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The Congo Directive
In The Congo Directive, CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer Jon Smith and his teammate, retired SASR Sergeant Major Angus Hawkins, soar to new heights in a thrilling out-of-this-world adventure.
It’s July 4th, Independence Day, and while the International Space Station orbits Earth at 17,500 miles an hour, Mission Control Center- Houston (MCC-H) relays a video call from the President that is broadcast nationwide to wish the station’s commander, Captain Edwin Li, US Navy, a happy birthday and to announce his promotion to rear admiral. Surrounded by his crew, including Colonel Cindy Rider of the US Space Force and Russian Cosmonauts, Colonel Vova Yevgeni and Dmitriy Alexsandr, Captain Li thanks the President, and they celebrate with cupcakes.
An hour and a half later, all contact with the ISS is lost. While Mission Control attempts to reestablish contact, Captain Li reports shocking news via handheld laser to amateur observers on the ground on the dark side of the orbit. The message
MCC-H, this is Li. Cosmonauts murdered Cindy. I am barricaded on the US side of the ISS. Comms and life support systems are inop. They are flooding the station with oxygen. Currently, 73% and rising. I suspect they are going to destroy the station. I am unable to reach the Dragon. Please advise if able.
NASA liaison in Moscow confronts the Russians. They deny any wrongdoing. Next, ground observers report seeing the Soyuz escape capsule undock from the ISS before it explodes. NASA calculates it will land somewhere in the jungles of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Outraged by the blatant betrayal and sabotage, POTUS recalls CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer Jon Smith and his teammate, retired SASR Sergeant Major Angus Hawkins, from their well-deserved vacation to hunt down the perpetrators as fast as possible and eliminate them.
Soon after hitting the ground, Jon and Angie discover a far more sinister scheme that could imperil a billion people in the Western World. American and Allied Forces are quickly redirected to support their mission.
THE CONGO DIRECTIVE is the fourth standalone book in the Jon Smith series of action-packed military/espionage thrillers. It’s perfect for fans of Mark Greaney, Brad Taylor, Tom Clancy, Brad Thor, and Jason Kasper. If you like their books, then you'll love THE CONGO DIRECTIVE. It combines all their best traits in a captivating thriller pulled right from today’s current events.
Buy THE CONGO DIRECTIVE today and get a front row seat to this action-packed thrill-ride!
It’s July 4th, Independence Day, and while the International Space Station orbits Earth at 17,500 miles an hour, Mission Control Center- Houston (MCC-H) relays a video call from the President that is broadcast nationwide to wish the station’s commander, Captain Edwin Li, US Navy, a happy birthday and to announce his promotion to rear admiral. Surrounded by his crew, including Colonel Cindy Rider of the US Space Force and Russian Cosmonauts, Colonel Vova Yevgeni and Dmitriy Alexsandr, Captain Li thanks the President, and they celebrate with cupcakes.
An hour and a half later, all contact with the ISS is lost. While Mission Control attempts to reestablish contact, Captain Li reports shocking news via handheld laser to amateur observers on the ground on the dark side of the orbit. The message
MCC-H, this is Li. Cosmonauts murdered Cindy. I am barricaded on the US side of the ISS. Comms and life support systems are inop. They are flooding the station with oxygen. Currently, 73% and rising. I suspect they are going to destroy the station. I am unable to reach the Dragon. Please advise if able.
NASA liaison in Moscow confronts the Russians. They deny any wrongdoing. Next, ground observers report seeing the Soyuz escape capsule undock from the ISS before it explodes. NASA calculates it will land somewhere in the jungles of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Outraged by the blatant betrayal and sabotage, POTUS recalls CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer Jon Smith and his teammate, retired SASR Sergeant Major Angus Hawkins, from their well-deserved vacation to hunt down the perpetrators as fast as possible and eliminate them.
Soon after hitting the ground, Jon and Angie discover a far more sinister scheme that could imperil a billion people in the Western World. American and Allied Forces are quickly redirected to support their mission.
THE CONGO DIRECTIVE is the fourth standalone book in the Jon Smith series of action-packed military/espionage thrillers. It’s perfect for fans of Mark Greaney, Brad Taylor, Tom Clancy, Brad Thor, and Jason Kasper. If you like their books, then you'll love THE CONGO DIRECTIVE. It combines all their best traits in a captivating thriller pulled right from today’s current events.
Buy THE CONGO DIRECTIVE today and get a front row seat to this action-packed thrill-ride!
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 8, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 13, 2026
Recently, I had the opportunity to jump in and become part of the ARC team for one of this group's members, Bob Asher, and the fourth book in his "Jon Smith" Series. The author informed me that his latest offering is scheduled for release within the next two to three weeks.
For the uninitiated, Bob Asher's "Jon Smith" book series is a collection of military and espionage thrillers that follow CIA Paramilitary Officer Jon Smith and his teammate Angus "Angie" Hawkins on high-stakes missions around the world.
These books are fast-paced, standalone novels pulled from contemporary headlines, featuring high-stakes action and global threats. Jon Smith is portrayed as an honorable and good man with a strong moral compass, often putting himself in harm's way to save others. A recurring element is the close bond and teamwork between Jon and his best friend and former SAS Sergeant Major, Angie Hawkins, who is always by his side during perilous missions.
Plot Summary: The Congo Directive is a military/espionage thriller centered around Captain Jon Smith, a former Navy SEAL turned CIA operative, who is on a mission to track down Captain Edmond Li, a former Navy SEAL and astronaut turned traitor. Li has developed a bioweapon targeting Caucasians and is attempting to escape to China. The story spans multiple locations, including the International Space Station, the Congo, India, and the Himalayas, culminating in a high-stakes confrontation in the mountains.
On my self-determined five-star scale, this is one of those rare books that are worthy of a five-star rating, with its great plot and storyline and the way that Asher shows his knowledge of military weapons. I believe that those aficionados of the genre (those who enjoy the writings of authors such as Lee Child, Brad Taylor, Jason Kasper, J.T. Porter, and Alex Shaw) will quickly come to enjoy the writings of Bob Asher, as it focuses on similar themes of high-stakes missions and compelling protagonists.
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents' worth.
For the uninitiated, Bob Asher's "Jon Smith" book series is a collection of military and espionage thrillers that follow CIA Paramilitary Officer Jon Smith and his teammate Angus "Angie" Hawkins on high-stakes missions around the world.
These books are fast-paced, standalone novels pulled from contemporary headlines, featuring high-stakes action and global threats. Jon Smith is portrayed as an honorable and good man with a strong moral compass, often putting himself in harm's way to save others. A recurring element is the close bond and teamwork between Jon and his best friend and former SAS Sergeant Major, Angie Hawkins, who is always by his side during perilous missions.
Plot Summary: The Congo Directive is a military/espionage thriller centered around Captain Jon Smith, a former Navy SEAL turned CIA operative, who is on a mission to track down Captain Edmond Li, a former Navy SEAL and astronaut turned traitor. Li has developed a bioweapon targeting Caucasians and is attempting to escape to China. The story spans multiple locations, including the International Space Station, the Congo, India, and the Himalayas, culminating in a high-stakes confrontation in the mountains.
On my self-determined five-star scale, this is one of those rare books that are worthy of a five-star rating, with its great plot and storyline and the way that Asher shows his knowledge of military weapons. I believe that those aficionados of the genre (those who enjoy the writings of authors such as Lee Child, Brad Taylor, Jason Kasper, J.T. Porter, and Alex Shaw) will quickly come to enjoy the writings of Bob Asher, as it focuses on similar themes of high-stakes missions and compelling protagonists.
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents' worth.
January 19, 2026
The fourth book in the Jon Smith series has he and Angie on an exciting chase starting in the Congo. A former SEAL who was a hero to Smith is now a traitor attempting to deliver a weapon to the Chinese that will only kill Caucasians.
Another phenomenal adventure through the jungle of the Congo and the mountains of northern lndia.
Another phenomenal adventure through the jungle of the Congo and the mountains of northern lndia.
December 18, 2025
Jon Smith (and Angus) are firmly in the top tier of literary pipe-hitters. He is up there with the best in the genre, and better in many ways.
The plot and premise barely feel like fiction. Bob Asher weaves in real-life people and situations that adds layers to the plausibility of his plot lines that make the stories feel more than speculative fiction.
The story seems straight-forward at first until the first twist that hits like a tomahawk through the kitchen window.
From there, Jon and Angie are relentless in chasing their quarry across two continents. In a similar situation, others might be hesitant in dealing with this new threat but - not Jon. He continues to be relentless and steadfast in risking life and limb to bring his enemies to swift justice.
I eagerly await Bob's next adventure he has for us. You should, too!
The plot and premise barely feel like fiction. Bob Asher weaves in real-life people and situations that adds layers to the plausibility of his plot lines that make the stories feel more than speculative fiction.
The story seems straight-forward at first until the first twist that hits like a tomahawk through the kitchen window.
From there, Jon and Angie are relentless in chasing their quarry across two continents. In a similar situation, others might be hesitant in dealing with this new threat but - not Jon. He continues to be relentless and steadfast in risking life and limb to bring his enemies to swift justice.
I eagerly await Bob's next adventure he has for us. You should, too!
June 23, 2026
The Congo Directive by Bob Asher is a gripping military espionage thriller packed with high-stakes action, international intrigue, and a race against time to prevent a global catastrophe.
The story delivers a thrilling combination of space-based danger, covert operations, political tension, and elite intelligence missions. Through Jon Smith and Angus Hawkins, readers are drawn into a fast-paced world where loyalty, strategy, and courage are tested at every turn.
With its cinematic pacing and complex mission-driven plot, The Congo Directive offers fans of military thrillers and espionage fiction an exciting adventure filled with unexpected twists, dangerous enemies, and a compelling fight to protect millions of lives.
A strong choice for readers who enjoy intense action, intelligence operations, and stories where the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
The story delivers a thrilling combination of space-based danger, covert operations, political tension, and elite intelligence missions. Through Jon Smith and Angus Hawkins, readers are drawn into a fast-paced world where loyalty, strategy, and courage are tested at every turn.
With its cinematic pacing and complex mission-driven plot, The Congo Directive offers fans of military thrillers and espionage fiction an exciting adventure filled with unexpected twists, dangerous enemies, and a compelling fight to protect millions of lives.
A strong choice for readers who enjoy intense action, intelligence operations, and stories where the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
December 13, 2025
The Congo Directive is a hard-charging military thriller that delivers nonstop momentum and striking realism. The action is sharp, the pacing relentless, and the operational detail feels authoritative without slowing the story down. From elite ground combat to high-stakes global maneuvering, every chapter pushes the tension higher.
The antagonist is cold, intelligent, and genuinely unsettling, giving the chase real weight and urgency. Fans of Tom Clancy, Jack Carr, and Mark Greaney will feel right at home.
A fast, cinematic read that’s difficult to put down. Highly recommended for anyone who wants authentic military action, global intrigue, and nonstop tension.
The antagonist is cold, intelligent, and genuinely unsettling, giving the chase real weight and urgency. Fans of Tom Clancy, Jack Carr, and Mark Greaney will feel right at home.
A fast, cinematic read that’s difficult to put down. Highly recommended for anyone who wants authentic military action, global intrigue, and nonstop tension.
December 30, 2025
Thrilling and action packed
What do you get when you involve Astronauts, rockets, bioweapons, the Chinese and Commander Jon Smith. Well you get an action packed adventure that spans from the International Space Station to Africa and India.
Mr. Bob Asher gave me an early ARC of the novel and he does it again combining the right amount of action and thrilling suspense. I'm eager to see what's next for our cast of characters. 9/10 for me.
What do you get when you involve Astronauts, rockets, bioweapons, the Chinese and Commander Jon Smith. Well you get an action packed adventure that spans from the International Space Station to Africa and India.
Mr. Bob Asher gave me an early ARC of the novel and he does it again combining the right amount of action and thrilling suspense. I'm eager to see what's next for our cast of characters. 9/10 for me.
January 19, 2026
A terrific ending to an exciting series
All 4 of this Jon Smith series were spectacular in their own way, as only Bob Asher can create. With so many twists and turns, the Houdini villain kept surprising us chapter after chapter in this finale . without giving anything away I will say it was a well fought battle from book 1 to 4.
All 4 of this Jon Smith series were spectacular in their own way, as only Bob Asher can create. With so many twists and turns, the Houdini villain kept surprising us chapter after chapter in this finale . without giving anything away I will say it was a well fought battle from book 1 to 4.
February 13, 2026
Action packed
I really enjoyed this book and all the other books in the Jon Smith series. A lot of intense action with some humor thrown in. It is just as good as the Grey Man series and the Jack Ryan Jr series.
I really enjoyed this book and all the other books in the Jon Smith series. A lot of intense action with some humor thrown in. It is just as good as the Grey Man series and the Jack Ryan Jr series.
February 25, 2026
Best One In The Series!
This book had non stop action from beginning to end! I love all of Bob Asher's books but this one is my favorite. Read it in only a few days, as I couldn't put it down.
This book had non stop action from beginning to end! I love all of Bob Asher's books but this one is my favorite. Read it in only a few days, as I couldn't put it down.
April 29, 2026
outstanding series
I enjoyed the fact that I could get away and just relax . The action was intense as it moved from location to location. I really like the camaraderie between Jon and Angie. The book also draws on the friendships developed over the years with their teammates.
I enjoyed the fact that I could get away and just relax . The action was intense as it moved from location to location. I really like the camaraderie between Jon and Angie. The book also draws on the friendships developed over the years with their teammates.
May 23, 2026
Great Action
Jon, saves the day ! Lots of twists and turns. Action packed as Jon and his team set out to save the world. Definitely a guy book like the rest of his books. Thanks Bob.
Jon, saves the day ! Lots of twists and turns. Action packed as Jon and his team set out to save the world. Definitely a guy book like the rest of his books. Thanks Bob.
May 30, 2026
A great read! This was a terrific adventure with lots of twists & turns throughout. The action was nonstop as Jon Smith & Angie Hawkins chased down a surprise saboteur in the Congo & pursues him all the way to India. With plenty of action & humor throughout, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
December 28, 2025
Action action action
Action action action, nonstop from beginning to end. Hi tech weapons and tactics. Some unbelievable coincidences. Likeable characters all through
Action action action, nonstop from beginning to end. Hi tech weapons and tactics. Some unbelievable coincidences. Likeable characters all through
February 20, 2026
Gotta read
Bob Asher is great. Page burning action. none ugh and his crew of SOG operators getting it done.
Great reads!!!!
Bob Asher is great. Page burning action. none ugh and his crew of SOG operators getting it done.
Great reads!!!!
May 25, 2026
Great Book.
January 19, 2026
Hey Guys, it’s me again, yes with the second review of the day/night depending upon your country. This time I’d like to thank Bob Asher for the ARC of his Jon Smith #4 The Congo Directive, and this is my honest review of the novel.
When a 4th of July celebration with the International Space Station has gone well, everything looks great, but if there is no shock factor in the premise itself, then the novel will be a slow burn. No, that’s not the way Bob rolls, as Captain Edwin Li, a US astronaut whose birthday was celebrated with the President just a scant time before, calls back frantically stating that the Russian cosmonauts have killed his partner and are trying to fill the ISS with oxygen to get access to the top-secret weapon the US was developing and destroy the evidence altogether.
From here, the story blew all the hell kingdom to come by making our dynamic duo, CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer Jon Smith and his teammate, retired SASR Sergeant Major Angus Hawkins, come out from their well-deserved vacation and thrust them into a race not only against time but also against wild animals, a multitude of terror organizations, and even a natural calamity that literally has everything in between.
More than our heroes, the villain with his twisted agenda fueled by his personal vengeance tries to destroy everything in his way to achieve his goal. Trust me, the path was one of the bloodiest written by Bob in all of his four books so far.
Meanwhile, Jon and Angus battle with their insurmountable odds and unflinching focus to destroy the person responsible for this chaos as well as prevent that weapon from falling into the hands of the enemy country. Non-stop action set pieces back to back will leave you exhausted to the core, and you’ll be astonished at the end when you realize how, in a very little amount of time, this much action and destruction has been done.
The story literally goes around the world from America to Africa and ends in my country, India. Just a small spoiler (sorry Bob, I can’t help it), I think this is one of the first novels that I’ve read so far that has the Special Group (SG) of India. The name may sound vague, but this is like a counterpart to the CIA’s SAD or SAC and traces back its roots to the 1962 Sino-Indian War, and from my POV in 2025, many novels from prominent series have been involved in India, but this one is the best, at least from the novels I’ve read, because the action set piece in India was taken to the next level, especially the climatic set piece.
So guys, if you’re yet to start this series, please go and start it, and you’ll definitely feel the adrenaline pump while reading this series. Once again, thanks for the ARC, Bob Asher, and sorry for the late review.
When a 4th of July celebration with the International Space Station has gone well, everything looks great, but if there is no shock factor in the premise itself, then the novel will be a slow burn. No, that’s not the way Bob rolls, as Captain Edwin Li, a US astronaut whose birthday was celebrated with the President just a scant time before, calls back frantically stating that the Russian cosmonauts have killed his partner and are trying to fill the ISS with oxygen to get access to the top-secret weapon the US was developing and destroy the evidence altogether.
From here, the story blew all the hell kingdom to come by making our dynamic duo, CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer Jon Smith and his teammate, retired SASR Sergeant Major Angus Hawkins, come out from their well-deserved vacation and thrust them into a race not only against time but also against wild animals, a multitude of terror organizations, and even a natural calamity that literally has everything in between.
More than our heroes, the villain with his twisted agenda fueled by his personal vengeance tries to destroy everything in his way to achieve his goal. Trust me, the path was one of the bloodiest written by Bob in all of his four books so far.
Meanwhile, Jon and Angus battle with their insurmountable odds and unflinching focus to destroy the person responsible for this chaos as well as prevent that weapon from falling into the hands of the enemy country. Non-stop action set pieces back to back will leave you exhausted to the core, and you’ll be astonished at the end when you realize how, in a very little amount of time, this much action and destruction has been done.
The story literally goes around the world from America to Africa and ends in my country, India. Just a small spoiler (sorry Bob, I can’t help it), I think this is one of the first novels that I’ve read so far that has the Special Group (SG) of India. The name may sound vague, but this is like a counterpart to the CIA’s SAD or SAC and traces back its roots to the 1962 Sino-Indian War, and from my POV in 2025, many novels from prominent series have been involved in India, but this one is the best, at least from the novels I’ve read, because the action set piece in India was taken to the next level, especially the climatic set piece.
So guys, if you’re yet to start this series, please go and start it, and you’ll definitely feel the adrenaline pump while reading this series. Once again, thanks for the ARC, Bob Asher, and sorry for the late review.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews