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Sam Sunborn #1
Not So Dead
What if you could live forever, would you do it?"There's a cutting-edge current to every page that's hard to resist, so get ready to engage your heart and your mind." - Steve Berry, New York Times Best Selling AuthorWhat could go wrong when a team of brilliant computer scientists achieves immortality by digitizing their personalities? Everything - if the government wants the technology and you've crossed paths with a band of ruthless terrorists bent on causing unspeakable damage.Follow Sam Sunborn as he teams up with a real Einstein to give birth to an invention that could change the lives of everyone on the planet forever. Sam wants to help people with his invention but lands up having to defend it and his family from a sadistic psychopath known only as the Leopard, a driven and demented terrorist, whose mission is to rain chaos and destruction on the Western World. Using the latest technology and a battle of wills and wits, Sunborn and the Leopard engage in an epic global clash. What disasters befall the innocent in the Leopard's wake? Can Sam and his rag-tag team use wit and will alone to prevent a worldwide catastrophe? Mysteries and surprises abound in this fast-paced thriller.NOT SO DEAD is the first standalone book in the Sam Sunborn series of cutting-edge techno-thrillers. If you like Michael Crichton, Tom Clancy, and Robert Ludlum, then you'll love NOT SO DEAD that combines all of their best traits in a captivating, current-times to a near-future global thrill ride. If you enjoy heart-pounding action, mind-bending inventions, and terrifying villains, then you'll love Charles Levin's gripping saga. Buy NOT SO DEAD and plug into this exciting thrill-ride today!"A tense, high-powered techno-thriller." - Kirkus ReviewCharlie's 23-year background in tech, a degree in philosophy and love of fast-paced thrillers are the brew that created NOT SO DEAD. He lives in New Jersey with his wife, Amy, and has two sons, too far away in California. NOT SO DEAD is Book 1 in A Sam Sunborn Novel Series.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2017
417 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
About the author
Charles Levin
6 books11 followersCharlie's 23-year background in tech, a degree in philosophy and love of fast-paced thrillers are the brew that created NOT SO DEAD, NOT SO GONE, and NOT SO DONE.
He is the founder of Pathfinder Consulting Group, which builds, maintains. And markets multi-million-dollar websites together with providing Strategic Planning and Business Development services. He lives in New Jersey with his wife, Amy, and has two grown sons, too far away in California.
He is the founder of Pathfinder Consulting Group, which builds, maintains. And markets multi-million-dollar websites together with providing Strategic Planning and Business Development services. He lives in New Jersey with his wife, Amy, and has two grown sons, too far away in California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 19, 2018
Will explain why only 2 stars.
This book is first book in this series, also the first book of knowledgeable tech guy. His head was full of twist, and he try the include all of them, this made it slow and confusing. Started "intheeventofmydeath.info about year 2020. Terrorism, 9/11 type, after many slow and boring chapters ended. Ask myself what do I know about the characters? Answer is not much. Will think long and hard for taking time to read the second book.
This book is first book in this series, also the first book of knowledgeable tech guy. His head was full of twist, and he try the include all of them, this made it slow and confusing. Started "intheeventofmydeath.info about year 2020. Terrorism, 9/11 type, after many slow and boring chapters ended. Ask myself what do I know about the characters? Answer is not much. Will think long and hard for taking time to read the second book.
May 23, 2019
Interesting with an unusual premise in the book.
Sam and others had to save the world in this book. Without a spoiler, a lot of very bad things were going to happen all over the globe, and they were the only ones who could prevent it.
Early in the book, it had a great premise of downloading all of someone’s brain into a computer, to include the person’s personality. They were working on this as a business idea but had to use it to help solve the big world issue. Not a wholly new idea, but still interesting. And turning that digital person loose on the World Wide Web was a little frightening. One good guy is okay but imagine everyone, good, bad, and others. It would be a nightmare, maybe the end of the world, as we know it. I wish they had developed this more, but still thought-provoking. This is independent of the actual person being alive or dead. So you the blood and guts person will still die. But your digital version keeps on going.
Easy to read and well worth the time. I recommend it!
Sam and others had to save the world in this book. Without a spoiler, a lot of very bad things were going to happen all over the globe, and they were the only ones who could prevent it.
Early in the book, it had a great premise of downloading all of someone’s brain into a computer, to include the person’s personality. They were working on this as a business idea but had to use it to help solve the big world issue. Not a wholly new idea, but still interesting. And turning that digital person loose on the World Wide Web was a little frightening. One good guy is okay but imagine everyone, good, bad, and others. It would be a nightmare, maybe the end of the world, as we know it. I wish they had developed this more, but still thought-provoking. This is independent of the actual person being alive or dead. So you the blood and guts person will still die. But your digital version keeps on going.
Easy to read and well worth the time. I recommend it!
May 21, 2018
Futuristic!
Interesting premise, realistic settings, well written. It reads like a piece of speculative fiction with thrilling elements. Enjoyable as well. Recommended to fans of the genre.
Interesting premise, realistic settings, well written. It reads like a piece of speculative fiction with thrilling elements. Enjoyable as well. Recommended to fans of the genre.
January 28, 2021
I was surprised at the ending, as I didn't see that coming. Boy, the character "The Leopard" was certainly a creepy and unlikable person. This story was mystery, action, techno and sci fi all wrapped up in one story. It was also the good versus evil concept with an international influence. Great concept of living eternally as a digital version of ourselves.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the story and look forward to listening to the next book in the series.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the story and look forward to listening to the next book in the series.
June 21, 2018
I have read hundreds of mystery books in my lifetime and very seldom can I say that the ending was a total surprise. In this book, the ending with regards to Sam was totally unexpected to me. I truly enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait for the sequel.
Currently reading
February 3, 2021free electronic copy via Amazon
October 29, 2018
Every once in a while a writer comes along who is really good. Every once in a while you get a lucky break, where a genre you are not really sure you want to read, or a topic or story you are not really sure you are going to like comes along, and you take a chance. Such is the case with Charles Levin's Not So Dead.
I am so glad I got this book! I am so glad I took a chance! Charlie is an extremely talented and well-rounded writer, one who knows his material, one who researches thoroughly, and one who edits meticulously to bring about a phenomenal read that I simply could not put down - and lost a lot of sleep over.
In a nutshell, Charlie researched his work very thoroughly, meaning the concept and the technologies to support his story of virtual people who used to be flesh and blood. In addition, either he worked for 3 letter government agencies or researched and learned about them and observed them well enough to know precisely how they work. And he got it right. He also characterized the villains, the Leopard and the Cub to perfection. These extremist terrorists he got spot on, and bone-chillingly accurate. To the point where I assume he was writing from life experience. Or he fooled me.
The book reads like a non-stop high octane thriller. The kind you lose sleep over (and I did, repeatedly for a week). It is about 10 minutes into the future, and features sections from different points of view to keep it flowing and lively. There is no respite and no down time in this book, so don't expect it: Brace yourself, fasten your seatbelt, and hang on!
It is truly an emotional roller-coaster ride, ranging from horror to terror to fury to angst and even love and passion. Not So Dead really covers the gamut of the human experience in a very realistic and experiential way that is totally believable and totally sucks you in and doesn't let go.
I am really hoping that we will see more of Sam Sunborn and more in this (hopeful) series from Charles. The books must take a long time to research and write, but I am a patient man. I definitely want more!
Thanks for delivering a great thrill ride, Charlie, and please keep the stories coming!
I am so glad I got this book! I am so glad I took a chance! Charlie is an extremely talented and well-rounded writer, one who knows his material, one who researches thoroughly, and one who edits meticulously to bring about a phenomenal read that I simply could not put down - and lost a lot of sleep over.
In a nutshell, Charlie researched his work very thoroughly, meaning the concept and the technologies to support his story of virtual people who used to be flesh and blood. In addition, either he worked for 3 letter government agencies or researched and learned about them and observed them well enough to know precisely how they work. And he got it right. He also characterized the villains, the Leopard and the Cub to perfection. These extremist terrorists he got spot on, and bone-chillingly accurate. To the point where I assume he was writing from life experience. Or he fooled me.
The book reads like a non-stop high octane thriller. The kind you lose sleep over (and I did, repeatedly for a week). It is about 10 minutes into the future, and features sections from different points of view to keep it flowing and lively. There is no respite and no down time in this book, so don't expect it: Brace yourself, fasten your seatbelt, and hang on!
It is truly an emotional roller-coaster ride, ranging from horror to terror to fury to angst and even love and passion. Not So Dead really covers the gamut of the human experience in a very realistic and experiential way that is totally believable and totally sucks you in and doesn't let go.
I am really hoping that we will see more of Sam Sunborn and more in this (hopeful) series from Charles. The books must take a long time to research and write, but I am a patient man. I definitely want more!
Thanks for delivering a great thrill ride, Charlie, and please keep the stories coming!
Want to read
January 13, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/13/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
In NOT SO DEAD, our technologist hero and his quirky team achieve immortality by digitizing their personalities. What could go wrong? Clever and ruthless terrorists want it at any cost. A high-stakes cat and mouse game ensues with apocalyptic danger at every turn.
Follow Sam Sunborn as he teams up with a real Einstein to give birth to an invention that could change the lives of everyone on the planet forever. Sam wants to help people through his invention, but lands up having to defend it and his family from the Leopard, a driven and demented terrorist, whose mission is to rein chaos and destruction on the Western World. Using the latest technology and a battle of wills and wits, Sunborn and the Leopard engage in an epic global clash. What disasters befall the innocent in the Leopard’s wake? Can Michelle Hadar, a lowly grad student, and Rich Little, a talented Homeland Agent, possibly come to the rescue?
Blurb:
In NOT SO DEAD, our technologist hero and his quirky team achieve immortality by digitizing their personalities. What could go wrong? Clever and ruthless terrorists want it at any cost. A high-stakes cat and mouse game ensues with apocalyptic danger at every turn.
Follow Sam Sunborn as he teams up with a real Einstein to give birth to an invention that could change the lives of everyone on the planet forever. Sam wants to help people through his invention, but lands up having to defend it and his family from the Leopard, a driven and demented terrorist, whose mission is to rein chaos and destruction on the Western World. Using the latest technology and a battle of wills and wits, Sunborn and the Leopard engage in an epic global clash. What disasters befall the innocent in the Leopard’s wake? Can Michelle Hadar, a lowly grad student, and Rich Little, a talented Homeland Agent, possibly come to the rescue?
November 29, 2017
A thriller that will keep you on your toes and thinking
Not So Dead is a can’t put down thriller. From start to finish it is action packed with twists and turns that took me by total surprise but worked brilliantly.
Set in the tech world of the not so distant future Levin’s writing style is easy, accessible and often amusing as he not only entertains us but poses some timely and provocative philosophical and ethical questions.
From the West Coast of the US to the East Coast and back again we follow the brilliant Sam Sunborn as he tries to save his country and the world from what could be a very real terror.
The end will stun you! I highly recommend this debut novel and pray there is a sequel!!
Not So Dead is a can’t put down thriller. From start to finish it is action packed with twists and turns that took me by total surprise but worked brilliantly.
Set in the tech world of the not so distant future Levin’s writing style is easy, accessible and often amusing as he not only entertains us but poses some timely and provocative philosophical and ethical questions.
From the West Coast of the US to the East Coast and back again we follow the brilliant Sam Sunborn as he tries to save his country and the world from what could be a very real terror.
The end will stun you! I highly recommend this debut novel and pray there is a sequel!!
October 18, 2017
I wasn't sure what I was going to get with this book... but it turned out to be a mystery-slash-thriller-slash-sci fi that I read cover to cover in two days (could have been one if I didn't need sleep).
The technical stuff could almost be happening today, it's so au courant with trends in IE.
The plot moves along briskly but it all makes internal sense.
Sam Sunborn is an interesting character. I'm hoping to get to know his wife a little better in the sequel.
The technical stuff could almost be happening today, it's so au courant with trends in IE.
The plot moves along briskly but it all makes internal sense.
Sam Sunborn is an interesting character. I'm hoping to get to know his wife a little better in the sequel.
October 23, 2017
Not So Dead is a brilliant debut, full of twists and turns, suspenseful from beginning to end. Moreover, it's a lot of fun to read, filled with tech wizardry and information but also with plenty of humor. Don't think you have to be a techie to enjoy this book! Once you start this, it will be hard to put down.
Emily Anthony
Emily Anthony
Read
February 13, 2018There were a few parts that disgusted me. There were parts that were offensive. But, the author made you really Hate the villain. It was a real villain. No confusion there. The story was one that I thought back on while I was working. There were philosophical conundrums that I had to question. This occupied my mind when I wasn’t reading the book. When I had time, I was reading. This wasn’t a book I could casually read. Attention was always on this book. I had to have it going even when I only had a spare two minutes in the bathroom. Page turner? Oh yes! I do recommend this book.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed.
June 27, 2021
Futuristic stuff
AI scares me but this book has given me something else to consider. And that ending.......not something I saw coming. This story was well paced and written so well that it was all so seamless. Very much a book everyone should read
AI scares me but this book has given me something else to consider. And that ending.......not something I saw coming. This story was well paced and written so well that it was all so seamless. Very much a book everyone should read
July 2, 2018
Wow, who would of thought this book would have left me reading all night. Had to find out what happens to Sam and his invention of immortality. Terrorists want it too. Excitement till the end.
May 25, 2018
This was an engaging read with action and p romise....up to the point where the author fell back on that old bugaboo, the destructive potential of a nuclear power plant. Under NuReg o654 such power plants are nearly sublimely safe against accidents and sabotage with multiple failsafes causing reactor "scram" with the onset of nearly any event. The explosion of spent fuel rods when deprived of water coolant is rather unlikely to say the least. The denouement was disappointing.
December 15, 2021
I'm finally reading the first story in this series. Yes, yes, I know, not how it should be read, but it's what happened :P
And I must say that I enjoyed it, terribly. The premise is fantastic, the plot really good and, even when I knew what was coming, the ending still managed to surprise me.
I loved the concept of a full personality uploaded on the net, and how this would affect that personality. I found really interesting the idea that these virtual persons would still be suffering from their mental issues, and the way in which Frank Einstein deals with it (No, seriously, that's his name :P). But he has been thinking about it for a long time:
This is a fascinating thriller, fast-paced and filled with action but it's also a thought-provoking, captivating tale about what make us human, about our dependence on technology and by the end I find myself wondering, as San Sunborn does, what's next?
And I must say that I enjoyed it, terribly. The premise is fantastic, the plot really good and, even when I knew what was coming, the ending still managed to surprise me.
I loved the concept of a full personality uploaded on the net, and how this would affect that personality. I found really interesting the idea that these virtual persons would still be suffering from their mental issues, and the way in which Frank Einstein deals with it (No, seriously, that's his name :P). But he has been thinking about it for a long time:
“Let me just rattle off a few. Who would get the privilege of being digitally or virtually immortal? Who decides? How much does it cost? What if a DigiPerson becomes sick mentally and becomes destructive? Who are the police, judge and jury? What about viruses?”
My head was already spinning and all I could muster was, “Oh…I had not thought about those things.”
He continued. “Another thing. Would the person be completely digital or would she at least retain the sense of a physical self?”
He seemed to be gathering steam. “Here’s my ‘favorite.’ What if somebody creates multiple instances of themselves? How do they coexist? What kind of problems would multiple ‘yous’ cause? We know twins or even clones aren’t exact matches and diverge immediately from being real copies of their counterparts the minute they are born. But the kind of copies we are talking about are exact. I think these and many more problems need to be solved before we let the genie out, or it could literally destroy the world as we know it.”
He took a breath. “I’m not sure who’s competent to solve these problems, who doesn’t have a special interest. If you tell the government, i.e. my bosses, they’ll think about how to make a weapon out of it. If you tell the university, who knows what they’ll do. From a business perspective, it’s worth billions. Now you know why I have been acting strangely.”
This is a fascinating thriller, fast-paced and filled with action but it's also a thought-provoking, captivating tale about what make us human, about our dependence on technology and by the end I find myself wondering, as San Sunborn does, what's next?
February 9, 2018
I have both the audio version and the eBook version. The review is based on the eBook.
If the author is reading this I am sure he will get the pun I am about to make as he references it a few time in the book.
This book takes place 20 seconds into the future. Unlike the other dystopian books I have read, this is more of a normal future. We have our alphabet soup of government agencies. We have people who love each other, people who protect them, and people who are just people. But I get ahead of myself.
The idea of the book is that in the near future we will have one group of people who will be able to create digital copies of themselves so that after they are dead, they can interact with their love ones. This is close to a concept that many countries as well as a few terrorist organizations are working on. Sam Sunborn and partner Frank Einstein are attacked by terrorist leader the Leopard. Frank is killed in the process. He just happened to be wearing the device to digitize himself at the time so all of his information up to the point of death is available to him.
From this point they travel across the US trying to capture the Leopard with a local police detective and Rich Little from Homeland Security (no not the famous one). As they travel you get pulled into the story and start to like each one of the characters. You want to keep turning the page, or in my case, listen just a few minutes more. I listen to audiobooks while driving to and from work. When I would get to my destination many times I would sit there and at least finish the chapter I was in.
Age wise I would say older teen through adult. Killing is a big part of the story. If you are interested in suspense stories with a little science fiction, this would be a good choice for you. I would recommend it.
If the author is reading this I am sure he will get the pun I am about to make as he references it a few time in the book.
This book takes place 20 seconds into the future. Unlike the other dystopian books I have read, this is more of a normal future. We have our alphabet soup of government agencies. We have people who love each other, people who protect them, and people who are just people. But I get ahead of myself.
The idea of the book is that in the near future we will have one group of people who will be able to create digital copies of themselves so that after they are dead, they can interact with their love ones. This is close to a concept that many countries as well as a few terrorist organizations are working on. Sam Sunborn and partner Frank Einstein are attacked by terrorist leader the Leopard. Frank is killed in the process. He just happened to be wearing the device to digitize himself at the time so all of his information up to the point of death is available to him.
From this point they travel across the US trying to capture the Leopard with a local police detective and Rich Little from Homeland Security (no not the famous one). As they travel you get pulled into the story and start to like each one of the characters. You want to keep turning the page, or in my case, listen just a few minutes more. I listen to audiobooks while driving to and from work. When I would get to my destination many times I would sit there and at least finish the chapter I was in.
Age wise I would say older teen through adult. Killing is a big part of the story. If you are interested in suspense stories with a little science fiction, this would be a good choice for you. I would recommend it.
November 8, 2018
Not So Dead Indeed-Read to Find out Why
Wow. This is a rip roaring E ticket ride into the near future. I say near because all of the tech mentioned in this book is in various stages of development. The author even provides links at the end of the book.
This is a techno thriller with an unusual premise. Can we digitally upload ourselves when we die and live on in cyberspace? In this book we find out that we can. We follow the events of Sam Sunborn and his tech site that uploads mementos of the deceased for loved ones. His bright idea of uploading actual memory and human intelligence begins an adventure fighting a brilliant terrorist. To mention anything else will spoil the elaborately plotted book. The plot moves quickly, perhaps too quickly, with many characters introduced. I had to re-read and listen to certain passages more than once just to make sure I was caught up. There are a number of twists and turns, some I could guess and others I could not. I did not see the ending coming at all. I read this book using immersion reading while listening to the audio book. Daniel Greenberg was a fantastic narrator, perfectly hitting the right tone of this work. A fantastic thriller from a new author. I also enjoyed how the tech did not overwhelm the story, it was explained during the course of the book at proper intervals. An enjoyable read with determined heroes and a despicable villain, this book is a wonderful standout in a somewhat crowded field.
Wow. This is a rip roaring E ticket ride into the near future. I say near because all of the tech mentioned in this book is in various stages of development. The author even provides links at the end of the book.
This is a techno thriller with an unusual premise. Can we digitally upload ourselves when we die and live on in cyberspace? In this book we find out that we can. We follow the events of Sam Sunborn and his tech site that uploads mementos of the deceased for loved ones. His bright idea of uploading actual memory and human intelligence begins an adventure fighting a brilliant terrorist. To mention anything else will spoil the elaborately plotted book. The plot moves quickly, perhaps too quickly, with many characters introduced. I had to re-read and listen to certain passages more than once just to make sure I was caught up. There are a number of twists and turns, some I could guess and others I could not. I did not see the ending coming at all. I read this book using immersion reading while listening to the audio book. Daniel Greenberg was a fantastic narrator, perfectly hitting the right tone of this work. A fantastic thriller from a new author. I also enjoyed how the tech did not overwhelm the story, it was explained during the course of the book at proper intervals. An enjoyable read with determined heroes and a despicable villain, this book is a wonderful standout in a somewhat crowded field.
August 29, 2017
Sam Sunborn, a technology entrepreneur, teams up with a descendant of Albert Einstein to create a program that allows them to digitize memories and personalities and store them on the Internet. When a determined terrorist, The Leopard, learns of their invention, he’s determined to get his hands on it in his quest to destroy the United States. With a team of nonconformists, a digitized ‘Einstein’, and a federal agent willing to bend the rules, Sam races against time to thwart the Leopard’s deadly plans.
Not So Dead by Charles Levin is a quirky novel, combining technology (real and imagined), politics, and terror in a literary thrill ride that’s every bit as exciting as a roller coaster with multiple hairpin turns and loops. The author weaves a fantastic tale that has enough real technology to be credible, and enough excitement for even the hardest action junkie.
The ending is not quite a cliff hanger, but sets the reader up for sequels nicely.
Not So Dead by Charles Levin is a quirky novel, combining technology (real and imagined), politics, and terror in a literary thrill ride that’s every bit as exciting as a roller coaster with multiple hairpin turns and loops. The author weaves a fantastic tale that has enough real technology to be credible, and enough excitement for even the hardest action junkie.
The ending is not quite a cliff hanger, but sets the reader up for sequels nicely.
June 3, 2018
Alphabet Soup
Absolutely stupendous book! And this is Levin's first book. What an exciting future of fabulous books are ahead of us by this exceptionally talented writer. Levin's Not So Dead is right on the leading edge of AI and human interaction. This book hits all the bases and we can be confident that it is all realistic due to Levin's 20 years experience and exceptional research. Plus, he's a terrific writer. I was given a copy of this book, for which I am extremely grateful. I freely volunteered to write this review. This is a completely consuming thriller.
Absolutely stupendous book! And this is Levin's first book. What an exciting future of fabulous books are ahead of us by this exceptionally talented writer. Levin's Not So Dead is right on the leading edge of AI and human interaction. This book hits all the bases and we can be confident that it is all realistic due to Levin's 20 years experience and exceptional research. Plus, he's a terrific writer. I was given a copy of this book, for which I am extremely grateful. I freely volunteered to write this review. This is a completely consuming thriller.
June 5, 2018
Thrilling, exciting, addictive and most importantly, fun to read! A story about terrorism done in a completely new way. Not So Dead is a contemporary novel that could be newspaper headlines tomorrow. Can't wait for the next book!
May 17, 2018
The future is here
From start to finish, this story will keep your interest. Every part of the story is so believable. The author has used his background to develop a story that could have been taken directly from today’s news.
From start to finish, this story will keep your interest. Every part of the story is so believable. The author has used his background to develop a story that could have been taken directly from today’s news.
May 28, 2018
A Wonderful Thriller!
If you love action this book is for you! I loved the Imagination of this author. I loved the determination of the characters. Everything about this book is great! Check it out!
If you love action this book is for you! I loved the Imagination of this author. I loved the determination of the characters. Everything about this book is great! Check it out!
October 27, 2017
My original Not So Dead audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Sam Sunborn is a quirky nerdy techno guy who, along with members of his team, comes up with digitizing personalities of people. Why? Well, when we lose a loved one – isn’t it better to have some form of them present than nothing at all? And what could that hurt anyway? It would provide thousands of children, parents, friends and more with an everlasting connection to the deceased. Perfectly harmless and helpful … that is until terrorists become involved.
The Leopard is a terrorist; he’s always one step ahead of Sunborn and the team of US agents representing all the secret agencies. Sam along with digitalized Frank Einstein and Rich Little of Homeland Security go toe to toe with this dangerous and demented terrorist, fighting to protect the US and their allies. With help from an unlikely person, Sam and The Leopard come face to face with only one winning.
This was one of those solid thrillers with the characters all fully developed and detailed giving the listener the illusion that everything was transparent … however, the twists and turns in this book will leave you sitting there wondering what the heck just happened! Then you’re like OMG … no freaking way ….
Charles Levin crafted a unique story that draws in the listeners completely. Work and bedtime and other activities made stopping the book difficult for me … I wanted to keep listening. Levin is a storyteller that plays his audience like a violin – he knows just the words to keep you interested and keep the book moving forward at its breakneck pace of action. I see the potential for more and I hope he doesn’t disappoint.
The narrator, Daniel Greenberg, performed the book very well. Each of his character voices was unique and specific. The voice he had for The Leopard was perfect as was the rest but The Leopard’s stands out. He got the “better than thou” attitude and self-appointed doomsayer perfect!
This is a good book for anyone interested in thrillers, espionage, and sci-fi. There’s a little bit of everything in this book!
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Sam Sunborn is a quirky nerdy techno guy who, along with members of his team, comes up with digitizing personalities of people. Why? Well, when we lose a loved one – isn’t it better to have some form of them present than nothing at all? And what could that hurt anyway? It would provide thousands of children, parents, friends and more with an everlasting connection to the deceased. Perfectly harmless and helpful … that is until terrorists become involved.
The Leopard is a terrorist; he’s always one step ahead of Sunborn and the team of US agents representing all the secret agencies. Sam along with digitalized Frank Einstein and Rich Little of Homeland Security go toe to toe with this dangerous and demented terrorist, fighting to protect the US and their allies. With help from an unlikely person, Sam and The Leopard come face to face with only one winning.
This was one of those solid thrillers with the characters all fully developed and detailed giving the listener the illusion that everything was transparent … however, the twists and turns in this book will leave you sitting there wondering what the heck just happened! Then you’re like OMG … no freaking way ….
Charles Levin crafted a unique story that draws in the listeners completely. Work and bedtime and other activities made stopping the book difficult for me … I wanted to keep listening. Levin is a storyteller that plays his audience like a violin – he knows just the words to keep you interested and keep the book moving forward at its breakneck pace of action. I see the potential for more and I hope he doesn’t disappoint.
The narrator, Daniel Greenberg, performed the book very well. Each of his character voices was unique and specific. The voice he had for The Leopard was perfect as was the rest but The Leopard’s stands out. He got the “better than thou” attitude and self-appointed doomsayer perfect!
This is a good book for anyone interested in thrillers, espionage, and sci-fi. There’s a little bit of everything in this book!
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
June 30, 2018
The idea of uploading yourself to the internet to achieve immortality is both fascinating and scary. Not So Dead draws on both these elements to explore the incredible possibilities of such technology as well as the inevitable exploitation that follows. And yes, there’s a twist at the end but I won’t reveal that and I’m not even sure what I make of it myself.
With a frightening terrorist threat to avert and the developers of the technology caught up in the government’s reaction, Not So Dead takes you on a thrilling rollercoaster of problem, resolution, problem, fear, and hope.
The most unique element of the book lies in the research done by the author into what is already possible and where the current technology is heading. This makes the story so much more engaging (and scary) as you imagine a world where this really could happen. Personally, I’m fascinated by the idea of being able to exist in the Cloud and have access to everything connected to it. I loved how Not So Dead engaged my imagination in this respect even aside from a brilliant storyline.
My only criticism is that the first ten chapters are uninspiring. They read initially like a ‘he said, she said’ report with a significant action scene lacking the energy that would make it less of a police statement. But get to chapter eleven and the style seems to change, the pace becomes excellent, and I was tempted to finish in one sitting.
Definitely a recommended read and one I’ll return to for a second read (or a third, fourth…) Frightening in its discussion of real possibilities, thrilling in its exciting storyline, and engaging with excellent characters.
With a frightening terrorist threat to avert and the developers of the technology caught up in the government’s reaction, Not So Dead takes you on a thrilling rollercoaster of problem, resolution, problem, fear, and hope.
The most unique element of the book lies in the research done by the author into what is already possible and where the current technology is heading. This makes the story so much more engaging (and scary) as you imagine a world where this really could happen. Personally, I’m fascinated by the idea of being able to exist in the Cloud and have access to everything connected to it. I loved how Not So Dead engaged my imagination in this respect even aside from a brilliant storyline.
My only criticism is that the first ten chapters are uninspiring. They read initially like a ‘he said, she said’ report with a significant action scene lacking the energy that would make it less of a police statement. But get to chapter eleven and the style seems to change, the pace becomes excellent, and I was tempted to finish in one sitting.
Definitely a recommended read and one I’ll return to for a second read (or a third, fourth…) Frightening in its discussion of real possibilities, thrilling in its exciting storyline, and engaging with excellent characters.
September 11, 2018
kindle unlimited, but already owned it when realized hadn't read/reviewed it yet on amazon/goodreads, books get lost in the shuffle, interesting take on things, the back and forth and is it/isn't it, but no spoilers so just read to find out
What could go wrong when a team of brilliant computer scientists achieves immortality by digitizing their personalities? Everything - if the government wants the technology and you've crossed paths with a band of ruthless terrorists bent on causing unspeakable damage.
Follow Sam Sunborn as he teams up with a real Einstein to give birth to an invention that could change the lives of everyone on the planet forever. Sam wants to help people with his invention but lands up having to defend it and his family from the Leopard, a driven and demented terrorist, whose mission is to rein chaos and destruction on the Western World. Using the latest technology and a battle of wills and wits, Sunborn and the Leopard engage in an epic global clash. What disasters befall the innocent in the Leopard's wake? Can Michelle Hadar, a lowly grad student, and Rich Little, a talented Homeland Agent, possibly come to the rescue? Mysteries and surprises abound in this fast-paced thriller.
What could go wrong when a team of brilliant computer scientists achieves immortality by digitizing their personalities? Everything - if the government wants the technology and you've crossed paths with a band of ruthless terrorists bent on causing unspeakable damage.
Follow Sam Sunborn as he teams up with a real Einstein to give birth to an invention that could change the lives of everyone on the planet forever. Sam wants to help people with his invention but lands up having to defend it and his family from the Leopard, a driven and demented terrorist, whose mission is to rein chaos and destruction on the Western World. Using the latest technology and a battle of wills and wits, Sunborn and the Leopard engage in an epic global clash. What disasters befall the innocent in the Leopard's wake? Can Michelle Hadar, a lowly grad student, and Rich Little, a talented Homeland Agent, possibly come to the rescue? Mysteries and surprises abound in this fast-paced thriller.
July 12, 2019
I am still trying to wrap my head around the ending of the book as I did not see it coming and really through me for a mental loop, but overall; I felt this book was a great, edge of your seat thrill ride.
The book kept me turning pages as I followed the chaos that was ensuing with danger and terrorist plots around every turn. I didn't find a lot of "down time" in the action and chaos which I like. It kept me guessing and wondering what was going to happen next; what change of plans would occur to throw a kink in the plans. While I knew the characters - good and bad - I felt like I was working the entire case with Sam, Little, Al and their teams just like the characters were.
What Sam and his team were able to develop and work with was nothing short of amazing (although scary to think that could become real life) when it came to the technology side. The entire idea of AI and the human mind is nothing short of amazing (but again, scary!)
I enjoy thrill reads and would definitely rank Not So Dead up there among some of the great thrillers that I have read. I fully intend on reading book 2.
The book kept me turning pages as I followed the chaos that was ensuing with danger and terrorist plots around every turn. I didn't find a lot of "down time" in the action and chaos which I like. It kept me guessing and wondering what was going to happen next; what change of plans would occur to throw a kink in the plans. While I knew the characters - good and bad - I felt like I was working the entire case with Sam, Little, Al and their teams just like the characters were.
What Sam and his team were able to develop and work with was nothing short of amazing (although scary to think that could become real life) when it came to the technology side. The entire idea of AI and the human mind is nothing short of amazing (but again, scary!)
I enjoy thrill reads and would definitely rank Not So Dead up there among some of the great thrillers that I have read. I fully intend on reading book 2.
October 22, 2018
~Non-stop excitement
~First, I’ll state that I received this book as a gift from the author to read and review.
~Chapter 1, First Line: “I don’t know how it started – I remember dying.” I was intrigued from the very beginning.
~This was a well thought out story. The reader is taken on quite a ride…and just when you think it is just about over, the bad guy does something unpredictable and devastating. Our good guys seem to be out maneuvered and out classed at every turn…until they begin to think outside the box and get an interesting group of nerds and geeks involved.
~I don’t do spoilers in my reviews. I will say that a major part of my high praise for this book is because of the ending…I was surprised…’nuf said!
~There was a bit of mystery here, and a bit of Sci-Fi also, and some adventure, and a dash of “clock and dagger,” and a lot of loyalty and friendship and even some romance! This book offered a whole lot of story. I definitely recommend it to most any reader who enjoys a good action-packed, roller-coaster, intense plot.
~First, I’ll state that I received this book as a gift from the author to read and review.
~Chapter 1, First Line: “I don’t know how it started – I remember dying.” I was intrigued from the very beginning.
~This was a well thought out story. The reader is taken on quite a ride…and just when you think it is just about over, the bad guy does something unpredictable and devastating. Our good guys seem to be out maneuvered and out classed at every turn…until they begin to think outside the box and get an interesting group of nerds and geeks involved.
~I don’t do spoilers in my reviews. I will say that a major part of my high praise for this book is because of the ending…I was surprised…’nuf said!
~There was a bit of mystery here, and a bit of Sci-Fi also, and some adventure, and a dash of “clock and dagger,” and a lot of loyalty and friendship and even some romance! This book offered a whole lot of story. I definitely recommend it to most any reader who enjoys a good action-packed, roller-coaster, intense plot.
January 10, 2022
When Sam comes up with a great idea he tells his techy friend Bart about it. His friend tells him about a professor Einstein who may or may not be working on Government research andmay or may not be able to help. After having a coffee powwow with the professor and Sims two closest friends Larreta and of course Bart. After they get their computer program up and running. They find a glitch in while talking about fixing this glitch hear gunfire. This will be the first time Sam finds out he is being stalked by the leopard who wants The invention. I just want to say I am so glad the second book was already out when I listen to this first audiobook, because I would’ve been pulling my hair out waiting for the next one. It is so good I loved it and can’t wait to get started on book 2. If you love high tech terrorist situations, You will love this book. It isn’t even my favorite genre and I found this book and the narrator awesome! Please forgive any grammatical or punctuation errors as I am blind and dictate most of my review. But all opinions are definitely my own.
February 10, 2018
This is Charles Levin debut novel and I'm sure if he continues in this trend there be many more to enjoy.
I have both the e-book and audio version so for the first time have been trying switching back and forth between reading and listening. Worked great on both my tablet and phone. Rather nice when you need to do something besides reading.
On the audio version Daniel Greenberg is doing a great job in narrating the story.
You are convinced different people are talking and he really brings the various characters to life.
The story is a combination of reality and futuristic possibilities.
Placed in a real world of politics, terrorist, global events and been able to store oneself as a digitized version in the clouds allowing interaction with the living after death.
Opens up a lot of ethical questions but the story line is wonderfully put together.
The ending is a surprising development and leaves some opportunities for multiple books. I highly recommend this book.
I have both the e-book and audio version so for the first time have been trying switching back and forth between reading and listening. Worked great on both my tablet and phone. Rather nice when you need to do something besides reading.
On the audio version Daniel Greenberg is doing a great job in narrating the story.
You are convinced different people are talking and he really brings the various characters to life.
The story is a combination of reality and futuristic possibilities.
Placed in a real world of politics, terrorist, global events and been able to store oneself as a digitized version in the clouds allowing interaction with the living after death.
Opens up a lot of ethical questions but the story line is wonderfully put together.
The ending is a surprising development and leaves some opportunities for multiple books. I highly recommend this book.
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