🕶️ Book Review: Directive One by Scott Shinberg
A high-octane espionage thriller where a CIA operative must choose between rescue and assassination—Book 2 in the Michelle Reagan series.
Scott Shinberg’s Directive One continues the gripping saga of Michelle Reagan, code name Eden, a covert CIA agent navigating the murky world of international espionage. With a strong Goodreads rating of 4.2/5, the novel is praised for its intense action, realistic tradecraft, and a heroine who balances lethal skill with emotional depth.
🧠 Plot Overview
The unthinkable happens: the CIA Director and his wife are kidnapped mid-flight over Florida. With no clues and no ransom demands, the Agency is in chaos. Michelle Reagan is tasked with leading an elite team of U.S. Navy SEALs on a high-risk mission to rescue them from a heavily fortified military base halfway around the world.
But there’s a catch—if the rescue fails, Michelle must enact Directive One, a top-secret protocol that could change everything. As the mission unfolds, Michelle faces impossible choices, deadly enemies, and the haunting weight of her own conscience.
💬 Why Readers Love It
- Strong Female Lead: Michelle Reagan is a powerhouse—tough, smart, and emotionally layered.
- Authentic Spycraft: Shinberg’s background knowledge adds realism to the covert operations and tactical planning.
- Fast-Paced Action: From hijacked planes to military assaults, the tension never lets up.
- Moral Complexity: The Directive One protocol introduces a chilling ethical dilemma that elevates the stakes.
📣 Critical Praise
“A well-paced thriller not to be missed… Michelle Reagan is a powerful and capable heroine who avoids genre clichés.” — Readers’ Favorite
“Perfect for fans of Tom Clancy, Robert Ludlum, and Andy McNab.” — Evolved Pub
🏁 Final Verdict
Directive One is a riveting spy thriller that blends pulse-pounding action with psychological depth. If you enjoy espionage stories with elite operatives, global stakes, and ethical gray zones, this installment will keep you turning pages late into the night.