Clancy's novels are a pleasure to read, especially because in the pages prior to the start of the novel, he (or those writing in his name) lists all the principal characters and their description. I find myself checking that group of pages frequently to better understand his novels. TERMINAL VELOCITY has many characters to keep track of. Primarily, it is the story of Jack Ryan, one of Clancy's best characters. The pages keep turning as the reader follows the many dangerous assignments that Ryan and his many co-workers and spies undertake. It is one exciting read, as are many of Clancy's novels.