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In the author’s debut espionage thriller, a special unit of Green Berets attempts to thwart attacks by al-Qaida.
[expand title=”Read More”]Maj. Mike Harris, aka “Black Lion,” and his specially trained Desert Lions capture Hassan Izz-Al-Din of al-Qaida in Afghanistan, disrupting a costly terrorist operation. In retaliation, al-Qaida targets the Desert Lions and their families in the United States directly. It’s not long before the terrorists get their original operation on track—a plan, undertaken in part as revenge for Osama bin Laden’s assassination, involving moles in intelligence agencies and other secret operatives. As the Desert Lions search for terrorists abroad, they must also maintain a defense at home, and it turns out not to be an easy task. Viola’s novel is an action-oriented spy story, but it also spends a surprising, but refreshing, amount of time detailing characters’ histories—even those who are about to die or have just been killed—and he devotes ample space to both good guys and bad. This good/evil dichotomy, however, can sometimes be a little excessive: Mike is repeatedly described as an “upright” and “honorable” man, while the villains are depicted as beyond redemption, engaging in random acts of murder, indiscriminate cocaine use and orgies with unwilling participants. (Al-Qaida leader El-Sahiri, for example, is portrayed as an alcoholic prone to knocking back whiskey shots while giving orders to his men.) Much of the book’s technology is truly remarkable, such as the Desert Lions’ radar-subverting and noiseless stealth copter and the terrorists’ “latties”—unsuspecting sleeper agents with chips implanted in their brains. Ample action sequences provide readers with covert strikes and hefty explosions, but there’s a bit too much focus on downtime, particularly scenes involving Mike and his girlfriend, Marcie, who make love for hours and in as many different rooms as possible. Nevertheless, the novel handles many other relationships with finesse, as when Mike meets his father for the first time and shows him respect the only way he knows how—as if he were a superior officer. An often impressive action thriller propelled by well-developed characters. [/expand]
I love this book as it captures in what we only know as fiction in the real world! I have had the pleasure of interviewing Carlos and he is both very informative and in touch with the subject of this story ! I could not put it down ! Hope to see a follow up to this one ! Thank you for the amazing story that is very real!
Amazing! I have just finished it, once you start you can’t quit. Very detailed places, lots of military knowledge, some romance too. Very complete novel. You can’t miss it!
Geomatics in real time: “Black Lion” is Carlos Viola’s first novel about an American Army Special Forces unit called Desert Lions headed by super-hero Major
[expand title=”Read More”](soon to become Lt. Colonel) Mike Harris, the Black Lion of the title. As heroes go, Mike Harris is too good to be true. That is why we have fiction. But Carlos Viola knows that, implausible as Mike may seem, what really interests us when we pick up a book about American clandestine operations, are the toys. And the toys in this book are plausible, because the author—who comes from a background in geospatial technology—imbues even the most astonishing nanotechnology with the purported authenticity of non-fiction. Want a Stealth Blackhawk helicopter that is invisible to radar and flies noiselessly just above the ground “all sounds being blanked out by the powerful atomic compensators in each rotor blade” and that costs out at about 30mil? How about a micro-surgically implanted eyecell in your nervous system so you can communicate without talking? Remote sensing technology, a tracking satellite of one’s own, geomatics in real time? Viola also takes us on his own GPS tour of the globe where we stop off at all the great cities (London, Paris, Miami, Tokyo, New York, Istanbul), stay at the swankiest hotels, eat and drink lavishly, and then strap on our infrared thermal sensors and go off “To Free the Oppressed” with as little collateral damage as possible. Viola paces his story well, moving from one camp to the other, allowing us to engage in the tension on both sides. Unfortunately, this sense of allocating equal time to all the protagonists, has him flipping back and forth between the perverted sexual life style of the Al-Qaeda leaders who don’t bathe and drink Johnny Walker Blue, and the off duty activities of Mike and his “Beloved” Danish heiress Marcie who make love discretely off stage and consume innumerable bottles of Louis Roederer Crystal Rose champagne (listed on line at $629/bottle for the 2000 vintage). Obviously both sides could use a course in money management. That said, feel free to open one of those fine Argentine Melbecs that Mr. Viola touts in his book as you sit back and enjoy “Black Lion.”[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”](soon to become Lt. Colonel) Mike Harris, the Black Lion of the title. As heroes go, Mike Harris is too good to be true. That is why we have fiction. But Carlos Viola knows that, implausible as Mike may seem, what really interests us when we pick up a book about American clandestine operations, are the toys. And the toys in this book are plausible, because the author—who comes from a background in geospatial technology—imbues even the most astonishing nanotechnology with the purported authenticity of non-fiction. Want a Stealth Blackhawk helicopter that is invisible to radar and flies noiselessly just above the ground “all sounds being blanked out by the powerful atomic compensators in each rotor blade” and that costs out at about 30mil? How about a micro-surgically implanted eyecell in your nervous system so you can communicate without talking? Remote sensing technology, a tracking satellite of one’s own, geomatics in real time? Viola also takes us on his own GPS tour of the globe where we stop off at all the great cities (London, Paris, Miami, Tokyo, New York, Istanbul), stay at the swankiest hotels, eat and drink lavishly, and then strap on our infrared thermal sensors and go off “To Free the Oppressed” with as little collateral damage as possible. Viola paces his story well, moving from one camp to the other, allowing us to engage in the tension on both sides. Unfortunately, this sense of allocating equal time to all the protagonists, has him flipping back and forth between the perverted sexual life style of the Al-Qaeda leaders who don’t bathe and drink Johnny Walker Blue, and the off duty activities of Mike and his “Beloved” Danish heiress Marcie who make love discretely off stage and consume innumerable bottles of Louis Roederer Crystal Rose champagne (listed on line at $629/bottle for the 2000 vintage). Obviously both sides could use a course in money management. That said, feel free to open one of those fine Argentine Melbecs that Mr. Viola touts in his book as you sit back and enjoy “Black Lion.”[/expand]
Couldn’t stop reading Black Lion is everything you want in a book. Suspense, action, military, black ops, some love. Its a great book to read it hooks you up from begining to end! Just awesome!
Major Michael Harris (aka, Black Lion) and his team of the inimitable Desert Lions – a U.S. Army Special Forces unit –[expand title=”Read More”]are given an assignment to capture and transfer Hassan, the new Al-Qaeda leader, to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (or GITMO), where he will be interrogated. The mission goes awry when Harris learns that a GITMO naval officer, doubled as a lattie (an unsuspecting person programmed by the Al-Qaeda terrorists and then used as a weapon against his/her own country), was “activated” to kill Hassan, who had sensitive information about Al-Qaeda’s strategic global terrorist attacks. The ruthless El-Sahiri takes over as the next leader and keeps the Desert Lions hopping. And though Harris, a brave and fearless soldier, understands the danger involved in the various assignments to annihilate Al-Qaeda, he has no idea that his involvement in the mission would threaten the love of his life, Marcie Johanssen. In his debut novel, Viola grabs readers’ attention from the very beginning by drawing attention to terrorism, a familiar issue that is still of great concern in the world today. And maximizing on this issue, he effectively uses the third person objective viewpoint to build tension by enabling readers to see the unfolding of terrorist and counter-attack missions before some characters know what really hit them. However, to create additional familiarity with his audience, he earmarks an American soldier, Harris, as the ultimate protagonist or quasi-super hero. By the time Viola mixes in unnerving events with Al-Qaeda’s disturbing espionage infiltration system, readers may begin to wonder if this book is more nonfiction than fiction. But keep in mind that this is a super hero story and it is fiction! As with all superhero narratives, there is a strong emphasis on good and evil, and Viola does a superb job developing his main characters, Harris, Johanssen, and El-Sahiri, accordingly. While both Harris and Johanssen embrace sturdy and almost pristine personalities, El-Sahiri has got to be the most deplorable character imaginable. However, one of the best character dichotomies are found between the patriotic Harris and the Johanssen, who is a diehard pacifist. But Viola does not stop with his top three. He is careful to balance the narrative by creating a good handful of auxiliary characters who are caught in the crossfire, whether purposefully or in many cases grudgingly, and thereby illuminating readers with a mix of bad in the “good camp” and vice versa. This, for certain, is one of the ways the author keeps the plot fresh and constantly moving, as well as delicately interlacing relational and romantic segments within the many undercover work and warring tactic episodes. Black Lion, indeed, feels more realistic than fictional. Viola has created a story that is filled with unhackneyed diabolical twists and turns centered at the heart of two lovers (who, by the way, reflect the book’s publisher – cute touch!) For readers who love a story filled with suspense, romance and a whole lot of patriotism, Black Lion is the perfect read.[/expand]
Carlos Viola served for over twenty[expand title=”Read More”] years as President and CEO of Aeroterra, a technology company dedicated to providing geospatial solutions using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and satellite imagery, actively participating in all of the many projects undertaken by the company. Passionate reader and writer, Black Lion is his first fiction novel. He currently lives in Buenos Aires with his wife, María. About “Black Lion”… The United States declared war on terrorism after the cowardly attacks of September 11, 2001. Mike Harris is a U.S. Army major and a member of an elite group within the special forces: the dreaded Desert Lions. After a directive issued by the President and using all the technology and resources that they have available, Mike and his lions must travel the world trying to eliminate the terrorist elements of Al-Qaeda that threaten to disrupt world peace. When he meets Marcie Johanssen, a beautiful and rich danish heiress, Mike falls in love instantly and unwittingly she gets dragged into the terrible struggle to be unleashed in different parts of the world.[/expand]
An excellent read!! Mike Harris, aka “Black Lion” and his specially trained Desert Lions (U.S Army special forces unit) have an assignment to capture Hassan Izz- Al-Din leader
[expand title=”Read More”]of Al-Qaeda and transfer Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (GITMO) for interrogation. Al -Qaida in return targets the Desert Lions and their families in united states directly. Its not long before the terrorists get their original operation on track ( a plan as a revenge for Osama Bin Ladens assassination) involving intelligence agencies and other secret operatives. it is not an easy task for desert lions to maintain defense at home and search terrorists abroad. meanwhile the barbarous El-Sahiri succeeds as the next leader and the adventure continues. violas novel carefully handles many relationships like love affair of Mike and girlfriend Marie Johanssen and relation of Mike and his father, making the novel feel more realistic than fictional filled with unhackneyed diabolical twists and turns. Black lion is an impressive action thriller propelled by well developed characters for readers who love suspense, romance and patriotism.’black lion’ is a perfect read.[/expand]
Could not Stop Reading… Black Lion is everything you want in a book. Suspense, action, military, black ops, some love. Its a great book to read it hooks you up from beggining to end! Just awesome!
Very Interesting!!!! Its a very nice book!! It has a lot of suspense from the beginning to the end. Also, a wide open ending that let’s you want more
Viola grabs readers; attention from the very beginning… Major Michael Harris (aka, Black Lion) and his team of the inimitable Desert Lions – a U.S. Army Special Forces unit – are given an assignment to capture
[expand title=”Read More”] and transfer Hassan, the new Al-Qaeda leader, to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (or GITMO), where he will be interrogated. The mission goes awry when Harris learns that a GITMO naval officer, doubled as a lattie (an unsuspecting person programmed by the Al-Qaeda terrorists and then used as a weapon against his/her own country), was “activated” to kill Hassan, who had sensitive information about Al-Qaeda’s strategic global terrorist attacks. The ruthless El-Sahiri takes over as the next leader and keeps the Desert Lions hopping. And though Harris, a brave and fearless soldier, understands the danger involved in the various assignments to annihilate Al-Qaeda, he has no idea that his involvement in the mission would threaten the love of his life, Marcie Johanssen. In his debut novel, Viola grabs readers’ attention from the very beginning by drawing attention to terrorism, a familiar issue that is still of great concern in the world today. And maximizing on this issue, he effectively uses the third person objective viewpoint to build tension by enabling readers to see the unfolding of terrorist and counter-attack missions before some characters know what really hit them. However, to create additional familiarity with his audience, he earmarks an American soldier, Harris, as the ultimate protagonist or quasi-super hero. By the time Viola mixes in unnerving events with Al-Qaeda’s disturbing espionage infiltration system, readers may begin to wonder if this book is more nonfiction than fiction. But keep in mind that this is a super hero story and it is fiction![/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”] and transfer Hassan, the new Al-Qaeda leader, to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (or GITMO), where he will be interrogated. The mission goes awry when Harris learns that a GITMO naval officer, doubled as a lattie (an unsuspecting person programmed by the Al-Qaeda terrorists and then used as a weapon against his/her own country), was “activated” to kill Hassan, who had sensitive information about Al-Qaeda’s strategic global terrorist attacks. The ruthless El-Sahiri takes over as the next leader and keeps the Desert Lions hopping. And though Harris, a brave and fearless soldier, understands the danger involved in the various assignments to annihilate Al-Qaeda, he has no idea that his involvement in the mission would threaten the love of his life, Marcie Johanssen. In his debut novel, Viola grabs readers’ attention from the very beginning by drawing attention to terrorism, a familiar issue that is still of great concern in the world today. And maximizing on this issue, he effectively uses the third person objective viewpoint to build tension by enabling readers to see the unfolding of terrorist and counter-attack missions before some characters know what really hit them. However, to create additional familiarity with his audience, he earmarks an American soldier, Harris, as the ultimate protagonist or quasi-super hero. By the time Viola mixes in unnerving events with Al-Qaeda’s disturbing espionage infiltration system, readers may begin to wonder if this book is more nonfiction than fiction. But keep in mind that this is a super hero story and it is fiction![/expand]
“Black Lion” is Carlos Viola’s first novel about an American Army Special Forces unit called Desert Lions headed by super-hero Major (soon to become Lt. Colonel) Mike Harris,
[expand title=”Read More”] the Black Lion of the title. As heroes go, Mike Harris is too good to be true. That is why we have fiction. But Carlos Viola knows that, implausible as Mike may seem, what really interests us when we pick up a book about American clandestine operations, are the toys. And the toys in this book are plausible, because the author—who comes from a background in geospatial technology—imbues even the most astonishing nanotechnology with the purported authenticity of non-fiction. Want a Stealth Blackhawk helicopter that is invisible to radar and flies noiselessly just above the ground “all sounds being blanked out by the powerful atomic compensators in each rotor blade” and that costs out at about 30mil? How about a micro-surgically implanted eyecell in your nervous system so you can communicate without talking? Remote sensing technology, a tracking satellite of one’s own, geomatics in real time?Viola also takes us on his own GPS tour of the globe where we stop off at all the great cities (London, Paris, Miami, Tokyo, New York, Istanbul), stay at the swankiest hotels, eat and drink lavishly, and then strap on our infrared thermal sensors and go off “To Free the Oppressed” with as little collateral damage as possible.Viola paces his story well, moving from one camp to the other, allowing us to engage in the tension on both sides. Unfortunately, this sense of allocating equal time to all the protagonists, has him flipping back and forth between the perverted sexual life style of the Al-Qaeda leaders who don’t bathe and drink Johnny Walker Blue, and the off duty activities of Mike and his “Beloved” Danish heiress Marcie who make love discretely off stage and consume innumerable bottles of Louis Roederer Crystal Rose champagne (listed on line at $629/bottle for the 2000 vintage). Obviously both sides could use a course in money management. That said, feel free to open one of those fine Argentine Melbecs that Mr. Viola touts in his book as you sit back and enjoy “Black Lion.”[/expand]
Decent First Effort Viola’s novel is a fast read, packed with action. Not a lot of character development though. The good guys are all noble, self-sacrificing types,
[expand title=”Read More”] the villains, terrorists and the traitors who aid them, are all low-life scum who don’t really believe their own religion. They use the innocent, uneducated to further their aims. Mike Harris is the Black Lion title character, the titular leader of the Desert Lions, a division of Special Forces that are a little more-er-special. The battle here is to wipe out Al-Qaeda, who’s planning another 9/11 on three continents involving the U.S. and it’s allies. Harris is not a complicated fellow, Rambo jumped up several notches and he meets his lady love with whom he slobbers all over every time they get near each. It reads like a romance novel when they get together. Okay, they love each other very much. We don’t need to be beat over the head with it. The good guys are all very pretty, very rich, and jet all over the world at the drop of a hat to places most of us can only dream about. For the action, not a bad first novel. For the romance part, more of a woman’s book (I mean the type that love that sort of stuff).[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”] the villains, terrorists and the traitors who aid them, are all low-life scum who don’t really believe their own religion. They use the innocent, uneducated to further their aims. Mike Harris is the Black Lion title character, the titular leader of the Desert Lions, a division of Special Forces that are a little more-er-special. The battle here is to wipe out Al-Qaeda, who’s planning another 9/11 on three continents involving the U.S. and it’s allies. Harris is not a complicated fellow, Rambo jumped up several notches and he meets his lady love with whom he slobbers all over every time they get near each. It reads like a romance novel when they get together. Okay, they love each other very much. We don’t need to be beat over the head with it. The good guys are all very pretty, very rich, and jet all over the world at the drop of a hat to places most of us can only dream about. For the action, not a bad first novel. For the romance part, more of a woman’s book (I mean the type that love that sort of stuff).[/expand]
A Quick and Easy Read, Entertaining If You’re in the Right Mood Carlos Viola’s novel Black Lion is fairly long, but it’s also a quick and easy read. Taken in the proper spirit, moreover,
[expand title=”Read More”] it’s entertaining. Viola’s prose is a bit wobbly and uncertain at the very beginning, but once he gets his footing the book flows smoothly. Viola has a clear eye for descriptive detail, and he does an admirable job of painting pictures with words, enabling us to see what’s going on. I came away form the book with vivid recollections of people, places, and events, all rendered in language. Black Lion is Viola’s first novel, but given his talent as a writer of English prose, I’m sure he’ll soon be producing more reader-friendly material.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”] it’s entertaining. Viola’s prose is a bit wobbly and uncertain at the very beginning, but once he gets his footing the book flows smoothly. Viola has a clear eye for descriptive detail, and he does an admirable job of painting pictures with words, enabling us to see what’s going on. I came away form the book with vivid recollections of people, places, and events, all rendered in language. Black Lion is Viola’s first novel, but given his talent as a writer of English prose, I’m sure he’ll soon be producing more reader-friendly material.[/expand]
Mr. Carlos Viola seems to have done a high amount of research to round out this book but what I am afraid he missed is any depth in his characters.
[expand title=”Read More”]Mike Harris, the main character is only real in one aspect. The fact that he was a result of a 7 month affair. Growing up without a dad was a the only real thing about him to me. Otherwise he is so “perfect” so “hung ho” for his country and then for the girl, Marcie, he falls in love with… that is all there seems to be of him. He has no extraneous facets. No depth. Then you have Marcie. She seems that way also. I am having trouble explaining why this book frustrated me so. While the story is unfolding , they meet and within two months they are glued to each other. Using the word “beloved” constantly.. plus she is so incredibly beautiful that no one can take their eyes off of her. ( Males basically) She has a friend Alexia… same thing here. Everybody is extremely wealthy, extremely gorgeous . Everytime they are together, they have incredible trips only the wealthy could afford then its back to the story. Even here, the villain is over the top. I have to say its an odd combination. These famed “Desert Lions” always have the newest weapons, planes, equipment always just in time for a new mission. I do believe this is a translation and maybe that is partly at fault. I think the writer has talent but really needs to hone in more on his character development. Try for a story that is plausible and deeper into real life. There are battles and people do die or get damaged. That is a reality but the whole thing just rings hollow to me.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]Mike Harris, the main character is only real in one aspect. The fact that he was a result of a 7 month affair. Growing up without a dad was a the only real thing about him to me. Otherwise he is so “perfect” so “hung ho” for his country and then for the girl, Marcie, he falls in love with… that is all there seems to be of him. He has no extraneous facets. No depth. Then you have Marcie. She seems that way also. I am having trouble explaining why this book frustrated me so. While the story is unfolding , they meet and within two months they are glued to each other. Using the word “beloved” constantly.. plus she is so incredibly beautiful that no one can take their eyes off of her. ( Males basically) She has a friend Alexia… same thing here. Everybody is extremely wealthy, extremely gorgeous . Everytime they are together, they have incredible trips only the wealthy could afford then its back to the story. Even here, the villain is over the top. I have to say its an odd combination. These famed “Desert Lions” always have the newest weapons, planes, equipment always just in time for a new mission. I do believe this is a translation and maybe that is partly at fault. I think the writer has talent but really needs to hone in more on his character development. Try for a story that is plausible and deeper into real life. There are battles and people do die or get damaged. That is a reality but the whole thing just rings hollow to me.[/expand]
The war on terror…
Major Mike Harris is a Green Beret who is the leader of an elite group known as the Desert Lions. He, himself, has the nickname of being the “Black Lion”
[expand title=”Read More”] and he is quickly becoming a legend throughout the Special Forces community. He & his team are hot on the trail of Al Qieda operatives who are attempting to stage an even more spectacular attack than they did on 9/11/2001. Such is the backdrop of the novel. It is an exciting book and a panoramic tale that will take the reader all around the world; Japan, Australia, South America, and various locations throughout Europe & the Middle East. It showcases the skills & operational capacity of Special Forces to engage hostiles and eliminate them with malicious intent. That said, there are a few covert missions in the book that would seem to be more in the realm of sorties run by the CIA than the Army Green Berets. However, that is just my opinion. Lastly, the book would have you believe that Special Forces units are entirely made up of officers as there is nary a reference to any of them being enlisted (at least that I can recall?). This, too, is erroneous. SF are unique in that rank actually means LESS in the field than elsewhere in the armed forces. In fact, not only are most SF types enlisted, but they can actually LEAD missions if they have expertise in a specific area that the mission needs. I have just a few criticisms of the book. First, the narrative of the tale could use a little refining. In particular, the author has an affinity of the word “powerful” and tends to over-use it. This is a bit irritating and also makes the word lose some of its value in describing that the writer is trying to describe. Also, some of the technology in the book is a bit over-the-top and pushes the envelope on plausibility. L That said, this is a book that is highly recommended for people who enjoy Special Forces adventures. One of the strongest points of the book is the character development of Major Harris. One of the “knocks” on Special Forces types (EVEN by people within the Special Forces community!) is that they can tend to be a bit arrogant & full of themselves. While some SF types are certainly guilty of this, Major Harris is not. He is down-to-earth and does not develop a misanthropic attitude towards the rest of the world. In fact, he’s the kind of likeable Green Beret whom you’d love to have over for Thanksgiving Dinner! All in all, this is a great SF adventure and is highly recommended for fans of the genre. As the Green Berets themselves would say, the ultimate goal of combat is to “free the oppressed!”[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”] and he is quickly becoming a legend throughout the Special Forces community. He & his team are hot on the trail of Al Qieda operatives who are attempting to stage an even more spectacular attack than they did on 9/11/2001. Such is the backdrop of the novel. It is an exciting book and a panoramic tale that will take the reader all around the world; Japan, Australia, South America, and various locations throughout Europe & the Middle East. It showcases the skills & operational capacity of Special Forces to engage hostiles and eliminate them with malicious intent. That said, there are a few covert missions in the book that would seem to be more in the realm of sorties run by the CIA than the Army Green Berets. However, that is just my opinion. Lastly, the book would have you believe that Special Forces units are entirely made up of officers as there is nary a reference to any of them being enlisted (at least that I can recall?). This, too, is erroneous. SF are unique in that rank actually means LESS in the field than elsewhere in the armed forces. In fact, not only are most SF types enlisted, but they can actually LEAD missions if they have expertise in a specific area that the mission needs. I have just a few criticisms of the book. First, the narrative of the tale could use a little refining. In particular, the author has an affinity of the word “powerful” and tends to over-use it. This is a bit irritating and also makes the word lose some of its value in describing that the writer is trying to describe. Also, some of the technology in the book is a bit over-the-top and pushes the envelope on plausibility. L That said, this is a book that is highly recommended for people who enjoy Special Forces adventures. One of the strongest points of the book is the character development of Major Harris. One of the “knocks” on Special Forces types (EVEN by people within the Special Forces community!) is that they can tend to be a bit arrogant & full of themselves. While some SF types are certainly guilty of this, Major Harris is not. He is down-to-earth and does not develop a misanthropic attitude towards the rest of the world. In fact, he’s the kind of likeable Green Beret whom you’d love to have over for Thanksgiving Dinner! All in all, this is a great SF adventure and is highly recommended for fans of the genre. As the Green Berets themselves would say, the ultimate goal of combat is to “free the oppressed!”[/expand]
Viola’s novel is a fast read, packed with action. Not a lot of character development though. The good guys are all noble, self-sacrificing types, the villains, terrorists
[expand title=”Read More”]and the traitors who aid them, are all low-life scum who don’t really believe their own religion. They use the innocent, uneducated to further their aims. Mike Harris is the Black Lion title character, the titular leader of the Desert Lions, a division of Special Forces that are a little more-er-special. The battle here is to wipe out Al-Qaeda, who’s planning another 9/11 on three continents involving the U.S. and it’s allies. Harris is not a complicated fellow, Rambo jumped up several notches and he meets his lady love with whom he slobbers all over every time they get near each. It reads like a romance novel when they get together. Okay, they love each other very much. We don’t need to be beat over the head with it. The good guys are all very pretty, very rich, and jet all over the world at the drop of a hat to places most of us can only dream about. For the action, not a bad first novel. For the romance part, more of a woman’s book(I mean the type tht love that sort of stuff).[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]and the traitors who aid them, are all low-life scum who don’t really believe their own religion. They use the innocent, uneducated to further their aims. Mike Harris is the Black Lion title character, the titular leader of the Desert Lions, a division of Special Forces that are a little more-er-special. The battle here is to wipe out Al-Qaeda, who’s planning another 9/11 on three continents involving the U.S. and it’s allies. Harris is not a complicated fellow, Rambo jumped up several notches and he meets his lady love with whom he slobbers all over every time they get near each. It reads like a romance novel when they get together. Okay, they love each other very much. We don’t need to be beat over the head with it. The good guys are all very pretty, very rich, and jet all over the world at the drop of a hat to places most of us can only dream about. For the action, not a bad first novel. For the romance part, more of a woman’s book(I mean the type tht love that sort of stuff).[/expand]
Wow! There are actually several stories going on at once and the master writer knows how to bring them all together in the end, even when the ending is left open as a door is left ajar.
[expand title=”Read More”] There is enough information in this novel for three or four novels so that perhaps Carlos can pick up on any of the stories and continue in a follow-up novel. I really enjoy military and special ops books, especially with a touch of class. Carlos Viola is certainly well traveled, apparently staying in 5-star hotels, and eating the finest foods. He gifted this book to me for my honest review. What more can I say that hasn’t already been said by other reviewers? I think FIVE stars says it all.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”] There is enough information in this novel for three or four novels so that perhaps Carlos can pick up on any of the stories and continue in a follow-up novel. I really enjoy military and special ops books, especially with a touch of class. Carlos Viola is certainly well traveled, apparently staying in 5-star hotels, and eating the finest foods. He gifted this book to me for my honest review. What more can I say that hasn’t already been said by other reviewers? I think FIVE stars says it all.[/expand]
I like it- I like it BETTER in Spanish. I agree with the other reviewer that the technology adaptations in this book is quite fun for my tech-geeky mind.
[expand title=”Read More”]I searched out the Author on Google to see what his background was and WOW what an insider treat to have an Executive of a international tech company create a story wrapped around some very impressive technology and to take us readers on that journey. There are many parts of this that are not plausible,at times and did not invite the reader to BUY IN to the scene, it is predictable,as many spy novels are, and it is typical of a first book author. I would like to see this writer again after 3 more novels, Gladly- I would like to see him again in three more novels, If you are an English reader the transcription to English is spotty- it looks transcribed not translated. The Spanish original plays better in the scenes and the overall messaging, If I was only going to buy one version I would always buy it in its original Spanish. Nice little beach read for Costa Rica.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]I searched out the Author on Google to see what his background was and WOW what an insider treat to have an Executive of a international tech company create a story wrapped around some very impressive technology and to take us readers on that journey. There are many parts of this that are not plausible,at times and did not invite the reader to BUY IN to the scene, it is predictable,as many spy novels are, and it is typical of a first book author. I would like to see this writer again after 3 more novels, Gladly- I would like to see him again in three more novels, If you are an English reader the transcription to English is spotty- it looks transcribed not translated. The Spanish original plays better in the scenes and the overall messaging, If I was only going to buy one version I would always buy it in its original Spanish. Nice little beach read for Costa Rica.[/expand]
I loved this book. I picked it up to see what it was about and couldn’t put it down. In fact, It kept me up late at night reading when I should have been sleeping.
[expand title=”Read More”]There were many stories going on simultaneously, lots of action and intrigue. It was especially fun for me because I love to travel and have been to many of the cities that set the backdrop for the book. While some people believe it to be far-fetched, I think we may be reading about some systems that we already have in place just aren’t aware of. The knowledge of technology by the author, Carlos Viola, is amazing. Black Lion is fun, exciting, thrilling and vibrant. I’m eagerly awaiting the sequel![/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]There were many stories going on simultaneously, lots of action and intrigue. It was especially fun for me because I love to travel and have been to many of the cities that set the backdrop for the book. While some people believe it to be far-fetched, I think we may be reading about some systems that we already have in place just aren’t aware of. The knowledge of technology by the author, Carlos Viola, is amazing. Black Lion is fun, exciting, thrilling and vibrant. I’m eagerly awaiting the sequel![/expand]
Futuristic weaponry being deployed today by the United States military is something we can all find hints of via the internet and Youtube, this author takes us behind
[expand title=”Read More”]the scenes and sheds light on exactly what is being thought up and what may already be in use by our troops in the seemingly never ending war on terror. Vivid depictions of scenarios and responses that ring true with that thin film of “is this really happening” feeling will wash over you with each page turned. A truly novel look at our nations stance and what we as a people will accept in this shadow war.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]the scenes and sheds light on exactly what is being thought up and what may already be in use by our troops in the seemingly never ending war on terror. Vivid depictions of scenarios and responses that ring true with that thin film of “is this really happening” feeling will wash over you with each page turned. A truly novel look at our nations stance and what we as a people will accept in this shadow war.[/expand]
As a 20 plus year veteran of the American Military I can say truly this is one of the most fascinating reads of this kind I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
[expand title=”Read More”]The world of espionage has changed in the post 9-11 world and this is a vivid look into our modern day heroes and the challenges they face and overcome.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]The world of espionage has changed in the post 9-11 world and this is a vivid look into our modern day heroes and the challenges they face and overcome.[/expand]
Well developed characters! Suicide bombers, secret lairs, inner circles of power both evil and good splash across the page in vivid imagery. Globe trotting and chasing down
[expand title=”Read More”] bad guys with new high tech toys. Mr Viola may have just birthed the American James Bond in this stunning new novel. You will cringe, cry, cheer and laugh as you burn through this book. Hard to put down and hard to let go the end came too soon.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”] bad guys with new high tech toys. Mr Viola may have just birthed the American James Bond in this stunning new novel. You will cringe, cry, cheer and laugh as you burn through this book. Hard to put down and hard to let go the end came too soon.[/expand]
Must read for anyone! At last! A novel about terrorism that is not afraid to let the world in on the true nature of the global waron terror. Nightmare scenarios unfold as a
[expand title=”Read More”]green beret uses every bit of his extensive training to achieve goals most would find both untenable and undoable. A no nonsense snapshot of the world behind the news clips delivered in a unique voice. A must read for anyone who wonders what really happens when“seal team six” is deployed.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]green beret uses every bit of his extensive training to achieve goals most would find both untenable and undoable. A no nonsense snapshot of the world behind the news clips delivered in a unique voice. A must read for anyone who wonders what really happens when“seal team six” is deployed.[/expand]
Fast paced and captivating Heroes of democracy and freedom race to stop a massive terrorist attack on several targets worldwide utilizing futuristic weaponry.
[expand title=”Read More”]An inside look at the ongoing war on terror. this book will move you in ways you didn’t possible. tightly worded and filled with vivid imagery you will feel like you are privy to a hidden world of world policing that surrounds us at all times.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]An inside look at the ongoing war on terror. this book will move you in ways you didn’t possible. tightly worded and filled with vivid imagery you will feel like you are privy to a hidden world of world policing that surrounds us at all times.[/expand]
Well defined characters race to stop an unknown threat while navigating for the first time into the realm of love. A page turner in the style of Clancy
[expand title=”Read More”]and Brown this tale takes you on a journey into the modern day war on terror. well defined characters race to stop an unknown threat while navigating for the first time into the realm of love.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]and Brown this tale takes you on a journey into the modern day war on terror. well defined characters race to stop an unknown threat while navigating for the first time into the realm of love.[/expand]
Reads like today’s headline news! Black Lion , a work of fiction by author Carlos Viola, reads like today’s headline news. The main character, Major Michael Harris
[expand title=”Read More”]is embroiled in a war against terrorism with familiar real-world targets that include Al-Qaeda, Muslim radicals and of course Gitmo , training camps, etc. Viola clearly has a handle on the real world of counter terrorism and the inner machinations of surveillance, black ops, technology and cultural differences. Written in a fast paced fashion similar to Clancy or Ludlum, Viola is impressive as a new author. Without giving away the ending, I will only say that justice is served and the ending is greatly satisfying. I devoured this close to 400 page book on a red eye flight from LA to Boston. Who needs sleep! It was that good![/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]is embroiled in a war against terrorism with familiar real-world targets that include Al-Qaeda, Muslim radicals and of course Gitmo , training camps, etc. Viola clearly has a handle on the real world of counter terrorism and the inner machinations of surveillance, black ops, technology and cultural differences. Written in a fast paced fashion similar to Clancy or Ludlum, Viola is impressive as a new author. Without giving away the ending, I will only say that justice is served and the ending is greatly satisfying. I devoured this close to 400 page book on a red eye flight from LA to Boston. Who needs sleep! It was that good![/expand]
An action packed thriller! ‘Black lion’ by author carlos voila is one of the most perfect novels a reader would come across since it is a wonderful blend of romance,
[expand title=”Read More”]action,adventure and thrill. The book is based on terrorism and its dreadful challenges faced by Mike Harris and his well trained U.S special Army force unit known as ‘Desert Lions’ who are assigned to get hold of Hassan Izz -Al -Din(an Al -Qaida leader) hassan -izz-al din has to be transfered to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (GITMO) for interrogation once desert lions capture him. Things get more challenging and worst when al qaida plans to target desert lions family in U.S as a part of revenge and now desert lions are to maintain defence at home and search terrorists abroad. Author has also woven a blooming,warm love affair which is taking place between mike and his girlfriend Marie Johanssen amidst all the action and thrill taking place in mikes work life Black lion is an impressive action thriller with well developed characters and fresh current story line.its a perfect captivating read for all age types and i would highly recommend this book to all esp. To all youngsters and to all those who are against terrorism and its evil activities and after effects.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]action,adventure and thrill. The book is based on terrorism and its dreadful challenges faced by Mike Harris and his well trained U.S special Army force unit known as ‘Desert Lions’ who are assigned to get hold of Hassan Izz -Al -Din(an Al -Qaida leader) hassan -izz-al din has to be transfered to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (GITMO) for interrogation once desert lions capture him. Things get more challenging and worst when al qaida plans to target desert lions family in U.S as a part of revenge and now desert lions are to maintain defence at home and search terrorists abroad. Author has also woven a blooming,warm love affair which is taking place between mike and his girlfriend Marie Johanssen amidst all the action and thrill taking place in mikes work life Black lion is an impressive action thriller with well developed characters and fresh current story line.its a perfect captivating read for all age types and i would highly recommend this book to all esp. To all youngsters and to all those who are against terrorism and its evil activities and after effects.[/expand]
Good Thing He’s on Our Side Interesting premise and fascinating technology combined into a military thriller. Action, adventure, romance, everything you’d like in a story.
[expand title=”Read More”]I always enjoy reading a book and learning new things–military technology in this instance. The translation is awkward in some places, but the story shines through.[/expand]
[expand title=”Read More”]I always enjoy reading a book and learning new things–military technology in this instance. The translation is awkward in some places, but the story shines through.[/expand]
Black Lion is the first novel by new author Carlos Viola. A fictionalized account of the United States’[expand title=”Read More”]response the Al-Qaeda terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Black Lion follows the exploits of Major Mike Harris (code name: Black Lion) and his elite group of Special Forces, the Desert Lions, as they set out to rid the world of all Al-Qaeda terror cells. Along the way, our hero falls in love with Danish heiress Marcie Johannsen, who gets caught up in the major’s war on terror, as Black Lion tries to balance his new affections with his duty to his country, all the while keeping his wits sharp enough to handle the shadowy world of covert operations. Viola’s knowledge of military tactics and technology is remarkably sound, and it is in this realm, the detail with which he explores and depicts the nature and tools of battle, that his writing is displayed to best effect. The author also competently manages his character development; despite this ostensibly being an action spy thriller, Viola isn’t in a hurry to get to the action. He invests the time to allow the reader to know who these characters are. At times this causes the pace to drag slightly, primarily in the telling of the love story between Maj. Harris and Miss Johannsen. However, the net effect is positive. The only weakness with the novel is Viola’s tendency to propagandize the war on terror. While the words “upright” and “honorable” constantly pop up in regards to our hero, our enemy gets the ‘80s action-movie total-villain treatment, portrayed as basically being evil for the fun of it. This is a bit too black and white for more sophisticated readers of the genre. An opportunity to explore the seemingly irreconcilable differences in the respective moral codes of protagonists and antagonists is for the most part left unfulfilled. Despite this, Black Lion remains a quality first effort from a new author that will doubtless be enjoyed by most fans of the spy/action genre.[/expand]