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NanoStrike
**** Indie Book Awards Finalist ****
Terrorists attack a London Underground train, slaughtering two-hundred innocents in seconds with a nanoweapon small enough to hide in a hint of perfume.
First responder, Detective Chief Inspector Quinnborne, defies orders and hunts for the weapon’s unhinged genius creator. The authorities label Quinnborne a traitor, but when the nanotechnology spirals out of control, his grit and bloody-minded determination become humankind’s last thin hope of surviving a weapon of mass destruction that can be deployed at will and against which there is no defense.
Terrorists attack a London Underground train, slaughtering two-hundred innocents in seconds with a nanoweapon small enough to hide in a hint of perfume.
First responder, Detective Chief Inspector Quinnborne, defies orders and hunts for the weapon’s unhinged genius creator. The authorities label Quinnborne a traitor, but when the nanotechnology spirals out of control, his grit and bloody-minded determination become humankind’s last thin hope of surviving a weapon of mass destruction that can be deployed at will and against which there is no defense.
242 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2012
167 people are currently reading
1612 people want to read
About the author
Pete Barber
8 books80 followersBorn into a blue-collar family in Liverpool, England, Pete immigrated to the US in the early 90s and settled in North Carolina.
He has led a haphazard life, putting bread on the table as a plumber, computer programmer, salesperson, marketing executive, hotel operator, real-estate developer, and llama breeder.
Pete loves chickens and dogs, and writes fast-paced fiction that makes people think.
He has led a haphazard life, putting bread on the table as a plumber, computer programmer, salesperson, marketing executive, hotel operator, real-estate developer, and llama breeder.
Pete loves chickens and dogs, and writes fast-paced fiction that makes people think.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 29, 2014
The current state of publishing is a double-edged sword. It has become much easier for new authors to publish their works and, of course, that means we readers must sort through the piles of coal to find the gleaming diamonds. And it also means those diamonds that are out there can see the light of day without being held back by traditional publishing processes. I am pleased to report that Pete Barber has written a diamond here, a multi-faceted, huge blue gleaming diamond. And I’ll do my part to spread the word and hope other readers discover this author.
This is a novel that deals with modern day terrorism as well as entrepreneurial greed, deception, and mayhem. It introduces us to some well-fleshed characters and some gripping action sequences. There are some nice high level politically-charged plot threads with various countries trying to work together. There is also some titillation thrown in. But I could say all of that about lots of these sorts of novels...it’s a crowded field. The added dimension of the technology surrounding this novel, programmable nanobots, is fascinating and extremely well done. By that I mean, the logic of the technology is presented perfectly; I knew exactly what was being described without all of the techy language and it sounds very reasonable. In fact Mr. Barber’s writing in general is amazingly well done and I struggle with the idea that this is his first published work.
But what it always comes down to is the question of story. Is it a good story? Is it paced well? Do I feel empathy towards the characters…not just the sympathetic characters but also the despicable ones. I still need to feel like I understand why they are doing what they are doing even if I don’t agree with their actions. Is the story just another take on what I’ve read countless times before or is it unique? I could go on and on about what makes a great read (at least for me) but suffice it to say that this novel has it in spades. I can really appreciate the approach the author has taken towards the nature of Islam and the prejudices inherent therein. But all that aside, this is a darn good read and I won’t be surprised if Pete Barber’s literary career goes nuclear. Highly recommended!
This is a novel that deals with modern day terrorism as well as entrepreneurial greed, deception, and mayhem. It introduces us to some well-fleshed characters and some gripping action sequences. There are some nice high level politically-charged plot threads with various countries trying to work together. There is also some titillation thrown in. But I could say all of that about lots of these sorts of novels...it’s a crowded field. The added dimension of the technology surrounding this novel, programmable nanobots, is fascinating and extremely well done. By that I mean, the logic of the technology is presented perfectly; I knew exactly what was being described without all of the techy language and it sounds very reasonable. In fact Mr. Barber’s writing in general is amazingly well done and I struggle with the idea that this is his first published work.
But what it always comes down to is the question of story. Is it a good story? Is it paced well? Do I feel empathy towards the characters…not just the sympathetic characters but also the despicable ones. I still need to feel like I understand why they are doing what they are doing even if I don’t agree with their actions. Is the story just another take on what I’ve read countless times before or is it unique? I could go on and on about what makes a great read (at least for me) but suffice it to say that this novel has it in spades. I can really appreciate the approach the author has taken towards the nature of Islam and the prejudices inherent therein. But all that aside, this is a darn good read and I won’t be surprised if Pete Barber’s literary career goes nuclear. Highly recommended!
May 29, 2014
This was a good thriller. It was fast paced and I learned a lot of new stuff from the book (i.e. about Islam, about Israel, Palestina and it's surrounding countries...as well when I read almost all the plot is in US, so it was fun to read about London for a change).
Considering this is the first book from this author it totally deserves 5*.
I will for sure read any new books he writes in the future.
Considering this is the first book from this author it totally deserves 5*.
I will for sure read any new books he writes in the future.
October 6, 2012
I’m a big thriller reader. Speculative fiction (fantasy, science fiction, and similar), not so much. What I liked about the speculative fiction portion of Allah’s Revenge is that it involved technology that, while not here today, could be. Nanotechnology is on the leading edge of science; the nanotech inventions and discoveries that figure in this story aren’t hard to imagine as possible in the near future.
There’s also a lot to like about the thriller portion of Allah’s Revenge. Building on a premise (both political and scientific) that could happen someday, it has a likeable protagonist, necessary in my opinion to draw the reader in. If you don’t care about the protagonist, it’s hard to care about his success.
What I found interesting is that, while not wanting the bad guys to succeed, I still found some of them sympathetic at times, and even the most evil of the conspirators was involved in doing something that could have had a positive effect on the world. Since thrillers are plot driven, character development often doesn’t get as much attention, resulting in secondary characters that are cartoonish or caricatures. Barber avoided this mistake, while still leaving no doubt about who the good guys and bad guys were. Thriller fans should find Allah’s Revenge, with its combination of timely concerns and speculation about what the future might hold, a very worthy read.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
There’s also a lot to like about the thriller portion of Allah’s Revenge. Building on a premise (both political and scientific) that could happen someday, it has a likeable protagonist, necessary in my opinion to draw the reader in. If you don’t care about the protagonist, it’s hard to care about his success.
What I found interesting is that, while not wanting the bad guys to succeed, I still found some of them sympathetic at times, and even the most evil of the conspirators was involved in doing something that could have had a positive effect on the world. Since thrillers are plot driven, character development often doesn’t get as much attention, resulting in secondary characters that are cartoonish or caricatures. Barber avoided this mistake, while still leaving no doubt about who the good guys and bad guys were. Thriller fans should find Allah’s Revenge, with its combination of timely concerns and speculation about what the future might hold, a very worthy read.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
March 4, 2015
A thrilling adventure with one hell of a detective!
I was hooked to this book from the very first page. This is a fast-paced thriller and quite a page-turner that has enhanced my reading pleasure but diminished my sleep time as I just couldn’t put it down. Detective Quinn was by far my favorite character, who was deliciously cute by being tough, but only on the outside.
The book comprised of a long list of lifelike characters that stayed with me, the main villain being particularly disturbing. I loved delving into the world of nanotechnology and found it all overwhelming and fascinating. This is a well-written book that can easily stand side by side, being of equal quality, with the high-octane thrillers written by largely celebrated authors of the genre. It is very seldom that I read a book of such a high ‘wow’ factor. Highly recommended!
I was hooked to this book from the very first page. This is a fast-paced thriller and quite a page-turner that has enhanced my reading pleasure but diminished my sleep time as I just couldn’t put it down. Detective Quinn was by far my favorite character, who was deliciously cute by being tough, but only on the outside.
The book comprised of a long list of lifelike characters that stayed with me, the main villain being particularly disturbing. I loved delving into the world of nanotechnology and found it all overwhelming and fascinating. This is a well-written book that can easily stand side by side, being of equal quality, with the high-octane thrillers written by largely celebrated authors of the genre. It is very seldom that I read a book of such a high ‘wow’ factor. Highly recommended!
August 23, 2016
Honestly, the beginning of this book almost had me put it aside as a DNF. The start is slow and seems to follow every other base plot in this genre. However, I did not put it aside. Honestly not sure why. But it became clear that this was a cross genre plot (pretty much as the title implies) and I started to really like Quin. Our hero. By the near end of the book I could not put it down. So in honesty this should be a 3.5 star review but I am happy to say that if you hang in there the story would repay your efforts in spades.
August 6, 2012
I wasn't sure what to think when I received this book. I read the first 2 pages and could not believe what I had just read - jaw dropping. I put the book down and thought about it. I went back to the book about an hour later and could not put the book down. This is a GREAT book - as oft the moment, I would say it is my favorite book. It's amazing, compelling, keeps you interested with every page that is turned. A++++ book.
August 1, 2012
Synopsis - New technology is ever a double-edged sword, ready to help the world or threaten it. So it is here, as the terrorist group Allah's Revenge sieze nanotechnology, designed to devour raw material and convert it into cheap fuel. In their hands, it's an airborn threat, invisible, silent, deadly. Easily hidden, easily dispersed. And should they choose to make it so, unstoppable...
OK. I have to say this first. I want to dislike this book. I really want to dislike it. And why? Because of the opening scene. A terrorist attack on the London underground. It's not that I find it in bad taste (taking aside the infamous 7/7 bombings). It's more that using the Tube every day, there's a couple of flaws in the execution and the description of the attack methodology. So that set it off on a bad foot for me.
Then, it moves into the old Muslim terrorists, mission from Allah territory. Again, I want to dislike this book.
It's therefore pleasantly surprising and gratifying to realise that actually, I don't dislike it. I actually enjoyed it. It's a well thought out, well written, well paced book. The characters are credible and likeable. The love story is well handled. The multiple threats are (in a nice change) given solid and logical backstories, providing an interesting insight into their motivation and behaviours. The McGuffin (Nanotechnology) is plausible as both a benefit and a threat. Dialogue never rings false. The action scenes (particularly the finale) are handled very well - thrilling and with a genuine sense of threat. The technology is described well enough to hook the layman, but without bogging us down in too much science.
The characters themselves are wonderfully written, identifiable and easy to empathise with. Quinn may, I suspect, evolve into one of those literary detectives that survives book after book. And good for him - he deserves it.
Barber's great skill here seems to be that he makes it all look easy. He avoids the cliches which would have been so easy, counterbalancing, for example, the evil Muslim terrorists, with human Muslims (their families, their likes, their dislikes, their relationships, their connection with Allah, etc).
The research, the cultural respect, the intelligence, the threat. All well handled. Staggering that this is Barber's only book on Amazon. He has produced a book that sucks the reader in (barring the Tube incident) and keeps them hooked. An ideal Summer read, and one I would recommend. Thoroughly enjoyable. (Not sure about the cover image, though).
OK. I have to say this first. I want to dislike this book. I really want to dislike it. And why? Because of the opening scene. A terrorist attack on the London underground. It's not that I find it in bad taste (taking aside the infamous 7/7 bombings). It's more that using the Tube every day, there's a couple of flaws in the execution and the description of the attack methodology. So that set it off on a bad foot for me.
Then, it moves into the old Muslim terrorists, mission from Allah territory. Again, I want to dislike this book.
It's therefore pleasantly surprising and gratifying to realise that actually, I don't dislike it. I actually enjoyed it. It's a well thought out, well written, well paced book. The characters are credible and likeable. The love story is well handled. The multiple threats are (in a nice change) given solid and logical backstories, providing an interesting insight into their motivation and behaviours. The McGuffin (Nanotechnology) is plausible as both a benefit and a threat. Dialogue never rings false. The action scenes (particularly the finale) are handled very well - thrilling and with a genuine sense of threat. The technology is described well enough to hook the layman, but without bogging us down in too much science.
The characters themselves are wonderfully written, identifiable and easy to empathise with. Quinn may, I suspect, evolve into one of those literary detectives that survives book after book. And good for him - he deserves it.
Barber's great skill here seems to be that he makes it all look easy. He avoids the cliches which would have been so easy, counterbalancing, for example, the evil Muslim terrorists, with human Muslims (their families, their likes, their dislikes, their relationships, their connection with Allah, etc).
The research, the cultural respect, the intelligence, the threat. All well handled. Staggering that this is Barber's only book on Amazon. He has produced a book that sucks the reader in (barring the Tube incident) and keeps them hooked. An ideal Summer read, and one I would recommend. Thoroughly enjoyable. (Not sure about the cover image, though).
November 3, 2014
This is a story about terrorism with a capitol T. Anyone who thinks it improbable need only watch the evening news. Nuclear armed missiles fired from the other side of the world are Tinker Toys compared to the agents of mass destruction that can fit into a terrorist's Thermos. Such is the premise of Pete Barber's hair-raising NanoStrike.
The terror starts with an attack on London's subway (tube) and its up to Chief Inspector Steven Quinnborne of the London Metro Police to track down the culprits. He's the kind of hero we love. Known simply as 'Quinn,' he goes against the grain of his superiors, seldom follows protocol, is very rough around the edges, and eventually makes more enemies among various law enforcement agencies than do the terrorists.
Quinn is a complex character. He is relentless in his pursuit of the bad guys but we sense that he is just as desperately trying to connect with his humanity, which has taken quite a beating over the course of his career. We cheer him on in both pursuits.
He is most encouraged by an innocent young couple who have just fallen in love but have become unwitting pawns in a diabolical terrorist plot. The odds against Quinn saving them, and the world, are at best nonexistent, but he picks up his lance anyway, mounts his noble steed (a beat-up Datsun) and charges into battle. We all hope there is a guy like Quinn out there someplace saving the world.
Barber keeps the action flowing at breakneck speed from page one but always takes time to allow us to get to know each character, good and bad, and understand what makes them tick. No cardboard stereotypes here. I especially like the way he lets each scene develop and play out fully. It allows the reader to immerse themselves in the story instead of feeling like a stone skipping across the surface of the pages - my pet peeve in too many books today.
Barber's dialogue and plot construction are pro all the way. The reader immediately feels there is a master at the helm and can sit back and enjoy the voyage. It's a voyage well worth taking. Highly recommended.
The terror starts with an attack on London's subway (tube) and its up to Chief Inspector Steven Quinnborne of the London Metro Police to track down the culprits. He's the kind of hero we love. Known simply as 'Quinn,' he goes against the grain of his superiors, seldom follows protocol, is very rough around the edges, and eventually makes more enemies among various law enforcement agencies than do the terrorists.
Quinn is a complex character. He is relentless in his pursuit of the bad guys but we sense that he is just as desperately trying to connect with his humanity, which has taken quite a beating over the course of his career. We cheer him on in both pursuits.
He is most encouraged by an innocent young couple who have just fallen in love but have become unwitting pawns in a diabolical terrorist plot. The odds against Quinn saving them, and the world, are at best nonexistent, but he picks up his lance anyway, mounts his noble steed (a beat-up Datsun) and charges into battle. We all hope there is a guy like Quinn out there someplace saving the world.
Barber keeps the action flowing at breakneck speed from page one but always takes time to allow us to get to know each character, good and bad, and understand what makes them tick. No cardboard stereotypes here. I especially like the way he lets each scene develop and play out fully. It allows the reader to immerse themselves in the story instead of feeling like a stone skipping across the surface of the pages - my pet peeve in too many books today.
Barber's dialogue and plot construction are pro all the way. The reader immediately feels there is a master at the helm and can sit back and enjoy the voyage. It's a voyage well worth taking. Highly recommended.
June 29, 2012
A Threat of Nanobots
Pete Barber has given us a fiction thriller about extremists who wish to do the United States harm. It is told in current time with painstaking research as it is a sensitive subject. The terrorist attack was carried out by an Islamic militant group called Allah’s Revenge. They killed two hundred innocent people in London, England and many world leaders at a G20 summit in Seoul, South Korea. The Vice President of the U.S. was killed in the G20 summit attack.
The Weapon of Mass Destruction is a mist of nanotechnology. Once released, people breathe in the mist and are dead within minutes. Allah’s Revenge recruits an Arab named Dawud Ferran, aka David Baker in the U.S. to do his dirty work with the WPD.
The main character is a British detective named Quinn. He puts his life and job on the line to get to the bottom of the terrorist’s plot to destroy the world. He travels to Jerusalem where he manages to take control of the WMD situation. Before he heads home, once again Quinn’s bravery is put to the test. The WMD is released in Phoenix, Arizona. Is Quinn successful in saving the world? Does he get home in one piece? You will have to read Allah’s Revenge to find out.
Pete Barber created many memorable characters in Allah’s Revenge. There are detectives, reporters, politicians, and of course terrorists. We get to see the inside of a terrorist attack through Pete Barber’s accurate research.
There’s even romance in Allah’s Revenge. A good story isn’t complete without a love interest, even in the midst of a terrorist attack.
The book is a definite page turner as the suspense keeps the reader engaged. It’s a well written action thriller with historical background to be enjoyed. The characters and places come to life for the reader.
Let’s just hope it stays fictional!
Pete Barber has given us a fiction thriller about extremists who wish to do the United States harm. It is told in current time with painstaking research as it is a sensitive subject. The terrorist attack was carried out by an Islamic militant group called Allah’s Revenge. They killed two hundred innocent people in London, England and many world leaders at a G20 summit in Seoul, South Korea. The Vice President of the U.S. was killed in the G20 summit attack.
The Weapon of Mass Destruction is a mist of nanotechnology. Once released, people breathe in the mist and are dead within minutes. Allah’s Revenge recruits an Arab named Dawud Ferran, aka David Baker in the U.S. to do his dirty work with the WPD.
The main character is a British detective named Quinn. He puts his life and job on the line to get to the bottom of the terrorist’s plot to destroy the world. He travels to Jerusalem where he manages to take control of the WMD situation. Before he heads home, once again Quinn’s bravery is put to the test. The WMD is released in Phoenix, Arizona. Is Quinn successful in saving the world? Does he get home in one piece? You will have to read Allah’s Revenge to find out.
Pete Barber created many memorable characters in Allah’s Revenge. There are detectives, reporters, politicians, and of course terrorists. We get to see the inside of a terrorist attack through Pete Barber’s accurate research.
There’s even romance in Allah’s Revenge. A good story isn’t complete without a love interest, even in the midst of a terrorist attack.
The book is a definite page turner as the suspense keeps the reader engaged. It’s a well written action thriller with historical background to be enjoyed. The characters and places come to life for the reader.
Let’s just hope it stays fictional!
July 17, 2012
When radical Islamic Terrorists release a new nanotech based weapon on a crowded train, Quinn must rush to find the culprits before the ravenous weapon is unleashed upon the world!
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
If you haven't read Pete Barber, you've been missing out! This is an absolutely stellar thriller from the first page to the last. Now, I must admit - he had me at nanotech. I'm a sucker for a story that uses nanotech in just about any aspect. However, it takes more than a concept to win over a reader and Barber does it in spades. This story is exciting, the plot moves with an unrelenting pace, and - forgive me if this sounds trite - you just won't want to put this one down until you've finished it.
I was a bit concerned that the book might be Anti-Islam - from the title to the plot, it was a worry for me. However, my worry was unfounded. Although there are characters who are very fundamentally Islamic in a very bad way, there are also wonderful characters of Muslim background.
In fact, the bits and pieces of Muslim culture (both traditional and modern) that the author explores in this book were fascinating and you can tell that Barber has an interest and respect for a culture that we hear far too many horror stories about.
Some of the descriptions in the book are graphic, but I didn't find them off-putting. They fit very well within the story the author was telling. There is one very disturbing rape scene. Although graphic, the most disturbing part about the scene is that it's written from the point of view of the rapist. It's incredibly uncomfortable and incredibly well-written. But again, it fits the story perfectly.
After reading Allah's Revenge, all I can say is that Pete Barber has a fan and I can't wait until his next offering.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
If you haven't read Pete Barber, you've been missing out! This is an absolutely stellar thriller from the first page to the last. Now, I must admit - he had me at nanotech. I'm a sucker for a story that uses nanotech in just about any aspect. However, it takes more than a concept to win over a reader and Barber does it in spades. This story is exciting, the plot moves with an unrelenting pace, and - forgive me if this sounds trite - you just won't want to put this one down until you've finished it.
I was a bit concerned that the book might be Anti-Islam - from the title to the plot, it was a worry for me. However, my worry was unfounded. Although there are characters who are very fundamentally Islamic in a very bad way, there are also wonderful characters of Muslim background.
In fact, the bits and pieces of Muslim culture (both traditional and modern) that the author explores in this book were fascinating and you can tell that Barber has an interest and respect for a culture that we hear far too many horror stories about.
Some of the descriptions in the book are graphic, but I didn't find them off-putting. They fit very well within the story the author was telling. There is one very disturbing rape scene. Although graphic, the most disturbing part about the scene is that it's written from the point of view of the rapist. It's incredibly uncomfortable and incredibly well-written. But again, it fits the story perfectly.
After reading Allah's Revenge, all I can say is that Pete Barber has a fan and I can't wait until his next offering.
July 25, 2012
I didn’t know what to expect from this book, but after reading the sample I decided to jump in. This is a fast paced story of terrorism, nano technology, genius and prejudice. The story involves the Muslin rite of passage and a genius who Allah talked with and told him to do his bidding(at least he though Allah talked with him.) The nano idea was fascinating and the idea of making ethanol so easily out of garbage is what scientist are trying to figure out today. Garbage being turned into fuel is the dream of the future and yet could it be a plaque if it falls into the wrong hands.
The deaths are pretty gruesome yet so interesting. An airborne chemical that can be timed to kill so no one is there to be blamed. Mass casualties, yet unexplained how they died. A subway car in London- where all aboard are dead, a peace summit in Korea with high security- all found dead. What’s next? I have to say that this book kept me turning the pages and interested to the very end. I loved the police inspector, Quinn, he made the book and I hope to see more from this character.
This book is frightening when you think of what could be out there being developed right now. A weapon that is microscopic, yet can reproduce itself and do whatever it is coded to do. Nano technology that can change the world for the better and yet can also be used to destroy the world. A great concept that will make you think about the good and bad of this fast paced world we live in…this technology could be just around the corner.
Give this mystery/thriller and chance and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
The deaths are pretty gruesome yet so interesting. An airborne chemical that can be timed to kill so no one is there to be blamed. Mass casualties, yet unexplained how they died. A subway car in London- where all aboard are dead, a peace summit in Korea with high security- all found dead. What’s next? I have to say that this book kept me turning the pages and interested to the very end. I loved the police inspector, Quinn, he made the book and I hope to see more from this character.
This book is frightening when you think of what could be out there being developed right now. A weapon that is microscopic, yet can reproduce itself and do whatever it is coded to do. Nano technology that can change the world for the better and yet can also be used to destroy the world. A great concept that will make you think about the good and bad of this fast paced world we live in…this technology could be just around the corner.
Give this mystery/thriller and chance and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
August 16, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed “Allah’s Revenge.” From beginning to end it is a top notch thriller. It reminded me of books written by Michael Crichton or Preston & Childs, especially when it came to the frenetic pacing, the use of cutting-edge technology, and the everyday hero. And the villains could’ve come straight out of a Bond novel. All the characters were great, really. Extremely well-written.
I applaud Mr. Barber for coming up with a terrorist scenario that is both believable and increasingly more likely. (And for not bowing to political correctness!) He even explores some of the root causes for world terrorism. I applaud that as well.
Seriously, this book is great all the way around. A surprising feat for a first-time novelist. If
I were to critique anything, it would be one scenario where some of the bad guys meet their untimely end. I think as a reader I might have enjoyed being more a part of that, as opposed to seeing just the end result. But that is extreme nitpicking on my part, because honestly, this was a really fun book for me.
Worth all five stars. I highly recommend it!
(** Note to parents and young readers: There is a smattering of adult language here, as well as some sexual situations—but none of it is what I would call gratuitous or above the norm for this type of thriller. Again, if you’ve read the authors mentioned above, you’ve probably read similar.)
I applaud Mr. Barber for coming up with a terrorist scenario that is both believable and increasingly more likely. (And for not bowing to political correctness!) He even explores some of the root causes for world terrorism. I applaud that as well.
Seriously, this book is great all the way around. A surprising feat for a first-time novelist. If
I were to critique anything, it would be one scenario where some of the bad guys meet their untimely end. I think as a reader I might have enjoyed being more a part of that, as opposed to seeing just the end result. But that is extreme nitpicking on my part, because honestly, this was a really fun book for me.
Worth all five stars. I highly recommend it!
(** Note to parents and young readers: There is a smattering of adult language here, as well as some sexual situations—but none of it is what I would call gratuitous or above the norm for this type of thriller. Again, if you’ve read the authors mentioned above, you’ve probably read similar.)
September 6, 2012
Terrorist fiction is on the rise and Allah's Revenge is at the top of the list of a possibility that could create death and mayhem enough to destroy any nation or nations. This plot involves the creation of a nanobot that could be used for energy production (the obvious disguise herein) but instead is used to dispense a chemical that instantly kills its victims, leaving a deadly charcoal residue. Horrors!
The plot is simple but potent. After the first attack on a British subway, the race is on to find both the killer and the technology that created such a viral disaster. In the process, others will die and as usual any and all Arabs are suspect. One journalist who is an okay Arab is mistaken as such initially but then manages to reclaim freedom and vows to take down whoever is behind this insane plot.
The goal seems almost ludicrous in the light of the devastation being unleashed, the freeing of Palestinian prisoners.
The story gives a very good description of how a terrorist is groomed for what comes to be believed as a divine mission for Allah. One senses the slip from rational to psychotic will and tenacity that guarantees success.
Yes, the plot for more assassinations will be foiled but it's a roller coaster ride that Pete Barber crafts to rivet the reader and create tension and an almost sick feeling as the story progresses.
Nicely done, Pete Barber and may it never happen in reality!
The plot is simple but potent. After the first attack on a British subway, the race is on to find both the killer and the technology that created such a viral disaster. In the process, others will die and as usual any and all Arabs are suspect. One journalist who is an okay Arab is mistaken as such initially but then manages to reclaim freedom and vows to take down whoever is behind this insane plot.
The goal seems almost ludicrous in the light of the devastation being unleashed, the freeing of Palestinian prisoners.
The story gives a very good description of how a terrorist is groomed for what comes to be believed as a divine mission for Allah. One senses the slip from rational to psychotic will and tenacity that guarantees success.
Yes, the plot for more assassinations will be foiled but it's a roller coaster ride that Pete Barber crafts to rivet the reader and create tension and an almost sick feeling as the story progresses.
Nicely done, Pete Barber and may it never happen in reality!
August 15, 2012
This story by Pete Barber in stunning. It has kept me deeply absorbed on every page. It deals with new nano-robotics technology from which a nanobot is developed which can be used by evil terrorist groups, or for the good to create an alternate fuel source. There are several main characters from different countries. The author has headed each new chapter page with a flag graphic so it is easy to follow each character. It starts in the U.S. with young David Ferran who is a devout Muslim and is instrumental in the development of this nanobot. Another major character, also a muslim, is British journalist, Abdul-Hagg, who has access to middle eastern groups to cover news worthy activity. And the next major character is the brave and determined British Chief Inspector Steven Quinnborne (Quinn) who pursues leads to identify the terrorist group that killed over 200 British citizens on London's rail system. Cause of death? Deadly spray of stolen nanobots that is breathed into one's body and instantly kills. The action in this story is intense and I found it difficult to put down my Kindle. This novel gives the reader a wider view of terrorism and the drive that such groups have, but also the devotion of a few to prevent such terrorist activity. An awesome, intense, and hard-driven novel which is well written and makes one aware of what faces many countries today.
September 18, 2012
Although I enjoyed the complexity of the technological and scientific ideas, which play a major role in the storyline, those same ideas worried me. Just having someone create and reproduce such a scenario was frightening to contemplate. I often wonder if it isn't dancing with the devil when a writer manages to create a concept that could give a third party the extra incentive they need.
However I also believe that uniqueness is also what makes a book like this a memorable experience.
For me it felt as if the subplots didn't always connect well and sometimes bumped awkwardly. I would like to point out that each one of those subplots, the pedophilic fetishist, the young American swayed by faith to acts of terrorism or the subtle hint at the debasement of civil and human rights due to the Terrorism Act, well they are strong enough to survive as main plots. Sound as if there is a lot going on? Well those are just a few of the areas the author delves into.
I think it needs a final gloss to iron out the tiny bubbles of discontent where the sub-plots mesh and personally I wasn't sure the area of females in that specific region and religion were completely realistic. Lana's fathers reaction in the car to Quinn's questions and how the family reacted upon her return, were a contradiction.
All in all it was a good read. I received a free copy of this book for my review.
However I also believe that uniqueness is also what makes a book like this a memorable experience.
For me it felt as if the subplots didn't always connect well and sometimes bumped awkwardly. I would like to point out that each one of those subplots, the pedophilic fetishist, the young American swayed by faith to acts of terrorism or the subtle hint at the debasement of civil and human rights due to the Terrorism Act, well they are strong enough to survive as main plots. Sound as if there is a lot going on? Well those are just a few of the areas the author delves into.
I think it needs a final gloss to iron out the tiny bubbles of discontent where the sub-plots mesh and personally I wasn't sure the area of females in that specific region and religion were completely realistic. Lana's fathers reaction in the car to Quinn's questions and how the family reacted upon her return, were a contradiction.
All in all it was a good read. I received a free copy of this book for my review.
August 14, 2012
**I was a winner of this book through Goodreads first read!
A fictional thriller about two different countries using the same nanotechnology for two completely different reasons, yet tied together by one individual. One believes that it will be the next new fuel, while the other believes and executes multiple terrorist attacks throughout the world.
This page turner keeps you entertained and on the edge of your seat while reading. However, at first the book is slightly confusing until you have understood the character development and what is nanotechnology is being used for. The characters are greatly developed! It is like you know these people and what they are thinking before you read what they are really doing. Through all of the drama that happens in the book, there is a love story some what hidden in the story. I really enjoyed the beginning of each chapter when I would see a flag before the chapter started. It gave me a great sense of what was to come, as well as to give me a sense of who the chapter would be talking mainly about.
This book was absolutely wonderful and would have been done in one day had I had the time to sit down and read it all at once. I look forward to reading more of Pete Barber's work once it comes out!
A fictional thriller about two different countries using the same nanotechnology for two completely different reasons, yet tied together by one individual. One believes that it will be the next new fuel, while the other believes and executes multiple terrorist attacks throughout the world.
This page turner keeps you entertained and on the edge of your seat while reading. However, at first the book is slightly confusing until you have understood the character development and what is nanotechnology is being used for. The characters are greatly developed! It is like you know these people and what they are thinking before you read what they are really doing. Through all of the drama that happens in the book, there is a love story some what hidden in the story. I really enjoyed the beginning of each chapter when I would see a flag before the chapter started. It gave me a great sense of what was to come, as well as to give me a sense of who the chapter would be talking mainly about.
This book was absolutely wonderful and would have been done in one day had I had the time to sit down and read it all at once. I look forward to reading more of Pete Barber's work once it comes out!
May 15, 2013
Pete Barber has this ability to make characters that are both incredibly creepy and human at the same time. Nazar Eudon is the type of guy you want to strangle, but you do see as a full person. A creepy person, but someone you might unfortunately meet.
Another one of Pete's skills is continually increasing the tension. As the book goes on the stakes grow higher, both personally and worldwide. He skillfully weaves these two together leaving the reader worried for both the individuals and the world. It would be easy to have one overpower the other, but he balances it nicely.
One trend in modern science fiction that I love is showing how technology is a double edged sword. The same technology that can end all of human poverty and suffering, can also end all of human life. That theme runs through Allah's Revenge.
Overall Allah's Revenge is an exciting techno-thriller that moves quickly. It uses the entire world as it's stage, but stresses the personal danger that the well rounded characters are in. It's very easy to lose yourself in the world Pete Barber has created.
Another one of Pete's skills is continually increasing the tension. As the book goes on the stakes grow higher, both personally and worldwide. He skillfully weaves these two together leaving the reader worried for both the individuals and the world. It would be easy to have one overpower the other, but he balances it nicely.
One trend in modern science fiction that I love is showing how technology is a double edged sword. The same technology that can end all of human poverty and suffering, can also end all of human life. That theme runs through Allah's Revenge.
Overall Allah's Revenge is an exciting techno-thriller that moves quickly. It uses the entire world as it's stage, but stresses the personal danger that the well rounded characters are in. It's very easy to lose yourself in the world Pete Barber has created.
June 29, 2014
I won this book through Goodreads First Reads. Terrorists stage an attack on the London tub, killing hundreds in barely a few seconds, using nanotechnology to deadly effect. This is meant as a warning shot - a display of power, hoping their demands will be met.
Detective Chief Inspector Quinnborne, believing he's found a credible lead, heads out alone to hunt him down. A hunt that labels him a traitor as the attacks get more and more powerful and he ends up right in the lions den.
A pacy, little thriller - starts off strong and just keeps on going. Quinn is a great lead character and you really start to feel for the main group involved in the plot of this book. I think it's very intelligent and well planned, clearly a lot of background work, particularly in Muslim rites and rituals, has gone into this novel. Pity it isn't just a little longer ...
Detective Chief Inspector Quinnborne, believing he's found a credible lead, heads out alone to hunt him down. A hunt that labels him a traitor as the attacks get more and more powerful and he ends up right in the lions den.
A pacy, little thriller - starts off strong and just keeps on going. Quinn is a great lead character and you really start to feel for the main group involved in the plot of this book. I think it's very intelligent and well planned, clearly a lot of background work, particularly in Muslim rites and rituals, has gone into this novel. Pity it isn't just a little longer ...
June 6, 2012
Allah's Revenge is a roller coaster ride straddling the genres of science fiction and crime drama. A British detective and a young Palestinian journalist race a group of terrorist called Allah's Revenge as they threaten world leadership with cutting edge nano-technology. Barber's well researched settings and attention to detail do what all good science fiction does--makes the nonexistent feel real.
What makes this a 5/5 review, though, is the characters. From the hard-boiled detective to the devout inventor of the nano-technology, the characters rise off the page bringing the story to vivid life. Layered and complex, they blur the lines between good and evil, providing the story with unexpected twists and turns. Tightly written, this page turner should make a great summer read.
What makes this a 5/5 review, though, is the characters. From the hard-boiled detective to the devout inventor of the nano-technology, the characters rise off the page bringing the story to vivid life. Layered and complex, they blur the lines between good and evil, providing the story with unexpected twists and turns. Tightly written, this page turner should make a great summer read.
August 20, 2012
This is a fast-paced thriller that brings together technology and terrorism. Dawud, a brilliant scientist, develops nanobots that can be programmed to create fuel by consuming garbage. After having a religious experience, he turns the technology into a weapon that can kill large amounts of people, just by breathing it. It is scary, thinking that such a thing could possibly exist. The story was well-written and kept me on edge until the very end. The characters were fantastic and helped to keep me reading because I cared about what happened. It wasn't just about terrorists, but about people. The story sounded interesting, but ended up being better than I expected. Plenty of nail-biting suspense kept me riveted.
May 26, 2014
I love thrillers and I come at them sideways when written by a new author and self-published. Pete Barber aced it! NanoStrike is superb. If it was a paperback, the pages would have turned themselves. Nanostrike is tightly plotted, the characters are richly developed, the story fast-paced. Not a word or a comma out of place, formatting is perfect--there is nothing to distract you from the tale. I read in one sitting! Stayed up all night.
NanoStrike by Pete Barber $2.99: http://amzn.to/1k3wEva
Jackie Weger
NanoStrike by Pete Barber $2.99: http://amzn.to/1k3wEva
Jackie Weger
June 24, 2014
Really a 3.5 star book. The technology is here where miniature robots can be programmed to replicate and create new structures. A scientist has done just that, and programmed them to consume carbon-based material and convert it to ethanol. Unfortunately others have a more sinister plan for these nanobots.
This is a good techno-thriller. Our heroes are well written and easy to relate to. They are not your typical action heroes, but there is plenty of action in the book.
If you like thrillers with a technology edge and/or a terrorist theme, this would be a good book to read.
This is a good techno-thriller. Our heroes are well written and easy to relate to. They are not your typical action heroes, but there is plenty of action in the book.
If you like thrillers with a technology edge and/or a terrorist theme, this would be a good book to read.
June 2, 2014
Great thriller - Terrorists attack a London Underground train, slaughtering two-hundred innocents in seconds with a nanoweapon small enough to hide in a hint of perfume.
A shockwave of fear grips the western world—the crazies have a weapon of mass destruction that can be deployed at will and against which there is no defense
A shockwave of fear grips the western world—the crazies have a weapon of mass destruction that can be deployed at will and against which there is no defense
June 21, 2014
NanoStrike is a well written techno-thriller that combines a terrorist plot with plausible future technology. Some of the early background is a bit over long and the science vague but still it delivers a fun ride. Good characters and enough plot twists to keep the reader guessing, I can unreservedly recommend this book to fans of Michael Crichton and Dale Brown.
June 12, 2014
Thrilling read
excellent twist on the usual terrorist formula, the nano technology is both exciting and frightening. frantic pace, never lets up, with likable characters. could have had a bit more character building. well worth the few bucks to buy it.
excellent twist on the usual terrorist formula, the nano technology is both exciting and frightening. frantic pace, never lets up, with likable characters. could have had a bit more character building. well worth the few bucks to buy it.
June 16, 2014
Characters that you can connect to in some way, a laid back way of writing that you don't even realize you've finished. It's a bit of a techothriller as well as terrorist twist to it. I did really enjoy the book.
July 8, 2014
A very enjoyable read
intrigue, mystery, fast paced and a very surprisingly knowledge of the hajj and Muslims. I lived in Saudi Arabia and several other middle eastern countries,it was very accurate
intrigue, mystery, fast paced and a very surprisingly knowledge of the hajj and Muslims. I lived in Saudi Arabia and several other middle eastern countries,it was very accurate
May 26, 2014
Good read, interesting characters, exciting plot and a story that moves along an dkeeps you interested.
November 9, 2014
Thrilling and fast paced! The book was engaging and exciting; a real page turner!
June 3, 2014
Not bad. It moved well. Creepy but entertaining
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