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Assault on Saint Agnes
"When terrorists assault Saint Agnes Church in Saint Paul, Minnesota, they expect to find a congregation of lambs: they get Bobby Kurtz instead. An unrepentant Cold Warrior, Kurtz destroys the terror cell with violent finality.
Against his will, Kurtz is pulled back into the life he left behind decades before. He reluctantly picks up the burden of hunting the terrorists in our midst. He risks his life, and his marriage, in a single-minded pursuit of victory over evil.
Working with a shadowy government agency, Kurtz uses all of his skills and experience to foil a plan that would plunge the Twin Cities back into the Stone Age. The final battle rages across the plains during a Christmas Eve blizzard in a story that will leave the reader pleading for more of Kurtz and his team of experts."
Against his will, Kurtz is pulled back into the life he left behind decades before. He reluctantly picks up the burden of hunting the terrorists in our midst. He risks his life, and his marriage, in a single-minded pursuit of victory over evil.
Working with a shadowy government agency, Kurtz uses all of his skills and experience to foil a plan that would plunge the Twin Cities back into the Stone Age. The final battle rages across the plains during a Christmas Eve blizzard in a story that will leave the reader pleading for more of Kurtz and his team of experts."
248 pages, Paperback
Published April 18, 2016
6 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Courtemanche
9 books29 followersJoseph Courtemanche is a former Police Officer and Middle East/North Africa analyst. He is a distinguished veteran of the Naval Security Group of the United States Navy, and an Arabic linguist with training at the University of Minnesota and the Defense Language Institute (Honors Graduate).
Joseph holds several military awards, including two flag letters of commendation for his work in providing real-time intelligence support to commanders in the field. His experience provides the background that’s crucial to his writing in the thriller genre. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and holds degrees from two other colleges as well.
As a performer, he's appeared on television in a variety of commercials, and does voice over work for both radio and television. He delights in doing his own audio books.
His greatest joy is working as a professional Santa for the last fifteen years, appearing in a number of television spots as the Jolly Old Elf.
He lives in Saint Paul, Minnesota with his wife and dog. Both of whom tolerate him fairly well.
Joseph holds several military awards, including two flag letters of commendation for his work in providing real-time intelligence support to commanders in the field. His experience provides the background that’s crucial to his writing in the thriller genre. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and holds degrees from two other colleges as well.
As a performer, he's appeared on television in a variety of commercials, and does voice over work for both radio and television. He delights in doing his own audio books.
His greatest joy is working as a professional Santa for the last fifteen years, appearing in a number of television spots as the Jolly Old Elf.
He lives in Saint Paul, Minnesota with his wife and dog. Both of whom tolerate him fairly well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 2, 2016
I was asked by the author to review this novel before its release date and was provided a free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this story. For a debut author, Courtemanche writes well and has a solidly constructed novel. I should not be surprised as the author lists his writing background and "training" in his bio,
Assault on Saint Agnes is the recipient of the Genesis Award for best-unpublished work in 2015. That was awarded by the American Christian Fiction Writers. Assault on Saint Agnes has also finished second in the Athanatos Ministries Christian Novel Contest, and was a finalist in Operation First Novel. All three contests are highly regarded in the industry.
Quite an impressive writing resume! This novel is not overly as fast paced as novels of similar genre, but the pace is fast enough to keep you coming back for more. This author definitely knows his subject matter and the novel is built upon the experience the author's career, as described by himself,
.......former Police Officer and Middle East/North Africa analyst....a distinguished veteran of the Naval Security Group of the United States Navy, and an Arabic Linguist with training at the University of Minnesota and the Defense Language Institute (Honors Graduate) .......holds several military awards, including two flag letters of commendation for his work in providing real-time intelligence support to commanders in the field. His experience provides the background that’s crucial to his writing in the thriller genre. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and holds degrees from two other colleges as well.
Seeing this novel revolves around Bobby Kurtz, it pays that Courtemanche has depicted him very relatable and one who the reader becomes endeared to. Somehow, I feel that Bobby is based somewhat on the author seeing that this main protagonist is depicted in an environment based on the author's past career. I can see nothing wrong with this and it definitely adds depth, and character to this "character"!
Courtemanche also portrays well the interpersonal relationships between Bobby's fellow agents and the hierarchy of this organization including their procedures and protocols. Again his past experience shines here and adds to the realistic feel of this novel including any action, suspense and intrigue. It sure does draw you in! This author really shines in creating the special ops plot and genre and he translates this past experience and expertise brilliantly.
Courtemanche's research also extends to the terrorist plot line including the Muslim ideology and mindset for revenge, death, and destruction as part of following the Koran and its directives towards the American infidels. This is depicted well and shows the hatred towards the American people. I have read enough of these types of novels to know that how Courtemanche has depicted this is close to reality.
I am not a great fan of the romance genre either secular or Christian based, but when romance is included as part of the plot or a subplot, I do enjoy it, especially when it is written by a male author and a Christian one at that. I loved the romance created by Courtemanche between Bobby and his wife Grace, it shines of what Christian married love should be and needs to be. I look forward to more romance from this author as I feel he does this well and shows great potential for developing this further in future novels.
This is one very clean read, no sex or sexual innuendo, swearing, but there is violence and I feel in a novel like this you cannot get away with leaving this out, this is the reality of this type of plot as it does reflect real life. There are themes of redemption, sacrifice and relying on God but I would have preferred these to have been more obvious and developed as to their Christian/biblical source and the main character showing more of his faith in the events of this novel. There is great opportunity for the Christian worldview to be expressed in more detail here and it would have enhanced this novel better and taken it away from it being viewed as a clean read. As it is, it does not stand out as obvious Christian fiction until you get to the end of the novel.
Here, what I am talking about is evident and very obvious in this scene that is very Christian/biblical orientated and presents the Gospel beautifully, and Courtemanche's love of his God shines through here. It shows the power of the Cross in changing a heart of hate and evil indoctrination towards God and the power of His might and Spirit to bring him into a right relationship with God, taking him from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of Light. Very powerful and I don't see this as preachy or as bible bashing the reader. It fits in very well with the plot.
This scene ends this novel really well and I can see the potential for Courtemanche to include more of these redemptive and spirit filled elements throughout the plot of his future novels. I feel that Christian fiction needs to stand out as such without bible bashing, preaching and turning readers away from the Gospel but rather pointing them towards this Gospel and its author. I can see that Courtemanche has great potential to do this in future novels.
I am very much looking forward to future novels from this very promising and talented author.
Strongly Recommended
World building 4/5
Characters 4/5
Story 4/5
Spiritual level 3/5
Spiritual Enemy Level N/A
Average Rating: 4/5
I really enjoyed this story. For a debut author, Courtemanche writes well and has a solidly constructed novel. I should not be surprised as the author lists his writing background and "training" in his bio,
Assault on Saint Agnes is the recipient of the Genesis Award for best-unpublished work in 2015. That was awarded by the American Christian Fiction Writers. Assault on Saint Agnes has also finished second in the Athanatos Ministries Christian Novel Contest, and was a finalist in Operation First Novel. All three contests are highly regarded in the industry.
Quite an impressive writing resume! This novel is not overly as fast paced as novels of similar genre, but the pace is fast enough to keep you coming back for more. This author definitely knows his subject matter and the novel is built upon the experience the author's career, as described by himself,
.......former Police Officer and Middle East/North Africa analyst....a distinguished veteran of the Naval Security Group of the United States Navy, and an Arabic Linguist with training at the University of Minnesota and the Defense Language Institute (Honors Graduate) .......holds several military awards, including two flag letters of commendation for his work in providing real-time intelligence support to commanders in the field. His experience provides the background that’s crucial to his writing in the thriller genre. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and holds degrees from two other colleges as well.
Seeing this novel revolves around Bobby Kurtz, it pays that Courtemanche has depicted him very relatable and one who the reader becomes endeared to. Somehow, I feel that Bobby is based somewhat on the author seeing that this main protagonist is depicted in an environment based on the author's past career. I can see nothing wrong with this and it definitely adds depth, and character to this "character"!
Courtemanche also portrays well the interpersonal relationships between Bobby's fellow agents and the hierarchy of this organization including their procedures and protocols. Again his past experience shines here and adds to the realistic feel of this novel including any action, suspense and intrigue. It sure does draw you in! This author really shines in creating the special ops plot and genre and he translates this past experience and expertise brilliantly.
Courtemanche's research also extends to the terrorist plot line including the Muslim ideology and mindset for revenge, death, and destruction as part of following the Koran and its directives towards the American infidels. This is depicted well and shows the hatred towards the American people. I have read enough of these types of novels to know that how Courtemanche has depicted this is close to reality.
I am not a great fan of the romance genre either secular or Christian based, but when romance is included as part of the plot or a subplot, I do enjoy it, especially when it is written by a male author and a Christian one at that. I loved the romance created by Courtemanche between Bobby and his wife Grace, it shines of what Christian married love should be and needs to be. I look forward to more romance from this author as I feel he does this well and shows great potential for developing this further in future novels.
This is one very clean read, no sex or sexual innuendo, swearing, but there is violence and I feel in a novel like this you cannot get away with leaving this out, this is the reality of this type of plot as it does reflect real life. There are themes of redemption, sacrifice and relying on God but I would have preferred these to have been more obvious and developed as to their Christian/biblical source and the main character showing more of his faith in the events of this novel. There is great opportunity for the Christian worldview to be expressed in more detail here and it would have enhanced this novel better and taken it away from it being viewed as a clean read. As it is, it does not stand out as obvious Christian fiction until you get to the end of the novel.
Here, what I am talking about is evident and very obvious in this scene that is very Christian/biblical orientated and presents the Gospel beautifully, and Courtemanche's love of his God shines through here. It shows the power of the Cross in changing a heart of hate and evil indoctrination towards God and the power of His might and Spirit to bring him into a right relationship with God, taking him from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of Light. Very powerful and I don't see this as preachy or as bible bashing the reader. It fits in very well with the plot.
This scene ends this novel really well and I can see the potential for Courtemanche to include more of these redemptive and spirit filled elements throughout the plot of his future novels. I feel that Christian fiction needs to stand out as such without bible bashing, preaching and turning readers away from the Gospel but rather pointing them towards this Gospel and its author. I can see that Courtemanche has great potential to do this in future novels.
I am very much looking forward to future novels from this very promising and talented author.
Strongly Recommended
World building 4/5
Characters 4/5
Story 4/5
Spiritual level 3/5
Spiritual Enemy Level N/A
Average Rating: 4/5
October 6, 2025
Fast-paced, techno-thriller featuring a one of a kind protagonist uncovering a nightmarish terrorist plot on US soil
I received an advanced, complimentary copy, of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Don't let the title fool you, Assault on St. Agnes is not the story of a WWII battle at a rural French cathedral. It's an award-winning debut suspense-techno-thriller novel by Joe Courtemanche, a former police officer, Navy cryptologist, and counter-terror specialist. Assault on St. Agnes is about a Cold War-era Navy counter-terrorism veteran named Bobby Kurtz who is forced back into service to confront a terrorist cell in his own back yard. As the novel opens, Kurtz is living in low-key retirement in the St. Paul-Minneapolis area. He just happens to be visiting a church service at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church when it is attacked by terrorists. During the course of the attack, Kurtz's old training kicks in. He manages to kill all of the terrorists with his concealed carry handgun before being stunned into unconsciousness by a timed bomb blast. Kurtz awakes to find himself arrested by Homeland Security and tagged as a suspect instead of a hero. Local law enforcement and the FBI are convinced he must have had insider information to thwart the attack. Colene Abbott, the local director of a covert Homeland Security counter-terrorism organization, steps in to take control of Kurtz's fate. She knows his background as an Arab linguist and counter-terrorism expert. She also recognizes he is a local character who seems to know almost everyone and anything about the St. Paul-Minneapolis Metro area. Recognizing his potential as an intelligence asset, Abbott offers Kurtz a deal -- face the FBI charges and expect to spend the next ten years in a Federal prison. Or sign-up to join her special unit, an open-ended commitment until the entire terror network in the area is broken. Kurtz signs on and the story takes off from there. What follows is an unusually intense introduction to the world of communications intelligence and counter-intelligence melded with a classic law enforcement criminal conspiracy investigation. The pace of the novel quickens as the team's investigation draws closer to its inevitable conclusion. Throughout the telling, the scenes go back and forth between Kurtz's team of operators and the Islamo-terror cell led by a man named Hassan (code name: High Voltage). This well-developed plot device gives the reader insight into how the Islamist extremist mind operates. It's really well done. Courtemanche is, after all, an Arabist and counter-terrorism veteran himself. And his storytelling is superb. I won't spoil the ending for readers out there. Suffice to say, this novel ends with a bang. Courtemanche has hit it out of the park with his debut thriller. It's already won several awards from Christian fiction organizations. But don't let the "Christian" label scare you. This is high-end techno-thriller stuff, the characters are edgy and realistic, and the story is neither sappy nor predictable. If there are any Amish-Romance-Suspense love triangles lurking in the background, I am sure they disintegrated in the first explosive blast in the sanctuary of St. Agnes. Nothing preachy, in your face or over-baked about this -- this is muscular Christianity, after all, with a hero who just happens to be a man of faith. Assault on St. Agnes is highly recommended.
I received an advanced, complimentary copy, of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Don't let the title fool you, Assault on St. Agnes is not the story of a WWII battle at a rural French cathedral. It's an award-winning debut suspense-techno-thriller novel by Joe Courtemanche, a former police officer, Navy cryptologist, and counter-terror specialist. Assault on St. Agnes is about a Cold War-era Navy counter-terrorism veteran named Bobby Kurtz who is forced back into service to confront a terrorist cell in his own back yard. As the novel opens, Kurtz is living in low-key retirement in the St. Paul-Minneapolis area. He just happens to be visiting a church service at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church when it is attacked by terrorists. During the course of the attack, Kurtz's old training kicks in. He manages to kill all of the terrorists with his concealed carry handgun before being stunned into unconsciousness by a timed bomb blast. Kurtz awakes to find himself arrested by Homeland Security and tagged as a suspect instead of a hero. Local law enforcement and the FBI are convinced he must have had insider information to thwart the attack. Colene Abbott, the local director of a covert Homeland Security counter-terrorism organization, steps in to take control of Kurtz's fate. She knows his background as an Arab linguist and counter-terrorism expert. She also recognizes he is a local character who seems to know almost everyone and anything about the St. Paul-Minneapolis Metro area. Recognizing his potential as an intelligence asset, Abbott offers Kurtz a deal -- face the FBI charges and expect to spend the next ten years in a Federal prison. Or sign-up to join her special unit, an open-ended commitment until the entire terror network in the area is broken. Kurtz signs on and the story takes off from there. What follows is an unusually intense introduction to the world of communications intelligence and counter-intelligence melded with a classic law enforcement criminal conspiracy investigation. The pace of the novel quickens as the team's investigation draws closer to its inevitable conclusion. Throughout the telling, the scenes go back and forth between Kurtz's team of operators and the Islamo-terror cell led by a man named Hassan (code name: High Voltage). This well-developed plot device gives the reader insight into how the Islamist extremist mind operates. It's really well done. Courtemanche is, after all, an Arabist and counter-terrorism veteran himself. And his storytelling is superb. I won't spoil the ending for readers out there. Suffice to say, this novel ends with a bang. Courtemanche has hit it out of the park with his debut thriller. It's already won several awards from Christian fiction organizations. But don't let the "Christian" label scare you. This is high-end techno-thriller stuff, the characters are edgy and realistic, and the story is neither sappy nor predictable. If there are any Amish-Romance-Suspense love triangles lurking in the background, I am sure they disintegrated in the first explosive blast in the sanctuary of St. Agnes. Nothing preachy, in your face or over-baked about this -- this is muscular Christianity, after all, with a hero who just happens to be a man of faith. Assault on St. Agnes is highly recommended.
June 7, 2017
Exciting, well-written thriller! Scary that this is exactly what could happen today, should put some fear into our hearts that terrorist attacks like this are all too real possibilities. Really enjoyed the main character Bobby, he's smart with a wry sense of humor and a realistic outlook about life.
April 21, 2016
I met Joseph Courtemanche a few years ago at an American Christian Fiction Writers conference. I gotta tell you, for a guy who looks like a sweet Santa Clause, this guy can write some tough stuff. The tension is cold enough to freeze your gizzard, and the action will leave you staggering. Way to go, Joe!
Bobby Kurtz is a 50-something, overweight former cryptologic linguist with an impressive aim and a lot of guns. He's in the church he grew up in when terrorists decide to make a point. Instead, Bobby nails them. All six of them. Plus minimizes the impact of suicide pack by shoving it under some heavy pews, singlehandedly saving the entire congregation, all but one older man who sacrificed his own life to save others.
With his heavy dark beard, Bobby is at first assumed by the SWAT team to be one of the terrorists. When it begins to become obvious he's not one of them, he's instead recruited by an obscure division of the Homeland Security. Not much choice--to prison as a terrorist or work with folks who want to turn him into a 20-year-old terrorist-hunting seal.
No, I won't tell you how it turns out, other than there are a lot of nail-biting flash-banging pages. Go buy it from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
I received a free advanced reader's copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Bobby Kurtz is a 50-something, overweight former cryptologic linguist with an impressive aim and a lot of guns. He's in the church he grew up in when terrorists decide to make a point. Instead, Bobby nails them. All six of them. Plus minimizes the impact of suicide pack by shoving it under some heavy pews, singlehandedly saving the entire congregation, all but one older man who sacrificed his own life to save others.
With his heavy dark beard, Bobby is at first assumed by the SWAT team to be one of the terrorists. When it begins to become obvious he's not one of them, he's instead recruited by an obscure division of the Homeland Security. Not much choice--to prison as a terrorist or work with folks who want to turn him into a 20-year-old terrorist-hunting seal.
No, I won't tell you how it turns out, other than there are a lot of nail-biting flash-banging pages. Go buy it from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
I received a free advanced reader's copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
April 19, 2016
Assault on Saint Agnes, Joseph Courtemanche’s premier novel, hits the ground running and barely pauses for the reader to catch his breath. I read it straight through in one day, only stopping to run out for Chinese takeaway so I could keep up my strength. This is indeed a real page turner and the pace hits breakneck speed the closer you get to the finale.
Bringing all his experiences to bear as a former Police Officer and Middle East/North Africa Analyst with the United Stated Naval Security Group, Joseph Courtemanche has created a new hero, Colonel Bobby Kurtz and shown what a man of God can do. No matter, that Bobby Kurtz is retired from the Navy, happily married and gone on to a quieter life. His experience, wisdom and reliance on God pull Bobby back into the fray as the only one who can decipher the terrorist plans for mayhem and prevent their crippling attack on the United States.
Move over Jack Ryan, I want the hero on my side wearing the full armor of God!
Bringing all his experiences to bear as a former Police Officer and Middle East/North Africa Analyst with the United Stated Naval Security Group, Joseph Courtemanche has created a new hero, Colonel Bobby Kurtz and shown what a man of God can do. No matter, that Bobby Kurtz is retired from the Navy, happily married and gone on to a quieter life. His experience, wisdom and reliance on God pull Bobby back into the fray as the only one who can decipher the terrorist plans for mayhem and prevent their crippling attack on the United States.
Move over Jack Ryan, I want the hero on my side wearing the full armor of God!
April 20, 2016
When terrorists descend on St. Paul’s Saint Agnes Church, Bobby Kurtz crushes their evil plans by being in the right place at the right time. Dragged back into his former life as a Navy cryptologist, Kurtz helps a shadowy government agency foil the plans of terrorist cells that are out to destroy the Twin Cities’ power grid. I surrendered to the quickening pace of the novel and gladly ignored my to-do list to find out Bobby Kurtz’s limits (he had none.) As a resident of Minneapolis, the familiar locations created a believable backdrop. And knowing author Joseph Courtemanche’s experience as a former police officer and Middle East/North Africa Analyst with the United States Navy, I disappeared into the fast-paced thriller, wondering if I was reading fiction after all. The cliffhanger at the end left me breathless. More Bobby Kurtz, please! And soon!
*I received a copy of Assault on Saint Agnes in exchange for an honest review.
*I received a copy of Assault on Saint Agnes in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2016
i actually read this book a while ago but today I listened to the audio version while driving. It was a fantastic experience, though I may have hit 80 a few times during exciting moments. I really had to laugh at the descriptions of lunches, snacks, and coffee breaks. And a chill went through my senses as the bad guys discussed plans in little old Milwaukee at a Brewers game no less. I highly recommend this version, even i you have already read it. Just set the cruise.
April 30, 2016
Assault on Saint Agnes is filled with nonstop action that kept me fully engaged. I was hooked from the very first page and had a hard time setting it aside when the need would arise. I found Bobby to be instantly likeable and a completely realistic guy. I can't recommend this book highly enough and am hoping there's many more books to come by this wonderful author.
April 18, 2016
Assault on St. Agnes is a page turner. I received an early copy from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review of the work. I started the story in the afternoon, and finished it at midnight. This first novel has a solid plot and vivid description. I’m eagerly waiting for a sequel.
June 18, 2019
This military/terrorist thriller has a lot of action. The Saint Agnes Church is St. Paul, MN is attacked by terrorists. They did not expect to deal with Bobby Kurtz. He is ready to destroy the terror cell. His former skills and experience are put to use in fighting to win over evil. He puts his life and marriage at risk. This is fast paced and suspenseful. I received a copy of this novel from Goodread's Giveaways in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 21, 2018
This is a real page-turner from an author with inside knowledge of this country's security issues. I don't want to spoil the ending, but I am impatiently awaiting the sequel.
April 15, 2025
This book sends you on an emotional roller-coaster. Written by Joe Courtemanche, it takes a look at the before and aftermath of a terroristic event in Minneapolis. Nicely well-done and thrilling.
October 6, 2016
An intense thriller grounded in real-world experience. Joseph uses his prior military experience to craft a taut suspense with an ending that leaves the reader in shock. Bobby Kurtz isn't your typical action hero, and his caustic wit and straight-talking, straight-shooting ways will win you over.
April 20, 2016
A Can't-Put-Down Thriller!
One of my favorite modern-day authors is Vince Flynn (who unfortunately passed on a few years back). I loved his realistic portrayal of geo-political issues, and in spite of not always agreeing with Mitch Rapp’s (Vince’s hero) method of dealing with the bad guys, you still rooted for him. I always wondered what a Christian would do given the same situations.
Well, that question’s been answered in Joseph Courtemanche’s Assault on Saint Agnes. The book begins right after the church of Saint Agnes was attacked by terrorists. Rather, the bad guys attempted to attack, but their plans were foiled by former spook and Arabic linguist, Bobby Kurtz, who was simply at the church to worship. He did worship that day, by saving all but one parishioner and eliminating the terrorists.
That’s just the beginning of Bobby’s problems as he’s *asked* to become part of the shadow government, and they begin uncovering a far more hideous and widespread terrorism plot.
Bobby Kurtz is a very unlikely hero when you first meet him, as he’s been retired from the military for several years and has since bulked up to Santa size. And yes, jokes abound at Bobby’s expense, but Bobby always has a comeback. He’s got this sarcastic wit that makes me laugh out loud, and makes him come across as not only likeable but very realistic.
And then there are the scenes told from the terrorists’ point of view as they’re planning their impending attack. The scenes are chilling in their realistic portrayal. Knowing the author has experience in these types of scenarios, you realize not only how true-to-life those scenes are, but how plausible they are. Adding to the chill-factor is the fact that this book takes place in my back yard, and many of the locales mentioned are places I frequent.
One other aspect of this story I really enjoyed was the romance between Bobby and his wife, Grace, again painting a realistic portrayal of a husband and wife who love and respect and fight with each other amidst the turmoil of their lives. The relationship makes Bobby seem just like the rest of us.
So, if you’re looking for a sweet romance or cozy mystery, pass on this book, but if you want a can’t-put-down thriller, you’ll love Assault on Saint Agnes! I can’t wait for Joe’s next book, which won’t be out soon enough!
One of my favorite modern-day authors is Vince Flynn (who unfortunately passed on a few years back). I loved his realistic portrayal of geo-political issues, and in spite of not always agreeing with Mitch Rapp’s (Vince’s hero) method of dealing with the bad guys, you still rooted for him. I always wondered what a Christian would do given the same situations.
Well, that question’s been answered in Joseph Courtemanche’s Assault on Saint Agnes. The book begins right after the church of Saint Agnes was attacked by terrorists. Rather, the bad guys attempted to attack, but their plans were foiled by former spook and Arabic linguist, Bobby Kurtz, who was simply at the church to worship. He did worship that day, by saving all but one parishioner and eliminating the terrorists.
That’s just the beginning of Bobby’s problems as he’s *asked* to become part of the shadow government, and they begin uncovering a far more hideous and widespread terrorism plot.
Bobby Kurtz is a very unlikely hero when you first meet him, as he’s been retired from the military for several years and has since bulked up to Santa size. And yes, jokes abound at Bobby’s expense, but Bobby always has a comeback. He’s got this sarcastic wit that makes me laugh out loud, and makes him come across as not only likeable but very realistic.
And then there are the scenes told from the terrorists’ point of view as they’re planning their impending attack. The scenes are chilling in their realistic portrayal. Knowing the author has experience in these types of scenarios, you realize not only how true-to-life those scenes are, but how plausible they are. Adding to the chill-factor is the fact that this book takes place in my back yard, and many of the locales mentioned are places I frequent.
One other aspect of this story I really enjoyed was the romance between Bobby and his wife, Grace, again painting a realistic portrayal of a husband and wife who love and respect and fight with each other amidst the turmoil of their lives. The relationship makes Bobby seem just like the rest of us.
So, if you’re looking for a sweet romance or cozy mystery, pass on this book, but if you want a can’t-put-down thriller, you’ll love Assault on Saint Agnes! I can’t wait for Joe’s next book, which won’t be out soon enough!
February 9, 2017
Just a few months ago, no one would believe a terrorist would kill a priest in a church. With the death of the french priest in his sanctuary, in a small village in France, this past summer, the plot to this debut book from Joseph Courtemanche becomes easy to imagine.
A terror cell has decided to attack a church in the town of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Not only does it rob the congregants and town of the peace they have always felt but it ticks off the wrong man. Bobby Kurtz is a peace-loving soul who had walked away from a life of hunting out the bad guys. Now he's been pulled back in. His single-minded pursuit to find the ones responsible for an act of violence committed on his home turf may cost him his life, may cost his marriage, but its a risk he's willing to take if it means the good guys win this round.
What he uncovers is a plot that could send the twin towns into a cold darkness at Christmas. It takes all his skills and experience to hatch a plan that may work if God and weather are on his side.
This plot is well written but so highly believable that asking the reader to make a willing suspension of disbelief is not necessary. What bothered me most is, this is something that could happen in any city, town, any village. if it happened in my area, I would want a Bobby Kurtz around. I can't wait to read his next adventure.
I recommend this wonderful story by novice author Joseph Courtemanche. It would not surprise me to see this become a film. The images painted by his words say they need to be on the big screen. I wonder who will play the leading man. Tommy Lee Jones? George C. Scott? Dennis Hopper?
Read the book and tell me your choice.
A terror cell has decided to attack a church in the town of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Not only does it rob the congregants and town of the peace they have always felt but it ticks off the wrong man. Bobby Kurtz is a peace-loving soul who had walked away from a life of hunting out the bad guys. Now he's been pulled back in. His single-minded pursuit to find the ones responsible for an act of violence committed on his home turf may cost him his life, may cost his marriage, but its a risk he's willing to take if it means the good guys win this round.
What he uncovers is a plot that could send the twin towns into a cold darkness at Christmas. It takes all his skills and experience to hatch a plan that may work if God and weather are on his side.
This plot is well written but so highly believable that asking the reader to make a willing suspension of disbelief is not necessary. What bothered me most is, this is something that could happen in any city, town, any village. if it happened in my area, I would want a Bobby Kurtz around. I can't wait to read his next adventure.
I recommend this wonderful story by novice author Joseph Courtemanche. It would not surprise me to see this become a film. The images painted by his words say they need to be on the big screen. I wonder who will play the leading man. Tommy Lee Jones? George C. Scott? Dennis Hopper?
Read the book and tell me your choice.
April 18, 2016
I purchased an autographed copy from the author at a signing event prior to general release. After talking to the author, you realize how his experience was woven into the plot. The in depth knowledge of this modern threat facing America is remarkable, his contacts in the world of the “good guys” is evident. This is not the type of story that is just “made up”, it appears to have come from actual plots that have been foiled. I suspect this comes from his extensive contacts who live in the counter terrorism word, but I do not know that for a fact. The real life locations, along with the practical approach to achieve the terrorist goals, make this a very plausible and scary possibility. We live in an open society, and this type of scenario could happen almost anywhere in the country.
The book itself is a pleasure to read, each chapter is bite sized and stays on point. The writing style is very straight forward and easily understood, there were only a few sentences I needed to re-read. Each chapter will take an individual to a specific time and place, and describe the thought process and actions taken at that time. This format allows you to know both how and why things are unfolding as they are. With this understanding of the characters, you want to continue on to the next chapter to see what happens next. After all, the next chapter is also bite sized and wont take long to read, this pulls you into the story and makes reading the book fast.
The book itself is a pleasure to read, each chapter is bite sized and stays on point. The writing style is very straight forward and easily understood, there were only a few sentences I needed to re-read. Each chapter will take an individual to a specific time and place, and describe the thought process and actions taken at that time. This format allows you to know both how and why things are unfolding as they are. With this understanding of the characters, you want to continue on to the next chapter to see what happens next. After all, the next chapter is also bite sized and wont take long to read, this pulls you into the story and makes reading the book fast.
May 14, 2016
I received an advanced complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and seeing as though this is not an area that I usually (read “never”) reach for on a bookshelf, I wasn’t sure how to give an honest (but hopefully positive) review for a book I was pretty sure I wouldn’t much like.
And then I started reading.
I was very surprised at how quickly I became engrossed in this book. In fact, I had it read within 36 hours, which says a lot for a book with such serious subject matter.
Told from both points of view, it gives an extremely knowledgeable insight into the mindset of those willing to die for what they believe in – both hero and villain – and what that means when those beliefs pit culture and religion against each other.
Assault on St Agnes is chilling in its revelation of the place terrorism has in OUR OWN backyard today and Courtemanche’s military background and knowledge of the terrorist mentality make the story all too believable. Although he obviously could, Courtemanche doesn’t talk over the reader’s head, and although told from a Christian perspective, it is far from preachy.
The characters in the book have just enough quirks to make them believable, which helps a “head in the sands” reader like myself have hope that while evil is out there lurking, so too are there people committed to keeping the rest of us safe from it.
I only hope we all have a Bobby Kurtz in our lives, if not in our neighborhoods.
And then I started reading.
I was very surprised at how quickly I became engrossed in this book. In fact, I had it read within 36 hours, which says a lot for a book with such serious subject matter.
Told from both points of view, it gives an extremely knowledgeable insight into the mindset of those willing to die for what they believe in – both hero and villain – and what that means when those beliefs pit culture and religion against each other.
Assault on St Agnes is chilling in its revelation of the place terrorism has in OUR OWN backyard today and Courtemanche’s military background and knowledge of the terrorist mentality make the story all too believable. Although he obviously could, Courtemanche doesn’t talk over the reader’s head, and although told from a Christian perspective, it is far from preachy.
The characters in the book have just enough quirks to make them believable, which helps a “head in the sands” reader like myself have hope that while evil is out there lurking, so too are there people committed to keeping the rest of us safe from it.
I only hope we all have a Bobby Kurtz in our lives, if not in our neighborhoods.
Read
April 18, 2016I received an early copy of the book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review of the work.
Courtemanche's zest for realism is laced throughout the book. Each chapter keeps the reader engaged. It was hard to put down. The main character, Bobby Kurtz, has a good mixture of sarcasm and common sense which kept me turning the pages. Abbott's deal with Kurtz really gave him no wiggle room for a decision: join the team or go to jail. Kurtz's skills, intelligence, realism and religion help him negotiate the myriad of characters that he encounters. The brutality with which he destroys the enemy is rivaled only by his humanity when he talks to the young police officer.
Even though you see Kurtz's Christianity, it does not overwhelm you and seem too preachy. You get to understand how and why he reached that point in his life, which lends to his humanity, and leads to the reasoning to help the country he loves...yet once again.
I enjoy these types of books, which I put in the class of Tom Clancy, and W. E. B. Griffin. Each character is beautifully detailed. Courtmanche kept my attention, and my intellect poised every chapter. I was hoping to see more of Kurtz's family life so that we could view for ourselves who keeps him so grounded, but that just may be in another book. If you are a Clancy, or Griffin fan, you need to read this book.
Courtemanche's zest for realism is laced throughout the book. Each chapter keeps the reader engaged. It was hard to put down. The main character, Bobby Kurtz, has a good mixture of sarcasm and common sense which kept me turning the pages. Abbott's deal with Kurtz really gave him no wiggle room for a decision: join the team or go to jail. Kurtz's skills, intelligence, realism and religion help him negotiate the myriad of characters that he encounters. The brutality with which he destroys the enemy is rivaled only by his humanity when he talks to the young police officer.
Even though you see Kurtz's Christianity, it does not overwhelm you and seem too preachy. You get to understand how and why he reached that point in his life, which lends to his humanity, and leads to the reasoning to help the country he loves...yet once again.
I enjoy these types of books, which I put in the class of Tom Clancy, and W. E. B. Griffin. Each character is beautifully detailed. Courtmanche kept my attention, and my intellect poised every chapter. I was hoping to see more of Kurtz's family life so that we could view for ourselves who keeps him so grounded, but that just may be in another book. If you are a Clancy, or Griffin fan, you need to read this book.
April 19, 2016
I would first like to thank Mr. Courtemache for the advanced copy of "Assault on Saint Agnes" in exchange for a fair and honest review.
In a single word review "Wow". The first mistake I made was starting to read this book in the late evening. I did not want to put it down but alas the next day was normal so I had to do the best thing. It takes a lot to keep my attention, just ask my wife. This book did that. I found myself racing with the plot. When describing what he is doing now, Bobby Kurtz says"...we're the good guys who stand on that wall: Sheepdogs above the flock." This is an excellent sheepdog book. When asked about how he is holding up, his response is "I'm fine. I did what I had to do at the time. I didn't enjoy it, but I'm sure it was the right thing to do." This is something we should all aspire to. In many ways Bobby Kurtz is Joe Everyman with special talents. He struggles with concerns, fears and his "ability to make it work" after being out of the "spook" business for an extended time. A very telling quote from Bobby is "We spend our lives trying to be who we think we are and forget what's at the core of our being." At Bobby's core is a very strong and unshakable truth. As a last endorsement, I will be getting this book for both of my sons and my son-in-law. We have many sheepdogs.
In a single word review "Wow". The first mistake I made was starting to read this book in the late evening. I did not want to put it down but alas the next day was normal so I had to do the best thing. It takes a lot to keep my attention, just ask my wife. This book did that. I found myself racing with the plot. When describing what he is doing now, Bobby Kurtz says"...we're the good guys who stand on that wall: Sheepdogs above the flock." This is an excellent sheepdog book. When asked about how he is holding up, his response is "I'm fine. I did what I had to do at the time. I didn't enjoy it, but I'm sure it was the right thing to do." This is something we should all aspire to. In many ways Bobby Kurtz is Joe Everyman with special talents. He struggles with concerns, fears and his "ability to make it work" after being out of the "spook" business for an extended time. A very telling quote from Bobby is "We spend our lives trying to be who we think we are and forget what's at the core of our being." At Bobby's core is a very strong and unshakable truth. As a last endorsement, I will be getting this book for both of my sons and my son-in-law. We have many sheepdogs.
April 18, 2016
Wow! I have been eagerly anticipating this novel for months. Knowing that the author is a former police officer and Middle East/North Africa Analyst set the bar high for my expectations. Courtemanche not only delivers a fantastic thriller but he expertly pulls back the curtain on current events. Every step of the way, I found myself thinking more about the threats that our world faces today. While we all know about the evil that lurks in this world, this book also offers something very important that you won't hear in the daily news--hope. I loved that the hero wasn't the stereotypical thriller hero. Bobby's journey is our journey too--the journey of realizing that there's a hero in all of us. And no matter what we've been through or how old we are, we can always make the decision to fight for the Kingdom of Light and the good. I'll be reading everything this author publishes and I can't wait to see what's next!
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2016
Assault On Saint Agnes is not my "usual" type of book, but a friend asked me if I would like to read it and I agreed. I have to say that this book is loaded with action. The topics of Gun Control and Terrorism are so true and real in the world we live in today. I felt like the book was very well written until I got to the end. To me, the end of the book was a little rushed. We have all this information given to us throughout the entire book, and then BAM it's over. I felt like some of the characters could have been developed more, but overall the character descriptions were good. There were a few "loose ends" at the end, but I'm not entirely sure that wasn't done on purpose.... Who knows!? Maybe a sequel is in the making!!
If you like a book loaded with action, that addresses real life issues, then this is the book for you. I honestly think that Joseph Courtemanche has the writing skills to be amazing and I would definitely read another book written by him.
*I received a copy of this book for my honest review, which I have provided.*
If you like a book loaded with action, that addresses real life issues, then this is the book for you. I honestly think that Joseph Courtemanche has the writing skills to be amazing and I would definitely read another book written by him.
*I received a copy of this book for my honest review, which I have provided.*
April 18, 2016
Let me start off by thanking the author for a complimentary copy of his debut in exchange for an honest review.
If you're a fan of Military stories with atypical heroes, humor, great dialogue, and well-researched writing, look no further! Joseph Courtemanche is a story-teller extraordinaire, and his debut will sweep you up and take you on an unforgettable ride to an America city affected by the global threat of terrorism. But it's not the topic that kept me reading. Rather, the well-paced unraveling of one man's life and his effect on his relationships, community and the world remind readers that sometimes hope shows up in the most surprising package. And a sacrifice for the greater good is rarely executed without immeasurable loss. The world needs more heroes like Bobby Kurtz. Looking forward to future books by Joe. Keep writing, my friend, and kudos on the exciting debut of Assault on Saint Agnes!
If you're a fan of Military stories with atypical heroes, humor, great dialogue, and well-researched writing, look no further! Joseph Courtemanche is a story-teller extraordinaire, and his debut will sweep you up and take you on an unforgettable ride to an America city affected by the global threat of terrorism. But it's not the topic that kept me reading. Rather, the well-paced unraveling of one man's life and his effect on his relationships, community and the world remind readers that sometimes hope shows up in the most surprising package. And a sacrifice for the greater good is rarely executed without immeasurable loss. The world needs more heroes like Bobby Kurtz. Looking forward to future books by Joe. Keep writing, my friend, and kudos on the exciting debut of Assault on Saint Agnes!
April 19, 2016
This is military fiction at it's best! Short chapters filled with a great balance of military life and passionate characters will leave the reader wanting more. I found myself thinking I would only read one chapter and ended up reading more. The story draws you in, so be prepared. At the time while reading, I didn't know about the author's military background, but I figured he must have lived this life. Writing like this comes from the heart.
A Hollywood movie needs to be made about Bobby Kurtz. He is the perfect combination of Robert Ludlum's Jason Bourne and Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan.
This a book to be read and enjoyed. Thank you for providing me with an advanced copy, Mr. Courtemanche.
A Hollywood movie needs to be made about Bobby Kurtz. He is the perfect combination of Robert Ludlum's Jason Bourne and Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan.
This a book to be read and enjoyed. Thank you for providing me with an advanced copy, Mr. Courtemanche.
August 26, 2016
Truly Terrifying!!
As a veteran, I have often thought about all the vulnerable "Targets" in our country since 9-11. Due to political in-fighting and Political correctness run amuck, I fear that this type of scenario in this wonderful authors first shot at a novel is quite possibly even in this post 9-11 world. God forgive me but, It's been too long since so many people lost their lives in a mass casualty event in a terror strike, that the PC police have caused our guard to be way down. WAKE UP AMERICA! This "novel" should scare the hell out of anyone who reads it! My jaw dropped at the ending, I pray that the author has a sequel in the works! You must read this book for a rip roaring story! You will not be disappointed!!!
As a veteran, I have often thought about all the vulnerable "Targets" in our country since 9-11. Due to political in-fighting and Political correctness run amuck, I fear that this type of scenario in this wonderful authors first shot at a novel is quite possibly even in this post 9-11 world. God forgive me but, It's been too long since so many people lost their lives in a mass casualty event in a terror strike, that the PC police have caused our guard to be way down. WAKE UP AMERICA! This "novel" should scare the hell out of anyone who reads it! My jaw dropped at the ending, I pray that the author has a sequel in the works! You must read this book for a rip roaring story! You will not be disappointed!!!
April 30, 2016
Joe Courtemanche has created an offbeat protagonist who, at the beginning of the story, finds himself in the wrong place at the right time and gets pulled back into a life he'd thought he left behind long ago. The authenticity of characters, situations, action, and dialogue is first-rate. The insidiousness and cunning of his antagonists--people who want to attack America and our way of life--are chilling and ominous, just the way I like it in thrillers. Courtemanche mixes in touches of humor and buck-the-system irreverence that make you root for his hero all the more. An engaging and entertaining read for fans of black ops thrillers.
April 24, 2016
Paris, Brussels, Boston. Terror attacks and the threat of terror attacks are usually far away, but what if it were in your own back yard? Former Navy hot shot Bobby Kurtz looks like an ordinary guy who might go to your church or your writers’ group in quiet Minneapolis, Minnesota, but when terrorists strike, his old instincts kick in, and he is all action. Alternating points of view between Bobby and the terror cell preparing to make Paris and Brussels feel like child’s play will keep you turning pages in this high-action, military thriller with a spiritual twist. By the end, every gun owner in Minnesota is out fighting terrorists.
June 27, 2016
I received this book free from Goodreads.
Excellent, outstanding, one of the best books I have read in a very long time. From the first page I was hooked. Assault on Saint Agnes is extremely well written. It is almost scary at how true it really could be.
I finished the book in just over a day because I had to stop to get some sleep. The characters are wonderful and the story line amazing, right up until the last word. I sure hope Joseph Courtemanche has more like this in the works. It certainly leaves you wanting for more!
I will definitely be recommending this book to all my reader friends.
Excellent, outstanding, one of the best books I have read in a very long time. From the first page I was hooked. Assault on Saint Agnes is extremely well written. It is almost scary at how true it really could be.
I finished the book in just over a day because I had to stop to get some sleep. The characters are wonderful and the story line amazing, right up until the last word. I sure hope Joseph Courtemanche has more like this in the works. It certainly leaves you wanting for more!
I will definitely be recommending this book to all my reader friends.
April 22, 2016
As a reader of the advanced copy of Assault on Saint Agnes, I was quickly entrenched in intensity of the plot that begins on page one. In our world where real life is all too often more tragic than we would ever have imagined, one man steps up to make a difference, a sacrifice, a commitment for good. The potential realities of the plot gripped me much the way I'm pulled to the story lines of Joel Rosenberg's novels.
If you're a thriller enthusiast, this is a must read for you. It was an honor to receive an advanced copy. You will not be disappointed with this book!
If you're a thriller enthusiast, this is a must read for you. It was an honor to receive an advanced copy. You will not be disappointed with this book!
April 24, 2016
I received an early copy of the book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review of the work. Assault on St. Agnes is an outstanding read. The only problem you will have when reading the book is that you won’t want to put it down. It was a very smooth read and kept my attention throughout each chapter. Being in the Marine Corps myself, I understood the author’s military touch in the book. I am looking forward to Courtemanche’s next book and perhaps another Bobby Kurtz experience!
July 18, 2016
I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways and although it was very different from anything I usually read, I was pleasantly surprised. It took me a bit to get into this book, but once I did I loved it. I really enjoyed the character of Bobby Kurtz and the fact that not every aspect was picture perfect within the story. It felt very genuine unlike most books. I am wondering about the ending though which left some loose ends. Could there be a sequel in the future?? Hmmm...I guess we'll find out soon enough.
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