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Theo Cray and Jessica Blackwood #1
Mastermind
Doktor Theo Cray a agentka FBI Jessica Blackwoodová musejí spojit síly, aby dokázali odvrátit apokalyptické spiknutí! Záhadná elektrická bouře uvrhne Manhattan do temnoty, a když se na něj ještě snese prapodivná dusivá mlha, zhroutí se veškerá elektronická komunikace – jako by ostrov vmžiku zmizel v prázdnotě. Zvláštní agentka FBI Jessica Blackwoodová a brilantní vědec Theo Cray vědí, že nejde o nešťastnou náhodu, nýbrž o promyšlený trik. Při převozu z newyorského vězení totiž uprchl jejich úhlavní nepřítel, sériový vrah a mistr manipulace zvaný Čaroděj, který slíbil skoncovat s lidstvem. A nyní své sliby plní. Města po celém světě postupně propadají chaosu a mizí v podobných černých dírách, což je však pouze předzvěst něčeho mnohem většího. Mají-li Jessica s Theem Čarodějovy záměry zhatit, musejí se ponořit do nejhlubších stínů i té nejtemnější ze všech myslí…
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2021
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June 6, 2022
Maybe too much going on?
This started out very promising, a blackout in Manhattan, I'm thinking EMP attack. What a suspenseful and exciting beginning then this weird phenomenon crept to other cities around the world. I was hooked until there was too much going on, it's not as what it seems. Although, I can say there's a topic of interest for me close to the ending.
More importantly, I couldn't connect with the characters. FBI agent Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray are flat. I later found out both are from the author's other books as well as the villain, sort of Dr. Evil'ish character. I wonder if I'd enjoy this more if I had read Jessica/Theo in their own series before this book.
This is my first Andrew Mayne novel and unlikely that I'll continue with this series. I have my eyes on his, "Underwater Investigation" books. I hope that I'll click with that one more. As for this one, a 2.5⭐.
This started out very promising, a blackout in Manhattan, I'm thinking EMP attack. What a suspenseful and exciting beginning then this weird phenomenon crept to other cities around the world. I was hooked until there was too much going on, it's not as what it seems. Although, I can say there's a topic of interest for me close to the ending.
More importantly, I couldn't connect with the characters. FBI agent Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray are flat. I later found out both are from the author's other books as well as the villain, sort of Dr. Evil'ish character. I wonder if I'd enjoy this more if I had read Jessica/Theo in their own series before this book.
This is my first Andrew Mayne novel and unlikely that I'll continue with this series. I have my eyes on his, "Underwater Investigation" books. I hope that I'll click with that one more. As for this one, a 2.5⭐.
August 13, 2021
Completely OTT and bananas!
I liked the premise, but the crazy scenario combined with the over the top super hero characters had me massaging the pressure points in my head. It probably didn't help that I just finished another mind-bending read. More brain exercises!
We have a black-out in Manhattan, a team-up of FBI specialist Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray, the diabolical villain, espionage and stolen monkeys, good vs. evil, need I say more?
The characters were well written with some humor thrown in, but the large number of everything under the sun schemes will keep me from returning to the series.
If you crave some bananas topped with candy corn, you may love it!
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my review copy/ OUT Sept 7, 2021
I liked the premise, but the crazy scenario combined with the over the top super hero characters had me massaging the pressure points in my head. It probably didn't help that I just finished another mind-bending read. More brain exercises!
We have a black-out in Manhattan, a team-up of FBI specialist Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray, the diabolical villain, espionage and stolen monkeys, good vs. evil, need I say more?
The characters were well written with some humor thrown in, but the large number of everything under the sun schemes will keep me from returning to the series.
If you crave some bananas topped with candy corn, you may love it!
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my review copy/ OUT Sept 7, 2021
September 3, 2021
Unfortunately I have finished this book. I say unfortunately because I was having such fun reading it I didn’t want it to end. Admittedly I am probably biased but I really enjoy Mayne’s books, they are so creative and different. What I loved about this one was that it combined two of the author’s protagonists in the one story - Dr Theo Cray, computational biologist and FBI Agent Jessica Blackwood who comes from a long line of illusionists and is a master (or is that mistress) of misdirection.
This book starts with New York, well Manhattan Island, disappearing into some sort of black void. It’s like some weird electromagnetic pulse knocked out everything electronic/electric. Next we have Jessica off rescuing Theo from a prison in Myanmar (it’s a long story, just read it). She is convinced the void is the work of Michael Heywood aka The Warlock, her former nemesis who managed to escape from prison during a transfer to another facility, all very convenient.
Anyway, Jessica and Theo follow the few clues that Heywood has left in various parts of the world. We have more voids in Malaysia and Singapore, and we learn that these were initiated by a chemical reaction. We have 30 chimpanzees stolen from a Tokyo zoo. We have emancipated zombie-like people turning up in the Ukraine. Wherever Heywood has led them, they seem to be a few steps behind. But one thing is for sure Heywood has got a devious plan and the means to make it possible - if only they could work out what it is!
Andrew Mayne’s imagination must be an interesting place as he dreams up these wonderfully complex plots. And it was complex, with many moving parts so you do need to concentrate. Also there’s quite a lot of science (or pseudo science?) explained. I’m no expert but I do have a logical brain and it all sounded very plausible to me. If that sort thing doesn’t appeal you may not be the right audience but I certainly lapped it up. Theo is a wonderful character, maybe too clever for his own good and he is given to going off on tangents. Jessica is whip smart. But these two really have to pull a rabbit out of a hat to bring down the evil mastermind that is Heywood, or can they?
I would love to see these two working together again. They are very strong individual personalities but make a formidable team and there may just be some sparks between them but please, Andrew, nothing too mushy. Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the much appreciated ARC which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
This book starts with New York, well Manhattan Island, disappearing into some sort of black void. It’s like some weird electromagnetic pulse knocked out everything electronic/electric. Next we have Jessica off rescuing Theo from a prison in Myanmar (it’s a long story, just read it). She is convinced the void is the work of Michael Heywood aka The Warlock, her former nemesis who managed to escape from prison during a transfer to another facility, all very convenient.
Anyway, Jessica and Theo follow the few clues that Heywood has left in various parts of the world. We have more voids in Malaysia and Singapore, and we learn that these were initiated by a chemical reaction. We have 30 chimpanzees stolen from a Tokyo zoo. We have emancipated zombie-like people turning up in the Ukraine. Wherever Heywood has led them, they seem to be a few steps behind. But one thing is for sure Heywood has got a devious plan and the means to make it possible - if only they could work out what it is!
Andrew Mayne’s imagination must be an interesting place as he dreams up these wonderfully complex plots. And it was complex, with many moving parts so you do need to concentrate. Also there’s quite a lot of science (or pseudo science?) explained. I’m no expert but I do have a logical brain and it all sounded very plausible to me. If that sort thing doesn’t appeal you may not be the right audience but I certainly lapped it up. Theo is a wonderful character, maybe too clever for his own good and he is given to going off on tangents. Jessica is whip smart. But these two really have to pull a rabbit out of a hat to bring down the evil mastermind that is Heywood, or can they?
I would love to see these two working together again. They are very strong individual personalities but make a formidable team and there may just be some sparks between them but please, Andrew, nothing too mushy. Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the much appreciated ARC which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
August 2, 2021
Darkness fell on Manhattan like "Lights Out" at your favorite neighborhood pub. Quick and seemingly without warning.
Now you see it. Now you don't. And it's happening in Seoul and Singapore as well. No explanations. No threatening ransome notes online. Just a quickly drifting fog that encases everything in its pathway. A massive blackout lasting over 12 hours. An act of terrorism? Stay tuned....
Special Agent Jessica Blackwood is currently an instructor at the famous FBI Academy in Quantico. Andrew Mayne gives us snippets of her sharp-ended dialogue with her students. She's the real deal and always on top of her game. She's been called in to assist in sifting through the aftermath of this massive blackout in which someone is hellbent on destroying the electrical grid and the microprocessors. But she needs a bit of backup. That's gonna take some creativity. Good on Blackwood to search it out.
And the search takes her to Myanmar where Dr. Theo Cray, brilliant computational biologist, is being held in a prison there. Theo has been subjected to waterboarding and torture for vaccinating the locals without government approval. Blackwood pulls every trick out of the hat in order to have Theo released. Getting him on a plane out of the country will take us on one wild and crazy ride.
Andrew Mayne does a brilliant combo here with Theo Cray and Jessica Blackwood joining forces in order to outsmart the highly intelligent Michael Heywood known as The Warlock. Heywood was locked tight into a prison facility but made a quick escape during a prison transfer. Both Cray and Blackwood suspect Heywood but proving it is going to take the best of what they have together.
Mastermind is a fascinating jaunt into the vastness of the internet with those multitudes of agencies sworn to protect and those sworn to destroy top secret intelligence. It's a battle of the minds and its aftershocks. Could there be a mole or multiples engaged in computer espionage?
Mayne always rattles our cages with possibilities out there. Some within this reading will freak you out at their current presence rather than in a futuristic society. It's here. Oh, it's here. Can't wait for the next one lined up with this dynamic duo. Science and WooWooville all wrapped up together.
I received a copy of Mastermind through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to the talented Andrew Mayne for the opportunity.
Now you see it. Now you don't. And it's happening in Seoul and Singapore as well. No explanations. No threatening ransome notes online. Just a quickly drifting fog that encases everything in its pathway. A massive blackout lasting over 12 hours. An act of terrorism? Stay tuned....
Special Agent Jessica Blackwood is currently an instructor at the famous FBI Academy in Quantico. Andrew Mayne gives us snippets of her sharp-ended dialogue with her students. She's the real deal and always on top of her game. She's been called in to assist in sifting through the aftermath of this massive blackout in which someone is hellbent on destroying the electrical grid and the microprocessors. But she needs a bit of backup. That's gonna take some creativity. Good on Blackwood to search it out.
And the search takes her to Myanmar where Dr. Theo Cray, brilliant computational biologist, is being held in a prison there. Theo has been subjected to waterboarding and torture for vaccinating the locals without government approval. Blackwood pulls every trick out of the hat in order to have Theo released. Getting him on a plane out of the country will take us on one wild and crazy ride.
Andrew Mayne does a brilliant combo here with Theo Cray and Jessica Blackwood joining forces in order to outsmart the highly intelligent Michael Heywood known as The Warlock. Heywood was locked tight into a prison facility but made a quick escape during a prison transfer. Both Cray and Blackwood suspect Heywood but proving it is going to take the best of what they have together.
Mastermind is a fascinating jaunt into the vastness of the internet with those multitudes of agencies sworn to protect and those sworn to destroy top secret intelligence. It's a battle of the minds and its aftershocks. Could there be a mole or multiples engaged in computer espionage?
Mayne always rattles our cages with possibilities out there. Some within this reading will freak you out at their current presence rather than in a futuristic society. It's here. Oh, it's here. Can't wait for the next one lined up with this dynamic duo. Science and WooWooville all wrapped up together.
I received a copy of Mastermind through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to the talented Andrew Mayne for the opportunity.
July 29, 2021
I have read the previous Theo Cray series and enjoyed them. I was unaware that Mayne had also written a series involving Jessica Blackwood. This is the first book to bring the two together. The “mastermind” of the title apparently was in the previous Blackwood books.
This was just too over the top for me. Think James Bond or Die Hard evil genius trying to destroy the world kind of crazy plot line. Mayne seems to understand just how crazy it all is and has a little fun. As he writes it’s like “Batman villain comic-book plots”. Or later, “ trying to understand if this is a movie plot or a real thing.” In fact, while I found the plot totally bonkers, I did really enjoy Mayne’s humor. And every so often, he even threw in a little deep philosophy.
It is a mile a minute pace as Cray connects with Jessica Blackwood, an FBI special agent. It was interesting to have the super hero Bruce Willis type character actually be a woman. They’re both interesting characters and Mayne does a decent job of fleshing them both out.
As the story progresses, it does calm down somewhat from the torrid pace at the beginning. But that doesn’t mean it becomes any more believable.
I won’t bother going back to read the earlier Blackwood books but will continue to seek out Mayne’s other series.
My thanks to netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book.
This was just too over the top for me. Think James Bond or Die Hard evil genius trying to destroy the world kind of crazy plot line. Mayne seems to understand just how crazy it all is and has a little fun. As he writes it’s like “Batman villain comic-book plots”. Or later, “ trying to understand if this is a movie plot or a real thing.” In fact, while I found the plot totally bonkers, I did really enjoy Mayne’s humor. And every so often, he even threw in a little deep philosophy.
It is a mile a minute pace as Cray connects with Jessica Blackwood, an FBI special agent. It was interesting to have the super hero Bruce Willis type character actually be a woman. They’re both interesting characters and Mayne does a decent job of fleshing them both out.
As the story progresses, it does calm down somewhat from the torrid pace at the beginning. But that doesn’t mean it becomes any more believable.
I won’t bother going back to read the earlier Blackwood books but will continue to seek out Mayne’s other series.
My thanks to netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book.
August 24, 2021
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Andrew Mayne, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
After developing some strong series, Andrew Mayne has tried something few authors dare to attempt. In this novel, he’s combined the power of FBI Agent Jessica Blackwood—former magician and illusionist—with the analytical prowess of Dr. Theo Cray, a computational biologist. These two protagonists have done amazing things on their own, but when combined, the story takes on an entirely new depth and excitement. After Manhattan appears to disappear in plain sight, Jessica Blackwood is called to the scene, hoping that she can deduce what’s going on. She’s baffled, but wonders if her nemesis, Michael Heywood, could be behind it. Many within the Intelligence community have a list of individuals who may have assisted Heywood in his plan, including one Dr. Theo Cray. Blackwood travels around the world to find him, which only leads to more ‘blackout’ moments as they spend time in Asia. What follows is a series of events that neither Cray nor Blackwood can explain, though it all points to trouble, particularly if Michael Heywood is involved. A chilling tale that is full of thought-provoking moments, showing just how sharp Andre Mayne’s writing can be.
While she has grown up loving magic, even Jessica Blackwood cannot fathom what’s happened when she is called out to help find Manhattan. Having disappeared in some form of electronic pulse, combined with a fog, the city seems too have been carved from the map. Everyone has Michael Heywood—The Warlock—on their minds as a possible suspect, with his recent escape from custody. However, he could not have done it alone. Many suspects are bandied about, but there’s one that catches Jessica’s eye, Dr. Theo Cray.
After travelling to the far side fo the world, Blackwood locates the doctor, who’s been trying to vaccinate local population so they are not murdered by their own government. While noble in his actions, Cray is not seen as a hero by many and has been tossed in a putrid jail cell. Blackwood is able to help him and uses her own form of deception to get him out of the country, while explaining about Manhattan. When two more ‘events’ occur in Asia, both Blackwood and Cray decide to stay in the region to work through what’s going on.
It’s soon clear that the ‘Void’ moments are only a distraction for what’s really going on, the theft of massive amounts of data. While Blackwood and Cray cannot understand what it’s for, this has Michael Heywood written all over it. They undercover some truly horrible science experiments in both Thailand and Ukraine, which could possibly open up new and disturbing outcomes, but the data is not comprehensive enough to offer any concrete answers.
Returning to the US, Cray and Blackwood must jump through some Intelligence hoops to remain on the case, while being goaded by Heywood to decipher what he has in mind. Slowly, but intentionally, they make some progress and learn that something huge is in the works, a plan that would truly help Michael Heywood shed his ‘Warlock’ moniker for another... Mastermind! A captivating novel that had me guessing at every page.
Since stumbling upon Andrew Mayne, I have learned so very much about a wide variety of subjects, whether it be magic, biology, or even police sleuthing underwater. Mayne is so full of ideas and means by which crime can be solved, allowing his books to open new pathways within the genre while keeping his fans entertained throughout. This protagonist amalgamation was ingenious, something I often encourage authors of multiple series to attempt. The premise was strong, working well alongside the novel’s pace and constant revelations.
One essential area in a book is its characters and how they come to life on the page. With established stories for both Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray, it was less about building them up, but sustaining what series fans knew about them. Working alongside one another, it is the character chemistry that is essential, something that Mayne did really well. Neither knew much about the other, allowing for some brief mentions of their respective backstories, but it is the strong connectivity that kept the book going and how they are able to feed off one another, developing themselves as individuals and a unit simultaneously.
While there were many characters who helped move the story along, it was the science that stole the show in many regards. Mayne has never shied away from analysis of events through different lenses and this book was full of that. Exploring biology, computer analytics, virology, and even some currency issues, Mayne floods the narrative with ideas that could spark curiosity amongst readers. I found myself lost in the discussion at times, though was able to surmise some of what was being said, through poignant questions the characters asked throughout the discussion.
There is so much going on within this book, it is difficult to determine where I ought to begin. The premise of the piece was quite strong and kept things moving from the outset. Mayne may appear to be taking things in one direction, only to steer them on a completely opposite pathway before too long. The narrative gained momentum throughout and kept me wanting to turn a few more pages. Chapters of varying lengths kept the story on track and left things dangling at the right times, forcing the reader to push onwards to satiate their curiosity. While the science was intense at times, it all came into perspective and Mayne did a wonderful job of keeping the reader engaged and informed. I can see this Blackwood/Cray partnership being one that I will enjoy, as Andrew Mayne keeps the stories coming.
Kudos, Mr. Mayne, on this stellar collaboration between two of your key protagonists. There’s a lot more to explore and you are sure to impress many of your series fans.
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/ma...
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
After developing some strong series, Andrew Mayne has tried something few authors dare to attempt. In this novel, he’s combined the power of FBI Agent Jessica Blackwood—former magician and illusionist—with the analytical prowess of Dr. Theo Cray, a computational biologist. These two protagonists have done amazing things on their own, but when combined, the story takes on an entirely new depth and excitement. After Manhattan appears to disappear in plain sight, Jessica Blackwood is called to the scene, hoping that she can deduce what’s going on. She’s baffled, but wonders if her nemesis, Michael Heywood, could be behind it. Many within the Intelligence community have a list of individuals who may have assisted Heywood in his plan, including one Dr. Theo Cray. Blackwood travels around the world to find him, which only leads to more ‘blackout’ moments as they spend time in Asia. What follows is a series of events that neither Cray nor Blackwood can explain, though it all points to trouble, particularly if Michael Heywood is involved. A chilling tale that is full of thought-provoking moments, showing just how sharp Andre Mayne’s writing can be.
While she has grown up loving magic, even Jessica Blackwood cannot fathom what’s happened when she is called out to help find Manhattan. Having disappeared in some form of electronic pulse, combined with a fog, the city seems too have been carved from the map. Everyone has Michael Heywood—The Warlock—on their minds as a possible suspect, with his recent escape from custody. However, he could not have done it alone. Many suspects are bandied about, but there’s one that catches Jessica’s eye, Dr. Theo Cray.
After travelling to the far side fo the world, Blackwood locates the doctor, who’s been trying to vaccinate local population so they are not murdered by their own government. While noble in his actions, Cray is not seen as a hero by many and has been tossed in a putrid jail cell. Blackwood is able to help him and uses her own form of deception to get him out of the country, while explaining about Manhattan. When two more ‘events’ occur in Asia, both Blackwood and Cray decide to stay in the region to work through what’s going on.
It’s soon clear that the ‘Void’ moments are only a distraction for what’s really going on, the theft of massive amounts of data. While Blackwood and Cray cannot understand what it’s for, this has Michael Heywood written all over it. They undercover some truly horrible science experiments in both Thailand and Ukraine, which could possibly open up new and disturbing outcomes, but the data is not comprehensive enough to offer any concrete answers.
Returning to the US, Cray and Blackwood must jump through some Intelligence hoops to remain on the case, while being goaded by Heywood to decipher what he has in mind. Slowly, but intentionally, they make some progress and learn that something huge is in the works, a plan that would truly help Michael Heywood shed his ‘Warlock’ moniker for another... Mastermind! A captivating novel that had me guessing at every page.
Since stumbling upon Andrew Mayne, I have learned so very much about a wide variety of subjects, whether it be magic, biology, or even police sleuthing underwater. Mayne is so full of ideas and means by which crime can be solved, allowing his books to open new pathways within the genre while keeping his fans entertained throughout. This protagonist amalgamation was ingenious, something I often encourage authors of multiple series to attempt. The premise was strong, working well alongside the novel’s pace and constant revelations.
One essential area in a book is its characters and how they come to life on the page. With established stories for both Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray, it was less about building them up, but sustaining what series fans knew about them. Working alongside one another, it is the character chemistry that is essential, something that Mayne did really well. Neither knew much about the other, allowing for some brief mentions of their respective backstories, but it is the strong connectivity that kept the book going and how they are able to feed off one another, developing themselves as individuals and a unit simultaneously.
While there were many characters who helped move the story along, it was the science that stole the show in many regards. Mayne has never shied away from analysis of events through different lenses and this book was full of that. Exploring biology, computer analytics, virology, and even some currency issues, Mayne floods the narrative with ideas that could spark curiosity amongst readers. I found myself lost in the discussion at times, though was able to surmise some of what was being said, through poignant questions the characters asked throughout the discussion.
There is so much going on within this book, it is difficult to determine where I ought to begin. The premise of the piece was quite strong and kept things moving from the outset. Mayne may appear to be taking things in one direction, only to steer them on a completely opposite pathway before too long. The narrative gained momentum throughout and kept me wanting to turn a few more pages. Chapters of varying lengths kept the story on track and left things dangling at the right times, forcing the reader to push onwards to satiate their curiosity. While the science was intense at times, it all came into perspective and Mayne did a wonderful job of keeping the reader engaged and informed. I can see this Blackwood/Cray partnership being one that I will enjoy, as Andrew Mayne keeps the stories coming.
Kudos, Mr. Mayne, on this stellar collaboration between two of your key protagonists. There’s a lot more to explore and you are sure to impress many of your series fans.
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/ma...
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
September 10, 2021
This is the beginning of a new series bringing together characters from Mayne's two popular series.
I already know Theo from the two books I've read. But it was my first meeting with Jessica. I found her a very interesting and complicated heroine. Her remarkable skills brilliantly complemented Theo's extraordinary mind. It is an amazing sight to have two such wonderful minds working together to solve a complicated case. It was a lot of fun.
I think that they make an excellent pair. I really like the dynamics between them. And that they work well together in some areas and a little worse in others. That they still have to get to know each other. It added a bit of realism to the story and another interesting dimension. It was also nice to see Theo through the eyes of another person who is also extraordinary on her own.
Usually, I don't like multiple POVs, but in this case it was fine for me. The book is divided into parts that are told alternately by Theo and Jessica. This makes you spend roughly the same amount of time with each of the main characters. And it worked really well. I felt that the point of view changed at the most appropriate moment - when one character can tell you more than the other. And that it's not just there to slow down history and build tension.
The pace of this book is very fast. The book begins with a strong scene and then the story does not slow down for a moment. The author is very talented in holding the attention of the reader. He can surprise you with many ideas. I loved how deeply embedded in the modern world the events in this book are. This book is almost a technothriller. Both the villains and Jessica and Theo use some top-notch technology. And even the main threat combines science and technology.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next books in this series, and in the meantime, I think I'll get to know Jessica a little better and read her series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I already know Theo from the two books I've read. But it was my first meeting with Jessica. I found her a very interesting and complicated heroine. Her remarkable skills brilliantly complemented Theo's extraordinary mind. It is an amazing sight to have two such wonderful minds working together to solve a complicated case. It was a lot of fun.
I think that they make an excellent pair. I really like the dynamics between them. And that they work well together in some areas and a little worse in others. That they still have to get to know each other. It added a bit of realism to the story and another interesting dimension. It was also nice to see Theo through the eyes of another person who is also extraordinary on her own.
Usually, I don't like multiple POVs, but in this case it was fine for me. The book is divided into parts that are told alternately by Theo and Jessica. This makes you spend roughly the same amount of time with each of the main characters. And it worked really well. I felt that the point of view changed at the most appropriate moment - when one character can tell you more than the other. And that it's not just there to slow down history and build tension.
The pace of this book is very fast. The book begins with a strong scene and then the story does not slow down for a moment. The author is very talented in holding the attention of the reader. He can surprise you with many ideas. I loved how deeply embedded in the modern world the events in this book are. This book is almost a technothriller. Both the villains and Jessica and Theo use some top-notch technology. And even the main threat combines science and technology.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next books in this series, and in the meantime, I think I'll get to know Jessica a little better and read her series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2022
Special agent Jessica Blackwood is called from her self-defense teaching position at the FBI bureau to go back out into the field with a small team to investigate a major blackout in Manhattan, NY. When they finally get close by helicopter they find they will have to achieve other means to get inside the city because anything electrical will shut down immediately outside the perimeters including air traffic. The bureau soon finds out that Korea also has a major shutdown taking place in Seoul., so now Jessica's job is to find one of the scientists on the terrorist plot list and retrieve all the information from him to find out who and what is behind these devastating blackouts while more cities around the world are being targeted and for what deadly purpose is really behind these blackouts that have probably been employed as a cover-up for a deadlier event that may already be in progress and millions of lives could be at stake if the FBI and the CIA and other secretive black ops don't hurry to discover who and where this Mastermind is hiding!
When Jessica finds her target Dr. Theo Cray, he is not what she expected, he has been held in a prison in a horrid prison for quite awhile (thinking he will die there) and the man looks like a walking corpse. How could this man who is at almost death's door and not having human contact for weeks or months be responsible for the world crisis that is starting to take place and while Jessica interrogates him as well as saving the life of the unusual and strange scientist, she will soon find out that whoever is behind these major devastating events planted Dr.Cray's name on the list because they are afraid this scientist will discover their identity and interfere in their ultimate plot while Jessica will find that she also plays a major role in this devastaing scheme and will become a major target of the "MASTERMIND".
This book was an unexpected and exciting action thriller. There was a little bit of everything involved in the story from the blackouts, the meetings with the high officials, the different prison situations and especially the thirty missing chimpanzees and running into a drug cartel in Mexico. Now there were some very intense moments involved where I was holding my breath. What fun! This story was a non-stop rollercoaster ride from the first page until the last chapter and I found I still couldn't get enough and I wasn't ready for the book to end since I was enjoying it so much and I was so involved and entertained with the most wonderful characters. There are some mixed reviews on this book stating it was too unbelievable and over-the-top but I whole heartedly disagree. I thought it was frightening at times and with explanations given for all the events that happened I found the story very believable and so happy that this book was fiction. Andrew Mayne has a truly imaginative and terrifyingly creative mind! (I am completely Hooked) The characters were absolutely fantastic even the the ones that played minor roles, their descriptions and storylines were just so well-written and the excitement just never stopped. I felt as if I were watching a thrilling movie only reading the scenes was so much better. Andrew Mayne really knows how to write and entertain his readers and I look forward to reading his next novel but also I now want to read all prior novels especially in this series.
I highly recommend this book to any reader who would like to go on an action adventure with a high octane blast! I want to thank the author "Andrew Mayne" and the publisher "Thomas & Mercer" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this exciting novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this exciting, action thriller a rating of 4 1/2 MESMERISING AND THRILLING 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 Stars!!
When Jessica finds her target Dr. Theo Cray, he is not what she expected, he has been held in a prison in a horrid prison for quite awhile (thinking he will die there) and the man looks like a walking corpse. How could this man who is at almost death's door and not having human contact for weeks or months be responsible for the world crisis that is starting to take place and while Jessica interrogates him as well as saving the life of the unusual and strange scientist, she will soon find out that whoever is behind these major devastating events planted Dr.Cray's name on the list because they are afraid this scientist will discover their identity and interfere in their ultimate plot while Jessica will find that she also plays a major role in this devastaing scheme and will become a major target of the "MASTERMIND".
This book was an unexpected and exciting action thriller. There was a little bit of everything involved in the story from the blackouts, the meetings with the high officials, the different prison situations and especially the thirty missing chimpanzees and running into a drug cartel in Mexico. Now there were some very intense moments involved where I was holding my breath. What fun! This story was a non-stop rollercoaster ride from the first page until the last chapter and I found I still couldn't get enough and I wasn't ready for the book to end since I was enjoying it so much and I was so involved and entertained with the most wonderful characters. There are some mixed reviews on this book stating it was too unbelievable and over-the-top but I whole heartedly disagree. I thought it was frightening at times and with explanations given for all the events that happened I found the story very believable and so happy that this book was fiction. Andrew Mayne has a truly imaginative and terrifyingly creative mind! (I am completely Hooked) The characters were absolutely fantastic even the the ones that played minor roles, their descriptions and storylines were just so well-written and the excitement just never stopped. I felt as if I were watching a thrilling movie only reading the scenes was so much better. Andrew Mayne really knows how to write and entertain his readers and I look forward to reading his next novel but also I now want to read all prior novels especially in this series.
I highly recommend this book to any reader who would like to go on an action adventure with a high octane blast! I want to thank the author "Andrew Mayne" and the publisher "Thomas & Mercer" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this exciting novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this exciting, action thriller a rating of 4 1/2 MESMERISING AND THRILLING 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 Stars!!
February 16, 2024
One of the most appealing aspects to this novel is how the initial premise seems to lead you down a path that will require a major suspension of disbelief, and then offers up a most believable story beat that demonstrates that the writer has meticulously crafted a unique plot. Immediately, I perceived that I was in the hands of a sophisticated and learned storyteller.
This was my first novel by Andrew Mayne. Everything that I have read has led me to believe that these twisty plots are typical of this author. The two main characters, Theo Cray and Jessica Blackwood have separate series where they alone get to lead, but I have to say that I like them together and would read more of their stories.
Jessica is an FBI agent who is taken straight out of a classroom where she is teaching and taken to a situation where it is believed that the villain is none other but the Warlock, a serial killer that she previously outwitted and arrested. Manhattan has disappeared in a black pall. What has caused the mist? Why are cities throughout the world also disappearing in black clouds? In order to resolve the situation, Jessica is going to need the help of a brilliant scientist that the FBI doesn't trust, but Theo Cray appears to be the only person that can get inside the psyche of the Wizard. The story is complex and twists, turns, false leads are inevitable. I really liked the story a lot.
This was my first novel by Andrew Mayne. Everything that I have read has led me to believe that these twisty plots are typical of this author. The two main characters, Theo Cray and Jessica Blackwood have separate series where they alone get to lead, but I have to say that I like them together and would read more of their stories.
Jessica is an FBI agent who is taken straight out of a classroom where she is teaching and taken to a situation where it is believed that the villain is none other but the Warlock, a serial killer that she previously outwitted and arrested. Manhattan has disappeared in a black pall. What has caused the mist? Why are cities throughout the world also disappearing in black clouds? In order to resolve the situation, Jessica is going to need the help of a brilliant scientist that the FBI doesn't trust, but Theo Cray appears to be the only person that can get inside the psyche of the Wizard. The story is complex and twists, turns, false leads are inevitable. I really liked the story a lot.
June 11, 2025
Characters are not too lovable. Perhaps they improve later.
March 17, 2021
Bonkers. Absolutely bonkers (but in a good way)
I’ve read and enjoyed Andrew Mayne novels in the past but this is unfortunately my first with either Jessica Blackwood or Theo Cray in it. I have some serious back reading to do from this author now.
I went in to this again blind, a recent common trait for me and picked it purely based on the author.
Think of it having a mad Bond like villain looking for world dominance but, much more sinister and grown up than Bond fair.
A story that takes you around the world, involves huge dark cloud that envelope cities, stolen chimpanzees, human experimentation, corruption, 21st century cyber espionage. Sound bonkers enough for you?
I had an absolute blast reading this. The two main characters are fantastic. The story is way out there. After reading it I had to check my kitchen sink was still there such was the volume of ideas and scenarios thrown at this.
But it all worked beautifully to make a hugely enjoyable, at times very dark read.
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
I’ve read and enjoyed Andrew Mayne novels in the past but this is unfortunately my first with either Jessica Blackwood or Theo Cray in it. I have some serious back reading to do from this author now.
I went in to this again blind, a recent common trait for me and picked it purely based on the author.
Think of it having a mad Bond like villain looking for world dominance but, much more sinister and grown up than Bond fair.
A story that takes you around the world, involves huge dark cloud that envelope cities, stolen chimpanzees, human experimentation, corruption, 21st century cyber espionage. Sound bonkers enough for you?
I had an absolute blast reading this. The two main characters are fantastic. The story is way out there. After reading it I had to check my kitchen sink was still there such was the volume of ideas and scenarios thrown at this.
But it all worked beautifully to make a hugely enjoyable, at times very dark read.
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
Read
November 6, 2021DNF The book read like a comic book. After a hundred pages I gave up. This is only my opinion. I will not be rating or reviewing.
September 9, 2021
4.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2021/09/09/...
Guess who’s back, and not alone this time? Our favorite computation biologist Theo Cray has resurfaced from when we last saw him at the end of Dark Pattern, the fourth book in The Naturalist series, but now he is joined by Jessica Blackwood, the star of another one of Andrew Mayne’s popular mystery thrillers. The author has said these two are his favorite characters, and even though I have not read the Jessica Blackwood books yet, I know enough about them and the protagonist’s reputation that when I first heard about Mastermind, I could hardly wait to get my hands on this opener to a new spinoff series featuring this brilliant partnership.
It was just another typical evening in New York City when the story opens, full of the regular hustle and bustle of sightseeing tourists and residents hurrying home from work. Without warning, all of it comes to a screeching halt as a mysterious storm descends upon Manhattan, plunging everything into darkness. Engulfed in a thick warm fog, the entire island looks to have disappeared, leaving a dark vast void in its wake. Initial attempts to reach those within the area have been met with failure, owing to the fact that the storm had knocked out all electricity and cell service.
FBI Special Agent Jessica Blackwood, having dealt with weird, difficult cases before, is immediately called to the scene. Surveying the effects of the storm, Jessica knows right away that this had to be a deliberate attack. The proficiency, trickery and sheer showmanship behind the act are the hallmarks of her old nemesis, the serial killer and cult leader Michael Heywood, also known as the Warlock. To Jessica, it all just seems so obvious, especially in light of Heywood’s recent escape from prison, but for some reason, no one else seems interested in heading down this investigative path, and it’s driving her crazy.
Meanwhile, in a prison in Myanmar where he had been captured by the local government for trying to distribute unauthorized medical aid to their people, Theo Cray has been starved and ill-treated for months. Little did he know, his name had come up as a person of interest in the probe into the New York City incident. Only when Jessica Blackwood shows up to his rescue does he find out all about what happened with the storm, and having followed the news of the Warlock closely, he understands why she has reason to suspect Heywood, and the danger they are all in now if her suspicions turn out to be true. As more cities start going dark, falling victim to the phenomenon now being called the Void, Theo and Jessica must race against the clock to track down a psychotic genius and put a stop to whatever he has planned.
Having been thoroughly preoccupied with Mayne’s Underwater Investigative Unit as of late, which is his new detective series that is far tamer in comparison, I hadn’t realized how much I missed the wilder, over-the-top scenarios that are more characteristic of The Naturalist books until I started reading Mastermind! Oh, Theo, never change. From cities seemingly vanishing into thin air to a terrifying battle with a troop of rampaging chimps, there appears to be no limits as to how crazy things will get. Still, if you’ve read the author before, then you should be no stranger to his style. You should also know that there’s always method to the madness, some clarity to the chaos whenever we get into the science and technology in his books. Many of the scenarios that Theo and Jessica find themselves in might be on the extreme side, but very often too there’s sound research behind the concepts.
I am also loving the dynamic and even the romantic tensions between our two protagonists. I suppose it’s only natural to bring the two of them into an eventual relationship, but I was surprised how well it worked for me, considering how Theo isn’t typically someone you would call boyfriend material (just look at how his last relationship imploded to see what I mean). Jessica, who strikes me as someone whose passions run high, wouldn’t seem like a good match for him at first glance, but I’m pleasantly surprised to far, if not completely onboard. The next book in the series will reveal more, I hope, and in the meantime, I am also enjoying their working partnership a lot. Whereas Theo can sometimes become fixated and myopic on a certain subject, I’ve noticed Jessica tends to see the full picture. Whereas he can be overanalytical, she is also better at reading the overall mood. And while they’re both very intelligent and used to fighting their way out of trouble, he’s more book smart and she’s more street smart. Overall, their strengths complement each other very well, and together they make a formidable mystery solving team.
Finally, I happy to say it’s not compulsory to read any of The Naturalist books or the Jessica Blackwood series before tackling Mastermind, because I think the author catches you pretty well. But, speaking as someone who’s only familiar with Theo Cray before this, having knowledge of at least one of the characters would probably help. After reading this novel though, I’m interested in picking up Jessica’s books now more than ever. Angel Killer has already been on my reading list for a while, and I guess I really shouldn’t wait any longer.
All in all, Mastermind was pretty awesome. Andrew Mayne is a must-read author for me, and not only is Theo Cray my favorite of his creations, he’s probably also one of my favorite fictional characters of all time. To see him paired up with Jessica Blackwood was a treat, and I am glad Mayne already has plans to have these two together again for a sequel, and hopefully there will be even more adventures after that.
Audiobook Comments: Jennifer O’Donnell and Will Damron take on narrator duties here, reading Jessica Blackwood and Theo Cray’s parts respectively, and they are truly spectacular as a team. The story’s fast pacing, delicious intrigue and non-stop action elements also make this audiobook a highly engaging and enjoyable listen. Absolutely recommended.
Guess who’s back, and not alone this time? Our favorite computation biologist Theo Cray has resurfaced from when we last saw him at the end of Dark Pattern, the fourth book in The Naturalist series, but now he is joined by Jessica Blackwood, the star of another one of Andrew Mayne’s popular mystery thrillers. The author has said these two are his favorite characters, and even though I have not read the Jessica Blackwood books yet, I know enough about them and the protagonist’s reputation that when I first heard about Mastermind, I could hardly wait to get my hands on this opener to a new spinoff series featuring this brilliant partnership.
It was just another typical evening in New York City when the story opens, full of the regular hustle and bustle of sightseeing tourists and residents hurrying home from work. Without warning, all of it comes to a screeching halt as a mysterious storm descends upon Manhattan, plunging everything into darkness. Engulfed in a thick warm fog, the entire island looks to have disappeared, leaving a dark vast void in its wake. Initial attempts to reach those within the area have been met with failure, owing to the fact that the storm had knocked out all electricity and cell service.
FBI Special Agent Jessica Blackwood, having dealt with weird, difficult cases before, is immediately called to the scene. Surveying the effects of the storm, Jessica knows right away that this had to be a deliberate attack. The proficiency, trickery and sheer showmanship behind the act are the hallmarks of her old nemesis, the serial killer and cult leader Michael Heywood, also known as the Warlock. To Jessica, it all just seems so obvious, especially in light of Heywood’s recent escape from prison, but for some reason, no one else seems interested in heading down this investigative path, and it’s driving her crazy.
Meanwhile, in a prison in Myanmar where he had been captured by the local government for trying to distribute unauthorized medical aid to their people, Theo Cray has been starved and ill-treated for months. Little did he know, his name had come up as a person of interest in the probe into the New York City incident. Only when Jessica Blackwood shows up to his rescue does he find out all about what happened with the storm, and having followed the news of the Warlock closely, he understands why she has reason to suspect Heywood, and the danger they are all in now if her suspicions turn out to be true. As more cities start going dark, falling victim to the phenomenon now being called the Void, Theo and Jessica must race against the clock to track down a psychotic genius and put a stop to whatever he has planned.
Having been thoroughly preoccupied with Mayne’s Underwater Investigative Unit as of late, which is his new detective series that is far tamer in comparison, I hadn’t realized how much I missed the wilder, over-the-top scenarios that are more characteristic of The Naturalist books until I started reading Mastermind! Oh, Theo, never change. From cities seemingly vanishing into thin air to a terrifying battle with a troop of rampaging chimps, there appears to be no limits as to how crazy things will get. Still, if you’ve read the author before, then you should be no stranger to his style. You should also know that there’s always method to the madness, some clarity to the chaos whenever we get into the science and technology in his books. Many of the scenarios that Theo and Jessica find themselves in might be on the extreme side, but very often too there’s sound research behind the concepts.
I am also loving the dynamic and even the romantic tensions between our two protagonists. I suppose it’s only natural to bring the two of them into an eventual relationship, but I was surprised how well it worked for me, considering how Theo isn’t typically someone you would call boyfriend material (just look at how his last relationship imploded to see what I mean). Jessica, who strikes me as someone whose passions run high, wouldn’t seem like a good match for him at first glance, but I’m pleasantly surprised to far, if not completely onboard. The next book in the series will reveal more, I hope, and in the meantime, I am also enjoying their working partnership a lot. Whereas Theo can sometimes become fixated and myopic on a certain subject, I’ve noticed Jessica tends to see the full picture. Whereas he can be overanalytical, she is also better at reading the overall mood. And while they’re both very intelligent and used to fighting their way out of trouble, he’s more book smart and she’s more street smart. Overall, their strengths complement each other very well, and together they make a formidable mystery solving team.
Finally, I happy to say it’s not compulsory to read any of The Naturalist books or the Jessica Blackwood series before tackling Mastermind, because I think the author catches you pretty well. But, speaking as someone who’s only familiar with Theo Cray before this, having knowledge of at least one of the characters would probably help. After reading this novel though, I’m interested in picking up Jessica’s books now more than ever. Angel Killer has already been on my reading list for a while, and I guess I really shouldn’t wait any longer.
All in all, Mastermind was pretty awesome. Andrew Mayne is a must-read author for me, and not only is Theo Cray my favorite of his creations, he’s probably also one of my favorite fictional characters of all time. To see him paired up with Jessica Blackwood was a treat, and I am glad Mayne already has plans to have these two together again for a sequel, and hopefully there will be even more adventures after that.
Audiobook Comments: Jennifer O’Donnell and Will Damron take on narrator duties here, reading Jessica Blackwood and Theo Cray’s parts respectively, and they are truly spectacular as a team. The story’s fast pacing, delicious intrigue and non-stop action elements also make this audiobook a highly engaging and enjoyable listen. Absolutely recommended.
April 28, 2022
"The voids are just a warm-up for something bigger. To discover it—to stop it—Jessica and Theo must descend into the darkest of shadows—and minds."
Blurb: A mysterious electrical storm plunges Manhattan into darkness. As a strange, smothering fog rolls in, all communication crashes. In the blink of an eye, the island seems to vanish into a void.
FBI special agent Jessica Blackwood and brilliant scientist Dr. Theo Cray know this isn’t a freak accident.
My opinion: WOW! I loved this book!! As I read Mastermind, more than once I found myself thinking the author has a brilliant mind! What a plot!! There was plenty of suspense, and yet, more than once I found myself smiling and chuckling. I absolutely loved Jessica and Theo equally. Together, they are unstoppable!
My only suggestion to the author would be to have the characters' names on their chapters.
BIG thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC!
Blurb: A mysterious electrical storm plunges Manhattan into darkness. As a strange, smothering fog rolls in, all communication crashes. In the blink of an eye, the island seems to vanish into a void.
FBI special agent Jessica Blackwood and brilliant scientist Dr. Theo Cray know this isn’t a freak accident.
My opinion: WOW! I loved this book!! As I read Mastermind, more than once I found myself thinking the author has a brilliant mind! What a plot!! There was plenty of suspense, and yet, more than once I found myself smiling and chuckling. I absolutely loved Jessica and Theo equally. Together, they are unstoppable!
My only suggestion to the author would be to have the characters' names on their chapters.
BIG thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC!
February 26, 2023
Andrew Mayne brings Theo Cray (computational biologist) and Jessica Blackwood (magician turned FBI agent) together in this entertaining, in a comic book sort of way, novel. The story opens in New York city with a void enveloping Manhattan plunging the city into darkness. An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack. Terrorists? All of the agencies come together to solve the attack. The FBI brings in Jessica.
When Jessica learns that her nemesis, Michael Haywood (aka Warlock), has escaped from prison she knows he is behind the void attacks. Next stop she is in Myanmar where she frees Theo from a jail. Just in time as there are void attacks in Seoul and Singapore.
If void attacks on cities doesn't keep you entertained there are killer chimpanzees and zombies thrown in. And Jessica and Theo are right there. There is a lot going on in this globe trotting story. It was hard at times to remember the void attacks and the Warlock. But it doesn't take long before he is back and he and Jessica have their showdown. This time with Theo by Jessica's side.
Haywood is not the only baddie in this story and it did not take me long to identify who it is. This was an entertaining story. Not very believable but okay. I like the protagonists and the dynamics between them. I will probably read the next book with them, The Final Equinox but I'm in no hurry.
When Jessica learns that her nemesis, Michael Haywood (aka Warlock), has escaped from prison she knows he is behind the void attacks. Next stop she is in Myanmar where she frees Theo from a jail. Just in time as there are void attacks in Seoul and Singapore.
If void attacks on cities doesn't keep you entertained there are killer chimpanzees and zombies thrown in. And Jessica and Theo are right there. There is a lot going on in this globe trotting story. It was hard at times to remember the void attacks and the Warlock. But it doesn't take long before he is back and he and Jessica have their showdown. This time with Theo by Jessica's side.
Haywood is not the only baddie in this story and it did not take me long to identify who it is. This was an entertaining story. Not very believable but okay. I like the protagonists and the dynamics between them. I will probably read the next book with them, The Final Equinox but I'm in no hurry.
November 7, 2021
My thanks, 'once again" to Thomas and Mercer, Andrew Mayne and Netgalley. This story just didn't work for me. That's not to say that it wasn't brilliant. O.K. that's just a durned lie! The attraction between Theo and Jess is um...good? I even felt the heat! But, they are two separate beings who could never connect for too long! So? This was a fine and boring story. I was not engaged, and I like Jessica just fine. But, no apologies! I'm here for Theo Cray! I'm sure that Mayne has great books out there. I'm not interested. Same reason that I don't watch any magic shows. I hate lies and falsehoods. I always search for a truth.
September 7, 2021
Mastermind is the first instalment in the Theo Cray and Jessica Blackwood series in which two of Mayne’s main protagonists and series leads from his other novels, FBI Agent Blackwood, who is a former magician and illusionist, and computer expert and bona fide genius Dr Cray team up together. Jessica has recently been leading a course run by the FBI in which she teaches both offensive and defensive skills to colleagues who may need them, however, she, as a talented and indispensable agent, is called back to fieldwork when her sworn enemy, convicted serial killer Michael Heywood, escapes from a high-security prison mere days before the entirety of New York City is blanketed in a cloud cover so thick it looks like the city has vanished, and, of course, this has tripped all the electrical grids in the area too meaning there is nothing but darkness. Blackwood isn't exactly sure where to start, but she begins to work alongside those at the newly formed Information Data Retrieval agency, although even they have few clues or reliable leads to go on.
When more cities around the globe start to fall into the dense fog too, she realises she desperately needs the help of computational biologist, idiosyncrat and all-around brainiac Dr Theo Cray who is currently incarcerated inside a Myanmar jail as contrary to what many others believe, Jessica feels in her gut that this is much more insidious than a simple weather phenomenon. Her first step is to break him out of prison to prove he isn't working alongside Heywood who is a master hacker himself. Then once she knows Theo can be trusted, they pursue Heywood in an attempt to uncover his nefarious schemes to save further cities from lights out. This is a compelling and unusual thriller, and although I wouldn't ordinarily opt for crime fiction with fantasy or supernatural elements, Mayne crafted everything superbly well. There is plenty of drama, danger, intrigue, twists, turns, red herrings and intense suspense, and the urgency with which they must figure this out before the world is plunged into a black void creates a palpable tension that runs throughout.
When more cities around the globe start to fall into the dense fog too, she realises she desperately needs the help of computational biologist, idiosyncrat and all-around brainiac Dr Theo Cray who is currently incarcerated inside a Myanmar jail as contrary to what many others believe, Jessica feels in her gut that this is much more insidious than a simple weather phenomenon. Her first step is to break him out of prison to prove he isn't working alongside Heywood who is a master hacker himself. Then once she knows Theo can be trusted, they pursue Heywood in an attempt to uncover his nefarious schemes to save further cities from lights out. This is a compelling and unusual thriller, and although I wouldn't ordinarily opt for crime fiction with fantasy or supernatural elements, Mayne crafted everything superbly well. There is plenty of drama, danger, intrigue, twists, turns, red herrings and intense suspense, and the urgency with which they must figure this out before the world is plunged into a black void creates a palpable tension that runs throughout.
March 5, 2021
Mystery
These Theo Cray mysteries involve some high concept crimes and I don't know whether to feel smarter or dumber after reading them.
Andrew Mayne brings two characters (Jessica Blackwood and Theo Cray) from their own series together in this search for the Warlock. We get introduced to the Warlock in the Jessica Blackwood books - think Sherlock Holmes' Moriarty. The Warlock, aka. Michael Heywood, has escaped custody and he cannot be anything but a suspect when all of New York City disappears in a puff of black smoke they are calling the Void. Jessica gets called back into the field by the FBI, she had been teaching recruits, but her background in magic seems helpful to this particular case.
One of her assignments is to track down Dr. Theo Cray as he is also on the short list of suspects. She finds him a prisoner in Myanmar and breaks him out of jail. At almost first glance Jessica realizes he isn't responsible. Their mutual respect and admiration for each other grows as they try to figure out the nature of the Voids and the other crimes that seem to tie in. Their efforts land them in hot water with a newly created agency IDR, which seems to have no boundaries. They also learn that the Warlock must have had insider help. Who can they trust but each other? Why is the Warlock still obsessed with Jessica and afraid of Theo?
I LOVE these mysteries by Mayne. He stretches the readers thought processes while keeping the action and storyline progressing at a rapid pace. I like both these characters and bringing them together was genius! If you like smart mysteries pick this book up. You don't have to have read The Naturalist series, or the Jessica Blackwood series to follow along. Those are great reads, though, so you should pick those up as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for my ARC of this book.
These Theo Cray mysteries involve some high concept crimes and I don't know whether to feel smarter or dumber after reading them.
Andrew Mayne brings two characters (Jessica Blackwood and Theo Cray) from their own series together in this search for the Warlock. We get introduced to the Warlock in the Jessica Blackwood books - think Sherlock Holmes' Moriarty. The Warlock, aka. Michael Heywood, has escaped custody and he cannot be anything but a suspect when all of New York City disappears in a puff of black smoke they are calling the Void. Jessica gets called back into the field by the FBI, she had been teaching recruits, but her background in magic seems helpful to this particular case.
One of her assignments is to track down Dr. Theo Cray as he is also on the short list of suspects. She finds him a prisoner in Myanmar and breaks him out of jail. At almost first glance Jessica realizes he isn't responsible. Their mutual respect and admiration for each other grows as they try to figure out the nature of the Voids and the other crimes that seem to tie in. Their efforts land them in hot water with a newly created agency IDR, which seems to have no boundaries. They also learn that the Warlock must have had insider help. Who can they trust but each other? Why is the Warlock still obsessed with Jessica and afraid of Theo?
I LOVE these mysteries by Mayne. He stretches the readers thought processes while keeping the action and storyline progressing at a rapid pace. I like both these characters and bringing them together was genius! If you like smart mysteries pick this book up. You don't have to have read The Naturalist series, or the Jessica Blackwood series to follow along. Those are great reads, though, so you should pick those up as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for my ARC of this book.
December 22, 2021
Mastermind brings together two of Andrew Mayne’s popular characters in one novel. An electrical storm in New York City starts a mystery that needs the expertise of Jessica Blackwood and Theo Cray. The storm appears to be the work of the Warlock, a serial killer. Jessica is a FBI agent with a history with the Warlock. Theo is a biologist who specializes in forensic science, and has a great track record for catching serial killers.
Mastermind is told with the alternating points of view of Jessica and Theo. Both characters are intelligent and unique. There is a quite a bit science/technology discussion in this book. The story is wild, and it makes for an entertaining read.
This is the first book that brings Jessica and Theo together. I have read The Naturalist series that features Theo, and have enjoyed all of them. I have not yet read the Jessica Blackwood series. I recommend reading Mayne’s other books, but it’s not necessary to have read any of them before reading Mastermind.
Fast-paced and exciting thriller. A good book for fans of Andrew Mayne’s other books.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Mastermind is told with the alternating points of view of Jessica and Theo. Both characters are intelligent and unique. There is a quite a bit science/technology discussion in this book. The story is wild, and it makes for an entertaining read.
This is the first book that brings Jessica and Theo together. I have read The Naturalist series that features Theo, and have enjoyed all of them. I have not yet read the Jessica Blackwood series. I recommend reading Mayne’s other books, but it’s not necessary to have read any of them before reading Mastermind.
Fast-paced and exciting thriller. A good book for fans of Andrew Mayne’s other books.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2021
4.5 stars, actually.
Despite a Twilight Zone-worthy plot that normally falls a little outside my reading matter wheelhouse, I must say I enjoyed this book overall. Another plus is that it's the first of a series, so I can look forward to the next installment.
The stars of the show are FBI Special Agent Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray, a mental genius and scientist with a shady background that makes him, shall we say, unpopular with the FBI, CIA, leaders of other countries and no doubt the families of people he admits he's killed. The equally intelligent Jessica, too, has plenty of enemies and isn't likely to make the FBI's most wanted employee list.
As this story begins, a huge portion of Manhattan suddenly goes completely dark with a foggy substance; no electricity, no Internet, no phone service and, for the FBI, no clue as to what happened or why and raising the question of whether it might happen again somewhere. When Jessica gets called in to check out the situation - and narrowly escapes death - she becomes certain that the blackout is the work of Michael Heywood, a.k.a. Warlock., who managed to escape prison not long ago. She was responsible for putting him in jail to begin with, so not only is he more than capable of concocting some kind of nefarious plan, he's got his sights trained on bringing Jessica down as well.
In fairly short order, it's determined that some kind of electromagnetic pulse short-circuited all the electronic systems, prompting the investigative teams to conclude that the blackout was an act of terrorism. Switch then to Dr. Cray, who's in Myanmar working on vaccinations and is injured. Jessica saves him, thus providing the two with a history (never mind for the present that neither totally trusts the other). But as other blackouts hit other major cities and other oddities like a large number of missing animals add mystery and danger, it's clear that Jessica needs Theo - and vice versa - to get to the bottom of things and save the free world.
Needless to say, there's plenty of intrigue and full-on action, with chapters shifting perspectives from Jessica to Theo. As the series first, it stands alone fairly well - although several references to things that happened in the past aren't fully explained and were a little confusing to me. Then I learned that there have been several books featuring Blackwood alone; no doubt that's where the references originated (but which doesn't excuse not clarifying them here).
It all comes down to an exciting conclusion that brings the possibility (as expected) for more collaboration between Jessica and Theo. As I said earlier, I'm definitely interested in reading more - and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy of this one. Good job (and oh, BTW, this would make a great movie or TV series)!
Despite a Twilight Zone-worthy plot that normally falls a little outside my reading matter wheelhouse, I must say I enjoyed this book overall. Another plus is that it's the first of a series, so I can look forward to the next installment.
The stars of the show are FBI Special Agent Jessica Blackwood and Dr. Theo Cray, a mental genius and scientist with a shady background that makes him, shall we say, unpopular with the FBI, CIA, leaders of other countries and no doubt the families of people he admits he's killed. The equally intelligent Jessica, too, has plenty of enemies and isn't likely to make the FBI's most wanted employee list.
As this story begins, a huge portion of Manhattan suddenly goes completely dark with a foggy substance; no electricity, no Internet, no phone service and, for the FBI, no clue as to what happened or why and raising the question of whether it might happen again somewhere. When Jessica gets called in to check out the situation - and narrowly escapes death - she becomes certain that the blackout is the work of Michael Heywood, a.k.a. Warlock., who managed to escape prison not long ago. She was responsible for putting him in jail to begin with, so not only is he more than capable of concocting some kind of nefarious plan, he's got his sights trained on bringing Jessica down as well.
In fairly short order, it's determined that some kind of electromagnetic pulse short-circuited all the electronic systems, prompting the investigative teams to conclude that the blackout was an act of terrorism. Switch then to Dr. Cray, who's in Myanmar working on vaccinations and is injured. Jessica saves him, thus providing the two with a history (never mind for the present that neither totally trusts the other). But as other blackouts hit other major cities and other oddities like a large number of missing animals add mystery and danger, it's clear that Jessica needs Theo - and vice versa - to get to the bottom of things and save the free world.
Needless to say, there's plenty of intrigue and full-on action, with chapters shifting perspectives from Jessica to Theo. As the series first, it stands alone fairly well - although several references to things that happened in the past aren't fully explained and were a little confusing to me. Then I learned that there have been several books featuring Blackwood alone; no doubt that's where the references originated (but which doesn't excuse not clarifying them here).
It all comes down to an exciting conclusion that brings the possibility (as expected) for more collaboration between Jessica and Theo. As I said earlier, I'm definitely interested in reading more - and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy of this one. Good job (and oh, BTW, this would make a great movie or TV series)!
March 4, 2021
In my rush to hit the "read now" button, I clocked only that this was a novel featuring Jessica Blackwood (my favorite Andrew Mayne character). I didn't even notice that it was also a novel featuring Theo Cray (my other favorite Andrew Mayne character). So yeah, this was a pretty great experience for me.
September 21, 2021
Super clever and twisty! I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy Theo branching out from the Naturalist series, but my fears were unfounded. How do zombies and warrior chimps and city blackouts contribute to a sociopathic meglomaniac ruling the world? Find out here!
November 16, 2022
3.5/5
Mastermind is an entertaining, fast-paced thriller written and structured to appeal to most readers. On one side of the barricade, we have a brilliant but sociopathic villain, and on the other, two protagonists traumatized by their past
Jessica Blackwood is a FBI legend who now teaches future agents and has retired from the field. Theo Cray is a computational biologist whose PTSD has a PTSD of its own. As expected, they must combine their skills to solve the mystery of "voids" and data thefts appearing in various cities around the world.
The story is engaging, slightly over-the-top but in a way I enjoy. I had a good time listening to it and I'm starting the sequel right now.
Mastermind is an entertaining, fast-paced thriller written and structured to appeal to most readers. On one side of the barricade, we have a brilliant but sociopathic villain, and on the other, two protagonists traumatized by their past
Jessica Blackwood is a FBI legend who now teaches future agents and has retired from the field. Theo Cray is a computational biologist whose PTSD has a PTSD of its own. As expected, they must combine their skills to solve the mystery of "voids" and data thefts appearing in various cities around the world.
The story is engaging, slightly over-the-top but in a way I enjoy. I had a good time listening to it and I'm starting the sequel right now.
September 6, 2021
I really enjoy the Theo Cray series and when I finished reading it I went through the Jessica Blackwood novels. Then I saw that this book was going to feature both characters and was very excited. It will not disappoint fans of either character. The story alternates between sections from each character's point of view and it is really interesting to see how they view each other as the story goes on. I don't think you need to have read the books in each characters series before reading this story, but it definitely adds to the understanding of Jessica and Theo's personalities and actions if you do.
This story starts when a strange emp storm shuts down Manahattan and Jessica Blackwood is convinced it is another stunt by Michael Heywood aka The Warlock.
Dr. Theo Clay's name appears on a list of possible other suspects. Everyone is reluctant to give Heywood credit and they want any other option then to have to deal with The Warlock, and Jessica is given the task to locate and evaluate if Theo has any involvement in the case. Jessica and Theo team up to pursue the clues wherever they lead, while having to carefully guard what they find from the interested government agencies because of a suspected mole.
I really want to see additional stories with the two characters working together. It was a real treat.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this e-ARC featuring two characters that I have always enjoyed.
This story starts when a strange emp storm shuts down Manahattan and Jessica Blackwood is convinced it is another stunt by Michael Heywood aka The Warlock.
Dr. Theo Clay's name appears on a list of possible other suspects. Everyone is reluctant to give Heywood credit and they want any other option then to have to deal with The Warlock, and Jessica is given the task to locate and evaluate if Theo has any involvement in the case. Jessica and Theo team up to pursue the clues wherever they lead, while having to carefully guard what they find from the interested government agencies because of a suspected mole.
I really want to see additional stories with the two characters working together. It was a real treat.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this e-ARC featuring two characters that I have always enjoyed.
November 23, 2021
So weird and over the top crazy, plus Theo chapters are from his point of view and the book skips back and forth. It seems really more of a revenge story and the "Mastermind" does get his!
The premise of an EMP is believeable and I can see it happening but some of the other storyline parts are so out there that it just muddles the main story.
I much prefer the Underwater Investigation series of books
The premise of an EMP is believeable and I can see it happening but some of the other storyline parts are so out there that it just muddles the main story.
I much prefer the Underwater Investigation series of books
September 10, 2021
OTT, Insane, Cray-Cray (see what I did there) and absolutely one of the most entertaining reads I've read all year!!!!! From EMP blackouts, to killer chimpanzees, to man made zombies, to a megalomaniac trying to control the world.....I was all in and eating up every word.
Mastermind was all that I hoped for and more. It was action packed and fast paced, with moments of depth and emotion, and lots of thrills. But most of all, it had my man, Theo Cray. As much as I love a strong, independent female character like Jessica, I was here for Theo and Andrew Mayne delivered. I had no idea how this all would end, until almost the very last sentence. Brilliant ending BTW!
This was the perfect marriage of the Naturalist series and the Jessica Blackwood novels. These two characters together was everything.
As with the preceding series, readers have to be able to set aside reality and imagine a world where the what ifs are given free reign and one huge playground. Enjoy!
Mastermind was all that I hoped for and more. It was action packed and fast paced, with moments of depth and emotion, and lots of thrills. But most of all, it had my man, Theo Cray. As much as I love a strong, independent female character like Jessica, I was here for Theo and Andrew Mayne delivered. I had no idea how this all would end, until almost the very last sentence. Brilliant ending BTW!
This was the perfect marriage of the Naturalist series and the Jessica Blackwood novels. These two characters together was everything.
As with the preceding series, readers have to be able to set aside reality and imagine a world where the what ifs are given free reign and one huge playground. Enjoy!
September 28, 2021
"If you were to ask me what’s broken in this world, I’d say it’s the amount of talent found in the places we ignore."
This was a fun twisty little read. I loved our two agents- Theo and Jessica. From their crash and burn meeting to their slowly getting to know each other and build a friendship. Their minds were so well together and I loved how they played off each other.
The plot was so wild to me - I don't read a lot of government and bioweapon espionage so the twits and turns were completely new for me. I never had any idea where the plot or the story was going. It was a great read, one that kept me flipping pages, and definitely felt like a fast read as I raced through it to know the end. I will definitely be reading book 2!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
This was a fun twisty little read. I loved our two agents- Theo and Jessica. From their crash and burn meeting to their slowly getting to know each other and build a friendship. Their minds were so well together and I loved how they played off each other.
The plot was so wild to me - I don't read a lot of government and bioweapon espionage so the twits and turns were completely new for me. I never had any idea where the plot or the story was going. It was a great read, one that kept me flipping pages, and definitely felt like a fast read as I raced through it to know the end. I will definitely be reading book 2!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
July 31, 2022
I liked this one, but I also feel like something was missing. Despite being a 1st book in a series, I wonder if it was spun off a different series, these characters seemed established and had a huge history. I thought about stopping this book to see, but I was into what was going on and didn't.
The whole book seemed like a big mental chess game between 3 people, Theo and Jessica on one side, with the bad guy on the other. There were times it seemed the bad guy won, there were times it seemed the good guys won. It all came down to the last minute, one last big move, thank goodness Theo and Jessica were smart enough in the end to do what was needed.
The whole book seemed like a big mental chess game between 3 people, Theo and Jessica on one side, with the bad guy on the other. There were times it seemed the bad guy won, there were times it seemed the good guys won. It all came down to the last minute, one last big move, thank goodness Theo and Jessica were smart enough in the end to do what was needed.
May 10, 2021
The challenge in this book is the initial pacing.
The book starts with a bang. There’s so much going on and it’s really exciting. You’re anxious to find out just what’s happening in the world and why. But then, the book slows down to a rather glacial pace.
I admit. I almost stopped reading.
However, I kept going and I’m glad I did. If you can get over that little hump, you get a truly exciting read and a plot of epic proportions – like possible end of the world as we know it proportions. The actual reason behind everything is fascinating and unexpected. I loved what the author gave us here.
I ended up thinking this was a four star read. Try to get past that slow patch – the surprises the author has in store for you are well worth it!
*ARC provided via Net Galley
January 29, 2023
This is the second series I have read by Andrew Mayne.... he draws you in! Loved it!
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