'The Rhythm Section' follows the intense journey of Stephanie Patrick, a woman in mourning after her family perishes in a terrorist attack. In her quest for vengeance, she assumes various identities and delves into the gritty world of espionage. As she transforms into a lethal operative, Stephanie uncovers shocking truths about herself and the forces at play. With heart-stopping action and emotional depth, the novel explores themes of loss, redemption, and the quest for justice. Will Stephanie find the closure she desperately seeks, or will the rhythm of revenge consume her?
By Mark Burnell
Published: 2019
"In the midst of chaos, the rhythm of purpose beats loudest."
The international thriller that's the basis of the major motion picture from the producers of the James Bond film series, starring Jude Law and Blake Lively. Mark Burnell's riveting thriller The Rhythm Section begins with the crash of flight NEO027. The crash destroys Stephanie Patrick's life: her family was on board and there were no survivors. Devastated, she drops out of college and her life spins out of control as she enters a world of drugs and prostitution--until a journalist discovers that the crash wasn't an accident. There was a bomb planted on the plane. Filled with rage, and with nothing left to loose, she focuses on one goal: revenge. The opportunity to obtain it arrives quickly when Stephanie is approached and recruited by an extremely covert intelligence organization. She is young, smart, and beautiful--and has no family, making her the perfect candidate. The organization offers her a deal. She must undergo rigorous training; learn how to control her heart rate and breathing ("the rhythm section"); and learn how to efficiently use weapons. Then, she will assume a new identity and commit acts of terrorism on behalf of the organization. When she completes these assignments successfully--and proves her loyalty--she will be offered the opportunity to take out the terrorists who brought down flight NEO027. She has nothing to lose. As "Petra," a mercenary terrorist based out of Germany, and as "Marina," an international businesswoman based in London, she enters the brutal world of international espionage, and adapts quickly. She is able to numb her feelings and act on instinct alone. But as the stakes get higher, Stephanie begins to question what her value really is. Is the organization telling her the truth--do they know who caused flight NEO027 to explode? Or are they using her for some other agenda? More important: Is avenging her family worth the price she is paying? And if it isn't--will the organization that created her let her go?
Mark Burnell is a British author best known for his gripping thrillers, particularly the 'Gemma Byron' series, which showcases his talent for weaving intricate plots and crafting complex characters. His notable works include 'The Truth Factory' and 'The Perfect Wife', where he demonstrates a keen ability to blend suspense with psychological insight. Burnell's writing style is characterized by its fast-paced narrative, sharp dialogue, and rich detail, often drawing readers into a world filled with tension and intrigue. His mastery of the thriller genre has earned him a dedicated readership and critical acclaim.
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In "The Phoenix Project," chaos reigns at Parts Unlimited, a car manufacturer struggling to keep up with a rapidly changing tech landscape. When IT manager Bill Palmer is unexpectedly thrust into a project vital for the company's survival, he discovers the interconnected challenges of people, processes, and technology. As he navigates through daily crises and corporate politics, Bill learns the transformative power of DevOps principles. Can he turn the company around before it's too late? This compelling tale blends fiction with valuable lessons, making it a must-read for anyone facing modern business challenges.
In 'White,' Bret Easton Ellis unveils a provocative exploration of contemporary culture, identity, and the complexities of modern existence. Through a series of candid essays, he confronts the absurdities of privilege, fame, and the pervasive nature of social media. Ellis challenges readers to reflect on the meaning of authenticity in a world obsessed with image. As he oscillates between personal anecdotes and cultural critique, he sparks debate on race, politics, and the art of storytelling. Prepare to be intrigued and unsettled by his unapologetic voice in a narrative that blurs the lines between truth and fiction.
In 'The Robber Barons', Matthew Josephson explores the cutthroat world of America’s Gilded Age, illuminating the lives of tycoons who amassed vast fortunes while bending the rules of capitalism. Through gripping narrative and rich detail, he unveils the morally complex legacy of figures like Carnegie and Rockefeller. Readers will encounter tales of ambition, greed, and the relentless pursuit of power that shaped a nation. But beneath the surface of wealth and success lies a darker story of exploitation and social upheaval. This book invites you to question the price of progress and the human cost of the American Dream.
In 'American Mania,' Peter C. Whybrow explores the obsessive pursuit of wealth and success that defines American culture. He delves into the psychological underpinnings of a society that equates more with happiness, unraveling the consequences of this relentless drive. Through captivating anecdotes and scientific research, Whybrow illustrates how such mania can lead to dissatisfaction and mental health crises. Readers are challenged to reconsider their own values in a world where enough is never enough. This thought-provoking examination will leave you questioning what true fulfillment really means in contemporary America.
In 'The Control of Nature,' John McPhee explores humanity's relentless struggle to harness and manipulate the forces of nature. Through captivating narratives, he delves into three distinct locations, revealing the intricate dance between engineering prowess and natural chaos. Readers are drawn into the heart of Louisiana's eroding coastline, volcanic threats in Los Angeles, and the daunting challenges of managing the Mississippi River. With vivid characters and dramatic stakes, McPhee raises profound questions about control, survival, and our impact on the environment. This masterful work invites readers to ponder: can we ever truly dominate nature, or are we mere players in its grand design?
'Astounding' by Alec Nevala-Lee delves into the golden age of science fiction, exploring the life and legacy of the influential magazine Astounding Science Fiction. It uncovers the stories of legendary authors like Isaac Asimov and Robert A. Heinlein, whose imaginative works shaped modern storytelling. The narrative oscillates between personal anecdotes and historical events, revealing the profound impact of science fiction on culture and technology. As secrets of the genre's creation are unveiled, readers are invited to consider how these visionary tales have foretold our future. A captivating blend of biography and cultural critique, this book promises to astound and inspire.
In 'Lincoln in the Bardo,' George Saunders weaves a haunting tale set in the graveyard of Georgetown, where the spirit of Abraham Lincoln's son, Willie, lingers after his untimely death. The narrative unfolds through a chorus of voices—both living and dead—creating a rich tapestry of grief, love, and the struggle for understanding. As Lincoln grapples with his loss, spectral figures provide profound insights into the nature of mortality and the afterlife. This unique blend of historical fiction and the supernatural invites readers to reflect on the connections between the living and the dead. Prepare to be captivated by a story that transcends time, examining the very essence of humanity.
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“In the midst of chaos, the rhythm of purpose beats loudest.”
The Rhythm Section
By Mark Burnell
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