I could not finish this book. I had a hard time getting past all of the times they used the word chink to describe an Asian person. I understand they were trying to portray a gruff, rude character, but I believe it was way overdone. I also felt like the writing was a bit amateurish. I would not recommend this book to any of my students or friends.

Michael Kough has found the cure for the common cold, and now people are after him. The story is told through several characters’ perspectives, but Kough is the main point of view. Kough often has conversations with his brain which he refers to as Big Brain and is described by others as the genius part of his brain. The other part of his brain is extremely impulsive and stupid. In fact, his character is just all over the place, one minute he’s a mastermind, the next he’s a killer; he can captain a boat and even fly a plane after only reading the manual. Nothing about this book was based in reality. It was filled with unfounded masculine confidence, racist stereotypes, and far too much action for action’s sake. The book was in need of a good editor for length, characterization, and consistency.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with both an advanced ebook copy and audiobook copy of this book. Sorry, I hated it.

Action packed adventure. I found pieces of this to be beyond believable but it was a fun book. Certainly gave me things to think about.

This book took me a bit to understand due to the main character calling his brain big brain and having conversations with himself. Once I figured that out the book was good. It's something I can see happening in real life and I'm sure it has happened. Listening to all of his trials after making a life saving vaccine is very interesting. You are constantly waiting for his luck to run out. The book kept me entertained and I was always trying to figure out what the main characters next move is going to be. I recommend it if you are looking for an action packed book.