Assessment:

Plot: The author has done an excellent job of developing a plot that is equal parts thrilling and immersive. Well-paced, the story has the ability to make readers sit back and relax as the characters are relaxing, and then suddenly sit up straight as exciting events unfold.

Prose/Style: While very well written, the novel could use a thorough proofread to take care of typographical mistakes, which pop up every now and then. The shifting points of view between London and Hong Kong also add to the edge of the story. The author's way of introducing a conflict through foreshadowing is very effective.

Originality: This is a novel steeped in the technical aspects of things, that has done such a great job of catering both to the tech-savvy as well as those who barely understand the jargon. Considering that it is partly based on true events the author experienced, the novel manages a unique kind of thrill readers would not have expected from a story about network hacking and spam emails. The larger picture of espionage and politics make it even more interesting.

Character Development: All of the characters are fairly well developed. While most of the supporting characters get lost in the many names and ranks introduced throughout the novel, readers are able to follow the story of the main characters very well, as well as their interactions with other characters. The development of Luke from a man who just wanted a normal living situation into a man who resigns in the face of injustice was well done, and readers will look forward to reading the upcoming books in the trilogy.

Date Submitted: June 17, 2019