Assessment:
Plot: Richman’s highly eventful plot is suspenseful and teeming with twists and turns. Readers may anticipate some of the storyline’s zigzags, but they will be gratifyingly surprised at the cliffhanger ending.
Prose/Style: Richman’s prose stumbles at times due to its complexity – but in the end, the interstellar plot is enhanced by the distinctive style.
Originality: The Chiral Protocol deftly mixes sci-fi and thriller elements, but the added bioterrorism elements make the story stand out.
Character Development/Execution: Richman’s characters are too numerous to track, sacrificing depth for quantity. Citizen General Che Josza is a standout, and his capacity to play both sides makes him an admirable deuteragonist.
Date Submitted: July 27, 2021
"The elements of good science fiction and an electrifying military thriller are melded in this one, and while it is the second book in the series, it reads well as a standalone novel. The author brings to life a world that brims with conflict...the writing is superb."
"...a veritable tour de force that is cleverly plotted, flawlessly executed, and utterly original. ...This is a top-tier thriller with a monumental conflict and sophisticated characters."
