Story Behind The Book
The Salacia Project is an action-packed thrill ride that races along the bleeding edges of technology and covert operations. Set in the near future, the Salacia Project begins with a harrowing covert helicopter ride through the mountains of Afghanistan, and ends with a spectacular gun battle between US and Chinese intelligence operatives in Virginia. The Salacia technology, over which these two nations are fighting, could keep US naval forces and the land-based military units they support indomitable for decades. Developed by a brilliant young researcher at the Byrstol Foundation, the technology essentially “moves water out of the way” of ships as they traverse the open sea, essentially doubling their speed. But if it falls into enemy hands, it could cost America its naval superiority in a matter of months. US and Chinese intelligence communities are pitted against one another in a winner-takes-all contest of wits and firepower. Murders, assassinations, kidnappings, and daring rescues sweep the reader along in a high-stakes adventure filled with intrigue and moral dilemmas.
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Reviews
<p>Alexander Saenz Review: (5 out of 5 Stars)</p> <p> "Bill Duncan’s new page-turner, The Salacia Project is a fast-paced suspense novel that combines elements of thriller, espionage, spy and drama to deliver gripping tale readers won’t be able to put down.</p> <p> The non-stop action travels the globe from Washington, DC to Afghanistan, incorporating brave American champions, Afghan action, even Chinese double agents. All in a race to see who can be the first to utilize the advanced technology of the Salacia Project, a secret Defense Department project in which atoms are split to provide ships and submarines the ability to travel twice as fast in half the time and at half the cost.</p> <p> American hero, Benjamin Dawson, makes his debut here. Instantly likeable, Dawson is all USA. He is tough, resourceful and impossible to keep down. Readers will cheer him on as he navigates seemingly impossible hurdles to protect national interests. Supporting characters, including former and current special military forces personnel, technology scientists-- even a Middle Eastern humanitarian doctor-- set the stage for readers to believe in Dawson and support his mission.</p> <p> Beware however, no character is safe and no character is trust worthy. This is, in fact, the best part of The Salacia Project. The landscape in which these characters perform changes constantly. Good guys are actually bad guys that turn out to be good guys after all…until such time as they demonstrate themselves to be bad guys again. Apparently dangerous situations reveal themselves to be secure set-ups and just when it appears that the situation is safe is when all Hell breaks loose. Every page contains a twist and every twist keeps readers glued to the page to discover if and how it will all work out.</p> <p> Bill Duncan’s writing ability is showcased by his attention to detail creating a timely tale which is detail specific and incorporates minute references to current global conditions taken tight from today’s headlines.. Readers will recognize allusions to 9-11, private security firms in the Middle East, even landmarks and businesses in Washington, DC. These references help enormously to shape a believable story that is currently relevant and to which readers can relate.</p> <p> In the end, The Salacia Project is just a great read. The novel is quick and smart and promises its readers likeable characters to believe in and a great adventure to follow. The Salacia Project is not only timely and relevant, it is fun!"</p>