ASIN: B005OAHNZQ Publisher: Manana Press List Price: $0.99

I had originally scheduled reviews for Zero Sum to be on Wednesday, Saturday, and Wednesday. But I forgot to take into account that I can't stand to set down a Russell Blake novel once I've picked it up. Once I started Kotov Syndrome (book 1) I just had to continue onto to Focal Point (book 2) and naturally, as I was already 2/3 of the way done, I had to keep going to Checkmate (book 3) all in the same day. Well, it more was like into the night, but I HAD to finish what I'd started. What this means, is I altered my review schedule so you too could jump from one to the other. All 3 books in the trilogy will be posted back to back (Friday, Saturday, Sunday).

Do you remember Steven Cross from The Voynich Cypher, which was reviewed on March 14th? Well, he's back. Sort of. He's not Cross yet, and Kotov Syndrome is actually part of a series that came before The Voynich Cypher, but the Zero Sum trilogy gives you Stephen's background. Though you don't need this trilogy to read the newer Stephen Cross book, it's nice to have the full details of how he got to where he is.

Zero Sum, Book 1: Kotov Syndrome is typical of Blake's style. It's a fast-paced, edgy, thrilling, action-packed,  suspenseful read. Stephen takes on a Wall Street mogul, not understanding the bigger picture, and thrusts his life and those of whom he loves into a world of corruption, deceit, and violence. Steven soon finds out just how much money can buy and that corruption knows no bounds.

Another great Blake story to keep you on the edge of your seat, that also examines our society and multiple systems in it, as he asks the questions that need asking. Blake will always entertain you while he creates a world that requires you to open your mind to the very possibility of "Could it be true?"