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Diamond Rain: An Emerging Quantum World Technothriller
Will Thomas shake off his run of bad luck?
From tough beginnings in the Bogside of Derry during the Irish 'Troubles', Thomas and his family slip away to coastal Maine. After more hardship, Thomas forms lasting bonds with Lanky and Billy and he embarks upon a career as a photographer.
Thomas takes a job with an international news organization when events threaten to overturn the world. During an assignment, chance brings him Kefira, only to see her snatched away from him in the blink of an eye. But all is not lost. Kefira manages to pass a powerful technology to Thomas just as she is on the verge of kidnap.
Equipped with Nanotech, Thomas believes he can rescue her and defeat a reincarnated Mao Tse Tung in Central China. Can he master the Nanosuit and reverse his fortunes? One thing is certain, he'll do everything in his power to try.
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Thomas takes a job with an international news organization when events threaten to overturn the world. During an assignment, chance brings him Kefira, only to see her snatched away from him in the blink of an eye. But all is not lost. Kefira manages to pass a powerful technology to Thomas just as she is on the verge of kidnap.
Equipped with Nanotech, Thomas believes he can rescue her and defeat a reincarnated Mao Tse Tung in Central China. Can he master the Nanosuit and reverse his fortunes? One thing is certain, he'll do everything in his power to try.
Scroll up to grab your copy now!
- GenresScience Fiction
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2015
5 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 14, 2015
Although not my usual read and not quite my cup of tea, I found myself drawn into this book in spite of myself. The author tends to write in short, clipped sentences which kind-of match the military feel of the book.
Basically, the idea is mind control, that is taking over the world without violence, but nevertheless lethal. The main protagonist: Thomas, wins our hearts by starting from very humble beginnings, then becoming an expert in his field of photography, then meeting a woman with powers that change his tack completely.
No more spoilers, but I did love this book and was sorry it ended. 5 stars.
Basically, the idea is mind control, that is taking over the world without violence, but nevertheless lethal. The main protagonist: Thomas, wins our hearts by starting from very humble beginnings, then becoming an expert in his field of photography, then meeting a woman with powers that change his tack completely.
No more spoilers, but I did love this book and was sorry it ended. 5 stars.
February 9, 2016
This is science fiction by an author who knows how to tell a story. It’s a complex thriller with elements of the spy genre coupled with a background romance and set in a not-too-distant future on an Earth where nanotechnology has developed in frightening directions.
The characters are all well drawn and totally credible. Settings are placed into the story unobtrusively and given enough descriptive detail to enable the reader to imagine where they are. Pace is good and sustained throughout.
Whilst a few readers with little scientific knowledge may struggle occasionally with the technology that drives the book, most will find it readily accessible.
The book paints a terrifying picture of a near future dominated by a corrupt and greedy leader (so, no surprises there) but does it in an unexpected manner. It was refreshing to read a scifi story not peopled with Americans for a change. I enjoyed the read and recommend it to all those who enjoy a good story.
The characters are all well drawn and totally credible. Settings are placed into the story unobtrusively and given enough descriptive detail to enable the reader to imagine where they are. Pace is good and sustained throughout.
Whilst a few readers with little scientific knowledge may struggle occasionally with the technology that drives the book, most will find it readily accessible.
The book paints a terrifying picture of a near future dominated by a corrupt and greedy leader (so, no surprises there) but does it in an unexpected manner. It was refreshing to read a scifi story not peopled with Americans for a change. I enjoyed the read and recommend it to all those who enjoy a good story.
May 8, 2015
An interesting, action-packed, and suspenseful adventure science thriller
Even though this is not my favorite kind of genre, the description sounded interesting, and the reviews were good. I thought I’ll give it a try, and I’m glad I bought the book. It was an action packed and suspenseful adventure science thriller with an intriguing plot and colorful characters.
The only reason I gave the book three stars was the far-fetched technology. It was unbelievable and trying to understand it, somewhat disrupted me from keeping up with the story.
However, if you’re into action, adventure, techno-science thrillers, you’ll find it an interesting read.
Even though this is not my favorite kind of genre, the description sounded interesting, and the reviews were good. I thought I’ll give it a try, and I’m glad I bought the book. It was an action packed and suspenseful adventure science thriller with an intriguing plot and colorful characters.
