Chaos

Cy Reed Adventures #1

by David Meyer

Librarian's note: This is an Alternate Cover Edition for ISBN10: 0615550312 ISBN13: 9780615550312.

To locate his missing friend, former urban archaeologist Cy Reed must piece together his shattered life and return to the one place on earth he truly fears...Manhattan.

Soon, he's storming through flooded subway tunnels, discovering a lost laboratory, battling a mysterious man-eating beast, and scaling a mountainous skyscraper. But as he plunges deeper into the strange and murky legends surrounding a piece of forgotten technology, he begins to untangle a staggering conspiracy.

More than sixty years ago, a Nazi physicist created a weapon capable of setting the world aflame. Now, a diabolical industrialist plans to finish the job. At stake is the future of a nation…millions of innocent lives…and one man's final chance at redemption.

Genres: Thriller, Adventure

262 pages, Paperback

First published October 4, 2011

About the author

David Meyer is an author, marble-maze builder, sock puppet aficionado, wannabe cartoonist, a creator of some things and breaker of others, a yogi and martial artist, and the owner of the reddest hair you’ve ever seen.

He’s a man of few apps, but many books. Creatively, he prefers to work in circles, following “the pull” rather than pushing. He’s tried—and abandoned—nearly every productivity tool known to man. He likes new ideas, old stories, and the big picture. He dislikes small talk, busyness, and infinite scrolling.

He’s married to the wife of his youth, who knows his worst, yet loves him best. He’s also father to who just happen to be his two favorite children of all time.

Reviews

[David Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chaos is the first book of a planned adventure/thriller series featuring former urban archaeologist Cyclone Reed. It's currently available as a paperback from Amazon as well as an e-book from Amazon, B&N, and Smashwords (Apple, Sony, Kobo, Diesel, & Scrollmotion to follow shortly).

I wrote it so I'm admittedly partial to it. Still, if you like Indiana Jones or novels by the likes of Clive Cussler, James Rollins, Steve Berry, or Douglas Preston, then I think you'll like Chaos. Check it out and then come visit me at http://www.guerrillaexplorer.com, a blog devoted to Lost Treasure, Shipwrecks, Mysteries of History, Cryptids, Conspiracies, Forgotten Lands, and Explorers. Starting one week from today, I'll be hosting a book club on my blog. But it won't be an ordinary book club. Instead, we'll be focusing on the shocking mysteries, lost treasures, and unbelievable history that helped to inspire Chaos. I hope you enjoy Chaos as well as the book club. Thanks for your support!

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I also reviewed this book on my blog:
The Real World According To Sam

First of all let me just say: Oh-My-Gosh-My-Mind-Has-Just-Been-Hacked-And-Entertained-In-A-Way-I-Thought-Was-Impossible!!!! David Meyer..you are a genius...a true master of words when blended with action.

Now that THAT is out of my system let us move on with this review. Let us begin with the characters.
Cyclone Reed: The perfect protagonist. I absolutely adore him!! Strong, smart yet imperfect and prone to feelings of failure. I do like the fact that there is no actual physical description of Cy. It leaves a little bit of room to place your own image of him (which I think is for the better, as it enhanced my individual experience). Not to mention the wit. It's nice to find a character who has such a smart tongue in the face of evil. Simply brilliant! I can't say much else as I am so caught up in everything I just went through.

Beverly Ginger: I especially love Beverly...she is a great character that manages to keep in a dash of mystery amidst all the craziness surrounding her and Cyclone. I didn't see that ending coming. Right when I thought I had her figured out, things flipped. Stupid Cyclone and his confusing dual personality....I still think he should have picked Beverly. She's a stronger female, she understands things better and I honestly think that she really liked Cyclone. I'm not sure how everything is going to work out in the end, but I would REALLY like to see Cyclone end up with Beverly..although if there IS another adventure in store for Cyclone in the future, he can't really have a girlfriend at that point in time. We'll see. This book is SO good! I would consider it as worthy of being a Spielberg production that went down with greats such as Indy and my all-time favorite: Jurassic Park. =)

Diane Blair: Diane is a star archaeologist who has a history with Cyclone Reed, although due to circumstances, it ended up coming to an abrupt close. I found Diane to just be an extra. To me, she just seemed to always be in the way. I had no real like for her, but neither did I have any disdain. She is just there...a mediocre girl tossed into the mix. Due to her strict archaeological thinking, she does have a certain distaste for treasure hunters...and it just so happens that Cyclone has become just that. I kinda feel like Diane just gummed up the works and that the relationship between her & Cy was left rather undeveloped...I personally could have done without it.

Ryan Standish: What can I say? There are some characters you love, some you hate...and some you just don't know whether you do or don't. Standish---I don't necessarily hate him. He's a bad guy, but he was taken advantage of and misinformed rather severely by Chase. But--I do not feel bad for him in the end. He got what he deserved. I can honestly say that he wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed...at least not from my perspective. & it goes to show considering his fate.

Jack Chase: THIS guy is the exact villain required for a story like this. He was perfect in every villainy aspect. He spent his entire life fighting for an unjust cause. He basically lost all sanity going after this powerful weapon. He lies, he cons people, he does everything in his power to get what he wants....and that's exactly what is necessary of a good antagonist. Well done, well developed...overall OUTSTANDING character. I hate him, but in the sense of the villain that you LOVE to HATE.

Moving on to plot:
This book is a mix of many things. It's got a whole cup of Indiana Jones blended with Tomb Raider, a pinch of Pyrates/Gregor The Overlander (in the Underground of New York City part-minus the kid book part), a pinch of Michael Crichton's typical technothriller (which covers the science aspect thrown in) and 100% original David Meyer genius. I loved it!!! It took me on a roller coaster adventure. Each chapter left me wanting more and more and more. I felt like a movie was playing out in my mind. This book was so gripping. It kept at a steady pace, but did whip around on a few curves to keep the action rolling forward. I was laughing in joy, whimpering in angst and smiling throughout it ALL. I honestly can't even find enough words to put the experience I had in this review. I'm trying...but I'm failing miserably.

Let's just wrap this up:
This book is amazing. I honestly want to pick it up and read it all over again. It kept me going for hours and I didn't want it to end, although I did want to see what happened. I really hope I get to see more of Cyclone Reed. I also have a few questions left unanswered that are really starting to bother me: What happened to Beverly? What is up with the Nazi gold? Will we see Beverly again? Will Cyclone dump Diane for Beverly?(pleasepleasepleasepleasePLEASE)Is there going to be a second Cyclone Reed novel? I am really hoping for a sequel. If not, I am ready to read whatever adventure Mr. Meyer comes up with next. =D Until then, Samantha OUT.

[Chris Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

David Meyer delivers with a fantastic first novel, full of everything adventure lovers want! There's scary creatures, fights, daring escapes, intrigue, and of course a diabolical villain to boot. I look forward to the sequel!

[Indiana Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

For lovers of Jack Reacher and Dirk Pitt…here comes Cyclone Reed!

Hang on to your seat! If you like roller coaster action, fast-paced adventure and the thrill of treasure, you’ll love Chaos, the suspense-filled debut novel of David Meyer.

Chaos is a finely woven story full of intrigue set below the streets of New York City. The main protagonist, Cyclone Reed, is an urban archaeologist turned treasure hunter. Written in the first person, Reed’s ability to laugh at himself truly makes him appealing. The dialogue is short and witty, and just when everything seems to be wrapped-up; the story takes another exciting twist and turn. I was hooked from page one and the author kept me guessing right up to the surprise ending.

If you’re a fan of Clive Cussler or Dan Brown, you will enjoy this book. I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel, “Ice Storm”!

[Dbbooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

In true spirit of adventure, intrigue begins at the mention of ODESSA. Good vs. evil reminiscent of Indiana Jones,Die Hard,Clive Cussler(Dirk Pit), Lake Placid with a New York underworld twist.
A fast paced read to enjoy.

[Susan Gillespie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this a lot. Hope the author doesn't mind me saying this but, it seems to me as if neither the author or the main character take themselves too seriously (in a good way!). Fast-paced and entertaining.

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun thriller for fans of Preston/Child, lost treasures, and unsolved mysteries.

[Peggy Puetz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great adventure but sometimes a little hard to follow. Was scary what they were looking for in the underground tunnels in New York city.

I liked the book because it was different than what I normally read. Cy is the star of the book and he was a treasure hunter.

[Tommy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick and fun book. I found myself pulled into the story and liking both Cy and some of those he was forced to work with. The author's knowledge of the NY subway system was impressive even if it only half accurate.
I will be getting the next book to see where Cy goes next.

[Dennis Plante · Rating 3 out of 5]

No Surprises

Decent book, common plot, bad guys seem to have no problem finding the hero, (spoiler) kidnaps hero's former girlfriend, but ends up saving the day. Nobody ever seems to need rest.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chaos

This book grabs the reader from page one and does not let go. So well written without any foul language or steamy sex. I'm so glad my son recommended it and I am anxious to find another. Thank you.

[Juan Suazo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Adventure!!!

It almost gave me an Indiana Jones Vibe!!! Great suspense, intriguing, rooted for the mini romance in the story. Will get other books eventually of this series.

[Jane Eagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

I enjoyed the story and the complex characters. I very fun read that keeps your interest! I am looking forward to reading all the Cy Reed adventures!

[Greg Hiscock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good paced adventure without a lot of fluff.

[Carl · Rating 3 out of 5]

David Meyers' "Chaos" is advertised as an "edge of your seat while reading" kind of book; however, I found that I was able often to sit back in my seat. Still, it was an interesting ride through New York's mysterious underground subways and tunnels. "Chaos" is the first entry by Meyers into his '"Cy Reed Adventures." The protagonist Cy (Cyclone) Reed is a disillusioned archaeologist turned treasure hunter who is tricked into working for the super bad guy, Jack Chase. Chase is looking for a futuristic weapon created by a Nazi physicist (a la Indian Jones) capable of setting the world aflame. Throw in some Nazi gold, and soon, Cy's storming through flooded subway tunnels, discovering a lost laboratory, battling a mysterious man-eating beast, and scaling a mountainous skyscraper.

Certainly it is a little over the top in spots, but it has alligators in the sewer, so it can not be all bad! And there is the love interest as well with not one - but two strong female characters. And in all, the the characters that drifted through this "Chaos" were interesting, but in spots, perhaps somewhat under developed. The overall story was certainly action; I very much enjoyed the historical aspect. Meyers did an excellent job informing the reader about the history of the New York subway system. If this is a genre you enjoy, I would certainly recommend that you give David Meyers and Cyclone Reed a chance. Struggled with a 3 or a 4, and I fave it a "3". However, despite a few reservations, I will follow Cy on another adventure!

[MsTiptress · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm having mixed thoughts about this book. The writing style and format were superb. This might be one of the few stories I have read "self-published" and there were virtually no mistakes.

It was catchy but not something entertaining to me.

He takes the unknown and makes it known, twisting and turning untrue facts until you believe it's true. Now that is awesome and again evident in this story. But this story I just didn't like the twists and turns and it must be me that can't comprehend what happened and why.

But in all it was an alright story nothing not to like about it. If you like sci-fi, treasure hunting mixed with mysterious animals.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure what to say about this book. Several time I went from being very interested to not so interested. I think it was because I thought the writing style was a bit unsophisticated from time to time. The overall story was okay (even occasionally plausible) and the characters that floated through were fairly interesting if not somewhat under developed. I really had a hard time with the main character's first name. I mean, really, who names their kid Cyclone? Is it a nickname? Is it a given name? There was no explanation. Maybe it will be revealed in a later novel. This isn't the worst book I've ever read so I'll probably give the next book in the series a try.

[Jacek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although it starts off slow, once this thriller hits its stride, it moves forward at full speed, and kept me on my toes.

[Country Lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chaos, a good read!

Chaos is a "edge of your seat while reading" kind of book. The author takes you on an adventure you won't soon forget. After I read Chaos, I began to watch for another of Mr. Meyer's books and found Ice Storm to read as well! Like others, I appreciated the facts behind the story and found them to be believable. The tale kept unwinding in depth and action. I'd definitely recommend this as a "do read it book".

[Brad Jost · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a tough time getting started on this first Cy Reed novel, but once I pushed through the beginning, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The character resembles most other characters I enjoy to read, but also has a few flaws that most others don't. I mean that in the best way possible, as-in character traits, not readability. I very much enjoyed the historical aspect of this urban explorer's jaunts. I fully intend to move forward with this series and hope the rest are just as fulfilling.

[Werner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently discovered local author David Meyer through a local online newspaper - and I'm glad I did. This a very good first adventure novel. The author introduces us to Cy Reed, and takes us on a fast-paced thrill ride in the bowels of the NYC subway system. The writing reminds me of Clive Cussler, without being over the top - making it more believable. Recommended reading.

[Dixie Petersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting adventure in a seemingly improbable place!

This was a terrific fast-paced adventure through, believe it or not, the miles and miles of subway under the city that never sleeps! Our explorers are searching for a stash of Nazi gold! Here, on American soil . . . improbable? Who knows any more what could or could not happen. This was a really fun well told story!

[F'reez Eegluu · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unbelievable hopeless.

I want to give constructive criticism, but the book's so bad I don't want to waste any more time with it.

Sorry.

[Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is filled with a great back story and lots of history to back up the story of the main character "Cy Reed". This is a book that you cannot pass up on reading.

[Allan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not bad at all, gives pretty good background on the Nazi bell Die Glocke. I have had interest in that for many years. Kinda on the unbelievable side but hey it's got sewer alligators.

[Wade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun "Urban Archeology" adventure story. I will defiantly read more from David Meyer.

[Peter Dutcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable read.

Cy is a well developed character and the story is well paced. Thanks for a great read, David Meyer! I'll be sure to read more of your work!