The Adversary

by Brian Andrews, Jeffrey Wilson

From New York Times bestselling authors Andrews & Wilson, The Adversary is the next heart-stopping installment in the Tier One series.

For John Dempsey, it’s a time of uncertainty.

As a new administration tries to piece together who was behind the assassination of an American president, task force Ember is a team without a target. Newly Minted POTUS, Kelso Jarvis, is haunted by strange dreams of a house on fire, and Dempsey’s son Jake—who has begun his own journey as a SEAL—can’t escape the ghost of the father he believes to be dead.

But when a routine intelligence gathering mission in Taiwan goes horribly wrong and one of Ember’s own is captured, Dempsey’s frustration only grows. As Ember races to rescue their teammate before it’s too late, three of America’s strongest warriors—Dempsey, Jarvis, and Jake—must ask themselves if tomorrow’s adversary resides across the Taiwan Strait, or within themselves.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Suspense, Military Thriller, Audiobook, Action

424 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 4, 2025

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

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book yet! Wish I could give it more than 5 stars.

I honestly am not sure if I can appropriately describe my feelings for this book. Obviously since we are on book 9, there has been a pretty well-established foundation with characters that we have come to really know, love and admire. There has been so much...everything. Trauma, loss, betrayal, injury yet through it all these characters have somehow become a family.

I think to me, that was why this book really hit home with the two main storylines - the kidnapping of Richard Wang, and the crazy reunion (if you could even call it that) of two specific characters that were never supposed to meet.

What makes this an outstanding series is not that it is a military spec ops thriller - though it is a great one - but there are tons of those. It is that we have followed one specific character through SO MUCH and have followed along as he was forced to give up one life and start a new one.

There are several great thrillers in this genre that have an outstanding main character - Mitch Rapp, Court Gentry, Scot Harvath, and Pike Logan are a few that come to mind. But this series REALLY focuses on the whole team aspect, the brotherhood, and that is something that this book especially really drills home. We BELIEVED that this team was going to do whatever possible to rescue their brother, even if it meant impossible odds.

The other storyline broke my heart. Without going into spoilers, let me just say that as much as I was secretly hoping that these two characters would somehow come together, I guess I never really thought through the ramifications. The sad thing was that I do understand the anger and feelings of betrayal, but I also understand the reasons behind everything. It doesn't make it right, but it completely broke my heart. I wanted to wrap up these characters and tell them everything would be okay.....but it wouldn't, would it?

So yes. This writing duo has continually impressed me and is only getting better.

Again, if I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.

[Abibliofob · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Tier One is back with John Dempsey at the helm in The Adversary. Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson has outdone themself when it comes to writing a complicated story. So many twists, so many turns. It sure is a fast paced thrilling ride with some great gear and action involved. On November 4th you can all get a copy of this book and enjoy what I just read. This dynamic duo of authors has maybe written one of their best books yet and I can really recommend it. I must of course thank Blackstone Publishing and Netgalley for letting me read this advanc copy.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the chance to read an advanced copy of The Adversary thanks to NetGalley and this one is a MUST READ ASAFP! This latest Tier One installment is nonstop action with great pacing and strong character moments. The developments in this one for all the characters really bring it home and keep you wanting to read more. More from Jarvis, Petra, Dempsey, Wang, and Jake is an awesome read. Andrews and Wilson know how to keep the tension high while still building on the relationships and stakes that make this series so good. A thrilling read that kept me hooked from beginning to end!

#TheAdversary #NetGalley

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

The pair that I refer to as the dynamic duo dug deep in their history and expertise to craft this story. A masterclass in action, intrigue and adventure.

Ember is in Taiwan for a meeting with a former Taiwanese general. The op fails as someone murders the general and grabs one of the team.

The majority of the book is the actions they take to recover their teammate.

[Brian Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrews and Wilson did it again! The Adversary is a multifaceted, non-stop thrill ride that also focuses on the family struggles faced by military dependents. I found myself instantly drawn into the storyline, being a Navy Veteran. I didn't need to use the glossary in the back of the book for military acronyms, but it is there if you do. Jake follows in his father's footsteps, becoming a Navy SEAL. The action picks up as the plot thickens. The authors are brilliant at keeping their readers engaged. I wrote on a thriller Twitter page that I was looking for book recommendations for my trip to New Zealand. Jeffrey Wilson wrote back to me, asking when my trip was, and sent a personalized, signed ARC of The Adversary the same day. It arrived in time for my 17-hour flight to New Zealand and kept me engaged throughout the flight. I will be a fan of both of these guys for life after that.

[Steven Netter · Rating 5 out of 5]

READ MY FULL REVIEW AT Best Thriller Books

The Adversary might be Andrews & Wilson’s best book to date, which isn’t something I say lightly given how many ridiculously good novels they’ve published. But it’s true and, furthermore, this latest installment is without a doubt my favorite in the Tier One series. It’s incredible and a strong contender for thriller of the year due to insane action sequences, psychological mindf**kery, and a ton of raw emotion within a brilliantly crafted story that vociferously screams “team and mission above self.” A message we all benefit from hearing again.

Do not miss The Adversary. It’s one hell of a story that’s a must read for anyone calling themselves a thriller fan. A heart-thumping, emotionally stirring and exhilarating tale that is so completely engrossing that everything around you will fade into the background. One of the best books you’ll read this year.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like I've said before...You can't not love the writing by Andrews & Wilson. The Adversary is a fantastic military thriller, with action and drama.
This book could be read as a standalone, but then you'd want to go back and start from the beginning.
Dempsey and the Ember team are off to Taiwan to meet a Taiwanese intelligence officer, when all hell breaks loose. Great plot development, amazing cast of characters, and a lot of bullets flying. Now they have to rescue a fellow teammate and it's not going to a walk in the park.
The Ember series and the Tier One series are both top notch military thrillers that will make you want to finish the book in a day. I highly
reccomend both series. Thanks to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of this fantastic novel, Hooyah!!
The novel will be available on Nov. 4, 2025.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a supposedly simple mission goes horribly wrong and a teammate is taken, Dempsey and Ember are in a race against the clock. Meanwhile Jake Kemper gets his trident and is assigned to a SEAL team.

This story is told from multiple points of view and is filled with nonstop action. Dempsey is a complicated man who puts team and mission before self, no matter who it hurts. The supporting cast, including Mann, Baldwin, and Jarvis, gives the story depth and perspective.

I love this series, and this addition to it is outstanding. I loved it and would recommend it to lovers of military action thrillers.

Not family friendly due to profanity and violence.

Thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Arthur Marston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avid fan

Love the characters. Reading every book, you get to know them and understand why they are so close. Always a good story.
Keeps you on the edge of your seat, I'm anxious to find out what is going to happen
but reluctant to read too much because I'll get to the end of the book and have the wait for the next adventure.

[Kerry Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

as a die hard hard Andrews & Wilson fan this book is incredible!! i seriously couldn't put it sown6

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Tier One story and certainly won't be my last. By all accounts Tier One are the best of the best tasked with the most sensitive and dangerous overseas assignments. John Dempsey is their leader. Revered by his teammates for his leadership, courage and fighting abilities, Dempsey also has an alter-ego. Jack Kemper died years ago on a mission leaving a wife and small son behind.

Only to come back to life as John Dempsey to save his team. I'm guessing one of the previous 8 stories covers this is more detail as it would be good to better understand it.

Jack Kemper's son grew up. To become a Navy SEAL. Little did he know that one day he would complete a mission with his father. His very first mission. This story reveals what happens when the two meet.

This is fast paced even though there's a lot of weapons and military-tech talk. I enjoyed the three POVs through the story: Dempsey's, his son (Jake Kemper) and the President, Kelso Jarvis, a retired Tier One leader who knows Dempsey and his alter-ego well.

If you enjoy a military thriller with lots of close up action, thrills and spills, never sure of how many of the good guys will survive the mission, this is the story for you. I'm certainly going to attempt to catch up on the previous books in the series.

I'm fortunate to have received an early ebook version from the publisher via NetGalley. This has had no influence on my review.

[Christopher Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

July can’t come soon enough

All series go through their ebs and flows. Do be ten some books in, through multiple series in the same universe, and it hit a peak after all this time, is incredible. This book was flat out awesome.

[Allen Kuhns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

This is a really Outstanding Book in the Tier One Series of Books, but you should really start with Book # 1. I cannot not wait for the next book Insurgent to come out

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson have quickly become my favorite thriller writers. It all started with the Tier One series for me and this latest addition to the series is just as good. Can't wait to see what happens in the future books in the series.

The Adversary follows Team Ember in Taiwan with a meeting that goes bad from the start and the action just ramps up from that point; we also get to see Dempsey's son, Jake, continue on his SEAL team progression and how their paths cross in an important operation and the emotions that come from that meeting. Overall, don't miss this book and series.

Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy.

[Aida Flick · Rating 5 out of 5]

outstanding! must read

Absolutely brilliant. The perfect mix of action, character interaction/development, and the very hard realities of the tough choices warriors face. Good like putting this one down. Can’t wait for the next episode.

[Joy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m exhausted, this book left me reeling and wildly entertained. It had everything and IYKYK! These characters were always going to crash into each other and even knowing that, I just wasn’t ready. The characters weren’t ready either, so yeah, I will see everyone in group therapy!

