By: Mariah Thomas
Eric Rickstad’s Remote series reunites readers with the coveted “remote’”duo, Agent Lukas Stark and his partner Gilles Garnier, in Remote: The Five. In the context of the book, the title relates back to a term coined by Russell Targ and Harold E. Puthoff in 1972. Defined by the CIA, remote viewing is “the purported ability to gather information about a distant or unseen target through mental perception, rather than relying on traditional sensory channels.” This concept brilliantly comes into play as Stark and Garnier deal with a serial killer who challenges that practice for them. They are often left feeling two steps behind in this web of chaos. The Remote series is a breath of fresh air in the crime/thriller genre.
In the follow up to his last book, Remote: The Five continues on with the Tableau killer, also known as “Q.” Thirsting for revenge, Q has managed to escape police custody. Back out in the world with his trained “remote” ways, he is always able to have a full viewpoint at all times. He sets out to expose the secret organization, Stargazer, who created the monster he has become. He is able to lure more of the original six remote viewers and together they kidnap a Stargazer researcher and his family. This isn’t done without much tragedy left as a trail in their wake. Agents Stark and Garnier hunt Q across the country and attempt to save the hostages alongside the help of new agent, Jayla King. The further into this investigation they get, the more dangerous the consequences get. Just like the previous book, Remote: The Five leaves off on such a brilliant cliffhanger that has the reader waiting for more.
My favorite moments of this book were the final handful of chapters. They beautifully bled into each other with quick precision and tension. I found myself invested in new questions the pages brought up. I found myself finally having a new understanding of Q. In addition to that, a new plot in relation to Garnier is brought to light that made me crave more instantly.
Rickstad is a remarkable in the world of thrillers and crimes. Though his books follow a similar concept or pattern, they are so vastly different in how the stories play out. As someone who enjoys watching police procedurals, his books feel reminiscent to episodes of them. You are brought into the world of the book, you get to know your main characters and you get right to work solving a case alongside the lead detective. Rickstad’s latest Remote book lets the reader feel like they are on the detective team. There is such an investment you feel as things continue to darken from page to page. Additionally, he does a wonderful job at making the story at hand feel complete while opening a new door for the following book.
Oftentimes, detective series have ten plus books out if double by the time I discover them. Remote is a series at the beginning stages that can be followed along now. There is enjoyment in the suspense of waiting for the next book. If you are someone who enjoys detective shows or other mystery novels, this is a great series to also jump into now so pick up a copy of Remote: The Five.