What do you think?
Rate this book
Insects: Books 1, 2, & 3
A livewire set of thrillers for fans of Crichton, King and Cussler. A scientific expedition journeys deep into the remote Brazilian jungle in search of a career-making a carnivorous insect so rare that no team has ever confirmed its existence. But the rainforest's many unknown and mysterious dangers will make simply escaping the jungle alive far more difficult than anyone anticipated... Books 1, 2 & 3 includes three full-length novels (1000+ pages): Insects (Book 1): a team of scientists journey into the uncharted Amazon rainforest in search of a deadly, career-making the rare carnivorous insect reptilus blaberus. But when rising floodwaters cut the expedition off from civilization, the hunters soon become the hunted in the terror-filled night. The Hunted (Book 2): the team returns to a different part of the remote jungle again in pursuit of reptilus blaberus, this time accompanied by a reality TV production crew to fund, document and protect the expedition. Specimen (Book 3): the team attempts to continue its studies of reptilus blaberus under different conditions, but the carnivorous insect's lethal instincts aren't dulled by a change of scenery.
870 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2016
347 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 26, 2024
I had only intended to read Book 1 before moving on to something else, but... it's a pretty compelling story. Yeah, it's pure cotton candy, but sometimes I really like cotton candy. And that's what this is - a fun, thrilling kind of read that can be really hard to put down. And yeah, I'll be looking for Book 4 at some point.
January 5, 2018
4 stars
I needed something to clear out all the serious reading I’ve been doing and I love “creature features.” So I thought I’d give this trilogy a try. It was a blast! It was a purely fun read.
Dr. Howard Duncan seemed a little timid and naïve, but was a good character nonetheless. His lab assistant Boyd was level headed and mostly supportive of Duncan. The character of the guide fellow was wonderful. He was a native, but was likeable and very brave. (And handy to have around engines.) Professor Azevedo was a tragic character and should never have gone on the expedition, but it was his research and it was hard to turn him down. The rest of the part was okay and went along for the ride. There was a whiny guy, a rich woman and others.
This is an adventure story set in the Amazon jungle. The team is on the search for a new species of bug – a cross between a reptile and an insect. They are destructive little buggers (sorry), and eat flesh. The excitement begins! When a body is found at a remote homesite, the investigation begins. A second trip to the Amazon brings more characters and more tragedy. Smuggling some of the bugs back into the US brings with it a new set of problems. And just maybe some of them got away????
I was frustrated at the politics and the story was pretty predictable, but what fun. I stayed up past my bedtime to read more, just a few more pages!
I would like to read more of Mr. Koloen’s novels.
I needed something to clear out all the serious reading I’ve been doing and I love “creature features.” So I thought I’d give this trilogy a try. It was a blast! It was a purely fun read.
Dr. Howard Duncan seemed a little timid and naïve, but was a good character nonetheless. His lab assistant Boyd was level headed and mostly supportive of Duncan. The character of the guide fellow was wonderful. He was a native, but was likeable and very brave. (And handy to have around engines.) Professor Azevedo was a tragic character and should never have gone on the expedition, but it was his research and it was hard to turn him down. The rest of the part was okay and went along for the ride. There was a whiny guy, a rich woman and others.
This is an adventure story set in the Amazon jungle. The team is on the search for a new species of bug – a cross between a reptile and an insect. They are destructive little buggers (sorry), and eat flesh. The excitement begins! When a body is found at a remote homesite, the investigation begins. A second trip to the Amazon brings more characters and more tragedy. Smuggling some of the bugs back into the US brings with it a new set of problems. And just maybe some of them got away????
I was frustrated at the politics and the story was pretty predictable, but what fun. I stayed up past my bedtime to read more, just a few more pages!
I would like to read more of Mr. Koloen’s novels.
October 2, 2017
Having read the first in the series last year and geeking out to all the loveing sciencey, ecology, nature stuff, I just had to nab this when it came up in the kindle deals. And I am glad I did, even though the third in the series isn't quite as good as the other two, the collection as a whole makes for a great read. The first is still my favourite as it introduces the insects and has that definite in your face, gotta love the science factor to it which gets lost in the other two as the rest of the world gets involved in the hunt for blaberus. The writing does get a little clunky when it comes to the character interactions and the relationships away from the insects but since that's not what I love this for, I find myself being strangely forgiving of this. I do love those blaberus critters...don't think I want to meet any though, not without a full chainmail body suit.
May 6, 2018
Think Grade B Horror Film
As a trained entomologist and all-around buggy type person I could not pass up an opportunity to read Insects Volume 1, 2 and 3, especially for free. The premise is good-- insects are remarkable animals capable of feats beyond our wildest dreams and many are yet undescribed. Could insects present a serious threat? You bet they could and their story could result in an action packed thriller that makes your skin crawl.
That said, there were a number of technical errors and scientific and practical inconsistencies. The delivery--mostly dialogue-- was a bit wooden and lacked the descriptive filler that paints the story's picture. I read this as a single book in three parts and would recommend that approach. While each volume could stand alone weakly, I could not envision a compelling reason to go out and get the next volume.
Not a great book, but an OK to good one that fills time with some intense parts with enough credibility to keep you wondering. To me, it's kind of like a grade B horror film. Keep your expectations on the low end, and it's rather enjoyable.
As a trained entomologist and all-around buggy type person I could not pass up an opportunity to read Insects Volume 1, 2 and 3, especially for free. The premise is good-- insects are remarkable animals capable of feats beyond our wildest dreams and many are yet undescribed. Could insects present a serious threat? You bet they could and their story could result in an action packed thriller that makes your skin crawl.
That said, there were a number of technical errors and scientific and practical inconsistencies. The delivery--mostly dialogue-- was a bit wooden and lacked the descriptive filler that paints the story's picture. I read this as a single book in three parts and would recommend that approach. While each volume could stand alone weakly, I could not envision a compelling reason to go out and get the next volume.
Not a great book, but an OK to good one that fills time with some intense parts with enough credibility to keep you wondering. To me, it's kind of like a grade B horror film. Keep your expectations on the low end, and it's rather enjoyable.
September 18, 2016
I really wanted to like this series, and am sad that I didn't!
Pros:
- I loved the plot
Cons:
- I found the "dialogue" (constant petty arguing) between characters very tedious
- Speakers would change rapidly and frequently making the read jarring and confusing at times
- Also jarring were the chapter lengths, many were very brief (1-2 pages) and seemed distracting to me, made reading very fragmented
- I never grew to care about any of the characters, there were many, and poorly developed. I don't feel like I got to know them, or could identify with them
- I was bored almost the whole time
These were just my thoughts, I know there were other people who really enjoyed these books. =)
Pros:
- I loved the plot
Cons:
- I found the "dialogue" (constant petty arguing) between characters very tedious
- Speakers would change rapidly and frequently making the read jarring and confusing at times
- Also jarring were the chapter lengths, many were very brief (1-2 pages) and seemed distracting to me, made reading very fragmented
- I never grew to care about any of the characters, there were many, and poorly developed. I don't feel like I got to know them, or could identify with them
- I was bored almost the whole time
These were just my thoughts, I know there were other people who really enjoyed these books. =)
September 21, 2017
It has been a while since I have read a horror / thriller combination book, and this one didn’t disappoint at all. The author did a great job of quickly getting you into the scene, was graphic enough on the scenes to describe what was going on without grossing you out, kept you captivated, and, most important (to me, at least) was the plot lines were very believable and you could see something like this happening in real life. Many times, you felt as if you were right there.
The ending came to a logical conclusion and you could leave it at that or continue on with the next book in the series. I picked this up for free during a Kindle promotion vs. its normal price of $4.99 and I received more than $4.99 worth of entertainment value. If you enjoy a good thriller, I would recommend this one.
The ending came to a logical conclusion and you could leave it at that or continue on with the next book in the series. I picked this up for free during a Kindle promotion vs. its normal price of $4.99 and I received more than $4.99 worth of entertainment value. If you enjoy a good thriller, I would recommend this one.
September 9, 2017
Great Bargain
The first two books of this trilogy where so good I stayed up till 4 am reading them. All three books for 99 cents is a spectacular deal. Although the third book seemed like more of an afterthought it was enjoyable, just not as exciting and riveting as the first two. Reviewers disclaimer...I have owned an exterminating company for 35 years so the subject matter may have increased my enthusiasm for these books for there subject matter. I would also not be surprised to find a fourth book being written which considering how the third book ended could be better then the first two. Very well done Mr. Koloen.
The first two books of this trilogy where so good I stayed up till 4 am reading them. All three books for 99 cents is a spectacular deal. Although the third book seemed like more of an afterthought it was enjoyable, just not as exciting and riveting as the first two. Reviewers disclaimer...I have owned an exterminating company for 35 years so the subject matter may have increased my enthusiasm for these books for there subject matter. I would also not be surprised to find a fourth book being written which considering how the third book ended could be better then the first two. Very well done Mr. Koloen.
August 30, 2017
Speechless-awed,dare I open my mouth?
Is there a 4th final book in this series? Without a doubt it will be bought & become a permanent part of my library if there is. Never have I read an author who left me in so much awe of his wordsmithmanship. Duncan & his assistant Boyd are flawed humans but managed to survive. While the manner of death was uniquely detailed in the 1st book, the author wisely chose alternate means to describe the attacks later. Well researched, superbly written, dramatically presented, I'm grateful the series of 3 books ended so quietly.
Is there a 4th final book in this series? Without a doubt it will be bought & become a permanent part of my library if there is. Never have I read an author who left me in so much awe of his wordsmithmanship. Duncan & his assistant Boyd are flawed humans but managed to survive. While the manner of death was uniquely detailed in the 1st book, the author wisely chose alternate means to describe the attacks later. Well researched, superbly written, dramatically presented, I'm grateful the series of 3 books ended so quietly.
October 3, 2017
There are better things to read than this. If you're thinking about it, I'd go with something else. I got through all three books, but it was a struggle. The science is solid, but the writing (and editing) leave a lot to be desired. Very repetitive prose. I mean really, how many times do we need to hear the same facts about the insects and that one of the expedition guides wants to start his own guide business? Finally, all three books in the trilogy had very abrupt and disappointing resolutions.
May 17, 2017
Terrific!
Because I'm elderly, I don't usually read trilogies unless I can get the whole, finished product. That was the case with "Insect s", and I have to say it is one of the most well-written books I've read in quite a while. I realized as I was reading that even the "between the action" parts were keeping me interested. Well done, John Koloen!
Because I'm elderly, I don't usually read trilogies unless I can get the whole, finished product. That was the case with "Insect s", and I have to say it is one of the most well-written books I've read in quite a while. I realized as I was reading that even the "between the action" parts were keeping me interested. Well done, John Koloen!
June 20, 2017
I read the entire series of three books.
The premise was intriguing and the books should have been a great read. But there was far too much "filler", even repetitive fluff. I feel the story could have been told in one thriller volume that would have left me much more satisfied. As it is, I found sections boring and plodding. Immature writer, in my opinion.
The premise was intriguing and the books should have been a great read. But there was far too much "filler", even repetitive fluff. I feel the story could have been told in one thriller volume that would have left me much more satisfied. As it is, I found sections boring and plodding. Immature writer, in my opinion.
February 13, 2019
Nope, not my cup of tea
Got about 20% of the way through the book, not much happened, couldn't get into the characters, always a deal breaker for me. And the bugs weren't that scary. I suddenly thought to myself, "I could be reading Neil Gaiman". In other words, there are plenty of good books out there, time to try another.
Got about 20% of the way through the book, not much happened, couldn't get into the characters, always a deal breaker for me. And the bugs weren't that scary. I suddenly thought to myself, "I could be reading Neil Gaiman". In other words, there are plenty of good books out there, time to try another.
July 3, 2019
It reads a bit like a first draft, too many characters, and mostly flat at that. I liked the exploration element and the bugs were quite nasty, but it was bogged down with repetitive and boring dialogue. Maybe with some heavy editing it would make a fun read. I will end my journey with the first book.
April 25, 2019
First time I read a book about terrifying insects and this trilogy didn’t disappoint! Knowing there’s more in the series, I’m looking forward to see if they’ll be available for free like this trilogy was!
April 26, 2019
This series was heading towards a 4.5 star "B-Movie" review, and then I got to the 3rd book, which got into corporate bullshit and left me deciding not to buy #4 or onward.
Book 1 was a 5 star book
Book 2 was a 4 star book
Book 3 was a 1 star book.
Done.
Book 1 was a 5 star book
Book 2 was a 4 star book
Book 3 was a 1 star book.
Done.
May 14, 2019
A creepy, entertaining adventure
This book read a lot like a Michael Crichton story that was entertaining and engaging - and since it's about killer insects, also a little bit terrifying.
This book read a lot like a Michael Crichton story that was entertaining and engaging - and since it's about killer insects, also a little bit terrifying.
May 23, 2017
Worth a read
I actually enjoyed these books more than I thought I would. It was interesting, and more adventurous than scary. Although some parts were hard to read.
I actually enjoyed these books more than I thought I would. It was interesting, and more adventurous than scary. Although some parts were hard to read.
September 11, 2017
The first book, Insects, was great!! However, the next two, not so much.
Book 1 had a great mix of terror, characters, and Bugs.
Books 2 & 3 were mostly character stories, no terror or bugs.
Book 1 had a great mix of terror, characters, and Bugs.
Books 2 & 3 were mostly character stories, no terror or bugs.
September 18, 2017
Interesting
Writing not tops. Very predictable. Subject appears well researched and I learned a lot about it. Chosen because subject is not that common.
Writing not tops. Very predictable. Subject appears well researched and I learned a lot about it. Chosen because subject is not that common.
September 20, 2017
Koloen succeeded in writing a wonderful book. It is the perfect mixture of science, adventure, and drama with a satisfying ending.
September 26, 2017
Never look at a bug the same way!
Quick read,somewhat developed characters. You need to read books in order as they build on preceding story. Really it is one book.
Quick read,somewhat developed characters. You need to read books in order as they build on preceding story. Really it is one book.
December 16, 2017
The first book got me hooked and had to read the other two. I would like at least one more in this series. The insect are interesting and their attacks are pretty gruesome. I really enjoyed reading "Insects" and highly recommend it.
February 21, 2019
Disappointing. Very little action.
April 18, 2019
Enthralling!!
A book I couldn't put down! The suspense was what did it! And I found the location interesting. A good read!
A book I couldn't put down! The suspense was what did it! And I found the location interesting. A good read!
May 30, 2019
Excellent books. They are fast paced, easy enjoyable reading that keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times
May 31, 2019
I'm generally not into reading books on insects but I must admit I really enjoyed this series, so much that I'm getting the forth book.
June 14, 2019
Was a good set to read AS a set but was not good as stand alone books. The series was a great read however.
October 25, 2019
Excellent read
Very good book. Interesting, fast paced, humanistic and entertaining. Really enjoyed the premise of flesh eating, part reptile, part insect invading the jungle.
Very good book. Interesting, fast paced, humanistic and entertaining. Really enjoyed the premise of flesh eating, part reptile, part insect invading the jungle.
October 29, 2019
Predictable horror
Didn't enjoy these books found plot too predictable. Didn't read more that 15% in total. Others might find this series enjoyable. But wasn't for me.
Didn't enjoy these books found plot too predictable. Didn't read more that 15% in total. Others might find this series enjoyable. But wasn't for me.
November 27, 2019
This series started out awesome - great Eight Legged Freaks feel. But the second book was just OK and the third book was a bit of a disappointment.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews