Latvian Border Region A policewoman finds something terrifying. Deep in the forests along the border, there is proof of a massive Russian invasion plan.
US Embassy, Berlin Someone is trying desperately to get a message to the CIA. But Kremlin assassins have been activated across three countries to stop them.
New York, USA A Kremlin sleeper agent is activated with very precise instructions.
The Kremlin has set its plan in motion. Its goal is nothing short of the reestablishment of the USSR, and it is willing to risk World War Three in the process. There is only one man who can stop it. But this mission could cost him his life.
Saul Herzog is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. This book in the Lance Spector series really developed a lot of new aspects to the characters and storyline that goes beyond what I’ve found in the previous installments. Lots of unexpected events, twists and turns that keep you hooked, and some very relevant parallels to current political climate with respect to US/Russia tension.
Interesting read. Lots of turns. Lots of twists. Many unpredictable move. Enjoy the series very much. Will recommend Saul to all my Spy thriller friends.
As usual Saul Herzog created a story line that completely entranced me as a reader. Even more so his research and historical mentions in the book are so important. Not only in the sense of creating a gripping story, but reminding the reader that many of the events of the past mentioned did in fact take place. An important point in this fiction series, that if we don’t learn from the events of the past we will be doomed to repeat. Character development from book 1 to 3 has been brilliant, I cannot wait to start book 4. If you pay close enough attention to characters, their names, and events there are some truly great ‘Easter eggs’ throughout the entire series.
Book 3 of the Lance Spector series begins right where book 2 left off. It continues the story of the growing hostilities between Russia and the USA, the Russian presidents fanatical desire to recapture the glory days of the Soviet Union, and Lance Spector's role in the proceedings. As with the previous books, Lance Spector rarely makes an appearance at all through the first third of the book, which is spent detailing Russia's nefarious plans and setting up the inevitable confrontation between Russian and American forces. The author seems to have a very realistic take on the US through the eyes of our adversaries which, given the similarities with the Russian invasion of Latvia in the book and the very real buildup to possible invasion along the border with Ukraine, is more than a little disquieting. The book also introduces the reader to some truly disgusting and stomach-turning culinary delicacies, as well as a scene of inhumane and barbaric torture perpetrated upon innocent and friendly dogs, none of which is for the faint-hearted. I hated this book for one main reason. SPOILER ALERT**...
When our hero, Lance Spector shuffles off the mortal coil, which he DID!! He died. There was no way out, no other scenario. He died to save the world from nuclear destruction. He sacrificed himself for the good of mankind. But then...the author...who I am sure only meant this series to be a trilogy, thought...wait, I'm on a gravy train here...let me think of a way to continue this series. What he did was devise a completely nonsensical scenario where Lance survives. At that moment, all I could think of was NO. No, no-no. If, as a reader, you want a childlike good guy who always wins...read on. If, on the other hand, you are intelligent enough to want more than B-movie pablum, then please move on, as I have from this nonsensical illogical drivel.
This was an amazing story. It feels close to what is happening in Ukraine. Sadly, as my life draws toward the end I do feel as if we humans are perhaps less than animals and we never seem to learn from the past. The past few years of hate and anger in the US has left me feeling a lot of trepidation for my grandchildren. This book also clarifies the fact that we in America do not know what real suffering is about. I guess this isn't so much about the story as much as the messages inside.
I know that I shouldn’t be reading Lance Spector books if I’m looking for realism…but the timeframes in these are books are almost laughably unrealistic. Within the bounds of the world created by Herzog, so much of this is impossible. I’m not even sure if the time crunches would be surmountable in Science Fiction! It’s amateurish, but it’s a free read! The first two books were slightly better but just average, I’m not sure if I will read the next.
I've read the first three and am enjoying this series by Saul Herzog. This installment was more grizzly than the first 2 and I literally skipped over a few paragraphs (the dog thing) when I realized what was coming. The parallels with what is happening now in the Ukraine is eerie. Mr. Herzog seems to have a clearer view than most of the politics and actions between Russia and USA. But that aside, he just writes a damn good, engaging spy thriller.
I started this series after seeing it on KU and finished all five published books. It would seem there are two yet left to publish. The story in and of itself is very ripped from the headlines with enough research done to give characters a backstory. I don’t dislike the writing style and despite the jump from storyline to storyline within each book…it actually works. This isn’t a bad series. It’s actually quite interesting and quick reading. The problem lies with the author’s decidedly negative view of women. They exist in this author’s mind as either whores or mothers regardless of their accomplishments or rank within the organization they work within. All dialog and descriptions are of women who are seen by the author as nothing more than plot devises of his belief that women are only good for reproduction or bed partners. Even the “good” female characters who exist to work toward justice are given unlikable attributes and attitudes which severely limit the audience. As a devotee of Lee Child, David Baldacci, Vince Flynn and other authors of this genre, which is widely read by women, I spent the majority of the time rage reading this series as a result of the author’s choice to depict women as catty, petty incompetents. To be honest, there are zero likable characters in the series and the author’s keen ability to set a tempo for the storyline with interesting history and current events is the real star of the writing. The writing is good. The topical storylines are interesting. The choice to use every female character (there are many) as a punching bag is disappointing which is why I’ve given it three stars rather than four.
I wanted to enjoy this book because the first and second books in the series were really good (more so the first was super good and the second was decent). I could never get into it because it was mostly about the Russians. It took 150-200 pages for anything interesting to happen, and then only a few chapters following had a little action. I think what I enjoy most about this series are the relationships with Laurel, Tatyana, and Lance and how, together they each have actionable events throughout the book. Although this is a bit funny after the fact because it’s somewhat of a love triangle. But this one barely has anything. The only good information to come of this book is the events happening with Lance and Clarissa (Clarisse? Idk) with her being pregnant with his baby and him delivering the kill with that knowledge. This information ultimately led to the riff between Lance and Laurel. Also why did Sam have to die?! I am annoyed with how this book ended; Roth, Laurel, and Tatyana believing Lance to be dead (who could have actually survived what he did, but then again, he always survives by some miracle) and even holding a small Arlington funeral for him. I was always rooting for Lance and Laurel to become a couple, so this is the only part I would like to read about in the next book if I were to continue on with the series-which I probably won’t.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Having just finished The Target (in one and a half days as I could barely put it down) I would like to say thank you to Mr Herzog. I have read the first three books now and am lining up to read The Sleeper…can’t wait. I cannot imagine the effort that goes into researching a book like this, but it appears that he as dedicated to doing that right as much as Lance Spector is skilled in his work. I cannot tell you how thought provoking, entertaining, chilling, and emotion grabbing this book was to read. The thought of the things written here really being out there is frightening, beyond most of our imaginations, or beyond what most would dare to think about, but he has made them very real for me. That is why I thank him for writing this book and series and taking me on a journey in my mind that made my head spin…and thankful that Lance is on our side, even if for his own very personal reasons. I cannot imagine what that kind of existence would do to the very humanity in someone. Read the whole series and dare to think beyond your imagination.
This is my 3rd Lance Spector Book written by Saul Herzog. The part of Mr Herzog’s writing I’ve enjoyed the most is the accuracy when writing about places and historical events. In fact I will become intrigued by the description of places or events and end up spending a day or more of my reading time studying and learning about places or events that existed. However the characters in the novel are fictional and have superhero personas. The author does an excellent job intertwining history, places and fiction. The action is wild, there is never a dull moment and so far I’m just unable to put them down. So on to book 4! If you enjoy the style of novels I’m describing, I encourage you to read the Lance Spector Thriller Series.
Another piece of nonsensical bullshit is that the CIA has always had a SAC/SAD/SOG. Someone may be influential but the way this is talked about is almost like a false-equivalency to Mossad. Girl. No.
Jesus Christ bitch. If you are a soldier for a great goddamn nation, then shut the fuck up, stop bitching, and be the best soldier you can be.
Laurel should die. That's all I have to say about that stupid bitch.
Why are you making everyone hate your main American characters? Jesus Christ they are duuuuuuuumb. Emotionally trashy messes. Absolute fucking idiots.
You sent an operative in without any goddamn backup? Why are you writing?
Who taught you to write? This is hot garbage! The drama at the end? Oh my God! Where the hell did this bullshit cockamamie love story come from?
The Target (Book 3 of the Lance Spector Thriller series by Saul Herzog) plunges readers into a high-stakes geopolitical crisis as evidence emerges of a looming Russian invasion deep in the forests along the Latvian border, discovered by a terrified local policewoman. As chaos spreads, desperate attempts are made in Berlin to relay critical intelligence to the CIA while Kremlin assassins hunt across multiple countries to silence key players, and a sleeper agent in New York is activated with deadly orders. With Russia’s leadership intent on reestablishing the USSR and willing to risk World War III, only seasoned operative Lance Spector stands between global catastrophe and nuclear war, embarking on a perilous mission that may cost him his life.
Another great book in the series, but I can't believe Saul killed off some of those good characters! But if it wasn't such a great book, it wouldn't bother me so much! And I will share this also. I am a working guy and pretty thrifty by nature. Usually if I am reading a book in a series and really like it, I will put the next one on my to read list, and wait for a chance to buy it on sale or download it from the library. But not this series - I finish a Lance Spector book, I buy the next one in both Kindle and Audible immediately because I just can't wait. I am going to be seriously bummed when I finish the last one!
Three people each motivated deep within by 4 very different motivating factors… Laurel, Tatyana, Lance and Roth. Now each one inextricably joined together by fate to do whatever it would take to fulfill their motivations and live with some sense of dignity and inner peace. This story involves some of the cruelest thing man can do to another human being. I would not have been able to continue it except that it contained so much truth. I’m glad I finished it and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in these 4 lives that are joined together.
finished yesterday 7th october 2021 good read four stars really liked it kindle owned the price was right...or wait now, maybe i thought it was two dollars too much. i want my two dollars! used to have to chase down a late payment, wages for the week, walking about 15 miles to deliver the news. so...am reading these 1-2-3 as the song has it and i suggest you do the same maybe it wouldn't be the end of the world to come in at say, #10...is there a number ten? and go forward and backward have done that one other series. series. no really, series. smoke em if you got em. no pants.
Another political, personal, spy thriller that reminds us Russia will never be our ally…Even in Literature they can not imagine Democracy or Freedom to our extent…we need to be be deeply grateful, thankful for all we have been secure in having..lThis compelling read will perhaps strengthen or question your beliefs on WWIII and Russia and life in general. Lance Spector and a small team restore your faith a bit and let you see the world from another view. Can’t wait to finish each book in the series so that I can learn the NEXT Mission…
The first 188 pages took me several weeks to read, hence only 4 stars. Numerous times I considered giving up on this book but I really hate not finishing what I start. Having said that, once things really kicked into gear it was a marathon read of 5.5 hrs to finish the 410 pages left. This author is very good at explaining his thoughts on why there may never be an end to hostilities with the Russians and why we as Americans can't understand why the Russians can't stop being so aggressive.
Saul is quickly becoming one of my favorite political intrigue writers. “Lance” is on par with “Scott Harvath “ and “Gabriel Allon” as far as I’m concerned! Unfortunately in our current postage for world politics Saul’s Russian leader and his invasion of Latvia feel unnervingly close to our reality. As world governments become more authoritarian and conservative and oligarchs gain powers , these books feel prescient at times! Let’s hope common sense and compassion prevail!
The plot was good, held my interest and kept me on the edge of my seat. I’ve read 3 of this authors books now, can’t wait to read another. The protagonist was a little mysterious, but that leaves things to discover in future episodes. Most similar books have some realistic parts to them and the one thing this book brought out. Was the tenuous relationship between Russia and the US among other countries, and nuclear weapons. You don’t hear much about that recently, but the presence is there as it is in this book.
“The Target” is On Target. I was turned on to the author Saul Herzog by my Kindle app as a free book to borrow. It turns out, I am reading the whole series as fast as I can. The protagonist, Lance Spector (such a silly name) is last line of defense for the USA. He is a secret weapon. While there is some fantasy in Mr. Herzog’s stories, they are believable enough and as I said, I can’t put the damn books down!
It looks like there are 7 of them. I’m on to book 4.
Another wonderful book in this series from Saul Herzog. As with all of the books involving Lance, these books make you think, and make you realize that the stories told in the book are, unfortunately, not all that far removed from reality. Thank you very much for the pleasure of these books have given, Mr. Herzog. I look forward to the next volume in this series.
There are those that protect the invisible lines. It is Ironic to read current news items of the US President and the Russians standing as two bulls in the pasture waiting for a blink. What is worse is the fight is over the same lands. And the satellites. This is not a pleasant book if you want to sleep soundly. It is a great novel and should leave us praying we do not bear witness.
Lots of good here, including strong characters; powerful plot; and much food for thought about the politics that shape our world currently. But the big flaw: it’s too long. The philosophical debate about how Russia will act versus how USA will act is needlessly repeated over and over. Certain scenes / dialogue should be severely edited / shortened. Instead the book drags on and on, wearing the reader out until you wish for the ending to mercifully come.
The Target (Lance Spector Book #3) by Saul Herzog.
This book sees Lance Spector tested like never before... making sacrifices for the greater good. Tension between Russian and the Us have never been higher, Lance will need to keep a level head, but sometimes it's not quite that easy to do...... things definitely take a dramatic turn, making for another action-packed espionage thriller with plenty of twists to keep things gripping.
Quite outstanding and detailed narrative, among the best I have come across. Saul Herzog is defintely the most detailed writer of the Russia vs NATO conflict. His primary character, together with those who work with him including the aversaries, are all dealt with equally interestingly. This is tremendously interesting writing and draws one right in. I was up 'later than the early hours' last night 'working' to finish it!
This was an incredible read. Fast paced, lots of action. Hard to put down. Would the ending have been better if when Lance confronted Alex, no names were given? Alex enters his apartment, the events play out and the reader KNOWS the assassin was Lance but not quite sure. And then the next book in the series, Lance resurfaces. WOW!!!! What a tease that would have been. Read the novel. IT is good.
Another amazing heart-racing, heart-wrenching read. Lots of sadness in this one. Really gets you feeling for poor old Lance. Right when you think he's finally found something, it gets ripped from him. Loved the heavy military presence in this one. Makes you almost forget about the villain in the beginning but of course that gets wrapped up nicely in the end. Great job, once again.
Anyone who reads historical fiction will love Saul Herzog novels. I wasn't aware of what the Nazis did to Warsaw, or much about the Russian Siberian railroads or how they were built. Herzog immerses the reader in the culture and mind set of the people who lived in these times while simultaneously entertaining us with a wonderful thriller fiction novel.