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The Immortality Code
Allie Keane's breakthrough in quantum computing holds the key to unlocking eternity. But can she survive long enough to use it? A riveting science-fiction thriller from the million-copy NY Times bestselling author.
When Allie Keane makes a revolutionary discovery in quantum computing, she kicks the ultimate hornets' nest. She doesn't know it, but a hidden battle for tech supremacy is raging around the world, and whoever controls her discovery will dominate the globe. Soon, Allie is being hunted by ruthless forces desperate to learn her secret, and only Zachary Reed, a gifted operative within a shadowy government agency, stands in the way.
But as extraordinary as Allie's breakthrough is, it holds the key to unleashing something far bigger. An unrelated technology thousands of years beyond current science. A staggering advance capable of bringing about a utopia, rewriting the laws of life and death, and helping humanity spread throughout the stars.
As long as it doesn't wipe out all life on Earth before that can happen . . .
The Immortality Code is a masterful thriller. One crammed with breakneck action, unexpected twists, mind-blowing science, and ethical dilemmas readers will be contemplating long after they've read the last page.
When Allie Keane makes a revolutionary discovery in quantum computing, she kicks the ultimate hornets' nest. She doesn't know it, but a hidden battle for tech supremacy is raging around the world, and whoever controls her discovery will dominate the globe. Soon, Allie is being hunted by ruthless forces desperate to learn her secret, and only Zachary Reed, a gifted operative within a shadowy government agency, stands in the way.
But as extraordinary as Allie's breakthrough is, it holds the key to unleashing something far bigger. An unrelated technology thousands of years beyond current science. A staggering advance capable of bringing about a utopia, rewriting the laws of life and death, and helping humanity spread throughout the stars.
As long as it doesn't wipe out all life on Earth before that can happen . . .
The Immortality Code is a masterful thriller. One crammed with breakneck action, unexpected twists, mind-blowing science, and ethical dilemmas readers will be contemplating long after they've read the last page.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2021
2105 people are currently reading
673 people want to read
About the author
Douglas E. Richards
77 books1,723 followersWrite to Doug at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and visit the author's website to be notified of new releases.
Douglas E. Richards is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of science-fiction thrillers that have sold more than three million copies (see list below). Richards has been celebrated for his gripping, thought-provoking works that blend cutting-edge scientific concepts with heart-pounding narratives.
Richards burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, WIRED, published in 2010. The novel garnered widespread acclaim for its ingenious combination of scientific speculation and thrilling storytelling. This success set the stage for a series of bestselling novels, each marked by meticulous research, riveting plots, and characters that resonate with readers.
Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives, Richards has become a go-to author for readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-fueled reading experience. His works delve deeply into the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific breakthroughs and the potential impact of technology on society.
A former Director of Biotechnology Licensing at Bristol Myers Squibb and a former biotechnology executive, Richards earned a BS in microbiology from the Ohio State University, a master's degree in genetic engineering from the University of Wisconsin--where he engineered mutant viruses now named after him--and an MBA from the University of Chicago.
The author has two grown children and lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and dog.
Richards loves hearing from readers, and always replies, so feel free to write to him at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and address him as "Doug". You can also Friend Richards on Facebook at Douglas E. Richards Author, or visit his website, where you can sign up to be notified of new releases.
SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS
SERIES
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
UNLEASHED (Nick Hall 4)
SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)
THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)
STANDALONE NOVELS
QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
THE CURE (To become KU eligible for the first time in 2023)
THE BREAKTHROUGH EFFECT
Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
DEVIL'S SWORD
Douglas E. Richards is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of science-fiction thrillers that have sold more than three million copies (see list below). Richards has been celebrated for his gripping, thought-provoking works that blend cutting-edge scientific concepts with heart-pounding narratives.
Richards burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, WIRED, published in 2010. The novel garnered widespread acclaim for its ingenious combination of scientific speculation and thrilling storytelling. This success set the stage for a series of bestselling novels, each marked by meticulous research, riveting plots, and characters that resonate with readers.
Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives, Richards has become a go-to author for readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-fueled reading experience. His works delve deeply into the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific breakthroughs and the potential impact of technology on society.
A former Director of Biotechnology Licensing at Bristol Myers Squibb and a former biotechnology executive, Richards earned a BS in microbiology from the Ohio State University, a master's degree in genetic engineering from the University of Wisconsin--where he engineered mutant viruses now named after him--and an MBA from the University of Chicago.
The author has two grown children and lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and dog.
Richards loves hearing from readers, and always replies, so feel free to write to him at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and address him as "Doug". You can also Friend Richards on Facebook at Douglas E. Richards Author, or visit his website, where you can sign up to be notified of new releases.
SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS
SERIES
WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)
MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
UNLEASHED (Nick Hall 4)
SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)
THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)
STANDALONE NOVELS
QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
THE CURE (To become KU eligible for the first time in 2023)
THE BREAKTHROUGH EFFECT
Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)
TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)
OUT OF THIS WORLD
DEVIL'S SWORD
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
May 8, 2021
Disappointing
I'm actually surprised I finished this book. I kept hoping it would get better, but it didn't. There was no believable drama or action. Most of the book was just comprised of long-winded explanations.
I'm actually surprised I finished this book. I kept hoping it would get better, but it didn't. There was no believable drama or action. Most of the book was just comprised of long-winded explanations.
April 8, 2021
Watered down burnt coffee
Usually enjoy Richards books but have noticed a decline and bad habit in recent books.
However his use of conversation to tell the story is way overused in this book. Usually he starts the process with double and triple twists in conversations and then settle down and the main characters allow us to listen to the story. It allows an author to just run through the chore of telling the tale.
Rather read cliff notes.
And I would rather write a good review.
Usually enjoy Richards books but have noticed a decline and bad habit in recent books.
However his use of conversation to tell the story is way overused in this book. Usually he starts the process with double and triple twists in conversations and then settle down and the main characters allow us to listen to the story. It allows an author to just run through the chore of telling the tale.
Rather read cliff notes.
And I would rather write a good review.
March 31, 2021
Why can’t we give a minus star review? This book deserve a minus 5 star review. Some writers improve with time, however this guy’s writing has degenerated (not devolve) with this entry.
I’ve been an avid reader of SF since 1964, and have encountered a boat load of pulp all of which is better this this pile of rancid crap.
The NY Times bestseller label is absolutely meaningless.
I’ve been an avid reader of SF since 1964, and have encountered a boat load of pulp all of which is better this this pile of rancid crap.
The NY Times bestseller label is absolutely meaningless.
March 5, 2021
My 19th of Doug's books, and they don't get old. I think this is the first time he's gone into the light-as-particle/wave thing, which as ever came across well.
My particular favourite twist was the memory-loss in chapter 36, and even though yes, I saw many of the turns coming and yes, the layering of intelligence agency upon clever operator was predictable and sure, we've seen plenty of psychopaths .. Doug manages to get across an awe of exciting new potential tech and still tell captivating, engaging stories.
So while I think perhaps the nanotech was a stretch here, almost too futuristic in some ways, surely I could argue the same about telepathy or time travel, which I'm not. It's just another avenue of storytelling, and while it didn't quite have the feel I was expecting, I was still quite hooked from cover to cover and very much enjoyed the book.
My particular favourite twist was the memory-loss in chapter 36, and even though yes, I saw many of the turns coming and yes, the layering of intelligence agency upon clever operator was predictable and sure, we've seen plenty of psychopaths .. Doug manages to get across an awe of exciting new potential tech and still tell captivating, engaging stories.
So while I think perhaps the nanotech was a stretch here, almost too futuristic in some ways, surely I could argue the same about telepathy or time travel, which I'm not. It's just another avenue of storytelling, and while it didn't quite have the feel I was expecting, I was still quite hooked from cover to cover and very much enjoyed the book.
June 17, 2021
Great premise, but predictable story.
I really enjoyed the main plot point of the book and found it very creative. My issue is how predictable the book is. The author seems to run the same story outline entry time: attractive military male, attractive female intellectual, near-future technology, characters having discussions that sound like Wikipedia articles about said technology, an over-the-top bad guy, a twist in the middle, good guys win, and everyone lives happily ever after. The book just seemed to jump around between hard-to-believe action scenes and tech exposition.
I really enjoyed the main plot point of the book and found it very creative. My issue is how predictable the book is. The author seems to run the same story outline entry time: attractive military male, attractive female intellectual, near-future technology, characters having discussions that sound like Wikipedia articles about said technology, an over-the-top bad guy, a twist in the middle, good guys win, and everyone lives happily ever after. The book just seemed to jump around between hard-to-believe action scenes and tech exposition.
May 14, 2022
I want to like these books since I love the potential science and imagination that comes from leading tech ideas and Richards does a great job looking at this side of things. However, I cannot stand any of the communication between any of the characters. It is incredibly childish and doesn't make any sense. Every time a character in this book had dialogue, I would roll my eyes and wonder why I gave Richards another chance. I finished this, but I almost have a shame that I now feel for reading it.
September 14, 2021
Eternal Transcendance
Douglas Richards could have invented the"Speculative" in speculative fiction. The questions of immortality, Alien prescence and artificial intelligence are handled with a deft touch.
When associate professor Allison Keane publishes an overview of her theoretical work in quantum physics and computing, Sioux Falls, South Dakota becomes an extremely dangerous place for her.
After Keane is abducted by a front person who actually represents the Chinese Communist Party, Tech Ops agent, Zachary Reed, is called in to retrieve her and the precious technology she holds in her mind.
Reed tracks Keane to an abandoned underground factory just outside of Utah. Using his smart contact lenses and link to the NSA's AI, Reed manages to barely get her out before the entire place is blown sky high.
As Reed and Keane meet their benefactor, Tom Hoyer, they are alternately fascinated and horrified by what they learn. Technology, beyond the grasp of anything humankind has ever seen, is revealed to them.
The remainder of the book is one giant reveal after another, mixed with deep philosophical and spiritual questions about how this Alien technology will ultimately change humankind.
As well, this tense, twisted story gallops along at break-neck speed right to the finish. I turned the last page and found my jaw dropped open. A masterpiece of a Technothriller, I highly recommend it.
Douglas Richards could have invented the"Speculative" in speculative fiction. The questions of immortality, Alien prescence and artificial intelligence are handled with a deft touch.
When associate professor Allison Keane publishes an overview of her theoretical work in quantum physics and computing, Sioux Falls, South Dakota becomes an extremely dangerous place for her.
After Keane is abducted by a front person who actually represents the Chinese Communist Party, Tech Ops agent, Zachary Reed, is called in to retrieve her and the precious technology she holds in her mind.
Reed tracks Keane to an abandoned underground factory just outside of Utah. Using his smart contact lenses and link to the NSA's AI, Reed manages to barely get her out before the entire place is blown sky high.
As Reed and Keane meet their benefactor, Tom Hoyer, they are alternately fascinated and horrified by what they learn. Technology, beyond the grasp of anything humankind has ever seen, is revealed to them.
The remainder of the book is one giant reveal after another, mixed with deep philosophical and spiritual questions about how this Alien technology will ultimately change humankind.
As well, this tense, twisted story gallops along at break-neck speed right to the finish. I turned the last page and found my jaw dropped open. A masterpiece of a Technothriller, I highly recommend it.
May 5, 2021
Douglas E Richards easily one of the best science fiction writers of our day. Taking current trends in science and pushing them into the near future. As have many of the great science fiction writers in history.
June 11, 2024
This would have easily been a 5 star book, but the ending was just not done to my liking at all.
I mean, I seriously liked the entire book, a lot, until the end.
BUT... still a great read, and a fantastic author!
I mean, I seriously liked the entire book, a lot, until the end.
BUT... still a great read, and a fantastic author!
March 4, 2021
The best of the best! This is the absolute best novel written by Douglas E Richards. He mixes his novels with his scientific expertise and comes up with the best reading experience available. You will meet geniuses, spies, mercenaries and academics looking for one thing, The Immortality Code.
April 24, 2022
3.5 stars — Very entertaining if far fetched story.
March 22, 2021
WOW tough to put down. Another incredible story by DER!!
Finished. Another incredibly gripping story by DER!!
His knack for plot twists and morally challenging decisions while creating a story that is so difficult to put down has truly taken my joy of reading to new levels.
The intertwining of cutting edge tech taken to conceivable yet just out of reach ability is wonderfully creative.
Thank you and please don’t stop. 😁
Finished. Another incredibly gripping story by DER!!
His knack for plot twists and morally challenging decisions while creating a story that is so difficult to put down has truly taken my joy of reading to new levels.
The intertwining of cutting edge tech taken to conceivable yet just out of reach ability is wonderfully creative.
Thank you and please don’t stop. 😁
July 25, 2021
Too similar to previous books that he has written. Also, too much explanation — he should use the plot and and storyline to develop the characters and introduce information. I’ve found that the three books of his that I have read lack a moral or philosophical underpinning or challenge. He throws his thoughts out there but doesn’t rise up to the challenge.
His books are entertaining, but they are written for the late elementary or middle school level reader. I read the first book because it was in front of me (and you have to finish what you start, right?). I read the companion book to continue the plot (it failed). Because I saw potential I looked up this most recent book to see if his writing matured/progressed, too find it was basically a reboot of what I already read of his.
I won’t be reading another of his books.
His books are entertaining, but they are written for the late elementary or middle school level reader. I read the first book because it was in front of me (and you have to finish what you start, right?). I read the companion book to continue the plot (it failed). Because I saw potential I looked up this most recent book to see if his writing matured/progressed, too find it was basically a reboot of what I already read of his.
I won’t be reading another of his books.
April 13, 2021
Doug does it again. Only better. This is, by far, my favorite book. I usually get the plot twists extremely early in books because I write them too. Doug really kept me guessing and the end was a complete "drop the mic" moment. I literally gasp out loud.
April 4, 2021
A bunch of tell, not show, but I will continue to read everything this guy writes.
July 31, 2021
2.5 stars
I really liked Richards' earlier works but my interest level is consistently waning, it seems. Ever since "Split Second" he has gone way out there with the possibilities of the technologies he is exploring. To the point where they make his characters God-like and there are no longer any stakes. In "Split Second" they realized they could use micro time travel to make copies of themselves and basically be immortal. Unless you happen to drop an atomic bomb on the characters when they are all in the same location, you cannot kill all of their clones. This book has a similar premise.
Well, before we get into that, my biggest complaint is that this book completely trumps the initial technology of quantum computers (which is what I came here for) to talk about nanites about half way through. They can form invisible shields, form into any object (including a functioning gun, which makes zero sense... can they become firing powder too??), and can replicate anything in the universe (including humans). That is way more OP than what Allie is working on so it seems silly that they are worried about her technology. The guys holding the nanites can easily rule the world right now. Not to mention the antagonist reveals that he has copies of all of the world's top scientists at his disposal whenever he wants to "create" them. Allie is just slightly more convenient to him. He'd be better off to kill her immediately and keep using his bank of scientists in a secured lab.
Then, if you can get past the OP nanites and the fact that quantum computers only matter in the first half of the book. Then, you have to deal with the very on-the-nose exposition about the characters. The author tells you exactly how to feel about everybody and to assume Allie and Reed will be madly in love within a few days. You might as well believe it now because it is going to happen soon.
I'm really being too generous with the 2.5 stars. I guess I am sticking to that because his info dumps on the technology are really well written. That is always the best part about Richards' books and he hasn't lost that talent. He is also good about maintaining the break-neck pacing in his books. They are sci-fi thrillers where the characters never get a break. So even though I had all of these problems, I did finish the book. I was interested to see where it ended up.
I am at a bit of a cross roads with the author, though. I very much want to read stories based on his research, but I think I'm getting too jaded on his execution of them.
I really liked Richards' earlier works but my interest level is consistently waning, it seems. Ever since "Split Second" he has gone way out there with the possibilities of the technologies he is exploring. To the point where they make his characters God-like and there are no longer any stakes. In "Split Second" they realized they could use micro time travel to make copies of themselves and basically be immortal. Unless you happen to drop an atomic bomb on the characters when they are all in the same location, you cannot kill all of their clones. This book has a similar premise.
Well, before we get into that, my biggest complaint is that this book completely trumps the initial technology of quantum computers (which is what I came here for) to talk about nanites about half way through. They can form invisible shields, form into any object (including a functioning gun, which makes zero sense... can they become firing powder too??), and can replicate anything in the universe (including humans). That is way more OP than what Allie is working on so it seems silly that they are worried about her technology. The guys holding the nanites can easily rule the world right now. Not to mention the antagonist reveals that he has copies of all of the world's top scientists at his disposal whenever he wants to "create" them. Allie is just slightly more convenient to him. He'd be better off to kill her immediately and keep using his bank of scientists in a secured lab.
Then, if you can get past the OP nanites and the fact that quantum computers only matter in the first half of the book. Then, you have to deal with the very on-the-nose exposition about the characters. The author tells you exactly how to feel about everybody and to assume Allie and Reed will be madly in love within a few days. You might as well believe it now because it is going to happen soon.
I'm really being too generous with the 2.5 stars. I guess I am sticking to that because his info dumps on the technology are really well written. That is always the best part about Richards' books and he hasn't lost that talent. He is also good about maintaining the break-neck pacing in his books. They are sci-fi thrillers where the characters never get a break. So even though I had all of these problems, I did finish the book. I was interested to see where it ended up.
I am at a bit of a cross roads with the author, though. I very much want to read stories based on his research, but I think I'm getting too jaded on his execution of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2022
Lazy writing. That about explains this latest techno-thriller from Douglas E. Richards. Richards fills this book with flat, stock, rehashed characters & concepts from his previous books. Again, there’s a world-changing scientific discovery; 2 different Black Ops groups fighting over the discovery (& again, it’s unclear who are the good guys or bad guys); a genius Lex Luthor-type megalomaniac villain that could easily fit in a James Bond movie; a sensitive but insufferable super-soldier military pro who hates killing but will use deadly force at the drop of a hat (but he has a conscience too!); and finally the super-intelligent heroine whom the super-soldier must save (and immediately falls in love with). All these cookie cutter stereotypes are present in ALL books I have read from him (e.g. Split Second, Time Frame, and The Enigma Cube 1 & 2). Every few pages, the author reminds the reader how amazing, intelligent or outstanding the two main characters are …
As in all Douglas E Richards books I have read, character development takes a back seat. Every person is a clichéd caricature. Richards is deplorable in his depiction of romance. Dialog between the two lovers is trite, corny and sophomoric, and is in no way believable. It’s quite laughable tbh.
There’s an early misdirect, involving an evil villain from China, that is completely dropped about one fifth through the book. It came off as a poorly disguised political expression on the part of the author. This could have been deleted from the book with zero effect on the outcome.
In addition to the above, the author’s habit of including pages and pages of overly verbose, preachy and awkward didactic dialog is absolutely mind-numbing. I guess he is trying to explain the science of his concepts, but it comes off as a boring lecture in a Jr High School physics class.
It’s not all bad. Douglas Richards books are fast moving page-turners, and can be gripping, at least in the beginning. His science is usually pretty good, and he researches his books thoroughly. But his poor writing, lame retreaded plots and underdeveloped characters read like teen fan-fiction.
As in all Douglas E Richards books I have read, character development takes a back seat. Every person is a clichéd caricature. Richards is deplorable in his depiction of romance. Dialog between the two lovers is trite, corny and sophomoric, and is in no way believable. It’s quite laughable tbh.
There’s an early misdirect, involving an evil villain from China, that is completely dropped about one fifth through the book. It came off as a poorly disguised political expression on the part of the author. This could have been deleted from the book with zero effect on the outcome.
In addition to the above, the author’s habit of including pages and pages of overly verbose, preachy and awkward didactic dialog is absolutely mind-numbing. I guess he is trying to explain the science of his concepts, but it comes off as a boring lecture in a Jr High School physics class.
It’s not all bad. Douglas Richards books are fast moving page-turners, and can be gripping, at least in the beginning. His science is usually pretty good, and he researches his books thoroughly. But his poor writing, lame retreaded plots and underdeveloped characters read like teen fan-fiction.
January 30, 2022
The book begins with a focus on quantum computing but quickly switches the focus to special particles called nanites. What's special about them? Pretty much everything. In fact, the idea behind them is so large the book can barely contain it. Need something? Nanites can make it for you. Bullets flying at you? Nanites can stop them. Need to kill a bunch of people? Nanites are up to the task. What if you get killed? Nanites just might have a solution. Though these particles are intricate to an exciting, creative story, they also dilute any acts of courage or bravery by the characters. If there is no risk, if a person is wearing the ultimate body armor, how brave do they have to be to run through a hail of bullets and kill everyone? Speaking of the characters, their names have changed but they are pretty much the same as those found in other books by this author. A brilliant female scientist? Check. Her name is Allie this time. A super soldier? Check. Got to have one of those. His name is Reed. He can't leap tall buildings in a single bound and he doesn't have X-ray vision, but he's another comic book superhero type character. Does he fall in love with Allie? Come on. What do you think? Do they make mad, passionate love? I'm not going to dignify that with an answer. Not to be forgotten are bad guys who could really be good guys and good guys who could really be bad guys. Oh yeah, someone you think is dead may not really be dead. And there you have it. All the main ingredients for a novel by this author. Do our heroes who are not really heroes find a way to save the day, save themselves as well as all humanity? Gosh, I don't know. What do you think? Much about this author's books is predictable, but he offers intriguing plots and ideas based on credible scientific foundation. The quality of writing falls short of the mark in areas such as character development, depth and believable dialogue, but his stories continue to be entertaining and will continue to be read. People looking for a new Michael Crichton might do well to consider this author's works. Why? Who else is doing any better job right now?
May 19, 2021
The compleat nanotech
Mr Richards starts by setting up a scenario of bad guys, and evil others which looks greatly like today's geopolitical society. Very today in the setting. I shouldn't discuss it further because Amazon likes to censor me for minor infractions. With this setup we start talking nanotech. We find a lost boxcar of nanotech sent to is by aliens. We start trying to figure out how it works. It can replicate. It can communicate. It can tear down anything; remember it's structure; and reconstruct it anywhere, even a distant planet. It is infinitely strong and hard. It draws power from an upper dimension, and converts anything from one element to another. It is the ultimate sorcerer's stone. It can even deconstruct living things and reconstruct them. Good time for philosophical discussion about the soul. Don't know why, because it never was significant to the story, but we learn that human beings must be deconstructed and reconstructed in a total of 4 minutes (2 down, and 2 up) or you don't get an operational living being out of the effort. Maybe the next novel? Author says no. So anyway, the nanoes are armor, weapons, healing machines, clone makers, etc. Our team gets confronted by clones, and learn all sorts near tricks to survive and win the day, kinda. Don't forget that packet of gum at the beginning of the story. We needed it to survive at the end of the story.
Mr Richards starts by setting up a scenario of bad guys, and evil others which looks greatly like today's geopolitical society. Very today in the setting. I shouldn't discuss it further because Amazon likes to censor me for minor infractions. With this setup we start talking nanotech. We find a lost boxcar of nanotech sent to is by aliens. We start trying to figure out how it works. It can replicate. It can communicate. It can tear down anything; remember it's structure; and reconstruct it anywhere, even a distant planet. It is infinitely strong and hard. It draws power from an upper dimension, and converts anything from one element to another. It is the ultimate sorcerer's stone. It can even deconstruct living things and reconstruct them. Good time for philosophical discussion about the soul. Don't know why, because it never was significant to the story, but we learn that human beings must be deconstructed and reconstructed in a total of 4 minutes (2 down, and 2 up) or you don't get an operational living being out of the effort. Maybe the next novel? Author says no. So anyway, the nanoes are armor, weapons, healing machines, clone makers, etc. Our team gets confronted by clones, and learn all sorts near tricks to survive and win the day, kinda. Don't forget that packet of gum at the beginning of the story. We needed it to survive at the end of the story.
March 20, 2022
I am a sci-fi junkie, and The Immortality Code is good...
But not great. And I have grown to expect everything written by this author, Douglas E. Richards to be great. Don't get me wrong...it is a good read. And immortality is a subject to ponder, but until we can get people to eat healthy food, exercise, and cure diseases, it is not feasible.
But even in this book, the suggestion is that immortality is achieved by cloning exact copies of the original, so that if something happens to you, your exact clone copy can take over for you without a hitch. This is just my description. Actually, Mr. Richards makes a good stab at making this sound realistic as science fiction should. In fact, many things that begin as science fiction do come true.
But we are not there yet. The book begins with a frenetic pace that that revs up with the scientist who appears to have found a way to immortality being assigned a military protector to keep her safe. And they fall in love. Another military protector wants them moved to a safe house to keep others trying to steal the work from getting it.
What could go wrong? Everyone wants it, including the Chinese, who attempts to kidnap the inventor and her protector. But that is not all, even Americans want the technology stolen.
But after the inventor and boyfriend are kidnapped, the story kind of stalls out, at least for me. There are some then
But not great. And I have grown to expect everything written by this author, Douglas E. Richards to be great. Don't get me wrong...it is a good read. And immortality is a subject to ponder, but until we can get people to eat healthy food, exercise, and cure diseases, it is not feasible.
But even in this book, the suggestion is that immortality is achieved by cloning exact copies of the original, so that if something happens to you, your exact clone copy can take over for you without a hitch. This is just my description. Actually, Mr. Richards makes a good stab at making this sound realistic as science fiction should. In fact, many things that begin as science fiction do come true.
But we are not there yet. The book begins with a frenetic pace that that revs up with the scientist who appears to have found a way to immortality being assigned a military protector to keep her safe. And they fall in love. Another military protector wants them moved to a safe house to keep others trying to steal the work from getting it.
What could go wrong? Everyone wants it, including the Chinese, who attempts to kidnap the inventor and her protector. But that is not all, even Americans want the technology stolen.
But after the inventor and boyfriend are kidnapped, the story kind of stalls out, at least for me. There are some then
April 6, 2021
Another excellent book from Douglas E. Richards
I always look forward to new books by this author. This one is another example of an excellent techno-thriller from Douglas E. Richards.
Excellent pacing, decent character development, some good plot twists, and a masterful job of weaving various technologies together to create a great story.
One of the guilty pleasures I get from reading the author’s books is the feeling of being smart. Basically, if you follow technology developments through the various sources of media you will be familiar with the base technology the author is either using as is or with a slight twist and you will probably get a decent endorphin release as you connect what you read with what is in the storyline.
Not a criticism, but more of a challenge to Douglas E. Richards... Could you attempt to write a “hard science fiction” novel? Your bio states that you have a masters degree and are a former head of bio pharmaceutical licensing for a major company. In your epilogues, you keep referring to ‘“research” but the vast majority of this research is what is published for the mainstream news consumer. It is the stuff that appears on TV news programs and in online magazines. I would like to see “research” from scholarly sources incorporated into a “hard sci-fi novel”.
Overall, a great read.
I always look forward to new books by this author. This one is another example of an excellent techno-thriller from Douglas E. Richards.
Excellent pacing, decent character development, some good plot twists, and a masterful job of weaving various technologies together to create a great story.
One of the guilty pleasures I get from reading the author’s books is the feeling of being smart. Basically, if you follow technology developments through the various sources of media you will be familiar with the base technology the author is either using as is or with a slight twist and you will probably get a decent endorphin release as you connect what you read with what is in the storyline.
Not a criticism, but more of a challenge to Douglas E. Richards... Could you attempt to write a “hard science fiction” novel? Your bio states that you have a masters degree and are a former head of bio pharmaceutical licensing for a major company. In your epilogues, you keep referring to ‘“research” but the vast majority of this research is what is published for the mainstream news consumer. It is the stuff that appears on TV news programs and in online magazines. I would like to see “research” from scholarly sources incorporated into a “hard sci-fi novel”.
Overall, a great read.
April 15, 2021
Initially I was hooked. And..
It's hard to rate a book properly these days. Most best in category books get a 4.5 star average on Amazon and yet are utter trash. This book would be at least a 9/5 compared to the majority of them. The action is superb, and the writing crisp. The romance does mimic chemistry, with great dialogue though romance's realness would have benefited from cutting 50% of the clues that 'Jack and Jill love each other at first sight'. It's also hard for me to imagine a Navy Seal who is such a Mr. Nice guy.
The real issue comes with how far it goes with the technological jumps go to save the characters from circumstance - too far for me to swallow. The reveals in the beginning make the story fantastical and exciting. Then the book sextuple-downs on the suspension of belief and it lost me. They might as well have gotten insta-gifted magical powers.
I assume now that is what the author was going for: "Imagine our world with technology is like magic, and guess what? The military already has it". I myself was interested in the book as a near-future sci-fi. I guess just didn't want ALL the future to come tomorrow. And that is why despite the above praise for Mr. Richards writing I feel inclined to write a review at just three stars.
It's hard to rate a book properly these days. Most best in category books get a 4.5 star average on Amazon and yet are utter trash. This book would be at least a 9/5 compared to the majority of them. The action is superb, and the writing crisp. The romance does mimic chemistry, with great dialogue though romance's realness would have benefited from cutting 50% of the clues that 'Jack and Jill love each other at first sight'. It's also hard for me to imagine a Navy Seal who is such a Mr. Nice guy.
The real issue comes with how far it goes with the technological jumps go to save the characters from circumstance - too far for me to swallow. The reveals in the beginning make the story fantastical and exciting. Then the book sextuple-downs on the suspension of belief and it lost me. They might as well have gotten insta-gifted magical powers.
I assume now that is what the author was going for: "Imagine our world with technology is like magic, and guess what? The military already has it". I myself was interested in the book as a near-future sci-fi. I guess just didn't want ALL the future to come tomorrow. And that is why despite the above praise for Mr. Richards writing I feel inclined to write a review at just three stars.
May 30, 2021
I would give 10 stars
Douglas E. Richards is one of my favorite authors, you can never go wrong reading any of his books. I am in awe in how much research he puts into his books and shares it with the reader at the end of the book. I am so grateful for Kindle Unlimited because without it I might not have found Mr. Richards, I read sci-fi here and there but he got me hooked. In my 60's I have become a sci-fi fanatic.I also made an awesome friend on FB through my love of Mr. Richards books. The universe absolutely works in mysterious ways because I would be devastated if I hadn't found Mr. Richards books because they give me some much pleasure to read. I was always anti electronic books, loved the feel of a book in my hands. My sister worked for many years at a Book of the Month Club so always had hundreds of books to read which I always donated after reading but at my company Christmas Party I won a Kindle reader. I didn't plan to use it and was going to re gift it but honestly can't remember why I didn't and started to read books on it, then I requested my children get me Kindle Unlimited for a Christmas gift and the rest is history. I upgraded to a 10" Kindle and never looked back.
Douglas E. Richards is one of my favorite authors, you can never go wrong reading any of his books. I am in awe in how much research he puts into his books and shares it with the reader at the end of the book. I am so grateful for Kindle Unlimited because without it I might not have found Mr. Richards, I read sci-fi here and there but he got me hooked. In my 60's I have become a sci-fi fanatic.I also made an awesome friend on FB through my love of Mr. Richards books. The universe absolutely works in mysterious ways because I would be devastated if I hadn't found Mr. Richards books because they give me some much pleasure to read. I was always anti electronic books, loved the feel of a book in my hands. My sister worked for many years at a Book of the Month Club so always had hundreds of books to read which I always donated after reading but at my company Christmas Party I won a Kindle reader. I didn't plan to use it and was going to re gift it but honestly can't remember why I didn't and started to read books on it, then I requested my children get me Kindle Unlimited for a Christmas gift and the rest is history. I upgraded to a 10" Kindle and never looked back.
March 14, 2021
One Innocent Post Online Changed Everything
Dr.Allison Keane is celebrating her breakthrough discovery after having posted a teaser on the internet. After treating herself to a rare breakfast out, she heads home to continue her research. A knock on the door from her next door neighbor with a message to turn on her phone, and an immediate call from a stranger with a job offer leaves her head reeling. Little does she know how much her life will change that day. Zachary Reed, a former Seal Team Six leader, is assigned to locate Dr. Keane and protect her from foreign agents who want the knowledge she has acquired. It will not be an easy task.
Richard Phillips has written another near future thriller that captures your imagination and your intellect and refuses to let go until the very end. As always, the author introduces an abundance of scientific facts and mixes them with a healthy dollop of futuristic possibilities. All of this is intertwined in a way to draw you deeper into the horrific consequences if the information is released to the world. The Immortality Code is a first-rate thriller that you're going to love.
Dr.Allison Keane is celebrating her breakthrough discovery after having posted a teaser on the internet. After treating herself to a rare breakfast out, she heads home to continue her research. A knock on the door from her next door neighbor with a message to turn on her phone, and an immediate call from a stranger with a job offer leaves her head reeling. Little does she know how much her life will change that day. Zachary Reed, a former Seal Team Six leader, is assigned to locate Dr. Keane and protect her from foreign agents who want the knowledge she has acquired. It will not be an easy task.
Richard Phillips has written another near future thriller that captures your imagination and your intellect and refuses to let go until the very end. As always, the author introduces an abundance of scientific facts and mixes them with a healthy dollop of futuristic possibilities. All of this is intertwined in a way to draw you deeper into the horrific consequences if the information is released to the world. The Immortality Code is a first-rate thriller that you're going to love.
March 29, 2024
Could be SO much better. The second book I’ve read by this author and my reaction was the same each time. He takes interesting scientific ideas but tortures them through repetition. He also extends the science to a theoretical endpoint that’s too far out there (too distant future, too extreme and sudden of a jump from current state). He writes incredibly childish characters and dialogue. Teen romance level bad, with characters behaving in ways that don’t match the story setting or seriousness of mood in the least. If he tightened up his stories he’d be so much better. More depth and believability to his characters. Less cartoon-cutout bad guys. Narrowing his timeframe and “what-if” to be more accessible and interesting (not the science, just the scope of the story). And dialogue that is more suitable for his usually smart and serious-minded characters (and readers). After two books I’m beginning to think he’s a smart guy with great ideas who struggles to write a solid book with real human characters. Writing is difficult, so no harm there. Perhaps he needs a stronger editor and co-writer on board.
September 22, 2021
Weird Science (@weird_sci) tweeted at 11:00 PM on Tue, Sep 21, 2021:
A nanobot picks up a lazy sperm by the tail and inseminates an egg with it, by the German Institute for Integrative Nanosciences. https://t.co/I7C1lvq5xV
(https://twitter.com/weird_sci/status/...)
Nanobots... Weird that I see this tweet hours after finishing the Immortality Code which concerns the question of how powerful Alien technology nanbots called nanites would impact human kind. They can deconstruct a human and rebuild a copy of it. Curiously the soul is still there. Author posits the soul is broadcast to the body from another dimension, a type of "wifi for the soul". It's as if the nanbots are a 3d printer on steroids, even laying down your DNA perfectly. Anyway the nanobot reconstruction cause immortality and it can replicate any resource so no money whoas or food shortages. How would society deal with this? Anyway, while reading this I thought the microscopic nanobots just seemed so far fetched it seemed to not be credible. But, look at what this real nanobot is doing today.
A nanobot picks up a lazy sperm by the tail and inseminates an egg with it, by the German Institute for Integrative Nanosciences. https://t.co/I7C1lvq5xV
(https://twitter.com/weird_sci/status/...)
Nanobots... Weird that I see this tweet hours after finishing the Immortality Code which concerns the question of how powerful Alien technology nanbots called nanites would impact human kind. They can deconstruct a human and rebuild a copy of it. Curiously the soul is still there. Author posits the soul is broadcast to the body from another dimension, a type of "wifi for the soul". It's as if the nanbots are a 3d printer on steroids, even laying down your DNA perfectly. Anyway the nanobot reconstruction cause immortality and it can replicate any resource so no money whoas or food shortages. How would society deal with this? Anyway, while reading this I thought the microscopic nanobots just seemed so far fetched it seemed to not be credible. But, look at what this real nanobot is doing today.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2023
Just read the book already
Really enjoyed. The author.... Doug Richards is terrific at holding your interest with fast paced storytelling, with incredible visual descriptions of technology so magical it's mesmerizing. Great plot with a likeable heroine and Heroes plural. Evil villains to spice it up and to worry about the what its.
It embraces topics of science,AI and quantum physics importantly but also of what a Pandora's box even the most wonderfully fulfilling and mind blowing discovery can be for humanity given what makes us up ...flaws and all.
On and thanks the focus on biology, the miracle of life, and not forgetting to mention the most important aspect of this ...
The soul.
This was an exciting and fast paced book that By the end, leaves you excited for the future and a veritable banquet of food for thought. I don't want to just grab the next book in my tbr pile ...I want to finish going through the author notes and really reading ... And share with a couple of people that I know will enjoy this book.
Really enjoyed. The author.... Doug Richards is terrific at holding your interest with fast paced storytelling, with incredible visual descriptions of technology so magical it's mesmerizing. Great plot with a likeable heroine and Heroes plural. Evil villains to spice it up and to worry about the what its.
It embraces topics of science,AI and quantum physics importantly but also of what a Pandora's box even the most wonderfully fulfilling and mind blowing discovery can be for humanity given what makes us up ...flaws and all.
On and thanks the focus on biology, the miracle of life, and not forgetting to mention the most important aspect of this ...
The soul.
This was an exciting and fast paced book that By the end, leaves you excited for the future and a veritable banquet of food for thought. I don't want to just grab the next book in my tbr pile ...I want to finish going through the author notes and really reading ... And share with a couple of people that I know will enjoy this book.
March 7, 2021
Another future-science action story
Douglas Richards books all are near future, and loaded with science, psychology and philosophy thought experiments. This story follows suit, and toys with quantum computing, nanites and psychopathy, as well as the nature of the soul all while running in circles with our hero and lady (scientist) in distress. Some of the themes have been used before in Richard’s other books, and the villain of the story does a LOT of talking, with reveal after reveal for all "unknown" elements — reminding me of old cartoons where the villain took off mask after mask to reveal who actually was behind the dastardly deed. An entertaining read as usual, for committed and new Richard’s readers, but short on new story lines.
Douglas Richards books all are near future, and loaded with science, psychology and philosophy thought experiments. This story follows suit, and toys with quantum computing, nanites and psychopathy, as well as the nature of the soul all while running in circles with our hero and lady (scientist) in distress. Some of the themes have been used before in Richard’s other books, and the villain of the story does a LOT of talking, with reveal after reveal for all "unknown" elements — reminding me of old cartoons where the villain took off mask after mask to reveal who actually was behind the dastardly deed. An entertaining read as usual, for committed and new Richard’s readers, but short on new story lines.
April 24, 2021
Loved the plot but writing was too....
Loved the plot, the author has such a great imagination in all his books. It the writing was often too like that found in a “romance novel”. Prime example: Allie looked at his “ruggedly handsome face”. I understand the need to have the reader feel the main characters were falling in love, but it was often cringe-worthy prose.
Also, his story lines are beginning to be too predictable... brilliant, beautiful female scientist meets handsome, rugged, brave and smart ex-military guy and they quickly fall for each other.
I love the sci-if creativity so keep writing but please change the main character interactions up a bit and stay away from the sappy prose.
Loved the plot, the author has such a great imagination in all his books. It the writing was often too like that found in a “romance novel”. Prime example: Allie looked at his “ruggedly handsome face”. I understand the need to have the reader feel the main characters were falling in love, but it was often cringe-worthy prose.
Also, his story lines are beginning to be too predictable... brilliant, beautiful female scientist meets handsome, rugged, brave and smart ex-military guy and they quickly fall for each other.
I love the sci-if creativity so keep writing but please change the main character interactions up a bit and stay away from the sappy prose.
August 9, 2021
A riveting read!
I thoroughly enjoy Richards' writing and The Immortality Code is no exception. I'm fascinated by the futuristic scientific elements (always excited to read the author's inspiration and resources in the end notes) and the plot's rollercoaster twists and turns. I deeply appreciate the thought-provoking explorations of humanity's earthly challenges, consciousness and aliens. With several genius female PhD computer scientists and physicists in my own family, I was particularly enthralled by the character of Allie; a strong, brilliant, attractive woman who achieved breakthroughs in spite of adversity. She could be my relative! I anxiously await Richard's next imaginative creation!
I thoroughly enjoy Richards' writing and The Immortality Code is no exception. I'm fascinated by the futuristic scientific elements (always excited to read the author's inspiration and resources in the end notes) and the plot's rollercoaster twists and turns. I deeply appreciate the thought-provoking explorations of humanity's earthly challenges, consciousness and aliens. With several genius female PhD computer scientists and physicists in my own family, I was particularly enthralled by the character of Allie; a strong, brilliant, attractive woman who achieved breakthroughs in spite of adversity. She could be my relative! I anxiously await Richard's next imaginative creation!
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