The First Hostage

J. B. Collins, a foreign correspondent for the New York Times, finds himself caught in a crisis when ISIS captures the President of the United States during a summit in Jordan. Collins must work with U.S. officials and Middle Eastern allies to locate and rescue the president before ISIS can execute him. The story moves between Jordan, Iraq, and other Middle Eastern locations as Collins races against time while navigating complex political relationships and military operations. His position as a journalist provides unique access and insights, but also puts him at risk as he gets closer to uncovering the truth. The novel incorporates real-world elements including ISIS operations, Middle Eastern geopolitics, and the dynamics of terrorism in the modern age. Collins must grapple with questions of loyalty and duty while attempting to prevent a global catastrophe. At its core, the book explores themes of faith, courage, and the moral complexities that arise when personal conscience collides with professional obligations in times of crisis.

Readers describe this as a fast-paced political thriller that keeps them engaged throughout. Many finish it in 1-2 sittings, noting they couldn't put it down. Readers appreciate: - Realistic portrayal of Middle East geopolitics - Technical details about military operations - Integration of current events into the plot - Character development of protagonist J.B. Collins Common criticisms: - Religious themes feel heavy-handed to some readers - Plot developments can seem implausible - Too similar to author's previous books - Lengthy descriptions slow the pacing One reader noted: "The action sequences rival Tom Clancy, but the preaching pulls you out of the story." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (2,100+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.6/5 (300+ ratings) Most negative reviews focus on the religious messaging rather than the plot or writing quality. Positive reviews frequently mention the book's relevance to current Middle East conflicts.

The President is Missing by Bill Clinton A president goes off the grid to stop a cyberterrorist attack on America while fighting enemies both foreign and domestic.

Transfer of Power by Vince Flynn A terrorist takeover of the White House forces a lone counterterrorism operative to navigate a deadly mission to save the president.

Executive Orders by Tom Clancy After a devastating attack leaves most of the government dead, the new president must rebuild the nation while preventing multiple threats to American security.

The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor A Secret Service agent uncovers an international conspiracy following the kidnapping of the president during a ski trip.

American Assassin by Vince Flynn A CIA operative pursues Middle Eastern terrorists while uncovering a plot that threatens both American and Israeli security.

🌟 Joel C. Rosenberg worked as a communications advisor for several prominent political figures, including Steve Forbes and Benjamin Netanyahu, before becoming a novelist. 🌟 The book is part of the J.B. Collins series and follows a New York Times foreign correspondent caught in the middle of an ISIS terrorist plot targeting world leaders. 🌟 Many of Rosenberg's fictional plots have seemingly predicted real-world events, earning him the nickname "modern Nostradamus" among some readers. 🌟 The author conducted extensive research in the Middle East, including visits to Jordan, Egypt, and Iraq, to ensure accuracy in depicting locations and regional politics. 🌟 The novel addresses the real-world threat of ISIS targeting journalists, as numerous reporters were captured or killed by the terrorist organization between 2014-2016.