First, I'd like to say that I received a free copy via Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. Not reading book 1, I thought the story started slow and I found myself confused at times when the story changed to a different sub plot, especially when introducing the mathematician and goings on with him in the hospital. However, once the mission started, it has hard to put the book down. The team, led by Burroughs Rice, venture deep into the African to rescue 400 girls who were kidnapped by a terrorist group, and used as collateral and as forced labor in mines. The story is plausible as much of the terrorist force soldiers comprised of young boys averaging 10 years old; they were well-trained and held their own against the special team of ex-Seals - such is life today in Africa.
The billionaire lady is a germ phobic and is only interested in building her empire and getting her hands into the pockets of governmental officials around the world. She blackmails everyone, threatening death of a loved one, to get her way. She did this with Rice - kidnapping Britt in order for Rice to take on the mission. Those doing her bidding are simply disposable pawns. Rice and his team find themselves in precarious situations - seeming impossible to escape from - but find a way to succeed. Being a claustrophobic, I had trouble getting through the part where Rice was trapped in a collapsed tunnel within one of the mines.
The author does an excellent job at developing and portraying the villains in the story - making me loathe them throughout the story. The biggest surprise was the paralyzed mathematician...I found myself in awe of some of the stuff he was able to accomplish and found that I was cheering him along.
If you are interested in Black Op missions, then "On The Black: Africa" is for you and highly recommended. Great job Mr. Cage! I look forward to more of your stories.
John Podlaski, author
"Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel" and "When Can I Stop Running?"