The Precedence Effect: Sounds of Deception

by C.V. Wooster

Miles Harper is a man out of sync—not just with society but with life itself. Working as a janitor at a mid-level university, Miles navigates a world that often feels distant, disjointed, and incomprehensible. Socially isolated and weighed down by a turbulent past, his only solace comes from the constant presence of sound. Whether it’s the hum of the city, the rhythm of rock music in his earbuds, or the faint chirping of birds, sound provides him with an anchor in a life otherwise adrift.

One night, a routine cleaning shift unexpectedly places Miles at the center of a political rally that spirals into chaos. A beloved senator is assassinated, and the conflicting accounts of the shooting leave the nation reeling. Was it a lone gunman, or were the echoes of the event deliberately manipulated to obscure the truth? As the media spins its theories and the public demands answers, Miles begins to notice inconsistencies that others overlook—subtle distortions in sound that don’t add up.

Enter Professor Leonard Graham, a brilliant yet disillusioned academic whose career has been overshadowed by unfulfilled dreams. Graham, a devoted audiophile and expert in psychoacoustics, has spent years studying the intricacies of sound perception, including the psychological phenomenon known as the Precedence Effect. When Miles stumbles across Graham’s unpublished manuscript on the topic, he discovers cryptic notes hinting at government experiments and shadowy connections to the murdered senator.

Drawn together by circumstance, the unlikely pair embarks on a journey that forces them to confront their personal demons while uncovering the dark secrets lurking behind the university’s walls. The anechoic chamber on campus—a room devoid of echoes—becomes a symbolic refuge for Miles, a place where he begins to understand not only the mysteries surrounding the assassination but also the dissonance within himself.

As Miles and Graham delve deeper into the conspiracy, they encounter a mysterious figure whose presence raises more questions than answers. Manipulated audio recordings, coded messages, and dangerous encounters blur the lines between reality and deception, pushing Miles to rely on his unique sensitivity to sound to piece together the fragments of truth.

Themes of resonance and discord, connection and isolation, weave throughout the story, echoing in every interaction and discovery. The Precedence Effect becomes more than just a scientific phenomenon; it becomes a metaphor for human relationships, a reflection of how people often misinterpret and misunderstand one another.

The Precedence Sounds of Deception is a gripping political thriller that explores the power of sound, the fragility of truth, and the complexity of human connection. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, the novel invites readers to listen closely—to the clues, to the silence, and to the echoes that reveal more than meets the ear.

Kindle Edition

Published April 25, 2025

About the author

C. V. Wooster is an author, researcher, and dedicated educator with decades of experience in K-12 classrooms, where his passion for teaching, inspiring young minds, and challenging conventional wisdom has defined his career. His commitment to critical thinking, historical truth, and intellectual curiosity has influenced both his writing and his approach to education.

A lifelong learner, Wooster has earned numerous degrees and certifications, continuously expanding his knowledge in history, political systems, and educational innovation. His dedication to student success and academic excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious honors, including the Educator of the Year Award and an Excellence in Teaching Award. His pioneering work in integrating technology and interactive learning strategies has helped bridge the gap between traditional education and modern challenges, ensuring students are equipped with the tools they need to navigate an evolving world.

Beyond the classroom, Wooster’s contributions extend into historical research, government analysis, and investigative writing, where he explores power structures, economic manipulation, and the overlooked lessons of history. His work is a relentless pursuit of truth—whether it’s uncovering hidden historical narratives, exposing government overreach, or breaking down the mechanisms of control that shape society. His writing challenges readers to question the official record, recognize patterns of deception, and think independently.

An avid dog lover and advocate for animal welfare, Wooster balances his intellectual pursuits with a deep appreciation for nature and the simple joys of companionship. His unwavering commitment to truth, education, and storytelling continues to inspire students, colleagues, and readers alike. In a world where narratives are curated and history is often rewritten, Wooster remains steadfast in his mission: to seek truth, expose deception, and tell the stories that matter.