What do you think?
Rate this book
Superhighway #1
Superhighway
Alex Fine is a gifted eighteen-year-old with an extraordinary ability to transport himself through the optical passageways of the Internet.
While inside the digital web, Alex is capable of downloading databases, manipulating archived data, and traveling to any destination in the world. Alex discovers his powers just as he is ready to enroll in his freshman year at a prestigious West Coast university, causing an unexpected detour in his plans. In a short period of time, Alex Fine becomes one of the richest people in the world, with virtually limitless power.
In a hastily arranged scheme, Alex transforms into a digital Robin Hood, as he steals money from a criminal oligarch to fulfill his philanthropic goals. It is the story of a young man who wants to use his powers for good, but makes mistakes en route to discovering the truth behind his supernatural abilities.
While inside the digital web, Alex is capable of downloading databases, manipulating archived data, and traveling to any destination in the world. Alex discovers his powers just as he is ready to enroll in his freshman year at a prestigious West Coast university, causing an unexpected detour in his plans. In a short period of time, Alex Fine becomes one of the richest people in the world, with virtually limitless power.
In a hastily arranged scheme, Alex transforms into a digital Robin Hood, as he steals money from a criminal oligarch to fulfill his philanthropic goals. It is the story of a young man who wants to use his powers for good, but makes mistakes en route to discovering the truth behind his supernatural abilities.
254 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2015
60 people are currently reading
1220 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
May 14, 2021
18 year old Alex Fine has found himself with a novel super power, one which I don’t think has been found before. He can travel through the internet to every computer around the world.
Now this might not sound that interesting, nor that super, but when you realise everything that Alex can have access to, your bank details, military weapons codes, flight plans, just about anything that you store your data on, you will see just how ‘super’ he can become.
However Alex decides to use his new-found power for good. He has become a modern-day ‘Robin Hood’, as he removes money from criminals’ accounts to help those in need.
Alex is a lovely young man. He is fiercely loyal and loving, which I put down to his early life, in which he was brought up in an orphanage after his parents tragically died.
His life changes dramatically when he discovers he can travel to exotic places, and become very, very rich, all via the power of the World Wide Web, though I wasn’t too keen on the ‘new’ Alex.
The book is uniquely different to anything I have ever read before, and completely relevant to the modern time that we live in, where billions of people have access to the internet all over the world.
The idea that someone could travel via the optical passageway will have young adults hooked, and most probably wishing that they could do the same thing.
An ultra-slick novel, that if you love sci-fi’s, this is the perfect book to get your mind whirling.
Now this might not sound that interesting, nor that super, but when you realise everything that Alex can have access to, your bank details, military weapons codes, flight plans, just about anything that you store your data on, you will see just how ‘super’ he can become.
However Alex decides to use his new-found power for good. He has become a modern-day ‘Robin Hood’, as he removes money from criminals’ accounts to help those in need.
Alex is a lovely young man. He is fiercely loyal and loving, which I put down to his early life, in which he was brought up in an orphanage after his parents tragically died.
His life changes dramatically when he discovers he can travel to exotic places, and become very, very rich, all via the power of the World Wide Web, though I wasn’t too keen on the ‘new’ Alex.
The book is uniquely different to anything I have ever read before, and completely relevant to the modern time that we live in, where billions of people have access to the internet all over the world.
The idea that someone could travel via the optical passageway will have young adults hooked, and most probably wishing that they could do the same thing.
An ultra-slick novel, that if you love sci-fi’s, this is the perfect book to get your mind whirling.
April 27, 2016
Get ready for some FRESH reading! What would a modern day Robin Hood be like? Meet Alex Fine, a teen who hasn’t had an easy life, spending most of it in an orphanage, just another child lost in “the system.” Then it happened, the unbelievable, the incredible and a new Alex was born. In the age of digital communication, Alex accidentally discovers he can transport through the passageways of the internet and that his mind can become his personal data information file on anything or anyone he wants. It’s through trial and error, and the harsh realities of the danger lurking all around that Alex finds his mission, his purpose in life. With the zeal of youth and a heart of gold, this brash young man will accomplish more through his digital travels than many will do in a lifetime, including taking from the dishonest rich and giving to those in need.
This is the beginning of his story, the changes he undergoes, the lives he touches and the past he never knew. Welcome to the amazing imagination of Alex Fayman and Superhighway!
Alex Fayman has given us a rapid-fire tale of one teen who discovers an amazing ability and tries to use it as wisely as someone his age could do. Alex feels alive, his thoughts, his emotions, the mistakes and triumphs just scream fabulous reading, fabulous hero! Mr. Fayman allows us to let go, to marvel at the possibilities of the web, if only… In a world filled with talk of artificial Intelligence, we are given human intelligence, the pluck of youth and an amazing read!
I received this copy from Alex Fayman in exchange for my honest review. This is one of those Hidden Gems that deserves to be read!
Series: Superhighway - Book 1
Publisher: Alex Fayman (August 18, 2015)
Publication Date: August 18, 2015
ISBN: 0692558071
Genre: Scifi
Print Length: 255 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
This is the beginning of his story, the changes he undergoes, the lives he touches and the past he never knew. Welcome to the amazing imagination of Alex Fayman and Superhighway!
Alex Fayman has given us a rapid-fire tale of one teen who discovers an amazing ability and tries to use it as wisely as someone his age could do. Alex feels alive, his thoughts, his emotions, the mistakes and triumphs just scream fabulous reading, fabulous hero! Mr. Fayman allows us to let go, to marvel at the possibilities of the web, if only… In a world filled with talk of artificial Intelligence, we are given human intelligence, the pluck of youth and an amazing read!
I received this copy from Alex Fayman in exchange for my honest review. This is one of those Hidden Gems that deserves to be read!
Series: Superhighway - Book 1
Publisher: Alex Fayman (August 18, 2015)
Publication Date: August 18, 2015
ISBN: 0692558071
Genre: Scifi
Print Length: 255 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 19, 2019
“The way I perceived the world was more from my emotional state than the environment itself.”
Interesting concept: Trekkian teleportation through wires (“electroportation”) due to genetic aberration/manipulation. Entire body including his clothes and whatever he’s holding. Execution was deficient, but shows promise.
Written for young adult readers, it is especially unfit for that audience. The hero is an immoral, antisocial misanthrope who lies, cheats, steals, even kills with abandon. He uses drugs and alcohol simultaneously. He’s not amoral; he knows he’s doing wrong; he just keeps doing it.
The hero becomes a twisted Robin Hood, stealing from gangsters and banks to fund charities. He or his friends spout various sermons on various politically-correct topics, even as he pillages and plunders--even admitting that innocent lives are ruined by his actions. Simultaneously drinks alcohol while smoking marijuana: “I feel the alcohol loosening me up.” (That’s your higher brain functions shutting down.) Treats women as disposable toys.
The writing is stilted. Apparently, English is not the author’s primary language. Dialogue: “I am from Los Angeles.” "I am also from Los Angeles.” Really? Sounds like robots, not LA teens. Or, “Henry, listen to me, I’m your brother.” “…, Henry.” “Listen, George …” Or “trying to protect my credo.”
Technical issue: Doesn’t the author realize that most businesses and government agencies back up their files in physically off-line storage? He’s always hungry, presumably because of the energy used in dematerializing and rematerializing, but he drinks Diet Cokes. The electroportation process involves water and calcium. He drinks lots of water, but he seldom eats calcium-rich foods. You’d think he’d pop Tums like candy.
Quibbles: He steals a fancy watch from a gangster in Amsterdam, then wears it in public. Transfers not millions, but billions of dollars and thinks he covers it up by erasing the history. He buys an island from a Russian oligarch/gangster whom he has just bankrupted and retains the entire staff. He knowingly establishes his philanthropic trust with the law firm of the father of the girl he’s wooing and, eventually, betraying.
Nice cover art.
“I didn’t understand that protecting my offspring was my number one parental priority.”
Has great potential--the bones of a great story exist--it doesn't deliver.
Interesting concept: Trekkian teleportation through wires (“electroportation”) due to genetic aberration/manipulation. Entire body including his clothes and whatever he’s holding. Execution was deficient, but shows promise.
Written for young adult readers, it is especially unfit for that audience. The hero is an immoral, antisocial misanthrope who lies, cheats, steals, even kills with abandon. He uses drugs and alcohol simultaneously. He’s not amoral; he knows he’s doing wrong; he just keeps doing it.
The hero becomes a twisted Robin Hood, stealing from gangsters and banks to fund charities. He or his friends spout various sermons on various politically-correct topics, even as he pillages and plunders--even admitting that innocent lives are ruined by his actions. Simultaneously drinks alcohol while smoking marijuana: “I feel the alcohol loosening me up.” (That’s your higher brain functions shutting down.) Treats women as disposable toys.
The writing is stilted. Apparently, English is not the author’s primary language. Dialogue: “I am from Los Angeles.” "I am also from Los Angeles.” Really? Sounds like robots, not LA teens. Or, “Henry, listen to me, I’m your brother.” “…, Henry.” “Listen, George …” Or “trying to protect my credo.”
Technical issue: Doesn’t the author realize that most businesses and government agencies back up their files in physically off-line storage? He’s always hungry, presumably because of the energy used in dematerializing and rematerializing, but he drinks Diet Cokes. The electroportation process involves water and calcium. He drinks lots of water, but he seldom eats calcium-rich foods. You’d think he’d pop Tums like candy.
Quibbles: He steals a fancy watch from a gangster in Amsterdam, then wears it in public. Transfers not millions, but billions of dollars and thinks he covers it up by erasing the history. He buys an island from a Russian oligarch/gangster whom he has just bankrupted and retains the entire staff. He knowingly establishes his philanthropic trust with the law firm of the father of the girl he’s wooing and, eventually, betraying.
Nice cover art.
“I didn’t understand that protecting my offspring was my number one parental priority.”
Has great potential--the bones of a great story exist--it doesn't deliver.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2018
The concept of Superhighway was new and fresh, but the execution was poor. The dialogue was stiff throughout the entire novel, making it impossible to really enjoy, and chunks of exposition threatened to put me to sleep. The extra star is for the slightly creative cliffhanger ending, which wasn't so bad in comparison with the rest of the book. I wouldn't recommend spending your time reading this, and I won't be investing any time in the sequel.
December 6, 2015
Gripping, Unique, Heartfelt & Riveting! A Fascinating Read! I Loved It!
March 2, 2016
4.0 of 5 stars – Creative Premise that Virtually Speeds You Along.
This YA cyber-thriller had a fun premise and good execution that kept me engaged throughout.
In my day, every kid’s dream was to be able to fly into space or miniaturize oneself. I imagine nowadays it’s to be able to travel through the internet, like (from in my day) in Tron. Alex Fayman took that dream and upped it a few notches, and he did it in a way, with the MC’s first person POV, that brought me along for the trip, like I was there traveling the network superhighway right with him.
Fayman’s fast-paced writing style kept the plot moving. It was all creative and seemed believable to me. I wasn’t sure about the techno part, but it seemed plausible enough to this non-techie. I did think there were some things that were a bit too convenient without explanation, but I stayed with it. There were some good action scenes that added nicely to the tension, and I appreciated the different international locales. I even found the tie in to the 2008 financial crisis to be amusing. And I enjoyed how he wove realistic teenager aspirations and moral dilemmas in with the cyber drama.
The MC was a likable young guy, all the more appealing because of his flaws as well as his youthful vigilante/robin hood mindset. The character development was fairly well done, but it was pretty much limited to the MC. And even with that I saw some inconsistencies in the character – was he a naïve, moderately-educated YA or a sophisticated financier fluent in multiple languages. For a poor 18yo, he was awfully savvy about financial terms, tools and transactions, and generally there were times, only a few, he seemed older … except for the way he thought about girls – not always admirable, but it sounded true to his age.
A main hiccup for me was the ending, which was rather like a Saturday matinee cliff hanger. Reminded me of the old Batman series that ended practically in mid-“POW”, a trick to pull you in to watch next week. I prefer even the first in a series to have a little more resolution to its story arc. But despite that, there was definitely enough here for me to tune in for the next episode.
This YA cyber-thriller had a fun premise and good execution that kept me engaged throughout.
In my day, every kid’s dream was to be able to fly into space or miniaturize oneself. I imagine nowadays it’s to be able to travel through the internet, like (from in my day) in Tron. Alex Fayman took that dream and upped it a few notches, and he did it in a way, with the MC’s first person POV, that brought me along for the trip, like I was there traveling the network superhighway right with him.
Fayman’s fast-paced writing style kept the plot moving. It was all creative and seemed believable to me. I wasn’t sure about the techno part, but it seemed plausible enough to this non-techie. I did think there were some things that were a bit too convenient without explanation, but I stayed with it. There were some good action scenes that added nicely to the tension, and I appreciated the different international locales. I even found the tie in to the 2008 financial crisis to be amusing. And I enjoyed how he wove realistic teenager aspirations and moral dilemmas in with the cyber drama.
The MC was a likable young guy, all the more appealing because of his flaws as well as his youthful vigilante/robin hood mindset. The character development was fairly well done, but it was pretty much limited to the MC. And even with that I saw some inconsistencies in the character – was he a naïve, moderately-educated YA or a sophisticated financier fluent in multiple languages. For a poor 18yo, he was awfully savvy about financial terms, tools and transactions, and generally there were times, only a few, he seemed older … except for the way he thought about girls – not always admirable, but it sounded true to his age.
A main hiccup for me was the ending, which was rather like a Saturday matinee cliff hanger. Reminded me of the old Batman series that ended practically in mid-“POW”, a trick to pull you in to watch next week. I prefer even the first in a series to have a little more resolution to its story arc. But despite that, there was definitely enough here for me to tune in for the next episode.
November 11, 2015
Superhighway is the thing we computer geeks/hackers call a dream come true. What a wild ride, zipping through the internet with Alex Fine.
When we meet Alex he is about to leave the orphanage he has lived in since the day the good Ms. Jenkins had received him as a newborn. Not knowing his parents, even his real name, if he has one.
Alex is a handsome and brilliant teenager ready to head off to college when things take a turn he could have never seen coming. The orphanage gets a computer lab. Late one night working alone in the lab, looking at hot cars and beaches, like a normal teenage boy, his monitor goes blank. Checking the power cord he finds it plugged in, so he unplugs the internet cable, intending to plug it back in, but all of a sudden he is actually in the internet. Zipping at amazing speeds, he tries to figure out what happened to him. He sees a red light, heads toward it and Poof he is on a beach looking at the same view he was last looking at on the computer back at the orphanage. And not in L.A. but Hawaii.
As we watch Alex try to come to terms with what is happening to him, we also watch him struggle with his conscience. With all of the information on the internet, he can instantly change peoples lives and fortunes. What would you do with access to the FBI,CIA and every bank in the world? I personally like what Alex did.
The age old question of just because you can do something, should you? But this is Science Fiction, so Alex and the rest of us must suspend reality and just go with the story.
Does he screw up? Of course, he's a teenager. But he is a moral, human, and kind person and while his methods may be a bit in the gray area, his intentions are good.
One day he meets two other people like him in the net. He follows them home and meets someone who not only knows what he is doing, he also knows about Alex's parents.
Will his quest for revenge end badly? You'll have to read the book for that answer.
This book is one you will want to read in one sitting. And when you are done you'll probably ask exactly what I did. Is the movie out yet???
Mr. Fayman has given us an excellent story and I hope Alex Fine will be around a long time in print and in film.
When we meet Alex he is about to leave the orphanage he has lived in since the day the good Ms. Jenkins had received him as a newborn. Not knowing his parents, even his real name, if he has one.
Alex is a handsome and brilliant teenager ready to head off to college when things take a turn he could have never seen coming. The orphanage gets a computer lab. Late one night working alone in the lab, looking at hot cars and beaches, like a normal teenage boy, his monitor goes blank. Checking the power cord he finds it plugged in, so he unplugs the internet cable, intending to plug it back in, but all of a sudden he is actually in the internet. Zipping at amazing speeds, he tries to figure out what happened to him. He sees a red light, heads toward it and Poof he is on a beach looking at the same view he was last looking at on the computer back at the orphanage. And not in L.A. but Hawaii.
As we watch Alex try to come to terms with what is happening to him, we also watch him struggle with his conscience. With all of the information on the internet, he can instantly change peoples lives and fortunes. What would you do with access to the FBI,CIA and every bank in the world? I personally like what Alex did.
The age old question of just because you can do something, should you? But this is Science Fiction, so Alex and the rest of us must suspend reality and just go with the story.
Does he screw up? Of course, he's a teenager. But he is a moral, human, and kind person and while his methods may be a bit in the gray area, his intentions are good.
One day he meets two other people like him in the net. He follows them home and meets someone who not only knows what he is doing, he also knows about Alex's parents.
Will his quest for revenge end badly? You'll have to read the book for that answer.
This book is one you will want to read in one sitting. And when you are done you'll probably ask exactly what I did. Is the movie out yet???
Mr. Fayman has given us an excellent story and I hope Alex Fine will be around a long time in print and in film.
August 22, 2015
Great read, in fact one of the smartest and most enjoyable books I have read in a while now.
My only very small gripe is that I expected a little more action, but it's so well written and the book captivates with every pages, so that in the end it didn't really matter that much. The ending wasn't bad but I also expected a more enticing one. That being said I can't wait to read the sequel :).
HIGHLY recommend to anyone who wants to read an original and smart SciFi thriller.
My only very small gripe is that I expected a little more action, but it's so well written and the book captivates with every pages, so that in the end it didn't really matter that much. The ending wasn't bad but I also expected a more enticing one. That being said I can't wait to read the sequel :).
HIGHLY recommend to anyone who wants to read an original and smart SciFi thriller.
April 12, 2018
I enjoyed this book, but I just simply couldn't learn to like the main character, Alex. He was really too immature, even for an 18-year-old. Many of his decisions affected those around him extremely negatively, and yet he was supposed to be the "hero" of the story. I really wanted to just tell him to grow up throughout the entire novel, especially close to the end.
Full Review: https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
Full Review: https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
August 9, 2018
A troubled orphan, Alex is on the verge of timing out of the system and is struggling to understand his next move. He has been greatly into computers since spending a brief time with an adoptive family, a passion kindled when computers finally arrive at his orphanage. While experiencing an issue with the new computers, he reaches down, grabs the network cable, and finds himself transporting along the colorful highway of lights and flashes known as the internet. Innocent at first, a series of missteps and information downloads quickly sends his life into a dangerous spiral, a spiral he will struggle to unravel himself from while learning the truth about how he came to be.
I found myself pretty engrossed from the start. And, while sometimes I felt the story would be predictable, it would take a twist in an unexpected direction. The fun of the book comes on multiple levels in the form of transformation in every aspect of his life. Watching these unfold was the “hook” that brought me deeper into the story.
First, you get to watch Alex go through a series of personal growth spurts. From shy, introverted orphan to developing close relationships and into someone dealing with serious, and too often dangerous, adult situations while he grapples with understanding both his new powers and his discovery of his roots puts this into the page turner category.
Second, just the overall “what is he going to do next” or “how will he handle this” moments are suspenseful, entertaining, and most importantly, unpredictable. Whenever Alex would travel, there was always a sense of “where is he going to end up” which was often times rewarded. The harrowing escapes and entries are really what made this book for me.
The last point that this book hits on very well is around the “Robin Hood” approach he adopts in his journeying about. While this will get him into some difficult situations, it showed a level of morality in him, both present and potential, that makes readers (including myself) want to dive into the second book in this series.
The overall storyline and premise of this book was both entertaining and fairly realistic outside of Alex’s gift. The timeline and information given in this first book definitely paves the way for a second book. This may seem obvious, knowing that this is the first book in a series, but I have read many “lead-off” books that left me underwhelmed and not really wanting to dive into book two or three. The background information in this first book easily leads into the coming attractions of the second book. And I can’t wait to crack that one open.
I found myself pretty engrossed from the start. And, while sometimes I felt the story would be predictable, it would take a twist in an unexpected direction. The fun of the book comes on multiple levels in the form of transformation in every aspect of his life. Watching these unfold was the “hook” that brought me deeper into the story.
First, you get to watch Alex go through a series of personal growth spurts. From shy, introverted orphan to developing close relationships and into someone dealing with serious, and too often dangerous, adult situations while he grapples with understanding both his new powers and his discovery of his roots puts this into the page turner category.
Second, just the overall “what is he going to do next” or “how will he handle this” moments are suspenseful, entertaining, and most importantly, unpredictable. Whenever Alex would travel, there was always a sense of “where is he going to end up” which was often times rewarded. The harrowing escapes and entries are really what made this book for me.
The last point that this book hits on very well is around the “Robin Hood” approach he adopts in his journeying about. While this will get him into some difficult situations, it showed a level of morality in him, both present and potential, that makes readers (including myself) want to dive into the second book in this series.
The overall storyline and premise of this book was both entertaining and fairly realistic outside of Alex’s gift. The timeline and information given in this first book definitely paves the way for a second book. This may seem obvious, knowing that this is the first book in a series, but I have read many “lead-off” books that left me underwhelmed and not really wanting to dive into book two or three. The background information in this first book easily leads into the coming attractions of the second book. And I can’t wait to crack that one open.
February 12, 2018
Digital Robin Hood
Alex Fine finds out he can travel through the pathways of the Internet, manipulate data online, and store information in his brain. Having lived most of his life in an orphanage, he knows what is to be poor. Alex decides to use his superpowers to steal money from international criminals and give it to those in need.
Travel along with Alex in his journey throughout the confines of the web. His journey takes him to Europe, the Caribbean, and both coasts of the United States. As he comes of age and has his first experiences with alcohol, sex, and drugs, he makes bad decisions. The consequences of his actions are severe. At the same time, Alex has to deal with finding the truth about his parents and superpowers.
I recommend this thrilling and exciting read to those who enjoy science fiction and modern thrillers.
Alex Fine finds out he can travel through the pathways of the Internet, manipulate data online, and store information in his brain. Having lived most of his life in an orphanage, he knows what is to be poor. Alex decides to use his superpowers to steal money from international criminals and give it to those in need.
Travel along with Alex in his journey throughout the confines of the web. His journey takes him to Europe, the Caribbean, and both coasts of the United States. As he comes of age and has his first experiences with alcohol, sex, and drugs, he makes bad decisions. The consequences of his actions are severe. At the same time, Alex has to deal with finding the truth about his parents and superpowers.
I recommend this thrilling and exciting read to those who enjoy science fiction and modern thrillers.
November 25, 2015
Alex Fayman’s Superhighway is a speculative fiction novel that is a mix of techno, science fiction, dystopian, and thriller elements. Superhighway is a good first start for Alex Fayman. His idea, the transporting of humans through the Internet via network fibers is not unlike the “Beam Me Up Scottie” of Star Trek. Fey’s invention is another medium, another version . Alex Fine a/k/a Alex Knot is a teenager that is looking at his future. Stanford University is his next stop until his life is changed forever by his grabbing a network cable. Alex’s abilities are rare, unheard of and have a feel that is quite similar to Susan Kaye’s Quinn’s series, Mindjack. It’s his first trip and from there Alex takes on the world. Like most young males, he has a series of girlfriends, one quite serious, and the rest, the typical stuff of youth. It is how he meets them that is quite different. He literally appears in a specified locale, goes in search of food and then starts after whatever he came looking for. The locales run the gamut, from Puerto Rico to Geneva to L.A., his base and from where the story opens, after the prologue.
A word about the prologue. Don’t give up on Superhighway after finishing the prologue. It covers new territory, world-building to a limited extent. The prologue can be difficult to decipher, but it gives you necessary context for the rest of the story. Take it at first blush and move on. Let the author get into the story he’s trying to tell. If you love books about orphans and their tales of their lives during their childhood and young adult years, Superhighway is also for you. Alex Fine is an orphan with unsuccessful times in foster homes. He is intelligent, an introvert, and a joy to what I term the headmistress of the orphanage. They form a special bond one that lasts through time. As with a lot of youths that I have dealt with through my work, Alex is adrift in the world and he feels unloved and unappreciated by the larger world. Initially his escape is the world of books; later, it becomes the world of computers, more particularly, the Internet.
Through his finding and discovering this new world, Alex seeks to right the scales and to some degree he does. Alex Fine is a pre-apocalyptic Robin Hood. His story is a coming of age, a get rich story, a finding, and losing of love, and Superhighway is in some ways a cautionary tale about youths that rush headlong into worlds and encounters for which they know little or nothing about. Superhighway is a YA book for older teens (16 and older who are somewhat sophisticated or street smart). Although radically different in time periods, narrative styles, and genres, Superhighway and Jennifer Reinoehl’s The Inconvenient Widow contains the same moral instruction and an impulsive protagonist with a stubborn streak that finds that for every actions, there is a reaction. Sometimes life is the immovable object or the windshield.
As to the end, some will not like it, but I found it refreshing. It is a cliff hanger, for another book in the future?
A few things that bothered me: a) Alex is still human, yet he understands Dutch. He can read it without any prior instruction or study. I would have preferred if there had been some lead-up that gave me this information without me having to assume that he understood a foreign language that he had never encountered before. After all, computers have translation programs and humans are not generally born knowing a language, especially not a foreign language right off the bat; b) Some of the language in the narrative is clunky (decisively Googled?) while there are other parts that are so lyrical (skyline orange, beautifully different, annihilated my moral compass);and c) Grammatical errors such as missing or wrong words, punctuation, and use of contractions in non-dialogue areas.
Superhighway is a well-crafted tale that resonated with me and my love for speculative dystopian pre-apocalyptic fiction. The description of South Beach and Miami, Florida was spot on. I have been there and felt like I was there again. The language matures as the main character matures while maintaining the goofiness so often present in teenage love (and lust) when Alex meets and interacts with the opposite sex. Alex’s trips through the Internet made me think of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Both break new ground in the odd, unexpected, and experimental ways.
A word about the prologue. Don’t give up on Superhighway after finishing the prologue. It covers new territory, world-building to a limited extent. The prologue can be difficult to decipher, but it gives you necessary context for the rest of the story. Take it at first blush and move on. Let the author get into the story he’s trying to tell. If you love books about orphans and their tales of their lives during their childhood and young adult years, Superhighway is also for you. Alex Fine is an orphan with unsuccessful times in foster homes. He is intelligent, an introvert, and a joy to what I term the headmistress of the orphanage. They form a special bond one that lasts through time. As with a lot of youths that I have dealt with through my work, Alex is adrift in the world and he feels unloved and unappreciated by the larger world. Initially his escape is the world of books; later, it becomes the world of computers, more particularly, the Internet.
Through his finding and discovering this new world, Alex seeks to right the scales and to some degree he does. Alex Fine is a pre-apocalyptic Robin Hood. His story is a coming of age, a get rich story, a finding, and losing of love, and Superhighway is in some ways a cautionary tale about youths that rush headlong into worlds and encounters for which they know little or nothing about. Superhighway is a YA book for older teens (16 and older who are somewhat sophisticated or street smart). Although radically different in time periods, narrative styles, and genres, Superhighway and Jennifer Reinoehl’s The Inconvenient Widow contains the same moral instruction and an impulsive protagonist with a stubborn streak that finds that for every actions, there is a reaction. Sometimes life is the immovable object or the windshield.
As to the end, some will not like it, but I found it refreshing. It is a cliff hanger, for another book in the future?
A few things that bothered me: a) Alex is still human, yet he understands Dutch. He can read it without any prior instruction or study. I would have preferred if there had been some lead-up that gave me this information without me having to assume that he understood a foreign language that he had never encountered before. After all, computers have translation programs and humans are not generally born knowing a language, especially not a foreign language right off the bat; b) Some of the language in the narrative is clunky (decisively Googled?) while there are other parts that are so lyrical (skyline orange, beautifully different, annihilated my moral compass);and c) Grammatical errors such as missing or wrong words, punctuation, and use of contractions in non-dialogue areas.
Superhighway is a well-crafted tale that resonated with me and my love for speculative dystopian pre-apocalyptic fiction. The description of South Beach and Miami, Florida was spot on. I have been there and felt like I was there again. The language matures as the main character matures while maintaining the goofiness so often present in teenage love (and lust) when Alex meets and interacts with the opposite sex. Alex’s trips through the Internet made me think of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Both break new ground in the odd, unexpected, and experimental ways.
February 22, 2018
I am always excited about new YA books (because I'm Young at Heart Adult), so I jumped at chance to read and review one.
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
March 6, 2016
Author Alex Fayman and his latest book “Superhighway“ is a story that will drag you into the heads of the characters and their lives profoundly. The reader follows young Alex Fine who has always felt the need to belong. His entire early life was spent in and out of one potentially adoptive family’s home to the next. Each time getting his little dreams in play all to be dashed to pieces when brought back to the orphanage in shame.
So he never found adoptive parents, yet he in a sense had one person in his life that thought of him as a son. It was Mrs. Jenkins who worked at the Los Angeles orphanage, where Alex lived. She loved him as a son, and felt a motherly duty towards him.
Alex grew to love her and learned from her. He earned his way to college with excelling grades and by the time he turned 18 and was ready to pursue his college studies he discovers an ability he never knew existed. It was something that made him as unique as an alien from outer-space.
He learned he could transport himself through the optic computer network via a network cable by squeezing it in one hand. This was the beginning of his fantastic journey into a vast world filled with deceit, murder, CIA cover-ups and much more. Alex, now an 18 – year-old Superhighway traveller discovers the story behind his biological parents disappearance; additionally, he finds out about several terrorist organisations and who funds them.
It was during this eye-opening time when he suffered the significant loss of his new girlfriend by the hands of criminals that shot her in the head in front of him. Alex was helpless to do anything, for he was tied to a chair. The fury he felt upon seeing the events unfold caused him to seek these monsters out after escaping to get even. Eventually, he decided to take matters into his hands and in a one-man guerrilla style he paid all the evil men back for their wicked deeds.
Of course these are things he does throughout the book culminating in a brilliant crescendo that is exciting and indeed something worth reading. I like it when a book makes me press on to find out what happens. It was an absorbing book full of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming.
It was a book written from the perspective of an 18-year-old and how he was dealing with the world he was discovering and the secrets that surrounded his family. He had what could only be described as a kind of superpower to go with his new mode of travel, so combined they served his objectives to find the truth. He used his new found wealth that he amassed through the Superhighway and manipulating various banks etc. for good. He set up an enormous charity to help many people, for that was what he wanted to do with what he had. He was a cyber world Robinhood.
I liked that Alex wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives. However, stealing is not a good solution to anything; nevertheless, it was the perfect solution concerning the circumstances in this book. He showed a lot of immaturity in some of his decisions such as smoking marijuana and drinking especially when driving. However, they were decisions made from a teenage perspective. Perhaps, he shall outgrow these vices we shall see, for Alex is an intelligent being.
Though he is very disturbed by the visuals he has witnessed throughout his life, he is working on coping with them in the best way he can, though his medalling instinct is not always the correct road to take. He learns these things later through the advice given from someone he can trust. The one person in the world that he feels he can trust. But you have to read the book to learn who that may be.
Alex is a strong character that needs to depend on his own wit to survive the expanding probabilities before him. Only in the wildest fantasies would his life make sense. If you wish to know how it all culminates, read the book Superhighway. It is a great little tome!
Thank you for your time.
This is Arwin Blue blowing the dust from another ancient tome!
So he never found adoptive parents, yet he in a sense had one person in his life that thought of him as a son. It was Mrs. Jenkins who worked at the Los Angeles orphanage, where Alex lived. She loved him as a son, and felt a motherly duty towards him.
Alex grew to love her and learned from her. He earned his way to college with excelling grades and by the time he turned 18 and was ready to pursue his college studies he discovers an ability he never knew existed. It was something that made him as unique as an alien from outer-space.
He learned he could transport himself through the optic computer network via a network cable by squeezing it in one hand. This was the beginning of his fantastic journey into a vast world filled with deceit, murder, CIA cover-ups and much more. Alex, now an 18 – year-old Superhighway traveller discovers the story behind his biological parents disappearance; additionally, he finds out about several terrorist organisations and who funds them.
It was during this eye-opening time when he suffered the significant loss of his new girlfriend by the hands of criminals that shot her in the head in front of him. Alex was helpless to do anything, for he was tied to a chair. The fury he felt upon seeing the events unfold caused him to seek these monsters out after escaping to get even. Eventually, he decided to take matters into his hands and in a one-man guerrilla style he paid all the evil men back for their wicked deeds.
Of course these are things he does throughout the book culminating in a brilliant crescendo that is exciting and indeed something worth reading. I like it when a book makes me press on to find out what happens. It was an absorbing book full of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming.
It was a book written from the perspective of an 18-year-old and how he was dealing with the world he was discovering and the secrets that surrounded his family. He had what could only be described as a kind of superpower to go with his new mode of travel, so combined they served his objectives to find the truth. He used his new found wealth that he amassed through the Superhighway and manipulating various banks etc. for good. He set up an enormous charity to help many people, for that was what he wanted to do with what he had. He was a cyber world Robinhood.
I liked that Alex wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives. However, stealing is not a good solution to anything; nevertheless, it was the perfect solution concerning the circumstances in this book. He showed a lot of immaturity in some of his decisions such as smoking marijuana and drinking especially when driving. However, they were decisions made from a teenage perspective. Perhaps, he shall outgrow these vices we shall see, for Alex is an intelligent being.
Though he is very disturbed by the visuals he has witnessed throughout his life, he is working on coping with them in the best way he can, though his medalling instinct is not always the correct road to take. He learns these things later through the advice given from someone he can trust. The one person in the world that he feels he can trust. But you have to read the book to learn who that may be.
Alex is a strong character that needs to depend on his own wit to survive the expanding probabilities before him. Only in the wildest fantasies would his life make sense. If you wish to know how it all culminates, read the book Superhighway. It is a great little tome!
Thank you for your time.
This is Arwin Blue blowing the dust from another ancient tome!
July 15, 2018
Superhighway starts off well enough. The book is fast paced in some places, whereas in others it dull and boring. It was a great premise for a sci-fi book but quickly devolved into the less interesting story of how Alex Fine makes mistakes, spends a lot of money, and has sex with women.
If you'd like to read my full review, you can find it here.
If you'd like to read my full review, you can find it here.
July 7, 2018
This one is a prime example of a good idea that went horribly wrong in the translation, primarily because the hero is such a self-absorbed, arrogant, jerk. Check out my full review at https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
May 8, 2018
I read this book in exchange for an honest review at Onlinebookclub.com
Superhighway is a novel that takes us through cyberspace to grand cities all over the world. We follow the main character Alex from his hometown orphanage in L.A. to beautiful beaches, busy cities, all filled with interesting characters. Alex grows in his relationships and knowledge of adult life as he works largely in the arena of “trial and error.” He fights his temptations but also learns how to embrace human interaction. Eventually, he finds out more about his birth family, and this is especially important to his growth.
Alex is able to travel through the internet and obtain classified information with a simple click of a mouse. He finds out that he can ruin the portfolios of some very powerful, evil men, and he takes advantage of that. However, we soon come to see that his actions have consequences.
I rate this book 2 out of 4 stars because while the author created a strong main character, I felt that he was very one-dimensional. I didn’t connect with him emotionally because there was a severe lack of introspection. The main character’s actions were continuously highlighted, but I rarely heard his thoughts and feelings. When I did recognize his feelings, they seemed contradictory to his actions, so it was difficult to know the real Alex.
I felt that the author did a fantastic job setting the scene. It was a fantasy book to me because almost every location discussed was dreamy and inviting. When I sat down to read the book, I almost felt as if I was on vacation and could live the rich life on the beach right there with Alex!
Another thing that the author did very well was in his descriptions and involvement of the supporting characters. I enjoyed the interactions, dialogue and physical descriptions of the other characters in the novel. I could always picture them, and they felt very real and important to the story.
This book wasn’t for me because it was geared toward young adults, and had quite a bit of sci-fi flavor. It got a little repetitive with the constant eating, random flings, and beach destinations. I questioned a few times where the author was heading because there didn’t seem to be a culmination that would be satisfying. The ending was unclear and unsatisfying for me, but I am assuming that is because of the sequel.
I would recommend this book to YA lovers, fantasy-genre readers and anybody who has dreamt of traveling through time and space to a beautiful place away from home.
Superhighway is a novel that takes us through cyberspace to grand cities all over the world. We follow the main character Alex from his hometown orphanage in L.A. to beautiful beaches, busy cities, all filled with interesting characters. Alex grows in his relationships and knowledge of adult life as he works largely in the arena of “trial and error.” He fights his temptations but also learns how to embrace human interaction. Eventually, he finds out more about his birth family, and this is especially important to his growth.
Alex is able to travel through the internet and obtain classified information with a simple click of a mouse. He finds out that he can ruin the portfolios of some very powerful, evil men, and he takes advantage of that. However, we soon come to see that his actions have consequences.
I rate this book 2 out of 4 stars because while the author created a strong main character, I felt that he was very one-dimensional. I didn’t connect with him emotionally because there was a severe lack of introspection. The main character’s actions were continuously highlighted, but I rarely heard his thoughts and feelings. When I did recognize his feelings, they seemed contradictory to his actions, so it was difficult to know the real Alex.
I felt that the author did a fantastic job setting the scene. It was a fantasy book to me because almost every location discussed was dreamy and inviting. When I sat down to read the book, I almost felt as if I was on vacation and could live the rich life on the beach right there with Alex!
Another thing that the author did very well was in his descriptions and involvement of the supporting characters. I enjoyed the interactions, dialogue and physical descriptions of the other characters in the novel. I could always picture them, and they felt very real and important to the story.
This book wasn’t for me because it was geared toward young adults, and had quite a bit of sci-fi flavor. It got a little repetitive with the constant eating, random flings, and beach destinations. I questioned a few times where the author was heading because there didn’t seem to be a culmination that would be satisfying. The ending was unclear and unsatisfying for me, but I am assuming that is because of the sequel.
I would recommend this book to YA lovers, fantasy-genre readers and anybody who has dreamt of traveling through time and space to a beautiful place away from home.
February 5, 2017
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Alex is an orphan who after having been through some bad experiences in foster care decides at the tender age of ten that the orphanage is his "home". He is bright and has a promising future ahead of him. He is now eighteen and ready to move on with his education but this is when his life changes by discovering that he has the ability to travel through the World Wide Web. Why me? He asks himself.
This new discovery leads him to endless new experiences, from going to exotic places to discovering "girls" and acquiring wealth amongst other things. After seeing some of the unfair treatment being dished out to those who are less fortunate, he comes up with a plan to rob those who have acquired wealth through illegal means to help the poor. Not unlike Robin Hood, but in a different dimension.
The first miscalculated decision he takes, ends up in a tragedy which makes him more determined than ever. He uncovers the criminal world where those who have money get away with murder, literally. Those in power protect the rich instead of helping the ones in need. Crime and corruption go unpunished.
He makes some bad decisions along the way, most with good Intentions which don't go quite as planned or lack of planning. He is young and only human after all. When he is told about how his power came to be, he is devastated by the story behind the events leading up to who he is and his emotions get the better of him.
This book is narrated in Alex's POV and it's so well done that I felt like I was in the places he visited and experienced his different emotions. He is kind, considerate, loving and loyal. His honesty brings about his own unhappiness.
Superhighway is innovative and unique but at the same time reflects current affairs to make it even more real and believable. Reading this book was like watching a movie, to me it deserves to be made into a movie. This is by far one of the best books I have read this year and I would fully recommend to those who like a good Science Fiction. I am not a big fan of this genre but Superhighway has changed my views and I am now a convert. I hope that there is a sequel as I would like to see more of Alex. Hint! There is no need for me to go on about how brilliant the author is. Read the book and find out for yourselves. This is one which I will definitely read again.
Alex is an orphan who after having been through some bad experiences in foster care decides at the tender age of ten that the orphanage is his "home". He is bright and has a promising future ahead of him. He is now eighteen and ready to move on with his education but this is when his life changes by discovering that he has the ability to travel through the World Wide Web. Why me? He asks himself.
This new discovery leads him to endless new experiences, from going to exotic places to discovering "girls" and acquiring wealth amongst other things. After seeing some of the unfair treatment being dished out to those who are less fortunate, he comes up with a plan to rob those who have acquired wealth through illegal means to help the poor. Not unlike Robin Hood, but in a different dimension.
The first miscalculated decision he takes, ends up in a tragedy which makes him more determined than ever. He uncovers the criminal world where those who have money get away with murder, literally. Those in power protect the rich instead of helping the ones in need. Crime and corruption go unpunished.
He makes some bad decisions along the way, most with good Intentions which don't go quite as planned or lack of planning. He is young and only human after all. When he is told about how his power came to be, he is devastated by the story behind the events leading up to who he is and his emotions get the better of him.
This book is narrated in Alex's POV and it's so well done that I felt like I was in the places he visited and experienced his different emotions. He is kind, considerate, loving and loyal. His honesty brings about his own unhappiness.
Superhighway is innovative and unique but at the same time reflects current affairs to make it even more real and believable. Reading this book was like watching a movie, to me it deserves to be made into a movie. This is by far one of the best books I have read this year and I would fully recommend to those who like a good Science Fiction. I am not a big fan of this genre but Superhighway has changed my views and I am now a convert. I hope that there is a sequel as I would like to see more of Alex. Hint! There is no need for me to go on about how brilliant the author is. Read the book and find out for yourselves. This is one which I will definitely read again.
January 24, 2019
Superhighway was okay. The idea behind the novel is unique, but the execution was lacking for me. The dialogue was stiff, the main character fairly one-dimensional and I didn't like the casual underage drinking, drug use or sexual flings. Some people have this listed as YA I personally do not think younger readers should read it. I would consider it New Adult or just general fiction for mature readers.
For a more in depth review: My OnlineBookClub Review
For a more in depth review: My OnlineBookClub Review
May 5, 2015
We all like to think that if we had the ability to make everything right and fair in the world, the world itself would be a better place. But could our good intentions actually do more harm than good? You may ask; how can that be when the intentions are good and the idea of our intentions are backed up by common sense? How could the results be bad?
College freshman Alex Fine discovers that he has the ability to travel through any area of the Internet. Alex uses his ability to better himself first by getting information for his professional and personal needs as well as traveling through the world virtually. After some time, he becomes one of the wealthiest men in the world and takes full advantage of his new fortune. With his wealth and power, he decides to help others. But he donates money he took that actually causes other well intended people to suffer financially. As more terrible events happen, Alex becomes severely depressed because he believes that his use of his powers caused all of the recent tragic events. As he tries to fix what he did, he also battles suicidal thoughts.
Whenever a financial crisis occurs like the one in 1929 or in 2008, we all probably thought; what could have been done to prevent such a catastrophe? Well, how do we know that all of the alternatives would have been better? I'm not saying that what happened in '29 and '08 were good things but after reading this book, I found myself thinking; it could have been worse. What Alex Fayman did with "Superhighway" was remarkable. He took a very likeable character, gave him powers that I'm sure all of us would be excited to have and after he had fun with it, he tried to help others. Unfortunately, not all of the results of his seemingly good deeds were good. But hopefully, the sales of his book will be better than good because it deserves more sales.
College freshman Alex Fine discovers that he has the ability to travel through any area of the Internet. Alex uses his ability to better himself first by getting information for his professional and personal needs as well as traveling through the world virtually. After some time, he becomes one of the wealthiest men in the world and takes full advantage of his new fortune. With his wealth and power, he decides to help others. But he donates money he took that actually causes other well intended people to suffer financially. As more terrible events happen, Alex becomes severely depressed because he believes that his use of his powers caused all of the recent tragic events. As he tries to fix what he did, he also battles suicidal thoughts.
Whenever a financial crisis occurs like the one in 1929 or in 2008, we all probably thought; what could have been done to prevent such a catastrophe? Well, how do we know that all of the alternatives would have been better? I'm not saying that what happened in '29 and '08 were good things but after reading this book, I found myself thinking; it could have been worse. What Alex Fayman did with "Superhighway" was remarkable. He took a very likeable character, gave him powers that I'm sure all of us would be excited to have and after he had fun with it, he tried to help others. Unfortunately, not all of the results of his seemingly good deeds were good. But hopefully, the sales of his book will be better than good because it deserves more sales.
November 25, 2015
Sit back and enjoy the ride
4.5 out of 5 stars
Alex is just like all the other kids at his orphanage, he’s older and he’s about to “time out” of the system. He had a taste of computers when an adoptive family had a computer in an “off-limits” room, and he felt like he’d known the internet his whole life (even though he was just using it). Then one day, he grabs the cord behind the new computers in his orphanage and bam — he’s travelling through the “portals” of the internet.
This was a page-turner for me. Mostly because I wanted to know what Alex’s next move was going to be. Alex started off a shy and quiet kid and by the end he’d made a total transformation. This is a technothriller mixed with a coming of age story. Alex, who is also a hit with the ladies has numerous different girls who attempt to get his attention, and following those stories as they progressed was fun and engaging (without being creepy or weird).
This was one of those “fun” books that I don’t read as much as I would like. The premise was unique and reminded me of some AI books I’ve read, but was different from the main characters point of view. There are some serious and some graphic scenes in it. I would warn some that there are graphic scenes involving torture and murder — just be warned. It was a surprise to me, I knew what Alex was doing, but I didn’t expect that turn to happe
I don’t want to give too much away, but this book is definitely one of those that builds. The beginning is just background, then you find out Alex’s “superpower” and what he wants to do with it — but the actual gameplan and execution were a blast to read.
A “superhigway” of a read. This was one of those books I’m glad I read.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Alex is just like all the other kids at his orphanage, he’s older and he’s about to “time out” of the system. He had a taste of computers when an adoptive family had a computer in an “off-limits” room, and he felt like he’d known the internet his whole life (even though he was just using it). Then one day, he grabs the cord behind the new computers in his orphanage and bam — he’s travelling through the “portals” of the internet.
This was a page-turner for me. Mostly because I wanted to know what Alex’s next move was going to be. Alex started off a shy and quiet kid and by the end he’d made a total transformation. This is a technothriller mixed with a coming of age story. Alex, who is also a hit with the ladies has numerous different girls who attempt to get his attention, and following those stories as they progressed was fun and engaging (without being creepy or weird).
This was one of those “fun” books that I don’t read as much as I would like. The premise was unique and reminded me of some AI books I’ve read, but was different from the main characters point of view. There are some serious and some graphic scenes in it. I would warn some that there are graphic scenes involving torture and murder — just be warned. It was a surprise to me, I knew what Alex was doing, but I didn’t expect that turn to happe
I don’t want to give too much away, but this book is definitely one of those that builds. The beginning is just background, then you find out Alex’s “superpower” and what he wants to do with it — but the actual gameplan and execution were a blast to read.
A “superhigway” of a read. This was one of those books I’m glad I read.
December 10, 2015
This is a sci-fi, cyber thriller that I can get behind and highly recommend. It's also a young adult, urban fantasy serving as an origin story for a new type of "superhero."
18 y.o. Alex Fine in many ways epitomizes the clunky blend of intelligent yet myopic, and sexually alluring yet emotionally naive that defines the coming-of-age male (not unlike The Catcher in the Rye's Holden). And yet Alex is not like other guys in that his back story is an empty manila envelop. Largely, he's been raised in an orphanage.
On the precipice of striking out on his own to head to Stanford, he stumbles across a unique talent/curse--he can digitally enter and traverse the web, downloading and manipulating information as he goes. For a kid that's barely traveled and never known money, this is too tempting a situation. Throw in the age-appropriate sluttiness, along with pot and alcohol and Alex's decision-making gets derailed.
Within a few short weeks, he's rubbing entire crime syndicates the wrong way. Through his powers and good intentions, he aims to be a cyber-Robin Hood robbing from the corrupt to aid the world's poor. He also manages to open doors to his past . . .
One can only hope that there's much more to tell with Alex's story as the scope of his travels and infractions span oceans and generations.
I received my copy of this novel directly from the author through bookreviewdirectory.wordpress.com.
18 y.o. Alex Fine in many ways epitomizes the clunky blend of intelligent yet myopic, and sexually alluring yet emotionally naive that defines the coming-of-age male (not unlike The Catcher in the Rye's Holden). And yet Alex is not like other guys in that his back story is an empty manila envelop. Largely, he's been raised in an orphanage.
On the precipice of striking out on his own to head to Stanford, he stumbles across a unique talent/curse--he can digitally enter and traverse the web, downloading and manipulating information as he goes. For a kid that's barely traveled and never known money, this is too tempting a situation. Throw in the age-appropriate sluttiness, along with pot and alcohol and Alex's decision-making gets derailed.
Within a few short weeks, he's rubbing entire crime syndicates the wrong way. Through his powers and good intentions, he aims to be a cyber-Robin Hood robbing from the corrupt to aid the world's poor. He also manages to open doors to his past . . .
One can only hope that there's much more to tell with Alex's story as the scope of his travels and infractions span oceans and generations.
I received my copy of this novel directly from the author through bookreviewdirectory.wordpress.com.
February 22, 2016
This is something new, something fresh! Alex Fine is an orphan who generally accepts his lot in life. He has been placed in 3 different foster homes and then ‘returned’, like a piece of defective merchandise. As one of the older kids in the orphanage he is placed in charge of the new computer facilities when they arrive. Little does he know that everything he has come to know about his life is going to change.
While sitting in the computer lab he touches a network cable and is unexpectedly swept away into the information highway. He, in essence, is part of the electrons and packets going through the wires. Inside, he has the powers of a superhacker – nothing is out of his reach. He has full access to top secret CIA records, Lehman Brothers bank accounts and anything else connected online. During this process he can travel vast distances and end up on the other side of the world. While learning how to do this he ends up in some interesting predicaments.
Swept away in his new powers, Alex begins to lose control. With the world at his fingertips, he starts a Robinhood crusade to make perceived wrongs, right. With this intervention comes unexpected consequences. Along the way Alex figures out the origin of his powers and his own history. Too much power, too fast would aptly describe his own downfall. A fantastic ride along the way is in store for you, should you read Superhighway, which is certainly a new take on science fiction. It’s an easy read, which grabs you in the beginning and doesn’t let go. Highly recommend!!!
While sitting in the computer lab he touches a network cable and is unexpectedly swept away into the information highway. He, in essence, is part of the electrons and packets going through the wires. Inside, he has the powers of a superhacker – nothing is out of his reach. He has full access to top secret CIA records, Lehman Brothers bank accounts and anything else connected online. During this process he can travel vast distances and end up on the other side of the world. While learning how to do this he ends up in some interesting predicaments.
Swept away in his new powers, Alex begins to lose control. With the world at his fingertips, he starts a Robinhood crusade to make perceived wrongs, right. With this intervention comes unexpected consequences. Along the way Alex figures out the origin of his powers and his own history. Too much power, too fast would aptly describe his own downfall. A fantastic ride along the way is in store for you, should you read Superhighway, which is certainly a new take on science fiction. It’s an easy read, which grabs you in the beginning and doesn’t let go. Highly recommend!!!
July 7, 2015
Beautiful women, fast cars, gun battles, tropical islands, classified CIA experiments, espionage and organized crime—Alex Fayman’s Superhighway has all the makings of a hit thriller. The first book of this planned trilogy will draw you into a world of crime and seduction and leave you wanting more.
Alex Fine has a supernatural ability, but even his compassionate heart bears the weaknesses of ordinary men. Using his mysterious gift for electroportation, the story’s protagonist and narrator is a sort of tech-age Robin Hood, stealing billions from the world’s most nefarious organized criminals and sharing his loot with society’s discarded souls—but he still manages to indulge himself. Suspicions arise when the father of the girl loves begins looking into Alex’s background. In his quest for an explanation for his bizarre talents, Alex realizes that his fantasy world with its tropical islands and million-dollar sports cars may ultimately be his downfall as the powerful men he has stolen from seem to have returned to collect. He is left running for his life while searching for a way to redeem the love he has destroyed.
From LA to Hawaii, Amsterdam, Miami, New York and the Caribbean, Fayman takes his reader on a wild ride spanning the globe. Superhighway is loaded with twists and turns that keep the reader on edge, begging to know what’s around the next turn. I didn’t want to put it down, and I can’t wait for the second in this series.
Alex Fine has a supernatural ability, but even his compassionate heart bears the weaknesses of ordinary men. Using his mysterious gift for electroportation, the story’s protagonist and narrator is a sort of tech-age Robin Hood, stealing billions from the world’s most nefarious organized criminals and sharing his loot with society’s discarded souls—but he still manages to indulge himself. Suspicions arise when the father of the girl loves begins looking into Alex’s background. In his quest for an explanation for his bizarre talents, Alex realizes that his fantasy world with its tropical islands and million-dollar sports cars may ultimately be his downfall as the powerful men he has stolen from seem to have returned to collect. He is left running for his life while searching for a way to redeem the love he has destroyed.
From LA to Hawaii, Amsterdam, Miami, New York and the Caribbean, Fayman takes his reader on a wild ride spanning the globe. Superhighway is loaded with twists and turns that keep the reader on edge, begging to know what’s around the next turn. I didn’t want to put it down, and I can’t wait for the second in this series.
February 25, 2016
Superhighway was an exciting debut of a series with aspects making it good for both sci-fi and non-sci-fi fans. It had an imaginative, well-paced plot with a likable MC. It was not heavily sci-fi in that the technical part of the computer technology was just enough without overkill. Yet it still stayed true to sci-fi in that it raised some interesting moral and social questions, which I imagine will be played out more in later books.
The MC (Alex) grew on me, partly because even as a hero he was human, and a YA at that. It stayed true to a YA’s way of thinking about and approaching the world, including their youthful energy, desires to do good, impulsive urges and decisions, yet still engaging the world in intelligent ways. His orphan/foster home background lent depth to the character, as did some of the slights and mistakes he made along the way.
In a way, this was a long “origins” story. The MC asked many times, “Why me?”; and the answer eventually became clear near the end. By that time I had been brought along to care enough to find out why myself, added to my pleasure in the book, and led me to rate this highly, a 4.5.
[I'm excited to have won this as a Goodreads First Read – so thanks, Alex!]
The MC (Alex) grew on me, partly because even as a hero he was human, and a YA at that. It stayed true to a YA’s way of thinking about and approaching the world, including their youthful energy, desires to do good, impulsive urges and decisions, yet still engaging the world in intelligent ways. His orphan/foster home background lent depth to the character, as did some of the slights and mistakes he made along the way.
In a way, this was a long “origins” story. The MC asked many times, “Why me?”; and the answer eventually became clear near the end. By that time I had been brought along to care enough to find out why myself, added to my pleasure in the book, and led me to rate this highly, a 4.5.
[I'm excited to have won this as a Goodreads First Read – so thanks, Alex!]
March 18, 2018
Good YA genre novel
+ unique premise
+ authentic YA narrator
+ few typos
- transition to and from framing devices are too abrupt
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
+ unique premise
+ authentic YA narrator
+ few typos
- transition to and from framing devices are too abrupt
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
April 8, 2017
I’ll try my best not to summarize the whole story since it’s a must read for others. This is the story of Alex Fine, an intelligent young man who lived in an orphanage. His fascination with computers led to the discovery that he has the ability to travel via the internet. Throughout his journey, Alex also discovers that he is able to manipulate internet data; this ability led him to money that weren’t previously accessible. He is now a wealthy man, and he embraces the Robin Hood mentality of taking from the rich and giving to the poor. His choices however, had dire consequences.
I thought the author wrote well. It has the making of a good science fiction movie or series. In the beginning of the book, Fayman’s depiction of the trials and tribulations of orphanage living was very accurate. The character is dynamic, and I was hooked from the start. Fayman also described the internet traveling scenes in a sumptuous manner; the descriptions were gaudy, it’s as if I was the one traveling the super-highway of the internet, experiencing the sharp curves and abrupt turns. It’s definitely a good read and I recommend it. Five Stars!
I thought the author wrote well. It has the making of a good science fiction movie or series. In the beginning of the book, Fayman’s depiction of the trials and tribulations of orphanage living was very accurate. The character is dynamic, and I was hooked from the start. Fayman also described the internet traveling scenes in a sumptuous manner; the descriptions were gaudy, it’s as if I was the one traveling the super-highway of the internet, experiencing the sharp curves and abrupt turns. It’s definitely a good read and I recommend it. Five Stars!
March 2, 2016
Loved it.
Want to read a book that is simply wonderful? Well look no further! Superhighway is a brilliantly amazing Sci-fiction story that has unpredictable plots and twists, which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Author Fayman did an awesome job painting a story on the pages of a book. So the story is about freshman, Alex Fine and his extraordinary ability to travel through any area of the Internet. How cool would it be, to change things? Well Alex knows. He uses his ability to make his life better by traveling through the world virtually. When you think better do you think, I'll be the wealthiest person in the world? Well Alex did just that, but Alex doesn't want to be the kind of person that just sets back and enjoys the money and power, no he decides to help others. Unfortunately for him, his very charitable way of thinking actually causes others to suffer financially. With the knowledge of what is happening and other events around him, Alex becomes depressed. As he tries to fix what he did, he also battles suicidal thoughts.
This book was remarkable, and author Fayman is a incredible writer.
5 start read, well worth it.
Want to read a book that is simply wonderful? Well look no further! Superhighway is a brilliantly amazing Sci-fiction story that has unpredictable plots and twists, which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Author Fayman did an awesome job painting a story on the pages of a book. So the story is about freshman, Alex Fine and his extraordinary ability to travel through any area of the Internet. How cool would it be, to change things? Well Alex knows. He uses his ability to make his life better by traveling through the world virtually. When you think better do you think, I'll be the wealthiest person in the world? Well Alex did just that, but Alex doesn't want to be the kind of person that just sets back and enjoys the money and power, no he decides to help others. Unfortunately for him, his very charitable way of thinking actually causes others to suffer financially. With the knowledge of what is happening and other events around him, Alex becomes depressed. As he tries to fix what he did, he also battles suicidal thoughts.
This book was remarkable, and author Fayman is a incredible writer.
5 start read, well worth it.
November 25, 2015
Superhighway is a story about a young man who is discovering that he has the power to do something that he didn’t even dream was possible. There is no one to guide or train him in the correct use of these powers and he has to stumble along the way and try to figure it out all by himself. Besides the mistakes that he makes while using his newly found powers, he also seems to get high on that premise and he makes some elementary mistakes in his romantic and social encounters. He is however very charismatic and it is easy to forgive him and wait and hope that others will do so as well.
Bottom line: this is a very gripping tale that flows smoothly and makes you want to keep reading to find out what is awaiting the hero around the next bend so to speak. It leaves you wishing that the second part of this trilogy was available right now, but we all have to wait. Mr. Fayman is hard at work on part 2 and it should be available in a couple of months. The kindle version of Superhighway can be found at Amazon.com.
Bottom line: this is a very gripping tale that flows smoothly and makes you want to keep reading to find out what is awaiting the hero around the next bend so to speak. It leaves you wishing that the second part of this trilogy was available right now, but we all have to wait. Mr. Fayman is hard at work on part 2 and it should be available in a couple of months. The kindle version of Superhighway can be found at Amazon.com.
February 7, 2016
I was trawling goodreads looking to get my next "fix" and something about the synopsis for this book kicked me in the gut. But I hesitated, I moved on, and found myself returning to Alex Fayman's author page constantly. After the fifth return, I finally took the plunge and clicked on "Buy" I was not disappointed with my purchase. Alex Fine grows up in an orphanage. One day he accidentally discovers he has an unusual gift. The ability to travel by electroportation. This is the power to travel as pure electrical energy through power conduits. There is no where on the planet that Alex can't be in seconds. Popping out through internet cables in what turns out at time to be sticky, humorous situations. Add to this exciting power, Alex's care free, dare- devil attitude, and Alex is headed for a world of financial success, heart ache and mortal danger when he repeatedly uses his fantastic powers to defraud corporations of billions of dollars. The suspense and action in this book was incredible. The ending suggests there will be a sequel. Can't wait. Definitely recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews