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Marcus Ryker #2
The Persian Gamble
The instant New York Times, USA TODAY, and Publishers Weekly bestseller!Over 100,000 copies sold!“Joel C. Rosenberg continues to mix his unique blend of prophetic fiction and nonstop action unlike anyone else working today.” —The Real Book Spy on The Persian Gamble.“The plot is intriguing. The pace just keeps accelerating. A must read!” —Porter Goss, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency on The Persian Gamble.In the follow-up to the New York Times bestselling Kremlin Conspiracy, Rosenberg’s latest international thriller tracks a terrifying nuclear alliance among three world powers―Russia, Iran, and North Korea―and the deadly mission former US Secret Service Agent Marcus Ryker must risk to halt their deadly strategy.Shot out of the air in enemy territory in the middle of the greatest international crisis since the end of the Cold War, former U.S. Secret Service agent Marcus Ryker finds himself facing an impossible task. Not only does he have to somehow elude detection and capture by Russian special forces, but he must convince his own government to grant safe harbor to the one man responsible for the global mayhem―Russian double agent and assassin Oleg Kraskin. While frantically negotiating with his contacts in the White House, Marcus learns that the unstable North Korean regime plans to use the international chaos as a smokescreen to sell nuclear weapons to Iran. With the fate of the entire free world on the line, Marcus makes a deal with the U.S. government―he will go back to work as an international operative and track down the WMDs before they end up in the hands of those with the determination and the means to use them. Marcus and Oleg worked together once before to avert a world war. Can they now find a way to stop world destruction?
431 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2019
1926 people are currently reading
2679 people want to read
About the author
Joel C. Rosenberg
56 books3,000 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Note: This is a different person than the fantasy author, Joel Rosenberg
Joel C. Rosenberg is the founder of The Joshua Fund and the New York Times best-selling author of THE LAST JIHAD (2002), THE LAST DAYS (2003), THE EZEKIEL OPTION (2005), THE COPPER SCROLL (2006), EPICENTER (2006) and DEAD HEAT (2008) with more than 1.5 million copies in print. THE EZEKIEL OPTION was named by the ECPA as the Gold Medallion winner of the "Best Novel of 2006." Joel, an evangelical Christian whose mother is Gentile and whose father is from an Orthodox Jewish background, previously worked with several U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Steve Forbes, former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows.
He and his wife have four sons and live near Washington, DC.
Note: This is a different person than the fantasy author, Joel Rosenberg
Joel C. Rosenberg is the founder of The Joshua Fund and the New York Times best-selling author of THE LAST JIHAD (2002), THE LAST DAYS (2003), THE EZEKIEL OPTION (2005), THE COPPER SCROLL (2006), EPICENTER (2006) and DEAD HEAT (2008) with more than 1.5 million copies in print. THE EZEKIEL OPTION was named by the ECPA as the Gold Medallion winner of the "Best Novel of 2006." Joel, an evangelical Christian whose mother is Gentile and whose father is from an Orthodox Jewish background, previously worked with several U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Steve Forbes, former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, and former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows.
He and his wife have four sons and live near Washington, DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 561 reviews
March 12, 2019
Out today!!
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Joel C. Rosenberg, and Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Joel C. Rosenberg is back with another political thriller that is quite timely, knowing current geo-political situations. With Marcus Ryker inside Russia, he is on a mission to bring an agent planted inside the Russian Government to safety, where they can discuss much of what he has learned. However, with the recent assassination of the Russian President and head of the FSB, there is a really good chance that this mole (and Ryker) are behind the killings, making the manhunt to find them all the more intense. When even the US Government is leery about helping, Ryker knows that he will have to reveal some of the intel to ensure their safe extraction from the edges of the Russian border region. It would seem that the Russians have made a secret military alliance with the North Koreans, which could help both sides in the event of aggression from other parts of the world. Other intel includes Russia’s plans to annex some of its former Soviet satellite countries, thereby beginning a war with NATO that is surely to devolve into a bloodbath. Add that to the news that the recently neutered Iranians have been covertly communicating with the North Koreans to obtain key pieces necessary to create a nuclear arsenal, and things could not be worse. With nuclear capabilities, the Iranians could be used against Israel, the Americans, and any others who seek to disrupt them. As Ryker fights to help out however he can, he remembers his strong Christian ties and wrestles with the increased amount of violence that will soon take place to end these political nightmares. As he tries to justify it, Ryker is sent to Japan to prepare for another mission, covertly scouting out the North Korean warheads being shipped to their Iranian partners. With bodies piling up all around them, Ryker sees friends and foes alike lose their lives, which only tests his religious beliefs, forcing him to question his role in the entire affair. A well-plotted novel that always takes politics to a new level. Fans of Rosenberg will surely want to get their hands on this piece to devour the political banter, if nothing else.
I always enjoy a good Rosenberg novel, as he is not only on point about the political situation, but has an uncanny way of predicting the future with the plots of his stories. A few past novels have been spot-on with their predictions, leaving the reader with an eerie sense of ‘could it’ as they devour each new book. Marcus Ryker plays an interesting protagonist in this book, struggling to do his job and find a balance with his religious beliefs. Rosenberg does not inculcate the reader too much with this book, but there is mention of biblical scripture and Ryker ponders what it all means. He has lost his family, so there is little but his own life to ponder, making him an unpredictable character in the field. Many of the others around him prove highly entertaining as well, their beliefs and sentimentalities key to keeping the story on track. Rosenberg is masterful at his ability to create strong characters throughout the piece and keep them growing throughout. The plot was not only plausible but also highly in touch with what is going on in various political spheres. There is little chance that Rosenberg is completely off base with some of his ideas, though just how real they could turn out to be is sure to jolt some readers when the time comes. The chapters were quick and kept the reader pushing forward, while never losing interest. One can only hope that there is more to come, be it in the series or with Rosenberg’s writing, as he is able to weave a tale like few others I have seen in all my years of reading. Politically gritty with that softer Christian passivity when it suits the plot, this is an author about whom readers should take note, if they are not already familiar with his work.
Kudos, Mr. Rosenberg, for such a great new piece. I liked much about it, even if I try not to get too bogged down by the Christian aspects of your character development.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Joel C. Rosenberg, and Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Joel C. Rosenberg is back with another political thriller that is quite timely, knowing current geo-political situations. With Marcus Ryker inside Russia, he is on a mission to bring an agent planted inside the Russian Government to safety, where they can discuss much of what he has learned. However, with the recent assassination of the Russian President and head of the FSB, there is a really good chance that this mole (and Ryker) are behind the killings, making the manhunt to find them all the more intense. When even the US Government is leery about helping, Ryker knows that he will have to reveal some of the intel to ensure their safe extraction from the edges of the Russian border region. It would seem that the Russians have made a secret military alliance with the North Koreans, which could help both sides in the event of aggression from other parts of the world. Other intel includes Russia’s plans to annex some of its former Soviet satellite countries, thereby beginning a war with NATO that is surely to devolve into a bloodbath. Add that to the news that the recently neutered Iranians have been covertly communicating with the North Koreans to obtain key pieces necessary to create a nuclear arsenal, and things could not be worse. With nuclear capabilities, the Iranians could be used against Israel, the Americans, and any others who seek to disrupt them. As Ryker fights to help out however he can, he remembers his strong Christian ties and wrestles with the increased amount of violence that will soon take place to end these political nightmares. As he tries to justify it, Ryker is sent to Japan to prepare for another mission, covertly scouting out the North Korean warheads being shipped to their Iranian partners. With bodies piling up all around them, Ryker sees friends and foes alike lose their lives, which only tests his religious beliefs, forcing him to question his role in the entire affair. A well-plotted novel that always takes politics to a new level. Fans of Rosenberg will surely want to get their hands on this piece to devour the political banter, if nothing else.
I always enjoy a good Rosenberg novel, as he is not only on point about the political situation, but has an uncanny way of predicting the future with the plots of his stories. A few past novels have been spot-on with their predictions, leaving the reader with an eerie sense of ‘could it’ as they devour each new book. Marcus Ryker plays an interesting protagonist in this book, struggling to do his job and find a balance with his religious beliefs. Rosenberg does not inculcate the reader too much with this book, but there is mention of biblical scripture and Ryker ponders what it all means. He has lost his family, so there is little but his own life to ponder, making him an unpredictable character in the field. Many of the others around him prove highly entertaining as well, their beliefs and sentimentalities key to keeping the story on track. Rosenberg is masterful at his ability to create strong characters throughout the piece and keep them growing throughout. The plot was not only plausible but also highly in touch with what is going on in various political spheres. There is little chance that Rosenberg is completely off base with some of his ideas, though just how real they could turn out to be is sure to jolt some readers when the time comes. The chapters were quick and kept the reader pushing forward, while never losing interest. One can only hope that there is more to come, be it in the series or with Rosenberg’s writing, as he is able to weave a tale like few others I have seen in all my years of reading. Politically gritty with that softer Christian passivity when it suits the plot, this is an author about whom readers should take note, if they are not already familiar with his work.
Kudos, Mr. Rosenberg, for such a great new piece. I liked much about it, even if I try not to get too bogged down by the Christian aspects of your character development.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
June 11, 2019
The end could have been better with less reference connecting God with war. 7 of 10 stars
April 13, 2019
The first Marcus Ryker book The Kremlin Conspiracy ends with assassination of the Russian President by a Russian patriot convinced a world war was about to start. This sequel begins with Marcus, the assassin and a CIA agent (as pilot) trying to escape Moscow in a Gulfstream jet, parachuting to safety before being shot down by scrambled Russian fighters. As they are chased around the countryside, they obtain critical information about North Korea's acquisition of twenty Russian nuclear warheads to be situated on North Korea's new long-range missiles. Even worse is North Korea's plans to sell five of them to Iran for an enormous sum, provided by the U.S. as incentive for denuclearization. The U.S. is afraid to help these fugitives, and equally afraid not to help.
A fast-paced thriller in the genre of regional conflicts, with the potential to escalate to world war. Finally, there seems to be a worthy successor to the fine thrillers of Larry Bond.
A fast-paced thriller in the genre of regional conflicts, with the potential to escalate to world war. Finally, there seems to be a worthy successor to the fine thrillers of Larry Bond.
April 10, 2020
Joel C. Rosenberg nails it again; this time, combining thriller action/adventure elements with matters of faith. Can't wait to see what happens in the next volume!
March 30, 2019
Action packed novel regarding current events with Middle Eastern countries and North Korea. Good series!
February 3, 2019
A gripping read. Lots of action. A wee bit too much introspection at times, but a really enjoyable thriller that takes Marcus Ryker on his next journey.
March 24, 2019
Fun thriller, kept me on edge from Russia to D.C. to North Korea and eventually East China Sea. Does Rosenberg have something against the US Navy SEAL?
. THAT was pretty disappointing.
. THAT was pretty disappointing.
January 23, 2019
The Persian Gamble is the sequel to the Kremlin Conspiracy. Book 2 finds retired US Secret Service agent Marcus Ryker teamed up with Oleg Kraskin son in law of the Russian dictator. The two are on the run from both sides and have a limited amount of time to prevent a nuclear holocaust.
I found this book to be edge of my seat, no sleep exciting. The characters are strong and quite believable and the situations they get themselves into are fascinating. My only problem with this book is that I will have to wait a year to find out what happens next. So grab a mug of chai and settle in for a fantastic read!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
I found this book to be edge of my seat, no sleep exciting. The characters are strong and quite believable and the situations they get themselves into are fascinating. My only problem with this book is that I will have to wait a year to find out what happens next. So grab a mug of chai and settle in for a fantastic read!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
March 10, 2019
What would happen if Russia, North Korea, and Iran formed an alliance?
Given our current geo-political climate, the timeliness of this book is unsettling and too plausible for comfort. I hope everyone that reads this book takes the threat set forth in the plot seriously. The Persian Gamble has overtaken a couple of Rosenberg’s other books as my new favorite. I stayed up until 1:00 a.m. to finish it because I didn’t want to put it down.
Marcus Ryker returns at the exact point he left us at the end of The Kremlin Conspiracy, the first book in this series, parachuting from a jetliner moments before it is shot down by the Russian military. With him is the Russian double agent turned assassin who is THE one man with all of the information and contacts to stop an attack on the US. There is plenty of action in the story as Ryker tries to get the Russian and himself safely out of Russia and to the US. The question is whether the US leaders believe his story that the threat of nuclear attack is both real and imminent? Or, will they label him as a traitor?
Personal, professional, and national loyalties are questioned and tested. Risks are taken, and the true cost of living in a free nation is shown us through the sacrifices of our nation’s military heroes. The story moves across Russia, North Korea, Iran, and the U.S. as secret alliances are revealed and Ryker risks everything to save his country.
If you did not read the first book in the series, The Kremlin Conspiracy, the author gives you enough information at the beginning of this book to understand the previous story. I hope to see more books in this series as Mr. Rosenberg has set up Marcus Ryker to be a protagonist whose own losses and struggles are interwoven through the story and look to become as interesting as the stories themselves.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Given our current geo-political climate, the timeliness of this book is unsettling and too plausible for comfort. I hope everyone that reads this book takes the threat set forth in the plot seriously. The Persian Gamble has overtaken a couple of Rosenberg’s other books as my new favorite. I stayed up until 1:00 a.m. to finish it because I didn’t want to put it down.
Marcus Ryker returns at the exact point he left us at the end of The Kremlin Conspiracy, the first book in this series, parachuting from a jetliner moments before it is shot down by the Russian military. With him is the Russian double agent turned assassin who is THE one man with all of the information and contacts to stop an attack on the US. There is plenty of action in the story as Ryker tries to get the Russian and himself safely out of Russia and to the US. The question is whether the US leaders believe his story that the threat of nuclear attack is both real and imminent? Or, will they label him as a traitor?
Personal, professional, and national loyalties are questioned and tested. Risks are taken, and the true cost of living in a free nation is shown us through the sacrifices of our nation’s military heroes. The story moves across Russia, North Korea, Iran, and the U.S. as secret alliances are revealed and Ryker risks everything to save his country.
If you did not read the first book in the series, The Kremlin Conspiracy, the author gives you enough information at the beginning of this book to understand the previous story. I hope to see more books in this series as Mr. Rosenberg has set up Marcus Ryker to be a protagonist whose own losses and struggles are interwoven through the story and look to become as interesting as the stories themselves.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2019
I really liked this Marcus Ryker tale continuation but more of Oleg and Jenny should have been some how added since I really liked them too. Unfortunately this will be the last book by Rosenberg as an author for me. I just do not like his writing style. His use of questions drives me crazy and I never want to finish the books. This is sad because I do like his story lines.
March 14, 2019
A great thriller!
June 3, 2022
4 sterren - English Ebook- Dutch paperback
Joel C. Rosenberg’s thrilling novel “The Persian Gamble” opens with the murder of Russian President Luganov and FSB Chief Dimitri Nimkov by Russian double agent Oleg Kraskin. Wanting to defect and on the run with former Secret Agent Marcus Ryker and the CIA Chief of the Moscow Station Jenny Morris, the three are hunted not only by the Russians but the American government. Fearing that being rescued by American forces could mean his imprisonment or death. Ryker is determined to cut a deal with U.S. officials after finding out that the North Koreans are planning to use the chaos in Russia to sell nuclear weapons to Iran where the Ayatollah, dying of cancer, is scheming to ignite a Third World War.
Fast-paced and action-packed with a life or death parachute jump and explosions that rock the landscape, intensity and suspense build not only as Ryker is betrayed by his government while trying to broker a deal for a Presidential pardon, but when Iran orchestrates the shipment of warheads.
Terrifyingly realistic in this modern age, the emotion tension sparks as Rosenberg weaves in a strong sense of faith with Ryker's struggle to face the demons that have stalked him since the death of his wife and son, and as he tries to bring his close friends to faith before they face possible death on a critical mission. Even a mystery is born but never resolved when the Russian Prime Minister is murdered in this electrifying plot that progresses smoothly to a deadly confrontation near the end.
It is a well-written this page-turner I enjoyed a lot. In English as in Dutch.
Joel C. Rosenberg’s thrilling novel “The Persian Gamble” opens with the murder of Russian President Luganov and FSB Chief Dimitri Nimkov by Russian double agent Oleg Kraskin. Wanting to defect and on the run with former Secret Agent Marcus Ryker and the CIA Chief of the Moscow Station Jenny Morris, the three are hunted not only by the Russians but the American government. Fearing that being rescued by American forces could mean his imprisonment or death. Ryker is determined to cut a deal with U.S. officials after finding out that the North Koreans are planning to use the chaos in Russia to sell nuclear weapons to Iran where the Ayatollah, dying of cancer, is scheming to ignite a Third World War.
Fast-paced and action-packed with a life or death parachute jump and explosions that rock the landscape, intensity and suspense build not only as Ryker is betrayed by his government while trying to broker a deal for a Presidential pardon, but when Iran orchestrates the shipment of warheads.
Terrifyingly realistic in this modern age, the emotion tension sparks as Rosenberg weaves in a strong sense of faith with Ryker's struggle to face the demons that have stalked him since the death of his wife and son, and as he tries to bring his close friends to faith before they face possible death on a critical mission. Even a mystery is born but never resolved when the Russian Prime Minister is murdered in this electrifying plot that progresses smoothly to a deadly confrontation near the end.
It is a well-written this page-turner I enjoyed a lot. In English as in Dutch.
March 12, 2019
Former U.S. Secret Service agent Marcus Ryker finds himself facing an impossible task of not only somehow eluding detection and capture by Russian special forces, but he must convince his own government to grant safe harbor to the one man responsible for the global mayhem―Russian double agent and assassin Oleg Kraskin. While frantically negotiating with his contacts in the White House, Marcus learns that the unstable North Korean regime plans to use the international chaos as a smokescreen to sell nuclear weapons to Iran.
This book actually seemed more like two books in one to me. The first being the time the characters spent on the run in Russia and the second being the time spent in Eastern Asia. And for some reason it seemed a little disjointed. But still the whole book was very readable. There were a lot of characters to keep track of throughout the book both in the U. S. and throughout the world. But in dealing with governments, I realize that there are always a lot of people involved in the process. Still I found it hard at times to keep them all straight.
I always appreciate the way that the author presents the gospel in his books. I always encourage my friends to read his books since they are so relevant to what is happening in the world today. And they added benefit of having them read the gospel message is wonderful. And I always learn so much about geography when I look up the locations that he uses in his books. Since I am a traveler, I must look all of them up on a map. As to the ending, it was not the cliff hanger that many of his books have but I hope we will find out what happens to Marcus and Oleg going forward.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to purchasing it for our church library. I also thank Netgalley for the read. The above comments are my own.
This book actually seemed more like two books in one to me. The first being the time the characters spent on the run in Russia and the second being the time spent in Eastern Asia. And for some reason it seemed a little disjointed. But still the whole book was very readable. There were a lot of characters to keep track of throughout the book both in the U. S. and throughout the world. But in dealing with governments, I realize that there are always a lot of people involved in the process. Still I found it hard at times to keep them all straight.
I always appreciate the way that the author presents the gospel in his books. I always encourage my friends to read his books since they are so relevant to what is happening in the world today. And they added benefit of having them read the gospel message is wonderful. And I always learn so much about geography when I look up the locations that he uses in his books. Since I am a traveler, I must look all of them up on a map. As to the ending, it was not the cliff hanger that many of his books have but I hope we will find out what happens to Marcus and Oleg going forward.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to purchasing it for our church library. I also thank Netgalley for the read. The above comments are my own.
February 11, 2019
This is a great book. It’s a political thriller that reads like a Jason Bourne novel. One of the chase scenes was epic and would be great in a movie. It shocked me to think that the events in this book are reality for some of the men and women who protect and defend our country. I can’t imagine living with that kind of stress, danger, and urgency. I’m thankful for them and for all the things I will never know about what they’ve done.
Marcus and his Russian counterpart, Oleg, are willing to do crazy things to try to prevent World War III. Their alliance, unlikely as it is, captures them in a deadly game of cat and mouse. There is a ton of action and suspense. It’s a great read.
This book would be best if read after reading “The Kremlin Conspiracy.” This book starts up right where that one ends. I would highly recommend this book. It’s a page turner. Thank you to Tyndale House for providing me with an e-copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Marcus and his Russian counterpart, Oleg, are willing to do crazy things to try to prevent World War III. Their alliance, unlikely as it is, captures them in a deadly game of cat and mouse. There is a ton of action and suspense. It’s a great read.
This book would be best if read after reading “The Kremlin Conspiracy.” This book starts up right where that one ends. I would highly recommend this book. It’s a page turner. Thank you to Tyndale House for providing me with an e-copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2024
This book picks up 3 months before the Russian President is killed. The Iranians are working on getting nuclear weapons from North Korea. This book takes us through all the planning stages on both sides.
Marcus does what he can with those he got out of Russia after the murders. One thing he had to agree to is to with with the CIA to find and get those nukes. Get Alireza Al- Zanjani back to the US for charges would be a big plus.
Another interesting adventure in what could be happening behind the scene of our world politics.
Marcus does what he can with those he got out of Russia after the murders. One thing he had to agree to is to with with the CIA to find and get those nukes. Get Alireza Al- Zanjani back to the US for charges would be a big plus.
Another interesting adventure in what could be happening behind the scene of our world politics.
August 26, 2019
After The Kremlin Conspiracy, this was definitely a let down for me. The plot, the action and the characters were just simply not credible. There were too many instances of “super men” – ie. getting shot, bleeding out and then jumping back into the fray to kill the enemy and save the day.
Also, it seemed like most of the first half was giving back story while at least half of the second half was filled with various combats. Was this bucking for a Steven Seagal movie? I think so. Or maybe it was just written for those who like lots and LOTS of military action. If so, it was very realistic. I “heard” the noise of combat, I “heard” the bombs and blasts. I “felt” blown off my feet. I “felt” the wetness of the water when I plunged into the sea. Etc. Yes, this was definitely written for those who love military action.
Yes, this was extremely well written, just not my kind of book.
Also, it seemed like most of the first half was giving back story while at least half of the second half was filled with various combats. Was this bucking for a Steven Seagal movie? I think so. Or maybe it was just written for those who like lots and LOTS of military action. If so, it was very realistic. I “heard” the noise of combat, I “heard” the bombs and blasts. I “felt” blown off my feet. I “felt” the wetness of the water when I plunged into the sea. Etc. Yes, this was definitely written for those who love military action.
Yes, this was extremely well written, just not my kind of book.
March 20, 2024
Gets better as the end nears.
December 27, 2019
The uncanny magic of Joel C. Rosenberg's portrayal of globe spanning intrigue, conspiracies, political and cultural plots to control the minds, hearts, people, governments through the threat of nuclear weaponry is again brought to the reader in this second book in the Marcus Ryker series.
In book one of the series, The Kremlin Conspiracy, the ground work is laid leading up to The Persian Gamble. As book two begins the story is rehashed from The Kremlin Conspiracy's ending but seems to add more detail and depth. Leaders at the top of Russia's government are assassinated slowing the threat of war in the Balkins.
But it is revealed that there is now involvement between the Russians and North Korean government leaders to arm North Korea with nuclear warheads.
The behind the scenes plots, spying, and military actions is mind-boggling and a fearful thing for civilians to read. The potential for just such scenarios is frightful. To calm their racing heart as they read, one must keep in mind that this is fiction.
A story of stealth, survival, action, intrigue. A don't miss read for those who love action stories, strong heroes, virtually unbelievable happenings. And a story of one man's struggle with staying true to his faith in God and still being a soldier of the highest caliber.
In book one of the series, The Kremlin Conspiracy, the ground work is laid leading up to The Persian Gamble. As book two begins the story is rehashed from The Kremlin Conspiracy's ending but seems to add more detail and depth. Leaders at the top of Russia's government are assassinated slowing the threat of war in the Balkins.
But it is revealed that there is now involvement between the Russians and North Korean government leaders to arm North Korea with nuclear warheads.
The behind the scenes plots, spying, and military actions is mind-boggling and a fearful thing for civilians to read. The potential for just such scenarios is frightful. To calm their racing heart as they read, one must keep in mind that this is fiction.
A story of stealth, survival, action, intrigue. A don't miss read for those who love action stories, strong heroes, virtually unbelievable happenings. And a story of one man's struggle with staying true to his faith in God and still being a soldier of the highest caliber.
May 16, 2019
In this 2nd installment about Marcus Ryker we find him hip deep in trouble that is continuing to follow him as he navigates the political climate of potential nuclear war. Can he and a few close friends truly bring the world back from the brink of WWIII. The book is action packed and so close to present world events that you will find your self wondering if Rosenberg knows something about our current world that we have yet to hear.
Will North Korea, Iran, Russia and a host of other hostile countries truly succeed in launching a first nuclear strike against Israel, the United States and other possible western allies? They are so close to making it happen that it probably will happen.
But then enter Marcus Ryker and The Raven. These two men hold the potential answers to the crisis in their firm grip, but is it really a firm grip.
Rosenberg has a very unique style of writing that keeps you riveted as you read. You wonder if he, like Tom Clancy, happens to be a prophet of “things to come.” Taking a page out of the Bible about world tensions surrounding Israel and weave in current world events and Rosenberg paints a picture that is shockingly realistic. Hold on to your seat as you enter this roller coaster of events.
Will North Korea, Iran, Russia and a host of other hostile countries truly succeed in launching a first nuclear strike against Israel, the United States and other possible western allies? They are so close to making it happen that it probably will happen.
But then enter Marcus Ryker and The Raven. These two men hold the potential answers to the crisis in their firm grip, but is it really a firm grip.
Rosenberg has a very unique style of writing that keeps you riveted as you read. You wonder if he, like Tom Clancy, happens to be a prophet of “things to come.” Taking a page out of the Bible about world tensions surrounding Israel and weave in current world events and Rosenberg paints a picture that is shockingly realistic. Hold on to your seat as you enter this roller coaster of events.
March 18, 2019
Loved it
I found it intense. Great story. Good characters. I hope you feel the same way that I do. Always have enjoyed his work
I found it intense. Great story. Good characters. I hope you feel the same way that I do. Always have enjoyed his work
May 8, 2019
Wonderful, as usual. It seems like these books just keep getting better and better. Can't wait for the next one!!!
February 20, 2024
In the second book, we follow Marcus Ryker's journey. This was very packed with a myriad of characters from different countries. At some points, it was a bit difficult to keep up with the many characters and the sequence of events happening at the same time.
I enjoyed this one, but the first book was better in my opinion.
I enjoyed this one, but the first book was better in my opinion.
October 11, 2025
goed vervolg, maar wel eerder een afwerken van het vorige verhaal. Ik ga deze spionage thriller reeks verder bingen 😀
April 5, 2019
Yet another superb current events thriller from Rosenberg!
The unthinkable has happened. The Russian president and head of the FSB have just been assassinated! And it was done by the mole that the Americans have been working to get out of Russia. Now it a desperate escape attempt, Marcus Ryker, Oleg Kraskin, and Jenny Morris make it out of Moscow alive, but not for long. The plane is soon shot down by Russian MiGs, but the three manage to jump to safety, but still land on Russian soil. Jenny has been shot and needs medical attention. The United States believes that Marcus and Oleg should be labeled as traitors and Ryker should be tried for treason while Oleg should be handed back over to the Russians. But Marcus has a trick card up his sleeve that he must play to get presidential pardons and it concerns the transfer of Russian nuclear warheads from North Korea to Iran. If what Oleg has said is true, Iran seems to be on a time crunch to launch several nuclear missiles at Israel and the United States. It’s a gamble to be sure, but Marcus and Oleg haven’t lied yet.
Rosenberg continues yet another incredible series. Picking up at the exact spot where the previous book left off, readers focus on Marcus continuing troubles. Now a fugitive from his own country, he must figure out a way to get the group back to safety. Marcus traits as a true leader really emerge in this installment as does his compassion for others. He does what he must when it is kill or be killed, but that is never his motive. Several supporting characters return for this book including Vinetti and Pete Huang. Unfortunately, not everyone will remain alive be the end of this book. Packed with action and a very believable story line that could easily be in tomorrow’s papers, The Persian Gamble is as epic as it gets.
I always recommend his books for readers who love current events and a fantastic story! Pick up a copy of this book as soon as you can!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
The unthinkable has happened. The Russian president and head of the FSB have just been assassinated! And it was done by the mole that the Americans have been working to get out of Russia. Now it a desperate escape attempt, Marcus Ryker, Oleg Kraskin, and Jenny Morris make it out of Moscow alive, but not for long. The plane is soon shot down by Russian MiGs, but the three manage to jump to safety, but still land on Russian soil. Jenny has been shot and needs medical attention. The United States believes that Marcus and Oleg should be labeled as traitors and Ryker should be tried for treason while Oleg should be handed back over to the Russians. But Marcus has a trick card up his sleeve that he must play to get presidential pardons and it concerns the transfer of Russian nuclear warheads from North Korea to Iran. If what Oleg has said is true, Iran seems to be on a time crunch to launch several nuclear missiles at Israel and the United States. It’s a gamble to be sure, but Marcus and Oleg haven’t lied yet.
Rosenberg continues yet another incredible series. Picking up at the exact spot where the previous book left off, readers focus on Marcus continuing troubles. Now a fugitive from his own country, he must figure out a way to get the group back to safety. Marcus traits as a true leader really emerge in this installment as does his compassion for others. He does what he must when it is kill or be killed, but that is never his motive. Several supporting characters return for this book including Vinetti and Pete Huang. Unfortunately, not everyone will remain alive be the end of this book. Packed with action and a very believable story line that could easily be in tomorrow’s papers, The Persian Gamble is as epic as it gets.
I always recommend his books for readers who love current events and a fantastic story! Pick up a copy of this book as soon as you can!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
August 13, 2019
This book was another gripping political thriller by Joel Rosenberg! I finished the book this morning (and it's due back at the library TODAY!). Even though I was reading in a time crunch, I hardly needed one because this book was so hard to put down. I finished all 93 chapters in just a few days.
This book seemed to have more action than some of Rosenburg's other books - which I enjoyed.... Even if some of it was a little far fetched. Out of all of Marcus Ryker's daring stunts, it's hard to believe he's still alive!
From Russia, to North Korea, to the Middle East, I felt like this book was all over the place with more than just one plot - but it was still well written and fairly easy to follow along with everything taking place. I was able to remember the characters a bit better in this book and even remembered pretty much from the first book, The Kremlin Conspiracy.
I appreciated the spiritual content in this book, even if there wasn't a ton. I was saddened that Nick Vinetti did not trust Christ before his death - but it added a sobering effect to the book, and hopefully will make all who read it more sensitive to eternity and those around us who still need too receive Christ.
The ending was a bit disappointing... You come off this extreme high of Marcus finally killing the #1 man the US and Israel were after, and then in just a couple paragraphs the book just ends. I felt like the end of the book could have had a LOT more closure than it did - although, maybe Rosenburg is just setting the groundwork for book #3?!?
This book seemed to have more action than some of Rosenburg's other books - which I enjoyed.... Even if some of it was a little far fetched. Out of all of Marcus Ryker's daring stunts, it's hard to believe he's still alive!
From Russia, to North Korea, to the Middle East, I felt like this book was all over the place with more than just one plot - but it was still well written and fairly easy to follow along with everything taking place. I was able to remember the characters a bit better in this book and even remembered pretty much from the first book, The Kremlin Conspiracy.
I appreciated the spiritual content in this book, even if there wasn't a ton. I was saddened that Nick Vinetti did not trust Christ before his death - but it added a sobering effect to the book, and hopefully will make all who read it more sensitive to eternity and those around us who still need too receive Christ.
The ending was a bit disappointing... You come off this extreme high of Marcus finally killing the #1 man the US and Israel were after, and then in just a couple paragraphs the book just ends. I felt like the end of the book could have had a LOT more closure than it did - although, maybe Rosenburg is just setting the groundwork for book #3?!?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2019
The Persian Gamble is a four part thrill ride! Mr. Rosenberg has done it again by taking current events and mixing in a bit of fiction. The result is a story that makes you have to consciously tell yourself that it is fiction. This particular book plays on the escalating tensions between the U.S., Russians, North Korea, and the Iranians.
The main character is Marcus Ryker, whom most people met in The Kremlin Conspiracy. I must be upfront and say that I had not previously read The Kremlin Conspiracy. In fact I didn't realize that this was even a two part series until I completed the book. I wish I had read the first book but I don't feel like I missed anything in The Persian Gamble by not reading The Kremlin Conspiracy first. I enjoyed The Persian Gamble so much that I am seriously contemplating going back and reading The Kremlin Conspiracy.
If you like political thrillers I think you will enjoy this. It is one of the best that I have read lately.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
The main character is Marcus Ryker, whom most people met in The Kremlin Conspiracy. I must be upfront and say that I had not previously read The Kremlin Conspiracy. In fact I didn't realize that this was even a two part series until I completed the book. I wish I had read the first book but I don't feel like I missed anything in The Persian Gamble by not reading The Kremlin Conspiracy first. I enjoyed The Persian Gamble so much that I am seriously contemplating going back and reading The Kremlin Conspiracy.
If you like political thrillers I think you will enjoy this. It is one of the best that I have read lately.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
November 2, 2019
I liked the first part (The Kremlin Conspiracy) better. I feel like it jumped quite abruptly from finishing the events of the first book to the main objective of this one, and forgot almost completely about the characters that had developed for the first one.
Anyways, still enjoyable, and if you read The Kremlin Conspiracy, there's no way you can skip this one.
Anyways, still enjoyable, and if you read The Kremlin Conspiracy, there's no way you can skip this one.
April 16, 2020
JUST PLAIN FANTASTIC!
Great follow-up to the first book in the series, The Kremlin Conspiracy. For fans of Clancy, Thor, Greaney and Flynn you MUST READ ROSENBERG! And not just this series, but all of his works. Start with The Last Jihad - still one of the best thrillers ever written.
This new series is right up there with the Last Jihad series. Do yourself a favor and not only purchase this book but purchase The Last Jihad as well. If you enjoy the authors I mentioned above you will be pleasantly surprises - nah, you will be jumping foe joy that you listened to this review and bought the books.
Great follow-up to the first book in the series, The Kremlin Conspiracy. For fans of Clancy, Thor, Greaney and Flynn you MUST READ ROSENBERG! And not just this series, but all of his works. Start with The Last Jihad - still one of the best thrillers ever written.
This new series is right up there with the Last Jihad series. Do yourself a favor and not only purchase this book but purchase The Last Jihad as well. If you enjoy the authors I mentioned above you will be pleasantly surprises - nah, you will be jumping foe joy that you listened to this review and bought the books.
February 6, 2020
Started off in a confusing fashion going over the last portion of book one but in a different manner. Had me wondering if I had picked up the wrong book. It took a long time before I realized it was just a different slant of what went on. I was able toskim a little. I mean-why rehash what was already known.
There also seemed to be a bit of catholicism thrown it frequently for the last 40% of the book. Not something that I would see normally from a "hero", Well, I think I'll move on from Rosenberg's books for a while.
There also seemed to be a bit of catholicism thrown it frequently for the last 40% of the book. Not something that I would see normally from a "hero", Well, I think I'll move on from Rosenberg's books for a while.
July 27, 2020
Wow, a very interesting look at how the Iran nuclear payment the US made could easily be circumventing to buying nuclear power since the agreement only prevented them from enriching their own uranium. Lots of interesting twists and insight into how countries work, and what we all are kept in the dark about.
A work of fiction, but my gut says it is closer to the truth than we might wish to know.
A work of fiction, but my gut says it is closer to the truth than we might wish to know.
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