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THE ONLY WAY OUT IS UPFormer Blackhawk pilot Luke Angel wants nothing more than to enjoy the easy life he’s found in coastal Florida. He’s got a seaplane business, a well-trained dog, and a loyal and lovable crew to throw back margaritas with. But when a plane belonging to a friend goes missing from Luke’s airport, local detectives are understandably baffled. Clues are scattered from the Keys to the far side of the Gulf of Mexico, and Luke may be the only one with the connections to piece the puzzle back together.

The case rips open old family tensions for Luke and the woman he once loved. When his eleven-year-old niece gets dragged into the danger, Luke finds himself facing down elements of his past he thought long buried.

Dipping his floats into murky water has Luke tangling with deadly people who’d love nothing more than to clip his wings.

He’ll have to fly fast if he wants to protect the people he loves, or he’ll end up at the bottom of the bay.

Take off for an unforgettable ride. Get yours today.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 25, 2023

444 people are currently reading
250 people want to read

About the author

Nathan Van Coops

28 books507 followers
Nathan Van Coops lives in St. Petersburg, Florida on a diet comprised mainly of tacos. When not tinkering on old airplanes, he writes heroic adventure stories that explore imaginative new worlds. He is the author of the time travel adventure series In Times Like These, the time travel detective series Paradox PI, and The Skylighter Adventures. His recent series, Kingdom of Engines explores a swashbuckling alternate history where the modern and medieval collide. He also writes aviation mystery thrillers under the name Nate Van Coops. Learn more at www.nathanvancoops.com or www.natevancoops.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for Nina (ninjasbooks).
1,626 reviews1,752 followers
February 11, 2026
Gosh. I loved the funny main character who managed to keep his sarcasm in the most dire circumstances. The plot was great and the hours flew by in record time.
Profile Image for Ginelle Blanch.
935 reviews26 followers
August 18, 2023
This book was FULL of action which really kept the story moving. Being that I'm not a plane junkie, it did lag in places that got technical...which gave me a chance to learn since I googled what I didn't know, ha!

Van Coops' "real feel" characters and amazing friendships are what keep me coming back to his books. They always have so much heart and a lot of humor. Some of them you really just want to shake and, he isn't easy on his poor heroes. By the end of the book, many feel like friends. And, I liked how multifaceted some of the characters in this book were, not clearly black/white but, also shades of grey. I really loved Luke (our hero) and Reese...and Murphy the dog! And, Harper, Luke's niece was so well written.

Really fun, interesting read. I'd love to see more of this world and characters.
Profile Image for Bethany Cousins.
390 reviews8 followers
August 17, 2023
"There was only one guarantee in our plan, and finding trouble was it."

Nate Van Coops takes readers on an exhilarating journey in Tropic Angel. This gripping tale follows Luke Angel, a pilot and airplane mechanic who runs his own repair business. When a friend from the skies vanishes, Luke is pulled into a web of deception and peril. Having worked hard to separate himself from his own family's unlawful background, Luke faces an exhilarating challenge in his pursuit of an honest life when his tumultuous history comes back to haunt him.

In this captivating first installment of the aviation mystery series, Nate Van Coops skillfully intertwines elements of mystery, pulse-pounding action, high-flying adventure, and palpable danger. The narrative brims with unforgettable characters (the legendary Reese will be hard to top), fueled by an evident passion for aircraft and the art of flying. The signature blend of excitement and humour propels the story forward, culminating in a triumph of storytelling.

Stepping away from his familiar realms of science fiction and detective thrillers, Tropic Angel showcases Nate Van Coops' remarkable versatility as an author. Seamlessly transitioning into this new genre, he solidifies his reputation as an author with a multifaceted and all-encompassing creative prowess. This book is a resounding victory from all angles, and I eagerly await more from this thrilling aviation mystery series!
6,726 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2024
Entertaining relationships listening 🎶🔰

This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book one of two

What a great will written novel with interesting characters lots of action and misdirection leading to the conclusion.

I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends adventure thriller mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😊💘
6,280 reviews81 followers
January 5, 2024
A doctor flies off into the sunset, and disappears. Is he alive, dead, or in trouble? HIs brother in law, a boat dwelling pilot, tries to find him, and finds himself in a peck of trouble.

The pilot stuff makes this one stand out a little from the usual.
Profile Image for Kristine.
3,475 reviews52 followers
February 5, 2026
This was a fun and unexpected surprise. I started this book because it just happened to be Audible's Book of the Day. The summary sounded interesting and I thought, "What the heck?" and clicked the play button.

We get to meet our MMC and Former Blackhawk pilot Luke Angel. Luke owns Archangel Aviation - which specializes in airplane maintenance. He also comes from a family that has played fast and loose with the law for his entire life and he has worked very hard to distance himself from them. His father is currently in prison, and he is not in contact with his brother.

Everything starts when his former brother in law Chris disappears and law enforcement gets involved in looking for him. The evidence seems to alternate between an apparent suicide and a possible murder - but they have not found his body. Unfortunately, Luke was the last person to see him and there are several small little things that are beginning to add up to bigger things. The lead detective seems to be focusing in on Luke. At the same time, Luke is sure that his sister-in-law (Chris' wife) might be involved and then to top things off, there seems to be some cartel guys sniffing around the airplane hanger. Talk about a snowball.

I really enjoyed this book. It was a fast paced and easy to read (or listen to) book that I finished in one sitting. Luke is a very likeable character and to make things even better, he has a great sidekick in his dog Murphy. LOVED him :)

There is also the on again off again relationship between Luke and his ex-wife Cassidy. Definitely some potential there.

All in all, it was a pleasant surprise, and I am looking forward to continuing on with the series.
78 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2023
Just finished "Tropic Angel" by Nate Van Coops, and I'm absolutely impressed! The plot had an awesome rhythm that kept me completely engaged, and if you're local to St. Petersburg, Florida, you'll love spotting familiar places. What's more, the character development of the main character, Luke Angel, who could be your local pilot, is brilliantly crafted. It adds an exciting dimension to the story. Highly recommend for an engaging and fun read!
Profile Image for Susan.
515 reviews12 followers
April 8, 2025
Not my usual genre, so I wasn't really into it. Only listened because it was a cheap Audible daily special, and the ratings were so good. Not sure why the ratings are so high.
Profile Image for Emily.
83 reviews
March 2, 2024
I work at this airport and know many of the (real) people NVC has based his characters on! His description of downtown St Pete and AWA is spot-on - nothing ficticious about it! You can literally smell the Avgas and sea salt.

A good mini-thriller, easy and quick to read, with a healthy blend of characters you learn to care about, and some you just want to smack with a towbar.

(At first I thought the airplane on the cover was a Grumman Widgeon, but was corrected when the author stated it is a Grumman Mallard. Oopsie!) I sure feel like getting in the left seat again after reading this. Been a while.

Keep on writing, Nate!
14 reviews
March 29, 2024
Great Aviation Thriller!

I’d been searching for a well-balanced story offering escapism (the sunny Caribbean), aviation (flying and airplanes but not over the top textbook stuff), compelling characters and a great plot, and Van Coops delivers. I read this in two sittings. Very much looking forward to the rest of the series.
6 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2024
Excellent story. Van Coops can write

I got interested in Nate reading the time travel books. But I’m liking this series, too. He writes witty but not too cute dialogue, and his stories are right up my alley. Gotta go start the next one…
Profile Image for D.S. Mac.
Author 1 book38 followers
February 19, 2024
Brilliant new Thriller by Nate!

Great story with some really likeable characters. Can't wait for the second.
Profile Image for Marcia Esders.
979 reviews5 followers
September 2, 2023
Great read

I read this after it had been recommended…. I had never read this author before, but it was full of mystery and intrigue, beautiful setting, and interesting characters. I wouldn’t hesitate reading the next in this series.
Profile Image for Mark Hale.
9 reviews
August 22, 2023
Nathan, is there no end to your talent?
Tropic Angel is an electrifying masterpiece that effortlessly weaves together the world of aviation, a missing friend, and a dark underground into a heart-pounding story.

As per his other books, Nathan has crafted a meticulously detailed plot that kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. What I always love about Nathan's stories is that he really dives into the detail, yet doesn’t go overboard. As a fellow aviator, I love the various aviation references which bring the story to life on an additional level, even mentioning a couple of tricks that I now want to go and try, yet you certainly don’t have to be an aviator to enjoy the story.

Set against the backdrop of the Florida skies, the story introduces us to a cast of characters, Luke Angel a pilot and mechanic running his own business finds himself reluctantly drawn into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse when one of his friends goes missing. What follows is an intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the suspense at an all-time high. The parallel narratives of Luke's pursuit for the truth and the desperate plight of his missing friend and those around him generate an emotional investment that lingers long after the last page is turned. The character development is exceptional, as we witness Luke's transformation from a reluctant hero to a determined aviator willing to risk it all to save lives.
Tropic Angel is more than just an action-packed thriller, it's an astonishing narrative that seamlessly melds the worlds of aviation, the criminal underworld, and human emotion. With Nathan's masterful storytelling, compelling characters, and heart-stopping action, this novel is an absolute must-read for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey through the skies and the depths of the human spirit. If you thought Nathan was just great at writing sci-fi novels, you are in for a real treat, this change in genre really highlights Nathan's ability as a very skilful author. I look forward to taking to the skies with Nathan and Luke once more.
Profile Image for Sarah Michelle Bush.
8 reviews
November 6, 2023
Having read other genres from this author, I admit I had predicted that I would enjoy this book as well. It was a departure from the time travel sci-fi and young adult fiction but definitely exceeded my expectations. You can sense the confidence of the story being set in the author's much loved location of Saint Petersburg, Florida where the thriller mystery takes place. The main character is interesting and troubled, someone to watch and root for in future books. Reading this book, it is quick to draw you into the family dynamics and danger surrounding the cast of characters involved in the drama unfolding over the pages. The introduction to Luke Angel feels like reading about a real person, someone who has experienced tough times and is relatable to anyone who has lost a loved one or has challenges with ex-relationships and estranged family members. I am also a sucker for a furry sidekick and you always know they are a good judge of character. This book takes you on a literal high flying adventure while giving you a gritty and messy situation to untangle while along for the ride. You can appreciate the skills and friendships of our newest hero and when this adventure concludes feel like the exhilaration and effort give you a taste for more.
Profile Image for Stoli.
256 reviews9 followers
January 26, 2024
Picked up this gem on a whim because I loved the title and cover. Boy am I glad I did! It was just what I needed after too much urban-fantasy and post-apocalyptic genres. This was a straight up action adventure novel that would make a terrific movie!

The story centers around a veteran pilot and his crew and family; all likeable characters and well-written in their own right. Plus, his pets are a welcome addition that further endear the MC to the reader. All the information on planes was seamlessly added to the story, so the reader doesn’t feel bogged down by info dumps as can sometimes happen in action/military style books. A light, easy read to add to your TBR pile.

Overall, I highly recommend this book if you’re a fan of entertaining adventure books with a little mystery thrown in! Loved the Magnum PI references! And don’t forget to read the epilogue, it’ll make you go “oooh” with that little nugget of subterfuge. Can’t wait for the next Luke Angel novel!
Profile Image for Bethany Smith.
653 reviews
January 19, 2025
This was an OK mystery. The story introduces Luke Angel, a Former Blackhawk pilot, who retired from the military to become an owner of a small airport in Florida. Luke's family history is notorious and a history with which Luke wants nothing to do. But when his brother drags him back into his past, Luke has to find a way out, all while protecting his family, who has been placed in the center of the mystery.

The book had to introduce all the characters because this is the first of a series, and the author did a good job developing Luke, his ex-wife, and his right-hand person at the airport, with a tangential introduction of his sister- and brother-in-law and niece. The story goes quickly, which I do like in a book. I'll read the next in the series, as subsequent books are typically better than the first.
Profile Image for Karen.
225 reviews2 followers
August 27, 2023
Note: I received an ARC and really enjoyed the book and finished reading on the day of release.

I love the sci-if and time travel books written under the name Nathan Van Coops, and decided to give this one a try even though I don’t usually read action books. I was happy that I decided to give it a try.

The character development is great and not bogged down as is sometimes the case in a series introductory novel. The story is believable even though action stories can sometimes be over the top with an impossible to kill lead character. I look forward to additional stories in the series.

Also, I highly recommend the In Times Like These Time Travel series by Nathan Van Coops. It is one of the better time travel series, and I’ve read many.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
90 reviews2 followers
September 7, 2023
I love to fly. I also love flying in small airplanes, so this aviation adventure is my type of book. Throw in a likable hero, exciting, eye widening scenes, fun humor, interesting friends, a bit of romance, a mystery that has everyone stumped and I am on board.
Nate’s writing is absolutely excellent and far superior to many other authors I have read. It was a delight to read this book. You have well defined characters, realistic and relatable relationships and are exposed to some thoughts about life you may want to embrace.
Our central character, Luke, is a hero I want to root for. The mystery he wants to help solve is puzzling and intriguing.
So pull the chocks and join me in reading Nate’s aviation thriller, with hopefully more to come!
Profile Image for Linda.
772 reviews18 followers
May 27, 2025
**Won me over in the first chapter**

I love when my first book experience from a new author comes out the gate strong and maintains that pace for most if not the entire way through. This thing did almost everything right from the start: introduced me to starring characters, make said characters likable, lull me into the premise without taking too long, and maintain a constant flowing pace with minimal disruptions or draggy bits. It's amazing how immediately invested I was, from beginning to end. I eagerly wanted to join in on solving the mystery and appreciated the variety of thrills to get there.

My main complaint (because yeah, complaints exist) was centered mostly around the somewhat "flamboyant" third act that got a wee bit too far-fetched and mildly ridiculous. It wasn't to the point of derailing the story or ruining things, but it definitely had me feeling some kind of way when such a carefully crafted tale stumbled as much as it did just trying to stick the landing. It's like someone tripping badly just as they cross the finish line. On the one hand, yay to finishing a hard-fought and nearly perfect race, but on the other hand, those are some mighty skinned knees.

At any rate, I enjoyed myself with this one, and look forward to the next entry.
Profile Image for Lisa .
10 reviews33 followers
August 29, 2023
This was a great start to what is hopefully (fingers crossed) a new series by one of my favorite authors. This outing is a fun thriller with a really unique setting - the world of airplanes. I was so engrossed in the characters and constantly guessing where the mystery was going that I could not put the book down! As usual, the author brings so much depth to the characters that you really feel invested in them. From the main character of Luke Angel, to all the supporting characters (even the villains), you definitely want to spend more time with them. This was clearly a passion project for the author as you can tell he poured his heart and experience out on the page. Book 2 please!
1,806 reviews15 followers
June 6, 2025
If you like amphibious planes, salt water, dogs, beautiful women and action this book is in your wheelhouse. It's based out of a very real airport in Tampa. That helps ground it in reality - gives it that extra boost when the action is a stretch, not more than with most actions stories! The good guys are in it all the way, except that it takes some time for the good streaks to resolve. It's interesting to see how each person pushes through who they are to become the key players.

I whole heartedly enjoyed this book. You get the chance to pick up an epilogue. It fills in story details that you may have guessed at as the story ended. The next book looks to be equally exciting.
11 reviews
June 16, 2025
The start of a great adventure!

When I started this series I had no idea that one of my favorite characters would be a Grumman Mallard is a 1940s-era, twin-engine, amphibious plane. But sure enough the intrepid old girl shows up with grit and power through each book. The other characters are good also. A reluctant hero, his loyal dog, a trusty sidekick, and complex family and friend relationships bring human elements to the mystery. Each book is a complete story while the characters show up in each book developing depth as each new story unfolds. I love the Florida setting and while I don’t fly I enjoyed all the flying scenes.
Profile Image for Niki.
3 reviews
October 26, 2023
As a pilot and mystery genre lover, Tropic Angel ticked all of my boxes for a great read. The book is full of action and kept me engaged from start to finish. Van Coops’ aviation knowledge really shines through as this story was able to place me right in the cockpit with Luke Angel and his crew. The aviation centered sections of the book were accurate and a real treat for someone that flies general aviation aircraft frequently. I hope to see more aviation themed stories from Van Coops in the future!
134 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2023
review of “Tropic Angel”” by Nathan Van Coops

Wow it’s been a short while since I read a book by Nathan and he did not disappoint. Totally different genre for him and I loved it. Read it in 2 days. Lots of interesting characters leaving a lot of room for future adventures. Luke Angel will return I presume. I was hooked by page one. I guess I’ll just have to wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Angela Whitmore.
483 reviews
January 8, 2024
Flying high

This is not my usual genre of choice but I have loved NVC's previous fantasy and time travel novels so had to check out his new venture. The author himself is a pilot so obviously there is is a lot of detail in this thriller set around an aviation business run by a guy who has flying in his blood.
His family are also good at making bad choices which means a whole lot of trouble coming his way.
Good start to a new series.
98 reviews1 follower
January 9, 2024
I have read several of Nate Van Coops time travel and sci-fi books and enjoyed them all. I was really looking forward to reading Tropic Angel and, to be fair, he seriously exceeded my expectations! This is a really well thought out thriller and the fact that Nate is writing about the subject (aviation) which forms the backbone of his life serves to make it even better! An absolute blast of a book, highly recommended.
122 reviews2 followers
April 7, 2024
Buckle up ...

... as you're in for one heck of a ride with " Tropic Angel," Book 1 of Author Van Coops, Archangel Aviation Thrillers!
The book has a fast-moving story-line, an interesting plot, wonderfully drawn-out characters, and action-galore!! Add a bit of romance and enough humor to make you laugh out loud, and you end up with a great read!
Book 2 in this series, here I come!
477 reviews3 followers
July 10, 2024
Fantastic

Wow talk about De ja vue st Petersburg Fla my home town gotta love the locals my cuz lives in shore acres and I'm on the flight path outs the Albert whitehead air port the story was great lots of twists and turns no one go to st Anthony's hospital
Where I spent 21 yrs with bay care but looking forward to more from NATE ciao from Costa Rica from my Scotty Bobbie and George....
Profile Image for Donn  Brown.
9 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2024
I love to read of Florida adventurers. Luke Angel is one.

A resident of SW Florida for almost fifty years has finally rubbed off on me as have the writers of Tropical Authors. Nate's writing style is easy to follow, yet he slips in a few surprises. He has the knowledge and experience to factually tell his story and make it believable. I am impatiently waiting for book three of TROPIC ANGLE!
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