Skeptic

by Holden Scott

Dr. Mike Ballantine prides himself on his objectivity and scientific acumen, but even he can't explain the "thing" that killed his friend, the Governor of Massachusetts, and now a Chinese assassin is loose on the streets who uses sorcery to take out his victims. Reprint.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Suspense

389 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Sajil · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a pretty typical pulp thriller page turner. It reaches for a goal of linking science with spirituality that it doesn’t achieve though. An airborne mirror virus is discovered that will transmit a person’s last memories to a new recipient. Throughout the book this is posited as proof that ghosts are real. But hallucinations caused by a virus are in no way analogous to the common definition of a ghost. But there are a lot of international intrigue type of apocalyptic action along with an unwarranted romance. (B)

[Muriel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. I didn't want to put it down.

[Phil · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun read with a lot of interesting medical ideas. Characters were fun, if a bit stereotyped. 3.5 stars.

[Marianne]

Crude, swearing.

[Marti · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another book which I read on the stationary bike, pausing to read a library book about halfway through. The main characters are Dr. Mike Ballantine and CIA agent Amber Chen. There is a Chinese villain named Sheshen who is quite diabolical. Mike loses two good friends and his father before he and Amber find out why Sheshen wants the results of scientific tests done by Mike's student. We had an experience with a ghost on a cruise ship, so we now believe in ghosts, who are an integral part of this story.

Merged review:

this book was not on the list I checked--good to know some other persons have read this and enjoyed the combination of "what if" and thriller. Interesting characters. Fast moving, compelling

[Brett Tompkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book a lot in the beginning. When the concept was revealed I thought it was facinating and believable. As the story wore on, I began to lose interest. The idea seemed realistic until it changed from a passive memory type "ghost" to an active ghost that could direct Mike, move objects, and actively change the outcome of events. It started with promise, but became less believeable as the story unfolded. I also wasn't a big fan of the whole Chinese connection and the plot to take over the minds of the Chinese. I thought it was just a little silly. Overall, very original, great concept; I just wish it had gone in another direction.

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

The kind of mystery I like. Part medical, part paranormal, and totally readable. Concept of a molecular biological for ghosts was great.

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

The concept was intriging, but some of the content did not need to be in the book.

[Tom Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

a cross between a ghost story and a medical thriller

interesting story ,great evil villain

over all a fun read

highly recommended it

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this thriller. Tightly plotted, inventive around the fringes of science, with very intriguing background and characters. Looking forward to reading more Holden Scott.

[Elaine Nicholas-VanPelt]

I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13327877