Review: TSI: The Eyam Factor

The Eyam Factor By Walt Larimore & Paul McCusker A top-secret group of forensic scientists investigates the past to save the future when a deadly plague infects innocent people. But as they study how an English village survived the 17th-century Black Death, they encounter 21st-century grave robberies, grisly murders, and a ghost! Who's trying to stop them from learning the truth---and why?

I really enjoyed this book. It has a novel idea: what if the solutions to some of today's medical/bio-warfare problems can be solved by the epidemics and plagues of yesterday. It's a suspense on a global scale -- had some Clancyesque feel to it. LOVED it! It is not for the faint of heart or big-honking chicken club card-carrying members though.

Why? Because the disease is an incredibly virulent strain of Ebola. Government agencies and a pharmaceutical company battle each other and an environmental organization that wants nothing more than to kill millions. The core of the book becomes the team of TSI: a forensic group that focuses their skills on the past.

The pages turned quickly as I tried to figure out how the different threads would come together. First, you have the government trying to stop the spread of this disease. Then you have the events in a tiny English village -- some from 1666, and some modern day. Add in the pharmaceutical company and the crazy environmentalists with international implications and the plot is a dizzying web of activity -- perfect for someone who loves thrillers. Overwhelming for those who don't like that pace and stakes.

The interactions of people's faith or lack of were woven into the story, only in rare spots stopping the plot. And the hint of romance left room for much to happen in sequels. The strength of this story is the question...will the government find the source of the plague and will TSI find the key to a cure? Be forewarned: the body count is high. This is the kind of book I would read again, but keep on a high shelf so little eyes can't read it before they're ready.

I can't wait to read the next TSI installment. A very creative concept set in a genre I love.