Jack Stewart breathes explosive new life into the iconic Presidential Agent series with Direct Action, the tenth installment and a masterful revival of the legacy created by W.E.B. Griffin. Beloved for its military authenticity and razor-sharp suspense, the series now undergoes a pivotal "passing of the torch" that begins with a tragedy: legendary agent Charley Castillo is gravely wounded during a horrific mass shooting in Virginia Beach. As Castillo clings to life, the narrative shifts to Pick McCoy, a young Marine Raider captain thrust into the role of the new Presidential Agent. Stewart utilizes his real-world experience as a Navy fighter pilot to infuse the story with a sense of urgent realism, setting the stage for a high-stakes investigation into a plot that threatens the American people in their own Country.
One aspect I truly admired was the author’s adept use of a dual-timeline structure and his ability to honor the series' long history while forging a modern path. Stewart seamlessly continues the work started by bestselling authors Andrews and Wilson, building a bridge between the classic Griffin era and this new, grittier chapter. Pick McCoy is a compelling protagonist—disciplined, lethal, and deeply principled—who must navigate a labyrinth of international intrigue that spans from the halls of the White House to various global hotspots. The "direct action" of the title is rendered with unflinching accuracy, providing readers with action sequences beloved by all fans of the thriller genre.
Direct Action succeeds both as a faithful continuation of Griffin’s legacy and as a bold new direction for the franchise, providing a perfect entry point for new readers. Stewart manages to honor the core spirit of the Presidential Agent series while elevating the tension with a contemporary edge. For longtime W.E.B. Griffin readers and fans of authors like Jack Carr or Brad Thor, this latest installment is a must-read. It proves that the Presidential Agent series is not only alive but more vital than ever under Stewart’s capable hand. I absolutely loved it!
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