I am very excited to be welcoming Allen Wyler to Novel Kicks and the blog tour for his book, Deadly Odds 9.0.

Not every threat begins with violence. Sometimes it starts with quiet observation, careful planning, and the knowledge that someone has been studying every move. Deadly Odds 9.0 by Allen Wyler follows a cyber-detective whose greatest challenge may be protecting the people he never wanted caught in the middle.

Arnold Gold has learned to trust his instincts, and they warn him that something is wrong before any evidence appears. As he spends time with Kara Winston, a trusted ally who has become far more than a professional colleague, a dangerous adversary begins putting a calculated plan into motion. Rashidi watches, waits, and searches for the vulnerabilities that will cause the greatest damage, transforming Arnold’s loved ones into potential targets.

The danger escalates when Arnold discovers someone has attempted to kill his dog, Chance, confirming that the threat has become deeply personal. At the same time, growing conflict within Gold, Patel, and Associates weakens the support system Arnold has relied upon. With the help of SAM, his advanced artificial intelligence network, Arnold faces an increasingly complex battle against cyber threats, hidden enemies, and a relentless opponent determined to stay one step ahead.

Allen has shared an extract with us today. We hope you enjoy it. 

(Warning: mild language.) 

*****beginning of extract*****

CHAPTER 1—Seattle

Prickly spider tarsi skittered up Arnold Gold’s spine, causing his shoulders to scrunch together as the hair on the back of his neck became erect. Stopping in mid-sentence, he glanced over his left shoulder—as if he intuitively knew that was the only possible reason for such a strong sensation—but he only saw other diners and the familiar maître’d. Suddenly his eyes locked onto a darker skinned male hurrying toward the front door, the image triggering a sense of foreboding familiarity.

I know him.

Arnold stared at the space the man vacated as the visceral sense of danger subsided. Why did the fleeting image vise-grip his attention with a déjà vu familiarity and instinctive animal fear?

Did he know that person?

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