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The Mind Sleuth #1
Half a Mind
A celebrated physician develops a device that can block neural activity in specific regions of the human brain, thus stimulating its natural ability to reorganize. But over time, the resulting adaptation becomes exaggerated, then all-consuming. Now, a serial killer, who exposed himself to the brain-altering effects of this device, is using it for his own purposes. When the St. Louis-based Ruger-Phillips company assigns one of their new hires, psychologist Sam Price, to a seemingly straightforward assessment of this technology, no one expects trouble. The reality, however, proves much different. Sam and his inexperienced team are plunged into a world where they will have to use everything they know to find the truth in a tangle of inconsistencies, constantly shifting circumstances, and death. As they come closer to understanding the device and what it has done, they start to wonder – is there any chance they will be able to convince anyone of a truth they can hardly believe themselves?
This edition is out of print.
This edition is out of print.
- GenresThriller
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2015
109 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Bruce M. Perrin
14 books127 followersBruce Perrin has been writing for more than 20 years, although you will find most of that work only in professional technical journals or conference proceedings. But, after completing a PhD in Industrial Psychology and a career in psychological R&D, he is now applying his background and fascination with technology and the human mind to writing novels. Besides writing, Bruce likes to tinker with home automation and is an avid hiker, logging nearly 2,500 miles each year in the first two years of Fitbit ownership. When he is not on the trails, he lives with his wife in St. Louis, MO. For a closer look at his writing life, book reviews, and progress on his upcoming works, please join him at www.brucemperrin.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
April 22, 2018
Strangely enough, this odd title is really apt, literally. The story starts with Sam, Sue and Nicole as a team to investigate whether a device being developed by a Dr Worthington can remove veteran's pain by redirecting brain linkages. Bruce Perrin has a PhD in psychology and has worked in research, so as expected, what follows is quite a bit about the working of brains, which I found fascinating. In the story Worthington has developed an electromagnetic cap for the head which can block off half of the brain activity. Unknown to everybody, there is also a character called "The Experimenter" who has something similar and is developing this in secret to presumably enhance his own mental ability, and has some subjects who are quite unwillingly helping him, and whom he kills when either they are no use, or during an experiment. The story is thus part SF, part thriller, and part mystery.
The author manages to very skillfully develop the story in streams so you see what the team is doing, and what the bad guy is doing at the same time. The action writing is very good, the pacing of the story is surprisingly good given the complexities of the brain messages, and with reservations, the structure is excellent. The character of Sam is very well drawn, except I am not sure he is fit for purpose. There is a potential romance between Sam and Nicole, except Sam can't seem to find the courage to ask her for a date, even after she has invited him to her apartment for a beer. Surely a psychologist can work out how to ask a girl out for a date? Sam warns everyone they could be in danger, but seemingly takes no precautions himself.
It is the mystery part that the story fails for me. The team interviews Worthington, who has brought Atwood along for some reason. Worthington subsequently rings Sam and tells him he feels in danger. That evening, Worthington is found dead in his chair, having died from asphyxiation. Now, the team needs answers, so who do they talk to? Not Atwood. Why not? That does not make sense. Nor does it make sense that the police put Worthiongton's death down to natural causes. Asphyxiation, sitting in a chair? With no asphyxiating agent in sight, surely this means murder because someone had to take the agent aaway later. So who is the "bad guy"? I can't go further without spoiling, but there is something even worse along the line, which a structural edit would fix. It is a pity because this is a really good story, and a few minor edits would make it excellent. (If this is done, look for a few "wrong words – two examples from memory, too for to, game for presumably gave.) A pity, but for me the mystery part loses a star.
The author manages to very skillfully develop the story in streams so you see what the team is doing, and what the bad guy is doing at the same time. The action writing is very good, the pacing of the story is surprisingly good given the complexities of the brain messages, and with reservations, the structure is excellent. The character of Sam is very well drawn, except I am not sure he is fit for purpose. There is a potential romance between Sam and Nicole, except Sam can't seem to find the courage to ask her for a date, even after she has invited him to her apartment for a beer. Surely a psychologist can work out how to ask a girl out for a date? Sam warns everyone they could be in danger, but seemingly takes no precautions himself.
It is the mystery part that the story fails for me. The team interviews Worthington, who has brought Atwood along for some reason. Worthington subsequently rings Sam and tells him he feels in danger. That evening, Worthington is found dead in his chair, having died from asphyxiation. Now, the team needs answers, so who do they talk to? Not Atwood. Why not? That does not make sense. Nor does it make sense that the police put Worthiongton's death down to natural causes. Asphyxiation, sitting in a chair? With no asphyxiating agent in sight, surely this means murder because someone had to take the agent aaway later. So who is the "bad guy"? I can't go further without spoiling, but there is something even worse along the line, which a structural edit would fix. It is a pity because this is a really good story, and a few minor edits would make it excellent. (If this is done, look for a few "wrong words – two examples from memory, too for to, game for presumably gave.) A pity, but for me the mystery part loses a star.
May 1, 2018
This is a crime story written with by an author with a high level of expertise who certainly seems to know their stuff. There is nothing worse than reading a book where you doubt the authors take on technology, or police procedurals, or legal practice and here the scientific background comes across as well researched, well written and plausible. It leaves you with a nice sense of "well I never knew that!" An entertaining read that I am happy to recommend.
June 25, 2018
Imagine, if you will, dividing the human brain in half and using only the right half or the left half. A person in such a state would be able to exhibit only left half (logic) or right half (more esoteric subjects) unless and until some cross-over functions were re-established between the two halves of the brain. Then imagine that the cross-over functions were blocked forcing only left-half or right-half control.
Of Half a Mind is about a machine that blocks one half of the brain. A machine possessed by a mad-man; one who has and will commit multiple murders. One addicted to the machine’s effects as one can become addicted to drugs. A research team headed by Dr. Sam Price must dig through the records of a dead inventor to find him, suspecting, but never really realizing the danger they are in.
This book is a psycho-thriller written by an author who is a psychological researcher. The good news is Of Half a Mind is, in every respect, an excellent story plot, with well developed, if a bit nerdy, characters. For imagination, plot and characters I would award this book four stars.
It’s drawback is the dialog. Of Half a Mind suffers from too much dialog unnecessary to telling the story and a great deal of neuro-scientific explanation most readers would blow-off in a heartbeat. I did. I skipped large sections of the dialog as being irrelevant to the plot. I would award three stars for the story-telling.
On the whole, however, for those willing to wade through the narrative to get to the meat of the plot, this is an entertaining and worthwhile read. The reader will get a good thrilling yarn and, perhaps, learn something about the human mind in the process. Lovers of psycho-thrillers, techno-thrillers and mysteries should love it. For me, the plot and concept slightly outweighed the dialog issues and I gave it 4-Stars.
Of Half a Mind is about a machine that blocks one half of the brain. A machine possessed by a mad-man; one who has and will commit multiple murders. One addicted to the machine’s effects as one can become addicted to drugs. A research team headed by Dr. Sam Price must dig through the records of a dead inventor to find him, suspecting, but never really realizing the danger they are in.
This book is a psycho-thriller written by an author who is a psychological researcher. The good news is Of Half a Mind is, in every respect, an excellent story plot, with well developed, if a bit nerdy, characters. For imagination, plot and characters I would award this book four stars.
It’s drawback is the dialog. Of Half a Mind suffers from too much dialog unnecessary to telling the story and a great deal of neuro-scientific explanation most readers would blow-off in a heartbeat. I did. I skipped large sections of the dialog as being irrelevant to the plot. I would award three stars for the story-telling.
On the whole, however, for those willing to wade through the narrative to get to the meat of the plot, this is an entertaining and worthwhile read. The reader will get a good thrilling yarn and, perhaps, learn something about the human mind in the process. Lovers of psycho-thrillers, techno-thrillers and mysteries should love it. For me, the plot and concept slightly outweighed the dialog issues and I gave it 4-Stars.
January 29, 2016
If someone had asked me a while back if I’d enjoy reading a thriller that leaned heavily on technical descriptions of scientific research into the mind as opposed to action, I’d have said, uh-uh, don’t think so. But I was asked to read this book and give it an honest review, so I took a chance. I’m glad I did.
Sam Price works for a company that assesses the merits and results of research projects as the “disinterested third party.” His company’s conclusions are often the deciding factor in whether or not the money keeps flowing to the researcher. Sam and his team, Sue and Nicole, are tasked with assessing the methods, tools, and results of a project that started as a way to find relief from phantom limb pain in amputees, but morphed into a study of how blocking brain waves in one hemisphere of the brain led to the other hemisphere compensating, thereby increasing a person’s ability to learn. It’s a routine part of Sam’s job, but Dr. Worthington, the scientist responsible for the brain wave study, is resistant to providing them with the information they need to assess his study and they have no way of contacting the study volunteer, a person known only as A.T.
When Worthington, the researcher, becomes violent and throws them out of his office, they become worried about his mental state and their own safety. They begin to wonder if he’s used his device on himself, and they begin to wonder what using such a device could do to the human brain.
I’m not going to tell more of the story because I don’t want to spoil it for the reader, but I will say I thoroughly enjoyed a book that—shudder—has a basis in reality. Recently I’ve seen stories about brain research that allows paralyzed people to move limbs through devices that transmit the person’s brain waves to a device holding the limb. Other studies that have made the news involve a person wearing electrodes and sending the thought to move a hand to another person many miles away who was wearing the same device. Bruce Perrin has the academic background and professional experience to take this early research and turn it into a fascinating thriller, which he has done. Even better, he has the ability to explain the technical aspects to a lay reader and keep the story interesting at the same time.
I really liked the way the story ended—lots of action there!—and I especially liked the way he completed the story, yet paved the way for the next in the series. I’ll be watching for it.
Sam Price works for a company that assesses the merits and results of research projects as the “disinterested third party.” His company’s conclusions are often the deciding factor in whether or not the money keeps flowing to the researcher. Sam and his team, Sue and Nicole, are tasked with assessing the methods, tools, and results of a project that started as a way to find relief from phantom limb pain in amputees, but morphed into a study of how blocking brain waves in one hemisphere of the brain led to the other hemisphere compensating, thereby increasing a person’s ability to learn. It’s a routine part of Sam’s job, but Dr. Worthington, the scientist responsible for the brain wave study, is resistant to providing them with the information they need to assess his study and they have no way of contacting the study volunteer, a person known only as A.T.
When Worthington, the researcher, becomes violent and throws them out of his office, they become worried about his mental state and their own safety. They begin to wonder if he’s used his device on himself, and they begin to wonder what using such a device could do to the human brain.
I’m not going to tell more of the story because I don’t want to spoil it for the reader, but I will say I thoroughly enjoyed a book that—shudder—has a basis in reality. Recently I’ve seen stories about brain research that allows paralyzed people to move limbs through devices that transmit the person’s brain waves to a device holding the limb. Other studies that have made the news involve a person wearing electrodes and sending the thought to move a hand to another person many miles away who was wearing the same device. Bruce Perrin has the academic background and professional experience to take this early research and turn it into a fascinating thriller, which he has done. Even better, he has the ability to explain the technical aspects to a lay reader and keep the story interesting at the same time.
I really liked the way the story ended—lots of action there!—and I especially liked the way he completed the story, yet paved the way for the next in the series. I’ll be watching for it.
April 3, 2018
This is a good crime story with a fascinating subject matter and intelligent protagonists. A scientist is experimenting on the brain of people snatched off the street. Three scientists embark on a project to establish the credibility of what has supposedly been discovered but find themselves tracking down a killer. I would suspect the author has a background in this area of science or has done a great deal of research because the book is full of scientific explanations which all seemed plausible to me, although my knowledge of the subject matter is very limited. I think not being an expert in the field actually increased my enjoyment because I was intrigued by what I was reading. Despite the scientific bias of the story this book very much remains a crime story. I really enjoyed the three main characters and their relationships. The plot has some surprises and the mystery kept me turning the pages wanting to see how the story would end. If you have any interest in science or the brain this is a perfect book for you but if you are just a general fan of crime stories this is still a good and slightly unusual read.
March 29, 2018
Of Half a Mind (The Mind Sleuth Series Book 1)
This story was a work of fiction. The book is well written and held my interest. The integration of scientific knowledge into this fiction work was done in such a simplified manner it made it easy to understand. The emotions felt by the characters draws you into the story. I rate this work five stars.
This story was a work of fiction. The book is well written and held my interest. The integration of scientific knowledge into this fiction work was done in such a simplified manner it made it easy to understand. The emotions felt by the characters draws you into the story. I rate this work five stars.
July 4, 2016
(Please forgive me author) - I'd recommend this mystery/thriller to readers who are a bit nerdy/geeky.
Sam is asked to form a team to investigate a request for funding for a brain "blocker." Originally designed to ease phantom limb pain the scientist is now claiming his invention can improve the abilities of certain brain functions such as memory recall. By his own admission Sam is shy and nerdy and very awkward around a female member of the team who he fancies. Shocked by the scientist's behaviour and scant research notes the team is initially unimpressed. When the scientist dies suddenly and more of his notes are discovered the team become more interested in the project and the potential uses of the blocker. Their investigations reveal continued use of the blocker could be very dangerous and concerns are raised about participants in the scientist's earlier experiments.
I was fascinated by the ideas behind the blocker and the idea that to stimulate and improve one area of the brain meant reducing activity in other areas of the brain. In this story it was areas such as self-reflection, empathy, morals and the appreciation of beauty that were being repressed. But as an ordinary non-scientific reader there was for me too much emphasis on the science and the scientific procedures.
As scientists I didn't find any of the characters really leapt of the page. But I will admit the pedantic and anxious Sam was starting to grow on me by the end of the book.
I couldn't fault the writing style or the plot line but there was too much scientific detail for me. I'm sure there is a segment of readers out there who'd love that aspect.
Overall an enjoyable read but personally I would have preferred more action and less science.
Sam is asked to form a team to investigate a request for funding for a brain "blocker." Originally designed to ease phantom limb pain the scientist is now claiming his invention can improve the abilities of certain brain functions such as memory recall. By his own admission Sam is shy and nerdy and very awkward around a female member of the team who he fancies. Shocked by the scientist's behaviour and scant research notes the team is initially unimpressed. When the scientist dies suddenly and more of his notes are discovered the team become more interested in the project and the potential uses of the blocker. Their investigations reveal continued use of the blocker could be very dangerous and concerns are raised about participants in the scientist's earlier experiments.
I was fascinated by the ideas behind the blocker and the idea that to stimulate and improve one area of the brain meant reducing activity in other areas of the brain. In this story it was areas such as self-reflection, empathy, morals and the appreciation of beauty that were being repressed. But as an ordinary non-scientific reader there was for me too much emphasis on the science and the scientific procedures.
As scientists I didn't find any of the characters really leapt of the page. But I will admit the pedantic and anxious Sam was starting to grow on me by the end of the book.
I couldn't fault the writing style or the plot line but there was too much scientific detail for me. I'm sure there is a segment of readers out there who'd love that aspect.
Overall an enjoyable read but personally I would have preferred more action and less science.
October 12, 2015
This book is a crime mystery, but without the normal lineup of detectives or forensic scientists chasing the killer. In this case, it is a psychologist and a biomedical engineer, who unwittingly get involved. I liked the characters. Sam is newly graduated and on his first job, so not every decision he makes is correct, but he persists. He also has a sense of humor that I enjoyed. Nicole is the engineer and Sam’s romantic interest. In my opinion, she did more to “solve” the case than Sam. Although the research mentioned in the book is over my head, it was interesting and I felt I learned something from it. I googled some of the specific places or people mentioned, and a lot of the technology exists, making me wonder how long it will be until we have something like the device described in the book. Although slow in places, it was an engaging read overall.
August 15, 2018
Great Book
This book is very well written. It’s a page turner. I give Bruce 5 Stars for the tremendous effort put forth with the progressing plot that is amazing. I was not familiar with Bruce’s books until I read this book. From this day forward he has a new fan. Great job Bruce.
Some parts were so well written I had to go back and re-read. The horrors in this triller is well worth anyone who loves this type of book. Look forward to reading more of Bruce Perrin’s books. 👍🏼
This book is very well written. It’s a page turner. I give Bruce 5 Stars for the tremendous effort put forth with the progressing plot that is amazing. I was not familiar with Bruce’s books until I read this book. From this day forward he has a new fan. Great job Bruce.
Some parts were so well written I had to go back and re-read. The horrors in this triller is well worth anyone who loves this type of book. Look forward to reading more of Bruce Perrin’s books. 👍🏼
May 16, 2016
Good idea behind the story in this book. I'm glad I decided to read this book. The characters developed in ways that blew my mind. Overwhelming with self conflicting ideas, the main character drew me further into the story. This book would be suitable for those who love dark and twisting story with scientific background.
July 6, 2018
Three things about Bruce Perrin jump out at the reader right from the outset. One, he can write, and he can write well. Two, he has a vast knowledge of the science and psychology that form the background of his plots. And three, he can tell a story. For these reasons few will ever be disappointed when they take up a Bruce Perrin novel. This one isn’t my first Perrin book, so I knew what to expect and very much enjoyed the story. The characters, particularly Sam, Nicole and Sue, are, as always, well developed, the structure of the plot is sound, and the tiny formatting errors that can turn up anywhere are few and far between in this book.
In Of Half A Mind, the science revolves around a radical new invention called a ‘brain blocker’. It can exert influence upon either, or both, of the two hemispheres of the brain, affecting both thought and action, as well as aspects of affectivity. When the story opens, two sets of investigations are going on in relation to the blocker – one sponsored by the authorities; the other, dangerous and illegal, undertaken by a ruthless and amoral figure known only as The Experimenter. The Experimenter, and Dr. Worthington who was the originator of the device, are seeking to persuade the brain to rewire itself and respond differently to various kinds of stimuli. Problem is, when the Experimenter’s calculations go wrong, people die. Not a problem for him, however. He simply takes a van on to the streets to select more guinea pigs from among the homeless population. Worthington, on the other hand, because of lack of funds, has to experiment on himself.
Thus there is a great story struggling to emerge here, although I believe that in the early part of the book, the author’s enthusiasm for his science causes him to delve too deeply into the technical nature of the blocker and its psychological ramifications. While this can be fascinating in its own right, the depth and quantity of the theoretical detail can be somewhat taxing for the ordinary reader, and tends to have a somewhat adverse impact on story and pace.
With a theme like this, there is no doubt that the book is essentially science-fiction, but there is an added element of mystery-thriller here, when a key character is murdered and Sam ultimately has to combine the roles of scientific researcher and detective. This part of the story is well done and it is about here that the book really takes off. Sam, Sue and Nicole surmise they might be in danger, but they seriously underestimate exactly how much danger they are in. This lends the story an added frisson of tension and from then on, particularly during the build-up of action towards the end, the reader is fully engaged and can easily ignore the sluggish pace that marred the early pages.
By the time the climax arrives, the reader is whizzing through the pages, from the unexpected revelation of the Experimenter’s name to the confrontation at the airport and its shocking outcome. Definitely a book that will appeal strongly to sci-fi readers, with that added dimension that will bring in mystery buffs as well. An excellent read.
In Of Half A Mind, the science revolves around a radical new invention called a ‘brain blocker’. It can exert influence upon either, or both, of the two hemispheres of the brain, affecting both thought and action, as well as aspects of affectivity. When the story opens, two sets of investigations are going on in relation to the blocker – one sponsored by the authorities; the other, dangerous and illegal, undertaken by a ruthless and amoral figure known only as The Experimenter. The Experimenter, and Dr. Worthington who was the originator of the device, are seeking to persuade the brain to rewire itself and respond differently to various kinds of stimuli. Problem is, when the Experimenter’s calculations go wrong, people die. Not a problem for him, however. He simply takes a van on to the streets to select more guinea pigs from among the homeless population. Worthington, on the other hand, because of lack of funds, has to experiment on himself.
Thus there is a great story struggling to emerge here, although I believe that in the early part of the book, the author’s enthusiasm for his science causes him to delve too deeply into the technical nature of the blocker and its psychological ramifications. While this can be fascinating in its own right, the depth and quantity of the theoretical detail can be somewhat taxing for the ordinary reader, and tends to have a somewhat adverse impact on story and pace.
With a theme like this, there is no doubt that the book is essentially science-fiction, but there is an added element of mystery-thriller here, when a key character is murdered and Sam ultimately has to combine the roles of scientific researcher and detective. This part of the story is well done and it is about here that the book really takes off. Sam, Sue and Nicole surmise they might be in danger, but they seriously underestimate exactly how much danger they are in. This lends the story an added frisson of tension and from then on, particularly during the build-up of action towards the end, the reader is fully engaged and can easily ignore the sluggish pace that marred the early pages.
By the time the climax arrives, the reader is whizzing through the pages, from the unexpected revelation of the Experimenter’s name to the confrontation at the airport and its shocking outcome. Definitely a book that will appeal strongly to sci-fi readers, with that added dimension that will bring in mystery buffs as well. An excellent read.
June 1, 2018
A new kind of psychological mystery
“Not that this will ever be investigated as a murder, but you can’t be too careful. Now, if you’ll excuse me, your demise will take a while and I have much to do.”
Sam Price, known as ‘Doc’ to his friends, is assigned a team to investigate whether or not a project should be given ongoing funding or not. The project seems to have increased the capacity of the brain to retain knowledge by in some way using the different hemispheres of the brain separately. However, when people start dying, the investigation takes on a rather different kind of climate and Doc and his team find themselves caught up with an obsessive serial killer.
This is one of those books that you will either love for the insights it offers into brain function and psychology, or struggle with for the degree of text-book like lecturing and characters telling each other loads of technical stuff. It is a mystery story with near-future sci-fi as it’s focus and the ‘detectives’ are scientists, grappling as much with what the device might or might not achieve as with who is killing and why.
“Good for you, Nicole,” Sue said, nudging her with an elbow and winking. “That way, you’ll get to see Doc at his nerdy best.”
What I liked most about it were the non-technical parts where the story could flow and be itself and the characters could interact without having to feel like lecturers. The pace at such times was excellent, as the characters all interesting and well conveyed and their relationships - especially the ‘she loves me she loves me not’ tension between Doc and Nicole - add to the texture of the story. The device in question is a marvellous piece of hard sci-fi tech and its effects seem very credible.
The parallel and extremely horrific and creepy story of the Experimenter who is their ultimate antagonist, adds a lot to the growing sense of tension. I enjoyed how the reader is led to make a lot of assumptions around the identity of the experimenter as the story progresses and the truth is eventually revealed.
"The effect of the process will be an increase in the cortical capacity that’s applied to encoding, storing, and retrieving the stimuli, resulting in a measured increase in memory span performance.”
The big problem for me in this book was the continuous switch from first to third person - something that always grates my nerves in a book. To me, there was no real reason for it as the whole book could have been better written in third person throughout. But I acknowledge that is something others might not mind at all.
I struggled to believe the idea that the police were not much more involved in the investigation and their apparent dismissal of what was clearly murder as being something else, did not ring at all true. I also really disliked the ending which seemed an unnecessary and sudden bolt-on extension to what is an excellent climax.
This is a book that will appeal to those who like their sci-fi detailed and technical and their mysteries complex.
“Not that this will ever be investigated as a murder, but you can’t be too careful. Now, if you’ll excuse me, your demise will take a while and I have much to do.”
Sam Price, known as ‘Doc’ to his friends, is assigned a team to investigate whether or not a project should be given ongoing funding or not. The project seems to have increased the capacity of the brain to retain knowledge by in some way using the different hemispheres of the brain separately. However, when people start dying, the investigation takes on a rather different kind of climate and Doc and his team find themselves caught up with an obsessive serial killer.
This is one of those books that you will either love for the insights it offers into brain function and psychology, or struggle with for the degree of text-book like lecturing and characters telling each other loads of technical stuff. It is a mystery story with near-future sci-fi as it’s focus and the ‘detectives’ are scientists, grappling as much with what the device might or might not achieve as with who is killing and why.
“Good for you, Nicole,” Sue said, nudging her with an elbow and winking. “That way, you’ll get to see Doc at his nerdy best.”
What I liked most about it were the non-technical parts where the story could flow and be itself and the characters could interact without having to feel like lecturers. The pace at such times was excellent, as the characters all interesting and well conveyed and their relationships - especially the ‘she loves me she loves me not’ tension between Doc and Nicole - add to the texture of the story. The device in question is a marvellous piece of hard sci-fi tech and its effects seem very credible.
The parallel and extremely horrific and creepy story of the Experimenter who is their ultimate antagonist, adds a lot to the growing sense of tension. I enjoyed how the reader is led to make a lot of assumptions around the identity of the experimenter as the story progresses and the truth is eventually revealed.
"The effect of the process will be an increase in the cortical capacity that’s applied to encoding, storing, and retrieving the stimuli, resulting in a measured increase in memory span performance.”
The big problem for me in this book was the continuous switch from first to third person - something that always grates my nerves in a book. To me, there was no real reason for it as the whole book could have been better written in third person throughout. But I acknowledge that is something others might not mind at all.
I struggled to believe the idea that the police were not much more involved in the investigation and their apparent dismissal of what was clearly murder as being something else, did not ring at all true. I also really disliked the ending which seemed an unnecessary and sudden bolt-on extension to what is an excellent climax.
This is a book that will appeal to those who like their sci-fi detailed and technical and their mysteries complex.
May 9, 2018
I read the first version of this book (titled Half a Mind) and thoroughly enjoyed it in spite of the fact that I’m not usually a fan of techno-thrillers. It was loaded with technical descriptions of scientific research into the mind, most of which was in the first two-thirds of the book and was followed by some amazing action scenes nearer the end. Like I said, I usually wouldn’t like that type of book, but I think what drew me in was that the science it was based on had a basis in reality. And when I thought about that, it gave me the creeps.
So when I saw that Bruce Perrin had written a new version of this book, I had to give it a try. I’m glad I did. He did a fantastic job of blending the thrills with the science all through the book—not just at the end—and at no point does it bog down in too much scientific detail. He often leads the reader down a suspense-filled path that makes you sure you know what’s about to happen—and then something else does.
The basic story is the same in that the protagonist, Sam Price, works for a company that assesses research projects as the “disinterested third party.” He and his team, Sue and Nicole, are assigned to a project that started as a way to find relief from phantom limb pain in amputees but morphed into a study of how blocking brain waves in one hemisphere of the brain led to the other hemisphere compensating, which allegedly increased a person’s ability to learn.
When the scientist responsible for the study becomes violent and throws them out of his office, they become worried about their safety. The admittedly non-conclusive evidence leads them to believe he’s used the device on himself—and not to his benefit.
As I said, the basic story is the same as the earlier version, but some new characters have added more layers to the story, increasing the suspense and the chills. And there are quite a few chuckles, thanks to the character of Sue. The author has done a really good job of improving on what was already a good story, and I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a thriller based on scientific fact.
So when I saw that Bruce Perrin had written a new version of this book, I had to give it a try. I’m glad I did. He did a fantastic job of blending the thrills with the science all through the book—not just at the end—and at no point does it bog down in too much scientific detail. He often leads the reader down a suspense-filled path that makes you sure you know what’s about to happen—and then something else does.
The basic story is the same in that the protagonist, Sam Price, works for a company that assesses research projects as the “disinterested third party.” He and his team, Sue and Nicole, are assigned to a project that started as a way to find relief from phantom limb pain in amputees but morphed into a study of how blocking brain waves in one hemisphere of the brain led to the other hemisphere compensating, which allegedly increased a person’s ability to learn.
When the scientist responsible for the study becomes violent and throws them out of his office, they become worried about their safety. The admittedly non-conclusive evidence leads them to believe he’s used the device on himself—and not to his benefit.
As I said, the basic story is the same as the earlier version, but some new characters have added more layers to the story, increasing the suspense and the chills. And there are quite a few chuckles, thanks to the character of Sue. The author has done a really good job of improving on what was already a good story, and I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a thriller based on scientific fact.
May 3, 2018
Review: OF HALF A MIND by Bruce Perrin
(The Mind Sleuth #1)
OF HALF A MIND is an intellectually challenging, mind-expanding, speculative novel, first in a series. Enjoyable protagonist and secondary characters smooth the process of a plot focusing on biomedicine and neuropsychology. I really liked Dr. Sam Price, Ph.D. ("Doc") and I was so glad there are good guys (Sam and others), because the Villain is most definitely not a good guy. Now let me expand on what I enjoyed the most in this intriguing tale: The Villain. I love intellectual characters, individuals who are highly intelligent. Such is The Villain, who might actually be a genius. But Genius can come at a hefty price, and for The Villain, the price was the soul. A true sociopath, in the vein of Josef Mengele. Brilliance!! No empathy; humans are tools, or more accurately, lab rats--subjects of experimentation. (Hence, like Mengele.)
(The Mind Sleuth #1)
OF HALF A MIND is an intellectually challenging, mind-expanding, speculative novel, first in a series. Enjoyable protagonist and secondary characters smooth the process of a plot focusing on biomedicine and neuropsychology. I really liked Dr. Sam Price, Ph.D. ("Doc") and I was so glad there are good guys (Sam and others), because the Villain is most definitely not a good guy. Now let me expand on what I enjoyed the most in this intriguing tale: The Villain. I love intellectual characters, individuals who are highly intelligent. Such is The Villain, who might actually be a genius. But Genius can come at a hefty price, and for The Villain, the price was the soul. A true sociopath, in the vein of Josef Mengele. Brilliance!! No empathy; humans are tools, or more accurately, lab rats--subjects of experimentation. (Hence, like Mengele.)
March 25, 2018
Top-notch technothriller.
Skilfully written so that a reader unfamiliar with neuroscience will have no difficulty in comprehending the ideas. Perrin also adeptly avoids the "info dump" trap as information is woven seamlessly into the dialogue and action as events unfold.
Intriguing, compelling story that gave me goosebumps! The characters are likeable, the science is intriguing and the twists unpredictable.
Hmm, I've already read and thoroughly enjoyed the next book in this series, Mind in the Clouds, so I'll now patiently (not so much) await the next chapter in "Doc" Price's rather challenging career path.
Skilfully written so that a reader unfamiliar with neuroscience will have no difficulty in comprehending the ideas. Perrin also adeptly avoids the "info dump" trap as information is woven seamlessly into the dialogue and action as events unfold.
Intriguing, compelling story that gave me goosebumps! The characters are likeable, the science is intriguing and the twists unpredictable.
Hmm, I've already read and thoroughly enjoyed the next book in this series, Mind in the Clouds, so I'll now patiently (not so much) await the next chapter in "Doc" Price's rather challenging career path.
February 21, 2016
“Other than perhaps astrophysics, what has more uncharted territory than the human brain?” Half a Mind opens with this intriguing question, and with an unnerving glimpse of an “Experimenter” practicing lethal tests on a helpless victim, quickly followed by a perfectly normal day in the life of a scientist, I prepared myself to be taken on a journey through an unfamiliar land. I wasn’t wrong.
Obviously written by an author who is intimately familiar with his complex subject matter, Half a Mind is a text book on neuroscience overlaid with a Criminal Minds entertainment factor. The author’s style, including precise sections described by date and time to the very minute, lends a tenseness to the narrative. In places, where the prose reads more peer-review than fiction, the pacing is uneven, but one makes allowances for the scientific scenic detours (bless them, they do have to validate everything) in order to reach the good bits. And “the Experimenter” threads together active narrative with enough menace that you can’t help but want to keep reading. I enjoyed these sections the most in the book, and of all the characters, I felt that his was the most interesting.
The clinical narration was fascinating in places – I especially found the missing limb treatment interesting – but there were times when the author became so engrossed in the science that we lost track of the fiction. For me, this resulted in the main characters being rather two dimensional. They seemed to be having a lot of very consistent conversations, and I would have liked more action, messy interruptions, shouting matches…in other words, less science, more emotion. However, the author did an admirable job of blending science and fiction to leave us wondering if somewhere in the Nevada desert there exists a…but no, I’m just being fanciful.
In all, an interesting novel, an intriguing plot, and if science and crime are genres you enjoy, there is a great deal to like about this book. It is not one that leaves you for a while, and that is the mark of a good story. I reviewed this book as part of an exchange for a fair review.
Obviously written by an author who is intimately familiar with his complex subject matter, Half a Mind is a text book on neuroscience overlaid with a Criminal Minds entertainment factor. The author’s style, including precise sections described by date and time to the very minute, lends a tenseness to the narrative. In places, where the prose reads more peer-review than fiction, the pacing is uneven, but one makes allowances for the scientific scenic detours (bless them, they do have to validate everything) in order to reach the good bits. And “the Experimenter” threads together active narrative with enough menace that you can’t help but want to keep reading. I enjoyed these sections the most in the book, and of all the characters, I felt that his was the most interesting.
The clinical narration was fascinating in places – I especially found the missing limb treatment interesting – but there were times when the author became so engrossed in the science that we lost track of the fiction. For me, this resulted in the main characters being rather two dimensional. They seemed to be having a lot of very consistent conversations, and I would have liked more action, messy interruptions, shouting matches…in other words, less science, more emotion. However, the author did an admirable job of blending science and fiction to leave us wondering if somewhere in the Nevada desert there exists a…but no, I’m just being fanciful.
In all, an interesting novel, an intriguing plot, and if science and crime are genres you enjoy, there is a great deal to like about this book. It is not one that leaves you for a while, and that is the mark of a good story. I reviewed this book as part of an exchange for a fair review.
December 17, 2015
8/3, the Experimenter learned how to use electricity on Subject # 1 & Subject # 2 to subject pain.
Dr. Sam Price (PhD, aka Doc, Ruger-Phillips Corporation, training tech/systems), Nicole Veles (24, engineer, MS, Biomedical Engineering), & Sue Jordan (29, Ruger-Phillips Corporation research assistant, MS, Experimental Personality, Social Psychology) are meeting with Dr. Ned Worthington (U of W, PhD., MD., Worthington Huston Technologies)on a regular scheduled basis.
This was Dr. Ned Worthington’s baby: the Memory Span Enhancement project (MSE, Brain Hemisphere Blocker) that was funded by the VA.
Why were the 3: Sam, Nicole & Sue now meeting with Dr. Jon Huston (WHT partner)?
Who is A.T.?
Does Elizabeth Scott-Worthington (ex-wife) no anything?
Who is the Experimenter?
This was me in my MS programs: MSW, Rehab, & Drug/alcohol counseling. ”I read professional journals & texts…” Psychology was 1 of my BS, Brain stuff, I really got into that in my other 2 MS.
Kansas allows concealed weapons now with no training.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written mysterious technological-thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great technology mystery movie, or mini TV series. 1 book I didn’t want to put down. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Dr. Sam Price (PhD, aka Doc, Ruger-Phillips Corporation, training tech/systems), Nicole Veles (24, engineer, MS, Biomedical Engineering), & Sue Jordan (29, Ruger-Phillips Corporation research assistant, MS, Experimental Personality, Social Psychology) are meeting with Dr. Ned Worthington (U of W, PhD., MD., Worthington Huston Technologies)on a regular scheduled basis.
This was Dr. Ned Worthington’s baby: the Memory Span Enhancement project (MSE, Brain Hemisphere Blocker) that was funded by the VA.
Why were the 3: Sam, Nicole & Sue now meeting with Dr. Jon Huston (WHT partner)?
Who is A.T.?
Does Elizabeth Scott-Worthington (ex-wife) no anything?
Who is the Experimenter?
This was me in my MS programs: MSW, Rehab, & Drug/alcohol counseling. ”I read professional journals & texts…” Psychology was 1 of my BS, Brain stuff, I really got into that in my other 2 MS.
Kansas allows concealed weapons now with no training.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written mysterious technological-thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great technology mystery movie, or mini TV series. 1 book I didn’t want to put down. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
November 19, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Half a Mind is quite an achievement. I just love having an introduction to a new subject by way of a story and this the author has achieved. He manages to impart everything we need to know about neuropsychiatry and psychology to be able to follow the plot, while ensuring it is easy enough to understand and kept in digestible chunks. I'm quite sure this balance of teaching and brevity would have been painstaking to write and for him to have done so in his debut novel is remarkable.
After thoroughly enjoying and devouring the start of this book, I found the plot gripping until somewhere just after half way, at which point the reading experience was a bit of a slog.
I found it difficult to warm to the supporting characters and for some of them I didn't develop an impression of what they looked like, nor did I get much of a feel for their personalities. The latter of these failures to develop a connection may be in part due to everyone in the book having much the same voice. The characters don't use contractions and often produce lengthy, while at the same time clear and well-structured responses without pause or hesitation. I understand these characters are very intelligent and that such people can indeed speak without the interjection of the odd 'umm' or 'ah', but having three or more doing so while discussing subjects of great complexity when in a meeting together seems a little far-fetched and contributes to the lack of individuality in their speech.
That all said, the plot is nothing short of brilliant, with a satisfying and intriguing ending. In my opinion this plot would make for a superb movie and it is my sincere hope an author with this much potential gets such an opportunity.
Half a Mind is quite an achievement. I just love having an introduction to a new subject by way of a story and this the author has achieved. He manages to impart everything we need to know about neuropsychiatry and psychology to be able to follow the plot, while ensuring it is easy enough to understand and kept in digestible chunks. I'm quite sure this balance of teaching and brevity would have been painstaking to write and for him to have done so in his debut novel is remarkable.
After thoroughly enjoying and devouring the start of this book, I found the plot gripping until somewhere just after half way, at which point the reading experience was a bit of a slog.
I found it difficult to warm to the supporting characters and for some of them I didn't develop an impression of what they looked like, nor did I get much of a feel for their personalities. The latter of these failures to develop a connection may be in part due to everyone in the book having much the same voice. The characters don't use contractions and often produce lengthy, while at the same time clear and well-structured responses without pause or hesitation. I understand these characters are very intelligent and that such people can indeed speak without the interjection of the odd 'umm' or 'ah', but having three or more doing so while discussing subjects of great complexity when in a meeting together seems a little far-fetched and contributes to the lack of individuality in their speech.
That all said, the plot is nothing short of brilliant, with a satisfying and intriguing ending. In my opinion this plot would make for a superb movie and it is my sincere hope an author with this much potential gets such an opportunity.
September 2, 2016
“Half a Mind” is a techno-thriller that brings a few different dishes to the dinner table. The author, Mr. Bruce Perrin provides us with a story that has a strong technical aspect to it with interesting science and details. In my opinion, he serves up this tech info in a nonthreatening manner that just about anyone can understand and enjoy. Perrin also weaves a tale of mystery that drew me in and kept me interested from e-cover to e-cover. Next, add in a few nice dollops of action and then sprinkle in a little bit of romance. Mix it all together and you have quite an enjoyable read.
Three co-workers with varying technical knowledge and educational backgrounds are given a job to investigate an experimental device to prove its validity. If the device works successfully, funding would be supplied to its developer to continue on with the research. The co-workers run into interesting characters as well as situations that leave you anxious to see what happens next. The main character walks the line between being a scientist and being a detective, which I really liked as well. Murder, experiments on human subjects and an explosion are peppered throughout the story and keep you salivating for more. Because Half a Mind is a mystery, I am going to be intentionally vague and not divulge any info that could act as a spoiler. I would have liked a bit more graphic detail in the action scenes. But doing so might have changed the rating from PG to R which is something I am guessing the author didn’t want to do. If you like to tickle your mind with brain-teasers, you’ll definitely like this book.
Three co-workers with varying technical knowledge and educational backgrounds are given a job to investigate an experimental device to prove its validity. If the device works successfully, funding would be supplied to its developer to continue on with the research. The co-workers run into interesting characters as well as situations that leave you anxious to see what happens next. The main character walks the line between being a scientist and being a detective, which I really liked as well. Murder, experiments on human subjects and an explosion are peppered throughout the story and keep you salivating for more. Because Half a Mind is a mystery, I am going to be intentionally vague and not divulge any info that could act as a spoiler. I would have liked a bit more graphic detail in the action scenes. But doing so might have changed the rating from PG to R which is something I am guessing the author didn’t want to do. If you like to tickle your mind with brain-teasers, you’ll definitely like this book.
January 14, 2016
Half a Mind is the story of the Blocker, a device that can suppress brain function in targeted areas, such as one of the hemispheres (left or right). The idea a researcher, Worthington, had was that of plasticity: other areas of the brain would take over from the suppressed parts. The hope is that these new areas would maintain their new ability even without the suppression, meaning more prowess at that ability, such as remembering strings of numbers. Is that all the Blocker is good for? Or does it have the potential for much more --- something that could be very dangerous in the wrong hands?
I liked Half a Mind but it is a difficult read. Everything is there---likeable characters, a love story sub plot, even some action toward the end. But to get there, one has to wade through a lot of jargon and research mumbo-jumbo which, to my mind, could have been summarized in just afew pages and far more first hand action is warranted. Still, it is an interesting premise and subtly carried out so that the mystery deepens as you go along until the big reveal near the end. Half a Mind is not easy reading but will reward you with some very interesting technical ideas.
I liked Half a Mind but it is a difficult read. Everything is there---likeable characters, a love story sub plot, even some action toward the end. But to get there, one has to wade through a lot of jargon and research mumbo-jumbo which, to my mind, could have been summarized in just afew pages and far more first hand action is warranted. Still, it is an interesting premise and subtly carried out so that the mystery deepens as you go along until the big reveal near the end. Half a Mind is not easy reading but will reward you with some very interesting technical ideas.
February 26, 2016
Half a Mind, by Bruce Perrin, is a murder mystery with an original plot. Scientists have made a device that will block one of our two hemispheres of the brain, with very interesting and horrible effects on the subject. The main character of the novel; Sam Price, is working for a company validating new research, and with his team of clever scientific auditors, are investigating the device. What they find is not pleasant.
I really liked the book. In addition to reading an exciting tale, you will learn a lot about the brain, and how it works. It's clear that the author knows a lot about neurology and psychology, and it's nice to learn and be entertained at the same time. Recommended!
I received a free book in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the book. In addition to reading an exciting tale, you will learn a lot about the brain, and how it works. It's clear that the author knows a lot about neurology and psychology, and it's nice to learn and be entertained at the same time. Recommended!
I received a free book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2016
Intriguing premise, I was hooked on the description alone. I was expecting things to move a little more quickly, and every once in a while the story gets bogged down in excessive details and scientific explanations, but the overall premise and characters were unique enough to keep me hooked. I'm glad to see there is a sequel out and another on the way because I don't like reading stories where the author isn't invested, and this one seems to be something he's trying to continue, though I would love for there to be a little more action and less details to bog everything down. I did like that the explanations were done in dialogue instead of just random paragraphs full of it, but it was still a little too much.
December 29, 2015
Very impressed with this book. I love a book set in my home town and the familiar STL references made me attach to it even more. A murder mystery solved by science not brunt, I love it. I love the scientific side of this. The extensive use to scientific terms however may be difficult for some readers but for me it only added to the story. The idea of more fully utilizing the human brain took me back to Lucy, which I love, but with a new twist of the idea. This book is best for those who like the mystery side of things but enjoy a very intellectual read.
March 7, 2019
Of Half a Mind, by Bruce Perrin, is the first book in “The Mind Sleuth” series, starring research psychologist Sam “Doc” Price. This is an intellectual mystery, filled with plot twists and puzzles and interesting characters. It’s a well-written page-turner that will keep you guessing, and keep you wanting to keep guessing, to the very end. It’s also a learning experience for those of us not well-versed in the science of brain function, which the author weaves into the story very effectively. It’s not a perfect book, but it’s enjoyable and well worth the time and price.
In this story, a young Doc, in his first job after getting his PhD, is assigned to review a proposal for research to be funded by the Veteran’s Administration that started out as a way to deal with phantom limb pain, but morphed into a technique for improving cognitive brain function, and in particular memory. The research is interesting because it involves using an electro-magnetic device to suppress brain function in one hemisphere of the brain, forcing the other parts of the brain to compensate and thereby strengthening total brain function when both halves are reunited and not “blocked.” But, it turns out that there are side-effects to this blocking technology, which leads Doc and his team – the wise-cracking colleague Sue and the attractive consultant from another company, Nicole – on what turns out to be a chase to uncover a mystery and solve a murder.
Throughout the story, the author gives us a narrative from the perspective of “the Experimenter,” who is the villain of the story. The Experimenter is using human guinea pigs to test the limits of the brain blocker technology, and he doesn’t mind if they suffer or die in the process. The Experimenter has no morals, and we learn that this is due to his own use of the brain blocker, which has heightened his abilities in the left hemisphere functions, while suppressing right-brain functions, including sympathy and guilt. The big mystery for the reader is figuring out who the Experimenter is, while following Doc’s process of following the trail of scientific bread crumbs. The author gives the reader some clues, but also a few false leads along the way, but the technique keeps you guessing until shortly before the big reveal. If you’re paying attention, you will figure it out, but not so soon that it will spoil the plot.
There is a lot of explanation about the science involved here, and the author weaves that into the conversations between the characters and in exposition about the action in a way that makes it palatable and not a boring textbook. At times there may be a bit too much technical material, but I found it fascinating and it’s easily glossed over if you’re not interested. The plot really gets going when Doc and his team meet with the scientist who is developing the brain blocker and who has applied for the VA grant. The developer behaves in an erratic manner – and then ends up dead. The police are not really investigating it as a murder – and this is not a police-oriented murder mystery by any stretch – because there is no conventional evidence of foul play. But Doc, Sue, and Nicole think that murder is in play, as does the doctor’s widow, who watched him deteriorate under the effects of the brain-blocker device.
The plot moves along at a steady pace as the heroes focus in on the villain, known only as “A.T.” from his initials in the early experiments with the blocker. Meanwhile, Doc tries to spark a romance with Nicole in his clumsy scientist way, which is endearing. There are plenty of twists and turns in the plot, and while there are a few too-convenient coincidences that play into the reveal of the Experimenter’s identity and a few leaps of logic and unexpected facts that suddenly come to light, the final sequence is still surprising and compelling. One particular fact mentioned several times earlier in the story becomes critical at the end, which was nicely woven together and unexpected – but then also “of course” it was there all along.
For baseball fans, the author includes many references to his (apparently) beloved St. Louis Cardinals, and the story is set in and around St. Louis. There are not so many local references that the book becomes a travelogue, but if you are familiar with the area you’ll appreciate the detail. If you’re a baseball fan, there’s also a small Easter egg in one of the minor character names that I found fun.
The book is extremely well edited, and while I personally thought the author overused ellipses as punctuation, the flow of the story was never interrupted by bad copy editing. The author’s language and writing style save us from what could be a quagmire of scientific detail and make the story into a thrilling adventure. The characters are well-formed, each with a very individual personality and speaking style, which makes for an easy read. (At one point Sue’s character is referred to by her last name, which I had forgotten since she was generally referred to as “Sue,” which threw me for a few pages, but that’s my own failure of memory and I figured it out pretty quickly.) There’s a small throw-away legal issue in the wrap up at the end that could have been handled better and a few plot gaps that could have been bridged more elegantly, but overall this was a fun read with an intriguing plot and a very original premise. I will certainly be on the lookout for the next installment of the Mind Sleuth series to find out what happens in Doc’s next adventure.
In this story, a young Doc, in his first job after getting his PhD, is assigned to review a proposal for research to be funded by the Veteran’s Administration that started out as a way to deal with phantom limb pain, but morphed into a technique for improving cognitive brain function, and in particular memory. The research is interesting because it involves using an electro-magnetic device to suppress brain function in one hemisphere of the brain, forcing the other parts of the brain to compensate and thereby strengthening total brain function when both halves are reunited and not “blocked.” But, it turns out that there are side-effects to this blocking technology, which leads Doc and his team – the wise-cracking colleague Sue and the attractive consultant from another company, Nicole – on what turns out to be a chase to uncover a mystery and solve a murder.
Throughout the story, the author gives us a narrative from the perspective of “the Experimenter,” who is the villain of the story. The Experimenter is using human guinea pigs to test the limits of the brain blocker technology, and he doesn’t mind if they suffer or die in the process. The Experimenter has no morals, and we learn that this is due to his own use of the brain blocker, which has heightened his abilities in the left hemisphere functions, while suppressing right-brain functions, including sympathy and guilt. The big mystery for the reader is figuring out who the Experimenter is, while following Doc’s process of following the trail of scientific bread crumbs. The author gives the reader some clues, but also a few false leads along the way, but the technique keeps you guessing until shortly before the big reveal. If you’re paying attention, you will figure it out, but not so soon that it will spoil the plot.
There is a lot of explanation about the science involved here, and the author weaves that into the conversations between the characters and in exposition about the action in a way that makes it palatable and not a boring textbook. At times there may be a bit too much technical material, but I found it fascinating and it’s easily glossed over if you’re not interested. The plot really gets going when Doc and his team meet with the scientist who is developing the brain blocker and who has applied for the VA grant. The developer behaves in an erratic manner – and then ends up dead. The police are not really investigating it as a murder – and this is not a police-oriented murder mystery by any stretch – because there is no conventional evidence of foul play. But Doc, Sue, and Nicole think that murder is in play, as does the doctor’s widow, who watched him deteriorate under the effects of the brain-blocker device.
The plot moves along at a steady pace as the heroes focus in on the villain, known only as “A.T.” from his initials in the early experiments with the blocker. Meanwhile, Doc tries to spark a romance with Nicole in his clumsy scientist way, which is endearing. There are plenty of twists and turns in the plot, and while there are a few too-convenient coincidences that play into the reveal of the Experimenter’s identity and a few leaps of logic and unexpected facts that suddenly come to light, the final sequence is still surprising and compelling. One particular fact mentioned several times earlier in the story becomes critical at the end, which was nicely woven together and unexpected – but then also “of course” it was there all along.
For baseball fans, the author includes many references to his (apparently) beloved St. Louis Cardinals, and the story is set in and around St. Louis. There are not so many local references that the book becomes a travelogue, but if you are familiar with the area you’ll appreciate the detail. If you’re a baseball fan, there’s also a small Easter egg in one of the minor character names that I found fun.
The book is extremely well edited, and while I personally thought the author overused ellipses as punctuation, the flow of the story was never interrupted by bad copy editing. The author’s language and writing style save us from what could be a quagmire of scientific detail and make the story into a thrilling adventure. The characters are well-formed, each with a very individual personality and speaking style, which makes for an easy read. (At one point Sue’s character is referred to by her last name, which I had forgotten since she was generally referred to as “Sue,” which threw me for a few pages, but that’s my own failure of memory and I figured it out pretty quickly.) There’s a small throw-away legal issue in the wrap up at the end that could have been handled better and a few plot gaps that could have been bridged more elegantly, but overall this was a fun read with an intriguing plot and a very original premise. I will certainly be on the lookout for the next installment of the Mind Sleuth series to find out what happens in Doc’s next adventure.
May 9, 2016
Somewhat heavy on scientific jargon and abbreviations, but still engaging and interesting. I think the science element is an asset, even if it makes the book harder to digest. Well written on the whole, including natural dialog, which one wouldn't expect from a more technically minded book. It is a bit of a grind when technology or brain function is laid out in detail, but otherwise moves briskly. A strong ending.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2018
Perhaps one of the coolest aspects of fiction and novels is when authors interject their profession into the mix. Whether they be attorneys, police officers, ballet dancers, musicians, scientists or surgeons, there is a certain pleasure in exploring a world when led by a knowledgeable denizen.
With that being said, novelist Bruce Perrin certainly has an interesting day job. He has a PhD in Industrial Psychology and a career in psychological research and development. So needless to say, he probably has plenty of cool insights into the inner workings of the human brain, and the megalomaniacs who seek to exploit these inner workings.
In "Of Half a Mind," Doctor Sam Price leads his team as they explore the possibly sinister research and ideas of Dr. Ned Worthington, a tremendous but unsettled explorer in the realm of neuroscience.
If things seem a little formulaic, it’s perfectly fine because the formula almost always works: A troubled madman on the verge of playing God, with little or no remorse for his victims or ethics. A madman who won’t hesitate to turn on those who get too close or stand in his way.
The story is especially fascinating in our current brave new world, as each decade brings startling new insights into artificial intelligence and the working of the human mind. What does it truly mean to be left-brained? Right-brained?
There’s undoubtedly going to be quite a few readers who really glom onto this book. There’s quite a large demand for a good psycho-thriller, especially one penned by an author with such authentic scientific insights into the human mind. Some of the dialogue could definitely be crisper, however, but the story flows well.
It would have been easy for Mr. Perrin to go completely overboard with a barrage of scientific fact and psychological jargon, but the novel is well-balanced with some intriguing characters and some pleasant social interaction. I have mixed feelings about the cover, but so be it.
Bottom line, this is really a promising start to a literary career. Perhaps the world could use another Michael Crichton
With that being said, novelist Bruce Perrin certainly has an interesting day job. He has a PhD in Industrial Psychology and a career in psychological research and development. So needless to say, he probably has plenty of cool insights into the inner workings of the human brain, and the megalomaniacs who seek to exploit these inner workings.
In "Of Half a Mind," Doctor Sam Price leads his team as they explore the possibly sinister research and ideas of Dr. Ned Worthington, a tremendous but unsettled explorer in the realm of neuroscience.
If things seem a little formulaic, it’s perfectly fine because the formula almost always works: A troubled madman on the verge of playing God, with little or no remorse for his victims or ethics. A madman who won’t hesitate to turn on those who get too close or stand in his way.
The story is especially fascinating in our current brave new world, as each decade brings startling new insights into artificial intelligence and the working of the human mind. What does it truly mean to be left-brained? Right-brained?
There’s undoubtedly going to be quite a few readers who really glom onto this book. There’s quite a large demand for a good psycho-thriller, especially one penned by an author with such authentic scientific insights into the human mind. Some of the dialogue could definitely be crisper, however, but the story flows well.
It would have been easy for Mr. Perrin to go completely overboard with a barrage of scientific fact and psychological jargon, but the novel is well-balanced with some intriguing characters and some pleasant social interaction. I have mixed feelings about the cover, but so be it.
Bottom line, this is really a promising start to a literary career. Perhaps the world could use another Michael Crichton
February 11, 2021
On wow. This book is slow to start with lots of techno babble that somehow made sends when you were listening to (but don't ask me to explain it now) but you quickly found that you were drawn into the story and was guessing who AT was right along with the characters. The author has you suspecting everyone but with the twist in the story and despite the clues I never saw the ending coming or who the experimenter was. There is a very bodies but as nobody knew they were dead the investigation isn't into there death's but rather does some new technology work. The story is told mainly by the main character Sam 'Doc' Price but every now and again you are given the perspective of the experimenter/killer, this works well as get you more clues or red herrings and explains the two different points of views. This is a serious book (and very possible scary, if we start to think how far people are willing to take things) but I liked the jokey banter between the characters as they carried out there investigation. I would recommend.
Sam and his team Sue and Nicole are called in to investigate a claim that Dr. Ned Worthington has created a device to rewire the brain, a project the VA is very interested in to help there members deal with phantom limb pain. They are met by resistance making there job a whole lot hard but just what is he hiding? Side effects from the machine? Or the fact that he could be using it himself? According to his wife he has certain changed but is that the cover up or is it something a lot more dangerous going on. Will digging through endless paper work on his experiments of the subject only know as AT give them the answer they need before it's too late?
I liked the narrator. He had a deep gruff voice that I wasn't sure about at first but he soon had me convinced he was perfect for the story.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Sam and his team Sue and Nicole are called in to investigate a claim that Dr. Ned Worthington has created a device to rewire the brain, a project the VA is very interested in to help there members deal with phantom limb pain. They are met by resistance making there job a whole lot hard but just what is he hiding? Side effects from the machine? Or the fact that he could be using it himself? According to his wife he has certain changed but is that the cover up or is it something a lot more dangerous going on. Will digging through endless paper work on his experiments of the subject only know as AT give them the answer they need before it's too late?
I liked the narrator. He had a deep gruff voice that I wasn't sure about at first but he soon had me convinced he was perfect for the story.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 18, 2019
I was provided a copy to review by the author. What follows are my own thoughts.
Is it possible to expand your mind, truly. Can we train the mind to be able to remember things we thought we could not. When we use one side of the brain, what happens to the other. These are questions this book explores while delving into a murder mystery. A team is investigating for the VA to see if a technology could actually remove phantom limb pain, and help rewire the brain. The company head seems not to co-operate and is actually quite paranoid.
Most of the book is viewed from one of two people. Sam, who is being asked to determine if this technology is possible, and the experimenter, who appears to be continuing the experiments, even after the person who is trying to get grant money to continue is killed. There are a few chapters where we hear other people's thought but they are not major character, so they are more one offs.
The author has done a good job of keeping then story interesting. Every time I thought I had it figured out, it turned out it was not that person. The clues are there to show you who the experimenter is, you just have to take notice of them. It is a little heavy on scientific jargon, but that cannot be helped. In order to explain the murder, the way the brain functions must be told.
Does the technology exist today, in some form or fashion it does. Could it be used this way. I do not think so, but it could and that makes it that much more of a scare.
I recommend to any. Mid teens or older would be the starting line, I doubt children would want to read it as it is technical in many places. It may even be to much for young teens. There is no sex in it, though there are some jokes that are of that nature. The small amounts of violence seem to be done tastefully.
Is it possible to expand your mind, truly. Can we train the mind to be able to remember things we thought we could not. When we use one side of the brain, what happens to the other. These are questions this book explores while delving into a murder mystery. A team is investigating for the VA to see if a technology could actually remove phantom limb pain, and help rewire the brain. The company head seems not to co-operate and is actually quite paranoid.
Most of the book is viewed from one of two people. Sam, who is being asked to determine if this technology is possible, and the experimenter, who appears to be continuing the experiments, even after the person who is trying to get grant money to continue is killed. There are a few chapters where we hear other people's thought but they are not major character, so they are more one offs.
The author has done a good job of keeping then story interesting. Every time I thought I had it figured out, it turned out it was not that person. The clues are there to show you who the experimenter is, you just have to take notice of them. It is a little heavy on scientific jargon, but that cannot be helped. In order to explain the murder, the way the brain functions must be told.
Does the technology exist today, in some form or fashion it does. Could it be used this way. I do not think so, but it could and that makes it that much more of a scare.
I recommend to any. Mid teens or older would be the starting line, I doubt children would want to read it as it is technical in many places. It may even be to much for young teens. There is no sex in it, though there are some jokes that are of that nature. The small amounts of violence seem to be done tastefully.
September 16, 2019
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Of Half a Mind
Author: Bruce M. Perrin
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 7/10
Of the 17 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
14 thought the cover was good or excellent.
14 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 12 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
12 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘A strong thriller written to a high standard. The mystery in the story was the weakest element; the characterisation was the strongest.’ Male reader, aged 56
‘If you enjoy techno-thrillers, this is for you. Tightly written, rather technical with lots of science. I did spot the odd typo, but nothing too bad.’ Female reader, aged 38
‘Good, solid story. A little too technical in parts which killed the pacing for me. Bu the author attempts to work it into the plot and speech of the characters. It seemed well-researched. Most techno-thriller readers will enjoy this.’ Male reader, aged 69
‘Interesting plot with a focus on scientific dilemmas. The writing style works for the thriller genre with interesting characters. All in all, a fascinating read.’ Female reader, aged 55
To Sum It Up:
‘A cleverly plotted techno-thriller with powerful characterisation. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Of Half a Mind
Author: Bruce M. Perrin
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 7/10
Of the 17 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
14 thought the cover was good or excellent.
14 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 12 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
12 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘A strong thriller written to a high standard. The mystery in the story was the weakest element; the characterisation was the strongest.’ Male reader, aged 56
‘If you enjoy techno-thrillers, this is for you. Tightly written, rather technical with lots of science. I did spot the odd typo, but nothing too bad.’ Female reader, aged 38
‘Good, solid story. A little too technical in parts which killed the pacing for me. Bu the author attempts to work it into the plot and speech of the characters. It seemed well-researched. Most techno-thriller readers will enjoy this.’ Male reader, aged 69
‘Interesting plot with a focus on scientific dilemmas. The writing style works for the thriller genre with interesting characters. All in all, a fascinating read.’ Female reader, aged 55
To Sum It Up:
‘A cleverly plotted techno-thriller with powerful characterisation. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
May 6, 2018
Science Fiction at its Best.
This story is billed as a mix of Science Fiction and mystery thriller with the subtitle, The Mind Sleuth Series. I was interested to see what the writer made of all this. What I found was a hard SF-techno-crime-thriller written with scientific accuracy and with corporate intrigue thrown in to test the commercial limits of scientific experimentation.
The writing style reminded me of Michael Crichton's stories: the action concentrated, precise, the telling unemotional with technical descriptions abounding, the figures subordinated to the plot. However, from the point of view of a non-technical reader, this story is well through out and smoothly written. The theme not bad, just attacked with the energy of a scientist and with a brain used to explaining and expounding in detail. The atmosphere of research and scientific investigation is nicely presented and informatively told. The infighting and petty jealousies of the academic world are brought out beautifully. Also, the mentality of researchers out to square the circle, whatever the cost, is well done. Much of the long stretches of narration and much of the scientific terminology, the lab-rat patter and the jargon can be excused when seen against this background. (After all, the reader can skip the technological parts if he/she wants without losing the thread of the story.)
This book will be a treat for SF fans and techno buffs. For normal human beings, however, less tech would have make this story an easier read and just as fascinating and, from my point of view, a five-star book.
This story is billed as a mix of Science Fiction and mystery thriller with the subtitle, The Mind Sleuth Series. I was interested to see what the writer made of all this. What I found was a hard SF-techno-crime-thriller written with scientific accuracy and with corporate intrigue thrown in to test the commercial limits of scientific experimentation.
The writing style reminded me of Michael Crichton's stories: the action concentrated, precise, the telling unemotional with technical descriptions abounding, the figures subordinated to the plot. However, from the point of view of a non-technical reader, this story is well through out and smoothly written. The theme not bad, just attacked with the energy of a scientist and with a brain used to explaining and expounding in detail. The atmosphere of research and scientific investigation is nicely presented and informatively told. The infighting and petty jealousies of the academic world are brought out beautifully. Also, the mentality of researchers out to square the circle, whatever the cost, is well done. Much of the long stretches of narration and much of the scientific terminology, the lab-rat patter and the jargon can be excused when seen against this background. (After all, the reader can skip the technological parts if he/she wants without losing the thread of the story.)
This book will be a treat for SF fans and techno buffs. For normal human beings, however, less tech would have make this story an easier read and just as fascinating and, from my point of view, a five-star book.
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