Cyberjihad

Cyberjihad, Robert Lanzone, AuthorHouse, 2005

Unbeknownst to the average person, the world is run by a group of interconnected computer networks called the Control Grid, or the Global Security Network. It runs everything from stock markets to America's missile defense shield.

Kyle Pemberton is a Wall Street IT whiz. He takes on a special overseas assignment at his firm after the death of his friend, and predecessor, under mysterious circumstances. Kyle notices that one of the firm's freelance consultants is acting strangely, so he, electronically, follows the consultant. After running into the Control Grid, Kyle enlists friends and colleagues to launch an incursion into the shadowy world of networks and communication lines.

The group attracts the attention of Cyberjihad, of which the consultant is a member, a terrorist organization trying a different approach to destabilize the world's security and economy. They have released a sort of super-virus into the Grid. It grows and grows, sucking up more and more of the Grid's computing power, until, for instance, the decision needs to be made to shut down America's missile shield, or let it collapse due to lack of computer power to keep it operational. The terrorists attempt to use the Control Grid to eliminate Kyle and friends, bringing about an international crisis.

I really enjoyed this novel. It is very much of a modern-day, high-tech thriller in the Tom Clancy mold. This story has "movie" written all over it. For anyone who wants an exciting, action-packed read, this is very much worth the time.