Sam's Updates en-US Sun, 11 Aug 2024 11:31:07 -0700 60 Sam's Updates 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Review6673333837 Sun, 11 Aug 2024 11:31:07 -0700 <![CDATA[Sam added 'The Serpent's Bridge']]> /review/show/6673333837 The Serpent's Bridge by S.Z. Estavillo Sam gave 5 stars to The Serpent's Bridge (The Serpent, #1) by S.Z. Estavillo
bookshelves: to-read
The Serpent’s Bridge by S.Z. Estavillo is the first book in a promised series by this talented author. The novel is a murder mystery centering on the talented, energetic, driven, no-nonsense detective, Anaya Nazario. The book keeps your attention with a constant hum of police investigations, intimate relationships (some very detailed), and suspects galore. Physically injured and slowly healing during the entire story, Nazario bounces between her investigation of Immigrant murders and multiple distressing experiences in her past that include such things as the murder of her beloved Detective Father and her failed marriage to a man she wants to hate but who keeps popping up in her investigations. When it comes to the men in her life, Nazario has some serious problems.

Pushing all her emotions into her job, Nazario tries her best to ignore her physical injuries and past traumas by concentrating on finding the culprit who might just be a serial killer. S.Z. Estavillo provides plenty of possible suspects. It is very difficult to write a review of the story because too much information will give away the plot. Some of the characters are essential to the story. Watch for Millie, Stan, Gideon, Huxley, Eric, and Gus. The novel provides multiple twists and turns leaving the reader with suspicions that the murderer is first one person, then another, then another, ad infinitum. The end result is never seen coming. Good work, S.Z. Estavillo.
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Rating757087144 Tue, 06 Aug 2024 18:28:26 -0700 <![CDATA[Sam II liked a review]]> /
U-10 by Sam B. Miller II
"I just finished reading "The U-10: A Survival Kit You Might Not Survive Using," and it was quite the ride! Right from the start, the concept hooked me—a survival kit that's basically a game of Russian roulette. You never know if you're going to get a can of soup or a grenade, and that unpredictability kept me on my toes the whole way through.

The story centers around this mysterious U-10 device, and I loved the blend of humor and suspense as the protagonist tries to figure it out. Every time they used it, I was right there with them, holding my breath to see what would happen next. The whole "anything-can-happen" vibe added a fun, chaotic energy to the plot.

The stakes are sky-high, with a secret paramilitary group, the guy who has the U-10 trying to hang onto it, and an alien who desperately wants it back. It’s a wild chase, and I really enjoyed how the book kept me guessing about who I could trust. The death squad willing to blow up Earth to get the U-10 back added a serious sense of urgency that made the story even more exciting.

The characters were a blast. They each had their own quirks and motivations, which kept things interesting. I especially liked following the protagonist as he tried to navigate the moral dilemmas the U-10 threw his way. The way the characters interacted was full of tension and unexpected humor, making it feel real and engaging.

What I really appreciated was how the book mixed action, humor, and sci-fi in a way that felt fresh. It wasn't afraid to be a bit absurd, which made it all the more entertaining. The unpredictable nature of the U-10 itself was mirrored in the story, and that kept me glued to the pages.

In the end, "The U-10: A Survival Kit You Might Not Survive Using" is a fast-paced, fun read. If you’re into sci-fi adventures with a good dose of humor and unpredictability, you’ll definitely want to check this one out. It’s a wild, enjoyable ride from start to finish!"
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Rating752206013 Wed, 24 Jul 2024 02:50:23 -0700 <![CDATA[Sam II liked a review]]> /
Evolution of F.O.R.C.E. by Sam B. Miller II
""Evolution of F.O.R.C.E.," the third installment in Sam B Miller II's "The Origin of F.O.R.C.E." series, is a high-stakes science fiction adventure that plunges readers into the heart of an interplanetary conflict. With its gripping narrative and complex characters, this book continues the thrilling saga with intensity and imagination.

The story is set on the Asiddian-conquered planet of Chrysalis, where Whatsit, an alien from Earth, leads a determined group of military strong arms in a desperate bid to save his home planet. Simultaneously, back on Earth, the highly advanced and well-trained militia known as F.O.R.C.E. stands ready to defend their world and assist in the liberation of Chrysalis, no matter the cost.

Miller deftly weaves a narrative filled with tension and urgency as time runs out for all species involved—Humans, Asiddians, and Chrysallamans. The desperation of leaders, the weariness of warriors, and the unyielding determination of heroes to secure victory and restore peace are vividly portrayed. Each character's struggle and resolve add depth to the story, making the stakes feel palpably high.

The novel's exploration of power dynamics and the thirst for victory is particularly compelling. As leaders grow increasingly bloodthirsty and power-hungry, the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by both sides become more pronounced. Miller's ability to capture these complexities adds a layer of sophistication to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple tale of good versus evil.

The action sequences are expertly crafted, providing a thrilling ride through each assault, ambush, and battle. Yet, Miller also emphasizes that victory requires more than brute force. The emphasis on technological ingenuity and strategic patience highlights the importance of intellect and innovation in warfare, offering a nuanced perspective on what it takes to win in such a high-stakes conflict.

"Evolution of F.O.R.C.E." is a fast-paced, thought-provoking addition to the series that will captivate fans and newcomers alike. Sam B Miller II has created a rich, immersive world where the fight for survival and dominance takes center stage. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys science fiction with intricate plots, complex characters, and a relentless pace. Whether you're a long-time follower of the series or just discovering it, "Evolution of F.O.R.C.E." delivers a powerful punch, leaving you eager for the next chapter in this epic saga.
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ReadStatus8163379925 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:20:16 -0700 <![CDATA[Sam wants to read 'The Serpent's Bridge']]> /review/show/6673333837 The Serpent's Bridge by S.Z. Estavillo Sam wants to read The Serpent's Bridge by S.Z. Estavillo
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