Back in December 2008 I wrote up a quick review of Red Thunder, and then received Red Lightning as a gift. It's a sequel, and typically for me it's a chance to see a character grow and expand and that just increases the fun. That's sort of true in this case, but rather than being a second story told from the perspective of the character in Red Thunder, in Red Lightning it's told from the perspective of his son, though he's still involved and visible. I thought it was a great way to use the history from v1 but allow the author to use a different tone and mind set for v2. Thoroughly enjoyed it, and I have to think that one of the best gifts in life is for someone to introduce you (virtually) an author you've haven't read yet.

But I'm sure you want to hear about the story! It's set mainly on Mars, and talks about the technology that emerged in Red Thunder - basically a limitless power supply which could be corrupted to be used as a weapon. Part of the story is a tsunami that devastates the East cost of the US, the rescue efforts, and that's mixed in with an attempted hostile (not alien!) take over of Mars, with our 18ish year old son the one who ends up being a good sized player in the stuff that goes on. You'll definitely seem some things that parallel real events from the last 10 years. And if nothing else, having a space ship named the Second Amendment is good for a smile.

On a side note, I also read - or tried to - read Steel Beach by the same author and I just struggled with it, and that's unusual for me, mostly all or none. If you've read (or decide to) Steel Beach I'd enjoy hearing your thoughts.