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Pike Logan #15
American Traitor
Pike Logan must divert two world powers from engaging in a major conflict that could ignite a war in this pulse-pounding thriller from New York Times bestselling author and former Special Forces officer Brad Taylor.
Pike Logan and Jennifer Cahill are enjoying a sunny vacation down under when they get disturbing news: their friend and colleague, Clifford Delmonty, is in serious trouble. While working as a contractor at an Australian F 35 facility, the former Taskforce member—callsign Dunkin—saw something he shouldn’t have, and now he’s on the run from Chinese agents.
Pike and Jennifer soon discover that Dunkin’s attackers are a dangerous part of a much larger scheme that could launch a full-on war between China and Taiwan. In their quest for dominance, China is determined to reclaim Taiwan—an ally the United States has sworn to protect. Pike learns that the Chinese have a devious plan to bait the small island nation into all-out war by destabilizing the government while manipulating an artificial intelligence defense system.
As the threat of conflict reaches a boiling point, Pike alone realizes that what is being seen is not what is happening. A soldier who has always been trained to fight and win, Pike is now against an invisible enemy—one he can’t actually attack. With the help of a Taiwanese intelligence agent, he races to prevent a catastrophic conflict from consuming a whole region of the world—and the lives of his teammates.
Pike Logan and Jennifer Cahill are enjoying a sunny vacation down under when they get disturbing news: their friend and colleague, Clifford Delmonty, is in serious trouble. While working as a contractor at an Australian F 35 facility, the former Taskforce member—callsign Dunkin—saw something he shouldn’t have, and now he’s on the run from Chinese agents.
Pike and Jennifer soon discover that Dunkin’s attackers are a dangerous part of a much larger scheme that could launch a full-on war between China and Taiwan. In their quest for dominance, China is determined to reclaim Taiwan—an ally the United States has sworn to protect. Pike learns that the Chinese have a devious plan to bait the small island nation into all-out war by destabilizing the government while manipulating an artificial intelligence defense system.
As the threat of conflict reaches a boiling point, Pike alone realizes that what is being seen is not what is happening. A soldier who has always been trained to fight and win, Pike is now against an invisible enemy—one he can’t actually attack. With the help of a Taiwanese intelligence agent, he races to prevent a catastrophic conflict from consuming a whole region of the world—and the lives of his teammates.
460 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2021
867 people are currently reading
4429 people want to read
About the author
Brad Taylor
48 books2,543 followersBrad Taylor served for more than twenty-one years in the U.S. Army, retiring in 2010 as a Special Forces Lieutenant colonel. During that time he held numerous infantry and special operations positions, including eight years in 1st Special Forces Operations Detachment—Delta, popularly known as the Delta Force, where he commanded multiple troops and a squadron.
He has conducted operations in support of U.S. national interests in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other classified locations. His final military post was as Assistant Professor of Military Science at The Citadel. He holds a master's of science in defense analysis with a concentration in irregular warfare from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA.
When not writing, Brad serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats to various agencies. He currently lives in Charleston, SC, with his wife and two daughters.
He has conducted operations in support of U.S. national interests in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other classified locations. His final military post was as Assistant Professor of Military Science at The Citadel. He holds a master's of science in defense analysis with a concentration in irregular warfare from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA.
When not writing, Brad serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats to various agencies. He currently lives in Charleston, SC, with his wife and two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 359 reviews
April 7, 2021
After reading every Pike Logan to date, I found this wanting. Wanting to better. Wanting to be different. Wanting to be cute with the 11-year old. Wanting for a wedding. Wanting high body counts. Wanting more stars. 4 of 10
January 13, 2021
4.5⭐
Excellent thriller! This Pike book has more espionage than some of his other ones. While I'm less enthusiastic about a plot in the Pacific, I guess I have to deal with it and be realistic with current times. Brad Taylor uses the conflict of China vs Taiwan in American Traitor, not to say this couldn't happen anywhere else.
Pike and Jennifer are on vacation in Australia. They're meeting a former Taskforce colleague, Dunkin (tech guy/hacker). Dunkin got himself mixed up in his new job and on the run from Chinese agents. Pike and Jennifer got themselves tangled in this web.
This was a 4-4.5 stars for action and plot. I'm also warming up to the new Taskforce commander, George Wolffe. I thought the ending was rushed in the last few chapters and "some guys" died too easily while some were executed without being a real threat.
Excellent thriller! This Pike book has more espionage than some of his other ones. While I'm less enthusiastic about a plot in the Pacific, I guess I have to deal with it and be realistic with current times. Brad Taylor uses the conflict of China vs Taiwan in American Traitor, not to say this couldn't happen anywhere else.
Pike and Jennifer are on vacation in Australia. They're meeting a former Taskforce colleague, Dunkin (tech guy/hacker). Dunkin got himself mixed up in his new job and on the run from Chinese agents. Pike and Jennifer got themselves tangled in this web.
This was a 4-4.5 stars for action and plot. I'm also warming up to the new Taskforce commander, George Wolffe. I thought the ending was rushed in the last few chapters and "some guys" died too easily while some were executed without being a real threat.
December 2, 2020
Pike Logan is an awesome character that Taylor has built to be one of the top fiction characters in the thriller game. I have loved the series and was hooked from the beginning with One Rough Man. If you want dedicated, battle hardened, and weathered warriors, and maybe even a well timed Princess Bride quote, American Traitor is the one for you!
This adventure takes pike and Jennifer Cahill (Koko) on a trip to Australia, where a storm of political proportions raises to a head between mainland China and Taiwan. This is right out of the news in modern times. Taylor does a great job of sticking with current geopolitical trends that are going on in the world currently and allowing to play into his craft. The amount of intrigue in this is second to none. There is plenty of bad actors going in different directions, and Taylor does a great job of keeping it sorted well to keep you wondering what is next.
The ferociousness and levelheadedness of the Taskforce is present as you see the internal struggle of a team placed with overwhelming odds. Cahill is a warrior of epic proportions herself as she plays cool, calm, and collected while Pike is hell bent on revenge because of the death of a former teammate.
The action is topnotch, locations authentic, and story telling from a first person point of view gives you a clear picture. You can't go wrong with any Brad Taylor thriller, and this one is a 5 star read that will keep you wondering how the Taskforce is going to work their way out of trouble.
This adventure takes pike and Jennifer Cahill (Koko) on a trip to Australia, where a storm of political proportions raises to a head between mainland China and Taiwan. This is right out of the news in modern times. Taylor does a great job of sticking with current geopolitical trends that are going on in the world currently and allowing to play into his craft. The amount of intrigue in this is second to none. There is plenty of bad actors going in different directions, and Taylor does a great job of keeping it sorted well to keep you wondering what is next.
The ferociousness and levelheadedness of the Taskforce is present as you see the internal struggle of a team placed with overwhelming odds. Cahill is a warrior of epic proportions herself as she plays cool, calm, and collected while Pike is hell bent on revenge because of the death of a former teammate.
The action is topnotch, locations authentic, and story telling from a first person point of view gives you a clear picture. You can't go wrong with any Brad Taylor thriller, and this one is a 5 star read that will keep you wondering how the Taskforce is going to work their way out of trouble.
November 24, 2020
As this series has gone on, the characters have evolved and developed and the author feels far more comfortable with them and his plot crafting.
Logan Pike has always been similar to Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp but has now surpassed him in terms of simmering violence. And Brad Taylor is now edging on the skirts of the traditional Tom Clancy as this is a proper techno-thriller.
Lots of clever ideas here and some interesting thoughts on the “silent expansion” of China. In this China has a team working within Taiwan to use AI targeting systems to “start” a war with China that they can react to and end Taiwan for ever. By the way, worth a brief read up on the history of China and Taiwan, not only interesting but it will help bring this more to life.
Anyway, Pike Logan and “partner” Jennifer are taking a break from The Taskforce to catch up with a friend in Sydney, Australia. When his friend is attacked the pair react with all their considerable skills and soon Sydney is covered in bodies. Eventually Logan’s team fly over to join him and do battle with Chinese operatives while trying to understand exactly what is going on.
Lots of action, great settings (I suspect author Brad Taylor loved his research in Australia) and an intelligent plot. What is so engaging about this is that action within the US “oversight committee” is just as engaging as gunfights in Sydney.
A very well written thriller and my thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy.
Logan Pike has always been similar to Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp but has now surpassed him in terms of simmering violence. And Brad Taylor is now edging on the skirts of the traditional Tom Clancy as this is a proper techno-thriller.
Lots of clever ideas here and some interesting thoughts on the “silent expansion” of China. In this China has a team working within Taiwan to use AI targeting systems to “start” a war with China that they can react to and end Taiwan for ever. By the way, worth a brief read up on the history of China and Taiwan, not only interesting but it will help bring this more to life.
Anyway, Pike Logan and “partner” Jennifer are taking a break from The Taskforce to catch up with a friend in Sydney, Australia. When his friend is attacked the pair react with all their considerable skills and soon Sydney is covered in bodies. Eventually Logan’s team fly over to join him and do battle with Chinese operatives while trying to understand exactly what is going on.
Lots of action, great settings (I suspect author Brad Taylor loved his research in Australia) and an intelligent plot. What is so engaging about this is that action within the US “oversight committee” is just as engaging as gunfights in Sydney.
A very well written thriller and my thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy.
January 18, 2021
American Traitor is the fifteenth instalment in the Nephilim ’Pike’ Logan series. Logan, head of the Taskforce counterterrorism unit, and new wife Jennifer Cahill are enjoying a sunny vacation in Sydney, Australia and looking forward to exploring the Great Barrier Reef when they get disturbing news: their friend and colleague Clifford 'Dunkin' Delmonty, who they were due to stay with while on holiday, is in serious trouble. Dunkin recently exposed the schemes of his coworker Jake Shu, a Chinese-American artificial-intelligence specialist, working for Gollum Solutions at an airbase in Misawa, Japan, who sabotaged the software of the new US F-35 Lightning II fighter jet and stole the code for the early-warning system protecting Taiwan from Chinese invasion. The recovery of the aircraft would take four months, the body of the pilot itself not found until a month after that, with the United States concerned that the Chinese would attempt to find the top-secret information lying on the ocean floor. With the help of Jennifer, the Taskforce team, and a brave Taiwanese intelligence agent, Pike must race against the clock to prevent a catastrophic conflict from consuming a whole region of the world.
This is a scintillating, enthralling and rapid-fire espionage thriller from one of the best in the game at creating a high-stakes cat and mouse game with dire consequences should Pike, Jennifer and the Taskforce fail to stop the ball rolling. Right from the opening pages you are immersed in the story and begin to really care about the characters as they fight to stop an all-out war. It has a high-octane, ripped from the headlines plot with plenty of drama, danger, twists and expert use of misdirection. Pike is a fearless spy who works well with others to ensure the desired outcome of a mission is achieved for the good of the US and her allies. With China becoming ever more powerful, this is a story that very much reflects real-world fears and uses them to craft a rollicking thriller that just about stays on the right side of uncomfortable in how prophetic it could be. Ex-US Special Forces Colonel Brad Taylor knows exactly what he's talking about and brings an air of realism and authenticity to proceedings using his knowledge to pen a believable and compulsively readable tale. Action-packed, expertly plotted and entertaining from the very beginning, this is an adrenaline-pumping, plausible and gritty thrill ride I highly recommend to those who enjoy intelligent, exhilarating and exciting stories rich in advanced spycraft.
This is a scintillating, enthralling and rapid-fire espionage thriller from one of the best in the game at creating a high-stakes cat and mouse game with dire consequences should Pike, Jennifer and the Taskforce fail to stop the ball rolling. Right from the opening pages you are immersed in the story and begin to really care about the characters as they fight to stop an all-out war. It has a high-octane, ripped from the headlines plot with plenty of drama, danger, twists and expert use of misdirection. Pike is a fearless spy who works well with others to ensure the desired outcome of a mission is achieved for the good of the US and her allies. With China becoming ever more powerful, this is a story that very much reflects real-world fears and uses them to craft a rollicking thriller that just about stays on the right side of uncomfortable in how prophetic it could be. Ex-US Special Forces Colonel Brad Taylor knows exactly what he's talking about and brings an air of realism and authenticity to proceedings using his knowledge to pen a believable and compulsively readable tale. Action-packed, expertly plotted and entertaining from the very beginning, this is an adrenaline-pumping, plausible and gritty thrill ride I highly recommend to those who enjoy intelligent, exhilarating and exciting stories rich in advanced spycraft.
January 30, 2021
Wow, Wow, Wow!! What an ending. Run or drive to your local independent book store right now and get this book! Brad Taylor has really amped up his game with this latest Pike Logan Thriller. The fast pace, white knuckle, heart pounding action keeps the pages turning and making you stay up all night to finish this book. It is fitting that I finished this book on my uncle's birthday who left me all of his books when he passed away. Brad Taylor was one of his favorite, with numerous signed books thanking my uncle for his service. Brad has a special place in my heart for that and for the enjoyment he brought to my uncle and now me!!
December 8, 2020
I got this fantastic book called American Traitor by Brad Taylor and must thank the author, #Edelweiss and #WilliamMorrow for making it available. The books about Pike Logan and his merry band of marauders only gets better for every book. This one was exciting and funny at the same time. I also find it interesting to hear Brad talk about the research behind his writing and the aid he has from DCOE. I don't think anyone out there has missed this series but if so you have to start reading it at once. This is stongly recommendedfrom a booknerd in Sweden.
December 19, 2020
January is a great month for new thriller book releases, and it’s become an annual tradition of mine to pick up the latest Brad Taylor book shortly after New Year’s Day every year. Lucky for me, I didn’t have to wait until 2021 to get a look at the latest Pike Logan adventure, thanks to NetGalley providing me a sneak peak at American Traitor (coming out January 5, 2021). I had high expectations since Brad is one of the best writers, and Pike one of the best operators, in the genre today. After devouring the book, I can honestly say this is one fantastic novel! American Traitor is a cerebral and elaborate story with a tangled plot that combines complex geopolitical shenanigans with that special Pike Logan magic badassery we all know and love.
American Traitor follows Pike and fellow Taskforce operator/now-wife Jennifer Cahill (aka Koko) as they head to Australia for vacation and some diving around the Great Barrier Reef. They’re hoping for a relaxing vacation visiting a friend and former Taskforce member, but with Pike nothing is ever that simple. No sooner do they get to their friend’s apartment than the bloodshed ensues, and this time Pike and Jennifer don’t know why they were targeted. They get involved as a means to protect their friend, but that quickly expands into a kinetic operation across Australia, then Taiwan, with the other illustrious Taskforce members joining in on the fun. As they dig deeper, they unravel an ominous conspiracy with global implications that could start a costly war with China. Now in a race against time, Pike and his team must stretch the limits of the Taskforce charter to save the world…again.
What makes American Traitor one of Brad Taylor’s best books to date is that it’s much more than a large body count at Pike Logan’s hands. Yes, there is plenty of action and dead bad guys along the way to make die-hard fans happy. But this book is so much more than an action thriller. In fact, I believe it’s more of a political thriller combined with a spy thriller. There’s a great deal of insight into Pan-Asian politics with the plot exploring Chinese espionage activities in Australia, the nine-dash line in the South China Sea, the tenuous China/Taiwan relationship and the United States ambiguous diplomatic policy towards Taiwan. These elements make for a compelling story that moves between key characters on multiple sides of the equation until it all comes to a head with an explosive conclusion.
In addition, this book represents a transition point in the series. After the events of Hunter Killer (the previous Pike book), George Wolffe is pressed into action as the new leader of the Taskforce and Brad does a great job of developing him as a character. It would have been easy for George just pick up where Kurt Hale, the prior Taskforce leader, left off. Instead, he is shown to be his own man with more political savvy and a penchant to let Pike work his magic with a little less oversight. George is also faced with the Taskforce charter possibly evolving in a new direction, which requires a different approach. We’ll have to wait and see how George develops over the next few books, but I’m intrigued to see how he progresses and deals with Pike’s unique skillset of pushing the boundaries of authority and mission approval.
I highly recommend picking up a copy of American Traitor. It’s the latest in a long line of absolutely bankable great thrillers by Brad Taylor. It has everything you could want: politics, action, espionage…and Pike taking out everything and everyone standing in his way of mission success. In addition, it feels like a book that is predicting one of the next big world-shaping conflagrations. I’m willing to bet that we’ll see real life actions that mirror the plot of this book. Hopefully not to the same extent, but we’ll just have to wait and see. So read about it now and be prepared for what’s to come!
American Traitor follows Pike and fellow Taskforce operator/now-wife Jennifer Cahill (aka Koko) as they head to Australia for vacation and some diving around the Great Barrier Reef. They’re hoping for a relaxing vacation visiting a friend and former Taskforce member, but with Pike nothing is ever that simple. No sooner do they get to their friend’s apartment than the bloodshed ensues, and this time Pike and Jennifer don’t know why they were targeted. They get involved as a means to protect their friend, but that quickly expands into a kinetic operation across Australia, then Taiwan, with the other illustrious Taskforce members joining in on the fun. As they dig deeper, they unravel an ominous conspiracy with global implications that could start a costly war with China. Now in a race against time, Pike and his team must stretch the limits of the Taskforce charter to save the world…again.
What makes American Traitor one of Brad Taylor’s best books to date is that it’s much more than a large body count at Pike Logan’s hands. Yes, there is plenty of action and dead bad guys along the way to make die-hard fans happy. But this book is so much more than an action thriller. In fact, I believe it’s more of a political thriller combined with a spy thriller. There’s a great deal of insight into Pan-Asian politics with the plot exploring Chinese espionage activities in Australia, the nine-dash line in the South China Sea, the tenuous China/Taiwan relationship and the United States ambiguous diplomatic policy towards Taiwan. These elements make for a compelling story that moves between key characters on multiple sides of the equation until it all comes to a head with an explosive conclusion.
In addition, this book represents a transition point in the series. After the events of Hunter Killer (the previous Pike book), George Wolffe is pressed into action as the new leader of the Taskforce and Brad does a great job of developing him as a character. It would have been easy for George just pick up where Kurt Hale, the prior Taskforce leader, left off. Instead, he is shown to be his own man with more political savvy and a penchant to let Pike work his magic with a little less oversight. George is also faced with the Taskforce charter possibly evolving in a new direction, which requires a different approach. We’ll have to wait and see how George develops over the next few books, but I’m intrigued to see how he progresses and deals with Pike’s unique skillset of pushing the boundaries of authority and mission approval.
I highly recommend picking up a copy of American Traitor. It’s the latest in a long line of absolutely bankable great thrillers by Brad Taylor. It has everything you could want: politics, action, espionage…and Pike taking out everything and everyone standing in his way of mission success. In addition, it feels like a book that is predicting one of the next big world-shaping conflagrations. I’m willing to bet that we’ll see real life actions that mirror the plot of this book. Hopefully not to the same extent, but we’ll just have to wait and see. So read about it now and be prepared for what’s to come!
June 7, 2021
The story is set in today's reality, with China very much looking to find ways to topple Taiwan. In fact, shades of Hong Kong's recent headlines fit nicely into this narrative. Using coercion and bribery to infiltrate Taiwan's advanced defensive warning system (think the "WOPR" from the movie War Games), China sets in motion a plan to cause Taiwan to launch its missiles, thereby handing China an excuse to retaliate. Enter Pike & Jennifer, a badass couple from the states who just happen to be on vacation at the scene of the crime, and are tapped by U.S. officials to save the day.
Although the geopolitical setup is realistic and, in many ways, the potential for this type of governmental chicanery undoubtedly exists, the notion of a few Americans stumbling across this massive war maneuver and foiling the enemy's plot is a bit farfetched.
Overall, lots of action to hold one's attention, making this an acceptable "beach" read. Just be prepared to kick into the old "willing suspension of disbelief" mode.
Although the geopolitical setup is realistic and, in many ways, the potential for this type of governmental chicanery undoubtedly exists, the notion of a few Americans stumbling across this massive war maneuver and foiling the enemy's plot is a bit farfetched.
Overall, lots of action to hold one's attention, making this an acceptable "beach" read. Just be prepared to kick into the old "willing suspension of disbelief" mode.
December 12, 2020
I am very thankful to have received an advanced reader’s edition of American Traitor due to release in January 2021.
Brad Taylor has crafted an excellent thriller, that above all descriptions, is smart! This story left me guessing at the endgame throughout. Pike Logan is one rough man who doesn’t let things go.
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and pace of this novel! Highly recommended for fans of Flynn, Thor, and Coes. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Brad Taylor has crafted an excellent thriller, that above all descriptions, is smart! This story left me guessing at the endgame throughout. Pike Logan is one rough man who doesn’t let things go.
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and pace of this novel! Highly recommended for fans of Flynn, Thor, and Coes. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 19, 2020
This is the first book by Brad Taylor that I've read and I'm not happy! Now I have to go out and get the rest of his books! Right up to the last pages I didn't know how it was going to end! Definitely a must read.
January 26, 2021
Action, action, and more ACTION. Yes, this is one of those real page-turners.
The events and political atmosphere are right up to snuff with today's goings-on with China and Taiwan. Lots of governmental, FBI, and military jargon are loaded in this thriller.
Great job, Brad Taylor.
The events and political atmosphere are right up to snuff with today's goings-on with China and Taiwan. Lots of governmental, FBI, and military jargon are loaded in this thriller.
Great job, Brad Taylor.
January 17, 2021
What I continue to love about the series is that—while the composition had improved by leaps and bounds, from the atrocious sentence structure and stilted dialogue of the first book to being rather engaging and evocative in the latest entry—the plotting has always remained stellar. Brad Taylor simply knows how to set up a globe-trotting plot that involves multiple parties all racing in parallel to either produce or prevent the next global military, political, or terrorist catastrophe.
In this case, the plot revolves around using A.I., deep fake technology, and the American traitor of the title to initiate a war between China and Taiwan in order to give China all the justification it needs to invade the smaller country. Mostly hopping between Australia and Taiwan, the conspiracy draws Pike’s team in to prevent a war that promises to pull in the U.S. against its will in order to placate both parties.
The action scenes are great, filled with Chinese-backed assassins, members of the Triad, and several Asian intelligence agencies. It really makes you feel how perilous the situation is and how motivated the bad guys are to insure nothing gets in their way.
As always the team has real chemistry and it’s still a pleasure seeing how they all mesh so well. It’s like visiting friends you’ve been close with for over fifteen years now.
Also, I liked how ominously it hints at COVID-19 at the very end. It’s literally the first of the major series I read yearly to include even a wisp of a mention, something I suspect will change in the near future as publishing schedules catch up to the real world.
In this case, the plot revolves around using A.I., deep fake technology, and the American traitor of the title to initiate a war between China and Taiwan in order to give China all the justification it needs to invade the smaller country. Mostly hopping between Australia and Taiwan, the conspiracy draws Pike’s team in to prevent a war that promises to pull in the U.S. against its will in order to placate both parties.
The action scenes are great, filled with Chinese-backed assassins, members of the Triad, and several Asian intelligence agencies. It really makes you feel how perilous the situation is and how motivated the bad guys are to insure nothing gets in their way.
As always the team has real chemistry and it’s still a pleasure seeing how they all mesh so well. It’s like visiting friends you’ve been close with for over fifteen years now.
Also, I liked how ominously it hints at COVID-19 at the very end. It’s literally the first of the major series I read yearly to include even a wisp of a mention, something I suspect will change in the near future as publishing schedules catch up to the real world.
June 25, 2022
The series shifts focus in this book from Islamoterror to China.
After a sham marriage to get Amena into the country, Pike and Jennifer are going on vacation. They send the plot device to a private school. They're going on vacation, staying with a former team member who lives in Australia.
The former team member is on the wrong side of Chinese intelligence who think he knows too much...but they run into Pike and Jennifer instead, and start things off.
The Chicoms have a plan to take over Taiwan, and only The Task Force can stop them, but they're not supposed to take on other states.
Very exciting. Amena is kept in the background, with the focus on the action.
After a sham marriage to get Amena into the country, Pike and Jennifer are going on vacation. They send the plot device to a private school. They're going on vacation, staying with a former team member who lives in Australia.
The former team member is on the wrong side of Chinese intelligence who think he knows too much...but they run into Pike and Jennifer instead, and start things off.
The Chicoms have a plan to take over Taiwan, and only The Task Force can stop them, but they're not supposed to take on other states.
Very exciting. Amena is kept in the background, with the focus on the action.
January 29, 2021
Pike and Jennifer are never going to be able to take a normal vacation! I love the Pike, Jennifer and Amena scenes, because after all they have been through they have to learn how to be a family. While there was another loss of a great character from previous books, there was a lot of action as always and plenty of bad guy bloodshed! Also loved the setting as Australia because I have a few friends who are from the Manly area so it was super cool to know some of the places they were talking about! Brad did it again with another fantastic thriller!
November 15, 2020
Pike Logan #15 is a read that could be a stand alone for a first time reader - and what a thrill you’ll get! It is quite clear China is the bad guy, and only Pike can stop this illegal behavior. The action scenes are incredible and explosive in this world of special ops. I find it well written with amazing characters and stayed up all night to read! Loved it!!
January 25, 2023
The fifteenth book in Brad Taylor's Pike Logan series, American Traitor, pivots to the Chinese threat. Pike and Jennifer go on vacation in Australia, but things rapidly go awry and they (and the Taskforce) find themselves sucked into a massive Chinese conspiracy that runs the risk of sparking World War III.
I give it five stars because we're on the five-star scale. Were we on a ten-star scale, I'd give it a nine out of ten (with the previous books--Hunter Killer and Daughter of War--being ten-star books). Giving it four out of five stars wouldn't be accurate since it deserves more than an 80% rating. That said, this book falls just short of its predecessors.
I'd say my biggest complaint was the order of the scenes. I understand from a writer's perspective why the scenes detailing the antagonists' conspiracy, the Chinese assassins chasing their targets, and the scenes with Paul in Taiwan were necessary. I just wish they were more evenly interspersed with scenes from the Taskforce. They weren't bad scenes, per se; I just found myself wanting to see where Pike and Jenn picked up.
That's not to say it wasn't an entertaining book. As always, Taylor does a fantastic job with his research. Whether it's locales in Australia and Taiwan or the geopolitical situation with China, Taylor does more than his due diligence in research. The action is kinetic and those scenes will leave the reader turning the pages with rapid speed.
I enjoyed the book overall and I'm looking forward to the next.
I give it five stars because we're on the five-star scale. Were we on a ten-star scale, I'd give it a nine out of ten (with the previous books--Hunter Killer and Daughter of War--being ten-star books). Giving it four out of five stars wouldn't be accurate since it deserves more than an 80% rating. That said, this book falls just short of its predecessors.
I'd say my biggest complaint was the order of the scenes. I understand from a writer's perspective why the scenes detailing the antagonists' conspiracy, the Chinese assassins chasing their targets, and the scenes with Paul in Taiwan were necessary. I just wish they were more evenly interspersed with scenes from the Taskforce. They weren't bad scenes, per se; I just found myself wanting to see where Pike and Jenn picked up.
That's not to say it wasn't an entertaining book. As always, Taylor does a fantastic job with his research. Whether it's locales in Australia and Taiwan or the geopolitical situation with China, Taylor does more than his due diligence in research. The action is kinetic and those scenes will leave the reader turning the pages with rapid speed.
I enjoyed the book overall and I'm looking forward to the next.
January 18, 2021
"American Traitor" is another winning, fast-paced political/spy thriller, from the pen of Brad Taylor, featuring Pike Logan, fellow Taskforce operator/now-wife Jennifer Cahill and the rest of the Taskforce...While visiting Australia, they're drawn into a Chinese operation involving Artificial Intelligence and its uses to destabilize Taiwan, much like the PRC has put Hong Kong under their thumb...Soon the entire Taskforce becomes involved...While completely entertaining as a spy thriller, "American Traitor," also serves also as a cautionary tale of the “silent expansion” of China and its infiltration and influence on the highest levels of industry, academia and pop culture in both Australia and the US, you know, the stuff major media wants us to ignore...Good stuff!!!
November 30, 2021
My 2nd Pike Logan thriller.
was my first. I keep intending to start at his first book, but I am trying to keep current as well. Plenty of action. World politics as well. I like the cast of characters, the team approach as well. Looking forward to many more Pike Logan thrillers.
was my first. I keep intending to start at his first book, but I am trying to keep current as well. Plenty of action. World politics as well. I like the cast of characters, the team approach as well. Looking forward to many more Pike Logan thrillers.
January 17, 2021
Brilliant!
This fast-paced political thriller has all the elements to make a great movie!
You can see Brad Taylor is an expert in the field and sometimes it got a bit technical for me but you can see it was a well-researched story and I liked the detail he gave in his author's notes about the research that went into writing this book.
The action leaves you out of breath at times and I also want a nail with a blade attached! I can just imagine how much fun I will have! No corkscrew...... Wait let me open that bottle for you hehe.
I like Pike Taylor. He is fiercely loyal to his country and the people he cares for so you don't want to cross swords with him because he WILL take you down. I also like the fact that he looks to his partner Jennifer for advice at times. Let hope we see a wedding in the next book!
Thank you to Netgalley, Aria &Aries and Head of Zeus for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
This fast-paced political thriller has all the elements to make a great movie!
You can see Brad Taylor is an expert in the field and sometimes it got a bit technical for me but you can see it was a well-researched story and I liked the detail he gave in his author's notes about the research that went into writing this book.
The action leaves you out of breath at times and I also want a nail with a blade attached! I can just imagine how much fun I will have! No corkscrew...... Wait let me open that bottle for you hehe.
I like Pike Taylor. He is fiercely loyal to his country and the people he cares for so you don't want to cross swords with him because he WILL take you down. I also like the fact that he looks to his partner Jennifer for advice at times. Let hope we see a wedding in the next book!
Thank you to Netgalley, Aria &Aries and Head of Zeus for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
January 13, 2021
First, thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the Advance Readers Copy of American Traitor, by Brad Taylor. This is #15 in the Pike Logan series, which has definitely improved with the addition of Amena and the deepening relationship and trust between Pike and Jennifer. This is an outstanding series, and well worth your time if you like military or special ops thrillers. Hopefully, we'll have many more Pike Logan novels to look forward to in the future. The author, Brad Taylor, seems to be growing in expertise, and has now added China to the list of threats that he's covered in his novels. I'm sure there's lots more to develop on this topic in the near future...
Although there were a few lucky coincidences tying this novel together, by and large it was extremely well plotted and written, and the excitement built into an overwhelming tidal wave in the last 100 pages (read in 1 sitting). Still missing Kurt Hale, but George Wolfe seems to be carrying on his legacy with Project Prometheus. Can't wait for the next novel.
Although there were a few lucky coincidences tying this novel together, by and large it was extremely well plotted and written, and the excitement built into an overwhelming tidal wave in the last 100 pages (read in 1 sitting). Still missing Kurt Hale, but George Wolfe seems to be carrying on his legacy with Project Prometheus. Can't wait for the next novel.
January 7, 2021
1/5/2021: just managed to finish it on release day!
Reading Hunter Killer first definitely helped me get a footing in Pike Logan’s world and the Taskforce. However, it also meant that I noticed a lot of parallels between this book and that in regards to Pike’s motivations. The central conspiracy of American Traitor is Chinese manipulation of the Taiwan presidential elections using American, Taiwanese, and Chinese assets using means far different (and far more overt/dangerous) from those employed by the Russian manipulation of the Brazil presidential elections in the previous book.
The crux is new locales, new targets, new action sequences, and stopping a new type of threat (the almighty, “incorruptible” AI). Chen Ju-Long is one of the primary antagonists, taking point on the Chinese angle in Australia to get the AI data the Chinese need to trick Taiwan into attacking them first. I’m pretty sure it was Chen who expressed his dislike for how espionage has become so technological instead of physical. Hm, unless it was Pike doing so, and reflecting on how old methods are not as effective as they used to be in this rapidly modernizing world. Well, either way, the sentiment about missing the “good old days” of human infiltration and espionage versus modern AI/technological espionage was definitely present. We live in a changing world, and Pike Logan and the threats he comes up against give us a glimpse at just what the boat we’re taking off in looks like nowadays.
However, Pike’s path/arc is very similar in both: he is minding his own business, then a friend of his ends up targeted (intentional or not), Pike finds himself embroiled in the mess and takes it upon himself to track the culprits and mete out justice, Pike makes it into an unsanctioned mission and gets his team around him, they uncover a bigger conspiracy and Pike gets Taskforce sanction because of it, Pike and team leave a trail of bodies in their wake as they take down the threat and ensure justice and remove the meddling parties from the scene, thus saving the day and the elections. So as far as Taskforce characterization, there’s nothing really new in this book, even from the last book. Even the thread of that fine line between hunter-killer and going over the edge into the abyss is given a back seat, and I can’t say I noticed any residual effects on Knuckles from the events of Hunter Killer.
There also seemed to be a higher number of pop culture references/comparisons made, and while they worked, I couldn’t help but feel a little pulled out of the story by them. Though that might just be because I’m used to authors avoiding references to such big IPs as Dreamworks (reference to the movie “Abominable”). The “Abominable” reference especially caught my eye, as Taylor points out that in order to get China to agree to show it in their country, Dreamworks had to incorporate a map showing Chinese sovereignty with the nine-dash line or whatever it’s called. So now I want to see that scene at least, to see what exactly he’s referencing.
Side note: the title came into play a little earlier than in Hunter Killer (where “hunter-killer” appeared on page 454/505), as “American traitor” makes its first appearance on page 312/445 of the ARC paperback.
As far as giving us an action-packed international espionage story is concerned, American Traitor delivers. But where character development and change is concerned, well, the delivery is much smaller. The inner structure of the story is extremely similar to that of Hunter Killer, with the main differences being in the setting, the espionage involved, and everything that dresses it up. At its heart, though, the bones of these two books are the same.
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected the contents of my review or rating.
Favorite quotes:
Killing just inured you to death, and it took strong convictions to let one kill and stay above the fray. – page 112
That man was at the root of both the mission and Dunkin’s death, and while I’d wanted to protect U.S. national interests before, now I wanted to make him pay personally. – page 240
Reading Hunter Killer first definitely helped me get a footing in Pike Logan’s world and the Taskforce. However, it also meant that I noticed a lot of parallels between this book and that in regards to Pike’s motivations. The central conspiracy of American Traitor is Chinese manipulation of the Taiwan presidential elections using American, Taiwanese, and Chinese assets using means far different (and far more overt/dangerous) from those employed by the Russian manipulation of the Brazil presidential elections in the previous book.
The crux is new locales, new targets, new action sequences, and stopping a new type of threat (the almighty, “incorruptible” AI). Chen Ju-Long is one of the primary antagonists, taking point on the Chinese angle in Australia to get the AI data the Chinese need to trick Taiwan into attacking them first. I’m pretty sure it was Chen who expressed his dislike for how espionage has become so technological instead of physical. Hm, unless it was Pike doing so, and reflecting on how old methods are not as effective as they used to be in this rapidly modernizing world. Well, either way, the sentiment about missing the “good old days” of human infiltration and espionage versus modern AI/technological espionage was definitely present. We live in a changing world, and Pike Logan and the threats he comes up against give us a glimpse at just what the boat we’re taking off in looks like nowadays.
However, Pike’s path/arc is very similar in both: he is minding his own business, then a friend of his ends up targeted (intentional or not), Pike finds himself embroiled in the mess and takes it upon himself to track the culprits and mete out justice, Pike makes it into an unsanctioned mission and gets his team around him, they uncover a bigger conspiracy and Pike gets Taskforce sanction because of it, Pike and team leave a trail of bodies in their wake as they take down the threat and ensure justice and remove the meddling parties from the scene, thus saving the day and the elections. So as far as Taskforce characterization, there’s nothing really new in this book, even from the last book. Even the thread of that fine line between hunter-killer and going over the edge into the abyss is given a back seat, and I can’t say I noticed any residual effects on Knuckles from the events of Hunter Killer.
There also seemed to be a higher number of pop culture references/comparisons made, and while they worked, I couldn’t help but feel a little pulled out of the story by them. Though that might just be because I’m used to authors avoiding references to such big IPs as Dreamworks (reference to the movie “Abominable”). The “Abominable” reference especially caught my eye, as Taylor points out that in order to get China to agree to show it in their country, Dreamworks had to incorporate a map showing Chinese sovereignty with the nine-dash line or whatever it’s called. So now I want to see that scene at least, to see what exactly he’s referencing.
Side note: the title came into play a little earlier than in Hunter Killer (where “hunter-killer” appeared on page 454/505), as “American traitor” makes its first appearance on page 312/445 of the ARC paperback.
As far as giving us an action-packed international espionage story is concerned, American Traitor delivers. But where character development and change is concerned, well, the delivery is much smaller. The inner structure of the story is extremely similar to that of Hunter Killer, with the main differences being in the setting, the espionage involved, and everything that dresses it up. At its heart, though, the bones of these two books are the same.
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected the contents of my review or rating.
Favorite quotes:
Killing just inured you to death, and it took strong convictions to let one kill and stay above the fray. – page 112
That man was at the root of both the mission and Dunkin’s death, and while I’d wanted to protect U.S. national interests before, now I wanted to make him pay personally. – page 240
November 13, 2020
Lucky enough to receive an ARC of AMERICAN TRAITOR, a preamble is necessary. First off, the cover design is KILLER and absolutely rocks it. Kudos to Brad Taylor and his team. The Chinese (red) menace [on the cover via flag] and the hint of something feral lurking, hinting at a double play of both Pike Logan taking on the juggernaut and thematic elements that drive the story along. It's definitely a mover.
Having skipped everything in between A ROUGH MAN (2011) and AMERICAN TRAITOR, this 15th outing in the Pike Logan series is entirely readable as a stand-along piece, save for one aspect of the previous adventure that is mentioned a few times throughout the book. Surely, following a natural flow of reading other authors and eventually getting to other entries in this series, you can enter a fugue state, forgeddaboutit and enjoy the thrills untainted.
From the get-go, it is quite clear - China is the bad guy and only Pike Logan can stop the behemoth. The opprobrium starts right off and ranges from industrial espionage, useless academics without downrage time, young staffer puffer fish lacking the proper experience, the Gordian Knot of bureaucracy, and Uyghur suppression plus incarceration. It is quite clear - China is the bad guy and Pike Logan is an apex predator. Though it remains a mystery why 15 books into the series that the gentle reader must be reminded thusly. Is it not a tenet of the battle hardened operator that the person always talking about being an apex predator is the least apex predator in the room?
The story quickly gains momentum after an act of sabotage, deftly moved along by relatably clever references and quotes from movies like The Princess Bride, A Christmas Story, the ALIEN series, The Magnificent Seven, Forrest Gump, A bridge Too Far, Risky Business, and First Blood. Though make no mistake, China malfeasance may threaten War Games 2021 (or 2.0?) and despite mentioning Clark Griswold of Nat'l Lampoons vacation fame, AMERICAN TRAITOR is no trip to Wally World.
A case of mistaken identity on vacation leads from one ambush to another. The relentless chase by the Red Menace will leave you looking for respite that is denied even in free fall with a Dar Robinson (Lethal Weapon & To Live and Die in L.A. stunt fame) decelerator. AMERICAN TRAITOR is not so much about Pike Logan operator bad-assery, though there is plenty of that, but a South Pacific+ regional conflict that quickly turns into a National Security Flashpoint for the United States. Silence is the name of the game and AMERICAN TRAITOR shines when Pike Logan & crew are not on the page. America runs on Dunkin and Dunkin runs from China, down under, making AMERICAN TRAITOR a relentlessly readable thriller of geopolitical intrigue & espionage cat and mouse. On January 5, 2021, get some Pike Magic & thank Brad later.
February 9, 2022
Book Review - American Traitor is another good Brad Taylor book but not as good as his previous other ones. One of the things I really enjoy about the Pike Logan series is the cast of characters on the Task Force and their diversity. In some previous Taylor books they play a larger roll as a team and we learn more about them and their back stories. In this book, they are almost one dimensional - ‘a$$-kickers’ and I found it difficult to feel connected to them in this somewhat complex story. If I hadn't read all the other books in the series, I may not have cared at all about the Task Force supporting characters in this story, which was complex and sometimes confusing for me to figure out exactly what each of the characters - good and bad - were up to and why they were relevant. But as usual Taylor does pull the story back together again so it made more sense. Again It was very complicated and extremely detailed in it’s descriptions and just took a little longer than usual to come together at the end. Overall, I love this series, and I liked this book but thought the switching between characters and plots was a little too much which caused the book to go a little long. It was a very intriguing espionage story but not as strong as previous other Brad Taylor books in my opinion. This is a great book for ‘seasoned’ espionage thriller readers and not first-time spy thriller readers. It’s too complex and hard to follow if one is not well informed in world politics and espionage. Still a good book though.
January 20, 2021
Goodreads Kindle Copy Win
Pike Logan must find a friend before he betrays his country. It will not be an easy assignment in this compelling thriller. Who is to be trusted in this game of cloak and dagger? One wrong move could be your last.
Can he save his friend from the enemy? A fast paced plot that will keep you glued to the end.
Pike Logan must find a friend before he betrays his country. It will not be an easy assignment in this compelling thriller. Who is to be trusted in this game of cloak and dagger? One wrong move could be your last.
Can he save his friend from the enemy? A fast paced plot that will keep you glued to the end.
December 10, 2024
5 of 5 Stars
Review to come!
Review to come!
January 7, 2021
4.5 stars 🌟
I really need to think of different things to say when it comes to the Pike Logan series. Why? Because I freaking LOVE this series!
Also, this is one of those unique series where I ACTUALLY prefer the audio version. Somehow, Rich Orlow IS Pike Logan to me. His voice is so unique that I enjoy listening to him and can not imagine listening to anyone else attempt to do Pike justice.
This time, Pike and Jennifer are going to Australia for some R&R and what do you know? Pike gets into trouble. Honestly, it's not his fault, but you can just see everyone else rolling their eyes because, well, he just ALWAYS gets in trouble.
This is the first book of 2021 (in this genre) where we have a very well done thriller that focuses on China, and the threat they possess. For the last several years, most of the great books in this genre have focused on the Middle East (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Saudi Arabia) or Russia. It is always amazing when an author can take something that is relevant now, right from the headlines - even though these books are written months or even a year in advance. Mr. Taylor does a phenomenal job of describing and explaining the geo-political landscape of the relevant countries and it is honestly TERRIFYING to contemplate the ramifications that can be possible for our country. Truly scary.
The story is action packed from beginning to end and full of intrigue. The gang finds itself in the middle of a bunch of craziness and when the Taskforce leader tells Pike that he needs to go save the world.....well, he needs to go save the world!
Can't wait for book 16 :)
I really need to think of different things to say when it comes to the Pike Logan series. Why? Because I freaking LOVE this series!
Also, this is one of those unique series where I ACTUALLY prefer the audio version. Somehow, Rich Orlow IS Pike Logan to me. His voice is so unique that I enjoy listening to him and can not imagine listening to anyone else attempt to do Pike justice.
This time, Pike and Jennifer are going to Australia for some R&R and what do you know? Pike gets into trouble. Honestly, it's not his fault, but you can just see everyone else rolling their eyes because, well, he just ALWAYS gets in trouble.
This is the first book of 2021 (in this genre) where we have a very well done thriller that focuses on China, and the threat they possess. For the last several years, most of the great books in this genre have focused on the Middle East (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Saudi Arabia) or Russia. It is always amazing when an author can take something that is relevant now, right from the headlines - even though these books are written months or even a year in advance. Mr. Taylor does a phenomenal job of describing and explaining the geo-political landscape of the relevant countries and it is honestly TERRIFYING to contemplate the ramifications that can be possible for our country. Truly scary.
The story is action packed from beginning to end and full of intrigue. The gang finds itself in the middle of a bunch of craziness and when the Taskforce leader tells Pike that he needs to go save the world.....well, he needs to go save the world!
Can't wait for book 16 :)
February 8, 2023
As timely as the People's Republic of China's spy balloon, AMERICAN TRAITOR is an exciting, no-holds-barred story of the PRC's desire to take back Taiwan, as they had Hong Kong. It's also a story of who's a spy and who is not...as we have spies for the PRC, spies for the Republic of China, and spies in Austrailia and the USA.
Though written in 2021, it is up-to-date in relating the desire of the PRC to get back Taiwan (ROC). Pike Logan and his wife, Jennifer Cahill are as tough as they come. While on a vacation (?) in Australia where Jennifer was looking forward to diving in the Great Barrier Reef, the plans change dramatically as one of Pike's best friends disappears in Australia.
We learn of how the PRC has a vast number of citizens (spies) living in Australia, and Pike decides to get involved in hunting down the ones who took his friend.
AMERICAN TRAITOR is a fast-moving tale of intrigue, from the blowing-up of a new, futuristic super fighter plane over the South China Sea to the missiles sent by the ROC to seek revenge on the PRC for wht is believed to be missiles heading to Taiwan. Or is it the other way around. Regardless, Pike and Jennifer are determined to find out and thus prevent a major war.
Though written in 2021, it is up-to-date in relating the desire of the PRC to get back Taiwan (ROC). Pike Logan and his wife, Jennifer Cahill are as tough as they come. While on a vacation (?) in Australia where Jennifer was looking forward to diving in the Great Barrier Reef, the plans change dramatically as one of Pike's best friends disappears in Australia.
We learn of how the PRC has a vast number of citizens (spies) living in Australia, and Pike decides to get involved in hunting down the ones who took his friend.
AMERICAN TRAITOR is a fast-moving tale of intrigue, from the blowing-up of a new, futuristic super fighter plane over the South China Sea to the missiles sent by the ROC to seek revenge on the PRC for wht is believed to be missiles heading to Taiwan. Or is it the other way around. Regardless, Pike and Jennifer are determined to find out and thus prevent a major war.
February 1, 2021
Although I hadn't read this author before, this book was a terrific surprise. A friend had recommended it to me so I gave it a shot. The book deals mostly with the adversarial relationship between China and Taiwan. Although I'm not much of a technology buff, the author did a great job of weaving modern technology into the story line. Along the way, we are introduced to Pike Logan, a former military man now doing freelance work with the president's consent. I won't go into the plot much in this brief review, but if you liked Mark Greaney's Gray Man, you'll love Pike Logan. Definitely worth the effort.
September 10, 2025
Another solid entry in the Pike Logan series by author @bradtaylorbooks. This is the 15th in the series and is action-packed from the start. Pike and Jennifer are off to Australia for a much needed vacation to see an old teammate when, true to form, trouble finds them. This adventure deals with the attempt of China to take over Taiwan. Like always, Brad Taylor takes what is going on around the world and writes a very convincing story that could happen. A very good, quick read.
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