Deep Disparity

by Alex Adam

Newly laid-off from his high-tech job, Riley Benedict feels cast adrift in his prime. Cut off from his life. Yet strangely, at times, he is exhilarated by this new freedom. Alternating between anger and optimism, he is especially grateful for the ongoing friendship of his former colleagues Sue Romans and Andy Baker. Their magical team endures, beyond the workplace.

But when unimaginable turmoil erupts at Barsden Industries, each and every one of the tightly knit group may be in jeopardy. Someone or something is dangerously out of phase. Lives may be at risk. The seeds of doubt are sown. Will trust and camaraderie become suspicion and resentment? Is someone actually a traitor? But which one? Or which ones?

Detectives Peter Carrillo and Glen Toussaint are on the case, tracking the suspects with methods that are creative, if sometimes unorthodox, in a mysterious mix of tension and humor. Newport Beach to Laguna Beach, Dana Point to San Clemente, seafront to the wilderness, the suspense shimmers along California's Gold Coast.

255 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2015

About the author

Alex Adam combines world travels, a passion for language and languages, technology industry experience at all rungs of the ladder, a mania for books and reading as well as a fondness for humor of the tongue-in-cheek variety in the creation of stories. Currently a resident of Southern California, Alex is always on the lookout for new story ideas.

Additional writings, with many photos of the locations used in the setting of DEEP DISPARITY and upcoming works, may be found at http://www.alexadamblog.blogspot.com

Reviews

[Kathi Gosz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thie is suspence in a delightful setting. It is also a book I want to read a second time. I chose it on a hunt for a novel that would recall mental pictures of one of my very favorite vacation spots. When I found that Deep Disparity was set in the beautiful area around Dana Point, California, I knew that I had struck gold - a suspenseful read where I could follow the characters through some of my favorite vacation spots. I started reading, expecting to bask in the sun of the Dana Point beach and watch Pacific sunsets. Often though, I realized I was totally lost in a clever plot that had me enjoying every twist and turn. I couldn’t put the book down; I had to know what would happen next and just who was a good guy and who was not. And I was wowed by the ending - I wasn’t even close to figuring it all out. That’s why I’m going to read the book again - this time I’ll go more slowly and enjoy the scenery.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introduction of Detective Peter Carrillo. Completely absorbing story that amazed me with its twists and turns. The underlying psychology was fascinating. The characters are great and the depiction of workday life and circumstances made me alternately hoot with laughter then grimace with recognition as the story progressed. The loose cannon of the group affected everyone, everything. Detective Carrillo has his work cut out for him and doesn't disappoint. Applause for the whole story but especially the ending. Brilliant!

[Chatou11 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much and I think I will read it again in a few months. Great book !

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep Disparity was a great read. The main character, Riley Benedict, was laid off from his job and mostly keeps himself on an even keel, even though he knows he is very angry about it and even though he's never thought of himself as an angry person. But then he gets the chance to really test his feelings when his ex-boss, who Riley believes targeted him unjustly, goes missing under suspicious circumstances. But then, ex-boss draws Riley into the action by sending him mysterious phone messages, seemingly putting his life into Riley's hands.

Riley wants to run away from any association with the ex-boss. But worries that the life of the guy might be threatened. He can't help it -- he tries to help. But then he finds himself right in the middle of the mess and maybe a suspect himself.

I fell in love with the cover of the book, and bought it, and am very glad I did. I also fell in love with the story. And am still thinking about it. It was not only a great read that I couldn't put down but made me stand up and cheer for the good guys at work. And it was really fun along the way, during the book, to believe that a nasty boss might, for once, get just what he deserved. I won't give away the ending here, but I'm sure readers will like it.

[Douglas Bornemann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compelling characters and a nuanced appreciation for all the little ironies of corporate culture set the stage for this delightful debut novel. Alex Adam weaves this tale of psychological suspense with wry wit that will resonate with anyone who's ever had to endure a less-than-stellar boss. The lush Southern California setting will make visitors nostalgic and natives grateful, while the plot keeps them on the edges of their seats. Already looking forward to the next book!

Douglas J. Bornemann, Author of The Demon of Histlewick Downs