Review: Surprisingly Good
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 26, 2012
I really can't say I expected a great deal from this book as I'm not a big fan of the genre. I was bored, and read the sample. Even then I was on the fence, but the writing was entertaining, and from the page count I could tell it was a full length novel instead of the usual novella. I gave it a shot, and I have no regrets.Subject 12 is a fast paced book filled with action based in a world similar to our own where super powers, aliens, and magic are more than just pop-culture. The author does a very nice job of integrating what we consider reality with the reality of his world with just enough blending of history to make it plausible. The protagonist is an ex-merc on the run from his previous employer who is at a crisis point in his life. His progression through the story is organic and interesting.Pros:The protagonist found himself falling back into old patterns even after he consciously understood they were wrong due to previous conditioning and habit instead of just doing the right thing from the moment he realized he needed to change. He slowly internalizes the changes that need to be made and starts to become a better person.The action sequences were fast and gripping. The protagonists power was interesting, original and while powerful, had definite limitations.The protagonist grows in both his power and character throughout the book.Cons:The Protagonist is an ex-soldier, ex-mercenary. He was highly trained in all manner of small arms and explosives yet, he relied on hand to hand combat throughout the book, even when it was the riskiest method to accomplish his goals. Worse, we received no explanation for this odd behavior.Some minor editing problems.funny:The author closes the scene on a intimate moment with a G rating then opens the next paragraph with a much more intimate encounter.