The only reason I gave the book three stars was the far-fetched technology. It was unbelievable and trying to understand it, somewhat disrupted me from keeping up with the story.
However, if you’re into action, adventure, techno-science thrillers, you’ll find it an interesting read.
April 14, 2015
This second installment of the Spy Stories and Tales of Intrigue Series was a pleasure to read. Its predecessor, Tsunami Connection, possessed many fine qualities, although its first edition lacked somewhat in the dialogue department.
This cannot be said about Diamond Rain, however. There has clearly been an abundant improvement in the author’s ability to convey dialogue, and this has allowed me to immerse myself in an extremely well imagined story.
The basic premise is the following: what happens when a corrupt and power-hungry government gains hold of a technology capable of ensnaring the will of its own people, turning them into unwilling (or perhaps willing through coercion) occupiers of foreign lands? Who would dare put a stop to such an outwardly unarmed “invasion”?
The answer lies in the hands of a motley group of Mossad operatives, Irish survivors of the “troubles” and an unwitting Chinese-American reporter. The scope of the action is vast, the events taking us across entire continents in a whirlwind of action and suspense.
I do, however, warn potential readers that the technology on display is nigh unbelievable, especially for those readers who gravitate towards hard science fiction. This is an important detail, since readers who are highly demanding of well-grounded technological concepts tend to nitpick and easily become disenchanted with a story. If so, then perhaps this story isn’t for you.
But this is not a story of hard science fiction. It is, in essence, a techno-thriller where plot and action collide head-on at breakneck speed, entertaining its readers with its interconnected subplots and colorful characters. Those who enjoy a good ride will surely get a kick out of Diamond Rain!
On a more technical level, I declare this book to have been well edited and its locations very well researched, this last detail a very important issue for the more well-travelled among us.
In all, I consider Diamond Rain to be very fine reading material for those attracted to the genre, and I will be keeping an eye on future installments of this series.
This cannot be said about Diamond Rain, however. There has clearly been an abundant improvement in the author’s ability to convey dialogue, and this has allowed me to immerse myself in an extremely well imagined story.
The basic premise is the following: what happens when a corrupt and power-hungry government gains hold of a technology capable of ensnaring the will of its own people, turning them into unwilling (or perhaps willing through coercion) occupiers of foreign lands? Who would dare put a stop to such an outwardly unarmed “invasion”?
The answer lies in the hands of a motley group of Mossad operatives, Irish survivors of the “troubles” and an unwitting Chinese-American reporter. The scope of the action is vast, the events taking us across entire continents in a whirlwind of action and suspense.
I do, however, warn potential readers that the technology on display is nigh unbelievable, especially for those readers who gravitate towards hard science fiction. This is an important detail, since readers who are highly demanding of well-grounded technological concepts tend to nitpick and easily become disenchanted with a story. If so, then perhaps this story isn’t for you.
But this is not a story of hard science fiction. It is, in essence, a techno-thriller where plot and action collide head-on at breakneck speed, entertaining its readers with its interconnected subplots and colorful characters. Those who enjoy a good ride will surely get a kick out of Diamond Rain!
On a more technical level, I declare this book to have been well edited and its locations very well researched, this last detail a very important issue for the more well-travelled among us.
In all, I consider Diamond Rain to be very fine reading material for those attracted to the genre, and I will be keeping an eye on future installments of this series.
June 25, 2015
What form might warfare take in the future? With Diamond Rain, the second of the Spy Stories and Tales of Intrigue Series (after the Tsunami Connection), the talented Michael Gallagher give you his answer – a mind-boggling mix of espionage and high-tech warfare. Despite sharing characters & events with the first book, it is not a direct sequel but instead exists in the same universe and follows a different protagonist, Thomas, who is thrust headlong into war against an insane Chinese general plotting to take over the world with cutting-edge Nano-technology.
Right from the first page, the pace of events never lets up, moving at breakneck speed from one situation to another. The novel is well structured and the technology employed, while insanely advanced, is highly imaginative and well thought out – I think even Iron Man would be jealous of the nano-suits used within the story. Amongst the high technology, the characters are well realised and developed, with back stories designed to complement rather than slow the pace. By the end of the book, you’re left breathless and looking forward to further stories in the series.
If there are any criticisms, you might argue that the technology is a little too advanced for its presumed present/near future setting. However, after a while, you just accept that this is the way things are and get swept along with the story. Hence, if you are willing to suspend your disbelief, you will have a great time with Diamond Rain. Recommended.
Right from the first page, the pace of events never lets up, moving at breakneck speed from one situation to another. The novel is well structured and the technology employed, while insanely advanced, is highly imaginative and well thought out – I think even Iron Man would be jealous of the nano-suits used within the story. Amongst the high technology, the characters are well realised and developed, with back stories designed to complement rather than slow the pace. By the end of the book, you’re left breathless and looking forward to further stories in the series.
If there are any criticisms, you might argue that the technology is a little too advanced for its presumed present/near future setting. However, after a while, you just accept that this is the way things are and get swept along with the story. Hence, if you are willing to suspend your disbelief, you will have a great time with Diamond Rain. Recommended.
April 14, 2015
***** THE POWER OF SUITS!
Although science fiction is usually not ‘my thing,’ having heard good things about Michael Gallagher’s writing, I thought I’d give his DIAMOND RAIN: ADVENTURE SCIENCE FICTION TECHNO THRILLER (BOOK 2) a try.
Glad I did! A multi-layered, highly descriptive work, it starts out at an archeological site with Thomas, a skillful photographer, Sue Ann, a journalist, and Kefira, an Israeli Moussad agent. Kefira ‘disappears’ and we’re off and running; running amidst sirens, helicopters, and military weaponry. As a Chinese madman tries to take over the planet, sci-fi fans—and unexpectedly, myself––can’t help but get caught up in this page-turning novel, filled with passing molecules, memory chips, nano-suits, mental implants, time travel, energy shields, and mind control.
Although extremely impressed with Gallagher’s techno knowledge/vocabulary, I do admit that my favorite part of the book was the childhood background story of Thomas. The descriptions of 1969 Ireland and IRA members fighting the British up close and personal along with his escape to the U.S. is truly touching. I also enjoyed reading about his growing up in the U.S. with nerdy, brilliant boys who later come into play and assist him in this drone-infested, high-stakes, save-the-world book. Definitely recommended!!
Although science fiction is usually not ‘my thing,’ having heard good things about Michael Gallagher’s writing, I thought I’d give his DIAMOND RAIN: ADVENTURE SCIENCE FICTION TECHNO THRILLER (BOOK 2) a try.
Glad I did! A multi-layered, highly descriptive work, it starts out at an archeological site with Thomas, a skillful photographer, Sue Ann, a journalist, and Kefira, an Israeli Moussad agent. Kefira ‘disappears’ and we’re off and running; running amidst sirens, helicopters, and military weaponry. As a Chinese madman tries to take over the planet, sci-fi fans—and unexpectedly, myself––can’t help but get caught up in this page-turning novel, filled with passing molecules, memory chips, nano-suits, mental implants, time travel, energy shields, and mind control.
Although extremely impressed with Gallagher’s techno knowledge/vocabulary, I do admit that my favorite part of the book was the childhood background story of Thomas. The descriptions of 1969 Ireland and IRA members fighting the British up close and personal along with his escape to the U.S. is truly touching. I also enjoyed reading about his growing up in the U.S. with nerdy, brilliant boys who later come into play and assist him in this drone-infested, high-stakes, save-the-world book. Definitely recommended!!
April 10, 2015
Diamond Rain: Adventure Science Fiction Techno Thriller (The Spy Stories and Tales of Intrigue Series Book 2)by Michael James Gallagher is a brilliant spy thriller that had me hooked from the first page and it never lets up until the awesome finale. I was reminded of Alistair MacLean, Robert Ludlum and Eric Van Lustbader for this awesome actioner would easily look comfortable alongside them.
Thomas takes a job with an international news organization when worldwide events threaten to overturn everything. During an assignment he meets the beautiful Kefira who gives him a new technology - a Nanosuit. Then she is kidnapped by mysterious forces. The world teeters on the edge of mass destruction when an insane Chinese general goes on the rampage. Cue CIA agents, Mossad and all manner of spies desperate to maintain order.
