The Crucible: A Political Thriller [Kindle Edition]

What a brilliantly written novel this is. In real life I am heartily indifferent to politics but this action filled thriller incorporates so much more. It is set in the near future and features Greg, a man who has invented a device for producing cheap power when dropped into a water course. He has his identity stolen by the mysterious but very powerful Thomas who is involved with restoring fortunes which have been acquired by self-serving African dictators. Meantime, the AIDS pandemic is increasing alarmingly and the Americans, fuelled by fundamentalist righteousness, are trying to wipe out Iran.

The characters are three dimensional - they have back-stories and family involvements that make them more than silhouettes. The writing is accomplished and professional and gave me a really satisfying reading experience. It is obvious that there will be more to come in this story and I will certainly follow up with reading Crucible #2. I can see that I have been missing out by not finding Ruby Barnes and his work until now. I intend to remedy that in short order! Highly recommended.

In 1936, a mutated virus passed from monkey to human, and a deadly epidemic was born. Set in a near but undated future, the world is in what would be its last turmoil. While the United States is poised to begin an Armageddon-like battle in the Middle East, Europeans are emigrating en masse to Africa, believing they are returning to the birthplace of mankind. Both groups are fueled by a fundamentalist religious fervor, one believing they are bringing about the prophesied end of the world, and the other believing they are bringing about the rebirth of civilization. When Thomas steals Greg's identity, he brings him into a double life as a conspirator. Greg's parents have already traveled to Africa to begin their new life, and his wife wants to relocate there as well. But Greg knows too much.

Ruby Barnes has taken an entirely new direction with this new novel. A political thriller, the AIDS pandemic, conspiracy theories, and a bit of lust and romance all combine to make this impossible to put down. The only problem? It was only Part One. Now, I anxiously await Part Two.

4 stars

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [..] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A thought-provoking novel jammed packed with action, espionage and conspiracy. It took me awhile to get into the book, but once I did, I had trouble putting it down!

It paints a very disturbing picture of the potential "solutions" to third world problems. I was extremely surprised (and impressed) by the ending of "part one". I will definitely be keeping my eye out for part two of the novel!