Silas has a secret he can't explain in this labyrinthian sci-fi novel, in which reality bends—and destiny hangs by a thread.
Silas Keene sees things no one else distant places, hidden truths, and sometimes, the horrors waiting in the dark. It's a gift he doesn't understand—until he meets the Ganzfeld Collective, a small group of extrasensory enthusiasts.
Encouraged by his new friends, Silas opens a door he can't close. When red eyes bloom across a stone wall and track his location, he realizes something—or someone—is watching. Soon after, covert operatives working with the Smithsonian hunt him down along with the Collective.
Dragged to a forbidden stretch of the Grand Canyon, Silas is thrust into a labyrinth that defies physics and reason. Its vast chambers shift like a living puzzle, carved with impossible precision long before the dawn of history. And he isn't alone. Among his companions are Ami Sato, whose thoughts brush against the minds of strangers; Chuck Jones, whose fractured brain sees both past and future; and Dr. Paul Morrow, the ruthless man running the op, who's determined to unlock a power beyond comprehension.
But the maze is more than stone and darkness. Something primordial lies at its heart, monitoring their every step, testing their every fear, and questioning their every choice. Success means survival. Failure could unravel civilization itself...
New York Times-bestselling author Jeremy Robinson cements his reputation as a master of high-concept thrillers with Parallax, a harrowing chronicle that will plunge listeners into a mind-bending puzzle of distorted time, perception, and identity.
Jeremy Robinson is the New York Times bestselling author of seventy novels and novellas, including Apocalypse Machine, Island 731, and SecondWorld, as well as the Jack Sigler thriller series and Project Nemesis, the highest selling, original (non-licensed) kaiju novel of all time. He’s known for mixing elements of science, history and mythology, which has earned him the #1 spot in Science Fiction and Action-Adventure, and secured him as the top creature feature author. Many of his novels have been adapted into comic books, optioned for film and TV, and translated into thirteen languages. He lives in New Hampshire with his wife and three children. Visit him at www.bewareofmonsters.com.
I absolutely loved this book! It turned out to be the perfect story I didn’t even realize I needed. The mix of humor, sci-fi, weirdness, and a genuinely engaging story is exactly why I enjoy Jeremy’s books so much. It had me smiling, laughing, and questioning reality as we know it.
I also loved all the nerdy references sprinkled throughout—they added so much charm and made the story even more fun to read.
Books like this remind me why I love reading. When you find a story you can fully dive into, connect with the characters, and feel like you’re right there alongside them on their journey… that’s pure magic.
Thank you Jeremy, for the ARC. I’m truly honored to have had the chance to read it!
I don’t often veer off course from romantasy or dark romance, however, this one makes me happy that I did. I was quite entertained and finished the book within 48 hours. I dropped the other books that I was currently reading to finish this one. I was constantly waiting for what was going to happen next. It was exciting and thrilling, with just the right of humor mixed in. I think what I enjoyed most was the little nods to gaming, movie references and TV shows. I will definitely be looking into more books by this author.
Fast Friends It doesn't take long for these characters to become friends and even less time for you to start caring about them and cheering them on. Their unique abilities help them bond and form a dedicated team to face unusual circumstances that keep you turning the pages. I loved the well-placed references to sci-fi movies and T.V. shows!
This page turner had me hooked almost from the first page! Really interesting concepts, cool cast of characters, and a fantastical adventure to follow them through. I was sad when it ended. Looking forward to more from the author!!
I enjoyed the labyrinth and the mystery of all of it, but I felt like the ending was a re-telling of other endings of his books, and the dialogue when Sarah was on scene was really just annoying.
This book was just a miss for me, but I am looking forward to the next book by JR.
I’ve been getting back into sci-fi lately after listening to Project Hail Mary and this was so much fun and scratched that itch just right. The narration was incredible, the differentiation between the different characters was done perfectly and matched according to the characters traits.
Silas moves to the Grand Canyon after he breaks up with his toxic narcissistic ex girlfriend. He decides to go meet three friends who go by the Ganzfeld collective who claim to have special abilities like astral projection, telepathy, clairvoyance, etc. they quickly find themselves on the run from an unknown government agency and a man with multiple red eyes. Sci-fi thriller Pre- Dystopian/ apocalypse Mind Reading Found family Trials
The New God Of Science Fiction Exposes New And Unexpected Abilities. Straight up, I'm writing this review as one of *the* very first people to read this book beyond Jeremy and his long time editor, Kane Gilmour, and I'm targeting this review as much to Jeremy's long time fans in his Facebook group, the Tribe, as I am to more general readers who possibly haven't ever even heard of Robinson.
With this book, Robinson - who first came to my attention with several intricate, detailed, and spot on allegories of Biblical events wrapped up as kick ass science fiction action - manages to craft a romance subplot here that is rather spicy -jalapeno level, if not habanero. And yet he manages to do this *in service to* his overall kickass science fiction action thriller. So even if the romance side gets you into the door here - and it really is both completely unexpected from Robinson and yet at least as well done as most any romance book I've ever read, and better than many of them - know that Robinson never strays far from his roots, even with this new ability.
Another new ability - and I say this next one as someone who literally has a tattoo of an image Robinson created on one of the arms he is using to type this very review - is the particularly poignant quotability deep in this book. As in, Ender's Game level quotability and profoundness in a couple of key sections in particular. Quotes I *WISH* I could share publicly, but can't until after this book releases almost six months to the day after I finished reading it.
The final new ability is perhaps the most interesting of all - this is the first book I've ever read from Robinson where even *I* - who absolutely *LOATHES* the very concept of a "trigger warning" - point blank told Robinson and Gilmour that they may want to consider adding one to this particular text. As one of the reasons I detest them so very much is the simple fact that they are *always* spoilers, no matter how generally they are crafted, unfortunately the only thing I can note here is that in two sections in particular, both in the front half of the book and both effectively side by side, Robinson brings into this tale certain real-word tragedies that he has never before brought into any of his books, tragedies that are so dark that they tend to be blights nearly any time they are even mentioned at all. (To be clear, Robinson uses them in a responsible manner that adds depth to the characters involved without glorifying - indeed, while explicitly condemning - the tragedies at hand.)
These are all depths of storytelling that Robinson has never plumbed so deeply or so well, that despite being one of the earliest readers to have read his books at all and having been a reader of his works for nearly two decades now (since *MySpace*!), I had never really known him to show. That he is adding these kinds of abilities into his storytelling now, this deep into his career and as he beings to approach his 100th novel (and may have even already broken that?), shows remarkable advancement that very few authors ever really display - which only serves to make Robinson stand out (in great ways) all the more.
And then, yes, the kickass scifi action that is Robinson's bread and butter. You're never getting far from it in this book, and yes, Robinson's more recent pop culture referencing and frequent use of all manner of cussing is equally prevalent throughout our action here. Long time fans or those just looking for a fun few hours of distraction from the so-called "real" world will find here exactly what Robinson has always done so very well - crafting an exciting and pulse pounding scifi thriller that will allow you to think if you so choose, but which also works perfectly well with all "thinking" turned off and just sitting back and enjoying the show.
Further, this is also Robinson showing some of the very profound thoughts he sometimes buries to greater or lesser degrees - this time barely buried at all, *IF* at all. Surely to get cancelled or crucified over some of the things his characters say in nearly every book he writes, this one is no different. I can tell you that even knowing Robinson as long as I have, even having shared a couple of meals over the years directly at his side... even *I* can't tell you his actual political or religious beliefs. So before you think to one star this book over those comments... know that yes, we, Robinson's long time fans, see them... and those reviews say far more about you than about him. :D
Overall quite possibly Robinson's best yet - which is not said lightly, in part due to said tattoo ;) - that also seems to possibly be leading... somewhere beyond this particular book. Will it? We shall see...
Parallax is a sci-fi suspense/thriller that really sucked me in. I listened to the audiobook, and the combination of the engaging plot, the interesting and unique characters, and the great narration by Tom Taylorson had me bingeing the whole audiobook in one go! I listened at x2.2 speed and it was still perfectly clear.
Parallax had high stakes (literally end-of-the-world level high stakes), and a surprising and exciting plot. It was also funny, despite the dramatic timer ticking down, so it was a perfect balance. The narrator really brought out the humour as well as the dramatic tension so the audiobook format really worked for me.
On a different note, the cover is so eye-catching (pun sort of intended). I couldn't stop looking at it while listening to the audiobook, so props to the cover artist!
I had a really great time listening to Parallax, and I'll definitely be picking up more books by the author in the future.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Listener Copy from Podium Entertainment but this is my voluntary and honest review.
Oof. This is the worst book I have read in quite some time. Imagine that a 17-year-old boy wrote a book by using voice-to-text on his computer. The computer made sure everything was spelled correctly, but you were still listening to a teenage boy describe a story based on all the paranormal podcasts he listens to. From aliens to MK Ultra to ancient ruins in the Grand Canyon to black ops. It's just a lot.
And the dialogue. It's crass, vulgar, and juvenile. I don't mind if that's just how a character talks, but everyone? And even the internal dialogue? It's seriously like listening to a high school locker room after practice, but for the entirety of the book.
The only reason I gave it two stars we because of the ambition of the labyrinth. The trials and scenes were more creative than the rest of the book combined, so I can appreciate that. But only that.
Just finished Parallax and absolutely enjoyed it! The storyline was a new twist on one of my favorite topics, so if you are into government conspiracies, sixth senses and the underdog, you better get started reading! It was just so refreshing but the characters are always the treat in JR stories and I love the new characters. They are fleshed out enough without spending chapters describing someone, but they feel real enough that you can relate to them. I love that JR spends time developing them and creating an individual that I would WANT as a friend. As with all of JR’s books (that I’ve read so far) there are plenty of laughs and the occasional “why” and “NO!” I really hope to see these characters in future books and to see them in a crossover, maybe, sounds good, please LOL! I’m going to finish this the way I finish all of his books with, I want more!
Parallax is a high concept science fiction thriller that explores perception, cognition, and reality distortion within a controlled experimental environment. The narrative follows Silas Keene, whose anomalous perceptions draw him into contact with both experimental groups and covert institutional forces. His experiences serve as the central axis for unfolding systemic investigation. The labyrinth setting introduces a structured environment where physical space, perception, and time behave unpredictably, reinforcing themes of instability and uncertainty. A concept driven science fiction thriller for readers interested in perception based narratives, experimental settings, and psychological suspense within speculative frameworks.
Parallax was a good suspenseful sci-fi read that kept me turning the pages. The concept is intriguing and the story moves at a fast pace, making it hard to put down. That said, this ended up being just an okay read overall. I really wanted to love it, but I never fully connected with the story or characters as much as I’d hoped. While the plot is engaging and creative, it didn’t fully land for me.
The audiobook narration by Tom Taylorson was fantastic and definitely elevated the listening experience—I actually enjoyed the audio more than the ebook.
I’d still recommend it to sci-fi thriller fans.
Thank you to Podium Entertainment for providing both the ARC and ALC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Format: 🎧 I went into Parallax kinda blind and now my brain is scrambled in the best way 😅
This was such a fast, trippy read. The whole “seeing different versions of reality at once” concept had me hooked immediately. I kept thinking I understood what was happening…and then nope.
It’s weird, a little unsettling, and super addictive. I flew through it because I needed answers.
The audio narration was amazing.
If you like mind-bending sci-fi that keeps you questioning everything…this one’s for you 👀
It's bittersweet to review this novel as it means that I've finished it. Jeremy Robinson is my favorite author but I still try to be objective when submitting reviews. The book feels familiar but completely random as far as the events unravel. This authors gift of inserting humor in the craziest places makes it that much more of a great read. No way you'll see the end coming as you're kept off balance chapter by chapter. Do yourself a favor and dive into this one. Easy five stars.
Rounding up to 3.5 stars. A little disappointed with this one, but it’s still a fun read. Jeremy Robinson has some very crazy, unique stories and they’re never boring. This one just leaned a little too silly for me. The plot to this was really interesting but it just seemed like nothing was being taken seriously by any of the characters. I didn’t quite get the story I thought I would be getting based on the synopsis. But, like I said, still a fun read. Interesting story and funny. Looking forward to what’s next.
3.5 ⭐️ I’ve only read a few books from JR. I read the Hunter series and loved it, it was pretty out there and crazy but in a good way. I liked The Infinite book but didn’t go on from book 2. I do love weird speculative fantasy/science fiction and he fills that itch really well. Definitely a great star listen/read for me. It didn’t blow me away but was a solid and fun listen.
Tom Taylorson did an excellent job narrating the audio book. I could easily distinguish between all the characters with his voice alone.
Parallax By Jeremy Robinson This is one wild ride and I really enjoyed it! It had so many things I enjoy in a book, like psychic abilities, empaths, mind reading, other psychic phenomenon, time travel, humor, and so much more. The story was fast, creepy at times, and fascinating too. Loved the characters. They grew on me as the story continued. The bad guy has two pupils and two red iris' in each eye. That alone is creepy! I like this author's books and this one really is excellent!
I don't know how Jeremy does it. This is a superb story with engaging characters and situations that really make you think and ponder what you would do. No spoilers, but the ending makes you take a good look at yourself. Thank you for another terrific story
Parallax by Jeremy Robinson is exactly the kind of book that makes you cancel your plans. The plot moves at a breakneck pace while weaving in remote viewing and psychic abilities in a way that feels grounded and urgent.
Robinson effortlessly blends action with big ideas. If you enjoy fast-moving thrillers with a paranormal edge, this one will absolutely deliver. Highly recommended.
An absolutely amazing fresh take on sci fi and government conspiracies. I couldn't put it down as the story kept unfolding. nothing about either the story line plot twists, or character development was what you might be expecting. I was in suspense to the very end.
Parallax is such a great SciFi/Thriller that had me listening straight through to find out how the story turns out. I love the characters and the way they use their "uniqueness" to work together. Tom Taylorson's narration is excellent, and his portrayal of each character adds so much to the story!
This was a very fun read, so much so that I found it hard to put down (just one more chapter, ok one more, and 10 chapters or so later… and I’m up way past my bedtime)! This story was a heck of a good time. As usual, Jeremy mixes in multiple genres, and you really have no idea where things are gonna go, and you can always expect to find some humor in the story. This literally had me laughing out loud and even cracking up at one point. I couldn’t help but feel good while reading this, and not just because it is such a good read, but more than that. Deeper, that feeling after talking with a good friend about a problem, and feeling that everything is gonna be ok. That feeling. I recommend this book to anybody, and I can’t say that for most books because everybody likes what they like. But I feel anyone that typically reads any other genre would enjoy this as well. And I recommend this to you, yes you, who is reading this review now. Do it, buy it, What are you waiting for? You won’t be disappointed!
Another truly amazing book by an author who is so creative with his writing. Not only is Jeremy a truly gifted writer, he is also very accessible. He has a facebook group and answers everyone's questions in an extremely timely manner.
I read to escape .. to leave via my imagination to somewhere else. I was right along side Ami and "the guys" the while way through. I had a great time. .. exactly what I was looking for !