A fast paced read. Pure escapism. The plot seems pretty feasible and the pieces come together nicely. I loved Juba as the villian in a previous book but he didn't seem as effectual in this one. Kyle Swanson is becoming just a bit too good. He is becoming a bit superheroish and losing a bit of his humanity. What exactly can't he do? Still I like to see him do his stuff. The tension level here wasn't as high somehow as in previous books. Maybe because there was so much from other points of view, it was easy to lose sight of Kyle so we weren't as attached to him. I'm giving it 4 stars not for great literature but for escapist fun. Looking forward to the next one. ( )

It's been two years since I read the last episode of the Swanson Series, Kill Zone so I honestly can't offer much comparison between the two novels in terms of pace and feel.

I can say however that there seemed to be less actual conflict in this novel and more political/behind the scenes maneuvering, from my vague memory the prior novel was more no holes barred action whereas this one is a little more 'big picture'.

Overall, it's an interesting story line (revolution in Saudi Arabia by Islamic Fundamentalists backed by Russia) however I found the Chinese involvement a bit odd - it didn't really serve much purpose and the subplot wasn't really resolved in a logical manner in this readers opinion. ( )

Not as good as Kill Zone. This had more of a feel of an abridged Tom Clancy. Too many entities involved; Russia, China (really?). Not enough sniper action from Kyle Swanson. ( )