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Recommend this book:
Cult Stalker
Ephraim Clark
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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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.
Recommend this book:
January 6: A Novel
The Anti-Hero Rebellions
Norman Brewer
2024 Finalist
228 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
January 6: A Novel by Norman Brewer is an alternative historical novel in which, on January 6, 2021, a coalition of far-right extremists and militias violently storms the U.S. Capitol to disrupt the certification of a contested presidential election. The aim is to incite chaos so the President will declare martial law. The attackers take several key figures hostage, including the Speaker of the House, using this leverage to escalate their demands and amplify their message. As this flares, a plan to orchestrate nationwide bombings and attacks on critical infrastructure arises to provoke broader unrest. As the situation deteriorates into widespread violence and conflict, the government struggles to respond effectively. The attempts to destabilize the country through violence, hostage-taking, and infrastructure sabotage ultimately lead to a critical showdown between the insurgents and authorities.
This domestic terrorism novel, January 6: A Novel by Norman Brewer, easily delivers one of the year's standout novels, brilliantly creating an alternative history with a chillingly plausible twist. Brewer’s writing is both polished and insightful, with great character development that is all the more impressive given the number of players presented. As a British reader who is ultra critical of political novels that scream about exceptionalism, Brewer was able to get me properly unsettled in a way that I haven't experienced since reading The Plot Against America by Philip Roth, or even the remarkable Sinclair Lewis’s It Can’t Happen Here. Brewer’s adept portrayal of "what could have been" forces readers to confront a nightmarish vision of how close the free world came to its downfall, proving the work to be both an entertaining and thought-provoking read. Very highly recommended.
January 6: A Novel by Norman Brewer is an alternative historical novel in which, on January 6, 2021, a coalition of far-right extremists and militias violently storms the U.S. Capitol to disrupt the certification of a contested presidential election. The aim is to incite chaos so the President will declare martial law. The attackers take several key figures hostage, including the Speaker of the House, using this leverage to escalate their demands and amplify their message. As this flares, a plan to orchestrate nationwide bombings and attacks on critical infrastructure arises to provoke broader unrest. As the situation deteriorates into widespread violence and conflict, the government struggles to respond effectively. The attempts to destabilize the country through violence, hostage-taking, and infrastructure sabotage ultimately lead to a critical showdown between the insurgents and authorities.
This domestic terrorism novel, January 6: A Novel by Norman Brewer, easily delivers one of the year's standout novels, brilliantly creating an alternative history with a chillingly plausible twist. Brewer’s writing is both polished and insightful, with great character development that is all the more impressive given the number of players presented. As a British reader who is ultra critical of political novels that scream about exceptionalism, Brewer was able to get me properly unsettled in a way that I haven't experienced since reading The Plot Against America by Philip Roth, or even the remarkable Sinclair Lewis’s It Can’t Happen Here. Brewer’s adept portrayal of "what could have been" forces readers to confront a nightmarish vision of how close the free world came to its downfall, proving the work to be both an entertaining and thought-provoking read. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Kiev Confession
Kathleen Hart
2024 Honorable Mention
364 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
Dmitry was starting to take too eagerly to the party's doctrine. He wanted to be a scientist like his uncle, and nothing would get in his way. Larysa and Vasyl are worried about their children, not just the increased tantrums by Dimitry but also the recently occurring disaster. What should they do to keep their children safe? Anatoly had been a director of a nuclear facility and a staunch loyalist of the Communist Party, even at the end of his brother's life. Was he a seeker of truth or a keeper of secrets? From Indiana to Washington, Vickie has to survive politics and the intrigues of Washington's journalism world. Her boss, who sees Vickie only as an assistant, doesn't make her life easy. But how does a lowly journalist in America relate to a nuclear disaster that happened miles away? To find out, get a copy of The Kiev Confession by Kathleen Hart.
This is a wonderfully written book and a page-turner. The plot takes you through endless adventures in the Soviet Union and America without you having to leave your couch. Kathleen has managed to use suspense to great effect. The reader can't wait to see what happens in subsequent chapters. I loved how the characters were developed and how realistic the dialogue was. The vivid descriptions of events and the characters' emotions will also capture the reader's attention. Despite this being a work of fiction, The Kiev Confession is thought-provoking, and as I was reading, I couldn't help but think about a government's role in keeping its citizens safe. This book is a must-read.
Dmitry was starting to take too eagerly to the party's doctrine. He wanted to be a scientist like his uncle, and nothing would get in his way. Larysa and Vasyl are worried about their children, not just the increased tantrums by Dimitry but also the recently occurring disaster. What should they do to keep their children safe? Anatoly had been a director of a nuclear facility and a staunch loyalist of the Communist Party, even at the end of his brother's life. Was he a seeker of truth or a keeper of secrets? From Indiana to Washington, Vickie has to survive politics and the intrigues of Washington's journalism world. Her boss, who sees Vickie only as an assistant, doesn't make her life easy. But how does a lowly journalist in America relate to a nuclear disaster that happened miles away? To find out, get a copy of The Kiev Confession by Kathleen Hart.
This is a wonderfully written book and a page-turner. The plot takes you through endless adventures in the Soviet Union and America without you having to leave your couch. Kathleen has managed to use suspense to great effect. The reader can't wait to see what happens in subsequent chapters. I loved how the characters were developed and how realistic the dialogue was. The vivid descriptions of events and the characters' emotions will also capture the reader's attention. Despite this being a work of fiction, The Kiev Confession is thought-provoking, and as I was reading, I couldn't help but think about a government's role in keeping its citizens safe. This book is a must-read.
Recommend this book:
On the Precipice
Brianna MacMahon
2024 Bronze Medal
315 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Paul Zietsman for Readers' Favorite
On the Precipice by Brianna MacMahon is a political sci-fi thriller set in Imperium, a paradisiacal world of great success. At the core of this success is the god they worship, Mystia, and the seven Lord Regents, as they are called, who rule and manage Imperium's different divisions. Amid an important election, Levin Liston, Lord Regent of Diplomacy and leader of the Affiliate Party, seeks to ally with another planet, Civitan. Civitan had recently broken free from the stronghold of The Core, a great enemy of Imperium. However, Civitan had been an ally of the Core some decades ago, and millions of Imperials had died in what was known as the Glass War. Not everyone, including some in Levin's close circle, believes that Civitan can be trusted. The stakes are high, trust is gained or lost, and in many cases, deception proves to be the ultimate weapon.
Although On the Precipice is set in a fantasy world, it had me thoroughly glued to the reality of the dynamics of politics. For this novel to succeed, Brianna MacMahon created exceedingly complex characters who, by virtue or vice, roused me with their words and actions. The continuity of each one's character or nature is steadfast, making for authenticity and a hyper-immersive novel. The dialogue is also intriguing, ranging from meaningful conversations to sarcasm and, at times, hilarious wit. I also enjoyed how there was always an air of suspense leading up to major events and how I never knew what to expect next. This novel towers above many others for its exceedingly skillful craftmanship of characters in a world where the weaker will get by but the strong will thrive.
On the Precipice by Brianna MacMahon is a political sci-fi thriller set in Imperium, a paradisiacal world of great success. At the core of this success is the god they worship, Mystia, and the seven Lord Regents, as they are called, who rule and manage Imperium's different divisions. Amid an important election, Levin Liston, Lord Regent of Diplomacy and leader of the Affiliate Party, seeks to ally with another planet, Civitan. Civitan had recently broken free from the stronghold of The Core, a great enemy of Imperium. However, Civitan had been an ally of the Core some decades ago, and millions of Imperials had died in what was known as the Glass War. Not everyone, including some in Levin's close circle, believes that Civitan can be trusted. The stakes are high, trust is gained or lost, and in many cases, deception proves to be the ultimate weapon.
Although On the Precipice is set in a fantasy world, it had me thoroughly glued to the reality of the dynamics of politics. For this novel to succeed, Brianna MacMahon created exceedingly complex characters who, by virtue or vice, roused me with their words and actions. The continuity of each one's character or nature is steadfast, making for authenticity and a hyper-immersive novel. The dialogue is also intriguing, ranging from meaningful conversations to sarcasm and, at times, hilarious wit. I also enjoyed how there was always an air of suspense leading up to major events and how I never knew what to expect next. This novel towers above many others for its exceedingly skillful craftmanship of characters in a world where the weaker will get by but the strong will thrive.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/jake-fortina-and-the-roman-conspiracy&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41vOeafZ%2B8L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Jake Fortina and the Roman Conspiracy by Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke begins with Blake Conners, a former U.S. Army Special Forces sergeant, leading a team of international operatives to steal three priceless Caravaggio paintings in Rome, and orchestrated by Russian oligarch Anatoly "the Wolf" Volkov. Meanwhile, U.S. Lieutenant Colonel Jake Fortina and ...){kind=link}
Jake Fortina and the Roman Conspiracy
Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke
2024 Silver Medal
293 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Jake Fortina and the Roman Conspiracy by Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke begins with Blake Conners, a former U.S. Army Special Forces sergeant, leading a team of international operatives to steal three priceless Caravaggio paintings in Rome, and orchestrated by Russian oligarch Anatoly "the Wolf" Volkov. Meanwhile, U.S. Lieutenant Colonel Jake Fortina and his wife Sara, a Carabinieri officer, arrive in Rome for Jake’s new diplomatic assignment. Jake becomes suspicious of Conners, whom he recognizes from a past military operation. As the theft unfolds, Jake uncovers a broader criminal network involving the illicit movement of nuclear weapons, with the stolen paintings serving as a diversion. Conners and his team, including the cybercriminal Alexei, aim to launder their gains and destabilize geopolitical relations. Jake and Sara's investigation into the theft unknowingly brings them closer to uncovering a dangerous conspiracy.
Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke hits out hard with his international thriller, Jake Fortina and the Roman Conspiracy. Jake Fortina is a likable protagonist, with all the necessary power traits, but still flawed just enough to feel authentic. Steinke's writing is sharp and his skill lies in the ability to balance tense moments with some intentionally thoughtful social commentary. The standout to me is when Fortina confronts Lt. Colonel Beauregard Bragg's alarming, racially charged rhetoric. It was a pleasantly surprising juxtaposition of America's racial past with the unfolding international conspiracy of the plot. The dialogue is crisp and authentic, even Jake's fake Russian accent, and the pacing is fast and kept me fully invested throughout. Even though this book is the sequel to Major Jake Fortina and the Tier One Threat, it reads perfectly well as a standalone and is a satisfying and timely story. Very highly recommended.
Jake Fortina and the Roman Conspiracy by Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke begins with Blake Conners, a former U.S. Army Special Forces sergeant, leading a team of international operatives to steal three priceless Caravaggio paintings in Rome, and orchestrated by Russian oligarch Anatoly "the Wolf" Volkov. Meanwhile, U.S. Lieutenant Colonel Jake Fortina and his wife Sara, a Carabinieri officer, arrive in Rome for Jake’s new diplomatic assignment. Jake becomes suspicious of Conners, whom he recognizes from a past military operation. As the theft unfolds, Jake uncovers a broader criminal network involving the illicit movement of nuclear weapons, with the stolen paintings serving as a diversion. Conners and his team, including the cybercriminal Alexei, aim to launder their gains and destabilize geopolitical relations. Jake and Sara's investigation into the theft unknowingly brings them closer to uncovering a dangerous conspiracy.
Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke hits out hard with his international thriller, Jake Fortina and the Roman Conspiracy. Jake Fortina is a likable protagonist, with all the necessary power traits, but still flawed just enough to feel authentic. Steinke's writing is sharp and his skill lies in the ability to balance tense moments with some intentionally thoughtful social commentary. The standout to me is when Fortina confronts Lt. Colonel Beauregard Bragg's alarming, racially charged rhetoric. It was a pleasantly surprising juxtaposition of America's racial past with the unfolding international conspiracy of the plot. The dialogue is crisp and authentic, even Jake's fake Russian accent, and the pacing is fast and kept me fully invested throughout. Even though this book is the sequel to Major Jake Fortina and the Tier One Threat, it reads perfectly well as a standalone and is a satisfying and timely story. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
By Means of Peace
Don Johnston
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
By Means of Peace is a work of fiction penned by author Don Johnston in the political thriller, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. In this thrilling novel set in 2148, we follow the story of charming politician Reuben Rogov as he ascends to the presidency, hailed as a sociopolitical messiah after achieving unprecedented peace and solving major crises. However, as Rogov secures his second term, skepticism arises about his methods, with some suspecting he created the very problems he solved. Caught amid this turmoil are Darien and Marisa, a young couple from Houston. While Marisa pursues a career in politics in Washington, Darien, a struggling sci-fi author, remains behind. Their relationship faces challenges amidst the chaos, exacerbated by Darien's grandfather's ominous interpretation of a biblical prophecy.
Author Don Johnston has crafted a suitably complex and enjoyable work that navigates intricate political dynamics and personal struggles, offering a compelling exploration of power, perception, and prophecy. The characters' intertwined journeys unfold against a backdrop of societal upheaval, inviting reflection on the nature of leadership and the consequences of blind trust. Through Darien and Marisa's tumultuous relationship and Darien's grandfather's cryptic warnings, I got a strong sense of characterization and the clever ways in which the author tells the tale naturally through their dialogue and actions without the need for lots of dry prose. Johnston's adept storytelling and strong creative lexis kept me engaged in the sights, settings, and emotions of the piece, leaving me pondering the implications of Rogov's reign and the timeless relevance of prophetic warnings in an ever-changing world. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend By Means of Peace as a thought-provoking experience that will immerse fans of political thrillers in a complex and highly engaging web of intrigue from start to finish.
By Means of Peace is a work of fiction penned by author Don Johnston in the political thriller, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. In this thrilling novel set in 2148, we follow the story of charming politician Reuben Rogov as he ascends to the presidency, hailed as a sociopolitical messiah after achieving unprecedented peace and solving major crises. However, as Rogov secures his second term, skepticism arises about his methods, with some suspecting he created the very problems he solved. Caught amid this turmoil are Darien and Marisa, a young couple from Houston. While Marisa pursues a career in politics in Washington, Darien, a struggling sci-fi author, remains behind. Their relationship faces challenges amidst the chaos, exacerbated by Darien's grandfather's ominous interpretation of a biblical prophecy.
Author Don Johnston has crafted a suitably complex and enjoyable work that navigates intricate political dynamics and personal struggles, offering a compelling exploration of power, perception, and prophecy. The characters' intertwined journeys unfold against a backdrop of societal upheaval, inviting reflection on the nature of leadership and the consequences of blind trust. Through Darien and Marisa's tumultuous relationship and Darien's grandfather's cryptic warnings, I got a strong sense of characterization and the clever ways in which the author tells the tale naturally through their dialogue and actions without the need for lots of dry prose. Johnston's adept storytelling and strong creative lexis kept me engaged in the sights, settings, and emotions of the piece, leaving me pondering the implications of Rogov's reign and the timeless relevance of prophetic warnings in an ever-changing world. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend By Means of Peace as a thought-provoking experience that will immerse fans of political thrillers in a complex and highly engaging web of intrigue from start to finish.
Recommend this book:
Bucharest Legacy
The Rise of the Oligarchs
William Maz
2023 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Political
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
Bucharest Legacy: The Rise of the Oligarchs is a political thriller by William Maz. CIA agent Bill Hefflin’s mission was to escort a KGB officer out of Romania. The mission went awry when Bill was suspected of being a KGB mole. The mole’s handler was a KGB agent known as Boris, the code name for Bill’s longtime KGB asset. This makes Bill the prime suspect for being the mole. Bill and his wife, a French intelligence agent, join forces to identify the real culprit. Bill was allowed the opportunity to prove his innocence by traveling back to Bucharest in Romania, where he was born. Bill had to find Boris and identify the mole, but Bill had a secret. Boris had been dead for more than a year, and Bill was the only one who knew.
Bucharest Legacy was a roller coaster ride involving the Cold War, spies, action, and betrayal. William Maz created a world of pursuit, deception, suspense, and intrigue. It was fast-paced, and the tension kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a spine-chiller of a read, and I could not put it down. I was intrigued from the outset and I just kept turning the pages, not knowing what to expect next. The twists and turns were captivating and engrossing. The characters were well-developed and authentic. Bill was resourceful and could easily adapt to any situation to carry out his duties. The story is excellently written, with a brief history of the story’s time frame and the prevailing political situation.
Bucharest Legacy: The Rise of the Oligarchs is a political thriller by William Maz. CIA agent Bill Hefflin’s mission was to escort a KGB officer out of Romania. The mission went awry when Bill was suspected of being a KGB mole. The mole’s handler was a KGB agent known as Boris, the code name for Bill’s longtime KGB asset. This makes Bill the prime suspect for being the mole. Bill and his wife, a French intelligence agent, join forces to identify the real culprit. Bill was allowed the opportunity to prove his innocence by traveling back to Bucharest in Romania, where he was born. Bill had to find Boris and identify the mole, but Bill had a secret. Boris had been dead for more than a year, and Bill was the only one who knew.
Bucharest Legacy was a roller coaster ride involving the Cold War, spies, action, and betrayal. William Maz created a world of pursuit, deception, suspense, and intrigue. It was fast-paced, and the tension kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a spine-chiller of a read, and I could not put it down. I was intrigued from the outset and I just kept turning the pages, not knowing what to expect next. The twists and turns were captivating and engrossing. The characters were well-developed and authentic. Bill was resourceful and could easily adapt to any situation to carry out his duties. The story is excellently written, with a brief history of the story’s time frame and the prevailing political situation.
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