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Central Galactic Concordance #1
Overload Flux
When the cure for a deadly disease is stolen, two misfits are all that stands between greed and intergalactic tragedy.
Luka Foxe can’t let anyone know about his secret mental abilities. Debilitated by their influence when faced with violence, the brilliant forensic investigator now only takes assignments involving theft. But when he has to hunt down a hijacked vaccine for a galaxy-wide pandemic, the tragic first clue is his best friend’s brutal murder.
Nightshift guard Mairwen Morganthur knows she must keep a low profile. The product of illegal genetic alteration, she’s a lethal weapon with no social graces. But when she’s tasked to protect a detective with frightening intuition, she finds herself falling for him even though he could expose her.
Racing to recover the cure for a galaxy-wide pandemic, Luka is surprised by his developing feelings for the capable-but-mysterious guard. And Mairwen may have to risk everything by revealing her identity, with deadly mercenaries hot on their tail.
Can the unlikely pair survive an interplanetary conspiracy long enough to save lives and find love?
Overload Flux is the first novel in the sweeping Central Galactic Concordance space opera series. If you like haunted characters, compelling mysteries, and interstellar romance, then you’ll enjoy Carol Van Natta’s epic tale.
Luka Foxe can’t let anyone know about his secret mental abilities. Debilitated by their influence when faced with violence, the brilliant forensic investigator now only takes assignments involving theft. But when he has to hunt down a hijacked vaccine for a galaxy-wide pandemic, the tragic first clue is his best friend’s brutal murder.
Nightshift guard Mairwen Morganthur knows she must keep a low profile. The product of illegal genetic alteration, she’s a lethal weapon with no social graces. But when she’s tasked to protect a detective with frightening intuition, she finds herself falling for him even though he could expose her.
Racing to recover the cure for a galaxy-wide pandemic, Luka is surprised by his developing feelings for the capable-but-mysterious guard. And Mairwen may have to risk everything by revealing her identity, with deadly mercenaries hot on their tail.
Can the unlikely pair survive an interplanetary conspiracy long enough to save lives and find love?
Overload Flux is the first novel in the sweeping Central Galactic Concordance space opera series. If you like haunted characters, compelling mysteries, and interstellar romance, then you’ll enjoy Carol Van Natta’s epic tale.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2014
115 people are currently reading
887 people want to read
About the author
Carol Van Natta
34 books314 followersCarol Van Natta writes science fiction and fantasy, including
Overload Flux, Minder Rising, Zero Flux, Pico's Crush,
and
Jumper's Hope,
the first five books in a space opera series;
In Graves Below (Magic, NM)
, a paranormal romance; and
Hooray for Holopticon
, a retro science fiction comedy. She shares her Fort Collins, CO home with a sometime mad scientist and various cats. Any violations of the laws of physics in her books is the fault of the cats, not the mad scientist. Be the first to know about new releases by signing up for her newsletter at bit.ly/CVN-news or read her blog at Author.CarolVanNatta.com, or find her on Facebook at CarolVanNattaAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
January 27, 2025
Audiobook Review
After being utterly riveted to the prequel, I was revved to dive into Overload Flux for more of the CGC world of suspense and intrigue in the future among the stars along with the sensational narration work of Nicole Poole.
Overload Flux introduced its main characters over a grisly murder scene. Neither are exactly what they seem with their psychic abilities that must be hidden particularly Mairwen Morganthur's. She can't be discovered, but the longer she acts as the clever and tenacious Luka Foxe's security, she is in danger of him figuring out her secrets long before he figures out who is behind the killing of his friends and what they knew that got them killed.
Luka's minder talent is a wild thing that he can barely control, but he has to if he is to function and figure out the truth. With Mairwen at his back and helping him control his psychic talent, even the dangers of a deadly conspiracy, won't get him off the trail.
Slowly, the pair make discoveries about the case and about each other even as someone races to stop them from discovering the truth.
This couldn't have been any more up my alley than it was. Psychic gifts, a futuristic setting, murder mysteries, actions and a slow burn romance. I was so into the story that I barely shut it off to go about my needed business.
Luka and Mairwen were amazing characters. He is vulnerable because his minder gift is messed up, but he is dedicated and intelligent. He's focused, but also kind. He is struck by Mairwen from the beginning when others overlook her. Once he knows the truth, he is not intimidated and completely respects her along with desperately hoping he can find a way to keep her with him. On the other side, Mairwen is keeping a dreadful secret. She is an augmented human with lethal abilities that are off the charts. She was taken and forced to become a secret government trained killer (or hunter as they are called). She got herself out of that by faking her death and taking on a new personal. She's hidden in the background terrified to draw attention to herself. Luka is like a colorful and bright star in her life and she can't resist him even though she fears he'll find out about her. Protecting him as he does his work tracking down the truth becomes more than a duty to her. He's showing her how to live and she never wants to lose him.
There were some wonderful action scenes and I loved those tight spots moments. There were some good twists. The futuristic setting and world were well drawn. All the elements of the book really worked for me and I love how it ended and the way the rest of the series seems to be laid out for the future stories.
As I said, Nicole Poole did the narration work and I loved her fabulous talent bringing not just the main characters to life, but giving the secondary characters their own sparkle so that I felt no disengagement from the story. Pacing, tone, emotions, accents, genders- all were amazing.
All in all, this was a sci-fi romance winner that I can whole-heartedly push at anyone who loves the genre particularly if you like a mystery and intrigue tossed in for good measure.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
After being utterly riveted to the prequel, I was revved to dive into Overload Flux for more of the CGC world of suspense and intrigue in the future among the stars along with the sensational narration work of Nicole Poole.
Overload Flux introduced its main characters over a grisly murder scene. Neither are exactly what they seem with their psychic abilities that must be hidden particularly Mairwen Morganthur's. She can't be discovered, but the longer she acts as the clever and tenacious Luka Foxe's security, she is in danger of him figuring out her secrets long before he figures out who is behind the killing of his friends and what they knew that got them killed.
Luka's minder talent is a wild thing that he can barely control, but he has to if he is to function and figure out the truth. With Mairwen at his back and helping him control his psychic talent, even the dangers of a deadly conspiracy, won't get him off the trail.
Slowly, the pair make discoveries about the case and about each other even as someone races to stop them from discovering the truth.
This couldn't have been any more up my alley than it was. Psychic gifts, a futuristic setting, murder mysteries, actions and a slow burn romance. I was so into the story that I barely shut it off to go about my needed business.
Luka and Mairwen were amazing characters. He is vulnerable because his minder gift is messed up, but he is dedicated and intelligent. He's focused, but also kind. He is struck by Mairwen from the beginning when others overlook her. Once he knows the truth, he is not intimidated and completely respects her along with desperately hoping he can find a way to keep her with him. On the other side, Mairwen is keeping a dreadful secret. She is an augmented human with lethal abilities that are off the charts. She was taken and forced to become a secret government trained killer (or hunter as they are called). She got herself out of that by faking her death and taking on a new personal. She's hidden in the background terrified to draw attention to herself. Luka is like a colorful and bright star in her life and she can't resist him even though she fears he'll find out about her. Protecting him as he does his work tracking down the truth becomes more than a duty to her. He's showing her how to live and she never wants to lose him.
There were some wonderful action scenes and I loved those tight spots moments. There were some good twists. The futuristic setting and world were well drawn. All the elements of the book really worked for me and I love how it ended and the way the rest of the series seems to be laid out for the future stories.
As I said, Nicole Poole did the narration work and I loved her fabulous talent bringing not just the main characters to life, but giving the secondary characters their own sparkle so that I felt no disengagement from the story. Pacing, tone, emotions, accents, genders- all were amazing.
All in all, this was a sci-fi romance winner that I can whole-heartedly push at anyone who loves the genre particularly if you like a mystery and intrigue tossed in for good measure.
My thanks to Tantor Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2019
This is the kinda sci-fi romance I'm looking for! Space battles, fire fights, secret genetic manipulation, futuristic tech I can just barely comprehend, psychic abilities, alien planets, and all that shit with a slow burn romance on top? You fuckin' kidding me?
December 20, 2021
Oh that epilogue! All those hints, clues and teasers! That was a great move to have me needing to read the rest of the series as soon as I possibly can Ms Van Natta.
Overload Flux is a well paced, action packed mystery tied up in a space opera bow. The story had so much depth, complex interwoven strands that together formed a wonderful whole. The world building was excellent, exposition guaranteeing that the prose flowed evenly, whilst understanding of the complex world and it's inhabitants was always maintained. I adored Luka and Mairwen these were two immensely likeable protagonists, each with their own secrets, who somehow managed to be perfect for one another. The way Luka managed to draw Mairwen out of her shell, to show her how to live, how to laugh and how to love, was simply wonderful.
This was also a story of how it can be the little things that truly make for a great love story. From the noticing of expressions, to food choices and grounding one another, it was never difficult to believe in the depth of feeling between Mairwen and Luka. There are adventures to partake in, puzzles to solve, danger to avoid and friends to be found in this delightful book that will definitely be one I will read again.
Overload Flux is a well paced, action packed mystery tied up in a space opera bow. The story had so much depth, complex interwoven strands that together formed a wonderful whole. The world building was excellent, exposition guaranteeing that the prose flowed evenly, whilst understanding of the complex world and it's inhabitants was always maintained. I adored Luka and Mairwen these were two immensely likeable protagonists, each with their own secrets, who somehow managed to be perfect for one another. The way Luka managed to draw Mairwen out of her shell, to show her how to live, how to laugh and how to love, was simply wonderful.
This was also a story of how it can be the little things that truly make for a great love story. From the noticing of expressions, to food choices and grounding one another, it was never difficult to believe in the depth of feeling between Mairwen and Luka. There are adventures to partake in, puzzles to solve, danger to avoid and friends to be found in this delightful book that will definitely be one I will read again.
December 12, 2018
A great book and great story!
I loved both Luka and Mairwen! Both flawed but extremly likable!
Luka is functioning better in society, while Mairwen is almost a robot. She's been altered on DNA level to make her a perfect killing machine, but, while she escaped, she's not able to interact with other people except on a most basic level. To make the bad situaition worse, she must hide her abilities and if wounded cannot seek medical assitance except, even here, on a most basic level. She goes into hiper-drive, she hears and smells better than any human, but it cost her body and if she exercise her ability for longer periods she can go catatonic.
Luka also has abilities, but they're not because of some DNA alteration - they're natural. He's a Minder, able to "read" and visualize a murder scene. But, after having pushed to hard his ability, he's having trouble controlling it. Every time he risk to overload and skip into a coma.
By chance Mairwen is assigned as a bodyguard to one of Luka's missions and so they notice each other. We do not have here a insta-love/lust, but steady growing awaress to each other and mutual ability to soothe their abilities when they go out of control.
Soon their trust in each other is total and with trust comes also feelings. Luka has advantage here, but poor Maiwen is bewildered! She doesn't know how to deal with emotions since they have been forcefully (and I mean by torture!) eradicated from her by the evil CPS (who's supposedly should help people, but...).
Luka is patient and supportive and slowly Mairwen comes out from her shell.
During all this they are thrown into several very dangerous situations on and off planet/s where Both their abilities hepl solving a very intericate murder/consipiracy.
I would have loved to know more about many things that were lelft unexplained, but I have hope that they'll be explained in the other books of the series!
I loved both Luka and Mairwen! Both flawed but extremly likable!
Luka is functioning better in society, while Mairwen is almost a robot. She's been altered on DNA level to make her a perfect killing machine, but, while she escaped, she's not able to interact with other people except on a most basic level. To make the bad situaition worse, she must hide her abilities and if wounded cannot seek medical assitance except, even here, on a most basic level. She goes into hiper-drive, she hears and smells better than any human, but it cost her body and if she exercise her ability for longer periods she can go catatonic.
Luka also has abilities, but they're not because of some DNA alteration - they're natural. He's a Minder, able to "read" and visualize a murder scene. But, after having pushed to hard his ability, he's having trouble controlling it. Every time he risk to overload and skip into a coma.
By chance Mairwen is assigned as a bodyguard to one of Luka's missions and so they notice each other. We do not have here a insta-love/lust, but steady growing awaress to each other and mutual ability to soothe their abilities when they go out of control.
Soon their trust in each other is total and with trust comes also feelings. Luka has advantage here, but poor Maiwen is bewildered! She doesn't know how to deal with emotions since they have been forcefully (and I mean by torture!) eradicated from her by the evil CPS (who's supposedly should help people, but...).
Luka is patient and supportive and slowly Mairwen comes out from her shell.
During all this they are thrown into several very dangerous situations on and off planet/s where Both their abilities hepl solving a very intericate murder/consipiracy.
I would have loved to know more about many things that were lelft unexplained, but I have hope that they'll be explained in the other books of the series!
October 13, 2020
.
3.5 rounded up.
Luka and Mairwen both have special powers. He can psychically interpret crime scenes etc. Her powers, however, were not hers at birth but forced on her by the Citizen Protection Service. She escaped them 4 years ago and hides herself as a low level security guard.
But that all changes in a matter of days after meeting Luka. Right from the start they are going down the rabbit hole of intrigue.
Evil pharmaceutical companies (no way... sarcasm) and who is friend and who is foe.
I liked that both MCs weren't perfect. They fell for each other pretty quickly, but it didn't feel forced to me. I liked that he was man enough to know that she was better as a fighter than him.
It was a hard book to put down.
safety is good
3.5 rounded up.
Luka and Mairwen both have special powers. He can psychically interpret crime scenes etc. Her powers, however, were not hers at birth but forced on her by the Citizen Protection Service. She escaped them 4 years ago and hides herself as a low level security guard.
But that all changes in a matter of days after meeting Luka. Right from the start they are going down the rabbit hole of intrigue.
Evil pharmaceutical companies (no way... sarcasm) and who is friend and who is foe.
I liked that both MCs weren't perfect. They fell for each other pretty quickly, but it didn't feel forced to me. I liked that he was man enough to know that she was better as a fighter than him.
It was a hard book to put down.
safety is good
January 20, 2015
I usually start a book that an author has requested me to read and review with a sigh because I usually just find the book okay and have to come up with something nice to say.
BUT NOT WITH THIS BOOK! It was fantastic from beginning to end. I loved how the two main characters are both damaged in different ways and find a safe haven with each other. I'm crazy about the ending of the book and can't wait to read the next book in the series. I would recommend this to any sci-fi, sci-fi romance or just plain romance readers.
BUT NOT WITH THIS BOOK! It was fantastic from beginning to end. I loved how the two main characters are both damaged in different ways and find a safe haven with each other. I'm crazy about the ending of the book and can't wait to read the next book in the series. I would recommend this to any sci-fi, sci-fi romance or just plain romance readers.
December 30, 2015
I really quite enjoyed this. Considering everything that takes place in this book happens in the span of a month at the most, it's a pretty wild ride. I found that the writing was pleasantly error free for the most part and had a smooth flow that kept me bobbing along nicely, though there were a few times when there was a bit of senseless "future speak" thrown in to complicate matters. Sometimes a rope is just a rope, it doesn't need to be a synth-flex bindcord to get the message across. However most of the time this wasn't an issue.
I also liked that the romance more often than not took a backseat to the plot and everything else going on and never felt forced in order to promote improbably abrupt sexy times (in fact there are no "on page" sexy times, this is definitely not an erotica masking as sci-fi romance). It was a nice change of pace to find that it took time for the main couple to build up to their eventual intimacy and that the author didn't resort to the rather overused and disappointing "hormonal meltdown at first sight" that seems to plague so many other stories. Usually I think that a month would be too short a time to create a believable relationship, but I think it works here because of the personalities involved and because of the unique circumstances they rapidly find themselves in, with the need to quickly learn to trust and depend on each other being key to survival.
I found the snippets we were fed about the larger world/ universe interesting and want to know more about how it all fits together. CPS (which seems to be this universes evil Psy-corp), how and why "psychic powers" seem to be pretty common, the Government possibly being corrupt and ineffectual, corporations having way too much power, how many worlds seem to have been colonised by just one nation but the "universal" languages are English and Mandarin Chinese. What that New Years Eve revelation really means. Etc..
All in all I'd say this is one of the better modern sci-fi romance novels I've personally read. It manages to find a nice balance between softer sentimental moments and rather dangerous action without getting bogged down in anything in particular. I'm a little bit sad the second novel involves a different set of characters purely because I liked Luka and Mairwen so much and could happily follow them solving crimes and getting a sort of HEA, but I'm sure I'll adjust (after I read their novella). I'd say give this a go if you like a little bit of love mixed in to a dangerous situation and don't need a lot of hard science explanations and techno-babble to sell you on the future setting.
I also liked that the romance more often than not took a backseat to the plot and everything else going on and never felt forced in order to promote improbably abrupt sexy times (in fact there are no "on page" sexy times, this is definitely not an erotica masking as sci-fi romance). It was a nice change of pace to find that it took time for the main couple to build up to their eventual intimacy and that the author didn't resort to the rather overused and disappointing "hormonal meltdown at first sight" that seems to plague so many other stories. Usually I think that a month would be too short a time to create a believable relationship, but I think it works here because of the personalities involved and because of the unique circumstances they rapidly find themselves in, with the need to quickly learn to trust and depend on each other being key to survival.
I found the snippets we were fed about the larger world/ universe interesting and want to know more about how it all fits together. CPS (which seems to be this universes evil Psy-corp), how and why "psychic powers" seem to be pretty common, the Government possibly being corrupt and ineffectual, corporations having way too much power, how many worlds seem to have been colonised by just one nation but the "universal" languages are English and Mandarin Chinese. What that New Years Eve revelation really means. Etc..
All in all I'd say this is one of the better modern sci-fi romance novels I've personally read. It manages to find a nice balance between softer sentimental moments and rather dangerous action without getting bogged down in anything in particular. I'm a little bit sad the second novel involves a different set of characters purely because I liked Luka and Mairwen so much and could happily follow them solving crimes and getting a sort of HEA, but I'm sure I'll adjust (after I read their novella). I'd say give this a go if you like a little bit of love mixed in to a dangerous situation and don't need a lot of hard science explanations and techno-babble to sell you on the future setting.
May 16, 2016
5/5; 5 stars; A+
This was a great example of high quality sci-fi romance. The romantic element wasnt the main focus, even though it was strong. The world building was interesting and believable. I am immediately going to buy the next one on the series because I dont want to leave this world!
This was a great example of high quality sci-fi romance. The romantic element wasnt the main focus, even though it was strong. The world building was interesting and believable. I am immediately going to buy the next one on the series because I dont want to leave this world!
February 4, 2015
Trouble is brewing, investigator Luka Foxe’s hidden mental talent is out of control, Mairwen Morganthur wants to remain an autonomous night shift guard and their only hope for survival lies in revealing their dark secrets and learning to trust one another in this action packed sci-fi romance.
Mairwen has hidden herself away from her enemies by hiding her extraordinary skills under the boring guise of a nightshift guard and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the story as this young woman is thrust front and center into the middle of a very dangerous investigation with the sexy Luka. Both have secrets that can make or break them emotionally and literally if others were to find out which makes things quite interesting as they look into the two deaths of Luka’s co-workers. Mariwen tries to keep Luka at arm’s length but the chemistry between them slowly simmers into a full boil the closer they have to work together. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning especially as they are quite different from most giving them a very mysterious air in this fast paced and smooth flowing plot full of action, suspense and romance.
Spine tingling anticipation builds throughout the story the closer they get to the answers they need and to spice things up even more as the danger escalates from quite a few different players, betrayals and some twists that keeps the reader guessing. There is never a dull moment amongst the stars as the well written scenes and details capture the imagination and the well orchestrated suspense and action draw the reader deeper into the story and refuses to let go. I must admit I pleasantly surprised just how fascinating the author’s world has turned out to be and the interesting epilogue certainly has me waiting impatiently to see what adventure this promising new series will boldly take me
Mairwen has hidden herself away from her enemies by hiding her extraordinary skills under the boring guise of a nightshift guard and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the story as this young woman is thrust front and center into the middle of a very dangerous investigation with the sexy Luka. Both have secrets that can make or break them emotionally and literally if others were to find out which makes things quite interesting as they look into the two deaths of Luka’s co-workers. Mariwen tries to keep Luka at arm’s length but the chemistry between them slowly simmers into a full boil the closer they have to work together. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning especially as they are quite different from most giving them a very mysterious air in this fast paced and smooth flowing plot full of action, suspense and romance.
Spine tingling anticipation builds throughout the story the closer they get to the answers they need and to spice things up even more as the danger escalates from quite a few different players, betrayals and some twists that keeps the reader guessing. There is never a dull moment amongst the stars as the well written scenes and details capture the imagination and the well orchestrated suspense and action draw the reader deeper into the story and refuses to let go. I must admit I pleasantly surprised just how fascinating the author’s world has turned out to be and the interesting epilogue certainly has me waiting impatiently to see what adventure this promising new series will boldly take me
December 8, 2014
I was give a copy of this book by the Author for an honest review .... always dangerous with me, but here I go honesty is what you'll get!!
I'm not going into all the blurb you can read it above :) Here goes ....
My interest was captured from the first page and didn't wane throughout it's a fast paced Sci-Fi romantic adventure of about 300 pages and I really enjoyed it. Thankfully it was well edited and I didn't find myself tripping over mistakes throughout - this is a pet peeve of mine.
The two main characters Luka and Mairwen are very likeable. He's a brilliant, sexy, sensitive guy but no pushover and She's a kick ass and take names kind of girl. There is no insta-love *thank goodness* but a gradual build up from a spark of attraction, to friendship and finally love - Aww!! *le sigh*
Both characters are emotionally damaged but manage to find their way whilst dealing with treachery, betrayal and general chaos lol!! There is no overwhelming passion but something of a more innate, believable nature, quite refreshing really.
I enjoyed the action, suspense and world building and although it had credible details of a glimpse into a possible future, it was not bogged down with too much complex, incomprehensible science and technology ... this is always a bonus for me.
This is the first book of a series and the epilogue has left me with a craving to find out what comes next!! There is no cliff hanger and this book can be read as a standalone - but me I want more!! I have a feeling the books will only get better.
Verdict - If you like intrigue, action and love with your Intergalactic Travel ... then this is the book for you!! Even non Sci-Fi lovers could easily read and enjoy this book .... a good entrance for anyone wanting to dip into the Sci-Fi pool.
Thanks Carol for this and my only other comment is I want book 2 yesterday :)
I'm not going into all the blurb you can read it above :) Here goes ....
My interest was captured from the first page and didn't wane throughout it's a fast paced Sci-Fi romantic adventure of about 300 pages and I really enjoyed it. Thankfully it was well edited and I didn't find myself tripping over mistakes throughout - this is a pet peeve of mine.
The two main characters Luka and Mairwen are very likeable. He's a brilliant, sexy, sensitive guy but no pushover and She's a kick ass and take names kind of girl. There is no insta-love *thank goodness* but a gradual build up from a spark of attraction, to friendship and finally love - Aww!! *le sigh*
Both characters are emotionally damaged but manage to find their way whilst dealing with treachery, betrayal and general chaos lol!! There is no overwhelming passion but something of a more innate, believable nature, quite refreshing really.
I enjoyed the action, suspense and world building and although it had credible details of a glimpse into a possible future, it was not bogged down with too much complex, incomprehensible science and technology ... this is always a bonus for me.
This is the first book of a series and the epilogue has left me with a craving to find out what comes next!! There is no cliff hanger and this book can be read as a standalone - but me I want more!! I have a feeling the books will only get better.
Verdict - If you like intrigue, action and love with your Intergalactic Travel ... then this is the book for you!! Even non Sci-Fi lovers could easily read and enjoy this book .... a good entrance for anyone wanting to dip into the Sci-Fi pool.
Thanks Carol for this and my only other comment is I want book 2 yesterday :)
February 16, 2016
Mairwen Morganthur lives undercover as a night watch guard, trying to hide from Citizen Protection Service (CPS) the organisation that bought her, modified her and made her the galaxy's most deadliest assassin. For four years she has been assumed dead to the CPS and she wants to keep it that way.
Then one night, she's called to work personal security for crime scene investigator Luka Foxe, who isn't all he seems and in that one chance encounter both their worlds get turned upside down.
No longer able to hide what she is from the intriguing and incredibly intelligent man, Mairwen decides that she needs to move on, find another place to hide, until she realises that Luka is awakening things in her that she never knew she was capable of, and being human again might just be achievable with Luka in her life.
So Luka's cause – finding the killers who murdered his friends – becomes her cause as she takes on the duty to guard Luka and keep him safe, from deadly merc crews, phychic kidnappers and deadly pharma companies intend on silencing him, and she also has to help keep him safe from himself when his own unique gifts threaten to put him in a coma.
This is a love story in space where two broken, talented and intelligent people get thrown together in a race to discover who is killing and stealing vaccine material from the transport company they both work for.
I enjoyed reading it, and might be interested in reading the rest, but the other books in the series focus on different characters in the Central Galactic Concordance universe.
4 stars out of 5 for Overload Flux.
Then one night, she's called to work personal security for crime scene investigator Luka Foxe, who isn't all he seems and in that one chance encounter both their worlds get turned upside down.
No longer able to hide what she is from the intriguing and incredibly intelligent man, Mairwen decides that she needs to move on, find another place to hide, until she realises that Luka is awakening things in her that she never knew she was capable of, and being human again might just be achievable with Luka in her life.
So Luka's cause – finding the killers who murdered his friends – becomes her cause as she takes on the duty to guard Luka and keep him safe, from deadly merc crews, phychic kidnappers and deadly pharma companies intend on silencing him, and she also has to help keep him safe from himself when his own unique gifts threaten to put him in a coma.
This is a love story in space where two broken, talented and intelligent people get thrown together in a race to discover who is killing and stealing vaccine material from the transport company they both work for.
I enjoyed reading it, and might be interested in reading the rest, but the other books in the series focus on different characters in the Central Galactic Concordance universe.
4 stars out of 5 for Overload Flux.
December 28, 2014
There are so many things I liked about Overload Flux. Action and intrigue make up most of the story. There are crime scene investigations, treks over a mystery planet, space battles and lots of jogging. Fast-paced, there is not an idle page in this book!
And there is romance. While not a huge part of the book, it is important aspect of the two main characters. Mairwen and Luka are two people with special abilities. Both have cursed their abilities in the past, but when Mairwen and Luka meet and work together, they find the reason and the ability to embrace their talents. I loved these characters. Mairwen is oh, so cool and extremely dangerous. Luka is brilliant, which I always like in a hero!
Part mystery, part science fiction, and part romance, Overload Flux is a fascinating imaginative read. 5 stars!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
And there is romance. While not a huge part of the book, it is important aspect of the two main characters. Mairwen and Luka are two people with special abilities. Both have cursed their abilities in the past, but when Mairwen and Luka meet and work together, they find the reason and the ability to embrace their talents. I loved these characters. Mairwen is oh, so cool and extremely dangerous. Luka is brilliant, which I always like in a hero!
Part mystery, part science fiction, and part romance, Overload Flux is a fascinating imaginative read. 5 stars!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
February 4, 2016LOVE this cover... and it's only 99p. *One-click*
January 15, 2015
Rule #1 when dealing with Mairwen? If she's quiet you're likely to get hurt. Badly. Absolute love for this book.
++++
Firstly, not as in love with that cover as I could be. I like Mairwen...but Luka looks too...not something. Not like he's been through enough maybe (Mairwen is, I think, in her mid-30's based on contextual data and Luka is in his late 30's/early 40's?). That's a minor gripe since I read this on my Tablet and only had a fleeting glance at the cover before I went to make this post.
Secondly, oh my shiny stars am I happy to read another scifi romance that pleases me. And let me emphasis the romance part of that category classification because Van Natta has both her characters spend time understanding what getting into a relationship--short term or otherwise--would mean for them both. Individually they operate fairly well considering they both harbor some pretty hefty emotional/psychological issues. Together...well those issues could be a bigger problem.
I appreciated the fact that Van Natta didn't have them jump into anything. They acknowledged their attraction, acknowledged they wanted something to happen, but also acknowledged that slow would be better. Mairwen is damaged - the training they put her through to make her what she is as well as what she had to do to escape, stunted her completely.
Thanks to some trick of fate Mairwen finds herself guarding Luka instead of her normal night shift security detail. Luka, to no one's surprise except perhaps Mairwen, delights in her company (and her competence, I can't stress that enough) and keeps requesting her as his partner (to Mairwen's obnoxious boss' anger). Fairly quickly they both realize the other is not quite what they seem, but whereas Luka wants to explore things and come to some sort of togetherness, Mairwen keeps warding him off. For good reason.
Dispassionately she recounts to Luka the various atrocities they committed upon herself and other children who met the criteria. Intellectually she knows these things were heinous, that she should feel something more, but at the same time part of their regime was to convince the children that emotion of any kind would lead to their death. In the five years since she..."graduated" (when around others or not in private places they refer to those days as "school", a small thing that one suggests and the other picks up on and remembers) Mairwen hasn't tried to reclaim those lost emotions, preferring to live an unnoticed, unremarkable, but entirely her own life.
A life that as her and Luka work to figure out who killed his friends and who seemed to have a much larger target they were aiming for, she wants to share with Luka. There was no big revelation moment or some grand gesture that he did. It would be easy to say he "wore her down" with his charm, his flirting, his almost insistence that they belonged together...but it was not really any of those things. It boiled down to one thing: he accepted her. He accepted her wry sense of humor. Understood that as delicate as she may have appeared she wasn't someone who asked for protection, but appreciated when he offered it as an equal.
For Luka he was attracted to her from the start, but was cautious. Both because of his abilities and because of his fragile state of mind. Any time he let himself get drawn into the crime scene it had the potential to consume him so completely he'd be left as little more then a vegetable. Mairwen helps push him through that, as first his anchor to reality and then as his sort of...toughening up trainer.
This review is a lot about them, but I also found a lot to enjoy about the world. I mentioned in some of my status updates (on Goodreads) how the lingo threw me for a loop. It took a little while for my head to get around it, but once I did it flowed seamlessly.
I look forward to there being more books in this universe - while things wrap up nicely for Luka and Mairwen, making this a nice stand alone in many ways, the author all but taunts the reader with "More Adventures to Come!" which I for one am waiting for most eagerly.
++++
Firstly, not as in love with that cover as I could be. I like Mairwen...but Luka looks too...not something. Not like he's been through enough maybe (Mairwen is, I think, in her mid-30's based on contextual data and Luka is in his late 30's/early 40's?). That's a minor gripe since I read this on my Tablet and only had a fleeting glance at the cover before I went to make this post.
Secondly, oh my shiny stars am I happy to read another scifi romance that pleases me. And let me emphasis the romance part of that category classification because Van Natta has both her characters spend time understanding what getting into a relationship--short term or otherwise--would mean for them both. Individually they operate fairly well considering they both harbor some pretty hefty emotional/psychological issues. Together...well those issues could be a bigger problem.
I appreciated the fact that Van Natta didn't have them jump into anything. They acknowledged their attraction, acknowledged they wanted something to happen, but also acknowledged that slow would be better. Mairwen is damaged - the training they put her through to make her what she is as well as what she had to do to escape, stunted her completely.
Thanks to some trick of fate Mairwen finds herself guarding Luka instead of her normal night shift security detail. Luka, to no one's surprise except perhaps Mairwen, delights in her company (and her competence, I can't stress that enough) and keeps requesting her as his partner (to Mairwen's obnoxious boss' anger). Fairly quickly they both realize the other is not quite what they seem, but whereas Luka wants to explore things and come to some sort of togetherness, Mairwen keeps warding him off. For good reason.
Dispassionately she recounts to Luka the various atrocities they committed upon herself and other children who met the criteria. Intellectually she knows these things were heinous, that she should feel something more, but at the same time part of their regime was to convince the children that emotion of any kind would lead to their death. In the five years since she..."graduated" (when around others or not in private places they refer to those days as "school", a small thing that one suggests and the other picks up on and remembers) Mairwen hasn't tried to reclaim those lost emotions, preferring to live an unnoticed, unremarkable, but entirely her own life.
A life that as her and Luka work to figure out who killed his friends and who seemed to have a much larger target they were aiming for, she wants to share with Luka. There was no big revelation moment or some grand gesture that he did. It would be easy to say he "wore her down" with his charm, his flirting, his almost insistence that they belonged together...but it was not really any of those things. It boiled down to one thing: he accepted her. He accepted her wry sense of humor. Understood that as delicate as she may have appeared she wasn't someone who asked for protection, but appreciated when he offered it as an equal.
For Luka he was attracted to her from the start, but was cautious. Both because of his abilities and because of his fragile state of mind. Any time he let himself get drawn into the crime scene it had the potential to consume him so completely he'd be left as little more then a vegetable. Mairwen helps push him through that, as first his anchor to reality and then as his sort of...toughening up trainer.
This review is a lot about them, but I also found a lot to enjoy about the world. I mentioned in some of my status updates (on Goodreads) how the lingo threw me for a loop. It took a little while for my head to get around it, but once I did it flowed seamlessly.
I look forward to there being more books in this universe - while things wrap up nicely for Luka and Mairwen, making this a nice stand alone in many ways, the author all but taunts the reader with "More Adventures to Come!" which I for one am waiting for most eagerly.
January 9, 2015
Originally posted on my blog, LoveBooksandBlush.
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love reading science fiction and fantasy books above all genres. The recent book I’ve picked up, Overload Flux, by Carol Van Natta, is the former. This novel takes place in the far-off future, where interstellar travel between planets and planet colonizations are deemed normal. The main characters of this novel are a crime scene investigator, Luka Foxe, and a seemingly innocuous night-shift guard, Mariwen Morganthur. Mariwen is posted as security for Luka as he investigates the death of two of his friends. To Luka, Mariwen seems to be much more capable than any of his former security. Luka requests for her to be assigned to him while his work progresses. The investigation puts both Luka and Mariwen in danger, while a romance grows between the two and each of their special abilities are confessed to one another.
There are a few good things about this novel and reasons why I suggest you give it a chance. The overall plot of the story is interesting. It is a homicide investigation initially, but things soon spiral out of control. We learn that the deaths have deeper complications, and we also learn a lot more about Luka and Mariwen and what makes them different from other people.
Another component of the novel I liked were the main characters themselves. Luka and Mariwen are well developed characters with their own motivations. Luka is capable, brilliant and caring. Mariwen is tough, distant and skilled. They are great characters that carry the novel. They make the reader want to know more about them and hope for their success.
However, the romance in this book is okay, not incredibly well done or poorly done but somewhere in between. I liked Luka and Mariwen on their own, but I found their relationship to be a bit rushed and unbelieveable. They meet each other and seem to immediately tell each other their secrets. I understand that they are both attracted to one another, but I found their relationship to be a bit contrived instead of natural and honest.
While there are a few good things about this novel, there are a number of things I disliked and felt dragged the story down. For instance, I thought there was too much technological jargon that didn’t make any sense to me. The author doesn’t explain what those phrases mean either. What does overload flux even mean, for instance? Maybe it was in there somewhere and I just missed it, but the random words that were obviously written to depict future slang annoyed me. I want to know what things mean and don’t want to just skim by a technological word that I don’t understand.
I also felt that the first half of the story was too slow. The investigation is agonizingly sluggish and it takes a while for the story to pick up. Even when the characters are on another planet due to a failure in their plans, there isn’t as much action as I’d like.
This story has good points and bad points, and I didn’t entirely hate it or completely fall in love with it. I’d suggest you read it if you’re a science fiction fan who wants romance, but only if you don’t mind slower paced stories. I give this novel a 3/5 because of my lukewarm liking of the novel.
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love reading science fiction and fantasy books above all genres. The recent book I’ve picked up, Overload Flux, by Carol Van Natta, is the former. This novel takes place in the far-off future, where interstellar travel between planets and planet colonizations are deemed normal. The main characters of this novel are a crime scene investigator, Luka Foxe, and a seemingly innocuous night-shift guard, Mariwen Morganthur. Mariwen is posted as security for Luka as he investigates the death of two of his friends. To Luka, Mariwen seems to be much more capable than any of his former security. Luka requests for her to be assigned to him while his work progresses. The investigation puts both Luka and Mariwen in danger, while a romance grows between the two and each of their special abilities are confessed to one another.
There are a few good things about this novel and reasons why I suggest you give it a chance. The overall plot of the story is interesting. It is a homicide investigation initially, but things soon spiral out of control. We learn that the deaths have deeper complications, and we also learn a lot more about Luka and Mariwen and what makes them different from other people.
Another component of the novel I liked were the main characters themselves. Luka and Mariwen are well developed characters with their own motivations. Luka is capable, brilliant and caring. Mariwen is tough, distant and skilled. They are great characters that carry the novel. They make the reader want to know more about them and hope for their success.
However, the romance in this book is okay, not incredibly well done or poorly done but somewhere in between. I liked Luka and Mariwen on their own, but I found their relationship to be a bit rushed and unbelieveable. They meet each other and seem to immediately tell each other their secrets. I understand that they are both attracted to one another, but I found their relationship to be a bit contrived instead of natural and honest.
While there are a few good things about this novel, there are a number of things I disliked and felt dragged the story down. For instance, I thought there was too much technological jargon that didn’t make any sense to me. The author doesn’t explain what those phrases mean either. What does overload flux even mean, for instance? Maybe it was in there somewhere and I just missed it, but the random words that were obviously written to depict future slang annoyed me. I want to know what things mean and don’t want to just skim by a technological word that I don’t understand.
I also felt that the first half of the story was too slow. The investigation is agonizingly sluggish and it takes a while for the story to pick up. Even when the characters are on another planet due to a failure in their plans, there isn’t as much action as I’d like.
This story has good points and bad points, and I didn’t entirely hate it or completely fall in love with it. I’d suggest you read it if you’re a science fiction fan who wants romance, but only if you don’t mind slower paced stories. I give this novel a 3/5 because of my lukewarm liking of the novel.
July 19, 2016
Originally published at West Coast Book Reviews.
I loved the finesse with which Van Natta handles Mairwen and Luka's individual back-stories. Their motivations and challenges are there, clear and sufficient, without overwhelming. There's just enough to explain and engage with Mairwen and Luka without dumping too much emphasis on previous events. It's handled in such a quiet way that every time there's a little more the plot moves forward, not the other way.
I also really enjoyed the subtle humour I found ever present. As little as a few words or the smallest change in facial expression made the dialogue real and relatable and I found myself connecting more and more with Mairwen and Luka. Too many times I've read SFR with overdone violence or straight to the bedroom smut and the relationship between the H/h is lost to the flash and bang. Luka and Mairwen come across as very genuine and their relationship builds in solid layers.
Van Natta's tech is both simple (in that it's reasonable and makes sense) and powerful (in that it's reasonable and makes sense. Her names both for super gadgets and plain old household items tell us exactly what it is and what it does without losing me in any need for weighty description.
Finally, it was so refreshing to see a H/h pair somewhat close in age to my own. They had a respect and maturity we don't usually see in romances set around twenty-somethings. It was nice to see them being good together without unnecessary drama centered around eye-rolling juvenile behaviour. I'm glad they have a follow-up novella together as I will miss them. I must admit to a small amount of trepidation getting in to the sequel, Minder Rising, since I'm so fond of Mairwen and Luka but I'm also happily in to Van Natta's well built Galactic Concordance world and look forward to experiencing more.
