Stories of Earth: WWIII

Great book! Thoroughly enjoyable, and I really liked the fresh setting in Australia. Some really clever plot points, and although confusing at the start (which only made me want to read more and more), the payoff was really nice. Would recommend to all Sci-Fi and action novel fans!

A riveting read, I found myself addicted within the first chapter. Mr Charles sets up a world so apparently regular and synonymous with our own within the first pages, it comes as quite a shock when a seemingly unthinkable chain of events begin to go down and the world, and its characters within, grows increasingly alien and terrifying. By forging this link to the world we live in, Charles is able to lead us into comparing the clearly ethically horrendous actions undertaken by his novel's antagonists against issues that have become prevalent in our own society, most notably: the advances in government surveillance, and the lucrative financial opportunities war and terror presents to certain parties, particularly weapons and security manufacturers, and what lengths they may go to in order to maintain these opportunities.  The thought provoking themes of the novel are grounded by some particularly well developed and realistically flawed young protagonists, whose mental and physical journey through the hardships they endure is intense, but redeemed by a strong emotional (and badass) payoff in the cliche subverting finale.  Meanwhile Mr Charles engagingly constructs multiple brilliantly vibrant yet gritty action sequences and set pieces for action lovers such as myself. Hopefully we'll see it play out on the big screen one day! I would recommend this book to readers of all ages. Older readers will be taken by the frightening ethical issues the novel raises on emerging technology, the media, and government censorship and control, while younger readers can enjoy the fast paced action-adventure situations the group of relatable protagonists face. All readers will find many things to love.  The fact that this is Mr Charles' first book is arguably the most astounding revelation of all. His writing displays the empathic characterisation, stylistic skill, and intelligent storytelling of many established authors before him. I can only look forward with anticipation to his next writing endeavour.