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The Enigma Strain – Ebook

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(20 customer reviews)

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An explosion rocks Yellowstone. A strange disease begins to spread. A supervolcano threatens to erupt.

And none of it was an accident.

Read more…

The Enigma Strain – Ebook

An explosion rocks Yellowstone. A strange disease begins to spread. A supervolcano threatens to erupt.

And none of it was an accident.

A reclusive Yellowstone park ranger is forced into action, teaming up with a beautiful woman from the CDC.

Harvey Bennett isn’t a trained killer, but he’ll fight for what’s right.

And he’ll do anything to take down the terrorists behind the attack.

From Yellowstone across the American landscape, Harvey and Juliette must do what it takes to survive, before it’s too late.

Grab the first book in the fast-paced action-adventure thriller series today that’s been described as “National Treasure meets Indiana Jones” and “the next James Rollins.”

“Looking for action adventure books for men? You’ve come to the right place…”

From USA Today Bestselling Author Nick Thacker, The Enigma Strain is a fast-paced action-adventure thriller with elements of conspiracy, medical, and virus-based post-apocalyptic themes. If you like James Rollins, Clive Cussler, and Preston & Child, you will love the Harvey Bennett Thrillers series.

20 reviews for The Enigma Strain - Ebook

  1. shopper –

    Really enjoyed this read. Full of action, adventure, great page turner…I downloaded book by accident…the beginning was so well done, could not put it down. Good steady pace read…great characters…Now starting book 2 Amazon Code…if you love series, highly recommended worth the read…

  2. N. Jones –

    The book was interesting from the beginning. Then it ramped up to an ending that had me on the edge of my chair.The characters we’re well developed and revealed as the story unfolded.You’ll find nerdy tech aspects, scientific aspect, romance and all combined with action in a National Park.I would categorize this book as suspense with a big dose of conspiracy.

  3. Up North –

    I am not going to rehash the story line of this book – several people have already beat me to the punch. I enjoyed this book for several reasons. The description of the surrounding environments were “spot on” – not just the outside world (trees, streams, etc.), but the offices and labs. Main characters were fully developed – you got to know them inside and out – why they thought and did everything in the book. This is a seriously, in depth story – circles within circles. Everyone had motives – the one they presented to the world and the one they kept close to their chest. Don’t assume who is the “good” person, and who is the “bad” person – you will be surprised at the end. (I was)

  4. mark earls –

    Well this was certainly different than my usual reads, but I really freakin loved it. I love Ben and the dynamic he develops through the story with Julie. IN fact, I loved this so much I bought book 2 & 3 (currently reading #2!) – I dont do spoilers, but I do love the villain (hint its not just a person). The story itself is not that far from reality – Yellowstone is a world killer that may blow sometime. Virus’s are being created in labs all the time and we are always discovering new species and drugs in the wild nearly every day. You will absolutely love this series

  5. Kindle Customer –

    I enjoyed everything in this tale of a strange viral substance that was used against America for cloudy reasons. The excitement is in the response of citizens at every level, from lab workers, medical staff, businesses, military and police, park rangers and eventually everyman and woman.I revelled in the activities in and around Yellowstone National Park, with its amazing caldera. Go see it sometime, if you can!Nick Thacker is a great writer and this is one that will have you on the edge of your seat at times. Loved it.

  6. Corine Ann Barnes –

    Wow! Three hundred years ago, a Russian survey team–strong, methodical, effective, and focused—found a treasure hidden in a cave in the Northwest Territory of the New World. The coins were heavy enough in total to warrant going home rather than carrying them around on further explorations. That was the last decision they made.Ben has loved his life as a park ranger in Yellowstone, but the serenity and peace of the job vanished when a small bomb detonates and suddenly a nasty new disease starts spreading like wildfire, killing most of its victims in hours. His loss of a partner and his proximity to the bomb brings him to the attention of a CDC person who remains determined to get answers from him. Their partnership proves life-saving multiple times, and fruitful. Their thinking is spurred by their sparring as well as considering multiple views of the problem. They prove to be the key to solving the plague and preventing a national disaster.Nick Thacker is a meticulous author who leads the reader through complex activities and thought processes to tell the story. And what a story!

  7. N. Chipman Hamblin II –

    A very good action adventure story. Interesting plot, a few nice twists, and the science content although a bit stretched at times, is not ridiculous. I found this to be a good summer read and enjoyed it very much. I especially appreciated the author’s avoidance of the graphic sexual scenes and situations that all too many of the “modern adventures” seem to embrace. I enjoyed this book and am pleased to recommend it.

  8. Stonewall_77 –

    With this thriller, Nick Thacker demonstrates that he is a gifted story-teller. His premise is plausible – that Yellowstone is in a delicate balance that could be upset deliberately by malicious sources, and in fact that threat is at the heart of his story complete with attendant side effects that could rapidly escalate to a cataclysmic event. Personal courage and daunting insights must come to bear to head off that threat. Can it be done in time? Read this book. Thriller lovers will love it, particularly those who enjoy grounded realism.

  9. Kindle Customer –

    The opening gripped my attention from the beginning. The steady build in tension inceases as the various characters develop. Ben’s background starts to reveal why he buried himself on Yellowstone Park and his internal battle against becoming involved in what becomes a personal mission to defeat an unimaginable plot against the USA. Detailed research and a realistic and convincing plot combining a bio-medical threat with a massive natural disaster that would affect the whole world if not halted. As someone who lives in a city built atop far too many volcanoes this was too close for comfort !

  10. Kindle Customer –

    NT probably, without realizing it has written a SyFy novel that the people of Waashington, Oregon, Utah, Idaho and Montana had never been written. They live everyday with this threat just as California does with the San Andres Fault. This is an excellent, although frightening, read for the genre….. ER

  11. Erin P –

    I came across this book as part of an ebook promo on BookBub and I’m so glad I picked it up. I read another review that compared the author to Michael Crichton and I can totally see that. In fact, I’d amend that statement to say this book is where James Rollins meets Clive Cussler and Michael Crichton, all authors whose work I love. Well-written, engaging, and sufficiently fast-paced to keep my attention. With a storyline that pits good against evil, the series promises to follow in the footsteps of the awesome authors and their protagonists aforementioned. I read it in a 24 hour period, which I don’t always have time to do – it has all the hallmarks of a grand success, and I very much look forward to reading the author’s other books (I’ve already begun reading “The Depths” which has a different flavor but feels just as engaging already!

  12. Thomas D. Hall –

    I really enjoyed reading this book. It was engaging and held my attention. Many book I start, but if they can’t hold my interest I don’t finish them. Not a problem here. If you are seeking great classic literature this is probably not the book for you, but your in the right place if you like semi-realistic read with action and a fairly good plot. I don’t think the resolution of the virus problem was realistic, but I will concede a little burble for a good story. The biggest compliment is that I am going to look at other books he has authored.

  13. JJ –

    This book was well written and fast-paced. Although parts of the story were extreme, the overall arc of a national pandemic affecting the USA was believable. The fact that the protagonists, as well as the terrorists didn’t think the country could pull together to fight the threat was disturbing and I would hope not a reality. Perhaps after reading this people will have second thoughts about how precious this country is and what a responsibility we all have to each other. All in all, a good read, with a good ending that makes you think!

  14. sunshinesw –

    Loved this. Just came across it and could hardly out it down. Always love a guy in uniform, but you don’t usually get to excited about a park ranger, do you? Totally unexpected…scary, funny, I can see it happening…that’s why I liked it most, I think. Ready for the next one

  15. DP –

    Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had to put it down several times as I was only reading for an hour at a time. The story has multiple story lines in it that I had to backtrack and re-read each time I picked it up again. I recommend that once you start reading don’t put it down until you are at least halfway through. Better if you read it completely from beginning to end in one setting. The characters are well developed and there are twists that I didn’t see coming.I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys biological mysteries with lots of action.

  16. Kindle Customer. Joy –

    So strangely connected to the headlines in today’s news. A virus/bacterial??? Mystery with huge political possibilities. Yellowstone park settings with high level secrets and monetary involvement. While seeking causes to the illness and cures a hidden agenda is suspected but time is short to stop world wide havoc!

  17. SKrueger –

    Was intrigued by two aspects of the storyline. Yellowstone’s super volcano potential & a novel virus. I live within the destructive radius, should such an event would occur. And read this book during the current COVID 19 pandemic. I was engaged with the story & considering the possibilities of both.

  18. Sandra –

    As the world in 2020 states down the Covid 19 virus, author Nick Thacker seems to have had a peek at the future some time ago. The intrigue of trying to see if/when this all gets straightened out remains to be seen, in the novel as well as real life today!

  19. Kindle Customer –

    I almost didn’t make it through the three or four prologues before chapter one simply because of the formatting of the book. There are no indentations, just a skipped line between paragraphs, and italics are used for both telephone conversations, the characters’ thoughts, and when the author wants to emphasize what the character is saying. That’s a bit off-putting, but isn’t too extremely difficult to get used to and ignore.Once I got into the story, it was fast paced and fun to read. There were a couple twists I saw coming and a few I didn’t, which made for an interesting read as even the ones I saw coming weren’t simplistic. Overall I gave it 5 stars based on the story and the writing style, not on the formatting of the eBook itself, which definitely could use some help.I saw some reviews saying the love story was forced, but it didn’t feel that way to me. Unnecessary maybe, but some people like love stories and it didn’t get sickeningly sweet or anything. Those complaining should probably look up relationships built on high stress situations, as that tends to happen a lot. They typically don’t last, but it’s not out of the realm of possibility.

  20. Schriv –

    Using a somewhat strange mixture of people, Nick Thacker put an intense and action filled story together. With the setting for the final portion in a familiar location, you seemed to be right there with Bennett. A great ending opening the way to more similar books.

  21. Nana –

    A good start to this series. Yellowstone is the center of this story, because of the potential to finally explode and cause the death of nearly every creature on the North American continent. A hostile group of wealthy business owners has decided to use an ancient power which can kill anyone who come into contact with it. The story presents the Yellowstone cauldron as a disaster that could happen with man’s intentional interference. Hopefully this is the writers imagination.

  22. Kindle Customer –

    I started reading Nick’s books in 2015. After reading the first one I was very intrigued. I ordered a couple more and then I was hooked. Now I look forward to each book and the different types of adventures both Ben and friends gets into. I love how authors like Nick take us around the world and give us histories the books in school never gave you.Start with reading this one then go get the books that give you Harvey’s history before this one then go on to read the next in the series…you’ll get hooked and won’t regret it!

  23. Kindle Customer –

    Without spoiling the plot climaxes (and there are several subplots that are important) Nick Thacker presents an interesting page-turner that you think you know how it should play out, but I it doesnt. There are a few interpersonal interactions that may not play out as they would in reality, but the characters are well-defined enough for the lead-off book to a series. Curiously, the title of the book is never actually used within the book itself. I would have liked to have seen more development of the romantic relationship between Bennet & the female lead. It almost seems like the romantic relationship was thrown in so the book would appeal to more female audience members. I would also have liked to have seen a bit more of the action from some of the side characters that were adequately built to take on more storyline. Overall, a good read that is difficult to put down, and finding out there is an entire series with Bennet makes me know I will have something interesting to read for some time to come.The first chapter/teaser for the 2nd book in the series, The Amazon Code, leads me to believe that book will be as interesting read as The Enigma Strain.

  24. Kindle Customer –

    I really enjoyed this story. It kept my attention through out. I liked the characters especially Ben and Julie. Very well developed. Lots of mystery and intrigue. Some of the mystery remained at the end of the book. I’m wondering if the story is continued somewhere. I would definitely read more books by this author.

  25. Rebecca P Blizzard –

    This book was great. It kept my attention with a few unexpected twists and turns that made it exciting. It’s is well written with believable characters. I read most of it on our cruise, but then waited a week or so to finish it, only because life was busy. When I picked it up again tonight, I remembered everything about the story. How often does that happen? Be honest. I loved the book and highly recommend it. A very good read.

  26. Daniel T –

    I throughly enjoyed this book, it was well written and thought through. Aside from a few grammatical errors I liked it. I will rear more of this authors books. The only small complaint I have is when Ben & Julie were at the truck stop and had a run in with the bad guy, they had received a ride from a truck driver saying they leaving the F450 there and said they would rent a car when they got to where they were going.

  27. Dinky Deb –

    This book surprised me time and again. I am pretty good with guessing where the story will go, but not with this one. I enjoyed the way the characters flowed and interacted within the story. A bombshell of a plot too. You will like this book if you enjoy action, detective work, wicked corporations trying to bring down America, and did I say action. Buy it, read it, then read the rest of Nick Thacker’s work. You won’t be sorry.

  28. Indycharmer –

    This was the first book I read of Nick Thacker and I’m so glad I took a chance to read it. If I can’t get into a book within the first chapter I usually move on to a new book. This book kept my interest right from the start. I enjoyed the characters , was so happy it wasn’t an “action/Thriller” that turned into a soap opera romance! You cheer for the good guys and want to go hunting to kill the bad guys.I loved how he brought in the thought of “it could really happen in this time of our life”.. We know a earth quake could easily happen.. and we know how we are keeping watch on the super volcano right now.. but how he brings it together.. I thought was amazing. I read this book in two days and only reason it took me two days is I had to stop to take care of my family ;).I hope you give it a chance and read it.. you won’t be sorry you did.

  29. C. Toste –

    I got this book as a free download and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was hocked from page one and it had me reading way passed my bedtime. Now I saw some reviews that stated the book had some technical errors, I did not really notice, but to be honest I was not looking for any either, I just want to be entertained and that is what this book provided. I loved the characters and the plot line and it had me at the edge of my seat until the end. It had plenty of action, mystery and a budding romance and it left me with wanting more, which is what you hope for in a series. I am certainly looking forward to the next book.

  30. C. S –

    The Enigma Strain (Harvey Bennett Thrillers Book 1)by Nick Thacker Mike Vendetti. NarratorIn 1704 a Russina mapping team in North America discovers a cave filledwith human bones. Within a day they are all dead.Present day, a bomb explodes in Yellowstone Park, within days many ofthe park employes are sick.Harvey “Ben” Bennett is a park ranger at Yellowstone Nat. Park.He is 32and a mostly a loner. He heard the explosion and was in the earth tremorthat followed. His partner was killed by the quake.Julie Richardson from CDC,BTR (Biological Threat Research), isinterviewing Ben in the cafeteria when excited personel rush in with a sickman. Julie and Ben leave by the back door and head to her truck. Julieknows the sick man could be contaigious. She’s right.Introverted Ben and extroverted Julie make for an unusual team. I reallyliked the way they played off each other. Glimpses into Ben’s past explainwhy he is the way he is. When the chips or down he comes through.This is one thrilling book. The back stories that give insite into the origin ofthe virus are right on. It’s not hard to believe Russina explorers were herein the early days or that their remains were found by students and takenby a big Drug Corp.I already knew that Yellowstone was a volcano. I’ve been there and seenit. Not hard to imagine what would happen if a bomb really did explodethere.The tension builds through the story untill the very end and it is an adrelinerush. I want more of Ben, but it will be hard to come up with something tobeat this novel for suspense, action, and thrills.Mike Vendetti.is the narrator and he did a splendid job of it. His readingwas clear and concise, very well done. I could listen to it for hours, in factI did. Production was perfect. No jumps, skips, or static. A perfectrendition.

  31. REP –

    A lot of elements are at play in this book. A manufactured virus, bioterror, and natural disaster all blend into an action adventure that is nicely paced. The characters are well developed and fit together in a cohesive way. The writing is descriptive and the story moves along quickly; trust me you will not get bored. Novels that get overly descriptive and that have pacing issues quickly become a snooze fest, but you won’t find that here.I never include spoilers nor give away major plot points in reviews as that takes away some of the pure joy of reading. Do yourself a favor and give this one a try! Also, don’t forget to check out Nick’s other titles. I don’t think you will be disappointed.

  32. Uma Iyer Van Roosenbeek –

    An alluring combination of mysteries of history, scientists and researchers, police and park rangers, a, assortment of other people makes this book a fascinating combination of the past leading to events that take USA by storm and almost threaten a partial extinction of the country. The book takes the readers through an electrifying journey of excitement, fear and keeps the reader in the grip of extreme suspense till the last page. The scientific part of the book was exceptionally thought-provoking and stimulating even to a retired scientist like myself!The narrative was engrossing, the characters well defined and the subject matter, the contents and context were exceptionally well researched. The reading experience was exhilarating and my voyage through this book left me totally happy and satisfied. I would recommend this book to all the fans of scientific thrillers out there!Thank you Nick for a gratifying reading experience, one I intend repeating as often as you write books!

  33. Connie Owens K. –

    I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It had a lot of action and the interplay between the characters is solid. The actual story line is not beyond the realm of possibility and the mystery; all I can say is that I thought I had it figured out only to find that I was just partly right and the rest was a surprise.One huge plus is that the editing was quite good with very few grammatical errors. For those who are offended by sexual activity in books, this one has none and it did not detract from the story but there was attraction between the hero and the heroine.I am looking forward to reading the next book.

  34. Sarah Lynn –

    I loved this book! It was a great thriller that kept me guessing until the end; I was not expecting the bad guy to be who he or she was. A strange virus and an explosion at Yellowstone (where the supervolcano is located) — all right! I’m also happy that the author left an open door for more stories to be told in this same world with the Company. I highly recommend this book; I couldn’t put it down! I love to read medical thrillers and disaster thrillers, and this one was a combination and I can’t say enough great things about it. Get your hands on a copy or e-copy of this book and give it a try — I’m sure glad I did! I look forward to reading more from this author.

  35. Dorothy –

    WOW!!! What a book! I just finished reading it. Its way past my bedtime but I couldn’t stop reading. It kept me glued to my chair to find what really happened. How did it all come out in the end? I loved the characters Ben and Julie. The book is filled with events so current that we are reading about some of this stuff daily, or certainly weekly. There is adventure, danger, medical information and romance. This is a real keeper. One you will either want to read again or for sure will think about quite a few times in the near future. BRAVO and kudo’s to the author. I will most definitely be reading some of his other writings. Most of the action takes place near Yellowstone and that is on the news quite often lately along with out of control bacteria, our CDC and the park rangers. ILf you want a book that holds your interest, this is it.

  36. E. R. Guinn –

    I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I listed it as fast pace because I had a bit of a problem putting it down. I usually figure out where a book is going, but this one kept me guessing. Lots of fun twists and turns. Characters were ‘different’, in that the main hero wasn’t the typical manly kind of guy……you know, not like us he men. But, he was balanced very nicely with the female lead and it was a very enjoyable read……one that I’ll probably want to read again in a few years.

  37. Roger Fauble –

    When I reviewed The Golden Crystal & The Depths I commented that Thacker’s writings were reminiscent of James Rollins. This book continues that thought! I’m a character reader, I get into the characters, their story, who/what they are. In this, his third book the characters were controlled and well developed. They are introduced in such a fashion that you can’t wait to turn the next page and learn more about them, and the story line even more so! The suspense builds both in the characters and the story. No spoiler’s here, though I will say I can’t wait to read his next book!

  38. Brian –

    Harvey “Ben” Bennett is a park ranger at Yellowstone National Park. While out on a seemingly routine re-home of a bear that got a little too close for comfort, a bomb goes off in the park, killing his partner on the job. Bennett is soon thrust into an ongoing investigation into a new “bug” that is causing massive boils and rashes to form and quickly spread across its victims. He joins forces with CDC investigator Juliette Richardson as they try to figure out what is going on in Yellowstone and what is causing people to break out into these rashes, and then die.I haven’t written many reviews of the Michael Crichton books I’ve read, but let me tell you that if Orwell was the first book I ever read. Jurassic Park and/or The Andromeda Strain by Crichton was the first book I ever fell in love with. This book has all the pacing, writing style, and love that I always felt in Crichton works.With that being said, I love a good bio-thriller. Anything where they dive deep into what the virus, or bacteria, or what-have-you and does it justice is usually a high rater in my book. Engima Stain just cruised up into 5 stars, the background of the disease was super interesting and I haven’t read too many books that were about a similar idea.The first thing I did when I finished this book was call up my dad and tell him I had just gifted him a copy for his Kindle. He’s a fast-paced thriller fan, and I knew that he was going to love this. Bennett’s character was just, interesting. I found myself spending time trying to figure him out, what makes him tick, why is he afraid of flying “he just doesn’t like it.”The relationship between Ben and Juliette was a nice addition for me, it didn’t feel forced or unnatural at all. Their characters, while seemingly quiet and stand-offish, were better when they were together.There were some twists in this that I didn’t expect, and when a book can do that, I’m always impressed. The relationships (both growth and history) were really nice additions without making this book super long.Overall, Thacker has done it again. Blending the pacing and science of Crichton with his own unique twists, this book is sure to please many fans over many genres.I honestly think that was the first book that I ever looked at from Thacker, but for some reason never read it. I have since read many of his short stories and I am currently reading The Depths, and enjoying that thoroughly.View more reviews of Thacker’s work and others at my blog: books.beergodblog DOT com

  39. Kindle Customer –

    I started this book, The Enigma Strain, and I could not put it down. It was outstanding! I neglected the house, my husband, even thedog. I found myself resenting having to make meals for us. The writing, the characters…wow! I strongly recommend it. However. ifyou are hooked by the Enigma Strain by Nick Thacher, I suggest you keep your Kindle in the bathroom. That way, no one canaccuse you of neglecting the family, house and family dog should anyone notice your frequent and long trips to the restroom. (It must have been something you read…Ooops, I mean ate. …) Seriously, I gave The Enigma Strain 5 stars…and I don’t freely give the stars.away.

  40. Evans –

    I liked the book. Writing was very easy to follow and the story included some interesting facts about Yellowstone and microbiology. . I gave it a 5 star because I have read (or at least started to read) a lot of badly written books and this is not that, but it is more like a 4.5 star book.There is nothing I can specifically fault and it is a great story but Ben ‘s character did not ring consistent to me (which doesn’t mean I am looking for a McGyver, Captain America, Roarke or Jack Reacher type protagonist). The problem is as I sit here and write this review, I find myself becoming more enchanted/sympathetic with/to Ben’s character. I wish I could explain it better…but then I’m an accountant, not a writer 🙂 Sooooooooooooo I am definitely going to read more of Thacker’s books and maybe subsequent storylines will ” bring it all home” for me.

  41. Kathy F. –

    I loved it, the criminals had no conscience, the good guys won, America was saved. I liked that the story was told with sex being hinted at but not explicit and that ther wasn’t any cussing. I’m always looking for books that don’t violate my morals. Most of the time when I read, I can eliminate those things and the story is just as good, or even better. Hints are fine, I have a great imagination. Loved this book and I’ve recommended it to 10 of my family members. Thank you.

  42. JJ –

    The Enigma Strain was a free download.The setting is Yellowstone National Park, under which is a giant caldera. The primary protagonists are Ben, a forest ranger at the park, and Julie, who works for the CDC. Ben and Julie are brought together when someone sets off a bomb at the park. The bomb spreads a deadly air-driven virus.This is an exciting thriller with enough mystery to make it an intriguing page turner. The characters are well developed, as is the plot, which has enough twists and turns to allow for the introduction of additional characters.While Ben and Julie are trying to determine who set off the bomb, they are also trying to find a cure for the virus.As their search progresses they learn that one or more villains have set another virus-laden bomb and that this bomb is set somewhere that will cause the caldera to explode and send lava, ash and the virus high into the atmosphere. This time the air current will drive the virus over the entire country.Will Ben and Julie be able to find the bomb in time to save our country? What of the villains? Will they get away to a safe place, or will Ben and Julie uncover their identity?I highly recommend this thriller and hope you will read it. You will keep turning pages. Enjoy!I will be reading more of Nick Thacker’s books!

  43. MadelynnF –

    Interesting plot centered on a place I love but have a healthy respect for, Yellowstone Park. The book was interesting from the start and I really enjoyed the 2 main characters personalities and interaction. Plenty of action, pretty fast paced. The writing was very good, well edited, and holds your interest. I had a hard time finding places to stop and get other things done. Really looking forward to reading The Amazon Code.

  44. G8R26 –

    Very hard to put down. Mr. Thacker’s basic premise – the manufacture and distribution of an unstoppable infectious agent – is will within the realm of modern science. For example, researchers have bee able to grow perfectly healthy mice without the contribution of female DNA … mice with only the contribution of male DNA. The possibility of producing and infectious agent is likewise only a matter of time. In the perilous times, the possibility that a terroist group might accomplish and unleash such an attack is scary beyond belief. The author’s development of his characters may not have been the best but his plot and the way he developed it kept the reader engaged. I would definitely recommend this book.

  45. Karla Andrew –

    This is a really interesting book – Though I was confused by one detail…. The original history of the virus it kills off a whole Russian exploration party when they discover the remnants of the virus…. Yet later in the book it’s made to sound like the virus has to be bioengineered to be lethal….Other than that I found the book very enjoyable and tying into the possible risks of Yellowstone is interesting….. Using it with a virus….. !!!!

  46. Kayak Jay –

    Thacker knows how to tell a suspenseful story in a way that captures the reader. A bomb exploding at Yellowstone Park sets the stage for a race against time as a loner Park Ranger joins with a woman from the CDC to uncover and try to prevent a plot to destroy the United States with a deadly toxin and a triggered volcanic eruption. The plot is quite imaginative, but the real genius is in the way the story is told. Every element of the plot is developed with suspense and eloquent description to keep the reader enthralled.

  47. Maggie Truelove –

    This book, THE ENIGMA STRAIN, was my first exposure to author Nick Thacker, but I was so impressed by this book that it will certainly not be my last! I don’t like to describe what happens in the storyline, as you have probably already read a blurb or two, but I will say that the plot is strong and well-written, maintaining the reader’s anticipation until the very end. The characters are well-done and likeable, except for those you really want to hate, of course.Nick Thacker reminds me quite a bit of some of my favorite writers, like James Rollins and Michael Crichton. In fact, THE ENIGMA STRAIN is somewhat reminiscent of Crichton’s ANDROMEDA STRAIN, which was actually my first taste of his books, many years ago.I enthusiastically recommend this book to all adventurous readers.

  48. Patti Lisenbee –

    I picked up this book a long time ago, started but never finished and don’t know why. The story is a powerhouse of a thriller, taking the reader along with the protagonist on a rush to find the problem and fix it. The writing is well-researched and written out, the characters believable and fully human. I give this book 5 stars and have started the second book in the series.Taborri Walker, author of the Earth Maid series

  49. Linda Davis –

    I received this book in exchange for a review. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours. We have a park ranger at Yellowstone who gets involved with the CDC after a bomb caused earthquake releases an ancient deadly virus. They follow their hunches gathering data and dodging men who are willing to commit murder to achieve their agenda. I know I’ve said this before and it remains true. Nick Thacker is an author to watch.

  50. Layne –

    I usually don’t read techno thrillers, I got this book for free for an fair review, that being said it was worth the time I spent reading.I like hot coffee, this book probably won’t let you drink it hot. So drink your coffee sit down & hold on, fast paced, lots of action.I likes the main characters, how they interacted with each other, Mr. Thacker developed them as the book progressed, until I felt I knew them & in doing so I was a part of them.

  51. nancy isenberg –

    I am definitely reading Harvey Bennett books out of orderBut this the first was an amazing setup for what comes next

  52. Marvin H. Moon –

    I really enjoyed reading Enigma Strain from cover to cover. It is really well written and I really enjoyed reading it

  53. STEPHEN E FRANK –

    A most interesting story in a extremely important geological area of our very own supervolcano at Yellowstone.A page turner with twists and turns with two intriguing characters.

  54. rlptwo –

    I’m not a big reader of the giants of fiction thrillers at $10.00 or more a pop. I’ve read 400+ fictional books, novels and novellas in the last five to seven years, only a few of which were more than six bucks each. I read for enjoyment and relaxation and I read mostly bargains that get my imagination going and keep me reading incessantly. This book, along with several other of Nick Thacker’s have served me well in my reading. The tension that builds as the story moves on is like adrenaline to me. I can’t get enough of it. Of course I’m ticked when the villains don’t go down but I know, if it’s a series, they will. And that’s good enough for me. Happy reading, folks, and keep cranking them out, Nick!

  55. AnAmazonCustomer –

    I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters that were developed and I was intrigued enough to immediately move onto book 2 to see what happened to them next!

  56. Jim McKay –

    Set in Yellowstone Park, starts off peacefully with Ben a ranger going about his job and enjoying the beauty around him. He quickly gets caught up in a plot which includes a deadly virus that was released there. Working with Julie of the CDC, they are thrown into a complicated plot to destroy America. We’ll written, suspenseful with characters that you are drawn to. Loved this story and look forward to reading more about their journey.

  57. Christi Paschen –

    I love all of Nick Thacker’s books! They are always charming and exciting and keep your attention all the way through.

  58. Carole Willis –

    I loved all of this book… I couldn’t stop reading it. Great job. Can’t wait until the next in the series.

  59. Kindle Customer –

    Nick Thacker takes some facts about Yellowstone and creates a knuckle whitening page turner from them, well worth the time to read more than once.

  60. Nana H –

    I agree with everyone else. This is a fast-paced, action-packed and Technothriller with conspiracy, medical thrillers and virus-based apocalyptic themes. I look forward to reading the next story.

  61. Richard Gabriel –

    The author has written a story of intriguing and suspenseful that will keep you entertained and guessing as it unwinds and the plot becomes clear. Very enjoyable reading.

  62. Miran –

    WOW,exciting! This bok was definitely one of the best bio-thriller i have ever read this year and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.An absolutely wonderful series with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing.I can’t wait to read the next book.

  63. Tracy –

    Pretty tight and well written. Had quite a few editing errors (poor grammar and repeated paragraphs) that were disconcerting and hard to figure out. More time spent on a final edit would not be a waste of time. The story was interesting and the characters likable and sympathetic, although I personally would have liked more depth. I bought the second book in the series, so hopefully the characters will gain more depth and backstory, rather than just the archetype big, strong quiet male lead and savvy, smart-but-vulnerable female lead.

  64. Cole –

    This book was intriguing enough to keep me up late reading. I liked the plot and the fairly low key romance.

  65. Jesse –

    Finally, an introvert who actually acts like one. Ben avoids conversiations and emotional displays and gets surly when forced to interact. It’s heartwarming watching a CDC agent get under his skin and draw him out. I’ve always feared an extrovert adopting me, but I wouldn’t mind if it was Julie. So much anyhow. This book is fast paced as noticed, but the author manages to get us to care about Ben and by the conclusion, when he makes a big decision, I feel so bad for him. To have your whole world view changed through even more tragedy and fear is sad, and as there are plenty more books in this series, I’m guessing he takes his vow to get back at the villains seriously. Don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom, some of the one liners made me laugh and the action scenes are fun.

  66. Kindle Customer –

    Othe author did a great job on this thriller.Removed the dead wood characters with dispatch and surprise. Enjoyed the read.

  67. Daniel S. Schwartz –

    There are always bad guys but I love when there is a hero. My kinda reading. A page turner for anyone.

  68. Jerry –

    This is a very well put together story line that holds your interest throughout. The main characters are well developed and fit together in an effective manner to add a lightness to the story. Good read.

  69. Cindy – –

    A faced paced thriller, closely resembling our recent tribulations that hits close to home. Excellent read! You won’t be disappointed.

  70. Douglas Pratt –

    Great story from Nick Thacker. It’s high-octane fun with some great characters. Loved it.

  71. Michael E. Flanagan –

    Wasn’t so sure about Ben in the beginning, but I like the character. A really good book. Looking forward to reading the series.

  72. Dawn Peterson –

    An excellent thriller! Characters are well written and the plot moves at a good pace. This is a book with a lot of moving parts, and well placed twists! It will keep you engaged and ready for more.

  73. vicki –

    I don’t know much when it written about the medical field but it is very interesting to learn about it.

  74. Bookaholic –

    I recommend The Enigma Strain for any reader who appreciates the tight tension of an impending disaster tangled with the human reactions of a person who doesn’t really want to be a hero. Throw in a little humor and a touch of romance and you have an experience! I may read this one again.

  75. Btree82 –

    Exciting, and reader not drawn to actual conclusion. Could use a bit more character development, but hopefully that will come with next book..

  76. Linda G –

    A page turner! Loved every second of it! Would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good science mystery. I will read more of this author’s work!

  77. Susan –

    I was looking for a new series to read, and I have found it! It took a little bit to really get into this first book, as the characters are very different than the “usual” characters. This difference is what sets this book apart from so many others. The excitement of the action kept me reading as I learned to love the protagonists. By the time I finished this book, I was hooked and the characters were clear in my mind and heart!

  78. kutzkai –

    I thought this was a darn good read & a great start to the Harry Bennett Series, I will go on to the next book, and just enjoy them.

  79. Mr.Bill –

    I was going through my collection of books and realized I had not completed this series by Nick Thacker. So I reread Enigma Strain this week and became eerily aware of a disturbing similarity with the events in this book and current events. This is a very entertaining story with more than a few ah-ha moments. Now, on to the Amazon Code.

  80. Jobu2u –

    My first Thacker book and really enjoyed the first of the series. It keeps you into it as it moves you through the action. The true test of any series is how the characters develop and can the books progress and not become same characters different obstacles but same story. Will read book 2 and let you know how it goes.

  81. Arthur Rosenblatt –

    This was a fast paced action thriller, with continuing twists. Just when you think you know who is who, you find out a new twist, and you are constantly wondering so Ben and Julie can trust.

  82. Saundra Wright –

    I actually started reading this author’s work later on with the Jo Bennett books. They were awesome. So I have gone back to pick up this series. It is just as well plotted and action packed as his later books.This book was perfect reading for the end of 2020!

  83. Kindle Customer –

    A deadly disease from a previous generation that started out okay but morphed over the 100s of years it was in all those burial honor boxes. Follow the money honey agreed. What makes someone want to wipe out a good portion of the US? Bring the US to it’s former self? To rule the world? To be a self imposed ruler? Will Ben and Julie go back to their previous lives or will the hunt continue? Great job. Looking forward to Book 2. Thank you.

  84. Steve Harper –

    Having just finished ‘The Enigma Strain,’ I join the growing number of those enjoying Nick Thacker’s writing. I am already into ‘The Amazon Code,’ and I have ‘Ice Chasim’ waiting in the wings. My five-star rating is my way of commending ‘The Enigma Strain’ in particular, and Nick Thacker’s writing in general.

  85. Rabid Reader –

    A highly contagious, manufactured bioweapon has just been released in Yellowstone National Park. But that’s not even the worst problem. Racing a countdown, Harvey Bennett and his friends discover a plot to explode a bomb under Lake Yellowstone that will set off an extinction level event. The Enigma Strain is exciting from page one to the very end. I highly recommend this book!

  86. Kindle Customer –

    I really liked this story, the author made this story so real life to me. I visited Yellowstone years ago, and the author did his homework! I researched some things out, and he has it on the money about the geography stuff. It makes the story feel like this could really happen. Brings back memories of the park, only place like it anywhere. If I make another trip there someday, I will be looking around remembering how real this author made it all feel.I recommend this book highly, edge of the seat stuff…

  87. Petie Brown –

    I met Nick Thacker here in Hawaii. Really nice guy. I’m actually amazed at his skill for keeping me on edge all the way till the end. Very current and engaging characters. I now plan to read another in this series.

  88. Will P. –

    Great intro to the series as Ben and Julie fight to understand a mysterious virus in Yellowstone. Loved the fast paced chapters and the build up to a booming end. Looking forward to checking out more in the series.

  89. Eric Lorenz –

    This was an exciting read. The storyline draws you in and keeps you engaged without going overboard. No heavy sexual overtones to take away from the main story. A definite must-read!

  90. Tony –

    Could a virus be released into the United States and kill a large portion of the population. That appears to be the premise of the story. And it appears it could. Could we do anything about it?

  91. James R Dunlap –

    Great readI enjoyed his style of writingFirst time reading his booksLook forward to reading more of his material

  92. JW. Tice –

    Enjoyed the book. The bringing together two logically potential disasters was a good story by the author.I look forward to reading another Bennett book.

  93. Gypsy tiger –

    I have only recently discovered Nick Thatcher… and I’m glad I did. He tells a great story coverage all the points relationships interaction between characters none of this is too much….like. excess details about the kiss. I definitely recommend him I’ve read four of his books and he’s great

  94. giffergirl –

    A fun afternoon adventure romp! The plot is basic good guys v. Bad but it is well written and entertaining!

  95. Steven Williams –

    This is a good thriller. Well-paced and kept my interest throughout. Left an opening to the potential of future involvement with the Company.

  96. Kelley Thomason –

    After reading this book, I had to see when it was written. Amazingly similar to recent pandemic happenings, but written 6 years ago! This is a great read with a realistic plot and believable characters. I couldn’t put it down! Can’t wait to read the next one.

  97. Nancy –

    I really enjoyed this book. It’s an edge-of-your-seat, page turning thriller. The time line jumped around a bit, but other than that, great for a binge read.

  98. John Ames –

    I was expecting a totally different story, more in line with other popular authors, but was pleasantly surprised. Believable characters both good and bad. As well as several surprising twists.

  99. Larry K –

    I picked up this book due to the title not knowing what to expect. Inside I found a thrilling action novel that had me reading day and night to find out where the bomb was located. One to book 2!

  100. kikitty –

    It’s really funny that this book came out around this Virus… Wuhan Flu or not, this is an exceptional read about a distinct possibility of things that can get completely out of control when the evil people in power decide they’re going to kill a society and population and Nation to suit their own greedy power-hungry needs. Excellent Story Nick Thatcher. Already Read the Amazon Code and several other books of yours and I have to tell you you did not disappoint; you never do.

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About Nick Thacker

About Nick Thacker

Nick Thacker is the USA Today Bestselling Author of action-adventure thrillers and mysteries, including the Harvey Bennett Thrillers series. Often mentioned as a cross between Clive Cussler and James Rollins, his stories are written in a fast-paced, punchy style.

He lives on a volcano in Hawaii with his wife, two kids, and two dogs.

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