A Slow Burning

ISBN: 1-7887-4305-8 Order from: Recorded Books

This at times intense novel of science and harted, suffers from a convoluted and sometimes implausible plot, excessive verbosity, lack of likeable characters, and conspicuous lack of subtlety.

Reviewed by David on November 29, 2000

Genre: Mystery (Nanotechnology, Medical)

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of A Slow Burning.

Detective Nat Hennessey of NYPD is not happy with Dr. Cush Walker. A well-known brain scientist, not only is Cush a former lover of Nat's bride, but also the inventor of a new brain scan which can predict the propensity for racially motivated violence. While not considering himself a bigot, Nat, along with other veterans of the force, is bitterly resentful of the suggestions for mandatory scanning of NYPD personnel.

When a dangerous decision threatens the lives of Nat and his fiance Camilla, the detective is even less happy to rely on Walker's expertise as a doctor. However, Dr. Walker's other invention, a dangerous technique for brain repair, may prevent death, at the risk of a horrible decease.

Full Review: This is a long and at times intense book. There are several painful scenes, usually described with a great deal of detail. While not completely incapable of subtlety, in most cases, the author suggests a point, explains it in detail, and then recollects it a few times later in the book. This may be a good teaching technique, but proves to be highly irritating in fiction. The characters are fairly well drawn—although not very likable. Nat, for instance, proves highly ineffective for much of the book, despite his stated reputation of intelligence and perspicacity. Camilla, the most innocent of the three protagonists, is rather superficial in her decisions of affection. Cush Walker—perhaps the most ambiguous and well-described character here—makes an unattractively unethical decision at the end of the book, which is strangely accepted by everyone around him.

The scientific premise here is fascinating, and could stand more exploration. However, the trappings of the invention—particularly the associated nanotechnology—are simplistic and unbelievable. There is a strong resemblance to the classical and outdated convention of a brilliant eccentric scientist who invents improbably advanced technology without the slightest cooperation with the rest of the scientific community.

While interesting in its scientific premise, and showing skill is individuals chapters, this book is not patricularly enjoyable due to significant padding, improbable plot, awkward scientific props and lack of sympathetic characters.

Overall: 4; Plot: 4; Characters: 4.5; Style: 4; World-building: 5; Originality: 6;

ISBN: 1-7887-4305-8 Order from: Recorded Books