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another outstanding addition to the Tier One series, with plenty of surprises along the way. These guys can't write these books fast enough in my opinion! 😆
This one kind of felt like a goodbye though, whether it was intentional or not. I'd be disappointed, but not surprised if that turns out to be the case.

[Tad Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome book, plot, story; engaging throughout the entire book. I’ve never served, but well written counterterrorist stories are one of my favorite genres & the attention to detail whether it’s the mission or weapons used enhances the story. All the the tier one books have been thrilling reads. Andrews & Wilson hit out of the park again. Keep ‘em coming.

[Nicole Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yeah, this one had my heart pounding like crazy for so many different reasons and aspects.
I always go back and re-listen to the series from book 1 whenever a new book comes out - and I have to say that this action series is so "character" driven that the action is secondary to me.
I am so enthralled in the PEOPLE in this series - their life choices, their struggles, their drive... it just makes this series so special.
These two authors have created and maintained a series that is so much more than an action series - It is so intelligently written with such passion and wit - amazing!
I have laughed and cried with each and every character in this series and this book is certainly no exception. 5 stars all around and back again!

[Sabastian Burlison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed

I didn't know what to expect from this novel after the events of the previous one. But this was a fantastic conclusion to that arc of the story. Now I'm eagerly awaiting the next novel in this series and the next Sons of Valor novel.

The action was great and the various storylines hit all the marks. Especially the one involving Dempsey and his son who's now a Navy Seal. That reunion was something I eagerly wanted to see and was built up over these last few novels.

This sorry was also action packed. Filled with the usual blend of tradecraft, explosions, and gunfights. 10/10

[Sue Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond Great!

In my younger years I was a Marine “brat” and loved the life and commradiery of military life. These novels are great reads and informative. Thanks to you both for your service and sharing.
Sue Ann Bearden

[Keiger L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another solid book!

I have always appreciated this series and I was not disappointed. I have enjoyed every book, and look forward to the next book in the series.

[Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tier One fans get ready...it's about to go down. An explosive start(literally and figuratively) leads to...no spoilers here....

[Jenni Pittman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldnt' put this book down. Loved every minute of it and looking forward to the next one

[Brittney · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Another great thriller with great characters.

[Christina Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this series from the beginning, but this one really knocks it out of the park. Fast paced, tons of action, a great storyline, and a build up to a possible reunion we have all been waiting for! Thank you to NetGalley and Black Stone Publishing for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Clayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you once again to Andrews and Wilson, Blackstone Publishing, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. This series and any of their novels are must reads, and this installment is another top notch tale.

One of Ember's own is taken during a mission and they have to find him and rescue him before he's gone for good. Dempsey and team are focused on this task while Pres. Jarvis has his own executive issues to deal with. We also have a story arc of Jake Kemper making it through SEAL training and to his own team where he finds himself shocked to his core when paths intertwine.

The characters, the writing, the action are all what keep me wanting more from Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson. I was sad to hear they are fine with the Chance Universe but excited for what they have next.

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by thanking NetGalley for granting access to this book. As Andrews/Wilson has never disappointed, I wanted read this book, not knowing that it is part of the Tier One series (#9), which is on my list, but I have not started yet, so I did not have the back stories of any of the characters or of the units in this story. That said,incredible story, right up there with the techno novel masters. I had recently read Act of Defiance, which took place in a similar setting and had a similar plot. That not withstanding, reading The Adversary, convinced me to move Tier One up on my list of to read. While I don't like giving up plots (I leave that to the publishers), I will tell you that secret US special forces goes to China to rescue on of their own that was kidnapped by the Chinese. beyond that, all I can say is Hooyah!.

[Tim Getwellsoonjaymee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

Andrews and Wilson have another out-of-the-park home run here. I have greatly enjoyed all their series but Tier One was the one I found first. It has a special place for me.
This episode was fun, tense, action packed and thrilling. I really enjoy the breadth of characters and character development the books bring. In this one I appreciated how they bring together all the elements: tactics, operations, Intel, geo-political, and the opposition. It makes for a very well rounded story. Other series have their niches but few bring the depth and join the elements of the IC and SF and politics together that Andrews and Wilson do.
Really looking forward to whatever comes next but this one was very thrilling and satisfying.

[Anthony Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Adversary is Tier One firing on all cylinders.
Non-stop, authentic action from page one (Taiwan sequence is insane), but the real win is the supporting cast finally getting their due. Baldwin, Wang, Grimes, and Munn all shine. Most importantly, Jake Dempsey arrives as a freshly minted SEAL carrying his dad’s legacy and a truckload of unresolved baggage. The father-son tension is perfectly pitched, and it’s obvious Andrews & Wilson are teeing up Jake as the future of the series.
Best book since the early ones. If you drifted away, come back. This one slaps. 2025 thriller of the year contender. Can’t wait for #10 to break me.