Contagious    by Scott Sigler Order:  USA  Can Crown, 2008 (2008) Hardcover, CD, e-Book     Reviewed by Alex Telander Scott Sigler began his writing career by recording podcasts of his books and attracting the interest and support of listeners around the world. This eventually landed him a publishing contract. After the success of last year's Infected, Sigler quickly followed up with the sequel Contagious. It looks like the world is pretty much doomed. The aliens have invaded and they're slowly taking over by infecting people on the genetic level with a virus that grows and takes over the body. Symptoms of the virus including indicators of the common cold, as well as the apparent need to kill your fellow man for no apparent reason, and some scary looking blue triangles. Humanity's hope rests on the shoulders of former football star Perry Dawsey who was actually infected, but under the skillful hands of Margaret Montoya, was brought back from psychopathic insanity, albeit agonizingly. Dawsey now has the ability to know where the aliens are mounting a new offensive, but he is a reckless killer who gives new meaning to the term loose cannon. Sigler has a specific over the top style, holding nothing back. His characters are loud, large, overbearing, and not for those looking for finesse. But this world is a tough place, and you have to be tough to make it through. It's all about balancing the costs: how much are human lives worth? Under the government of a new President, decisions have to be made, quickly, with little time to consider repercussions. It is, after all, the end of the world. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more SF books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews