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Rake Ozenna Thriller #1
MAN ON ICE an action-packed, high-octane thriller
ICE COLD. RED HOT ACTION
A remote Alaskan island. A brutal winter storm. A Russian invasion the world didn’t see coming.
Special Agent Rake Ozenna is used to the cold. Born and raised on the jagged rocks of Little Diomede, he knows the Bering Strait better than any man alive.
But when a fleet of Russian military helicopters screams out of the fog, Rake realizes the ice is about to run red.
What starts as a desperate medical emergency spirals into a terrifying geopolitical standoff. The Russians aren’t here to help. They’re here to seize American soil.
ONE MAN STANDS IN THEIR WAY.
Trapped between two superpowers on the brink of World War III, Rake must wage a one-man war across the frozen wilderness. No backup. No heat. No room for error.
If he fails, the border isn't the only thing that collapses — the future of the United States goes with it.
A gripping thriller full of action, intrigue, and heart-pounding suspense. Fans of Lee Child, Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, Mark Greaney, and Mark Dawson won’t want to miss this.
WHY READERS ARE
THE A claustrophobic, sub-zero battlefield where the weather is as lethal as the enemy.
THE Rake Ozenna — a man of few words, dry humor, and a lethal sense of justice.
THE High-octane action meets terrifyingly plausible global politics.
THE REVIEWS ARE
‘Excellent.’ Mail on Sunday – Thriller of the Week
‘Hawksley's hero, Rake Ozenna, is smart and tough, and we're glad to have him on our side.’ Nelson De Mille
‘Knuckle-whitening suspense . . . and plenty of surprising twists, make this a gripping, can't-put-it-down read.’ Booklist
‘Authentic settings, non-stop action, backstabbing villains, and rough justice . . . Keeps you ready for the gut punch.’ Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The Mail on Sunday rightly named Man on Ice its thriller of the week, a totally new, unfamiliar setting with strong, unusual characters.’ Sam C.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘In the remote Alaskan wilderness, a desperate medical emergency spirals into a high-stakes battle for survival as a Russian invasion threatens to ignite global conflict.’ Peter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Hawksley combines all the ingredients of a good thriller with acute political observation.’ Jeremy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This was one of those random reads you thank your lucky stars for when in need of a tightly-written, edgy thriller.’ Lilli
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The adrenaline won’t let you put this book done. Intensity, high-octane and thrilling are just a few of the words that should be used to describe Humphrey Hawksley’s Man on Ice.’ Sarah J.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Wow, talk about fast paced action and suspense galore.
A remote Alaskan island. A brutal winter storm. A Russian invasion the world didn’t see coming.
Special Agent Rake Ozenna is used to the cold. Born and raised on the jagged rocks of Little Diomede, he knows the Bering Strait better than any man alive.
But when a fleet of Russian military helicopters screams out of the fog, Rake realizes the ice is about to run red.
What starts as a desperate medical emergency spirals into a terrifying geopolitical standoff. The Russians aren’t here to help. They’re here to seize American soil.
ONE MAN STANDS IN THEIR WAY.
Trapped between two superpowers on the brink of World War III, Rake must wage a one-man war across the frozen wilderness. No backup. No heat. No room for error.
If he fails, the border isn't the only thing that collapses — the future of the United States goes with it.
A gripping thriller full of action, intrigue, and heart-pounding suspense. Fans of Lee Child, Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, Mark Greaney, and Mark Dawson won’t want to miss this.
WHY READERS ARE
THE A claustrophobic, sub-zero battlefield where the weather is as lethal as the enemy.
THE Rake Ozenna — a man of few words, dry humor, and a lethal sense of justice.
THE High-octane action meets terrifyingly plausible global politics.
THE REVIEWS ARE
‘Excellent.’ Mail on Sunday – Thriller of the Week
‘Hawksley's hero, Rake Ozenna, is smart and tough, and we're glad to have him on our side.’ Nelson De Mille
‘Knuckle-whitening suspense . . . and plenty of surprising twists, make this a gripping, can't-put-it-down read.’ Booklist
‘Authentic settings, non-stop action, backstabbing villains, and rough justice . . . Keeps you ready for the gut punch.’ Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The Mail on Sunday rightly named Man on Ice its thriller of the week, a totally new, unfamiliar setting with strong, unusual characters.’ Sam C.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘In the remote Alaskan wilderness, a desperate medical emergency spirals into a high-stakes battle for survival as a Russian invasion threatens to ignite global conflict.’ Peter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Hawksley combines all the ingredients of a good thriller with acute political observation.’ Jeremy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This was one of those random reads you thank your lucky stars for when in need of a tightly-written, edgy thriller.’ Lilli
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The adrenaline won’t let you put this book done. Intensity, high-octane and thrilling are just a few of the words that should be used to describe Humphrey Hawksley’s Man on Ice.’ Sarah J.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Wow, talk about fast paced action and suspense galore.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
253 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Humphrey Hawksley
18 books76 followersHumphrey is an award-winning author, podcaster and journalist whose assignments with the BBC have taken him to crises all over the world. The three books in his future history series -- Dragonstrike, Dragonfire and The Third World War -- have been praised as authentic, catastrophic scenarios which begin with a Chinese strike in the South China Sea. His Rake Ozenna espionage thriller series is set in the Arctic and High North, beginning with Man on Ice and a Russian invasion of the Alaskan island of Little Diomede. Rake is an island native and a special forces veteran with the Alaska National Guard. The late, great Nelson de Mille applauded Rake as being smart and tough, 'and we’re glad to have him on our side.' Humphrey's non-fiction work includes Democracy Kills: What’s So Good About Having The Vote, published during the Iraq civil war and Asian Waters: The Struggle over the Indo-Pacific and the Challenge to American Power which examines the impact of Chinese expansion in Asia. Humphrey hosts the bi-monthly Democracy Forum Debates. His work has appeared in most mainstream media outlets and he has been guest lecturer at universities and think tanks such as the RAND Corporation, The Center for Strategic and International Studies and MENSA Cambridge. He moderates the Democracy Forum Debates on international issues and is a host of the Goldster Magazine Show and podcast.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 2, 2021
Wow, talk about fast paced action and suspense galore. Man on Ice by Humphrey Hawksley is the first book about Rake Ozenna. It all starts so well, he is on the way to his home island with his fiancé. What could possibly go wrong? Well... It starts with a complicated birth and then the russians invade. From then on until the end it is a high speed thriller with well written dialogue. I got the third book as an advance copy and it was great so I had to start over from the beginning and I really recommend that you do as well. Great series about a small place on earth.
July 7, 2019
A compelling political thriller and a great story
Here’s a taut, well written thriller that you will read in a rush of “What happens? What happens?”, but then think about for a long time afterwards. Set in an unspecified not-too-distant future, it tells the story of an international crisis triggered by an (initially rather insignificant) incident on the remote Alaskan border with Russia. There is plenty of tight, well-written action, and the characters - including several feisty women in different roles – are beautifully drawn and fully engaging. The writing is a joy, and the depictions of the unusual arctic setting are atmospheric and memorable. What I may remember longest from this book, however, is the compelling depiction of the politics underpinning a potential world war. As two world powers square up to each other, it becomes clear that this small incident has roots going back deep into history. Other countries jostle uneasily towards one side or another, looking to their own interests; financial agencies struggle to contain economic risks; on all sides, key players are struggling to second guess each other, in the full knowledge that both sides will lie about their intentions and that a wrong guess could have desperate consequences; even on the same side, different players have very different agendas, looking to manage or exploit the situation for their own advantage. And cutting across all of this, there are the random networks of human friendships and animosity, sometimes assisting, sometimes undercutting, the higher political objectives. I was completely persuaded by this book. Seriously worth the read.
Here’s a taut, well written thriller that you will read in a rush of “What happens? What happens?”, but then think about for a long time afterwards. Set in an unspecified not-too-distant future, it tells the story of an international crisis triggered by an (initially rather insignificant) incident on the remote Alaskan border with Russia. There is plenty of tight, well-written action, and the characters - including several feisty women in different roles – are beautifully drawn and fully engaging. The writing is a joy, and the depictions of the unusual arctic setting are atmospheric and memorable. What I may remember longest from this book, however, is the compelling depiction of the politics underpinning a potential world war. As two world powers square up to each other, it becomes clear that this small incident has roots going back deep into history. Other countries jostle uneasily towards one side or another, looking to their own interests; financial agencies struggle to contain economic risks; on all sides, key players are struggling to second guess each other, in the full knowledge that both sides will lie about their intentions and that a wrong guess could have desperate consequences; even on the same side, different players have very different agendas, looking to manage or exploit the situation for their own advantage. And cutting across all of this, there are the random networks of human friendships and animosity, sometimes assisting, sometimes undercutting, the higher political objectives. I was completely persuaded by this book. Seriously worth the read.
September 18, 2018
Explosive invasion of Alaska by the Russians!
Captain Rake Ozenna and Dr Carrie Walker flew by helicopter to Little Diomede, Alaska for an emergency evacuation. The district nurse helped pregnant Akna whose waters broke.
The helicopter was delayed returning to its base by the bad weather. Carrie was worried about Akna who could die (in the cold conditions) as they were stranded.
The UK ambassador to Washington, D.C. hosted the dinner for the Prime Minister, Kevin Slater, and the US President-elect, Bob Holland. The outgoing President, Christopher Swain, summoned them to the White House after they heard about the situation in Alaska.
After invading Alaska, the Russians claimed that the local population were maltreated, and Alaska was mis-sold to the US for peanuts in 1867. Admiral Alexander Vitruk, the invading commander told Carrie that the Russian would make the world a better place to live while threatening to kill Ozenna.
I like this book as two world’s superpowers clash, threatening new nuclear world war. Good work by Humphrey Hawksley.
Caesar 13
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
Captain Rake Ozenna and Dr Carrie Walker flew by helicopter to Little Diomede, Alaska for an emergency evacuation. The district nurse helped pregnant Akna whose waters broke.
The helicopter was delayed returning to its base by the bad weather. Carrie was worried about Akna who could die (in the cold conditions) as they were stranded.
The UK ambassador to Washington, D.C. hosted the dinner for the Prime Minister, Kevin Slater, and the US President-elect, Bob Holland. The outgoing President, Christopher Swain, summoned them to the White House after they heard about the situation in Alaska.
After invading Alaska, the Russians claimed that the local population were maltreated, and Alaska was mis-sold to the US for peanuts in 1867. Admiral Alexander Vitruk, the invading commander told Carrie that the Russian would make the world a better place to live while threatening to kill Ozenna.
I like this book as two world’s superpowers clash, threatening new nuclear world war. Good work by Humphrey Hawksley.
Caesar 13
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
August 5, 2020
What an enjoyable book. Fast-paced, action-filled, and interesting characters. I love finding a new-to-me author who writes so well that I want to stay up all night to finish the book. And, knowing there's more in this series is a bonus!
February 15, 2023
Fast-paced plot with believable characters.
The storyline evolved around a multitude of characters, but they were very well developed and written. Main character - Rake Ozenna - is an army captain and takes his trauma doctor fiancé to meet his family on a small Alaskan island. Once they land, multiple events happen leading to an invasion of the island by Russian troops, supposedly for a humanitarian mission.
There are many secondary characters in government roles, which in the first two chapters is a bit of information overload but all of the characters quickly become known and easier to keep track of. What I really appreciated is that many of the characters had intertwined backstories which explained the ease of access and familiarity.
Man on Ice was loaded with geopolitical intrigue, ramifications and plot lines. As I grew up during the tail-end of the Cold War, I had a basic understanding of USA — Russia history but I believe if someone has no prior knowledge of the relationship between the 2 nations it would still be a thrilling read.
This is a very quick read as the storyline is engrossing and the plot moves very fast.
This review appeared on my website.
Recommend?
I recommend this to everyone! All ages will get something from this action-packed thriller.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was asked to review this book from the author's publicist, but I received the digital book via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County Library system. It was read as a Kindle Book.
I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
The storyline evolved around a multitude of characters, but they were very well developed and written. Main character - Rake Ozenna - is an army captain and takes his trauma doctor fiancé to meet his family on a small Alaskan island. Once they land, multiple events happen leading to an invasion of the island by Russian troops, supposedly for a humanitarian mission.
There are many secondary characters in government roles, which in the first two chapters is a bit of information overload but all of the characters quickly become known and easier to keep track of. What I really appreciated is that many of the characters had intertwined backstories which explained the ease of access and familiarity.
Man on Ice was loaded with geopolitical intrigue, ramifications and plot lines. As I grew up during the tail-end of the Cold War, I had a basic understanding of USA — Russia history but I believe if someone has no prior knowledge of the relationship between the 2 nations it would still be a thrilling read.
This is a very quick read as the storyline is engrossing and the plot moves very fast.
This review appeared on my website.
Recommend?
I recommend this to everyone! All ages will get something from this action-packed thriller.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was asked to review this book from the author's publicist, but I received the digital book via the OverDrive/Libby app from the Harris County Library system. It was read as a Kindle Book.
I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
August 3, 2021
This was a real page turner and the fastest I have ever read a book ;two days! Very exciting story ,a must read if you like action and political turmoil .
May 30, 2018
An excellent thriller and a fast paced adventure.
June 15, 2021
Really enjoyed the book would like to read the next one in not willing to pay £12 for the kindle edition
February 8, 2021
Man on ice detailed and gory
Man on Ice (Rake Ozenna thrillers) is the first book in this spy thriller series. The book series follows a special agent named Rake Ozenna. In this book you Meet this special agent;Rake Ozenna; with his fiancé Dr.Carrie Walker. Rake has brought his fiancé back to his hometown in Alaska to meet his family but not for the reason the readers would normally assume.Rame brought Carrie to Alaska to help with The delivery of his 15-year-old nieces baby. WARNING FROM THIS POINT ON THERE WILL BE MANOR SPOILERS ! THE BOOK IS GREAT AND IF YOU DONT WANT SPOILERS PLEASE DONT READ AHEAD, THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS
Once I read that the niece is 15 giving birth and needed a specialist and the main character brought his fiancé I thought wow the author is really going for it here pushing the envelope and “bam” they reveal the father of the baby is actually Rakes brother . I went and read that part twice before moving on to discover that Dale’s brother I. A drunken stupor or rage rather brutally murdered his wife and raped his daughter, and she was now in a life threatening high risk pregnancy. As the reader I thought to myself “ Dr Walker alsaska is brutal maybe rethink this getting married to the Alaskan special agent!” As I continued Reading I was drawn into the story and wanted Dr. Walker and special agentOzenna Do you have the typical happily ever after ending which it did not end typically but it ended in a way that fit the story. My only complain about the book is that the author is so excellent at Descriptive writing as a reader I was thoroughly lost in Alaska and I could see everything happening it was beautiful and scary at the same time. I am not one to watch movies with a lot of blood and gore reading books with blood and gore usually does not bother me this book however is written exceptionally well which is a blessing and a curse for people like myself who gets lost in them because this is a spy thriller. Spy thrillers or not known do you be gentle and have happy endings therefore if you are not one that likes to read blood and gore this might not be the book for you BUT if you can get past that ( and I recommend you try because I can not get over how well the author writes I could truly “see” each scene) you need to Fran this series! I highly recommend anyone who likes to get lost in a story or is looking for and adventure to start this series, they will not be disappointed! Thank you , God Bless and Jesus Loves you
Man on Ice (Rake Ozenna thrillers) is the first book in this spy thriller series. The book series follows a special agent named Rake Ozenna. In this book you Meet this special agent;Rake Ozenna; with his fiancé Dr.Carrie Walker. Rake has brought his fiancé back to his hometown in Alaska to meet his family but not for the reason the readers would normally assume.Rame brought Carrie to Alaska to help with The delivery of his 15-year-old nieces baby. WARNING FROM THIS POINT ON THERE WILL BE MANOR SPOILERS ! THE BOOK IS GREAT AND IF YOU DONT WANT SPOILERS PLEASE DONT READ AHEAD, THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS
Once I read that the niece is 15 giving birth and needed a specialist and the main character brought his fiancé I thought wow the author is really going for it here pushing the envelope and “bam” they reveal the father of the baby is actually Rakes brother . I went and read that part twice before moving on to discover that Dale’s brother I. A drunken stupor or rage rather brutally murdered his wife and raped his daughter, and she was now in a life threatening high risk pregnancy. As the reader I thought to myself “ Dr Walker alsaska is brutal maybe rethink this getting married to the Alaskan special agent!” As I continued Reading I was drawn into the story and wanted Dr. Walker and special agentOzenna Do you have the typical happily ever after ending which it did not end typically but it ended in a way that fit the story. My only complain about the book is that the author is so excellent at Descriptive writing as a reader I was thoroughly lost in Alaska and I could see everything happening it was beautiful and scary at the same time. I am not one to watch movies with a lot of blood and gore reading books with blood and gore usually does not bother me this book however is written exceptionally well which is a blessing and a curse for people like myself who gets lost in them because this is a spy thriller. Spy thrillers or not known do you be gentle and have happy endings therefore if you are not one that likes to read blood and gore this might not be the book for you BUT if you can get past that ( and I recommend you try because I can not get over how well the author writes I could truly “see” each scene) you need to Fran this series! I highly recommend anyone who likes to get lost in a story or is looking for and adventure to start this series, they will not be disappointed! Thank you , God Bless and Jesus Loves you
April 16, 2018
Humphrey Hawksley has a good track record as a thriller writer and Man On Ice is another easy flowing and exciting novel. The story involves a Russian takeover of a small Alaskan community on the border between Russia and America. The military action takes place on the eve of the inauguration of a new American President and the story moves between the complex diplomatic manoeuvring in Washington and the on-the-ground action on the Alaskan island of Little Diomede. Fortunately island native Rake Ozenna, a member of an elite infantry unit known as the Eskimo Scouts, happens to be visiting Diomede with his fiancé when the military action starts and soon plays an important role in combating the Russians. Some of the book strains credibility, especially the manoeuvring in Washington involving the new President - a slightly exaggerated version of Trump. Nevertheless it moves quickly and makes for an interesting light read.
January 16, 2020
This is an explosive start to the adventures of the American native-Alaskan soldier, Rake Ozenna. He is cold but warm-hearted, ice-cool but humane, remote but sensitive. And he can fight like a cross between a snow-leopard, a polar bear and a killer whale. This fabulously frozen saga pits him against the cyber-machinations of America and Russia sometime soon, as deceit and double-dealing threaten to unhinge the world balance in the corridors and committee rooms of the two powers and every move is both visible and invisible, depending what IT and AI trickery is to hand.
A very very thrilling read!
A very very thrilling read!
April 4, 2018
Humphrey Hawksley is a well known investigative journalist in UK and this is the first novel I have read by him.
Also he has such a distinctive speaking voice that I could here him speaking every word!
It's well written, covering the age old premise of Russian versus American protagonists, but coming from a different angle, namely the Arctic.
(Considering what is going on in the world just lately, very apposite!)
A good story, well told and I shall look out for more in the future.
Recommended.
Also he has such a distinctive speaking voice that I could here him speaking every word!
It's well written, covering the age old premise of Russian versus American protagonists, but coming from a different angle, namely the Arctic.
(Considering what is going on in the world just lately, very apposite!)
A good story, well told and I shall look out for more in the future.
Recommended.
November 6, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Man on Ice. A book about a special agent who is on the cusp of world war III. I really enjoyed reading the book and the cold war atmosphere it creates. I learn't a lot about Alaska and the US-Russian Border. I would really recommend this book and I cannot wait to start reading Man on Edge, the sequel!
June 14, 2018
Man on Ice: Russia vs the USA- in Alaska by Humphrey Hawksley
Rake Ozenna is a member of the elite squad called Eskimo Scouts. He takes his fiancé Carrie to visit his home in Alaska. His community is a remote island in Bering Strait. They arrive to find a medical emergency involving a 15-year-old pregnant girl. It is foggy and getting help is next to impossible. Carrie can only do so much. It is then that a Russian helicopter arrives presumably to remedy the situation. As it will soon be found out, it is actually a ploy to take over the island. Rake soon finds out about this daring move by the Russians. They have chosen a great time, when the country is a few days away from inaugurating a new president. The country cannot afford this problem right now. He endeavors to take them out one by one before World War 3 breaks out. Will he succeed? Find out about this unmarked border that separates two of the biggest enemy countries on earth.
The US and Russia are separated by a slim slip of land and water called Bering Strait. This border is not policed or marked. The virtual border is known by what is called the Ice Curtain. The author developed an interest in this border and decided to use it as a backdrop for his story. The story takes the fight to new territory. The plot is fresh and intriguing. The way in which the Russians seep into American territory is actually quite genius. The author treats the reader to lots and lots of action. He treats the reader to lots of blood, violence and dirty tricks. This is an excellent read if you are in the mood for a suspenseful journey through interactions between warring superpowers.
Rake is your typical scout. He vows to protect his community, by all means necessary. He has sworn allegiance to the country and his people. The author has not shied away from showing a little bit of his personal interactions. This adds new dimensions to the character. The dialogue between characters is well crafted and interesting. It gives life to the interactions. The dialogue throws the reader right into the thick of it. It accords personality to each character. Vitruk is delightfully confusing. On one hand, he is out to get the American government and is willing to put the people of the island in the crosshairs. On the other, he is offering vitamins and medical care to the hostages.
While it is entirely possible, the revelation of Akna’s baby daddy is a little sickening. This is not a criticism but rather a depiction of exactly how far the author can push the envelope. He also gives the reader into the relationship between Rake and Carrie. He lets the reader into the mind of each. Allowing the reader to see how each sees the other. This allows the reader to understand the quintessence of both Rake and Carrie. One is able to understand the person beneath the strong personality. The author’s description of everything else is vivid and apt. It helps the reader build a proper mental picture of the situation.
This is not your regular thriller. This is not the usual America vs Russia story. This is a carefully orchestrated mission. It is gripping and takes numerous surprising turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Rake Ozenna is a member of the elite squad called Eskimo Scouts. He takes his fiancé Carrie to visit his home in Alaska. His community is a remote island in Bering Strait. They arrive to find a medical emergency involving a 15-year-old pregnant girl. It is foggy and getting help is next to impossible. Carrie can only do so much. It is then that a Russian helicopter arrives presumably to remedy the situation. As it will soon be found out, it is actually a ploy to take over the island. Rake soon finds out about this daring move by the Russians. They have chosen a great time, when the country is a few days away from inaugurating a new president. The country cannot afford this problem right now. He endeavors to take them out one by one before World War 3 breaks out. Will he succeed? Find out about this unmarked border that separates two of the biggest enemy countries on earth.
The US and Russia are separated by a slim slip of land and water called Bering Strait. This border is not policed or marked. The virtual border is known by what is called the Ice Curtain. The author developed an interest in this border and decided to use it as a backdrop for his story. The story takes the fight to new territory. The plot is fresh and intriguing. The way in which the Russians seep into American territory is actually quite genius. The author treats the reader to lots and lots of action. He treats the reader to lots of blood, violence and dirty tricks. This is an excellent read if you are in the mood for a suspenseful journey through interactions between warring superpowers.
Rake is your typical scout. He vows to protect his community, by all means necessary. He has sworn allegiance to the country and his people. The author has not shied away from showing a little bit of his personal interactions. This adds new dimensions to the character. The dialogue between characters is well crafted and interesting. It gives life to the interactions. The dialogue throws the reader right into the thick of it. It accords personality to each character. Vitruk is delightfully confusing. On one hand, he is out to get the American government and is willing to put the people of the island in the crosshairs. On the other, he is offering vitamins and medical care to the hostages.
While it is entirely possible, the revelation of Akna’s baby daddy is a little sickening. This is not a criticism but rather a depiction of exactly how far the author can push the envelope. He also gives the reader into the relationship between Rake and Carrie. He lets the reader into the mind of each. Allowing the reader to see how each sees the other. This allows the reader to understand the quintessence of both Rake and Carrie. One is able to understand the person beneath the strong personality. The author’s description of everything else is vivid and apt. It helps the reader build a proper mental picture of the situation.
This is not your regular thriller. This is not the usual America vs Russia story. This is a carefully orchestrated mission. It is gripping and takes numerous surprising turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
June 24, 2018
Eskimos are some of the toughest communities of people in the world. Majority of us wouldn't know that because they take pride in solving their own problems without the aid of outsiders, regardless of how much they can truly use another one help. But we learn just how they were left without much choice when an emergency arises and they were lacking resources in attempts to save the life of one of their own. In 'Man On Ice' written by Humphrey Hawksley, those honored to read this book soon discover more about Eskimos than every discussed in an individual’s lifetime. A true eye-opener and a page-turner, providing actionable scenarios involving political beliefs from two popular countries, the United States and Russia.
The United States has been best known as a dominant country in the world, alongside its allies it can successfully protect, assist, and defeat other external threats. Up until now, the confidence has been at an all-time high of 'Making America Great Again' with the newest member in presidential office. But at the same time, has become hindered by focusing on other tasks that lead to endangering the safety of its people. Through this, Russia seizes the opportunity to stand in an assist for one of Diomede's largest emergency that Alaska has ever faced and anyone's help is better than none at all. With a small population of fewer than 120 people, you would wonder how were they able to survive all this time without any help from the U.S. government? A special circumstance involves a young pregnant teen clinging on to life, cannot be air-crafted to Nome’s hospital because of terrible weather of snow and fog. At the same time, other emergencies were also occurring and that occupied all other helicopters. It took for Rake Ozenna to radio S.O.S. on all channels for Russian intelligence to immediately run to their rescue. One would think nothing more of it than a nearby country offering assistance without malicious intent. First thought comes to mind of why our neighboring country, Canada, hadn't bothered to come to their aid?
It’s remarkable to notice that all it would take is for a state to be neglected by their government for the sovereignty of another country to step in when necessary. The unfortunate news about that scenario, they have access to turn this innocent decision of assistance into an actual invasion. The main characters, especially Rake Ozenna and his wife Dr. Carrie Walker, are putting their lives in danger in order to maintain a level of peace between the Eskimos of little Diomede and Russian militants. The plan for escaping the grasp of their captors seems a bit challenging because they are medically testing and treating the people for anemia and malnutrition. This book just opened up a new perspective on just how easy one country can enter with their weapons on our soil and act like they’re trying to assist when they have an ulterior motive. I recommend everyone to take a moment to read this book, hopefully, it’ll provide insights into what we can do as citizens to help each other.
The United States has been best known as a dominant country in the world, alongside its allies it can successfully protect, assist, and defeat other external threats. Up until now, the confidence has been at an all-time high of 'Making America Great Again' with the newest member in presidential office. But at the same time, has become hindered by focusing on other tasks that lead to endangering the safety of its people. Through this, Russia seizes the opportunity to stand in an assist for one of Diomede's largest emergency that Alaska has ever faced and anyone's help is better than none at all. With a small population of fewer than 120 people, you would wonder how were they able to survive all this time without any help from the U.S. government? A special circumstance involves a young pregnant teen clinging on to life, cannot be air-crafted to Nome’s hospital because of terrible weather of snow and fog. At the same time, other emergencies were also occurring and that occupied all other helicopters. It took for Rake Ozenna to radio S.O.S. on all channels for Russian intelligence to immediately run to their rescue. One would think nothing more of it than a nearby country offering assistance without malicious intent. First thought comes to mind of why our neighboring country, Canada, hadn't bothered to come to their aid?
It’s remarkable to notice that all it would take is for a state to be neglected by their government for the sovereignty of another country to step in when necessary. The unfortunate news about that scenario, they have access to turn this innocent decision of assistance into an actual invasion. The main characters, especially Rake Ozenna and his wife Dr. Carrie Walker, are putting their lives in danger in order to maintain a level of peace between the Eskimos of little Diomede and Russian militants. The plan for escaping the grasp of their captors seems a bit challenging because they are medically testing and treating the people for anemia and malnutrition. This book just opened up a new perspective on just how easy one country can enter with their weapons on our soil and act like they’re trying to assist when they have an ulterior motive. I recommend everyone to take a moment to read this book, hopefully, it’ll provide insights into what we can do as citizens to help each other.
July 2, 2018
Man on Ice, by Humphrey Hawksley, is a combination personal drama/political thriller. Set in contemporary times, just on the eve of a new President's inauguration, the Russians begin a military incursion into Alaska. When former Vice Presidential candidate, and Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin was spoofed by Tiny Fey, “I can see Russia from my house,” it is not entirely false, especially if the house is on the island of Little Diomede. Tensions run high there in the furthest reaches of Alaska as well as in DC, almost four thousand miles away.
The characters are varied, but the interesting action is centered around Rake Ozenna. This is not necessarily a good thing, as he comes across as something of a Gary Stu-style character, in that he seems perfectly suited to every situation that he finds himself in, with faint explanation as to why or how. Accompanying him is his fiancée, Dr. Carrie Walker. They make a good team together, even if some of the ways they manage to extricate themselves from dangerous or tricky situations seems to bend what is actually possible.
It is not just Americans and Russians who are in this story, but the British have an important role as well. This comes almost entirely in the personage of Stephanie Lucas, the UK ambassador to the United States. From her perspective, she gives a unique view into the workings of the political intrigue and situation surrounding the Russian incursion. The inclusion of the British perspective is interesting in that their real-life relationship with Russia has been strained as of late -- especially since the poisonings of Alexander Litvinenko and Sergei and Yulia Skripal and the Russian intervention in the Crimean region.
The book suffers from a sort of emergency fatigue in that there are almost too many critical events in rapid succession. These events somewhat overwhelm the pacing, especially in conjunction with the political intrigue -- sometimes the overall forward motion of the plot slows to a crawl, but other times it moves too quickly to keep up with to make connections with the rest of the content and characters. The story also relies perhaps too strongly on actual current events regarding tensions with Russia, as well as a broader East Asian theatre.
Hawksley does do an above average job of depicting and crafting the tension surrounding the initial confusing moments and hours after the book’s Russian incursion. It takes the United States to the brink of war, especially with the book’s President-elect only days away from inauguration. The depictions of the Eskimos and their history and culture is a small, but bright spot in the story -- and is intertwined with Rake's character.
Man on Ice seems intended for adult audiences, not necessarily because of particularly violent or sexual content -- for which there is both in small doses -- but because of its themes of global political tension and intrigue. Overall, the book is an interesting, albeit filler read. There are parts that make it difficult to put down.
The characters are varied, but the interesting action is centered around Rake Ozenna. This is not necessarily a good thing, as he comes across as something of a Gary Stu-style character, in that he seems perfectly suited to every situation that he finds himself in, with faint explanation as to why or how. Accompanying him is his fiancée, Dr. Carrie Walker. They make a good team together, even if some of the ways they manage to extricate themselves from dangerous or tricky situations seems to bend what is actually possible.
It is not just Americans and Russians who are in this story, but the British have an important role as well. This comes almost entirely in the personage of Stephanie Lucas, the UK ambassador to the United States. From her perspective, she gives a unique view into the workings of the political intrigue and situation surrounding the Russian incursion. The inclusion of the British perspective is interesting in that their real-life relationship with Russia has been strained as of late -- especially since the poisonings of Alexander Litvinenko and Sergei and Yulia Skripal and the Russian intervention in the Crimean region.
The book suffers from a sort of emergency fatigue in that there are almost too many critical events in rapid succession. These events somewhat overwhelm the pacing, especially in conjunction with the political intrigue -- sometimes the overall forward motion of the plot slows to a crawl, but other times it moves too quickly to keep up with to make connections with the rest of the content and characters. The story also relies perhaps too strongly on actual current events regarding tensions with Russia, as well as a broader East Asian theatre.
Hawksley does do an above average job of depicting and crafting the tension surrounding the initial confusing moments and hours after the book’s Russian incursion. It takes the United States to the brink of war, especially with the book’s President-elect only days away from inauguration. The depictions of the Eskimos and their history and culture is a small, but bright spot in the story -- and is intertwined with Rake's character.
Man on Ice seems intended for adult audiences, not necessarily because of particularly violent or sexual content -- for which there is both in small doses -- but because of its themes of global political tension and intrigue. Overall, the book is an interesting, albeit filler read. There are parts that make it difficult to put down.
June 22, 2018
The perfect way to describe Man on Ice by Humphrey Hawksley is political thriller. The story is set two days prior to the inauguration of an American president, the narrative takes off from the very beginning and does not let up at all. At times, it very much has the feel of a nail-biting, roller coaster ride. The action starts on the island Little Diomede, Alaska and moves back and forth between Alaska and Washington D.C. While the two places could not be more different, the actions of these people in both places clearly illustrate just how little actually separates human beings, regardless of where they originate.
The characters are very memorable. Rake Ozenna is the soldier, a native of Little Diomede, returning for a personal trip. He brings along his fiancée, Dr. Carrie Walker. They met in war and together, the soldier and the doctor will make an excellent team for what they will soon face. Rake’s adoptive parents, Henry and Joan let them know that they have a young girl in early labor. It is not going well and they need help. The couple and the people on Little Diomede soon find themselves as pawns in the middle of a serious political battle.
Meanwhile, in D.C., the British ambassador, Stephanie Lucas is doing her best to maintain peace, while also dealing with the fast-approaching inauguration of a hotheaded president. She also knows Dr. Carrie Walker and a few of the “bad guys” as well.
The author creates an extremely believable picture of countries on the brink of war. The characters feel genuine. I could picture similar characters we have in government currently. This style of writing made the characters feel authentic. The story also creates a very interesting picture of what it means to be an Eskimo in a remote village in modern times. I don’t know if the author is from the area or just did his research, but the picture he paints is engaging.
The author also plays heavily on the past conflicts between the United States and Russia as a predominant theme. For a story that has been explored too many times to count, Hawksley finds a way to make it current and interesting. Another interesting theme he explores is man versus nature. While engaged in battle, Ozenna has to be very careful that he always maintains a deep respect for Mother Nature in the harsh Alaskan climate. There are many perilous moments in the story where one wrong move could literally mean the difference between life and death in the unwelcoming environment.
I gave the book a 4. It kept me engaged. I never tired of the action. The writing was good. The story was intriguing. The characters were very human as their complicated and conflicted natures were presented. If you enjoy political intrigue and non-stop action, then this book will keep you turning the pages deep into the night.
The characters are very memorable. Rake Ozenna is the soldier, a native of Little Diomede, returning for a personal trip. He brings along his fiancée, Dr. Carrie Walker. They met in war and together, the soldier and the doctor will make an excellent team for what they will soon face. Rake’s adoptive parents, Henry and Joan let them know that they have a young girl in early labor. It is not going well and they need help. The couple and the people on Little Diomede soon find themselves as pawns in the middle of a serious political battle.
Meanwhile, in D.C., the British ambassador, Stephanie Lucas is doing her best to maintain peace, while also dealing with the fast-approaching inauguration of a hotheaded president. She also knows Dr. Carrie Walker and a few of the “bad guys” as well.
The author creates an extremely believable picture of countries on the brink of war. The characters feel genuine. I could picture similar characters we have in government currently. This style of writing made the characters feel authentic. The story also creates a very interesting picture of what it means to be an Eskimo in a remote village in modern times. I don’t know if the author is from the area or just did his research, but the picture he paints is engaging.
The author also plays heavily on the past conflicts between the United States and Russia as a predominant theme. For a story that has been explored too many times to count, Hawksley finds a way to make it current and interesting. Another interesting theme he explores is man versus nature. While engaged in battle, Ozenna has to be very careful that he always maintains a deep respect for Mother Nature in the harsh Alaskan climate. There are many perilous moments in the story where one wrong move could literally mean the difference between life and death in the unwelcoming environment.
I gave the book a 4. It kept me engaged. I never tired of the action. The writing was good. The story was intriguing. The characters were very human as their complicated and conflicted natures were presented. If you enjoy political intrigue and non-stop action, then this book will keep you turning the pages deep into the night.
June 24, 2018
Intensity, high-octane and thrilling are just a few of the words that should be used to describe Humphrey Hawksley’s Man on Ice: Russia vs the USA – In Alaska. This political thriller covers more than the tense relationships between the USA and the rest of the world: it gives readers human faces and buy-in to the threat of a northern invasion by Russia. Our protagonist, Rake Ozenna, is a soldier from Alaska who is returning with his fiancé to the island where he was born and raised. It is in this very place that a medical emergency becomes a gateway for Russia to take back what they claim is theirs. In a mere 48 hours a new president will be inaugurated and Rake needs to wrap up this invasion before it becomes full-blown war.
It can be hard for readers who are unfamiliar with politics to truly enjoy a political thriller. There are so many names, so many relationships and positions that need to be remembered in order to realize who is on which side. Hawksley makes it easy for readers of all genres to buy into his story. While the political strife is the meat of the book, the human relationships and the bonds they share with each other are the trimmings. There are no monsters for the sake of being monsters in this book: even the most reviled characters have a human story to them. Navigating the mess of human relationships is not an easy task, yet Hawksley does it with respect and ease.
The action is fast-paced and there is never a dull moment. Hawksley has done his research about live in northern Alaska and pays tribute to the Eskimos who live there. He does this in a respectful and thoughtful manner. In doing so, he not only honors their lifestyle and traditions, but he also imparts a sort of lesson to readers about the culture of those living in the north. This is an example of excellent writing as some authors will do basic research and risk offending an entire culture before taking the time Hawksley has done to ensure that he is representing the people and the island accurately.
The actual combat is high energy without being over the top. The adrenaline our characters face can be felt off the page and readers will find themselves invested in the outcome of the battles. Each shot, scuffle and brawl has its place. Nothing is overdone and there are no deaths without purpose. A very delicate balance to find within this genre.
An action-packed political thriller is what readers are going to find in Humphrey Hawksley’s Man on Ice: Russia vs the USA – In Alaska. Readers of all genres are sure to find something to love in this story. It is filled with political strife, the straining of familial bonds and eternal examples of the human condition under stress. Nothing is wasted within these pages and so much is gained. An excellent read that will give you troubles putting it down.
It can be hard for readers who are unfamiliar with politics to truly enjoy a political thriller. There are so many names, so many relationships and positions that need to be remembered in order to realize who is on which side. Hawksley makes it easy for readers of all genres to buy into his story. While the political strife is the meat of the book, the human relationships and the bonds they share with each other are the trimmings. There are no monsters for the sake of being monsters in this book: even the most reviled characters have a human story to them. Navigating the mess of human relationships is not an easy task, yet Hawksley does it with respect and ease.
The action is fast-paced and there is never a dull moment. Hawksley has done his research about live in northern Alaska and pays tribute to the Eskimos who live there. He does this in a respectful and thoughtful manner. In doing so, he not only honors their lifestyle and traditions, but he also imparts a sort of lesson to readers about the culture of those living in the north. This is an example of excellent writing as some authors will do basic research and risk offending an entire culture before taking the time Hawksley has done to ensure that he is representing the people and the island accurately.
The actual combat is high energy without being over the top. The adrenaline our characters face can be felt off the page and readers will find themselves invested in the outcome of the battles. Each shot, scuffle and brawl has its place. Nothing is overdone and there are no deaths without purpose. A very delicate balance to find within this genre.
An action-packed political thriller is what readers are going to find in Humphrey Hawksley’s Man on Ice: Russia vs the USA – In Alaska. Readers of all genres are sure to find something to love in this story. It is filled with political strife, the straining of familial bonds and eternal examples of the human condition under stress. Nothing is wasted within these pages and so much is gained. An excellent read that will give you troubles putting it down.
October 14, 2019
Captain Rake Ozenna is coming home to his tiny and remote Alaskan island after years away. He's bringing his doctor fiancee Carrie Walker with him. But before they even land they are informed of a medical emergency on the island.
This is happening two days before a presidential transition and Ozenna can't foresee how his home will become the catalyst that could cause a new world war to break out.
The outgoing and incoming presidents hate each other and the transition has been anything but easy. But all that takes a back seat when Russia, looking to re-establish themselves as a world power invades Ozenna's home of Little Diomede. Claiming it as Russian territory, it is a direct challenge to the US which they cannot allow to stand.
While the two countries rattle sabers, it becomes Rake's mission to cross the harsh environment of the Alaskan winter frontier and try to stop the potential oncoming war before it start. But with the Russians holding his fellow islanders hostage and using them as propaganda, his work is made all that much harder. Worse yet, he's being hunted by a killer that just might be more skilled that even Rake is.
In a scant 214 story pages, British author Humphrey Hawksley quickly establishes a taut and tense atmosphere both in Alaska and in Washington, D.C.. On Little Diomede, Rake hunts down the invaders in his way while Carrie is tasked with saving a newborn baby and facing down her immediate captors.
The scenes set in DC and the White House in particular are less action driven but no less intense as the sitting president looks to face down this new threat while the man about to be sworn in hammers his way into the equation as well.
Hawksley establishes that the book takes place POST-Trump, but the incoming president plays out pretty much like the real world 'president'. It might come across a little ham-fisted, but it doesn't cross over into self-parody.
I was captivated by the storytelling as 'Man on Ice' lives up the notion of being called a "page-turner". There's a strong sense of realism to each scene. You come to enjoy the characters and want to see where they are going with each successive chapter. The author does a nice job of weaving in the characters backstories without sacrificing the momentum pushing the book forward towards its gut punch of an ending.
I hadn't read any of Humphrey Hawksley's work before but I was quickly dropped in the middle of this story and felt that I experienced what the characters were experiencing right alongside them. To be that invested in a story is the mark of a well told tale. And 'Man on Ice' is definitely a book that will take you for adrenaline-fueled thrill ride.
This is happening two days before a presidential transition and Ozenna can't foresee how his home will become the catalyst that could cause a new world war to break out.
The outgoing and incoming presidents hate each other and the transition has been anything but easy. But all that takes a back seat when Russia, looking to re-establish themselves as a world power invades Ozenna's home of Little Diomede. Claiming it as Russian territory, it is a direct challenge to the US which they cannot allow to stand.
While the two countries rattle sabers, it becomes Rake's mission to cross the harsh environment of the Alaskan winter frontier and try to stop the potential oncoming war before it start. But with the Russians holding his fellow islanders hostage and using them as propaganda, his work is made all that much harder. Worse yet, he's being hunted by a killer that just might be more skilled that even Rake is.
In a scant 214 story pages, British author Humphrey Hawksley quickly establishes a taut and tense atmosphere both in Alaska and in Washington, D.C.. On Little Diomede, Rake hunts down the invaders in his way while Carrie is tasked with saving a newborn baby and facing down her immediate captors.
The scenes set in DC and the White House in particular are less action driven but no less intense as the sitting president looks to face down this new threat while the man about to be sworn in hammers his way into the equation as well.
Hawksley establishes that the book takes place POST-Trump, but the incoming president plays out pretty much like the real world 'president'. It might come across a little ham-fisted, but it doesn't cross over into self-parody.
I was captivated by the storytelling as 'Man on Ice' lives up the notion of being called a "page-turner". There's a strong sense of realism to each scene. You come to enjoy the characters and want to see where they are going with each successive chapter. The author does a nice job of weaving in the characters backstories without sacrificing the momentum pushing the book forward towards its gut punch of an ending.
I hadn't read any of Humphrey Hawksley's work before but I was quickly dropped in the middle of this story and felt that I experienced what the characters were experiencing right alongside them. To be that invested in a story is the mark of a well told tale. And 'Man on Ice' is definitely a book that will take you for adrenaline-fueled thrill ride.
June 20, 2018
There aren’t too many thrillers that choose to take risks with their premises, especially in a military ops thriller like Man on Ice, but Humphrey Hawksley is one author who does and it pays off. We find Rake Ozenna, an elite Eskimo Scout, bringing his fiancée, Carrie Walker, to his remote home on an island in the Bering Strait. Upon arriving the two are faced with a medical crisis, which pushes Carrie’s skills as a trauma surgeon to their limits. Rake’s island home and community is then caught in the political power struggle between Russia, who is already swarming in, while the United States is undergoing a tumultuous presidential transition. Ozenna attempts to save his community, but it will involve going across the ice…
Thrillers like this normally don’t capture me, but I thought Humphrey was able to craft a truly suspenseful and satisfying work. The location is absolutely unforgiving, between the cold and ice that threatens Ozenna every step of the way, along with the human elements that wish to stop him. The environmental dangers were a great addition to this story and taking place in the Bering Strait was a unique enough setting, that most readers may take away some new knowledge of this area of the US.
The political intrigue worked to some degree, although the book may have worked a little bit better without those parts since it seemed to slow the action. The maybe unconscious allusion to current events may seem on the nose to some readers, but Russia and the United States’ contentious relationship is nothing new.
The characters were pretty well rounded, despite being partial tropes of the genre. Rake and Carrie’s relationship was satisfying to witness and it carried the main core of this story along with Ozenna’s obvious connection to his home. The inclusion of Stephanie Lucas, as the British ambassador, who gives the reader an outside looking in view of the situation in the US. It’s an interesting, but great choice, since it helps bring out some of the international pressure that is felt throughout this sequence of the book.
Man on Ice reads like Tom Clancy meets The Bourne Identity. Hawksley shows that he is no stranger to the thriller genre and presents a classic and well-plotted narrative. It’s an edge of your seat read and with being under 250 or so pages, you can read it in roughly an afternoon.
Thrillers like this normally don’t capture me, but I thought Humphrey was able to craft a truly suspenseful and satisfying work. The location is absolutely unforgiving, between the cold and ice that threatens Ozenna every step of the way, along with the human elements that wish to stop him. The environmental dangers were a great addition to this story and taking place in the Bering Strait was a unique enough setting, that most readers may take away some new knowledge of this area of the US.
The political intrigue worked to some degree, although the book may have worked a little bit better without those parts since it seemed to slow the action. The maybe unconscious allusion to current events may seem on the nose to some readers, but Russia and the United States’ contentious relationship is nothing new.
The characters were pretty well rounded, despite being partial tropes of the genre. Rake and Carrie’s relationship was satisfying to witness and it carried the main core of this story along with Ozenna’s obvious connection to his home. The inclusion of Stephanie Lucas, as the British ambassador, who gives the reader an outside looking in view of the situation in the US. It’s an interesting, but great choice, since it helps bring out some of the international pressure that is felt throughout this sequence of the book.
Man on Ice reads like Tom Clancy meets The Bourne Identity. Hawksley shows that he is no stranger to the thriller genre and presents a classic and well-plotted narrative. It’s an edge of your seat read and with being under 250 or so pages, you can read it in roughly an afternoon.
April 4, 2026
An icy thriller
The Alaskan landscape and its deadly weather conditions offer a unique setting for this thriller. The Eskimo background brings an interesting angle to proceedings. The Russians are the usual bad guys and there’s a race to save the world. The tension builds as our hero Rake Ozenna faces the worst dilemma of his life.
The different perspectives help to see the plot from all sides and the politics slows the pace a bit as you have to remember so many characters and the role they play. Lots of information thrown like the hail on the island mean you do have to concentrate.
The Alaskan landscape and its deadly weather conditions offer a unique setting for this thriller. The Eskimo background brings an interesting angle to proceedings. The Russians are the usual bad guys and there’s a race to save the world. The tension builds as our hero Rake Ozenna faces the worst dilemma of his life.
The different perspectives help to see the plot from all sides and the politics slows the pace a bit as you have to remember so many characters and the role they play. Lots of information thrown like the hail on the island mean you do have to concentrate.
July 21, 2018
This is a terrific read, with Hawksley effortlessly moving the action from the frozen wastes of Alaska to the White House in Washington DC. There are plenty of authors (eg Lee Child or, for that matter, Ian Fleming) who write masterfully of violence and flaunt their knowledge of military equipment. What puts Hawksley above the crowd is the skill with which he deals with politics, or more especially geopolitics. (I loved his portrayals of the incumbent and about to be inaugurated US presidents and the trade-unionist British prime minister!).
October 1, 2022
Not my usual genre of book. It took me a little while to settle into the story and really glean all the different characters and what role they played/office they were from.
That being said, the story was well written and I found myself being drawn into the action paced story. Occasionally unbelievable but a good read.
I would consider reading the next in the series but going to wait for the price to reduce a little as a bit pricey for a relatively short read.
That being said, the story was well written and I found myself being drawn into the action paced story. Occasionally unbelievable but a good read.
I would consider reading the next in the series but going to wait for the price to reduce a little as a bit pricey for a relatively short read.
June 27, 2024
If you like thrillers this fairly short novel meets the test. A nuclear war is about to be triggered on two remote islands in the Bering Strait, one Russian, and one American. While the leadership in Washington, London, and Moscow seek a solution, it is an Eskimo Scout back on his home island that may hold the key to prevention. The author has done his homework. The Washington, the Kremlin, and the Eskimo cultures are described in detail. And yes, there is a love interest as well.
April 7, 2026
A topical thriller
Recent events on the world stage have made this thriller a bit more believable than it might have been just a year or two ago. The threat from long range missiles and the forging of new alliances between world powers is now a very real threat, magnified greatly by rogue leaders with no respect for international law and diplomacy. I found the book to be well enough written and engaging although predictable.
Recent events on the world stage have made this thriller a bit more believable than it might have been just a year or two ago. The threat from long range missiles and the forging of new alliances between world powers is now a very real threat, magnified greatly by rogue leaders with no respect for international law and diplomacy. I found the book to be well enough written and engaging although predictable.
May 3, 2026
This was not as action packed as advertised, more than half of the book was politicians having boring conversations. There were a lot of sentences that didn't make sense, was there an editor?
Both Rake and Carrie felt like cardboard characters, not much depth. That Rake had a friend who murdered his wife and impregnated his own daughter was quite off-putting, that Rake defended him as a good man was just gross.
Both Rake and Carrie felt like cardboard characters, not much depth. That Rake had a friend who murdered his wife and impregnated his own daughter was quite off-putting, that Rake defended him as a good man was just gross.
November 12, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. Native Alaskans to the rescue! Rebel Russians invade Alaska! The action is non-stop and believable. If you do not think about the actual distances associated with the area then the story flows quite nicely. It is a fun read and of course the good guy wins.
January 2, 2024
This was really more of a 3-3.5. It was very fast-paced with short chapters which I really enjoyed. At the same time character development was pretty surface level and I don’t know that I cared for humanization of the father that raped his child, when his child which was central to the plot was not developed as a character at all. If you are looking for a quick, action read this fits the bill.
March 31, 2026
This is definitely the best Dystopian book I have read so far this year, excellent characterisation, couldn't put it down. Excellent plot and very believable.
In fact, I don't know why the attack itself has not already happened.
I am a fan of HH, and have yet to find a bad book he has authored.
In fact, I don't know why the attack itself has not already happened.
I am a fan of HH, and have yet to find a bad book he has authored.
May 18, 2023
Waste of time. Not so abysmally bad that I couldn't finish it, but bad enough to spare me any curiosity about the rest of Hawksley's logorrheal output. And I can use the glowing reviews of this book as a handy checklist of readers whose recommendations I can safely ignore.
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