The New York Public Library. A silent sanctuary of knowledge; a 100-year-old labyrinth of towering bookcases, narrow aisles and long marble hallways. For Doctor Stephen Swain and his daughter, Holly, it is the site of a nightmare. Because for one night this historic building is to be the venue for a contest. A contest in which Swain is to compete - whether he likes it or not.The rules are simple: Seven contestants will enter, only one will leave. With his daughter in his arms, Stephen Swain is plunged into a terrifying fight for survival. The stakes are high, the odds brutal. He can choose to run, to hide or to fight - but if he wants to live, he has to win. For in this contest, unless you leave as the victor, you do not leave at all.
At the beginning of the book the author speaks about how this was one of his first books he wrote but did not publish. He chose to update and publish it after the success of two other books - which I read and enjoyed. He should have trusted his instincts the first time. This book is just flat out not good.
I realize it is science fiction, but the author failed to make it even remotely believable or interesting - and it could have been. He worked hard, and I mean hard, sometimes tediously so, to have the characters describe what was happening and why, but failed miserably.
The main character seemed to inexplicably and calmly accept the situation even though his life was in grave danger. Many obvious questions went unasked and I found it very frustrating.
If you are a fan of cheesy B movies on the Si-Fi channel you might like this book. Otherwise I suggest you pass. If you want to read a good book by this author read Ice Station.
