Digital Fortress by Dan Brown

Published: 1998
Genre: Fiction, thriller
Pages: 430

When the NSA's invincible code-breaking machine encounters a mysterious code it cannot break, the agency calls in its head cryptographer, Susan Fletcher, a brilliant and beautiful mathematician. What she uncovers sends shock waves through the corridors of power. The NSA is being held hostage... not by guns or bombs, but by a code so ingeniously complex that if released it would cripple the U.S. intelligence. Caught in an accelerating tempest of secrecy and lies, Susan Fletcher battles to save the agency she believes in. Betrayed on all sides, she finds herself fighting not only for her country but also for her life, and in the end, for the life of the man she loves. (from backcover)

Digital Fortress is not a book I would have chosen on my own. Basically, I read this one out of desperation - I had no unread books in the house and needed to satisfy my craving. So, I borrowed this one from a friend who hasn't yet read it.

If you haven't read any books by Dan Brown (The Da Vinci Code, anyone?) you might not fully understand me when I say how terribly bland his writing is. I wouldn't call this guy an author - I'd classify him as a literary entertainer. It seems like he's totally unaware that adjectives exist, or that you are indeed permitted (and encouraged) to make your readers feel emotion while reading your novel. Brown's writing is so flat and linear that you should never pick up one of his novels expecting to dazzled by his way with words. I'd like to include a passage from Digital Fortress to give you an example of what I mean. But really, the whole book could be used as one big example to prove my point.

Since I never only talk about the bad points of a novel, I will be fair and say what I did enjoy. I must admit, this was an addicting book. Obviously it wasn't because I enjoyed Brown's writing, but because the storyline had so many cliffhangers and unanswered questions, making you want to keep reading and find out the truth. One chapter leads to the next, which leads to the next, which leads to you spending hours on end turning the pages. The only complaint I have about the plot is that, at times, it seemed a bit too theatrical. Dangerous car chases while shooting at your enemy through the window? Yeah, that kind of action belongs in a movie, not a poorly written book. However, if you enjoy mystery and suspense, you will devour this book in a matter of hours without a doubt.

As I said before, I consider Dan Brown to be an entertainer over an author. He's great at creating an exciting and intriguing plot that, if you can ignore his mediocre writing style, is sure to keep you interested.

Final verdict: Borrow this one from the library if you're someone who enjoys a bit of action and suspense - it's sure to keep you entertained for a few hours. Do not read it expecting to have a new favourite author, though. You'll be disappointed.

Full Tilt by Neal Shusterman

Published: 2004
Pages: 201
Genre: YA fiction

Blake and Quinn are teenage brothers, but are exact opposites. Blake is the smart and sensible one, while Quinn is risky and fearless. While at the local theme park with some friends, the boys receive a mysterious piece of paper from a girl reading: "An invitation to ride. 10 Hawking Road. Midnight to Dawn." Confused but interested, they leave to go home. Later that night, Quinn is rushed to the hospital, apparently unconcious. However, Blake has a different theory - him and his friends follow the directions on the invitation and enter this obscure and perplexing phantom carnival. To rescue Quinn, they're taken on a thrilling and deadly adventure on seven rides, in hopes to make it out alive.

I recently re-read Full Tilt, the reason being because I had vivid memories of loving it years before when I first purchased it. The second time around, however, was not the same memorable experience as before! Let me elaborate.

I'll start off with the general plot. I found it to be cheesy and unoriginal, almost as if the author wrote it with the intention of turning it into a Disney movie. Seven rides that mimic your deepest fears? Originality? Not quite. Perhaps this concept might have worked if it was writen properly, who knows?

The characters have no depth; to me, they seemed fake and not very believable. It's clear that Shusterman attempted to depict them as people that the average teen could relate to, but instead they all turned out as the classic, stereotipical teenager - complete with the junky first car, nose piercing, and annoying younger brother.

Okay, enough about the negatives. Let's focus on some of the positive aspects of this novel. For one, Full Tilt was short. I don't mean this in a sarcastic way at all; rather, in a good way. If you're searching for a quick, easy read to kill some time, this might be your answer. It's not overly boring and will probably keep your interest while it lasts. But please, look into this book with the knowledge that you will most likely not find it engaging or creative.

Final verdict: Not worth the read.