Review of Waterworks

Jenna Padayachee · Post by **Jenna Padayachee** » 08 Nov 2023, 07:41

This final book sounds interesting, as have the few reviews I have read concerning the other books in this series. Thank you for the details, they are well-rounded. It's nice to know that although Uri and Lara developed in their relationship throughout the book series, these books could still be read as a stand-alone if needed.

Yvonne Oloo · Post by **Yvonne Oloo** » 08 Nov 2023, 07:42

Thanks for a great review. I have come to like how Jack Winnick builds the suspense and tension in his books. Your mention of Lara and Uri working at strategic departments within the Iranian military fills me with a sense of dread, knowing how lethal and cruel the Iranian terrorists can get. The Iranian Jihadists, on their side, were very meticulous in planning the attacks. I would like to see how the plot unfolds in this one, as it looks like a must read for me.

Mercy Wambui Ndungu · Post by **Mercy Wambui Ndungu** » 08 Nov 2023, 07:49

John Owen wrote: ↑09 Oct 2023, 23:55 [Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Waterworks" by Jack Winnick.]

5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review

After the polonium attack at the Los Angeles Aqueduct Filtration Plant by Iranian terrorists, agents Lara Edmond and Uri Levin were summoned and given an assignment by the Department of Homeland Security to infiltrate Iranian military intelligence in anticipation of another attack. They would both seek employment in strategic positions in Tehran, under false identities and modified facial features, with Lara as Daria Haddad and Uri as Heydar al-Nabi. Lara got a job as a cryptologist for General Gharoub and was transferred to "the Castle," which was the command center for Iranian military operations, especially the planned jihad attack on American waterways, which they called "Project Neptune." Uri, on the other hand, was contracted as an IT specialist at the Ministry of Defense Auxiliary. This was all made possible by an inside job from undercover agents and coordination with Homeland Security under Tom Buckley. Their main role was disinformation, leading the Iranians to attack certain points, hence leading them to a trap, while also feeding intelligence from Iranian operations back home. However, there were so many things that put their entire mission in jeopardy, including the imminence of detection and betrayal from double agents. Would they pull it off? Grab a copy of the book for a suspense-filled counterterrorism thriller.

I had come to know of Jack Winnick's works sometime last year when one of his books was featured as the "Book of the Day" on Onlinebookclub.org, and I purchased the first three installments in the series. From a handful of reviews, his reputation preceded him, and I wasn't disappointed. It was a welcome surprise to find a review opportunity for the last two installments. Like the previous books, the focus of the story is on the heroic secret agents Lara and Uri, now a married couple. It was nice to see it connect to the previous books but still be standalone. Jack Winnick's series is among the best I've read in this genre, with this last installment being the "grand finale." Even though I had a few minor reservations, this book was just as intense and enjoyable as the previous ones. It is amazing how Winnick is good at putting his best into each of his books.

Throughout this series, I've continually rooted for Lara and Uri. I'm so glad they had other characters like Tom from Homeland Security who did so too. While I knew something about Tala was off, I was frustrated when Uri totally failed to see through her veil for what she really was. It was pretty obvious from the onset that she had some mischief up her sleeves. However, Uri's trust in his hosts totally blinded him, which constantly put their entire mission at risk. On the other hand, I was impressed at how careful and cautious Lara was. She always had her guard up and ensured she boarded and alighted in different places to and from her undercover job to avoid detection. They both made a great team, both as a couple and colleagues.

However, the pacing in the parts where Lara and Uri were doing their undercover assignments seemed to drag on for me. I think it's because the author put every effort into detailing all activities as they were. While the amount of detail was impressive, it felt like it lacked the action I had already gotten used to until then. The ending also felt somewhat abrupt to me. I know it may be in part due to the sad feeling of an amazing book eventually ending, but I also think the author didn't take his time to end the book well. I wish I knew if Lara and Uri eventually had a baby, but sadly, this is the last book. These were the only areas I had second thoughts about, but they were not significant enough to affect my overall enjoyment.

I will definitely be looking for more books by Jack Winnick, but this is a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. Its overall excellent quality, despite the areas mentioned above, makes it worthy of the perfect score. If you are a fan of CIA, FBI secret operations-like plots, especially with counterterrorism, Waterworks is for you.

******
Waterworks
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and review of Jack Winnick's book "Waterworks." It's clear that you've enjoyed the story and appreciated the author's writing style. Your detailed analysis provides valuable insights for potential readers who may be interested in this book.

It's interesting to see how you've connected with the characters, especially Lara and Uri, and how you rooted for them throughout the series. Their roles as secret agents in a suspenseful and high-stakes plot make for an engaging narrative.

Your observations about the pacing and level of detail in some parts of the story are helpful feedback for those considering reading the book. Different readers have varying preferences when it comes to pacing and level of detail, so your insights can help them decide if this book aligns with their tastes.

The fact that the ending left you wanting more is a testament to the author's ability to draw you into the story and characters. It's always a bittersweet feeling when a great series comes to an end.

Clare Jose · Post by **Clare Jose** » 08 Nov 2023, 07:56

Crime fiction is not my favourite genre but ever since I've been on OBC, I've only ever heard good things about the Lara and Uri series. I prefer to read books in order, so I'll have to read the rest of the books in the series before I can give this one a go.
Thank you for your review!

María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda · 08 Nov 2023, 08:06

Jack Winnick seems to be the master of writing about terrorism and counterterrorism, and I think Lara and Uri make for an unforgettable pair. I'm glad the series got a great closure.

Brienna Cooper · Post by **Brienna Cooper** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:10

Wonderful review! As I’ve stated with every other book in this series that’s been BOTD (which I’d like to believe speaks to their quality), this definitely has my interest and is on my radar. So, it’s kind of odd to come to the final book, as I think I started expecting to continue seeing these titles in this manner. Perhaps, this is my signal to go ahead and start reading them LOL. Kudos to the author for (another) BOTD as well as a grand finale!

Side note- I appreciate the author’s note at the beginning of the book pointing out that while the story is fictional, the science used within the plot is very much rooted in reality. What a way to give the reader some chills and thrills!

Post by **Sakshi A Soni** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:27

Thank you

for sharing your thoughtful review of "Waterworks" by Jack Winnick. It's evident that you've been following the series closely and have a genuine appreciation for the characters and the author's storytelling. Your praise for the author's ability to create intense and enjoyable narratives is well-deserved, and it's wonderful to hear that you've been a fan of the series.

Your feedback on the pacing and the ending is valuable and provides a balanced perspective on the book. It's clear that your passion for the characters, especially Lara and Uri, adds depth to your reading experience. We appreciate your insightful review, and it's clear that "Waterworks" has left a lasting impression. Your perfect score and recommendation will surely encourage others to explore this thrilling counterterrorism thriller. Happy reading, and may you continue to discover more captivating stories by Jack Winnick in the future!

Hazel Arnaiz · Post by **Hazel Arnaiz** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:28

In this fifth installment of the international espionage series, terrorism spreads discreetly but quickly by targeting metropolitan water supply systems. Before another water supply facility gets compromised, Lara and Uri must catch the culprits.

Eliud Sirima · Post by **Eliud Sirima** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:30

I like how the book portrays the characters of Lara and Uri, who are brave, smart, and loyal to each other. I admire their skills and dedication as agents and I enjoy their chemistry and humor as a couple. Great review!!

Ganeefa Karan · Post by **Ganeefa Karan** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:30

Although I am a fan of CIA, FBI secret operations-like plots and counterterrorism, I feel like the entire series was designed to promote Islamophobia, which is really disheartening.

Post by **Seetha E** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:33

The plot of this book appears to be highly captivating, with terrorism via water, a basic necessity, and the Lara Uri team to counter it. This is a fantastic review. I enjoy a good crime and mystery novel. Congrats to the author on winning BOTD!

Post by **Risper Ouma Anyango** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:39

It's my first time to come across this book. Lara and Uri seem like quite big stars and from the looks of it, Jack Wannick is a great author who has written amazing books like this one. I look forward to reading this book.

RJ Reviews · Post by **RJ Reviews** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:52

Lara and Uri continue to amaze us! This installment sounds extremely thrilling with the theme of counter-terrorism that is trademark of this series. These undercover agents are my favorite so far and I am a little sad that their story comes to an end with this book. Congrats on BOTD!
The review is so detailed that it presented a good overview of the book. It discusses the plot without any spoilers and that is no easy job. It certainly makes the book sound interesting and thrilling. Thank you!

Devesh Patel · Post by **Devesh Patel** » 08 Nov 2023, 08:53

Great review! The series and this book seem compelling, but it's still not for me.It sounds like "Waterworks" offers a thrilling experience for readers who enjoy espionage and counterterrorism stories.

Timothy Rucinski · Post by **Timothy Rucinski** » 08 Nov 2023, 09:04

The Lara and Uri series of novels is a terrific collection of books for anyone who enjoys international intrigue, the machinations of the world of spies and counterspies, and good old-fashioned cops and robbers. Now a married couple, the empathy and deep love that Lara and Uri have for one another are amplified when each of them, while placed in harm's way, must concentrate on the job at hand, uncertain of the success or danger faced by the other.