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Ayesha Ryder #2
Ryder: American Treasure
An electrifying Ayesha Ryder novel in which the U.S. presidency and the fate of two world powers hang in the balance.
Two centuries ago, British forces defeated the American army in the field and entered Washington, looting and burning the White House and the Capitol. Today, that loot would have inestimable historic and financial worth—but it has never been found. The brilliant scholar Ayesha Ryder, known to the world as the woman who saved Israel’s prime minister from an assassin’s bullet, is asked to find it.
After tearing herself away from her search for the Ark of the Covenant, Ayesha quickly becomes embroiled in a murderous battle between rival candidates for the American presidency and a terrorist organization bent on revenge. While running for her life, she must unweave a tangled web linking President James Madison to the stolen treasure and implicating the British prime minister in a steamy sex scandal. Following the twisted trails of history, Ayesha uncovers the truth and confronts the consequences of her own secret past.
Two centuries ago, British forces defeated the American army in the field and entered Washington, looting and burning the White House and the Capitol. Today, that loot would have inestimable historic and financial worth—but it has never been found. The brilliant scholar Ayesha Ryder, known to the world as the woman who saved Israel’s prime minister from an assassin’s bullet, is asked to find it.
After tearing herself away from her search for the Ark of the Covenant, Ayesha quickly becomes embroiled in a murderous battle between rival candidates for the American presidency and a terrorist organization bent on revenge. While running for her life, she must unweave a tangled web linking President James Madison to the stolen treasure and implicating the British prime minister in a steamy sex scandal. Following the twisted trails of history, Ayesha uncovers the truth and confronts the consequences of her own secret past.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2015
About the author
Nick Pengelley
10 books25 followersNick Pengelley cites many influences on his writing. Readers of "Ryder" will not be surprised that authors like H. Rider Haggard, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, John Buchan and Peter O'Donnell figure prominently. He is a fan of the ripping yarns of the inter-war years - by writers such as Sapper, Dornford Yates, Edgar Wallace and Leslie Charteris. His more modern favourites include Umberto Eco (particularly "The Name of the Rose"), Alan Furst, Douglas Adams, Terry Pratchett, Neil Gaiman and Elizabeth Kostova ("The Historian"). Nicholas reads a "book or so" a week (and is horrified to think that, if he lives to be 200, he may only get to read 10,000). These days, although he still reads fiction, he is mainly interested in modern European and Middle Eastern history, and biography, having discovered some years ago that truth really is stranger than fiction. He lists his heroes, literary adventurers all, as Winston Churchill, T.E. Lawrence, Gertrude Bell and Teddy Roosevelt.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 6, 2015
Bell, Book & Candle | Ryder: American Treasure Review
As a fan of the first novel of the series, I am over the moon that I had the chance to read Ryder: American Treasure. Ayesha Ryder is back, and she's kicking butt and taking names! Oh, and she's busy searching for the Ark of the Covenant... The story picks up where the last book left off: in the aftermath of the Tower of London incident and discovery of the secret treaty. This time Ayesha is approached to look for the lost treasure from the war of 1812, but also does a little side quest (if you can call it that)!
The characters were...interesting in this novel, to say the least. Ayesha is always scary-amazing to me. Her cool demeanor puts me on edge, and gives a whole new meaning to "still waters run deep". I honestly didn't much care for Hoenig; he seemed like a random character thrown in to give Ayesha a romantic interest (or something like that). Dame Imogen seemed disloyal when Ayesha came under fire, and Thomas Madison was a huge skeez (sleazy guy). Only the Prime Minister, Susannah Armstrong, seemed to have faith in Ayesha - at least in my opinion.
I would normally call the antagonists of the series "bad guys," but "bad" is a massive understatement. These people are just downright wicked! As for the storyline regarding the Ark, it was indeed an intriguing idea as to the actual location. Although, I have it on good authority as to where the real location of the Ark is — and it isn't in Europe! Let's just say I have my legitimate sources...especially a few in Israel. Don't ask don't tell!
The writing was impeccable, however the storyline wasn't as good as the first but still enjoyable. If any of you do decide to read this novel, watch out for the turncoats — they're everywhere (pun intended).
As a fan of the first novel of the series, I am over the moon that I had the chance to read Ryder: American Treasure. Ayesha Ryder is back, and she's kicking butt and taking names! Oh, and she's busy searching for the Ark of the Covenant... The story picks up where the last book left off: in the aftermath of the Tower of London incident and discovery of the secret treaty. This time Ayesha is approached to look for the lost treasure from the war of 1812, but also does a little side quest (if you can call it that)!
The characters were...interesting in this novel, to say the least. Ayesha is always scary-amazing to me. Her cool demeanor puts me on edge, and gives a whole new meaning to "still waters run deep". I honestly didn't much care for Hoenig; he seemed like a random character thrown in to give Ayesha a romantic interest (or something like that). Dame Imogen seemed disloyal when Ayesha came under fire, and Thomas Madison was a huge skeez (sleazy guy). Only the Prime Minister, Susannah Armstrong, seemed to have faith in Ayesha - at least in my opinion.
I would normally call the antagonists of the series "bad guys," but "bad" is a massive understatement. These people are just downright wicked! As for the storyline regarding the Ark, it was indeed an intriguing idea as to the actual location. Although, I have it on good authority as to where the real location of the Ark is — and it isn't in Europe! Let's just say I have my legitimate sources...especially a few in Israel. Don't ask don't tell!
The writing was impeccable, however the storyline wasn't as good as the first but still enjoyable. If any of you do decide to read this novel, watch out for the turncoats — they're everywhere (pun intended).
October 9, 2014
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
And this is definitely an honest review.
It is not often I give one star.
I really found nothing in this book that I enjoyed. The plot was lukewarm at best and the research and details around it didn't help to bring it depth.
My biggest issue with this book are the characters. These are normally the force that draws a reader into the book. It's our concern for their lives and struggles that keeps the pages turning. What we expect back are that the characters stay true to their paths, meaning that they don't do crazy things that seems out of the ordinary for them. The other things we expect is that they care about themselves. Well, none of these characters seem interested in their own story, so why should the reader be interested. The historical expert knows almost nothing about history, or investigation. The political figures don't care about how their personal actions affect their public lives. There is such a general nonchalance about the plot that it made this story very tough to read all the way through.
I'm not sure the exact genre this book was shooting for, but it misses on them all.
And this is definitely an honest review.
It is not often I give one star.
I really found nothing in this book that I enjoyed. The plot was lukewarm at best and the research and details around it didn't help to bring it depth.
My biggest issue with this book are the characters. These are normally the force that draws a reader into the book. It's our concern for their lives and struggles that keeps the pages turning. What we expect back are that the characters stay true to their paths, meaning that they don't do crazy things that seems out of the ordinary for them. The other things we expect is that they care about themselves. Well, none of these characters seem interested in their own story, so why should the reader be interested. The historical expert knows almost nothing about history, or investigation. The political figures don't care about how their personal actions affect their public lives. There is such a general nonchalance about the plot that it made this story very tough to read all the way through.
I'm not sure the exact genre this book was shooting for, but it misses on them all.
January 16, 2015
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley as a part of a book tour for a fair and honest review. I received no additional payment for my opinion of the reading material provided. I rated this book 5 out of 5 Stars.
An ex-Fedayeen fighter turned scholar, Ayesha Ryder finds herself in a strange and unique position. Awarded the “George Cross”, England’s highest honor for civilian gallantry, for her actions in bringing the new “Holy Land” together, she finds herself framed for a colleague’s murder and having to solve a century old mystery to prove her innocence. So begins Ryder: American Treasure, the second book in the Ayesha Ryder series by Nick Pengelley. Filled with fast paced action, political intrigue and betrayal, and even a little romance, Mr. Pengelley once again captured this reader’s attention and never let it go.
Hoping to escape a party being given in her honor for her contribution to the new peace in the Middle East, Dr. Ayesha Ryder finds herself between a rock and a hard place; follow her seemingly dead end investigation into the current whereabouts of the Arc of the Covenant, or assist the U.S. Secretary of State locate valuables stolen from the White House by the British during the War of 1812. Reluctantly agreeing to look into the matter of the “stolen valuables”, Ayesha soon realizes that Lawrence of Arabia and the American items are somehow connected. Framed for murder, Ayesha and an unexpected partner become involved in a race to solve hidden clues before the police, or a secret group of killers, get in their way.
Continuing to develop Ayesha’s character, Mr. Pengelley, reminds us that our actions in the past will always play a part in our future. Even though Ayesha has made a huge contribution to the new peace in the Middle East, she’s plagued by memories of her participation with the Fedayeen and the violence she was personally involved in. As Ayesha continues to search for the Arc of the Covenant, it’s clear that her interest is not just scholarly – she’s hoping it will help her make up for some of what happened. We also get to see more of Ayesha the woman, who misses having a significant man in her life.
We also get to re-connect with a couple of the secondary characters from the first book, and of course meet some new secondary characters. I especially enjoyed re-connecting with Dame Imogene Worsley, the head of England’s MI-5, Sir Norman Eldritch, Her Majesty's Home Secretary for Great Brittain and Northern Ireland (who happens to be Imogene’s lover and new fiancée), and Susannah Armstrong, the Prime Minister. They all play a part in Ayesha’s new adventure. We also get to meet Yael Stenger, a “diplomat” from the Embassy of the Holy Land, Diana Longshore, the U.S. Secretary of State, and Thomas Madison, the U.S. President’s Chief of Staff, and a relative of James Madison, the president during the War of 1812. They too play an important part in Ayesha’s new adventures.
Will Ayesha locate the stolen valuables looted by the British before she and her partner becomes victims of the killers determined to stop them? Will she find the clues she needs to locate the Arc of the Covenant and finish what Lawrence of Arabia was doing before he was killed? And will Lady Madrigal Carey, Ayesha’s new best friend, be able to help her survive her new adventures? You’ll have to read Ryder: American Treasure to find out. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read Ryder: Bird of Prey, Ayesha’s next adventure, which will be released this May and involves The Maltese Falcon.
An ex-Fedayeen fighter turned scholar, Ayesha Ryder finds herself in a strange and unique position. Awarded the “George Cross”, England’s highest honor for civilian gallantry, for her actions in bringing the new “Holy Land” together, she finds herself framed for a colleague’s murder and having to solve a century old mystery to prove her innocence. So begins Ryder: American Treasure, the second book in the Ayesha Ryder series by Nick Pengelley. Filled with fast paced action, political intrigue and betrayal, and even a little romance, Mr. Pengelley once again captured this reader’s attention and never let it go.
Hoping to escape a party being given in her honor for her contribution to the new peace in the Middle East, Dr. Ayesha Ryder finds herself between a rock and a hard place; follow her seemingly dead end investigation into the current whereabouts of the Arc of the Covenant, or assist the U.S. Secretary of State locate valuables stolen from the White House by the British during the War of 1812. Reluctantly agreeing to look into the matter of the “stolen valuables”, Ayesha soon realizes that Lawrence of Arabia and the American items are somehow connected. Framed for murder, Ayesha and an unexpected partner become involved in a race to solve hidden clues before the police, or a secret group of killers, get in their way.
Continuing to develop Ayesha’s character, Mr. Pengelley, reminds us that our actions in the past will always play a part in our future. Even though Ayesha has made a huge contribution to the new peace in the Middle East, she’s plagued by memories of her participation with the Fedayeen and the violence she was personally involved in. As Ayesha continues to search for the Arc of the Covenant, it’s clear that her interest is not just scholarly – she’s hoping it will help her make up for some of what happened. We also get to see more of Ayesha the woman, who misses having a significant man in her life.
We also get to re-connect with a couple of the secondary characters from the first book, and of course meet some new secondary characters. I especially enjoyed re-connecting with Dame Imogene Worsley, the head of England’s MI-5, Sir Norman Eldritch, Her Majesty's Home Secretary for Great Brittain and Northern Ireland (who happens to be Imogene’s lover and new fiancée), and Susannah Armstrong, the Prime Minister. They all play a part in Ayesha’s new adventure. We also get to meet Yael Stenger, a “diplomat” from the Embassy of the Holy Land, Diana Longshore, the U.S. Secretary of State, and Thomas Madison, the U.S. President’s Chief of Staff, and a relative of James Madison, the president during the War of 1812. They too play an important part in Ayesha’s new adventures.
Will Ayesha locate the stolen valuables looted by the British before she and her partner becomes victims of the killers determined to stop them? Will she find the clues she needs to locate the Arc of the Covenant and finish what Lawrence of Arabia was doing before he was killed? And will Lady Madrigal Carey, Ayesha’s new best friend, be able to help her survive her new adventures? You’ll have to read Ryder: American Treasure to find out. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read Ryder: Bird of Prey, Ayesha’s next adventure, which will be released this May and involves The Maltese Falcon.
January 17, 2016
3,5/5
Na het lezen van het eerste boek in deze trilogie schreef ik: "Het boek leest ontzettend vlot door de hoeveelheid actie, er zitten behoorlijk wat sterke vrouwelijke personages in (altijd een plus) en hoewel het niet altijd even geloofwaardig is, is het een boeiend verhaal. Meer moet dat niet zijn. Ideaal "zet uw hoofd effe af"-lectuur."
En dat is ook helemaal van toepassing op het tweede boek in de Ryder trilogie. De ene actiescène wordt gevolgd door de volgende. Er zijn hopen intriges. Massa's intriges. En Ayesha Ryder laat weer heel wat mensen van poepie ruiken.
Na het lezen van het eerste boek in deze trilogie schreef ik: "Het boek leest ontzettend vlot door de hoeveelheid actie, er zitten behoorlijk wat sterke vrouwelijke personages in (altijd een plus) en hoewel het niet altijd even geloofwaardig is, is het een boeiend verhaal. Meer moet dat niet zijn. Ideaal "zet uw hoofd effe af"-lectuur."
En dat is ook helemaal van toepassing op het tweede boek in de Ryder trilogie. De ene actiescène wordt gevolgd door de volgende. Er zijn hopen intriges. Massa's intriges. En Ayesha Ryder laat weer heel wat mensen van poepie ruiken.
January 29, 2018
I couldn't put this one down. The lesbian part was central to the political part of the story and actually touched lightly on it I thought. This was not an erotic book at all. I quite enjoyed the story and plan to read the next one.
October 29, 2017
Spannend, maar de vele foutjes in zowel het eerste deel als in dit deel zijn wel erg storend. Je zou verwachten dat er wel kritisch naar de tekst gekeken zou worden voor publicatie.
July 26, 2020
This title started out a bit slow and it took me a bit to get the characters figured out, since this was a book 3 and I hadn't read the first two yet, but things really picked up and the action and plot twists were so well done. I will definitely have to read books 1 and 2 now.
January 21, 2015
Nick Pengelley in his new book, “Ryder: American Treasure” Book Two in the Ayesha Ryder series published by Alibi gives us another adventure with Ayesha Ryder.
From the back cover: Fast-paced, edgy, and action-packed, the perfect read for anyone who loves the novels of Steve Berry or James Rollins, Ryder: American Treasure marks the return of Ayesha Ryder, a woman digging into history’s most dangerous secrets—and hiding some of her own.
During of the War of 1812, British troops ransacked the White House and made off with valuables that were never returned. Two centuries later, a British curator finds a vital clue to the long-vanished loot. Within hours, the curator is assassinated—and Ayesha Ryder, a Palestinian-born antiquities expert, is expertly framed for his murder.
Who could be behind such a conspiracy? And why do they want Ryder out of the way? To find out, she picks up a trail leading from a mysterious nineteenth-century letter to the upcoming presidential election. As Ryder dodges killers in the shadow of hidden alliances, sexual blackmail, and international power plays, she finds that all roads lead to the Middle East, where a fragile peace agreement threatens to unravel . . . and another mystery begs to be discovered.
Ryder’s rarefied academic career and her violent past are about to collide. And her only hope of survival is to confront a powerful secret agent who has been waiting for one thing: the chance to kill Ayesha Ryder with his own two hands.
Fast paced action, political intrigue and betrayal are just some of the ingredients in this second adventure with Ayesha Ryder. Don’t worry you can read this all by itself and it will be just fine. Though I do recommend that you read the first one just for the sheer enjoyment of it. During the War of 1812 certain items were stolen from the White House. Now Ayesha is being forced to find them. At the same time she has been framed for murder and she has to figure that out as well. “Ryder: American Treasure” is a top-notch adventure that will really get your blood flowing as you flip pages trying to find out what is going to happen next. filled with blackmail, betrayal and murder. Mr. Pengelley really knows how to write a good story that involves you and keeps your interest. Ayesha and the rest of the characters in this book are so well done you would swear they are real. I am so glad to have found Nick Pengelley and am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from TLC Book Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Fast-paced, edgy, and action-packed, the perfect read for anyone who loves the novels of Steve Berry or James Rollins, Ryder: American Treasure marks the return of Ayesha Ryder, a woman digging into history’s most dangerous secrets—and hiding some of her own.
During of the War of 1812, British troops ransacked the White House and made off with valuables that were never returned. Two centuries later, a British curator finds a vital clue to the long-vanished loot. Within hours, the curator is assassinated—and Ayesha Ryder, a Palestinian-born antiquities expert, is expertly framed for his murder.
Who could be behind such a conspiracy? And why do they want Ryder out of the way? To find out, she picks up a trail leading from a mysterious nineteenth-century letter to the upcoming presidential election. As Ryder dodges killers in the shadow of hidden alliances, sexual blackmail, and international power plays, she finds that all roads lead to the Middle East, where a fragile peace agreement threatens to unravel . . . and another mystery begs to be discovered.
Ryder’s rarefied academic career and her violent past are about to collide. And her only hope of survival is to confront a powerful secret agent who has been waiting for one thing: the chance to kill Ayesha Ryder with his own two hands.
Fast paced action, political intrigue and betrayal are just some of the ingredients in this second adventure with Ayesha Ryder. Don’t worry you can read this all by itself and it will be just fine. Though I do recommend that you read the first one just for the sheer enjoyment of it. During the War of 1812 certain items were stolen from the White House. Now Ayesha is being forced to find them. At the same time she has been framed for murder and she has to figure that out as well. “Ryder: American Treasure” is a top-notch adventure that will really get your blood flowing as you flip pages trying to find out what is going to happen next. filled with blackmail, betrayal and murder. Mr. Pengelley really knows how to write a good story that involves you and keeps your interest. Ayesha and the rest of the characters in this book are so well done you would swear they are real. I am so glad to have found Nick Pengelley and am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from TLC Book Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 4, 2015
Ayesha Ryder has fully recovered from the injuries she sustained at the Tower and it's at the awards ceremony where she's being honored that she finds her next job. Unfortunately, it does mean putting her own search for the Ark on hold, but this new treasure hunt is too tantalizing to resist.
In 1814, when the British burned the White House, it was rumored that the soldiers absconded with treasures belonging to America. If it was true, the treasure was thought to have been lost long ago in the sinking of the ship that carried it away. But a recent discover seems to indicate otherwise. And this discovery, and its connection to Field Marshal Horatio Herbert Kitchener, are what draws Ayesha in. But she's not the only one in search of the Washington Treasure.
I really enjoyed the first Ryder tale. I honestly wasn't at all sure what to expect when I started, but by the end I found that I'd not only really liked it but that I was very much looking forward to more books in the series (always a good thing). So it was a given that I was going to take part in this second tour, after all it's not everyday that you get to read an espionage action/adventure thriller that also includes alluring bits of history as part of the plot (think Steve Berry's Cotton Malone series).
Ryder: American Treasure proves that Pengelley's first outing wasn't a fluke! Much of the plot does continue veins begun in the first Ryder book (so I do recommend staring there). The Shamir are still after Ayesha and she's still battling memories of her own actions as a member of the Palestinian fedayeen, not to mention the politics surrounding the new Holy Land. But there's politics and scheming beyond even that to face now as well, and it all seems to hinge on this lost treasure.
What's really cool is that much of the main plot points are based in fact! There is a rumored missing treasure said to have sunk in the aftermath of the burning in 1814. There were even reports that a sunken ship discovered near Novia Scotia might have been carrying some of the booty. It's details like these and others that make Ayesha's stories so compelling - in much the same way Indiana Jones or the aforementioned Steve Berry books are. Fans of those series and types of stories will surely find something to love in Pengelley's series.
And there's more to come! Ayesha's third adventure, Ryder: Bird of Prey, is due out in May and this time she's on the hunt for the Maltese Falcon.
In 1814, when the British burned the White House, it was rumored that the soldiers absconded with treasures belonging to America. If it was true, the treasure was thought to have been lost long ago in the sinking of the ship that carried it away. But a recent discover seems to indicate otherwise. And this discovery, and its connection to Field Marshal Horatio Herbert Kitchener, are what draws Ayesha in. But she's not the only one in search of the Washington Treasure.
I really enjoyed the first Ryder tale. I honestly wasn't at all sure what to expect when I started, but by the end I found that I'd not only really liked it but that I was very much looking forward to more books in the series (always a good thing). So it was a given that I was going to take part in this second tour, after all it's not everyday that you get to read an espionage action/adventure thriller that also includes alluring bits of history as part of the plot (think Steve Berry's Cotton Malone series).
Ryder: American Treasure proves that Pengelley's first outing wasn't a fluke! Much of the plot does continue veins begun in the first Ryder book (so I do recommend staring there). The Shamir are still after Ayesha and she's still battling memories of her own actions as a member of the Palestinian fedayeen, not to mention the politics surrounding the new Holy Land. But there's politics and scheming beyond even that to face now as well, and it all seems to hinge on this lost treasure.
What's really cool is that much of the main plot points are based in fact! There is a rumored missing treasure said to have sunk in the aftermath of the burning in 1814. There were even reports that a sunken ship discovered near Novia Scotia might have been carrying some of the booty. It's details like these and others that make Ayesha's stories so compelling - in much the same way Indiana Jones or the aforementioned Steve Berry books are. Fans of those series and types of stories will surely find something to love in Pengelley's series.
And there's more to come! Ayesha's third adventure, Ryder: Bird of Prey, is due out in May and this time she's on the hunt for the Maltese Falcon.
February 8, 2016
Ayesha is een slimme tante die wel weg weet in de wereld van het onrustige Midden- Oosten en veel verstand heeft op het vlak van conflicten en historische zaken uit die regio. Ze heeft veel ervaring en bezit veel waardevolle eigenschappen. Ze vaart vaak op haar intuïtie, waarbij je soms je hart vasthoudt, maar zoals het in een trilogie gaat: ze gaat heus niet dood, en dus krijg je daar dat Bond/Croft/Jones gevoel. Het is soms wat onaannemelijk maar wel zeer vermakelijk.
In dit deel raakt Ayesha wederom verwikkeld in een zaak vol mysterie en complotten, alleen zit ze dit keer zelf op de schopstoel. Grote vraag is natuurlijk wie daarvoor heeft gezorgd, wie heeft zijn/haar pijlen op Ayesha gericht en vooral waarom? Ayesha gaat, zoals te verwachten is, niets uit de weg en is volhardend om de reden te achterhalen wat er aan de hand is en waarom zij juist verdachte nummer één is. Dat alles te maken heeft met een plundering in het verleden van het Witte Huis en de moord op een curator die zich met die zaak bezighield, is al snel duidelijk. De historische kennis van Ayesha komt weer goed uit en voegt echt iets bijzonders toe aan deze verhalen. De openstaande lijnen zullen ongetwijfeld in het derde en laatste deel worden afgesloten en daar wordt reikhalzend naar uitgekeken.
Beoordeling
Nick Pengelley heeft duidelijk zichzelf overtroffen met dit tweede deel in deze Ayesha Ryder trilogie. Waar het eerste deel soms wat kansen liet liggen en overdreven overkwam, is er nu meer spanning, meer verdieping van personages én hij heeft het Lara Croft meets Indiana Jones gehalte weten te behouden. Dat geeft deze serie een avontuurlijke touch die lekker vlot weg leest, en dat je nu nog nieuwsgieriger bent naar bepaalde zaken rondom deze bijzondere vrouw.
Want dat er geheimen zijn is zeker, dat er nog zaken zijn die niet zijn afgerond én dat er nog heel wat staat te gebeuren. Dat kan gezien de afloop van dit tweede deel gewoon niet anders. Het politieke gekonkel, de realistische historische aspecten in combinatie met goedgeschreven actiemomenten maken dat je het boek zo uit hebt. Alhoewel dit boek prima te lezen is zonder het eerste deel te hebben gelezen zou dat jammer zijn. Je merkt de groei van Ayesha en begrijpt bepaalde verhaallijnen beter, vooral gezien haar verleden, omdat die haar juist zo bijzonder maken. Pengelley heeft een boeiend personage gecreëerd met deze Ayesha Ryder die na dit overtuigende tweede deel zelfs filmwaardig zou zijn.
In dit deel raakt Ayesha wederom verwikkeld in een zaak vol mysterie en complotten, alleen zit ze dit keer zelf op de schopstoel. Grote vraag is natuurlijk wie daarvoor heeft gezorgd, wie heeft zijn/haar pijlen op Ayesha gericht en vooral waarom? Ayesha gaat, zoals te verwachten is, niets uit de weg en is volhardend om de reden te achterhalen wat er aan de hand is en waarom zij juist verdachte nummer één is. Dat alles te maken heeft met een plundering in het verleden van het Witte Huis en de moord op een curator die zich met die zaak bezighield, is al snel duidelijk. De historische kennis van Ayesha komt weer goed uit en voegt echt iets bijzonders toe aan deze verhalen. De openstaande lijnen zullen ongetwijfeld in het derde en laatste deel worden afgesloten en daar wordt reikhalzend naar uitgekeken.
Beoordeling
Nick Pengelley heeft duidelijk zichzelf overtroffen met dit tweede deel in deze Ayesha Ryder trilogie. Waar het eerste deel soms wat kansen liet liggen en overdreven overkwam, is er nu meer spanning, meer verdieping van personages én hij heeft het Lara Croft meets Indiana Jones gehalte weten te behouden. Dat geeft deze serie een avontuurlijke touch die lekker vlot weg leest, en dat je nu nog nieuwsgieriger bent naar bepaalde zaken rondom deze bijzondere vrouw.
Want dat er geheimen zijn is zeker, dat er nog zaken zijn die niet zijn afgerond én dat er nog heel wat staat te gebeuren. Dat kan gezien de afloop van dit tweede deel gewoon niet anders. Het politieke gekonkel, de realistische historische aspecten in combinatie met goedgeschreven actiemomenten maken dat je het boek zo uit hebt. Alhoewel dit boek prima te lezen is zonder het eerste deel te hebben gelezen zou dat jammer zijn. Je merkt de groei van Ayesha en begrijpt bepaalde verhaallijnen beter, vooral gezien haar verleden, omdat die haar juist zo bijzonder maken. Pengelley heeft een boeiend personage gecreëerd met deze Ayesha Ryder die na dit overtuigende tweede deel zelfs filmwaardig zou zijn.
February 18, 2015
“Ryder: American Treasure” was published in 2015 and was written by Nick Pengelley (http://www.nicholaspengelley.com). This is Mr. Pengelley’s second novel and the second of the “Ayesha Ryder” series.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘R’ as it contains Violence, Mature Language and Mature Situations. This Thriller novel is set in contemporary London, England. The primary character is Ayesha Ryder.
This novel picks up a short time after the first novel “Ryder” ends. Dr. Ayesha Ryder is still the director of research at the Walsingham Institute for Oriental Studies, and has just been recognized formally for her heroic efforts depicted in the first novel. She had been a member of the Fedayeen in her teenage years. She suffered through torture by Israelis after being captured, then fought her way to freedom. Many years later her body is still covered with the physical scars and her last adventure had added a few new ones.
Dr. Ryder is investigating the location of the Arc of the Covenant, clues to which she had found left by T.E. Lawrence. She is sidetracked by a request from both the US and British governments to look into the possibility that items looted from Washington D.C. before the British troops burned the city during the War of 1812 still exist.
Ryder is soon sought by the police for a murder she didn’t commit, and is being stalked by unknown killers. Somehow this is connected to the American Treasure and the possibility of a letter hidden inside a stolen clock which identifies a traitor in the 1812 US government. A letter which could have an impact on the upcoming US presidential election.
I thoroughly enjoyed the 4.5 hours I spent reading this thriller. It, like the first novel, feels like a combination of James Bond, Indiana Jones and Laura Croft as Dr. Ryder follows the trail of clues, avoids police and matches wits with killers. Ryder demonstrates both cunning problem solving as well as the physical preservation skills she learned as a member of the Fedayeen. I liked the historical elements woven into the plot and enjoy the Ryder character. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I give this novel a 5 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘R’ as it contains Violence, Mature Language and Mature Situations. This Thriller novel is set in contemporary London, England. The primary character is Ayesha Ryder.
This novel picks up a short time after the first novel “Ryder” ends. Dr. Ayesha Ryder is still the director of research at the Walsingham Institute for Oriental Studies, and has just been recognized formally for her heroic efforts depicted in the first novel. She had been a member of the Fedayeen in her teenage years. She suffered through torture by Israelis after being captured, then fought her way to freedom. Many years later her body is still covered with the physical scars and her last adventure had added a few new ones.
Dr. Ryder is investigating the location of the Arc of the Covenant, clues to which she had found left by T.E. Lawrence. She is sidetracked by a request from both the US and British governments to look into the possibility that items looted from Washington D.C. before the British troops burned the city during the War of 1812 still exist.
Ryder is soon sought by the police for a murder she didn’t commit, and is being stalked by unknown killers. Somehow this is connected to the American Treasure and the possibility of a letter hidden inside a stolen clock which identifies a traitor in the 1812 US government. A letter which could have an impact on the upcoming US presidential election.
I thoroughly enjoyed the 4.5 hours I spent reading this thriller. It, like the first novel, feels like a combination of James Bond, Indiana Jones and Laura Croft as Dr. Ryder follows the trail of clues, avoids police and matches wits with killers. Ryder demonstrates both cunning problem solving as well as the physical preservation skills she learned as a member of the Fedayeen. I liked the historical elements woven into the plot and enjoy the Ryder character. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I give this novel a 5 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
December 26, 2015
De lezer wordt meteen in het verhaal gesmeten. Een flashback van de hoofdpersoon zorgt ervoor dat je bij de les bent en de vlotte schrijfstijl en korte hoofdstukken zorgen ervoor dat het zo blijft.
Ayesha Ryder is op zoek naar de Ark des Verbonds en is ondertussen ook verwikkeld in een internationaal conflict. Dit wordt wordt niet openbaar uitgevochten maar achter gesloten deuren die niet voor iedereen toegankelijk blijken te zijn, zodat het grote publiek hier niets van merkt.
Symbolen en geheimen zijn onderdeel van haar zoektocht. Zij is zelf onderdeel van een geheim.
De mystieke ervaringen van Ayesha wanneer ze de stem van iemand lijkt te 'horen' zijn geloofwaardig neergezet. Steeds heeft ze last van een black-out, dat blijkt niet zonder reden te zijn.
Het is prettig als je ook het eerste deel gelezen hebt, maar de personages worden nog duidelijk aan de lezer voorgesteld zodat het geen belemmering hoeft te zijn om op dit punt in de serie te beginnen. (Je mist dan natuurlijk wel een heel goed eerste deel.)
Een van de personages haat Ayesha Ryder zo enorm, waarom is dat zo? En wat zal er met haar gebeuren?
Ayesha is als karakter gegroeid sinds het eerste deel; ze geeft meer als hoofdpersoon en als mens.
'Gestolen erfgoed' leest alsof je een combinatie leest van het werk van Dan Brown en de avonturen van Indiana Jones, met een touch of James Bond. Lady Madrigal Carey zou je zomaar in een Bond-film tegen kunnen komen.
Een onverwacht einde siert dit bijzonder onderhoudend verhaal!
Heerlijk leesvoer voor de lange avonden. Deze serie wacht er op om verfilmd te worden.
Na de laatste woorden op de laatste bladzijde van het verhaal kwam er maar één woord in me op: YES!!
Het avontuur gaat verder met Ayesha. De volgende keer met een zoektocht naar De Maltese Falcon! Ik kan niet wachten, laat maar komen!!
Ayesha Ryder is op zoek naar de Ark des Verbonds en is ondertussen ook verwikkeld in een internationaal conflict. Dit wordt wordt niet openbaar uitgevochten maar achter gesloten deuren die niet voor iedereen toegankelijk blijken te zijn, zodat het grote publiek hier niets van merkt.
Symbolen en geheimen zijn onderdeel van haar zoektocht. Zij is zelf onderdeel van een geheim.
De mystieke ervaringen van Ayesha wanneer ze de stem van iemand lijkt te 'horen' zijn geloofwaardig neergezet. Steeds heeft ze last van een black-out, dat blijkt niet zonder reden te zijn.
Het is prettig als je ook het eerste deel gelezen hebt, maar de personages worden nog duidelijk aan de lezer voorgesteld zodat het geen belemmering hoeft te zijn om op dit punt in de serie te beginnen. (Je mist dan natuurlijk wel een heel goed eerste deel.)
Een van de personages haat Ayesha Ryder zo enorm, waarom is dat zo? En wat zal er met haar gebeuren?
Ayesha is als karakter gegroeid sinds het eerste deel; ze geeft meer als hoofdpersoon en als mens.
'Gestolen erfgoed' leest alsof je een combinatie leest van het werk van Dan Brown en de avonturen van Indiana Jones, met een touch of James Bond. Lady Madrigal Carey zou je zomaar in een Bond-film tegen kunnen komen.
Een onverwacht einde siert dit bijzonder onderhoudend verhaal!
Heerlijk leesvoer voor de lange avonden. Deze serie wacht er op om verfilmd te worden.
Na de laatste woorden op de laatste bladzijde van het verhaal kwam er maar één woord in me op: YES!!
Het avontuur gaat verder met Ayesha. De volgende keer met een zoektocht naar De Maltese Falcon! Ik kan niet wachten, laat maar komen!!
October 10, 2014
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, and was given an advance copy of the second. I have to say that I think this one is even better than the first so I was really surprised to see such a negative review posted! I suspect it may be owing to the fact that the novel is based around some very strong female characters (including a fantastic old bird who drinks martinis and would be perfectly played by Helen Mirren). The characters are unique and complex - not your generic female sterotypes - but because of this, I suppose I am not really surpised that they could rub some male readers the wrong way.
So, I found the novel really fast-paced, which is good because if I put a book down, I often have trouble finding time to get back to it. But I read this book in one night. I love the historical elements that are intervowen into the plot. I have died and gone to heaven with this book because I love the Indiana-Jones/National Treasure type feel. The clue tracing race against time is one of the things I find really gripping, plus I have a lot of interest in both European/American history, and so I just fell into these. If you have zero interest in history or politics, then maybe you wouldn't enjoy them or appreciate the cleverness in the plot as much.
I note that these novels do seem to sympathize with the current Palestinian plight through their lead character, so I expect that they will get some major backlash for it, and wonder if this might be the reason for the bad review because it doesn't seem to match up at all with the book. Anyhow, that's just my take on it but I have recommended this to my sister (who also loved the first one) and a number of friends with similar interests to mine.
So, I found the novel really fast-paced, which is good because if I put a book down, I often have trouble finding time to get back to it. But I read this book in one night. I love the historical elements that are intervowen into the plot. I have died and gone to heaven with this book because I love the Indiana-Jones/National Treasure type feel. The clue tracing race against time is one of the things I find really gripping, plus I have a lot of interest in both European/American history, and so I just fell into these. If you have zero interest in history or politics, then maybe you wouldn't enjoy them or appreciate the cleverness in the plot as much.
I note that these novels do seem to sympathize with the current Palestinian plight through their lead character, so I expect that they will get some major backlash for it, and wonder if this might be the reason for the bad review because it doesn't seem to match up at all with the book. Anyhow, that's just my take on it but I have recommended this to my sister (who also loved the first one) and a number of friends with similar interests to mine.
January 20, 2015
Ayesha Ryder wants nothing more than to recover from the events of Ryder and search for the Ark of the Covenant. She soon finds herself drawn into another mystery involving the British attack on the White House during the War of 1812. Rumors abound that the British stole valuable artifacts and when proof of the theft surfaces, America understandably wants them back as one of those treasures could be proof that there was a British spy, high up in the fledgling American government. Against her will, Ayesha finds herself pulled into the conflict and search for treasure. She discovers those who opposed the creation of the joint Holy Land are also not only involved in the hunt for the American treasure, but on a mission to kill her.
I have no idea how much of this is fact or how much is fiction. I do know that it's fast-paced and edgy. The profanity is more prolific and I could have done without the moderately explicit non-marital sex which also included a same sex relationship. If not for that, this would have been a 4 star book.
That said, however. I like Ayesha Ryder and I like this series. A lot. Ayesha is a tough, no-nonsense woman who can hold her own against pretty much anyone or anything, even while suffering the effects of PTSD. Nick writes strong female characters and I loved that he included a female British prime minister and a female American Secretary of State. It was great seeing Dame Imogen and Lady Madrigal have strong roles here.
Second in the Ryder series, the book could stand alone, but I would suggest reading them in order, simply for background and depth. Political thrillers are not my normal genre, but I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
I have no idea how much of this is fact or how much is fiction. I do know that it's fast-paced and edgy. The profanity is more prolific and I could have done without the moderately explicit non-marital sex which also included a same sex relationship. If not for that, this would have been a 4 star book.
That said, however. I like Ayesha Ryder and I like this series. A lot. Ayesha is a tough, no-nonsense woman who can hold her own against pretty much anyone or anything, even while suffering the effects of PTSD. Nick writes strong female characters and I loved that he included a female British prime minister and a female American Secretary of State. It was great seeing Dame Imogen and Lady Madrigal have strong roles here.
Second in the Ryder series, the book could stand alone, but I would suggest reading them in order, simply for background and depth. Political thrillers are not my normal genre, but I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 1, 2015
Another recommendation from a fellow blogger.
Even the name Ayesha Ryder sounded exotic. The combination of a very Middle Eastern first name with a Westernised surname made me think of some exotic creature and Ayesha very much is one.
Very fast paced, bursting with intrigue, lots of violence and violent imagery the storyline was a good one.
The year 1812 at war with Britain, America lost a great deal of artifacts all looted by the British. There are lots of people very interested in getting them back, all with ulterior motives. Two centuries later a curator at a British museum finds a vital clue and a couple of hours later he is assassinated with Ayesha being framed for the murder.
Whilst Ayesha's one ambition is to find the Golden Ark written in history of the famed Lawrence of Arabia she is unwittingly drawn into the American artifact adventure because she has no choice but to obey. She wants to do whatever she can and then return to her actual work of the Ark. Unknowing to her there are elements who are actively seeking her downfall and as with all fanatics, revenge is a very personal matter to them. Ayesha is their focus.
My first read of this author. This was an excellent introduction for me.
Liked the quick pace of the story telling, the story moving from one chapter to the next smoothly and everything very connected so that the pieces begin falling into place one by one like a jigsaw puzzle. The end was surprising but that is the excellence of the novel.
Even the name Ayesha Ryder sounded exotic. The combination of a very Middle Eastern first name with a Westernised surname made me think of some exotic creature and Ayesha very much is one.
Very fast paced, bursting with intrigue, lots of violence and violent imagery the storyline was a good one.
The year 1812 at war with Britain, America lost a great deal of artifacts all looted by the British. There are lots of people very interested in getting them back, all with ulterior motives. Two centuries later a curator at a British museum finds a vital clue and a couple of hours later he is assassinated with Ayesha being framed for the murder.
Whilst Ayesha's one ambition is to find the Golden Ark written in history of the famed Lawrence of Arabia she is unwittingly drawn into the American artifact adventure because she has no choice but to obey. She wants to do whatever she can and then return to her actual work of the Ark. Unknowing to her there are elements who are actively seeking her downfall and as with all fanatics, revenge is a very personal matter to them. Ayesha is their focus.
My first read of this author. This was an excellent introduction for me.
Liked the quick pace of the story telling, the story moving from one chapter to the next smoothly and everything very connected so that the pieces begin falling into place one by one like a jigsaw puzzle. The end was surprising but that is the excellence of the novel.
September 19, 2015
Kudos to Nick Pengelley, as he has written a second installment in the Ayesha Ryder series, which happens to be equally as thrilling and action-packed as the original. Surprisingly and pleasantly, Mr. Pengelley somehow managed to tone down his anti Israel litany making this read much more enjoyable for me than the first book. There is plenty of ass-kicking and excessive violence, with some graphic sex thrown in, combining all the elements needed to turn this series into a major blockbuster movie! I see Kristen Stewert or maybe sexy Mila Kunis playing the incredible Ayesha Ryder.The last page already sets the reader up for the third installment, which I believe will be out in early 2015.
If you enjoy fast paced action, historical fiction, lesbian sex and MidEast politics, then American Treasure will not disappoint!
I received an ARC compliments of NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
If you enjoy fast paced action, historical fiction, lesbian sex and MidEast politics, then American Treasure will not disappoint!
I received an ARC compliments of NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2014
Ryder American Treasure by Nicholas Pengelley
The author looked at a contemporary world situation, the conflicts in the Middle East, and offers reasons for it's existence and a possible solution in the book, Ryder. This book is more of a urban Indiana Jones with references back to the previous book. This book stands alone just fine though.
Ayesha Ryder is a protagonist of deep feelings. She has great regrets, great angers and a love that will forever be unrequited. Lady Madrigal, a beautiful but elderly former operative serves as a mentor and resource for Ryder.
The sack of Washington in 1812 as well as the missing Ark of the Covenant provide fodder for this complex mystery. The enemy opposing a reunited Middle East returns to plague Ryder as well as aspiring U.S. politicians. The story takes place in and about London once again.
I highly recommend.
Site: http://www.nicholaspengelley.com/#!ryder
The author looked at a contemporary world situation, the conflicts in the Middle East, and offers reasons for it's existence and a possible solution in the book, Ryder. This book is more of a urban Indiana Jones with references back to the previous book. This book stands alone just fine though.
Ayesha Ryder is a protagonist of deep feelings. She has great regrets, great angers and a love that will forever be unrequited. Lady Madrigal, a beautiful but elderly former operative serves as a mentor and resource for Ryder.
The sack of Washington in 1812 as well as the missing Ark of the Covenant provide fodder for this complex mystery. The enemy opposing a reunited Middle East returns to plague Ryder as well as aspiring U.S. politicians. The story takes place in and about London once again.
I highly recommend.
Site: http://www.nicholaspengelley.com/#!ryder
January 10, 2015
Ryder: American Treasure is the second book in the Ryder mystery/adventure series. It is well written and professionally edited.
The Ryder books have become a sort of Indiana Jones/intellectual mystery series all wrapped up in political intrigue. It is definitely a combination that works for me.
The main character is Ayeesha Ryder; an ex-Fedayeen fighter that regrets and is haunted by her past. She is a historian that loves hunting for lost historical objects and is capable of doing great physical harm to those who try to stop her.
Secondary characters are multi dimensional and well developed. They have a tendency to morph into someone the reader is not expecting.
The plot is fast paced and filled with history lessons. I love history (it's sort of a family hobby), so I was in my element.
I highly recommend this series and look forward to reading future books by this author.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
The Ryder books have become a sort of Indiana Jones/intellectual mystery series all wrapped up in political intrigue. It is definitely a combination that works for me.
The main character is Ayeesha Ryder; an ex-Fedayeen fighter that regrets and is haunted by her past. She is a historian that loves hunting for lost historical objects and is capable of doing great physical harm to those who try to stop her.
Secondary characters are multi dimensional and well developed. They have a tendency to morph into someone the reader is not expecting.
The plot is fast paced and filled with history lessons. I love history (it's sort of a family hobby), so I was in my element.
I highly recommend this series and look forward to reading future books by this author.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
February 26, 2015
A good mix of America, England and The Middle East, throw in a few Russian phrases and were off to the races. Absence British slang which can be indecipherable is a plus to this tale of treachery. A mix of CIA, MI5, American diplomats, British political figures, Israeli and Palestinian representatives continuing their everlasting pissing contest all make for a decent read. Chasing coveted artifacts in a race against time and the forces of evil seems to be a popular theme. Like favorite recipes each author seems to have the secret ingredients to make an enticing creation sure to lure the reader into turning page after page. Such is the case here where the mixture of scenarios include sex, shootings, stabbings, and spying, all adding to the satisfying enjoyment of a good book. I have no problems recommending this book to a friend.
January 16, 2015
I enjoyed the earlier book in this series, so I had high hopes that I'd enjoy this one, too - and it certainly exceeded expectations! A rip-roaring roller coaster ride involving MI5, CIA, politicians, fanatics, Lawrence of Arabia, a fantastic mystery and, of course, threats galore for Ayesha Ryder! The historical, religious and political intrigues are combined in a page-turner, 'don't put it down till you've read it all', first class story!
The characters are superbly brought to life, with strong female leads. There are lots of twists and turns - and a new challenge ahead in this book which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are superbly brought to life, with strong female leads. There are lots of twists and turns - and a new challenge ahead in this book which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2015
Ryder gets dropped right into another thriller when she is pressured into hunting for treasure from the 1814 Washington, D.C., that may reveal a traitor from the time who has ties to possible U.S. presidential candidates. Then there is the treasure Ryder wants to find, the Ark of the Covenant. Despite being framed for murder, suffering flashbacks to her past, and physical damage, Ryder manages to pull off another save for the good guys with unexpected help. Nick Pengelley kept Ryder and other characters moving and reacting at a frantic pace that comes together for an explosive climax. Makes me want to go and read the first Ryder adventure and look for more in the future!
December 23, 2014
All the characters are familiar, but the story is brand new, and takes the reader on a thrilling mystery, combining ancient artifacts with modern treachery and deception. The American Treasure is only one of the mysteries Ryder has to solve, and there is no shortage of bad guys to keep things interesting. The beginning of the book seemed a little slow, but it quickly became a real page-turner. Pengelley's imagination knows no bounds, and nothing is sacred, making the story all the more exciting and hard to second guess. I recommend you spend some time with Ryder.
January 4, 2015
Another action packed adventure starring Ayesha Ryder. This time she is chasing down the Ark of the Covenant and 1814 treasure from Washington USA. The combination of Secret service, terrorism and quests of religious/political significance is again evident in this story and makes an absorbing read. I enjoyed every minute.
August 12, 2015
This is the second book in a series of mystery/thrillers that are so smart. I love the combination of murder mystery with political/historical thriller. My review is at my blog here:
http://joyfullyretired.com/2015/01/22...
http://joyfullyretired.com/2015/01/22...
March 1, 2016
Very entertaining
Loved the suspense. Was fast paced and a fun read nice to have a female kick butt heroine I enjoyed
Loved the suspense. Was fast paced and a fun read nice to have a female kick butt heroine I enjoyed
February 16, 2015
Originally published at Reading Reality
If Lara Croft (Tomb Raider) and Indiana Jones had a love child, it would be Ayesha Ryder. After her first hair-raising adventure (Ryder, reviewed here) Ayesha is still following T.E. Lawrence’s clues to where he hid the Ark of the Covenant.
And yes, that’s the same Ark that Indy found. In a different continuum. It’s still just as awe-inspiring in this story as it was in the movie, and very nearly as deadly. But unlike the movie, this Ark isn’t spewing death all on its own - it’s the human agents that either want to exploit or suppress it who kill.
The Ark isn’t even their focus. There are, as always, lots of bad people after Ryder. But this time, they are following her as she searches for a treasure she doesn’t even care about. In this slightly alternate history, the two contenders for the American presidency want her to chase down the treasure looted from the White House in 1814 when the British took Washington in the War of 1812.
President James Madison, best known to history as Dolley Madison’s husband, supposedly left a clue in his old desk - a letter that named the traitor in his government. By the time the war ended, Madison’s term was nearly over, the British were gone, and the matter was hushed up. But in Ryder’s 21st century, the candidates both want the clue, in the hope of either hushing it up or publicizing it. One of those candidates is a direct descendant of Madison, who does not want his name blackened by association.
So the treasure that Ayesha is hunting for could easily have been part of the movie National Treasure.
After the events in Ryder, Ayesha’s world has gone on a slightly different course than our own in one very important aspect. The Israelis and the Palestinians have not merely made peace, but have banded together to create a single country in the territories belonging to Israel and the Palestinian authority. That new country has been named “The Holy Land”.
While most of the world is grateful to have that war-torn area finally at peace, there are forces in both America and the Middle East who believe that any peace between these peoples is a travesty that must be rectified at any cost, and that as a principal player in the creation of the new state, Ayesha Ryder must be eliminated, and her work completely discredited, with extreme prejudice.
So Ayesha is hunting the Ark, because she is still following Lawrence’s trail. Agents of chaos are following her, murdering anyone who might have information on the Washington treasure and framing Ayesha for their crimes. Their actions are an attempt both to discredit her work and legacy and to make her vulnerable to capture and possibly murder by unwitting police on the trail of a fugitive terrorist.
In another breakneck, cross-country, overnight chase, Ayesha hunts the Ark, while enemies hunt her for revenge. And because they think the Washington treasure will determine the outcome of the next U.S. election in their favor.
When all hunts find themselves converging on the same location, the resulting explosion of information, as well as the riot of bullets, is cataclysmic.
Escape Rating A-: I enjoyed the thrill of American Treasure every bit as much as the first book in the series. However, I will also confess that I could see a bit of formula emerging, and while it's a formula I liked a lot, it wasn’t quite as fresh as the first book.
But for anyone who likes their thrillers with a DaVinci Code twist, this series is fantastic so far.
One of the things that I love about this series so far is the way that the author hangs the puzzle on real historical events, even if, or possibly because, he stretches the historical ambiguities out into modern-day treasure hunts.
Also, the central figure in much of the history is T.E. Lawrence, who in real life was every bit as fascinating as the author makes him. Lawrence really was involved in a lot of world-shaking events during his life, and there are still mysteries surrounding his death. Ayesha’s continued adulation and hero-worship is not just interesting, but even a reasonable place to start her adventures. A great deal of early 20th century history really does relate to Lawrence in some way.
One of the more twisty things about this series is that the author has chosen to make Ayesha, a former Palestinian terrorist, the protagonist and heroine. The villains are often the Israelis. This choice sets a lot of assumptions on their heads for a lot of people, including this reader. I find Ayesha to be a sympathetic character, while at the same time finding the portrayal of the Israelis as mostly unrelenting baddies to be uncomfortable. Which is often the point of good fiction.
I will say that Ayesha, while her ability to “take a licking and keep on ticking” may be necessary for the speed of the plot, is in danger of becoming a cardboard cutout of the female action hero. I love the idea of a take-charge woman moving the action forward and being the center of the story, but she’s just a bit too good (and indestructible) to maintain belief if she keeps taking this many hits in continuing overnight treasure hunts. For me to continue to feel for her, she needs to feel something more.
Still, if you enjoy wild thrill rides of stories, Ryder: An Ayesha Ryder Novel and Ryder: American Treasure, are both winners.
If Lara Croft (Tomb Raider) and Indiana Jones had a love child, it would be Ayesha Ryder. After her first hair-raising adventure (Ryder, reviewed here) Ayesha is still following T.E. Lawrence’s clues to where he hid the Ark of the Covenant.
And yes, that’s the same Ark that Indy found. In a different continuum. It’s still just as awe-inspiring in this story as it was in the movie, and very nearly as deadly. But unlike the movie, this Ark isn’t spewing death all on its own - it’s the human agents that either want to exploit or suppress it who kill.
The Ark isn’t even their focus. There are, as always, lots of bad people after Ryder. But this time, they are following her as she searches for a treasure she doesn’t even care about. In this slightly alternate history, the two contenders for the American presidency want her to chase down the treasure looted from the White House in 1814 when the British took Washington in the War of 1812.
President James Madison, best known to history as Dolley Madison’s husband, supposedly left a clue in his old desk - a letter that named the traitor in his government. By the time the war ended, Madison’s term was nearly over, the British were gone, and the matter was hushed up. But in Ryder’s 21st century, the candidates both want the clue, in the hope of either hushing it up or publicizing it. One of those candidates is a direct descendant of Madison, who does not want his name blackened by association.
So the treasure that Ayesha is hunting for could easily have been part of the movie National Treasure.
After the events in Ryder, Ayesha’s world has gone on a slightly different course than our own in one very important aspect. The Israelis and the Palestinians have not merely made peace, but have banded together to create a single country in the territories belonging to Israel and the Palestinian authority. That new country has been named “The Holy Land”.
While most of the world is grateful to have that war-torn area finally at peace, there are forces in both America and the Middle East who believe that any peace between these peoples is a travesty that must be rectified at any cost, and that as a principal player in the creation of the new state, Ayesha Ryder must be eliminated, and her work completely discredited, with extreme prejudice.
So Ayesha is hunting the Ark, because she is still following Lawrence’s trail. Agents of chaos are following her, murdering anyone who might have information on the Washington treasure and framing Ayesha for their crimes. Their actions are an attempt both to discredit her work and legacy and to make her vulnerable to capture and possibly murder by unwitting police on the trail of a fugitive terrorist.
In another breakneck, cross-country, overnight chase, Ayesha hunts the Ark, while enemies hunt her for revenge. And because they think the Washington treasure will determine the outcome of the next U.S. election in their favor.
When all hunts find themselves converging on the same location, the resulting explosion of information, as well as the riot of bullets, is cataclysmic.
Escape Rating A-: I enjoyed the thrill of American Treasure every bit as much as the first book in the series. However, I will also confess that I could see a bit of formula emerging, and while it's a formula I liked a lot, it wasn’t quite as fresh as the first book.
But for anyone who likes their thrillers with a DaVinci Code twist, this series is fantastic so far.
One of the things that I love about this series so far is the way that the author hangs the puzzle on real historical events, even if, or possibly because, he stretches the historical ambiguities out into modern-day treasure hunts.
Also, the central figure in much of the history is T.E. Lawrence, who in real life was every bit as fascinating as the author makes him. Lawrence really was involved in a lot of world-shaking events during his life, and there are still mysteries surrounding his death. Ayesha’s continued adulation and hero-worship is not just interesting, but even a reasonable place to start her adventures. A great deal of early 20th century history really does relate to Lawrence in some way.
One of the more twisty things about this series is that the author has chosen to make Ayesha, a former Palestinian terrorist, the protagonist and heroine. The villains are often the Israelis. This choice sets a lot of assumptions on their heads for a lot of people, including this reader. I find Ayesha to be a sympathetic character, while at the same time finding the portrayal of the Israelis as mostly unrelenting baddies to be uncomfortable. Which is often the point of good fiction.
I will say that Ayesha, while her ability to “take a licking and keep on ticking” may be necessary for the speed of the plot, is in danger of becoming a cardboard cutout of the female action hero. I love the idea of a take-charge woman moving the action forward and being the center of the story, but she’s just a bit too good (and indestructible) to maintain belief if she keeps taking this many hits in continuing overnight treasure hunts. For me to continue to feel for her, she needs to feel something more.
Still, if you enjoy wild thrill rides of stories, Ryder: An Ayesha Ryder Novel and Ryder: American Treasure, are both winners.
February 18, 2021
I enjoyed it
Alesha is a little too James Bond for me but I enjoyed the story. Just enough history to keep me interested, enough plot twists to make it likable. Not bad, I'll try to look for more of Mr. Pengelley.
Alesha is a little too James Bond for me but I enjoyed the story. Just enough history to keep me interested, enough plot twists to make it likable. Not bad, I'll try to look for more of Mr. Pengelley.
February 10, 2015
Last October I reviewed the first Ayesha Ryder novel, appropriately called Ryder. I really enjoyed this Dan Brown-esque tale with a strong political flavour. So I was really pleased to be able to review the second book as well. Ryder: American Treasure is set six months after the first book and is very much a tale in the same vein as the first, a thrilling treasure hunt, following clues left behind by some of the great figures of history. Yet there were also some very big differences to the first novel.
First of all, there is Ayesha herself. While still the erudite scholar and researcher she was in the previous book and very much as capable as ever, she’s also gained a new vulnerability and seems somewhat more troubled than she was before, mostly due to the fact that the walls she’s built around her past self and the memories that belong with that life have started crumbling. Her memories are rearing their ugly heads, but they are not just awakening old grief and guilt in Ayesha, they are also rousing a side to her that has lain dormant for years; the cold-blooded, unflinching, and ruthless Fedayeen, who kills without thought on training and instinct. It made her less-polished and darker than she was previously.
Secondly, Ryder: American Treasure is far more R-rated than the previous book; there are some hot and heavy scenes in there. A liaison between two unexpected, political figures, but also between Ayesha and her sidekick for this book journalist Milton Hoenig, the latter pairing having a very fun dynamic, that hopefully we will see again. The scenes are not necessarily problematic, but they were somewhat unexpected in comparison to the previous book, which didn’t contain any racy stuff. Lastly, instead of one quarry, Ayesha has two treasures to find: the Ark and the American Treasure. I liked how Pengelley interweaves the trails of both hunts and creates some unexpected connections in their stories.
The political focus of the narrative is still on the Middle East and how much events there have influenced politics and history and still do. For the record, after last book’s events, the world Ryder is set in is more of an alternative history than a contemporary thriller. Pengelley manages to insert some very pointed commentary in his narrative though, showing how influential US politics are on the world and how much the outcome of American presidential elections affect the rest of the world. He also injects some levity in the novel. At one point he has one of his characters reading the latest Dan Brown, which I found hilarious. And there are several instances where Ayesha decides on what to do next and Hoenig starts groaning in protest before she’s even opened her mouth, which was funny as well, especially since it is essentially a role reversal from the usual action thriller, with Ayesha being the competent action hero and Hoenig being her sidekick.
Unexpectedly, T.E. Lawrence still looms large in the story. He is the backbone of the historical elements of the story, connected to all of them either directly or at a remove. I love how Pengelley manages to find holes in history to fit in his plot and hide clues and events. His love of history, the Interbellum period in particular, is clear on the page. He also manages to make me want to read up on the history of the era, something that to me hallmarks a successful historical element to a story, even if this isn’t necessarily a historical thriller.
Pengelley ends the book on a satisfying note and with a nice hook for the next novel. I look forward to discovering how Pengelley will develop Ayesha’s character and how her emerging memories affect her in the next book. And I look forward to learning whether her sidekick shows up again and whether we see more of the brilliant Lady Madrigal. If you like no-holds-barred, pulse-pounding thrillers with a historical slant then the Ryder series is one you won’t want to miss. I’ll be here for the next one.
This book was provided for review by the publisher as part of a blog tour.
First of all, there is Ayesha herself. While still the erudite scholar and researcher she was in the previous book and very much as capable as ever, she’s also gained a new vulnerability and seems somewhat more troubled than she was before, mostly due to the fact that the walls she’s built around her past self and the memories that belong with that life have started crumbling. Her memories are rearing their ugly heads, but they are not just awakening old grief and guilt in Ayesha, they are also rousing a side to her that has lain dormant for years; the cold-blooded, unflinching, and ruthless Fedayeen, who kills without thought on training and instinct. It made her less-polished and darker than she was previously.
Secondly, Ryder: American Treasure is far more R-rated than the previous book; there are some hot and heavy scenes in there. A liaison between two unexpected, political figures, but also between Ayesha and her sidekick for this book journalist Milton Hoenig, the latter pairing having a very fun dynamic, that hopefully we will see again. The scenes are not necessarily problematic, but they were somewhat unexpected in comparison to the previous book, which didn’t contain any racy stuff. Lastly, instead of one quarry, Ayesha has two treasures to find: the Ark and the American Treasure. I liked how Pengelley interweaves the trails of both hunts and creates some unexpected connections in their stories.
The political focus of the narrative is still on the Middle East and how much events there have influenced politics and history and still do. For the record, after last book’s events, the world Ryder is set in is more of an alternative history than a contemporary thriller. Pengelley manages to insert some very pointed commentary in his narrative though, showing how influential US politics are on the world and how much the outcome of American presidential elections affect the rest of the world. He also injects some levity in the novel. At one point he has one of his characters reading the latest Dan Brown, which I found hilarious. And there are several instances where Ayesha decides on what to do next and Hoenig starts groaning in protest before she’s even opened her mouth, which was funny as well, especially since it is essentially a role reversal from the usual action thriller, with Ayesha being the competent action hero and Hoenig being her sidekick.
Unexpectedly, T.E. Lawrence still looms large in the story. He is the backbone of the historical elements of the story, connected to all of them either directly or at a remove. I love how Pengelley manages to find holes in history to fit in his plot and hide clues and events. His love of history, the Interbellum period in particular, is clear on the page. He also manages to make me want to read up on the history of the era, something that to me hallmarks a successful historical element to a story, even if this isn’t necessarily a historical thriller.
Pengelley ends the book on a satisfying note and with a nice hook for the next novel. I look forward to discovering how Pengelley will develop Ayesha’s character and how her emerging memories affect her in the next book. And I look forward to learning whether her sidekick shows up again and whether we see more of the brilliant Lady Madrigal. If you like no-holds-barred, pulse-pounding thrillers with a historical slant then the Ryder series is one you won’t want to miss. I’ll be here for the next one.
This book was provided for review by the publisher as part of a blog tour.
February 11, 2018
2 1/2 stars. I am such a huge fan of the first Ayesha Ryder novel that I almost feel bad saying this one was just okay, instead of amazing like the first novel was. Unfortunately I did not find this one as interesting, but by saying that I still feel like I need to say it's still a good book. Pengelley does a great job of advancing Ayesha as a character, from the first book into this one, with her own past actions always on her mind. The reader can tell that what happened in the first book still weighs on her greatly, and her continued characterization is excellent.
The issue I had with this one was that I felt like the plot was not as strong. Pengelley did an excellent job of weaving the story in the first book through Ayesha's POV and showing how it effected her. This story was good, it just did not have the same intensity as the first one did, maybe because it was not directly linked to Ayesha's story in the same way the previous one was.
Nevertheless this was still a good book, and I look forward to reading more of her adventures. Ayesha is a very strong female protagonist and her determination is not something you usually find in this type of story. On another note, I felt like this book could have done with a few more revisions for editing purposes. This was still a good book and I look forward to reading more Ayesha Ryder stories.
The issue I had with this one was that I felt like the plot was not as strong. Pengelley did an excellent job of weaving the story in the first book through Ayesha's POV and showing how it effected her. This story was good, it just did not have the same intensity as the first one did, maybe because it was not directly linked to Ayesha's story in the same way the previous one was.
Nevertheless this was still a good book, and I look forward to reading more of her adventures. Ayesha is a very strong female protagonist and her determination is not something you usually find in this type of story. On another note, I felt like this book could have done with a few more revisions for editing purposes. This was still a good book and I look forward to reading more Ayesha Ryder stories.
January 21, 2015
I initially had trouble getting into the book. The characters that drew me in were not the main ones and I struggled to relate to them. That being said, the last third of the book, I was completely consumed and read it in one sitting without interruption. I was a little disappointed that after Ayesha found A SPOILER we didn’t have more time to see her reaction and follow up with it, but the events that happened afterward were a bit of a bonus. I thought the story was going to end, but there was much more!
I enjoyed that there were a lot of twists and turns in the plot. There were definitely some things in the book I didn’t see coming and that kept it interesting. I think devotee mystery readers will LOVE this book; it just wasn’t the perfect book for me.
Warning: Contains violence and some sexual content
Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review courtesy of TLC Book Tours.
Who should read it? Mystery fans looking for a Dan Brown inspired story
See all reviews, giveaways and more at www.ReadingToDistraction.com or @Read2Distract
I enjoyed that there were a lot of twists and turns in the plot. There were definitely some things in the book I didn’t see coming and that kept it interesting. I think devotee mystery readers will LOVE this book; it just wasn’t the perfect book for me.
Warning: Contains violence and some sexual content
Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review courtesy of TLC Book Tours.
Who should read it? Mystery fans looking for a Dan Brown inspired story
See all reviews, giveaways and more at www.ReadingToDistraction.com or @Read2Distract
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