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The NOVA System: Nerds, Spies and Games of the Mind
Of course the first time a beautiful woman pays attention to Gavin, she’s a spy that thrusts him into a world of lies, manipulation and conspiracy. While this new life is filled with lies, Gavin will learn more truth about himself and who he is than he ever would have on his own. All he has to do is survive. Which is easier said than done while having the NOVA system in his head. Now, he has new threats that he has to look out for, both foreign and domestic, that seem to show up every day. And while he feels he can rely on Alex to help him navigate this new life, she has plenty of issues of her own.
Now that he has the NOVA system, he seems to know things and learn things he never should. What is the NOVA system? What does it do? Why is everyone after it? And most importantly, why him?
Now that he has the NOVA system, he seems to know things and learn things he never should. What is the NOVA system? What does it do? Why is everyone after it? And most importantly, why him?
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2023
7 people are currently reading
883 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 17, 2023
First of all I want to thank the Author for sending me a copy of this wonderful book.
I am an ARC reader and I was lucky enough to get a copy.
This book was a pleasure to read. I couldn’t wait to get to get next page. I wanted to know what was going to happen in the next chapter. The part I enjoyed the most was the different characters.
I liked the fact that this book invoked technology that is what we live in today and government and all this together created this wonderful book.
Gavin and Alex i enjoyed a lot. That relationship was very interesting.
I highly recommend this book and sorry no “Spoilers”
Read this book. You won’t be disappointed.
I am an ARC reader and I was lucky enough to get a copy.
This book was a pleasure to read. I couldn’t wait to get to get next page. I wanted to know what was going to happen in the next chapter. The part I enjoyed the most was the different characters.
I liked the fact that this book invoked technology that is what we live in today and government and all this together created this wonderful book.
Gavin and Alex i enjoyed a lot. That relationship was very interesting.
I highly recommend this book and sorry no “Spoilers”
Read this book. You won’t be disappointed.
September 25, 2023
"Nova System" is a gripping thriller that thrusts the unsuspecting protagonist, Gavin, into a world of intrigue and danger. The story begins when a beautiful woman pays attention to Gavin, only to reveal herself as a spy, pulling him into a web of lies, manipulation, and conspiracy. As Gavin grapples with this new reality, he discovers that the NOVA system implanted in his head is the key to a Pandora's box of secrets about himself and his place in the world.
The novel expertly weaves together elements of espionage, science fiction, and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Gavin's journey to survive in a world rife with both foreign and domestic threats is a thrilling rollercoaster ride, and the NOVA system's mysterious capabilities add an intriguing layer of complexity to the plot.
The character of Alex, who becomes Gavin's ally in this treacherous world, adds depth to the narrative with her own set of challenges and secrets. Together, they navigate a world where trust is a precious commodity, and danger lurks around every corner.
The central mystery of the NOVA system serves as the driving force behind the narrative, keeping readers guessing about its true nature and why everyone seems to be after it. As Gavin unravels the system's secrets, the story delves into themes of identity, power, and the consequences of knowledge.
"Nova System" is a page-turner that combines a thrilling plot with well-crafted characters and a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of technology on our lives. Readers will find themselves engrossed in this tale of espionage and self-discovery, unable to put the book down until the final revelation. A must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers with a sci-fi twist.
The novel expertly weaves together elements of espionage, science fiction, and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Gavin's journey to survive in a world rife with both foreign and domestic threats is a thrilling rollercoaster ride, and the NOVA system's mysterious capabilities add an intriguing layer of complexity to the plot.
The character of Alex, who becomes Gavin's ally in this treacherous world, adds depth to the narrative with her own set of challenges and secrets. Together, they navigate a world where trust is a precious commodity, and danger lurks around every corner.
The central mystery of the NOVA system serves as the driving force behind the narrative, keeping readers guessing about its true nature and why everyone seems to be after it. As Gavin unravels the system's secrets, the story delves into themes of identity, power, and the consequences of knowledge.
"Nova System" is a page-turner that combines a thrilling plot with well-crafted characters and a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of technology on our lives. Readers will find themselves engrossed in this tale of espionage and self-discovery, unable to put the book down until the final revelation. A must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers with a sci-fi twist.
September 20, 2024
I devoured this amazing book in less then 24 hours. Once I got started I could not put it down. It grabbed my attention from the first few pages, I was so invested in Gavin, Alex, Charles and the rest of the gang. The writing is captivating and draws you into an incredible story filled with intrigue, mystery, action and so much more. If you haven’t picked this book up yet, why not?! You won’t regret it!
September 28, 2023
This book… where do I even start?!
The idea and premise for this book at brilliant! The execution is where I stalled. It’s written in third person with multiple POV that aren’t clearly labeled, so my brain hurt a little while I got into the groove of reading it.
The plot is really good. The storyline is unique. The characters and their growth are *chef’s kiss*
I would describe it as a spy suspense romance. Or somewhere in those parameters. The romance is all closed door, so no spice
The idea and premise for this book at brilliant! The execution is where I stalled. It’s written in third person with multiple POV that aren’t clearly labeled, so my brain hurt a little while I got into the groove of reading it.
The plot is really good. The storyline is unique. The characters and their growth are *chef’s kiss*
I would describe it as a spy suspense romance. Or somewhere in those parameters. The romance is all closed door, so no spice
March 7, 2025
The concept is intriguing, but this book could have done with quite a few more editing passes. It does a lot of telling, not showing. Tenses switch in the middle of paragraphs. The dialogue reads like a Neil Breen movie.
I wish I could finish it to see what all the five star reviews are about, but I just can't. Life is too short.
I wish I could finish it to see what all the five star reviews are about, but I just can't. Life is too short.
August 23, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. It has it all. Spies, nerds, action packed, a great story line. The characters are super relatable and I got attached to the main FMC and MMC. I can't wait to read the next one and see where this story ends up!!
November 6, 2024
I loved this book, the writing and the twists in this were amazing and kept me hooked all the way through!! Looking forward to reading the next one
September 15, 2024
When i was told this book was a YA read with ties to something I used to love... I dived into it. Jon has put so much heart and soul into all of his characters to the point where you can feel his story coming through. Gavin is the caring and sweet nerd who just wants to help everyone before himself, Alex is the strong, intelligent spy with her hidden past but a soft spot for someone 😏 Charles... Charles is amazing at getting the job done. With his different grunt numbers and their meanings and his eagle eye, nothing gets past him. Together, they are all unbeatable. It's an amazing read, and I 100% think you should give this a go, I shall be diving right into book 2!
August 31, 2024
The NOVA system will be an amazing book for anyone who loves action adventure and spy thrills. The book kept me on the edge of my seat and was very difficult to put down when I needed to. I also loved the addition of a sweet romance and how the book deals with insecurities we can all relate to at least a little. This is a five star book for me, and I can't wait to dive into the next one in the series. Highly recommended.
October 18, 2023
This was such a fun unique read! It's a modern tech thriller. I loved the characters, especially Gavin. You get to follow their thoughts, and i loved the relatablity of that. The story starts right away. You are in it from chapter one. You get just enough back ground information to follow the story and there is some good twists. It's a super easy read and you will have to know what happens! Great ending! I went into not really knowing the plot and I was super engaged and thought it was so great! Read this book you won't be disappointed!
October 5, 2025
The NOVA System
A very bright young man working a job below his ability. Living comfortably in the monotony and safety of an unassuming life. Then he gets a birthday greeting from a friend that changes his life. In an instant, government and other entities are vying to control him. As he is learning about what happened to him, he begins to want some autonomy for his own life and safety. As is the norm, that comes with a price. He must face his past and somehow seem them with a new perspective while keeping himself alive in the present.
#GoodreadsGiveaways
A very bright young man working a job below his ability. Living comfortably in the monotony and safety of an unassuming life. Then he gets a birthday greeting from a friend that changes his life. In an instant, government and other entities are vying to control him. As he is learning about what happened to him, he begins to want some autonomy for his own life and safety. As is the norm, that comes with a price. He must face his past and somehow seem them with a new perspective while keeping himself alive in the present.
#GoodreadsGiveaways
May 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is perfect for people who love books about tech stuff & spies! Really interesting plot line and a fun read too!
This book is perfect for people who love books about tech stuff & spies! Really interesting plot line and a fun read too!
December 15, 2024
For all the emotions felt throughout this book I can honestly say I have thoroughly enjoyed taking the journey with the nova system. High hopes going into book 2!
December 8, 2023
Hey, thrill-seekers! If you're looking for a mind-bending adventure, The NOVA System by Jon Scott Lee is your golden ticket to the coolest spy-fueled rollercoaster ever! Imagine being an average Joe and suddenly getting mixed up with a drop-dead gorgeous spy. Gavin's life goes from "meh" to "whoa" in a blink.
But here's the real deal: the NOVA system! It's like having a turbo-charged brain, and everyone wants a piece of it. What is it? What does it do? And why is Gavin the chosen one? You'll be flipping pages faster than a ninja in a hurry to find out. Lee's writing is like a thriller on steroids, with twists and turns that'll keep you guessing. So, if you're up for a heart-pounding ride with more questions than answers, The NOVA System is your must-read mission, should you choose to accept it!
But here's the real deal: the NOVA system! It's like having a turbo-charged brain, and everyone wants a piece of it. What is it? What does it do? And why is Gavin the chosen one? You'll be flipping pages faster than a ninja in a hurry to find out. Lee's writing is like a thriller on steroids, with twists and turns that'll keep you guessing. So, if you're up for a heart-pounding ride with more questions than answers, The NOVA System is your must-read mission, should you choose to accept it!
May 31, 2024
Ohmygosh! What an emotional roller coaster! Where to start?
I really enjoyed this book. It is so unique, romantic and action packed!
I read a lot of reviews comparing it to Chuck which I know was the authors intent but I’ve never watched it! So to me it was so interesting to read. It was giving me Nikita vibes!
I totally loved the mind game aspect of it. And I loved how the characters overcame it and really developed throughout the book.
I absolutely adored Alex and Gavin! Their back and forth relationship was so intriguing but it never overshadowed the action aspect of the novel. It is closed door spice for but I didn’t hate it. It was written well. You can tell that the author put in a lot of work into creating this world and story for his readers.
I think any one who loves tech, gaming and hacking will love this story.
I really enjoyed this book. It is so unique, romantic and action packed!
I read a lot of reviews comparing it to Chuck which I know was the authors intent but I’ve never watched it! So to me it was so interesting to read. It was giving me Nikita vibes!
I totally loved the mind game aspect of it. And I loved how the characters overcame it and really developed throughout the book.
I absolutely adored Alex and Gavin! Their back and forth relationship was so intriguing but it never overshadowed the action aspect of the novel. It is closed door spice for but I didn’t hate it. It was written well. You can tell that the author put in a lot of work into creating this world and story for his readers.
I think any one who loves tech, gaming and hacking will love this story.
December 11, 2023
An exhilarating mystery thriller that takes readers on a pulse-pounding journey through a world of espionage, lies, and high-stakes conspiracies. The story revolves around Gavin, an ordinary man whose life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes entangled with a beautiful spy. Lee's storytelling is gripping, and he masterfully weaves a complex web of deception and intrigue that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The book's strength lies in its well-crafted characters and the enigmatic NOVA system, which adds an element of mystery and suspense that is both thought-provoking and thrilling. As Gavin navigates this treacherous new world, readers will find themselves immersed in a plot filled with twists and turns, wondering who can be trusted and what secrets the NOVA system holds.
The book's strength lies in its well-crafted characters and the enigmatic NOVA system, which adds an element of mystery and suspense that is both thought-provoking and thrilling. As Gavin navigates this treacherous new world, readers will find themselves immersed in a plot filled with twists and turns, wondering who can be trusted and what secrets the NOVA system holds.
September 28, 2023
Not Ready For Primetime
Let’s see. An awkward yet affable computer nerd , a slacker best friend, a stunningly beautiful “cover” girlfriend, a protection agent who communicates mainly by grunting. Where have we met these characters before? Wasn’t there a TV show? Of course, it’s a novelization of Chuck. There are some changes. Gavin the nerd is an experienced hacker and adapts well to the changes in his brain after the Nova program enters his brain. The author grafts several incidents from the series into the narrative. We don’t get the workplace hijinks that provided the humor that was essential to the series, especially in balancing the implausible sci fi aspects.
At 377 pages the book is grossly overwritten and is essentially unedited. There are numerous instances of sudden tense changes. It was a chore to read.
Let’s see. An awkward yet affable computer nerd , a slacker best friend, a stunningly beautiful “cover” girlfriend, a protection agent who communicates mainly by grunting. Where have we met these characters before? Wasn’t there a TV show? Of course, it’s a novelization of Chuck. There are some changes. Gavin the nerd is an experienced hacker and adapts well to the changes in his brain after the Nova program enters his brain. The author grafts several incidents from the series into the narrative. We don’t get the workplace hijinks that provided the humor that was essential to the series, especially in balancing the implausible sci fi aspects.
At 377 pages the book is grossly overwritten and is essentially unedited. There are numerous instances of sudden tense changes. It was a chore to read.
October 28, 2023
This was a really engaging read that kept me guessing at every turn. I did struggle at some points but I think that was more to my lack of technical knowledge rather than lack of explanations by the author. At stages the dialogue seemed disjointed or unnatural to me but overall I loved this book, the general fun and wit of the characters helping to keep me invested in the story line.
Gavin is so freaking sweet and Alex is my favourite kind of badass woman! It is definitely on my recommendation list!
Gavin is so freaking sweet and Alex is my favourite kind of badass woman! It is definitely on my recommendation list!
December 10, 2023
I have seen similar scenarios in TV shows, but this book takes the theme of ‘super-computer’ in the brain/American spy agencies/villains aiming to control the world to a whole new level. A plot that twists and turns, and entertained me. I especially liked the parts of the narrative where you see what the characters are thinking about. Stand alone book, but an ending that suggests the baddies haven’t given up and need to be shot down some more. Thank you to BookBuzz.net, Jon Scott Lee and NetGalkey for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
November 3, 2023
This story is an action packed, page turning, hacker thriller with government tech and spies.
Quick read that kept me drawn in and engaged. The storyline is sure to keep you guessing and leave you enthralled in the NOVA system. Cant get enough of Gavin and Alex, the character building is fantastic.
Quick read that kept me drawn in and engaged. The storyline is sure to keep you guessing and leave you enthralled in the NOVA system. Cant get enough of Gavin and Alex, the character building is fantastic.
November 13, 2023
3.75 ⭐️, very fun concept loved reading this only thing holding me back from a 4⭐️ was some editing issues i noticed (grammar, punctuation) other than that this was a great read i love a good spy movie so reading a spy book was just as great if not better
November 25, 2025
I was wondering if this was written by AI. It started off promising and quickly became extremely choppy and lacking in transitions and authentic human interactions. Actually, AI would have made this flow better. One of the most poorly written things I have ever read. Super disappointed.
February 21, 2025
I TOTALLY FORGOT TO WRITE A REVIEW WHEN I READ THIS! SORRY!
This book is seriously everything I love to read. I love spy books and movies and don't even get me started on mind games- (God bless you Jennifer Lynn Barnes) I love them.
So this book- I was immediately hooked. We get introduced to a socially awkward but endearing guy, names Gavin, and you would have to be lying if you read the book in its entirety and said you didn't fall for Gavin JUST A LITTLE BIT. Like come onnn guys! He's CUTE.
This review will be just like any other of mine- LONG- so buckle your seatbelts (safety first) and let us begin with my own little character analysis.
The one- the only- Gavin: As I said before, socially awkward, endearing, nerd. But who the heck doesn't love nerds?? The book was amazing from his POV every waking minute and this interesting algorithm, the NOVA system, holy what?! I am not smart enough to understand half of it but I ate it up. This NOVA system gives Gavin some freakish abilities (but not like "freak" more like "unnatural" That still sounds kinda mean.), that are insanely cool. Gavin being the little awkard guy he is, is totally thrown into this world he can't begin to understand, becausessss- oh. right. no spoilers.
*sigh*
MOVING ON
To our favorite bad : ALEX!!
Honestly- just like any main girl in any book- shes amazing!! She can fight (heck yeah), shes super intelligent, and also- she understand the appeal of the nerd. Thank you. Alex, sadly though, has been through some REALLY tough stuff, to say the least, and it takes a toll on her mental health, and makes for a very interesting part of the book. (Gosh I'm evil, it was a torturous thing for Alex to experience but here I am- calling it interesting)
Whatever, sue me. IT WAS INTERESTING!!! ENTERTAINING!! I GIGGLED WITH EVIL GLEE THE WHOLE TIME!
There- the truth is out.
Charles: MWAHAHHAHAH!!! DUDE I LOVE THIS GUY. HE IS THE TEXTBOOK DEFINITION OF A NONCHOLANT DREADHEAD (minus the dreads) AND I AM HERE FOR IT!! He is an emotionally unavailable (most of the time) sweet little agent and just- my favorite. I'm sorry Gavin, Alex; This guy just beats you by a long shot.
As for the plot- it was just twists and turns and never ending missions, I loved it. I was interested the whole time and read the book on a 2-3 hour train ride through Germany.
That kinda added to the amazingness, to the point that it was TOP TIER.
Long story short- as I am positive few people will read my review- this book is most DEFINITELY worth reading.
"Are you sure?" you might ask
"POSITIVE" I will respond
"Are you SURE??"
"ABSOLUTELY"
"are you 100% POSITIVE"
"yes."
:)
Pre read- DUDE THIS COVER IS AMAZING WHAT
Halfway through- I think- Charles might be better than Alex.
End thoughts- okay Jon...BOOK #2 PLEASE??
apologies- I don't remember the dates I read the book :(
This book is seriously everything I love to read. I love spy books and movies and don't even get me started on mind games- (God bless you Jennifer Lynn Barnes) I love them.
So this book- I was immediately hooked. We get introduced to a socially awkward but endearing guy, names Gavin, and you would have to be lying if you read the book in its entirety and said you didn't fall for Gavin JUST A LITTLE BIT. Like come onnn guys! He's CUTE.
This review will be just like any other of mine- LONG- so buckle your seatbelts (safety first) and let us begin with my own little character analysis.
The one- the only- Gavin: As I said before, socially awkward, endearing, nerd. But who the heck doesn't love nerds?? The book was amazing from his POV every waking minute and this interesting algorithm, the NOVA system, holy what?! I am not smart enough to understand half of it but I ate it up. This NOVA system gives Gavin some freakish abilities (but not like "freak" more like "unnatural" That still sounds kinda mean.), that are insanely cool. Gavin being the little awkard guy he is, is totally thrown into this world he can't begin to understand, becausessss- oh. right. no spoilers.
*sigh*
MOVING ON
To our favorite bad : ALEX!!
Honestly- just like any main girl in any book- shes amazing!! She can fight (heck yeah), shes super intelligent, and also- she understand the appeal of the nerd. Thank you. Alex, sadly though, has been through some REALLY tough stuff, to say the least, and it takes a toll on her mental health, and makes for a very interesting part of the book. (Gosh I'm evil, it was a torturous thing for Alex to experience but here I am- calling it interesting)
Whatever, sue me. IT WAS INTERESTING!!! ENTERTAINING!! I GIGGLED WITH EVIL GLEE THE WHOLE TIME!
There- the truth is out.
Charles: MWAHAHHAHAH!!! DUDE I LOVE THIS GUY. HE IS THE TEXTBOOK DEFINITION OF A NONCHOLANT DREADHEAD (minus the dreads) AND I AM HERE FOR IT!! He is an emotionally unavailable (most of the time) sweet little agent and just- my favorite. I'm sorry Gavin, Alex; This guy just beats you by a long shot.
As for the plot- it was just twists and turns and never ending missions, I loved it. I was interested the whole time and read the book on a 2-3 hour train ride through Germany.
That kinda added to the amazingness, to the point that it was TOP TIER.
Long story short- as I am positive few people will read my review- this book is most DEFINITELY worth reading.
"Are you sure?" you might ask
"POSITIVE" I will respond
"Are you SURE??"
"ABSOLUTELY"
"are you 100% POSITIVE"
"yes."
:)
Pre read- DUDE THIS COVER IS AMAZING WHAT
Halfway through- I think- Charles might be better than Alex.
End thoughts- okay Jon...BOOK #2 PLEASE??
apologies- I don't remember the dates I read the book :(
February 8, 2024
After receiving an encrypted birthday message from his friend, one which knocks him to the ground, Gavin's life changes beyond recognition. Without knowing, his life is in danger and he now has something extremely powerful in his brain, something which people are willing to kill for.
The overall concept was good, the characters were likeable enough, however for me, it could have done with being maybe 75-100 pages shorter. For me personally, it would have packed more of a punch. However, it had plenty of twists and turns, really cool tech and of course, all the thrills of a good espionage saga!
The overall concept was good, the characters were likeable enough, however for me, it could have done with being maybe 75-100 pages shorter. For me personally, it would have packed more of a punch. However, it had plenty of twists and turns, really cool tech and of course, all the thrills of a good espionage saga!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews