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Portals
The gripping near-future thriller by the New York Times bestselling author whose books have sold over two million copies.
Hidden portals link Earth to numerous other planets. But why do they all contain human civilizations? And why does our nearest neighbor have its sights set on Earth?
Noah Harris and Ashley Flynn are field agents for a powerful organization tasked with protecting humanity from the misuse of game-changing technology. But when they discover hidden portals that link Earth to numerous planets, put in place ages earlier by transcendent beings, they are thrust into a maze of deception and intrigue they can't begin to understand. One that not only has them battling for their very lives, but which will decide the fate of worlds.
Because, inexplicably, each of the planets contain human civilizations. And the human rulers of our nearest portal neighbor, having already conquered their own world, have come up with a brilliant, twisted plan to conquer ours.
And only Noah and Ashley stand in their way . . .
Portals is a masterful near-future thriller, one packed with nonstop action, astonishing twists, and mind-blowing concepts.
"Richards is an extraordinary writer," (Dean Koontz) who can "keep you turning the pages all night long." (Douglas Preston)
"Richards is a worthy successor to Michael Crichton." (SF Book dot com)
NEAR-FUTURE SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS
STANDALONES
QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
SERIES
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)
THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)
Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
DEVIL'S SWORD
Hidden portals link Earth to numerous other planets. But why do they all contain human civilizations? And why does our nearest neighbor have its sights set on Earth?
Noah Harris and Ashley Flynn are field agents for a powerful organization tasked with protecting humanity from the misuse of game-changing technology. But when they discover hidden portals that link Earth to numerous planets, put in place ages earlier by transcendent beings, they are thrust into a maze of deception and intrigue they can't begin to understand. One that not only has them battling for their very lives, but which will decide the fate of worlds.
Because, inexplicably, each of the planets contain human civilizations. And the human rulers of our nearest portal neighbor, having already conquered their own world, have come up with a brilliant, twisted plan to conquer ours.
And only Noah and Ashley stand in their way . . .
Portals is a masterful near-future thriller, one packed with nonstop action, astonishing twists, and mind-blowing concepts.
"Richards is an extraordinary writer," (Dean Koontz) who can "keep you turning the pages all night long." (Douglas Preston)
"Richards is a worthy successor to Michael Crichton." (SF Book dot com)
NEAR-FUTURE SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS
STANDALONES
QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
SERIES
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)
THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)
Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
DEVIL'S SWORD
ebook
First published September 1, 2022
5,118 people are currently reading
2,027 people want to read
About the author
Douglas E. Richards
66books1,703followersWrite to Doug at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and visit the author's website to be notified of new releases.
Douglas E. Richards is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of science-fiction thrillers that have sold more than three million copies (see list below). Richards has been celebrated for his gripping, thought-provoking works that blend cutting-edge scientific concepts with heart-pounding narratives.
Richards burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, WIRED, published in 2010. The novel garnered widespread acclaim for its ingenious combination of scientific speculation and thrilling storytelling. This success set the stage for a series of bestselling novels, each marked by meticulous research, riveting plots, and characters that resonate with readers.
Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives, Richards has become a go-to author for readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-fueled reading experience. His works delve deeply into the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific breakthroughs and the potential impact of technology on society.
A former Director of Biotechnology Licensing at Bristol Myers Squibb and a former biotechnology executive, Richards earned a BS in microbiology from the Ohio State University, a master's degree in genetic engineering from the University of Wisconsin--where he engineered mutant viruses now named after him--and an MBA from the University of Chicago.
The author has two grown children and lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and dog.
Richards loves hearing from readers, and always replies, so feel free to write to him at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and address him as "Doug". You can also Friend Richards on Facebook at Douglas E. Richards Author, or visit his website, where you can sign up to be notified of new releases.
SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS
SERIES
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
UNLEASHED (Nick Hall 4)
SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)
THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)
STANDALONE NOVELS
QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
THE CURE (To become KU eligible for the first time in 2023)
THE BREAKTHROUGH EFFECT
Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
DEVIL'S SWORD
Douglas E. Richards is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of science-fiction thrillers that have sold more than three million copies (see list below). Richards has been celebrated for his gripping, thought-provoking works that blend cutting-edge scientific concepts with heart-pounding narratives.
Richards burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, WIRED, published in 2010. The novel garnered widespread acclaim for its ingenious combination of scientific speculation and thrilling storytelling. This success set the stage for a series of bestselling novels, each marked by meticulous research, riveting plots, and characters that resonate with readers.
Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives, Richards has become a go-to author for readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-fueled reading experience. His works delve deeply into the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific breakthroughs and the potential impact of technology on society.
A former Director of Biotechnology Licensing at Bristol Myers Squibb and a former biotechnology executive, Richards earned a BS in microbiology from the Ohio State University, a master's degree in genetic engineering from the University of Wisconsin--where he engineered mutant viruses now named after him--and an MBA from the University of Chicago.
The author has two grown children and lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and dog.
Richards loves hearing from readers, and always replies, so feel free to write to him at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and address him as "Doug". You can also Friend Richards on Facebook at Douglas E. Richards Author, or visit his website, where you can sign up to be notified of new releases.
SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS
SERIES
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
UNLEASHED (Nick Hall 4)
SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)
THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)
STANDALONE NOVELS
QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
THE CURE (To become KU eligible for the first time in 2023)
THE BREAKTHROUGH EFFECT
Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
DEVIL'S SWORD
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews
October 19, 2022
I couldn’t get through this one.
I have enjoyed 2 of Douglas Richard’s books. But the last two have gotten into long winded preachy sermons. In Portals it’s, way more about addictions than you will ever want to know. It goes on and on and on. The story gets dropped as he gets so entangled in his research on addiction. I wanted to pull my hair and yell "Stop!!!" I just could not reward any more. I really wanted like his work…and do to a degree, but he needs a lot more discipline and much better editing. Writing a good yarn is like killing your babies. You have to remove passages you love if they do not directly serve the story…and Richard’s has difficulty in this realm. Sadly I won’t be reading any more of his books.
I have enjoyed 2 of Douglas Richard’s books. But the last two have gotten into long winded preachy sermons. In Portals it’s, way more about addictions than you will ever want to know. It goes on and on and on. The story gets dropped as he gets so entangled in his research on addiction. I wanted to pull my hair and yell "Stop!!!" I just could not reward any more. I really wanted like his work…and do to a degree, but he needs a lot more discipline and much better editing. Writing a good yarn is like killing your babies. You have to remove passages you love if they do not directly serve the story…and Richard’s has difficulty in this realm. Sadly I won’t be reading any more of his books.
November 15, 2022
I’ve nearly enjoyed (eh, not really, if I look back on them) the author’s other books, but there is just something wrong with this book. For a good few chapters I found myself wondering if this was parody or satire, or so intentionally campy as to be its own theme for the book. But it’s not. It’s just a bad story with bad characters and a terrible plot. Then again, Amped and Wired were also…well�.crap.
It’s bad enough where I double-checked that this WAS actually Douglas E. Richards who wrote it, because there are some exceptionally bad authors out there making a living off of similar sounding names to established authors.
There is enough useless exposition as to make Tom Clancy get up out of his grave and start waving around accusations. The tech angle is…well…a joke. Even in the “near future� setting this is bad and not founded on enough solidity to make the leap to suspension of disbelief. The characters are just…wrong. The two main characters, Noah and Ashley, drop lines and backstory like a 50s SciFi writer who still lives in their mother’s garage at the age of 47. Also some cringe moments where Noah toes the line of “male author describing women in embarrassing ways.�
This is just a bad book. And there is a LOT of it for being so bad. Imagine, if you will, a thrown out script from the original Get Smart TV series in the 60s where the writers all got together to discuss this script and, while trying to be polite, eventually just realized, “No�.we’re in agreement, this is just TOO campy and 1/8th-assed even for us.�
It’s bad enough where I double-checked that this WAS actually Douglas E. Richards who wrote it, because there are some exceptionally bad authors out there making a living off of similar sounding names to established authors.
There is enough useless exposition as to make Tom Clancy get up out of his grave and start waving around accusations. The tech angle is…well…a joke. Even in the “near future� setting this is bad and not founded on enough solidity to make the leap to suspension of disbelief. The characters are just…wrong. The two main characters, Noah and Ashley, drop lines and backstory like a 50s SciFi writer who still lives in their mother’s garage at the age of 47. Also some cringe moments where Noah toes the line of “male author describing women in embarrassing ways.�
This is just a bad book. And there is a LOT of it for being so bad. Imagine, if you will, a thrown out script from the original Get Smart TV series in the 60s where the writers all got together to discuss this script and, while trying to be polite, eventually just realized, “No�.we’re in agreement, this is just TOO campy and 1/8th-assed even for us.�
April 19, 2024
Portals by Douglas E. Richards is an exhilarating dive into the realm of speculative fiction. Richards masterfully crafts a narrative that explores the tantalizing concept of portals, seamlessly blending science and suspense.
As you read along, you'll find yourself captivated by the sheer imagination behind the idea of portals, while simultaneously experiencing a sense of uncertainty at the thought of their existence. Richards' ability to make the extraordinary feel almost tangible is what sets this book apart, leaving you yearning for more even as you grapple with the unsettling implications of its premise. I highly recommend "Portals" to anyone seeking a thrilling read that will leave them questioning the boundaries of reality.
As you read along, you'll find yourself captivated by the sheer imagination behind the idea of portals, while simultaneously experiencing a sense of uncertainty at the thought of their existence. Richards' ability to make the extraordinary feel almost tangible is what sets this book apart, leaving you yearning for more even as you grapple with the unsettling implications of its premise. I highly recommend "Portals" to anyone seeking a thrilling read that will leave them questioning the boundaries of reality.
February 19, 2023
2.5 stars
First off, whomever at the publishing company wrote the synopsis for the novel to catch ones attention should totally get a raise. The synopsis was spectacular and totally caught my attention in one of those kindle ads and made me buy this book and want to read it. Now, moving on with the review...
The synopsis of this novel was that there are essentially Stargate's to different planets, but they are all Earth (just by different names) and they have developed differently. An all powerful race decided to experiment with different Earths in different dimensions and see how they developed, whether in a positive manner or went extinct. This sounded really cool (I do love Stargate) and I was so excited about this novel. Then I started reading it.
The portals/other worlds part did not even show up in the novel until around 40% in (I was reading it on the kindle). And then, most of this novel when the action was taking place, was not when the action was taking place. Rather, the vast majority of the novel is when the characters are sitting at a conference table and DISCUSSING things that have occurred or the actions sequences that we didn't see, we are just hearing about. SOOOOOOO much of the novel was like this and it was so infuriating!
Then we get to the almost end and our characters are in quite a pickle, but....magically it is resolved and the novel seriously has a happily ever after ending. The one real saving grace of the ending is that it sounded interesting what the future could hold and the concept of Stargate/Star Trek type options....we just don't get to see any of that. And frankly, if the novel continued or series continued, it would probably be the same as this, where we don't see the action, rather, we just hear about it while the characters are having a conference.
This novel had so much potential and then just fell so damn flat because it was just boring to hear/read about the action, but experience so very little of it. I do not think I would pick up one of his novels again if this is his writing style. In addition to the weird conference room of the story the main character is such an arrogant narcissist throughout most of the novel and his voice just irritated me throughout. He always had this, "oh I will figure it out and it always comes out positive for me in the end," and it did, which was annoying. I will definitely have to pass on his future novels. But again, whomever wrote the synopsis of the novel to catch peoples attention, that person deserves a raise.
First off, whomever at the publishing company wrote the synopsis for the novel to catch ones attention should totally get a raise. The synopsis was spectacular and totally caught my attention in one of those kindle ads and made me buy this book and want to read it. Now, moving on with the review...
The synopsis of this novel was that there are essentially Stargate's to different planets, but they are all Earth (just by different names) and they have developed differently. An all powerful race decided to experiment with different Earths in different dimensions and see how they developed, whether in a positive manner or went extinct. This sounded really cool (I do love Stargate) and I was so excited about this novel. Then I started reading it.
The portals/other worlds part did not even show up in the novel until around 40% in (I was reading it on the kindle). And then, most of this novel when the action was taking place, was not when the action was taking place. Rather, the vast majority of the novel is when the characters are sitting at a conference table and DISCUSSING things that have occurred or the actions sequences that we didn't see, we are just hearing about. SOOOOOOO much of the novel was like this and it was so infuriating!
Then we get to the almost end and our characters are in quite a pickle, but....magically it is resolved and the novel seriously has a happily ever after ending. The one real saving grace of the ending is that it sounded interesting what the future could hold and the concept of Stargate/Star Trek type options....we just don't get to see any of that. And frankly, if the novel continued or series continued, it would probably be the same as this, where we don't see the action, rather, we just hear about it while the characters are having a conference.
This novel had so much potential and then just fell so damn flat because it was just boring to hear/read about the action, but experience so very little of it. I do not think I would pick up one of his novels again if this is his writing style. In addition to the weird conference room of the story the main character is such an arrogant narcissist throughout most of the novel and his voice just irritated me throughout. He always had this, "oh I will figure it out and it always comes out positive for me in the end," and it did, which was annoying. I will definitely have to pass on his future novels. But again, whomever wrote the synopsis of the novel to catch peoples attention, that person deserves a raise.
September 24, 2022
The second of Doug’s recent novels to be written with first person narration, Portals opens with a much more actiony feel than Unidentified. I didn’t particularly click with Noah to start with, but he grew on me, and his logical deductions and inferences were dazzling and exciting to read about.
The portals themselves were cleverly done, and the intricacy of the connections and AI-monitored travel rules leave a lot of room for more novels set in this universe. I really hope Doug can fly with this, he’s done a few series before and, to my mind, Portals is ripe for future exploits someday. Yet again, Doug excels at manipulating the reader and characters both (although any time I see that someone died in a Doug Richards novel I now disbelieve it until there’s a genuine body). As this story progressed, I was engaged and excited. I read the first 2 parts and went to bed, the addiction specialist idea bubbling up in my head. I paused at the start of part 6 to go feed myself and kept churning everything over in my mind. And then I finished the whole thing after that, gleefully sucking down every twist and turn and totally enjoying myself.
The portals themselves were cleverly done, and the intricacy of the connections and AI-monitored travel rules leave a lot of room for more novels set in this universe. I really hope Doug can fly with this, he’s done a few series before and, to my mind, Portals is ripe for future exploits someday. Yet again, Doug excels at manipulating the reader and characters both (although any time I see that someone died in a Doug Richards novel I now disbelieve it until there’s a genuine body). As this story progressed, I was engaged and excited. I read the first 2 parts and went to bed, the addiction specialist idea bubbling up in my head. I paused at the start of part 6 to go feed myself and kept churning everything over in my mind. And then I finished the whole thing after that, gleefully sucking down every twist and turn and totally enjoying myself.
October 8, 2022
When I got to the point where the bad guy literally laid out his evil plans I should have quit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2023
Did AI write this?
It reads like a parody of male writing. Any minute now, I’m expecting to read, “the young blonde woman’s breasts bounced, boobily�. It’s that bad.
I’m giving up.
It reads like a parody of male writing. Any minute now, I’m expecting to read, “the young blonde woman’s breasts bounced, boobily�. It’s that bad.
I’m giving up.
July 7, 2023
Where to start with this one?
Noah is a supremely unlikeable character. He is literally a Reddit mod with a fedora hat on, trying to constantly prove to everyone how clever he is. He is the cleverest clever person to ever be clever, we get it. He's fucking exhausting.
His relationship with Ashley is largely paper thin and not at all believeable. Their "banter" made me roll my eyes and cringe. Sometimes both.
The plot itself was somewhat intriguing... Until it completely jumped the shark. Not only was the plot one long info dump, it was sanctimonious. It was a boomer extolling social media. We get it, social media bad. You are above that. You good. We bad.
None of the characters had any depth. The death of the doctor and Emma were abrupt and then glossed over. Whatshisface getting his literal face shot off didn't make me upset because he had about three lines. Noah saying he because a good friend and was sad to see him gone... Lol, where did this friendship build? Behind the scenes?
The plot magically resolves because Noah is so clever(!) and is the smartest in the room. This book suffers from Fast and Furious Syndrome - a book that wants to be lofty but ends up being not quite al dente. Too much info, too little character development, too much preachy. Leave that for the church.
The more I think about this book, the less I like it.
Noah is a supremely unlikeable character. He is literally a Reddit mod with a fedora hat on, trying to constantly prove to everyone how clever he is. He is the cleverest clever person to ever be clever, we get it. He's fucking exhausting.
His relationship with Ashley is largely paper thin and not at all believeable. Their "banter" made me roll my eyes and cringe. Sometimes both.
The plot itself was somewhat intriguing... Until it completely jumped the shark. Not only was the plot one long info dump, it was sanctimonious. It was a boomer extolling social media. We get it, social media bad. You are above that. You good. We bad.
None of the characters had any depth. The death of the doctor and Emma were abrupt and then glossed over. Whatshisface getting his literal face shot off didn't make me upset because he had about three lines. Noah saying he because a good friend and was sad to see him gone... Lol, where did this friendship build? Behind the scenes?
The plot magically resolves because Noah is so clever(!) and is the smartest in the room. This book suffers from Fast and Furious Syndrome - a book that wants to be lofty but ends up being not quite al dente. Too much info, too little character development, too much preachy. Leave that for the church.
The more I think about this book, the less I like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2023
I had been looking forward to reading this for a while - the reviews and summary looked very promising. I find it hard to believe that so many people think highly of this book. The premise in the sales pitch is interesting, but a quarter of the way into the book it hasn't been developed yet. Instead we get such original touches as a super-capable secret agent with a fiendish sense of humor in the face of death, his female partner and, yes, lover, and their female boss. Unlike some other agency books where the tech is believably developed, here it exists only to impress and get them out of trouble. The writing is poor and shallow, though I admit the story moves along quickly. Too much formula and cliche by far for me, and I regret not getting to the "good" part, if it exists.
December 14, 2023
4.5/5! “Our greatest emperor, Caesar, is only linked to a salad. And he didn’t even invent it.�
To take science fiction, create a reality that is mind bending and funnel some knowledge in it is quite remarkable. I’ve loved every page of this book and I’ll be sure to read more by Douglas E. Richards, his style is quality but having the facts to back it makes it such a thrill.
The intelligence here is a pleasure and I did think that a couple of corners were taken initially. But once certain aspects unravelled I was taken aback even further by the sheer brilliance this world has to offer.
I wish I could have read it quicker but I’ve had plenty of time to ponder the goings on as well as what’s to come and what a pleasure that has been. More so, I’ve been able to recognise the inspiration taken from our very day to day lives that helped mould this book. It really is a shame we are in such a state of disarray, the majority of the time, but this book has helped me to see more than that.
Such a cool story, it rubs me the right way so much so I feel as though a new door has opened for me. I couldn’t ask for a better match to my tastes and if I wasn’t already fascinated, I am now.
“The best books, he perceived, are those that tell you what you know already� - George Orwell
And how I hope that is true here. The world is bleak but the potential is limitless. Thank you Douglas E. Richards for the optimism and for quelling that itch that took you to writing this book. From a new fan and a part-time hopeful pessimist, mainly just hopeful.
Thank you, it’s been a pleasure.
To take science fiction, create a reality that is mind bending and funnel some knowledge in it is quite remarkable. I’ve loved every page of this book and I’ll be sure to read more by Douglas E. Richards, his style is quality but having the facts to back it makes it such a thrill.
The intelligence here is a pleasure and I did think that a couple of corners were taken initially. But once certain aspects unravelled I was taken aback even further by the sheer brilliance this world has to offer.
I wish I could have read it quicker but I’ve had plenty of time to ponder the goings on as well as what’s to come and what a pleasure that has been. More so, I’ve been able to recognise the inspiration taken from our very day to day lives that helped mould this book. It really is a shame we are in such a state of disarray, the majority of the time, but this book has helped me to see more than that.
Such a cool story, it rubs me the right way so much so I feel as though a new door has opened for me. I couldn’t ask for a better match to my tastes and if I wasn’t already fascinated, I am now.
“The best books, he perceived, are those that tell you what you know already� - George Orwell
And how I hope that is true here. The world is bleak but the potential is limitless. Thank you Douglas E. Richards for the optimism and for quelling that itch that took you to writing this book. From a new fan and a part-time hopeful pessimist, mainly just hopeful.
Thank you, it’s been a pleasure.
December 1, 2022
this book takes science fiction to another level. sometimes, while reading i was convinced that these events could occur in real life. insane twists kept me addicted to turning every page and rushing to figure out what was going to happen. technology in 2022 does have a way of making life both exceptionally easier while also contributing to an individual’s downfall. either way, this book was CRAZY, if you love science fiction, this will surely tickle that part of your brain tremendously.
October 30, 2022
Meh......
Poor continuity and character establishment. I do not see where all the positive ratings come from ! Hope his other books are better.
Poor continuity and character establishment. I do not see where all the positive ratings come from ! Hope his other books are better.
November 24, 2022
Just didn't grab me.
October 18, 2022
Fascinating ideas and quite a technology to imagine - killer nanobots, nanobots able to terraform planets, nanobots that can make you invisible - basically, once we have nanobots, we will need to start thinking up problems all anew - can't wait for that to happen and probably won't be living that long :/
----------------
On average across the globe, human beings are wealthier, healthier, more literate, longer lived, and safer than at any time in history. But, ironically, we’re also more pessimistic and stressed out than ever before. Many of us feel like hamsters running on a never-ending but ever-accelerating wheel.
“Because of this rising stress, more and more of us are seeking an escape, and there are more and more avenues of addiction to turn to. And addiction itself dramatically increases stress, resulting in a nightmarish vicious circle.�
She paused to collect her thoughts. “Worse,� she continued, “the increase in the number of addictive lures isn’t just random. Brilliant minds around the world are working to enhance the addictive properties of numerous products. The result is that even though addiction is at unprecedented, epidemic levels, it only shows signs of increasing. Neurosis, depression, anxiety, and addiction afflict a higher percentage of the population than ever before.�
“If the world is better than ever,� I asked, “why are we more stressed than ever?�
“Because while we hate to admit it, we’re still animals. Primitives. Our brains are still those of cavemen, well suited to working in small, close-knit clans to stay alive. But this is no longer the case—by a long shot. Instead of being brothers-in-arms with small groups of people, we’re impacted by an endless parade of people we’ll never meet.�
The professor paused to let this sink in.
“Then, too,� she continued, “we’re more polarized than ever, more propagandized than ever. And this is only getting worse as new tech, especially social media and 24/7 news, divide us. First, we’re each getting individualized news feeds, so no two debaters are even working from the same set of facts, the same objective reality. And social media provides an anonymous platform to spew venom, to unleash our worst selves on each other, bypassing the normal restraints that evolution has built into us when interacting in person.�
Singh paused and returned her glass to the table in front of her. “Our tech ensures we’re always connected, always reachable, always on call. Which is stressful enough. But even worse, the tech is designed to worm its way into our minds, tempting us into devoting more and more attention to it. As I mentioned, we’re in a society filled with people hell bent on doing whatever they can to addict us. It’s a war for your brain.
“The alcohol industry, the gambling industry, the tobacco industry, the drug cartels, and many others have long done whatever they could get away with to better addict their customers. Then designer drugs came along, offering more potent, faster-acting highs that make them more addictive than ever before.
“But it goes far beyond substance abuse. Over the past few decades we’ve invented entirely new classes of products. Products that lead to what is called behavioral addiction.�
I stared at the professor, absolutely riveted. Addiction was something I knew little about, and I was finding it more fascinating than I would have guessed.
“Gambling has always been highly addictive,� she continued. “But now we have gambling online. No need to travel to underground gambling dens or seek out the glitter of Las Vegas. Now you can become addicted and lose your life savings from the comfort of your own home.
“And that’s only the beginning. The internet may be mankind’s greatest tool, but it’s also our most dangerous gateway to behavioral addiction. With cell phones being its most potent delivery vehicle. Now we have a wide variety of addictive products and activities that never existed before. Online pornography. Texting and emails. Virtual reality. Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Cable and internet news that never sleeps. Video games. Numerous streaming services with endless bingeable offerings.
“And advertisements. Everywhere. Finely tuned to your exact interests. Chasing you wherever you roam.
“We’ve gone from the simple, nomadic lifestyle our brains were evolved to thrive in, working in harmony with close clan-mates, to being plugged in every moment we’re awake. And while plugged in, we’re bombarded with advertisements, social media, and previously unheard-of products, each tailor-made to set a hook in our cheek and reel us in. An entire world vying for our clicks and eyeballs.”�
Singh shook her head in disgust. “And behind the scenes, an army of experts going to great lengths to addict us.
----------------
Less than two hours later, I found myself in the portal room once again, but this time I had company.
While I had been inside the first time, Emma hadn’t been idle. She had ordered the Cameroon base to prepare smart mines, far more powerful than those Hankey had used, with all of our faces on the approved list. Now that we had found the portal, she was intent on making sure that any allies Hankey might have on Earth couldn’t escape to Coria
----------------
The untold trillions of nanites would use themselves as building blocks when structures were requested, mimicking wood or glass or marble, unless a telepathic order specified that actual wood, or glass, or marble should be used. In these cases, the nanites under the floor could convert raw material into the exact molecular structure of the material requested, so a table wasn’t just mimicking mahogany, it was mahogany.
----------------
We’re all familiar with the nature versus nurture debate. But these other worlds, each founded with the identical starter set of progenitors, can reveal fascinating insight into ingrained human tendencies. There is something called convergent evolution, by which different organisms develop similar traits in response to similar necessities. In the same way, different populations of human beings tend to respond positively to the same shapes and textures. To similar music and art. Humanity tends to solve the same problems in much the same ways.
----------------
So even on Earth, Terrans had once been at the very top of the endangered species list. Not that the predators, natural disasters, and diseases that were killing them off at the time had much sympathy. Our ancestors managed to hang on, but it was touch and go for a long time, and we avoided extinction by the narrowest of margins.
----------------
we’ve had limited success at winning elected positions. And the American presidency seems forever out of reach.�
“Why is that?� asked Valerie.
“Because in your political system, neither brilliance, nor even basic competence, seem to be prerequisites for getting elected to an office. Instead, the skills required seem to be popularity, and an ability to lie shamelessly with every breath, make false promises, and trash your opponents.�
I nodded in disgust. “I wish I could say you were wrong.�
----------------
I admire a man who can keep his sense of humor in less than favorable circumstances.
----------------
Your people dream of achieving a colorblind society, but we’ve been colorblind for thousands of years. Competence is rewarded, and incompetence is punished. Period. We don’t discriminate based on any other factor, and we don’t pit one group against another.
----------------
The human psyche isn’t quite ready for these advances, even as you crave them. Instead of building relationships, taking time to enjoy the outdoors, living a simple, fulfilling life, Terrans often rush around with their noses in one electronic device after another, multitasking far beyond the human ability to multitask
----------------
the past fifty of your years, you’ve improved your health, longevity, literacy, quality of life, prosperity, and everything else. Dramatically. Yet almost all of you believe the opposite is true. Why? Because your news and social media is almost all negative. All alarming. All divisive. You’ve become more pessimistic, more tribal, than ever before. Your politicians ever more corrupt, manipulative, and self-serving
----------------
Let me compare Coria to Earth. In the past hundred years, more of you have died in battle, from drug overdoses, or from crime, than have died from these causes on Coria in the last eight thousand. You’re more neurotic and miserable than we’ve ever been. You have wars raging even now. You have an entire generation whose minds have been rewired by the internet. Who are so used to constant stimulation and jumping from hyperlink to hyperlink that they’re largely incapable of anything but superficial thought. And who hide behind anonymity to spew venom online, displaying the worst behavior our joint species has to offer
----------------
“Of course not. I intend to conquer Earth for purely selfish reasons. Or haven’t you been paying attention? I plan to conquer Earth because it will be challenging, and interesting, and life is a game, and it’s more fun to win.
“But, yes, as a side effect, your people will be much better off.�
The emperor paused. “And not necessarily at the cost of billions of lives,� he added. “That’s where you come in, Noah. You have the power to help reduce this number dramatically, possibly to near zero. And even if the number were in the billions, your people are racing toward the same self-annihilation we’ve seen on other human planets. It’s a wonder you’ve avoided this fate as long as you have. Your civilization is coming apart at the seams. Your so-called freedoms have led you to the brink.
“We, on the other hand, never developed weapons of mass destruction. Because we didn’t need them. And when we conquer Earth, we’ll destroy all of yours.�
He paused to let this sink in. “I can say with certainty that Coria isn’t going to self-destruct,� he continued. “Can you say the same about Earth?”�
----------------
Yours is a pure democracy. And the eight council members in this room are all volunteers—part-time volunteers—who can only serve for a maximum of five years. I can’t applaud that enough. My own country was founded on the principle of citizen legislators, working part-time or leaving the farm for a few years to do their civic duty before returning. The idea wasn’t to create a class of career politicians, detached from the common man for decades, and in it solely to accumulate personal power and wealth.
“In my own view,� I continued, “the only people qualified to help govern are those who have no interest in doing so. Those who need a metaphorical gun put to their heads to get them to accept the job. Anyone who actively seeks out these roles shouldn’t be allowed to have them. I admire the fact that your council members can’t nominate themselves. That you’re here to serve, and for no other reason.
----------------
We’ve bitten off more than an ocean-full of blue whales can chew.
----------------
Stories make connections. Connections lead to memories. Memories are the infrastructure of love.
----------------
Every group of people I ask thinks the world is more frightening, more violent, and more hopeless—in short, more dramatic—than it really is.
----------------
On average across the globe, human beings are wealthier, healthier, more literate, longer lived, and safer than at any time in history. But, ironically, we’re also more pessimistic and stressed out than ever before. Many of us feel like hamsters running on a never-ending but ever-accelerating wheel.
“Because of this rising stress, more and more of us are seeking an escape, and there are more and more avenues of addiction to turn to. And addiction itself dramatically increases stress, resulting in a nightmarish vicious circle.�
She paused to collect her thoughts. “Worse,� she continued, “the increase in the number of addictive lures isn’t just random. Brilliant minds around the world are working to enhance the addictive properties of numerous products. The result is that even though addiction is at unprecedented, epidemic levels, it only shows signs of increasing. Neurosis, depression, anxiety, and addiction afflict a higher percentage of the population than ever before.�
“If the world is better than ever,� I asked, “why are we more stressed than ever?�
“Because while we hate to admit it, we’re still animals. Primitives. Our brains are still those of cavemen, well suited to working in small, close-knit clans to stay alive. But this is no longer the case—by a long shot. Instead of being brothers-in-arms with small groups of people, we’re impacted by an endless parade of people we’ll never meet.�
The professor paused to let this sink in.
“Then, too,� she continued, “we’re more polarized than ever, more propagandized than ever. And this is only getting worse as new tech, especially social media and 24/7 news, divide us. First, we’re each getting individualized news feeds, so no two debaters are even working from the same set of facts, the same objective reality. And social media provides an anonymous platform to spew venom, to unleash our worst selves on each other, bypassing the normal restraints that evolution has built into us when interacting in person.�
Singh paused and returned her glass to the table in front of her. “Our tech ensures we’re always connected, always reachable, always on call. Which is stressful enough. But even worse, the tech is designed to worm its way into our minds, tempting us into devoting more and more attention to it. As I mentioned, we’re in a society filled with people hell bent on doing whatever they can to addict us. It’s a war for your brain.
“The alcohol industry, the gambling industry, the tobacco industry, the drug cartels, and many others have long done whatever they could get away with to better addict their customers. Then designer drugs came along, offering more potent, faster-acting highs that make them more addictive than ever before.
“But it goes far beyond substance abuse. Over the past few decades we’ve invented entirely new classes of products. Products that lead to what is called behavioral addiction.�
I stared at the professor, absolutely riveted. Addiction was something I knew little about, and I was finding it more fascinating than I would have guessed.
“Gambling has always been highly addictive,� she continued. “But now we have gambling online. No need to travel to underground gambling dens or seek out the glitter of Las Vegas. Now you can become addicted and lose your life savings from the comfort of your own home.
“And that’s only the beginning. The internet may be mankind’s greatest tool, but it’s also our most dangerous gateway to behavioral addiction. With cell phones being its most potent delivery vehicle. Now we have a wide variety of addictive products and activities that never existed before. Online pornography. Texting and emails. Virtual reality. Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Cable and internet news that never sleeps. Video games. Numerous streaming services with endless bingeable offerings.
“And advertisements. Everywhere. Finely tuned to your exact interests. Chasing you wherever you roam.
“We’ve gone from the simple, nomadic lifestyle our brains were evolved to thrive in, working in harmony with close clan-mates, to being plugged in every moment we’re awake. And while plugged in, we’re bombarded with advertisements, social media, and previously unheard-of products, each tailor-made to set a hook in our cheek and reel us in. An entire world vying for our clicks and eyeballs.”�
Singh shook her head in disgust. “And behind the scenes, an army of experts going to great lengths to addict us.
----------------
Less than two hours later, I found myself in the portal room once again, but this time I had company.
While I had been inside the first time, Emma hadn’t been idle. She had ordered the Cameroon base to prepare smart mines, far more powerful than those Hankey had used, with all of our faces on the approved list. Now that we had found the portal, she was intent on making sure that any allies Hankey might have on Earth couldn’t escape to Coria
----------------
The untold trillions of nanites would use themselves as building blocks when structures were requested, mimicking wood or glass or marble, unless a telepathic order specified that actual wood, or glass, or marble should be used. In these cases, the nanites under the floor could convert raw material into the exact molecular structure of the material requested, so a table wasn’t just mimicking mahogany, it was mahogany.
----------------
We’re all familiar with the nature versus nurture debate. But these other worlds, each founded with the identical starter set of progenitors, can reveal fascinating insight into ingrained human tendencies. There is something called convergent evolution, by which different organisms develop similar traits in response to similar necessities. In the same way, different populations of human beings tend to respond positively to the same shapes and textures. To similar music and art. Humanity tends to solve the same problems in much the same ways.
----------------
So even on Earth, Terrans had once been at the very top of the endangered species list. Not that the predators, natural disasters, and diseases that were killing them off at the time had much sympathy. Our ancestors managed to hang on, but it was touch and go for a long time, and we avoided extinction by the narrowest of margins.
----------------
we’ve had limited success at winning elected positions. And the American presidency seems forever out of reach.�
“Why is that?� asked Valerie.
“Because in your political system, neither brilliance, nor even basic competence, seem to be prerequisites for getting elected to an office. Instead, the skills required seem to be popularity, and an ability to lie shamelessly with every breath, make false promises, and trash your opponents.�
I nodded in disgust. “I wish I could say you were wrong.�
----------------
I admire a man who can keep his sense of humor in less than favorable circumstances.
----------------
Your people dream of achieving a colorblind society, but we’ve been colorblind for thousands of years. Competence is rewarded, and incompetence is punished. Period. We don’t discriminate based on any other factor, and we don’t pit one group against another.
----------------
The human psyche isn’t quite ready for these advances, even as you crave them. Instead of building relationships, taking time to enjoy the outdoors, living a simple, fulfilling life, Terrans often rush around with their noses in one electronic device after another, multitasking far beyond the human ability to multitask
----------------
the past fifty of your years, you’ve improved your health, longevity, literacy, quality of life, prosperity, and everything else. Dramatically. Yet almost all of you believe the opposite is true. Why? Because your news and social media is almost all negative. All alarming. All divisive. You’ve become more pessimistic, more tribal, than ever before. Your politicians ever more corrupt, manipulative, and self-serving
----------------
Let me compare Coria to Earth. In the past hundred years, more of you have died in battle, from drug overdoses, or from crime, than have died from these causes on Coria in the last eight thousand. You’re more neurotic and miserable than we’ve ever been. You have wars raging even now. You have an entire generation whose minds have been rewired by the internet. Who are so used to constant stimulation and jumping from hyperlink to hyperlink that they’re largely incapable of anything but superficial thought. And who hide behind anonymity to spew venom online, displaying the worst behavior our joint species has to offer
----------------
“Of course not. I intend to conquer Earth for purely selfish reasons. Or haven’t you been paying attention? I plan to conquer Earth because it will be challenging, and interesting, and life is a game, and it’s more fun to win.
“But, yes, as a side effect, your people will be much better off.�
The emperor paused. “And not necessarily at the cost of billions of lives,� he added. “That’s where you come in, Noah. You have the power to help reduce this number dramatically, possibly to near zero. And even if the number were in the billions, your people are racing toward the same self-annihilation we’ve seen on other human planets. It’s a wonder you’ve avoided this fate as long as you have. Your civilization is coming apart at the seams. Your so-called freedoms have led you to the brink.
“We, on the other hand, never developed weapons of mass destruction. Because we didn’t need them. And when we conquer Earth, we’ll destroy all of yours.�
He paused to let this sink in. “I can say with certainty that Coria isn’t going to self-destruct,� he continued. “Can you say the same about Earth?”�
----------------
Yours is a pure democracy. And the eight council members in this room are all volunteers—part-time volunteers—who can only serve for a maximum of five years. I can’t applaud that enough. My own country was founded on the principle of citizen legislators, working part-time or leaving the farm for a few years to do their civic duty before returning. The idea wasn’t to create a class of career politicians, detached from the common man for decades, and in it solely to accumulate personal power and wealth.
“In my own view,� I continued, “the only people qualified to help govern are those who have no interest in doing so. Those who need a metaphorical gun put to their heads to get them to accept the job. Anyone who actively seeks out these roles shouldn’t be allowed to have them. I admire the fact that your council members can’t nominate themselves. That you’re here to serve, and for no other reason.
----------------
We’ve bitten off more than an ocean-full of blue whales can chew.
----------------
Stories make connections. Connections lead to memories. Memories are the infrastructure of love.
----------------
Every group of people I ask thinks the world is more frightening, more violent, and more hopeless—in short, more dramatic—than it really is.
August 21, 2023
Nearly stopped reading halfway through.
The main character is unbearably cringe. His only character flaws are being too clever and too handsome. His only development consisted of him falling more in love with his fellow agent. And the narration reads like a horned up 17 year old. Constant m'lady energy, humble bragging, simping for Elon Musk, etc.
The story itself, at its core, is interesting. Portals leading to other worlds has a ton of potential. Too bad there is zero mention of them until like 40% the way through the book. I had to check the cover a few times to make sure I wasn't reading a James Bond fan fic.
The central theme -- also interesting, and has potential. But there's still the overarching problem of pacing. Once you muscle through the first 40%, the theme is mansplained to you for the next 20%, and is a thinly veiled social commentary.
You might be thinking wow, 60% the way through, not a lot of room left for the story to progress and lead to a climactic ending. Well you are correct. Despite other shortcomings, I actually enjoyed the worldbuilding, and I hung in there hoping it wouldn't go to waste. But here I am, disappointed, and wishing for what could have been.
The main character is unbearably cringe. His only character flaws are being too clever and too handsome. His only development consisted of him falling more in love with his fellow agent. And the narration reads like a horned up 17 year old. Constant m'lady energy, humble bragging, simping for Elon Musk, etc.
The story itself, at its core, is interesting. Portals leading to other worlds has a ton of potential. Too bad there is zero mention of them until like 40% the way through the book. I had to check the cover a few times to make sure I wasn't reading a James Bond fan fic.
The central theme -- also interesting, and has potential. But there's still the overarching problem of pacing. Once you muscle through the first 40%, the theme is mansplained to you for the next 20%, and is a thinly veiled social commentary.
You might be thinking wow, 60% the way through, not a lot of room left for the story to progress and lead to a climactic ending. Well you are correct. Despite other shortcomings, I actually enjoyed the worldbuilding, and I hung in there hoping it wouldn't go to waste. But here I am, disappointed, and wishing for what could have been.
October 20, 2023
I did not expect to like this book…but read it anyway thinking it would be good for me to try something different � science fiction. I loved Star Wars & similar films on the screen but didn’t think I would enjoy reading a book about AIs, technology, portals, beings from other planets, etc. But something happened with this novel. I wanted to know how scenarios might play out when Earth beings communicate with others from another planet - after all, our government is continually teasing us with the idea of ETs, UAPs, and life on other planets. This is a future to start preparing for! Fiction or otherwise!
In this novel, the main character Noah is a super soldier, Tech Ops guy. His working partner is a woman named Ashley, who he deeply loves…but it’s not corny. Addictions, violence and fear on our planet are topics. How portals function is a main theme - how and who manages them, where are they, are they consistent, are there rules when passing through them, etc.
I found this exploration fascinating. It was a page turner with crazy twists and ideas to ponder! Highly recommend as we go forward with our own dilemmas regarding other planets, AIs, ETs, and other humanoids.
In this novel, the main character Noah is a super soldier, Tech Ops guy. His working partner is a woman named Ashley, who he deeply loves…but it’s not corny. Addictions, violence and fear on our planet are topics. How portals function is a main theme - how and who manages them, where are they, are they consistent, are there rules when passing through them, etc.
I found this exploration fascinating. It was a page turner with crazy twists and ideas to ponder! Highly recommend as we go forward with our own dilemmas regarding other planets, AIs, ETs, and other humanoids.
April 11, 2024
2.5 stars ... just okay for me. Starts off a little "Mission Impossible" with high tech and high stakes. Turns into a "save the scientist(s)" then we get to the "portals" and "other Earths" and aliens? Super sci-fi. Futuristic, but LOTS of references to today's movies and such.
Actually, one of the most interesting parts was a discussion of addiction - talking about social media and cell phones and the like. It was really interesting ... nothing I haven't heard before, but a good addition to a novel like this ( also discussed the "addiction" of Facebook and how it's algorithms TRY to increase that addiction).
This reminded me a little of "A Door Into Time" by Shawn Inmon ... and unfortunately, that isn't a good thing, as disliked that book. I think some of the negativity of the association rolled over here. They really aren't even alike, but something about the dialog, tone and presentation. It too had a portal (but it was to an earlier Earth/primitive). It was Kragdon-ah, here it was Corian. Both start with the "k" sound/three syllables ... and that's enough to make a connection to me ;)
This was free for me, included in Prime Reading ... I was able to borrow the Kindle copy and the audio included in the program. It is an Audible exclusive.
There were nine scowls (a word my son dislikes). None of the other words I watch for. No proFanity. Some sex, not explicit.
Actually, one of the most interesting parts was a discussion of addiction - talking about social media and cell phones and the like. It was really interesting ... nothing I haven't heard before, but a good addition to a novel like this ( also discussed the "addiction" of Facebook and how it's algorithms TRY to increase that addiction).
This reminded me a little of "A Door Into Time" by Shawn Inmon ... and unfortunately, that isn't a good thing, as disliked that book. I think some of the negativity of the association rolled over here. They really aren't even alike, but something about the dialog, tone and presentation. It too had a portal (but it was to an earlier Earth/primitive). It was Kragdon-ah, here it was Corian. Both start with the "k" sound/three syllables ... and that's enough to make a connection to me ;)
This was free for me, included in Prime Reading ... I was able to borrow the Kindle copy and the audio included in the program. It is an Audible exclusive.
There were nine scowls (a word my son dislikes). None of the other words I watch for. No proFanity. Some sex, not explicit.
August 14, 2023
The Author Blew My Mind!
I've read a lot of good books, but this one is spectacular. I loved reading every minute of it. Character development is excellent, but the plot is incredible.
I can only hope that we can figure out how to make it all work for ourselves one day
Anyone know when the next portal opens up nearby?
I've read a lot of good books, but this one is spectacular. I loved reading every minute of it. Character development is excellent, but the plot is incredible.
I can only hope that we can figure out how to make it all work for ourselves one day
Anyone know when the next portal opens up nearby?
August 11, 2023
Thought-Provoking
Portals was a fun Sci-fi adventure, and even more so provided commentary on our world, particularly in terms of our addictions. Definitely will read more books by Douglas E Richard’s!
Portals was a fun Sci-fi adventure, and even more so provided commentary on our world, particularly in terms of our addictions. Definitely will read more books by Douglas E Richard’s!
August 7, 2023
Out of this world
I stumbled upon this book most likely in amazon.com. Now that I have read it I am addicted to Douglas E Richards. Now I’m going down the list to start reading the rest of his books. This book Portals was so fascinating and almost believable. The possibility of traveling through a portal is something that maybe my grandchildren will experience. I recommend this book for pure entertainment and an eye-opener.
I stumbled upon this book most likely in amazon.com. Now that I have read it I am addicted to Douglas E Richards. Now I’m going down the list to start reading the rest of his books. This book Portals was so fascinating and almost believable. The possibility of traveling through a portal is something that maybe my grandchildren will experience. I recommend this book for pure entertainment and an eye-opener.
Read
December 19, 2022DNF
не могу поймать ход мысли автора, не моя книжка
не могу поймать ход мысли автора, не моя книжка
August 6, 2023
Interesting Characters
A crazy supposition, but an engaging story. A witty protagonist with believable colleagues and a worthy villain. Also some commentary on the state of humanity today.
A crazy supposition, but an engaging story. A witty protagonist with believable colleagues and a worthy villain. Also some commentary on the state of humanity today.
July 27, 2023
Not as great as I expected based on the handful of reviews I read. Much of what I think of a book: continuity issues and errors, muddled descriptions, grammar and punctuation, etc. can be found in my notes that I write as I’m reading. I upload them for public viewing, because I often will state whether or not I am enjoying a book enough to put it down, or if I think I might not finish it.
I almost didn’t finish this one.
Some of the battles were too long and over-described. I didn’t care about the characters enough, and I wouldn’t have been too disappointed if a lead had been killed. That’s not a strong recommendation in regard to character development.
I did finish it, but I won’t read another if other follow in a series. The topics that would have been most interesting are not addressed enough: other worlds, seeing more than one and describing the other world’s differences from Earth.
The writer is very good at his craft, and the concept is very interesting. I think that this book might only be the first in a series, which could be why “cooler stuff� isn’t delved into more colorfully.
I almost didn’t finish this one.
Some of the battles were too long and over-described. I didn’t care about the characters enough, and I wouldn’t have been too disappointed if a lead had been killed. That’s not a strong recommendation in regard to character development.
I did finish it, but I won’t read another if other follow in a series. The topics that would have been most interesting are not addressed enough: other worlds, seeing more than one and describing the other world’s differences from Earth.
The writer is very good at his craft, and the concept is very interesting. I think that this book might only be the first in a series, which could be why “cooler stuff� isn’t delved into more colorfully.
July 26, 2023
Noah and Ashley are field agents for a group tasked with protecting humanity from misuse of advanced technology. They discover portals linking Earth to other planets. They learn of a plan developed by aliens on the planet Corian to conquer Earth. Only Noah and Ashley stand in the way. Our heroes are too formidable and results become too predictable when they repeatedly overcome seemingly impossible odds. Noah comes off as an arrogant know-it-all. Ashley is also too perfect, but at least she has a good excuse, as the reader will learn. Can they save Earth? What can't they do? The book is creative and explores intriguing possibilities and dangers resulting from advanced technology. Some parts read like a college lecture. Some things don't make sense, however. For example, if there really were portals, it's doubtful they would come with so many random limitations and rules. The plot gets far-fetched and some technology feels like it was conceived only to smooth out rough spots in the story. Such can be expected in this genre, however. Overall, it's an entertaining read and quite the adventure.
September 25, 2022
Hi, it's me again. Once again, this isn't a review, just me trying to reach those who follow my reviews to let them know I have a new release out. This one is called Portals, and I think anyone who has enjoyed any of my other novels will likely enjoy this one also.
Thanks!
Doug
Douglas E. Richards
Thanks!
Doug
Douglas E. Richards
July 29, 2023
Too much techno babble
I found it very difficult to get engaged in this book. There is too much pseudo science and techno babble for my taste.
I found it very difficult to get engaged in this book. There is too much pseudo science and techno babble for my taste.
July 27, 2023
A free Kindle book, through prime. The plot is a bit silly, kind of a fantastical sci-fi technology driven plot filled with deus ex machina over and over. It moves quick and is an easy read. After the book ended I enjoyed the section by the author on his research and motivations.
July 23, 2023
I have never read a book ny this author that I did not love--stayed up late to finish this one!
Do you enjoy near future thrillers with some science fiction thrown in----and some things that might be happening right now? Portals is all of this and more. If you have never read any of this author's books you really don't know what you are missing! After the story ends he actually goes through and lets you know what might be real right now--what might be happening in the near future (scientists are working on it) or pure imagination. Lots of twist and turns and you will not expect them---
Do you enjoy near future thrillers with some science fiction thrown in----and some things that might be happening right now? Portals is all of this and more. If you have never read any of this author's books you really don't know what you are missing! After the story ends he actually goes through and lets you know what might be real right now--what might be happening in the near future (scientists are working on it) or pure imagination. Lots of twist and turns and you will not expect them---
July 16, 2023
Wow! It’s not often that I can not put a book down. This awesome book is one you just can’t stop reading and thinking about. The action is non stop. The characters are lovable. Lots of twists and surprises. There are aliens of a kind; you need to read the book to understand. The concepts and tech are thrilling. The only thing that was disappointing was that at the end�. I wanted more. So my humble recommendation is to run quickly and buy this book to read. Y’all will love ❤️ it.
Rich
Rich
July 14, 2023
Travel Through Time and Space to Multiple Worlds
This face-paced Sci-fi adventure is a love story, and a contemporary view on the benefits and curses of technology, politics, manipulation and showcases many human traits. Dream of going through portals from Earth to untold numbers of planets where humans exist. Ponder the differences from our society and decide if ours is the best, or if there are ways to make it better. I recommend this book.
This face-paced Sci-fi adventure is a love story, and a contemporary view on the benefits and curses of technology, politics, manipulation and showcases many human traits. Dream of going through portals from Earth to untold numbers of planets where humans exist. Ponder the differences from our society and decide if ours is the best, or if there are ways to make it better. I recommend this book.
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