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Dewey Andreas #7
Trap the Devil
A group of the most powerful people in the government, military and private sector has begun a brutal plan to quietly take over the reins of government. Once in power, they plan to start a brutal war on an unimaginable scale. Meanwhile the Secretary of State is going to Paris for secret talks. Dewey Andreas is to be an extra layer of security. But what should be an easy mission couldn t go more wrong. The cabal has sent in a hit man to take out the Secretary of State and lay the blame at the feet of Dewey himself. With the Secretary dead, shot by Dewey s weapon, he msut go on the run, desperately trying to unravel the plot before the conspirators succeed in killing millions of innocents. A pulse-pounding thrill ride, perfect for fans of Mark Greaney, Lee Child and J. B. Turner.
416 pages, Paperback
First published June 20, 2017
740 people are currently reading
2723 people want to read
About the author
Ben Coes
35 books1,791 followersHi and thanks for visiting my Goodreads profile!
I'm a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of international political and espionage thrillers. Nine of these books are part of a series featuring Dewey Andreas, including:
Power Down #1
Coup D'Etat #2
The Last Refuge #3
Eye for an Eye #4
Independence Day #5
Trap the Devil #6
First Strike #7
Bloody Sunday #8
The Russian is the first book in a new spin-off series about the Russian Mafia, starring Rob Tacoma.
My next book The Island comes out this summer and is available for pre-order.
All of my books are based on current events and are strongly influenced by friends who are or were in the military, law enforcement, and intelligence circles.
I went to Columbia College and was awarded the university's highest writing award, the Bennett Cerf Memorial Prize for Fiction. I was a White House Intern under Ronald Reagan and served as a White House-appointed speechwriter to the U.S. Secretary of Energy during the Gulf War. I was a Fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.
I lives in Massachusetts with my wife and children.
I hope you'll visit my website and sign-up for my newsletter: https://bencoes.com
Thanks for being a reader!!
I'm a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of international political and espionage thrillers. Nine of these books are part of a series featuring Dewey Andreas, including:
Power Down #1
Coup D'Etat #2
The Last Refuge #3
Eye for an Eye #4
Independence Day #5
Trap the Devil #6
First Strike #7
Bloody Sunday #8
The Russian is the first book in a new spin-off series about the Russian Mafia, starring Rob Tacoma.
My next book The Island comes out this summer and is available for pre-order.
All of my books are based on current events and are strongly influenced by friends who are or were in the military, law enforcement, and intelligence circles.
I went to Columbia College and was awarded the university's highest writing award, the Bennett Cerf Memorial Prize for Fiction. I was a White House Intern under Ronald Reagan and served as a White House-appointed speechwriter to the U.S. Secretary of Energy during the Gulf War. I was a Fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.
I lives in Massachusetts with my wife and children.
I hope you'll visit my website and sign-up for my newsletter: https://bencoes.com
Thanks for being a reader!!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews
June 18, 2017
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ben Coes, and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Ben Coes brings Dewey Andreas back for yet another explosive thriller that will have series fans sitting on the edge of their seats. During an FBI operation in Toronto, a group is seen entering a local mosque and killing everyone inside; their intent, to rid the world of Muslims under any circumstances. This foreshadows a larger and much more ominous plan that could soon play out within America. Meanwhile, Dewey Andreas is still trying to come to terms with everything that happened on his last mission, forced to synthesize his thoughts and actions with a psychotherapist. While the recommendation is that Andreas take some time off behind a desk, he negotiates a calmer mission, sent to France to protect the Secretary of State during a tension-filled secret meeting. The Secretary is visited by a woman who delivers an explosive terror plot, though Andreas cannot make it back before someone is sent to assassinate the Secretary. By the time he returns, Andreas learns his gun was used in the killings and he is detained. While being interrogated, Andreas must do all he can to get out and catch the killer, suspecting that elusive woman he saw in the vicinity. After organizing an escape, Andreas begins his hunt for the truth, but INTERPOL's release of his prison escape alerts the world to his status and presents his key enemies with a chance to locate him and end his life once and for all. With key the deaths of key political figures imminent, Andreas must work within the CIA and use his own intuition to find those who plan to overthrow the country's stability. Andreas has enemies coming from all sides, leaving him to fight both those known and unknown to nullify the plot before it is too late. A wonderfully fast-paced thriller that will keep series fans begging for more and could easily lure new readers into starting this fabulous series.
Ben Coes has the ability to craft a strong political thriller without getting caught up in all the fodder that seems to be a common theme within the genre at present. While ISIS was once the buzz topic, a shift to explore the other side, homegrown terror cells to rid the world of Islam seems to be a new take and one that works well for Coes as he places Dewey Andreas in the centre of the firestorm. Andreas is a complex character, a tough exterior that acts to protect a man who has suffered much loss. Adding an interesting cast of characters to complement and offset Andreas, Coes has been able to keep the flow of the story strong and the plot from lagging. Speaking of plot, the story moves forward on many levels simultaneously, with Andreas in the crosshairs as he tries to foil a plan that could change the entire political landscape in one afternoon alongside the race to exterminate a woman who has all the secrets garnered from an overheard conversation. The reader races through the short chapters to find out just what awaits, unsure if Andreas might have finally met his match. Coes shows why he is the master of his genre as he crafts the perfect summer novel that will leave readers looking over the shoulder at every turn.
Kudos, Mr. Coes for another sensational piece of work. I will surely be promoting it to anyone who might want to inject a little thrill into their reading.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Ben Coes brings Dewey Andreas back for yet another explosive thriller that will have series fans sitting on the edge of their seats. During an FBI operation in Toronto, a group is seen entering a local mosque and killing everyone inside; their intent, to rid the world of Muslims under any circumstances. This foreshadows a larger and much more ominous plan that could soon play out within America. Meanwhile, Dewey Andreas is still trying to come to terms with everything that happened on his last mission, forced to synthesize his thoughts and actions with a psychotherapist. While the recommendation is that Andreas take some time off behind a desk, he negotiates a calmer mission, sent to France to protect the Secretary of State during a tension-filled secret meeting. The Secretary is visited by a woman who delivers an explosive terror plot, though Andreas cannot make it back before someone is sent to assassinate the Secretary. By the time he returns, Andreas learns his gun was used in the killings and he is detained. While being interrogated, Andreas must do all he can to get out and catch the killer, suspecting that elusive woman he saw in the vicinity. After organizing an escape, Andreas begins his hunt for the truth, but INTERPOL's release of his prison escape alerts the world to his status and presents his key enemies with a chance to locate him and end his life once and for all. With key the deaths of key political figures imminent, Andreas must work within the CIA and use his own intuition to find those who plan to overthrow the country's stability. Andreas has enemies coming from all sides, leaving him to fight both those known and unknown to nullify the plot before it is too late. A wonderfully fast-paced thriller that will keep series fans begging for more and could easily lure new readers into starting this fabulous series.
Ben Coes has the ability to craft a strong political thriller without getting caught up in all the fodder that seems to be a common theme within the genre at present. While ISIS was once the buzz topic, a shift to explore the other side, homegrown terror cells to rid the world of Islam seems to be a new take and one that works well for Coes as he places Dewey Andreas in the centre of the firestorm. Andreas is a complex character, a tough exterior that acts to protect a man who has suffered much loss. Adding an interesting cast of characters to complement and offset Andreas, Coes has been able to keep the flow of the story strong and the plot from lagging. Speaking of plot, the story moves forward on many levels simultaneously, with Andreas in the crosshairs as he tries to foil a plan that could change the entire political landscape in one afternoon alongside the race to exterminate a woman who has all the secrets garnered from an overheard conversation. The reader races through the short chapters to find out just what awaits, unsure if Andreas might have finally met his match. Coes shows why he is the master of his genre as he crafts the perfect summer novel that will leave readers looking over the shoulder at every turn.
Kudos, Mr. Coes for another sensational piece of work. I will surely be promoting it to anyone who might want to inject a little thrill into their reading.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
March 27, 2017
See this review and more at www.TheRealBookSpy.com
Dewey Andreas returns for another high-stakes, conspiracy-laden, balls-to-the-wall adventure in Ben Coes’ latest thriller, Trap The Devil.
Still recovering from the serious injuries he suffered in First Strike (2016), Dewey Andreas is on restricted duty with the CIA. Ordered to see a shrink in order to help process everything he’s been through, Dewey reluctantly agrees, but only to get back in the field.
To ease his star player back into the game, CIA Director Hector Calibrisi sends Dewey to Paris as part of Secretary of State Tim Lindsay’s protective detail. Things take a shocking turn, though, when Lindsay is assassinated in his hotel room shortly after arriving.
Security footage reveals that Dewey was the last person to visit Lindsay in his hotel suite, and ballistic tests show it was Dewey’s gun that killed the Secretary of State. While Andreas remains adamant that he was at dinner during the time of the murder, he’s detained and cut off from any and all outside help and denied any opportunity to talk to Calibrisi.
Left alone, Dewey begins to analyze the situation and decides that in order to catch the real killer, he has to escape from the black site prison facility where he’s currently being held. That kicks off a classic Ben Coes high-octane action sequence that would be the book’s high point if it wasn’t for a white-knuckle chase scene set onboard a fast-moving train chugging through the Swiss Alps later in the story.
Free from the authorities but on the run, Dewey learns that Lindsay wasn’t the only high-profile American diplomat to die within the last few days. The Speaker of the House, Lowell Benson Trappe Jr., was also killed, though initial reports suggest he accidentally drowned while hunting on Ossabaw Island.
Dewey knows that there are no coincidences in his line of work, and that the only way two high-profile American diplomats die that close together is if someone is taking them out. Further investigation reveals that a secret cabal–formed in the 1980s– is operating behind the scenes as a shadow government, with a plan to take over the White House in order to implement their radical agenda.
More than thirty years ago, the CIA created a secret paramilitary unit dubbed ‘Order Six.’ Buried deep in the State Department’s budget, Order Six was developed to take preemptive measures in protecting the President of the United States. Recruiting from the very best of the best–including the CIA’s paramilitary, Delta, and the Navy SEALS, Order Six formed an elite strike team that could operate anywhere, including on American soil.
But now, years later, Order Six has gone rogue and is knee-deep in their plan to change America forever–a plan that includes killing everyone and anyone who stands in their way, including Dewey.
As Dewey races to avoid the authorities, stay one step ahead of an assassin hot on his heels, and stop the cabal before they accomplish their goal, he receives help from several familiar faces that longtime fans of Coes’ series will recognize, including former Navy SEAL and Dewey’s friend, Rob Tacoma.
The on-the-run scenario mixed with a deep government conspiracy reads like a cross between one of Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne novels and some of Tom Clancy’s early work. Coes spices it up with his trademark brand of sarcastic humor, something he knows how (and when) to use better than most.
Just when you think Coes has peaked, he unveils a new gear, elevating his series to an entirely new level. While the nonstop action is the main course here, the complex, thought-provoking plot and character development prove to be the cherry on top to Coes’ relentless, adrenaline-pumping thriller.
Not only will readers see a new side to Andreas, who finally opens up and says things fans have waited years to hear him admit, but Coes slips one final shocking twist into his plot that will stun readers and have a lasting impact on Dewey moving forward.
With a plot that moves faster than the Lamborghini Aventador Dewey uses to evade French authorities, Coes’ latest offering is his best novel to date. While action and deftly-plotted scenarios have been his calling card in the past, the character development and emotion written into Trap The Devil elevates Ben Coes to the very top of the thriller genre, where he sits alongside the likes of Brad Thor, Daniel Silva, and the late Vince Flynn.
Book Details
Author: Ben Coes
Series: Dewey Andreas #7
Pages: 480 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 1250043182
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Release Date: June 20, 2017
Order Now: http://amzn.to/2ne3jXz
Dewey Andreas returns for another high-stakes, conspiracy-laden, balls-to-the-wall adventure in Ben Coes’ latest thriller, Trap The Devil.
Still recovering from the serious injuries he suffered in First Strike (2016), Dewey Andreas is on restricted duty with the CIA. Ordered to see a shrink in order to help process everything he’s been through, Dewey reluctantly agrees, but only to get back in the field.
To ease his star player back into the game, CIA Director Hector Calibrisi sends Dewey to Paris as part of Secretary of State Tim Lindsay’s protective detail. Things take a shocking turn, though, when Lindsay is assassinated in his hotel room shortly after arriving.
Security footage reveals that Dewey was the last person to visit Lindsay in his hotel suite, and ballistic tests show it was Dewey’s gun that killed the Secretary of State. While Andreas remains adamant that he was at dinner during the time of the murder, he’s detained and cut off from any and all outside help and denied any opportunity to talk to Calibrisi.
Left alone, Dewey begins to analyze the situation and decides that in order to catch the real killer, he has to escape from the black site prison facility where he’s currently being held. That kicks off a classic Ben Coes high-octane action sequence that would be the book’s high point if it wasn’t for a white-knuckle chase scene set onboard a fast-moving train chugging through the Swiss Alps later in the story.
Free from the authorities but on the run, Dewey learns that Lindsay wasn’t the only high-profile American diplomat to die within the last few days. The Speaker of the House, Lowell Benson Trappe Jr., was also killed, though initial reports suggest he accidentally drowned while hunting on Ossabaw Island.
Dewey knows that there are no coincidences in his line of work, and that the only way two high-profile American diplomats die that close together is if someone is taking them out. Further investigation reveals that a secret cabal–formed in the 1980s– is operating behind the scenes as a shadow government, with a plan to take over the White House in order to implement their radical agenda.
More than thirty years ago, the CIA created a secret paramilitary unit dubbed ‘Order Six.’ Buried deep in the State Department’s budget, Order Six was developed to take preemptive measures in protecting the President of the United States. Recruiting from the very best of the best–including the CIA’s paramilitary, Delta, and the Navy SEALS, Order Six formed an elite strike team that could operate anywhere, including on American soil.
But now, years later, Order Six has gone rogue and is knee-deep in their plan to change America forever–a plan that includes killing everyone and anyone who stands in their way, including Dewey.
As Dewey races to avoid the authorities, stay one step ahead of an assassin hot on his heels, and stop the cabal before they accomplish their goal, he receives help from several familiar faces that longtime fans of Coes’ series will recognize, including former Navy SEAL and Dewey’s friend, Rob Tacoma.
The on-the-run scenario mixed with a deep government conspiracy reads like a cross between one of Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne novels and some of Tom Clancy’s early work. Coes spices it up with his trademark brand of sarcastic humor, something he knows how (and when) to use better than most.
Just when you think Coes has peaked, he unveils a new gear, elevating his series to an entirely new level. While the nonstop action is the main course here, the complex, thought-provoking plot and character development prove to be the cherry on top to Coes’ relentless, adrenaline-pumping thriller.
Not only will readers see a new side to Andreas, who finally opens up and says things fans have waited years to hear him admit, but Coes slips one final shocking twist into his plot that will stun readers and have a lasting impact on Dewey moving forward.
With a plot that moves faster than the Lamborghini Aventador Dewey uses to evade French authorities, Coes’ latest offering is his best novel to date. While action and deftly-plotted scenarios have been his calling card in the past, the character development and emotion written into Trap The Devil elevates Ben Coes to the very top of the thriller genre, where he sits alongside the likes of Brad Thor, Daniel Silva, and the late Vince Flynn.
Book Details
Author: Ben Coes
Series: Dewey Andreas #7
Pages: 480 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 1250043182
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Release Date: June 20, 2017
Order Now: http://amzn.to/2ne3jXz
February 9, 2023
Updated 10/4/2019: I have nothing more to add. This was a thrilling, harrowing adventure. Dewey’s car chase through Paris was especially nerve wracking as narrated on Audible. The narrator was a Fantastic! I found myself on the edge of my seat through the whole book. Definitely my favorite of the series...I know, I said that about First Strike, but I think this was even better. The revelations in this book put a huge spin on what we’ve thought about Dewey through the whole series.
Another high-octane, auctioned-packed thriller from one of my very favorite authors. Ben Coes does a magnificent job of creating a complex conspiracy involving the over-throwing of the US Government using our very constitutional rules governing succession. Ben Coes is a master of thrilling sequences. There is the trademark chase scene involving a Lamborghini Aventador through the streets of Paris that is only topped by a harrowing scene aboard a speeding train.
In addition to the action sequences, there are some old friends and old enemies brought along to distract Dewey from his mission. There is also an amazing revaluation for Dewey.
Overall, these keep getting better and better. I cannot wait for Bloody Sunday to be released in July
Another high-octane, auctioned-packed thriller from one of my very favorite authors. Ben Coes does a magnificent job of creating a complex conspiracy involving the over-throwing of the US Government using our very constitutional rules governing succession. Ben Coes is a master of thrilling sequences. There is the trademark chase scene involving a Lamborghini Aventador through the streets of Paris that is only topped by a harrowing scene aboard a speeding train.
In addition to the action sequences, there are some old friends and old enemies brought along to distract Dewey from his mission. There is also an amazing revaluation for Dewey.
Overall, these keep getting better and better. I cannot wait for Bloody Sunday to be released in July
May 20, 2020
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A very timely book.
The Deep State is attempting a coup, and has already assassinated the Speaker of the House. Dewey Andreas, still having problems with PTSD, is sent to Paris with the Secretary of State. The SOS winds up dead, and Dewey is framed for the crime. Dewey has to get to the bottom of things, clear his name, and stop the conspiracy. Great sequences on a train, and at a political event. Couldn't put the book down.
Highly recommended.
A very timely book.
The Deep State is attempting a coup, and has already assassinated the Speaker of the House. Dewey Andreas, still having problems with PTSD, is sent to Paris with the Secretary of State. The SOS winds up dead, and Dewey is framed for the crime. Dewey has to get to the bottom of things, clear his name, and stop the conspiracy. Great sequences on a train, and at a political event. Couldn't put the book down.
Highly recommended.
June 20, 2017
A great thriller.
July 18, 2017
Wow, what an exceptional story. Ben Coes really knows how to write brilliant Action Thrillers, and he has built up quite a following with his fabulous books. I’ve read all seven books in the series, and I’ve really enjoyed every one of them. This book has a good balance between the Action scenes and the main story line. There is also a vast range of interesting and diverse characters. Dewey thought he was being given a soft assignment when his boss asked him to travel to Paris to look after the Secretary of State. Romy Banker was unlucky enough to over hear her husband’s horrifying plan, and even more so to learn that Kyrie was a paid assassin. Romy knew that she had to find someone she could trust, and pass on what Kyrie and some other powerful men were planning. She had no idea what lengths these men were prepared to go to stop her. When the Secretary of State is killed and Dewey is accused of his murder, he is suddenly put on everyone’s radar around the world. His biggest problem isn’t so much getting out of the murder wrap, but more so the dangerous men who are out to kill him. The Author has that wonderful ability to pull the reader into the story and not let go. Highly recommended.
June 21, 2017
It almost breaks my heart to give this author 2 stars. I have loved his books. I even own some of them, including this one. But this book did NOT work for me. I wish it did. I was expecting to love this.
First, I disliked the narrator immensely. He did not do Dewey justice. The narrator sounded mean and angry. So strike 1....and this was a big one, especially if you are one who crushes on Dewey.
Second, the story felt dated with the whole "Kill all the Muslims" theme. It wasn't even kill the extremists or Isis, etc. It was .... Kill all the Muslims. (His words not mine).
The third thing was the premise. A group of people hate the above mentioned, so much, that they want to remove those countries from the face of earth. So to do that, they plan to take out any with power in the US so they can take over and get the launch codes. Really? I don't think so.
This was a little disappointing.
First, I disliked the narrator immensely. He did not do Dewey justice. The narrator sounded mean and angry. So strike 1....and this was a big one, especially if you are one who crushes on Dewey.
Second, the story felt dated with the whole "Kill all the Muslims" theme. It wasn't even kill the extremists or Isis, etc. It was .... Kill all the Muslims. (His words not mine).
The third thing was the premise. A group of people hate the above mentioned, so much, that they want to remove those countries from the face of earth. So to do that, they plan to take out any with power in the US so they can take over and get the launch codes. Really? I don't think so.
This was a little disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2017
3.5 I REALLY don't want to rate this book in the threes, but I must. Let me preface my review by saying this: Ben Coes is a terrific writer and has developed Dewey Andreas into a dynamic, multi-dimensional, likable protagonist. I anticipate and anxiously look forward to every new installment of this series!
However, my criticism of TRAP THE DEVIL is that It was just TOO fantastical. I know readers of political thrillers have to suspend disbelief. I get that. However, this one pushed my suspension of disbelief to the max and way over: walking and then fighting on top of a high speed train in a blizzard, performing feats of endurance beyond even super human capacity, speaking about assassinations over an insecure phone, escaping rather easily from a high security prison, a woman who has intellect and intuitive survival skills keeping and using a traceable credit card....to name a few. REALLY? Come on.
The pace is fast with high adrenaline action. The plot is intriguing, and I am just naive enough to wonder could this REALLY happen? Whoa! There are unanswered questions, which I trust are cliffhangers for another installment. I enjoyed this book, and devoured it; I wish it was not so outlandish as that spoiled it somewhat for me.
However, my criticism of TRAP THE DEVIL is that It was just TOO fantastical. I know readers of political thrillers have to suspend disbelief. I get that. However, this one pushed my suspension of disbelief to the max and way over: walking and then fighting on top of a high speed train in a blizzard, performing feats of endurance beyond even super human capacity, speaking about assassinations over an insecure phone, escaping rather easily from a high security prison, a woman who has intellect and intuitive survival skills keeping and using a traceable credit card....to name a few. REALLY? Come on.
The pace is fast with high adrenaline action. The plot is intriguing, and I am just naive enough to wonder could this REALLY happen? Whoa! There are unanswered questions, which I trust are cliffhangers for another installment. I enjoyed this book, and devoured it; I wish it was not so outlandish as that spoiled it somewhat for me.
June 23, 2017
You would think at this point Dewey's past would stay in the past, but no, Dewey had old hurts come back to hurt him, yet I think it also healed some things too. Dewey learned that he wasn't the cause for so much and that he can depend on his friends, they wouldn't let him out there flopping in the wind. Of course Dewey being Dewey, he managed to get himself out of a hard spot and even save the day (again!), while pushing his way into a crazy scheme. By the end of the book it seems like Dewey is more at peace in his life once more, too bad there is another threat coming his way.
July 2, 2017
I was pretty disappointed by this book. There was just too much of everything. I couldn't suspend disbelief quite enough for this book to feel at all realistic to me.
June 24, 2017
Trap the Devil by Ben Coes
Ben Coes has another phenomenal book on his hands! I really enjoyed the plot and how the inner circle of politics could potentially ruin everything this country stands for! Dewey is a ruthless character he can and will protect himself! It's a fast paced read with some pieces of info that connect previous books and bring some things full circle.
Ben has always been one of my favorite authors but he really does set the bar high and bringing Dewey into the realm where he is now shows tremendous character progression and leaves you wanting more!!
I also have purchased and listened to some of the audiobook and I think it's really good too! I like the narrator and it's definitely a home run too! Make sure you go pick this one up!
Ben Coes has another phenomenal book on his hands! I really enjoyed the plot and how the inner circle of politics could potentially ruin everything this country stands for! Dewey is a ruthless character he can and will protect himself! It's a fast paced read with some pieces of info that connect previous books and bring some things full circle.
Ben has always been one of my favorite authors but he really does set the bar high and bringing Dewey into the realm where he is now shows tremendous character progression and leaves you wanting more!!
I also have purchased and listened to some of the audiobook and I think it's really good too! I like the narrator and it's definitely a home run too! Make sure you go pick this one up!
June 8, 2021
Trap the Devils is another high speed suspense adventure with Dewey Andreas from Ben Coes. This time Dewey has a simple task of protecting the Secratary of state in France while recuperating from wounds he got in First Strike. While there things go sideways when the Secratary is murdered with Deweys gun and he has to run. While trying to proove his innocence he finds out that the Speaker of the house also died supposedly in a drowning accident. Soon Dewey is on the tracks of an old CIA group called Order Six that is planning to make some changes in US government. This is another great book by Ben Coes and I must thank @netgalley and @stmartinspress for making it available to me.
June 27, 2017
Former Delta Special Operator Dewey Andreas drives max action against a treasonous cabal's campaign at coup d'etat in this high energy, suspenseful thriller.
July 4, 2017
An awesome thriller. The book looks thick but it went by quick while keeps you on the edge of your seat.
March 19, 2018
Awful. Nasty and vile, racist, sexist, poorly written, sounded like a TV movie script. I've read the other books in the series and had to go back to look at my comments on the other books. Were they all this awful and I just didn't notice? Was I taking powerful cold medicine when I read the first six books, or was the author on crack when he wrote #7? A little of both?
Ex 1: During the middle of a terrorist attack, an analyst calls the boss to her desk to show him some important finding. Instead of asking about the finding, or going to see about it, the boss stands up in his office, gazes lovingly upon a framed photo of his brother, and then spends two pages reminiscing about the brother, how he died, how brother was a terrorist who died in some terrorist way, and on and on for two pages. I could practically hear the sad music playing as the screen faded and close up zoomed onto Dead Terrorist Brother. When boss finally makes it to the analyst, he has to ask her again why she called him, because he forgot, after wasting two pages giving us pointless back filler. And how does the big boss of the NSA have a terrorist brother that no one knows about? Even if the background investigation missed it, did no one notice the framed photo of Dead Terrorist Brother?
Ex 2: Male jihadists are desctibed as wearing hijab. I'm no expert, but even Wikipedia describes hijab as a veil worn by women. Maybe the author means keffiyeh? Maybe these are really ladies and the description is wrong? Maybe there are no copy editors? Maybe the author just thinks that the audience is stupid? (My money is on that last one)
Ex 3: A medical examiner investigating at a crime scene is described as "standing in a pool of blood". In the very next sentence, they are kneeling in the blood. Which is it? Standing or kneeling? And why? There was no action in between - "And then Medical Examiner Bob knelt down in the blood to get a better look at something" Isn't that CSI101 - don't stand in the blood?
Ex 1: During the middle of a terrorist attack, an analyst calls the boss to her desk to show him some important finding. Instead of asking about the finding, or going to see about it, the boss stands up in his office, gazes lovingly upon a framed photo of his brother, and then spends two pages reminiscing about the brother, how he died, how brother was a terrorist who died in some terrorist way, and on and on for two pages. I could practically hear the sad music playing as the screen faded and close up zoomed onto Dead Terrorist Brother. When boss finally makes it to the analyst, he has to ask her again why she called him, because he forgot, after wasting two pages giving us pointless back filler. And how does the big boss of the NSA have a terrorist brother that no one knows about? Even if the background investigation missed it, did no one notice the framed photo of Dead Terrorist Brother?
Ex 2: Male jihadists are desctibed as wearing hijab. I'm no expert, but even Wikipedia describes hijab as a veil worn by women. Maybe the author means keffiyeh? Maybe these are really ladies and the description is wrong? Maybe there are no copy editors? Maybe the author just thinks that the audience is stupid? (My money is on that last one)
Ex 3: A medical examiner investigating at a crime scene is described as "standing in a pool of blood". In the very next sentence, they are kneeling in the blood. Which is it? Standing or kneeling? And why? There was no action in between - "And then Medical Examiner Bob knelt down in the blood to get a better look at something" Isn't that CSI101 - don't stand in the blood?
July 21, 2017
1 1/2 Stars -- Strains The Ability To Believe Well Beyond The Breaking Point!
I've been a huge fan of Dewey Andreas throughout the first six books in this series, finding them to be excellent topical, plot driven thrillers with a very heroic main character. As such, any new book by Ben Coes was a "must read' for me. Unfortunately, I was quite disappointed in Trap The Devil, the seventh book in the series, thus making it the only Dewey Andreas book I would not highly recommend.
Overall, I consider the plot CONCEPT of Trap The Devil (which can be read about in the Amazon Book Description above) to be intriguing. My disappointment stems entirely from Coes' plot EXECUTION. One part of this disappointment pertains to the inconsistency in its pacing. That is, while the first and final hundred pages or so of the book were very fast-paced and action-packed, the middle two hundred pages or so were, to me, somewhat convoluted, disjointed and a much slower-paced read. Making the book read more like taking a long train ride that makes a lot of local stops, versus an express. The other -- and much more major -- cause for my disappointment is that much too much of the action in which Andreas engages in is way over the top and, oftentimes, preposterous; thus, seriously minimizing the credibility of the plot for me. If you've read any of the books in this series, you know that Dewey Andreas is a superhero...although he has always seemed to be a credible character, and a character I was always ready to go out with (at least vicariously) on his next mission.
Having now read Trap The Devil, I plan to read Ben Coes' next book in the series, although it won't be as much of a "must read."
I've been a huge fan of Dewey Andreas throughout the first six books in this series, finding them to be excellent topical, plot driven thrillers with a very heroic main character. As such, any new book by Ben Coes was a "must read' for me. Unfortunately, I was quite disappointed in Trap The Devil, the seventh book in the series, thus making it the only Dewey Andreas book I would not highly recommend.
Overall, I consider the plot CONCEPT of Trap The Devil (which can be read about in the Amazon Book Description above) to be intriguing. My disappointment stems entirely from Coes' plot EXECUTION. One part of this disappointment pertains to the inconsistency in its pacing. That is, while the first and final hundred pages or so of the book were very fast-paced and action-packed, the middle two hundred pages or so were, to me, somewhat convoluted, disjointed and a much slower-paced read. Making the book read more like taking a long train ride that makes a lot of local stops, versus an express. The other -- and much more major -- cause for my disappointment is that much too much of the action in which Andreas engages in is way over the top and, oftentimes, preposterous; thus, seriously minimizing the credibility of the plot for me. If you've read any of the books in this series, you know that Dewey Andreas is a superhero...although he has always seemed to be a credible character, and a character I was always ready to go out with (at least vicariously) on his next mission.
Having now read Trap The Devil, I plan to read Ben Coes' next book in the series, although it won't be as much of a "must read."
May 30, 2018
I really, really wanted to love this book. I had read the typical reviews about how amazing it was and had been looking forward to its release since it was announced. I spend quite a bit of time cycling and even listened to all six of the preceding books in preparation. I was pumped. Preordered. Ready the day it came out.
Trap the Devil started with a bang and I smiled thinking that I was in for another amazing Dewey Andreas book. I found myself shaking my head and telling my wife that some bad person had done this or that but that I felt Dewey could handle it. She just shook her head at me and told me I was an idiot.
Then it slowed down. There were entire sections where Dewey was left out of the story. I know there has to be a foundation and building up for a better, more well-rounded story, but I found myself waiting and hoping Ben Coes would involve him sooner, or more. TO BE FAIR, that is one of the things that I like about this character: entire plots don't revolve around him. Terrorists will hatch their evil plans, they develop, and then Dewey inserts himself into their story. He is human. He plays catch-up instead of predicting their moves. People die that he tries to protect. He gets hurt. A lot.
It was a good read. It was a moderately fast read for me. I usually fall asleep after about 5 minutes of reading a night but I was able to read long stretches in this book -- I just didn't feel like I had to. I guess that is the base of my being somewhat disappointed.
I will still read the next one the day it comes out.
Trap the Devil started with a bang and I smiled thinking that I was in for another amazing Dewey Andreas book. I found myself shaking my head and telling my wife that some bad person had done this or that but that I felt Dewey could handle it. She just shook her head at me and told me I was an idiot.
Then it slowed down. There were entire sections where Dewey was left out of the story. I know there has to be a foundation and building up for a better, more well-rounded story, but I found myself waiting and hoping Ben Coes would involve him sooner, or more. TO BE FAIR, that is one of the things that I like about this character: entire plots don't revolve around him. Terrorists will hatch their evil plans, they develop, and then Dewey inserts himself into their story. He is human. He plays catch-up instead of predicting their moves. People die that he tries to protect. He gets hurt. A lot.
It was a good read. It was a moderately fast read for me. I usually fall asleep after about 5 minutes of reading a night but I was able to read long stretches in this book -- I just didn't feel like I had to. I guess that is the base of my being somewhat disappointed.
I will still read the next one the day it comes out.
April 27, 2019
Don’t waste your time.
To think Ben Coes’ hero might be considered on the level of Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp and others is absurd-maybe in the beginning, but not any more.
This book takes the once interesting character of Dewey Andreas far beyond ALL believability. Sadly, the result is cartoonish and not in a good way.
I liked the first several books of the Andreas saga, but this one convinced me Coes has lost his way and taken Andreas totally off the rails.
Filled with “gun porn” -I mean seriously who cares what brand and model bipod a sniper uses? Or what model sub machine gun a guard carries? This book is filled with such stupidly incessant detail trying to imply Coes is an “operator.”
Beyond all that claptrap, there is (spoiler alert) a ridiculous series of chapters that take place inside and outside a speeding train-in a blizzard, a night no less-bending if not breaking the laws of physics, biology and gravity....and allowing not one, not two, but four people to crawl in and out, run, fight and jump from the train with no detriment. I think Mr. Coes believes Andreas is an Avenger, not a human. That said, not even Thor could do some of the stuff Andreas does in this yarn.
Finally-a tired, timeworn simple-minded premise-a shadow, Islamaphobic deep state group’s plot to overthrow our democratic republic, wipe out Islam (seriously? all 1billion plus?!?) and replace it with a “new and improved” MAGA regime? Yawn.
Sorry I wasted my time on this 482 pages of drivel
To think Ben Coes’ hero might be considered on the level of Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp and others is absurd-maybe in the beginning, but not any more.
This book takes the once interesting character of Dewey Andreas far beyond ALL believability. Sadly, the result is cartoonish and not in a good way.
I liked the first several books of the Andreas saga, but this one convinced me Coes has lost his way and taken Andreas totally off the rails.
Filled with “gun porn” -I mean seriously who cares what brand and model bipod a sniper uses? Or what model sub machine gun a guard carries? This book is filled with such stupidly incessant detail trying to imply Coes is an “operator.”
Beyond all that claptrap, there is (spoiler alert) a ridiculous series of chapters that take place inside and outside a speeding train-in a blizzard, a night no less-bending if not breaking the laws of physics, biology and gravity....and allowing not one, not two, but four people to crawl in and out, run, fight and jump from the train with no detriment. I think Mr. Coes believes Andreas is an Avenger, not a human. That said, not even Thor could do some of the stuff Andreas does in this yarn.
Finally-a tired, timeworn simple-minded premise-a shadow, Islamaphobic deep state group’s plot to overthrow our democratic republic, wipe out Islam (seriously? all 1billion plus?!?) and replace it with a “new and improved” MAGA regime? Yawn.
Sorry I wasted my time on this 482 pages of drivel
August 17, 2021
First time I read this in February I failed, as normal, to rate it. So I just reread it. I am moving from a four star to a five star hoping that it irritates some of fools who look favorably on the American Democratic Party. Yeah I don't like the party that killed Lincoln, brought in Jim Crow laws for 100 years, put Japanese Americans in camps, dropped two Atomic bombs on a almost defenseless Japan instead of dropping them on the Soviets, and my personal angst against them for voting for the "gulf of Tonkin Resolution" giving Johnson and the military industry a path to be responsible for 3.5 million deaths in South East Asia. Just my objective opinions. (former Sgt., United States Regular Army 1965-1968)
September 21, 2017
One of the better books I have read in a long time. I read it in 3 days. Let me tell you, it was excelerating and from a reader perspective, I was just as nervous as a newbie entering unfamiliar territory. Dewey does some magical stuff and the book does not let you down...just a trip and it keeps the heart racing from beginning to end.
July 31, 2017
Liked this book.
Enjoyable, suspenseful, intriguing, interesting read.
The military jargon was a lil bit tough to understand.... I guess I shoulda paid more attention when my dad spoke of his Marine days (he's retired now). LOL.
All-in-all a great read.
Cant wait to check out the rest of the series & of Dewey's story....
Received as a Gr giveaway.
Enjoyable, suspenseful, intriguing, interesting read.
The military jargon was a lil bit tough to understand.... I guess I shoulda paid more attention when my dad spoke of his Marine days (he's retired now). LOL.
All-in-all a great read.
Cant wait to check out the rest of the series & of Dewey's story....
Received as a Gr giveaway.
December 17, 2021
Once again, suspension of disbelief was necessary. It was still one of the best Dewey episodes
July 10, 2017
Love me some Dewey........ Always!
October 4, 2017
Another great political thriller from Ben Coes. The Dewey Andreas series is very well written page turning action and this one is no exception. This compares well to Brad Thor and Dale Brown. Looking forward to the next installment.
May 2, 2018
Ben Coe's has really outdone himself with Trap the Devil. This the 7th entry in the Dewey Andreas series shows how the modern thriller should be. I didn't think That Coe's could top 2016's First Strike, but somehow he did.
I have a confession to make. It took me awhile to even try the first book in the series, Power Down. I just couldn't see how power plants and terrorism could hold my interest, but my gosh was it good. I attribute this to the skill of Coe's in formulating scarily plausible scenarios for his hero to navigate and at the same time grow his character. Dewey has grown with each book and in Trap the Devil staggering revelations present themselves to Dewey and we see a peek into his soul. Very sobering stuff.
In Trap the Devil, Coe's presents the frightening possibility of people in the government taking matters into their own hands to stem the rise of terror from the Muslim world who would seek to destroy us. Even to the point of killing their own colleagues in our government and targeting even the President to accomplish their agenda.
Coes is a master of building tension and fleshing out his characters so much so that at times I had to put the book down because I was afraid of what was going to happen next. I am not a big fan of spoilers. I would prefer that you be surprised on your own.
Suffice it to say that Trap the Devil, after a brief prologue that sets the stage of events from 20 years before, starts with a physically and emotionally damaged Dewey. Forced to see a shrink by his boss Hector Calibrisi, Dewey learns that he might be relegated to a softer agency roll. Far from something that Dewey wants or needs, he is seen as one almost driven to kill himself in the line of duty, always putting himself on the line. Guilt is eating away at him for not only the death of his fiance, Jessica, but also his wife Holly from many years before.
Basically relegated to babysitting the Sec State on a trip to Paris, Dewey is not happy and fueling up on alcohol and self pity. Until something happens to begin a rollercoaster ride that doesn't end until the last page.
Don't be like me.. Pick up Power Down, discover Dewey and be prepared to have a great summer!
I have a confession to make. It took me awhile to even try the first book in the series, Power Down. I just couldn't see how power plants and terrorism could hold my interest, but my gosh was it good. I attribute this to the skill of Coe's in formulating scarily plausible scenarios for his hero to navigate and at the same time grow his character. Dewey has grown with each book and in Trap the Devil staggering revelations present themselves to Dewey and we see a peek into his soul. Very sobering stuff.
In Trap the Devil, Coe's presents the frightening possibility of people in the government taking matters into their own hands to stem the rise of terror from the Muslim world who would seek to destroy us. Even to the point of killing their own colleagues in our government and targeting even the President to accomplish their agenda.
Coes is a master of building tension and fleshing out his characters so much so that at times I had to put the book down because I was afraid of what was going to happen next. I am not a big fan of spoilers. I would prefer that you be surprised on your own.
Suffice it to say that Trap the Devil, after a brief prologue that sets the stage of events from 20 years before, starts with a physically and emotionally damaged Dewey. Forced to see a shrink by his boss Hector Calibrisi, Dewey learns that he might be relegated to a softer agency roll. Far from something that Dewey wants or needs, he is seen as one almost driven to kill himself in the line of duty, always putting himself on the line. Guilt is eating away at him for not only the death of his fiance, Jessica, but also his wife Holly from many years before.
Basically relegated to babysitting the Sec State on a trip to Paris, Dewey is not happy and fueling up on alcohol and self pity. Until something happens to begin a rollercoaster ride that doesn't end until the last page.
Don't be like me.. Pick up Power Down, discover Dewey and be prepared to have a great summer!
August 16, 2018
i used to really love this series, but switching to the hardbacks from audio books has made a huge difference in the experience. the narration was always really entertaining, but when i was reading this one, i thought that maybe the writing and storytelling wasn't as strong as i thought it was when i had listened to the others.
my favorite aspect of the dewey books is that there are a lot of moving parts, and while dewey is most certainly the protagonist, he has a lot of help from other parties.
so basically, this was a fun read, there were a few scenes that were super visual and entertaining to read, but i didn't like it as much as the other ones in the series because the plot was too grand in scope to be contained in one book. if this particular plot line was something that ben coes has been laying the foundations of for the past 6 books, i feel like there would have been a much better payoff, but as it stands the ending felt very anti-climatic compared to the rest of the book. i was simply left with an overwhelming sense of ... blah.
my favorite aspect of the dewey books is that there are a lot of moving parts, and while dewey is most certainly the protagonist, he has a lot of help from other parties.
so basically, this was a fun read, there were a few scenes that were super visual and entertaining to read, but i didn't like it as much as the other ones in the series because the plot was too grand in scope to be contained in one book. if this particular plot line was something that ben coes has been laying the foundations of for the past 6 books, i feel like there would have been a much better payoff, but as it stands the ending felt very anti-climatic compared to the rest of the book. i was simply left with an overwhelming sense of ... blah.
June 26, 2017
Oy! This series has fallen apart. Too much of everything including a plot to take over the US government via multiple assassinations in order to nuke all Muslims. The usual Nat Security thriller problem of too much description of technical details and armaments. Superhuman hero. Assorted psychos. Completely implausible action including a fight on top of a French express train - in a blizzard! Am tired of people immediately recovering from savage beatings let alone shootings. Yet the thing that bugged me the most was that one of the several false climaxes occurs at Fed Ex field as the president announces his reelection campaign to a crowd of 100k complete with Air Force flyovers. C'mon. No sense of how politics and Washington actually works. . . .(Also it's unfortunate that one of the bad guys/traitors is a congressman from Oklahoma named Largent. If I was former congressman from Oklahoma Steve Largent I'd be pissed.)
June 22, 2023
Book Review - Trap the Devil - Ben Coes
This is one of those books that I highly recommend you both read and listen to on audiobook. Right from the beginning the story takes off full speed and the action and suspense do not stop until the end. A suicide bomber causes a grieving antagonist to set things right by wiping out Muslim people. His strategy is so convoluted it includes killing the president and VP of the United States. I loved every moment in this book. Classic Ben Coes plot and endless action mixed with strong character development makes this a great espionage novel. I have read the entire Dewey Andreas series before but find this second reading of “Trap the Devil” much more better. Richer, more vivid details provoked my imagination this time and made me feel like I was experiencing everything myself. This book has my highest recommendation and I celebrate Ben Coes as being one of my favorite action thriller authors...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2018
When going into this book, I thought,"It's impossible to top First Strike," Coes' hit thriller last year. Not only does he top it, he has created one of the best thrillers this year. I think Coes and Andreas have now surpassed Thor and Harvath. In this story, you get an inward look into Andreas' life. Chapters ended with me having goosebumps. It's a thriller jam packed with action, drama, excitment, and ANDREAS. Amazing book!!! Buy it immediately! I finished it in less then 24 hours. Couldn't put it down!
October 14, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Only one man stands between a powerful cabal planning an invisible coup of the U.S. government and their brutal goals—Dewey Andreas.
A group of some of the most powerful people in the government, the military, and the private sector, has begun a brutal plan to quietly take over the reins of the U.S. government. They’ve begun to remove the people who stand in their way—and replace them with their own sympathizers and puppets. They’ve already taken out the Speaker of the House—whose death was made to look like an accidental drowning—and the president and vice president are next. Once they have their own people in place, they plan to start a bloody, brutal war on an unimaginable scale.
On restricted duty while he recovers from injuries incurred on a previous mission, Dewey Andreas is sent to Paris by CIA Director Hector Calibrisi. The Secretary of State is going there for secret talks, and Dewey is to be an extra layer of security above the State Department team. But what should be an easy mission couldn’t go more wrong. The cabal has sent in a hit man to take out the Secretary of State and lay the blame for this murder at the feet of Dewey himself.
With the Secretary of State dead, shot by Dewey’s weapon, Dewey is on the run and out in the cold, desperately trying to unravel the plot before the conspirators succeed in killing millions of innocents.
This is the 7th book in the Dewey Andreas series. I haven't read any of the previous instalments but that will be changing soon enough.
Multiple, complex plots are a bit of a favourite of mine. Throw in some politics, current events and a "hero" that brings all of it together and you have a winning formula. At times, I felt like I was reading a Jason Bourne novel - the action sequences are quite breathtaking - at other times, I thought the political intrigue was straight from the Tom Clancy "Novels 101" handbook...
...but Ben Coes does it better than both.
And part of the beauty of this book, and what makes Dewey such an impactful character, is that the entire novel doesn't revolve around Dewey. He comes into the story when necessary, allowing more scope for the author to expand on the goings-on around the world. This feels more realistic to me than being stuck in the head of the hero the whole time. Things happen around him. He gets injured a few times. He isn't perfect...but he is such a great character that I need to read more - and is there any higher praise than that?
Paul
ARH
Only one man stands between a powerful cabal planning an invisible coup of the U.S. government and their brutal goals—Dewey Andreas.
A group of some of the most powerful people in the government, the military, and the private sector, has begun a brutal plan to quietly take over the reins of the U.S. government. They’ve begun to remove the people who stand in their way—and replace them with their own sympathizers and puppets. They’ve already taken out the Speaker of the House—whose death was made to look like an accidental drowning—and the president and vice president are next. Once they have their own people in place, they plan to start a bloody, brutal war on an unimaginable scale.
On restricted duty while he recovers from injuries incurred on a previous mission, Dewey Andreas is sent to Paris by CIA Director Hector Calibrisi. The Secretary of State is going there for secret talks, and Dewey is to be an extra layer of security above the State Department team. But what should be an easy mission couldn’t go more wrong. The cabal has sent in a hit man to take out the Secretary of State and lay the blame for this murder at the feet of Dewey himself.
With the Secretary of State dead, shot by Dewey’s weapon, Dewey is on the run and out in the cold, desperately trying to unravel the plot before the conspirators succeed in killing millions of innocents.
This is the 7th book in the Dewey Andreas series. I haven't read any of the previous instalments but that will be changing soon enough.
Multiple, complex plots are a bit of a favourite of mine. Throw in some politics, current events and a "hero" that brings all of it together and you have a winning formula. At times, I felt like I was reading a Jason Bourne novel - the action sequences are quite breathtaking - at other times, I thought the political intrigue was straight from the Tom Clancy "Novels 101" handbook...
...but Ben Coes does it better than both.
And part of the beauty of this book, and what makes Dewey such an impactful character, is that the entire novel doesn't revolve around Dewey. He comes into the story when necessary, allowing more scope for the author to expand on the goings-on around the world. This feels more realistic to me than being stuck in the head of the hero the whole time. Things happen around him. He gets injured a few times. He isn't perfect...but he is such a great character that I need to read more - and is there any higher praise than that?
Paul
ARH
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