📖 Overview
Detective John Corey returns in this fast-paced thriller as a contractor for the FBI Anti-Terrorist Task Force, monitoring Russian diplomats in New York City. Working surveillance on Long Island's East End, he notices suspicious activity that triggers his finely-honed instincts.
The story takes place over just 24 hours as Corey races against time to prevent what could be a catastrophic attack on Manhattan. His investigation leads him through exclusive Hampton beaches, diplomatic compounds, and the dark corners of post-Cold War espionage.
Corey must navigate complex political waters while pursuing Russian diplomat Colonel Vasily Petrov, whose activities suggest connections to a larger plot. The stakes escalate as he uncovers layers of deception and confronts the lingering shadows of US-Russian relations.
The novel examines themes of loyalty, paranoia, and the persistent threat of terrorism in a world where old enemies wear new masks. Through Corey's sharp-witted perspective, it captures the tension between diplomatic restraint and the need for decisive action.
👀 Reviews
Readers found this to be a lighter, more straightforward entry in the John Corey series with less of the character's signature wit and sarcasm. Many noted the slower pacing compared to previous books.
Liked:
- Clear, uncluttered plot
- Focus on real-world nuclear terrorism threats
- Return to NYC setting
- Strong ending sequence
Disliked:
- Less humor and banter than previous books
- Slower first half
- Main character feels "toned down"
- Some found the plot predictable
Several readers mentioned missing Corey's marriage dynamics with Kate Mayfield from earlier books. A common critique was that the story takes too long to build momentum, with one reader noting "the first 150 pages could have been condensed."
Ratings:
Goodreads: 3.9/5 (12,800+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.3/5 (2,900+ ratings)
Barnes & Noble: 4.1/5 (380+ ratings)
The book has about 25% fewer total reviews compared to previous entries in the series.
📚 Similar books
The Terminal List by Jack Carr
Former Navy SEAL James Reece pursues Russian operatives across multiple locations while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens national security.
Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews A CIA officer matches wits with Russian intelligence operatives in a chess game of espionage that unfolds across international borders.
Dead or Alive by Tom Clancy Ex-CIA operative Jack Ryan Jr. tracks terrorists through a web of international intrigue during a 24-hour crisis period.
The Eight by Katherine Neville A CIA analyst races through New York City against Russian agents in pursuit of a Cold War secret that threatens Manhattan.
The Last Man by Vince Flynn CIA operative Mitch Rapp investigates Russian interference while navigating diplomatic complexities during a time-sensitive mission.
Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews A CIA officer matches wits with Russian intelligence operatives in a chess game of espionage that unfolds across international borders.
Dead or Alive by Tom Clancy Ex-CIA operative Jack Ryan Jr. tracks terrorists through a web of international intrigue during a 24-hour crisis period.
The Eight by Katherine Neville A CIA analyst races through New York City against Russian agents in pursuit of a Cold War secret that threatens Manhattan.
The Last Man by Vince Flynn CIA operative Mitch Rapp investigates Russian interference while navigating diplomatic complexities during a time-sensitive mission.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔍 The character John Corey was first introduced in "Plum Island" (1997) and quickly became one of DeMille's most popular protagonists
🌟 Before becoming a novelist, Nelson DeMille served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and was decorated with the Air Medal, Bronze Star, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry
📚 "Radiant Angel" was also published under the title "A Quiet End" in some international markets
🗽 The book's plot was partly inspired by real concerns about Russian diplomats' activities in New York City during the post-Cold War era
🎬 Several of DeMille's books have been optioned for films, including "The General's Daughter," which was made into a 1999 movie starring John Travolta