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The Carolina Variant
Tess Oliver's memory is a killer. When the lead that could save her law practice is destroyed in a suspicious fire, only her recollection of it remains. Tess can relive memories, but her gift comes at a cost. The last time she used it, she nearly died. This time, she only takes a peek. A single moment spent in her memory of the defendant's encoded document gives her a brutal migraine and a phone number. Luke Broussard answers her call from the wreckage of a downed plane. His charter passenger is dead. A mutated virus seeps from the man's broken cargo. And when rescuers take Luke to an Atlanta hospital, the virus comes with him. Tess follows her lead to Luke and finds an instant connection. As they run from a psychopath who'll stop at nothing to retrieve the document, the city falls apart around them. The code hidden in Tess's mind may be the only thing that can keep the outbreak contained, but using her gift to decipher it could kill her. If the virus – or whoever engineered it – doesn't get to her first.
333 pages, Paperback
Published June 21, 2023
About the author
Brooke L. French
2 books112 followersBrooke L. French is a recovering lawyer turned writer. She is the author of Inhuman Acts, The Carolina Variant, and Unnatural Intent (coming October 24, 2024).
Brooke lives with her husband and sons between Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. She spends most of her days gleefully researching and writing about fatal viruses, terrorism, and murder.
Brooke is likely on numerous watch lists.
Brooke lives with her husband and sons between Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. She spends most of her days gleefully researching and writing about fatal viruses, terrorism, and murder.
Brooke is likely on numerous watch lists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 25, 2023
What might happen if a virulent variant of the Marburg virus or Ebola, somehow gets to be set loose in a large city? What if it were to spread across the whole of the States?
And what if it weren't an accident,but a means to fulfil certain Malthusian remedies for over-population with an agenda?
These are the issues that Tess Oliver, a lawyer just setting out on her career, ends up having to face. In the beginning, Oliver's concerns are purely personal: getting enough business to pay the rent before the bailiffs come knocking, and gaining credibility. However, when she comes across a mysterious document and recognises that some of the mysterious marking on it are phone numbers, she becomes a marked woman. Especially when one of these numbers just happens to be that of a small-plane pilot who has mysteriously crashed in a forest.
The pilot ends up in hospital, then around him people start to die horribly.. The pandemic protocols that soany of us have learnt about first hand not so long ago, spring into action. Like Covid, it appears that the virus seems to strike down minorities who are poor, although some minds are beginning to suspect the common denominator is not to do with poverty, but rather with something a lot more sinister.
Tess's lack of confidence has to do with a gift, or a photographic memory. However, this gift brings not only physical dangers to herself, but from those who have powerful sectrszs they wish to hide. But will Tess and the pilot who becomes her ally and lover be able to get to the truth before they are neutralised? And will there be an antidote to the virus?
This is a good nail-biting thriller, with a touch of romance added to the mix too. The nail biting will continue until virtually the ending too. There is a touch of science_fiction to some of the ideas behind how the Carolina variant was created - as will all horror too, in reading this, recent traumas can be relived safely.
And what if it weren't an accident,but a means to fulfil certain Malthusian remedies for over-population with an agenda?
These are the issues that Tess Oliver, a lawyer just setting out on her career, ends up having to face. In the beginning, Oliver's concerns are purely personal: getting enough business to pay the rent before the bailiffs come knocking, and gaining credibility. However, when she comes across a mysterious document and recognises that some of the mysterious marking on it are phone numbers, she becomes a marked woman. Especially when one of these numbers just happens to be that of a small-plane pilot who has mysteriously crashed in a forest.
The pilot ends up in hospital, then around him people start to die horribly.. The pandemic protocols that soany of us have learnt about first hand not so long ago, spring into action. Like Covid, it appears that the virus seems to strike down minorities who are poor, although some minds are beginning to suspect the common denominator is not to do with poverty, but rather with something a lot more sinister.
Tess's lack of confidence has to do with a gift, or a photographic memory. However, this gift brings not only physical dangers to herself, but from those who have powerful sectrszs they wish to hide. But will Tess and the pilot who becomes her ally and lover be able to get to the truth before they are neutralised? And will there be an antidote to the virus?
This is a good nail-biting thriller, with a touch of romance added to the mix too. The nail biting will continue until virtually the ending too. There is a touch of science_fiction to some of the ideas behind how the Carolina variant was created - as will all horror too, in reading this, recent traumas can be relived safely.
August 20, 2023
Title: The Carolina Variant
Author: Brooke L. French
Release Date: June 22nd, 2023
Page Count: 347
Format: Paperback
Start Date: July 5th, 2023
Finish Date: July 8th, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars
Review:
So, I read this author’s debut novel, Inhuman Acts as well. I thought that book was pretty dark. That book had nothing on this book at all. This book was so dark and intense. I was on the edge of my seat at every turn. I just couldn’t even fathom how something like that could be let out into the world on purpose. I did draw some parallels to the book and certain recent events. I’ll leave it at that.
I have to be honest, the beginning of the book kind of went over my head. Once I was getting absorbed into the world, I did have to go back and read the first part of it. It hit me completely differently the second time around. This book is a medical thriller.
I both want this book and her other book to become audiobooks and movies, but I also don’t. I think I’d be too scared listening to or watching the events that take place in this. I think they would have to keep the gore levels down a bit. Not that the book is very gory. But the subject can head in that direction. It’s still an amazing book. I’m so glad that I read it. I’m glad that I read her other book as well. I will be looking for releases from this author from here forward. Especially if they are as intense as this book.
Author: Brooke L. French
Release Date: June 22nd, 2023
Page Count: 347
Format: Paperback
Start Date: July 5th, 2023
Finish Date: July 8th, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars
Review:
So, I read this author’s debut novel, Inhuman Acts as well. I thought that book was pretty dark. That book had nothing on this book at all. This book was so dark and intense. I was on the edge of my seat at every turn. I just couldn’t even fathom how something like that could be let out into the world on purpose. I did draw some parallels to the book and certain recent events. I’ll leave it at that.
I have to be honest, the beginning of the book kind of went over my head. Once I was getting absorbed into the world, I did have to go back and read the first part of it. It hit me completely differently the second time around. This book is a medical thriller.
I both want this book and her other book to become audiobooks and movies, but I also don’t. I think I’d be too scared listening to or watching the events that take place in this. I think they would have to keep the gore levels down a bit. Not that the book is very gory. But the subject can head in that direction. It’s still an amazing book. I’m so glad that I read it. I’m glad that I read her other book as well. I will be looking for releases from this author from here forward. Especially if they are as intense as this book.
July 8, 2023
Rating: 4 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Travelling Page Tours and Brooke L French for picking me to participate in The Book Tour for this book this week!! This was only the 2nd Novel ive read by Brooke so i kind of knew what to expect even tho this one didnt grab me like her previous book had.
The Character were interesting and intriguing to read about. I couldnt pick just one character as my favorite since i seemed to enjoy all the characters.
The Setting was okay but i wish it had been more describtive.
Overall an OK Mystery Thriller for me it just didnt seem to grab me as i thought it would!! I will read more by Brooke but i hope i enjoy her next one a little more.
Review:
Thank you to Travelling Page Tours and Brooke L French for picking me to participate in The Book Tour for this book this week!! This was only the 2nd Novel ive read by Brooke so i kind of knew what to expect even tho this one didnt grab me like her previous book had.
The Character were interesting and intriguing to read about. I couldnt pick just one character as my favorite since i seemed to enjoy all the characters.
The Setting was okay but i wish it had been more describtive.
Overall an OK Mystery Thriller for me it just didnt seem to grab me as i thought it would!! I will read more by Brooke but i hope i enjoy her next one a little more.
July 7, 2023
Thanks to Travelling Pages for the advanced copy!
Summer of 2018, Atlanta. Struggling lawyer Tess Oliver couldn’t have predicted a simple piece of paper would irrevocably change her life ─ and the lives of thousands. Her eidetic memory leads her to save Luke Broussard, a pilot that just crashed his plane and broke a vial with a filovirus in the process. Soon after, a hemorrhagic fever outbreak spreads through the city and the only way to stop it is Tess’ memory, but there are people who won ́t stop at anything to get her- and her memory- out of the picture.
With some eerie similarities to the chaotic situation of the pandemic, this medical thriller digs into a bioterrorism situation and the dangers of religious hatred when it comes from people in power. We watch the story unfold from different points of view, starting with the doctor responsible for creating the virus, jumping to Tess, then to Luke, briefly going into the painful experience of an infected woman and featuring the doctors who are working against the clock to save people.
Fast-paced and terrifyingly realistic, this book is a great read for people who enjoy thrillers.
Summer of 2018, Atlanta. Struggling lawyer Tess Oliver couldn’t have predicted a simple piece of paper would irrevocably change her life ─ and the lives of thousands. Her eidetic memory leads her to save Luke Broussard, a pilot that just crashed his plane and broke a vial with a filovirus in the process. Soon after, a hemorrhagic fever outbreak spreads through the city and the only way to stop it is Tess’ memory, but there are people who won ́t stop at anything to get her- and her memory- out of the picture.
With some eerie similarities to the chaotic situation of the pandemic, this medical thriller digs into a bioterrorism situation and the dangers of religious hatred when it comes from people in power. We watch the story unfold from different points of view, starting with the doctor responsible for creating the virus, jumping to Tess, then to Luke, briefly going into the painful experience of an infected woman and featuring the doctors who are working against the clock to save people.
Fast-paced and terrifyingly realistic, this book is a great read for people who enjoy thrillers.
August 30, 2023
This is a fantastic, overwhelming, twisted, can't turn the pages quick enough read! The horrifying virus that seems to come out of nowhere and the way our main characters are just pummeled, nearly destroyed, and still keep going is phenomenal. Unlike many apocalyptic virus stories, this one has an added umph in the reason it's happening that just makes you want to scream. The author knows how to make you feel like you are right there along with the characters and there's nothing you can do to help. The scariest part of this book is that things like this could actually happen and what's more is that you never really know who someone is, until it's too late of course!
January 13, 2024
A solid thriller with a sympathetic and imperfect (which is not a flaw) main heroine. The mystery was tense and the action believable.
March 8, 2023
The Carolina Variant
By Brooke L. French
Unputdownable.
Find a comfortable chair, grab some drinks and snacks, and sit down for a thrill ride you won’t want to end until you’ve read the last sentence of The Carolina Variant by Brooke L. French. Aspiring attorney Tess Oliver was broke, in arrears on her rent, and desperate when she got that phone call from the bank. One of the many cases she’d been pursuing finally paid off as a garnishment of a crooked developer’s account. The account was empty, but there was a mysterious safe deposit box to examine. It seemed to be a dead-end—all it contained was a weird document with rows of numbers. Before she has a chance to examine it properly, there’s a fire in her office and the document goes up in smoke. But Tess has a kind of superpower, an eidetic (photographic) memory, and she’s remembered enough to realize one of the numbers is a phone number. She decides to call it (what could possibly go wrong?), and the adventure begins.
At the same time, a deadly virus has broken out across Atlanta and Tess is pulled into the battle. Based on an actual hemorrhagic fever, the virus in the book is fictional, but frighteningly realistic. If you’re a fan of The Hot Zone, The Andromeda Strain or similar books, you’ll love The Carolina Variant. French’s gripping prose deftly weaves the complex story into an engrossing account of a biological attack that keeps the pages turning. It’s believable as it is terrifying, you’ll want to pull those covers over your head after you read this one.
By Brooke L. French
Unputdownable.
Find a comfortable chair, grab some drinks and snacks, and sit down for a thrill ride you won’t want to end until you’ve read the last sentence of The Carolina Variant by Brooke L. French. Aspiring attorney Tess Oliver was broke, in arrears on her rent, and desperate when she got that phone call from the bank. One of the many cases she’d been pursuing finally paid off as a garnishment of a crooked developer’s account. The account was empty, but there was a mysterious safe deposit box to examine. It seemed to be a dead-end—all it contained was a weird document with rows of numbers. Before she has a chance to examine it properly, there’s a fire in her office and the document goes up in smoke. But Tess has a kind of superpower, an eidetic (photographic) memory, and she’s remembered enough to realize one of the numbers is a phone number. She decides to call it (what could possibly go wrong?), and the adventure begins.
At the same time, a deadly virus has broken out across Atlanta and Tess is pulled into the battle. Based on an actual hemorrhagic fever, the virus in the book is fictional, but frighteningly realistic. If you’re a fan of The Hot Zone, The Andromeda Strain or similar books, you’ll love The Carolina Variant. French’s gripping prose deftly weaves the complex story into an engrossing account of a biological attack that keeps the pages turning. It’s believable as it is terrifying, you’ll want to pull those covers over your head after you read this one.
May 11, 2023
I received an advance copy of this book. Thank you.
This is a great read. This book has a lot of things going for it: It's a medical thriller, there are interesting and likeable characters, and there's a bit of romance. Tess Oliver is a struggling lawyer, determined to help her clients all she can, as her landlord is about to evict her. One final lead takes her to a safety deposit box where she finds a confusing chart that doesn't seem to have anything to do with her case. She doesn't have it long, her office catches fire, and all is lost, or would have been had Tess not have one special trait: eidetic (photographic) memory. One thing she clearly remembers is a phone number, and figuring she has nothing to lose, she gives it a call. When the phone is answered, it's obvious whoever answered it is in trouble. He's not clear and he says his plane went down, his passenger might be dead. Tess gets a description of where he is and phones 911. Tess knows she'll have to go see whoever answered the phone to get more information. There is instant chemistry between Tess and Luke when they meet, or is there?
Suddenly, a hemorrhagic virus has appeared in Atlanta and in spreading quickly, and the city of Atlanta is locked down. People are dying hours after they are exposed, yet some who were in direct contact are not. A medical team quickly is formed and are racing to find a way to contain this.
This is a fast-paced, well researched book with lots of action, and will not disappoint.
This is a great read. This book has a lot of things going for it: It's a medical thriller, there are interesting and likeable characters, and there's a bit of romance. Tess Oliver is a struggling lawyer, determined to help her clients all she can, as her landlord is about to evict her. One final lead takes her to a safety deposit box where she finds a confusing chart that doesn't seem to have anything to do with her case. She doesn't have it long, her office catches fire, and all is lost, or would have been had Tess not have one special trait: eidetic (photographic) memory. One thing she clearly remembers is a phone number, and figuring she has nothing to lose, she gives it a call. When the phone is answered, it's obvious whoever answered it is in trouble. He's not clear and he says his plane went down, his passenger might be dead. Tess gets a description of where he is and phones 911. Tess knows she'll have to go see whoever answered the phone to get more information. There is instant chemistry between Tess and Luke when they meet, or is there?
Suddenly, a hemorrhagic virus has appeared in Atlanta and in spreading quickly, and the city of Atlanta is locked down. People are dying hours after they are exposed, yet some who were in direct contact are not. A medical team quickly is formed and are racing to find a way to contain this.
This is a fast-paced, well researched book with lots of action, and will not disappoint.
June 19, 2023
The Carolina Variant by Brooke L. French is a great novel that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. This gripping story features an intriguing plotline that seamlessly weaves together elements of suspense, mystery, and a touch of romance. From the moment I met Tess, the strong and relatable protagonist, I found myself immediately invested in her journey, eagerly rooting for her every step of the way.
One of the standout aspects of this book is Tess's special ability, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative and left me eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series, in which I hope this concept is explored further.
The interweaving of various characters throughout the novel is well executed. Each character is distinct and well-developed, with their own intriguing motivations and hidden secrets.
I personally appreciate that Brooke L. French delivered a thrilling and suspenseful experience without relying on gratuitous gore or excessive violence. While there is plenty of action to keep readers engaged, French demonstrates a skilled restraint, focusing instead on crafting an intelligent and thought-provoking story.
I highly recommend The Carolina Variant to anyone seeking an intelligently crafted medical thriller that will keep them hooked from beginning to end. I look forward to following Tess's journey in the upcoming books.
One of the standout aspects of this book is Tess's special ability, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative and left me eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series, in which I hope this concept is explored further.
The interweaving of various characters throughout the novel is well executed. Each character is distinct and well-developed, with their own intriguing motivations and hidden secrets.
I personally appreciate that Brooke L. French delivered a thrilling and suspenseful experience without relying on gratuitous gore or excessive violence. While there is plenty of action to keep readers engaged, French demonstrates a skilled restraint, focusing instead on crafting an intelligent and thought-provoking story.
I highly recommend The Carolina Variant to anyone seeking an intelligently crafted medical thriller that will keep them hooked from beginning to end. I look forward to following Tess's journey in the upcoming books.
July 6, 2023
They say the pandemic is over, but Brooke L. French reignites our worst fears with a horrifying premise: what if an engineered filovirus crash-landed in the U.S.?
We begin with the highly empathetic protagonist Tess. She dotes on her Gran and is a loving caretaker to an adorable dog named Badger. She’s also a financially strapped lawyer struggling to balance championing low-income clients and paying the bills.
What should be a routine case takes a dangerous turn when she stumbles upon a document that exposes those responsible for the filovirus, and the formula for a cure. For any neuro-typical person, a few seconds’ review would be of no consequence. But Tess has an eidetic memory. If she concentrates hard enough, she can remember every word. Last time she did that, though, she nearly died. Nor is that Tess’s only threat. An assassin hired to clean up any loose ends is there to make sure Tess doesn’t get the chance to try.
The Carolina Variant reads like an updated Richard Preston’s classic The Hot Zone with an intriguing romance subplot. The narration moves at a quick pace, fleshing out a variety of compelling heroes and villains, and is well-researched. Highly recommend!
We begin with the highly empathetic protagonist Tess. She dotes on her Gran and is a loving caretaker to an adorable dog named Badger. She’s also a financially strapped lawyer struggling to balance championing low-income clients and paying the bills.
What should be a routine case takes a dangerous turn when she stumbles upon a document that exposes those responsible for the filovirus, and the formula for a cure. For any neuro-typical person, a few seconds’ review would be of no consequence. But Tess has an eidetic memory. If she concentrates hard enough, she can remember every word. Last time she did that, though, she nearly died. Nor is that Tess’s only threat. An assassin hired to clean up any loose ends is there to make sure Tess doesn’t get the chance to try.
The Carolina Variant reads like an updated Richard Preston’s classic The Hot Zone with an intriguing romance subplot. The narration moves at a quick pace, fleshing out a variety of compelling heroes and villains, and is well-researched. Highly recommend!
July 16, 2023
I received a physical copy of The Carolina Variant in exchange for an honest review and as part of a blog tour.
Tess Oliver have an eidetic memory.
As the lawyer for the Ashby’s, she is left to hunt down the developer that owes them money. Her investigation leads to a safe deposit box that only holds a folded piece of paper. She unfolds the paper, and it is a large piece of paper she cannot decipher.
Luke Broussard is a pilot. A man chartered a flight under an assumed name and refuses to let go of his bag. There is an issue with the plane mid-flight causing it to crash. The passenger does not survive, and the content of the bag ends up leaking on Luke. It leads to a virus outbreak once he is brought to the hospital.
Tess using her memory is able to see the document and realized there is a phone number in the corner. She dials the number to the dead passenger and Luke answers. He was able to tell Tess enough information to get help.
The rest of the book is about discovering, tracking, and fighting the Marburg Hemphill virus. Tess through events determines the document she found is related to the virus. She does everything she can to use her memory to help the CDC create a vaccine.
This mystery thriller was enjoyable and full of suspense; however, I do not see myself picking it up again. This book is not for everyone, but many will enjoy the writing and story line.
Tess Oliver have an eidetic memory.
As the lawyer for the Ashby’s, she is left to hunt down the developer that owes them money. Her investigation leads to a safe deposit box that only holds a folded piece of paper. She unfolds the paper, and it is a large piece of paper she cannot decipher.
