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Clandestine Operations #4
Death at Nuremberg
Assigned to the Nuremberg war trials, special agent James Cronley Jr. finds himself fighting several wars at once in the dramatic new Clandestine Operations novel about the birth of the Central Intelligence Agency and the Cold War
When Jim Cronley hears he's just won the Legion of Merit, he figures there's another shoe to drop, and it's a big one: He's out as Chief, DCI-Europe. His new assignments, however, couldn't be bigger: to protect the U.S. chief prosecutor in the Nuremberg trials from a rumored Soviet NKGB kidnapping, and to hunt down and dismantle the infamous Odessa, an organization dedicated to helping Nazi war criminals escape to South America.
It doesn't take long for the first attempt on his life, and then the second. NKGB or Odessa? Who can tell? The deeper he pushes, the more secrets tumble out: a scheme to swap Nazi gold for currency, a religious cult organized around Himmler himself, an NKGB agent who is actually working for the Mossad, a German cousin who turns out to be more malevolent than he appears--and a distractingly attractive newspaperwoman who seems to be asking an awful lot of questions. Which one will turn out to be the most dangerous? Cronley wishes he knew.
When Jim Cronley hears he's just won the Legion of Merit, he figures there's another shoe to drop, and it's a big one: He's out as Chief, DCI-Europe. His new assignments, however, couldn't be bigger: to protect the U.S. chief prosecutor in the Nuremberg trials from a rumored Soviet NKGB kidnapping, and to hunt down and dismantle the infamous Odessa, an organization dedicated to helping Nazi war criminals escape to South America.
It doesn't take long for the first attempt on his life, and then the second. NKGB or Odessa? Who can tell? The deeper he pushes, the more secrets tumble out: a scheme to swap Nazi gold for currency, a religious cult organized around Himmler himself, an NKGB agent who is actually working for the Mossad, a German cousin who turns out to be more malevolent than he appears--and a distractingly attractive newspaperwoman who seems to be asking an awful lot of questions. Which one will turn out to be the most dangerous? Cronley wishes he knew.
416 pages, Paperback
First published December 26, 2017
633 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
W.E.B. Griffin
351 books1,298 followersW.E.B. Griffin was one of several pseudonyms for William E. Butterworth III.
From the Authors Website:
W.E.B. Griffin was the #1 best-selling author of more than fifty epic novels in seven series, all of which have made The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Publishers Weekly, and other best-seller lists. More than fifty million of the books are in print in more than ten languages, including Hebrew, Chinese, Japanese, and Hungarian.
Mr. Griffin grew up in the suburbs of New York City and Philadelphia. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1946. After basic training, he received counterintelligence training at Fort Holabird, Maryland. He was assigned to the Army of Occupation in Germany, and ultimately to the staff of then-Major General I.D. White, commander of the U.S. Constabulary.
In 1951, Mr. Griffin was recalled to active duty for the Korean War, interrupting his education at Phillips University, Marburg an der Lahn, Germany. In Korea he earned the Combat Infantry Badge as a combat correspondent and later served as acting X Corps (Group) information officer under Lieutenant General White.
On his release from active duty in 1953, Mr. Griffin was appointed Chief of the Publications Division of the U.S. Army Signal Aviation Test & Support Activity at Fort Rucker, Alabama.
Mr. Griffin was a member of the Special Operations Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Army Aviation Association, the Armor Association, and the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Society.
He was the 1991 recipient of the Brigadier General Robert L. Dening Memorial Distinguished Service Award of the U.S. Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association, and the August 1999 recipient of the Veterans of Foreign Wars News Media Award, presented at the 100th National Convention in Kansas City.
He has been vested into the Order of St. George of the U.S. Armor Association, and the Order of St. Andrew of the U.S. Army Aviation Association, and been awarded Honorary Doctoral degrees by Norwich University, the nation’s first and oldest private military college, and by Troy State University (Ala.). He was the graduation dinner speaker for the class of 1988 at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
He has been awarded honorary membership in the Special Forces Association, the Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association, the Marine Raiders Association, and the U.S. Army Otter & Caribou Association. In January 2003, he was made a life member of the Police Chiefs Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and the State of Delaware.
He was the co-founder, with historian Colonel Carlo D’Este, of the William E. Colby Seminar on Intelligence, Military, and Diplomatic Affairs. (Details here and here)
He was a Life Member of the National Rifle Association. And he belongs to the Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Pensacola, Florida, chapters of the Flat Earth Society.
Mr. Griffin’s novels, known for their historical accuracy, have been praised by The Philadelphia Inquirer for their “fierce, stop-for-nothing scenes.”
“Nothing honors me more than a serviceman, veteran, or cop telling me he enjoys reading my books,” Mr. Griffin says.
Mr. Griffin divides his time between the Gulf Coast and Buenos Aires.
Notes:
Other Pseudonyms
* Alex Baldwin
* Webb Beech
* Walker E. Blake
* W.E. Butterworth
* James McM. Douglas
* Eden Hughes
* Edmund O. Scholefield
* Patrick J. Williams
* W. E. Butterworth
* John Kevin Dugan
* Jac
From the Authors Website:
W.E.B. Griffin was the #1 best-selling author of more than fifty epic novels in seven series, all of which have made The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Publishers Weekly, and other best-seller lists. More than fifty million of the books are in print in more than ten languages, including Hebrew, Chinese, Japanese, and Hungarian.
Mr. Griffin grew up in the suburbs of New York City and Philadelphia. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1946. After basic training, he received counterintelligence training at Fort Holabird, Maryland. He was assigned to the Army of Occupation in Germany, and ultimately to the staff of then-Major General I.D. White, commander of the U.S. Constabulary.
In 1951, Mr. Griffin was recalled to active duty for the Korean War, interrupting his education at Phillips University, Marburg an der Lahn, Germany. In Korea he earned the Combat Infantry Badge as a combat correspondent and later served as acting X Corps (Group) information officer under Lieutenant General White.
On his release from active duty in 1953, Mr. Griffin was appointed Chief of the Publications Division of the U.S. Army Signal Aviation Test & Support Activity at Fort Rucker, Alabama.
Mr. Griffin was a member of the Special Operations Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Army Aviation Association, the Armor Association, and the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Society.
He was the 1991 recipient of the Brigadier General Robert L. Dening Memorial Distinguished Service Award of the U.S. Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association, and the August 1999 recipient of the Veterans of Foreign Wars News Media Award, presented at the 100th National Convention in Kansas City.
He has been vested into the Order of St. George of the U.S. Armor Association, and the Order of St. Andrew of the U.S. Army Aviation Association, and been awarded Honorary Doctoral degrees by Norwich University, the nation’s first and oldest private military college, and by Troy State University (Ala.). He was the graduation dinner speaker for the class of 1988 at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
He has been awarded honorary membership in the Special Forces Association, the Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association, the Marine Raiders Association, and the U.S. Army Otter & Caribou Association. In January 2003, he was made a life member of the Police Chiefs Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and the State of Delaware.
He was the co-founder, with historian Colonel Carlo D’Este, of the William E. Colby Seminar on Intelligence, Military, and Diplomatic Affairs. (Details here and here)
He was a Life Member of the National Rifle Association. And he belongs to the Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Pensacola, Florida, chapters of the Flat Earth Society.
Mr. Griffin’s novels, known for their historical accuracy, have been praised by The Philadelphia Inquirer for their “fierce, stop-for-nothing scenes.”
“Nothing honors me more than a serviceman, veteran, or cop telling me he enjoys reading my books,” Mr. Griffin says.
Mr. Griffin divides his time between the Gulf Coast and Buenos Aires.
Notes:
Other Pseudonyms
* Alex Baldwin
* Webb Beech
* Walker E. Blake
* W.E. Butterworth
* James McM. Douglas
* Eden Hughes
* Edmund O. Scholefield
* Patrick J. Williams
* W. E. Butterworth
* John Kevin Dugan
* Jac
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
May 2, 2018
Just a great story revolving around the immediate aftermath of WWII. 9 of 10 stars
February 15, 2018
I know that Griffin's books follow a basic formula, but they are always a fun read.
Historical fiction with humor and a bit of M*A*S*H irreverence tossed in.
I admit that I often find myself looking up the historical facts in the WW II stories and end up learning by accident.
General Gehlen is a prime example.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reinh...
Historical fiction with humor and a bit of M*A*S*H irreverence tossed in.
I admit that I often find myself looking up the historical facts in the WW II stories and end up learning by accident.
General Gehlen is a prime example.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reinh...
February 16, 2018
A continuation of the trails and tribulations of DCI Jim Cronley. As the European CDI is enlarged he is transferred to Nuremberg to protect the chief American Justice and prosecutor. He is also tasked with closing down the German Odessa organization which leads to attempts on his life. Griffin provides another gripping tale.
February 27, 2022
An entertaining story. At times confusing with the number of characters, with complex names and titles in German, French and Polish. Probably the best of the series so far. One more to go.
February 5, 2018
Griffin and Butterworth continue their tale of the beginning of the cold war between USA and USSR. Special Agent James Cronley, Jr. got assigned to guard the US Prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials while still trying to track down Nazi criminals while thwarting NKVD and Odessa. If you have been reading this series, you will probably enjoy this addition.
October 3, 2024
The 4th installment of the Clandestine Operations series begins February 1946 and sees Cronley relieved of command of DCI Europe. He is assigned to the Nuremberg Trials as personal protection for the American prosecutor in charge.
Another fun entry in the amusing adventures of Captain James Cronley
Another fun entry in the amusing adventures of Captain James Cronley
April 7, 2024
Great read. 👍
January 24, 2018
A continuation of the first 3 books in the series about actions in Germany immediately following WW II. The book is an interesting mix of fact and fiction with many segments dramatizing actual historical events which were probably classified for some time. The central character's FREQUENT REPETITIONS of how he is not qualified for the post he holds and that he has let his loose mouth take control again starts to detract from the story's theme but overall it is an interesting read.
October 4, 2019
After digging into the early parts of this book, I had high hopes that WEB 4 had FINALLY gotten the hang of carrying his dad's torch. Shocker.....no such luck. I keep trying these newer WEB books as I am a follower of THE Web Griffin series. WEB 4 doesnt have the touch and wastes way too much time of the reader's by repeating crap over & over. I implore any new WEB fans to go back to the 80s & 90s and read the stories actually penned by WEB. These new books do not do justice to the long time series. They're merely OK for free library reads, but I'd never spend real $$ on them.
April 11, 2018
Another great web Griffin
Ex enjoyed both the pace and the scope of the adventure the nomenclature and use of the Stars and Stripes as a vehicle was very interesting. The end of the book and the conclusion we're very satisfying. As always I would highly recommend web Griffin's series. Submit
Ex enjoyed both the pace and the scope of the adventure the nomenclature and use of the Stars and Stripes as a vehicle was very interesting. The end of the book and the conclusion we're very satisfying. As always I would highly recommend web Griffin's series. Submit
February 20, 2018
I love this series, as I have enjoyed and loved all of W.E.B. Griffin's series of books. But sadly this one seems to have been written more by Mr. Butterworth than Mr. Griffin. I say this as it seems as if most of the book was conversations, often repeated to another character to meet a certain number of words requirement rather than the action of the many preceding books authored prior to Mr. Butterworth beginning to take over all these great characters developed by Mr. Griffin. The bloom is off this rose and I can only hope that a new outburst of blooms will be forthcoming in any future books or I simply will no longer invest my time in reading them anymore. Instead, I will re-read the early series, of which I own every copy for the umpteenth time still thoroughly enjoying them to no end! I hope the author will take heed of my comments as I intend them to be - encouragement and not threatening! I truly do look to a return to the former style of fast-paced action I have so enjoyed in previous books.
October 30, 2019
I should have re-read my review of the previous book in the series before I took this out of the library.
The only reason this got a single star from me is I have an interest in the Nuremberg Trials, otherwise a total ZERO
WEB Griffin has gone so far downhill he will never see the crest again. And I remain convinced he is paid by the word.
The utter drivel of the conversations...the automatic mouth nonsense.....the thought balloons....all on the level of a fifth grade education. Thank god I have figured out how to skip most of the nonsense in italics, without missing a single original thought.
The final straw was the five pages of nonsense on the Alamo when they were discussing a life and death situation.
The only reason this got a single star from me is I have an interest in the Nuremberg Trials, otherwise a total ZERO
WEB Griffin has gone so far downhill he will never see the crest again. And I remain convinced he is paid by the word.
The utter drivel of the conversations...the automatic mouth nonsense.....the thought balloons....all on the level of a fifth grade education. Thank god I have figured out how to skip most of the nonsense in italics, without missing a single original thought.
The final straw was the five pages of nonsense on the Alamo when they were discussing a life and death situation.
January 3, 2018
Awful. If I ever hear someone say his mouth "went on automatic" one more time, I won't be responsible for my actions. And the gentleman who read this audio book was just dreadful. His accents were reminiscent of bad 40's movies. And when his women's voices - simply caricatures. Dreadful. Mr. Griffin's books used to be an auto purchase for me. MUCH better before his son got involved. If you haven't already done so, read W.E.B. Griffin's earlier books, especially the Lieutenants, Captains, Majors, Generals series and the series about the Green Berets. You can see when the quality began to slip.
March 6, 2018
Couldn't put it down---read within 24 hours. Very important to read the series in order. I read standalone books periodically, but I prefer series. The problem with some authors/series is new books don't come out for a year or so, and I have read other books. So at my age, my mind has to separate the different characters from all of the other books/characters playing around in my head. Sometimes it takes a while. I have read most of Griffin's series in order and very glad because I have a basis.
January 10, 2018
A typical Griffin/Butterworth book with lots of dialogue, and little action
December 5, 2018
W. E. B. Griffin and William E. Butterworth IV’s new Clandestine Operations novel pits special agent James Cronley, Jr. against not only Russian operatives but also his military superiors. Cronley, distinguished for having been awarded the Legion of Merit, now comes under the radar of the President of the United States. In 1946, Germany has been divided by its conquerors into two military-occupied zones: East and West Germany. The climate is ripe for intrigue, with the Russians and Americans in total distrust of one another, and the Nuremberg trials for war crimes set to begin.
Cronley’s title is Chief, DCI-Europe, a secret arm of Central Intelligence that replaces the Office of Strategic Services. Now promoted to Captain, he answers to Major Harold Wallace. The youngest officer of his ranking, Cronley obeys orders to report to the Major, along with Admiral Sidney Souers of the Navy. He is photographed while receiving his Legion of Merit award, presumably for the benefit of President Harry Truman. Truman’s personal friend, Justice Robert H. Jackson, will be the U.S. Chief Prosecutor in Nuremberg. Admiral Souers considers the honor of Jackson’s security a plum assignment for Cronley.
During the discourse and explanation of his new duties, Cronley’s “automatic mouth” astounds the brass with untimely remarks. Despite his uncanny abilities, he is most known for his lack of self-control. He may even tend to cross the fine line of his authority.
In Nuremberg, rumors fly that Justice Jackson is being targeted for kidnapping by the Russians. But Cronley discovers an even bigger threat: Odessa, an organization dedicated to smuggling former Nazi officials and their families into South America. Cronley feels that Odessa must be stopped and dismantled so that the trials may proceed without disruption. The biggest names, Nazi perpetrators, are jailed in the city and await trial. Both Russian and American occupiers seek the glory for justice to come.
A chilling discovery opens the window to the past activities of SS Commander Heinrich Himmler, with the setup of a new world religion, his brainchild. Unraveling its full extent, the lengths to which its proponents have gone to spread the ideology even after Germany’s defeat, is the task Cronley now accepts. If Odessa is part and parcel of Himmler’s plan, it must be stopped.
Good espionage books need a bit of feminine appeal, and the authors provide one in Janice Johansen, a war correspondent who inserts herself into the German happenings with ease. When Cronley’s quarters upgrade to a former hotel, Janice comes along “for her safety.” Incidentally, she provides amorous relief for him when time permits. Her role is not only to ask questions and pry into matters far above her security clearance, but also to cooperate fully with Cronley’s investigations.
DEATH AT NUREMBERG is packed with military detail, personality clashes, unknown loyalties, a distant relative’s treachery discovered, and a race to provide safety for those Americans in charge of that city. Never mind the fact that Jim Cronley is targeted more than once for murder. The Clandestine Operations series gives the reader a generous education into the intrigue leading up to the Cold War with Russia.
Reviewed by Judy Gigstad
Cronley’s title is Chief, DCI-Europe, a secret arm of Central Intelligence that replaces the Office of Strategic Services. Now promoted to Captain, he answers to Major Harold Wallace. The youngest officer of his ranking, Cronley obeys orders to report to the Major, along with Admiral Sidney Souers of the Navy. He is photographed while receiving his Legion of Merit award, presumably for the benefit of President Harry Truman. Truman’s personal friend, Justice Robert H. Jackson, will be the U.S. Chief Prosecutor in Nuremberg. Admiral Souers considers the honor of Jackson’s security a plum assignment for Cronley.
During the discourse and explanation of his new duties, Cronley’s “automatic mouth” astounds the brass with untimely remarks. Despite his uncanny abilities, he is most known for his lack of self-control. He may even tend to cross the fine line of his authority.
In Nuremberg, rumors fly that Justice Jackson is being targeted for kidnapping by the Russians. But Cronley discovers an even bigger threat: Odessa, an organization dedicated to smuggling former Nazi officials and their families into South America. Cronley feels that Odessa must be stopped and dismantled so that the trials may proceed without disruption. The biggest names, Nazi perpetrators, are jailed in the city and await trial. Both Russian and American occupiers seek the glory for justice to come.
A chilling discovery opens the window to the past activities of SS Commander Heinrich Himmler, with the setup of a new world religion, his brainchild. Unraveling its full extent, the lengths to which its proponents have gone to spread the ideology even after Germany’s defeat, is the task Cronley now accepts. If Odessa is part and parcel of Himmler’s plan, it must be stopped.
Good espionage books need a bit of feminine appeal, and the authors provide one in Janice Johansen, a war correspondent who inserts herself into the German happenings with ease. When Cronley’s quarters upgrade to a former hotel, Janice comes along “for her safety.” Incidentally, she provides amorous relief for him when time permits. Her role is not only to ask questions and pry into matters far above her security clearance, but also to cooperate fully with Cronley’s investigations.
DEATH AT NUREMBERG is packed with military detail, personality clashes, unknown loyalties, a distant relative’s treachery discovered, and a race to provide safety for those Americans in charge of that city. Never mind the fact that Jim Cronley is targeted more than once for murder. The Clandestine Operations series gives the reader a generous education into the intrigue leading up to the Cold War with Russia.
Reviewed by Judy Gigstad
January 28, 2018
SUBJECTIVE READER REVIEW WITH PLOT SPOILERS FOLLOWS:
Though allegedly a figment of Bill Butterworth's imagination, the story of the lead-up to the Trials at Nuremburg was both entertaining and educational. Griffin exposes the naïve masses to Irminism, the solely German spiritual counterpart to Roman Christianity. I learned, for instance, that Hermanndenkmal, heroically worshipped as Arminius, consolidated the Germanic tribes to defeat the Roman Legions in the Battle of Teutorburg Forest in 7 AD. Subsequent to this resounding defeat, the Romans never ventured to the east of the Rhine again! The other major revelation to me was the Nuremburg Laws of 1935 was the 'law for the Protection of German Blood and German Honor.' Section B of the Laws dealt with active measures to be taken to insure Section A was achieved. Interestingly, Konzentrationslager Dachau was opened in 1933, at first to detain communists, homosexuals and other 'non-conformists.' So, we now know the formal statute that prompted the Final Solution of Hitler, otherwise known as The Holocaust.
I never knew the irony of holding the International Military Tribunals at Nuremburg before, but it would appear the Allies wanted to make a point of the Thousand Year Reich ending where it started. 'Death at Nuremburg' is merely a warm-up for the trials, setting the stage and the characters for what Harry Truman insisted be a public exposition of Nazi atrocities, otherwise the public executions could or would be viewed solely as Jewish retribution.
It's an interesting story because it's published as part of the Clandestine Operations series, the characters of which are 'gray zone' masters. The end of the war in 1945 set many things in motion, not the least of which was Nazi Abwehr Ost Leader MGEN Reinhard Gehlen making a proposal to Allen Dulles to turn over his entire organization of assets in exchange for protection from the Soviet NKVD. Since Intelligence East focused solely on the Russians and the NKVD, Gehlen's large group of espionage officers, analysts and deeply-planted spies in Moscow became the first major accretion of the CIA, created in 1947. Gehlen's Group continued to operate as an adjunct to the CIA until 1956, when the Group in its entirety became the German Intelligence Agency, the BND. The early years, the mid-1940s became the wild, wild west where enterprising and smart young officers could shoot from the hip and live a glamorous life far beyond their means.
I strongly suggest you get 'Death in Nuremburg' and enjoy it. I've read 53 of W.E.B. Griffin's novels previously, so I am very comfortable with the writing style, and the fact that the print's not small or crowded and the action's constantly changing venues. Tell me if I'm not right!!!
Though allegedly a figment of Bill Butterworth's imagination, the story of the lead-up to the Trials at Nuremburg was both entertaining and educational. Griffin exposes the naïve masses to Irminism, the solely German spiritual counterpart to Roman Christianity. I learned, for instance, that Hermanndenkmal, heroically worshipped as Arminius, consolidated the Germanic tribes to defeat the Roman Legions in the Battle of Teutorburg Forest in 7 AD. Subsequent to this resounding defeat, the Romans never ventured to the east of the Rhine again! The other major revelation to me was the Nuremburg Laws of 1935 was the 'law for the Protection of German Blood and German Honor.' Section B of the Laws dealt with active measures to be taken to insure Section A was achieved. Interestingly, Konzentrationslager Dachau was opened in 1933, at first to detain communists, homosexuals and other 'non-conformists.' So, we now know the formal statute that prompted the Final Solution of Hitler, otherwise known as The Holocaust.
I never knew the irony of holding the International Military Tribunals at Nuremburg before, but it would appear the Allies wanted to make a point of the Thousand Year Reich ending where it started. 'Death at Nuremburg' is merely a warm-up for the trials, setting the stage and the characters for what Harry Truman insisted be a public exposition of Nazi atrocities, otherwise the public executions could or would be viewed solely as Jewish retribution.
It's an interesting story because it's published as part of the Clandestine Operations series, the characters of which are 'gray zone' masters. The end of the war in 1945 set many things in motion, not the least of which was Nazi Abwehr Ost Leader MGEN Reinhard Gehlen making a proposal to Allen Dulles to turn over his entire organization of assets in exchange for protection from the Soviet NKVD. Since Intelligence East focused solely on the Russians and the NKVD, Gehlen's large group of espionage officers, analysts and deeply-planted spies in Moscow became the first major accretion of the CIA, created in 1947. Gehlen's Group continued to operate as an adjunct to the CIA until 1956, when the Group in its entirety became the German Intelligence Agency, the BND. The early years, the mid-1940s became the wild, wild west where enterprising and smart young officers could shoot from the hip and live a glamorous life far beyond their means.
I strongly suggest you get 'Death in Nuremburg' and enjoy it. I've read 53 of W.E.B. Griffin's novels previously, so I am very comfortable with the writing style, and the fact that the print's not small or crowded and the action's constantly changing venues. Tell me if I'm not right!!!
July 31, 2019
Death at Nuremberg
While I have generally loved the WEB Griffin books, I could not finish this one. To begin with, I read it in audio format and could not stand the narrator. This was the least talented reader I have ever experienced. His female characters were outrageous; and all of the other voices and accents were ludicrous.
It is generally advisable to read books in a series in the order in which they were published. Unfortunately, I did not do so with this book. Rather, I read the audio version of “Enemy of My Enemy” prior to this read. It was narrated by one of my favorite readers – Scott Brick. Therefore, I became accustomed to the “voice“ of Jim Cronley. And the narration by Alexander Cendese on this book was jarring at best and extremely displeasing. Also, there were long passages of lecture-style presentations of historical information that were very tedious. And then there were repetitions. For example, I couldn’t stand to hear one more time that Cronley’s mouth “went on automatic.” It seems to me that an officer in his position should be more circumspect and in better control of his mouth—particularly while addressing superior officers. Since Griffin began co-authoring with his son, Butterworth, the quality of of all the books in all the series has decreased dramatically. For years, I could hardly wait to purchase the hardcopy versions of Griffin’s latest releases as soon as they hit the market. Now, I dutifully try to read all the books I’ve not as yet read, but casually do so when they become available in audio from my library.
While I have generally loved the WEB Griffin books, I could not finish this one. To begin with, I read it in audio format and could not stand the narrator. This was the least talented reader I have ever experienced. His female characters were outrageous; and all of the other voices and accents were ludicrous.
It is generally advisable to read books in a series in the order in which they were published. Unfortunately, I did not do so with this book. Rather, I read the audio version of “Enemy of My Enemy” prior to this read. It was narrated by one of my favorite readers – Scott Brick. Therefore, I became accustomed to the “voice“ of Jim Cronley. And the narration by Alexander Cendese on this book was jarring at best and extremely displeasing. Also, there were long passages of lecture-style presentations of historical information that were very tedious. And then there were repetitions. For example, I couldn’t stand to hear one more time that Cronley’s mouth “went on automatic.” It seems to me that an officer in his position should be more circumspect and in better control of his mouth—particularly while addressing superior officers. Since Griffin began co-authoring with his son, Butterworth, the quality of of all the books in all the series has decreased dramatically. For years, I could hardly wait to purchase the hardcopy versions of Griffin’s latest releases as soon as they hit the market. Now, I dutifully try to read all the books I’ve not as yet read, but casually do so when they become available in audio from my library.
February 21, 2018
Death at Nuremberg by W.E. B. Griffin and William E. Butterworth IV
This book takes place after the Allies won WWII. The same characters as the last couple of books. This one involves the Nazis trying to smuggle their cohorts out of Allied territory and the trials at Nuremberg.
The problem with Griffin books is if you have not read a good part of the series you would not have a clue with what is going on. I have read the series so I was fine. I just finished the book within the last hour and frankly can’t even remember the main protagonist name. Jim something or Super Spook as he was often referred to.
The chaotic aspects of post WWII and the advent of Russian interference are clearly shown. The ambivalence shown by former allies and adversaries proves enlightening.
I enjoyed the book but it was easy to put down. Lots of dialogue but minimal action.
Web: http://www.webgriffin.com/home.html
This book takes place after the Allies won WWII. The same characters as the last couple of books. This one involves the Nazis trying to smuggle their cohorts out of Allied territory and the trials at Nuremberg.
The problem with Griffin books is if you have not read a good part of the series you would not have a clue with what is going on. I have read the series so I was fine. I just finished the book within the last hour and frankly can’t even remember the main protagonist name. Jim something or Super Spook as he was often referred to.
The chaotic aspects of post WWII and the advent of Russian interference are clearly shown. The ambivalence shown by former allies and adversaries proves enlightening.
I enjoyed the book but it was easy to put down. Lots of dialogue but minimal action.
Web: http://www.webgriffin.com/home.html
January 29, 2025
One of the things I really like about this series is how in each book Griffin brings his heroes to an exciting victory that appears to resolve the situation, only to find out in the next book that there is so much more going on. It’s an excellent way to make you glad you read the earlier books in the series and a wonderful way to crank up the suspense.
This time, the Soviets (at least, it is probably the Soviets, we’re never quite sure) make an attempt to pay Jim Cronley back for getting the better of them in the last book by assassinating him. Unfortunately for them, they get Jim’s friend instead starting a new adventure that further uncovers the Nazi covert Odessa operation and adds a mysterious Nazi religion.
It’s exciting from beginning to end, but read the earlier books first.
This time, the Soviets (at least, it is probably the Soviets, we’re never quite sure) make an attempt to pay Jim Cronley back for getting the better of them in the last book by assassinating him. Unfortunately for them, they get Jim’s friend instead starting a new adventure that further uncovers the Nazi covert Odessa operation and adds a mysterious Nazi religion.
It’s exciting from beginning to end, but read the earlier books first.
June 6, 2018
W.E.B. Griffin and William Butterworth books are good
and has loads of unknown history in them. This particular book had numerous places where new characters would come into the storyline. That in itself is ok. But each time a new character entered the story there was a need to bring them up to speed on the on going operation. This took at least a page or two to explain the operation. The reader has to wade thru this explanation to each character each time. This was very tiresome and made the book a hard read to me.
and has loads of unknown history in them. This particular book had numerous places where new characters would come into the storyline. That in itself is ok. But each time a new character entered the story there was a need to bring them up to speed on the on going operation. This took at least a page or two to explain the operation. The reader has to wade thru this explanation to each character each time. This was very tiresome and made the book a hard read to me.
June 7, 2018
Death at Nuremberg is a great and suspenseful book. It shows how professional Cronley is but keeps it realistic and shows how much bigger the Neo-Nazi's organization is then he is. Some of the conversations are very interesting. I didn't know what is going to happen or who is a spy. However, sometimes, the conversations can be so boring and the characters don't know stuff almost everybody does now. For example, Thor, there were 2 who paragraphs on who Thor was. Now, everybody know who Thor is or at least know his name and what he does.
December 21, 2020
A continuation of DCI Jim Cronley's adventures. He is transferred to Nuremberg to protect the chief American prosecutor and tracking down Odessa. Again, there are many players in the book--sometimes hard to track them all. The book doesn't really have a climax, rather it seems like another chapter in this guy's life. It's a good story, but one would think that the book would be a bit richer as the author actually spent time here doing this kind of work. Historical fiction with humor and a bit of M*A*S*H irreverence tossed in....fun read.
October 21, 2023
It's so so. I enjoy reading these books, although they're certainly not deathless prose.
I am confused, though, about Von Dietelburg. In an earlier book, curtain of death, a character with the same name is a former german general who defected to the russians, and who is apprehended trying to kidnap two of Cronley's gals. He is later exchanged to the russians for Mattingly. In this book, though, Von Dietelburg is an Odessa guy, and seemingly the situation with the kidnapping never happened, and the exchange of Von Dietelburg for Mattingly never happened.
what's up with that?
I am confused, though, about Von Dietelburg. In an earlier book, curtain of death, a character with the same name is a former german general who defected to the russians, and who is apprehended trying to kidnap two of Cronley's gals. He is later exchanged to the russians for Mattingly. In this book, though, Von Dietelburg is an Odessa guy, and seemingly the situation with the kidnapping never happened, and the exchange of Von Dietelburg for Mattingly never happened.
what's up with that?
January 19, 2018
Another good book by W. E. B. Griffen. It starts out slow and then runs downhill as fast as you can read.
Most of the Griffin 's books have been written like this lately, but it still makes them enjoyable and quick reading. This espionage type of book with a sprinkling of sex and humor keeps the reader's interest right thru until the very end. I look forward to the next book in this series, when and if it is ever written.
Most of the Griffin 's books have been written like this lately, but it still makes them enjoyable and quick reading. This espionage type of book with a sprinkling of sex and humor keeps the reader's interest right thru until the very end. I look forward to the next book in this series, when and if it is ever written.
July 26, 2018
The 4th of what is a fantastic historical fiction series involving the operations of the OSS...In this one we are examining the evolving change from the OSS to the CIA under Truman & its role hunting former Nazi's, the breaking up of ODESSA, our issues with the Soviets & the setup of the Nuremberg Trials...they do a wonderful job of examining the philosophy behind the unprecedented concept of War Criminal...Solid series!!!
April 2, 2021
Too Many Errors!
Too many inconsistencies from book three to book four. In book three A L Tedworth was not killed as stated in book four. Also another character in book four was the German SS officer who detected to the Russians and tried to kidnap Dette and her friend...who was traded for Mattingly at the end of book three. To many other inconsistencies ruin the story line.
Too many inconsistencies from book three to book four. In book three A L Tedworth was not killed as stated in book four. Also another character in book four was the German SS officer who detected to the Russians and tried to kidnap Dette and her friend...who was traded for Mattingly at the end of book three. To many other inconsistencies ruin the story line.
April 25, 2024
Exciting follow-up in Clandestine Operations Series
Griffin and Butterworth keep the readers on the edge of their seats in this exciting series post WW2. The hunt for Odessa after WW2 reaches its zenith in this book with the capture of two of its top people. Read the whole series and find the fits and starts of the CIA in post WW2. It is a tale worth telling. It will leave the reader with the age old question of how much is truth an how much is fiction.
Griffin and Butterworth keep the readers on the edge of their seats in this exciting series post WW2. The hunt for Odessa after WW2 reaches its zenith in this book with the capture of two of its top people. Read the whole series and find the fits and starts of the CIA in post WW2. It is a tale worth telling. It will leave the reader with the age old question of how much is truth an how much is fiction.
January 15, 2018
Another Great book from Griffin/Butterworth
This book provides us with food for thought about the aftermath of WW II and the possible impact of SS operations after its ending!
Great read with lots of new and old characters throughout the book!
Looking forward to your next written word!
This book provides us with food for thought about the aftermath of WW II and the possible impact of SS operations after its ending!
Great read with lots of new and old characters throughout the book!
Looking forward to your next written word!
January 29, 2018
Finished DEATH AT NUREMBURG (Death at Nuremberg) by W. E. B. Griffin, a loaner from FLP. This is about the search for leaders of the ODESSA, a secret society charged with getting high ranking Nazi's out of harm's way, after WWII. This one only gets four stars because it does not end, it just sort of coasts to a stop, with the reader fully expecting to see "tune in tomorrow".
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