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Speed of Sound Thriller #1
The Speed of Sound
In this propulsive thriller, one of the most ingenious young men in the world has also become the most dangerous…or has he?
Harmony House is more than a “special place for special people.” It’s a think tank where high-functioning autistic savants harness their unique abilities for the benefit of society. Resident Eddie Parks’s contribution is nothing less than extraordinary: an “echo box” that can re-create never-recorded sounds using acoustic archeology.
All Eddie wants is to hear his late mother’s voice. But what he’s created is inadvertently posing a threat to national security.
To Harmony House’s shadowy government backers and radical extremists, the echo box is the ultimate intelligence asset—an end to the very concept of secrecy. Now for Eddie and the compassionate Dr. Skylar Drummond, the true nature of the institution is becoming chillingly clear.
As ruthless competing enemies close in on Eddie and his miraculous machine, Skylar risks all to take him on the run. Because once that prize is won, Eddie Parks will no longer be considered a “special person” but a dangerous redundancy. An inconvenient echo that must be silenced.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2018
2443 people are currently reading
7287 people want to read
About the author
Eric Bernt
3 books146 followersEric Bernt was born in Marion, Ohio, and raised in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, and Madison, Wisconsin. He attended Northwestern University, where he learned that journalism was not for him—but storytelling was. Upon graduation, he moved to Hollywood, where he wrote seven feature films including Virtuosity (starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe) and Surviving the Game (starring Rutger Hauer, Gary Busey, and F. Murray Abraham). He has also written for television (Z Nation). Eric lives in Agoura Hills, California, with his wife and three children. Visit www.ericbernt.com to learn more about what Eric has been up to.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 622 reviews
July 18, 2018
I was provided a copy of this novel by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions presented are my own.
4.5 I don't know how to write this as an echo or I would stars
First and foremost, the editing and completion of this novel are top notch! When one reads so many ARCs there tends to be typical hurdles you have to overcome with regards to shoddy or incomplete editing and formatting - Speed of Sound did not suffer from this at all.
Past this, Bernt has created a very singularly unique story that was a real treat and pleasure to read and be a part of. My nephew has autism and it was so refreshing to see such a realistic portrayal of high functioning autism. Not only that but what a delight that he's a 'superhero' of sorts. I've already suggested this book to my sister and I'm sure she's going to absolutely love it. I found the way Bernt portrayed Eddie to be thought-provoking and insightful to say the absolute least.
This was an easy quick read that didn't fall flat because of it. The story is very well developed and for the most part enjoyable from start to finish. There were a few moments that all of the twists got a bit convoluted but it didn't take away from my overall feelings in the end. In an age of government conspiracy being very popular, I think this is a well-timed release for this book. The implications of the "echo box" are far-reaching and it left me asking myself a lot of "what ifs" throughout. I always enjoy when a book makes me think and want to discuss those implications with the people around me - and this is definitely one of those books!
The entire read was very much an 'edge of your seat thriller' but I've been juggling so many books I kind of just be-bopped through this one in-between other reads. However, that's not to say this wasn't a real page turner and I'd suggest it for anyone and everyone to read. The science behind the acoustic archeology and the echo box was well thought out and well developed. Bernt had a very unique vision in this and it was excellently executed!
4.5 I don't know how to write this as an echo or I would stars
First and foremost, the editing and completion of this novel are top notch! When one reads so many ARCs there tends to be typical hurdles you have to overcome with regards to shoddy or incomplete editing and formatting - Speed of Sound did not suffer from this at all.
Past this, Bernt has created a very singularly unique story that was a real treat and pleasure to read and be a part of. My nephew has autism and it was so refreshing to see such a realistic portrayal of high functioning autism. Not only that but what a delight that he's a 'superhero' of sorts. I've already suggested this book to my sister and I'm sure she's going to absolutely love it. I found the way Bernt portrayed Eddie to be thought-provoking and insightful to say the absolute least.
This was an easy quick read that didn't fall flat because of it. The story is very well developed and for the most part enjoyable from start to finish. There were a few moments that all of the twists got a bit convoluted but it didn't take away from my overall feelings in the end. In an age of government conspiracy being very popular, I think this is a well-timed release for this book. The implications of the "echo box" are far-reaching and it left me asking myself a lot of "what ifs" throughout. I always enjoy when a book makes me think and want to discuss those implications with the people around me - and this is definitely one of those books!
The entire read was very much an 'edge of your seat thriller' but I've been juggling so many books I kind of just be-bopped through this one in-between other reads. However, that's not to say this wasn't a real page turner and I'd suggest it for anyone and everyone to read. The science behind the acoustic archeology and the echo box was well thought out and well developed. Bernt had a very unique vision in this and it was excellently executed!
September 14, 2018
Well...that was one hell of a wild ride! There wasn't a moment when my attention strayed from this fascinating novel. Built on the premise of being able to capture and reproduce sounds from the past, The Speed of Sound runs at a clip that gives double meaning to the title.
Edward Parks lives in Harmony House, a rarified environment where individuals like Eddie are nurtured and observed in hopes of cashing in on their extraordinary creativity and perception. Eddie and his follow residents are autistic savants, incapable of caring for themselves, but capable of a level of concentration and deduction that put them in the genius category. Or so those running and supporting Harmony House hope.
With no shortage of quirks and phobias, Eddie is the real deal. And the head doctor at Harmony House knows it. But he is not the only one anticipating the completion of the echo box. In fact, the list of those involved at some level of the competing schemes to acquire this technology had my head spinning. The action, intrigue, espionage, and duplicity in this book never stops. It's a thrill ride and a labyrinth, flawlessly put together, with a thoroughly satisfying ending. I look forward to reading more by this exciting author!
Edward Parks lives in Harmony House, a rarified environment where individuals like Eddie are nurtured and observed in hopes of cashing in on their extraordinary creativity and perception. Eddie and his follow residents are autistic savants, incapable of caring for themselves, but capable of a level of concentration and deduction that put them in the genius category. Or so those running and supporting Harmony House hope.
With no shortage of quirks and phobias, Eddie is the real deal. And the head doctor at Harmony House knows it. But he is not the only one anticipating the completion of the echo box. In fact, the list of those involved at some level of the competing schemes to acquire this technology had my head spinning. The action, intrigue, espionage, and duplicity in this book never stops. It's a thrill ride and a labyrinth, flawlessly put together, with a thoroughly satisfying ending. I look forward to reading more by this exciting author!
May 8, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed THE SPEED OF SOUND for a number of reasons but foremost among them is the fact that it is competently written. What a relief to just be able to read a book without the typical bumps and pops of awkward sentence structures, wrong grammar, misspellings, strange paragraph breaks, unnatural dialogue exchanges, confused action scenes, and on and on and on in the litany of what we all have learned to put up with in this brave new world of quick publishing and lack of care. Mr. Bernt is a good writer with an intriguing premise and interesting characters caught up in a high stakes game that has the legitimate potential of changing the world. What more can you ask from this genre?
And yet, Mr. Bernt does give you more. In addition to the thought provoking ideas of acoustic archaeology, and the “what-ifs” of an echo box that could recapture and playback any conversation ever held in a room, one of his main characters, Eddie, is a delightfully portrayed, and very accurate, high functioning autistic young man. The scenes with Eddie talking to Dr. Skylar or other “normal” people are great fun and provide such a wonderful insight into the world of autism. I actually found myself reading excerpts out loud for my wife, who would never read a science fiction story, and she was so charmed that she kept pestering me during the week to tell her what was new with Eddie.
Still, nothing is perfect. I would criticize Mr. Bernt on a couple of items in an otherwise excellent yarn. I thought at a certain point that he lost himself on twisting the twists within the secret ops inside other secret ops backstory. It became a bit unwieldy from a plotting standpoint and, frankly, the ease with which high-level government agencies had their strings pulled betrayed a lack of actual knowledge of how real bureaucracies work. At a certain point, it became impossible to sustain my disbelief. He may have been better served by having a foreign national power (Russian or Chinese based) be the other opposing force.
Also, be aware that this is a Book One of a proposed two book series. This book does resolve all the main plot points but there is a disconcerting feeling at the end, as I find in all series books, when things abruptly stop in mid-action. (Of course, that doesn’t mean I won’t pick up his next book when it comes out in 2019, I’m just whining.)
Finally, I’m disappointed in his title, THE SPEED OF SOUND, and his cover art. They do little to draw readers to his story. In fact, if anything, the industrial-cartoon style art and font choice would push most readers away, in my opinion. I’m not sure that I have any suggestions to improve but what he currently has doesn’t work for me at all.
I still highly recommend this book. Eddie is great fun and provides perceptive insights into the many personalities along the autism spectrum. The premise is entertaining. The writing is excellent.
And yet, Mr. Bernt does give you more. In addition to the thought provoking ideas of acoustic archaeology, and the “what-ifs” of an echo box that could recapture and playback any conversation ever held in a room, one of his main characters, Eddie, is a delightfully portrayed, and very accurate, high functioning autistic young man. The scenes with Eddie talking to Dr. Skylar or other “normal” people are great fun and provide such a wonderful insight into the world of autism. I actually found myself reading excerpts out loud for my wife, who would never read a science fiction story, and she was so charmed that she kept pestering me during the week to tell her what was new with Eddie.
Still, nothing is perfect. I would criticize Mr. Bernt on a couple of items in an otherwise excellent yarn. I thought at a certain point that he lost himself on twisting the twists within the secret ops inside other secret ops backstory. It became a bit unwieldy from a plotting standpoint and, frankly, the ease with which high-level government agencies had their strings pulled betrayed a lack of actual knowledge of how real bureaucracies work. At a certain point, it became impossible to sustain my disbelief. He may have been better served by having a foreign national power (Russian or Chinese based) be the other opposing force.
Also, be aware that this is a Book One of a proposed two book series. This book does resolve all the main plot points but there is a disconcerting feeling at the end, as I find in all series books, when things abruptly stop in mid-action. (Of course, that doesn’t mean I won’t pick up his next book when it comes out in 2019, I’m just whining.)
Finally, I’m disappointed in his title, THE SPEED OF SOUND, and his cover art. They do little to draw readers to his story. In fact, if anything, the industrial-cartoon style art and font choice would push most readers away, in my opinion. I’m not sure that I have any suggestions to improve but what he currently has doesn’t work for me at all.
I still highly recommend this book. Eddie is great fun and provides perceptive insights into the many personalities along the autism spectrum. The premise is entertaining. The writing is excellent.
July 31, 2018
This book should be listed under Techno/thriller. Interesting book until the end, yes you have to read the next book. All Eddie Parks wanted to hear is mother sing. She I giving birth to him, she had a beautiful voice. Eddie lives and works government funded institution for high functioning autistic (savant) people. He developed Echo Box. Government is keeping very close eye on him, they don't want him to succeed. This invention will completely change the way we communicate, no privacy at all.
August 7, 2018
Eddie lives in Harmony House, a think tank residence for people with autism. Eddie's project is creating an "echo box." Eddie's main desire is to hear his late mother sing, and if he can complete the echo box, his dream will come true. Unfortunately, other, less scrupulous people would also like the echo box to work. The newest doctor at Harmony House is Skylar, and she immediately connects with Eddie. As the danger increases, Skylar helps Eddie.
Interesting and likable characters. Eddie has autism, and has a few special abilities that go along with that. He has very delicate hearing and he is a human lie detector. Both of these abilities come into play throughout the story. Skylar is a little more stereotypical character. She is a new doctor at Harmony House, and she also truly cares about the patients. Eddie has a hard time with people, but he quickly learns to trust Skylar.
The story is action-packed. As Eddie gets closer to finishing his project, it seems more people are interested in getting their hands on it. Skylar is important since she wants to keep Eddie safe, but she also wants to see him achieve his dream of hearing his mother sing.
Exciting and fast-paced. This is the first book in a series, and ends on a cliffhanger. Good for fans of techno thrillers.
I received a digital copy of this book via Amazon's First Reads.
Interesting and likable characters. Eddie has autism, and has a few special abilities that go along with that. He has very delicate hearing and he is a human lie detector. Both of these abilities come into play throughout the story. Skylar is a little more stereotypical character. She is a new doctor at Harmony House, and she also truly cares about the patients. Eddie has a hard time with people, but he quickly learns to trust Skylar.
The story is action-packed. As Eddie gets closer to finishing his project, it seems more people are interested in getting their hands on it. Skylar is important since she wants to keep Eddie safe, but she also wants to see him achieve his dream of hearing his mother sing.
Exciting and fast-paced. This is the first book in a series, and ends on a cliffhanger. Good for fans of techno thrillers.
I received a digital copy of this book via Amazon's First Reads.
May 17, 2018
Is this any way to end a storyline?
SPOILER ALERT...
This is an exciting and engaging story, until this happens:
''After they departed, Stephen waited a moment before removing a phone from his pocket. It was the same model Senator Davis now carried with him. Stephen pressed the speed-dial button for the only number he was ever to contact with it. “You said I should call if anything unusual happened.”''
Too many questions left unanswered...
That is a TERRIBLE way to end the book...especially if the purpose is to sell a sequel.
Because of this I had to drop my rating from a five star down to three.
SPOILER ALERT...
This is an exciting and engaging story, until this happens:
''After they departed, Stephen waited a moment before removing a phone from his pocket. It was the same model Senator Davis now carried with him. Stephen pressed the speed-dial button for the only number he was ever to contact with it. “You said I should call if anything unusual happened.”''
Too many questions left unanswered...
That is a TERRIBLE way to end the book...especially if the purpose is to sell a sequel.
Because of this I had to drop my rating from a five star down to three.
May 6, 2018
Intriguing Postulations !
An easy, enjoyable read! I really liked it, and recommend it for mid-teens and above! (Mostly clean, extremely minimal use of foul language and zero detailed sexual situations. There is an early scene where a scumbucket has engaged a prostitute for drugs and other activities; the scumbucket's plans are clear, but handled without descending into graphic details. Most importantly, the scene is abruptly terminated without any actual sexual scenes, while demonstrating the high cost of doing drugs and an illicit lifestyle. )
This is a science fiction action thriller with significant medical overtones -- mostly mental health -- crucial to the plot.
Fortunately, it doesn't get bogged down in either scientific details or medical jargon. We have an impaired but gifted hero, and an inspired medical doctor heroine with strong motivations of her own.
We also get a slew of bad guys in varying shades of black. But who the bad guys are isn't always clear. And some of the bad guys are successful in being truly evil -- more than a few dead bodies are strewn around the landscape before Book 1 closes on a modest cliffhanger.
The core of this story revolves around an advanced acoustic technology that enables users to ... well, I'll just leave that as a surprise. That technology would provide the possessor with incredible power to achieve either good or evil, or even both simultaneously.
No spoilers here, but I REALLY enjoyed this book!! I hope if you read this review, it will motivate you to read this short novel, as it is well worth your time.
I caution parents that the early scene with the prostitute, though not sexually explicit, is somewhat suggestive and thus probably a little much for kids below 14. Parents should at least review that scene prior to permitting any teens to read this book.
Jim
An easy, enjoyable read! I really liked it, and recommend it for mid-teens and above! (Mostly clean, extremely minimal use of foul language and zero detailed sexual situations. There is an early scene where a scumbucket has engaged a prostitute for drugs and other activities; the scumbucket's plans are clear, but handled without descending into graphic details. Most importantly, the scene is abruptly terminated without any actual sexual scenes, while demonstrating the high cost of doing drugs and an illicit lifestyle. )
This is a science fiction action thriller with significant medical overtones -- mostly mental health -- crucial to the plot.
Fortunately, it doesn't get bogged down in either scientific details or medical jargon. We have an impaired but gifted hero, and an inspired medical doctor heroine with strong motivations of her own.
We also get a slew of bad guys in varying shades of black. But who the bad guys are isn't always clear. And some of the bad guys are successful in being truly evil -- more than a few dead bodies are strewn around the landscape before Book 1 closes on a modest cliffhanger.
The core of this story revolves around an advanced acoustic technology that enables users to ... well, I'll just leave that as a surprise. That technology would provide the possessor with incredible power to achieve either good or evil, or even both simultaneously.
No spoilers here, but I REALLY enjoyed this book!! I hope if you read this review, it will motivate you to read this short novel, as it is well worth your time.
I caution parents that the early scene with the prostitute, though not sexually explicit, is somewhat suggestive and thus probably a little much for kids below 14. Parents should at least review that scene prior to permitting any teens to read this book.
Jim
June 29, 2018
After reading the synopsis of the novel, I was curious on how it will be.So, I picked it and read it. After reading the novel, well, I am intrigued by the science behind it. Acoustic architecture is amazing. This novel is about a bloke named Edward (in short Eddie) who has autism and how he has the passion to listen to his mother's voice using a device called "the echo box", which is blemished by the third party (which is of course SPOILERS!!) as they, you know, need it for whatever use they want(of course to protect the world but at the cost of killing innocent). The bloke is assisted by a beauty named Skylar.
Well, that is the gist of the story. As for the writing style, it was some what similar to David Baldacci novels. The story was branching perfectly and the events were running it's course perfectly until SPOILER gets arrested. Seriously, the writer should have thought of some other way. But this was nullified by the cliffhanger. The cliffhanger had me there!!
The main characters were interesting. I laughed at Eddie's response when asked a question. The relation between Skylar and Eddie was well portrayed.
Overall, I would give this a 4.2 acoustic stars. Even though the last part of the novel was not executed properly, the story was more compelling with a cliffhanger that leaves the reader for wanting more and explored the acoustics and autism in a witty way.
Well, that is the gist of the story. As for the writing style, it was some what similar to David Baldacci novels. The story was branching perfectly and the events were running it's course perfectly until SPOILER gets arrested. Seriously, the writer should have thought of some other way. But this was nullified by the cliffhanger. The cliffhanger had me there!!
The main characters were interesting. I laughed at Eddie's response when asked a question. The relation between Skylar and Eddie was well portrayed.
Overall, I would give this a 4.2 acoustic stars. Even though the last part of the novel was not executed properly, the story was more compelling with a cliffhanger that leaves the reader for wanting more and explored the acoustics and autism in a witty way.
May 16, 2018
A SIMPLE MAN'S REVIEW:
I was drawn in by the promise of cool technology, but the book is far less about the device (and how it works) and far more about those who want to obtain it. I really wanted some fun speculation and possibilities!
This turned out to be a very typical semi-political/action thriller with the usual group of characters. The only difference was that one of the main characters lives with Asperger's. So you can expect the usual quirks that a quick Wikipedia search will tell you these individuals exhibit. The only saving grace to this element was his relationship with his doctor.
If you like predictable "shoot 'em up" sort of thrillers (although with very little actual shooting) with a heavy dose of political conspiracies, then you might like this book. Otherwise, skip it.
P.S. What was with that random "cliffhanger" of something in his room at the end? Did I miss what it was? Message me if you know the answer because I'm not going to read the next book if that was the author's plan.
I was drawn in by the promise of cool technology, but the book is far less about the device (and how it works) and far more about those who want to obtain it. I really wanted some fun speculation and possibilities!
This turned out to be a very typical semi-political/action thriller with the usual group of characters. The only difference was that one of the main characters lives with Asperger's. So you can expect the usual quirks that a quick Wikipedia search will tell you these individuals exhibit. The only saving grace to this element was his relationship with his doctor.
If you like predictable "shoot 'em up" sort of thrillers (although with very little actual shooting) with a heavy dose of political conspiracies, then you might like this book. Otherwise, skip it.
P.S. What was with that random "cliffhanger" of something in his room at the end? Did I miss what it was? Message me if you know the answer because I'm not going to read the next book if that was the author's plan.
October 29, 2021
Asperger Sendromu ile polisiyeyi ve Amerikan Devleti’nin neler yapabileceğini gösteren oldukça başarılı bir kitaptı. Severek okudum. Kitabın devamı olan The Sound of Echos kitabı da umarım çabucak çevrilir. O kitabı da bir solukta okuyacağıma eminim.
Kitabın bu kadar akıcı olmasında çevirinin etkisi çok büyük. Bu başarılı çeviri için Deniz Öcal’ı tebrik ediyorum.
Kitaba puanım 4,5!
Kitabın bu kadar akıcı olmasında çevirinin etkisi çok büyük. Bu başarılı çeviri için Deniz Öcal’ı tebrik ediyorum.
Kitaba puanım 4,5!
May 23, 2021
Son derece hızlı tempolu, film gibi bir macera romanı. Yazar senaristmiş, roman da olayları farklı karakterlerin bakış açısından takip ettiğimiz, hızlı ve kısa kısa bölümlerden oluşuyor.
Dördüncü yıldızı kitabın kahramanı Eddie için verdim. Otizmli özel bir genç olan Eddie bir dahi ve yankı makinesi geliştirmeye çalışıyor. Baştan sona harika anlatmış yazar Eddie'yi, çok sevdim.
Yankı makinesi bir odada yıllar önce konuşulmuş ne var ne yok bütün sesleri toplayabilen fantastik bir cihaz. Eddie ve cihazın peşine katiller, dünyayı yöneten gizli bir örgüt, katilleri avlayan başka katiller, kahrolası federaller ve polisler düşüyor. Biz de nefes nefese bir kovalamaca okuyoruz.
Dördüncü yıldızı kitabın kahramanı Eddie için verdim. Otizmli özel bir genç olan Eddie bir dahi ve yankı makinesi geliştirmeye çalışıyor. Baştan sona harika anlatmış yazar Eddie'yi, çok sevdim.
Yankı makinesi bir odada yıllar önce konuşulmuş ne var ne yok bütün sesleri toplayabilen fantastik bir cihaz. Eddie ve cihazın peşine katiller, dünyayı yöneten gizli bir örgüt, katilleri avlayan başka katiller, kahrolası federaller ve polisler düşüyor. Biz de nefes nefese bir kovalamaca okuyoruz.
May 8, 2018
Ingenious plot premise powers this thriller about Eddie Parks, a 27 year old Asperger's prodigy researching "acoustic archaeology" to capture the sound waves of his long deceased mother. Eddie lives a regimented institutional life at Harmony House, a government supported home for autistic savants who exhibit the potential for innovative technological breakthroughs. Multiple entities target Eddie for 24/7 surveillance in the off chance his acoustic retrieval "Echo Box" invention becomes 100% operational. A major game changer of epic proportions!
July 24, 2023
3.5/5
I liked it. It's a suspenseful technothriller with an awesome premise. The story revolves around acoustic archeology and government conspiracies. It's quick to read, well-paced, and enjoyable.
I liked it. It's a suspenseful technothriller with an awesome premise. The story revolves around acoustic archeology and government conspiracies. It's quick to read, well-paced, and enjoyable.
May 19, 2018
A doctor and her patient, an electronics whiz living with Asperger's, go on the run from the homicidal maniacs running their hospital, and the even more homicidal maniacs running a privatized branch of the infamous Deep State. Skylar and Eddie were enjoyable, but there were just too many glaring mistakes that took me out of the story. To be fair, most were relatively minor, but they jumped out at me and I couldn't get past them. I think it's partially because the entire concept of acoustic archeology is so implausible that it used up all of my willing suspension of disbelief just to accept that as a concept.
The hospital has a four person security staff, and it takes four people to handle the security for any shift. I can accept that both officers in the Dog River police department worked the same shift, because nothing ever happens in Dog River, but not the entire security team at the super secret government hospital. They can't all work 24/7.
If you are going to tell me all about how Eddie can't understand body language or expressions, you have to explain how he is somehow able to be an infalliable lie detector, not just tell me that he is. Maybe I'm wrong, and being lie detectors is really a symptom at least some people with Asperger's really experience, despite the apparent incongruity, but even then the author needs to explain that.
The hospital has a four person security staff, and it takes four people to handle the security for any shift. I can accept that both officers in the Dog River police department worked the same shift, because nothing ever happens in Dog River, but not the entire security team at the super secret government hospital. They can't all work 24/7.
If you are going to tell me all about how Eddie can't understand body language or expressions, you have to explain how he is somehow able to be an infalliable lie detector, not just tell me that he is. Maybe I'm wrong, and being lie detectors is really a symptom at least some people with Asperger's really experience, despite the apparent incongruity, but even then the author needs to explain that.
June 1, 2018
May First Reads Amazon Prime GAb Skylar Drummond has a choice of excellent options after receiving her Harvard Medical School degree but she feels that Harmony House patients, diagnosed Asperger or savant on the autism spectrum, could - would with the proper environment - change the world. Skylar's brother Christopher would have if he had had proper help and guidance before his failure to cope with the down-side of his world lead him to commit suicide as a young adult.
Almost immediately she can see the same drive and scope of ideas in Eddie. although his problems are many, Harmony House in Woodbury, New Jersey has done everything they can to minimize his discomfort in the world, so that he may concentrate on his work dealing with sound and echoes. It is not until she had been there awhile that Skylar began to recognize the degree of control Dr. Fenton and his security staff exercised over the daily lives of the residents of Harmony House - and of the staff. As Eddie's research reaches a breakthrough in sound echoes of the past becoming accessible, that control will lead to death. Many deaths, actually. Because if you can hear the past repeating itself there is no deniability of your sins....
These characters are so realistic you may have to take a break occasionally to put things back into perspective. Eric Bernt writes an excellent tale, fast paced and plausible. He is an author I will follow. I hope this is the first of many novels.
Almost immediately she can see the same drive and scope of ideas in Eddie. although his problems are many, Harmony House in Woodbury, New Jersey has done everything they can to minimize his discomfort in the world, so that he may concentrate on his work dealing with sound and echoes. It is not until she had been there awhile that Skylar began to recognize the degree of control Dr. Fenton and his security staff exercised over the daily lives of the residents of Harmony House - and of the staff. As Eddie's research reaches a breakthrough in sound echoes of the past becoming accessible, that control will lead to death. Many deaths, actually. Because if you can hear the past repeating itself there is no deniability of your sins....
These characters are so realistic you may have to take a break occasionally to put things back into perspective. Eric Bernt writes an excellent tale, fast paced and plausible. He is an author I will follow. I hope this is the first of many novels.
May 19, 2018
Really liked it until the end, which is stupid
I don't get the end, unless it's a couple of possible things I am guessing at. Very unsatisfying, to read all that and then, ? I have read books before that do this, but they are written well enough that the questions and mystery at he end feel awesome,,and the possibilities interesting, rather than leaving you confused and wondering why you wasted time on the book.
I don't get the end, unless it's a couple of possible things I am guessing at. Very unsatisfying, to read all that and then, ? I have read books before that do this, but they are written well enough that the questions and mystery at he end feel awesome,,and the possibilities interesting, rather than leaving you confused and wondering why you wasted time on the book.
May 13, 2021
Jean Cristophe Grangé ile Dan Brown arasında bir yazar. Oldukça sürükleyici, heyecanlı bir polisiye. Akustik arkeolojisini konu alan otistik bir dâhinin ve onun doktorunun nefes kesen hikâyesi. İşiniz gücünüz varsa pek salık vermem çünkü elinizden bırakamıyorsunuz. Çeviri (Deniz Öcal) özenli ve editör elinden geçmiş. Tavsiye ederim.
May 11, 2018
A Chilling Possibility
When I started this book I had no expectations beyond liking thrillers and being intrigued by the synopsis of “The Speed of Sound”. A high-functioning autistic, Eddie Parks is an unlikely hero/protagonist but his unique views of the world and people around him pulled me in from the get-go. Dr. Skylar Drummond develops an unusually close bond with Eddie and he is able to relate to her on an unusually emotional level for someone with autism. The plot premise is complex and compelling and more than a little scary. The narrative unfolds with each chapter designating the exact time and physical location, which involves multiple characters and was at times difficult to keep track of where and when the previous chapter took place - who did what and where. I was well into it before all the puzzle pieces began to fit together but my attention never wavered. The writing is crisp and spare, with no fluff. Every word is necessary to tell the story and keep the reader engaged. Uncommonly good prose. Author Eric Bernt’s talent as a novelist is now as well established as his other writing credentials. (This was my First Reads choice for April.)
When I started this book I had no expectations beyond liking thrillers and being intrigued by the synopsis of “The Speed of Sound”. A high-functioning autistic, Eddie Parks is an unlikely hero/protagonist but his unique views of the world and people around him pulled me in from the get-go. Dr. Skylar Drummond develops an unusually close bond with Eddie and he is able to relate to her on an unusually emotional level for someone with autism. The plot premise is complex and compelling and more than a little scary. The narrative unfolds with each chapter designating the exact time and physical location, which involves multiple characters and was at times difficult to keep track of where and when the previous chapter took place - who did what and where. I was well into it before all the puzzle pieces began to fit together but my attention never wavered. The writing is crisp and spare, with no fluff. Every word is necessary to tell the story and keep the reader engaged. Uncommonly good prose. Author Eric Bernt’s talent as a novelist is now as well established as his other writing credentials. (This was my First Reads choice for April.)
December 30, 2024
Honeslty, I don't remember adding this to my TBR back in 2018, but I am so happy that I found the time to dive into this. I went in with zero expectations, and I'm kind of excited for the next book in this series. Definitely in the new year, for sure.
April 16, 2019
Extra star because I got teary a few times. Eddy is a high functioning autistic genius who has been working all his life to make an Echo Box. It accesses sound waves from the past in a certain location. The implications of such a device are staggering and puts both Eddy in is doctor Skylar in harm's way and on the run.
Mr. Bernt did an excellent job switching between scenes and keeping the suspense taut. This is book 1 and I'm ready for more. I have a soft spot for those on the autism spectrum and I adored Eddy and his doctor and the thrilling ride.
Mr. Bernt did an excellent job switching between scenes and keeping the suspense taut. This is book 1 and I'm ready for more. I have a soft spot for those on the autism spectrum and I adored Eddy and his doctor and the thrilling ride.
May 7, 2018
The Premise Was What Led Me to Read This Book
Always enjoy a clock-and-dagger suspenseful story. The fact that Eddie was special added to the story. The dialogue between Eddie and Skyler was realistic and brought humor into the tension of so many people making power moves to control the outcome of Eddie's desire to hear his mother sing.
Always enjoy a clock-and-dagger suspenseful story. The fact that Eddie was special added to the story. The dialogue between Eddie and Skyler was realistic and brought humor into the tension of so many people making power moves to control the outcome of Eddie's desire to hear his mother sing.
May 6, 2018
A Very Sound Read
A gripping tale built on an interesting premise. Wonderful character development and sensitive treatment of a difficult developmental abberation. Well written.
A gripping tale built on an interesting premise. Wonderful character development and sensitive treatment of a difficult developmental abberation. Well written.
January 12, 2019
I thought this was an intriguing and exciting read. Yes, the novel did it end with a cliffhanger but the conclusion was still satisfying. People have complained about this book because of its cliffhanger ending but they fail to appreciate that the author is simply setting up the premise for the next novel. My only complaint is that I will have to wait until June 4 for the next novel. Write faster, Eric. Write faster!
May 11, 2018
I chose The Speed of Sound as my May freebie for Amazon First Reads. It was a fast paced, page turning, hit men and explosions, cat & mouse thriller with memorable characters and heart. Eddie is a high functioning autistic genius whose only desire is to create an echo box in order to hear his mother sing. The echo box, if functioning, would allow anyone the ability to hear any conversation that ever took place in its current location....cue the power race to steal the device. oh and....It's book 1 of 2 (with the 2nd releasing in 2019), so I knew if was going to have a bit of a cliffhanger ending- but maaaaaaaan!! Now I have to wait a year!!
June 4, 2018
Started slow for me, but once I got into “The Speed if Sound” I had a hard time putting it down. Fascinating premise. What if there was no ‘he said, she said” but just “this is what was said.” The implications of this are really scary - especially if that power fell into the wrong hands. Can’t wait for the next book in the series, this was a total home run for me.
June 12, 2018
I Was shouting like HELL when I turned ACKNOWLEDGEMENT It freaked me out and I realized only after a matter of few minutes
although the only problem is I cannot totally convince myself into totally agree to the fact it worked but overall it's worth reading
"I always wondered I never had any favorite author who I look into, brag about the works"
...............................
"UNTIL NOW"
SPOILER ALERT
Stenson: "possession of the single most important technological advancement in intelligence................................. bla bla bla......"
FEW MINUTES LATER
Eddie: "HUMONGOUS MID FINGER on Stenson FACE"
This is the book I can Brag about to all... DAMN SUPER COOL
July 1, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Eric Burnt has written a really easy and enjoyable read in ‘The Speed of Sound’.
It was fast paced and exciting from the very beginning and also included great character development that was heartwarming and a joy to follow.
I’m not sure it’s one I’ll remember for very long, and I’m not sure why but I can just tell that nothing in it will really stay with me but it was a great book to while away a few hours in the garden.
Eric Burnt has written a really easy and enjoyable read in ‘The Speed of Sound’.
It was fast paced and exciting from the very beginning and also included great character development that was heartwarming and a joy to follow.
I’m not sure it’s one I’ll remember for very long, and I’m not sure why but I can just tell that nothing in it will really stay with me but it was a great book to while away a few hours in the garden.
dnf-series-ruiners
August 29, 2018Got 65% through. Ultimately my frustration and impatience got the better of me. I couldn’t stand the way everyone who met Eddie had no idea what autism was and how easily the theories of the box could be broken down. And while the book was pretty engaging, it continued to make me want to jump out of my skin. So finally, I am done. And it’s a load off my back to put this book down.
August 26, 2018
If I could give this less than a star I would. No idea how it has got so many strong reviews it is easily in the top ten worst books I have ever read. The plot is thin, ridiculous and unbelievable. The characters poorly constructed and the writing is awful.
October 19, 2018
That was really fun. And that's exactly what I want from a sci-fish thriller. The pace was consistently fast while still managing to develop its main characters and keep everything making sense. Sure, my suspension of disbelief was stretched to its limits with all the made-up science and psychology, but due to the interesting characters and action-packed story, they were easy enough to move past.
I enjoyed the writing for the most part. You don't often come across a book with over 100 chapters in just over 400 pages, but it really worked in this case. The dialogue was also well done, especially since one of the main characters had autism and the scenes where people interacted with him were quirky and unusual. I was quite surprised by how well structured the plot was considering how many characters were involved and how quickly things escalated. Events moved along with a natural progression though, with a few small twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. There were a few cases of characters making choices that didn't make much logical sense which annoyed me in the moment, but I got over them quite quickly.
As for the characters, there were many. The two main characters had a great chemistry together and while the autistic character probably stole the show, his doctor was just as likeable and worked perfectly with him. It definitely felt like it was them against the world, but I really liked that almost all the secondary characters got some screentime to develop their characters and motivations. My only minor gripes regarding the characters were how quickly the main characters connected with each other and the number of minor characters that were introduced towards the end.
The cliffhanger ending felt a tad unnecessary, but it didn't really bother me too much and didn't influence my enjoyment of the book as a whole. I would have liked the science aspects to be a bit more grounded in reality but at the same time, the ridiculous nature of the core doodad probably made it more memorable and gave the story a nice goal to head towards. I'd definitely recommend this to most people who like fast-paced thrillers with a bit of sci-fi to make things interesting. I'm not sure how much steam is left in the story for another book, but I'll probably give the next one a go anyway.
I enjoyed the writing for the most part. You don't often come across a book with over 100 chapters in just over 400 pages, but it really worked in this case. The dialogue was also well done, especially since one of the main characters had autism and the scenes where people interacted with him were quirky and unusual. I was quite surprised by how well structured the plot was considering how many characters were involved and how quickly things escalated. Events moved along with a natural progression though, with a few small twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. There were a few cases of characters making choices that didn't make much logical sense which annoyed me in the moment, but I got over them quite quickly.
As for the characters, there were many. The two main characters had a great chemistry together and while the autistic character probably stole the show, his doctor was just as likeable and worked perfectly with him. It definitely felt like it was them against the world, but I really liked that almost all the secondary characters got some screentime to develop their characters and motivations. My only minor gripes regarding the characters were how quickly the main characters connected with each other and the number of minor characters that were introduced towards the end.
The cliffhanger ending felt a tad unnecessary, but it didn't really bother me too much and didn't influence my enjoyment of the book as a whole. I would have liked the science aspects to be a bit more grounded in reality but at the same time, the ridiculous nature of the core doodad probably made it more memorable and gave the story a nice goal to head towards. I'd definitely recommend this to most people who like fast-paced thrillers with a bit of sci-fi to make things interesting. I'm not sure how much steam is left in the story for another book, but I'll probably give the next one a go anyway.
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