A fictional thriller based on historical events, Liberian Gold is an action-filled tale about a young analyst drawn into the dark world of CIA intelligence and foreign government manipulation. BOOK 2 IN THE NICK PARKER SERIES The CIA came calling just as Nick was feeling somewhat normal again. An easy, non-dangerous mission. It’s good money. He agrees. But, as he gets closer to the truth, his enemies multiply and the danger escalates. With Liberia in flames and friends’ lives at stake, he must make the right decision.
Patrick Sydor paints a vivid picture of life in Liberia during a time of unrest in Liberian Gold. The CIA comes back into Nick’s life just as he seems to have put his life back together from a traumatic mission in the past. His physical wounds have healed but the mental and emotional scars are very real and just under the surface, ready to burst forth at the slightest provocation. He leaves the love of his life, Eliz, for an easy non-combat mission, or so he thinks. The money is good and he’ll be home in a couple of months. Neither Nick nor Eliz realizes that Nick will return with more physical and mental scars, a changed man.
The author introduces Abby, a seductive woman NGO aid worker, seemingly in place to distract Nick. He forgets the love of his life, Eliz, and succumbs to infidelity during a time when both their lives are threatened.
The author has written extensive scene descriptions, and it is hard to keep track of all the players: government and non-government. Each of the entities has similar motivations but different ways to achieve their ultimate goal. Liberian Gold is an interesting read if you like a history of a small West African government.
The author paints a vivid picture of life in Liberia during a time of unrest and government turmoil, with extensive scene descriptions, some a bit long. But overall a very entertaining and educational historical fiction story. The opening scene accurately portrayed a serious racket ball match between the MC and a friend. As a RB player myself, it immediately drew me in and presented the MC's strengths and weaknesses deftly. The story slowed a bit in the middle, mainly due to some lengthy descriptions, but in the end, it made things more believable. The pace quickened at the half way point and did not slow down till the end. A very enjoyable read.