Date: 2025-05-01 Page is: DBtxt003.php txt00028293
BOOK REVIEW
Phantom Orbit by David Ignatius
Review by Clay Westcott
Phantom Orbit by David Ignatius
Review by Clay Westcott
Original article: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7444835586
Peter Burgess COMMENTARY
I read very little 'fiction'. For me there is enough excitement in the global real world and I have no real need of additional stimulation.
I have archived this review by Clay Westcott about a book written by David Ignatius because I am a long time aquaintance of Clay Westcott ... going back perhaps as much as 40 years!
I am surprised Clay knows I am still alive! Maybe he doesn't!
Peter Burgess
Phantom Orbit by David Ignatius
Clay Wescott's review ... really liked it
Mar 29, 2025
David Ignatius, a seasoned journalist with the Washington Post and author, has long been celebrated for his ability to weave real-world geopolitical issues into compelling spy thrillers. In Phantom Orbit, Ignatius ventures into the realm of space warfare and espionage, delivering a novel that is both timely and ambitious. While the book grapples with complex themes of international relations and technological advancements, its execution is uneven, leaving readers with mixed impressions.
The story spans decades, following the life of Ivan Volkov, a Russian physics prodigy who begins his academic journey in Beijing. Volkov's expertise in satellite technology places him at the center of a geopolitical chess match involving Russia, China, and the United States. The narrative intertwines Volkov’s personal struggles—his family tragedies and disillusionment with Russia—with broader themes of espionage and technological warfare. The plot culminates during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, where Volkov risks his life to contact the CIA with critical information about vulnerabilities in satellite systems. Ignatius uses this backdrop to explore the strategic importance of space technologies like GPS and communication satellites. The novel’s climax delivers a tense portrayal of covert operations, showcasing the intricacies of modern espionage without relying on typical action-packed tropes.
One of the novel's strengths is its topical relevance. Ignatius excels at embedding current events into his narrative, making Phantom Orbit feel urgent and prescient. The inclusion of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the geopolitical implications of satellite warfare adds depth to the story. Additionally, Ignatius's research into satellite systems and space operations is evident throughout the book. He explains complex scientific concepts in accessible terms, making them integral to the plot rather than overwhelming. This approach lends credibility to the narrative and highlights Ignatius's ability to blend technical accuracy with engaging storytelling. However, the novel also has several weaknesses. Much of the first 300 pages feels unnecessarily drawn out. Ignatius devotes significant time to backstory and character development that often detracts from the central plot. Ivan disappears from the narrative for long stretches, creating a fragmented reading experience. Furthermore, while Volkov’s personal journey adds emotional weight to the narrative, other characters—like Edith Ryan, a CIA operative—lack depth or relevance to the main storyline. Subplots such as Edith’s #MeToo incident feel disconnected from the book’s core themes, contributing to the disjointedness of the narrative.
In comparison to other works in both fiction and non-fiction, Phantom Orbit offers a unique blend of technical realism and geopolitical intrigue. Ignatius’ previous novels, such as The Quantum Spy, delve into similar themes of technological competition between global powers but maintain tighter pacing and more engaging character dynamics. Compared to authors like John le Carré or Frederick Forsyth, Ignatius’ focus on technical realism is unique but lacks their mastery of suspenseful storytelling. Non-fiction books like The Perfect Weapon by David E. Sanger explore cyberwarfare and geopolitical tensions with greater analytical depth but lack the narrative flair found in Ignatius’ work. Phantom Orbit bridges fiction and reality effectively but does not offer as much insight as dedicated non-fiction accounts.
Ultimately, Phantom Orbit is an ambitious novel that tackles critical issues at the intersection of geopolitics and technology. Its strengths lie in its topical relevance, technical accuracy, and realistic portrayal of espionage. However, pacing problems, underdeveloped characters, and a delayed payoff detract from its overall impact. For readers interested in modern spy thrillers with a focus on real-world issues, Phantom Orbit offers valuable insights but requires patience to navigate its uneven structure. While not Ignatius’ best work, it remains a thought-provoking exploration of space as an emerging domain of conflict—a theme that may resonate deeply as global tensions continue to evolve. Thanks to my dear friend Cindy who brought the book to me when I was in the hospital last month.