Target Unknown

by Riccardo Forte, Elettra Pauletto (Translator)

As a deadly terrorist plot unfolds, an Israeli agent and an Italian detective must unite to prevent a catastrophic attack that could unleash chaos across Europe.

When intercepted communications reveal a chilling attack in Europe, elite Israeli operative Sara Cohen of Mossad, and DIGOS chief detective Luca Martini, find themselves on a collision course with a shadowy network of ruthless terrorists.

With the target and timing of the attack shrouded in mystery, their only hope is a captured undercover operative who holds the key to unravelling the conspiracy, but time is running out.

And, as Sara and Luca race to save the agent, they must grapple with the ethical boundaries of their mission. With the clock ticking, can they connect the dots before chaos erupts? And, what will they risk to save countless innocent lives from the brink of disaster?

820 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 24, 2026

About the author

Download the ARC of Target Unknown:

https://BookHip.com/CSFJLAS

If you enjoy the story, a short Goodreads review helps other thriller readers discover it.

Riccardo Forte was born in Turin, Italy, where he received his BA in Political Science. Next, he earned his PhD in History of the Americas from the University of Genoa and a PhD in History from El Colegio de México. Riccardo began his writing career as a historian and traveler, researching political history in America and Latin America, authoritarianism, military political culture, geopolitics, and international relations. In 2010, Riccardo moved to the United States as a research scholar at the Library of Congress, and began writing his first novel, Obiettivo Indecifrabile. He became a full-time author in 2017. His book is now available in Italian and Spanish, and the English edition will be available at the end of 2025. He is currently working on his second novel and is a member of the National Coalition of Independent Scholars. Riccardo lives in Northern Virginia, in the Washington, D.C. area, with his wife, Natalia.

Reviews

[Gloria Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This book had me wanting to t
read it continually nonstop just o find out what happened next. Can't wait for your next intriguing book

[Visionary Impart · Rating 5 out of 5]

TARGET UNKNOWN by Riccardo Forte is a gripping, high-stakes thriller that delivers relentless tension from the very first page. The partnership between Israeli operative Sara Cohen and Italian detective Luca Martini adds both emotional depth and international intrigue, making the story feel expansive and cinematic. The unfolding terrorist plot is cleverly layered, keeping the target and motives just out of reach long enough to sustain suspense. Forte balances pulse-pounding action with thought-provoking ethical dilemmas, creating a narrative that’s as intelligent as it is exciting. A fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat read for fans of global espionage thrillers.

[Tofig Husein-zadeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this novel on my friend's kindle after he recommended it to me. Novels of this genre are usually a pleasant read for me but I particularly enjoyed this one because the story develops gradually in an organic way. Additionally, as a reader you can see how erudite the author is about these realms and processes. In general, I wish to see more new works of spy fiction from Italian writers today.

[Edin Kapić · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great thriller by an Italian author Riccardo Forte. It revolves around a terrorist attack somewhere in Europe, with many memorable characters and a growing tension as you progress through the book. Well-researched, it transports you into the action. The only downside was the sheer size of the book...it doesn't detract from enjoying it, you just have to be ready for the time commitment. It's a time well spent!

[Philip Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping

A really good gripping read. Very international in nature. Lots of detail and real espionage type plot. A vast array of different characters. Excellent

[Murray Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tracking a terrorist

Tracking a terrorist through many countries can be quite difficult and this book follows all of the steps in details.

[Natalia Silva Prada · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written, deeply human story.
I received an ARC of this novel and was completely swept away. The writing is powerful, the tension unfolds with masterful pacing, and I found myself racing through the pages, deeply attached to the characters and their fate. A stunning debut from an author who truly deserves attention. Highly recommended.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a terrorist attack being hatched to bring Europe to its knees. They will be brought together to try to stop them before the attack can happen. A captured undercover agent is their only hope to stop it before it can happen. See if they stop it before it brings terror to Europe
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great fast paced thriller