Specific Impulse
- 2011 INDIES Finalist
- Finalist, Thriller & Suspense (Adult Fiction)
Jake Sabio executes a running tackle on Dr. Carin Gonzalez, throwing her to the ground. A thunderous explosion at Barringer Meteor Crater fills the air. Space scientist Gonzalez is furious at her rude introduction to Sabio, a former submarine commander.
Those present at the time of the explosion soon die, all but Sabio and Gonzalez. The combination of her scientific knowledge, his strategic thinking, and the unknown effects of the explosion enable them to stay one step ahead of those who want them for questioning, and those who want them dead.
In Specific Impulse, Charles Justiz understands the value of suspense and serves up a healthy dose of it., calling on his experiences as a NASA pilot and engineer to create a thriller that will keep the pages turning. He intertwines science fiction, action, politics, and even a little romance. As the reader encounters greed, murder, and political expediency, the story remains taut and focused.
Yet, even in a world of meteorites and possible extraterrestrial societies, this is not a sci-fi thriller where the author loses touch with reality. In fact, Justiz builds suspense through the intelligence and humanity of his characters. Their range of emotions is believable and key to the story. In addition to Sabio and Gonzalez, there is the machine-based intelligence named Fred, assassin Antonio Crubari, who shimmers with evil, and FBI Agent Will Greenfield, working diligently to uphold justice.
Some may have difficulty understanding the scientific explanations behind the plot, knowledge that would likely enhance the reading experience. Fortunately, the characters are three-dimensional and by the end of the book, readers won’t want to let them go. The ending cries out for a sequel.
This is a great read for those who enjoy suspenseful thrillers or realistic science fiction.
Reviewed by
Pat Avery
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book and paid a small fee to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Foreword Reviews and Clarion Reviews make no guarantee that the publisher will receive a positive review. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
