Atomic Peril

A Nuclear Forensics Thriller

By: Sidney Niemeyer

Narrated by: James L. Rubart

Length: 10 hrs and 40 mins

Publisher's summary

In this high-octane thriller, a laboratory scientist races to stop terrorists from detonating a nuclear bomb on American soil.

Tasked by the FBI to analyze a small amount of highly enriched uranium found on a smuggler in Moldova, nuclear-forensics scientist Steven Carter’s initial results suggest a serious terrorist threat. Unconvinced by his findings, the FBI calls a halt to further investigation. But Carter goes rogue, secretly continuing to analyze the material and discovering compelling evidence that somebody has enough uranium to make a nuclear bomb.

With no other recourse, Carter risks his career by taking his evidence to the CIA. Later, when a piece of the weapon is interdicted, he reunites with his FBI handler, John Kittrick, to decipher the clues buried in the uranium. With time running out, against all protocol, Kittrick asks Carter to leave his safe scientific turf and enter the dangerous world of a field operative. And Carter agrees, willing to do anything to help find the bomb before the terrorists unleash nuclear destruction.

©2023 Sidney Niemeyer (P)2024 Sidney Niemeyer

Critic reviews

"Atomic Peril gives readers an insightful peek at how decisions are made during a nuclear security event. It is a fascinating ride--you will learn much and will not be able to put this book down!" —Dr. Frank Wong, Former Director of Nuclear Defense Policy (2014-2016), National Security Council, The White House.

"A terrific nuclear thriller from a founding father of nuclear forensics. Readers who enjoyed Tom Clancy's The Sum of All Fears will love this book." —Rick Acker, bestselling suspense author.

“I am absolutely wowed by this thriller. I’m a huge fan of thrillers, and the story and craft in Atomic Peril struck me as polished, gripping, and entertaining. The novel shines a bright light on the serious value of nuclear forensics.” —William Daitch, Director (2006-2015), National Technical Nuclear Forensics Center, Department of Homeland Security.

What a ride!

I listened to this book on audible and could hardly hit pause! I loved all the details, the investigations, following the leads and the timelines, while following Steven’s instincts to narrow down areas/people to target. Also the glimpse at his own life family struggles throughout all this. Extremely well written, hoping you’re already working on your next Sidney Niemeyer!

Loved this book!

The audible version made it so easy to listen via my commute or during cleaning/gardening. However, I wish the audio was a little quicker. Thankfully, audible has 1.2-1.5 speed settings so it wasnt a huge deal. Overall, I loved the characters who I found relatable, I appreciated the shorter chapters (I get interupted in reading with 2 small boys running around), and I sat on the edge of my seat reading to the end (yes, precious mom sleep hours were sacrificed to finish this...I was that invested.)