Tom Clancy Defense Protocol

Jack Ryan Universe #40

by Brian Andrews, Jeffrey Wilson, Scott Brick (Narrator)

Jack Ryan returns in a blockbuster new novel of action, thrills and intrigue in the No.1 bestselling world created by master storyteller Tom Clancy.

For decades, Taiwan has been a thorn in the side of the Chinese government. New Chinese President Li Jian Jun is done fooling around. He's devised a secret military operation to take the island. Only one man knows how to stop Li's bloody plan for Minister of Defense Qin Haiyu. Fearing for his life and the safety of his family, Qin covertly makes contact with the CIA in Beijing and signals his desire to defect to the West.

To get Qin out, John Clark creates an international task force reminiscent of Rainbow Six and goes undercover in mainland China. Meanwhile, Lt. Commander Katie Ryan is deployed to the tip of the spear on the destroyer USS Jason Dunham to defend Taiwan. Threatened by an encircling Chinese armada, she's under pressure to find a flaw in the invaders' plan for her father to exploit.

For his part, President Jack Ryan may have the power of the entire US military at his disposal, but what he really needs are Li's secret plans from Defense Minister Qin so he can stave off a war. Because America's Defense Protocol could lead to a game of mutual destruction that could cost the lives of thousands of young soldiers, sailors, special operators . . . and his daughter.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Audiobook, Espionage, Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Spy Thriller

Audible Audio

First published December 3, 2024

About the author

Brian is a US Navy veteran, nuclear engineer, and former submarine officer. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in psychology, holds a Master's in business from Cornell University, and is a Park Leadership Fellow. He is a principal contributor at Career Authors, a site dedicated to advancing the careers of aspiring and published writers: www.careerauthors.com.

He is half of Andrews & Wilson, the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, & #1 Amazon best-selling co-author team behind the TIER ONE series. New in 2025:

- DARK RISING: (APRIL)
- SONS OF VALOR 4: (7/22)
- THE ADVERSARY: Tier One #9 (11/4)
- EXECUTIVE POWER (11/25)

In addition to their novels, Andrews & Wilson have multiple projects under development for film and television with major motion picture studios including Tier One, Dark Intercept, 4 Minutes, Portal, Glitch, and The In Between.

Find Brian online at:

Web: www.andrews-wilson.com
Instagram: @andrewsandwilson
Twitter: @BAndrewsJWilson

Sign-up for his newsletter at www.andrews-wilson.com to stay informed about all his new releases or "Follow" his Amazon Author page!

Reviews

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Tom Clancy Defense Protocol, Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson prove themselves worthy successors to Tom Clancy's legacy, crafting a sophisticated thriller that explores the volatile dynamics of US-China relations through the lens of Taiwan's independence. This latest addition to the Jack Ryan universe masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of international intrigue that feels remarkably prescient in today's geopolitical landscape.

Plot and Narrative Structure

The story unfolds through three main narrative threads that converge brilliantly. At its core is Chinese Defense Minister Qin Haiyu's desperate attempt to prevent an invasion of Taiwan by defecting to the West. This personal drama is expertly balanced against the larger geopolitical crisis, with President Jack Ryan working to prevent a catastrophic war while his daughter, Lt. Commander Katie Ryan, stands at the frontline aboard the USS Jason Dunham.

Andrews and Wilson demonstrate remarkable skill in maintaining tension across these parallel storylines. The pacing is relentless yet controlled, allowing readers to fully absorb the complex political and military dynamics while keeping them on the edge of their seats. The authors excel at transitioning between the intimate personal struggles of their characters and the broader international crisis, creating a narrative that feels both grand in scope and deeply human.

Character Development

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its nuanced character portrayals. The authors have crafted complex, three-dimensional characters who transcend typical thriller archetypes. Defense Minister Qin, in particular, emerges as a fascinating study in moral complexity – a patriot forced to betray his country to save it. His relationship with the mysterious spy known as the Spider adds depth to his character while providing crucial insights into Chinese society and politics.

Katie Ryan's evolution from intelligence analyst to frontline defender showcases the authors' ability to create strong, competent female characters without falling into stereotypes. Her relationship with her father, President Jack Ryan, adds emotional depth to the story while raising the stakes of the military confrontation.

Technical Authenticity

True to the Clancy tradition, the novel demonstrates impressive technical accuracy in its portrayal of military hardware, tactics, and procedures. The authors' backgrounds in naval special operations lend authenticity to the combat sequences and military planning sessions. Their description of naval operations in the Taiwan Strait and the intricate details of covert operations in Beijing reflect a deep understanding of modern warfare and intelligence operations.

Political Insights

The novel's portrayal of US-China relations is particularly noteworthy for its complexity and nuance. The authors avoid simplistic good-versus-evil narratives, instead presenting a sophisticated exploration of competing national interests, personal loyalties, and moral obligations. The character of Chinese President Li Jian Jun is especially well-drawn – an ambitious leader whose actions, while aggressive, stem from comprehensible political and personal motivations.

Writing Style and Prose

Andrews and Wilson have successfully captured the essence of Clancy's writing style while adding their own contemporary flair. The prose is crisp and efficient, with technical details woven seamlessly into the narrative. The authors excel at creating vivid action sequences while maintaining clarity in complex military and political scenarios.

Areas for Improvement

While the novel largely succeeds in its ambitious goals, there are some minor shortcomings. The multiple storylines, while engaging, occasionally result in pacing issues, particularly in the middle section where some plot threads receive less attention than others. Additionally, some readers might find the technical details overwhelming, though this is a common characteristic of the genre.

Impact and Relevance

What sets Defense Protocol apart is its timely relevance to current geopolitical tensions. The authors' exploration of Taiwan's strategic importance and the delicate balance of power in the South China Sea resonates strongly with today's headlines, making the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Final Verdict

Tom Clancy Defense Protocol successfully honors Clancy's legacy while bringing fresh perspectives and contemporary relevance to the genre. The novel will satisfy longtime fans of the Ryan universe while appealing to new readers interested in modern geopolitical thrillers.

[Terence M - [Quot libros, quam breve tempus!] · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-Stars ^ 4.0-Stars for Andrews & Wilson - Jack Ryan #25 - Defence Protocol
Audible Direct: 15:02 Hours - Narrator: Scott Brick
I don't know yet. It's definitely not worth the 5-Stars rating I awarded to "Tom Clancy - Act of Defiance" earlier this year, but it is worth at least 3-Stars and probably a bit more, 4-Stars maybe? 3.5-Stars? Round up or round down? Decisions, decisions...
Let's say 3.5-Stars for the time being - with a round up/round down decision to be finalised😀🥴 **

** Edit - July 27, 2025:
I have finalised my rating, it is now 3.5-Stars ^ 4.0-Stars

My Review:
As usual, I do not provide much detail about the book's storyline, plots, etc, as I presume readers here will have at least read the 'blurb' of "Defence Protocol". My review and final rating will be done soon, but in the meantime, here are some extracts from my Listening Activity:

March 04, '25 @ 67%: "Lots of hi-temp action involving the Chinese and the US navies, with confrontations between the countries' respective Presidents. Not beyond the realms of plausibility, I suppose, given the current political situation!"

March 08, '25 @ 85%: "I have not enjoyed this as much as "Tom Clancy - Act of Defiance" (5-Stars) which I heard in January '25. This effort by Andrews & Wilson feels and sounds rushed, and its editing was less than satisfactory, e.g., hearing "Taking a knee" instead of "knelt" or "kneeling" - so many times I lost count! Thank you, the blessed Tim Tebow!"

March 08, '25 @ 99%: "I am happy that I have finished this book. While it was written well enough, I became distracted by the bloated, repetitious nature of the dialogue. So, it was a Jack Ryan novel - did it need to be 15 hours long? How long? I don't know but a good editor would."

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story is able to hold interest.

[SusanTalksBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just published December 2024, this Jack Ryan series release features US forces fighting a suspected overtaking of Taiwan by China with a nefarious plot to portray the attack as a response to American aggression. At this stage in the series we have Jack's (US President) daughter as a team-lead due to her training, experience, and instincts, as inspired/honed by her father. Maybe I'm the only non-military reader who finds it completely unrealistic that the daughter of a sitting US President can openly participate in highly-charged global military actions, but doesn't even have a hint of personal protection?

I have no doubt that Tom Clancy fans all know he passed away quite a while ago and other writers are continuing his storylines, but I find the cover design misleading and annoying with his name at the front and center in huge font, with no mention of "inspired by" or "based on the series by". This really should stop, as it just feels like a marketing ploy by publishers that isn't respectful of readers or the actual authors - Brian Andrews, Jeffrey Wilson - mentioned by last name at the bottom of the cover in small font.

As for the story, it balances the million acronyms and technical military detail with a simple chronological plot line using minimal flashbacks to the Spider's younger days to set up her character. While the plot is based on what feels like a realistic scenario with China, I questioned the lack of suspense in all the areas where I should have felt it. The characters are all nearly perfect in their execution and there are few (if any really) mis-steps except for a single death that I actually didn't feel was necessary. I would have preferred to read a plot development that actually had me wondering about the mission outcome and even who the good guys or bad guys were, in particular with regard to the Chinese government. I also strongly expected a particular ending for the Spider that wasn't delivered and felt like a huge missed opportunity and plot gap.

So if you're a reader who prefers a low-tension well-written story by authors well versed in military tactics and training, this book delivers. But if you're looking for Red October intrigue and excitement while you contemplate global geo-politics, this isn't it. 3-stars and book #2 for my 2025 challenge.

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest entry in the popular Jack Ryan series, this one was a real page turner from start to finish. The plot focuses on China and Taiwan in general and Taiwan's political status in particular. The crew must do their best to avert all out war with China while protecting US assets in the area. This is the second book in a row to feature Katie Ryan, POTUS's daughter, as a main character. Overall a very good book and a worthy effort.

[Monnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading several of these books, the Jack Ryan family - Jack Sr., his wife Cathy, and children Jack Jr. and Katie - almost feel like family to me (and it doesn't hurt that I'm married to a guy of the same name). But I look forward to reading them because they never fail to disappoint - and this one's no exception. Actually, Jack Jr. doesn't enter the fray here except in the occasional mention of his name - he's got his own series going now - but rising Navy officer Katie sure does. It's fun to watch as she starts to sound and act more like her father - now the President of the United States - every single day.

This time out, the story involves an attempt by the greedy and corrupt leader of China to attack and take over Taiwan - a headline ripper if there ever was one. But of course, it can't be seen as an outright act of war; the Chinese need to pass the blame on to someone else and have concocted an elaborate plan to accomplish that. But early on, Chinese defense minister Qin Haiyu realizes the damage such an act will cause to their own people - a fact the current leader is choosing to ignore - and surreptitiously passes a message to an American ambassador to sound the alert (silently, of course). It's an act of courage that easily could backfire if if the ambassador doesn't realize what's going on or believes it's some kind of scam - and heaven help him if he's caught. But the man has put his very life on the line, as well as those of his wife and two children, who are enjoying a vacation in the Maldives.

The message was received, but the intent wasn't very clear until Katie offers her insights - demonstrated to be spot-on in a previous book, the powers that be in the United States - including the President and his trusted director of national security, Mary Pat Foley - buy in. Collectively, they lock into the need to get Qin out of China and his family out of the Maldives - as quickly as possible. Given China's nearly impenetrable internal defense systems, accomplishing that is next to impossible; exfiltrating all four puts the U.S. teams in nearly unsurmountable danger. Without help from an internal spy - a woman known as the Night Spider - either or both missions likely will end in failure. But first, they have to get a message to her - and doing that alone could get everyone, including her, very dead.

The rest of the book centers on the details of both exfiltrations, with chapters shifting from China to the President's office to Katie's latest assignments as well as the Chinese efforts to run up a false flag in the Taiwan takeover effort. As always, it's all very exciting - holding my attention from beginning to end. Also as always, the devil is in the details, but those you'll have to read for yourself. I'll just thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to get in on the action by way of a pre-release copy. Well done once again!

[SteVen Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review – Tom Clancy Defense Protocol – Andrews & Wilson
Military veterans turn authors Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson continue to usher in the next generation of Ryans in their second Tom Clancy Jack Ryan thriller, “Defense Protocol.”

The Clancy “Ryanverse” winning formula is well at play in this intense and thrilling narrative about a power-mad Chinese president that threatens the independent government of the island of Taiwan.

Familiar character John Clark returns in this story to create an international task force reminiscent of Rainbow Six (my all-time favorite Tom Clancy book) and goes undercover in mainland China to help stop the Chinese invasion. New character and Ryan’s daughter, Navy Lt. Commander Katie Ryan also appears again in this story and is deployed on the destroyer USS Jason Dunham to defend Taiwan and to help her father, Jack Ryan Sr., exploit and interrupt the Chinese aggression.

Overwhelming plot twists and turns, loads of military action, new and familiar characters, and gripping real word espionage scenarios made this book an ‘outstanding’ end of the year read. I really enjoyed this story!

Andrews and Wilson are such incredible and outstanding storytellers, and the Clancy estate couldn’t have chosen a better writing duo to carry on the Clancy Jack Ryan legacy.

Military thriller readers would be remised to miss reading this high-stakes, high-intensity, next-generation Jack Ryan novel. It’s really good!

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrews and Wilson, in their 2nd foray into the world of Jack Ryan have once again shown their experience and writing chops, delivering a knockout.

The Chinese President is trying to cement his legacy by taking Taiwan back into the fold. ONI Lt Katie Ryan is following the breadcrumbs and has suspicions which she kicks up the ladder, and the race is on.

No sign of Jack Jr, but Clark and Ding are center stage in an attempt to free a Chinese Admiral who may be the key to it all.

[Dave Wickenden · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Chinese President, Li Jian Jun plans to start a war to pull Taiwan under communist rule regardless of the American presence. The Defense Minister, believing this is a mad plan that could destroy his country, contacts an American diplomat that is actually a CIA agent. To get him out, John Clark pulls together an international response team to pull the Minister out.

On the open seas, Lt. Commander Katie Ryan must outsmart the enemy ships that are running straight at them before this invasion escalates to WWIII.

The story comes right out of the news headlines and reads like a tactical war plan. The authors’ experience shines an authenticity that makes it all the more real. Hang on to your seat!

[Mike Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrews and Wilson deliver again on their second attempt at storytelling within the Jack Ryan Universe. Chinese President Li is devising a plan to reunite Taiwan with mainland China making the Taiwanese look the like aggressors allowing him to attack. He believes President Jack Ryan and the United States have no stomach for war with China and will allow this to happen. The Chinese Defense Minister disagrees and decides to defect bringing along the plans of the invasion. With limited resources in China, it will be up to a long time undercover agent and the Campus to lead the Defense Minister out of China. Meanwhile, Katie Ryan is back in the thick of action and is on the frontlines as she tries to determine the Chinese plan, and prevent it before World War III can start.

This book is everything you want in a Jack Ryan thriller. The scope of the plot covers the world and there are a wide variety of characters that play major roles within the book. The book spends a good amount of time dealing with both the Chinese and America governments as well as following the campus’ race to get out the Chinese Defense Minister and the exploits of Katie Ryan. Long time Tom Clancy fans will appreciate the amount of detail provided to all the military ships, subs, and weapons involved. If you are like me and that isn’t as important to you, don’t worry. The technical detail does not drag or slow down the story at all.

Katie Ryan, President Ryan’s daughter, is back, and is proving to be a chip off the old block. While Jack Jr seems more apt to act, Katie is a good mixture of thought and action, just like her dad. I hope she continues her prominent role in the series as she is a very strong character. My only disappointment in this move, is it looks like Jack Ryan Jr has been cast off to stand alone novels. Hopefully in the future we can see a novel with both Jack Jr and Katie playing major roles.

Defense Protocol is a great addition to the series, and I recommend you pick up this book when it is published on December 3rd. It has the feel of a Tom Clancy book, and it is an easy read. Thank you to Netgalley, Brian Andrews, Jeffrey Wilson, and Penguin Putnam Group for a free advance readers copy for an honest review.

[Debbie Wentworth Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The world had enough sociopaths and egoists. The bonds of friendship, loyalty, and commitment to a higher purpose was what powered the entire apparatus. Without that, it would all come crashing down like a house of cards." (p. 313)

When Chinese Minister of Defense Qin Haiyu discovers that his outspoken friend, Minister of Foreign Affairs Cheng Kai, has disappeared, he knows President Li Jian Jun is behind it. Qin fears he will disappear too when the president announces that China will use the upcoming war games to invade and take Taiwan, following a plan devised by Qin, Qin's fears grow as he discovers that the president has replaced Qin's carefully prepared research on what the cost will be in lives and to the economy with a much less realistic assessment. Li's decision will destroy China, so, despite the danger to himself, Qin sends his family on a scheduled vacation to the Maldives and passes word to the CIA agent at the American embassy.

Lieutenant-Colonel Katie Ryan of the Office of Naval Intelligence is not only a rising star in the intelligence community but the daughter of President Jack Ryan. As she studies the disappearance of Cheng Kai, Katie receives orders to go to Taiwan to head up an investigation into China's plan to attack Taiwan as revealed by Qin. One question is whether Qin is truthful in the brief information that he has given the CIA contact. The only U. S. agent still in China who can help Qin escape is a legendary agent of three decades who has long been sought but never found by the Chinese, Qiu Lei, code name The Spider.

President Ryan bolsters the U. S. presence around Taiwan and sends master operator John Clark into the maelstrom to see if his international agents can locate Qin and the Spider and extract them. As tensions rise, so do the chances that World War III will start in front of their eyes.

This is another complexly plotted thriller in the Clancy tradition. However, I've liked some of the writers who have followed Clancy more than Clancy himself because these books have much less profanity than the ones by Clancy. I appreciated the maps that Andrews and Wilson included but wish they had been more detailed. At times I wished they had included a list of military abbreviations and slang. Some of us don't understand some of these designations in this fast-paced, multiple viewpoint story.

[Jamie Bowen · Rating 5 out of 5]

President Li of China has reunification with Taiwan in his sights and has a plan which is going to leave the Americans too slow to respond. But when some of his cabinet begins to have doubts, the secret might get out. John Clark is sent on a dangerous mission with a new task force to get the Chinese minister for defence out. In the meantime can Jack Ryan’s daughter, Katie join the dots in the intelligence information and stop world war three.

This felt like a Tom Clancy novel of old. High stakes, detailed technical knowledge and excitement, it had it all and I loved it. Clancy was renowned for almost predicting the future with some of his books, you wonder how close this book might be from what could happen.

[Laura Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book

I stayed up until 2 am reading this book finishing it in one day. This is one of the best Jack Ryan books I've read. Will read it again.

[Kerry Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will make every Clancy fan excited!! Andrews and Wilson were perfect to take over the Jack Sr franchise!!

[Lindsey Barger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katie Ryan made a name for herself not because she’s the president’s daughter, but because she has an uncanny ability to predict an enemy’s next move. Just like her father. As much as she would like to work a job behind a desk as an analyst, her skill and persuasive ability has her back out on the front lines – this time in the Pacific. With the full resources of the US Navy, the Seals, and several covert ops groups, Katie has to prevent Chinese war games from turning into a real invasion of Taiwan and rescue CIA assets from the government they are desperate to shut down.

Tom Clancy Defense Protocol is Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson’s second addition to the Jack Ryan series and the legacy of Tom Clancy. Following Ryan’s daughter through life and death situations, these writers have brought new life and energy to the Ryanverse. A female lead has attracted a new audience, but the writers stay true to the military thriller theme made main stream by Clancy. This is a book about trusting your network and the danger ever-present for Americans overseas.

I give Tom Clancy Defense Protocol 4 out of 5 stars. If this plot seems a bit familiar, it is. Much like the first addition by these authors Act of Defiance echoes back to Clancy’s original release The Hunt for the Red October, this novel echoes back to Clancy’s third release in this series The Cardinal of the Kremlin. Recycling plots has been come more mainstream with many movies and TV shows revisiting beloved favorites of yesteryear. However, I am surprised to find it happen here. I appreciate the way the authors bring in the cast of supporting characters we have grown to love over the years, but some of the action felt unnecessary and gratuitous. Further, the ending felt anticlimactic. They spent so much time building up a story around several cast members only to barely discuss them at the end.

With discussions of war, violence, and murder, this book would be best directed to more mature audiences over 16. If you enjoy military thrillers or political fiction, you will love this book. This would be a great book for someone new to the Ryanverse – while reading at least the next previous book would be beneficial to understand a few references in the story, it could be a standalone read for someone new. However, if you have read the Jack Ryan books extensively and are a purest, this novel may irk you for how similar yet how different these authors approach this storyline.

I was excited to see this novel available on Netgalley – I’ve been able to read a few of the recent Ryan releases through this program. I appreciate the attempt to make Katie the star of the show in Andrews & Wilson’s version of the Ryanverse. It’s great to see a new up and comer, plus the daughter, take on a leading role!

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another home run thriller by Andrews & Wilson with the President of China trying a false flag op. to take over Taiwan.
Great cast of characters(military, agencies, political), an intense plot, and a whole lot of action.
Highly recommend reading this and any other book by Andrews & Wilson...they are the Dream Team of authors.
Thanks to NetGalley, PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the ARC of this fantastic thriller.

[Vicky F · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not stop reading this book. It had be hooked from the first page, the first chapter! Highly recommend to anyone who loves a good spy thriller!

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big fan of the direction Andrews & Wilson are taking the Ryan Universe. While I've loved almost all the authors that have taken over for Clancy, I feel like A&W write the series closer to the style of Clancy than anyone else has. I'm interested to see where Katie Ryan goes in her career and hope she truly follows in her fathers footsteps. Hopefully we get a Katie/Jack Jr. adventure at some point!

I’m curious though how Goodreads came up with the summary for the book - anyone else think it seems odd?

[Darren Bourn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to knock another brick out of the wall that is my TBR list by reading (one of the latest books in the Ryanverse), Tom Clancy Defense Protocol by Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson. This novel appears to be another potential spinoff in the vaunted "Ryanverse" (which, to those less initiated, is a broader term for the entire universe created by Tom Clancy, encompassing the Jack Ryan series and the related spinoffs - including both the John Clark and Jack Ryan Jr. series. After Clancy's passing on 1 October 2013, the series has been continued by various authors, expanding the universe further.)

This novel was released on 3 December 2024 and appears to the the second in the series by Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson, and released by Penguin Random House. This may have been the first post-Clancy book that I have read, and I really enjoyed delving back into the Ryanverse as Andrews and Wilson have proven themselves to be worthy successors to the legacy of Tom Clancy.

This latest addition to the Jack Ryan universe masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of international intrigue that feels remarkably prescient in today's geopolitical landscape.

The story unfolds through three main narrative threads that converge brilliantly. At its core is Chinese Defense Minister Qin Haiyu's desperate attempt to prevent an invasion of Taiwan by defecting to the West. This personal drama is expertly balanced against the larger geopolitical crisis, with President Jack Ryan working to prevent a catastrophic war while his daughter, Lt. Commander Katie Ryan, stands at the frontline aboard the USS Jason Dunham.

Andrews and Wilson demonstrate remarkable skill in maintaining tension across these parallel storylines. The pacing is relentless yet controlled, allowing readers to fully absorb the complex political and military dynamics while keeping them on the edge of their seats. The authors excel at transitioning between the intimate personal struggles of their characters and the broader international crisis, creating a narrative that feels both grand in scope and deeply human.

The premise of this intense and thrilling narrative is about a power-mad Chinese president who threatens the independent government of the island of Taiwan in a seemingly endless goal of reuniting the two nations, following the Government of the Republic of China being forced to relocate to Taiwan in December 1949 after the Republic of China Armed Forces and the Kuomintang were defeated in the Chinese Civil War.

Defense Protocol plays on an entirely plausible real-world scenario - the US fear that China will soon invade Taiwan. The United States maintains a decades-old promise to defend Taiwan against such aggression, but President Jack Ryan fears the effects of total war against China. He does not want to unnecessarily risk American lives, and he becomes all too aware that a slip of the tongue could provoke war. This scenario plays itself out as a high-stakes chess match between world powers on the brink of war.

Chinese President Li Jian Jun has ordered a military operation that will secure his legacy – reuniting Taiwan with mainland China. The plan is audacious, dangerous and Minister of Defense Qin Haiyu believes it to be disastrous for China. Risking everything, Qin reaches out to the Americans in an effort to protect the country he loves from becoming a global pariah. While President Jack Ryan works the diplomacy angle and prepares for war with his cabinet, John Clark is tasked with forming an international team similar to Rainbow Six to extract Qin and the American asset hiding him. Simultaneously, Navy Commander Katie Ryan, the president’s daughter, is deployed to Taiwan to collect intelligence and find a way for the US to thwart the Chinese President’s plans. Tensions are high and rising, and it’ll take everyone working together – and a little luck – to stop a bloody war from commencing.

On my self-determined five-star scale, I would definitely give this book a solid five stars, with the only drawback (tho this is likely more on my part than the authors', as I had not read the previous book written by Andrews & Wilson) is the numerous references to Katie Ryan's adventures aboard the Russian submarine, the Belgorod. I think that this book would definitely appeal to aficionados of the early Tom Clancy books. I further believe that fans of authors who are known for their technothrillers and spy fiction, including: (the estate of) Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, Mark Greaney, Daniel Silva, and (the estate of) Robert Ludlum, would enjoy this offering by Andrews and Wilson.

As with most of my literary ramblings, these are my five cents worth.

[Jeremy Lawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Old Legends and New Voices

Tom Clancy Defense Protocol is a gripping entry in the Jack Ryan universe, offering the intense action, complex plotting, and geopolitical intrigue that fans have come to expect. The authors skillfully navigate a high-stakes storyline while introducing fresh perspectives, including a strong role for Katie Ryan, whose presence adds depth and a new dynamic to the narrative.

The action is relentless and expertly written, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The integration of cutting-edge technology and current global threats makes the story feel both timely and plausible. Katie Ryan’s character development is a highlight, bringing a new voice to the Ryan family’s ongoing legacy and proving herself a capable and compelling addition to the team.

The only minor critique I have concerns the continued inclusion of John Clark. While his presence is always a thrill, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to envision a man probably in his seventies executing the physically demanding and covert operations that have defined his career. Perhaps it’s time for Clark to step into a mentorship role, guiding the next generation while still being honored as the legend he is.

Despite this, Tom Clancy Defense Protocol stands out as an excellent addition to the series. With a strong narrative and engaging characters, it’s a must-read for long-time fans and anyone who enjoys sophisticated, action-packed thrillers. The Ryanverse remains as compelling as ever, and I look forward to what comes next.

[Stuart Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brinkmanship, spycraft, and superb storytelling

Excellent sequel to "Act Of Defiance"#24 n the Jack Ryan universe. This installment is #25 and does not disappoint, but I recommend reading #24 ahead of "Defense Protocol". Tom get the inside story, it would be good to read "The Hunt For Red October" as well, these three could stand as a trilogy out of the Tom Clancy ouevre. The Chinese premier is on the verge of sparking an international conflict that his Defense Minister has war-gamed to justify the long hoped-for conquest of Taiwan and reunification with the Chinese regime. Once the Defense Minister realizes the Premier intends to take direct action on these plans, and not just use them as a case study for the Generals and Admirals to scrutinize, he realizes that he might have inadvertently set his country on a path to WWII and the death and devastation that may result.
By sending a message to an American envoy he suspects is CIA, he signals his intent to defect and pass the plans along before the actual attack is initiated, but must avoid the Chinese State Security in the process.
No spoilers. Does he succeed in preventing an attack? Is he able to escape China without putting his family at risk? How does he communicate without detection, knowing the sophistication of the Chinese surveillance state? A spellbinding thriller with action, high level strategy, intense action on the high seas, and espionage tradecraft, all the trademarks of a taut thriller in the Clancy tradition.

[Carl Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting non stop action between the USA & its allies in defense of Taiwan against a power hungry dictator leading China down the road to all out war. Lots of moving plots as most Clancy fans love. Andrews & Wilson do a great job putting this one together. A couple of the Campus staff are featured as is Katie Ryan, the 1st daughter and a naval officer. She’s got the old man’s brains for analysis and is fearless. Great read!

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I hadn’t read a Jack Ryan book since Tom Clancy passed away. An attempt to read one of “The Campus” alternatives just didn’t work for me.
I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of this story and will likely make an effort to go back and catch up on one of my favorite characters.

[Darryl Jacques · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, but not great, continuation of the series about Jack Ryan's presidency. China is planning on carrying out its takeover of Taiwan and is planning on staging a fake Taiwanese missel attack as an excuse for the invasion. The Chinese Defense Minister wants no part of the subterfuge and attempts to defect, with John Clark and his team attempting to sneak him out of China.

If you're a fan of the previous books in the series, you'll probably like it, but it won't attract many new fans.

[Glen House · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another terrific Tom Clancy book. If you're a fan, you'll enjoy it. If you've never read a Tom Clancy book, I recommend giving this a read. I enjoy fiction books with several storylines going on simultaneously that all intertwine with the bigger picture. While I miss Tom Clancy himself, the authors who continue his legacy are doing a good job.

[Wvogel61 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read in the known adventures of Jack Ryan. Present day story about the tension between the USA (e.g. world) and China. Some elements/parts of the story not so worked out, but the storyline is fine. It was nice to revive my memories of the Tom Clancy books.

[Oz Trekkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting fast paced action. Loved every page.

[Sabastian Burlison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Andrews and Wilson did it again! Out of all the Clancy Ghost Writers, they get the closest to what he did. I can't wait to see what they do with the next installment of this series.

[Coleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 🌟

[Denise Robider · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Read it during every free moment that I could find. Exhaled a lot after reading. I had no idea that I was holding my breath as I read.