God’s Eye View
Overview: NSA director Theodore Anders has a simple goal: collect every phone call, email, and keystroke tapped on the Internet. He knows unlimited surveillance is the only way to keep America safe.
Evelyn Gallagher doesn’t care much about any of that. She just wants to keep her head down and manage the NSA’s camera network and facial recognition program so she can afford private school for her deaf son, Dash.
But when Evelyn discovers the existence of an NSA program code-named God’s Eye, and connects it with the mysterious deaths of a string of journalists and whistle-blowers, her doubts put her and Dash in the crosshairs of a pair of government assassins: Delgado, a sadistic bomb maker and hacker; and Manus, a damaged giant of a man who until now has cared for nothing beyond protecting the director.
Within an elaborate game of political blackmail, terrorist provocations, and White House scheming, a global war is being fought—a war between those desperate to keep the state’s darkest secrets and those intent on revealing them. A war that Evelyn will need all her espionage training and savvy to survive. A war in which the director has the ultimate informational advantage: The God’s Eye View.
Pages: 374 Pages
Writer: Barry Eisler
Recommendations:
Barry Eisler once again proves his mastery of blending real-world events with fiction in his latest novel. Drawing inspiration from Edward Snowden’s whistleblowing, Eisler crafts a thrilling tale where the NSA utilizes video cameras to protect the nation. However, the power-hungry NSA director craves even more control, leading to a dangerous game of secrets and deception.
The characters in the story are a diverse mix, from a protective mother to ruthless killers at the director’s command. Action, drama, and even a hint of romance keep the story engaging as it unfolds across American soil and remote locations in the Middle East. While the plot may be somewhat predictable, the characters’ development and the incorporation of real-world events add depth and believability to the narrative.
Eisler’s expertise shines through in his attention to detail and research, making the story feel authentic and compelling. For an added treat, consider listening to the audiobook narrated by Eisler himself, bringing the characters to life with emotion and depth.
While the story may lack surprises, the strength of the characters and their resilience in the face of danger make it a worthwhile read. Eisler skillfully navigates the challenges his characters face, showcasing their intelligence and resourcefulness. Overall, the book offers more to love than to criticize, making it a solid choice for fans of gripping thrillers.