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Proximity Factor
Meet Cynthia Austin, a PhD neurologist whose newest assignment from the Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) — the U.S. Department of Defense's experimental technology shop — takes her to the remote community of Gakona, Alaska, to evaluate a mysterious project gone horribly wrong.
The high-voltage, frequency-transmitting research project, whose unpredictable effects are wreaking havoc among base personnel and the surrounding community, has triggered complaints and demands for answers to the highest levels of government — who soon discover supernatural forces at work and a conspiracy that could end our world.
Reporting to Major Chesterfield, who insists the project must advance at all costs, and under the direct supervision of Ed Seeding — who relentlessly pushes her to her limits as she investigates both earthly and supernatural forces — Cynthia soon finds herself relying on a loosely assembled team of colorful locals who bring their own expertise.
Alma Qaunnaaluk, a reporter for the Juneau Empire who also moonlights as a taxi driver; Dr. Layest, a scientist who relocated from Chile after being censured for misconduct; Roger, Dr. Layest's stout assistant who's always the last to know what's going on; and Officer Calub, a hapless local police officer.
Their investigation uncovers a plan to upend our government, our institutions, and even our environment as we know it. Only to open it up to another world.
With time running out, Cynthia must quickly adapt her team's strategy and tactics, and transform herself from a diligent professional into a force to be reckoned with.
The high-voltage, frequency-transmitting research project, whose unpredictable effects are wreaking havoc among base personnel and the surrounding community, has triggered complaints and demands for answers to the highest levels of government — who soon discover supernatural forces at work and a conspiracy that could end our world.
Reporting to Major Chesterfield, who insists the project must advance at all costs, and under the direct supervision of Ed Seeding — who relentlessly pushes her to her limits as she investigates both earthly and supernatural forces — Cynthia soon finds herself relying on a loosely assembled team of colorful locals who bring their own expertise.
Alma Qaunnaaluk, a reporter for the Juneau Empire who also moonlights as a taxi driver; Dr. Layest, a scientist who relocated from Chile after being censured for misconduct; Roger, Dr. Layest's stout assistant who's always the last to know what's going on; and Officer Calub, a hapless local police officer.
Their investigation uncovers a plan to upend our government, our institutions, and even our environment as we know it. Only to open it up to another world.
With time running out, Cynthia must quickly adapt her team's strategy and tactics, and transform herself from a diligent professional into a force to be reckoned with.
231 pages, ebook
Published May 1, 2024
4 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
August 5, 2024
This was a wild ride of a story the author described as alternative reality fiction. The book was a page-turning, enthralling espionage light thriller. At the end, the author explained the cool graphics throughout the book helped him stay on track since this was his debut novel. They enhance the storyline since this would be a decent graphic novel. I look forward to reading more by this author and hope this does become a series.
November 26, 2024
Author Scott Jung's deep interest in government conspiracies and the darker side of science really shines through in this engrossing book, as does his love for his characters who are all well-developed. Proximity Factor pulls readers into a wormhole of suspense-tinged science fiction. A twisty mind-bending plot keeps the pace pumping and I also really enjoyed the links and further info given at the end of the book to help readers take a deep dive into the real world research programs and past experiments that inspired this novel. Looking forward to the next in the series!
November 8, 2024
I found Proximity Factor by Scott Jung to be a thrilling dive into the world of high-security scientific experimentation and the dark underbelly of government projects. Jung masterfully blends elements of science fiction and suspense, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The plot is fast-paced and filled with unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Cynthia's journey from a diligent professional to a force to be reckoned with is compelling and well-developed, making her a relatable and strong protagonist.
One of the standout features of Proximity Factor that I loved was is its vivid and immersive setting. The remote, icy landscapes of Alaska add a layer of isolation and tension that enhances the story's suspense. Jung's attention to detail in describing the scientific experiments and the eerie atmosphere of the research facility adds depth to the narrative, making it easy for readers to visualize and feel the stakes involved.
The novel also highlights the adrenaline created through ethical dilemmas and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition. Cynthia's struggle against rogue scientists and the uncovering of a global experiment with dystopian consequences raise important questions about the moral responsibilities of those in power.
One of the standout features of Proximity Factor that I loved was is its vivid and immersive setting. The remote, icy landscapes of Alaska add a layer of isolation and tension that enhances the story's suspense. Jung's attention to detail in describing the scientific experiments and the eerie atmosphere of the research facility adds depth to the narrative, making it easy for readers to visualize and feel the stakes involved.
The novel also highlights the adrenaline created through ethical dilemmas and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition. Cynthia's struggle against rogue scientists and the uncovering of a global experiment with dystopian consequences raise important questions about the moral responsibilities of those in power.
December 23, 2024
For fans of genre-blending fiction, the novella this exciting thriller delivers a rich selection of science fiction, mystery, fantasy, history, even an inter-dimensional doppelganger.
Author Jung convincingly brings his characters to life under the influence of government “frequencies,” descending intonations and madness. Rescue arrives from an unexpected source with uncertain motives. To inspire himself and guide his readers, Jung has also illustrated the e-book and provided an interactive index, allowing readers to learn about unfamiliar terms with a tap without interrupting the enjoyment of the story.
Author Jung convincingly brings his characters to life under the influence of government “frequencies,” descending intonations and madness. Rescue arrives from an unexpected source with uncertain motives. To inspire himself and guide his readers, Jung has also illustrated the e-book and provided an interactive index, allowing readers to learn about unfamiliar terms with a tap without interrupting the enjoyment of the story.
May 7, 2025
This book had an interesting premise of government projects gone awry. It slowed down at the 30% mark but picked back up before halfway. The version with pictures added to the creepiness, but I struggled with the writing, which was heavy on dialog and occasionally confusing dialog tags. There were also a lot of formatting issues which made it hard to read. I would rate it closer to 3.5 stars.
December 28, 2024
3.5✩
i would like to thank the author for reaching out to me to read this book!
this book was great! it had a good length and it came mostly straight to the point. definitely a page turner. i had to adjust sometimes because the switches between first and third person were a bit confusing throughout the book. the illustrations were also helpful to envision the scenes better.
i would like to thank the author for reaching out to me to read this book!
this book was great! it had a good length and it came mostly straight to the point. definitely a page turner. i had to adjust sometimes because the switches between first and third person were a bit confusing throughout the book. the illustrations were also helpful to envision the scenes better.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews