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James Ryker #1
The Red Cobra
Carl Logan dedicated nearly twenty years of his life to the Joint Intelligence Agency. Now living in a secret location, under the new identify of James Ryker, he wants nothing more than to be left alone, the chance to start a new life away from chaos, violence, destruction and deceit.
It’s not long, however, before Ryker’s short-lived idyll is destroyed when he is tracked down by Peter Winter, his ex-boss at the JIA. Winter brings with him news of the murder of a woman in Spain, Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of one of Ryker’s former adversaries who’s been missing presumed dead for years - an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra.
A cyberattack at the JIA led to the Red Cobra’s profile being compromised, and Winter believes JIA agents may now be at risk too, Ryker included. But Ryker knew the elusive Red Cobra better than anyone, and when he sees the grisly pictures of Kim Walker’s corpse, he has news for Winter - she isn't the assassin at all ...
So just who is the mystery dead woman? And where is the real Red Cobra?
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2017
3932 people are currently reading
1344 people want to read
About the author
Rob Sinclair
34 books680 followersRob is the author of the critically acclaimed and bestselling Enemy series and James Ryker series of espionage thrillers. His books have sold over half a million copies to date with many reviewers and readers having likened Rob's work to authors at the very top of the genre, including Lee Child and Vince Flynn.
Rob began writing in 2009 following a promise to his wife, an avid reader, that he could pen a ‘can’t put down’ thriller. He worked for nearly 13 years for a global accounting firm after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2002, specialising in forensic fraud investigations at both national and international levels. Rob now writes full time.
Originally from the North East of England, Rob has lived and worked in a number of fast paced cities and is now based near Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, sons and dog
Rob began writing in 2009 following a promise to his wife, an avid reader, that he could pen a ‘can’t put down’ thriller. He worked for nearly 13 years for a global accounting firm after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2002, specialising in forensic fraud investigations at both national and international levels. Rob now writes full time.
Originally from the North East of England, Rob has lived and worked in a number of fast paced cities and is now based near Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, sons and dog
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews
April 27, 2017
Bloody...
There was many bloody killings, turned off by reading how much blood was pooling around the bodies again and again. Maybe my age and gender, difficult to read. Story takes place all over in Europe, enjoyed reading and looking at the pictures of Andalusia, on Google, beautiful place and rich history. Story has plenty action, but it wasn't entertaining for me.
There was many bloody killings, turned off by reading how much blood was pooling around the bodies again and again. Maybe my age and gender, difficult to read. Story takes place all over in Europe, enjoyed reading and looking at the pictures of Andalusia, on Google, beautiful place and rich history. Story has plenty action, but it wasn't entertaining for me.
July 24, 2020
So this is my first read by Rob Sinclair and on looking he is a prolific author, there are 3 books before this one that lead up to this series and so far 5 in this series as well as other series’ he has written/writing ( Sleeper series looks interesting )
Anyway this book starts with Ryker being ‘invited’ to find ‘Red Cobra’, both he and RC are former assassins, him a goody, RC a baddy, both ‘retired’ and both now living under pseudo-names ( it was thought RC was killed but it seems not ), they have a past and the book basically discovers more of their pasts as well as telling the story in the now, a fair amount of action, some gruesome, a fair amount of waffle too that just wasn’t relevant to the story and felt, as it was, a ‘filling out’ of the book, some of the conversation was clunky and my mind wandered on and off, character wise neither of them or any of the ‘extras’ caused enough reaction in me to like or dislike them, however a brilliant 2 part shock ending that left me deciding I will try Book 2 and see how it goes, it wont be a priority to read it has to be said but it’s there for the future
6/10
3 Stars
Anyway this book starts with Ryker being ‘invited’ to find ‘Red Cobra’, both he and RC are former assassins, him a goody, RC a baddy, both ‘retired’ and both now living under pseudo-names ( it was thought RC was killed but it seems not ), they have a past and the book basically discovers more of their pasts as well as telling the story in the now, a fair amount of action, some gruesome, a fair amount of waffle too that just wasn’t relevant to the story and felt, as it was, a ‘filling out’ of the book, some of the conversation was clunky and my mind wandered on and off, character wise neither of them or any of the ‘extras’ caused enough reaction in me to like or dislike them, however a brilliant 2 part shock ending that left me deciding I will try Book 2 and see how it goes, it wont be a priority to read it has to be said but it’s there for the future
6/10
3 Stars
April 7, 2017
Red Cobra is a fast paced, snappy thriller of the kind that I’ve come to expect from this author – one of those again I read in one sitting (well 2 if you count school run bang in the middle, rock and roll lifestyle) I love a good action thriller and this does exactly what it says on the tin. And then some.
This is a spin off from The Enemy Series and sees the return of Carl Logan, albeit under an assumed name, and features female assassin, the Red Cobra of the title – who is entirely fascinating and who I engaged with hugely, I do love a good kick ass woman in a novel, one who takes no prisoners and boogies to the beat of her own drum. So to speak. Especially when they are villains who you love to hate to love.
The plotting is taut and clever, the past/present vibe works brilliantly and Rob Sinclair walks the line between edge of the seat thrills and considered character development beautifully. Twisting and turning the story all the way through it is utterly gripping and totally immersive.
Best yet I’d say. Reading escapism of the best kind. Don’t think about it. Just do it.
Recommended.
This is a spin off from The Enemy Series and sees the return of Carl Logan, albeit under an assumed name, and features female assassin, the Red Cobra of the title – who is entirely fascinating and who I engaged with hugely, I do love a good kick ass woman in a novel, one who takes no prisoners and boogies to the beat of her own drum. So to speak. Especially when they are villains who you love to hate to love.
The plotting is taut and clever, the past/present vibe works brilliantly and Rob Sinclair walks the line between edge of the seat thrills and considered character development beautifully. Twisting and turning the story all the way through it is utterly gripping and totally immersive.
Best yet I’d say. Reading escapism of the best kind. Don’t think about it. Just do it.
Recommended.
December 12, 2018
Rather boring. Read like an overdone dry spy novel. Just wasn't for me.
April 3, 2019
Klasik bir aksiyon kitabıydı. Polisiye deyip kenara ayıramam bu kitabı. Çünkü ajanlar var. Mayfalar var. Takip ve suikastler var. Yani anlayacağınız aksiyon kitabı.
James Ryker serisine başladım başlamasına da başlangıcımız çok hoş olmadı. Karakterle ilgili çok az detay vermiş yazar. Kendimi karaktere yakın hissedemedim. Kitabın sonu açık bırakılmış ki okuyucu devamı olduğundan emin olsun diye.
Benim için ortalama bir kitaptı. Çerezlik gider.
James Ryker serisine başladım başlamasına da başlangıcımız çok hoş olmadı. Karakterle ilgili çok az detay vermiş yazar. Kendimi karaktere yakın hissedemedim. Kitabın sonu açık bırakılmış ki okuyucu devamı olduğundan emin olsun diye.
Benim için ortalama bir kitaptı. Çerezlik gider.
July 26, 2017
Another new-to-me author. Another winner. Lately I've been gravitating towards thrillers/mysteries and was fortunate enough to come across Rob Sinclair's tweet announcing his latest release. I figured 'why not' and after having sampled The Red Cobra and liking what I saw, I instantly became a fan of this fast paced, action packed series featuring James Ryker. This author definitely knows how to keep you interested with an intriguing plot that keeps moving forward and enough flashbacks to give you better understanding of how these characters came to be.
James Ryker is a spin-off of Rob Sinclair's Enemy Series which I am definitely looking forward to checking out in the near future. I am now a huge fan of all things Mr. Sinclair and everything he has to offer.
Cheers!
July 19, 2025
The audio book wasn't that bad...the reader and the story line to me I had a hard time. I won't be continuing the series.
June 27, 2020
3,5 / 5
Okuyucuyu şaşırtmak adına eksik bilgi verilen kurguları sevmiyorum. Şaşırmaktan ziyade aptal yerine konmuş hissediyorum. O yüzden kitabı başından itibaren heyecanla okusam da finalin bağlanış şeklini beğenemedim 😕
Okuyucuyu şaşırtmak adına eksik bilgi verilen kurguları sevmiyorum. Şaşırmaktan ziyade aptal yerine konmuş hissediyorum. O yüzden kitabı başından itibaren heyecanla okusam da finalin bağlanış şeklini beğenemedim 😕
November 20, 2017
This is just the type of book to read when you’re full of cold and can not sleep due to that persistent cough and concerned by the stuff you bring up.
We all know more women are supposed to read books especially in the crime genre. However there is a niche I would suggest, where the crime thriller is more geared to reach a male audience. Authors like Rob Sinclair based on this book certainly, and some of Mark Dawson’s Work fall into this category .
The allusive female assassin as likely to kill you as take you to bed. The crime syndicate bringing death and sorrow to society through drugs, prostitution and people trafficking. The lone agent out to bring order to this chaos and restore fairness where justice has been compromised by bribes and brutality.
The Red Cobra has all these elements and more. Action, revenge, female exploitation, the femme fatale, multiple fights and killings, blurred sense of right and wrong, government shady practises and raw emotion.
Beatings and torture are described in great detail while the weather is forgotten unless it undermines surveillance or the ability to escape.
That is not to say that such novels don’t have wide appeal. It is their relentless action, uncompromising betrayal and hopeless positions against the odds.
What places this story above the average fare is the back story and mystery brought to the characters. The flashbacks not only bring clarity, they show motivation and the depravity of human nature. This sense of a worse and common enemy is what drives such stories and desensitises the violence; baddies are evil and deserve to die. Karma exists but innocent lives are not usually “wasted” in most senses of the word. Good must be seen to be a whiter shade of grey.
A great read for those long journeys or dark nights. With a sense of place and time. Locations across the holiday destinations of Andalusia and a dark Berlin. A story you will want to read more the further you get into the book and that annoying aspect of the first one of a new series 10% left unsaid for the next instalment. In James Ryker we are introduced to an operative who used to follow orders but having retired is motivated by new forces. Less able to be controlled and more independent of mind. Such agents are often a liability and his hiding strategy is a protection from all players in the game in which he used to shine. Not really knowing who he can trust he is propelled into his former ways to look and kill the red cobra but others forces are at work.
A book worth reading, it will quicken your pulse and leave you breathless at times but the reward is an entertaining story, well worth all that effort from your armchair.
We all know more women are supposed to read books especially in the crime genre. However there is a niche I would suggest, where the crime thriller is more geared to reach a male audience. Authors like Rob Sinclair based on this book certainly, and some of Mark Dawson’s Work fall into this category .
The allusive female assassin as likely to kill you as take you to bed. The crime syndicate bringing death and sorrow to society through drugs, prostitution and people trafficking. The lone agent out to bring order to this chaos and restore fairness where justice has been compromised by bribes and brutality.
The Red Cobra has all these elements and more. Action, revenge, female exploitation, the femme fatale, multiple fights and killings, blurred sense of right and wrong, government shady practises and raw emotion.
Beatings and torture are described in great detail while the weather is forgotten unless it undermines surveillance or the ability to escape.
That is not to say that such novels don’t have wide appeal. It is their relentless action, uncompromising betrayal and hopeless positions against the odds.
What places this story above the average fare is the back story and mystery brought to the characters. The flashbacks not only bring clarity, they show motivation and the depravity of human nature. This sense of a worse and common enemy is what drives such stories and desensitises the violence; baddies are evil and deserve to die. Karma exists but innocent lives are not usually “wasted” in most senses of the word. Good must be seen to be a whiter shade of grey.
A great read for those long journeys or dark nights. With a sense of place and time. Locations across the holiday destinations of Andalusia and a dark Berlin. A story you will want to read more the further you get into the book and that annoying aspect of the first one of a new series 10% left unsaid for the next instalment. In James Ryker we are introduced to an operative who used to follow orders but having retired is motivated by new forces. Less able to be controlled and more independent of mind. Such agents are often a liability and his hiding strategy is a protection from all players in the game in which he used to shine. Not really knowing who he can trust he is propelled into his former ways to look and kill the red cobra but others forces are at work.
A book worth reading, it will quicken your pulse and leave you breathless at times but the reward is an entertaining story, well worth all that effort from your armchair.
September 3, 2024
First book by this author, a first in a series, already behind as now already another eleven books in the series!!
James Ryker thought he’d gotten away from the chaos and violence of espionage. He couldn’t have been more wrong...
Carl Logan dedicated nearly twenty years to the Joint Intelligence Agency. Now living in a secret location, under the new identify of James Ryker, he wants nothing more than to be left alone to start a new life away from chaos, violence, destruction and deceit. It’s not long, however, before Ryker’s short-lived idyll is destroyed when he’s tracked down by Peter Winter, his ex-boss at the JIA.
Winter brings news of the murder of a woman in Spain, Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of one of Ryker’s former adversaries who’s been missing presumed dead for years—an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra. A cyber attack at the JIA led to the Red Cobra’s profile being compromised, and Winter believes JIA agents may now be at risk too, Ryker included. But Ryker knew the elusive Red Cobra better than anyone, and when he sees the grisly pictures of Kim Walker’s corpse, he has news for Winter—she isn’t the assassin at all . . .
The story flicks between present day and the past where we are introduced to a young girl called Anna. I really enjoyed finding out more about Anna but couldn’t help feeling sorry for her for the life she was having to live. In the present day it was great to catch back up with Carl who is obviously now living under a new name which took no time at all in getting used to.
A little slow in the middle, but built up to a strong and shocking end.
Four stars.
James Ryker thought he’d gotten away from the chaos and violence of espionage. He couldn’t have been more wrong...
Carl Logan dedicated nearly twenty years to the Joint Intelligence Agency. Now living in a secret location, under the new identify of James Ryker, he wants nothing more than to be left alone to start a new life away from chaos, violence, destruction and deceit. It’s not long, however, before Ryker’s short-lived idyll is destroyed when he’s tracked down by Peter Winter, his ex-boss at the JIA.
Winter brings news of the murder of a woman in Spain, Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of one of Ryker’s former adversaries who’s been missing presumed dead for years—an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra. A cyber attack at the JIA led to the Red Cobra’s profile being compromised, and Winter believes JIA agents may now be at risk too, Ryker included. But Ryker knew the elusive Red Cobra better than anyone, and when he sees the grisly pictures of Kim Walker’s corpse, he has news for Winter—she isn’t the assassin at all . . .
The story flicks between present day and the past where we are introduced to a young girl called Anna. I really enjoyed finding out more about Anna but couldn’t help feeling sorry for her for the life she was having to live. In the present day it was great to catch back up with Carl who is obviously now living under a new name which took no time at all in getting used to.
A little slow in the middle, but built up to a strong and shocking end.
Four stars.
April 4, 2017
James Ryker thinks he just wants to put his past behind him and live a peaceful life. The trouble is, we don’t always get, or know, what we want.
Crikey The Red Cobra opens with an action packed scene and it pretty well doesn’t let up for the rest of the novel. Short chapters with cliffhanger endings add a breathless pace so that The Red Cobra is a really exciting read. I genuinely found it heart-thumpingly exciting and the events even pervaded my dreams at night! There’s quite a bit of violence but Rob Sinclair also knows less is more so he is a master of suggestion as well as description making for an elevated pulse rate in his readers.
Speaking of description, I thought the details given were perfectly balanced so that I had a clear picture of people and places in my head without a single word of unnecessary padding so that I felt totally immersed in the narrative. I truly did exclaim aloud as I read as the imagery felt very visual, almost like watching a film, and I could easily envisage The Red Cobra as an exciting television series.
What I enjoyed so much was that this is not just a police procedural novel. Ryker has a past and he’s certainly not a policeman. There’s a psychological element that I found tightly plotted and intelligently written. There’s action, violence, pace and drama, but there’s relationships and reasoning too. I understood the motivations of the characters and loved the way Rob Sinclair uncovered the details as a drip feed so that I found out aspects at the same time as those in the book. This made me feel I was part of the action.
As I read the last paragraph I felt devastated that I didn’t have the next book in the series to leap into straight away. This is my first Rob Sinclair read, but what a book to begin with. The Red Cobra is exciting, well written and absorbing – definitely a ‘can’t put it down thriller’. I loved it.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/04/04/...
Crikey The Red Cobra opens with an action packed scene and it pretty well doesn’t let up for the rest of the novel. Short chapters with cliffhanger endings add a breathless pace so that The Red Cobra is a really exciting read. I genuinely found it heart-thumpingly exciting and the events even pervaded my dreams at night! There’s quite a bit of violence but Rob Sinclair also knows less is more so he is a master of suggestion as well as description making for an elevated pulse rate in his readers.
Speaking of description, I thought the details given were perfectly balanced so that I had a clear picture of people and places in my head without a single word of unnecessary padding so that I felt totally immersed in the narrative. I truly did exclaim aloud as I read as the imagery felt very visual, almost like watching a film, and I could easily envisage The Red Cobra as an exciting television series.
What I enjoyed so much was that this is not just a police procedural novel. Ryker has a past and he’s certainly not a policeman. There’s a psychological element that I found tightly plotted and intelligently written. There’s action, violence, pace and drama, but there’s relationships and reasoning too. I understood the motivations of the characters and loved the way Rob Sinclair uncovered the details as a drip feed so that I found out aspects at the same time as those in the book. This made me feel I was part of the action.
As I read the last paragraph I felt devastated that I didn’t have the next book in the series to leap into straight away. This is my first Rob Sinclair read, but what a book to begin with. The Red Cobra is exciting, well written and absorbing – definitely a ‘can’t put it down thriller’. I loved it.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/04/04/...
April 8, 2017
Carl Logan is a character from the authors Enemy series. As this is a spin off from the Enemy series, you don’t have to have read them before reading this. Saying that though I think this may more than tempt you to go and read them all.
I have to say, for me, I personally think this is the authors best novel to date. As much as I have enjoyed his others, this is totally in a league of its own. I have to admit I’m not usually a big reader of action thrillers but boy I was well and truly hooked and struggled to put it down.
The Red Cobra is a female assassin and boy is she good at her job. I love a strong female character in a novel and it makes a change from the stereo typical woman being weak and needing a man to help her. This woman is a law unto herself and even Logan/Ryker has reason to be concerned when her name resurfaces back in his life.
The story flicks between present day and the past where we are introduced to a young girl called Anna. I really enjoyed finding out more about Anna but couldn’t help feeling sorry for her for the life she was having to live. In the present day it was great to catch back up with Carl who is obviously now living under a new name which took no time at all in getting used to.
The Red Cobra is one fast paced, action packed, thrill of a read. It is actually screaming out to be put on the big screen. Who needs Lara Croft when you have The Red Cobra? Without a doubt this is a fantastic start to a new series and I am literally counting the days down until the author quenches my thirst for more.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
I have to say, for me, I personally think this is the authors best novel to date. As much as I have enjoyed his others, this is totally in a league of its own. I have to admit I’m not usually a big reader of action thrillers but boy I was well and truly hooked and struggled to put it down.
The Red Cobra is a female assassin and boy is she good at her job. I love a strong female character in a novel and it makes a change from the stereo typical woman being weak and needing a man to help her. This woman is a law unto herself and even Logan/Ryker has reason to be concerned when her name resurfaces back in his life.
The story flicks between present day and the past where we are introduced to a young girl called Anna. I really enjoyed finding out more about Anna but couldn’t help feeling sorry for her for the life she was having to live. In the present day it was great to catch back up with Carl who is obviously now living under a new name which took no time at all in getting used to.
The Red Cobra is one fast paced, action packed, thrill of a read. It is actually screaming out to be put on the big screen. Who needs Lara Croft when you have The Red Cobra? Without a doubt this is a fantastic start to a new series and I am literally counting the days down until the author quenches my thirst for more.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 2, 2017
Another amazing book in which is sure to be an excellent series. I’ve read quite a few Rob Sinclair novels, and I’ve absolutely enjoyed every one of them. He has a great writing style that draws you into the story, and there is always something happening. James Ryker thought he had finally disappeared from his previous life as a special operator for JIA, and set up a new life with Lisa. However his ex-boss Peter Winter managed to track him down, and talk him into another mission. They thought the assassin, the Red Cobra was killed years ago, and they are surprised when a lady with her fingerprints has been murdered recently in Spain. So Ryker is sent off to investigate, and of course he doesn’t believe Anna Abayev, the Red Cobra, could possibly have been killed that easily. There are those in Spain that aren’t too keen when Ryker starts poking around and asking questions. With some of the local police being corrupt, he is going to have to be very careful that he makes it out of there alive. Fantastic characters and an interesting plot, have made this a very enjoyable book to read. I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment.
March 25, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This is not the first time I have read a book by this author which is the main reason why I chose to review this one for him. However this is not really the type of book I would normally read because it involves, the mafia, the mob, and assassins and I am just not into that type of thing.
This is however a thriller which helps the story along a lot. I find them quite exciting and adventurous, and I have to say that the pacing of the book is very fast so the book moves along pretty quickly, and I enjoy that very much. I found the plot to be very engaging despite the Mafia/mob elements in the story. I do have to warn though, that this is a pretty graphic story, no holds barred for sure and I am a bit squeamish with that sort of thing. There are a lot of twists and surprises in this book and one HUGE cliffhanger at the end.
The characters in this book, I found to be very well developed. I had a hard time disliking the main 'bad guy', in this case, a girl, The Red Cobra. I feel like she got handed the wrong end of the deal, kind of a child of circumstance if you will. I have to say that she really grew on me hard core. There are other characters in here who are more vile than Satan himself and you will love to hate them.
If you don't mind graphic situations, blood and gore, but you love Thrillers or even Mafia based novels than you will for sure enjoy this one. Even for those of us who don't necessarily enjoy Mobbish based books or the blood and gore part of things, can enjoy the fast paced, adrenalin pumping action in this one.
This is however a thriller which helps the story along a lot. I find them quite exciting and adventurous, and I have to say that the pacing of the book is very fast so the book moves along pretty quickly, and I enjoy that very much. I found the plot to be very engaging despite the Mafia/mob elements in the story. I do have to warn though, that this is a pretty graphic story, no holds barred for sure and I am a bit squeamish with that sort of thing. There are a lot of twists and surprises in this book and one HUGE cliffhanger at the end.
The characters in this book, I found to be very well developed. I had a hard time disliking the main 'bad guy', in this case, a girl, The Red Cobra. I feel like she got handed the wrong end of the deal, kind of a child of circumstance if you will. I have to say that she really grew on me hard core. There are other characters in here who are more vile than Satan himself and you will love to hate them.
If you don't mind graphic situations, blood and gore, but you love Thrillers or even Mafia based novels than you will for sure enjoy this one. Even for those of us who don't necessarily enjoy Mobbish based books or the blood and gore part of things, can enjoy the fast paced, adrenalin pumping action in this one.
July 6, 2019
2,5
Entertaining enough but also average and cartoonish. The characters are superficial and this author should refrain from stereotyping people. Slavs are members of the most numerous ethnic and linguistic body of peoples in Europe and I think neither this author nor his fictional characters are able to recognize one when they see him in person by his facial bone structure.
Neverthless,a quick and rather uninspiring read.
Entertaining enough but also average and cartoonish. The characters are superficial and this author should refrain from stereotyping people. Slavs are members of the most numerous ethnic and linguistic body of peoples in Europe and I think neither this author nor his fictional characters are able to recognize one when they see him in person by his facial bone structure.
Neverthless,a quick and rather uninspiring read.
April 8, 2017
Brilliantly crafted high-octane thriller with echoes of Robert Ludlum’s infamous Bourne novels!
The Red Cobra is not only Rob Sinclair’s best work to date but it lends the word “page-turner” a whole new meaning. Combining breathless action with intriguing plot twists and great characters, who you will either cheer for or hate them from the get go, depending on which side they are on!
The lead Carl Logan aka James Ryker is as bolt and forthright as ever, while at the same time having a quite vulnerable and heart-warming side to himself. And the Red Cobra brings something fresh and intriguing to the table!
To cut it short. If you enjoyed Sinclair’s Enemy series, Ludlum’s Bourne novels or any other high-octane action… THIS IS FOR YOU!!!
The Red Cobra is not only Rob Sinclair’s best work to date but it lends the word “page-turner” a whole new meaning. Combining breathless action with intriguing plot twists and great characters, who you will either cheer for or hate them from the get go, depending on which side they are on!
The lead Carl Logan aka James Ryker is as bolt and forthright as ever, while at the same time having a quite vulnerable and heart-warming side to himself. And the Red Cobra brings something fresh and intriguing to the table!
To cut it short. If you enjoyed Sinclair’s Enemy series, Ludlum’s Bourne novels or any other high-octane action… THIS IS FOR YOU!!!
March 27, 2017
I was completely devastated at the end of the Enemy trilogy although I did have that inkling. I am so happy to have been right cos I really missed Carl Logan. I can even forgive him his name change although he'll always be Logan to me. Although Carl/James has a whole backstory, it is not necessary to have read the Enemy books to enjoy this although I would say that you would get a bit of a better feeling for him as a person, a character, if you do read them first. They are also really good so, why not?
So, we catch up with "James Ryker" living in seclusion with girlfriend Lisa. Then, one day, a blast from the past contacts him and ask for his help. I say asks, but once the reason is out there, it's pretty obvious that it was not really a request. The Red Cobra is dead. Probably. Anyway, a woman who identifies as the Red Cobra is dead, In Spain. Although, the thing is, she was already missing, presumed dead. Ryker, one of the few people to have got close to the assassin in the past, on seeing a picture of the dead woman, confirms that this woman was not the woman he knew as the Red Cobra. As there are many repercussions from this, notably the safety of other JIA agents from a cyber attack which compromised their servers, Ryker has no option but to help his former colleagues. But, can he really go back to that world, a world that has not always been kind to him. What of his relationship with Lisa? But, with lives at risk, she'll understand... won't she?
Well, I thought the Enemy series was good. I still do, but this book just took it up a notch. I am still very excited that Logan is back. I can't call him Ryker, it doesn't feel right. He is just as I remember him. A little bit dodgy but with a good heart. A lone wolf and a maverick, a bad boy, but there's something about bad boys eh?! In this book he has to contend with the Spanish Police as the action takes place in their jurisdiction. With the husband of the dead woman not playing ball, he has to bend and break rules to get what he needs to get to the bottom of it all.
As well as this main story, we also get to know the woman we know as the Red Cobra. We follow Anna as she grows up in not really the best place, learn how she copes, how she eventually learns the truth and how she eventually faces it. This is told in flashback, little snatches interspersed into the present day narrative at just the right time to be reflected in the main story.
As we reach the climax of it all, as the action ramps up towards the end of the book, we learn the truth. I say "learn" the truth, what I really mean is that the truth sneaks up behind us, spins us around and smacks us in the mouth. Woah, never saw that coming. Wow!
This is obviously the start of a new series, or trilogy, or whatever, anyway, there's another book. That's obvious from the ending of this one. A kind of cliffhanger but not a cliffhanger to this book, more of a teaser to the next book. I don't like cliffhangers, but I can take this teaser! My only request is that the author writes and publishes the next one quickly because I really need to know!
So, we catch up with "James Ryker" living in seclusion with girlfriend Lisa. Then, one day, a blast from the past contacts him and ask for his help. I say asks, but once the reason is out there, it's pretty obvious that it was not really a request. The Red Cobra is dead. Probably. Anyway, a woman who identifies as the Red Cobra is dead, In Spain. Although, the thing is, she was already missing, presumed dead. Ryker, one of the few people to have got close to the assassin in the past, on seeing a picture of the dead woman, confirms that this woman was not the woman he knew as the Red Cobra. As there are many repercussions from this, notably the safety of other JIA agents from a cyber attack which compromised their servers, Ryker has no option but to help his former colleagues. But, can he really go back to that world, a world that has not always been kind to him. What of his relationship with Lisa? But, with lives at risk, she'll understand... won't she?
Well, I thought the Enemy series was good. I still do, but this book just took it up a notch. I am still very excited that Logan is back. I can't call him Ryker, it doesn't feel right. He is just as I remember him. A little bit dodgy but with a good heart. A lone wolf and a maverick, a bad boy, but there's something about bad boys eh?! In this book he has to contend with the Spanish Police as the action takes place in their jurisdiction. With the husband of the dead woman not playing ball, he has to bend and break rules to get what he needs to get to the bottom of it all.
As well as this main story, we also get to know the woman we know as the Red Cobra. We follow Anna as she grows up in not really the best place, learn how she copes, how she eventually learns the truth and how she eventually faces it. This is told in flashback, little snatches interspersed into the present day narrative at just the right time to be reflected in the main story.
As we reach the climax of it all, as the action ramps up towards the end of the book, we learn the truth. I say "learn" the truth, what I really mean is that the truth sneaks up behind us, spins us around and smacks us in the mouth. Woah, never saw that coming. Wow!
This is obviously the start of a new series, or trilogy, or whatever, anyway, there's another book. That's obvious from the ending of this one. A kind of cliffhanger but not a cliffhanger to this book, more of a teaser to the next book. I don't like cliffhangers, but I can take this teaser! My only request is that the author writes and publishes the next one quickly because I really need to know!
April 11, 2017
Actual rating 4.5*
When I heard Rob Sinclair was continuing the Carl Logan story, I was delighted. I loved the Enemy series when I read them last year so I was desperate to see what Logan was up to…..but no Carl Logan is no more!!! Introducing James Ryker, living the quiet life with his wife Lisa in the US.
The Red Cobra opens with a rather gruesome first chapter and even first line “She wiped the bloodied knife”. What more do you need to grab your attention?! The story that follows plots the history of the Red Cobra alongside Ryker’s mission even though he no longer an agent for the JIA….in fact he’s meant to be dead! But it’s amazing what a dead man can do…..
I loved the sedate backdrop of the Spanish countryside, the small villages and towns in the hillsides, the tapas bars, even the traditional bull fighting venues. I felt I was there basking in the Iberian sunshine alongside Ryker chasing the elusive Red Cobra.
I have to admit, having read all Mr Sinclair’s book now, I much prefer the Logan/Ryker novels. I don’t really read many action thrillers but the author’s writing really captures my imagination and leaves me wanting more, in a good way!! The Red Cobra is definitely no different, I can not wait to see what faces Ryker next #nospoiler…..
This novel is action packed and Logan….I mean Ryker is back with a bang!!
Big thanks to Bloodhound Books for my advanced reader copy of The Red Cobra. Bring on book 2!!
When I heard Rob Sinclair was continuing the Carl Logan story, I was delighted. I loved the Enemy series when I read them last year so I was desperate to see what Logan was up to…..but no Carl Logan is no more!!! Introducing James Ryker, living the quiet life with his wife Lisa in the US.
The Red Cobra opens with a rather gruesome first chapter and even first line “She wiped the bloodied knife”. What more do you need to grab your attention?! The story that follows plots the history of the Red Cobra alongside Ryker’s mission even though he no longer an agent for the JIA….in fact he’s meant to be dead! But it’s amazing what a dead man can do…..
I loved the sedate backdrop of the Spanish countryside, the small villages and towns in the hillsides, the tapas bars, even the traditional bull fighting venues. I felt I was there basking in the Iberian sunshine alongside Ryker chasing the elusive Red Cobra.
I have to admit, having read all Mr Sinclair’s book now, I much prefer the Logan/Ryker novels. I don’t really read many action thrillers but the author’s writing really captures my imagination and leaves me wanting more, in a good way!! The Red Cobra is definitely no different, I can not wait to see what faces Ryker next #nospoiler…..
This novel is action packed and Logan….I mean Ryker is back with a bang!!
Big thanks to Bloodhound Books for my advanced reader copy of The Red Cobra. Bring on book 2!!
March 30, 2017
I have been looking forward to The Red Cobra since the end of the Enemy trilogy and my super hero Carl Logan. Now living in a secret location, under the new identify of James Ryker, he wants nothing more than to be left alone, the chance to start a new life away from chaos, violence, destruction and deceit. It is not long before James is tracked down by his ex-boss from the JIA and is talked into another mission.
In this book Carl/James is in Spain and on the hunt for the violent murderer of pregnant Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra.
As with the Enemy series, this book is fast paced and action packed with lots of blood and gore and is a real page turner. Lots of great characters, good and evil.
And that ending ..... I now NEED more James Ryker and hopefully it won’t be too long for the follow up The Black Hornet.
I can highly recommend this brilliant book by the master of action, Rob Sinclair.
In this book Carl/James is in Spain and on the hunt for the violent murderer of pregnant Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra.
As with the Enemy series, this book is fast paced and action packed with lots of blood and gore and is a real page turner. Lots of great characters, good and evil.
And that ending ..... I now NEED more James Ryker and hopefully it won’t be too long for the follow up The Black Hornet.
I can highly recommend this brilliant book by the master of action, Rob Sinclair.
April 2, 2017
This is a relatively new genre for me and, once again, I have not been disappointed.
I would think Rob Sinclair might rival some of the greats in his field. His writing is tight, current and gripping. He weaves easily between settings and great characters –there appear to be quite a few. And the pace is compelling.
This all leads on to a most excellent ending.
I’m looking forward to the next release by this talented writer.
I would think Rob Sinclair might rival some of the greats in his field. His writing is tight, current and gripping. He weaves easily between settings and great characters –there appear to be quite a few. And the pace is compelling.
This all leads on to a most excellent ending.
I’m looking forward to the next release by this talented writer.
April 4, 2017
This is the first book I have read by Rob Sinclair so I was unsure what to expect.
The book is centred around the government agencies that operate under the radar that we all know exist.
James Ryker, formerly Carl Logan, thought he had finished with his life on the edge as a secret agent. He is assumed dead and reinvented himself and began a new life (or so he thought) but is found by his former boss and persuaded to find and kill an old adversary, The Red Cobra.
Although it is not my usual preference of book I found myself totally gripped and turning page after page following Ryker's near death experiences as he finds himself tangled up in situations he doesn’t understand with people wanting to kill him coming at him from all angles.
Ryker is a very complex character that develops well as the book progresses. I understand this is the first book in a series that is a spin off from another series that features Carl Logan. This sister series is now on my 'to read' list. Given that there are several books building Ryker's character I was surprised at how easily I got to know him. Rob Sinclair has very skillfully enabled the character to become known to the reader without referring back to previous books which makes this book work really well as stand alone (although I will definitely be reading the next book).
The Red Cobra: what can I say the character is sheer brilliance and involves a real twist to her tail. She is evil but totally loveable and the love hate relationship between her and Ryker really make the book. I think Red Cobra is the badness in me waiting to get out. I would have liked to find out how she survived the cliff jump but that is a small regret compared to all the boxes that this book ticked for me.
A different but absolutely brilliant book that just proved that it sometimes pays to read something against the norm. I loved it and am eagerly waiting for more.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books who provided me with a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
#bloodhoundbook #amreviewing #thankspublishers #5stars #thrillerseries #robsinclair #booksnall
The book is centred around the government agencies that operate under the radar that we all know exist.
James Ryker, formerly Carl Logan, thought he had finished with his life on the edge as a secret agent. He is assumed dead and reinvented himself and began a new life (or so he thought) but is found by his former boss and persuaded to find and kill an old adversary, The Red Cobra.
Although it is not my usual preference of book I found myself totally gripped and turning page after page following Ryker's near death experiences as he finds himself tangled up in situations he doesn’t understand with people wanting to kill him coming at him from all angles.
Ryker is a very complex character that develops well as the book progresses. I understand this is the first book in a series that is a spin off from another series that features Carl Logan. This sister series is now on my 'to read' list. Given that there are several books building Ryker's character I was surprised at how easily I got to know him. Rob Sinclair has very skillfully enabled the character to become known to the reader without referring back to previous books which makes this book work really well as stand alone (although I will definitely be reading the next book).
The Red Cobra: what can I say the character is sheer brilliance and involves a real twist to her tail. She is evil but totally loveable and the love hate relationship between her and Ryker really make the book. I think Red Cobra is the badness in me waiting to get out. I would have liked to find out how she survived the cliff jump but that is a small regret compared to all the boxes that this book ticked for me.
A different but absolutely brilliant book that just proved that it sometimes pays to read something against the norm. I loved it and am eagerly waiting for more.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books who provided me with a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
#bloodhoundbook #amreviewing #thankspublishers #5stars #thrillerseries #robsinclair #booksnall
April 5, 2017
OMG,OMG,OMG I was bouncing off the walls when I realised Carl Logan is back with a new identity in a brand new series The Red Corba. After being gutted when the Enemy series ended. Just in case you didn't know I am a massive fan... lol. But Rob Sinclair has pulled out all the punches with this latest story, it is without a doubt his best book yet….. I freaking loved it.
Carl Logan who is now know has Jack Ryker who worked for Joint Intelligence Agency living in a secret location, and just wants a quiet life. Which is short lived when when he is tracked down by Peter Winter, his ex-boss at the JIA. Winter brings with him news of the murder of a woman in Spain, Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of one of Ryker’s former adversaries who’s been missing presumed dead for years - an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra. The story takes a turn and it appears she isn't The Red Corba. So the question who is this woman and where is The Red Cobra?!
Whoop whoop not only is Carl Logan in this story who I must admit I do have a soft spot for but we also have a strong, kick ass female assassin in it. Well It can't get any better than that! Well it certainly couldn't for me. I read this In one day I couldn't turn the pages quick enough. This is a story that will grab you round the throat and not let you go until the very last page, with an OMFG ending. Where I was totally on the edge of my seat biting my nails!
This can be read has a standalone, fans old and new will love it to. There is nothing not to like with this action packed thriller and plenty of twists and turns I cannot wait until the next one.
This is a must read for fans of Lee Child and Robert Ludlum which I cannot recommend enough giving it 5 massive stars.
Carl Logan who is now know has Jack Ryker who worked for Joint Intelligence Agency living in a secret location, and just wants a quiet life. Which is short lived when when he is tracked down by Peter Winter, his ex-boss at the JIA. Winter brings with him news of the murder of a woman in Spain, Kim Walker, whose fingerprints match those of one of Ryker’s former adversaries who’s been missing presumed dead for years - an infamous female assassin known as the Red Cobra. The story takes a turn and it appears she isn't The Red Corba. So the question who is this woman and where is The Red Cobra?!
Whoop whoop not only is Carl Logan in this story who I must admit I do have a soft spot for but we also have a strong, kick ass female assassin in it. Well It can't get any better than that! Well it certainly couldn't for me. I read this In one day I couldn't turn the pages quick enough. This is a story that will grab you round the throat and not let you go until the very last page, with an OMFG ending. Where I was totally on the edge of my seat biting my nails!
This can be read has a standalone, fans old and new will love it to. There is nothing not to like with this action packed thriller and plenty of twists and turns I cannot wait until the next one.
This is a must read for fans of Lee Child and Robert Ludlum which I cannot recommend enough giving it 5 massive stars.
April 4, 2017
The setting is, Marbella and Mijas, in Southern Spain. The author conjures up the colours and scents of the area.
Carl Logan worked for the Joint Intelligence Agency for 20 years, until he resigned and reinvented himself as James Ryker. He was not reckoning on being found until his ex-boss Peter Winter gets in touch.
Fingerprints found at the scene of a murder, the victim, match those of the infamous Red Cobra. She was an assassin who went missing years ago.
Red Cobra was left at Winter's Retreat by her father before he disappeared. When she was finally able to break free after a killing, she went to look for her father. He was not what she knew of him, and it turns out that she also has the gift of murder. The Red Cobra was born.
It transpires that a cyber attack at the JIA has compromised security and the profile of its personnel, including Ryker, is at risk.
Ryker eventually discovers that Kim Walker was not the Red Cobra. He breaks the news but more worryingly, where is she?
The main characters are very well depicted, if not all likeable. The plot tight.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to Bloodhound Books for this opportunity.
Carl Logan worked for the Joint Intelligence Agency for 20 years, until he resigned and reinvented himself as James Ryker. He was not reckoning on being found until his ex-boss Peter Winter gets in touch.
Fingerprints found at the scene of a murder, the victim, match those of the infamous Red Cobra. She was an assassin who went missing years ago.
Red Cobra was left at Winter's Retreat by her father before he disappeared. When she was finally able to break free after a killing, she went to look for her father. He was not what she knew of him, and it turns out that she also has the gift of murder. The Red Cobra was born.
It transpires that a cyber attack at the JIA has compromised security and the profile of its personnel, including Ryker, is at risk.
Ryker eventually discovers that Kim Walker was not the Red Cobra. He breaks the news but more worryingly, where is she?
The main characters are very well depicted, if not all likeable. The plot tight.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to Bloodhound Books for this opportunity.
November 16, 2020
This is the first book in a sequel series to the The Enemy trilogy, which probably should have been reason enough for me to stay away from it given how very annoyed I was by the end of that trilogy. But sometimes I just can't leave well enough alone, so here we are.
Protagonist Carl Logan, now living under a new name as James Ryker, has quit his job and is trying to settle down in civilian life when his former boss tracks him down. A woman has been brutally murdered in Spain, and her fingerprints have come back as matching those of an assassin known as the Red Cobra Logan/Ryker tangled with years before - but while her prints match, her face doesn't. Ryker is sent to find out what is really going on - who is this woman, why was she murdered, is the real Red Cobra involved? - and if the Red Cobra does turn up, take her out.
The book follows the familiar pattern of consisting of half flashbacks, half present day story. As I was a lot more interested in the Anna/Red Cobra backstory, despite its inherent clichés, than in Ryker's gun-toting, bullying macho antics, I actually liked the flashbacks for once. Still don't like the protagonist, but this one was somewhat more entertaining than the previous books. Liked the twist regarding the Red Cobra's indentity.
Protagonist Carl Logan, now living under a new name as James Ryker, has quit his job and is trying to settle down in civilian life when his former boss tracks him down. A woman has been brutally murdered in Spain, and her fingerprints have come back as matching those of an assassin known as the Red Cobra Logan/Ryker tangled with years before - but while her prints match, her face doesn't. Ryker is sent to find out what is really going on - who is this woman, why was she murdered, is the real Red Cobra involved? - and if the Red Cobra does turn up, take her out.
The book follows the familiar pattern of consisting of half flashbacks, half present day story. As I was a lot more interested in the Anna/Red Cobra backstory, despite its inherent clichés, than in Ryker's gun-toting, bullying macho antics, I actually liked the flashbacks for once. Still don't like the protagonist, but this one was somewhat more entertaining than the previous books. Liked the twist regarding the Red Cobra's indentity.
April 10, 2017
This is a spin off series featuring James Ryker (The name that Carl Logan is now living under).
I’m not normally an overly enthusiastic fan of action thrillers like this but Rob Sinclair seems to write thrillers that are enjoyed by a much wider audience. He has an involving writing style that means you become completely submerged in the action and the plot right from the start. His characters are all ones that the reader can relate to especially his female characters who are strong, confident, kick ass heroines! I loved The Red Cobra although I wasn’t totally convinced if I should be so supportive of her, considering her past actions. I liked Lisa too even though we didn’t get to see as much of her here as I had expected.
This is the sort of book I enjoy reading in long sessions and I read it in one afternoon, totally gripped by the action packed thrills that just kept on coming. The twists and turns of the plot kept me in my toes throughout and just when I thought I knew where it was going another would be thrown into the mix. The Red Cobra is a great high octane start to this new series and I anticipate more intriguing thrills to come as it develops in the future.
I’m not normally an overly enthusiastic fan of action thrillers like this but Rob Sinclair seems to write thrillers that are enjoyed by a much wider audience. He has an involving writing style that means you become completely submerged in the action and the plot right from the start. His characters are all ones that the reader can relate to especially his female characters who are strong, confident, kick ass heroines! I loved The Red Cobra although I wasn’t totally convinced if I should be so supportive of her, considering her past actions. I liked Lisa too even though we didn’t get to see as much of her here as I had expected.
This is the sort of book I enjoy reading in long sessions and I read it in one afternoon, totally gripped by the action packed thrills that just kept on coming. The twists and turns of the plot kept me in my toes throughout and just when I thought I knew where it was going another would be thrown into the mix. The Red Cobra is a great high octane start to this new series and I anticipate more intriguing thrills to come as it develops in the future.
April 20, 2017
I would like to thank Helen at TBC and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this, which I voluntarily reviewed.
This is an excellent spy thriller which moves easily from past to present.
The action grabs you at page 1 and doesn't let up until the end.
It's not a book for the faint-hearted as there is plenty of violence, but none of it's gratuitous.
I like most of the characters as they were well-drawn and you saw their good and bad traits. Anna was my favourite even though, technically she was a "baddie".
I don't usually read books in this genre but this has altered my opinion. I will definitely be reading more of Rob Sinclair's books.
This is an excellent spy thriller which moves easily from past to present.
The action grabs you at page 1 and doesn't let up until the end.
It's not a book for the faint-hearted as there is plenty of violence, but none of it's gratuitous.
I like most of the characters as they were well-drawn and you saw their good and bad traits. Anna was my favourite even though, technically she was a "baddie".
I don't usually read books in this genre but this has altered my opinion. I will definitely be reading more of Rob Sinclair's books.
Read
April 1, 2017Anna is left by her father in “Winter’s retreat” where she cares for ex servicemen. Through befriending one of the men she gets to know more about her father- a man she is surprised to learn has a completely different side from anything she ever thought. James Ryker and his partner Lisa have retired from their past lives to live quietly away from it all- until they get a visitor asking James to find out why his old ally has been killed. This is not my usual read and I was pleasantly surprised how quickly I got into it. It draws you in from the start. Short snappy chapters keep a fast moving pace and the characters build before your eyes. The story has pace, history and entertainment in spades. A recommended read.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
April 4, 2017
I'd like to give a round of applause to Rob Sinclair for the re-introduction of Carl Logan, or now known as James Ryker. When I first started The Red Cobra, I honestly wasn't sold on the idea of Carl Logan now being James Ryker. I guess it was because this was the first time I've read a series where this has happened. But, the further into the story I got, I began to understand why this new identity was necessary. James Ryker was still Carl Logan, but so much more than that, too. A Carl Logan version 2.0, perhaps? Everything that happened to Logan in the Enemy series really had an impact on him. He no longer went through life an empty shell; his past now had an emotional effect on him. Even though I could see the change in character happening in Hunt for the Enemy, I definitely didn't fully appreciate that change until now.
The storyline was another success for Sinclair. It was fast paced, gut wrenching, and a little mysterious as us readers learned about the infamous Red Cobra. I tend to read a lot before bed, and found myself trying to solve the puzzle after I had put the book down for the night. Usually that just led to me picking it back up again for another chapter or two. Or four ;).
As usual, Sinclair has left me on the edge of my seat as I await for the next adventure for James Ryker.
The storyline was another success for Sinclair. It was fast paced, gut wrenching, and a little mysterious as us readers learned about the infamous Red Cobra. I tend to read a lot before bed, and found myself trying to solve the puzzle after I had put the book down for the night. Usually that just led to me picking it back up again for another chapter or two. Or four ;).
As usual, Sinclair has left me on the edge of my seat as I await for the next adventure for James Ryker.
January 27, 2019
Odlicna! Procitana u jednom dahu!
April 2, 2017
This is a relatively new genre for me and, once again, I have not been disappointed.
I would think Rob Sinclair might rival some of the greats in his field. His writing is tight, current and gripping. He weaves easily between settings and great characters –there appear to be quite a few. And the pace is compelling.
This all leads on to a most excellent ending.
I’m looking forward to the next release by this talented writer.
I would think Rob Sinclair might rival some of the greats in his field. His writing is tight, current and gripping. He weaves easily between settings and great characters –there appear to be quite a few. And the pace is compelling.
This all leads on to a most excellent ending.
I’m looking forward to the next release by this talented writer.
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