Review: Maximum Impact

John Fagan is the man who predicted the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 in an online chat room. He participated in a discussion as to what would constitute the perfect terrorist attack – but never dreamt that it would only be the warm-up and that he would be coerced into participating in an even bigger scheme, designed to destroy the US. Jeannie Reese is another prodigy, but she works for the Government. Following the devastating attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, she is put in charge of bringing those responsible to justice. But will she be able to track down Fagan before the others do?

Astonishingly, MAXIMUM IMPACT is Henderson’s debut novel. It first appeared, rather fittingly, as an e-book, before being picked up by mainstream publishers and hitting bookshelves around the world. For a debut novel, Henderson has written an excellent and detailed thriller and it is clear that he has really done his research. There is so much computer and technical information included that, at times, the novel can start to bog down somewhat, but this is a very minor issue.

Henderson’s characters are interesting, although at times, it appeared that he was trying a little bit too hard to make Fagan and Reese as “nerdy” as possible, to ensure that the readers really did understand that they were outside the borders of normal society. There is no doubt that MAXIMUM IMPACT would make an excellent movie, as it has all the required elements. In fact, it seems to have been crafted with Hollywood in mind, as the action is ratcheted up throughout the novel, culminating in scenes that really do stretch the boundaries of credulity. That said, current Hollywood thrillers are becoming increasingly unbelievable and I do not feel that we can fault MAXIMUM IMPACT for that.

An exciting and fast-paced thriller that will appeal to many, particularly fans of Clancy, Crichton and others.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM

Book Review: Maximum Impact