The Tehran Initiative

May 04, 2013 Sean Dhaliwal rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I started out really loving this book, but I slowly ended up getting frustrated with it. I haven't read the prequel and didn't really know much about the author before getting into this, but a lot would have made more sense if I had. Rosenberg is basically an evangelical who is on a recruitment drive. You can see it in the plot itself. Now, I have to say, this book is great on a spy thriller level. The action is great and the intrigue is even better. The geopolitical backdrop of the Iran-Israel...more I started out really loving this book, but I slowly ended up getting frustrated with it. I haven't read the prequel and didn't really know much about the author before getting into this, but a lot would have made more sense if I had. Rosenberg is basically an evangelical who is on a recruitment drive. You can see it in the plot itself. Now, I have to say, this book is great on a spy thriller level. The action is great and the intrigue is even better. The geopolitical backdrop of the Iran-Israel conflict is fascinating (something that I take a real-world interest in), especially when you add a character like the 12th Imam in there. The Mahdi angle is great. From those standpoints, the book really is a pageturner. However, as you read further in, you notice some odd things. Such as religious eschatology. The book gets very preachy. And you can see Rosenberg's bias clearly. In this world, the Judeo-Christian West wants peace and is presented as the clear good guy, whereas the Islamic world is portrayed as a cunning and warmongering player. It just felt too black and white, good vs evil for me. This is because the real issue of the current West vs Iran problem is much more complicated than the whitewashed version Rosenberg presents. Having studied the issue, the way it is presented here seems clumsy and disingenuous. The weird supernatural stuff that happens just left me scratching my head. And don't get me started on the preaching. The author makes it seem like all Muslims are either A) pure evil or B) closet Christians. It seemed way too ridiculous for me. The segments with characters like Marseille and Malik had me rolling my eyes and I would often have to skim past their pontificating parts. I really liked the main character, David, especially since Rosenberg decides to use an actual Iranian-American, but he too gets bitten by the preaching bug, which is a damn shame considering that his segments are really exciting to read. I'm giving this book 3 stars only because of the interesting backdrop and the pageturning suspense, but the overly simplistic view of the issue and the tedious sermons prevent it from being a 5 star read.(less)

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Aug 31, 2012 Josh Hopping rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Over the past decade, author and former political consult Joel C. Rosenberg has been amassing a huge following with multiple New York Times best sellers. Drawing off his as a consult for Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky and then-former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Rosenberg’s books tend to focus on Middle Eastern politics and terrorism (think CIA and State Department thrillers).

A good chuck of Rosenberg’s fame comes from his uncanny ability to ‘predict’ real-life events within...more Over the past decade, author and former political consult Joel C. Rosenberg has been amassing a huge following with multiple New York Times best sellers. Drawing off his as a consult for Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky and then-former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Rosenberg’s books tend to focus on Middle Eastern politics and terrorism (think CIA and State Department thrillers).

A good chuck of Rosenberg’s fame comes from his uncanny ability to ‘predict’ real-life events within his books. For example, he wrote about kamikaze plane attack on an American city nine months before 9-11 and five months before the 2003 invasion of Iraq he wrote about a war with Saddam Hussein.

Having heard bits and pieces of this fame throughout the years, I finalize decided to give his books a try (well, that and the fact that a co-worker was pressuring me to read them!). Looking at my local library, I discovered that they had both the “The Twelfth Imam” (2010) and the sequel “The Tehran Initiative” (2011) in an audio format, which is my preferred method of ‘reading’ non-fiction books.

As to be expected, the hero of the series is an American CIA spy named David Shirazi who must infiltrate the Iranian government and try to stop a nuclear war. What was not expected was the way in which Rosenberg incorporated both Shia Islam eschatology and Christianity into the story line. Simply put, in the books the leaders of Iran are devoted Imami Shīa Muslims who are trying to hurry the arrive of the Mahdi (the twelve successor of Prophet Mohammad who is prophesied to unite the world under Islam) via destroying Israel and the USA – i.e. ushering in the end of times.

In fact, the Mahdi does show up in the books as someone with supernatural powers and insight into the future. Jesus also makes various appearances – only Jesus tended to appear to small groups of folks while the Mahdi takes the spotlight and control of various nations. Think of them as a Frank Peretti, Tim LaHaye/Jerry Jenkins, and Tom Clancy hybrid novel. (Note that Rosenberg is a Christian believer with a family tree of Orthodox Judaism.)

An interesting thing about the books is that the longer I read them the more I kept thinking about how much the Imami Shīa Muslims leaders sounded like USA Dispensationalism Christian church and political leaders. Both groups are heavily focused on end time prophecies and use such writings to defend and/or justify their political, economic, and religious choices and behaviors. They also are both awaiting a savior who will usher in a peaceful world-wide rule via an Armageddon type war and are willing to ‘help’ the prophecies along via their choices. If you think I’m reading too much into things, you should probably note that I’m not the only person making these comparison (see http://www.peace-catalyst.net/blog/po...).

In addition to exploring Islamic and Christian eschatology, Rosenberg explores the religious themselves with various characters converting from Islam to Christianity. While this makes sense to a certain degree within the world of the novels, it actually rubbed me wrong as each of the new converts then proceed to help the CIA and USA government (a religious/political marriage that I STONGLY disagree with). The excuse or rationality for this help was that the USA was fighting to stop a war while the Iranian leaders were trying to start one – i.e. Christianity was for peace and Islam was for war.

However that stereotype does not work for me as I know there are plenty of Muslims who long for peace and have no desire to destroy or harm the nation of Israel or the USA. They mostly just want to live life, get a good job, marry, have some kids and enjoy living – just like most Christians, Hindus, Atheists, etc. People are people. As such, I would have like the books to have included a some Muslims heroes fighting for peace from within their religion...

I guess in conclusion I am torn as to what I think about the books… on one hand there were good pop-corn reads with plenty of action coupled with some good thinking points. However, they do seem to promote a theological view and stereotype that I dislike… can I say 2 or 2.5 stars out of 5? :?(less)

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Aug 20, 2012 David rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adventure-thriller

The Tehran Initiative works on a lot of different levels. It is a great spy thriller, depicting the world on the brink of nuclear war, against the background of current events in the middle east. It gives the reader a picture of the theology and politics that separate the Shia and Sunni segments of Islam. It gives a good picture of how Israel fits into the picture, it's government, it's religious roots and motivations.

As a Christian work, the author is faithful to Scripture without being overly...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Christian Fiction Addiction rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The epic tale begun in The Twelfth Imam continues in The Tehran Initiative, as undercover CIA agent David Shirazi continues his race to uncover information about Iran's nuclear weapons and plans to annihilate Israel and the United States of America. Millions of Muslims are fixated on the actions of their messiah, or Twelfth Imam, as he unveils plans to create a united Islamic Caliphate. As Iran and Israel both contemplate launching first strike attacks, agent Shirazi finds himself in more danger...more

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Nov 07, 2011 Kathleen (Kat) Smith rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: christian-action-adventure, christian-fiction, christian-historical-fiction, christian-science-fiction, christian-suspense-fiction, historical-fiction, supense-thriller-fiction

The world is on the brink of disaster and the clock is ticking. Iran has just conducted its first atomic weapons test. Millions of Muslims around the world are convinced their messiah —known as "the Twelfth Imam”—has just arrived on earth. Israeli leaders fear Tehran, under the Twelfth Imam's spell, will soon launch a nuclear attack that could bring about a second holocaust and the annihilation of Israel. The White House fears Jerusalem will strike first, launching a preemptive attack against Ir...more The world is on the brink of disaster and the clock is ticking. Iran has just conducted its first atomic weapons test. Millions of Muslims around the world are convinced their messiah —known as "the Twelfth Imam”—has just arrived on earth. Israeli leaders fear Tehran, under the Twelfth Imam's spell, will soon launch a nuclear attack that could bring about a second holocaust and the annihilation of Israel. The White House fears Jerusalem will strike first, launching a preemptive attack against Iran's nuclear facilities that could cause the entire Middle East to go up in flames, oil prices to skyrocket, and the global economy to collapse. With the stakes high and few viable options left, the president of the United States orders CIA operative David Shirazi and his team to track down and sabotage Iran's nuclear warheads before Iran or Israel can launch a devastating first strike. But will they be too late?

Once again Joel C Rosenberg takes his readers on a compelling, action-packed ride into today's current headlines. Picking up where The Twelfth Imam left off, and Iran in possession of Nuclear Weapons, Israel feels threatened that they will use it against them, and immediately following that, launch an attack against the United States fulfilling what they believe to be prophecy from the Muslim's Twelfth Imam and ushering in order once and for all for those believers in the Islamic kingdoms. Now uniting the Sunni and Shia's under one name, the nations of Kuwait, Pakistan, Sudan and Ethiopia, gather together to take on Israel and the United States and launch an all assault on the infidel nations. Egypt remains united with the US and Israel along with Bahrain for how long remains to be seen.

When the leaders of the United States, Eygpt and Israel gather in New York, the terrorist groups plan an attack during a peace summit using a rocket launcher and explosives to kill the president of all three nations. Can anyone stop this from coming true or will the Arab leaders unite in time, a rare convergence, before the moment slips away allowing Iran to unleash a genocidal apocalypse that will plunge the world into a thousand years of darkness?

I received The Tehran Initiative by Joel C. Rosenberg compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and was not disappointed again. From the first page, I was captivated at a heart racing speed to see just where this was all going. Turning pages as fast as I can, the action is non-stop and just when you think the plot can go any deeper, it plunges you faster than you ever imagined into more explosive heart-pounding action! Not to be missed if you crave adrenaline paced suspense, pick up this 5 out of 5 star novel today. (less)

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Nov 06, 2011 Paul rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

History in the Making or Interesting Fiction?
A Book Review of “The Tehran Initiative”
By: Paul Emery

Iran has finally done it without the intervention of the West; they have possession of a nuclear weapon! Who are they going to target, Israel or America? The CIA has seen this coming, and has an agent there in Iran trying to get a nuclear scientist out of Iran while maintaining his cover. The twelfth Imam seems to have arrived as prophesied in the Holy Qur’an, but is he the Messiah, or the Devil...more History in the Making or Interesting Fiction?
A Book Review of “The Tehran Initiative”
By: Paul Emery

Iran has finally done it without the intervention of the West; they have possession of a nuclear weapon! Who are they going to target, Israel or America? The CIA has seen this coming, and has an agent there in Iran trying to get a nuclear scientist out of Iran while maintaining his cover. The twelfth Imam seems to have arrived as prophesied in the Holy Qur’an, but is he the Messiah, or the Devil Incarnate? Is Israel ready to go it alone; and launch a preemptive strike against the nuclear sites of Iran, even knowing that in doing so it will only add to the tension that is now present in the relationship with her only ally? Is the United States willing to step up to the plate, or only further discredit her status as a true superpower?

These are the questions and intrigue that will greet you in the newest novel from Joel Rosenberg, “The Tehran Initiative”. In this volume you will take a journey through the life of C.I.A. agent David Shirazi, a native Iranian who was brought into the United States just prior to the fall of the Shaw. Agent Shirazi now serves his country by being heavily undercover through a mock business supplying merchandise to the new leader of Iran, and the bringer of a Muslim alliance.

“The Tehran Initiative” is my first exposure to the writing of Joel Rosenberg who has made quite a name for himself since September 11, 2001. My father was a huge fan of Mr. Rosenberg’s work, and so when I was given the opportunity to read this newest volume, I wanted to see what he was all about. All I can say is I was not disappointed. With his knowledge of current events, Joel Rosenberg spins a tale so engrossing, that in one evening I was able to finish this work of 459 pages. There was not one single moment in this book where I wondered what the purpose of that particular section or sentence was about. So intricate was each detail that I was immediately brought into the story in such a way that I could see and hear all that was going on.

One of the biggest questions I had about Joel Rosenberg was how bold was he really going to be in his faith? I’ve seen him on a few interviews, but had never really seen him give a very clear and concise gospel message. That was something that I really wanted to see how it would be portrayed in his novel. All I can say is I was very impressed. With very clear and concise gospel presentation Joel Rosenberg has the gospel clearly explained to his main character. With a very true glimpse of how many former Muslims are coming to saving faith in the one true God, Jesus Christ, so does Mr. Rosenberg have Christ manifested to David Shirazi.

I definitely rate this book a 5 out of 5 in all areas. The story will carry you easily through the pages. Christ is clearly manifested as the only way to heaven. And we again see a true presentation of Iran, and the belief in the Twelfth Imam that compels and drives Iran’s current leader. If you have a chance to pick up this book, you will not be disappointed.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Nov 05, 2011 Cathy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Once again Rosenberg is on the cutting edge of current events. In fact, I think he's creating a new genre' of literature called Current and Future Historical Fiction. When he has U.S. Pres. Jackson growing up in an Islamic state and thinking he knows about these people, who do we think of? Hmmmm? When Iran is secretly building nuclear capabilities, and Israel is secretly and then openly bombing the beejeebees out of the Iranian nuclear sites, what is happening today, Nov. 4th 2011? In the news t...more

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Oct 28, 2011 Victor Gentile rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Joel C. Rosenberg in his book “The Tehran Initiative” Book Two in the The Twelfth Imam series published by Tyndale House Publishers brings us to The Middle East in the possible future.

I think it is entirely possible that Joel Rosenberg is a spy. Not your typical spy I suppose but since I have never met one and have no reference point based on what I read all I can say is he must be some kind of spy. Mr. Rosenberg knows a lot about how governments work. He has a fascinating amount of information...more Joel C. Rosenberg in his book “The Tehran Initiative” Book Two in the The Twelfth Imam series published by Tyndale House Publishers brings us to The Middle East in the possible future.

I think it is entirely possible that Joel Rosenberg is a spy. Not your typical spy I suppose but since I have never met one and have no reference point based on what I read all I can say is he must be some kind of spy. Mr. Rosenberg knows a lot about how governments work. He has a fascinating amount of information about what is going on in the Muslim world and he has written a fast-paced thriller to prove it.

Here's an exerpt from the jacket of the book: "The world is on the brink of disaster and the clock is ticking. Iran has just conducted its first atomic weapons test. Millions of Muslims around the world are convinced their messiah--known as "the Twelfth Imam"--has just arrived on earth. Israeli leaders fear Tehran, under the Twelfth Imam's spell, will soon launch a nuclear attack that could bring about a second holocaust and the annihilation of Israel. The White House fears Jerusalem will strike first, launching a preemptive attack against Iran's nuclear facilities that could cause the entire Middle East to go up in flames, oil prices to skyrocket, and the global economy to collapse. With the stakes high and few viable options left, the president of the United States orders CIA operative David Shirazi and his team to track down and sabotage Iran's nuclear warheads before Iran or Israel can launch a devastating first strike."

In "The Tehran Initiative" Joel C. Rosenberg weaves together headlines from our current news with Biblical prophecy. This book is entertaining and will have you flipping pages as fast as you can read but, be prepared, it is also thought-provoking and will have you looking up from the page going, "wow". I do not recommend starting this book late at night because it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down. Mr. Rosenberg is an excellent writer and knows how to twist your nerve endings as he tightens the suspense. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”(less)

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Oct 20, 2011 Dana Burgess rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Let me begin by admitting I know little to nothing about the sects of Islam or their beliefs. I am not overly aware of Mid-East politics or policy. And, although I am Christian and have a good understanding of the Bible, I am not in any way a scriptorian. In other words, I am likely the epitome of the readership for this novel. It is Christian Fiction and there are lots of references to Biblical prophesy throughout the book.

Technically, this is a very well written book. The writing style is stro...more Let me begin by admitting I know little to nothing about the sects of Islam or their beliefs. I am not overly aware of Mid-East politics or policy. And, although I am Christian and have a good understanding of the Bible, I am not in any way a scriptorian. In other words, I am likely the epitome of the readership for this novel. It is Christian Fiction and there are lots of references to Biblical prophesy throughout the book.

Technically, this is a very well written book. The writing style is strong and flowing. Joel Rosenberg hooks the reader from page one and the story flows effortlessly from there. I have not read the first of this series and I did not at any time feel like I was missing out. 'The Tehran Initiative' reads well as a stand alone book. Although I am sure the character development began in the first novel of the series, there was no hesitation, on my part, in getting involved with the characters in this book. The author has included a list before the story that explains who each character is and where they fit in the intrigue. I have said it before and I'll say it again - I love it when authors do this! I had no trouble keeping up with the characters while reading but it was nice to know there was a fall back if I needed it.

The main character of the novel is David Shirazi, a CIA operative working undercover in Iran. As a sub-plot, David struggles to balance his loyalty to his country and job; his devotion to his family and his desire to have a 'normal' life and family of his own. His struggle is palpable. It was heart wrenching when he had to leave his parents for the assignment which is central to the story.

Although essential to the plot, the one problem I had with Mr Rosenberg's novel was the portrayal of Islam and the Islamic people as either naive followers or outright evil; the nemesis of the Christians. I am sure there are followers of both religions that feel this way but I am not one of them. It is a peeve I have with a lot of Christian fiction that the purpose of the books seems to be more to convert than to educate, enlighten and edify. I certainly felt this was true of 'The Tehran Initiative'. It would have appealed to me more if the story had been kept, while at the same time weeding out some of the 'Bible thumping'. Often the scriptures referred to in the book were interpreted in ways I was a little uncomfortable with. (again I would point out that I am NOT a scriptorian)

Overall, 'The Tehran Initiative', is a strong, compelling political thriller. My husband has been chomping at the bit waiting for me to finish so that he can start. It will be interesting to get his take on it. (less)

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Oct 18, 2011 Gail Welborn rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviews

The Tehran Initiative, by Joel Rosenberg, Tyndale House Publishers, 2011, 480 Pages, ISBN-13: 978-1414319353, $26.99 http://www.joelrosenberg.com/

The Tehran Initiative picks up where The Twelfth Imam ends, with David Shirazi, undercover CIA agent and Iran’s “highest ranking nuclear scientist,” Dr. Malik’s race to reach a safe house. Upon arrival, David dresses Malik’s wounds and then his own. Both men relieved that their desperate bid for freedom, hindered by sirens, gunfire, car chases and a de...more

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Aug 25, 2011 Laura rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The Tehran Initiative the sequel to Joel C. Rosenberg's The Twelfth Imam, drops you into the action and never lets up until the last page.

The world is on the brink of nuclear disaster and David Shirazi, aka Reza Tabrizi an undercover CIA agent is doing all he can to stop the new Mahdi (The Twelfth Imam) from attacking Israel and then the U.S. In addition, the Mahdi is seizing control of central countries that surround Israel, forming a new Caliphate and that makes Israel nervous. When David find...more The Tehran Initiative the sequel to Joel C. Rosenberg's The Twelfth Imam, drops you into the action and never lets up until the last page.

The world is on the brink of nuclear disaster and David Shirazi, aka Reza Tabrizi an undercover CIA agent is doing all he can to stop the new Mahdi (The Twelfth Imam) from attacking Israel and then the U.S. In addition, the Mahdi is seizing control of central countries that surround Israel, forming a new Caliphate and that makes Israel nervous. When David finds proof of an imminent attack will the U.S. President listen to him or still hold out for peaceful, diplomatic measures? Will Israel strike first ignoring both the U.S. and the UN's warnings that they will withdraw their support if they do?

As I read this book I started to get lost between fiction and reality, because the events Rosenberg describes are all too plausible. Rosenberg has become known as a bit of a prophet when it comes to writing his books and I wouldn't be the least bit surprised that the events he depicts in this book, actually happen - and soon. While the Muslims wait for their Twelfth Imam, Christians look to Jesus imminent return and The Tehran Initiative gives us a realistic look at what could be.

There was only one problem with this book. It had obviously never seen an editor. I was absolutely astounded on how many typos and grammatical errors I found. At times, it was difficult to decipher what Rosenberg meant. I reviewed this book on my Kindle and the formatting was off as well. I have seen self-published books edited better than this one was. I was not informed that I would receive an unedited copy. If it was an unedited copy just for reviewers then problem solved. But, as far as I know, I received a finished copy and if this is what the public is going to get, then someone really dropped the ball.

That said, the book was good despite all the errors and I would still recommend it, because I sincerely believe that the events in this book may soon take place. It is definitely a must read. (less)

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Oct 24, 2011 Ann rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The Tehran Initiative by Joel Rosenberg is a fast-paced, political thriller. I received a complimentary advance copy from the publisher and read the book in five days. Written with a predominantly evangelical Christian audience in mind, Rosenberg weaves current political events, historical Middle East tensions and Islamic and Christian eschatology to craft a tale that is plausible, riveting and provocative.

I struggled a bit with some of Rosenberg’s characterizations, not because I necessarily d...more

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Apr 08, 2012 Poiema rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was the most exciting of Joel Rosenberg's books, in my opinion. Fast paced, full of intrigue and numerous twists and turns, the reader is allowed a glimpse inside the CIA, the Mossad, the Middle Eastern Caliphate, and the Iranian ring of nuclear scientists. The time comes when Israel must take a pre-emptive strike on Iran in order to spare their country from a nuclear holocaust. The action wins the displeasure of the U.S. Commander in Chief, President Jackson. Jackson drags his feet on taki...more

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Oct 24, 2011 Digna rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed

Chilling and thought provoking, a fictional scenario of what may await the Middle East.

The Tehran Initiative is an intense and chilling fictional narrative of what could happen if the Twelfth Imam, a Muslim messiah and prophet should transpire in the middle east. The Twelfth Imam is depicted in the Koran as returning to the middle east, as was dictated to Mohammad by the archangel Gabriel, and is accepted as the foundation of Islamic law. As the Twelfth Imam works his magic and deception acquiri...more Chilling and thought provoking, a fictional scenario of what may await the Middle East.

The Tehran Initiative is an intense and chilling fictional narrative of what could happen if the Twelfth Imam, a Muslim messiah and prophet should transpire in the middle east. The Twelfth Imam is depicted in the Koran as returning to the middle east, as was dictated to Mohammad by the archangel Gabriel, and is accepted as the foundation of Islamic law. As the Twelfth Imam works his magic and deception acquiring more and more followers and leaders for his agenda, which includes nuclear weapons. Behind the scenes the CIA works diligently at acquiring information as to what that actual agenda may be and what the motives of the Twelfth Imam really encompass. As the main character, David Shirazi, an undercover CIA agent races through Iran in search of the men who may know the locations of the nuclear warheads, he struggles with his faith in God, while his dying mother back in the U.S. is on her last breath. Meanwhile, the president of the U.S., even after almost losing his life during an attack on U.S soil, which left the president of Egypt dead and the Prime Minister of Israel badly injured, is totally rejecting any ideas of a war with Iran and has also fallen into the deception of the Twelfth Imam who is claiming to only bring peace. The U.S. president refuses to back up Israel and warns them of sanctions being brought against them should they strike Iran. The President continues to stick to his word, even after being briefed by the CIA, who have acquired information that Iran is moving nukes into position to fire at Israel. I found it really ironic that as I was reading an email about being accepted to review this book, at that same time on a news channel I was watching, an update came on, on how Iran is building a nuclear facility. Rosenberg has not only created a realistic scenario with The Tehran Initiative but a eye opening possibility of what may happen should Iran come through and build a nuclear plant or even acquire nuclear warheads. Since Iran apparently does have and operate 3,000 uranium-enriching centrifuges which they claim to use for the production of electricity, these same centrifuges are capable of producing material for nuclear weapons. Rosenberg has totally given me the creeps through his depiction and this scenario and left me wondering if his words of fiction can actually become a possibility. The Tehran Initiative truly spikes ones curiosity and interest and leaves one to contemplate, bringing one to the realization and understanding that what happens across the globe may not be as far away as one may believe it to be.
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Apr 26, 2013 Jerry Mclaughlin rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Good action thriller with a twist that is exciting for some & tedious for others. I believe the espionage, diplomacy and military threads are exciting and well done, a la Clancy or Ludlum. The personal touches inside the lives of the characters are less well done, but do add to the feeling of who you are 'rooting for' in the book. The poor and isolated development of the American President is almost propagandized to the point of caricature of our current President. Finally, the bible prophec...more

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Jan 10, 2013 David rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: religion

This book is an excellent example of how expectations can ruin a reading experience. A friend recommended this book because of my interest in Iran. I expected to learn about Iran history and politics in the framework of a spy thriller.

However, it ended up being a Christian evangelical book advertised as an eye-popping, educational spy thriller. In short, things started out okay, but I found it ridiculous when David, the main character, started to have his gradual conversion experience. Marseille...more

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Mar 19, 2012 Mark John Ostrum rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Christians

All I can say is I hope he is still writing.

I have read his Benet books, and also have read this entire series to date. The man left me hanging on every word as I progressed through his novels. Then, at the end of each novel he left me hanging on a very, very high and treacherous cliff.

From straight out of the headlines, Rosenberg has the ability to attach Biblical significance to the leading stories of today, especially those surrounding Iran and its repetitively stated mission to wipe Israel a...more

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Jun 19, 2012 Wendy Jones rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Having read some of Rosenbergs other books. I was really looking forward to,this one. It is the second in a series of End Times novels which take a premillennial stance. The basic premise of the book is Irannahs developed nuclear warheads and the head of the new world order has emerged in the guise of a Muslim cleric called the 12th Imam. The hero of the story David Shirazi has been sent inside Iran to if d out the location of the warheads. Meanwhile Israel are planning an attack on Iran whilst...more

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Oct 11, 2011 Daenel rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Do you like realistic Christian fiction? Then you will absolutely love this book. The action is fast paced, the drama is intense and the plot is believable (something I usually find lacking in Christian fiction). Set in the present, the book covers 6 days in the life of undercover agent David Shirazi as he tries to prevent the Middle East from becoming a powder keg.

Normally, I don’t read suspense/espionage books but I was immediately caught up in the story. Rosenberg creates a realistic scene wh...more

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Jun 24, 2012 Mark rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I read and reviewed the first book in this series, The Tweflth Imam, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I couldn't wait for the next book to come out, and it finally did. It starts where the first book left off and launches right into fast-paced drama, suspense, and international intrigue.

Rosenberg has created a great character in David Shirazi. He is a CIA agent, but is a very complex individual. I enjoyed reading more about him and seeing even more character development done on him.

Joel Rosenberg know...more

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May 25, 2012 Chuck rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The ingredients in this recipe are fairly typical; Iran developes nuclear weapons, CIA operatives on the ground in Iran, does Israel launch a pre-emptive strike, will the U.S.A. support Israel if they do. The author though crafts his characters into believable and likeable people and causes you to want to hear their stories. He does something else; there is zero profanity in this novel and, in my opinion, no emphasis is lost. He also makes it abundantly clear that many of his characters are prac...more

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Mar 17, 2012 Mike B rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

the second in Rosenberg's series Middle Eastern eschatological thrillers. The story centers around the Iranian end times (eschatolgy) teaching of a messianic figure, the 12th Imam, rising up to unite the Muslim world and bring the whole world under the submission of Allah. Standing in the way is secret agent, David Shirazi, the son of Iranian immigrants and on an existential quest of his own.

I enjoyed the first book, The Twelth Imam, but found that Rosenberg too often used God as a convenience...more

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Mar 04, 2012 Larry rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Another great story from Joel Rosenberg. This is continuation of the Twelvth Iman and another book will follow. The setting so current I sometimes forget I am reading a novel and not the news about what is happening in the world. Joel is very very current in what he writes about and is extremely perceptive on current affairs in Iran, Israel and the middle east. Scary thoughts about what could be. I will probably offend some who may read this review, but the President Jackson depicted in this boo...more

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Mar 08, 2012 Teri Moote rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Takes "taken from today's headlines" to a whole new level. A rising new spiritual leader in the Middle East is putting together the Caliphate as Iran finishes developing nuclear weapons. Is diplomacy with the US President a stall tactic or is it the last chance for peace? Will Israel strike first? And, of course, our hero is working tirelessly and courageously in Iran to find the weapons and stop the upcoming war. I enjoy a good hero who has integrity, honor, and loves his country. This is the s...more

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Feb 20, 2013 Elizabeth rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Another book from Rosenberg. Excellent plot. I was a bit shocked of course by the hero killing another man. That was to be expected in this kind of book. To kill or to be killed in times of war. I had to read the second half in diagonal as it was a bit long. Loved all the info given as background to the book. Well researched. I hope it is true because i really don't know all the intricacies about the political plottings.
I loved the faith input into the novel and the overall decency of the book....more

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Mar 17, 2013 Sue rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This is the follow-up book to The Twelfth Imam. I liked the first book, but this one was even better. The scenario is very believable and President Jackson bears an amazing resemblance to our current president. You needn't have read the first book first, but it makes this one more satisfying. The characters continue on from the first book. I believe perhaps a third book is coming, but if not, it still gives the reader plenty to think about. I like it that the scripture is quoted and conversions...more

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Jan 19, 2012 Rodrigo rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Good read, captivating thriller, filled with geopolitics intrigue, spy games, terror plots, etc... Joel Rosenberg grabs the current state of tensions with US-Israel-Iran relations and adds another religious element to the mix, and makes it a compelling story.

The one negative side is that the author sometimes inserts Christian gospel topics and tries to preach to the reader (apparently, Rosenberg being a fervent evangelical Christian, tried to do this in all his books). Without this element this...more

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Mar 16, 2012 Rick rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I should read more especially after reading The Twelfth Imam by the same author. After finishing it I went looking for a sequel and sure enough he had written one. I got this book on Wednesday and finished it today. You feel like you are reading today's news in both books until you get near the end of this book. Joel keeps you in suspense and not wanting to put the book down. I am now hoping there is another sequel as he has left an opening. If you enjoy suspense and fast moving here and now rea...more

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Nov 09, 2011 Michelle rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: blog-tour-book, christianfiction, forreview

This book was fantastic. I was enthralled with the theme and the heartbeat of the story. I enjoy political thrillers, but only if the plot was believable and the characterization well done. This book had both in its favor, and I loved that it was well-written and easy to follow. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and appreciated the many details in this book. The author knows how to draw the reader in so they forget they are reading. I love that.

David was my favorite character. Ded...more

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Apr 10, 2013 Brenten Gilbert rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: faith, fiction

First, a word. The Tehran Initiative is a continuation of Rosenberg's Twelfth Imam series. This is book two. Previously, we've been formally introduced to all the main characters and should understand the emotional tensions that exist. There is a recap at the beginning of this book to catch readers up somewhat, but it is highly recommended that you read book one, The Twelfth Imam before venturing into this story. Now, for the review...

If you thought the first book was fast-paced, buckle up. TEHR...more

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title link	preview: The Tehran Initiative
avg rating	preview: The Tehran Initiative Goodreads rating: 4.25 (1678 ratings)
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The Tehran Initiative (The Twelfth Imam #2)

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