Abnormal Ends

by Bryan McBee

In a not-so-distant future, the world is immersed in the all-encompassing realm of the internet. Smart technology implanted directly into human bodies has merged the virtual and physical realms, transforming the way people live and interact. However, this interconnectedness has also given rise to a sinister presence known as the Scourge, a prolific serial killer who exploits the seamless connectivity to track and murder unsuspecting victims, utilizing the very tools designed to unite humanity.
Dominique Fydorova, a survivor of the Scourge's carnage, finds herself caught between the relentless pursuit of law enforcement, who believe she is the murderer, and the Scourge, who seeks to eliminate any threats to its anonymity. Assisting her is Juan McCormack, a former FBI agent who discovered the Scourge's malevolent actions but was unable to pursue the investigation within the confines of the agency.
Together, Dominique and Juan embark on a perilous journey to unmask the identity of the Scourge and deliver justice before they too become victims. Abnormal Ends paints a chilling picture of a potential future, delving into the dangers and consequences of rapid technological advancement with gripping intensity.

360 pages, Paperback

Published August 22, 2023

About the author

Bryan McBee lives in Boise, Idaho, with his wife and daughter. After serving in the US Army for five years, he attended Boise State University, where he graduated in 2018.

Praise for Vector Zero:

"A rip-roaring work of fiction with plenty of suspense, surprises, action, and dread to offer readers." – READERS’ FAVORITE BOOK REVIEW of Vector Zero - 5 out of 5 stars
Full review here

"Distrust and deceit throw soldiers and civilians into a tailspin in this gripping tale." – KIRKUS REVIEWS on Vector Zero
Full review here


“This tale of ever-increasing contagion and the manhunt to run down the original source of the virulent killer is heavily dosed with science, suspense, and action…” PACIFIC BOOK REVIEW on Vector Zero
Full review here

Reviews

[Kay Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a lot of mystery/thrillers, and this was right up my alley. It had the most unique twist--the setting was cyberpunk, which was so fun. A serial killer in a cyberpunk world. It was so well written with intriguing and genuine characters I was invested in. I stayed up well past my bedtime flipping pages, riveted and dying to find out what would happen next.

[Kendra Hukill · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐

This was so good! I LOVE a good cyberpunk/technothriller and this absolutely delivered. The nuance of the trauma between the created AI, the human turned AI and how their life/"life" experiences shaped each of their trajectories still has my brain churning on how I feel about each of their "villainous" characters.

*SPOILER*
I just wish the ending had an explanation of how Dee went from being a #1 serial murder suspect to complete vindication within the eyes of the law was explained. WE know, as the reader, but one extra chapter to wrap up that part of her story, felt missing.

And then the three original AI, that were such a threat they had to be diminished and imprisoned, when they were either eradicated or free, there was...nothing? No explanation on what happened to society after the big battle?

Those things didn't diminish my absolute enjoyment of this book, but just felt like the ending was missing a bit.

Solid read, would recommend to anyone who enjoys the technothriller genre.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely one of the coolest books I’ve read in a while! If you like Gibson’s “Neuromancer” or “Altered Carbon” then you should read this as well. A very well crafted murder thriller in a cyberpunk setting that I think went above and beyond in both genres. The characters are well crafted; flawed, human…and not. I became invested in their outcomes early on and the book really takes you through an emotional roller coaster. Incredibly well crafted story about a serial killer in a cyberpunk near future that I think any fan of thrillers, sci-fi, or detective stories will latch onto and love. Bryan McBee knocked it out of the park with this and I will be certain to read his future works!

[Evangeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a captivating exploration of technology's potential and the unsettling possibility of humanity merging with the internet. It's a chilling reminder of the fine line between progress and peril, prompting reflection on the essence of human connection in an increasingly digital world. The author masterfully weaves a narrative that lingers long after the final page.

[Cody Streeper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful predictions of the future mixed with a drama to keep you on your toes, very exciting and thought provoking.