Rogue Command (Troy Stark Thriller #2) (2024)

This one had adventure though I still believe Jack Mars has written better series than the Troy Stark one, but it is easy reading

I have become a pretty big fan of Jack Mars and have read and listened to almost all of his books and his various series (at least, I think so). That's why it was odd that this series took me a little longer than normal to get into it. It was probably me and whatever was going on with me at the time - but one day I realized that I had started this book and never got past the first few chapters, so I thought, "better try this again". This time, I was definitely engaged, and it did not take long to get immersed in the storyline.

Out of all of his series, this is probably the most surface level. In other words, the level of depth is not as deep as some of the other books. With that being said, it still had the action, drama and intrigue that I have come to expect from Mr. Mars. Yes, the world building on this one is a little light. I mean, we are two books into the series and I still have no idea who Alex really is - I mean, seriously, how does he just SHOW UP everywhere when Troy Stark is supposed to be a super secret agent? Maybe that is supposed to be a mystery on purpose....maybe? Not really sure.

This book has Troy Stark and his new group following after a group of environmental terrorists, but is that really what is going on? Mr. Stark is his usual "jump in and think about the consequences later" self, but that seems to work for him.

I did laugh because while reading/listening to this I heard a line from a Taylor Swift song. I'm thinking that it's because I had just been to her ERA's Concert that it stuck out for me....but it did make me smile. What was that line you ask?

"Play stupid games, win stupid prizes"

Great line for the win :)

In the world of thriller audiobooks, a narrator's voice can be as lethal a weapon as the protagonist's arsenal. Phillip Sacramento wields this weapon with the finesse of a seasoned operative in Jack Mars' audiobook, "Rogue Command." As the 2nd installment in the Troy Stark Thriller series, this narrative plunges listeners into a vortex of geopolitical intrigue and heart-stopping action.

**Narration: The Voice Behind the Valor

Sacramento, known for his dynamic vocal range, brings to life Troy Stark, an elite Navy SEAL forced into retirement but not into obscurity. His voice, textured with the grit of experience and the smoothness of a natural leader, encapsulates Stark's complex character—a man of honor entangled in a web of clandestine operations. Sacramento's performance is not just a reading; it's an embodiment of every pulse-pounding moment, every strategic maneuver, and every emotional undercurrent.

**Plot: A Chessboard of Global Stakes

"Rogue Command" is a cerebral dance of cat-and-mouse, set against the backdrop of international terrorism with nuclear-level consequences. Mars crafts a narrative that is both expansive in its global reach and intimate in its exploration of the human spirit. The plot unfurls with the precision of a well-oiled mission, where every move could be the last. The stakes are high, the enemies are shadowy, and the target is unknown—a trifecta that keeps the listener ensnared.

**Character Development: The Soul of the Soldier

At the heart of this audiobook is Troy Stark, a man whose respect for authority is as dubious as his commitment to justice is unwavering. Mars delves deep into Stark's psyche, revealing a character who is not just a warrior but also a thinker, a strategist, and, at times, a reluctant hero. The supporting cast, including an Interpol agent who earns Stark's grudging respect, is equally compelling, providing a counterbalance to Stark's intensity.

**Themes: The Echoes of War and Peace

Mars navigates the treacherous waters of modern warfare and the moral dilemmas that come with it. "Rogue Command" is a meditation on the cost of security, the weight of command, and the price of peace. It's a story that questions the lines drawn in the sand and the ones etched in the human heart.

**Experience: The Listener's Journey

Listening to "Rogue Command" is akin to being parachuted into the theater of operations. Sacramento's narration heightens the experience, ensuring that every twist and turn is felt viscerally. The audiobook format adds a layer of immersion that is often lost in print, making the listener an active participant in the unfolding drama.

Jack Mars' "Rogue Command," as narrated by Phillip Sacramento, is a masterclass in thriller storytelling. It's a journey through the shadows of war that illuminates the resilience of the human spirit. For those who crave a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally gripping, this audiobook is a commendable addition to any collection.

In the second installment of the Troy Stark saga, it looks like another winner. This was a high octane, action packed thriller about Troy Stark and his international team on the trail of environmental terrorists. When the initial attacks started in scientific labs around the world, the connection was made when an attack occurred of American soil. That's where Stark comes into play as with the previous book. I am enjoying the character development as his backstory of what happened while he was in the Navy SEALs comes into light, especially the circ*mstances leading to his discharge.

It is important for the reader to understand more about Stark, what's his moral code and what makes him tick. I feel that author Jack Mars is covering that very well. However, the cowboy and commando attitude that he has on these new missions and training exercises doesn't go over well with his partner and that made the interaction and the drama between Stark and her very tangible. She caused him to rethink his approach to situations and temper is "actions first, question later" mindset. Otherwise, she was afraid his actions would eventually get her killed and that is unacceptable to her. Given the fact that he comes from a black ops, combat and military background, it's understandable about his mindset and she helped him to become more aware that he has to make a lot of adjustments.

Rogue Command enables us to see more of the team(s) Stark is working with, not only in a secret capacity with the NYPD but kind of like an infiltrator or double agent with Interpol. While his style is unorthodox, he produces results even when the circ*mstances become a little messy while stopping international threats and saving the world. This series is well written and a fast read which is why I highly recommend this suspense/crime thriller and I am off to the next book.

Book2 of the Troy Stark Thriller Series.
Although elite Navy SEAL Troy Stark was forced into retirement for his dubious respect for authority, his work in stopping a major terrorist threat to New York did not go unnoticed. Now part of a new, secret international organization, Troy must hunt down all threats to the U.S. and pre-empt them overseas—bending the rules if he has to.
This is a fast paced thriller, black ops book. It's brilliant, well orchestrated and as always with a Jack Mars book, it's a fantastic read.
There is also the dash of romance.
Troy Stark is a brilliant character, his attitude is what you'd expect of an elite who knows his worth with his dry sense of humor.
Mars hooks you in from the very start with instant action and it doesn't stop. I read Rogue Command and loved the story surrounding Troy Stark and have already lined up book III in the series.
Mars writes fluidly with great description and you know exactly where you are at throughout chapter to chapter.
Can't wait to start the next one.
Kerry Kennedy Author

Quirky story line - a bit jumpy and way too many mysterious developments that never got resolved. This book needed to be cleaned and edited - weird characters, introducing Mr Mystery Gallo near the end and not enough time spent on the storyboard. I really liked #1, but this one was a strange ride.

Jack Mars never fails to capture the reader in spite of misspellings, grammar issues, and transposed words. Please get a proofreader! The plot is inline with current world issues which only increases the reader's interest. Can't wait for Book 3!

Troy Stark, a former American doorkicker, is now working for a secret subdivision of Interpol. When a science research lab in the US get attacked, he is asked to investigate as he's just back in the US for the wedding of one of his brothers. Afterwards he returns to their headquarters in Madrid. Soon there are similar attacks on science research labs in Europe and he and his partner, Dubois, are sent to investigate. Another very entertaining read by Jack Mars. Can't wait for the next one.

A Great Story

This Troy has a thrill time to locate and stop the terrorists destroying linear accelerates. The story seems to jumps from people and actions. Some of the narrative seems to repeat. The characters and the actions are great, but the writing causes problems.

I kind liked this book. Yeah, it’s another super spy, unbeatable seal, terrific marksman, and an unbending sense of altruism. But it’s a fast moving, over the top storyline that you know is full of it, but fun anyway.

An action packed exciting story, can't wait for the next in the series.

Not as compelling

As Jack’s other books and characters. I prefer the books by Christopher Rosow and Ben Porter rather than Troy Stark.

I had just finished reading book one and went on to Rogue Command which I enjoyed. I am now reading book three of the series. So far very entertaining.

Action packed. Good read.

3.5-4. Good CIA type thriller, good on audio. Unrealistic but that’s part of the fun.

Rogue command

Excellent read kept you looking g forward to another exciting chapter. V different angle on story line not too much blood and gore.

Excellent action in the heart of Europe

DNF - I’m not sure if it has been to long since I listened to the first book of this series but I just wasn’t pulled in. This was not written as well as the authors other books IMO. 1.86 audio

I am listening to this series and could not get this format on Goodreads site.

Anyway ,continuing on the Troy Stark adventures and the complicated characters that come into his life