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A space-age military defense system used surreptitiously to defeat terrorist attacks on the ground creates extreme political controversy in this high-concept thriller. Dr. Harold Symes, the designer of artificial intelligence for the Guardian Orbital Defense System (GOD), a network of 104 U.S. satellites, has disappeared, leaving investigators puzzled by the “TM” notations on his calendar. Outspoken Senator Leila Kahlid-Conroy, a staunch opponent of the system, points out the possible dangers of artificial intelligence that could render GOD dangerously out of control, especially because the system satellites are often under attack by Chinese, Iranian, and Russian hackers and their nations’ anti-satellite weapons. Plus, future presidents or Space Force commanders might misuse the system with ill intent rather than protect the country from totalitarian enemies.
Thrillers are often noted for their fast-paced action, but readers will find themselves wending their way methodically through the long book despite its many fast-paced action scenes. Billed as a mystery/thriller hybrid, the slower pace leans more toward a mystery novel feel than the political and military thriller that the plot details suggest. However, the gun-and-run action, sci-fi hardware, and characterizations of special agents truly anchor the novel as a thriller. FBI Special Agent Christine Lasco is the investigator of Dr. Symes’ disappearance, and her romance with security specialist Mac Slade spices up the story. A parallel investigation by Special Agents Zack Atchley and Eve Baxter focusing upon the disappearance of a retired justice of the Supreme Court, whose calendar also has mysterious “TM” entries, will also keep readers turning pages. The writing, neither showy nor flowery, suits the genre. Overall, this is a good summer read that would translate well to the big screen.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review