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Access Point
"A psychological thriller with compelling explorations of memory, obsession, and identity. Readers will find it an intriguing and entertaining read." - BlueInk Review
When American art student Mia Fraser is brutally murdered steps away from her London house she shares with computer genius Ula Mishkin, it leaves the socially inept scientist heartbroken. When it becomes clear that Detective Sarah Boyd is making no progress in solving the crime using traditional methods, Ula creates a software program that allows her to reach into her dead housemates memory in order to reveal the identity of the killer. Entering the dead girls life through the echo of her memory, Ula learns that sometimes the past is best left undisturbed.
When American art student Mia Fraser is brutally murdered steps away from her London house she shares with computer genius Ula Mishkin, it leaves the socially inept scientist heartbroken. When it becomes clear that Detective Sarah Boyd is making no progress in solving the crime using traditional methods, Ula creates a software program that allows her to reach into her dead housemates memory in order to reveal the identity of the killer. Entering the dead girls life through the echo of her memory, Ula learns that sometimes the past is best left undisturbed.
- GenresPsychological Thriller
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2020
2 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Tom Gabbay
5 books60 followersAuthor of the Jack Teller series of historical suspense novels, The Berlin Conspiracy (2006), The Lisbon Crossing (2007) and The Tehran Conviction (2009). Tom Gabbay began his career in New York, producing animated films for the well known children's program Sesame Street, and was Director of Comedy Programs at NBC television from 1985-1990. He also served as Creative Director of NBC Europe in London. In addition to his novels, he has written several screenplays and contributed political cartoons to the Philadelphia Daily News. His most recent novel is the psychological thriller "Access Point."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 30, 2020
I thought this was an engaging and gripping read with a fast paced plot. The first half or so of the book really worked for me and I was interested in the characters of Mia, Ula, and Detective Inspector Sarah Boyd. However the second half felt really rushed and a lot was missing for me. I wanted to know more about the characters, and that fell short by the end. Also, I thought the relationship between Sarah and her father was compelling and could have been expanded upon greatly. I liked this one but was left wanting more.
I received a free copy of the ebook from BookSirens and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a free copy of the ebook from BookSirens and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2020
I enjoyed this story and the twist was very appreciated. I'd like it more if there were subtle hints about the killer. It kind of felt like that part of the story came out of nowhere. I was under the impression the author himself didn't know where the story is headed up to that point. It's a complex story and it had a nice conclusion.
I received an advance review copy for free via Book Sirens.
I received an advance review copy for free via Book Sirens.
April 3, 2020
A Review of Access Point, by T. R. Gabbay
By Frank Viviano
Access Point, the latest work of novelist T. R. Gabbay, is a game changer in many senses. It marks a significant departure in theme and setting for Gabbay, author of a critically acclaimed cycle of spy thrillers that follow American agent Jack Teller through a series of nightmarish crises: the espionage crucible of Lisbon during World War Two; the Cold War backdrop to the Kennedy assassination in Berlin and Florida; the unending tensions set in motion by the Iranian revolution and the fall of the Shah in 1978.
Nightmare is also the operative metaphor of Access Point. But its plunge into the dark shadows of contemporary life is arguably far more unsettling. The subject, put simply, is the fatal knifing in England of a young American art student, Mia Fraser, and a determined detective’s search for her killer. But there is nothing simple about the murder, the murderer or the investigation. If the book draws on classic crime motifs that reach back a century -- the midnight slashing of an attractive woman in London, the erratic efforts of Scotland Yard to solve the crime -- its subtext is the unleashing of a thoroughly modern scientific revolution.
In a display of writerly choreography that shifts adroitly between the personal anxieties of Mia’s landlady Ula Mishkin, a distinguished neurological researcher with a tragic past, and Mia’s own private thoughts, Gabbay trains his prose on the murky terrain where high technology encounters the complexities of the human mind. This is a novel about memory in both realms: Mia’s and Ula’s on the one hand, and on the other hand a computer program of Ula’s devising that invades the brain’s data bank, decodes the information stored there and copies it.
In short, the program is capable of “mating” with the operating system of the brain -- a.k.a. the mind -- taking possession of its wealth of data. The effect is to lead both the reader and the investigating police officer, Detective Inspector Sarah Boyd, into a dizzying hall of mirrors where nothing at all is clear, much less the plain truth about what transpired that night in the shadows of a London street. Eventually, the truth does emerge -- the motives and identity of the murderer are unearthed -- in a shattering collision between reality and appearances that only seems inevitable after the fact.
Access Point is a bravado performance by the author, an accomplished screenwriter as well as a novelist, known for his air-tight plots. Gabbay makes the technological feats behind the mating of Mia’s mind and a computer program entirely believable and compelling. Justifiably so: As recently as a decade ago, this book’s storyline and narrative mechanisms would have consigned it to the arcane universe of science fiction. But not today. Innovations related to the development of artificial intelligence, which relies on many of the same mathematical premises that enable Ula Mishkin’s unsettling computer program, are no longer a matter of fiction or a distant imagined future.
They’re in place and evolving all around us today, untested in their formidable powers and heedless of potential consequences.
The reviewer is a veteran correspondent for National Geographic Magazine and the author of seven books.
By Frank Viviano
Access Point, the latest work of novelist T. R. Gabbay, is a game changer in many senses. It marks a significant departure in theme and setting for Gabbay, author of a critically acclaimed cycle of spy thrillers that follow American agent Jack Teller through a series of nightmarish crises: the espionage crucible of Lisbon during World War Two; the Cold War backdrop to the Kennedy assassination in Berlin and Florida; the unending tensions set in motion by the Iranian revolution and the fall of the Shah in 1978.
Nightmare is also the operative metaphor of Access Point. But its plunge into the dark shadows of contemporary life is arguably far more unsettling. The subject, put simply, is the fatal knifing in England of a young American art student, Mia Fraser, and a determined detective’s search for her killer. But there is nothing simple about the murder, the murderer or the investigation. If the book draws on classic crime motifs that reach back a century -- the midnight slashing of an attractive woman in London, the erratic efforts of Scotland Yard to solve the crime -- its subtext is the unleashing of a thoroughly modern scientific revolution.
In a display of writerly choreography that shifts adroitly between the personal anxieties of Mia’s landlady Ula Mishkin, a distinguished neurological researcher with a tragic past, and Mia’s own private thoughts, Gabbay trains his prose on the murky terrain where high technology encounters the complexities of the human mind. This is a novel about memory in both realms: Mia’s and Ula’s on the one hand, and on the other hand a computer program of Ula’s devising that invades the brain’s data bank, decodes the information stored there and copies it.
In short, the program is capable of “mating” with the operating system of the brain -- a.k.a. the mind -- taking possession of its wealth of data. The effect is to lead both the reader and the investigating police officer, Detective Inspector Sarah Boyd, into a dizzying hall of mirrors where nothing at all is clear, much less the plain truth about what transpired that night in the shadows of a London street. Eventually, the truth does emerge -- the motives and identity of the murderer are unearthed -- in a shattering collision between reality and appearances that only seems inevitable after the fact.
Access Point is a bravado performance by the author, an accomplished screenwriter as well as a novelist, known for his air-tight plots. Gabbay makes the technological feats behind the mating of Mia’s mind and a computer program entirely believable and compelling. Justifiably so: As recently as a decade ago, this book’s storyline and narrative mechanisms would have consigned it to the arcane universe of science fiction. But not today. Innovations related to the development of artificial intelligence, which relies on many of the same mathematical premises that enable Ula Mishkin’s unsettling computer program, are no longer a matter of fiction or a distant imagined future.
They’re in place and evolving all around us today, untested in their formidable powers and heedless of potential consequences.
The reviewer is a veteran correspondent for National Geographic Magazine and the author of seven books.
June 22, 2020
When you first begin, you feel convoluted, and disjointed and then...you are grabbed and taken on a thriller roller coaster ride until the surprise ending! Ula Miskin a brilliant neuroscientist is working on a project that could change people's lives. People who have anmesia or waking from comas or perhaps even helping a blind man see. Working on her prototype in the lab using human trials, this could be a great thing. But, as she leaving on her bike to go home she is hit hard by a bus and is in a coma for a few years. When she comes out of it she secludes herself in her childhood home using her trust fund to continue working on her project. When the money starts running out, she puts in grant applications, but her reclusiveness keeps her from personally going to explain and defend her reasons for the grant so she doesn't get them. But all of a sudden, a German well-renowned neurocientist, Erik, shows up at her door and says he will bankroll the project if he is a partner and works with her but she has to get a roommate to take care of her personal expenses. Enter Mia Fraser, a young, naive, innocent American art student with an extremely sunny disposition. When Mia makes a breakthrough with Ula and shares a homemade dinner and two bottles of wine, Ula opens up a little and shows Mia the project with a sampling of how it works, but swears her to secrecy. In her mind she seems to be growing closer and closer to Mia. Mia's best friend, Kat is very leary of this relationship and warns Mia about it. When Mia and Kat decide to go to a party, Mia's ex-boyfriend tries to forcibly get her outside with him when the male model from her class steps in and gets rid of him and offers her a ride home. When he attacks her in his car, Ula sees what is going on and goes after him with her cane so Mia gets pushed out of the car. Battered and Bruised she decides to take a bath and let it go. She knows her parents would bring her home. She crawls into bed and dreams her mother is singing to her and touches her cheek. She wakes with a start! Was it a dream? Who was in her room? Was it Ula? When she call Ula to her room, Ula locks the door and says she has to talk to Mia. Scared, Mia hits Ula with a lamp and calls her friend Kat and runs out of the house to meet her at a bar on the other side of the park. Kat is adamant that Mia come stay with her and her roommates but she has to clear it with her roommates so one more day with Ula. But as she was going back to the house, she was brutally murdered! When after months and the police has not found anything, Ula decided she could use her neuroscience project to get into the murdered Mia's brain to see if she could figure out who murdered her. With Erik's help, they go to the morgue and put electrodes in the dead girl's head to download what was in her brain. Will that really work? Mia's absolute obsession is worrying Erik! What is happening? What an ending! You must read this one yourself, but be prepared to read it through to the end because once this book grabs you, it never lets go! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 20, 2020
When I received a request to read an ARC for this, I took it as the story sounded like one I would like. In my opinion the story was not well written and was very confusing at times. I very rarely don't finish a book and as of this review I have not been able to & not sure if I will.
I gave it 3 stars as the story line has real potential, but the way it was written was not for me.
I gave it 3 stars as the story line has real potential, but the way it was written was not for me.
October 9, 2021
This is one gripping read, to say the least. When Tom Gabbay contacted me to read his new book Access Point, I was intrigued right away by the description. Crime thrillers are right up my alley and learning that technology plays a role in figuring out a murder interested me further. So many readers will relate to Mia, an American art student who currently lives abroad in London looking for a fresh start after a bad relationship. As someone who left her own hometown to do the same, that is a difficult decision to make. Once I learned Mia found a roommate like Ula, it tricked me into thinking she was safe. Then Mia gets murdered! I had to believe it wasn’t who she just met, then Gabbay pulls you in even more by showing how dedicated Ula is to figure out who the murderer is.
Ula is a great character. I loved how real she was rather than your stereotypical detective-like character. Along with Ula being a savvy and skilled investigator, Gabbay includes her personal life into the story. Ula’s dreadful bike accident that left her in a coma for several months shows why she is so sympathetic to Mia’s tragic incident. As someone who once found herself looking for roommates and ended up living with a friend of a friend of a friend, it can be very unsettling letting someone you hardly know into your life, let alone your own residence. It is strange how quickly you find yourself connecting to your peculiar new roommate. That is another element of Ula that I liked. The true-to-life relationships are terrific!
One thing that I appreciated about Access Point is how formulated structural it is. I find that writing a crime thriller comes with its own set of challenges. If an author gets too excited about getting to the end, the story falls apart and I get lost. Although there were some points where I needed to backpedal, the majority of the book’s twists and turns were clear and kept me on the edge of my seat. It is clear that Gabbay took his time to outline the story, something that I feel is a must or else you do get a plot that falls apart. The technology information confused me, but then again, I’m not someone who works in tech. Despite my lack of technical knowledge, it made sense in the end. If that makes any sense. So, for those of you who are like me, I can say you will enjoy this part of the story.
I downloaded the audiobook version and recommend enjoying Gabbay’s book in that form. Hannah Chinn does a fantastic job bringing life into Access Point. It is a quick listen at 5 hours and 33 minutes. Its compelling storyline and fast-paced style had me finishing it while cleaning the house.
Wildly imaginative! Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Simply a GREAT read!
Ula is a great character. I loved how real she was rather than your stereotypical detective-like character. Along with Ula being a savvy and skilled investigator, Gabbay includes her personal life into the story. Ula’s dreadful bike accident that left her in a coma for several months shows why she is so sympathetic to Mia’s tragic incident. As someone who once found herself looking for roommates and ended up living with a friend of a friend of a friend, it can be very unsettling letting someone you hardly know into your life, let alone your own residence. It is strange how quickly you find yourself connecting to your peculiar new roommate. That is another element of Ula that I liked. The true-to-life relationships are terrific!
One thing that I appreciated about Access Point is how formulated structural it is. I find that writing a crime thriller comes with its own set of challenges. If an author gets too excited about getting to the end, the story falls apart and I get lost. Although there were some points where I needed to backpedal, the majority of the book’s twists and turns were clear and kept me on the edge of my seat. It is clear that Gabbay took his time to outline the story, something that I feel is a must or else you do get a plot that falls apart. The technology information confused me, but then again, I’m not someone who works in tech. Despite my lack of technical knowledge, it made sense in the end. If that makes any sense. So, for those of you who are like me, I can say you will enjoy this part of the story.
I downloaded the audiobook version and recommend enjoying Gabbay’s book in that form. Hannah Chinn does a fantastic job bringing life into Access Point. It is a quick listen at 5 hours and 33 minutes. Its compelling storyline and fast-paced style had me finishing it while cleaning the house.
Wildly imaginative! Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Simply a GREAT read!
June 4, 2020
Gripping, suspenseful and emotionally stunning read!!
Ula Mishkin is a very smart scientist who is
awkward in social situations. After she is in an
accident while riding her bike home from her lab,
Ula works from home. Her working cohort
at home is Erik Berg who calls what he and Ula
are experimenting on “Bio-technical neurology”
which deals with human memory.
Erik encourages Ula to get a roommate and
places an ad in the paper for her. Ula is very
shy about having a roommate at first.
Mia Fraser is a student at the Fine Arts college
at Central Saint Martin. She is an American who
has been living in London for a year. Mia has just
broken off a relationship so she is looking to
start lanew. She and her current roommates have
received a notice that they need to find a new
place of residence. Mia answers the ad. She
decides to take the room in Ula house.
Mia begins to have strange feelings about the
house but befriends Ula.
Then Mia is murdered!! Ula decides to look into
Mia memory bank to find the killer. This opens a
can of worms for a Ula. A scary time evolves!!!
Detective Inspector Sarah Boyd has Mia’s murder
case. She is finding it difficult to discover leads.
Then a call in the early morning from Ula
presents an eerie, suspenseful, intriguing and
twist with a shocking turn that will give the
reader heart palpitations!!
I volunteered to read Access Point. Thanks to the
Mystery Review Crew for the opportunity.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.
Ula Mishkin is a very smart scientist who is
awkward in social situations. After she is in an
accident while riding her bike home from her lab,
Ula works from home. Her working cohort
at home is Erik Berg who calls what he and Ula
are experimenting on “Bio-technical neurology”
which deals with human memory.
Erik encourages Ula to get a roommate and
places an ad in the paper for her. Ula is very
shy about having a roommate at first.
Mia Fraser is a student at the Fine Arts college
at Central Saint Martin. She is an American who
has been living in London for a year. Mia has just
broken off a relationship so she is looking to
start lanew. She and her current roommates have
received a notice that they need to find a new
place of residence. Mia answers the ad. She
decides to take the room in Ula house.
Mia begins to have strange feelings about the
house but befriends Ula.
Then Mia is murdered!! Ula decides to look into
Mia memory bank to find the killer. This opens a
can of worms for a Ula. A scary time evolves!!!
Detective Inspector Sarah Boyd has Mia’s murder
case. She is finding it difficult to discover leads.
Then a call in the early morning from Ula
presents an eerie, suspenseful, intriguing and
twist with a shocking turn that will give the
reader heart palpitations!!
I volunteered to read Access Point. Thanks to the
Mystery Review Crew for the opportunity.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.
June 18, 2020
Ula Mishkin’s life undergoes a dramatic change not only due to a serious bicycle accident that left her in a coma for several months but also due to the vicious murder of Mia Fraser, an American art student Ula had grown quite fond of, who was a boarder in her London home. The detective assigned to the case is stumped as to who the culprit might be, so Ula takes it upon herself to find out who killed Mia. Ula partners with a scientist who downloads Mia’s memory onto a hard drive and utilizing Ula’s software along with equipment in her attic, Ula is able to personally experience Mia's thoughts and feelings and events in her life. As Ula becomes more and more immersed in Mia’s recollections, she decides to make a decision that could have major repercussions on her future.
Access Point is a suspenseful and fascinating psychological thriller that shows the ramifications, either positive or negative, on an individual who gains access to a deceased person’s memories. The tension builds throughout the story and keeps readers intrigued and invested in the final outcome. Tom Gabbay skillfully switches between Ula’s real-life experiences and the time she spends in Mia’s memories. The added elements of mystery, surprising twists and turns, trepidation, and deceit make for a compelling read. Gabbay does a first-rate job of hiding clues in plain sight and surprising readers with a heart-stopping climax. This is the first book I have read that was written by Tom Gabbay, and I enjoyed it so much I plan to read other books he has authored.
Access Point is a suspenseful and fascinating psychological thriller that shows the ramifications, either positive or negative, on an individual who gains access to a deceased person’s memories. The tension builds throughout the story and keeps readers intrigued and invested in the final outcome. Tom Gabbay skillfully switches between Ula’s real-life experiences and the time she spends in Mia’s memories. The added elements of mystery, surprising twists and turns, trepidation, and deceit make for a compelling read. Gabbay does a first-rate job of hiding clues in plain sight and surprising readers with a heart-stopping climax. This is the first book I have read that was written by Tom Gabbay, and I enjoyed it so much I plan to read other books he has authored.
June 19, 2020
Access Point was truly a page turner and I would have read it in one sitting if real life had not interfered.
Ula Muskin is a brilliant scientist who spent a year in a coma after being hit while riding her bike. When she finally wakes up she has lost her memories. She works with a colleague, Erik, to create a computer software program that will help access her memories.
Ula is very socially awkward and needs some more income. Erik suggests she get a boarder/roommate. Mia, the new roommate, is an attractive young woman. Unfortunately, one night she is brutally attacked and killed. Ula feels she can find out who the killer was by trying to access Mia’s memories.
Author Tom Gabbay has crafted a compelling story that is part psychological thriller and part science fiction. The novel is full of twists and turns and the reader literally gets into the minds of several characters.
I really appreciated the side story of the detective who had to deal with her beloved father who was slowly slipping into worsening dementia. It is a sadness shared by so many.
Tom Gabbay was a new to me author. Access Point is a departure from his usual genre. Psychological thrillers are a very popular genre right now and this author has written one that will keep you guessing.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ula Muskin is a brilliant scientist who spent a year in a coma after being hit while riding her bike. When she finally wakes up she has lost her memories. She works with a colleague, Erik, to create a computer software program that will help access her memories.
Ula is very socially awkward and needs some more income. Erik suggests she get a boarder/roommate. Mia, the new roommate, is an attractive young woman. Unfortunately, one night she is brutally attacked and killed. Ula feels she can find out who the killer was by trying to access Mia’s memories.
Author Tom Gabbay has crafted a compelling story that is part psychological thriller and part science fiction. The novel is full of twists and turns and the reader literally gets into the minds of several characters.
I really appreciated the side story of the detective who had to deal with her beloved father who was slowly slipping into worsening dementia. It is a sadness shared by so many.
Tom Gabbay was a new to me author. Access Point is a departure from his usual genre. Psychological thrillers are a very popular genre right now and this author has written one that will keep you guessing.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2020
When I first heard the premise for this book, I was intrigued. After a murder the police seem too slow to solve, a friend of the victim develops the ability to go into the murdered girl’s memories to see what she saw so the perpetrator of the crime can be uncovered. Does that affect the fate of what happens? Can she actually change what happened? That remains to be seen throughout the book.
This is one of those books I feel like I need to read again now that I have a firm grasp on the back and forth between memories and current time. I did find myself confused for a bit, having to go back and reread certain pages to make sure I was in the right timeframe. One scene written word for word twice in the book caused me to think I had lost my place! I still think the premise is interesting. It wasn’t too “sci-fi” for me to understand the concept, and towards the end, I was engrossed and flipping pages to see how the twist unfolded. I didn’t see the ending coming, which to me always spells a good time.
This is one of those books I feel like I need to read again now that I have a firm grasp on the back and forth between memories and current time. I did find myself confused for a bit, having to go back and reread certain pages to make sure I was in the right timeframe. One scene written word for word twice in the book caused me to think I had lost my place! I still think the premise is interesting. It wasn’t too “sci-fi” for me to understand the concept, and towards the end, I was engrossed and flipping pages to see how the twist unfolded. I didn’t see the ending coming, which to me always spells a good time.
June 4, 2020
A quick read both because it's quite short and because it proved an absolute pageturner, this clever psychological thriller comes with plenty of twists to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Following brilliant but socially awkward scientist Ula as she attempts to solve the brutal murder of her young housemate, an American art student she was just beginning to forge a friendship with, by accessing the girl's memories through a groundbreaking software she has created, it's gripping, fastpaced, and very well written. While I did wish there'd been something a little more original than a somewhat overused trope in place of the final twist, it was well enough executed that that didn't spoil my enjoyment of this engrossing tale.
***I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.***
***I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.***
December 31, 2020
A psychological thriller that will leave your head spinning, heart palpitating, and lungs gasping! Your mind might never feel at ease again.
I've never felt so twisted! In all honesty, I haven't read such an amazing psychological thriller since Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn; and, despite my having given Gone Girl a 5-star review I actually hated it. My visceral disdain precisely why I praised it.
Where I hated the characters in Gone Girl I came to feel for, appreciate, like, and enjoy (for the most part) the characters in Access Point. I have not seen the movie version of Gone Girl and haven't felt compelled to; but, I would see a movie version of Access Point in a heartbeat!
You have an inkling something is amiss fairly early on within this book's pages; but, much like the main protagonist, Mia, you can't quite put your finger on your disquiet. Just as you begin having an inkling of what might be going on; let me be the first to tell you: "You can't be more wrong!"
The story-line, as a whole, drew me in, held me close, and wouldn't let me go. It was spine-tingling, goose-bump raising, and had me looking over my shoulder. One must always be aware: Be aware of self, one's surroundings, others you come into contact with; check in with your gut instincts, trust your intuition, it's better to be thought of as paranoid than to end up dead! Always be willing to back-pedal, change your direction, and flee when necessary. If the hairs on your arms and the nape of your neck stand up; well, it's high time you find a way out!
Moments of great importance are strategically well hidden in plain sight; and, don't resurface until they must. Everything matters. Pay close attention; and, even then, you'll most likely be deceived.
This book does indeed have some explicit content, some slight homosexual overtures; however, the homosexuality spotlighted is done so in a tasteful manner in which one completely understands how the feelings from one main protagonist to another come about and the whys behind it. If nothing else, in regards to the above aforementioned (mainly one-sided) relationship, you walk away with a sense of empathy and sympathy.
There are some minor editing errors; however, with a story-line that's as good as this one, they can be easily overlooked. This book is solid, strong, and tight. The conversations throughout are believable, the characters well developed, and there are no loose ends. Absolutely, a must-read!
*I received an advance review copy, via Reedsy Discovery, in exchange for my honest review.
I've never felt so twisted! In all honesty, I haven't read such an amazing psychological thriller since Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn; and, despite my having given Gone Girl a 5-star review I actually hated it. My visceral disdain precisely why I praised it.
Where I hated the characters in Gone Girl I came to feel for, appreciate, like, and enjoy (for the most part) the characters in Access Point. I have not seen the movie version of Gone Girl and haven't felt compelled to; but, I would see a movie version of Access Point in a heartbeat!
You have an inkling something is amiss fairly early on within this book's pages; but, much like the main protagonist, Mia, you can't quite put your finger on your disquiet. Just as you begin having an inkling of what might be going on; let me be the first to tell you: "You can't be more wrong!"
The story-line, as a whole, drew me in, held me close, and wouldn't let me go. It was spine-tingling, goose-bump raising, and had me looking over my shoulder. One must always be aware: Be aware of self, one's surroundings, others you come into contact with; check in with your gut instincts, trust your intuition, it's better to be thought of as paranoid than to end up dead! Always be willing to back-pedal, change your direction, and flee when necessary. If the hairs on your arms and the nape of your neck stand up; well, it's high time you find a way out!
Moments of great importance are strategically well hidden in plain sight; and, don't resurface until they must. Everything matters. Pay close attention; and, even then, you'll most likely be deceived.
This book does indeed have some explicit content, some slight homosexual overtures; however, the homosexuality spotlighted is done so in a tasteful manner in which one completely understands how the feelings from one main protagonist to another come about and the whys behind it. If nothing else, in regards to the above aforementioned (mainly one-sided) relationship, you walk away with a sense of empathy and sympathy.
There are some minor editing errors; however, with a story-line that's as good as this one, they can be easily overlooked. This book is solid, strong, and tight. The conversations throughout are believable, the characters well developed, and there are no loose ends. Absolutely, a must-read!
*I received an advance review copy, via Reedsy Discovery, in exchange for my honest review.
June 18, 2020
This is my first encounter with this author and his writing style was so compelling that I became so absorbed, I couldn't read fast enough to find out what was around the next bend. Beleive that you don't wanna miss this one!
October 24, 2020
Wow what a page turner. A Roller coaster ride of a who dunnit with twists and turns to keep you reading to the last word. I thoroughly enjoyed this short story and would highly recommend it
May 4, 2020
Excellent. A murder mystery with a twist. This story will have you on an emotional roller coaster, trying to figure out who the guilty party is. I was very surprised. I would highly recommend it. I received this book for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
July 1, 2020
This book was ... interesting. And by that I mean both "I was interested" and "It was weird."
At first, the sweet character of Mia, the oddities of Ula, and the mystery surrounding Mia's murder piqued my interest. The tension, the violence, and the possibility of an unreliable narrator kept me reading.
This book is touted as a psychological thriller, and while I won't say it was poorly done, I wouldn't say it was expertly done either. There are a good number of surprises. But there are some parts that get a little disturbing and confusing. And the ending, while exciting, was abrupt and a bit too clean.
Throughout the story, I wasn't quite sure to what degree I should wield my suspension of disbelief; sometimes it seemed completely set in the real world, and other times I thought we must be in some futuristic science fiction world. There are too many things left unexplained, and ultimately I was disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
At first, the sweet character of Mia, the oddities of Ula, and the mystery surrounding Mia's murder piqued my interest. The tension, the violence, and the possibility of an unreliable narrator kept me reading.
This book is touted as a psychological thriller, and while I won't say it was poorly done, I wouldn't say it was expertly done either. There are a good number of surprises. But there are some parts that get a little disturbing and confusing. And the ending, while exciting, was abrupt and a bit too clean.
Throughout the story, I wasn't quite sure to what degree I should wield my suspension of disbelief; sometimes it seemed completely set in the real world, and other times I thought we must be in some futuristic science fiction world. There are too many things left unexplained, and ultimately I was disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 19, 2020
Voluntarily read and reviewed for Book Sirens.
Not really my cup of tea. A woman takes in an American lodger and they become friends. However, when things go wrong, the detective is at a loss to solve the crime. Ula is a genius and is working on a project to take in other’s memories. She has memory loss herself and is determined to change the memories for better by using another’s memories. Although I finished the book, I wasn’t gripped by the story. Too far fetched for me.
Not really my cup of tea. A woman takes in an American lodger and they become friends. However, when things go wrong, the detective is at a loss to solve the crime. Ula is a genius and is working on a project to take in other’s memories. She has memory loss herself and is determined to change the memories for better by using another’s memories. Although I finished the book, I wasn’t gripped by the story. Too far fetched for me.
May 14, 2020
I absolutely loved Tom Gabbay's other 3 books, The Lisbon Crossing, The Berlin Conspiracy, and The Teheran Conviction. This one, however, was not on the same level. It was a great story concept, but never developed its characters to their full potential. The narrative arc was at times disjointed and incoherent. Ultimately, it left me feeling that it could have been so much more.
June 8, 2020
I have questions. I came up with a theory about what was going to happen about 12% of the way and it was partially true. Sort of. I liked where this was going but I was left with questions. Some parts of this was a wtf moment but I understood what was going on after that.
August 25, 2020
London, England. Ula Mishkin (38, computer genius, scientist) asked the man to relax as she placed the Electronic Impulse Receiver (EIR software program) onto his head.
Ula asks him to describe what you thought you once saw & experienced.
As Ula veered onto City Rd, heading toward Angel, she never saw the bus that hit her.
Highbury Crescent. London, England. Mia Fraser (19, American, Central Saint Martin’s art student) is now Ula’s new flatmate,
1 morning Erik Berg (German, Biotechnical neurology) introduced himself & Mia at some of the eggs he fixed for breakfast.
Ula revealed her EIR secret to Mia.
Shoreditch, district in the East End of London, England. Nico (naked art model) had invited Mia to a gig & Mia brought her BFF Katherine “Kat” Anne Ellis (Marks & Spencer makeup dept Oxford St).
Peter Alan Greene (26, Mia’s ex-BF) had showed up also.
9/23, Later, Mia had been stabbed/killed on her way back to the flat.
Franklin, TN. Mia’s body was taken to the Haringey Public Mortuary.
Ula watched as Erik performed his neurological experiment.
She had created a software program that allowed her to reach into Mia’s dead housemate’s memory in order to find out/ID the killer.
DI Sarah Boyd stopped by to let Ula no she was not having any luck solving Ula’s former flatmate’s Mia’s murder.
DCI John Baynard asked Detective Boyd how the Fraser murder case was going.
Later, DI John Nichols (35+, Wandsworth’s PD) invited DI Sarah Boyd (daughter) to sit in on his interrogation with Peter.
Ula thought a crime of passion had been committed by Peter Greene against Mia.
The 2 of them had been having a romantic relationship, & Mia dumped Peter then he stalked her & threatened her.
Will the murder mystery get solved & someone brought to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written who-dunnit murder mystery book. It was extremely easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; JMS BOOKS; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; PDF book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Ula asks him to describe what you thought you once saw & experienced.
As Ula veered onto City Rd, heading toward Angel, she never saw the bus that hit her.
Highbury Crescent. London, England. Mia Fraser (19, American, Central Saint Martin’s art student) is now Ula’s new flatmate,
1 morning Erik Berg (German, Biotechnical neurology) introduced himself & Mia at some of the eggs he fixed for breakfast.
Ula revealed her EIR secret to Mia.
Shoreditch, district in the East End of London, England. Nico (naked art model) had invited Mia to a gig & Mia brought her BFF Katherine “Kat” Anne Ellis (Marks & Spencer makeup dept Oxford St).
Peter Alan Greene (26, Mia’s ex-BF) had showed up also.
9/23, Later, Mia had been stabbed/killed on her way back to the flat.
Franklin, TN. Mia’s body was taken to the Haringey Public Mortuary.
Ula watched as Erik performed his neurological experiment.
She had created a software program that allowed her to reach into Mia’s dead housemate’s memory in order to find out/ID the killer.
DI Sarah Boyd stopped by to let Ula no she was not having any luck solving Ula’s former flatmate’s Mia’s murder.
DCI John Baynard asked Detective Boyd how the Fraser murder case was going.
Later, DI John Nichols (35+, Wandsworth’s PD) invited DI Sarah Boyd (daughter) to sit in on his interrogation with Peter.
Ula thought a crime of passion had been committed by Peter Greene against Mia.
The 2 of them had been having a romantic relationship, & Mia dumped Peter then he stalked her & threatened her.
Will the murder mystery get solved & someone brought to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written who-dunnit murder mystery book. It was extremely easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; JMS BOOKS; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; PDF book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
July 14, 2020
Book Review: Access Point: A Psychological Thriller by Tom Gabbay
Rating: 5 stars
This. Was. Fantastic!!
This is the first book I have read from this author, and it will not be the last! His writing is so compelling I effortlessly flew through the pages. This book included one of the best plot twists and most dramatic endings I have read in a long time. I believe this is due to the skillfully formulated structure and the subtle foreshadowing throughout the book.
These clues begin on page one with Ula, a brilliant yet socially inept scientist. She is working with a blind subject to assist him in seeing images through a complicated computer process that Ula created. She brazenly demands to know what he is experiencing and when he does not answer due to his overwhelming emotions she begins badgering him to speak. She is callous to the obvious emotional toll it is taking on him at the moment, and this gives a clear insight into Ula’s strong and unlikable character right away.
Soon after, Ula is riding her bike and gives the finger to a driver who is blasting the car horn, and it seems like poetic justice is served when Ula is struck. She recovers approximately a year later, and we get to know a transformed Ula. She seems the exact opposite of how she is described and behaves before the accident. She is still a bit socially inept yet she is kinder, less likely to lash out, and is more unsure of herself. Initially, it could be chalked up to the traumatic and near-fatal incident she went through, yet much later we discover it is something completely different.
The events that ensue involve the groundbreaking memory work that Ula and Erik collaboratively engage in. This becomes more intense when Mia, Ula’s housemate is murdered. Ula had grown to appreciate and even love her, so her death was a profound loss to her. In a convoluted process, they use Ula to search Mia’s memory to help reveal the killer. This gets into an incredulous science-fiction scenario, which if too much time is spent analyzing it, may ruin the storyline for some.
There are some unclear and confusing moments as to what is going on with the characters and their interactions, yet I believe this adds to what the characters are going through. We are reading into their confusion and it is superbly done.
Some may argue that the ending was too neat and quick, yet I felt that all the pieces authentically came together synergistically to solidify the robust ending.
A must-read! You won’t want to miss the opportunity.
I received an ARC through Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5 stars
This. Was. Fantastic!!
This is the first book I have read from this author, and it will not be the last! His writing is so compelling I effortlessly flew through the pages. This book included one of the best plot twists and most dramatic endings I have read in a long time. I believe this is due to the skillfully formulated structure and the subtle foreshadowing throughout the book.
These clues begin on page one with Ula, a brilliant yet socially inept scientist. She is working with a blind subject to assist him in seeing images through a complicated computer process that Ula created. She brazenly demands to know what he is experiencing and when he does not answer due to his overwhelming emotions she begins badgering him to speak. She is callous to the obvious emotional toll it is taking on him at the moment, and this gives a clear insight into Ula’s strong and unlikable character right away.
Soon after, Ula is riding her bike and gives the finger to a driver who is blasting the car horn, and it seems like poetic justice is served when Ula is struck. She recovers approximately a year later, and we get to know a transformed Ula. She seems the exact opposite of how she is described and behaves before the accident. She is still a bit socially inept yet she is kinder, less likely to lash out, and is more unsure of herself. Initially, it could be chalked up to the traumatic and near-fatal incident she went through, yet much later we discover it is something completely different.
The events that ensue involve the groundbreaking memory work that Ula and Erik collaboratively engage in. This becomes more intense when Mia, Ula’s housemate is murdered. Ula had grown to appreciate and even love her, so her death was a profound loss to her. In a convoluted process, they use Ula to search Mia’s memory to help reveal the killer. This gets into an incredulous science-fiction scenario, which if too much time is spent analyzing it, may ruin the storyline for some.
There are some unclear and confusing moments as to what is going on with the characters and their interactions, yet I believe this adds to what the characters are going through. We are reading into their confusion and it is superbly done.
Some may argue that the ending was too neat and quick, yet I felt that all the pieces authentically came together synergistically to solidify the robust ending.
A must-read! You won’t want to miss the opportunity.
I received an ARC through Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After Mia, an art student is murdered, her housemate Ula decides to chime in and invent a way to access Mia's memories to help solve the mystery of who killed her after investigations by local police proves futile.
Tom Gabbay's Access Point is a psychological thriller that teases the mind and provokes thoughts you probably didn't know your mind could manifest. I found myself being confused several times throughout reading this book and I often got a science fiction feel rather than a psychological thriller. This is because the protagonist often worked with computers and I felt like the story was sci-fi.
The pacing of the novel is good, each scene transitioned smoothly into the next, almost too smoothly as I oftentimes was slightly confused about what the heck was happening. I enjoyed the book regardless. I was very immersed in the story. My favourite parts of the book was when Ula submerged herself into the memories of Mia. My least favourite part of the book was when the ending, because while unexpected, I was a little confused.
I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers because this truly is one.
After Mia, an art student is murdered, her housemate Ula decides to chime in and invent a way to access Mia's memories to help solve the mystery of who killed her after investigations by local police proves futile.
Tom Gabbay's Access Point is a psychological thriller that teases the mind and provokes thoughts you probably didn't know your mind could manifest. I found myself being confused several times throughout reading this book and I often got a science fiction feel rather than a psychological thriller. This is because the protagonist often worked with computers and I felt like the story was sci-fi.
The pacing of the novel is good, each scene transitioned smoothly into the next, almost too smoothly as I oftentimes was slightly confused about what the heck was happening. I enjoyed the book regardless. I was very immersed in the story. My favourite parts of the book was when Ula submerged herself into the memories of Mia. My least favourite part of the book was when the ending, because while unexpected, I was a little confused.
I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers because this truly is one.
Read
May 22, 2022*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
This story began with Ula , a scientist, trying to investigate the murder of her young housemate, Mia, by reliving her memories VR-style. And as quickly as that I was hooked in to this story and invested in both of the main characters.
This is a clever exploration of themes of memory and consciousness, including issues like the reliability of memory for various reasons and how our personalities/identities can affect the things we remember and how we remember them. And all of these thought-provoking ideas are given pace and tension via the vehicle of a sci-fi-ish psychological crime thriller plot.
The perspective skews and hints of unreliable narration from the beginning gradually build up to an unnerving and disorienting narrative atmosphere, where the reader is drawn into the questions of truth and reality along with the characters.
Access Point is a thoughtful look at how we know each other and ourselves, but also a tense, fast-paced and gripping thriller read.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
This story began with Ula , a scientist, trying to investigate the murder of her young housemate, Mia, by reliving her memories VR-style. And as quickly as that I was hooked in to this story and invested in both of the main characters.
This is a clever exploration of themes of memory and consciousness, including issues like the reliability of memory for various reasons and how our personalities/identities can affect the things we remember and how we remember them. And all of these thought-provoking ideas are given pace and tension via the vehicle of a sci-fi-ish psychological crime thriller plot.
The perspective skews and hints of unreliable narration from the beginning gradually build up to an unnerving and disorienting narrative atmosphere, where the reader is drawn into the questions of truth and reality along with the characters.
Access Point is a thoughtful look at how we know each other and ourselves, but also a tense, fast-paced and gripping thriller read.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
November 15, 2020
When American art student, Mia Fraser, moves into Ula Mishkin's home as a housemate, she has no idea that it will lead to her murder. Soon after moving in, Mia is found in the nearby park, brutally stabbed. Ula wants to find out what happened, and when the police investigation falters, she takes matters into her own hands, devising a way of accessing Mia's memories to identify the killer.
I was drawn in by the description of the plot, and it was an engaging read. The science fiction side of accessing the memories of the recently dead is fascinating, and I didn't guess the ending, which is always a good thing, but I ultimately finished the book feeling unsatisfied. The main reason for this is that the characters were not as fully formed as I wanted - too much was left unexplored. For this reason I have rated this 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4).
TW: deals with mental health issues, scenes of sexual assault, and suicide.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am voluntarily giving an honest review.
I was drawn in by the description of the plot, and it was an engaging read. The science fiction side of accessing the memories of the recently dead is fascinating, and I didn't guess the ending, which is always a good thing, but I ultimately finished the book feeling unsatisfied. The main reason for this is that the characters were not as fully formed as I wanted - too much was left unexplored. For this reason I have rated this 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4).
TW: deals with mental health issues, scenes of sexual assault, and suicide.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am voluntarily giving an honest review.
January 17, 2021
I found this book so enthralling that I read it in just a few hours. At no point could I guess what was going to happen next, I just had to keep reading to find out.
The character Ula, lives in a large house in Highgate, London and we are introduced to her when an American art student is looking for a room to rent. Bubbly Mia and her introvert landlady are a mismatch and Mia is unnerved when she feels she is being watched, although no one appears to be there. The discovery Ula is a scientist and works all night in her attic unsettles Mia further until Ula allows her to see the work she is doing, and lets her take part in the experiment. Detective Boyd gets involved when Mia is found stabbed to death in the local park.
I liked the way the characters personalities were revealed as the plot progressed and loved the way the authors 'suttle clues' hooked you into wanting to read more. I found this original plot engaging and was not expecting any of the breathtaking outcomes. I highly recommend this novel.
The character Ula, lives in a large house in Highgate, London and we are introduced to her when an American art student is looking for a room to rent. Bubbly Mia and her introvert landlady are a mismatch and Mia is unnerved when she feels she is being watched, although no one appears to be there. The discovery Ula is a scientist and works all night in her attic unsettles Mia further until Ula allows her to see the work she is doing, and lets her take part in the experiment. Detective Boyd gets involved when Mia is found stabbed to death in the local park.
I liked the way the characters personalities were revealed as the plot progressed and loved the way the authors 'suttle clues' hooked you into wanting to read more. I found this original plot engaging and was not expecting any of the breathtaking outcomes. I highly recommend this novel.
October 20, 2020
I received a free advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
Access Point is about a computer genius and neuroscientist, Ula, who is introverted to the point of being socially inept. Her roommate, Mia Fraser, is brutally killed and police are no closer to finding the killer than when it first happened. Ula decides to create a software program which will help her go into Mia's memories and find out who killed her. However, Ula is left horrified by what she discovers.
This book was exciting from start to finish. I was literally unable to put it down and stayed up until 1am to finish it. I was quite surprised by the ending and finished the book wondering if I should immediately reread it.
The author did this trick where just as I thought he was describing what happened when Mia was alive, Ula would wake up and I would realize it was just part of her sifting through Mia's memories. It was fascinating, if not a bit unsettling.
I understand this is normally not the genre the author writes but based on this book alone, I feel like I need to read more of his work.
This book is for adults. There are several adult themes such as rape, domestic violence, suicide and violence against a child. There is also obscene language
Access Point is about a computer genius and neuroscientist, Ula, who is introverted to the point of being socially inept. Her roommate, Mia Fraser, is brutally killed and police are no closer to finding the killer than when it first happened. Ula decides to create a software program which will help her go into Mia's memories and find out who killed her. However, Ula is left horrified by what she discovers.
This book was exciting from start to finish. I was literally unable to put it down and stayed up until 1am to finish it. I was quite surprised by the ending and finished the book wondering if I should immediately reread it.
The author did this trick where just as I thought he was describing what happened when Mia was alive, Ula would wake up and I would realize it was just part of her sifting through Mia's memories. It was fascinating, if not a bit unsettling.
I understand this is normally not the genre the author writes but based on this book alone, I feel like I need to read more of his work.
This book is for adults. There are several adult themes such as rape, domestic violence, suicide and violence against a child. There is also obscene language
April 19, 2020
With multiple twists and turns this well written suspenseful book was almost impossible to put down. The characters were intriguing while the storyline was well plotted.
Ula is a socially awkward but brilliant scientist, working on a breakthrough regarding memories and how they are stored. Mia a vivacious art student answers Ula’s advertisement of a room to lease. Neither of their lives will ever be the same again.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Ula is a socially awkward but brilliant scientist, working on a breakthrough regarding memories and how they are stored. Mia a vivacious art student answers Ula’s advertisement of a room to lease. Neither of their lives will ever be the same again.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
April 20, 2020
A very good suspenseful psychological thriller. Mia, a young America student artist is murdered. Her spinster landlady is involved in a mysterious mind machine and accesses Mia’s memory after she dies. The story starts with Mia’s rental through the discovery of her murderer which will come as a complete surprise. This was a quick read as I could not put it down until the finish. This was an ARC through BookSiren for my honest opinion.
April 20, 2020
If you are looking for a gripping page turner, this thriller is your book. Couldn’t put it down!
Access Point
Access Point
April 19, 2020
Murder mystery? Ghost story for the 21st century? Technological tale? All of the above? Yes, I think so and I enjoyed all of them folded together into this dreamy confection....
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