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The Silver Fish
In this thrilling espionage fiction debut, an American journalist in Ghana is pulled into a dangerous struggle for control of the world’s fiber optic cables.
Journalist Danielle “Dani” Moreau has spent a lifetime trying to outrun the privilege she was born into. Fresh off a personal tragedy, she lands in Ghana to uncover corruption in the local oil industry. But when she crosses paths with James Aidoo, an idealistic young Ghanaian whose father is a local populist politician, Dani remembers what drew her to journalism in the first you go looking for a story, but when the real story appears, it’s never the one you expected.
Dani soon finds herself chasing a scoop that involves an American operative with a violent past, a Ghanaian double agent, and a fight between the United States and China over one of the world’s most dangerous and least-known fiber optic cables. Underwater tubes as thick as a garden hose, the cables snake along the seafloor carrying the world’s information at the speed of light from one continent to another, and the fight to control them is increasingly visible on the world’s front pages. Amidst this world-changing struggle, Dani and her new associates will be forced to make deadly choices that impact each other and their own lives in ways nobody expects.
A twisty double-cross narrative, The Silver Fish opens with a spy operation going horrifically off course and takes the reader sprinting through crowded markets, darkened bars, bustling ports, and steaming jungle on the way to a startling conclusion. It will leave the reader shocked, moved, better-informed—and eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the story.
Journalist Danielle “Dani” Moreau has spent a lifetime trying to outrun the privilege she was born into. Fresh off a personal tragedy, she lands in Ghana to uncover corruption in the local oil industry. But when she crosses paths with James Aidoo, an idealistic young Ghanaian whose father is a local populist politician, Dani remembers what drew her to journalism in the first you go looking for a story, but when the real story appears, it’s never the one you expected.
Dani soon finds herself chasing a scoop that involves an American operative with a violent past, a Ghanaian double agent, and a fight between the United States and China over one of the world’s most dangerous and least-known fiber optic cables. Underwater tubes as thick as a garden hose, the cables snake along the seafloor carrying the world’s information at the speed of light from one continent to another, and the fight to control them is increasingly visible on the world’s front pages. Amidst this world-changing struggle, Dani and her new associates will be forced to make deadly choices that impact each other and their own lives in ways nobody expects.
A twisty double-cross narrative, The Silver Fish opens with a spy operation going horrifically off course and takes the reader sprinting through crowded markets, darkened bars, bustling ports, and steaming jungle on the way to a startling conclusion. It will leave the reader shocked, moved, better-informed—and eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the story.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published April 7, 2026
3 people are currently reading
4949 people want to read
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Did Not Finish
March 31, 2026Foul language including The Lord’s name in vain. At 6%.
April 29, 2026
This debut espionage thriller pulled me in with its fast pace, layered secrets, and tension.
We follow Dani, an American journalist in Ghana chasing a story but also running from her past. As she digs deeper into a dangerous world of politics, power, and high stakes technology, the risks keep rising. There are twists, a double agent, and just enough character depth to keep you invested the whole way through.
If you love action packed thrillers with flawed characters and global intrigue, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.
We follow Dani, an American journalist in Ghana chasing a story but also running from her past. As she digs deeper into a dangerous world of politics, power, and high stakes technology, the risks keep rising. There are twists, a double agent, and just enough character depth to keep you invested the whole way through.
If you love action packed thrillers with flawed characters and global intrigue, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.
April 18, 2026
Wonderfully plotted and character driven novel. Did a great job of exploring geopolitics between the US/China and the shadow battles going on between them in an accessible way and explore that impact on the rest of the world. Setting this in Ghana I think was a great touch. Highly recommend.
April 30, 2026
"The Kingdom of Heaven runs on righteousness, but the Kingdom of Earth runs on oil.” Which is where this story begins. Because that quote may be from World War II, but journalist Danielle Moreau has come to Ghana in the here and now chasing a story with that same idea in mind. Not that bit about the righteousness in Heaven, but the part about Earth and oil.
She thinks she’s got the story of a lifetime by the tail – and she does. But the story she thinks she has is a story about Ghana selling its natural resources – particularly oil – to global powers both East and West, and the inevitable consequences that result from the influx of all that money combined with the universal forces of greed and corruption.
She’s right and wrong because she’s chasing the wrong target. Instead, she’s in pursuit of a larger consequence than she imagined. Because the story isn’t about oil. It’s about the literal underground and undersea war over who controls the pipelines, not for oil, but for data.
A hidden conflict between China and the United States over which country controls the means of moving data around the world, and which country has the upper hand in seeing, analyzing, and throttling all the secrets that their friends and enemies might be attempting to hide.
A conflict whose buried front lines come up for air – and connectivity – in Ghana.
