Sentinel by Mark Greaney is a high-octane thriller that plunges readers into the volatile political landscape of Ghana, where protagonist Joshua Duffy faces a relentless battle to protect his family and fulfill his mission.
As a sequel to Armored, this novel continues to explore Duffy's complex life as a security contractor, blending intense action sequences with intricate character development.
Duffy, a seasoned security contractor with a prosthetic leg, accompanies his wife, Nikki, on a diplomatic mission to Ghana. Nikki's role in the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service involves overseeing the construction of a new dam, symbolising American commitment to the region. Believing Ghana to be a stable democracy, the Duffys bring their children along, anticipating a blend of work and family time.
However, their expectations are shattered when a Chinese-backed coup erupts, aiming to destabilise the country and sabotage the dam project.
Caught in the crossfire, Josh and Nikki must navigate a landscape rife with rebel forces, Chinese operatives, and a resurfacing adversary from Josh's past. The narrative escalates as they strive to protect their family and colleagues amidst escalating chaos.
Greaney excels in crafting multifaceted characters, and Sentinel is no exception. Josh emerges as a compelling protagonist, embodying resilience and vulnerability. His physical limitation - a prosthetic leg - adds depth to his character, showcasing his determination to overcome personal and professional challenges. Meanwhile, Nikki, is portrayed as a formidable partner, balancing her professional responsibilities with her role as a mother. Their dynamic relationship adds an emotional layer to the narrative, grounding the high-stakes action in relatable human experiences. The antagonists are equally well-developed, with motivations that transcend stereotypical villainy, adding complexity to the conflict.
The thriller delves into themes of loyalty, duty, and the moral ambiguities inherent in international politics. The setting of Ghana is meticulously researched, with Greaney capturing the country's cultural richness and political tensions. The depiction of the coup and its ramifications offers a nuanced perspective on the interplay between global superpowers and developing nations. The inclusion of Chinese operatives as antagonists reflects contemporary geopolitical concerns, adding a layer of realism to the fictional narrative.
The novel's pacing is relentless, with action sequences that are both frequent and meticulously detailed. Greaney's expertise in crafting combat scenes is evident, immersing readers in the visceral realities of warfare. However, some critics note that the predictability of certain plot points may detract from the overall suspense. Despite this, the narrative maintains momentum, driven by high stakes and the protagonists' unwavering resolve. The writing is crisp and cinematic, with vivid descriptions that bring both the setting and action to life.
Sentinel is recommended for its engaging plot and robust character development. And Greaney's ability to balance intense action with emotional depth to create a story that resonates on multiple levels is commendable. The novel's exploration of contemporary geopolitical issues has been highlighted as a strength, providing readers with a thought-provoking narrative that extends beyond conventional thriller tropes.
Overall, Sentinel is a compelling addition to the thriller genre, offering a blend of high-stakes action, intricate character studies, and timely political commentary.