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The Fifth Column #2
The Seraphim Sequence
The world is reeling in the aftermath of genocide.
Former black operative Sophia is among the remnants of the Akhana, a once-strong organized resistance against the all-powerful world government known as the Fifth Column. Branded as the world’s most wanted terrorist, Sophia barely escaped her last encounter with the organization with her life.
Now a new threat is emerging from inside the Fifth Column. Project Seraphim: a technology utilizing extremely low frequencies that can make anyone feel and do anything at any time. Mass populations will fall under the influence of an almost unlimited power.
To stop them Sophia must join forces with former friends turned enemies and former enemies turned unlikely allies first among them Denton, a master manipulator whom she would prefer to run her knife through than work with.
Sophia has four days. Four days before what little freedom the human race has left is gone forever.
The brutal game of betrayal and counter-betrayal that began with the international bestseller, The Chimera Vector, continues in this highly anticipated sequel.
Former black operative Sophia is among the remnants of the Akhana, a once-strong organized resistance against the all-powerful world government known as the Fifth Column. Branded as the world’s most wanted terrorist, Sophia barely escaped her last encounter with the organization with her life.
Now a new threat is emerging from inside the Fifth Column. Project Seraphim: a technology utilizing extremely low frequencies that can make anyone feel and do anything at any time. Mass populations will fall under the influence of an almost unlimited power.
To stop them Sophia must join forces with former friends turned enemies and former enemies turned unlikely allies first among them Denton, a master manipulator whom she would prefer to run her knife through than work with.
Sophia has four days. Four days before what little freedom the human race has left is gone forever.
The brutal game of betrayal and counter-betrayal that began with the international bestseller, The Chimera Vector, continues in this highly anticipated sequel.
482 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2013
17 people are currently reading
852 people want to read
About the author
Nathan M. Farrugia
21 books460 followersNathan M. Farrugia is the USA Today bestselling author of the Helix and Fifth Column sci-fi thriller series.
Nathan is known for placing himself in dangerous situations, including climbing rooftops in Russia and being hunted by special forces trackers in the United States. He studies Systema, a little-known martial art and former secret of the Russian special forces.
Beyond his army training, Nathan has trained under USMC, SEAL team, Spetsnaz and Defence Intelligence instructors, and the wilderness and tracking skills of the Chiricahua Apache scouts and Australian Aboriginals.
Nathan is known for placing himself in dangerous situations, including climbing rooftops in Russia and being hunted by special forces trackers in the United States. He studies Systema, a little-known martial art and former secret of the Russian special forces.
Beyond his army training, Nathan has trained under USMC, SEAL team, Spetsnaz and Defence Intelligence instructors, and the wilderness and tracking skills of the Chiricahua Apache scouts and Australian Aboriginals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 21, 2013
4 Stars
The Chimera Vector, the first book to the Fifth Column Series rated a 3.5 stars from me. This was due in large part to the fact that it lack a certain polish from other action adventure books I have read.
What struck me in the Seraphim Sequence was a noted improvement in the quality of the writing which may have been due to better editing. Regardless the reason, the second book in the series is superior to the first. Unlike the first, the characters are more fully developed and a unique family structure is created with the characters. At times in the first book, the dialogue came off as generic but that is rarely the case in this book.
Unlike other action adventure novels, The Fifth Column Series is not as focused on one indestructible hero as Shane "Scarecrow" Schofield in a Reilly novel or the indestructible Dirk Pitt in a Cussler novel. There is a greater focus on the team which from my experience is different from the average novel in this genre.
On the topic of genre, I have stated that it is action/adventure but, especially in the second of the series, a near equal part science fiction. Modified super-soldiers anyone?
This book marks a clear maturity in the author and am excitedly awaiting his next book.
The Chimera Vector, the first book to the Fifth Column Series rated a 3.5 stars from me. This was due in large part to the fact that it lack a certain polish from other action adventure books I have read.
What struck me in the Seraphim Sequence was a noted improvement in the quality of the writing which may have been due to better editing. Regardless the reason, the second book in the series is superior to the first. Unlike the first, the characters are more fully developed and a unique family structure is created with the characters. At times in the first book, the dialogue came off as generic but that is rarely the case in this book.
Unlike other action adventure novels, The Fifth Column Series is not as focused on one indestructible hero as Shane "Scarecrow" Schofield in a Reilly novel or the indestructible Dirk Pitt in a Cussler novel. There is a greater focus on the team which from my experience is different from the average novel in this genre.
On the topic of genre, I have stated that it is action/adventure but, especially in the second of the series, a near equal part science fiction. Modified super-soldiers anyone?
This book marks a clear maturity in the author and am excitedly awaiting his next book.
May 5, 2013
Nathan has obviously been inspired by the Matthew Reilly handbook on how to write nonstop action..... or maybe he moonlights as script writer for Total Recall or Die Hard movies.... because once you start reading you are completely mezmorised
There are spectacular explosions and fights in large shopping malls, subway stations,airports and my all time favourite high speed car chases...
Sophia finds out that her blood is unique... of course she get a cool name... Phoenix
Cecilia offers Sophi drug (an anti Chimera vector) which will take away her guilty feelings ... after Sophia stabs Cecilia once in the neck she crushes the needle that was on the floor...
Is there any joy in the future for this group??
There is only isolated cases of happy feelings - lots and lots of negative ones
The bad guys are still 'out there'
the resistance has lost a lot of bases around the world
Denton turns up and causes friction ... gets what he wants and then disappears again
They always seem to accomplish their objectives..... but little else...
There are spectacular explosions and fights in large shopping malls, subway stations,airports and my all time favourite high speed car chases...
Sophia finds out that her blood is unique... of course she get a cool name... Phoenix
Cecilia offers Sophi drug (an anti Chimera vector) which will take away her guilty feelings ... after Sophia stabs Cecilia once in the neck she crushes the needle that was on the floor...
Is there any joy in the future for this group??
There is only isolated cases of happy feelings - lots and lots of negative ones
The bad guys are still 'out there'
the resistance has lost a lot of bases around the world
Denton turns up and causes friction ... gets what he wants and then disappears again
They always seem to accomplish their objectives..... but little else...
June 4, 2013
After reading the Chimera Vector I became a Farrugia fan and had to read the sequel as soon as I found the time. Just like in the first one, this is not a short book by any means, but anyone who's read the first one knows that once you start reading you can't stop and you don't want it to end.
All the action that I really enjoyed in the first one and hoped would continue... the sequel blew that out of the ballpark. Throughout the book just when I thought I could start predicting what would happen next, I was often wrong. Seraphim Sequence had me constantly on my toes wanting to find out what happened next. The author was quite good at sprinkling in some humor in even the darkest of circumstances, like when Jay made the Call of Duty reference.
The twists, plots, and battles are something I expect to find in a sci-fi book, but until now never convinced me of a story's authenticity and realism. Whereas Seraphim Sequence had me thinking of the possibilities presented in our reality.
The ending was really satisfying and it seems the story is over. But the conversation in the diner between Sophia, Nasira, Damien and Jay might suggest otherwise. They got me thinking we may get the third installment in the series!
All the action that I really enjoyed in the first one and hoped would continue... the sequel blew that out of the ballpark. Throughout the book just when I thought I could start predicting what would happen next, I was often wrong. Seraphim Sequence had me constantly on my toes wanting to find out what happened next. The author was quite good at sprinkling in some humor in even the darkest of circumstances, like when Jay made the Call of Duty reference.
The twists, plots, and battles are something I expect to find in a sci-fi book, but until now never convinced me of a story's authenticity and realism. Whereas Seraphim Sequence had me thinking of the possibilities presented in our reality.
The ending was really satisfying and it seems the story is over. But the conversation in the diner between Sophia, Nasira, Damien and Jay might suggest otherwise. They got me thinking we may get the third installment in the series!
October 2, 2014
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I thought I was ready for Nathan Farrugia’s The Seraphim Sequence after having survived the events of The Chimera Vector along with it's characters. I have to admit, I should have practiced my mental covert resistance training first. From page one, the drama is in full swing as those left from the once strong Akhana are still hacking away at the all-powerful and vile Fifth Column. Sophia, once a guinea pig for the Fifth Column is now considered a terrorist and the reason behind that involves the mass genocide the world has faced. IS the former black ops specialist the perpetrator or just another victim of twisted technology and the government’s secret agendas? Dejected, demoralized and determined, the guilt-ridden Sophia must rely on trust, a commodity not easily shared or found. The problem is, who can she trust to take down the global power of the Fifth Column? How can she expose them or at least thwart their plans? There’s a time limit on her seemingly suicidal mission, the clock is ticking and the fate of the world is in the balance. Can she hold it together long enough to complete what may be her final mission?
Once again, Nathan Farrugia had me white-knuckling it all the way, holding my breath, cringing and dodging bullets, swords and anything else thrown in the way of this group of “altered” heroes. The groundwork is already in place, so the depth of this story grew exponentially as each character, old and new came off the pages, guns blazing! Mr.Farrugia has it all covered, from hand to hand combat, shoot outs, mad chase scenes and high octane tension as he presents a frighteningly scary version of a world gone wrong while “that guy on the street” remains totally clueless until it’s too late.
Want some intriguing dialogue that brings even more depth to a deadly scenario? It’s here, as well as the truly evil, the genuinely good and the sense of family that is shared by Sophia and her group. Better than any fast-paced, high action film, better than a video game with over the top heroes, The Seraphim Sequence doesn’t TELL you what to see and feel. There is no flashing through scenes at an erratic pace to create tension and you won’t suffer from carpal tunnel as you hit a level that re-energizes your characters. What there is, is a blank canvas waiting to play in your mind, you are the director, the characters and part of the world you visualize, thanks to the creative genius of Nathan Farrugia and his gift for story-telling. This is why I love to read, when words come to life in your mind, a great story becomes even better.
I received a copy from Nathan M. Farrugia in exchange for my honest review and honestly, I clicked BUY on the next book within 2 minutes of finishing this one.
Series: The Fifth Column - Book 2
Publication Date: March 15, 2013
Publisher: Momentum
Genre: Science Fiction/Thriller
Print Length: 482 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
October 2 - 16, 2014
Click on Banner to Enter!
Tome Tender Exclusive!
I thought I was ready for Nathan Farrugia’s The Seraphim Sequence after having survived the events of The Chimera Vector along with it's characters. I have to admit, I should have practiced my mental covert resistance training first. From page one, the drama is in full swing as those left from the once strong Akhana are still hacking away at the all-powerful and vile Fifth Column. Sophia, once a guinea pig for the Fifth Column is now considered a terrorist and the reason behind that involves the mass genocide the world has faced. IS the former black ops specialist the perpetrator or just another victim of twisted technology and the government’s secret agendas? Dejected, demoralized and determined, the guilt-ridden Sophia must rely on trust, a commodity not easily shared or found. The problem is, who can she trust to take down the global power of the Fifth Column? How can she expose them or at least thwart their plans? There’s a time limit on her seemingly suicidal mission, the clock is ticking and the fate of the world is in the balance. Can she hold it together long enough to complete what may be her final mission?
Once again, Nathan Farrugia had me white-knuckling it all the way, holding my breath, cringing and dodging bullets, swords and anything else thrown in the way of this group of “altered” heroes. The groundwork is already in place, so the depth of this story grew exponentially as each character, old and new came off the pages, guns blazing! Mr.Farrugia has it all covered, from hand to hand combat, shoot outs, mad chase scenes and high octane tension as he presents a frighteningly scary version of a world gone wrong while “that guy on the street” remains totally clueless until it’s too late.
Want some intriguing dialogue that brings even more depth to a deadly scenario? It’s here, as well as the truly evil, the genuinely good and the sense of family that is shared by Sophia and her group. Better than any fast-paced, high action film, better than a video game with over the top heroes, The Seraphim Sequence doesn’t TELL you what to see and feel. There is no flashing through scenes at an erratic pace to create tension and you won’t suffer from carpal tunnel as you hit a level that re-energizes your characters. What there is, is a blank canvas waiting to play in your mind, you are the director, the characters and part of the world you visualize, thanks to the creative genius of Nathan Farrugia and his gift for story-telling. This is why I love to read, when words come to life in your mind, a great story becomes even better.
I received a copy from Nathan M. Farrugia in exchange for my honest review and honestly, I clicked BUY on the next book within 2 minutes of finishing this one.
Series: The Fifth Column - Book 2
Publication Date: March 15, 2013
Publisher: Momentum
Genre: Science Fiction/Thriller
Print Length: 482 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
June 25, 2013
So I just finished the seraphim sequence, and I think it might have been just in time, judging by the black eyes and bloody nose i seem to have suffered on the wild ride that starts at the first page and doesn't let up until the very end. So caught up in the story of Sophia's continuing fight against the evil shadow government, complete with explosion, guns and the mandatory flipping of vehicles and femme-kickassery, that i didn't notice the several punches to face the story gave me. Thank the gods its not more action packed than it is, because I doubt I would have survived another chapter.
Be warned: Once you meet Sophia, you will never be the same. Read at your own risk.
*This comment will self destruct in five...four...three...
Be warned: Once you meet Sophia, you will never be the same. Read at your own risk.
*This comment will self destruct in five...four...three...
July 19, 2014
This book & the previous one show a lot of the Matthew Reilly formula. Brief & simple character development, a lot of military-technical strategy, and a ton of over the top techno-military action. in other words, a large body count, graphic violence, and many explosions.
It's a good read, as long as you know what to expect. I find it entertaining as a slam-bang action story, but it could have been more interesting with more back story about the Fifth Column history and the overall world situation.
It's a good read, as long as you know what to expect. I find it entertaining as a slam-bang action story, but it could have been more interesting with more back story about the Fifth Column history and the overall world situation.
June 29, 2013
A very nice sequel to The Chimera Vector. What had been a deterrent for me in the 1st book (complicated plot, too many people often changing sides) was not present in this one. The plot was more polished and flowed well throughout the book and the characters had a depth that made them very loveable.
I will be looking forward to the next book and more adventures for Sophia, Damien, Jay and Nasira.
I will be looking forward to the next book and more adventures for Sophia, Damien, Jay and Nasira.
August 9, 2013
After reading Mr. Farrugia's "The Chimera Vector" I was delighted to discover that the sequel was available to read. It took me longer to read due to other commitments but finally I was able to finish.
Now we all know that sequels often don't measure up to the debut novel. Well I believe me this sequel is not going to disappoint readers. If anything it takes the story of Sophia and her team to new heights so get ready for a super roller coaster ride bigger than the last one.
I was taken immediately by the storyline and the amazing action scenes. After the debut novel I thought I'd seen it all but here the action is beyond that. These were new scenes mind you, not rehashed ones from the first book. There were so many memorable ones I can't begin to mention them all and I am sure that every reader is going to have their favorite. Mine is Damien's battle in the market. It is a true work of art and I loved every minute of it.
In this book Sophia and her team join forces with what is left of the resistance to try and stop the Fifth Column's new weapon. There are characters here that will surprise the reader and there will be new characters as well that are fascinating. The author doesn't just leave us with the same set number of characters and villains. He is always adding and changing people which keeps the excitement and mystery to the story. I think readers want to continue wondering who is the real enemy and if anyone can actually be considered a friend in this harsh world.
There are some new biological weapons but the emphasis is more on the weapons and what a fantastic array of them we have. Once again the author has done his homework. It is done so well that you can actually visualize these weapons and creatures and that allows the battle scenes to become even more exciting. You are drawn into the story with each page and with so much action it is like you are running with Sophia scene to scene.
In the midst of all of this we still are learning more about Sophia who is truly the central character of everything that is happening here. She is a truly amazing woman but she is also extremely vulnerable. At the same time we learn more about the two team members closest to her, Damien and Jay. I have to admit I have a deep fondness for these two characters. The author has also introduced us to characters who are part of an outside resistance in the U.S. This allows the reader to see how radically the country is changing and how little they understand what is happening as well.
As with the first book I reached the end and felt that some achievements had been made in the fight but I knew that the true battle was only beginning and I look forward to the continuing saga here. You always want to leave the reader wanting more in this type of tale. I'm not sure how many volumes the author has planned here but I know that I'm going to be along for the ride until the end.
Now we all know that sequels often don't measure up to the debut novel. Well I believe me this sequel is not going to disappoint readers. If anything it takes the story of Sophia and her team to new heights so get ready for a super roller coaster ride bigger than the last one.
I was taken immediately by the storyline and the amazing action scenes. After the debut novel I thought I'd seen it all but here the action is beyond that. These were new scenes mind you, not rehashed ones from the first book. There were so many memorable ones I can't begin to mention them all and I am sure that every reader is going to have their favorite. Mine is Damien's battle in the market. It is a true work of art and I loved every minute of it.
In this book Sophia and her team join forces with what is left of the resistance to try and stop the Fifth Column's new weapon. There are characters here that will surprise the reader and there will be new characters as well that are fascinating. The author doesn't just leave us with the same set number of characters and villains. He is always adding and changing people which keeps the excitement and mystery to the story. I think readers want to continue wondering who is the real enemy and if anyone can actually be considered a friend in this harsh world.
There are some new biological weapons but the emphasis is more on the weapons and what a fantastic array of them we have. Once again the author has done his homework. It is done so well that you can actually visualize these weapons and creatures and that allows the battle scenes to become even more exciting. You are drawn into the story with each page and with so much action it is like you are running with Sophia scene to scene.
In the midst of all of this we still are learning more about Sophia who is truly the central character of everything that is happening here. She is a truly amazing woman but she is also extremely vulnerable. At the same time we learn more about the two team members closest to her, Damien and Jay. I have to admit I have a deep fondness for these two characters. The author has also introduced us to characters who are part of an outside resistance in the U.S. This allows the reader to see how radically the country is changing and how little they understand what is happening as well.
As with the first book I reached the end and felt that some achievements had been made in the fight but I knew that the true battle was only beginning and I look forward to the continuing saga here. You always want to leave the reader wanting more in this type of tale. I'm not sure how many volumes the author has planned here but I know that I'm going to be along for the ride until the end.
February 19, 2014
When I had finished the first book in the series, The Chimera Vector, the conclusion was pretty much that it was a very good book but that it was not really my cup of tea. I did however find the book as such a very good and well written book. The fact that the first book is a debutant work was rather stunning given the quality of the work. Thus I was quite interested in seeing what happened to Sophia and how she and the author developed.
Thus here we are. I have now read the second book in the series, The Seraphim Sequence. On the whole I think the conclusions from the previous book are still fairly valid for this book. It is a very good action/techno-thriller but it is not really my cup of tea.
One thing I had hoped was that Sophia would now have the backing of a another secret organisation opposing the Fifth Column but this is never really the case. The beginning is especially disappointing in this sense. It gets a bit better but as in the previous book the plot twists and surprises are plentiful and Sophia and her friends are on a McGyver-diet when it comes to equipment a lot of the time.
Also similar to the previous book the Fifth Column are blamed for pretty much everything from the grasshoppers of Egypt to obesity. The conspiracy theories are multiplying like rabbits and halfway through the book I was starting to look around for a tinfoil hat to wear.
If you can live with the conspiracy theories, plotting and backstabbing the story is not really bad and it does indeed make a good job of holding everything together not to mention stringing together all the action, the latter which is as plentiful as the plot twists and conspiracies. Actually I think these books would make excellent action movies.
Anyway, bottom line is that if you like action and do not mind a lot of backstabbing and conspiracies within conspiracies this is a book for you. Myself I am not too much into that stuff and since this is my non-professional and personal review that is pretty much the only reason for my average rating of it.
Thus here we are. I have now read the second book in the series, The Seraphim Sequence. On the whole I think the conclusions from the previous book are still fairly valid for this book. It is a very good action/techno-thriller but it is not really my cup of tea.
One thing I had hoped was that Sophia would now have the backing of a another secret organisation opposing the Fifth Column but this is never really the case. The beginning is especially disappointing in this sense. It gets a bit better but as in the previous book the plot twists and surprises are plentiful and Sophia and her friends are on a McGyver-diet when it comes to equipment a lot of the time.
Also similar to the previous book the Fifth Column are blamed for pretty much everything from the grasshoppers of Egypt to obesity. The conspiracy theories are multiplying like rabbits and halfway through the book I was starting to look around for a tinfoil hat to wear.
If you can live with the conspiracy theories, plotting and backstabbing the story is not really bad and it does indeed make a good job of holding everything together not to mention stringing together all the action, the latter which is as plentiful as the plot twists and conspiracies. Actually I think these books would make excellent action movies.
Anyway, bottom line is that if you like action and do not mind a lot of backstabbing and conspiracies within conspiracies this is a book for you. Myself I am not too much into that stuff and since this is my non-professional and personal review that is pretty much the only reason for my average rating of it.
December 2, 2013
Nathan has done it again and raised the stakes so high . I cannot imagine what the third book will be like but the fate of the world depends on it as well as I am sure his cadre of loyal fans . He did everything he did in the first book and then improved upon it weaving another legacy of intrigue interwoven with History , peppered with technology and tempered with the host of engaging characters that remained alive form the initial novel . I cannot wait for the follow up to this . This is an Author I will follow to the depths .
The Chimera Vector: The Fifth Column 1
The Seraphim Sequence
Nathan M Farrugia
New Author E.E.Borton has done the same .
Without
Suffer
Abomination
E.E. Borton
The Chimera Vector: The Fifth Column 1
The Seraphim Sequence
Nathan M Farrugia
New Author E.E.Borton has done the same .
Without
Suffer
AbominationE.E. Borton
January 4, 2016
Just finished this book and what I have to say is WOW. Its like Game of Thrones, you are not sure which character is loyal to whom. Allegiances shift in an instant and you can get confused amidst it all.
Shout out to Mr. Nathan Farrugia for setting the first part of the Book in the Philippines. With a lot of Filipino references like Cordillera Mountain coffee (which personally I haven't tried yet) and the dayap fruit and a funny scene with an Upo (which according to the book is a radioactive zucchini. Lol) to Jollibee and their Chickenjoy Fried Chicken (which I personally miss eating) to a spectacular chase and fight scene from NAIA terminal 1 culminating inside Robinson's Mall in Malate. I am not a native of Manila but I want to visit that mall again just to see how Sophia and the gang moved around, wreaking havoc inside it. And of course, Boracay island. I've been there and I cannot imagine how the Fifth Column can cause such mayhem without destroying part of the island since it is so small and congested. For this Mr. Farrugia I say thank you. :)
The world the author describes the book in is kind of dystopic where the world is on the brink of worldwide anarchy orchestrated by psychopaths. Not exactly in the level of zombie apocalypse outrageous but kind of plausible where you think that it could really happen in the future.
The characters, having been defined by the previous book, grow and branch out on their own. I'm hoping Jay is not killed in the next book since he keeps the mood light with his quips. Sophia's inner conflict is in the likeness of female characters like Katniss Everdeen and Nikita and I'm curious as to how this plays out in the next novel. I hope the development is better and out of the box.
Overall this is a GOODREAD. 4/5 stars!
Shout out to Mr. Nathan Farrugia for setting the first part of the Book in the Philippines. With a lot of Filipino references like Cordillera Mountain coffee (which personally I haven't tried yet) and the dayap fruit and a funny scene with an Upo (which according to the book is a radioactive zucchini. Lol) to Jollibee and their Chickenjoy Fried Chicken (which I personally miss eating) to a spectacular chase and fight scene from NAIA terminal 1 culminating inside Robinson's Mall in Malate. I am not a native of Manila but I want to visit that mall again just to see how Sophia and the gang moved around, wreaking havoc inside it. And of course, Boracay island. I've been there and I cannot imagine how the Fifth Column can cause such mayhem without destroying part of the island since it is so small and congested. For this Mr. Farrugia I say thank you. :)
The world the author describes the book in is kind of dystopic where the world is on the brink of worldwide anarchy orchestrated by psychopaths. Not exactly in the level of zombie apocalypse outrageous but kind of plausible where you think that it could really happen in the future.
The characters, having been defined by the previous book, grow and branch out on their own. I'm hoping Jay is not killed in the next book since he keeps the mood light with his quips. Sophia's inner conflict is in the likeness of female characters like Katniss Everdeen and Nikita and I'm curious as to how this plays out in the next novel. I hope the development is better and out of the box.
Overall this is a GOODREAD. 4/5 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2014
SO. MUCH. ACTION.
Ever since reading The Chimera Vector I've been a fan of Nathan Farrugia. The Seraphim Sequence was a great read. The plot was great (although not as good as The Chimera Vector) and it had many edge of the seats moments, specially at the end of the book. Even though Sophia is the main protagonist of the series, she's a glutton for punishment during the first half of the book. But that's not a bad thing as it brought about a sense of realism. I wouldn't expect Sophia to take out a bunch of Stormtroopers all by herself as she has no special ability unlike the rest of her team. It was intriguing and really exciting to read how they faced off against their enemies being both outnumbered and lacking in resources.
Personally I felt a little betrayed when you get to find out that but overall it played out well.
Excited to read the next installment in the series!
Ever since reading The Chimera Vector I've been a fan of Nathan Farrugia. The Seraphim Sequence was a great read. The plot was great (although not as good as The Chimera Vector) and it had many edge of the seats moments, specially at the end of the book. Even though Sophia is the main protagonist of the series, she's a glutton for punishment during the first half of the book. But that's not a bad thing as it brought about a sense of realism. I wouldn't expect Sophia to take out a bunch of Stormtroopers all by herself as she has no special ability unlike the rest of her team. It was intriguing and really exciting to read how they faced off against their enemies being both outnumbered and lacking in resources.
Personally I felt a little betrayed when you get to find out that but overall it played out well.
Excited to read the next installment in the series!
August 25, 2014
I must say that I liked the second book was even more than the first. Overall the pacing was great and once the main thrust of the action gets wound up, it doesn't really let off for very long at all. I particularly loved some of the improvised weapons.
With regards to plot, the timeline somewhat tight in places, but this is also typical of the thriller genre. This book does place a good bit of emphasis on teamwork and coordination. Its fun watching the plans take shape, and equally fun watching all the crazy improvisation when things go off the rails.
Though this should go without saying, as the second book in a series its not a good starting point. Previous characters and events are revisited as necessary for context, but in a cliff notes sort of way. It would function as a stand alone, but it wouldn't sing. This is generally pretty standard for books in a series, of course.
With regards to plot, the timeline somewhat tight in places, but this is also typical of the thriller genre. This book does place a good bit of emphasis on teamwork and coordination. Its fun watching the plans take shape, and equally fun watching all the crazy improvisation when things go off the rails.
Though this should go without saying, as the second book in a series its not a good starting point. Previous characters and events are revisited as necessary for context, but in a cliff notes sort of way. It would function as a stand alone, but it wouldn't sing. This is generally pretty standard for books in a series, of course.
October 4, 2013
What a fantastic sequal to "The Chimera Vector" fast paced and exciting from start to finish leaving you wanting more. The characters have developed greatly as the tale has unfolded, leaving you with a sense of knowing exactly who these fantastic people are and what drives them to do what they do and more importantly WHY?
Another reason to love this book is you never know who to love or hate with so many twists and backstabbings, just when you are starting to like someone they turn out to be a complete ass!(or shot in the face by one) Love that!
Fagoogoo (read the "About Nathan M Farrugia" section of the book) is a brilliant young writer who knows exactly what he is writing about with his knowledge of weaponry and geography adding spectacular performance to this tale of violence,intrigue and emotion.I am looking forward to the next installment with baited breath, read this book, you will not be disappointed.
Another reason to love this book is you never know who to love or hate with so many twists and backstabbings, just when you are starting to like someone they turn out to be a complete ass!(or shot in the face by one) Love that!
Fagoogoo (read the "About Nathan M Farrugia" section of the book) is a brilliant young writer who knows exactly what he is writing about with his knowledge of weaponry and geography adding spectacular performance to this tale of violence,intrigue and emotion.I am looking forward to the next installment with baited breath, read this book, you will not be disappointed.
September 7, 2014
NONSTOP ACTION
Sophia and her trusted band of Akhana resistance fighters, outnumbered and outgunned, carry on the battle against the Fifth Column against seemingly insurmountable odds. Sophia must locate, target, and eliminate the Fifth Column’s Seraphim array before it can be used to control humankind worldwide. Seraphim’s limited yet targeted use is already suspected of creating timely riots to influence or control the outcome of high profile events. Sophia is joined in her quest by former enemies as they are chased and attacked around the globe. Akhana bases and safe havens fall like dominoes. It seems the Fifth Column is always one step ahead. Sophia gains new allies, while losing friends and companions, yet must warrior on. When Seraphim is stopped, the battle will be won. Right? Or is there yet another threat lurking. Read and find out. You can’t help but enjoy this adventure.
Sophia and her trusted band of Akhana resistance fighters, outnumbered and outgunned, carry on the battle against the Fifth Column against seemingly insurmountable odds. Sophia must locate, target, and eliminate the Fifth Column’s Seraphim array before it can be used to control humankind worldwide. Seraphim’s limited yet targeted use is already suspected of creating timely riots to influence or control the outcome of high profile events. Sophia is joined in her quest by former enemies as they are chased and attacked around the globe. Akhana bases and safe havens fall like dominoes. It seems the Fifth Column is always one step ahead. Sophia gains new allies, while losing friends and companions, yet must warrior on. When Seraphim is stopped, the battle will be won. Right? Or is there yet another threat lurking. Read and find out. You can’t help but enjoy this adventure.
September 25, 2013
Writing a sequel is never an easy task; expectations are high especially from the reader's perspective. I was glad to have discovered this author, truly enjoyed the Chimera Vector and was eager to read this next installment. To say that Farrugia did not disappoint would be a huge understatement. He absolutely nailed it! This is a great sequel because he has taken all the main ingredients, i.e. creative writing, character development, plot twists, and action-packed pace to the next level. I particularly appreciated getting to know more about each member of the "good guys" and how they interacted with one another and all this while they were being pursued, shot at and blown up. If you have not read Farrugia's books, you are definitely missing out on the fun. Hopefully, we will not have to wait too long for the next installment.
October 24, 2016
I enjoy the relationships between the characters and a few plot twists. Small factual mistakes take away from the seriousness of the story; humidity does not make things dry fast and you can not start a car with a cheat movement. Difficult to follow some of the fight/chase scenes. One minute they are in a traffic jam then the next they are speeding down a highway or they may have five minutes before something big happens then the next sentence it has happened. This series is best read one after the other. The more time between books the less understanding and momentum there is. Personally this book felt like the middle of a novel and not its own book. The potential science in the story is fascinating. I would only recommend this book to people who have read the first book and intend to finish the series.
November 26, 2013
“The Seraphim Sequence: The Fifth Column 2” – by Nathan M Farrugia: A Science Fiction novel full of political intrigue and para-military action. The cast will be familiar if you have read “The Chimera Vector”, also by Mr. Farrugia. Sophia is again the lead character. Underestimate her at your peril. The tale is fast paced with rarely a dull moment. The war against the chillingly psychopathic leadership continues to unfold in this fast flowing story of human struggle to restore democracy to a world generally unaware of the surreptitious control by the few. I could have easily given this book and the earlier work five stars because I enjoyed reading both of them and understand how much care went into each of them.
September 17, 2014
Before you pick up this book, set aside a day, get your snacks ready, take the phone off the hook, because you will not want to put it down. This is just as good, if not better than the first book in the Fifth Column series. I had to keep telling myself to breathe as the main characters seemed to leap from once adrenalin packed moment to the next.
The only thing holding me back from 5 stars is that I got a bit lost with the fight scenes and have trouble visualising what is going on.
Regardless, another great book from this Australian author. I look forward to the third book that has just been released.
The only thing holding me back from 5 stars is that I got a bit lost with the fight scenes and have trouble visualising what is going on.
Regardless, another great book from this Australian author. I look forward to the third book that has just been released.
August 17, 2014
So.
This book is simultaneously awful and awesome.
Awesome, of course, because of the nonstop action, the combat operative banter, and the plot that just will not let you catch your breath.
Awful, because it is all tremendously believable, and makes you really wonder how much of this has been tested already. I know, I know. I better go get my tinfoil hat ready now. But seriously, the thought of some of this stuff is fucking scary.
But awesome. So yes. I just pre-ordered book 3, which if you haven't done yet, you can do on Nathan Farrugia's website, and you should. Because these books are fricking awesome.
This book is simultaneously awful and awesome.
Awesome, of course, because of the nonstop action, the combat operative banter, and the plot that just will not let you catch your breath.
Awful, because it is all tremendously believable, and makes you really wonder how much of this has been tested already. I know, I know. I better go get my tinfoil hat ready now. But seriously, the thought of some of this stuff is fucking scary.
But awesome. So yes. I just pre-ordered book 3, which if you haven't done yet, you can do on Nathan Farrugia's website, and you should. Because these books are fricking awesome.
November 12, 2013
Wow!!! and I thought The Chimera Vector was a thrill ride. Book number two in the Fifth Column series makes the first one seem like a kiddie ride. Non-stop action plus twists and turns you never expect. I literally could not put it down, much to my husband's consternation. I finished the last chapter on my iPhone while sitting in the stands of a college football game no less. I cannot wait to read more about Sophia and her band of misfits. Keep up the good writing Nathan! But do it quickly - this fan is eagerly awaiting the next chapters.
January 15, 2014
Wow. What a ride this book takes you on. Non stop action all the way through. I thought Chimera was a wild ride, well Seraphim didn't disappoint. This young Australian author is going to give many of his peers a lot of competition in the chase of number one novel. Nathan has such an imagination and uses it to his full potential. I certainly advise you to read his books, and follow in Sophia and friends adventure on a quest to save everyone and everything. So looking forward to the next installment. Thankyou Nathan for another fast paced novel, thoroughly enjoyed it.
August 26, 2013
Again, I read this a while ago so can't remember all the details.
However, I did think it was much better written than the first book. It flowed better and was a real page-turner. I'm still not sure about the motivations of the baddies though and hope that gets cleared up in a future book/books which I am really looking forward to by the way.
Excellent plotting though, a real change from the usual conspiracy theory format.
However, I did think it was much better written than the first book. It flowed better and was a real page-turner. I'm still not sure about the motivations of the baddies though and hope that gets cleared up in a future book/books which I am really looking forward to by the way.
Excellent plotting though, a real change from the usual conspiracy theory format.
Read
February 23, 2016It was a good second book. The action didn't slow down from one book to the next. A matter of fact I am pretty sure that Sophia got herself in some tight spots throughout the book and that I closed my eyes for some of them. Jay, Damien and Nasira are with her in this book. Some people are lost but it is all to save the world from The Fifth Column. It was a good book and I can't wait to see what happens next in The Phoenix Variant.
July 15, 2014
Wow. I don't know if I've ever read more exhilarating action. This book is definitely quite a thrill. I enjoyed it even more than the first one as you get to find out a little more about the characters as you go. I particularly liked Sophia in this book as she seemed more intense and definitely on edge. The whole "nothing left to lose" scenario makes it quite the ride. I still struggle with some of the more technical aspects but it doesn't take away from the overall story. A great read.
September 15, 2014
This second in the Firth Column series books is better than the debut novel, The Chimera Vector. I like the way the author pushes technology a bit but makes the whole thing come together. The characters in this novel are better developed and the bantering between each of the characters are great. This book series would make an outstanding SciFi channel series. I can't wait to read the next book - "The Phoenix Variant."
August 29, 2015
The arranging sequence nathan farrugia
This is the second book of the series. A masterfully written novel!! Atomically charged, suspense, intrigue, betrayal!!! Every chapter is full of action, drama to new heights!! I know I stated in my last review that if you want the ultimate techno thriller this it!! But guess what? Now you have one more to add to your list!! I've already started to read the third book of the series!
This is the second book of the series. A masterfully written novel!! Atomically charged, suspense, intrigue, betrayal!!! Every chapter is full of action, drama to new heights!! I know I stated in my last review that if you want the ultimate techno thriller this it!! But guess what? Now you have one more to add to your list!! I've already started to read the third book of the series!
August 6, 2013
Tag along with Sophia and her team as they save the world again! No really this was a great book. Just enough twist and turns to keep it interesting but not to many as to confuse the reader.
If you liked the first book in this series you will love this one. Yes there is more back stabbing / double agent work and you will be surprised.
If you liked the first book in this series you will love this one. Yes there is more back stabbing / double agent work and you will be surprised.
January 21, 2015
More Conspiracy Theories
This is book 2 but Farrugia has taken a bit more time to build a plot and flesh out the characters. There is still the fast action. There is still the well choreographed fight and battle scenes but in this book, the reader gets to take a breather long enough to deal with the intrigue.
This is book 2 but Farrugia has taken a bit more time to build a plot and flesh out the characters. There is still the fast action. There is still the well choreographed fight and battle scenes but in this book, the reader gets to take a breather long enough to deal with the intrigue.
February 6, 2014
Enjoyable, even if there are a couple of problems, good action especially towards the end. It seems to me the author was inspired (or thought about) movies while writing some parts, because they are very visual and would work well (if at times a bit cliche) on tv/movies, but don't work as well on page. Tempting to give it 4 due to the strong ending.
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