Cancelled: The Ultimate October Surprise

by Michael Pinsky

A narcissistic president is determined not to leave office. He orchestrates a number of domestic and foreign incidents in an effort to create a state of emergency.

A retired general, following the news, connects the dots and starts on a mission to save the country and to keep America free.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 3, 2016

Reviews

[Anthony Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Cancelled", Michael Pinsky’s character development is complex yet deeply engaging. The story features several notable characters, each contributing uniquely to the political intrigue, ethical battles, and future of the country.

General William Mendenhall, though initially appearing straightforward, is a richly layered character. His dedication to veterans and strategic expertise add significant depth to the narrative. Mendenhall’s disillusionment with the current administration and his covert operations reflect his strong sense of justice and loyalty, making him a compelling and multidimensional figure.

Austin Howard, the billionaire with a decisive anti-establishment stance, might evoke comparisons to real-life figures, but his controversial views and dynamic campaign strategy injects vibrancy and polarization into the story. His commitment to challenging the status quo and his innovative vision for reform drive the plot with considerable energy.

Steve Aarons and Major Sherwood Adams further enhance the complexity. Aarons, a retired Navy SEAL, represents the struggle to restore legal governance, while Adams embodies government overreach. Their tense standoff sets the stage for the unfolding drama. Although the mix of real and fictional elements may seem confusing at first, it ultimately enriches the narrative, highlighting the blurred lines between reality and political fiction and deepening the intrigue.

[Julian Winslow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a law enforcer, and I found "Cancelled" by Michael Pinsky to be both illuminating and relevant. The novel’s portrayal of Austin Howard's rise as a polarizing figure highlights how anti-establishment rhetoric can significantly influence public sentiment and political landscapes. This serves as a reminder of the impact that public perception and media portrayal can have on law enforcement and its relationship with the community.

The book’s emphasis on government accountability, as exemplified by General William Mendenhall’s critique of the administration, underscores the importance of integrity and transparency in leadership. This resonates deeply with the principles of law enforcement, where upholding accountability and addressing systemic issues are crucial for maintaining public trust and effectiveness.

Finally, the concept of an "October surprise" in the novel mirrors the unpredictable nature of events that can affect law enforcement operations and public safety. It’s a reminder of the need for adaptability and vigilance in responding to sudden changes and emerging threats, especially during elections. "Cancelled" offers valuable insights into the intersection of political dynamics and law enforcement, encouraging a proactive and informed approach to both governance and public service.

[Ronald Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah, "Cancelled"—a literary rollercoaster that straps you in and hurtles toward an electrifying revelation. Michael Pinsky, the puppet master, deftly weaves suspense into every fiber of this tale.

Picture it: the calendar flips, and we're less than two months from the election. Austin Howard, the charismatic frontrunner, struts like a peacock atop the polls. But wait—the shadows lengthen. The "October surprise" looms, a cryptic whisper in the political winds.

What is it? A scandal? A bombshell endorsement? A clandestine meeting in a dimly lit room? We're left dangling, toes over the abyss. Pinsky's breadcrumbs lead us deeper, and we're ravenous for answers.

The tension? It crackles. The stakes? Sky-high. We're detectives, piecing together clues, eyes darting from page to page. Will the surprise tip the scales? Will Howard stumble or soar?

As readers, we're complicit. We sip our coffee, gnaw our nails, and mutter, "Just one more chapter." The unknown beckons, and we're powerless to resist. "Cancelled" isn't just a novel; it's a conspiracy—the kind that keeps you awake at night, wondering what's lurking around the corner.

[Luke Wakefield · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone working in the government, I found "Cancelled" by Michael Pinsky to be a particularly relevant and thought-provoking read. The novel’s characters, though clearly inspired by real-life figures, are given fictionalized motives that intensify the suspense and provoke a reevaluation of familiar political events. The integration of real episodes from the Trump/Clinton race through the lens of Austin Howard and Samantha Thompson adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative.

The novel’s depiction of both real and fictional terrorist attacks effectively heightens the sense of urgency and stakes, reflecting the complex and often unpredictable nature of global security concerns. This blending of reality and fiction not only engages the reader but also mirrors the challenges faced in government work, where the lines between actual events and strategic narratives can often blur. "Cancelled" serves as a compelling exploration of political dynamics, urging readers, especially those in government roles, to consider the broader implications of leadership, security, and public perception.

[Brittany Ramsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

American citizens and voters should take *Cancelled* by Michael Pinsky seriously. This novel provides crucial insights into the fragility of our democratic system, vividly illustrating how political polarization and government overreach can drive a nation to the brink of collapse. The rise of Austin Howard as an anti-establishment candidate mirrors the real-world impact of widespread dissatisfaction, much like how political turmoil was amplified by recent events, including the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

The book’s exploration of leadership during times of global instability and domestic unrest underscores the urgent need for ethical governance and unity. As the story parallels the increasing global threats and civil conflicts with the fictional narrative, it reinforces the necessity for strong, principled leadership to safeguard democratic values.

"Cancelled" is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying informed and engaged. It illustrates how our collective choices as voters shape the direction of our nation and highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting the integrity of our democracy.

[Nevaeh Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Cancelled", Michael Pinsky has crafted an electrifying portrayal of political upheaval that kept me on the edge of my seat. Austin Howard’s rise in the chaotic political arena is both compelling and alarming as he skillfully taps into public frustration with the current administration, focusing on hot-button issues like immigration, national debt, and crumbling infrastructure. His campaign’s provocative strategies only heighten the tension, contrasting sharply with Samantha Thompson’s struggle with internal party conflicts and a looming FBI investigation. I was struck by how Pinsky vividly captures a nation on the brink, where political and social discord threaten to unravel the very fabric of governance. This book offers a gripping and insightful look into modern political conflicts and the fragile balance of power that governs our world.

Highly recommend to anyone who loves to read.

[Patience White · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid reader and educator, "Cancelled" by Michael Pinsky left me breathless. The novel cranks up the tension, thrusting us into a world of international terrorism and domestic upheaval. Picture an Olympic attack—a seismic event that reverberates globally.

Austin Howard, with his polarizing rhetoric and controversial policies, stands at the eye of the storm. His bold statements ignite public discontent, challenging existing leadership. And then there's General Mendenhall—a character who peels back layers, questioning the government's hidden motives. Mitch Parsons, the enigmatic militia leader, adds intrigue.

Conspiracy whispers. Distrust simmers. Pinsky captures a nation wrestling with its soul. The intensity? Electric. The relevance? Strikingly contemporary.

For those who crave political complexity, "Cancelled" is a must-read. Dive in. Wrestle with the chaos. It's a mirror reflecting our turbulent times

[Shirley Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

While “Cancelled” may not resonate with everyone, I found it to be a compelling read, particularly for those intrigued by political dramas. Michael Pinsky's novel, though fictional, vividly reflects current political dynamics, providing a fresh perspective on familiar themes. The resemblance of Austin Howard to Trump might seem apparent, but it adds a layer of relevance and urgency to the narrative. Far from being boring, the book’s portrayal of political maneuvering and scandal is engrossing and thought-provoking.

Regarding character names, Pinsky’s approach to using varying names can initially be confusing, but it enhances the complexity and depth of the narrative as you progress. Far from flat, the characters embody the intricacies of real-world politics, and their evolving roles add to the novel's suspense. For those interested in an engaging political thriller, “Cancelled” offers an intriguing exploration of leadership and power.

[Cynthia Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Cancelled" by Michael Pinsky truly distinguishes itself with its audacious mix of reality and fiction. While this approach injects a fresh perspective into the political thriller genre, it doesn’t come without its challenges. The novel intertwines actual events, like the Munich massacre, with fictional elements in a way that might feel jarring at first. However, this blending of fact and fiction succeeds in underscoring the murky boundaries between real and imagined political scenarios.

Pinsky’s innovative narrative creates a compelling and suspenseful experience, but the execution sometimes teeters on the edge of confusion. The suspense builds effectively towards a gripping climax, showcasing the chaotic nature of contemporary politics. Despite its engaging portrayal of political intrigue and emotional highs, the novel’s ambitious approach can occasionally detract from its impact. It’s a bold attempt at redefining the genre, though not without its own set of complexities.

[Harper Bridgewater · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Cancelled" by Michael Pinsky is a riveting political thriller that draws the reader into the chaotic landscape of the 2016 US elections. The story skillfully intertwines the suspense of a high-stakes election with the ominous undertones of a nation on the brink. As Austin Howard, an unlikely Republican candidate, goes head-to-head with seasoned Democratic contenders, the narrative takes a darker turn through the eyes of General William Mendenhall. His growing unease over the shifting military landscape and the government's increasing control raises critical questions about the real stakes of this election. I found the book to be an intense and thought-provoking exploration of power, ambition, and the shadowy forces at play in politics. The tension builds masterfully, leaving readers questioning who truly holds the reins in this high-stakes game. This book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by political intrigue and the complexities behind public spectacle.

[Carter Waverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who is into politics, I found “Cancelled” by Michael Pinsky to be an electrifying dive into the tumultuous world of modern politics. The book intricately weaves a narrative of political upheaval with a gripping portrayal of Steve Aarons, a retired Navy SEAL, and Major Sherwood Adams, who are caught in a tense standoff against a backdrop of government overreach and civil unrest. Austin Howard, a flamboyant billionaire, emerges as a provocative Republican candidate challenging the status quo, while Samantha Thompson's Democratic campaign grapples with internal strife and an unforgiving past. Pinsky's depiction of Howard's rise amid scandal and societal discontent, paired with the escalating global and domestic crises, makes for a compelling exploration of political dynamics. The story captures the essence of a nation at a crossroads, where leadership, rhetoric, and public sentiment play pivotal roles in shaping the future.

[Abigail Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cancelled” reads like a warning flare shot into the sky in an election year. The premise—an incumbent administration manufacturing domestic terror to justify postponing elections—feels uncomfortably close to present anxieties about polarization and power. What drew me in was less the action (although there is plenty) and more the atmosphere of distrust. Pinsky builds a depressing portrait of a society where citizens no longer believe in institutions, media narratives are weaponized, and bureaucracies are militarized. General Mendenhall becomes a surrogate for readers who still believe in the rule of law, even when surrounded by corruption. The book is clearly written from a conservative perspective, but regardless of political preference, it raises a valuable question: what happens when leaders lose faith in democracy itself? It’s unsettling, timely, and surprisingly reflective beneath the fire.

[Dylan Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a reader who enjoys Tom Clancy-style thrillers, I found “Cancelled” to be very much in that lineage—government machinations, intelligence operations, military analysis, political scheming, and a pinch of dystopia. The narrative follows multiple threads: a sitting president plotting internal attacks, a reluctant Democratic nominee caught in scandals, a populist Republican rising in the polls, and a retired general slowly uncovering the truth. The pace accelerates as crisis compounds crisis, creating an almost overwhelming news-cycle panic that mirrors reality. Pinsky’s strength lies in how he uses real-world frustrations—immigration, terrorism, media bias, disillusionment—to fuel the stakes. While the book is undeniably ideological and may alienate some readers, the thriller mechanics work. If you appreciate novels where elections are battlegrounds and patriotism clashes with institutional decay, this belongs on your list.

[Julia Guzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading “Cancelled” as someone involved in political science was fascinating. Pinsky constructs a speculative scenario where democratic erosion emerges not through foreign coups, but through manufactured domestic emergencies. Many scholars warn that modern democracies tend to collapse through legalistic manipulation rather than tanks in the street, and this book models that mechanism in fictional form. He incorporates debates around media framing, public outrage cycles, security theater, and hyper-partisanship. Some passages read almost like political commentary—particularly regarding agency militarization, refugee policy, and executive overreach. The ideological slant is unmistakable, but I actually appreciated that. Good political fiction chooses a viewpoint and explores it fully. For me, the value of “Cancelled” is not whether it aligns with the reader’s beliefs, but how convincingly it maps a pathway toward democratic breakdown.

[Sophia Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I approached “Cancelled” skeptically because I tend to dislike partisan fiction, but the book surprised me. Yes, it leans right politically, but it isn’t simply a novelized rant. It’s a structured scenario about democratic failure. The president’s scheme isn’t mustache-twirling villainy—it’s presented as realpolitik carried to its logical, terrifying conclusion. Meanwhile, the Republican challenger struggles against institutional hostility, and the Democratic nominee wrestles with scandals and internal fractures. The novel shows that corruption and self-interest don’t live in one party alone, which I appreciated. The tension ramps up through cascading crises until the reader feels emotionally exhausted, which I suspect was intentional. “Cancelled” ultimately argues that democracy survives not because institutions are strong, but because individuals refuse to surrender them. That message landed strongly.

[Janice Chen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Pinsky’s “Cancelled” is a stark political thriller that imagines an American election thrown into chaos by the very administration meant to safeguard it. What impressed me most is the procedural feel—Pinsky approaches politics like a military operation, laying out bureaucratic dysfunction, inter-agency paranoia, and media manipulation with an almost documentary instinct. The retired General Mendenhall serves as the book’s moral lens, and his dogged suspicion gives the story momentum and tension. Pinsky doesn’t shy away from ideology; he leans into real-world grievances about government overreach, immigration, and media bias. Whether one agrees with his worldview or not, the book succeeds as a cautionary tale about how fragile democratic institutions really are when power becomes an end in itself. It lands with the weight of a plausible nightmare.

[Jesse Mendez · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cancelled” feels like the literary equivalent of talk-radio adrenaline—emotional, combative, and unafraid to declare its worldview. The book follows a sitting president who, fearing electoral defeat, orchestrates terror incidents to justify cancelling democracy. Opposing him are unlikely patriots, including General Mendenhall, who slowly pieces together the reality beneath the chaos. Where the book succeeds is character conviction. Everyone in this novel believes something, fights for something, and suffers for something. It’s not subtle, but subtlety isn’t the point—the point is alarm. I’m not usually drawn to political thrillers, yet this one struck me because it reflects the mood of an exhausted nation, full of distrust and ready for conspiracy. Even if you argue with Pinsky’s politics, you cannot deny that he’s writing from genuine concern rather than cynicism.

[Jordan Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me about “Cancelled” was how it echoed holiday conversations with my own relatives—particularly around Christmas when politics inevitably enters the room. Pinsky captures that anxious feeling that the country is splitting into incompatible worldviews. His portrayal of a president willing to burn the country down to extend his power feels extreme, yet discussions at family gatherings often sound just as dire, depending on who’s speaking. The book uses terrorism, media spin, race tensions, and ideological warfare to build a sense of national fracture. General Mendenhall becomes the stand-in for anyone who still believes institutions can be saved. I wouldn’t call the novel subtle, but it felt honest to how many Americans actually talk. If you’ve ever left a family holiday dinner feeling worried about the republic, this book resonates.

[Judy Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cancelled” is a book of frustrations—frustration with media narratives, frustration with political elites, frustration with cultural decay, frustration with national weakness. The writing channels a kind of patriotic anger, and that emotional energy powers the narrative. The scenes involving domestic terror are intense and disturbing, and Pinsky uses them to hammer home the fragility of public order. The retired general’s investigation is a necessary counterweight to the chaos, giving the reader someone rational to follow through the noise. Stylistically, the prose leans explanatory—Pinsky wants you to understand policy consequences, not just feel explosions. Whether one accepts his worldview or not, there’s value in literature that captures a particular emotional moment in a country’s political psychology. “Cancelled” does that with memorable fervor.

[Joe Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a thriller, “Cancelled” takes a daring premise—an American president staging crises to postpone elections—and runs with it at full velocity. Pinsky excels at pacing: terror attacks, media uproar, racial conflict, bureaucratic power plays, and electoral strategy all converge. I found the subplot involving agency militarization particularly compelling because it’s grounded in real policy concerns that rarely enter fiction. The character of Mendenhall and other dismissed officers gives the book a military conscience, contrasting sharply with Washington’s cynicism. The dialogue is straightforward rather than literary, but that suits the material. The climax delivers on the promise of the premise, and the final chapters leave you wondering how close fiction sits to possibility. Overall, a brisk, high-stakes warning shot wrapped in political suspense.

[Grace Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From a craft standpoint, “Cancelled” is structured around escalation. Each chapter injects another surge of crisis—terror attacks, racial violence, geopolitical instability, agency militarization—until the reader senses a tipping point. Pinsky’s approach mirrors the speed of modern media cycles: we barely process one tragedy before the next arrives. This narrative design effectively builds dread. The ideological voice is unmistakable, sometimes didactic, but that also anchors the novel in a specific worldview rather than watering it down. I admired the depiction of Mendenhall, not as an action hero, but as a methodical observer who slowly recognizes a conspiracy through pattern recognition. The climax feels earned, and the resolutions are more sober than triumphant. The book left me thinking about how democracies die—slowly at first, then suddenly.

[Willie Holmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read “Cancelled” over a rainy weekend, and it reminded me of older Cold War thrillers that weren’t afraid of politics. What I enjoyed most was its sense of plausibility. While the plot is extreme—a president orchestrating terror to justify election cancellation—it’s grounded in recognizable institutions: DHS, FBI, the press, party conventions, governors, congressional factions. Pinsky understands how power moves through bureaucracies and how narratives shape public reaction. The portrayal of media uniformity, intelligence skepticism, and grassroots distrust felt very current. Some readers may object to the conservative framing, but I think that’s part of what makes it interesting; it provides insight into how certain segments of America view contemporary politics. It’s fast, dramatic, and unexpectedly informative for a work of fiction.

[Isabella Salazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

My personal connection to “Cancelled” comes from being a veteran. I recognized the resentment Pinsky channels through Mendenhall and the other dismissed officers—the feeling that years of service can be brushed aside by political appointees who neither know nor respect military realities. The novel’s conflict isn’t just about an election; it’s about who gets to define patriotism. The military characters see themselves as stewards of the republic, while the administration frames dissent as extremism. That tension felt very real. The scenes where Mendenhall pieces together the coup plot reminded me of intelligence brief sessions, slow but revelatory. The book has ideological sharp edges, but it also has heart—particularly in its respect for those who serve. Veterans will recognize the emotional truth beneath the fiction.

[Alan Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cancelled” is at its most compelling when it explores how crises can be exploited. Pinsky draws from history—Reichstag Fire, emergency decrees, martial law precedents—without explicitly naming them, but the parallels are unmistakable. The novel demonstrates how fear can justify anything: surveillance, militarization, postponed elections, targeted propaganda. The chilling part is that the conspirators don’t need the public to support them—only to be afraid. Mendenhall’s resistance provides the counter-argument: that the republic survives only when individuals accept personal risk in defense of it. I thought that thematic dimension elevated the book beyond simple political drama. Even if you disagree with Pinsky’s interpretation of contemporary politics, the core thesis remains universal: liberty dies when people choose safety over accountability.

[Jaxson Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pinsky's "Cancelled" pulses with tension—a gripping narrative that thrusts us into a world of political conflict. A retired Navy SEAL Steve Aarons faces off against Major Sherwood Adams, the DHS in turmoil. Government overreach and civil unrest form the backdrop.

As Aarons fights for a lawful government, we're plunged into a polarized political landscape. The election hangs in the balance, shadows stretching across the nation. Enter Austin Howard, a brash billionaire—anti-establishment, hungry for power in the Republican race.

The intrigue crackles. Tension hums. Pinsky's fractured political system feels too real. Democracy teeters, integrity at stake. This thriller? It's a wild ride—a glimpse into modern chaos.

From start to finish, "Cancelled" grips you.

[Richard Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sometimes choose books for their covers, and the title “Cancelled” grabbed me before I even touched the synopsis. The cover and subtitle (“The Ultimate October Surprise”) signal exactly what you’re getting: a high-stakes political thriller rooted in election chaos. After finishing it, I’d say the book delivers on that packaging. It’s not a character study or a literary experiment—it’s a scenario: What if an administration manufactured domestic emergencies to justify postponing democratic transfer of power? The writing keeps you flipping pages because the crises keep getting bigger. I’m not the target political audience, but I still enjoyed how clear the stakes were and how confidently the narrative moved. It’s a book designed to provoke, and in that sense the title suits it perfectly.

[Theresa Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, “Cancelled” worked as a cultural artifact as much as a thriller. It captures a segment of American anxiety—fear of government overreach, distrust of media, suspicion of foreign refugees, concern over immigration, anger over bureaucracy, and nostalgia for constitutional clarity. Pinsky transforms those anxieties into plot mechanics that drive the narrative toward a coup attempt disguised as public safety. Some will read this as alarmism; others as prophecy. I read it as a snapshot of a particular era’s psyche. The constant barrage of crises felt chaotic because our real-world news cycle feels chaotic. While the book is clearly partisan, it never bored me. Love it or argue with it, “Cancelled” demands engagement, and that alone makes it worth reading.

[Jamarion Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Cancelled," Pinsky thrusts us into a tense political arena. Imagine a narcissistic president clinging to power, manipulating crises like a puppeteer. The plot feels eerily real, heightening the stakes.

The setting—gripping and unsettling—mirrors our world's complexities. A retired general unravels the president's schemes, battling manipulation with integrity. The tension builds, urging us to safeguard democracy.

This isn't just a thriller; it's a warning. Democracy hangs by a thread. Pinsky's twists kept me glued—a rollercoaster ride through power's corridors.

Buckle up. "Cancelled" isn't just a book; it's a glimpse into our fragile reality.

[Heidi · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was a challenge for me to enjoy. Though the premise is definitely interesting and realistic, there were some things that prevented me from giving it a higher rating.

While reading, I felt lost within the characters. There wasn’t much distinguishable characteristics between most of the players here. They were all bland without much emotion or expression. When there was a somewhat light moment, it seemed forced. There were key characters, POTUS and the two candidates, that stuck in my mind more because their names were mentioned several times. However, they also were flat.

I felt that the author purposely used the two candidates, Austin and Samantha, to reflect the Trump and Clinton elections. This became a bit old and tiring; I felt my eyes roll quite a few times when I read parts that reflect the real-life people to the fictional candidates. Throughout a good portion of the read, the author seemed very much in favor of the character that played more-or-less Trump, which I wasn’t a fan of either.

Read my full review here:
https://bookloverblogs.com/2017/04/04...

*This was part of the OnlineBookClub.org Book of the Day Program*