BookMark™ - The Libyan Diversion
Published July 2023
A presentation of latest Christian books to hit the stores
The Libyan Diversion
Genre: Thriller, Suspense, Christian Fiction, Mystery, Contemporary
Authors: Joel C. Rosenberg
Publishing Date: May 16, 2023
Availability in London: Creation Bookstore
Available in: Paperback
Summary:
From New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Joel C. Rosenberg comes the fifth military and international political thriller in the Marcus Ryker series.
The world’s most wanted terrorist is dead. Marcus Ryker recommended the drone strike himself. The intelligence was rock-solid. But what if it was wrong?
Abu Nakba―the man responsible for lethal attacks in Washington, D.C., London, and Jerusalem―is finally dead. Marcus Ryker has been tasked with hunting down and destroying what’s left of the terror group Kairos.
But before Ryker can mobilize his team of CIA operatives with their new assignment, a disturbing report from Libya suggests all may not be as it seems. The U.S. bombing that should have taken out Nakba’s headquarters now appears to have been a disastrous mistake―and Ryker himself may be responsible.
With Kairos gearing up for a major retaliatory strike against the U.S., time is short, and terror cells may already be inside American borders. But Ryker won’t be able to stop this threat until he clears his own name, and his closest ally inside the White House can no longer help him.
The Libyan diversion threatens to leave Ryker on the sidelines just when his country needs him most.
Packed with action and intrigue, this thriller novel is everything Joel’s fans have come to expect.
READER REVIEWS Courtesy : goodreads
Andreas Tornberg Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
One of the best thriller series out there. I love Rosenberg’s way of writing and the mix of suspense and geopolitical drama is top notch. I highly recommend this book and series.
Sabrina Damron Gressly Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 4 out of 5 STARS
Thrilling as usual. Unfortunately it’s a 4 star from me as there was mild language. In the past I didn’t remember Rosenberg having any language so I was disappointed by that. Otherwise a very fun read!
Jean Kolinofsky Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
This is another must read by Joel Rosenberg. Evidence points to the location of the world’s most wanted terrorist. Marcus Ryker’s recommendation for an immediate strike is accepted by the president and the compound is destroyed. Before Ryker and his team can follow up the attack with a search for the remaining members of the terrorist cell, evidence emerges that his evidence was faulty and the compound actually housed civilians. The attack is used as justification for the terrorists to retaliate with a major strike against the United States. Further evidence vindicates Ryker, but with an attack imminent his team must race to identify the target and stop the attack.
America is anticipating a papal visit, with appearances in four major cities. Each appearance will draw thousands of people, making each one a potential target. The failing health of the president, the question of succession and the kidnapping of three American health workers in Yemen all serve as a diversion from the coming disaster. Tensions mount as Ryker and his team race from city to city attempting to locate the terrorists and anticipate their next move, culminating in a showdown that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Rosenberg’s Libyan Diversion presents a scenario that is all too real. He takes you behind the scenes at the White House and the CIA to witness the decision making and activities that take place in a crisis and provides a roller coaster of a ride for his readers. Marcus Ryker is a character who will appeal to fans of Brad Thor’s Scot Harvath and Brad Taylor’s Pike Logan.
Donna Pfeiffer Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
I have read all of this author's books and especially love the Ryker series! This crime drama fits into today's realm of possibilities and what terrorism could inflict on our world and our nation. This plot mirrors either a Jason Bourne or Bruce Willis action film, but is written by a Christian. I highly recommend starting with the first edition and reading through each one. Well written, believable, and hard to put down.
Diane Griffin Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
Wow, wow, wow!
This was a totally riveting read that I simply could not put down! I picked it up to start it
and literally read it in one sitting! Absolutely amazing!
Kristine Morgan Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
The Libyan Diversion is the fifth book in Joel Rosenberg's Marcus Ryker books, and in humble opinion the best one yet. I just finished reading it and my heart is still pounding! Talk about edge of your seat, non stop action, Wow!. Now as much as I loved it I must caution that it is a political thriller and not for the faint of heart as there are some graphic scenes. I do love the realistic feel to Rosenberg's books. Living in Israel as he does, he gives an authentic view to events that could happen at any time.
Marcus Ryker and all of the other characters have depth and backstories, they are very realistic and as such I really cared what happened to them. Rosenberg uses great detail such that one almost feels a par of the action, I found myself flinching at times. I highly recommend the whole Marcus Ryker series starting with the Kremlin conspiracy. The only problem with this book is that it is over and now I need to find something else to read!
So settle back with a pot of tea for a fantastic, edge of your seat adventure!
Susan Wachtel Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
The Libyan Diversion by Joel Rosenberg – Un-Putdownable and Will Keep You Awake at Night
Joel Rosenberg is one of my favorite authors. When he writes a new book, I want to read it. On May 16, 2023, The Libyan Diversion, the fifth book in the Marcus Ryker series will be released.
Joel Rosenberg is a compelling writer. From the get-go I was all in and didn’t want to put this book down. The Libyan Diversion’s storyline could have been ripped from today’s headline news. As horrifying as some of the scenarios are, unfortunately they are believable in today’s world.
Marcus Ryker is back in the United States and has no time to mend before he is called to present information to President Clark and his cabinet members. Marcus and his team have done a thorough investigation and it appears that Abu Nakba, man behind the recent Kairos terrorist strikes around the world, is within reach and can be taken down. Abu Nakba and his network.
When news breaks that the authorized strike may have hit the wrong target, the job for Marcus and his team just got a whole lot more complicated. In addition to the fallout from the strike, there is a concern about another planned Kairos strike in the United States with four possible targets.
I enjoyed reading this book. I like the characters, the fast pace and action. I appreciate the clarity between good and evil. Marcus and several of the other characters are Christians and faith was a small part of the story. I would like to have seen that element further developed. I liked Marcus and his team and their dedication to do whatever it takes to stop the terrorists. The Libyan Diversion keeps the action going until the very end.
Joel Rosenberg’s The Libyan Diversion will keep you up late at night. It’s un-putdownable.
If you like geo-political thrillers, intrigue, and action, you will want to get The Libyan Diversion by Joel Rosenberg. I highly recommend it. If you haven’t read the earlier books in this series, I recommend you get those too.
Terri Gillespie Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
I was a big fan of Joel Rosenberg’s first novels. Then for whatever reason, I lost track of his books until this book, THE LIBYAN DIVERSION, book 5 in the Marcus Ryker series. Wow. Look what I’ve been missing!
Rosenberg’s detail and understanding of geopolitical possibilities and bringing it to the reader as more than events, but people and how their lives are impacted, has always been his forte. However, this book is a grander scale of emotion.
The Story: Through reliable intel, Marcus Ryker is ready to make his move against the world’s most wicked terrorist—Abu Nakba. Marcus meticulously outlines his proof to POTUS regarding the location of the man responsible for atrocious bombings both within and outside the US. Despite strong disagreement by the head of the CIA, the president approves the strike. While awaiting confirmation that the hit was successful, a news report televises that the intel was flawed and a hospital with disabled children and staff ended up being killed by the strike.
Marcus is now on the run from the country he has given so much to.
While I was uncomfortable with the graphic elements, I’m also aware of its authenticity in today’s world. So **caution** to younger readers.
With four hundred and fifty pages, one would think book 5 tied up all the loose ends. However, while there is a satisfying and surprise ending, there are enough bad guys left out there for Marcus Ryker and his team. All in preparation for the next book.
A Joel C. Rosenberg novel requires an investment of time and emotion, but every minute of nail-biting and gasps is worth it to get to the end and get ready for the next book in the series. Speaking of which, while reading the series from the beginning is optimal, don’t let it stop you from beginning your read with book #5.
Highly recommend this book for those who love authentic, plausible geopolitical suspense and a thrill ride you won’t forget.
Joanne Hurley Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
The latest in the Marcus Ryker adventure thrillers is here, and boy is it a doozy! The diversion in the title is at the heart of this one, and spurs on all of the action that follows.
Returned from his ordeal with Kairos in Lebanon, Marcus Ryker is once again plunged into intrigue; it has been determined that the leader of Kairos' lair has been discovered, and Ryker immediately urges the President and his Cabinet to launch a strike at the heart of terrorism.
Even in the middle of a massive sandstorm, the strike is launched and is successful - but is later appears that what was struck was not a terrorist haven, but a civilian building, and the President and Marcus are condemned and excoriated by the press, by Congress and by the people of the USA.
In the meantime, in retaliation for the strike, Kairos launches their most audacious attack of all time: the Pope is about to visit the USA, in the wake of the recent peace accords with Israel, and he will be holding mass in four American cities, one of which will also see the President and First Lady as communicants.
Ultimately vindicated of the civilian strike, when actual proof of what occurred is uncovered, Marcus and his team must seek out the Kairos operatives before they can strike at the heart of democracy.
As usual, Mr. Rosenberg's story incorporates religion at the heart of his stories - both Islam and Christianity. Of course, the terrorists are truly evil and the Christians are ultimately good. But that doesn't detract from the absolute heart-pounding action that is at the heart of all of the Marcus Ryker thrillers.
Jean Kolinofsky Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
This is another must read by Joel Rosenberg. Evidence points to the location of the world’s most wanted terrorist. Marcus Ryker’s recommendation for an immediate strike is accepted by the president and the compound is destroyed. Before Ryker and his team can follow up the attack with a search for the remaining members of the terrorist cell, evidence emerges that his evidence was faulty and the compound actually housed civilians. The attack is used as justification for the terrorists to retaliate with a major strike against the United States. Further evidence vindicates Ryker, but with an attack imminent his team must race to identify the target and stop the attack.
America is anticipating a papal visit, with appearances in four major cities. Each appearance will draw thousands of people, making each one a potential target. The failing health of the president, the question of succession and the kidnapping of three American health workers in Yemen all serve as a diversion from the coming disaster. Tensions mount as Ryker and his team race from city to city attempting to locate the terrorists and anticipate their next move, culminating in a showdown that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Rosenberg’s Libyan Diversion presents a scenario that is all too real. He takes you behind the scenes at the White House and the CIA to witness the decision making and activities that take place in a crisis and provides a roller coaster of a ride for his readers. Marcus Ryker is a character who will appeal to fans of Brad Thor’s Scot Harvath and Brad Taylor’s Pike Logan.
Rachel Kokes Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 5 out of 5 STARS
The Libyan Diversion is an action novel written by Joel C. Rosenberg. It is book five in the Marcus Ryker series, and I would recommend reading all of the books in order as there is just too much backstory you would miss otherwise.
Summary: Marcus Ryker has been tasked with hunting down Abu Nakba and destroying the terrorist network Kairos-once and for all.
But Marcus’ decisions have been called into question, and now he’s being blamed for taking innocent lives.
Can he clear his name?
And can he find the rest of the Kairos cells before they execute another attack?
My Thoughts: This book is amazing. In fact, the whole series is one of my all-time favorites.
I actually took the time to re-read the entire series so that I could remember just how much has happened to Marcus Ryker. And it’s A LOT.
This book is no exception. There is non-stop action and adventure, mystery and suspense, and the character dynamics in this series are out of this world.
The author does such an amazing job of creating story lines that fit so well with what is actually happening in the world today (and could happen in the near future), that you can’t help but be drawn into the story.
I love this series, and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys action/suspense/political thrillers.
This is another great book, and worth buying!
Bobby Bosler Rated “The Libyan Diversion” a 2 out of 5 STARS
Breaking trust with audience
“Marcus Ryker books don’t contain swearing” is something I’ve told many friends and acquaintances. “It’s exciting action without the objectionable language.” I can no longer say this about this series, which grieves me.
I don’t know why Mr. Rosenberg has chosen to go this route. This novel contains three instances of “hell” used as a curse word and three uses of “bastard.” Perhaps after the single use of “bastard” was tolerated in the previous book, The Beirut Protocol, which I had not noticed until now, he thought that his audience approved. He was wrong.
I do believe that a cross-section of his Marcus Ryker readers have read his books with a level of trust that Ryker books are “safe” as far as language is concerned. The first three books established that pattern. They established a pattern of trust the readers have had in the author to keep Hollywoods language out of this series, at least. That trust has been broken.
I don’t normally leave reviews, but after my questions to Mr. Rosenberg were ignored on Twitter, I feel I needed to put this out there to warn others who may find the language objectionable and hope that Mr. Rosenberg may offer a response.
I finished the novel and enjoyed the story, but this will probably be my last Ryker novel. And i will warn others as well.
