The Night Ranger: A John Wells Novel, Book 7

Berenson's 7th John Wells installment is another solid effort that delivers. This time around Wells is contacted by his estranged son to assist in the rescue of kidnapped Americans in Africa. While the world believes a terrorist plot, Wells pieces together a more complex and sinister evolving series of motivations. As is typical, Wells struggles with his own unique brand of morality and ethical conduct. In the end Wells functions as a microcosm of the confusing mix of US intent and policy all while out-thinking everyone else.

The pacing is excellent with a gradual buildup, leading to an almost non-stop, but unclear where this is headed ending. This time out Wells is not officially CIA, but has their crucial support. At the same time, Berenson throws in numerous plot twists as well as doing an excellent job of interjecting contradictory governmental aims. In addition, the geographical translocation to Africa is refreshing to see Wells out of his element, but still quite capable. Berenson appears ready to move Wells in new directions, both personally as well as operationally.

George Guidall's narration is simply outstanding as would be expected. His range of voices is breathtaking. His flow and tone perfectly match the mood of the story.

Alex Berenson is a seasoned reporter who has seen current combat theaters first hand - and transfers a lot of his experience through a "kick-butt" protagonist, John Wells. Wells' exploits are realistic - not supernatural - and his supporting cast should also keep a reader's interest while progressing through the seven books Berenson has written.

Furthermore, Berenson is a really good writer. He knows how to explain the undercurrents of America's fight against extremism - and weave the many details and subplots together to create an interesting, informative book.

Lastly, George Guidall brings this book to life with an excellent performance. I hope Berenson and Guidall continue with John Wells and cast.

This was not the action packed compelling story I was expecting from this writer or his character. I kept waiting for the story to take off. The book ended somewhat unexpectedly.

I would like to hear the reader expand his narrative accents and character range. Seems to have only two or three differing expressions

No

A little bit let down on this one. I have enjoyed reading or listening to each of his other John wells books

I HAVE NOW PURCHASED THREE ALEX BERENSON BOOKS, SHADOW PATROL, THE FAITHFUL SPY AND THE NIGHT RANGER. I HAVE BEEN VARIOUSLY IMPRESSED, ENTERTAINED BY THE FORMER TWO. HOWEVER THE NIGHT RANGER WAS DISAPOINTING IN THE EXTREME; THE PLOT RAMBLED, THE CHARACTERS WERE WEEK, IN ALL, VERY SHALLOW INDEED.

AS FAR AS THE PLOT IS CONCERNED, THE READER HAD TO KEEP UP WITH VARIOUS CHANGES OF LOCATION,CHARACTER MOOD AS WELL AS ALMOST OVERPOWERING DETAIL. CERTAINLY NOT WHAT I HAVE COME TO EXPECT FROM THE AUTHOR

Fast paced, lots of action- excellent story!!! I didn't want it to end!! I look forward to the next John Wells adventure!

I have listened to all of the books in this series and have enjoyed everyone. In this book as in the prevous the hero has matured and seems comfortable in his life. The story itself seems plausable and the history and background interesting. It appears this author thorougly researches the political and historic context to his stories making them both entertaining and dare I say educational?

The whole series is worth a listen, but start with the first book in the series.

Exciting African Story

Action near the end was very satisfying.

Awesome performance by George Guidall. It's really like a movie in your head, when he narrates.

This story was exiting, educational, and never boring.

Awesome listen!