Reader Reviews The Executive’s Secret
Reader Review 1
Very Entertaining
Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2025
Andrew M. Semple’s The Executive’s Secret is a gripping corporate thriller that delves into the high-stakes world of business, ambition, and deception. The novel follows Alex, a rising executive who uncovers a powerful secret that could either propel him to the top or destroy everything he has worked for. Semple crafts an engaging narrative filled with unexpected twists, corporate intrigue, and a deep exploration of the moral dilemmas that come with success.
One of the novel’s strongest aspects is its pacing. From the very first chapter, Semple pulls the reader into a fast-moving world where boardroom politics are just as dangerous as backroom deals. Alex’s journey is compelling, as he navigates a web of secrets, power struggles, and personal sacrifices. The author does an excellent job of developing tension, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
Semple also excels at creating realistic characters, particularly Alex, whose internal conflict adds depth to the story. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, with each character playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama with the influence of Tom Clancy. The novel’s themes of ambition, ethics, and the cost of success resonate long after the final page.
For readers who enjoy thrillers with a corporate edge, The Executive’s Secret is a must-read. Semple’s sharp writing and intricate storytelling make this a standout novel in the genre. It’s a thought-provoking and entertaining book that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Reader Review 2
A fast-paced thriller filled with secrets and intrigue
Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2025
"The price was high but the reward was immeasurable"
What a beautifully written journey, detailing the life and supposed retirement of agent by day, family man by night. Filled with danger, secrecy, national security, and betrayal, The Executive's Secret paints a beautiful, often anachronistic picture of a comfortable suburban family life versus a high stakes dangerous professional life.
The author's incredible story telling and beautiful prose describe every day scenes - an office space, a quiet morning, etc.- with as much care and detail as he does the scenes wrought with tension and growing unease.
The story is described as a fictional account based on an amalgam of true events and what results is something straight out of the best spy thriller. The author truly captured how difficult it would be to switch roles, be different people within the same life - an actual double life - trying to be a good husband, dad, family man while simultaneously working in what could be considered one of the most if not the most dangerous profession.
The second half of The Executive's Secret really demonstrates the impossibility of attempting to "retire" and transition to a normal civilian life while emphasizing the importance of therapy and addressing one's mental health.
A quick and powerful read, filled with something for every reader.
Reader Review 3
Couldn't Put it Down!
Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2025
From the very first sentence, The Executive’s Secret had me hooked. The author’s dedication reveals that the story is based on true events, which only heightens the thrill and authenticity of the narrative. While this book delivers everything a fan of espionage thrillers could want—suspense, high-stakes action, and intricate deception—it also goes beyond the genre’s typical boundaries, delving into the deeply personal and emotional toll of being a spy.
What sets this novel apart is how it explores the sacrifices that come with a life of espionage. It’s not just about the danger the protagonist, Alex, faces; it’s about the ripple effect his choices have on his loved ones. The book forces readers to consider the personal cost of secrecy, deception, and duty—things we rarely dwell on when watching action-packed spy films. Semple’s writing is rich with detail and emotion, making every decision Alex makes feel weighty and consequential.
Another standout aspect of the novel is its unpredictability. I love books that keep me on my toes, and The Executive’s Secret did exactly that. Just when I thought I had figured out where the story was going, a twist would completely change the game. The surprises are not just thrown in for shock value; they are carefully woven into the narrative, making the story even more compelling.
Whether you're a longtime fan of spy thrillers or simply looking for a novel that blends intrigue with emotional depth, The Executive’s Secret is a must-read. It offers a perfect balance of action, suspense, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a book that lingers in your mind long after you turn the final page.
Reader Review 4
Secrets and Sacrifice
Reviewed in the United States on March 6, 2025
"The Executive’s Secret" by Andrew M. Semple is a heartfelt tribute to those who live in the shadows, making impossible choices for the greater good—a deep dive into the unseen battles fought by people whose sacrifices go unnoticed by the world.
As someone who has worked in high-stress environments as an educator, I found myself drawn to the theme of silent struggle. Just like educators and caregivers work tirelessly behind the scenes to shape futures, the figures in this book work to protect stability—often at a great personal cost. Their efforts may not make headlines, but their impact is undeniable, shaping the world in ways most will never fully understand.
The dedication at the beginning of the book alone sets the tone for a story that isn’t just about excitement—it’s about honoring those who live with the burden of responsibility. Semple brings these hidden stories to life with a sense of realism that makes the weight of each decision feel personal. If you enjoy books that blend action with thought-provoking themes, The Executive’s Secret is a must-read
Reader Review 5
Intriguing and Suspenseful!
Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2025
The Executive’s Secret is a story that draws the reader into a world that most will never know, hear about, and most certainly not live.
Andrew Semple’s life as an International Business Executive and his extensive research and consultations with intelligence operatives has clearly shown through his writing style and developing a story filled with intrigue and suspense.
Andrew Semple draws his readers into the life of a man navigating between a perilous journey of sacrifices, truths, lies, secrets, and a life filled with duality. The development of the main character, those that were involved in the dangers, and the life he lived was well-written, building the suspense as the chapters unfolded, telling of this man who was living a double life while holding the fate of the world and his family in his hands.
The author’s passion is evident in telling of the sacrifices others make, unbeknownst to many and to those that are closest to them – the families that stand beside them through absences, through the betrayals, through the alliances, and through the many webs of relationships that have been lived and endured over the years. I love to read stories filled with suspense, and the author, Andrew Semple delivered his readers a story that will not disappoint
Reader Review 6
Thought-Provoking!
Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2025
The Executive’s Secret is a thrilling, suspenseful dive into the real weight and risk of espionage. As someone who comes from a military and law enforcement family, I have a great appreciation for the risk and self-sacrifice involved in protecting national security and the safety of American citizens, but Andrew M. Semple gave readers an inside view of the real psychological burden faced by those who work on our behalf in total secret. We think of military members potentially making the ultimate sacrifice, but it never occurred to me that those who engage in clandestine careers make the ultimate sacrifice no matter what. Their lives are forever changed and unrecoverable.
- Semple did an excellent job painting a vivid picture of the psychological burden experienced by someone who might try to leave this line of work. I have a degree in psychology, so I found Alex’s inner battle fascinating. The Executive’s Secret is fast-paced, suspenseful, and thrilling. I highly recommend the book to anyone looking for a thrilling adventure or looking to better understand the real and pervasive sacrifice made on our behalf by real covert operatives.
Numerous Amazon Reviews
Customer reviews
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8 out of 5
27 global ratings
From the United States
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - Very EntertainingReviewed in the United States on March 5, 2025
Andrew M. Semple’s The Executive’s Secret is a gripping corporate thriller that delves into the high-stakes world of business, ambition, and deception. The novel follows Alex, a rising executive who uncovers a powerful secret that could either propel him to the top or destroy everything he has worked for. Semple crafts an engaging narrative filled with unexpected twists, corporate intrigue, and a deep exploration of the moral dilemmas that come with success. - One of the novel’s strongest aspects is its pacing. From the very first chapter, Semple pulls the reader into a fast-moving world where boardroom politics are just as dangerous as backroom deals. Alex’s journey is compelling, as he navigates a web of secrets, power struggles, and personal sacrifices. The author does an excellent job of developing tension, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
- Semple also excels at creating realistic characters, particularly Alex, whose internal conflict adds depth to the story. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, with each character playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama with the influence of Tom Clancy. The novel’s themes of ambition, ethics, and the cost of success resonate long after the final page.
- For readers who enjoy thrillers with a corporate edge, The Executive’s Secret is a must-read. Semple’s sharp writing and intricate storytelling make this a standout novel in the genre. It’s a thought-provoking and entertaining book that keeps you guessing until the very end.
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• Kara
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A fast-paced thriller filled with secrets and intrigueReviewed in the United States on March 7, 2025
"The price was high but the reward was immeasurable" - What a beautifully written journey, detailing the life and supposed retirement of agent by day, family man by night. Filled with danger, secrecy, national security, and betrayal, The Executive's Secret paints a beautiful, often anachronistic picture of a comfortable suburban family life versus a high stakes dangerous professional life.
- The author's incredible story telling and beautiful prose describe every day scenes - an office space, a quiet morning, etc.- with as much care and detail as he does the scenes wrought with tension and growing unease.
- The story is described as a fictional account based on an amalgam of true events and what results is something straight out of the best spy thriller. The author truly captured how difficult it would be to switch roles, be different people within the same life - an actual double life - trying to be a good husband, dad, family man while simultaneously working in what could be considered one of the most if not the most dangerous profession.
- The second half of The Executive's Secret really demonstrates the impossibility of attempting to "retire" and transition to a normal civilian life while emphasizing the importance of therapy and addressing one's mental health.
- A quick and powerful read, filled with something for every reader.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A thrilling, immersive reading experience!Reviewed in the United States on March 12, 2025
The Executive’s Secret is a gripping, immersive experience and is a truly compelling read that delivers on every level. - From the first page, I was captivated by Alex Banner's life. The author masterfully weaves a tale of deception and personal sacrifice, where every decision carries immense weight. The tension is relentless, and the moral ambiguity Alex faces is both compelling and heartbreaking. The narrative seamlessly blends high-stakes with deeply human moments, forcing you to question the true cost of duty. The complex characters, the intricate plot, and the evocative prose create an unforgettable reading experience. This book isn't just a thriller; it's a profound exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the sacrifices made in the shadows. The story is also based on true events, which makes it all the more exciting to read.
- A must-read for anyone who loves a story that stays with you long after you turn the final page.
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- 4.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - Couldn't Put it Down!Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2025
From the very first sentence, The Executive’s Secret had me hooked. The author’s dedication reveals that the story is based on true events, which only heightens the thrill and authenticity of the narrative. While this book delivers everything a fan of espionage thrillers could want—suspense, high-stakes action, and intricate deception—it also goes beyond the genre’s typical boundaries, delving into the deeply personal and emotional toll of being a spy. - What sets this novel apart is how it explores the sacrifices that come with a life of espionage. It’s not just about the danger the protagonist, Alex, faces; it’s about the ripple effect his choices have on his loved ones. The book forces readers to consider the personal cost of secrecy, deception, and duty—things we rarely dwell on when watching action-packed spy films. Semple’s writing is rich with detail and emotion, making every decision Alex makes feel weighty and consequential.
- Another standout aspect of the novel is its unpredictability. I love books that keep me on my toes, and The Executive’s Secret did exactly that. Just when I thought I had figured out where the story was going, a twist would completely change the game. The surprises are not just thrown in for shock value; they are carefully woven into the narrative, making the story even more compelling.
- Whether you're a longtime fan of spy thrillers or simply looking for a novel that blends intrigue with emotional depth, The Executive’s Secret is a must-read. It offers a perfect balance of action, suspense, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a book that lingers in your mind long after you turn the final page.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A Gripping, Expertly Crafted Tug-of-War Between Past and PresentReviewed in the United States on March 11, 2025
There’s a weight to living between two worlds—one foot in the past, where chaos was familiar, and one in the present, where stability feels strangely unsteady. The Executive's Secret by Andrew Semple explores this liminal space—the uneasy middle ground between duty and normalcy, between who we were and who we’re trying to become. - Alex Banner is a man defined by secrets, caught between the shadows of his past and the deceptive quiet of daily life. His struggle isn’t just about espionage or loyalty—it’s about identity. How do you exist when survival is no longer the driving force? How do you reconcile a life lived on the edge with a world that no longer demands the same from you?
- Semple doesn’t offer easy answers. The middle ground isn’t safe; it’s where ghosts linger, where memories refuse to fade. Yet, this is where the true battle lies—not in erasing the past, but in learning to live with it. The book is about the cost of service, but even more, it’s about what comes after.
- For anyone who has ever felt caught between their past and their future, this book is deeply resonant. It reminds us that peace isn’t found in forgetting but in embracing the full story of who we are—the chaos, the quiet, the contradictions. The middle may never feel entirely safe, but perhaps, in accepting it, we find something greater than safety. We find peace.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - Thought-Provoking!Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2025
The Executive’s Secret is a thrilling, suspenseful dive into the real weight and risk of espionage. As someone who comes from a military and law enforcement family, I have a great appreciation for the risk and self-sacrifice involved in protecting national security and the safety of American citizens, but Andrew M. Semple gave readers an inside view of the real psychological burden faced by those who work on our behalf in total secret. We think of military members potentially making the ultimate sacrifice, but it never occurred to me that those who engage in clandestine careers make the ultimate sacrifice no matter what. Their lives are forever changed and unrecoverable. - Semple did an excellent job painting a vivid picture of the psychological burden experienced by someone who might try to leave this line of work. I have a degree in psychology, so I found Alex’s inner battle fascinating. The Executive’s Secret is fast-paced, suspenseful, and thrilling. I highly recommend the book to anyone looking for a thrilling adventure or looking to better understand the real and pervasive sacrifice made on our behalf by real covert operatives.
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• E.M.D.
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - Keeps you on your toesReviewed in the United States on March 16, 2025
The Executive’s Secret by Author Andrew M. Semple is full of interest and intrigue. The main character had his share external battles, but his internal battles were even more difficult to face. With the strong bond with his family, he was able to face them and settle the war in his mind. - The lead gave up a life of espionage for a life of everyday family activities and owning his own business. But will he be able to make that change permanent? He had to step back into the life of being a spy when his family was threatened. The story keeps you reading to see what happens next.
- Waying options of trusting those he knows or those who could turn on him was a matter of life and death. After years of training and always being on edge, will the main character be able to settle down with his family and be happy? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A 100% recommended readReviewed in the United States on March 14, 2025
I loved this book! - I’m already a big fan of spy thrillers and The Executive’s Secret is another great edition to the genre. This is one of those books that will hook you on page one.
- Readers follow Alex, a spy that just wants to retire – as he tries to do that. But Alex quickly learns that it isn’t so easy to reintegrate into normal life and that the one he’s left behind isn’t willing to let him go so easily.
- I appreciated how much of a psychological thriller this book was and that it didn’t just rely on action. This story is grounded in Alex’s emotions and turmoil, especially his vulnerability. I can’t name that many books where a male protagonist tries therapy but I wish I could. What makes this book even better is the preface from the author that this book is based on true events – just makes it that much more intriguing. I’d follow Alex anywhere and I’ll definitely be reading this one again.
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• Chad RR
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - Perfect Book for Mystery Fans Who Love Secrets and SuspenseReviewed in the United States on March 13, 2025
Alex has spent years carrying secrets most people couldn’t imagine. On the outside, he’s a successful executive, but there’s a whole other side of his life no one sees. Now, he just wants a fresh start—but some things aren’t that simple. The past has a way of catching up, and not every choice comes without consequences. - What I really liked about this book is how real Alex’s struggles feel. It’s not just about the mystery and suspense—it’s about someone who’s lived in the shadows trying to step into the light. Every chapter has this tension, not just from what’s happening around him but from the personal battles he’s dealing with. You can really feel the weight of his choices, his regrets, and that constant pull between the life he wants and the one he’s known.
- If you like mystery stories with high stakes, danger, and a main character who keeps you on edge, this one’s definitely worth reading.
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- 4.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A TALE OF ESPIONAGE YOU CAN READ IN A DAY Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2025
I love a book I can read in an afternoon! My Kindle estimated it would take me 3 hours and 39 minutes to read The Executive’s Secret. It may have taken me a little longer than that, but definitely could be done in a day (or even in one sitting) if you were looking for something to bring on the plane or on a road trip. - My brain always compares books I’m reading to movies I’ve seen, and this one felt a little bit like a John Wick movie. There’s espionage and plans gone wrong and a healthy dose of looking over your shoulder. And where the John Wick parallel comes in: there’s the protagonist wanting to leave that life behind. (I’m not giving anything away by telling you this, as the author makes that clear from the first chapter.)
- The book resonated with me because while I have never worked in a life quite as exciting or clandestine as that of Alex, I did once work in a pretty exciting field and left that behind to “be more domestic.” I could really identify with Alex’s boredom and the pull for an old life, the questioning of whether you did the right thing. Not a ton of character development, but it feels as if the author is just telling you a story about his friend Alex. No extra details needed!
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A Thrilling Double LifeReviewed in the United States on March 17, 2025
This book is a captivating read. It follows Alex Banner, a business executive secretly entangled in covert operations while trying to balance his family life. The story does a great job showing the weight of his double life, the tough choices, the secrets, and how it all affects the people closest to him. If you enjoy spy thrillers with a personal touch, this one's worth picking up!
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - Highly Recommended!!Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2025
A MUST Read! The Executive's Secret is an intriguing exploration of duality and moral conflict, following Alex Banner, a successful business executive living a secret life as an international spy. With a masterful blend of suspense and introspection, the novel delves into the high stakes of living between two worlds—one of loyalty to family, the other of hidden espionage!
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• KP
- 4.0 out of 5 stars
- Engaging must-read thriller!Reviewed in the United States on March 14, 2025
This was such an engaging and fast-paced thriller from a clever writer. Though I’ve read many mysteries and who-dunits, a novel about a double agent immersed in the business world was a new adventure and made for suspenseful reading. The main character, a businessman by day and spy by night, battles a multitude of moral dilemmas while protecting his family. In this riveting story based on real-life circumstances, the reader is hooked from page one and keeps running into unexpected twists and turns that make it hard to put down. I found the characters to be realistic enough as they battle various conflicts around the themes of ambition, family, success and secrets. It reminds me a bit of a Tom Clancy novel and would be a great read for any Clancy fans out there. I also found the ethical challenges thought provoking and at times wondered how I would respond in that same situation. For those readers who enjoy a good thriller, this one has it all - suspense, sacrifice, struggle, betrayal, loyalty. There's enough tension to keep you engaged while not feeling fake or outlandish. And I definitely wouldn't have minded an extra chapter or two! The Executive's Secret is a powerful novel that makes for unforgettable reading!
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4.0 out of 5 stars
- A Gripping, Well-Crafted Story of Twists and Moral DilemmasReviewed in the United States on March 12, 2025
The Executive's Secret is a captivating corporate thriller that takes readers deep into the cutthroat world of business, ambition, and betrayal. The story centers around Alex, an ambitious executive who stumbles upon a dangerous secret with the power to either catapult him to success or shatter everything he's built. With shocking twists, corporate manipulation, and a thought-provoking exploration of the ethical challenges that come with climbing the corporate ladder, this novel keeps you on the edge of your seat. - One of the standout features of the novel is its pacing. It’s relentless, keeping the tension high and the story gripping from start to finish. Alex is caught in a web of secrets, power struggles, and personal sacrifices, and the stakes never let up. The characters are well-crafted and authentically relatable in their own unique ways. No character feels unnecessary—they all serve a purpose in driving the story forward. If you’re a fan of thrillers, this is a must-read. It’s the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you've turned the last page.
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• L.E.A.
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Thrilling, Witty, and Dangerously Mysterious!Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2025
I was in the mood to read something that I felt my grandpa would like, too, as a way of feeling closer to him so many years after he passed away. The set-up of THE EXECUTIVE'S SECRET and the fact that it's based loosely on true events remains something my grandpa would've loved, especially with the author's writing style, showcasing Tom Clancy meets Dan Brown vibes. - The story is intense and evocative as readers follow executive Alex Banner looking back on his life. Shielding his family from all the danger and secrets his days TRULY entailed provided a heart-wrenching but beautiful undertone to his entire journey. His character speaks to the sacrifices and decisions we all make to protect the ones we love and also act in the best way we know how to survive, thrive, and succeed. The mystery and twists along the way speaks to Semple's astute understanding of his genre and his craft. The tension and suspense are well-paced, thoughtful, and executed poetically.
- While I noted some similarities Semple shares with other literary greats, I just want to articulate that Semple himself is in a league of his own. He brings humanity to his characters and nuanced details that illuminate the whole story he's telling in a way that feels authentic/one-of-a-kind. The narration is emotional and witty; relatable and, yet, sensational.
- I want to know how true the TRUE parts of this story are. THE EXECUTIVE'S SECRET creates mystery in its title, but that mystery follows readers long after you've finished the book. How many of us are walking around with secrets that protect others? How many of us hold on to things for the duration of our lives because no one would believe us if we shared them?
- If you like suspense, thrill, adventure, introspection, and wit included in a knock-out twisty story, this book is for you. I cannot wait for more Andrew Semple reads. This book was delivered quickly to me and in great condition. It's safely on my library shelf waiting for the re-read it's going to get soon.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Intriguing and Suspenseful!Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2025
The Executive’s Secret is a story that draws the reader into a world that most will never know, hear about, and most certainly not live. - Andrew Semple’s life as an International Business Executive and his extensive research and consultations with intelligence operatives has clearly shown through his writing style and developing a story filled with intrigue and suspense.
- Andrew Semple draws his readers into the life of a man navigating between a perilous journey of sacrifices, truths, lies, secrets, and a life filled with duality. The development of the main character, those that were involved in the dangers, and the life he lived was well-written, building the suspense as the chapters unfolded, telling of this man who was living a double life while holding the fate of the world and his family in his hands.
- The author’s passion is evident in telling of the sacrifices others make, unbeknownst to many and to those that are closest to them – the families that stand beside them through absences, through the betrayals, through the alliances, and through the many webs of relationships that have been lived and endured over the years. I love to read stories filled with suspense, and the author, Andrew Semple delivered his readers a story that will not disappoint.
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• Customer
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- A thrilling journey.Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2025
In the novel, The Executive’s Secret, the author showcases a man on a journey of self-discovery. A man trying to reconcile his past self with his present situation. From leading a double life to trying to find a balance and some resemblance of peace with his current and future evolving sense of self. In trying to reconnect and forge new relationships with his family, the author does a great job of portraying the struggles that not only Alex had to endure, but the struggles also endured by his family as well, all due to the double life Alex was leading. - The story is well paced and invites the reader on a journey full of intrigue, plot twists, character development, and an ever-evolving search for inner peace and reconciliation of one’s past self with the desire for a different future. From enduring the struggle of trying to transition his lifestyle, reconnecting and appreciating his family, as well as finding a balance between his past and present self, Alex’s story takes the reader on quite a journey.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Captivating From the BeginningReviewed in the United States on March 16, 2025
The Executive's Secret captivated me from the opening line. The author notes that the narrative draws from real-life events, adding excitement and credibility. This book offers all the elements that fans of espionage thrillers crave—suspense, intense action, and complex deceit. Yet, it transcends typical genre boundaries by examining the intimate and emotional costs of being a spy. What truly distinguishes this novel is its focus on the sacrifices inherent in a life of espionage. It's not merely about the peril Alex, the protagonist, encounters; it's also about the far-reaching impact of his decisions on those he loves. The story compels readers to reflect on the personal toll of secrecy, deception, and duty—issues often overlooked in the spectacle of action-packed spy movies. Semple's writing is packed with detail and emotion, making every choice Alex faces feel significant and impactful. Another remarkable feature of the novel is its unpredictability. I enjoy stories that keep me guessing, and The Executive's Secret delivered. Just when I thought I had the plot figured out, new twists would completely change the narrative. The surprises are not only frequent but also.
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• Britt W
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Thought ProvokingReviewed in the United States on March 12, 2025
I just finished The Executive's Secret by Andrew M. Semple, and wow, what a ride. On the surface, Alex Banner seems like a typical successful business exec, balancing work and family. But as the story unfolds, you realize he’s secretly been involved in international espionage for over two decades. The tension between his two worlds is intense. - What really struck me was the emotional toll of living with so many secrets. Alex is constantly torn between his loyalty to his family and his duty to a cause much bigger than himself. The author does an excellent job showing the personal cost of leading such a double life. It’s like you’re right there with Alex, feeling the weight of every decision.
- This story dives into themes of sacrifice, trust, and moral gray areas. I couldn’t put it down, and the ending left me thinking about the tough choices we all make in life. Definitely a gripping, thought-provoking read.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Secrets and SacrificeReviewed in the United States on March 6, 2025
"The Executive’s Secret" by Andrew M. Semple is a heartfelt tribute to those who live in the shadows, making impossible choices for the greater good—a deep dive into the unseen battles fought by people whose sacrifices go unnoticed by the world. - As someone who has worked in high-stress environments as an educator, I found myself drawn to the theme of silent struggle. Just like educators and caregivers work tirelessly behind the scenes to shape futures, the figures in this book work to protect stability—often at a great personal cost. Their efforts may not make headlines, but their impact is undeniable, shaping the world in ways most will never fully understand.
- The dedication at the beginning of the book alone sets the tone for a story that isn’t just about excitement—it’s about honoring those who live with the burden of responsibility. Semple brings these hidden stories to life with a sense of realism that makes the weight of each decision feel personal. If you enjoy books that blend action with thought-provoking themes, The Executive’s Secret is a must-read.
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- More than just an executiveReviewed in the United States on March 10, 2025
I received this book as a gift and I was pleasantly surprised at how well the author captured the protagonist’s humanity and willingness to change in a deep and meaningful way. I found the main character to be super relatable and inspiring. I think that this is a great short read that touches on the struggles of finding balance and meaning in life in a creative and interesting way that is perfect for anybody who is looking to evolve.
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• Emma S
- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Must Read!Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2025
Great Read! - The pacing is well-balanced, keeping the suspense high without sacrificing character development. What truly sets this book apart is its exploration of the personal cost of a double life. Alex’s internal struggle adds weight to the action, making it more than just a spy novel—it’s a deep dive into loyalty, sacrifice, and identity. A must read!
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Worth the read!Reviewed in the United States on March 9, 2025
Great read!
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- 5.0 out of 5 stars
Verified Purchase - A love letter to the real-life 007sReviewed in the United States on March 16, 2025
Andrew M. Semple writes a thrilling yet thoughtful love letter to “the architects of stability, the keepers of secrets, [and] the protectors of the innocent” in his novel, The Executive’s Secret. - Alex Banner is trying to enjoy his supposed retirement, but it isn’t coming easily. Years of living a double life weigh heavily on him, and suburban life isn’t as easy as it once seemed. Beautiful prose expertly weaves Banner’s two worlds together, marking how his career in espionage shapes how he interacts with the world around him, painting everything in a vaguely sinister light.
- When someone from his past contacts him, the carefully constructed life Banner has worked tirelessly to put together crumbles instantly.
- This book wastes no time breaking into a sprint and keeps up that pace until the end. It’s quick, impactful, and great for anyone looking to live vicariously through someone wholly intertwined with a dangerous world of duality and secrets. I hope I’m not spoiling anything when I say I would happily spend more time in Alex Banner’s world, but also desperately just want him to be able to enjoy his retirement.