If you enjoy military adventure thrillers, then this novel was written for you. Brown brings action, politics, technical details and more to this suspIf you enjoy military adventure thrillers, then this novel was written for you. Brown brings action, politics, technical details and more to this suspenseful techno-thriller. It’s the eighth book in the Patrick McLanahan series. The world is on the brink of war. Patrick has been sent to a unit in Nevada to develop and train a tactical strike unit designed to seek out and destroy enemy missiles. He’s looking for aggressive maverick pilots, but time runs out as the peace in Asia is shattered. Set mainly in and over the Korean peninsula, this novel does an excellent job handling the technical, military and political aspects of the story. The characters had a wide variety of depths and more was needed. Additionally, there is one question that didn’t get answered regarding an accident investigation. I wanted closure on this item.
Overall, this fast-paced, action-packed novel was compelling. The ending action scene is intense and memorable. The author’s military experience added an authentic feel to the flying experience.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was November 2, 1999. ---------------------------------------- My 4.02 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Mark Greaney brings together a contemporary topic, diverse characters, multiple settings, and plenty of action in the thirteenth novel in the Gray ManMark Greaney brings together a contemporary topic, diverse characters, multiple settings, and plenty of action in the thirteenth novel in the Gray Man series. In this latest book artificial intelligence leads to a shocking and alarming scenario. Someone is killing the world’s leading experts on artificial intelligence and robotics. Is it a tech company eliminating the competition, a country intent on military superiority, or something even more ominous?
The Gray Man - Court Gentry and Zoya Zakharova have assumed new identities and are living together in Guatemala. Both have governments and individuals as their enemies and are trying to keep a low profile. Unfortunately, that is about to change. They’re tracked down and offered a job by an acquaintance of Zoya’s. Despite rejecting the offer, being seen with him is enough to have assassins pursue them. On the run they realize that whoever wants them dead seems to be one step ahead of them. It’s time to fight back.
Court, a former CIA operative, is drawn to danger, misses making an impact, and suffers from insomnia. Zoya is motivated by causes and mainly wants to survive. There are a host of additional characters, but it was easy to keep track of them. Readers get various points of view throughout the novel with the initial chapters introducing many of them and their situations.
Greaney is an excellent storyteller who kept me on the edge of my seat with gripping scenes, action, a superb plot, and fantastic writing. In preparation for this series, he not only traveled to multiple countries but trained extensively in the use of firearms, battlefield medicine, and close-range combative tactics. The dynamic plot came alive and felt all too possible with real-world issues around artificial intelligence incorporated into the story highlighting the societal and political differences.
A constant sense of urgency, a state of uneasiness, and lots of action combined with great characters and a well-written plot make this suspenseful novel a must read. My only quibble was one aspect of the ending. However, this undoubtedly sets the stage for the next book in the series. Themes include artificial intelligence, deception, trust, industrial espionage, violence, differing political and social ideologies, murder, and much more.
Overall, this is a gripping, gritty, and chilling story with complex characters. It’s intense and dramatic and kept this reader turning the pages. I recommend this series to those who like political, action, and military thrillers. While this series is best read in order to fully understand the backstories of the main characters, this one worked as a standalone novel for me.
Berkley Publishing Group and Mark Greaney provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 20, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. --------------------------------------- My 4.2 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
What an action-packed military thriller! Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann and Ralph Pezzullo is the first book in the SEAL Team Six series and it is an eWhat an action-packed military thriller! Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann and Ralph Pezzullo is the first book in the SEAL Team Six series and it is an exhilarating and hair-raising novel. Featuring U.S. Navy Chief Warrant Officer Tom Crocker and several of his teammates. From a grueling mountain climbing training exercise to various nefarious plots that are unearthed, the team must dig deep to overcome everything that is thrown at them.
Crocker is straightforward, hardworking, and an elite soldier. He also has no patience for bureaucracy that impedes missions. The other characters are reasonably well developed.
As a former Navy SEAL, the author provides detail that ensures the novel feels authentic including the required mental, physical, and emotional toughness that is required. The story starts out strong, then eases up as readers become acquainted with the team and the plot is set-up. After that, it is action-filled, intense, suspenseful, and profound. While some of the scenes are over-the-top, I was along for the ride.
Overall, this is a riveting, dramatic, and frightening to think about novel that kept me engaged throughout. If you enjoy action-packed military thrillers, then this may be the series for you.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 26, 2012.
--------------------------------- My 4.1 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Breathtaking and electrifying are two of the words that come to mind as I think about Harm’s Way by John Gilstrap. This political thriller is the Breathtaking and electrifying are two of the words that come to mind as I think about Harm’s Way by John Gilstrap. This political thriller is the fifteenth book in the Jonathan Grave covert series. Twelve missionaries were abducted in a remote area of Venezuela and are being held for ransom. In a secret meeting, FBI Director Irene Rivers pleas with Jonathan Grave to mount a rescue mission with his team. While Jonathan, Boxers, and Gunslinger plan to infiltrate the enemy camp and rescue the hostages, Venice will be working from their company office as support. However, the mission changes as a world threat is revealed.
Grave loves his country. He’s great at making connections, planning, and adjusting as situations change. Political intrigue excites him. Readers can easily connect with him and root for the success of him and his team. Boxers, Gunslinger, and Venice do not show as much depth in this novel. However, I loved how the team connected to each other and their dialogue. Their chemistry added to my enjoyment of the novel. They have a strong sense of justice and a determination to succeed against overwhelming odds.
Gilstrap has a way of writing thrillers that immediately grab your attention. He’s an excellent storyteller who combines a creative plot with gripping scenes and plenty of action and suspense. The writing is fluid and has a few twists and turns. As danger became imminent, the suspense intensified. The unnerving and over-the-top conclusion will get readers’ hearts racing as they find out who survives. The final chapter wraps up some loose ends and hints that more adventures will be coming.
This high-octane novel was also very atmospheric. The author did a great job of painting the scenes and giving readers the ability to easily picture the scenes without slowing the pace. From the first chapter to the last, events come with a hectic and wild pace. There was a strong sense of urgency throughout the novel. While the novel switches points of view occasionally, it is mainly from that of Grave. Themes include abduction for ransom, corruption, influence peddling, betrayal, political maneuvering and intrigue, and more.
Overall, this briskly paced and explosive novel was tense, fast-paced, action-oriented, and scary to think about. While there are references to past missions, this novel can be read as a standalone. However, readers will be missing out on some background and character growth and changes over time. I recommend this to those who enjoy fantastic action novels.
Kensington Books, Pinnacle and John Gilstrap provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 22, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. --------------------------------------- My 4.41 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Steven Konkoly brings together diverse characters and an alarming scenario like few authors can. His third book in the Devin Gray series, Wide AwakSteven Konkoly brings together diverse characters and an alarming scenario like few authors can. His third book in the Devin Gray series, Wide Awake, kept me reading late into the night. Devin Gray and Marnie Young are trying to return to a normal life after taking out a sleeper network. However, violence and a potential for another sleeper network has them back at work. A plan to start a civil war in the United States is underway. Threats and violence escalate. Who is behind it and can it be stopped?
As always, this author brings characters to life, especially Devin and Marnie. They’re intelligent, patriotic, self-confident, strong, and bold. However, they also have some shortcomings that readers find as the story progresses and their natures and backstories become known to readers. It was also great to visit with old friends from the Black Flagged series.
The initial chapters introduce the various characters and situations from a border patrol incident to the protagonists to various antagonists and supporting characters. However, it took a while to determine how everyone fits into the story, which takes readers from Washington DC to multiple US states to a foreign country. This novel kept me captivated from the first page to its astonishing conclusion.
Konkoly is an outstanding storyteller who kept me on the edge of my seat with gripping scenes, action, a superb plot, and fantastic writing. His military background brings an authenticity to his thrillers. He does a great job of balancing the shocking action scenes against the intrigue of the conspiracy plot and the planning of countermeasures. The dynamic plot came alive and felt all too possible with real-world issues incorporated into the story highlighting the societal and political differences between individuals and countries.
Plenty of suspense, a constant sense of urgency, a state of disquietude, and lots of action combined with great characters and a well-written plot make this novel a must read for those who enjoy thrillers. Themes include conspiracy, violence, differing political and social ideologies, duty, leadership, organization, and coordination.
Overall, this was a gripping, gritty, and chilling story with complex characters. It’s intense and dramatic and kept this reader turning the pages. It’s also my favorite of the series. I would recommend it to those who enjoy political and military thrillers. This book works well as a standalone novel. However, the background and relationship dynamics are best fully understood by reading earlier novels in the series.
Thomas and Mercer and Steven Konkoly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 15, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------- My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Action, danger, intrigue, history, tension, and suspense are combined in the latest military thriller by Jonathan Maberry: Cave 13. This third booAction, danger, intrigue, history, tension, and suspense are combined in the latest military thriller by Jonathan Maberry: Cave 13. This third book in the Rogue Team International (RTI) series continues to feature Joe Ledger and Havoc Team. RTI are independent troubleshooters who sometimes tackle antagonists on their own and sometimes are asked for help from various countries. Once again, this is a dark and violent thriller with some interludes that are lighter. While most of the novel takes place in Jerusalem, Israel, readers also travel to the Republic of Chad, Greece, and the United States.
While this novel focuses on Joe and his dog Ghost, Havoc Team as well as Top Sims and Bunny. However, other colleagues play important roles that give the reader character continuity. While readers get insight into various antagonists throughout the novel, their specific roles and how everything fits together takes a while to be revealed. Joe is well-developed, compelling, and damaged. While he’s largely apolitical, an idealist, cynical, and has a gift for languages, he is also damaged and hasn’t been in the field for a year. Additionally, others don’t always appreciate his sense of humor.
Once again Maberry hooked me with the fascinating prologue than pulled me immediately into the story. While the plot does jump back and forth in time and between various points of view, it is largely from Joe’s perspective. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster.
For an action / military thriller, I loved the style that Maberry used. While there are comprehensive descriptions of people, places and gear, it doesn’t go into minute detail. I believe this approach will make this novel appeal to a wider audience. There are several twists and a big surprise that I didn’t see coming. While a lot was resolved in this book, the ending left a lot of loose threads. I would have liked to have at least some of those wrapped up in this novel.
Overall, this novel is a shockingly dark, disturbing, and an emotional ride. Be aware that there is plenty of violence and emotional turmoil in this story. Themes include fitness for duty, terrorism, found family, friendship, and much more.
This is the seventh book I have read by this author who writes in a variety of genres. I can’t wait to read another one by him. Maberry’s books are well-written with characters that have depth and there is an interesting plot where the story line pulls the reader in immediately. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers that are dark will want to read this book.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Griffin and Jonathan Maberry provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 29, 2023. --------------------------------------- My 4.26 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Don Bentley has created another action-packed and suspenseful novel, Forgotten War. This fourth book in the Matt Drake thriller series has an inteDon Bentley has created another action-packed and suspenseful novel, Forgotten War. This fourth book in the Matt Drake thriller series has an intensity that few writers can achieve. This book, which can be categorized as a political thriller, technothriller, and a military thriller has aspects of all three and is mainly set in Afghanistan and Texas. Matt Drake, Frodo Cates, and Frodo’s girlfriend Katherine are waiting on Matt’s wife Laila to arrive at a restaurant when Frodo is arrested by two members of the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division for a murder that took place 10 years ago in Afghanistan in 2011. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but Frodo isn’t talking. At the same time, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan is occurring.
Matt is full of wit and sarcasm, and has an aptitude for languages. He wants to make the world safer and often sacrifices his own well-being to achieve this. He shows character growth despite the large amount of action in this novel, which I’ve come to expect from this author. The other characters have a variety of depths in their supporting or opposing roles. Some are new to the series and others provide the reader continuity with the prior books in the series.
Fluid writing, great characterization, and fantastic world building, as well as an excellent, fast-paced plot will keep readers engaged. It takes a little while for readers to understand how the strong prologue fits in with the rest of the story. However, pay close attention to it. There is also some shifting in time between 2021 and 2011. Despite this, the action and drama are compelling . While there are descriptions of weapons and gear, it is only enough to engage the reader. I believe this approach makes Bentley’s novels appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, this fantastic novel is shocking, emotionally-charged, and riveting. Be aware that there is plenty of danger, death, intrigue, and violence in this story. Additionally, with the current situation and the actual 2021 events in Afghanistan, this one seemed very realistic. There are a few threads that were left open for the next book in the series, but the main plot line is fully resolved. Themes include political maneuvering, teamwork, friendship, bravery, patriotism, war, honor, differences in operational philosophies, murder, and much more.
This is the second book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back and reading the first two. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers will want to read this book. The author’s note at the end of the novel provided some additional insight on the fall of Afghanistan and where the book diverges from actual events.
Berkley Publishing Group and Don Bentley provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 25, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------------- My 4.66 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Tension, protection for a diplomatic mission, and alien species kickstart an excellent book by Jack Campbell: Implacable. Admiral John Black Jack Tension, protection for a diplomatic mission, and alien species kickstart an excellent book by Jack Campbell: Implacable. Admiral John Black Jack Geary’s Alliance fleet has been sent to protect a diplomatic mission to the territory belonging to the Dancers. The Dancers are called that due to their movements. They resemble spiders with a wolf’s head and their intentions are unknown. When another alien species with superior technology arrives, the mission becomes even more complicated. However, the most serious danger comes when Admiral Geary is presented with orders that he believes are contrary to the ideals of the Alliance. Will he obey them or risk tearing apart the Alliance and endangering his fleet?
It was amazing to see Admiral Geary respond to events as they occurred. His outlook on the Alliance as well as the fleet he is responsible for is always clear. He is viewed as a hero by many, but some of his actions in this novel are questioned by some of his fleet officers. Many characters brim with personality. But which of their agendas are for the good of all and which ones are self-serving?
This book is the third one in The Lost Fleet: Outlands series. There are several other subseries in the The Lost Fleet collection as well. Since this is the first book I have read by this author, it took me a short while to get into the story and understand who was who. There are many characters in this novel, but several have been in prior books. If you’ve read them, it will likely be easy to reconnect with old friends.
The plot is twisty with harrowing scenes, plenty of layers, thought-provoking instances, and a larger-than-life protagonist. The multiple conflicts and the diplomatic challenges move the story forward rapidly. Relationships, power, knowledge, and understanding others who are different play varying roles in this tense science fiction thriller. A new threat seems to lurk around every corner. Trying to understand the fallout from the actions of Admiral Geary, aliens, and other Alliance officers expanded the story and kept me turning the pages. While many of the threads in this story line are brought to a satisfactory conclusion, there are some things left to be revealed in the next book in the series.
Overall, this is a tense and exciting science fiction thriller that kept me on an emotional rollercoaster. It was engaging, atmospheric, and suspenseful and did a great job of keeping me hooked. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I recommend reading this series in order. Enthusiasts of space exploration science fiction thrillers will likely enjoy this novel.
Berkley Publishing Group – Ace and Jack Campbell provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for July 04, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------- My 3.91 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The Draka & The Giant by Liane Zane is the third and final book in the Elioud Legacy series and the third one that I have read by this author. TheThe Draka & The Giant by Liane Zane is the third and final book in the Elioud Legacy series and the third one that I have read by this author. The author brings action, attraction, and suspense to a new paranormal romantic suspense urban fantasy thriller. The novel is largely set in the Czech Republic and Albania with some side trips to France, Poland, and Belarus.
Three years ago, Alzbeta (Beta) Cerna, an officer in the Czech military intelligence learned she is one of a hybrid race tasked to protect humanity. After Andras Nagy saves her life during a failed mission, she leaves and something dark is after her. In her intelligence job, she is sent on a three-year-deep-cover assignment. Andras is heartbroken at Beta’s disappearance. When he is tracking a group of dark individuals, he picks up Beta’s scent. Beta and Andras are dynamic characters that transform during the course of the storyline. Several characters from the previous books play key roles in this story.
This trilogy needs to be read in order. Readers that start with this novel will lack much needed context and background. The opening is strong and intriguing and pulls the reader into the story. The prose was well-written and engrossing. Despite being fast-paced with plenty of action interspersed with some time to get to know the main characters, it is also vividly descriptive without slowing down the pace. However, there were a couple of instances when the scenes switched focus on characters that affected the pacing. The ending is dramatic, with lots of tension and suspense.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and entertaining read. Themes include supernatural abilities, betrayal, jealousy, friendship, trust, secrets, romance, and much more inside a story line of good versus evil. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Liane Zane provided a complimentary copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
------------------------------- My 3.98 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon. ...more
What a fantastic debut novel by T.R. Hendricks! The Instructor is the first book in the military action thriller series featuring Derek HarringtonWhat a fantastic debut novel by T.R. Hendricks! The Instructor is the first book in the military action thriller series featuring Derek Harrington. Derek is a retired Marine who has had trouble adjusting to civilian life. After 22 years in service and five years after his retirement, his life is a mess. Teaching wilderness survival classes is inadequate to sustain his expenses including supporting his ex-wife Kim and son Michael. Additionally, his father needs more care than he can give him.
When a student offers him the opportunity to instruct a private group for 30 days in upstate New York, Derek reluctantly accepts the job. This leads to a new offer to him from their leader, Marshal. When something feels off about the offer, and after reaching out to an FBI contact, Derek accepts the offer and goes undercover.
Derek is very capable, but suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and nature is his sanctuary. Despite this, he continues to occasionally suffer flashbacks. He loves his ex-wife and son, but has anger issues. His knowledge of survival off the land, evasion, resistance, and escape methods is unparalleled. Marshal is a charismatic leader that is also a manipulator, but while his character didn’t change over the course of the book, he was memorable. Many of the other characters came to life as well.
Hendricks does a great job on world building. The plot and writing style immediately pulled me into the story and did not let up until the final paragraph was read. The deeply involved plot has several twists and turns and the setting was incredibly vivid. The novel includes a lot of details on wilderness survival as well as punishing training exercises to meet the second job offer’s objectives. Some discussion of weapons occurs as well, but not as much as in some military thrillers. My one quibble is that there were a couple of slower spots, but Derek likely needed them as much as many readers will.
The author is a wonderful storyteller and I found myself progressing effortlessly through the narrative. The most intense action is in the last third of the book. Hendricks balances the shocking and upsetting aspects of the novel well against the mystery of the group he’s training and Derek’s love of his family. Themes include death, anger, power, fear, money, manipulation, trust, lies, politics, and much more.
Overall, this exciting debut novel is a powerful page-turner with great world-building details and tension that was almost alive. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Tor Publishing Group, Forge Books and T. R. Hendricks provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for April 11, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------------- My 4.67 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Simon Gervais has a way of starting his novels with a shocking and powerful opening scene. His first novel in the Blackbriar series, Robert Ludlum’Simon Gervais has a way of starting his novels with a shocking and powerful opening scene. His first novel in the Blackbriar series, Robert Ludlum’s The Blackbriar Genesis is no different. Action, suspense, treachery, and intrigue keep this novel moving at a terrific pace. It has aspects of espionage, political, and military thrillers. While set mostly in the Czech Republic and Egypt, readers also travel to Greece, North Macedonia, Mexico, and the United States. This series is within the Jason Bourne universe.
A car explosion in Prague causes the death of an undercover Treadstone agent. While this can happen agents in the field, none of his superiors know why he was in Prague instead of Switzerland. Two Blackbriar operatives, Helen Jouvert and Donovan Wade, are in the region and are sent to investigate. While Treadstone is a covert clandestine assassination group, Blackbriar focuses on covert counterintelligence, counterespionage, and intelligence gathering activities.
While there are several characters in this novel, the focus is on Helen, Donovan, and their boss, Oliver Manton. While all the main characters had depth, I felt Helen was the most dynamic. She’s the team leader, multi-lingual, has great investigating skills and hand-to-hand fighting skills. She’s also competitive and his good instincts, but lacks the experience Donovan has in a firefight. Donovan is a good partner, thinks fast, and keeps his past private, but can be tough to read. Oliver is still adjusting to his new role. Readers get some insights into how he got the position as well as how he treats those reporting to him.
This suspenseful and action-filled story moves at a blistering pace. The author’s military and federal experiences are reflected in well-crafted action situations and counter-surveillance activities that felt authentic. Each rapidly turned page provided new thrills and danger. The ultimate threat to be thwarted felt extremely realistic in today’s world. My one quibble with the story was the multiple missions Helen and Donovan experienced back-to-back. I felt their lack of downtime would have made them less effective than they actually were.
Overall, this is novel was riveting, fast-paced, and engaging. If you enjoy espionage or military thrillers with strong lead characters, then this may be the series for you. The combination of a thought-provoking and convincing story line, pulse-activating action, breakneck speed, and terrific global settings makes this an intoxicating novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was October 18, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. -------------------------------------------- My 4.02 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
In the second book of the Artillerymen series, Taylor Anderson brings amazing world-building and characterization to this action-packed and suspensefuIn the second book of the Artillerymen series, Taylor Anderson brings amazing world-building and characterization to this action-packed and suspenseful novel. It’s 1847 and almost a year after four ships carrying Americans heading to Vera Cruz, Mexico were caught in a storm and shipwrecked on an alternative Earth. Instead of fighting in the Mexican-American war, they are fighting for their lives against both monster animals and humans. This series is set in the same world as the Destroyermen series.
Lewis Cayce and his group of artillerymen, infantrymen, and mounted riflemen have made friends in the Yucatan and built an army. This also repulsed the Holy Dominion army that was intent on killing their new allies. However, a more radical cult of Blood Priests has arisen. They pursue power and blood sacrifices. Cayce understands that the only option is offense, not defense. Outnumbered and less diabolical, can courage, trust, and imagination outwit and overcome the enemy?
The characters are complex and come to life through their words, actions, movements, thoughts, reactions, and mannerisms. There are many characters and it will help to read the first book in the series to have a handle on the core characters ahead of this novel. It was especially enjoyable to see the significant growth in both the main and several of the secondary characters.
The plot twists and turns with some unpredictable moments in the story. Beliefs, worldviews, and prejudices come under assault. Many live in fear of sacrifice. Ultimately, this is a fight between goodness, light, justice, tolerance, and equality versus evil, darkness, sacrifice, and a class system. Despite there being many battles in this novel, there is adequate time for great characterization and world-building.
The book is moving and suspenseful at times, and violent and disturbing at other times. As the tale unfolds, this reader became mentally and emotionally involved with the characters as well as the story itself. The stakes were high and made this vivid and memorable novel a true page-turner for me in. Additional themes woven into the story include protecting others, politics, power, greed, gender roles in war, and relationships of all types.
Overall, this story is engrossing, intense, and impactful. This book has a high level of tension and foreboding. The Epilogue sets up the next book in the series. Those that enjoy alternative history military thrillers or the Destroyermen series will likely enjoy this novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Berkley Publishing Group –Ace and Taylor Anderson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for September 27, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------- My 3.52 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
Steven Konkoly’s final book in the core Black Flagged series is shocking, suspenseful, and pulse-activating. It has aspects of both political and miliSteven Konkoly’s final book in the core Black Flagged series is shocking, suspenseful, and pulse-activating. It has aspects of both political and military thrillers as well as an action-adventure thriller and is the sixth book in the series.
This book picks up immediately after the fifth book and pits General Terrance Sanderson’s remaining operatives and an odd assortment of allies against a plot to reshape the country in the image of a newly elected, third party administration. This party is actually a domestic terrorist organization pretending to be a third party political movement. A complicated operation is the only way to end the madness of the fringe fanatics’ antics. Is it even possible? Who can be trusted? It’s been five years since the fifth book in the series was printed. For those that want a recap, there is a summary of each of the previous books at the end of this one. A much-needed character list is also provided.
This series is mainly about covert operations overseen by General Terrence Sanderson. At one time, they were funded by the United States. However, defunding his organization didn’t stop him from protecting the country. He found other sources of funding for their activities, even when he had to flee the USA. This book is mainly set in Virginia, Mexico, Washington D.C., Texas, and Vermont. It is exactly what you would expect from a well-written action thriller with lots of concern over how to protect one’s country.
Due to the large number of characters in the book, it helps to read this series in order. That way, a reader is not learning all of the secondary characters at once, but gradually over time. Readers will see General Sanderson change over the course of this sixth novel. There is even a little humor sprinkled in towards the end of the novel. However, the focus is on action and not character development in this one. Despite this, the main characters in Sanderson’s group come across as fiery, bold, and intense.
This novel kept me captivated from the first page to its astounding conclusion. The plot is deeply involved with several twists to the story, although many of the activities are over-the-top. It was so full of action and excitement that it kept me turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. At the same time, it was somewhat unsettling when you examine the thoughts, behaviors, and actions of many of those in power politically. I was kept fully invested in the mission becoming a success. But is that what happens?
Konkoly continues to bring great characters, entertaining story lines, and lots of action together in exhilarating novels. The gripping scenes and great plot kept me on the edge of my seat. He has become one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading more from him.
Overall, this book was suspenseful, riveting, fast-paced, action-oriented, and entertaining. This final book in the series was worth the wait. If you enjoy action thrillers that have both strong male and female characters, then this may be the series for you.
Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was June 28, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
Don Bentley infuses Hostile Intent, the third book in the Matt Drake thriller series, with action, travel, suspense, and an intensity like few othDon Bentley infuses Hostile Intent, the third book in the Matt Drake thriller series, with action, travel, suspense, and an intensity like few others can achieve. This book, which can be categorized as an espionage thriller, a political thriller, and a military thriller as it has aspects of all three, is set largely in Ukraine and Austria, but there are key scenes in Washington D.C. and Russia as well. Matthew Drake and his wife Laila are at a shooting range when his boss calls. Matt is a Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) case officer who runs and recruits assets all over the world. A walk-in to the US embassy in Vienna, Austria claims he has critical information about a Russian intelligence operation. He asks for Matt by name, not by one of his aliases. Before he can debrief Nolan Burke, a Russian team kidnaps Nolan.
Matt is full of wit and sarcasm, but he has a serious side. He wants to make the world safer and often sacrifices his own well-being to achieve this. He shows character growth despite the large amount of action in this novel, which pleasantly surprised me. The other characters have a variety of depths in their supporting or opposing roles. Some are new to the series and others provide the reader continuity with the prior books in the series.
Fluid writing and fantastic world building, as well as an excellent, fast-paced plot will keep readers engaged. The first three chapters pique your interest while chapter four grabs readers and immerses them in the story. At this point, the action and drama are so compelling the pages nearly turn themselves. I was on a rollercoaster of action and emotion. While there are descriptions of weapons and gear, it is only enough to engage the reader. I believe this approach will make this novel appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, this novel is a shockingly dark, disturbing, suspenseful, and emotional ride. Be aware that there is plenty of danger, intrigue, and violence in this story. Additionally, with the current situation in Ukraine, this one seemed all too realistic. Themes include bureaucratic wars, teamwork, spies, political maneuvering, corruption, graft, differences in operational philosophies, friendship, loss of face, the impact of social media, and much more.
This is the first book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back and reading the first two. I believe those readers who enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers will want to read this book.
Berkley Publishing Group and Don Bentley provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for May 3, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------- Review to be posted in the week prior to publication per publisher guidelines....more
The Last Protector by Simon Gervais has a powerful and shocking start, but it doesn’t stop there. Action, suspense, treachery, and intrigue keep tThe Last Protector by Simon Gervais has a powerful and shocking start, but it doesn’t stop there. Action, suspense, treachery, and intrigue keep this novel moving at a terrific pace. When powerful men and women do shocking things, is there anyone that can stop them? The novel has aspects of espionage, political, business, and military thrillers as well as settings that include Afghanistan, Iraq, South Africa, North Carolina, Texas, California, Virginia, and Washington D.C. It is exactly what you would expect from a well-written action thriller with lots of concern over how to protect one’s loved ones as well as some information on weapons and gear.
Clayton White is a former air force combat rescue officer that is now working for the Secret Service and leading the protection detail for the Veronica Hammond, the daughter of the vice-president-elect of the United States. She is also his secret girlfriend. When she becomes the target of a group of mercenaries, Clayton encounters lies, secrets, and unexpected foes. Who can he trust besides Veronica?
Clayton and Veronica are both likeable characters, but Clayton has more depth, which is natural for the main character of a series. His courage, valor, and loyalty, as well as his fair treatment of others gains him respect from his team and superiors. His flaws seem to be few except for accepting some things as fact without double-checking them. I hope that both of them gain depth as the series progresses. Readers do not get a sense of their lives when they are relaxing. Many of the other characters are well-drawn for their roles and some are unforgettable.
Part One is set six years ago and is short, but important. This opening is strong and has memorable scenes that immediately pulled this reader into the story. A narrative that is suspenseful and action-filled through-out moves at a blistering pace. The author’s military and federal experiences are reflected in the well-crafted action situations that felt genuine.
Short chapters are full of action, difficult choices, and betrayals. The story line is somewhat straightforward with a clear sense of good versus evil. My biggest quibble is that the ending felt rushed; especially near the ending in South Africa. Additionally, in one of the scenes, one of the “bad guys” made a mistake that did not seem in character for him. However, it was so full of action and excitement that it kept me turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. I was kept fully invested in the mission becoming a success.
Overall, this book was suspenseful, riveting, fast-paced, and entertaining. If you enjoy espionage or military thrillers with a strong lead character, then this may be the series for you. The combination of an entertaining story line and lots of action makes this an intoxicating novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication was November 1, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------- My 4 star review of this espionage and military thriller will be posted 3-4 days after it appears in Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson were asked to carry on W.E.B. Griffin’s Presidential Agent series. With Rogue Agent, the ninth in the series, theBrian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson were asked to carry on W.E.B. Griffin’s Presidential Agent series. With Rogue Agent, the ninth in the series, they bring the suspense and stimulation to action adventure that a reader would expect in a political and military thriller. However, there’s more happening than immediately meets the eyes.
President Natalie Cohen doesn’t have any good options when Secretary of State Frank Malone is kidnapped in Cairo and his security detail killed. Working with her Director of National Intelligence, Marty Fleiss, they decide to resurrect the Presidential Agent program and want Charley Castillo to come out of retirement to recruit, mentor, and manage the next presidential agent. This resource would report to Fleiss and Cohen only. Charley didn’t know they had already selected the candidate, Captain P. K. “Pick” McCoy. With this shaky start, the search for Malone gets underway.
This is a book that grabs your attention and fully hooks a reader before the first chapter ends. The thriller is mainly set in Africa and features Charley and Pick and their team as they learn to work together as they go up against terrorists. It’s exactly what you would expect from a well-written military action thriller with political nuances.
There was more character development than I expected in this novel for both Charley and Pick. They each have depth and some faults that play into the story line. However, each showed a tremendous amount of growth. What a reader doesn’t get is what they are truly like in the down time between missions and what their hopes and dreams are for the future. Likely readers will gain more insight as the series continues.
The authors brought a strong sense of place to the events in the book allowing me to easily visualize the settings. The action somehow managed to seem plausible even though it was definitely extreme. The writing style kept me engaged throughout the novel. The sub-plots tie together well. The story does include some of the weapons and gear discussions that are typical of this type of book, but it is not overdone. For those that need to know, there is a great deal of violence in the book. There is also some discussion of politics in Africa and between intelligence agencies. Other themes focus on teamwork, honor, courage, commitment, integrity, respect, and much more that doesn’t detract from the story, but adds depth.
Overall, this book was an action-filled, heart-pounding thriller that is entertaining, fast-paced, and thought-provoking. The high stakes made it a page turner. It’s the second novel that I have read in the series. If you enjoy military thrillers, action adventure thrillers, this series, or other novels by these authors, then you may enjoy this one as much as I did.
PENGUIN GROUP Putnam – G. P. Putnam’s Sons and the authors provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 7, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
The Elimination Threat by Michael Laurence is a well-written, engrossing, and scary-to-think-about technothriller with a conspiracy angle, some scThe Elimination Threat by Michael Laurence is a well-written, engrossing, and scary-to-think-about technothriller with a conspiracy angle, some science, and a dash of history. It is the third book in the Extinction Agenda series and picks up soon after the end of book two, The Annihilation Protocol. FBI Special Agent James Mason is meeting with his partner Special Agent Jessica Layne, an old friend, Gunnar Backstrom who is a computer and hacking expert, and Ramses Donovan, owner of a private night club with a lot of international connections.
A syndicate known only as the Thirteen has been infiltrating governments and businesses for centuries. After narrowly preventing a major disaster in book two, Mason and his friends are now facing a mass murderer known as the Dragon. Facing a mysterious weapon and the additional threat of nuclear destruction, can the team make the necessary connections in time to prevent more deaths? Who are the Thirteen and will the team find them?
There wasn’t a lot of time to see the private side of Mason, but there were a few glimpses that added depth and warmth to his character. However, I would like a little more insight. The supporting characters were an odd assortment that enhanced the story line and the partnership with Layne added a needed dimension to the book. The unique personalities provided balance and interplay.
A very complex story line with several sub-plots kept me turning the pages. Enough was at stake to keep me engaged throughout the book. Depth in the science and financial part of the tale gives it extra realism. The world-building was absolutely fantastic and gave a clear sense of time and place. While the main mystery and issues were resolved in the book, there are several open threads for future books in the series. Will you be able to make the necessary connections to determine what is going on before Mason and his team?
Readers should be aware that there are also several detailed technical discussions of innovative weapons as well as financial and energy related topics and some very graphic, horrifying scenes. Additional themes include cults, revenge, family, friendship, international politics, and monetary policies.
Overall, the plot was chilling, dramatic, electrifying, and well-paced with lots of action and a twist at the end that I didn’t expect. I would recommend it to those that enjoy complex conspiracy-driven techno-thrillers. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Michael Laurence for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for August 24, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
Steel Fear by Brandon Webb and John David Mann is suspenseful, gripping, and intense military thriller set on board the USS Abraham Lincoln. A helSteel Fear by Brandon Webb and John David Mann is suspenseful, gripping, and intense military thriller set on board the USS Abraham Lincoln. A helicopter crew from the aircraft carrier picks up Chief Finn, a combat decorated SEAL, in Bahrain. Finn is being sent back to the United States on ‘special assignment’ which can mean debrief, disgrace, or worse. However, once Finn is aboard, he notices that morale is low. Then, crew members begin disappearing. Is it suicide or something much worse?
Finn is a well-developed character with courage, resilience, and great observation skills. However, he is also experiencing memory lapses and doesn’t feel comradery like others do. This ups the impact and intrigue as the story unfolds. There is a wide range of supporting characters that provide conflict and interest.
The story started out strong, but got even better as the characters became better known and the action amps up. The last half was excellently paced and kept this reader fully engaged. It was interesting to see the different methods and steps taken in the investigations of the same events. There are some red herrings and a twist or two. While the ending brings the reader closure on most things, there is one important item that isn’t fully resolved.
Those that enjoy military crime novels and locked room mysteries will likely enjoy this novel. It was not a light read, but it was well written and atmospheric. Will this be the first novel in a new series featuring Chief Finn? With high stakes, great characterization, and plenty of action; I certainly hope so.
Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine, Brandon Webb, and John David Mann provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for August 24, 2021....more
Relentless by Jonathan Maberry is the second book in Rogue Team International (RTI) series featuring Joe Ledger. He is no longer with the DepartmeRelentless by Jonathan Maberry is the second book in Rogue Team International (RTI) series featuring Joe Ledger. He is no longer with the Department of Military Sciences, but leading a team of independent troubleshooters, Havoc Team that is part of RTI. This is one of the darkest military thrillers that I have read in a long time. Suppose multiple people important to you were murdered. What would that do to your psyche which was already damaged? Read this novel and you will find out how Joe handles the situation.
While this novel focuses on Joe and his dog Ghost, Havoc Team and other colleagues play important roles that give the reader character continuity. The killers are known. The key is how to find them and that journey takes the reader to Europe, Indonesia, South Africa, Antarctica, and North America. Joe is well-developed, compelling, and damaged. His motivation is believable and well-drawn, but I had a hard time with many of his actions in this book. The secondary characters enhance the story and the relationships are believable.
Chapter one hooked me. Chapter two and beyond was so vivid and compelling I felt like I was with the characters, but grateful that I was safe in my home. The story immediately pulls the reader in and never lets him or her off the rollercoaster of action and emotion.
For an action / military thriller, I loved the style that Maberry used. While there are comprehensive descriptions of clothing, people, places and gear involving black market weapons sales, private military contractors, cybernetics, body armor, chemical enhancements, and bioweapons, it doesn’t go into minute detail. I believe this approach will make this novel appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, this novel is a shockingly dark, disturbing, and emotional ride. Be aware that there is plenty of violence and emotional turmoil in this story. An old arch-enemy reappears as well setting up possible threads in future novels. Themes include revenge, anger, grief, murder, PTSD, greed, good versus evil, cyber terrorism, and cyber espionage as well as friendship, love, compassion, honesty, loyalty, and brotherhood/sisterhood relationships.
This is the only the third book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back and reading the original Joe Ledger series. This author’s books are well-written with characters that have depth and there is an interesting plot where the story line pulls the reader in immediately. I believe those readers that enjoy action thrillers and military thrillers that are dark will want to read this book.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Griffin and Jonathan Maberry provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for July 13, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
SAS: Red Notice by Andy McNab is a book that grabs your attention with the prologue and has you fully hooked in the first chapter. It is a crime aSAS: Red Notice by Andy McNab is a book that grabs your attention with the prologue and has you fully hooked in the first chapter. It is a crime action adventure mainly set in England and the English Channel that features a SAS soldier and his teammates who go up against terrorists. It’s also the first book in the Tom Buckingham series. The realism is given credibility by the author’s own experience as a member of the B Squadron of the 22 SAS Regiment working on both covert and overt operations worldwide.
Protagonist Sergeant Tom Buckingham is off-duty and winds up on the Eurostar to Paris when terrorists take its 400 passengers as hostage. What follows is lots of action along with some heartbreak, intrigue, and bravery. The reader gets a good sense of Tom’s character over the course of the book. He has depth, some faults that play into the story line, and makes for a great lead. We also get a good feel for the antagonist, Lazlo Antonov. What has shaped his personality and actions? A variety of secondary characters have varying degrees of depth that lent a genuineness to them. The author brought a strong sense of place to the events in the book. The action somehow managed to seem plausible even though it was definitely extreme. Additionally, many questions came to my mind? What are people capable of doing? What pushes people to do the things they do? What impact does political maneuvering have during a crisis? What are people willing to do to conceal past actions or inactions? What happens when politicians are so focused on giving plausibility and conviction to potential future denials of knowledge?
The writing style kept me engaged throughout the novel. It does include some of the weapons, ammunition, and gear discussions that are typical of this type of book, but it is not overdone. For those that need to know, there is a great deal of violence in the book. My main quibble with the book was the abrupt transitions that occurred between scenes with no warning.
Overall, this book was an action-filled, heart-pounding thriller that also includes a love story that doesn’t detract from the story, but adds depth. This is the first book that I have read by Andy McNab but it won’t be the last. I highly recommend this novel to those that like thrillers, military thrillers, and other novels by this author. For movie enthusiasts, there is a motion picture based on this book that will be coming out soon.
Wellbeck Publishing and Andy McNab provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
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