So you'll get the benefit of buying one and getting to read all the way through the 3 all at once. Trust me, you'll be thankful it is so.
A third book (Checkmate) in a trilogy is difficult to review, because you really sum up the story as this is by definition the story's conclusion. However, I can say Blake will not disappoint you. You will be enthralled and will enjoy the twists that are still to come. He will keep you on the edge of your seat with action and suspense as Stephen looks for a way to use what he now knows to take down Griffen.
Stephen's membership in The Group will come into play a bit more. Which is fantastic as they are such an intriguing collection of people and personalities. It was fascinating to learn a bit more about them as well.
So, find some free time, sit down with Zero Sum and plan to have your day swept away as you plunge into the world of Stephen, Wall Street, the government, the crime lords, and an action-packed adventure.
*Disclosure: I received this book for free in exchange for a review*
Do you remember Stephen Cross from The Voynich Cypher, which was reviewed on March 14th? Well, he's back. Sort of. He's not Cross yet, and Kotov Syndrome is actually part of a series that came before The Voynich Cypher, but the Zero Sum trilogy gives you Stephen's background. Though you don't need this trilogy to read the newer Stephen Cross book, it's nice to have the full details of how he got to where he is.
Zero Sum, Book 1: Kotov Syndrome is typical of Blake's style. It's a fast-paced, edgy, thrilling, action-packed, suspenseful read. Stephen takes on a Wall Street mogul, not understanding the bigger picture, and thrusts his life and those of whom he loves into a world of corruption, deceit, and violence. Stephen soon finds out just how much money can buy and that corruption knows no bounds.
Another great Blake story to keep you on the edge of your seat, that also examines our society and multiple systems in it, as he asks the questions that need asking. Blake will always entertain you while he creates a world that requires you to open your mind to the very possibility of "Could it be true?"
Book 2: Focal Point
Enter Antonia. Sigh, reading a series out of order definitely takes a little something away. You meet a character that you already know what the outcome will be for them. But Shhhh, I'm not telling and neither should you. Let those who haven't read out of order have their story in its entirety.
Typical of the mid-section of a trilogy, Zero Sum, Book 2: Focal Point takes a slight step back from the high-paced action of the first book and puts its energy into building the story.
At the end of book 1 Stephen has vowed to continue with his battle against Griffen, in part to exact revenge for the losses that Stephen has suffered at Griffen's command. However, in order to do that Stephen has to find out more about Griffen and just how he has the power to inflict so much harm in Stephen's world.
Let the globe trotting begin, as Stephen sets out on his journey to discover the truth behind Griffen and his illegal activities.
Book 3: Checkmate
The action is back! As I've already said, Blake never disappoints in his stories. Even during book 2, the reader is highly entertain while the story builds around Stephen's investigation. However, we all want the story to end on a high note, enter the action!
Luckily for readers looking into the Zero Sum trilogy now, the books are sold as a bundle or as one book in its entirety. So you'll get the benefit of buying one and getting to read all the way through the 3 all at once. Trust me, you'll be thankful it is so.
A third book (Checkmate) in a trilogy is difficult to review, because you really sum up the story as this is by definition the story's conclusion. However, I can say Blake will not disappoint you. You will be enthralled and will enjoy the twists that are still to come. He will keep you on the edge of your seat with action and suspense as Stephen looks for a way to use what he now knows to take down Griffen.
Stephen's membership in The Group will come into play a bit more. Which is fantastic as they are such an intriguing collection of people and personalities. It was fascinating to learn a bit more about them as well.
So, find some free time, sit down with Zero Sum and plan to have your day swept away as you plunge into the world of Stephen, Wall Street, the government, the crime lords, and an action-packed adventure.
*Disclosure: I received this book for free in exchange for a review*
March 15, 2012
A timely Wall Street thriller
I ‘met’ Russell via the medium of Twitter and downloaded the first part of the Zero Sum Trilogy for free during one of his promos. I had no idea what I was getting into!
Quick intro: our hero, Dr Stephen Archer, spots strange behaviour around a particular companies stock - sudden announcements, followed by a share price rise and a flood of stock sales. Known as pump and dump’, this practice is supposed to be illegal, but it’s obviously not illegal enough.
So Stephen decides to unmask the company and the investment fund behind the artificial share price rises and sets up a whistle-blowing website. Unbeknownst to him, investors in the group include the Mafia, Russians and the CIA. And, while he’s careful, he’s not careful enough and they track him down. This is just the beginning of the story which sees him do his best to drop off the grid and go on a global adventure without getting anyone killed, while doing his best to expose the whole thing.
I found the story very readable - meaning I got sucked in and had to know what happened. It’s a scary look at the people who manipulate the stock market to their own ends and, in light of the financial disaster of the last few years, a bit worrying. The characters were believable (for the most part) and were appealing enough to gain my empathy.
The only annoyance I had was the fact Russell made this a trilogy; it didn’t feel like a trilogy to me, more like a book that had been broken into three parts (and I bought the last two parts). Perhaps that’s why it’s now available as a single Kindle volume.
Still it’s an entertaining read and worth a look, if only to see how market forces can be manipulated to the benefit of a few and the detriment of the rest.
I ‘met’ Russell via the medium of Twitter and downloaded the first part of the Zero Sum Trilogy for free during one of his promos. I had no idea what I was getting into!
Quick intro: our hero, Dr Stephen Archer, spots strange behaviour around a particular companies stock - sudden announcements, followed by a share price rise and a flood of stock sales. Known as pump and dump’, this practice is supposed to be illegal, but it’s obviously not illegal enough.
So Stephen decides to unmask the company and the investment fund behind the artificial share price rises and sets up a whistle-blowing website. Unbeknownst to him, investors in the group include the Mafia, Russians and the CIA. And, while he’s careful, he’s not careful enough and they track him down. This is just the beginning of the story which sees him do his best to drop off the grid and go on a global adventure without getting anyone killed, while doing his best to expose the whole thing.
I found the story very readable - meaning I got sucked in and had to know what happened. It’s a scary look at the people who manipulate the stock market to their own ends and, in light of the financial disaster of the last few years, a bit worrying. The characters were believable (for the most part) and were appealing enough to gain my empathy.
The only annoyance I had was the fact Russell made this a trilogy; it didn’t feel like a trilogy to me, more like a book that had been broken into three parts (and I bought the last two parts). Perhaps that’s why it’s now available as a single Kindle volume.
Still it’s an entertaining read and worth a look, if only to see how market forces can be manipulated to the benefit of a few and the detriment of the rest.
November 24, 2011
This review is for the entire Trilogy - Zero Sum Books 1 - 3 Kotov Syndrome
Russell Blake's Zero Sum - Kotov Syndrome Trilogy is truly amazing. I initially downloaded Book 1 because it was free and before I was done I had purchased the Book 2 & 3 bundle. This is my first time reading a book from Russell Blake and I felt privileged to have found a book written so intelligently with such a powerful impact.
Nicolas Griffen is a character that you will grow to despise. A Wall Street financier associated with organized crime and government agencies using the stock market to make huge amounts of money to the detriment of others. Dr. Steven Archer is determined to stop this activity by publishing a website to expose Griffen and his associates for what they really are. When he is discovered to be the owner of the website life is forever changed as he is now the target to be destroyed.
This trilogy will take you on a extremely fast paced and unexpected roller coaster ride of the fight between good and evil. Zero Sum is an addicting complex thriller that you will not be able to put down. I highly recommend this book, it is writing at it's best.
I look forward to reading more from Russell Blake.
Marilou George
Russell Blake's Zero Sum - Kotov Syndrome Trilogy is truly amazing. I initially downloaded Book 1 because it was free and before I was done I had purchased the Book 2 & 3 bundle. This is my first time reading a book from Russell Blake and I felt privileged to have found a book written so intelligently with such a powerful impact.
Nicolas Griffen is a character that you will grow to despise. A Wall Street financier associated with organized crime and government agencies using the stock market to make huge amounts of money to the detriment of others. Dr. Steven Archer is determined to stop this activity by publishing a website to expose Griffen and his associates for what they really are. When he is discovered to be the owner of the website life is forever changed as he is now the target to be destroyed.
This trilogy will take you on a extremely fast paced and unexpected roller coaster ride of the fight between good and evil. Zero Sum is an addicting complex thriller that you will not be able to put down. I highly recommend this book, it is writing at it's best.
I look forward to reading more from Russell Blake.
Marilou George
October 18, 2013
Anothe on point story from Russell Blake. He is quickly becoming a fav of mine. His stories are insightful about what is going on in the world today. Wake up n smell the Kool Aid people. This shit is for real. This story follws Dr. Steven Archers quest to bring down a Wall Street criminal who has a history of manipulating the stock market. Big bad Mr Griffen has the sanction of the Us Govermemt up to the highest levels to control,manipulate and basically steal money from average joes to fund and wash all sorts of international criminal activity. He is rich powerful and convinced he is invinsible until Dr A turns the tide and puts him and the financial fund he runs under the microscope. Dr. A uses the internet too his advantage with the help of some crazy hacker geniuses aka the three horseman X Files style. Murder and mayhem insue. Dr. A flees the US to pursue the truth and bring furthermevidence to light to drop on Griffens game.
All around another example of Russell Blake ability to pull you in and set a fairly blistering pace of action and plot development. in a world kf so many ediocore story tellers he has a fresh ability to write compelling characters. Check out his Jet series if you want some futher examples of his talent.
All around another example of Russell Blake ability to pull you in and set a fairly blistering pace of action and plot development. in a world kf so many ediocore story tellers he has a fresh ability to write compelling characters. Check out his Jet series if you want some futher examples of his talent.
September 21, 2012
Russell Blake is one damn good writer. "Zero Sum" is one of the best action/thrillers I've ever picked up. From the first few pages, be ready to lock and load as Steven Archer takes on a Wall Street manipulator and begins a terrifying journey filled with danger, death and double-crosses that would make Robert Ludlum cringe. Blake propels the story through three separate phases that ultimately end with.... well, let's not give anything away. Suffice it to say that Archer, who 'becomes' Steven Cross out of necessity, along with some techno-dweeb pals, an Italian centerfold and some other, more mysterious allies take on the nefarious Nicholas Griffen to ultimately unseat the financier and wreak havoc on his shady dealings. What's particularly nice is that Blake explains his antics along the way with a remarkable clarity and doesn't bog you down in Clancyish techno-babble. It makes the story flow more smoothly and Blake's way with words paints a veritable tapestry that gives even more life to an already-exciting yarn. "Zero Sum" is an amazing book and the only thing I don't understand is why I haven't heard everyone talking about it. Keep it up, Russell. You're on the right track.
May 3, 2016
The book started off as a solid “3 stars” only to deteriorate rather rapidly. Before I go any further, I must admit that I stopped reading after I’d gone through the first half, so there’s always a chance that the second half turned into a fantastic piece or literature, the chance is VERY slim but it’s there, nonetheless :)
In a nutshell, our protagonist is a handsome, wealthy, 30-something dude with a PhD degree and mastery of martial arts + a hefty military background. Our bad guy is this one-sided unscrupulous Wall Street player with strong links to Russian mobsters, Ecuadorian cartel and he is backed up by shady US intelligence organisations.
Can it possibly get more clichéd?
Yes it can, actually, as our protagonist soon manages to bed this gorgeous filthy rich woman and the romance description, which is worthy of Danielle Steel, drags on forever.
The book is just bad, I strongly recommend that you avoid it at all costs and only attempt to read it if you manage to find a copy that someone else has thrown out in disgust - spending money on it is just ungodly.
In a nutshell, our protagonist is a handsome, wealthy, 30-something dude with a PhD degree and mastery of martial arts + a hefty military background. Our bad guy is this one-sided unscrupulous Wall Street player with strong links to Russian mobsters, Ecuadorian cartel and he is backed up by shady US intelligence organisations.
Can it possibly get more clichéd?
Yes it can, actually, as our protagonist soon manages to bed this gorgeous filthy rich woman and the romance description, which is worthy of Danielle Steel, drags on forever.
The book is just bad, I strongly recommend that you avoid it at all costs and only attempt to read it if you manage to find a copy that someone else has thrown out in disgust - spending money on it is just ungodly.
December 4, 2011
This bundle of 2 books continues the story that began in the first Zero Sum book. I wouldn't recommend trying to read these two without first reading #1, because it lays the basis for this story of Wall Street intrigue and a revenge play that takes you to international cities, through the machinations of a Wall Street trader, Nicholas Griffen, and his cronies - evil people all.
This is the first story in which Blake shows his romantic skills. His hero, Steven Archer, quickly and deeply falls in love with Antonia, a fact that greatly enriches his character.
Driven to take down the bad guy, a narcissistic sociopath who targets Steven as soon as he figures out he's driving the cyber war on his financial fund's reputation, Archer must escape multiple attempts on his life and at the same time continue to sabotage Griffen.
You can't go wrong with this trilogy. It will keep you hanging on every twist and turn, and rooting for Archer and Antonia.
This is the first story in which Blake shows his romantic skills. His hero, Steven Archer, quickly and deeply falls in love with Antonia, a fact that greatly enriches his character.
Driven to take down the bad guy, a narcissistic sociopath who targets Steven as soon as he figures out he's driving the cyber war on his financial fund's reputation, Archer must escape multiple attempts on his life and at the same time continue to sabotage Griffen.
You can't go wrong with this trilogy. It will keep you hanging on every twist and turn, and rooting for Archer and Antonia.
April 2, 2012
Financial thrills
This is a very decent financial thriller. This is a boring thing to say about an indie book but it could easily have been put out by a large publishing house.
It is very well edited.
Part one is a decent start to the story
The financial stuff has been well handled by the author. It all makes sense
and it isn't just a sideshow before you get onto the action. The whole scenario seems pretty plausible
Part two is a bit slow going in many respects. Not much really happens. It is a fairly easy and enjoyable read but there is too much of a lull between action scenes and the hero is a bit too passive. However I did quite like reading it.
The book picks up considerably in part three. There were several good action scenes. Again the financial stuff all seemed to make sense and in general it was plausible and realistic.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the Zero Sum trilogy and in particular it was good to read a financial thriller that seemed to be seriously researched.
This is a very decent financial thriller. This is a boring thing to say about an indie book but it could easily have been put out by a large publishing house.
It is very well edited.
Part one is a decent start to the story
The financial stuff has been well handled by the author. It all makes sense
and it isn't just a sideshow before you get onto the action. The whole scenario seems pretty plausible
Part two is a bit slow going in many respects. Not much really happens. It is a fairly easy and enjoyable read but there is too much of a lull between action scenes and the hero is a bit too passive. However I did quite like reading it.
The book picks up considerably in part three. There were several good action scenes. Again the financial stuff all seemed to make sense and in general it was plausible and realistic.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the Zero Sum trilogy and in particular it was good to read a financial thriller that seemed to be seriously researched.
March 31, 2014
This review is for the Zero Sum Trilogy. I read book one of the Trilogy without realizing there were more books in the series. I was unhappy that book one ended without a resolution - only directions to the next book. Out of disgust, I wrote off the book until I found the entire series available for free for Amazon Prime members. Hooray for Amazon. Since book one was so good, I re-evaluated and got the series.
I have now read the last 2 books of the trilogy and have reassessed the trilogy. My initial 4 star review has been lowered to 3 stars. The book devolved into a shallow romance story with repetitive bits happening as Stephen (whatever his last name at the time) and Antonia flitting from country to country. I lost my interest in the story which is unfortunate. I have read Russell Blake books before and have thought much better of his writing. Personally, I would not recommend this overly long shallow plot book set.
I have now read the last 2 books of the trilogy and have reassessed the trilogy. My initial 4 star review has been lowered to 3 stars. The book devolved into a shallow romance story with repetitive bits happening as Stephen (whatever his last name at the time) and Antonia flitting from country to country. I lost my interest in the story which is unfortunate. I have read Russell Blake books before and have thought much better of his writing. Personally, I would not recommend this overly long shallow plot book set.
December 22, 2011
If you like your thrillers reality-based and chock full of action, Russell Blake's your man. The Zero Sum trilogy provides a devastatingly detailed portrayal of the pump and dump Wall Street stock scams, the players behind those scams, and the far-ranging consequences one man endures when he threatens a key Wall Street manipulator. Another reviewer described the books as a classic battle between David and Goliath, and I agree.
The action is fast-paced, the characters painfully flawed in their choices, the story-line far too close to reality for many an investment banker or government official. Settle in and prepare to be both entertained and educated when you read the Zero Sum trilogy. Blake is an author who easily walks the bright line between reality and fiction, leaving you wondering where truth ends and the story begins.
The action is fast-paced, the characters painfully flawed in their choices, the story-line far too close to reality for many an investment banker or government official. Settle in and prepare to be both entertained and educated when you read the Zero Sum trilogy. Blake is an author who easily walks the bright line between reality and fiction, leaving you wondering where truth ends and the story begins.
January 15, 2013
When Steven Archer starts a website to expose a Wall Street bigwig as a fraud and thief, he gets more than he bargained for. He finds his bank account frozen and is then hunted by government agencies and mafia assassins from the US through central and south America. A friend then sets him up with a new identity and he goes to Italy.
Meanwhile, some tech-savvy friends of Steven's, known as The Group, maintain his website and continue to post incriminating articles on the Wall Street dealer.
This is a great fast-paced story that keeps you wondering what will happen next. It's also an interesting behind the scenes look at the workings on Wall Street. I think I actually learned a few things along the way. Interesting characters and a steady change of locations and scenarios. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of Russell Blake's work.
Meanwhile, some tech-savvy friends of Steven's, known as The Group, maintain his website and continue to post incriminating articles on the Wall Street dealer.
This is a great fast-paced story that keeps you wondering what will happen next. It's also an interesting behind the scenes look at the workings on Wall Street. I think I actually learned a few things along the way. Interesting characters and a steady change of locations and scenarios. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of Russell Blake's work.
May 10, 2014
I've read almost all Russell Blake's books, but hadn't read this one. I'd kind of discounted it as an over my head financial story. Boy was I wrong. It was easy to read, and even though I'm not familiar with all the stock market lingo, the author did a great job of filling me in without slowing the book down or confusing me.
The main character is very likeable, and is in a situation that he created which keeps getting worse, but because he's headstrong he doesn't back down, and that propels the story forward.
To my surprise there was also a very passionate love story included. This ended up being one of my favorite Blake books. Highly recommend!
The main character is very likeable, and is in a situation that he created which keeps getting worse, but because he's headstrong he doesn't back down, and that propels the story forward.
To my surprise there was also a very passionate love story included. This ended up being one of my favorite Blake books. Highly recommend!
October 7, 2011
If you think the conspiracy in The Geronimo Breach was believable, wait until you read the layers of conspiracy in this trilogy. Book 1 contains a lot of information that you will need to appreciate the three stories. Some of this must be true. The stories are sheer fun with Blake's usual does of conspiracy, violence and murder. To this he adds finance and - wait for it! - romance! He does it well too.
A must read. But get the three together as they follow one another perfectly.
A must read. But get the three together as they follow one another perfectly.
December 9, 2014
A good tale of one man's battle against the head of a big and dirty investment fund. He sets up a web page that exposes the nefarious dealings and finds himself chased and threatened, injured and almost killed, his dog and friends killed, hunted by Homeland security and falling for an Italian beauty and head of a travel magazine before the ending. Blake pens some good books if you like action/adventure/intrigue.
March 24, 2015
Really liked this book. All three stories are good and where one stopped, it continued on in the next one. They flowed really well, and definitely makes you wonder about Wall Street. Steven is kind of a strange character, and yet, he's understandable in a long about way. Sometimes makes you think he has no feelings, but his true character shows up in a hurry. And so does the action! Which I expected from this author. All around great read and makes ME wonder what took so long to get to it!
August 4, 2015
Normally, if I see that a book is about Wall Street, I will pass on it. I do not know what a "put" is or what it means to sell short. But I am a fan of the author so, what are you going to do? Steven Archer knows all that lingo and he knows when he is being taken for a ride. The further he investigates, the worse it gets. The book is separated into 3 parts and this really helped to organize it and keep it from getting too confusing. Very entertaining read!
March 16, 2012
Another home run for Russell Blake. I'm glad I was able to read this to clear up some things about Steven Cross's history (from The Voynich Cypher). This was another heart-pounding thriller and I'm going to be sad when I run out of Russell Blake books to read.
May 7, 2012
Pretty good. It didn't get too mushy and the details were decent. I like the cat and mouse game, and the main character never got too comfortable in any location and as always met with some sort of attack. Great ending!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews