James Comey is back! Another thrilling outing with Nora Carlton. This is shaping up to be an epic serious and I eagerly anticipate the next one

It's the third in the Nora Carleton series and provides a new reader with sufficient backstory and character development to read as a standalone. I appreciate its contemporary relevance and authentic details that immerse you in intense legal arguments and impactful action scenes. I like the characterisation and the insightful writing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

Well, alrighty then. Mr Comey sure made me sit up and take note this time. Just a few pages into FDR Drive and I was already feeling a mix of what the heck, you can't do that, and this is surely not allowed. It's one of those openers. I mean, the tension is there building right from the start. You can feel it like a pulse in the air, and with a team clearly watching a prime location in New York City - FDR Drive, being home to the United Nations - for what we can assume is expected to be the worst kind of disruption, when I found myself hit with the mother of all surprises, leaving me really worried about what might be to come.

Do we get resolution in those first few pages? Do we heck. James Comey takes us back a short leap in time to bring us up to speed with what happened in the days leading up to that all too shocking moment, and the reasons why all eyes were fixed on the UN. But, if you think this is likely to be some straight forward political thriller, think again. There is political context in the story, especially given the current state of affairs in the US, scenes the likes of which I never thought I'd see in my lifetime. And, I have no doubt that certain events in the not so distant past have very much inspired what happens in the novel, and the mindset of the people behind the violence, but this is not an inherently American problem that James Comey has focused on as the premise of his latest novel. This is a book about extremism. About the rise of hate speech, particularly over the still relatively unregulated social media platforms and podcasts, and the way in which words can be used to incite violence, whilst hiding behind the claims that they were never intended to cause harm and that the speaker is entirely innocent of any accusations levied against them to the contrary. Yeah. I have no clue where he got that plot idea from either ...

I have loved all of the books in the Nora Carleton series and FDR Drive is possibly my most and least favourite of the three, if that is even possible. I love the characters that James Comey has created, from fiercely determined Prosecutor, Nora, Miss Smooth to her good friend, Benny, aka Mr Rough. The pair make a formidable team, and when you add in fellow Prosecutor Sean Fitzpatrick, their boss, Carmen Garcia and FBI Special Agent, Jessica Watson and this book was filled with such a wealth of brilliant personalities on the side of the good guys, I was completely invested in their case. Especially after that opening. Even Nora's extended family, Mom Teresa, and her rapidly maturing daughter, Sophie, play a key part in how the story progresses, but their presence in the book, and by extension, Nora's case, works perfectly. And when you look to the dark side, defence Lawyer, Matthew Parker, podcaster and accused, Sam Buchanan, and his layer girlfriend, Riley Pond, and the cast of characters is so rich, so authentic, they probably elicited every possible emotion from me at some point. Largely anger when it comes to Buchanan, I'll admit, but there you have it. Are we even meant to like the bad guy?

This is a story of racism taken to the extreme. To the right of the American citizen to determine who may, or may not, live and work in their country, as long as the deciding American happens to be a caucasian native. Of the way in which online content, be it social media or podcasts, can often be weaponised. A kind of call to arms if you like, exaggerating the sense of discourse and disenfranchisement of the few and inciting dark, and sometimes deadly action. And in these cases, who is responsible? The person who planted the seed or the person who committed the act of violence? That is the question that Nora and co need to answer as they attempt to prosecute Buchanan for inciting violent acts against a number of citizens who were attacked, or in some cases murdered, after he had called them out on air. And when the case takes a very personal turn for more than one of them, you can really feel the determination to secure a conviction elevate to the next level.

James Comey's past, his experience, adds so much authenticity to this novel, and his pitch perfect pacing and ability to capture the dramatic, and sometimes emotion moments, so well, kept me completely glued to the page (and audiobook) from start to finish. Yes, there are some dark moments, but also a lot of banter back and forth between Benny and his colleagues which keeps things the right side of the line. This would have been a one sitting read/listen if it hadn't been for the pesky day job, but as it was I finished it in two days and have only been left wanting more. The final chapters were full of tension and jeopardy, the conclusion probably the best way this book could have played out. Definitely satisfying, that's for sure. Was justice served? Well, you can read or listen and judge for yourself. Definitely recommended as is the whole series.

Another good read from Comey who, as former director of the FBI, is well placed to write thrillers which are true to the inner workings of the FBI and the American justice system.

I enjoyed catching up with Nora and Benny and the rest of the cast, but I didn’t enjoy the storyline as much as the first two.

I will still be reading the next one from Mr Comey.

4.5 stars
A fascinating thrill ride of a read from the very start. FDR Drive is another gripping legal thriller from James Comey and I loved being back in the world of Nora and Benny.
This time the team are trying to stem the tide of hate speech and extremism whilst navigating their own lives and loves in this very modern world.
The legal world is so vividly explained and I love seeing how the justice system in America is played out between the various departments involved.
The characters in a James Comey book are always such an important part of the story and Nora and her family plus Benny and the team play such a pivotal role in the book.

A very good thriller. The plot is very enjoyable. My only pet peeve is that it's a bit hard to follow from time to time.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I love a legal thriller and having read the first two Nora Carleton books, I was really looking forward to FDR Drive. Comey, the former FBI Director, brings a unique authenticity to the genre, drawing from his extensive experience both as a former prosecutor and latterly as FBI Director.

The story follows Nora Carleton who serves as a prosecutor in New York’s Southern District while she handles a dangerous domestic right-wing extremist case. Nora enters a complicated investigation after the United Nations rally explosion forces her to navigate between free speech protections and violent incitement laws. The plot structure remains tight throughout the story which maintained my attention throughout the entire narrative. The author’s direct experience in the legal system combined with his inclusion of FBI Headquarters details, such as separate lifts exclusively for FBI personnel, adds depth to the story while references to the January 6th uprising make it really credible.

The main character Nora Carleton presents an engaging personality through her intelligent nature, her strong determination and absolute dedication to justice. The seasoned investigator Benny Dugan along with multiple FBI agents form well-developed supporting characters who help the team solve this case.

The story examines vital matters of contemporary America through its exploration of political extremism and democratic challenges. Samuel Buchanan operates as a right-wing podcaster who uses his broadcasting platform to distribute false information and hateful speech that leads to violent actions. Through his exploration of protected speech boundaries Comey makes you consider the responsibilities that accompany freedom of expression. The novel explores themes that match the current political climate especially during a second term Trump administration in America, creating true engagement as well as real sympathy for those who are impacted by hate speech.

The courtroom scenes demonstrate exceptional skill in portraying legal complexities together with the tactical actions of both prosecution and defence teams.

Verdict: James Comey’s FDR Drive is a great addition to the legal thriller genre, offering a narrative that is both entertaining and socially relevant. With well-drawn characters, a fast-paced plot, and themes that mirror contemporary issues, the novel is a compelling and fast paced read.

This is book three featuring federal prosecutor Nora Carlton and her investigator Benny Dugan so, for full and maximum enjoyment, I do recommend you start from book one and read in order. That said, the main story is self contained, but you would lose out on all the interconnections and character development if you read as a stand alone.
So... in this book we centre around a rather nasty radio talk show host who holds very extreme far right views which he is not shy at broadcasting. He also targets certain individuals and suggests the world would be better off without them. Then, surprise surprise, something happens to these individuals. Nora's task is to bring him down. To make him responsible for his words. But to do that she has to prove that he knew what he was doing, Knew his words would be acted on.
And so begins a rather interesting and intriguing, as well as poignant and topical (see Lucy Connolly) case which held my attention nicely all the way through - even through the court case part which was a slower section.
Outwith the main crime we also follow Nora at home with daughter and her mum who is dating Benny! These parts add colour to and respite from the nasty crimes being depicted herein, as well as eventually merging with but I'll leave you to find out how!
I do love this series, it is written by the former director of the FBI and, as such, he definitely knows his onions, even though I am not sure where the US stands on the whole hate speech prosecution thing, it doesn't half make for a compelling book.
All in all a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be a great series, roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

Slightly disappointing. I didn't enjoy this as much as Central Park West. Although Comey's style is not always easy to follow, I found the colloquial language particularly so. Unfortunately this book wasn't for me but many will enjoy it.

A megalomaniac who screams white privilege. Damns all other skin tones, religions and sexualities.
Encites his followers to attack named individuals. Resulting in a string of deaths.
Can he be prosecuted? Under what law?
Follow the case and the key players.
Characters will make you cheer and others repluse you.
A fascinating and interesting book. Didn't realise this was the third in a series but I will now be looking out for the previous books

Thanks to Head of Zeus, Aries Fiction, the author and NetGalley for an digital ARC in return for an honest opinion

Judging by other reviews this looks like it is going to be another besteller for the Ex-FBI Director. I've been told that it's ok to jump into this book with no prior knowledge of the series - this being book 3 - as Comey provides enough background for new readers to understand the characters and context. I'm looking forward to getting stuck into this, as any book that gets the seal of approval from Ian Rankin AND Harlan Coben must be worth a read!

#FDRDrive #NetGalley

FDR Drive is a sharp and timely legal thriller that explores the chilling rise of domestic extremism through the eyes of federal prosecutor Nora Carleton. After time away in the corporate world, Nora’s return to public service places her in the centre of one of the city’s most dangerous threats.

With the help of seasoned investigator Benny Dugan, Nora confronts a network of far-right extremists whose influence stretches from online platforms to real-world violence. The story moves at pace, blending courtroom drama with high-stakes investigative work as Nora must build a case before the extremists strike again.

Comey’s background brings authenticity to the legal and procedural elements, giving the story weight and credibility. The themes of radicalisation, digital manipulation and the fine line between free speech and incitement are tackled with care and urgency.

Gripping, tense and disturbingly plausible, FDR Drive is more than a thriller. It is a wake-up call, grounded in reality, and made all the more unsettling for it. A solid and compelling read for anyone interested in legal fiction with a strong social conscience.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

3.5/5.

If you enjoy John Grisham books and legal thrillers then you will love FDR Drive and other books in the Nora Carlton series.

It’s expertly written thanks to Comey’s extensive knowledge from his time as a United States Attorney in New York, Deputy Attorney General in the DoJ, and as Director of the FBI. The books are littered with acronyms of specific departments in law enforcement, which I find really informative and immerses you in the area along with the characters.

The characters are top notch, though a little cliched as there is a clear distinction in the way the good guys and bad guys are portrayed. But that’s not to say that both sides are written poorly. The villains are fleshed out characters with very realistic motives that are emblematic of the hyper-partisan World we live in.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and is a great author to look out for in the legal thriller genre. If he carries on he will become one of the great legal thrillers writers of today, and he certainly is not far aware from that achievement.

With thanks to NetGalley and the published for an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I found this an extremely difficult book to follow. I have no knowledge of New York and had no sense of location at all. I tried to follow on Google Maps but it was impossible. I was very disappointed I was unable to get in to the story at all.

No one in America has been there and done it more than former FBI director James Comey and in his third novel in the Nora Carleton series, he delivers again with his unique insights into the world of the FBI. Love this series and can't wait for the next one

The third novel in the series involving DUSA (Deputy United States Attorney) Nora Carleton and her amazing eclectic team at the Southern District of New York. Nora is a prosecutor for the federal government and this time her case is a complex one revolving around the issue of freedom of speech. Nora believes individuals should be accountable for their actions, albeit verbal rather than physical.

Briefly, radio and podcast host Simon Buchanan spurts out hell and brimstone every week particularly concentrating on modern day issues facing the USA. Is it just coincidence that every time he picks on a particular person that individual is killed or badly injured? At the same time extremists are planning a major attack on democracy in New York.

I really enjoy this authors books. He uses his personal knowledge from his time at the FBI to write powerful novels which seem all too real. The writing is sharp, the plots are authentic and I really like his characters. It feels like a very relevant storyline at this period of time in American history. I live in Britain so I’m not fully aware of the political environment in America but it all seems very chilling right now. A fast paced legal thriller that I really enjoyed.

A good legal thriller written by an author who knows what he is talking about, which as he is the former director of the FBI, is not surprising. Nora is an excellent well drawn character, and the story is good as well.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for giving me a copy of the book.

I enjoyed this author’s previous book Westport, but I found this one a little harder to get into. However it was very real and believable and the characters were well developed, even if there were a lot of them to keep track of. A solid story that demands your attention. Thank you to Netgalley for the advance reader copy.

This is the first Nora Carlton tale that I have read so I probably need to catch up on the others. An interesting legal story with some great courtroom scenes about how it’s possible to accuse someone of violent crimes they are nowhere near. The cast of main characters are clearly from the earlier stories so I really need to read them as previous cases are spoken of early in this one. Still an intriguing good read with the ultimate happy ending!

I was thrilled to receive an ARC of FDR Drive through NetGalley, having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in James Comey’s Nora Carleton series. Comey continues to impress—this third installment is razor-sharp, timely, and utterly absorbing.

As a fan of Nora, I was delighted to reconnect with her, Benny, and her ever-opinionated mother. The dynamic between these three—especially as Benny and Nora’s mum navigate their budding relationship—adds warmth and wit to an otherwise high-stakes, high-intensity plot. These personal threads ground the narrative, offering both levity and emotional depth.

The legal drama at the heart of FDR Drive is brilliantly researched and disturbingly relevant. The exploration of free speech, misinformation, and extremist rhetoric through the lens of the law is compelling and urgent. Comey expertly navigates complex legal and ethical terrain, shedding light on how the justice system might confront digital-age radicalisation—without ever losing pace or clarity.

I was hooked from page one. Even though it’s the third in the series, FDR Drive can absolutely be read as a standalone—but I’d highly recommend starting from the beginning to fully appreciate the evolution of the characters and the moral weight of the cases they face.

If you’re a fan of smart, fast-paced legal thrillers with heart and substance, this series—and FDR Drive in particular—deserves a place at the top of your TBR.