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Circumference of Darkness
This electrifying debut thriller delivers a gripping tale of Big Brother gone mad amid a modern world on the verge of endless war. Brimming with high-powered suspense, here is the brilliant, frighteningly believable story of three masterminds locked on a breathtaking collision cours—the outcome of which will determine the fate of the United States.
Circumference of Darkness
Twenty-two-year-old Jeannie Reese is a computer wunderkind—and the top architect of next-generation security for the Department of Defense. Her latest brainchild is IRIN, the most powerful surveillance technology ever developed. To date, IRIN has remained ultraclassified and inactive. But on the day a shocking act of terrorism strikes U.S. shores, the presidential order comes to launch Jeannie’s creation against the dark forces behind the attack.
Known only as Phr33k, forty-one-year-old John Fagan is a legendary, reclusive computer hacker. For years he has expertly hidden himself while operating freely within the shadows of the Internet’s background noise. He has remained in complete seclusion despite his infamy as the author of a slew of massive electronic crimes—and despite his long-ago, now eerily prophetic, scenarios of terrorist warfare against America.
Under Jeannie’s direction, IRIN gathers and analyzes endless data—and unearths Phr33k. If she is to stop the next stage of a terror campaign clearly begun years before, Jeannie will have to find the überhacker; but that is only the beginning. For she soon discovers that Phr33k is being held by the leader of a vast terrorist network, who now plans to use this unique genius to conceive and deliver his final, fatal a devastating nationwide wave of unparalleled destruction.
For his part, Phr33k is used to working alone. But all that will have to change.
He has a new challenge, one unlike any he’s faced how to provide Jeannie Reese with one outrageous, impossible shot to short-circuit the perfect, unstoppable scheme he so masterfully—and so unwillingly—helped to create.
Circumference of Darkness
Twenty-two-year-old Jeannie Reese is a computer wunderkind—and the top architect of next-generation security for the Department of Defense. Her latest brainchild is IRIN, the most powerful surveillance technology ever developed. To date, IRIN has remained ultraclassified and inactive. But on the day a shocking act of terrorism strikes U.S. shores, the presidential order comes to launch Jeannie’s creation against the dark forces behind the attack.
Known only as Phr33k, forty-one-year-old John Fagan is a legendary, reclusive computer hacker. For years he has expertly hidden himself while operating freely within the shadows of the Internet’s background noise. He has remained in complete seclusion despite his infamy as the author of a slew of massive electronic crimes—and despite his long-ago, now eerily prophetic, scenarios of terrorist warfare against America.
Under Jeannie’s direction, IRIN gathers and analyzes endless data—and unearths Phr33k. If she is to stop the next stage of a terror campaign clearly begun years before, Jeannie will have to find the überhacker; but that is only the beginning. For she soon discovers that Phr33k is being held by the leader of a vast terrorist network, who now plans to use this unique genius to conceive and deliver his final, fatal a devastating nationwide wave of unparalleled destruction.
For his part, Phr33k is used to working alone. But all that will have to change.
He has a new challenge, one unlike any he’s faced how to provide Jeannie Reese with one outrageous, impossible shot to short-circuit the perfect, unstoppable scheme he so masterfully—and so unwillingly—helped to create.
528 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2007
12 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 5, 2012
Jack Henderson wrote a book, about one of the most iconic terrorist attacks in history, and bastardised it into fiction whilst shoe-horning liberal doses of paranoia and conspiracy into a tight plot and slightly obscured attack on American foreign policy. Probably not surprising then that no publisher would touch it, even in a country that prides itself on freedom of speech.
So Henderson self published it - on the internet. Long story short, the book was so phenomenally successful in its relatively tiny format that someone sat up and took notice - leading to the eventual publishing of the novel in actual paper and ink format.
And its a cracking book - split roughly into three (no not the start, middle and end smartass) the book takes place over weeks, and feels like it takes place in hours. The cover suggests its like "24 meets Tom Clancy" and whilst it maintains the pace and tension eponymous of 24 there are no stand Clancy plot devices here - the novel lurches unpredictably from start to finish.
A book that's easy to pick up and impossible to put down, Maximum Impact is a great book and better than 90% of the paperbacks in the bestseller charts that didn't need to struggle anywhere near as much to get published.
July 7, 2008
this is a solid little thriller. it's getting hard for me to give those above 3 stars anymore since the genre tends to be fairly derivative. but for a present-day, political intrigue and zealot-happy book, this was pretty good. i enjoyed the tie-in to real terrorist events, and the book has pretty strong character development considering the genre, as well.
that leads to one of the few downsides, such as they are. even as they were slightly different, the characters all felt cliched, in a way: intelligent, misunderstood girl; intelligent, misunderstood guy; gay sidekick; masculine, sacrificial lamb. the only good part i can say about all that is there was no one hero, and one of the hero-types dies.
the first 50 pages are so are somewhat uneven overall. in fact, my only other complaint was the penchant for monologuing. it happens early on, then a few more times. but overall, the writing is fairly tight, and the plot turns kept me turning. :)
that leads to one of the few downsides, such as they are. even as they were slightly different, the characters all felt cliched, in a way: intelligent, misunderstood girl; intelligent, misunderstood guy; gay sidekick; masculine, sacrificial lamb. the only good part i can say about all that is there was no one hero, and one of the hero-types dies.
the first 50 pages are so are somewhat uneven overall. in fact, my only other complaint was the penchant for monologuing. it happens early on, then a few more times. but overall, the writing is fairly tight, and the plot turns kept me turning. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2010
Really exciting book, centred on a couple of super-brainy geeks, some crazy computer programs, lots of action, and a plot for overthrowing the government. What's not to like? :)
There are various techie references thrown into the narrative which I appreciated, although I did note a few minor mistakes. (How many compilers create a Windows executable which contain the text of source code comments, for example?) The mistakes were not a big deal at all though.
For me, Henderson's writing style is easy and enjoyable to engage with, and the characters are expressed very well. I felt myself relating to them and building up a real sense of who they were.
A great read for geeks, nerds, and anybody who likes a bit of action and intrigue.
There are various techie references thrown into the narrative which I appreciated, although I did note a few minor mistakes. (How many compilers create a Windows executable which contain the text of source code comments, for example?) The mistakes were not a big deal at all though.
For me, Henderson's writing style is easy and enjoyable to engage with, and the characters are expressed very well. I felt myself relating to them and building up a real sense of who they were.
A great read for geeks, nerds, and anybody who likes a bit of action and intrigue.
June 21, 2010
Conspiracy theory plot - I liked how he weaved a wild scenario around 9/11 and it's (heretofore unknown) aftermath.
Tech jargon - Of course it's all computer/internet/AI programs and the jargon gets a little overwhelming sometimes.
Character development - The main two characters I liked, but the development was somewhat forced and awkward. Romance was awkward, but that kind of fit their personalities...
Continuity - abrupt leaps in POV and time that were confusing
Overall - for a debut novel, this was pretty good. As a thriller, up until the climax, there were only small bits of action and suspense.
Tech jargon - Of course it's all computer/internet/AI programs and the jargon gets a little overwhelming sometimes.
Character development - The main two characters I liked, but the development was somewhat forced and awkward. Romance was awkward, but that kind of fit their personalities...
Continuity - abrupt leaps in POV and time that were confusing
Overall - for a debut novel, this was pretty good. As a thriller, up until the climax, there were only small bits of action and suspense.
March 2, 2010
An excellent read.very fast moving and great for a techie like me :)
Slightly dated in a few technical details but fun nevertheless.
The ending feels a bit contrived but the overall plot is superb.
Best part was that I had mailed Jack about a quote he used in the book and he actually mailed me back in a day. Now that's taking care of your fans :)
highly recommended if you love fast moving action thrillers
DJ
Slightly dated in a few technical details but fun nevertheless.
The ending feels a bit contrived but the overall plot is superb.
Best part was that I had mailed Jack about a quote he used in the book and he actually mailed me back in a day. Now that's taking care of your fans :)
highly recommended if you love fast moving action thrillers
DJ
April 6, 2008
Gripping thriller. I loved the tie-ins with computer technology and the mad rants of the ultra right religious fanatic.I remember Clancy's scenario where a plane hits the Pentagon and takes out enough people to wherein his protagonist becomes Prez.
This book also stirs memories of De Mille's Wildfire.
This book also stirs memories of De Mille's Wildfire.
February 26, 2025
A great first novel by Jack Henderson that was full of action, surprises and romance. There were a lot of details in the book that probably took the author a lot of time to research and figure out. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thrillers with twists and turns, a book that you cannot put down until you are finished with it.
June 17, 2013
Shades of "Wag the Dog"! I loved the characters and the plot in this story. Home-grown terrorists are just as crazy as foreign-born terrorists and just as dangerous. I loved the computer interaction and Kate's persona was spot on for an AI. There is room for more in this world so I hope I get to read them.
Read
September 30, 2010If you like "24", you will definitely like this quick,explosive reading. There is no dull moment in this suspenseful book. Hope you all like it. Personal suggestion, read it at the cold miserable rainy night so you will be wrapped in a heat of the greatest adventure.
January 1, 2016
Exciting thriller, rather reminiscent of a season of 24, and it was nice to have a hero who's a geek. I'm not techy enough to understand all of it, but it didn't matter. I just wish he told us what happened to the dog!
July 12, 2007
good fast nerdy book to read. couldnt put it down.
January 3, 2011
brilliant thriller
November 30, 2018
Amazing thriller debut from Jack Henderson, this story roughly follows the premise set up by John Carlin in his famous 1997 article "A Farewell to Arms", which was since also adapted by the Die Hard franchise (Live Free or Die Hard).
The book is exceedingly entertaining and despite being on the longer side given the genre, it's impossible to put down. There is only one downside and that's the fairly black & white portrayal of the main characters but otherwise it's well researched and stays close to reality, making it a bit scarier - especially if you're familiar with the topic.
The book is exceedingly entertaining and despite being on the longer side given the genre, it's impossible to put down. There is only one downside and that's the fairly black & white portrayal of the main characters but otherwise it's well researched and stays close to reality, making it a bit scarier - especially if you're familiar with the topic.
February 3, 2018
I don't read a lot of thrillers, so I'm not sure what's average for the genre, but this seemed like it qualifies. there's a good amount of technical jargon in it, it took a solid 100 pages to get into the story. the action was great, the relationships, not so much. I get tired of the brilliant and unbelievably attractive female character. plus there were some convenient writing ploys used to open up relationships. but there were conversations that made me laugh, so bonus points for that.
October 24, 2017
Circumference of Darkness by Jack Henderson is a real page turner that will keep you engaged until the end. It is based on events of the September 11th terrorist attack in NYC, with some amazing fictional additions. There is a heavy dose of Big Brother watching you and an incredible cast of characters, many of whom are cyber wunderkinds. Enjoy the ride!
July 6, 2019
Nice. Though gets a little stuffy around 3/4ths into the story.
December 25, 2021
I loved it. I read it under the title maximum impact.
January 9, 2024
Entertalning read. Lots of computer tech jargon...plot not nearly beyond the realm of possibility?
November 28, 2025
I so much enjoyed this book! All the way until part III.... What type of Caesar salad was that?
December 20, 2014
Is the sexy/super-genius early twenties that is super tough yet virginal/sexually naive a trope? Because I've read examples of this character in at least three books other than this one. And did she have to become attracted to an overweight nerd old enough to be here dad? Especially less than 3 days after her boyfriend was killed, in a suicide mission to rescue said nerd. Its just that you wouldn't have it the other way round would you. Either a handsome fit young man attracted to a fat 50-ish women. Or a Sheldon form Big Ban theory getting it off with an Angelina Jolie type so why is OK the other way round? Sorry to go on but it really bothered me for some reason. Perhaps because her boyfriend professed his love in his last message and went ahead with the mission knowing he would die.
Main plot wise, OK I guess. The idea that 9/11 was inspired by internet chatter in the early 90's and a 'super' terrorist attack is planned by a coalition of terror groups, and a bunch of hackers and a US agent have to work together to stop it, especially the CGI fake news reports. The book starts of well, but drags in the middle and the ending seems a bit messy. Things prop up like Jeannie (super sexy agent) was a result of her parents selecting the best sperm and egg donors for some kind of super genius and taken to work for government when she is about 10, comes up and is forgotten as for some reason she was sexually abused by her dad seems just thrown in. As is the main hacker genius John Fagan (fat 50 nerd) being bullied by his dad, that made him able to stand up to torture, oh and reading about. I bet Navy Seals and the SAS are taught to resist torture by a reading about it. As a action thriller is your thing it you might like it, but there are much better reads.
Main plot wise, OK I guess. The idea that 9/11 was inspired by internet chatter in the early 90's and a 'super' terrorist attack is planned by a coalition of terror groups, and a bunch of hackers and a US agent have to work together to stop it, especially the CGI fake news reports. The book starts of well, but drags in the middle and the ending seems a bit messy. Things prop up like Jeannie (super sexy agent) was a result of her parents selecting the best sperm and egg donors for some kind of super genius and taken to work for government when she is about 10, comes up and is forgotten as for some reason she was sexually abused by her dad seems just thrown in. As is the main hacker genius John Fagan (fat 50 nerd) being bullied by his dad, that made him able to stand up to torture, oh and reading about. I bet Navy Seals and the SAS are taught to resist torture by a reading about it. As a action thriller is your thing it you might like it, but there are much better reads.
June 13, 2013
Maximum Impact is a great thriller built around the 9/11 attacks.
Henderson present a thriller which weaves an interesting conspiracy around the events of September 11 with enough twists to keep the reader interested.
The book is split into 3 parts of which I enjoyed the first part the most with the introduction of the characters and the hints of the greater conspiracy about to unfold. The middle part was a little slow for my liking.
I actually liked the last part too where most of the action took place and whilst reading it i was happy enough with the events taking place. However, in retrospect the events of this last part seemed incredibly unlikely and were not as satisfying as I would have liked.
Still I thoroughly enjoyed the thrill ride!
Henderson present a thriller which weaves an interesting conspiracy around the events of September 11 with enough twists to keep the reader interested.
The book is split into 3 parts of which I enjoyed the first part the most with the introduction of the characters and the hints of the greater conspiracy about to unfold. The middle part was a little slow for my liking.
I actually liked the last part too where most of the action took place and whilst reading it i was happy enough with the events taking place. However, in retrospect the events of this last part seemed incredibly unlikely and were not as satisfying as I would have liked.
Still I thoroughly enjoyed the thrill ride!
September 10, 2016
What if, in the aftermath of the horror of 9/11, you find out it was meant to be a lot bigger, and the people behind were still intent on seeing the bigger plan carried out.
A plan that started out as an idle thought in a hacker forum becomes reality, and it becomes an almost impossible chase against time to thwart them. But it seems to be an impenetrable plan, how can they possibly succeed?
Very exciting, lots of techy geekery (if a little dated now), deducting a star for the cliché romance shoe horned in between the hottie tech genius and her Navy SEAL bodyguard. Other than that I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
A plan that started out as an idle thought in a hacker forum becomes reality, and it becomes an almost impossible chase against time to thwart them. But it seems to be an impenetrable plan, how can they possibly succeed?
Very exciting, lots of techy geekery (if a little dated now), deducting a star for the cliché romance shoe horned in between the hottie tech genius and her Navy SEAL bodyguard. Other than that I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
April 17, 2013
This book really entertained for two thirds of the way, then got a bit jumbled up. A little old in the techie parts, but all one had to do was go back in time. There were so many times during the book when I thought this author wrote this book just for my liking.
I was in the thriller section of the library and almost gave up searching for a book, and for some reason the jacket caught my attention, so I took it out on a whim. Glad for it.
I was in the thriller section of the library and almost gave up searching for a book, and for some reason the jacket caught my attention, so I took it out on a whim. Glad for it.
October 7, 2015
This book was just brilliant, I don't often say that, but it had everything - it had modern relevance, it had early internet references, it had a mixture of amazing characters very well drawn, it had drama, it had twists, it had evil lurking in the shadows, it had tense situations, it had sacrifice, it had survival, it had tearjerkers and cheer-jerkers, it had everything all in one tightly-paced novel.
Absolutely recommended, six stars!
Absolutely recommended, six stars!
July 17, 2012
A gripping book for two thirds of it's length, it loses focus near the end ad the author makes the plot far too complicated. If the last third was as good as the first two this really would have been a book of pure brilliance. In the end it's a good thriller which was obviously painstakingly researched by the author. Worth the read.
January 28, 2016
Airport thriller plot, good pacing, cheesy dialogue - just the kind of book that'll keep you hooked if you're on a journey and not too worried about why people are doing what they're doing.
If they haven't made a movie/tv miniseries out of this, watch out, 'cos I'm sure it's got to be coming!
If they haven't made a movie/tv miniseries out of this, watch out, 'cos I'm sure it's got to be coming!
September 21, 2010
This is a book about a smart woman, skilled hacker, and some evil people that give you many actions and the next thing you know it is over. It is over soon because it's exciting to follow the action.
February 9, 2012
Great read this. Like others who have reviewed this book, some of the technical details went way over my head but didn't detract from what is a great fast paced story. Really enjoyed reading this, the authors debut novel & will now hunt down other titles.
May 11, 2013
It was pretty good!!! I loved this book. I gave it four stars because it is hard for me to understand. And with the swear words, it seemed like the story was more realistic with people swearing all the time when bad things happen XD Thats what I thought!! Anyway, it was a good book
August 11, 2009
Not a bad novel, very high tech with some funny dialoge & characters. Some of the technological aspects lost me, but overall the book did enough to hold my interest..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews