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Nightcrawler #1
Nightcrawler
Nightcrawler is about the exploits of Sabrina Brooks, the heiress to the Brooks Chemical Company. Bree is trying to pick up the pieces after her father's death, and is now in a position to live up to a personal commitment to use her resources to benefit the oppressed. She is intrigued by the notion of conducting a guerrilla campaign against drug gangs in New York City, and accesses top-secret archives detailing Government contracts for developmental research of chemical weapons. She uses her wizardry in chemistry to concoct weapons for her own use as a vigilante known as the Nightcrawler. NYPD undercover officer Hoyt Wexford becomes friends with Bree, and begins to suspect she knows the identity of the Nightcrawler. Her sudden interest in a series of terrorist attacks in the New York area makes him believe she may be investigating a group called the Octagon. He tries to follow her but is too late to prevent a showdown between the Nightcrawler and the mysterious Reaper. Hoyt rescues Bree and learns her secret identity, and together they plan to stop the Octagon once and for all in preventing a chemical attack in NYC on the Fourth of July. This is a pulse-pounding thriller straight out of world headlines, with an unforgettable heroine fighting impossible odds against fiendish arch-criminals. For suspense fans looking for some chick lit with international intrigue, Nightcrawler is one not to be forgotten.
- GenresAction
128 pages, Paperback
First published January 9, 2014
118 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
John Reinhard Dizon
84 books62 followersJohn Reinhard Dizon was born and raised in the Cobble Hill section of Brooklyn, NY. He participated in local and high school sports at Bishop Loughlin MHS, excelling in wrestling, hockey and football. The lead vocalist of the Spoiler and the Ducky Boys, he was a key figure on the Brooklyn rock scene during the Punk Revolution of the 70's. Relocating to San Antonio TX in the 80's, he moonlighted as a pro wrestler while working as a legal assistant. He successfully pursued a BA at UTSA and degrees in Korean martial arts during the 90's. He currently lives in KC MO where he is studying for his MA in English at UMKC. Mr. Dizon has been studying and writing about Irish history for over twenty-five years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 23, 2019
It took me a while to get into Redemption because there were so many character introductions in the first two chapters, but I’m pleased I persevered because it was well worth reading!
Sabrina Brooks (also known as Bree) is the protagonist in this well constructed novel. As the Nightcrawler, a vigilante, she attempts, single-handedly, to rid New York City of its vast criminal underground, particularly drug dealers. Ken Stevenson (AKA the “Black Panther”) has been jumped from prison by the “Thinker”, and together with Aleister Piedmont, they take on the underground of NYC. Al Piedmont is a Mafia Don in NYC, dealing in narcotics, gambling, and prostitution, among others. They are a ruthless team, and will stop at nothing to get what they want, i.e. control of the underworld of NYC.
The question is, does Sabrina succeed in her quest? Well, if you want the answer you’ll have to read the book.
Bree, being beautiful, rich and famous, is capable of procuring the necessary chemicals to achieve her goal since she owns the Brooks Chemical Company (BCC). She is involved with the police mainly because she’s engaged to a member of the NYPD, Hoyt Wexford. But that’s not all, she also becomes involved with the FBI…
Once I’d got into the story, I found I couldn’t stop reading, and would recommend this novel to all who enjoy some really good crime fighting, albeit somewhat gory in places.
E.D. Bird
www.edbirdbooks.com
Sabrina Brooks (also known as Bree) is the protagonist in this well constructed novel. As the Nightcrawler, a vigilante, she attempts, single-handedly, to rid New York City of its vast criminal underground, particularly drug dealers. Ken Stevenson (AKA the “Black Panther”) has been jumped from prison by the “Thinker”, and together with Aleister Piedmont, they take on the underground of NYC. Al Piedmont is a Mafia Don in NYC, dealing in narcotics, gambling, and prostitution, among others. They are a ruthless team, and will stop at nothing to get what they want, i.e. control of the underworld of NYC.
The question is, does Sabrina succeed in her quest? Well, if you want the answer you’ll have to read the book.
Bree, being beautiful, rich and famous, is capable of procuring the necessary chemicals to achieve her goal since she owns the Brooks Chemical Company (BCC). She is involved with the police mainly because she’s engaged to a member of the NYPD, Hoyt Wexford. But that’s not all, she also becomes involved with the FBI…
Once I’d got into the story, I found I couldn’t stop reading, and would recommend this novel to all who enjoy some really good crime fighting, albeit somewhat gory in places.
E.D. Bird
www.edbirdbooks.com
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April 14, 2021Sabrina Brooks has the key components for a secret life as a vigilante at her disposal: a fortune inherited upon her father’s death, stewardship of his chemical company and a desire to serve and protect. In fact, had her father not passed away, she might have pursued a career in law enforcement. As matters stand, she wants to be more than figurehead at the Brooks Chemical Company, so she takes her academy training and martial skills and takes on the mantle of ‘Nightcrawler’.
In short, to satisfy dual passions, Bree tries to do it all, but what starts as a bit of a lark turns into a greater responsibility than she can handle. Bree is overwhelmed, but determined to succeed. When her partner at Brooks warns against the vigilantism, the danger to herself and the company’s reputation, she tries to give it up. But it’s not easy, particularly not when people she cares about are in danger.
John Reinhard Dizon lays out an ambitious story arc that touches on small, community issues, and the larger scope of how terrorism can affect a city. At 131 pages, however, the book lacks the depth required to really have the punch I expected. I liked Sabrina and I sympathised with her compassion and her struggle to be more. But I missed some key scenes. For instance, fleshing out the scene at the Statue of Liberty would have padded the page count as well as shown Sabrina in action. As a reader, I wanted to experience her excitement and tension and be party to her thoughts as she worked. Her thoughts as she risked life and limb and her reaction to seeing the terrorists face to face.
Not showing these scenes perhaps allowed Dizon to keep a lid on the romantic tension, but… I’d kinda have like to have seen that as well. What went through Sabrina’s mind when Hoyt showed up on the scene?
There is some discussion about whether what Bree is doing is right or wrong and about the danger of using untested chemical weapons in the field. Though a character ultimately drives a novel, I was glad to see this was included as it shows some conscience on the part of the author.
Quibbles aside, Nightcrawler is a great concept with a well-conceived plot. Dizon obviously enjoys writing thrillers, and it shows. He’s got all the key elements here, and they’re surrounded by sympathetic characters and a conclusion that satisfies.
In short, to satisfy dual passions, Bree tries to do it all, but what starts as a bit of a lark turns into a greater responsibility than she can handle. Bree is overwhelmed, but determined to succeed. When her partner at Brooks warns against the vigilantism, the danger to herself and the company’s reputation, she tries to give it up. But it’s not easy, particularly not when people she cares about are in danger.
John Reinhard Dizon lays out an ambitious story arc that touches on small, community issues, and the larger scope of how terrorism can affect a city. At 131 pages, however, the book lacks the depth required to really have the punch I expected. I liked Sabrina and I sympathised with her compassion and her struggle to be more. But I missed some key scenes. For instance, fleshing out the scene at the Statue of Liberty would have padded the page count as well as shown Sabrina in action. As a reader, I wanted to experience her excitement and tension and be party to her thoughts as she worked. Her thoughts as she risked life and limb and her reaction to seeing the terrorists face to face.
Not showing these scenes perhaps allowed Dizon to keep a lid on the romantic tension, but… I’d kinda have like to have seen that as well. What went through Sabrina’s mind when Hoyt showed up on the scene?
There is some discussion about whether what Bree is doing is right or wrong and about the danger of using untested chemical weapons in the field. Though a character ultimately drives a novel, I was glad to see this was included as it shows some conscience on the part of the author.
Quibbles aside, Nightcrawler is a great concept with a well-conceived plot. Dizon obviously enjoys writing thrillers, and it shows. He’s got all the key elements here, and they’re surrounded by sympathetic characters and a conclusion that satisfies.
August 11, 2014
This is a fast-paced, page-turning story of a modern day super hero. Except in this case the super hero is a woman, Sabrina (Bree) Brooks. A rich girl with a conscience, Bree conducts a vigilante war against drug gangs in New York, in the disguise of the Nightcrawler. Bree reminds me of the Laura Croft character in the movies. The book has suspense and mystery, with non-stop action. I have read other books by this author, and this is his best one yet.
March 19, 2022
By day a successful CEO of a huge chemical company complex, by night an antagonist of a group trying to blackmail New York City and the nation. She inherited the business when her father died. The danger threatened by the blackmailer causes her to disguise herself so that no one can tell if she male or female. They assume male because of her martial art skills although she is injured in the encounter, the injuries are slight. She has gleaned enough to realize two or three of the terrorist belong to the LGBTQ category and they have dropped enough hints that somehow they know about her company’s secrets. She contacts two of the men she knows are part of that community although they have kept their status more or less secret. She keeps probing while trying to appease her father’s best friend and confident threatening to quit unless she gives up being the Nightcrawler. For some reason the authorities have decided she is connected to the blackmailers. The man she loves is a police officer coming up in the ranks and her church community is trying to help unwed mothers adopt out their children. She manages to thwart the next attempt, but becomes injured. Worse the Reaper, head of the group threatening NYC realizes who she is. The explosion at her mansion causes a sensation when they cannot find her body. Has she survived once again? Will she be able to save all those people in NYC or will the Reaper win? Fast paced and gritty.
June 15, 2018
Terrific, action-packed read
Having read this author's work before I expected and received a thoroughly excellent, entertaining read in Nightcrawler. When heiress Sabrina Brooks inherits her father's company on his death, she throws herself into her new role with an enthusiasm that surprises those who know her as a party girl, with little ambition or direction to her life. How wrong could they be? When events transpire that affect those she is close to through her voluntary work with a local church, Sabrina becomes New York's new vigilante crime fighter, the Nightcrawler. Her training in self-defence stands her in good stead as she goes head to head with a mystery gang of home-grown terrorists known only as The Octagon. One my one Sabrina identifies and takes out the members of the gang, but as she draws closer to the evil head of the group, a Serbian wanted for war crimes in his homeland, things appear to be getting out of hand when she is believed dead after a bomb attack on her home. Her friend and soon to be lover, Hoyt, a police officer and one of the few who know her secret identity, collude in a plan to bring the Octagon down for good as they attempt to perpetrate their next atrocity. This is one of the author's best yet, as the action seems to leap from every and is unrelentingly intense and nail biting at times. Just when it needed it, New York has a new hero in the guise of the Nightcrawler. An excellent read, highly recommended.
Having read this author's work before I expected and received a thoroughly excellent, entertaining read in Nightcrawler. When heiress Sabrina Brooks inherits her father's company on his death, she throws herself into her new role with an enthusiasm that surprises those who know her as a party girl, with little ambition or direction to her life. How wrong could they be? When events transpire that affect those she is close to through her voluntary work with a local church, Sabrina becomes New York's new vigilante crime fighter, the Nightcrawler. Her training in self-defence stands her in good stead as she goes head to head with a mystery gang of home-grown terrorists known only as The Octagon. One my one Sabrina identifies and takes out the members of the gang, but as she draws closer to the evil head of the group, a Serbian wanted for war crimes in his homeland, things appear to be getting out of hand when she is believed dead after a bomb attack on her home. Her friend and soon to be lover, Hoyt, a police officer and one of the few who know her secret identity, collude in a plan to bring the Octagon down for good as they attempt to perpetrate their next atrocity. This is one of the author's best yet, as the action seems to leap from every and is unrelentingly intense and nail biting at times. Just when it needed it, New York has a new hero in the guise of the Nightcrawler. An excellent read, highly recommended.
May 4, 2014
Nightcrawler by John Reinhard Dizon centers on Sabrina “Bree” Brooks, a young woman faced with growing up by taking on the responsibility of taking over the family business, Brooks Chemical Company, after the death of her father. Her taking on the company business was thought to be a given, though it wasn't exactly what she had wanted, but she set out to earn her degree in Chemistry because it was expected of her. However, the death of her mother sent her reeling in another direction just 2 years into her schooling at NYU. She switched colleges, and professions, opting for a degree in Criminal Justice, instead.
Upon the death of her father, she realized the importance of keeping his dream alive. She owed that to him, but the chemicals the company is capable of producing also begins to play a big part in something else that ends up taking center stage in her life: becoming the Nightcrawler. With her strong sense of law and justice, the desire to have her own private investigation firm, and a need to protect the innocence, she finds an very opportune way to aid herself as she deals out her own justice to those that come against the weak and helpless.
But will it be enough when she decides to take on a terror threat to New York from an international group backed by Al Qaeda? She'll need 9 lives to stay ahead of these guys. Let's hope she's keeping track.
I enjoyed Nightcrawler by John Reinhard Dizon and give it 5 Stars. This story is quite eclectic, but unlike other books with such elements, I never felt lost in a dizzying array of characters and sub-plots. Strong character building brings this story depth, and strong storytelling brings to life the situations that these characters must go through. I appreciated the fact that the story didn't get hijacked by too much romance between Bree and Hoyt, what the author did show of it was just right. Some of the fight scenes were spoken about after the fact rather than shown in detail. I didn't mind this, even though it made me do a double take at first, but it worked for me. I didn't feel the fight scenes were a pivotal part of the true message of the story anyway, it goes deeper than that. In a perfectly fluid motion, the author led me through this story with no bumps in the road. This story is well written, and I appreciated the lack of grammatical and punctuation errors.
Upon the death of her father, she realized the importance of keeping his dream alive. She owed that to him, but the chemicals the company is capable of producing also begins to play a big part in something else that ends up taking center stage in her life: becoming the Nightcrawler. With her strong sense of law and justice, the desire to have her own private investigation firm, and a need to protect the innocence, she finds an very opportune way to aid herself as she deals out her own justice to those that come against the weak and helpless.
But will it be enough when she decides to take on a terror threat to New York from an international group backed by Al Qaeda? She'll need 9 lives to stay ahead of these guys. Let's hope she's keeping track.
I enjoyed Nightcrawler by John Reinhard Dizon and give it 5 Stars. This story is quite eclectic, but unlike other books with such elements, I never felt lost in a dizzying array of characters and sub-plots. Strong character building brings this story depth, and strong storytelling brings to life the situations that these characters must go through. I appreciated the fact that the story didn't get hijacked by too much romance between Bree and Hoyt, what the author did show of it was just right. Some of the fight scenes were spoken about after the fact rather than shown in detail. I didn't mind this, even though it made me do a double take at first, but it worked for me. I didn't feel the fight scenes were a pivotal part of the true message of the story anyway, it goes deeper than that. In a perfectly fluid motion, the author led me through this story with no bumps in the road. This story is well written, and I appreciated the lack of grammatical and punctuation errors.
January 23, 2014
By Judith Kirscht, Author
After a wild girlhood, Sabrina Brooks has committed herself to the Bowery pastor who turned her life around and to serve the oppressed. At the same time, she finds herself, at the death of her father, heiress to his chemical company, a company with contracts to produce chemical weapons. The third piece of this exceptional triangle, her talent as a chemist (developed at her father’s knee), combine to create the Nightcrawler—a lone vigilante battling the drug lords of New York.
Confiding in no one, she catches gangsters in the act, using her modified chemical weapons to disable them, a campaign complicated only by her increasing love for John Hoyt of the NYPD—which has begun a manhunt for the Nightcrawler. As Sabrina penetrates close and closer to the center of the drug ring called Octagon, her nocturnal adventures become more and more dangerous, leaving her with injuries hard to conceal. Hoyt begins to suspect she has something to do with the Nightcrawler, who he, and everyone else, assumes is a man.
Sabrina fights her way through a web of intrigue, sabotage, and extortion that entangles her chemical company itself as well as New York’s oppressed and vulnerable, and uncovers a plot that brings her face to face with king of Octagon—The Reaper.
Dizon keep the reader at the edge of disaster. His story shows a gifted imagination, and his knowledge of the chemistry involved gives authenticity. This is a true thriller as a bold and gifted woman takes on the role of mysterious super heroine and takes on the giants of the criminal world.
August 19, 2014
I received this book from John and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The book follows Sabrina, a bit of a mixed up girl who finds her calling as a chemical wielding vigilante after her father passes away and she inherits his chemical research plant. While pursuing her own identity and struggling with trying to fill her fathers shoes she sets out into the night as Nightcrawler taking on gangs, thugs and terrorists alike. A very good read with well defined characters and an underlying sense of morality. I recommend it highly.
April 23, 2020
Nightcrawler
With that title I had passed over this book several times. But as the saying goes, "never judge at book by its cover"" . This is a exciting, tense filled story,with pearls of wisdom. The story is about a strong young lady, in body, and growing in God's Spirit. She is compassionate and living faith. The criminals have never experienced the likes, neither have I. Cannot wait to read the next story. Best of all this book is a short story, but you will feel like you read a full course meal.
With that title I had passed over this book several times. But as the saying goes, "never judge at book by its cover"" . This is a exciting, tense filled story,with pearls of wisdom. The story is about a strong young lady, in body, and growing in God's Spirit. She is compassionate and living faith. The criminals have never experienced the likes, neither have I. Cannot wait to read the next story. Best of all this book is a short story, but you will feel like you read a full course meal.
November 2, 2018
Night crawler
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I cannot wait to read the second one in the Nightcrawler series. I want to know if the bad guys get wiped out. This book certainly keeps you on your toes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I cannot wait to read the second one in the Nightcrawler series. I want to know if the bad guys get wiped out. This book certainly keeps you on your toes.
April 25, 2020
Good mystery
This book kept you on your toes until the end. The main character was a little unbelievable for a woman. Wished that the ending would have given you a hint where the romantic connections between the main characters were going. Maybe in the next book.
This book kept you on your toes until the end. The main character was a little unbelievable for a woman. Wished that the ending would have given you a hint where the romantic connections between the main characters were going. Maybe in the next book.
November 25, 2018
This was an okay book. I liked the story I just wished there was more to it. Bree was too perfect it would of been more believable if she would of failed somewhere.
March 25, 2017
very good
August 12, 2021
Sort of a modern day hero tale; rich girl (naturally) that has a conscience.
February 27, 2014
Warning: Spoilers
First to start off lets talk about the story line. It's your usual heroine action pack plot line and it intrigued me at first. It could have gone either way, being good or bad, but sadly now that I have finished the book I must declare that I did not like this book. The story was good but it was so short. Being only 130 some pages long I did not have time to connect with the characters on an emotional level at all and the pace of the story line was too fast. So much happen in only a few pages, I couldn't keep up. Also with everything happening so fast, some of the events that happen in the book were unbelievable. Everything worked out a little too well for Bree that I just couldn't believe in it. No hero is that lucky.
Not to mention the fact that she's Nightcrawler, a CEO of a chemical company and she helps out at her local church. She just did a little bit of everything which made her seem perfect. She could fight, she was smart and she has her love interest, especially since she's so beautiful. Maybe it's because I couldn't connect with her that I just did not care for her as a character. John Dizon, the author, may of made her perfect like that so she, Bree, can be an inspiration but I just couldn't buy into it.
What else the action scenes were so and so. Actually sometimes there wasn't even an action scene at all. As you're reading through the book Bree is about to go after the bad guys and in the next paragraph she's watching the news on what happen or getting told about the event by a buddy. You didn't even get to see her really fight. You get told on what happen to fill in the dots. But thankfully this was only for a few scenes.
Even though I'm ranting a little bit on what I didn't like about this book I will say that the beginning was enjoyable. I liked how the author just went right in it, and as you are reading, the pieces on who our character is fills in quite nicely.
I guess my last few issues with the book would be some grammar mistakes. Lately it seems that I have been finding quite a few mistakes in the last few books that I have read whether it's a grammar or spelling mistake. Now I'm not apart of the grammar police, actually my "grammar" can be quite bad but the fact that someone like myself can find a mistake is bad. I mean I had A's throughout high school but I almost failed my grammar class, that is how bad I am.
Last but not least let me get back to Bree for a little bit. Remember reading that she was the CEO of her company. Well because she was the CEO, she had a tight schedule and when she was following her leads, whether they were for Nightcrawler or Bree the CEO, you read quite a bit of her making appointments and meetings. Well to get what I am trying to say, it's like seeing only a little bit of Batman action scenes and a whole lot of Wayne business meetings and appointments. Now her "appointments" where important for the story line but frankly I didn't care to read about them.
I believe that is all everyone. I am so sorry for this review being so big but I wanted to give my honest opinion and if you have read this till the end I must thank you for reading this and sticking with me. I hope everyone is well and that spring will be here soon.
First to start off lets talk about the story line. It's your usual heroine action pack plot line and it intrigued me at first. It could have gone either way, being good or bad, but sadly now that I have finished the book I must declare that I did not like this book. The story was good but it was so short. Being only 130 some pages long I did not have time to connect with the characters on an emotional level at all and the pace of the story line was too fast. So much happen in only a few pages, I couldn't keep up. Also with everything happening so fast, some of the events that happen in the book were unbelievable. Everything worked out a little too well for Bree that I just couldn't believe in it. No hero is that lucky.
Not to mention the fact that she's Nightcrawler, a CEO of a chemical company and she helps out at her local church. She just did a little bit of everything which made her seem perfect. She could fight, she was smart and she has her love interest, especially since she's so beautiful. Maybe it's because I couldn't connect with her that I just did not care for her as a character. John Dizon, the author, may of made her perfect like that so she, Bree, can be an inspiration but I just couldn't buy into it.
What else the action scenes were so and so. Actually sometimes there wasn't even an action scene at all. As you're reading through the book Bree is about to go after the bad guys and in the next paragraph she's watching the news on what happen or getting told about the event by a buddy. You didn't even get to see her really fight. You get told on what happen to fill in the dots. But thankfully this was only for a few scenes.
Even though I'm ranting a little bit on what I didn't like about this book I will say that the beginning was enjoyable. I liked how the author just went right in it, and as you are reading, the pieces on who our character is fills in quite nicely.
I guess my last few issues with the book would be some grammar mistakes. Lately it seems that I have been finding quite a few mistakes in the last few books that I have read whether it's a grammar or spelling mistake. Now I'm not apart of the grammar police, actually my "grammar" can be quite bad but the fact that someone like myself can find a mistake is bad. I mean I had A's throughout high school but I almost failed my grammar class, that is how bad I am.
Last but not least let me get back to Bree for a little bit. Remember reading that she was the CEO of her company. Well because she was the CEO, she had a tight schedule and when she was following her leads, whether they were for Nightcrawler or Bree the CEO, you read quite a bit of her making appointments and meetings. Well to get what I am trying to say, it's like seeing only a little bit of Batman action scenes and a whole lot of Wayne business meetings and appointments. Now her "appointments" where important for the story line but frankly I didn't care to read about them.
I believe that is all everyone. I am so sorry for this review being so big but I wanted to give my honest opinion and if you have read this till the end I must thank you for reading this and sticking with me. I hope everyone is well and that spring will be here soon.
May 12, 2014
I liked the idea of this book; a kick ass female super hero. Sabrina is rich and her father recently passed away, leaving her to decide if she should run his chemical company or walk away from it. She always liked the idea of law enforcement and she decides to use what she has available in the company to take down the bad guys, even if it is illegal. She throws on a suit as a disguise and calls herself the Nightcrawler. Throw in a little romance with a police officer trying to find out who the Nightcrawler is, and you have yourself a good story.
Nightcrawler was a pretty good read. I had a few problems with it though. The flow of the book felt a little choppy. Although I can’t quite put my finger on why, that’s just how it felt to me. Also, former terrorist attacks on the US were mentioned; 9/11 and the Boston Massacre. Now, it took me a few mentioning’s of the Boston Massacre to realize that the author was actually talking about the marathon bombings that happened last year. At first I thought he was talking about the actual Boston Massacre that happened in 1770, and didn’t quite understand the relevance. I can understand his confusion though, because after the marathon bombings the news called it that (Boston Massacre) a few times (I know, I’m from Boston.)
Overall though, it was a good story. Maybe if someone could do a re-edit and fix the wording (change massacre to marathon bombing) and help the story flow a little smoother, then it wouldn’t be good; it would be awesome.
My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
~Pam
*****I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.*****
Nightcrawler was a pretty good read. I had a few problems with it though. The flow of the book felt a little choppy. Although I can’t quite put my finger on why, that’s just how it felt to me. Also, former terrorist attacks on the US were mentioned; 9/11 and the Boston Massacre. Now, it took me a few mentioning’s of the Boston Massacre to realize that the author was actually talking about the marathon bombings that happened last year. At first I thought he was talking about the actual Boston Massacre that happened in 1770, and didn’t quite understand the relevance. I can understand his confusion though, because after the marathon bombings the news called it that (Boston Massacre) a few times (I know, I’m from Boston.)
Overall though, it was a good story. Maybe if someone could do a re-edit and fix the wording (change massacre to marathon bombing) and help the story flow a little smoother, then it wouldn’t be good; it would be awesome.
My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
~Pam
*****I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.*****
January 28, 2014
Nightcrawler by John R. Dizon is an exciting novel filled to the brim with action and intense fight scenes. Unlikely heroine Sabrina Brooks, alter ego the Nightcrawler, Complete with ninja outfit and balaclava, takes to ridding the streets of evil using gas that stops the bad guys in their tracks without killing them.Sabrina Brooks is the attractive and young heiress of Brooks Chemical Company. She first began college seeking a chemistry degree in order to follow in her father’s footsteps but changed schools and directions when he mother passed, seeking a career in law enforcement,that went awry when skipping classes and partying became more important than her studies. Finally, getting her head straight she decides to run the company. A terrorist organization calling themselves The Octagon, it's leader the Reaper, attempts to poison The Big Apple time and time again with
dangerous chemicals only to be continually foiled by the Nightcrawler. This novel is a unique piece of work with a superhero woman who can't bring herself to killing.
Like John R. Dizon's other novels the plot carries many twists and turns, the characters are rich in personality, and high in quality. Having now read four of John R. Dizon's novels he uses the right amount of description vs. plot and character formation to produce a novel that is difficult for the reader to put down, every suspenseful detail leads to the climax which he presents with a bang. His knowledge of New York gives an authentic touch making the story thoroughly believable.
Definitely a must read!
dangerous chemicals only to be continually foiled by the Nightcrawler. This novel is a unique piece of work with a superhero woman who can't bring herself to killing.
Like John R. Dizon's other novels the plot carries many twists and turns, the characters are rich in personality, and high in quality. Having now read four of John R. Dizon's novels he uses the right amount of description vs. plot and character formation to produce a novel that is difficult for the reader to put down, every suspenseful detail leads to the climax which he presents with a bang. His knowledge of New York gives an authentic touch making the story thoroughly believable.
Definitely a must read!
January 21, 2016
After a busy year, I finally found time to read Nightcrawler by John Dizon. I've been a fan of Tiara (another novel of his) for quite sometime, so I was excited to read his latest. On many levels, Nightcrawler delivers. The main character, Sabrina Brooks, is a likable, strong female lead. As soon as her father dies, she's forced to leave her partying life behind and thrust into the world of business. Yet she misses her past, specifically her time as a criminal investigation student. Eventually she finds she can have it all--run a major chemical corporation, fight crime and get the handsome guy. On the way there she uncovers a terrorist plot to destroy NYC, perfidy within her own company, gets thrown from buildings and falls into the Hudson River, and makes true friends within her church community.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and overall I liked this book, mostly because Sabrina and her father's partner, Jon, are incredibly wonderful characters. However, I found the LGBT and Christian conflict to be a bit preachy at times and not something I'd expect in a crime story. Those who are a part of the LGBT community might not enjoy this story as much as some of the others by this writer. Dizon is a prolific writer and I love his dialogue as well as tough-guy characters so I can't wait to read another one of his. Fortunately, I have many to choose from!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and overall I liked this book, mostly because Sabrina and her father's partner, Jon, are incredibly wonderful characters. However, I found the LGBT and Christian conflict to be a bit preachy at times and not something I'd expect in a crime story. Those who are a part of the LGBT community might not enjoy this story as much as some of the others by this writer. Dizon is a prolific writer and I love his dialogue as well as tough-guy characters so I can't wait to read another one of his. Fortunately, I have many to choose from!
January 21, 2014
Before anything I want to thank John Reinhard Dizon for giving me an ARC of Nightcrawler!!
I highly appreciated it!
To begin my review I want to first say that I found the story line to be a bit slow. I was waiting for that moment in the book where I would be in the edge of my seat, but I didn't feel it. While reading I didn't feel like Sabrina faced any moments where things were severely at stake. In my opinion I thought the things she dealt with were minor happenings. Nothing that put Sabrina in true fear for her life, but with that being said it proved that she was a strong female lead. She wasn't weak and wasn't going to back down regardless of who told her what. She was going to fight until she won. Aside from that, I enjoyed the connection between her and Hoyt. I loved how with knowing the truth of Sabrina he didn't run away from her. Instead he stood by her side and helped her. They were absolutely adorable together and I'm glad they got their HEA!!!
In conclusion, this genre is all new to me. Everything I said in this review is solely my opinion and other readers might have a different view. That is why I still recommend this to others!
I highly appreciated it!
To begin my review I want to first say that I found the story line to be a bit slow. I was waiting for that moment in the book where I would be in the edge of my seat, but I didn't feel it. While reading I didn't feel like Sabrina faced any moments where things were severely at stake. In my opinion I thought the things she dealt with were minor happenings. Nothing that put Sabrina in true fear for her life, but with that being said it proved that she was a strong female lead. She wasn't weak and wasn't going to back down regardless of who told her what. She was going to fight until she won. Aside from that, I enjoyed the connection between her and Hoyt. I loved how with knowing the truth of Sabrina he didn't run away from her. Instead he stood by her side and helped her. They were absolutely adorable together and I'm glad they got their HEA!!!
In conclusion, this genre is all new to me. Everything I said in this review is solely my opinion and other readers might have a different view. That is why I still recommend this to others!
August 4, 2014
Sabrina Brooks, the heiress to the large company of her father, is a beautiful headstrong girl, not spoiled by the easy life she was allowed to lead prior to her parents death. When the chemical empire of her father falls into her hands, forces her to leave the silly college kid life she was leading, she didn't panic. Instead, she took the matters into her hands with a firmness that impressed even her father's partner, Jon Aeppli, who was playing with the idea of leaving. Together they began working on making sure the firm didn't falter, and its clients did not take their business elsewhere, but then the large terrorist organization enters the scene, bringing out another side of Sabrina she did not suspect herself having - a ninja vigilante armed with a vast training in martial arts, a bit of chemistry and the desire to protect her countryfolk.
This story is highly enjoyable, full of action, fast-paced, never slacking. Many political and social issues are brought up and addressed, led to a satisfying conclusion. The characters are vivid, full of life. Sabrina, Jon, Ryan and others from Brook Company, Hoyt, her developing love interest and a successful young policeman, as much as the terrorists of Octagon, they all come across as people, fascinating and alive. I had a great time reading this novel.
This story is highly enjoyable, full of action, fast-paced, never slacking. Many political and social issues are brought up and addressed, led to a satisfying conclusion. The characters are vivid, full of life. Sabrina, Jon, Ryan and others from Brook Company, Hoyt, her developing love interest and a successful young policeman, as much as the terrorists of Octagon, they all come across as people, fascinating and alive. I had a great time reading this novel.
September 18, 2014
When I first heard about Nightcrawler, the novel, I immediately thought about the Marvel comics and remembered that I’d liked those.
The cover grabbed me, I snuck a peak at the ‘Look inside,’ loved the beginning and download my copy. After recently finishing the hit show ‘Breaking Bad’ it was awesome to have a read of a female vigilante with a degree in chemistry.
Sabrina Brooks lost her mum four years ago, recently her father and now is the heiress to the Brooks Chemical business. By day she wears a sleek suit and runs the business as its CEO, but by night she goes Ninja, using chemicals as weapons. Fighting bad guys on the streets and defending neighbourhoods against gangs, she calls herself ‘The Nightcrawler.’
Starting at confession, Sabrina is speaking to her Priest and the action just flows on from there.
Nightcrawler has excellent plot-lines and elements of old style crime fighters such as The Shadow. What starts as her own vigilante campaign against New York drug gangs evolves into an all-out battle with an evil terrorist group known as The Octogon.
Without giving anything away, I will say that the author does an amazing job of pulling you in and keeping you engaged. If you want a sexy, action-packed rush of a ride with a little Chemistry in the MIX, check this out!
The cover grabbed me, I snuck a peak at the ‘Look inside,’ loved the beginning and download my copy. After recently finishing the hit show ‘Breaking Bad’ it was awesome to have a read of a female vigilante with a degree in chemistry.
Sabrina Brooks lost her mum four years ago, recently her father and now is the heiress to the Brooks Chemical business. By day she wears a sleek suit and runs the business as its CEO, but by night she goes Ninja, using chemicals as weapons. Fighting bad guys on the streets and defending neighbourhoods against gangs, she calls herself ‘The Nightcrawler.’
Starting at confession, Sabrina is speaking to her Priest and the action just flows on from there.
Nightcrawler has excellent plot-lines and elements of old style crime fighters such as The Shadow. What starts as her own vigilante campaign against New York drug gangs evolves into an all-out battle with an evil terrorist group known as The Octogon.
Without giving anything away, I will say that the author does an amazing job of pulling you in and keeping you engaged. If you want a sexy, action-packed rush of a ride with a little Chemistry in the MIX, check this out!
May 24, 2014
Nightcrawler, is another suspense packed thriller by John Reinhard Dizon. Similarly to two of his other books which I have read and reviewed, I found this a hard book to put down once I had started. The main character, Sabrina, is a justice seeking vigilante with the physical ability of superwoman and the heart of Mother Teressa. As the heiress of a chemical company and fortune, she uses her position and wealth to fight crime in New York. Coupled with this action packed drama is a gentle romance blossoming as the story progresses towards a happy ending.
For me, Dizon’s hallmark is his a way with words such as, “I’d hate to see you on a track, you’d be making olympic sprinters cry.” Added to this are his carefully thought out plots, fast moving suspense and an eye for detail suggesting a lot of background research. The theme in Nightcrawler reflects the importance of respecting others rights irrespective of differences such as gender, sexual orientation or race. At the same time Dizon rightfully points out the wrongs of such groups unjustifiably using the discrimination card, which we all have from time to time seen happen.
This is a 5 star novel which I can well recommend.
For me, Dizon’s hallmark is his a way with words such as, “I’d hate to see you on a track, you’d be making olympic sprinters cry.” Added to this are his carefully thought out plots, fast moving suspense and an eye for detail suggesting a lot of background research. The theme in Nightcrawler reflects the importance of respecting others rights irrespective of differences such as gender, sexual orientation or race. At the same time Dizon rightfully points out the wrongs of such groups unjustifiably using the discrimination card, which we all have from time to time seen happen.
This is a 5 star novel which I can well recommend.
January 22, 2014
"Nightcrawler" is a quick, easy-to-read thriller whose protagonist, Sabrina "Bree" Brooks, reminded me somewhat of Detective Olivia Benson from Law and Order: SVU: especially given the tensions that arise when romantic feelings develop between duty partners. As a fan of mysteries and strong female characters, this book was a good combination, especially because of the ethical issues it raises in both plot and side-plot: How do we reconcile a desire for revenge against a desire for justice, and what is the difference between the two? Can adultery be excused, or at least sympathized, if the adulterer is a closeted gay man in a heterosexual marriage? The book isn't preachy, but it asks you to think.
Combining mystery, romance, and action/adventure, there is a versatility about this book that can appeal to a wide range of audiences. My only nit-picky issue is that it was a tad slow to start in the beginning, with more "telling" than "showing" in both setting and character description. However, the plot does pick up rather quickly, so the time it takes to wait for the build-up is still well-spent.
Combining mystery, romance, and action/adventure, there is a versatility about this book that can appeal to a wide range of audiences. My only nit-picky issue is that it was a tad slow to start in the beginning, with more "telling" than "showing" in both setting and character description. However, the plot does pick up rather quickly, so the time it takes to wait for the build-up is still well-spent.
September 18, 2014
Move over Batman and Spiderman, there’s a new crime fighter in town.
I love to find a strong heroine in literature, and Nightcrawler did not disappoint.
Sabrina Brooks is smart, tough, and beautiful (just ask her lover, NYPD undercover cop Hoyt Wexford). As a chemist and as the heiress to her father’s chemical company, she uses her talents and resources to fight an array of bad guys in her disguise as the Nightcrawler. And the bad guys soon learn it’s not easy to mess with this kick-ass heroine.
I liked Sabrina from the beginning. She has a good heart with a desire to rid New York City of evil organizations and save the lives of innocent people in the process. And author Dizon had me hooked on the story from the beginning as well. This is a fast-paced thriller from beginning to end with themes and issues relevant to those we read about in our daily news feed.
Dizon employs a plot technique of bringing us, the reader, back and forth in time, and ultimately it works well. There are plenty of twists in the plot to keep you guessing until the explosive ending. Hold on, Dizon is going to take you for a suspenseful, thrilling ride.
I love to find a strong heroine in literature, and Nightcrawler did not disappoint.
Sabrina Brooks is smart, tough, and beautiful (just ask her lover, NYPD undercover cop Hoyt Wexford). As a chemist and as the heiress to her father’s chemical company, she uses her talents and resources to fight an array of bad guys in her disguise as the Nightcrawler. And the bad guys soon learn it’s not easy to mess with this kick-ass heroine.
I liked Sabrina from the beginning. She has a good heart with a desire to rid New York City of evil organizations and save the lives of innocent people in the process. And author Dizon had me hooked on the story from the beginning as well. This is a fast-paced thriller from beginning to end with themes and issues relevant to those we read about in our daily news feed.
Dizon employs a plot technique of bringing us, the reader, back and forth in time, and ultimately it works well. There are plenty of twists in the plot to keep you guessing until the explosive ending. Hold on, Dizon is going to take you for a suspenseful, thrilling ride.
August 17, 2016
Sabrina Brooks has inherited her father's chemical company. She also has a compulsion to help people as the masked crime-fighter called Nightcrawler.
No getting around it, but Nightcrawler is a painful read. Some sections are so poorly-written, it reminded this reviewer of the worst parts of Atlanta Nights. The action scenes are confusing. There is a load more telling than showing. Cliches abound including an alarming number of single tears that frequently roll down cheeks.
As the book wrapped I found myself questioning what, if anything should be said about this piece of fiction. The writer's heart seems in the right place, but the prose is so jarringly bad.
When it comes to Nightcrawler, the best bit of writing around it is the sales pitch on the Amazon listing.- 'Breaking Bad meets Batwoman in this wild, action-packed vigilante adventure from bestselling author ...'
What is astounding to this reader is the sheer volume of 5-star reviews in this first book in the Nightcrawler series. This was one of the more interesting reads of the year, but for all of the wrong reasons.
No getting around it, but Nightcrawler is a painful read. Some sections are so poorly-written, it reminded this reviewer of the worst parts of Atlanta Nights. The action scenes are confusing. There is a load more telling than showing. Cliches abound including an alarming number of single tears that frequently roll down cheeks.
As the book wrapped I found myself questioning what, if anything should be said about this piece of fiction. The writer's heart seems in the right place, but the prose is so jarringly bad.
When it comes to Nightcrawler, the best bit of writing around it is the sales pitch on the Amazon listing.- 'Breaking Bad meets Batwoman in this wild, action-packed vigilante adventure from bestselling author ...'
What is astounding to this reader is the sheer volume of 5-star reviews in this first book in the Nightcrawler series. This was one of the more interesting reads of the year, but for all of the wrong reasons.
July 30, 2014
The character of Sabrina Brooks is a female vigilante with a degree in chemistry, a heart for a former classmate, and a passion for slapping down terrorist plans in NYC. While preachy at times on issues of gay rights and the religion of God, the action was quickly paced and well distributed among the daily goings-on of Bree's life. (Personally, I am all for gay rights, but I found the actual message of this novel confusing.)
At times, the disjointed, non-chronological plot was confusing, and this led to issues, such as my particular pet peeve, that when someone leaves the room (in this case is thrown out the window of a blimp) that person can't be found dead when said blimp explodes.
I was offered a copy of the book in exchange for a review of my own work, and this work was not my usual cup of tea. I found it readable and somewhat entertaining. I know that other readers have it enjoyed it more thoroughly than I have.
At times, the disjointed, non-chronological plot was confusing, and this led to issues, such as my particular pet peeve, that when someone leaves the room (in this case is thrown out the window of a blimp) that person can't be found dead when said blimp explodes.
I was offered a copy of the book in exchange for a review of my own work, and this work was not my usual cup of tea. I found it readable and somewhat entertaining. I know that other readers have it enjoyed it more thoroughly than I have.
September 1, 2014
3.7/5 stars
(4.5/5 cover artwork, 4/5 plot, 3/5 character development, 3.5 reading experience, 3.5 ending)
Love the book jacket. The description made me want to read your book. The cover would definitely make me pick it up in a library or bookstore.
The story flowed well throughout the book and was fast pace. One event always led into the next.
The main characters all had full backstories. I really fell in love with Sabrina's faith in God and her moral code that wouldn't let her stand back and do nothing.
This very much follows the new headlines with everything going on lately. I could very much see this being turned into a movie.
The ending was well thought out. Who wouldn't want to thwart a terrorist attack. Sabrina's character reminds me of characters like Superman and Green Arrow, they always get there man.
I would recommend this book for any thriller readers that like fast paced action.
(4.5/5 cover artwork, 4/5 plot, 3/5 character development, 3.5 reading experience, 3.5 ending)
Love the book jacket. The description made me want to read your book. The cover would definitely make me pick it up in a library or bookstore.
The story flowed well throughout the book and was fast pace. One event always led into the next.
The main characters all had full backstories. I really fell in love with Sabrina's faith in God and her moral code that wouldn't let her stand back and do nothing.
This very much follows the new headlines with everything going on lately. I could very much see this being turned into a movie.
The ending was well thought out. Who wouldn't want to thwart a terrorist attack. Sabrina's character reminds me of characters like Superman and Green Arrow, they always get there man.
I would recommend this book for any thriller readers that like fast paced action.
September 20, 2014
Meet the superhero with a twist. HE is actually a fearless SHE with no superpowers but her brain and muscle. The Nightcrawler can tackle any man that tests her, especially if he doesn’t recognize the woman inside the Ninja costume. She’s also a girlie girl who likes pretty things, falls in love, champions social causes, and is a devoted church-goer. That’s a lot of twists when you meet Sabrina Books, a young woman trying to save her deceased father’s chemical company. During the day, Sabrina is all business - a devoted company woman - but during the night . . . few people know about her escapades. Throughout this page-turner, she’s praised and maligned in the media, plunging into terrorist plots, espionage, and crazy men like the Reaper. At the same time, she’s falling in love with a cop who wins the Medal of Valor and doesn’t know her true identity. Don’t miss this fast-paced thriller that will leave you with a smile as big as Sabrina’s!
February 12, 2014
John Reinhard Dizon has done it again with Nightcrawler. A visually stunning cover greets the reader and promises that an exciting journey awaits. Sabrina, the wealthy protagonist, inherits her father's business after he suffers an aneurism and dies. She's a criminal justice student, as was I a hundred years ago, although she attended John Jay, while I matriculated at Northeastern. Sabrina is a martial arts practitioner and weapons aficionado, who decides to be a crime fighter by night , developing an anesthetizing agent to aid her in her nocturnal activities. She selects the non de guerre of the "Nightcrawler" because she always found the creatures to be fearsome. Off goes the Nightcrawler on to an epic adventure into the city's unseemly underbelly. If you want to read more, I suggest you give Nightcrawler a read
January 31, 2014
I'm a criminal justice student, so I was drawn to Nightcrawler the second I read the synopsis. Dizon puts you right in the middle of the story with fantastic descriptions and scintillating details. The main character, Ms. Brooks, is a clever mix of Bruce Wayne and Walter White, and I loved her vigilante exploits as she used her knowledge of chemistry to incapacitate her enemies. The fight scenes were as exciting as they were suspenseful, and the story put me right in the middle of New York City. Every part of the book was captivating, and it builds to a climax that doesn't disappoint. I'm very picky about endings, and I have a bad habit of expecting too much, but in this case I was more than satisfied. Put this one on your shelves people, it's well worth the read.
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