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Seed
Fifty people go to sleep in their own beds and wake up in a compound in the middle of the jungle. Men and women from all walks of life with only one thing in common—none of them know where they are or how they got there. Alex is a paratrooper. Yael is a mathematician. Max is a law professor. They can’t leave— a lethal barrier surrounds the facility, but no one knows if it’s there to keep them in, or to keep something out.
The compound is comfortable and provides for all of their needs. There’s a warehouse with DNA coded locks. Only Barbara, the doctor, can open a fully stocked operating room, and only Alex can get into an arms room with enough weapons to outfit an infantry platoon. There is enough food and other supplies to last for decades, but nothing to tell them who did this to them or why.
For Alex, it’s an intriguing mystery—anything is better than digging foxholes in the desert—but he and the others don’t realize that time is running out. On the other side of the barrier lies a horror beyond imagination, and the barrier is about to come down.
The compound is comfortable and provides for all of their needs. There’s a warehouse with DNA coded locks. Only Barbara, the doctor, can open a fully stocked operating room, and only Alex can get into an arms room with enough weapons to outfit an infantry platoon. There is enough food and other supplies to last for decades, but nothing to tell them who did this to them or why.
For Alex, it’s an intriguing mystery—anything is better than digging foxholes in the desert—but he and the others don’t realize that time is running out. On the other side of the barrier lies a horror beyond imagination, and the barrier is about to come down.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
September 6, 2017
I kept seeing this book on the recommended part of the Kindle App - and decided to give it a go. I was going to have a hiatus from reading apocalyptic type novels for a while, but the premise sucked me in. Okay, I liked the cover as well.
Alex Meyer, a paratrooper, stationed at FT Irwin, goes to sleep in his barracks and awakens in a place he is unfamiliar with. At first, he thinks he may be in a prison or holding cell, but that can't be right, as the room he is in doesn't look anything like a cell. It's kinda futuristic looking and has a bathroom; so he probably isn't being detained. After having a quick peruse around the place he finds a case underneath his bed, that is DNA coded to him; and only him. Although, he doesn't know that at the time. Inside the case is an assortment of weapons and ammo cases, etcetera. He eventually works out how to get outside and is amazed to see other people and cabins around, just like his. A young woman (Yael) approaches him and gives him grief, as she believes he may be the reason for her being there; as he's wearing army gear and carrying a weapon. This is where he meets Max; a Law Professor - and he gives Alex all the information he currently knows about their situation, which isn't much; except they all went to sleep in their own beds and ended up in this place. Wherever this place is.
Max tells him about a barrier surrounding the complex, that prevents anyone from leaving or going past a certain distance in any direction. They're all trapped. Alex decides to take a stroll to see what the barrier is like - and he starts to get nauseous after a little while, and the more he continues on his current path; the worse he feels, to the point he's going to throw up. So he goes back in the direction he came from - and starts to feel better. When he tries to go back to where he was originally going, he feels sick again: Alex has found the barrier. The further he goes into the barrier field; the deadlier it becomes - and he doesn't know the distance it covers before it becomes safe. At least, not yet.
After meeting more people and looking around the place, Max tells Alex about the warehouse: where there are food supplies and other items they need to survive in their new environment. Max can open most doors in the warehouse except the room that only Alex can open: the armoury, which has an inner door - and this room has every type of weaponry you can imagine.
Anyway, it's not long before they find a way to pass through the barrier; and what they find adds to the mystery.
I really enjoyed this novel. It was full of suspence, mystery, conspiracy, power struggles, conflict, insurrection, and other surprises. When Alex and the other people discovered what had happened to the outside world, the more intriguing it became. The only thing that stopped it from being a five star rating was Alex and his overactive hormones, which kicked in every couple of minutes (slight exaggeration). It was reaching the point where I wished he would go back to his cabin, spend some quality time with himself - and get it out of his system. I was starting to wonder if some funny wit slipped him an aphrodisiac or something. Maybe I'm being a bit harsh, as he's in his mid twenties, but I didn't care for his lascivious thoughts. Every woman he looked at created a stirring in his pants. I'm surprised he didn't get a brick or a mallet to bash himself over the head with: like a cartoon character when they see a beautiful woman.
Still, it's an intriguing story, that has a different take on when an apocalyptic event occurs.
Alex Meyer, a paratrooper, stationed at FT Irwin, goes to sleep in his barracks and awakens in a place he is unfamiliar with. At first, he thinks he may be in a prison or holding cell, but that can't be right, as the room he is in doesn't look anything like a cell. It's kinda futuristic looking and has a bathroom; so he probably isn't being detained. After having a quick peruse around the place he finds a case underneath his bed, that is DNA coded to him; and only him. Although, he doesn't know that at the time. Inside the case is an assortment of weapons and ammo cases, etcetera. He eventually works out how to get outside and is amazed to see other people and cabins around, just like his. A young woman (Yael) approaches him and gives him grief, as she believes he may be the reason for her being there; as he's wearing army gear and carrying a weapon. This is where he meets Max; a Law Professor - and he gives Alex all the information he currently knows about their situation, which isn't much; except they all went to sleep in their own beds and ended up in this place. Wherever this place is.
Max tells him about a barrier surrounding the complex, that prevents anyone from leaving or going past a certain distance in any direction. They're all trapped. Alex decides to take a stroll to see what the barrier is like - and he starts to get nauseous after a little while, and the more he continues on his current path; the worse he feels, to the point he's going to throw up. So he goes back in the direction he came from - and starts to feel better. When he tries to go back to where he was originally going, he feels sick again: Alex has found the barrier. The further he goes into the barrier field; the deadlier it becomes - and he doesn't know the distance it covers before it becomes safe. At least, not yet.
After meeting more people and looking around the place, Max tells Alex about the warehouse: where there are food supplies and other items they need to survive in their new environment. Max can open most doors in the warehouse except the room that only Alex can open: the armoury, which has an inner door - and this room has every type of weaponry you can imagine.
Anyway, it's not long before they find a way to pass through the barrier; and what they find adds to the mystery.
I really enjoyed this novel. It was full of suspence, mystery, conspiracy, power struggles, conflict, insurrection, and other surprises. When Alex and the other people discovered what had happened to the outside world, the more intriguing it became. The only thing that stopped it from being a five star rating was Alex and his overactive hormones, which kicked in every couple of minutes (slight exaggeration). It was reaching the point where I wished he would go back to his cabin, spend some quality time with himself - and get it out of his system. I was starting to wonder if some funny wit slipped him an aphrodisiac or something. Maybe I'm being a bit harsh, as he's in his mid twenties, but I didn't care for his lascivious thoughts. Every woman he looked at created a stirring in his pants. I'm surprised he didn't get a brick or a mallet to bash himself over the head with: like a cartoon character when they see a beautiful woman.
Still, it's an intriguing story, that has a different take on when an apocalyptic event occurs.
August 30, 2018
The synopsis made me think this was going to be the adult version of The Maze Runner but the only real similarity was people waking up not knowing how they got there.
The plot was a bit far-fetched, which I can overlook easily, but combine that with the insta-love situation plus a lot of military,weapons and fighting and I can't rate it higher than a 3 star. The lack of relatable, likable characters didn't help either.
The concept of what happened to the planet was interesting even if it was far-fetched. It was certainly original - no aliens or zombies wiping out the population. I wouldn't recommend this for everyone but it was a good read and I think most people who are drawn in by the synopsis will enjoy the story also.
The plot was a bit far-fetched, which I can overlook easily, but combine that with the insta-love situation plus a lot of military,weapons and fighting and I can't rate it higher than a 3 star. The lack of relatable, likable characters didn't help either.
The concept of what happened to the planet was interesting even if it was far-fetched. It was certainly original - no aliens or zombies wiping out the population. I wouldn't recommend this for everyone but it was a good read and I think most people who are drawn in by the synopsis will enjoy the story also.
February 4, 2017
I picked this book up on impulse. (Someone in my Goodreads timeline marked it "to-read".) I like post-apocalyptic and/or dystopian reads (sorry, Amber!) and the plotline sounded interesting.
A diverse group of people find themselves in a strange camp with guns, strange technology, and no connection to one another (although we do find out later there was).
It that was all it was, I would probably not have enjoyed it as much. But there was good dialogue and situations, interesting characters, good intrigue and villains, and a great ending. I even wanted the story to go on.
Kudos to the author!
A diverse group of people find themselves in a strange camp with guns, strange technology, and no connection to one another (although we do find out later there was).
It that was all it was, I would probably not have enjoyed it as much. But there was good dialogue and situations, interesting characters, good intrigue and villains, and a great ending. I even wanted the story to go on.
Kudos to the author!
February 12, 2017
The idea is interestung although far-fetched and cliche, but the execution is very poor. It's written as a middle grade kind of YA romance more than anything.
All in all I was disappointed in this one.
All in all I was disappointed in this one.
March 1, 2019
A different and interesting take on the something bad happens genre. Different and intriguing with interesting and varied characters. Lots of 'oh shit' moments and crazy stuff happening. Kept my attention pretty much start to finish, was really good.
Only negative I'd have to say about it is that it had insta-love, which I hate, but in the way they were thrown together and how it happened, it wasn't out of place and didn't ruin the book.
Really enjoyable, really good.
Only negative I'd have to say about it is that it had insta-love, which I hate, but in the way they were thrown together and how it happened, it wasn't out of place and didn't ruin the book.
Really enjoyable, really good.
February 5, 2019
Stunted writing, overly descriptive of non-essential tangential information is distracting. I read to chapter 8 hoping it would get going with the story and less description without plot movement- can’t keep going. Not worth it. I can describe the characters clothing and clothing options more than them as people and their motives/interests.
April 6, 2017
This was a poorly written novel, a huge disappointment. The premise was intriguing but was poorly executed.
December 29, 2015
This is the book that made me join Goodreads. It is one of those rare books that just grabs you and takes you somewhere else, and when you're done reading you feel sad that you have to come back to the real world. I don't want to spoil anything, so I won't tell you what it's about, but you're probably not going to expect it. I can guarantee that if you like this type of book (I'd call it an action/adventure thriller with sci-fi elements), then you'll love this one.
I was quite surprised to find out that this is a self published book. The editing is professional, as is the cover. I had no idea until I noticed the lack of publisher logo and looked at the author's website. Guess the publishing industry dropped the ball on this one.
I was quite surprised to find out that this is a self published book. The editing is professional, as is the cover. I had no idea until I noticed the lack of publisher logo and looked at the author's website. Guess the publishing industry dropped the ball on this one.
September 22, 2019
(1.5/5★)
I bought this book on impulse while randomly browsing Amazon since it was a couple bucks and seemed like it would be an interesting, quick read. While it was a quick read, I'd say it was anything but interesting. Worse than that, it had me literally cringing (and groaning aloud) on several different occasions. Not too far into the book, the protagonist's eventual lover sums him up perfectly -"sometimes you act like a puerile teenager" which is funny, because the writing and plot is equivalent to that of something a young adult would write. There is even a quote by the hero at the conclusion, which quite accurately describes the narrative and dialogue of the book - "It was just so utterly and incomprehensibly stupid."
I bought this book on impulse while randomly browsing Amazon since it was a couple bucks and seemed like it would be an interesting, quick read. While it was a quick read, I'd say it was anything but interesting. Worse than that, it had me literally cringing (and groaning aloud) on several different occasions. Not too far into the book, the protagonist's eventual lover sums him up perfectly -"sometimes you act like a puerile teenager" which is funny, because the writing and plot is equivalent to that of something a young adult would write. There is even a quote by the hero at the conclusion, which quite accurately describes the narrative and dialogue of the book - "It was just so utterly and incomprehensibly stupid."
December 22, 2015
Third person narratives are an easy read and I am a fast reader, but seriously, the book was so compelling right from the start that it felt like I lost time. Seed is what I call 'boy' fiction, BUT it is excellent fiction, so good that me, a lover of all things girly, really, really liked it and would recommend it to anyone regardless of whether they are girly girls like me or have more in common with the male lead character.
I suppose the reason I found this book so likeable is because the main character is a compelling character. He is not so HERO that you just assume things will work out for him, yet not at all a schmuck antihero. My granny used to tell me that a good book should make you laugh, cry, think about things in a different way, and bang the book against the wall in frustration over character shenanigans, and this book hit all those notes except for tears and 3 out of 4 is a damn good average.
I don't want to give anything away, but if you like a good post apocalyptic romp, and if you want a story with characters that don't fall into the trap of trying too hard, if you want a book that raises questions about what we are doing to ourselves as a society and provides hints of ways we might be screwing ourselves without being preachy, this is a 5 star choice.
I suppose the reason I found this book so likeable is because the main character is a compelling character. He is not so HERO that you just assume things will work out for him, yet not at all a schmuck antihero. My granny used to tell me that a good book should make you laugh, cry, think about things in a different way, and bang the book against the wall in frustration over character shenanigans, and this book hit all those notes except for tears and 3 out of 4 is a damn good average.
I don't want to give anything away, but if you like a good post apocalyptic romp, and if you want a story with characters that don't fall into the trap of trying too hard, if you want a book that raises questions about what we are doing to ourselves as a society and provides hints of ways we might be screwing ourselves without being preachy, this is a 5 star choice.
never-mind-passing
April 5, 2019weak dialogue!!
August 11, 2019
The theme for my bookclub this month was Sci Fi and I have to admit it was the one I was looking forward to the least. But, this book surprised me. It reminded me of The Beach by Alex Garland crossed with The Hunger Games series. Could easily be an episode of Black Mirror too. Quite a fun read!
May 27, 2019
This books is a fantastic example of the power of showing rather than telling, in that it displays how counterproductive simply telling is, when what you show completely undermines your intended narrative.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
I bought the book on a whim as the plot appealed to me and the reviews were pretty positive. It's a sad thing when the synopsis turns out to be the best part of a book. I hated this. So much. From start to finish.
As some of the less favourable reviews have pointed out (which sadly I didn't take notice of) is that the book at times reads like it was written by a 14 year old boy. This is most evident around the main character.
Our main character is Alex who spends the whole novel judging people by the way they look. It normally turns out he's spot on in his prejudices but the characters actions normally contradict how they're supposed to be. For example, Max - in his first interaction with Alex he's friendly and shows a desire to take control of the situation in pursuit of working out what is going on. Alex therefore instantly dislikes him because... Of his face. Okay. And he's sure he's a liar because... Well he just is.
When he meets Yael she shouts in his face, tries to hit him and lies to him that her father is a lawyer. Next time he sees her she's horrible to him again and storms off. His impression of her? Really likes her and falls for her because she's pretty. She continues to show no personality throughout the novel which obviously results in Alex falling in love with her in FOUR DAYS. But remember, she's pretty. Really pretty.
And when he meets a character that turns out to be a conman and has spent his whole life lying to people, including Alex when they initially meet? Wel, he trusts him more than anyone.
Alex, judging on his thoughts and actions, has never seen a woman before. He spends the entire novel staring at them and thinking how pretty they all are. But when he thinks about how some old men chose these women to survive, judging them on their appearances it's makes him "angry"... Despite doing that himself all through the book.
Then there's the mystery of how the world is in this state. When the internet WizKid/conman finds the info revealing it all, after hearing how it happened, Alex tells him he doesn't want to know why this happened or who did it. He just wants revenge. Seriously? Why not ask why when the info is just there. This is very important later on.
He then meets a load of like minded army idiots who just want to kill and they go off to kill those responsible. They locate the base of those responsible and find it being guarded by soldiers who they acknowledge probably don't know they're actually protecting the bad guys. But in their pursuit of avenging all the innocent people that died they proceed to kill a load of innocent soldiers. Alex, true to form, doing something that he condones others for.
They then confront the bad guys and after brutalising them it turns out that the bad guys aren't actually bad as Alex decided he would probably have done the same in their position. So Alex and his buddies have killed a load of innocents for no reason. And if he'd actually bothered to listen to why they did this chapters earlier he would never have even had to kill anyone. But somehow the author still tries to paint Alex as a hero! He's killed a load of innocent people because he was too stupid to read a file first and he's a hero?!
But luckily he's not learnt his lesson, as when the general gives him the opportunity to take anything he wants to help his camp, he decides to take an armoured tank (killing machine) even though there's no one left to kill because it's fun.
As I said at the start, this book's main issue is that what it shows us is completely different to what it is trying to tell us. You can't tell us how amazing this hero is and have him literally murder people pointlessly. You can't tell us how incredible Yael is when she's got zero personality and is pretty horrible at times. And you can't tell us how manipulative Max is when every time he speaks to Alex he simply defeats Alex's arguments with logic, whilst Alex stoops to lying and getting drunk simply to annoy him... and then murders Max in cold blood when he's unarmed. Who is really the bad guy here?
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
I bought the book on a whim as the plot appealed to me and the reviews were pretty positive. It's a sad thing when the synopsis turns out to be the best part of a book. I hated this. So much. From start to finish.
As some of the less favourable reviews have pointed out (which sadly I didn't take notice of) is that the book at times reads like it was written by a 14 year old boy. This is most evident around the main character.
Our main character is Alex who spends the whole novel judging people by the way they look. It normally turns out he's spot on in his prejudices but the characters actions normally contradict how they're supposed to be. For example, Max - in his first interaction with Alex he's friendly and shows a desire to take control of the situation in pursuit of working out what is going on. Alex therefore instantly dislikes him because... Of his face. Okay. And he's sure he's a liar because... Well he just is.
When he meets Yael she shouts in his face, tries to hit him and lies to him that her father is a lawyer. Next time he sees her she's horrible to him again and storms off. His impression of her? Really likes her and falls for her because she's pretty. She continues to show no personality throughout the novel which obviously results in Alex falling in love with her in FOUR DAYS. But remember, she's pretty. Really pretty.
And when he meets a character that turns out to be a conman and has spent his whole life lying to people, including Alex when they initially meet? Wel, he trusts him more than anyone.
Alex, judging on his thoughts and actions, has never seen a woman before. He spends the entire novel staring at them and thinking how pretty they all are. But when he thinks about how some old men chose these women to survive, judging them on their appearances it's makes him "angry"... Despite doing that himself all through the book.
Then there's the mystery of how the world is in this state. When the internet WizKid/conman finds the info revealing it all, after hearing how it happened, Alex tells him he doesn't want to know why this happened or who did it. He just wants revenge. Seriously? Why not ask why when the info is just there. This is very important later on.
He then meets a load of like minded army idiots who just want to kill and they go off to kill those responsible. They locate the base of those responsible and find it being guarded by soldiers who they acknowledge probably don't know they're actually protecting the bad guys. But in their pursuit of avenging all the innocent people that died they proceed to kill a load of innocent soldiers. Alex, true to form, doing something that he condones others for.
They then confront the bad guys and after brutalising them it turns out that the bad guys aren't actually bad as Alex decided he would probably have done the same in their position. So Alex and his buddies have killed a load of innocents for no reason. And if he'd actually bothered to listen to why they did this chapters earlier he would never have even had to kill anyone. But somehow the author still tries to paint Alex as a hero! He's killed a load of innocent people because he was too stupid to read a file first and he's a hero?!
But luckily he's not learnt his lesson, as when the general gives him the opportunity to take anything he wants to help his camp, he decides to take an armoured tank (killing machine) even though there's no one left to kill because it's fun.
As I said at the start, this book's main issue is that what it shows us is completely different to what it is trying to tell us. You can't tell us how amazing this hero is and have him literally murder people pointlessly. You can't tell us how incredible Yael is when she's got zero personality and is pretty horrible at times. And you can't tell us how manipulative Max is when every time he speaks to Alex he simply defeats Alex's arguments with logic, whilst Alex stoops to lying and getting drunk simply to annoy him... and then murders Max in cold blood when he's unarmed. Who is really the bad guy here?
March 19, 2020
This was a quick, easy post-apocalyptic story. The main character’s behavior was sort of juvenile at times but I still cared about what happened right up to the end. I also didn’t find the storyline too far fetched. Sometimes post-apocalyptic fiction starts out great but then takes a huge turn and gets ridiculous (I’m thinking of The Stand) but this book stayed pretty believable throughout.
November 21, 2017
My original Seed audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Michael Edelson gives new meaning to “never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” Alex, a soldier, goes to sleep and wakes the next morning to discover himself in a paradise of beaches and no missions. He, along with 49 others wake up stranded on an island with a life-threatening force field and individual assignments – a governor, a soldier, a cook, a doctor, a biochemist and more. Enough folks to start their own little world with little to go on. All their needs are met on the island, there is no reason to venture forth … is there?
Alex is not one to take things at face value so, with a few trusted and trained residents, he sets forth to discover what happened and how widespread it is … he should have stayed on the beach!
Michael Edelson captures the imagination of his listeners by presenting them with a doomsday event that reveals horrors and actions of those in power that will leave your head spinning. This is scarier than most books because it COULD happen; it MIGHT happen, and we as humans are doomed if it does.
Action packed thriller that challenges one’s morals and belief of right vs wrong. This book will make you think, then challenge your beliefs and make you think again. Conspiracy theorists will love it but if you enjoy adventure, action and the unknown … settle back and listen. This is an awesome book!
Michael Edelson does an excellent job of capturing his audience and squeezing every emotion known to humankind. Rob Zaleski, the narrator, became the book and characters. His delivery and talent were phenomenal. I thought Zaleski performed expertly and would love to hear other performances by him.
If you love action, stories that make you think, and emotional roller coasters – this is the book!
There were no issues with the production or quality of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Please find this complete review and many others at my review blog.
Michael Edelson gives new meaning to “never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” Alex, a soldier, goes to sleep and wakes the next morning to discover himself in a paradise of beaches and no missions. He, along with 49 others wake up stranded on an island with a life-threatening force field and individual assignments – a governor, a soldier, a cook, a doctor, a biochemist and more. Enough folks to start their own little world with little to go on. All their needs are met on the island, there is no reason to venture forth … is there?
Alex is not one to take things at face value so, with a few trusted and trained residents, he sets forth to discover what happened and how widespread it is … he should have stayed on the beach!
Michael Edelson captures the imagination of his listeners by presenting them with a doomsday event that reveals horrors and actions of those in power that will leave your head spinning. This is scarier than most books because it COULD happen; it MIGHT happen, and we as humans are doomed if it does.
Action packed thriller that challenges one’s morals and belief of right vs wrong. This book will make you think, then challenge your beliefs and make you think again. Conspiracy theorists will love it but if you enjoy adventure, action and the unknown … settle back and listen. This is an awesome book!
Michael Edelson does an excellent job of capturing his audience and squeezing every emotion known to humankind. Rob Zaleski, the narrator, became the book and characters. His delivery and talent were phenomenal. I thought Zaleski performed expertly and would love to hear other performances by him.
If you love action, stories that make you think, and emotional roller coasters – this is the book!
There were no issues with the production or quality of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Please find this complete review and many others at my review blog.
July 6, 2019
God, I loved this so much. It was just so so good! Fantastically written, I couldn’t guess anything and felt as clueless as the characters, discovering everything alongside them. Gripping and exciting, there were parts I just physically couldn’t stop reading. This would make such a good film.
December 25, 2015
If you're a fan of LOST, Lord of the Flies, et al, you'll love this book. It's a fast paced thriller with a real, believable protagonist and a sci-fi premise that is actually believable (and internally consistent).
Definite recommend for anyone looking for something to read that they won't be able to put down from start to finish. I'm not joking; I read the entire thing in a matter of hours.
Merged review:
If you're a fan of LOST, Lord of the Flies, et al, you'll love this book. It's a fast paced thriller with a real, believable protagonist and a sci-fi premise that is actually believable (and internally consistent).
Definite recommend for anyone looking for something to read that they won't be able to put down from start to finish. I'm not joking; I read the entire thing in a matter of hours.
Definite recommend for anyone looking for something to read that they won't be able to put down from start to finish. I'm not joking; I read the entire thing in a matter of hours.
Merged review:
If you're a fan of LOST, Lord of the Flies, et al, you'll love this book. It's a fast paced thriller with a real, believable protagonist and a sci-fi premise that is actually believable (and internally consistent).
Definite recommend for anyone looking for something to read that they won't be able to put down from start to finish. I'm not joking; I read the entire thing in a matter of hours.
September 19, 2020
Good read
I was looking for a good book that had some mystery and some action; this fit the bill. The writing was clear and descriptive and the story line mostly plausible. If I had to critique it a bit more stringently I would say the author has excellent promise, and while this story is GOOD there are plot points that seem rushed. While still plausible and adding to the story the development of a love interest is where this story struggles in this regard and if other points were elaborated on or allowed the reader to ‘unravel’ more of the mystery, this book would be PHENOMENAL. Overall, this was a very good read and I recommend it! I will be reading his other books and following him to see if he is able to advance his skills and I would not be surprised if we start seeing more of his work prominently within the literary community!
I was looking for a good book that had some mystery and some action; this fit the bill. The writing was clear and descriptive and the story line mostly plausible. If I had to critique it a bit more stringently I would say the author has excellent promise, and while this story is GOOD there are plot points that seem rushed. While still plausible and adding to the story the development of a love interest is where this story struggles in this regard and if other points were elaborated on or allowed the reader to ‘unravel’ more of the mystery, this book would be PHENOMENAL. Overall, this was a very good read and I recommend it! I will be reading his other books and following him to see if he is able to advance his skills and I would not be surprised if we start seeing more of his work prominently within the literary community!
May 16, 2019
I thought this concept was pretty interesting. Reminded me of Wool (the full omnibus). I would be vaguely interested to read more about this world they've created here. I think this works great as a jumping off point for more story or for alternate story lines (i.e. this was going on while you were reading that previous story).
I will say that I thought that the conflict with Max was a bit rushed but only insomuch as Max miscalculated how far he could push Sam before he'd try to kill him, and also the amount of firepower at his command.
I will say that I thought that the conflict with Max was a bit rushed but only insomuch as Max miscalculated how far he could push Sam before he'd try to kill him, and also the amount of firepower at his command.
May 19, 2019
I really enjoyed this one. It kept me guessing and interested the whole way through, although I have to admit the part with a fair bit of military strategy and weapons kinda lost me a little. Luckily that was only a small part so I got over it. The story line was a different take on the whole "end-of-the-world" theme and I really liked that. Sure the love story seemed a bit quick and maybe not quite so believable but I will happily overlook that as the rest was so great. An enjoyable read for sure.
June 10, 2019
I had no pre-conceptions going into this one and didn’t know much about it. I like post-apocalyptic stories and didn’t know this was going in that direction. I saw a review that called it far-fetched but I really don’t think the cause of the destruction was far-fetched at all. The way it was handled and the set-up of the story may have been but I found it a very enjoyable read. A bit too much military weapons description for my taste, but they felt accurate and some will like that aspect. I liked the characters and the pace was good. I’d recommend this one.
March 9, 2019
The only issue I had with the story was the super instant love situation. But it was not terribly sleazy and eww so I'm totally willing to overlook it and declare this book effin' awesome. It's been a while since I read something so engaging and I am very happy that Amazon kept recomending it untill I gave in and bought it.
October 15, 2021
Despite some initial awkwardness and a general tendency to meatheaded sexism, the story is actually pretty good and the whole thing picks up in the second half with some decent action.
August 8, 2020
This was a way interesting book and I feel like with what’s going on in the world right now it could not have been a more perfect time.
This book follows a soldier who wakes up not knowing where he is or how he got there. Him and 49 others are trapped inside of a barrier (a dome of area essentially). They all have their own homes and door the can open inside of a warehouse. It gets so much deeper than that.
The whole time you are trying to figure out what’s going on and who is really linked with who. The bad guys are recognized pretty easily as usual because they suck.
The ending was really wrapped together and it was all very interesting. It was enjoyable. This moved beyond the typical dystopian novel.
This book follows a soldier who wakes up not knowing where he is or how he got there. Him and 49 others are trapped inside of a barrier (a dome of area essentially). They all have their own homes and door the can open inside of a warehouse. It gets so much deeper than that.
The whole time you are trying to figure out what’s going on and who is really linked with who. The bad guys are recognized pretty easily as usual because they suck.
The ending was really wrapped together and it was all very interesting. It was enjoyable. This moved beyond the typical dystopian novel.
May 25, 2020
4.5 stars
July 28, 2019
I wanted to do a 3.5 for the rating but you could argue for a four. This really felt like Wayward Pines meets Wool. Which reading both fascinated me to see the two concepts together. I liked the pace and writing of the book. With these books sometimes the WHY can miss but this does ok with the reasoning behind it all. I have been seeing this book pop up from others reading and glad I gave it a chance.
January 13, 2017
“Seeds” an innovative and gripping blend of science fiction, mystery and romance opens when Alex Meyer, a paratrooper wakes up in a jungle compound; his only memory, a tragic explosion that injured his comrade, and a headache before he went to sleep. Promoted to Captain by an unseen government he quickly learns that he has access to a weapons room coded to his DNA in a warehouse stocked with food and supplies, and that the barrier enclosing the facility is lethal.
With orders to support the governor, an underhanded and controlling former law professor and court judge unless he proves to be dangerous, Alex gathers a team of those he trusts including Yael, a mathematician; Barbara, a doctor; and Tom, a skilled hacker. Wanting to learn more about their location, and the reason for the colony of fifty people all with high IQ’s, Alex and his team discover a way to lower the barrier so they can search for clues to the mystery only to uncover a horrific secret.
Set on the island of Kauai in Hawaii the plot heats up not only as Alex and his team discover the devastating secret behind the colony’s existence, but when it becomes apparent that the governor’s henchmen and his scheming threaten the solidarity of the colony. Threatened himself by Max whose plans he continually thwarts, Alex must search his conscience before taking steps to end to the problem that endangers the colony or be killed trying.
Fast-paced and action-packed the intensity and suspense of the plot continually escalates as clues emerge that result in Alex facing off with the governor, discovering a biotech weapon and a government conspiracy. Yet Michael Edelson skilfully breaks the growing tension and violence with the romance brewing between Alex and the temperamental Jewish woman Yael. Well-written and exciting as events unfold the story keeps you enthralled from the first page to its explosive conclusion.
The characters capture your interest with their human failings, flaws and strengths, bringing a sense of reality to this imaginative plot. Captain Alex Meyer is the soldier who’s been scarred by his military experiences in the field making him wary, and a bit of a hot-head when he fears Yael’s been killed. Although impulsive and overly confident in testing the limits of his strength and training against the barrier, he does exhibit logic and a moral conscience when ordered to kill Wawa and on the mainland when faced with the culprits who engineered a biological mistake.
Among a bevy of other fascinating personalities who infuse the plot with high-emotion, energy and drama are Yael, a Jewish mathematician who’s spirited and often difficult; an empathetic trauma surgeon; a brilliant hacker with a wry sense of humor; and Max the calculating, ruthless and manipulative governor. Although I enjoyed the interaction of all the characters Alex’s obsession with the argumentative and sullen Yael was a bit improbable especially with his libido in high gear whenever he was faced with one of the other nubile young women in the colony.
With overtones of Michael Grant’s “Gone” series “Seeds” is a thrilling and fascinating science-fiction story with twists that kept me on the edge of my seat and totally intoxicated. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to see what Michael Edelson has in-store next for his readers.
With orders to support the governor, an underhanded and controlling former law professor and court judge unless he proves to be dangerous, Alex gathers a team of those he trusts including Yael, a mathematician; Barbara, a doctor; and Tom, a skilled hacker. Wanting to learn more about their location, and the reason for the colony of fifty people all with high IQ’s, Alex and his team discover a way to lower the barrier so they can search for clues to the mystery only to uncover a horrific secret.
Set on the island of Kauai in Hawaii the plot heats up not only as Alex and his team discover the devastating secret behind the colony’s existence, but when it becomes apparent that the governor’s henchmen and his scheming threaten the solidarity of the colony. Threatened himself by Max whose plans he continually thwarts, Alex must search his conscience before taking steps to end to the problem that endangers the colony or be killed trying.
Fast-paced and action-packed the intensity and suspense of the plot continually escalates as clues emerge that result in Alex facing off with the governor, discovering a biotech weapon and a government conspiracy. Yet Michael Edelson skilfully breaks the growing tension and violence with the romance brewing between Alex and the temperamental Jewish woman Yael. Well-written and exciting as events unfold the story keeps you enthralled from the first page to its explosive conclusion.
The characters capture your interest with their human failings, flaws and strengths, bringing a sense of reality to this imaginative plot. Captain Alex Meyer is the soldier who’s been scarred by his military experiences in the field making him wary, and a bit of a hot-head when he fears Yael’s been killed. Although impulsive and overly confident in testing the limits of his strength and training against the barrier, he does exhibit logic and a moral conscience when ordered to kill Wawa and on the mainland when faced with the culprits who engineered a biological mistake.
Among a bevy of other fascinating personalities who infuse the plot with high-emotion, energy and drama are Yael, a Jewish mathematician who’s spirited and often difficult; an empathetic trauma surgeon; a brilliant hacker with a wry sense of humor; and Max the calculating, ruthless and manipulative governor. Although I enjoyed the interaction of all the characters Alex’s obsession with the argumentative and sullen Yael was a bit improbable especially with his libido in high gear whenever he was faced with one of the other nubile young women in the colony.
With overtones of Michael Grant’s “Gone” series “Seeds” is a thrilling and fascinating science-fiction story with twists that kept me on the edge of my seat and totally intoxicated. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to see what Michael Edelson has in-store next for his readers.
June 17, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyable can't really tell you what it's about or I'll just spoil it. It's a page turner though.
March 12, 2019
Review by 2shay…………
Well hello there! Wow! I am a serious fan of apocalyptic and dystopian stories, and this is a great one! I love to see the creative ways an author can destroy the world as we know it, bring together a group of survivors and explore the conflicts and alliances that result from perceived necessity. Some want power, some want freedom or security. Most just want a peaceful place to rest after….After!
This group had it better than most survivors. A beautiful place. Trees, the ocean and a perfect camp with enough food and supplies to last for a very long time. But, they can’t leave. There’s a weird barrier that makes them sick if they try to pass through. And, of course, the conflicts and alliances begin.
This story is told by Alex, a soldier. He’s about as reluctant a hero as you could imagine, but he’s very honest with himself. I enjoyed seeing this story through his eyes. The compound he and the others are trapped in is pretty darn nice. He’s impressed. There is a huge warehouse with supplies, each different type protected by a DNA coded access panel, the same as their individual living quarters. It’s idylic, and Alex finds himself being happy there, especially after he makes a connection with a beautiful Jewish girl, Yael.
But happiness is fleeting as Max, who claims to be the “governor” of the compound, starts taking more and more authority and surrounding himself with sycophants…means ones with bad attitudes. When Max decides that floggings and even death by exposure to the barrier are appropriate punishments, Alex and his friends have had enough.
If you read the “about the author” section at the bottom of this page, you will see that Michael Edelson is a firefighter. As one of those rare and wonderful people who runs toward danger when others flee, he is uniquely qualified to write Alex. Alex has so many doubts and guilt about the things he’s done and needs to do, but doesn’t flinch when pushed to protect his people. He’s a wonderful hero, and I loved every page of his story. Pick up a copy and…
Enjoy!
Well hello there! Wow! I am a serious fan of apocalyptic and dystopian stories, and this is a great one! I love to see the creative ways an author can destroy the world as we know it, bring together a group of survivors and explore the conflicts and alliances that result from perceived necessity. Some want power, some want freedom or security. Most just want a peaceful place to rest after….After!
This group had it better than most survivors. A beautiful place. Trees, the ocean and a perfect camp with enough food and supplies to last for a very long time. But, they can’t leave. There’s a weird barrier that makes them sick if they try to pass through. And, of course, the conflicts and alliances begin.
This story is told by Alex, a soldier. He’s about as reluctant a hero as you could imagine, but he’s very honest with himself. I enjoyed seeing this story through his eyes. The compound he and the others are trapped in is pretty darn nice. He’s impressed. There is a huge warehouse with supplies, each different type protected by a DNA coded access panel, the same as their individual living quarters. It’s idylic, and Alex finds himself being happy there, especially after he makes a connection with a beautiful Jewish girl, Yael.
But happiness is fleeting as Max, who claims to be the “governor” of the compound, starts taking more and more authority and surrounding himself with sycophants…means ones with bad attitudes. When Max decides that floggings and even death by exposure to the barrier are appropriate punishments, Alex and his friends have had enough.
If you read the “about the author” section at the bottom of this page, you will see that Michael Edelson is a firefighter. As one of those rare and wonderful people who runs toward danger when others flee, he is uniquely qualified to write Alex. Alex has so many doubts and guilt about the things he’s done and needs to do, but doesn’t flinch when pushed to protect his people. He’s a wonderful hero, and I loved every page of his story. Pick up a copy and…
Enjoy!
September 1, 2017
Highly enjoyable apocalyptic action mystery thriller (I'm having trouble categorising it!) with interesting characters, a superb plot and a satisfactory ending. It is also very well written.
The story initially revolves around 50 people (although we only 'meet' about a dozen or so of them in any depth) who wake up in a mysterious jungle compound enclosed by a forcefield of some kind. Is it for their protection or is it a prison? None of them know why they are there and we see various roles being adopted and differences of opinion occurring, causing divisions. As the group slowly gains knowledge and information, there is quite a bit of jostling for power, as might be expected.
The ending of the book brings up some interesting moral dilemmas as we begin to see things from a totally different perspective.
This book is absorbing, compelling and a worthwhile read. Only two things mildly annoyed me - our hero Alex and his omnipresent raging hormones; also it went a bit too 'military' towards the end for my taste. However these did not detract from a great read worthy of 5 stars.
The story initially revolves around 50 people (although we only 'meet' about a dozen or so of them in any depth) who wake up in a mysterious jungle compound enclosed by a forcefield of some kind. Is it for their protection or is it a prison? None of them know why they are there and we see various roles being adopted and differences of opinion occurring, causing divisions. As the group slowly gains knowledge and information, there is quite a bit of jostling for power, as might be expected.
The ending of the book brings up some interesting moral dilemmas as we begin to see things from a totally different perspective.
This book is absorbing, compelling and a worthwhile read. Only two things mildly annoyed me - our hero Alex and his omnipresent raging hormones; also it went a bit too 'military' towards the end for my taste. However these did not detract from a great read worthy of 5 stars.
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