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Pulse #2

Pulse: Book Two

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The fate of humanity rests in the hands of a few.

Book Two is the conclusion of B.A. Bellec’s dystopian sci-fi horror duology. This time around we are tapping into iconic stories like The Stand , Station Eleven , Cloud Atlas , Contact , and The Road to add elite and ambitious scale. Our chaotic journey picks up moments after the first book ends with action from the second you start turning the pages, but if you thought you knew where the story was going, leave your expectations at the door and ask yourself this one question:

How would an AI-driven orb defeat a monster?

562 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2023

2 people are currently reading
53 people want to read

About the author

B.A. Bellec

5 books235 followers
B.A. Bellec is an award-winning author. His debut novel, Someone's Story, was a coming of age tale and it went on to win multiple honors including the Reader Views Reviewer's Choice Young Adult Book of the Year. For his second novel, Pulse, he changed it up and wrote a dystopian sci-fi horror thriller. That novel became an IAN (Independent Author Network) Horror Book of the Year Finalist continuing Bellec's trend of writing high-level stories. His third novel was a direct sequel to Pulse and released in late 2023. He also produces music to go with his books. Check out his YouTube channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/c/babellecspr...

You can also find him on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ba_bellec/

Bellec resides in Winnipeg, Manitoba with his wife and dog. He spends those chilly winter days writing!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Jeff Bailey.
Author 2 books130 followers
October 6, 2024
Pulse Book Two is BA Bellec’s sequel to Pulse, wrapping up a two-volume dystopian horror story. The first book concentrated on a classic sci-fi “monster” creation story involving cannibalistic disease transmission and the immediate before and after of an accidental (?) contagion release during a rock concert.
Book Two picks up where Book One left off with several enjoyable elements. First, the backstories of many existing characters are explored, along with the introduction of new ones; I felt I got to know both old and new better; I liked spending more time with them, watching them interact as couples and small cadres. (Even though some met untimely deaths, the pace of death has slowed compared to the frenetic action of Book One, and therefore the deaths are that much harder to read about). The background of the disease and its other-worldly origin are fully explored in Book 2. I liked Book 2’s post-apocalyptic vibe: a “we have to find a cure” race involving blizzard conditions in Antarctica as well as the exploration of Mars. Book 2 completes an agreeable reluctant superhero sage as well as an unexpected redemptive villain plotline)—all storylines introduced in the first book are neatly woven together in the second volume.

If you enjoyed the first volume, the second book is highly recommended. If you haven’t read the first, start there!
Profile Image for hayley.
305 reviews
June 15, 2024
Firstly, I would like to thank Booktasters for providing me a free copy of Pulse: Book Two in exchange of an honest review!

Reading this book was such an interesting and eye opening experience that I did not expect seeing as I did not read the first book prior to this? (which is my bad I apologise because I had no idea this was a sequel) I have also not read any dystopian horror novels before this so it took me a while to warm up to the gore but it’s just a personal preference:) Fortunately, Bellec’s invigorating writing carried and I was able to catch up with the previous events with ease. The fact that our world might actually become that depicted in the book one day will never not scare me. I love how poignant the message of the book is and the ending almost made me cry HELP! I definitely think I will go back to read the first book when I get the time since I truly loved the world building and I can definitely see this duology being adapted into movies years down the line! I would truly recommend the Pulse universe to anyone who likes reading dystopian books (especially the Maze Runner fans because this book very much gave me similar vibes!)
Profile Image for Christine Cazeneuve.
1,466 reviews42 followers
November 1, 2023
Freaking awesome

You will be hard pressed to find a more unique and amazing series than The Pulse books. This author is so brilliant in his writing style that it's very hard to categorize this series. The characters are real and relatable and the story never gets dull. You will also cheer at the clear message the author is saying to the world. One of the best damn series ever. Read it!
Profile Image for Reader Views.
4,740 reviews332 followers
October 8, 2023
The fate of humanity rests in the hands of a few.—Preface

Starting with that ominous line, “Pulse: Book Two” (Pulse 2) immediately sets a tone of high stakes and uncertainty. This sequel serves as the astounding finale to B.A. Bellec’s PULSE duology. Rarely do I find a sequel that outshines its predecessor, but Pulse 2 does just that in every conceivable way. It’s an exceptional novel that reshapes the landscape of dystopian, sci-fi, and horror literature.

Set in 2040, Pulse stands as a corporate titan. Imagine merging today’s tech, retail, and scientific research giants, and you’ll come close to grasping the scope of Pulse’s power. It’s an all-encompassing behemoth with its hand in everything from bioengineering to consumer electronics to food sources, infiltrating virtually every facet of society. They also employ many secretive programs—all at the expense of the population and global resources. As public scrutiny of Pulse and its motives intensifies, all eyes turn to PulseFest, the world’s biggest musical event, which could either cement Pulse’s monopoly or trigger its downfall.

Pulse 2 picks up at PulseFest where a creature wreaks havoc on NYC. Dubbed, ‘The Fall,’ the devastation claimed the lives of 2 billion people in the first 2 weeks. Survival is the sole objective of the remains of humanity. Ousted Pulse co-founder Eric Wright has long been in exile in the desert after rejecting the company’s illicit activities. The other co-founder Mark Sharpe, having survived The Fall, wants to right his wrongs with Eric and help him rebuild the original vision. Eric invites a select group to join him at his compound to work toward thwarting the impending catastrophe. With an unknown entity seemingly one step ahead of them at every turn, will they succeed in saving humanity?

Wow, right?! Let’s dig in. Here’s what made Pulse 2 a knockout for me.

Bellec’s writing style is visual, cinematic, and descriptive, using just the right combination to ratchet up tension or provide relief at just the right moments. He masterfully balances visceral scenes of grit and horror with profound glimpses into the inner workings of his characters’ minds. (Seriously, some of the scenes with the creatures are truly gag-worthy.) Seamless transitions between third-person and first-person broaden the storytelling lens, and the intimate looks into the minds of the characters establish an emotional connection that’s hard to shake off. Integrating this third-to-first technique is just another testament to Bellec’s distinctiveness as a writer. He confronts storytelling with an open mind—willing to learn, adapt, and integrate new methods, continuously elevating his game.

The characters are phenomenal. Bellec takes character development a step further in Pulse 2, building impressively on the first installment. Familiar faces return—many weathered by The Fall, while a few new characters also enrich the narrative. It’s a diverse cast, but the author’s skillful orchestration ensures the reader is never lost or confused. I’ll focus on a few characters who left a lasting impression on me.

The creatures hit me profoundly—toward the end, that is. I don’t want to enter spoiler territory, so I’ll just say the game-changing twist about the creatures left me floored. It adds a layer of complexity that had me rethinking the very dynamics of power and influence, not just in the book but in the real world. It’s a jaw-dropper, so prepare yourself.

Eric Wright is a protagonist who challenged me, surprisingly. Reclusive by nature, he frequently isolates himself in his office for days, dismissing even the most basic social interactions. When he does choose to speak, his brusqueness can be challenging to endure. However, as the story unfolds, we see different facets of his personality emerge and by the end of the story, he won me over.

Amber and Cora are other standouts who journey through the dystopian U.S. landscape trying to reach Eric’s sanctuary. Amber unknowingly has a critical role in humanity’s future, while Cora, an orphan since The Fall, is navigating the challenges of having to grow up too quickly. On the villainous side, the Man in Black is nothing short of maniacal and during one scene in particular you can actually feel his descent into madness.

All in all, Pulse 2 delivers an adrenaline rush from start to finish. Its characters are nuanced, the plot twists are both surprising and logical, and the setting is richly crafted. From the dystopian landscape and survival strategies to details like the advanced robotics of the P-7500’s, the narrative never lacks depth. The story tackles big questions about the ethics of corporate power, the consequences of playing God through bioengineering, and the philosophical quandaries of survival.

If you’re new to the ‘Pulse’ series, don’t be deterred. The author provides a comprehensive introduction to the Pulse universe, making Pulse 2 accessible, even for newcomers. But given that this is a duology, you’ll find the experience much more enriching if you start with the first installment.

I heartily give “Pulse: Book 2” by B.A. Bellec Five Stars! Simply put, it stands alone at the summit of speculative fiction. An absolute triumph in storytelling.
Profile Image for Ultimate World.
765 reviews49 followers
October 13, 2023
"Pulse: Book Two" by B.A. Bellec is the thrilling and ambitious conclusion to the dystopian sci-fi horror duology that began with "Pulse: Book One." In this second installment, the fate of humanity hangs in the balance as the story takes readers on a chaotic and suspenseful journey reminiscent of iconic works like "The Stand," "Station Eleven," "Cloud Atlas," "Contact," and "The Road."

The novel picks up immediately where the first book left off, plunging readers into action from the very first page. Expect the unexpected, as Bellec masterfully subverts expectations, delivering a narrative that is both elite and ambitious in scale. The stakes are higher, the challenges more daunting, and the mysteries more profound in this gripping continuation of the series.

Bellec's ability to maintain tension and suspense throughout the story is commendable. The world-building, which was a strong point in the first book, continues to shine as the narrative expands its scope and delves deeper into the complexities of the dystopian setting.

Readers who enjoyed the first book will find "Pulse: Book Two" to be a satisfying and thrilling conclusion to the duology. The author's ability to blend elements of horror, sci-fi, and dystopian fiction into a cohesive and engaging narrative is on full display in this installment. The story keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how a P-7500 might defeat the enigmatic and menacing creatures that threaten humanity.

As with the first book, Bellec's writing style is marked by its modern and minimalistic approach, which adds to the book's overall appeal. The story is as much a work of suspenseful storytelling as it is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition in the face of overwhelming adversity.

In "Pulse: Book Two," B.A. Bellec concludes his duology with an electrifying and enigmatic finale. This book is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction, sci-fi, and horror. It offers a satisfying resolution to the complex and gripping narrative that has unfolded across the two books, leaving readers with a sense of awe and anticipation for the author's future works.

In summary, "Pulse: Book Two" is a pulse-pounding and intellectually stimulating novel that showcases B.A. Bellec's storytelling prowess and cements his place as a talented author in the genre. This conclusion to the duology is a thrilling and immersive experience that will leave readers thinking long after they've turned the final page.
Profile Image for K.A. Wiggins.
Author 21 books198 followers
October 10, 2023
The sequel and finale to Pulse: Book One expands in scope dramatically while juggling a truly remarkable number of threads. Bellec lists some of his inspirations in an author's note, and I could certainly see the influence of large-cast, multi-strand epics like The Stand and the uncharacteristic, almost hourglass structure of Cloud Atlas.

As you might imagine, the scope does make for a more challenging read. I appreciated the pains Bellec took recapping the previous book, and I suspect readers will benefit from reading both books back to back now that the full duology is available. The reading experience (mirroring the structure) was a slow-burn slope toward a breakneck explosion of action in the middle to final quarter, with an extended denouement wrapping up the (many) plot threads, character journeys, and sci-fi/technological/hopepunk threads.

Speaking of which, while in hindsight you can certainly see the groundwork in book 1, the feel was more (or equally) horror to SF, while the sequel (IMHO) leans more strongly SF, as Bellec charges into the future and the narrative moves into, through, and past apocalypse into what comes after. Ecopunk, solarpunk, hopepunk (etc.) fans will be interested to explore his well-detailed visions. And on that note, whether it's the various classifications of monsters (spoilery, but . . . or are they???), gore-laden final moments of minor and (ahem) major characters, or futuristic technology, Bellec leans into vividly (viscerally) imagined descriptions and unflinchingly brings his vision to life. Not always an easy read, but that's not what you're here for anyway, right?

I'd be remiss in neglecting to mention that part of what takes Bellec's vision to the next level is his melding of media formats, and readers should check the author's website for links to music (/music videos), images, animations—all custom produced to bring the story world to life. Fantastic to see this level of creativity, investment, and initiative, and something I wish more creators were empowered and equipped to take on!
Profile Image for Rutuja Ramteke.
1,993 reviews96 followers
December 22, 2023
Brace yourselves, readers, for "Pulse: Book Two" is a dystopian symphony that blasts your preconceptions into oblivion. B.A. Bellec masterfully builds upon the chilling foundation of the first book, dragging you into a whirlwind of sci-fi horror that echoes with the haunting notes of "The Stand," "Station Eleven," and a dash of cosmic awe like "Contact."

Forget predictable sequels. This is a genre-bending beast that throws you headfirst into chaos the moment you crack it open. If you thought you knew the game, Bellec gleefully shatters your expectations, leaving you breathless and desperate to unravel the tapestry of horrors he weaves.

This isn't a simple battle of brawn against brawn; it's a dance of logic and adaptability against an unknowable entity. Bellec expertly portrays the unique struggles of an autonomous droid grappling with humanity's existential fear - confronting the unknown with only its programming and dwindling hope as weapons.

But "Pulse: Book Two" isn't just about robots wrestling cosmic nightmares. It's a deeply human story, resonating with the raw, desperate drive for survival. Belbec crafts a vivid cast of characters, each clinging to scraps of sanity and morality in the face of unimaginable loss. Their journeys are heartbreaking, hopeful, and utterly gripping, weaving a tapestry of emotion that binds you to their fate.

Be prepared for a wild ride. This book is not for the faint of heart. It's a roller coaster of suspense, terror, and philosophical ruminations that will leave you reeling long after you reach the final page. But for those who crave a unique and thought-provoking blend of sci-fi and horror, "Pulse: Book Two" is a must-read. It's a symphony of terror, beautifully and meticulously orchestrated, offering a thrilling and unforgettable crescendo to this apocalyptic duology.

Definitely a lengthy read but trust me, the story is all worth it, can it be read as a stand-alone? Well, yes you can but a lot of loose ends will be experienced so it’s better to start it after you read book one!

Rating: 4.5🌟
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,776 reviews441 followers
October 10, 2023
In B.A. Bellec’s latest installment of the Pulse series, humanity, teeters on the precipice of its fate, ensnaring readers in a gripping dystopian fusion of science fiction and horror. Venturing into this tumultuous world, readers join Magnus on a whirlwind odyssey through a landscape populated by formidable monsters, mysterious mutants, and formidable robots. Moreover, an enigmatic antagonist known as the Man in Black casts a shadow over events, intent on sculpting a new world order.

Pulse: Book Two rekindles the flames of our passion for tales that masterfully intertwine horror and action. Picture this: a chilling tableau of menacing creatures that "enter the room, sniffing relentlessly like bloodhounds on the hunt." Characters such as Amber stand out, battling not only external threats but also internal conflicts. When faced with the possibility that her memories have been manipulated, Amber's journey becomes a quest for truth, causing readers to hang on to every twist and turn.

The book boasts meticulously crafted action sequences that not only leap off the pages but would seamlessly transition to cinematic screens or video game adaptations. A particularly memorable scene involves Amber brandishing a katana retrieved from a desolate home as she takes on a monstrous adversary.

A noteworthy feature of Pulse: Book Two is its innovative narrative style. Dialogues are presented in a format reminiscent of dramatic works, while each chapter is prefixed with a date and time, enriching the reader's immersive experience.

Pulse: Book Two is a must-read for readers of horror, action, and sci-fi books. Beyond its thrilling narrative, the book serves as a poignant commentary on climate change and unchecked materialism, urging readers to reflect on and amend our existing trajectories. Dive into this compelling saga; it promises to be both an intellectual feast and an exhilarating adventure.
Profile Image for Leah Ackerman.
7 reviews
June 30, 2024
First, thank you to Booktasters for the oportunity to read this book and I also took my time to read Book One which is a fantastic book.

From the moment I turned the first page of "Pulse: Book Two," I was utterly captivated. This book is an electrifying continuation of a series that has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. The world-building is exceptional, plunging me deeper into a dystopian universe that feels eerily real and terrifyingly possible.

The characters are incredibly well-developed, and I found myself deeply invested in their journeys. Every interaction is loaded with tension, and the evolving dynamics kept me on the edge of my seat. The protagonist's growth from the first book is palpable, and I was moved by their struggles and triumphs. They felt like old friends by now, and I couldn't help but cheer them on as they faced ever-increasing challenges.

The plot is a roller-coaster ride of twists and turns. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the author threw in another surprise that left me breathless. The pacing is perfect, balancing heart-pounding action with quieter, introspective moments that add depth and richness to the story. I appreciated how every scene served a purpose, pushing the narrative forward in unexpected ways.

What stands out most about "Pulse: Book Two" is the author's ability to tackle complex themes with such nuance. Exploring power, humanity, and survival is thought-provoking and handled with a deft touch. It made me reflect on our world and the choices we make.

In conclusion, "Pulse: Book Two" is an absolute triumph. It's a rare sequel that not only lives up to the high standards set by its predecessor but surpasses them. If you haven't started this series yet, could you do yourself a favor and dive in? You won't be disappointed. This book has earned every one of its five stars, and I eagerly await the next installment.
Profile Image for Onemorechap.
24 reviews4 followers
October 4, 2023
• I was very excited to read this book after book 1 in the series had ended on a cliffhanger, and now, 1.5 years later I wasn’t disappointed! "Pulse" is a captivating dystopian sci-fi horror duology set in 2035, a time marked by the chaotic convergence of climate change and capitalism. The intricately woven narrative revolves around the rise of Pulse, a corporation led by the enigmatic CEO Mark Sharpe, shrouded in a veil of secrecy controlled by his father, Alan. Within the heart of Pulse's dominance, a group of activists and a relentless detective embark on a quest to unearth the corporation's secrets. Their pursuit leads to the ominous PulseFest, an event with catastrophic results on a global scale.

• The book is written through multiple POVs that allow us to get a better understanding of the different characters of the story.

• I loved how the book is a chillingly plausible vision of the future that resonates with the anxieties of our time.

• The characters in "Pulse" are complex and diverse, each grappling with their own demons and motivations. As the story progresses, the characters' lives become increasingly interconnected, converging in a climactic battle against overwhelming odds, leading to an ending I hadn’t seen coming - which I absolutely loved!!!

• Lastly, let me mention how much I love what the author did with the cover. It is actually a mirrored brighter version of book 1's cover, thus seeing the books next to each other creates a beautiful sight – how clever!

➺ Rating: 4.9/5✨
Profile Image for Prashant Singh.
886 reviews32 followers
December 23, 2023
I don't know what to write about this book, this book is so fantastic, awesome and full of thrill that I'm speechless. This book is the sequel of Pulse book 1 and marks the end of the series, and honestly I wanted more from it.

The book starts right at the point where it ends, the fall has caused a loss of 2 billion lives, and the one who survived have now only one moto and that is to keep themselves alive. Set in a dystopian future, the book provides thrill and horror abs also deep insights on the situation of Pulse and its characters like Ambar's current situation.

All I can say about the plot is that in a dystopian future, a company Pulse has created it's monopoly and now all lives are in their control because of their technology and the power of manipulation that comes with it, but there are a few people who knows this and thus set on the journey to disclose Pulse's true intention and destroy it. In the second book we get to see the turmoil in the company and its CEO'S desperate attempts to make everything right and a bunch of people trying to destroy it, with some deadly bloodhound creatures on the loose devouring lives. I can't tell much about it, as it will spoil your fun and will make this really lengthy.

About the author's writing, it's fantastic, the pictures of every scenes will stay in your mind, it is that descriptive, the book takes its time on its characters building without slowing the pace down.

The book is definitely a must read for everyone so if you haven't started the series yet, start it you'll not regret it a bit.
Profile Image for Vanessa Vasquez.
2 reviews1 follower
September 2, 2023
Diving head first into the sequel of “Pulse,” has been nothing short of heart-gripping as we continue to follow the journey of the few lone survivors who managed to escape the death sentence brought upon by these mysterious white worm-like creatures whom has managed to maneuver there way outside of New York and in turn it causes a mass global outbreak. This time around, the characters are fleeting in all directions as the setting continually changes amidst a newfound world consumed by creatures, technology gone haywire, and the very peculiar “man in black,” who has more than a few dark secrets he has been harboring for our beloved characters, new and old.

Fear not, book two will leave you with much emotional turmoil delivered with prompt momentum that just hits you all at once. You will find your mind absorbed with many real themes and concepts that make us as readers question our own reality as it is. Bryan does an amazing job with mind-bending the way we perceive life as we know it by merging realistic and idealistic views into the novel; which makes for intense shock value.

Of course I don’t want to give away too much and strip away this reading experience for newcomers or returning fans of Bryan, so, with that said I wouldn't hesitate to pick this up, especially if you’re into sci-fi horror stories, shows, and movies alike. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed ;)

-Your Beta Reader, Vanessa <3
Profile Image for Píaras Cíonnaoíth.
Author 143 books205 followers
December 24, 2023
A powerful conclusion to the dystopian sci-fi horror duology...

"Pulse: Book Two" by B.A. Bellec delivers a powerful conclusion to the dystopian sci-fi horror duology. Drawing inspiration from iconic narratives, Bellec elevates the scale and ambition of the story. The second installment picks up seamlessly where the first book left off, thrusting readers into a whirlwind of action from the very start. While the initial expectations might suggest a certain trajectory, Bellec skillfully defies those assumptions, ensuring that readers are in for a thrilling ride filled with unexpected twists. The central question posed—how would an autonomous droid defeat a monster?—sets the stage for a narrative that goes beyond conventional boundaries.

Bellec's storytelling prowess shines as the chaotic journey unfolds, exploring themes of survival, autonomy, and the relentless pursuit of defeating seemingly insurmountable challenges. "Pulse: Book Two" not only serves as a fitting conclusion to the duology but also cements B.A. Bellec's ability to deliver a compelling narrative that pushes the boundaries of dystopian fiction. With its elite scale and unpredictable twists, this sequel promises an exhilarating reading experience for fans of the genre. Thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommended it.
Profile Image for T.C. Schueler.
Author 2 books27 followers
July 27, 2024
Pulse Book Two is BA Bellec’s sequel to Pulse, wrapping up a two-volume dystopian horror story. The first book concentrated on a classic sci-fi “monster” creation story involving cannibalistic disease transmission and the immediate before-and-after of an accidental (?) contagion release during a rock concert.

Book Two picks up where Book One left off with several enjoyable elements. First, the backstories of many existing characters are explored, along with the introduction of new ones; I felt I got to know both old and new better; I liked spending more time with them, watching them interact as couples and small cadres. (Even though some met untimely deaths, the pace of death has slowed compared to the frenetic action of Book One, and therefore the deaths are that much harder to read about). The background of the disease and its other-worldly origins are fully explored in Book 2. I liked Book 2’s post-apocalyptic vibe, a “we have to find a cure” race involving blizzard conditions in Antarctica as well as the exploration of Mars. Book 2 completes an agreeable reluctant superhero sage as well as an unexpected redemptive villain plotline, those stories and others introduced in the first book are neatly woven together in the second volume.

If you enjoyed the first volume, the second book is highly recommended. If you haven’t read the first, start there!
Profile Image for Silent T Comics.
4 reviews
October 29, 2023
Pulse: Book Two is far more intense and engaging than it's predecessor; Pulse: Book One. Book Two is so crazy - it requires a higher page count to contain the madness! The entire saga should definitely be adapted into a series of films!

Immediately, this book hits you with the disgustingly rich horror you have come to cherish from the previous installment (having ended on a cliffhanger I might add).

B.A. Bellec does not waste any time serving the reader with his memorable wrinkly creatures with razor sharp teeth. All the while bouncing around between unique and compelling characters.

You will no doubt feel a "pulse" of electricity through your senses when you read Pulse: Book Two. This particular "pulse" will zap all extremities - even your earlobes...

Lastly, Pulse: Book Two physically smells really good! That's right! Don't believe me? Go get a copy then!

You will have an incredible read!
Profile Image for Celeste.
995 reviews26 followers
January 3, 2024
Pulse: Book Two delivers an exhilarating conclusion to an already gripping dystopian saga, taking readers into a rollercoaster of action, suspense, and unexpected twists. From the very first page, the narrative involves readers back into the chaos left off from the conclusion of the first book. However, any ideas about the story's direction are soon changed, inviting readers to discard their expectations as they set off on an unpredictable journey that challenges the mind and stirs the imagination.
The author, B.A. Bellec, has an incredible talent for world-building and character development. As the narrative unfolds, the characters undergo profound transformations. Each character's evolution adds layers of depth to the storyline, inviting readers to connect with the protagonists and live this thrilling story with every turn of the page. Pulse is a must-read for fans of dystopian science fiction.

Profile Image for Steven Finkelstein.
973 reviews11 followers
February 20, 2024
Pulse: Book II, by B.A. Bellec, is the conclusion of a tremendously inventive tale that invokes aspects of the horror, sci-fi, and dystopian future genres. Those who did not read the first installment should be able to pick up on what’s happening with little difficulty.

The story is an exploration of some of humanity’s most profound existential fears. The potential downside of scientific advancement is evoked, as is the notion that capitalism is a viable societal construct. Another prevailing theme is that humanity is always on the brink of turning into something monstrous, in this case, quite literally.

It’s up to a few intrepid characters to stop a pandemic that’s rapidly spreading across the globe. What’s perhaps the most frightening aspect of the narrative is that it doesn’t appear unrealistic at all. This is the kind of science fiction-horror hybrid that seems all too possible. It’s an unsettling read, but also a very enjoyable one.

54 reviews1 follower
December 26, 2023
"Pulse: Book Two" by B.A. Bellec delivers a thrilling conclusion to the dystopian sci-fi horror duology, throwing readers into a world where the destiny of humanity hangs by a thread. Drawing inspiration from iconic tales like The Stand and The Road, Bellec scales up the chaos, weaving a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Picking up right where the first book left off, this sequel launches into action from the get-go. But don't get too comfortable; Bellec skillfully subverts expectations, introducing elements from iconic stories like Station Eleven and Cloud Atlas. The intriguing twist of pondering how an autonomous droid could defeat a monster adds a layer of suspense to an already gripping narrative. "Pulse: Book Two" is a rollercoaster ride through a dystopian landscape, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
61 reviews4 followers
December 28, 2023
"Pulse: Book Two" by B.A. Bellec is a thrilling and ambitious journey that serves as the conclusion to a dystopian sci-fi horror duology. What stood out immediately was the commitment to an elite and ambitious narrative scope, invoking well-known classics in the genre. There was action from the very beginning, which did a good job of maintaining the momentum established in the first book. The autonomous droid facing off against a monster added an element of curiosity and excitement, making one ponder the possibilities within the dystopian world created by Bellec. Overall, this book offers a gripping and unexpected conclusion to the duology. Its ambitious scale, genre influences, and the intriguing question posed create anticipation for a narrative that challenges conventions and delivers a memorable conclusion to the dystopian saga.
Profile Image for Yolanda Gomez.
570 reviews9 followers
December 30, 2023
Pulse stands as a stellar and thrilling conclusion to the sci-fi horror duology, making this a narrative that expands the scope and intensity of the series. This sequel immediately grabbed my attention, delivering non stop action from the first page. In my opinion, this book is the perfect conclusion to the series. I really appreciate the author's ability to shatter expectations, presenting a unique challenge. This book mixes genres so well, you can perfectly identify the sci-fi, horror and also a bit of mystery, making this plot full of innovative twists and a multidimensional experience. I loved to feel that this amazing series concludes in the best way, but still when I finished the last pages, I was still wondering and asking myself profound questions to really get to understand this read.
Profile Image for Amy Koller.
89 reviews3 followers
December 22, 2023
Pulse: Book Two by B.A. Bellec is an exhilarating conclusion to the dystopian sci-fi horror duology. It immerses readers in a tension-filled world and keeps the action going from start to finish. With unexpected twists, the book constantly surprises readers and leaves them eagerly anticipating what comes next. The exploration of how an autonomous droid could defeat a monster adds a unique and thought-provoking element to the story. Bellec's seamless blending of dystopian, sci-fi, and horror genres creates a chilling atmosphere that will captivate fans of these genres. Overall, Pulse: Book Two delivers on its promises of action, surprises, and thought-provoking concepts, making it a must-read for fans of dystopian sci-fi and horror.
60 reviews3 followers
December 28, 2023
"Pulse: Book Two" by B.A. Bellec presents a compelling finale to the dystopian sci-fi horror series. Drawing inspiration from well-established narratives, Bellec expands the story ambitiously, starting the second book seamlessly from its predecessor.

The narrative defies expectations, offering a gripping experience with unexpected twists. The central theme, exploring how an autonomous droid confronts a monster, propels the story beyond conventional limits. Bellec's storytelling skill shines as the journey unfolds, delving into themes of survival and autonomy.

In addition to effectively concluding the duology, this sequel demonstrates Belloc's adeptness at pushing the boundaries of dystopian fiction. I highly recommend this book for genre enthusiasts.
Profile Image for Almiria.
746 reviews10 followers
December 28, 2023
Pulse: Book Two by B.A. Bellec starts with a bang, diving straight into the tense action of a world in which the corporation Pulse essentially rules, and bots are running almost everything. Filled with weird and wonderful, yet believable, characters and plenty of action and dialogue, the author nevertheless manages to infuse enough worldbuilding to create a well-rounded alternative reality. One disadvantage of this book is that it doesn’t read well as a standalone novel, since it is the second part of a 2-book series. However, the introduction catches readers up on the most essential events to date. Still, I would recommend starting with the first book. I am giving this book four stars out of five.
Profile Image for Valery.
1,501 reviews57 followers
December 29, 2023
In the epic wrap-up, Pulse: Book Two by B.A. Bellec ambitiously closes out the dystopian sci-fi horror duo, tossing you into a non-stop thrill ride. Right from the start, Bellec's writing style dives headfirst into a frenzy of action, maintaining a crazy pace throughout. With twists that keep you guessing, the narrative becomes a rollercoaster, leaving you waiting for the next unexpected hair-raising turn. There are plenty of clashes to hold your interest too. The author's mashup of dystopia, sci-fi, and horror creates a vibe that's both atmospheric and spine-tingling, delivering on the promise of action, surprises, and surprisingly, deep contemplation. This is a great read and worthy of exploring. Recommended.
Profile Image for Mariana.
653 reviews13 followers
December 30, 2023
I loved to see such a great ending for the dystopian sci-fi horror duology. Pulse by B.A. Bellec grabbed my attention from where the first book left off, defying expectations, posing a fascinating question about how an autonomous droid could overcome a monstrous adversary. I think this book is amazing; it immersed me in a dystopian landscape that feels hauntingly familiar yet refreshingly unique, showing a future where chaos and suspense reign.

Character development is a standout, as each of them faces challenges that enrich their arcs. Bellec delves into the human condition amidst overwhelming odds, creating relatable and compelling journeys, which I really enjoyed. It kept me wondering what will happen and turning pages till the very end.
52 reviews1 follower
January 1, 2024
"Pulse: Book Two" by B.A. Bellec serves as a gripping conclusion to the dystopian sci-fi horror duology, delivering an adrenaline-fueled narrative where the destiny of humanity hangs in the balance. This sequel, characterized by its elite scale and unpredictable twists, ensures a thrilling experience for avid genre enthusiasts. The author skillfully integrates a unique and thought-provoking element, contemplating how an autonomous droid could triumph over a monstrous threat. Themes of survival, autonomy, and the relentless pursuit of overcoming formidable challenges permeate the narrative, adding depth to the overall story. For fans seeking a compelling and suspenseful read, "Pulse: Book Two" delivers on its promises with finesse.
Profile Image for Anna Sainclivier.
44 reviews1 follower
January 16, 2024
The genre of dystopian science fiction is one of my favorites, and the author, B.A. Bellac does not disappoint. The writing style keeps you captivated by the narrative and explains the nuances of the technology and its involvement throughout the story. At no times did I find it difficult to follow the story, and felt as if I picked up from the previous book in this duology. This novel illuminates so much with what could go wrong with today’s society, politics, and the corruption of capitalism. What I like best about it is the feelings and considerations it evokes in the society we live in – its positive, as well as its negative and possibly very destructive, elements. If you want a novel that will make you think, and keep you engaged throughout its entirety, I highly recommend this!
62 reviews2 followers
November 16, 2024
Pulse book 1 was fenomenal and book 2 is on way beyond. This dystopian horror fiction novel, takes place in the future where the world is controlled by an evil coorporate called PULSE. The coorporate was holding a festival that turned to be the begining of the end. An outbreak hit Pulse festival and starts spreading fast between people kiling them or turning them into white winkled monsters. Civilization as we know it is falling. People who were not affected trying to escape major cities. Death everywhere and monsters are taking over.
A year after the outbreak few people survived, Humanity is at risk of extiction but there is hope resides in the desert and few sevivers are heading there along with the monsters and its humanity final stand.

The novel is filled with action and horror scenes that keeps the reader attached. The development of the main characters in the novel between book 1 and 2 was inspiring and the ending was satisfying.

The author opens the readers eyes to many hot topics like technology take over and what separates us from machines, and most important value to hold on to your loved ones

Thanks to the author for this fenomenal novel.
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