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Michael Neill #3
Trinity Icon
In Central Europe, Poland has rejected plans for an anti-missile shield—until a threat from beyond their borders causes disaster. During testing, an Iranian ICBM veers off course with tragic results, and the Polish government turns to NATO—and the United States—for protection. With the defensive shield now back on the table, National Security Advisor Willis Avery envisions an even broader network of emplacements. His strategy depends on the cooperation of the breakaway states—and the help of Captain Michael Neill. Tasked as a liaison, it’s Neill’s job to convince the republics. He enlists the aid of an old friend, General Andrei Ulyanov—and, if he can keep her alive, dynamic and beautiful journalist Viktoriya Gavrilenko. The stage is set for increased tension when the Russians threaten an arms race. Avery is targeted, and along the way, Neill becomes caught up in the search for a lost religious icon, foretold by legend to restore the faith of a disheartened people . . .
400 pages, Paperback
First published July 6, 2014
135 people want to read
About the author
Steve Wilson
5 books24 followersSteve Wilson is a multimedia designer and has worked in advertising for over 25 years. He is a prior service Marine and now serves as a senior NCO in the Air Force Reserve. He has deployed to Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, in addition to tours in the United States, Germany, and the Pacific, and has visited the former Soviet Union several times. He lives in Florida with his wife. 'Red Sky at Morning' is his first novel, and 'Tempest of Fire' is the second book in the Michael Neill adventure series. 'Trinity Icon' was published in 2014, and Steve is currently working on book four, 'Eye of Charybdis'.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
February 17, 2021
Murder/Mystery/Espionage and Romance; could not turn the pages fast enough--looking forward to reading additional works from Steve Wilson
August 15, 2014
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite at www.ReadersFavorite.com.
I have now had the pleasure of reading Trinity Icon, the third installment of Steve Wilson’s Michael Neill Adventures. The story opens with a tale from days long gone, when the Swedes invaded Poland. The story of the Swedes’ raid is passed through the ages, as survivors’ descendents continue to search for an icon missing from the church where Father Jakob was murdered on a snowy Christmas Eve in 1655. The story then picks up with Marine Captain Michael Neill. This time Neill is required to assist with events unfolding in Poland—events that include the antics of the Russians. Meanwhile, assassins pursue the lovely journalist, Viktoriya Gavrilenko, whom Neill met some time previously in Odessa, Russia. Viktoriya follows the story of the missing icon—a mystery that may finally be resolved, as an archeologist has found the sunken and long lost Swedish vessel on which he hopes the icon rests. Neill and others, including his love-interest, Marine Staff Sergeant Christina Arrens, seek to protect Viktoriya. At the same time, they endeavor to get the leaders of the surrounding countries to join together in opposition to Russia’s bully tactics. Throughout the tale, Wilson takes readers on a tour of beautiful and historic city and countryside venues in Poland and along the way, clues to the events of that dreadful murder in 1655 are revealed and the mystery of those days long gone, is ultimately solved.
I spent some time thinking about what I found most enjoyable about Steve Wilson’s Trinity Icon. I will identify the most notable points. First, I sincerely appreciate reading a work like this, which draws on my understanding of history and politics. The tale, with its frequent use of those “musical” Russian names, stirred my memories of long ago days, when I studied so much Russian history, politics and philosophy. Wilson has a thorough understanding of these things. For the well-versed, it makes for an enjoyable read. But even the lesser-informed reader could enjoy these tales—and learn something in the process. Second, I appreciate Wilson’s expertise regarding the military as an organization, and the weapons and tools (including aircraft) at their disposal. A reader is sure to gain some knowledge in these areas. (This one certainly did.) Third, it is rare to find a “leading man” of such authority and integrity as Michael Neill. At times, he seems almost unreal, as so few such men seem to exist today. But is that not the point of a great tale—to inspire and to challenge? Trinity Icon most certainly does so. Finally, I quite enjoyed the give and take between Neill and Arrens and those little touches that could only be dubbed “romance.” While military rules prohibit certain relationships, the story reveals their true affection for one another. This reader expects they will make decisions in the stories to come, such that they may fully entertain their feelings. But for now, this reader also is delighted to know that honorable men and women, though rare, do still exist.
Also posted at www.Oathtaker.com and on BookLikes, added on Facebook and tweeted, and cover pinned.
I have now had the pleasure of reading Trinity Icon, the third installment of Steve Wilson’s Michael Neill Adventures. The story opens with a tale from days long gone, when the Swedes invaded Poland. The story of the Swedes’ raid is passed through the ages, as survivors’ descendents continue to search for an icon missing from the church where Father Jakob was murdered on a snowy Christmas Eve in 1655. The story then picks up with Marine Captain Michael Neill. This time Neill is required to assist with events unfolding in Poland—events that include the antics of the Russians. Meanwhile, assassins pursue the lovely journalist, Viktoriya Gavrilenko, whom Neill met some time previously in Odessa, Russia. Viktoriya follows the story of the missing icon—a mystery that may finally be resolved, as an archeologist has found the sunken and long lost Swedish vessel on which he hopes the icon rests. Neill and others, including his love-interest, Marine Staff Sergeant Christina Arrens, seek to protect Viktoriya. At the same time, they endeavor to get the leaders of the surrounding countries to join together in opposition to Russia’s bully tactics. Throughout the tale, Wilson takes readers on a tour of beautiful and historic city and countryside venues in Poland and along the way, clues to the events of that dreadful murder in 1655 are revealed and the mystery of those days long gone, is ultimately solved.
I spent some time thinking about what I found most enjoyable about Steve Wilson’s Trinity Icon. I will identify the most notable points. First, I sincerely appreciate reading a work like this, which draws on my understanding of history and politics. The tale, with its frequent use of those “musical” Russian names, stirred my memories of long ago days, when I studied so much Russian history, politics and philosophy. Wilson has a thorough understanding of these things. For the well-versed, it makes for an enjoyable read. But even the lesser-informed reader could enjoy these tales—and learn something in the process. Second, I appreciate Wilson’s expertise regarding the military as an organization, and the weapons and tools (including aircraft) at their disposal. A reader is sure to gain some knowledge in these areas. (This one certainly did.) Third, it is rare to find a “leading man” of such authority and integrity as Michael Neill. At times, he seems almost unreal, as so few such men seem to exist today. But is that not the point of a great tale—to inspire and to challenge? Trinity Icon most certainly does so. Finally, I quite enjoyed the give and take between Neill and Arrens and those little touches that could only be dubbed “romance.” While military rules prohibit certain relationships, the story reveals their true affection for one another. This reader expects they will make decisions in the stories to come, such that they may fully entertain their feelings. But for now, this reader also is delighted to know that honorable men and women, though rare, do still exist.
Also posted at www.Oathtaker.com and on BookLikes, added on Facebook and tweeted, and cover pinned.
August 5, 2014
This review is my genuine appraisal per the author's request; and I am honored to have been asked to do so.
FIRST, if you are a news junkie like I am or even if you just keep up on world affairs, you're in for the best foreign policy roller coaster. I followed every drop of news when Putin was storming the borders of Ukraine and I felt like this book gave me insider information. I'm astonished that this author pegged the situation in Russia and Ukraine as though he were reporting live rather than writing fiction at least months in advance. As you get into the vast underpinnings of this plot, you feel like you're reading an exposé rather than a novel.
SECOND, the only caveat I have to my rating of five stars, is in my humble opinion, a short paragraph (a prologue of sorts) about this time in history, would have really elevated the stage the author subsequently set.
THIRD, I absolutely loved the awkwardness of the banter between Captain Neill and Staff Sergeant Arrens. It was like reading a page of my own diary in a wonderful yet innocently intimate way.
FOURTH, these characters live up to this author's incredible character-development reputation, but the names seemed a bit difficult to pronounce in my mind and a couple times, my concentration was broken by trying to mentally pronounce the names.
FIFTH, as with the first two stories, the aspect of faith is a beautifully predominant undercurrent. I know that statement seems contradictory, but after you read it, see if you agree.
SIXTH, this author must have been stationed in Poland or been there for a stay of some kind to be able to so descriptively paint a scenic picture.
This third novel in the saga of Captain Michael Neill truly captivated my mind, my heart, and my adventurous side. For those who love our military, this author NEVER disappoints!
I want to thank Steve Wilson for his unselfish service to this amazing country on this Independence Day Weekend.
Jane
FIRST, if you are a news junkie like I am or even if you just keep up on world affairs, you're in for the best foreign policy roller coaster. I followed every drop of news when Putin was storming the borders of Ukraine and I felt like this book gave me insider information. I'm astonished that this author pegged the situation in Russia and Ukraine as though he were reporting live rather than writing fiction at least months in advance. As you get into the vast underpinnings of this plot, you feel like you're reading an exposé rather than a novel.
SECOND, the only caveat I have to my rating of five stars, is in my humble opinion, a short paragraph (a prologue of sorts) about this time in history, would have really elevated the stage the author subsequently set.
THIRD, I absolutely loved the awkwardness of the banter between Captain Neill and Staff Sergeant Arrens. It was like reading a page of my own diary in a wonderful yet innocently intimate way.
FOURTH, these characters live up to this author's incredible character-development reputation, but the names seemed a bit difficult to pronounce in my mind and a couple times, my concentration was broken by trying to mentally pronounce the names.
FIFTH, as with the first two stories, the aspect of faith is a beautifully predominant undercurrent. I know that statement seems contradictory, but after you read it, see if you agree.
SIXTH, this author must have been stationed in Poland or been there for a stay of some kind to be able to so descriptively paint a scenic picture.
This third novel in the saga of Captain Michael Neill truly captivated my mind, my heart, and my adventurous side. For those who love our military, this author NEVER disappoints!
I want to thank Steve Wilson for his unselfish service to this amazing country on this Independence Day Weekend.
Jane
August 19, 2014
In Trinity Icon, readers are greeted by some familiar characters and introduced to a few new ones. One character is an interesting twist to Michael’s background story that we thought we knew as readers of the Michael Neill novels. I loved the new dimension this particular character added to the story, and while it drove me nuts, I liked that not everything was revealed in this book.
Michael has spent some time stateside, but it’s time for him to head back overseas. This particular assignment fits him perfectly due to the location. During this assignment, ghosts from the past come back to haunt him, and things are revealed that take him by surprise. While he’s dealing with the riggers of the current assignment, he is also trying to sort out his feelings for his fellow Marine which is complicated by the fact that he is an officer and she is enlisted.
Trinity Icon moved a little slower for me than the previous two Michael Neill novels, but it did not fail to hold my attention and keep me reading. There was a lot of information and history packed into the story which caused me to need to pay more attention to the details to get a better picture of everything taking place within the story. In fact, the book started out with the history of a certain town and relic before jumping into the present day. It then went back in time to that same story at the conclusion of the novel.
Once again, Steve Wilson’s understanding of the military allows his books and characters to feel natural and realistic. Of course, I can’t wait to see what will be revealed in the next book as there were a few details that were left up in the air in this book.
Disclosure: I received an digital ARC for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
Michael has spent some time stateside, but it’s time for him to head back overseas. This particular assignment fits him perfectly due to the location. During this assignment, ghosts from the past come back to haunt him, and things are revealed that take him by surprise. While he’s dealing with the riggers of the current assignment, he is also trying to sort out his feelings for his fellow Marine which is complicated by the fact that he is an officer and she is enlisted.
Trinity Icon moved a little slower for me than the previous two Michael Neill novels, but it did not fail to hold my attention and keep me reading. There was a lot of information and history packed into the story which caused me to need to pay more attention to the details to get a better picture of everything taking place within the story. In fact, the book started out with the history of a certain town and relic before jumping into the present day. It then went back in time to that same story at the conclusion of the novel.
Once again, Steve Wilson’s understanding of the military allows his books and characters to feel natural and realistic. Of course, I can’t wait to see what will be revealed in the next book as there were a few details that were left up in the air in this book.
Disclosure: I received an digital ARC for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
May 11, 2016
The government of Poland has turned to NATO and the U.S. for protection in an arms war. With Captain Michael Neill as liaison, (in Volume III of The Michael Neill Adventure Series) we encounter a tense stand-off. A valuable religious icon, missing since the 1600s, is suspected to be buried in a swampy area being excavated by a scientific organization. Meanwhile, an assassin has been hired to kill a newspaper reporter as international intrigue involving numerous nations comes to a head in this terrific action adventure story.
For those who enjoy military novels this is a must read. History buffs would also find this most satisfying. A sweet love interest is introduced which develops as our hero is facing life and death challenges. Murder, suspense, romance, attempted assassinations, enshrouded religious mystery; this book offers a myriad of topics which keep the story flowing. The action begins at the first page and continues through to the last. Religious quotes and occasional biblical passages are scattered throughout the story which add to the flow of the story and help develop the personality of our hero. Trinity Icon is a fascinating read and anything but predictable!
May 28, 2015
Another great read from author Steve Wilson. Trinity Icon doesn't disappoint. It starts off in a critical point in history, then moves along building toward modern-day action, to an unexpected conclusion. The disparities in purpose of politics and religion often create unique situations and there's no shortage of those here. The author's perspectives, as seen through the characters are fascinating. I'm glad to see that the author brought back some of the key characters that were part of Michael Neill's team in Tempest of Fire.
A full review of Trinity Icon can be viewed at http://show-me-reviews.blogspot.com/2... and http://www.idyllbooks.com/2015/05/tri... .
A full review of Trinity Icon can be viewed at http://show-me-reviews.blogspot.com/2... and http://www.idyllbooks.com/2015/05/tri... .
September 14, 2015
An international thriller for our age with dynamic characters, political intrigue, great danger, historical mysterious, and even possible divine intervention, really.
My copy was a gift from Goodreads First Reads.
My copy was a gift from Goodreads First Reads.
September 24, 2014
"Trinity Icon"is the third book in the (Michael Neill Adventure Series ) and I have enjoyed reading all three. “Trinity Icon was not as fast reading for me as the other two but I still enjoyed reading it.
"Trinity Icon” reveals more facts about Michael Neill’s father’s death. We also learn the history of a legend about a raid by Swedes and how through the ages, survivors’ descendants continue to search for an icon missing from the church where Father Jakob was murdered on a snowy Christmas Eve in 1655. The journalist,Viktoriya Gavrilenko, whom Michael met previously in Odessa, Russia is following the story and has assassins trying to end her life. Michael is sent to Poland to help protect her and to enlist Poland’s help to combat Russia’s tactics.
“Trinity Icon” as well as the other two books in this series allows the reader to travel to different countries and learn about Marine Corps policies and tactics in a safe and fun way and not too technical and without giving away “ how things are really done”.
I am having a hard time picking out my favorite story line of “Trinity Icon” is it the romance between Marine Staff Sergeant Christina Arrens and Michael and that they try to deny the attraction because of the Marine Corps rules, or is it the ending. I was totally surprised, I really didn’t see it coming! Maybe, I should just say I loved the entire book and the series and hope you check them out for yourself. This reader likes to think men like Michael Neill does exist and is protecting our world.
“Trinity Icon” by Steve Wilson gets five stars!
There is a fourth book coming soon and you know I will be reading it as there are still more secrets to be revealed.
I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew
"Trinity Icon” reveals more facts about Michael Neill’s father’s death. We also learn the history of a legend about a raid by Swedes and how through the ages, survivors’ descendants continue to search for an icon missing from the church where Father Jakob was murdered on a snowy Christmas Eve in 1655. The journalist,Viktoriya Gavrilenko, whom Michael met previously in Odessa, Russia is following the story and has assassins trying to end her life. Michael is sent to Poland to help protect her and to enlist Poland’s help to combat Russia’s tactics.
“Trinity Icon” as well as the other two books in this series allows the reader to travel to different countries and learn about Marine Corps policies and tactics in a safe and fun way and not too technical and without giving away “ how things are really done”.
I am having a hard time picking out my favorite story line of “Trinity Icon” is it the romance between Marine Staff Sergeant Christina Arrens and Michael and that they try to deny the attraction because of the Marine Corps rules, or is it the ending. I was totally surprised, I really didn’t see it coming! Maybe, I should just say I loved the entire book and the series and hope you check them out for yourself. This reader likes to think men like Michael Neill does exist and is protecting our world.
“Trinity Icon” by Steve Wilson gets five stars!
There is a fourth book coming soon and you know I will be reading it as there are still more secrets to be revealed.
I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew
August 4, 2014
The third book in the Michael Neill series is a little different from the first two. Trinity Icon gives me the chance to expand Captain Neill’s universe, flesh out more of his background, and explore the unpredictable world of geo-politics.
This third installment has allowed me to bring back several characters from Red Sky at Morning and Tempest of Fire. Andrei Ulyanov is front and center, along with the popular Ukrainian journalist, Viktoriya Gavrilenko. Readers will also be pleased with the appearance of a few others, heroes and villains alike. And as always, Trinity Icon will be a faith-based yarn, with strong elements of espionage and mystery.
What surprised me about this book is the way some characters have taken on a life of their own. In Red Sky at Morning, Viktoriya was just such a character. Her presence in the book was almost an afterthought. At first she was just a foil to help move the story along, but she soon became an integral player.
In Trinity Icon, another individual has risen to the top. In my outline for the story, this person was nameless, intended to fulfill an important but minor role. But after adding a little depth and pathos, I am considering a corollary series built around this character.
All of that speaks to the creative process, and that fiction is truly fluid. At times I find myself as much a spectator to the series as my readers. The twists and turns compel me to keep writing, and I hope that fans of the Michael Neill series will keep coming back for more.
This third installment has allowed me to bring back several characters from Red Sky at Morning and Tempest of Fire. Andrei Ulyanov is front and center, along with the popular Ukrainian journalist, Viktoriya Gavrilenko. Readers will also be pleased with the appearance of a few others, heroes and villains alike. And as always, Trinity Icon will be a faith-based yarn, with strong elements of espionage and mystery.
What surprised me about this book is the way some characters have taken on a life of their own. In Red Sky at Morning, Viktoriya was just such a character. Her presence in the book was almost an afterthought. At first she was just a foil to help move the story along, but she soon became an integral player.
In Trinity Icon, another individual has risen to the top. In my outline for the story, this person was nameless, intended to fulfill an important but minor role. But after adding a little depth and pathos, I am considering a corollary series built around this character.
All of that speaks to the creative process, and that fiction is truly fluid. At times I find myself as much a spectator to the series as my readers. The twists and turns compel me to keep writing, and I hope that fans of the Michael Neill series will keep coming back for more.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews