Dataman

Rating:
Summary: A unique and compelling protagonist
Review: Is it a man? Is it a plane? It's not Superman, but is it a superhero? He is DATAMAN, a seemingly ordinary person who has the extraordinary ability to obtain computer-driven answers for his client. His alter ego is Tom Walkinshow and he is known for his vast range of problem solving abilities. He can find missing persons, uncover fraud, and locate computer viruses all with the touch of his mouse.

Even the police can be counted on as a client for Tom. A serial killer is murdering taggers (public graffiti painters) and the law enforcement officials are completely lost as to his identity. The city is in a total uproar over this individual's harsh retaliation of taggers. While simultaneously working on this and two other cases, DATANAN still has time to fret over whether his current lover will betray him like his former spouse once did.

Tom Mitcheltree has a unique voice that imbues in his male protagonist, sensitivity rarely seen in a novel even as the hero tries to disguise it by acting tough and never giving up. This makes the character someone who women will care about and men will root for as he goes about his life. The author's sardonic wit and the smooth story line which includes easy understanding of information technology help turn the novel into a compelling experience for those who enjoy a laugh even when the action turns rough. Hopefully, this is the first of long running series starring a unique, zany and memorable hero.

Harriet Klausner