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The Mind Hacker #2
The Phantom
How do you catch a killer whose playground spans the United States?
FBI Special Agent Tracey Smith is barely back on his feet when Behavioral Analysis Unit 4 is dropped into the heart of another case.
This one proves a brilliant agent’s hunch was right:
This perpetrator hunts a huge geographical area.
The signature is subtle, the deaths just unique enough to tie them together.
Future victims are impossible to warn.
Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson is struggling. At work, Smith is his talented protégé. At home, Tracey is his boyfriend. They’re forced to hide to save their jobs, but Tracey is nobody’s dirty secret.
Jon wants to be out as a couple outside of work. So why can’t he let Tracey all the way in? Has the Ice Man been in control for too long to release his secrets now?
For a man compulsively drawn to darkness, how far will the lies and subterfuge go?
The Phantom is book 2 of The Mind Hacker series, and isn’t easily understood without reading book 1, The Family Man. The story follows Jon and Tracey, the grumpy/sunshine main charachters through hurt/comfort and forbidden romance situations all the way through to their eventual happily-ever-after.
Content warning: The Mind Hacker series contains themes of dark violence, including off-page sexual assault, psychological manipulation, narcissism, and other disturbing themes.
Every word and cover of every book published by this author has been crafted by a human and always will be.
FBI Special Agent Tracey Smith is barely back on his feet when Behavioral Analysis Unit 4 is dropped into the heart of another case.
This one proves a brilliant agent’s hunch was right:
This perpetrator hunts a huge geographical area.
The signature is subtle, the deaths just unique enough to tie them together.
Future victims are impossible to warn.
Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson is struggling. At work, Smith is his talented protégé. At home, Tracey is his boyfriend. They’re forced to hide to save their jobs, but Tracey is nobody’s dirty secret.
Jon wants to be out as a couple outside of work. So why can’t he let Tracey all the way in? Has the Ice Man been in control for too long to release his secrets now?
For a man compulsively drawn to darkness, how far will the lies and subterfuge go?
The Phantom is book 2 of The Mind Hacker series, and isn’t easily understood without reading book 1, The Family Man. The story follows Jon and Tracey, the grumpy/sunshine main charachters through hurt/comfort and forbidden romance situations all the way through to their eventual happily-ever-after.
Content warning: The Mind Hacker series contains themes of dark violence, including off-page sexual assault, psychological manipulation, narcissism, and other disturbing themes.
Every word and cover of every book published by this author has been crafted by a human and always will be.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2024
10 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 16, 2024
While not as good as the first book this was still a great follow up installment.
More of this book focused on the relationship between Tracey and Jon. I wish there was more excitement including their case. This had less of their jobs and more family and relationship drama.
Jon is keeping one big secret from Tracey so it will be very interesting to see how that goes. I’m looking forward to more in this series.
**ARC provided for review
**All thoughts and opinions are my own
More of this book focused on the relationship between Tracey and Jon. I wish there was more excitement including their case. This had less of their jobs and more family and relationship drama.
Jon is keeping one big secret from Tracey so it will be very interesting to see how that goes. I’m looking forward to more in this series.
**ARC provided for review
**All thoughts and opinions are my own
October 19, 2024
***4.5 Stars***
October 27, 2024
B / 4 stars
Having really enjoyed AJ Rose’s The Family Man (book one in The Mind Hacker series) I’ve been looking forward to reading The Phantom, which promised to be another compelling read. The suspense plot is interesting and well-constructed - I like the way the author balances the moments of action with the painstaking research and the time spent looking through files and CCTV involved in our protagonists’ line of work as behavioural analysts with the FBI - and the romance is progressing well, although there are some very real obstacles to overcome.
Note: this is a same-couple series, so there are likely to be spoilers for the previous book in this review, and reading the books in order is advisable.
The Family Man introduced readers to the members of Unit 4 of the FBI’s elite NCVAC (National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime) division, a four-person team headed by the enigmatic Jon Anderson, one of the BAU’s most effective agents whose reputation for being cool, calm and collected has earned him the nickname ‘Ice Man’. Special Agent Tracey Smith, the newest member of the team, was shot in the leg during the take-down of the serial killer Jason Finch (aka the Family Man), and Jon suggested that Tracey should stay with him while he recovers. It’s a perfectly reasonable thing to do - Jon’s house doesn’t have as many stairs as Tracey’s three-storey townhouse, and he’ll need help getting around for a few weeks. What their teammates don’t know is that Jon and Tracey have become more than just colleagues; they’d struggled – in vain - to resist their growing mutual attraction and had hooked up a couple of times while on the case, despite the FBI’s anti-fraternisation rules. It’s been a long time since Jon has felt this kind of connection to anyone, and Tracey has never felt so strongly drawn to a guy ever; neither of them has a clear idea of where their relationship might go, but they know they want a chance to explore the possibilities in spite of the potential risk to their careers.
When The Phantom begins, Tracey and Jon have been living together for a couple of months, getting to know each other better and settling into a kind of comfortable domesticity they both enjoy. But they know it can’t last and are both unsure about what they want to happen once Tracey is cleared to drive and their last reason for ‘rooming together’ is gone. But all that has to be put on the back-burner when a new case comes their way. The body of a man found dead at a DC motel appears to be linked to a few other recent murders – two in Chicago, one in Atlanta – and the boss wants Unit 4 on the case. Tracey has been back at work for a while on desk duty, but has just been told he can ditch his crutches (despite his doctor’s concern that his leg isn’t healing as it should) and is ready to get back into the field. Accompanied by team members Sarena Mercado and Perry Vaughn, Jon and Tracey make their way to the scene to meet with local detectives and see if they can work out what might link this death to the murders in Chicago and Atlanta.
When two very different pictures of the victim emerge – one of them a conservative family man working for a publicly anti-gay lobbyist group; the other a man who regularly engaged in rough sex with anonymous men – the deep dive into his background reveals some some unsettling things about his past that could considerably widen the suspect pool. Speaking to friends and lovers of the other victims also reveals some clear similarities between them – namely that they all had to deal with some pretty horrific things in their lives because they were queer – family ostracism, physical and emotional abuse, conversion therapy – things that left indelible imprints on their psyches that ultimately made them into the perfect prey for a deeply disturbed killer.
AJ Rose states in their note at the beginning that the work of the BAU as depicted in fiction is romanticised, that the analysts are usually backroom boys whose work is to find clues by combing through crime scene evidence, witness statements and police observations, and they freely acknowledge that they, like all those other writers and producers, have taken a degree of dramatic license for the sake of telling a good story. But I like the analytical element in these stories and that we’re not jumping from one car chase or shoot-out to the next; I like reading about people who use their brains to save the day, and I enjoyed being alongside the team as they question family, friends and aquaintances of the victims, watching them think through the information they’re given and piecing it together with all the snippets they glean from other sources. There are real moments of frustration as they come up against legal brick walls that impede the investigation, and moments of hell, yeah! when things begin to fall into place and strong leads emerge.
But while the case is fascinating, The Phantom feels more relationship-centred than The Family Man, with Jon and Tracey now a couple in the early stages of a relationship that is perhaps moving a little too fast. Tracey is dealing with a lot – he’s still new to the job and the city, his injury isn’t healing properly, he’s still having nightmares about what happened to him, he’s only just realised he’s bisexual, and he’s in his first ever relationship with a man (and worrying about coming out to his parents) – so it’s no wonder he’s feeling somewhat overwhelmed by it all. He cares for Jon and knows Jon cares for him, but he comes to realise that maybe he needs some space to process everything and that living with Jon isn’t going to make that any easier. They need to choose each other, not just be together because they’ve been thrown there by circumstance – and even though they can’t be openly together at work, he doesn’t want to feel like Jon’s dirty little secret. It’s a tough ask and they both know it, so Jon arrives at a kind of halfway-house solution by intiving Tracey to meet his best friend and his new partner; he and Tracey can be out as a couple with them as they’re unlikely ever to cross paths with anyone at the FBI. (I admit that this seemed really odd – there’s a very real threat to their jobs if they’re found out so the idea that they can be seen as a couple in some places and not in others feels like they’re taking a really big risk.) And Jon has spent so many years in the persona of the Ice Man that keeping secrets has become almost second nature and he’s finding it difficult to let Tracey fully into all aspects of his life. There are things he needs to tell Tracey – things he plans to tell him – but something (and he doesn’t know quite what) is holding him back. (I have the feeling this is going to bite him in the arse fairly soon!)
Once again, there’s a great sense of camaraderie between the members of Unit 4; Perry and Sarena have important roles to play, I liked their banter and the way they all have each other’s backs no matter what. I’ll repeat some of the minor criticisms I levied at The Family Man - there’s a bit too much minutiae in some places and the pacing flags a bit in others – and add that the final take-down is perhaps a little anticlimactic, but even so, The Phantom is a solidly good read and an engaging instalment in this new(ish) romantic suspense series. I’ll definitely be back for book three.
Having really enjoyed AJ Rose’s The Family Man (book one in The Mind Hacker series) I’ve been looking forward to reading The Phantom, which promised to be another compelling read. The suspense plot is interesting and well-constructed - I like the way the author balances the moments of action with the painstaking research and the time spent looking through files and CCTV involved in our protagonists’ line of work as behavioural analysts with the FBI - and the romance is progressing well, although there are some very real obstacles to overcome.
Note: this is a same-couple series, so there are likely to be spoilers for the previous book in this review, and reading the books in order is advisable.
The Family Man introduced readers to the members of Unit 4 of the FBI’s elite NCVAC (National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime) division, a four-person team headed by the enigmatic Jon Anderson, one of the BAU’s most effective agents whose reputation for being cool, calm and collected has earned him the nickname ‘Ice Man’. Special Agent Tracey Smith, the newest member of the team, was shot in the leg during the take-down of the serial killer Jason Finch (aka the Family Man), and Jon suggested that Tracey should stay with him while he recovers. It’s a perfectly reasonable thing to do - Jon’s house doesn’t have as many stairs as Tracey’s three-storey townhouse, and he’ll need help getting around for a few weeks. What their teammates don’t know is that Jon and Tracey have become more than just colleagues; they’d struggled – in vain - to resist their growing mutual attraction and had hooked up a couple of times while on the case, despite the FBI’s anti-fraternisation rules. It’s been a long time since Jon has felt this kind of connection to anyone, and Tracey has never felt so strongly drawn to a guy ever; neither of them has a clear idea of where their relationship might go, but they know they want a chance to explore the possibilities in spite of the potential risk to their careers.
When The Phantom begins, Tracey and Jon have been living together for a couple of months, getting to know each other better and settling into a kind of comfortable domesticity they both enjoy. But they know it can’t last and are both unsure about what they want to happen once Tracey is cleared to drive and their last reason for ‘rooming together’ is gone. But all that has to be put on the back-burner when a new case comes their way. The body of a man found dead at a DC motel appears to be linked to a few other recent murders – two in Chicago, one in Atlanta – and the boss wants Unit 4 on the case. Tracey has been back at work for a while on desk duty, but has just been told he can ditch his crutches (despite his doctor’s concern that his leg isn’t healing as it should) and is ready to get back into the field. Accompanied by team members Sarena Mercado and Perry Vaughn, Jon and Tracey make their way to the scene to meet with local detectives and see if they can work out what might link this death to the murders in Chicago and Atlanta.
When two very different pictures of the victim emerge – one of them a conservative family man working for a publicly anti-gay lobbyist group; the other a man who regularly engaged in rough sex with anonymous men – the deep dive into his background reveals some some unsettling things about his past that could considerably widen the suspect pool. Speaking to friends and lovers of the other victims also reveals some clear similarities between them – namely that they all had to deal with some pretty horrific things in their lives because they were queer – family ostracism, physical and emotional abuse, conversion therapy – things that left indelible imprints on their psyches that ultimately made them into the perfect prey for a deeply disturbed killer.
AJ Rose states in their note at the beginning that the work of the BAU as depicted in fiction is romanticised, that the analysts are usually backroom boys whose work is to find clues by combing through crime scene evidence, witness statements and police observations, and they freely acknowledge that they, like all those other writers and producers, have taken a degree of dramatic license for the sake of telling a good story. But I like the analytical element in these stories and that we’re not jumping from one car chase or shoot-out to the next; I like reading about people who use their brains to save the day, and I enjoyed being alongside the team as they question family, friends and aquaintances of the victims, watching them think through the information they’re given and piecing it together with all the snippets they glean from other sources. There are real moments of frustration as they come up against legal brick walls that impede the investigation, and moments of hell, yeah! when things begin to fall into place and strong leads emerge.
But while the case is fascinating, The Phantom feels more relationship-centred than The Family Man, with Jon and Tracey now a couple in the early stages of a relationship that is perhaps moving a little too fast. Tracey is dealing with a lot – he’s still new to the job and the city, his injury isn’t healing properly, he’s still having nightmares about what happened to him, he’s only just realised he’s bisexual, and he’s in his first ever relationship with a man (and worrying about coming out to his parents) – so it’s no wonder he’s feeling somewhat overwhelmed by it all. He cares for Jon and knows Jon cares for him, but he comes to realise that maybe he needs some space to process everything and that living with Jon isn’t going to make that any easier. They need to choose each other, not just be together because they’ve been thrown there by circumstance – and even though they can’t be openly together at work, he doesn’t want to feel like Jon’s dirty little secret. It’s a tough ask and they both know it, so Jon arrives at a kind of halfway-house solution by intiving Tracey to meet his best friend and his new partner; he and Tracey can be out as a couple with them as they’re unlikely ever to cross paths with anyone at the FBI. (I admit that this seemed really odd – there’s a very real threat to their jobs if they’re found out so the idea that they can be seen as a couple in some places and not in others feels like they’re taking a really big risk.) And Jon has spent so many years in the persona of the Ice Man that keeping secrets has become almost second nature and he’s finding it difficult to let Tracey fully into all aspects of his life. There are things he needs to tell Tracey – things he plans to tell him – but something (and he doesn’t know quite what) is holding him back. (I have the feeling this is going to bite him in the arse fairly soon!)
Once again, there’s a great sense of camaraderie between the members of Unit 4; Perry and Sarena have important roles to play, I liked their banter and the way they all have each other’s backs no matter what. I’ll repeat some of the minor criticisms I levied at The Family Man - there’s a bit too much minutiae in some places and the pacing flags a bit in others – and add that the final take-down is perhaps a little anticlimactic, but even so, The Phantom is a solidly good read and an engaging instalment in this new(ish) romantic suspense series. I’ll definitely be back for book three.
dnf
September 30, 2024It might just be my mood, but I can’t seem to get into this one. I enjoyed the first but I seem to be slogging through this. I might come back later, but I need to move on.
September 15, 2024
The second book in the series delved more into the budding relationship between Tracey and Jon. I liked getting to know them better. The story was steadily paced no steam mystery. The case and investigation while still interesting and well written left me a bit underwhelmed especially in the end. It needed more on the edge of your sit moments that I didn't get here like from their first case. The team's dynamics were fun to explore as well. I am looking forward to the next book since I like this author's writing style.
September 26, 2024
Facing Their Demons
The Phantom
THE MIND HACKER BOOK TWO
AJ ROSE
Tracey is the rookie, Jon the experienced one in partnership working for BAU’s Unit 4 in the FBI.
Tracey has been staying at Jon’s house, recovering from his ordeal with the Family Man, both physically and mentally with PTSD. Through his friendship with the jokester Perry he's discovered a podcast focusing on mediation. Yet his demons still linger.
Recent murders in Chicago and Atlanta similarities with a new case featuring a lobbyist from Washington, Ethan Wright, a 'happily' married man.
The victims are closeted gay men, and Wright as a young teen was sent to Enlightened Covenant Ministries; "religious camps"; a facade for conversion therapy.
Living in close quarters before even getting a hold on their relationship is causing extra strain between the men. I like the fact that Rose delves deep into the secrets and trauma taking their toll on them, with Jon and his hidden room with FBI files and both of them having to hide being together, never mind the aspects of the victims being gay men, especially with Tracey just having his own bi awakening.
The other characters are very well drawn, particularly IT expert and incorrigible flirt, Patrick Byrne, and Perry.
We have the complicated romance, the steamy parts, the violent and sickening crimes, the investigation, the kink elements and a real core of darkness at its heart.
This is gripping stuff. I loved Rose's Power Exchange series and I'm completely hooked into this one now.
Gripping and emotional.
The Phantom
THE MIND HACKER BOOK TWO
AJ ROSE
Tracey is the rookie, Jon the experienced one in partnership working for BAU’s Unit 4 in the FBI.
Tracey has been staying at Jon’s house, recovering from his ordeal with the Family Man, both physically and mentally with PTSD. Through his friendship with the jokester Perry he's discovered a podcast focusing on mediation. Yet his demons still linger.
Recent murders in Chicago and Atlanta similarities with a new case featuring a lobbyist from Washington, Ethan Wright, a 'happily' married man.
The victims are closeted gay men, and Wright as a young teen was sent to Enlightened Covenant Ministries; "religious camps"; a facade for conversion therapy.
Living in close quarters before even getting a hold on their relationship is causing extra strain between the men. I like the fact that Rose delves deep into the secrets and trauma taking their toll on them, with Jon and his hidden room with FBI files and both of them having to hide being together, never mind the aspects of the victims being gay men, especially with Tracey just having his own bi awakening.
The other characters are very well drawn, particularly IT expert and incorrigible flirt, Patrick Byrne, and Perry.
We have the complicated romance, the steamy parts, the violent and sickening crimes, the investigation, the kink elements and a real core of darkness at its heart.
This is gripping stuff. I loved Rose's Power Exchange series and I'm completely hooked into this one now.
Gripping and emotional.
September 18, 2024
The Phantom is the second book in The Mind Hacker series. This is not a standalone and should be read after The Family Man to get the most out of the story. This is the continuing story of FBI agent Tracey Smith a member of the Behavioral Analysis Unit and FBI Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson Tracey's boss. I love this series so much. AJ Rose has created such an amazing set of characters both the main characters and the side characters. I loved the confusion about their relationship and how Tracey and Jon deal with it. I loved the plot of the story. This book has it all action, romance, a great plot, and plenty of steam. I couldn't put this book down once I started it. I really hope AJ Rose continues to add books to this series. I would definitely recommend this book and series as a 5 star read.
September 21, 2024
Back with Jon and Tracy as Tracy is recovering from being shot in the last book.
They are thrown into a case where gay men are being killed after joining a dating app.
Very Criminal Mindsesque.
I liked how the team works together and that Jon and Tracey decided that they can be out with Jons friends. Although they try to keep their relationship secret at work, the team do know they are together and confront them.
Hoping we get further adventures from this team.
They are thrown into a case where gay men are being killed after joining a dating app.
Very Criminal Mindsesque.
I liked how the team works together and that Jon and Tracey decided that they can be out with Jons friends. Although they try to keep their relationship secret at work, the team do know they are together and confront them.
Hoping we get further adventures from this team.
September 15, 2024
Entertaining mystery and strong romantic tension shine in this continuation of the Mind Hacker series, featuring FBI agents and forbidden lovers Tracey Smith and Jon Anderson
Book 1 left me a little Off but this one I enjoyed almost all of. Tracey and Jon find themselves living together—temporarily—in the aftermath of the events of book 1 as Tracey recovers from his gunshot wound. It both works and is too soon for them, creating delicious romantic tension and conflict as they continue to hide their new relationship from their FBI colleagues.
The mystery here is less imminently threatening, which I appreciated, humming along in the background as they try to figure out who’s meeting men via a hookup ap and killing them. The investigation leads to some dark places, including conversion camps, and witnesses and family hold back crucial info. Secrets abound. I actually liked the OTT ending, which again seemed unlikely and a bit telenovela, but was satisfying.
But the best part for me is, as usual, the romance. As feared, Jon’s former F-buddy is his bestie, and now Tracey has to also be friends with him (Brian) and his boyfriend (Tristan). BUT, the author did make use of the fact that Jon never told Tracey he and Brian were not just friends but long time F-buddies, and I loved that conflict and tension, it played out well. I was still pissed at Jon, because who does that to someone they care about——but, there were good confrontations and angst around it and yeah, I ate it up.
Seeing the scene turns around Tracey and his parents also added strong tension to the read, and the way they worked through the issues was again satisfying. Tracey’s father in particular shines in this story, I enjoyed “meeting” him.
Jon and Tracey’s colleagues Perry and Sarena are again strong secondary characters who support the story and add layers to the plot. I particularly liked the conundrum around Jon’s career and how he dealt with it, and the respect he showed his team.
Another HFN, forbidden romance between FBI special agents (supervisor-rookie), serial killer mystery. OM drama in a good way, resulting in strong communication (and great fallout LOL). Recommended, as is this series. I hope there’s more! The Hypnotist, anyone? Jon’s still got secrets…!
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC. This is my free and impartial opinion.
Book 1 left me a little Off but this one I enjoyed almost all of. Tracey and Jon find themselves living together—temporarily—in the aftermath of the events of book 1 as Tracey recovers from his gunshot wound. It both works and is too soon for them, creating delicious romantic tension and conflict as they continue to hide their new relationship from their FBI colleagues.
The mystery here is less imminently threatening, which I appreciated, humming along in the background as they try to figure out who’s meeting men via a hookup ap and killing them. The investigation leads to some dark places, including conversion camps, and witnesses and family hold back crucial info. Secrets abound. I actually liked the OTT ending, which again seemed unlikely and a bit telenovela, but was satisfying.
But the best part for me is, as usual, the romance. As feared, Jon’s former F-buddy is his bestie, and now Tracey has to also be friends with him (Brian) and his boyfriend (Tristan). BUT, the author did make use of the fact that Jon never told Tracey he and Brian were not just friends but long time F-buddies, and I loved that conflict and tension, it played out well. I was still pissed at Jon, because who does that to someone they care about——but, there were good confrontations and angst around it and yeah, I ate it up.
Seeing the scene turns around Tracey and his parents also added strong tension to the read, and the way they worked through the issues was again satisfying. Tracey’s father in particular shines in this story, I enjoyed “meeting” him.
Jon and Tracey’s colleagues Perry and Sarena are again strong secondary characters who support the story and add layers to the plot. I particularly liked the conundrum around Jon’s career and how he dealt with it, and the respect he showed his team.
Another HFN, forbidden romance between FBI special agents (supervisor-rookie), serial killer mystery. OM drama in a good way, resulting in strong communication (and great fallout LOL). Recommended, as is this series. I hope there’s more! The Hypnotist, anyone? Jon’s still got secrets…!
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC. This is my free and impartial opinion.
September 25, 2024
Gripping and Authentic Crime Thriller
"The Phantom" by AJ Rose is a masterclass in crime fiction, delivering an electrifying and immersive experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As FBI Special Agent Tracey Smith and Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson delve into another complex case, Rose expertly weaves together a narrative that's both thrilling and thought-provoking.
The author's meticulous approach to police procedure is impressive, making the investigative process feel eerily realistic. I found myself fully invested, analyzing clues alongside Smith and Anderson, and reveling in the satisfaction of piecing together the puzzle.
What sets "The Phantom" apart is its nuanced exploration of the agents' personal lives. The clandestine relationship between Smith and Anderson adds depth to the story, heightening tension and emotional stakes.
Rose's writing is polished, with crisp dialogue and vivid descriptions that transport readers into the heart of the investigation.
*Highlights:*
- Exceptional police procedural accuracy
- Engaging, complex characters
- Intricate plotting with surprising twists
- Thought-provoking themes on identity, secrecy, and relationships
*Recommendation:*
If you're a fan of crime thrillers, LGBTQ+ fiction, or are simply looking for a compelling story, "The Phantom" is an absolute must-read. AJ Rose has crafted a gripping narrative that will captivate and resonate with readers.
"The Phantom" by AJ Rose is a masterclass in crime fiction, delivering an electrifying and immersive experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As FBI Special Agent Tracey Smith and Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson delve into another complex case, Rose expertly weaves together a narrative that's both thrilling and thought-provoking.
The author's meticulous approach to police procedure is impressive, making the investigative process feel eerily realistic. I found myself fully invested, analyzing clues alongside Smith and Anderson, and reveling in the satisfaction of piecing together the puzzle.
What sets "The Phantom" apart is its nuanced exploration of the agents' personal lives. The clandestine relationship between Smith and Anderson adds depth to the story, heightening tension and emotional stakes.
Rose's writing is polished, with crisp dialogue and vivid descriptions that transport readers into the heart of the investigation.
*Highlights:*
- Exceptional police procedural accuracy
- Engaging, complex characters
- Intricate plotting with surprising twists
- Thought-provoking themes on identity, secrecy, and relationships
*Recommendation:*
If you're a fan of crime thrillers, LGBTQ+ fiction, or are simply looking for a compelling story, "The Phantom" is an absolute must-read. AJ Rose has crafted a gripping narrative that will captivate and resonate with readers.
March 17, 2025
4.25 Stars
I liked this one better than first one. It follows on directly from the previous book as the team are still recovering and coming to terms with what happened.
The new case is well done and I enjoyed how the team worked together to solve it. There was a heap of research and information gathering that pieced together the case, linking each victim one by one and so when the final piece came to the attention of the team they were ready to act.
I had an issue last book with the relationship and while I couldn't put my finger on it at the time, I think it was the power imbalance and the fact that Jon was just so agreeable. Yes he tried to make Tracey comfortable, and the relationship progressed so quickly but it didn't seem real. This one sees them take a step back and actually date, which is good as they went from meeting to living together within a few weeks.
I also liked that Tracey spoke to people, Brian and Gray, as with them both working together and needing to hide their relationship, he didn't have much of a support system, and couldn't talk to workmates. I do like the friendship that has struck up between the teammates by the end of the book and I'm not convinced Perry doesn't know.
I'm now looking forward to the next book here to see where they go next
I liked this one better than first one. It follows on directly from the previous book as the team are still recovering and coming to terms with what happened.
The new case is well done and I enjoyed how the team worked together to solve it. There was a heap of research and information gathering that pieced together the case, linking each victim one by one and so when the final piece came to the attention of the team they were ready to act.
I had an issue last book with the relationship and while I couldn't put my finger on it at the time, I think it was the power imbalance and the fact that Jon was just so agreeable. Yes he tried to make Tracey comfortable, and the relationship progressed so quickly but it didn't seem real. This one sees them take a step back and actually date, which is good as they went from meeting to living together within a few weeks.
I also liked that Tracey spoke to people, Brian and Gray, as with them both working together and needing to hide their relationship, he didn't have much of a support system, and couldn't talk to workmates. I do like the friendship that has struck up between the teammates by the end of the book and I'm not convinced Perry doesn't know.
I'm now looking forward to the next book here to see where they go next
September 22, 2024
This is the second book of there series and the first book should be read to better understand since this book pretty much starts where the first book ended. Tracy is still dealing with the aftermath of the Family Man case with physical therapy and counseling due to nightmares. He is staying with Jon while he recovers since he can't drive and climb too many stairs. The two men are trying to dat while hiding their relationship at work which places stress on them both. Tracy is also stressing about informing his parents about Jon. Meanwhile that have a new case involving serial killer who is finding his victims on a hookup app that has disappearing messages. This book is more focused on Jon and Tracy's relationship and them each trying to navigate it and learning to better communicate with each other with less action involving this serial killer. I still really enjoyed the mystery of who the killer was and their motivations. I also enjoyed getting to see the MC's romance as it progressed and them finding ways to date and have friends that they could be open with since they had to hide their relationship at work. I'm already looking forwards to the next book in the series to see their relationship further progress and for each man to really be open about all their secrets.
September 24, 2024
After enjoying The Family Man, the first book in A.J. Rose’s The Mind Hacker series, I was left eager for more of the series. I was hooked by the mystery thriller element and fell deeply for the characters, which meant I went into The Phantom with high hopes.
While I adored The Phantom and found it to be a wonderful second book in the series, I will be honest and say that I did not find it as intense as the first book. That is not to say it was a bad book - far from it - but this one did feel lighter than the first in many ways. Despite this, there was plenty to keep me engaged throughout. The mystery contained many elements that were interesting to explore, and I was deeply invested in watching how each of the elements would play out. My investment in how things would develop between the main characters was even deeper, and I loved watching them grow. Without a doubt, this was a wonderful addition, and it leaves the reader eager to see what comes next. While some of the elements feel a little cliched, I have high hopes of them coming together in an explosive manner.
All in all, this was a wonderful second book. It pulled me deeper into the series and has once again left me eager for more. I cannot wait to see what book three offers.
While I adored The Phantom and found it to be a wonderful second book in the series, I will be honest and say that I did not find it as intense as the first book. That is not to say it was a bad book - far from it - but this one did feel lighter than the first in many ways. Despite this, there was plenty to keep me engaged throughout. The mystery contained many elements that were interesting to explore, and I was deeply invested in watching how each of the elements would play out. My investment in how things would develop between the main characters was even deeper, and I loved watching them grow. Without a doubt, this was a wonderful addition, and it leaves the reader eager to see what comes next. While some of the elements feel a little cliched, I have high hopes of them coming together in an explosive manner.
All in all, this was a wonderful second book. It pulled me deeper into the series and has once again left me eager for more. I cannot wait to see what book three offers.
October 7, 2024
The Phantom is the second book in the Mind Hacker series. Please note that this is not a standalone and should be read after The Family Man.
FBI Special Agent Tracey Smith and Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson become embroiled in another complex case.
The author's writing style is wonderfully polished, has crisp dialog and the author describes everything very vividly, so that as a reader you quickly become immersed in this exciting story.
The police are chasing a phantom that flies under the radar of victims and law enforcement alike, while also exploring the private lives of the agents.
The police investigations and approaches are described in detail and I found the process very realistic. It was a pleasure to put the puzzle together piece by piece with Jon and Tracy.
The characters are well characterized. There is a complicated romance with hot scenes as well as kink elements, violent crimes and interesting investigative work, lots of emotion and suspense.
I found the story captivating and entertaining and I'm already looking forward to the next volume, or preferably the next volumes!
FBI Special Agent Tracey Smith and Supervisory Special Agent Jon Anderson become embroiled in another complex case.
The author's writing style is wonderfully polished, has crisp dialog and the author describes everything very vividly, so that as a reader you quickly become immersed in this exciting story.
The police are chasing a phantom that flies under the radar of victims and law enforcement alike, while also exploring the private lives of the agents.
The police investigations and approaches are described in detail and I found the process very realistic. It was a pleasure to put the puzzle together piece by piece with Jon and Tracy.
The characters are well characterized. There is a complicated romance with hot scenes as well as kink elements, violent crimes and interesting investigative work, lots of emotion and suspense.
I found the story captivating and entertaining and I'm already looking forward to the next volume, or preferably the next volumes!
August 11, 2025
AJ Rose's attention to detail and definitive writing style has a way of putting you right into the story. I feel like I am "threre" instead of being an outside observer. A smart, illusive serial killer is leaving a trail of bodies across several states and giving BA Unit 4 little to go on no matter how many threads they pull. There's a common thread among the murder victims and once they discover it events evolve quickly. But the main focus of this story is the developing relationship between Jon and Tracey. They're new and have moved rather quickly; going from attraction to living together almost immediately though the reasoning behind that move are solid. Having to be on the down low at work is tiring. Tracey is also having to adjust to his new sexual reality and he is also finding that he has a bit of a jealous streak when it comes to Jon. Family dynamics cause a rift and call for some deep introspection. Jon's darker side is at full bore as he delves into the world on conversion therapy camps.
September 29, 2024
Solid Second Series Book
Jon and Tracey and the FBI BAU pick up just after the aftermath of The Family Man. Their personal relationship is developing and professionally they have another serial killer on their hands. One that needs profiling and stopping before more gay men are killed by a phantom that no one seems to see. There are multiple suspects but all roads lead back to one, or is that because it’s so personal for Jon?
The best parts of this book were the profiling and the work behind catching the killer. The lead up to finding them. I didn’t enjoy Tracey’s family situation. It felt like forced drama and while I get parallels being drawn between the case and coming out, poor family reactions, etc., I could have done without it.
Blog review at-
Jon and Tracey and the FBI BAU pick up just after the aftermath of The Family Man. Their personal relationship is developing and professionally they have another serial killer on their hands. One that needs profiling and stopping before more gay men are killed by a phantom that no one seems to see. There are multiple suspects but all roads lead back to one, or is that because it’s so personal for Jon?
The best parts of this book were the profiling and the work behind catching the killer. The lead up to finding them. I didn’t enjoy Tracey’s family situation. It felt like forced drama and while I get parallels being drawn between the case and coming out, poor family reactions, etc., I could have done without it.
Blog review at-
September 26, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The Phantom is the second book in the A.J. Rose’s Mind Hacker series and it picks up shortly after the events of book one, The Family Man. This story deals with a new case, but follows the same couple in Jon and Tracey. So you could probably start here, but you would miss the early stages of their relationship, as well as some of the set up of the team dynamics.
The men are at an interesting point in their relationship, having only been together a very short time, but already living together due to Tracey’s injury. So they are a new couple, but at the same time, things have moved forward for them really quickly and both men are still sort of catching up.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The Phantom is the second book in the A.J. Rose’s Mind Hacker series and it picks up shortly after the events of book one, The Family Man. This story deals with a new case, but follows the same couple in Jon and Tracey. So you could probably start here, but you would miss the early stages of their relationship, as well as some of the set up of the team dynamics.
The men are at an interesting point in their relationship, having only been together a very short time, but already living together due to Tracey’s injury. So they are a new couple, but at the same time, things have moved forward for them really quickly and both men are still sort of catching up.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 14, 2024
Special Agent Tracey Smith is recovering from a gunshot wound from his last case while staying at his partner Jon Anderson's place. He and his partner/lover draw a new case in Washington DC tied to a Chicago case. It's a murder involving drugs. I love the chemistry, trust and attraction between Tracey and Jon and the rapport with their co-workers. The cases and the Behavior Analysis info is fascinating and absorbing. In this second book you find excellent writing, character development, a deepening personal relationship and an interesting plot that holds your attention. It's as good a book as the first one. I love this series. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my voluntary opinion.
September 15, 2024
Book two is about Tracey and Jon, FBI men and their new case. While Tracey is Jon's protege, at home they are boyfriends, but they have to work to keep that hidden.Jon is ready for the world to know and while the first book was more about the mystery case. This one is more focused on their relationship and romance than the actual FBI work case. It is a great follow up to add more content. Be forewarned of many trigger possibilities--sexual assault, violence and. more. I love this complicated couple as well as their coworkers. I am so ready for book three to see what happens next.. A great book showing the complexities of being in love and working together. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
September 16, 2024
Book two in this series about Jon and Tracey, FBI agents with the Behavioral Analyst unit, follows them in their relationship as they work on finding a serial killer of gay men. Tracy has a lot on his plate; new at the FBI BAU, newly out, and recovering from an injury from their last case. But he wants to make this relationship work. Jon, is struggling with being in a relationship again and knowing when to share some of his bigger secrets. As their team works to put all the pieces together to find the serial killer before it's too late Jon and Tracey work to keep their new relationship building so it does not crash and burn. I am loving this series, the characters are strong and the storylines are riveting.
September 24, 2024
This is the second book of the mind hacker series and is definitely better if read in order, we are back again with Tracey and Jon. Tracey is recovering from the gunshot wound he received in book one when they are called up to investigate another case and the story has plenty of action and mystery but is focused more on Tracey and Jon’s relationship, I wasn’t a fan of how Jon blindsided Tracey about his best friend Brian but thought the situation was handled well with communication and although they were trying to keep their relationship a secret at work I liked how it was dealt with when brought up as well, looking forward to what comes next in this series and for Tracey and Jon in their relationship.
September 25, 2024
This is a great new instalment in this author's new series. If you need a reminder - it's the author of amazing Power exchange series and she's back!
There's a new serial killer case this team has to tackle and especially for Tracey is hard to balance between workload, his slowly healing injury and new and for several reasons complicated relationship with Jon. The author found a perfect balance between alI of the above and once again this is a read that's hard to put down. I guess there's no need to say that this can't be read as a standalone - although each book deals with a new case, the relationships are changing and developing , some secrets are still waiting to be revealed.
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
There's a new serial killer case this team has to tackle and especially for Tracey is hard to balance between workload, his slowly healing injury and new and for several reasons complicated relationship with Jon. The author found a perfect balance between alI of the above and once again this is a read that's hard to put down. I guess there's no need to say that this can't be read as a standalone - although each book deals with a new case, the relationships are changing and developing , some secrets are still waiting to be revealed.
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
September 13, 2024
FBI profiler romance is one of my favorite genres (though I realize it perpetuates copaganda and I should probably try to wean myself off it). I'm definitely enjoying this series and look forward to seeing where it goes. I found this book less gripping/intense than the first (), and I thought the MCs were awfully cavalier about taking risks around their relationship being exposed. Despite those issues, I'll gladly look forward to book three.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
September 24, 2024
Tracey and Jon return here, balancing the dynamics of their evolving romance with the intensity of their work (gentle note that it’s a good idea, as this is a series, to start with book one before diving into this one, if you haven’t already). These are deeply interesting characters, and the forbidden romance elements as well as the dangerous nature of what they do and the complexity of who they are as people (subtle eyebrow raise at Jon, who…is prone to making questionable decisions) all add up to an immersive reading experience– it’s easy to want to see what happens for them, and to them, next.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 1, 2024
The author writes a chilling serial killer story that's plenty dark and grim and could stand alone without the romance. The fact that Rose can also give us that relationship as well without either detracting from the other makes for a great read. Jon and Tracey have both a work relationship with a power differential in it and a personal relationship that they keep hidden because of work. The fact that their temperaments are different, the stress of the serial killer case and the strain from keeping their relationship a secret all combine to provide angst and obstacles to them achieving their HEA. An excellent sequel to the first book.
September 15, 2024
As good as expected
I'm enjoying the various aspects of these books as in the criminal investigation, the teamwork, and inter-agency relationships and personal interactions with family and friends. In addition, we have the burgeoning relationship between our two leads. The development is realistic, albeit at odds with both their characters, due to the illicitness of it. I look forward to what I'm sure are future books in the series as no way could things be left right there, AJ Rose surely wouldn't be so cruel!
I'm enjoying the various aspects of these books as in the criminal investigation, the teamwork, and inter-agency relationships and personal interactions with family and friends. In addition, we have the burgeoning relationship between our two leads. The development is realistic, albeit at odds with both their characters, due to the illicitness of it. I look forward to what I'm sure are future books in the series as no way could things be left right there, AJ Rose surely wouldn't be so cruel!
September 19, 2024
This series is quickly becoming one of my all time favorites - I cannot get enough! Jon and Tracey are such amazing characters and getting to know Tracey better in this book was such a treat. The struggles of their relationship, the demands of their jobs, the stresses of outside life - all of these aspects bring them together as much as they try to drive them apart. I love the law enforcement aspect of the books, the behavioral analysis of the darkest characters put into their path - lets be honest, I just love every single thing about this series, the characters, and how much it plays with my emotions! I literally cannot get enough and I can't wait for the next in the series!!
September 23, 2024
Got up to 35%, and I was seriously considering calling it a day. Plodding along with not a lot happening, then Tracey and Jon finally got a break. I have to say I did sorta guess the murderer's profession from the Smoldr tag he was using, and was surprised that Unit D didn't until it was nearly too late. Hope Curtis Donnelly finds someone else to love in the future, and thought the drama with Tracey's mum was a tad unnecessary. 3.5 stars rounded up.
September 25, 2024
This was another great installment in this series. I love the mystery and crime aspect, especially the BAU. I think Rose does a great job bringing the mystery to life and keeping the reader engaged and interested throughout. I also appreciate that the romance is fade to black. It's refreshing to focus on the plot and less on the romance. The romance is believable and not over the top. I look forward to continuing this series.
October 3, 2024
I loved the first book, and I am happy to report. The second is as good.
Here, the focus lies more on the relationship, which is a good thing in my opinion, as it gives us a better foundation for future books 😉
We will see how they cope with the still existing secrets. But, realistically, a relationship needs time, and no one would discuss all their secrets immediately
Nevertheless, the mystery part is still good, and I thoroughly enjoyed it
I am looking forward to the next book
Here, the focus lies more on the relationship, which is a good thing in my opinion, as it gives us a better foundation for future books 😉
We will see how they cope with the still existing secrets. But, realistically, a relationship needs time, and no one would discuss all their secrets immediately
Nevertheless, the mystery part is still good, and I thoroughly enjoyed it
I am looking forward to the next book
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