VINDICTA

Steven Konkoly’s final book in the core Black Flagged series is shocking, suspenseful, and pulse-activating. It has aspects of both political and military thrillers as well as an action-adventure thriller and is the sixth book in the series.

This book picks up immediately after the fifth book and pits General Terrance Sanderson’s remaining operatives and an odd assortment of allies against a plot to reshape the country in the image of a newly elected, third party administration. This party is actually a domestic terrorist organization pretending to be a third party political movement. A complicated operation is the only way to end the madness of the fringe fanatics’ antics. Is it even possible? Who can be trusted?

It’s been five years since the fifth book in the series was printed. For those that want a recap, there is a summary of each of the previous books at the end of this one. A much-needed character list is also provided.

This series is mainly about covert operations overseen by General Terrence Sanderson. At one time, they were funded by the United States. However, defunding his organization didn’t stop him from protecting the country. He found other sources of funding for their activities, even when he had to flee the USA. This book is mainly set in Virginia, Mexico, Washington D.C., Texas, and Vermont. It is exactly what you would expect from a well-written action thriller with lots of concern over how to protect one’s country.

Due to the large number of characters in the book, it helps to read this series in order. That way, a reader is not learning all of the secondary characters at once, but gradually over time. Readers will see General Sanderson change over the course of this sixth novel. There is even a little humor sprinkled in towards the end of the novel. However, the focus is on action and not character development in this one. Despite this, the main characters in Sanderson’s group come across as fiery, bold, and intense.

This novel kept me captivated from the first page to its astounding conclusion. The plot is deeply involved with several twists to the story, although many of the activities are over-the-top. It was so full of action and excitement that it kept me turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. At the same time, it was somewhat unsettling when you examine the thoughts, behaviors, and actions of many of those in power politically. I was kept fully invested in the mission becoming a success. But is that what happens?

Konkoly continues to bring great characters, entertaining story lines, and lots of action together in exhilarating novels. The gripping scenes and great plot kept me on the edge of my seat. He has become one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading more from him.

Overall, this book was suspenseful, riveting, fast-paced, action-oriented, and entertaining. This final book in the series was worth the wait. If you enjoy action thrillers that have both strong male and female characters, then this may be the series for you.

Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was June 28, 2022.