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Karen Vail #5
No Way Out
When a potent firebomb destroys part of an art gallery in an exclusive London district, FBI profiler Karen Vail is dispatched to England to work with Scotland Yard on drafting a threat assessment to head off future attacks. But Vail soon discovers that at the heart of the bombing lies a four-hundred-forty-year-old manuscript that holds clues to England’s past―with dramatic political and social implications. The manuscript’s content is so explosive that a group of political radicals is bent on destroying it at all costs.Or is it the work of someone else? The trail leads Vail to a notorious fugitive who has escaped law enforcement for decades, and who appears to be planning a major attack on London and the United States. When Hector DeSantos, banished from the US Department of Defense and now a rogue covert operative, turns up in England and takes actions that threaten Vail’s life, she finds herself on the run from the British security service, Scotland Yard, and a group of internationally trained assassins―all determined to silence her . . . all tightening the net to ensure that she’s got no way out.With his trademark spirited dialogue, page-turning scenes, and well-drawn characters, national bestselling author Alan Jacobson (“My kind of writer,” says Michael Connelly) has once again crafted an intelligent, twisting thriller destined to be talked about long after the last page has been turned.
439 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2013
206 people are currently reading
1211 people want to read
About the author
Alan Jacobson
33 books331 followersALAN JACOBSON is the USA Today bestselling author of a dozen critically acclaimed, award-winning thrillers. His 20 years of research and training with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, DEA, US Marshals Service, ATF, Scotland Yard, SWAT, and the US military bring unparalleled realism to his stories and characters—prompting the San Francisco Chronicle to write that “Alan Jacobson researches his books like a good newspaper reporter and then pushes the envelope into reality more thoroughly than the typical crime novel could ever allow.”
Jacobson's series protagonist, FBI profiler Karen Vail, has resonated with both female and male readers and inspired Nelson DeMille, James Patterson, and Michael Connelly to call Vail one of the most compelling heroes in suspense fiction. Likewise, his OPSIG Team Black series has been lauded by real-life Navy SEALs.
Jacobson’s thrillers have been published internationally and several have been optioned by Hollywood.
Web: www.AlanJacobson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AlanJacobsonFans Instagram: alan.jacobson
Twitter: @JacobsonAlan
Jacobson's series protagonist, FBI profiler Karen Vail, has resonated with both female and male readers and inspired Nelson DeMille, James Patterson, and Michael Connelly to call Vail one of the most compelling heroes in suspense fiction. Likewise, his OPSIG Team Black series has been lauded by real-life Navy SEALs.
Jacobson’s thrillers have been published internationally and several have been optioned by Hollywood.
Web: www.AlanJacobson.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AlanJacobsonFans Instagram: alan.jacobson
Twitter: @JacobsonAlan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 18, 2014
A different kind of story line than the other Karen Vail books - more espionage and off continental USA.
Karen is first sent to Spain to talk at a behavioral conference, which she gets into a bit of trouble, then she is sent to London to help track down some terrorists who have plans of using ricine in London.
The book was a pretty good read, a bit cumbersome with the "tutorial" on the writings of Shakespeare and whether or not Shakespeare is a man or woman - interesting, but a big draggy.
Lots of wit and bantering, sarcasm, etc. - just the way I like it. I do recommend this book to those who like a bit of action and mayhem!
2 thumbs up and 4 solid stars.
Karen is first sent to Spain to talk at a behavioral conference, which she gets into a bit of trouble, then she is sent to London to help track down some terrorists who have plans of using ricine in London.
The book was a pretty good read, a bit cumbersome with the "tutorial" on the writings of Shakespeare and whether or not Shakespeare is a man or woman - interesting, but a big draggy.
Lots of wit and bantering, sarcasm, etc. - just the way I like it. I do recommend this book to those who like a bit of action and mayhem!
2 thumbs up and 4 solid stars.
July 23, 2014
Alan Jacobson’s newest installment in the popular Karen Vail series is a riveting jaunt across the pond.
FBI Profiler Karen Vail swears she’ll be on her best behavior when she’s plucked out of Spain—having partially taught a class on her craft—leaving behind a corpse and damage to a national treasure. Sent straight to London and assigned a threat assessment, Vail really does intend to tow the line this time, but anyone who knows of her, understands that coloring in the lines isn’t her strong suit.
In a posh shopping district, a well-placed bomb destroys part of an art gallery and the stakes are high. Was the bomber looking to destroy a one-of-a-kind manuscript that appears to be the work of the ‘real’ Shakespeare? What would the national consequences be if it were proven beyond a doubt that Shakespeare was not who we thought he was? What if he was a she?
Another bombing, an admission of guilt by a radical political group, and the appearance of Hector DeSantos—an old friend of Vail’s—who is leery, but begins to spoon-feed her details of a larger, sinister picture with global repercussions, lead everyone in different directions. But Vail is like a heat-seeking missile and she won’t stop until she solves this crime or dies. And in this case, death is a very real possibility.
The complexity of the plot mixed with the well-researched setting and Vail’s signature style, make for a fast-paced, thrilling read where Jacobson offers you the best ticket in town. “No Way Out” is explosive!
Reviewed by Shannon Raab for Suspense Magazine
FBI Profiler Karen Vail swears she’ll be on her best behavior when she’s plucked out of Spain—having partially taught a class on her craft—leaving behind a corpse and damage to a national treasure. Sent straight to London and assigned a threat assessment, Vail really does intend to tow the line this time, but anyone who knows of her, understands that coloring in the lines isn’t her strong suit.
In a posh shopping district, a well-placed bomb destroys part of an art gallery and the stakes are high. Was the bomber looking to destroy a one-of-a-kind manuscript that appears to be the work of the ‘real’ Shakespeare? What would the national consequences be if it were proven beyond a doubt that Shakespeare was not who we thought he was? What if he was a she?
Another bombing, an admission of guilt by a radical political group, and the appearance of Hector DeSantos—an old friend of Vail’s—who is leery, but begins to spoon-feed her details of a larger, sinister picture with global repercussions, lead everyone in different directions. But Vail is like a heat-seeking missile and she won’t stop until she solves this crime or dies. And in this case, death is a very real possibility.
The complexity of the plot mixed with the well-researched setting and Vail’s signature style, make for a fast-paced, thrilling read where Jacobson offers you the best ticket in town. “No Way Out” is explosive!
Reviewed by Shannon Raab for Suspense Magazine
January 24, 2014
In the fifth Karen Vail installment, the great FBI profiler gets to take a trip across the pond and enjoy some bangers and mash, visit Big Ben and help out some bobbies . . . no, actually, it’s much more cooler than that. Vail finds herself on orders to help out New Scotland Yard with a special kind of case that soon turns into something much more complex and terrifying, dragging her from the world of profiling and tracking to outright black ops. But if there’s anyone who can handle it, it’s the awesome Karen Vail.
No Way Out opens with Vail teaching a class at a conference in Madrid, Spain and soon finds herself in hot water and on the wrong side of the policía. Before things can get too heated, Vail gets dispatched to jolly old England for the first time in her life to help out New Scotland Yard with an explosion at a private collector’s gallery. But constables are not expecting much from a “profiler,” even when Vail starts doing her detective work and putting the pieces together.
At the heart of the explosion appears to be an attack against the supposed discovery of an original folio of one William Shakespeare, penned in his own hand. What’s more startling is its possible link to a theory that Shakespeare’s works were in fact originally written by a “dark-skinned” Italian Jewish woman, one Amelia Bassano Lanier. Since England is more synonymous with Shakespeare than the Beatles, it would come as a shocking, thermonuclear blow to the Brit population as a whole.
But as Vail continues to dig deeper, everything is not as it seems, and the case is far more complex and sinister and has ties deep within the British government. Plus one of the guys involved in solving everything turns out to be an old friend of Vail’s, Desantos, who’s working undercover and will stop at nothing to get to the bottom of these terrorist attacks. Because the guy behind it all is on the world’s most wanted list, Desantos has a score to settle, both on an international and a personal level.
No Way Out is the best Karen Vail novel yet, because Alan Jacobson has outdone himself with the research. As someone with a British parent and friends in Britain and having taken a number of vacations to London and the surrounding areas, I take a perverse joy in nitpicking and critiquing novels set in Britain that aren’t always accurate. No Way Out whisked me away to London and planted me firmly there with the culture, the language, the vocabulary . . . Jacobson did a fantastic job.
As for the detail with the British police service, MI5, British military, and even a US aircraft carrier, Jacobson has again done the work and immerses the reader seamlessly into this world. There are also a number of scenes involving the unusual British aircraft the Osprey, culminating in a final action scene that may be one of the best you will read.
What makes a Karen Vail novel so enjoyable is that Jacobson makes them as real as possible. The characters try hunches and ideas and risky plans, but unlike most thrillers, they don’t all work. There are failures and the characters have to go back to the drawing board and start again. It makes for more interesting and believable conflict in the story and keeps that reader reading.
No Way Out goes beyond being a great summer read, and may be one of if not the best thriller of 2013. Fans will love it, and brand new readers will also. Jacobson explains any necessary back-story, escorting the reader along on one wild ride that the reader wishes partly to never end, but at the same time want to find out how it all ends.
Originally written on July 24, 2013 ©Alex C. Telander.
For more reviews, check out the BookBanter site.
No Way Out opens with Vail teaching a class at a conference in Madrid, Spain and soon finds herself in hot water and on the wrong side of the policía. Before things can get too heated, Vail gets dispatched to jolly old England for the first time in her life to help out New Scotland Yard with an explosion at a private collector’s gallery. But constables are not expecting much from a “profiler,” even when Vail starts doing her detective work and putting the pieces together.
At the heart of the explosion appears to be an attack against the supposed discovery of an original folio of one William Shakespeare, penned in his own hand. What’s more startling is its possible link to a theory that Shakespeare’s works were in fact originally written by a “dark-skinned” Italian Jewish woman, one Amelia Bassano Lanier. Since England is more synonymous with Shakespeare than the Beatles, it would come as a shocking, thermonuclear blow to the Brit population as a whole.
But as Vail continues to dig deeper, everything is not as it seems, and the case is far more complex and sinister and has ties deep within the British government. Plus one of the guys involved in solving everything turns out to be an old friend of Vail’s, Desantos, who’s working undercover and will stop at nothing to get to the bottom of these terrorist attacks. Because the guy behind it all is on the world’s most wanted list, Desantos has a score to settle, both on an international and a personal level.
No Way Out is the best Karen Vail novel yet, because Alan Jacobson has outdone himself with the research. As someone with a British parent and friends in Britain and having taken a number of vacations to London and the surrounding areas, I take a perverse joy in nitpicking and critiquing novels set in Britain that aren’t always accurate. No Way Out whisked me away to London and planted me firmly there with the culture, the language, the vocabulary . . . Jacobson did a fantastic job.
As for the detail with the British police service, MI5, British military, and even a US aircraft carrier, Jacobson has again done the work and immerses the reader seamlessly into this world. There are also a number of scenes involving the unusual British aircraft the Osprey, culminating in a final action scene that may be one of the best you will read.
What makes a Karen Vail novel so enjoyable is that Jacobson makes them as real as possible. The characters try hunches and ideas and risky plans, but unlike most thrillers, they don’t all work. There are failures and the characters have to go back to the drawing board and start again. It makes for more interesting and believable conflict in the story and keeps that reader reading.
No Way Out goes beyond being a great summer read, and may be one of if not the best thriller of 2013. Fans will love it, and brand new readers will also. Jacobson explains any necessary back-story, escorting the reader along on one wild ride that the reader wishes partly to never end, but at the same time want to find out how it all ends.
Originally written on July 24, 2013 ©Alex C. Telander.
For more reviews, check out the BookBanter site.
February 22, 2017
This was the first Alan Jacobson novel I've read... I jumped in with his 5th Karen Vail tale ....
This FBI profiler is not only extremely confident & competent , but also sarcastic and witty. She is the female counterpart of Nelson Demillie's "John Corey" character ... who I never grow tired of.
Karen is dispatched to England perform a threat accessment involving a recent bombing. Consideration of motive turns out to be the destruction of 440 year old "hand-written" manuscript of Shakespeare. A detour occurs in the tale to present a very credible theory that "Shakespeare" actually wasn't educated or "wordy" enough to create these writings .... but they possibly represent the work of Amelia Bassano .... A Black female with a Jewish heritage.
Along are twisting journey to discover the truth .... she teams up with a Black Ops agent from her past .... eventually tension builds as they try to avoid capture by many factions: Scotland Yard , British security forces, and international terrorist assassins ....
A suspenseful yard worth waiting for the unravelling of motives.
September 17, 2013
Great. Now I have yet another author's back catalog to start reading! Alan Jacobson has offered his reader's a thrill a minute journey to London and beyond. His heroine, FBI Profiler Karen Vail, is a wonderfully multi dimensional character. I do not think I suffered from not reading other books about Karen. The pacing was fast, the action non-stop, the suspense well plotted and the settings beautifully drawn. The ease of immersion was fantastic, I didn't want to put it down and stayed up way too late reading because I had to know!
That's the mark of a talented author. Well done.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
That's the mark of a talented author. Well done.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2023
In this #5 Karen Vail tale, she was in Paris teaching a seminar, when things occurred, that contributed to her being sent immediately to London, as a profiler to help in a bombing that happened at an art gallery. Little does she know, she is being evaluated to become a member of the OPSEG, a special black Ops program. She is given limited information, other than she needed to be on her "best behavior" and work nicely with the local authorities. To her surprise, she finds out that London police don't carry guns to deal with crime on the streets. She is working with Reid and Cartier who are the British liaisons, under Buck who is the British Head of the counterpart to US Homeland Security. Hector Santos shows up undercover with an alternative plan involving the capture of a person who is the major arms and bioweapons supplier for terrorists. Because Karen has a different way of viewing patterns, she sees major deceptions in the story presented about the museum bombing, which was claimed as a way to "destroy" a document handwritten by Shakespeare. Because she was left out of the loop of the need to know, she inadvertently causes problems and mistakes along the way to capture the real villain, which resulted in numerous deaths in their path to solve the real crime--find the ricin and the villain who planned to kill a large percentage of people with it. They do find all the ricin and get it contained properly but the villain escaped again now his face is known so eventually he will be caught.
February 9, 2023
No Way Out (Karen Vail, #5)
by Alan Jacobson (Goodreads Author)
It took about 6 or 7 lines of the author to stumble: he used 'feisty' to describe a full-bodied 5-foot-seven woman. Feisty: small and energetic. A word largely destroyed by journalists and other ignorant writers. But in my view a sadness. Such a specific word laid low.
That aside, the writing is plodding. No sparkle, no flow. Fine imagination, good characters, interesting bits and pieces scattered about. But poor dialogue with terrible banter.
My copy is a 2013 Kickstarter edition. That means I contributed to the production of the book. Back then I was interested in how certain things worked out for Karen Vail. I jumped the gun somewhat, supporting the Kickstarter effort before finishing my Vail books. Once I did, I was left disinterested in knowing more about Karen. I have been avoiding the book for 9 years, shuffling it about on my to-be-read shelves. Now I have faced the thing and it is behind me.
Whew!
by Alan Jacobson (Goodreads Author)
It took about 6 or 7 lines of the author to stumble: he used 'feisty' to describe a full-bodied 5-foot-seven woman. Feisty: small and energetic. A word largely destroyed by journalists and other ignorant writers. But in my view a sadness. Such a specific word laid low.
That aside, the writing is plodding. No sparkle, no flow. Fine imagination, good characters, interesting bits and pieces scattered about. But poor dialogue with terrible banter.
My copy is a 2013 Kickstarter edition. That means I contributed to the production of the book. Back then I was interested in how certain things worked out for Karen Vail. I jumped the gun somewhat, supporting the Kickstarter effort before finishing my Vail books. Once I did, I was left disinterested in knowing more about Karen. I have been avoiding the book for 9 years, shuffling it about on my to-be-read shelves. Now I have faced the thing and it is behind me.
Whew!
March 23, 2021
Good book. Karen Vail has her 1st experience in the life of Hector DeSantos, on the job.
The Director General should really listen to Hector since all his predictions about Karen came true; she was too good at her job as a profiler to brush her off when she doesn't go the way he expected her to go, especially when it came to serial killers. The Director General is way over his head when he thought he could control Karen Vail. BIG MISTAKE!!!
The Director General should really listen to Hector since all his predictions about Karen came true; she was too good at her job as a profiler to brush her off when she doesn't go the way he expected her to go, especially when it came to serial killers. The Director General is way over his head when he thought he could control Karen Vail. BIG MISTAKE!!!
November 11, 2023
Too much details (Shakespeare explanation for an example). A lot of details about “LOW FUEL” (I’m a pilot and it seems that since they have found out about their low fuel situation, they have almost crossed the Atlantic).
Too much talking and they never stop about any subject (they are digging our brain out… if you know what I mean).
A big disappointment after other book that I have read in this serious.
Too much talking and they never stop about any subject (they are digging our brain out… if you know what I mean).
A big disappointment after other book that I have read in this serious.
July 15, 2017
Karen Vail from the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit is on loan to New Scotland Yard in London to profile and help catch a terrorist. What starts out as an investigation into the bombing of an art gallery with a valuable Shakespeare original turns out to be a much bigger conspiracy.
Bombs, chemical weapons and international terrorists make this a fast moving thriller.
Bombs, chemical weapons and international terrorists make this a fast moving thriller.
May 22, 2025
I'm a cop. No matter what country I'm in, I live to catch the bad guys.
Amazing! That’s my first reaction to No Way Out. The storyline is so intricately woven, with each character and subplot perfectly interconnected — it’s nothing short of brilliant. This was my first read by Alan Jacobson, and I’m absolutely in awe of his work. The depth of research and how he presents covert operations — involving the CIA, FBI, terrorism, and international threats — is exceptional. Not every writer nails the intensity and realism of such themes, but Alan did, and he did it remarkably well. Every page was a gripping ride!
What makes it even more fascinating is the unexpected angle — a theory tying Shakespeare’s legendary works to Amelia Bassano Lanier, a dark-skinned Italian Jewish woman. That twist is wild, bold, and truly jaw-dropping — especially for a nation that reveres Shakespeare!
The pacing is spot-on, and the emotional weight behind every character is felt deeply. Karen Vail and Hector DeSantos — their partnership, trust, and unwavering focus — reflect a kind of camaraderie that's rare. DeSantos, with his personal vendetta, adds even more fire to the mission. It’s not just about action; it’s about people who put everything on the line for the safety of others.
Alan’s attention to detail makes you feel like you're walking through the streets of the UK — I could visualize every scene vividly. And the truth this story reveals: those working in covert operations sacrifice more than we realize — even their lives — and they do it willingly, for their mission.
And while we all crave happy endings, sometimes, all we can do is give our best and let life take its course. This book leaves you with that very feeling — of purpose, of realism, and of deep admiration for those who serve behind the scenes.
Amazing! That’s my first reaction to No Way Out. The storyline is so intricately woven, with each character and subplot perfectly interconnected — it’s nothing short of brilliant. This was my first read by Alan Jacobson, and I’m absolutely in awe of his work. The depth of research and how he presents covert operations — involving the CIA, FBI, terrorism, and international threats — is exceptional. Not every writer nails the intensity and realism of such themes, but Alan did, and he did it remarkably well. Every page was a gripping ride!
What makes it even more fascinating is the unexpected angle — a theory tying Shakespeare’s legendary works to Amelia Bassano Lanier, a dark-skinned Italian Jewish woman. That twist is wild, bold, and truly jaw-dropping — especially for a nation that reveres Shakespeare!
The pacing is spot-on, and the emotional weight behind every character is felt deeply. Karen Vail and Hector DeSantos — their partnership, trust, and unwavering focus — reflect a kind of camaraderie that's rare. DeSantos, with his personal vendetta, adds even more fire to the mission. It’s not just about action; it’s about people who put everything on the line for the safety of others.
Alan’s attention to detail makes you feel like you're walking through the streets of the UK — I could visualize every scene vividly. And the truth this story reveals: those working in covert operations sacrifice more than we realize — even their lives — and they do it willingly, for their mission.
And while we all crave happy endings, sometimes, all we can do is give our best and let life take its course. This book leaves you with that very feeling — of purpose, of realism, and of deep admiration for those who serve behind the scenes.
July 18, 2018
Different from the rest of the series
Good story. Started slow, gained momentum and went screaming through to the end at Mach 5. Not your typical ‘detective story’, more ‘international espionage’. Fun read.
Good story. Started slow, gained momentum and went screaming through to the end at Mach 5. Not your typical ‘detective story’, more ‘international espionage’. Fun read.
February 28, 2019
Different
I believe this book does not add up to the previous series. However I did like the Black Ops and I like having Hector back in the storyline. Also like the addition of Hot Rod and Uzi.
I believe this book does not add up to the previous series. However I did like the Black Ops and I like having Hector back in the storyline. Also like the addition of Hot Rod and Uzi.
November 3, 2023
Great book
Amazing story for Agent Vail. I love this character. If you haven't read any of this series start on the 1st one. Strong character that leads you on exciting police detective adventures. You can feel the emotions!!
Amazing story for Agent Vail. I love this character. If you haven't read any of this series start on the 1st one. Strong character that leads you on exciting police detective adventures. You can feel the emotions!!
January 26, 2025
Very good book, possibly a little too long though. I always enjoy this author's books and this series, but at times it almost seemed to have too many twists and turns. All in all though it was a good read.
January 7, 2019
Meh! Too many alias', too many characters, too many life and death “situations”. I’m just glad it’s done.
June 30, 2019
I'd read this before but forgot. Not surprising, the series doesn't improve. Pity
February 4, 2020
Well, a different Karen Vail but familiar characters and lots of twists and turns. Of course I stayed up until 3:18 AM to finish it I liked it so much...
May 13, 2021
Quickly becoming one of my favorite characters, Karen Vail ROCKS! Full of suspense and action this book is terrific! Now, on to the next in the series!
August 13, 2021
Very good book….very long !!
October 3, 2022
Each book in this series gets better and better
October 13, 2022
Lots of characters to keep up with, but I really liked the book. Lots of action and twists/turns.
September 12, 2013
No Way Out
By Alan Jacobson
Reviewed by Russell Ilg
No Way Out is the latest and greatest installment of the FBI Profiler Karen Vail series. In this best novel of the year contender, Karen is taken out of her comfort zone and sent to England to help Scotland Yard with a threat assessment. On the surface, it looks to be a quick in-and-out job. But this simple case takes on a life of its own that soon becomes a much more complex, challenging, and dangerous matter that puts her in a tough position: there appears to be No Way Out for her—and, quite literally, getting home may never happen. There is nothing you can do to get ready for what lurks around the corners in this thriller. It’s fresh and original, and even makes you think—about our history, about personal and governmental security, even about enhanced interrogation.
All of Alan Jacobson’s novels are two-read books for me, and No Way Out was no exception. It starts off with a bang and the pacing is exceptional. The twists and turns occur so rapidly, and frequently, that I found myself reading faster and faster because I had to know what was going to happen next. As with Jacobson’s other novels, I galloped along with its breakneck pace, and after reaching the end, I took a day to absorb it all. I then started reading it again, from page one, to find all the small things that I missed the first time. I find it a great way to enjoy Jacobson’s books.
As with all the Karen Vail novels, this is by far one of the best reads of the year and stands head and shoulders above the crowded field of new releases this fall. No Way Out will have you reading way longer than you had planned, well into the night. One of the reasons is Karen Vail. Not only do we respect her as a gifted profiler, but she feels “real” to the reader. She’s not perfect as an individual or as a law enforcement officer, but she possesses a dogged tenacity that compels her to get to the heart of what’s going on. It’s this quality that makes her so good at what she does as she forges her way forward, looking for a way to get to the bottom of the hardest cases that come her way.
And just what is going on in No Way Out? Jacobson covers so much ground that it’d be impossible to recap the story, certainly without giving away key plot elements, because everything in this book builds on itself. Simply stated, it starts off with the find of a rare manuscript—one over 400 years old—that has significance to world history. More than that I won’t say. But before you know it, there’s a full-blown catastrophe afoot, and Karen Vail, and her covert operative friend, Hector DeSantos, have to sort it out. Will they? And will they do it in time? Equally important, who can be trusted?
Alan Jacobson is one of the very rare authors that writes what I have started to refer to as “fact fiction,” where the novel is based on real places, capturing the way the local people really live and act, which makes the setting come alive. There is only one way Jacobson can do this and that is by spending a huge amount of time in the area to learn all he can about the place and its local culture, with the help and support of the police and other major agencies. You know that the areas where his novels take you are all real because he has been there and walked the streets and talked with people in each location. The result is that you learn how things really happen, whether it be a prison in the US or some country in Europe. There are very few authors who take the time, expense and effort to do this, and it adds levels of depth to the characters, setting, and dialogue that can’t otherwise exist. That’s one thing that makes No Way Out, set in England and featuring the clash of British and American cultures, a standout thriller.
No Way Out is a must read for all thriller fans, by far one of the most exciting novels of the fall and the perfect book to take on vacation. You will not read a better book this year.
By Alan Jacobson
Reviewed by Russell Ilg
No Way Out is the latest and greatest installment of the FBI Profiler Karen Vail series. In this best novel of the year contender, Karen is taken out of her comfort zone and sent to England to help Scotland Yard with a threat assessment. On the surface, it looks to be a quick in-and-out job. But this simple case takes on a life of its own that soon becomes a much more complex, challenging, and dangerous matter that puts her in a tough position: there appears to be No Way Out for her—and, quite literally, getting home may never happen. There is nothing you can do to get ready for what lurks around the corners in this thriller. It’s fresh and original, and even makes you think—about our history, about personal and governmental security, even about enhanced interrogation.
All of Alan Jacobson’s novels are two-read books for me, and No Way Out was no exception. It starts off with a bang and the pacing is exceptional. The twists and turns occur so rapidly, and frequently, that I found myself reading faster and faster because I had to know what was going to happen next. As with Jacobson’s other novels, I galloped along with its breakneck pace, and after reaching the end, I took a day to absorb it all. I then started reading it again, from page one, to find all the small things that I missed the first time. I find it a great way to enjoy Jacobson’s books.
As with all the Karen Vail novels, this is by far one of the best reads of the year and stands head and shoulders above the crowded field of new releases this fall. No Way Out will have you reading way longer than you had planned, well into the night. One of the reasons is Karen Vail. Not only do we respect her as a gifted profiler, but she feels “real” to the reader. She’s not perfect as an individual or as a law enforcement officer, but she possesses a dogged tenacity that compels her to get to the heart of what’s going on. It’s this quality that makes her so good at what she does as she forges her way forward, looking for a way to get to the bottom of the hardest cases that come her way.
And just what is going on in No Way Out? Jacobson covers so much ground that it’d be impossible to recap the story, certainly without giving away key plot elements, because everything in this book builds on itself. Simply stated, it starts off with the find of a rare manuscript—one over 400 years old—that has significance to world history. More than that I won’t say. But before you know it, there’s a full-blown catastrophe afoot, and Karen Vail, and her covert operative friend, Hector DeSantos, have to sort it out. Will they? And will they do it in time? Equally important, who can be trusted?
Alan Jacobson is one of the very rare authors that writes what I have started to refer to as “fact fiction,” where the novel is based on real places, capturing the way the local people really live and act, which makes the setting come alive. There is only one way Jacobson can do this and that is by spending a huge amount of time in the area to learn all he can about the place and its local culture, with the help and support of the police and other major agencies. You know that the areas where his novels take you are all real because he has been there and walked the streets and talked with people in each location. The result is that you learn how things really happen, whether it be a prison in the US or some country in Europe. There are very few authors who take the time, expense and effort to do this, and it adds levels of depth to the characters, setting, and dialogue that can’t otherwise exist. That’s one thing that makes No Way Out, set in England and featuring the clash of British and American cultures, a standout thriller.
No Way Out is a must read for all thriller fans, by far one of the most exciting novels of the fall and the perfect book to take on vacation. You will not read a better book this year.
October 19, 2014
Alan Jacobson's "No Way Out" is an incredible wild ride of suspense, intrigue, and mystery that at times can knock you off your chair. FBI BAU's Karen Vail is sent to London for her expertise to profile a bomber. It seems a bomb has destroyed a book store which had recently discovered a rare Shakespeare manuscript. Vail is pared with New Scotland Yard's Clive Reid to assist her around London. Before long, Vail teams up with CIA Black Ops Specialist Hector DeSantos on a completely different adventure/ mission. Yes Karen Vail and Hector DeSantos are all over London creating their own form of havoc for the unknowing Brits. Yes, Scotland Yard, and MI5 knew they'd be in for a tough time keeping Vail under their control. They however did not know to the degree of difficulty this would entail. The story line is packed, and packed again with action. It's sometimes hard to catch your breath trying to hold onto the twists and turns Vail and DeSantos are thrown into. This was Karen Vail book # 5, and I thought head and shoulders better than any previous. Hector DeSantos is a fabulous character to keep up with. DeSantos reminded me time and again as an American type James Bond. Especially when SSA Aaron "Uzi" Uziel bailed DeSantos out with gadgetry. The characters in "No Way Out" are just wonderful to root for as good guys, or even bad guys. Fantastic dialog is created here with the Brits and Americans both speaking "English". I really enjoyed this book immensely. The story line and the characters kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. It was difficult to put down at times. Just unable to put down needing to know what was happening next. 5 stars out of 5 for the best Karen Vail book yet. But I thought Hector DeSantos really steals this one away. Author Alan Jacobson writes some terrific thrillers. Check out his Karen Vail series. I've already started another Alan Jacobson book. I'd highly recommend any mystery/ thriller buff do as well.
May 1, 2016
It took me a while to get into this book as it's not a typical Karen Vail serial killer thriller. Two themes run through the book which I usually am not interested in reading; first a conspiracy theory and secondly terrorists. Karen is sent off to England for consultation but quickly finds herself being told of a stolen manuscript and the reason? one of the many who really wrote the Shakespeare plays conspiracy theories. This part bored me to tears but Karen's sarcastic personality and annoyance with British parlance kept me going. The plot quickly turns to terrorists, arms dealers, Arab terrorist cells and black ops with Karen in the middle of it all. I'm not into terrorist plots or political thrillers so was slow to warm up to the book. But have to admit that once the chase starts I got caught up in the action. Hector DeSantos, a black ops agent returns from a previous book and the relationship between he and Vail is dynamic and full of witty repartee. The book's an adrenaline rush with Vail and the black ops team either chasing or being chased non-stop with practically no moments to come up for air. I prefer serial killer thrillers so this is not my favourite book in the series, but it did hold my attention after the slow start. Jacobson is a good storyteller and I look forward to the next book, just hoping Karen gets back to profiling a killer.
October 20, 2013
No Way Out – A Karen Vail Novel = EXCELLENT
Mystery/suspense author, Alan Jacobson, transports us into the shadowy international world of terrorism, thanks to some very strong characters – led by FBI Profiler Karen Vail. Mr. Jacobson weaves an intense story of shocking revelations and the never-ending moral dilemma of whether the ends justify the means. England and Spain are rich environments in this fast-paced tale with Karen Vail often challenged with whom to trust vs. following her gut instincts. Add to this some veteran characters (ex., Hector DeSantos; Aaron “Uzi” Uziel) and we begin to see the importance of trust, quick thinking and the ultimate in teamwork. Many times I was placed directly in the action, leaving me breathless and wanting to resolve some tough questions along the way. In my opinion, No Way Out is an excellent book, full of high-energy action, well-placed humor and an admirable red-headed heroine (and heroes) for our times! Believe me, we WANT someone like Karen Vail and her associates – on our side.
Mystery/suspense author, Alan Jacobson, transports us into the shadowy international world of terrorism, thanks to some very strong characters – led by FBI Profiler Karen Vail. Mr. Jacobson weaves an intense story of shocking revelations and the never-ending moral dilemma of whether the ends justify the means. England and Spain are rich environments in this fast-paced tale with Karen Vail often challenged with whom to trust vs. following her gut instincts. Add to this some veteran characters (ex., Hector DeSantos; Aaron “Uzi” Uziel) and we begin to see the importance of trust, quick thinking and the ultimate in teamwork. Many times I was placed directly in the action, leaving me breathless and wanting to resolve some tough questions along the way. In my opinion, No Way Out is an excellent book, full of high-energy action, well-placed humor and an admirable red-headed heroine (and heroes) for our times! Believe me, we WANT someone like Karen Vail and her associates – on our side.
September 15, 2013
Very good action thriller with all the normal fight scenes, car chases and James Bond type action. Good story line of CIA/FBI/MI5 operatives saving Britain from a terrorist attack. The main character Karen Vail I believe has been overworked as to me she was very unlikeable, gobby, know it all, with ego to match. She could have been toned down a little to make her acceptance with her peers more believable. Written for an American audience the author added various references to the differences between English and American English, one or two of these changes in language use is fine and makes the point, overuse makes them irritating, as does calling police cars "cruisers" .
The story was told at a fast pace with action in every chapter. This is the kind of story ideal for making into a movie, however I not sure Karen Vail would have the same appeal as James Bond. Although I have some misgivings the book is very enjoyable and therefore meets my criteria for recommendation.
The story was told at a fast pace with action in every chapter. This is the kind of story ideal for making into a movie, however I not sure Karen Vail would have the same appeal as James Bond. Although I have some misgivings the book is very enjoyable and therefore meets my criteria for recommendation.
October 16, 2013
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Alan Jacobson's work. I am always anxiously awaiting any new release and let me tell you, his newest novel, "No Way Out" does not disappoint! This book hooked me from opening sequence and on the edge of my seat during the ending! The best thing, is that we readers are once again treated to our favorite FBI profiler, Karen Vail. She is smart, funny and takes crap off of no one. Alan Jacobson manages to throw you right into the action as well as making you become invested in his characters.
If you are looking for a great action-packed novel, check out this one! Alan researches his facts, so you know that everything that is going on his story is accurate. The places he takes us are so detailed that you feel like you are right there with Karen Vail, kicking butts and taking names! Thank you Alan Jacobson for another fantastic thrill ride!!!
T. Landreth
If you are looking for a great action-packed novel, check out this one! Alan researches his facts, so you know that everything that is going on his story is accurate. The places he takes us are so detailed that you feel like you are right there with Karen Vail, kicking butts and taking names! Thank you Alan Jacobson for another fantastic thrill ride!!!
T. Landreth
October 29, 2013
I know giving my favorite author’s new book 5 stars sounds predictable. Every Jacobson book to date has deserved that from me, thus the favorite author title.
In this Karen Vail thriller Vail starts out as an unwitting part of a cover for a homeland terrorism operation in England. When efforts to guide her away from the actual US assisted black op become transparent to the FBI profiler she becomes part of the mission. No Way Out is an action thriller where Vail finds herself walking the line between her own morality, FBI oath and the “greater good.” Vail and CIA agent, Hector DeSantos, are wanted by both sides of the law while years of a black ops investigation and millions of lives are at stake.
Alan Jacobson’s books keep getting better and more intense; Good Reads will have to add a sixth star or I’ll just have to delete a star for EVERYONE else.
In this Karen Vail thriller Vail starts out as an unwitting part of a cover for a homeland terrorism operation in England. When efforts to guide her away from the actual US assisted black op become transparent to the FBI profiler she becomes part of the mission. No Way Out is an action thriller where Vail finds herself walking the line between her own morality, FBI oath and the “greater good.” Vail and CIA agent, Hector DeSantos, are wanted by both sides of the law while years of a black ops investigation and millions of lives are at stake.
Alan Jacobson’s books keep getting better and more intense; Good Reads will have to add a sixth star or I’ll just have to delete a star for EVERYONE else.
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