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3.98 AVERAGE
3.98 AVERAGE
This was my first book finished in 2022 and I'm so glad it was a winner! I actually finished it in 2 days, I literally could not put it down. We continue to follow Chris Shane's adventures as a Haden in the FBI and the full cast of characters from John Scalzi's first book, Lock In, is back. Because the world has already been established in the first book, Scalzi gets to further explore this "near future" world and really have fun with it. The witty repartee is as entertaining as ever, the villain is predictable but the journey to the big reveal was incredibly satisfying. I want more of this world and I want it now!
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
I literally could not put this book down. Listened to the Will Wheaton audible version and he was great too.
Well, that book was inhaled rather quickly. I listened to the audiobook read by Wil Wheaton and couldn't stop listening. I enjoyed catching up with Chris Shane again. It's been 3 years since I read "Lock In" where the story of Haden's Syndrome is first introduced.
I feel have a demanding job so I want high-quality storytelling when I am not working. I want a nicely crafted story, and John Scalzi delivers. My brain cells get some very nice exercise as they enjoy the story, the humor, and the world in which the story is set. When you top that off when Wil Wheaton telling the tale, well, I have to go to 5 stars. I think Wil Wheaton was Chris Shane. I believe it was chapter 10 that ended on a certain note so that when Wil Wheaton announced "Chapter 11", I swear I could hear a tone in his voice that sounded like he knew I was sitting there with my eyebrows raised up to my hairline and he was enjoying the fact that I was enjoying the tale. He sound like he was thoroughly enjoying telling the tale, and that made it more enjoyable for me. Or was he simply channeling John Scalzi being pleased that a reader/listener was very entertained?
I feel have a demanding job so I want high-quality storytelling when I am not working. I want a nicely crafted story, and John Scalzi delivers. My brain cells get some very nice exercise as they enjoy the story, the humor, and the world in which the story is set. When you top that off when Wil Wheaton telling the tale, well, I have to go to 5 stars. I think Wil Wheaton was Chris Shane. I believe it was chapter 10 that ended on a certain note so that when Wil Wheaton announced "Chapter 11", I swear I could hear a tone in his voice that sounded like he knew I was sitting there with my eyebrows raised up to my hairline and he was enjoying the fact that I was enjoying the tale. He sound like he was thoroughly enjoying telling the tale, and that made it more enjoyable for me. Or was he simply channeling John Scalzi being pleased that a reader/listener was very entertained?
Just as good as the first. Is it bad that I want another?
adventurous
funny
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I enjoyed this book but not as much as the first one. I think the case being buried in the death soccer league made it harder for me to get into.
3.5 really. Not as good as lock in but still very enjoyable
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Five reasons to grab Head On
- You loved getting your geek on, but want the technology delivered in layman's terms. Scalzi is masterful with world-building and has created a fascinating dystopian world that feels realistic and believable. The reader quickly comprehends the Hayden virus and new technological advancements make the leap to this world seem grounded.
- If you love procedural crime novels, you will love tagging along with FBI Agents Chris Shane and his partner, Leslie Vann. The two are investigating the death of a Hilketa player who dies during the game. Clues lead them to scandal and corporate greed all while providing near-death experiences, witness tampering and Shane losing one-two-many Threeps (machines that Hadens' move around with).
- You appreciate witty humor, brilliant detective work, and strong characters. I like Agent Shane; he is direct and to the point. Scalzi lets the reader be a part of Chris's thought process as he works the case but also gives us moments with his family, friends and the daily trials of living with Haden. Secondary characters from suspects to associates added depth and further fleshed out the plot.
- The case was riveting with plenty of twists, turns, and false leads. During the investigation, it showcased how the corporate world uses laws not specifically intended for them to pad their bottom line. It was a relevant topic and added believability to the case.
- Wil Wheaton narrated, and he is perfect for this series and characters. His wide range of voices both male and female, pacing and tone enhanced an already brilliant story. His narration took the story to the next level. If you'd prefer you can listen to the story narrated by Amber Benson who does a stunning job.