Trojan

James Follett is a British author who has been in print since 1976, writing both sci-fi/futuristic technothrillers and World War 2 dramas such as THOSE IN PERIL and U-700. He also penned THE TIPTOE BOYS, one of the first SAS novels. This book, TROJAN, is just superb. It's an exciting thriller set around the world of nanotechnology and biological computer chip possibilities. Beverly Laine is the heroine of this story, who invents the KRONOS nanochip which revolutionises technology. But when nasty accidents occur when the chips become infected, she launches her own investigations and discovers that billionnaire media tycoon Marshall Tate may be responsible. However, his chain of computerised casinos begins to catch a computer virus and people suddenly win massive amounts unexpectedly! But this is not all . . . what is the significance of a space probe to MArs to retrieve Martian soil samples? What exactly is the nature of the Trojan virus? The plot will keep you guessing! Follett also brings his previous work at the BBC into the plot when he flashes the story back to the 1960s and Marshall Tate's first hand at filmmaking and Beverly's schooldays and a past romance - this part of the plot also charts baddie Marshall Tate's rise to fame well. This was written around 1992, but set in the early 21st century - and Follett has a habit of predicting things as best he can. Digital satellite TV, nanotechnology, the Internet, virtual reality, mobile phones and their increasingly widespread use and even digital speed cameras to catch dangerous drivers are featured, one wonders whether in years to come Follett will be looked upon as another George Orwell. Anyway, don't miss this exciting and very prophetic and original novel. If you like this one also check out DOMINATOR and SABRE by the same author.