The Athena Project: A Thriller (Thorndike Press Large Print Basic Series)

Many readers found this book to be a fast-paced and exciting action thriller, offering a compelling story with edge-of-your-seat thrills and gun battles. The premise of an all-female Delta Force team, the "Athena Project," was seen as intriguing and a refreshing take on the genre, with many appreciating the portrayal of strong, capable women who are just as skilled and formidable as their male counterparts. The inclusion of "weird Nazi science" or paranormal ideas, which the author claims are based on reality, was noted as a fascinating and engaging sci-fi element that added an interesting layer to the plot. Some reviewers felt it was a significant improvement over previous books by the author, focusing more on plot and interesting action sequences rather than gratuitous violence.

However, numerous criticisms were raised, particularly regarding character development. Many found the female operatives to be unidimensional, cliched, and indistinguishable from one another, often referred to by various names which caused confusion. Reviewers struggled to form an emotional connection with them, noting a lack of depth, emotion, or individual personality. The plot itself was frequently described as confusing, contrived, and lacking plausibility, especially concerning the "secret Nazi technology" which some found comical and too fantastical, undermining the author's claim of a realistic basis. Specific instances of lazy writing were cited, such as unrealistic security breaches and the women effortlessly overcoming formidable adversaries without tactical depth or suffering any injuries. Additionally, some readers were put off by what they perceived as a sexist portrayal of the female characters, who sometimes relied on sex appeal, engaged in juvenile banter, or were depicted with dialogue resembling male locker room talk. Concerns were also raised about excessive foul language and graphic sexual references.

In conclusion, this book appears to be a divisive read. While some considered it a highly entertaining and escapist action novel, others found it to be a disappointing and poorly executed spin-off. It seems best suited for readers who enjoy fast-paced, "mindless" action thrillers with a high body count and a speculative sci-fi element, and who prioritize an exciting plot over deep character development or strict realism. Fans of the author's previous works looking for a quick, action-packed read featuring strong female protagonists might enjoy it, provided they are prepared for a less nuanced approach to characters and a plot that stretches the bounds of credibility. However, those seeking intricate plotting, realistic character portrayals, or a more serious tone might find it falls short.