Greg Bear, known for his science-based horror novels, scores another hit with MARIPOSA, whose title refers to an experimental mind-expanding drug that has unpredictable side effects. The agents affected by the drug valiantly try to prevent a billionaire from seizing control of the American government at a time in the near future that is teetering on the edge of economic disaster. Charles Leggett helps keep the complicated plot moving with a powerful voice that is rich with sincerity and, occasionally, menace. Toss in the voice of a computer named Jones Zero, which may or may not be on the side of good, and Leggett has his work cut out for him. M.S. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine

In bestseller Bear's intriguing near-future thriller, a powerful financier stands ready to seize control of America as the nation teeters on the brink of economic collapse. The Texas-based Talos Corp., helmed by CEO Axel Price, specializes in security technology software and the training of mercenaries. Standing between Price and the downfall of America are a few hardy FBI agents, notably Rebecca Rose, one of the stars of the previous book in the series, Quantico. Besides the nefarious Price, dangers include a supercomputer, Jones Zero, that may or may not be acting on the side of justice, and the fact that Rebecca and others have been used as guinea pigs for a powerful mind- and body-altering drug, Mariposa. Under less capable hands, the extraordinarily complicated plot, numbers of characters and the constant explanations of future technologies might lead to terminal turgidity, but SF veteran Bear keeps everything whizzing right along to the slam-bang conclusion. (Nov.)