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Redline: A John Tyler Action Thriller

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An undercover FBI agent struggles to take down a murderous robbery ring.

A retired Green Beret may be her best chance.




John Tyler is browsing in a jewelry shop when thieves descend on the place. Unarmed, he gets three workers to safety… but not before the criminals kill the fourth.

The crew’s driver, undercover fed Hope Raines, recognizes Tyler. He’s crossed the FBI before, and she knows what he’s capable of.

He might just be her salvation.

Stuck in a bad assignment, Hope reaches out to Tyler. He’s in. The two must be careful, however, to avoid alerting the gang and their mysterious, elusive leader.

When the crew turns on Hope, it’s up to Tyler to save them both. And he’s going to push the criminals right to the redline and beyond.

Redline is the 8th high octane action thriller in the John Tyler series.

442 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 24, 2024

46 people are currently reading
7 people want to read

About the author

Tom Fowler

273 books134 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Bonnye Reed.
4,713 reviews110 followers
March 10, 2025
Tyler is accidentally working with undercover FBI agent Hope Raines. He recognized the agent, and she recognized him while shopping there in the middle of a jewelry store robbery, and they both know she needs to be rescued FAST. So again, Tyler is working with the feds, mostly by chance and without pay. But we all know he loves it... Not quite as blown away as some of his exploits, but the bad guys are not thriving in this one, either. Thank Goodness!
Reviewed on March 10, 2025, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, BookBub and Kobo. Review field would not load on B&N.
94 reviews1 follower
September 24, 2024
This one was hard to put down. The tensions starts on the first page and continues to build throughout the book. The saving grace was knowing that John Tyler is a one man wrecking crew. Whatever they throw his way will be dealt with appropriately. I’m anxious to read more about his daughter, Lexi’s latest endeavor. I’m hoping she and her newest acquaintance become fast friends.
47 reviews
September 23, 2024
Tom Fowler creates two awesome series, each with its very own good guy. Each is quite different from the other. C.T. Ferguson (16 books) is the senior of the two, he is a private detective, a very good one, by the way! My review is of the newest episode of John Tyler (#8), owner of his Special Operations Classic Auto Repair, former Green Beret, called Redline. Along with John, we have his college cover daughter, Lexi; his dad, Zeke, a retired Naval officer; his two auto employees, Smitty the former shop owner and Ortiz also a former Green Beret.
Redline involves a team of bad guys who rob various businesses. Tyler happens to be in a jewelry store when the crew enter to rob it. A shot--a dead store employee--the crew's first fatality. It's now not just robbery!
Tyler teams up with an undercover FBI agent. She's the driver for the crew, she gets Tyler to act as a mechanic as the crew uses older models as getaway rides. Tyler rebuilds the engines and improves the suspension.
The interaction between the crew and Tyler is strained from the beginning, trust issues--Tyler doesn't trust the crew, and the crew doesn't trust Tyler, but Hope vouched for him. Next job (Tyler's first) is a check cashing outlet, a successful robbery. Tyler and Hope become more than undercover agents; it's still undercover though. Tension increases. The bad guys are getting increasingly suspicious, especially of Tyler. They are getting less trusting of him. And if he can't be trusted, what about Hope?
If you enjoy action, REDLINE. If you enjoy excellent storytelling, REDLINE. If you enjoy suspense, REDLINE. If you enjoy a really really great story, REDLINE.
I highly recommend this incredibly well-written thriller!!!!
1,477 reviews30 followers
December 3, 2024
The John Tyler Series:
REDLINE, #8 - A sale on diamond earrings gets Tyler working with the FBI as a mechanic. Fast paced. Realistic action. Clean. Entertaining. Still one of my top favorite series. Source: ARC. 5*

MIDNIGHT DRIVE, prequel: Interesting characters and dialogue. Good storylines but average. 3*

THE MECHANIC, #1
WHITE LINES, #2
LOST HIGHWAY, #3

FOUR ON THE FLOOR, John Tyler Series, #4 - Good characters. Good dialogues. Well written and thought out story lines. No vulgar language but plenty of realistic, fast-paced action. 4*

FORCED INDUCTION, #5 - One of my favorite series. The stories keep getting better with each new addition. FI keeps the pace fast and steady with Lexi helping John in his quest to find stolen military weapons. The characters, both old and new, blend well with the new and continuous story lines. There's a lot of blood but it is all for a good cause. Ole Uncle George is back to make things bad for John. Hard to put down but well worth the time invested. 5*

THE LOW ROAD, #6. Intense. Interesting. Good pace. Good action. Good planning throughout the story lines. Good characters making sure the baddies pay their dues. Well written and entertaining, and a one sitting read. Never mess with a classic car. Source: ARC. 5*

BACKFIRE, #7 - The intensity never slows down a second in this well written, fast paced, hard to put down, interesting and immersing story complete with good characters and great story lines. Each addition to this series just gets better. Source: ARC. 5*
1,762 reviews12 followers
September 19, 2024

I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story begins with Tyler in a jewelry store looking for a birthday present for Lexi when robbers enter the store. Tyler helps an old customer that might be having a heart attack into the back. Once he returns and before the robbers are gone, an employee attempts to run but is shot and killed. The driver of the getaway car is outside and sees Tyler.

It turns out that the driver is an undercover FBI agent who winds up approaching Tyler for help. It seems that the gang is looking for a mechanic and Tyler fits the bill. Hope the agent had recognized Tyler from an incident that happened in West Virginia. Tyler agrees and his role is to help fix cars that will be used in the getaway. Things go smooth for a while before one of the gang members becomes suspicious of Tyler. Things finally come to a head when Hope, the FBI agent, is abducted and a short time later Tyler is too.

Hope has been taken to a location where the big boss is and Tyler is also on way there as well. To find out who the big boss is, why both are being taken there and how it all ends up, then you need to read this book.

If you enjoy Tom Fowler's stories, then this is one that you don't want to miss out on!
178 reviews2 followers
September 24, 2024
Redline is a gripping and suspenseful read. It is filled with numerous unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover the next turn in the plot.
Redline features a rich plot and a diverse and numerous cast of characters, each with a unique story and role in the narrative, engaging readers and connecting them to the story.
The protagonist, John Tyler, a former Green Beret, joins an undercover FBI operation pursuing a gang of store robbers, teaming up with a spirited female agent.
Soon, the situation gets complicated, but instead of evolving straight into a fireworks finale, like some of the previous books in the series, the story takes unexpected twists and turns and accelerates the pace.
For those who crave action, 'Redline' delivers. The novel is a rollercoaster of adrenaline-pumping thrills from high-speed car chases to intense gunfights.
Lexi, John's daughter, has a cameo parallel story connected to another series by the same author, which will entice Mr. Fowler's fans' curiosity.
Readers familiar with the previous episodes will also be pleased to discover a more mature and reflective JT. New ones will be intrigued by its personality and captivated by the other characters in his team.
Profile Image for Judy Johnson.
840 reviews2 followers
September 12, 2024
Tom Fowler does another AMAZING job with this book! The writing is superb I just can't say enough about this excellent newest book in the John Tyler series. Before I go further, you need to know that this book CAN be read as a standalone, due to the excellent descriptors with enough backstory, and besides being a nail-biter and edge of your seater, it will only make you (even more) want to go back and read the others.
A fast-paced book with plenty of action, fast cars, stuntlike driving, and likable characters with realistic relationships. I can't forget the REALLY bad guys with one that is so trigger-happy it's gutwrenching. Tyler is a good, no GREAT guy who is protective of all that is right. Although he has a dicey past with the FBI, he joins forces with them to kick some ass and take no prisoners in this riveting story that starts with Tyler being in the wrong place at the wrong time, but ultimately doing the right thing! The ending was a total surprise and left me with my jaw hanging open.
Bottom line: A fabulous action thriller that will leave the reader smiling and satisfied at the end.
Profile Image for Teresa Collins.
1,127 reviews19 followers
September 2, 2024
Tom Fowler has another winner on his hands with the latest in his John Tyler series. There is action, fast cars, butt-kicking, and great relationships. I love the relationship between Tyler and Lexi. Tyler has so much respect for his daughter and yet is still your typical protective dad. Tyler also has a great relationship with his employees and I'm a sucker for the camaraderie that develops between members of the military. While Tyler and Ortiz aren't in the military currently (and they didn't serve together) they still have that type of relationship. Ortiz has Tyler's back whenever he's needed.) Mr. Fowler shows Tyler's adult relationships (I hope Hope is staying around for a while since Sarah decided to up and leave.) without getting graphic or detailed. This series has everything the thriller lover could ask for and then piles on more. I can't wait to see what kind of trouble Tyler gets into next, because he can't seem to avoid it.
I received a review copy from the author at my request and this review is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tina Lincoln.
471 reviews6 followers
August 24, 2024
Great Good-Guys Story!
This was another amazing non-stop story about John Tyler, retired Green Beret, who always ends up landing in to something that a guy with his skills can always help with. Happening to be in the wrong place at the wrong time is another thing that ends up happening, and this is no different. Knowing the tell-tale signs of a robbery about in progress, he tries to warn the people at the jewelry story, but it did not help.
John Tyler can not stay out of trouble, even though he does it to help others who are in trouble.
I recommend this entire series to anyone who loves a great story and series, anyone who likes reading about a guy who gets dirty alot staying clean, and who has a sexy girl who is not committed to each other.
Thank you, Tom Fowler, for another Great Story!
I received a complimentary copy of this story and this is my honest review.
6,035 reviews45 followers
August 22, 2024
Another exciting bunch of adventures and misadventures for ex special operator John Tyler.

Special Agent Hope Rained, and Lexi, daughter to John Tyler, also have several interesting moments with cameo appearances from a favorite investigation team.

Drama, suspense and twisted and lethal action and lots of plot twists, as Tyler works his skills once again, and gets beat up a bit more than in the past - everyone starts to miss a beat at some point, and that is always enough for damage or dead.

Some self reflection, smart, clever, and fast car driving and butt kicking women, and really adept or really inept males, who seem very imperfect.

Entertainment, and reflections on aging warriors, tangled honor and loyalties, and prosecution and defenses.



214 reviews4 followers
August 25, 2024
Brilliant story following John Tyler a retired green beret who goes shopping for some earrings for his daughters birthday and gets caught up in a gang raid and tries to help the staff to safety but one gets shot. The driver a FBI undercover agent recognises John and she recruits him as a a mechanic into the gang hoping they can bring the gang down.
This is a thrill and exciting read that keeps you on the edge of your seat with fast car chases and drama.
Would highly recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
2,604 reviews45 followers
August 26, 2024
This was a fast paced high speed read. A choreographed group of bank robbers are infiltrated by a Fed and her friend. I was very pleased that the trigger happy criminal got his come uppance . The Feds were closing in on the criminals, but the criminals were catching up and closing in too. This was hair raising, intense, and gripping to read. What's going to happen to Tyler and Felicity??? Big twists. It was nice to see Tyler have a bit of romance in his life along with all the blood and guts fighting.
659 reviews4 followers
September 25, 2024
I sincerely believe that you don't get better than a Tom Fowler novel whichever of his series you choose. The Tyler series is excellent and this time our hero is asked to help out an undercover FBI agent. I liked that Tyler was asked for a change rather than his usual deciding to do the right thing. There's action, tension and smart dialogue throughout that raise the story above the more mundane. Basically, the authors great, the series is great, the characters are great and the story is great. Give it a read even if you're new to the series.
15 reviews
September 25, 2024
Right from the first book in this series you have to love the characters. The plots and storytelling are top notch. Tom Fowler is one of my all time favorite authors and he keeps you riveted throughout. You can almost feel like you are right there with John Tyler, Lexi and some of the others that join the story. Keep writing them and I’ll keep reading them. Thank you as alway, Tom, for allowing me to be a part of your advance readers team. I’m proud to be a small part in the Fell Street Irregulars.
Profile Image for BJayne.
151 reviews18 followers
August 27, 2024
I wish I knew someone like John Tyler in real life! He's always ready and willing to lend a hand in the fight against crime. And he's good at it. Very good.

If you've read previous books about John Tyler, you'll enjoy this one too. If you haven't, this book can easily stand on it's own. But once you get acquainted with Tyler, you'll probably want to read more about him.

I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Manfred.
554 reviews
September 15, 2024
While John Tyler is looking for a present for his daughter at a jewelry store, the store gets robbed. Unarmed, he can still help a wounded employee and keeps the robbers calm. The driver is an undercover FBI agent who is in over her head, but recognizes Tyler and contacts him for help. And so a dangerous undercover op begins for Tyler, but not only that. Action packed as usual with some unexpected twists. A great series continues.
324 reviews
September 26, 2024
It is worth of ten stars.

I was anguished for having to wait until this marvellous adventure was published.
Well, finally it appeared in my Kindle Fire because I bought it many months before it was edited.
I love the personages, obviously John Tyler first! His mode of face a problem gets my love of justice at peace.
Thank you Mr. Tom Fowler!!!
Now I begin the suffering for the next one!
Monica Beltrami, Montevideo, Uruguay.
Profile Image for Carolyn Valdez.
504 reviews12 followers
September 27, 2024
Even though this is the eighth book in this series, it never gets tiring or boring Trouble always seems to find John Tyler, and help is what he enjoys doing. This has a lot of action, adventure, and a new character whom we know may or may not stay around. I can’t wait to see what is going to happen in the next story. Keep them coming, Mr. Fowler!!


I received a complementary copy and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.


860 reviews22 followers
August 23, 2024
Fast cars, an organised cohort of theives, murder and a beautiful undercover FBI Agent are in the mix for this John Tyler thriller.
Plenty of action and moments of suspense pulls you into this story. An unexpected twist raises the ante for the undercover agent.
I read this in a sitting. Great entertainment.
219 reviews2 followers
September 14, 2024
This John Tyler adventure is full of action, dangerous situations, murder, and revenge. In cooperation with a lovely FBI agent, Hope Rained, Tyler is hired by a criminal gang to replace the prior mechanic to “soup up” get-a-way vehicles for all their crimes. Since the gang viciously murdered their last mechanic for bad work product, Tyler, as an accomplished auto mechanic, not only has to make the vehicles work according to the demands of the gang, he also has to navigate lots of intrigue, back-stabbing, threats on his life, and total distrust. Thoroughly enjoyed this next story in the series and am looking forward to the next adventure.
116 reviews3 followers
September 26, 2024
This John Tyler story postulates an interesting development. We’ll see what happens in further books. But don’t you dare, Tom Fowler, lose Tyler!!!! Car junkies should love this one, what with all the modification stuff going on. The main story is fast acting and Tyler gets some action! Woo Woo! I love John Tyler and can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Anne G. Kasaba.
1,926 reviews9 followers
September 27, 2024
This is the best John Tyler book yet and they’ve all been excellent. This story is well written with a great storyline. The main protagonist is engaging and the supporting characters a great blend of interesting personalities although I do admit I miss Sarah. Can’t wait to read the next one!

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
148 reviews
October 16, 2024
Could not put down.

I was hoping for a good long enjoyable read for this book. What I got was a fast paced adventure and sore eyes from reading the whole thing. Loved the storyline, the characters, and of course the action. Mr Fowler is a very talented and skilled author. Now I have to wait until next year for the next story. Get this book, read and enjoy.
568 reviews2 followers
January 5, 2025
Always a fun read.

I enjoy reading these novels with John Tyler. You know they will be fast action stories with hints of humour and romance. Tyler is roped in by a female undercover FBI agent who had recognised him during a robbery. Bring down the gang!
No more to say except read and wile away a coup!e of hours of escapism reading.
1,309 reviews16 followers
August 29, 2024
These well developed, intelligent characters are a pleasure to follow. And this novel is a stellar example. Stomach-churning scenes, realistic dialogue, and a shocking moment to rattle the best of us. An Outstanding Story. Highly Recommended.
2,538 reviews6 followers
September 18, 2024
John Tyler and a beautiful FBI agent go undercover with a murderous gang of robbers. Can they pull it off long enough to unmask the brutal Big Boss? Lots of edge-of-your-seat excitement.
I reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book with no strings attached.
608 reviews3 followers
September 22, 2024
Another winner in the John Tyler Action Thriller Series. It is a fun fast paced story with lots of action.
If you love bad guys, fast cars, shoot outs and a bit of mystery this book is for you. I thoroughly enjoyed this and looking forward to the next.
5 reviews
September 24, 2024
Another high paced revenge story following a familiar formula, but told in a very different way. High action from the beginning and keeps you hooked all the way through. A great read, highly recommended. I hope you enjoy it too.
224 reviews1 follower
September 25, 2024
A great read in this series. John Tyler is an intriguing character, full of action & always out to do the right thing. This book is no exception. A fast paced, action packed read with murder, mystery & romance….who could want more. You won’t be disappointed!
1,728 reviews12 followers
September 27, 2024
FBI Operations

I have read all of the John Tyler action thrillers and can honestly say that they keep getting betterer and betterer. Okay, maybe not a word but it should be. Tyler is a hero, a son and a father and a perfect companion for a rainy day. Thank you, Tom Fowler!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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