This is one of those edge of your seat, nails bitten to the quick, jaw clenching (get the idea yet, fellow adrenaline junkies?) adventures that is so well written that I couldn't help but believe every word! I felt as though I was there, and knew these characters as family; they were that real to me. The interactions and conversations were plausible and the story moved smoothly though rapidly, told equally well through dialog and narrative with transitions like silk. The author incarnates honest angst, courage despite fear, and belief beyond hope that evokes empathy in the reader. I enjoyed each character, though some I delighted to loathe. Donlay generously provides backstory sufficient to comprehend a villain's impetus while allowing the protagonists sufficient flaws...no superheroes here, through plenty of not so ordinary, alpha heroes and heroines. In the midst of everpresent high speed action, the story's essence is love, brotherly and marital, that motivates characters to persist through overwhelming odds. Now, you must be wondering about the standards of this reviewer, and I have to admit that I am rarely this optimistically, single minded in my reviews. All I can say in my defense is that even if you aren't as enthusiastic as I, there is a good chance you will find it a worthwhile read. One final note, although the violence may be a bit much for younger readers, generally speaking this novel will appeal to a large, varied audience, both male and female equally. Many thanks to Oceanview Publishing and Netgalley for making it possible for me to read this advanced copy. My observations are unequivocally my own, and in no way influenced by anyone associated with the writing, editing, publishing or promotion of Pegasus Down" by Philip Donlay, (who may become one of my new favorite authors.)

Non-Stop Action All the Way

Lauren's top secret CIA mission goes wrong, and she is trapped in enemy territory. Her husband, Donovan, is in a race to rescue her - but racing against him are other parties who will stop at nothing to find her first.

This is a non-stop action movie in a book. It starts with "The flash of the explosion lit up the night sky". Near the end there is "a muffled boom that sent glowing hot debris tumbling away from the helicopter". Imbetween are water, land and sky chases across Europe, with plenty of excitement and heart stopping moments.

This is the 6th book in the Donovan Nash Thriller series, and the first one I have read. It stands alone well, but I found the non-stop action detracted from the storyline behind the characters, which is why I gave it a personal 4 out of 5 rating. Anyone who likes "all action" thrillers will love this, and I am sure feel it deserves a 5 out of 5. I shall certainly be queuing up at the cinema if it is made into a film!