If She Wakes - Michael Koryta

If suspense, mystery, non stop action and a factor of 10 for unputdownabilty sounds good to you, then you're going to want to pick up Michael Koryta's latest book, If She Wakes.

University student Tara is chauffeuring a visiting lecturer to his next talk when they are involved in a terrible accident. The lecturer is killed and Tara is grievously injured and left in a brain dead state - or so it appears. Abby is a insurance adjuster battling her own demons. But she is certain that the crash was not an accident. Her investigation starts a horrifying chain of events.

Could there be anything more frightening than locked in syndrome? Able to hear what's going on around you, but unable to respond and let the world know you are still here. The reader is privy to Tara's thoughts and shares the frustration of not being able to communicate.

Koryta has created a wonderful lead character in Abby. Her background is completely different - former stunt car driver. The reasons for her change of career make her more 'real'. That background figures into much of the action in the book and is really well done.

And you know there's a 'bad' guy lurking in the shadows right? Well, this is one of the best antagonists I've read in a long time. I had chills whenever he appeared. The supporting players are also given detailed characterizations, such as Tara's sister Shannon and bit players like Salvage Sam.

The plot is inventive and unpredictable. There's are some plot turns that require a few grains of salt, but just go with it. And resist the temptation to peek ahead a few chapters. If She Wakes is action packed, guaranteeing a frantic 'just one more chapter' read. Pure escapist reading - here's an excerpt of If She Wakes.

You can connect with Michael Koryta on his website and follow him on Twitter. He's firmly on my 'must read' list.