The Tehran Initiative by Joel C. Rosenberg is a gripping, action-packed thriller that picks up where The Twelfth Imam left off. In this book, things are even more intense as Iran conducts its first atomic weapons test, setting off a chain of events that could change the world as we know it.
Millions of Muslims believe their long-awaited messiah, the “Twelfth Imam,” has arrived, sending shockwaves across the globe. Israeli leaders fear that Iran, under the influence of the Twelfth Imam, might launch a devastating nuclear attack.
The president orders CIA agent David Shirazi to sabotage Iran’s nuclear warheads before Iran or Israel can launch a devastating first strike. The consequences of such a move could be catastrophic, with the entire Middle East at risk of going up in flames, oil prices soaring, and the global economy teetering on the edge.
Joel C. Rosenberg, a Christian author, weaves his faith into the narrative, but it’s not overbearing. He also handles the portrayal of Muslims with sensitivity, avoiding broad stereotypes.
The story is a relentless, high-octane political thriller that keeps you hooked from start to finish. There’s never a dull moment, and it’s hard to put down. The political intrigue in the book adds an extra layer of complexity. Despite being written in 2011, the story’s relevance to today’s world is striking. The protagonist, David Shirazi, is a likable character, making it easy to root for him throughout his mission.
I bounced between the eBook and audio version, and Christopher Lane’s narration is top-notch. The Tehran Initiative is a five-star read that doesn’t disappoint. It’s a thrilling page-turner, and I’m eager to dive into the next book in the series, Damascus Countdown.