It is up to Thomas and his Nanosuit to save the day and Kefira. No pressure!
Very highly recommended!
Thomas takes a job with an international news organization when worldwide events threaten to overturn everything. During an assignment he meets the beautiful Kefira who gives him a new technology - a Nanosuit. Then she is kidnapped by mysterious forces. The world teeters on the edge of mass destruction when an insane Chinese general goes on the rampage. Cue CIA agents, Mossad and all manner of spies desperate to maintain order.
It is up to Thomas and his Nanosuit to save the day and Kefira. No pressure!
Very highly recommended!
June 19, 2015
It has always been the case that whoever has the most advanced weapons technology wins the war and in this story, in the not too distant future, so too it would seem to be the outcome. However, the ingenuity of the individual should not go amiss as in this case, our hero Thomas, a skilful photographer with zero training in nano-tech technology manages to outsmart the very brightest with the very best of high-tech gizmos (capable of taking over the world, no less). Of course his interest in saving the world perhaps has more to do with a woman than anything else so it's lucky for us that his love interest, Kefira (who goes missing for a long portion of the tale) is enchanting and beautiful (and quite the warrior with a high sense of duty which rubs off on Thomas). Although this is a non-stop adventure I liked the back story of Thomas and maybe the author might think of developing a similar novel with such a personal empathy he showed when writing it.
April 17, 2015
I got this book not really knowing what to expect and really enjoyed it.
I was expecting something like a James Bond thriller (of the sort like one of the Roger Moore movies). I think the unique technology the author used in the story pushed it closer to science fiction than a Bond film. The technology was really different (and both the protagonist and antagonist have slightly different versions and use it different ways). It was fresh and believable.
Also unique was the political intrigue in the story. I've not seen a book before with a story using the two nations in the book as major players against each other.
If you like James Bond movies, I think you would really enjoy this book. It has all the action of one. It's also got the girl the hero must save or save the world. It's got a technology that is just beyond current tech.
A great read that you'll want to finish.
I was expecting something like a James Bond thriller (of the sort like one of the Roger Moore movies). I think the unique technology the author used in the story pushed it closer to science fiction than a Bond film. The technology was really different (and both the protagonist and antagonist have slightly different versions and use it different ways). It was fresh and believable.
Also unique was the political intrigue in the story. I've not seen a book before with a story using the two nations in the book as major players against each other.
If you like James Bond movies, I think you would really enjoy this book. It has all the action of one. It's also got the girl the hero must save or save the world. It's got a technology that is just beyond current tech.
A great read that you'll want to finish.
June 4, 2015
Science Fiction Meets James Bond
Thomas meets the intriguing Mossad agent Kefira. She’s drawn to him because he is a rare individual. Not because of his looks or profession, but because she cannot read his mind. The action goes full tilt at this point as Kefira is kidnapped. She has just enough time to give her nanosuit to Thomas. Her nanosuit? Yes, it's one of the brilliant pieces of technology dreamed up by author Michael Gallagher.
The rest of the book deals with an insane Chinese General bent on world domination. The intriguing plot twists, technology, ongoing action, and well-written characters, makes for an exciting read.
This author's writing is crisp, with engaging dialogue. His imagination is incredible. There is so much here for you to enjoy.
Thomas meets the intriguing Mossad agent Kefira. She’s drawn to him because he is a rare individual. Not because of his looks or profession, but because she cannot read his mind. The action goes full tilt at this point as Kefira is kidnapped. She has just enough time to give her nanosuit to Thomas. Her nanosuit? Yes, it's one of the brilliant pieces of technology dreamed up by author Michael Gallagher.
The rest of the book deals with an insane Chinese General bent on world domination. The intriguing plot twists, technology, ongoing action, and well-written characters, makes for an exciting read.
This author's writing is crisp, with engaging dialogue. His imagination is incredible. There is so much here for you to enjoy.
April 12, 2015
Imaginative thriller, outlining a Chinese attempt to bring about world domination, is set in a number of locations such as the Middle East, Northern Ireland, Italy or London, with strong local color, and well-sculpted-and-defined characters and situations. Realism rubs shoulders with paranormal elements, and with romantic and expertly-drawn action sequences. Michael James Gallagher has the knack of creating a viable and momentous world-picture at the same time as peopling it with sympathetic and realistically-drawn characters. Second in the series. Not to be missed.
June 19, 2015
After enjoying Tsunami Connection, I was thrilled to see this follow up and quickly tore through its pages. While it kept the same fast pace and exotic destinations as the first book, I LOVED all the technology included in Diamond Rain. Add to that the intrigue, mystery and romance, and you've got yourself a winner. Bravo to Gallagher for his impressive follow up. Highly recommend to all my thriller/suspense friends!
Side note - I literally can not think about the title of this book without Prince singing Purple Rain in my head. Maybe it's the color on the cover?? :)
Side note - I literally can not think about the title of this book without Prince singing Purple Rain in my head. Maybe it's the color on the cover?? :)
November 16, 2017
Reviewed For Readers' Favorite by Grant Leishman
The takeover of the world, by the Chinese, has begun, but not with destructive weapons, as such, but by simple weight of numbers. All over the world, Chinese men have been mobilized to march into foreign countries, by their millions, taking over the financial resources of the countries and transferring that wealth to China. Protected from attack, by new nano-technology suits, it appears not even atomic weapons can stop the relentless surge of Chinese domination. In Diamond Rain, Michael Gallagher presents the world with just one hope of resisting this invasion. Deep within the Israeli Mossad is technology vastly superior to the carbon-based nano-suits used by the Chinese – a diamond based nano-suit. When Al-Jazeerah cameraman Thomas is surprisingly handed this technology as he films the Chinese invasion from high atop a ridge, he is set on a path of technology and subterfuge that will see him and the Mossad agents try to defeat the evil Chinese warlord intent on world domination.
Diamond Rain is a fast-paced thriller that will have you turning the pages rapidly to discover where it all leads next. Author Gallagher has projected technology slightly into the future, but given today’s advancements in quantum physics, it is easy to understand and believe the possibility of the action described. Although some of the concepts were a little advanced for my dim-witted brain to understand it didn’t detract at all from the excitement of the story. Michael Gallagher’s characters could be described as a little stereotypical, but nonetheless they were easy enough to identify and empathise with. The romance he wove into the story certainly helped to soften the edges of what is essentially an out and out spy thriller. There were enough twists and turns, although most were fairly predictable throughout the story. I note that this book is book two in a series. I was intrigued enough by the character of Kefira to want to read more of the story. A good, solid, thriller and one to recommend.
The takeover of the world, by the Chinese, has begun, but not with destructive weapons, as such, but by simple weight of numbers. All over the world, Chinese men have been mobilized to march into foreign countries, by their millions, taking over the financial resources of the countries and transferring that wealth to China. Protected from attack, by new nano-technology suits, it appears not even atomic weapons can stop the relentless surge of Chinese domination. In Diamond Rain, Michael Gallagher presents the world with just one hope of resisting this invasion. Deep within the Israeli Mossad is technology vastly superior to the carbon-based nano-suits used by the Chinese – a diamond based nano-suit. When Al-Jazeerah cameraman Thomas is surprisingly handed this technology as he films the Chinese invasion from high atop a ridge, he is set on a path of technology and subterfuge that will see him and the Mossad agents try to defeat the evil Chinese warlord intent on world domination.
Diamond Rain is a fast-paced thriller that will have you turning the pages rapidly to discover where it all leads next. Author Gallagher has projected technology slightly into the future, but given today’s advancements in quantum physics, it is easy to understand and believe the possibility of the action described. Although some of the concepts were a little advanced for my dim-witted brain to understand it didn’t detract at all from the excitement of the story. Michael Gallagher’s characters could be described as a little stereotypical, but nonetheless they were easy enough to identify and empathise with. The romance he wove into the story certainly helped to soften the edges of what is essentially an out and out spy thriller. There were enough twists and turns, although most were fairly predictable throughout the story. I note that this book is book two in a series. I was intrigued enough by the character of Kefira to want to read more of the story. A good, solid, thriller and one to recommend.
May 12, 2017
The beginning was quite confusing, though I most certainly enjoyed reading about Thomas O'Flaherty's backstory. If you like advanced technology with some technological jargon, with some action, then you'll enjoy this one. I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews