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Trident Deception #5
Treason
In Rick Campbell’s newest thriller, a military coup in Russia leads to a swift invasion of former Soviet territories—while the U.S. has been rendered powerless to respond.In Russia, the military is anxious to assert its military strength and regain its role as a superpower. The Russian President refuses to greenlight a bold plan to disable American strategic nuclear capability and retake Ukraine and the Baltic States, fearing the potential consequences of involving nuclear weapons. But the generals won't have it and at the first opportunity, they overthrow the president in a military coup. Then they use a narrow window to initiate their bold plan—the Zolotov option—which will render all of America's B2 bombers and ballistic missiles useless. With the U.S. off the board, they swiftly invade Ukraine with an overwhelming force, an invading Army that even NATO can't hope to resist.
Now, it's game on. Without their primary weapons, the U.S. has to find a way to fight back on multiple fronts. If they're to have any chance, they'll have to overcome the malware that has grounded their ballistic missiles and planes, as well as secretly land a SEAL team to help rescue the imprisoned Russian President, and help retake control from the forces that are driving Europe into a continental war.
Rick Campbell, one of the finest young military thriller writers, returns with his biggest and boldest novel to date.
312 pages, Hardcover
First published March 19, 2019
394 people are currently reading
1013 people want to read
About the author
Rick Campbell
12 books344 followersRICK CAMPBELL, a retired Navy Commander, served on four nuclear-powered submarines, finishing his career with tours in the Pentagon and the Washington Navy Yard. On his last submarine, he was one of the two men whose permission is required to launch the submarine's nuclear-warhead-armed missiles.
Upon retirement from the Navy, Rick was offered a two-book deal by Macmillan / St. Martin's Press for his novel The Trident Deception, which was hailed by Booklist as "The best submarine novel written in the last thirty years, since Tom Clancy's classic - The Hunt for Red October". His first six books were Barnes & Noble Top-10 and Amazon #1 bestsellers, and the 7th and 8th books in the series are scheduled for release in April 2024 and spring 2025.
To learn more, visit Rick Campbell's website and his "Submarine 101" page at www.rickcampbellauthor.com.
Upon retirement from the Navy, Rick was offered a two-book deal by Macmillan / St. Martin's Press for his novel The Trident Deception, which was hailed by Booklist as "The best submarine novel written in the last thirty years, since Tom Clancy's classic - The Hunt for Red October". His first six books were Barnes & Noble Top-10 and Amazon #1 bestsellers, and the 7th and 8th books in the series are scheduled for release in April 2024 and spring 2025.
To learn more, visit Rick Campbell's website and his "Submarine 101" page at www.rickcampbellauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 24, 2019
Thank you Rick, St Martins and Netgallery for this ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Mutually Assured Destruction. The use of WMDs to deter another country from making an effort to wipe you out. It's a concept that relies on balance, but what happens when the WMDs get snatched away? That is the concept that TREASON, the fifth book in the series of military thrillers by US Naval veteran Rick Campbell is centered around. Taking place during a hot war with Russia, the United States finds itself in a dangerous position when through means of an ingenious cyberweapon, its nuclear arsenal is effectively snatched away. Now to the review, what happens when the men with guns believe it's a time to betray?
We start with a dramatic cold opener with the President of the United States and his USSS detail speeding for the White House as fast as the Beast limo's V8 can carry them. Washington DC may have been burned to the ground by Britain's Royal Marines, but nothing matches the terror of the first military air strike targeting America - with a difference. It's not planes, rockets or bombs, but America's own ICBMs, hurtling right at the President's head. We then cut to 21 days prior to this near death experience.
In DC, Christine O'Connor, burned out mentally from surviving the life and death situations over the past few years, decides to retire as National Security Adviser. In Moscow, the Russian President, decides to hold off on approving an initiative to escalate an ongoing war that has found Russia at an impasse. This angers the Russian Military which, decides to get what they wants one way or another.
The chief of Russia's armed forces, picks time to strike. A time which coincidentally is when O'Connor is in Moscow cleaning up last minute diplomatic business before her retirement and accepting an invitation by the Russian President to visit the infamous Cape Idokopas. What begins as an innocent holiday turns into a run for the border as Christine, and her host, a man full of surprises, flee a full blown coup de etat that if successful would restart the third world war. Racing to mount a counter - uprising before the burgeoning cataclysm can take a life upon its own, O'Connor is tested to breaking point.
The author once again hits it out of the park and displays how his writing abilities have become more honed in his attempt to do a difficult thing in thriller fiction writing. End a story arc and start a new one. Campbell does well with wrapping up unfinished business and making his heroine, Christine O'Connor face her demons in one final rodeo. The plot itself is also quite unique for a military thriller as few military thrillers concern what could happen if a conflict restarted with violent disagreements on one side of the conflict causing renewed fighting. Despite being faced with the challenge of keeping multiple moving parts operating, Campbell writes a compelling story where close shaves are not a given.
Befitting a military thriller, Treason integrates plenty of interesting real world detail into the narrative. Whether it be ELINT counter - surveillance tactics and variables, the operation of the surprisingly formidable Improved Kilo Class Submarine which is the furthest thing from a post Communist rust bucket, and even a brief glimpse at the paramilitary shadow armies run by the Russian SVR and FSB, all this information is perfectly utilized with nothing sulfurous in the mix.
But whether it be real world detail or a solid, compelling story, these days, readers are more discerning and demanding compelling players to go with the plot. I'll talk about two highlights here, Christine O'Connor and Yuri Kalinin. First, Christine. O'Connor is unique in the realm of military thriller protagonists. She's not a trained intelligence officer and she's hasn't got the military experience that saved ex USMC Platoon Leader Jack Ryan. She's a civilian who is not comfortable with killing or danger as she neither has the training nor the expertise to flourish. What she does have however is a overwhelming survival instinct, that has grown only stronger over time and has allowed her to beat lethal odds. It does not, however allow her to compartmentalize the violence and stress she's experienced up to this point. Such duality gives O'Connor a lot more vulnerability than the average military thriller protagonist. You watch her struggle, you see her in danger once again and you'll want her to win against the odds one more time after losing so much and being tormented and robbed of peace by the PTSD that has only grown over time.
Next, President Yuri Kalinin of the Russian Federation, a man who is one of this books true highlights. Yuri is a breath of fresh air among the contemporary thriller Russian politician type character as he's not a stock clone of Putin, but more like the Yin to Vladimir's Yang. Formerly an SVR officer who became one of Putin's minions, Kalinin eventually snagged the top job for himself. While a Russian nationalist who wants to get a new buffer state back and believes, not without some justification that NATO betrayed Moscow by making the former USSR buffer states in the Baltic and Eastern Europe NATO members, Kalinin would be considered the Deng Xiaoping to Putin's Mao.
Comparatively moderate politically, a man who knows when to fold them when his hand is bad, and unlike Vladimir with his bear riding memes and hedonism, Yuri hasn't forgotten the tradecraft and combat training he was given back in his intelligence officer days. Several of his standout scenes in Treason are when he gets to pull his own weight and demonstrate that he most certainly is not a run of the mill politician. President Kalinin, is in summary, a many full of surprises and one of the coolest fictional politicians ever to grace a military thriller.
Now, while the book is mostly good, some parts of it seem to have been a little rushed. While this is good for pacing, certain chapters here and there could have been served well with some slight, further fleshing out. But said chapters were few and far between. Treason is a crisp, brisk military thriller novel.
Overall, Treason is a fitting conclusion to Rick Campbell's Russia trilogy. With an intriguing look at what could cause cooling global wars to heat up once more, the ramifications of compromising WMDs with current generation cyberwarfare technology, fast paced land and nautical warfare action and very enjoyable and fun interactions between a very odd couple, Treason brings back the glory days of late 20th century thriller fiction. With Christine moving to a new role alongside an old friend, the possibilities for Campbell and his career as a writer are simply limitless.
Recommended
Mutually Assured Destruction. The use of WMDs to deter another country from making an effort to wipe you out. It's a concept that relies on balance, but what happens when the WMDs get snatched away? That is the concept that TREASON, the fifth book in the series of military thrillers by US Naval veteran Rick Campbell is centered around. Taking place during a hot war with Russia, the United States finds itself in a dangerous position when through means of an ingenious cyberweapon, its nuclear arsenal is effectively snatched away. Now to the review, what happens when the men with guns believe it's a time to betray?
We start with a dramatic cold opener with the President of the United States and his USSS detail speeding for the White House as fast as the Beast limo's V8 can carry them. Washington DC may have been burned to the ground by Britain's Royal Marines, but nothing matches the terror of the first military air strike targeting America - with a difference. It's not planes, rockets or bombs, but America's own ICBMs, hurtling right at the President's head. We then cut to 21 days prior to this near death experience.
In DC, Christine O'Connor, burned out mentally from surviving the life and death situations over the past few years, decides to retire as National Security Adviser. In Moscow, the Russian President, decides to hold off on approving an initiative to escalate an ongoing war that has found Russia at an impasse. This angers the Russian Military which, decides to get what they wants one way or another.
The chief of Russia's armed forces, picks time to strike. A time which coincidentally is when O'Connor is in Moscow cleaning up last minute diplomatic business before her retirement and accepting an invitation by the Russian President to visit the infamous Cape Idokopas. What begins as an innocent holiday turns into a run for the border as Christine, and her host, a man full of surprises, flee a full blown coup de etat that if successful would restart the third world war. Racing to mount a counter - uprising before the burgeoning cataclysm can take a life upon its own, O'Connor is tested to breaking point.
The author once again hits it out of the park and displays how his writing abilities have become more honed in his attempt to do a difficult thing in thriller fiction writing. End a story arc and start a new one. Campbell does well with wrapping up unfinished business and making his heroine, Christine O'Connor face her demons in one final rodeo. The plot itself is also quite unique for a military thriller as few military thrillers concern what could happen if a conflict restarted with violent disagreements on one side of the conflict causing renewed fighting. Despite being faced with the challenge of keeping multiple moving parts operating, Campbell writes a compelling story where close shaves are not a given.
Befitting a military thriller, Treason integrates plenty of interesting real world detail into the narrative. Whether it be ELINT counter - surveillance tactics and variables, the operation of the surprisingly formidable Improved Kilo Class Submarine which is the furthest thing from a post Communist rust bucket, and even a brief glimpse at the paramilitary shadow armies run by the Russian SVR and FSB, all this information is perfectly utilized with nothing sulfurous in the mix.
But whether it be real world detail or a solid, compelling story, these days, readers are more discerning and demanding compelling players to go with the plot. I'll talk about two highlights here, Christine O'Connor and Yuri Kalinin. First, Christine. O'Connor is unique in the realm of military thriller protagonists. She's not a trained intelligence officer and she's hasn't got the military experience that saved ex USMC Platoon Leader Jack Ryan. She's a civilian who is not comfortable with killing or danger as she neither has the training nor the expertise to flourish. What she does have however is a overwhelming survival instinct, that has grown only stronger over time and has allowed her to beat lethal odds. It does not, however allow her to compartmentalize the violence and stress she's experienced up to this point. Such duality gives O'Connor a lot more vulnerability than the average military thriller protagonist. You watch her struggle, you see her in danger once again and you'll want her to win against the odds one more time after losing so much and being tormented and robbed of peace by the PTSD that has only grown over time.
Next, President Yuri Kalinin of the Russian Federation, a man who is one of this books true highlights. Yuri is a breath of fresh air among the contemporary thriller Russian politician type character as he's not a stock clone of Putin, but more like the Yin to Vladimir's Yang. Formerly an SVR officer who became one of Putin's minions, Kalinin eventually snagged the top job for himself. While a Russian nationalist who wants to get a new buffer state back and believes, not without some justification that NATO betrayed Moscow by making the former USSR buffer states in the Baltic and Eastern Europe NATO members, Kalinin would be considered the Deng Xiaoping to Putin's Mao.
Comparatively moderate politically, a man who knows when to fold them when his hand is bad, and unlike Vladimir with his bear riding memes and hedonism, Yuri hasn't forgotten the tradecraft and combat training he was given back in his intelligence officer days. Several of his standout scenes in Treason are when he gets to pull his own weight and demonstrate that he most certainly is not a run of the mill politician. President Kalinin, is in summary, a many full of surprises and one of the coolest fictional politicians ever to grace a military thriller.
Now, while the book is mostly good, some parts of it seem to have been a little rushed. While this is good for pacing, certain chapters here and there could have been served well with some slight, further fleshing out. But said chapters were few and far between. Treason is a crisp, brisk military thriller novel.
Overall, Treason is a fitting conclusion to Rick Campbell's Russia trilogy. With an intriguing look at what could cause cooling global wars to heat up once more, the ramifications of compromising WMDs with current generation cyberwarfare technology, fast paced land and nautical warfare action and very enjoyable and fun interactions between a very odd couple, Treason brings back the glory days of late 20th century thriller fiction. With Christine moving to a new role alongside an old friend, the possibilities for Campbell and his career as a writer are simply limitless.
Recommended
February 1, 2019
One of the most intriguing things for me in reading 'Treason' was the understanding that the author is a retired Navy Commander whose tours of duty included the Pentagon as well as several nuclear powered submarines. His expertise in the field was evident throughout the book which is well written and action packed.
A military coup in Russia occurs and an invasion into former Soviet territories gets underway by a group of Russian generals after they initiate a plan to ground America's ballistic missiles and planes. The Russian president had vetoed the plan and has been arrested by the generals. His fate turns on getting help from the American national security adviser who had been instrumental in negotiating a new nuclear arms treaty with Russia. There's cyber attacks as well as boots on the ground, along with some chilling submarine warfare, and it's all very fast paced and compelling.
It became clear early into the book that this was one of a series (fifth, as it turns out) but even though I had not yet read the others, that didn't get in the way of enjoying the story. The only issue I had with this book is that the character of the strong, accomplished and fierce female national security adviser has to be bogged down as a love interest (past and future) by two of the male leads in the book. That's a bit of a "meh" for me.
I was provided an advance copy of the book by St. Martin's Press in exchange for a review.
A military coup in Russia occurs and an invasion into former Soviet territories gets underway by a group of Russian generals after they initiate a plan to ground America's ballistic missiles and planes. The Russian president had vetoed the plan and has been arrested by the generals. His fate turns on getting help from the American national security adviser who had been instrumental in negotiating a new nuclear arms treaty with Russia. There's cyber attacks as well as boots on the ground, along with some chilling submarine warfare, and it's all very fast paced and compelling.
It became clear early into the book that this was one of a series (fifth, as it turns out) but even though I had not yet read the others, that didn't get in the way of enjoying the story. The only issue I had with this book is that the character of the strong, accomplished and fierce female national security adviser has to be bogged down as a love interest (past and future) by two of the male leads in the book. That's a bit of a "meh" for me.
I was provided an advance copy of the book by St. Martin's Press in exchange for a review.
June 27, 2021
An OK political-military thriller. It has some submarine action, which I like.
Spoiler:
I normally don't care if ridiculous stuff is written about submarines and their operations, but this one pushes the limit. A US nuclear guided missile submarine engages Russian Kilo boats (super quiet diesel-electric subs) and ends up taking a torpedo hit that blows a big hole in the missile compartment, the largest space in the submarine. The sub barely survives by settling on the bottom in shallow water. They manage to get the sub operational again with some factually dubious work-arounds. OK, I can let that pass. The US sub then manages to engage a third Kilo and sink it without taking another hit. That's really unlikely given the stealth of a Kilo and that the US sub is now crippled and has been really noisy getting itself off the bottom. Again, OK, I guess.
But the final ridiculousness is when, days or weeks later, after all the various scenarios in the book have played out, one of the guys assigned to the sub is asked if he's going to go out on their next patrol or call it quits. Next patrol? The boat had a hole punched into it that completely flooded the largest compartment. Given the damage to hull integrity, and to the equipment inside, there very likely isn't any 'next patrol' and if there is, it will be after a few years in the shipyard getting the damage repaired.
Spoiler:
I normally don't care if ridiculous stuff is written about submarines and their operations, but this one pushes the limit. A US nuclear guided missile submarine engages Russian Kilo boats (super quiet diesel-electric subs) and ends up taking a torpedo hit that blows a big hole in the missile compartment, the largest space in the submarine. The sub barely survives by settling on the bottom in shallow water. They manage to get the sub operational again with some factually dubious work-arounds. OK, I can let that pass. The US sub then manages to engage a third Kilo and sink it without taking another hit. That's really unlikely given the stealth of a Kilo and that the US sub is now crippled and has been really noisy getting itself off the bottom. Again, OK, I guess.
But the final ridiculousness is when, days or weeks later, after all the various scenarios in the book have played out, one of the guys assigned to the sub is asked if he's going to go out on their next patrol or call it quits. Next patrol? The boat had a hole punched into it that completely flooded the largest compartment. Given the damage to hull integrity, and to the equipment inside, there very likely isn't any 'next patrol' and if there is, it will be after a few years in the shipyard getting the damage repaired.
October 2, 2022
Plot: The Trident Deception Series consists of several full-length novels in the military genrè. A retired Navy author provides page-turning excitement of near-miss disasters in American conflicts, primarily with Russia. Suggest starting at the beginning of the series, as several characters - like the President, Chief of Staff, a navy seal, and a strong female lead traverse all novels written to date - will be more.
Liked: If you are a fan of The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy - you'll love The Trident Deception Series. All are nail-biting, page-turning stories. Some graphic violence; if you're a victim of wartime PTSD, these might not be for you. Clean reads, no sex, no objectionable language. Learned a bit about submarine tactics.
Not so hot: Audio speed is a bit slow for my taste; I bumped the rate to 1.4 on the iPhone.
Written by Rick Campbell, and narration is fine; there are several, each book in the area of 10-15 hours of listening in audiobook format, released from March 2014 to date by Blackstone Audio.
Recommended.
Liked: If you are a fan of The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy - you'll love The Trident Deception Series. All are nail-biting, page-turning stories. Some graphic violence; if you're a victim of wartime PTSD, these might not be for you. Clean reads, no sex, no objectionable language. Learned a bit about submarine tactics.
Not so hot: Audio speed is a bit slow for my taste; I bumped the rate to 1.4 on the iPhone.
Written by Rick Campbell, and narration is fine; there are several, each book in the area of 10-15 hours of listening in audiobook format, released from March 2014 to date by Blackstone Audio.
Recommended.
January 8, 2019
After the Russian defeat in trying to annex Lithuania and the Ukraine as well as their failure to blackmail NATO to stop their intervention, “Treason” opens as Russian President Kalinin turns down a bold military plan to not only implement the “Zoltov Option” and disable American’s strategic nuclear capability but to retake the Ukraine and Baltic States. Instead he wants to confer on a treaty which Christine O’Connor the American President’s security advisor has been sent to iron out, although she’s also agreed to a weekend away with President Kalinin after negotiations are completed. What the two never expect is a military coup that will have them running for their lives and having the SEAL team on the American submarine Michigan planning a rescue, so the Russian President can take back control of the military forces that are driving Europe towards a continental war.
Well-written and intriguing the action continually builds with General Andropov's order to capture and kill Kalinin and O’Connor; a Russian submarine attack on the Michigan; and a harrowing incursion by the Seal team into the Russian Ministry of Defense building. Realistic with technical terminology that doesn’t overwhelm the reader, Rick Campbell masterfully creates a military thrill-ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat as the plot twists and turns. Using short chapters to give a bird’s eye view of events as they happen the author steadily builds intensity and suspense as the pace progresses quickly and smoothly to an exciting ending.
Although the main character in most military thrillers is usually a tough male from a Special Forces unit and even though this novel has a slew of male characters, the predominate personality in the Trident Deception series and effectively this plot is that of Christine O’Connor a strong-willed, no-nonsense, impulsive Presidential advisor who’s very athletic and a deadly shot. Haunted by memories of torture in China and Russia, and plagued by remembrances of a revenge killing, she wants to resign from her position only to agree to wait until her negotiations in Russia are completed. Skillfully Rick Campbell also adds romantic implications in her love life with the secrecy surrounding her questionable relationship with President Kalinin and her affection for old flame Jake Harrison which adds a spark to the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Treason” and thank the publisher for my advanced copy. I recommend this book highly and have already started reading the other novels in the series that I missed.
Well-written and intriguing the action continually builds with General Andropov's order to capture and kill Kalinin and O’Connor; a Russian submarine attack on the Michigan; and a harrowing incursion by the Seal team into the Russian Ministry of Defense building. Realistic with technical terminology that doesn’t overwhelm the reader, Rick Campbell masterfully creates a military thrill-ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat as the plot twists and turns. Using short chapters to give a bird’s eye view of events as they happen the author steadily builds intensity and suspense as the pace progresses quickly and smoothly to an exciting ending.
Although the main character in most military thrillers is usually a tough male from a Special Forces unit and even though this novel has a slew of male characters, the predominate personality in the Trident Deception series and effectively this plot is that of Christine O’Connor a strong-willed, no-nonsense, impulsive Presidential advisor who’s very athletic and a deadly shot. Haunted by memories of torture in China and Russia, and plagued by remembrances of a revenge killing, she wants to resign from her position only to agree to wait until her negotiations in Russia are completed. Skillfully Rick Campbell also adds romantic implications in her love life with the secrecy surrounding her questionable relationship with President Kalinin and her affection for old flame Jake Harrison which adds a spark to the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Treason” and thank the publisher for my advanced copy. I recommend this book highly and have already started reading the other novels in the series that I missed.
December 19, 2018
First, I'd like to thank the folks at St. Martin's for asking me if I'd be interested in doing a review of this book.....mission accomplished!
Second, and more - I wish they had told me this was the 5th in a series and not really a stand-alone novel. Then I could have purchased the first 4 and read them since there are places in this book where someone like myself who has not read any of the others in the series are at a complete loss as to what is being referred to since the reference is to events in an earlier book. Events in the book Ice Station Nautilus are mentioned numerous times with little background given and you're sitting there scratching your head and wondering "what happened?" "Why did it happen?" Ditto from the 4th book, Blackmail, or at least I assume its a reference to that book since the events seem (but you can't be sure) to have happened after Blackmail.
And, I particularly found this irritating - the President is never given a name, he's just referred to as "the president." Everyone else has a name: The Russian President, Cabinet members, but not the President. He may have been given a name in an earlier book in the series and it was assumed everyone would know his name - not quite true. So, I took to thinking of him as I read, as "President Cassidy" after the famous outlaw Butch Cassidy - somehow an outlaw and a politician just seem to go together.
Those are the main reasons for the 4-star rating - am I being picky? Perhaps, but if you're going to refer to events that have happened in earlier books, you need to add a little more detail. Without that detail, it's like walking into a movie after the first 30 minutes, or a baseball game in the 5th inning and discovering you've missed almost half of a no-hitter. And seriously, you need to give the President a name!!
Otherwise, you have an excellent novel which at times could be as real as tomorrow morning's headlines (but would it knock all the anti-Trump stuff the media delights in reporting on off the front pages of the papers? Probably not). And there are some parts which seem a bit implausible such as the President's National Security Advisor sneaking off for a weekend rendezvous with the Russian President at his vacation home. The fact she does is pivotal to the story, so you suspend whatever feelings you had of disbelief and read on.
Being as I hate spoilers, that's as close as I'm going to come, other than to say the Russian President is the victim of a coup (which won't happen while Putin is in power, obviously, so the only thing we have to worry about is those nasty Russians interfering in our elections, but it could happen in the future when Putin is gone), the bad Russians have managed to sabotage the missile strike capability of the US and the world is on the brink of nuclear annihilation. And that's where the fun kicks in - aside from some Nautilus references - what you have is a fast-paced, exciting, interesting read.
Rick Campbell (and it's hard not to like someone named "Rick" which is what I go by when I'm with friends) is a talented writer, a former Naval Commander so you know the information is accurate, except where he has simplified things from military jargon into something the average reader will comprehend and understand,but not at the expense of accuracy.
Those who have read the other 4 books in the series will definitely want to grab this one when it comes out in March, 2019. If you think you'd enjoy the series - and if this volume is any indication - you will, head on over to eBay and see if you can find the first 4, read them and then you'll be ready for this one. You'll be glad you did. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to eBay!!
Second, and more - I wish they had told me this was the 5th in a series and not really a stand-alone novel. Then I could have purchased the first 4 and read them since there are places in this book where someone like myself who has not read any of the others in the series are at a complete loss as to what is being referred to since the reference is to events in an earlier book. Events in the book Ice Station Nautilus are mentioned numerous times with little background given and you're sitting there scratching your head and wondering "what happened?" "Why did it happen?" Ditto from the 4th book, Blackmail, or at least I assume its a reference to that book since the events seem (but you can't be sure) to have happened after Blackmail.
And, I particularly found this irritating - the President is never given a name, he's just referred to as "the president." Everyone else has a name: The Russian President, Cabinet members, but not the President. He may have been given a name in an earlier book in the series and it was assumed everyone would know his name - not quite true. So, I took to thinking of him as I read, as "President Cassidy" after the famous outlaw Butch Cassidy - somehow an outlaw and a politician just seem to go together.
Those are the main reasons for the 4-star rating - am I being picky? Perhaps, but if you're going to refer to events that have happened in earlier books, you need to add a little more detail. Without that detail, it's like walking into a movie after the first 30 minutes, or a baseball game in the 5th inning and discovering you've missed almost half of a no-hitter. And seriously, you need to give the President a name!!
Otherwise, you have an excellent novel which at times could be as real as tomorrow morning's headlines (but would it knock all the anti-Trump stuff the media delights in reporting on off the front pages of the papers? Probably not). And there are some parts which seem a bit implausible such as the President's National Security Advisor sneaking off for a weekend rendezvous with the Russian President at his vacation home. The fact she does is pivotal to the story, so you suspend whatever feelings you had of disbelief and read on.
Being as I hate spoilers, that's as close as I'm going to come, other than to say the Russian President is the victim of a coup (which won't happen while Putin is in power, obviously, so the only thing we have to worry about is those nasty Russians interfering in our elections, but it could happen in the future when Putin is gone), the bad Russians have managed to sabotage the missile strike capability of the US and the world is on the brink of nuclear annihilation. And that's where the fun kicks in - aside from some Nautilus references - what you have is a fast-paced, exciting, interesting read.
Rick Campbell (and it's hard not to like someone named "Rick" which is what I go by when I'm with friends) is a talented writer, a former Naval Commander so you know the information is accurate, except where he has simplified things from military jargon into something the average reader will comprehend and understand,but not at the expense of accuracy.
Those who have read the other 4 books in the series will definitely want to grab this one when it comes out in March, 2019. If you think you'd enjoy the series - and if this volume is any indication - you will, head on over to eBay and see if you can find the first 4, read them and then you'll be ready for this one. You'll be glad you did. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to eBay!!
January 6, 2019
A disclaimer first, I was provided an advance copy of the book.
First, this is the fifth book in the series; but does not prevent you from reading and enjoying the story. The references to events which occurred in the earlier books can be accepted without any impairment to the story; if anything those references whet the appetite to read the previous stories.
Second, the story is a bit slow to start. The chapters are short and a bit choppy…might have helped to have read those first five books, but that is not the only reason, as the author is laying weaving his field of play. The author’s character development is on point and does not depend on previous writing.
It was good to read a “National Security”/military story where there is a strong female lead; where the lead is not improbable; and she has reasonable imperfections. It is always good to remember that this is fiction and you have to suspend reality because the National Security Advisor (Christine) does get away with things that the real world would not allow. Furthermore, Rick does not have his Seal Team take on a Russian Division and kill them all without any casualties to the Team; he tries to keeps it real (which I appreciate).
I appreciate Rick’s candor and prose. Having served twenty-four years on active duty (I was a target in the submarine vernacular) and eleven years as a Navy Civil Servant, I appreciate his ability to weave his tale, keep it exciting and not too technical; and also keep it probable without giving away the boat.
This is a good book and I would recommend it…in fact I will have to get and read the first four(in order).
First, this is the fifth book in the series; but does not prevent you from reading and enjoying the story. The references to events which occurred in the earlier books can be accepted without any impairment to the story; if anything those references whet the appetite to read the previous stories.
Second, the story is a bit slow to start. The chapters are short and a bit choppy…might have helped to have read those first five books, but that is not the only reason, as the author is laying weaving his field of play. The author’s character development is on point and does not depend on previous writing.
It was good to read a “National Security”/military story where there is a strong female lead; where the lead is not improbable; and she has reasonable imperfections. It is always good to remember that this is fiction and you have to suspend reality because the National Security Advisor (Christine) does get away with things that the real world would not allow. Furthermore, Rick does not have his Seal Team take on a Russian Division and kill them all without any casualties to the Team; he tries to keeps it real (which I appreciate).
I appreciate Rick’s candor and prose. Having served twenty-four years on active duty (I was a target in the submarine vernacular) and eleven years as a Navy Civil Servant, I appreciate his ability to weave his tale, keep it exciting and not too technical; and also keep it probable without giving away the boat.
This is a good book and I would recommend it…in fact I will have to get and read the first four(in order).
March 31, 2020
This was a fun, crazy book to read. It was pretty fast-paced, throughout, and it is pretty clear the author not only "knows his stuff" but is able to do a great job of translating it onto the written page in a form that is fun to read. The character development is decent. I enjoyed his explanation of why the character Christine Connors gets into so many predicaments (and his explanation does make perfect sense). There are a few recurring characters and there are plenty of new characters. It does get a bit far-fetched, at times, but that is still what makes it fun to read (not as crazy as Matthew Reilly's books, mind you, but Campbell gets a little crazy himself).
It is always interesting to see how things work out in his books, because he devotes a good chunk of the beginning into creating the situation/scenario, and then spends the rest of the book developing it before bringing things to a resolution. Considering how little "space/time" was left in the book at one point, I was not certain how he was going to resolve the crisis he created in Eastern Europe . He does resolve things in an interesting fashion (although I am still not quite sure how believable it was. In any case, it was pretty exciting to read).
I know I said this already, but it was a fun book to read. I had a hard time putting this one down and it took me maybe four hours, total, to read it.
It is always interesting to see how things work out in his books, because he devotes a good chunk of the beginning into creating the situation/scenario, and then spends the rest of the book developing it before bringing things to a resolution. Considering how little "space/time" was left in the book at one point, I was not certain how he was going to resolve the crisis he created in Eastern Europe . He does resolve things in an interesting fashion (although I am still not quite sure how believable it was. In any case, it was pretty exciting to read).
I know I said this already, but it was a fun book to read. I had a hard time putting this one down and it took me maybe four hours, total, to read it.
December 9, 2019
"Treason" eBook was published in 2019 and was written by Rick Campbell (http://rickcampbellauthor.com). This is Mr. Campbell's fifth novel and the fifth in his "Trident Deception" series.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence. The story is set in contemporary times. The primary character is the US National Security Advisor Christine O'Connor.
After a US missile test somehow results in the projectiles landing in Washington D.C., O'Connor travels to Russia on a routine diplomatic mission. She has decided to retire but agrees to complete the mission to Russia first. While in Russia she finally agrees to be the secret weekend guest of the Russian President. Russian troops suddenly attack the President's Cape Idokopas retreat taking the President prisoner while O'Connor hides.
O'Connor must avoid detection by the troops while she tries to find a way of freeing the Russian President. Those unhappy with the President's refusal to use secret tech to disable American strategic nuclear capability and retake Ukraine and the Baltic States are behind the coup. O'Connor is the only one who can try to free the Russian President at the remote retreat.
Russian forces cross the border and invade Ukraine and the Baltic States. NATO doesn't have the military might to oppose the Russian forces without US missiles to back them up. The US is powerless while its missiles are rendered useless by Russian technology.
The only hope to stop the Russian aggression is to both find a way around the Russian tech and a way to rescue the Russian President then put him back into power.
I thoroughly enjoyed the 7+ hours I spent reading this 326-page thriller. While there are four previous books in the series, this one reads pretty well on its own. If you want to read it I would start at the beginning of the series if possible. I like the action that Campbell has created. It makes me want to go back and read the prior books in the series. Campbell has created a strong yet believable heroine in O'Connor. I do like the selected cover art. I give this novel a 5 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence. The story is set in contemporary times. The primary character is the US National Security Advisor Christine O'Connor.
After a US missile test somehow results in the projectiles landing in Washington D.C., O'Connor travels to Russia on a routine diplomatic mission. She has decided to retire but agrees to complete the mission to Russia first. While in Russia she finally agrees to be the secret weekend guest of the Russian President. Russian troops suddenly attack the President's Cape Idokopas retreat taking the President prisoner while O'Connor hides.
O'Connor must avoid detection by the troops while she tries to find a way of freeing the Russian President. Those unhappy with the President's refusal to use secret tech to disable American strategic nuclear capability and retake Ukraine and the Baltic States are behind the coup. O'Connor is the only one who can try to free the Russian President at the remote retreat.
Russian forces cross the border and invade Ukraine and the Baltic States. NATO doesn't have the military might to oppose the Russian forces without US missiles to back them up. The US is powerless while its missiles are rendered useless by Russian technology.
The only hope to stop the Russian aggression is to both find a way around the Russian tech and a way to rescue the Russian President then put him back into power.
I thoroughly enjoyed the 7+ hours I spent reading this 326-page thriller. While there are four previous books in the series, this one reads pretty well on its own. If you want to read it I would start at the beginning of the series if possible. I like the action that Campbell has created. It makes me want to go back and read the prior books in the series. Campbell has created a strong yet believable heroine in O'Connor. I do like the selected cover art. I give this novel a 5 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
April 23, 2019
I received a copy of Treason from Pan Macmillan Australia to review.
The world is once again heading towards war in the latest military thriller from Rick Campbell that sets the United States against Russia in a battle for domination.
After Russia’s last attempt to take control of the countries on their western border ended in disaster, the Russian military is eager for another invasion that will restore Russia’s place as a superpower. However, even with America’s forces weakened after recent conflicts, Russian President Yuri Kalinin is reluctant to challenge NATO again. His generals have no such reservations and initiate a sudden military coup, arresting Kalinin and taking Russia to a war footing.
America is once again ready to oppose Russia’s advance into Europe, until a routine weapons test sends several ballistic missiles hurtling towards Washington DC and crashes several of America’s B2 Bombers. The Russians have apparently found a way to disarm America’s nuclear arsenal and are using this to keep the US out of the latest conflict.
As several European countries are overrun, America must find a way to regain control of their weapons and push back the Russians. Their only hope may lie in the hands of Christine O’Connor, the President’s national security adviser, who was being entertained by Kalinin at his official residence when the coup occurred. After freeing Kalinin, O’Connor hatches a plan to return him to power in exchange for an end to the invasion. Can America achieve this with only one submarine and a small team of SEALs, or will NATO and Russia be forced into a destructive war for Europe?
View the full review at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2019/04/23/...
For other exciting reviews, visit my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
The world is once again heading towards war in the latest military thriller from Rick Campbell that sets the United States against Russia in a battle for domination.
After Russia’s last attempt to take control of the countries on their western border ended in disaster, the Russian military is eager for another invasion that will restore Russia’s place as a superpower. However, even with America’s forces weakened after recent conflicts, Russian President Yuri Kalinin is reluctant to challenge NATO again. His generals have no such reservations and initiate a sudden military coup, arresting Kalinin and taking Russia to a war footing.
America is once again ready to oppose Russia’s advance into Europe, until a routine weapons test sends several ballistic missiles hurtling towards Washington DC and crashes several of America’s B2 Bombers. The Russians have apparently found a way to disarm America’s nuclear arsenal and are using this to keep the US out of the latest conflict.
As several European countries are overrun, America must find a way to regain control of their weapons and push back the Russians. Their only hope may lie in the hands of Christine O’Connor, the President’s national security adviser, who was being entertained by Kalinin at his official residence when the coup occurred. After freeing Kalinin, O’Connor hatches a plan to return him to power in exchange for an end to the invasion. Can America achieve this with only one submarine and a small team of SEALs, or will NATO and Russia be forced into a destructive war for Europe?
View the full review at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2019/04/23/...
For other exciting reviews, visit my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
May 27, 2022
Book Review – Treason – Rick Campbell
In former submariner, turn author Rick Campbell’s fifth thriller in the Trident series, “Treason,” a military coup in Russia leads to a swift invasion of former Soviet territories - while the US has been rendered powerless to respond. Campbell, one of the finest submarine thriller writers in the genre, told an exciting and captivating story in this military thriller. Readers can start anywhere in the series and not feel like they have missed out on anything. Of course, reading these novels in order, readers will see the development of each character and understand their roles and significance to the series. There is no real "hero"/main protagonist in the series, but it is based around submarines, the National Security Agency (NSA), and US Navy SEAL Teams. This gives the Trident series a different feel/read and excitement in the military thriller genre. Once again, Campbell excites readers that are fascinated about military submarines and the remarkable things that they do. Campbell’s rich descriptions of submarine warfare makes readers feel comfortable reading about US submarines and their ‘awesomeness.’ The submarine scenes in Treason reek of authenticity and tension. Author Rick Campbell has done a brilliant job of making the readers feel as if they are on the submarine with the other characters and with an interesting plot and a twisty subplot that really adds to the story. Overall, Campbell’s Treason is a good military thriller read.
In former submariner, turn author Rick Campbell’s fifth thriller in the Trident series, “Treason,” a military coup in Russia leads to a swift invasion of former Soviet territories - while the US has been rendered powerless to respond. Campbell, one of the finest submarine thriller writers in the genre, told an exciting and captivating story in this military thriller. Readers can start anywhere in the series and not feel like they have missed out on anything. Of course, reading these novels in order, readers will see the development of each character and understand their roles and significance to the series. There is no real "hero"/main protagonist in the series, but it is based around submarines, the National Security Agency (NSA), and US Navy SEAL Teams. This gives the Trident series a different feel/read and excitement in the military thriller genre. Once again, Campbell excites readers that are fascinated about military submarines and the remarkable things that they do. Campbell’s rich descriptions of submarine warfare makes readers feel comfortable reading about US submarines and their ‘awesomeness.’ The submarine scenes in Treason reek of authenticity and tension. Author Rick Campbell has done a brilliant job of making the readers feel as if they are on the submarine with the other characters and with an interesting plot and a twisty subplot that really adds to the story. Overall, Campbell’s Treason is a good military thriller read.
January 3, 2019
I was offered the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book and must preface my review by stating that I really enjoyed it and have no hesitation in recommending it to other readers.
That said, I was expecting more military action (which I gather was characteristic of the previous books in the series). Instead, this read more like a political action novel. As a result, though interesting, I found the first half of the book less than fully engaging as the author set up the various dimensions of the international intrigue plot. However, the second half of the book more than made up for the slow start and I had great difficulty setting the book down as the pace of the story increased. Like another reviewer, I wish I had been aware that this book was preceded by others in a series. There were a few places in the story that apparently relied heavily on actions and events in the earlier books. Having read the prequels would probably have helped me through the beginning of the story and prevented me from feeling like I had missed something important.
Of particular note is that the main character of the novel is a female and one that does not rely on any of the traditional stereotypes for a military heroine. As a result, the plot, though credible and plausible, was anything but predictable and held my interest right up to the end.
I am looking forward to purchasing and reading the beginning of this series.
That said, I was expecting more military action (which I gather was characteristic of the previous books in the series). Instead, this read more like a political action novel. As a result, though interesting, I found the first half of the book less than fully engaging as the author set up the various dimensions of the international intrigue plot. However, the second half of the book more than made up for the slow start and I had great difficulty setting the book down as the pace of the story increased. Like another reviewer, I wish I had been aware that this book was preceded by others in a series. There were a few places in the story that apparently relied heavily on actions and events in the earlier books. Having read the prequels would probably have helped me through the beginning of the story and prevented me from feeling like I had missed something important.
Of particular note is that the main character of the novel is a female and one that does not rely on any of the traditional stereotypes for a military heroine. As a result, the plot, though credible and plausible, was anything but predictable and held my interest right up to the end.
I am looking forward to purchasing and reading the beginning of this series.
July 12, 2024
If a book depicts a submarine on the cover, I—as a former submariner—will read it. I previously read another book by Rick Campbell—The Trident Deception.
In this one, a renegade Russian general commits treason by abducting the Russian president, moving troops and ships to take over chunks of Eastern Europe, and disabling the U.S. nuclear triad. Also, the U.S. National Security Advisor gets swept up in the takeover as well.
The U.S. must restore its nuclear deterrent, prevent the aggression in Europe, and actually save the Russian president, all against long odds.
Quite a thrilling and engaging novel, with a few unexpected twists. The book contained a couple of stretches—decisions and events that felt uncharacteristic or unlikely to me. But overall, a very enjoyable tale.
I listened to the audiobook version read by narrator Michael Kramer. I can’t downgrade my rating based on the audiobook narration—that’s not the author’s fault. But three apparent mispronunciations triggered the general alarm in my ears.
First, I always heard SEALs pronounce the acronym for Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat as ‘rib,’ not ‘ar-hib.’ On my boat, we referred to the Engineer as Eng, pronounced like the last syllable of Stonehenge, not like the first syllable of English. Lastly, we called a High-Pressure Air Compressor the High-PAC, like in Pac-man, not the ‘High-P.A.C.’ with each letter pronounced individually.
That aside, I enjoyed the book, and recommend it.
In this one, a renegade Russian general commits treason by abducting the Russian president, moving troops and ships to take over chunks of Eastern Europe, and disabling the U.S. nuclear triad. Also, the U.S. National Security Advisor gets swept up in the takeover as well.
The U.S. must restore its nuclear deterrent, prevent the aggression in Europe, and actually save the Russian president, all against long odds.
Quite a thrilling and engaging novel, with a few unexpected twists. The book contained a couple of stretches—decisions and events that felt uncharacteristic or unlikely to me. But overall, a very enjoyable tale.
I listened to the audiobook version read by narrator Michael Kramer. I can’t downgrade my rating based on the audiobook narration—that’s not the author’s fault. But three apparent mispronunciations triggered the general alarm in my ears.
First, I always heard SEALs pronounce the acronym for Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat as ‘rib,’ not ‘ar-hib.’ On my boat, we referred to the Engineer as Eng, pronounced like the last syllable of Stonehenge, not like the first syllable of English. Lastly, we called a High-Pressure Air Compressor the High-PAC, like in Pac-man, not the ‘High-P.A.C.’ with each letter pronounced individually.
That aside, I enjoyed the book, and recommend it.
February 2, 2026
Treason is about a Russian military plot to overthrow their president and initiating an attack on Ukraine and Poland. First they hack into American missile tests showing they can control American missile coordinates. The Americans then have to figure out a way to put President Kalinin back into power and put a stop to the invasion. This has a lot of pretty realistic submarine warfare and SEAL team rescues that drive the action forward. However, the story also has a kind of Perils of Pauline or rather Perils of Christine aspect to it. National Security Advisor Christine O'Connor is actually allowed, after a summit meeting with the Russians, to accompany Russian President Kalinin to his dacha for a romantic weekend. Really? Well this puts Christine in the action from the beginning as the U.S. government works to extract Kalinin and her from the situation. She will later fall off a cliff, survive to be captured and tortured by the Russians and after another rescue, crawl through an air conditioning duct to help the SEAL team. Plus, her married former beau, Jake Harrison, is part of the SEAL team that rescues her. Lots of great action but sometimes the 9 lives of Christine has to make you smile.
December 16, 2018
I enjoyed this book, which I received as an advance reader copy from the publisher. It was well-plotted and moved quickly. The characters were believable and the plot realistic. The military terminology and information was very thorough without overwhelming the reader. The author exhibits an amazing knowledge of political and military facts and processes. There was lots of variety to the action, too, from escaping on foot through a Russian forest to submarine warfare to an urban battle between SEALS and Russian forces.
I only have 2 complaints. The first is the first 50 pages because they seemed to drag on interminably and got the story off to a slow and painful start. The second is the fact that there are so many characters in the book. It was impossible to remember who they all were, partly because they were so minimally fleshed out. For all but the main characters I ignored their names and just tried to figure out who they from the context. Most appeared just once and only briefly anyway.
I only have 2 complaints. The first is the first 50 pages because they seemed to drag on interminably and got the story off to a slow and painful start. The second is the fact that there are so many characters in the book. It was impossible to remember who they all were, partly because they were so minimally fleshed out. For all but the main characters I ignored their names and just tried to figure out who they from the context. Most appeared just once and only briefly anyway.
April 10, 2019
This book did not wow me.
You should read this series in order. Events from previous books play a role in this series. These books are quick reads.
I did not like the setup for this book. It seemed a bit too much like a TV episode. It left a bad taste in my mouth and dimmed my enjoyment of the rest of the story. Too many technical detail errors also lessened my enjoyment. I can see where this book can branch out as the main characters develop new career paths, but this series seems to be steering away from the submarine base it started.
Oh, and I was disappointed when the SEAL team hit the shore, they did not have a four-legged robotic mule with them. It is real high tech and just the thing they could have used for their mission. It would have added a layer to the action. I was also a bit disappointed with the climax action in the HQ. I know, how else do you tie both of our heroes back into a closing scene. Again, just too much like a TV episode.
Have a GoodReads.
You should read this series in order. Events from previous books play a role in this series. These books are quick reads.
I did not like the setup for this book. It seemed a bit too much like a TV episode. It left a bad taste in my mouth and dimmed my enjoyment of the rest of the story. Too many technical detail errors also lessened my enjoyment. I can see where this book can branch out as the main characters develop new career paths, but this series seems to be steering away from the submarine base it started.
Oh, and I was disappointed when the SEAL team hit the shore, they did not have a four-legged robotic mule with them. It is real high tech and just the thing they could have used for their mission. It would have added a layer to the action. I was also a bit disappointed with the climax action in the HQ. I know, how else do you tie both of our heroes back into a closing scene. Again, just too much like a TV episode.
Have a GoodReads.
February 12, 2020
After the first fifty or so pages I decided this was half fantasy, half semi-serious. Then I happened to read the Author's Note at the end and found that Campbell was sort of forced to write this because his publisher wanted him to. He admitted that it was a stretch to have the president's female National Security Advisor get into situations typically reserved for navy SEALs. But that explained it. It's the publisher's fault. That said, it was fairly good for what it was, what it had to be, what the publisher demanded. Did I mention that it's the publisher's fault? But I had to force myself to plow through the final fifty pages because it got so tedious with he did this, they did that, he did this, this other guy did that, a lot of dense narrative with little dialogue, not that dialogue would have been appropriate to the situation. Guess that's what happens when the publisher asks for it because, hey, it's all about the money.
February 26, 2021
A few decades ago, I was a big fan of Tom Clancy's novels. I found the international intrigue and tension to be so exciting and interesting. For some reason, I strayed from his novels and have missed that genre.
I acquired Treason not knowing it was part of a series. Indeed, this is the 5th installment. After reading this one, I immediately ordered books 1 - 4! Rick Campell is a retired naval officer and his knowledge of submarines adn international affairs is evident. He writes in the style of Clancy and generates the same excitement and tension.
There are lots of twists, turns and excitement. Sometimes, as with many novels of this ilk, some of the outcomes of various encounters are difficult to believe, but that is pretty much the norm. One has to expect heroic and sometimes far-fetched outcomes. If you can accept that, you are in for a fun ride.
I am eagerly looking forward to catching-up with the series.
I acquired Treason not knowing it was part of a series. Indeed, this is the 5th installment. After reading this one, I immediately ordered books 1 - 4! Rick Campell is a retired naval officer and his knowledge of submarines adn international affairs is evident. He writes in the style of Clancy and generates the same excitement and tension.
There are lots of twists, turns and excitement. Sometimes, as with many novels of this ilk, some of the outcomes of various encounters are difficult to believe, but that is pretty much the norm. One has to expect heroic and sometimes far-fetched outcomes. If you can accept that, you are in for a fun ride.
I am eagerly looking forward to catching-up with the series.
January 23, 2019
The initial setup was a bit mystifying, partly because of the preponderance of background characters, but always necessary. The continuing characters are clearly presented and compelling, each in their own way. The plot moves along swiftly and the suspense just keeps on adding up! No sense in doing a recap as the publisher's blurb is a good teaser, and other reviewers have done it to death.
Bottom line is that this is an intense read probably aimed at a particular kind of geek but totally engrossing to any thrill junkie (hand in air here). Yes, it is hardly first in series and might bother some readers, but they'd probably complain about Cussler, too. Personally, I loved it and will read others by this author soon.
I requested and received a free ARC from St Martin's Press.
Bottom line is that this is an intense read probably aimed at a particular kind of geek but totally engrossing to any thrill junkie (hand in air here). Yes, it is hardly first in series and might bother some readers, but they'd probably complain about Cussler, too. Personally, I loved it and will read others by this author soon.
I requested and received a free ARC from St Martin's Press.
March 9, 2019
Holy cow! Where to start? Suffice it to say that I do believe it helps if you are a bit familiar with military doctrine and international politics and diplomacy. This latest in a series of five books by Campbell builds on the earlier ones and, read as a standalone, might be a little challenging at spots because there isn't a lot of explanation. That said, the idea of a Russian coup, cyberwar against the US, and the need to sort things out quickly rang, unfortunately, true in the heated atmosphere of today. Good characters, if briefly sketched, in this plot driven thriller made it a surprisingly good read for me as it's not my usual genre (although I did read and very much Ice Station Nautilus) . Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Lots of action and some stuff to think about.
January 6, 2019
A disclaimer first, I was provided an advance copy of the book. Now with that being said I now have another author that I will have to go back and get the first four books and read. Having not read the first four books in my opinion does not put the reader at a disadvantage. There are references to the other books but they do not detract from this book or make it hard to follow. Rick Campbell has done a great job of building the story and the characters in this book. The plot moves along at a great place and made it hard for me to put down. As I stated before I now have a new author to read and will look forward to reading more of Ricks books in the future.
August 1, 2019
His best one yet! Rick Campbell keeps the plot tight and the action fast-paced. His intimate knowledge of submarines, coupled with extensive research of how SEALs actually operate and the organization and loyalties of Russian intelligence services combine to make this a good read. Difficult to put down.
Although it's book #5 in the series, this book could function well as a stand-alone novel.
Full disclosure: I am a Naval Academy classmate and friend of the author. I am a named character in book #4 of the series.
Although it's book #5 in the series, this book could function well as a stand-alone novel.
Full disclosure: I am a Naval Academy classmate and friend of the author. I am a named character in book #4 of the series.
August 2, 2019
Treason is another success in author Rick Campbell's lineup of submarine suspense/thriller books. His writing brings the reader into the action with his attention to details (made-up or otherwise) and authenticity due to his time in the Navy. The only thing missing is the smell of the salty air in the submarine sequences. It's a pageturner, hard to put down, just like his previous books.
I can't recommend this book enough for anyone who has ever watched or read and enjoyed Tom Clancy's stories.
I can't recommend this book enough for anyone who has ever watched or read and enjoyed Tom Clancy's stories.
April 18, 2019
Talk about an exciting thriller! After a military coup in Russia, the action is fast, furious and intense as the US responds. This was a fast moving story with lots and lots of tension and interesting characters. I loved the submarine aspect of the story and I also loved the role that the female protagonist played. Can't wait to see what the next book in this series will reveal.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
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May 4, 2020I thought this was a great book once I started to read it I couldn't put it down. Read all your books and can hardly wait until the next one come out. It was wonderful to meet you finally at the reunion in Fredericksburg, Va . Everybody enjoyed meeting you and quite of fews of them told me that they had startled reading your book. The WW II vet John Smith was very happy to meet you that was his first reunion.
Keep up good work I look forward to reading your next book
Keep up good work I look forward to reading your next book
January 24, 2019
I received this book from St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley in return for my review.
An outstanding story, fast-paced and non-stop action. The characters are well developed and believable. I truly couldn’t put this book aside until I was finished with it, even though I’m on vacation in Hawaii. Rick Campbell will become an author I follow!
An outstanding story, fast-paced and non-stop action. The characters are well developed and believable. I truly couldn’t put this book aside until I was finished with it, even though I’m on vacation in Hawaii. Rick Campbell will become an author I follow!
April 19, 2019
Another great effort in this series of global intrigue and warfare. The author’s background makes him an expert in writing about all aspects of submarine operations. As with his previous works, it is very hard to stop turning pages. I had to force myself to take a break halfway through. The only drawback is that an attack on the Kremlin at the end stretched believability.
March 31, 2019
If you enjoy edge-of-your-seat military thriller authors such as Larry Bond and Tom Clancy, then you need to take time to read Treason ( Trident Deception #5)by Rick Campbell. The plot revolves around a Russian government who was recently humiliated by the U. S. In an attempt get revenge, part of the leadership launches a coup and deploys a weapon which renders America's misses impotent. The only way for America to stop Russia from reclaiming part of the former Soviet Union is to rescue their deposed president and create a countermeasure to once again allow the use of missles. I give this book 4/5 stars.
*A copy of the ebook is the only compensation received for this review. *
*A copy of the ebook is the only compensation received for this review. *
April 28, 2019
I read this book outside of my genres because I moderated a panel with the author and was surprised to find myself sucked into it at times. Some of the potentially catastrophic events that would send the world into all-out war were a little far-fetched at times, but Campbell excelled when it came to the drama of SEAL team firefights.
June 16, 2019
This sure was a good book.
I enjoyed this book as well as the others in this series. Good plot, even though one thing is hard imagine it could really happen, but then again, this is fiction.
I enjoyed this book as well as the others in this series. Good plot, even though one thing is hard imagine it could really happen, but then again, this is fiction.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews