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Nick Hall returns in a riveting stand-alone thriller, set in a stunning future that is rapidly approaching.

From the NY Times bestselling author whose books have been downloaded over a million times.

Nick Hall has revolutionary electronics implanted in his brain that allow him to read minds--including thoughts, memories, and even intent. He can know the passwords, future strategies, and innermost secrets of anyone he chooses, making him the most formidable man alive. But his status as the only mind reader in the world is about to change . . .

Soon Hall is fighting for his life as he races to stop an unimaginably despicable terror plot. But his problems are only beginning. Because when a member of his inner circle betrays him, and the secret to mind reading leaks out, he is forced to wage war against a merciless mind reader of nearly unequaled brilliance. One who will stop at nothing to kill Hall, his colleagues, and the woman he loves. And one who is intent on ushering in a dramatic transformation of the human species--even at the cost of billions of lives.

Based on actual research on computer-assisted mind reading, MindWar is a roller-coaster ride of a thriller. One that raises a number of intriguing possibilities about a future that is just around the corner.

"Richards is a tremendous new talent" (Stephen Coonts) who can "keep you turning the pages all night long" (Douglas Preston)

"Richards is a worthy successor to Michael Crichton"(SF Book.com)

Near Future Science Fiction Thrillers by Douglas E. Richards)
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MINDWAR (Nick Hall 3)
QUANTUM LENS
SPLIT SECOND
GAME CHANGER

Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
THE DEVIL'S SWORD

13 pages, Audible Audio

Published December 13, 2016

1809 people are currently reading
546 people want to read

About the author

Douglas E. Richards

48 books1,738 followers
Write to Doug at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and visit the author's website to be notified of new releases.

Douglas E. Richards is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of science-fiction thrillers that have sold more than three million copies (see list below). Richards has been celebrated for his gripping, thought-provoking works that blend cutting-edge scientific concepts with heart-pounding narratives.

Richards burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, WIRED, published in 2010. The novel garnered widespread acclaim for its ingenious combination of scientific speculation and thrilling storytelling. This success set the stage for a series of bestselling novels, each marked by meticulous research, riveting plots, and characters that resonate with readers.

Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives, Richards has become a go-to author for readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-fueled reading experience. His works delve deeply into the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific breakthroughs and the potential impact of technology on society.

A former Director of Biotechnology Licensing at Bristol Myers Squibb and a former biotechnology executive, Richards earned a BS in microbiology from the Ohio State University, a master's degree in genetic engineering from the University of Wisconsin--where he engineered mutant viruses now named after him--and an MBA from the University of Chicago.

The author has two grown children and lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and dog.

Richards loves hearing from readers, and always replies, so feel free to write to him at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and address him as "Doug". You can also Friend Richards on Facebook at Douglas E. Richards Author, or visit his website, where you can sign up to be notified of new releases.

SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS

SERIES

WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)

MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
UNLEASHED (Nick Hall 4)

SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)

THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)

STANDALONE NOVELS

QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
THE CURE (To become KU eligible for the first time in 2023)
THE BREAKTHROUGH EFFECT

Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)

TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)

OUT OF THIS WORLD

DEVIL'S SWORD

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5 stars
2,355 (55%)
4 stars
1,404 (33%)
3 stars
374 (8%)
2 stars
62 (1%)
1 star
22 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
Profile Image for Steve.
630 reviews24 followers
February 10, 2025
"MindWar" by Douglas E. Richards, published in 2016 and narrated by Adam Verner, is a high-octane audiobook that blends near-future science fiction with gripping technothriller elements. As the 3rd installment in the Nick Hall series, it dives deeper into the implications of mind-reading technology, delivering a roller-coaster ride of action, ethical dilemmas, and speculative science. Richards, known for his meticulous research and fast-paced storytelling, crafts a narrative that is both thought-provoking and adrenaline-pumping, while Verner's narration adds a dynamic layer to the experience. However, the audiobook's ambition occasionally stumbles under its own weight, making it a compelling yet uneven listen.

One of the standout highlights of "MindWar" is its exploration of mind-reading technology, extrapolated from real-world research on computer-assisted brain interfaces. Nick Hall, the protagonist, possesses revolutionary brain implants that allow him to read minds, including thoughts, memories, and intentions. This premise, while not new to the series, is pushed to its limits as Hall faces a new threat: a rival mind reader with sinister ambitions. Richards excels at weaving cutting-edge science into the narrative, making the technology feel plausible and immediate. The audiobook's pacing is relentless, with Hall racing against time to thwart a terror plot that could reshape humanity. This tension is amplified by Richards' ability to balance action with moral debates, such as the ethics of mind invasion and the potential for misuse of such power.

The character development is another strength, particularly with Hall, who grapples with the psychological toll of his abilities. Richards introduces new characters that add depth, though some secondary figures feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals. The audiobook also shines in its speculative vision of the future, raising intriguing questions about privacy, security, and human evolution. However, the plot's complexity can be overwhelming, with multiple twists and turns that occasionally strain believability. While Richards' research notes at the end (a signature of his work) ground the science, some might find the narrative's reliance on coincidence and rapid-fire reveals a bit jarring.

Adam Verner's narration is a significant asset, bringing energy and clarity to the audiobook. His ability to differentiate character voices and convey the intensity of action scenes enhances the listening experience. However, his pacing can feel slightly rushed during quieter, introspective moments, which might disrupt the emotional weight of certain scenes. Despite this, Verner's performance is well-suited to the thriller genre, keeping listeners engaged through the audiobook's almost 13-hour runtime.

"MindWar" is not without flaws. The dialogue can veer into expository territory, with characters explaining concepts at length, which might feel heavy-handed for seasoned sci-fi fans. Additionally, the audiobook assumes familiarity with the series, making it less accessible for newcomers. That said, its blend of entertainment and intellectual stimulation makes it a rewarding listen for those invested in the genre.
Profile Image for Tulay.
1,202 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2016
Fascinating story.

Read all the books in this series, though long long time while reading. Some parts were controversial, but interesting. Author does a lot of research before, internet and what technology can do important, but this also putting our lives in danger too. Mind reading, ESP, video recording glass or contact lenses are in our future. Like Amazon knows what I like to read, or how many cats I have.
Profile Image for Karen Sikora Toronyi.
46 reviews
June 21, 2017
Very bring. I stopped reading after about 30% in. Very poorly written. It sounded like something I would write.
Profile Image for Patrick.
892 reviews5 followers
February 11, 2023
This was a well thought out, exciting story. As the third book in the series I expected it to come to a conclusion though. I think it left some room to be continued. I don't know if it will be or not. There were a lot of twists and turns in the story line that kind of left you hanging and surprised at times. I enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Charmagne Quenan.
13 reviews1 follower
February 26, 2018
Not his best, but still entertaining.

Not my favorite Richards book, but entertaining, nonetheless. The heroes seemed a little too perfect, and the bad guys a little too cartoonish. While I usually enjoy stretching the limits of technology for the story, this one seemed a little too implausible.
Profile Image for Norm Davis.
418 reviews5 followers
December 25, 2020
Apr 19, 23, 28, May 2, 2020
Douglas E. Richards has quickly risen to the top of my favorite authors list. Reading his books almost always reminds me of Isaac Asimov or Robert Heinlein and a few other grand masters. These grandmasters routinely used their primary characters to "explain the science". Perhaps Mr. Richards is a bit better at doing this as he tries to shove the science in this character drive thrillers into the slow parts where little action is going on, like while hiding, or waiting to be captured, while enroute to the next scene as so forth. This was well done by most the grand masters who pushed science fiction into the mainstream by first writing great character driven stories and doing the thrilling "future tech ideas" in dialogue during scenes that would normally read, "they drove to Los Angeles" but instead fill in with interesting dialogue during their trip (usually while being chased or some portent of danger is hanging in the air). Hope to do better by this review at some later date. Mind War, BTW is book three in a series well worth the time. His primary character has accidentally acquired extraordinary mental ESP type abilities and works this into his extraordinary trilogy.

Susan Kaye Quinn. Does an interesting twist on these "Mind" ideas as well in her Mindjack series.
FWIW:
Richard Farr & Douglas E. Richards often add addendums to their books about the science they researched for the book that makes for interesting reading for life long geeks like myself. Richard Farr takes it even beyond his books and continues with even more "backstory and research" on his website.
Profile Image for John A. Sillasen.
358 reviews4 followers
November 13, 2021
Book Three in the Nick Hall Series. I for one want to read another and at least another after that!

This should be a five book series at least. Are you seeing this Douglas E. Richards? Maybe not an Anita Blake long series but perhaps as long as the Kate Daniels series. In this the third of a trilogy, we find pur unprepared psyionic, that's mind reading, hero, Nick Hall on a secret base where over a period of six hours he speed reads the minds of 99 people suspected of or having links to terrorism. They may not even be in custody, but Homeland or the FBI or any number of 3 letter acronym agencies have their eyes on too many to process, follow or even build a case against. But when the President or the head of all these security agencies tells you to gather up your suspects and fly them to an unknown secret base who are they to argue when actual actionable data comes from these "interrogations." When Nick finds one candidate who has intimate knowledge of a plot to kill thousands with a new highly volatile formula of Sarin gas and its going to be released over a major population in just hours a frenzied plan gets put into operation and no one even knows if they will survive it themselves. Their cutting it too close and still don't know the target. Intrigued? Yes, I want a book four too!
Profile Image for Ed Tinkertoy.
281 reviews4 followers
January 11, 2022
First off I have to say that I only read about one-third of the book. The problem I had with the book, and this series, was that it was like reading horror stories where the low-down, deceitful, obnoxious characters did all manner of bad things to people, including shooting a man who was tied up and had tape over his mouth. I just got tired of all of the gory descriptions in the books. I also tired of Nick Hall over and over coming to the rescue with what I considered lame actions to free himself and to overcome the bad guys. So I quit the book after about a third of it and skipped to the last chapter to see how the ending went. And boy was I glad I skipped all of the middle stuff. The book ends with Hall, the US President and a few others meeting and discussing how they acted wrong and gave one on the bad guys, Victor, the upper hand on controlling ESP. And then the book just ends. Some reviews that I have read said there should be another book and there may very well be another. That's because the book ends with things up in the air for the good guys; the bad guys have control.

One final note: It took me much longer to read what I read than I would normally take because frankly I just did not feel like picking up the book some days and reading more gore and bad things.
16 reviews6 followers
October 15, 2018
I enjoyed the first two books, but this one seemed to be a little lacking. I think there was too many moving parts in this one, and the author couldn't successfully develop all the pieces. There were numerous plot holes, and the twist in the last few chapters left me, the reader, feeling less than gratified. I always hate it when authors leave openings for their next books

Updated on 15 October 2018:

Since I had read this book over the course of a month, I had forgotten a few minor details that irked me.
1. Navy Seals are not Sergeants. They are Petty Officers.
2. Why is it authors automatically uses Seal Team 6?
3. The AH-99 Apache in the book. First off... the Apache is the AH-64. The AH-99 was the now defunct Comanche program. The AH-99 was s a two seater helicopter gunship. One pilot, One gunner. There is not enough room for a pilot, Megan, and three navy seals.
I almost stopped reading the book at that point... but decided to power through it.
104 reviews2 followers
October 13, 2020
Great end to a 3 book series, maybe, I hope, not the last!

I always find it fascinating that authors can come up with riveting stories, especially in a series. This is (hopefully & seemingly not) the last in a borderline sci-fi that may become our future world.

In it people will be able to access the Internet directly through our brains, & maybe throw in a little mind reading to spice life up. This series was compelling in many ways. Complicated plots of a single hero who received brain implants as a hostage & ended up being a mind reader as well. Fortunately, he's a pretty good guy who uses these "gifts" for good. But of course, there are the "bad" guys & the quasi good or bad guys...who can tell them apart sometimes!?!

Twists & turns galore, with much to ponder as to how science & technology may change our lives. Love the "what's real now", what's in development, & what's just a "figment of a very creative mind" segments at the end.
Profile Image for Susanne Blackledge.
11 reviews
March 2, 2020
Mind readers

Wow! Your mind is a beautiful thing. Scary on the near future fronts, but brilliant nonetheless. I’m still thinking about having this ability thrust upon me. I would crumble under the weight. I’m strong minded and of will. That being said, I would have to go to ground. I have more empathy than most. I’m fairly certain I couldn’t bare all the ugliness that people hide. I wouldn’t be concerned about being read myself. Not much to hide. I’ve always been an open book. Speaking blunt to everyone. Which I find is a curse as well. Empathetic and blunt makes for an interesting conversation with me. Will there be a 4th book? I would love to learn what becomes of Bostic. Absolutely love this series! Completely recommend
Author 1 book69 followers
January 16, 2021
Nick Hall has electronics implanted in his brain that allows him to read minds--including thoughts, memories, and even intent. He knows passwords, future strategies, and the innermost secrets of anyone he chooses. What a plot. This could prove to be good and bad. Know anyone's thoughts? I'm not sure I'd like that ability. But his status as the only mind reader in the world is about to change. Soon Hall is fighting for his life as he races to stop an unimaginably despicable terror plot. A member of his inner circle betrays him, and the secret to mind reading leaks out, he is forced to wage war against a merciless mind reader of nearly unequaled brilliance. Constant tension and mystery. Will Nick survive? I enjoyed this series.
Profile Image for Brian Hess.
11 reviews
February 3, 2023
MindWars

Think you can figure out endings? Think again. Ain’t going to happen unless your the Author of MindWars. Don’t know what’s in this guys diet but it keeps moving my mental markers beyond what I am able to conceive, I enjoyed this book and at least on four occasions had to set the book down to just try and understand all of what was going on. Some people tell stories and others tell good stories and then Douglas Richards takes you to an entire level beyond in his story telling. Mr. Richards has taken my fascination to a ne plane . . . And I thank him for that. Great story, fascinating story lines, interesting characters, conclusions you won’t see coming. Need one say more?
318 reviews3 followers
May 20, 2024
There are no words left to praise Douglas E. Richard's incredible writing & story telling abilities

This author should be required reading in every high in our country. Reading one of his books would open the door for many students to learn the beauty of books and expand their minds. I thank God the day I stumbled across the first book I ever read of Mr. Richards. He came up on my Kindle and I took a chance and I never looked back as a mature adult woman, I read his books geared for teenagers, all I cared about was he wrote the book. I would read any of his books anytime, anywhere, even spend my last dollar to read his books. I love this author's books.
6 reviews
August 2, 2017
Twist and turns you do and don't expect. What more do you want from a series you are familiar with and understand yet twist continue to entertain. Keep on surprising, enjoying and requiring me to attempt to get a step ahead but be a back step behind. When I think I have it something exciting accords. Keeping me on my toes and attempting to foresee the plot is exiting engaging and fulfilling. Thanks.

Worth the continuation of the series. No disappointment. Will wait for the sequel and Amazon's delivery to mind.
I hope it is released quickly.
Profile Image for Sherri.
94 reviews
January 28, 2021
I agree Richards' books are page-turners, but they seem mediocre in character development and plot lines. For science fiction, I don't see much deep thought or originality in the plot lines. There have been other works, movies, and TV shows that delve into similar plot lines and do a much better job with them. I'm going to read his books, but I'm not rating them beyond 3 unless he really steps out of his box. Of the 5 books I've read, one deserved a 4, but barely.

I hope to be proved wrong, but I don't think I will be.
5 reviews
February 10, 2017
Mind War

An absolutely amazing book. I was unable to put this book down. It is expertly researched and anyone interested in neuroscience and/or technology will find it fascinating. Also with the current political, economic and international affairs of the world, I believe this novel would be of interest to just about everyone at this point, especially with the current administration and crisis of terror, immigration etc.
30 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2017
Enjoyed it but not quite as much as the two previous Nick Hall titles

I've read all of Douglas Richards' novels because the scientific approach he has taken is a bit unusual and one I find quite intriguing. I gave MindWar 4 stars because I found the plot a bit more forced and contrived than I'm accustomed to enjoying in his work. Also not so fond of the clear setup to book 4; defeats the notion of a stand-alone story.
69 reviews
June 29, 2018
Excellent in every aspect.

Once again the author has not only been thoroughly enjoyed but I'm impressed by the quality of his writing. Again, it is a must read for anyone that wants to see where the future just might be heading. Sci-fi uncannily has the potential to become the future. Just a note to the author, this better not be the last in the series. There is to much left hanging at the end.
Profile Image for Steve.
446 reviews42 followers
September 30, 2018
This book concludes in a way that suggests there might be a book 4 in the series. But given how long it has been since this edition was released, that appears questionable. Either way, this was a fantastic addition to the series. If we only get a trilogy, it's a fantastic set of books that I'm happy to recommend to any even remotely interested in the summary provided on Amazon. Each book delivers the goods.
10 reviews
February 19, 2021
Fascinating plot and Richards keeps you in suspense as usual and the payoff is pretty satisfying. Richards never fails to surprise me with his twists and that makes his books worth reading alone. I get bored with predictable plots and Dougas Richards is rarely predictable, for me at least. Marked this one down a tad as it had too much lovey-dovey romance and some sex which I didn't care for and was unnesessary to the plot I felt.
3 reviews
May 8, 2021
Good near-future sci-fi

Richard's third book in the Nick Hall series is full of twists and turns. Victory is more than once snatched from the jaws of certain defeat (maybe the author spends a bit too time emphasizing the certain defeat part). While some of the villains have no redeeming values, others are complex and almost likable. It's a page-turner that most sci-fi lovers should enjoy.
1 review
August 21, 2025
Outstanding

I love the way Douglas lays out the story. There are so many twists and turns, it really keeps you on your toes and not wanting to put the book down for fear you might miss something. This is the seventh book of his I have read. They have all been terrific. There are a number of authors I like but Douglas E. Richards is quickly moving to the top of the list.

Thanks,
Peggy Sprouse
Profile Image for Marilyn.
90 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2017
I absolutely love all the twists and turns Douglas has put in this book. He is very clever. I have no idea how he kept track of everything. I have read 6 of his books now. I liked everyone. This one is up there as one of my favorites. The action, mind wars and thrilling escapes kept me glued to the pages.
Keep up the great work.
6 reviews1 follower
September 1, 2017
Another good read from this author

This is the third Nick Hall book I've read and I love how the characters have developed over time. At first it seems pure science fiction that someone could read minds, but after reading the books, you start thinking " well, ok, maybe". I enjoyed thinking of the possibilities but also glad it most likely won't occur during my lifetime.
95 reviews
August 7, 2018
Disappointed

Third in this series, first two were fast paced and intriguing but unfortunately this book felt like a rehash with superfluous gore. The more we know about our hero and his team the less I like them. Instead of continuing to flesh out the secondary characters they were two dimensional
24 reviews
September 26, 2018
My Favorite author, bar none. His writing is crisp, clear, intriguing and informative. There are never editing errors or plot holes and his physics is plausible and best of all, he sources all of it in the back so folks can learn more about the science if they so choose. I have read all his books and you can apply this review to all of them.
Profile Image for Maury Breecher.
Author 2 books
October 28, 2018
The Best of Douglas ?E Richards Nick ?Hall Books

Surprised and cliffhangers galore. Not one but three awesome villains, four of you count Doctor's adult super-intelligent son. Two other mind-readers, both of whom go or appear to be rogue. . One who turns into an ally. Will he continue to be in the obvious hopefully soon to appear sequels? can't wait for them to appear.
Profile Image for Alexis.
293 reviews3 followers
April 12, 2019
3.5 to 4 stars. I enjoyed this the best of the books I think. I liked the characters. I like how you never know if a prominent character is going to bite it. And while the raging psycopaths (or is it sociopaths) always seem to be a touch too much, they are quite entertaining! They make me laugh. So, is this really the last book?
27 reviews
January 20, 2020
Another fantastic near future novel by Richards

Another fantastic near future novel by Richards.
Added suspense and thrilling twists abound in this 3rd Nick Hall story of mind reading and mind web searching. Read all three starting with Minds Eye, then Brain Web and then this one, you won't be disappointed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews

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