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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 5 out of 5.

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Pub date November 13, 2020

ISBN 978-0645006209

Price $19.99 (USD) Paperback, $4.09 Kindle edition

Author interview

Pitting a ruthless psychopath and an unlikely spy against a brilliant scientist, Murrell’s swiftly paced first installment in The Lamaar series is crammed with action, political intrigue, and high-tech drama. Marcus Hall, a Sydney scientist, accidently makes a therapeutic breakthrough in neuroscience while developing a radical 5G Wi-Fi receiver for CSIRO. With foreign intelligence agencies in a race to acquire the priceless invention, Marcus finds himself embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy. Murrell effectively juggles his large cast of characters and gracefully weaves various plot threads into the affecting narrative. His characterization is topnotch, especially the antagonists who come out as both intimidating and utterly sinister. Though readers will be intrigued by the characters’ interpersonal dynamic which is developed with great precision, the first part of the narrative is filled with unrelated individual digressions. But in the second half, the story unfolds at a breakneck pace, and Murrell packs in enough twists and turns that keep the reader invested until the last page is turned. The premise is intriguing, and Murrell’s scarce use of technological jargon makes it accessible to all readers. Thrilling action, crisp prose, sophisticated scientific and technical details make this novel a thoroughly fulfilling read. Lovers of fast-paced, action-packed techno thrillers will want to take a look.

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