The System: A Novel of the Deep State

by Barry Eisler

A riveting exposé of the inner workings of American power—as gripping as House of Cards and as fraught with personal dynamics as The Diplomat .

Valeria Velez has just pulled off a stunning upset in California's 27th District, ousting ten-term corporatist incumbent Fillian Dunne from his seat in Congress. Young, beautiful, and idealistic, Valeria and her boyfriend/campaign manager Preston Jante are determined to use Valeria's new position to "stop stuffing the maw of the military machine" and return power to the people. But when fugitive hacker Lance Thaddeus uncovers a top-secret Pentagon program combining artificial intelligence with nuclear command-and-control, Valeria might have to choose between her ideals...and her life.

And even while trying to navigate the unfamiliar pathways and temptations of American power, Valeria will have to contend with a mother still frozen by bitterness about the past, a brother jealous of Valeria's future, and the ghost of the father who abandoned them all and then died before Valeria could even begin to understand his reasons.

But as Valeria will discover, in the world she has entered, personal and political can be meaningless distinctions. There are no solutions, only trade-offs, and as Valeria negotiates with the factions holding real power in America—Wall Street, the Pentagon, Silicon Valley—the lines between compromise and capitulation, savvy and sell-out, player and played, become increasingly hard to see, with ultimate stakes not just for Valeria, but for the very future of constitutional democracy in America.

Genres: Fiction, Thriller, Politics, Suspense, Audiobook, Mystery Thriller

Audible Audio

Published June 9, 2025

About the author

Barry Eisler spent three years in a covert position with the CIA’s Directorate of Operations, then worked as a technology lawyer and startup executive in Silicon Valley and Japan, earning his black belt at the Kodokan Judo Institute along the way. Eisler’s award-winning thrillers have been included in numerous “Best Of” lists, have been translated into nearly twenty languages, and include the #1 bestsellers Livia Lone, The Night Trade, and The Killer Collective. Eisler lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and, when he's not writing novels, blogs about national security and the media. www.barryeisler.com

Series:
* John Rain

Reviews

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Timely, as usual.

Barry creates characters that you want to like, even if they are assassins. Valeria definitely is a character that you want to root for. She shows extraordinary intelligence and resilience, but some unexpected naivety.

The plot is timely, and thus, scary. I only hope that there are few Col. Wells in the current Pentagon leadership, though I fear that's a false hope.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The System

i have lomg been a fan of Barry Eisler’s books, John Rain, Dox and Livia Lone but this book is a real departure from those and at the start I wondered whether it was something I would enjoy. It did not take long because, like all good novelists, Barry has the knack of reeling you in very quickly. I love the plot, so relevant to modern times, the insights into US politics, the numerous quotes which show a real understanding of human nature, particularly with regards to US politics and the introduction of a new hero - Valeria Velez. There is intrigue, bravery smarts and is well, well worth the read.

[Tyler Hitchcock · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m a huge Barry Eisler fan. Read every one of his books… but this was my least favorite. While it was entertaining, the AOC like Valeria was someone you can definitely root for. Without spoiling though, I got to the end of this book, and felt like I should only be halfway through! The inciting incident of this book unfortunately happens as the climax. She upsets the system! Now what? I will read a part 2, but I just feel this book was incomplete.

[Jp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big fan of Barry Eisler (author). It was nice to see something that's a different vein than the assassins that I've grown to love over the years. I wish more authors took chances with the new and I was happy to see it.

He introduces his readers to a new battlefield and a new champion, as Valeria Velez, a newly elected congressperson that toppled an incumbent in a political upset, must navigate the minefields between special interests in congress and beyond.

That Valeria is an attractive, young latina bartender before her election feels a bit heavy handed, but once I got past that and was able to see Valeria as a character unto herself, I felt myself pulled into the novel and couldn't put it down to the explosive ending.

[Megan Diiorio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Timely, relevant, and a bit unnerving. Well researched and written, as Eisler always is. Valeria is a character you can root for, and I believe we’ll see her again, though my favorite character was the insightful, brilliant Monty. I appreciated the quotations at the beginning of each chapter. Though I could find no fault with Eisler’s storytelling, I did not find it as engaging as many of his past books.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

lotta research

Too much like current day. Can’t take it. Need unreality for now. Well-written, as usual. Not escapist. Maybe at a later date, when trump and maga are gone.

[Alan Coll-Peacock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barry Eisler is one of my favourite authors, so when this book was released last month it pretty much moved to the front of the TBR queue.
While a lot of Eislers work is linked through the Rain world (Dox, Livia Lone, Treven etc), this is a purely standalone novel which could easily be a blow by blow account of US politics right now. I'm no expert on the subject matter, but you just have to glance at Eislers blogs and the references/notes at the back of this book to know that he's done his research and knows his stuff.
Being a fan of his books, it was easy to get into the flow of the writing here, while it may seem overwhelming if like me you know little of the US political arena, Eisler tells a detailed story that is easy to get into and swept up by. The characters are each interesting in their own way, each providing a different look from what readers are used to with his Rain protagonists for example. It's great and possibly refreshing to see that Eisler can dip out of his established series/world and write a standalone novel that will undoubtedly thrill more than it's fair share of readers just as much but in a different way to his other books.
I feel as though this review is waffling a bit, but I don't go into plot details with these reviews, just overall opinions really. And to be honest, my overall opinion is that this book is one that I'd happily recommend to everyone. The story itself is really well told, and then there's the fact that this could be real life, either now or in the very near future, if not already.
It's full marks from me, to be honest I expected it to be up there and as usual Eisler didn't disappoint. Great work!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable book. I am a fan of the author, and this was the most enjoyable work of his so far. The plot was just complex enough, but not overly so. The characters were well-developed - I actually cared about what happened to them, laughed when something was supposed to be funny, and cringed when someone's actions were cringeworthy. Definitely a good read and hard to put down.

[Carl Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loaded with intrigue, danger & dirty politics. I’ve read all of the other books by this author, and it’s definitely a step in a different direction. Excellent characters woven all the way through. Scary because it could be real. Highly recommend this book.

[beyondzero · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.9

[Mike Reagan · Rating 2 out of 5]

weird AOC fan fiction

It was a struggle to finish this book. I enjoyed this past stuff but this one wasn’t good at all.

[Rich Buickerood · Rating 2 out of 5]

Least Favorite Eisler Novel

This novel starts out quite nicely but then becomes the author’s anti government diatribe. The more I read the less believable the main character became. I know he justifies or explains all of his main points, but the sarcasm and distain becomes a bit much.

[Wes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eisler is known for his John Rain books and their spin-off & cross-over works (the Rainiverse?) But his newest, The System, is [currently] a stand-alone political thriller that has some similarities, and lots of differences, from his other books. But it's still a page-turning, hard-to-put-down thrill ride, just with different thrills. Go into it knowing that while the writing is as strong and tight as any of Eisler's other books, the focus is not exactly the same. That's a good thing.

Other reviews will have gone into the plot details, so I'm not going to recreate the wheel. But I will reiterate the timeliness of the plot (as of this review's writing in 2025!) and how "ripped from the headlines" much of the politics and geopolitical concerns are. There were times when I would actively think, "That's happening right now!" Or, "Damn, I wish I could vote for Valeria Velez!"

With the book taking place in the real world, I both look forward to potential sequels as Valeria rises through the halls of power in DC, and also look forward to the *possibility* that she could play a role in the "Rainiverse" should Barry choose to go that direction. Valeria's strength of character, dedication to a cause, and general mental fortitude would make her a pretty strong partner with Rain, Delilah, Dox, Livia, and all of the others who have entered their circle over the years.

Wholeheartedly recommended.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barry Eisler never disappoints, and The System: A Novel of the Deep State is yet another example of why he’s my go-to answer when someone asks me to name my favorite fiction writer who’s still relatively unknown to the wider public.

Eisler has a rare gift for pulling readers deep into the thought process of his invariably interesting characters. In The System, that skill is on full display through Valeria Velez—a young, idealistic Congresswoman navigating the treacherous intersection of personal history, political ambition, and the shadowy forces of American power. The supporting cast, from her determined boyfriend/campaign manager to the bitter mother, jealous brother, and a fugitive hacker with world-shaking intel, all have distinct, authentic voices that make the story feel alive.

The plot blends the political tension of House of Cards with the emotional nuance of The Diplomat, moving between backroom power plays and intimate character moments without losing momentum. Eisler’s understanding of how power really works—its compromises, moral trade-offs, and blurred lines—gives the novel a credibility that makes it as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Why not five stars? Only because I reserve those for the rarest of the rare -- books that have deeply impacted my life. But if Goodreads allowed half-stars, this would be an easy 4.5 for me. The System is a smart, gripping read that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page. Highly recommended.

[Bill Krieger · Rating 1 out of 5]

 
DNF at 40%. Woof.

Rated 4.3 here on Goodreads. "A riveting exposé of the inner workings of American power." Man, I'm missing something.

For better or worse, I'm a pretty stubborn guy. I decided to give this book until 50% before throwing in the towel. I couldn't do it. I didn't care about the characters or the story or anything. It was truly boring, and I had to bail at 40%.

The problem (other than me) is writing a book about politics. I like the author, Barry Eisler. I already have another one of his books queued up. But if there's nothing going on but political meetings and maneuvering and all, then it's a drag. And this book is a drag.

QOTD

“Preston . . . ,” she started. But she didn’t know what else to say. He turned to her. She could see him now, faintly in the weak moonlight, but she couldn’t read his expression.

“It’s fine,” he said. “I was your campaign manager. Now I’m your chief of staff. If you want to have a meeting, we’ll have a meeting.”

“I’m sorry,” she said.

He nodded. “I am, too.”

- political drama (cough), The System

Even the political quotes that preceded each chapter felt forced and cliché. (shrug)

Not a good read. thanks...yow, bill
 

[Ken Karcher]

Excellent change of pace

I've been reading Eisler's books since he created John Rain and was interested in the outline for this new novel, and I knew his take was going to be intriguing as well as thoughtful. We get to discover Valeria and Preston, two young, idealistic political newcomers who team up to get Valeria elected to Congress over a popular incumbent and the forces who then combine and conspire to bring her to heel. This is a masterclass in the seduction of the innocent. Politics, in this day and age, is a vile business, no longer Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, if it ever was. We are instructed on how our republic works, and like sausage making, it's impossible to watch without turning your stomach. I grew to care about the main character, Valeria, Eisler takes care to write his female characters well. He also includes a number of interesting peripheral characters who steal complete sections of the book, I'm now curious to see just how many of these individuals will be in future novels. A very well written book on politics, making me stop to consider where I stand.

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

“The System” by Barry Eisler (2025) is a political thriller that follows Valeria Velez, an idealistic newcomer who defeats a 10-term congressman in California, determined to rein in the military‐industrial complex and return power to citizens. However, when a hacker named Lance Thaddeus exposes a Pentagon program that melds artificial intelligence with nuclear command control, Valeria must wrestle with her ideals as she is drawn into Washington’s web of compromise, influence, and competing power centers—from the Pentagon and Silicon Valley to Wall Street. Over the course of the novel, the distinction between moral clarity and political reality blurs, exposing how personal ambitions, family wounds, and institutional inertia shape what it means to wield power—and at what cost to principle and democracy.

What a slog. Culminating in a speech. Well researched, but dreadfully slow. Interesting topic but ultimately meaningless ending in a speech.

[Edward "Gryftkin" Myers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Valeria has just pulled off the upset of the century, defeating the presumptive next Speaker of the House, but soon she finds out just what happens when you run on a platform of trimming the fat from the Pentagon to pay for things like a universal basic income. Is the congresswoman-elect ready to take on the big boys and what compromises is she willing to make to keep from becoming a one-term politician? Throw in a hacker who has been deemed a terrorist, an "on the spectrum" advisor, a campaign manager she's been sleeping with, a really hot ex-SEAL, and a program that the Pentagon doesn't want to admit exists and she's having quite the week... and we haven't even touched on family problems. If you're looking for a John Rain novel, this isn't it, but Barry has managed to write a book that makes up in character story, tension, and intrigue what it lacks in body count. Absolutely worth the read.

[Jkane · Rating 5 out of 5]

No more insightful author exists on politics, the spin-doctoring of the American people, and the threat of the deep state to both the country, but also to Democracy. This is a classic example of a politician who has wide aspirations of how she can change the lives of her constituents, as well as the nation, if given enough time. Here, though, reality smacks her clearly and violently in the face. As anyone even vaguely familiar with politics knows, for every person who supports one notion, there is an equal and opposite person who opposes such action- usually with even more vehemence. Our main character sees behind the curtain, and is fairly horrified. In true Eisler fashion, though, a comeuppance is a a fast-paced train roaring down the tracks!

I really wanted Dox, Rain, Larison, or even Manus to be the engineer of that train, but Eisler wanted this to be a stand-alone, which I get.

[Val Ras · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is very different from other works by this author that usually involve assassins and tough men (and women). This time the main character is a young congresswoman, who is just starting her first term. She comes into possession of explosive information about secret Pentagon project. The book could be divided into two parts. First half of the book is excruciatingly slow and boring. I understand that it sets the background for the heroine but still, I almost stopped reading. The second half is much much better: the action is fast and plot is powerful. I could do without detailed sex scenes, that I don't think belong here. I am sure this the first book of future series.

[Guy Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superb political thriller, as always a believable (and terrifying) plot regarding AI and Pentagon dreams.It is utterly believable, it involves serious research by Eisler(as shown by the reference section included) with a surprise first time senator being the main character, the compromises that are necessary are shown with realistic clarity.It is a grown up political thriller .
I am wondering if this is the first of a new seriesI hope so , the ending left this a very real possibility,I hope so.

[Bill Powers · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have read and thoroughly enjoyed several of Barry Eisler's books. The System disappointed me to the point that after eight chapters, I gave up, something that I rarely do. I found the protagonist to be unlikable, but a near-realistic democratic socialist. No, thank you. I can read about AOC or Mandami or any of the real ones that we have.

I have another one of Eisler's books queued up. Hopefully, it's closer to his suspense/thriller style. I appreciate the effort, but for me, The System was a big swing and a miss.

[Ray Alcorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

Do not miss this book. A peek behind the curtain of how our government conspires against us. Eisler has a knack for ferreting out truths long before they become common knowledge, and it's usually disturbing.

The System is a departure from Eisler's usual style, but an excellent stand alone tale. The characters are complex yet simple, well drawn and fully fleshed. The plot is twisty and the ending sublime. This is a master at the top of his game.

[James Whelan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has begun to avoid even watching the news, I was looking forward to another fast paced thriller from Barry Eisler , but the first 20-30 pages had me thinking The System was going to be a political diatribe. I am glad I stuck it out because, of course, the book becomes an amazing character study that had me asking myself if I have the courage to navigate our country’s next chapter, and hope that there are people like Valeria to lead the way.

[Mike Daly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unexpectedly good

This is not your typical Eisler novel. It has a great plot and has many twists. However, it is very dense. It develops deeply into back channels of politics and has a factual basis. In every iteration it speaks about I found myself really liking this book. I will be completely honest, I did not like the ending, although it sets it up for a sequel.

[Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whenever one of Barry Eisler's new stories appears, I let it cut in front of every other entertainment option. This was no different and I finished it within the week and enjoyed it thoroughly.

"There is only one party in the United States, the Property Party and it has two right wings: Republican and Democrat." Fact?

[Terry Moe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative, not your average Eisler novel

Great novel to help understand “why” and our current dilemma. I feel safer In Panama. I wish the US wasn’t so broken. I am grateful despite our challenging times that my kids are healthy. Maybe we can all agree to be better parents and community members. Talk to strangers, that’s a good place to start

[Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scary But True

The author has lived within the world of the Deep State for most of his life and has condensed his experiences into a novel that is a lot closer to reality than most insiders would ever admit. He as backed up his claims with dozens of references, which are listed in detail as an addendum.

[Lise Duquette · Rating 1 out of 5]

.5 star or less. I will not finish it. The heroine of the book is an obnoxious self-centered, power hungry b****. She is acting more like an MTG than an AOC. After a few chapters, I was so irritated by her that I was ready to push her in front of the bus. I will not waste any more of my precious time on this story.

[Mekerei · Rating 4 out of 5]

inner Workings of American Power

Another excellent tale by Eisler. He writes of politics and how knowledge is key.

A novel with a Latino woman as the main character, is not what you would have expected. Eisler likes his characters to be unexpected.

Hope this is not the only time we meet Valeria Velvez.

Four stars