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The Hybrid Enemy
Following a series of mysterious accidents at the international terminals of Macrae Shipping Company, James Macrae must uncover the nefarious adversary intent on destroying his family's legacy.
After becoming CEO of his family's shipping company, James never suspected that he would become a victim of international espionage that would threaten both his company and those he loves. When James discovers that the incidents are acts of sabotage, he must act quickly to unmask the hidden enemy working in the shadows.
Journeying across Europe and the Middle East, James follows the trail of clues as he begins to question whether these incidents could be linked to one of his company's competitors, a company rumored to be caught up in international arms smuggling.
But as he peels back the layers of this conspiracy, James begins to realize that this may reach beyond mere business rivalry. And, as he finds himself and his family in the crosshairs, James must race against time to discover the truth before he loses everything that he holds dear.
After becoming CEO of his family's shipping company, James never suspected that he would become a victim of international espionage that would threaten both his company and those he loves. When James discovers that the incidents are acts of sabotage, he must act quickly to unmask the hidden enemy working in the shadows.
Journeying across Europe and the Middle East, James follows the trail of clues as he begins to question whether these incidents could be linked to one of his company's competitors, a company rumored to be caught up in international arms smuggling.
But as he peels back the layers of this conspiracy, James begins to realize that this may reach beyond mere business rivalry. And, as he finds himself and his family in the crosshairs, James must race against time to discover the truth before he loses everything that he holds dear.
- GenresFiction
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
69 people are currently reading
6749 people want to read
About the author
Richard D. Ross
7 books48 followersRichard’s career has been in the heavy transportation industry, spanning three continents. Born in England, he has also lived in the Middle East and now lives in Canada.
As a former president and general manager of several major international companies, he has been a leader and mentor in the industry. No stranger to writing, he has written many articles for trade magazines and government councils and now, with his James Macrae series of thrillers, Richard has branched out into the world of dramatic fiction.
His love of history, current affairs, as well as industry experience are all interweaved in his writing.
Favorite pastime: Camping in the Canadian wilderness, campfire and a scotch.
Other pastimes: Writing, golf (can be embarrassing!)
Favorite song: 'You belong to the city' by Glenn Frey
Favorite Movie: Shirley Valentine
Other Interests: Future technology
As a former president and general manager of several major international companies, he has been a leader and mentor in the industry. No stranger to writing, he has written many articles for trade magazines and government councils and now, with his James Macrae series of thrillers, Richard has branched out into the world of dramatic fiction.
His love of history, current affairs, as well as industry experience are all interweaved in his writing.
Favorite pastime: Camping in the Canadian wilderness, campfire and a scotch.
Other pastimes: Writing, golf (can be embarrassing!)
Favorite song: 'You belong to the city' by Glenn Frey
Favorite Movie: Shirley Valentine
Other Interests: Future technology
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 2, 2022
My husband read and rated this book. He really liked the characters and the action and plans read the sequel. Thanks to the author for the Goodreads giveaway!
February 13, 2025
Exciting and exhilarating!
April 15, 2023
Lots of Action
I enjoyed this book. There was plenty of action to keep me turning pages to the end. I look forward to reading more of the James Macrae books.
I enjoyed this book. There was plenty of action to keep me turning pages to the end. I look forward to reading more of the James Macrae books.
May 26, 2022
The heir of a shipping company, James, gets involved in a high-level conspiracy designed to have him removed from being the company's CEO.
This excellent thriller is filled with sabotages, murders, arms trade, fraud, and embezzlement.
When his company is on the brink of bankruptcy, James goes on a globetrotting adventure to find out the truth and protect the company and his family.
But the journey isn't without perils, and the more he finds out about how deep the conspiracy goes, the more dangerous it is for him and his family.
Only with the help of MI6 is James able to shed light on the dark corners of corporate espionage.
But the story doesn't end here. Another nation-state adversary waits in the shadows, biding their time to strike.
I recommend this read to people interested in international espionage and the shipping industry.
