Patrick Byrne, a self-made American entrepreneur best known for founding Overstock.com, has recently released his bestseller Danger Close, a compelling fusion of entrepreneurial insight and covert government operations. In this book, Byrne reveals an astonishing twist—his secret role as an operative for the U.S. Government, which he disclosed in August 2019. His credentials are underscored by accolades such as being named the “National Entrepreneur of the Year 2011” and the “Messiah of Bitcoin.” The forward, written by Maria Butina, an accused Russian spy and victim of alleged deep state violence, adds another layer of intrigue and credibility to the narrative, touching upon themes of government manipulation and the quest for truth.
The term “danger close” in military parlance indicates the proximity of an enemy—an apt title for Byrne’s exploration of the so-called deep state, a phenomenon that transcends political affiliations and strikes at the heart of integrity and truth. What sets Byrne apart is not merely his successes as a billionaire but his commitment to these values, illustrated by his resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As a child, his unique upbringing allowed him to engage with influential figures like Warren Buffett, laying a foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit, which would later see him create and manage successful businesses, including one sparked from creatively selling leftover Christmas trees.
Byrne’s journey takes a sharp turn as he begins to confront the entrenched interests on Wall Street that he believes endanger the nation’s economic integrity. His mission transcends personal ambition and is imbued with a patriotic purpose: to expose the truths hidden beneath the surface of America’s political and financial landscape. Danger Close serves not only as an engaging narrative but as an immersive experience, pulling readers into a world reminiscent of a spy thriller. As he navigates interactions with senators, FBI agents, and other influential figures, Byrne uncovers the common enemies of truth, illustrating the manipulation and deceit that threaten the democratic process.
The richness of Danger Close stems from Byrne’s life experiences, which lend authenticity to his claims about the political machinations at play. His portrayal of the deep state sheds light on the substantial forces that influence public perception and electoral outcomes, particularly in an election year. Yet, despite the weighty topics, Byrne maintains a thrilling pace akin to a real-life James Bond adventure. His narrative shines a spotlight on events such as the alleged setup of former President Donald Trump, presenting harrowing accounts of manipulation orchestrated by powerful entities within the government.
Moreover, Byrne’s tenure as the former CEO of Overstock.com positions him as both an insider and an outsider in the world of finance, challenging unethical practices such as short selling and naked short selling that he believes create an unfair environment for investors. His endeavors to unveil Wall Street’s corrupt practices have culminated in significant legal actions, including a substantial investigation into the industry’s malpractices. This fierce dedication underscores his role as a defender of the average investor, positioning him as the "sheepdog" in a landscape often dominated by predatory "wolves."
In conclusion, Danger Close is more than just a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue; it’s a clarion call to recognize and combat the subtle forces that threaten our democracy and integrity. As a book club pick or for individual readers, it offers not just an adventure but insights into the heart of contemporary political and financial complexities. In an era where the concept of patriotism is frequently diluted, Patrick Byrne emerges as a quintessential figure who embodies the true essence of loyalty and justice. By engaging with this book, readers are invited to reflect on the truths of their political realities, understand the implications of the deep state, and be inspired to uphold the values of accountability and integrity in their own lives.