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Fault Lines #2
Flash Point
What If the Limits of Time and Space Were Breached?
Junior financial analyst Lena Fennan loves managing risk and making money. Yet when she gets a mysterious invitation to take a leap into the unknown, she does not hesitate. Soon a series of events takes her to the brink of destruction. But Lena refuses to give in, entranced by glimpses of a future that redefine everything.
Reese Clawson emerges from prison gripped by the slow burn of revenge. She will track everyone who hand a hand in destroying her--and take them out. First on the list is Charlie Hazard.
As time and space become jumbled, Lena and Reese are pulled into a collision course that could alter the parameters of human consciousness.
Junior financial analyst Lena Fennan loves managing risk and making money. Yet when she gets a mysterious invitation to take a leap into the unknown, she does not hesitate. Soon a series of events takes her to the brink of destruction. But Lena refuses to give in, entranced by glimpses of a future that redefine everything.
Reese Clawson emerges from prison gripped by the slow burn of revenge. She will track everyone who hand a hand in destroying her--and take them out. First on the list is Charlie Hazard.
As time and space become jumbled, Lena and Reese are pulled into a collision course that could alter the parameters of human consciousness.
368 pages, Paperback
First published August 2, 2016
22 people are currently reading
631 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Locke
29 books305 followersThomas Locke is an award-winning novelist with total worldwide sales of seven million copies.
His work has been published in twenty languages, and critical acclaim includes four Christy Awards for excellence in fiction and his 2014 induction into the Christy Hall of Fame.
Thomas divides his time between Florida and England, where he serves as Writer In Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University. He holds a lifelong passion for epic fantasy, science fiction and techno-thriller stories.
Thomas's screenplay adaption of EMISSARY is under development as a feature film with a British production company.
Contact Thomas at info@tlocke.com
His work has been published in twenty languages, and critical acclaim includes four Christy Awards for excellence in fiction and his 2014 induction into the Christy Hall of Fame.
Thomas divides his time between Florida and England, where he serves as Writer In Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University. He holds a lifelong passion for epic fantasy, science fiction and techno-thriller stories.
Thomas's screenplay adaption of EMISSARY is under development as a feature film with a British production company.
Contact Thomas at info@tlocke.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 5, 2016
Lena Fennan works in finance and has been receiving messages guiding her to acquire certain companies. Eventually she meets up with Dr. Brett Riffkind who has been studying ascents, the separation of awareness from the physical body. In a separate group, Reese Clawson is also exploring ascents. One of the problems I had with this book is that it never really explains the ultimate objectives of either group or why they are in opposition.
I kept waiting for this book to get to the point. Around the 50% point it began to pick up. Before that, there were a lot of business meetings. The Reese plot line was much more interesting to me than the Lena/Brett plot line. There really wasn't any excitement in either plot line until the book was almost over.
I had a couple of minor quibbles. First, there is a sappy romance between Lena and Brett that got on my nerves. Second, Hell's Kitchen is not on the east side of Manhattan. Getting science right is hard, but looking at a map should be easy.
I read "Trial Run", the first book in this series, and I recommend reading it before reading this book, because it would make the events of "Flash Point" slightly clearer. However, I found the "science" in both books extremely fuzzy and not well fleshed out. It was not clear to me how, or the extent to which, the untethered consciousness could impact the physical world. And then there were the beasts who appeared out of nowhere and without explanation. I had the sinking feeling as I got close to the end that this book, like the first one, was not going to provide answers. Maybe explanations are supposed to come in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
I kept waiting for this book to get to the point. Around the 50% point it began to pick up. Before that, there were a lot of business meetings. The Reese plot line was much more interesting to me than the Lena/Brett plot line. There really wasn't any excitement in either plot line until the book was almost over.
I had a couple of minor quibbles. First, there is a sappy romance between Lena and Brett that got on my nerves. Second, Hell's Kitchen is not on the east side of Manhattan. Getting science right is hard, but looking at a map should be easy.
I read "Trial Run", the first book in this series, and I recommend reading it before reading this book, because it would make the events of "Flash Point" slightly clearer. However, I found the "science" in both books extremely fuzzy and not well fleshed out. It was not clear to me how, or the extent to which, the untethered consciousness could impact the physical world. And then there were the beasts who appeared out of nowhere and without explanation. I had the sinking feeling as I got close to the end that this book, like the first one, was not going to provide answers. Maybe explanations are supposed to come in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
June 27, 2022
An exciting end to the series. I was glad for the story of Lena and Brett. Loved these characters. When our main villain had a moment of empathy, I thought there might be some hope for redemption for her…Locke set it up for another book, but that was not to be, either.
August 15, 2016
This is the second book in Thomas Locke's new series, Fault Lines, and is just as action packed as the first one. You'll have a better understanding of this book and what is going on if you read the first book, Trial Run.
Just as spine-tingling and psychologically thrilling as the first book, Flash Point continues several months after the first book ended. I like that Brett is trying to make amends for his past betrayal by helping the elderly and terminally ill. He becomes a key part of the action that's about to take place with the introduction of some new characters. And although new characters are introduced, you also get to read more about the characters from the first book. Most notably is Reese's mysterious release from prison and the start of her quest to crush Charlie Hazard and his team. Lock's description of Reese is bone-chilling and yet she fights the other-worldly monsters that are trying to take over her team. So is she a good bad guy??
As with the first one, my enjoyment of this book was somewhat lessened by the fact that I didn't understand a lot of the scientific technological terms and the fact that you aren't really told what goals or visions are leading Lena and the team. Lena gets this brilliant vision and then she's led to tell people about it and put it into action. However, as the reader, you have to kind of piece it together by what happens in the rest of the book because it's never fully told to you.
Although not written as a "Christian" book, the realm the teams find themselves in while out-of-body and the monsters they face there and in the flesh, to me are reminiscent of spiritual warfare. You definitely have a good-vs-evil vibe. Locke's description of the monsters and the way they take over the body of the team member was definitely creepy and made me think of demons. The stand off at the end was spectacular and awesome!
Thomas Locke (aka Davis Bunn) is a very talented & prolific writer so I have no doubt that if you enjoy a fast paced, action packed book, you'll love this mind-bending, spine-tingling, psychologically thrilling techno-thriller!
*Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
Just as spine-tingling and psychologically thrilling as the first book, Flash Point continues several months after the first book ended. I like that Brett is trying to make amends for his past betrayal by helping the elderly and terminally ill. He becomes a key part of the action that's about to take place with the introduction of some new characters. And although new characters are introduced, you also get to read more about the characters from the first book. Most notably is Reese's mysterious release from prison and the start of her quest to crush Charlie Hazard and his team. Lock's description of Reese is bone-chilling and yet she fights the other-worldly monsters that are trying to take over her team. So is she a good bad guy??
As with the first one, my enjoyment of this book was somewhat lessened by the fact that I didn't understand a lot of the scientific technological terms and the fact that you aren't really told what goals or visions are leading Lena and the team. Lena gets this brilliant vision and then she's led to tell people about it and put it into action. However, as the reader, you have to kind of piece it together by what happens in the rest of the book because it's never fully told to you.
Although not written as a "Christian" book, the realm the teams find themselves in while out-of-body and the monsters they face there and in the flesh, to me are reminiscent of spiritual warfare. You definitely have a good-vs-evil vibe. Locke's description of the monsters and the way they take over the body of the team member was definitely creepy and made me think of demons. The stand off at the end was spectacular and awesome!
Thomas Locke (aka Davis Bunn) is a very talented & prolific writer so I have no doubt that if you enjoy a fast paced, action packed book, you'll love this mind-bending, spine-tingling, psychologically thrilling techno-thriller!
*Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
August 29, 2016
The boundaries of suspense and supernatural cross in book 2 of the Fault Lines Series. Unsure of what I was getting into in this book, I can always count on the author delivering interesting characters, superb writing, and a plot line that will drive me to keep turning the pages whether I truly understand what's happening or not-because I just have to know, "What comes next?"
Techno-thriller is not usually my choice for stories but I couldn't resist when it comes to Davis Bunn's (aka Thomas Locke) writing. And this book probably delivers exactly what readers of this genre love. Mind-bending realities, some supernatural warfare, and all of it surrounds technology that is "other-worldly". For me, personally, I found myself lost in the translation of what was happening but because the writing is so good-I kept reading.
While this story was not my cup of tea I think the book has strong dimensional characters and a plot line that I believe would make all techno-thriller fans very happy.
*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Techno-thriller is not usually my choice for stories but I couldn't resist when it comes to Davis Bunn's (aka Thomas Locke) writing. And this book probably delivers exactly what readers of this genre love. Mind-bending realities, some supernatural warfare, and all of it surrounds technology that is "other-worldly". For me, personally, I found myself lost in the translation of what was happening but because the writing is so good-I kept reading.
While this story was not my cup of tea I think the book has strong dimensional characters and a plot line that I believe would make all techno-thriller fans very happy.
*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
June 5, 2021
Flash Point by Thomas Locke is the second book in the series. I did not read the first book and which gave me a different perspective. I truly enjoyed how the story stretched my thinking.
Lena was an analyst that had urging to invest in a different industry. I enjoyed watching her succeed. I wasn’t prepared for her to meet Brett. I loved their chemistry.
Reese was another main character, I spent half the book trying to figure out if she was a good gal or bad gal. You feel for her and what she has been through.
Bottom line this book is fascinating. I wanted to keep reading to figure out what was going to happen next and what it all meant.
Lena was an analyst that had urging to invest in a different industry. I enjoyed watching her succeed. I wasn’t prepared for her to meet Brett. I loved their chemistry.
Reese was another main character, I spent half the book trying to figure out if she was a good gal or bad gal. You feel for her and what she has been through.
Bottom line this book is fascinating. I wanted to keep reading to figure out what was going to happen next and what it all meant.
November 22, 2019
I read the first book in this series, Trial Run, and I said that this genre is not my thing, but I ended up reading the second book, Flash Point, anyway. I enjoyed it more than the first book and felt that the story line was more interesting than Trial Run. Still, all of the out-of-body experiences are a bit much, and at the end of the book, it was hard to tell what was reality and what was otherworldly. It ended in a sort of cliff hanger; so I'm assuming that there will more books to follow in the Fault Lines series.
August 5, 2016
Where on earth do I start? Probably by telling you that techno-thriller is not a genre I would normally read. As intelligent as I like to think I am, subjects like quantum physics tend to short circuit my brain, and while I appreciate my modern conveniences, I’m not a technologically-minded person. That said, I have read and enjoyed several books by Thomas Locke (and Davis Bunn), so I was prepared to take a chance on this one. Imagine my surprise when I found myself hooked by the first book in this series (Trial Run) from the very first page! (And I do recommend reading the series in order: Double Edge (prequel), Trial Run, then Flash Point, because you will have a much better foundation from which to grasp what’s going on this novel).
The premise behind this series is that Dr. Gabriella Speciale, an experimental psychologist, has spent several years researching the use of harmonic frequencies to simulate particular brain-wave patterns for meditative or therapeutic effect. With the help of neuroscientist, Dr. Brett Riffkind, the research yielded results far beyond their expectations by inducing controlled out-of-body experiences. Their experimentation with this out-of-body experience is the basis for Trial Run.
Flash Point moves the focus away from Gabriella’s work and on to three characters who will eventually encounter the work of Dr. Bernard Bishop. He has developed a ‘neural net’ (a cross between a helmet and a flexible webbing with electrodes fitted in order to stimulate the brain) which shows an amazing ability to stimulate a variety of neurochemicals important in the treatment of conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, mental disorders, motor-neuron ailments, epilepsy, and even migraines, but his research was abruptly cancelled when five of his patients died, leaving him disgraced and bankrupt.
The story opens by introducing Lena Fennan, a new character to the series. She is a young financial analyst with no knowledge of any of this research at the beginning of the novel. All she knows is that she has been receiving advice via some sort of weird telepathic communication about a series of high risk business and financial transactions that end up netting her a one thousand percent profit in just two weeks. However, all of this is but a prelude to the main event: connecting with Dr. Brett Riffkind and providing the means of resurrecting Dr. Bishop’s research.
Brett Riffkind plays a more active role in this novel than he did in Trial Run. He suspects that Dr. Bishop’s neural net was not responsible for the deaths of those five patients, but that they were killed because the neural net induced in them the same controlled out-of-body experience that he and Gabriella discovered. He believes someone ordered their deaths in order to discredit and then steal Dr. Bishop’s work so it could be further developed in secrecy for their own purposes.
Reese Clawson is a trained security and intelligence operative who was given orders not only to take out Gabriella and her research team, but to secure the research and discover whether it can be used in espionage. Failing to do so landed her in prison at the end of Trial Run, but she has been given a final chance at securing her freedom: using Dr. Bishop’s neural nets to train ‘voyagers’; operatives who can enter a controlled out-of-body state to access and retrieve specific intelligence.
When Reese’s superiors learn that Dr. Bishop has suddenly vanished, her mission changes; her voyagers must locate Dr. Bishop and then eliminate him and everyone working with him, including Charlie Hazard. But Reese knows that her success will also be her undoing; because once her team proves they are successful, she becomes a liability her superiors will be quick to neutralize.
As you can see, there is nothing simple about this plot! I found it required a higher level of intellectual engagement than most thrillers I’ve read, but I was also astounded by how plausible Locke made all of this seem. While he keeps explanations to a minimum, there are times when explaining the science behind these out-of-body experiences is an organic part of the scene, and my mind boggled at the research and knowledge that must have gone into devising this plot.
I will say, however, that I didn’t quite connect with these characters as much as I did with the ones in Trial Run. I think I felt a little lost at the beginning of the novel, because Lena was an unknown and, for a while, I wasn’t really sure where things were heading or how Lena and Reese’s stories were connected. I also found that I spent a greater amount of energy than I normally would just following the plot, which may have detracted from my ability to simply live the characters’ stories.
In any case, the writing was the same strong, detailed writing I have come to expect from Thomas Locke, and the plot is tense and pretty mind-blowing! The ending of the book left a few questions unanswered, and hinted at a third book to follow, and I find myself hoping that is the case. If nothing else, there is definitely a show-down between Reese and Charlie Hazard still in the offing!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
The premise behind this series is that Dr. Gabriella Speciale, an experimental psychologist, has spent several years researching the use of harmonic frequencies to simulate particular brain-wave patterns for meditative or therapeutic effect. With the help of neuroscientist, Dr. Brett Riffkind, the research yielded results far beyond their expectations by inducing controlled out-of-body experiences. Their experimentation with this out-of-body experience is the basis for Trial Run.
Flash Point moves the focus away from Gabriella’s work and on to three characters who will eventually encounter the work of Dr. Bernard Bishop. He has developed a ‘neural net’ (a cross between a helmet and a flexible webbing with electrodes fitted in order to stimulate the brain) which shows an amazing ability to stimulate a variety of neurochemicals important in the treatment of conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, mental disorders, motor-neuron ailments, epilepsy, and even migraines, but his research was abruptly cancelled when five of his patients died, leaving him disgraced and bankrupt.
The story opens by introducing Lena Fennan, a new character to the series. She is a young financial analyst with no knowledge of any of this research at the beginning of the novel. All she knows is that she has been receiving advice via some sort of weird telepathic communication about a series of high risk business and financial transactions that end up netting her a one thousand percent profit in just two weeks. However, all of this is but a prelude to the main event: connecting with Dr. Brett Riffkind and providing the means of resurrecting Dr. Bishop’s research.
Brett Riffkind plays a more active role in this novel than he did in Trial Run. He suspects that Dr. Bishop’s neural net was not responsible for the deaths of those five patients, but that they were killed because the neural net induced in them the same controlled out-of-body experience that he and Gabriella discovered. He believes someone ordered their deaths in order to discredit and then steal Dr. Bishop’s work so it could be further developed in secrecy for their own purposes.
Reese Clawson is a trained security and intelligence operative who was given orders not only to take out Gabriella and her research team, but to secure the research and discover whether it can be used in espionage. Failing to do so landed her in prison at the end of Trial Run, but she has been given a final chance at securing her freedom: using Dr. Bishop’s neural nets to train ‘voyagers’; operatives who can enter a controlled out-of-body state to access and retrieve specific intelligence.
When Reese’s superiors learn that Dr. Bishop has suddenly vanished, her mission changes; her voyagers must locate Dr. Bishop and then eliminate him and everyone working with him, including Charlie Hazard. But Reese knows that her success will also be her undoing; because once her team proves they are successful, she becomes a liability her superiors will be quick to neutralize.
As you can see, there is nothing simple about this plot! I found it required a higher level of intellectual engagement than most thrillers I’ve read, but I was also astounded by how plausible Locke made all of this seem. While he keeps explanations to a minimum, there are times when explaining the science behind these out-of-body experiences is an organic part of the scene, and my mind boggled at the research and knowledge that must have gone into devising this plot.
I will say, however, that I didn’t quite connect with these characters as much as I did with the ones in Trial Run. I think I felt a little lost at the beginning of the novel, because Lena was an unknown and, for a while, I wasn’t really sure where things were heading or how Lena and Reese’s stories were connected. I also found that I spent a greater amount of energy than I normally would just following the plot, which may have detracted from my ability to simply live the characters’ stories.
In any case, the writing was the same strong, detailed writing I have come to expect from Thomas Locke, and the plot is tense and pretty mind-blowing! The ending of the book left a few questions unanswered, and hinted at a third book to follow, and I find myself hoping that is the case. If nothing else, there is definitely a show-down between Reese and Charlie Hazard still in the offing!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
December 17, 2018
This book, IMHO, rates better than three stars, but probably not four. At times, it seemed hard to follow the two primary groups, vying for for similar goals, as it was difficult to envision certain transformations during what they termed 'assents'. "Thomas Locke" has a way of writing deeper and faster than I can follow, but usually spins a good story and/or series, too.
August 18, 2023
I liked the book, but it's all a little far fetched. What I didn't like much is that some characters just seem to disappear from one book to another. Adara Sherman was at least mentioned in the end, but what happened to Midas?
April 3, 2025
kept my interest and had to pay attention because of the shifting point of views but it ends with no real end just hanging with possibilities of what might happen next and no following book as far as I can tell so that is disappointing but really where could it go from there who knows
September 6, 2019
This would have been more enjoyable had I realized that it was book #2 in a trilogy! I have no desire to read the others in this series. Just mediocre for me.
December 18, 2019
Page-turner!
Page-Turner! Once I started this series, I couldn't put it down. Highly recommended for Locke/Bunn fans. Thought-provoking with excellent character-building.
Page-Turner! Once I started this series, I couldn't put it down. Highly recommended for Locke/Bunn fans. Thought-provoking with excellent character-building.
May 18, 2020
Left you hanging and he hasn't wrote another book in this series since 2016.😠
March 4, 2022
The story jumps around too much making it hard to follow
November 30, 2022
I don’t like ‘out of this world’ books.
September 28, 2016
This is a refreshing cool of red bull everyone - you take one swig and you are like - POW - man this could be for real - you open the book and it is like it reaches out of the book and grabs you by the collar and pulls you right on in and you do not even know if you can handle the ride but you are on the ride with one eye open. This book is incredibly dynamic. The characters - well you have clear good ones and clear bad ones no in between. You are amazed that this all comes out of one mans mind - it is mind bending, shocking, nonconventional, and I guarantee you, you wont feel happy-go-lucky when you are done, you feel a little upset when it is over, because it is over - then you find out there is another one on the way and you are not so upset - good news for those who don't know - there is a book prior to this one - to this one - so get that one first - this is a story about is basically a fight between good and evil - repayment for what has happened in the past. Also it is about using science for mind control/out of body experience (new ageism). This book starts where Trial Run ends, but it can also stand alone - and it is well worth it - either way - AWESOME - Please do yourself a favor - Go Buy. I received a copy of this book to read and give and honest review
August 2, 2016
A truly unique and thrilling sci-fi read!
Because I previously read Thomas Locke’s Merchant of Alyss, I was under the impression that Locke was a fantasy author. So, I didn’t know what to expect when I found out that Flash Point did not fit that same mold. However, I’m happy to report that Flash Point was every bit as engaging as his fantasy series. The setting may be the world we know, but Locke still succeeds in transporting us to a different world. And once again, I believe the characters are the strongest component of the story.
Flash Point is the second book in the Fault Lines series. And while I had no trouble following along with this as my entry point, I definitely think it is beneficial to read the first book in the series, Trial Run. Flash Point jumps straight into its sci-fi concept by introducing you to Lena Fennan, a risk-manager working for a bank, who hears a voice from the future tell her about a life-changing investment. Lena begins her journey by trying to make this investment happen, but she soon discovers that this voice has bigger plans for her life. On the flip side of things, we meet Reese Clawson, the main character of the previous book. Reese has spent the last several months in prison, but when a mysterious woman offers her the opportunity for freedom (and potentially revenge), she jumps at the chance, no matter what they have planned for her. We follow Reese as she tries to gain the upper hand on her new employers. Both characters are introduced to a new technology that allows people to “ascend,” in which a person leaves their physical body and can collect information from a different plane of existence. Much of the conflict and character motivations have a lot to do with the implications of this technologies existence. And Locke paints a vivid picture of the characters’ ascension experiences.
As for other strengths, the characters are well written, especially Reese who is smart and doesn’t take crap from anyone. Lena also grows from someone just along for this crazy ride, so a woman of action. The supporting characters are also very unique and interesting. You never quite know what to expect of them, or which characters are really pulling the strings. I also enjoyed reading from different perspectives. Locke makes it clear that these characters are going to collide at some point, and I was on the edge of my seat anticipating when and how it would happen. It was also interesting to see how the different main characters viewed the supporting characters.
However, there were a few weaknesses too. There was a lot of building up throughout the story. And while there was a final climactic conflict, there was a lot more I was hoping to see get resolved.
But, it will probably be addressed in the next book. Also, there were a few moments where characters had a revelation that seemed like a huge logical leap. That may have been done to show the brilliant minds of the characters, but it would’ve been nice to have a little more explanation in their though processes. All in all, these are minor issues that didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of the story, but they do stop it from being phenomenal.
Overall, I would recommend this to any fan of sci-fi or thrillers. I give it a 4/5.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
Because I previously read Thomas Locke’s Merchant of Alyss, I was under the impression that Locke was a fantasy author. So, I didn’t know what to expect when I found out that Flash Point did not fit that same mold. However, I’m happy to report that Flash Point was every bit as engaging as his fantasy series. The setting may be the world we know, but Locke still succeeds in transporting us to a different world. And once again, I believe the characters are the strongest component of the story.
Flash Point is the second book in the Fault Lines series. And while I had no trouble following along with this as my entry point, I definitely think it is beneficial to read the first book in the series, Trial Run. Flash Point jumps straight into its sci-fi concept by introducing you to Lena Fennan, a risk-manager working for a bank, who hears a voice from the future tell her about a life-changing investment. Lena begins her journey by trying to make this investment happen, but she soon discovers that this voice has bigger plans for her life. On the flip side of things, we meet Reese Clawson, the main character of the previous book. Reese has spent the last several months in prison, but when a mysterious woman offers her the opportunity for freedom (and potentially revenge), she jumps at the chance, no matter what they have planned for her. We follow Reese as she tries to gain the upper hand on her new employers. Both characters are introduced to a new technology that allows people to “ascend,” in which a person leaves their physical body and can collect information from a different plane of existence. Much of the conflict and character motivations have a lot to do with the implications of this technologies existence. And Locke paints a vivid picture of the characters’ ascension experiences.
As for other strengths, the characters are well written, especially Reese who is smart and doesn’t take crap from anyone. Lena also grows from someone just along for this crazy ride, so a woman of action. The supporting characters are also very unique and interesting. You never quite know what to expect of them, or which characters are really pulling the strings. I also enjoyed reading from different perspectives. Locke makes it clear that these characters are going to collide at some point, and I was on the edge of my seat anticipating when and how it would happen. It was also interesting to see how the different main characters viewed the supporting characters.
However, there were a few weaknesses too. There was a lot of building up throughout the story. And while there was a final climactic conflict, there was a lot more I was hoping to see get resolved.
But, it will probably be addressed in the next book. Also, there were a few moments where characters had a revelation that seemed like a huge logical leap. That may have been done to show the brilliant minds of the characters, but it would’ve been nice to have a little more explanation in their though processes. All in all, these are minor issues that didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of the story, but they do stop it from being phenomenal.
Overall, I would recommend this to any fan of sci-fi or thrillers. I give it a 4/5.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2016
Have you ever had a dream where you were just flying across the sky, unhindered by anything physical? Well, ok, so maybe I am the only one who has ever had a dream like that. That’s sort of what I imagine the characters in Thomas Locke’s newest work Flash Point experience when they “ascend”. Only they are not even limited by time and space in their journey.
Flash Point continues the story from Trial Run which was published last year but you don’t have to have read that book in order to enjoy the new one. Enough of the back story is included so that the reader will not be lost as to why the characters are important in the current volume. But for those who read the first installment in the series, you’ll recognize several prominent characters. Brett Riffkind, Charlie Hazard, and Reese Clawson are all intertwined again in the drama and espionage that unfold in this story. We are also introduced to some new characters with the lead being Lena Fennan who is drawn into a series of events that change her world forever.
The pace of the story is fast. The reader is drawn into the next chapter naturally and most will find it hard to put the book down or to stop swiping the page of your kindle reader once you meet Lena in her New York City cubicle. The settings are realistic and as usual well described so that you can see the action as it is happening. There is intrigue, romance, tension, danger, sadness, and joy to be found in the reading of Flash Point. It has all the marks of a great science fiction work but maintains the tether to the real world enough that you start to believe this thing just might exist in some lab somewhere.
I really enjoyed reading this volume in the series. I hope there is more to come. I can’t wait to see where the story leads next as the possibilities are truly endless. What would you do if you had access to any information and I do mean any from the future or the past or the present? That’s the ethical question that the characters face in this series. As the series moves forward, where will they end up. If only we had one of the nets for real we could already know!
I give this book a five star rating. It’s entertaining, engaging, and is well written as usual. The characters are realistically portrayed as are the settings for the action. The technology is probable and the use is definitely believable if it were real. This series will make a great movie plot someday.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
About Thomas Locke
Thomas Locke is an award-winning novelist with total worldwide sales of seven million copies.
His work has been published in twenty languages, and critical acclaim includes four Christy Awards for excellence in fiction and his 2014 induction into the Christy Hall of Fame.
Thomas divides his time between Florida and England, where he serves as Writer In Residence at Regent’s Park College at The University of Oxford. Visit Thomas at http://tlocke.com.
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August 2, 2016
As I stated in my first review of the books from this series, Fault Lines, this book in not in my usual wheelhouse of books I would choose for reading. I don't usually like physiological thrillers, but I give these a chance because they are by a favorite author. I liked this one more than the first one, and got interested faster, because I already knew some of the characters from the last book. That made it a lot less confusing than the last one, also.
You definitely get into the book and root for the “good guys” to win the battle over evil and the ones on the side of evil. The characters make the science in the book manageable. The characters and their stories, even the minor characters are wonderful. The good guys that is. The bad guys you just love to hate. The characters are fully developed and they could be friends of mine. You really get to know and care about each of the guys on the good side, root for them, and are concerned when evil surrounds them and tries to hurt them.
The premise of making the last living days of someone with terminal illness painless and happy are interesting and hopeful. Helping them to ascend to see the afterlife helps them not fear death. I have that already, due to my personal relationship with my Lord and Savior. I don't need to see heaven to believe it is there waiting for me. Using the dying patients own brain to render them pain free, without drugs or side effects, would be wonderful; if it was truly scientifically possible.
Using the same ascending technology to spy on companies and undermine them and control the world is definitely something I could see happening. Technology created and meant for good is often twisted and used for evil by others. It is the heart of the person using the technology and their motives that matter. The technology is not at fault, it is just a thing.
The struggle of good vs. evil is something we all face every day. Not in so dramatic a way as the characters in this book, but we do. I battle my own sin and my desire for personal gain and recognition. I try to follow God, humble myself, be kind to others and let God lift me up when and if and in what ways he sees fit. But, my flesh battles against that and sometimes wants to be mean to someone and desires retribution (instead of letting God battle for me), and my pride wants recognition for jobs I feel are well done.
I finished the book with two questions. Will there be a third book in the series? Locke seems to have made it apparent that there will be due to the way the book ended. AND... Who or what are the monsters from the “other world?” Are they supposed to represent anything we would know? Like demons? Or are they just fantasy? They are definitely evil, that is for sure. They were creepy and scary.
The book is definitely a page turner and the characters and plot drive you to keep reading. You must see how it ends and if the good guys win out.
Unlike most book I read I have no quote to share. There was no one part that hit me and made me mark it for sharing. The whole thing was just really good.
You definitely get into the book and root for the “good guys” to win the battle over evil and the ones on the side of evil. The characters make the science in the book manageable. The characters and their stories, even the minor characters are wonderful. The good guys that is. The bad guys you just love to hate. The characters are fully developed and they could be friends of mine. You really get to know and care about each of the guys on the good side, root for them, and are concerned when evil surrounds them and tries to hurt them.
The premise of making the last living days of someone with terminal illness painless and happy are interesting and hopeful. Helping them to ascend to see the afterlife helps them not fear death. I have that already, due to my personal relationship with my Lord and Savior. I don't need to see heaven to believe it is there waiting for me. Using the dying patients own brain to render them pain free, without drugs or side effects, would be wonderful; if it was truly scientifically possible.
Using the same ascending technology to spy on companies and undermine them and control the world is definitely something I could see happening. Technology created and meant for good is often twisted and used for evil by others. It is the heart of the person using the technology and their motives that matter. The technology is not at fault, it is just a thing.
The struggle of good vs. evil is something we all face every day. Not in so dramatic a way as the characters in this book, but we do. I battle my own sin and my desire for personal gain and recognition. I try to follow God, humble myself, be kind to others and let God lift me up when and if and in what ways he sees fit. But, my flesh battles against that and sometimes wants to be mean to someone and desires retribution (instead of letting God battle for me), and my pride wants recognition for jobs I feel are well done.
I finished the book with two questions. Will there be a third book in the series? Locke seems to have made it apparent that there will be due to the way the book ended. AND... Who or what are the monsters from the “other world?” Are they supposed to represent anything we would know? Like demons? Or are they just fantasy? They are definitely evil, that is for sure. They were creepy and scary.
The book is definitely a page turner and the characters and plot drive you to keep reading. You must see how it ends and if the good guys win out.
Unlike most book I read I have no quote to share. There was no one part that hit me and made me mark it for sharing. The whole thing was just really good.
August 10, 2016
Wow wow wow and wow! Flash Point definitely qualifies as a five star technothriller. Brilliant! It is filled with mind-blowing science combined with fast paced action. Flash Point is a book that you won’t want to put down.
Thomas Locke is a master at creating characters that are completely fleshed out. He has a way of bringing out genuine emotions and responses towards his characters. One of the primary characters named Reese Clawson is my favorite. You will also find her in Trial Run, book one of the Fault Lines series. Reese is most definitely not good but I can’t help myself. I like her. I want her to want to change and stop fighting that which is good and use her incredible mind and skills to help annihilate those that she has been basically forced to serve. Maybe that will happen in book three. I would love that!
The science that is Flash Point is neurobiology meets quantum physics. Cranial mapping and deep-brain stimulation. At it’s very best, the elimination of pain. I'll take the migraine cure please (they are the bane of my existence). The science is well presented and understandable.
Unfortunately the incredible gains that can be achieved through scientific and medical advancement are often exploited.
“Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former.”
Albert Einstein
“The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.” Isaac Asimov
Locke shares the gains but the tension and thrill of the story is based upon the exploitation of those breakthroughs. In many ways Locke is applying Newton’s Third Law to motivation as opposed to motion.
Why do I love Flash Point and why do I recommend that you read it and for that matter any and all of the books written by Davis Bunn under his own name or under his pseudonym Thomas Locke? Because…
1. His books are so very very good in so many many ways. He is brilliant, a master. Not many authors can write authoritatively, with such tension, beautifully, (insert any positive adjective here) in so many different genres.
2. There is absolutely no moral compromise required.
Hopefully I have intrigued you and that you will be heading off to your nearest library or bookstore to pick up a copy. If so, be sure and read the free prequel Double Edge and the first book in the series Trial Run before picking up Flash Point. You could read Flash Point as a stand-alone but you would miss so much. Things that shouldn’t be missed because they are just that good! Enjoy!
I received a review copy in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. My thanks to the author and publisher.
For all of my reviews visit Blessed and BewilderedBlessed and Bewildered
Thomas Locke is a master at creating characters that are completely fleshed out. He has a way of bringing out genuine emotions and responses towards his characters. One of the primary characters named Reese Clawson is my favorite. You will also find her in Trial Run, book one of the Fault Lines series. Reese is most definitely not good but I can’t help myself. I like her. I want her to want to change and stop fighting that which is good and use her incredible mind and skills to help annihilate those that she has been basically forced to serve. Maybe that will happen in book three. I would love that!
The science that is Flash Point is neurobiology meets quantum physics. Cranial mapping and deep-brain stimulation. At it’s very best, the elimination of pain. I'll take the migraine cure please (they are the bane of my existence). The science is well presented and understandable.
Unfortunately the incredible gains that can be achieved through scientific and medical advancement are often exploited.
“Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former.”
Albert Einstein
“The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.” Isaac Asimov
Locke shares the gains but the tension and thrill of the story is based upon the exploitation of those breakthroughs. In many ways Locke is applying Newton’s Third Law to motivation as opposed to motion.
Why do I love Flash Point and why do I recommend that you read it and for that matter any and all of the books written by Davis Bunn under his own name or under his pseudonym Thomas Locke? Because…
1. His books are so very very good in so many many ways. He is brilliant, a master. Not many authors can write authoritatively, with such tension, beautifully, (insert any positive adjective here) in so many different genres.
2. There is absolutely no moral compromise required.
Hopefully I have intrigued you and that you will be heading off to your nearest library or bookstore to pick up a copy. If so, be sure and read the free prequel Double Edge and the first book in the series Trial Run before picking up Flash Point. You could read Flash Point as a stand-alone but you would miss so much. Things that shouldn’t be missed because they are just that good! Enjoy!
I received a review copy in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. My thanks to the author and publisher.
For all of my reviews visit Blessed and BewilderedBlessed and Bewildered
August 2, 2016
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, flash point is “a point, place, or situation in which sudden anger or violence could happen; a point at which someone or something bursts suddenly into action or being. That being the case, Flash Point, the latest offering in the Fault Lines series by Thomas Locke, has been well named.
There are essentially three story lines being told that you can sense will eventually converge into a final eruption, and boy, do they. In addition to returning characters that were introduced in the first book, Trial Run, which I highly recommend you read in order to understand exactly what’s going on, there are several new characters that come on the scene whose lives will intersect with a select few of the original characters. In some cases new friendships will be forged, in others, old rivalries will be revisited and revenge will be the order of the day.
What one man creates to better the lives of others, another man will exploit and use for his own personal gain, usually to the detriment of others. Herein lies the main plot of the Fault Lines series. Two groups of scientists/researchers have the same technology, or elements thereof, at their disposal. This technology was used in Trial Run by the original developer, Dr. Speciale, and her group with good intentions. It was also studied by another group to be used for the opposite reason, i.e. spying for personal gain. The technology is expanded upon in Flash Point and we are given insight into how it can be used to better the lives of various people, those in pain for example, or as a weapon used with the intent to kill by those who are on the wrong side of law and order. The former reason for using the technology is heartening, the latter reason is extremely scary.
While the whole concept of moving through time without being seen by those around us is both intriguing as well as mind boggling, I hope it is just a figment of the author’s wonderful imagination and never actually comes to pass. Although, given the opportunity to go back and fix some mistakes or make different and better choices, without permanent physical damage mind, I can safely say I would do it in a heartbeat, or less.
For those who homeschool high school students, I could easily see this series used as a unit study to stimulate interest and studies in various areas of math and science. These studies would create some very deep discussions regarding quantum theory, the ethics behind aiding others in dying, philosophy, etc.
While I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review, I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend this second book in the Fault Lines series and anxiously await the next addition.
There are essentially three story lines being told that you can sense will eventually converge into a final eruption, and boy, do they. In addition to returning characters that were introduced in the first book, Trial Run, which I highly recommend you read in order to understand exactly what’s going on, there are several new characters that come on the scene whose lives will intersect with a select few of the original characters. In some cases new friendships will be forged, in others, old rivalries will be revisited and revenge will be the order of the day.
What one man creates to better the lives of others, another man will exploit and use for his own personal gain, usually to the detriment of others. Herein lies the main plot of the Fault Lines series. Two groups of scientists/researchers have the same technology, or elements thereof, at their disposal. This technology was used in Trial Run by the original developer, Dr. Speciale, and her group with good intentions. It was also studied by another group to be used for the opposite reason, i.e. spying for personal gain. The technology is expanded upon in Flash Point and we are given insight into how it can be used to better the lives of various people, those in pain for example, or as a weapon used with the intent to kill by those who are on the wrong side of law and order. The former reason for using the technology is heartening, the latter reason is extremely scary.
While the whole concept of moving through time without being seen by those around us is both intriguing as well as mind boggling, I hope it is just a figment of the author’s wonderful imagination and never actually comes to pass. Although, given the opportunity to go back and fix some mistakes or make different and better choices, without permanent physical damage mind, I can safely say I would do it in a heartbeat, or less.
For those who homeschool high school students, I could easily see this series used as a unit study to stimulate interest and studies in various areas of math and science. These studies would create some very deep discussions regarding quantum theory, the ethics behind aiding others in dying, philosophy, etc.
While I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review, I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend this second book in the Fault Lines series and anxiously await the next addition.
