Fiction Addict

Genre: Apocalyptic, Political, Thrillers

Publisher: Tyndale House

Publication Date: 3/5/2013

Reviewed by Karri Compton

Time is running out for David Shirazi and for the world. The twelfth imam has risen to power, established a caliphate, and secured nuclear weapons in his quest to wipe Israel off the face of the earth. In a desperate attempt to save the country, Prime Minister Naphtali orders a preemptive strike on Iran that takes out six of their eight nukes. Now it’s up to David and his team of undercover CIA operatives to find the nukes before they are fired at Israel. But the weapons are on the move and they need intelligence fast. There is a mole within the Iranian team, but no one knows who it is and he must relay important information before he is found out. Failure is not an option if America’s greatest ally in the Middle East is to be protected.

Again, as in the first two books of the series, there are many people to keep track of throughout the book. Thankfully, Rosenberg includes a much-beloved-to-me Cast of Characters list, which is such a great reference point while reading. Marseille, David’s would-be girlfriend, prays for him from afar and helps his family through a difficult time in his absence. Dr. Birjandi, the former Twelver who has come to faith in Christ, leads David to the Lord and becomes even more important as the plot progresses. About thirty others have their parts to play as well.

Rosenberg made a name for himself in the world of politics long before he became a novelist. His expertise in foreign affairs and the geography and inner workings of the Middle East makes this story nearly explode off the pages and into real life. I sat amazed at the complexity of the plot and at my realization that things such as these may really come to pass soon.

I thoroughly enjoyed Damascus Countdown. As a Christian political thriller, it sets the bar, and I don’t know of anyone who comes close to Rosenberg’s writing. He is passionate about Israel and its savior Jesus, and makes no qualms about having his characters share that passion. As I stated in my review of the previous installment, The Tehran Initiative, the evangelical sections that some would call “preachy” don’t bother me in the least. Non-apologetic, bold Christians are few and far between, and the ones in this story inspire. Fans of international intrigue, thrillers, and end times fiction will love Damascus Countdown.

Reviewer’s personal copy