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Shortcut: A Jason Maxx thriller
The #1 Amazon bestseller! For fans of Andy Weir, from the first editor of THE MARTIAN, THE MARTIAN and PROJECT HAIL MARY meet GOOD WILL HUNTING and THE X-FILES in this page-turning thriller.
A mathematical genius. A formula that speeds up space travel called SHORTCUT. His loving wife. When Laura Maxx disappears after an attack that leaves Jason Maxx in the hospital, his only goal is to find her and bring her back. Then he gets a Laura is alive. Somewhere in space. To get her back, he’ll do whatever it takes—even taking on government agents who might try to stop him. Racing against the clock to perfect the formula and the system that relies on it and find a suitable craft to take him out there, Jason finds he needs more than math to succeed this time.
An unforgettable near future, hard science fiction thriller from the producer of Donnie Darko and A Time To Kill and the #1 bestselling author and first editor of Andy Weir’s The Martian, SHORTCUT will have you on the edge of your seat!
A mathematical genius. A formula that speeds up space travel called SHORTCUT. His loving wife. When Laura Maxx disappears after an attack that leaves Jason Maxx in the hospital, his only goal is to find her and bring her back. Then he gets a Laura is alive. Somewhere in space. To get her back, he’ll do whatever it takes—even taking on government agents who might try to stop him. Racing against the clock to perfect the formula and the system that relies on it and find a suitable craft to take him out there, Jason finds he needs more than math to succeed this time.
An unforgettable near future, hard science fiction thriller from the producer of Donnie Darko and A Time To Kill and the #1 bestselling author and first editor of Andy Weir’s The Martian, SHORTCUT will have you on the edge of your seat!
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2023
10 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Bryan Thomas Schmidt
52 books170 followersBryan Thomas Schmidt is a national bestselling author and Hugo nominated editor of adult and children’s speculative fiction. His fourth novel, Simon Says is a page-turning near future thriller. His debut novel, The Worker Prince received Honorable Mention on Barnes & Noble Book Club’s Year’s Best Science Fiction Releases for 2011. His children’s books, 102 More Hilarious Dinosaur Books For Kids and Abraham Lincoln: Dinosaur Hunter- Land Of Legends appeared from Delabarre Publishing in 2012. His short stories have appeared in Tales of The Talisman, Straight Outta Tombstone, The X-Files: Secret Agendas, Predator: If It Bleeds, Decision Points and many more.
He edited the anthologies Space Battles: Full Throttle Space Tales #6 for Flying Pen Press, Beyond The Sun for Fairwood Press, Raygun Chronicles: Space Opera For a New Age for Every Day, Shattered Shields with coeditor Jennifer Brozek (Baen, 2014), Mission: Tomorrow (Baen, 2015), Galactic Games (Baen, 2016), Decision Points (WordFire, 2016), Little Green Men--Attack! with Robin Wayne Bailey (Baen, 2017), Monster Hunter Files with Larry Correia (Baen, 2017), Joe Ledger: Unstoppable with Jonathan Maberry (St. Martin's Griffin, 2017), Predator: If It Bleeds and Infinite Stars And Infinite Stars: Dark Frontiers both for Titan Books, 2017 and 2019.
As editor, he has edited books for Grail Quest Books, Wordfire Press, Delabarre Publishing and authors including Andy Weir's The Martian which hit number 6 on the New York Times Bestsellers list in 2014, Alan Dean Foster, Mike Resnick, Frank Herbert, Todd McCaffrey, Tracy Hickman, Angie Fox, Leon C. Metz , Ellen C. Maze, David Mark Brown, and more.
He’s also the author of the bestselling nonfiction book How To Write A Novel: The Fundamentals of Fiction.
Bryan can be found online at Facebook, on Twitter as @BryanThomasS and @sffwrtcht and via his website.
He edited the anthologies Space Battles: Full Throttle Space Tales #6 for Flying Pen Press, Beyond The Sun for Fairwood Press, Raygun Chronicles: Space Opera For a New Age for Every Day, Shattered Shields with coeditor Jennifer Brozek (Baen, 2014), Mission: Tomorrow (Baen, 2015), Galactic Games (Baen, 2016), Decision Points (WordFire, 2016), Little Green Men--Attack! with Robin Wayne Bailey (Baen, 2017), Monster Hunter Files with Larry Correia (Baen, 2017), Joe Ledger: Unstoppable with Jonathan Maberry (St. Martin's Griffin, 2017), Predator: If It Bleeds and Infinite Stars And Infinite Stars: Dark Frontiers both for Titan Books, 2017 and 2019.
As editor, he has edited books for Grail Quest Books, Wordfire Press, Delabarre Publishing and authors including Andy Weir's The Martian which hit number 6 on the New York Times Bestsellers list in 2014, Alan Dean Foster, Mike Resnick, Frank Herbert, Todd McCaffrey, Tracy Hickman, Angie Fox, Leon C. Metz , Ellen C. Maze, David Mark Brown, and more.
He’s also the author of the bestselling nonfiction book How To Write A Novel: The Fundamentals of Fiction.
Bryan can be found online at Facebook, on Twitter as @BryanThomasS and @sffwrtcht and via his website.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 5, 2024
Shortcut is blend of mystery, thriller, and suspense, all rolled into one, and the story moves at a brisk, engaging pace that kept me hooked from start to finish. Reading this book was like enjoying a delicious meal - I just couldn't get enough!
The plot revolves around Jason Maxx, a brilliant mathematician, who embarks on an extraordinary mission to find and rescue his wife Laura Maxx, who's somehow ended up in space. It's a gripping tale, and you'll have to read the book to find out how he manages to track her down and save her.
Bryan's writing is simply remarkable. The book is well-structured, with a title and cover that perfectly encapsulate its essence. The language is clear and straightforward, making it an easy and enjoyable read. For anyone who loves sci-fi with elements of suspense and thrill, ""Shortcut"" is definitely a must-read. I'm eagerly looking forward to more books from this talented author.
The plot revolves around Jason Maxx, a brilliant mathematician, who embarks on an extraordinary mission to find and rescue his wife Laura Maxx, who's somehow ended up in space. It's a gripping tale, and you'll have to read the book to find out how he manages to track her down and save her.
Bryan's writing is simply remarkable. The book is well-structured, with a title and cover that perfectly encapsulate its essence. The language is clear and straightforward, making it an easy and enjoyable read. For anyone who loves sci-fi with elements of suspense and thrill, ""Shortcut"" is definitely a must-read. I'm eagerly looking forward to more books from this talented author.
October 20, 2024
"Shortcut" is a near-future hard science fiction novel that tells the gripping story of Jason Maxx, a brilliant mathematician whose groundbreaking formula could revolutionize space travel. This formula, aptly named "Shortcut," promises to reduce the time it takes to traverse vast distances in space, making what was once deemed impossible a tangible reality. The narrative takes a sudden twist when Jason's wife, Laura Maxx, is abducted, leaving Jason fighting for his life. In the wake of the attack, Jason receives a cryptic message from the Voyager One spacecraft indicating that Laura is still alive, but stranded in space. Jason's mission becomes a race against time as he works to perfect his formula and find a suitable spacecraft, all while evading government agents who may see him more as a threat than a saviour.
Engaging Plot:
The novel's plot is a thrilling rollercoaster that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. Bryan Thomas Schmidt masterfully blends scientific concepts with a gripping adventure, creating a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged. The stakes are high as Jason races against time, battling not only external threats but also his inner demons. His journey is fraught with tension, as every step forward seems to uncover new obstacles. This relentless pace keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, eager to find out what happens next. However, the pacing was uneven: the first two-thirds of the book were more engaging (even though not much happened in the first 20% of the book other than office and family politics), but the latter part seemed to slow down and didn't live up to the earlier part of the book.
Strong Narration:
One of the standout features of the audiobook is Stefan Rudnicki's narration. Rudnicki's deep, resonant voice brings the characters and the story to life, adding a layer of depth and emotion that enhances the overall listening experience. His ability to convey the urgency of Jason's mission, the despair of his circumstances, and the flickers of hope that keep him going, make the narrative even more compelling. Rudnicki's performance is a testament to his skill as a narrator, and his contribution to the audiobook cannot be overstated.
Hard Science Fiction:
"Shortcut" stands out in the realm of hard science fiction for its meticulous attention to scientific detail. Schmidt's background research is evident in the plausibility of the Shortcut formula and the intricacies of space travel depicted in the story. This commitment to scientific accuracy makes the story more believable and adds a layer of authenticity that science fiction fans will appreciate. The novel's technical details are woven seamlessly into the narrative, ensuring that they enhance rather than overshadow the story. This balance between science and storytelling is reminiscent of works by authors like Andy Weir, making "Shortcut" a must-listen for fans of hard science fiction.
Character Development:
The characters in "Shortcut" are well-developed and multi-dimensional. Jason Maxx is a protagonist that listeners can root for—his genius is tempered by his vulnerabilities, making him a relatable and compelling character. His determination to save his wife, despite the overwhelming odds, is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Laura Maxx, though physically absent for much of the story, is a constant presence in Jason's thoughts and motivations. The relationship between Jason and Laura adds an emotional depth to the story, highlighting the personal stakes involved in Jason's mission.
Themes:
The novel explores several themes that resonate with listeners. The concept of sacrifice is central to Jason's journey as he grapples with the personal and ethical implications of his quest. The story also delves into the theme of perseverance, illustrating the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their loved ones. Additionally, the novel touches on the ethical dilemmas associated with scientific advancements, raising thought-provoking questions about the potential consequences of humanity's quest to conquer space.
Conclusion:
"Shortcut" by Bryan Thomas Schmidt is a captivating and well-crafted hard science fiction novel that takes listeners on a thrilling journey through the possibilities of space travel. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and meticulous attention to scientific detail, the audiobook offers a rich and immersive listening experience. Stefan Rudnicki's narration further elevates the story, making it a standout in the genre. Whether you're a die-hard science fiction fan or simply looking for an exciting and thought-provoking audiobook, "Shortcut" is well worth a listen. This audiobook not only entertains but also challenges listeners to think about the future of space exploration and the ethical dilemmas that come with it.
Engaging Plot:
The novel's plot is a thrilling rollercoaster that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. Bryan Thomas Schmidt masterfully blends scientific concepts with a gripping adventure, creating a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged. The stakes are high as Jason races against time, battling not only external threats but also his inner demons. His journey is fraught with tension, as every step forward seems to uncover new obstacles. This relentless pace keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, eager to find out what happens next. However, the pacing was uneven: the first two-thirds of the book were more engaging (even though not much happened in the first 20% of the book other than office and family politics), but the latter part seemed to slow down and didn't live up to the earlier part of the book.
Strong Narration:
One of the standout features of the audiobook is Stefan Rudnicki's narration. Rudnicki's deep, resonant voice brings the characters and the story to life, adding a layer of depth and emotion that enhances the overall listening experience. His ability to convey the urgency of Jason's mission, the despair of his circumstances, and the flickers of hope that keep him going, make the narrative even more compelling. Rudnicki's performance is a testament to his skill as a narrator, and his contribution to the audiobook cannot be overstated.
Hard Science Fiction:
"Shortcut" stands out in the realm of hard science fiction for its meticulous attention to scientific detail. Schmidt's background research is evident in the plausibility of the Shortcut formula and the intricacies of space travel depicted in the story. This commitment to scientific accuracy makes the story more believable and adds a layer of authenticity that science fiction fans will appreciate. The novel's technical details are woven seamlessly into the narrative, ensuring that they enhance rather than overshadow the story. This balance between science and storytelling is reminiscent of works by authors like Andy Weir, making "Shortcut" a must-listen for fans of hard science fiction.
Character Development:
The characters in "Shortcut" are well-developed and multi-dimensional. Jason Maxx is a protagonist that listeners can root for—his genius is tempered by his vulnerabilities, making him a relatable and compelling character. His determination to save his wife, despite the overwhelming odds, is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Laura Maxx, though physically absent for much of the story, is a constant presence in Jason's thoughts and motivations. The relationship between Jason and Laura adds an emotional depth to the story, highlighting the personal stakes involved in Jason's mission.
Themes:
The novel explores several themes that resonate with listeners. The concept of sacrifice is central to Jason's journey as he grapples with the personal and ethical implications of his quest. The story also delves into the theme of perseverance, illustrating the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their loved ones. Additionally, the novel touches on the ethical dilemmas associated with scientific advancements, raising thought-provoking questions about the potential consequences of humanity's quest to conquer space.
Conclusion:
"Shortcut" by Bryan Thomas Schmidt is a captivating and well-crafted hard science fiction novel that takes listeners on a thrilling journey through the possibilities of space travel. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and meticulous attention to scientific detail, the audiobook offers a rich and immersive listening experience. Stefan Rudnicki's narration further elevates the story, making it a standout in the genre. Whether you're a die-hard science fiction fan or simply looking for an exciting and thought-provoking audiobook, "Shortcut" is well worth a listen. This audiobook not only entertains but also challenges listeners to think about the future of space exploration and the ethical dilemmas that come with it.
October 11, 2023
Bryan's book "Shortcut" was one i recently read, and I found it to be extremely fascinating. The story is based on mystery, thriller, suspense and twists. The plot pace is quick, witty and entertaining. I literally devoured this book like it was my favourite meal! I would like to appreciate the author's efforts to pen this amazing book down and I look forward to read more books by the author in the future.
The story is about a mathematical genius, Jason Maxx who is ready to do anything to find and bring back her wife Laura Maxx who is alive, somewhere in space. Grab the book to know how he reach there and save her wife!
A well crafted book. The writing style is intriguing. The title of the book and cover page is appropriate. Language used is simple and easy to grasp. Overall, if you are interested in reading sci-fi book with a touch of suspense and thriller elements, then this is the perfect book to go through.
The story is about a mathematical genius, Jason Maxx who is ready to do anything to find and bring back her wife Laura Maxx who is alive, somewhere in space. Grab the book to know how he reach there and save her wife!
A well crafted book. The writing style is intriguing. The title of the book and cover page is appropriate. Language used is simple and easy to grasp. Overall, if you are interested in reading sci-fi book with a touch of suspense and thriller elements, then this is the perfect book to go through.
June 27, 2024
Audiobook: This was my first experience with Bryan Thomas Schmidt's work. It was based on a story and characters written by Hunt Lowry and Bryan Thoms Schmidt. This story was hardcore science fiction. It told the tale of a man, Jason Maxx, whose wife was kidnapped. When Jason received a message from his wife through "Voyager One" which was located in space, he determined that he had to go and rescue her. The story was cutting edge with many twists and turns. I liked the characters as they were intelligent and determined. I enjoyed the love, understanding, and care portrayed by Jason and his wife to one another. Stefan Rudnicki's narration was good, and his performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review which included my opinions.
April 5, 2024
It is an amazing sci-fi thriller that had me hooked right from the start. The story is full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Bryan Thomas Schmidt has created characters that are not only complex but also have a touching romantic storyline. The combination of science fiction, paranormal elements, and space adventure makes the plot really engaging. I found myself deeply connected to the characters and eager to see how everything would unfold. I just couldn't stop reading it! It's definitely a book that every book lover should check out
April 5, 2024
Bryan Thomas Schmidt kicks off his novel with a thrilling twist right from the start, replacing the typical 'whodunnit' with an intriguing 'where did she go?' scenario. He keeps the excitement high throughout the book.
Blending elements of science fiction, thriller, and mystery, Schmidt crafts a novel that's utterly gripping. This is one of those books you just can't put down once you start reading.
Blending elements of science fiction, thriller, and mystery, Schmidt crafts a novel that's utterly gripping. This is one of those books you just can't put down once you start reading.
April 5, 2024
Bryan Thomas Schmidt kicks off his novel with a thrilling twist right from the start, replacing the typical 'whodunnit' with an intriguing 'where did she go?' scenario. He keeps the excitement high throughout the book.
Blending elements of science fiction, thriller, and mystery, Schmidt crafts a novel that's utterly gripping. This is one of those books you just can't put down once you start reading.
Blending elements of science fiction, thriller, and mystery, Schmidt crafts a novel that's utterly gripping. This is one of those books you just can't put down once you start reading.
December 23, 2024
I only read this because they plastered THE MARTIAN and PROJECT HAIL MARY all over the description. While it had some elements of those books, the end result was not nearly as enjoyable or polished.
December 22, 2025
I appreciate all the 'real' math and science.
December 23, 2025
The premise was good but the writing wasn’t. It has way too much exposition that doesn’t really advance the story.
July 14, 2024
Took a while to get going, solid science. A lot like Heinlein.
May 7, 2025
This was so good, a true hidden gem! This book is a mashup of sci-fi, mystery, and even romance. The science was really cool and the story engaging. Can't wait for more in this series!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews