Gerry Anderson's Gemini Force One: Book 1: Black Horizon by M G Harris

Hachette, 2015. ISBN 9781444014068
An ode to Gerry Anderson, creator of Thunderbirds, Black Horizon by M G Harris is a fast paced, action filled debut novel fuelled by unlimited money and resources, incredible boy toys and characters who possess skills and courage in equal measure. There is also another dimension, one of pathos, tragedy and a hint of moral and ethical dilemmas to both shock and satisfy the reader.
Ben Carrington, the protagonist, is a sixteen year old rich kid who has it all - brains, athleticism, languages and a very powerful protector. But Ben is also dealing with tragedy and is trying to create a place where he, and his dog, Riguel, can belong.
This is an unusual novel. While it fulfils the criteria for fast paced, action filled adventure, where the good guys can outperform the baddies in terms of resources and skills, it also adds a very human dimension, which though often subtle, is nevertheless there.
It will be interesting to read the next book in the series to see if the promise of this one is realised.
R. Lange