Review of The Conscripted Extremist

Post by **Onyinyechi Obi** » 19 Jun 2024, 01:29

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross.]

5 out of 5 stars

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Working with secret government agencies can be a bit nuanced, as Gabe soon discovers in this engaging political thriller. What starts as a simple assignment to gather basic information quickly spirals into a more complicated series of exciting and dangerous events. "The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross examines the political landscape of modern-day America, the intricacies of left-wing and right-wing ideologies, government agencies, and the blurry lines between honesty and deception.

Our protagonist, Gabriel Bentley, or Gabe for short, is beaten and blackmailed by Smith and Jones, members of the Department of Homeland Security, into trying to obtain information about the leadership of the left-wing movement from a group of four individuals named Tall Alex, Short Alex, Justin, and Peter. Gabe had two friends who were very close to him, named Jasminn and Matt. Jasminn was an organizer of a non-violent left-wing protest group. On first impression, Gabe wasn't convinced whether any of the four men he was to spy on seriously knew anything about any sort of leadership of the left-wingers, but as time went on, Gabe discovered a lot of secret things he had no idea he would discover—secret things much bigger and more dangerous than the perceived threats of left-wing leaders.

Political intrigue appears to be one of the most dominant themes in the book. Ross's novel provides a very detailed exploration of the complex and often contentious political climate in America. The story puts together various political ideologies, government agencies, and extremist groups. Through Gabe's experiences, the author sheds light on the tensions and contradictions that underlie political discourse, revealing how individuals and organizations can become deeply entrenched in their beliefs and willing to take drastic actions to further their agendas. This theme encouraged readers to examine their biases towards these political groups, whether left-wing or right-wing. Power struggles as a theme is also nicely explored by the author. Characters like Harry Einner, the senator, and Tall Alex seek to further their agendas, often through violent means. The aforementioned characters would stop at nothing until they achieved their goals. These characters embody the darker aspects of ambition, revealing the destructive consequences of unchecked power and the willingness to exploit and harm others for personal gain. Ross shows how the lust for power can lead individuals and organizations to engage in violent and oppressive tactics, undermining democratic values and threatening the very fabric of society. It was exceptionally well edited.

The plot is primarily set in New York City, America, during the post-COVID-19 pandemic period. The book is fast-paced and interesting—one of those you don't want to drop the moment you begin. I would recommend this book to lovers of suspense-filled narratives, those who love political thrillers, and general fans of a delightful novel. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5. I read this book twice because of how engaging it was, and I can honestly say that everything was spot on; there is nothing to dislike.

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The Conscripted Extremist
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Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 27 Feb 2025, 05:37

I enjoyed the reviewers detailed description of the book. The first few pages start with a bang, with conflicts between left and right political civilians. It looks like a fast paced and breathless read.

kashala · Post by **kashala** » 27 Feb 2025, 05:38

"Ross shows how the lust for power can lead individuals and organizations to engage in violent and oppressive tactics, undermining democratic values and threatening the very fabric of society. " Wow! The novel is interesting.....
Wonderful review.

Leen282 · Post by **Leen282** » 27 Feb 2025, 05:53

I have read a few books I decided to re-read as soon as I finished. I love that the reviewer felt like reading this book twice. I am intrigued by the politics, the extremes from both right and left, and the contradictions in the political discourse. This will be a book I can enjoy.

Amos Osinya · Post by **Amos Osinya** » 27 Feb 2025, 06:03

An engaging review about Gabriel Bentley's investigation into the activities of the Left Wing Leaders. A political masterpiece and one that includes the work of the detective makes this book to stand out. Am interested in following up on what really happened to Gabe and how his investigation ended up like considering the matter turned out to be more complex and dangerous as noted in the review

Post by **Alida Spies** » 27 Feb 2025, 06:04

With all the political upheaval post the election of Pres. Trump, this book could not have been selected for Book of the Day at a better time! Examining the political landscape of modern-day America, the intricacies of left-wing and right-wing ideologies, government agencies, and the blurry lines between honesty and deception are very topical at present. Being beaten and blackmailed by any government agency must be very scary - who do you go to for help? Politicians worldwide seem to act in a similar manner, i.e. be focused on furthering their own agendas. Thank you for your informative review.

Post by **Mr Benj** » 27 Feb 2025, 06:08

"The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross, a book that features secret service, government, and politics. It is an interesting book to read. It will be interesting to read about how Gabe overcame the blackmail and attacks.

Fredrick Nundu · Post by **Fredrick Nundu** » 27 Feb 2025, 06:55

The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross is a gripping political thriller that delves into the murky world of government conspiracies and extremist ideologies. The story follows Gabe Bentley, a young lawyer coerced by government agents to infiltrate left-wing activists and uncover their leaders. As Gabe navigates dangerous situations and shifting allegiances, he must determine who to trust while protecting his friends and himself. The novel explores themes of political intrigue, power struggles, and moral dilemmas, offering readers a thought-provoking and suspenseful narrative. Ross's detailed portrayal of the complex political landscape makes this book a compelling read.

Lauren Stjohn · Post by **Lauren Stjohn** » 27 Feb 2025, 07:01

Amazing review detailing all the intricacies of the story. All pressure is generated from the emotion of fear. The book seems to surround all the adverse results of fear. The reviewer has highlighted the suspense of the author's story of terror, blackmail, and suspense enough to tickle the reader's interest. I will engage in the discovery of Gabe's adventure.

Post by **Seetha E** » 27 Feb 2025, 07:07

Marc Ross's novel explores the political landscape of modern-day America. The protagonist, Gabriel, is blackmailed to obtain information about four individuals. Gabe's dangerous findings hint at a different threat level. Power struggles and soulless means to further their agendas, even if it resorts to violent means, sounds like a worthwhile read. Adding this one to my reading list. Thank you for your comprehensive review!

Nerea · Post by **Nerea** » 27 Feb 2025, 07:09

A fast-paced and interesting political thriller seems to be a great read. Who is Gabriel, aka Gabe? And why was he blackmailed? I would love to find out. Additionally, looking into the political landscape of the modern-day America sounds adventurous and eye opening.

Post by **Ukaegbu Confidence** » 27 Feb 2025, 08:14

"The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross is the political thriller of the ages. This book will keep your interest with its themes of politics, blackmail, suspense, and more.

SophiaNd · Post by **SophiaNd** » 27 Feb 2025, 08:23

"The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross is a gripping political thriller that delves into the murky world of secret government operations and ideological extremism, where protagonist Gabe Bentley is forced to navigate a web of deception and danger.

Love Ukaegbu · Post by **Love Ukaegbu** » 27 Feb 2025, 08:39

"The Conscripted Extremist" by A. Marc Ross is a fascinating blend of politics and crime, featuring secret agents and government officials. It is undoubtedly an interesting read, and I look forward to it. Congratulations on the book of the day.

Post by **Supritika Ghatak** » 27 Feb 2025, 09:03

A. Marc Ross's The Conscripted Extremist is a gripping political thriller where lawyer Gabe Bentley is forced to infiltrate revolutionary groups. He needs to defend himself amidst deception and changing loyalties, besides fighting power struggles, hidden agendas, and moral dilemmas.