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Velocity
Strap in for the ride of your life as Velocity blasts off at mach speed. From NASA's Cape Canaveral to the Central Australian desert, screenwriter Steve Worlands' debut thriller sets a heart-stopping pace in a perfect blend of action, adventure and thrills.
The Man - an astronaut who has lost his mojo
The Mission - to seek and destroy a hijacked space shuttle
The Cargo - enough weapons-grade Uranium-235 to irradiate Manhattan
The Stakes - the woman he loves and the fate of a city
The Man - an astronaut who has lost his mojo
The Mission - to seek and destroy a hijacked space shuttle
The Cargo - enough weapons-grade Uranium-235 to irradiate Manhattan
The Stakes - the woman he loves and the fate of a city
353 pages, Paperback
First published August 22, 2012
4 people are currently reading
731 people want to read
About the author
Steve Worland
3 books35 followersSteve Worland has worked extensively in film and television in Australia and the USA. He has written scripts for Working Title and Icon Productions, worked in script development for James Cameron’s Lightstorm and wrote Fox Searchlight’s Bootmen, which won five Australian Film Institute awards.
Steve also wrote the action-comedy telemovie Hard Knox, the bible and episodes of the television series Big Sky and the Saturn award-winning Farscape. The family film Paper Planes, which he co-wrote, will be released worldwide in 2015. His novelisation of the screenplay will be released at the same time.
He is the author of the action-adventure novels Velocity, Combustion and Quick and is currently writing his fourth book.
Steve also wrote the action-comedy telemovie Hard Knox, the bible and episodes of the television series Big Sky and the Saturn award-winning Farscape. The family film Paper Planes, which he co-wrote, will be released worldwide in 2015. His novelisation of the screenplay will be released at the same time.
He is the author of the action-adventure novels Velocity, Combustion and Quick and is currently writing his fourth book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 4, 2012
I wasn't sure what to expect from Velocity but it's endorsed by Hugh Jackman and that's good enough for me!
Having lost his nerve after witnessing the death of his best friend in the explosion that destroyed the Columbia, NASA astronaut Judson Bell realises, when he crashes the simulated space shuttle, Discovery for the third time, that he won't ever make it back into space. When the Atlantis is cleared for a the next mission, Judd's newly ex girlfriend and fellow astronaut, Rhonda, is named as the pilot and Judd is assigned to the White Room for the first launch test. What begins as an uncomfortable situation for the pair spirals wildly out of control when the unthinkable happens and the shuttle is hijacked by a Frenchman and ex pop star.
I have to admit I was a little confused when I began reading, not sure how the events and characters in the first few chapters could possibly fit together but as the story unfolds, Worland brings it together masterfully. The plot centers around the stolen space shuttle, Henri's nefarious plans for it and Judd's desperate desire to rescue Rhonda from them. As the boffins at Cape Canaveral scramble to find the Atlantis Judd essentially stumbles across it in the Australian outback where he was sent after the incident to oversee the reactivation of a satellite tracker. With the reluctant help of Corey, an eccentric Aussie chopper pilot (and his dog, Spike), Judd takes on this group of mercenaries to discover if he can be in fact a steely-eyed missile man and save the day. There are some unexpected twists as traitors and allies emerge from the unlikeliest of places.
Velocity reminds me of a Nicholas Cage action movie, particularly ConAir, with it's mix of explosive aerial action, quirky, dry humour and flawed but courageous heroes. It's not a surprise really given Worland is a screenwriter and as such his style of writing creates scenes that are easy to visualise. Velocity contains its fair share of barely plausible incidents but it's easy to dismiss the unlikely in favour of the convincing effects and just enough credible detail.
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the characters of Velocity. Judd is an interesting, atypical hero. His devotion to Rhonda may be excessive, especially given her casual treatment of him, but it provides a convincing motivation for his actions. Despite the overwhelming odds Judd never gave up fidning unexpected reserves of strength and savvy. My favourite character was Corey whose quick thinking, prodigious flying skills and laconic attitude to missile attacks earnt my admiration. His chats with Spike raised a smile every time and I could almost hear the music score as he swooped in driving a herd of cattle at the taxiing Galaxy. Even the villains had an odd appeal with an ex pop star turned merc, Kelvin's crisis of conscience and Dirk's frustration with Judd.
In Velocity, fast paced action and intrigue is accompanied by humor and heart with a touch of romance (because the hero always gets his girl). An exciting, funny and quick read, I've gifted Velocity to my dad for Father's Day and I have no doubt he will enjoy it.
PS. I'm not sure if Worland (and Penguin) intended the the trailer for Velocity to be amusing but it is, with it's very American film voice over and toy shuttle it's totally worth watching... especially after you have read the book.
September 25, 2023
4.5 stars
Fast paced and action-packed. Loved it!
Look forward to the next instalment.
Listened to the audiobook on BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda audio
Narrated by Sean Mangan
Duration: 9 hrs, 43 min. 1.50x Speed
Fast paced and action-packed. Loved it!
Look forward to the next instalment.
Listened to the audiobook on BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda audio
Narrated by Sean Mangan
Duration: 9 hrs, 43 min. 1.50x Speed
August 23, 2012
Judd Bell used to have it all. He was the top of his game as an astronaut, the man of the moment. And he had a beautiful, smart girlfriend named Rhonda who worked along side of him at NASA. There was no denying that Judd Bell was going places.
But then the space shuttle Columbia is lost, taking with it Judd’s best friend and the man of the moment loses his mojo. His career is suddenly going in a downward spiral, not rising up through the roof and it’s Rhonda that is rising. When she is chosen to pilot a new mission in space, Judd knows that things between them have changed. She’s different now, and he doesn’t know how to fix it.
As the space shuttle Atlantis is preparing for take off, the unthinkable happens – the shuttle is highjacked by an advanced team of terrorists and completely taken over. The high level of skill, funding and even luck required to be able to pull off such a thing is baffling and no one can believe that it has actually taken place. A space shuttle, stolen off the launch pad – it’s unbelievable. This could be the end of the space exploration program, the end of everything if they don’t get that space shuttle back and prevent whatever it is the terrorists want to use it for.
But to Judd, that’s all secondary – what he cares about is the fact that Rhonda is strapped into that space shuttle and is little more than a pawn in a terrorist’s game. If they pull off their mission, there is no way the love of his life will come back alive and Judd knows he can’t let that happen. Frustrated about being sent to Central Australia to gain access to a satelite dish receiving data after the terrorists destroyed valuable ones for collecting flight tracking data in the take off, Judd is suddenly shocked to realise that he could just have inadvertently ended up right in the thick of things. A space shuttle gone blind in the night…..might not be so untraceable after all.
But Judd is going to have to overcome some problems if he wants to stop the terrorists and save not only Rhonda, but the world as well. For starters, he’s alone in the unforgiving Australian desert with nothing more than a crazy helicopter pilot who talks to his cattle dog for company and back-up. And Judd also has that little problem of his confidence….
Velocity is a heart-stopping new thriller from first time Australian author, Steve Worland. Having previously worked in film and television, Worland has now turned his talents to novel writing and the result is a fast-paced, action packed story that takes a reader on a pretty wild ride! We start with Judd Bell on top of his game, knowing he’s at the top of his game and that his life couldn’t be any more perfect. He’s an astronaut on the way up, he’s got a fantastic girlfriend, he’s the man. All of that changes when space shuttle Columbia breaks up upon re-entry to Earth’s orbit and Judd is crippled by grief and also, doubt. All of a sudden he’s making mistakes, he’s struggling with simple SIM exercises and chances are, he’s not going into space when Atlantis is cleared for its mission. Not only that, but his relationship with Rhonda is suffering greatly. Judd’s lack of confidence has caused him to become needy and Rhonda is not in a position to be able to shore him up and deal with that neediness.
When Atlantis is high-jacked and Rhonda along with it, Judd’s focus is getting her back. The fact that he also needs to stop what the terrorists have planned is in his mind, but his thoughts are primarily for Rhonda. At times I did question whether or not Rhonda deserved such devotion from Judd – she was quite rough on him in terms of his state of mind and unable to really want to deal with a boyfriend that was no longer the man of the minute. I felt that I didn’t quite get a good enough handle on the good times of their relationship to really appreciate the depth of Judd’s feeling and desperation to save her.
But apart from that, this book was really fun! I don’t really like action movies so much because I am the person who always criticises the lack of plausibility but for some reason, I don’t seem to have that issue when I am reading books. I think that Worland really thought out the possibilities of actually high-jacking a shuttle, what it would take, how long it would take, the sort of skills that would need to be involved and that shows in the writing. So many things are covered, so much planning and meticulous detail and this continues throughout the story when Judd is sent to Central Australia and what he discovers there. I know that Worland is Australian, so it’s not surprising to see our country playing a large role in the plot but I do always get a kick out of seeing Australia featured in a global story as an important part! I also really came to like Corey, the rather ‘different’ Australian helicopter pilot that assists Judd, and his dog Spike. At first I wasn’t quite sure about them – but I think the amusing dialogue combined with Corey’s relaxed manner and skill as a pilot won me over.
Worland is currently writing a sequel to Velocity which will be released next year from Penguin AU and I’ll definitely keep reading. If you are fond of expansive terrorist plots, explosions, gun battles, stunt flying and the battle of good vs evil then you’ll find lots to enjoy in this book. It makes a great story to read in one sitting.
But then the space shuttle Columbia is lost, taking with it Judd’s best friend and the man of the moment loses his mojo. His career is suddenly going in a downward spiral, not rising up through the roof and it’s Rhonda that is rising. When she is chosen to pilot a new mission in space, Judd knows that things between them have changed. She’s different now, and he doesn’t know how to fix it.
As the space shuttle Atlantis is preparing for take off, the unthinkable happens – the shuttle is highjacked by an advanced team of terrorists and completely taken over. The high level of skill, funding and even luck required to be able to pull off such a thing is baffling and no one can believe that it has actually taken place. A space shuttle, stolen off the launch pad – it’s unbelievable. This could be the end of the space exploration program, the end of everything if they don’t get that space shuttle back and prevent whatever it is the terrorists want to use it for.
But to Judd, that’s all secondary – what he cares about is the fact that Rhonda is strapped into that space shuttle and is little more than a pawn in a terrorist’s game. If they pull off their mission, there is no way the love of his life will come back alive and Judd knows he can’t let that happen. Frustrated about being sent to Central Australia to gain access to a satelite dish receiving data after the terrorists destroyed valuable ones for collecting flight tracking data in the take off, Judd is suddenly shocked to realise that he could just have inadvertently ended up right in the thick of things. A space shuttle gone blind in the night…..might not be so untraceable after all.
But Judd is going to have to overcome some problems if he wants to stop the terrorists and save not only Rhonda, but the world as well. For starters, he’s alone in the unforgiving Australian desert with nothing more than a crazy helicopter pilot who talks to his cattle dog for company and back-up. And Judd also has that little problem of his confidence….
Velocity is a heart-stopping new thriller from first time Australian author, Steve Worland. Having previously worked in film and television, Worland has now turned his talents to novel writing and the result is a fast-paced, action packed story that takes a reader on a pretty wild ride! We start with Judd Bell on top of his game, knowing he’s at the top of his game and that his life couldn’t be any more perfect. He’s an astronaut on the way up, he’s got a fantastic girlfriend, he’s the man. All of that changes when space shuttle Columbia breaks up upon re-entry to Earth’s orbit and Judd is crippled by grief and also, doubt. All of a sudden he’s making mistakes, he’s struggling with simple SIM exercises and chances are, he’s not going into space when Atlantis is cleared for its mission. Not only that, but his relationship with Rhonda is suffering greatly. Judd’s lack of confidence has caused him to become needy and Rhonda is not in a position to be able to shore him up and deal with that neediness.
When Atlantis is high-jacked and Rhonda along with it, Judd’s focus is getting her back. The fact that he also needs to stop what the terrorists have planned is in his mind, but his thoughts are primarily for Rhonda. At times I did question whether or not Rhonda deserved such devotion from Judd – she was quite rough on him in terms of his state of mind and unable to really want to deal with a boyfriend that was no longer the man of the minute. I felt that I didn’t quite get a good enough handle on the good times of their relationship to really appreciate the depth of Judd’s feeling and desperation to save her.
But apart from that, this book was really fun! I don’t really like action movies so much because I am the person who always criticises the lack of plausibility but for some reason, I don’t seem to have that issue when I am reading books. I think that Worland really thought out the possibilities of actually high-jacking a shuttle, what it would take, how long it would take, the sort of skills that would need to be involved and that shows in the writing. So many things are covered, so much planning and meticulous detail and this continues throughout the story when Judd is sent to Central Australia and what he discovers there. I know that Worland is Australian, so it’s not surprising to see our country playing a large role in the plot but I do always get a kick out of seeing Australia featured in a global story as an important part! I also really came to like Corey, the rather ‘different’ Australian helicopter pilot that assists Judd, and his dog Spike. At first I wasn’t quite sure about them – but I think the amusing dialogue combined with Corey’s relaxed manner and skill as a pilot won me over.
Worland is currently writing a sequel to Velocity which will be released next year from Penguin AU and I’ll definitely keep reading. If you are fond of expansive terrorist plots, explosions, gun battles, stunt flying and the battle of good vs evil then you’ll find lots to enjoy in this book. It makes a great story to read in one sitting.
September 24, 2013
Whenever there is a new thriller author on the block, especially if they are Australian, there is always someone drawing a comparison to Matthew Reilly. You can just about guarantee that this comparison will be drawn by someone who hasn't read Matthew Reilly's books or hasn't read the new author's book/s. Finally there is an author with whom this comparison is valid.
Well worth the read.
Well worth the read.
September 30, 2013
Before I dive into this review, I have a little story to tell about this book. I was looking for something to read last month and I came across this book on my "To Read" list. So I grab my Nook and go to download it. But it's not available! And I hate it when that happens. For some reason, I see it as a challenge ... OH, you don't want me to read this book, Barnes & Noble?!? Well, guess what, I'm totally going to use my Kindle app then!! That will show B & N!
Read about how I finally was able to read Velocity at http://littlemissbookmark.blogspot.com/
Okay, all of that being said ... I am going to give a completely honest opinion of the book. My interaction with Worland and my love of Bootmen will not sway my thoughts or feelings on the book at all. It totally should, though. Bootmen kicks butt.
So ... diving in ... Velocity took me a bit by surprise. I don't know what I was expecting but it definitely wasn't what I encountered on that first page. Reading a new (to me) author, I try to go in with an open mind ... no prejudgements or expectations. You get thrown into the story right away. There's no ... meet this character or here's some background info. No, you are right there in the middle of things immediately. And while it felt like being pushed into the deep end, I found it pretty refreshing.
You don't know from one paragraph to the next what the end result is going to be with Velocity. Just when you think you know what is going on or whose side someone is on ... oh, no you don't. You're wrong. I grew attached to a few of the characters pretty early in the book ... I don't know why ... but there was this one bad guy that I was actually rooting for when he met an untimely demise. That was a bit shocking. I had to put the book down for the rest of the day on that one. And the kicker is that he wasn't even this super important character! I think it may be because Worland writes these ... lifelike ... characters.
I really found myself getting wrapped up in this book. It reads like a movie and by that, I mean that it reads in such an explosive and animated way that it's really brought to life as you read. The main character is named Judd and I have to read more about him. Man, is he messed up. Such a perfectly flawed character and I can't wait to see what he gets into in the next installment.
So why didn't this awesome novel get five stars, you may be asking. Well, first of all, this is an amazing book. I'll definitely read it again and I'll be reading the remainder of the series. It only fell short because the first couple of chapters were a bit confusing with all of the technicalities of all this equipment that was being used and the large number of characters in the beginning ... there were quite a few and I did have a hard time keeping up with them. Was the book hard to understand? No. With all of the info that was given, you would think that it would read like a manual but it doesn't, it was just a little overwhelming at first.
But that's it. A great read - especially if you like the whole astronaut/pilot/military-esque book. Which I happen to love. I thought that I was going to have a huge hole in my future library where these types of books reside because on of my top 3 favorite authors passed away this year ... Vince Flynn. But it looks like Worland novels will fit right in. Sigh. Such a good book!!
Read about how I finally was able to read Velocity at http://littlemissbookmark.blogspot.com/
Okay, all of that being said ... I am going to give a completely honest opinion of the book. My interaction with Worland and my love of Bootmen will not sway my thoughts or feelings on the book at all. It totally should, though. Bootmen kicks butt.
So ... diving in ... Velocity took me a bit by surprise. I don't know what I was expecting but it definitely wasn't what I encountered on that first page. Reading a new (to me) author, I try to go in with an open mind ... no prejudgements or expectations. You get thrown into the story right away. There's no ... meet this character or here's some background info. No, you are right there in the middle of things immediately. And while it felt like being pushed into the deep end, I found it pretty refreshing.
You don't know from one paragraph to the next what the end result is going to be with Velocity. Just when you think you know what is going on or whose side someone is on ... oh, no you don't. You're wrong. I grew attached to a few of the characters pretty early in the book ... I don't know why ... but there was this one bad guy that I was actually rooting for when he met an untimely demise. That was a bit shocking. I had to put the book down for the rest of the day on that one. And the kicker is that he wasn't even this super important character! I think it may be because Worland writes these ... lifelike ... characters.
I really found myself getting wrapped up in this book. It reads like a movie and by that, I mean that it reads in such an explosive and animated way that it's really brought to life as you read. The main character is named Judd and I have to read more about him. Man, is he messed up. Such a perfectly flawed character and I can't wait to see what he gets into in the next installment.
So why didn't this awesome novel get five stars, you may be asking. Well, first of all, this is an amazing book. I'll definitely read it again and I'll be reading the remainder of the series. It only fell short because the first couple of chapters were a bit confusing with all of the technicalities of all this equipment that was being used and the large number of characters in the beginning ... there were quite a few and I did have a hard time keeping up with them. Was the book hard to understand? No. With all of the info that was given, you would think that it would read like a manual but it doesn't, it was just a little overwhelming at first.
But that's it. A great read - especially if you like the whole astronaut/pilot/military-esque book. Which I happen to love. I thought that I was going to have a huge hole in my future library where these types of books reside because on of my top 3 favorite authors passed away this year ... Vince Flynn. But it looks like Worland novels will fit right in. Sigh. Such a good book!!
July 18, 2013
VELOCITY is big on action - a non stop joyride from NASA headquarters to the barren landscape of central Australia where theft knows no bounds and a burning desire for vengeance reins supreme.
Astronaut Judd Bell is plagued by his insecurities and haunted by the untimely loss of a close friend. His crippling dependency on workplace romance turned live-in partner, Rhonda is unhealthy - not only driving him to distraction but driving away the one thing that holds the fabric of his existence together. Somehow, author Steve Worland creates a hero from a mere shell, turning this wayward astronaut into an accidental hero.
When a space shuttle is stolen by a group of highly organised and well funded individuals, Judd's world falls apart. Not only does he confront death up and personal, Rhonda is aboard the shuttle and headed for parts unknown. Still reeling from a violent encounter with some colourful bad guys, Judd finds himself deported to the Northern Territory and teamed with the humorous and distinctly outback bloke Corey - a tourist pilot with a penchant for high speed, high skill flying.
The duo take it upon themselves to retrieve the shuttle and return its cargo to safety - a feat neither had thought capable. Unfortunately for Judd and Corey, nothing is simple with each attempt and rescuing Rhonda thwarted time and time again - ever drawing closer that blood thirsty reaper.
What I really like about VELOCITY is that the reason behind theft of an aircraft and space shuttle isn't apparent up front. It takes time for the conspiracy theory and twisted rationale to filter through. Exemplifying Judd's plight is the danger not only Rhonda faces as a captive but mankind should the group succeed in achieving their goal. Worland does a great job at instilling a sense of urgency to this novel.
Fans of Matthew Reilly will enjoy VELOCITY, yet Judd is no Scarecrow. He's not some special ops, beefed up marine with a near perfect ability to kick ass and take names. He's a deeply flawed yet endearing character who grows throughout the novel. Not the sort of protagonist typical to this genre - refreshing to read.
I highly recommend VELOCITY and will be delving into Worlands' next book COMBUSTION very soon.
This review originally appeared on my blog: http://justaguythatlikes2read.blogspo...
Astronaut Judd Bell is plagued by his insecurities and haunted by the untimely loss of a close friend. His crippling dependency on workplace romance turned live-in partner, Rhonda is unhealthy - not only driving him to distraction but driving away the one thing that holds the fabric of his existence together. Somehow, author Steve Worland creates a hero from a mere shell, turning this wayward astronaut into an accidental hero.
When a space shuttle is stolen by a group of highly organised and well funded individuals, Judd's world falls apart. Not only does he confront death up and personal, Rhonda is aboard the shuttle and headed for parts unknown. Still reeling from a violent encounter with some colourful bad guys, Judd finds himself deported to the Northern Territory and teamed with the humorous and distinctly outback bloke Corey - a tourist pilot with a penchant for high speed, high skill flying.
The duo take it upon themselves to retrieve the shuttle and return its cargo to safety - a feat neither had thought capable. Unfortunately for Judd and Corey, nothing is simple with each attempt and rescuing Rhonda thwarted time and time again - ever drawing closer that blood thirsty reaper.
What I really like about VELOCITY is that the reason behind theft of an aircraft and space shuttle isn't apparent up front. It takes time for the conspiracy theory and twisted rationale to filter through. Exemplifying Judd's plight is the danger not only Rhonda faces as a captive but mankind should the group succeed in achieving their goal. Worland does a great job at instilling a sense of urgency to this novel.
Fans of Matthew Reilly will enjoy VELOCITY, yet Judd is no Scarecrow. He's not some special ops, beefed up marine with a near perfect ability to kick ass and take names. He's a deeply flawed yet endearing character who grows throughout the novel. Not the sort of protagonist typical to this genre - refreshing to read.
I highly recommend VELOCITY and will be delving into Worlands' next book COMBUSTION very soon.
This review originally appeared on my blog: http://justaguythatlikes2read.blogspo...
March 20, 2014
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I regret that I didn't read this book sooner! And this NEEDS to be made into a movie, cause it's the perfect action movie! It's jampacked with excitement from the beginning, it's funny, it's dangerous, it even includes love - And it takes you to the extreme.
The book is mainly about thirty year-old astronaut Judd Bell, and in the beginning of the book he witnesses his best friend die in the explosion of the Columbia, and he and his girlfriend and colleague Rhonda break up. He's insecure, and she stares straight ahead, and she wants to be first on Mars, so she works hard. She is assigned to be pilot on the Atlantis, while Judd is in the white room. But then the aircraft is hijacked, and Judd has to save his love.
The whole thing is really exciting, and is really hard to put down - even for me who would never think this ''genre'' would be my thing. It is excellently written, but at the same time not hard to read. Worland really has talent.
There was also a sneak peek at Combustion, his other book, and that seems pretty good too.
I would recommend this to anyone who is more fan of movies rather than books, cause this really is a true Hollywood action movie ready to be made.
I regret that I didn't read this book sooner! And this NEEDS to be made into a movie, cause it's the perfect action movie! It's jampacked with excitement from the beginning, it's funny, it's dangerous, it even includes love - And it takes you to the extreme.
The book is mainly about thirty year-old astronaut Judd Bell, and in the beginning of the book he witnesses his best friend die in the explosion of the Columbia, and he and his girlfriend and colleague Rhonda break up. He's insecure, and she stares straight ahead, and she wants to be first on Mars, so she works hard. She is assigned to be pilot on the Atlantis, while Judd is in the white room. But then the aircraft is hijacked, and Judd has to save his love.
The whole thing is really exciting, and is really hard to put down - even for me who would never think this ''genre'' would be my thing. It is excellently written, but at the same time not hard to read. Worland really has talent.
There was also a sneak peek at Combustion, his other book, and that seems pretty good too.
I would recommend this to anyone who is more fan of movies rather than books, cause this really is a true Hollywood action movie ready to be made.
April 17, 2013
My giveaway copy already arrive.
When I read all the reviews, I was a little surprised. Just 10 reviews! Only 10? Why? It's a great book with proper research. Did anyone else read Velocity?
I don't ask to those teens who adores YA. Yes, they wrote the most reviews. But they read and praised the worst books I ever read. I'm asking this to all adult readers who love suspense, thriller, or any similar genre. Come on, it's really worth reading. It's what I call 'book that informed you some knowledge'.
And I kept thinking how cool is Judd's occupation and imagine all the place described in this book while reading it.
I admit that I have difficulties in reading this book, because my english sucks. And I know nothing about aeronautica (is that correct? Aeronautica?).
When I read all the reviews, I was a little surprised. Just 10 reviews! Only 10? Why? It's a great book with proper research. Did anyone else read Velocity?
I don't ask to those teens who adores YA. Yes, they wrote the most reviews. But they read and praised the worst books I ever read. I'm asking this to all adult readers who love suspense, thriller, or any similar genre. Come on, it's really worth reading. It's what I call 'book that informed you some knowledge'.
And I kept thinking how cool is Judd's occupation and imagine all the place described in this book while reading it.
I admit that I have difficulties in reading this book, because my english sucks. And I know nothing about aeronautica (is that correct? Aeronautica?).
October 6, 2013
You never know from one minute to the next how things will work out as the author takes you on a hair raising ride in Velocity with some humor thrown in to lighten the situation. Our 2 protagonists and Spike the dog are saved several times by very believable simple solutions from what often look like no way out moments.
A quick and entertaining read ending with a cliff hanger lol.
Combustion here I come :-)
A quick and entertaining read ending with a cliff hanger lol.
Combustion here I come :-)
August 29, 2012
I always enjoy a good adventure/thriller/action read and this book as it all. Boring people will say "oh that can't happen" but it's fiction and with fiction anything can happen. That's what I like about this book. It's easy to read and totally enjoyable.
October 28, 2013
Loved it, and that Sean Mangan, I just love his reading.
May 30, 2017
Wow what an exciting novel. I cant wait to read the next installment.
Judd Bell an astronaut who has flown just one mission and if he makes anymore mistakes, he's not likely to fly any more missions. His marriage has its ups and downs and he's starting to think there is more to the downs in his marriage. Throw in a conspiracy theory or five and this makes for an interesting read.
Then the story quickly moves to central Australia and we meet Corey, a down trodded and down on his luck helicopter pilot with only his dog Spike as his friend and confidante.
This story has twists and turns and absolutely so well written i couldnt put it down. The ending was brilliant.....dont just believe me, read it for yourself!
One of the best reads I've read in a long time.
Judd Bell an astronaut who has flown just one mission and if he makes anymore mistakes, he's not likely to fly any more missions. His marriage has its ups and downs and he's starting to think there is more to the downs in his marriage. Throw in a conspiracy theory or five and this makes for an interesting read.
Then the story quickly moves to central Australia and we meet Corey, a down trodded and down on his luck helicopter pilot with only his dog Spike as his friend and confidante.
This story has twists and turns and absolutely so well written i couldnt put it down. The ending was brilliant.....dont just believe me, read it for yourself!
One of the best reads I've read in a long time.
December 27, 2018
Ridiculous garbage
January 4, 2021
Judd and Cory's adventure from the frying pan to the fire to the volcano and then into black hole and back.. Quite a refreshing time pass
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2014
I had such high hopes for this thriller. The promo ads caught my eye. This book and Combustion by the same author looked very action packed!
But for several reason I was a little disappointed:
a. The hero (Judson Bell) cried too much for me to consider him an as action figure.....it was actually a bit awkward at times. I mean, did John McClane cry in Die Hard? Maybe tears of joy after the bad guy was blown away. I am pretty sure the author was trying to show us readers that Judd was not a muscle bound hero like Arnold or Sly. But Judd came across as a 80's-90's man, with too much touchy feely emotions (won't even mention the scene outside the apartment). This guy is like light years away from John McClane (who was not muscle bound either). And speaking of wimps, what about the former astronaut/pilot who was VERY afraid of heights? Are there no real heroes anymore?
b. The French bad guy (Henri), not bad, very ruthless. But his choice for revenge was WAY way over the top. Did this guy never read Patriot Games? But his end & who actually got to him. Again back to Die Hard, who killed Hans Gruber? Holly, no, it was the misplaced hero, John McClane.
c. The conspiracy plot.....As an American I did not like it (the reason/person behind it). But even then, the author did not really do anything with it, he just let it fizzle out. The evil mastermind plot never really got anywhere. He was never shown to be anything other than a horny old man (okay, he had a secret, but again that was never played out).
d. The actual ending of the book? I rolled my eyes and kept turning pages, just hoping this was not the ending. But it was. I guess the author was trying to be cute? Refer to the ending of Die Hard. Sigh...
Things I did like:
a. The action. That I did like. Very over the top! But I went along with it. This is why I am giving the book 3 stars.
b. The very off-beat Australian pilot Corey. What a character...and oh yeah, his dog Spike.
But for several reason I was a little disappointed:
a. The hero (Judson Bell) cried too much for me to consider him an as action figure.....it was actually a bit awkward at times. I mean, did John McClane cry in Die Hard? Maybe tears of joy after the bad guy was blown away. I am pretty sure the author was trying to show us readers that Judd was not a muscle bound hero like Arnold or Sly. But Judd came across as a 80's-90's man, with too much touchy feely emotions (won't even mention the scene outside the apartment). This guy is like light years away from John McClane (who was not muscle bound either). And speaking of wimps, what about the former astronaut/pilot who was VERY afraid of heights? Are there no real heroes anymore?
b. The French bad guy (Henri), not bad, very ruthless. But his choice for revenge was WAY way over the top. Did this guy never read Patriot Games? But his end & who actually got to him. Again back to Die Hard, who killed Hans Gruber? Holly, no, it was the misplaced hero, John McClane.
c. The conspiracy plot.....As an American I did not like it (the reason/person behind it). But even then, the author did not really do anything with it, he just let it fizzle out. The evil mastermind plot never really got anywhere. He was never shown to be anything other than a horny old man (okay, he had a secret, but again that was never played out).
d. The actual ending of the book? I rolled my eyes and kept turning pages, just hoping this was not the ending. But it was. I guess the author was trying to be cute? Refer to the ending of Die Hard. Sigh...
Things I did like:
a. The action. That I did like. Very over the top! But I went along with it. This is why I am giving the book 3 stars.
b. The very off-beat Australian pilot Corey. What a character...and oh yeah, his dog Spike.
June 8, 2014
I don't read these sorts if books often, but every time I do I remember how much I enjoy them. Like Matthew Reilly, Steve Worland does a brilliant job at producing a fast paced page turner. Though I think there is a bit more character development in this book then a typical Rielly. I felt my morning of work slowly taken over by the need to finish Velocity.
There were some things that threw me: I found the characters to be sharply defined and clear cut which I was a little jarring as real life personalities are a little more muzzy and less likely to fit into a box, as such there was no surprise twists in character which was a shame (as I think Worland has the ability to pull characters like that off) but in saying that the characters aren't 2D. In the same way, I found the short information dumps (only a line or two each time) lacking in fitness (it sacrificed suspense and mystery for pace), but at the same time it worked for me as I'm the type of person who wants to know the why and how of things and that was the most expedient way to give that.
Over all its akin to watching an awesome action movie and I'll definitely be grabbing another one of Worland's books in the future.
There were some things that threw me: I found the characters to be sharply defined and clear cut which I was a little jarring as real life personalities are a little more muzzy and less likely to fit into a box, as such there was no surprise twists in character which was a shame (as I think Worland has the ability to pull characters like that off) but in saying that the characters aren't 2D. In the same way, I found the short information dumps (only a line or two each time) lacking in fitness (it sacrificed suspense and mystery for pace), but at the same time it worked for me as I'm the type of person who wants to know the why and how of things and that was the most expedient way to give that.
Over all its akin to watching an awesome action movie and I'll definitely be grabbing another one of Worland's books in the future.
October 12, 2012
Velocity is a page turner in the mould of Matthew Reilly’s fast paced thrillers. It has a great premise, some surprising plot twists and appealing characters. I particularly liked Corey, the Australian, and his dog Spike. The action moves around the world with a deft touch. I wasn’t surprised by Steve Worland’s screenwriting background, as there is a professionalism to the writing that takes a lot of work to achieve. There are also some nice character touches, ‘… the weasel comes out of the hole…’ and some emotional moments. I also enjoyed the humorous undercurrent throughout the book.
Far-fetched? If you can swallow the plots of the last twenty-five James Bond films you’ll have no trouble with this one.
Far-fetched? If you can swallow the plots of the last twenty-five James Bond films you’ll have no trouble with this one.
October 6, 2012
Fast paced and eye opening in regard to Nasa technicalities - exciting action scenes that you easily envision working on the big screen but read as ludicrous considering te feats this guy is expected to pull off in the time frame given no matter what level of injury/pain he is dealing with. Also ludicrous that jefoes 't die the many many times he is under fire by so called expert mercenaries. To quote Breaker Morant - why the hell can't they "shoot straight yer bastards!" - of course then the book/movie (which the writer obviously hopes it will become) would be over in the first 20mins.
Fun read which had me googling many details about the space shuttle - definitely for Matthew Reilly fans (slightly better written which is mot hard) .
December 11, 2016
Velocity is one of those books that is extremely hard to put down. The plot, while a stretch of the imagination, has enough twists and turns to keep any reader of adventure stories interested. I think author Steve Worland has outdone Matthew Reilly when conceiving this story line with characters whose antics left this reader breathless. I will definitely be watching for Worland's next book and suspect that Velocity will soon be turned into celluloid.
Finally, Sean Mangan is again to be congratulated. I have yet to listen to a book which is not complemented by his voice and reading style. Fast paced, terrorism, conspiracy along with two quirky characters (my favourites) make Velocity a must read and a favourite of mine.
Finally, Sean Mangan is again to be congratulated. I have yet to listen to a book which is not complemented by his voice and reading style. Fast paced, terrorism, conspiracy along with two quirky characters (my favourites) make Velocity a must read and a favourite of mine.
November 6, 2012
'Velocity' was a great debut action/thriller from Steve Worland and I look forward to the next installment.
Judson Bell is an astronaut who's not having the best run of luck. When the latest space shuttle launch is sabotaged with Judd's girlfriend on the crew, he takes the opportunity to save the day. Sent to a remote Australian outback space monitoring facility, the action comes closer than he was expecting. With the help of a slightly crazy Aussie helicopter pilot, Corey, (whose best mate and confidant is his dog Spike) Judd tangles with the baddies as he trys to rescue his girl.
Fast paced, this novel sits well with the Matthew Reilly fans out there.
Judson Bell is an astronaut who's not having the best run of luck. When the latest space shuttle launch is sabotaged with Judd's girlfriend on the crew, he takes the opportunity to save the day. Sent to a remote Australian outback space monitoring facility, the action comes closer than he was expecting. With the help of a slightly crazy Aussie helicopter pilot, Corey, (whose best mate and confidant is his dog Spike) Judd tangles with the baddies as he trys to rescue his girl.
Fast paced, this novel sits well with the Matthew Reilly fans out there.
July 30, 2016
This book had great action sequences that kept me turning the page. I could easily see the writer's film background seep through, as this would make a great action film. The only negative, really, was that I didn't care much for Judd Bell's wife, and wasn't quite sure why he was bothering to save her. But that aside, it's a good read!
June 27, 2016
For all Matthew Reilly fans, this is the book for you! Pure entertainment from start to finish with lots of action and adventure, and bigger than life storyline. Whilst I liked most of the main characters, for me it was Corey and his dog Spike, who stole the show and provided some wonderful light relief. Just hope there are more books to come starring these characters. Great escapism!!!!
December 7, 2012
Don't be put off by the relentless product placement in the first couple of chapters. It settles down and then is a great read. Very movie like in it's action sequences. I wonder if there were a few hidden digs behind some of the characters....
June 17, 2013
Enjoyable book good characters and funny in parts will look forward to reading more of his books
September 30, 2014
Read tyhis and the follow up as a style possibility for teenagers....ok and fast paced but not outstanding
October 28, 2014
100% Funky Dory
January 25, 2015
Fantastic fast paced great read
January 16, 2017
A really fun, action-packed read. Really loved the characters.
goodreadingguide-com
November 9, 2014AM reviewed for www.goodreadingguide.com
April 28, 2017
Exciting funny fast paced. Everything a great action thriller book should be.
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