Customer Reviews

Nerve Endings

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

While chronologically Martin's second novel, it is a clear departure from his now more familiar style of historical narration first used in Back Bay and then in his last three novels. Martin demonstrates his story telling ability without relying on history as a frame work. I was hooked from the first chapter and plowed through the near 500 page book in less than two days. Martin displays an uncanny abilty to lead the reader in one direction then turning the plot quickly almost 180 degrees while maintaining the integrity of the story. More than once I was totally surprised. It made for a most enjoyable read.

For fans of Martin's more contemporary works this is an enjoyable change of pace, yet shows all the craftmanship in storytelling we have come to expect from Martin.

While the best known works of Martin are historical, this book may accurately be classified as premonition. Published in 1984, Martin accurately predicts what has become a core problem in American society. If for no other reason the book should be read for this, but it is a great story.

"Nerve Endings" has intrigue, romance, and action. To balance the fantasy with a reality-check, it embeds political/technology issues and links them with the cable-TV industry. It presents physical/ethical issues by focusing on a kidney transplant recipient and a broken marriage. It mixes the glamour of Hollywood executives with grassroots Iowa farmers and hardworking Maine lobstermen. It got my attention and, after a fashion, I was amused, surprised, and riveted.

Mr. Martin's forte is that he keeps the reader magnetically drawn to continue reading. I'm not easily surprised and yet I was fooled when the plot took unexpected twists. Of particular note was the clever elimination of "a bad guy". Later, the handling of simultaneous actions in the last action-scene was impressive. I was even somewhat annoyed when phonecalls interrupted my reading. Bravo!

"Nerve Endings" is adventurous. It has both cruel and tender moments and it is a thriller for men and women alike. The story is enhanced with cross-country locations, nature's seasonal beauty, with regional dialects, and with references to appropriate background music. More importantly, emphasis is placed upon a spirit of survival, determination, the pursuit of honorable happiness, and the kindnesses of strangers.

All-in-all, reading "Nerve Endings" was fun and I recommend it. Enjoy! ... And when you're done with "Nerve Endings", read Mr. Martin's "Harvard Yard" and "Citizen Washington". They're even better.

Matin's tale of a broadcast giant trying to influence politics via a in-home cable response system, is as entertaining as it is relevant with todays internet capabilities. A fast enjoyable read with enough adventure, crime, and science to thrill non-stop. WARNING: Book does not come with bulletproof vest. (The only way to put this book down is at gunpoint, and you may opt for the bullet.)

The wrong book was sent, and this book never arrived. I read a library copy instead, and the company refunded the money. They were very cooperative, and I will order from them again.

The book arrive on time and in the condition that it was promised. I would definately order from them again.