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How to Surf a Hurricane
"A highly addictive tale that can be completed on a coast-to-coast flight." - BestThrillers.com
One man's fight for the future ignites a hurricane of change.
Moro Petroff's revolutionary battery project, vital for a sustainable future, is abruptly shut down by his uncle. Refusing to give up, Moro risks everything on a daring heist during a massive storm. From corporate sabotage to hurricane surfing and unexpected alliances, his desperate gamble could either save the world or destroy everything he knows.
Determined to get his prototypes back, he enlists the help of a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer. But he's no criminal mastermind, and they soon find themselves caught between a growing hurricane and a surprise algae field.
Will Moro succeed? Will they beat the hurricane surfing world record? And how exactly does one farm salt?
One man's fight for the future ignites a hurricane of change.
Moro Petroff's revolutionary battery project, vital for a sustainable future, is abruptly shut down by his uncle. Refusing to give up, Moro risks everything on a daring heist during a massive storm. From corporate sabotage to hurricane surfing and unexpected alliances, his desperate gamble could either save the world or destroy everything he knows.
Determined to get his prototypes back, he enlists the help of a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer. But he's no criminal mastermind, and they soon find themselves caught between a growing hurricane and a surprise algae field.
Will Moro succeed? Will they beat the hurricane surfing world record? And how exactly does one farm salt?
- GenresThriller
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
October 5, 2025
The plot of this story is fun: in the near future, a young engineer from a family running a vast energy company, has to steal his own revolutionary battery prototypes after his project is canned. So he plans a heist, at sea, during a hurricane, as you do. Unfortunately heists don't go according to plan at the best of times, and he's no criminal mastermind.
Most of the highly-skilled people recruited for the heist get some POV time, so we see into their motivations and backstory. Although I appreciated this, I was also confused by some of the time-jumps that happened. I would have appreciated the year noted at the start of each chapter, or other consistent quick context-setting. The story also needed stronger dialogue; the conversations are very stilted in places and some of the earlier scenes felt rushed to get to the good bits. Which I understand -- the story is at its best at sea in high winds -- but in a thriller, I'd want every scene to be vivid and important, even if the drama of an office or a family dinner is more subtle.
All in all though I had a good time reading this debut, and if what bothered me isn't something you tend to mind about as a reader, definitely take a look at this short pacy eco-thriller.
This review is based upon a complimentary reading copy provided by the publisher.
Most of the highly-skilled people recruited for the heist get some POV time, so we see into their motivations and backstory. Although I appreciated this, I was also confused by some of the time-jumps that happened. I would have appreciated the year noted at the start of each chapter, or other consistent quick context-setting. The story also needed stronger dialogue; the conversations are very stilted in places and some of the earlier scenes felt rushed to get to the good bits. Which I understand -- the story is at its best at sea in high winds -- but in a thriller, I'd want every scene to be vivid and important, even if the drama of an office or a family dinner is more subtle.
All in all though I had a good time reading this debut, and if what bothered me isn't something you tend to mind about as a reader, definitely take a look at this short pacy eco-thriller.
This review is based upon a complimentary reading copy provided by the publisher.
August 8, 2025
Okay but seriously, this book is bonkers in the best way. How to Surf a Hurricane is like if a science nerd, a surfer, and an eco-activist all walked into a bar and decided to steal a battery prototype during a hurricane. Sounds insane? IT IS. And I loved every second of it.
Our main guy, Moro, is basically the engineer version of “I’ll fix it myself.” His clean-energy battery gets shut down by his own uncle (ugh, family drama), so naturally, he quits the family biz and plans a high-seas heist in the middle of a storm. Honestly, that’s the kind of chaotic energy I support.
What makes this even better? The random yet amazing team he builds, there’s a hurricane surfer, an oil worker from Alaska, and a French salt farmer (??). I couldn’t tell if I was reading an eco-thriller or the most chaotic group project ever, and I was obsessed.
The plot is fast, the stakes are high, and the humor is on point. Plus, it tackles climate issues in a way that feels real, not preachy. It’s fun, intense, slightly ridiculous, and somehow inspiring. Also, 10/10 would watch this as a movie.
Our main guy, Moro, is basically the engineer version of “I’ll fix it myself.” His clean-energy battery gets shut down by his own uncle (ugh, family drama), so naturally, he quits the family biz and plans a high-seas heist in the middle of a storm. Honestly, that’s the kind of chaotic energy I support.
What makes this even better? The random yet amazing team he builds, there’s a hurricane surfer, an oil worker from Alaska, and a French salt farmer (??). I couldn’t tell if I was reading an eco-thriller or the most chaotic group project ever, and I was obsessed.
The plot is fast, the stakes are high, and the humor is on point. Plus, it tackles climate issues in a way that feels real, not preachy. It’s fun, intense, slightly ridiculous, and somehow inspiring. Also, 10/10 would watch this as a movie.
July 28, 2025
How far are you willing to go to protect the world?
Moro is from a wealthy family, but has big ideas on how to produce cleaner energy and move away from nuclear and gas. However, that doesn't sit well with his family since they are all about fueling the world with their power company. Batteries that last longer are not a money maker in their eyes. When they shut down his project, he brings together a band of like-minded people to help him steal the batteries. Nothing ever goes as planned, and this group encounters roadblocks, but what they achieve seems impossible, especially since the heist takes place in the middle of a hurricane.
I enjoyed this book and how grounded most of the characters were. In fact, there were several I wouldn't have minded knowing in real life. They all have drive, ambition, and are environmentally aware. There are many intricate parts of this book, and areas that I am unfamiliar with, such as farming salt, but I learned a few things about those different paths. While some of this is theoretical, such as surfing a hurricane in a specially designed pod, it isn't something that couldn't eventually come to pass.
This book was a fast read for me, and it was easy to follow the various characters, their motivations, and the outcome, whether it was what was expected or not. There are some tense moments mixed in with humor, a smooth balance to make this an easy to read novel.
We give this book 5 paws up.
Moro is from a wealthy family, but has big ideas on how to produce cleaner energy and move away from nuclear and gas. However, that doesn't sit well with his family since they are all about fueling the world with their power company. Batteries that last longer are not a money maker in their eyes. When they shut down his project, he brings together a band of like-minded people to help him steal the batteries. Nothing ever goes as planned, and this group encounters roadblocks, but what they achieve seems impossible, especially since the heist takes place in the middle of a hurricane.
I enjoyed this book and how grounded most of the characters were. In fact, there were several I wouldn't have minded knowing in real life. They all have drive, ambition, and are environmentally aware. There are many intricate parts of this book, and areas that I am unfamiliar with, such as farming salt, but I learned a few things about those different paths. While some of this is theoretical, such as surfing a hurricane in a specially designed pod, it isn't something that couldn't eventually come to pass.
This book was a fast read for me, and it was easy to follow the various characters, their motivations, and the outcome, whether it was what was expected or not. There are some tense moments mixed in with humor, a smooth balance to make this an easy to read novel.
We give this book 5 paws up.
August 22, 2025
If you're looking for a fast read that doesn't get bogged down by the story telling and doesn't dive too deeply into the lives of the characters but is still very entertaining to read, this is your book! At only 228 pages long with a very easy to read style, this is a good cross country flight or beach read. Definitely doable as a one sitting adventure.
While I was satisfied with most of what this book has to offer, sometimes the pace got in the way of the story being told. There were a few sections/chapters and plot points that I would have enjoyed even more if the author would have expounded on some of the ideas, giving them time to breathe and not feeling like your rushing through the events or the story telling, filling in the gaps, as it were. That said, I enjoyed the characters and eco-friendly themes and the idea of surfing a hurricane is enticing.
Thank you to the author, Atmosphere Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
While I was satisfied with most of what this book has to offer, sometimes the pace got in the way of the story being told. There were a few sections/chapters and plot points that I would have enjoyed even more if the author would have expounded on some of the ideas, giving them time to breathe and not feeling like your rushing through the events or the story telling, filling in the gaps, as it were. That said, I enjoyed the characters and eco-friendly themes and the idea of surfing a hurricane is enticing.
Thank you to the author, Atmosphere Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
August 23, 2025
Todd Medema's debut novel "How to Surf a Hurricane" crashes onto the literary scene like the massive storm at its center, delivering a pulse-pounding heist thriller wrapped in urgent climate fiction themes. This isn't your typical eco-warrior narrative—it's a sophisticated caper that weaves together corporate espionage, extreme sports, and environmental activism into a story that feels both timely and timeless. Medema, making his mark as a novelist, demonstrates remarkable skill in balancing high-octane action with deeper questions about corporate responsibility, environmental stewardship, and the lengths one person will go to protect the future.
The novel follows Moro Petroff, a young engineer whose revolutionary lithium-sulfur battery project becomes the victim of corporate politics when his uncle Dmitri, CEO of Petroff Power, shuts down the potentially world-changing technology. Rather than accepting defeat, Moro orchestrates an audacious heist to steal back his own invention, assembling an unlikely crew that includes Victoria, a hurricane-surfing world record chaser; Miki, a tough Alaskan construction worker with claustrophobia; and Anne, a French salt farmer with smuggling experience.
Character Development That Anchors the Storm
What elevates "How to Surf a Hurricane" above typical thriller fare is Medema's commitment to character development. Moro begins as a privileged, somewhat naive engineer driven by noble intentions but lacking real-world experience in the consequences of his actions. His evolution throughout the novel—from idealistic inventor to reluctant criminal to someone who understands the true cost of change—forms the emotional backbone of the story.
Victoria emerges as perhaps the most compelling character, a single mother pushing the boundaries of extreme sports while wrestling with her responsibility to her daughter Azure. Her relationship with hurricane surfing serves as both literal and metaphorical representation of humanity's relationship with nature—the fine line between working with natural forces and being destroyed by them. The scenes depicting her record-breaking surfing attempts are breathtakingly rendered, with Medema capturing both the technical aspects of the sport and its almost spiritual connection to the ocean's power.
The supporting cast brings depth and authenticity to the narrative. Miki's struggle with claustrophobia while trapped in the shipping container creates genuine tension and vulnerability. Anne's backstory as a salt farmer fighting for her marshland provides historical context for environmental struggles, while her smuggling expertise adds practical credibility to the heist elements. Even secondary characters like Patty, the engineer-turned-entrepreneur, feel fully realized rather than merely functional.
A Multi-Layered Plot Structure
Medema constructs his narrative with the precision of an engineer, which feels appropriate given his protagonist's background. The novel operates on multiple timeline threads that converge during the central heist sequence, but the structure never feels gimmicky or overly complex. The pacing builds steadily from corporate boardroom tensions to the life-or-death struggles aboard ships in hurricane-force winds.
The heist itself unfolds with satisfying complexity, involving corporate sabotage, weather manipulation through geoengineering, and the dangerous intersection of cutting-edge technology with extreme weather. Medema demonstrates impressive research across diverse fields—from battery technology and corporate law to hurricane meteorology and extreme sports. The technical details enhance rather than bog down the narrative, giving readers confidence in the story's plausibility.
Environmental Themes Woven Seamlessly
Rather than lecturing readers about climate change, Medema integrates environmental concerns organically into his thriller framework. The lithium-sulfur batteries represent hope for clean energy storage, while the corporate resistance to their development reflects real-world tensions between profit motives and environmental necessity. The hurricane that serves as both obstacle and cover for the heist becomes a character in its own right, representing the increasingly violent weather patterns of a changing climate.
The novel's treatment of geoengineering—Moro's manipulation of weather patterns to create the hurricane—raises fascinating ethical questions about humanity's relationship with natural systems. Is it acceptable to fight fire with fire, to use technology to combat the effects of other technologies? These questions permeate the narrative without overwhelming the adventure elements.
Action Sequences That Pulse With Energy
The action sequences in "How to Surf a Hurricane" achieve that rare balance between technical accuracy and emotional resonance. The hurricane surfing scenes, in particular, capture both the physics of extreme water sports and the psychological state of athletes pushing beyond normal human limits. Victoria's final record-breaking run, where she stops fighting the storm and learns to work with it, serves as both thrilling climax and powerful metaphor.
The ship-to-ship transfer during the hurricane creates genuine tension through careful attention to maritime details and the very real dangers of operating in extreme weather. Moro's inexperience with criminal activities adds both humor and authenticity to sequences that could have felt overly slick in the hands of a less thoughtful author.
Writing Style and Narrative Voice
Medema's prose style remains accessible while tackling complex technical and emotional territory. His background appears to include significant research into the various specialized fields his characters inhabit, from renewable energy technology to extreme sports culture. The dialogue feels natural and character-specific, with each person maintaining a distinct voice throughout the narrative.
The author handles multiple perspectives skillfully, shifting between characters without losing narrative momentum or confusing readers about timeline or motivation. The technical exposition integrates smoothly into character interactions and plot development, avoiding the common pitfall of turning into textbook passages.
Contemporary Relevance and Broader Impact
Published in 2025, "How to Surf a Hurricane" arrives at a moment when climate fiction has gained significant literary recognition and popular appeal. The novel's exploration of corporate resistance to environmental solutions feels particularly resonant in an era of ongoing debates about renewable energy adoption and corporate responsibility. The character of Dmitri, representing established energy interests, avoids caricature while embodying real institutional resistance to change.
The book's treatment of activism—both its necessity and its costs—offers a nuanced perspective on environmental action. Moro's journey through legal consequences and personal sacrifice reflects the real-world challenges faced by those who challenge established systems, even for noble purposes.
Final Assessment
"How to Surf a Hurricane" succeeds both as an entertaining thriller and as a thoughtful exploration of environmental activism in the modern world. Medema has crafted a debut that respects readers' intelligence while delivering genuine excitement and emotional engagement. The novel's combination of technical authenticity, character depth, and timely themes creates a reading experience that lingers beyond the final page.
For readers seeking adventure fiction that grapples with contemporary issues without sacrificing entertainment value, "How to Surf a Hurricane" delivers on all fronts. It's a promising debut from an author who demonstrates both storytelling skill and deep understanding of the complex challenges facing our changing world. As climate fiction continues to gain recognition as a vital literary genre, Medema's contribution stands out for its successful integration of thriller elements with environmental consciousness.
This is adventure fiction with purpose, proving that entertainment and meaning need not be mutually exclusive. "How to Surf a Hurricane" rides its perfect storm to a satisfying conclusion that will leave readers both thrilled and thoughtful about the world we're all navigating together.
The novel follows Moro Petroff, a young engineer whose revolutionary lithium-sulfur battery project becomes the victim of corporate politics when his uncle Dmitri, CEO of Petroff Power, shuts down the potentially world-changing technology. Rather than accepting defeat, Moro orchestrates an audacious heist to steal back his own invention, assembling an unlikely crew that includes Victoria, a hurricane-surfing world record chaser; Miki, a tough Alaskan construction worker with claustrophobia; and Anne, a French salt farmer with smuggling experience.
Character Development That Anchors the Storm
What elevates "How to Surf a Hurricane" above typical thriller fare is Medema's commitment to character development. Moro begins as a privileged, somewhat naive engineer driven by noble intentions but lacking real-world experience in the consequences of his actions. His evolution throughout the novel—from idealistic inventor to reluctant criminal to someone who understands the true cost of change—forms the emotional backbone of the story.
Victoria emerges as perhaps the most compelling character, a single mother pushing the boundaries of extreme sports while wrestling with her responsibility to her daughter Azure. Her relationship with hurricane surfing serves as both literal and metaphorical representation of humanity's relationship with nature—the fine line between working with natural forces and being destroyed by them. The scenes depicting her record-breaking surfing attempts are breathtakingly rendered, with Medema capturing both the technical aspects of the sport and its almost spiritual connection to the ocean's power.
The supporting cast brings depth and authenticity to the narrative. Miki's struggle with claustrophobia while trapped in the shipping container creates genuine tension and vulnerability. Anne's backstory as a salt farmer fighting for her marshland provides historical context for environmental struggles, while her smuggling expertise adds practical credibility to the heist elements. Even secondary characters like Patty, the engineer-turned-entrepreneur, feel fully realized rather than merely functional.
A Multi-Layered Plot Structure
Medema constructs his narrative with the precision of an engineer, which feels appropriate given his protagonist's background. The novel operates on multiple timeline threads that converge during the central heist sequence, but the structure never feels gimmicky or overly complex. The pacing builds steadily from corporate boardroom tensions to the life-or-death struggles aboard ships in hurricane-force winds.
The heist itself unfolds with satisfying complexity, involving corporate sabotage, weather manipulation through geoengineering, and the dangerous intersection of cutting-edge technology with extreme weather. Medema demonstrates impressive research across diverse fields—from battery technology and corporate law to hurricane meteorology and extreme sports. The technical details enhance rather than bog down the narrative, giving readers confidence in the story's plausibility.
Environmental Themes Woven Seamlessly
Rather than lecturing readers about climate change, Medema integrates environmental concerns organically into his thriller framework. The lithium-sulfur batteries represent hope for clean energy storage, while the corporate resistance to their development reflects real-world tensions between profit motives and environmental necessity. The hurricane that serves as both obstacle and cover for the heist becomes a character in its own right, representing the increasingly violent weather patterns of a changing climate.
The novel's treatment of geoengineering—Moro's manipulation of weather patterns to create the hurricane—raises fascinating ethical questions about humanity's relationship with natural systems. Is it acceptable to fight fire with fire, to use technology to combat the effects of other technologies? These questions permeate the narrative without overwhelming the adventure elements.
Action Sequences That Pulse With Energy
The action sequences in "How to Surf a Hurricane" achieve that rare balance between technical accuracy and emotional resonance. The hurricane surfing scenes, in particular, capture both the physics of extreme water sports and the psychological state of athletes pushing beyond normal human limits. Victoria's final record-breaking run, where she stops fighting the storm and learns to work with it, serves as both thrilling climax and powerful metaphor.
The ship-to-ship transfer during the hurricane creates genuine tension through careful attention to maritime details and the very real dangers of operating in extreme weather. Moro's inexperience with criminal activities adds both humor and authenticity to sequences that could have felt overly slick in the hands of a less thoughtful author.
Writing Style and Narrative Voice
Medema's prose style remains accessible while tackling complex technical and emotional territory. His background appears to include significant research into the various specialized fields his characters inhabit, from renewable energy technology to extreme sports culture. The dialogue feels natural and character-specific, with each person maintaining a distinct voice throughout the narrative.
The author handles multiple perspectives skillfully, shifting between characters without losing narrative momentum or confusing readers about timeline or motivation. The technical exposition integrates smoothly into character interactions and plot development, avoiding the common pitfall of turning into textbook passages.
Contemporary Relevance and Broader Impact
Published in 2025, "How to Surf a Hurricane" arrives at a moment when climate fiction has gained significant literary recognition and popular appeal. The novel's exploration of corporate resistance to environmental solutions feels particularly resonant in an era of ongoing debates about renewable energy adoption and corporate responsibility. The character of Dmitri, representing established energy interests, avoids caricature while embodying real institutional resistance to change.
The book's treatment of activism—both its necessity and its costs—offers a nuanced perspective on environmental action. Moro's journey through legal consequences and personal sacrifice reflects the real-world challenges faced by those who challenge established systems, even for noble purposes.
Final Assessment
"How to Surf a Hurricane" succeeds both as an entertaining thriller and as a thoughtful exploration of environmental activism in the modern world. Medema has crafted a debut that respects readers' intelligence while delivering genuine excitement and emotional engagement. The novel's combination of technical authenticity, character depth, and timely themes creates a reading experience that lingers beyond the final page.
For readers seeking adventure fiction that grapples with contemporary issues without sacrificing entertainment value, "How to Surf a Hurricane" delivers on all fronts. It's a promising debut from an author who demonstrates both storytelling skill and deep understanding of the complex challenges facing our changing world. As climate fiction continues to gain recognition as a vital literary genre, Medema's contribution stands out for its successful integration of thriller elements with environmental consciousness.
This is adventure fiction with purpose, proving that entertainment and meaning need not be mutually exclusive. "How to Surf a Hurricane" rides its perfect storm to a satisfying conclusion that will leave readers both thrilled and thoughtful about the world we're all navigating together.
August 23, 2025
Book Review: How to Surf a Hurricane by Todd Medema
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Todd Medema’s How to Surf a Hurricane is a whirlwind of adventure, science, and daring ambition. It is a story that combines the urgency of climate change with the thrill of a high-stakes heist, delivering a reading experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
👉At the center of the novel is Moro Petroff, an engineer whose groundbreaking clean-energy battery is abruptly shut down by his uncle. Refusing to abandon his vision for a sustainable future, Moro embarks on a daring mission to retrieve his stolen prototypes during the chaos of a massive storm. His decision sets the stage for a gripping narrative where ambition, courage, and desperation collide.
👉What makes the novel particularly compelling is the eclectic team Moro brings together. Alongside him are a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer. Their diverse backgrounds and clashing perspectives create moments of humor, tension, and camaraderie, transforming the novel into both an eco-thriller and an unlikely team adventure.
👉The pacing is relentless, keeping readers fully immersed from beginning to end. Medema balances the tension of corporate sabotage and natural disaster with clever humor, ensuring the story never feels heavy despite the high stakes. The climate themes are woven seamlessly into the plot, raising awareness without slipping into preachiness.
👉How to Surf a Hurricane succeeds because it is bold, original, and unapologetically unique. It embraces chaos while delivering a narrative that inspires readers to think about innovation, resilience, and the lengths one might go to protect a better future.
Happy reading 😁😁
#bookreview
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Todd Medema’s How to Surf a Hurricane is a whirlwind of adventure, science, and daring ambition. It is a story that combines the urgency of climate change with the thrill of a high-stakes heist, delivering a reading experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
👉At the center of the novel is Moro Petroff, an engineer whose groundbreaking clean-energy battery is abruptly shut down by his uncle. Refusing to abandon his vision for a sustainable future, Moro embarks on a daring mission to retrieve his stolen prototypes during the chaos of a massive storm. His decision sets the stage for a gripping narrative where ambition, courage, and desperation collide.
👉What makes the novel particularly compelling is the eclectic team Moro brings together. Alongside him are a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer. Their diverse backgrounds and clashing perspectives create moments of humor, tension, and camaraderie, transforming the novel into both an eco-thriller and an unlikely team adventure.
👉The pacing is relentless, keeping readers fully immersed from beginning to end. Medema balances the tension of corporate sabotage and natural disaster with clever humor, ensuring the story never feels heavy despite the high stakes. The climate themes are woven seamlessly into the plot, raising awareness without slipping into preachiness.
👉How to Surf a Hurricane succeeds because it is bold, original, and unapologetically unique. It embraces chaos while delivering a narrative that inspires readers to think about innovation, resilience, and the lengths one might go to protect a better future.
Happy reading 😁😁
#bookreview
August 25, 2025
This book sounds like an electrifying thrill ride, full of action, suspense, and unexpected twists. Moro Petroff's fight for a sustainable future is both admirable and relatable, and his determination to reclaim his revolutionary battery project despite the odds is inspiring.
The plot is engaging, with Moro risking everything on a daring heist during a massive storm. The addition of a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer adds a unique dynamic to the story, and their unexpected alliances create opportunities for exciting conflicts and character development.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the way it balances high-stakes action with themes of sustainability and innovation. Moro's project has the potential to change the world, and his fight to bring it to life is both compelling and thought-provoking.
Overall, this book seems like a gripping page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its blend of action, suspense, and inspiration, it's sure to appeal to fans of thrillers and adventure stories. Will Moro succeed in his mission? Will they beat the hurricane surfing world record? And what's the secret to farming salt? You'll have to read to find out.
The plot is engaging, with Moro risking everything on a daring heist during a massive storm. The addition of a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer adds a unique dynamic to the story, and their unexpected alliances create opportunities for exciting conflicts and character development.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the way it balances high-stakes action with themes of sustainability and innovation. Moro's project has the potential to change the world, and his fight to bring it to life is both compelling and thought-provoking.
Overall, this book seems like a gripping page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its blend of action, suspense, and inspiration, it's sure to appeal to fans of thrillers and adventure stories. Will Moro succeed in his mission? Will they beat the hurricane surfing world record? And what's the secret to farming salt? You'll have to read to find out.
September 21, 2025
What happens when your uncle feels that you are threatening the family business with your ideas, and shuts you down? Moro finds a menagerie group who is willing to risk everything to pull off an unfathomable heist during one of mother natures most dangerous storms. An Alaskan oiler, a hurricane surfer and a French salt farmer rounds out Moro's team. Each one has their own characteristic they bring to the story and heist. Miki is a tough construction worker but has claustrophobia. Victoria chases world records with her hurricane surfing and Anne brings forth her smuggling experience. The goal is the steal Moro's revolutionary battery invention back. Set a bit in the future, this novel was a fast paced read often with unorthodox plans, yet realistic in this setting. This novel flowed well and I enjoyed how the characters were all brought in and that we learned a little about each of them and how they got to be here with Moro's plan. Although set in the future with technical jargon, I didn't feel lost or that it was above my understanding. Thank you to the author for this different type of a thriller ride and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the tour invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
September 21, 2025
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
🌊 love to surf
🎥 like the movie Ocean’s Eleven
📖 enjoy short fast paced reads
🔋 believe batteries are the future
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
One man's fight for the future ignites a hurricane of change.
Bad news: Moro's project is cancelled.
Determined to get his prototypes back and aided by a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer, Moro does what any reasonable engineer would do—he quits the family business and plans a heist on the high seas.
But he's no criminal mastermind, and they soon find themselves caught between a growing hurricane and a surprise algae field.
It's The Martian meets Ocean's Eleven, in a world adapting to climate change.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
What an entertaining read! I loved how similar it felt to Ocean’s Eleven, except instead of stealing money and other valuables, Moro just wants his scientific research back. It was set a little bit in the future, and from what I hear, batteries really are the future, so it felt really realistic as well. I loved the action scenes involving surfing in hurricanes, as it’s not something I’ve really seen or heard about before. I also enjoyed the fast pace, as it’s something that can be read in a single sitting or two! Overall, this one is a win!
🌊 love to surf
🎥 like the movie Ocean’s Eleven
📖 enjoy short fast paced reads
🔋 believe batteries are the future
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
One man's fight for the future ignites a hurricane of change.
Bad news: Moro's project is cancelled.
Determined to get his prototypes back and aided by a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer, Moro does what any reasonable engineer would do—he quits the family business and plans a heist on the high seas.
But he's no criminal mastermind, and they soon find themselves caught between a growing hurricane and a surprise algae field.
It's The Martian meets Ocean's Eleven, in a world adapting to climate change.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
What an entertaining read! I loved how similar it felt to Ocean’s Eleven, except instead of stealing money and other valuables, Moro just wants his scientific research back. It was set a little bit in the future, and from what I hear, batteries really are the future, so it felt really realistic as well. I loved the action scenes involving surfing in hurricanes, as it’s not something I’ve really seen or heard about before. I also enjoyed the fast pace, as it’s something that can be read in a single sitting or two! Overall, this one is a win!
August 27, 2025
🌪️ How to Surf a Hurricane by Todd Medema is one of those books that grabs you right from the first chapter and doesn’t let go! ⚡️
Imagine a mix of corporate sabotage, eco-thriller vibes, and… surfing through a hurricane. Yep, it’s as wild as it sounds! 🏄♂️
Moro Petroff is a character you can’t help but root for, his passion for creating a sustainable future feels so relevant today 🌍.
When his uncle shuts down his revolutionary battery project, instead of giving up, he dives headfirst (literally) into a daring heist during a storm.
And honestly? That storm is almost a character itself, chaotic, unpredictable, and thrilling to read about. 🌊
I loved how Todd Medema weaves in unlikely allies, a hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and even a French salt farmer (who knew farming salt could be so intriguing?). 🧂
Their dynamic gives the book humor and heart, balancing the nail-biting action with lighter moments.
This is not just an action-packed adventure, it’s also about resilience, hope, and the crazy risks we take to fight for what matters.
If you love high-stakes thrillers with a touch of uniqueness, this one’s a ride worth taking. 🚀
Imagine a mix of corporate sabotage, eco-thriller vibes, and… surfing through a hurricane. Yep, it’s as wild as it sounds! 🏄♂️
Moro Petroff is a character you can’t help but root for, his passion for creating a sustainable future feels so relevant today 🌍.
When his uncle shuts down his revolutionary battery project, instead of giving up, he dives headfirst (literally) into a daring heist during a storm.
And honestly? That storm is almost a character itself, chaotic, unpredictable, and thrilling to read about. 🌊
I loved how Todd Medema weaves in unlikely allies, a hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and even a French salt farmer (who knew farming salt could be so intriguing?). 🧂
Their dynamic gives the book humor and heart, balancing the nail-biting action with lighter moments.
This is not just an action-packed adventure, it’s also about resilience, hope, and the crazy risks we take to fight for what matters.
If you love high-stakes thrillers with a touch of uniqueness, this one’s a ride worth taking. 🚀
September 12, 2025
A fast-paced adventure that takes us from the peaks of snow-capped mountains in Alaska to the wicked waves of Florida and on to the rich salt marsh of France.
Looking at the cover, I thought this might lean more sci-fi, but it turned out to be more of a tech/eco thriller. Moro Petroff is an engineer who is developing a new lithium-sulfur battery that could be a game-changer, but his uncle shuts down his project.
Moro looks to three experts in three fields to pull off a heist to get his work back - an Alaska oil worker, a hurricane surfer, and a French salt farmer. This unlikely group is in for some tough and rough times ahead, but it’s all in the name of clean energy.
This was highly entertaining, and it was a very clever approach to addressing climate issues, no soapboxes, just adventure and work to be done. I loved this eclectic bunch that Moro brought together and how they worked together; there’s a bit of a found family feel between the group.
A fast, easy read, but one you’ll not want to put down.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @toddmedema for the #gifted book.
August 25, 2025
"How to Surf a Hurricane" by Todd Medema is an action-packed heist thriller. The story follows Moro, an engineer convinced that his lithium-sulfur battery invention has the power to change the world. His hopes are crushed when his uncle cuts off funding, declaring the project dead.
Determined not to give up, Moro devises a daring plan: to steal a shipment of batteries from a cargo ship right in the middle of a hurricane. He is joined by Victoria, a skilled sailor, and her daughter. Miki, a tough and dependable worker and a salt farmer also joined him. Some of them even demand payment in batteries instead of money. But can such a risky heist succeed against the raging storm?
I found myself wholeheartedly cheering for Moro throughout. The book’s language is simple and accessible, with a fast-paced plot and well-crafted characters. The narration flows smoothly, and the cover art is appealing. I thoroughly enjoyed the read. Todd Medema has done a fantastic job with this novel. If you’re considering it, dive in without hesitation.
Determined not to give up, Moro devises a daring plan: to steal a shipment of batteries from a cargo ship right in the middle of a hurricane. He is joined by Victoria, a skilled sailor, and her daughter. Miki, a tough and dependable worker and a salt farmer also joined him. Some of them even demand payment in batteries instead of money. But can such a risky heist succeed against the raging storm?
I found myself wholeheartedly cheering for Moro throughout. The book’s language is simple and accessible, with a fast-paced plot and well-crafted characters. The narration flows smoothly, and the cover art is appealing. I thoroughly enjoyed the read. Todd Medema has done a fantastic job with this novel. If you’re considering it, dive in without hesitation.
September 20, 2025
I’ve been through my share of hurricanes living in Florida for 20+ years, so I found this book set in the near future quite interesting.
The book really doesn’t have that much to do with a traditional hurricane. It is told in multiple points of view and tells about a group of people that come together to steal batteries which are environmentally friendly.
There are parts of this book that have the extreme sport of hurricane surfing.
I thought the action in the read was great. The book could lead to some thoughtful discussion because the main character decides to do something bad in order to do some good.
Since the book is set about 10-15 years in the future, it makes for a great discussion about what our technology and resources may look like.
The book really doesn’t have that much to do with a traditional hurricane. It is told in multiple points of view and tells about a group of people that come together to steal batteries which are environmentally friendly.
There are parts of this book that have the extreme sport of hurricane surfing.
I thought the action in the read was great. The book could lead to some thoughtful discussion because the main character decides to do something bad in order to do some good.
Since the book is set about 10-15 years in the future, it makes for a great discussion about what our technology and resources may look like.
April 9, 2026
I listened to the audiobook of How to Surf a Hurricane, and it was an entertaining mix of genres with a focus on Climate Fiction.
It follows Moro, an engineer who builds a powerful new battery that could help the future. When his company shuts the project down, he decides to take action and steal it back. Along the way, he teams up with a small, unusual group, including a hurricane surfer, which makes the story even more interesting.
The audiobook format makes the experience more engaging, especially during the action and storm scenes. The pacing is smooth, and it’s easy to keep up with, even when the story gets technical in parts.
Overall, it’s a creative story with an exciting plot and a message at the heart.
It follows Moro, an engineer who builds a powerful new battery that could help the future. When his company shuts the project down, he decides to take action and steal it back. Along the way, he teams up with a small, unusual group, including a hurricane surfer, which makes the story even more interesting.
The audiobook format makes the experience more engaging, especially during the action and storm scenes. The pacing is smooth, and it’s easy to keep up with, even when the story gets technical in parts.
Overall, it’s a creative story with an exciting plot and a message at the heart.
September 1, 2025
This book is wildly entertaining and so much fun to read. The author tells the story without extraneous details so the action moves quickly, yet I still had perfect imagery of the scenes in my head. I loved the sustainability touches and the engineering aspects are fascinating. The characters are colored in just enough that I had a good sense of who they are without being told directly. I went in blind with this one and I'm so glad I did because it was a delightful surprise all the way around and reminded me a bit of Ocean's Eleven with a techno, surfer, eco-friendly, slightly nerdy vibe.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2026
The stage is set and heightened with this audiobook production.
A mix of sci-fi and action with a cool heist story at the center. It follows Moro, a young engineer who invents a powerful new battery that could really help the world, but his company shuts it down which throws things for a loop. He puts together a small, unusual team and plans a risky mission during a massive storm.
The story moves quickly and keeps things interesting with action and big ideas about technology, and climate change while keeping the stakes high.
An exciting and different kind of story with a good message at its heart.
A mix of sci-fi and action with a cool heist story at the center. It follows Moro, a young engineer who invents a powerful new battery that could really help the world, but his company shuts it down which throws things for a loop. He puts together a small, unusual team and plans a risky mission during a massive storm.
The story moves quickly and keeps things interesting with action and big ideas about technology, and climate change while keeping the stakes high.
An exciting and different kind of story with a good message at its heart.
April 1, 2026
The audiobook version of How to Surf a Hurricane feels like a fast-moving adventure you can easily get lost in. The narrator brings energy to the story, which helps keep the momentum going through all the action and big ideas.
We Moro, an engineer who refuses to give up on a clean-energy project and ends up planning a risky heist during a hurricane. What makes it stand out is how it mixes science, climate issues, and teamwork with a wild, almost unbelievable concept like hurricane surfing.
The characters are a bit unconventional, but that actually works in the book’s favor.
If you enjoy stories that combine adventure with real-world issues, this one is worth trying.
We Moro, an engineer who refuses to give up on a clean-energy project and ends up planning a risky heist during a hurricane. What makes it stand out is how it mixes science, climate issues, and teamwork with a wild, almost unbelievable concept like hurricane surfing.
The characters are a bit unconventional, but that actually works in the book’s favor.
If you enjoy stories that combine adventure with real-world issues, this one is worth trying.
August 23, 2025
This is a clever take on the eco-thriller genre. Instead of dry lectures about sustainability, the story dives headfirst into the action with wild risks, unconventional allies, and a literal hurricane as the backdrop. The scientific details about batteries, algae, and renewable energy felt well-researched, and the balance between science and storytelling was impressive. A couple of transitions between action scenes felt a little rushed, but overall this was a compelling, fun, and thought-provoking read.
August 23, 2025
What an unbelievable debut!! I would describe this as a high stakes thriller!
Moro Petroff is an engineer whose working on a lithium-sulfur battery project that could change the world. When his uncle Dimitri abruptly shuts down his life’s work. Moro decides the only way he can get his life’s work back is to plan a heist! The first step is to get the help from a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer! Facing a few roadblocks such as a hurricane and algae won’t stop this crew, your soon taken on a while eco thriller!!!
Moro Petroff is an engineer whose working on a lithium-sulfur battery project that could change the world. When his uncle Dimitri abruptly shuts down his life’s work. Moro decides the only way he can get his life’s work back is to plan a heist! The first step is to get the help from a professional hurricane surfer, an Alaskan oil worker, and a French salt farmer! Facing a few roadblocks such as a hurricane and algae won’t stop this crew, your soon taken on a while eco thriller!!!
October 13, 2025
This was a fast-paced and refreshing read!
How to Surf a Hurricane is a sci-fi heist with a cool tech twist. You can totally tell the author, Todd Medema, knows his stuff when it comes to engineering and clean energy—he makes the world feel super believable without getting too technical. The story moves fast with different character perspectives, so it doesn’t dive too deep into anyone, but it still works. I loved the positive message behind it—definitely makes you think about the future in a more hopeful way.
How to Surf a Hurricane is a sci-fi heist with a cool tech twist. You can totally tell the author, Todd Medema, knows his stuff when it comes to engineering and clean energy—he makes the world feel super believable without getting too technical. The story moves fast with different character perspectives, so it doesn’t dive too deep into anyone, but it still works. I loved the positive message behind it—definitely makes you think about the future in a more hopeful way.
December 19, 2025
How to Surf a Hurricane by Todd Medema is an electrifying ride from start to finish. Medema expertly blends high stakes adventure, innovative technology, and daring feats into a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Moro Petroff’s determination to save his revolutionary battery project drives a narrative filled with corporate sabotage, hurricane surfing, and unexpected alliances. The book is a masterclass in pacing, balancing thrilling action with clever, memorable characters. A must-read for fans of adventure, suspense, and inventive storytelling.
April 15, 2026
I listened to the audiobook version of How to Surf a Hurricane, and it made the story feel even more exciting. It’s a mix of sci-fi elements as well as plenty of action and secrecy.
I found the story to keep a steady pace, so it never feels boring. The action scenes and storm setting really stand out when you’re listening, which makes it more immersive than just reading.
A fun and different audiobook with a mix of adventure and bigger ideas about helping the planet and the climate in general. It’s a good pick if you want something entertaining but still meaningful.
I found the story to keep a steady pace, so it never feels boring. The action scenes and storm setting really stand out when you’re listening, which makes it more immersive than just reading.
A fun and different audiobook with a mix of adventure and bigger ideas about helping the planet and the climate in general. It’s a good pick if you want something entertaining but still meaningful.
August 16, 2025
How to Surf a Hurricane by Todd Medema is a really fun book I enjoyed.
Moro Petroff's is a character that I rooted for. His battery project has been cancelled by his uncle.
He believes in his project and goes on a crazy heist during a crazy storm.
Partnered with a group of diverse misfits, he attempts a heist.
I really enjoyed this funny story. The characters were diverse and also so ridiculous.
Moro is the type of guy you want to root for!
Moro Petroff's is a character that I rooted for. His battery project has been cancelled by his uncle.
He believes in his project and goes on a crazy heist during a crazy storm.
Partnered with a group of diverse misfits, he attempts a heist.
I really enjoyed this funny story. The characters were diverse and also so ridiculous.
Moro is the type of guy you want to root for!
August 23, 2025
From the very first page, I was hooked. Moro’s determination to continue his battery project despite corporate sabotage had me rooting for him the whole way. The supporting characters are quirky yet memorable—especially the hurricane surfer, who added both humor and intensity. The writing is crisp, cinematic, and smart. I read this in two sittings because I just had to know how the storm and the heist would end. Highly recommended for thriller fans!
August 23, 2025
Reading How to Surf a Hurricane felt like watching a Hollywood blockbuster. It has everything: betrayal, storms, science, humor, and heart. The tension builds steadily until the storm becomes a character in itself—both beautiful and terrifying. Moro isn’t a perfect hero, but that makes him more human. The ending is satisfying, leaving just enough room for reflection about the future of our planet. If someone doesn’t adapt this into a film, it would be a missed opportunity.
August 7, 2025
How to Surf a Hurricane is a fast-paced, high-tech heist that reads like a sci-fi Robin Hood. Think corporate corruption, hope, and rebellion, stealing from the rich to give the world a fighting chance. Instead of rehashing the post-apocalyptic spiral downward trope, this innovative story shows a vision worth working towards.
August 28, 2025
I love when a book takes me there, and this one definitely did!
It’s a wild mix of everything, but in the best way. You’ve got corporate sabotage, a high-stakes heist, and even hurricane surfing. Sounds wild, right?
Action-packed, fast-paced, and completely unique, this was such an unexpected ride and I loved it!
It’s a wild mix of everything, but in the best way. You’ve got corporate sabotage, a high-stakes heist, and even hurricane surfing. Sounds wild, right?
Action-packed, fast-paced, and completely unique, this was such an unexpected ride and I loved it!
September 20, 2025
HOW TO SURF A HURRICANE was a very interesting and entertaining story. I have not read anything like it before. The pacing was just right and I definitely appreciated how the author including some humor in the story. It held my attention perfectly!
Many thanks to Todd Medema for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to Todd Medema for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
September 25, 2025
This one was action-packed and a page-turner from cover to cover! I had never heard about hurricane surfing, so the scenes were suspenseful and really interesting. I'm not usually a fan of futuristic settings, but this one was fascinating, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 14, 2026
A good book
This is an interesting story with a lot of social commentary with one fatal flaw. The ending is too abrupt and could use a few more pages even if it turns out to be the introduction to a series. Otherwise it’s definitely worth a read
This is an interesting story with a lot of social commentary with one fatal flaw. The ending is too abrupt and could use a few more pages even if it turns out to be the introduction to a series. Otherwise it’s definitely worth a read
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