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Covert-One #3
The Paris Option
For thirty years, Robert Ludlum's novels have set the standard for the finest in international intrigue and suspense. With an unbroken string of bestsellers in almost every country in the world, his books have been enjoyed by hundreds of millions of readers and are widely acknowledged as classics in the field. Now, after the bestselling Covert-One novels The Hades Factor and The Cassandra Compact , comes the third thrilling novel in the series.
A fiery explosion in the dark of night shatters one of the laboratory buildings in Paris's esteemed Pasteur Institute. Among the dead is Emile Chambord, one of the leaders in the global race to create a molecular or DNA computer. Unfortunately, Professor Chambord kept the details of his work secret, and his notes were apparently destroyed in either the bomb blast or the raging fire that followed. Under the cover of visiting his friend Marty Zellerbach, who was severely injured when the Pasteur lab was destroyed, Covert-One agent Jon Smith flies to Paris to search for the connection between the Pasteur explosion and the forces now wielding the computer. Following a trail that leads him across two continents, Smith uncovers a web of deception that threatens to wreck havoc and forever reshape the world.
A fiery explosion in the dark of night shatters one of the laboratory buildings in Paris's esteemed Pasteur Institute. Among the dead is Emile Chambord, one of the leaders in the global race to create a molecular or DNA computer. Unfortunately, Professor Chambord kept the details of his work secret, and his notes were apparently destroyed in either the bomb blast or the raging fire that followed. Under the cover of visiting his friend Marty Zellerbach, who was severely injured when the Pasteur lab was destroyed, Covert-One agent Jon Smith flies to Paris to search for the connection between the Pasteur explosion and the forces now wielding the computer. Following a trail that leads him across two continents, Smith uncovers a web of deception that threatens to wreck havoc and forever reshape the world.
512 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 3, 2002
262 people are currently reading
2603 people want to read
About the author
Robert Ludlum
630 books5,264 followersRobert Ludlum was the author of twenty-seven novels, each one a New York Times bestseller. There are more than 210 million of his books in print, and they have been translated into thirty-two languages. He is the author of The Scarlatti Inheritance, The Chancellor Manuscript, and the Jason Bourne series--The Bourne Identity, The Bourne Supremacy, and The Bourne Ultimatum--among others. Mr. Ludlum passed away in March, 2001. Ludlum also published books under the pseudonyms Jonathan Ryder and Michael Shepherd.
Some of Ludlum's novels have been made into films and mini-series, including The Osterman Weekend, The Holcroft Covenant, The Apocalypse Watch, The Bourne Identity, The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum. A non-Ludlum book supposedly inspired by his unused notes, Covert One: The Hades Factor, has also been made into a mini-series. The Bourne movies, starring Matt Damon in the title role, have been commercially and critically successful (The Bourne Ultimatum won three Academy Awards in 2008), although the story lines depart significantly from the source material.
Some of Ludlum's novels have been made into films and mini-series, including The Osterman Weekend, The Holcroft Covenant, The Apocalypse Watch, The Bourne Identity, The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum. A non-Ludlum book supposedly inspired by his unused notes, Covert One: The Hades Factor, has also been made into a mini-series. The Bourne movies, starring Matt Damon in the title role, have been commercially and critically successful (The Bourne Ultimatum won three Academy Awards in 2008), although the story lines depart significantly from the source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
January 27, 2020
This is a pretty good story. Certainly this is not the best Ludlum I have read, but quite good and interesting. Although I doubt that I would remember much of it in a while.
This story has some strong techno-thriller elements. I definitely liked it. Gives the whole book some freshness. The whole thing with the molecular computer distinguishes this book a bit from others in this genre.
And, of course, we’ve got here a fairly typical example of global conspiracy and the problem of terrorism. But I admit that it is not as biased as in some other books I have read. So I consider the solution adopted in this book to be very good. Especially since the book was written in 2002, when, for obvious reasons, the motive of Islamic terrorists was very popular.
I am also positively surprised by the political intrigue. I have a degree in European studies, so these topics are of particular interest to me. Views on the military dimension of the European Union in the early 2000s are presented quite accurately, although perhaps a bit clichéd. This was the period when the foundations of the Common Security and Defense Policy were being laid. Although Great Britain was not so opposed to the idea of strengthening this form of cooperation, as presented in the book. I am very happy that the authors decided to make it such an important element of this book. It also often happens that American authors have difficulty understanding the dynamics of the European Union's functioning, or politics in Europe in general. They did quite well here, although you can still clearly see the American way of thinking about international politics in some parts.
This is a solid story with a well thought out plot and good characters. Nothing to remember for years but definitely good entertainment.
This story has some strong techno-thriller elements. I definitely liked it. Gives the whole book some freshness. The whole thing with the molecular computer distinguishes this book a bit from others in this genre.
And, of course, we’ve got here a fairly typical example of global conspiracy and the problem of terrorism. But I admit that it is not as biased as in some other books I have read. So I consider the solution adopted in this book to be very good. Especially since the book was written in 2002, when, for obvious reasons, the motive of Islamic terrorists was very popular.
I am also positively surprised by the political intrigue. I have a degree in European studies, so these topics are of particular interest to me. Views on the military dimension of the European Union in the early 2000s are presented quite accurately, although perhaps a bit clichéd. This was the period when the foundations of the Common Security and Defense Policy were being laid. Although Great Britain was not so opposed to the idea of strengthening this form of cooperation, as presented in the book. I am very happy that the authors decided to make it such an important element of this book. It also often happens that American authors have difficulty understanding the dynamics of the European Union's functioning, or politics in Europe in general. They did quite well here, although you can still clearly see the American way of thinking about international politics in some parts.
This is a solid story with a well thought out plot and good characters. Nothing to remember for years but definitely good entertainment.
November 16, 2024
My least liked story. Hard to get involved. Hopefully the Covert-One #4 (when I get to it) will have a little more that draws me into it.
October 13, 2012
I couldn't find Covert-One #2 in our local bookstores. So, from Covert-One #1 that I read last year, I jumped to Covert-One #3. Anyway, just like in any of the thrillers where there is one recurring character, that of an agent or spy, each part can stand alone.
From his resignation from United States Army Military Research Institute for Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Nathaniel Frederick Klein approaches the star of this series, doctor and army John Smith to join the secret army organization in the US called Covert-One. Because Smith is still licking his wounds for his failure to save his fiancee's life from the virus, he agrees to join the secret organization. Had he refused, there would not have been this series. Sorry for stating the obvious.
If Covert-One #1 is about a viral strain that can kill half of the world in few seconds, Covert-One #3 is about a DNA strain that can control virtually all computers in the world. Nice theme for a thriller, right? A dream come true for all power-hungry people in the world and a nightmare to the IT professionals like me. Something like when we prepared fro the Y2K in 1999 up to the stroke of the first few minutes of 2000. We were all holding our breath running some transactions in our ERP system. However, unlike the Y2K, there is a group composed of the perpetrators for this virus and they are all in Paris. That's why this novel is called The Paris Option. Then later in the story, it is revealed that these Parisians are planning to use these DNA molecules to stage a nuclear attack to the occupants of the White House - an attack larger and grander than the 9/11. Whoa.
This is just what I can say about this book: extremely unbelievable plot but a sufficiently engaging and an outrageously entertaining read.
Definitely a must-read for all Robert Ludlum fans (like me).
From his resignation from United States Army Military Research Institute for Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Nathaniel Frederick Klein approaches the star of this series, doctor and army John Smith to join the secret army organization in the US called Covert-One. Because Smith is still licking his wounds for his failure to save his fiancee's life from the virus, he agrees to join the secret organization. Had he refused, there would not have been this series. Sorry for stating the obvious.
If Covert-One #1 is about a viral strain that can kill half of the world in few seconds, Covert-One #3 is about a DNA strain that can control virtually all computers in the world. Nice theme for a thriller, right? A dream come true for all power-hungry people in the world and a nightmare to the IT professionals like me. Something like when we prepared fro the Y2K in 1999 up to the stroke of the first few minutes of 2000. We were all holding our breath running some transactions in our ERP system. However, unlike the Y2K, there is a group composed of the perpetrators for this virus and they are all in Paris. That's why this novel is called The Paris Option. Then later in the story, it is revealed that these Parisians are planning to use these DNA molecules to stage a nuclear attack to the occupants of the White House - an attack larger and grander than the 9/11. Whoa.
This is just what I can say about this book: extremely unbelievable plot but a sufficiently engaging and an outrageously entertaining read.
Definitely a must-read for all Robert Ludlum fans (like me).
April 5, 2014
Simply put, "The Paris Option" is no option at all. It's published under the name of Mr. Robert Ludlum who gave us masterpieces like Bourne Identity, Chancellor Manuscript and Holcroft Covenant. I am 100% sure that Mr. Ludlum was not alive before this book was completed. It's such a disappointment. There is no signature of Mr. Ludlum through hints of rich suspense, page turning pace, international intrigue and taut action. The plot is absolutely "run-of-the-mill". It's predictable to the point where you can actually start wondering that you are a soothsayer. The book is full of inconsistencies and establishes no credibility whatsoever. If I would have written an essay in school with no word restrictions, I would have probably come up with something a bit better than this. The protagonists are not vulnerable. Fusillades of bullets don't hit them fatally, bombs can't touch them and well they can simply walk through everything without getting caught. There is no high point in the book. And I literally took 3 days just to finish the last 100 pages of the book. It's just so boring and predictable. You can safely avoid this book.
There should be law against using the name of a Master Story Teller to deliver such crap. Mr. Robert Ludlum's Estate should also be restricted from diluting quality of content for the sake of greenbacks.
There should be law against using the name of a Master Story Teller to deliver such crap. Mr. Robert Ludlum's Estate should also be restricted from diluting quality of content for the sake of greenbacks.
April 24, 2011
It's been awhile since I've read a Ludlum book. "The Paris Option" was a good pick. The characters were somewhat predictable but well developed. The plot is full of twists and turns with much of it plausible, except of course the uncanny ability the heroes have to escape certain death multiple times. One thing I liked about the interaction between the characters is the complete lack of romantic drama! While there is some slight romantic tension between two of the characters it is not distracting. Finally, a story that doesn't involve the girl falling for the guy! Now I remember why I liked Ludlum.
April 11, 2014
Well I just finished it yesterday. And the only one word to describe this race against the time thriller is spell-bound!
I do not know from where mr Ludlum draws his inspiration but all his work has one thing in common,they are simply un-putdownable. Just mesmerised with the pace of the book.
Once again our protagonist Jon Smith is given a task almost impossible to fulfil and failing to which may cause unprecedented catastrophe to mankind. The plot outline is more or less same to that of his previous covert works. But once again his prose and pace makes all the difference.
Must read to all those who prefer high octane sci-fy thriller.
I do not know from where mr Ludlum draws his inspiration but all his work has one thing in common,they are simply un-putdownable. Just mesmerised with the pace of the book.
Once again our protagonist Jon Smith is given a task almost impossible to fulfil and failing to which may cause unprecedented catastrophe to mankind. The plot outline is more or less same to that of his previous covert works. But once again his prose and pace makes all the difference.
Must read to all those who prefer high octane sci-fy thriller.
May 14, 2020
I loved it nicely written 5 stars
July 29, 2018
A fiery explosion in the dead of night shatters one of the Lab Buildings in Paris's
esteemed Pasteur Institute. Among the dead is Emil Chambord a leader in the global
race to create a DNA computer. Unfortunately Prof. Chambord kept all the details of his
work secret and his notes were destroyed in the fire following the blast. Under cover of
visiting his friend Marty Zellerback who was injured in the blast Covert-One agent
Jon Smith flies to Paris to search for the connection between the explosion and the forces
now wielding the computer. Following a trail across two continents Smith uncovers a web
of deception that threatens to wreck havoc and forever reshape the world. Not to bad of
a story. Igave it a 3.5
November 10, 2023
le mot juste:
p38: He stumbled and crashed to the cement floor, taking a hard blow to his back where it struck the wall.
p41: He was lying on his back on hard concrete, a gray cement ceiling overhead.
p122: Now that the hour was later, and the crowds had dwindled, Toledo had become a different city.
p229: He jammed the walkie-talkie back into his pocket, sheathed his gun, and ran out to where Max waited with the Chrysler door open.
p280: Its color was pale, indicating recently poured cement.
space:
p308: One of the men, however, was reported to be a Europe an or American.
Didn't quite grab me by the throat as the last book I read. I seriously doubt Robert has a lot to do with writing this one.
p38: He stumbled and crashed to the cement floor, taking a hard blow to his back where it struck the wall.
p41: He was lying on his back on hard concrete, a gray cement ceiling overhead.
p122: Now that the hour was later, and the crowds had dwindled, Toledo had become a different city.
p229: He jammed the walkie-talkie back into his pocket, sheathed his gun, and ran out to where Max waited with the Chrysler door open.
p280: Its color was pale, indicating recently poured cement.
space:
p308: One of the men, however, was reported to be a Europe an or American.
Didn't quite grab me by the throat as the last book I read. I seriously doubt Robert has a lot to do with writing this one.
June 6, 2020
Typical Spy thriller, had it's moments. But a little predictable.
October 11, 2010
A decent story, but could have been better.
And by 'better', I'm thinking better told. According to the cover, it's a collaboration, and I think it shows. It's a fair bit longer than it really should be (it follows the premise of the last 'Bourne' I read, by having the whole thing build to a climax in the middle, then go on again. You know you're only half way through, as you can see there's still a couple of inches of book to go, it can't possibly have the impact it really should), and a bit flabby. Robert Ludlum's originals are usually a lot more tightly-written and suspense-filled than this. It could be trimmed and streamlined and not lose anything.
Plus, the main concept of 'the problem' (without giving anything away) wasn't developed as deeply as it could have been. The results of its 'deployment' were just shown as tests, not full-blown attacks, and weren't described in deep enough detail, so didn't really carry the level of dread they really should have. That of course, affects the levels of suspense generated when they're trying to stop the bad guys. You really have to believe they're fighting to save civilisation from this 'problem', and here it's a little 'meh'. That's as good as I can put it.
A second 'plus...', the English secret agent - you can tell he's English (if you should forget his introductory section), because he calls people 'lad', says 'frightfully', and generally runs around in the background like James Bond. He doesn't actually say 'I say!', but only because it probably got edited out.
Still, a right rattlin' read - Harlev bibliotek scores again!
And by 'better', I'm thinking better told. According to the cover, it's a collaboration, and I think it shows. It's a fair bit longer than it really should be (it follows the premise of the last 'Bourne' I read, by having the whole thing build to a climax in the middle, then go on again. You know you're only half way through, as you can see there's still a couple of inches of book to go, it can't possibly have the impact it really should), and a bit flabby. Robert Ludlum's originals are usually a lot more tightly-written and suspense-filled than this. It could be trimmed and streamlined and not lose anything.
Plus, the main concept of 'the problem' (without giving anything away) wasn't developed as deeply as it could have been. The results of its 'deployment' were just shown as tests, not full-blown attacks, and weren't described in deep enough detail, so didn't really carry the level of dread they really should have. That of course, affects the levels of suspense generated when they're trying to stop the bad guys. You really have to believe they're fighting to save civilisation from this 'problem', and here it's a little 'meh'. That's as good as I can put it.
A second 'plus...', the English secret agent - you can tell he's English (if you should forget his introductory section), because he calls people 'lad', says 'frightfully', and generally runs around in the background like James Bond. He doesn't actually say 'I say!', but only because it probably got edited out.
Still, a right rattlin' read - Harlev bibliotek scores again!
November 28, 2019
I love Ludlum’s books, and Gayle Lynds seems to have successfully finished a few Ludlum’s books before.
But this one left me unhappy and unsatisfied. As someone with the same “crippling disability” as Smith’s friend Marty has in the book and the series, said “disability” was portrayed inaccurately, disrespectfully, and sounding like all it was based on was reading from lousy outdated stories. Which it probably also was.
Another big satisfaction with the book I had is when a writer is clueless about something technical and just invents stuff instead of researching first how it works. In this book it was all about IT and how computer related things work - not taking into account the “DNA computer” being part of the story having all the artistic liberties in the world. Just basic computers, networking etc. No matter the book was written two decades ago: don’t just make up how technology works unless you write scifi. This iis supposed to be a Ludlum thriller, not scifi.
If both autism of one of the characters was depicted more accurately and respectfully, and all those computer related technologies worked like they work(ed) in the real life (that is two dexades ago), i would have liked this book. To not get constantly irritated by either, I had to listen to most of it at max speed. Even having one of my fav readers read it didn’t save it beyond two stars.
On the plus side, I now have found the first Ludlum book I didn’t like.
But this one left me unhappy and unsatisfied. As someone with the same “crippling disability” as Smith’s friend Marty has in the book and the series, said “disability” was portrayed inaccurately, disrespectfully, and sounding like all it was based on was reading from lousy outdated stories. Which it probably also was.
Another big satisfaction with the book I had is when a writer is clueless about something technical and just invents stuff instead of researching first how it works. In this book it was all about IT and how computer related things work - not taking into account the “DNA computer” being part of the story having all the artistic liberties in the world. Just basic computers, networking etc. No matter the book was written two decades ago: don’t just make up how technology works unless you write scifi. This iis supposed to be a Ludlum thriller, not scifi.
If both autism of one of the characters was depicted more accurately and respectfully, and all those computer related technologies worked like they work(ed) in the real life (that is two dexades ago), i would have liked this book. To not get constantly irritated by either, I had to listen to most of it at max speed. Even having one of my fav readers read it didn’t save it beyond two stars.
On the plus side, I now have found the first Ludlum book I didn’t like.
December 4, 2007
Downloaded from Audible.com
Narrator: Paul Michael
Publisher: Audio Renaissance, 2002
Length: 13 hours and 44 min.
Publisher's Summary
In the dark of night a fiery explosion shatters a laboratory building in Paris' esteemed Pasteur Institute. Presumed dead is Emile Chambourd, one of the leaders in the global race to create a molecular, or DNA, computer. Unfortunately, Professor Chambourd kept the details of his work secret, and his notes were apparently destroyed with him in the bomb blast and raging fire that followed.
The scientific community does not expect a DNA computer to be developed for years. But suddenly, without explanation, U.S. military jets disappear from radar screens. Utilities across the Western states cease functioning, and telecommunications are interrupted, with devastating consequences. Washington, fearing a panic, assures the public this is merely the work of a supremely clever hacker, but only the enormous power and speed of a DNA computer could have caused such havoc.
Under the cover of visiting his friend Marty Zellerbach, severely injured when the Pasteur lab was destroyed, Covert-One agent Jon Smith flies to Paris to find the forces wielding the computer. Following a trail that leads him across two continents, Smith uncovers a web of deception that could cost millions of lives and reshape the world.
Narrator: Paul Michael
Publisher: Audio Renaissance, 2002
Length: 13 hours and 44 min.
Publisher's Summary
In the dark of night a fiery explosion shatters a laboratory building in Paris' esteemed Pasteur Institute. Presumed dead is Emile Chambourd, one of the leaders in the global race to create a molecular, or DNA, computer. Unfortunately, Professor Chambourd kept the details of his work secret, and his notes were apparently destroyed with him in the bomb blast and raging fire that followed.
The scientific community does not expect a DNA computer to be developed for years. But suddenly, without explanation, U.S. military jets disappear from radar screens. Utilities across the Western states cease functioning, and telecommunications are interrupted, with devastating consequences. Washington, fearing a panic, assures the public this is merely the work of a supremely clever hacker, but only the enormous power and speed of a DNA computer could have caused such havoc.
Under the cover of visiting his friend Marty Zellerbach, severely injured when the Pasteur lab was destroyed, Covert-One agent Jon Smith flies to Paris to find the forces wielding the computer. Following a trail that leads him across two continents, Smith uncovers a web of deception that could cost millions of lives and reshape the world.
November 11, 2013
Third book in the Covert One series did not disappoint. The plot leaned more towards the "tech" side of things, rather than the "medical" as with the first two books in the series, which was refreshing to see. I'm glad this entire series isn't the same plot repeating itself over and over, like some thriller series like this tend to do.
I'm so glad the character Marty made a return appearance in this book. He is such a wonderful character. Ms. Lynds does a wonderful job with him - he's not just a "guy with Asperger's syndrome" in the story, but a character in his own right.
Other character made return appearances, like Peter Howell and Randi Russell. I've fallen in love with all of them, including Jon Smith of course and root for them throughout the entire story. I am interested to see how their relationships with each other grow as the series continues, and how each will change on their own too. So far, both authors of Robert Ludlum's series here, have done a master job of making me really connect with - or at least fall for - the characters in this book.
Tension a mile thick and lots of action fill this book. I'm loving this series and can't wait to read the next story.
I'm so glad the character Marty made a return appearance in this book. He is such a wonderful character. Ms. Lynds does a wonderful job with him - he's not just a "guy with Asperger's syndrome" in the story, but a character in his own right.
Other character made return appearances, like Peter Howell and Randi Russell. I've fallen in love with all of them, including Jon Smith of course and root for them throughout the entire story. I am interested to see how their relationships with each other grow as the series continues, and how each will change on their own too. So far, both authors of Robert Ludlum's series here, have done a master job of making me really connect with - or at least fall for - the characters in this book.
Tension a mile thick and lots of action fill this book. I'm loving this series and can't wait to read the next story.
March 8, 2022
Once again Jon Smith is called apon to stop possible world disaster. A new DNA computer capable of breaking any code and security protocol within seconds has fallen into the wrong hands. As time ticks by and the threat become dire can Jon and his friend from other agencies come together to stop what could be a devastating attack.
I struggled to get fully into this book, I'm not sure if it was the book or the world I am living in while I read it - perhaps the book was a little too close to home with the threat of war looming that my mind kept comparing to today's news. Nevertheless I've marked it based on how engaging it was and whilst both the story and writing were fine I did find there was quite a lot to keep track of and brain just couldn't keep up.
I did enjoy it, just not as much as the previous 2, hopefully by the time I pick up book 4 the world will be a better place and I will be able to concentrate more on my love of reading.
I struggled to get fully into this book, I'm not sure if it was the book or the world I am living in while I read it - perhaps the book was a little too close to home with the threat of war looming that my mind kept comparing to today's news. Nevertheless I've marked it based on how engaging it was and whilst both the story and writing were fine I did find there was quite a lot to keep track of and brain just couldn't keep up.
I did enjoy it, just not as much as the previous 2, hopefully by the time I pick up book 4 the world will be a better place and I will be able to concentrate more on my love of reading.
July 27, 2016
Eh. I guess I was spoiled by the Bourne books. I could see the ending plot twist coming from two miles out and kept wondering when my dense hero would pick up on what everybody else already knew. And I don't mean this in a bad way but it seemed the book was a PSA for Asperger syndrome. All Ludlum needed to do was mention Marty had it and give a brief description of what it is. Instead, he droned on about it, which detracted from the plot. Plus, Marty became an Asperger syndrome caricature. The dialogue written for him, especially toward the end, was embarrassing. And the athletic exercises they put him through—given his physical description in the book—were impossible to believe.
I don't know. I hate to beat up on the dearly departed Mr. Ludlum too much. I think he was a very talented writer. I'll just say that The Paris Option was not his best work and leave it at that.
I don't know. I hate to beat up on the dearly departed Mr. Ludlum too much. I think he was a very talented writer. I'll just say that The Paris Option was not his best work and leave it at that.
July 4, 2014
The best so far.
December 5, 2017
The third in the Covert-One series, this novel has the feel of something rushed to print in order to meet a looming deadline. It has a great futuristic high-tech plot. The good guys, from almost superman Jon Smith, the Covert One scientist/doctor/field agent, to a beautiful and sexy CIA operative, Randi Russell, to an older freelance British MI6 world-weary sophisticate, are accomplished, adept at using every known tool and bit of trade craft to accomplish their mission, while engaging in some accomplished repartee. The mission--nothing less than saving the world. But International Thrillers have to reach high.
The bad guys are seriously bad and have many immoral characters at their disposal. Not to mention unlimited funds and an ability to travel across national borders with total impunity. A good many of those on the dark side seem to be intellectually flawed, making errors that even rookies wouldn’t commit, but are discarded so quickly it becomes hard to recall them.
The story centers around a plot to radically alter the balance of world power through use of sophisticated new technology. It takes place almost entirely in Europe with side trips to the African Continent. Thus readers are treated to excellent descriptions of some spectacular scenes.
Unfortunately, there are too many easy solutions to some problems, too many clichés and unfortunate repetitions, and too many cardboard characters to make this a soul-satisfying experience. It is not up to either author’s usual standards.
September 10, 2024
This book is very interesting. I read the Covert-One series #1 The Hades Factor back when I was in 8th grade and forgot about it. Now that I'm in college, I suddenly remembered about it and realized that Covert-One is a series so I might as well look for the others since I liked the first installment. Back then, I found that book in our school library, fiction section, and I was totally impressed and hooked by it.
So, back to The Paris Option. This review is a bit cliche, but yeah. I really enjoyed the book, and the feeling never disappoints. I love how one piece of information leads to another. As the story advances and more secrets are unraveled, my chest also pounded in excitement.
You know, this novel was published way back in 2002 and oh my gosh, I wasn't even born yet at that time. I'm so glad that I was able to read this because I didn't know how rampant terrorism was and how serious was it. So, kind of an eye-opener for me.
Overall, this book is very informative, very entertaining, very nerve-wracking, very nice, and very satisfying.
So, back to The Paris Option. This review is a bit cliche, but yeah. I really enjoyed the book, and the feeling never disappoints. I love how one piece of information leads to another. As the story advances and more secrets are unraveled, my chest also pounded in excitement.
You know, this novel was published way back in 2002 and oh my gosh, I wasn't even born yet at that time. I'm so glad that I was able to read this because I didn't know how rampant terrorism was and how serious was it. So, kind of an eye-opener for me.
Overall, this book is very informative, very entertaining, very nerve-wracking, very nice, and very satisfying.
November 20, 2018
As a fan of Ludlums work, this was beyond a disappointment. It reads like the Famous Five. The lead characters are crying, holding hands, constantly coming unravelled. The use of a female in an obvious attempt to create a super woman is embarrassing for me as a woman. A totally unnecessary constant reference to autism including direct book references, and harping on about it as if the purpose is to educate us on the condition. The sanitisation of characters resulting in bad boys constantly using phrases like goodness me! Peppered throughout. If I wanted to read Nancy Drew I would buy the book. Not sure what went on here but its almost as if written for young adolescents. I cannot recommend this at all.
January 27, 2021
This is one of those books that I read because of the name brand of Robert Ludlum (this was one of those books that was written by Gayle Lynds using previously established characters from the Ludlum universe).
The story was an adequate one (especially when you consider that this was a 20 year old paperback that was grabbed fron a condo "library" - where other tenants drop off books that they have read).
That being said, the book read well - followed a formula - with what appeared to me to be one "hole" - the death of the British general - which is referred to multiple times later in the book.
That being said, I believe that this book rates a solid three and a half stars out of five.
As with all reviews, this is just my five cents worth.
The story was an adequate one (especially when you consider that this was a 20 year old paperback that was grabbed fron a condo "library" - where other tenants drop off books that they have read).
That being said, the book read well - followed a formula - with what appeared to me to be one "hole" - the death of the British general - which is referred to multiple times later in the book.
That being said, I believe that this book rates a solid three and a half stars out of five.
As with all reviews, this is just my five cents worth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2018
The Paris Option. Gayle Lynds
The DNA or molecular computer. It's capabilities are endless, but in the wrong hands a diabolical nightmare. An arrogant and pompous French NATO General and a highly respected French scientist want to return France to it's past glory days. They feel France and Europe are puppets to America. This computer has the capability to shut down all of America's defense systems. Covert one operative Colonel Jon Smith, along with CIA a operative and an M16 agent stands between this occurrence. Throw into the mix a group of terrorists with their own agenda. Fast paced and full of action! My highest recommendation!
The DNA or molecular computer. It's capabilities are endless, but in the wrong hands a diabolical nightmare. An arrogant and pompous French NATO General and a highly respected French scientist want to return France to it's past glory days. They feel France and Europe are puppets to America. This computer has the capability to shut down all of America's defense systems. Covert one operative Colonel Jon Smith, along with CIA a operative and an M16 agent stands between this occurrence. Throw into the mix a group of terrorists with their own agenda. Fast paced and full of action! My highest recommendation!
January 13, 2018
Tried to listen to an audio version of this book, got about 1/2 way through the story, before calling it: " ENOUGH ALREADY!"
Neither my husband nor I could find enough interest in the characters, nor the story, to finish listening through to the end.
This book does not have the usual Robert Ludlum "pizazz" and "sizzle"; other than his name on the cover, I wonder how much of this book he actually wrote!
Not worth my/our time & effort to finish listening!
Neither my husband nor I could find enough interest in the characters, nor the story, to finish listening through to the end.
This book does not have the usual Robert Ludlum "pizazz" and "sizzle"; other than his name on the cover, I wonder how much of this book he actually wrote!
Not worth my/our time & effort to finish listening!
April 2, 2023
This review is based on the audio version. An action packed thriller that is likely to be turned into a movie if it hasn’t already been. I’m not interested enough to bother looking it up. Three special agents (a white American man, a sexy woman, and a Brit who is a master of disguise) from secret agencies are racing against the clock to find and disable the world’s first DNA computer before bad guys can use it for their nefarious purposes.
September 18, 2024
I forgot just how much I love Robert Ludlum's books. 3rd book in the series, and I still can't wait to read the 7 remaining ones.
All the action literally happened in the last 5 chapters, and it had me on the edge of my seat. As a science nerd, a DNA computer being used for biological warfare is like chocolate to me - I'm absolutely obsessed. Can't wait to read book 4 (got to find it first, though)
All the action literally happened in the last 5 chapters, and it had me on the edge of my seat. As a science nerd, a DNA computer being used for biological warfare is like chocolate to me - I'm absolutely obsessed. Can't wait to read book 4 (got to find it first, though)
June 14, 2018
I d to read a library book in the middle of this so it took a while to finish but not because I didn't like it. Even though it was written many moons ago it seems a little scary for our times. Of course finding the ultra talented good guys with all the breaks probably won't be in the equation if someone decided to do what this person wanted! It was fun to read.
December 30, 2022
Nice military story with an unpredictable plot that makes you guessing till (almost) the end.
I liked a lot how the story unravels piece by piece to give you enough information to let you know you are wrong but not enough to let you know what is actually happening.
A good read if you like a fusion of mystery and military.
I liked a lot how the story unravels piece by piece to give you enough information to let you know you are wrong but not enough to let you know what is actually happening.
A good read if you like a fusion of mystery and military.
February 21, 2025
Like book #1, not an accurate or kind portrayal of Aspergers. Any time something techy is happening, I'm cringing and thinking "that's not how that works." Also not how government/military work. I expect the heroes to get lucky, but the kind of luck these get is like standing in front of the targets at a busy firing range and barely getting grazed.
January 25, 2018
This was both interesting (the DNA computer) and reasonably gripping throughout. I'm not sure why I docked a star: maybe it wasn't quite as gripping as others in the Covert-One series. But still worth reading.
August 25, 2018
Good read
I started reading this series and I have enjoyed them. So far I have read two and Jon is real hero. I also enjoyed his friends especially Marty. The author does a good job of explaining Aspergers.
I started reading this series and I have enjoyed them. So far I have read two and Jon is real hero. I also enjoyed his friends especially Marty. The author does a good job of explaining Aspergers.
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