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Gabriel Allon #16
The Black Widow
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Mystery & Thriller (2016)A network of terror.
A web of deceit.
A deadly game of vengeance.
Legendary spy and art restorer Gabriel Allon is poised to become the chief of Israel’s secret intelligence service. But on the eve of his promotion, events conspire to lure him into the field for one final operation. ISIS has detonated a massive bomb in the Marais district of Paris, and a desperate French government wants Gabriel to eliminate the man responsible before he can strike again.
They call him Saladin …
He is a terrorist mastermind whose ambition is as grandiose as his nom de guerre, a man so elusive that even his nationality is not known. Shielded by sophisticated encryption software, his network communicates in total secrecy, leaving the West blind to his planning—and leaving Gabriel no choice but to insert an agent into the most dangerous terrorist group the world has ever known. Natalie Mizrahi is an extraordinary young doctor as brave as she is beautiful. At Gabriel’s behest, she will pose as an ISIS recruit in waiting, a ticking time bomb, a black widow out for blood.
Her perilous mission will take her from the restive suburbs of Paris to the island of Santorini and the brutal world of the Islamic State’s new caliphate, and eventually to Washington, D.C., where the ruthless Saladin is plotting an apocalyptic night of terror that will alter the course of history. The Black Widow is a riveting thriller of shocking prescience. But it is also a thoughtful journey into the new heart of darkness that will haunt readers long after they have turned the final page.
A web of deceit.
A deadly game of vengeance.
Legendary spy and art restorer Gabriel Allon is poised to become the chief of Israel’s secret intelligence service. But on the eve of his promotion, events conspire to lure him into the field for one final operation. ISIS has detonated a massive bomb in the Marais district of Paris, and a desperate French government wants Gabriel to eliminate the man responsible before he can strike again.
They call him Saladin …
He is a terrorist mastermind whose ambition is as grandiose as his nom de guerre, a man so elusive that even his nationality is not known. Shielded by sophisticated encryption software, his network communicates in total secrecy, leaving the West blind to his planning—and leaving Gabriel no choice but to insert an agent into the most dangerous terrorist group the world has ever known. Natalie Mizrahi is an extraordinary young doctor as brave as she is beautiful. At Gabriel’s behest, she will pose as an ISIS recruit in waiting, a ticking time bomb, a black widow out for blood.
Her perilous mission will take her from the restive suburbs of Paris to the island of Santorini and the brutal world of the Islamic State’s new caliphate, and eventually to Washington, D.C., where the ruthless Saladin is plotting an apocalyptic night of terror that will alter the course of history. The Black Widow is a riveting thriller of shocking prescience. But it is also a thoughtful journey into the new heart of darkness that will haunt readers long after they have turned the final page.
528 pages, Hardcover
First published July 12, 2016
4482 people are currently reading
14167 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Silva
183 books9,387 followersDaniel Silva was born in Michigan in 1960 and raised in California where he received his BA from Fresno State. Silva began his writing career as a journalist for United Press International (UPI), traveling in the Middle East and covering the Iran-Iraq war, terrorism and political conflicts. From UPI he moved to CNN, where he eventually became executive producer of its Washington-based public policy programming. In 1994 he began work on his first novel, The Unlikely Spy, a surprise best seller that won critical acclaim. He turned to writing full time in 1997 and all of his books have been New York Times/national best sellers, translated into 25 languages and published across Europe and the world. He lives in Washington, D.C.
Series:
* Michael Osbourne
* Gabriel Allon
Series:
* Michael Osbourne
* Gabriel Allon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,536 reviews
August 6, 2016
Daniel Silva has entertained and even educated us, throughout the last 15 novels featuring the brilliant and enigmatic hero, Gabriel Allon - Israeli intelligence agent, super spy extraordinaire, art restorer, family man. We have been taken on journeys to different places throughout the globe, met a cast of varied, interesting and compelling characters. Creative and inventive plots filled with present day situations and past history that affects our lives today.
The Black Widow, the latest 16th book in the Gabriel Allon series takes frightening and believable to new a new level.....the fictional events that begin with a shocking bombing in Paris that reveals the growing terrorist threat to world peace, take you to the dark world of ISIS, the disturbing brainwashing of young people to join a cause filled with hate and death, is so plausible and relatable.
It was interesting to read that the author had written this book before the bombings in France took place this year. I am so impressed by the research that is done with each book that he has written. The vivid imagery is truly astounding. Powerful.
A dark ,disturbing and brilliantly written story
The Black Widow, the latest 16th book in the Gabriel Allon series takes frightening and believable to new a new level.....the fictional events that begin with a shocking bombing in Paris that reveals the growing terrorist threat to world peace, take you to the dark world of ISIS, the disturbing brainwashing of young people to join a cause filled with hate and death, is so plausible and relatable.
It was interesting to read that the author had written this book before the bombings in France took place this year. I am so impressed by the research that is done with each book that he has written. The vivid imagery is truly astounding. Powerful.
“ISIS doesn’t crucify only because it is cruel. It crucifies because, according to the Koran, crucifixion is one of the proscribed punishments for the enemies of Islam. It crucifies because it must. We civilized Westerners find this almost impossible to comprehend.”It seems that this may be the last book in the Allon Series, which makes me feel pretty sad. I have loved this series for years and Gabriel Allon has become one of my favorite fictional secret agents. Hopefully he will make a "guest" appearance in future books.
A dark ,disturbing and brilliantly written story
“Take the operation, Gabriel—for Hannah Weinberg, if for no other reason. Get inside the network. Find out who Saladin really is and where he’s operating. And then put him down before another bomb explodes.”
July 18, 2020
I'm not much of Daniel Silva fan and picked this one up after reading the reviews. It was tough dropping into the story but once the conflict was set it really took off. I'm going to go back and read the others now. Maybe they are constructed the same way. I really enjoyed the main character and the new secondary character who played the Black Widow. I hope we see more of her. Part of how I rate a book is based on how much I think about the book afterward. This book was well worth the read. I just wish when the crisis was concluded the book ended. The story went on another 40 pages or so and was not at all compelling. I don't know why it was there unless it was to set the background for the next book. Not a cliff hanger but background.
Even so I highly recommend this novel.
David Putnam Author of The Bruno Johnson Series.
Even so I highly recommend this novel.
David Putnam Author of The Bruno Johnson Series.
July 17, 2016
For over fifteen years, Daniel Silva has rewarded his readers with one of the best spy/action heroes of the last half century. Not only were the books page turning thrillers but they illuminated subjects such as the Holocaust and the Israeli-Palestinian tensions.
With Black Widow, Silva has departed substantially from his former format. He has written an anti-Obama/Clinton political polemic with very little of Allon in the book. It is fitting that the book blaming the rise of ISIS solely on America and its most recent president has been published on the eve of the Republican convention and has been praised by Hugh Hewitt, a leading conservative talk show host.
Silva credits his wife, Jamie Gangel, a CNN correspondent for ideas in the book. She should be suspended during the duration of the presidential campaign for her bias.
Silva has done a great disservice to his fans by using his popularity to spout out conservative discourse under the guise of an Allon thriller.
With Black Widow, Silva has departed substantially from his former format. He has written an anti-Obama/Clinton political polemic with very little of Allon in the book. It is fitting that the book blaming the rise of ISIS solely on America and its most recent president has been published on the eve of the Republican convention and has been praised by Hugh Hewitt, a leading conservative talk show host.
Silva credits his wife, Jamie Gangel, a CNN correspondent for ideas in the book. She should be suspended during the duration of the presidential campaign for her bias.
Silva has done a great disservice to his fans by using his popularity to spout out conservative discourse under the guise of an Allon thriller.
September 10, 2016
Another excellent high tension Gabriel Allon story, this one more frightening than most since it deals with current unresolved and perhaps unresolvable terrorist acts. I won't say more about the plot since I don't want to spoil it. It's a good read.
HOWEVER ... With one important exception, Silva repeatedly expresses great disdain for a not at all disguised President Obama, which I find overdone and offensive. On the other hand, there is almost no criticism of Israeli actions which, in my mind, have made things worse rather than better, and continue to do so.
Now you can say that Silva writes novels, not political commentary, but when he chooses to insert his political opinions in his novel, then it is fair to disagree with those views on a political rather than literary level. I think Silva's take on our President is simplistic, failing to recognize the complexities of decisions at that level. To the extent that Silva is well read, his opinions have impact, and I think he has given too little attention to the real-life consequence of his writing.
HOWEVER ... With one important exception, Silva repeatedly expresses great disdain for a not at all disguised President Obama, which I find overdone and offensive. On the other hand, there is almost no criticism of Israeli actions which, in my mind, have made things worse rather than better, and continue to do so.
Now you can say that Silva writes novels, not political commentary, but when he chooses to insert his political opinions in his novel, then it is fair to disagree with those views on a political rather than literary level. I think Silva's take on our President is simplistic, failing to recognize the complexities of decisions at that level. To the extent that Silva is well read, his opinions have impact, and I think he has given too little attention to the real-life consequence of his writing.
June 28, 2016
I’ve been rereading the Gabriel Allon novels this summer, and, while I still find the early installments entertaining, it’s been interesting to see how much Silva has grown as a writer. The Black Widow is his best yet—which is bittersweet, since it seems that Allon really is about to assume a less active role. There’s the sense, in this novel, that one era is coming to a close and a new era is beginning. And, if this is the darkest of Silva’s stories so far, it’s because the real world is providing him with ample material.
August 29, 2021
3.5 stars
In this 16th book in the 'Gabriel Allon' series, the Israeli agent is after an ISIS terrorist. The book can be read as a standalone, though familiarity with the characters is a bonus.
*****
In the last few 'Gabriel Allon' books the Israeli agent has been preparing to take charge of his country's spy agency, 'The Office.'
Gabriel's just about to start the top job when ISIS terrorists stage horrific attacks in France and Belgium.
Several Israeli citizens, as well as Gabriel's friend Hannah Weinberg, are among those killed in France. So Gabriel postpones his promotion (once again) to chase down 'Saladin', the ISIS mastermind who planned the bombings.
To get close to the elusive Saladin, Gabriel has to insert an agent deep into ISIS - a very difficult task. To accomplish the feat Gabriel recruits Dr. Natalie Mizrahi, a French-born physician who emigrated to Israel. Natalie - who speaks French, English, and Arabic - is given the secret identity 'Dr. Leila Hadawi', a woman of Palestinian ancestry. As Leila, the new agent works as a doctor in a Muslim neighborhood in France.
She also cruises ISIS sites online, claiming to want revenge against the western murderers who killed her fiancé. After a few months ISIS recruiters approach Leila, and she agrees to work for the Caliphate. This is when the REALLY dangerous part of Natalie's assignment begins.
The ISIS headhunter arranges for Leila to take a month-long vacation in Greece. After a couple of days, however, Leila is spirited off to Syria - where she's interrogated by a top ISIS official. Apparently passing muster, Leila starts training to be an ISIS terrorist. Meanwhile, she keeps her eyes and ears open for information about Saladin.
The rest of the story plays out with plenty of suspense, tragedy, and heroics....plus a teeny bit of romance.
If you're familiar with previous stories in the series - which usually involve people running all over the world assassinating enemies - this book takes a different tack. A large portion of the narrative describes Natalie's training to be an operative.
By the end I almost felt I knew how to be a spy myself (though I'd never in a million years have Natalie's courage).
I enjoyed the book but - to be honest - I prefer the earlier Gabriel Allon tales where he's more involved in the action. Still, this is a good thriller with a minor cliffhanger ending. I look forward to the next book.
Recommended to readers who like espionage stories, especially fans of Gabriel Allon.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/
July 30, 2017
A gripping spy thriller from Daniel Silva that reaches for heights set by John Le Carre but does not quite get there. The Black Widow was my introduction to Silva, even though he's been a prolific author for years and I'm a lover of spy novels and thrillers. How I let this excellent writer go unnoticed for so long, I do not know.
I enjoyed the first quarter of the book; thoroughly adored the second two quarters of the book; then found the last quarter didn't live up to the intelligence of the middle of the book.
Let me explain. The book told in closely held third person from mostly Gabriel Allon's (a recurring Silva character) point of view but also from the Black Widow's perspective started out slow--the first quarter. Silva spent more time than was necessary to acquaint the reader with his myriad characters. The author offered up a compelling teaser and then relaxed and leisurely introduced each of his characters and their motivations. While I'm a lover of Le Carre and his sometimes slow and deliberate pacing, Silva's character introductions lacked Le Carre's tension and were needlessly long. Maybe it's a commercial necessity to make sure new readers know the history of characters he's written about many times. It didn't seem necessary.
Once Silva accomplished his introduction, and we slipped into the middle half of the book, the gripping suspense began. My advice: if you read this book and find it slow at first, don't give up, read on. The middle part of this book was pure gold and comparisons to Le Carre are valid. The voice of the characters and the jeopardy he puts them in brought a level of suspense and tension that is up there with the best.
The last quarter of the book disappointed. I'm sure some will have read it and feel awestruck by the sheer size and scope of the ending. I understand that view but felt that Silva substituted size and scope for intelligence. He expertly created several fantastic characters and pitted them against each other in the smartest way possible, then ended the story not with the surgeon's scalpel, but instead with the butcher's cleaver. I expected more. Still, four stars and highly recommended.
Note: I listened to this and didn't read it.
I enjoyed the first quarter of the book; thoroughly adored the second two quarters of the book; then found the last quarter didn't live up to the intelligence of the middle of the book.
Let me explain. The book told in closely held third person from mostly Gabriel Allon's (a recurring Silva character) point of view but also from the Black Widow's perspective started out slow--the first quarter. Silva spent more time than was necessary to acquaint the reader with his myriad characters. The author offered up a compelling teaser and then relaxed and leisurely introduced each of his characters and their motivations. While I'm a lover of Le Carre and his sometimes slow and deliberate pacing, Silva's character introductions lacked Le Carre's tension and were needlessly long. Maybe it's a commercial necessity to make sure new readers know the history of characters he's written about many times. It didn't seem necessary.
Once Silva accomplished his introduction, and we slipped into the middle half of the book, the gripping suspense began. My advice: if you read this book and find it slow at first, don't give up, read on. The middle part of this book was pure gold and comparisons to Le Carre are valid. The voice of the characters and the jeopardy he puts them in brought a level of suspense and tension that is up there with the best.
The last quarter of the book disappointed. I'm sure some will have read it and feel awestruck by the sheer size and scope of the ending. I understand that view but felt that Silva substituted size and scope for intelligence. He expertly created several fantastic characters and pitted them against each other in the smartest way possible, then ended the story not with the surgeon's scalpel, but instead with the butcher's cleaver. I expected more. Still, four stars and highly recommended.
Note: I listened to this and didn't read it.
August 3, 2016
I love Gabriel Allon and have read all of the previous 15 books, but I found this book tiresome for a few reasons. First, Daniel Silva has apparently never met a non-beautiful woman worth writing about. As a female reader, this has gotten quite old by now. Isn't it enough to make the new woman featured in this book a multi-lingual, courageous doctor? Can't she just be normal looking and still be worth writing about? I've found Silva's insistence on creating a world populated almost exclusively by beautiful women to be a bit annoying throughout the series, but it was especially wearing in this novel, perhaps because Silva is once again relying on the trope of inserting a beautiful girl into a terrorist network. You'll notice that the female terrorists had to be beautiful, too.
Second, Silva repeatedly uses the same boilerplate language to describe Gabriel and the other members of the Lightning team from one book to the next. While I appreciate the need to introduce new readers to the characters, his reliance on the exact same language from one book to the next starts to feel like he's phoning it in, and limits the opportunities to deepen the characters and describe them with more nuance. I wish he would mix it up a little.
More specifically to this book, I found his expositions on politics to be especially heavy handed and clumsy. Again, we get it... You don't like President Obama. I wouldn't be bothered by that if it hadn't been such a distraction from the narrative in this novel. There was way less Gabriel Allon and way more potshots at the current administration. I think Silva is at his best when he's telling stories, not beating us over the head with his political views. In the past, he has been very successful at showing us how complex the political situation in the Middle East is when he is telling people's stories.
In sum, I think the book would have been better if Silva had focused more on developing his characters and telling a story he hasn't told before. Not sure I'll read the next one if this is how he'll write them moving forward, which is too bad because I've really liked this series on the whole.
Second, Silva repeatedly uses the same boilerplate language to describe Gabriel and the other members of the Lightning team from one book to the next. While I appreciate the need to introduce new readers to the characters, his reliance on the exact same language from one book to the next starts to feel like he's phoning it in, and limits the opportunities to deepen the characters and describe them with more nuance. I wish he would mix it up a little.
More specifically to this book, I found his expositions on politics to be especially heavy handed and clumsy. Again, we get it... You don't like President Obama. I wouldn't be bothered by that if it hadn't been such a distraction from the narrative in this novel. There was way less Gabriel Allon and way more potshots at the current administration. I think Silva is at his best when he's telling stories, not beating us over the head with his political views. In the past, he has been very successful at showing us how complex the political situation in the Middle East is when he is telling people's stories.
In sum, I think the book would have been better if Silva had focused more on developing his characters and telling a story he hasn't told before. Not sure I'll read the next one if this is how he'll write them moving forward, which is too bad because I've really liked this series on the whole.
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March 18, 2023
4.5-Stars >> 5.0-Stars - "I Really Liked It!"
"The Black Widow" (Gabriel Allon, #16) by Daniel Silva
Audiobook: 13:43 Hours - Narrator: George Guidall
From my "Reading Activity":
March 14, 2023 – 32.0%
"I am enjoying this book. It's good to be back in the world of Gabriel Allon!"
March 15, 2023 – 54.0%
"I find it difficult to stop listening to this book!"
March 16, 2023 – 70.0%
March 18, 2023 – 100% - "Finished Reading"!
Review to follow:
"The Black Widow" (Gabriel Allon, #16) by Daniel Silva
Audiobook: 13:43 Hours - Narrator: George Guidall
From my "Reading Activity":
March 14, 2023 – 32.0%
"I am enjoying this book. It's good to be back in the world of Gabriel Allon!"
March 15, 2023 – 54.0%
"I find it difficult to stop listening to this book!"
March 16, 2023 – 70.0%
March 18, 2023 – 100% - "Finished Reading"!
Review to follow:
January 20, 2023
“It seems history has absolved you of your sins.”
THE BLACK WIDOW was the first novel of Daniel Silva’s I read. It was the 16th in his Gabriel Allon series, and I liked it so much I went back to the first book and began reading. Now I am back up to number 16 while I’m reading through the series in order. This is the one that started it all for me. Having read my way “back” to it, I clearly see why it captured me those years ago. Initially I picked this book up because I heard a TV commentator mention how prescient it was with what was going on the world today. And sadly, it is.
Although a fictional thriller, this novel opens with ISIS terror attacks in Paris that are too real for comfort and the novel is unflinching in its portrayal of radical Islam and its ultimate goal of recreating an Islamic caliphate. Silva does not shy away from placing the blame for the current state of affairs on American foreign policy (especially the invasion of Iraq in 2003) and he is equally candid in his assessment of the Obama administration’s policy failures when it came to terrorism, and their weakness in the face of the rise of ISIS. He knits those views into the plot of the novel pretty seamlessly, and at times you have to remind yourself this is fiction.
I was actually surprised (those years ago) at how decently the novel is written. Characterization is (for the most part) pretty adept and Silva’s writing is good, to the point, and his ability to plot out this novel is pretty stellar. It is sprawling in scope, and Silva handles the myriad locales with a deft hand. I read the book pretty quickly, and found myself wanting to return to it to see what came next. Although over 500 pages, it is an intense read. Pulse pounding actually. ISIS is the worst of humanity and Mr. Silva has no problem showing them for what they are, the worst of the worst.
Quotes:
• “And difficult things are almost always accomplished entirely in secret.”
• “It’s not often we are given a second chance at happiness.”
Despite the fact that the novel is a bit of a dark read, it does end with a sense of hope. The good guys will fight on. That is the stuff of movies, and hopefully of reality. Its ending however leads me to believe that Mr. Silva intends to continue another frame of the story in the next novel of the series. The story does not quite feel complete.
THE BLACK WIDOW is entertaining (and at times not pleasant) reading. The novel is unflinching in its support for fighting radical Islam, honestly says what Western Civilization is up against, and evenhanded in its assessment of Israeli policy (Silva is not a shill for Israel as some reviews have claimed).
If that is not for you, don’t read it.
THE BLACK WIDOW was the first novel of Daniel Silva’s I read. It was the 16th in his Gabriel Allon series, and I liked it so much I went back to the first book and began reading. Now I am back up to number 16 while I’m reading through the series in order. This is the one that started it all for me. Having read my way “back” to it, I clearly see why it captured me those years ago. Initially I picked this book up because I heard a TV commentator mention how prescient it was with what was going on the world today. And sadly, it is.
Although a fictional thriller, this novel opens with ISIS terror attacks in Paris that are too real for comfort and the novel is unflinching in its portrayal of radical Islam and its ultimate goal of recreating an Islamic caliphate. Silva does not shy away from placing the blame for the current state of affairs on American foreign policy (especially the invasion of Iraq in 2003) and he is equally candid in his assessment of the Obama administration’s policy failures when it came to terrorism, and their weakness in the face of the rise of ISIS. He knits those views into the plot of the novel pretty seamlessly, and at times you have to remind yourself this is fiction.
I was actually surprised (those years ago) at how decently the novel is written. Characterization is (for the most part) pretty adept and Silva’s writing is good, to the point, and his ability to plot out this novel is pretty stellar. It is sprawling in scope, and Silva handles the myriad locales with a deft hand. I read the book pretty quickly, and found myself wanting to return to it to see what came next. Although over 500 pages, it is an intense read. Pulse pounding actually. ISIS is the worst of humanity and Mr. Silva has no problem showing them for what they are, the worst of the worst.
Quotes:
• “And difficult things are almost always accomplished entirely in secret.”
• “It’s not often we are given a second chance at happiness.”
Despite the fact that the novel is a bit of a dark read, it does end with a sense of hope. The good guys will fight on. That is the stuff of movies, and hopefully of reality. Its ending however leads me to believe that Mr. Silva intends to continue another frame of the story in the next novel of the series. The story does not quite feel complete.
THE BLACK WIDOW is entertaining (and at times not pleasant) reading. The novel is unflinching in its support for fighting radical Islam, honestly says what Western Civilization is up against, and evenhanded in its assessment of Israeli policy (Silva is not a shill for Israel as some reviews have claimed).
If that is not for you, don’t read it.
July 7, 2016
Read this review and more at www.TheRealBookSpy.com
Gabriel Allon, the wayward son of Israeli intelligence, returns to star in his sixteenth novel authored by Daniel Silva. Set shortly after the events of last year’s The English Spy, Gabriel is finally nearing the day when he will forever leave behind his dangerous work in the field to instead sit behind a desk as director of Israel’s foreign intelligence service, known simply as the Office.
Gabriel, who apart from being the Office’s most legendary operative, is also one of the most skilled art restorers in the world. Equally skilled with both a paintbrush and a gun, Allon begins this book by utilizing the former skillset to bring an old piece of art back to life.
The painting, which longtime fans of the series will immediately recognize, could quite possibly be Gabriel’s final restoration. Apart from that, Allon plans to spend his last few days off with his wife and their newborn twins, Raphael, and Irene. But just days before he is set to replace Uzi Navot, the current director, an explosion rocks a Jewish neighborhood in France, pulling Gabriel back into the field for one final mission.
While this won’t be the first time Gabriel runs an operation in France, it does mark the first time that he’s doing so with their blessing. In fact, they requested his services and even strong-armed him into helping out.
A woman whom Gabriel knew (she appeared in Silva’s sixth Allon novel, The Messenger) was among those killed in the explosion. She happened to be in possession of a very rare and famous painting that is valued at more than twenty million dollars. In the event of her death, she had arranged for the painting to go to Gabriel. Knowing this, the French confiscated it from her flat and are holding it until he finishes aiding them with their investigation.
Gabriel and his team get to work and quickly learn that the man behind the attack is a terrorist mastermind who calls himself Saladin. With women all over the world, including the west, joining the ranks of ISIS, Gabriel exploits the terror group’s one weakness by inserting a recruit of his own to infiltrate Saladin’s operation.
The recruit, Natalie Mizrahi, is a French-born Israeli working as a doctor in Jerusalem. With no field experience, Gabriel must train and mold her into the unassuming, lethal weapon needed for this particular operation. In doing so, Mizrahi takes on the identity of Leila Hadawi, the daughter of Palestinian refugees and Gabriel Allon’s black widow.
(Think of ISIS as the Death Star and their recruiting tactics as the thermal exhaust port. Gabriel, then, would be Luke Skywalker, planning to expose their lone weakness. Mizrahi is the torpedo aimed to bring the whole thing down, if only it were that simple…)
If Mizrahi can get close enough to Saladin to expose him, Gabriel will end his field career by killing the terrorist before finally taking his much-anticipated promotion. However, things don’t exactly go according to plan.
Saladin, for all his ambition and ruthlessness, has managed to keep his true identity a secret. Everyone from Jordan’s GID to America’s CIA, and, of course, the Office, know him by reputation and name only. Smoking him out will not be easy, especially for a young doctor working as a newly trained, and first-time spy.
Mizrahi’s scenes are especially compelling, as the magnitude of her mission is never lost on the reader. Silva has done a tremendous job developing her character just enough to make the readers care about her, while at the same time allowing her to remain somewhat of a mystery. That balance allows for some really intense moments later on, as the story eventually takes several surprising turns.
With nonstop suspense and more than a few twists to keep readers glued to their chairs, The Black Widow is Daniel Silva’s darkest, most timely thriller to date. If this is indeed Gabriel’s last time out in the field, Silva makes sure to send him off with a bang.
Proving once again to be one of the best authors of his generation, Daniel Silva delivers a stunningly brilliant plot, with a final act that is sure to leave readers speechless!
WHY I LOVED IT
Daniel Silva Authoer picIf you’ve read Silva’s last few books, then it’s no secret that the Gabriel Allon we once knew is coming to an end. Older, but finally happy and ready to settle down with his wife, Chiara, and their children, Gabriel’s days as a field operative have long been numbered.
As a longtime fan of the series, I’m happy for Gabriel, but sad at the same time. I’m not yet ready to admit to myself that those days of him in the field are over with. However, if they are, Silva has begun setting things up for the future rather nicely.
Among the many new characters introduced in T Black Widow are two Israeli operatives that are part of Gabriel’s team. One, or both, could absolutely have their roles increased as Allon transitions to more of an in-charge figure who manages things from a distance.
Regardless of how things play out in the future, I have nothing but total trust and confidence in Daniel Silva and wherever he’s planning to take this franchise.
For what it’s worth, I think that Saladin is one of Silva’s best villains and a worthy foe for Gabriel Allon. I love the mystique around his true identity, which only adds to the overall suspense of the story.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ IT
Written with prophetic-like precision, Silva’s latest thriller is almost too real to be called fiction. As good as Gabriel Allon is with a paintbrush, Silva is even better with a pencil and legal pad, which he famously uses to write out the first drafts of his novels.
Known for beating headlines and tackling political issues before they are considered mainstream, Silva topped himself yet again when he wrote about ISIS attacking France long before the real-life attacks that took place in Brussels and Molenbeek.
Daniel Silva is the master of spy thrillers and one of the best authors on the planet. To not read his books and call yourself a fan of the genre is nearly criminal.
BOOK DETAILS
Author: Daniel Silva
Pages: 517
Publisher: Harper
Release Date: July 12, 2016 (Order now!)
Gabriel Allon, the wayward son of Israeli intelligence, returns to star in his sixteenth novel authored by Daniel Silva. Set shortly after the events of last year’s The English Spy, Gabriel is finally nearing the day when he will forever leave behind his dangerous work in the field to instead sit behind a desk as director of Israel’s foreign intelligence service, known simply as the Office.
Gabriel, who apart from being the Office’s most legendary operative, is also one of the most skilled art restorers in the world. Equally skilled with both a paintbrush and a gun, Allon begins this book by utilizing the former skillset to bring an old piece of art back to life.
The painting, which longtime fans of the series will immediately recognize, could quite possibly be Gabriel’s final restoration. Apart from that, Allon plans to spend his last few days off with his wife and their newborn twins, Raphael, and Irene. But just days before he is set to replace Uzi Navot, the current director, an explosion rocks a Jewish neighborhood in France, pulling Gabriel back into the field for one final mission.
While this won’t be the first time Gabriel runs an operation in France, it does mark the first time that he’s doing so with their blessing. In fact, they requested his services and even strong-armed him into helping out.
A woman whom Gabriel knew (she appeared in Silva’s sixth Allon novel, The Messenger) was among those killed in the explosion. She happened to be in possession of a very rare and famous painting that is valued at more than twenty million dollars. In the event of her death, she had arranged for the painting to go to Gabriel. Knowing this, the French confiscated it from her flat and are holding it until he finishes aiding them with their investigation.
Gabriel and his team get to work and quickly learn that the man behind the attack is a terrorist mastermind who calls himself Saladin. With women all over the world, including the west, joining the ranks of ISIS, Gabriel exploits the terror group’s one weakness by inserting a recruit of his own to infiltrate Saladin’s operation.
The recruit, Natalie Mizrahi, is a French-born Israeli working as a doctor in Jerusalem. With no field experience, Gabriel must train and mold her into the unassuming, lethal weapon needed for this particular operation. In doing so, Mizrahi takes on the identity of Leila Hadawi, the daughter of Palestinian refugees and Gabriel Allon’s black widow.
(Think of ISIS as the Death Star and their recruiting tactics as the thermal exhaust port. Gabriel, then, would be Luke Skywalker, planning to expose their lone weakness. Mizrahi is the torpedo aimed to bring the whole thing down, if only it were that simple…)
If Mizrahi can get close enough to Saladin to expose him, Gabriel will end his field career by killing the terrorist before finally taking his much-anticipated promotion. However, things don’t exactly go according to plan.
Saladin, for all his ambition and ruthlessness, has managed to keep his true identity a secret. Everyone from Jordan’s GID to America’s CIA, and, of course, the Office, know him by reputation and name only. Smoking him out will not be easy, especially for a young doctor working as a newly trained, and first-time spy.
Mizrahi’s scenes are especially compelling, as the magnitude of her mission is never lost on the reader. Silva has done a tremendous job developing her character just enough to make the readers care about her, while at the same time allowing her to remain somewhat of a mystery. That balance allows for some really intense moments later on, as the story eventually takes several surprising turns.
With nonstop suspense and more than a few twists to keep readers glued to their chairs, The Black Widow is Daniel Silva’s darkest, most timely thriller to date. If this is indeed Gabriel’s last time out in the field, Silva makes sure to send him off with a bang.
Proving once again to be one of the best authors of his generation, Daniel Silva delivers a stunningly brilliant plot, with a final act that is sure to leave readers speechless!
WHY I LOVED IT
Daniel Silva Authoer picIf you’ve read Silva’s last few books, then it’s no secret that the Gabriel Allon we once knew is coming to an end. Older, but finally happy and ready to settle down with his wife, Chiara, and their children, Gabriel’s days as a field operative have long been numbered.
As a longtime fan of the series, I’m happy for Gabriel, but sad at the same time. I’m not yet ready to admit to myself that those days of him in the field are over with. However, if they are, Silva has begun setting things up for the future rather nicely.
Among the many new characters introduced in T Black Widow are two Israeli operatives that are part of Gabriel’s team. One, or both, could absolutely have their roles increased as Allon transitions to more of an in-charge figure who manages things from a distance.
Regardless of how things play out in the future, I have nothing but total trust and confidence in Daniel Silva and wherever he’s planning to take this franchise.
For what it’s worth, I think that Saladin is one of Silva’s best villains and a worthy foe for Gabriel Allon. I love the mystique around his true identity, which only adds to the overall suspense of the story.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ IT
Written with prophetic-like precision, Silva’s latest thriller is almost too real to be called fiction. As good as Gabriel Allon is with a paintbrush, Silva is even better with a pencil and legal pad, which he famously uses to write out the first drafts of his novels.
Known for beating headlines and tackling political issues before they are considered mainstream, Silva topped himself yet again when he wrote about ISIS attacking France long before the real-life attacks that took place in Brussels and Molenbeek.
Daniel Silva is the master of spy thrillers and one of the best authors on the planet. To not read his books and call yourself a fan of the genre is nearly criminal.
BOOK DETAILS
Author: Daniel Silva
Pages: 517
Publisher: Harper
Release Date: July 12, 2016 (Order now!)
August 21, 2016
Wow! A classic Daniel Silva novel--the best yet. Much has been made, and rightly so, of Silva's prescience. However, like all good thriller authors who dive deeply into their characters and settings, it is possible to extrapolate a fictional but very credible future from the present as Silva has done here.
(For example, in Strike Price, the Chechen in the opening scene was written and accepted for first publication well before the Tsarnaev brothers' Boston attack.)
What I particularly liked was the way in which Silva describes the effective training/brainwashing of the central operative. Readers may wind up empathizing with both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Each page is suspenseful as we race to learn whether the operative will unconsciously betray herself or if her true identity will be uncovered.
(For example, in Strike Price, the Chechen in the opening scene was written and accepted for first publication well before the Tsarnaev brothers' Boston attack.)
What I particularly liked was the way in which Silva describes the effective training/brainwashing of the central operative. Readers may wind up empathizing with both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Each page is suspenseful as we race to learn whether the operative will unconsciously betray herself or if her true identity will be uncovered.
July 20, 2016
I love the spy parts of the Allon series, but this book is really just a vehicle to write nasty things about "the American President" and blame Obama for all the woes of the world and to espouse the divine righteousness of Israel in dealing with the Muslims/Arabs. The last few books started to get more political, but they never took away from the story or the characters. This book is almost all political statement with very little else going for it. I hope Silva gets back to writing actual spy novels. If not, this will probably be the last one for me.
July 16, 2016
Good plot and story, although the author's disdain for President Obama was distracting and tiresome.
August 27, 2020
4,5 🌟
“La viuda negra” es el Libro #16 de la Serie Gabriel Allon, y pufffff como me ha gustado! Éste ha sido un thriller más que apegado a la realidad actual, y nos muestra el mundo convulso en el que vivimos a raíz del fanatismo religioso.
El autor se encontraba escribiendo el manuscrito de este libro cuando ocurrieron los atentados perpetrados en París y Bruselas por el mismo grupo terrorista que aquí encontramos, ISIS. Y es triste, cuando como en este caso, la ficción juega una mala pasada, y salta de las páginas de un libro a hechos vividos en la vida real, y no al revés. Sin embargo, aplaudo la iniciativa del autor al mantener la línea original del libro, porque es verdaderamente adictivo.
Comienza con un atentado terrorista que te deja sin palabras, en donde inocentes son acribillados sin piedad; marcando el inicio de una investigación entre agencias de inteligencia que se traduce en infiltraciones y persecuciones que te mantienen enganchado. Con este libro (el tercero de la serie que he leído) puedo entender porque Daniel Silva es el No. 1 en este género.
Con los primeros capítulos, descubrimos un personaje que está detrás de la ejecución del atentado, una mujer intrigante, sin escrúpulos, resentida y ávida de venganza por un fallecido de esta guerra de ideologías, y es definitivamente… una viuda negra. A partir de una serie de sucesos las pistas nos conducirán a otro personaje: Saladino, quien es la mente maestra y se considera el nuevo Mesías del Estado Islámico; siendo éste el principal objetivo a detener.
A pesar de ser una novela de espionaje internacional y plantear una trama un tanto compleja, se entiende perfectamente, el autor hace énfasis en el conflicto valiéndose de los hechos históricos que han llevado a la formación de tamaño grupo terrorista, y nos hace comprender de manera sencilla de dónde proviene su fanatismo y cómo lo contagian. De seguro, a otras personas tanto como a mi me pasa, nos resulta impensable caer en tal extremo, pero los hechos nos han demostrado que efectivamente existe.
La narrativa se mantiene fiel al estilo del escritor que tanto le ha resultado, mantiene los saltos entre escenarios y personajes, siempre con buenas descripciones, ambientaciones y diálogos perfectamente balanceados dentro capítulos bastante cortos; haciendo que disfrutes de una lectura amena, ágil y súper adictiva.
Finalmente puedo concluir que podemos ver una muy buena crítica a la violencia manifestada por ISIS y a la ineficacia de los gobiernos y sus políticas de estados en función a intereses propios; en donde definitivamente el ciudadano común puede ser el más afectado.
100% recomendado.
"Los servicios de espionaje de los distintos países del mundo no cooperan entre sí porque les guste hacerlo.Cooperan entre sí, porque, al igual que las parejas divorciadas con hijos pequeños, a veces se ven en la necesidad de entenderse por el bien de todos."
“La viuda negra” es el Libro #16 de la Serie Gabriel Allon, y pufffff como me ha gustado! Éste ha sido un thriller más que apegado a la realidad actual, y nos muestra el mundo convulso en el que vivimos a raíz del fanatismo religioso.
El autor se encontraba escribiendo el manuscrito de este libro cuando ocurrieron los atentados perpetrados en París y Bruselas por el mismo grupo terrorista que aquí encontramos, ISIS. Y es triste, cuando como en este caso, la ficción juega una mala pasada, y salta de las páginas de un libro a hechos vividos en la vida real, y no al revés. Sin embargo, aplaudo la iniciativa del autor al mantener la línea original del libro, porque es verdaderamente adictivo.
Comienza con un atentado terrorista que te deja sin palabras, en donde inocentes son acribillados sin piedad; marcando el inicio de una investigación entre agencias de inteligencia que se traduce en infiltraciones y persecuciones que te mantienen enganchado. Con este libro (el tercero de la serie que he leído) puedo entender porque Daniel Silva es el No. 1 en este género.
Con los primeros capítulos, descubrimos un personaje que está detrás de la ejecución del atentado, una mujer intrigante, sin escrúpulos, resentida y ávida de venganza por un fallecido de esta guerra de ideologías, y es definitivamente… una viuda negra. A partir de una serie de sucesos las pistas nos conducirán a otro personaje: Saladino, quien es la mente maestra y se considera el nuevo Mesías del Estado Islámico; siendo éste el principal objetivo a detener.
A pesar de ser una novela de espionaje internacional y plantear una trama un tanto compleja, se entiende perfectamente, el autor hace énfasis en el conflicto valiéndose de los hechos históricos que han llevado a la formación de tamaño grupo terrorista, y nos hace comprender de manera sencilla de dónde proviene su fanatismo y cómo lo contagian. De seguro, a otras personas tanto como a mi me pasa, nos resulta impensable caer en tal extremo, pero los hechos nos han demostrado que efectivamente existe.
La narrativa se mantiene fiel al estilo del escritor que tanto le ha resultado, mantiene los saltos entre escenarios y personajes, siempre con buenas descripciones, ambientaciones y diálogos perfectamente balanceados dentro capítulos bastante cortos; haciendo que disfrutes de una lectura amena, ágil y súper adictiva.
Finalmente puedo concluir que podemos ver una muy buena crítica a la violencia manifestada por ISIS y a la ineficacia de los gobiernos y sus políticas de estados en función a intereses propios; en donde definitivamente el ciudadano común puede ser el más afectado.
100% recomendado.
"Los servicios de espionaje de los distintos países del mundo no cooperan entre sí porque les guste hacerlo.Cooperan entre sí, porque, al igual que las parejas divorciadas con hijos pequeños, a veces se ven en la necesidad de entenderse por el bien de todos."
July 5, 2020
4.5/ rounded up to 5 because...Daniel Silva
This is the novel Daniel Silva almost didn't write. When the attacks in Paris happened, he considered dropping the novel. I'm so glad he didn't. This was such a beautifully written story, rich in detail and growing menace. Placing a Jew in the line of Fire of ISIS was ingenious. I loved the references (perfectly described, IMHO) of the President at the time of the novel. Bringing ISIS was how I imagined it would happen, too. My only "complaint" is that Gabriel is more of a minor character, rather than the "doer". I'm sure it's in preparation for his new role at The Office. Still, I wish he was a little more in the forefront. Overall, a really well written and well plotted book.
This is the novel Daniel Silva almost didn't write. When the attacks in Paris happened, he considered dropping the novel. I'm so glad he didn't. This was such a beautifully written story, rich in detail and growing menace. Placing a Jew in the line of Fire of ISIS was ingenious. I loved the references (perfectly described, IMHO) of the President at the time of the novel. Bringing ISIS was how I imagined it would happen, too. My only "complaint" is that Gabriel is more of a minor character, rather than the "doer". I'm sure it's in preparation for his new role at The Office. Still, I wish he was a little more in the forefront. Overall, a really well written and well plotted book.
February 19, 2020
Uma intrincada trama sobre um espião lendário, uma organização terrorista e uma jovem que tem as habilidades certas no momento certo.
Um thriller de ficção que inicia com ataques terroristas do ISIS em Paris e prossegue retratando o Islamismo radical e o seu objetivo final de recriar um califado islâmico.
O autor, não se coibiu de opinar sobre o estado da política externa americana (especialmente a invasão do Iraque em 2003), fazendo a sua avaliação das falhas políticas do governo no que diz respeito ao terrorismo e das suas fraquezas perante a ascensão do ISIS.
Apesar de um começo algo "morno", o enredo acaba por ganhar impulso e mistério. Uma obra sobre espionagem, agências de inteligência, organizações criminosas, terroristas, mas baseada em fatos reais e, incrivelmente, premonitória.
Um thriller de ficção que inicia com ataques terroristas do ISIS em Paris e prossegue retratando o Islamismo radical e o seu objetivo final de recriar um califado islâmico.
O autor, não se coibiu de opinar sobre o estado da política externa americana (especialmente a invasão do Iraque em 2003), fazendo a sua avaliação das falhas políticas do governo no que diz respeito ao terrorismo e das suas fraquezas perante a ascensão do ISIS.
Apesar de um começo algo "morno", o enredo acaba por ganhar impulso e mistério. Uma obra sobre espionagem, agências de inteligência, organizações criminosas, terroristas, mas baseada em fatos reais e, incrivelmente, premonitória.
July 22, 2016
Not as good as previous books. I wish he would not insert his political feelings in his books.
July 17, 2022
The Black Widow continues the series by Daniel Silva about Israeli spy and assassin as well as an art restoration expert, Gabriel Allon. I have enjoyed the series because oftentimes it seems like it was ripped from the world headlines with its timeliness for the state of the world order as he is the master of international thrillers. This book was riveting as it explored the emergence of ISIS and their reign of terror. Although Gabriel Allon is slated to assume leadership of The Office, the Israeli equivalent to England's MI6 or the United States Central Intelligence Agency, he has one more mission to complete in the field, to plant an operative to penetrate the organization of the notorious and key ISIS people to determine their scope and to try to thwart and avert another attack. This is an adventure-packed narrative as we hopscotch the globe from the United States to Russia to the Middle East and ultimately back to Washington, D.C. where it comes to a stunning conclusion. This is certainly a nail-biting spy thriller.
But at the heart of these stories is Gabriel Allon, a man who has such a colorful history with the legendary Office but has sacrificed much in his personal life as a result. It is a compelling story, not only of the Jewish people as they strive to find a homeland, but of the struggle of Gabriel Allon to heal and pursue the values he holds important. All of this was brought out in a very sensitive way as he looked down at his two beautiful babies and knows that one day, they will ask him why. And his answer will be, "You exist in this place, you sleep peacefully in this land tonight, because of people like me."
But at the heart of these stories is Gabriel Allon, a man who has such a colorful history with the legendary Office but has sacrificed much in his personal life as a result. It is a compelling story, not only of the Jewish people as they strive to find a homeland, but of the struggle of Gabriel Allon to heal and pursue the values he holds important. All of this was brought out in a very sensitive way as he looked down at his two beautiful babies and knows that one day, they will ask him why. And his answer will be, "You exist in this place, you sleep peacefully in this land tonight, because of people like me."
"When finally he returned to Israel, his temples were gray from stress and exhaustion. Shamron called them smudges of ash on the prince of fire."
June 17, 2017
Can the Gabriel Allon series get any better? This may be the best book in the series to date. Daniel Silva's writing skills continue to grow. The story could be something straight out of the news headlines. Silva's prescience is uncanny.
Gabriel, new father to twins, is about to be named the Chief of The Office. Before this promotion though he will have to go back into the field for one final operation. ISIS detonates a massive bomb in a Jewish neighborhood of Paris. One of the victims was a friend and associate of Gabriel's. She was also the owner of a Van Gogh which she left to Gabriel in her will. The French though are holding the painting hostage. The price? Gabriel, the master Israeli spy and back from the dead, must head the operation to deal with those responsible. The mastermind is known only as Saladin, named for the famed warrior who united the Muslim world and captured Jerusalem from the Crusaders. Nothing is known about the modern day Saladin. Not his real name. Not even his nationality. The Paris bombing is soon followed by another deadly bombing. This time in Amsterdam. Gabriel has a plan. He will insert an agent into the most dangerous terrorist group in the world. She will become a recruit, a time bomb, a black widow. His choice for the black widow? Dr. Natalie Mizrahi, a Jewish physician who is fluent in French and Arabic. Before she can pose as a recruit for ISIS though Gabriel must recruit her to work for The Office. Can they succeed? Can they eliminate Saladin and his network before they unleash their next attack?
As I had mentioned this book almost seems to be something out of today's headlines. In addition to the bombings in Paris and Amsterdam the relationship between Israel and America is chilly thanks to the Iran nuclear deal. But in order to stop ISIS the old friendship must prevail. Israel, France, Jordan, and America all partner in this global war to stop terrorism. Some have commented negatively on the plot of recruiting a woman to infiltrate the target as having been done before but it works. This was a fast paced, page turning, stay up late to read one more chapter book. Highly recommend. I don't think fans of Gabriel Allon will be disappointed. The question is what becomes of the series when Gabriel becomes Chief?
Gabriel, new father to twins, is about to be named the Chief of The Office. Before this promotion though he will have to go back into the field for one final operation. ISIS detonates a massive bomb in a Jewish neighborhood of Paris. One of the victims was a friend and associate of Gabriel's. She was also the owner of a Van Gogh which she left to Gabriel in her will. The French though are holding the painting hostage. The price? Gabriel, the master Israeli spy and back from the dead, must head the operation to deal with those responsible. The mastermind is known only as Saladin, named for the famed warrior who united the Muslim world and captured Jerusalem from the Crusaders. Nothing is known about the modern day Saladin. Not his real name. Not even his nationality. The Paris bombing is soon followed by another deadly bombing. This time in Amsterdam. Gabriel has a plan. He will insert an agent into the most dangerous terrorist group in the world. She will become a recruit, a time bomb, a black widow. His choice for the black widow? Dr. Natalie Mizrahi, a Jewish physician who is fluent in French and Arabic. Before she can pose as a recruit for ISIS though Gabriel must recruit her to work for The Office. Can they succeed? Can they eliminate Saladin and his network before they unleash their next attack?
As I had mentioned this book almost seems to be something out of today's headlines. In addition to the bombings in Paris and Amsterdam the relationship between Israel and America is chilly thanks to the Iran nuclear deal. But in order to stop ISIS the old friendship must prevail. Israel, France, Jordan, and America all partner in this global war to stop terrorism. Some have commented negatively on the plot of recruiting a woman to infiltrate the target as having been done before but it works. This was a fast paced, page turning, stay up late to read one more chapter book. Highly recommend. I don't think fans of Gabriel Allon will be disappointed. The question is what becomes of the series when Gabriel becomes Chief?
August 5, 2016
In his foreword, Silva talks about his decision to leave his plot the same as it was prescient about all of the violence that has occurred recently by terrorists. Starting with a horrific bombing of a Jewish Center in Paris, Gabriel Allon is compelled to find the mastermind by recruiting someone fresh to penetrate ISIS. He is almost too successful as the female doctor plays a central role is the subsequent mayhem perpetrated by the mastermind (code named Saladin.) The intelligence forces of France, Jordan, Israel, and the U.S. are unable to prevent a major disaster occurring . Like his other books, this one is very hard to put down, although I found the female doctor's decision-making in consistent, which I suppose is to be expected given the enormous pressure of being undercover with a horrific death the result of being discovered. A little more Gabriel in the next one please...
July 10, 2017
Gabriel Allon is once again in top form in this timely novel! Called in to service to thwart a terrorist attack by ISIS, Allon places an agent, a would-be recruit, into the heart of the caliphate in Syria.
She is a young doctor who travels from Jerusalem to Paris and then to Syria in an attempt to learn the identity of the plot's mastermind, an elusive leader who calls himself Saladin.
This novel is tense and suspenseful, while building a sense of urgency and foreboding that will hold your interest. Although the ending is somewhat predictable, it is still a good read.
She is a young doctor who travels from Jerusalem to Paris and then to Syria in an attempt to learn the identity of the plot's mastermind, an elusive leader who calls himself Saladin.
This novel is tense and suspenseful, while building a sense of urgency and foreboding that will hold your interest. Although the ending is somewhat predictable, it is still a good read.
October 11, 2019
Another well developed spy novel that unfortunately reads very similarly to Mr. Silva’s previous book in this series, Portrait of a Spy. Both books recruit and train women to fight terrorism and both books have in depth portrayals of the characters and well developed plots. Really 3.75 stars because of the almost identical stories of his last two novels.
August 6, 2016
While discussing his new book THE BLACK WIDOW in the Music Hall in Portsmouth, NH author Daniel Silva pointed out that the Paris bombing described in his sixteenth installment of his Gabriel Allon series was a complete fabrication. In light of actual events that seem to coincide with the book’s publication, Silva seems clairvoyant, a trait that allows him to create plausible scenarios when compared to real events. In part, this characteristic is responsible for the popularity of his work, along with the development of the Gabriel Allon character over the years. In THE BLACK WIDOW, Allon is about to become the head of the “Office,” the nickname for Israeli intelligence when a bomb explodes in the Marais section of Paris, known for its Jewish population. The attack was centered on a conference organized by Hanna Weinberg, the head of the Isaac Weinberg Center for the study of Anti-Semitism in France. The jihadi attack is successful and we learn about a man who goes by the nomenclature of Saladin.
What follows is one of Silva’s best books as the author presents an accurate reality that hopefully will never visit America. Through Silva’s characters the reader is exposed to an accurate history of the Islamic State or ISIS and the background presented affords the reader the expertise that Silva has tapped in preparing his novel. Many names will be familiar to Silva’s audience as they were developed in previous Allon books. However, a new person emerges as one of the most important that Silva has ever created. Her name is Natalie Mizrahi, a physician who immigrated to Israel because of the treatment of Jews in France, a subject that Silva treats as he argues that Islamic terror is a serious problem for Jews in France, and that the French government has been very laissez faire in dealing with it. Dr. Mizrahi is recruited by Allon and trained to penetrate ISIS and gather intelligence concerning Saladin’s plans. Saladin is a former officer and intelligence operator in the Saddam Hussein’s Iraq. Once the United States invaded Iraq and defeated Saddam’s forces Washington pursued the mistaken policy of “debathization.” Because of this error hundreds of Saddam’s Sunni officer core had nowhere to turn. Saladin, like many others joined al-Qaeda in Iraq under Abu Musab al-Zarqawi which eventually morphed into ISIS.
Throughout the novel Silva makes many astute judgements that currently affect the war on terror. For example, the Brussels’ neighborhood of Molenbeek is presented as an ISIS oasis in the middle of the Belgian capitol. Silva critiques President Obama’s Middle East policy (without mentioning his name) and statements concerning ISIS that he totally disagreed with. The state of French-Israeli relations, the bureaucratic battles within the Israeli intelligence community are delved into, as is the sour relationship between Washington and Tel Aviv. It is obvious that Silva has done a great deal of research in preparing his novel. As I was reading the dialogue I had the feeling that I was reading from the works of Scott Shane, Michael Weiss, and Joby Warrick who have written extensively on ISIS and the war on terror, and lo and behold when I read Silva’s acknowledgements he cited these excellent journalist/historians.
What is fascinating about Silva’s approach is how realistic and believable his scenarios and characters are. His description of turning Dr. Mizrahi into the Israeli agent Leila Hawadi is eye opening. Further, the Mizrahi/Hawadi character’s indoctrination by ISIS is very disturbing as she witnesses the caliphate up close and what their raison detre is, as well as the actions they are planning. Silva takes the reader on a thrilling voyage that I fear someday might come to pass. If you are a fan of Silva’s previous efforts, you should find THE BLACK WIDOW a very satisfying read.
What follows is one of Silva’s best books as the author presents an accurate reality that hopefully will never visit America. Through Silva’s characters the reader is exposed to an accurate history of the Islamic State or ISIS and the background presented affords the reader the expertise that Silva has tapped in preparing his novel. Many names will be familiar to Silva’s audience as they were developed in previous Allon books. However, a new person emerges as one of the most important that Silva has ever created. Her name is Natalie Mizrahi, a physician who immigrated to Israel because of the treatment of Jews in France, a subject that Silva treats as he argues that Islamic terror is a serious problem for Jews in France, and that the French government has been very laissez faire in dealing with it. Dr. Mizrahi is recruited by Allon and trained to penetrate ISIS and gather intelligence concerning Saladin’s plans. Saladin is a former officer and intelligence operator in the Saddam Hussein’s Iraq. Once the United States invaded Iraq and defeated Saddam’s forces Washington pursued the mistaken policy of “debathization.” Because of this error hundreds of Saddam’s Sunni officer core had nowhere to turn. Saladin, like many others joined al-Qaeda in Iraq under Abu Musab al-Zarqawi which eventually morphed into ISIS.
Throughout the novel Silva makes many astute judgements that currently affect the war on terror. For example, the Brussels’ neighborhood of Molenbeek is presented as an ISIS oasis in the middle of the Belgian capitol. Silva critiques President Obama’s Middle East policy (without mentioning his name) and statements concerning ISIS that he totally disagreed with. The state of French-Israeli relations, the bureaucratic battles within the Israeli intelligence community are delved into, as is the sour relationship between Washington and Tel Aviv. It is obvious that Silva has done a great deal of research in preparing his novel. As I was reading the dialogue I had the feeling that I was reading from the works of Scott Shane, Michael Weiss, and Joby Warrick who have written extensively on ISIS and the war on terror, and lo and behold when I read Silva’s acknowledgements he cited these excellent journalist/historians.
What is fascinating about Silva’s approach is how realistic and believable his scenarios and characters are. His description of turning Dr. Mizrahi into the Israeli agent Leila Hawadi is eye opening. Further, the Mizrahi/Hawadi character’s indoctrination by ISIS is very disturbing as she witnesses the caliphate up close and what their raison detre is, as well as the actions they are planning. Silva takes the reader on a thrilling voyage that I fear someday might come to pass. If you are a fan of Silva’s previous efforts, you should find THE BLACK WIDOW a very satisfying read.
September 18, 2024
I believe I'm mentioned in reviews or status updates of Silva's writing how his narratives have an 'addictive' nature rather than 'page turner'. That said, as plots deepen, momentum builds like all great mystery authors.
On the eve before Gabriel Allon is to become Director of Israeli intelligence, he's summoned by Paul Rousseau, French Intelligence due to a series of terrorist bombings and the murder of Hanna Weinberg, founder of the Weinberg Center. It doesn't take long for them to uncover an ISIS plot and the man called "Saladin" as its chief. The terrorist network is sophisticated, its technology impossible to penetrate. Allon realizes the only way to uncover Saladin's identity is to recruit a 'black widow'.
Research determines that Dr. Natalie Mizrahi, formerly of Marseilles, and lately of Rehavia near Jerusalem was temperamentally, intellectually and politically suited for the job and as luck would have it, stunning. Close with her parents and aggravated by jihadists, the interview with Allon was a roller coaster until he hit a hot button which was right out of"Mission Impossible".
These were the the post-911 days where Mideast terrorism was a hot spot. Its here we see the depth of Silva's research where details of the use of 'caliphates', networking and finance come to light and all of them scary as heck. When Natalie agrees to change identity to Leila Hadawi and is trained to be an Israeli intelligence asset, we are immersed in the unknown process as she travels to Greece, Brussels and a small Mideast island where Saladin's HQ is located.
This complex often frightening story illuminates the reckless, devil-like terrorist culture and worsens when we learn Saladin's use of Natalie will send her to the US along side the woman who murdered Hannah Weinberg. When the US attack begins, it was so terrifying I nearly quit, but continued since I was eager to learn how Silva would resolve Natalie's role.
As with all the other Allon books, the reader is immersed, educated and in this case, frightened. But this is the nature of ruthless terrorists whose goals are to frighten, murder and wreak havoc. I felt the finale was less climactic than it might have been, hence the 4 star rating. Regardless, there's little doubt that Silva is a master storyteller so I recommend those who enjoy mystery add it!
On the eve before Gabriel Allon is to become Director of Israeli intelligence, he's summoned by Paul Rousseau, French Intelligence due to a series of terrorist bombings and the murder of Hanna Weinberg, founder of the Weinberg Center. It doesn't take long for them to uncover an ISIS plot and the man called "Saladin" as its chief. The terrorist network is sophisticated, its technology impossible to penetrate. Allon realizes the only way to uncover Saladin's identity is to recruit a 'black widow'.
Research determines that Dr. Natalie Mizrahi, formerly of Marseilles, and lately of Rehavia near Jerusalem was temperamentally, intellectually and politically suited for the job and as luck would have it, stunning. Close with her parents and aggravated by jihadists, the interview with Allon was a roller coaster until he hit a hot button which was right out of"Mission Impossible".
These were the the post-911 days where Mideast terrorism was a hot spot. Its here we see the depth of Silva's research where details of the use of 'caliphates', networking and finance come to light and all of them scary as heck. When Natalie agrees to change identity to Leila Hadawi and is trained to be an Israeli intelligence asset, we are immersed in the unknown process as she travels to Greece, Brussels and a small Mideast island where Saladin's HQ is located.
This complex often frightening story illuminates the reckless, devil-like terrorist culture and worsens when we learn Saladin's use of Natalie will send her to the US along side the woman who murdered Hannah Weinberg. When the US attack begins, it was so terrifying I nearly quit, but continued since I was eager to learn how Silva would resolve Natalie's role.
As with all the other Allon books, the reader is immersed, educated and in this case, frightened. But this is the nature of ruthless terrorists whose goals are to frighten, murder and wreak havoc. I felt the finale was less climactic than it might have been, hence the 4 star rating. Regardless, there's little doubt that Silva is a master storyteller so I recommend those who enjoy mystery add it!
July 22, 2016
It's hard to believe this is the 16th book in the series featuring Gabriel Allon, perhaps my all-time favorite "hero." He's a sought-after restorer of priceless paintings, a spy, soon-to-be chief of Israel's secret intelligence service (albeit reluctantly) and, with his beautiful wife Chiara, the father of twins Raphael and Irene. So much do I love the books that I didn't even break a sweat at the thought of 544 pages - much longer than most books I read these days - and once I started, I admit to getting testy when something or someone interrupted my progress. By the end of the first few chapters, I knew this would be a 5-star-plus read for me.
That doesn't mean, however, that a few things weren't a bit bothersome - the first of which is that the emphasis is far more on politics and history than on the characters. Chiara barely plays a role, and even Gabriel doesn't seem to be at the forefront as much as in previous books. There is almost tedious detail about the relationships (pro and con) among various countries like Israel, France and Syria, and the author makes it abundantly clear what side of the political fence he's on. That's not all bad, mind you; even though I've crabbed about other authors' crossing the line of putting their personal political agendas ahead of the story - and this one comes close to doing just that - Silva manages to write around it all in such an interesting, totally engaging way that in the end it didn't matter a whit to me (the historical parts, in fact, I thoroughly enjoyed).
As the book begins, Gabriel hasn't yet assumed the mantle of intelligence chief; in fact, he's officially dead (not really, of course, but for all intents and purposes beyond the Israeli agency, he was killed off a while back). Just as he's about to be resurrected to take on his new responsibilities, ISIS sets off a bomb in Paris. With so many dead and wounded and the entire country in shock, the French government seeks help from Gabriel and his agency in finding out who was behind the dirty deed.
It's an offer Gabriel can't refuse, and he sets off on what could be his final mission before "retiring" behind a desk (assuming he survives, of course). Early on, he recruits and trains a multi-national Jewish female doctor named Natalie who will infiltrate the ranks of ISIS in the hope of getting close enough to the caliphate to learn what the next target(s) will be. In fact, the book is more her story than Gabriel's; she is to be transformed into a Muslim "Black Widow," - a woman who lost a husband at the hands of non-Muslim terrorism and wants nothing more than revenge (and the glory that will come when she dies as a martyr).
The story follows all that happens to her as well as the interaction among the government agencies that are involved. In between are chases that lead to blind alleys, shady characters doing their thing and horrific strikes, and threats of even more strikes, by ISIS terrorists. Can Gabriel and his team (with the help of the good doctor) bring whoever is running the ISIS show to his knees in time to prevent an even more horrendous disaster? I know the answer, and if you read this terrific book, so will you.
That doesn't mean, however, that a few things weren't a bit bothersome - the first of which is that the emphasis is far more on politics and history than on the characters. Chiara barely plays a role, and even Gabriel doesn't seem to be at the forefront as much as in previous books. There is almost tedious detail about the relationships (pro and con) among various countries like Israel, France and Syria, and the author makes it abundantly clear what side of the political fence he's on. That's not all bad, mind you; even though I've crabbed about other authors' crossing the line of putting their personal political agendas ahead of the story - and this one comes close to doing just that - Silva manages to write around it all in such an interesting, totally engaging way that in the end it didn't matter a whit to me (the historical parts, in fact, I thoroughly enjoyed).
As the book begins, Gabriel hasn't yet assumed the mantle of intelligence chief; in fact, he's officially dead (not really, of course, but for all intents and purposes beyond the Israeli agency, he was killed off a while back). Just as he's about to be resurrected to take on his new responsibilities, ISIS sets off a bomb in Paris. With so many dead and wounded and the entire country in shock, the French government seeks help from Gabriel and his agency in finding out who was behind the dirty deed.
It's an offer Gabriel can't refuse, and he sets off on what could be his final mission before "retiring" behind a desk (assuming he survives, of course). Early on, he recruits and trains a multi-national Jewish female doctor named Natalie who will infiltrate the ranks of ISIS in the hope of getting close enough to the caliphate to learn what the next target(s) will be. In fact, the book is more her story than Gabriel's; she is to be transformed into a Muslim "Black Widow," - a woman who lost a husband at the hands of non-Muslim terrorism and wants nothing more than revenge (and the glory that will come when she dies as a martyr).
The story follows all that happens to her as well as the interaction among the government agencies that are involved. In between are chases that lead to blind alleys, shady characters doing their thing and horrific strikes, and threats of even more strikes, by ISIS terrorists. Can Gabriel and his team (with the help of the good doctor) bring whoever is running the ISIS show to his knees in time to prevent an even more horrendous disaster? I know the answer, and if you read this terrific book, so will you.
April 26, 2017
Always enjoy the Gabriel Allon cast of characters. This installment is not bloated as some of the earlier in the series became. Although somewhat predictable, immersing yourself in this world for a period is like visiting friends, comfortable and entertaining. Always love the history lessons built in, along with the scary level of premonition found in these books.
March 28, 2017
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This is a story that flows naturally, with an easy reading due to its small chapters and I must say it was my first reading of this highly successful author, but this book is the 16th in a series entitled "Gabriel Allon" and although Read very well as an independent reading, because the author knows how to contextualize everything, the truth is that I believe that there may be details and even relations with some characters that we would understand better if we had followed the series.
There is a mystery that is not revealed at the end of this book and that left me wondering if it would not be a character that has appeared in the other books, because he knows Gabriel Allon, it's about the identity of the "Saladin"? The leader of the terrorist who seems to have had a past in espionage, but that left us with several questions that makes us want to wait for the next book to see if this mystery is unraveled.
And don't think this book deals only with somber things, there is a hint of romance between the doctor and a spy, which although it isn't at all a focus, can relieve some pressure.
Another interesting point at the end of the book the author gives us a brief explanation about several facts that he wrote in his book and some bridges connecting with previous books. It is a book that goes to the detail of everything, these details enrich this story.
I wasn't expecting to like it, at first it was difficult to get into the story, but then when we got into Natalie's skin, we started living in a disturbing, scary world of imminent danger and sometimes we have to take a deep breath before reading it again. Although it isn't my favorite literary genre, I can't say that "The Black Widow" is a book that passes me by, it's a very well written story and very well done, all the fiction generated we believe as if it were a truth absolute and I felt completely involved in this espionage world of Gabriel Allon.
This is a story that flows naturally, with an easy reading due to its small chapters and I must say it was my first reading of this highly successful author, but this book is the 16th in a series entitled "Gabriel Allon" and although Read very well as an independent reading, because the author knows how to contextualize everything, the truth is that I believe that there may be details and even relations with some characters that we would understand better if we had followed the series.
There is a mystery that is not revealed at the end of this book and that left me wondering if it would not be a character that has appeared in the other books, because he knows Gabriel Allon, it's about the identity of the "Saladin"? The leader of the terrorist who seems to have had a past in espionage, but that left us with several questions that makes us want to wait for the next book to see if this mystery is unraveled.
And don't think this book deals only with somber things, there is a hint of romance between the doctor and a spy, which although it isn't at all a focus, can relieve some pressure.
Another interesting point at the end of the book the author gives us a brief explanation about several facts that he wrote in his book and some bridges connecting with previous books. It is a book that goes to the detail of everything, these details enrich this story.
I wasn't expecting to like it, at first it was difficult to get into the story, but then when we got into Natalie's skin, we started living in a disturbing, scary world of imminent danger and sometimes we have to take a deep breath before reading it again. Although it isn't my favorite literary genre, I can't say that "The Black Widow" is a book that passes me by, it's a very well written story and very well done, all the fiction generated we believe as if it were a truth absolute and I felt completely involved in this espionage world of Gabriel Allon.
July 29, 2016
I am a big fan of Silva, so it pains me to give this book a 2-star rating. Normally, I would never give 2 stars because I don't finish books that warrant that rating. But I did finish this because I have read everyone of his other books and I really like the Allon character and Silva's writing. Like his other books, this one was well-written and fast-paced. I have 4 problems with it, which are a little hard to describe without spoilers, but I'll try. (1) In this book Allon almost felt like a secondary character. There actually were significant parts of the book where he was only present via remote monitoring of someone else. (2) The book seemed to suggest that it is ok to have mass destruction and loss of life as long as the main hero or heroine is saved. Not to me. (3) Silva took the opportunity to get in a couple jabs at America and its role in propagating an environment ripe for ISIS. This may or may not be true, but either way, it's a political statement that would best be left out of a fiction book. (4) It doesn't make sense that Allon continues the march to Office leadership. I don't know where this all is going, but I don't want him in that role--field work is his strength and all the characteristics described in previous books suggest administrative work is not his thing. All this being said, I will read his next book and hope that he doesn't try so hard to fictionalize a real-life current conflict.
July 13, 2016
I absolutely love the Gabriel Allon series, but I'm afraid this latest is a disappointment.
I love the reoccurring characters, but after 16 episodes they are starting to wear a little thin. Especially since the author feels the need to explain them in every book, using essentially the same boilerplate. It is starting to get cheesy.
I suppose its hard to come up with a story that is truly original, but seriously you might as well just re-read le Carré's Little Drummer Girl.
Unfortunately one cannot escape an early conclusion that the infiltration will ultimately fail, and once that sets in the story becomes annoying.
The annoyance is exacerbated by the ongoing gratuitous depiction of America as fat, stupid, incompetent, and vulnerable. I appreciate that some artistic license is necessary to make a good story, but the story could have been written, and the plot would have worked a lot better, without the nonsensical idea of the entire NCTC being taken out by a truck bomb.
I love the reoccurring characters, but after 16 episodes they are starting to wear a little thin. Especially since the author feels the need to explain them in every book, using essentially the same boilerplate. It is starting to get cheesy.
I suppose its hard to come up with a story that is truly original, but seriously you might as well just re-read le Carré's Little Drummer Girl.
Unfortunately one cannot escape an early conclusion that the infiltration will ultimately fail, and once that sets in the story becomes annoying.
The annoyance is exacerbated by the ongoing gratuitous depiction of America as fat, stupid, incompetent, and vulnerable. I appreciate that some artistic license is necessary to make a good story, but the story could have been written, and the plot would have worked a lot better, without the nonsensical idea of the entire NCTC being taken out by a truck bomb.
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