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Jed Walker #1
The Spy
'Jed Walker is right there in Reacher's rear-view mirror.' Lee Child, international bestselling author. Jed Walker is the man you want watching your back.
A sinister group code-named Zodiac has launched devastating global attacks. Twelve targets across the world, twelve code-named missions.
Operating distinct sleeper cells, they are the ultimate terrorist organisation, watching and waiting for a precise attack to activate the next group. It is a frightening and deadly efficient way to stay one step ahead. And cause the most chaos.
For ex-CIA operative Jed Walker, chaos is his profession. On the outer, burned by his former agency, he is determined to clear his name. Stopping Zodiac is the only way. Desperate to catch the killers and find the mastermind, he can t afford to lose the next lead, but that means that sometimes the terrorists have to win.
Ultimately, it all comes down to Walker: he s the only one who can break the chain and put the group to sleep . . . permanently. It s exactly eighty-one hours until deadline.
A sinister group code-named Zodiac has launched devastating global attacks. Twelve targets across the world, twelve code-named missions.
Operating distinct sleeper cells, they are the ultimate terrorist organisation, watching and waiting for a precise attack to activate the next group. It is a frightening and deadly efficient way to stay one step ahead. And cause the most chaos.
For ex-CIA operative Jed Walker, chaos is his profession. On the outer, burned by his former agency, he is determined to clear his name. Stopping Zodiac is the only way. Desperate to catch the killers and find the mastermind, he can t afford to lose the next lead, but that means that sometimes the terrorists have to win.
Ultimately, it all comes down to Walker: he s the only one who can break the chain and put the group to sleep . . . permanently. It s exactly eighty-one hours until deadline.
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2013
122 people are currently reading
3592 people want to read
About the author
James Phelan
36 books257 followersJames Phelan is the award-winning author of twenty-four novels and one work of non-fiction. He first studied and worked in architecture before turning to English/Lit, working five years at The Age newspaper, obtaining an MA (Writing) and PhD (Young Adult Literature).
Hachette has published his five geo-political thrillers: FOX HUNT, PATRIOT ACT, BLOOD OIL, LIQUID GOLD and RED ICE.
From 2010-2011, Hachette published the widely acclaimed ALONE trilogy of Young Adult post-apocalyptic/dystopian novels.
In 2013/2014, Scholastic published James' thirteen-book adventure series about the dream work THE LAST THIRTEEN. The multi-award winning series (2014 YABBA, COOL, KOALA awards) has been highly successful around the world, selling over a million copies in 18 months.
THE SPY (Hachette, 2013), was the first instalment in a new series of suspense thrillers with the protagonist Jed Walker, and is followed by THE HUNTED (2015), and KILL SWITCH (2015).
James is currently working on a follow-up trilogy to THE LAST THIRTEEN, more thrillers, and an illustrated middle-grade series titled GRANDPA SPIES.
James has taught writing at post-graduate level and regularly talks at schools, libraries and universities around the world. Since 2006 he has sold over 4 million copies of his books.
Hachette has published his five geo-political thrillers: FOX HUNT, PATRIOT ACT, BLOOD OIL, LIQUID GOLD and RED ICE.
From 2010-2011, Hachette published the widely acclaimed ALONE trilogy of Young Adult post-apocalyptic/dystopian novels.
In 2013/2014, Scholastic published James' thirteen-book adventure series about the dream work THE LAST THIRTEEN. The multi-award winning series (2014 YABBA, COOL, KOALA awards) has been highly successful around the world, selling over a million copies in 18 months.
THE SPY (Hachette, 2013), was the first instalment in a new series of suspense thrillers with the protagonist Jed Walker, and is followed by THE HUNTED (2015), and KILL SWITCH (2015).
James is currently working on a follow-up trilogy to THE LAST THIRTEEN, more thrillers, and an illustrated middle-grade series titled GRANDPA SPIES.
James has taught writing at post-graduate level and regularly talks at schools, libraries and universities around the world. Since 2006 he has sold over 4 million copies of his books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
January 8, 2016
I really enjoyed this book and am surprised it gets quite a low rating overall in its reviews. I liked Jed, the main character. He has a lot of Jack Reacher in him, especially when he takes on whole groups of special agents and always wins! I don't mind suspending belief when I am reading this kind of book and I like a hero who always comes out on top regardless of the odds. The book is fast paced and action packed. I took one star off for the fact that there were so many people double crossing everybody else that I was unable to work out who was who. In the end I just let it go and enjoyed the fun. And it was very enjoyable. The ending guarantees that you have to at least open the next book. I will be reading it with great enthusiasm.
November 29, 2015
4.5★s
Ex-CIA operative Jed Walker was in deep cover; tasked with a job that tested his patience completely, the desert of Yemen was not a good place to be. But Jed was nothing if not patient – he was known for his intense control, his calm in the middle of trouble. So when trouble did strike that day, Jed once again kept his cool, and made it out alive – just…
One year later Jed was following the money – he’d always been told to follow the money and he’d find the end result. But he was on a deadline; it was counting down and he was on his own. The terrorist group he was chasing had people in all places; even the ones you’d never dream of – but Jed knew they were there. He also knew he could trust absolutely no one. When he was apprehended in Naples, once again his focus kept him from panicking. But was this the end? He had to reach the person who was controlling the terrorist cells – if he didn’t the results would be more catastrophic than 9/11…
The Spy by Aussie author James Phelan is an excellent thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed. The pace is relentless; the pages were almost turning themselves. Gripping, intense and horribly believable; with a great new character in Jed Walker; and an ending which almost made me grab the next one immediately! The Spy is a thriller which I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
Ex-CIA operative Jed Walker was in deep cover; tasked with a job that tested his patience completely, the desert of Yemen was not a good place to be. But Jed was nothing if not patient – he was known for his intense control, his calm in the middle of trouble. So when trouble did strike that day, Jed once again kept his cool, and made it out alive – just…
One year later Jed was following the money – he’d always been told to follow the money and he’d find the end result. But he was on a deadline; it was counting down and he was on his own. The terrorist group he was chasing had people in all places; even the ones you’d never dream of – but Jed knew they were there. He also knew he could trust absolutely no one. When he was apprehended in Naples, once again his focus kept him from panicking. But was this the end? He had to reach the person who was controlling the terrorist cells – if he didn’t the results would be more catastrophic than 9/11…
The Spy by Aussie author James Phelan is an excellent thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed. The pace is relentless; the pages were almost turning themselves. Gripping, intense and horribly believable; with a great new character in Jed Walker; and an ending which almost made me grab the next one immediately! The Spy is a thriller which I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
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January 5, 2019
Audiobook - 09:48 hours - Narrator: Mulraney Adrian
A not very solid 3.0 stars, but a 3.0 nonetheless.
A 'barely satisfactory' and 'barely credible' story/plot, and dialogue that vacillates between 'corny and trite'. It's readable/listenable, but that's about it. I probably won't be reading #2 in the series.
A not very solid 3.0 stars, but a 3.0 nonetheless.
A 'barely satisfactory' and 'barely credible' story/plot, and dialogue that vacillates between 'corny and trite'. It's readable/listenable, but that's about it. I probably won't be reading #2 in the series.
February 16, 2015
Jed Walker is a man that knows his stuff and can get himself out of any situation. He will kill bad guys without a second thought but he is a man with a conscience. He is not about to harm the innocent or leave a lady stranded. He believes in protecting his country at all costs.
The Spy is the first novel in the Jed Walker series and the reader gets to know the background of Walker and some of the supporting characters.
I liked the short chapters which are perfect if you are strapped for reading time. You can just read a quick chapter whenever. As each chapter progresses there is a countdown to a deadline. Reading the chapters and checking the time left was like watching a bomb timer ticking down. As the clocked ticked down the suspense ramped up.
Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp, Jed Walker. I don’t care if they are similar. I can’t get enough of these good guys, putting their lives on the line, fighting the baddies to make this world a better place.
My only complaint would be that there are a lot of characters introduced in this story and I got confused who worked for who and who was on which side. This becomes clearer towards the end when the main characters take over the story line.
If you are into espionage, politics and intrigue you will enjoy The Spy.
The Spy is the first novel in the Jed Walker series and the reader gets to know the background of Walker and some of the supporting characters.
I liked the short chapters which are perfect if you are strapped for reading time. You can just read a quick chapter whenever. As each chapter progresses there is a countdown to a deadline. Reading the chapters and checking the time left was like watching a bomb timer ticking down. As the clocked ticked down the suspense ramped up.
Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp, Jed Walker. I don’t care if they are similar. I can’t get enough of these good guys, putting their lives on the line, fighting the baddies to make this world a better place.
My only complaint would be that there are a lot of characters introduced in this story and I got confused who worked for who and who was on which side. This becomes clearer towards the end when the main characters take over the story line.
If you are into espionage, politics and intrigue you will enjoy The Spy.
June 6, 2017
3.5★ I enjoyed this, although there were too many people going after Jed Walker for me to keep track of who was against him and to work out why. But I let go of trying to hold all the threads and just allowed myself to go with the flow and it was a good action read.
September 30, 2025
This had glimmers of a less generic Steely-Eyed Operator thriller, but glimmers is all it was, and then the author decided he wanted to milk the thing until the undertakers come. Oh well.
December 22, 2013
Jed Walker is a new and improved version of Lachlan Fox from Fox Hunt and this book features characters from that series. At times the characters were interchangeable as they are so similar and the stories are much the same style.
This is an action/thriller/spy story but it employs one of the things I hate about them. The author hides the motives and reasoning from reader. The protagonist will now what is happening but the reader is only show this slowly, a little bit at a time. This can be done very well or can be done badly as in this case. It makes for a frustrating read for me.
The ending of this story is totally annoying. “A shot rang out.”……..The End……..is not an ending. It’s only setting the start of the next book in the series, as this is clearly only episode 1 in a thirteen part series. This is the classic television cliff hanger and that is why I don’t watch that much TV. I read a book to read a story. Not be tricked into reading the next book. This is just a marketing ploy and one I totally loath.
This is an action/thriller/spy story but it employs one of the things I hate about them. The author hides the motives and reasoning from reader. The protagonist will now what is happening but the reader is only show this slowly, a little bit at a time. This can be done very well or can be done badly as in this case. It makes for a frustrating read for me.
The ending of this story is totally annoying. “A shot rang out.”……..The End……..is not an ending. It’s only setting the start of the next book in the series, as this is clearly only episode 1 in a thirteen part series. This is the classic television cliff hanger and that is why I don’t watch that much TV. I read a book to read a story. Not be tricked into reading the next book. This is just a marketing ploy and one I totally loath.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2018
Jed Walker is an ex-CIA operative - in fact, he's worked for half the American alphabet organisations. He's that good. He's in Yemen, showing his famous patience, checking out a lead from the death of Osama bin Laden when it is knowlingly bombed out of existence by his own side. Just as he manages to get information that turns everything on it's head from his dying target, his own colleague draws on him! Then the Americans knowingly bomb him too.
A year later he is in Naples: a KIA ghost following the money. He knows he has a deadline. This conspiracy reaches high and will have catastrophic consequences if he doesn't unravel the clues.
This was a well written book that just didn't quite grab me. Firstly, I have to disclose this is not my cup of tea. Frankly, unless the characters are well drawn and sympathetic, I don't much care if the world is taken over by conspiracy laden opportunists. And the characters just do not ring true for me. They make completely unrealistic choices with no reasonable explanation. Lastly, there is a cliffhanger which is my pet hate. Getting three stars is a miracle of good writing in the circumstances!
A year later he is in Naples: a KIA ghost following the money. He knows he has a deadline. This conspiracy reaches high and will have catastrophic consequences if he doesn't unravel the clues.
This was a well written book that just didn't quite grab me. Firstly, I have to disclose this is not my cup of tea. Frankly, unless the characters are well drawn and sympathetic, I don't much care if the world is taken over by conspiracy laden opportunists. And the characters just do not ring true for me. They make completely unrealistic choices with no reasonable explanation. Lastly, there is a cliffhanger which is my pet hate. Getting three stars is a miracle of good writing in the circumstances!
August 25, 2018
This is okay, the series has potential but as a first book there are some minor issues. The main character is a bit of a Jack Reacher (very capable, always two steps ahead of an opponent) while also being a bit of a Pike Logan from Brad Taylor’s series. So a very capable operative. Assumed KIA in a deliberate friendly fire incident, Jed Walker is a lone wolf on the trail of a bunch of bad guys that tried to kill him and have plans for something big in the US. Mainly here his enemies are originating from a US source and Walker does not know which agency to trust as he nears a deadline for a “spectacular”, but as always things are no what they seem.
There are some minor bumps (a female chucked into the mix that doesn’t really work) but also some good and thrilling moments along with pace and a few surprises.
Liked it enough to be looking for the next one.
There are some minor bumps (a female chucked into the mix that doesn’t really work) but also some good and thrilling moments along with pace and a few surprises.
Liked it enough to be looking for the next one.
February 14, 2015
This book was far from perfect, with a few mistakes that someone should of picked up in the editing, but as a whole, I did enjoy this.
I am not American and have no real interest in the politics of America, but still read this from cover to cover fairly quickly.
Jed Walker interested me, but I still don't feel that I know much about him. I will admit that it took me a while to be able to remember who was who, and I think a bit more description of people and places was called for.
I do see me reading at least one more book in this series before I make any final decision on if I will finish this series or not.
I am not American and have no real interest in the politics of America, but still read this from cover to cover fairly quickly.
Jed Walker interested me, but I still don't feel that I know much about him. I will admit that it took me a while to be able to remember who was who, and I think a bit more description of people and places was called for.
I do see me reading at least one more book in this series before I make any final decision on if I will finish this series or not.
December 28, 2021
A no-nonsense espionage thriller. Everything you would expect from this kind of book. Fast paced and action right from the off with murder, betrayal and conspiracy. It was an entertaining and a light read.
The hero of the book is Jed Walker. As expected he is indestructible getting himself out of situations with seemingly impossible odds. It starts with him nearly being killed by people who appear to be on his team. What results is Jed trying to uncover what happened then and what it currently leads to now. A conspiracy plan begins to be revealed with people set to make a lot of money. It is up to Jed to put a stop to this.
Walker is your typical spy. Unbeatable in close combat with a shady past that is uncertain and a lot of secrets yet to be uncovered. He has family that is has attempted to distance himself from but naturally they have a role to play. It is a blueprint that is successful and entertaining. I wasn’t expecting anything too outrageous and it delivered on what you seek from spy thrillers.
There were a lot of loose ends that will lead to the next book. Obviously the main plot was revealed but to me there seemed so many unanswered questions that I felt something was missing a bit. It certainly tempts you into trying the next book that’s for sure with a huge cliff hanger ending.
This spy thriller to me doesn’t reinvent the wheel in this genre. As long as you go into reading this book knowing the type of things to expect then you will enjoy it. It was fast paced and enjoyable taking me a couple of days to storm through.
The hero of the book is Jed Walker. As expected he is indestructible getting himself out of situations with seemingly impossible odds. It starts with him nearly being killed by people who appear to be on his team. What results is Jed trying to uncover what happened then and what it currently leads to now. A conspiracy plan begins to be revealed with people set to make a lot of money. It is up to Jed to put a stop to this.
Walker is your typical spy. Unbeatable in close combat with a shady past that is uncertain and a lot of secrets yet to be uncovered. He has family that is has attempted to distance himself from but naturally they have a role to play. It is a blueprint that is successful and entertaining. I wasn’t expecting anything too outrageous and it delivered on what you seek from spy thrillers.
There were a lot of loose ends that will lead to the next book. Obviously the main plot was revealed but to me there seemed so many unanswered questions that I felt something was missing a bit. It certainly tempts you into trying the next book that’s for sure with a huge cliff hanger ending.
This spy thriller to me doesn’t reinvent the wheel in this genre. As long as you go into reading this book knowing the type of things to expect then you will enjoy it. It was fast paced and enjoyable taking me a couple of days to storm through.
May 21, 2018
Conspiracy after conspiracy in this book and a lot of characters to keep track of, but an action packed read.
August 12, 2023
This was a kind of popcorn action read - fun enough but not really believable.
May 10, 2020
Great read,fantastic, action packed, very hard to put down. Heart pumping all the way.
July 3, 2017
This book talks about terrorism & all those behind the scene betrayals. (15 out of 15 goal achieved)
October 22, 2013
This is certainly a page turner - the plot moves very quickly (standard for this style of book), the chapters are short (averaging about 3 pages each) and there is enough action to please most readers. The storyline is very current - both Bradley Manning and Edward Snowden are mentioned - and the plot, while not likely, is not as far-fetched as some in this genre. Jed Walker, the hero, does perform some acts which push at the boundaries of suspension of disbelief, which is, again, pretty standard for this genre, but certainly doesn't go as far as Matthew Reilly's Scarecrow, who completely destroys those boundaries.
The copy I have is a pre-release, uncorrected proof reading copy, so there were a few spelling and grammar errors that I hope will be corrected before its release in late November. And there was one error which will horrify the mathematically literate, or even semi-literate, among the readers - when Newton's 2nd law of relativity is referred to, which doesn't exist. What they clearly meant was Newton's 3rd law of motion.
But, overall, if you enjoy fast-paced military-political thrillers, then you'll likely enjoy this book.
The copy I have is a pre-release, uncorrected proof reading copy, so there were a few spelling and grammar errors that I hope will be corrected before its release in late November. And there was one error which will horrify the mathematically literate, or even semi-literate, among the readers - when Newton's 2nd law of relativity is referred to, which doesn't exist. What they clearly meant was Newton's 3rd law of motion.
But, overall, if you enjoy fast-paced military-political thrillers, then you'll likely enjoy this book.
July 30, 2015
Good quick read - perfect for the beach or when you don't need to concentrate too much. Certain to become another Tom Cruise movie soon.
September 8, 2018
Just goes on and on.
Meanders from nowhere to nowhere. Big disappointment.
Don't think I will follow the indicated
twelve more tales in the series.
Meanders from nowhere to nowhere. Big disappointment.
Don't think I will follow the indicated
twelve more tales in the series.
August 24, 2024
Jed Walker is one of a kind!
Part vigilante. Part ex-CIA. 100% Tough Guy. 100% Attitude.
??Part Jack Reacher??
And not bad looking at all!
He’s just the type of guy you’d want on your side if/when you were ever in a jam!
Cue the lights!
We actually begin the book with the team involved on the hit that took Bin Laden’s life…and then continue on from there…
There’s some awfully strange things going on around here…
And people keep dying. Friends. Enemies. Some targets are people in high places… Terrorism?
Wait! How can this be happening? Jed kinda thinks he’s seen it all, but maybe not…
Being as Jed is a ghost, he’s literally perfect for the job!! But…he’s basically working alone. As a ghost. Can he get the job done?? Can he rely on ANYONE to help him?
When he finds out that the ‘mission’ is called the Zodiac…well, he begins to worry. Does that mean there could possibly be that many targets??
Lots of action. Lots of killing. Lots of stuff he’s not quite comprehending…yet.
And, as we globe trot around the world, well, we find that he’s everywhere! He’s calling in favors from the past, as well as meeting new people (accomplice’s? / enemies??) And…trying to dodge his own death along the way!
Great first book in a new series! If you like Jack Reacher, You’ll like Jed Walker!
And the ending??!! 😮😮😮
Still haven’t recovered from the last couple of chapters…but so looking forward to the next books!
Thanks to #NetGalley and #BlackstonePublishing for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review! I was so happy to receive it on 8/22!!
This was already released, so you can look for it on shelves now!
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me, rounded up to 5!
#TheSpy by #JamesPhelan and narrated nicely by #RobShapiro.
Book #1 in the new series!
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
Insta @ #BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, and click ‘LIKE’ below!! 📚⭐️
Part vigilante. Part ex-CIA. 100% Tough Guy. 100% Attitude.
??Part Jack Reacher??
And not bad looking at all!
He’s just the type of guy you’d want on your side if/when you were ever in a jam!
Cue the lights!
We actually begin the book with the team involved on the hit that took Bin Laden’s life…and then continue on from there…
There’s some awfully strange things going on around here…
And people keep dying. Friends. Enemies. Some targets are people in high places… Terrorism?
Wait! How can this be happening? Jed kinda thinks he’s seen it all, but maybe not…
Being as Jed is a ghost, he’s literally perfect for the job!! But…he’s basically working alone. As a ghost. Can he get the job done?? Can he rely on ANYONE to help him?
When he finds out that the ‘mission’ is called the Zodiac…well, he begins to worry. Does that mean there could possibly be that many targets??
Lots of action. Lots of killing. Lots of stuff he’s not quite comprehending…yet.
And, as we globe trot around the world, well, we find that he’s everywhere! He’s calling in favors from the past, as well as meeting new people (accomplice’s? / enemies??) And…trying to dodge his own death along the way!
Great first book in a new series! If you like Jack Reacher, You’ll like Jed Walker!
And the ending??!! 😮😮😮
Still haven’t recovered from the last couple of chapters…but so looking forward to the next books!
Thanks to #NetGalley and #BlackstonePublishing for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review! I was so happy to receive it on 8/22!!
This was already released, so you can look for it on shelves now!
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me, rounded up to 5!
#TheSpy by #JamesPhelan and narrated nicely by #RobShapiro.
Book #1 in the new series!
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
Insta @ #BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, and click ‘LIKE’ below!! 📚⭐️
April 29, 2019
Is this really a book which would have Reacher looking over his shoulder as Lee Child says in a quote?
Well no not even close, that said this is still a great action adventure tale with a lead character that definitely shows promise. I have the next three books and I will certainly look forward to reading them, I enjoyed this enough that I got through it very quickly and while not in the league of Reacher (or other similar action heroes) Walker is a intriguing character… so why did I not love this?
For most of it I would probably acknowledge that I was really enjoying the book but there were a couple of things that detracted from the overall story and getting really caught up in the world.
First was the very odd exchange over a message board that was so secretively coded that the reply was a longitude/latitude. I guess I didn't really understand the nature of the board because it certainly made it look like it was a board where you posted and got a reply and everyone could see it. This really pulled me out of the story as I tried to make sense of it.
Second was the end. I'll not say anything about it but it made me knock down the rating by a star (which I doesn't really deserve but it annoyed me that much!)
Well no not even close, that said this is still a great action adventure tale with a lead character that definitely shows promise. I have the next three books and I will certainly look forward to reading them, I enjoyed this enough that I got through it very quickly and while not in the league of Reacher (or other similar action heroes) Walker is a intriguing character… so why did I not love this?
For most of it I would probably acknowledge that I was really enjoying the book but there were a couple of things that detracted from the overall story and getting really caught up in the world.
First was the very odd exchange over a message board that was so secretively coded that the reply was a longitude/latitude. I guess I didn't really understand the nature of the board because it certainly made it look like it was a board where you posted and got a reply and everyone could see it. This really pulled me out of the story as I tried to make sense of it.
Second was the end. I'll not say anything about it but it made me knock down the rating by a star (which I doesn't really deserve but it annoyed me that much!)
August 22, 2024
I am going to start off by stating that I listened to the audiobook. Rob Shapiro narrates and does a good job, however I do not like the lengthy pauses at the end of sentences. You can't really speed it up for that. It is a pet peeve.
Now, I mentioned that I listened to the audiobook because I feel that it negatively impacted my feelings about the book. Why? The sheer number of agencies and characters involved. It is so hard to go back and find something in an audiobook, so I was forever getting everyone confused. Had I read a print copy, I could have flipped back. I also would have had the visual name recognition to help me out. But I only listened.
I am not saying the audiobook is a terrible idea- just for the way I process things, it made it very hard to keep things straight. I should have assumed and kept a cheat sheet to refer back to. But I didn't.
Had I read this in print (or created my own reference sheet), I think I would continue the series. But based on my audiobook experience, I do not have plans to move forward at this time. In a few years when I forget enough about the plot to not be terribly bored with a re-read, I may revisit and keep track of people.
I received an audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
Now, I mentioned that I listened to the audiobook because I feel that it negatively impacted my feelings about the book. Why? The sheer number of agencies and characters involved. It is so hard to go back and find something in an audiobook, so I was forever getting everyone confused. Had I read a print copy, I could have flipped back. I also would have had the visual name recognition to help me out. But I only listened.
I am not saying the audiobook is a terrible idea- just for the way I process things, it made it very hard to keep things straight. I should have assumed and kept a cheat sheet to refer back to. But I didn't.
Had I read this in print (or created my own reference sheet), I think I would continue the series. But based on my audiobook experience, I do not have plans to move forward at this time. In a few years when I forget enough about the plot to not be terribly bored with a re-read, I may revisit and keep track of people.
I received an audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2024
The Spy may win the award for having one of the longest prologues ever. But it's a good one, setting the stage for what's to come as agent Jed Walker, tracking a bomb-maker, is betrayed as the man assigned to escort him tries to kill him, and when that doesn't work, the whole place explodes in a drone attack. Faking his own death, Jed becomes a ghost, searching the world to find out who ordered him dead. While Jed remains a fairly static character, as is typical for the genre, he's an interesting one in a Jack Reacher sort of way, and there is plenty of action and espionage to keep the story flowing. This book is not for the faint of heart, though--there is a ton of acronyms and agency jargon that only someone well-versed in spy-speak can easily follow. A couple of the twists near the end felt like twists for the sake of a twist, especially when the book is not so much about the mystery but about Jed fighting for redemption and revenge.
The audiobook is well-narrated by Mulraney Adrian, with the dialogue sounding natural and each character distinct. Thank you to the author, Blackstone, and Netgalley for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The audiobook is well-narrated by Mulraney Adrian, with the dialogue sounding natural and each character distinct. Thank you to the author, Blackstone, and Netgalley for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2024
Having a few of James Phelan's original series and having only read up to Blood Oil and finding it a little bit of a let down. I was really interested to see what this would be like.
I can honestly say, the action, pace and the character of Jed Walker were well written. James Phelan continues his fine form of putting together a quality action thriller. The story was good till the final act. The antogonist becomes a right wing nut trying to save America. Phelan has once again dropped the ball with the story. I thought that it might have only been Blood Oil. But it became cliche and boring, the twist in the end felt been there done that. Had this book not been 10 years old, I wouldn't have finished it. Like I said the boogeyman of conservative political spectrum of the "Capitalist Patriot" rears its ugly head.
Overall I would score this a 3.5, it wasn't bad. Loved the Pacing and Action and I liked Jed Walker as the Protagonist. The story while it started out well, fell off for me near the end. I will continue the series at some point as I would like to see where it goes.
I can honestly say, the action, pace and the character of Jed Walker were well written. James Phelan continues his fine form of putting together a quality action thriller. The story was good till the final act. The antogonist becomes a right wing nut trying to save America. Phelan has once again dropped the ball with the story. I thought that it might have only been Blood Oil. But it became cliche and boring, the twist in the end felt been there done that. Had this book not been 10 years old, I wouldn't have finished it. Like I said the boogeyman of conservative political spectrum of the "Capitalist Patriot" rears its ugly head.
Overall I would score this a 3.5, it wasn't bad. Loved the Pacing and Action and I liked Jed Walker as the Protagonist. The story while it started out well, fell off for me near the end. I will continue the series at some point as I would like to see where it goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2021
The blurb is slightly different from the actual book's premise which is even more generic: Super Spy, Jed Walker has been set up by someone in his own government and now has to find out who betrayed him.
Jed Walker has no personality and resolves every situation through luck or brute force. The novel ends with the big reveal that the villian has the same motivations as that of the bad guys of twenty other novels you've already read and the most inconsequential double cross of all time.
The action scenes are kind of fun due to how over the top and silly they are. They don't really work in the context of the novel because of the massive tonal shifts they present. It could have worked as a schlocky homage to thriller novel tropes if the dialogue had been funnier instead of just cringe inducing.
The prose is solid and the research is good enough.
Solid and workman-like but completely pointless.
Jed Walker has no personality and resolves every situation through luck or brute force. The novel ends with the big reveal that the villian has the same motivations as that of the bad guys of twenty other novels you've already read and the most inconsequential double cross of all time.
The action scenes are kind of fun due to how over the top and silly they are. They don't really work in the context of the novel because of the massive tonal shifts they present. It could have worked as a schlocky homage to thriller novel tropes if the dialogue had been funnier instead of just cringe inducing.
The prose is solid and the research is good enough.
Solid and workman-like but completely pointless.
June 18, 2023
Very good
For the first book in a series, this a very good start
By the end of it, you don't really know. A lot about the characters as individuals, but do start to get an understanding of their motivation. For Jed is a bit more indepth, but the whe book very much focuses on the conspiracy and the investigation of it
Quite a few twists and turns a long the way and a couple of true surprises(for me at least) towards the end, didn't see of them coming
Book ends very abruptly. Too much so. So much so, that I bought book 2 and read the first chapter immediately. I do dislike this approach that authors/publishers appear to be taking. In reality the first 2 chapters of book 2, should be the end of book 1, but I guess it makes you get the next in the series and it worked on me
For the first book in a series, this a very good start
By the end of it, you don't really know. A lot about the characters as individuals, but do start to get an understanding of their motivation. For Jed is a bit more indepth, but the whe book very much focuses on the conspiracy and the investigation of it
Quite a few twists and turns a long the way and a couple of true surprises(for me at least) towards the end, didn't see of them coming
Book ends very abruptly. Too much so. So much so, that I bought book 2 and read the first chapter immediately. I do dislike this approach that authors/publishers appear to be taking. In reality the first 2 chapters of book 2, should be the end of book 1, but I guess it makes you get the next in the series and it worked on me
October 2, 2025
More of a 2.5 for me but rounded up cause I like spy stories.
Jed Walker, is in Yemen watching a drop between a financier and a terrorist bomb maker. Before he can get decent intel, the site is bombed by a drone, his partner draws down on him and a second bomb is sent in. He's now a "ghost" (KIA) following the money to find out the meaning of a few words whispered to him by the financier before dying. It takes him to Greece, Rome & Bari, Italy, Dubrovnik, and back to the states- all trying to follow the money one lead at a time to find out who or what Zodiac is.
It's a bit long, details few and Jed determined to put an end to Zodiac before the deadline.
Jed Walker, is in Yemen watching a drop between a financier and a terrorist bomb maker. Before he can get decent intel, the site is bombed by a drone, his partner draws down on him and a second bomb is sent in. He's now a "ghost" (KIA) following the money to find out the meaning of a few words whispered to him by the financier before dying. It takes him to Greece, Rome & Bari, Italy, Dubrovnik, and back to the states- all trying to follow the money one lead at a time to find out who or what Zodiac is.
It's a bit long, details few and Jed determined to put an end to Zodiac before the deadline.
Read
September 4, 2025Oh this is a really good story the type that leaves you wanting more.. Excellent
Before I leave my tuppence worth in make sure you have book two THE HUNTED ready to go. Jed Walker's a dead man, a ghost until he's not and that leaves him with a massive target on his back and his enemies will do everything they possibly can to stop him. But Walker like his father before him is a CIA legend so stopping him will not be easy. This is an outstanding espionage action thriller with a heart pounding ending you'll either love or hate. I loved it!
Before I leave my tuppence worth in make sure you have book two THE HUNTED ready to go. Jed Walker's a dead man, a ghost until he's not and that leaves him with a massive target on his back and his enemies will do everything they possibly can to stop him. But Walker like his father before him is a CIA legend so stopping him will not be easy. This is an outstanding espionage action thriller with a heart pounding ending you'll either love or hate. I loved it!
August 3, 2017
a gripping series, well written and engaging for me , I have read them back to back and left with a smile knowing I would enjoy reading them again soon !
I enjoyed the similarity to "jack reacher" and imagine a match between those 2 would be explosive stuff. I think these books would make a great movie series too, but not some tiny chap playing the lead role ..please.
I enjoyed this immensely, great entertainment value.
I enjoyed the similarity to "jack reacher" and imagine a match between those 2 would be explosive stuff. I think these books would make a great movie series too, but not some tiny chap playing the lead role ..please.
I enjoyed this immensely, great entertainment value.
March 14, 2023
I read this as it was pegged along the Lee Child Jack Reacher line. It was not. I found it a cold clinical story that had a lot of twists that weren’t required, you don’t get to know the ML enough to actually care about him even though he is the main story of the book. One of the main parts of the book was that everyone thought he was dead, so how is it going to play out in the sequels? Not going to read the next one.
February 16, 2018
Great audio book presentation. Went to a session at The Brisbane Writers Festival and he impressed but his fiction is better than I expected. Long arcs have started so looking forward to his next. If you enjoy Lee Child you will like The Spy. Lots of bad guy retribution and of course much American corruption- hmm maybe he preempted the future? Enjoy!
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