FYI: New favourite space-ish curse word is "cluster bucket"
If you're new to SFR or a hopeless addict I think you'll find Overload Flux to be a good find. Definitely recommended.
I loved the finesse with which Van Natta handles Mairwen and Luka's individual back-stories. Their motivations and challenges are there, clear and sufficient, without overwhelming. There's just enough to explain and engage with Mairwen and Luka without dumping too much emphasis on previous events. It's handled in such a quiet way that every time there's a little more the plot moves forward, not the other way.
I also really enjoyed the subtle humour I found ever present. As little as a few words or the smallest change in facial expression made the dialogue real and relatable and I found myself connecting more and more with Mairwen and Luka. Too many times I've read SFR with overdone violence or straight to the bedroom smut and the relationship between the H/h is lost to the flash and bang. Luka and Mairwen come across as very genuine and their relationship builds in solid layers.
Van Natta's tech is both simple (in that it's reasonable and makes sense) and powerful (in that it's reasonable and makes sense. Her names both for super gadgets and plain old household items tell us exactly what it is and what it does without losing me in any need for weighty description.
Finally, it was so refreshing to see a H/h pair somewhat close in age to my own. They had a respect and maturity we don't usually see in romances set around twenty-somethings. It was nice to see them being good together without unnecessary drama centered around eye-rolling juvenile behaviour. I'm glad they have a follow-up novella together as I will miss them. I must admit to a small amount of trepidation getting in to the sequel, Minder Rising, since I'm so fond of Mairwen and Luka but I'm also happily in to Van Natta's well built Galactic Concordance world and look forward to experiencing more.
FYI: New favourite space-ish curse word is "cluster bucket"
If you're new to SFR or a hopeless addict I think you'll find Overload Flux to be a good find. Definitely recommended.
December 25, 2014
I was offered a copy of this to read and review as I do occasionally enjoy a sci fi romance but I got a whole lot more than I was expecting with this book. First of all it's a good full length which I really appreciated and then of course there is the fact that it's a riveting storyline . Add to this complex characters with truly amazing talents and abilities and im sure that many readers will be rendered speechless at the complexities of this book.
This book features two very different main characters , on one side we have Mairwen a trained killer who has been hiding in plain sight whilst acting as a night time security guard. Her life takes a turn when her new " assignment" requests that she assist him with his ongoing investigation and Mairwen struggles to keep her training and enhanced abilities a secret. Then we have the investigator Luka Foxe, a man with his own secrets. He has the uncanny ability to be able to recreate crime scenes in his head and it's something that is tearing him apart. I cannot imagine how truly horrendous it would be to see foul events play out in my imagination but this brilliant , honourable man has to live with that. He is a man on the edge as his talent is out of control but to avenge his recently deceased friends he will need to dig deep . Luckily Mairwen is no slouch and as they learn slowly to trust each other a mutual respect occurs .
This was an amazing adventure and really brought a possible future to life. Unfortunately greed and avarice are still very much a part of life with corruption not too far behind. In a world where pharmaceutical and chemical companies have perfected unbelievable strides we see two damaged people with their backs against the wall but they are determined to do the right thing. I did really enjoy this story but as I'm a hopeless romantic I just wanted perhaps a little more romance. Nevertheless it was a fabulous read and I happily recommend this authors work
This book features two very different main characters , on one side we have Mairwen a trained killer who has been hiding in plain sight whilst acting as a night time security guard. Her life takes a turn when her new " assignment" requests that she assist him with his ongoing investigation and Mairwen struggles to keep her training and enhanced abilities a secret. Then we have the investigator Luka Foxe, a man with his own secrets. He has the uncanny ability to be able to recreate crime scenes in his head and it's something that is tearing him apart. I cannot imagine how truly horrendous it would be to see foul events play out in my imagination but this brilliant , honourable man has to live with that. He is a man on the edge as his talent is out of control but to avenge his recently deceased friends he will need to dig deep . Luckily Mairwen is no slouch and as they learn slowly to trust each other a mutual respect occurs .
This was an amazing adventure and really brought a possible future to life. Unfortunately greed and avarice are still very much a part of life with corruption not too far behind. In a world where pharmaceutical and chemical companies have perfected unbelievable strides we see two damaged people with their backs against the wall but they are determined to do the right thing. I did really enjoy this story but as I'm a hopeless romantic I just wanted perhaps a little more romance. Nevertheless it was a fabulous read and I happily recommend this authors work
December 22, 2014
My expectations were low when I started Overload Flux. It did not take me long to realize how wrong those expectations were. Overload Flux is a riveting adventure that brings two very interesting characters together with unexpected results.
Luka Foxe reached too low on a case and now cannot turn his talent off. Mairwen Morganthur is living as low key a life as she can after escaping from the Citizen Protection Service. When Mairwen is assigned as security to Luka things begin to happen.
I loved both Luka and Mairwen. Mairwen is still struggling to learn how to live in the outside world. Luka is struggling with his talent. It is a surprise to both when Mairwen serves as a calming agent to Lukas. That fact makes Luka want to keep Mairwen near. It does take some persuasion on Luka’s part to make that happen.
The story is a mystery set in a Science Fiction environment. As the book progresses romance develops between Luka and Mairwen. It is skillfully woven into the plot and just becomes one more element in this very well-written book. Luka and Mairwen solve the mystery but the last chapter let’s we the readers know that there is a much bigger problem than could destroy everything. The Ayorinn Forecast played a part in Overload Flux even though we did not learn of it until the very last chapter.
I am hoping for future books set in the Central Galactic Concordance Universe.
Luka Foxe reached too low on a case and now cannot turn his talent off. Mairwen Morganthur is living as low key a life as she can after escaping from the Citizen Protection Service. When Mairwen is assigned as security to Luka things begin to happen.
I loved both Luka and Mairwen. Mairwen is still struggling to learn how to live in the outside world. Luka is struggling with his talent. It is a surprise to both when Mairwen serves as a calming agent to Lukas. That fact makes Luka want to keep Mairwen near. It does take some persuasion on Luka’s part to make that happen.
The story is a mystery set in a Science Fiction environment. As the book progresses romance develops between Luka and Mairwen. It is skillfully woven into the plot and just becomes one more element in this very well-written book. Luka and Mairwen solve the mystery but the last chapter let’s we the readers know that there is a much bigger problem than could destroy everything. The Ayorinn Forecast played a part in Overload Flux even though we did not learn of it until the very last chapter.
I am hoping for future books set in the Central Galactic Concordance Universe.
December 12, 2018
This review is for the audiobook edition of Overload Flux and at the same time is my re-read review for this book as I read the book version earlier this year before re-reading it in audiobook.
I don't think I could've picked a better book for my first audiobook. Not only did I love Overload Flux when I first read it earlier this year, but the narrator did such a good job with the narration. I think I actually loved it even more than the first time I read it.
Overload Flux is the first book in this series and probably my favorite book in the series so far, so I was happy to be able to re-read it an experience the story in a whole different way with the audiobook version. As I already knew the big lines of the story I was able to slip easily into the story and focus in the narration and what it added to the book. I am happy I picked a re-read for my first audiobook as it made it easier to get used to the audiobook format.
I just love this book, the story of Mairwen and Luka is just awesome. It's full of adventure, mystery and a great romance. I was again impressed by how well the author blended the different elements together, the romance is a strong part of the book, but the story is just a strong and they don't overshadow each other. I enjoyed the story and I seeing Luka and Mariwen get to know each other and how Luka struggles with his talent. I love reading about these characters.
I love Luka and Mairwan together and I fell in love with their story all over again. There were scenes earlier on that help even more significance knowing what would happen next and I also enjoyed seeing side characters that I already knew who they were and being able to see some early hints to their personality. And I was all anew surprised by how well one of the characters kept their true motivations hidden. Even knowing how things turned out I wans't able to see many hints the other characters could've picked up.
With the re-read I was also able to follow the story and mystery part a lot better. Or maybe that's because of the audio format, who knows. I remember with the ebook version I lost track of some threads a bit and wasn't able to connect them as good. While now with the re-read I easily kept everything in my head and noticed how things connected and found the resolution a lot stronger because of that. I also like being able to see the set-up and hints to the bigger storyline that runs throughout the story.
I do think the few chapters of one of the evil guys (if you can really call her that) didn't add as much as we never really see her actions on what happens. The chapter from Eve and Gheer's point of view were great tough and added information.
The narration was so well done. I obviously have nothing to compare it to as this is the first audiobook I listened too, but I listened to quite some samples of other audiobooks before deciding to listen to this one. I found the narration easy to follow, I rarely had to rewind because I missed anything. And I find the narrator's voice pleasant to listen to. I am impressed by the way she gives each character a different voice and she does the accents really well too. I never could've imaged how a narration could add to a character, but it does. And I found that Nicole Poole manages to let the characters personality shine through in their voice. I liked Mairwen's voice immediately as it suited her. I had it get used to Luka's voice for a bit, but quickly found it really fit him.
Once strange thing I noticed was how the Icelandic words are a lot harder to interpret now that I heard them and not saw them. The spelling made it easy to determine what he said most of the times, but in the audio version his accent sounds way more foreign and I needed the context to figure out what he said, which the author always provides so that was no issue. I liked hearing how the Icelandic words sounded, so that was a definite benefit of the audio version. Another strange thing I noticed is that I have no clue what anyone's names look like, which sounds weird, but hearing and seeing them is different enough that if not for having read the book first I would have no clue how to write any of their names at all.
When reading a book I don't really image the character's voices as well if at all, I found that the audiobook really adds a different dimension to the story by being able to hear the voices of the characters. And how they emotions and thoughts shine through in the way they say things. Like when Luka spoke to Miarwen in endearments, you could hear his feelings shine through in his voice, which was great.
To summarize: I loved re-reading this book and listening to the audiobook edition. I think I enjoyed it even more than my first read and this already is one of my favorite books of this year. The audio really added an extra dimension to the story and as I had already read the book once I was able to see more of the foreshadowing and importance of some of the events, which was fun. I fell in love all over again with this story and plan to listen to the rest of the series next. The narrator did an awesome job with the narration. I liked how she did the voices for the characters and how being able to hear their voices added something to the story. I also thought she did the accents really well. All in all I count my first audiobook a big success. I not only got to experience one of my favorite reads of the year another time, but also am convinced that I enjoy audiobooks and plan to listen to more of them.
I don't think I could've picked a better book for my first audiobook. Not only did I love Overload Flux when I first read it earlier this year, but the narrator did such a good job with the narration. I think I actually loved it even more than the first time I read it.
Overload Flux is the first book in this series and probably my favorite book in the series so far, so I was happy to be able to re-read it an experience the story in a whole different way with the audiobook version. As I already knew the big lines of the story I was able to slip easily into the story and focus in the narration and what it added to the book. I am happy I picked a re-read for my first audiobook as it made it easier to get used to the audiobook format.
I just love this book, the story of Mairwen and Luka is just awesome. It's full of adventure, mystery and a great romance. I was again impressed by how well the author blended the different elements together, the romance is a strong part of the book, but the story is just a strong and they don't overshadow each other. I enjoyed the story and I seeing Luka and Mariwen get to know each other and how Luka struggles with his talent. I love reading about these characters.
I love Luka and Mairwan together and I fell in love with their story all over again. There were scenes earlier on that help even more significance knowing what would happen next and I also enjoyed seeing side characters that I already knew who they were and being able to see some early hints to their personality. And I was all anew surprised by how well one of the characters kept their true motivations hidden. Even knowing how things turned out I wans't able to see many hints the other characters could've picked up.
With the re-read I was also able to follow the story and mystery part a lot better. Or maybe that's because of the audio format, who knows. I remember with the ebook version I lost track of some threads a bit and wasn't able to connect them as good. While now with the re-read I easily kept everything in my head and noticed how things connected and found the resolution a lot stronger because of that. I also like being able to see the set-up and hints to the bigger storyline that runs throughout the story.
I do think the few chapters of one of the evil guys (if you can really call her that) didn't add as much as we never really see her actions on what happens. The chapter from Eve and Gheer's point of view were great tough and added information.
The narration was so well done. I obviously have nothing to compare it to as this is the first audiobook I listened too, but I listened to quite some samples of other audiobooks before deciding to listen to this one. I found the narration easy to follow, I rarely had to rewind because I missed anything. And I find the narrator's voice pleasant to listen to. I am impressed by the way she gives each character a different voice and she does the accents really well too. I never could've imaged how a narration could add to a character, but it does. And I found that Nicole Poole manages to let the characters personality shine through in their voice. I liked Mairwen's voice immediately as it suited her. I had it get used to Luka's voice for a bit, but quickly found it really fit him.
Once strange thing I noticed was how the Icelandic words are a lot harder to interpret now that I heard them and not saw them. The spelling made it easy to determine what he said most of the times, but in the audio version his accent sounds way more foreign and I needed the context to figure out what he said, which the author always provides so that was no issue. I liked hearing how the Icelandic words sounded, so that was a definite benefit of the audio version. Another strange thing I noticed is that I have no clue what anyone's names look like, which sounds weird, but hearing and seeing them is different enough that if not for having read the book first I would have no clue how to write any of their names at all.
When reading a book I don't really image the character's voices as well if at all, I found that the audiobook really adds a different dimension to the story by being able to hear the voices of the characters. And how they emotions and thoughts shine through in the way they say things. Like when Luka spoke to Miarwen in endearments, you could hear his feelings shine through in his voice, which was great.
To summarize: I loved re-reading this book and listening to the audiobook edition. I think I enjoyed it even more than my first read and this already is one of my favorite books of this year. The audio really added an extra dimension to the story and as I had already read the book once I was able to see more of the foreshadowing and importance of some of the events, which was fun. I fell in love all over again with this story and plan to listen to the rest of the series next. The narrator did an awesome job with the narration. I liked how she did the voices for the characters and how being able to hear their voices added something to the story. I also thought she did the accents really well. All in all I count my first audiobook a big success. I not only got to experience one of my favorite reads of the year another time, but also am convinced that I enjoy audiobooks and plan to listen to more of them.
December 29, 2018
Wow, fast paced story! I found the beginning a bit confusing with the deaths of investigators but once I got into the story, it hooked me! Good story line and great characters!
2nd reading! Mairwen and Luka are my favorite couple of the series!
2nd reading! Mairwen and Luka are my favorite couple of the series!
February 6, 2017
Very enjoyable. I look forward to more by this author.
April 28, 2018
Overload Flux was such a great read with the perfect mix of romance, complex characters, a solid story and an awesome sci-fi world that came alive. I first heard of Carol Van Natta when I read Pets Trade in the Pets in Space 2 anthology. Ever since I've been meaning to check out more of her books and I finally decided to buy the box set containing the first 3 books in this series. Before I finished Overload Flux I had bought the rest of the series available at the moment as that's how good this book was.
When Overload Flux starts we get introduced to night shift guard Mairwen, quickly it's obvious there is more to her than meets the eye. What seemed like just another normal job for her turns into much more than she anticipated. While at first it was a bit hard to get into the story and world, it's the type of world building I like where there is no info dumps, but you just kinda have to figure out what is going on from what is said and happens. The author handled that very well in this book and I loved discovering more about this world.
Overload Flux is told from dual point of views or both Mairwen and Luka, with a few chapters from other point of views. Mairwen and Luka are such an awesome couple and great characters. Mairwen is very capable, but where she excels in a lot of skills, social skills are a bit more challenging for her. Luka is very smart and intuitive and has a physic-like skill that allows him to analyze people and analyze crime scenes. But he now struggles to control his talent after the latest case where he pushed it hard. I loved how both these characters had their struggles, flaws and strengths and they felt very realistically and I loved reading about them. I also liked how they both change throughout the course of the book and get a handle on some of the things they struggle with.
The story was intriguing and well written. I liked the almost suspense like plot thread about what was going on with this pharmaceutical company and why Luka's colleagues got killed. It almost read like a romantic suspense book set in a sci-fi world at times. One of the few small niggles I can mention about this book is that I would've liked to know what happened to the pharmacy company after the things came to light and would've liked few things tied back to that a bit more. As at times I had a bit of trouble remembering everything that was going on and how it tied together.
One of the few things that's so rare to find is a book that manages to strike the perfect balance for me between the sci-fi and romance elements. But this book totally did. I loved how the romance never overshadowed the plot line or the world building, but at the same time the romance was a very essential part of the book as well and get enough attention as well. It was wonderful to find a book that balanced all the different aspects so well.
Speaking of romance, I loved Luka and Mairwen together. How there was already a connection/ interest when they first met, but their romance builds slowly throughout the book. They start working closer together and grow closer and I loved seeing them open up to each other and how they are there and help each other. They were such a great couple and I am glad there is another novella about them as well and I hope we get to see them sometimes in the future books as I just want more of them.
I loved how the author handled the world building. It's one of those book were you piece things together piece by piece, but it's very well done. And most things you can easily gauge from the conversation or context what's going on or what certain words mean. Most of this book takes place on two planets and a few space ships, but we get a feel of how there is a whole galaxy around this and how things work in this world. And at the same time I just want to know even more about this world. I am excited to see how this series continues.
Another thing that I noticed about this book was how some of the plot progressed in a slightly unusual fashion, which is great. Most books have a certain build-up with a big event at the end and then a quick wrap up. I liked how this book pacing felt slightly different and how there is a slightly longer wrap up part at the end. I also liked how the epilogue hinted at things to come in the rest of the series. And in a sense this book only feels like the start of a much larger plot line.
To summarize: I really enjoyed Overload Flux. This book had the perfect balance between story, sci-fi elements and romance. The story read a bit like a romantic suspense in space at times, with a mystery like set-up with how they're trying to uncover more about what's going on after two colleagues of Luka are found dead. The only niggle I had was that it could be a bit hard to remember all the details about what was going on at times. I really liked both main characters with how they had their flaws, strengths and struggles, they felt like realistic characters. I loved seeing them change throughout the book and grow closer. The romance was so well done, I loved these two together and how well they worked and fit together. I liked how the romance plot line nicely wove throughout the story and I loved seeing them grow closer and closer as the book progressed. All in all this was a fantastic start to this series and I am excited to read book 2.
When Overload Flux starts we get introduced to night shift guard Mairwen, quickly it's obvious there is more to her than meets the eye. What seemed like just another normal job for her turns into much more than she anticipated. While at first it was a bit hard to get into the story and world, it's the type of world building I like where there is no info dumps, but you just kinda have to figure out what is going on from what is said and happens. The author handled that very well in this book and I loved discovering more about this world.
Overload Flux is told from dual point of views or both Mairwen and Luka, with a few chapters from other point of views. Mairwen and Luka are such an awesome couple and great characters. Mairwen is very capable, but where she excels in a lot of skills, social skills are a bit more challenging for her. Luka is very smart and intuitive and has a physic-like skill that allows him to analyze people and analyze crime scenes. But he now struggles to control his talent after the latest case where he pushed it hard. I loved how both these characters had their struggles, flaws and strengths and they felt very realistically and I loved reading about them. I also liked how they both change throughout the course of the book and get a handle on some of the things they struggle with.
The story was intriguing and well written. I liked the almost suspense like plot thread about what was going on with this pharmaceutical company and why Luka's colleagues got killed. It almost read like a romantic suspense book set in a sci-fi world at times. One of the few small niggles I can mention about this book is that I would've liked to know what happened to the pharmacy company after the things came to light and would've liked few things tied back to that a bit more. As at times I had a bit of trouble remembering everything that was going on and how it tied together.
One of the few things that's so rare to find is a book that manages to strike the perfect balance for me between the sci-fi and romance elements. But this book totally did. I loved how the romance never overshadowed the plot line or the world building, but at the same time the romance was a very essential part of the book as well and get enough attention as well. It was wonderful to find a book that balanced all the different aspects so well.
Speaking of romance, I loved Luka and Mairwen together. How there was already a connection/ interest when they first met, but their romance builds slowly throughout the book. They start working closer together and grow closer and I loved seeing them open up to each other and how they are there and help each other. They were such a great couple and I am glad there is another novella about them as well and I hope we get to see them sometimes in the future books as I just want more of them.
I loved how the author handled the world building. It's one of those book were you piece things together piece by piece, but it's very well done. And most things you can easily gauge from the conversation or context what's going on or what certain words mean. Most of this book takes place on two planets and a few space ships, but we get a feel of how there is a whole galaxy around this and how things work in this world. And at the same time I just want to know even more about this world. I am excited to see how this series continues.
Another thing that I noticed about this book was how some of the plot progressed in a slightly unusual fashion, which is great. Most books have a certain build-up with a big event at the end and then a quick wrap up. I liked how this book pacing felt slightly different and how there is a slightly longer wrap up part at the end. I also liked how the epilogue hinted at things to come in the rest of the series. And in a sense this book only feels like the start of a much larger plot line.
To summarize: I really enjoyed Overload Flux. This book had the perfect balance between story, sci-fi elements and romance. The story read a bit like a romantic suspense in space at times, with a mystery like set-up with how they're trying to uncover more about what's going on after two colleagues of Luka are found dead. The only niggle I had was that it could be a bit hard to remember all the details about what was going on at times. I really liked both main characters with how they had their flaws, strengths and struggles, they felt like realistic characters. I loved seeing them change throughout the book and grow closer. The romance was so well done, I loved these two together and how well they worked and fit together. I liked how the romance plot line nicely wove throughout the story and I loved seeing them grow closer and closer as the book progressed. All in all this was a fantastic start to this series and I am excited to read book 2.
February 1, 2023
I think this might have been my first Carol Van Natta book? I thought I'd read her before, but I think I was wrong.
Really enjoyed the characters and the story!
Really enjoyed the characters and the story!
December 11, 2015
Reviewed on behalf of The Review Board by Harmony Kent.
I received a free mobi copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Meet Mairwen and Luka, who both have extra-normal talents that they both wish to hide. Human modification is commonplace, and the CPS likes to control and contain anyone with ‘talent’ such as mind reading and tracking, among others. Their investigation into the homicide of two company operatives at a warehouse leads the two erstwhile partners to a supposedly abandoned planet, and the intrigue thickens. It seems that pharma companies are up to no good and throw enough money around to get away with murder.
The book had me hooked from page one, and I flew through this read. I love the characters, the world building, and the plot and pacing. All great. The thread of mystery and romance added to the fun and didn’t override the main story, which I would class as light Sci-Fi; by which I mean not too much detailed science to get your head around. It would have been nice to have some of the futuristic terms given a context, but this is a minor point.
Okay, so why not five stars? The writing style could be polished more. It is extremely passive in nature, and full of filter words and delaying the action unnecessarily—all pet peeves for me. Split infinitives abound, as does overuse of extraneous words such as ‘own’, and descriptive dialogue tags that tell what has just been shown within the speech. Missing words litter the text, and there is the odd spelling error (non-descript instead of nondescript, for example). All of which led me to believe that the book had not been professionally edited. Imagine my surprise, when in the credits at the back of the book, the author thanks her editor. Perhaps this was a developmental edit rather than a line-by-line/copy edit?
The one thing done well from a technical perspective is the point of view. The book is written in third person close, alternating. Each time the POV shifts to a new character, this is shown clearly with a new section or a new chapter, with no head-hopping at all. Bravo.
Although this forms book one of a series, it works well as a standalone novel. The epilogue leaves me wanting to know what happens next, but there are no cliff-hangers or loose threads—it’s all tied up nicely.
I am a tough rater, and a book has to be a cracking good read to get four stars from me, and virtually error free. I save five stars for books that have a certain magical spark that leaves the reader all ‘wow’. That said, I have to give this book 8 out of 10 TRB stars, which equates to 4 out of 5 stars on other rating scales, despite the issues mentioned above, which is down to the talent and skill of the author in giving us a great story. The writing didn’t just hold my interest, it also kept me entertained, which is what saves this from three stars. I would recommend giving this book a go if you like sci-fi and mystery, and will be looking out for more from this author in the future.
I received a free mobi copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Meet Mairwen and Luka, who both have extra-normal talents that they both wish to hide. Human modification is commonplace, and the CPS likes to control and contain anyone with ‘talent’ such as mind reading and tracking, among others. Their investigation into the homicide of two company operatives at a warehouse leads the two erstwhile partners to a supposedly abandoned planet, and the intrigue thickens. It seems that pharma companies are up to no good and throw enough money around to get away with murder.
The book had me hooked from page one, and I flew through this read. I love the characters, the world building, and the plot and pacing. All great. The thread of mystery and romance added to the fun and didn’t override the main story, which I would class as light Sci-Fi; by which I mean not too much detailed science to get your head around. It would have been nice to have some of the futuristic terms given a context, but this is a minor point.
Okay, so why not five stars? The writing style could be polished more. It is extremely passive in nature, and full of filter words and delaying the action unnecessarily—all pet peeves for me. Split infinitives abound, as does overuse of extraneous words such as ‘own’, and descriptive dialogue tags that tell what has just been shown within the speech. Missing words litter the text, and there is the odd spelling error (non-descript instead of nondescript, for example). All of which led me to believe that the book had not been professionally edited. Imagine my surprise, when in the credits at the back of the book, the author thanks her editor. Perhaps this was a developmental edit rather than a line-by-line/copy edit?
The one thing done well from a technical perspective is the point of view. The book is written in third person close, alternating. Each time the POV shifts to a new character, this is shown clearly with a new section or a new chapter, with no head-hopping at all. Bravo.
Although this forms book one of a series, it works well as a standalone novel. The epilogue leaves me wanting to know what happens next, but there are no cliff-hangers or loose threads—it’s all tied up nicely.
I am a tough rater, and a book has to be a cracking good read to get four stars from me, and virtually error free. I save five stars for books that have a certain magical spark that leaves the reader all ‘wow’. That said, I have to give this book 8 out of 10 TRB stars, which equates to 4 out of 5 stars on other rating scales, despite the issues mentioned above, which is down to the talent and skill of the author in giving us a great story. The writing didn’t just hold my interest, it also kept me entertained, which is what saves this from three stars. I would recommend giving this book a go if you like sci-fi and mystery, and will be looking out for more from this author in the future.
July 29, 2015
This book offers a lot – fighting action, detective work, humans in space, humans with special abilities, a pharmaceutical conspiracy relevant to our own world, and a romance between two unique individuals. Take away the sci-fi, and you have a romantic suspense novel. But, you wouldn’t want to take the sci-fi away, because it’s well done, fun and makes for a good read.
The two main characters in this book are interesting enough on their own, and even better together. Luka is like a futuristic forensic investigator and crime scene reconstruction analyst. His unique Psi-ability to ‘sense’ the way the crime scene took place is both a boon and a curse, because he can witness the murders and they often leave him emotionally distraught. Mairwen is a tough, security agent with her own abilities, but her goal is to keep her head down and go unnoticed in her mundane job. That doesn’t work out when she’s drawn to Luka and, in order to protect him, she must reveal things about herself that could have her become the one needing protection.
Mairwen is a woman of few words and limited social skills, and it made her conversations with Luka and others interesting and entertaining. Her character was complex and had continual growth throughout the book as she slowly opens herself up to Luka and the world. She never lost the sense of what made her unique though, including her vulnerabilities, and that made her character all the more appealing.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to reach that connection point with either of the main characters or their romance. It was well done, a good read and kept me turning pages to find out what happened, I just never got that warm-fuzzy ah-ha moment with them. This may be due to the pacing, the abundance of details or the lack of dialogue – all three factors which keep me from really getting into a book. This is not the fault of the book in any way, it’s simply the type of reader I am.
The plot of the novel is deep and as complex as Mairwen, with many players and possibilities involved. At times, I felt like this may have dragged the story along a bit, weighing down the pace with explanations, investigations and lulls between more interesting events. There were a few spots where I feel the pacing could have been improved, such as their time onboard the Berjalan ship, or where bit more dialogue or action could have taken the place of pages filled with introspection. Again, not a failure of the book, as I think this is pretty typical of romantic suspense, which is not something I usually pick up and read on a whim.
That aside, I thought it was a good read than any sci-fi or romantic suspense reader would enjoy, and I’ll be certainly checking out the other books in the series and by this author.
I received a copy of this book with request for honest feedback.
The two main characters in this book are interesting enough on their own, and even better together. Luka is like a futuristic forensic investigator and crime scene reconstruction analyst. His unique Psi-ability to ‘sense’ the way the crime scene took place is both a boon and a curse, because he can witness the murders and they often leave him emotionally distraught. Mairwen is a tough, security agent with her own abilities, but her goal is to keep her head down and go unnoticed in her mundane job. That doesn’t work out when she’s drawn to Luka and, in order to protect him, she must reveal things about herself that could have her become the one needing protection.
Mairwen is a woman of few words and limited social skills, and it made her conversations with Luka and others interesting and entertaining. Her character was complex and had continual growth throughout the book as she slowly opens herself up to Luka and the world. She never lost the sense of what made her unique though, including her vulnerabilities, and that made her character all the more appealing.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to reach that connection point with either of the main characters or their romance. It was well done, a good read and kept me turning pages to find out what happened, I just never got that warm-fuzzy ah-ha moment with them. This may be due to the pacing, the abundance of details or the lack of dialogue – all three factors which keep me from really getting into a book. This is not the fault of the book in any way, it’s simply the type of reader I am.
The plot of the novel is deep and as complex as Mairwen, with many players and possibilities involved. At times, I felt like this may have dragged the story along a bit, weighing down the pace with explanations, investigations and lulls between more interesting events. There were a few spots where I feel the pacing could have been improved, such as their time onboard the Berjalan ship, or where bit more dialogue or action could have taken the place of pages filled with introspection. Again, not a failure of the book, as I think this is pretty typical of romantic suspense, which is not something I usually pick up and read on a whim.
That aside, I thought it was a good read than any sci-fi or romantic suspense reader would enjoy, and I’ll be certainly checking out the other books in the series and by this author.
I received a copy of this book with request for honest feedback.
December 18, 2015
This sci-fi adventure is, for the most part, a fun read. The characters, Luka Foxe and Mairwen Morganthur are very well developed and are quite likable. Luka Foxe is a forensic investigator working for a company called La Plata in the investigative division. He meets Mairwen for the first time in this story. She’s a quiet blonde woman with highly efficient combat skills provided by what is inferred as bio-electronics and genetic engineering.
The two of them are investigating the murder of two other La Plata operatives, the theft of a vaccine, and a strangely spreading pandemic that is hopping from planet to planet throughout their star system.
The book is well-written, despite suffering from a multitude of missing commas, something I’m becoming accustomed to, I’m sorry to report. This doesn’t take much away from the content of the story, I’m happier to add. I really enjoyed the progression of the investigation and the growing relationship between Luka and the secretive Mairwen, up until the later part of the book, where the ‘timeout-here’s-another-romantic-interaction’ got to be a bit annoying.
The investigation leads the pair into space on a ship, which is promptly doomed by sabotage and sent to crash land on a planet, leaving Luka, Mairwen, the ship’s pilot, and a crewman alive. I very much liked the level of detail in which the author describes the vessels, weapons, items, and the action. Natta keeps the flow even and true, while painting a nice picture behind it. There aren’t any areas where the story bogs down, with the exception of the many revisits to the relationship between Luka and Mairwen.
The four of them discover a detachment of mercenaries on the planet and, by the necessity of survival, have to attack them. I’ll stop here to keep from giving away the story, but trust me, it’s a good one.
This is a lively introduction to a sci-fi series, full of action, well-carved characters, and descriptive, flowing narration. It’s a very good time. I give this story 4 1/2 of 5 stars.
The two of them are investigating the murder of two other La Plata operatives, the theft of a vaccine, and a strangely spreading pandemic that is hopping from planet to planet throughout their star system.
The book is well-written, despite suffering from a multitude of missing commas, something I’m becoming accustomed to, I’m sorry to report. This doesn’t take much away from the content of the story, I’m happier to add. I really enjoyed the progression of the investigation and the growing relationship between Luka and the secretive Mairwen, up until the later part of the book, where the ‘timeout-here’s-another-romantic-interaction’ got to be a bit annoying.
The investigation leads the pair into space on a ship, which is promptly doomed by sabotage and sent to crash land on a planet, leaving Luka, Mairwen, the ship’s pilot, and a crewman alive. I very much liked the level of detail in which the author describes the vessels, weapons, items, and the action. Natta keeps the flow even and true, while painting a nice picture behind it. There aren’t any areas where the story bogs down, with the exception of the many revisits to the relationship between Luka and Mairwen.
The four of them discover a detachment of mercenaries on the planet and, by the necessity of survival, have to attack them. I’ll stop here to keep from giving away the story, but trust me, it’s a good one.
This is a lively introduction to a sci-fi series, full of action, well-carved characters, and descriptive, flowing narration. It’s a very good time. I give this story 4 1/2 of 5 stars.
December 29, 2014
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review, and honestly, I loved this book! I started out with my expectations a bit low, but as the story went on, I realized just how much I was enjoying these two very damaged people and their adventures in not only solving a mystery, but in finding love as well. Mairwen Morganthur is hiding out as a night-shift guard, keeping her super-human skills under wraps to avoid detection from the brutal government agency that created her. Luka Foxe has been assigned to investigate several deaths, which then leads to a number of plots by pharma corporations to hide illegal activities and corporate spying. He has been working with several security personnel, and realizes that one of them, Morganthur, seems to help calm his out of control talent whenever she’s around. There also seems to be much more to this no nonsense guard than anyone realizes, which leads Luka to request her as his personal security. This turns out to be a smart move, since she not only protects him, but assists in the investigation with her out-of-the-box thinking. Once they leave on a mission to locate a suspected hybrid planet, all hell breaks loose, and they learn that the more they trust each other, the better their chances of survival are. I loved the gradual way their relationship progressed, revealing more of their pasts while they were learning to trust and care for each other. Both had little experience with that sort of thing, and I enjoyed seeing Mairwen realize that she could experience deep feelings despite what had been done to her. There was plenty of action to satisfy and the romance was light and sweet, not overpowering the overall story, which was an enjoyably exciting adventure. I look forward to reading more work by this author, I’ll certainly be looking out for it.
January 16, 2015
I was offered the chance to read and review this book by the author and I am so flattered! I am not the easiest reviewer, but I did really enjoy this book! It's "light" sci-fi, you don't have to love math or know everything about physics, instead it's a combination mystery-action-romance that happens to take place in SPACE! I do not include spoilers in my reviews, so you'll just have to read it if you want the specifics!
I found the writing and pacing strong and really liked the main characters. For me, reading it on a kindle was imperfect because I sometimes forgot names (that were JUST spacey or different ENOUGH) and could not go back and look them up - but that's a kindle problem not a book problem! I thought the romance was the weakest part of the novel, but it was not particularly distracting from the story and I enjoyed some gender dynamics that were subtly played with in the book. I liked that the author treated the audience as smart enough to figure out lingo and specific terms, and though the book handled some interesting ideas without being preachy or overbearing - just including them as background plot.
I am not an overly generous rater, and this book might be somewhere between 3 & 4 stars - but 3, for me, is "average enjoyable book" and I would put this above "average." While reading it I kept being pleasantly surprised by it and saying "huh, this is pretty good!" I looked forward to reading it when I got home from work and I will definitely buy the next book in the series. And for $3.99 for kindle you can hardly go wrong!! I love books that are priced at a reasonable digital rate!!
I found the writing and pacing strong and really liked the main characters. For me, reading it on a kindle was imperfect because I sometimes forgot names (that were JUST spacey or different ENOUGH) and could not go back and look them up - but that's a kindle problem not a book problem! I thought the romance was the weakest part of the novel, but it was not particularly distracting from the story and I enjoyed some gender dynamics that were subtly played with in the book. I liked that the author treated the audience as smart enough to figure out lingo and specific terms, and though the book handled some interesting ideas without being preachy or overbearing - just including them as background plot.
I am not an overly generous rater, and this book might be somewhere between 3 & 4 stars - but 3, for me, is "average enjoyable book" and I would put this above "average." While reading it I kept being pleasantly surprised by it and saying "huh, this is pretty good!" I looked forward to reading it when I got home from work and I will definitely buy the next book in the series. And for $3.99 for kindle you can hardly go wrong!! I love books that are priced at a reasonable digital rate!!
April 7, 2015
What a great book! I e-met the author here and she asked if I'd check her book out since we both liked a similar author. I'm so glad I did. It may seem a bit long-winded (in a GOOD way) as compared to most sci-fl romance light and fluffy out there - in other words, there is a real plot, real suspense, well-built characters and the world they live in? Awesome!! I loved, loved, loved the heroine. She had such a horrid past and had no clue how to live. It was so poignant watching her learn, not just every-day things, but interacting with other people. You were rooting for her to come out of the shadows and live! The hero is patient with our clueless heroine, and he is just perfect in how he acts toward her. The author really did a good job there.
There are twists and turns, romance, murder, mayhem, friendships built and lost, and the best part? Every other page is NOT, I repeat, NOT a sex act going on, filling in for plot. It is a real-live story - honest!! It is a deep and very satisfying story and you really are sad when you're finished reading it - at 4 in the morning, thankyouverymuch.
So far the author only has two books out which is a shame because I really want to read another one of her sci-fi books - so let's hope she writes one! I can't wait for more from the author - and now I'm off to read her co-authored book, Hooray for Holopticon.
There are twists and turns, romance, murder, mayhem, friendships built and lost, and the best part? Every other page is NOT, I repeat, NOT a sex act going on, filling in for plot. It is a real-live story - honest!! It is a deep and very satisfying story and you really are sad when you're finished reading it - at 4 in the morning, thankyouverymuch.
So far the author only has two books out which is a shame because I really want to read another one of her sci-fi books - so let's hope she writes one! I can't wait for more from the author - and now I'm off to read her co-authored book, Hooray for Holopticon.
December 19, 2014
The author contacted me after seeing I read, and enjoyed, a series by another author who's story was a similar style and asked if I would read her book and write an honest review after. First, let me point out that although this book is in a similar style as the other series, I have to say it is in NO way a knock-off or a copy in any way. They are distinctly different.
Now, with that out of the way, it is review time. The basis of the book, and hopefully soon to be full series, is someone in the galaxy is stealing vaccines for a galaxy wide pandemic. An forensic investigator, who has some hidden talents with some nasty side effects, is tasked with case and he is assigned a security detail who appears to be nothing more than a night watch guard, but holds her own secrets. As a lover of good mysteries, strong female lead characters, and occasional science fiction read, I have to say this hit on all the right levels for me. The author does a good job 'fleshing' out the two main characters, helping form a bond with the reader, and the story line grabbed me from the very start. Lots of action, a little romance, some good science fiction that sometimes stretches known science. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next installment.
Now, with that out of the way, it is review time. The basis of the book, and hopefully soon to be full series, is someone in the galaxy is stealing vaccines for a galaxy wide pandemic. An forensic investigator, who has some hidden talents with some nasty side effects, is tasked with case and he is assigned a security detail who appears to be nothing more than a night watch guard, but holds her own secrets. As a lover of good mysteries, strong female lead characters, and occasional science fiction read, I have to say this hit on all the right levels for me. The author does a good job 'fleshing' out the two main characters, helping form a bond with the reader, and the story line grabbed me from the very start. Lots of action, a little romance, some good science fiction that sometimes stretches known science. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next installment.
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