This is the third in the Nora Carleton series by James Comey and while I enjoyed it, I didn’t find it as compelling as the previous two installments.

Nora, Benny and their team of attorneys and agents working to put away a “radical conservative” get embroiled in a very complex case. Again, it was interesting and I love the personal relationships (Benny and Teresa, Nora and Demi) I found the case to be full of acronyms and more complex legal wranglings than I was prepared to deal with in a piece of fiction

A good read, hoping for more in this series. .

Such a well paced and suspenseful book! The twists were believable and not predictable.
It had excellent writing and a fascinating plot.
FDR Drive by James Comey is a book which kept me thoroughly engaged from beginning to end.
A n intriguing legal thriller.

FDR Drive is not a book you pick up for light, casual reading. It’s the kind you settle in for with a cup of coffee, ready to navigate the corridors of legal and political intrigue. And yes, I understand why some readers may balk at his work; the author himself carries enough baggage to trigger strong reactions. But setting that aside, if you’ve been following the Nora Carleton series, this one pulls you in from the first chapters. The tension is immediate, the stakes high, and before you know it, you’re flipping pages deep into the night.

Some criticize the book for being too complicated and too dense. That, I don’t understand. If you pick up a political-legal thriller from someone who’s been a power insider, it’s fair to expect complexity. Comey doesn’t spoon-feed; he expects the reader to keep up. And while I may not be a lawyer, I’ve watched enough Law & Order to hold my own and this book certainly tests that focus.

The real heart of FDR Drive, though, is the dilemma it presents: Where does free speech end, and culpability begin? The novel threads together real-world concerns about podcasters being charged with incitement, existential threats, and online radicalization. It forces the reader to ask tough questions: should a podcaster be held responsible for the actions of their audience? If someone names a name, drops an address, or expresses outrage, does that implicate them in the act that follows? And what about the puppet masters behind the scenes, the people who feed the information -- are they just as guilty? These are questions with no easy answers, ones that could spark heated discussions in a book club, assuming you’re all still on speaking terms by the end.

By the third book in the series, Nora Carleton, and the characters around her feel like people you want to see make it to the next day. This isn’t a simple read. It demands patience, attention, and a willingness to wade through moral complexity. But if you’re up for the challenge, FDR Drive delivers a thought-provoking, layered narrative that sticks with you long after the final page.

Another Nora and Benny book, continuing the saga of honest US Justice Department and FBI officers in the pre-Bondi and pre-Patel days. The first main bad was a right-wing podcaster who was fine with inspiring his followers to murder and maim people he attacked on his show. Reminded me of what Rush Limbaugh would have evolved into. The money-backing bad was reminiscent of a money-backer we are all too familiar with now. Thanks to James Comey for continuing this series.

New York City Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Nora Carleton, at least for me, wasn't an immediately lovable character when I "met" her in the first book of this series (this is the third). But by now, I enjoy her so much that I'd be delighted to sit, chat and have a beer or two with her (accompanied, hopefully, by her investigator Benny Dugan, whom I adored from the git-go).

With Nora are her mother (who, BTW, has a particularly special love interest) and young daughter Sophie. The plot centers around a wildly popular radio show host/podcaster who makes Paul Harvey sound like a flaming liberal. Samuel Buchanan is known for singling out specific people he believes are so far left that they'd fall off the earth if it were square, but even coming from one of those flaming liberals like me, so what? He's got a right to speak his opinion. Except, perhaps, when those people he names turn up dead almost immediately after he singles them out. That's the challenge for Nora and her team, then - to convince a judge Buchanan should face trial and, if that happens, offer up enough evidence to get him convicted. Meanwhile, the police - some of whom are Nora's good friends - will try their best to find who's actually committing the murders.

It all adds up to an intriguing (not to mention timely) situation, making the pages fly by. Admittedly, I'm a fan of legal thrillers, so anything that happens in a court of law always gets my undivided attention. At times, I'll admit I felt a bit "talked down to" with explanations of things that really didn't need explaining, but on the other hand, making sure everyone who reads the book fully comprehends what's going on isn't a bad thing. Along the way readers get an up-close-and-personal look at the workings of the legal system as well as a closer look at Nora's personal life (complete with an event that bodes well for the next book in the series).

And speaking of that, I hope another one will be forthcoming soon. Meantime, I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review this one. Well done once again!

FDR Drive is the third book in the Nora Carleton series by @comey. Like the first two books in the series, FDR Drive begins with an attention grabbing event and continues to be a fast paced crime thriller that makes you glad it is a work of fiction but worried that it comes close to the truth of federal investigations.

This book has federal prosecutor, Nora, and federal investigator, Benny, in New York. This investigation hits close to the current political climate in the United States and explores themes of hate, including hateful speech, as well as domestic terrorism.

If you enjoy crime thrillers that could be actual feasible events, then I highly recommend checking out this book.

In the book FDR Drive, author James Comey writes about Nora Carleton who has returned to her role as a New York City federal prosecutor. She’s returned just in time to face a dangerous domestic terror attack in the city. Working with the FBI and legendary investigator Benny Dugan, Nora is working to build a case against podcaster and white supremacist Sam Buchanan. Can they stop the attack? This was an ok story. I expected more since this is Comey’s third book in the series. Like his first two books, the story was predictable and the characters who are suppose to be very smart, made simple mistakes. It seems like Comey’s writing is getting worse with each book instead of better. I’m not sure I would recommend this book. I received a copy of this ebook from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A topical and twisty legal thriller that while the third in a series will be just fine as a standalone. Nora is now the Deputy US Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) and Benny is her determined investigator (and potential step father). They've been through a lot but this time they're working an innovative case involving a podcaster-Sam Buchanan-whose broadcasts have led to the murder of at least six people. Can he be prosecuted? Can a jailhouse informant's information be used (this is an especially interesting angle)? Know that Buchanan and his girlfriend spout a lot of rhetoric that will sound familiar. This has terrific characters not only in Nora and Benny but also in Matthew Post, an old friend of Benny who finds himself representing Buchanan. I know Comey carries a weight but he's a very good storyteller who creates interesting situations and characters. And best of all, you like me, will learn something about criminal procedure as well as the Sixth Amendment. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Great read.

This one started slow, but gained my attention and then it was pretty action-packed the rest of the way. I have enjoyed all of Comey's books in this series, and this was no exception. I highly recommend this series to anyone that enjoys FBI, courts, and good characters.

James Comey's Legal Expertise is Evident in This Nora Carlton Thriller

I was a close follower of James Comey’s legal career, so I was intrigued when he turned to fiction. In Central Park West, Nora Carlton—an incisive, principled federal prosecutor—takes on a Manhattan murder case with ties to organized crime and political corruption.The follow-up, Westport, shifts to Connecticut suburbia, where Nora becomes lead counsel at the world’s largest hedge-fund. When a coworker is murdered and she becomes the main suspect.
Now, in FDR Drive, Nora returns to the U.S. Attorney’s Office just as a surge of far-right domestic terrorism threatens New York City. She again works alongside U.S. Attorney Carmen Garcia to investigate a provocative media figure whose inflammatory rhetoric—and named targets—appear to have inspired real-world violence. Nora also reunites legendary investigator Benny Dugan to help prevent a catastrophic attack. There’s a lot of plot to track, but the stakes feel urgent and disturbingly plausible.
Comey leans into his authenticity—offering readers a smart, high-stakes legal thriller that feels pulled from tomorrow’s headlines. That said, the procedural detail occasionally verges on overkill—acronyms and interagency jargon stack up fast. Yet even with that density, the dialogue often crackles with dry humor and a sense of inside-the-room access. Asked what is grinding her down, Garcia replies: “Washington. They never stop trying to recover turf they think we stole in the Roosevelt administration of some [expletive deleted]. Teddy Roosevelt, by the way.”
While the book occasionally strains under the weight of its own intelligence, it rewards readers with an urgent compelling blend of political thriller and legal drama.

3.5 stars

Interesting book!

This is my first time reading this author, so I wasn't sure what to expect. After reading it and reflecting, I think it is probably written closer to reality than some police procedurals.

The story is consistent with the current political climate and doesn't try to be other than a gritty representation of an outspoken radio/podcast host who uses his followers to get his messages out there. Nora is a district attorney who works closely with the FBI to convict Buchanan of murder via the violence he incites. I hadn't read any other books in the series, so all the main characters were new to me, but I liked getting to know them.

I think this book will appeal to anyone who enjoys police/detective stores, avidly watches the news and has an opinion on current events.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

Nora Carlton has left her job in the private sector and returned to working as a Deputy United States Attorney in NYC. Her friend and former co-worker, Benny Dugon, is now an investigator working with Nora and her team.

Recently, there have been several violent attacks on private citizens, and several murders, that are believed to be the result of popular Podcaster Sam Buchanan spreading hatred and bigotry to his listeners - all the while claiming innocence and “wrapping himself in his first amendment rights”.Buchanan calls people out by names when he doesn’t approve of their life style, insisting to his listeners that action must be taken, and “they” must be stopped. His ranting and naming of these victims has resulted in several murders that the government believes are not coincidences. But what might happen if Buchanan’s comments and listeners get out of hand and threaten the city?

When rumors of an attack on an event at the United Nations surface, Nora, Benny and their team find themselves working to determine who is behind the attack and stop it - before it actually begins.

This is James Comey’s third legal thriller in his Nora Carlton Crime Series. This book focuses on political extremism, domestic terrorism and racially motivated violence. One of my favorite things in reading Comey's crime series is trying to determine how much of what appears in the story actually happened in real life. I've read that Comey insists that he adds just enough factual information into his books about what happened and the goings on at the FBI to go up to the line - without ever crossing it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This has been a great mystery and crime series. I hope that Comey takes it further. Special thanks to #NetGalley #JamesComey and #TheMysteriousPress for an advanced copy #ARC
Publication date: May 20, 2025

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Nora and Benny are back! i am really enjoying this crime/ legal thriller series from former FBI director James Comey. With his insight into the dark side of the criminal justice system, this is an eye opening, riveting story that kept me glued to the pages.

FDR Drive is a ripped from the headlines story and it really is scary to think that this could happen in today’s world. A radio talk show host is accused of inciting violence against people that he believes are not good for America. We have quite a lot of courtroom drama in this book which I loved. Nothing more fun to read than a juicy trial . With the experience that the author has, it was written so well, very realistic and I felt as though I was in the room with them.

Fabulous reading, I look forward to book 4 already.

Thanks so much Penzler Publishing for my early copy of this book to read. Out May 20th.

FDR Drive by James Comey. While I enjoyed the book it was a good example of there being too many government agencies. I think the first part of the book could be smoother because of this. I enjoyed all the characters and look forward to a next book in this series. Thanks to NetGalley for the early read.

I've said it before, and it bears repeating.....this man can write! Another outstanding book by the former FBI Director, James Comey. This particular book is the third in the Nora Carleton/Benny Dugan series. And I hope and pray that Comey keeps the series going!
This book could be ripped out of today's headlines! A over-caffeinated, obnoxious, right wing radio talk show host (take your pick of the many out there) is being prosecuted for inciting the murders of several people who had the audacity to disagree with him. Add in the suspense of who financed the loud mouth, a terroristic bombing, and you're left with an eminently readable and enjoyable book.
Plus, Comey continues to develop the main characters, Nora and Benny. They have grown into very believable and well fleshed out people.
Plus plus...Comey uses his incredible knowledge of the workings of the judicial system, as well as the FBI, to excite the minds of legal beagles and former law enforcement types like me!
I know that Mr. Comey is a lightning rod for conspiracy addicts. I would be willing to bet that he wishes that his law enforcement career had ended differently, that he never became involved with the political side. However, he is a rare man in that he did what he believed was right, and didn't back down. For that, I will always admire him. And besides, if things hadn't of worked out the way they have, he probably never would have became the great author that he is!
This is one of my favorite books (along with his other two volumes) that I have read in a long, long time!

Following the success of Central Park West and Westport, Comey’s third fiction outing promises a high-stakes plunge into New York City’s legal and political underbelly, tackling domestic extremism with his insider’s lens.

Written by a former FBI director, this book drips with authenticity and realism. Reading page after page makes you feel like a political insider, and I caught myself up too late devouring the pages until the scintillating finish. If you like FBI thrillers, this is a book that should not be missed. Run to the bookstore when this book comes out on May 20th. You will not be disappointed.

This was topical and thought provoking. Many aspects hit a little too close to home, especially with the horrors/reality of Trump’s 2nd presidency. I really enjoyed reading it and didn’t want to put it down. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC!

I recently read FDR Drive by James Comey. This is a complicated story involving terrorism in New York. Told as a legal thriller, it is a slow burn. There are plenty of characters to meet and legal terms to learn, with revelations along the way. Taking much from recent past and current politics, shades of Comey's real-life shine through. A bit slower in the beginning as the reader learns the situation and those effected but the pacing increasing as the bulk of the story starts to unfold. If you like the legal world and thrillers, as I do, this is for you. An interesting read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the Mysterious Press for an advanced copy.

As a fan of the previous books in this series, I was happy to get the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book thanks to the publisher and NetGalley. Reading this book just after Trump's 2nd inauguration was scary for me. Many of the "villains" in this book seemed very much like Trump and his media cronies, and it made the fictitious events in the book look like they could become reality. There are a lot of ethical issues that arose in the book that made it quite thought-provoking. I think it could be an interesting choice for book discussions groups. I enjoyed reading more about the continuing characters, although this book focused less than the others on their personal lives. There were a lot of new characters to keep track of, and there were too many acronyms for the average layman. Nevertheless, I appreciated Comey's insight and knowledge. I think this is must-read! I continue to be impressed with Comey's skills as an author.

Thanks to NetGalley and Penzler Publishers for the advanced reader copy.

3.5 stars

No matter what I may think of James Comey, from his federal law enforcement days, he can write a solid political thriller. Nora Carleton is a fun character to follow and in this latest iteration she's back in NYC, with her mother and daughter, trying to stop a domestic terror attack. Comey does a nice job of letting the reader peek behind the Quantico curtain and in making very complex happenings feel sufficiently simplified. My two pecadillos with FDR DRIVE are that we see one glimpse of Demi, Nora's police chief girlfriend, in a scene that likely could've been cut for the little that it brings to the overall story or even character development. The second is the awkwardness of the dialogue, which often comes across as wooden and definitely pulled me out of the flow of the story a lot. But those are small quibbles; I'll certainly pick up the next Nora Carleton story from Comey.

FDR Drive comes out May 20, 2025