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Marcus Ryker #1
The Kremlin Conspiracy
New York Times bestselling author Joel C. Rosenberg returns with a high-stakes political thriller set in Russia.
Everything he learned to protect the president, he must use to take out theirs.
With an American president distracted by growing tensions in North Korea and Iran, an ominous new threat is emerging in Moscow. A czar is rising in the Kremlin, a Russian president feverishly consolidating power, silencing his opposition, and plotting a brazen and lightning-fast military strike that could rupture the NATO alliance and bring Washington and Moscow to the brink of nuclear war. But in his blind spot is the former U.S. Secret Service agent, Marcus Ryker, trained to protect but ready to kill to save his country.
Everything he learned to protect the president, he must use to take out theirs.
With an American president distracted by growing tensions in North Korea and Iran, an ominous new threat is emerging in Moscow. A czar is rising in the Kremlin, a Russian president feverishly consolidating power, silencing his opposition, and plotting a brazen and lightning-fast military strike that could rupture the NATO alliance and bring Washington and Moscow to the brink of nuclear war. But in his blind spot is the former U.S. Secret Service agent, Marcus Ryker, trained to protect but ready to kill to save his country.
470 pages, Hardcover
First published March 6, 2018
5900 people are currently reading
6938 people want to read
About the author
Joel C. Rosenberg
56 books3,016 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Note: This is a different person than the fantasy author, Joel Rosenberg
Joel C. Rosenberg is the founder of The Joshua Fund and the New York Times best-selling author of THE LAST JIHAD (2002), THE LAST DAYS (2003), THE EZEKIEL OPTION (2005), THE COPPER SCROLL (2006), EPICENTER (2006) and DEAD HEAT (2008) with more than 1.5 million copies in print. THE EZEKIEL OPTION was named by the ECPA as the Gold Medallion winner of the "Best Novel of 2006." Joel, an evangelical Christian whose mother is Gentile and whose father is from an Orthodox Jewish background, previously worked with several U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Steve Forbes, former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows.
He and his wife have four sons and live near Washington, DC.
Note: This is a different person than the fantasy author, Joel Rosenberg
Joel C. Rosenberg is the founder of The Joshua Fund and the New York Times best-selling author of THE LAST JIHAD (2002), THE LAST DAYS (2003), THE EZEKIEL OPTION (2005), THE COPPER SCROLL (2006), EPICENTER (2006) and DEAD HEAT (2008) with more than 1.5 million copies in print. THE EZEKIEL OPTION was named by the ECPA as the Gold Medallion winner of the "Best Novel of 2006." Joel, an evangelical Christian whose mother is Gentile and whose father is from an Orthodox Jewish background, previously worked with several U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Steve Forbes, former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows.
He and his wife have four sons and live near Washington, DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,088 reviews
March 16, 2018
Joel C. Rosenberg is back with another stellar novel that explores the current international political climate with stunning accuracy, leaving the reader to wonder just how close to non-fiction the story might become over the next few years. Aleksandr Ivanovich Luganov is the prime minister of Russia in 1999 when numerous apartment bombs have been exploding across Moscow. With an ailing president, Luganov assumes the role and chooses Oleg Kraskin to be one of his senior aides. Kraskin, shocked by this, is honoured and admits in the early narrative to be dating Luganov’s daughter. He hopes to marry her in short order and broaches the subject with Luganov in the early chapters. Working with Luganov, Kraskin sees his boss assume the role of President of the Russian Federation with hopes of putting Mother Russia back in her place of prominence. Across the globe, young Marcus Ryker is living in Colorado and hoping to make a name for himself. When he witnesses the attacks on September 11, 2001, he sees a chance to serve the United States in its military efforts. A courageous mission sees him almost lose his life and he decides to find new (and safer?) ways to serve. With a wife and a young son, Ryker joins the Secret Service, hoping to find his niche. While Ryker is rising the ranks and protecting significant political players, Kraskin is back in Russia and watching President Luganov begin a game of political chess as he seeks to reclaim some of the old Soviet territories, with an eye on Ukraine and some of the other breakaway republics. Kraskin becomes leery of his father-in-law, particularly when even those closest to him seem expendable. A devastating crime in Washington forces Marcus Ryker to rethink his future, and pushes him to a crisis of faith, if only for a time. Ryker has much to offer, but is rudderless and drifting around in a mental fog. After devising a plan to strike three NATO allies and keep the Americans in the dark, Kraskin can no longer watch Luganov flex his political muscle. With the Russians prepared to begin their military attacks and armed with significant nuclear weapons, Kraskin must make a decision. Ryker is offered an interesting job that sees him use some of his past experiences, though no longer formally employed by the American Government. There, Ryker faces a decision could not only affect his future, but that of the entire US Administration. Can either man risk everything to save their respective countries from a nuclear End of Days that not even the Book of Revelation could have predicted? Rosenberg delivers a brilliant piece that fans of his novels will surely enjoy. As always, new fans will likely flock to this book, which may foretell an interesting next round in geo-political manoeuvres.
I have long enjoyed Rosenberg’s novels, not only for their content, but also because they have been close to spot-on with their predictions. He understands all the actors and the political temperatures, putting it all into a digestible novel for those who love stories ripped from the headlines. Here, Rosenberg provides what most will see as a veiled story of the rise of Putin in Russia, though there are enough vague descriptors to leave the reader some leeway in their interpretation. Ruling the country with an iron fist, Aleksandr Ivanovich Luganov proves to be not only a new Russian Czar, but also one who is prepared to poke the hornet’s nest in hopes of pushing the world to a new war. And while his predecessors may not have been ready to push the red button, Rosenberg creates this czar as happy to do whatever it takes, nuclear obliteration or not. Kraskin is an interesting character as well, though his timidity seems to work only at certain times. There is surely much to this man who tries to juggle his personal sentiments with the knowledge that his father-in-law is becoming a dictator as ruthless as Stalin. Trying to do what he feels is right may come at the ultimate cost, though Kraskin may be ready to lose it all, including his family, to save Russia. With both strong parallels and sharp contrasts, Marcus Ryker is the third central character in the novel. As Rosenberg shows throughout, Ryker grew into himself through a number of key life moments, all of which shaped the man he became. Like Kraskin, the reader is able to see Ryker’s development over the years through to the tumultuous climax of the novel. Personal loss and extreme emotional strain met Ryker head-on, though he never shied away from bearing it all in an effort to bring justice to a world riddled with disparity. The story is not only on point, but Rosenberg’s writing helps pull the reader into the centre; as though they are in the middle of each meeting, participating in every dialogue, and able to feel each sentiment the characters exude. Politically powerful, the ideological divide is clearly on offer, as is the attempt by Luganov to resurrect the Mother Russia persona in his own image, much as is being done currently within the Kremlin. Rosenberg is a staunch conservative and admits as much, but even he could not create a POTUS that would align with the Russian Czar and for that I am eternally grateful. We need some degree of fiction and this was surely a portion of the novel that does not parallel the current political situation. Rosenberg’s writing is some of the best I have read in the genre, though some readers will want fair warning that he also pushes a strong Christian theme throughout. Prayers, reference to Scripture, and even the occasional crisis of faith (whereby the character must turn to God and Jesus to overcome something). While I prefer to steer clear of this, Rosenberg has toned things down and no longer inculcates us heathen readers with seeing the Light as we try to enjoy a political thriller. Many of Rosenberg’s predictions in past series have come true, alarmingly not long after a book is released. If the same can be said of this piece, the world had best be ready for quite the showdown. Then again, should the US attack, who’ll be there to troll social media and corrupt another American election?!
Kudos, Mr. Rosenberg, for your thorough analysis and poignant arguments on this subject. I will recommend it to any and all who love a well-crafted political thriller, and hope your other series tempt them as well.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I have long enjoyed Rosenberg’s novels, not only for their content, but also because they have been close to spot-on with their predictions. He understands all the actors and the political temperatures, putting it all into a digestible novel for those who love stories ripped from the headlines. Here, Rosenberg provides what most will see as a veiled story of the rise of Putin in Russia, though there are enough vague descriptors to leave the reader some leeway in their interpretation. Ruling the country with an iron fist, Aleksandr Ivanovich Luganov proves to be not only a new Russian Czar, but also one who is prepared to poke the hornet’s nest in hopes of pushing the world to a new war. And while his predecessors may not have been ready to push the red button, Rosenberg creates this czar as happy to do whatever it takes, nuclear obliteration or not. Kraskin is an interesting character as well, though his timidity seems to work only at certain times. There is surely much to this man who tries to juggle his personal sentiments with the knowledge that his father-in-law is becoming a dictator as ruthless as Stalin. Trying to do what he feels is right may come at the ultimate cost, though Kraskin may be ready to lose it all, including his family, to save Russia. With both strong parallels and sharp contrasts, Marcus Ryker is the third central character in the novel. As Rosenberg shows throughout, Ryker grew into himself through a number of key life moments, all of which shaped the man he became. Like Kraskin, the reader is able to see Ryker’s development over the years through to the tumultuous climax of the novel. Personal loss and extreme emotional strain met Ryker head-on, though he never shied away from bearing it all in an effort to bring justice to a world riddled with disparity. The story is not only on point, but Rosenberg’s writing helps pull the reader into the centre; as though they are in the middle of each meeting, participating in every dialogue, and able to feel each sentiment the characters exude. Politically powerful, the ideological divide is clearly on offer, as is the attempt by Luganov to resurrect the Mother Russia persona in his own image, much as is being done currently within the Kremlin. Rosenberg is a staunch conservative and admits as much, but even he could not create a POTUS that would align with the Russian Czar and for that I am eternally grateful. We need some degree of fiction and this was surely a portion of the novel that does not parallel the current political situation. Rosenberg’s writing is some of the best I have read in the genre, though some readers will want fair warning that he also pushes a strong Christian theme throughout. Prayers, reference to Scripture, and even the occasional crisis of faith (whereby the character must turn to God and Jesus to overcome something). While I prefer to steer clear of this, Rosenberg has toned things down and no longer inculcates us heathen readers with seeing the Light as we try to enjoy a political thriller. Many of Rosenberg’s predictions in past series have come true, alarmingly not long after a book is released. If the same can be said of this piece, the world had best be ready for quite the showdown. Then again, should the US attack, who’ll be there to troll social media and corrupt another American election?!
Kudos, Mr. Rosenberg, for your thorough analysis and poignant arguments on this subject. I will recommend it to any and all who love a well-crafted political thriller, and hope your other series tempt them as well.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
July 10, 2019
Well done. I listened to #2 before #1 and found this first story better. 9 of 10 stars!
April 5, 2018
4.5*
Well dang. This book had a lot going on. Conspiracy and spying was just what you would expect. I was caught off guard on all the family dynamics. You had issues with the extended family, loss of loved ones, betrayal, etc. Even though it sounds like too much going on, it wasn’t. It actually added so much more depth to the story. I’m not too big on spy thrillers of sorts but really did enjoy this one.
My quick and simple overall: packed with so much! Great read!
Well dang. This book had a lot going on. Conspiracy and spying was just what you would expect. I was caught off guard on all the family dynamics. You had issues with the extended family, loss of loved ones, betrayal, etc. Even though it sounds like too much going on, it wasn’t. It actually added so much more depth to the story. I’m not too big on spy thrillers of sorts but really did enjoy this one.
My quick and simple overall: packed with so much! Great read!
March 22, 2018
First, if you are anyone other than an evangelical Christian, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. Throughout there are numerous references to God, Jesus, etc. While they are not offensive, they are unnecessary and clearly the thinking of an author bringing up religion when it isn’t an integral part of the situation. Second, this book was downright boring in the first half. There was way too much character exposition, and they didn’t do anything. The third problem was the ending. I won’t give it away, but really? This would never happen, nor would ever even be possible in Russia—or any major country. I confess that even though I was tempted to quit reading numerous times—especially in the first half—I did keep reading because I wanted to know what happened. But when I was done, I wanted that time back.
April 3, 2018
Wow! Action packed!! Especially the final quarter of the book. At the beginning I had no idea where the book was headed, but the dual story lines kept my interest. Highly recommended for those that enjoy political novels awash in action and honorable main characters.
May 16, 2021
Nobody writes thrillers quite like Joel C. Rosenberg.
With an exciting storyline, crisp writing, and an incredible amount of detail, his novels often don't feel like fiction; that is, they're all too real.
After the insane ride that was this novel, I'm excited to see what will happen in the sequels; if Mr. Rosenberg's previous writings are any indication, it should be more action and intensity.
With an exciting storyline, crisp writing, and an incredible amount of detail, his novels often don't feel like fiction; that is, they're all too real.
After the insane ride that was this novel, I'm excited to see what will happen in the sequels; if Mr. Rosenberg's previous writings are any indication, it should be more action and intensity.
June 10, 2018
4.5 stars. Rosenberg has written another excellent thriller about an oligarch Russian President, dedicated to restoring all of the satellites for Mother Russia. Aleksandr Ivanovich Luganov, ex-KGB, rises to prime minister, when a series of apartment bombs give him the right to attack Chechen rebels, and lead to his election as President. He recruits a lawyer, Oleg Kraskin, his future son-in-law, to become a senior aides. He is horrified as Luganov plans an attack on the NATO-member Baltic countries. Meanwhile, Marcus Ryker is attending college in Colorado with his hopeful fiancée, when his stepfather threatens his mother, and Marcus kills him. When his future father-in-law tells him to stop seeing his daughter, Marcus joins the Marines following 9-11, where he distinguishes himself by saving a U.S. Senator. Upon his return to the U.S. as a hero, he joins the Secret Service, marries his sweetheart, moves to Washington along with their son. A tragedy ensues, and Marcus retires until the Senator, contemplating a Presidential candidacy, asks him to protect him on a trip to the Europe. Oleg and Marcus separately decide that Luganov must be stopped at all costs. Gripping, scary, and realistic portrayal of world leaders, recommended.
January 6, 2018
See this review and more at www.TheRealBookSpy.com
Rosenberg’s latest thriller opens in 1999. A young Russian lawyer named Oleg Kraskin plans to ask the father of his longtime girlfriend, Marina, for his permission to propose to his daughter.
There’s just one problem. . .
Marina’s father is Aleksander Luganov, the former head of the Russian Federal Security Service, current prime minister, and the man chosen to be the next president of Russia.
Jumping forward a few years, twenty-one-year-old Marcus Ryker, a student at the University of Northern Colorado, finds himself in jail — put there for defending his mother against an abusive man who’d beaten her on more than one occasion. Having acted in self-defense, Marcus eventually walks free, but the sobering moment alters the trajectory of his life forever. After graduation, Marcus abandons his original plans and joins the Marines, something he hadn’t previously considered.
Though a world apart, Rosenberg masterfully develops both Marcus and Oleg, skillfully detailing their backgrounds and careers.
Russian President Luganov granted Oleg’s request, hosted a great wedding for his daughter and new son-in-law, and then welcomed Oleg into the family business by making him an aid in the Kremlin. Marcus, meanwhile, who experienced war first-hand on the battlefields in Afghanistan, got out of the military, married a beautiful woman, started a family, and then joined the United States Secret Service. Oleg, too, had a child and similarly climbed the career ladder. Eventually, both men find themselves at the peak of their professions. Marcus is on the president’s security detail, while Oleg (after proving his loyalty) is promoted to senior aid, working directly under his powerful father-in-law.
As readers follow both characters, Rosenberg slowly reveals an evil force lurking behind the scenes. Realizing the time to strike is now, while the American president is distracted by the events unfolding in Iran and North Korea, a czar rising within the Kremlin develops a plan to invade several NATO countries just ahead of October 25th, the anniversary of the Russian Revolution — a move that could trigger a major war with the United States.
Suddenly, the lives of Marcus and Oleg, two men on opposites sides of a dangerous conflict, collide in full force as Rosenberg cranks up the suspense, delivering his most stunning, high-stakes thriller yet.
Called a “modern-day Nostradamus” by U.S. News & World Report after his first novel, The Last Jihad, came out in 2002, Rosenberg has been known to write headline-beating thrillers. After writing a five-book series and two back-to-back trilogies about the threat of radical Islamic terrorism, Rosenberg has shifted his attention to Russia.
“I needed a new challenge and wanted to focus on a different part of the world, different enemies. In this case, I kept finding myself drawn to Russia,” Rosenberg told The Real Book Spy back in July of 2017.
“Moscow was once known as the seat of the ‘Evil Empire’ and I believe it is once again emerging as the center of the most dangerous government on the planet. Remember, Iran, al Qaeda, and ISIS just dream of having nuclear weapons. Moscow not only has them but also has the long-range ballistic missiles to hit every city in NATO and the United States. If they reemerge not simply as a geopolitical challenge but an aggressive enemy, the world will be headed down a very dark road.”
Aspiring authors should take note of Rosenberg’s deftly plotted story and first-rate character development — he puts on a clinic for how to introduce and bring along new characters. Some readers, especially early on, may find the plot moving a tad slower than his past books, but that’s clearly by design. Rosenberg meticulously builds the necessary foundation for later on, and, when you least expect it, he yanks the rug out from underneath you. This is Joel C. Rosenberg at his absolute best, proving yet again that he’s one of the premier novelists working in the genre today.
With his knack for writing prophetic fiction, those who want an early glimpse at what the world might look like in the very near future should pick up Joel Rosenberg’s latest thriller. . . Strap in and hold on tight, The Kremlin Conspiracy is a high-octane thriller that will stun readers and stay with them long after they turn the final page.
Book Details.
Author: Joel C. Rosenberg
Series: Marcus Ryker #1
Pages: 480 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 1496406176
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Book Spy Rating: 8.5/10
Order Now: http://amzn.to/2EF4PIw
Praised as “one of today’s finest book reviewers” by New York Times bestselling author Gayle Lynds, Ryan Steck has “quickly established himself as the authority on mysteries and thrillers” (Author A.J. Tata). He currently lives in Southwest Michigan with his wife and their six children.
Rosenberg’s latest thriller opens in 1999. A young Russian lawyer named Oleg Kraskin plans to ask the father of his longtime girlfriend, Marina, for his permission to propose to his daughter.
There’s just one problem. . .
Marina’s father is Aleksander Luganov, the former head of the Russian Federal Security Service, current prime minister, and the man chosen to be the next president of Russia.
Jumping forward a few years, twenty-one-year-old Marcus Ryker, a student at the University of Northern Colorado, finds himself in jail — put there for defending his mother against an abusive man who’d beaten her on more than one occasion. Having acted in self-defense, Marcus eventually walks free, but the sobering moment alters the trajectory of his life forever. After graduation, Marcus abandons his original plans and joins the Marines, something he hadn’t previously considered.
Though a world apart, Rosenberg masterfully develops both Marcus and Oleg, skillfully detailing their backgrounds and careers.
Russian President Luganov granted Oleg’s request, hosted a great wedding for his daughter and new son-in-law, and then welcomed Oleg into the family business by making him an aid in the Kremlin. Marcus, meanwhile, who experienced war first-hand on the battlefields in Afghanistan, got out of the military, married a beautiful woman, started a family, and then joined the United States Secret Service. Oleg, too, had a child and similarly climbed the career ladder. Eventually, both men find themselves at the peak of their professions. Marcus is on the president’s security detail, while Oleg (after proving his loyalty) is promoted to senior aid, working directly under his powerful father-in-law.
As readers follow both characters, Rosenberg slowly reveals an evil force lurking behind the scenes. Realizing the time to strike is now, while the American president is distracted by the events unfolding in Iran and North Korea, a czar rising within the Kremlin develops a plan to invade several NATO countries just ahead of October 25th, the anniversary of the Russian Revolution — a move that could trigger a major war with the United States.
Suddenly, the lives of Marcus and Oleg, two men on opposites sides of a dangerous conflict, collide in full force as Rosenberg cranks up the suspense, delivering his most stunning, high-stakes thriller yet.
Called a “modern-day Nostradamus” by U.S. News & World Report after his first novel, The Last Jihad, came out in 2002, Rosenberg has been known to write headline-beating thrillers. After writing a five-book series and two back-to-back trilogies about the threat of radical Islamic terrorism, Rosenberg has shifted his attention to Russia.
“I needed a new challenge and wanted to focus on a different part of the world, different enemies. In this case, I kept finding myself drawn to Russia,” Rosenberg told The Real Book Spy back in July of 2017.
“Moscow was once known as the seat of the ‘Evil Empire’ and I believe it is once again emerging as the center of the most dangerous government on the planet. Remember, Iran, al Qaeda, and ISIS just dream of having nuclear weapons. Moscow not only has them but also has the long-range ballistic missiles to hit every city in NATO and the United States. If they reemerge not simply as a geopolitical challenge but an aggressive enemy, the world will be headed down a very dark road.”
Aspiring authors should take note of Rosenberg’s deftly plotted story and first-rate character development — he puts on a clinic for how to introduce and bring along new characters. Some readers, especially early on, may find the plot moving a tad slower than his past books, but that’s clearly by design. Rosenberg meticulously builds the necessary foundation for later on, and, when you least expect it, he yanks the rug out from underneath you. This is Joel C. Rosenberg at his absolute best, proving yet again that he’s one of the premier novelists working in the genre today.
With his knack for writing prophetic fiction, those who want an early glimpse at what the world might look like in the very near future should pick up Joel Rosenberg’s latest thriller. . . Strap in and hold on tight, The Kremlin Conspiracy is a high-octane thriller that will stun readers and stay with them long after they turn the final page.
Book Details.
Author: Joel C. Rosenberg
Series: Marcus Ryker #1
Pages: 480 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 1496406176
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Book Spy Rating: 8.5/10
Order Now: http://amzn.to/2EF4PIw
Praised as “one of today’s finest book reviewers” by New York Times bestselling author Gayle Lynds, Ryan Steck has “quickly established himself as the authority on mysteries and thrillers” (Author A.J. Tata). He currently lives in Southwest Michigan with his wife and their six children.
March 14, 2018
Rosenberg knows how to create a political thriller that could very well parallel today's headlines. A Russian leader who wants to be a czar over a restored glory of Russia is pitted against an unpredictable U. S. president. With the existence of NATO on the line, an ex-secret service agent tries to prevent a possible global disaster.
I really like how Rosenberg has crafted his characters. The Russian president is a conniving man, lying to the public while secretly making preparations for military expansion. And the U.S. president? He is totally unpredictable. When a Democrat senator comes to him with inside information, the president's disdain for those in the other party is clear. Whether he would accept the intelligence provided and act on it is the huge question.
The plot is full of action from beginning to end. I felt all of it was possible. It really portrays the current tension between the U.S. and Russia. Rosenberg has done a great job of weaving a fictional story around the facts and real characters in the international scene.
I felt the end was abrupt and inconclusive. I trust this is because there will be a sequel otherwise it just doesn't make sense.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy a political thriller based on current events and attitudes.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I really like how Rosenberg has crafted his characters. The Russian president is a conniving man, lying to the public while secretly making preparations for military expansion. And the U.S. president? He is totally unpredictable. When a Democrat senator comes to him with inside information, the president's disdain for those in the other party is clear. Whether he would accept the intelligence provided and act on it is the huge question.
The plot is full of action from beginning to end. I felt all of it was possible. It really portrays the current tension between the U.S. and Russia. Rosenberg has done a great job of weaving a fictional story around the facts and real characters in the international scene.
I felt the end was abrupt and inconclusive. I trust this is because there will be a sequel otherwise it just doesn't make sense.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy a political thriller based on current events and attitudes.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 8, 2019
The Kremlin Conspiracy had me intrigued from the first chapter till the very end! The book is a perfect blend of high-stakes political conspiracy and non-stop action!
Never heard of this author before. Went on a whim, or maybe because this was a 'freebie' from amazon prime :) Either way, the risk of reading an unknown author paid major dividends, as The Kremlin Conspiracy kicked some major 'thriller' ass, and had me flipping the pages like it was business!
The plot on its surface is very straightforward, but Rosenberg goes through a myriad of mazes and manipulations to arrive at an intriguing international-high stakes/conspiracy page-turner that left me freaking breathless towards the end!
As the name implies, we have a few key players: Russia, U.S., and both of their respective presidents. Mirroring much of the socio-political landscape of our 'troubled' times, the Russian president was really 'Putin' with another name, and our own prez was Trump disguised with the name 'Clarke', hehe. The Russian president is quite machiavelical, and plans to invade the baltic countries, thereby weakening NATO and demoralizing the U.S. In addition, the Russian president is a conniving man, lying to the public while secretly making preparations for military expansion.The only problem, the russian dude is a fucking psycho and is willing to even engage in nuclear holocaust to achieve his imperialistic goal!
The story's pacing is just right, and the mounting tension in the story really had me hooked. Rosenberg is quite adept at characterization, and our main character, retired Marine and former Secret Service agent Marcus Ryker is recovering from personal tragedy when he will become front and center in this great conspiracy that threatens the survival of all mankind. Marcus is an honest, God fearing, country loving ex-mariner, and he's affable but also deadly. I could not help but root for the dude in the entire story.
The Kremlin Conspiracy was a riveting first book thriller series that will appeal to all lovers of action/thriller and high-stakes political drama.
4 1/2 Stars
June 3, 2022
4,25 stars - English Ebook- Dutch paperback
The Kremlin Conspiracy” is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that opens in 1999 with an explosion at an apartment building on Guryanova Street in Moscow that quickly escalates with a number of bombings across the city. With an ailing President the Prime Minister Alexandr Ivanovich Luganov assumes authority blaming Chechyna and sending troops in to wipe out the insurgents in that country which wins him a landslide victory in the election. After marrying Luganov’s daughter Marina, Oleg Stefanovich Kraskin is swept up in the new government and watches as Luganov ambitious and power-hungry rises as a new Russian czar, silencing any opposition, forging key alliances and strategically plotting to take down NATO and bring the world to the brink of a nuclear war.
In contrast Marcus Ryker, after killing his stepfather in self- defense and losing his high school sweetheart, he joins the Marines after the 9/11 attack on New York City. Showing bravery against the Taliban while on a diplomatic mission with his team, Ryker leaves the military to join the Secret Service taking his family to Washington. Unlike Oleg Kraskin whose patriotic service to his country has caused marital problems, Ryker has worked hard to heal his troubled marriage only to lose his wife and son under tragic circumstances.
The plot heats up when Ryker depressed and quitting his job after his loss is coerced into a security consulting role for Senator Drayton who’s taking a diplomatic trip to meet with NATO’s allies in the Baltics as the Russian forces supposedly on maneuvers are readying to invade the Ukraine and the Baltic states.
Well-developed this page-turner keeps you on the seat of your chair with twists and turns you don’t see coming not only like the tragic deaths of Ryker’s wife and son, but with Kraskin’s knowledge of, respect for and willingness to work with the former Secret Service agent. Flowing smoothly and with a deep sense of faith embedded in the story, it all too quickly progresses to an exciting and dizzying cliff-hanger that has you looking for the sequel.
The Kremlin Conspiracy” is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that opens in 1999 with an explosion at an apartment building on Guryanova Street in Moscow that quickly escalates with a number of bombings across the city. With an ailing President the Prime Minister Alexandr Ivanovich Luganov assumes authority blaming Chechyna and sending troops in to wipe out the insurgents in that country which wins him a landslide victory in the election. After marrying Luganov’s daughter Marina, Oleg Stefanovich Kraskin is swept up in the new government and watches as Luganov ambitious and power-hungry rises as a new Russian czar, silencing any opposition, forging key alliances and strategically plotting to take down NATO and bring the world to the brink of a nuclear war.
In contrast Marcus Ryker, after killing his stepfather in self- defense and losing his high school sweetheart, he joins the Marines after the 9/11 attack on New York City. Showing bravery against the Taliban while on a diplomatic mission with his team, Ryker leaves the military to join the Secret Service taking his family to Washington. Unlike Oleg Kraskin whose patriotic service to his country has caused marital problems, Ryker has worked hard to heal his troubled marriage only to lose his wife and son under tragic circumstances.
The plot heats up when Ryker depressed and quitting his job after his loss is coerced into a security consulting role for Senator Drayton who’s taking a diplomatic trip to meet with NATO’s allies in the Baltics as the Russian forces supposedly on maneuvers are readying to invade the Ukraine and the Baltic states.
Well-developed this page-turner keeps you on the seat of your chair with twists and turns you don’t see coming not only like the tragic deaths of Ryker’s wife and son, but with Kraskin’s knowledge of, respect for and willingness to work with the former Secret Service agent. Flowing smoothly and with a deep sense of faith embedded in the story, it all too quickly progresses to an exciting and dizzying cliff-hanger that has you looking for the sequel.
October 17, 2024
This book is so sizzlin' intense!
✏️ Review ✏️
The Kremlin Conspiracy was one fast-paced rollercoaster ride that kept me hooked from the beginning to the end. The plot is crammed with high-stakes action, gripping suspense, and political intrigue. It's incredible the book doesn't explode from all the energy coursing through its pages (ok... slight exaggeration 😆)!
Built upon a foundation of realistic situations and mind-blowingly accurate what-if scenarios, the plot satisfyingly captivated me as I read through this book. It's full of suspense and features many intense moments.
The writing is great in its delivery. It sounds natural without deleting details and firmly establishes the atmosphere and tone of the story with its dexterous deployment of the story.
The characters fit this story perfectly. The MCs are saturated with distinct definition, dynamic development, and realistic portrayal. I had no difficulty in connecting with them as I traversed the many pages of this book.
From the traitor-lurking halls of the Kremlin, to the rumor-filled rooms of the White House; from top-secret staff meetings of the Russian Federal Security Service, to classified briefings of the American Central Intelligence Agency; from heart pounding narrow escapes and stealthy covert operations *drumroll* — The Kremlin Conspiracy is a great thriller that you do not want to miss!
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
•The plot — it's fast-paced and full of suspenseful scenes and intense moments.
•The characters (specifically the protagonists) — they are realistically portrayed, dynamically developed, and distinctly defined.
•The writing style — it sounds natural without sacrificing detail.
•The inclusion of Christian elements and principles, despite not being a pervasive part of the book.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
•(Nothing at all!)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4.5/5 [rounded down to 4 on Goodreads])
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 4.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 4/5
— 👥 Characters: 4.5/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 2/5
•Some scenes of mild war violence.
•A few mildly graphic descriptions of injuries and wounds (mentions blood).
•Some potentially disturbing scenes involving death.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 1/5
•Several mentions of an affair (nothing descriptive).
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
•(None)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
•(None)
✏️ Review ✏️
The Kremlin Conspiracy was one fast-paced rollercoaster ride that kept me hooked from the beginning to the end. The plot is crammed with high-stakes action, gripping suspense, and political intrigue. It's incredible the book doesn't explode from all the energy coursing through its pages (ok... slight exaggeration 😆)!
Built upon a foundation of realistic situations and mind-blowingly accurate what-if scenarios, the plot satisfyingly captivated me as I read through this book. It's full of suspense and features many intense moments.
The writing is great in its delivery. It sounds natural without deleting details and firmly establishes the atmosphere and tone of the story with its dexterous deployment of the story.
The characters fit this story perfectly. The MCs are saturated with distinct definition, dynamic development, and realistic portrayal. I had no difficulty in connecting with them as I traversed the many pages of this book.
From the traitor-lurking halls of the Kremlin, to the rumor-filled rooms of the White House; from top-secret staff meetings of the Russian Federal Security Service, to classified briefings of the American Central Intelligence Agency; from heart pounding narrow escapes and stealthy covert operations *drumroll* — The Kremlin Conspiracy is a great thriller that you do not want to miss!
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
•The plot — it's fast-paced and full of suspenseful scenes and intense moments.
•The characters (specifically the protagonists) — they are realistically portrayed, dynamically developed, and distinctly defined.
•The writing style — it sounds natural without sacrificing detail.
•The inclusion of Christian elements and principles, despite not being a pervasive part of the book.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
•(Nothing at all!)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4.5/5 [rounded down to 4 on Goodreads])
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 4.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 4/5
— 👥 Characters: 4.5/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 2/5
•Some scenes of mild war violence.
•A few mildly graphic descriptions of injuries and wounds (mentions blood).
•Some potentially disturbing scenes involving death.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 1/5
•Several mentions of an affair (nothing descriptive).
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
•(None)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
•(None)
April 21, 2018
Oleg Kraskin, a brilliant young lawyer who happens to be in love with the daughter of the Russian president, finds himself brought into the inner workings of the government, and privy to secrets that threaten to change the course of human history. Retired Marine and former Secret Service agent Marcus Ryker is recovering from personal tragedy when he agrees to accompany a U.S. Senator to Europe. When Oleg and Marcus' lives intersect, it sends them down a path that neither of them ever expected, placing them in the cross hairs of a world power determined to do whatever necessary to see the rise of Russia to glory.
Rosenberg's latest novel is quite simply one of his best yet! The book is packed with non-stop action and a rising tension that found me gripping the pages as I devoured the story. The plot of the novel is absolutely chilling to consider as it feels entirely too plausible, that at any moment we could actually be living out the events depicted in "The Kremlin Conspiracy". Something I appreciate about this book is that the scenes taking place in the White House or at the Kremlin have a truly authentic feel to them. There are some novels you read where scenes or the dialogue seem somehow fake. Such is not the case here, however, as every moment feels real, such that you can experience the rising panic along with the characters that war seems like it could erupt at any moment. The novels serves as a call to the church, a call to pray and a call to stand for justice and for our governments to do what is needed to face down evil, whether in Russia or in other hot spots around the world. May God have mercy on us such that our reality doesn't unfold like the events of this novel!
"The Kremlin Conspiracy" is an incredibly well-written thriller and one that will please Rosenberg's fans to no end, while no doubt attracting new readers to his novels. I award this book a high rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Tyndale, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
Rosenberg's latest novel is quite simply one of his best yet! The book is packed with non-stop action and a rising tension that found me gripping the pages as I devoured the story. The plot of the novel is absolutely chilling to consider as it feels entirely too plausible, that at any moment we could actually be living out the events depicted in "The Kremlin Conspiracy". Something I appreciate about this book is that the scenes taking place in the White House or at the Kremlin have a truly authentic feel to them. There are some novels you read where scenes or the dialogue seem somehow fake. Such is not the case here, however, as every moment feels real, such that you can experience the rising panic along with the characters that war seems like it could erupt at any moment. The novels serves as a call to the church, a call to pray and a call to stand for justice and for our governments to do what is needed to face down evil, whether in Russia or in other hot spots around the world. May God have mercy on us such that our reality doesn't unfold like the events of this novel!
"The Kremlin Conspiracy" is an incredibly well-written thriller and one that will please Rosenberg's fans to no end, while no doubt attracting new readers to his novels. I award this book a high rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Tyndale, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
April 24, 2018
This is a hunker of a book and it is told in parts. So I am going to read one part at a time and then I am going to give a little summary or my thoughts of that part, maybe like a line or two and then move on to the next part. It is also told in dual perspectives which is sometimes a hit or miss for me.
PART ONE
We learn that a series of bombings is taking place around Russia and we are introduced to a slew of characters but the main character is named Oleg. He is a lawyer who has just been hired by the Prime Minister acting President.
Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book!
PART ONE
We learn that a series of bombings is taking place around Russia and we are introduced to a slew of characters but the main character is named Oleg. He is a lawyer who has just been hired by the Prime Minister acting President.
Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book!
June 29, 2021
I was a little surprised to see this one on my bookclub list, because we've never read political thrillers before (or at least I don't remember it if we did). Then when I picked up the book from the library, I was a little leery about it, as I saw that it was published by Tyndale House, a well-known conservative Christian publishing house. As a progressive Christian, I am (perhaps) overly critical about Christian novels and movies, because I often find they are too over-the-top in their attempt to convey a Christian message. You end up seeing characters who are unrealistic in their goody-goodiness. And the message tends to be very one-sided, with emphasis on conservative, fundamentalist views.
So, as I read this book, as I turned each page, I was anticipating the moment when the narrative would take that turn. Thankfully, it didn't come until the end.
Most of the book is a fairly straight-forward political thriller with fictional characters involved in some true events, such as the Russian invasion of Crimea. This is not my favorite genre, but thankfully, the descriptions of political events were not too drawn out or difficult to follow. There was a good balance between character development and stage-setting. The two main characters--Marcus (American) and Oleg (Russian)--are both men who love their families and their countries. Marcus is a church-going Christian who apparently considers faith to be an important part of his life. This attitude is generally portrayed in a very realistic way. He's clearly not a goody-goody, holier-than-thou kind of guy, just someone who tackles daily challenges with faith as one of his tools. Oleg is nominally Russian Orthodox, but religion does not seem to play a major role in his life. And I should give kudos to the author for not portraying him as some sort of demonic being because of this.
As I mentioned, the trouble came for me at the end. Marcus kills 12 Russian body guards in the process of aiding, abetting, and arming Oleg to assassinate the Russian president (who happens to be Oleg’s father-in-law). As the men are fleeing Russia via plane, Marcus has no regrets. He realizes that their plane might be shot down by the Russian military, leading to their deaths. And he understands that if he—as an American—is connected to the assassination, it could spark a war between nations. But he has no worries, because he knows where he’s going when he dies (presumably to heaven, because his sins are forgiven). His only concern is that he doesn’t know whether or not Oleg has “given his life to Christ” or “heard the Gospel clearly explained to him.”
Frankly, if I ever meet a man such as Marcus—who, Christian or not, shows no remorse or regret at all for killing another human being because he assumes his sins are forgiven—I will be more concerned about his psychological well-being than his spiritual well-being. And I have to wonder, is the author actually supporting the idea that killing one’s enemies is perfectly fine, as long as you’ve given your life to Christ first? Because that’s the way this scene seems to read. There’s a cliff hanger at the end of the book, which either means there is already a sequel or that one will be coming soon. I loathe authors who do this. And I am not interested in the story enough to seek out the next installment. But for those who enjoy political thrillers, this one is not too shabby.
So, as I read this book, as I turned each page, I was anticipating the moment when the narrative would take that turn. Thankfully, it didn't come until the end.
Most of the book is a fairly straight-forward political thriller with fictional characters involved in some true events, such as the Russian invasion of Crimea. This is not my favorite genre, but thankfully, the descriptions of political events were not too drawn out or difficult to follow. There was a good balance between character development and stage-setting. The two main characters--Marcus (American) and Oleg (Russian)--are both men who love their families and their countries. Marcus is a church-going Christian who apparently considers faith to be an important part of his life. This attitude is generally portrayed in a very realistic way. He's clearly not a goody-goody, holier-than-thou kind of guy, just someone who tackles daily challenges with faith as one of his tools. Oleg is nominally Russian Orthodox, but religion does not seem to play a major role in his life. And I should give kudos to the author for not portraying him as some sort of demonic being because of this.
As I mentioned, the trouble came for me at the end. Marcus kills 12 Russian body guards in the process of aiding, abetting, and arming Oleg to assassinate the Russian president (who happens to be Oleg’s father-in-law). As the men are fleeing Russia via plane, Marcus has no regrets. He realizes that their plane might be shot down by the Russian military, leading to their deaths. And he understands that if he—as an American—is connected to the assassination, it could spark a war between nations. But he has no worries, because he knows where he’s going when he dies (presumably to heaven, because his sins are forgiven). His only concern is that he doesn’t know whether or not Oleg has “given his life to Christ” or “heard the Gospel clearly explained to him.”
Frankly, if I ever meet a man such as Marcus—who, Christian or not, shows no remorse or regret at all for killing another human being because he assumes his sins are forgiven—I will be more concerned about his psychological well-being than his spiritual well-being. And I have to wonder, is the author actually supporting the idea that killing one’s enemies is perfectly fine, as long as you’ve given your life to Christ first? Because that’s the way this scene seems to read. There’s a cliff hanger at the end of the book, which either means there is already a sequel or that one will be coming soon. I loathe authors who do this. And I am not interested in the story enough to seek out the next installment. But for those who enjoy political thrillers, this one is not too shabby.
September 30, 2019
Having lived through the Cuban Missile crisis, the attempts by Russia to take over previously owned territories, and the cold war between Russia and the US, this book brought back lots of memories as well as the concerns of today. Fast paced, action driven, Marcus Ryker finds himself back in the middle of action as the US and NATO attempt to either disregard or stop Russia's attempt to invade Balkan countries and Ukraine.
The characters were realistic and interesting and the plot was filled with intrigue. My only complaint was the ending left things hanging which, of course, means I have to read the next book. Definitely a great political thriller.
The characters were realistic and interesting and the plot was filled with intrigue. My only complaint was the ending left things hanging which, of course, means I have to read the next book. Definitely a great political thriller.
March 24, 2018
I love Joel Rosenberg books and I think he's one of the most gifted thriller writers. As I read I noticed the author had put a great deal of effort to introduced Marcus Ryker and his background so I'm hoping there will be perhaps book two. I wouldn't say this was my favorite book of his but it was a very thrilling read nonetheless.
March 16, 2018
I enjoyed this book almost as much as the author’s other books. A lot of build up time to get backgrounds of the main characters made it a bit longish to me. Still, I look forward to seeing what happens in Book 2. There is a book 2, right???
February 24, 2021
This was the first book by this author That I have read. I was hoping for a book like a early Tom Clancy book but that was not to be with this one. I could not get into the main character for the good guys-it was just too much third person and telling and I thought that was the wrong set up for this kind of book. I sat down my kindle way to many times with this book which is never a good sign . I did something I only do about 2 percent of the time and is I skimmed this book and I almost DNF it. I think this author might have some talent but his style is just for me it was kind of like a James Patterson book which I do not like-maybe a little more but still not my cup of tea.
March 15, 2018
Another thriller from Joel. Will there be a book two for the Ryker series?
February 22, 2023
Neste livro encontramos uma Intriga política intensa que retrata a evolução do regime russo até à criação de um plano de invasão de três países pertencentes à NATO e seguidamente a invasão da Ucrânia.
Este é o primeiro volume da série Marcus Ryker e o segundo livro do autor a ser publicado em Portugal, tendo sido o primeiro o livro “A Fuga de Auschwitz”.
“A Conspiração do Kremlin” é uma narrativa intensa, cheia de referências histórias, políticas e literárias, sendo a sua maioria acontecimentos reais ou que poderíamos relacionar com o que se está a passar atualmente na Europa, tendo sido este aspeto, provavelmente, aquele que mais me surpreendeu em todo o livro.
Algo que também achei muito interessante está relacionado com a dupla narrativa existente. Estou a falar sobre dois espaços narrativos, começando o primeiro em 1999 na Rússia e o segundo começando em 2001 nos EUA antes do ataque das torres gémeas. Essa primeira narrativa retrata através da visão de Oleg a evolução do regime russo após uma série de ataques a zonas residenciais, passando por uma tentativa de guerra nuclear pelo presidente Luganov. A segunda narrativa conta através da visão de Marcus, a forma como a sua vida se irá alterar devido a situações de violência doméstica sofrida pela mãe, passando pelo 11 de Setembro, a guerra no Afeganistão, ataques ao governo americano e finalmente a tentativa de impedir que a guerra começada pela Rússia acontecesse. Só mais há frente na história é que as narrativas se encontram.
Relativamente às personagens temos uma grande diversidade, por um lado encontramos personagens fortes, com personalidade e que sabem o que querem da vida, mas temos igualmente algumas personagens que têm muita dificuldade em compreender a realidade e que utilizam métodos equívocos para obterem aquilo que querem, sendo alguns destes métodos a manipulação, a corrupção, a mentira e a violência. A personagem que podemos enquadrar nestas últimas características é Luganov, o presidente Russo e sogro de Oleg, já nas primeiras características apresentadas podemos enquadrar o próprio Oleg, Marcus, Jenny e o deputado americano que decide viajar aos países bálticos para descobrir o que está a acontecer.
No que diz respeito à ambientação da história, esta está muito bem conseguida, todos os espaços têm uma descrição perfeita e que nos leva a imaginar como são esses locais e edificios, apesar de em alguns casos ter algumas dúvidas sobre estas descrições acredito que o autor tinha conhecimento desses espaços para os descrever da forma como o fez.
Passando para o tempo da história, este está bem definido e identificado no início de cada capítulo, começando em 1999 e terminando em 2017.
Falando agora do final do livro, infelizmente senti que este poderia ter sido diferente, foi um final muito solto sem grandes explicações sobre o que aconteceu com as personagens principais, e para mim isso fez com que o final fosse fraco.
De uma forma geral gostei muito do livro e da forma como os acontecimentos foram descritos e contados, mas infelizmente não fui capaz de classificá-lo com 5 estrelas já que existiram duas questãos que me deixaram mais desagradada, por um lado o final da história e por outro a narrativa lenta até meio do livro.
Por todos estes motivos classifiquei “A Conspiração do Kremlin” com 4 estrelas.
Este é o primeiro volume da série Marcus Ryker e o segundo livro do autor a ser publicado em Portugal, tendo sido o primeiro o livro “A Fuga de Auschwitz”.
“A Conspiração do Kremlin” é uma narrativa intensa, cheia de referências histórias, políticas e literárias, sendo a sua maioria acontecimentos reais ou que poderíamos relacionar com o que se está a passar atualmente na Europa, tendo sido este aspeto, provavelmente, aquele que mais me surpreendeu em todo o livro.
Algo que também achei muito interessante está relacionado com a dupla narrativa existente. Estou a falar sobre dois espaços narrativos, começando o primeiro em 1999 na Rússia e o segundo começando em 2001 nos EUA antes do ataque das torres gémeas. Essa primeira narrativa retrata através da visão de Oleg a evolução do regime russo após uma série de ataques a zonas residenciais, passando por uma tentativa de guerra nuclear pelo presidente Luganov. A segunda narrativa conta através da visão de Marcus, a forma como a sua vida se irá alterar devido a situações de violência doméstica sofrida pela mãe, passando pelo 11 de Setembro, a guerra no Afeganistão, ataques ao governo americano e finalmente a tentativa de impedir que a guerra começada pela Rússia acontecesse. Só mais há frente na história é que as narrativas se encontram.
Relativamente às personagens temos uma grande diversidade, por um lado encontramos personagens fortes, com personalidade e que sabem o que querem da vida, mas temos igualmente algumas personagens que têm muita dificuldade em compreender a realidade e que utilizam métodos equívocos para obterem aquilo que querem, sendo alguns destes métodos a manipulação, a corrupção, a mentira e a violência. A personagem que podemos enquadrar nestas últimas características é Luganov, o presidente Russo e sogro de Oleg, já nas primeiras características apresentadas podemos enquadrar o próprio Oleg, Marcus, Jenny e o deputado americano que decide viajar aos países bálticos para descobrir o que está a acontecer.
No que diz respeito à ambientação da história, esta está muito bem conseguida, todos os espaços têm uma descrição perfeita e que nos leva a imaginar como são esses locais e edificios, apesar de em alguns casos ter algumas dúvidas sobre estas descrições acredito que o autor tinha conhecimento desses espaços para os descrever da forma como o fez.
Passando para o tempo da história, este está bem definido e identificado no início de cada capítulo, começando em 1999 e terminando em 2017.
Falando agora do final do livro, infelizmente senti que este poderia ter sido diferente, foi um final muito solto sem grandes explicações sobre o que aconteceu com as personagens principais, e para mim isso fez com que o final fosse fraco.
De uma forma geral gostei muito do livro e da forma como os acontecimentos foram descritos e contados, mas infelizmente não fui capaz de classificá-lo com 5 estrelas já que existiram duas questãos que me deixaram mais desagradada, por um lado o final da história e por outro a narrativa lenta até meio do livro.
Por todos estes motivos classifiquei “A Conspiração do Kremlin” com 4 estrelas.
March 6, 2018
***former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum writes, Rosenberg delivers
“page-turning pictures of worst case scenarios…you pray never” come to pass.***
New York Times bestselling author Joel C. Rosenberg, well-known for writing prophetic fiction, releases “The Kremlin Conspiracy” March 6, a fascinating, multifaceted, multi-layered, political thriller that shifts Rosenberg’s attention to Russia. A nation of dynamic power struggles, tense political intrigue and collusion where the author “draws parallels to real-world events and growing tensions between the U.S. and Russia.”
Oleg Kraskin, Russian President Aleksandr Luganov’s trusted advisor and Marcus Ryker, a dedicated American Secret Service agent assigned to the president’s protection detail dominate the story in a cast of well-developed characters. With Marcus the “only one able to derail a rush to war” because of an American president distracted by events in North Korea and Iran; a president who fails to recognize the threat of a nuclear-armed Russian president who aspires to be a brutal “21st Century Czar.”
Rosenberg’s seven-part story richly characterizes Oleg’s and Marcus’s separate yet parallel lives affording readers a greater understanding of who they are, what they believe in and why they do what they do. From exciting, sometimes tragic life events to highlights of their careers to how their beliefs and life experiences ultimately influence their decisions as their worlds dramatically collide during an international crisis that culminates in a shocking ending!
Add Russian news reports of apartment bombings that fill city morgues with bodies of “sleeping residents,” a terrorist attack on America’s white house, the murder of Marcus’s wife and son and Russia’s plan to invade the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and you have a well-researched, action-packed, political thriller only Rosenberg could write.
Porter Goss, former director of the CIA writes, Rosenberg has an “…uncanny talent for focusing his storytelling on real world hot spots just as they are heating up.” While U.S. News & World Report called Rosenberg a “modern-day Nostradamus” after his release of “The Last Jihad” in 2002.
Rosenberg keeps his finger on the pulse of current events and never disappoints! If I had any criticism of “The Kremlin Conspiracy” it might be the in-depth characterization in the beginning that kept the stories pace to a simmer instead of a boil. Yet that foundation was needed to understand the events that followed.
Rosenberg once again delivers an incredible high-stakes, fast paced thriller that leaves readers anxiously awaiting the next book due to his skillful plots, masterful characterizations and often headline beating events. Or as former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum writes, Rosenberg delivers “page-turning pictures of worst case scenarios…you pray never” come to pass.
‘The Kremlin Conspiracy,’ by Joel C. Rosenberg, Tyndale House Publishers, March 6, 2018, Hardcover, 480 Pages, 978-1496406170, $18.29
“Gail’s Bookshelf” Midwest Book Reviews: "February 2018"
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“page-turning pictures of worst case scenarios…you pray never” come to pass.***
New York Times bestselling author Joel C. Rosenberg, well-known for writing prophetic fiction, releases “The Kremlin Conspiracy” March 6, a fascinating, multifaceted, multi-layered, political thriller that shifts Rosenberg’s attention to Russia. A nation of dynamic power struggles, tense political intrigue and collusion where the author “draws parallels to real-world events and growing tensions between the U.S. and Russia.”
Oleg Kraskin, Russian President Aleksandr Luganov’s trusted advisor and Marcus Ryker, a dedicated American Secret Service agent assigned to the president’s protection detail dominate the story in a cast of well-developed characters. With Marcus the “only one able to derail a rush to war” because of an American president distracted by events in North Korea and Iran; a president who fails to recognize the threat of a nuclear-armed Russian president who aspires to be a brutal “21st Century Czar.”
Rosenberg’s seven-part story richly characterizes Oleg’s and Marcus’s separate yet parallel lives affording readers a greater understanding of who they are, what they believe in and why they do what they do. From exciting, sometimes tragic life events to highlights of their careers to how their beliefs and life experiences ultimately influence their decisions as their worlds dramatically collide during an international crisis that culminates in a shocking ending!
Add Russian news reports of apartment bombings that fill city morgues with bodies of “sleeping residents,” a terrorist attack on America’s white house, the murder of Marcus’s wife and son and Russia’s plan to invade the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and you have a well-researched, action-packed, political thriller only Rosenberg could write.
Porter Goss, former director of the CIA writes, Rosenberg has an “…uncanny talent for focusing his storytelling on real world hot spots just as they are heating up.” While U.S. News & World Report called Rosenberg a “modern-day Nostradamus” after his release of “The Last Jihad” in 2002.
Rosenberg keeps his finger on the pulse of current events and never disappoints! If I had any criticism of “The Kremlin Conspiracy” it might be the in-depth characterization in the beginning that kept the stories pace to a simmer instead of a boil. Yet that foundation was needed to understand the events that followed.
Rosenberg once again delivers an incredible high-stakes, fast paced thriller that leaves readers anxiously awaiting the next book due to his skillful plots, masterful characterizations and often headline beating events. Or as former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum writes, Rosenberg delivers “page-turning pictures of worst case scenarios…you pray never” come to pass.
‘The Kremlin Conspiracy,’ by Joel C. Rosenberg, Tyndale House Publishers, March 6, 2018, Hardcover, 480 Pages, 978-1496406170, $18.29
“Gail’s Bookshelf” Midwest Book Reviews: "February 2018"
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May 6, 2018
I will be honest and tell you, this is not my normal type of book to read. I prefer romantic suspense or romantic thriller, not political thrillers. I am just not a big political person. That said, I have to say, Mr. Rosenberg is extremely, extremely talented, and really knew what to put into a phenomenally written novel. This book truly surprised me at how well it captivated me.
The great detail and research that Mr. Rosenberg has put into this novel is incredible. It really helped draw me to the intensity of the story. I was drawn to Marcus Ryker, the Kremlin and all of the edge of your seat, nail biting plot twists that he hadded to the story. I found myself often holding my breath, holding my book with a white knuckled grip. That, to me, is what makes an amazing thriller!
This is definitely a 5 star worthy novel to the greatest proportions. Mr. Rosenberg absolutely blew me away with this novel and I am already looking forward to another thrilling, God filled, gripping novel from this fantabulously talented author. You heard it here folks. A non-political person, loving this absolutely gripping political Christian thriller. Hats off to Mr. Rosenberg!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
The great detail and research that Mr. Rosenberg has put into this novel is incredible. It really helped draw me to the intensity of the story. I was drawn to Marcus Ryker, the Kremlin and all of the edge of your seat, nail biting plot twists that he hadded to the story. I found myself often holding my breath, holding my book with a white knuckled grip. That, to me, is what makes an amazing thriller!
This is definitely a 5 star worthy novel to the greatest proportions. Mr. Rosenberg absolutely blew me away with this novel and I am already looking forward to another thrilling, God filled, gripping novel from this fantabulously talented author. You heard it here folks. A non-political person, loving this absolutely gripping political Christian thriller. Hats off to Mr. Rosenberg!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
January 21, 2019
If you like your geopolitical thrillers infused with evangelical Christian cultural references, theology and gender norms, you will enjoy this book. The story was okay, but the religious layer was completely extraneous and distracting.
July 6, 2024
An amazing thriller, that is disturbingly accurate. This book takes you through a time that it would seem like we are experiencing today, which makes it all the more interesting! Another great one by Joel C. Rosenberg
March 8, 2025
Joel’s books never cease to amaze me. He ups the ante with each book. A great read for sure!
February 6, 2019
Really good, entertaining, story from Rosenberg. Right up until the cliffhanger ending. Really hate it when authors do that.
September 22, 2023
A great read for an adrenaline rush. Rosenberg is very descriptive and I loved that he wove into the story some of the Gospel.
August 19, 2024
This was a wild ride so that I could hardly breathe or read fast enough the last 100 pages to see what could possibly get Markus Ryker put of this mess in Russia. There is just no down time in this novel. It’s like Jason Bourne only he’s a Christian. From the Kremlin we end parachuting into Finland and I’m left hanging unless I pick up the next one. And I do!
December 22, 2017
Joel C. Rosenberg does NOT disappoint. I could not put this one down! The culture of Russia and the characters offer a fascinating look at what could be a possible world power scenario. Joel will have you wondering how much this story, truly, could be reminiscent of what might possibly happen on our world stage in real life. Great book!
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