Dani is trying to outrun her past by immersing herself in her old career and one country’s old and new problems. She gets herself caught in the crossfire between two superpowers, their desperate agents, and a plot to change the balance of power in a world that has not quite yet become the future.
But it will. One way or another. No matter which side Dani decides will let her run further and faster – from herself.
Escape Rating A: I picked this up in spite of the fact that thrillers are not my usual jam. I was intrigued because this is, on the one hand, the kind of thriller that isn’t done much anymore. Espionage used to be one of the genre’s backbones, back when the old Cold War was hot under the official ice of post-war peace.
On the other hand, it takes place somewhere that is not any of the usual suspects, and is wrapped up in issues that didn’t even exist during the Cold War. And yet, in another way it’s as old as the hills. After all, spying is commonly referred to as the world’s second-oldest profession. And sometimes the distance between it and the first is barely a hair’s breadth.
What made this story so fascinating isn’t actually Dani, although she’s the character we follow most consistently and with the most certainty. Which makes sense, because everyone else fits somewhere into the spy games between China and the U.S. while Dani is just herself. Even if she’s not quite certain who that self is anymore and whether she wants to reclaim her old self or invent a new one.
The part of the story that provides the thrills and the chills and the dangers and especially the twist at the end is the story that Dani inserts herself into – even if neither she nor the reader are aware of it at first.
At first, as Dani works out in the open – or at least thinks she does – in pursuit of her story, there’s another story going on. Dani has inserted herself into the midst of a spy game that has just gone terribly wrong. Or at least terribly ragged. Both China and the U.S. have agents in Ghana and have co-opted Ghanaian officials and ordinary citizens to work for them for inducements that are never likely to be fulfilled.
And of course there are double agents playing both sides in the hopes of coming out on top no matter who wins. If anyone ever does.
All of the players, including Dani herself although she would be loath to even see it, let alone admit it, are all working from the age-old playbook of colonization, colonialism and conflict, where the great powers always win and the pawns always get sacrificed.
Which is what keeps the reader invested from beginning to end. Because we already, sorta/kinda, in a big picture sense know how the big story is going to go – or at least keep on going because the players change, but the game of empires keeps right on rolling along. But that knowledge doesn’t stop the reader from hoping that one, or more, of the tempting silver fish swimming through this sea of misplaced loyalties and corrupted data have a chance to swim free.
Even if freedom is still just another word for having nothing left to lose.
Originally published at Reading Reality
She thinks she’s got the story of a lifetime by the tail – and she does. But the story she thinks she has is a story about Ghana selling its natural resources – particularly oil – to global powers both East and West, and the inevitable consequences that result from the influx of all that money combined with the universal forces of greed and corruption.
She’s right and wrong because she’s chasing the wrong target. Instead, she’s in pursuit of a larger consequence than she imagined. Because the story isn’t about oil. It’s about the literal underground and undersea war over who controls the pipelines, not for oil, but for data.
A hidden conflict between China and the United States over which country controls the means of moving data around the world, and which country has the upper hand in seeing, analyzing, and throttling all the secrets that their friends and enemies might be attempting to hide.
A conflict whose buried front lines come up for air – and connectivity – in Ghana.
Dani is trying to outrun her past by immersing herself in her old career and one country’s old and new problems. She gets herself caught in the crossfire between two superpowers, their desperate agents, and a plot to change the balance of power in a world that has not quite yet become the future.
But it will. One way or another. No matter which side Dani decides will let her run further and faster – from herself.
Escape Rating A: I picked this up in spite of the fact that thrillers are not my usual jam. I was intrigued because this is, on the one hand, the kind of thriller that isn’t done much anymore. Espionage used to be one of the genre’s backbones, back when the old Cold War was hot under the official ice of post-war peace.
On the other hand, it takes place somewhere that is not any of the usual suspects, and is wrapped up in issues that didn’t even exist during the Cold War. And yet, in another way it’s as old as the hills. After all, spying is commonly referred to as the world’s second-oldest profession. And sometimes the distance between it and the first is barely a hair’s breadth.
What made this story so fascinating isn’t actually Dani, although she’s the character we follow most consistently and with the most certainty. Which makes sense, because everyone else fits somewhere into the spy games between China and the U.S. while Dani is just herself. Even if she’s not quite certain who that self is anymore and whether she wants to reclaim her old self or invent a new one.
The part of the story that provides the thrills and the chills and the dangers and especially the twist at the end is the story that Dani inserts herself into – even if neither she nor the reader are aware of it at first.
At first, as Dani works out in the open – or at least thinks she does – in pursuit of her story, there’s another story going on. Dani has inserted herself into the midst of a spy game that has just gone terribly wrong. Or at least terribly ragged. Both China and the U.S. have agents in Ghana and have co-opted Ghanaian officials and ordinary citizens to work for them for inducements that are never likely to be fulfilled.
And of course there are double agents playing both sides in the hopes of coming out on top no matter who wins. If anyone ever does.
All of the players, including Dani herself although she would be loath to even see it, let alone admit it, are all working from the age-old playbook of colonization, colonialism and conflict, where the great powers always win and the pawns always get sacrificed.
Which is what keeps the reader invested from beginning to end. Because we already, sorta/kinda, in a big picture sense know how the big story is going to go – or at least keep on going because the players change, but the game of empires keeps right on rolling along. But that knowledge doesn’t stop the reader from hoping that one, or more, of the tempting silver fish swimming through this sea of misplaced loyalties and corrupted data have a chance to swim free.
Even if freedom is still just another word for having nothing left to lose.
Originally published at Reading Reality
April 29, 2026
Four thrillers, four spirals into chaos,and I was absolutely here for every single one!🔥
If your reading mood lately is “just one more chapter” at 2AM, this stack seriously delivers. I dove into these back-to-back and let me tell you sleep was not part of the plan.
Let’s start with Last One Out the atmosphere in this one? Perfect! The dying town of Carralon Ridge feels like a character itself, haunting and heavy with secrets. Ro’s grief and determination pulled me in instantly, and the slow unraveling of what happened to her son had me completely hooked. It’s eerie, emotional, and quietly intense in that way that sneaks up on you.
Then we have The Girl Upstairs, which cranked the creep factor ALL the way up. Old house? Check. Strange noises? Check. A buried secret that should’ve stayed hidden? Absolutely. Gwen’s background as a homicide detective made everything feel sharper and more urgent, and I loved how the tension just kept building until I was side-eyeing every creak and shadow.
Switching gears to The Silver Fish this one felt like stepping into a global conspiracy thriller. It’s fast-paced, layered, and packed with high-stakes intrigue. Dani’s investigation pulled me into a world I didn’t know much about, hello underwater cables 👀, and the political tension mixed with personal stakes made it impossible to put down. Definitely the most action-driven of the bunch.
And finally The Divorce because what’s a thriller lineup without a little domestic chaos turned completely unhinged? Naomi’s descent into obsession was wild to watch unfold. Just when I thought I knew where it was going nope. Twisted, addictive, and full of those jaw-drop moments McFadden does so well.
Together, these books gave me everything: eerie small-town secrets, haunted house vibes, international intrigue, and messy, dangerous obsession. Basically a thriller lover’s dream lineup.
✨️Thank you Poisoned Pen Press, Blackstone Publishing, Macmillan Audio, Harlequin Romance, Netgalley, and these wonderful authors for sharing these books with us!
💭Which do you love more slow-burning atmospheric mysteries or fast-paced, twisty thrill rides?
If your reading mood lately is “just one more chapter” at 2AM, this stack seriously delivers. I dove into these back-to-back and let me tell you sleep was not part of the plan.
Let’s start with Last One Out the atmosphere in this one? Perfect! The dying town of Carralon Ridge feels like a character itself, haunting and heavy with secrets. Ro’s grief and determination pulled me in instantly, and the slow unraveling of what happened to her son had me completely hooked. It’s eerie, emotional, and quietly intense in that way that sneaks up on you.
Then we have The Girl Upstairs, which cranked the creep factor ALL the way up. Old house? Check. Strange noises? Check. A buried secret that should’ve stayed hidden? Absolutely. Gwen’s background as a homicide detective made everything feel sharper and more urgent, and I loved how the tension just kept building until I was side-eyeing every creak and shadow.
Switching gears to The Silver Fish this one felt like stepping into a global conspiracy thriller. It’s fast-paced, layered, and packed with high-stakes intrigue. Dani’s investigation pulled me into a world I didn’t know much about, hello underwater cables 👀, and the political tension mixed with personal stakes made it impossible to put down. Definitely the most action-driven of the bunch.
And finally The Divorce because what’s a thriller lineup without a little domestic chaos turned completely unhinged? Naomi’s descent into obsession was wild to watch unfold. Just when I thought I knew where it was going nope. Twisted, addictive, and full of those jaw-drop moments McFadden does so well.
Together, these books gave me everything: eerie small-town secrets, haunted house vibes, international intrigue, and messy, dangerous obsession. Basically a thriller lover’s dream lineup.
✨️Thank you Poisoned Pen Press, Blackstone Publishing, Macmillan Audio, Harlequin Romance, Netgalley, and these wonderful authors for sharing these books with us!
💭Which do you love more slow-burning atmospheric mysteries or fast-paced, twisty thrill rides?
April 11, 2026
This is a well-written debut espionage thriller that takes the intrepid reporter Dani on a personal and professional journey to Ghana where secrets and lies are gradually exposed and danger lurks in the shadows. I enjoyed the twists and turns and the details involved in the quest for control of the fiber optics that carry information at lightning speed. Fast-paced and entertaining this novel is an intriguing glimpse into the world of international spies, double agents, and those fighting to expose their existence and motives. I listened to the audiobook and the narration is excellent and really pulled me into the story.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2026
Captivating spy thriller. The author weaves in deep understanding of geopolitics and technology to make for a very engaging read
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Where to Watch: available April 7, 2026, pre-order your copy here: https://amzn.to/4bAsr2N
RAVING REVIEW: THE SILVER FISH opens with an act of violence that immediately reframes the kind of story it wants to tell. A mission goes wrong, not because of bad planning, but because of something more human and less manageable. That moment sets the tone for everything that follows. This isn’t a perfected, procedural take on espionage. It’s chaotic, personal, and constantly shaped by people making decisions they can’t take back.
From there, the book splits its focus between Dani Moreau, a journalist trying to rebuild a real sense of purpose, and a network of intelligence members caught in a growing conflict between global powers. That structure could easily become overwhelming, but author Connor Martin keeps it grounded by anchoring everything in their world. You’re not just watching events; you’re sitting inside the consequences.
Dani is the entry point, and she’s written with detail to feel like more than just a plot device. She’s not introduced as someone in control. If anything, she’s slightly off balance from the start, second-guessing herself, unsure whether she still has the instincts that once defined her. That uncertainty becomes part of the way the story handles tension. Every conversation, every decision carries something more because she’s trying to prove something to herself as much as she is chasing a story.
One of the most intriguing aspects is how the book treats journalism as both a craft and a vulnerability. Dani isn’t just collecting information; she’s examining people, power structures, and her own limitations. There’s a sense that the story she’s chasing is bigger than she is, and that imbalance creates a constant undercurrent of risk. On the espionage side, the novel leans heavily into the mechanics of intelligence without losing clarity. The sections on the Double are among the strongest in the book. His perspective adds a layer of morality and tension that goes beyond typical spy fiction. He isn’t operating from ideology or loyalty. He’s trying to survive, to move in a system that doesn’t care about him.
The book’s conflict over fiber-optic cables and data control is where Martin’s background becomes such an advantage. This isn’t treated as vague tech jargon. It’s explained just enough to understand why it matters without slowing the story down. The idea that global power can hinge on something as inconspicuous as data infrastructure gives the narrative an edge that feels relevant without being heavy-handed. There’s also a strong sense of place throughout the novel. Ghana isn’t just a backdrop; it shapes how the story develops. The markets, the streets, and the shifting dynamics between local and foreign influence all contribute to the tension. The environment feels like something more, which makes the stakes feel more validated. You understand what’s being affected, not just in abstract terms but in the day-to-day lives of the people involved.
There are moments when the story dips, particularly when it leans too heavily on exploration and tries to explain everything. The detail is valuable, but there are stretches where it slows the momentum just enough to be noticeable. A tighter balance between exposition and forward movement would have strengthened the overall flow. There’s also a tendency for certain interactions to feel a bit too on-the-nose in terms of theme. When characters discuss the implications of what’s happening, it occasionally edges into something that feels more like commentary than conversation. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it pulls you out of what the book, otherwise, maintains.
For a debut, this is an impressively controlled piece of writing. The structure holds together well, the characters feel distinct, and the stakes continue to build without collapsing under their own. It’s clear that Martin understands both the world he’s writing about and the genre he’s stepping into. What stands out most is the sense of confidence. This doesn’t read like a cautious first attempt. It reads like someone who knows the space and the systems, and is willing to let the story unfold within that world. The result is a thriller that feels informed without being inaccessible.
The focus shifts more toward consequence than resolution. The story doesn’t try to wrap everything up. Instead, it emphasizes the impact of choices, both on a global and a personal scale. That approach leaves a stronger impression than a more traditional ending might have.
THE SILVER FISH works because it treats its subject matter seriously without losing sight of the people at the center of it. It understands that behind every system, every piece of technology, every geopolitical move, there are individuals making decisions they have to live with. For a first novel, it sets a high bar. It shows a clear voice, a strong grasp of structure, and a willingness to engage with complicated material without oversimplifying it. If this is where Martin is starting, there’s real potential for where he can go next.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.
RAVING REVIEW: THE SILVER FISH opens with an act of violence that immediately reframes the kind of story it wants to tell. A mission goes wrong, not because of bad planning, but because of something more human and less manageable. That moment sets the tone for everything that follows. This isn’t a perfected, procedural take on espionage. It’s chaotic, personal, and constantly shaped by people making decisions they can’t take back.
From there, the book splits its focus between Dani Moreau, a journalist trying to rebuild a real sense of purpose, and a network of intelligence members caught in a growing conflict between global powers. That structure could easily become overwhelming, but author Connor Martin keeps it grounded by anchoring everything in their world. You’re not just watching events; you’re sitting inside the consequences.
Dani is the entry point, and she’s written with detail to feel like more than just a plot device. She’s not introduced as someone in control. If anything, she’s slightly off balance from the start, second-guessing herself, unsure whether she still has the instincts that once defined her. That uncertainty becomes part of the way the story handles tension. Every conversation, every decision carries something more because she’s trying to prove something to herself as much as she is chasing a story.
One of the most intriguing aspects is how the book treats journalism as both a craft and a vulnerability. Dani isn’t just collecting information; she’s examining people, power structures, and her own limitations. There’s a sense that the story she’s chasing is bigger than she is, and that imbalance creates a constant undercurrent of risk. On the espionage side, the novel leans heavily into the mechanics of intelligence without losing clarity. The sections on the Double are among the strongest in the book. His perspective adds a layer of morality and tension that goes beyond typical spy fiction. He isn’t operating from ideology or loyalty. He’s trying to survive, to move in a system that doesn’t care about him.
The book’s conflict over fiber-optic cables and data control is where Martin’s background becomes such an advantage. This isn’t treated as vague tech jargon. It’s explained just enough to understand why it matters without slowing the story down. The idea that global power can hinge on something as inconspicuous as data infrastructure gives the narrative an edge that feels relevant without being heavy-handed. There’s also a strong sense of place throughout the novel. Ghana isn’t just a backdrop; it shapes how the story develops. The markets, the streets, and the shifting dynamics between local and foreign influence all contribute to the tension. The environment feels like something more, which makes the stakes feel more validated. You understand what’s being affected, not just in abstract terms but in the day-to-day lives of the people involved.
There are moments when the story dips, particularly when it leans too heavily on exploration and tries to explain everything. The detail is valuable, but there are stretches where it slows the momentum just enough to be noticeable. A tighter balance between exposition and forward movement would have strengthened the overall flow. There’s also a tendency for certain interactions to feel a bit too on-the-nose in terms of theme. When characters discuss the implications of what’s happening, it occasionally edges into something that feels more like commentary than conversation. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it pulls you out of what the book, otherwise, maintains.
For a debut, this is an impressively controlled piece of writing. The structure holds together well, the characters feel distinct, and the stakes continue to build without collapsing under their own. It’s clear that Martin understands both the world he’s writing about and the genre he’s stepping into. What stands out most is the sense of confidence. This doesn’t read like a cautious first attempt. It reads like someone who knows the space and the systems, and is willing to let the story unfold within that world. The result is a thriller that feels informed without being inaccessible.
The focus shifts more toward consequence than resolution. The story doesn’t try to wrap everything up. Instead, it emphasizes the impact of choices, both on a global and a personal scale. That approach leaves a stronger impression than a more traditional ending might have.
THE SILVER FISH works because it treats its subject matter seriously without losing sight of the people at the center of it. It understands that behind every system, every piece of technology, every geopolitical move, there are individuals making decisions they have to live with. For a first novel, it sets a high bar. It shows a clear voice, a strong grasp of structure, and a willingness to engage with complicated material without oversimplifying it. If this is where Martin is starting, there’s real potential for where he can go next.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.
March 9, 2026
So excited to read this book when it drops in April!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A journalist's quest for a scoop gets tangled up in a spy operation
Dani Moreau, an American journalist from a privileged background reeling from personal tragedy, is trying to get back into the game as a freelance writer. She has been led to believe that there is a major story in the African country of Ghana concerning government corruption in the gas industry, but has been getting nowhere in her search for a hook. Then she meets James, the son of a powerful local politician, and discovers that her information was only partially correct; yes, there is government corruption, but it is the business of fiber optic cables that needs to be probed. China and the US are in a silent war over who will control the undersea cables off the African shore which are the conduit of the world's information, with operatives running agents and double agents as they try to influence, buy or otherwise control those in Ghana who can deliver the results they desire. Can Dani get to the truth and reestablish her career, or are the forces she must confront too powerful to be called to account?
The Silver Fish is a timely espionage thriller featuring a journalist trying to regain her mojo as she wrestles with self-doubt and turns a little too often to the bottle. The story starts off with a bang with a brutal assassination that doesn't go according to plan and a source for the Chinese being turned into a double agent. Author Connor Martin's background in US national security makes for authentic-feeling details, and he does a solid job of bringing to life the setting. The premise is intriguing, and although I wasn't terribly impressed with the character of Dani (a bit formulaic) I found the depiction of the struggles between world powers for dominance in Africa to be riveting. A solid 4 ⭐️ debut, good for readers of more literary espionage fiction including fans of Olen Steinhauer, Paul Vidich and Alan Furst. My thanks to NetGalley and Penzler Publishing/Mysterious Press for allowing me access to the novel in exchange for my honest review.
Dani Moreau, an American journalist from a privileged background reeling from personal tragedy, is trying to get back into the game as a freelance writer. She has been led to believe that there is a major story in the African country of Ghana concerning government corruption in the gas industry, but has been getting nowhere in her search for a hook. Then she meets James, the son of a powerful local politician, and discovers that her information was only partially correct; yes, there is government corruption, but it is the business of fiber optic cables that needs to be probed. China and the US are in a silent war over who will control the undersea cables off the African shore which are the conduit of the world's information, with operatives running agents and double agents as they try to influence, buy or otherwise control those in Ghana who can deliver the results they desire. Can Dani get to the truth and reestablish her career, or are the forces she must confront too powerful to be called to account?
The Silver Fish is a timely espionage thriller featuring a journalist trying to regain her mojo as she wrestles with self-doubt and turns a little too often to the bottle. The story starts off with a bang with a brutal assassination that doesn't go according to plan and a source for the Chinese being turned into a double agent. Author Connor Martin's background in US national security makes for authentic-feeling details, and he does a solid job of bringing to life the setting. The premise is intriguing, and although I wasn't terribly impressed with the character of Dani (a bit formulaic) I found the depiction of the struggles between world powers for dominance in Africa to be riveting. A solid 4 ⭐️ debut, good for readers of more literary espionage fiction including fans of Olen Steinhauer, Paul Vidich and Alan Furst. My thanks to NetGalley and Penzler Publishing/Mysterious Press for allowing me access to the novel in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Connor Martin, the Author of " The Silver Fish" has written an exhilarating, intense, and powerful thriller. The Genres for this novel are: Suspense, Espionage Thriller, Political Thriller, TechnoThrillers, Mystery, Adventure, and Fiction. The title of this book "The Silver Fish" is the perfect name for this book. This paragraph describes the title, " They will not hurt you. You are the silver fish. Too pretty for the shark to eat. He only wants to watch you swim. And while the shark is busy watching, distracted by your beauty, we will catch him in our nets." P.220 (The Silver Fish)
The author has written a complex, complicated techno-thriller, and espionage book filled with adventure, betrayals, deadly secrets, lies, danger, and murder. There are twists and turns, surprises, and there is the feel of a cat and mouse game, or chess, where the winning is about life or death. The story takes place mostly in Ghana, and the author vividly describes, the scenery, the landscape, the plots, and the dramatic and dark characters. The female protagonist, Danielle "Dani" Moureau, is recovering from personal trauma, and is a journalist, who wants to write an important story about the corruption of the oil industry in Ghana. Dani realizes that sometimes "when you go looking for a story, when the real story appears, it is never the one you expected." The same can be said about the characters, not everyone is who he/she says they are. Dani does meet several important characters, and realizes that there is seven million dollars missing, and that this new story involves several governments and agents. It is much bigger than the original story, enough to get her killed. There are double agents, and operatives obsessed on completing their assignment. The author takes us on an adventurous and thrilling journey to a shocking conclusion. I hope that the author does write another book in this series. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.
The author has written a complex, complicated techno-thriller, and espionage book filled with adventure, betrayals, deadly secrets, lies, danger, and murder. There are twists and turns, surprises, and there is the feel of a cat and mouse game, or chess, where the winning is about life or death. The story takes place mostly in Ghana, and the author vividly describes, the scenery, the landscape, the plots, and the dramatic and dark characters. The female protagonist, Danielle "Dani" Moureau, is recovering from personal trauma, and is a journalist, who wants to write an important story about the corruption of the oil industry in Ghana. Dani realizes that sometimes "when you go looking for a story, when the real story appears, it is never the one you expected." The same can be said about the characters, not everyone is who he/she says they are. Dani does meet several important characters, and realizes that there is seven million dollars missing, and that this new story involves several governments and agents. It is much bigger than the original story, enough to get her killed. There are double agents, and operatives obsessed on completing their assignment. The author takes us on an adventurous and thrilling journey to a shocking conclusion. I hope that the author does write another book in this series. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.
April 30, 2026
Dani Moreau heads to Ghana to chase a story about oil corruption and the Chinese having their hand in it all. Heeding the advice of a now passed friend, she asks and talks to people whether it seems to be conclusive to her case or not. Laurie's advice has never steered her wrong and she has found the son of a man she is looking for. As she works to befriend James, she calls in a favor from her ex-husband and cannot believe the information he was able to obtain and was willing to pass onto her. Realizing that what she is searching for is so much more than oil, but it's the understanding of the money trail and what the internet really is, all it's data and who it is benefiting the most and why? Dani finds herself in the middle of something bigger than she could have imaged and as she starts realize the danger she has put herself in, she also has sent information back to her ex in hopes he will follow her instructions, the world needs to know what is going on and if she is no longer here, someone needs to get it into the right hands to be exposed. Playing cat and mouse, the story unravels who is really working for who, why and the promises they were made for completing their mission. Some play their cards better than others and Dani has quickly learned how she needs to play hers even if it will cost her life in the end. I really enjoyed this espionage novel and felt it really could be something playing out in the world! Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invites. I will be curious to see if there will be second novel to come with how this one ended. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
May 7, 2026
It’s been a hot minute since I read such a deftly crafted and exciting spy thriller.
I was impressed that this was a debut novel, with not only the caliber of writing but also Martin’s ability to weave in facets of journalism, geopolitics, double agents, and technology without missing a beat or losing me in his wake.
There is a lot going on as female journalist Dani Moreau heads to Ghana, believing she is there to get the scoop on corruption in the oil industry in Africa. She ends up ensnared in a much more dangerous game of tug-of-war between the USA and China over fiber-optic cables.
The stakes are high, and lives are expendable as these countries fight for control over fiber-optic cables. Tension and twists abound as you never know where the players' loyalties lie, what they will do next, or who they really are. This one will keep you on the edge of your seat.
🎧 I paired the audiobook with the book, and Hannah Cabell’s narration was excellent. She made me feel like I was by Dani's side on her international quest to discover the truth. It was heartpounding and captivating, a great listening experience.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @tandemliterary @mysteriouspress
and @connor.martin.author for this gifted book. Thank you @highbridgeaudio for the gifted audiobook.
I was impressed that this was a debut novel, with not only the caliber of writing but also Martin’s ability to weave in facets of journalism, geopolitics, double agents, and technology without missing a beat or losing me in his wake.
There is a lot going on as female journalist Dani Moreau heads to Ghana, believing she is there to get the scoop on corruption in the oil industry in Africa. She ends up ensnared in a much more dangerous game of tug-of-war between the USA and China over fiber-optic cables.
The stakes are high, and lives are expendable as these countries fight for control over fiber-optic cables. Tension and twists abound as you never know where the players' loyalties lie, what they will do next, or who they really are. This one will keep you on the edge of your seat.
🎧 I paired the audiobook with the book, and Hannah Cabell’s narration was excellent. She made me feel like I was by Dani's side on her international quest to discover the truth. It was heartpounding and captivating, a great listening experience.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @tandemliterary @mysteriouspress
and @connor.martin.author for this gifted book. Thank you @highbridgeaudio for the gifted audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What started out as a slow burn soon turned into a captivating spy thriller with the biggest surprise saved for the ending. The writing style is very accessible with vivid descriptions of time and place. The primary characters are fleshed out nicely and their motivations and actions are believable. I enjoyed the original plot of who controls the underwater fiber optic cables and what it means on the world stage. The story takes many twists and turns with betrayals, double crossings and intrigue as it races to its unexpected conclusion. If you enjoy eye-opening thrillers that put you in the middle of the action and then leave you wanting more as you read the final pages, this one's for you.
Thank you to the author, Mysterious Press , Penzler Publishers and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
Thank you to the author, Mysterious Press , Penzler Publishers and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Silver Fish by Connor Martin is a solid, engaging spy thriller with a unique and timely angle. The focus on underwater fiber optic cables and global power struggles makes it stand out.
The first half is a bit slow, but the book really picks up as the story progresses. One of the highlights is the insight into Ghana’s geopolitical position—it’s refreshing to see an African nation featured in a story that goes beyond just surface-level politics.
The characters are well developed, and while the pacing has a few uneven moments, the twists keep it engaging throughout. The narration does a great job creating the right tension and bringing out the different characters, making it an enjoyable listen overall.
Overall: 4/5
Thank you NetGalley and HighBridge Audio for the ARC.
The first half is a bit slow, but the book really picks up as the story progresses. One of the highlights is the insight into Ghana’s geopolitical position—it’s refreshing to see an African nation featured in a story that goes beyond just surface-level politics.
The characters are well developed, and while the pacing has a few uneven moments, the twists keep it engaging throughout. The narration does a great job creating the right tension and bringing out the different characters, making it an enjoyable listen overall.
Overall: 4/5
Thank you NetGalley and HighBridge Audio for the ARC.
April 7, 2026
The Silver Fish by Connor Martin is an exciting book that I really enjoyed.
From the opening pages, I was hooked on this espionage thriller.
I am always so interested when I will figure out when I figure out the title, sometimes its obvious, once it was the last line of a book.
This book described the title perfectly: "They will not hurt you. You are the silver fish. Too pretty for the shark to eat. He only wants to watch you swim." Beautiful writing.
This thrilling story takes place in Ghana, which was beautifully described.
Dani is a fantastic female protagonist.
She is a recovering journalist who wants to report on the oil business in Ghana.
This book is thrilling filled with action, and twists and turns.
Highly recommend this fast-paced spy thriller.
From the opening pages, I was hooked on this espionage thriller.
I am always so interested when I will figure out when I figure out the title, sometimes its obvious, once it was the last line of a book.
This book described the title perfectly: "They will not hurt you. You are the silver fish. Too pretty for the shark to eat. He only wants to watch you swim." Beautiful writing.
This thrilling story takes place in Ghana, which was beautifully described.
Dani is a fantastic female protagonist.
She is a recovering journalist who wants to report on the oil business in Ghana.
This book is thrilling filled with action, and twists and turns.
Highly recommend this fast-paced spy thriller.
May 6, 2026
“Information is power”. Ghana is the setting and the super powers of China and America are fighting over a fiber optic cable and telecommunication routes.
This debut spy book is full of complexities and action. It’s told in three points of view: Billy, an American assassin; the double, a double agent, and Dani, a freelance reporter whose search for a missing 7 million dollars takes her on a dangerous path.
The book does a good job of creating the backstories for each of these characters, explaining exactly why each person is part of what is happening, and sustaining a high level of tension throughout the read.
The setting of Ghana was very interesting. I don’t think I’ve read a book set there.
This debut spy book is full of complexities and action. It’s told in three points of view: Billy, an American assassin; the double, a double agent, and Dani, a freelance reporter whose search for a missing 7 million dollars takes her on a dangerous path.
The book does a good job of creating the backstories for each of these characters, explaining exactly why each person is part of what is happening, and sustaining a high level of tension throughout the read.
The setting of Ghana was very interesting. I don’t think I’ve read a book set there.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It did take me a little bit to get into this book, but once It picked up, I couldn't put it down. An engaging spy thriller that has some unexpected twists, and characters with depth. I thought the setting of Ghana was interesting because I haven't read many books set there, and this digs into the politics of that area and I wasn't really familiar with that. Definitely a worthwhile read.
Thank you to the publisher, author, netgalley, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher, author, netgalley, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
April 19, 2026
Set in Ghana, Dani, an American journalist is looking for a story. She’s also looking to escape her past. Her personal and professional pasts shape who she is and she makes many references to things she would have done easier in the past.
A dangerous place to uncover a story, Dani navigates the politics after a few missteps. Another influential character is the US/China double agent. This spy thriller is perfect for anyone who enjoys action combined with character flaws.
A dangerous place to uncover a story, Dani navigates the politics after a few missteps. Another influential character is the US/China double agent. This spy thriller is perfect for anyone who enjoys action combined with character flaws.
April 27, 2026
I loved this book way more than I expected I'd love it, and it comes down to well-written characters. Dani, our main character, is flawed and doesn't always make the right choices as a journalist. She's human and I like that about her.
The secondary characters are also well-written and have such depth that it's hard to figure out their motives, which makes the many twists even more exciting. Recommended!
The secondary characters are also well-written and have such depth that it's hard to figure out their motives, which makes the many twists even more exciting. Recommended!
May 11, 2026
I don’t read a lot of espionage thrillers but I enjoyed this one. I liked how the reader got to see different sides to what was happening but also kept just enough in the dark that it kept you guessing. It was thought provoking and had a lot of action throughout. I enjoyed getting to know Dani and even though I thought she might have gotten a little too emotionally involved with the people around her I think it also highlighted the strengths of her being a journalist. She wanted the story but was unwilling to harm people to do it. I really liked how fast paced the end but also didn’t feel rushed and everything came together. It was a well written debut.
Thank you @connor.martin.author @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @connor.martin.author @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
April 15, 2026
This was an extremely fast paced/action-filled book that somehow still went deep on many characters. I rarely read this genre (spy novel) but I thought it was written for a broader audience than usual and had a lot of unique components (Ghana, female characters, modern technology, China). Really enjoyed!
April 23, 2026
Buckle up and get ready for a wild and exciting ride.
From the first chapter until the last, you’ll be on the edge of your seat, there’s not a dull moment in this.
It’s twisty, fast-paced, and constantly keeps you guessing. My mind was running through every possible scenario and theory
Espionage, international stakes, spies… this had everything to keep me hooked. A fantastic debut.
From the first chapter until the last, you’ll be on the edge of your seat, there’s not a dull moment in this.
It’s twisty, fast-paced, and constantly keeps you guessing. My mind was running through every possible scenario and theory
Espionage, international stakes, spies… this had everything to keep me hooked. A fantastic debut.
April 17, 2026
This spy thriller set in Ghana pulls you in from the very first page and absolutely delivers, immersing you in a far away location with carefully thought out characters and twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end of the novel. I would highly recommend it to anyone and have already shared it with a friend of mine. If you are looking for a new book, look no further and pick this one up!
April 19, 2026
SIX WORD REVIEW: Riveting tale of fiber optic control.
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