Two teams with a similar process but widely different goals are seeing if they can push the boundaries of the human mind. A graduate student learns of breakthroughs in quantum physics, and all three groups’ futures come together. Thomas Locke’s Trial Run tells the story of what happens and how one thing can be used for good or bad.

The concept of having an out-of-body experience is familiar to most people, but what if it could be done at will? What would this enable people to do? Two separate teams, one a pioneer in the field, the other using technology stolen from the first team, are pursuing two different outcomes to these experiences. One is looking the knowledge to be gained, the second is looking for a new weapon.

Though the story switches to different areas and people, all of the pieces fit together nicely. Locke’s plot, though dealing with something that many consider to be “out there,” is easy to follow and something that you can get immersed in. It lived up to the category of suspense; each chapter draws you into reading the next to see what is going to happen.

There are points that can be used to illustrate ethics and morals. People must decide on whether to put their own ambitions first, or the welfare of others first. Dealing with the past takes a prominent place in the story, and the characters face challenges that they would rather not have to deal with.

I fully recommend Trial Run to others who are looking for a story that keeps your attention. Though it wasn’t full-tilt action all the time, it doesn’t have any dull moments.

I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

For more on Trial Run, visit the website.

Read the first chapter.