So about 2 weeks ago I get a package on my door. Not 100% sure what it was, figured it’s something from my family (usually is). I guessed it was a care package, since finals were about to start here at law school. Anyway, I toss it to the side and head to class. Get back that night and decide to open it up. I’m thinking I could use some cookies.

I have to admit I was a little disappointed when I opened it, but 2 days later I was happy with what I received. Turns out it was an advanced copy of Tesla Testament a novel by Eugene Ciurana. I normally wouldn’t start reading a book right before finals, but it wasn’t a case book and had Tesla in the title. That sparked my interest. I may be a law student now, but in my former life I was definitely a computer geek and a man-of-science.

So I flip the book over and read the description to make sure it’s not just a catchy title. Turns out Tesla Testament is a spy thriller based around Tesla’s works and a spy named Francis Montagnet. Ok, I think, maybe I’ll read a few pages. I was quite surprised to find out the book changes the back story to the Tunguska event, one of my favorite mysterious happenings, by the end of chapter one. That definitely grabbed my attention and as I said earlier it was done by the next night.

I don’t want to give away too much about the plot, but the book definitely held my attention through the whole read. The book follows Francis Montagnet’s quest to stop the Rebirth Alliance, a terrorist organization, from using Tesla’s works to create a new super weapon. Montagnet travels the globe in his quest to stop the Alliance, traversing numerous cities and countries. Of course, there’s a girl. A beautiful Russian girl no less.

I always figured a spy novel wouldn’t have much in the way of character development, but was presently surprised that Tesla Testament actually developed its characters. I really felt like I understood the characters by the end of the book. The descriptions of the numerous landscapes brought back memories of my trips through the Europe (ah, for pre-law school days again). The action scenes are well described, with a lot of kick boxing references. I have to admit, I liked the kick boxing, they reminded me of the Bloodsport movies. The only real issue I had with the book was the use of Islamic extremists as the villains. I’ve spent time in Islamic countries and as a result I have a lot of Muslim friends. I think they’ve been getting a bad rap, in the media, lately and would liked to have seen a different group being utilized. Otherwise, no complaints.

All in all, Tesla Testament is well written and has the right balance of science, technology, sex and action to make a believable plot. Some parts might be a little technical, but Mr. Ciurana provides explanations and I think that most readers should get by without issue. If you like Tesla and I hope you do, then you should check the book out.

In conclusion, it may not have been cookies, but it was still tasty. I’ve never read a spy novel, but I’ll definitely read another one. Now that finals are over.

Cheers,
Tyler