Reviews
Bestselling Author Blurbs
New York Times Bestselling Author C.J. Lyons
“Brainrush explores the bonds of friendship while pushing the boundaries of science, creating a compelling, action-packed thriller with a climax that’s a knock-out!”
USA Today Bestselling Author Rebecca Forster
“If this startling debut doesn’t have you turning pages at breakneck speed, then you’re not paying attention. Rich characters, crackling dialogue, and a climactic sequence that is stunning, enervating, and innovative all at once, Richard Bard is a voice to be reckoned with.”
Editorial Reviews
Publisher’s Weekly Review #1
“A terrifically entertaining thriller with three finely executed set pieces strung together with nice characterization and a story that culminates in a particularly outrageous and fitting conclusion. Especially successful is Bronson, an amiable, low-key tough guy able to rescue his princess, survive brutality, and retain a sense of humor.”
Publisher’s Weekly Review #2
“An inventive and compelling hybrid of science fiction, adventure, and political thriller. Rather than end the novel with a simple rescue operation, however, this author provides a far more intriguing and unexpected conclusion.”
Note: The Publisher’s Weekly Reviews were based on the entire unpublished manuscript.
Midwest Book Review, November 2011
“Coming out of something stronger is usually a good thing, but Jake Bronson quickly realizes some things are just as much blessings as they are curses. “Brainrush” follows Jake Bronson as he comes into new cognitive powers, but finds him targeted by both sides of the war on terror, as he embarks on a worldwide journey to save his daughter, and maybe humanity along the way. “Brainrush” is a fine and hard to put down thriller, recommended.” Carl Logan, Reviewer
Fiction Book Reviews, November 2011
“5.0out of 5 stars. An EXCELLENT read. Well-developed characters, subtle character interplays that make you guess about their coming relationships, and fast-paced action. I look forward very much to reading Richard Bard’s next work.”
LiveToRead-Krystal/Blogspot.com, by Krystal Larson Sept 2011
What would you do for a super brain? Certainly not what the main character in this novel has to go through. A super brain will always be coveted and sought by those who would exploit it, Jake has to do everything in his power to avoid being used by some of the world’s largest and strongest terrorist organizations. One such organization is headed by Battista and would do anything to harness Jake’s newfound intellect.
The story begins with Jake about to die-give or take a week or two. The reader will immediately be drawn to Jake, he is a sympathetic character. Jake is one of those characters that the reader knows will literally overcome whatever is thrown his way. He’s touch, caring, and protective. The reader will enjoy following Jake through the novel, learning along with him about his unusual cognitive powers. The other secondary characters are fun to get to know as well, specifically Jake’s friends and love interest. They round out the novel.
The events are very fast-paced, the reader will not be bored; this read promises a thriller and delivers. The author clearly has a deep knowledge of the military, the more exciting scenes in the book are very realistic-from the threats to the fighting. This book starts out with a bang and ends with one as well, the action is carried through the entire novel, never waning. This book is terrific for young adults/adults. 5 Stars
BlogCritics Book Reviews, by Marty Dodge Sept 2011
An MRI inexplicably transforms a combat pilot in such a way that it soon enough tosses him into a life and death struggle with terrorists bent on evil. The plot is intriguing and also fraught with pratfalls. Fortunately Richard Bard, himself a former Air Force pilot, manages to make the plot believable enough to keep the reader interested.
This thriller — as Brainrush is subtitle — is yet another pot-boiler that would not be out of place in the racks of an airport bookstore. But unlike many it manages to move along at a decent pace, while never making the leap from convenient plot set-pieces with little development of characters and story.
If I have any criticism of the book, its that Part 1 (of 3) drags a little bit and does not necessarily grab the reader as it should. Part II and III with their exotic locations really ramp up the attractiveness of this book. The book is clearly written with an eye towards the cinematic, but it never reads like a novelized script.
Brainrush has a sequel which is previewed at the end of the book, as is common these days. Despite this the book does not “leave you hanging” and is suitably complete so that you don’t feel anything was left until next time.
Brainrush is just what the doctor ordered for your next long haul journey. Personally I am looking forward to Bard’s next effort starring Jake Bronson.
