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Professor Brad Parker is enjoying his sabbatical in one of Harvard’s leading genomic engineering labs, focused on altering the human genome to meet challenges like treating cancer and increasing longevity. Then he’s interrupted by a surprise request from the FBI. Can he help them track down a Chinese spy who’s stealing the lab’s secrets? Becoming engaged in a case of criminal conspiracy is the last thing Brad wants to do—but at the urging of Karen Richmond, his partner and now an FBI agent herself, he agrees. The ensuing hunt takes Brad and Karen down a trail of treachery and murder that leads from Boston to the coast of southern Maine, where a killer lies in wait.
273 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2020
517 people are currently reading
2460 people want to read
About the author
Geoffrey M. Cooper
29 books139 followersGeoffrey M. Cooper is an award-winning author of medical thrillers and a 2023 Maine Literary Award Finalist in Crime Fiction. His experience as a former cancer researcher and scientific administrator, having held positions at Harvard Medical School and Boston University as professor, department chair, and associate dean, now provides extensive background for his novels. He lives in Ogunquit, Maine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
May 24, 2020
Medical thriller fans, Geoffrey M. Cooper has one for you! FOREVER combines scientific research, a professor who gets caught up in a criminal conspiracy when his genome engineering shows promise as a catalyst for treating cancer and possibly the scientific answer to the Fountain of Youth.
The last thing Professor Brad Parker pictured was being caught up in an investigation with his FBI girlfriend that would lead them down a deadly rabbit hole filled with deceit, treachery and murder when he is offered a grant that could answer his prayers to continue his studies.
Don’t expect over-the-top heroes, dashing and strong. Picture an academic who surprises even himself with what he is capable of doing when a colleague is suspected of being a spy and sending secret projects to an enemy/competitor. Something isn’t adding up when the possible spy commits suicide, could it have been murder? Why?
Geoffrey M. Cooper has nailed another intriguing thriller that will have readers turning page after page, following a labyrinth of clues that will not be untangled until the very end. Who knew laboratory science could be so exciting? Great writing, excellent characters, written in a fascinating way that is not far-fetched or written above a layman’s comprehension, not to mention a mystery that is simply fantastic!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Geoffrey M. Cooper! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Maine Authors Publishing (May 15, 2020)
Publication Date: May 15, 2020
Genre: Medical Thriller
Print Length: 198 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
The last thing Professor Brad Parker pictured was being caught up in an investigation with his FBI girlfriend that would lead them down a deadly rabbit hole filled with deceit, treachery and murder when he is offered a grant that could answer his prayers to continue his studies.
Don’t expect over-the-top heroes, dashing and strong. Picture an academic who surprises even himself with what he is capable of doing when a colleague is suspected of being a spy and sending secret projects to an enemy/competitor. Something isn’t adding up when the possible spy commits suicide, could it have been murder? Why?
Geoffrey M. Cooper has nailed another intriguing thriller that will have readers turning page after page, following a labyrinth of clues that will not be untangled until the very end. Who knew laboratory science could be so exciting? Great writing, excellent characters, written in a fascinating way that is not far-fetched or written above a layman’s comprehension, not to mention a mystery that is simply fantastic!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Geoffrey M. Cooper! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Maine Authors Publishing (May 15, 2020)
Publication Date: May 15, 2020
Genre: Medical Thriller
Print Length: 198 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 5, 2020
My first book from this author. It was an easy read might have got bogged down in some of the blood reasearch but it was ok. I could tell this was a new writer acfter all he is a researcher first writer second. the main story was ok and the dialogue was passing. he lost the creative tension of the story for about 40 percent of it in the middle. I am not sure where he wanted to go with this story because a certain point he tried to tie two stories together-it was ok. The ending was predictable and somewhat over the top not the first time that has happened lol. would I read another book by him mmmmm if had really nothing on hand to read and want a fast light read yes. I say in the end If you need alight fast read to get out of a slump then give him a spin you could do a lot worse trust me lol
June 25, 2020
A nail-biting thriller that keeps you turning the pages till the end. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this one.
Read my full review coming soon on IndieReader!
Read my full review coming soon on IndieReader!
May 29, 2020
This is a great medical thriller but don't expect any hospitals to appear. Instead this is focused on the underworld of secret laboratories, high tech research, spies and genetic experiments. The idea of discovering the secret of how medicine could lead to eternal youth has been around for a long time and I have read read a few that cover similar ground. The nice thing about this thriller was creating excellent characters who you quickly become invested in and care about. Interweaving relationships and the hunt for a serial killer adds to the tension all the way through.
In many ways the novel follows a fairly predictable path, however this does not make it a dull book. Although I was hoping for perhaps a few more unexpected twists there was plenty of danger and threat to keep me turning the pages. The other element that sets this book apart is often medical thrillers can leave you lost in the jargon and technical information. I was pleased to find that in spite of having no medical background I never felt that I couldn't follow or understand the technical side of the story and yet nor did it feel 'dumbed down' - quite a feat on the author's part for the genre.
In many ways the novel follows a fairly predictable path, however this does not make it a dull book. Although I was hoping for perhaps a few more unexpected twists there was plenty of danger and threat to keep me turning the pages. The other element that sets this book apart is often medical thrillers can leave you lost in the jargon and technical information. I was pleased to find that in spite of having no medical background I never felt that I couldn't follow or understand the technical side of the story and yet nor did it feel 'dumbed down' - quite a feat on the author's part for the genre.
July 3, 2020
Unmatched sincerity from personal experience and enthralling action
I didn't realize at first when reading this novel that it was a sequel, which is nice because if you haven't read the first this one is still very easy to follow and enjoy. It explores Brad Parker and his partner Karen as a new scandal at the work place springs up and Brad inevitably becomes tangled in the thick of the mess despite his reservations. Like most novels, some things can feel predictable but Cooper manages to keep the dialogue engaging and the plot intensely fueled with tension and action. Incorporating his own knowledge of cancer research and working at a university adds genuinity that can't be faked and immerses the reader even more into this fast-paced and exciting novel.
I didn't realize at first when reading this novel that it was a sequel, which is nice because if you haven't read the first this one is still very easy to follow and enjoy. It explores Brad Parker and his partner Karen as a new scandal at the work place springs up and Brad inevitably becomes tangled in the thick of the mess despite his reservations. Like most novels, some things can feel predictable but Cooper manages to keep the dialogue engaging and the plot intensely fueled with tension and action. Incorporating his own knowledge of cancer research and working at a university adds genuinity that can't be faked and immerses the reader even more into this fast-paced and exciting novel.
July 1, 2020
Forever: A Medical Thriller by Geoffery M Cooper is a very creative and fast-paced story. It’s a real page-turner that I could barely put down. I was attracted to the title because I had never read a medical thriller, and I am pleased to say the story lives up to its name. Our author cleverly blends the worlds of medical research, international espionage, law enforcement, and research funding. Actually, I surmise the story may be based in reality. The “about the author” notes say that Mr. Cooper was a cancer researcher and professor at Harvard University as is Professor Brad Parker our protagonist. Our author lives in Maine, where a good portion of the story takes place. Geoffery M. Cooper is genuinely writing what he knows, which is apparent in his ability to make the reader feel as if they are right there watching the story take place. In fact, I Googled some of the locations used in the story which actually exist and are just as our author described. Despite my best efforts, I could not solve the mystery until our author laid it out for us to see. I greatly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. Enjoy!
May 20, 2020
Great Characterization, Intriguing Plot
I absolutely loved the way we learn about the main characters. I normally find that authors find that bit irrelevant in this genre, but I was pleasantly surprised that here the characters got a chance to shine.
I simply didn't want to put the book down, and alas I didn't, until I finished it. I must admit I was a bit sceptical when I read the description, not being sure whether the story would truly be for me.
But it ended up having me glued to the screen of my Kindle, from the first page to the last. It's a perfect example of how someone's life can change in a heartbeat, and even if you have the best intentions at heart, you aren't exempt from the bad stuff.
All in all, it's a brilliant story that makes you question a lot of things about yourself and the world in general. And that's a good thing, in case you were wondering...
I absolutely loved the way we learn about the main characters. I normally find that authors find that bit irrelevant in this genre, but I was pleasantly surprised that here the characters got a chance to shine.
I simply didn't want to put the book down, and alas I didn't, until I finished it. I must admit I was a bit sceptical when I read the description, not being sure whether the story would truly be for me.
But it ended up having me glued to the screen of my Kindle, from the first page to the last. It's a perfect example of how someone's life can change in a heartbeat, and even if you have the best intentions at heart, you aren't exempt from the bad stuff.
All in all, it's a brilliant story that makes you question a lot of things about yourself and the world in general. And that's a good thing, in case you were wondering...
January 23, 2021
Written by a retired cancer researcher, this novel is full of medical jargon and technical conversations. Some readers might find this content boring or irrelevant but I found these portions of the story fascinating and totally absorbing. CRISPR is a powerful gene editing technology and is being used today to chop up and destroy the DNA of the Covid-19 virus. However, it is viewed by many as a controversial tool as it can be so easily misused, for instance by a mega-rich maniac like the central character Monroe.
The author's style of writing is clear and keeps you interested in the plot. However, the characters lacked interest for me. Although the main character Brad was an intelligent professor, he was unbelievably naïve as he was being courted by Alice and Monroe. Monroe was a stereotype billionaire. This made the plot flow somewhat predictable. I don't want to give the game away but I easily worked out who were the 'baddies' (with one exception) and how the story would end.
This review was written by Shawn Callon, author of The Diplomatic Spy.
The author's style of writing is clear and keeps you interested in the plot. However, the characters lacked interest for me. Although the main character Brad was an intelligent professor, he was unbelievably naïve as he was being courted by Alice and Monroe. Monroe was a stereotype billionaire. This made the plot flow somewhat predictable. I don't want to give the game away but I easily worked out who were the 'baddies' (with one exception) and how the story would end.
This review was written by Shawn Callon, author of The Diplomatic Spy.
May 15, 2020
Forever, a captivating medical thriller, is the newest addition to the fictional books written by Geoffrey M. Cooper. During his sabbatical, Dr. Brad Parker is learning genome editing techniques at a neighboring institute. When two FBI officials enlist his help to investigate a claim of suspected academic espionage, he reluctantly agrees at his partner’s insistence. However, things escalate very soon, culminating in the death of a promising young researcher. Meanwhile, the Monroe Foundation becomes extremely keen on the laboratory techniques Parker has developed. In exchange for lucrative funding, he has to conduct his research in a private laboratory provided by Walter Monroe. When Parker finally realizes that he is being used as a pawn in a nefarious scheme, it might already be too late to escape.
The thriller maintains a steady pace with tension building up gradually, giving the reader the feel of a cozy mystery. That is until the situation escalates rapidly and the reader finds themselves stuck in a nightmarish plot, unable to escape. While some parts of the novel might have been predictable to the seasoned readers, Cooper saves the best for the end. The last twist was so unexpected that I never saw it coming. Thankfully, Parker demonstrates a combination of scientific knowledge, technical expertise, meticulous planning, and level-headedness without which thwarting the evil plans would have been impossible.
Cooper incorporated a few debatable, if not outright controversial, themes prevalent in academia. The notion of academic espionage by Chinses researchers is one such topic that might cause raised eyebrows. The prejudice directed against a particular ethnic group is more common than we would like to believe; however, I was relieved when Parker proved to be unbiased and insistent on logical proof instead. Another controversial topic presented here was human gene editing and the ethical issues concerned therein. Popular thrillers have a penchant for portraying this technology as an evil scheme, one that is akin to playing God, while they gloss over its potential benefits. Admirably, Cooper handles this sensitive issue with a firm scientific approach and rightly proclaims “The technology was the same whether it was used for good or evil.”
The presence of such heavy topics does not forbid readers to enjoy the little pleasures of life. Parker appreciates every moment, enjoying culinary delights, scenic beauty, bird watching, and loving company of his partner Karen and pet Rosie. Cooper’s extreme attention to detail ensures a thorough setting for each scene, making the reading experience comfortable.
I will never cease to be amazed at the ease with which Cooper presents mind-boggling scientific phenomena or cutting-edge technologies to his readers. Had I not read this book, I wouldn’t have believed that one could explain the CRISPR technique or the logic behind blood plasma transfusion in a purely fictional setting. Cooper has a unique way of making the academic details palatable so that readers without a science background can easily follow the logic.
As a graduate student myself, this book fell right inside my comfort zone. I could relate to various aspects of this novel, be it the frustration over agonizingly slow-going experiments or the inevitable slumber that follows a hearty lunch during an endlessly dragging conference. Besides, I was able to garner some knowledge from the book, especially regarding the aging research and the behavioral tests conducted on mice. Having enjoyed both the scientific and the thrilling parts of the novel, I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to the readers who appreciate medical thrillers. It doesn’t matter if you are from academia or not, this book is certainly a treat for everyone.
The thriller maintains a steady pace with tension building up gradually, giving the reader the feel of a cozy mystery. That is until the situation escalates rapidly and the reader finds themselves stuck in a nightmarish plot, unable to escape. While some parts of the novel might have been predictable to the seasoned readers, Cooper saves the best for the end. The last twist was so unexpected that I never saw it coming. Thankfully, Parker demonstrates a combination of scientific knowledge, technical expertise, meticulous planning, and level-headedness without which thwarting the evil plans would have been impossible.
Cooper incorporated a few debatable, if not outright controversial, themes prevalent in academia. The notion of academic espionage by Chinses researchers is one such topic that might cause raised eyebrows. The prejudice directed against a particular ethnic group is more common than we would like to believe; however, I was relieved when Parker proved to be unbiased and insistent on logical proof instead. Another controversial topic presented here was human gene editing and the ethical issues concerned therein. Popular thrillers have a penchant for portraying this technology as an evil scheme, one that is akin to playing God, while they gloss over its potential benefits. Admirably, Cooper handles this sensitive issue with a firm scientific approach and rightly proclaims “The technology was the same whether it was used for good or evil.”
The presence of such heavy topics does not forbid readers to enjoy the little pleasures of life. Parker appreciates every moment, enjoying culinary delights, scenic beauty, bird watching, and loving company of his partner Karen and pet Rosie. Cooper’s extreme attention to detail ensures a thorough setting for each scene, making the reading experience comfortable.
I will never cease to be amazed at the ease with which Cooper presents mind-boggling scientific phenomena or cutting-edge technologies to his readers. Had I not read this book, I wouldn’t have believed that one could explain the CRISPR technique or the logic behind blood plasma transfusion in a purely fictional setting. Cooper has a unique way of making the academic details palatable so that readers without a science background can easily follow the logic.
As a graduate student myself, this book fell right inside my comfort zone. I could relate to various aspects of this novel, be it the frustration over agonizingly slow-going experiments or the inevitable slumber that follows a hearty lunch during an endlessly dragging conference. Besides, I was able to garner some knowledge from the book, especially regarding the aging research and the behavioral tests conducted on mice. Having enjoyed both the scientific and the thrilling parts of the novel, I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to the readers who appreciate medical thrillers. It doesn’t matter if you are from academia or not, this book is certainly a treat for everyone.
October 25, 2020
Forever is a medical thriller story about a professor who is on his sabbatical leave. Brad Parker is one of Harvard’s Genomic engineers, and he specializes in altering genome to find a cure for cancer. He is contacted by the FBI asking him to help them find a Chinese spy who has some critical information that cannot get into the wrong hands. Together with Karen Richmond, his partner takes on this challenge, and that’s how the adventure begins.
The book is well written and is action-packed. The pace complemented the scenes, and the exquisite style of descriptive writing enhanced the reader’s enjoyment. Cooper’s professional background really helps him in the story plot.
The literature has a unique backdrop and is vivid. The added romance between Brad and the FBI agent created an interesting dynamic as well.
Without the author having a thorough knowledge of the subject matter and having done this research in-depth, I believe his book would have fallen flat. So I applaud him for creating a plausible story.
Anyone who enjoys mystery and suspense storylines will thoroughly relish this one.
The book is well written and is action-packed. The pace complemented the scenes, and the exquisite style of descriptive writing enhanced the reader’s enjoyment. Cooper’s professional background really helps him in the story plot.
The literature has a unique backdrop and is vivid. The added romance between Brad and the FBI agent created an interesting dynamic as well.
Without the author having a thorough knowledge of the subject matter and having done this research in-depth, I believe his book would have fallen flat. So I applaud him for creating a plausible story.
Anyone who enjoys mystery and suspense storylines will thoroughly relish this one.
May 16, 2020
"Forever" is another fantastic thriller from Geoffrey Cooper. Brad and Karen from "Nondisclosure" return, and are every bit as likable as in that novel. Brad is on sabbatical, making progress on some promising research, when two FBI agents inform him of academic espionage occurring in the lab where he is working. Conflicting and confusing clues pile up for Brad, as he is reluctantly drawn into the investigation. Meanwhile, Karen is trying to solve a string of strange serial killings that have baffled the FBI for some time.
The pair soon find themselves once more caught up in a web of deception and death that they both will have to use all their skills to solve and survive.
As with Cooper's previous books, this is a fast-paced and enjoyable page-turner. I especially enjoyed the ending, though I won't say why here--too big of a spoiler. There is considerable medical terminology in this book, but it's all presented in a way that's easily accessible to the layperson. Definitely a great read for fans of thrillers.
[Note: This review is based on an ARC of this book]
The pair soon find themselves once more caught up in a web of deception and death that they both will have to use all their skills to solve and survive.
As with Cooper's previous books, this is a fast-paced and enjoyable page-turner. I especially enjoyed the ending, though I won't say why here--too big of a spoiler. There is considerable medical terminology in this book, but it's all presented in a way that's easily accessible to the layperson. Definitely a great read for fans of thrillers.
[Note: This review is based on an ARC of this book]
June 2, 2020
I really enjoyed Nondisclosure, the first Brad Parker thriller. However, the mystery was pretty guessable and I mostly stayed around for the strong characters. Forever keeps the good things (cool look into the world of academia, great voice for Brad), and adds in more complexity to the mystery, so you're not sure which of the shady characters is the real villain. The writing is just as solid as the first. Looking forward to more in this series.
May 29, 2020
As Professor Brad Parker is on sabbatical in one of Harvard’s leading genomic engineering labs, he is interrupted by the FBI. They would like him to help them track down a Chinese spy who has been stealing lab secrets. This is of no interest to him, however, with some urging he agrees to do so. With his partner, Karen Richmond, who is now an FBI agent as well, he begins a hunt down a trail of treachery and death from Boston to the southern part of Maine. The book touches lightly on the medical research field - just enough to give you insight and further understanding. It is a twisted plot that continues to surprise you with devious conspiracy, spies, the FBI, and a serial killer. This is highly recommended for readers who enjoy mystery/suspense, intrigue and a page-turning thriller. You will not be disappointed.
May 20, 2020
This is a well-written and clever medical thriller that reminds me of Robin Cook's books. The main character is on sabbatical to do cancer research and gets involved in a search for a spy stealing secrets as well as being pit against a serial killer. While the author has extensive technical knowledge he does well in blending it into fiction to the point it doesn't bogged down the story but enhances is. The pacing is quick and consistent, and the author does a great job at paying attention to detail, even the smallest of them. The author has a great voice and a great handle on craft. His scene setting and world building allow me to feel as if I am in the story, and the twists keep me guessing. This book is an intriguing page-turner recommended for fans of Robin Cook.
May 19, 2020
An entertaining medical thriller full of great science and a clever storyline. Kept me reading outside on my deck long past dinnertime! Loved the setting of New England too. Great descriptions.
May 16, 2020
As the title suggests, Geoffrey M. Cooper’s latest release, Forever: A Medical Thriller, is an action-packed mystery/thriller pitting a good-natured professor (the affable Brad Parker) and his partner, Karen Richmond, against a devious conspiracy involving spies, the FBI, and even a serial killer. As the story unfolds, readers are treated to an ever-evolving plot featuring a large ensemble cast that continues to surprise, leaving readers guessing until the very last page.
While Cooper has penned several scientific-based texts, Forever is the Maine-based author’s third published foray into the world of fiction, and the writer has clearly found his voice. As a retired medical researcher, Cooper leans heavily upon his professional experience, offering a vivid take on the medical research process. Be it the vernacular or the myriad of challenges inherent to the progress of medicine, Cooper clearly knows his stuff, and the setting he creates is both instantly believable and memorable.
Geoffrey M. Cooper’s latest release, Forever: A Medical Thriller, is exactly as advertised: an intriguing page-turner set against a vivid, unique backdrop. Highly recommended for fans of mystery/suspense.
While Cooper has penned several scientific-based texts, Forever is the Maine-based author’s third published foray into the world of fiction, and the writer has clearly found his voice. As a retired medical researcher, Cooper leans heavily upon his professional experience, offering a vivid take on the medical research process. Be it the vernacular or the myriad of challenges inherent to the progress of medicine, Cooper clearly knows his stuff, and the setting he creates is both instantly believable and memorable.
Geoffrey M. Cooper’s latest release, Forever: A Medical Thriller, is exactly as advertised: an intriguing page-turner set against a vivid, unique backdrop. Highly recommended for fans of mystery/suspense.
January 2, 2022
Good book.
What I liked:
-It was fun hanging around the Boston area.
-Initially, I liked being in a lab of a big university and being with the professor on sabbatical.
-It was interesting watching the Chinese trying to steal research and results.
What I didn't like:
-For me, it was very predictable.
-I was never convinced the bad girl was bad (she wasn't)
-A serial killer is killing people with a certain blood type and they are drained of blood.
-Without going into a lot...for me...it was just too predictable.
But and why 5 stars:
-It was well written.
-I did like the main character.
-I liked the setting.
-Maybe I know too much about the subject, so there was no suspense or surprise. So I did not want to punish the book if I just happen to know too much.
What I liked:
-It was fun hanging around the Boston area.
-Initially, I liked being in a lab of a big university and being with the professor on sabbatical.
-It was interesting watching the Chinese trying to steal research and results.
What I didn't like:
-For me, it was very predictable.
-I was never convinced the bad girl was bad (she wasn't)
-A serial killer is killing people with a certain blood type and they are drained of blood.
-Without going into a lot...for me...it was just too predictable.
But and why 5 stars:
-It was well written.
-I did like the main character.
-I liked the setting.
-Maybe I know too much about the subject, so there was no suspense or surprise. So I did not want to punish the book if I just happen to know too much.
June 7, 2024
DNF, stopping at 12% due to wholly uninspired dialogue that is just too painfully dull to deal with. I have zero confidence in this author's ability to give me the story I was hoping for. Oh well.
July 12, 2024
Have liked the other books, this one's premise is too far fetched for me
September 23, 2021
I seem to be in the minority of readers who did not care for this book. While reading it I got the sense it was the work of a young, new novelist. The story line initially involves an FBI investigation of a possible foreign spy. It struck me that cases involving foreign agents (including some in China) would be handled by the CIA. I think the CIA would have led the investigation into the character Mei Li, working jointly with the FBI once US citizens became suspects.
A US Gov website states, "The CIA and FBI are both members of the U.S. Intelligence Community. The CIA, however, has no law enforcement function. Rather, it collects and analyzes information that is vital to the formation of U.S. policy, particularly in areas that impact the security of the nation. The CIA collects information only regarding foreign countries and their citizens. Unlike the FBI, it is prohibited from collecting information regarding “U.S. Persons,” a term that includes U.S. citizens, resident aliens, legal immigrants, and U.S. corporations, regardless of where they are located."
This might be a bit on the petty side, but it struck me as odd that an elite, elegant dinner party hosted by a wealthy foundation would pour an Oregon Pinot Noir with filet mignon. (OK, so I'm a wine snob. And no offense, Oregon, you do make great Pinot, I just wouldn't pair it with filet.)
The novel was definitely a page turner with some interesting developments in the story line but I thought that character development was lacking. So much so, that about 60% of the way through I started picturing the characters as comic book characters, complete with blows to the face (pow!) and smoldering facial expressions during scenes of sexual tension.
Finally, although I'll bet the medical side of the book was accurate since it was written by a former cancer researcher and academic, I found myself wondering if the experiments and studies could yield results so quickly--weeks rather than months or years.
A US Gov website states, "The CIA and FBI are both members of the U.S. Intelligence Community. The CIA, however, has no law enforcement function. Rather, it collects and analyzes information that is vital to the formation of U.S. policy, particularly in areas that impact the security of the nation. The CIA collects information only regarding foreign countries and their citizens. Unlike the FBI, it is prohibited from collecting information regarding “U.S. Persons,” a term that includes U.S. citizens, resident aliens, legal immigrants, and U.S. corporations, regardless of where they are located."
This might be a bit on the petty side, but it struck me as odd that an elite, elegant dinner party hosted by a wealthy foundation would pour an Oregon Pinot Noir with filet mignon. (OK, so I'm a wine snob. And no offense, Oregon, you do make great Pinot, I just wouldn't pair it with filet.)
The novel was definitely a page turner with some interesting developments in the story line but I thought that character development was lacking. So much so, that about 60% of the way through I started picturing the characters as comic book characters, complete with blows to the face (pow!) and smoldering facial expressions during scenes of sexual tension.
Finally, although I'll bet the medical side of the book was accurate since it was written by a former cancer researcher and academic, I found myself wondering if the experiments and studies could yield results so quickly--weeks rather than months or years.
August 18, 2020
Professor Brad Parker is busy researching new treatments for cancer in Harvard's genomic engineering labs for his sabbatical. In the midst of this, he is approached by the FBI; they want help with their investigation. The agents believe that there is a Chinese spy in his lab who is passing along advances made in experimental tests. These leaks of information could have serious consequences. With support from his partner, Karen Richmond, and FBI agent herself, can he help them before it's too late?
I went into this book, expecting it would be a good read. I didn't expect it to become a story that I couldn't tear myself away from! From beginning to end, the story is intriguing, the plot is well developed and the end extremely satisfying.
A lot of the story surrounds the lab and the science community. The author does well to succinctly include the scientific terminologies but keeps the story rolling to keep the reader entertained. The characters are well written with realistic tendencies that bought them to life.
The thriller/mystery aspect of the story is well thought out. I did guess a couple of reveals, but there were quite a few points that caught me off guard. I liked this, because, for me, this made the book more original and not too cliched.
This book is truly a thrilling tale of murder, espionage, and deceit!
I went into this book, expecting it would be a good read. I didn't expect it to become a story that I couldn't tear myself away from! From beginning to end, the story is intriguing, the plot is well developed and the end extremely satisfying.
A lot of the story surrounds the lab and the science community. The author does well to succinctly include the scientific terminologies but keeps the story rolling to keep the reader entertained. The characters are well written with realistic tendencies that bought them to life.
The thriller/mystery aspect of the story is well thought out. I did guess a couple of reveals, but there were quite a few points that caught me off guard. I liked this, because, for me, this made the book more original and not too cliched.
This book is truly a thrilling tale of murder, espionage, and deceit!
September 24, 2023
3.5, I was hoping for better due to the high avg star rating. It was an interesting take and I enjoyed all the science aspect of it. While I did enjoy and read this fast there was not a lot of thriller aspects and was slow. I was hoping for more out of this one
February 18, 2021
While I’m generally a fan of medical thrillers this was an exception to the case. The book itself was easy to read and follow, which is a huge advantage in a novel filled with medical jargon. The research aspect to it was kept interesting throughout the novel but the plot itself was bland and predictable. There was no shocking turn or edge of the seat moment but definitely a great scientific mind behind those pages.
Read
August 21, 2022Medical thriller. A researcher is hired to do work on gene editing. The benefactor is obsessed with living forever, and is willing to kill others to get his way. The researcher double crosses him and inserts cancer causing genes into the benefactor. The researcher is able to escape and later learns the benefactor has died of cancer.
July 25, 2020
Mostly skimmed. Not his best
September 1, 2021
Boring
Too technical. No real relationship with characters I story. Found it contrived an
D dry. Too bad. It could have been more exciting.
Too technical. No real relationship with characters I story. Found it contrived an
D dry. Too bad. It could have been more exciting.
September 18, 2021
Okay
Simple story but scary possibilities. Writing basic and fairly elemental level. Nothing exciting and does not make me want to read more by thus author.
Simple story but scary possibilities. Writing basic and fairly elemental level. Nothing exciting and does not make me want to read more by thus author.
May 3, 2022
Starts Good, Gets Tedious
I like how this book started. Then about halfway through, I figured out the “twist” and what was going on. After that, it was just a slog to the end.
I like how this book started. Then about halfway through, I figured out the “twist” and what was going on. After that, it was just a slog to the end.
June 6, 2020
Forever: A Medical Thriller by Geoffrey M. Cooper is a gripping novel that follows protagonist, Professor Brad Parker who is on sabbatical and uses genome technology to develop cancer research. What was supposed to be a year of peaceful, scientific exploration turns into Parker finding himself involved with the FBI, an eccentric billionaire, a suspicious colleague, and groundbreaking scientific developments.
I am impressed with the author’s knowledge, he definitely knows what he’s talking about. Science has never really been my forte, so when he uses words such as, “nanoparticles” “parabiosis” “anathema” and “histocompatibility,” it tends to go over my head, however the author does a decent job explaining the terminology without having it feel forced.
I find Alice quite suspicious from the moment she is introduced. She immediately asks him a lot of questions regarding his work and I’m surprised someone as smart as Brad didn’t put it together sooner. In fact, as someone who is supposed to be watching his back, I don’t think he’s taking many precautions at all. I don’t know that I find Brad, or really any of the characters all that likable; they’re a little la te da with their fancy meals, aged scotch, and wine and strawberries, and for him being so head over heels for Karen, he sure gives Alice enough of his attention.
I do like the pacing of the novel; each scene flows right into the next, no unnecessary fluff— this could be due to following the plot through Parker’s scientist brain, but the author creates a well-balanced timeline of events. There is a neat introduction and conclusion to every scene befitting the format of the novel.
The ending was my favorite part of the novel, (spoiler) Agent Kimble being a double agent was an interesting twist that I did not see coming and the climax, tension, and build up at the end is great; the characters got themselves in quite the pickle that seems impossible for them to get out of. The tension and fear, especially the part in the woods, is very exciting. The novel gets better and better as the author picks up the pace—it really makes you think and keeps you guessing. Overall this was extremely well-written and a novel I’d recommend to read, especially for those into medical/science thrillers.
I am impressed with the author’s knowledge, he definitely knows what he’s talking about. Science has never really been my forte, so when he uses words such as, “nanoparticles” “parabiosis” “anathema” and “histocompatibility,” it tends to go over my head, however the author does a decent job explaining the terminology without having it feel forced.
I find Alice quite suspicious from the moment she is introduced. She immediately asks him a lot of questions regarding his work and I’m surprised someone as smart as Brad didn’t put it together sooner. In fact, as someone who is supposed to be watching his back, I don’t think he’s taking many precautions at all. I don’t know that I find Brad, or really any of the characters all that likable; they’re a little la te da with their fancy meals, aged scotch, and wine and strawberries, and for him being so head over heels for Karen, he sure gives Alice enough of his attention.
I do like the pacing of the novel; each scene flows right into the next, no unnecessary fluff— this could be due to following the plot through Parker’s scientist brain, but the author creates a well-balanced timeline of events. There is a neat introduction and conclusion to every scene befitting the format of the novel.
The ending was my favorite part of the novel, (spoiler) Agent Kimble being a double agent was an interesting twist that I did not see coming and the climax, tension, and build up at the end is great; the characters got themselves in quite the pickle that seems impossible for them to get out of. The tension and fear, especially the part in the woods, is very exciting. The novel gets better and better as the author picks up the pace—it really makes you think and keeps you guessing. Overall this was extremely well-written and a novel I’d recommend to read, especially for those into medical/science thrillers.
July 22, 2020
Forever is a novel that really captures the best of the medical thriller genre in a lot of ways. It is a classic thriller story, full of mystery and suspense and immersed in the world of international espionage, conspiracies, and murder. The great thing about Forever, which sets it apart from many of the same genre, is the outsider perspective offered by Professor Brad Parker, a genomic engineer. His unfamiliarity with this world, and his relatable responses to the outlandish situations he finds himself in, helps to ground the story in reality - he always seems a little out of his depth despite his scientific expertise. The characterisation in this book is generally exceptional, and I also really loved the character of Karen, who plays the part of both scientist and agent.
In many ways, Forever is a novel that adheres to a lot of generic conventions - quite a few of the plot points were relatively predictable - but it does so in a way that feels fresh and exciting. Despite feeling like I could often guess what might be coming next, I found myself tense with the anticipation of every development, regardless.
I would definitely recommend this book to any fan of thrillers and espionage.
In many ways, Forever is a novel that adheres to a lot of generic conventions - quite a few of the plot points were relatively predictable - but it does so in a way that feels fresh and exciting. Despite feeling like I could often guess what might be coming next, I found myself tense with the anticipation of every development, regardless.
I would definitely recommend this book to any fan of thrillers and espionage.
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