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Shimmer; author: Eric Barnes

By Clark Isaacs  

Eric Barnes has a smash debut novel hitting upon a subject that is clearly newsworthy. Shimmer is based upon one of the oldest money-making plots known as "The Ponzi Scheme." Barnes was formerly a COO of his own "big business" and he envisioned this devious method as being able to happen again.

Barnes has written a riveting story of the 'rich and famous' and a high-tech computer hardware company which has gained twenty-billion dollars in three years. Thirty-five- year-old Robbie Case is CEO of Core Communications in New York City and plans to walk away with millions while willing to let his five thousand employees lose everything. He lives with a dreadful secret based upon lies and fraud. He wonders daily how he will sustain his company.

Robbie works night and day! He sleeps in his office to make sure his employees never find out the truth by gaining access to his secret maneuvers. While living on the edge every day, Robbie and his arrogant cousin Trevor, both recognize the company will collapse one day soon, "All will go dead, they just don't know when."

Robbie creates a "shadow network" called Shimmer which no one but him can log onto. No one but him can even touch Shimmer. This machine keeps Core Communications alive. Most interesting is the company has a fascinating SWAT team which is always watching. While Case stays up all night to find ways to dodge them, SWAT relentlessly checks, reviews, and investigates Core, as these members are vested millionaires who share an interest in the corporation.

This novel has a cast of unforgettable characters who keep you engrossed from the beginning with their antics. They are young, bright, hard-working individuals who look to Robbie's vision and leadership, but cannot understand how the company works.
Confusion abounds in Core when financial wizards begin to question the "numbers". There is something wrong with the numbers which is always baffling.

Although this may be a fictional book, it is familiar in light of the Bernie Madoff scandal and shows intentional bilking of investors. This should be a warning to all people; be vigilant where you place your money and never take someone else's word.

Be prepared - you will not leave this corporate thriller idle; it is a shocking look at evil-doing and will keep you intrigued at every page. Shimmer would make a compelling movie. Movie stars may rush to play the roles as depicted by Barnes! This book is highly recommended.

Shimmer
Author: Eric Barnes
ISBN: 1932961674,
Pages: 288,
Publication Date: June 30, 2009,
Hardcover, Fiction,
Published by Unbridled Books
Denver, Colorado

Clark Isaacs is an accomplished book critic who is published in local newspapers and national book review lists. Contact Clark through his website at clarkisaacs.ning.com or through NewsBlaze.