August 17, 2016
Thomas Locke has a gift for making readers care what happens to his characters, even if they don’t understand what that is at first. Flash Point, book 2 in the Fault Lines trilogy, is billed as a “techno-thriller” and I can attest to that “thriller” billing! I was gripped from the outset and my mind took some time to wrap around the concepts presented. I was impressed with the science and the terminology Locke used to convey the possibilities his characters are pursuing. Everything, and I mean everything, seemed like a genuine probability at some point in the future.
Lena Fennan is working as a junior analyst at First American Bank on Wall Street. While her main goal in life was to get to Wall Street, it hasn’t been as exciting as she thought it would be. Her boss, Wesley the Weasel, delights in working his junior analysts like slaves and takes credit for any work they do. When Lena’s future self appears to her and urges her to pursue an investment proposal, Lena thinks she’s finally going stir crazy from all the office hours she puts in. But when she follows through and succeeds in a spectacular way, can she continue the status quo? What happens when that same voice asks something even crazier from her? Can she trust herself and her reputation in the business world to a voice from beyond?
The battle between good and evil is fought on both the physical and temporal planes. Dr. Brett Riffkind uses technology to alleviate suffering for the terminally ill but that same technology is used for evil purposes, unleashing demons into the physical world. Reese Clawson is broken out of prison because of her knowledge of this technology and she quickly realizes the potential for the criminal element. In the conflict between the good that Brett does with the technology and the evil that Reese leads, which will win and will everyone survive the clash?
First off, let me say that I did not read Trial Run before I read Flash Point but I wish I had. It took me longer than it should have to understand what was happening in the story. I would definitely recommend reading book 1 before tackling Flash Point. That said I still found myself totally engrossed in the storylines. I especially enjoyed the scene with Lena and her lawyer, Don, taking on the executives at First American and their legal team. You don’t want to miss it!
If you love science fiction or techno-thrillers or suspense books, pick up Flash Point. It has enough believable science to make you question if the story is really a true-life drama that’s being hidden from mere mortals. The bending of time and space and the physical realm happens in a way that makes it look like it really could happen. I’ll be picking up book 1 (It’s on sale through the end of August!) to see what I missed!
Lena Fennan is working as a junior analyst at First American Bank on Wall Street. While her main goal in life was to get to Wall Street, it hasn’t been as exciting as she thought it would be. Her boss, Wesley the Weasel, delights in working his junior analysts like slaves and takes credit for any work they do. When Lena’s future self appears to her and urges her to pursue an investment proposal, Lena thinks she’s finally going stir crazy from all the office hours she puts in. But when she follows through and succeeds in a spectacular way, can she continue the status quo? What happens when that same voice asks something even crazier from her? Can she trust herself and her reputation in the business world to a voice from beyond?
The battle between good and evil is fought on both the physical and temporal planes. Dr. Brett Riffkind uses technology to alleviate suffering for the terminally ill but that same technology is used for evil purposes, unleashing demons into the physical world. Reese Clawson is broken out of prison because of her knowledge of this technology and she quickly realizes the potential for the criminal element. In the conflict between the good that Brett does with the technology and the evil that Reese leads, which will win and will everyone survive the clash?
First off, let me say that I did not read Trial Run before I read Flash Point but I wish I had. It took me longer than it should have to understand what was happening in the story. I would definitely recommend reading book 1 before tackling Flash Point. That said I still found myself totally engrossed in the storylines. I especially enjoyed the scene with Lena and her lawyer, Don, taking on the executives at First American and their legal team. You don’t want to miss it!
If you love science fiction or techno-thrillers or suspense books, pick up Flash Point. It has enough believable science to make you question if the story is really a true-life drama that’s being hidden from mere mortals. The bending of time and space and the physical realm happens in a way that makes it look like it really could happen. I’ll be picking up book 1 (It’s on sale through the end of August!) to see what I missed!
August 4, 2016
New characters, past characters, and one awesome story make up the next installment in the Fault Lines series!
Lena Fennan is a junior analyst working like a slave at a Wall Street bank trying to make it to the next level. One day she hears a voice from her future self tell her how to obtain $3.1 million in order to set up a new financial institution in the State of Colorado in order to become the first financial institution in order to serve the legalized marijuana trade. With the success of the acquisitions comes the accusations from her firm that she had no right within her contract to do so, but she still ends up with another project described from her future self. But how can she keep this going?
Reese Clawson has suffered the worst fourteen months of her life being incarcerated. Then someone pulls some strings and she is suddenly back on the outside working for a group of unknown people. She succeeds at every challenge they throw her way and eventually they pair her back up with her former partner Kevin Handley. Can she figure out what is going on? And if so, how will her new work collide with Lena’s new project.
Flash Point rapidly throws you back into the action where Trial Run left off. The story begins with a new character that readers will quickly identify with. Shortly thereafter, Brett Rifkind is reintroduced in a new manner with a new mission. Then Reese Clawson suddenly reappears and everything is back in business. This series is so exciting and literally all over the map that it is hard to generate a synopsis for readers. If you haven’t read the first one, I highly suggest that you do so that you can create the setting and gain an understanding for what is going on in this crazy world.
For a futuristic thriller, this is really different. It doesn’t deal with dystopia as several current YA novels are doing. Instead it is set in present day with scientific advances in neuroscience. There is quite a bit of jargon in the book, but it doesn’t take the reader away from the story. It adds quite a bit of credibility to it overall.
If you are a fan of Thomas Locke (or Davis Bunn) check out this series. You’ll be glad you found a new read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for a honest and thorough review. The views and opinions expressed herein are my own.
Lena Fennan is a junior analyst working like a slave at a Wall Street bank trying to make it to the next level. One day she hears a voice from her future self tell her how to obtain $3.1 million in order to set up a new financial institution in the State of Colorado in order to become the first financial institution in order to serve the legalized marijuana trade. With the success of the acquisitions comes the accusations from her firm that she had no right within her contract to do so, but she still ends up with another project described from her future self. But how can she keep this going?
Reese Clawson has suffered the worst fourteen months of her life being incarcerated. Then someone pulls some strings and she is suddenly back on the outside working for a group of unknown people. She succeeds at every challenge they throw her way and eventually they pair her back up with her former partner Kevin Handley. Can she figure out what is going on? And if so, how will her new work collide with Lena’s new project.
Flash Point rapidly throws you back into the action where Trial Run left off. The story begins with a new character that readers will quickly identify with. Shortly thereafter, Brett Rifkind is reintroduced in a new manner with a new mission. Then Reese Clawson suddenly reappears and everything is back in business. This series is so exciting and literally all over the map that it is hard to generate a synopsis for readers. If you haven’t read the first one, I highly suggest that you do so that you can create the setting and gain an understanding for what is going on in this crazy world.
For a futuristic thriller, this is really different. It doesn’t deal with dystopia as several current YA novels are doing. Instead it is set in present day with scientific advances in neuroscience. There is quite a bit of jargon in the book, but it doesn’t take the reader away from the story. It adds quite a bit of credibility to it overall.
If you are a fan of Thomas Locke (or Davis Bunn) check out this series. You’ll be glad you found a new read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for a honest and thorough review. The views and opinions expressed herein are my own.
October 13, 2016
If Thomas Locke is going to continue offering up books like this one, I may be in trouble. The moment I cracked open the cover of "Flash Point" I was swept up into this action-packed, thrilling story and I found it impossible to walk away until I came to the final chapter. Although I loved the first book in the series, "Trial Run", this second instalment seems to ramp up the thrills even more. Quite amazingly, although this is an epic battle between good and evil, I found myself feeling utter sympathy for Reese (not on the team I would typically cheer for), such that my loyalties between characters were blurred much more than with Trial Run. Locke has done a fantastic job at fleshing out the characters, and yet he does so in a way that doesn't detract from the pacing of the book in any way. The concept of Lena's journey is particularly fascinating, as she encounters a voice that gives direction that is utterly life changing to her. I don't want to reveal the origin of the voice, but let me tell you that it is quite a twist in the story! Although the story is not overtly Christian per se, both Reese and her team and Lena and her group encounter beings from beyond the veil that clearly point to demonic beings. Indeed, "Fault Lines" raises interesting possibilities of what people would encounter if they transcended time and space, and how God and angels and demons would fit into that reality.
At the end of the novel, things collide in a heart-stopping manner, and I am left eager to find out what the future holds for the various factions who are pushing the boundaries of good and evil, of what is real and of what isn't. Trial Run already introduced readers to a whole new type of fiction, and Flash Point succeeds at taking those concepts even further, in a way that makes for riveting reading.
If you loved Trial Run, you are going to greatly enjoy "Flash Point". And if you haven't yet read a Fault Lines novel, then what on earth are you waiting for? Make sure you add this one to your reading list! I award this book a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
At the end of the novel, things collide in a heart-stopping manner, and I am left eager to find out what the future holds for the various factions who are pushing the boundaries of good and evil, of what is real and of what isn't. Trial Run already introduced readers to a whole new type of fiction, and Flash Point succeeds at taking those concepts even further, in a way that makes for riveting reading.
If you loved Trial Run, you are going to greatly enjoy "Flash Point". And if you haven't yet read a Fault Lines novel, then what on earth are you waiting for? Make sure you add this one to your reading list! I award this book a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
July 24, 2016
I THINK I’M STILL HOLDING MY BREATH! AMAZING!
I have been a fan of this author for a very long time, but I have to say that with this series (Trial Run and now Flash Point), Thomas Locke has moved up to another level in the reactions he elicits from me while reading. Like the first book in the series this was a complex, detailed, but razor sharp story – the characters were so well written that I forget they were fiction, and there was nothing to distract me from the roller-coaster ride and tension of the story itself. I have never before found myself shaking my e-reader because it refused to turn the page without spending an annoying amount of time uploading! I didn’t want to see the little arrow whirling around – I wanted to know what was happening, in case I missed something while I was waiting – that’s how real it felt. Once again Thomas Locke has managed to fuse current cutting edge science with futuristic speculation without making it seem like informational overload, but weaving it seamlessly into the story. I am wondering if he doesn’t perhaps have a neural net somewhere that he is secretly using to ‘ascend’ and peer into the future. I think, if I have to say why this book is such a great read, I would have to say that the characters are so well drawn that they feel like real people only you have access to the inner workings of their minds and hearts as well. There wasn’t one card-board cut out or stereotype among them. Even the ‘villains’ (the ones we met first in Trial Run at least) were much more human than just being ‘the bad guys’ leaving you at least understanding their motivation, and wondering about their future too. I can’t wait to see what will happen next, although perhaps it's a good thing that I will have to wait a while – get my heart rate back down to normal! By the way, you don’t have to have read Trial Run first – although it helps, but this story sucks you right in on its own. Thanks once again for a great read, and thanks to Revell from whom I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I have been a fan of this author for a very long time, but I have to say that with this series (Trial Run and now Flash Point), Thomas Locke has moved up to another level in the reactions he elicits from me while reading. Like the first book in the series this was a complex, detailed, but razor sharp story – the characters were so well written that I forget they were fiction, and there was nothing to distract me from the roller-coaster ride and tension of the story itself. I have never before found myself shaking my e-reader because it refused to turn the page without spending an annoying amount of time uploading! I didn’t want to see the little arrow whirling around – I wanted to know what was happening, in case I missed something while I was waiting – that’s how real it felt. Once again Thomas Locke has managed to fuse current cutting edge science with futuristic speculation without making it seem like informational overload, but weaving it seamlessly into the story. I am wondering if he doesn’t perhaps have a neural net somewhere that he is secretly using to ‘ascend’ and peer into the future. I think, if I have to say why this book is such a great read, I would have to say that the characters are so well drawn that they feel like real people only you have access to the inner workings of their minds and hearts as well. There wasn’t one card-board cut out or stereotype among them. Even the ‘villains’ (the ones we met first in Trial Run at least) were much more human than just being ‘the bad guys’ leaving you at least understanding their motivation, and wondering about their future too. I can’t wait to see what will happen next, although perhaps it's a good thing that I will have to wait a while – get my heart rate back down to normal! By the way, you don’t have to have read Trial Run first – although it helps, but this story sucks you right in on its own. Thanks once again for a great read, and thanks to Revell from whom I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 2, 2016
It takes less than 75 seconds to get caught up in a Thomas Locke novel. Okay, the numbers are totally nonscientific, but the point is, he is that good.
It helps to be a fan of techno thrillers when reading the latest installment of the Fault Lines series. It also doesn’t hurt to have read Double Edged and Trial Run, or to have the ability to suspend belief in fantastic, wondrous occurrences.
Combining science, finance and suspense in exciting ways, we continue with transit visits (dream walking while awake), shadowy government characters and heroes that rise out of obscurity to follow the leading of an inner voice. In the process, they help make the world a safer place.
This time, the unseen powers have pitted Lena Fennan, a lowly junior financial analyst, against Reese Clawson, the comeback villainess from Trial Run. Mysteriously released after spending 14 months in prison, Reese and her team once again seek to wreak havoc, this time on old adversaries. Reese is persistent, ambitious, and cold-hearted. I don’t like her, but I like how she’s written.
It is a continuation, so characters from the earlier stories make their appearance. It comes together with a series of explosive elements, and it is a totally rocking ride. Is there a spiritual element? Absolutely, but not in a traditional “Christian fiction” manner. Instead, you’re provoked to self-examination and, I think, even encouraged to believe that impossibly great things happen to people that embrace their destiny.
But there will be no spoilers here; just a few choice words to encourage you to read the book. I’m already looking forward to the next installment.
I received a complimentary advanced reader’s copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
It helps to be a fan of techno thrillers when reading the latest installment of the Fault Lines series. It also doesn’t hurt to have read Double Edged and Trial Run, or to have the ability to suspend belief in fantastic, wondrous occurrences.
Combining science, finance and suspense in exciting ways, we continue with transit visits (dream walking while awake), shadowy government characters and heroes that rise out of obscurity to follow the leading of an inner voice. In the process, they help make the world a safer place.
This time, the unseen powers have pitted Lena Fennan, a lowly junior financial analyst, against Reese Clawson, the comeback villainess from Trial Run. Mysteriously released after spending 14 months in prison, Reese and her team once again seek to wreak havoc, this time on old adversaries. Reese is persistent, ambitious, and cold-hearted. I don’t like her, but I like how she’s written.
It is a continuation, so characters from the earlier stories make their appearance. It comes together with a series of explosive elements, and it is a totally rocking ride. Is there a spiritual element? Absolutely, but not in a traditional “Christian fiction” manner. Instead, you’re provoked to self-examination and, I think, even encouraged to believe that impossibly great things happen to people that embrace their destiny.
But there will be no spoilers here; just a few choice words to encourage you to read the book. I’m already looking forward to the next installment.
I received a complimentary advanced reader’s copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2016
Flash Point is the 2nd book in the Fault Lines adventures. I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. That is so easy to do with Thomas Locke's books. The sci-fi books are not my normal reading material but when I get asked to read one from Thomas Locke, I really get happy. I love to read and for a book to hold me the way his do, is just right down my alley. The book starts out with Lena Fennan going on vacation without asking her supervisor, whom is a total jerk. She peruses a chance to make millions. An opportunity for her company that she as an analyst presented to them to pursue. This chance was turned down by her supervisor who she and, her co-worker and friend, Robin have dubbed as "Weasel" She presents this opportunity to 3 business people that are struggling and a lawyer that is being set aside by his company and it pays off. The book was a little confusing at first till I realized that the characters were in two or three separate areas in their lives. About mid way in, as Lena's 2nd venture the characters started coming together and the story line was much easier to follow and very exciting. At this point I could not put the book down. I read it on my kindle so I have either my phone or my kindle with me at all time so even on the toilet I can read a page or two. The sci fi comes in more in the middle and the end of the book keeps you glued to it. I don't even know how to wait for the next book because this one seemed to end to abruptly with things between Lena and Brett. There are like time zones that they leave their bodies and purse the evil that seeks to destroy them. Evil against good. The confrontation at the end of the book is awesome, who will die, who will win, who will sacrifice. Good against evil A book I will most defiantly recommend and watch breathlessly for a sequel.
August 4, 2016
Flash Point is a combustible thriller that explores the realm of the possible and (hopefully) impossible use of Science and technology for the greater good and/or the depths of evil. There are three storylines that open Flash Point and eventually combine to an explosive ending.
First we meet Lena Fennan, a financial analyst in a drudge job where her work is exploited by others for their profit. She receives a message from a ‘voice from beyond’ that will change the course of her fortunes and her life. Next Brett Riffkind,a neuroscientist that was involved with the first team and is now paying penance for selling out by using what he learned to help dying patients ascend without fear and pain. Third is Reece Clawson, who is mysteriously released from prison to go back to work with a team who is continuing the work began in Trial Run, a neural industrial espionage of sorts.
Because this book is a sequel to Trial Run, it is mostly necessary for the reader to have read the first book before attempting Flash Point. It is helpful to know the basic technical information and background provided by the first book. A few of the main characters in the first book are also key players in this book. You might even come across some gnarly science-fiction type beasts (or are they?).
As with Trial Run, the reader must suspend belief and just go with the story, keep reading. Diligence is needed to get into the story but persistence pays off as the three groups meld into the final outcome.
I won’t say I enjoyed the book, as Techno- thrillers are not my chosen genre, but I did enjoy the story. The book does allude to a further excursion into this story and I am prepared to read it as well, when it comes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
First we meet Lena Fennan, a financial analyst in a drudge job where her work is exploited by others for their profit. She receives a message from a ‘voice from beyond’ that will change the course of her fortunes and her life. Next Brett Riffkind,a neuroscientist that was involved with the first team and is now paying penance for selling out by using what he learned to help dying patients ascend without fear and pain. Third is Reece Clawson, who is mysteriously released from prison to go back to work with a team who is continuing the work began in Trial Run, a neural industrial espionage of sorts.
Because this book is a sequel to Trial Run, it is mostly necessary for the reader to have read the first book before attempting Flash Point. It is helpful to know the basic technical information and background provided by the first book. A few of the main characters in the first book are also key players in this book. You might even come across some gnarly science-fiction type beasts (or are they?).
As with Trial Run, the reader must suspend belief and just go with the story, keep reading. Diligence is needed to get into the story but persistence pays off as the three groups meld into the final outcome.
I won’t say I enjoyed the book, as Techno- thrillers are not my chosen genre, but I did enjoy the story. The book does allude to a further excursion into this story and I am prepared to read it as well, when it comes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2016
Thomas Locke has written the second book in his Fault Lines series, “Flash Point.” If you haven't read the prequel, “Double Edge” (a free e-book), or the first book, “Trial Run,” you need to do so before reading “Flash Point.” There isn't as much of the mind-boggling science in “Flash Point,” and only a few characters carry over from “Trial Run,” but you still need the background to fully appreciate the newest book. There are two sets of main characters as “Flash Point” starts, and you know they're going to cross paths and clash at some point. However, that doesn't happen until half way through the book. Locke is an expert at leaving you on the edge of your seat, wondering what's going to happen next.
The book is well-written and fast paced (I stayed up way too late 2 nights in a row).
In some ways, I didn't like “Flash Point” as well as “Trial Run.” The books are called techno-thrillers, which fits. However, I think “Flash Point” moves more into science fiction than was true for “Trial Run.” Working with characters in different times who interact with each other or themselves is always tricky for an author. Locke does fairly well with it, but I didn't really enjoy it. Also, the delineation between the “good guys” and the “bad guys” isn't as clear in “Flash Point” as it was in “Trial Run.” I would have liked more carry over of characters (especially the good guys) between the two books.
If you like edgy suspense and pushing the envelope technology, you'll really go for this book. There's a few spots of romance included, and the ending leaves you knowing another book must be coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
The book is well-written and fast paced (I stayed up way too late 2 nights in a row).
In some ways, I didn't like “Flash Point” as well as “Trial Run.” The books are called techno-thrillers, which fits. However, I think “Flash Point” moves more into science fiction than was true for “Trial Run.” Working with characters in different times who interact with each other or themselves is always tricky for an author. Locke does fairly well with it, but I didn't really enjoy it. Also, the delineation between the “good guys” and the “bad guys” isn't as clear in “Flash Point” as it was in “Trial Run.” I would have liked more carry over of characters (especially the good guys) between the two books.
If you like edgy suspense and pushing the envelope technology, you'll really go for this book. There's a few spots of romance included, and the ending leaves you knowing another book must be coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
August 11, 2016
Thomas Locke’s best book yet!
Flash Point is an engaging psychological, science fiction thriller guaranteed to keep you reading into the wee hours of the night. In spite of a wide cast of characters, the author does a superb job at keeping each one distinct and firmly ensconced in their own world so there was never any confusion in my mind.
The action was real and intense and I loved experiencing it as if I was entrenched in the story with the characters—which is saying something as at the beginning, there is more than one storyline running at a time. Yet I never had trouble keeping them straight or focusing on one more than another.
Flash Point is not the first book I’ve read by this author. Between the titles written under this pseudonym and his more established name (Davis Bunn), I probably have read at least a half-dozen titles. While I’ve always found the writing to be solid, I’ve not enjoyed any of his books nearly as much as this one.
The one thing that annoyed me the most was also probably the thing that kept me reading. The author often leaves thoughts hanging by describing actions while intentionally leaving out the details of exactly *what* is happening. Trying to figure out what the real action was behind the activity made it difficult to put the book down. Just one more page…
If you’re new to the “Fault Lines” series, I recommend you start with Double Edge (the novella ebook), then read Trial Run (book 1) before this one (book 2). Otherwise you’re bound to have many unanswered questions by the time you get to the end of Flash Point.
If you’re a fan of contemporary science fiction that doesn’t focus on post-apocalyptic world order (like so many other science fiction novels have in the past couple of years), I highly recommend Flash Point.
Flash Point is an engaging psychological, science fiction thriller guaranteed to keep you reading into the wee hours of the night. In spite of a wide cast of characters, the author does a superb job at keeping each one distinct and firmly ensconced in their own world so there was never any confusion in my mind.
The action was real and intense and I loved experiencing it as if I was entrenched in the story with the characters—which is saying something as at the beginning, there is more than one storyline running at a time. Yet I never had trouble keeping them straight or focusing on one more than another.
Flash Point is not the first book I’ve read by this author. Between the titles written under this pseudonym and his more established name (Davis Bunn), I probably have read at least a half-dozen titles. While I’ve always found the writing to be solid, I’ve not enjoyed any of his books nearly as much as this one.
The one thing that annoyed me the most was also probably the thing that kept me reading. The author often leaves thoughts hanging by describing actions while intentionally leaving out the details of exactly *what* is happening. Trying to figure out what the real action was behind the activity made it difficult to put the book down. Just one more page…
If you’re new to the “Fault Lines” series, I recommend you start with Double Edge (the novella ebook), then read Trial Run (book 1) before this one (book 2). Otherwise you’re bound to have many unanswered questions by the time you get to the end of Flash Point.
If you’re a fan of contemporary science fiction that doesn’t focus on post-apocalyptic world order (like so many other science fiction novels have in the past couple of years), I highly recommend Flash Point.
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