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Shadows #1

Leaving Shadows

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The Head of British Intelligence is kidnapped. A ransom demanded. A private security company is tasked with his recovery. But nothing is as it seems... Opposing forces clash with deadly consequences as they race to control the most devastating weapon of mass destruction devised by Man! Deceit and betrayal against a backdrop of real events in a new nail-biting suspense thriller by Eric J. Gates.

492 pages, Paperback

Published June 22, 2013

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48 people want to read

About the author

Eric J. Gates

28 books153 followers
Award-winning author Eric J. Gates has had a curious life filled with the stuff of thriller novels. Writing Operating Systems for Supercomputers, cracking cryptographic codes under extreme pressure using only paper and pen and teaching cyberwarfare to spies are just a few of the moments he’s willing to recall. He is an ex-International Consultant who has travelled extensively worldwide, speaks several languages, and has had articles and papers published in six different countries, as well as radio and TV spots. His specialty, Information Technology Security, has brought him into contact with the Military and Intelligence communities on numerous occasions. He is also an expert martial artist, holding 14 black belt degrees in distinct disciplines. He has taught his skills to Police and Military personnel, as well as to the public.
He now writes thriller novels, drawing on his experiences with the confidential and secret worlds that surround us.

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5 stars
27 (56%)
4 stars
13 (27%)
3 stars
3 (6%)
2 stars
3 (6%)
1 star
2 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for J.A. Schneider.
Author 17 books572 followers
May 19, 2021
What’s most striking about this conspiracy thriller is that the author, Eric Gates, has lived the life. He has taught cyberwarfare, cracked codes and intelligence secrets for the Military, specializes in international IT Security, travelled the world (speaking several languages), and taught Intelligence to Police and Military personnel. With a background like that, you’ll be less likely to view his descriptions of the spy world as fictitious.

And what a story this is! Leaving Shadows, the first in the author’s The Shadows Series, describes the pique of a British Secret Service chief when he is snubbed. He knows too much technology, forgets loyalty to the Crown, and joins forces with a former rival for money and revenge. But does he succeed? This thriller is fascinating with a fast pace, surprise twists, and great characters who combine spy skills, intelligence, and humor in surprising places which make the story seem real. It is a well written, wonderfully riveting read, and I loved it. Five stars!
Profile Image for Linda Watkins.
Author 18 books369 followers
January 17, 2022
Leaving Shadows (The Shadows Series, Book 1) by author, Eric J. Gates, is a well-written, beautifully-crafted, thriller that this reader had an extremely hard time putting down. The novel begins with an abduction. Bernard Trubshaw (also known as “C”), head of the British Secret Intelligence Service, is on his way to work when he is incapacitated with a neurotoxin, hidden in a sealed casket, and whisked away by persons’ unknown. Learning of the kidnapping, the Deputy Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service, Rhys Edwards, and SIS man, Gary Deacon, journey to a quaint Victorian shopping mall and the offices of Charlie Alsop Consulting Services, a group of experts who specialize in finding kidnap victims and returning them discretely, safe and sound, along with any ransom that has been paid. Thus, the games begin as the team from CACS, with Deacon in tow as liaison to British Intelligence, pursue the kidnappers to bring Trubshaw home.

In Leaving Shadows, Author Gates has constructed a tautly woven, fast-paced thriller which keeps the reader guessing right up to its satisfying ending. Twists and turns abound as the CACS team hunts down its quarry. But things are not always as they seem. Is Trubshaw truly a victim or does he have an agenda of his own? Toss into the mix a couple of Spanish intelligence agents and an ex-KGB man and the chase becomes even more deadly. In addition, Author Gates describes technology, which lies at the center of this novel, that is frightening and could be catastrophic if placed into the wrong hands.

Leaving Shadows is an excellent thriller and a real page-turner. As noted in the title, it’s the first book in a series so hang on to your hats for there is more excitement to come. Highly recommended for fans of techno-thrillers, spy thrillers, and anyone who just simply enjoys a good yarn.
Profile Image for Steve Smy.
Author 16 books48 followers
August 3, 2013
Leaving Shadows by Eric J. Gates Leaving Shadows by Eric J. Gates

I received a copy of the ebook version of this novel from the author for review purposes. This has not influenced my opinions in any way whatsoever!

Well! I can only assume that I've become a thriller junkie! Leaving Shadows by Eric j Gates had me hooked very quickly! I did have to do battle with the differences between this and Chris Allen's works. I wobbled a little at the beginning, possibly because of battling comparisons, as no single individual stood out as a primary character. Still, the pace was excellent, drawing you along until you were well into the novel. It soon became obvious that you're not meant to identify with just one or two characters, but with the teams, rather. I have no problem with that. If the teams had been larger, it would have needed dominant members, but with so few, it works very well.

There are some typos and minor problems with the text (such as the wrong words used but correctly spelt), but less than in most books. There is also a scene that I have a problem with, in which the author features. If it had been left as a "Hitchcockian" appearance, then it would have been fine, but becoming embroiled in the action is a step too far, I'm afraid.

The story centres around the kidnapping of the head of the British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS, aka MI6) and the efforts of a private organisation to find and retrieve him - and the huge ransom demanded for his return. There are several twists and turns in the plot. The switching between different groups and scenes is smoothly handled, without harming the pace of the story. Locations are convincing and even educational, in places. The descriptive passages are excellently handled, being sufficient for some things while leaving the reader scope to use their imagination on the characters. As always, I won't go into the detail of the story, as I have no desire to inadvertently include spoilers. I have to say that I figured out what was going on long before the 'reveals', but I have a reputation for solving mysteries very quickly (to the great annoyance of my family members - I have to keep my conclusions to myself now), so it would be unfair to state that the solutions are obvious.

This thriller approaches its subject from a totally different angle to those of the aforementioned Chris Allen's. There's action, but it's 'activity' rather than moments of explosive violence. The technical aspects come more to the fore, because that reflects the author's real-life history, just as Chris Allen's books reflect his history. This isn't a criticism. Far from it! If all thrillers followed the same, or a similar, formula, then there'd be little point reading more than one or two authors! This novel works, and works very well indeed. I'd be interested in reading more, to see if the quality is maintained.

Overall? I'm more than happy to recommend Leaving Shadows to all lovers of the thriller genre!
Profile Image for Rabid Readers Reviews.
546 reviews25 followers
July 28, 2013
I am a huge fan of Ian Fleming and the 007 films. Gates gives the classic thriller a thoroughly modern upgrade. “Leaving Shadows” is a unique tale that takes the reader on an adventurous ride. At the end of the novel there is a document that forms a pact between Eric J Gates and the reader listing what Gates will present the reader. The boiled down version is that he promises that his work will be unique and entertaining and Gates carries through on the promise in spades.

“Leaving Shadows” contains a large cast of characters. At the start of the novel keeping up was a bit of a challenge. Gates drew the character of Bernard Trubshaw, also known as C, well. We watch as him as he dances through his morning routine waiting to be escorted by SAS to his office. Bernard is very scheduled, very distant from his wife and someone who works well under pressure. Everyone else was somewhat generic and more defined by his or her place in the story. Jenkinson and Sena are overriding forces in the story and ease the reader through. Many others have the feel of a white hat and black hat character and act their role in a credit to the story but not in a sense of enhancement.

“Leaving Shadows” is a very plot-driven tale. The twists and turns that Gates takes serves to keep the action moving and the reader’s mouth hanging open. “If she liked the book so much why did she give it 4 stars” you might ask. I gave it 4 stars because while I liked the novel and thought it was really unique, it was not a full package novel for me. While I loved the beginning and ending I felt the middle of the novel was somewhat disconnected at points. The mastery Gates exhibits is that with the ever-moving action, those moments were brief.

“Leaving Shadows” is one of the better thrillers I’ve read this year.
Profile Image for Owen Jones.
Author 317 books67 followers
November 17, 2014
Leaving Shadows
By Eric J. Gates
Review by Owen Jones
*****

In my opinion, Leaving Shadows, has the best storyline of the three of his books that I have read so far and that is saying something, as all of his readers will know, because Gates writes superb thrillers.

This one involves the British Secret Services and quite a few ex-special forces operatives, both of which hail from several countries. The story unfolds in several countries too, including Gates' beloved southeastern Spain.

The plot in Leaving Shadows twists and turns, catching the reader unawares, just when he thinks he knows what is going on, but always remains believable.

In fact, Gates makes the central theme of the story so plausible, that I am still not sure whether it is something that he latched onto in a previous profession. It would not surprise me to hear that one of the American secret services had spirited him away one day.

It's one to look out for, and remember that you read it here first.

Look out for the Hitchcockesque appearance of the author displaying his skills at the martial arts as well.

I only had two gripes about Leaving Shadows, one minor and one major.

The minor one first: I am not fond of car chases. I know that this is not a fair criticism, because there are many people that love them, however, I happen to think that the car chase spoiled 'Bullitt".

The major one, Mr. Gates, as a Welshman, I can assure you that Welsh is not Gaelic! Gaelic is Celtic/Gaelic, Welsh is Celtic/Brittonic.

Despite these last two points, I have given it five stars because I can assure you that you that you will still love this book.
Profile Image for Sheri.
2,114 reviews
March 29, 2015
Leaving Shadows by Eric J. Gates

The Head of British Intelligence is kidnapped and a private security company has taken on this case. Spanning different countries, spies, special forces-operatives, lies deceit and betrayal are obstacles in getting this job done.

Not to mention the race for time to gain control of a weapon of mass destruction. (This just) adds more nail biting tension in a well written suspense filled thriller. The plot is intense, the story line is so believable, makes me wonder what goes on in this world that we don't know about.

Leaving Shadows is intense, gripping, compelling and thought provoking. I don't do spoilers so I won't say much more. But those who love a great thriller, with a plot so believable that is feels like(a) non-fiction read will enjoy this thrilling story.
Profile Image for Fiona Quinn.
Author 80 books512 followers
January 8, 2016
I can't recall ever breaking out in a sweat while reading a book before, but this one certainly got my adrenaline pumping. I was right there with the operatives trying to unwind this mystery and figure out just what was going on. The author used a (I'm hoping) fictional weapon of mass destruction, which was very creative and terrifying. Cheering the good guys on is a favorite past time of mine - but in this case? It took me a while to figure out who wore the white hat and who wore the black and to be honest, I wasn't really sure until I read the last page. I devoured this book in one sitting. If you're a fan of thrillers and action, this is the book for you. Very smart, and I like that.
Profile Image for Tony McManus.
Author 16 books14 followers
March 31, 2021
If you enjoy conspiracy thrillers, you’ll love this one.
It has just about everything. Excellent plot with many twists, well drawn and interesting characters, and a story that’s intriguing and exciting. It’ pace is fast and it grabs the reader from the first page and doesn’t let go.
Having read several of Mr. Gates’ books I’m impressed by his style. Apart from anything else, his ability to fashion a unique and unusual tale wins my admiration. I look forward to reading more, starting with, Chasing Shadows.
A well written novel. A riveting read. Strongly recommended.
173 reviews
October 31, 2019
A kidnapping gone awry...or is it?

Mr. Gates has gotten to me again. He has loaded a kick butt story about the kidnapping of a senior intelligence agency head and combined it with a double cross of international proportions. I love the way Mr. Gates writes and his character development. The characters combine intelligence, strength, humor and capable spy skills to bring the entire story to life.

This is a definite read for those who love conspiracy theories.
Profile Image for John Dolan.
Author 18 books259 followers
July 26, 2013
Eric J Gates' thrillers always deliver the goods and his latest offering, 'Leaving Shadows', is no exception. It's a great beach read. The action is non-stop and there are a few twists and turns along the way to keep you on your toes. Grab a copy!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
419 reviews2 followers
May 28, 2019
Very Enjoyable! An intriguing tale as a kidnapping retrieval company tries to recover the head of the British SIS. Great characters & action and some mind blowing twists. I definitely want to read more about these characters.
Profile Image for Kay.
58 reviews
April 9, 2020
IT KEEPS YOUR ATTENTION!

Well done! I had trouble putting it down! By the way, The CULL series is my favorite but I like this book, too.
Profile Image for S.R. Mallery.
Author 22 books340 followers
August 28, 2023
***** A cinematic and technologically savvy spy novel!

This well-written book opens with a unique and intense kidnapping, where you are literally waiting minute by minute to find out if there will be an explosion or assassination. You also wonder why someone who was sitting on the back of a motorcycle at a stop light, leans over to spread some sort of sticky substance on the back door handle of a silver Jaguar sedan, when no one was sitting in the back of the car. Talk about getting hooked ASAP.

Meanwhile, Bernard Trubshaw, otherwise known as “C,” is obviously important. He’s high up in Secret Intelligence, and no sooner does he open that sticky door handle to get in than he collapses and goes limp. Soon he is whisked away, and no one knows where he’s gone. Or why. How many people are in on this? There are those whose job is to protect him. Of course there are the kidnappers, who are more than clever in executing their well-prepared plan. But we also learn that Trubshaw, far away and now awake, is not your typical victim. Apparently, he has also made clever plans of his own, and even in captivity, he surreptitiously knows how to cry for help––laptop wise. We then learn about artificial satellites developed by scientists, which can be dangerous and quite powerful. Along with 3 active components, they use grapheme polymer lasers and gamma ray radiation, which changes the climate. And if Trubshaw knows all of this, what kind of victim is he?

As the story progresses and we face constant twists and turns, Gates also shows his high proficiency in technology. We are exposed to special air service for very secret and dangerous activities, killing boxes, dead zones, figuring out passwords, cloned phones, geo-location, and weaponizing the weather. Whew! By the time I had turned all those pages, I realized that besides keeping me engaged, I had also learned a lot. So will you! I highly recommend this book.







Profile Image for Inge-Lise Goss.
Author 28 books341 followers
September 29, 2023
A Top-Notch Technothriller
“Leaving Shadows,” a Reader’s Favorite Gold Medal Winner, by Eric Gates offers an engaging, suspenseful thriller with unexpected twists and turns. It grabbed me in the beginning with the skillfully executed kidnapping of the Chief of the British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), Bernard Trubshaw. In order to keep the abduction of a high-ranking official from the public, Trubshaw had previously devised a contingency plan to handle such a situation. Following those instructions, the Deputy Chief of the SIS accompanied with the SIS liaison, Gary Deacon, solicit the help of a private firm that operates under the name Charlie Alsop Consulting Services (CACS). That firm is known for discretely locating and safely returning kidnapped victims along with any ransom paid.

When Trubshaw manages to escape from his abductors in Spain to handle a nefarious deal, his captors believe he has been kidnapped by another group. His highly trained abductors, CACS’s Delta team and Deacon all hunt for the Chief of the SIS. Will Trubshaw be found before he can consummate the deal that could cause havoc in the world with deadly consequences?

This is an amazing technothriller that kept me glued to the pages until the very end. All the characters were expertly created and the extensive descriptions of the technically in the book showed the author, Eric Gates, possesses a wealth of knowledge in that area. He has crafted an action-packed, intriguing story. I highly recommend this captivating read.
Profile Image for Louise.
1,495 reviews20 followers
October 29, 2022
The story starts with a countdown, registering twenty minutes. Finally reaching two minutes, the following paragraph starts with five minutes and ultimately the story starts. The chapters are short and they differ, so both the length of the chapters and the short snippets of text on new lines help push the story forward. While the story happens almost immediately, there are no insights into the characters; the book is plot-driven. Then suddenly names are thrown left, right, and centre; it's extremely difficult to understand who is who, the relationship the characters have with each other, and the motivation.

I lose track of what the story is about without referring back to the blurb, which already doesn't reveal a lot.


I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
Profile Image for D.G. Torrens.
Author 36 books171 followers
July 11, 2023
Leaving Shadows is a fast-paced edge-of- your- seat ride! It has a fantastic plot with well developed and believable characters. The plot is filled with twists and turns throughout. Action-packed and a rollercoaster of a journey right to the end.
I loved the note from the author at the end of the book.
This was the first book I have read by this author and it won't be my last! Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Mystee Pulcine.
282 reviews
July 5, 2019
I reeeeally wanted to like this book because I had liked another book from this author, but unfortunately, I only got a third of the way through this one and had to stop. My main complaints are too much telling and too much repetition of ideas from other books.

I had just come off of reading the first 2 Cull books from this author and not being too impressed, so seeing a lot of similarities in the plot of this book with that one really killed my interest. I guess secret government plots and crazily advanced computers are just not my things.... especially when I had just rejected a book with those things.

But also there was soooo much telling and so little showing. Each new character had pages and pages about them, but it was all telling me what had happened in the past to make them who they are rather than doing a flashback to show me. The slight difference in that writing makes me not care about the characters or even be able to keep my focus to read about them. I'm just disappointed to dislike another book from this author, but I will try again.
Profile Image for William O'Brien.
Author 42 books843 followers
January 5, 2015
Leaving Shadows
by Eric J. Gates

thrilling and forceful

A spectacular addition to the Gate's books - Leaving Shadows pulls out all the stops in this thrilling and forceful fictional creation of involving the British Secret Services and the American secret services.

Take heed of this amazing page-flipper switching between dynamics 5*****
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews

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