Prince of Fire (Gabriel Allon)

I'm following in sequence all the Gabriel Allon novels and love how the Daniel Silva creates the atmosphere that the reader is actually 'involved'. I know these books are fiction but the research for writing all the action, planning, etc. is mind-boggling. So real. I actually am better understanding what I read and hear on the news now and what I have read while going to classes for school. Can't wait to see what comes next. I'm reading Moscow now (started two days ago) and noticed I'm 70% into the book. Can't put them down. . . .Great reading.

I have decided to read the entire Gabriel Allon series. Glad I did. The Author is getting better with each new book. Since I am "reviewing my purchases" I want readers to know that the books arrived early and were in very good shape as stated. Read these books in the order stated by the Author and I feel you will have a better read. Pointpilot

You've heard about the Israeli agent (or the Palestinian terrorist) who fell into a trap? No, I'm not referring to a two guys walk into a bar joke. I'm addressing the fact that the agent vs terrorist theme is getting so shop worn, that books like these seem to be novels that are churned out by some supercomputer hidden in a safe house south of Florence, Italy. The next novel to be written should be how a group of agents interested in restoring novelty to spy thrillers break into this house and destroy the hack writing supercomputer.

As for me one of the earliest, and the best of terrorist vs agent novels is John le Carre's book The Little Drummer Girl novel, a book that deeply explores the motivations of men on both sides of the deadly fence of political enmity. All through this book I kept thinking, surely I've read this book before. I hadn't, but I have read ones that follow the same plot.

A Palestinian terrorist blows up a building. An Israeli agent goes after him. People get misled and fall into traps. They escape from traps and chase around some more. There are women in the book, all beautiful, and, of course some are destined to die. That's it folks. That's the whole book. Yes, I don't think that I've left anything out. And if that seems awfully familiar to you then you know on page one how the book will end.

In some ways I found it difficult to rate this book at only two stars, because Daniel Silva is a fairly decent writer. He occasionally throws in an adjective or an adverb, descriptive parts of speech that many writers of this ilk find extremely difficult to use.

My recommendation. If you like reading this sort of plot over and over again written in a competent style then by all means read the book. Otherwise spare yourself the deadly repetition of terrorist vs agent. And, certainly, if you have not read John le Carre's The Little Drummer Girl go read it first, or reread it if you've had the distinct pleasure of having already enjoyed it.

Easy to read. Very authentic in operational details of how the Israeli intell establishment works. Just enough action to keep it from being boring but not too much to make it unreal. Love the way it moves through Europe and the Middle East to give you insight into how terrorist organizations operate throughout the area.

This is a nice story with some interesting detail coincidentally I pick that up just before the Paris bombings and where is happily astounded at the portrayal by the silver line during the terrorist attack in Paris

Gabriel is a very amazing and interesting character that I enjoy following. D Silva weaves a fine web and keeps the action going with wonderful scenic description and timely political references . I'm a fan!

These are such great stories. I am trying to read the Gabriel Allon series in order....it's like reading one big very interesting book and one can hardly wait until the next chapter. I recommend this series to anyone who likes face paced, intriguing books....hard to put them down and do one's chores!

Daniel Silva weaves a great tale of the struggles of Israel against terrorists out to destroy the country. Along with providing an entertaining mystery, the author gives the reader insight into the workings of the best intelligence and antiterrorist apparatus in the world. This was my first Silva novel; it won't be my last.

I cannot get enough of this man's writing, intense action, vivid location descriptions and amazing dialogue. I read all15 Gabriel Allon books in less than 15 weeks. The only down side is trying to find a fiction writer to match Silva's enormous gift of story-telling! I have urged him to meet talented Director Ridley Scott and make one of a dozen Allon novels into a movie.

Silva can always be counted on to deliver a taut, fast-moving yet nuanced thriller and this is no exception. Hero Gabriel Allon sets out, somewhat reluctantly, to to avenge a massive, ugly bombing in Rome and in so doing, is forced to consider why he does what he does. In this book, as in his other Allon books, Silva ties the plot into the historic troubles between Israel and the Palestinians and ably reflects the complexities that motivate both sides. Allon is a believeable hero, now aging. Will Silva let him fade into the sunset? Doubtful, although Silva is quite capable of penning compelling novels that don't rely on this worthy hero. All in all, a good thriller. Your time won't be wasted on this one.

Although read out of order, I am with each story, enthralled. This marks the completion of ALL of the Gabriel Allon and I am dismayed to have to wait until the summer of '15 for the next installment. Ah well, wait, I will. Who will be the next villain vanquished by the sword of Israel?

I had the coincidence of reading this book, the fourth I have read of Silva, in the same week that Elmore Leonard died.
The press talked about Leonard's writing rules, one of which was "always leave out what the reader is going to skip."
Clearly Silva either did not read this rule, or did not understand it, or simply ignored it.
He includes details that are mind-numbing. Particularly in geography.
"we drove up the street, turned left, then turned right, then came to a group of cypress tress followed bu a marvelous view of the (you name it) and then passed on to...." That kind of unnecessary detail abounds!!
Also, in his historical narrative he goes way over the required in telling stories about this place in Lebanon or that place in Palestine or that village in God only knows where.
His basic stories are interesting but he ruins them with what Elmore Leonard would have left out.

Awesome series with outstanding reference and details of modern day history regarding the radical Islamist movement. The fictional stories are intriguing and a great way to gain a better understanding of why the world is dealing with these sadly mislead people.

Yet another lesson to be learned on how the world and it's inhabitants continue the struggle of life and liberty. What will one nation or entity do in order to justify its existence? May evil forever be vanquished so that the just and righteous continue to live on. But who's to say who is who? It's all in the eye of the beholder. I say, let freedom ring!!!

This novel begins with a statement: "There had been warning signs".

Gabriel Allon returns as "Mario Delvecchia" to finish restoring the Bellini.

Marriage to a beautiful woman is a distinct possibility.

There is a massive explosion in Rome blamed on terrorists.

Arab Terrorists have a complete dossier on Gabriel's career.

These same terrorists are planning to carry out several more major events against specified targets, and Gabriel is directed by his superiors to prevent these acts. The Bellini will have to wait.

Unfortunately, there are many more boring distractions than found in "The Confessor", requiring skimming Ad Nauseum. Details such as historical references to both terrorists and Israelies going back centuries. I skipped (not just skimmed) pages, even chapters looking for content and found none, until towards the end of Chapter 12, when things got interesting, and Gabriel got back to tracking down terrorists.

Unfortunately again, many more boring distractions return, until just before the end, when there are a few surprises.

These many (too many) distractions force me to rate this novel barely an okay read, and can, therefore, not rate this novel any higher.

Silva has done it again! Another page turner. This is the eighth book I have read by Silva and the fifth in the Gabriel Allon series. Silva has yet to disappoint me. Allon is now in his mid-fifties. How much longer can he keep this up? Only time and the next eight books in the series will tell! Great read!!

I find Daniel Silva's Gabriel Allon series very dependable entertainment. Silva weaves intricate tales, but usually with similar themes - the state of Israel is under attack in some way and only one person can get them throught it. But the writing style, the description of the various locales and the emotional complexity of the characters makes each one unique. Unlike other authors, like David Baldacci, whom I also like, these novels are not a whole lot of work to read - just really good entertainment. I always enjoy learning some aspect of Israel's history that is woven through these books, too.

Allon is a very complex character in his personal beliefs, his loyalty to his seriously disabled wife as well as his love of his new interest, Chiara. Also mix that in with his love of country and his realization that he is the best person for certain jobs and you have a protagonist that takes you on a very emotional ride. His competence, focus on his tradecraft, intelligence and ruthlessness paint him as someone you definitely want on your side.

I do agree somewhat with Miriam that he ending was a bit abrupt given the complexity of the rest of the book. It was satisfying, but seemed like the author got to a point and said, "I need to be done," and wrapped it up quickly.

The problem with many continuing series is that the story arc gets a bit worn...like the "Spencer" novels. This Silva offering broke whatever mold was forming with a good story line and familiar characters but with a whole new twist. No spoiler here, read it and find out for yourself.

As I have stated in other reviews, Silva's Gabriel Allon character is alive, real, and appealing. Do try to read all of Silva's books in the order they are written. While each is very readable on its own, "seriating, in order," will make the books that much more interesting.

In Prince of Fire, Daniel Silva starts already in the middle of the action and what follows is not only a great detective story but a tale of betrayals, rebellions, murders and double-crosses. Despite being an adrenaline ride is not as intense as it should be given the topic. Still, Silva knows his history and makes ample use of it to deliver a very convincing case against Arafat and company. There is plenty of material in Prince of Fire to fuel a smart political discussion or two; I particularly liked when Gabriel poses the questions to Eli Lavon and Ari Shamron “Did we drive them [Palestinians] out?” and Shamron being the tough cookie he is says why is convinced it was the best course of action.

In Prince of Fire Gabriel assembles a formal team for the first time. Those four people and a few more added later will partake on the adventures which come later in the series. Also in this installment Gabriel is asked for the first time to take charge of the “Office” as Director. And the foundation of Gabriel and Chiara’s relationship is put to the test. Will Gabriel assume control of the “Office”? Will he marry Chiara?

The problem with many continuing series is that the story arc gets a bit worn...like the "Spencer" novels. This Silva offering broke whatever mold was forming with a good story line and familiar characters but with a whole new twist. No spoiler here, read it and find out for yourself.

As I have stated in other reviews, Silva's Gabriel Allon character is alive, real, and appealing. Do try to read all of Silva's books in the order they are written. While each is very readable on its own, "seriating, in order," will make the books that much more interesting.

In Prince of Fire, Daniel Silva starts already in the middle of the action and what follows is not only a great detective story but a tale of betrayals, rebellions, murders and double-crosses. Despite being an adrenaline ride is not as intense as it should be given the topic. Still, Silva knows his history and makes ample use of it to deliver a very convincing case against Arafat and company. There is plenty of material in Prince of Fire to fuel a smart political discussion or two; I particularly liked when Gabriel poses the questions to Eli Lavon and Ari Shamron “Did we drive them [Palestinians] out?” and Shamron being the tough cookie he is says why is convinced it was the best course of action.

In Prince of Fire Gabriel assembles a formal team for the first time. Those four people and a few more added later will partake on the adventures which come later in the series. Also in this installment Gabriel is asked for the first time to take charge of the “Office” as Director. And the foundation of Gabriel and Chiara’s relationship is put to the test. Will Gabriel assume control of the “Office”? Will he marry Chiara?

All of these books are gripping and worth it. Gabriel Allon is like James Bond but with a twist. He is a cold blooded killer you actually get to love. You can identify with him and follow on his great adventures. A page turner for real that is over much too quickly.

The book as others of his main character move along at a level that keeps your intrest in what is going to happen next. It also leads to a sense of anticipating the next turn in the story until it reaches its conclusion. I rated it the way I did because there are other of his books I found more enjoyable.

The Gabriel Allon books are always enjoyable but I think this was the best I've read so far. It really provides insights into the roots of the Palestine Israeli conflict with quite a balanced view. The basic story is excellent as always.

Prince of Fire contains all of the ingredients that Daniel Silva fans expect: Suspense, complex plots, fascinating characters, human situations that resonate deeply, and action scenes that keep you on the edge of your seat. Gabriel Allon is one of spy fiction's most intriguing characters. What a ride!--Donna Del Oro

I enjoy reading Daniel Silva's books because they are all like continuations with different missions but they are all very exciting and entertaining
with Gabriel Allon the hero that you grow to almost love (am 80 years old) no worry.
Maria S. Obropta

Daniel Silva has become one of the best authors of suspense. His books on Gabriel Allon are historical as well as suspense-driven thrillers!

Once you start reading a Gabriel Allon story it is so difficult to put down.

As with all other Daniel Silva books, particularly the Gabriel Allon series, this book is awesome. It will keep you interested and turning pages. Filled with the familiar characters in this series, this book is sure to please.

Very realistic and informative. This series is in my opinion the best thriller/spy series written.This is as good or better than le carre george smiley series. I would encourge readers to read both. They’re both different but great.

A very enjoyable read. The research that was necessary to write this book, even though it is a novel, based on historical facts, was fabulous. I will now read his other 4 books in the Gabriel Allon series.

His characters are so visual that you feel that you are there in person witnessing the events described. Read one and you are instantly a Silva fan looking forward to reading everything this man writes. He is the consummate novelist.

Since accidentally picking up a book in the Allon series by chance, I've yet to be able to get enough. The journeys through Europe and Asia are like word paintings for the imagination. Anyone looking for adventure has found it. Brilliant characters, all of them.

Daniel Silva never disappoints! Prince of Fire was the first of his books that I read, and I now order it to introduce friends to his work. Absolutely top-notch book from an absolutely top-notch author.