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Cyrus Cooper Thriller #1
Dangerous Minds
When test subjects participating in secret experiments begin to die mysteriously, Cyrus Cooper, the youngest agent of the ‘Coalition’—a secret law enforcement organization—is assigned to prevent the program’s lead researcher from being the next victim. But there’s a The seventy-four-year-old neuroscientist, Gertrude Waterford, has flatly refused any type of protective detail. Cyrus goes undercover, taking a position as a personal assistant in order to enter the life of the brash, elderly scientist. When multiple attempts are made on her life, however, not only must Cyrus protect the headstrong lady, but he must also uncover the truth behind the mysterious attacks before it’s too late.
His job might’ve been easier if he’d been fully briefed on the nature of Waterford’s research. After working for decades to genetically trigger different paranormal gifts in her patients, she’s made some unusually powerful and extremely dangerous enemies. Cyrus uncovers a world of genetic manipulation, with specific efforts aimed at mind control, telepathic communication, and remote viewing. The further he digs, the harder it becomes to decide whether the threat against Waterford is from the outside, or a rogue patient who is already close to Waterford.
Cyrus Cooper’s efforts take him from high-rise apartments to secret underground research facilities, with stops at forgotten rendition sites and forsaken mental institutions along the way. And as the threats grow in force and number, Cyrus faces a race against time, and a war where all the players on the battlefield are anything but trustworthy. The young spy must sort fact from fiction while protecting Gertrude Waterford and trying to solve the mystery of who is out destroy her work.
PRAISE FOR DANGEROUS MINDS
"Weaver's debut is a tense ride through the seamier sides of science, technology, the mind, and the paranormal. Gripping action and intrigue, brilliant escapes, and a whole lot of fun. Cyrus Cooper is a fascinating new hero."
—Kane Gilmour, Bestselling Author of Ragnarok and Resurrect
"Xander Weaver delivers a debut thriller with energy, depth, and twists rarely seen from experienced authors. A must-read for any thriller lover."
—Seeley James, author of BRING IT, and other Pia Sabel thrillers
His job might’ve been easier if he’d been fully briefed on the nature of Waterford’s research. After working for decades to genetically trigger different paranormal gifts in her patients, she’s made some unusually powerful and extremely dangerous enemies. Cyrus uncovers a world of genetic manipulation, with specific efforts aimed at mind control, telepathic communication, and remote viewing. The further he digs, the harder it becomes to decide whether the threat against Waterford is from the outside, or a rogue patient who is already close to Waterford.
Cyrus Cooper’s efforts take him from high-rise apartments to secret underground research facilities, with stops at forgotten rendition sites and forsaken mental institutions along the way. And as the threats grow in force and number, Cyrus faces a race against time, and a war where all the players on the battlefield are anything but trustworthy. The young spy must sort fact from fiction while protecting Gertrude Waterford and trying to solve the mystery of who is out destroy her work.
PRAISE FOR DANGEROUS MINDS
"Weaver's debut is a tense ride through the seamier sides of science, technology, the mind, and the paranormal. Gripping action and intrigue, brilliant escapes, and a whole lot of fun. Cyrus Cooper is a fascinating new hero."
—Kane Gilmour, Bestselling Author of Ragnarok and Resurrect
"Xander Weaver delivers a debut thriller with energy, depth, and twists rarely seen from experienced authors. A must-read for any thriller lover."
—Seeley James, author of BRING IT, and other Pia Sabel thrillers
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2014
6 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Xander Weaver
10 books16 followersAfter a career spent in the realm of computer programming, much of Xander Weaver's early work focused on the development of custom online shopping systems. An accomplished web developer with more than fifteen years of experience, his childhood dream remained the same: to become an author and take readers on thrilling adventures. That dream was realized when he introduced the action/suspense character of Cyrus Cooper to the world. His love and passion for technology are often found at the heart of his books, because, as he professes, "I write the kind of stories that I love to read."
Xander now lives in Northern Illinois with his wife and overindulged turtle. Having come full circle, their home is just a few short miles away from where Xander grew up--the home where his imagination began to shine.
Xander now lives in Northern Illinois with his wife and overindulged turtle. Having come full circle, their home is just a few short miles away from where Xander grew up--the home where his imagination began to shine.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 1, 2014
In this pulse-racing, emotionally charged debut, Cyrus Cooper is assigned as personal security to a top researcher only to find everyone is after her research and no one is who they seem. Are the studies creating victims or discovering new areas of the brain? Which agency can he trust when none of the earn it?
Xander Weaver unravels a story about a capable young man on a simple assignment who uncovers either a genius or a monster, depending on who he believes. When his boss changes his mission to something that couldn't be legitimate, Cyrus must rely on his instincts and people he doesn't know for answers.
In the midst of this exciting tale is a tender love story missing from most thrillers.
This one is definitely worth the read!
Peace, Seeley
Xander Weaver unravels a story about a capable young man on a simple assignment who uncovers either a genius or a monster, depending on who he believes. When his boss changes his mission to something that couldn't be legitimate, Cyrus must rely on his instincts and people he doesn't know for answers.
In the midst of this exciting tale is a tender love story missing from most thrillers.
This one is definitely worth the read!
Peace, Seeley
February 10, 2018
So many people think they can write these days, and often you pick up someone’s debut novel and realize that no, no they can’t. This is NOT that book. This is a fantastic debut from a great writer who should have nothing but success ahead of him. Xander Weaver has penned a well-written, fast-paced action thriller that is clever and scary (as to what can be achieved with science). You won’t be sorry to buy this book!!
June 27, 2014
This book was a tasty action thriller with a very nice sci-fi topping. I usually like my creature features when it comes to books, but because of social media, I've become more aware of the other kinds of novels I've been missing out on. This is a good example. The story is creative yet slightly familiar, but only in a good way. I really liked the characters, especially Gertrude, she's something else!! The writing is descriptive but to the point, the dialogue is realistically human, the action is good and well written. I just hope there are more. It feels like a pilot "episode" to me. Cyrus needs more "screen time". If the description of this book intrigues you, but you are reading this because you aren't sure, just buy it already. I look forward to more novels by Mr. Weaver!
July 9, 2014
Dangerous Minds by Xander Weaver was quite an interesting read! All I could think was, wow this could be an X-Men Origins story for sure! The plot throws a twist at you that leaves you speechless and the ending is enough of a cliff-hanger to ensure you want more. Cannot wait to see what comes next.
November 15, 2024
Not only is this a great, action-packed thriller, but the audiobook version is excellent as well. The storyline was fast paced and intense, and kept me wondering what would happen next. It was an excellent read, and I look forward to more in the series.
October 30, 2018
Great read. Love this book
November 17, 2014
I really enjoyed this debut novel, by author Xander Weaver.
The story and plot is compelling, engaging and interesting.
Weaver has managed to mingle genre's in a fascinating way, a bit of medical Sci-fi with Mystery, Thriller, Suspense and a bit of a paranormal or Urban Fantasy feel to it making Dangerous Minds: A Cyrus Cooper Thriller: Book One feel unique and new, which is very important to a reader like I am that reads hundreds of books a year.
There are some obvious, new author/first book issues, primarily with character and world development and more tell than show, but overall a great new addition to the fiction world and I look forward to reading more both by this author, and in this series.
The story and plot is compelling, engaging and interesting.
Weaver has managed to mingle genre's in a fascinating way, a bit of medical Sci-fi with Mystery, Thriller, Suspense and a bit of a paranormal or Urban Fantasy feel to it making Dangerous Minds: A Cyrus Cooper Thriller: Book One feel unique and new, which is very important to a reader like I am that reads hundreds of books a year.
There are some obvious, new author/first book issues, primarily with character and world development and more tell than show, but overall a great new addition to the fiction world and I look forward to reading more both by this author, and in this series.
July 17, 2020
Xander Weaver hits the stands with an exciting first book. I know it is hard to give a new author a try but you need to read this book. If you are a fan of Jeremy Robinson or Tom Clancy you are sure to love this book. Well paced and written with first rate dialogue you are sure to be a quick fan. Here is hoping we see many more to come from Weaver.
June 12, 2014
This is one impressive debut book! I lost sleep since I was up so late reading! I can often put a book down and be content with leaving it for a day or two but not this one. The characters are compelling, and the plot keeps moving. I can't wait for book #2!
June 8, 2014
Love the characters and the fact it's not always clear whose side is whose. It's a roller coaster full of twists and turns all the way to the dramatic climax. A fun ride and worth the read! Can't wait for book 2!
January 1, 2016
Protip: Do not set up the plot by killing someone interesting in the first 5 pages.
It also didn't help that in the next 30 pages nothing very interesting happened, and it was all unclear. So I'm bailing.
Disappointing.
It also didn't help that in the next 30 pages nothing very interesting happened, and it was all unclear. So I'm bailing.
Disappointing.
August 17, 2014
Well written, fast paced with a bang on plot.
Full review to follow.
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Full review to follow.
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
January 28, 2020
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Undercover work is never easy or dull, but for Cyrus, it's always exciting. How hard can it be to guard one grumpy old researcher? As it turns out...very. Interesting and well written characters fuels this tale of intrigue and survival. There's something for everyone in this series, suspense, action, betrayal, humour, and hope, a very nicely rounded novel. Looking forward to the next one.
August 4, 2014
Xander Weaver’s debut novel will have you screaming for the next installment of his Cyrus Cooper series. In this first installment, we are taken into a world of secret governmental agencies and science in a way that is fresh and exciting.
Cyrus, an operative for a group known as the Coalition, is asked to infiltrate the life of Gertrude Waterford, an elderly, crotchety woman, who besides making everyone around her miserable, is also a neuroscientist running a classified project. His mission—keep her alive. Cyrus soon finds out that not everything is as it seems; in fact, this entire assignment is twisted. Twisted like a double helix.
An op that should be straightforward becomes convoluted when Cyrus meets Gertrude’s grandchildren—Ashley and William—both of whom have special genetic abilities.
We have all fantasized about having the ability to read people’s minds or being able to control others’ actions, but what if you really could? Would it be an asset or would it become disabling? What if you couldn’t leave your own home without hearing voices and all the vile things they thought about? What then?
Xander Weaver takes us into a world of genetic engineering that is too real to dismiss. The atrocities and scientific breakthroughs found within this thriller will leave you gasping for air and thankful for your “short comings.”
How far will someone go in the pursuit of “science,” and how far will the government go to acquire such knowledge?
“Dangerous Minds” is a riveting thriller with so many twists that you won’t be sure who the good guys are until the last page, and then you still may wonder.
I have just added Xander Weaver to my ‘authors not to miss’ file, and I eagerly await the next Cyrus Cooper thriller.
Reviewed by J.M. LeDuc, author of “Sin,” published by Suspense Publishing, an imprint of Suspense Magazine
Cyrus, an operative for a group known as the Coalition, is asked to infiltrate the life of Gertrude Waterford, an elderly, crotchety woman, who besides making everyone around her miserable, is also a neuroscientist running a classified project. His mission—keep her alive. Cyrus soon finds out that not everything is as it seems; in fact, this entire assignment is twisted. Twisted like a double helix.
An op that should be straightforward becomes convoluted when Cyrus meets Gertrude’s grandchildren—Ashley and William—both of whom have special genetic abilities.
We have all fantasized about having the ability to read people’s minds or being able to control others’ actions, but what if you really could? Would it be an asset or would it become disabling? What if you couldn’t leave your own home without hearing voices and all the vile things they thought about? What then?
Xander Weaver takes us into a world of genetic engineering that is too real to dismiss. The atrocities and scientific breakthroughs found within this thriller will leave you gasping for air and thankful for your “short comings.”
How far will someone go in the pursuit of “science,” and how far will the government go to acquire such knowledge?
“Dangerous Minds” is a riveting thriller with so many twists that you won’t be sure who the good guys are until the last page, and then you still may wonder.
I have just added Xander Weaver to my ‘authors not to miss’ file, and I eagerly await the next Cyrus Cooper thriller.
Reviewed by J.M. LeDuc, author of “Sin,” published by Suspense Publishing, an imprint of Suspense Magazine
July 3, 2014
A great new hero.
Dangerous Minds starts with the take down of terrorists. Our hero, Cyrus Cooper, then takes an undercover position working for a brilliant scientist. I would even call her a mad scientist. She does research in Neuroscience studying ESP type behaviors and brain function. Attempts are made on her life and Cyrus saves the day. However, the scientist isn’t all she seems. Cyrus is young in age but old in mind.
This is a very enjoyable book, an entertaining read. Our hero has morals, wit, smarts, and doesn’t blindly follow orders. Yeah! He thinks for himself and comes to satisfying conclusions. This book has a cliff hanger ending which ensures that I will be reading future books in the series. This book would be a great read for those who like science minded thrillers, military/spy thrillers, and great characters. I highly recommend this books for those who like Rollins and other writers if his ilk.
Dangerous Minds starts with the take down of terrorists. Our hero, Cyrus Cooper, then takes an undercover position working for a brilliant scientist. I would even call her a mad scientist. She does research in Neuroscience studying ESP type behaviors and brain function. Attempts are made on her life and Cyrus saves the day. However, the scientist isn’t all she seems. Cyrus is young in age but old in mind.
This is a very enjoyable book, an entertaining read. Our hero has morals, wit, smarts, and doesn’t blindly follow orders. Yeah! He thinks for himself and comes to satisfying conclusions. This book has a cliff hanger ending which ensures that I will be reading future books in the series. This book would be a great read for those who like science minded thrillers, military/spy thrillers, and great characters. I highly recommend this books for those who like Rollins and other writers if his ilk.
June 7, 2014
I didn't have any expectations going in with his book, being a debut novel. I was blown away, it does not read like the first book. I've read books by seasoned-authors that were not as well written and gripping as this was. If I had the time I would have read it cover to cover, as it was, I had to put it down reluctantly on a couple of occasions and what I found was that I continued to think about it, wondering where the story was going, what certain things meant. I loved that about it. The ending just leaves you wanting more...not in a bad way, just enough to keep you on the look out for book 2. I am looking forward to the next book already, keep an eye out for Xander Weaver he is the next name for great thrillers.
July 31, 2014
From the first page of "Dangerous Minds", I was intrigued and felt in my book fiend mind that I would be trapped inside its pages - - - and I was, until the very end.
Mr. Weaver, a brand new novelist, creates a cocooned adrenaline rush . . . science, mystery, manipulation, action, adventure, an intriguing new type of hero that is being used for unethical means, a tad bit of love . . . Perfect.
How I loved reading this story, as I sincerely believe you will too.
Eagerly awaiting another Cyrus Cooper book to rest beside "Dangerous Minds".
Mr. Weaver, a brand new novelist, creates a cocooned adrenaline rush . . . science, mystery, manipulation, action, adventure, an intriguing new type of hero that is being used for unethical means, a tad bit of love . . . Perfect.
How I loved reading this story, as I sincerely believe you will too.
Eagerly awaiting another Cyrus Cooper book to rest beside "Dangerous Minds".
February 6, 2015
Cyrus Cooper is a young man with a confidence that he is yet to fully understand himself. There is something different about him, he has an innate aptitude to take control of a situation with minimal violence. Many twists and turns have your sympathies for the characters changing as you learn more as the story unfolds. This is a very polished first novel by Xander Weaver and I am eager for his next book as I am sure there is more to be revealed about Cyrus.
June 11, 2014
Début novelist Xander Weaver introduces an intriguing and exciting new character in Cyrus Cooper, a young agent working for a shadow organization. Weaver gives us a tantalizing glimpse into Cyrus's past and special talents to make us want to see his story continue. Fast-paced and suspenseful with action and romance, this new series will be fun to follow.
June 25, 2014
This one takes some concepts you've seen before... and weaves them into an interesting tale that will keep you in your seat well into the night. Kane Gilmour helped with this work, and it shows. I would not be surprised to see Xander writing with Jeremy Robinson down the road - he is that good.
November 6, 2014
Love it, but it would be perfect if Cooper is thirty old rather than twenty because I find him a little too young. Anyway, cannot wait to read the sequel.
March 3, 2019
Starts out somewhat exciting and interesting, but quickly proceeds to dull and boring. :(
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews