Deep Black is a 2004 novel written by Andy McNab

Andy McNab

Sergeant ‘Andy McNab’ DCM MM is the pseudonym of an English novelist and former SAS operative and soldier.McNab came into public prominence in 1993, when he published his account of the failed Special Air Service patrol, Bravo Two Zero for which he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in...

 featuring the fictional character Nick Stone

Nick Stone (Andy McNab character)

Nick Stone is the main fictional character in a series of books written by Andy McNab, who is an ex-member of British Army regiment the SAS. Andy McNab has written about Nick Stone in thirteen different books...

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Plot introduction

After running into an old friend whose life he saved 10 years earlier.. Nick Stone is persuaded to go to Baghdad to help his old friend with a project, until he realises he is being used as bait to get to a man whom countries will stop at nothing to destroy.

Critical reception

A Harrow Observer

Harrow Observer

The Harrow Observer is a paid-for local weekly tabloid newspaper covering stories from the London Borough of Harrow. It has separate editions for Pinner, Harrow and Stanmore...

 reviwer described the novel as an "unforgettable story" from its "violent and shocking opening" that includes "vivid, lightning-paced action". A Sunday Times

The Sunday Times

The Sunday Times is a British Sunday newspaper.The Sunday Times may also refer to:*The Sunday Times *The Sunday Times *The Sunday Times *The Sunday Times...

 reviewer said that "it’s not one of his strongest efforts" and that "too much of the novel consists of aimless linking material or unconvincing attempts at atmosphere". Robert Hanks of The Independent

The Independent

The Independent is a British national morning newspaper published in London by Independent Print Limited, owned by Alexander Lebedev since 2010. It is nicknamed the Indy, while the Sunday edition, The Independent on Sunday, is the Sindy. Launched in 1986, it is one of the youngest UK national daily...

stated that "the plot strains credibility, and the terse, slangy prose is sometimes repetitive".