Extraction

US Marshal Dirk Sterling #1

by Jodi Burnett

A US Marshal Thriller

All Deputy US Marshal, Dirk Sterling’s instincts warn him not to trust his new boss, Chief Emory Grey. In the few weeks Dirk has known her, Grey has already lied to him and is proving to something other than she seems.

Grey tasks Sterling with heading up a Federal Task Force to hunt down an international smuggler suspected of crossing the US border carrying an invaluable ancient artifact. US intel points to the sale of this priceless relic as source funding for worldwide terrorism.

Will Dirk and his team of specialists recover the stolen artifact before it becomes the lynchpin of global destruction?

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Genres: Thriller, Mystery

292 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 11, 2023

About the author

Jodi Burnett is a Colorado native and a mountain girl at heart. She loves writing Mystery and Suspense Thrillers from her small ranch southeast of Denver, where she lives with her husband and their two big dogs. There she dotes on her horses, complains about her cows, and writes to create a home for her imaginings. Burnett is a member of Novelists, Inc. and Sisters in Crime. Connect with Jodi at jodi@jodi-burnett.com, on Facebook @ JodiBurnettAuthor, on Instagram @ JodiBurnettAuthor, or on Twitter @ Jodi_writes. Get free books by Burnett on her website.

https://jodi-burnett.com

https://linktr.ee/JodiBurnett

Reviews

[Yin Wah · Rating 5 out of 5]

An old religion that has been slowly fading away over the decades, one man trying to make attempts to bring it back into people's lives, to make it known, to punish people of the way modern life has taken them, for not believing in the goddess.
He took great care in plans to revive the old religion, became obsessed.
Turns out his plans were very terrorist like.
Never ends well for terrorists.
Great read 👍👍

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review. Extraction is the first book in Jodi Burnett’s US Marshal Dirk Sterling series. Dirk Sterling is a character from Jodi’s last series Tin Star K9 series but that is where the crossover ends. The characters are well developed and intriguing while the story is complicated, detailed and action packed. It was a totally different thriller storyline which while unexpected was not unappealing. I’m looking forward to the next book to see how Dirk and his cases continue to evolve.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodi Burnett kicks off this first book in a new thriller series with a bang. We know the villain from the outset, but the chase is on to keep him from being successful in carrying out his mission. We also learn a little about Hittite mythology as it relates to an important artifact that plays a central role in the story.

The reader becomes reacquainted with a few people from her previous books, but it is not necessary to read them first. The author does an excellent job in introducing new characters and helping us get to know them.

This story takes us to cities around the globe in pursuit of the cut-throat killer who has no qualms about disposing of those who stand in the way of completing his task. There are lighter moments between the agents involved in the hunt that help relieve the tension and give the reader a moment to breathe.

If you enjoy a good thriller, you will love this book.

I received an advance copy from the author with no promise of a positive review. However, I got so caught up in this story that I read it in one day and decided to purchase a copy to keep in my library.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Us Marshall Dirk Sterling ‘s instincts warn him not to trust his new boss Chief Emory Grey. She sends Dirk on a hunt to find a international smuggler suspected of crossing the US border carrying ancient artifacts. The FBI feel he is on a terrorist mission. A gripping thriller which is fast-pace and full of suspense from the start. I received this book free and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[JustJeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in a trilogy about US Deputy Marshall Dirk Sterling (love the name!) and the team he works with, his boss of the US Marshall’s unit, Chief Emory Grey and his partner, Hank. The author creatively provides background, current life events, and emotional status about their career choices for all characters. First, the foundation of the plot begins, giving all the necessary information the reader needs to settle in for an intriguing, dramatic, whirlwind story.

The characters are introduced, the stage is set, and the plot begins across the world as a man leaves his family to fulfill the mission his group believes is necessary to save the world. He believes he has perfected every stage of his mission as he reaches the states. The US Marshall’s in Montana are requested to join the FBI in an attempt to thwart the man’s final goal. The writing is beautifully descriptive, and the writing style jumps back and forth between two sets of people that you know will eventually crash together. The characters are portrayed brilliantly, and the obstacles that they need to overcome are crafted wonderfully. This gripping plot has everything from deception and secrets to suspense and surprises. I am looking forward to the next book in this trilogy. I received a complimentary ARC, but I am voluntarily offering my personal opinion.

[Dee Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my opinion, when I first started reading Extraction, I was bored. It started slow, but once I got into the book, it was probably three or four chapters I got into this book. It had a couple of unexpected items happen. I did not expect it to end the way it did. Excellent book, yes I recommend the book. If you feel the beginning is slow just keep plugging along. It will get exciting and action packed. I like the new kid on the block. He is also did something very surprising. He saved the day along with dark, Dirk was his usual self. Diving in before thinking.

[Michael Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jody Burnett is a very prolific writer. Her series of K-9 books. were really good. Extraction is no exception. I found the main character, Dirk. Very exciting. and a real Mustang. This story began long ago. in a Hittite religion. The plot begins in Turkey and goes all around the world. There was lots of drama included. and it was a really good read. I recommend this book. For all who like real thrillers. I can't give away any more information. Because it would ruin the readers of the book

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good start to series with timely story

I was introduced to this author by receiving ARCs of her earlier work. Enjoyed it so much that have now read all of her books. This one starts a new series that is a spin-off of sorts from her Tin Star K9 series.
This series focuses on the US Marshal office in Billings Montana and Marshal Dirk Sterling. This book has Dirk and his fellow agents hunting an international terrorist from Turkey across the world. As they chase him, they learn of the man's mission and try to keep him from completing it. Lots of action and very timely look at divisions in the world today.

[Kathy Idleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodi did it again! Will the handsome US Marshall Dirk Stirling have a relationship with his boss Emory Grey, or will he stay with his late partners family? He also has taken on a young partner and has to show him the ropes and fight crime. His plate is really full. This book I never wanted to end, but we will have to wait and see what happens next.

[Cecelia Gardon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me riveted from page two. The characters were well written, believable and had great personality. The plot was heartbreaking but fit well with the story. I had just attended a lecture about post rescue of sex slaves and their treatment and care process. This was spot-on. I read the whole book in one sitting.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

This new series by a favorite author is off to a great start. The characters and the plot were the kind that keep you unable to put the book down. Looking forward to book two.

[Edith Meza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed

This book was very different from her other books, but she is a talented author, and this story, well researched, will keep you up till you finish reading it. A lot of stuff going on, and you are right there.

[Stevan Thorpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

What an amazing start for a new series! Looks like Dirk has his hands full with his new boss. I'm really looking forward to Dirk's new adventures.

[Pat Norling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started the K9 series and fell in love with all the characters

While waiting for the the K9 series to continue , I started this series on Dirk Sterling, US Marshall. Now I’m hooked on this new author Jodi Burnett and wanting more of her great books.

[Rosanne Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

cliff hanger

Ms Burnett keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout her books. I cannot put the book down until I see what happens. Amazing!!!

[MGB · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's an old religion, so ancient most people don't even know it exists. Yet it is significant for the story because of zealots who want to impose their beliefs on non-believers.

You bring evil to Montana and Dirk is on it. Tracking down these zealots requires his entire office and the team pulls together as a force to be reckoned with. Doesn't hurt to have family which is also trying to stop the zealot.

An action packed story with subtle hints a romance. Certainly a pleasant summer diversion.

[Nashonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the “thriller” parts and the twist at the end. The author could have kept out the romantic tension between the two primary characters.

[Rebecca Ridley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I am so glad there is a new series with Dirk Sterling as the main character. I loved him in the other series and couldn't wait for something to be written about him. I really like the plot and witty dialogue between characters. Looking forward to the next book in this series.

[Emma Gail Hamlet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great reading

I love all characters but please just go ahead and let Dirk and Emory be a power couple in the Marshall office.And bring Renegade to help some time by this is a spin off from Renegade.

[katherine a Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action Packed

I enjoyed reading this book. It was fast paced, and entertaining. An enjoyable read. I truly recommend this book. Read it today!

[Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Late at night in late 1923 two priest remove twelve holy religious figurines from a hidden location in the ruins of an ancient city. The figurines belong to an ancient brotherhood that honored Wurunsemu, the sun goddess of Arinna. Eleven of the figurines are packed in two wooden boxes with the last, and most precious figure went into a crate by itself. The priest were afraid that the newly established Grand National Assembly of Turkey would claim the holy relics as spoils of victory after overthrowing the Ottoman government. By the time the artifacts are delivered to the priest that will be hiding the figurines in their new location one figure is given away and four people are killed, including the first two priest.

Thus begins the story of how the figure of the sun goddess of Arinna is to be used to honor Wurunsemu 100 years later. As the current leader of the brotherhood Aydin Rahip leaves his home in Turkey, crosses across Europe on his way to the U.S. and Canada to make non-believers pay for the decadence that has infected today's societies. As Aydin travels to his final location he leaves multiple dead bodies in his wake.

Soon after he starts his travel his daughter, Ceylon, finds out that her father has left to fulfill a holy calling that he will not return back from. Ceylon figures out what her father is determined to do and decides that she needs to travel to the United States too stop him from what she has determined is a grave mistake. The problem is that Ceylon has no money and no passport. She starts her journey by contacting the one agency that she believes can help in her quest to stop her father, the FBI.

Since the FBI has determined that Aydin has entered Canada by flying to Vancouver. The FBI believes that Aydin will be crossing into the U.S. Somewhere between Vancouver and the Great Lakes. FBI Special Agent Dave Aldrich is dispatched to Billings, Montana to work with the U.S. Marshals to try and find Aydin. The problem is that no one knows what Aydin plans are or under what name he is traveling under. Aldrich came to Billings to ask Deputy Marshal Streling for his help since has history of being a successful tracker and may need his help in locating Aydin.

Extraction is first of what promises to be a new series of US Marshal thrillers. Author Jodi Burnett has written an enjoyable book on the travels of Aydin on his way to make non-believers pay for their turning away from Arinna, with the help with other true believers he has contacted during his journey. We also read about how Ceylon manages to make her way as well, even without a passport or money to start her journey with. And lastly we learn about the Billings U.S. Marshals that appear will be the main characters in the thrillers sure to follow Extraction.

[Serena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished listening to Extraction by Jodi Burnett. This one and I had a slow-burn relationship. And not the good, romantic kind. The “Can we pick up the pace?” kind. The story starts off like it’s easing me into a warm bath, except I showed up for murder, mayhem, and U.S. Marshals doing cool tactical things.

But around chapter five it finally wakes up, and at 63% complete I was fully invested. The pace picked up, the danger got real, and suddenly I stopped checking how many hours were left.

Dirk and Hank were excellent. Exactly what I want in hero characters: Competent, loyal, a bit battered, and just flawed enough to be interesting. I’d read an entire spin-off about those two grumbling their way through dangerous situations.

Emory, though… I wanted to like her. I tried. But for a Chief in a U.S. Marshals office, she came across far too soft. Sentimental. A little sappy. And yes, I know I lean heavily toward the “tough as nails, emotionally unavailable, drinks strong, black coffee straight from the pot” type of heroine, but still. You don’t get to be Chief by wringing your hands and hoping for the best.

Meanwhile, we have Ceylon crossing oceans, scraping together money, and hell-bent on stopping her father from carrying out a violent mission. Now that is grit. In fact, I kept wishing she had been the central female lead. She had the backbone, the determination, and the emotional complexity that the story was begging for.

Overall I’m glad I stuck with it. The second half delivers the tension and action I expected from page one. It’s not perfect, but it’s engaging once it finds its footing, even if I spent the first chunk wondering whether I accidentally wandered into the wrong audiobook.

If you like heroic men with depth, dangerous missions, and a few emotional detours you didn’t ask for, it’s worth a listen. Just know you’ll need to wade through a slow start before the explosions kick in.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Start of a new series, staring Dirk Sterling who we met in the TIn Star K-9 Series. Caitlyn Reed and Renegade are mentioned. This was completely different then what I expected, Jodi shakes things up starting off overseas with two priests trying to save their sun goddess as war breaks out. We follow the path of a true believer traveling to Germany and Netherlands before heading to Canada and the US. Each stop lays the ground work for something horrific. Dirk and his new partner are tasked with tracking this guy down. As the trail progresses I became a bigger fan of Dirk and I like his new partner, watching him grow through out. I get where Chief Grey is coming from. I was not fond of Laurie, (the widow of Dirks old partner). She seemed stronger in the Tin Start K-9 Series and Dirk saw the signs....I was disappointed in them both. The ground work is laid for the next book with Laurie and Chief Emory Grey to play pivotal parts. I was completely blindsided with that jaw dropping moment, kudos I did not see that coming. Thank you for the arc. I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions. #Extraction #DirkSterlingUSMarshall #SDGPublishing

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chief US Deputy Marshal Emory Grey has worked hard to achieve her success and assignment in Billings, Montana. She will not let the first meeting she had with Deputy US Marshal Dirk Sterling affect her career. A religious extremist in Turkey plans to execute a worldwide attack against what he believes is the moral decay of the world. His daughter Ceylon sends a warning to the FBI from her home in Turkey, but has no idea if they received the information. She will start a difficult journey to reach the United States to try to stop her father. In the meantime, various agencies are scrambling to find the man as he travels from place to place. He will leave death in his wake on the way to his final goal. Emory arrives just in time for the dramatic showdown, but will Dirk be able to stop further deaths and destruction before it is too late? Emory does not want to be attracted to Dirk; she is his boss. He has feelings for Emory, but he also feels a commitment toward the widow and son of his former partner. Stay tuned! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Sharon Sambuca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodi outdid herself in book one of Extraction. A new series with US Marshall, Dirk Sterling.

Reading Extraction is like reading the newspaper. It all seems so real!

In Turkey there is a religious, old-word radical who wants to implement an attacked on the world due to the decline of moral values. Lives all over the world are in danger. Dirk and his team are in grave danger.

Be prepared to be up all night. I dare you to try to put this book down until you have finished. You are there from page one, through the thick of it, until the very last word.

Extraction is the best action-packed thriller I have read in a very long time.

This is by far Jodi's best book. Hopefully with many more in the series.

I have voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are mine

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extraction - US Marshal Dirk Sterling - Book 1, my twelfth read from author Jodi Burnett, who has rapidly become one of my favorite authors. Burnette hits it out of the park with this one. This book continues the trend of well-written, enjoyable books, it caught my attention in the opening pages & I never put it down until completed. Burnett has created a complete world in which her primary characters interact with an ever-expanding world of repeat characters, some very familiar from her other series. "I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more in this series & more from this author, and look forward to CORRUPTION (US Marshal Dirk Sterling Book 2) when it's published in January. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

They’ve met before, and there’s an attraction between US Marshal Dirk Sterling and his new boss, Chief Emory Grey, but both know they can’t act on it. Yet with Dirk on the trail of a suspected terrorist, Emory can’t help but be concerned for his safety.

The more the team learns about the man they’re hunting, the more concerned they become. Many lives are at stake, including Dirk and his team. And just who can you trust?

An action-packed thriller with ties to an old religion and those who still practice it, twists and turns, an unexpected ally with insider knowledge, lies and deceit. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and
opinions are my own.

[David Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed introduction to the Dirk Sterling series.
I was recently offered a review copy of the audiobook of Extraction: US Marshal Dirk Sterling, book 1 and since I was familiar with Dirk’s character from the Caitlyn Reed series – Tin Star K9 – there was no way I was going to turn down the offer. Along with this book being action -packed, the further development of Dirk’s character and the introduction of Chief Marshal Emory Grey and his partner Hank made for a thoroughly entertaining listening experience. This series looks like Jodi Burnett has another hit on her hands and I can’t wait to listen to the next offering in the series, especially if Nick Cracknell is the narrator. Nick does an excellent job with the character voices and his delivery of the story.

[Jacquelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Extraction' began with lots of intrigue and mystery behind modern-day people believing in Wurunsemu, a goddess from the Hittite empire. Unfortunately, a plan to cause ruin and chaos to several Western areas by means of setting off bombs (in the name of their religion) kept the FBI, Homeland Security, and the U.S. Marshals in tracking mode, and, thus, the tension kept mounting. Oh no! There was a twist I didn't see coming! What?!? Moreover, what's with Emory, the Chief Deputy of the U.S. Marshall Service in Montana, and Dirk, a deputy U.S. Marshall? Overall, I liked the energetic narrative.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extraction is the first novel in a new series and has me looking forward to future stories in this series. It is a delightful procedural thriller using the viewpoints of US Marshals, the people they are chasing, and a third party, as well. The characters are well-defined and the action continuous, keeping the reader's attention throughout. In only a couple of instances I found th switching of viewpoints to slightly confuse the timeline but overall the storyline flows smoothly. The romantic elements help define the character but, at times, seem a bit contrived. Extraction e.is a comfortable, enjoyable read. I received an ARC and this is my honest appraisal of this novel.