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Waypoint
***WINNER OF THE 2017 McGRATH HOUSE INDIE BOOK AWARDS*** Stacy’s life is in free-fall, her daughter killed by a drunk driver, her husband taking his own life only months later. She finds herself clutching a handgun, searching for a sign that tomorrow will be any better than today. At this auspicious moment her cell phone rings, bringing an offer that may postpone her soul searching.
The discovery of an airplane graveyard containing a dozen commercial airliners is shocking. When the deep-sea salvage camera’s reveal them to be virtually undamaged under six-thousand feet of water in the Indian Ocean, theories abound. Who put them there? How are they still in one piece? What reason could there be?
Stacy is about to learn the answers to those questions, as well things she’d prefer to forget. Along the way, she’ll have to solve this puzzle, and many more to prevent an even larger disaster from happening.
This book contains the tiny robots, falsified government identification, autonomous drones, ATM malfunctions, mid-air collisions, fear of sharks, Australian bar pranks, pointing guns out the window of a moving plane, video games, Area-51, milk shake do’s and don'ts and everyone’s possible need of at least one good friend.
Read at your own risk.
C. F. Waller is best known for his award winning science fiction novel Tourists of the Apocalypse. His work has been recognized by Shelf Media Magazine, Indie Excellence, Readers Favorite, McGrath House and recently in the 2017 BGS Pitch Contest. His other Award Winning novels include, South Face (Paranormal), Waypoint (Mystery/Thriller) and Free Dive (Tecno-thriller).
The discovery of an airplane graveyard containing a dozen commercial airliners is shocking. When the deep-sea salvage camera’s reveal them to be virtually undamaged under six-thousand feet of water in the Indian Ocean, theories abound. Who put them there? How are they still in one piece? What reason could there be?
Stacy is about to learn the answers to those questions, as well things she’d prefer to forget. Along the way, she’ll have to solve this puzzle, and many more to prevent an even larger disaster from happening.
This book contains the tiny robots, falsified government identification, autonomous drones, ATM malfunctions, mid-air collisions, fear of sharks, Australian bar pranks, pointing guns out the window of a moving plane, video games, Area-51, milk shake do’s and don'ts and everyone’s possible need of at least one good friend.
Read at your own risk.
C. F. Waller is best known for his award winning science fiction novel Tourists of the Apocalypse. His work has been recognized by Shelf Media Magazine, Indie Excellence, Readers Favorite, McGrath House and recently in the 2017 BGS Pitch Contest. His other Award Winning novels include, South Face (Paranormal), Waypoint (Mystery/Thriller) and Free Dive (Tecno-thriller).
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2017
83 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
C.F. Waller
10 books72 followersAward wining author C. F. Waller is best known for 2015 Reader Favorite Award winners SOUTH FACE and FREE DIVE. He recently released TOURISTS OF THE APOCALYPSE which was recognized by Readers Favorite in 2016, as well as Shelf Media.
He published his first science fiction novel at age forty-seven, after a flight on an ill-fated commercial airliner over the Atlantic Ocean nearly became an episode of Why Planes Crash. This experience illustrated for him first hand that writing about exotic or dangerous locales was safer than traveling to them. Since then, he likes to think his meticulous research and storytelling gives readers a clear sense of their grandeur, without the inherent risk of flying.
After narrowly escaping the academic death-grip of several universities, Charles worked in nightclubs, took a turn as a new car salesman, and also as a hurricane shutter engineer. His favorite authors include, Oscar Wilde, Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., and Michael Crichton. The later being especially close to his heart as Crichton epitomizes the tecno-thriller genre and the failure of humans to interact with technology.
Though he will forever be a Midwestern boy at heart, he now lives on the gulf coast of Florida with his wife, Tina, and one fuzzy feline companion. If he’s not working on a new novel, you can find him volunteering at church, playing overly competitive Yahtzee with his spouse, or indulging in an unhealthy addiction to competitive cooking shows on television.
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He published his first science fiction novel at age forty-seven, after a flight on an ill-fated commercial airliner over the Atlantic Ocean nearly became an episode of Why Planes Crash. This experience illustrated for him first hand that writing about exotic or dangerous locales was safer than traveling to them. Since then, he likes to think his meticulous research and storytelling gives readers a clear sense of their grandeur, without the inherent risk of flying.
After narrowly escaping the academic death-grip of several universities, Charles worked in nightclubs, took a turn as a new car salesman, and also as a hurricane shutter engineer. His favorite authors include, Oscar Wilde, Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., and Michael Crichton. The later being especially close to his heart as Crichton epitomizes the tecno-thriller genre and the failure of humans to interact with technology.
Though he will forever be a Midwestern boy at heart, he now lives on the gulf coast of Florida with his wife, Tina, and one fuzzy feline companion. If he’s not working on a new novel, you can find him volunteering at church, playing overly competitive Yahtzee with his spouse, or indulging in an unhealthy addiction to competitive cooking shows on television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 12, 2018
In this action-adventure, techno-thriller, the classic quote from the 1983 WarGames movie "Shall we play a game?" becomes "I offer 10 turns of peace."
Peace? Don't buy it for a minute... the action and intrigue never quits, throughout the story.
Waypoint: A Game of Drones, by C.F. Waller, is a solid "Dad's Fiction" thriller, just with a middle-aged female lead character (to put a slightly different spin, on the classic genre).
I'm a big fan of the audiobook narrator J. Scott Bennett and he doesn't disappoint, giving another excellent performance, in this, his latest offering.
Peace? Don't buy it for a minute... the action and intrigue never quits, throughout the story.
Waypoint: A Game of Drones, by C.F. Waller, is a solid "Dad's Fiction" thriller, just with a middle-aged female lead character (to put a slightly different spin, on the classic genre).
I'm a big fan of the audiobook narrator J. Scott Bennett and he doesn't disappoint, giving another excellent performance, in this, his latest offering.
July 9, 2018
Filled with a little bit of everything, every wondered where all the planes went that can’t be found? How about in the middle of the ocean all on top of each other with no signs of shock, not trying to get out, bodies a pond bodies inside of planes on top of planes that goes miles and miles deep. Years and years of missing planes and if that isn’t enough for you this group only wants one plane that has a box on it, they aren't interested in letting the world know about this hidden treasures and the untold answers of an airplane graveyard. What is in the box and how it got there is what the story is built around. It is shocking and terrifying at the same time thrilling and exciting, you never know what will happen next as the author takes you on first one wild ride and then another. It is just a believable audio that holds your interest from the first page. There is lots of danger, near death and a few deaths along with the mystery of a dome, a video game from years ago, the government, the mystery people who want it and why, ATM malfunctions that will blow your mind heck the whole plot blow me away from start to finish. What is most shocking is what is in the black box and why so many want it. Will our government win, is it even our government who wants it? Who are these people, are they really even the USA government?
Mr. Bennett’s narration is outstanding he always brings an exciting, thrilling audio that you get lost in, as he brings to life the story with strong emotions, confusion, power, control, anger, loss, heartache. You can hear all these in his voice as he builds each character giving us their strengths and weakness, their shocks and disappointments. His female and male voices are wonderful you always know who is talking and just what they are feeling. When you pick up one of his audios you know you will find no background noises, the volume never changes from one chapter to the next, it is like he read it all at one setting, he gives you a very clear and clean listen that you get lost in. Mr. Bennett has a way of bring the audio to life as he pulls you in with the excitement and danger giving you a thrilling listen you get lost in. You feel each emotion that the characters feel, you almost fill like you are right there with them. His character voices are great, his normal voice is very pleasant, it is a voice you never get tired of listening to. He really bought this audio to life for me making it very easy to picture each scene, the danger, the heartache as well as the excitement and thrills. I was so pulled in that I set in the car when I got home to listen a little longer because I had to know how that chapter ended.
Between the author and the narrator they pull you in with a very believable story that could be the headlines of tomorrow. Twelve hours of listening pleasure at your finger tips that seems to go by so fast. I was shocked when it was over and didn’t want the story to end. What a roller-coaster ride from start to finish that grabs you and keeps you so invested. The dome blew my mind at what he was able to do and why he didn’t it. The author shows you the dark sided of technology, how it gets control and then goes out of control and the people who want control and are willing to do anything to get it but first they must take out the dome that is playing a game to win, losing is not an option. One has to lose but which one will it be?
We are way too dependent on technology and yes at times the author gives you an over the top story but I fear we are headed for something of this nature in the future. The characters are well-developed, they have normal lives filled with drama, fears, needs and past that cut them like a knife. There were times my heart was in my throat waiting to see who would live and die. The scenes are real, terrifying but at the same time thrilling and exciting. These characters became real to me, everyone that was lost felt like a friend and I felt the lost. Every book I have listened to by this author has been one exciting, thrilling and even better than the last. I would have to say has been my favorite by far, it shows what tomorrow could be like. It will be one I listen to again, it is fast pace, and I am sure I missed some good points. I totally loved it from the first page. If you are looking for an action packed, thrilling, mystery with a little touch of romance that sends you on one heck of a roller-coaster ride that keeps you so invest you forget you are listening this is the book for you.
Mr. Bennett’s narration is outstanding he always brings an exciting, thrilling audio that you get lost in, as he brings to life the story with strong emotions, confusion, power, control, anger, loss, heartache. You can hear all these in his voice as he builds each character giving us their strengths and weakness, their shocks and disappointments. His female and male voices are wonderful you always know who is talking and just what they are feeling. When you pick up one of his audios you know you will find no background noises, the volume never changes from one chapter to the next, it is like he read it all at one setting, he gives you a very clear and clean listen that you get lost in. Mr. Bennett has a way of bring the audio to life as he pulls you in with the excitement and danger giving you a thrilling listen you get lost in. You feel each emotion that the characters feel, you almost fill like you are right there with them. His character voices are great, his normal voice is very pleasant, it is a voice you never get tired of listening to. He really bought this audio to life for me making it very easy to picture each scene, the danger, the heartache as well as the excitement and thrills. I was so pulled in that I set in the car when I got home to listen a little longer because I had to know how that chapter ended.
Between the author and the narrator they pull you in with a very believable story that could be the headlines of tomorrow. Twelve hours of listening pleasure at your finger tips that seems to go by so fast. I was shocked when it was over and didn’t want the story to end. What a roller-coaster ride from start to finish that grabs you and keeps you so invested. The dome blew my mind at what he was able to do and why he didn’t it. The author shows you the dark sided of technology, how it gets control and then goes out of control and the people who want control and are willing to do anything to get it but first they must take out the dome that is playing a game to win, losing is not an option. One has to lose but which one will it be?
We are way too dependent on technology and yes at times the author gives you an over the top story but I fear we are headed for something of this nature in the future. The characters are well-developed, they have normal lives filled with drama, fears, needs and past that cut them like a knife. There were times my heart was in my throat waiting to see who would live and die. The scenes are real, terrifying but at the same time thrilling and exciting. These characters became real to me, everyone that was lost felt like a friend and I felt the lost. Every book I have listened to by this author has been one exciting, thrilling and even better than the last. I would have to say has been my favorite by far, it shows what tomorrow could be like. It will be one I listen to again, it is fast pace, and I am sure I missed some good points. I totally loved it from the first page. If you are looking for an action packed, thrilling, mystery with a little touch of romance that sends you on one heck of a roller-coaster ride that keeps you so invest you forget you are listening this is the book for you.
September 11, 2017
“Waypoint: Game of Drones” is a captivating, entertaining, and gripping techno-thriller authored by C. F. Waller; who is known for a few of his other books such as “The Calling Tree” and “Tourists of the Apocalypse”. It is a rather long book consisting of nearly six-hundred pages, but the book did not feel or seem long when reading it. If you are a person who likes to be taken around the globe on adventures, enjoys technology and computers, along with a game of Hunt the Wampus, I recommend you pick up this book and give it a try. It contains action, adventure, mystery, and did I mention technology?
The story opens in a rather suspenseful and mysterious way. It quickly engulfs the reader in the rather broken and dark world of one of our main characters. We are given some insight into a few other mysteries which become relevant as the book progresses. In many way, it is a hard book to review without giving away some of the surprise. Needless to say, this dissimilar set of characters must join forces to defeat their one true enemy. Who does not like a story that takes you from the bottom of the ocean to the tops of the clouds and everywhere in between? We are presented with strong AI (Artificial Intelligence), autonomous drones, conspiratorial countries, and characters who are often broken and in need of one another.
The story overall is believable and shows how vulnerable a wired society can be. The book was a bit over-the-top at times, but we are shown how friendships are forged, lost, and let go throughout the story. There are times of deep emotional aspects along with mindless points of action. The characters felt like they had depth and body to them; something that is often lost in many modern books of the genre. Characters were presented as being fragile and did not seem invincible like super heroes making me wonder if they would survive various incidents. The book’s technology was well researched and implemented. Some of the technology was more futuristic then what we have today, which is not a bad thing. It is a piece of fiction and not required to fit within our technological understanding of our present day.
A few things that I would call out, which the author said were done in a later release of the book, would be some of the grammar and spelling issues I came across while reading this book. Again, nothing that would prevent me from enjoying it, but something that could easily have been addressed by an editor or others who could read a pre-release copy and make suggestions. Even though the book followed a specific path, I felt a few of the more open plotlines were not fully addressed when the book completed. I would have liked to have had a longer epilogue closing out some of the remaining mysteries. Again, this is only a suggestion as I enjoyed the book’s ending and that it was provided as a stand-along novel not requiring a sequel, even though the story could continue into a new book.
In summary, I often do not read books as much as I listen to audiobook because I’m a slow reader. I will say, this book kept my attention and drew me in enough that I wanted to read it to its end. For me, that is a sign of a good story and author. There were a few bumps along the way with grammar and spelling, but I can usually overcome or forgive them when the story takes me on a journey like this one did. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys technology thrillers.
Disclaimer: I was voluntarily provided this review copy book at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator.
The story opens in a rather suspenseful and mysterious way. It quickly engulfs the reader in the rather broken and dark world of one of our main characters. We are given some insight into a few other mysteries which become relevant as the book progresses. In many way, it is a hard book to review without giving away some of the surprise. Needless to say, this dissimilar set of characters must join forces to defeat their one true enemy. Who does not like a story that takes you from the bottom of the ocean to the tops of the clouds and everywhere in between? We are presented with strong AI (Artificial Intelligence), autonomous drones, conspiratorial countries, and characters who are often broken and in need of one another.
The story overall is believable and shows how vulnerable a wired society can be. The book was a bit over-the-top at times, but we are shown how friendships are forged, lost, and let go throughout the story. There are times of deep emotional aspects along with mindless points of action. The characters felt like they had depth and body to them; something that is often lost in many modern books of the genre. Characters were presented as being fragile and did not seem invincible like super heroes making me wonder if they would survive various incidents. The book’s technology was well researched and implemented. Some of the technology was more futuristic then what we have today, which is not a bad thing. It is a piece of fiction and not required to fit within our technological understanding of our present day.
A few things that I would call out, which the author said were done in a later release of the book, would be some of the grammar and spelling issues I came across while reading this book. Again, nothing that would prevent me from enjoying it, but something that could easily have been addressed by an editor or others who could read a pre-release copy and make suggestions. Even though the book followed a specific path, I felt a few of the more open plotlines were not fully addressed when the book completed. I would have liked to have had a longer epilogue closing out some of the remaining mysteries. Again, this is only a suggestion as I enjoyed the book’s ending and that it was provided as a stand-along novel not requiring a sequel, even though the story could continue into a new book.
In summary, I often do not read books as much as I listen to audiobook because I’m a slow reader. I will say, this book kept my attention and drew me in enough that I wanted to read it to its end. For me, that is a sign of a good story and author. There were a few bumps along the way with grammar and spelling, but I can usually overcome or forgive them when the story takes me on a journey like this one did. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys technology thrillers.
Disclaimer: I was voluntarily provided this review copy book at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator.
October 10, 2017
Waypoint - A Game of Drones
C. F. Waller
Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Date of Publishing: June 1, 2017
This book was reviewed for NetGalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for my honest review
I am not sure what I was expecting when I chose this book for review, a Military thriller with overtones of espionage, An apocalyptic suspense, or just a plain mystery. Whatever! What I got was a gripping novel of mystery and suspense that crosses all lines, It opens with a man waking up on a long flight next to his two sleeping seatmates. Groggy and disoriented. Believing it a side affect from his recent attempt to climb to top of Everest. Soon as he rises from his seat he knows something is wrong. Everyone is asleep and the plane is flying erratic. As he reaches the cockpit the pilot falls out the door mumbling and the passenger passes out at the ocean comes into view.
Next we are aboard a boat doing a grid search for a private plane that went down over water when the head of the expedition is called to come immediately to the see some of the data that is being collected. When he arrives the man explains her has found at least 12 planes downed in the search are, by morning at least 18 will be pinpointed. All with in a 20 mile radius.
The a woman about to start a murder spree on those who have wronged her including an ex co-worker her framed her for thefts she committed and a cheating boyfriend. Her phone rings and an old friend tells her of an opportunity. She puts off the murders to find out what is going on. While awaiting her final leg of the journey she sees a news report of China shooting down US military planes.
All of this is within the first 6 chapters. There is never a dull moment. You are about to literally dive into an adventure that no one knows where it is headed. Is war about to break out? What happened to Indonesian Flight 387 and the other planes that brought them all down intact? What is so important in that briefcase for a man to spend millions to retrieve it and keep everything covered up till it removed from the plane graveyard? Who is Hal and whom does he work for? Who is Stacey/Lydia and why was she brought into the mix? For every answer you find the author gives you two to replace it. A great thrill that you will find hard to walk away from. I definitely need to read more of this authors work.
I gave "Waypoint - A Game of Drones" a 4.5 out of a total of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072LFYV4G/...
C. F. Waller
Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Date of Publishing: June 1, 2017
This book was reviewed for NetGalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for my honest review
I am not sure what I was expecting when I chose this book for review, a Military thriller with overtones of espionage, An apocalyptic suspense, or just a plain mystery. Whatever! What I got was a gripping novel of mystery and suspense that crosses all lines, It opens with a man waking up on a long flight next to his two sleeping seatmates. Groggy and disoriented. Believing it a side affect from his recent attempt to climb to top of Everest. Soon as he rises from his seat he knows something is wrong. Everyone is asleep and the plane is flying erratic. As he reaches the cockpit the pilot falls out the door mumbling and the passenger passes out at the ocean comes into view.
Next we are aboard a boat doing a grid search for a private plane that went down over water when the head of the expedition is called to come immediately to the see some of the data that is being collected. When he arrives the man explains her has found at least 12 planes downed in the search are, by morning at least 18 will be pinpointed. All with in a 20 mile radius.
The a woman about to start a murder spree on those who have wronged her including an ex co-worker her framed her for thefts she committed and a cheating boyfriend. Her phone rings and an old friend tells her of an opportunity. She puts off the murders to find out what is going on. While awaiting her final leg of the journey she sees a news report of China shooting down US military planes.
All of this is within the first 6 chapters. There is never a dull moment. You are about to literally dive into an adventure that no one knows where it is headed. Is war about to break out? What happened to Indonesian Flight 387 and the other planes that brought them all down intact? What is so important in that briefcase for a man to spend millions to retrieve it and keep everything covered up till it removed from the plane graveyard? Who is Hal and whom does he work for? Who is Stacey/Lydia and why was she brought into the mix? For every answer you find the author gives you two to replace it. A great thrill that you will find hard to walk away from. I definitely need to read more of this authors work.
I gave "Waypoint - A Game of Drones" a 4.5 out of a total of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072LFYV4G/...
May 22, 2018
What a great audiobook. I could not stop listening to this story. The first few lines will grab you and suck you right into this world. The characters, the plotline and everything in between worked so great. Best of all there are tons of late 80’s and 90’s video game culture sprinkled throughout in this one. There really is something for everyone withsecret organizations, drones, old school and new school videogames and a worldwide hunt for… well something. The characters are really well developed and at times you just love to hate them. At points I was even shaking my head, as most audiobook lovers do because they were just being so stubborn. I loved that the 2 main characters were just so different and probably would have never spoken to each other had they not been brought together for one reason. They each have their own backstory that really helps them along the way. The author does a fantastic job of painting a picture in the real world and virtual world as well. This story is just so interesting and fast paced that it plays out like a summer blockbuster at the movies. The only thing I disliked, as a Canadian there was one point that one of the characters wished to outlaw hockey if they were to rule Canada. Since I liked the story so much I will chalk this up to a roague editor adding that in. The performance of this title is outstanding. Throughout the whole story the tension was evident through Bennett’s voices and tone. The speed of the narration definitely matched the speed of the action, but also held my attention through all the explainations and building parts of the audiobook. Right from the first sentence Bennett delivered a great performance. I really liked the twists and turns along with the old school videogame shoutouts. The ending is pretty awesome too! Please let their be a sequel. I was provided a copy of this work in exchange for an honest review via Audiobook Boom. This in no way affected my opinion.
June 18, 2017
Wow, was this an amazing read! When I say I didn't want to put it down, that is the complete truth. The action just never stopped, and it hopped from ocean to air to land in an amazing whirlwind of thrills. If you're old enough to remember the movie War Games (the original with Matthew Broderick), this is like an updated version of that, only on steroids! I'm a die-hard criminal thriller reader but I was taken to this book and this heroine in the very first chapter. The author has a wonderful way of telling a story. Now, I am not anywhere near technologically inclined, yet things were explained in a way that I could understand and not feel like I was talked down to. I read a lot of books that women are drawn to and I can say that this is one that both genders will equally enjoy. I just loved this book and would recommend it to everyone. I will definitely read more from this author. I will point out that there are some typos, so take this into consideration. Hopefully these will be worked out soon.
July 31, 2018
A Game of Drones is the perfect title for this book; however, it is so much more. This is a story of AI, video games, and world security. Stacey, the main character, has an unbelievably exciting adventure to help save America from a war with China.
Stacey also has her own story that will come together throughout the story. I loved how the author shares only what needs to be shared when it's needed, and just enough to keep the reader guessing.
The ending led me to think this is the beginning of a series. If so, it will be a fun series to read or listen to. It was a smooth story and works excellently as a read alone as well.
I listened to the audible edition of Waypoint: A Game of Drones because it was narrated by one of my favorite voices, Scott Bennett, and he did an excellent job! I would have enjoyed hearing this with a female narrator joining him, but I still loved it!
Waypoint: A Game of Drones is easily a 4-star book, and I can’t wait to hear the next one!
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Stacey also has her own story that will come together throughout the story. I loved how the author shares only what needs to be shared when it's needed, and just enough to keep the reader guessing.
The ending led me to think this is the beginning of a series. If so, it will be a fun series to read or listen to. It was a smooth story and works excellently as a read alone as well.
I listened to the audible edition of Waypoint: A Game of Drones because it was narrated by one of my favorite voices, Scott Bennett, and he did an excellent job! I would have enjoyed hearing this with a female narrator joining him, but I still loved it!
Waypoint: A Game of Drones is easily a 4-star book, and I can’t wait to hear the next one!
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June 4, 2018
I loved the mix of technology, sci-fi, video game culture and AI in this story. It has it all; secret organizations, intrigue, suspense, drones, video games, intelligence operations, action and a worldwide hunt for an experiment gone rogue. It is fast paced with well developed characters that have many flaws and quirks, and who are likeable and not so likeable at the same time. I loved the inclusion of Stacey’s backstory that was scatted throughout the book, it slowly revealed tragedies that had brought her so low at the beginning of the story. The narrator of the book did a great job of giving the characters individual voices, making you feel the tension and matching the pace to the action in the story. Even though he did a good job of the female voices, I would have loved to have heard this story with him and a female counterpart. This book kept my attention from the start, it is a fast-paced global adventure with plenty of twists and turns and a great cast of characters.
June 6, 2017
C.F. Waller does it again
At this point I have read all of Waller's books. And I am hard-pressed to think of a finer author. This book is another example of his brilliance. An amazing cast of characters in a huge world to explore. Topical themes from today's news blend with characters both sympathetic and shady. Stacy/Lydia the damaged would be hero is a complex yet humorous main player in this game of drones. As the world as her back drop, the amazing story unfolds. And what an unbelievably great story! I literally read this book in one sitting. It was that good. I could not stop . I advise everyone to read this book as well as his other books. it has been a long time since I have read an author so amazingly talented. Thanks Waller. I can't wait to see what your brain devises next!
At this point I have read all of Waller's books. And I am hard-pressed to think of a finer author. This book is another example of his brilliance. An amazing cast of characters in a huge world to explore. Topical themes from today's news blend with characters both sympathetic and shady. Stacy/Lydia the damaged would be hero is a complex yet humorous main player in this game of drones. As the world as her back drop, the amazing story unfolds. And what an unbelievably great story! I literally read this book in one sitting. It was that good. I could not stop . I advise everyone to read this book as well as his other books. it has been a long time since I have read an author so amazingly talented. Thanks Waller. I can't wait to see what your brain devises next!
October 7, 2017
Stacy just can't see a future any more, at the rock bottom of life when her cell phone rings as she is holding a gun on a woman who is responsible for Stacy losing her job. Hal an old friend of her husband's and hers who she had not heard from in years, is offering her a job with great pay but she has to leave now. Next thing she is on a ship in the middle of the Indian Ocean with a new name and watching a case being retrieved from the bottom of the ocean which was in a Gulfstrearm. Happens to be a wife variety of planes down there completely unknown to anyone. A Drone is involved, taken over by a gamer. Stacy has to find someone who knows this guy and how to contact him. Soon he is coming after Stacy. Lots of things happen to her and she is on the go trying to stay ahead of the gamer and trying to find the case which is very dangerous.
May 22, 2018
( Format : Audiobook )
"I offer ten turns of peace."
Simply fabulous. And terrifying.
Having previously read Waller's, Tourists of the Apocalypse, I requested, and was generously freely gifted with a complimentary copy, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. The book exceeded my expectations.
This fast paced, thrill filled techno attacking story grips from the opening moments with the mysterious falling of a commercial aircraft, passengers and crew unconscious, into the sea. And it simply doesn't stop. Mystery and adventure, deaths and government complicity. The characters feel all too real, the implications terrifying. The narration, too, is superb with J.Scott Bennett's performance doing full justice to text and protagonist voices alike.
A must read which never falters.
"I offer ten turns of peace."
Simply fabulous. And terrifying.
Having previously read Waller's, Tourists of the Apocalypse, I requested, and was generously freely gifted with a complimentary copy, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. The book exceeded my expectations.
This fast paced, thrill filled techno attacking story grips from the opening moments with the mysterious falling of a commercial aircraft, passengers and crew unconscious, into the sea. And it simply doesn't stop. Mystery and adventure, deaths and government complicity. The characters feel all too real, the implications terrifying. The narration, too, is superb with J.Scott Bennett's performance doing full justice to text and protagonist voices alike.
A must read which never falters.
September 14, 2018
I was fascinated from the first page. What started as a really promising suspense evolved into the most fascinating techno thriller I've read in a long time.
It's wargames on steroids with the most wily oponent that you could ever think to face. I have to say, their solution in combatting the opponent from hell? Priceless.
It did feel as if there was a back story that the reader somehow missed out on. I'm not sure if this is part of a series or if there will be a sequel, but there is more to be said about Stacy.
And with that mega cliffhanger I hope there is a number 2.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
It's wargames on steroids with the most wily oponent that you could ever think to face. I have to say, their solution in combatting the opponent from hell? Priceless.
It did feel as if there was a back story that the reader somehow missed out on. I'm not sure if this is part of a series or if there will be a sequel, but there is more to be said about Stacy.
And with that mega cliffhanger I hope there is a number 2.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 18, 2017
Quick read
I did finish the book but hoped all the while that the dumpy middle-aged chain smoking protagonist would somehow become more likable. The plot line was original but it's still escapes me why this woman was 'recruited' to do the things she did. She seemed to have no skills or interest. Example: she is blackmailed into doing a nearly suicidal mission where the lives of hundreds (at least) of people are in the balance. Her qualifications for this task are mysteriously never explained. I found myself reading on to see if there was possibly something interesting on the horizon...alas there was not.
I did finish the book but hoped all the while that the dumpy middle-aged chain smoking protagonist would somehow become more likable. The plot line was original but it's still escapes me why this woman was 'recruited' to do the things she did. She seemed to have no skills or interest. Example: she is blackmailed into doing a nearly suicidal mission where the lives of hundreds (at least) of people are in the balance. Her qualifications for this task are mysteriously never explained. I found myself reading on to see if there was possibly something interesting on the horizon...alas there was not.
May 14, 2018
This story is really far-fetched. It's not well-explained science fiction. But the characters are well-drawn and just quirky enough to be interesting. And there's enough suspense to keep one listening.
There are two endings. An epilogue follows the first ending, but it's not necessary to the story or its conclusion and would have been best omitted.
J. Scott Bennett's performance is very good, although there were places where I found it difficult to follow who was speaking during dialog. More distinction between character voices would have been helpful.
NOTE: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
There are two endings. An epilogue follows the first ending, but it's not necessary to the story or its conclusion and would have been best omitted.
J. Scott Bennett's performance is very good, although there were places where I found it difficult to follow who was speaking during dialog. More distinction between character voices would have been helpful.
NOTE: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 10, 2018
As usual CF Waller doesn’t disappoint. Always imaginative and loaded with action his writing is completely original.
Stacy/Lydia is a woman with nothing to lose. Hal is a mystery all his own.
Darius may or may not be an actual person we’ve yet to have revealed to us. I’m hoping to one day find out.
I’m excited for the possibility of a sequel and these characters being revisited.
If you haven’t read any of Waller’s work I highly recommend any of his books.
Bennett did a great job with narration and Waller has used him before. They make a great team.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the publisher/author but voluntarily give my honest review.
Stacy/Lydia is a woman with nothing to lose. Hal is a mystery all his own.
Darius may or may not be an actual person we’ve yet to have revealed to us. I’m hoping to one day find out.
I’m excited for the possibility of a sequel and these characters being revisited.
If you haven’t read any of Waller’s work I highly recommend any of his books.
Bennett did a great job with narration and Waller has used him before. They make a great team.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the publisher/author but voluntarily give my honest review.
June 15, 2017
I enjoyed this one. I normally read romance but I like to switch it up occasionally so when I received an ARC I was excited to delve into this book. As A Game of Thrones fan (the books) I was intrigued by the title. The book was actually quite funny although people do die so it is serious too. Basically it is a video game turned into real life. My son is a gamer so I enjoyed that aspect. A computer is just trying to win the game. This book had so many twists and turns that kept me guessing. The ending is one of the best endings.
July 22, 2017
Quite an Adventure
This one is hard to get a handle on. There is a lot going on from drones to games to spooks. Overall it hangs together well and finishes nicely with future potential.
The author does a great job of making the main character real with lots of backstory, current crises and real emotion.
There are a few typos, a little proofreading would help.
Good lord they smoke a lot in this book. I'm not a smoker and it made my lungs hurt reading it.
All in all, I think you'll like it, give it a shot.
This one is hard to get a handle on. There is a lot going on from drones to games to spooks. Overall it hangs together well and finishes nicely with future potential.
The author does a great job of making the main character real with lots of backstory, current crises and real emotion.
There are a few typos, a little proofreading would help.
Good lord they smoke a lot in this book. I'm not a smoker and it made my lungs hurt reading it.
All in all, I think you'll like it, give it a shot.
July 22, 2017
Borderline 4-Star
This is an amusing tale with A LOT of cigarette smoking, which might be why I didn't lean towards a more favorable Rating. This book turned up when I did a search for "airplane crashes" ... technically, this story does cover that subject -- but, it's not the main thrust of the story. Still, I'm not against SciFi or this kind of novel -- it just shouldn't have been one of the results in my search.
This is an amusing tale with A LOT of cigarette smoking, which might be why I didn't lean towards a more favorable Rating. This book turned up when I did a search for "airplane crashes" ... technically, this story does cover that subject -- but, it's not the main thrust of the story. Still, I'm not against SciFi or this kind of novel -- it just shouldn't have been one of the results in my search.
June 17, 2017
Review
This is the first book I have read by this author and I am thrilled to have discovered such an incredible talent. I have not read such a brilliant thriller for a very long time. It is an exceptionally exciting book written by a very knowledgeable person. I intend to read all the published books on kindle and I will be recommending them as well..org
This is the first book I have read by this author and I am thrilled to have discovered such an incredible talent. I have not read such a brilliant thriller for a very long time. It is an exceptionally exciting book written by a very knowledgeable person. I intend to read all the published books on kindle and I will be recommending them as well..org
September 23, 2017
Waypoint is an enjoyable science fiction/mystery that keeps the reader involved and guessing. It's also worth noting that the book is well-written. It glides by quite easily and in an entertaining way.
I recommend Waypoint for a little blending of genres, as a story where the next points do sometimes come as a surprise, and as a well-done introduction to someone who is a new author for me.
I recommend Waypoint for a little blending of genres, as a story where the next points do sometimes come as a surprise, and as a well-done introduction to someone who is a new author for me.
February 10, 2018
Okay.
This is my favorite book by this author. But it is an interesting take on an artificial intelligence taking over and being bad, think Sarah Connor!
This is my favorite book by this author. But it is an interesting take on an artificial intelligence taking over and being bad, think Sarah Connor!
January 8, 2019
Awesome! Right up there with Tourists of the Apocalypse
December 20, 2019
Great suspense
Starts low key suspense and builds and builds and keeps building. A really good job of keeping you involved in the story. Great job
Starts low key suspense and builds and builds and keeps building. A really good job of keeping you involved in the story. Great job
December 3, 2017
"Out here in the middle of nowhere feels less like a cruise and more like a disaster movie."
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story. I was very pleasantly surprised.
Stacy aka Lydia Knox lost her beloved daughter to a drunken driver a few years back and then her husband committed suicide. She is at the bottom of a deep downward spiral when she receives a call from Hal, an old friend of her husband's that gets her involved in trying to save the world.
I loved this protagonist. She is broken in so many ways but when she commits to something, she really commits her everything.
She's been working at an Old Navy store but in the past worked for a high tech security company. Hal phones her JUST in time to save her from herself and soon she's on her way to a ship in the middle of the Indian Ocean and the craziness and mysteries start to pile up just as fast as I was able to turn pages.
You do have to read this book with an open mind but it is an action-packed adventure from page one.
It reminded me in many good ways of the old movie WAR GAMES, which I still enjoy watching periodically.
Oh, and I love Lydia's choice in a best friend.
I did read this as an Advanced Reading Copy from Books Go Social through Net Galley and I hope that a good proofreader went through the book before publication. There were lots of mistakes in this copy, more than I've seen in an ARC for quite some time. They were noticeable but didn't stop my enjoyment of the book. I received the book in the hopes that I would read it and then review it.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story. I was very pleasantly surprised.
Stacy aka Lydia Knox lost her beloved daughter to a drunken driver a few years back and then her husband committed suicide. She is at the bottom of a deep downward spiral when she receives a call from Hal, an old friend of her husband's that gets her involved in trying to save the world.
I loved this protagonist. She is broken in so many ways but when she commits to something, she really commits her everything.
She's been working at an Old Navy store but in the past worked for a high tech security company. Hal phones her JUST in time to save her from herself and soon she's on her way to a ship in the middle of the Indian Ocean and the craziness and mysteries start to pile up just as fast as I was able to turn pages.
You do have to read this book with an open mind but it is an action-packed adventure from page one.
It reminded me in many good ways of the old movie WAR GAMES, which I still enjoy watching periodically.
Oh, and I love Lydia's choice in a best friend.
I did read this as an Advanced Reading Copy from Books Go Social through Net Galley and I hope that a good proofreader went through the book before publication. There were lots of mistakes in this copy, more than I've seen in an ARC for quite some time. They were noticeable but didn't stop my enjoyment of the book. I received the book in the hopes that I would read it and then review it.
June 19, 2018
Disclaimer.
I had requested and received audible version of this book for free from the narrator, in exchange for an unbiased review.
What I liked about the book -
If you love reading stories that have a unique take on a familiar plot, you will love this book. This has a pretty unique take on computer ruling the world. There's a gaming angle and of course, super advanced AI. The characters are multi-layered and not black or white. The complexity of the characters makes the story all that stronger. The story moves at a fast pace and is action packed. It builds tension as it progresses and we get all answers at the end. Thankfully it doesn't have any cliffhangers.
What I disliked about the book -
Nothing super bad worth mentioning.
Narration -
Though narration by J. Scott Bennett was very well done, I wish it had a female narrator. A large part of the book is from a female PoV and hence a male narrator voicing that somewhat of a mismatch. Not saying that Scott Bennett botched it. He did use different voices for both male and female characters and they are distinguishable. Still, I would've preferred a female narrator for the long female portions at least.
I had requested and received audible version of this book for free from the narrator, in exchange for an unbiased review.
What I liked about the book -
If you love reading stories that have a unique take on a familiar plot, you will love this book. This has a pretty unique take on computer ruling the world. There's a gaming angle and of course, super advanced AI. The characters are multi-layered and not black or white. The complexity of the characters makes the story all that stronger. The story moves at a fast pace and is action packed. It builds tension as it progresses and we get all answers at the end. Thankfully it doesn't have any cliffhangers.
What I disliked about the book -
Nothing super bad worth mentioning.
Narration -
Though narration by J. Scott Bennett was very well done, I wish it had a female narrator. A large part of the book is from a female PoV and hence a male narrator voicing that somewhat of a mismatch. Not saying that Scott Bennett botched it. He did use different voices for both male and female characters and they are distinguishable. Still, I would've preferred a female narrator for the long female portions at least.
February 25, 2018
Slightly disappointing compared to the authors other novels.
Pros
Well written, great action/ adventure. Flawed but likeable characters.
Cons
Too long for Its’s content. Story arcs that are left incomplete, quite a few typo’s and editing problems and the Genre is not really to my taste- Techno-thriller, nah really not my thing.
Also quick question to those in U.S, do you really consider donuts (doughnuts spelt incorrectly) a breakfast meal? Ever?
I physically felt ill when after surviving on donuts and coffee for most of the story, Lydia (Stacey) snubs a sandwich and buys more donuts. Yuk
Merged review:
Great!
Pros
Well written, great action/ adventure. Flawed but likeable characters.
Cons
Too long for Its’s content. Story arcs that are left incomplete, quite a few typo’s and editing problems and the Genre is not really to my taste- Techno-thriller, nah really not my thing.
Also quick question to those in U.S, do you really consider donuts (doughnuts spelt incorrectly) a breakfast meal? Ever?
I physically felt ill when after surviving on donuts and coffee for most of the story, Lydia (Stacey) snubs a sandwich and buys more donuts. Yuk
Merged review:
Great!
December 23, 2019
This is one of those creepy tech stories that will have you rethinking your mode of transportation. It was soooo good. The first couple of chapters were a bit slow but once you got past that, it was riveting. Imagine an AI taking over all electronics thinking that it’s all a game! Highly recommend this book if you like that genre.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2019
Graveyard of missing planes below the ocean. If ones knows pilots, or books by them it is a strong belief, as is the black hole.
To hear the audio by Scott Bennett, brings this haunting story to life.
Well done, riveting 12 hours of an adventure that one could believe was real.
To hear the audio by Scott Bennett, brings this haunting story to life.
Well done, riveting 12 hours of an adventure that one could believe was real.
August 13, 2017
Reviewed for Readers Favorite
July 15, 2018
Awesome!Game takes over the world.War Games updated.Excellent narration by J Scott Bennett.I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
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