This excellent thriller is filled with sabotages, murders, arms trade, fraud, and embezzlement.
When his company is on the brink of bankruptcy, James goes on a globetrotting adventure to find out the truth and protect the company and his family.
But the journey isn't without perils, and the more he finds out about how deep the conspiracy goes, the more dangerous it is for him and his family.
Only with the help of MI6 is James able to shed light on the dark corners of corporate espionage.
But the story doesn't end here. Another nation-state adversary waits in the shadows, biding their time to strike.
I recommend this read to people interested in international espionage and the shipping industry.
January 27, 2023
Unexpected
Definitely not one I'd pick among others, firstly I'm a sucker for pretty covers 😍 but I entered this giveaway because it was under Thriller category, I had a hard time staying focused within the first half of the book, there was alot of conversations between characters that for me made it hard to piece all that was going on but towards the end it got very interesting and Definitely unexpected I love not being able to predict what will happen next, over all a good read ♡
Definitely not one I'd pick among others, firstly I'm a sucker for pretty covers 😍 but I entered this giveaway because it was under Thriller category, I had a hard time staying focused within the first half of the book, there was alot of conversations between characters that for me made it hard to piece all that was going on but towards the end it got very interesting and Definitely unexpected I love not being able to predict what will happen next, over all a good read ♡
February 28, 2022
A thrilling tale across the world, the deception and conspiracies the main character James faced were enthralling. With the backdrop of the English country side and the drama of a family business under siege, it’s impossible to put down.
April 3, 2022
**GOODREADS WIN** I had a difficult time getting into this book because it just didn't live up to the synopsis. The conversations and dialogues were like those heard in the old movies and TV shows of the 40s and 50s so they didn't ring true. Other reviewers liked it but I'm sorry, I didn't.
April 28, 2022
Very fine writing style. Well developed characters. Ampleased with book 2 of the series as well.
September 24, 2022
Amazing suspense story with twists and turns to keep you guessing what could possibly happen next. Strong characters that draw you in. Fast paced. Can’t wait for the next book.
January 6, 2023
An interesting read
Ross spins an interesting take that gathered momentum as it went. I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next one!
Ross spins an interesting take that gathered momentum as it went. I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next one!
February 27, 2025
In the first few pages , the author seems to rush the character's relationship along fast.
14 Years later, James is in charge Of the Family business, seems to be going downhill fast with accidents after accidents its Either mechanical or human error.
It switches to the Euro asian freight service ship, And the author just kills off the character sultan dastagir right away. I believe because to complain about the condition of the ship.(not sure what part this character and ship plays in this story) It's no wonder with the ship's condition and lack of upkeep in the rough seas.It started taking on water and sank.
So the (hugh)gentleman that owns euro asian fleet is a corrupt individual and has been all his life because of the way he grew up.hugh Would rather just do the bare minimum on fixing his ships Because he's a greedy person. Who cares if The crew die or get injured as long as he's making money. And they are paying off inspectors to give him a clean bill of health on their ship.
You can tell James cares about his employees.He went to see the ones that were hurt and the family of the ones that died and is doing everything possible to help them anyway they need.
Dan Nash And Hugh are like 2 peas in a pod.They're both criminals and will do anything for money, His younger life was not easy either. It seems like all the people that work for hugh are not the best people. Edmond does the finances for the company and he's no better He black
Mails the inspectors And knows nothing about the arms dealing.His bosses do and behind his back.
Now that James know who has been sabotaging them they are on the look out for Dan nash. James was tracking the trucks that Nash was in.He was getting ready to capture him , but the chinese guy's got him first.
With these rumors going around about James's company.The banks are not having good feelings about their accounts with them.
Hugh silent partner is the chinese (Didn't really have a choice having them as partners)and I believe they are the ones that kidnapped nash.Of all the people Hugh could kidnap you kidnaps james wife
Doing all these horrible things just because hes greedy person.
The idea James has to do with his friend's company sounds like a really good investment, so hopefully they can make it work,Merging the two companies land and sea.
When James wife Sarah is kidnapped by hughs friend,James will do anything to get her back before bad things happen to her.james is not to mess with when you you mess with the people he loves. I wish I knew a little bit more about James's backstory. Because I feel like the way he took out those 2 men with a gun And rescue his wife.
So in the end everyone got what they deserved..When I first started the book I was to the point of not finishing it, but I gave it a chance and it was ok to read.it starts of slow but pick up a nice speed. The author has a way with words on describing places and people that I can really imagine it in my head.
(In 1994 it seems like it's kind of expensive to have cell phones and burner phones especially when they're in international waters to make call.) I don't think some things were thought through very well when writing the story but that's just my opinion.
(In chapter 5 page 32. It says that James took notes on his iPad But, ipad didn't come out till 2010 and this is taking place and 1994.in chapter 17 page 103 he pulled up google maps but it didn't come out till 2005.in chapter 20 page 130 it say james took out his phone to take Pic of the guns, i Looked it up the first phone with camera didn't come out till 2000.the last page of the book he plugged in his iphone but they didn'tcome out till 2007.)these are some Inconsistencies with facts.
14 Years later, James is in charge Of the Family business, seems to be going downhill fast with accidents after accidents its Either mechanical or human error.
It switches to the Euro asian freight service ship, And the author just kills off the character sultan dastagir right away. I believe because to complain about the condition of the ship.(not sure what part this character and ship plays in this story) It's no wonder with the ship's condition and lack of upkeep in the rough seas.It started taking on water and sank.
So the (hugh)gentleman that owns euro asian fleet is a corrupt individual and has been all his life because of the way he grew up.hugh Would rather just do the bare minimum on fixing his ships Because he's a greedy person. Who cares if The crew die or get injured as long as he's making money. And they are paying off inspectors to give him a clean bill of health on their ship.
You can tell James cares about his employees.He went to see the ones that were hurt and the family of the ones that died and is doing everything possible to help them anyway they need.
Dan Nash And Hugh are like 2 peas in a pod.They're both criminals and will do anything for money, His younger life was not easy either. It seems like all the people that work for hugh are not the best people. Edmond does the finances for the company and he's no better He black
Mails the inspectors And knows nothing about the arms dealing.His bosses do and behind his back.
Now that James know who has been sabotaging them they are on the look out for Dan nash. James was tracking the trucks that Nash was in.He was getting ready to capture him , but the chinese guy's got him first.
With these rumors going around about James's company.The banks are not having good feelings about their accounts with them.
Hugh silent partner is the chinese (Didn't really have a choice having them as partners)and I believe they are the ones that kidnapped nash.Of all the people Hugh could kidnap you kidnaps james wife
Doing all these horrible things just because hes greedy person.
The idea James has to do with his friend's company sounds like a really good investment, so hopefully they can make it work,Merging the two companies land and sea.
When James wife Sarah is kidnapped by hughs friend,James will do anything to get her back before bad things happen to her.james is not to mess with when you you mess with the people he loves. I wish I knew a little bit more about James's backstory. Because I feel like the way he took out those 2 men with a gun And rescue his wife.
So in the end everyone got what they deserved..When I first started the book I was to the point of not finishing it, but I gave it a chance and it was ok to read.it starts of slow but pick up a nice speed. The author has a way with words on describing places and people that I can really imagine it in my head.
(In 1994 it seems like it's kind of expensive to have cell phones and burner phones especially when they're in international waters to make call.) I don't think some things were thought through very well when writing the story but that's just my opinion.
(In chapter 5 page 32. It says that James took notes on his iPad But, ipad didn't come out till 2010 and this is taking place and 1994.in chapter 17 page 103 he pulled up google maps but it didn't come out till 2005.in chapter 20 page 130 it say james took out his phone to take Pic of the guns, i Looked it up the first phone with camera didn't come out till 2000.the last page of the book he plugged in his iphone but they didn'tcome out till 2007.)these are some Inconsistencies with facts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2022
Eye Opening Fiction!
I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
The Hybrid Enemy shows that business is not going as usual in the world of global shipping, especially for the Macrae company. Sabotage, corporate espionage, and even murder are happening and nothing seems to be done - until James Macrae steps up.
This is a fast moving story with several subplots, and I enjoyed reading it immensely. It has the flair of early Tom Clancy novels without the never-ending technical details, and without the weight of so many pages. This is a novel all should read and consider, especially in light of current affairs in our world. Having lived and traveled in many of the countries mentioned in the novel, I was pleased to read the spot on descriptions of people, places and customs. Ross also gives an introduction into the global transportation industry- something we should all learn more about due to the supply problems caused by COVID 19.
I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
The Hybrid Enemy shows that business is not going as usual in the world of global shipping, especially for the Macrae company. Sabotage, corporate espionage, and even murder are happening and nothing seems to be done - until James Macrae steps up.
This is a fast moving story with several subplots, and I enjoyed reading it immensely. It has the flair of early Tom Clancy novels without the never-ending technical details, and without the weight of so many pages. This is a novel all should read and consider, especially in light of current affairs in our world. Having lived and traveled in many of the countries mentioned in the novel, I was pleased to read the spot on descriptions of people, places and customs. Ross also gives an introduction into the global transportation industry- something we should all learn more about due to the supply problems caused by COVID 19.
January 23, 2025
I received this book in return for a review.
"The Hybrid Enemy" is a story of Chairman of a family owned shipping company dealing with a ruthless competitor, owned by a career criminal whose own business is being taken over by the Chinese government. The protagonist begins by dealing with a string of accidents in various shipyards owned by his company, which result in deaths, injuries and loss of business . In addition, his own company's CFO is undermining the finances and setting the company up to be taken over by the competitor. Overall, this is a pretty good story and will keep you interested for the most part. I thought some of the dialog was a little bit trite, and the story could have done without the Chinese element.
"The Hybrid Enemy" is a story of Chairman of a family owned shipping company dealing with a ruthless competitor, owned by a career criminal whose own business is being taken over by the Chinese government. The protagonist begins by dealing with a string of accidents in various shipyards owned by his company, which result in deaths, injuries and loss of business . In addition, his own company's CFO is undermining the finances and setting the company up to be taken over by the competitor. Overall, this is a pretty good story and will keep you interested for the most part. I thought some of the dialog was a little bit trite, and the story could have done without the Chinese element.
May 27, 2025
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
The best book I've read in a long time. I didn't want to put it down.
Never in his wildest imagination did James ever think his family's company would be the target for a takeover, and it’s being done in the most despicable and heinous way possible. And even worst, someone on the inside is providing the help to make it happen.
Sabotage and espionage, murder and back stabbing. This book kept me riveted to the story. With someone in the shadows pulling the strings, James Macrae, head of his family’s generations’ old shipping company, will find himself doing the unimaginable when it comes to salvaging his company and its reputation, as well as protecting those he loves.
The best book I've read in a long time. I didn't want to put it down.
Never in his wildest imagination did James ever think his family's company would be the target for a takeover, and it’s being done in the most despicable and heinous way possible. And even worst, someone on the inside is providing the help to make it happen.
Sabotage and espionage, murder and back stabbing. This book kept me riveted to the story. With someone in the shadows pulling the strings, James Macrae, head of his family’s generations’ old shipping company, will find himself doing the unimaginable when it comes to salvaging his company and its reputation, as well as protecting those he loves.
March 22, 2022
This book was recommended by a friend, and Richard D. Ross is my new favorite author. I normally don't read fiction but I just could not put this book down. The character development got me hooked and really invested in the story. The plot is great with constant twists and turns, I just couldn't stop reading it. Great writing, great story, awesome ending...I was actually a little sad once I finished it because I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for book 2. Highly recommended!
June 26, 2023
This was a book that I received free from Goodreads earlier in the year, but somehow it got lost in my Kindle downloads and I just started reading it yesterday and finished today. It was a very fast-paced book, full of information about international transportation and industrial sabotage, yet there was also a personal aspect with it being a family owned and operated business. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it!
January 25, 2024
THE HYBRID ENEMY is the first book I’ve read by Richard D. Ross. It has a different kind of thriller hero, James Macrae, who happens to be in the global transportation business. And it is against this backdrop that Ross weaves an interesting story about international intrigue, betrayal, and cutthroat tactics to bankrupt a successful family-owned business experiencing a variety of mysterious accidents. The writing is good, and overall was a solid, enjoyable thriller.
January 25, 2025
I debated between a 3 and a 4 star review because of the writing but I landed on 4 because the action truly picked up in the second half of the book. The shipping world was confusing to me and bogged down the story in places. The pace definitely gained steam and had some good twists and turns although I had one of the bad guys figured out early. All in all a decent read and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review - thanks to the Author, publisher, and goodreads for this chance.
May 18, 2023
Thank you Goodreads for this great win. It was a wonderful read.
Richard is a new author to me and I thoroughly enjoyed this first novel, It was full of intrigue, sabotage and a true thriller. I felt it related to our world today. It kept me turning the page from page one and I didn't want to put it down. Looking forward to book two.
Richard is a new author to me and I thoroughly enjoyed this first novel, It was full of intrigue, sabotage and a true thriller. I felt it related to our world today. It kept me turning the page from page one and I didn't want to put it down. Looking forward to book two.
August 26, 2023
WOW!!
It took a bit to get going, but once I started to understand, the story took over. So many characters, it was difficult to keep them sorted, and increasing suspense as the parts came together. I would recommend this story to anyone who likes intrigue, suspense, and thoughtful development of a plot.
It took a bit to get going, but once I started to understand, the story took over. So many characters, it was difficult to keep them sorted, and increasing suspense as the parts came together. I would recommend this story to anyone who likes intrigue, suspense, and thoughtful development of a plot.
January 18, 2025
Good plot, painful dialogue
Ross weaves an intricate plot of international espionage and sabotage that leaves the reader eager to read what happens next. Unfortunately, far to much of the exposition comes in the form of stilted dialogue. As a result, it's hard to actually care about the characters or to sympathize with the protagonist's excesses.
Ross weaves an intricate plot of international espionage and sabotage that leaves the reader eager to read what happens next. Unfortunately, far to much of the exposition comes in the form of stilted dialogue. As a result, it's hard to actually care about the characters or to sympathize with the protagonist's excesses.
May 3, 2023
This book seemed y to have some false starts. It begins with James meeting Sarah and then proceeds to follow the international troubles of James MacRae’s business. Somewhat of an international spy and business thriller, the book seemed to take up some themes that were too easily concluded.
February 28, 2025
The writing was boring. The conversations were stiff and cliche. The story itself, a chaotic attempt at ripping off other action stories. But the most annoyingly bad part, THE KIDNAPPED WOMAN ASKING HER CAPTORS FOR TOILETRIES AND TAMPAX. What a misogynistic, complete out of touch moment.
December 20, 2022
It was well written, but I could not get involved with the characters or the situation as presented in the first four chapters. So, I stopped reading.
July 7, 2024
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway and at first I didn't think I would enjoy it. But it kept my attention and I ended up reading it pretty quickly
June 15, 2024
The book had an interesting story but it was way too technical about shipping stuff for me. The details were a lot and more than I needed. However the story was good
July 22, 2024
This is an interesting plot for a story and the characters are well developed. It held my interest as I was reading it.
Thanks for the free book.
Thanks for the free book.
May 22, 2023
This was a Goodreads giveaway win for me. The storyline was good, but the writing and dialogue was a little too simplistic for my preference. It was very "Dick and Jane" for grown ups to me. I did have a difficult time getting invested in the characters due to this.
December 12, 2023
Good Storyline
Interesting insight into the maritime industry and maritime industry espionage and crime. Very good storyline. The character dialogue could be more natural.
Interesting insight into the maritime industry and maritime industry espionage and crime. Very good storyline. The character dialogue could be more natural.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews