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Divide & Conquer
When ex-CIA operative Sean Fox returns from Afghanistan, he's expecting an easy life. As far as everyone who knew him is concerned, he's already dead.
And as far as the Mexican drug cartel and the Russians are concerned, dead is what he should be.
Within hours of what should have been a relaxing homecoming, Sean is fighting the greatest battle of his life and trying desperately to save the wife and child of a man he never knew.
Divide & Conquer is the action packed opener to a scintillating new series...
And as far as the Mexican drug cartel and the Russians are concerned, dead is what he should be.
Within hours of what should have been a relaxing homecoming, Sean is fighting the greatest battle of his life and trying desperately to save the wife and child of a man he never knew.
Divide & Conquer is the action packed opener to a scintillating new series...
400 pages, ebook
First published February 17, 2012
427 people are currently reading
790 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 21, 2012
Divide and Conquer grabbed my attention from the very beginning and continued to deliver non-stop action, intelligent twists and unparalleled conspiracy. Despite some well-placed and clever clues, I was blown away by the shocking “reveal” in the final scene. I was convinced that I had a complete handle on the full scope of the conspiracy driving the story, but it goes deeper. Way deeper.
Sean Fox, a dedicated covert operative, returns to the U.S. from a long stint fighting the Taliban in the mountains of Afghanistan. He’s focused on one thing. A permanent beach vacation. He’s through fighting, having served the CIA faithfully for years. There’s only one problem with his arrival. Sean Fox was killed three months ago by a ruthless Mexican cartel boss just south of the Texas border. Not only does his sudden rebirth confound customs officials and the FBI, his arrival triggers long forgotten alarms deep inside the most secretive intelligence agencies within the U.S. and Russia. What follows is an incredible journey, as Sean struggles to unravel his own mystery, while dodging skilled Spetznaz assassins and brutal Mexican cartel hit men.
Choosing the violent and shady world of Mexican drug cartels serves as a unique and refreshing background for a story based on Cold War conspiracy. All of the players are out of their usual element, with the exception of the drug cartel thugs. The back and forth action between Fox and the cartels is brilliant, culminating in an incredible showdown worthy of a screenplay. The focus gradually shifts from the immediate survival of Sean Fox and his “twin” brother’s family, to a Russian conspiracy that rivals anything I have previously read. As Sean Fox and his American brethren start to put the pieces together, the fear of renewed Cold War quickly surfaces. The truth is much more sinister and devastating.
Divide and Conquer is the second novel I’ve read by Murray McDonald. I look forward to reading his remaining offering, Critical Error, and eagerly await any future releases. It has been a pleasure to discover a refreshing new author in the techno thriller genre, and I would recommend this book to any thriller readers interested in well written, fast paced action.
Sean Fox, a dedicated covert operative, returns to the U.S. from a long stint fighting the Taliban in the mountains of Afghanistan. He’s focused on one thing. A permanent beach vacation. He’s through fighting, having served the CIA faithfully for years. There’s only one problem with his arrival. Sean Fox was killed three months ago by a ruthless Mexican cartel boss just south of the Texas border. Not only does his sudden rebirth confound customs officials and the FBI, his arrival triggers long forgotten alarms deep inside the most secretive intelligence agencies within the U.S. and Russia. What follows is an incredible journey, as Sean struggles to unravel his own mystery, while dodging skilled Spetznaz assassins and brutal Mexican cartel hit men.
Choosing the violent and shady world of Mexican drug cartels serves as a unique and refreshing background for a story based on Cold War conspiracy. All of the players are out of their usual element, with the exception of the drug cartel thugs. The back and forth action between Fox and the cartels is brilliant, culminating in an incredible showdown worthy of a screenplay. The focus gradually shifts from the immediate survival of Sean Fox and his “twin” brother’s family, to a Russian conspiracy that rivals anything I have previously read. As Sean Fox and his American brethren start to put the pieces together, the fear of renewed Cold War quickly surfaces. The truth is much more sinister and devastating.
Divide and Conquer is the second novel I’ve read by Murray McDonald. I look forward to reading his remaining offering, Critical Error, and eagerly await any future releases. It has been a pleasure to discover a refreshing new author in the techno thriller genre, and I would recommend this book to any thriller readers interested in well written, fast paced action.
June 11, 2013
This is my first book by this author, and I have to admit I was caught a little off guard when the title character, Sean Fox, was brutally killed in the first chapter. What the?? The book is called a Sean Fox thriller and they just killed Sean Fox. I admit I even stopped and went back to the cover page to confirm...yep, this is a Sean Fox thriller. Okay. Hmm.
But then 3 months later Sean Fox miraculously reappears at airport customs, to the shock and surprise of all, including the customs agents who detain this supposedly dead ex-CIA agent. This is just the start of the twists and turns in this book.
Many people would consider this a "guy" book, but I will admit I like to read these action thriller type books, and will throw one into my reading mix several times a year. This one did not disappoint, and the "What the heck? No Way!" ending satisfied me and wrapped up this story nicely. But I see there could be more drama in the future for Sean Fox, as his mentor Vincent appears to have "plans" for him.
I will be interested to check out more books my this author.
But then 3 months later Sean Fox miraculously reappears at airport customs, to the shock and surprise of all, including the customs agents who detain this supposedly dead ex-CIA agent. This is just the start of the twists and turns in this book.
Many people would consider this a "guy" book, but I will admit I like to read these action thriller type books, and will throw one into my reading mix several times a year. This one did not disappoint, and the "What the heck? No Way!" ending satisfied me and wrapped up this story nicely. But I see there could be more drama in the future for Sean Fox, as his mentor Vincent appears to have "plans" for him.
I will be interested to check out more books my this author.
May 2, 2013
Another cracking good novel by McDonald. Pure action from cover to cover. Thought provoking theory on what might happen when one identical twin is murdered, and the only evidence for identificatio is DNA.
April 28, 2016
Spy novel
Good but not great story. There were many impossible fights and Sean always survived. Texas governor, who wanted to be president, Mexican cartels, Russian mafia and spy. Doctor from Nazi era experiment results. Lost count how many people are killed.
Good but not great story. There were many impossible fights and Sean always survived. Texas governor, who wanted to be president, Mexican cartels, Russian mafia and spy. Doctor from Nazi era experiment results. Lost count how many people are killed.
July 7, 2017
Action Packed
"Divide and Conquer" is a pretty good yarn and author Murray McDonald must have better than a passing acquaintance with the military and its' weapons. The plot is jam-packed with action and suspense that involves Mexican drug lords and a Russian scheme that is diabolical in its aims and execution. However, I had to suspend belief throughout a fair amount of the book. Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed the character Sean Fox but his "superior" powers defy credibility. Truly, he could almost be Superman come to life. While McDonald's prose is passable, as a writer he should be aware of the dangers in mixing up homophones. Two that are memorable are; bated vs baited and shoe-in vs shoo-in. Those, coupled with more than average typos, make me think the copy editor must have been sleeping on the job. Three and a half stars.
"Divide and Conquer" is a pretty good yarn and author Murray McDonald must have better than a passing acquaintance with the military and its' weapons. The plot is jam-packed with action and suspense that involves Mexican drug lords and a Russian scheme that is diabolical in its aims and execution. However, I had to suspend belief throughout a fair amount of the book. Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed the character Sean Fox but his "superior" powers defy credibility. Truly, he could almost be Superman come to life. While McDonald's prose is passable, as a writer he should be aware of the dangers in mixing up homophones. Two that are memorable are; bated vs baited and shoe-in vs shoo-in. Those, coupled with more than average typos, make me think the copy editor must have been sleeping on the job. Three and a half stars.
April 12, 2025
Woof.
To start, the editor of this book should absolutely be fired. And I’m not even referencing the blatant grammatical errors and point of view miscues throughout the novel- there were serious continuity issues, even within a few paragraphs of each other. It made this unbearable to read so often as I wanted to grab a red pen and mark the whole thing up.
The stereotyping of multiple races and women was too much. While I understand this was written in 2011 and times have changed drastically, it still didn’t sit well with me.
The descriptions of men vs. women were laughable. I don’t understand why the men are all giant (described by giving chest measurements???) and the women were bombshell beauty queens that were either damsels in distress or screwed their way to the top. Can we not, male authors?
This book was bad. I’m sorry.
To start, the editor of this book should absolutely be fired. And I’m not even referencing the blatant grammatical errors and point of view miscues throughout the novel- there were serious continuity issues, even within a few paragraphs of each other. It made this unbearable to read so often as I wanted to grab a red pen and mark the whole thing up.
The stereotyping of multiple races and women was too much. While I understand this was written in 2011 and times have changed drastically, it still didn’t sit well with me.
The descriptions of men vs. women were laughable. I don’t understand why the men are all giant (described by giving chest measurements???) and the women were bombshell beauty queens that were either damsels in distress or screwed their way to the top. Can we not, male authors?
This book was bad. I’m sorry.
January 31, 2017
Lots of telling the story, not much showing....
Murray McDonald, is an adequate storyteller, though lacking in the polish needed for the greatness that five stars require. Heavy use of pop references date the book and prevent hopes of decades long shelf life; a choppy pacing where there is a long build up, only to rush the crescendo; haphazard character and dialogue development; minor copy editing errors. All in all not bad at the right price, a rather entertaining, if forgettable tale. This book fits nicely within the pulp action adventure pocket book genre. No John D. McDonald, or Mickey Spillane here, but done well enough.
Murray McDonald, is an adequate storyteller, though lacking in the polish needed for the greatness that five stars require. Heavy use of pop references date the book and prevent hopes of decades long shelf life; a choppy pacing where there is a long build up, only to rush the crescendo; haphazard character and dialogue development; minor copy editing errors. All in all not bad at the right price, a rather entertaining, if forgettable tale. This book fits nicely within the pulp action adventure pocket book genre. No John D. McDonald, or Mickey Spillane here, but done well enough.
July 7, 2017
What a twist!
This was a very good example of great storytelling in one of my favorite genres! The story ended up having an interesting twist that made it a little different than any others like it. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes action-packed political thrillers!
This was a very good example of great storytelling in one of my favorite genres! The story ended up having an interesting twist that made it a little different than any others like it. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes action-packed political thrillers!
August 14, 2017
Great Read
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book, but, wow, was I surprised. Excellent writing. Lots of action. Plenty of twists and turns, especially the ending which I totally wasn't expecting. Murray McDonald definitely has my attention and I will be reading more of his books.
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book, but, wow, was I surprised. Excellent writing. Lots of action. Plenty of twists and turns, especially the ending which I totally wasn't expecting. Murray McDonald definitely has my attention and I will be reading more of his books.
June 24, 2017
Good one . . exciting and gripping storyline but overall the writing style was well liked by me . . there were many points when it left me thinking 'what the hell ?' but in a good way 😉
so yea I guess 4 🌟 are worth giving ..
so yea I guess 4 🌟 are worth giving ..
November 10, 2021
It was a good book but it seemed to go on forever. The twin thing had me scratching my head but when Mengele came up, I had to keep reading. The ending was one of the strangest I have ever read, but I guess everything was possible.
June 10, 2017
Dogged Determination to do the Right Thing
My favorite archetype - the hero who steadfastly focuses on doing what he believes is moral and true. Protector and warrior.
My favorite archetype - the hero who steadfastly focuses on doing what he believes is moral and true. Protector and warrior.
June 12, 2017
Good
Hard to put down. Lots of action, keeps you on the edge of your seat, a very good read for all
Hard to put down. Lots of action, keeps you on the edge of your seat, a very good read for all
July 3, 2017
Good book
This book was interesting from the beginning. Will get the next book in series. Good book to read. I give it five stars.
This book was interesting from the beginning. Will get the next book in series. Good book to read. I give it five stars.
July 25, 2017
Disappointing
I was saddened by the ending. It was as if the author needed to finish quickly, so he threw an ending together. Disappointing.
I was saddened by the ending. It was as if the author needed to finish quickly, so he threw an ending together. Disappointing.
October 15, 2017
Not Very Realistic
A good story other than many scenes not at all realistic or even remotely believable. Some characters could have had much better development.
A good story other than many scenes not at all realistic or even remotely believable. Some characters could have had much better development.
April 3, 2019
Good book
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourselves and I really enjoyed reading this novel very much so. Shelley Ma
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourselves and I really enjoyed reading this novel very much so. Shelley Ma
July 22, 2020
Great fast paced yarn.
July 22, 2021
Divide &conwuer
Good trad. Believe able to some extent. however some things that one person can do seem little impossible to believe
Good trad. Believe able to some extent. however some things that one person can do seem little impossible to believe
January 3, 2015
Divide and Conquer by Murray McDonald.
4 stars
Actually quite a clever title, the significance of which I only grasped as the book sped towards its conclusion. When I say “sped” I should perhaps have said “raced”! The pace of the book is quite unrelenting.
It starts with a surprise that takes a little bit of assimilating, and continues throughout to provide a number of switches and surprises, although if you accept the basic premise on which the book is based, then some of the developments should not come as too great a surprise.
The storyline is very inventive, populated with some quite well developed characters, particularly the hero of the piece, Sean Fox. There is quite a bit of Jack Reacher and John Puller in there, but there is probably more action and mayhem surrounding Fox than either of the other two. I did warm to him, but I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy being in the same room as him as many of his actions are quite unpredictable.
I enjoyed the book, despite having to suspend my disbelief in the mistaking of one language from another, something which did add to the suspense at the end. The good side wins, the bad side definitely loses, as you would wish to see, but we are left a little bit up in the air because the final scene sets Fox up for further adventures. I haven’t come across any yet though!
4 stars
Actually quite a clever title, the significance of which I only grasped as the book sped towards its conclusion. When I say “sped” I should perhaps have said “raced”! The pace of the book is quite unrelenting.
It starts with a surprise that takes a little bit of assimilating, and continues throughout to provide a number of switches and surprises, although if you accept the basic premise on which the book is based, then some of the developments should not come as too great a surprise.
The storyline is very inventive, populated with some quite well developed characters, particularly the hero of the piece, Sean Fox. There is quite a bit of Jack Reacher and John Puller in there, but there is probably more action and mayhem surrounding Fox than either of the other two. I did warm to him, but I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy being in the same room as him as many of his actions are quite unpredictable.
I enjoyed the book, despite having to suspend my disbelief in the mistaking of one language from another, something which did add to the suspense at the end. The good side wins, the bad side definitely loses, as you would wish to see, but we are left a little bit up in the air because the final scene sets Fox up for further adventures. I haven’t come across any yet though!
March 10, 2013
YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY! Another editing project is now a published book! Divide & Conquer, Murray McDonald's new thriller, is the start to a very epic series.
When ex-CIA operative Sean Fox returns from Afghanistan, he's expecting an easy life. As far as everyone who knew him is concerned, he's already dead.
And as far as the Mexican drug cartel and the Russians are concerned, dead is what he should be.
Within hours of what should have been a relaxing homecoming, Sean is fighting the greatest battle of his life and trying desperately to save the wife and child of a man he never knew.
August 30, 2015
DIVIDE & CONQUER
This was an very intriguing story with some very interesting characters. I would've given it more stars but I couldn't embrace the protagonist in the story. Because of his impressive resume I felt he was making amateurish mistakes and over looking basic stuff. No, I did not expect him to be superman but he acted more like a retired civilian desk jock who just happen to stumble into the story. But it didn't take away from the action in the book. Of course I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
This was an very intriguing story with some very interesting characters. I would've given it more stars but I couldn't embrace the protagonist in the story. Because of his impressive resume I felt he was making amateurish mistakes and over looking basic stuff. No, I did not expect him to be superman but he acted more like a retired civilian desk jock who just happen to stumble into the story. But it didn't take away from the action in the book. Of course I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
January 16, 2015
Divide & Conquer (by Murray McDonald)
McDonald trots out a good history lesson mixed with drug cartels, All the initial guys from the federal government and local governments in Texas and the Mexican border. Ever had someone call you by the wrong name then apologize with "I thought you were someone else." Get ready, you're going to be taking notes just to keep track of who is who. Thanks for another great read.
McDonald trots out a good history lesson mixed with drug cartels, All the initial guys from the federal government and local governments in Texas and the Mexican border. Ever had someone call you by the wrong name then apologize with "I thought you were someone else." Get ready, you're going to be taking notes just to keep track of who is who. Thanks for another great read.
June 1, 2016
What a fantastic beginning for a new series of thrillers starring Sean Fox as a one man crime fighting force because Sean sort of reminds me of Mack Bolan who took on the whole mafia singled handed, This book certainly ends like there will be another book to follow because McDonald leaves us wanting to know how the relationship between Sean, Katie, and James develops, so come on Murray give us book two in the Sean Fox series.
July 30, 2012
Simply amazing. A thriller that keeps you enthralled and on the edge of you seat. The plentiful amount of action in this book makes it nearly impossible to put down. When reading this book, I didnt have much time on hands. When I had time, I would go straight for my Kindle, and read this edition. I read the fabulous book in only two sittings.
March 15, 2013
Excellent mystery,kept me turning page after page,never sure of what would happen next! Love the way the author kept me guessing,always wonderful to read such an enthralling story! I will definitely now read other books by this author,love his style. If you love a great political mystery,involving police,armed forces and innocents,you have to read this book!
April 7, 2015
Odd suspense novel with terrorism, Nazism, Mengala and his followers. A modern day CIA agent comes home from a long job and finds that he is dead. Actually someone who has his DNA is dead. Figuring out what is going on is blended with retrieving a small child from nasty drug dealers.
A lot of background and character development due to the first in a series.
A lot of background and character development due to the first in a series.
June 2, 2016
A very twisted tale of twins begot by a disciple of Dr. Joseph Mengele the Auschwitz assassin. One Sean Fox is a retired CIA agent and the other is a drug dealer in Texas who gets killed by the Mexican cartel. Meanwhile the Russian doctor has a coup planned to take over the world as the Fourth Reich of Nazis using twins of heads of state of the US and Russia.
August 24, 2017
Absolutely Brilliant
If ever a story required a sequel then this is it a truly brilliant story that is almost impossible to. put down, the ending is one only an exceptional story teller could come up with, Murray McDonald has written some great books with great follow-ups and this book could start a series, Sean Fox deserves another outing.
If ever a story required a sequel then this is it a truly brilliant story that is almost impossible to. put down, the ending is one only an exceptional story teller could come up with, Murray McDonald has written some great books with great follow-ups and this book could start a series, Sean Fox deserves another outing.
January 6, 2013
I read this at a time when I was getting a little burned out on action thrillers. However, it kept me wanting to read on. I will probably read the rest of the series after I take a break from this genre.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews