Scot Harvath is a man on a mission, brought in to rescue the daughter of a well-connected supporter of the President of the United States, he grudgingly travels to war torn Afghanistan in a bid to bring the woman home.

Right off the bat I realised that “The Apostle” by Brad Thor was going to be an intelligent read. A stranger to his Scot Harvath novels (this is his eighth by the way) I was curious to see how an ex member of the Department of Homeland security would bring his knowledge to print. Would it be exciting? Would it be a thriller?

The answer to both questions is a categorical Yes!

As I delved deeper I discovered an intelligent and consuming plot that entertained from start to finish. Not only is the book a fast paced rollercoaster but Brad Thorn educates the reader with a plethora of Afghan words for clothing, greetings and food, not to mention the military acronyms – The Apostle truly is a knowledgeable and all-encompassing ride.

Although part of a well-trodden series, I’d certainly class “The Apostle” as a standalone story despite clear references to past relationships and events. Humorous in parts, I found the narrative compelling and easily held my interest throughout. Intense at times the book follows two clear paths; that of the kidnapped doctor (Julia Gallo) in Afghanistan and President Alden in Washington.

I thoroughly enjoyed both halves of the book but for me the atmospheric storytelling in Afghanistan won the day, it just had that little extra. We learn the shocking attitude and upbringing of the Taliban where children as young as three are subjected to videos of suicide bombings, beheadings, torture and rape. No shock therefore when we find Julia at one point, stuck in a mud cell, facing four young boys who have no respect for women.

Full Review on my blog :- http://www.milorambles.com/2010/11/13...