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The Domino Effect
A Financial Thriller That Will Keep Readers on the Edge of Their Seats
Esther Harding, a leading risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, is becoming more and more convinced that she has uncovered a ticking bomb with the potential to overshadow 2008's market crash. And as her own employer pursues "investment" strategies with ever-increasing levels of risk, she becomes convinced she must do something. Yet what can one person really do?
The markets are edging closer to a tipping point--like the teetering first domino in a standing row that circles the globe. And when Esther does sound the alarm, she wonders if anyone will take her seriously. But as public support grows for her ideas, so does the desperation of those whose conspiracy of greed she seeks to expose. With global markets on the brink, and her own life in danger, Esther is locked in a race with the clock to avert a worldwide financial meltdown.
This fast-paced suspense novel will make you wonder where the fiction ends and reality begins. . . .
Endorsement
"Davis Bunn applies his deft hand to "The Domino Effect" with the grace and mastery his dedicated fans have come to expect. . . ."--Jerry B. Jenkins
Esther Harding, a leading risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, is becoming more and more convinced that she has uncovered a ticking bomb with the potential to overshadow 2008's market crash. And as her own employer pursues "investment" strategies with ever-increasing levels of risk, she becomes convinced she must do something. Yet what can one person really do?
The markets are edging closer to a tipping point--like the teetering first domino in a standing row that circles the globe. And when Esther does sound the alarm, she wonders if anyone will take her seriously. But as public support grows for her ideas, so does the desperation of those whose conspiracy of greed she seeks to expose. With global markets on the brink, and her own life in danger, Esther is locked in a race with the clock to avert a worldwide financial meltdown.
This fast-paced suspense novel will make you wonder where the fiction ends and reality begins. . . .
Endorsement
"Davis Bunn applies his deft hand to "The Domino Effect" with the grace and mastery his dedicated fans have come to expect. . . ."--Jerry B. Jenkins
336 pages, Paperback
Published September 6, 2016
237 people are currently reading
664 people want to read
About the author
Davis Bunn
109 books1,030 followersDavis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than eight million books in twenty languages.
Honored with four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, Davis was inducted into the Christy Hall of Fame in 2014.
His bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was serves as Writer in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.
Davis Bunn also writes under the names Thomas Locke (for his epic fantasy and techno-thriller novels) and T. Davis Bunn (for books published prior to 2002).
Honored with four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, Davis was inducted into the Christy Hall of Fame in 2014.
His bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was serves as Writer in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.
Davis Bunn also writes under the names Thomas Locke (for his epic fantasy and techno-thriller novels) and T. Davis Bunn (for books published prior to 2002).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
February 8, 2017
Before I go into my review I want to let those of you who are not savvy in the arena of the stock market and investment banking know that you should keep reading this review and then pick up The Domino Effect. Davis Bunn has provided a great education and a needed warning in an understandable and exciting way. I truly feel that you will enjoy the ride. Now onto the review.
Davis Bunn’s novel The Domino Effect is absolutely thrilling and frightening. A warning of the probable future of the global economy if drastic action isn’t taken. In the financial arena, Bunn knows what he is talking about. His bio states that “after completing degrees in international economics and finance in the United States and England, Davis became a business executive working in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.” He understands the global impact of our current banking methodology.
Some people live and breathe mathematical constructs and have an intuitive understanding of investment banking and the stock market. Others work hard to learn how to manage their investments. Then there are those like me… admittedly illiterate. There is a long list of concepts and terms in The Domino Effect that I honestly knew almost nothing about, but should have. My husband and I entrust the professionals to take care of our families investments. This may or may not be the best way but investment banking is confusing to us. I’m still not going to manage my own portfolio but Bunn has taken those concepts and terms that are crazy complicated in my mind and made them understandable without dumbing down the material. He has provided me with a greater understanding of our national economy and its interconnectedness with the global economy.
Lest you think that The Domino Effect is just a tome on the stock market and international banking you need to know that The Domino Effect is a thrilling ride. It is chock full of danger and intrigue. It is also a story of acceptance, friendship, and healing.
The Domino Effect is Christian fiction but the Christianity is very subtle. It is a book that you could give to a non-Christian friend and they wouldn’t feel preached to. It isn’t an evangelistic book. The Domino Effect is a creative modern adaptation of the biblical book of Esther. Through the life and actions of the fictional strategic analyst Esther, Bunn takes the frenetic modern world of investment banking and applies parallels to the biblical story and person of Esther. Both are women who feel out of time and place yet find their purpose; a purpose that has an electric effect upon a nation.
“Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 ESV as quoted in The Domino Effect
Read The Domino Effect. Enjoy the action and intrigue. Understand the dominoes and the disaster that would follow that metaphorical tipping of the first one.
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 Bewildered
Davis Bunn’s novel The Domino Effect is absolutely thrilling and frightening. A warning of the probable future of the global economy if drastic action isn’t taken. In the financial arena, Bunn knows what he is talking about. His bio states that “after completing degrees in international economics and finance in the United States and England, Davis became a business executive working in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.” He understands the global impact of our current banking methodology.
Some people live and breathe mathematical constructs and have an intuitive understanding of investment banking and the stock market. Others work hard to learn how to manage their investments. Then there are those like me… admittedly illiterate. There is a long list of concepts and terms in The Domino Effect that I honestly knew almost nothing about, but should have. My husband and I entrust the professionals to take care of our families investments. This may or may not be the best way but investment banking is confusing to us. I’m still not going to manage my own portfolio but Bunn has taken those concepts and terms that are crazy complicated in my mind and made them understandable without dumbing down the material. He has provided me with a greater understanding of our national economy and its interconnectedness with the global economy.
Lest you think that The Domino Effect is just a tome on the stock market and international banking you need to know that The Domino Effect is a thrilling ride. It is chock full of danger and intrigue. It is also a story of acceptance, friendship, and healing.
The Domino Effect is Christian fiction but the Christianity is very subtle. It is a book that you could give to a non-Christian friend and they wouldn’t feel preached to. It isn’t an evangelistic book. The Domino Effect is a creative modern adaptation of the biblical book of Esther. Through the life and actions of the fictional strategic analyst Esther, Bunn takes the frenetic modern world of investment banking and applies parallels to the biblical story and person of Esther. Both are women who feel out of time and place yet find their purpose; a purpose that has an electric effect upon a nation.
“Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 ESV as quoted in The Domino Effect
Read The Domino Effect. Enjoy the action and intrigue. Understand the dominoes and the disaster that would follow that metaphorical tipping of the first one.
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 Bewildered
April 1, 2021
A great financial thriller, and very timely.
January 31, 2017
WOW, A John Grisham type book, except investment banking. A grabber, and the reader will think of the key verse in the Book of Esther long before it comes up on page 298. Full of financial terms, but the plot and suspense is so great, who cares. A must read.
February 8, 2017
The Domino Effect is completely different from the prior two books. This is the story of a brilliant woman with a pain-filled past and present who is aware of a looming economic crisis. As the lead analyst at a colossal bank, she has access to information and the ability to piece together that data to see that the crisis is imminent and will be catastrophic. As she becomes surrounded by a slowly growing cast that believes in what she sees and knows, she begins to realize she doesn't have to be alone anymore. The plot twists and turns with the question of will Esther be able to protect those who take her advice from the projected crash. There's an even greater question of will she be able to abort or short-circuit that crash. Add in a slim thread of romance, and this is an enjoyable read for those who like romantic suspense with a twist.
December 2, 2022
I would have NEVER picked this book up if I didn’t see it at a free little library. First of all, I don’t read books in this fiction genre and second of all, I am a person to judge a book by its cover. The cover art is not very pretty but the book was decent. It gave me views of what people do in the financial world. Defiantly a different point of view, and surprisingly very fast paced.
October 24, 2016
One year of economics in senior high school was more than enough to prove the world of high finance was not for me, but that didn’t stop me from becoming completely engrossed in this financial thriller from Davis Bunn. It’s a plot that engages the intellect, with its inclusion of stock market concepts like derivatives and hedging - although Bunn did a masterful job of making the necessary exposition organic to the story, as economical as possible (no pun intended!), and clear enough to understand what was at stake and why. But it's also a plot that engages the emotions, sharing a very personal side to Esther's story alongside her professional one.
The novel is loosely based on the book of Esther in the Bible, or more precisely, the role Esther accepted as spokesperson for her people: Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this? But instead of the annihilation of a group of people, Esther Larson foresees a financial crisis the likes of which the world has never seen before - because the national economies have never been so interlinked before.
Since the Wall Street crash of 2008, Esther has been collating information on the certifiable factors that lead to the crash, as well as other activities – many either illegal or unverifiable – that she is fairly certain played a major role in the crash. Most importantly, she has identified a list of sixteen US, and forty-seven global financial institutions currently engaging in those same activities.
But these high risk investment strategies are only part of the problem. Since the crash of 2008 there has been a huge upswing in computer-driven stock trades - automatic transactions that take place in direct response to certain pre-determined market conditions. Given the size and speed of these transactions (which would occur too quickly for a human to counteract) the potential for one market movement to trigger a domino effect is frighteningly real. Especially if someone has plans to exploit that very weakness...
How can one woman hope to make a difference? And is it worth losing her job, and possibly her life, to try?
The personal side to this story for Esther concerns her older brother, Nathan. Having lost their parents when Esther was still in grade school, Nathan is the only family she has left, but seven months ago, he was involved in an accident that killed his pregnant wife and left him seriously injured. He has been in a rehab facility ever since, but instead of improving, he is regressing. For the last nine weeks he has refused to participate in his daily treatments. In fact, he refuses to interact at all, spending his time sleeping or staring out of his hospital window, and the rehab centre’s director is pressuring Esther to have him transferred to a mental facility. There is only so much modern medicine can do when a patient has given up the will to live.
At a time when both her personal and her professional situations weigh heavily on her, the highly introverted Esther is encouraged to take the daunting step of opening up to a small group of friends, including a former accountant turned divinity student named Craig Wessex, and his two daughters. With their support, she begins speaking out about her concerns, and also finds the strength she needs to make the decisions that must be made in relation to her brother. Watching this woman who has always felt like an alien in the company of others begin to connect with them and understand that she is not alone brought a wonderfully human and, at times, poignant dimension to the story.
Another engrossing read from this very versatile author.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.
The novel is loosely based on the book of Esther in the Bible, or more precisely, the role Esther accepted as spokesperson for her people: Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this? But instead of the annihilation of a group of people, Esther Larson foresees a financial crisis the likes of which the world has never seen before - because the national economies have never been so interlinked before.
Since the Wall Street crash of 2008, Esther has been collating information on the certifiable factors that lead to the crash, as well as other activities – many either illegal or unverifiable – that she is fairly certain played a major role in the crash. Most importantly, she has identified a list of sixteen US, and forty-seven global financial institutions currently engaging in those same activities.
But these high risk investment strategies are only part of the problem. Since the crash of 2008 there has been a huge upswing in computer-driven stock trades - automatic transactions that take place in direct response to certain pre-determined market conditions. Given the size and speed of these transactions (which would occur too quickly for a human to counteract) the potential for one market movement to trigger a domino effect is frighteningly real. Especially if someone has plans to exploit that very weakness...
How can one woman hope to make a difference? And is it worth losing her job, and possibly her life, to try?
The personal side to this story for Esther concerns her older brother, Nathan. Having lost their parents when Esther was still in grade school, Nathan is the only family she has left, but seven months ago, he was involved in an accident that killed his pregnant wife and left him seriously injured. He has been in a rehab facility ever since, but instead of improving, he is regressing. For the last nine weeks he has refused to participate in his daily treatments. In fact, he refuses to interact at all, spending his time sleeping or staring out of his hospital window, and the rehab centre’s director is pressuring Esther to have him transferred to a mental facility. There is only so much modern medicine can do when a patient has given up the will to live.
At a time when both her personal and her professional situations weigh heavily on her, the highly introverted Esther is encouraged to take the daunting step of opening up to a small group of friends, including a former accountant turned divinity student named Craig Wessex, and his two daughters. With their support, she begins speaking out about her concerns, and also finds the strength she needs to make the decisions that must be made in relation to her brother. Watching this woman who has always felt like an alien in the company of others begin to connect with them and understand that she is not alone brought a wonderfully human and, at times, poignant dimension to the story.
Another engrossing read from this very versatile author.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.
September 22, 2016
Ever hear of David Bunn? I hadn't, but he's been around for quite some time. I was curious about this book, but I will have to admit that once I started to read it, I was having a bit of a hard time getting through the beginning. I'm not sure if it has anything to do with the fact that it was pretty mathematical, and I am so not mathematical. Who knows because once I got into the story further, it didn't matter if I knew math or not and the story flowed really nice.
Anyway, as the story opens, Esther Larsen, a top risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, seems to live in a shell and can hardly allow anyone to get close to her. As the story progresses, Esther gradually comes out of that shell, allowing more people slowly into her world.
For years, she has been researching and tracking the trends that led to the stock market crash of 2008. As Esther becomes convinced that a larger and more damaging crash is coming in the future, Esther becomes convinced she needs to speak up and warn someone about the potential future danger.
Esther knows she needs to do something about the banking crisis but doesn't have the guidance she needs (such as Esther from the Bible had). This novel has characters who follow biblical principles similar to those in the Bible.
This book definitely has a nice paced story that is very engaging, added with non-stop action and characters readers can care about. Once I got over the bumpy start, I read right through to the end of the story to find out how it would end. While the ending was great, I did get the feeling that the author left it a bit open so we might get a book #2 to this story. Only time will tell!
was provided with a complimentary paperback copy of this book from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
Anyway, as the story opens, Esther Larsen, a top risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, seems to live in a shell and can hardly allow anyone to get close to her. As the story progresses, Esther gradually comes out of that shell, allowing more people slowly into her world.
For years, she has been researching and tracking the trends that led to the stock market crash of 2008. As Esther becomes convinced that a larger and more damaging crash is coming in the future, Esther becomes convinced she needs to speak up and warn someone about the potential future danger.
Esther knows she needs to do something about the banking crisis but doesn't have the guidance she needs (such as Esther from the Bible had). This novel has characters who follow biblical principles similar to those in the Bible.
This book definitely has a nice paced story that is very engaging, added with non-stop action and characters readers can care about. Once I got over the bumpy start, I read right through to the end of the story to find out how it would end. While the ending was great, I did get the feeling that the author left it a bit open so we might get a book #2 to this story. Only time will tell!
was provided with a complimentary paperback copy of this book from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
October 17, 2016
Warning: may incite a rabid reading frenzy of epic proportion.
I hesitated over reading The Domino Effect simply because I thought it would be way over my head. The average third grader has surpassed my math comprehension so reading a book about banks and investment strategies seemed like an exercise in torture to me. :-) But I know Davis Bunn can spin a good tale and I was intrigued enough to step out in faith and start reading.
Wow.
Intense. Dynamic. Compelling. Yes, I didn't understand the nitty gritty of all the financial stuff, but I always grasped the gist of it so I understood the danger and how it carried the plot forward. In fact, there were a few places where Bunn did such a good job of breaking down the banking information that I actually began to get some of it. So I learned something from reading The Domino Effect!
Esther is such a relatable heroine. And I love the parallel the author has created between his present day Esther and the biblical one. That just brought a whole other dimension to the story. Esther has spent most of her life as an outsider looking in. Her current work situation becomes the catalyst that compels her to move out of the shadows and become the complete woman God meant for her to be. And in the process the reader gets the benefit of a bit of light romance. Can't go wrong with that, in my humble opinion!
An absorbing, mesmerizing story that's sure to get you thinking.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
I hesitated over reading The Domino Effect simply because I thought it would be way over my head. The average third grader has surpassed my math comprehension so reading a book about banks and investment strategies seemed like an exercise in torture to me. :-) But I know Davis Bunn can spin a good tale and I was intrigued enough to step out in faith and start reading.
Wow.
Intense. Dynamic. Compelling. Yes, I didn't understand the nitty gritty of all the financial stuff, but I always grasped the gist of it so I understood the danger and how it carried the plot forward. In fact, there were a few places where Bunn did such a good job of breaking down the banking information that I actually began to get some of it. So I learned something from reading The Domino Effect!
Esther is such a relatable heroine. And I love the parallel the author has created between his present day Esther and the biblical one. That just brought a whole other dimension to the story. Esther has spent most of her life as an outsider looking in. Her current work situation becomes the catalyst that compels her to move out of the shadows and become the complete woman God meant for her to be. And in the process the reader gets the benefit of a bit of light romance. Can't go wrong with that, in my humble opinion!
An absorbing, mesmerizing story that's sure to get you thinking.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
October 21, 2016
I have read several of Davis Bunn's books, and he is a very versatile author. I have read some that were so thrilling I didn't want to put them down, and others that were interesting and a more calm read.
I hate to give a book a negative review. especially an author I like so well, but this was one I just couldn't get into. I always try to be honest in my reviews, so I shall be.
I thought the plot was a great one. The banking disaster a few years back is still fresh on everyone's minds, so it made a great plot. I liked the characters, though the main one seemed a bit odd and uptight.
However, all of the banking terms and the ins and outs of what was going on just went right over my head, and I really had a difficult time reading the book....... I am sure it is just me, for one of my friends was raving about how great it was.
So if you are a Davis Bunn fan, check the book out and don't assume because it wasn't my cup of tea that you won't like it either. You may love it.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I hate to give a book a negative review. especially an author I like so well, but this was one I just couldn't get into. I always try to be honest in my reviews, so I shall be.
I thought the plot was a great one. The banking disaster a few years back is still fresh on everyone's minds, so it made a great plot. I liked the characters, though the main one seemed a bit odd and uptight.
However, all of the banking terms and the ins and outs of what was going on just went right over my head, and I really had a difficult time reading the book....... I am sure it is just me, for one of my friends was raving about how great it was.
So if you are a Davis Bunn fan, check the book out and don't assume because it wasn't my cup of tea that you won't like it either. You may love it.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2016
Wow! My only problem with The Domino Effect is that it is finished. I have not been so engaged with a book in a long time. I fully expected to turn on FOX News and see the events from Mr. Bunn's book being discussed as breaking news. This is a book that will make your heart race. I would certainly recommend not starting this book if you have any plans, you won't want to put the book down. I was hesitant to pick the Domino Effect up because it deals with the banking industry and I did not think that it was possible to write a thriller on banks. I enjoyed every minute of The Domino Effect and I hope Mr. Bunn writes more books with Esther and Craig. While their romance was subdued it did add to the story.
I was given this book by netgalley.com in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
I was given this book by netgalley.com in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
December 23, 2016
Review to come!
January 31, 2021
Whoops! I started this book believing it to be a financial thriller but found it to be disjointed and poorly written (kinda clumsy YA) to be honest. I do understand the markets more or less and found the economic explanations to be Wikipedia cut and paste. Then I found that the main genre on GR is "Christian Fiction". My bad...IMO, that genre (and Christian Rock) emanate from artists who lack talent but know they will sell their second or third rate product if they wrap themselves in the Bible. Moving on...
December 23, 2020
High marks for realistic, world-economy backdrop, for fast-paced, suspenseful plotline, and for being a clean read. Put this in the category of: "this could happen, if we don't do anything to prevent it."
November 23, 2016
Deb’s Dozen: A brilliant analyst, two scheming scoundrels, the world’s financial markets at stake.
Esther Larsen, a reticent but brilliant financial analyst, is very troubled. She and her team are the best and she is better than the best. She believes she has discovered a plot by her bank’s greedy president and its prime investor to make the bank rich at the cost of the crash of the world’s financial markets. Esther has never opened up to anyone other than her brother. But her brother is hospitalized in a fugue state and not expected to recover. Esther finally decides she has to share what she has found with the closest friends she has. What she discloses starts a domino cascade of events that could affect us all!
Davis Bunn has succeeded in producing a novel that will entrance, enthrall, entertain, and educate you while simultaneously scaring you to death at the possibilities. In today’s computer-driven world, where financial transactions take place in nanoseconds, the plot could very well happen. As always, Davis’s characters are well-developed, but flawed. You’ll love seeing Esther start to bloom from a personal as well as intellectual standpoint. You’ll love all his auxiliary characters too. The Domino Effect is one of those suspense-filled books you’ll not want to put down until the nail-biting finish. In my opinion, The Domino Effect is Davis’s best book to date. Five stars from me—my husband rated the book four-and-a-half stars because the story came to an end.
Davis Bunn, also known to fantasy and speculative fiction readers as Thomas Locke, is a prolific (over seven million copies sold) and much-awarded author. He has received the Christy’s Lifetime Achievement Award among many others. While he and his wife, Isabella, live part-time in Florida, he is also a Writer-in-Residence at Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford. Davis graciously shares his experience and wisdom at a variety of writers’ conferences around the country.
Bethany House provided me a copy of this book although I was in no way obligated to write a favorable review.
Esther Larsen, a reticent but brilliant financial analyst, is very troubled. She and her team are the best and she is better than the best. She believes she has discovered a plot by her bank’s greedy president and its prime investor to make the bank rich at the cost of the crash of the world’s financial markets. Esther has never opened up to anyone other than her brother. But her brother is hospitalized in a fugue state and not expected to recover. Esther finally decides she has to share what she has found with the closest friends she has. What she discloses starts a domino cascade of events that could affect us all!
Davis Bunn has succeeded in producing a novel that will entrance, enthrall, entertain, and educate you while simultaneously scaring you to death at the possibilities. In today’s computer-driven world, where financial transactions take place in nanoseconds, the plot could very well happen. As always, Davis’s characters are well-developed, but flawed. You’ll love seeing Esther start to bloom from a personal as well as intellectual standpoint. You’ll love all his auxiliary characters too. The Domino Effect is one of those suspense-filled books you’ll not want to put down until the nail-biting finish. In my opinion, The Domino Effect is Davis’s best book to date. Five stars from me—my husband rated the book four-and-a-half stars because the story came to an end.
Davis Bunn, also known to fantasy and speculative fiction readers as Thomas Locke, is a prolific (over seven million copies sold) and much-awarded author. He has received the Christy’s Lifetime Achievement Award among many others. While he and his wife, Isabella, live part-time in Florida, he is also a Writer-in-Residence at Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford. Davis graciously shares his experience and wisdom at a variety of writers’ conferences around the country.
Bethany House provided me a copy of this book although I was in no way obligated to write a favorable review.
October 24, 2016
If you are like me and came through the 2008 financial crisis bruised, battered, and barely standing then you may very well look at Davis Bunn's latest suspense novel as a work of horror. Could that nightmare really happen again? Could it be even worse this time around?
That is the scary yet all too plausible premise of The Domino Effect. Esther Larsen is a risk analyst at one of the largest banks in the United States. To say that she's unpopular with the upper management is an understatement. In fact they don't want to hear her assessments of their risky schemes. Esther is torn because not only is this her dream job but there are other factors that depend on her continuing with this path. But what if God has an even bigger and better plan?
There really is no one better suited to write this novel than Davis Bunn. He not only has the writing skills to bring us a fast-paced believable story but he also has the background to make it feel like it is ripped from today's headlines. And that my friends is what makes it so scary.
Davis Bunn uses the framework of the biblical Esther's story "for such a time as this" in a modern day format. Both Esthers have internal conflict and aren't sure they are up for the task before them. But once they stiffen their spine and choose to proceed with the course set before them they are filled with inner strength that can only come from God Himself.
Lest you worry that this is only a doom and gloom novel, let me assure you that there is much beauty among the growing ashes. There are multiple love stories mixed in and not all of them are romantic in nature but each one is very moving and inspiring.
If your book club likes to do suspense with a plausible and modern theme then this would be a perfect fit. I'm personally dying for my book club peeps to finish the book so we can discuss it!
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
That is the scary yet all too plausible premise of The Domino Effect. Esther Larsen is a risk analyst at one of the largest banks in the United States. To say that she's unpopular with the upper management is an understatement. In fact they don't want to hear her assessments of their risky schemes. Esther is torn because not only is this her dream job but there are other factors that depend on her continuing with this path. But what if God has an even bigger and better plan?
There really is no one better suited to write this novel than Davis Bunn. He not only has the writing skills to bring us a fast-paced believable story but he also has the background to make it feel like it is ripped from today's headlines. And that my friends is what makes it so scary.
Davis Bunn uses the framework of the biblical Esther's story "for such a time as this" in a modern day format. Both Esthers have internal conflict and aren't sure they are up for the task before them. But once they stiffen their spine and choose to proceed with the course set before them they are filled with inner strength that can only come from God Himself.
Lest you worry that this is only a doom and gloom novel, let me assure you that there is much beauty among the growing ashes. There are multiple love stories mixed in and not all of them are romantic in nature but each one is very moving and inspiring.
If your book club likes to do suspense with a plausible and modern theme then this would be a perfect fit. I'm personally dying for my book club peeps to finish the book so we can discuss it!
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
August 28, 2016
Esther Larsen, a leading risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, is becoming more and more convinced that she has uncovered a ticking bomb with the potential to overshadow 2008's market crash. And as her own employer pursues "investment" strategies with ever-increasing levels of risk, she becomes convinced she must do something. Yet what can one person really do?
The markets are edging closer to a tipping point--like the teetering first domino in a standing row that circles the globe. And when Esther does sound the alarm, she wonders if anyone will take her seriously. But as public support grows for her ideas, so does the desperation of those whose conspiracy of greed she seeks to expose. With global markets on the brink, and her own life in danger, Esther is locked in a race with the clock to avert a worldwide financial meltdown.
Unfortunately I didn't care for this book. The premise of the book was good. It got really bogged down with all the very detailed technical aspects of the stock market. Even after reading some of the technical stuff I didn't understand. I admit to skimming a lot of the technical stuff after awhile. I did enjoy the characters of the book. Esther was a very likable character. Actually I liked all the characters. The book could have been half the size without all the detailed market information.
I can't say I would recommend this book unless you want a lesson on the stock market and how it works. I don't like giving bad reviews. But I just couldn't get into this book. I have never read a book by this author before and probably won't ever again.
I received this book from the publisher for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
The markets are edging closer to a tipping point--like the teetering first domino in a standing row that circles the globe. And when Esther does sound the alarm, she wonders if anyone will take her seriously. But as public support grows for her ideas, so does the desperation of those whose conspiracy of greed she seeks to expose. With global markets on the brink, and her own life in danger, Esther is locked in a race with the clock to avert a worldwide financial meltdown.
Unfortunately I didn't care for this book. The premise of the book was good. It got really bogged down with all the very detailed technical aspects of the stock market. Even after reading some of the technical stuff I didn't understand. I admit to skimming a lot of the technical stuff after awhile. I did enjoy the characters of the book. Esther was a very likable character. Actually I liked all the characters. The book could have been half the size without all the detailed market information.
I can't say I would recommend this book unless you want a lesson on the stock market and how it works. I don't like giving bad reviews. But I just couldn't get into this book. I have never read a book by this author before and probably won't ever again.
I received this book from the publisher for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
August 24, 2016
Esther is a top notch risk analyst in a large bank. Unbeknownst to her employer, she has been working for seven years researching and documenting things that she believes could lead to a cataclysmic event. She feels very much alone in her concerns but soon finds that she isn’t the only one who has been wary. Like the Biblical Esther, was she raised up for such a time as this?
This book was so hard to put down! It is frightening in what it portrays. Many of us wonder if the money we’ve put away for retirement will really be there someday and this book shows how easily our country and the world could tumble into a deep depression. It was eery in that I could see these types of events happening.
I really liked Esther. She changed and grew a lot throughout the book. I enjoyed her interactions with two young girls very much. She had real empathy for them and their concerns. She cares for people and doesn’t want to see them hurt. She is an intelligent woman using her skills to help others even when it’s hard.
The storyline builds with increasing tension and urgency. I kept looking for a few minutes here and there to get a few more pages read. It was a fascinating read.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book for the purpose of this review. I was not required to make it positive. All opinions are my own.
October 23, 2016
As a farmer, I knew that making money was not a matter of hard work, nor were commodity prices based on product and demand. So when I picked up Davis Bunn’s new novel, I thought I had a rudimentary idea of what he would be talking about. Not so much. But Davis being the excellent writer he is, wrote the story in such a way that even those who do not have any idea of what he is talking about will understand the urgency, the risk of what goes on. And you will ever look at your investments quite the same way again.
Thank you to Ellen of Ellen Graf-Martin through her Nuts about Books program, and BethanyHouse, division of Baker Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this novel. I was given a free book .The opinions are my own.
Thank you to Ellen of Ellen Graf-Martin through her Nuts about Books program, and BethanyHouse, division of Baker Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this novel. I was given a free book .The opinions are my own.
October 21, 2016
Another timely must-have and must-read from Davis. And truly terrifying, too. Following in the footsteps of his first financial crisis series, The Reluctant Prophet, The Domino Effect is a sobering look at our country's financial state. We all ought to follow Esther's advice and get out of debt!
February 3, 2024
A thriller in the world of high finance (3 stars)
Esther Larsen is a brilliant risk analyst at a large bank. She's concerned about the fragile nature of the US and global economy, and decides to speak out publicly. But when this threatens to sabotage the billions that certain investment bankers are set to make with shady and speculative deals, suddenly she finds her life at risk. She needs to play a role akin to the Biblical Esther to save world economy from collapse, and to save herself.
The author has a background in finance, and in many respects Esther's character becomes a mouthpiece for his own concerns about the world economy, and the need for reform. As a result, a lot of the novel feels quite didactic, and even though there are efforts to dumb down the world of economics, some of it still went over my head, and this instructional goal becomes too heavy a burden for the plot to carry. Some will say that this important message is the novel's strength, and I see their point. But I picked up this book for an entertaining read first of all, not as a lesson in the world of high finance, and on the level of plot there's not really enough going on to carry the moral message the author wants to make. The action picks up in the final stages, but it is a little too late by then.
In addition there's a few implausible aspects (e.g. the main character gives speeches to large crowds and on TV but is afraid to say the same things to her own boss), and her relationship with a divorced man and his two daughters feels just too sappy and perfect. It wasn't a waste of time reading it, but it certainly wasn't what I was looking for, and as a novel it falls short in several areas. But as a serious warning about the dangers of speculative strategies employed by large banks, and the potential risks caused by algorithms and instant electronic deals, it's hits the mark.
Esther Larsen is a brilliant risk analyst at a large bank. She's concerned about the fragile nature of the US and global economy, and decides to speak out publicly. But when this threatens to sabotage the billions that certain investment bankers are set to make with shady and speculative deals, suddenly she finds her life at risk. She needs to play a role akin to the Biblical Esther to save world economy from collapse, and to save herself.
The author has a background in finance, and in many respects Esther's character becomes a mouthpiece for his own concerns about the world economy, and the need for reform. As a result, a lot of the novel feels quite didactic, and even though there are efforts to dumb down the world of economics, some of it still went over my head, and this instructional goal becomes too heavy a burden for the plot to carry. Some will say that this important message is the novel's strength, and I see their point. But I picked up this book for an entertaining read first of all, not as a lesson in the world of high finance, and on the level of plot there's not really enough going on to carry the moral message the author wants to make. The action picks up in the final stages, but it is a little too late by then.
In addition there's a few implausible aspects (e.g. the main character gives speeches to large crowds and on TV but is afraid to say the same things to her own boss), and her relationship with a divorced man and his two daughters feels just too sappy and perfect. It wasn't a waste of time reading it, but it certainly wasn't what I was looking for, and as a novel it falls short in several areas. But as a serious warning about the dangers of speculative strategies employed by large banks, and the potential risks caused by algorithms and instant electronic deals, it's hits the mark.
November 23, 2016
Fiction...or today's headlines?
I started The Domino Effect excited to read another Davis Bunn book but also wondering if it was going to be totally over my head. The world of high finance is something I know absolutely nothing about, except that there are a lot of crooks in high places. I needn't have worried. Once again, Davis Bunn has taken a hard to understand topic ripped from the headlines and made it understandable for even someone like me. Readers will find a word of caution, some sound advice, and a touch of hope within the entertaining pages of a novel.
The Domino Effect is a sobering and frightening look at today's financial world, and at those who control the world's money. It's also quite a fascinating retelling of the story of Esther, recognizable and yet different enough not to be cliched. The Domino Effect is a gripping story, hard to put down, the danger and excitement contagious. Davis Bunn has not neglected the romantic angle either, as Esther wades through difficult choices and loss, she finds a chance at love in a most unexpected place.
Fans of Davis Bunn will NOT want to miss this financial thriller, but I'll give you fair warning...you won't want to start The Domino Effect unless you have an afternoon free and clear to just read...you won't be able to do anything else once the story has you in its grasp...
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I started The Domino Effect excited to read another Davis Bunn book but also wondering if it was going to be totally over my head. The world of high finance is something I know absolutely nothing about, except that there are a lot of crooks in high places. I needn't have worried. Once again, Davis Bunn has taken a hard to understand topic ripped from the headlines and made it understandable for even someone like me. Readers will find a word of caution, some sound advice, and a touch of hope within the entertaining pages of a novel.
The Domino Effect is a sobering and frightening look at today's financial world, and at those who control the world's money. It's also quite a fascinating retelling of the story of Esther, recognizable and yet different enough not to be cliched. The Domino Effect is a gripping story, hard to put down, the danger and excitement contagious. Davis Bunn has not neglected the romantic angle either, as Esther wades through difficult choices and loss, she finds a chance at love in a most unexpected place.
Fans of Davis Bunn will NOT want to miss this financial thriller, but I'll give you fair warning...you won't want to start The Domino Effect unless you have an afternoon free and clear to just read...you won't be able to do anything else once the story has you in its grasp...
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
August 16, 2017
A Christian financial thriller that will keep listeners on the edge of their seats. In today's world economy, it's scary to imagine that this is closer to the truth than we want to believe. Esther Harding, a leading risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, is becoming more and more convinced that she has uncovered a ticking bomb with the potential to overshadow 2008's market crash. And as her own employer pursues "investment" strategies with ever-increasing levels of risk, she becomes convinced she must do something. Yet what can one person really do? The markets are edging closer to a tipping point--like the teetering first domino in a standing row that circles the globe. And when Esther does sound the alarm, she wonders if anyone will take her seriously. But as public support grows for her ideas, so does the desperation of those whose conspiracy of greed she seeks to expose. With global markets on the brink, and her own life in danger, Esther is locked in a race with the clock to avert a worldwide financial meltdown. This fast-paced suspense novel will make you wonder where the fiction ends and reality begins. . . .
July 19, 2022
Started and finished this book in one day and it was absolutely amazing. As someone that works in accounting and finance, I have almost never seen the things I actually work with in the books I read - unless it’s the usual, “city girl leaves her corporate job for a small town life and love” kinda deal. I am no stranger to the question of, “Accounting? Finance? Isn’t it boring?” It was beyond exciting to see the things I look at on a regular basis - like finances and investing - to be covered in such an in-depth and interesting manner. Almost like an approval in my head of what I already know: that it’s NOT as boring as you think.
This book was so refreshing, compelling, and just overall kept me reading. The relationships between characters plus the representation of my own life all combined to make this easily one of my new favorites. It was a complete change of pace from what I’m used to. Watching each character grow and seeing their mindsets change over time was absolutely amazing, and written very well.
I don’t usually write reviews, but I really felt the need to leave a short message on this one. PLEASE give it a read! You won’t regret it!
This book was so refreshing, compelling, and just overall kept me reading. The relationships between characters plus the representation of my own life all combined to make this easily one of my new favorites. It was a complete change of pace from what I’m used to. Watching each character grow and seeing their mindsets change over time was absolutely amazing, and written very well.
I don’t usually write reviews, but I really felt the need to leave a short message on this one. PLEASE give it a read! You won’t regret it!
December 20, 2020
Esther is a financial analyst at the 7th largest bank in the U.S. located in Charlotte, NC. She is a no nonsense woman whose mathematical abilities, bordering on genius, has helped her to reach a position of high responsibility in her job. Her personal life, however, has taken a back seat to her career. Her main personal concern as the story begins is the care of her bereft brother.
As Esther begins to grow wary of the financial maneuvering of her boss at the bank, she starts to speak out locally to groups of people warning them that a financial meltdown is impending. More and more people begin listening to her, and she gains the support of community leaders and investors in the Charlotte region. As it becomes evident that something very threatening to the financial livelihood of most Americans is happening behind the scenes (and possibly her bank is involved in the shady dealings), Esther grows increasingly alarmed.
As Esther begins to grow wary of the financial maneuvering of her boss at the bank, she starts to speak out locally to groups of people warning them that a financial meltdown is impending. More and more people begin listening to her, and she gains the support of community leaders and investors in the Charlotte region. As it becomes evident that something very threatening to the financial livelihood of most Americans is happening behind the scenes (and possibly her bank is involved in the shady dealings), Esther grows increasingly alarmed.
April 30, 2021
This is an incredible, heart-pounding, financial thriller!
I really liked Esther Larsen at the very beginning of the book. It was amazing how much more I loved her by the end of the story. She had grown and matured so much throughout the book. She learned how to see beyond her own like to those around her. She found she had a number of supportive people ready and willing to help her with each and everything that she faced.
The plot of this book was very intense. There were a lot of details given about how investing works. Most of this went beyond my ability to understand. But when I put aside the attempt to figure it all out the excitement only built a lot more for me. I was completely caught up in the story and HAD to see how things turned out for Esther and all of her friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
I really liked Esther Larsen at the very beginning of the book. It was amazing how much more I loved her by the end of the story. She had grown and matured so much throughout the book. She learned how to see beyond her own like to those around her. She found she had a number of supportive people ready and willing to help her with each and everything that she faced.
The plot of this book was very intense. There were a lot of details given about how investing works. Most of this went beyond my ability to understand. But when I put aside the attempt to figure it all out the excitement only built a lot more for me. I was completely caught up in the story and HAD to see how things turned out for Esther and all of her friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
August 20, 2023
Davis Bunn is a prolific author with several bestsellers. This book deserves to be added to his list of accomplishments. The story begins with a peek into the world of risk analysis in a large bank. The protagonist is a brilliant young woman named Esther who leads her own team in analyzing the risk factors of their bank’s investment decisions. She is also analyzing risks in her personal life. A troublesome childhood has made it difficult to forge friendships and her hospitalized brother depends on her for support. When Esther realizes that several banks are making foolhardy financial decisions she resolves to expose “the domino effect” that may cripple the world economy. This exposure could also cause the same effect in her own life. Esther’s risks cross the line from computer readouts to dangerous consequences.
Esther’s warnings are so clear the reader will wonder which parts of the book are fiction.
Esther’s warnings are so clear the reader will wonder which parts of the book are fiction.
June 14, 2018
Had never heard of David Bunn and read another of his books first. Only one other book was listed and then I Googled him and found TDE and a whole list of his other work--maybe different publisher than the first one I read. This book is super but also scary. Most of use peons know the big banks are too big but we feel the system is rigged against us for for them. Where is a real-life Esther to help us? Makes me want to cash out and buy a bigger mattress to hide my money in. Kidding but not really. I will be making some changes in my retirement investing though. After seeing Trump doing his best to wreck the world while enriching himself and his cronies, I won't trust that the big banks are not in league with him! Thought provoking book with a suspenseful plot.
January 8, 2018
I had read several of Bunn's thrillers years ago and loved them. I hadn't read anything of his for a while, and picked this up after someone recommended it. While the story had some interesting aspects, I thought the characters were lacking. Characters are portrayed one way only to have them do something completely different just a few chapters later. Numerous times, one character or another would do something or say something, and I'd think, "that seems so out of character for him/her based on what has already happened."
While the plot itself had some interesting turns, I can't really recommend this book.
While the plot itself had some interesting turns, I can't really recommend this book.
March 7, 2018
If you own stocks, or work in the banking industry, or a financial manager, or simply find anything to do with money fascinating, then you will probably like this book. But even if you are not a whiz at finances and have no idea what is a “risk analyst” don't rule this book out. I know little about the stock market but was still able to enjoy this novel about a woman who works at a large New York banking firm and uncovers devious strategies being put in place that could spell financial disaster for millions worldwide. But how to counter and stop the looming crisis is the question and which propels the story along.
May 19, 2017
This remarkable novel not only is suspenseful, but also exhibits extensive research into the financial world. Mr. Bunn, who has written many novels with female protagonists, continues this trend with a convincing Esther Larsen, a analyst at one of the country's largest banks. It would be easy to get down in the weeds with a book like this and indeed in a few pages we get more financial information than most readers will need. However, this also adds to the authenticity of the novel and convinces the reader that this plot is plausible. Let's hope this plot stays in the world of fiction.
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