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The Trusted Thriller Series
The Trusted
He s a husband, a killer, and the only man who can save the world Sam Noor keeps his double lives separate with expert precision. But when the MI6 agent s wife discovers the lie, he fears that both his worlds may shatter. Distraught and conflicted, Noor concentrates on his latest mission and discovers a weapon that could cause a global catastrophe Drawn into the fight against a sinister terrorist group with powerful connections, Noor must uncover the faction s secrets by any means necessary even if it puts the woman he loves in the line of fire. But Noor has no way of knowing that another unearthly war rages. And the winner could take charge of humanity s very soul. Against forces that defy his reality, can Noor protect millions of innocents from a bloody end? The Trusted is part one of a riveting political spy thriller series with a dash of sci-fi suspense. If you like dark action, gritty heroes, and intricately woven plots, then you ll love this mind-blowing series.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published April 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 29, 2019
Well what a ride this book is; the author calls it “a high-octane spy story”. I feel it is a no holds barred thriller pushing the boundaries of science and technology. To the point where advancement in gadgets and gizmos overtake the narrative. We all love it, Q in James Bond is always pushing that envelope. This though is 007 on acid and aliens thrown in for good measure to challenge almost all the laws of nature.
So we have Nano technology, Quantum compounds and energies, new drugs which are mind altering realities to place one’s fears into an imagined Room 101 and did I mention the aliens.
Being book one of a trilogy the ground work is needed to set the scene of good v evil and who’s side are the aliens on - bets still being taken. This is done a little clumsily at times and outside a linear time line. Did I mention that the aliens appear outside of time so they at least could follow along more easily.
However, despite the convoluted background stories it does all appear to come together.
It is about a MI6 operative whose wife thinks he’s a career diplomat rather than a high-tech killer. With deeply infiltrated double agents, disloyal civil servants and a President controlled by alien technology or just a bad speech writer we lament for world peace and civilisation. Especially when in the high stakes game of terrorist poker and world domination the baddies have all the high cards.
The president then pulls an ace from the pack and suddenly he feels his rise to power will make him the natural leader of the world. A mad president perhaps isn’t the hardest thing to believe in this expansive and futuristic novel set in our own timeframe . But that he can’t keep his party piece in his trousers makes the fiction seem almost believable.
Great writing, fun with serious implications regarding love and loyalty. Human values and black ops. Atrocities; condoned and allowed by government for a greater good but a sheepishness to torture and abuse human rights.
Set up well for further instalments, a series with an intent. Guess the author has included subliminal messages to read book 2 since it is at times both incredulous and all consuming.
Not a novel I’d be instinctively drawn to but the author’s passion and pursuit of this project overtakes the will and carries you with her for good or ill.
So we have Nano technology, Quantum compounds and energies, new drugs which are mind altering realities to place one’s fears into an imagined Room 101 and did I mention the aliens.
Being book one of a trilogy the ground work is needed to set the scene of good v evil and who’s side are the aliens on - bets still being taken. This is done a little clumsily at times and outside a linear time line. Did I mention that the aliens appear outside of time so they at least could follow along more easily.
However, despite the convoluted background stories it does all appear to come together.
It is about a MI6 operative whose wife thinks he’s a career diplomat rather than a high-tech killer. With deeply infiltrated double agents, disloyal civil servants and a President controlled by alien technology or just a bad speech writer we lament for world peace and civilisation. Especially when in the high stakes game of terrorist poker and world domination the baddies have all the high cards.
The president then pulls an ace from the pack and suddenly he feels his rise to power will make him the natural leader of the world. A mad president perhaps isn’t the hardest thing to believe in this expansive and futuristic novel set in our own timeframe . But that he can’t keep his party piece in his trousers makes the fiction seem almost believable.
Great writing, fun with serious implications regarding love and loyalty. Human values and black ops. Atrocities; condoned and allowed by government for a greater good but a sheepishness to torture and abuse human rights.
Set up well for further instalments, a series with an intent. Guess the author has included subliminal messages to read book 2 since it is at times both incredulous and all consuming.
Not a novel I’d be instinctively drawn to but the author’s passion and pursuit of this project overtakes the will and carries you with her for good or ill.
April 19, 2019
I was drawn to this book by both the cover and the first line of the blurb. “He's a husband, a killer, and the only man who can save the world…” I’d read earlier short stories by author Michelle Medhat and liked her writing style. “The Trusted” is unlike anything else I’d read by Medhat. A brilliant combination of terrorism, spies, and the supernatural, the story takes off and pulls the reader along, hungry for more.
Dr. Sam Noor is a British agent working with MI6, he leads something of a double life. Sam’s wife Ellie has no idea her husband is a trained spy and killer; she believes he works for the Foreign Office. Ellie Noor is an accomplished businesswoman, intelligent and focused. Together they are an indomitable force. But, due to their intense work requirements, they didn’t have as much time together as they both wanted. Each is dedicated to their jobs.
The other couple is the extremely attractive Dr. Salim Al Douri and Dr. Sabena Sanantoni. Al Douri is the leader of a terrorist organization, Al-Nadir, bent on world domination and Sabena is both his partner/second in command and his lover. Al Douri has factions spread throughout the world, eager to do his bidding. Those who resisted or disobeyed would feel the wrath of the beautiful and deadly Sabena.
At first glance, this seems to be a spy novel. Then Medhat introduces characters and a setting that takes the story in a whole new direction. Kudamun exists in another place; neither a planet nor a star, it is like another dimension, ostensibly led by Aby-od, and the Elders of the High Council. Envious and desiring recognition and control, Aswa-da is a secret challenge to the Balance.
Drawing all the threads together Medhat creates a story that is compelling and rife with action and sex. Rather like a James Bond story with science fiction and supernatural overtones, The Trusted is a roller coaster ride of government corruption, greed, true love, and resolution. Brilliantly researched and well written, Medhat obviously put a lot of time and energy into the telling of the tale.
Pitting world leaders, the U.S. President, and the UK Prime Minister, against an organization so widespread and insidious presents a challenge. But when the ‘good guys’ have their own evil sides, the playing field becomes more unbalanced and leans toward the destructive world of darkness.
Baring the hidden agendas of those who oppose Al Nadir and their goal of world domination, Medhat paints a picture of government corruption that resonates with today’s political scene. Along with the growing threat of bloodthirsty groups who threaten the safety of the world, Medhat touches a nerve.
Adding the positive supernatural force that has its own plans for earth, a group within that inner circle of Elders has a shadowy figure who seeks to undermine earth, upsetting the tenuous balance the Elders struggle to maintain, Medhat has woven a tale that spans genres without losing the flavor of any.
This is a book for readers who can appreciate action, subterfuge, spies, high tech weapons, and detailed insight into the machinations of government’s undercover activities. Approach it with an open mind and you may come away with a new view of world politics and what motivates those in power.
Dr. Sam Noor is a British agent working with MI6, he leads something of a double life. Sam’s wife Ellie has no idea her husband is a trained spy and killer; she believes he works for the Foreign Office. Ellie Noor is an accomplished businesswoman, intelligent and focused. Together they are an indomitable force. But, due to their intense work requirements, they didn’t have as much time together as they both wanted. Each is dedicated to their jobs.
The other couple is the extremely attractive Dr. Salim Al Douri and Dr. Sabena Sanantoni. Al Douri is the leader of a terrorist organization, Al-Nadir, bent on world domination and Sabena is both his partner/second in command and his lover. Al Douri has factions spread throughout the world, eager to do his bidding. Those who resisted or disobeyed would feel the wrath of the beautiful and deadly Sabena.
At first glance, this seems to be a spy novel. Then Medhat introduces characters and a setting that takes the story in a whole new direction. Kudamun exists in another place; neither a planet nor a star, it is like another dimension, ostensibly led by Aby-od, and the Elders of the High Council. Envious and desiring recognition and control, Aswa-da is a secret challenge to the Balance.
Drawing all the threads together Medhat creates a story that is compelling and rife with action and sex. Rather like a James Bond story with science fiction and supernatural overtones, The Trusted is a roller coaster ride of government corruption, greed, true love, and resolution. Brilliantly researched and well written, Medhat obviously put a lot of time and energy into the telling of the tale.
Pitting world leaders, the U.S. President, and the UK Prime Minister, against an organization so widespread and insidious presents a challenge. But when the ‘good guys’ have their own evil sides, the playing field becomes more unbalanced and leans toward the destructive world of darkness.
Baring the hidden agendas of those who oppose Al Nadir and their goal of world domination, Medhat paints a picture of government corruption that resonates with today’s political scene. Along with the growing threat of bloodthirsty groups who threaten the safety of the world, Medhat touches a nerve.
Adding the positive supernatural force that has its own plans for earth, a group within that inner circle of Elders has a shadowy figure who seeks to undermine earth, upsetting the tenuous balance the Elders struggle to maintain, Medhat has woven a tale that spans genres without losing the flavor of any.
This is a book for readers who can appreciate action, subterfuge, spies, high tech weapons, and detailed insight into the machinations of government’s undercover activities. Approach it with an open mind and you may come away with a new view of world politics and what motivates those in power.
August 7, 2019
Thank you Netgalley for giving me a chance to read and review this book.
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down.
I was drawn to this book by the cover and the blurb.
What really made me fall in love with this book was the fact that it made you question what you really know about a person.
I went through every single emotion with this book.
I highly recommend it!
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down.
I was drawn to this book by the cover and the blurb.
What really made me fall in love with this book was the fact that it made you question what you really know about a person.
I went through every single emotion with this book.
I highly recommend it!
June 8, 2020
Wow, I can truly say I didn't see that coming! Tbh I've had my eye on this book for a while but, as I don't like sci-fi I did my best to avoid it. Huge mistake. Can I just say that Michelle is an excellent author and this book was an explosive read from the outset.
What to expect from a book with a sub-headline of He's a husband, a killer and the only man who can save the world... this is a fantastic mix of spies, terrorism and a little supernatural. It has MI6 and CIA subplots thrown into the mix as well. Altogether a humdinger of a read that kept me flipping the pages to its amazing conclusion.
The main character Dr. Sam Noor leads a double life, even his wife is in the dark about that. Ellie was a great character, an intelligent businesswoman for a change rather than a stop at home mum, which I really enjoyed. They make a fantastic team, when they finally get to spend time together.
Enter the other, ruthless characters in this amazing plot line, members of a terrorist organisation seeking world domination. Deadly and determined a powerful combination.
Halfway through the book it steers off in a different direction and takes on another dimension, that's all I'm prepared to say about that though...spoilers. :-)
In all, a compelling James Bond type novel that was exceptionally hard to put down and left me breathless at times and crossing into many genres.
A great read, looking forward to reading more in the series when my busy schedule allows.
What to expect from a book with a sub-headline of He's a husband, a killer and the only man who can save the world... this is a fantastic mix of spies, terrorism and a little supernatural. It has MI6 and CIA subplots thrown into the mix as well. Altogether a humdinger of a read that kept me flipping the pages to its amazing conclusion.
The main character Dr. Sam Noor leads a double life, even his wife is in the dark about that. Ellie was a great character, an intelligent businesswoman for a change rather than a stop at home mum, which I really enjoyed. They make a fantastic team, when they finally get to spend time together.
Enter the other, ruthless characters in this amazing plot line, members of a terrorist organisation seeking world domination. Deadly and determined a powerful combination.
Halfway through the book it steers off in a different direction and takes on another dimension, that's all I'm prepared to say about that though...spoilers. :-)
In all, a compelling James Bond type novel that was exceptionally hard to put down and left me breathless at times and crossing into many genres.
A great read, looking forward to reading more in the series when my busy schedule allows.
September 30, 2019
Over the decades, the genre of spy fiction has shown considerable range. From the sober thrillers of John le Carre and Frederick Forsyth to Ian Fleming's James Bond, the secret world has proven ripe for all sorts of interpretations. There's also a sub-genre of it that pushes the boundaries of science, technology, and even genre: spy-fi. Though it arguably had its heyday in the 1960s, spy-fi seems to be making something of a comeback. One such example is The Trusted, the opening salvo in a series of thrillers from Michelle Medhat.
Medhat's novel has all the makings of a modern spy thriller. There's Sam Noor, an MI6 agent posing as a diplomat, and his wife Ellie who discovers the truth about his life. There's Al Nadir, a terrorist organization with a worldwide reach across languages and cultures and its mysterious leader. There's also a brash American President, one keen to find an upper hand against his foes. Off the bat already, The Trusted has all the ingredients of a solid post-9/11 thriller.
It's what Medhat does with those elements that make the book intriguing. Setting it a slightly alternative version of our world allows her to play around with technothriller elements. Namely, the emerging world of nanotechnology and its use by terrorists. More than that, the novel (and presumably the series at large) asks a troubling question: what if some tech billionaire dedicated all their time and resources towards being a real-life James Bond villain? How would intelligence agencies and governments cope with such devices and people? Plus, even more, to Medhat's credit, she manages to make the threats posed plausible despite how outlandish they might seem on the surface.
Which brings us to the "fi" element in "spy-fi." As much of spy tale and technothriller as The Trusted is, more than just the use of nanotechnology and other items from the proverbial five minutes in the future push the book towards that end of the genre's spectrum. Without offering spoilers, there's a reoccurring element in the novel which seems, at first, weirdly detached from proceedings. That is until very close to the end of the book when it clicks together with a nice "aha" moment. Like with the technothriller elements mentioned above, it's to the author's credit that it works as well as it does. Indeed, one presumes it'll come more into play with the second volume in the series.
The Trusted does have a few issues, though. The narrative is rather all over the place, bouncing around between different countries and in time. One side-effect of that is the introduction of a rather important subplot at the start of the novel which doesn't get picked up again until nearly the very end, by which time the reader may well be going back to remember what happened there. While the pacing is solid, the chapters short and ever-moving, with how much is going on it is easy to get lost in places. There's the occasional bit of clunky dialogue, and the exposition can get heavy in places too with there being a sudden need to inform the reader of things the characters already know. For the most part, readers can go along for the ride.
At the end of the day, despite a few issues, The Trusted would seem to be a solid launch for Medhat's thriller series. It's an intriguing mix of elements into a 21st-century spy-fi package that has plenty to offer for readers who can keep up with the pace of both action and information. With two more books already out, now would seem an opportune time to dive in and experience it for yourself. You might be surprised by what you find.
(I received a free ebook of The Trusted in return for an honest review.)
Medhat's novel has all the makings of a modern spy thriller. There's Sam Noor, an MI6 agent posing as a diplomat, and his wife Ellie who discovers the truth about his life. There's Al Nadir, a terrorist organization with a worldwide reach across languages and cultures and its mysterious leader. There's also a brash American President, one keen to find an upper hand against his foes. Off the bat already, The Trusted has all the ingredients of a solid post-9/11 thriller.
It's what Medhat does with those elements that make the book intriguing. Setting it a slightly alternative version of our world allows her to play around with technothriller elements. Namely, the emerging world of nanotechnology and its use by terrorists. More than that, the novel (and presumably the series at large) asks a troubling question: what if some tech billionaire dedicated all their time and resources towards being a real-life James Bond villain? How would intelligence agencies and governments cope with such devices and people? Plus, even more, to Medhat's credit, she manages to make the threats posed plausible despite how outlandish they might seem on the surface.
Which brings us to the "fi" element in "spy-fi." As much of spy tale and technothriller as The Trusted is, more than just the use of nanotechnology and other items from the proverbial five minutes in the future push the book towards that end of the genre's spectrum. Without offering spoilers, there's a reoccurring element in the novel which seems, at first, weirdly detached from proceedings. That is until very close to the end of the book when it clicks together with a nice "aha" moment. Like with the technothriller elements mentioned above, it's to the author's credit that it works as well as it does. Indeed, one presumes it'll come more into play with the second volume in the series.
The Trusted does have a few issues, though. The narrative is rather all over the place, bouncing around between different countries and in time. One side-effect of that is the introduction of a rather important subplot at the start of the novel which doesn't get picked up again until nearly the very end, by which time the reader may well be going back to remember what happened there. While the pacing is solid, the chapters short and ever-moving, with how much is going on it is easy to get lost in places. There's the occasional bit of clunky dialogue, and the exposition can get heavy in places too with there being a sudden need to inform the reader of things the characters already know. For the most part, readers can go along for the ride.
At the end of the day, despite a few issues, The Trusted would seem to be a solid launch for Medhat's thriller series. It's an intriguing mix of elements into a 21st-century spy-fi package that has plenty to offer for readers who can keep up with the pace of both action and information. With two more books already out, now would seem an opportune time to dive in and experience it for yourself. You might be surprised by what you find.
(I received a free ebook of The Trusted in return for an honest review.)
February 27, 2021
Time taken to read - 1 day
Pages - 293
Publisher - Mindblowing books ltd
Source - Review copy
Blurb from the back cover
Sam Noor keeps his double lives seperate with expert precision. But whe the MI6 agent's wife discovers the life, he fears that both his worlds may shatter. Distraught and conflicted, Noor concentrates on his latest mission and discovers a weapon that could cause a global catastrophe..
Drawn into the fight against a sinister terrorist group with powerful connections, Noor must uncover the faction's secrets by any means necessary. Even if it puts the woman he lives in the line of fire.
But Noor has no way of knowing a supernatural war rages within his nation. And the winner could take charge of humanity's very soul.
Against forces that defy his reality, can Noor protect millions of innocents from a bloody end?
My Review
Ellie and Sam are very much in love, despite being married for many years, Ellie is looking forward to spending time with Sam. When Sam's job spills over into his personal life the gig is up - Sam is MI6 Ellie can't believe everything about their life is a lie. Whilst Sam tries to juggle his personal life things are work are becoming tense. The biggest terrorist group in the world is becoming more dangerous, the government are struggling to keep up and there may be other things at work than the humans anticipated.
Think James Bond with echoes of Marvel with a pinch of X files. We have nanotechnology, super smart terrorists, secret agents, relationships, friendships, missions and extraterrestrial God like beings outside our universe.
It is a page turner - I had no idea where the plot was going and really wanted to know. An action packed book despite being under 300 pages, oodles of geekery which will will delight many readers. Certainly different from any books I have read in a while. Whilst it will appeal to sci-fi/fantasy lovers I think it will also appeal to fans of spy/thrillers because it covers so much ground, 3.5/5 for me this time. Book one of a series - I look forward to seeing where the story goes and what is next for the characters!
Pages - 293
Publisher - Mindblowing books ltd
Source - Review copy
Blurb from the back cover
Sam Noor keeps his double lives seperate with expert precision. But whe the MI6 agent's wife discovers the life, he fears that both his worlds may shatter. Distraught and conflicted, Noor concentrates on his latest mission and discovers a weapon that could cause a global catastrophe..
Drawn into the fight against a sinister terrorist group with powerful connections, Noor must uncover the faction's secrets by any means necessary. Even if it puts the woman he lives in the line of fire.
But Noor has no way of knowing a supernatural war rages within his nation. And the winner could take charge of humanity's very soul.
Against forces that defy his reality, can Noor protect millions of innocents from a bloody end?
My Review
Ellie and Sam are very much in love, despite being married for many years, Ellie is looking forward to spending time with Sam. When Sam's job spills over into his personal life the gig is up - Sam is MI6 Ellie can't believe everything about their life is a lie. Whilst Sam tries to juggle his personal life things are work are becoming tense. The biggest terrorist group in the world is becoming more dangerous, the government are struggling to keep up and there may be other things at work than the humans anticipated.
Think James Bond with echoes of Marvel with a pinch of X files. We have nanotechnology, super smart terrorists, secret agents, relationships, friendships, missions and extraterrestrial God like beings outside our universe.
It is a page turner - I had no idea where the plot was going and really wanted to know. An action packed book despite being under 300 pages, oodles of geekery which will will delight many readers. Certainly different from any books I have read in a while. Whilst it will appeal to sci-fi/fantasy lovers I think it will also appeal to fans of spy/thrillers because it covers so much ground, 3.5/5 for me this time. Book one of a series - I look forward to seeing where the story goes and what is next for the characters!
March 22, 2021
"It was often remarked, amongst the intelligence elite, that if there was a temple built to NMS, agents around the world would probably make a pilgrimage there to pray."
Al Nadir, a most unique terrorist organization, is taking over the world. Run by Salim Al Nouri, an EX-CIA agent, they are rapidly coopting intelligence agencies, global corporations and even military operations.
Backed by high tech and biotechnology weapons, Al Nadir is wresting control of the world's population out from under noses of democracies, monarchies and virtually the entire ruling classes.
However, stranger things are afloat. An entity from another dimension is manipulating the key players on many sides. A war between Dark and Light is being fought behind the scenes.
As The Trusted ends, "the balance has shifted" and no one knows what the outcome will be. A gripping story, highly addictive and well written.
Al Nadir, a most unique terrorist organization, is taking over the world. Run by Salim Al Nouri, an EX-CIA agent, they are rapidly coopting intelligence agencies, global corporations and even military operations.
Backed by high tech and biotechnology weapons, Al Nadir is wresting control of the world's population out from under noses of democracies, monarchies and virtually the entire ruling classes.
However, stranger things are afloat. An entity from another dimension is manipulating the key players on many sides. A war between Dark and Light is being fought behind the scenes.
As The Trusted ends, "the balance has shifted" and no one knows what the outcome will be. A gripping story, highly addictive and well written.
May 14, 2019
This was an amazing book. It's crazy how you think you know someone and find out they are not who you think. This was a book I couldnt put down. My heart was raising, I laugh ,I cried. Cant wait to read the next book.
September 11, 2021
The Trusted by Michelle Medhat is the first book in a five book series. A cross genre book that incorporates spy thriller with brilliant elements of sci-fi and fantasy too at times. The story hits the ground running and we are thrown into the action from the first page. We meet MI-6 agent Sam Noor who has been living a lie for many years, leaving his wife Ellie in the dark about his real occupation. This brings difficulties on it's own that Sam has to deal with while fighting a part of the fight against a new terror organisation that is a threat to the whole world.They are using brand new technology to threaten the world!
I think the world building is excellent and Michelle has created truly individual strong characters that stay with you long after you have finished the book. A story that had my adrenaline rushing all the way through, with enough action for three books never mind just the one! I was hooked from the first page. I found that the fantasy plane that Michelle Medhat has incorperated into the story, gives it a unique angle which I find so interesting. It is a story that goes at breakneck speed but it carries you along with it so you really are flipping the pages to find out what jiggery pokery will happen next! I am sure I lost a day while reading this!
The way The Trusted ends I found that I had to read the next book almost immediately to discover what would happen to Sam and Ellie and the rest of the varied and sometimes very colourful or even dubious characters in the story. I think the partnership of Sam and Ellie and the totally true love they share shines through and I was really rooting for them throughout.
This book has opened up a series I seriously need to read to find out what happens...to Sam and Ellie and even to the world. Will light manage to overcome the darkness or will the darkness win? If you enjoy a story that keeps you on your toes and never stops with action and drama give The Trusted a go! It won't disappoint!
Thank you to Michelle and NetGalley for my copy of the book today.
Discover the series at: https://forever-connected.com
I think the world building is excellent and Michelle has created truly individual strong characters that stay with you long after you have finished the book. A story that had my adrenaline rushing all the way through, with enough action for three books never mind just the one! I was hooked from the first page. I found that the fantasy plane that Michelle Medhat has incorperated into the story, gives it a unique angle which I find so interesting. It is a story that goes at breakneck speed but it carries you along with it so you really are flipping the pages to find out what jiggery pokery will happen next! I am sure I lost a day while reading this!
The way The Trusted ends I found that I had to read the next book almost immediately to discover what would happen to Sam and Ellie and the rest of the varied and sometimes very colourful or even dubious characters in the story. I think the partnership of Sam and Ellie and the totally true love they share shines through and I was really rooting for them throughout.
This book has opened up a series I seriously need to read to find out what happens...to Sam and Ellie and even to the world. Will light manage to overcome the darkness or will the darkness win? If you enjoy a story that keeps you on your toes and never stops with action and drama give The Trusted a go! It won't disappoint!
Thank you to Michelle and NetGalley for my copy of the book today.
Discover the series at: https://forever-connected.com
September 7, 2023
A crazy thrill ride, action packed, with spies,terrorism, double agents, amazing futuristic technology, nanotechnology, and a hint of the supernatural.
Sam Noor has been lying to his wife Ellie about his job for years, but circumstances combine to lead him to reveal his secret life. Ellie is clearly angry at being lied to but events happen at such a fast pace that she doesn't have time to angry for too long, at Sam anyway!
I liked Sam throughout. He isn't arrogant despite being clearly much smarter than most people and it really effects him lying to the wife he clearly loves.
Michelle has created something really wonderful in just book 1, a completely unique and brilliant universe for the story to take place within.
It's hard to really define, it's being defined as thriller and sci-fi, but I'd argue its speculative, as it feels as time goes on, the technology featured isn't too far away.
I couldn't put this down and couldn't wait to start on book 2.
It's rare I give the first book in a series 5 stars but this deserves more than that!
Sam Noor has been lying to his wife Ellie about his job for years, but circumstances combine to lead him to reveal his secret life. Ellie is clearly angry at being lied to but events happen at such a fast pace that she doesn't have time to angry for too long, at Sam anyway!
I liked Sam throughout. He isn't arrogant despite being clearly much smarter than most people and it really effects him lying to the wife he clearly loves.
Michelle has created something really wonderful in just book 1, a completely unique and brilliant universe for the story to take place within.
It's hard to really define, it's being defined as thriller and sci-fi, but I'd argue its speculative, as it feels as time goes on, the technology featured isn't too far away.
I couldn't put this down and couldn't wait to start on book 2.
It's rare I give the first book in a series 5 stars but this deserves more than that!
March 17, 2021
If there’s one thing I like doing it’s discovering new authors and Michelle Medhat is certainly a new author for me. I read the synopsis for ‘The Trusted’ and it certainly sounded like the thrilling sort of action book that I particularly enjoy. ‘The Trusted’ is the first book in a five book series. I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my book and settled down for what I hoped would be an entertaining read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Trusted’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me a little while to get into this story, which had more to do with the fact that I was finding it hard to concentrate than anything else. After the first few pages and once I had got to grips with who was who and what was what, I was away. I found it increasingly difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I think I feared missing out on some action or on some vital clue. I would pick the book up only intending to read a few pages or chapters but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would read for far longer than I had originally intended. I lost track of time and just how quickly I was getting through ‘The Trusted’. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘The Trusted’, which I was a little sad about but I soon cheered up when I realised that I had another four books in the series to catch up on.
‘The Trusted’ is extremely well written. The author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. Michelle grabbed my attention from the start and drew me into what proved to be a compelling story. I liked the way in which this was a spy novel with a difference in that there was a supernatural element to the story and a bit of science fiction along the way. For me the story started with a bang and then maintained a fairly fast pace throughout. Reading this book felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Just when you thought that you could take a breather and gather your thoughts then off the action would go again. I found ‘The Trusted’ to be a gripping read, which certainly kept me guessing.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘The Trusted’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Michelle’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 4* out of 5*.
It took me a little while to get into this story, which had more to do with the fact that I was finding it hard to concentrate than anything else. After the first few pages and once I had got to grips with who was who and what was what, I was away. I found it increasingly difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I think I feared missing out on some action or on some vital clue. I would pick the book up only intending to read a few pages or chapters but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would read for far longer than I had originally intended. I lost track of time and just how quickly I was getting through ‘The Trusted’. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘The Trusted’, which I was a little sad about but I soon cheered up when I realised that I had another four books in the series to catch up on.
‘The Trusted’ is extremely well written. The author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. Michelle grabbed my attention from the start and drew me into what proved to be a compelling story. I liked the way in which this was a spy novel with a difference in that there was a supernatural element to the story and a bit of science fiction along the way. For me the story started with a bang and then maintained a fairly fast pace throughout. Reading this book felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Just when you thought that you could take a breather and gather your thoughts then off the action would go again. I found ‘The Trusted’ to be a gripping read, which certainly kept me guessing.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘The Trusted’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Michelle’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 4* out of 5*.
May 22, 2019
3.5 Stars
There is a lot going on in this book. Lots of characters. It is convoluted and you will definitely need a score card to keep up. While reading, I thought it was a political thriller then got to Chapter 17 and … there were aliens! I was shocked to say the least. It just felt out of place in this book. But it does work, although weirdly so.
It was hard to know who was the star in this story. There were so many points of view that I thought it was over kill. I think just staying in Sam’s POV would have been enough.
Something happened to Ellie, Sam’s wife, near the start that I never quite grasped even at the end. Plus, there were people kidnapped and tortured at the beginning but didn’t know who Al Nadir was trying to manipulate by this action. Happily it finally came around in the end the answer to my question but long after I ceased to care about the tortured family.
If you are looking for a resolution of any sort at this end of this book prepare to be disappointed. This is just a gigantic cliffhanger waiting to happen. It is the first book in an ongoing saga. Not happy about that. I like some payoff after reading nearly 300 pages.
Not sure I am invested enough to continue into book 2. But we’ll see.
(This looks like it might be a re-release of Medhat's earlier books Connected: The Call and Connected: The Shift)
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
There is a lot going on in this book. Lots of characters. It is convoluted and you will definitely need a score card to keep up. While reading, I thought it was a political thriller then got to Chapter 17 and … there were aliens! I was shocked to say the least. It just felt out of place in this book. But it does work, although weirdly so.
It was hard to know who was the star in this story. There were so many points of view that I thought it was over kill. I think just staying in Sam’s POV would have been enough.
Something happened to Ellie, Sam’s wife, near the start that I never quite grasped even at the end. Plus, there were people kidnapped and tortured at the beginning but didn’t know who Al Nadir was trying to manipulate by this action. Happily it finally came around in the end the answer to my question but long after I ceased to care about the tortured family.
If you are looking for a resolution of any sort at this end of this book prepare to be disappointed. This is just a gigantic cliffhanger waiting to happen. It is the first book in an ongoing saga. Not happy about that. I like some payoff after reading nearly 300 pages.
Not sure I am invested enough to continue into book 2. But we’ll see.
(This looks like it might be a re-release of Medhat's earlier books Connected: The Call and Connected: The Shift)
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
September 11, 2019
This book was different than my usual thriller reads, because it had a bit of sci fi added in. A being views and controls a boy through his development and into adulthood, where he becomes President of the United States. Sam is an agent for MI6, determined to take down a global terrorist organization, which we get a peek into throughout the book. For me, the book was too fragmented, with the antagonist being too one-dimensional. The biggest reason this was not a higher rating, however, was the ending. The book literally ended in the middle of the story. A series can have an overarching storyline, but each individual book (IMHO) should have its own story arc. This book does not. There is no conclusion, no climax, no ending. If you wish to read this book, I recommend buying the series all at once, with a plan to read through instead of book by book.
May 21, 2019
So intrigued
I have no words to say about this book and story because it combines perfectly so many great things that I’m looking forward in my books.
I enjoyed this story about power play over the world and love and lost and everything else that’s in between.
The love between our hero and his wife has no limits and even if his profession is one of the most dangerous in the world, he’s there for her at every possible moment.
Trying to save the world from a terrorism group and even from a unknown organisation with unrealistic resources and mass destruction weapons, our MI6 agent goes through a lot in this gripping thriller that kept me on the edge at all times.
Can’t wait to read the next books and discover more intrigues and speechless situations that will keep me awake all night.
I have no words to say about this book and story because it combines perfectly so many great things that I’m looking forward in my books.
I enjoyed this story about power play over the world and love and lost and everything else that’s in between.
The love between our hero and his wife has no limits and even if his profession is one of the most dangerous in the world, he’s there for her at every possible moment.
Trying to save the world from a terrorism group and even from a unknown organisation with unrealistic resources and mass destruction weapons, our MI6 agent goes through a lot in this gripping thriller that kept me on the edge at all times.
Can’t wait to read the next books and discover more intrigues and speechless situations that will keep me awake all night.
March 17, 2021
Reading this novel, I was wondering about my knowledge of technology, metaphysics, and math. Michelle explained this well in a fiction story, where spy Sam tries to save the world from the terroristic organization Al Nadir. His wife Ellie did not know anything about his secret job, so he will try to protect her too. The story is well organized, precise, and simplified to those who don't read these genres, so I was swimming in these waters, learning about new things. I liked Sam, cold-blooded, yet gentleman, and Ellie who is independent but emotional. Struggling with his authorities, Sam wishes to do his best, that is not always possible. Egoistic Al Nadir will use children in their purpose, victims will fall, and the story looks neverending. 5 stars for a story that could be a movie.
April 28, 2021
I loved the premise for this one but I think it was just too much shoved together into one book. Too many characters (you need a notebook to keep track). Too many genres, I think, to keep it cohesive (it went from espionage to thriller to sci-fi to alien).
There was so much going on at once it was hard to stay invested. A lot of changes mid-scenario that made the flow of this one too choppy. I won't be finishing off this series.
There was so much going on at once it was hard to stay invested. A lot of changes mid-scenario that made the flow of this one too choppy. I won't be finishing off this series.
May 20, 2019
Never read anything by this author.............So when this book become available I requested it.
The Trusted by Michelle Medhat is the first book in this new series and I loved it. It's full of twists and turns that will have you hooked from the very first few pages.
Highly recommend this new book by Michelle Medhat
Big Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for letting me review this new book in this series for an honest review.
The Trusted by Michelle Medhat is the first book in this new series and I loved it. It's full of twists and turns that will have you hooked from the very first few pages.
Highly recommend this new book by Michelle Medhat
Big Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for letting me review this new book in this series for an honest review.
May 20, 2019
This is my first book by this author, but it won't be my last. I really enjoyed the story and The characters. I also loved that it alternated points of view.
This is the first in a series, and I will be getting the sequels.
Thanks net galley for an advanced copy
This is the first in a series, and I will be getting the sequels.
Thanks net galley for an advanced copy
July 21, 2019
"He's a husband, a killer, and the only man who can save the world…"
When I see this sentence at the blurb and knowing he is an agent, I thought I will read the story about a man who will try to save people from bad men. Actually, I did watch a lot of movies about this kind of heroes and enjoyed watching them. But after reading the blurb I realize I didn't read a book about this kind of stories so I wanted to give a try to read this book.
The story was almost the way I expected it to be. It was full of action/adventure. But the way it is told was different what was I expected. Michelle Medhat tells the story a different way, not just the point of view of our hero but almost every important characters' point of views. I liked the way the story was told and how things developed. Another surprising thing was how aliens involved in the story and what more surprising was I didn't find it too strange to accept and actually find it interesting. So this was one of the things make this story more original usually we don't have supernatural things in this kind of stories.
I found all the characters interesting and liked to learn more about them. But I can't say I loved any of them. I wasn't charmed by the characters so wasn't worried for them but I go on reading because I like the story and was curious what will happen next. When I read series I would like them to have ending partially for some of the characters or learn some of the things I'm curious. But for this book (the first book in the series) that didn't happen. And the ending without answering most of my questions and I feel I don't know enough characters' stories. Because of that, I think the ending come early and wasn't fulfilling. But I enjoyed reading this story and I want to learn how will thing develope so I will go on reading other books in this series when they come out.
Thanks to NetGalley and the BooksGoSocial Publishing Group providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review and making this available!
When I see this sentence at the blurb and knowing he is an agent, I thought I will read the story about a man who will try to save people from bad men. Actually, I did watch a lot of movies about this kind of heroes and enjoyed watching them. But after reading the blurb I realize I didn't read a book about this kind of stories so I wanted to give a try to read this book.
The story was almost the way I expected it to be. It was full of action/adventure. But the way it is told was different what was I expected. Michelle Medhat tells the story a different way, not just the point of view of our hero but almost every important characters' point of views. I liked the way the story was told and how things developed. Another surprising thing was how aliens involved in the story and what more surprising was I didn't find it too strange to accept and actually find it interesting. So this was one of the things make this story more original usually we don't have supernatural things in this kind of stories.
I found all the characters interesting and liked to learn more about them. But I can't say I loved any of them. I wasn't charmed by the characters so wasn't worried for them but I go on reading because I like the story and was curious what will happen next. When I read series I would like them to have ending partially for some of the characters or learn some of the things I'm curious. But for this book (the first book in the series) that didn't happen. And the ending without answering most of my questions and I feel I don't know enough characters' stories. Because of that, I think the ending come early and wasn't fulfilling. But I enjoyed reading this story and I want to learn how will thing develope so I will go on reading other books in this series when they come out.
Thanks to NetGalley and the BooksGoSocial Publishing Group providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review and making this available!
April 20, 2019
I got this as a e book for my i pad thru net galley. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. I liked the variety of characters in it. It is my first book read by this author. I hope to read more books by this author.
March 19, 2021
Dr Sam Noor is a British agent working for MI6. He leads a double life as his wife, Ellie has no idea that he is an agent. That all changes one night and Sam doesn’t know if his world will now implode on him.
He is involved in trying to bring down Dr Salim Al Douri, leader of a terrorist organisation called Al-Nadir. Each time Sam and governments all over the world think they are ahead, they are soon thwarted. How is Salim finding out so much information? Are there leaks & where are they coming from?
This has been a fantastic start to a series. The author has managed to keep the book fast paced, tense and gripping. There are a lot of technical terms in the book that are all explained in easy layman’s terms. This is a story of good versus bad and espionage. If you want to be taken on a ride through an intense thriller then I would recommend this book to you. I am looking forward to reading the second in the series, The Dominant.
He is involved in trying to bring down Dr Salim Al Douri, leader of a terrorist organisation called Al-Nadir. Each time Sam and governments all over the world think they are ahead, they are soon thwarted. How is Salim finding out so much information? Are there leaks & where are they coming from?
This has been a fantastic start to a series. The author has managed to keep the book fast paced, tense and gripping. There are a lot of technical terms in the book that are all explained in easy layman’s terms. This is a story of good versus bad and espionage. If you want to be taken on a ride through an intense thriller then I would recommend this book to you. I am looking forward to reading the second in the series, The Dominant.
January 11, 2021
I this on my kindle for a while but had put it ‘down the pile’ a few times as not a fan of sci-if. What a mistake. Firstly it is much more a spy thriller with political overtones than anything else and secondly it’s a really good book
Briefly, Dr Sam Noor is an MI6 agent with previous background in nano technology. He is part of a team fighting a terrorist organisation who have a weapon that could kill millions.
This is so well written with just a nod to sci-fi. I enjoyed it and my only complaint is that there is a cliffhanger ending... You will need to read it to find out just what it is. 5* read
Briefly, Dr Sam Noor is an MI6 agent with previous background in nano technology. He is part of a team fighting a terrorist organisation who have a weapon that could kill millions.
This is so well written with just a nod to sci-fi. I enjoyed it and my only complaint is that there is a cliffhanger ending... You will need to read it to find out just what it is. 5* read
March 15, 2021
Well this is certainly something a little bit different!
His wife Ellie doesn’t sound very appealing. A reckless dangerous driver, a bit sex mad and she is demanding her husband Sam should spend more time with her although she is free to run around doing her own job whenever she feels. But for some reason he adores her and yet he has lied to her for the last 10 years. Now a panic over her safety has forced him to reveal that he is not a foreign office diplomat but actually head of counter terrorism for MI6. Mistake. What she doesn’t tell him is her panic was caused by hearing a disembodied voice in her kitchen in the middle of the night telling her the balance has shifted! Maybe lying to him was not such a good idea? Yes, another mistake. A bewildering array of strands and different characters are introduced which made it hard to keep up with everything, especially with several flashbacks into events of months or years ago until around halfway through the book when it all started to come together and make sense. Al Nadir are the ultimate terrorist group headed by Dr. Salim Al Douri and his second in command Dr. Sabena Sanantoni. Unlike other groups who are driven by a particular religion or country, Al Nadir wants total control, power and money – greed on a global basis. Despite infiltration by MI6, they are well on their way to this with the introduction of their nano bombs which can turn a man into a walking explosive and they are ruthless to say the least. The British prime minister, MI5 and MI6 will have to put their faith in Dr Sam Noor if they want to save the world. Meanwhile, in the US, one other man thinks he has the answer. Political subterfuge, explosions, kidnappings, invisibility cloaks and all manner of fancy technology make up an exciting and fast story as the battle commences to save millions of lives. And all the while events are being monitored by something or someone in another dimension.
If you embark on this book you will find yourself in for the long haul. This story has no conclusion and leads directly onto book number 2, The Dominant, which is really part 2 of the story which goes on for 5 books in total. This story finishes on a huge cliffhanger in lots of ways and I’m sure the reader will find themselves eager to know more.
Personally I didn’t care for the sci-fi part of the story as it’s not particularly “my thing” but who knew the US president was being controlled by aliens?!! 4*
His wife Ellie doesn’t sound very appealing. A reckless dangerous driver, a bit sex mad and she is demanding her husband Sam should spend more time with her although she is free to run around doing her own job whenever she feels. But for some reason he adores her and yet he has lied to her for the last 10 years. Now a panic over her safety has forced him to reveal that he is not a foreign office diplomat but actually head of counter terrorism for MI6. Mistake. What she doesn’t tell him is her panic was caused by hearing a disembodied voice in her kitchen in the middle of the night telling her the balance has shifted! Maybe lying to him was not such a good idea? Yes, another mistake. A bewildering array of strands and different characters are introduced which made it hard to keep up with everything, especially with several flashbacks into events of months or years ago until around halfway through the book when it all started to come together and make sense. Al Nadir are the ultimate terrorist group headed by Dr. Salim Al Douri and his second in command Dr. Sabena Sanantoni. Unlike other groups who are driven by a particular religion or country, Al Nadir wants total control, power and money – greed on a global basis. Despite infiltration by MI6, they are well on their way to this with the introduction of their nano bombs which can turn a man into a walking explosive and they are ruthless to say the least. The British prime minister, MI5 and MI6 will have to put their faith in Dr Sam Noor if they want to save the world. Meanwhile, in the US, one other man thinks he has the answer. Political subterfuge, explosions, kidnappings, invisibility cloaks and all manner of fancy technology make up an exciting and fast story as the battle commences to save millions of lives. And all the while events are being monitored by something or someone in another dimension.
If you embark on this book you will find yourself in for the long haul. This story has no conclusion and leads directly onto book number 2, The Dominant, which is really part 2 of the story which goes on for 5 books in total. This story finishes on a huge cliffhanger in lots of ways and I’m sure the reader will find themselves eager to know more.
Personally I didn’t care for the sci-fi part of the story as it’s not particularly “my thing” but who knew the US president was being controlled by aliens?!! 4*
March 26, 2021
A page-turner of the highest order.
Sam Noor is an MI6 agent, his wife doesn’t know. At least not to start with. His current job is breaking the biggest threat to the security of the world. There’s a new terrorist organisation in town, the worst nightmares of the worlds secret services have come true. Now all he, and his associates have to do, is stop them.
I like the premise of the story, spies fascinate us all, we think we know their world, from James Bond or Harry Palmer but the truth is, we only know what they tell us. To get the real story, you need a writer who knows their way around the system. Then you get the realism that only comes from a mixture of knowledge and deep research. You also need technology that is believable enough to be true. In that other world, the things science only hints at are a reality, and their uses can be devastating.
The characters in The Trusted are three-dimensional, real people doing an impossible job. The strain of that makes them a mixture of emotions. Calm and capable one minute, flawed and imperfect the next.
Sam, the hero, is a man torn between love and duty, others have their own motives, power, knowledge, influence, idealism or simply money. The all-important backstory is delivered as part of the action, meaning that there are no boring information dumps, the action fairly whistles along.
There’s a fair bit of graphic content, but I would say that it’s justified, it brings a visceral quality, we all know these things go on, this book suggests the reality of the struggle to keep us all safe. Nothing is off-limits, from either side.
In a way, the bad guys are as bad as they get, indeed some of the good guys might be bad guys, there are a lot of fluid alliances and shifting perspectives. You never know who will be alive at the end of the chapter, yet this is no random slaughter of men in red shirts. There’s a logical progression as plots and sub-plots come to the eyes of those who see everything.
And over it all, a presence that can only be described as other-worldly. In terms of raising the stakes, it’s a real masterstroke, giving you an insight into motivations and creating another layer of mystery.
The story is a rollercoaster journey, the end of which makes you need to read the next part.
Michelle Medhat writes in a style that’s a combination of the masters, Ian Fleming, John Le Carré, Len Deighton, The Trusted is a novel that could have come from a collaboration of them all.
Sam Noor is an MI6 agent, his wife doesn’t know. At least not to start with. His current job is breaking the biggest threat to the security of the world. There’s a new terrorist organisation in town, the worst nightmares of the worlds secret services have come true. Now all he, and his associates have to do, is stop them.
I like the premise of the story, spies fascinate us all, we think we know their world, from James Bond or Harry Palmer but the truth is, we only know what they tell us. To get the real story, you need a writer who knows their way around the system. Then you get the realism that only comes from a mixture of knowledge and deep research. You also need technology that is believable enough to be true. In that other world, the things science only hints at are a reality, and their uses can be devastating.
The characters in The Trusted are three-dimensional, real people doing an impossible job. The strain of that makes them a mixture of emotions. Calm and capable one minute, flawed and imperfect the next.
Sam, the hero, is a man torn between love and duty, others have their own motives, power, knowledge, influence, idealism or simply money. The all-important backstory is delivered as part of the action, meaning that there are no boring information dumps, the action fairly whistles along.
There’s a fair bit of graphic content, but I would say that it’s justified, it brings a visceral quality, we all know these things go on, this book suggests the reality of the struggle to keep us all safe. Nothing is off-limits, from either side.
In a way, the bad guys are as bad as they get, indeed some of the good guys might be bad guys, there are a lot of fluid alliances and shifting perspectives. You never know who will be alive at the end of the chapter, yet this is no random slaughter of men in red shirts. There’s a logical progression as plots and sub-plots come to the eyes of those who see everything.
And over it all, a presence that can only be described as other-worldly. In terms of raising the stakes, it’s a real masterstroke, giving you an insight into motivations and creating another layer of mystery.
The story is a rollercoaster journey, the end of which makes you need to read the next part.
Michelle Medhat writes in a style that’s a combination of the masters, Ian Fleming, John Le Carré, Len Deighton, The Trusted is a novel that could have come from a collaboration of them all.
June 14, 2019
Medhat’s bold, fast-moving adventure of an all-seeing agitator being, steering the world into a fierce nanotech, terror filled and explosive reality, is truly disturbing. What may seem implausible at first, begins to coalesce into a possibility, as the technology she uses comes sharply into focus. Medhat’s background and expertise in defence technology and innovation comes to the fore, taking some of the latest quantum theories, and extending them into a potential future scenario.
The Trusted starts as it means to go on, a tight-rope walk of political machinations, coupled with the depraved stealth of a growing breed of trillionaire terrorists. The multiple threads, told by an omnipotent narrator, swipes through the many facets of the changing timelines and disparate storylines, giving us a hint of the fracture that is yet to come. As the lives of the characters start to converge, we see the basis for a much larger, and more terrifying story, one that could see a sadistic despot dominate mankind on a global scale.
We are treated to scenes from Dubai, Washington, London and more, as the novel hurls itself towards ultimate destruction. Once I’d grown accustomed to the American grammar, spelling and unique sentence structure styling in this largely British book, I could see how the entire series might map out.
The complexities of the plot boil down to a simple premise; Our hero, Sam Noor, must navigate the political landscape and egos of the various western intelligence agencies, to foil the growing menace of nanotech terrorism. His attempts are hampered by those closest to him, as well as the insidious influence of a superior race of beings watching over us all. It’s spy-sci at its best. I only wish I had started with the prequel, Operation Snowdrop, which I am off to read right now.
If you are open to a deviation from the norm and enjoy unconventional plots, you will experience the ride of your life.
The Trusted starts as it means to go on, a tight-rope walk of political machinations, coupled with the depraved stealth of a growing breed of trillionaire terrorists. The multiple threads, told by an omnipotent narrator, swipes through the many facets of the changing timelines and disparate storylines, giving us a hint of the fracture that is yet to come. As the lives of the characters start to converge, we see the basis for a much larger, and more terrifying story, one that could see a sadistic despot dominate mankind on a global scale.
We are treated to scenes from Dubai, Washington, London and more, as the novel hurls itself towards ultimate destruction. Once I’d grown accustomed to the American grammar, spelling and unique sentence structure styling in this largely British book, I could see how the entire series might map out.
The complexities of the plot boil down to a simple premise; Our hero, Sam Noor, must navigate the political landscape and egos of the various western intelligence agencies, to foil the growing menace of nanotech terrorism. His attempts are hampered by those closest to him, as well as the insidious influence of a superior race of beings watching over us all. It’s spy-sci at its best. I only wish I had started with the prequel, Operation Snowdrop, which I am off to read right now.
If you are open to a deviation from the norm and enjoy unconventional plots, you will experience the ride of your life.
May 28, 2021
Hmmm... where to start. Lets not start at the beginning, but at the end. How do I feel about the book, its story and characters overall?
This is a rollicking good read, action packed with just the right amount of international politics, science, and skulduggery to keep you guessing.
The gist of it is that terrorism has coalesced into an operation comprised of the disparate entities of old, into one overarching organization lead by a psychopath and his sociopath partner, themselves products of the international security apparatus they now deftly out manoeuvre. These two demand absolute loyalty while showing none. Their dynamic is one of pain & pleasure, applying the right measures of each to achieve their ends. With the help of some heavy-hitting science in the form of nano-technology they keep their people in-line and beyond the reach of international security interests.
Their nemesis? Sam Noor, one-time nano-technology expert now a spy for MI-6. Using all of his skills to keep the "bad-guys" at bay. Sam is the international communities ace-in-the-hole, his dark side held caged and under control,... or is it?
As in reality, the line separating good and evil is, upon closer examination, composed of many shades of grey, keeping the reader off-balance as the good-guys may at times be not be so good and the bad guys, while clearly (and more consistently) in character, may not always be so bad. In this it reflects our day and age from the 1920's to present day 2021
The pages turned seemingly of their own accord and chapters flew by like pickets on a fence, though my leisure-reading time is limited, and so the book was not simply inhaled as it might have been just a few short years ago.
On reaching the end, that lost-feeling of "what now" simply did not manifest. The next book was waiting. The story continued. The cornucopia held further adventure, and I wanted to immediately binge-read the series.
This is a rollicking good read, action packed with just the right amount of international politics, science, and skulduggery to keep you guessing.
The gist of it is that terrorism has coalesced into an operation comprised of the disparate entities of old, into one overarching organization lead by a psychopath and his sociopath partner, themselves products of the international security apparatus they now deftly out manoeuvre. These two demand absolute loyalty while showing none. Their dynamic is one of pain & pleasure, applying the right measures of each to achieve their ends. With the help of some heavy-hitting science in the form of nano-technology they keep their people in-line and beyond the reach of international security interests.
Their nemesis? Sam Noor, one-time nano-technology expert now a spy for MI-6. Using all of his skills to keep the "bad-guys" at bay. Sam is the international communities ace-in-the-hole, his dark side held caged and under control,... or is it?
As in reality, the line separating good and evil is, upon closer examination, composed of many shades of grey, keeping the reader off-balance as the good-guys may at times be not be so good and the bad guys, while clearly (and more consistently) in character, may not always be so bad. In this it reflects our day and age from the 1920's to present day 2021
The pages turned seemingly of their own accord and chapters flew by like pickets on a fence, though my leisure-reading time is limited, and so the book was not simply inhaled as it might have been just a few short years ago.
On reaching the end, that lost-feeling of "what now" simply did not manifest. The next book was waiting. The story continued. The cornucopia held further adventure, and I wanted to immediately binge-read the series.
May 24, 2020
This is a plucky spy thriller meets sci-fi, full of nanotechnology, aliens, sadistic terrorists and political intrigue. What’s not to love?
Sam Noor, a top level British spy and his wife Ellie, a powerful business women, have comfortable but separate lives. After a passionate weekend, Ellie has an explainable extra-sensory experience, causing cracks in their perfect marriage and Sam divulges his secret. Throughout the rest of the book, they battle to prevent a terrorist group gaining a strangle hold over world leaders, while attempting to preserve their marriage.
The Trusted is a near, alternative future world with scenes in London and America. It’s told in close, third person narration through a wide range of characters. For me, this was one of the few drawbacks. Although the large cast gave a rich background and plausible explanation for events, it left me uncertain who was the main protagonist, and ultimately, I wasn’t invested in their struggle as much as I could have been.
Although the book ends on a cliff hanger, the rest of this series has been written and published, so there is no need to wait to find out what happens next.
If you like spy stories that have a reason behind the motives, this is a great start to a high flying adventure. There are four more books in this series.
Sam Noor, a top level British spy and his wife Ellie, a powerful business women, have comfortable but separate lives. After a passionate weekend, Ellie has an explainable extra-sensory experience, causing cracks in their perfect marriage and Sam divulges his secret. Throughout the rest of the book, they battle to prevent a terrorist group gaining a strangle hold over world leaders, while attempting to preserve their marriage.
The Trusted is a near, alternative future world with scenes in London and America. It’s told in close, third person narration through a wide range of characters. For me, this was one of the few drawbacks. Although the large cast gave a rich background and plausible explanation for events, it left me uncertain who was the main protagonist, and ultimately, I wasn’t invested in their struggle as much as I could have been.
Although the book ends on a cliff hanger, the rest of this series has been written and published, so there is no need to wait to find out what happens next.
If you like spy stories that have a reason behind the motives, this is a great start to a high flying adventure. There are four more books in this series.
September 24, 2019
My thanks to the Author publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a Kindle version of this book to read and honestly review.
This book was a disappointment while obviously well researched and written, with good characterization, I found it a struggle to finish. I am an avid reader with always at least two books on the go. One in the good old fashioned format of an actual book, and one on my Amazon Fire. When duty calls and I have get back to real life, I usually can't wait to get back to my book in this case I had to force myself because I never do not finish a book once started.
My problem was the multiple genres, this has the makings of an excellent espionage global terrorism thriller with an hero with a passing reference to 'Jason Bourne and Jack Reacher' no bad thing, but then the advanced technology and weaponry introduced a Science fiction element, ok no problem, but then here come the 'Aliens' yes Aliens the President of the good old US of A became that with the help of Aliens who monitor his progress via advanced video links, if that was not enough there are a number of unnecessary sex scenes.
Spoiler alert.
Book one of three ends with our heroes wife being kidnapped, sadly I won't be reading books 2 and 3 to find out how this series unfolds.
This book was a disappointment while obviously well researched and written, with good characterization, I found it a struggle to finish. I am an avid reader with always at least two books on the go. One in the good old fashioned format of an actual book, and one on my Amazon Fire. When duty calls and I have get back to real life, I usually can't wait to get back to my book in this case I had to force myself because I never do not finish a book once started.
My problem was the multiple genres, this has the makings of an excellent espionage global terrorism thriller with an hero with a passing reference to 'Jason Bourne and Jack Reacher' no bad thing, but then the advanced technology and weaponry introduced a Science fiction element, ok no problem, but then here come the 'Aliens' yes Aliens the President of the good old US of A became that with the help of Aliens who monitor his progress via advanced video links, if that was not enough there are a number of unnecessary sex scenes.
Spoiler alert.
Book one of three ends with our heroes wife being kidnapped, sadly I won't be reading books 2 and 3 to find out how this series unfolds.
March 28, 2023
This book showed up in my Amazon "What to read next..." list after reading a debut novel earlier in the month. Since that one blew me away, I thought I'd give this a try. It gave me a lot of angst.
Some aspects of it were intriguing. There was quite a bit of action. I was really compelled by one of the characters. There were a few parts that were a joy to read, a few that were a slog, and the rest were just ok. The overall premise was interesting, even though suspended belief was necessary. Part of what bothered me was the disjointed plot. There were several times that I had no idea where the book was going, or how the plot was ultimately served. Yes, it does seem to come together in the end... kind of? However, I am still left wondering if some of the storyline that was simply 'fused' into the overall plot was even necessary, or if a more organized, compelling way could've been utilized. The foreshadowing and plot-building definitely could have been better.
If you're into sci-fi, aliens, and don't mind wild stories that are just written to spurn imagination, then you will enjoy this. If you prefer more structure, well-establish story-telling devices, and a larger degree of believability, then I your experience may vary considerably.
Some aspects of it were intriguing. There was quite a bit of action. I was really compelled by one of the characters. There were a few parts that were a joy to read, a few that were a slog, and the rest were just ok. The overall premise was interesting, even though suspended belief was necessary. Part of what bothered me was the disjointed plot. There were several times that I had no idea where the book was going, or how the plot was ultimately served. Yes, it does seem to come together in the end... kind of? However, I am still left wondering if some of the storyline that was simply 'fused' into the overall plot was even necessary, or if a more organized, compelling way could've been utilized. The foreshadowing and plot-building definitely could have been better.
If you're into sci-fi, aliens, and don't mind wild stories that are just written to spurn imagination, then you will enjoy this. If you prefer more structure, well-establish story-telling devices, and a larger degree of believability, then I your experience may vary considerably.
done-with
May 25, 2019I really wanted to like this one, but just never felt like I connected enough with any of the characters to care what was happening to them... (I feel like I've been starting a lot of reviews this way lately, and it's starting to get depressing.)
The blurb made this one sound right up my alley - spies, weird stuff, secrets, good v. evil - but the delivery was awkward,the characters oddly flat, the story line convoluted and the supernatural stuff vague and ancillary (at least as far as I got - which is about half-way) and I never seemed to connect with any of it. There's a cool core concept here, but the execution felt forced and didn't flow smoothly. There are multiple story lines and traumatic events that happen like a hit-and-run, shifting narrative perspectives that flow in parallel but never seem to overlap in a way that explains anything, and numerous characters that dance in and out of the action with so much fluidity I felt like I needed a flow chart to keep track...
My review copy was provided by NetGalley.
This one just didn't work for me.
The blurb made this one sound right up my alley - spies, weird stuff, secrets, good v. evil - but the delivery was awkward,the characters oddly flat, the story line convoluted and the supernatural stuff vague and ancillary (at least as far as I got - which is about half-way) and I never seemed to connect with any of it. There's a cool core concept here, but the execution felt forced and didn't flow smoothly. There are multiple story lines and traumatic events that happen like a hit-and-run, shifting narrative perspectives that flow in parallel but never seem to overlap in a way that explains anything, and numerous characters that dance in and out of the action with so much fluidity I felt like I needed a flow chart to keep track...
My review copy was provided by NetGalley.
This one just didn't work for me.
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