The Shiva Syndrome Trilogy: The Mind of Stefan Dürr, the Cosmic Ape, and the Interdimensional Nexus

The SHIVA Syndrome #1-3

by Alan Joshua

More than a scientist, more than the offspring of a Mohawk--African American marriage--and far more than human, Beau Walker holds the key to human evolution…and its annihilation. A disgraced researcher, Walker is snatched by the military and forced to join a U.S./Russian scientific team, searching for the cause of the disaster. Beginning with a terrifying descent into the mile-deep Russian crater where he finds an American astronaut's arm, he is hurled into the worlds of advanced biotechnology, biowarfare, paranormal research, and military intrigue.
The stakes are unimaginable: Find and control the cause of the events or face planet-wide obliteration.
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Dr. Stanley Krippner, internationally known parapsychologist, writes:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A remarkable book!
After a Russian mind-research project opens a black hole in a Moscow suburb, researcher Beau Walker is coerced into joining the ensuing investigation. He soon realizes that anomalies worldwide–including the loss of an American space shuttle and a bizarre personal experience–coincided with the Podol’sk singularity. As events escalate, Walker embarks on an epic journey to come to terms with his personal demons, even as he struggles to save humanity from itself.

In The SHIVA Syndrome Trilogy (by Alan Joshua), the author (a clinical psychologist) skillfully and ingeniously interweaves altered states of consciousness and parapsychology with genetics, paleontology, mythology, and religion to produce a frightening, brisk, and film-worthy story building to an intense climax. The story challenges conventional notions of reality, ultimately concluding that human consciousness extends well beyond the flesh–and offers enormous potential for both creation and destruction.
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Amazon:
Feb 27, 2019 Sherry rated it it was amazing
The Shiva Syndrome Trilogy is destined to become a sci-fi classic. The excitement never lets up and it would take years to fact check all of the information it contains. The scope of the story reveals a lifetime of research and deep thought. It spans almost every hard scientific field and delves into psychology, anthropology, religion and the paranormal. Alan Joshua’s rich and grounded imagination manages to connect all of these seemingly disparate systems into a thought provoking unity of human experience. The writing is totally engaging and the sustained intensity makes it hard to put down, except to catch your breath.
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KIRKUS REVIEW: "Deft dialogue, crisp plotting, and a likable central figure make this multidisciplinary scientific adventure an exuberant and involving read."

PORTLAND BOOK REVIEW: "Having the right amount of adventure and romance, this crisscrossing genre tale isn't just a good read, but may also look great on a big screen."

MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW: "Highly recommended, indeed; especially for thriller and sci-fi readers who have become deluged with too much predictability and who seek cutting-edge action, believable protagonists, and action that is solidly intense throughout."

IND'TALE MAGAZINE: "a riveting, page-turner, right from the start!"

PHENOMENA MAGAZINE: "Well plotted and written, this is an absolute thrill ride of a book that is almost impossible to put down: it might also cause the reader to wonder what really does go on (MK-Ultra for example) in some of the secret government laboratories dotted around the world."

Amazon and Goodreads Readers:
"The Shiva Syndrome is in the top 10 books of the best sci-fi/fantasy books I have read in over 40 years and I read over 200 books a year!"

"Let's get straight to the point: The SHIVA Syndrome Trilogy is one of the best-written stories I've read in years."

"I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a science fiction journey that is so well researched that it truly could be happening right now! This was one book that caused me to rethink what happens behind closed doors."

Genres: Paranormal, Science Fiction, Fantasy

828 pages, ebook

First published April 6, 2017

About the author

Alan Joshua (pen name) is a clinical psychologist who has published nonfiction journal articles and book chapters.
The SHIVA Syndrome Trilogy is a prize-winning science fiction/paranormal thriller incorporating his paranormal research and experiences with healers, intuitives, so-called psychic sensitives, etc.

A mind research experiment studying human consciousness goes horrifyingly wrong. Thousands are killed when a Russian suburb is mysteriously destroyed, leaving a mile-deep crater in its place. At the same time, a U.S. space shuttle vaporizes in orbit, and a Canadian mountaintop is ripped away. One thing lies behind it all: The mind of Stefan Dürr. Existence is dreary hell for Dr. Beau Walker. An embittered loner, he sleepwalks through life until the government virtually kidnaps him, hurling him into an incredibly menacing adventure beyond his wildest imaginings. Coerced into joining a U.S./Russian scientific team, Beau searches for the cause of the disasters. Beginning with a treacherous, life-threatening exploration of the anomalous crater, where scientific laws don’t seem to apply, he's thrown into a world of unimaginable advanced biotechnology, biowarfare, genetics, paranormal research, and military intrigue. The stakes are inconceivably high: Find and control the cause...or face worldwide annihilation.

“A thrilling read” New Consciousness Review “Having the right amount of adventure and romance, this crisscrossing genre tale isn’t just a good read, but may also look great on a big screen.” Portland Book Review
“…the book mixes uncommon palettes and manages a masterpiece with it. It is a surprising, suspenseful, and utterly superb read from start to end.” Self-Publishing Review
“…highly recommended, indeed; especially for thriller and sci-fi readers who have become deluged with too much predictability and who seek cutting-edge action, believable protagonists, and action that is solidly intense throughout.” Midwest Book Review
“Deft dialogue, crisp plotting, and a likable central figure make this multidisciplinary scientific adventure an exuberant and involving read.” Kirkus Review

Goodreads Readers:
"In the top 10 books of the best sci-fi/fantasy books I have read in over 40 years and I read over 200 books a year!"
"a riveting, page-turner, right from the start!"
"Awesome, awesome, totally Awesome!!!"
"Not your typical Sci-fi thriller...One of the best books of 2015"
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EPIC (Electronic Publishing Internet Coalition) 2016 eBook science fiction finalist.
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International Book Awards: Award-winning finalist in Science Fiction for 2016
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Bookvana Awards: Finalist in Visionary Fiction
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Readers Favorite: Honorable Mention in Paranormal Fiction 2016
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Alan Joshua is a psychologist, parapsychologist, and author.

Reviews

[Maureen · Rating 3 out of 5]

With echoes of 'The Celestine Prophecy', this book crosses over three genres - thriller, sci-fi, and the paranormal. I can't pretend to understand the scientific terminology used, but the research needed to create this story must have been phenomenal. I not only found it difficult to understand the science behind it though, but also the concepts. There were chapters when I was blown away by the complexity of the storyline, and others where I was just a little irritated. That said, it WAS an intense read, and it certainly meant I was determined to see it through to its conclusion (and boy, it was a completely surreal conclusion to this clever and complex book).

* Thank you to Netgalley and Champagne publishing for my ARC, for which I have given an honest and unbiased review*

[Laura Mirian · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shiva Syndrome

By

Alan Joshua

I practice Kriya Yoga and know that Shiva is one of the Hindu Gods. Shiva "the Auspicious One" is part of the trinity or trimurti as "the destroyer" along with Vishnu as "the Preserver" and Brahma as "the Creator".

I was curious regarding the role that Shiva had in the book and the meaning of the Shiva Syndrome. I had no idea what a wonderful journey I would take by reviewing the text and I must say I was thrilled to have the experience.

The book is a wonderful blend of scientific intrigue, science fiction, military mayhem, psychic phenomena, and anthropological adventure. The author spun a fantastic tale with a great group of characters. I was impressed with the relationship and interactions between and amongst the characters as the story unfolded. The Prologue sets the stage for an auspicious adventure that gets “curiouser and curiouser”.
Laura E. Mirian

[Montzalee Wittmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shiva Syndrome is in the top 10 books of the best sci-fi/fantasy books I have read in over 40 years and I read over 200 books a year! It has everything I love in a sci-fi and fantasy in one book and makes it flow seamlessly and naturally. The books has empaths, ESP, black holes, black op government cover-ups - generic engineering, teleporting, telekinesis, time travel, out of body travel, inter-dimensional travel, parallel universes, and so much more yet it is written is such a way that all seems plausible and believable. Very scientific, very mystic, very action packed, edge of your seat, who is who, and who is WHAT action. This is a book for any sci-fi fan! I hope a director like Steven Spielberg , James Cameron, or any other great sci-fi director will read this book because this is worthy of a movie! The plot is full of surprises and fast moving with lots of twists and turns. The characters are well developed and complex. There is no putting this book in a certain category, it stands by itself. It is thought provoking and intriguing. Don't miss out. I reviewed this book for NetGalley and I am so glad I had the chance or I might not have picked it up, don't miss out!

[AnnaM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Professor Beau Walker, a former government parapsychologist and now professional pariah gets strong-armed into a race to solve the ultimate mystery of the nature of reality, the outcome of which could either elevate mankind to unseen levels or obliterate it.

An enormous amount of research went into this story. It combines so many sciences I lost track, plus several religions, mythologies, and a diverse cast of unusual characters. The story spans the globe. At every turn things just get worse and the tension ratchets up. There is even an undercurrent of a romance, which adds depth to a pair of the characters.

The writing is good, the pace slow and steady as it built to the crescendo. I liked Walker, the main character, immediately and empathized with him, cheered him on, and cried for him.

This story is one you think about as you go along. It's deep and interesting. Very well done.

***Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this in exchange for an honest review.

[Arlene Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely did not know what to think when I started reading this book. It is all over the place genre wise but flows so well.
Beau walker is persuaded into investigating a laboratory explosion. The investigation does not go how expected. They have to deal with political, paranormal and so many other things. I do not want to go into to much detail but this book is a rollercoaster ride from the first page.
This book pleases more than the paranormal crowd. A great read
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rose Black · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book via a Goodreads competition so many thanks.

This is like nothing I have ever read before! I really enjoyed the crossover of many genres that made up the story, and it was obviously very well researched as shown by the sheer amount of detail that the author goes into. It was very thought provoking, and I liked taking my time to read this, mulling it over and absorbing it all.

An original and intelligent piece of work which left me pleasantly surprised. I would definitely read more from Alan Joshua!

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a thrilling book. A mystery of mind boggling proportions that not everyone is going to figure out. At the crux of this story is a government program that has gone haywire. This, by itself, shouldn’t be anything new, but the problem with this program going bad, is that it could destroy the world.

The start of the book reminds me of “The Andromeda Strain”. Our main character, Dr. Beaufort Walker, “Beau” for short, is recalled by his former boss to come work on a highly secret program. This is the same boss that not too long ago, fired Beau and practically ruined his professional career.

Anyway, his former boss sends some Marines to bring Beau back to work, but they don’t exactly have an easy time of it. Beau finally agrees to go with them after which he’s taken to a remote runway where an Navy F-16 Hornet awaits. He’s put into a flight suit and give some preliminary instructions and they take off. The pilot doesn’t know why Beau is being taken to their destination, but he does know that he’s to deliver him from Philadelphia to Randolph AFB, TX (my old stomping grounds).

Once at Randolph, Beau meets his former Boss and they have a “rousing good conversation”. His former boss, Burton Grimes, tells Beau, he needs him for an investigation and a program that he can’t talk about until they get airborne again. Beau decides not to kill Grimes even after Grimes tells him he’s either in or his career, such as it is, is completely dead.

You see, Beau, is a psychologist and he was an Army psychologist for three years. He left that after having some very heated ethical debates with Grimes. Beau is also something else that makes him even more important to Grimes. But, Grimes paints such an interesting and challenging story about what he might be getting into, that Beau eventually accepts. They then board a huge 747 and are off…to Russia!

Ok, now remember that Beau is a psychologist. On the plane he meets with about four or five other people all with Dr. as their first name! I’m not going to list them all or tell you who they are because you’ll get very familiar with each one of them as you read the story. Let's just say, these people are very, very intelligent and the conversations they have can be quite challenging to us with just Mr. or Ms. as our first names.

Still, this story takes some very exciting twists and turns. It is science fiction or at least I hope the majority of it is science fiction, it better be, really, they can’t be dumb enough to be doing this stuff for real, right?

I think most of you will be able to follow the story along pretty well. It gets kind of weird towards the end and you’ll have to really concentrate on what’s going on, but I think you’ll understand if you just read carefully. I know you’re probably going to lose some sleep over this book. Some of the stuff you read about will probably keep you awake, but just remember it’s all science fiction, not real, maybe, mostly!

I liked the book because it did all most sound real. This stuff could be happening somewhere by some group of people. I hope not because it could go wrong and then we wouldn’t be reading anything, ever!

[Floyd Largent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's get straight to the point: The SHIVA Syndrome is one of the best-written stories I've read in years. It's rare to even see a book that combines science fiction and spirituality effectively, especially when the nature of reality is thrown into the mix a a major theme. The last one I can recall being worth reading was Asimov's The Gods Themselves, and to be frank it was a lot less accessible than this book. Not to mention that it's way dated, since it came out in the early 1970s. Some of the shot stories of the sorely-missed James Tiptree, Jr. (actually psychologist Alice Sheldon) comes close, but she's been gone a long time now.

Now, I'm not saying others haven't explored these themes since Asimov and Tiptree, especially the ideas that neuroscience and psychology can shape reality—not just the perception of it, but reality itself. The quantum mechanical "observer effect," in which just watching some scientific experiments seems to affect their outcomes, makes this inevitable. But most authors have tended to avoid mixing mysticism with their science fiction, much less adding in the Clancyesque thriller elements that Alan Joshua includes here. He deserves applause just for trying, and the fact that the result is an easily readable, believable, and above all human ¬story just makes his book all the more praiseworthy. It's a big story (in more ways than one) but I guarantee, once you get into it, it won't last long. You'll gulp it down and go looking for more. That's how good this story is.

I won't spoil the story by describing it here—except to say note that it opens with a subject in a neuroscience experiment opening a black hole with his mind alone in a densely populated suburb of Moscow—and then the action and tension scales up from there. The book is packed full of well-rounded, believable characters, and enough ideas for any ten books. This is a book that you'll want to go back to repeatedly, and while my Kindle edition is sharp and well-produced, I really want a hard copy, too.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The SHIVA Syndrome Trilogy by Alan Joshua is a fascinating technothriller that will pull you in right from the start. Dr. Beau Walker is more than just a college professor. Though he is extremely intelligent, his integrity is a greater part of him. His paranormal abilities set him apart and give him an edge over people and what is going on around him. He may be the only one who can solve the problem of an experiment gone wrong.

With edgy precision, Alan Joshua keeps his readers enthralled. The SHIVA Syndrome Trilogy combines all three of the novels to complete the thrill behind Dr. Beau Walker and his insight and abilities. Though it is a longer read, you want to savor the danger, suspense, and action within its pages. I love the danger that is ever-present as Beau works with a team of scientists. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shiva Syndrome Trilogy is destined to become a sci-fi classic. The excitement never lets up and it would take years to fact check all of the information it contains. The scope of the story reveals a lifetime of research and deep thought. It spans almost every hard scientific field and delves into psychology, anthropology, religion and the paranormal. Alan Joshua’s rich and grounded imagination manages to connect all of these seemingly disparate systems into a thought provoking unity of human experience. The writing is totally engaging and the sustained intensity makes it hard to put down, except to catch your breath.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly an interesting and thought provoking novel. Particularly enjoyed the science and genetics. Characters were well developed and excellent progression. Action packed thriller with side of romance. Certainly can imagine a similar scenario in our world today. Will read any and all from this author. Writing style is just what I like.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

The shiva syndrome trilogy by alan joshua.
Near Moscow, a mind warfare research experiment goes horribly wrong, igniting a chain of inexplicable events. A mysterious black cloud silently obliterates thousands of lives and vaporizes a city, leaving a mile-deep crater.
A very good read. I liked the story bit long but I took my time with it. 4*

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Shiva Syndrome” is a riveting, page-turner, right from the start!

Read full review in the 2016 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Shanell Meek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read with an interesting new concept.

This the first book in The SHIVA Sybdrome Trilogy. I’ll admit I had a hard time getting into this book it isn’t my usual cup of tea but I saw it and thought what the heck, I’ll try it. I’m glad I did. Overall it’s a good read. I was lost in some parts but for the most part I like to think I kept up very well. This is a very long read. It took me about a week to read if off and on and I was reading other books in between. I liked the characters, but would have liked to see deeper character building. But I’m not sure how they would have worked it in with the length of the book already being as long as it already is but could have replaced some unnecessary content. Overall though the story has great potential and I will be looking for book two.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating and thought provoking

I copied sections of this book from the end as reference material for further research. As a fiction story it is entertaining and so well researched. I thoroughly enjoyed it. However the central concept demands more information and research. I have intuitive qualities but am a person of science and evidence and discard my intuition and empathy often. It does create a conflict in myself. I have read about alternative universes/realities, and the combination of science, philosophy, psychology, shamanism and mythology has created a desire in me to explore the ideas further.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this from a Goodreads giveaway. This story was extremely intense and there was a lot going on. It was a really entertaining story though and you can tell the author put a lot of time and research in it. The story was great.

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

The SHIVA Syndrome
Alan Joshua
Champagne Books (2015)
ISBN 9781771551311
Reviewed by Sheri Hoyte for Reader Views (11/15)

Article first published as Book Review: ‘The SHIVA Syndrome’ by Alan Joshua on Blogcritics.


“The SHIVA Syndrome” by Alan Joshua opens inside a secret mind research laboratory in Podol’sk, Russia. When a key experiment suddenly goes awry, the lab explodes, obliterating everything in a one-mile radius, consuming thousands of lives and everything else in its wake in mere seconds; an enormous black crater of total darkness, the only remnants of the disaster.

Dr. Beau Walker, a parapsychologist turned college professor, is pressured into joining the research team that will investigate the event. There’s trouble from the start when Walker finds out the coercion is coming from Dr. Burt Grimes, a former colleague personally responsible for ending Walker’s career and credibility as a research scientist. Not everything is as it seems, as Dr. Walker and the rest of the SHIVA team must push past individual intellectual and spiritual biases, political and military resistance, and other obstacles in the search for answers.

Mythology, spirituality, science, politics, genetics, mind-control, military action, paranormal human activity -there is so much going on in this book! I was absolutely captivated from beginning to end, and by captivated, I mean held hostage, as my life was literally put on hold until I finished reading. Not a fast or easy read by any stretch of the imagination, I’m so glad it was a rainy weekend or I might have felt guilty – maybe.

The writing is impeccable. Theories and facts are well researched and explained with great attention to detail, and straightforward enough for the non-scientific mind. The characters are authentic, well defined and persuasive in their roles. The pace was fast-moving, the plot suspenseful and invigorating. Alan Joshua breathes new life into the sometimes predictable genre of science-fiction. Actually, he doesn’t stop there as the story seems to span across many genres, from sci-fi to fantasy to mystery/thriller, action and adventure, and a small (minute) dose of romance for good measure!

I highly recommend “The SHIVA Syndrome” by Alan Joshua for enthusiasts of all genres, as there is definitely something for everyone in this fascinating story!

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beau Walker is a brilliant psychological researcher with a strong dislike for military authority. He is practically forced onto a military aircraft by Burton Grimes, the source of his dislike. Along with several other eminent scientists, he is taken to what was a secret research facility near Moscow.

Something happened to cause the total destruction of the facility and the nearby town, at the cost of several thousand lives. Whatever the cause, this was not a "normal" explosion. The crater from a normal, even nuclear, explosion would not be still growing. A normal explosion would have blown the nearby trees, outward, not inward. A normal explosion would not create a time warp inside the crater. After investigating the best they can, the group gets back on the plane.

They are taken to a Very Top Secret research facility inside a mountain in the California desert. Experiments are being conducted in parapsychology, with the intention of creating people who can, for instance, set off explosives from a great distance away, or perform cutting-edge genetic engineering, with their minds. That is what the Russian facility was doing. At the exact moment "it" happened, an American nuclear-powered space shuttle in orbit vanished, and several other such anomalies happened all over the world. Back in California, the same complex is conducting research to create extremely lethal toxins (not just "regular" Ebola, but "super" Ebola), and genetically created hybrid super soldiers, with an explosive device implanted in their necks, in case of death.

The group manages to escape, along with Adena, the first psychic test subject, and her two children. Of course, the military will not let them go so easily. On several occasions, the children show that they are the next step in human evolution. The final confrontation takes place in an abandoned town in Nevada.

It is not easy for any author to sustain the reader's interest for almost 500 pages, but this author does an excellent job at it. It covers a number of subjects, from psychology to physiology to government conspiracy to santeria. Much of the book is very technical (the science can get a bit overwhelming), but the last part turns spiritual. This is a gem of a book, and is very much recommended.

[Lawrence Bloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man uses about 10% of his brain. Meditation, belief, will, drugs, sensory deprivation can lead to the other 90%.
Alan Joshua as written a modern day governmental Castenadian conspiracy work that harkens back to Altered States and Men Who Stare at Goats.
Set in modern times where the feelings of the Cold War and secret quasi-goverment research still linger in our memories and our folk lore, his protagonist, Bo Walker struggles to come to terms with his evolutionary inheritance and his personal past. Walker literally strides between worlds, those of his parents, his father a full blood Native American shamen and his mother a African American Evangelical healer. His father' wish is to stay true to his heritage while his mothers is for him to accept Gods will. Bo rejects these wishes and turns to science in order to understand his inner torment.
We find that Bo Walker has a "history" he is trying to escape. Unfortunately, his past catches up with him and we find him all but kidnapped and coersed in to joining an elite team brought together to research and ultimately understand a massive explosion in the back country of what is now the Russian Republic. Hundreds of thousands dead, a crater of emense proportion left, a Space Shuttle destroyed and other simultaneous disasters all point to one conclusion; and how soon will it happen again.
Using past and current science as well as the more earthy holistic and traditional Native healing Alan Joshua weaves a narrative that is speculative, riviting and makes you nod your head acknowledging your hidden feelings about top secret organizations. Well thought out, I was drawn step by fertive step along with Bo from introduction to the final word of the book. A blend of speculative Sci-Fi, Para-Psychological, Philosophical Fantasy this Thriller with Mythologic overtones is a good read, one that had me reading non-stop.
Do I recommend this book? You betcha'.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A secret Russian mind research laboratory explodes in a big way, leaving a mile-deep crater and a host of unanswered questions about what happened - and that's where parapsychologist Beau Walker enters the picture, becoming a reluctant part of a SHIVA investigative team fraught with political tension.

At first glance one would think this to be either a sci-fi saga or perhaps a thriller: technically, that's correct; but it's so much more. Its focus on untapped human potential gone awry in a deadly experiment also lends to its enjoyment by new age readers or any interested in the paranormal - and let's not forget the reader who enjoys political intrigue and a bit of spiritual reflection in their reading.

Few other books cross as many genre lines as The Shiva Syndrome - and few can do it as deftly, logically, and skillfully, as well. Tension is well-done, protagonists are well-drawn, and the juxtaposition of neuroscience, psychology, and political tensions are exquisitely detailed.

There's solid action and adventure to compliment contemplation on the nature of reality itself, which means that thriller readers won't be disappointed by an ethereal dose of inspection while ethereal readers will be drawn in by close encounters and dangerous events.

Lots of action, intriguing concepts, and examinations of belief systems and the greatest opportunity in human history to reshape the world: that's the essence of a powerful saga in The Shiva Syndrome, which is not only highly recommended 'as is', but would translate well to the screen.

It's very highly recommended, indeed; especially for thriller and sci-fi readers who have become deluged with too much predictability and who seek cutting-edge action, believable protagonists, and action that is solidly intense throughout.

[Jason Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be prepared.... Alan Joshua's THE SHIVA SYNDROME isn't a thriller in the typical sense. And that's a good thing. The novel, Joshua's fiction debut, certainly spares no expense in raising the stakes as the protagonist, former Special Forces operative Beau Walker, and his compatriots deal with the unexplained vanishing of a central Russian territory into a man-made black hole singularity. But frankly, that's the least their problems as the book untangles the winding web of new horizon technologies such as tailored genetics and nanotechnology while also exploring such concepts as parapsychology and Jungian ideals of motivation. Joshua puts the question to his readers: What if we achieve an ability to create in ourselves a superhuman level of power but we don't understand anything about our own motivations in doing so? Worthy fodder for a SF thriller that's not afraid of the big questions of writers past.
THE SHIVA SYNDROME sets its standards high and keeps them there throughout the course of the novel. It has a cinematic quality to the narrative, requiring the reader to balance the advancement of the tension with engaging debates about life, the universe and everything. While making for some tough sledding in the early portion of the book, you'll see the fruits in the latter half of the novel as the story, and the world, really begin to burn.
THE SHIVA SYNDROME rewards the reader with a return to intelligent speculative fiction writing in the vein of Crighton, Rollins and Cussler. Ambition, in this case, is made of sterner stuff and in the end and you'll find yourself pondering the ponderables while also dying to find out what's next. A most promising effort by an author to watch.

[Liquid Frost · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book reminds me of The Celestine Prophecy that was popular ages ago. It starts off as a fiction thriller then morphs into an author-driven philosophical positional paper. I found the story entertaining and there was plenty of action to keep the pace jogging along. I also enjoyed some of the various hard science information as well as the speculative fiction. I think the differences between star reviews will be the background of the reader and the debate between "speculative fiction" and "quantifiable science" or more specifically, parapsychology.

The reader must be ready to suspend reality as there are a great many 'convenient circumstances' through the book: information coming at just the right time, speculation that quickly fleshes out a puzzle, etc. Is this uncommon? Absolutely not. We are talking fiction after all. I just found some of the situations forced at times.

Character development - This book has it. Where I found the book confusing at times with the multitude of players being arbitrarily referenced by first or last name in dialogue, there is a cast that has their own strengths and weaknesses. Some evolve greatly, and others develop along the way.

We also have betrayal as well as spiritual development. The book offers some interesting concepts. The premise is spot on. A Russian PSYOPS lab is practically vaporized of the face of the Earth; killing thousands and setting the stage for the adventure. Of course, the US military and its politics are in the fold.

Is sum - entertaining and can be though provoking. I enjoy Sci-Fi; hard and soft science as well as speculative fiction. I found the book being driven to a theory of heightened spiritual evolution vs. theory enhancing a thriller. I was provided a review copy.

[Ashok · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Shiva Syndrome starts off with a bang, then morphs into speculative/ science fiction, with much action and realistic descriptions. Character development is good but the multitude of characters addressed/ referred by first or last names is confusing. The scientific descriptions are interesting, but need to be read again to be understood. All in all, a book to make one think and ponder on what could be, how little we know and how we are mindlessly raping the planet.

His website describes Alan Joshua (pen name) as a Clinical Psychologist with a background in Forensic Psychology and Parapsychology who has published many nonfiction journal articles. The Shiva Syndrome, his debut fiction novel, is a science fiction/paranormal mystery and thriller. His background as the author of various nonfiction journal articles is clear; many of the descriptions are like theses, and could be "dumbed down".

The story comes under various genres, and is great, but there are errors:
…been persona non granta ever since (persona non grata to be used)

“You’re preaching to the choir,” she said, changing her position. “Few scientists believe synchronicity exists. They’d rather ignore it.” (contradictory statement)

When complimentary processes are used in the right… (complementary to be used)

A peer review and multiple readings will reveal if there are any errors of logic and scientific facts.

I thank Juniper Grove Book Solutions and the author Alan Joshua for providing me a free soft copy of The SHIVA Syndrome for an unbiased review.

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given To Me For An Honest Review


The SHIVA Syndrome by Alan Joshua is a real page turner. Once you open this book it will grab you and hold you down tightly and you'll watch those pages turn and turn and turn some more until you reach the last page. Then you won't be sure what your read and you'll just re-open the book and read it again. You may just find a few twists and turns too. Now, be sure sure to put your seatbel on because you will be on the ride of your life while reading this especially while traveling through all those alternate realities. Remember just hold on and don't let go. A Russian mine explodes, kills thousands and leaves a mile deep crater. Beau Walker, a phsychologist is asked to join a research group code named SHIVA. This research leads the research team along with Walker into alternate realities.You just may ride into extraordinary human abilities. After reading this book you just might alter who you have been believing all this time. If you enjoy reading science fiction, mysteries and thrillers then this book is for you. If you don't usually read this type or have never read this type ... I say give it try, you'll love it. This book will make a great addition to your bookshelf and it would also make a great gift to give. I gave this book 5 stars but I wish that I could give it more. This book was a great one to read and I'm glad I did. I look for more by Alan Joshua.

[Kurt Springs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally published on Kurt's Frontier.

Note: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis:

What would happen if human science opened the door to God-like powers of creation and destruction? Would it be a good thing, or would it be like a child playing with his father’s gun?

A Russian city is destroyed when a mind research laboratory implodes, leaving a huge crater and shattered lives in its wake. Yet that is only the beginning. Beau Walker is a psychologist and empath who has been forced into joining a US Military research project that is traveling to Russia to investigate the catastrophe. The investigation leads Walker and the research team into alternate realities, but these realities are only the beginning. SHIVA has been conducting parallel research. Walker must struggle against political and military intrigues, new super soldiers, and his own personal demons before SHIVA brings about destruction on global scale.

Review:

The SHIVA Syndrome was a fascinating read dealing with powers of the mind and genetic manipulation for military purposes. Characters are well developed, and the author pulls the reader in, helping them suspend their disbelief. The story is mostly fast paced, though it does get a little bogged down in technical detail and can seem a bit “preachy.” The novel itself is thought provoking on the consequences and benefits of artificially expanding ESP powers and genetic manipulation.

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shiva Syndrome is one novel readers will enjoy. The exciting tale takes readers on a journey of paranormal activity, a deadly experiment with politics and spiritual tones. A must read for all. Alan Joshua has masterfully crafted a one of a kind novel that will blow readers away. The characters, plot, and magnificent settings, will forever trap readers into this story.

For readers wanting something good that is fresh, completely different but enchanting, then Shiva Syndrome is the novel for you. A secret Russian mind laboratory that Beau Walker, a parapsychologist and reluctant empath, is forced to join. The research project is called, SHIVA. What appears to be a scientific research leads to something neither Walker nor his team can comprehend. This novel, reminded me of the Borne movies with Matt Damon. A fast paced-thriller action that will keep readers turning the pages and wishing for more.

I highly recommend this fascinating tale to every reader. There is no way a readers will every be bored with all of the mystery, intrigue, and adventures waiting for them inside Shiva Syndrome. From the first page and onward readers will be wowed for a long time to come. I enjoyed reading this unique and well written book by Alan Joshua. I am definitely looking forward to the next debut novel by this writer. Overall, I rate Shiva Syndrome a five out of five stars.

[Trang Tran · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent storytelling ! A mix of thriller and science fiction at the same time. The suspense was on point ! I am usually not a big fan of science fiction but I have to admit that this book was really entertaining. Action after action, like in a movie. I would love to see this book on screen !
Beau Walker, a psychologist who finds himself dragged into a research team in Russia, helping the government about a top secret project.
I really don't want to spoil the plot more than that, because it is worth reading from the beginning to the end of the back cover. The storyline was well developed and set. Character development was there also. There are a lot of terminologies that I was wondering if someone who didn't study in those science fields, would they be comfortable while reading it ? It can slow down or interrupt the reading a little bit, but then again, all the characters are scientists and may as well speak like one ! It did mention really interesting themes , studying neurosciences and psychology but on a more spiritual level, finding the motivation behind one's power or what is the boundary in researching human's capacities. The book raises a lot of questions about our future technologies and what would become of it.

Thank you to Alan Joshua for giving me a free copy of this book.
Trang- Book blogger and Reviewer at :
http://bookidote.wordpress.com

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received this book from Good Reads for a review.

The story begins with a young half American Indian, half African American child who has paranormal abilities, utilized by his parents to help heal people. Growing up, he becomes a psychologist, and is recruited, along with several scientists, for a mission to Russia to help the Russians investigate a strange occurrence where an entire town disappears. After some harrowing experiences, the group is transferred to a hidden laboratory in the California mountains, where the government is experimenting with the same kind of project that the Russians where experimenting with when things went haywire. Another project is experimenting in DNA modifications to create hybrids in an attempt to create supper human warriors for the military.

This book is hard to categorize, as it has elements of science fiction, fantasy and religion all rolled up in the same story. It is very well written, and I found that I had a hard time putting it down. I'd highly recommend it.

[Star]

THE SHIVA SYNDROME took a while longer for me to read than normal. It wasn’t because it was scientifically complex, but because of the verbosity. The author switched the references to the characters from first to last name and back again multiple times, which made it difficult to follow who was speaking and to whom. The characters lacked emotional depth and they came across like a bunch of bipolar children. I am a big fan of showing the story through action, interaction, and clear images which let the characters, the setting, and the plot shine. THE SHIVA SYNDROME was a lot of telling, which slowed down the plot and let readers disengage from the story. While I thought the overall message of THE SHIVA SYNDROME was interesting, there is a lot of exposition to wade through for this discovery.

[Bonnye Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

XXX I received a free electronic copy of this novel from Alan Joshua in exchange for a review. Thank you, Mr. Joshua, for sharing your work, with me.

This is quite simply, an extraordinary novel, one I would recommend to any SiFi fan. Set in Russia and the southwestern US, this is a vivid tale that brings together all of the idols and religions of the world into one basic outline of belief that changes your perception of the world. And besides that, it's a great tale that you won't want to miss.

Alan Joshua knows all of our trigger points and exploits them wonderfully, keeping us in a state of anxiety that will not let you put this book down. I have added this author to my must read list.