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Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Early This Morning by Darrell Berry kicks off with Major General Andy Wells, who oversees a covert mission involving a unit of predominantly homosexual soldiers, led by Lieutenant Colonel Trent Barnes. Trent begins to question the unique composition of his team and the unusual medical treatments they're receiving as they head to Tiva. There, they investigate biological agents being developed, but Trent becomes increasingly suspicious of a hidden agenda. The plot thickens when an individual becomes involved in a conspiracy to sabotage the mission, planting explosives on planes. As Trent uncovers the depth of the operation, he realizes that high-ranking officials, including Wells, are part of the cover-up. With growing dissent and danger mounting, Trent and his team must expose the truth behind a web of espionage, biological warfare, and betrayal.
Early This Morning by Darrell Berry has a singular and strong angle that leans into a unit of soldiers whose enemy appears to be those people directing their mission. I love novels that take up the banner of biological warfare given that it, alongside the hacking of technology, is the future of combat. Berry does a great job of building on the mystery and impact of Agent Z, a substance that causes paralysis without actually affecting vital functions. Who is it for? What is its purpose? Berry’s sharp writing allows readers to gradually understand the mechanics of the biochemistry involved while still keeping the action going. The characters are well-rounded, and Trent in particular qualifies as a dynamic presence. Overall, this is a thoughtful and well-executed piece, offering both suspense, military bravado, and corruption for fans of speculative fiction. Very highly recommended.
