As with all of Tom Clancy's books, this was excellent. Strong characters, well-developed plot, lots of action and intrigue.

Tom Clancy can do no wrong!  Always enjoy his books and this one is no exception.  Great Jack Ryan read!

Jack Ryan Sr. is the president of the United States and Jack Ryan Jr. works undercover as an operative for Hendley Associates. It has been a long time since I have read the Tom Clancy books, and I have even weeded them from library shelves (some titles), but it is obvious that this franchise still has a following. For those who are still followers, and/or like spy and military fiction, this may be a very satisfying read. Much of the action takes place in Barcelona, Spain, where Jack Jr. tries to solve the killing of an old friend. Meanwhile, the president is dealing with a crisis where international cargo ships are being blown up (who?). But there is something even bigger going on.

Although a big fan of the movies based on Jack Ryan, I have not read any of the books.  I love the fast-paced action driving from scene to scene, moment to moment.  This book carried that similar feel - almost demanding to be read in one sitting (if one could).  The purpose of Jack Jr.'s self appointed mission is heartwarming.  How appropriate that Jack Jr.'s intervention would be needed or have WWIII ensue!   Finally, I understood the cover picture's relation to the story.  Totally enjoyable!

Digital copy provided by Netgalley. Thank you!

The 29th book in the Jack Ryan universe starts with a bang. Literally. Jack Ryan Jr. takes some time off from The Campus to explore the history and culture of Barcelona. On his last evening, he runs into an old friend from college, Renee Moore, in a small café. As they part ways, the lingering possibility their relationship may rekindle ends abruptly with an explosion that kills Moore, along with many others. Ryan decides to extend his trip until he catches the people responsible. In the meantime, President Ryan deals with the mysterious sinking of vessels in the south Pacific that may escalate to a worldwide threat.

To come up with new techno-thriller novel plots that are simultaneously treacherous, interesting, and original, is a challenge in itself. The world is full of threats but it’s the ones no one thinks about that do the most damage.

Continue reading in the June edition of The Big Thrill.

A solid addition to the Jack Ryan Jr series with a look at how political issues can be hijacked by those with ulterior motives. Jack Jr is back and in fighting form, and the timeliness of the plot lines give him more depth. Vivid descriptions of time and place bring the reader right into the action.

480 pages

4 and 1 / 2 stars

Jack Ryan, Jr. is enjoying his vacation in Barcelona when he runs into an old friend at a bar. They make arrangements to meet for coffee later and Jack leaves the bar. Seconds later, the building explodes. Jack rushes back in to see about his friend Renee Moore and finds her barely conscious. She whispers the word “Sammler,” and then dies. 

Jack is determined to find out who killed his friend. 

While the police are seeing Jack as a suspect, they are soon overruled by the Spanish Intelligence Service. After sparring a bit with the woman intellgence officer, Jack sets out on his own to look for Renee's killer. 

What he uncovers is an enormous conspiracy that has global ramifications. 

With the invaluable help of the Campus' IT guy, Jack, Clark, Ding and the rest of the crew set out to track down and capture their suspects. 

This book is a thrill ride. I've always enjoyed the Jack Ryan series and this book is no exception. Mike Maden sure does justice to the Tom Clancy legacy. I enjoy the high tech gadgets described as well as the human side. The characters are consistent throughout these books. That is a plus in any series. I also like the thread that runs through all of these novels: loyalty, duty, honor.

I want to thank NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam/G.P. Putnam's Sons for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.

The fourth contribution by Mike Maden gets a standing ovation in keeping Tom Clancy alive in the hearts and minds of fans everywhere.
Following the passing of Tom Clancy authors such as Mike Maden have taken the front seat to bring us a level of excitement that's unmatched and beautifully written in his own style.
Firing Point hits the mark literally and figuratively as we embark on a suicide bomber who blows himself up just minutes after they meet in a cafe. 
Renee was Jack Ryan Jr.'s old friend and it was this surprise encounter that truly set the ball rolling as she seemed quite irritated and alarmed but nothing registered until it was all over as she utters one word,"Sammler."
Revenge, truth, and facts is all that's on Jack's mind but first he must get rid of the bs from those who initially believed he was suspect.
As the Spanish Intel is called off we uncover that Renee may have had more secrets that could have precisely gotten her killed.
This was a fab read that I truly enjoyed. Quick, decisive, explosive action with thickening plot, spyware galore, and the front line spotlighted fears.
Could this prey be too big for its britches or will this be the one that got away?
Thank you to Mike, the pub, NetGalley, and Kindle for this ARC in exchange for this honest review.