Member Review

In this latest installment of the Jack Ryan Jr. series, the narrative opens with a chilling string of murders scattered across the United States. At first glance, these killings appear unrelated, but a deeper investigation reveals a disturbing pattern: all the victims are former special forces operatives who once played a critical role in dismantling the Umayyad Revolutionary Council, a terrorist organization, that previously attempted to detonate a nuclear waste facility on American soil.

Meanwhile, Jack Ryan Jr. finds himself far from the action, attending a wedding in India with his fiancée. What begins as a peaceful vacation quickly spirals into chaos when he and his fiancée are swept into a dangerous situation. As events unfold, it becomes clear that the violence in the U.S. and the turmoil in South Asia are not isolated incidents but part of a larger, coordinated threat. Jack Jr., along with The Campus, must race against time to uncover the truth and neutralize the danger before it escalates further.

One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is its evolving scope. Earlier entries in the Jack Ryan Jr. series often focused on solo missions, with Jack operating independently to resolve localized threats. In contrast, this book mirrors the broader geopolitical scale of the original Jack Ryan Sr. novels. The inclusion of The Campus team, as well as Jack Ryan Sr. and his presidential cabinet, adds depth and complexity to the storyline, making it feel more expansive and interconnected. This shift in narrative style is a welcome development, enriching the series with layered plots and a big scale feel.

The dual setting split between the United States and the India/Pakistan region adds a refreshing dimension to the story. Previous spy thrillers I have read have not spent much time on India. The cultural and geopolitical backdrop enhances the tension and intrigue. The return of the Umayyad Revolutionary Council is a clever nod to previous books, offering continuity for longtime fans while remaining accessible to new readers. The author skillfully balances references to past events without making prior knowledge a prerequisite for enjoying the current story.

Finally, the announcement that M.P. Woodward will be taking over the Jack Ryan Sr. series is exciting news. Woodward has demonstrated a strong command of pacing, character development, and international espionage in the Jack Ryan Jr. novels, and his transition to the senior series will be a nice addition to the franchise.

This book is a thrilling, well-constructed addition to the Jack Ryan universe. It successfully bridges the gap between the Junior and Senior series, offering a compelling narrative that is both action-packed and intellectually engaging. Fans of political thrillers, espionage, and global intrigue will find much to appreciate in Terminal Velocity. Thanks to MP Woodward, NetGalley, and GP Putnam’s and Son for a free advanced copy for an honest review.