Official Review: One Day in Lebanon by Lawrence Scofield

[Cecilia_L]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "One Day in Lebanon" by Lawrence Scofield.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Inspired by the 1988 kidnapping of U.S. Marine Colonel William Higgins, the historical fiction novel One Day in Lebanon: A Hostage Rescue is the third book in the Laura Messier Files series by Lawrence Scofield.

En route from a secret meeting with Syrian President Assad, two American diplomats are kidnapped. CIA Associate Director Steven Tilton travels to the Bahamas to request the assistance of former CIA operative Laura Messier, who also happens to be his ex-wife. Despite her personal differences with Steve, Laura agrees. She and her business partner, former French Intelligence Jean Broussard select a highly qualified team including a retired CIA field agent, a former marine officer, and an ex-military Lebanon expert. After investigating, the team's suspicions that the hostage location may be across the border in Lebanon, are confirmed by satellite surveillance. A Presidential Finding is issued by the White House engaging a covert military hostage rescue mission by Laura and her team, but will it be too late?

The book is well written, professionally edited, thoroughly researched, and supported by a cast of multilayered characters. I particularly like the inclusion of a strong female protagonist. Laura is not only part of the team, but she is also the leader. Though considered beautiful, Laura is described as smart, confident, authoritative, and brave. However, she wrestles with her fair share of inner demons adding depth to her character and making her more relatable to readers.

Despite the author's meticulous attention to detail in most aspects of the book, I found it curious that he selected the same first name for two of the characters. While Jack Mason is a retired CIA agent and Jack Postl is a computer expert, both are employed by Laura. When Mason is referred to as "Jack" in one paragraph, and then immediately addresses Postl by his first name, it's confusing, to say the least. Given the complicated plot, and since there are quite a few characters to keep straight, it's hard to understand why the author didn't choose a different name to avoid potential confusion. Even so, this issue didn't detract from my overall reading enjoyment.

I'm pleased to rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. Though the third book in the series, it easily stands on its own. Readers who haven't read the previous books can delve into it without experiencing any gaps in the plot. However, they may prefer to add the entire series to their reading lists once they've enjoyed this one. Due to profanity and plot-related violence, it is intended for a mature audience. I recommend the book to fans of historical fiction and espionage. It will also appeal to readers who appreciate plots featuring strong female characters.

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One Day in Lebanon
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[Rafaella Michailidou]

This is not a book I would read as I find their plots usually confusing and tiring but I'm glad you enjoyed it. It is truly peculiar that the author chose to name two characters "Jack" for no particular reason I suppose. This fact would make things even more confusing to me. Thank you for your review, I've read many of your previous reviews, you do a great job.

[Cecilia_L]

This is not a book I would read as I find their plots usually confusing and tiring but I'm glad you enjoyed it. It is truly peculiar that the author chose to name two characters "Jack" for no particular reason I suppose. This fact would make things even more confusing to me. Thank you for your review, I've read many of your previous reviews, you do a great job.

Thanks for your kind comment.

[Bianka Walter]

I've seen it happen more and more in books where the author decides to give two characters the same name. I find it odd. Even though it's something that can happen in real life, it makes a fictional story more confusing. Well, it seems that this book more than made up for it with the great storyline

[Cecilia_L]

I've seen it happen more and more in books where the author decides to give two characters the same name. I find it odd. Even though it's something that can happen in real life, it makes a fictional story more confusing. Well, it seems that this book more than made up for it with the great storyline

Bianka, I had the same thought about real-life names but as you stated, it does add confusion in a fiction story. Thanks for your comment.

[kdstrack]

This historical fiction intrigues me. I like your recommendations and the professional editing is another bit plus. Your writing is so interesting to read. Thanks for a well-written review.

[Cecilia_L]

This historical fiction intrigues me. I like your recommendations and the professional editing is another bit plus. Your writing is so interesting to read. Thanks for a well-written review.

Thanks for stopping by and for your kind comment.

[sarahmarlowe randomeducator]

This book sounds fascinating. I have not heard of this series before, but it sounds like something I would be interested in reading. Are all of the books based on actual events?

By the way, I always enjoy your reviews! They are so thorough, covering everything I look for in a review. Thanks!

[Cecilia_L]

This book sounds fascinating. I have not heard of this series before, but it sounds like something I would be interested in reading. Are all of the books based on actual events?

By the way, I always enjoy your reviews! They are so thorough, covering everything I look for in a review. Thanks!

Sarah, this was the first book I read in the series, so I'm not sure if the others are also inspired by true events. I was impressed by the author's research. Thanks for your kind comment.

[Itskai88]

This is not a book i would ordinarily pick up, but i am interested in the fact that you mentioned strong female characters. I appreciate your review so, thank you.

[kandscreeley]

The name confusion would be irritating. That's such an easy thing to fix. All in all, this book really doesn't appeal to me. I just can't picture reading it. Thanks, though.

[Faithmwangi]

"Though considered beautiful, Laura is described as smart, confident, authoritative, and brave."
The moment I read these words, I paused mid reading and thought to myself, wow, such strong words to describe such a strong lady. Something within me moved and I wished the same could be said about me one day. I also liked the fact that Laura is battling her own issues, clearly showing that even as the best versions of ourselves we have moments of weakness. I like the espionage plot which sounds to be full of twists. I look forward to reading this book.

[Fu Zaila]

Perhaps the author wanted to make her book even more realistic by including common names for two of her characters? Since you mention it doesn't hinder with your reading experience, I'd say she succeeded. Laura seems to be a potent leader and very intriguing character. Great review!

[Cecilia_L]

This is not a book i would ordinarily pick up, but i am interested in the fact that you mentioned strong female characters. I appreciate your review so, thank you.

Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your comment.

[Cecilia_L]

The name confusion would be irritating. That's such an easy thing to fix. All in all, this book really doesn't appeal to me. I just can't picture reading it. Thanks, though.

Thanks for your comment.