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James Ryker #5
The White Scorpion
Rule number one for an agent of the secretive JIA is to follow orders, no matter what. But James Ryker has never cared much for rules. He only wants to do what is right. Assigned to join of crew of elite security personnel in Chabon, Africa, Ryker’s mission objective is clouded by politics and obfuscation, and he knows only that to protect British interests in the region, he is to infiltrate the close protection team of the government of Chabon, a country with a dark and violent past. Arriving in Chabon’s crumbling capital, Kilpassa, Ryker finds a country on the brink of civil war. A growing civilian rebellion threatens peace, with claims of atrocities committed by both sides, including the frail government run by enigmatic President Benyu - a former military general who took control of the country in a violent coup. Drawn into Benyu’s inner circle, it soon becomes clear to Ryker that in Chabon, the lines between good and bad, and right and wrong, are nearly impossible to identify. With a crisis of epic proportions unfolding before his eyes, Ryker knows one thing for with or without the backing of his superiors, he must take drastic action, and quickly, or risk putting millions of innocent lives in danger. The Red Cobra The Black Hornet The Silver Wolf The Green Viper
346 pages, Paperback
Published July 11, 2019
495 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Rob Sinclair
34 books683 followersRob is the author of the critically acclaimed and bestselling Enemy series and James Ryker series of espionage thrillers. His books have sold over half a million copies to date with many reviewers and readers having likened Rob's work to authors at the very top of the genre, including Lee Child and Vince Flynn.
Rob began writing in 2009 following a promise to his wife, an avid reader, that he could pen a ‘can’t put down’ thriller. He worked for nearly 13 years for a global accounting firm after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2002, specialising in forensic fraud investigations at both national and international levels. Rob now writes full time.
Originally from the North East of England, Rob has lived and worked in a number of fast paced cities and is now based near Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, sons and dog
Rob began writing in 2009 following a promise to his wife, an avid reader, that he could pen a ‘can’t put down’ thriller. He worked for nearly 13 years for a global accounting firm after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2002, specialising in forensic fraud investigations at both national and international levels. Rob now writes full time.
Originally from the North East of England, Rob has lived and worked in a number of fast paced cities and is now based near Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, sons and dog
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 16, 2019
3.5 Stars
James Ryker is undercover and assigned to a group of security people in order to help prevent a growing civil war.
Everything is down to politics, corruption, on both sides. Despite being told to follow orders exactly, Ryder will have to take drastic action without the sanction of the higher ups.
This is 5th in a series featuring James Ryker, an unorthodox character who have the reader gasping as he maneuvers through what seems to be the impossible. Action-filled, the suspense is nicely paced leading to a nail-biting conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books . I received a digital copy of this crime fiction at no charge and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
James Ryker is undercover and assigned to a group of security people in order to help prevent a growing civil war.
Everything is down to politics, corruption, on both sides. Despite being told to follow orders exactly, Ryder will have to take drastic action without the sanction of the higher ups.
This is 5th in a series featuring James Ryker, an unorthodox character who have the reader gasping as he maneuvers through what seems to be the impossible. Action-filled, the suspense is nicely paced leading to a nail-biting conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books . I received a digital copy of this crime fiction at no charge and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 18, 2019
The White Scorpion is the fifth thriller in the downright compulsive James Ryker series, and although each of the instalments read perfectly well on their own if so desired — I would certainly recommend working through them chronologically as they're are worth your time but it's not essential. Here, we are reacquainted with main protagonist, James, who's hot on the heels of a currently still unidentifiable group who think nothing of betraying, deceiving and covering up their immoral actions. They appear to be well versed in the gruesome and often brutal techniques they are utilising against their enemies and James must find a way to stop and expose them. Power corrupts and this story is abundant with those willing to sacrifice their integrity to get what they want. No matter how many toes they step on in the process.
Full of intense action, twisty surprises and reveals we are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotion, clandestine activities and tonnes of suspense. It's a quick, easy read that is perfect for the summer; great to read in the garden sunshine or on holiday. Unlike some thrillers, Sinclair manages to be creative with the story and this kept me interested. If you enjoy books that begin with a bang and start as they mean to go on then this is an excellent choice. It's best described as a spy thriller crossed with a police procedural and revolves around corruption and dark secrets that run deep into the highest echelons of Chabon's elite in society. Highly entertaining and unequivocally recommended. Many thanks to Bloodhound Books for an ARC.
Full of intense action, twisty surprises and reveals we are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotion, clandestine activities and tonnes of suspense. It's a quick, easy read that is perfect for the summer; great to read in the garden sunshine or on holiday. Unlike some thrillers, Sinclair manages to be creative with the story and this kept me interested. If you enjoy books that begin with a bang and start as they mean to go on then this is an excellent choice. It's best described as a spy thriller crossed with a police procedural and revolves around corruption and dark secrets that run deep into the highest echelons of Chabon's elite in society. Highly entertaining and unequivocally recommended. Many thanks to Bloodhound Books for an ARC.
July 30, 2019
James Ryker is once again working for the Joint Intelligence Agency. His under cover assignment is to join three other operatives, a team Peter Winter has put together, in order to form a security detail tasked with protecting the British interests and maintaining the delicate balance of peace in Chabon, an African country on the verge of civil war, where violence is commonplace.
The group’s main objective is to provide protection for President Benyu from the leader of the opposition, Chima Muampa and his army of rebels, until the upcoming election. Benyu took control by force and both leaders think nothing of brutality if they feel it necessary, each having their own underlying agendas. Ryker and the team are met with corruption, underhand tactics and a lack of truthful information. It’s not clear who is trustworthy or honest and lives are on the line in what turns out to be a very volatile situation.
Initially we’re taken back to the weeks leading up to the shocker of a prologue, as the team are put through a couple of weeks of gruelling training before being transported to Kilpassa, the capital of Chabon, where there’s an escalating feeling of impending danger. This is a case of power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely—any sense of morality is lacking in certain individuals.
This is my favourite of the James Ryker stories so far. There’s lots of well paced but not overwhelming action and some unexpected twists. Rob Sinclair has created tension running through an unpredictable and well devised plot, along with a realistic take on the political landscape and has instilled interest and a need to keep reading to find out what happens. The hostile environment is captured extremely well and adds a layer of mystery and darkness to the story.
Ryker has developed into a character who you’d definitely want to have in your corner— he’s highly skilled, reliable and with a good moral compass. I enjoyed the interaction and banter between him and Moreno. He’s suffered in so many ways, I wonder if there’s a glimmer of something good coming his way. I hope so.
I chose to read and review The White Scorpion based an a digital copy kindle supplied by the author.
The group’s main objective is to provide protection for President Benyu from the leader of the opposition, Chima Muampa and his army of rebels, until the upcoming election. Benyu took control by force and both leaders think nothing of brutality if they feel it necessary, each having their own underlying agendas. Ryker and the team are met with corruption, underhand tactics and a lack of truthful information. It’s not clear who is trustworthy or honest and lives are on the line in what turns out to be a very volatile situation.
Initially we’re taken back to the weeks leading up to the shocker of a prologue, as the team are put through a couple of weeks of gruelling training before being transported to Kilpassa, the capital of Chabon, where there’s an escalating feeling of impending danger. This is a case of power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely—any sense of morality is lacking in certain individuals.
This is my favourite of the James Ryker stories so far. There’s lots of well paced but not overwhelming action and some unexpected twists. Rob Sinclair has created tension running through an unpredictable and well devised plot, along with a realistic take on the political landscape and has instilled interest and a need to keep reading to find out what happens. The hostile environment is captured extremely well and adds a layer of mystery and darkness to the story.
Ryker has developed into a character who you’d definitely want to have in your corner— he’s highly skilled, reliable and with a good moral compass. I enjoyed the interaction and banter between him and Moreno. He’s suffered in so many ways, I wonder if there’s a glimmer of something good coming his way. I hope so.
I chose to read and review The White Scorpion based an a digital copy kindle supplied by the author.
July 18, 2019
James Ryker is back! If ever I wanted anyone in my corner James Ryker is the man. A great plot set in Africa, involving a country's leaders. As the plot deepens Ryker and fellow undercover crew go into action. Undercover once again with a mission that is surrounded by lies, secrets, deceit and betrayals. Had to stop for breath many times In this fast paced action thriller that doesn't let up from start to finish. This is a must read action thriller series.
March 11, 2021
This might be my favorite to date of the James Ryker series!
July 22, 2019
Ryker is back and, OH MY, this is most certainly another thrilling ride of a read. The White Scorpion is book five in the James Ryker series and is every bit as compelling, if not more so, as the first four books in the series.
Ryker is working for Winter again and finds himself on a mission in Africa with an elite team. The prologue is extremely hard hitting and certainly grabbed my attention. I liked how chapter one then started ‘Three weeks previously’. The action pretty much never stops from the then on, literally to the last sentence!
I have to say that this book particularly reminded me of a TV show we watch called Seal Team. This makes me even more certain that these books would make an awesome series. I know I keep saying it, but I really think it needs to happen!
Brilliantly written, as I’ve come to expect from Rob Sinclair. His books never disappoint. I would be very surprised if I didn’t love a book he had written, and he is most definitely an author I would pre-order any future releases without needing to read the blurb!
I know there are many other Ryker fans out there already, but if you have yet to be introduced to him then I highly recommend you give this series a go. I very much doubt you’ll be disappointed. I for one can’t wait for book six!
Many thanks to Rob Sinclair for my review copy.
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2019/07/2...
Ryker is working for Winter again and finds himself on a mission in Africa with an elite team. The prologue is extremely hard hitting and certainly grabbed my attention. I liked how chapter one then started ‘Three weeks previously’. The action pretty much never stops from the then on, literally to the last sentence!
I have to say that this book particularly reminded me of a TV show we watch called Seal Team. This makes me even more certain that these books would make an awesome series. I know I keep saying it, but I really think it needs to happen!
Brilliantly written, as I’ve come to expect from Rob Sinclair. His books never disappoint. I would be very surprised if I didn’t love a book he had written, and he is most definitely an author I would pre-order any future releases without needing to read the blurb!
I know there are many other Ryker fans out there already, but if you have yet to be introduced to him then I highly recommend you give this series a go. I very much doubt you’ll be disappointed. I for one can’t wait for book six!
Many thanks to Rob Sinclair for my review copy.
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2019/07/2...
July 8, 2019
Action doesn't let up from page 1 to the last.
Wow what a book. Opens with a bang, and doesn't let up. Starts off with the massacre of a whole bunch of people, of course Ryker survives, as he's the main character! The story then travels back in time to find out what happened to get to that point.
The story is based around a city called Chabon in Africa. There is help needed for the current leader, as a new party are trying to overthrow it. However it is thought there may be more at play there
So begins a deep investigation where you don't know who you can trust, even the others in Rykers team. All are ex military or secret operatives.
There is a lot going on, a lot of people involved, but I personally found it impossible to figure out the truth and was surprised at the end.
A great 5th outing for Ryker, and I really look forward to any further books.
Wow what a book. Opens with a bang, and doesn't let up. Starts off with the massacre of a whole bunch of people, of course Ryker survives, as he's the main character! The story then travels back in time to find out what happened to get to that point.
The story is based around a city called Chabon in Africa. There is help needed for the current leader, as a new party are trying to overthrow it. However it is thought there may be more at play there
So begins a deep investigation where you don't know who you can trust, even the others in Rykers team. All are ex military or secret operatives.
There is a lot going on, a lot of people involved, but I personally found it impossible to figure out the truth and was surprised at the end.
A great 5th outing for Ryker, and I really look forward to any further books.
February 8, 2020
Not up to par with the other books of the series, but entertaining at times.
August 4, 2024
The name is Ryker. James Ryker. Well, not really but that's the nom de plume he goes by now.
He's back taking orders from Winter at the JIA but he's still inclined to go AWOL when the need arises. This time he's working undercover in Africa with a small team trying to figure out if the guy they are protecting is worth the effort or just another crooked warlord making money from the oppression of his own people.
The book begins with a bang and then we are right into the thick of the action. We do get to see some of the story that led James to Africa and we get to meet the big personalities that are part of his team. James doesn't usually play well with others but maybe this time things will be different!
Geopolitics, corruption and covert agencies are running amok! The story fair zips along but I didn't feel I lost the thread of the story at any time. I loved meeting Sam - she is a complete bada$$, male or female spy doesn't come into it! There are plenty of twists and you're never quite sure who is on James' side. Chabon will not be on my bucket list to visit any time soon, lol!
He's back taking orders from Winter at the JIA but he's still inclined to go AWOL when the need arises. This time he's working undercover in Africa with a small team trying to figure out if the guy they are protecting is worth the effort or just another crooked warlord making money from the oppression of his own people.
The book begins with a bang and then we are right into the thick of the action. We do get to see some of the story that led James to Africa and we get to meet the big personalities that are part of his team. James doesn't usually play well with others but maybe this time things will be different!
Geopolitics, corruption and covert agencies are running amok! The story fair zips along but I didn't feel I lost the thread of the story at any time. I loved meeting Sam - she is a complete bada$$, male or female spy doesn't come into it! There are plenty of twists and you're never quite sure who is on James' side. Chabon will not be on my bucket list to visit any time soon, lol!
August 3, 2024
This book took me away from the familiar territory of the previous books and landed me in a foreign land amidst the threat of a coup. It was almost impossible to imagine which way this book would turn, and I certainly wasn’t prepared for the twists that appeared.
The opening sequence sets the tone for the book. Ryker finds himself in a hostage exchange that doesn’t go according to plan and then explores what happened to lead to those moments. The pace was fast, and I could feel the urgency of the situation.
A number of characters are introduced throughout the book, but it is almost impossible to guess who would make it to the final pages. Despite some shocking sequences, I certainly didn’t have time to mourn the passing of any of the characters. I have always imagined that a coup would be brutal, but I never envisaged having a front-row seat.
Ryker’s character has evolved as a result of the pain that he has endured, and with each book, I have become more used to his new identity and no longer yearn for Logan. That speaks volumes for Sinclair’s storytelling. As I have come to expect, Rob Sinclair drove this compelling story with a firm hand. There are plenty of twists and more than a few shocks. I felt a strong affinity for one community and, despite their losses, drew comfort from hoping that their futures may be safer. Sadly, I doubt it.
The tone may have been different, but the urgency and high-octane drama were exactly what I had come to expect. Brilliant!
The opening sequence sets the tone for the book. Ryker finds himself in a hostage exchange that doesn’t go according to plan and then explores what happened to lead to those moments. The pace was fast, and I could feel the urgency of the situation.
A number of characters are introduced throughout the book, but it is almost impossible to guess who would make it to the final pages. Despite some shocking sequences, I certainly didn’t have time to mourn the passing of any of the characters. I have always imagined that a coup would be brutal, but I never envisaged having a front-row seat.
Ryker’s character has evolved as a result of the pain that he has endured, and with each book, I have become more used to his new identity and no longer yearn for Logan. That speaks volumes for Sinclair’s storytelling. As I have come to expect, Rob Sinclair drove this compelling story with a firm hand. There are plenty of twists and more than a few shocks. I felt a strong affinity for one community and, despite their losses, drew comfort from hoping that their futures may be safer. Sadly, I doubt it.
The tone may have been different, but the urgency and high-octane drama were exactly what I had come to expect. Brilliant!
April 7, 2021
James Ryker is a beast. An adrenaline junkie that lives on the edge. But he is a survivor, an animal living on instinct. He works for the good not the evil, although at times it seems hard to tell one from the other. Another superb action packed edge of your seat story. Very entertaining and I couldn't put it down. I was engrossed. The final book in the series (sigh). Luckily he's back in a new series (yeah). Book one, Renegade. Have I got it? Of course I have! Addictive reading and I'm hooked.
October 15, 2024
good read but needs editing!
I gave it five stars, because I liked the people and the action. Plus, it’s in Africa! However you are advised to skip the first chapter, read up to the point Winter is listening to coms. Then read all of chapter one and finish the rest. I’ll bet the author wrote it my way but some dummy convinced him the big action had to come early. Please trust readers to have patience to let the story of the first three weeks unfold naturally. Even as is, it’s a fun read. Enjoy.
I gave it five stars, because I liked the people and the action. Plus, it’s in Africa! However you are advised to skip the first chapter, read up to the point Winter is listening to coms. Then read all of chapter one and finish the rest. I’ll bet the author wrote it my way but some dummy convinced him the big action had to come early. Please trust readers to have patience to let the story of the first three weeks unfold naturally. Even as is, it’s a fun read. Enjoy.
July 28, 2022
Gripping storyline.
Sent on a mission with a new team Ryker has to safeguard a tyrant that is conspiring with a member of the British government to kill him and his team.
But they didn't know that Ryker would find out what they were planning and put a stop to it, unfortunately two members of the team were killed before Ryker put the pieces together and ultimately brought justice to the guilty parties.
Sent on a mission with a new team Ryker has to safeguard a tyrant that is conspiring with a member of the British government to kill him and his team.
But they didn't know that Ryker would find out what they were planning and put a stop to it, unfortunately two members of the team were killed before Ryker put the pieces together and ultimately brought justice to the guilty parties.
April 14, 2020
28-2020. I think I’m reading too many similar books in a row. Our hero leads a paramilitary/spy team into a fictional African country to fix something. And he does, after a fashion. Lots of concussions that seem to have no lasting effect. Many stab wounds or shrapnel incursions that leave our man still ready to fight. Unbelievability scale is pretty high. I believe I’m done with this series.
September 29, 2020
This was the fifth book I have read in this series. Each one is a great read in it’s own right. Every book is so hard to put down. I very much look forward and hope to see the publication of the next book. A big thank you to the author, Rob Sinclair and from me another well deserved 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 28, 2020
Another action packed read
Read all the James Ryker books and don't think I have been disappointed by any of them. Relentless from start to finish. Hoping the author is writing some more. If you have enjoyed the others in the series then this is a must
Read all the James Ryker books and don't think I have been disappointed by any of them. Relentless from start to finish. Hoping the author is writing some more. If you have enjoyed the others in the series then this is a must
March 20, 2021
White Scorpion
James Tyler finds himself involved in a civil war in Africa, He also meets a beautiful girl who is his equal. Will they fall in love or just admire each other all this plus some good twists and turns give it a pretty good story.
James Tyler finds himself involved in a civil war in Africa, He also meets a beautiful girl who is his equal. Will they fall in love or just admire each other all this plus some good twists and turns give it a pretty good story.
October 6, 2022
Another great story
The James Ryker series is truly great reading. The author keeps you moving through the pages with terrific action and adventure yet keeps you guessing as to what is happening next. Great stuff.
The James Ryker series is truly great reading. The author keeps you moving through the pages with terrific action and adventure yet keeps you guessing as to what is happening next. Great stuff.
September 8, 2023
Latest In A Good Series
I enjoyed this, the latest in the James Ryker series, immensely. Fast paced, good characters easy to read.
Can be read as part of the series or alone, you’ll enjoy it.
I enjoyed this, the latest in the James Ryker series, immensely. Fast paced, good characters easy to read.
Can be read as part of the series or alone, you’ll enjoy it.
August 24, 2020
Not quite as good as the others in the series.
October 27, 2020
Deadly and accurate
Another suspenseful book. Very difficult book to put down until your finished. I felt character James Riker was very believable.
Another suspenseful book. Very difficult book to put down until your finished. I felt character James Riker was very believable.
December 24, 2020
Great addition to the series.
One of the best books I've read in a long time. The story was impressive from beginning to end. I definitely recommend.
One of the best books I've read in a long time. The story was impressive from beginning to end. I definitely recommend.
January 5, 2021
This was a fun read.
February 10, 2021
Another great, thrilling spy story - well done Rob, I so enjoyed the book.
July 8, 2021
Hmmm
Sadly (spoiler alert) I have never liked books that start and then once you’re into it say, “three weeks earlier)
Sadly (spoiler alert) I have never liked books that start and then once you’re into it say, “three weeks earlier)
September 14, 2021
Excellent book!
This book is an excellent read! Sinclair's Ryker is amazing!! I cannot wait for the next book! Keep on reading!
This book is an excellent read! Sinclair's Ryker is amazing!! I cannot wait for the next book! Keep on reading!
September 27, 2021
Another splendid book in the Ryker series from Rob Sinclair.
July 8, 2022
Outstanding
Could not put this down, such a rollercoaster as always....into the next immediately, highly recommend this series and author 👌
Could not put this down, such a rollercoaster as always....into the next immediately, highly recommend this series and author 👌
July 21, 2022
Ryker is always amazing
A little different twist but still a great story. Ryker finds his match, she is a doll and just as tough. Lots of plots and subplots, always a great read.
A little different twist but still a great story. Ryker finds his match, she is a doll and just as tough. Lots of plots and subplots, always a great read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews