The Secret Soldier

By: Alex Berenson

Narrated by: George Guidall

Length: 11 hrs and 22 mins

Publisher's summary

John Wells goes undercover in Saudi Arabia in a cutting-edge novel of modern suspense from the #1 New York Times best-selling author.

John Wells may have left the CIA, but it hasn't left him. A mysterious call brings a surprise meeting with the aged monarch of Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah. "My kingdom is on a precipice," he tells Wells. "Powerful factions are plotting against me, and my own family is in danger. I don't know who I can trust, but I'm told I can trust you."

Reluctantly, and with the secret blessing of the CIA, Wells goes undercover; but the more he learns, the more complicated things become, and soon he, too, is unsure whom to trust, in Saudi Arabia or Washington. One thing, however, is clear: If the conspirators prevail, it will mean more than the fall of a monarch-it may be the beginning of the final conflagration between America and Islam.

©2011 Alex Berenson (P)2011 Penguin

Reads like the Evening News

With what is happening in today's world it was like listening to the evening news. Very well read..... And story was filled with lots of twist and turns.

Best of series

Great Middle East Drama
So far series has been HO Hum.
This is good. Ordering next one.

The killing is too easy

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

I think so but I did tire of the whole assassin thing. Not enough depth of character

What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?

See the above

What about George Guidall’s performance did you like?

He is the absolute best out there!

Do you think The Secret Soldier needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?

Not sure. Not if it is just more of the same

Curses! Islamists foiled again!

There are plenty of good guy American vs Islamist terrorist books out. This one has a fairly unbelievable plot with a few holes but I still found it good for its entertainment value. Thrillers like this are just plain fun to listen to. If you enjoy Tom Clancy, Brad Thor, Vince Flynn, you will likely enjoy this author. The action is pretty much non-stop so you won't want to put it down. Enjoy!

A fun ride. A weak end.

The fifth book in the John Wells series was better than the previous two in many ways. I liked the underlying storyline of this novel. I enjoyed learning a little about the Saudi Royal famil. I enjoyed the various travels by air and seas. But, for me, the key to whether I like a book is always character development. John Wells is a richly developed protagonist. This book let me learn more about his life and his past. I always like when there are bits of story told through flashbacks.

However, I took away one star due to the ending which was horrible. The story fell apart and it left me wanting more - but not in the good way. Bummer. Nevertheless, number six is definitely in my queue.

Great

Couldn't stop listening. Got a great history lesson out of the book. Some parts were a little drawn out but still great.

Rather Good Listen

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Narriation was excellent. Story line was well over the line of good. I would happily recommend this book series to a friend.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Pleased.

Which scene was your favorite?

The peak near the end.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

A needle in a desert.

Any additional comments?

Bring back Ecksly!

Different

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

Not sure I will listen to another of his books. some of the basis of the character was just not believeable.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

no

Any additional comments?

nonr\e

The best so far?

I have a hard time remembering each book well enough to decide on comparative quality. I listen while driving, and I am a driver first, a listener second. There are a couple convenient short cuts taken within the story. Continued use of characters from previous books which pop up again. Not really a problem, but it can feel a bit lazy or cute when you have read a few series that abuse the technique. I don't feel that the author abuses the re-use of characters, but it effected the read.

There is something about the depth and pace of the first two thirds of the book that made me appreciate the authors crafting of this book and raised my enjoyment. The feeling that you are learning something about the world while enjoying an action adventure is something I like. The handling of Islam throughout the series is great in my ignorant opinion.

Excellent narrative that keeps you hooked

I came to this series with some skepticism and now I am totally hooked. Excellent stories. Real dilemmas that bring the tensions of the Middle East to life in a respectful and informed way.