The Twelfth Imam

A Novel (The Twelfth Imam, Book 1)

By: Joel C. Rosenberg

Narrated by: Christopher Lane

Length: 14 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

Tensions are rising in the Middle East. Iran’s president vows to annihilate the United States and Israel. Israel’s prime minister says someone must hit Iran’s nuclear sites “before it’s too late”. The American president warns against a preemptive strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities and says negotiations are the key to finding peace.

And amid it all, rumors are swirling throughout the region of a mysterious religious cleric claiming to be the Islamic messiah known as the Mahdi or the Twelfth Imam. Word of his miracles, healings, signs, and wonders is spreading like wildfire.

CIA operative David Shirazi was born for this moment. He is recruited and sent into Tehran with one objective: use all means necessary to disrupt Iran’s nuclear weapons program, without leaving American fingerprints and without triggering an apocalyptic new war.

But time is running out.

©2010 Joel C. Rosenberg (P)2010 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“Ripped from the headlines — next year’s headlines.” ( Washington Times)

Strong story, Strong performance

For a lot of this book I was thinking "Oh WOW." I was very involved emotionally pretty much from the start. There are a couple of things you will want to know about it before you read it however. First, it is the first book in a series. This book does not have a satisfying ending. It seems to stop in mid-air. I am so glad I knew that before I finished the book. Second, if you are offended by Jesus Christ, don't read it, as He does make an appearance, small as it is. For me, it was dramatic, a little startling, and it made perfect sense in the context of the story. I can't wait to read the sequel.

Christopher Lane is a topnotch narrator. He really brought the story to life.

okay could have been better

The main spy is an iranian american that has never lived in iran yet totally blends in at all levels of culture. Sort of improbable. Also, at every turn luck, fortune, fate, etc. all turn our hero's way. Great concept of how to get rid of the scumbags that run iran currently, if only! General lack of knowledge and detail of iranian security forces, etc. which suprised me givin the author. I dont think I'll be reading any more joel rosy tho, too much jesus this and jesus that. I want more Tommy Carmellini type spys.

Outstanding

Totally enjoyable, easy listing, captivating.
Didn't want the story to end. Can't wait to continue the series....

Fast paced and keeps you engaged the whole time

Love the use of past events that happened in Iran during the revolution and connecting to present times. Overall could not stop listening to it. Finished it in 3 days.

A Different Kind of Spy Novel

What did you love best about The Twelfth Imam?

I liked that the author took a rather unconventional "religious" angle and was willing to bring faith into the plot.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Yes, the character development was very good and so it was easy to care about the main characters.

What about Christopher Lane’s performance did you like?

Amazing impersonations and pronunciation. Outstanding performance.

Any additional comments?

I am listening to "The Tehran Initiative" and finding it just as good or better.

Compelling

The book is well-written, plot is quite involved and characters are vividly portrayed. The narration is excellent.

The best series I've ever listened to!

Any additional comments?

Don't miss out on this exceptional series! It has something for everyone.

Excellent book!

this book trilogy is one of our favorites. the narrator does a great job with the voices, making this a great audiobook.

great

great book, but it ended abruptly. sequel, maybe? it's a great way to spend long trips!

The one that got me hooked...

I devoured this series and went on to read every other book this author has written . My only gripe is that he does not write as quickly as I read.