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FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D. #1
The Fifth Victim
Across the Pacific Northwest, a twisted killer stalks victims representing ancient The Ruler. The Warrior. The Scholar. The Priest. Four are dead, leaving FBI investigators puzzled by the macabre, color-coded shrines the killer left behind.And clues now point to a fifth victim.
With only two weeks until retirement, seasoned FBI Agent Claire Anderson is desperately trying to balance her work and complex home life when she's called in for one last lead a special task force to hunt down the enigmatic "Color Killer."That task force is the FBI's Special-Washington-Oregon-Regional-Detachment—nicknamed S.W.O.R.D. Now, Claire must marshal the talents of an eclectic crew of agents, including a brilliant criminal psychologist, a street-savvy undercover prodigy, a rugged covert-ops specialist, and a quirky tech savant.
Pursuing the killer through the rain-soaked streets and deep forests of the Pacific Northwest, the men and women of S.W.O.R.D. must delve into an ancient lost religion, its shocking view of life and death, and the dark mind of a cunning psychopath. But when clues start intertwining with Claire's own life, she realizes she’s up against a predator who's always one step ahead.The fifth victim is closer than she ever imagined.
Dive into Book 1 of the blockbuster new FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D Series by D.D. Black, author of the #1 international bestselling series, The Thomas Austin Crime Thrillers.Praise from early "⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I've never read about a serial killer this strange, this interesting. And I've never rooted so hard for a group of FBI agents—they're relatable, complex individuals who felt real on every page. Even the golden retriever had an amazing backstory! I couldn't read The Fifth Victim fast enough, and I can't wait for the next installment.""⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ As good as his Thomas Austin novels, maybe even better.""⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great use of the Pacific Northwest setting, great characters, and a murder case both psychologically and philosophically fascinating. This is a one of the most enjoyable, satisfying mystery novels I've ever read."Series 1: The Fifth VictimBook 2: We Forget Nothing
With only two weeks until retirement, seasoned FBI Agent Claire Anderson is desperately trying to balance her work and complex home life when she's called in for one last lead a special task force to hunt down the enigmatic "Color Killer."That task force is the FBI's Special-Washington-Oregon-Regional-Detachment—nicknamed S.W.O.R.D. Now, Claire must marshal the talents of an eclectic crew of agents, including a brilliant criminal psychologist, a street-savvy undercover prodigy, a rugged covert-ops specialist, and a quirky tech savant.
Pursuing the killer through the rain-soaked streets and deep forests of the Pacific Northwest, the men and women of S.W.O.R.D. must delve into an ancient lost religion, its shocking view of life and death, and the dark mind of a cunning psychopath. But when clues start intertwining with Claire's own life, she realizes she’s up against a predator who's always one step ahead.The fifth victim is closer than she ever imagined.
Dive into Book 1 of the blockbuster new FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D Series by D.D. Black, author of the #1 international bestselling series, The Thomas Austin Crime Thrillers.Praise from early "⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I've never read about a serial killer this strange, this interesting. And I've never rooted so hard for a group of FBI agents—they're relatable, complex individuals who felt real on every page. Even the golden retriever had an amazing backstory! I couldn't read The Fifth Victim fast enough, and I can't wait for the next installment.""⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ As good as his Thomas Austin novels, maybe even better.""⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great use of the Pacific Northwest setting, great characters, and a murder case both psychologically and philosophically fascinating. This is a one of the most enjoyable, satisfying mystery novels I've ever read."Series 1: The Fifth VictimBook 2: We Forget Nothing
294 pages, Paperback
First published March 28, 2024
4204 people are currently reading
2529 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
June 4, 2024
Good not completely different
The story was a low key mystery with a deranged villain. The idea was really good, the characters were fairly likable, and the plot loosely reminded me of a James Patterson or Andrea Kane book. And that is a good thing. I liked Claire and her approach to solving a crime. However, in her haste to retire her final case, the mystery almost took a familial toll. The story was my first by this author, and I will likely give him another try.
The story was a low key mystery with a deranged villain. The idea was really good, the characters were fairly likable, and the plot loosely reminded me of a James Patterson or Andrea Kane book. And that is a good thing. I liked Claire and her approach to solving a crime. However, in her haste to retire her final case, the mystery almost took a familial toll. The story was my first by this author, and I will likely give him another try.
July 20, 2024
An original story line and an entertaining read. I enjoyed the character dynamic of the FBI team. The main character did come off a little weak for the role she filled. Otherwise a good read.
April 15, 2024
The story line & plot are unique and captivating in this DD Black novel. But the FBI team characters left me disappointed. They were less than professional and made to look juvenile and unsophisticated at different times throughout the story. The team's leader Claire, showed weak, unsuitable behaviors & thought processes at times.. most notable when dealing with the personalities of her team
members. An example of this is her nosiness in the personal / sexual attractions of Violet to Jack to Kiko.. and her ongoing fighting with and criticism of Fitz.
She shouldn't to be the "mother" of her FBI team. She should be a determined, firm, intelligent yet dispassionate FBI Leader.
I do like DD Black's other series. But not this one.
Not 4 Stars.. only 3.5 Stars.
members. An example of this is her nosiness in the personal / sexual attractions of Violet to Jack to Kiko.. and her ongoing fighting with and criticism of Fitz.
She shouldn't to be the "mother" of her FBI team. She should be a determined, firm, intelligent yet dispassionate FBI Leader.
I do like DD Black's other series. But not this one.
Not 4 Stars.. only 3.5 Stars.
March 13, 2025
There are too many characters but the author does an excellent job of making the story work without getting too bogged down with long-winded background details or awkward dialogue with too many people talking.
You'll meet Claire, the perfectionist leader of the special FBI team; Fitz, a genius Brit and recovering addict; Jack, a brash cowboy; Violet, a computer whiz; and Kiko, a talented young actress.
Claire is only a few days away from retirement but her boss talks her into accepting one last case, one that she knows will be extremely difficult and the kind that will likely stick with her for a long time.
Claire assembles her team, which she believes has the skills necessary to stop an elusive serial killer who has an affinity for primary colors and beliefs associated with an ancient religion. Victims are poisoned and left in rooms painted in varying colors with messages left in an unknown language of ancient origin.
The story cruises along as the team gathers information as quickly as possible in hopes of preventing the next killing. Team members banter and interact in interesting ways.
The story takes a farfetched turn, however, when the killer suddenly changes plans and the danger becomes personal for Claire. The deviation feels clumsy and doesn't match the killer’s previous highly organized behavior.
You'll meet Claire, the perfectionist leader of the special FBI team; Fitz, a genius Brit and recovering addict; Jack, a brash cowboy; Violet, a computer whiz; and Kiko, a talented young actress.
Claire is only a few days away from retirement but her boss talks her into accepting one last case, one that she knows will be extremely difficult and the kind that will likely stick with her for a long time.
Claire assembles her team, which she believes has the skills necessary to stop an elusive serial killer who has an affinity for primary colors and beliefs associated with an ancient religion. Victims are poisoned and left in rooms painted in varying colors with messages left in an unknown language of ancient origin.
The story cruises along as the team gathers information as quickly as possible in hopes of preventing the next killing. Team members banter and interact in interesting ways.
The story takes a farfetched turn, however, when the killer suddenly changes plans and the danger becomes personal for Claire. The deviation feels clumsy and doesn't match the killer’s previous highly organized behavior.
December 23, 2025
I tried to like this book, but I just could not get into any of the characters except for Benny, and Ranger the dog. All the adults including the main character did not resonate with me. I just couldn't connect to any of them. The basic plot of the book was solid, but the delivery was tainted by boredom for me. I was determined to finish it and I did, taking much longer than I normally spend on a book. This was the first book I've read by this author and I was really looking forward to reading it. Sadly, it wasn't as good as I expected. Will I read anything else by him, probably, but not anytime soon.
April 11, 2025
First in a series, detective novel. Interesting and slightly complicated characters, i love the storyline about Claire’s son.
July 20, 2024
The Fifth Victim.
By D.D. Black.
My review.
Across the Pacific Northwest, a twisted killer stalks victims representing ancient archetypes: The Ruler. The Warrior. The Scholar. The Priest. Four are dead, leaving FBI investigators puzzled by the macabre, color-coded shrines the killer left behind.
And clues now point to a fifth victim.
With early retirement literally just round the corner experienced FBI agent Claire Anderson has one eye on the door already, looking forward to living an easier life, relaxing in her garden, writing and spending time with her young son.
But you don't always get what you want and she is called in for one last job, to find a serial killer by the name of the 'Colour Killer'.
She is to head up a newly formed task force, nicknamed SWORD, the group is an eclectic mix of characters including a brilliant criminal phycologist, a tech genius, a covert-ops expert, and an undercover prodigy. Oh and let's not forget the teams Dog!
This is a fast paced thriller, reminiscent of a James Patterson story. It also reminded me a fair bit of Criminal Minds with the team dynamics and I will be really interested to see how the group will grow together. The plot is clever, the serial killers reasoning is suitably esoteric as to keep both the reader and the team on their toes... What action there is mainly comes towards the end of the book as the pace gathers speed nicely and it is handled well. The characters are very intriguing and while on the face of it standard fare I sense hidden depths and I look forward to learning more about the individuals as the series progress. Standouts for me were Fitz the brilliant but incredibly flawed criminal phycologist and Benny Claire's twelve year old special needs son, who is written with both wit and sensitivity. And of course Ranger the nose Blind FBI dog...
All in all a very good read that kept my interest and I will definitely be returning to the series.
By D.D. Black.
My review.
Across the Pacific Northwest, a twisted killer stalks victims representing ancient archetypes: The Ruler. The Warrior. The Scholar. The Priest. Four are dead, leaving FBI investigators puzzled by the macabre, color-coded shrines the killer left behind.
And clues now point to a fifth victim.
With early retirement literally just round the corner experienced FBI agent Claire Anderson has one eye on the door already, looking forward to living an easier life, relaxing in her garden, writing and spending time with her young son.
But you don't always get what you want and she is called in for one last job, to find a serial killer by the name of the 'Colour Killer'.
She is to head up a newly formed task force, nicknamed SWORD, the group is an eclectic mix of characters including a brilliant criminal phycologist, a tech genius, a covert-ops expert, and an undercover prodigy. Oh and let's not forget the teams Dog!
This is a fast paced thriller, reminiscent of a James Patterson story. It also reminded me a fair bit of Criminal Minds with the team dynamics and I will be really interested to see how the group will grow together. The plot is clever, the serial killers reasoning is suitably esoteric as to keep both the reader and the team on their toes... What action there is mainly comes towards the end of the book as the pace gathers speed nicely and it is handled well. The characters are very intriguing and while on the face of it standard fare I sense hidden depths and I look forward to learning more about the individuals as the series progress. Standouts for me were Fitz the brilliant but incredibly flawed criminal phycologist and Benny Claire's twelve year old special needs son, who is written with both wit and sensitivity. And of course Ranger the nose Blind FBI dog...
All in all a very good read that kept my interest and I will definitely be returning to the series.
April 4, 2024
Review of the Fifth Victim by DD Black.
Did you know that someone can embody a color that accompanies their brilliance, or their innocence or yet another prominent aspect of their personality? The Gatherer of Light certainly believed that and sought to ensure that a desired light could be transferred from that person to the Gatherer.
Fifth Victim is a tale that speaks of the Gatherer’s desire to become whole by absorbing the colors of others, by any means necessary. It is the “by any means necessary”, that presents the problem.
DD Black has written this tale of a cult-like belief, derived from ancient texts, and done so with the cleverness and talent that he has, yet again, demonstrated as a mystery writer. His characters are so well developed that the reader will often forget that that person is not actually known to them, other than in the literary sense.
This is a thriller, a mystery that tells a most unusual story, introduces us to some new characters and keeps the reader reading past bedtime. If you have read other of Black’s stories, I am sure that you will enjoy this one. If you have not read more of this author’s books, you are in for a treat. I highly recommend this story.
Fritzi Redgrave
Did you know that someone can embody a color that accompanies their brilliance, or their innocence or yet another prominent aspect of their personality? The Gatherer of Light certainly believed that and sought to ensure that a desired light could be transferred from that person to the Gatherer.
Fifth Victim is a tale that speaks of the Gatherer’s desire to become whole by absorbing the colors of others, by any means necessary. It is the “by any means necessary”, that presents the problem.
DD Black has written this tale of a cult-like belief, derived from ancient texts, and done so with the cleverness and talent that he has, yet again, demonstrated as a mystery writer. His characters are so well developed that the reader will often forget that that person is not actually known to them, other than in the literary sense.
This is a thriller, a mystery that tells a most unusual story, introduces us to some new characters and keeps the reader reading past bedtime. If you have read other of Black’s stories, I am sure that you will enjoy this one. If you have not read more of this author’s books, you are in for a treat. I highly recommend this story.
Fritzi Redgrave
Read
April 6, 2024I am fearful of all these 4 star reviews with no ‘review’ and all just days old.
January 10, 2025
Book 1 5th Victim by D.D. Black is the beginning of a new series about a special FBI Task Force headed by Claire Anderson. Three bodies turn up with a glyph written on the wall in a room where everything is one color. What does it all mean. The very intelligent, if obnoxious, English Fitz suggests it is an ancient language and this starts the search. The characters are magnetic and will be in each book including Ranger, the Golden Retriever. It is a gripping read and you’ll love it.
May 16, 2024
Dnf, knew where it was going after the description of one of the characters. Extremely tropey. And all the new characters were exactly the same as the characters in the first book. They checked all the same boxes. Sigh. It would be nice to find an intellectually satisfying thriller one of these days.
July 3, 2024
Wow..just wow
After seeing this series advertised on my social media feeds, I decided to give it a go. I'll be honest, I'd never heard of the author D.D Black, but I can assure you, I will be reading more. I can safely say that D.D. Black, you are now my my favourite writer.
Split into 3 parts, where the first part focuses on highly vivid character descriptions. Making me feel as though I knew the various investigators of a cold blooded serial killer. 'The Color Killer' had already struck 3 times when Claire, supervisory special agent at the FBI Field Office in Seattle, was assigned the case, albeit reluctantly. Weeks from retirement, she really didn't want one of "those cases." Then another victim, same M.O and same killer. They know there will be 5 victims. The Scholar, The Ruler, The Preist, The Warrior, and Who? Who's next
The second part focuses on trying to figure out who the Fifth Victim will be. The vivid descriptives continue, giving more insight into each character and they way their mind works. Giving them a role in the team and making you feel part of that team, and I must say, my favourite is definitely Fitz.
Part 3. The pursuit. Trying to catch this ruthless, ritualistic killer before they strike again with the Fifth Victim.
Fast paced, tense, and a fitting ending to Book 1 in the "FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D Series I'd definitely recommend this to any thriller/crime reader. Go and read it. Do it! You won't regret it! Now, I'm off to read book 2!
After seeing this series advertised on my social media feeds, I decided to give it a go. I'll be honest, I'd never heard of the author D.D Black, but I can assure you, I will be reading more. I can safely say that D.D. Black, you are now my my favourite writer.
Split into 3 parts, where the first part focuses on highly vivid character descriptions. Making me feel as though I knew the various investigators of a cold blooded serial killer. 'The Color Killer' had already struck 3 times when Claire, supervisory special agent at the FBI Field Office in Seattle, was assigned the case, albeit reluctantly. Weeks from retirement, she really didn't want one of "those cases." Then another victim, same M.O and same killer. They know there will be 5 victims. The Scholar, The Ruler, The Preist, The Warrior, and Who? Who's next
The second part focuses on trying to figure out who the Fifth Victim will be. The vivid descriptives continue, giving more insight into each character and they way their mind works. Giving them a role in the team and making you feel part of that team, and I must say, my favourite is definitely Fitz.
Part 3. The pursuit. Trying to catch this ruthless, ritualistic killer before they strike again with the Fifth Victim.
Fast paced, tense, and a fitting ending to Book 1 in the "FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D Series I'd definitely recommend this to any thriller/crime reader. Go and read it. Do it! You won't regret it! Now, I'm off to read book 2!
March 31, 2024
I adore books where I learn a lot of new things, especially tech and arcane things, and this one satisfied!!! The esoteric motivation behind the crime spree was intriguing, a lot because it is possible. The pace kept me nearly flipping pages and the story never flagged.
An FBI team with no stuffed shirts, led by a woman-Mom. I’m used to how the FBI shows up and tramples local law enforcement, usually with horrendous attitude issues. This 3-woman/2-man team is different, and not only because they have a lovable dog. They’re quirky, they’re connected, they’re really smart, and they have one purpose—get the murderer NOW.
The book is so well written that just reading the sentences is a pleasure and the fact that they all carry a piece of the weight of the story makes this one of the most readable books I’ve enjoyed recently.
A standout example of the stretch that the murder mystery genre can pull, offering readers a tantalizing blend of suspense, intrigue, and expertly crafted detective work, this first in a new series sets a high bar.
The FBI team at the heart of the story is deeply relatable, making their pursuit of justice all the more compelling. A deftly woven plot and unexpected twists make this a must-read that left me craving more—I hope the next book comes soon!!
An FBI team with no stuffed shirts, led by a woman-Mom. I’m used to how the FBI shows up and tramples local law enforcement, usually with horrendous attitude issues. This 3-woman/2-man team is different, and not only because they have a lovable dog. They’re quirky, they’re connected, they’re really smart, and they have one purpose—get the murderer NOW.
The book is so well written that just reading the sentences is a pleasure and the fact that they all carry a piece of the weight of the story makes this one of the most readable books I’ve enjoyed recently.
A standout example of the stretch that the murder mystery genre can pull, offering readers a tantalizing blend of suspense, intrigue, and expertly crafted detective work, this first in a new series sets a high bar.
The FBI team at the heart of the story is deeply relatable, making their pursuit of justice all the more compelling. A deftly woven plot and unexpected twists make this a must-read that left me craving more—I hope the next book comes soon!!
March 22, 2025
3.5?
Read this bc I’m going to an author event by DD Black and hadn’t ever read anything of his. I wanted to give it a shot as a local author in a place I currently live, plus to know his stuff before I go.
It was a decent story. I don’t remember the last time I read a crime novel and they’re not my favorite genre but this one wasn’t graphic, just a little creepy when/if you think about the serial killings. But most of the story is the investigative work and I enjoyed that. It was pretty typical - like watching a show on TV - but I liked that I know where all the locations are that they were referencing, that I’ve taken the same ferries and traveled the same roads in the Seattle metro/puget sound/ Olympic Peninsula. I’ve even recently been to Spokane and Coeur d’Alene which are featured too. I like the characters so far and that he seems to be trying to give them as much if not more of his attention than the actual crimes. It’s character driven but they their work. I liked it enough to give the second one a try but we’ll see how long I last in this genre as non-killing books are much more to my liking.
Read this bc I’m going to an author event by DD Black and hadn’t ever read anything of his. I wanted to give it a shot as a local author in a place I currently live, plus to know his stuff before I go.
It was a decent story. I don’t remember the last time I read a crime novel and they’re not my favorite genre but this one wasn’t graphic, just a little creepy when/if you think about the serial killings. But most of the story is the investigative work and I enjoyed that. It was pretty typical - like watching a show on TV - but I liked that I know where all the locations are that they were referencing, that I’ve taken the same ferries and traveled the same roads in the Seattle metro/puget sound/ Olympic Peninsula. I’ve even recently been to Spokane and Coeur d’Alene which are featured too. I like the characters so far and that he seems to be trying to give them as much if not more of his attention than the actual crimes. It’s character driven but they their work. I liked it enough to give the second one a try but we’ll see how long I last in this genre as non-killing books are much more to my liking.
March 3, 2025
A different kind of murder mystery!
I chose the Fifth Victim with some trepidation, because the overview was a little weird! I was pleasantly surprised that my misgivings were over shadowed by a unique plotline!
While still essentially a serial killer mystery, the ancient and mysterious "religion" is very different! The mumbo-jumbo is preposterous and theoreticly philosophical!
The "team" of Claire, Jack, Fitz, Violet and Kiko have very different strengths and personality "quirks" that make it fun! They are unlike any law enforcement team you've ever encountered! Chippy, arrogant, disagreeable and unpleasant at times, they also pull together when necessary to focus on the case! They make the storyline fun and exciting!
I personally dislike excessive rumination and self-doubt, so I tend to get bored when it drones on! Sill, it's important that characters challenge and evaluate their choices, motivations and situations!
I was happily surprised by how much I really enjoyed this plotline and even the pycho-babble!
I look forward to the next book in the series!
I chose the Fifth Victim with some trepidation, because the overview was a little weird! I was pleasantly surprised that my misgivings were over shadowed by a unique plotline!
While still essentially a serial killer mystery, the ancient and mysterious "religion" is very different! The mumbo-jumbo is preposterous and theoreticly philosophical!
The "team" of Claire, Jack, Fitz, Violet and Kiko have very different strengths and personality "quirks" that make it fun! They are unlike any law enforcement team you've ever encountered! Chippy, arrogant, disagreeable and unpleasant at times, they also pull together when necessary to focus on the case! They make the storyline fun and exciting!
I personally dislike excessive rumination and self-doubt, so I tend to get bored when it drones on! Sill, it's important that characters challenge and evaluate their choices, motivations and situations!
I was happily surprised by how much I really enjoyed this plotline and even the pycho-babble!
I look forward to the next book in the series!
April 7, 2024
D. D. Black doesn’t disappoint…
I have yet to pick up one of his novels and not be intrigued – with excellent writing, and interesting and charismatic characters being portrayed in a plot that is intellectually conceived.
Frankly, a mystery that comes with depth, enjoyable banter and suspenseful themes spoils any interest I might have in reading a so-called “cozy”. They just cannot hold a candle to a quality read such as this. Cozies have their place, I suppose, for a much lighter read but I take my time to read more seriously and prefer to enjoy stories that give me pause to think, feel and react to different ideas and experiences that are presented in a novel.
Like I said, D.D. Black doesn’t disappoint. I look forward to the solving of more cases with this real and colorful team of personas dedicated to fighting crime…I am grateful for the opportunity to read and to offer my honest and voluntary review.
I have yet to pick up one of his novels and not be intrigued – with excellent writing, and interesting and charismatic characters being portrayed in a plot that is intellectually conceived.
Frankly, a mystery that comes with depth, enjoyable banter and suspenseful themes spoils any interest I might have in reading a so-called “cozy”. They just cannot hold a candle to a quality read such as this. Cozies have their place, I suppose, for a much lighter read but I take my time to read more seriously and prefer to enjoy stories that give me pause to think, feel and react to different ideas and experiences that are presented in a novel.
Like I said, D.D. Black doesn’t disappoint. I look forward to the solving of more cases with this real and colorful team of personas dedicated to fighting crime…I am grateful for the opportunity to read and to offer my honest and voluntary review.
July 19, 2024
A Psychological Murder Mystery with a Spiritual Twist
I was captivated by the book cover, started to read the narrative, and was hooked. The compelling, all-inclusive, and attention-grabbing characters, each with flaws and expertise, kept the story a page-turner. I enjoyed the tough and well-informed women characters: FBI Claire Anderson who has reservations about taking on a murder case, Special Agent Nancy McNamara, a Special Agent in Oregon, Violet Wei a technical analyst, and Vivian Greene (Kiko) who has the gift to blend in various situations. The dialogue between the male players, Fitzgerald Pembroke, an arrogant profiler, and Jack Russo, a whippersnapper, add more drama and sometimes wit to the storyline, where it slowly becomes a cat-and-mouse game, where things are not always what they appear to be. I am looking forward to reading more from this extraordinary storyteller.
I was captivated by the book cover, started to read the narrative, and was hooked. The compelling, all-inclusive, and attention-grabbing characters, each with flaws and expertise, kept the story a page-turner. I enjoyed the tough and well-informed women characters: FBI Claire Anderson who has reservations about taking on a murder case, Special Agent Nancy McNamara, a Special Agent in Oregon, Violet Wei a technical analyst, and Vivian Greene (Kiko) who has the gift to blend in various situations. The dialogue between the male players, Fitzgerald Pembroke, an arrogant profiler, and Jack Russo, a whippersnapper, add more drama and sometimes wit to the storyline, where it slowly becomes a cat-and-mouse game, where things are not always what they appear to be. I am looking forward to reading more from this extraordinary storyteller.
April 2, 2024
This is the first of a start of an amazing new series about FBI Agent Claire Anderson. She only has 10 more days, and then she will officially retire from the FBI. She wants to spend time home with her son, Benny. She is now divorced and will enjoy taking time to do the things she loves instead of hunting down serial killers.
But, there is one more case for Claire. At first, she refuses to work it as she doesn't feel she has time and she is going to retire, but the serial killer they need her to find has left 4 dead and one of this is someone that was a friend to Claire. With a new crew, who you will love, and the introduction of a lovable Lab Retriever, Ranger, you will be on a roller coaster ride to the finish.
Can't wait until the 2nd one comes out!
But, there is one more case for Claire. At first, she refuses to work it as she doesn't feel she has time and she is going to retire, but the serial killer they need her to find has left 4 dead and one of this is someone that was a friend to Claire. With a new crew, who you will love, and the introduction of a lovable Lab Retriever, Ranger, you will be on a roller coaster ride to the finish.
Can't wait until the 2nd one comes out!
April 16, 2024
The Fifth Victim
It was better than average. I just couldn’t get involved with any of the characters. The main character is primarily waiting to retire in a few days. She has 2 daughters in college, that’s all we know about them - they don’t even have names. She has a special needs son at home that doesn’t act like a special needs child. He has his own website that he uses to make money off of.
The squad she has to work with is made up of 4 people, all of which are totally different and have their own personalities and problems. I don’t think the former pill addict would be FBI material. Don’t think the gung-ho agent, who ignores rules and laws would be around for long either. Not sure if I will read any more of the series.
It was better than average. I just couldn’t get involved with any of the characters. The main character is primarily waiting to retire in a few days. She has 2 daughters in college, that’s all we know about them - they don’t even have names. She has a special needs son at home that doesn’t act like a special needs child. He has his own website that he uses to make money off of.
The squad she has to work with is made up of 4 people, all of which are totally different and have their own personalities and problems. I don’t think the former pill addict would be FBI material. Don’t think the gung-ho agent, who ignores rules and laws would be around for long either. Not sure if I will read any more of the series.
August 20, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. This book again felt like watching Criminal Minds (or other procedurals), and could be a great TV show. I felt like the characters were well described and given good background stories (although a bit stereotypical) and I'm hoping the second book would expand on this a bit (especially on Jack, Violet, and Kiko). In the first book, we only saw Claire's and maybe a bit of Fitz's characters described more in depth. The case the team tried to solve was original and well made-up, but I knew from the beginning of the book who the 'fifth victim' was. Bit predictable for my liking and sometimes too slow. Looking forward to give the second book a shot and see where that leads.
December 17, 2025
HIGHLY recommend reading stead of audiobook for this title.
I almost gave up on this audiobook in favor of reading it myself. During the female narration, there was an incessant tapping or clicking sound in the background that drove me INSANE. The female narrator is also TERRIBLE at accents. The male narrator was super random as the entire book is in the third person. There appeared to be no rhyme or reason to alternating sections.
The story is your cliche ragtag team of misfits making a task force to catch a serial killer. I didn't find them particularly likeable or well developed. The villain and their concept was appropriately developed and piqued my interest. I'll give the second book a shot, but I am not hooked.
I almost gave up on this audiobook in favor of reading it myself. During the female narration, there was an incessant tapping or clicking sound in the background that drove me INSANE. The female narrator is also TERRIBLE at accents. The male narrator was super random as the entire book is in the third person. There appeared to be no rhyme or reason to alternating sections.
The story is your cliche ragtag team of misfits making a task force to catch a serial killer. I didn't find them particularly likeable or well developed. The villain and their concept was appropriately developed and piqued my interest. I'll give the second book a shot, but I am not hooked.
April 3, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this new series. The main character, Claire Anderson, was introduced in the most recent Thomas Austen book - The Silence at Mystery Bay. Claire is retiring from her FBI career in two weeks. She is tasked to lead an odd group to find the "color" killer. The case was very interesting with a unique serial killer. The five members of the team are captivating. It was interesting to get to know them. The Pacific Northwest setting is almost a character in the book. I found the case wrapped up in a satisfying manner. I would highly recommend this book to mystery lovers.
October 8, 2024
A mystery I read after two non fiction books that left me wanting one like this. An FBI team filled with colorful fun characters come upon a series of crimes surely committed by a serial killer. The scenes are brutal and color coded with symbolism which seems impossible to cipher. After the third murder this team is assigned to the case. Clues aren’t obvious and it takes excellent sleuthing and team work and a fourth murder before any clues show up. The murder are hard for the whole team. It took a twisted mind to come up with these. I read it because it was a NW writer who included Seattle, Spokane, Coeur D’Alene and other familiar areas. Kept me reading
March 25, 2025
Great FBI Psychological Thriller
How do you chase a serial killer that has quite a bit of the same qualities as you do? Yet the two of you are definitely not the same. Claire has been tasked with hunting down a serial killer, who is obsessed with an old religion. This religion has the belief that each person has a specific color, that can be obtained by killing that person and ascending to heaven. Claire also has just given notice of her retirement from the FBI. Will her team find the killer? Will she finally be able to retire? This book will definitely keep the reader on their toes, throughout the entire book.
How do you chase a serial killer that has quite a bit of the same qualities as you do? Yet the two of you are definitely not the same. Claire has been tasked with hunting down a serial killer, who is obsessed with an old religion. This religion has the belief that each person has a specific color, that can be obtained by killing that person and ascending to heaven. Claire also has just given notice of her retirement from the FBI. Will her team find the killer? Will she finally be able to retire? This book will definitely keep the reader on their toes, throughout the entire book.
June 23, 2025
Rainbow Dream Team
Oh WOW, my first D.D. Black read “The Fifth Victim (FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D. - Book 1) was EXCELLENT 🤩🫣 😰‼️This new task force was/is the quintessential Dream Team with rainbow 🌈 sprinkled assessments 😂🤣. … or lowkey profiling🧐Wait, what⁉️Ummm, a facetious comparison or something more sinister⁉️ Hmmm 🤔 💭, only time will reveal if there’s a subliminal inference or not. Meanwhile, this read was just what the fictional literary doctor ordered a new focus: Thrills, Chills & Spills on a steroids IV drip 📚‼️Can’t wait for book 2 of this series …Tomorrow 🤷🏾♀️🤭‼️
Oh WOW, my first D.D. Black read “The Fifth Victim (FBI Task Force S.W.O.R.D. - Book 1) was EXCELLENT 🤩🫣 😰‼️This new task force was/is the quintessential Dream Team with rainbow 🌈 sprinkled assessments 😂🤣. … or lowkey profiling🧐Wait, what⁉️Ummm, a facetious comparison or something more sinister⁉️ Hmmm 🤔 💭, only time will reveal if there’s a subliminal inference or not. Meanwhile, this read was just what the fictional literary doctor ordered a new focus: Thrills, Chills & Spills on a steroids IV drip 📚‼️Can’t wait for book 2 of this series …Tomorrow 🤷🏾♀️🤭‼️
April 10, 2024
I am a big fan of D D Black books and loved his first series so much. But this new one is absolutely fabulous as well and I’m looking forward to it continuing. A serial killer is on the loose and it’s up to FBI agent Claire Anderson and her team to figure out who it is. 4 victims are killed 5 days apart and they have to pull out all the stops to find the fifth victim before they too are killed. With an amazing story that had me doing little else today but read this book in a day! Highly recommend
April 19, 2024
The Fifth Victim is a heart-pounding thriller that grabs the reader by the throat and doesn't let go. There is suspense, action, and wonderful, multi-faceted characters. The story is compelling, engaging, thrilling, and everything the thriller fan looks for and much more. I am looking forward to getting to know these characters as well as I know the ones from the Thomas Austin series. The next book can't come out soon enough for me. In case you can't tell, I highly recommend this series.
I received a review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
I received a review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
April 29, 2024
D.D. Black has crafted another amazing first book in a series! I cannot wait to read the second one in the S.W.O.R.D series! I have been a big fan of him since I discovered the Thomas Austin series last year and have been trying to read everything he's ever written ☺️ I love the FBI task force he created for this book and am excited to learn more about each of the unique personalities and quirks for each of the 5 team members (and Ranger, their dog with the fun backstory) and see where their next case takes them!
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