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Recommend this book:
Attacking the Dragon
A. Marc Ross
2026 Finalist
320 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
Attacking the Dragon by A. Marc. Ross is set in China, the USA, and Equatorial Guinea. Some unknown organization is attacking the Belt and Road initiative led by the Chinese to uplift and possibly draw Third World countries into debt. This unidentified group has succeeded in blowing up a factory, injuring a Senior Party Member and a US businessman who works extensively with Chinese companies. A second disaster occurs when a half-built dam in Equatorial Guinea collapses and destroys a village downriver, killing dozens of people. More sabotage is planned, and in the meantime, everyone blames everyone else, and tensions rise. Wesley Robertson and a US Ambassador work together to discover the perpetrators, and that is not an easy task. While Wesley himself is suspected by the Chinese, only his contacts in government circles lead to his release. Attacking the Dragon is a fast-moving, engrossing political thriller that has the reader on the edge of their seat from the first page to the last.
For lovers of political intrigue, this is a book they are sure to enjoy. Attacking the Dragon by A. Marc. Ross takes the reader into the heart of China. There are great descriptions of areas outside the main cities, and the journey to Chengdu was particularly exciting. This book is so well written that you could imagine you were in the backstreets of China. On several occasions, the principal characters’ lives are at risk, and dangers are lurking in the shadows. There are murders aplenty, and suspicion at the highest level. We are taken behind the scenes in the senior echelons of the Chinese Party officials, where a simple mistake or lack of judgment can cost you your life. Attacking the Dragon also takes the reader to Equatorial Guinea and cities in the United States. The narrative moves at a breakneck speed with numerous twists and turns and cliffhanger moments. It is a book I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend
Attacking the Dragon by A. Marc. Ross is set in China, the USA, and Equatorial Guinea. Some unknown organization is attacking the Belt and Road initiative led by the Chinese to uplift and possibly draw Third World countries into debt. This unidentified group has succeeded in blowing up a factory, injuring a Senior Party Member and a US businessman who works extensively with Chinese companies. A second disaster occurs when a half-built dam in Equatorial Guinea collapses and destroys a village downriver, killing dozens of people. More sabotage is planned, and in the meantime, everyone blames everyone else, and tensions rise. Wesley Robertson and a US Ambassador work together to discover the perpetrators, and that is not an easy task. While Wesley himself is suspected by the Chinese, only his contacts in government circles lead to his release. Attacking the Dragon is a fast-moving, engrossing political thriller that has the reader on the edge of their seat from the first page to the last.
For lovers of political intrigue, this is a book they are sure to enjoy. Attacking the Dragon by A. Marc. Ross takes the reader into the heart of China. There are great descriptions of areas outside the main cities, and the journey to Chengdu was particularly exciting. This book is so well written that you could imagine you were in the backstreets of China. On several occasions, the principal characters’ lives are at risk, and dangers are lurking in the shadows. There are murders aplenty, and suspicion at the highest level. We are taken behind the scenes in the senior echelons of the Chinese Party officials, where a simple mistake or lack of judgment can cost you your life. Attacking the Dragon also takes the reader to Equatorial Guinea and cities in the United States. The narrative moves at a breakneck speed with numerous twists and turns and cliffhanger moments. It is a book I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend
Recommend this book:
Autocrat
Jeff Nesbit
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Jeff Nesbit’s Autocrat is satirical, grotesque, and timely; it follows a narcissistic reality TV host named Rex Vanner who launches and wins the 2015 presidential campaign. But his leverage is a network contract, and what he succeeds in summoning is the darkest impulse in the American electorate. He is backed by three dangerous people: a theocratic zealot called Jared Caine, who calls Rex “King Cyrus,” referring to a pagan Persian ruler used by God to destroy the enemies and rebuild the Jewish temple; a data analyst known as Elias Thorne, who uses resentment as a weapon; and a tech oligarch called Julian Silk, who buys the government and drives unpopular agendas that involve exile, impeachment, and a catastrophic second term. What follows is a disaster for the US; by 2031, NATO is dissolved, the Supreme Court is packed with unskilled, incompetent golf buddies, and the currency is replaced with the “Vanner Coin” ($REX). The most appalling part is the “Decision,” where citizens watch Rex sentence his political enemies to lunar exile while everyone cheers his perfect golf game as per the algorithms.
Saying I was amused, excited, and perfectly entertained would be an understatement. Jeff Nesbit delivers a political commentary that everyone needs to read, especially those who are concerned about the political situation in the United States. This book cleverly illustrates how democratic institutions collapse just because politics becomes a spectacle. This book is second only to George Orwell’s 1984, and while Orwell’s satirical work prefigured contemporary political relations in the US, Autocrat delivers a compelling, clinical commentary of today’s US political reality. Any conscious person cannot read this book without seeing the parallels to Donald Trump’s first and second terms. This is a cautionary, satirical story delivered in a lighthearted, humorous tone, but one that offers the most damning critique of the political conundrum in the United States. I will read it over and over.
Jeff Nesbit’s Autocrat is satirical, grotesque, and timely; it follows a narcissistic reality TV host named Rex Vanner who launches and wins the 2015 presidential campaign. But his leverage is a network contract, and what he succeeds in summoning is the darkest impulse in the American electorate. He is backed by three dangerous people: a theocratic zealot called Jared Caine, who calls Rex “King Cyrus,” referring to a pagan Persian ruler used by God to destroy the enemies and rebuild the Jewish temple; a data analyst known as Elias Thorne, who uses resentment as a weapon; and a tech oligarch called Julian Silk, who buys the government and drives unpopular agendas that involve exile, impeachment, and a catastrophic second term. What follows is a disaster for the US; by 2031, NATO is dissolved, the Supreme Court is packed with unskilled, incompetent golf buddies, and the currency is replaced with the “Vanner Coin” ($REX). The most appalling part is the “Decision,” where citizens watch Rex sentence his political enemies to lunar exile while everyone cheers his perfect golf game as per the algorithms.
Saying I was amused, excited, and perfectly entertained would be an understatement. Jeff Nesbit delivers a political commentary that everyone needs to read, especially those who are concerned about the political situation in the United States. This book cleverly illustrates how democratic institutions collapse just because politics becomes a spectacle. This book is second only to George Orwell’s 1984, and while Orwell’s satirical work prefigured contemporary political relations in the US, Autocrat delivers a compelling, clinical commentary of today’s US political reality. Any conscious person cannot read this book without seeing the parallels to Donald Trump’s first and second terms. This is a cautionary, satirical story delivered in a lighthearted, humorous tone, but one that offers the most damning critique of the political conundrum in the United States. I will read it over and over.
Recommend this book:
The Judas Saints
A Novel of Political Intrigue
Keith M. Spence
2026 Bronze Medal
322 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Donna Stevenson for Readers' Favorite
Davy Clough, investigative reporter for The Capital Review, has just been found dead in a motel room bathtub. A suicide note is discovered, so the local sheriff and the medical examiner conclude he committed suicide. At least, that’s the published story. Michael Saville, an FBI field agent, isn’t convinced. Clough claimed to Saville that he had uncovered a conspiracy at the highest level of the US government and that his life was in danger, so Saville wants to investigate Clough’s death. In The Judas Saints by Keith M. Spence, two more public servants are also declared dead by self-inflicted wounds. Saville discovers a connection between these three deaths, and it appears to be a software product named SAINTS. US Park Police Sergeant Lowri Pritchard doesn’t buy the suicide angle either when her team discovers the body of a White House Deputy Counsel. Saville and Pritchard unofficially combine forces to uncover the truth, even though it leads them to the highest levels of the US government.
The Judas Saints: A Novel of Political Intrigue by Keith M. Spence is a spellbinding thriller that moves at breakneck speed. While suicide is a dominant theme, the well-crafted plot includes government corruption, military clandestine operations, conspiracies, betrayal, and political intrigue. The author excels at creatively interweaving several plotlines and characters. Villains and heroes alike are presented with enough depth to be not only interesting but believable. The two reluctant heroes, Saville and Pritchard, captured my interest right away, and the scenes involving their fight with the main villain are intense. This book would make a great television series.
Davy Clough, investigative reporter for The Capital Review, has just been found dead in a motel room bathtub. A suicide note is discovered, so the local sheriff and the medical examiner conclude he committed suicide. At least, that’s the published story. Michael Saville, an FBI field agent, isn’t convinced. Clough claimed to Saville that he had uncovered a conspiracy at the highest level of the US government and that his life was in danger, so Saville wants to investigate Clough’s death. In The Judas Saints by Keith M. Spence, two more public servants are also declared dead by self-inflicted wounds. Saville discovers a connection between these three deaths, and it appears to be a software product named SAINTS. US Park Police Sergeant Lowri Pritchard doesn’t buy the suicide angle either when her team discovers the body of a White House Deputy Counsel. Saville and Pritchard unofficially combine forces to uncover the truth, even though it leads them to the highest levels of the US government.
The Judas Saints: A Novel of Political Intrigue by Keith M. Spence is a spellbinding thriller that moves at breakneck speed. While suicide is a dominant theme, the well-crafted plot includes government corruption, military clandestine operations, conspiracies, betrayal, and political intrigue. The author excels at creatively interweaving several plotlines and characters. Villains and heroes alike are presented with enough depth to be not only interesting but believable. The two reluctant heroes, Saville and Pritchard, captured my interest right away, and the scenes involving their fight with the main villain are intense. This book would make a great television series.
Recommend this book:
Savage Remorse
A Chase Harper Thriller
Macklin Grey
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
Savage Remorse by Macklin Grey follows a former U.S. Army officer, Chase Harper, whose life is upended after he sustains a serious injury in Afghanistan. While recovering in Germany, he kills two robbers in self-defense, which turns him into a fugitive. He joins the Détachment, a private military group hired to fight rebels in Congo. But things quickly collapse when corrupt leaders and Russian mercenaries begin framing the group for unspeakable crimes. The group is betrayed by the very government they serve. Chase collaborates with Emily, a determined journalist, to uncover the truth. They must survive grave dangers and personal attacks to do so. With few loyal allies remaining, this battle becomes a fight for redemption, not only survival. Can Chase rise above his past and execute justice in a world torn apart by war and corruption?
Macklin Grey's Savage Remorse is a gripping and unpredictable thriller that is hard to put down. The plot isn't recounted only through Chase's experiences—readers also see the story unfold through the actions and encounters of a resilient journalist, corrupt politicians, arms dealers, and soldiers. These shifting perspectives make the story feel complex but real, showing how war affects everyone differently. Grey's writing style naturally blends action, suspense, and emotion. One moment, you are in the middle of a fast-paced action scene, and the next, the story slows down to explore moments of character remorse and personal choices. These different narrative styles make it easy for readers to become immersed in the storyline and follow the protagonist's harrowing journey. Overall, I admire how the author does not shy away from revealing the harsh truths about modern-day warfare, but instead creates an opportunity for characters to grapple with moments of betrayal, hope, loyalty, and survival. Excellent book. I highly recommend reading it.
Savage Remorse by Macklin Grey follows a former U.S. Army officer, Chase Harper, whose life is upended after he sustains a serious injury in Afghanistan. While recovering in Germany, he kills two robbers in self-defense, which turns him into a fugitive. He joins the Détachment, a private military group hired to fight rebels in Congo. But things quickly collapse when corrupt leaders and Russian mercenaries begin framing the group for unspeakable crimes. The group is betrayed by the very government they serve. Chase collaborates with Emily, a determined journalist, to uncover the truth. They must survive grave dangers and personal attacks to do so. With few loyal allies remaining, this battle becomes a fight for redemption, not only survival. Can Chase rise above his past and execute justice in a world torn apart by war and corruption?
Macklin Grey's Savage Remorse is a gripping and unpredictable thriller that is hard to put down. The plot isn't recounted only through Chase's experiences—readers also see the story unfold through the actions and encounters of a resilient journalist, corrupt politicians, arms dealers, and soldiers. These shifting perspectives make the story feel complex but real, showing how war affects everyone differently. Grey's writing style naturally blends action, suspense, and emotion. One moment, you are in the middle of a fast-paced action scene, and the next, the story slows down to explore moments of character remorse and personal choices. These different narrative styles make it easy for readers to become immersed in the storyline and follow the protagonist's harrowing journey. Overall, I admire how the author does not shy away from revealing the harsh truths about modern-day warfare, but instead creates an opportunity for characters to grapple with moments of betrayal, hope, loyalty, and survival. Excellent book. I highly recommend reading it.
Recommend this book:
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Blue Shield
FX Holden
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
The Russia-Ukraine war continues, but Russia’s progress is stalled, and victory looks distant. Keen on Russia’s future in the war, Colonel General Gennady Chuikov, officially declared deceased, summons Major Tomas Arshavin of Russian Military Intelligence (GRU) to propose a strategy dubbed the Barca Maneuver. Through the strategy, they plan to attack and destroy NATO allies supporting Ukraine, seeing this as their surest route to victory. Setting their plan in motion, Russia signs the Budapest Accord—a ceasefire with Ukraine—which leads to the formation of the Coalition of the Willing (Operation Blue Shield), a US-backed military alliance guaranteeing security against Russia. Two years later, Russia deceptively launches Operation Barca, catching the Coalition off guard with a massive incursion into Ukraine. Will the plan succeed? Find out in Blue Shield by FX Holden.
If you are looking for a fast-paced military thriller flavored with high-octane action, high-stakes drama, espionage, political intrigue, and suspense, Blue Shield by FX Holden is a must-read. Basing the story’s premise on the Russia-Ukraine War, Holden describes how events might unfold if NATO allies directly participated in the conflict and Russia declared a full-scale war on them. Holden’s expansive and impressive world-building brought the war to life on the pages, capturing the air, navy, and land combat. Beyond providing insight into the background of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the story also highlights the military and political dynamics involved, as well as the machinery used. It also highlights how a full-scale war with Russia and NATO allies may impact the conflict. While the loss will be immense, there will be enough clarity from the confrontation when the dust settles.
The Russia-Ukraine war continues, but Russia’s progress is stalled, and victory looks distant. Keen on Russia’s future in the war, Colonel General Gennady Chuikov, officially declared deceased, summons Major Tomas Arshavin of Russian Military Intelligence (GRU) to propose a strategy dubbed the Barca Maneuver. Through the strategy, they plan to attack and destroy NATO allies supporting Ukraine, seeing this as their surest route to victory. Setting their plan in motion, Russia signs the Budapest Accord—a ceasefire with Ukraine—which leads to the formation of the Coalition of the Willing (Operation Blue Shield), a US-backed military alliance guaranteeing security against Russia. Two years later, Russia deceptively launches Operation Barca, catching the Coalition off guard with a massive incursion into Ukraine. Will the plan succeed? Find out in Blue Shield by FX Holden.
If you are looking for a fast-paced military thriller flavored with high-octane action, high-stakes drama, espionage, political intrigue, and suspense, Blue Shield by FX Holden is a must-read. Basing the story’s premise on the Russia-Ukraine War, Holden describes how events might unfold if NATO allies directly participated in the conflict and Russia declared a full-scale war on them. Holden’s expansive and impressive world-building brought the war to life on the pages, capturing the air, navy, and land combat. Beyond providing insight into the background of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the story also highlights the military and political dynamics involved, as well as the machinery used. It also highlights how a full-scale war with Russia and NATO allies may impact the conflict. While the loss will be immense, there will be enough clarity from the confrontation when the dust settles.
Recommend this book:
The Florentine Entanglement
A Novel of the Cold War
Pamela Norsworthy
2026 Gold Medal
339 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
This story begins before the outbreak of World War II and ends over two decades later. Nineteen-year-old Eleanor is groomed by her art professor in Florence while studying, thus the title The Florentine Entanglement by Pamela Norsworthy. She hides out for the duration of the war, then meets and marries Talbot Bentley, who takes her back with him to America. He works for the newly formed CIA, but what should have been a happy marriage has a darker side. As Eleanor becomes more and more distant, Talbot finds solace in affairs with yet another secretary, while his wife turns a blind eye. Their social life and a settled though distant marriage in Washington is interrupted when the U2 spy plane flown by Gary Powers is shot down over Russia. Criticism and allegations fly in all directions, and Talbot finds himself in the firing line. In the meantime, Eleanor has secrets of her own that she is desperate to hide from both her husband, friends, church, and the CIA.
What an exciting read. I could not tear myself away from The Florentine Entanglement by Pamela Norsworthy. I am old enough to remember the Gary Powers incident and the shock and the media attention at the time. I am so impressed that this author has woven a tale around the incident, which, while fictional, has all the hallmarks of a very possible, real-life scenario. I connected with the characters; I really cared about them, which is always the sign of an excellent book. The pace, the tantalizing questions, and the drama all combine to make this story a five-star read, written not simply as a love story, but as a down-to-earth tale of two people caught up in a situation over which they had minimal control. I also liked the comparison of living under a totalitarian dictatorship as opposed to a libertarian one. I shall certainly look out for more books by this author.
This story begins before the outbreak of World War II and ends over two decades later. Nineteen-year-old Eleanor is groomed by her art professor in Florence while studying, thus the title The Florentine Entanglement by Pamela Norsworthy. She hides out for the duration of the war, then meets and marries Talbot Bentley, who takes her back with him to America. He works for the newly formed CIA, but what should have been a happy marriage has a darker side. As Eleanor becomes more and more distant, Talbot finds solace in affairs with yet another secretary, while his wife turns a blind eye. Their social life and a settled though distant marriage in Washington is interrupted when the U2 spy plane flown by Gary Powers is shot down over Russia. Criticism and allegations fly in all directions, and Talbot finds himself in the firing line. In the meantime, Eleanor has secrets of her own that she is desperate to hide from both her husband, friends, church, and the CIA.
What an exciting read. I could not tear myself away from The Florentine Entanglement by Pamela Norsworthy. I am old enough to remember the Gary Powers incident and the shock and the media attention at the time. I am so impressed that this author has woven a tale around the incident, which, while fictional, has all the hallmarks of a very possible, real-life scenario. I connected with the characters; I really cared about them, which is always the sign of an excellent book. The pace, the tantalizing questions, and the drama all combine to make this story a five-star read, written not simply as a love story, but as a down-to-earth tale of two people caught up in a situation over which they had minimal control. I also liked the comparison of living under a totalitarian dictatorship as opposed to a libertarian one. I shall certainly look out for more books by this author.
Recommend this book:
Cult Stalker
Ephraim Clark
2025 Finalist
353 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Cult Stalker by Ephraim Clark is a gripping tale that features the themes of survival, identity, and the conflict between good and evil within the landscapes of cults, law enforcement, and personal redemption. In 1974, in Paris, a deadly cult resurfaces, threatening to unleash chaos in the City of Light. Undercover CIA operative Jeanie Jones knows the truth, but when she’s framed for a triple murder, she must race against time to clear her name. Enter Brad James, a pop singer turned secret weapon, who teams up with ally Chuck Hall to untangle a sinister web of corruption and trafficking. As they hunt for the cult leader, a mysterious assassin closes in. Can they solve the mysteries before Paris is engulfed in violence? Ephraim Clark is a master plotter who excels at creating exceptional, flawed, and believable characters.
Jeanie Jones is portrayed as a strong, resourceful woman who undergoes many transformations throughout the narrative. Initially presented as a victim of circumstance, her character evolves into a cunning, survival-oriented individual. Jeanie's ability to navigate the treacherous waters of deception and danger, particularly in her encounters with cult members and law enforcement, will keep readers following her. Brad James is the archetype of the reluctant hero. With a past characterized by the performing arts and espionage, his journey reveals a man caught between his desires and the moral challenges of his assignment. The antagonistic characters are well-developed, especially the Prophet and Benjamin, who are manipulative. The setting comes to life, with detailed descriptions of locales and the smells and feel of Paris in the 1970s. The contrast between the idyllic landscapes and the dark realities of cult life amplifies the tension. Locations such as the Children of God's compound, the vibrant Parisian streets, and the claustrophobic confines of prison starkly define the stakes involved in the characters' journeys. I loved the atmospheric writing in Cult Stalker, the robust characters, and the twisty plot.
Cult Stalker by Ephraim Clark is a gripping tale that features the themes of survival, identity, and the conflict between good and evil within the landscapes of cults, law enforcement, and personal redemption. In 1974, in Paris, a deadly cult resurfaces, threatening to unleash chaos in the City of Light. Undercover CIA operative Jeanie Jones knows the truth, but when she’s framed for a triple murder, she must race against time to clear her name. Enter Brad James, a pop singer turned secret weapon, who teams up with ally Chuck Hall to untangle a sinister web of corruption and trafficking. As they hunt for the cult leader, a mysterious assassin closes in. Can they solve the mysteries before Paris is engulfed in violence? Ephraim Clark is a master plotter who excels at creating exceptional, flawed, and believable characters.
Jeanie Jones is portrayed as a strong, resourceful woman who undergoes many transformations throughout the narrative. Initially presented as a victim of circumstance, her character evolves into a cunning, survival-oriented individual. Jeanie's ability to navigate the treacherous waters of deception and danger, particularly in her encounters with cult members and law enforcement, will keep readers following her. Brad James is the archetype of the reluctant hero. With a past characterized by the performing arts and espionage, his journey reveals a man caught between his desires and the moral challenges of his assignment. The antagonistic characters are well-developed, especially the Prophet and Benjamin, who are manipulative. The setting comes to life, with detailed descriptions of locales and the smells and feel of Paris in the 1970s. The contrast between the idyllic landscapes and the dark realities of cult life amplifies the tension. Locations such as the Children of God's compound, the vibrant Parisian streets, and the claustrophobic confines of prison starkly define the stakes involved in the characters' journeys. I loved the atmospheric writing in Cult Stalker, the robust characters, and the twisty plot.
Recommend this book:
77 Days
James Theimer
2025 Bronze Medal
598 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
James Theimer's 77 Days is a political thriller with intricate plotting and dynamic characters. Set in a world on the brink of chaos, the novel explores the dramatic events unfolding over 77 days following a contentious U.S. presidential election. The story is about the Hamilton family, whose members are deeply embedded in the political and military machinations of Washington, D.C. The story begins with election night drama that escalates into a national crisis. Theimer explores ethical dilemmas, questions leadership, responsibility, and political agendas, and addresses timely themes such as political divisions, public health crises, and media influence. These elements ground the story in present-day realities, making it a reflection of current events.
James Theimer's fictionalization of recent events focuses on the political landscape, military operations, and social issues, including a mysterious virus and its global implications. The parallels are striking to modern times, giving the story rich symbolism. The novel’s portrayal of a tumultuous post-election period, where a divided nation wrestles with uncertainty and unrest, reflects anxieties about political polarization and the fragility of democracy. The world-building is well done and keeps readers engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Theimer’s attention to the military’s technical and procedural details enhances the authenticity of these scenes. A glossary of characters at the beginning makes following the story easier, and the author includes excerpts from the Constitution to emphasize the themes of governance, democracy, and the rule of law. Fans of contemporary fiction that melds medical and family drama, political suspense, and military fiction will find 77 Days an engaging read.
James Theimer's 77 Days is a political thriller with intricate plotting and dynamic characters. Set in a world on the brink of chaos, the novel explores the dramatic events unfolding over 77 days following a contentious U.S. presidential election. The story is about the Hamilton family, whose members are deeply embedded in the political and military machinations of Washington, D.C. The story begins with election night drama that escalates into a national crisis. Theimer explores ethical dilemmas, questions leadership, responsibility, and political agendas, and addresses timely themes such as political divisions, public health crises, and media influence. These elements ground the story in present-day realities, making it a reflection of current events.
James Theimer's fictionalization of recent events focuses on the political landscape, military operations, and social issues, including a mysterious virus and its global implications. The parallels are striking to modern times, giving the story rich symbolism. The novel’s portrayal of a tumultuous post-election period, where a divided nation wrestles with uncertainty and unrest, reflects anxieties about political polarization and the fragility of democracy. The world-building is well done and keeps readers engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Theimer’s attention to the military’s technical and procedural details enhances the authenticity of these scenes. A glossary of characters at the beginning makes following the story easier, and the author includes excerpts from the Constitution to emphasize the themes of governance, democracy, and the rule of law. Fans of contemporary fiction that melds medical and family drama, political suspense, and military fiction will find 77 Days an engaging read.
Recommend this book:
Sua Sponte
The Minneapolis ADOZ
Mikael Carlson
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Sua Sponte: The Minneapolis ADOZ by Mikael Carlson is a Watchtower prequel. Emmit “Chicago” Haskins, a former Army Ranger lost after leaving military service, finds himself pulled into the heart of an escalating crisis in Minneapolis. What begins as a casual reunion with old comrades turns into something much more dangerous, as a police mishap sparks the formation of an “autonomous zone” in the city’s Arts District. Led by the ideologically driven Landon Tayson, this occupied zone begins to look more like a regime than a protest. As the situation spirals, the arrival of Kai Z, a daring podcaster documenting the truth behind the movement, threatens to expose deeper motives while Chicago’s silent resistance puts him directly in the crosshairs of the ADOZ leadership. What will happen next? Will Kai Z succeed? Have the Rangers bitten off more than they can chew?
Mikael Carlson crafts a timely and politically charged narrative that explores themes of police reform, civil unrest, and the potential for societal breakdown. The premise of an autonomous zone within a major American city is disturbingly believable, lending a sense of urgency to the story. The characters of Chicago and Kai Z offer contrasting perspectives on the unfolding events. The author raises relevant questions about the limits of protest, the role of law enforcement, and the potential consequences of unchecked power. Carlson skillfully balances action with ideology, refusing to oversimplify the gray areas of justice and protest. The story is grounded in reality yet infused with high-stakes drama that keeps the reader turning pages. The multiple points of view, the narrative style, and the fast-paced action keep the story interesting until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Sua Sponte: The Minneapolis ADOZ by Mikael Carlson is a Watchtower prequel. Emmit “Chicago” Haskins, a former Army Ranger lost after leaving military service, finds himself pulled into the heart of an escalating crisis in Minneapolis. What begins as a casual reunion with old comrades turns into something much more dangerous, as a police mishap sparks the formation of an “autonomous zone” in the city’s Arts District. Led by the ideologically driven Landon Tayson, this occupied zone begins to look more like a regime than a protest. As the situation spirals, the arrival of Kai Z, a daring podcaster documenting the truth behind the movement, threatens to expose deeper motives while Chicago’s silent resistance puts him directly in the crosshairs of the ADOZ leadership. What will happen next? Will Kai Z succeed? Have the Rangers bitten off more than they can chew?
Mikael Carlson crafts a timely and politically charged narrative that explores themes of police reform, civil unrest, and the potential for societal breakdown. The premise of an autonomous zone within a major American city is disturbingly believable, lending a sense of urgency to the story. The characters of Chicago and Kai Z offer contrasting perspectives on the unfolding events. The author raises relevant questions about the limits of protest, the role of law enforcement, and the potential consequences of unchecked power. Carlson skillfully balances action with ideology, refusing to oversimplify the gray areas of justice and protest. The story is grounded in reality yet infused with high-stakes drama that keeps the reader turning pages. The multiple points of view, the narrative style, and the fast-paced action keep the story interesting until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Recommend this book:
Antarctica Storm
An Aggressor Inc. Thriller
FX Holden
2025 Gold Medal
432 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
Everything had been running smoothly for Project Minerva, a classified US government Militech operation based at Concordia station, Antarctica, until a technical hitch rocks the project. It all starts with the failure of a critical containment system, which threatens to annihilate Antarctica. As the US Department of Energy and Aggressor Inc., a private military contractor, rush to contain the disaster, they realize it could have been sabotage. But by who and why? Perhaps this is the least of their worries. Skeptical of the US government’s claim that it was conducting scientific research in Antarctica, Russian spies have been secretly following activities around the continent. They have discovered Concordia Station and are willing to do anything, even if it means risking a war, to destroy whatever the US is hiding at the station. Discover how it all goes down in FX Holden’s Antarctica Storm.
FX Holden’s Antarctica Storm is a must-read for aficionados of gripping, fast-paced, action-packed espionage and conspiracy thrillers. Featuring a fascinating, dynamic cast, Holden weaved an ingenious plot, unfolding the storyline through a multi-perspective timeline. The subtle tone of the storyline and the plot twists had me on the edge of my seat. The evocative and cinematic depictions brought the scenes to life on the pages. It felt like I was watching a Hollywood espionage and action thriller. I got swept up in a whirlwind of high-stakes drama, covert ops, international espionage, rogue pilots, ruthless operatives, double agents, thrills, and more. I enjoyed the lively conversations filled with sarcasm, wit, and banter. These gave depth to the cast’s conflicts, emotions, and complex traits. I loved this book.
Everything had been running smoothly for Project Minerva, a classified US government Militech operation based at Concordia station, Antarctica, until a technical hitch rocks the project. It all starts with the failure of a critical containment system, which threatens to annihilate Antarctica. As the US Department of Energy and Aggressor Inc., a private military contractor, rush to contain the disaster, they realize it could have been sabotage. But by who and why? Perhaps this is the least of their worries. Skeptical of the US government’s claim that it was conducting scientific research in Antarctica, Russian spies have been secretly following activities around the continent. They have discovered Concordia Station and are willing to do anything, even if it means risking a war, to destroy whatever the US is hiding at the station. Discover how it all goes down in FX Holden’s Antarctica Storm.
FX Holden’s Antarctica Storm is a must-read for aficionados of gripping, fast-paced, action-packed espionage and conspiracy thrillers. Featuring a fascinating, dynamic cast, Holden weaved an ingenious plot, unfolding the storyline through a multi-perspective timeline. The subtle tone of the storyline and the plot twists had me on the edge of my seat. The evocative and cinematic depictions brought the scenes to life on the pages. It felt like I was watching a Hollywood espionage and action thriller. I got swept up in a whirlwind of high-stakes drama, covert ops, international espionage, rogue pilots, ruthless operatives, double agents, thrills, and more. I enjoyed the lively conversations filled with sarcasm, wit, and banter. These gave depth to the cast’s conflicts, emotions, and complex traits. I loved this book.
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