Luke Broussard is a pilot. A man chartered a flight under an assumed name and refuses to let go of his bag. There is an issue with the plane mid-flight causing it to crash. The passenger does not survive, and the content of the bag ends up leaking on Luke. It leads to a virus outbreak once he is brought to the hospital.
Tess using her memory is able to see the document and realized there is a phone number in the corner. She dials the number to the dead passenger and Luke answers. He was able to tell Tess enough information to get help.
The rest of the book is about discovering, tracking, and fighting the Marburg Hemphill virus. Tess through events determines the document she found is related to the virus. She does everything she can to use her memory to help the CDC create a vaccine.
This mystery thriller was enjoyable and full of suspense; however, I do not see myself picking it up again. This book is not for everyone, but many will enjoy the writing and story line.
April 30, 2023
There are enough true possibilities in "The Carolina Variant" to make it frightening. A deadly virus has been created and accidently let loose in Atlanta. Tess Oliver is a struggling attorney who inadvertently gets caught in the bioterrorists' web. With her eidetic memory, she can memorize a vital document that she had seen that contains DNA codes surrounding the deadly virus, as well as telephone numbers. When she calls one of the numbers on the document, she reaches Luke Broussard, the pilot in a crash that just happened and that killed his passenger, cracking a vial with the virus. Luke is taken to Grady Hospital and the virus goes with him, infecting several people who die within two days of massive hemorrhage.
The bioterrorists come after Tess because they believe she has the document with all the virus information, and they will stop at nothing to get it and to remove Tess from the equation.
This is a fast-paced book that engages the reader from the very first chapter. Given that this is listed as Book 1 of A Tess Oliver thriller, I can't wait to read the second book.
The bioterrorists come after Tess because they believe she has the document with all the virus information, and they will stop at nothing to get it and to remove Tess from the equation.
This is a fast-paced book that engages the reader from the very first chapter. Given that this is listed as Book 1 of A Tess Oliver thriller, I can't wait to read the second book.
June 12, 2023
I received a copy of The Carolina Variant by Brooke L. French in a LibraryThing Early Reviewers giveaway. This is a very good book along the lines of the scientific thrillers by Robin Cook and Michael Crichton. If you are into scientific thrillers, I recommend you try this book.
The story is set in Atlanta, GA and a Marburg outbreak. The introduction is a description of the initial underground testing of the Marburg virus. You are then introduced to a lawyer who is trying to collect money owed to an elderly couple and comes across a large document in a safe deposit box during seizure of assets related to a real estate fraud scheme the scientist is involved in. The scientist is then killed in a small plane crash where one of the vials of the Marburg virus is broken. This is the start of the outbreak. The CDC and military get involved with understanding the outbreak of the virus and the control of the spread. The story is fairly fast paced and has plenty of conflicts/relationships between the various parties to the outbreak and subsequent control. I don’t want to tell more, because I would be spoiling several of the twists and turns in the plot.
The story is set in Atlanta, GA and a Marburg outbreak. The introduction is a description of the initial underground testing of the Marburg virus. You are then introduced to a lawyer who is trying to collect money owed to an elderly couple and comes across a large document in a safe deposit box during seizure of assets related to a real estate fraud scheme the scientist is involved in. The scientist is then killed in a small plane crash where one of the vials of the Marburg virus is broken. This is the start of the outbreak. The CDC and military get involved with understanding the outbreak of the virus and the control of the spread. The story is fairly fast paced and has plenty of conflicts/relationships between the various parties to the outbreak and subsequent control. I don’t want to tell more, because I would be spoiling several of the twists and turns in the plot.
June 15, 2023
This second book, following 'InHuman Acts', her debut novel, establishes French in the medical thriller category well.
A worthy protagonist - Tess Oliver - is highly flawed. An independent streak yields a struggling law practice and messy lifestyle, yet she has the super skill of a photographic memory. She finds a clue, loses said clue, but perfect recall allows her to connect by phone with the dashing Luke just as his plane is in trouble. It's an exciting launch into this escapade.
I hate spoilers in reviews, but let's say we have some biohazard on the loose and an interest in determining the origin -is it attack or natural mutation? Tess' brain and Luke's bravado combine to defeat the threat. The consequences of authorities and bad decisions leave this duo with a great task and a city in peril. Their nemesis proves a to be a powerful opponent with sinister motives. Time is of the essence.
The love interest is a nice counter balance to the adventure. The characters are well flushed out and enticing. All in all, The Carolina Variant makes for a great read. The book couldn't be more timely.
A worthy protagonist - Tess Oliver - is highly flawed. An independent streak yields a struggling law practice and messy lifestyle, yet she has the super skill of a photographic memory. She finds a clue, loses said clue, but perfect recall allows her to connect by phone with the dashing Luke just as his plane is in trouble. It's an exciting launch into this escapade.
I hate spoilers in reviews, but let's say we have some biohazard on the loose and an interest in determining the origin -is it attack or natural mutation? Tess' brain and Luke's bravado combine to defeat the threat. The consequences of authorities and bad decisions leave this duo with a great task and a city in peril. Their nemesis proves a to be a powerful opponent with sinister motives. Time is of the essence.
The love interest is a nice counter balance to the adventure. The characters are well flushed out and enticing. All in all, The Carolina Variant makes for a great read. The book couldn't be more timely.
September 27, 2023
A wholly engrossing thriller! I read The Carolina Variant in a single sitting. Quick-paced and suspenseful, I couldn't put the book down, even though French doesn’t make it easy for her characters (or her reader!) to confront the dark and terrifying tragedy of a deadly pandemic. I found myself caring deeply about what happened to Tess Oliver, an engaging character who combines vulnerability and strength in her desire to do right by other people despite her own limitations and very real challenges. Tess’s connections with others (Gail, her grandparents, Luke) humanize her and motivate her actions while making them believable. I found myself rooting for her against all odds and unwilling to stop reading until she succeeded. The multiple storylines are easy to navigate and add a level of depth and urgency to each scene, moving the reader through the narrative at lightning speed without sacrificing either character development or a sense of place. Well-written and full of detail, French’s writing reads like a movie—everything was so clear in my mind. And as with most good movies, I’m desperately hoping there’s a sequel.
March 31, 2023
*I received this novel from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
A sinister plot to wipe out a huge population of people, introduces Tess Oliver to Luke Broussard. She calls a mobile number she saw on a mysterious list before it burned along with her office. Only Luke isn’t the client she’s seeking—he’s the ill fated pilot who’s barely able to speak as he lays in the rubble of his crashed plane.
The Carolina Variant is a fast paced medical thriller with a cast of believable characters whose careers and lives are on the line if they can’t stop the fatal virus.
Brooke L. French blends scientific research with realistic imagination for a terrifying what-if scenario. I enjoyed the well-developed plot while cringing with the characters at the horrific conditions experienced by those infected by this hemorrhagic virus.
It would be a PG-13/R in movie ratings.
I recommend this book.
A sinister plot to wipe out a huge population of people, introduces Tess Oliver to Luke Broussard. She calls a mobile number she saw on a mysterious list before it burned along with her office. Only Luke isn’t the client she’s seeking—he’s the ill fated pilot who’s barely able to speak as he lays in the rubble of his crashed plane.
The Carolina Variant is a fast paced medical thriller with a cast of believable characters whose careers and lives are on the line if they can’t stop the fatal virus.
Brooke L. French blends scientific research with realistic imagination for a terrifying what-if scenario. I enjoyed the well-developed plot while cringing with the characters at the horrific conditions experienced by those infected by this hemorrhagic virus.
It would be a PG-13/R in movie ratings.
I recommend this book.
November 5, 2023
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 4 stars from me.
I enjoyed this book. It definitely kept me on my toes and turning the pages so fast, just to get to the bottom of this mysterious illness.
I will say, I could see how this book may be a little difficult to follow along with the medical terminology.
As a nurse that was on the frontlines and worked tirelessly throughout the Covid Pandemic, this book was real and far too relatable with the overwhelming sense of doing all you can for a patient in unprecedented circumstances and still watching the patients demise in front of your eyes. The emotion in this book was 100% relatable to me.
* I received this book in the mail in July from Brooke, I still have no idea how it was sent to me.
I intended to read it immediately and then disaster struck and I lost my baby brother on July 10th, and this book just kind of got pushed into a pile on my bookshelf. I’m glad I picked it back up and read it. thank you, Brooke for this wonderful and intriguing book. *
I enjoyed this book. It definitely kept me on my toes and turning the pages so fast, just to get to the bottom of this mysterious illness.
I will say, I could see how this book may be a little difficult to follow along with the medical terminology.
As a nurse that was on the frontlines and worked tirelessly throughout the Covid Pandemic, this book was real and far too relatable with the overwhelming sense of doing all you can for a patient in unprecedented circumstances and still watching the patients demise in front of your eyes. The emotion in this book was 100% relatable to me.
* I received this book in the mail in July from Brooke, I still have no idea how it was sent to me.
I intended to read it immediately and then disaster struck and I lost my baby brother on July 10th, and this book just kind of got pushed into a pile on my bookshelf. I’m glad I picked it back up and read it. thank you, Brooke for this wonderful and intriguing book. *
May 19, 2023
The Carolina Variant by Brooke L. French is a gripping story that effortlessly weaves together elements of suspense and adventure. From the very first page, readers are transported on an exciting journey, leaving them on the edge of their seats and hungry for more.
French's vivid storytelling and richly imagined world-building breathe life into the narrative, immersing readers in a tapestry of meticulous attention to detail, creating a sense of believability that makes the impossible seem real, heightening the sense of suspense with every turn of the page.
At the heart of The Carolina Variant are the unforgettable characters who come alive with depth, complexity, and collaboration. The protagonist, Tess, is well-developed and captivating from the start. The Carolina Variant is a must-read for suspense fans. Highly recommend.
French's vivid storytelling and richly imagined world-building breathe life into the narrative, immersing readers in a tapestry of meticulous attention to detail, creating a sense of believability that makes the impossible seem real, heightening the sense of suspense with every turn of the page.
At the heart of The Carolina Variant are the unforgettable characters who come alive with depth, complexity, and collaboration. The protagonist, Tess, is well-developed and captivating from the start. The Carolina Variant is a must-read for suspense fans. Highly recommend.
July 8, 2023
This is THE book of the Summer! 😍
I could not put this book down! When I tell you that from the PROLOGUE I was hooked, I was hooked!! This was a perfect mix of mystery, suspense, heartbreak, and humor. I loved Tess and Luke! One of the awesome things that Brooke does with her characters is develop them so well! You feel like you know them like an old friend. 💕
This is the second book I’ve read by Brooke and I was so impressed with everything—the storyline, the pacing, the character and world development, the tone, etc. This isn’t just a well thought out plot, it’s also an overall well-rounded book! I really can’t adequately express my overall enjoyment of reading this book! These are the types of stories that consume my every waking moment until I finish reading them!
Absolutely a 5 ⭐️ read for me, and I am anxiously awaiting future stories! I am a fan for life! 💗
Thank you to the author and Travelling Pages Tours for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I could not put this book down! When I tell you that from the PROLOGUE I was hooked, I was hooked!! This was a perfect mix of mystery, suspense, heartbreak, and humor. I loved Tess and Luke! One of the awesome things that Brooke does with her characters is develop them so well! You feel like you know them like an old friend. 💕
This is the second book I’ve read by Brooke and I was so impressed with everything—the storyline, the pacing, the character and world development, the tone, etc. This isn’t just a well thought out plot, it’s also an overall well-rounded book! I really can’t adequately express my overall enjoyment of reading this book! These are the types of stories that consume my every waking moment until I finish reading them!
Absolutely a 5 ⭐️ read for me, and I am anxiously awaiting future stories! I am a fan for life! 💗
Thank you to the author and Travelling Pages Tours for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
July 9, 2023
What happens when a plane crashes with a mysterious vial in it? What happened when that vial breaks open? Tess and Luke are about to find out. Tess Oliver is thankful for her ability to retrieve her memory when her office and everything in it goes up in a mysterious fire. The lead to her most recent client is connected to Luke Broussard, the pilot. They’re racing against time to find out what this mysterious vial is and why everyone is getting sick from it before it affects EVERYONE.
This book made me flashback to the Covid pandemic. I felt like I could feel exactly how Tess and Luke felt. This is the second book I’ve freak by Brooke French. The one thing I love about Brooke French’s books are how she develops things. She makes you imagine exactly how things are going, like a movie. Thank you @brookefrench and @travelling-pages-tour for my ARC to review!
This book made me flashback to the Covid pandemic. I felt like I could feel exactly how Tess and Luke felt. This is the second book I’ve freak by Brooke French. The one thing I love about Brooke French’s books are how she develops things. She makes you imagine exactly how things are going, like a movie. Thank you @brookefrench and @travelling-pages-tour for my ARC to review!
April 17, 2023
In a terrifying world of a plague with the most dreadful symptoms since the bubonic, People are dying so fast they're filling the morgues and streets. Tess can help if she can remember the detailed information her brain retains, but remembering could kill her.
Ms. French has again written an edge-of-your-seat story about extraordinary characters faced with a terrifying situation. Amid this chaos, she accidentally saves the life of Luke Broussard, who is the answer to a maiden's prayer, until he opens his mouth. Nothing is easy for either of them. Ms. French has created a strong female character for whom Luke almost makes an equal partner. The book is a serious drama about a worst-case scenario reminiscent of our COVID lockdown.
Ms. French has again written an edge-of-your-seat story about extraordinary characters faced with a terrifying situation. Amid this chaos, she accidentally saves the life of Luke Broussard, who is the answer to a maiden's prayer, until he opens his mouth. Nothing is easy for either of them. Ms. French has created a strong female character for whom Luke almost makes an equal partner. The book is a serious drama about a worst-case scenario reminiscent of our COVID lockdown.
May 15, 2023
I won this as a give away from Libarything. The author was very nice and had
signed the book..
It was an amazing book. Even though this is ficiton, it's close to what is happening
now in the world. The more you read the scary it gets to that this could happen
to us.
The author has writen an amazing story that draws you in and keeps you on the
edge of your seat.
The character are very likeable and could be anyone of us, like yourself or neigbor
fighting for our life and others.
The story is about what can happen when a plagu is set loose on man kind. This is
a great thriller and hard to put down since you have to find what will happen next
Would highly recommed this book to others that love a mystery/thriller.
signed the book..
It was an amazing book. Even though this is ficiton, it's close to what is happening
now in the world. The more you read the scary it gets to that this could happen
to us.
The author has writen an amazing story that draws you in and keeps you on the
edge of your seat.
The character are very likeable and could be anyone of us, like yourself or neigbor
fighting for our life and others.
The story is about what can happen when a plagu is set loose on man kind. This is
a great thriller and hard to put down since you have to find what will happen next
Would highly recommed this book to others that love a mystery/thriller.
July 19, 2023
The Carolina Variant
by Brooke L. French
4 stars
I received an advance copy of this book thank you so much,
This book is a medical thriller and it hits all the marks, such a good intense read.
This story follows the steps of an outbreak, the beginning, the spread, and how it affects the neighborhoods surrounding areas. Everything that goes on with and around it. The characters are very believable except for the kidnapping and how she handled it.
The characters are all well thought out and have a lot of badass in them. They race against the clock to get this virus under control.
It was a fast read for me but I have had my lifetime share of medical viruses, but after reading it explains a lot for certain things. If you like medical thrillers thing one is for you.
by Brooke L. French
4 stars
I received an advance copy of this book thank you so much,
This book is a medical thriller and it hits all the marks, such a good intense read.
This story follows the steps of an outbreak, the beginning, the spread, and how it affects the neighborhoods surrounding areas. Everything that goes on with and around it. The characters are very believable except for the kidnapping and how she handled it.
The characters are all well thought out and have a lot of badass in them. They race against the clock to get this virus under control.
It was a fast read for me but I have had my lifetime share of medical viruses, but after reading it explains a lot for certain things. If you like medical thrillers thing one is for you.
June 4, 2023
Tess's ability to relive memories is intriguing. It definitely does come in handy for solving cases. I did form a connection with Tess. The plot of this story is scary; especially after the pandemic. Because it is not that far off to imagine what was happening in this story could be "real".
When it came to Tess and Luke as a couple, I was not personally feeling it. I felt like the story did not really need a romantic angle. In addition, that I did not connection with Luke like I did Tess. The pacing of this story was another thing as I found the intensity went in waves. I can't always remember what I read. Overall, though, I did like this book and would give this author another try.
When it came to Tess and Luke as a couple, I was not personally feeling it. I felt like the story did not really need a romantic angle. In addition, that I did not connection with Luke like I did Tess. The pacing of this story was another thing as I found the intensity went in waves. I can't always remember what I read. Overall, though, I did like this book and would give this author another try.
March 10, 2023
The Carolina Variant, by Brooke L. French, is one of those books that, while fiction, is so close to reality that it becomes more and more terrifying as you read. And read, you will. Once you start, you’re completely drawn into this gripping story about a possible bioterrorism event, all the while hoping that such a thing never occurs in our world. Filled with compelling characters fighting not only for their lives, but humanity itself, you won’t be able to put it down.
Jeffrey Jay Levin, author of Watching, Volume 1, The Garden Museum Heist
Jeffrey Jay Levin, author of Watching, Volume 1, The Garden Museum Heist
July 8, 2023
Tess, our main character, is a down on her luck lawyer for low income clients. She’s broke but is too caring and kind to change. Then she finds a document exposing those responsible for a deadly virus – it’s at this point she becomes the loose end – and an assassin has been hired to clean up the mess.
This is a medical thriller about a genetically engineered virus that’s wreaking havoc on Atlanta. A little too close to home but none the less a well told story weaving both horrific consequences and a believable plot. Hats off for turning this topic on its ear.
This is a medical thriller about a genetically engineered virus that’s wreaking havoc on Atlanta. A little too close to home but none the less a well told story weaving both horrific consequences and a believable plot. Hats off for turning this topic on its ear.
August 13, 2023
Arriving on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, THE CAROLINA VARIANT gave me a serious case of the chills that were difficult to shake off. Atlanta is under siege by a horrific and deadly virus, and the key to survival is locked within the memory of Tess Oliver, a struggling young attorney whose fledgling law practice is on the verge of bankruptcy. The story is a hair-raising blend of bioterrorism, political intrigue, and good old-fashioned amateur detective work, plus a spark of romance to counterbalance the gravity of the plot. A tense and eerily realistic page-turner.
September 1, 2023
Tess is a struggling attorney with an eidetic memory who finds herself on the wrong side of a battle she wanted nothing to do with. At the same time, a rare virus has struck Atlanta and is spreading around the country killing people with no rhyme or reason. This story kicked off with a bang and then kept rolling a fairly good pace but the ending just wrapped up so quickly it was a little bit of a whirlwind. This is the author's second book and I have enjoyed them both. I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next.
May 17, 2023
A medical thriller that will keep you up at night. I couldn't put this book down. This action-packed plot of a genetically engineered virus set loose on mankind will stand your hair on end. I loved the characters and the romance weaved in. French's writing is fantastic! You're going to need to buckle up and hold on for this one. It's frighteningly believable, especially in light of our recent pandemic. I highly recommend this novel. You will not be disappointed! It's so good!
August 18, 2023
Evil Unleashed
A lethal virus is unleashed in Georgia. Only a down on her luck lawyer with a photographic memory may be able to piece together the
deadly plot where innocents are only collateral damage.
Fast paced this was a good read. With the pandemic experience much rings true. No real surprises, the government and pharmaceutical companies take center stage.Does not hit you over the head with its wokeness. Worth a read.
A lethal virus is unleashed in Georgia. Only a down on her luck lawyer with a photographic memory may be able to piece together the
deadly plot where innocents are only collateral damage.
Fast paced this was a good read. With the pandemic experience much rings true. No real surprises, the government and pharmaceutical companies take center stage.Does not hit you over the head with its wokeness. Worth a read.
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