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Tradecraft #1
Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero
When researcher Jawad Khattib gasps his last breath on the Massachusetts General Hospital floor, the Department of Homeland Security wants answers—especially after a preliminary autopsy suggests he died of radiation poisoning. What exactly was Khattib working on? And who was he working for?DHS Agent Lee Jansen is rushed to Boston and paired with expert toxicologist Dr. Emma Hess to crack the case. All evidence points to the creation of a dirty bomb, but the clues seem too clean, too obvious. During the course of their investigation, they discover the horrible truth. This new weapon is far more deadly than anyone had expected. It isn’t just capable of killing hundreds—it’s capable of killing hundreds of thousands. Can they stop what’s been set in motion by a madman with a dangerous secret before it’s too late?
- GenresFiction
368 pages, Paperback
Published November 9, 2016
35 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 10, 2021
Yep, o.k., this was a good read! I'll confess that I nearly gave up on this book. Not because it was awful, but because of the medical jargon. The body and all it various bits and pieces are easy for me, but biology and all that entails is a pain in my backside! Mr. Shusko excelled at description though, so I stuck with it. I'm glad I did. Matter of fact, I liked the book so much that I'll be reading the next one from this author. The subject of ethnic cleansing is terrifying, so I'm curious to see what else Mr. Shusko can scare me with! My thanks to the Author, and Netgalley for the gratis e-book copy. Recommended.
April 17, 2017
Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero is a compelling fast-paced thriller that deals with the idea of a bio-chemical weapon that can end the life of hundreds of people easily. The plot is well thought out and right from the beginning, the foundation is set for an entertaining read. The reader is drawn into a web of secrets and deceit without ever knowing who is really involved and who isn't.
Starting with the suspicious death of researcher Jawad Khattib, to the meeting of some brilliant minds, the author has created some wonderful characters with whom we can relate. Each one has their own story that has shaped who they turn out to be. The experience and expertise of the author in this genre and area are clearly distinguishable through his writing. The author has included a lot of technical information, be it medical, bio-chemical or even military but it is easy for the reader to understand this.
The protagonist is a strong character, though he has been dealt some serious blows in life and is trying to deal with it. Dr. Emma Hess on the other hand was a winner for me, along with Dr Sue. They are women with in-depth knowledge of their field of work and among the foremost. It was a pleasure to read about them and their role in this story.
This book has all the elements for a good action-packed entertainer and will certainly ensure that the reader gets pulled in for the ride. Who can be trusted and who cannot is one part of the major plot with some serious twists at the end, giving us a hint that there is more to this story.
Starting with the suspicious death of researcher Jawad Khattib, to the meeting of some brilliant minds, the author has created some wonderful characters with whom we can relate. Each one has their own story that has shaped who they turn out to be. The experience and expertise of the author in this genre and area are clearly distinguishable through his writing. The author has included a lot of technical information, be it medical, bio-chemical or even military but it is easy for the reader to understand this.
The protagonist is a strong character, though he has been dealt some serious blows in life and is trying to deal with it. Dr. Emma Hess on the other hand was a winner for me, along with Dr Sue. They are women with in-depth knowledge of their field of work and among the foremost. It was a pleasure to read about them and their role in this story.
This book has all the elements for a good action-packed entertainer and will certainly ensure that the reader gets pulled in for the ride. Who can be trusted and who cannot is one part of the major plot with some serious twists at the end, giving us a hint that there is more to this story.
February 23, 2017
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This book is alarmingly realistic!
Don't lose focus while reading this book, this is my advice. Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero is a mind boggling, frazzling (in a good way) thriller. Told in multiple points of view Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero will have your thoughts in a whirl wind.
Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero takes place in Boston Massachusetts with Dr. Emma Hess, a top notch toxicologist and Lee Jansen, a DHS (Department of Homeland Security) Agent. Agent Lee is rushed from D.C. and off to Boston to investigate the death of a researcher, Jawhad Khattib, with Dr. Hess. The DHS wants to know how Khattib died, what he was researching and who was he working for.
Agent Jansen and Dr. Hess are teamed up to figure out if Khattib was a terrorist and if he had a dirty bomb planted in Boston. All the clues say yes but this Agent and Doctor find quickly that this investigation is a far cry from the simple case they had thought it was. After finding something more devastating than a dirty bomb, Agent Jansen and Dr. Hess have to collect solid proof of this horrible discovery.
But can they convince their superiors, get the backup they need and put an end to this atrocious case?
Things I like: First and foremost my favorite part of this novel was the the dialogue of this novel and the thought process of these characters. With Shusko's obvious military experience and research, this book was written in authentic and believable voices. The writing in this book is very well written and thought out.
The main character's, like Agent Jansen, Dr. Hess, Sue and Dr. Manny, themselves had well developed voices and personalities. I really liked Agent Jansen's and Dr. Hess' relationship. It wasn't love at first sight or anything like that but more of a burning respect that grew into friendship and then maybe something more.
Although I liked the Agent and Doctor, I really loved Manny. He was by far my favorite character. His voice and personality are humorous yes but also so deadpanned I love it. He's a no nonsense type of dude and a really sarcastic guy. How can you not like him?!?!?
This is the type of book that you become immersed in and feel like your watching a movie or even walking and talking right along side with the characters themselves.
Things I didn't like: The only problem I had with this book was that although it was well written, I felt myself skipping a bit of the scientific talk. It wasn't intentional and I had to reread the skipped parts because I missed very important explanations. I just wished, not for the scientific talk to be dumbed down or taken away, a little more ordinary talk would have been written. But at the same time I liked the writing just as is and everything was explained so you didn't have to look up anything in the dictionary haha.
Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero is a well-written, well thought out and researched, fast pace thriller. I recommend this book to thriller fans or realistic fiction fans. Kudos to you Micheal Shusko!
***I received a copy of this novel from a representative of the author in exchange for a honest review.***
This book is alarmingly realistic!
Don't lose focus while reading this book, this is my advice. Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero is a mind boggling, frazzling (in a good way) thriller. Told in multiple points of view Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero will have your thoughts in a whirl wind.
Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero takes place in Boston Massachusetts with Dr. Emma Hess, a top notch toxicologist and Lee Jansen, a DHS (Department of Homeland Security) Agent. Agent Lee is rushed from D.C. and off to Boston to investigate the death of a researcher, Jawhad Khattib, with Dr. Hess. The DHS wants to know how Khattib died, what he was researching and who was he working for.
Agent Jansen and Dr. Hess are teamed up to figure out if Khattib was a terrorist and if he had a dirty bomb planted in Boston. All the clues say yes but this Agent and Doctor find quickly that this investigation is a far cry from the simple case they had thought it was. After finding something more devastating than a dirty bomb, Agent Jansen and Dr. Hess have to collect solid proof of this horrible discovery.
"It's not safe in anyone's hands."
But can they convince their superiors, get the backup they need and put an end to this atrocious case?
Things I like: First and foremost my favorite part of this novel was the the dialogue of this novel and the thought process of these characters. With Shusko's obvious military experience and research, this book was written in authentic and believable voices. The writing in this book is very well written and thought out.
The main character's, like Agent Jansen, Dr. Hess, Sue and Dr. Manny, themselves had well developed voices and personalities. I really liked Agent Jansen's and Dr. Hess' relationship. It wasn't love at first sight or anything like that but more of a burning respect that grew into friendship and then maybe something more.
"But you don't need to do this alone. Let people around you help you."
Although I liked the Agent and Doctor, I really loved Manny. He was by far my favorite character. His voice and personality are humorous yes but also so deadpanned I love it. He's a no nonsense type of dude and a really sarcastic guy. How can you not like him?!?!?
"They taught us a lots of useful things in the Rangers. - And what I didn't learn from the Army, my middle brethren taught me," Manny added. "In other words, you don't want to know."
This is the type of book that you become immersed in and feel like your watching a movie or even walking and talking right along side with the characters themselves.
Things I didn't like: The only problem I had with this book was that although it was well written, I felt myself skipping a bit of the scientific talk. It wasn't intentional and I had to reread the skipped parts because I missed very important explanations. I just wished, not for the scientific talk to be dumbed down or taken away, a little more ordinary talk would have been written. But at the same time I liked the writing just as is and everything was explained so you didn't have to look up anything in the dictionary haha.
Vector: Tradecraft: Phase Zero is a well-written, well thought out and researched, fast pace thriller. I recommend this book to thriller fans or realistic fiction fans. Kudos to you Micheal Shusko!
***I received a copy of this novel from a representative of the author in exchange for a honest review.***
Read
February 10, 2017Looking for your next thriller page turner? This may be the book for you. I typically don't read alot of these types of books, but I was intrigued by the premise of the story and I am glad to say I did.
The book appealed to me because it was not just a mystery, but because of the medical story line as well. I was curious about what it would be that would cause something like this to happen. (Yes, I know that is vague, but remember no spoilers here!)
The agents in the book use their technical expertise to try to make sense of what could be a very dangerous situation. This book leaves you wanting to keep reading just so that you know what happens.
I enjoyed the book. Thanks for the opportunity.
Disclaimer: I was awarded this book. Though I did not pay for the book, the opinions are strictly my own.
The book appealed to me because it was not just a mystery, but because of the medical story line as well. I was curious about what it would be that would cause something like this to happen. (Yes, I know that is vague, but remember no spoilers here!)
The agents in the book use their technical expertise to try to make sense of what could be a very dangerous situation. This book leaves you wanting to keep reading just so that you know what happens.
I enjoyed the book. Thanks for the opportunity.
Disclaimer: I was awarded this book. Though I did not pay for the book, the opinions are strictly my own.
June 2, 2017
Worldwide terrorism with its roots in Boston
This was a fast moving scary look at a shadowy clandestine organization that is behind the creation of a terrible bioweapon.
Department of Homeland Security agent and ex-Marine Lee Jansen has been reeling lately from a series of traumatic events in his life and the future isn't looking much better.
Dr. Emma Hess specializes in toxicology but is also a medical doctor and a professor.
Both Lee and Emma, along with Dr. Manny Ortiz, ex-Army Ranger and now an emergency trauma resident, are all called in when a patient collapses and dies with unusual symptoms at Massachusetts General Hospital.
This starts a whirlwind of activity, with these three plus others trying to track down a deadly weapon before it can be used against a huge population of people.
The author of the story, Michael Shusko, is a medical doctor with many specialties, an ex-Marine, and has worked on intelligence operations around the world and these experiences really show in the believability of this novel.
Believable fully described characters, a lot of medical and science terminology (but it's explained clearly), and a storyline that seems all too realistic make this a medical/military thriller that I highly recommend.
I received this book from the author through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
This was a fast moving scary look at a shadowy clandestine organization that is behind the creation of a terrible bioweapon.
Department of Homeland Security agent and ex-Marine Lee Jansen has been reeling lately from a series of traumatic events in his life and the future isn't looking much better.
Dr. Emma Hess specializes in toxicology but is also a medical doctor and a professor.
Both Lee and Emma, along with Dr. Manny Ortiz, ex-Army Ranger and now an emergency trauma resident, are all called in when a patient collapses and dies with unusual symptoms at Massachusetts General Hospital.
This starts a whirlwind of activity, with these three plus others trying to track down a deadly weapon before it can be used against a huge population of people.
The author of the story, Michael Shusko, is a medical doctor with many specialties, an ex-Marine, and has worked on intelligence operations around the world and these experiences really show in the believability of this novel.
Believable fully described characters, a lot of medical and science terminology (but it's explained clearly), and a storyline that seems all too realistic make this a medical/military thriller that I highly recommend.
I received this book from the author through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
June 11, 2017
Review: VECTOR: TRADECRAFT: PHASE ZERO by Michael Shusko
A nonstop action medical/bioterrorism thriller, chilling spines, VECTOR is all too real and the threats it presents all too plausible. In today's geopolitical climate, with science and military research devoted to the creation and prevention of biological weapons, such a scenario could easily occur, and not only from the usual terrorism venues. A strong and intelligent female protagonist renders appeal, while readers will ask themselves: "Could this happen? What if?" Bound to raise quite a few nightmares!
A nonstop action medical/bioterrorism thriller, chilling spines, VECTOR is all too real and the threats it presents all too plausible. In today's geopolitical climate, with science and military research devoted to the creation and prevention of biological weapons, such a scenario could easily occur, and not only from the usual terrorism venues. A strong and intelligent female protagonist renders appeal, while readers will ask themselves: "Could this happen? What if?" Bound to raise quite a few nightmares!
May 25, 2017
This book introduces Jawad Khattib, a researcher whose death seems to be due to radiation exposure; DHS agent Lee Jansen and toxicologist Dr. Emma Hess teaming up to find the truth.
With Vector, Michael Shusko has created an action-packed thriller centred on Lee, Emma, and Manny who strongly doubt the first theories of Jawad's death. It is a compelling read that drew me in after a few pages into the story. Michael Shusko paints a clear picture of the characters' minds while the story evolves. The main characters - good guys and bad guys alike - are complex, the other characters are described as required; you learn enough about them as well. The story comprises interesting turns, and has a good flow.
This is a book for you if you like fast-paced thrillers, chilling moments, insights in a criminal mind, and if you like believable characters with a mission.
Recommended.
With Vector, Michael Shusko has created an action-packed thriller centred on Lee, Emma, and Manny who strongly doubt the first theories of Jawad's death. It is a compelling read that drew me in after a few pages into the story. Michael Shusko paints a clear picture of the characters' minds while the story evolves. The main characters - good guys and bad guys alike - are complex, the other characters are described as required; you learn enough about them as well. The story comprises interesting turns, and has a good flow.
This is a book for you if you like fast-paced thrillers, chilling moments, insights in a criminal mind, and if you like believable characters with a mission.
Recommended.
February 10, 2017
Well, I don't certainly read a book from this genre, surprisingly I loved it!
It is a mixture-blend of two genres namely military and medical which are beautifully described side by side. I liked the idea of the toxicology used here. The vivid description of the toxins helped a reader to understand the situation better. Though at some places things were kind of hasty but it came back appreciatively.
Out of the two main characters I loved Emma the most. I liked her far thinking. She was always one step ahead of the other. Even a slightest clue was enough for her to decipher the case in hand, as long as medical is concerned.
It is amazing for a debut novel. Surely a worth read.
It is a mixture-blend of two genres namely military and medical which are beautifully described side by side. I liked the idea of the toxicology used here. The vivid description of the toxins helped a reader to understand the situation better. Though at some places things were kind of hasty but it came back appreciatively.
Out of the two main characters I loved Emma the most. I liked her far thinking. She was always one step ahead of the other. Even a slightest clue was enough for her to decipher the case in hand, as long as medical is concerned.
It is amazing for a debut novel. Surely a worth read.
January 5, 2024
Full disclosure, I worked for the author at one time. I had PCS'd to another command by the time I read this book and I had no idea he had written books at the time I worked for him. If you are interested in military and or law enforcement, medical mystery, international thriller books, this is the book for you! Anyone science minded who follows current events will love the way Dr. Shusko tells a realistic, scary tale filled with excitement, adventure, and close calls. I think this book would make a great movie.
December 30, 2016
A new hybrid genre emerges
Loved this debut thriller from Michael Shusko! It appears that we have a new sub-genre in thrillers – the military medical thriller. I enjoyed the plot twists, the character development was excellent, and Lee and Emma make a great team - DHS agent and MD scientist. Looking forward to many additional installments in this series. It's gotten off to a great start!
Loved this debut thriller from Michael Shusko! It appears that we have a new sub-genre in thrillers – the military medical thriller. I enjoyed the plot twists, the character development was excellent, and Lee and Emma make a great team - DHS agent and MD scientist. Looking forward to many additional installments in this series. It's gotten off to a great start!
January 28, 2017
Great Details - Solid Writing
The author makes use of his extensive experience, medical and public health credentials to write a compelling novel, one that is frightening in its authenticity.
For those who enjoy a good thriller that is well-documented and well-paced, this is one you'll want to read. I took a chance in purchasing it and was rewarded with a great read.
The author makes use of his extensive experience, medical and public health credentials to write a compelling novel, one that is frightening in its authenticity.
For those who enjoy a good thriller that is well-documented and well-paced, this is one you'll want to read. I took a chance in purchasing it and was rewarded with a great read.
November 29, 2016
Incredible read! On the edge of my seat throughout.
April 6, 2018
Boston, MA. Massachusetts General Hospital ER Dr. Jawad Khattib (25+, Egyptian, molecular biologist) collapsed on the floor.
Arabian Café. Alexandria, VA. DHS Agent Lee Jansen (Counterterrorism, UCLA, retired USMC, Iraq, Afghanistan) & DHS Agent Tyrone “T-Bone” James (NOC task force commander) had been keeping a close eye on Jawad.
The National Cyber Security Center NCSC) had showed an increase in computer chat between Abdullah al-Harbi (al-Qaeda Sr. leader) & bin Talal (Pakistan-Yeman).
BOOM! A shotgun blast from a Cadillac Escalade had killed T-Bone.
Paul Holder (pediatric intensivist) had called Dr. Emma Hess (toxicologist, board certified internal, occupational, environmental medicine, Professor, Colombia U, PhD Harvard U) about Alisha Washington (3).
Mrs. Sheila Collins (grandmother) & he were very concerned she didn’t seem to be getting much better.
Dr. Rick Caruthers (PhD, environmental research, Harvard occupational & environmental health director, Emma’s supervisor) informed Dr. Hess that Jawad had radiation poisoning that lead to Abrus precatorius (abrin intoxication).
The Architect is very concerned about the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They want to know why Jawad died.
The Order would not tolerate any more screwups.
DHS Director of Counterintelligence Jay Kowalski, assigned DHS Agent Erik Kaiser (MS; linguistics) to investigate T-Bone’s death.
DHS Agent Jansen & Dr. Hess are trying to piece the puzzle together.
New Hampshire The Architect informed everyone the remaining Project Astrea were being sent back to him.
Dr. Philip Peters (aka Architect, Astrea Laboratories director) had injected DHS Agent Erik Kaiser (escort) & Dr. Emma Hess (Harvard Professor; PhD, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health) insisted on the antidote.
Dr. Arjun Singh (son, PhD; organic chemistry) would also be released.
Dr. Peters & Bruno Strozza took off.
Lee was in the hospital barely alive. He was also given the antidote.
Manhattan, NY. A secret meeting of the 10 (sacred leadership of the Order) was held.
Richard Becker was in charge of purchasing mass quantities of prisoners from warlords & terrorist groups.
Nora Becker was the gatekeeper of them all.
She was also in charge of the canisters.
Will the Architect & his cohort be brought to justice?
Will the Project Astrea finally be dismantled?
Hooah to you, thanks for serving our country. Very impressive resume.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written international medical thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great international medical thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; EBookStage; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Arabian Café. Alexandria, VA. DHS Agent Lee Jansen (Counterterrorism, UCLA, retired USMC, Iraq, Afghanistan) & DHS Agent Tyrone “T-Bone” James (NOC task force commander) had been keeping a close eye on Jawad.
The National Cyber Security Center NCSC) had showed an increase in computer chat between Abdullah al-Harbi (al-Qaeda Sr. leader) & bin Talal (Pakistan-Yeman).
BOOM! A shotgun blast from a Cadillac Escalade had killed T-Bone.
Paul Holder (pediatric intensivist) had called Dr. Emma Hess (toxicologist, board certified internal, occupational, environmental medicine, Professor, Colombia U, PhD Harvard U) about Alisha Washington (3).
Mrs. Sheila Collins (grandmother) & he were very concerned she didn’t seem to be getting much better.
Dr. Rick Caruthers (PhD, environmental research, Harvard occupational & environmental health director, Emma’s supervisor) informed Dr. Hess that Jawad had radiation poisoning that lead to Abrus precatorius (abrin intoxication).
The Architect is very concerned about the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They want to know why Jawad died.
The Order would not tolerate any more screwups.
DHS Director of Counterintelligence Jay Kowalski, assigned DHS Agent Erik Kaiser (MS; linguistics) to investigate T-Bone’s death.
DHS Agent Jansen & Dr. Hess are trying to piece the puzzle together.
New Hampshire The Architect informed everyone the remaining Project Astrea were being sent back to him.
Dr. Philip Peters (aka Architect, Astrea Laboratories director) had injected DHS Agent Erik Kaiser (escort) & Dr. Emma Hess (Harvard Professor; PhD, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health) insisted on the antidote.
Dr. Arjun Singh (son, PhD; organic chemistry) would also be released.
Dr. Peters & Bruno Strozza took off.
Lee was in the hospital barely alive. He was also given the antidote.
Manhattan, NY. A secret meeting of the 10 (sacred leadership of the Order) was held.
Richard Becker was in charge of purchasing mass quantities of prisoners from warlords & terrorist groups.
Nora Becker was the gatekeeper of them all.
She was also in charge of the canisters.
Will the Architect & his cohort be brought to justice?
Will the Project Astrea finally be dismantled?
Hooah to you, thanks for serving our country. Very impressive resume.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written international medical thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great international medical thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; EBookStage; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 19, 2018
Vector: Tradecraft Phase Zero is the first book in the Tradecraft series. You can read this as a standalone. There is violence. This story could be ripped out of today's headlines. As we continue to make advances in science, this storyline could easily happen. While on the surface the genetic manipulation could cure diseases, that same scientific advancement could be turned around to be used as a weapon. It all depends on whose hands that science is in. This book has enough action and twists and turns to keep you guessing. It also has a lot of medical and scientific terminology, but the author does a good job of explaining much of it for us lay people to understand. I definitely recommend this book.
December 5, 2017
The Order, led by the Architect, is building a biochemical weapon that will target specific ethnic groups. A DHS agent, a doctor that is a former army Ranger, and a doctor specializing in toxicology are the only people that can stop this group from world domination. A lot of action and some plot twists keep this a page turner.
January 21, 2018
Great thriller
If you like thrillers this book is for you. It has everything. There are several characters who are well defined. The plot has plenty of shifts and turns. With the writer,'s background it is made believable.
If you like thrillers this book is for you. It has everything. There are several characters who are well defined. The plot has plenty of shifts and turns. With the writer,'s background it is made believable.
January 27, 2018
Great story!
I would recommend this book to those readers who like suspense, medical, and military all mixed in.
I strongly recommend this book
I would recommend this book to those readers who like suspense, medical, and military all mixed in.
I strongly recommend this book
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews