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Breakthrough #3
Catalyst
In 1984 a doomsday vault was constructed on a remote island in the Arctic Ocean.
Its purpose was to preserve Earth’s genetic history in the event of a global catastrophe.
Now, decades later, a second vault has been uncovered. This one resting where no one ever expected. And the problem is…it’s not ours.
Yet even more curious than the vault itself, is what lies inside. Seeds. Millions of seeds. Each with a genetic embryo untouched and perfectly preserved. Waiting.
No one knows who built it. Or when. What we have managed to figure out is that whoever it was traveled an immense distance. For the sole purpose of hiding their genetic blueprints on Earth. But why?
Now a small group of marine biologists and navy investigators have been assigned to find out. Before anyone else does.
But Alison Shaw and John Clay are not prepared for what they are about to uncover.
Beginning with the truth behind our own evolution.
Its purpose was to preserve Earth’s genetic history in the event of a global catastrophe.
Now, decades later, a second vault has been uncovered. This one resting where no one ever expected. And the problem is…it’s not ours.
Yet even more curious than the vault itself, is what lies inside. Seeds. Millions of seeds. Each with a genetic embryo untouched and perfectly preserved. Waiting.
No one knows who built it. Or when. What we have managed to figure out is that whoever it was traveled an immense distance. For the sole purpose of hiding their genetic blueprints on Earth. But why?
Now a small group of marine biologists and navy investigators have been assigned to find out. Before anyone else does.
But Alison Shaw and John Clay are not prepared for what they are about to uncover.
Beginning with the truth behind our own evolution.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2015
5413 people are currently reading
2539 people want to read
About the author
Michael C. Grumley
18 books1,313 followersMichael C. Grumley is the author of the best-selling BREAKTHROUGH series with over two million books sold. He lives in Northern California with his two young daughters. He’s an avid reader, runner and most of all father, and dotes on his girls every chance he gets. He loves hearing from readers while he works on the next ROLLBACK book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 513 reviews
May 3, 2021
A lot of people just don't "get" the Breakthrough series, putting on their logic hats and nit-picking through details that aren't entirely accurate. If that's a make-or-break kind of thing for them, I understand.
That said, I have different criteria. I need sci-fi books with at least one character I can respect and identify with, a messsage that makes me feel good about humanity, and some cool out-of-the-box ideas. Add aliens, space travel, and/or cool tech (plausible or not), and I am a seriously happy camper. Keep the storyline consistent, the grammar and spelling decent, and stay away from misogyny/racism/preachy stuff, and we have a winner.
That's what I see in these books. They add up to exactly the kind of stories I love to read. They don't keep me up at night scared for mankind; they make me feel hopeful.
Catalyst continues the Breakthrough series with more revelations about the big brained mammals on earth, and strives to show there is a chance we can all communicate, we can all Kumbaya together. As with the earlier novels, the science doesn't all add up, but that's not what makes these books so important or enjoyable. No one writes hopeful and heart-filled sci-fi books anymore. They're all we-effed-up-the-planet apocalypse scenarios, terrifying no-one-has-rights-anymore dystopias, rebelling AIs, and misunderstood aliens trying to kill us.
Michael C. Grumley doesn't give us more of the doom and gloom. He gives us a break from the awful and shows us the good. Give me his brand of old school sci-fi adventure any day. I sleep much better hoping we can one day find a way to speak, peer-to-peer, with all the animals of the earth. Think of what we could learn if we could shut up long enough to listen, really listen, to the world around us!
That said, I have different criteria. I need sci-fi books with at least one character I can respect and identify with, a messsage that makes me feel good about humanity, and some cool out-of-the-box ideas. Add aliens, space travel, and/or cool tech (plausible or not), and I am a seriously happy camper. Keep the storyline consistent, the grammar and spelling decent, and stay away from misogyny/racism/preachy stuff, and we have a winner.
That's what I see in these books. They add up to exactly the kind of stories I love to read. They don't keep me up at night scared for mankind; they make me feel hopeful.
Catalyst continues the Breakthrough series with more revelations about the big brained mammals on earth, and strives to show there is a chance we can all communicate, we can all Kumbaya together. As with the earlier novels, the science doesn't all add up, but that's not what makes these books so important or enjoyable. No one writes hopeful and heart-filled sci-fi books anymore. They're all we-effed-up-the-planet apocalypse scenarios, terrifying no-one-has-rights-anymore dystopias, rebelling AIs, and misunderstood aliens trying to kill us.
Michael C. Grumley doesn't give us more of the doom and gloom. He gives us a break from the awful and shows us the good. Give me his brand of old school sci-fi adventure any day. I sleep much better hoping we can one day find a way to speak, peer-to-peer, with all the animals of the earth. Think of what we could learn if we could shut up long enough to listen, really listen, to the world around us!
April 27, 2021
Michael C. Grumley is back with another thrilling ride that further explores nature and the secrets it holds. Picking up soon after the previous novel ended, Grumley pulls the reader in with new excitement as geo-political conflict increases against a backdrop of a sensational new discovery in a remote jungle. With a handful of key players doing their part, it will be a race for answers, while keeping things somewhat secret until it can all be synthesised. There is action and even some sorrow, but something electrifying is pushing the story forward, into a world of extreme unknowns. Another winner by Michael C. Grumley that will have series fans on the edge of their seats, demanding more!
The tense nature of the previous novel's end comes crashing into the opening pages of this piece, as the story kicks into high gear. The Chinese are baffled as to what's happened to their warship and can only surmise that it must be the Americans who have tried to foil their plans. However, there is the added confusion as to what was going on in South America that has high-ranking officials even more confused. Someone's been hiding something essential and it could mean weakness, even a political coup gathering momentum. To allow such a crack would be unheard of within the communist hierarchy.
On the other side of the world, someone's killed a powerful man in South America likely because he knew something of some importance. While US Navy investigators John Clay and Steve Caesare are aware, they must dodge accusations that they might have been involved, while also getting to the root of the issue. It surrounds a group of capuchin monkeys, some of whom are showing some highly unique qualities pertaining to prolonged life. Could there be something in their DNA that holds the answers many have sought for centuries to locate? Caesare takes on the task of learning what he must, while dodging those who would do him harm all the while.
In Puerto Rico, marine biologist Alison Shaw continues to work with her two dolphins, Sally and Dirk, learning much about their life experiences through some of her high-tech communication software. Shaw has also discovered the healing capabilities of these two, when a young girl who has been diagnosed with a severe illness emerges unscathed from a swim in their tank. Shaw has also been working on expanding her communication tool, working with a young gorilla, Dulce, which has helped to expand the parameters of understanding between the species.
While John Clay travels to learn some of the secrets behind the veil of secrecy in China, Steve Caesare focuses his attention on the South American adventure. Both find themselves in a great deal of trouble as they peel things back a little more, understanding that the properties of some plant in the Guyanese forests could hold the answer for everyone. However, the revelations come with new risks and added dangers that could, and will, leave someone dead. This is sure to send shockwaves across the team and leave Alison to wonder if she has taken one step too many in her quest to better understand what's going on in the world and how other animals can piece together than which humans do not fully comprehend.
And then there is the vault that's been located on a remote island... and a second one that is filled with embryos. What is it and who built it? It's a mystery that adds new layers of excitement and thrills to an already complex story!
Michael C. Grumley continues to construct a strong series that pushes the limits and possibilities, keeping some readers on the defensive. While science fiction has never been an area of particular interest for me, I've found myself drawn to the stories, plots, and even some of the characters. Grumley mixes together thrilling plots, curious scientific discoveries, and great development to keep the reader pushing forward.
The book offers series fans a great look at a number of protagonists, each pushing their respective plotline forward. John Clay and Alison Shaw have had some time in the limelight, but their growth continues in this piece, both in their own spheres and together. Each holds onto the reader's attention as they progress through the story, captivating it with ease. Additing Steve Caesare to the mix provides some interesting flavour to the narrative and offers another perspective to keep the reader's attention hooked. His grit and determination, partnered with some well-deserved humour, keeps things light when it serves him well, while never missing a chance to show his abilities.
The secondary characters Grumley peppers throughout the story keep things on point. Returning characters are especially important for this piece, as the action connects with the previous novel, though there are new faces and flavourings that keep the story from getting too repetitive. There are some who complement the political undertone of the story, while others make their impact through the science side of things. There is surely something for everyone in this piece, with a supporting cast sure to appeal to a large cross-section of readers.
Grumley offers more great plots and decent characters in this bridging novel. The narrative flowed well where it needed to keep the reader engaged and educated in the scientific aspects to provide a new spin and something a little 'out of this world'. Wonderful dialogue highlights some of the strong characters Grumley developed, provided needed humour and moments of tension to enrich the reader experience. A mix of chapter lengths works to lure the reader in and strings them along, allowing them to feel a strong part of the building action. I continue to surprise myself by finding such an interest in this series, as sci fi is something I usually leave to others.
Kudos, Mr. Grumley, for another intense read. Let's see what else is out there.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
The tense nature of the previous novel's end comes crashing into the opening pages of this piece, as the story kicks into high gear. The Chinese are baffled as to what's happened to their warship and can only surmise that it must be the Americans who have tried to foil their plans. However, there is the added confusion as to what was going on in South America that has high-ranking officials even more confused. Someone's been hiding something essential and it could mean weakness, even a political coup gathering momentum. To allow such a crack would be unheard of within the communist hierarchy.
On the other side of the world, someone's killed a powerful man in South America likely because he knew something of some importance. While US Navy investigators John Clay and Steve Caesare are aware, they must dodge accusations that they might have been involved, while also getting to the root of the issue. It surrounds a group of capuchin monkeys, some of whom are showing some highly unique qualities pertaining to prolonged life. Could there be something in their DNA that holds the answers many have sought for centuries to locate? Caesare takes on the task of learning what he must, while dodging those who would do him harm all the while.
In Puerto Rico, marine biologist Alison Shaw continues to work with her two dolphins, Sally and Dirk, learning much about their life experiences through some of her high-tech communication software. Shaw has also discovered the healing capabilities of these two, when a young girl who has been diagnosed with a severe illness emerges unscathed from a swim in their tank. Shaw has also been working on expanding her communication tool, working with a young gorilla, Dulce, which has helped to expand the parameters of understanding between the species.
While John Clay travels to learn some of the secrets behind the veil of secrecy in China, Steve Caesare focuses his attention on the South American adventure. Both find themselves in a great deal of trouble as they peel things back a little more, understanding that the properties of some plant in the Guyanese forests could hold the answer for everyone. However, the revelations come with new risks and added dangers that could, and will, leave someone dead. This is sure to send shockwaves across the team and leave Alison to wonder if she has taken one step too many in her quest to better understand what's going on in the world and how other animals can piece together than which humans do not fully comprehend.
And then there is the vault that's been located on a remote island... and a second one that is filled with embryos. What is it and who built it? It's a mystery that adds new layers of excitement and thrills to an already complex story!
Michael C. Grumley continues to construct a strong series that pushes the limits and possibilities, keeping some readers on the defensive. While science fiction has never been an area of particular interest for me, I've found myself drawn to the stories, plots, and even some of the characters. Grumley mixes together thrilling plots, curious scientific discoveries, and great development to keep the reader pushing forward.
The book offers series fans a great look at a number of protagonists, each pushing their respective plotline forward. John Clay and Alison Shaw have had some time in the limelight, but their growth continues in this piece, both in their own spheres and together. Each holds onto the reader's attention as they progress through the story, captivating it with ease. Additing Steve Caesare to the mix provides some interesting flavour to the narrative and offers another perspective to keep the reader's attention hooked. His grit and determination, partnered with some well-deserved humour, keeps things light when it serves him well, while never missing a chance to show his abilities.
The secondary characters Grumley peppers throughout the story keep things on point. Returning characters are especially important for this piece, as the action connects with the previous novel, though there are new faces and flavourings that keep the story from getting too repetitive. There are some who complement the political undertone of the story, while others make their impact through the science side of things. There is surely something for everyone in this piece, with a supporting cast sure to appeal to a large cross-section of readers.
Grumley offers more great plots and decent characters in this bridging novel. The narrative flowed well where it needed to keep the reader engaged and educated in the scientific aspects to provide a new spin and something a little 'out of this world'. Wonderful dialogue highlights some of the strong characters Grumley developed, provided needed humour and moments of tension to enrich the reader experience. A mix of chapter lengths works to lure the reader in and strings them along, allowing them to feel a strong part of the building action. I continue to surprise myself by finding such an interest in this series, as sci fi is something I usually leave to others.
Kudos, Mr. Grumley, for another intense read. Let's see what else is out there.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
March 26, 2025
I love this series. Being able to communicate with animals is such a cool idea. But this series is also in the thriller, sci-fi, even a bit of spy craft thrown in for good measure genres. It’s all the things that intrigue me. And if you’re going to pick it apart like a science journal then this isn’t for you. I’m guessing you hate James Bond as well. Sometimes it’s just about enjoying the ride and the possibilities. And I give this a big 5 stars. The characters are becoming so real. I can’t wait to visit them again.
September 23, 2023
Action packed third book in a series by Michael C. Grumley. These are focused on a group of scientists and adventure seekers developing human to animal communication, with a bit of military action and a touch of science fiction. Well worth a read.
July 13, 2017
The books in the Breakthrough series just keep getting better and better. This one was a real nail-biter. So much was happening and our team of protagonists were split up at one stage between South America, China and the Caribbean.
The characters are so likeable and little Dulce, the young gorilla, is just adorable. After a couple of nasty serial killer books, this was going to be just the ticket to soothe my nerves. Except it wasn't very soothing, rather it was non-stop action and adventure and danger and just wow!
Everyone is now chasing the mysterious substance that may hold the secret to prolonging life. Our protagonists, however, are intent on keeping this secret locked up because of the pandemonium that would result if the secret got out. Sure its all far-fetched and a bit aspirational but it makes for a gripping and enjoyable story. I also think that it shines a light on the darker aspects of humanity. Our fearless heroes are starting to feel that humans may be completely blinded by their own hubris and gigantic egos.
If you're in the market for something a little 'nicer' you could do worse than read these books - preferably in order.
The characters are so likeable and little Dulce, the young gorilla, is just adorable. After a couple of nasty serial killer books, this was going to be just the ticket to soothe my nerves. Except it wasn't very soothing, rather it was non-stop action and adventure and danger and just wow!
Everyone is now chasing the mysterious substance that may hold the secret to prolonging life. Our protagonists, however, are intent on keeping this secret locked up because of the pandemonium that would result if the secret got out. Sure its all far-fetched and a bit aspirational but it makes for a gripping and enjoyable story. I also think that it shines a light on the darker aspects of humanity. Our fearless heroes are starting to feel that humans may be completely blinded by their own hubris and gigantic egos.
If you're in the market for something a little 'nicer' you could do worse than read these books - preferably in order.
May 8, 2016
Please hurry and write the next sequel, Mr. Grumley!
Being too old to remember all the technicalities of writing, I can only write about my thoughts and feelings about this book. From the moment I started reading "Breakthrough", I knew this was a book I hoped would lead to a series. Now my hopes are that it continues as a series of stories about a group of individuals, both human and animal, that are working together solving mysteries and problems of a very unique nature. I personally love the extraterrestrial angle and would like that to be a part of each story. Over the course of reading these three books, I have become attached emotionally to these characters. That is important to me when reading a book or story. Otherwise it just doesn't draw me into the story. I want to envision myself as knowing these people and their back stories. I want to feel that I am involved in what is going on. I feel the same way about movies. If I cannot picture myself in it, it does not interest me! I do not have that problem with these books. Being an animal lover, that aspect of the stories is particularly important to me. Especially the interaction with, and among, the dolphins. Adore Sally and Dirk!! To those who are disappointed with my review and its lack of discussion about the technicalities of writing, I am sorry. That seems to be the only reason some people read. I do not read to be a critic of writing. I read to be entertained and enlightened and to have my notions of how things are or should be challenged. But mostly I read to be taken out of my humdrum life and be transported into a place of excitement and entertainment. Michael Grumley and these three stories have met and exceeded all of my desires and expectations!
Being too old to remember all the technicalities of writing, I can only write about my thoughts and feelings about this book. From the moment I started reading "Breakthrough", I knew this was a book I hoped would lead to a series. Now my hopes are that it continues as a series of stories about a group of individuals, both human and animal, that are working together solving mysteries and problems of a very unique nature. I personally love the extraterrestrial angle and would like that to be a part of each story. Over the course of reading these three books, I have become attached emotionally to these characters. That is important to me when reading a book or story. Otherwise it just doesn't draw me into the story. I want to envision myself as knowing these people and their back stories. I want to feel that I am involved in what is going on. I feel the same way about movies. If I cannot picture myself in it, it does not interest me! I do not have that problem with these books. Being an animal lover, that aspect of the stories is particularly important to me. Especially the interaction with, and among, the dolphins. Adore Sally and Dirk!! To those who are disappointed with my review and its lack of discussion about the technicalities of writing, I am sorry. That seems to be the only reason some people read. I do not read to be a critic of writing. I read to be entertained and enlightened and to have my notions of how things are or should be challenged. But mostly I read to be taken out of my humdrum life and be transported into a place of excitement and entertainment. Michael Grumley and these three stories have met and exceeded all of my desires and expectations!
June 27, 2016
Just moments ago I finished this novel. I like the other two, but I loved this one. The story was fantastic, and engaging. I found myself on the edge of my figurative seat, throughout most of this story. I started reading this story on a bus, on my way with my son's class to the Canadian Museum of History. On the way home my son's teacher asked what I was reading, so I found myself going over just a little bit of the story. That started a much larger discussion about other things. My son and all 7 of his classmates, are Autistic. These boys are all verbal, so we have some communication with them. But this sparked a much more in depth conversation about all communication, and how a system like they have in this book would be an asset to children with this condition, verbal or not. The fact that a fictional novel could incite such a dialogue was fascinating, and what it could mean for all animals , and humanity as a whole to have a system like the IMIS.
September 11, 2016
I'm reading a lot more nowadays which means I also have less patience for illogicalities and inconsistencies. It's possible that some people will have more tolerance than me but I found myself questioning statements too often. That's a roundabout way of saying that this may be a good read for some, but not for me; I only made it through the first few chapters.
My guard went up when the author presented a logical fallacy by saying that 'some primates' have DNA 99% identical to humans (current research has chimp DNA closer to 95 than 99%) and then making the leap from the general (some primates) to the specific (Capuchin monkeys).
Then we are told that the US' most advanced research ship is being used to spy on a Chinese warship that was - presumably - legally in Guyanan waters; that the US navy could spot a Russian submarine but not a Chinese one; that the crew of a warship could hand-carry, at night, through a jungle, so much material that a warship needed to be 'gutted' (this went on for months - why not send a transport? And how come no one noticed large naval guns etc., being dismantled and dropped overseas?); that the only record of satellite imagery was on the research vessel and that, instead of simply sailing away without causing a fuss, the Chinese decided to sink a US naval vessel thus creating exactly the attention they had been avoiding for months.
But the kicker was a few pages later when the Chinese, having sunk a US vessel, then fly a secret prototype aircraft the LONG way round to China (Venezeula to Beijing via the Pacific is 5,000km further than flying east) and refueling in Hawaii! There is no way it would have landed in US territory.
Again, if these sorts of details seem petty to you, then go ahead - it's probably a good thriller but I couldn't get past factual and logical sloppiness.
My guard went up when the author presented a logical fallacy by saying that 'some primates' have DNA 99% identical to humans (current research has chimp DNA closer to 95 than 99%) and then making the leap from the general (some primates) to the specific (Capuchin monkeys).
Then we are told that the US' most advanced research ship is being used to spy on a Chinese warship that was - presumably - legally in Guyanan waters; that the US navy could spot a Russian submarine but not a Chinese one; that the crew of a warship could hand-carry, at night, through a jungle, so much material that a warship needed to be 'gutted' (this went on for months - why not send a transport? And how come no one noticed large naval guns etc., being dismantled and dropped overseas?); that the only record of satellite imagery was on the research vessel and that, instead of simply sailing away without causing a fuss, the Chinese decided to sink a US naval vessel thus creating exactly the attention they had been avoiding for months.
But the kicker was a few pages later when the Chinese, having sunk a US vessel, then fly a secret prototype aircraft the LONG way round to China (Venezeula to Beijing via the Pacific is 5,000km further than flying east) and refueling in Hawaii! There is no way it would have landed in US territory.
Again, if these sorts of details seem petty to you, then go ahead - it's probably a good thriller but I couldn't get past factual and logical sloppiness.
September 22, 2016
Hard To Put Down
Please tell me this series is not gonna end, with so many unanswered questions. This book is hard to put down, I practically read all 3 books in less than 4 days. Make sure you have some time on your hand before stating these books, you won't want to stop.
Please continue to write. I appreciate your work.
Please tell me this series is not gonna end, with so many unanswered questions. This book is hard to put down, I practically read all 3 books in less than 4 days. Make sure you have some time on your hand before stating these books, you won't want to stop.
Please continue to write. I appreciate your work.
February 29, 2016
Are these Breakthrough books page turners? The evidence says yes:
1, I finished the 3 books in 4 days. I'm generally a fast reader, but it's been quite a while since I stayed up way past bedtime like that.
2, There are editing errors in the Kindle version, but I was too caught up in the story to care... and this is something I always care about.
"Page-turner" isn't that much of an endorsement from me since I'm not into most of the fast-paced, action/adventure kind of books that usually fall into that category. But these added in the very interesting elements of communicating with other species and aliens. It sounds a bit silly, but it's quite interesting!
1, I finished the 3 books in 4 days. I'm generally a fast reader, but it's been quite a while since I stayed up way past bedtime like that.
2, There are editing errors in the Kindle version, but I was too caught up in the story to care... and this is something I always care about.
"Page-turner" isn't that much of an endorsement from me since I'm not into most of the fast-paced, action/adventure kind of books that usually fall into that category. But these added in the very interesting elements of communicating with other species and aliens. It sounds a bit silly, but it's quite interesting!
December 11, 2018
Good one from the author ... Really enjoyed while reading this book !
June 22, 2022
this book is absolutely amazing, i love it, I highly recommend it, very good book
March 2, 2019
This man knows his stuff. The book is collection of well researched materia, marinading in plot.
For instance (my words, not literal transcription):
-How did your bones heal so quickly?
-Well I guess I have good bones.
-It's not about the bones, it's surrounding muscles that take weeks to heal.
You can't know that unless you're a doctor or you researched the topic. But if this info is not available right from your ass, why would you even go researching about what makes bones to heal in this particular point in writing? You could have left it at "I have good bones" and 99% of readers wouldn't complain.
And it's all like that, pieces of knowledge that you could probably go without, yet here they are, for your reading pleasure. I wonder how long it takes to write a book with all the googling.
For instance (my words, not literal transcription):
-How did your bones heal so quickly?
-Well I guess I have good bones.
-It's not about the bones, it's surrounding muscles that take weeks to heal.
You can't know that unless you're a doctor or you researched the topic. But if this info is not available right from your ass, why would you even go researching about what makes bones to heal in this particular point in writing? You could have left it at "I have good bones" and 99% of readers wouldn't complain.
And it's all like that, pieces of knowledge that you could probably go without, yet here they are, for your reading pleasure. I wonder how long it takes to write a book with all the googling.
March 21, 2016
Good finale to a great science fiction story, with room for more after this if he chooses. Third book in the series - this one ties up lots of loose ends, but was much more realistic in that not everyone survives this one. Dirk and Sally the dolphins are back, as is Dulce the sweet gorilla who calls DeAnn Mommy. It is much more action packed that the first two, and the stakes are the highest yet. World relations are at stake, not to mention the future of the world as we know it. Some political spinning gets creative and there is a torture scene near the end that is brutal. There are so many story lines that it does jump around a bit and I found myself struggling to remember where we'd last left off when a new perspective hit again with a new chapter, BUT, I still really enjoyed this whole saga, especially knowing this was a self published feat. Well done Mr. Grumley, and might I suggest there at least be a honeymoon for somebody in the next book!!!!!!! hint hint.
March 31, 2016
Fantastic third novel in series
The more I read of this series, the more I want to read! The characters are well-developed, both the lovable and the unlovable. The plot is the simple good versus evil that takes the reader across the Earth on adventures that chill the reader. On the other side, it begs to become a reality of someday being able to communicate with other species via a translation device. Dolphins and gorillas, along with other species should be seen already as sentient beings. Human ignorance and arrogance has not yet permitted us to acknowledge these other species as intelligent. It is time to wake up and listen to the prospect that science fiction is not always fantastic, but it is prophetic.
The more I read of this series, the more I want to read! The characters are well-developed, both the lovable and the unlovable. The plot is the simple good versus evil that takes the reader across the Earth on adventures that chill the reader. On the other side, it begs to become a reality of someday being able to communicate with other species via a translation device. Dolphins and gorillas, along with other species should be seen already as sentient beings. Human ignorance and arrogance has not yet permitted us to acknowledge these other species as intelligent. It is time to wake up and listen to the prospect that science fiction is not always fantastic, but it is prophetic.
June 17, 2016
A really good series
I thoroughly enjoyed all three books but, as I mentioned in an earlier review, in my opinion these are not really stand-alone books. For full impact and enjoyment they should be read sequentially. That said, Grumley is a great storyteller: thrilling, fast-paced, good characterization, and my hat's off to the proofreader who did an excellent job. I hope there are many more books in this series as I look forward to reading them all. (It's always fun to discover new authors that you like and Michael Grumley is definitely one of them.)
I thoroughly enjoyed all three books but, as I mentioned in an earlier review, in my opinion these are not really stand-alone books. For full impact and enjoyment they should be read sequentially. That said, Grumley is a great storyteller: thrilling, fast-paced, good characterization, and my hat's off to the proofreader who did an excellent job. I hope there are many more books in this series as I look forward to reading them all. (It's always fun to discover new authors that you like and Michael Grumley is definitely one of them.)
July 11, 2017
I really liked the first two books in this series, but this one was not what I was hoping for. It was well-written (as usual for Mr. Grumley), and did follow the events of the last book to a tee. However, we learned very little new information in this book. Rather than exploring the world-changing discovery made at the end of "Leap", the author spends 60% of this book setting up three separate searches to tie up loose ends. Once the searches are underway, the book picks up the pace quite a bit, but it's still just a lot of wild military bad-assery (with a few poor decisions to let people live when they clearly should have been eliminated).
All that being said, everything involving Allison is gold. She is the only character making progress on the science front. The problem is that the least number of pages are dedicated to her story. I'm glad I bought the book, and I would recommend it to fans of the first two books; but make sure you have your mind set for a military-focused "cleaning up the messes" and not a revelatory "look what could happen if XYZ were unleashed".
In the Author's Note at the very end, there is a tease for a fourth book where he promises to get back to the meat of the series again. I'm looking forward that one!
All that being said, everything involving Allison is gold. She is the only character making progress on the science front. The problem is that the least number of pages are dedicated to her story. I'm glad I bought the book, and I would recommend it to fans of the first two books; but make sure you have your mind set for a military-focused "cleaning up the messes" and not a revelatory "look what could happen if XYZ were unleashed".
In the Author's Note at the very end, there is a tease for a fourth book where he promises to get back to the meat of the series again. I'm looking forward that one!
May 14, 2017
A Capuchin monkey named Dexter swings into the picture in this increasingly enthralling tale. On the same mountain top where they almost met their end the team attempts to retrieve Dexter using Dulce, the young gorilla for communication with the Capuchin. But they have another goal in mind as do others. The good guys and the bad guys slug it out, for the treasure everyone is going for. Unbeknown to all is the plan hatched by the country who found the original prize. Like a jilted lover, they decide if they can’t have it no one else will, and surprise everyone by dropping the FOAB, or the Father of all Bombs, this is fiction folks and while we have dropped the MOAB, which has been around for while although unknown to many, some where someone must go us one better. But hang on, there is more action in another part of our planet. It just gets more better as I do more reading.
May 9, 2016
You won't want to stop reading!
Please keep writing more Breakthrough series. As an amateur dolphin researcher involved in inter-species communication, I find the series insightful besides being exciting. A lot of the underlying storyline, is more real than the average layman might know, blended with sci-fi fiction, a great match!
Please keep writing more Breakthrough series. As an amateur dolphin researcher involved in inter-species communication, I find the series insightful besides being exciting. A lot of the underlying storyline, is more real than the average layman might know, blended with sci-fi fiction, a great match!
June 23, 2016
Wonderful read
The Breakthrough series is an exciting read and indeed full of wonder. They might well be sci fi but they are very believable which makes them thrilling and their potential truth scary and awesome. The stories move fast and keep you wanting more. I hope the next book comes soon!
The Breakthrough series is an exciting read and indeed full of wonder. They might well be sci fi but they are very believable which makes them thrilling and their potential truth scary and awesome. The stories move fast and keep you wanting more. I hope the next book comes soon!
July 9, 2016
More please!
The latest installment of the the series has me wanting to know what happens next. Alien ship in the ocean! Yes, tell me about it. I'm sad about the loss of some characters but know it makes it more interesting.
The latest installment of the the series has me wanting to know what happens next. Alien ship in the ocean! Yes, tell me about it. I'm sad about the loss of some characters but know it makes it more interesting.
June 17, 2023
Awesome series!
This is the 2nd book I've read by this Author, and I just love this series. It's definitely entertaining and action packed!
This is the 2nd book I've read by this Author, and I just love this series. It's definitely entertaining and action packed!
March 2, 2023
Catalyst is the third book in the charmingly engrossing Breakthrough light sci-fi/adventure series, about a team of scientists who have learned the secret of communication with certain animals, and the world-changing discoveries that follow. It’s nearly six years since I read the first two books, and while I remember the main characters, including amiable and remarkably helpful dolphins Sally and Dirk, quite well, I was a bit vague about the exact plot - including the particularly out-there aspects (no spoilers) so probably should’ve reread them both first - but who has the time? There was just about enough recap to not feel lost, but I definitely do recommend reading this series in order. This was the first book in ages that I read just for me, from my “bought ebook to read” shelf, rather than to review or for Book Club, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Marine biologist Alison Shaw is still working with Dirk & Sally in Puerto Rico, but the team are recovering from their dangerous trip to South America, and DeeAnn is preparing to take young gorilla Dulce away. Then Steve Caesare is ordered to go back and retrieve Dexter, the super intelligent capuchin monkey, John Clay is sent to China to find whatever the Chinese go away with, and Alison discovers a potentially life-saving phenomenon. As the heroes undertake their separate missions, powerful international factions are also closing in, desperate to claim the secrets for themselves - and prevent anyone else from benefiting - at any cost.
This was my favourite of the series so far - I love the mixture of science, action, suspense and geopolitics - and who doesn’t adore dolphins! I do remember the previous books being completely improbable, but this one keeps the technological aspects more believable. I like all the main characters and appreciate the author keeping the romance elements to a minimum. There were some pretty sad bits - don’t worry, no dolphins die or are harmed, but not all the good guys survive and there are some animal deaths 😿 The ending leaves things wide open (but no cliffhangers) for the next book, Ripple, which I intend to read soon before I forget too much again!
Marine biologist Alison Shaw is still working with Dirk & Sally in Puerto Rico, but the team are recovering from their dangerous trip to South America, and DeeAnn is preparing to take young gorilla Dulce away. Then Steve Caesare is ordered to go back and retrieve Dexter, the super intelligent capuchin monkey, John Clay is sent to China to find whatever the Chinese go away with, and Alison discovers a potentially life-saving phenomenon. As the heroes undertake their separate missions, powerful international factions are also closing in, desperate to claim the secrets for themselves - and prevent anyone else from benefiting - at any cost.
This was my favourite of the series so far - I love the mixture of science, action, suspense and geopolitics - and who doesn’t adore dolphins! I do remember the previous books being completely improbable, but this one keeps the technological aspects more believable. I like all the main characters and appreciate the author keeping the romance elements to a minimum. There were some pretty sad bits - don’t worry, no dolphins die or are harmed, but not all the good guys survive and there are some animal deaths 😿 The ending leaves things wide open (but no cliffhangers) for the next book, Ripple, which I intend to read soon before I forget too much again!
January 22, 2019
I love these kids!
Now that I've finished my 3rd book, I've got to go on to the 4th with no break for anything else! I've become so attached to everyone, I can't stop now!
Now that I've finished my 3rd book, I've got to go on to the 4th with no break for anything else! I've become so attached to everyone, I can't stop now!
October 16, 2018
As I said in reviewing the last book in the series, the author doesn't seem to understand molecular biology, microbiology, erythrocyte production, etc. The mystery stuff would kill not do the fantastical things the author/characters say it would. Somehow, though, the characters and story are still compelling despite the implausibility of the wonderous substance or of the way some military planes, ships, and subs went unobserved,etc.
November 7, 2017
Just a phenomenal series! So well woven with characters, locations and information. I didn't want it to end! This needs to be made as a movie or better yet, a series!
September 3, 2016
A multi-genre home run
I'm always searching for a good sci fi book series that breaks from the all pervasive alien space operas that seem to dominate the genre right now. Occasionally a writer hits on a interesting theme and fleshes it out with good storytelling and characters you like to get to know.
Michael has done that and more.
The best sci fi from the best writers, can take any genre, whether detective, international spy, psychological thrillers, scientific exploration, you name it and build a good sci fi storyline around one and come away with a very good book.
I was happy to find that Michael has taken bits of many different themes, kept the adventure close to home and created a great series of books!
Maybe it's because I enjoy a pretty diverse love of the exact same genres that he melds into each book. Whether underwater exploration, international spy stories, hard sci fi, military spec-ops, first contact, etc. and even the guilty pleasure summer reading type stories and adventures of Clive Cussler's Dirk Pitt but with a much more thought provoking storyline that you would find in a Michael Creighton novel. Add a tinge of Indiana Jones into the mix and I'm hooked! So looking forward to his next installment!
PS. After a quick trading of emails with Michael, I understand that he is aware of the one bothersome issue with spacing and transition between one group of characters and scenes to another, and it is being corrected. Thanks, Michael!
I'm always searching for a good sci fi book series that breaks from the all pervasive alien space operas that seem to dominate the genre right now. Occasionally a writer hits on a interesting theme and fleshes it out with good storytelling and characters you like to get to know.
Michael has done that and more.
The best sci fi from the best writers, can take any genre, whether detective, international spy, psychological thrillers, scientific exploration, you name it and build a good sci fi storyline around one and come away with a very good book.
I was happy to find that Michael has taken bits of many different themes, kept the adventure close to home and created a great series of books!
Maybe it's because I enjoy a pretty diverse love of the exact same genres that he melds into each book. Whether underwater exploration, international spy stories, hard sci fi, military spec-ops, first contact, etc. and even the guilty pleasure summer reading type stories and adventures of Clive Cussler's Dirk Pitt but with a much more thought provoking storyline that you would find in a Michael Creighton novel. Add a tinge of Indiana Jones into the mix and I'm hooked! So looking forward to his next installment!
PS. After a quick trading of emails with Michael, I understand that he is aware of the one bothersome issue with spacing and transition between one group of characters and scenes to another, and it is being corrected. Thanks, Michael!
May 9, 2018
WOWOWOW!!!! I can't believe what happened in this book. It just keeps you at the edge of your seat, hoping that the characters could survive the end of the book and the myriad amounts of dangers that results in the new discoveries
I just love Clay and Allison both being at the forefront of the new discoveries and also managing to keep site of each other
Love Sally and Dirk and how the author brought them to life and how much I enjoy their personalities. The dolphin POV were so much awesomeness.
AWESOMENESS AND EVERYTHING
Awesome job, Michael Grumley. Can not wait for the next book
Peace out
I just love Clay and Allison both being at the forefront of the new discoveries and also managing to keep site of each other
Love Sally and Dirk and how the author brought them to life and how much I enjoy their personalities. The dolphin POV were so much awesomeness.
AWESOMENESS AND EVERYTHING
Awesome job, Michael Grumley. Can not wait for the next book
Peace out
July 20, 2016
I sincerely hope that Michael doesn't take too long in publishing book four in this series because I have become addicted and I need another fix of Ali, DeeAnn, John, Ceseare and the rest of the gang. These books are a must read for anyone who truly enjoys action packed adventures with a little science fiction thrown into the mix, but you must read them in order, starting with book one, Breakthrough. As a rule I keep very few books in my Kindle library once I have read them but I'm keeping all the Breakthrough books because I will be reading them again and again.
December 31, 2015
Love, love, love the story. I read all 3 books back to back and am anxiously awaiting the 4th. I have only one very small issue with the book, and that is some of the wording choices. Sometimes the phrasing was akward and pulled me out of the story, but this feels more like an editing issue and is no reflection on the writing or the writer. If you enjoy a good adventure story, this is the book for you. Thanks Michael for another great read!
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