What do you think?
Rate this book
The Game Master
It’s not whether you live or die, it’s how you play the game. While in Vegas for the American Poker Grand Slam, BB Thomas—the Game Master—is suddenly arrested by the FBI and taken to a top-secret laboratory. A scientist has been murdered in a bizarre manner, and BB’s daughter has been kidnapped. Reluctantly joining forces with his ex-wife, Linden, BB plunges into a labyrinthine mystery incorporating the world’s oldest and best-known games and taking them to Paris, Dubai, Pyongyang, and Alexandria. Pursued by a relentless FBI agent and an unknown assailant who wants him stopped at any cost, BB races to uncover an insidious plot involving secret societies, ancient cover-ups, and savage vengeance. Someone is playing a deadly game, and the object is the destruction of every government on the face of the earth—no matter how many people die in the process.
- GenresFiction
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2015
157 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
William Bernhardt
96 books511 followersWilliam Bernhardt is the author of over sixty books, including the bestselling Daniel Pike and Ben Kincaid legal thrillers, the historical novels Challengers of the Dust and Nemesis, three books of poetry, and the ten Red Sneaker books on fiction writing.
In addition, Bernhardt founded the Red Sneaker Writers Center to mentor aspiring writers. The Center hosts an annual writers conference (WriterCon), small-group seminars, a monthly newsletter, and a bi-weekly podcast. More than three dozen of Bernhardt’s students have subsequently published with major houses. He is also the owner of Balkan Press, which publishes poetry and fiction as well as the literary journal Conclave.
Bernhardt has received the Southern Writers Guild’s Gold Medal Award, the Royden B. Davis Distinguished Author Award (University of Pennsylvania) and the H. Louise Cobb Distinguished Author Award (Oklahoma State), which is given "in recognition of an outstanding body of work that has profoundly influenced the way in which we understand ourselves and American society at large." He has been nominated for the Oklahoma Book Award eighteen times in three different categories, and has won the award twice. Library Journal called him “the master of the courtroom drama.” The Vancouver Sun called him “the American equivalent of P.G. Wodehouse and John Mortimer.”
In addition to his novels and poetry, he has written plays, a musical (book and score), humor, children stories, biography, and puzzles. He has edited two anthologies (Legal Briefs and Natural Suspect) as fundraisers for The Nature Conservancy and the Children’s Legal Defense Fund. OSU named him “Oklahoma’s Renaissance Man.”
In his spare time, he has enjoyed surfing, digging for dinosaurs, trekking through the Himalayas, paragliding, scuba diving, caving, zip-lining over the canopy of the Costa Rican rain forest, and jumping out of an airplane at 10,000 feet. In 2013, he became a Jeopardy! champion winning over $20,000.
When Bernhardt delivered the keynote address at the San Francisco Writers Conference, chairman Michael Larsen noted that in addition to penning novels, Bernhardt can “write a sonnet, play a sonata, plant a garden, try a lawsuit, teach a class, cook a gourmet meal, beat you at Scrabble, and work the New York Times crossword in under five minutes.”
In addition, Bernhardt founded the Red Sneaker Writers Center to mentor aspiring writers. The Center hosts an annual writers conference (WriterCon), small-group seminars, a monthly newsletter, and a bi-weekly podcast. More than three dozen of Bernhardt’s students have subsequently published with major houses. He is also the owner of Balkan Press, which publishes poetry and fiction as well as the literary journal Conclave.
Bernhardt has received the Southern Writers Guild’s Gold Medal Award, the Royden B. Davis Distinguished Author Award (University of Pennsylvania) and the H. Louise Cobb Distinguished Author Award (Oklahoma State), which is given "in recognition of an outstanding body of work that has profoundly influenced the way in which we understand ourselves and American society at large." He has been nominated for the Oklahoma Book Award eighteen times in three different categories, and has won the award twice. Library Journal called him “the master of the courtroom drama.” The Vancouver Sun called him “the American equivalent of P.G. Wodehouse and John Mortimer.”
In addition to his novels and poetry, he has written plays, a musical (book and score), humor, children stories, biography, and puzzles. He has edited two anthologies (Legal Briefs and Natural Suspect) as fundraisers for The Nature Conservancy and the Children’s Legal Defense Fund. OSU named him “Oklahoma’s Renaissance Man.”
In his spare time, he has enjoyed surfing, digging for dinosaurs, trekking through the Himalayas, paragliding, scuba diving, caving, zip-lining over the canopy of the Costa Rican rain forest, and jumping out of an airplane at 10,000 feet. In 2013, he became a Jeopardy! champion winning over $20,000.
When Bernhardt delivered the keynote address at the San Francisco Writers Conference, chairman Michael Larsen noted that in addition to penning novels, Bernhardt can “write a sonnet, play a sonata, plant a garden, try a lawsuit, teach a class, cook a gourmet meal, beat you at Scrabble, and work the New York Times crossword in under five minutes.”
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 3, 2015
William Bernhardt’s latest thriller, The Game Master, came to me at a time when I was ready for a break from my usual reading practice. I have been reading (and enjoying) The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins and Edge of Eternity by Ken Follett on my Kindle and both are fairly lengthy.
When The Game Master appeared, I decided to devote all of my time to it, also putting aside my regular nonfiction, periodical and writer-related reading – I was on a reading vacation. What I didn’t anticipate was that I would get so caught up in the story that I would let some other things slide, including getting ready for company and a typing project with a deadline. But vacations (and snow days) are times when you suspend the rules and enjoy yourself and that’s what I did.
I am not a heavy reader in the thriller/mystery genres. I read fairly complex character-driven literary or general fiction usually about families or friendships. I was a bit concerned about writing a review for a book that I might not like. I like to consider my reviews as recommendations; I will rarely finish a book that I wouldn’t recommend. I needn’t have worried.
If you have an interest in games, modern or ancient, this book will keep you engaged. (My one criticism of the book is that the cover, which pictures a chess board, may be misleading. I am not a chess player and was afraid that I might be left behind – no worry.) An interesting exercise for the Bernhardt family might be to guess the number of games that are mentioned and/or described in their father’s book. Expertise in all the games is not necessary because diagrams guide the reader. Thrown in for good measure are action scenes that take place in the Bibliotheque nationale de France and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. What more could a librarian/bookwoman ask for?
The answer, of course, is a great story – one which keeps you turning the pages from the beginning, when the “Game Master” sets out to rescue his kidnapped daughter at any cost, until the end, when the world is seconds away from the apocalypse and it seems that no human can turn it around. We are introduced to world figures who bear an uncomfortable likeness to those who have their hands on the controls of our planet, whether by destiny or design. We learn a little about mathematics and game theory and philosophy. And we experience (probably without noticing) excellent pacing.
I sat in on a writer’s conference session by William Bernhardt where he introduced the story arc, and led us through the parts of a novel and where suspense and tension should build to the climax. I don’t remember him using a particular novel to illustrate, but would suggest that The Game Maker would be good suggested reading before participation in such a session. Or for a snow day. Or on a vacation. Or a long weekend . . .
When The Game Master appeared, I decided to devote all of my time to it, also putting aside my regular nonfiction, periodical and writer-related reading – I was on a reading vacation. What I didn’t anticipate was that I would get so caught up in the story that I would let some other things slide, including getting ready for company and a typing project with a deadline. But vacations (and snow days) are times when you suspend the rules and enjoy yourself and that’s what I did.
I am not a heavy reader in the thriller/mystery genres. I read fairly complex character-driven literary or general fiction usually about families or friendships. I was a bit concerned about writing a review for a book that I might not like. I like to consider my reviews as recommendations; I will rarely finish a book that I wouldn’t recommend. I needn’t have worried.
If you have an interest in games, modern or ancient, this book will keep you engaged. (My one criticism of the book is that the cover, which pictures a chess board, may be misleading. I am not a chess player and was afraid that I might be left behind – no worry.) An interesting exercise for the Bernhardt family might be to guess the number of games that are mentioned and/or described in their father’s book. Expertise in all the games is not necessary because diagrams guide the reader. Thrown in for good measure are action scenes that take place in the Bibliotheque nationale de France and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. What more could a librarian/bookwoman ask for?
The answer, of course, is a great story – one which keeps you turning the pages from the beginning, when the “Game Master” sets out to rescue his kidnapped daughter at any cost, until the end, when the world is seconds away from the apocalypse and it seems that no human can turn it around. We are introduced to world figures who bear an uncomfortable likeness to those who have their hands on the controls of our planet, whether by destiny or design. We learn a little about mathematics and game theory and philosophy. And we experience (probably without noticing) excellent pacing.
I sat in on a writer’s conference session by William Bernhardt where he introduced the story arc, and led us through the parts of a novel and where suspense and tension should build to the climax. I don’t remember him using a particular novel to illustrate, but would suggest that The Game Maker would be good suggested reading before participation in such a session. Or for a snow day. Or on a vacation. Or a long weekend . . .
March 17, 2015
I really liked this book. It was different in a lot of ways. Mainly because of the games. Board games where some I knew and others I have never heard of, but are real games. The Game Master was a fanatic about them, but made him an interesting character. Especially in the way he thought. I also have to say the computer was strange and hope they never come to that. All in all, there are all kinds of elements that bring this book to a conclusion. Suppose you'll have to read it to find out what I'm talking about!
October 30, 2015
I loved this book. I have enjoyed all of the books by William Bernhardt that I have read, but this one especially pleased me. The incorporation of games into the plot, with drastic consequences if the player fails to win, was a fantastic plot device. The characters are well drawn, as always in a Bernhardt novel and the plot engaging and complex. The pace of the story is fast, but not so fast that it leaves the reader behind. I read it in one sitting and was captivated throughout. I'd like to see more with these characters.
November 12, 2015
This book will appeal to those who follow the technical aspect of chess or other strategic games. I enjoyed much of the book, but lost interest during explanations. I am a follower of this author, but wasn't thrilled by this one. I don't know if I received an early on-line version or not, but the lack of editing was distracting and disappointing.
June 29, 2021
Fascinating Example of Author Immaturity
Thoroughly researched with a philosophical structure guaranteed to make you think about the world in which we live and the incredible variety of ability possessed by humankind. It’s packaged in a knee-jerk plot that make The Game Master a fast read with thought provoking minutes. What was almost a good book falls far short when you have to giggle as the author is unable to resist tucking his unrelenting hatred of all things conservative into the ending. Hoping he eventually matures enough to take his own “hero” to heart that there is plenty of blame to go around and nobody wins by assigning it—and that real readers treasure information, not one-sided rants.
Thoroughly researched with a philosophical structure guaranteed to make you think about the world in which we live and the incredible variety of ability possessed by humankind. It’s packaged in a knee-jerk plot that make The Game Master a fast read with thought provoking minutes. What was almost a good book falls far short when you have to giggle as the author is unable to resist tucking his unrelenting hatred of all things conservative into the ending. Hoping he eventually matures enough to take his own “hero” to heart that there is plenty of blame to go around and nobody wins by assigning it—and that real readers treasure information, not one-sided rants.
August 2, 2017
Well-thought-out and intricate plot. I've often thought that politics and even corporate actions all felt like games--someone controlling others to "win." This book capitalizes on this idea, as well as actual games the protagonist has to solve to rescue his daughter (and so much more). But who is actually playing whom? Great twists in the story.
March 10, 2021
Very good book for people who understand math, game theory and love a complicated mystery.
January 24, 2017
Enjoyable quick read
Fast and furious read, one long chase scene! Never any down time, I would not recommend reading right before bed. Hopefully this is a start of a new series.
Fast and furious read, one long chase scene! Never any down time, I would not recommend reading right before bed. Hopefully this is a start of a new series.
February 28, 2017
I had a hard time finishing this book. I prefer the author's Kincaid series
March 14, 2015
If you love puzzles, as I do, you’ll like this book.
BB—or The Game Master—is pulled into a worldwide intrigue when his daughter is kidnapped. BB must solve a series of puzzles in order to save her and, unknown to him, save the world. It is a fast-paced thriller, well-written and an overall enjoyable read.
The Game Master’s ex-wife joins him on the quest, and there humorous banter helps alleviate the tension. At times, I wondered how they could be so witty while there daughter was being threatened, but I know many people who use humor during times of stress
While I enjoyed the book, there were a few instances that brought me out of the story. From the inciting incident on, there were things I just couldn't reconcile. (How could…?) I won’t elaborate, as I would have to post a spoiler alert. Perhaps it’s just me, as I’m a very logical person. If something doesn't jibe, it throws me and then it’s hard to fully invest. I also didn't understand some of the characters’ motivations, especially at the end. One switcheroo left me scratching my head. Not so much the switch, but the way the character chose the reveal and the rather quick resolution.
These were somewhat minor things that could have been resolved very easily, so I chose to ignore them and just enjoy the read.
All-in-all, though, a fun thriller. It reminded of The Da Vince Code (in a good sort of way).
BB—or The Game Master—is pulled into a worldwide intrigue when his daughter is kidnapped. BB must solve a series of puzzles in order to save her and, unknown to him, save the world. It is a fast-paced thriller, well-written and an overall enjoyable read.
The Game Master’s ex-wife joins him on the quest, and there humorous banter helps alleviate the tension. At times, I wondered how they could be so witty while there daughter was being threatened, but I know many people who use humor during times of stress
While I enjoyed the book, there were a few instances that brought me out of the story. From the inciting incident on, there were things I just couldn't reconcile. (How could…?) I won’t elaborate, as I would have to post a spoiler alert. Perhaps it’s just me, as I’m a very logical person. If something doesn't jibe, it throws me and then it’s hard to fully invest. I also didn't understand some of the characters’ motivations, especially at the end. One switcheroo left me scratching my head. Not so much the switch, but the way the character chose the reveal and the rather quick resolution.
These were somewhat minor things that could have been resolved very easily, so I chose to ignore them and just enjoy the read.
All-in-all, though, a fun thriller. It reminded of The Da Vince Code (in a good sort of way).
February 7, 2017
The game master
Outstanding use of the minutiae of games, politics, and computer to develop a truly good step toward a possible future. Beyond my comprehension in several areas, the obvious research the author had done permitted belief in something I didn't understand.
Outstanding use of the minutiae of games, politics, and computer to develop a truly good step toward a possible future. Beyond my comprehension in several areas, the obvious research the author had done permitted belief in something I didn't understand.
April 28, 2015
Life is just a game, or is it?
In this fast-paced thriller which merges the gaming world with geopolitics, the players plan to win at any cost. Nothing is sacred, not even life itself under this win-at-all-costs philosophy.
BB and his ex-wife Linden have 48 hours to find their kidnapped daughter or she’s dead. Game clues lead them from country to country. Many times the odds seem impossibly stacked against them. Old friends, new enemies, and the long arm of the law become threats as the clock winds down.
Everyone appears to have a secret advisor, so who’s really in charge of this game?
Detailed and engaging. I had to know what happened next.
Maggie Toussaint aka Rigel Carson for Muddy Rose Reviews
In this fast-paced thriller which merges the gaming world with geopolitics, the players plan to win at any cost. Nothing is sacred, not even life itself under this win-at-all-costs philosophy.
BB and his ex-wife Linden have 48 hours to find their kidnapped daughter or she’s dead. Game clues lead them from country to country. Many times the odds seem impossibly stacked against them. Old friends, new enemies, and the long arm of the law become threats as the clock winds down.
Everyone appears to have a secret advisor, so who’s really in charge of this game?
Detailed and engaging. I had to know what happened next.
Maggie Toussaint aka Rigel Carson for Muddy Rose Reviews
May 15, 2016
William Bernhardt's "The Game Master" is the Da Vinci Code of 2015. Unique characters, puzzles, and an integrated history of so many games that have bearing on the future of the world. Plenty of twists and a blazing pace makes for a great read.
April 14, 2015
I found this
book very hard to put down! When it came time for me to do something else, I would postpone what ever I was supposed to do because couldnt wait to see what happened next.
book very hard to put down! When it came time for me to do something else, I would postpone what ever I was supposed to do because couldnt wait to see what happened next.
Read
March 21, 2016I really like this guys legal thrillers. It's been some time since he wrote one, so I was excited to see a new novel. However, this one couldn't keep me. To much going on and by 33% of the way in, still very disconnected. Sorry, I'll wait for more legal stuff
January 14, 2017
Intriguing
The use of the gaming background was ingenious. The concept kept you interested interested in the continuing interactions between the antagonist and the protagonist. The hallmark of an excellent writer who did his homework. Kudos
The use of the gaming background was ingenious. The concept kept you interested interested in the continuing interactions between the antagonist and the protagonist. The hallmark of an excellent writer who did his homework. Kudos
March 11, 2015
A real page-turning thriller! I couldn't put it down. This book is filled with twists and turns the reader can't see coming. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Game Master!
June 19, 2015
I love William Bernhardt
....but I was not impressed with this book. I would be happier with a mystery. I am hoping that will be his next book.
....but I was not impressed with this book. I would be happier with a mystery. I am hoping that will be his next book.
January 18, 2016
The beginning and end were good. The middle dragged just a bit.
June 5, 2018
It was very good. Computer trying running the world--trying to start world war 3.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews