What do you think?
Rate this book
The Broken Code
Dr Alisha Venkatesh faces death every day. Why shouldn't she? She is an intensivist working in the ICU. This does not prepare her for the near death situations of the two most important people in her life. For Alisha, technology is like her second hobby. First being medicine. She is a great advocate for using tech to solve the world’s health puzzle. A problem created by the system being broken at multiple places and in multiple ways. She also knows the dangers that technology presents. Alisha must use all her life's learning to deal with an enemy who works right beside her. Using her medical and IT knowledge to track and decipher patterns that the dark side has camouflaged. Her analytical skills lead her to a theory which no one could have imagined being possible. Not at least at the current stage of human tech advancement. Despite having to deal with her own emotions Alisha works with the two New York detectives Nick & his friend Miguel. Amidst all this personal conflict for Alisha stands the nefarious designs of a colleague she has worked with. He is an equal in thinking and intelligence to her. He is ruthless as he leaves a series of bodies to eliminate his tracks. Including that of his lover. Only to be undone by a woman 'fumbling' her way to break his secret designs.
Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2022
1 person is currently reading
9 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 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 12, 2023
An electrifying story
This is a fast paced and sensational ride into a world where a serendipitous idea went too far. If technology gets in the wrong hands, there is no telling how far one would go to profit from it.
While the main protagonists, Nick and Alisha, deal with their personal connection, a much sinister plot thickens in the forefront. The setting is modern and takes place in US. I found the narrative very inclusive and expansive in terms of incorporating a wider cast.
Without giving away much I would recommend you read this articulate tale of cyber crime and see how the plot unfolds.
Now for the author's writing style... I felt connected to the characters as it was written in a gripping manner that flipped back and forth from their personal lives to the main theme. The individual drama was given enough focus keeping the excitement of the deep woven foul play at hand alive. I appreciated how the author has skillfully blended the medical breadth with the IT sphere.
It is a great read for mystery and thriller enthusiast. I highly recommend this one!
This is a fast paced and sensational ride into a world where a serendipitous idea went too far. If technology gets in the wrong hands, there is no telling how far one would go to profit from it.
While the main protagonists, Nick and Alisha, deal with their personal connection, a much sinister plot thickens in the forefront. The setting is modern and takes place in US. I found the narrative very inclusive and expansive in terms of incorporating a wider cast.
Without giving away much I would recommend you read this articulate tale of cyber crime and see how the plot unfolds.
Now for the author's writing style... I felt connected to the characters as it was written in a gripping manner that flipped back and forth from their personal lives to the main theme. The individual drama was given enough focus keeping the excitement of the deep woven foul play at hand alive. I appreciated how the author has skillfully blended the medical breadth with the IT sphere.
It is a great read for mystery and thriller enthusiast. I highly recommend this one!
February 2, 2019
The cover is great and I was happy to see that the print is large and easy to read.
The Broken Code is a good debut - the story line is intriguing and imaginative.
The author uses first person, with dual point-of-view, which allows the story to develop through the very different perspectives of the two main protagonists. At the start, I found it a little distracting because it entailed a switch for me as well. Happily, the author has indicated, through the chapter title, whose perspective it is and the switch became comfortable after a bit.
The suspense - which is the chief ingredient of this book and is the element that kept this reader hooked - is augmented with a romance and a believable conflict between Alisha and Nick that keeps the story flowing along nicely.
The story could have benefited from some expert editing to make it crisper and error-free, but even so is an enjoyable read. Here's hoping for more from this promising new author.
The Broken Code is a good debut - the story line is intriguing and imaginative.
The author uses first person, with dual point-of-view, which allows the story to develop through the very different perspectives of the two main protagonists. At the start, I found it a little distracting because it entailed a switch for me as well. Happily, the author has indicated, through the chapter title, whose perspective it is and the switch became comfortable after a bit.
The suspense - which is the chief ingredient of this book and is the element that kept this reader hooked - is augmented with a romance and a believable conflict between Alisha and Nick that keeps the story flowing along nicely.
The story could have benefited from some expert editing to make it crisper and error-free, but even so is an enjoyable read. Here's hoping for more from this promising new author.
January 23, 2019
Anmol noticed a man in black clothes leaning over Nanna body.
Alexi was told Anmol was not to be harmed.
NYC. Dr. Alisha Venkatesh (ICU, narrator, former Bronx Science), & Jim (IT head) were discussing the Cyber-attack that targeted the UK National Health Service.
The malware attack had taken down the entire server.
Cyber security experts from ONICON helped get it back up/running again.
Sentinel Hospital ER. Helen (patient) had been found unconscious.
Laura (wife/mother, Nick’s sister, Helen’s daughter) was told what the procedures that were going to be done.
Dr. Lewis (Deputy Neurology head) was on duty.
Dr. Venkatesh, & Anmol “Nick” (11) were enjoying the meal together.
Detective Nicholas “Nick” Rosling (son/brother), & Detective Miguel (partner) were back on duty.
Jenny had to call Dr. Venkatesh to come in.
The nanny got Anmol off to school.
Captain Joel Garner asked Detective Rosling, & Detective Miguel how the investigation on the ONICON murders was going?
ER. Nick was bleeding like stuck hog & his vitals didn’t look good.
Detective Miguel was by his side.
The programmed the ventilator had difficulty maintaining his oxygen levels.
Dr. Lawrence was trying to calm Dr. Venkatesh down.
Cleveland Lakeview Hospital (biomedical research center). Dr. Venkatesh met with Dr. Lisa Davis. She/several of her collogues do studies on sleep.
Metropolitan Institute. Dr. Venkatesh next met with Dr. Leonard.
Matterhorn hospital. Dr. Simon (neurologist) was on her list.
All these facilities there were system shutdowns caused by a cyberattack.
Fast forward, someone had kidnapped Anmol (11).
Will the kidnapper be caught & brought to justice?
Will the cybercrimes be solved, & someone brought to justice?
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. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written cybercrime 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 cybercrime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just ok for me so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Educreation Publishing; Author; PDF, Word book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
Alexi was told Anmol was not to be harmed.
NYC. Dr. Alisha Venkatesh (ICU, narrator, former Bronx Science), & Jim (IT head) were discussing the Cyber-attack that targeted the UK National Health Service.
The malware attack had taken down the entire server.
Cyber security experts from ONICON helped get it back up/running again.
Sentinel Hospital ER. Helen (patient) had been found unconscious.
Laura (wife/mother, Nick’s sister, Helen’s daughter) was told what the procedures that were going to be done.
Dr. Lewis (Deputy Neurology head) was on duty.
Dr. Venkatesh, & Anmol “Nick” (11) were enjoying the meal together.
Detective Nicholas “Nick” Rosling (son/brother), & Detective Miguel (partner) were back on duty.
Jenny had to call Dr. Venkatesh to come in.
The nanny got Anmol off to school.
Captain Joel Garner asked Detective Rosling, & Detective Miguel how the investigation on the ONICON murders was going?
ER. Nick was bleeding like stuck hog & his vitals didn’t look good.
Detective Miguel was by his side.
The programmed the ventilator had difficulty maintaining his oxygen levels.
Dr. Lawrence was trying to calm Dr. Venkatesh down.
Cleveland Lakeview Hospital (biomedical research center). Dr. Venkatesh met with Dr. Lisa Davis. She/several of her collogues do studies on sleep.
Metropolitan Institute. Dr. Venkatesh next met with Dr. Leonard.
Matterhorn hospital. Dr. Simon (neurologist) was on her list.
All these facilities there were system shutdowns caused by a cyberattack.
Fast forward, someone had kidnapped Anmol (11).
Will the kidnapper be caught & brought to justice?
Will the cybercrimes be solved, & someone brought to justice?
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. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written cybercrime 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 cybercrime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just ok for me so I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Educreation Publishing; Author; PDF, Word book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
October 17, 2019
The Broken Code by Ashish Rastogi An engaging Cyber-crime thriller and romance.
The thrill and suspense unfold right in the first chapter and perpetuate till the end. The romance blends naturally into the narrative and generates curiosity around the break-up between Alisha and Nick. The curiosity tantalizingly lingers for the best part of narrative.
Alisha's character is distinct and inspiring. The way Alisha deals with challenges as single unwed mother, leave you inspired. The narrative engagingly captures Alisha's emotional and professional trials and tribulations.
Equally, the narrative does justice to the guilt ridden character of Nick, Alisha's remorseful lover. The story is a telling comment on enormity of implications for Healthcare in case of cyber attack.
The thrill and suspense unfold right in the first chapter and perpetuate till the end. The romance blends naturally into the narrative and generates curiosity around the break-up between Alisha and Nick. The curiosity tantalizingly lingers for the best part of narrative.
Alisha's character is distinct and inspiring. The way Alisha deals with challenges as single unwed mother, leave you inspired. The narrative engagingly captures Alisha's emotional and professional trials and tribulations.
Equally, the narrative does justice to the guilt ridden character of Nick, Alisha's remorseful lover. The story is a telling comment on enormity of implications for Healthcare in case of cyber attack.
March 13, 2019
This medical thriller was a good and delightful read for me. The story shows how in today's world something as innocuous as data can be used as a weapon and trigger a massive breakdown in today's society.
The story progresses with Alisha as tries put together the clues along with Nick and Miguel and team and link unrelated murders and find out why data theft and hacking was taking place without any ransom demand. Also along the way Alisha and Nick have to resolve their differences and work out a way for their son Anmol and also find him after he is kidnapped.
The story has a good pace and there are not many dull moments in the story. The end is convincingly built and the personal backstory is nicely handled.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story progresses with Alisha as tries put together the clues along with Nick and Miguel and team and link unrelated murders and find out why data theft and hacking was taking place without any ransom demand. Also along the way Alisha and Nick have to resolve their differences and work out a way for their son Anmol and also find him after he is kidnapped.
The story has a good pace and there are not many dull moments in the story. The end is convincingly built and the personal backstory is nicely handled.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2019
Very well etched out characters who all have their own intersting personalities. The love story between the two protagonists feel very beautiful and genuine. It should be one of the very strong points of the story. The technical details involving both medicine and technology have been handled very well. It seems the author spent a lot of time working on the details. Kudos to the author for bring out such a gem of a story. It does not seem like a story written by a first time author. Looking forward to more titles in future including a possible Broken Code 2.0
May 10, 2023
Rastogi’s book is a page-turner that I couldn’t put down. He does a masterful job weaving the backstory of Dr. Alisha & Det. Nick into the plot as they work to solve the mystery. There’s also a completely unexpected twist at the end. HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book!!
December 21, 2023
A good read
I found this book interesting all along. The Author has narrated the hospital life really well and the tension b/w Alisha and Nick and their emotions are fused into the story in a way that keeps the pages intriguing.
I found this book interesting all along. The Author has narrated the hospital life really well and the tension b/w Alisha and Nick and their emotions are fused into the story in a way that keeps the pages intriguing.
January 31, 2019
Very interesting book to read...Never used to read books but..The story...And the simple language. To understand The plot is so gud...That I complete reading of this book in 2 days...gr88888
September 8, 2019
An intriguing must read for an intellectual 🤓 romantics. Suspense and thrill makes it difficult to keep it down .
February 17, 2020
A Jumbled Confusion Riddled with Errors
I like to start my book reviews with a brief summary of the first 25% or so of the book and then further the rest of the plot in generalities (not wanting to give spoilers), discuss writing technique, and general thoughts.
I find myself at a loss as to how to sum up this book. The first 15% simply related a few days in the life of an ICU doctor. Not much seemed to relate to the opening scene (which was different), and I couldn't really get many clues about where the book was heading. It is a hodge-podge, not quite sure if it a second-chance romance, a thriller, based on conspiracies, cyber attacks, sleeper cells, etc., etc. It would take a skillful hand to pull all these seemingly disparate things together, and that just didn't happen here. Even getting to the end, I couldn't make much sense of it.
I was intrigued by the book because it was written by a doctor, and I am a nurse. While some medical stuff seemed accurate, much of what went on in the hospital didn't ring true from what I know from my two years as a bedside nurse. Some of Dr. Alisha's thoughts and terminology seemed very much unlike a physician. Some medical jargon and slang she used were words and phrases I'd never heard actual doctors and nurses use. Dr. Alisha's actions and reactions didn't seem appropriate and/or professional at times, either.
The book was hard to read, also, from a mechanical perspective. There were many bizarre grammar and usage errors throughout the book. (Like random periods in the middle of sentences.) About 20% in, we learn it takes place in New York, but nothing about the setting seemed particularly American. (Elevators were even called lifts!) Dialogue is stilted and unnatural. I don't know if an editor touched this manuscript at all, but it could have used at least a developmental editor and a copyeditor to make it readable and enjoyable.
I felt I learned more about what the book was about from reading its description on Amazon than reading the book itself.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I like to start my book reviews with a brief summary of the first 25% or so of the book and then further the rest of the plot in generalities (not wanting to give spoilers), discuss writing technique, and general thoughts.
I find myself at a loss as to how to sum up this book. The first 15% simply related a few days in the life of an ICU doctor. Not much seemed to relate to the opening scene (which was different), and I couldn't really get many clues about where the book was heading. It is a hodge-podge, not quite sure if it a second-chance romance, a thriller, based on conspiracies, cyber attacks, sleeper cells, etc., etc. It would take a skillful hand to pull all these seemingly disparate things together, and that just didn't happen here. Even getting to the end, I couldn't make much sense of it.
I was intrigued by the book because it was written by a doctor, and I am a nurse. While some medical stuff seemed accurate, much of what went on in the hospital didn't ring true from what I know from my two years as a bedside nurse. Some of Dr. Alisha's thoughts and terminology seemed very much unlike a physician. Some medical jargon and slang she used were words and phrases I'd never heard actual doctors and nurses use. Dr. Alisha's actions and reactions didn't seem appropriate and/or professional at times, either.
The book was hard to read, also, from a mechanical perspective. There were many bizarre grammar and usage errors throughout the book. (Like random periods in the middle of sentences.) About 20% in, we learn it takes place in New York, but nothing about the setting seemed particularly American. (Elevators were even called lifts!) Dialogue is stilted and unnatural. I don't know if an editor touched this manuscript at all, but it could have used at least a developmental editor and a copyeditor to make it readable and enjoyable.
I felt I learned more about what the book was about from reading its description on Amazon than reading the book itself.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
December 21, 2020
It’s a thriller but there is also a live story ongoing in the background.
There are multiple notions coupled in one story, being a single mother, giving second chances, psychological impact due to childhood trauma, and descriptive medical terms easy for a non-medical person to understand.
The ICU scene was relatable for me as I have recently lost my mom and it just reminded me of all that we went through in the dreaded day. The emotions were so well placed.
To read more reviews visit my blog https://penitratherkeyit.com/category...
There are multiple notions coupled in one story, being a single mother, giving second chances, psychological impact due to childhood trauma, and descriptive medical terms easy for a non-medical person to understand.
The ICU scene was relatable for me as I have recently lost my mom and it just reminded me of all that we went through in the dreaded day. The emotions were so well placed.
To read more reviews visit my blog https://penitratherkeyit.com/category...
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews