Tag: Suspense

Dean Koontz’ Latest Masterpiece: ‘The Forest of Lost Souls’

‘The Forest of Lost Souls’ by Dean Koontz. Photo: Amazon

I have been a fan of Dean Koontz’ books for years because of their unique blend of suspense, horror, and philosophical depth. The characters usually face extraordinary challenges, navigating a world filled with malevolent forces and moral dilemmas. He often explores the themes of love, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil and his ability to weave humor and warmth into tense narratives adds an engaging layer, make his books thrilling and emotional. That’s why I’m so excited for his newest book “The Forest of Lost Souls” and can’t wait to read it for myself.

International bestselling author Dean Koontz was only a senior in college when he won an Atlantic Monthly fiction competition and he hasn’t stopped writing since. He is the author of “The Bad Weather Friend,” “After Death,” “The House at the End of the World,” “The Big Dark Sky,” and seventy-nine New York Times best sellers. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “America’s most popular suspense novelist,” his books have been published in thirty-eight languages and have sold over five hundred million copies worldwide. In his new book “The Forest of Lost Souls,” a fearless woman, raised in the forest, fights against a group of powerful men in a novel about good versus evil, the enduring nature of myth, and the power of love.

“The Forest of Lost Souls” – Raised in the wilderness by her late great-uncle, Vida is a young woman with an almost preternatural affinity for nature, especially for the wolves that also call the forested mountains home. Formed by hard experience, by love and loss, and by the prophecies of a fortune teller, Vida just wants peace. If only nearby Kettleton County didn’t cast such a dark shadow.

It’s where José Nochelobo, the love of Vida’s life and a cherished local hero, died in a tragic accident. That’s the official story, but Vida has reasons to doubt it. The truth can’t be contained for long. Nor can the hungry men of power in Kettleton who want something too: that Vida, like José, disappear forever. One by one they come for her, prepared to do anything to see their plans through to their evil end. Vida is no less prepared for them.

Vida, the forest, and its formidable wonders are waiting. She will not rest until goodness and order have been restored.

Cyber Intrigue and Historical Drama: George Mehok’s Debut Novel ‘Going Dark’

‘Going Dark’ is George Mehok’s new novel. Photo: Amazon

Technothrillers merge high-stakes suspense with cutting-edge technology, creating narratives that captivate readers with their intricate plots and believable scenarios. These stories often revolve around themes like cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, or advanced weaponry, reflecting contemporary fears and ethical dilemmas. Authors meticulously research scientific concepts, ensuring authenticity while weaving in thrilling action and unexpected twists. The genre explores the impact of technology on society, often showcasing characters who navigate complex moral landscapes. With their blend of realism and adrenaline, technothrillers not only entertain but also provoke thought about our rapidly evolving technological landscape and its potential consequences. It’s a gripping exploration of innovation and intrigue.

There’s a new book coming out in November that mixes technothrillers, historical fiction, and terrorism storylines: “Going Dark” by George Mehok. This debut thriller spotlights the dangers of the internet and how the past shapes our future. It is recommended for fans of Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and Stephen Hunter.

George Mehok is an author, technologist, and entrepreneur with a distinguished career in designing software and leading high-performing teams in the financial services, telecommunications, and aerospace industries. An avid storyteller, George weaves his real-world knowledge into gripping narratives, crafting thrilling plots that captivate readers. “Going Dark,” the first in Mehok’s Liberty Unit series, combines his extensive technology background with historical intrigue, presenting a captivating blend of modern-day suspense and revolutionary-era secrets. The release date is November 12, and it is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

“Going Dark” – When a sinister cyber-terrorist scheme poised to plunge America into unparalleled digital darkness surfaces, Paul Knox, a seasoned cyber forensics expert, finds himself thrust into a clandestine conflict spanning generations.

As Knox examines the intricate and dangerous web of cyber intrigue, he confronts both the mission’s high stakes and his personal demons, including the unwitting involvement of his estranged daughter, Emma. Emma becomes a central figure in a game of digital manipulation, where each move carries the potential to reshape history—and change America forever.

Intertwined with this contemporary narrative is the historical origin story of the Liberty Unit. In 1781, amidst the throes of the American Revolution, John “Jack” Jouett embarks on a perilous journey to deliver crucial encoded messages that hold the power to sway the course of the war and safeguard the life of a future American president.

In an era dominated by the internet and malevolent hackers, insidious threats lurk unseen, while the keys to triumph often lie in the past. Effortlessly blending dual timelines, “Going Dark” is a propulsive deep dive into the clandestine world of hacking and terrorism, underscoring the fragility of a society reliant on technology.

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Modern Espionage and Intrigue: ‘The Collaborators’ by Michael Idov

‘The Collaborators’ by Michael Idov will be released November 19, 2024. Photo: Amazon

Spy thrillers immerse readers in a world of espionage, intrigue, and high-stakes adventure. These gripping tales often feature skilled agents navigating a web of deception, betrayal, and covert operations. Classic elements include clandestine meetings, sophisticated technology, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Authors like John le Carré and Robert Ludlum masterfully explore the psychological complexities of their characters, blending action with moral dilemmas. From Cold War conspiracies to modern cyber threats, spy thrillers captivate audiences by revealing the shadowy underbelly of international relations and the personal sacrifices made for the greater good. There’s a new espionage/political thriller by Michael Idov that will be released in November, “The Collaborators,” that is sure to become a classic.

Michael Idov is a novelist, director, and screenwriter. A Latvian-born American raised in Riga under Soviet occupation, he moved to New York after graduating from the University of Michigan. Michael’s writing career began at New York magazine, where his features won three National Magazine Awards, and he has also been the editor-in-chief of GQ Russia. He is also the author of “Ground Up” and “Dressed Up for a Riot.” Michael has worked on numerous film and TV projects, including Londongrad, Deutschland 83, Leto, and The Humorist. His new book “The Collaborators” is an electrifying, cutting-edge spy thriller featuring a brilliant young intelligence officer and a troubled heiress who stumble into a global conspiracy that pits Russia against the CIA. It will be released on November 19 and is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Simon & Schuster, 2024)

“The Collaborators” – Combining realistic thrills with sophisticated spycraft and witty dialogue, it delivers a gut-punch answer to the biggest geopolitical question of our time: How, exactly, did post-Soviet Russia turn down the wrong path?

Crisscrossing the globe on the way to this shocking revelation are disaffected millennial CIA officer Ari Falk, thrown into a moral and professional crisis by the death of his best asset, and brash, troubled LA heiress Maya Chou, spiraling after the disappearance of her Russian American billionaire father. The duo’s adventures take us to both classic and surprising locales—from Berlin and Tangier to Latvia, Belarus, and an abandoned technopark outside Moscow.

Dynamic, fast-paced, and filled with captivating details that provide a window into a secretive world, “The Collaborators” is a first-rate thriller that pays homage to both meanings of “intelligence.”

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Trapped in Suspense: How Raf Lindia’s ‘Girl in a Glass Box’ Redefines Psychological Thrillers

‘Girl in a Glass Box’ is a suspenseful psychological thriller by Raf Lindia. Photo: Amazon

Raf Lindia is a multi award winner for best screenplay based on his novel “Girl in a Glass Box.” A screenplay writer and movie producer, Raf Lindia first novels featuring the engaging Detective Francesco Marchese, have been highly acclaimed in his home country and home language. Raf has lived in New York since 2014 where he continues to pursue his passion as a writer and his dream of sharing his novels with a wider audience. “Girl in a Glass Box” is his third novel translated in English after “A One Way Ticket” (2022) and “Shakespeare: Conspiracy of Silence” (2021). (Amazon, 2024)

“Girl in a Glass Box” – Emily Barton’s life is different from the other children of Mystic, Connecticut. Traumatized by the abandonment of her father at only six years old, she spends her childhood between therapy and home-schooling. With a very protective mother, many years pass before Emily is ready for a normal life. When she falls in love with her high school classmate, Robert Smith, she is forced to discover the harsh difference between love and possession.

Review:

The story centers around Emily and takes place in Connecticut. It begins with an adult Emily meeting up with her fiancée Peter Avellino, an officer with the Groton Police. Together they visit the grave of Robert Smith and then visit Valerie’s mother in prison where she has been for the last seven years. Afterwards, they head out to Emily’s childhood home to retrieve her original social security card, which she needs for her new job. Being there brings back memories she wishes she could erase. The narrative then goes back to her childhood years, starting when she was excited about turning six and starting the first grade. Her excitement turns to heartbreak when Valerie tells her that her father Albert has left them and is never coming back. This event will forever change Emily’s life as she is thrown into a dark and destructive world of psychological abuse.

“Girl in a Glass Box” is a riveting psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. As Emily struggles to piece together the fragments of her memory and uncover the truth about what really happened all those years ago, it unravels a web of secrets and lies that reveals deeper layers of intrigue. She doesn’t understand what is happening to her and is understandably trusting her mother to do the right thing, but she will live to regret it. The ending is definitely a surprise and hints of a continuing story.

The writing is sharp and haunting, immersing readers in Emily’s confusing world filled with frustration and growing desperation: “The reality struck her, crushing her heart past the point of tears. Her father was no longer part of their lives.” While the narrative is non-linear, it’s a short and easy read. The pacing is brisk, with each chapter escalating the tension and adding new twists to the plot. Emily’s character is deeply developed and she is portrayed with depth and complexity, making her plight all the more compelling. More background on Valerie would have helped readers understand the reasoning behind her disturbing behavior. The story explores the themes of family, identity, and survival. Lindia masterfully balances suspense with psychological insight, making this novel not just a gripping read but a thought-provoking one.

Overall, “Girl in a Glass Box” is a dark psychological thriller and a standout in the genre that will leave readers eagerly anticipating Lindia’s next work. Hopefully by shining the light on destructive and complex familial relationships and psychological abuse/manipulation, it will promote dialogue on these social issues that often go unnoticed. It is recommended for fans of suspense, thrillers, and thought provoking family drama fiction.

“She put me inside a glass box that I couldn’t perceive and from which she didn’t intend to let me out. I was in a prison I couldn’t see.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Intrigue and Justice: ‘Righteous Assassin’ is a Suspenseful Thriller

‘Righteous Assassin’ by Kevin G. Chapman. Photo: Amazon

Kevin G. Chapman is a writer and corporate labor and employment lawyer who works for a major US media company. He frequently speaks at Continuing Legal Education seminars, has taught legal writing to law students, and is the past chairperson of the Labor & Employment division of the global Association of Corporate Counsel. He is the author of the award-winning Mike Stoneman thriller series and other novels, short stories, and screenplays. His book “Righteous Assassin,” a Mike Stoneman thriller, is a thrilling page-turner with twists you’ll never see coming. (Amazon, 2024)

“Righteous Assassin” – The story begins with four unsolved murders in four months, each on the last Saturday of the month. A mob boss is eaten alive by tigers at the Bronx Zoo, a sweatshop owner is mutilated and left to bleed out, a pharmaceutical baron is tortured and frozen to death, and a fashion designer is poisoned in her Upper East Side apartment.

NYPD homicide detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson must stop the elusive killer before he completes his decathlon of death. Each murder adds a piece to the killer’s puzzle, but even unravelling the clues and finding the killer’s pattern may not be enough to catch him.

The task force includes an FBI profiler, and Mike gets an assist from Medical Examiner Michelle McNeill, who seems to be on his mind a lot lately. She’s an asset to the investigation, but is this any time to be starting a romance? Each month is a race against the calendar. Only one thing is certain – on the last Saturday of the month, there will be blood.

This crime thriller is a pulse-pounding novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Detective Mike Stoneman finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a cunning serial killer who’s targeting the city’s elite. The killer’s meticulously planned murders, each with a disturbing biblical twist, add a chilling layer of complexity to the case.

Chapman’s writing is sharp and engaging, drawing readers deep into the gritty world of crime investigation. The plot is intricate and filled with unexpected turns, making it difficult to predict the killer’s next move. While the character development could be deeper, Stoneman emerges as a compelling protagonist, driven by a relentless pursuit of justice.

The narrative is tight and immersive, skillfully weaving together suspense and character-driven drama. Narrating the killer’s intentions in the first person makes his actions seem more disturbing “I shall now sleep the untroubled sleep of the righteous.” The pacing is relentless, ensuring readers are on edge with each twist and turn. Sam is a deeply flawed protagonist, struggling with internal demons as much as external threats, which makes his journey both compelling and relatable. Even though the murder scenes are gruesome, they are not overly graphic.

Overall, “Righteous Assassin” is a gripping dive into the world of vigilante justice and moral ambiguity. The author’s portrayal of moral dilemmas and the consequences of vigilantism is thought-provoking, making this more than just a thriller. It challenges readers to reflect on justice, ethics, and the cost of taking the law into one’s own hands. A fast paced, thrilling, and intense read, it is reminiscent of the movie Se7en and is recommended for fans of crime thrillers that revolve around serial killers similar to Thomas Harris’ “Silence of the Lambs.”

“I am confident that the description of the mystery man will yield no accurate details, since I carefully crafted a backstory to go along with my false identity. I have nothing to fear.”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Discussion: I am new to this author and can’t wait to read more of his Mike Stoneman novels. Have you read any of them? Which one would you recommend? Are you a fan of the author? Have you read “Righteous Assassin”? If so, what are your thoughts?

Exploring Solitude: A Deep Dive into ‘The Alone Time’

‘The Alone Time’ is Elle Marr’s latest psychological thriller. Photo: Amazon

“The Alone Time” – When Fiona and Violet Seng were just children, their family’s Cessna crash-landed in the Washington wilderness during a family vacation. It claimed the lives of their parents and for twelve weeks, the girls fended for themselves before being rescued. (Amazon, 2024)

Twenty-five years later, they’re still trying to move on from the trauma. Fiona uses their experience to create controversial works of art. Violet has battled addiction and failed relationships to finally progress toward normalcy as a writer. The estranged sisters never speak about what they call their Alone Time in the wild. They wouldn’t dare—until they become the subject of a documentary that renews public fascination with the “girl survivors” and questions their version of the events.

Now a strange woman claims to know the truth surrounding the crash and Fiona and Violet must work together to face the horrifying truth of what happened out there and what they learned about their parents and themselves before any other secrets emerge from the woods. Seeking the truth, Fiona and Violet go back to the scene of the crash to face the painful truth once and for all.

Review:
Elle Marr’s “The Alone Time” explores the psychological complexities of isolation and fear, crafting a gripping narrative that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. The narration switches between the points of view of Fiona, Henry, Janet, and Violet to give readers deep insight into the character’s mindset; though the non-linear narrative gets confusing at times. At best, it reminds us of how unreliable our childhood memories tend to be. 

Marr’s skillful prose weaves a chilling atmosphere, drawing readers into Fiona and Violet’s increasingly fragile mental state as they confront both external threats and their own inner demons. The narrative is rich with suspense, as layers of mystery unfold with each page turned, leaving a trail of unanswered questions that compel the reader to keep reading. The language is rich and descriptive: “Branches extend toward us as if welcoming us into their lush grave..”

The character development is nuanced and makes the characters relatable, particularly Violet’s journey from vulnerability to strength as she fights to reclaim her sense of security. With themes of survival, family, and resilience, the author paints a vivid portrait of women pushed to their limits and beyond. The numerous plot-twists make this a first rate thriller.

Overall, “The Alone Time” is a masterful thriller that combines atmospheric tension with profound emotional depth, making it a compelling read for fans of psychological suspense. Marr proves herself a formidable storyteller with this gripping tale of fear and redemption in the wilderness. It is recommended for readers who enjoy suspense thrillers with complex characters.

“After a certain level of trauma is reached, the only choice we have is to either feel the pain in all its depth and depravity or choose numbness-ice to assuage the heat.”

*The author received a copy of this book through Amazon First Reads. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Thrills and Twists: A Review of ‘The Bucharest Legacy’ by William Maz

‘The Bucharest Legacy’ is the latest novel in the Bill Hefflin Spy Thriller Series by William Maz. Photo: Amazon

William Maz was born in Bucharest, Romania, of Greek parents and emigrated to the U.S. as a child. He is a graduate of Harvard University, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and Yale residency. He studied writing at Harvard, the New School, The Writer’s Studio in New York City, and with Gordon Lish, and is now writing full time. He is the author of the Bill Hefflin Spy Thriller Series that includes “The Bucharest Dossier” and “The Bucharest Legacy.” In “The Bucharest Legacy,” CIA agent Bill Hefflin is back in Bucharest and right in the middle of spies and crooked politicians as he looks for a KGB mile inside the Agency. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Bucharest Legacy” – The CIA is rocked to its core when a KGB defector divulges that there is a KGB mole inside the Agency. They learn that the mole’s handler is a KGB agent known as Boris. Bill Hefflin recognizes that name—Boris is the code name of Hefflin’s longtime KGB asset. If the defector is correct, Hefflin realizes Boris must be a triple agent, and his supposed mole has been passing false intel to Hefflin and the CIA. This makes Hefflin the prime suspect as the KGB mole inside the Agency.

Hefflin is given a chance to prove his innocence by returning to his city of birth, Bucharest, Romania, to find Boris and track down the identity of the mole. It’s been three years since the bloody revolution, but the country is controlled by the underground and the new oligarchs, all of whom want to find Boris. But Hefflin has a secret that no one else knows—Boris has been dead for over a year.

This espionage thriller takes place in a post-Cold War Europe and expertly combines history, intrigue, and contemporary geopolitics into a thrilling narrative. The story begins in Romania in 1993 as he is put in charge of driving a KGB defector to the American embassy but the mission is compromised and he has to take him to a safer location, his family’s old apartment. So begins Bill Hefflin’s journey of uncovering a mysterious conspiracy rooted in the aftermath of Ceausescu’s Romania.

Maz’s writing is crisp and haunting, painting vivid pictures of European cities scarred by history yet pulsating with modern life. The language is descriptive and makes the action come to life: “The building windows burst, shards sprayed both Hefflin and the defector and crackled on the cobblestones like fine sleet. A ball of fire hurtled high above the buildings, followed by the cries of men.” The characters are well developed and compelling, especially Hefflin, whose relentless pursuit of the truth drives the plot forward with each twist and revelation.

The author’s deep understanding of espionage and geopolitical forces gives the story authenticity and keeps readers on the edge of their seats. He expertly explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of historical secrets, delivering a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and poignant.

Overall, “The Bucharest Legacy” is a suspenseful thriller that will appeal to fans of international espionage and political intrigue similar to the works of John le Carré and Brad Thor. It offers an intriguing glimpse into the shadowy world of intelligence operations within the backdrop of Europe’s turbulent history.

“He took a deep breath and forced his mind to look at her the way his father, the doctor, must have looked upon the body of a patient, and as Catherine had taught him to look upon an assailant, without regard to their humanity. It was the only way he could do what she was asking.”

*The author received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Forthcoming movie release: You Can’t Run Forever

You Can’t Run Forever will be released on May 17, 2024. Photo: Lionsgate, used with permission.

Some of the most exciting movies to watch are thrillers. The suspense, intrigue, and adrenaline-fueled plots hold the audience’s attention and immerse them in a world of uncertainty, where every twist and turn keeps them on the edge of their seats. In today’s movie news, if you’re searching for the next exciting movie, the new J.K. Simmons thriller, You Can’t Run Forever, will be released in theaters, on digital, and on demand on Friday May 17, 2024.

You Can’t Run Forever –
Miranda, a young woman already suffering from acute anxiety due to a past tragedy, faces a new terror when a serial killer chooses her as his new target. In a harrowing hunt through the woods, Miranda finds strength she never knew she had as she tries to elude her murderous tracker. Academy Award® winner J.K. Simmons stars in a spine-chilling thriller about the strength of family and the astonishing power of the human spirit. It stars J.K. Simmons, Fernanda Urrejola, Allen Leech, Isabelle Anaya, Graham Patrick Martin, and Olivia Simmons. (EG PR, 2024)

Genre: Thriller
Rating: R for violent content including suicide, language, drug use, and brief sexual content.
Running Time: 103 minutes
Directed by Michelle Schumacher
Written by Carolyn Carpenter, Michelle Schumacher
Produced by Randle Schumacher

“You Can’t Run Forever” is about trauma and survival, and how sometimes we think we couldn’t possibly survive something tragic in our lives, only to realize not only can we survive, but we are stronger. It’s about the love and strength of family. The family you’re born into, and the family you choose.” – Michelle Schumacher

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Book review: ‘Revival’ by Stephen King

‘Revival’ by Stephen King. Photo: Amazon

Stephen King is the author of more than sixty books, all of them worldwide bestsellers. His recent work includes the short story collection “You Like It Darker,” “Holly,” “Fairy Tale,” “If It Bleeds,” “Sleeping Beauties” (cowritten with his son Owen King), and the Bill Hodges trilogy: “End of Watch,” “Finders Keepers,” and “Mr. Mercedes” (an Edgar Award winner for Best Novel and a television series streaming on Peacock). He is the recipient of the 2020 Audio Publishers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2018 PEN America Literary Service Award, the 2014 National Medal of Arts, and the 2003 National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. His 2015 book “Revival” is a dark and electrifying novel about addiction, fanaticism, and what might exist on the other side of life. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis:
“Revival” – In a small New England town, over half a century ago, a shadow falls over a small boy playing with his toy soldiers. Jamie Morton looks up to see a striking man, the new minister. Charles Jacobs, along with his beautiful wife, will transform the local church. The men and boys are all a bit in love with Mrs. Jacobs; the women and girls feel the same about Reverend Jacobs—including Jamie’s mother and beloved sister, Claire. With Jamie, the Reverend shares a deeper bond based on a secret obsession. When tragedy strikes the Jacobs family, this charismatic preacher curses God, mocks all religious belief, and is banished from the shocked town.

Jamie has demons of his own. He plays guitar in bands across the country, living the nomadic lifestyle of bar-band rock and roll while fleeing from his family’s horrific loss. In his mid-thirties—addicted to heroin, stranded, desperate—Jamie meets Charles Jacobs again, with profound consequences for both men. Their bond becomes a pact beyond even the Devil’s devising, and Jamie discovers that revival has many meanings.

Review:
Like all the best novels from Stephen King, this story develops over five decades and follows Jamie Morton’s life from child to adult. His life is linked to Charles Jacobs right from the beginning and Jamie is thus destined to witness his chilling journey from minister to a madman obsessed with electricity and the afterlife. King masterfully weaves together elements of horror and psychological suspense to create a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking.

His vivid characterization and immersive storytelling transport readers into a world where the line between science and the supernatural blurs. True to his creative use of creature imagery, he doesn’t disappoint: “Now from the dead woman’s gaping mouth came a black leg with a flexing claw at the end of it. The claw was alive; it was a face.” The character development in both lead characters is impressive, which makes them highly relatable. Jacobs’ obsession with electricity is reminiscent of Victor Frankenstein, especially towards the end: “‘No heartbeat,’ he said. ‘Yet she lives. She lives!’”

“Revival” by Stephen King is a haunting exploration of obsession, faith, and the dark corners of human nature and is proof of his ability to entertain and unsettle his audience. With its eerie atmosphere and profound themes of family, death, and the afterlife, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture into its pages. It is the author at his best, and this novel is recommended for longtime King fans who appreciate horror stories with flawed but fascinating characters.

“This is how we bring about our own damnation, you know – by ignoring the voice that begs us to stop. To stop while there’s still time.”

Book to series adaptation: ‘Dark Matter’ by Blake Crouch

The television adaptation of ‘Dark Matter’ will premiere on Apple TV + on May 8, 2024. Photo: Amazon

Speculative fiction is such an imaginative genre, which is why it’s one of my favorites. Blake Crouch’s “Dark Matter” resolves around the concept of the Many-Worlds Interpretation (MWI) of quantum mechanics – that every quantum event spawns a branching universe, creating an infinite number of parallel realities. I’ve always found the concept intriguing, and luckily this book has been adapted into a television series.

Blake Crouch is a bestselling novelist and screenwriter. His novels include the New York Times bestseller “Dark Matter,” and the internationally bestselling Wayward Pines trilogy, which was adapted into a television series for FOX. Crouch also created the TNT show Good Behavior, based on his Letty Dobesh novellas. “Dark Matter” is a speculative thriller about an ordinary man who awakens in a world inexplicably different from the reality he thought he knew. It has been adapted into a television series for Apple TV + and will premiere the first two episodes on May 8 for a total of nine episodes. (Amazon, 2024)

Book synopsis:
From bestselling author Blake Crouch, “Dark Matter” is a mind-bending thriller about choices, paths not taken, and how far we’ll go to claim the lives we dream of.

“Are you happy with your life?” Those are the last words Jason Dessen hears before the kidnapper knocks him unconscious. Before he awakens to find himself strapped to a gurney, surrounded by strangers in hazmat suits. Before a man he’s never met smiles down at him and says, “Welcome back, my friend.”

In this world he’s woken up to, Jason’s life is not the one he knows. His wife is not his wife. His son was never born. And Jason is not an ordinary college professor but a celebrated genius who has achieved something remarkable. Something impossible. Is it this life or the other that’s the dream? And even if the home he remembers is real, how will Jason make it back to the family he loves?

Series synopsis:
Jason Dessen is abducted into an alternate version of his life. To get back to his true family, he embarks on a harrowing journey to save them from the most terrifying foe imaginable: the alternate version of himself. It stars Joel Edgerton as Jason Dessen, Jennifer Connelly as Daniela Dessen, and Alice Braga as Amanda.

Photo: Apple TV