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Vaz Gettnor #3
Disc
“Disc” picks up right after Vaz and Tiona’s invention of an apparently reactionless drive in “Tiona.”
Tiona and her brother Dante want to license the rights to the new thrusters to big aircraft and car companies, using the money from the licenses to develop a private space industry. Vaz, their scientifically brilliant but socially inept father (who falls somewhere on the Asperger’s/Autism spectrum) has little interest in such a project, but is happy to have them run with it.
So, they set out to convince doubtful major corporations that thrusters will change the world as we know it. Getting these companies to join the technological revolution requires everything from the massaging of egos to slapping the uncomprehending in the face with the new capabilities.
At the same time, they are trying to develop their own space program in the face of some resistance from NASA.
Then, just when things seem to be going well, North Korea kidnaps Vaz and Tiona. They want to force them to develop the new technology in North Korea and allow it to forge ahead of its enemies scientifically. By providing them with all the equipment they ask for and then threatening one member of this father-daughter scientific team if the other doesn’t work, they assume they can force the Gettnors to redevelop the technology for the benefit of the People’s Democratic Republic.
That assumption is a serious mistake, Vaz is very good at turning equipment into weapons!
Tiona and her brother Dante want to license the rights to the new thrusters to big aircraft and car companies, using the money from the licenses to develop a private space industry. Vaz, their scientifically brilliant but socially inept father (who falls somewhere on the Asperger’s/Autism spectrum) has little interest in such a project, but is happy to have them run with it.
So, they set out to convince doubtful major corporations that thrusters will change the world as we know it. Getting these companies to join the technological revolution requires everything from the massaging of egos to slapping the uncomprehending in the face with the new capabilities.
At the same time, they are trying to develop their own space program in the face of some resistance from NASA.
Then, just when things seem to be going well, North Korea kidnaps Vaz and Tiona. They want to force them to develop the new technology in North Korea and allow it to forge ahead of its enemies scientifically. By providing them with all the equipment they ask for and then threatening one member of this father-daughter scientific team if the other doesn’t work, they assume they can force the Gettnors to redevelop the technology for the benefit of the People’s Democratic Republic.
That assumption is a serious mistake, Vaz is very good at turning equipment into weapons!
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2015
167 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Laurence E. Dahners
62 books673 followersI was born on the island of Cyprus where my dad was employed as a mining engineer. We moved to the Philippines (more mining) when I was three and then to Arizona when I was 9. I went to med school at the University of Arizona and did a residency in Orthopaedics at the University of Kansas. I taught Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill until I retired in 2017.
I've always loved science fiction and it's been great fun getting to write some. I also like music and have a little home recording studio. You can read more, listen to some music and look at some of my art, at http://laury.dahners.com/ if you like.
If you want to contact me, or be put on my email list to be notified when new books come out, just email me at ldahners@gmail.com
Laury Dahners
I've always loved science fiction and it's been great fun getting to write some. I also like music and have a little home recording studio. You can read more, listen to some music and look at some of my art, at http://laury.dahners.com/ if you like.
If you want to contact me, or be put on my email list to be notified when new books come out, just email me at ldahners@gmail.com
Laury Dahners
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 19, 2024
Really good!
June 17, 2018
As always, wonderful
If you are a fan of Laurence Dahners, as I am, you know what to expect from a book of his. Mr Dahners is superb at what he does. This book has a subthread about violence that has peeked out of other of his books. One nit, threats of violence are never endearing, even between lovers at the beginning of a relationship. But other than that, as usual, I loved this book.
If you are a fan of Laurence Dahners, as I am, you know what to expect from a book of his. Mr Dahners is superb at what he does. This book has a subthread about violence that has peeked out of other of his books. One nit, threats of violence are never endearing, even between lovers at the beginning of a relationship. But other than that, as usual, I loved this book.
November 26, 2021
Very weak story
The protagonists are supper geniuses but do very stupid things
Their invention will change the world and is a matter of national security yet the US government slowed them to keep it in their suburban home in their garage with no security even though they have already been kidnapped once before and there was another failed attempt to kidnap again. When the second failed kidnappers are assassinated they get the idea,and hire some mall type security guards.The U.S. Government apparently think that it's adequate security for the invention of the century .It is no sprite that they again get kidnapped by a hostile foreign government in an attempt to steal the invention but not to worry the foreign government agents are even bigger morons than the US government and the super geniuses ,
I have it one star because the author had a rudimentary command of the English language,and was able to string coherent sentences,but sadly not a coherent storyline.
The protagonists are supper geniuses but do very stupid things
Their invention will change the world and is a matter of national security yet the US government slowed them to keep it in their suburban home in their garage with no security even though they have already been kidnapped once before and there was another failed attempt to kidnap again. When the second failed kidnappers are assassinated they get the idea,and hire some mall type security guards.The U.S. Government apparently think that it's adequate security for the invention of the century .It is no sprite that they again get kidnapped by a hostile foreign government in an attempt to steal the invention but not to worry the foreign government agents are even bigger morons than the US government and the super geniuses ,
I have it one star because the author had a rudimentary command of the English language,and was able to string coherent sentences,but sadly not a coherent storyline.
February 24, 2024
A great reread.
I have read all of Dahners books and keep coming back for re-reads, they are mostly that good. I have found that some of his later books expand on the ideas in his earlier writings. I still did not mind because the idea fit in the later novels and made since. The best part is there is not a lot of trash to wade through. Spelling, grammar, and continually is mostly very well edited. I do still fall out of the book a few times but for a free read they are even worth buying to keep in your reread stash for days you just cannot take the frustration of a new read being interrupted. Also I mostly read at least a book a day so cost wise rereading is needed. I am always looking for authors worth that reread.
I have read all of Dahners books and keep coming back for re-reads, they are mostly that good. I have found that some of his later books expand on the ideas in his earlier writings. I still did not mind because the idea fit in the later novels and made since. The best part is there is not a lot of trash to wade through. Spelling, grammar, and continually is mostly very well edited. I do still fall out of the book a few times but for a free read they are even worth buying to keep in your reread stash for days you just cannot take the frustration of a new read being interrupted. Also I mostly read at least a book a day so cost wise rereading is needed. I am always looking for authors worth that reread.
July 17, 2024
In Disc, Vaz Gettnor and his brilliant daughter Tiona are well on their way to building a private space industry using a dark matter pump, which provides a seemingly reactionless drive. Then, they are kidnapped by North Koreans who have less peaceful uses for their technology. But their captors soon find that Gettnors should never be underestimated.
As usual, Laurence Dahners provides clever science speculation once you allow him his one unlikely premise. I especially like his explanation of why a saucer shape is appropriate for his spacecraft.
I have always found Dahners’ books entertaining, though formulaic. Fortunately, it is a formula I rather like.
As usual, Laurence Dahners provides clever science speculation once you allow him his one unlikely premise. I especially like his explanation of why a saucer shape is appropriate for his spacecraft.
I have always found Dahners’ books entertaining, though formulaic. Fortunately, it is a formula I rather like.
May 21, 2019
More good stuff.
As always, Dahner provides a well crafted and engaging storyline. I think it's probably because I read a lot that I've developed a negative bias towards multipletudinous use of the kidnapping trope. There's never competent enough security, precautions, or preventive measures. Hopefully, real life security professionals have little in common with these fictional representations. That said, Dahner does make good use of the trope to do some worthy "light shining".
An Amazon 'perks' review. 😻
As always, Dahner provides a well crafted and engaging storyline. I think it's probably because I read a lot that I've developed a negative bias towards multipletudinous use of the kidnapping trope. There's never competent enough security, precautions, or preventive measures. Hopefully, real life security professionals have little in common with these fictional representations. That said, Dahner does make good use of the trope to do some worthy "light shining".
An Amazon 'perks' review. 😻
January 28, 2021
Good story!
Like he said, anything can be a weapon. I think it's funny when stores have signs up that way " no guns or knives allowed". Wow, all the bad guys are going back to their car and put any weapons they have back in the car. Anything can be a weapon, the best one you have is in your head. Please think about it...If the dems did drunk driving like they want to do gun control, first thing they want to do is take all the sober drivers off the road.
Like he said, anything can be a weapon. I think it's funny when stores have signs up that way " no guns or knives allowed". Wow, all the bad guys are going back to their car and put any weapons they have back in the car. Anything can be a weapon, the best one you have is in your head. Please think about it...If the dems did drunk driving like they want to do gun control, first thing they want to do is take all the sober drivers off the road.
May 15, 2020
Book three
Mistakes: I thought I had found one, but after rereading the paragraph decided that it worked just fine.
Plot: More inventions and the start of a company. Last 20% is about the two main characters getting kidnapped and what they did in response.
Characters: I really enjoy the two mc’s, but Vaz is my favorite.
9/10 I just wanted more.
Mistakes: I thought I had found one, but after rereading the paragraph decided that it worked just fine.
Plot: More inventions and the start of a company. Last 20% is about the two main characters getting kidnapped and what they did in response.
Characters: I really enjoy the two mc’s, but Vaz is my favorite.
9/10 I just wanted more.
March 30, 2024
Awesome book in this series!!!!!
Congratulations to Lawrence Dahners for this amazing series. It’s hard to find such an interesting and exciting author who not only writes intelligently but also provides top rated plots, characters and excitement in the stories. I’m really looking forward to the next book.
Congratulations to Lawrence Dahners for this amazing series. It’s hard to find such an interesting and exciting author who not only writes intelligently but also provides top rated plots, characters and excitement in the stories. I’m really looking forward to the next book.
May 1, 2024
Once again, brilliant neuro-divergent geniuses save the world
Vaz Gettnor and his equally brilliant daughter invented world-changing technology that gets them kidnapped by a nefarious government. But they have secrets that keep them safe and… You’re going to want to find out more!
Vaz Gettnor and his equally brilliant daughter invented world-changing technology that gets them kidnapped by a nefarious government. But they have secrets that keep them safe and… You’re going to want to find out more!
January 19, 2026
Another winner!
I’ve just discovered the Dahners starting with the Elle series and now this series. I do enjoy the “hard” science behind the books, and the wishful thinking. Actually, I do believe we are on the cusp of a true breakthrough along these lines. Can’t say more until we have patents in place. 😏
I’ve just discovered the Dahners starting with the Elle series and now this series. I do enjoy the “hard” science behind the books, and the wishful thinking. Actually, I do believe we are on the cusp of a true breakthrough along these lines. Can’t say more until we have patents in place. 😏
December 6, 2017
Anoher gret book in series
Only 4 starts because 'hacking' line is too much to bear for me. Also, why General Cooper and President Miles didn't insist on providing special services protection to Gettnors after failed 'asians' attack?
Only 4 starts because 'hacking' line is too much to bear for me. Also, why General Cooper and President Miles didn't insist on providing special services protection to Gettnors after failed 'asians' attack?
September 13, 2019
WOW. Intense. Never Boring.
Just like before, Dahners' characters seem like real people with very human thoughts and feelings. How does he come up with those plot twists and cathartic resolutions?
Just like before, Dahners' characters seem like real people with very human thoughts and feelings. How does he come up with those plot twists and cathartic resolutions?
January 7, 2020
Great stories!
But, my wife is not happy. I told her it was just a lone novel. But no! It won't stop coming . One great story after another. I haven't told her yet that there is another one to read. It's great fun science fiction! Nice work Laurence!
But, my wife is not happy. I told her it was just a lone novel. But no! It won't stop coming . One great story after another. I haven't told her yet that there is another one to read. It's great fun science fiction! Nice work Laurence!
February 6, 2020
Vaz against North Korea
The unlikely adventures of a genius inventor lead to a classic conflict between individual and state. Another fun installment in the series about a quirky hero.
The unlikely adventures of a genius inventor lead to a classic conflict between individual and state. Another fun installment in the series about a quirky hero.
February 23, 2021
I'm behind on my reviews so, since I listened to books 1-3 consecutively, I am giving them all this same, short, review: Read the book description and, if it appeals at all, give these books a try. While not perfect books, they are so far above average they deserve 5 stars.
September 13, 2022
..Great Story..Golden Age of SF type Book.
Fun book. Much like with early Asimov it is heavy into the science. If you feel there can be too much Tech you might find this book slow. But for hard science fans this is a gem.
Fun book. Much like with early Asimov it is heavy into the science. If you feel there can be too much Tech you might find this book slow. But for hard science fans this is a gem.
May 24, 2024
North Korea takes on Vaz and his family
Big mistake! Lots of interesting insights that might occur with certain significant scientific breakthroughs. Dr Dahners continues to provide fascinating glimpses of some highly speculative but possible futures.
Big mistake! Lots of interesting insights that might occur with certain significant scientific breakthroughs. Dr Dahners continues to provide fascinating glimpses of some highly speculative but possible futures.
January 12, 2026
What if
So....could we explore space with Tiona and Nolan, and any other souls that would take the job? I'm thinking Anne McCaffrey and her Rowan series. Genetics and brilliance would be awesome combinations, don't you think 🤔?
So....could we explore space with Tiona and Nolan, and any other souls that would take the job? I'm thinking Anne McCaffrey and her Rowan series. Genetics and brilliance would be awesome combinations, don't you think 🤔?
May 11, 2019
3 to 3.5 stars not as good as the first two books but still okay/good. I will continue with the series as I do like these type of books.
May 10, 2020
Good reads
Fun story line hope more to come enjoyed it very much . Will recommend this series to other future isticscifi reader's
Fun story line hope more to come enjoyed it very much . Will recommend this series to other future isticscifi reader's
October 21, 2020
So fun
I just love this author. Science and genius mix for a great adventure. I don’t understand much of the science but I love the adventure.
I just love this author. Science and genius mix for a great adventure. I don’t understand much of the science but I love the adventure.
September 26, 2022
Outstanding !
I've found all that I read of your books very enjoyable and entertaining.I'm looking forward to your next book and others in the future.
I've found all that I read of your books very enjoyable and entertaining.I'm looking forward to your next book and others in the future.
May 12, 2024
These stories are so cute and funny I love them.
December 8, 2025
Good science Good fiction
A different cast than most. I found the way Laurence (Larry?) handled the autism brilliant.
After three, I am looking forward to Invaders
A different cast than most. I found the way Laurence (Larry?) handled the autism brilliant.
After three, I am looking forward to Invaders
December 21, 2016
Nice book for the fans, but i think Laurence is taking this isolation stuff to far
and in future limiting more and more his options.
It is even more manifested in the next book in the series.
All in all a enjoyable book.
and in future limiting more and more his options.
It is even more manifested in the next book in the series.
All in all a enjoyable book.
August 30, 2015
Quirky
This is feels very YA, but it deals with some complex ideas. I always enjoy books by Mr Dahner, as he takes a small number of technological breakthroughs and shows both how they would disrupt the world and how they could save it. There is, however, a certain naïveté and simplicity to some of the personal interactions. For instance, a family that has been kidnapped previously and is now quite wealthy waits until another kidnapping attempt to upgrade security. Then they hire cheap. That doesn't scan well for me.
I pre-order everything I can get from Mr Dahner. His writing engages my imagination in very enjoyable ways.
This is feels very YA, but it deals with some complex ideas. I always enjoy books by Mr Dahner, as he takes a small number of technological breakthroughs and shows both how they would disrupt the world and how they could save it. There is, however, a certain naïveté and simplicity to some of the personal interactions. For instance, a family that has been kidnapped previously and is now quite wealthy waits until another kidnapping attempt to upgrade security. Then they hire cheap. That doesn't scan well for me.
I pre-order everything I can get from Mr Dahner. His writing engages my imagination in very enjoyable ways.
October 14, 2015
This was another enjoyable read from Laurence Dahners. The story moves quickly and while I was pretty sure what would happen in the end, I didn't know HOW it would happen. That is what kept me reading.
On a slightly negative side, the characters in this book are vastly different from the ones in "Tiona". Vaz was much more animated and Tiona seemed like the clueless sidekick. In none of the stories was Tiona nearly as brilliant as Vaz, but she wasn't clueless. If you look at "Tiona" and all of the "Ell Donsai" series; strong independent women are something that Dahners seems to do well. I don't know why he stepped away from that... Inconsistent characters, but still a good book.
On a slightly negative side, the characters in this book are vastly different from the ones in "Tiona". Vaz was much more animated and Tiona seemed like the clueless sidekick. In none of the stories was Tiona nearly as brilliant as Vaz, but she wasn't clueless. If you look at "Tiona" and all of the "Ell Donsai" series; strong independent women are something that Dahners seems to do well. I don't know why he stepped away from that... Inconsistent characters, but still a good book.
August 28, 2015
Another great book from Laury!
I've been waiting, along with many others, for my presale copy to finally come. At the risk of sounding bad, IT WAS GREAT!.
Good use of "what can you do with this stuff?". And a good story to tell.
I like to read Dr Dahners' books because they are quick, easy concepts, good stories, and don't drag people through pages and pages setup.
His books aren't the large and complex worlds off Weber or Flint. But I like to read big works and I find great enjoyment reading and rereading the fun stuff.
Thank you Dr Dahners!
I've been waiting, along with many others, for my presale copy to finally come. At the risk of sounding bad, IT WAS GREAT!.
Good use of "what can you do with this stuff?". And a good story to tell.
I like to read Dr Dahners' books because they are quick, easy concepts, good stories, and don't drag people through pages and pages setup.
His books aren't the large and complex worlds off Weber or Flint. But I like to read big works and I find great enjoyment reading and rereading the fun stuff.
Thank you Dr Dahners!
August 30, 2015
A worthy successor to Vas and Tiona
If you liked Vas and Tiona you will love Discs! Laurence Dahners shows us just why we love Vas, his family and the world where he lives. What began in an America just slightly ahead of the here and now, has grown through the discoveries of Vas and his daughter into a world of seemingly infinite possibilities--if only the bad guys and small-minded would just get out of the way! How will our heroes prevail in the end? What wonderful new science and technology will be developed? Read and find out. You will not be disappointed!
If you liked Vas and Tiona you will love Discs! Laurence Dahners shows us just why we love Vas, his family and the world where he lives. What began in an America just slightly ahead of the here and now, has grown through the discoveries of Vas and his daughter into a world of seemingly infinite possibilities--if only the bad guys and small-minded would just get out of the way! How will our heroes prevail in the end? What wonderful new science and technology will be developed? Read and find out. You will not be disappointed!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews