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Enhanced #1
Enhanced
Zac is dragged from a mundane existence into a world of "super" humans, both good and evil. And it turns out that he's one of them. Now, with the help of Dr. Skinner and the beautiful Lea, he must hunt down and stop a band of similarly "enhanced" psychopaths -- or die trying.
This fast paced, action packed, science fiction adventure travels the globe in an adrenalin-filled race against time. From the Berkshire Downs of the UK, to New York and Africa, the tale moves from one breathtaking battle to the next.
This fast paced, action packed, science fiction adventure travels the globe in an adrenalin-filled race against time. From the Berkshire Downs of the UK, to New York and Africa, the tale moves from one breathtaking battle to the next.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
11 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Ben Brown
120 books12 followers Ben Brown was born in Reading, England. He struggled through school academically. Diagnosed with dyslexia meant being removed from class to attend ‘remedial” lessons. Ben did not enjoy reading and writing, and left school early to work with his father as a builder. It wasn’t until his mid-twenties that Ben persisted in teaching himself to read — and finally read his first novel.
Ben emigrated to Perth, Western Australia in 1990 where he now lives with his wife Michelle and two teenage children, Chelsea and Zac.
He planned his first novel each day while working as a bricklayer, to pass the hours. His love of scientific facts, futuristic possibilities, and fast-paced action infects his plots and writing style.
Ben emigrated to Perth, Western Australia in 1990 where he now lives with his wife Michelle and two teenage children, Chelsea and Zac.
He planned his first novel each day while working as a bricklayer, to pass the hours. His love of scientific facts, futuristic possibilities, and fast-paced action infects his plots and writing style.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 26, 2015
Interesting premise. Hope there is more to follow.
May 21, 2012
Most superhero stories play upon a central idea: maybe you don't have super-powers, but wouldn't it be awesome if you did? The twist in Ben Brown's tale 'Enhanced' is that you might indeed have those powers, if you possess the right kind of 'ancient DNA' and the secret to unlocking its potential. The action comes fast and furious in this story, as the protagonist Zac confronts this new truth in himself, and the reality that he must unleash these powers to save the world from others like him. The others are led by a megalomaniac named Dominic, who naturally seeks to dominate the world with his 'superiority.' Zac isn't alone. His mentors include Dominic's father, Skinner- the very savant that discovered the secret of unlocking ancient DNA. Then there is beautiful, competent Lea, another enhanced person who's powers pale in comparison to Zac's, but who's affection for the hero grows as the story progresses. Zac also has another advantage - a secret base set up by Homeland Security and the assets of the world's military elite at his disposal. Being the bad guys they are, the villains have their secret bases and technology to challenge this- along with an army of enhanced agents devoted to Dominic. As the action unwinds like the sudden release of a super-tight spring, there are a few characters that don't make it to the end of the story. Nay, that's not fair. There are quite many that don't make it to the end, and most of their deaths are quite horrible, violent, and shocking. Brown certainly doesn't shy away from the gruesome side of combat.
Overall, the story develops some interesting ideas about human potential and technology, and I found the themes concerning abandonment worked well in gluing the story together. Quite a few characters in the story wrestled with being abandoned to their fate, or not abandoning others to their fate, and the dialogue and friendship building around that theme was engaging and pulled one into the ensuing conflict. While I enjoyed reading the story and found the conclusion to be be satisfying, I do think that some improvements would be needed to raise my rating for this one. The pace goes through some wicked double-clutching on the curves, but that's to be expected with such frenetic action. The description of action is often very strong; the narrative occasionally tells rather than shows. Some of the under-villains are great, but the uber-villain seemed to remain something of a cipher- perhaps that was deliberately left for the next story to explore (and rest assured, Brown has left himself an option or two for that). To rate another star, I also think that more in-depth exploration or explanation for the origin of the ancient DNA would be needed to increase credibility. Fossil DNA does indeed exist in our cells- it is thought to be a kind of evolutionary 'parts repository' providing raw material for new genes, and it's a great idea to use it in this context. But if these genes have superior adaptive qualities, why are they now dormant? It seems to run counter to evolution. How could Zac's body perform these incredible feats if there is no evidence of such behavior in past humans or their ancestors? Perhaps all of these issues aren't too important, since most superhero stories lean towards younger adults, but the violence in this one is definitely far R, for the copious blood and gore crowd only. I think the story should entertain those that like James Bond, superhero, and combat stories. Just make sure that you hit the ground running, so you don't get left behind!
Overall, the story develops some interesting ideas about human potential and technology, and I found the themes concerning abandonment worked well in gluing the story together. Quite a few characters in the story wrestled with being abandoned to their fate, or not abandoning others to their fate, and the dialogue and friendship building around that theme was engaging and pulled one into the ensuing conflict. While I enjoyed reading the story and found the conclusion to be be satisfying, I do think that some improvements would be needed to raise my rating for this one. The pace goes through some wicked double-clutching on the curves, but that's to be expected with such frenetic action. The description of action is often very strong; the narrative occasionally tells rather than shows. Some of the under-villains are great, but the uber-villain seemed to remain something of a cipher- perhaps that was deliberately left for the next story to explore (and rest assured, Brown has left himself an option or two for that). To rate another star, I also think that more in-depth exploration or explanation for the origin of the ancient DNA would be needed to increase credibility. Fossil DNA does indeed exist in our cells- it is thought to be a kind of evolutionary 'parts repository' providing raw material for new genes, and it's a great idea to use it in this context. But if these genes have superior adaptive qualities, why are they now dormant? It seems to run counter to evolution. How could Zac's body perform these incredible feats if there is no evidence of such behavior in past humans or their ancestors? Perhaps all of these issues aren't too important, since most superhero stories lean towards younger adults, but the violence in this one is definitely far R, for the copious blood and gore crowd only. I think the story should entertain those that like James Bond, superhero, and combat stories. Just make sure that you hit the ground running, so you don't get left behind!
April 8, 2012
Zac Thomas' life is going great, until that day. Lea approached Zac on a very urgent matter. All he saw was a beautiful woman. She tried to explain why she was there. Zac just didn't understand it and with the matter being life or death, she had no choice but to drug him. When Zac woke up he was in a lab. Nervous and unsure of what was happening, he began to ask questions. The answers confused him even more. In time, Zac began to believe what Lea and Dr. Skinner told him about his body. He was special. He had abilities no other human had. They needed him to help stop Dominic. Together, the three of them, with some help from military sources, began to plan just how to beat Dominic at his own game. At stake: Super human abilities able to be transferred into other humans by injection. It could be catastrophic if evil powers were able to harness and use this. Dominic is determined to be the one who profits from helping the evil sides gain the upper hand.
AMAZING BOOK! Intrigue, futuristic, and a ten on action Richter scale, this book will keep you entertained from start to finish. It was wonderful how the abilities were just dormant in some humans. It wasn't some experiment gone wrong or explosion somewhere. They possessed these genes all along. The possibilities behind this story are something that could be possible in our children's lifetime. You'll enjoy the way this story comes together to end the war between Dominic and Dr. Skinner. This book will surprise you!
I didn't find any issues with this one.
I gave this one 5 out of 5 stars and wish it could be more.
AMAZING BOOK! Intrigue, futuristic, and a ten on action Richter scale, this book will keep you entertained from start to finish. It was wonderful how the abilities were just dormant in some humans. It wasn't some experiment gone wrong or explosion somewhere. They possessed these genes all along. The possibilities behind this story are something that could be possible in our children's lifetime. You'll enjoy the way this story comes together to end the war between Dominic and Dr. Skinner. This book will surprise you!
I didn't find any issues with this one.
I gave this one 5 out of 5 stars and wish it could be more.
April 1, 2015
Superman gets to keep his spot as the top super-hero.
Okay, that’s not entirely fair. Zac wasn’t born on Krypton and has to deal with being basically human with a few extra abilities added on. He’s faster, stronger, and heals quickly. But he can’t fly, and bullets punch holes in him instead of bouncing off.
The story, like all “super hero” stories requires some suspension of belief. You have to buy into the feasibility of the bio-technology presented by the author. However, once you do that, the story moves along quite nicely.
I like stories where the hero grows and matures. I like stories with good-looking kick-ass heroines. I hate stories where the good guys end up dead. You’ll have to read the book yourself to find out if it’s a “good” story or a “bad” story. I’m not going to give away the ending.
So, referring to the first part of the book:
It was quite a trip. Exciting at times. Plodding in a few instances, but not too many. The villain is bad enough to make you want him defeated and dangerous enough that the hero is challenged and could be defeated.
Mostly, the story moved along and kept me engaged and turning the electronic “pages”. It went by too quickly.
Note: I work for the publisher, but I can say anything I want, so take it for what it’s worth.
Okay, that’s not entirely fair. Zac wasn’t born on Krypton and has to deal with being basically human with a few extra abilities added on. He’s faster, stronger, and heals quickly. But he can’t fly, and bullets punch holes in him instead of bouncing off.
The story, like all “super hero” stories requires some suspension of belief. You have to buy into the feasibility of the bio-technology presented by the author. However, once you do that, the story moves along quite nicely.
I like stories where the hero grows and matures. I like stories with good-looking kick-ass heroines. I hate stories where the good guys end up dead. You’ll have to read the book yourself to find out if it’s a “good” story or a “bad” story. I’m not going to give away the ending.
So, referring to the first part of the book:
It was quite a trip. Exciting at times. Plodding in a few instances, but not too many. The villain is bad enough to make you want him defeated and dangerous enough that the hero is challenged and could be defeated.
Mostly, the story moved along and kept me engaged and turning the electronic “pages”. It went by too quickly.
Note: I work for the publisher, but I can say anything I want, so take it for what it’s worth.
January 11, 2013
This book is all plot and no character. Don't get me wrong, it is well plotted, action packed and the premise of the book is certainly thought provoking, but the characters lack real depth which makes the story hard to get into. Zac, the main character, lacks the angsty character flaws that help readers connect with superheros. You know, like Spiderman is a smart ass, guilt ridden kid who doesn't always want his 'great responsibility.' Zac gets kidnapped, drinks the Kool Aid, and kapow! he's amazing. He has a brief period of doubt early on, but then the plot takes over and that's it, he's just super. Zac's love interest, Lea gets even less attention.
The writing was a little unpolished, too, and confusing in some parts. I gave it a three because I liked the concept even if the execution wasn't always spot on.
The writing was a little unpolished, too, and confusing in some parts. I gave it a three because I liked the concept even if the execution wasn't always spot on.
September 18, 2014
I couldn't finish this book. It's rare that I will rate and review a book that I haven't finished but I felt this one needed it.
The premise is a good one, and could be incredibly interesting. Unfortunately, the sci-fi concept is the most believable thing about the book. The way the story line is presented and the relationships between the characters are completely unbelievable. Everything seems cliched and stilted. It's a pity as it could have been such a great book.
I didn't particularly like any of the characters and they all seem to be far too trusting and 'oh yeah, I'll do that, I'll kill people for you, I'll change my beliefs in an instant for you.' I prefer characters with a bit of backbone and something interesting about them.
The premise is a good one, and could be incredibly interesting. Unfortunately, the sci-fi concept is the most believable thing about the book. The way the story line is presented and the relationships between the characters are completely unbelievable. Everything seems cliched and stilted. It's a pity as it could have been such a great book.
I didn't particularly like any of the characters and they all seem to be far too trusting and 'oh yeah, I'll do that, I'll kill people for you, I'll change my beliefs in an instant for you.' I prefer characters with a bit of backbone and something interesting about them.
October 7, 2012
ENHANCED was definitely a fast paced, action packed novel as the book description says. I was not a fan of science fiction but wanted to broaden my reading base. This was the book to do it. It did keep my interest from start to finish and the characters were well established but sometimes the connections were I felt a bit off. It wasn’t too predictable and the only thing I did have a problem with was the villain, Dominic…I felt he was a bit too much. Overall, though it was a good read. It has pique my interest into reading a few more science fiction novel
Rating: 3
Reviewed by KellyR
Received from the publisher for an honest review by MY BOOK ADDICTION AND MORE
Rating: 3
Reviewed by KellyR
Received from the publisher for an honest review by MY BOOK ADDICTION AND MORE
February 14, 2013
If you like action books Enhanced is a story you will surely enjoy. In fact, as the book is set in present day, at times it's a bit far fetched so far as human capabilities---even enhanced special superhuman strength---can go. Mr. Bowers' detailed writing leaves little to the imagination but he does portray the emotions of his characters with a kind of singular finesse not often seen in action/science fictions stories. While spellbinding to the open adult mind, one should be aware that this is not for the faint of heart or squeamish intellect. At times the detail and violence border on the grotesque. None the less it is an excellent read for an imaginative open and inquiring mind.
January 24, 2013
Like the authors first book Pohon Setan, this too is just as as exciting. You jump in and never stop running and even forget to breathe at times. Zac may be a superhero but he still feels every bullet and you will too, the highly descriptive narrative forces you to visualise and feel everything. There is a deep sense of kindness too amid the mayhem. The temptation is to run from evil or let it overwhelm you and ordinary men too make the choice to fight for what they love most; their homes and families - just as the enhanced must.
July 2, 2015
Fun read for teen and adult readers.
I really enjoyed the story and plot. Good heroes and evil villains make for an interesting, fun easy read. Not too complicated for teens to enjoy. Free from errors, unlike most self-published books I read -- which is quite refreshing. I hate editing while I read for fun!! I think I would like to be Enhanced.
I really enjoyed the story and plot. Good heroes and evil villains make for an interesting, fun easy read. Not too complicated for teens to enjoy. Free from errors, unlike most self-published books I read -- which is quite refreshing. I hate editing while I read for fun!! I think I would like to be Enhanced.
April 1, 2015
An interesting romp of a reluctant almost-super hero. Zac runs all over the planet in his quest to stop Dominic and his gang of wreckers.
Once I got into the book (which was on the first page), I was hooked.
Once I got into the book (which was on the first page), I was hooked.
April 29, 2015
This is not my cup of tea,but it is a gutsy guy type of sci-fi which is just fine. I tend to be a bit more inclineD to have more lady/girl situations IN MY READS. ...3-4 stars for me, gutsy guys might say 4-5 stars....Just my humble opinion.CURSE/CUSS WARNING!!!!
March 4, 2015
I don't know how to describe the book. Well let's say I liked the first few chapter, I was pumped up until the author start being linear and predictable. But it's a good story, that you can read while you wait for the Bus or before sleeping.
January 14, 2013
Poorly written, full of overused tropes, this book let down its engaging premise with marginal craftsmanship
August 17, 2015
Fun and fast paced
This book was really fun to read and had an interesting take on super human abilities. I look forward to the next book.
This book was really fun to read and had an interesting take on super human abilities. I look forward to the next book.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews