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The Twelfth Imam #3
Damascus Countdown
Book 3 in the bestselling 3-book espionage and spy thriller series that has sold 700,000 copies!“Damascus Countdown is fantastic! Rosenberg always keeps me riveted.”—Rush Limbaugh, radio hostThis time, all eyes are not just on Iran, but on Syria as well.Israel has successfully launched a first strike on Iran, taking out all of their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads—and causing The Twelfth Imam to order a full-scale retaliation. U.S. President William Jackson threatens to support a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning the Jewish State for unprovoked and unwarranted acts of aggression. Meanwhile, CIA operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian regime and intercepted information indicating that two Iranian nuclear warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure and undisclosed location.In danger not only from the ongoing missile strikes on Iran but also from the increasingly hostile and suspicious governments of multiple countries, David and his team are in a race against time to find the remaining nuclear warheads before disaster strikes.
481 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2013
618 people are currently reading
2182 people want to read
About the author
Joel C. Rosenberg
56 books3,000 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Note: This is a different person than the fantasy author, Joel Rosenberg
Joel C. Rosenberg is the founder of The Joshua Fund and the New York Times best-selling author of THE LAST JIHAD (2002), THE LAST DAYS (2003), THE EZEKIEL OPTION (2005), THE COPPER SCROLL (2006), EPICENTER (2006) and DEAD HEAT (2008) with more than 1.5 million copies in print. THE EZEKIEL OPTION was named by the ECPA as the Gold Medallion winner of the "Best Novel of 2006." Joel, an evangelical Christian whose mother is Gentile and whose father is from an Orthodox Jewish background, previously worked with several U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Steve Forbes, former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows.
He and his wife have four sons and live near Washington, DC.
Note: This is a different person than the fantasy author, Joel Rosenberg
Joel C. Rosenberg is the founder of The Joshua Fund and the New York Times best-selling author of THE LAST JIHAD (2002), THE LAST DAYS (2003), THE EZEKIEL OPTION (2005), THE COPPER SCROLL (2006), EPICENTER (2006) and DEAD HEAT (2008) with more than 1.5 million copies in print. THE EZEKIEL OPTION was named by the ECPA as the Gold Medallion winner of the "Best Novel of 2006." Joel, an evangelical Christian whose mother is Gentile and whose father is from an Orthodox Jewish background, previously worked with several U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Steve Forbes, former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows.
He and his wife have four sons and live near Washington, DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 473 reviews
March 7, 2013
If you only read one book this year - or perhaps one series - it should be this one.
Described as a 'geopolitical thriller,' I never would have picked up a Rosenberg book on my own. I'm about as political as a daisy, and trying to figure out the truth from all of the he saids/she saids that are popular in politics these days are way beyond me.
But then a friend lent me Rosenberg's first series, and I couldn't put it down.
This one is just as, or perhaps more, relevent to world events than the first that I read.
We often hear people speculating about what might happen when Jesus returns, but Rosenberg takes a different tack in this series: What might happen if the Muslims believe that their end-time prophecies are being fulfilled?
Many Muslims believe that this fulfillment is imminent, and they are actively working to push towards that day - to be prepared for what they consider to be a holy war against Israel and the US when the Twelfth Imam returns.
This is the story of Damascus Countdown. A fast-paced, around-the-world story of a lone CIA agent hidden inside Iran trying to locate and neutralize nuclear warheads at all costs - before they could be used to neutralize Israel or the US.
I've had Damascus Countdown on my bookshelf for a few weeks now, and I can't get the plot out of my head - in large part, because it could be playing out in the Middle East right now. With Iran working frantically to go nuclear, with Israel trying to keep the US as a strong ally, with many wanting the US to do more to stop Iran's nuclear efforts, this book is straight out of today's headlines.
David Shirazi, the main character, is kind, determined, and brilliant. He doesn't want to be violent but is totally committed to stopping the kind of nuclear war that he is positive is coming - and this smart intensity makes him a fascinating character. It doesn't hurt that he has a kind, praying love interest back in the States, either. The love angle softens the sharp edges of the story and adds a softness that would be missing otherwise.
Despite Shirazi's perfection as a lead character, the reader can never be totally sure that he will survive through the plot. He is, of course, an American spy in Iran, with bombs and gunfights exploding on nearly every page - and Rosenberg keeps you in suspense in every single chapter. Generally one is sure that the main character will survive the story victorious, but Rosenberg writes his plots as he sees them, not as we do, and he does not provide this certainty. This makes Damascus Countdown a suspenseful thriller on every single level.
You shouldn't miss this book - it's a must-read - but you should also be prepared with some chocolate and a day off, because neither will you be able to put it down. It has some heft to it, so clear your schedule and get reading. This one is demanding your attention now.
I received a free copy of Damascus Countdown from Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review.
http://anestintherocks.blogspot.com/2...
Described as a 'geopolitical thriller,' I never would have picked up a Rosenberg book on my own. I'm about as political as a daisy, and trying to figure out the truth from all of the he saids/she saids that are popular in politics these days are way beyond me.
But then a friend lent me Rosenberg's first series, and I couldn't put it down.
This one is just as, or perhaps more, relevent to world events than the first that I read.
We often hear people speculating about what might happen when Jesus returns, but Rosenberg takes a different tack in this series: What might happen if the Muslims believe that their end-time prophecies are being fulfilled?
Many Muslims believe that this fulfillment is imminent, and they are actively working to push towards that day - to be prepared for what they consider to be a holy war against Israel and the US when the Twelfth Imam returns.
This is the story of Damascus Countdown. A fast-paced, around-the-world story of a lone CIA agent hidden inside Iran trying to locate and neutralize nuclear warheads at all costs - before they could be used to neutralize Israel or the US.
I've had Damascus Countdown on my bookshelf for a few weeks now, and I can't get the plot out of my head - in large part, because it could be playing out in the Middle East right now. With Iran working frantically to go nuclear, with Israel trying to keep the US as a strong ally, with many wanting the US to do more to stop Iran's nuclear efforts, this book is straight out of today's headlines.
David Shirazi, the main character, is kind, determined, and brilliant. He doesn't want to be violent but is totally committed to stopping the kind of nuclear war that he is positive is coming - and this smart intensity makes him a fascinating character. It doesn't hurt that he has a kind, praying love interest back in the States, either. The love angle softens the sharp edges of the story and adds a softness that would be missing otherwise.
Despite Shirazi's perfection as a lead character, the reader can never be totally sure that he will survive through the plot. He is, of course, an American spy in Iran, with bombs and gunfights exploding on nearly every page - and Rosenberg keeps you in suspense in every single chapter. Generally one is sure that the main character will survive the story victorious, but Rosenberg writes his plots as he sees them, not as we do, and he does not provide this certainty. This makes Damascus Countdown a suspenseful thriller on every single level.
You shouldn't miss this book - it's a must-read - but you should also be prepared with some chocolate and a day off, because neither will you be able to put it down. It has some heft to it, so clear your schedule and get reading. This one is demanding your attention now.
I received a free copy of Damascus Countdown from Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review.
http://anestintherocks.blogspot.com/2...
May 8, 2021
A Quickie Review
By now, most readers should know what to expect from Mr. Rosenberg: action and espionage seemingly ripped from tomorrow's headlines that is based on Biblical prophecy. For fans of his works--such as myself--this is great news. The writing, action, and everything else are just as great as we've come to expect from this "modern Nostradamus". Where will the series go from here? The ending--which I won't give away!--adds a whole new wrinkle to the story.
Content Concerns: Plenty of violence, some of it bloody. Definitely not for young children, as it would scare and confuse them.
Score: 4.5/5
EDIT: Since this book was published years ago, I doubt we'll get a sequel...but, I still enjoyed this the third time around!
By now, most readers should know what to expect from Mr. Rosenberg: action and espionage seemingly ripped from tomorrow's headlines that is based on Biblical prophecy. For fans of his works--such as myself--this is great news. The writing, action, and everything else are just as great as we've come to expect from this "modern Nostradamus". Where will the series go from here? The ending--which I won't give away!--adds a whole new wrinkle to the story.
Content Concerns: Plenty of violence, some of it bloody. Definitely not for young children, as it would scare and confuse them.
Score: 4.5/5
EDIT: Since this book was published years ago, I doubt we'll get a sequel...but, I still enjoyed this the third time around!
April 13, 2013
I am commenting in two ways. First, on the novel itself. Second, on the novel as a social comment.
First, the plot is OK for the genre. It is topical and in line with what readers in this area want, i.e., techno-military with a touch of politics and intrigue. Tom Clancy lovers, you know who you are. Unfortunately, the characters are wooden and don't fit together in the plot line. Even after you've finished the book, you're wondering, "Now what the hell did that subplot have to do with anything?" "Who was that character and why was he/she in this novel?" It's not well written, but to be fair, it's no worse than a lot of summer beach reads. Except:
The plot and the entire book is a thinly-veiled Christianity monologue. Page after nauseating page, we get long discourses from different characters about finding Jesus. Jesus is not hiding the two missing nuclear warheads, but you'd think so after reading this book, because Jesus is what they're looking for and by the way a couple of nukes.
I am embarrassed to say I picked it up off the end cap at Sam's on a dark day when I was hungry for escape fiction. Nice cover. Very bad book. The author apparently has had some success. This will be my only read, I think he's a fraud. This is so dumbed down and twisted it's virtually unreadable.
First, the plot is OK for the genre. It is topical and in line with what readers in this area want, i.e., techno-military with a touch of politics and intrigue. Tom Clancy lovers, you know who you are. Unfortunately, the characters are wooden and don't fit together in the plot line. Even after you've finished the book, you're wondering, "Now what the hell did that subplot have to do with anything?" "Who was that character and why was he/she in this novel?" It's not well written, but to be fair, it's no worse than a lot of summer beach reads. Except:
The plot and the entire book is a thinly-veiled Christianity monologue. Page after nauseating page, we get long discourses from different characters about finding Jesus. Jesus is not hiding the two missing nuclear warheads, but you'd think so after reading this book, because Jesus is what they're looking for and by the way a couple of nukes.
I am embarrassed to say I picked it up off the end cap at Sam's on a dark day when I was hungry for escape fiction. Nice cover. Very bad book. The author apparently has had some success. This will be my only read, I think he's a fraud. This is so dumbed down and twisted it's virtually unreadable.
October 7, 2020
I've read several of this series and they were real good and very interesting with a bookclub that I was in. Was so glad that I read 'The Damascus Countdown' last, as it filled-in all the missing pieces of the battle between a false messiah, and his caliphate cronies against Israel. It was refreshing to read Middle Eastern events come alive, as if they were straight out of the New York Times, with a comparative narrative straight out of Biblical prophecy. I'm hoping there is a sequel, but will be content with this tear-jerking finale. It was refreshing to see characters from all walks of life see, meet and either accept or reject Jesus Christ in the context of their own lives. In a nutshell, you have Iranians, Muslims, atheists, agnostics, extremists, mid-Western Americans, spies, government heads and their intelligent agencies thrown into this mix. Thoroughly appreciated the 'David Shirazi' character - seeking truth, justice and 'doing the right thing', even in the face of his government's unwillingness to support Israel or his role in stopping another holocaust.
All eyes are on the Middle East. Israel has successfully launched a first strike on Iran, taking out all of their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads - and causing The Twelfth Imam to order a full-scale retaliation. US President William Jackson threatens to support a UN Security Council resolution condemning the Jewish State for unprovoked and unwarranted acts of aggression.Meanwhile, CIA operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian regime and intercepted information indicating that two Iranian nuclear warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure and undisclosed location. In danger not only from the ongoing missile strikes on Iran but also from the increasingly hostile and suspicious governments of multiple countries, David and his team are in a race against time to find the remaining nuclear warheads before disaster strikes.
Read preview >
This finishes the trilogy of "The Twelth Imam". What a way to finish. Set primarily in the Middle East, and at times in the U.S. this final installment sees CIA operative David, continuing to stay within the Mahdi's inner circle, but as the book progresses, he is more outside this circle, and his special ops colleagues are tasked to find the 2 missing nukes and disarm them. Needless to say very detailed scenes, with a lot of political and war-time decisions, of what to do, what not to do.
There is a lot of geography of the Middle East, mentioned in this book, especially, Iran, and Syria. So, it makes you want to follow along on a map where everyone is.
There are at least 10-15 central characters in this series, and like other authors, I appreciated Rosenberg listing them before the first chapter, as I had to reference them from time to time.
It's amazing and great, that someone can weave a story like this, without using any curse word, or having any sex scenes. There is some violence, but not over the top.
All eyes are on the Middle East. Israel has successfully launched a first strike on Iran, taking out all of their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads - and causing The Twelfth Imam to order a full-scale retaliation. US President William Jackson threatens to support a UN Security Council resolution condemning the Jewish State for unprovoked and unwarranted acts of aggression.Meanwhile, CIA operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian regime and intercepted information indicating that two Iranian nuclear warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure and undisclosed location. In danger not only from the ongoing missile strikes on Iran but also from the increasingly hostile and suspicious governments of multiple countries, David and his team are in a race against time to find the remaining nuclear warheads before disaster strikes.
Read preview >
This finishes the trilogy of "The Twelth Imam". What a way to finish. Set primarily in the Middle East, and at times in the U.S. this final installment sees CIA operative David, continuing to stay within the Mahdi's inner circle, but as the book progresses, he is more outside this circle, and his special ops colleagues are tasked to find the 2 missing nukes and disarm them. Needless to say very detailed scenes, with a lot of political and war-time decisions, of what to do, what not to do.
There is a lot of geography of the Middle East, mentioned in this book, especially, Iran, and Syria. So, it makes you want to follow along on a map where everyone is.
There are at least 10-15 central characters in this series, and like other authors, I appreciated Rosenberg listing them before the first chapter, as I had to reference them from time to time.
It's amazing and great, that someone can weave a story like this, without using any curse word, or having any sex scenes. There is some violence, but not over the top.
December 24, 2013
This book was a political and religious nightmare. The author clearly favored Christianity and Judaism over Islam. I think it provides a really skewed negative view of Islam, which is really unfortunate and disrespectful. I am a Christian, but from the way the author worded everything about God and Jesus, I want to become an atheist. Every time a character went on a "Jesus is my savior" rant, I wanted to close the book and run away.
Good things: The book picks up speed towards the end and becomes a whirlwind of action. My favorite part is the end with all the racing and fighting. The ending is kind of anti-climatic with the whole idea that bad guys will be punished by God thing happening.
I didn't read the other two books in the series, but I still understood everything going on in this one. I have no intention on backtracking because the story is complete in itself and I don't think I missed anything.
Good things: The book picks up speed towards the end and becomes a whirlwind of action. My favorite part is the end with all the racing and fighting. The ending is kind of anti-climatic with the whole idea that bad guys will be punished by God thing happening.
I didn't read the other two books in the series, but I still understood everything going on in this one. I have no intention on backtracking because the story is complete in itself and I don't think I missed anything.
May 16, 2013
Joel C. Rosenberg’s latest religious political thriller grabs the reader by the neck and will not let go. Picking up precisely where The Tehran Initiative finishes, Rosenberg continues the great political race against the self-described Twelfth Imam and his attempts to destroy Israel once and for all. Pitting ongoing warring factions in the Middle East against one another, an interesting American decision to speak out against Israel, and tensions between Islam and Christianity fuels the fires and leaves the region wondering if victory over ‘the Little Satan’ might finally be achieved. Nonetheless, CIA operative David Shirazi remains in the region, hoping to topple this despot who gathers more followers for his ‘cultish group’ as each day passes. This leaves the reader wondering if there is any hope of keeping Israel on the map, let alone the beginning of the end of the non-Islamic world.
As long as the reader can divorce themselves from Rosenberg’s evangelical narrative, the story flows well and should not offend too many. Dissecting the religiosity from the story could still make for a great novel, but I have come to see that its fabric woven into the larger story does add flavour to the larger story. Just as his previous series has strong ties to Old Testament stories, Rosenberg uses the same prophesies to reflect on current-day happenings. One does not feel too inculcated by Jesusness, though there are times any reader considered a non-believer has to swallow some bitter pills and forge ahead, living their sinful ways.
Kudos Mr. Rosenberg. Stellar work that keeps dazzling the reader with intricate detail and excellent political and social commentary on what might realistically happen, in the coming years. A spectacular end to your great trilogy!
As long as the reader can divorce themselves from Rosenberg’s evangelical narrative, the story flows well and should not offend too many. Dissecting the religiosity from the story could still make for a great novel, but I have come to see that its fabric woven into the larger story does add flavour to the larger story. Just as his previous series has strong ties to Old Testament stories, Rosenberg uses the same prophesies to reflect on current-day happenings. One does not feel too inculcated by Jesusness, though there are times any reader considered a non-believer has to swallow some bitter pills and forge ahead, living their sinful ways.
Kudos Mr. Rosenberg. Stellar work that keeps dazzling the reader with intricate detail and excellent political and social commentary on what might realistically happen, in the coming years. A spectacular end to your great trilogy!
March 5, 2013
***Don't miss this chilling portrayal of Middle East events that mirror reality...***
Joel Rosenberg announces the release of Damascus Countdown today that completes the Twelfth
Imam trilogy, a book endorsed by “…former presidential candidate, Rich Santorum and radio host, Rush Limbaugh…” www.flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/ Rosenberg’s realistic portrayal of the unrest and division in the Middle East, Jerusalem and the anticipated appearance of the prophetic Twelfth Imam is chilling, dramatic and real.
The Tehran Initiative, second in the series, ended with covert agent David Shirazi, aka Mr. Tabrizi’s meeting with the Twelfth Imam’s aide to deliver the highly prized SAT phones, that unbeknownst to them were converted by the CIA. Damascus Countdown begins with that meeting.
David knew the satellite phones would prove irresistible to the Iranians with the growing unrest and threat of communication breakdown with war imminent. It also meant “…Iran’s supreme Ayatollah…president…and the passionately devout “Twelver’s” of the so-called Islamic Messiah…” only communication would be through satellite transmission. The CIA monitored phones would prove critical to Israel and the United States.
During the meeting, sudden sounds of sniper rifle fire felled two bodyguards and left the aide crumpled and bleeding on the ground with David crouched beside him. David felt a small sense of satisfaction knowing the first part of his daring plan had succeeded. Then felt his muscles tense in anticipation of phase two—a programmed car bomb blast that would ensure their escape.
Instead…Full Review: http://tinyurl.com/bc43bl9
Joel Rosenberg announces the release of Damascus Countdown today that completes the Twelfth
Imam trilogy, a book endorsed by “…former presidential candidate, Rich Santorum and radio host, Rush Limbaugh…” www.flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/ Rosenberg’s realistic portrayal of the unrest and division in the Middle East, Jerusalem and the anticipated appearance of the prophetic Twelfth Imam is chilling, dramatic and real.
The Tehran Initiative, second in the series, ended with covert agent David Shirazi, aka Mr. Tabrizi’s meeting with the Twelfth Imam’s aide to deliver the highly prized SAT phones, that unbeknownst to them were converted by the CIA. Damascus Countdown begins with that meeting.
David knew the satellite phones would prove irresistible to the Iranians with the growing unrest and threat of communication breakdown with war imminent. It also meant “…Iran’s supreme Ayatollah…president…and the passionately devout “Twelver’s” of the so-called Islamic Messiah…” only communication would be through satellite transmission. The CIA monitored phones would prove critical to Israel and the United States.
During the meeting, sudden sounds of sniper rifle fire felled two bodyguards and left the aide crumpled and bleeding on the ground with David crouched beside him. David felt a small sense of satisfaction knowing the first part of his daring plan had succeeded. Then felt his muscles tense in anticipation of phase two—a programmed car bomb blast that would ensure their escape.
Instead…Full Review: http://tinyurl.com/bc43bl9
March 27, 2013
This was a book that I had been eagerly waiting to come out. Rosenberg's books are always real page turners, so I held off reading it until I could read it through to the end if I needed to. The book is 480 pages, so I didn't plan on reading it in one sitting, but that is exactly what I did.
The whole series is really, really good, but this last book beat them all. The way it ended, I assume this is the final book in the series, and it was a great conclusion to a great series. Rosenberg knows his stuff, and though his books are fictional, his fiction all too often comes close to being true. I learned a lot about Middle East relations and Israel's place in it all. The book had a fictional president of the USA that sounded a lot like the one we have now, a president that is not pro-Israel and not likely to help Israel defend herself against attacks.
The book gives a sobering look at what could happen in the Middle East if Iran would decide to use their nuclear warfare against Israel. I don't want to give away anything for those who have not read the book and may read it, but I feel the author paints a very realistic picture of what that would be like.
I very much liked the main character in these books, David Shirazi, and was glad to see him back in this book, front and center. I couldn't have enjoyed this book any more than I did. It was an interesting, gripping, and exciting read, and yet a sobering read. I would recommend it to anyone, though you do need to read the three books in order.
The whole series is really, really good, but this last book beat them all. The way it ended, I assume this is the final book in the series, and it was a great conclusion to a great series. Rosenberg knows his stuff, and though his books are fictional, his fiction all too often comes close to being true. I learned a lot about Middle East relations and Israel's place in it all. The book had a fictional president of the USA that sounded a lot like the one we have now, a president that is not pro-Israel and not likely to help Israel defend herself against attacks.
The book gives a sobering look at what could happen in the Middle East if Iran would decide to use their nuclear warfare against Israel. I don't want to give away anything for those who have not read the book and may read it, but I feel the author paints a very realistic picture of what that would be like.
I very much liked the main character in these books, David Shirazi, and was glad to see him back in this book, front and center. I couldn't have enjoyed this book any more than I did. It was an interesting, gripping, and exciting read, and yet a sobering read. I would recommend it to anyone, though you do need to read the three books in order.
September 30, 2013
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of review. The review is my honest opinion and I was not paid for this service.
Damascus Countdown continues where The Tehran Initiative left off. Mr. Rosenberg's writing style allows you to pick up and read and still know what is going on without having read any of the previous books. Joel Rosenberg does not shy away from end time prophecy, nor does he back off from prominently displaying the faith of his Christian characters. Damascus Countdown is a captivating thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is a book that will keep will pull you in from page one and keep you until you turn the very last page. This was a book that I had to read in one sitting as I could not put it down. I love how he takes Biblical prophecy and real events and interweaves it with fiction to create a very believable story. I have enjoyed this series tremendously and am sad that this is the last of the series.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants not only a good read, but enjoys a fast-paced Christian thriller with tons of action.
Damascus Countdown continues where The Tehran Initiative left off. Mr. Rosenberg's writing style allows you to pick up and read and still know what is going on without having read any of the previous books. Joel Rosenberg does not shy away from end time prophecy, nor does he back off from prominently displaying the faith of his Christian characters. Damascus Countdown is a captivating thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is a book that will keep will pull you in from page one and keep you until you turn the very last page. This was a book that I had to read in one sitting as I could not put it down. I love how he takes Biblical prophecy and real events and interweaves it with fiction to create a very believable story. I have enjoyed this series tremendously and am sad that this is the last of the series.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants not only a good read, but enjoys a fast-paced Christian thriller with tons of action.
June 16, 2013
I only read 10% of this book. It started out well, and then something seemed weird about it. I decided to read some reviews of the book and discovered that this book is a simply a thinly-veiled born again Christianity monologue. I wanted and action thriller, I didn't want to be preached to or at. I’m sorry I gave the author my money! There REALLY should be something in the book's synopsis letting you know what this book is…and is not.
June 28, 2016
It's best to read the First Book: The Twelfth Imam 1st even though this book could be read as stand-alone espionage patriotic thriller. It's a page turner, gripping story with Christian elements in it. Great story, and completely enhanced with Christopher Lane's voice performance (Audiobook) - Definitely listen to Audiobook.
October 20, 2013
This book is unabashedly Christian. The gospel is presented in glaring clarity. There is lots of action and the novel is well written. I may not agree with Rosenberg's eschatology but he has written a good novel of one possible scene of the future. This is the third in a series and, while it can be read alone, it would be better to read the other two first. See my complete review at http://bit.ly/18zMCHV.
March 22, 2022
A rather satisfying albeit abrupt ending to this fast-paced series!
Though the second book was probably my favourite, this one certainly got my heart racing. There was quite a bit more prophecy/End Times theology in this book than the first two, which (though I can’t say agree with everything) was interesting. Time and time again with all these in-the-moment-life-or-death decisions, all I could think was that I’m glad I’m not a spy, in the military, or in politics. ;)
I have mixed feelings about Marseille and David’s romance. While I understand their families have been friends forever, they hadn’t seen each other in 15 years and within a couple weeks of reuniting, they’re engaged. I suppose I just felt it was too rushed…and I’m not a fan of love triangles, so poor Eva; I did like her as a character.
Was it worth the read? Yes. It doesn’t quite live up to my favourite Rosenberg books - the Marcus Ryker series or The Auschwitz Escape - but I still enjoyed this rollercoaster of a ride!
Though the second book was probably my favourite, this one certainly got my heart racing. There was quite a bit more prophecy/End Times theology in this book than the first two, which (though I can’t say agree with everything) was interesting. Time and time again with all these in-the-moment-life-or-death decisions, all I could think was that I’m glad I’m not a spy, in the military, or in politics. ;)
I have mixed feelings about Marseille and David’s romance. While I understand their families have been friends forever, they hadn’t seen each other in 15 years and within a couple weeks of reuniting, they’re engaged. I suppose I just felt it was too rushed…and I’m not a fan of love triangles, so poor Eva; I did like her as a character.
Was it worth the read? Yes. It doesn’t quite live up to my favourite Rosenberg books - the Marcus Ryker series or The Auschwitz Escape - but I still enjoyed this rollercoaster of a ride!
May 30, 2013
All eyes are on the Middle East. Israel has successfully launched a first strike on Iran, taking out all of their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads--and causing The Twelfth Imam to order a full-scale retaliation. US President William Jackson threatens to support a UN Security Council resolution condemning the Jewish State for unprovoked and unwarranted acts of aggression.
Meanwhile, CIA operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian regime and intercepted information indicating that two Iranian nuclear warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure and undisclosed location. In danger not only from the ongoing missile strikes on Iran but also from the increasingly hostile and suspicious governments of multiple countries, David and his team are in a race against time to find the remaining nuclear warheads before disaster strikes.
The Damascus Countdown by Joel C. Rosenberg is the third novel in the Twelfth Imam series following the Twelfth Imam and the Tehran Initiative novels, and this book is a smashing ending to this series. The Damascus Countdown is filled with international tension, mind blowing suspense, staggering sadness, and is action packed to the end. This novel could have been pulled from today's headlines as confrontations arise between Iran and Israel and as Syria becomes more embroiled in civil war and nuclear intrigue, just as is seen in the Damascus Countdown. The plot line moves quickly in most parts as the action and intrigue increases and then slower in others as Scriptures and Biblical prophecies are explained in light of current events. I found the alternation between action and explanation to be interesting and to increase the suspense exponentially.
The characters of the Damascus Countdown were realistic and were developed well. More is learned about David Shirazi and his journey into a better understanding of faith in this novel, and he even has opportunities to share his beliefs with others in critical situations. The other supporting characters also became more developed and played a bigger role in the story's progress. David's friend from his childhood had more of a role in this novel, and it was interesting to see her side of the story as well while the plot progressed.
Overall, I really enjoyed the Damascus Countdown because of its intensity and realistic nature. While it is not necessary to read the other two novels first, the Damascus Countdown is certainly a thrilling ending and climax to the entire Twelfth Imam series.
I received this novel from Tyndale House Press in exchange for an honest review.
Meanwhile, CIA operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian regime and intercepted information indicating that two Iranian nuclear warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure and undisclosed location. In danger not only from the ongoing missile strikes on Iran but also from the increasingly hostile and suspicious governments of multiple countries, David and his team are in a race against time to find the remaining nuclear warheads before disaster strikes.
The Damascus Countdown by Joel C. Rosenberg is the third novel in the Twelfth Imam series following the Twelfth Imam and the Tehran Initiative novels, and this book is a smashing ending to this series. The Damascus Countdown is filled with international tension, mind blowing suspense, staggering sadness, and is action packed to the end. This novel could have been pulled from today's headlines as confrontations arise between Iran and Israel and as Syria becomes more embroiled in civil war and nuclear intrigue, just as is seen in the Damascus Countdown. The plot line moves quickly in most parts as the action and intrigue increases and then slower in others as Scriptures and Biblical prophecies are explained in light of current events. I found the alternation between action and explanation to be interesting and to increase the suspense exponentially.
The characters of the Damascus Countdown were realistic and were developed well. More is learned about David Shirazi and his journey into a better understanding of faith in this novel, and he even has opportunities to share his beliefs with others in critical situations. The other supporting characters also became more developed and played a bigger role in the story's progress. David's friend from his childhood had more of a role in this novel, and it was interesting to see her side of the story as well while the plot progressed.
Overall, I really enjoyed the Damascus Countdown because of its intensity and realistic nature. While it is not necessary to read the other two novels first, the Damascus Countdown is certainly a thrilling ending and climax to the entire Twelfth Imam series.
I received this novel from Tyndale House Press in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2013
Oh. My. Word.
I am saddened at how long it took me to read one of Joel's books! This was a fantastic read! As a big thriller/suspense fan, Damascus Countdown is perfect for me. My mom has always told me how good his books were, but I always shrugged it off because of other priorities. I should have listened sooner, for sure!
While this is the last in this series and I have not read the first two, I did not feel like I was missing anything or confused at all. This book is so well written that I'm taking notes for myself as a writer! An admirable trait in any book, Rosenburg thickens the plot and raises the stakes to unimaginable heights. Right when you think things can't get worse, they do. It's classic and awesome.
The main hero in this trilogy to my knowledge is David Shirazi, alias Reza Tabrizi. He's a CIA deep undercover agent in Iran trying to prevent a war... until, that is, the Israelis start one barely a chapter into the novel. Then his new mission is to find the two nukes that the Israelis didn't get in their attack and deactivate them. I found him to be very likable and very real to me.
Rosenburg takes a serious look at prophesies in the Old Testament and applies them to his fictional today. I cannot fathom the research that has gone into this but it is all worth it. I won't drag out this review too much farther, but I will say that I wouldn't recommend this to younger teens or anyone who doesn't love a good thriller. But if you do, I'd recommend you check out this series. I know I'll be reading The Twelfth Imam and The Tehran Initiative in the next few weeks. :-)
I received this book from Tyndale in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!
I am saddened at how long it took me to read one of Joel's books! This was a fantastic read! As a big thriller/suspense fan, Damascus Countdown is perfect for me. My mom has always told me how good his books were, but I always shrugged it off because of other priorities. I should have listened sooner, for sure!
While this is the last in this series and I have not read the first two, I did not feel like I was missing anything or confused at all. This book is so well written that I'm taking notes for myself as a writer! An admirable trait in any book, Rosenburg thickens the plot and raises the stakes to unimaginable heights. Right when you think things can't get worse, they do. It's classic and awesome.
The main hero in this trilogy to my knowledge is David Shirazi, alias Reza Tabrizi. He's a CIA deep undercover agent in Iran trying to prevent a war... until, that is, the Israelis start one barely a chapter into the novel. Then his new mission is to find the two nukes that the Israelis didn't get in their attack and deactivate them. I found him to be very likable and very real to me.
Rosenburg takes a serious look at prophesies in the Old Testament and applies them to his fictional today. I cannot fathom the research that has gone into this but it is all worth it. I won't drag out this review too much farther, but I will say that I wouldn't recommend this to younger teens or anyone who doesn't love a good thriller. But if you do, I'd recommend you check out this series. I know I'll be reading The Twelfth Imam and The Tehran Initiative in the next few weeks. :-)
I received this book from Tyndale in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!
April 3, 2013
Thrilling fiction that teeters on reality. Rosenberg only gets better.
After having read Rosenberg's second book The Tehran Initiative I was totally hooked on this author and his prophetic writing style. So when I was given the chance to review his third book in the series, Damascus Count Down, I was really looking forward to another breathtaking ride. Little did I know it would be an even better read, as the Damascus Count Down is a suspense filled and gripping page turner that kept me at the edge of my seat. At times I felt so caught in the moment I found myself tensing, yet not wanting to stop reading this thrilling novel, while other times completely forgetting I was reading fiction.
Rosenberg is quite skilled at weaving the bible and prophecy into his stories and you get the sense he has worked very hard to make his last book in this series his best. This book is a perfect read for anyone, so whether they diligently follow bible prophecy or are just familiar with certain aspects of the bible, they will have no problem reading and understanding the Damascus Count Down. Rosenberg's has a very reader friendly writing style that conveys his story so clearly, even a middle schooler can easily comprehend what is going on. I would actually recommend this story to anyone who likes to make connections with our current times and end of times prophecy or those who are unbiased and are looking for a thrilling ride.
After having read Rosenberg's second book The Tehran Initiative I was totally hooked on this author and his prophetic writing style. So when I was given the chance to review his third book in the series, Damascus Count Down, I was really looking forward to another breathtaking ride. Little did I know it would be an even better read, as the Damascus Count Down is a suspense filled and gripping page turner that kept me at the edge of my seat. At times I felt so caught in the moment I found myself tensing, yet not wanting to stop reading this thrilling novel, while other times completely forgetting I was reading fiction.
Rosenberg is quite skilled at weaving the bible and prophecy into his stories and you get the sense he has worked very hard to make his last book in this series his best. This book is a perfect read for anyone, so whether they diligently follow bible prophecy or are just familiar with certain aspects of the bible, they will have no problem reading and understanding the Damascus Count Down. Rosenberg's has a very reader friendly writing style that conveys his story so clearly, even a middle schooler can easily comprehend what is going on. I would actually recommend this story to anyone who likes to make connections with our current times and end of times prophecy or those who are unbiased and are looking for a thrilling ride.
February 22, 2013
My thoughts: Damascus is known as probably the oldest continuously settled or occupied city in existence. But is the clock ticking down? Are we now counting down the moments or days before the demise of Damascus or the world's demise? In Damascus Countdown, Joel C. Rosenberg take us deep into Syria and Iran and among the heads of state both politically, militarily, and spiritually. The Twelth Imam is foretold to be the "Messiah" of the Islamic faith and the one who will lead them into world dominion.
Just like the morning news reports of today, this story unfolds with tension over nuclear arms in Syria and Iran and those armaments being pointed at Israel. Joel Rosenberg is a recognized authority on the Middle East and also on Biblical understanding of that area.
In Damascus Countdown Mr. Rosenberg takes us through passages in Isaiah that point to the fate of Syria and Iran. We see the story unfolding with a CIA deep cover operative and team leader, David Shirazi, alias Reza Tabrizi, who is also Iranian by birth. The book begins with a bang and each page you turn brings scenes of intrigue, of explosive events, of political adversaries on both sides of the ocean, and of spiritual emboldenment by converts from Islam to Christianity.
If you're expecting a sweet little romance, this is not the book for you. If you're expecting a feel-good story - even with a bit of adventure, this is not the book for you. This book is long at 480 pages. It is dramatic. It is intense. It gives long interpretive discourses of Scripture. But it is not boring. It is not dry. It is not a "tear-jerker." This book will capture your attention and hold it until you turn page 479.
In Rosenberg's fiction you will discover finely tuned and developed characters. You will visualize the scenes he so aptly describes and almost feel the intensity the characters feel. And you will discover individuals who have willingly and joyfully counted the cost, and counted it very small indeed, to convert to Christianity.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale Blog Network on behalf of the publisher and author in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. i received no compensation for this review.
Just like the morning news reports of today, this story unfolds with tension over nuclear arms in Syria and Iran and those armaments being pointed at Israel. Joel Rosenberg is a recognized authority on the Middle East and also on Biblical understanding of that area.
In Damascus Countdown Mr. Rosenberg takes us through passages in Isaiah that point to the fate of Syria and Iran. We see the story unfolding with a CIA deep cover operative and team leader, David Shirazi, alias Reza Tabrizi, who is also Iranian by birth. The book begins with a bang and each page you turn brings scenes of intrigue, of explosive events, of political adversaries on both sides of the ocean, and of spiritual emboldenment by converts from Islam to Christianity.
If you're expecting a sweet little romance, this is not the book for you. If you're expecting a feel-good story - even with a bit of adventure, this is not the book for you. This book is long at 480 pages. It is dramatic. It is intense. It gives long interpretive discourses of Scripture. But it is not boring. It is not dry. It is not a "tear-jerker." This book will capture your attention and hold it until you turn page 479.
In Rosenberg's fiction you will discover finely tuned and developed characters. You will visualize the scenes he so aptly describes and almost feel the intensity the characters feel. And you will discover individuals who have willingly and joyfully counted the cost, and counted it very small indeed, to convert to Christianity.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale Blog Network on behalf of the publisher and author in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. i received no compensation for this review.
October 18, 2018
Even though this is the standard spy-thriller, it’s still quite good. In terms of technical novel-writing, it succeeds at all levels. It also communicates an urgency for the gospel. And while Joel Rosenberg’s eschatology is off (and I will argue that even on pre-trib standards it doesn’t always work), he captures the “prophetic thrust” of the Middle East.
Basic plot-line: David Shirazi is an Iranian-American who is a CIA asset in Iran. In earlier books Shirazi had penetrated the Madhi’s intelligence network, but time is running out.
Rosenberg writes his novel around the Shi’ite concept of the “12th Imam,” the Islamic lord of the age who would destroy the Great and Little Satans. Not surprisingly, this ties in with current speculation on Iran.
Problems:
Even on a pre-tribulational reading of Gog and Magog, it’s not clear that his scenario fits. Ezekiel says Israel will be at peace, then the nations of the world will strike. Okay, but Israel is not at peace and the nations of the world aren’t striking, just Iran, Hamas, and Syria. Even the bogeyman Russia isn’t involved, and Russia is key for Rosenberg’s larger scenario.
Basic plot-line: David Shirazi is an Iranian-American who is a CIA asset in Iran. In earlier books Shirazi had penetrated the Madhi’s intelligence network, but time is running out.
Rosenberg writes his novel around the Shi’ite concept of the “12th Imam,” the Islamic lord of the age who would destroy the Great and Little Satans. Not surprisingly, this ties in with current speculation on Iran.
Problems:
Even on a pre-tribulational reading of Gog and Magog, it’s not clear that his scenario fits. Ezekiel says Israel will be at peace, then the nations of the world will strike. Okay, but Israel is not at peace and the nations of the world aren’t striking, just Iran, Hamas, and Syria. Even the bogeyman Russia isn’t involved, and Russia is key for Rosenberg’s larger scenario.
March 15, 2013
'Damascus Countdown' is one of the most riveting books I've read this year. The story begins with Israel launching a preemptive strike against Iran hoping to eradicate their nuclear sites before the government under the Twelfth Iman can launch a nuclear attack. All seems to go well until an undercover CIA operative discovers that only six nuclear weapons have been destroyed and two have disappeared. David Shirazi,code named Zephyr must find the weapons and neutralize them, a difficult task when there seem to be no clues to follow. David Shirazi and his team face constant danger and death especially with the President holding a neutral position in the war, and the CIA providing limited support. It's a story of nerves stretched to their limits as the clock ticks down and of faith set against the backdrop of a destructive and tragic war fueled by desperation and hate. What makes this story powerful is its relevance today as Iran continues to bait the Israeli government with threats of annihilation. I couldn't put it down and highly recommend it to all those who love a great thriller.
April 5, 2013
All eyes are on the Middle East as Israel has successfully
launched a first strike against Iran and taken out all of
their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads. The
Twelfth Imam has ordered a full scale retaliation. CIA
operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian Regime
and intercepted messages indicating that two nuclear
warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure
location. David and his team are now in a race to find the
warheads for the Imam has vowed to destroy Israel. This is
about the sixth book of Mr Rosenberg's that I have read and
they all have been fine books. I rated this book at three
but it would have been much higher if Mr Rosenberg would
get out of the habit of inserting a lot of needless
religious psalms into the story and trying to convert
everyone.
launched a first strike against Iran and taken out all of
their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads. The
Twelfth Imam has ordered a full scale retaliation. CIA
operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian Regime
and intercepted messages indicating that two nuclear
warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure
location. David and his team are now in a race to find the
warheads for the Imam has vowed to destroy Israel. This is
about the sixth book of Mr Rosenberg's that I have read and
they all have been fine books. I rated this book at three
but it would have been much higher if Mr Rosenberg would
get out of the habit of inserting a lot of needless
religious psalms into the story and trying to convert
everyone.
March 8, 2014
This book is pure junk. Reading it as an Israeli, it was ridiculous all the way . I mean my way-which was only a third of the book. Couldn't go on any more. The plot is unbelievable. Besides, what are all the references to Jesus Christ ? Some times it's the all chapter. Is it some kind of a religious book ? At the beginning I thought that it might be emphasized on the reversed side, since the writer's father was Jewish. Later on it looked (the Christian part) more and more serious. As I mentioned, I read a third, and gave up.
March 25, 2015
I read the trilogy in about a week, and i was really excited to start this third book, hoping that some things will be explained. You see, after all the Christian propaganda and the Mahdi references, i was expecting some kind of metaphysical battle, or at least something to justify the heavy use of the Bible in books 2 and 3.
Alas, no. No real explanation of what the Mahdi was, how he managed to perform the miracles he did, why he did what he did, nothing. Mahdi just gets killed and that's it, no answers whatsoever.
Disappointing to say the least...
Alas, no. No real explanation of what the Mahdi was, how he managed to perform the miracles he did, why he did what he did, nothing. Mahdi just gets killed and that's it, no answers whatsoever.
Disappointing to say the least...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2013
Great story, talented storyteller but the doctrine spread throughout - more heavily than in past books - is so ridiculous, tv preacher-like, it makes the whole thing soap-opera-ish and cheapens the politics and action.
April 4, 2013
First and probably the last book from this author. By the end I was put off by the Evangical Christian rhetoric that was on every page. I would have given it 4 or 5 stars if he wasn't so adamant on trying to covert every reader !
April 8, 2017
Amazing Thriller!!!
Amazing conclusion to this 3 book series. Sad that it's over. I read all 3 books in just 1 week. Looking forward to reading Rosenberg's other books.
Amazing conclusion to this 3 book series. Sad that it's over. I read all 3 books in just 1 week. Looking forward to reading Rosenberg's other books.
October 29, 2024
For some reason, I took forever to finish this book.
There was more than enough espionage, speculation, action and scripture, so I am not sure why this book did not pull me in and kept me engaged right till the end.
There was more than enough espionage, speculation, action and scripture, so I am not sure why this book did not pull me in and kept me engaged right till the end.
December 5, 2017
loved it!
February 18, 2024
The “mole” could have been kept hidden for a litttttttle longer but great book and fantastic series
March 23, 2021
Thoroughly enjoy your books Mr Rosenberg
August 14, 2013
I picked up this book, because the story described in the flap reminded me of a script a friend wrote, and I'm a fan of thrillers. However, as I plodded through the mediocre writing taking the preposterous plot at its face value, I began to suspect that I was being manipulated by an author who could very well serve as a minister of propaganda for an imaginary government department headed by the most extreme neo cons and their fundamentalist pals from the religious right. That led me to look at the back and to find a list of fans that completely confirmed my suspicions, everyone from the inimitable Rush Limbaugh to Netanyahu, who probably added the bit where the PM of Israel had to suffer through the implausible phone call from someone at the UN chastising Israel for fighting back against a nuclear Iran, presumably because the "evil" UN is run by nuclear enablers?!? Oh, and by the way, the enemy just happened to be an Iranian claiming to be a deity and hell bent of restarting the Caliphate. I gave the book one star so I could write a review, but I wanted to give it a heave out the window.
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