Dead Head
by Allen Wyler
Published by Forge Books (February 2007)
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Reviewed by Brenda Snodgrass
Abducted at gunpoint by terrorists, brain surgeon Dr. Russell Lawton, thinks this is a mistake--what could they possibly want with him? To his horror, he finds out they have kidnapped his only child, Angela, and are threatening to bury her alive if he does not help them with a plan to carry out an attack on the United States.
The terrorists have a diabolic plan including totally obliterating all of America's computer systems, thereby throwing the nation into complete chaos. True to form, the terrorists will use explosive devices to execute their plan. Meanwhile we are given, glimpses of little Angela and her experiences as a hostage. The FBI became involved when Russell's ex-wife, Marci, accuses Russell of kidnapping his own child, (due to a brutal child custody suit). With the clock still running, the situation results in a macabre surgery that Russell must perform to satisfy the wants of the terrorists in order to preserve his daughter's life
Russell works for days on end, with little rest or nourishment. The constant threats begin to work on him emotionally and mentally. Being hounded by these intruders always observing his life is maddening, and they outman him and he can see no good coming from any of this.
Dead Head is a medical thriller written by a real brain surgeon. Although there are many medical scenes, these are usually explained in dialogue or monologue to help readers understand the action. This form of writing is very enjoyable, and maintains thereader's attention. Very realistic characters also draw you into the fast-paced action.It's got the good guy versus the bad guys element coupled with a well-written novel.
"Sure I know the syndrome. (locked in) It's a neurological disorder characterized by complete paralysis of voluntary muscles except those that control eye movement. It could be the result of a head injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or drug overdose..."
Armchair Interviews says: A thriller filled with terrorists to make any reader's day.