THE POWERS THAT BE by Cliff Ryder

     Sometimes there are problems, international problems, that require intervention but no government is willing to openly sanction any actions.  This is where Room 59 steps in.  Room 59 is a top secret black ops unit and Kate Cochrane is the director.  At her disposal are a vast array of agents well trained to meet the dangers that face them.     

The mission is Cuba.  Colonel Jonas Schrader and Marcus Ruiz are the primary operatives on a mission that will take them into the heart of Cuba.  The story isn’t one dimensional however, as there is action in Florida as well as glimpses into the past.  Will the mission be jeopardized by this secret past?  Who will live and who will die in this first exciting Room 59 book?     

THE POWERS THAT BE is one of those thrill rides that leaves you guessing till the final end.  I did figure out some of the secrets, but that didn’t stop Cliff Ryder from having other surprises in store for me!  Without spoiling the plot, the ending is a shocker and truly sets the stage for making the Room 59 series a hit due to the author’s willingness to take chances.     

THE POWERS THAT BE is populated with a large number of unique and interesting characters.  We get glimpses into the minds of the handlers, such as the director, Kate, and the liaison, Judy Burges, who have to make tough decisions.  Will they sacrifice the one for the good of the many?  And then we have the field operatives, such as Marcus and Jonas.  These are not one dimensional characters as they have thoughts, feelings, and even lives outside the job that sometimes conflict with the mission at hand.  What choices will they make when everything is on the line? 

     Cliff Ryder writes a very credible and entertaining thriller.  The fast pace keeps the reader rapidly turning the pages but even more importantly, the facts are clearly articulated so that someone unfamiliar with the terminology will feel drawn into the storyline.  Perhaps one of the most fascinating things about THE POWERS THAT BE is the thought provoking questions Cliff Ryder raises about international politics.  Excellent start to what appears to be a promising new series!

Rating: 5

(review courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques)

The D2K Paranormal Junkies 2008 Challenge