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A Brit in the FBI #1
The Final Cut
From Catherine Coulter, the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of the FBI Thriller series, and J.T. Ellison, bestselling author and ITW Award winner, comes the first book in a brilliant new international thriller series featuring a new hero: American-born, UK-raised Nicholas Drummond.
Scotland Yard’s new chief inspector Nicholas Drummond is on the first flight to New York when he learns his colleague, Elaine York, the “minder” of the Crown Jewels for the “Jewel of the Lion” exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was found murdered. Then the centerpiece of the exhibit, the infamous Koh-i-Noor Diamond, is stolen from the Queen Mother’s crown. Drummond, American-born but raised in the UK, is a dark, dangerous, fast-rising star in the Yard who never backs down. And this case is no exception.
Special Agents Lacey Sherlock and Dillon Savich from Coulter’s bestselling FBI series don’t hesitate to help Drummond find the cunning international thief known as the Fox. Nonstop action and high stakes intensify as the chase gets deadly. The Fox will stop at nothing to deliver the Koh-i-Noor to the man who believes in its deadly prophecy. Nicholas Drummond, along with his partner, FBI Special Agent Mike Caine, lay it on the line to retrieve the diamond for Queen and country.
Scotland Yard’s new chief inspector Nicholas Drummond is on the first flight to New York when he learns his colleague, Elaine York, the “minder” of the Crown Jewels for the “Jewel of the Lion” exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was found murdered. Then the centerpiece of the exhibit, the infamous Koh-i-Noor Diamond, is stolen from the Queen Mother’s crown. Drummond, American-born but raised in the UK, is a dark, dangerous, fast-rising star in the Yard who never backs down. And this case is no exception.
Special Agents Lacey Sherlock and Dillon Savich from Coulter’s bestselling FBI series don’t hesitate to help Drummond find the cunning international thief known as the Fox. Nonstop action and high stakes intensify as the chase gets deadly. The Fox will stop at nothing to deliver the Koh-i-Noor to the man who believes in its deadly prophecy. Nicholas Drummond, along with his partner, FBI Special Agent Mike Caine, lay it on the line to retrieve the diamond for Queen and country.
544 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 17, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 910 reviews
September 28, 2015
Catherine Coulter and J.T. Ellison kick off with The Final Cut, the 1st book in A Brit in the FBI Series, which is a spin-off from Coulter’s FBI series.
We are introduced to Scotland Yard’s Det. Chief Insp. Nicholas Drummond, born of an American mother and English father, who was raised in Britain and who becomes the first ever Brit to join the FBI. Tall, dark and dangerous and often described in the same mould as James Bond.
He travels to New York when one of his colleagues, Elaine York was found murdered whilst guarding the Crown Jewels, which were on loan for the “Jewel of the Lion” exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
It’s also discovered that Koh-I-Noor diamond, the centerpiece of the Queen Mother’s crown has been stolen by the crafty thief known as the Fox
Elaborate and eye-popping action, interesting sub-plots, and great character depiction against the backdrop of the exciting and fast moving city of New York, makes this a really great read.
We are introduced to Scotland Yard’s Det. Chief Insp. Nicholas Drummond, born of an American mother and English father, who was raised in Britain and who becomes the first ever Brit to join the FBI. Tall, dark and dangerous and often described in the same mould as James Bond.
He travels to New York when one of his colleagues, Elaine York was found murdered whilst guarding the Crown Jewels, which were on loan for the “Jewel of the Lion” exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
It’s also discovered that Koh-I-Noor diamond, the centerpiece of the Queen Mother’s crown has been stolen by the crafty thief known as the Fox
Teaming up with the local FBI Special Agent Michaela aka Mike Caine, who’s in charge of the investigation and assisted by Special Agents Lacey Sherlock and Dillon Savich from the FBI series, they go on a fast-paced and deadly chase to stop the Fox from delivering the Koh-I-Noor to her client.
Elaborate and eye-popping action, interesting sub-plots, and great character depiction against the backdrop of the exciting and fast moving city of New York, makes this a really great read.
September 13, 2023
A jewel heist. A murder. And a Brit coming overseas to help in an FBI investigation when an old friend is caught up in the middle of it all. I’m a big fan of both JT Ellison and Catherine Coulter so I was eager to read a book they’d written together, especially since I’d been looking forward to another FBI thriller series. Lots of appearances by favorite series characters like Savich and Sherlock. This was a crazy game of cat and mouse as our jewel heist caper took us on a chase across the globe. Loved all the international locales and exciting scenes. Lots of twists and interesting characters in this one!
November 10, 2016
The Final Cut by Catherine Coulter and J.T. Ellison is a 2014 Jove publication.
I’ve been stoked about this series ever since I picked up a stand alone novel by ‘Thriller Chick’, J.T. Ellison. Naturally, having her paired with veteran thriller writer Catherine Coulter, makes this series a big draw.
I am happy to report this first installment is amazing!
Right away we are introduced to Nicholas Drummond, Scotland Yard chief inspector. When his friend, Elaine York, is found dead, it hits him hard, but when it begins to look as though she is also a suspect in the theft of the famous diamond and crown jewel known as “Kog-I-Noor”, he flies to the states to help with the investigation, also hoping to clear his friend’s name in the process.
Enter FBI Special Agent, Mike Caine-
Mike, (don’t let the name fool you), is paired with Nicholas as they embark on a deadly hunt for a renowned jewel thief known as ‘The Fox.”
Also lending a helping hand with the case is Savich and Sherlock, the husband and wife team, featured in Coulter’s FBI series.
This is a very stylish cat and mouse caper, with a touch of mystical magic thrown in as the stolen diamond happens to have a curse attached to it.
“He who owns this diamond will own the world, but will also know all its misfortunes. Only God, or a woman, can wear it with impunity.”
Nicholas Drummond is a cool customer and I think I am going to like him a lot. Mike’s story hasn’t been fleshed out just yet, but I am looking forward to getting to know her better.
I enjoyed the quick pacing of this book, which is very easy to read, with lots of action and intrigue and few surprises thrown into the mix that kept me on my toes.
Overall, this is a highly entertaining thrill ride, which has me feeling pretty excited about the next book in the series.
4 stars
I’ve been stoked about this series ever since I picked up a stand alone novel by ‘Thriller Chick’, J.T. Ellison. Naturally, having her paired with veteran thriller writer Catherine Coulter, makes this series a big draw.
I am happy to report this first installment is amazing!
Right away we are introduced to Nicholas Drummond, Scotland Yard chief inspector. When his friend, Elaine York, is found dead, it hits him hard, but when it begins to look as though she is also a suspect in the theft of the famous diamond and crown jewel known as “Kog-I-Noor”, he flies to the states to help with the investigation, also hoping to clear his friend’s name in the process.
Enter FBI Special Agent, Mike Caine-
Mike, (don’t let the name fool you), is paired with Nicholas as they embark on a deadly hunt for a renowned jewel thief known as ‘The Fox.”
Also lending a helping hand with the case is Savich and Sherlock, the husband and wife team, featured in Coulter’s FBI series.
This is a very stylish cat and mouse caper, with a touch of mystical magic thrown in as the stolen diamond happens to have a curse attached to it.
“He who owns this diamond will own the world, but will also know all its misfortunes. Only God, or a woman, can wear it with impunity.”
Nicholas Drummond is a cool customer and I think I am going to like him a lot. Mike’s story hasn’t been fleshed out just yet, but I am looking forward to getting to know her better.
I enjoyed the quick pacing of this book, which is very easy to read, with lots of action and intrigue and few surprises thrown into the mix that kept me on my toes.
Overall, this is a highly entertaining thrill ride, which has me feeling pretty excited about the next book in the series.
4 stars
January 5, 2022
A very solid effort by Ms. Coulter. Interesting throughout and 8 of 10 stars.
July 29, 2022
A book of a different style than what I am use to but I enjoyed the chase, the hidden gems (no pun intented). All in all, a 3 out of 5
September 12, 2013
A great start to a new series. The Final Cut is book one in a series introducing Det. Chief Inspector Nicholas Drummond of New Scotland Yard. DCI Drummonds ends up coming over the pond to investigate the theft of the Koh-I-Noor diamond from the Queen Mother's Crown while it is on exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum. One of the wrinkles in the theft is the possibility that the Scotland Yard officer who came to coordinate security might have been part of the plot prior to being murdered.
Nicholas is partnered with FBI Agent Michaela (Mike) Caine to work on the case with assistance from favorite Coulter characters Savich and Sherlock. The prime suspect is a famous thief known as the Fox who spent two year inserting herself into the exhibit and planning the theft.
Ms. Coulter has collaborated with J.T. Ellison, a well-known mystery writer, to create this new series. I really enjoyed the intricate details of how the theft was done and how the Fox set up the whole operation. Nicholas and Mike are always one step behind the Fox and end up chasing her all the way to Europe. I also liked the interplay between Nicholas, who is a bit of a rule bender, and Mike who isn't. As the bodies began piling up, the suspense quotient rose as well.
There is a hint of future romantic possibilities with Nicholas and Mike but the book is really focused on the theft of the diamond and the motive of the person who has commissioned the Fox to do the theft. There is a significant twist towards the end of the book involving a secondary character and the ending is left open for one of the main characters in a surprisingly satisfying way.
One of the best things about these collaborations is enjoying an author that you have read before, in my case the FBI series by Ms. Coulter, and discovering a new author who has lots of books that you can read. Add to the mix an excellent book to begin the new series and it’s a win-win situation.
Nicholas is partnered with FBI Agent Michaela (Mike) Caine to work on the case with assistance from favorite Coulter characters Savich and Sherlock. The prime suspect is a famous thief known as the Fox who spent two year inserting herself into the exhibit and planning the theft.
Ms. Coulter has collaborated with J.T. Ellison, a well-known mystery writer, to create this new series. I really enjoyed the intricate details of how the theft was done and how the Fox set up the whole operation. Nicholas and Mike are always one step behind the Fox and end up chasing her all the way to Europe. I also liked the interplay between Nicholas, who is a bit of a rule bender, and Mike who isn't. As the bodies began piling up, the suspense quotient rose as well.
There is a hint of future romantic possibilities with Nicholas and Mike but the book is really focused on the theft of the diamond and the motive of the person who has commissioned the Fox to do the theft. There is a significant twist towards the end of the book involving a secondary character and the ending is left open for one of the main characters in a surprisingly satisfying way.
One of the best things about these collaborations is enjoying an author that you have read before, in my case the FBI series by Ms. Coulter, and discovering a new author who has lots of books that you can read. Add to the mix an excellent book to begin the new series and it’s a win-win situation.
July 16, 2014
In fairness, waiting a few more weeks to let the disappointment from Bombshell completely fade may have allowed me to enjoy The Final Cut with more enthusiasm.
The Final Cut is more cohesive than C.C.'s earlier 2013 release, but the quality of the writing is still weak compared to her best work. Characterizations of the criminals are more substantial and compelling than what's offered about Mike and Nicholas, who come off as flat caricatures in comparison. Multiple references to James Bond, super spy, 007, and martinis tip into cheesiness. Nick is a rich Brit peer who used to work for the Foreign Office. He travels with a custom-tailored tux in his luggage. He's handsome. He's daring. He's dangerous. Readers are smart enough to make the implied James Bond connection without being hit over the head with it.
Mike's and Nick's vocabularies don't resonate as authentic to their ages, educations, and professional experiences, although the absence of profanity is greatly appreciated. There is a hollowness to the good guys' characters and exchanges--even with Sherlock and Savich--that makes The Final Cut a mediocre read for this C.C. fan. She is so much more talented than this.
Every element related to the Koh-I-Noor diamond legend was intriguing, but overall, the story feels forced. Maybe that's in anticipation of the rest of the series? Will still likely give the second installment a shot.
I haven't read any J.T. Ellison, and reading The Final Cut hasn't enticed me to do so.
The Final Cut is more cohesive than C.C.'s earlier 2013 release, but the quality of the writing is still weak compared to her best work. Characterizations of the criminals are more substantial and compelling than what's offered about Mike and Nicholas, who come off as flat caricatures in comparison. Multiple references to James Bond, super spy, 007, and martinis tip into cheesiness. Nick is a rich Brit peer who used to work for the Foreign Office. He travels with a custom-tailored tux in his luggage. He's handsome. He's daring. He's dangerous. Readers are smart enough to make the implied James Bond connection without being hit over the head with it.
Mike's and Nick's vocabularies don't resonate as authentic to their ages, educations, and professional experiences, although the absence of profanity is greatly appreciated. There is a hollowness to the good guys' characters and exchanges--even with Sherlock and Savich--that makes The Final Cut a mediocre read for this C.C. fan. She is so much more talented than this.
Every element related to the Koh-I-Noor diamond legend was intriguing, but overall, the story feels forced. Maybe that's in anticipation of the rest of the series? Will still likely give the second installment a shot.
I haven't read any J.T. Ellison, and reading The Final Cut hasn't enticed me to do so.
March 14, 2017
Garbage! Full of lazy writing ("instincts!"), melodrama, and cliche. A completely unbelievable plot and cast of characters - "Sherlock," really? Not helped by the FBI / Interpol descriptions that sound like they were written by someone who once saw a spy movie. Should have trusted my own "instincts" and shut this down after the first hour.
February 1, 2019
Pleasant surprise for this audio version of a Catherine Coulter suspense novel.
As with many suspense novels the action takes place within a very short time period and over several countries. In this case the theft of the Koohinoor diamond, a very real diamond and the center stone of the Queen of England's crown, is the starting point. Alex Drummond - New Scotland Yard detective, a hunky 007 type, half American/half Brit, comes over to "help" the FBI because a close friend (and I suspect ex-lover) is found dead and assumed to be responsible for the theft. Alex is furious that anyone would suspect his friend of such duplicitous and, frankly, treasonous behavior. He is paired up with Mike Caine (female) with the FBI.
Thank heavens, CC takes a turn and avoids the usual grumpy Scotland Yard vs FBI standoff as well as some of the other cliches when you have an unlikely detective duo. Thanks in large part to some excellent, EXCELLENT dual narration, these two characters are snappy and fun to listen to.
The story begins at the Met in NYC where the jewels are on loan and runs over to France as Alex and Mike try and regain the jewel in the crown. Coulter and JT Ellison weave actual historical lore about the diamond with fictional for an interesting listen with just a few plot holes. There is the usual villain that has mega superpowers, and if they only used their powers for good not evil peace would reign on earth.
Alex is a British charmer with what amounts to a Mary Poppins kind of suitcase that amazes Mike with the number of wardrobe changes he gets out of it, and Mike is a strong female character without being strident or resentful.
I have a feeling that what made the story for me was the narration. Renee Raudman and MacLeod Andrews handle the female and male characters incredibly well. RR does the thief's voice as well as others, and adds a sophisticated European aloof quality that is mesmerizing. MA is also equal to his task of bringing Alex and other male characters to life.
Definitely going for more of these.
Warning: it starts out pretty slow for a chapter or two as CC brings in other characters, but it hits the ground running when Alex and Mike team up.
As with many suspense novels the action takes place within a very short time period and over several countries. In this case the theft of the Koohinoor diamond, a very real diamond and the center stone of the Queen of England's crown, is the starting point. Alex Drummond - New Scotland Yard detective, a hunky 007 type, half American/half Brit, comes over to "help" the FBI because a close friend (and I suspect ex-lover) is found dead and assumed to be responsible for the theft. Alex is furious that anyone would suspect his friend of such duplicitous and, frankly, treasonous behavior. He is paired up with Mike Caine (female) with the FBI.
Thank heavens, CC takes a turn and avoids the usual grumpy Scotland Yard vs FBI standoff as well as some of the other cliches when you have an unlikely detective duo. Thanks in large part to some excellent, EXCELLENT dual narration, these two characters are snappy and fun to listen to.
The story begins at the Met in NYC where the jewels are on loan and runs over to France as Alex and Mike try and regain the jewel in the crown. Coulter and JT Ellison weave actual historical lore about the diamond with fictional for an interesting listen with just a few plot holes. There is the usual villain that has mega superpowers, and if they only used their powers for good not evil peace would reign on earth.
Alex is a British charmer with what amounts to a Mary Poppins kind of suitcase that amazes Mike with the number of wardrobe changes he gets out of it, and Mike is a strong female character without being strident or resentful.
I have a feeling that what made the story for me was the narration. Renee Raudman and MacLeod Andrews handle the female and male characters incredibly well. RR does the thief's voice as well as others, and adds a sophisticated European aloof quality that is mesmerizing. MA is also equal to his task of bringing Alex and other male characters to life.
Definitely going for more of these.
Warning: it starts out pretty slow for a chapter or two as CC brings in other characters, but it hits the ground running when Alex and Mike team up.
April 19, 2018
The Final Cut was an excellent read - treachery, betrayal, thievery, murder, stuff that blows up - how could you not like this book? This was a re-read for me to refresh my memory about Nickolas Drummond and Mike Caine, so I could read the full series.
The storyline was well thought out and researched - a new hero to love and respect with tinges of Bond, James Bond, although no martini's were served during the novel, you could imagine them being shaken and not stirred :)
A little bit of "woowoo" thrown in, not my cup of tea, but I'm okay with it.
So 2 thumbs up and 4 stars - if you haven't read this book yet, do so!
The storyline was well thought out and researched - a new hero to love and respect with tinges of Bond, James Bond, although no martini's were served during the novel, you could imagine them being shaken and not stirred :)
A little bit of "woowoo" thrown in, not my cup of tea, but I'm okay with it.
So 2 thumbs up and 4 stars - if you haven't read this book yet, do so!
July 1, 2023
I listened to the audio book. A great story, but I expected nothing less! I'm not 100% certain I like the dual narrators. This is the second book I've listened to with dual narrators (male/female) and it was distracting at first. I became used to it about 25% into the story. Listened at 1.3X
May 30, 2019
Its an alright book but I won’t be continuing the series
December 19, 2014
This was a good start to a new series, but nothing exceptional. Nicholas Drummond works for Scotland yard but has dual citizenship with both England and the US. He involves himself in the FBI's investigation into the death of another Scotland Yard inspector, Elaine York, who was in the US overseeing an exhibition of a special jewel from the queen's crown.
I've never read J.T. Ellison but I read Coulter's FBI series regularly and this book seemed like straight up Coulter. I couldn't see Ellison's influence.
It's an enjoyable story, a mix of predictable and unexpected, with Coulter's trademark low-key romance, lots of action, and several massive info dumps. If you like her FBI series, you'll enjoy this.
I've never read J.T. Ellison but I read Coulter's FBI series regularly and this book seemed like straight up Coulter. I couldn't see Ellison's influence.
It's an enjoyable story, a mix of predictable and unexpected, with Coulter's trademark low-key romance, lots of action, and several massive info dumps. If you like her FBI series, you'll enjoy this.
June 19, 2014
I won this book from a goodreads giveaway. I loved it. A different book for Catherine Coulter but I think it was her best yet. It kept me on my toes and I love the potential between the 2 main characters. I can not wait for the next one. :)
February 24, 2022
This was an exciting read. Kept me on the edge of my seat. I would recommend this book to all that enjoy a good fbi story.
December 24, 2013
The Final Cut by Catherine Coulter and J T Ellison
Detective Chief Inspector Nicholas Drummond of the New Scotland Yard teams up with Special Agent Michaela Caine of the FBI to solve a murder and track down a stolen diamond.
I enjoyed the Nonstop action in this thriller. It was a fast read because there was always something happening. Honor among thieves? Not always. Star walk-on rolls by Savich and Sherlock. Good author combo on this. Turned out well.
Detective Chief Inspector Nicholas Drummond of the New Scotland Yard teams up with Special Agent Michaela Caine of the FBI to solve a murder and track down a stolen diamond.
I enjoyed the Nonstop action in this thriller. It was a fast read because there was always something happening. Honor among thieves? Not always. Star walk-on rolls by Savich and Sherlock. Good author combo on this. Turned out well.
May 12, 2018
CC is a new author for me and to tell you the truth, I'm not that impressed. I know it was co-written but it fell a bit flat and the characters came across shallow, no depth. The writing didn't flow and felt amateurish. I started skimming about half way through, which is not a good sign and more or less clinched the deal for me. To be truthful, it's only one and a half stars, can't quite make it to two.
I'm going to give Catherine Coulter solely written books a go.
I'm going to give Catherine Coulter solely written books a go.
December 19, 2021
This was my first book I’ve read written by Catherine Coulter, so didn’t know what to expect.
WOW! Blew away expectations and it felt like I was watching an action movie while reading this book. Many, many times I found myself struggling to put the damn thing down because I was so engrossed!
Twists and turns a plenty, there were some I guessed and a couple I didn’t see.
With a good mix of characters too, this one is definitely a win.
Looking forward to reading more in this series.
WOW! Blew away expectations and it felt like I was watching an action movie while reading this book. Many, many times I found myself struggling to put the damn thing down because I was so engrossed!
Twists and turns a plenty, there were some I guessed and a couple I didn’t see.
With a good mix of characters too, this one is definitely a win.
Looking forward to reading more in this series.
October 23, 2013
This was a fast-paced, involving read. I liked the frequent action scenes and the globe-trotting, caperish narrative. While Nicholas is quite dashing, the antiheroic Fox really steals the show. I would continue reading this series.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine: http://affairedecoeur.com.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine: http://affairedecoeur.com.
January 19, 2015
Things about this book annoyed me, like Sherlock's look around the one crime scene, and that it seemed super special that she could do that. It annoyed me. And some word choices. But I enjoyed the mystery, and I can't wait to read more!
December 8, 2020
This is a rollicking fun and quick read if you suspend some disbelief.
Nicholas Drummond of New Scotland Yard is shocked when his friend, Inspector Elaine York, is murdered in New York while on duty escorting and guarding Britain's Crown Jewels, on loan to the Metropolitan Museum. He flies to America and is soon embroiled in a plot to steal the biggest diamond of them all, the enigmatic and supposedly cursed Koh-i-Noor diamond. Along with Michaela Caine of the FBI, the duo hunt down an evasive art thief without realising how thick the plot really is.
This book is basically like an episode of CSI - it's quick, it's fun, and it invites you to switch off your brain and roll with whatever they throw at you. Plot-wise, I managed to guess some of the big reveals (thanks to years of reading Agatha Christie and being overly suspicious of everything), like when , and some plot developments didn't make sense or was a little convenient for me, but overall I was still nevertheless engaged to keep on reading. The chapters were sufficiently short and tumbled on to each other so you never could find a good place to stop.
The characters were a little cliched but they weren't annoying or obnoxious. Nicholas being , and he was just as physically perfect too, being frequently referred to as "James Bond" by Caine. Michaela, or Mike, was OK as well, but we don't really quite know much about her to be super attached to her.
Ironically, the character I enjoyed the most was Kitsune, the Fox, the jewel thief. We seem to actually spend more time getting to know her and her backstory than we do with our two main leads. I also wish that . Although we get to know her more than the two main leads, I still felt like I wanted her fleshed out even more.
I felt like the story dragged a little bit around the middle sections, when the two main leads are , but it wasn't intolerable and still much easier to wade through than a lot of other books. I was particularly disappointed when, in Ch 88, . Honestly this pulled the ending down a little for me, I didn't like how convenient it was. The ending was also not very surprising and didn't pull any huge twists that shocked me. I was getting a little worried that
Tl;dr this was a mindless read that is more enjoyable than many of its kind out there. As long as you don't go in expecting a super-sophisticated or complex mystery, you might get a lot of entertainment out of this.
Nicholas Drummond of New Scotland Yard is shocked when his friend, Inspector Elaine York, is murdered in New York while on duty escorting and guarding Britain's Crown Jewels, on loan to the Metropolitan Museum. He flies to America and is soon embroiled in a plot to steal the biggest diamond of them all, the enigmatic and supposedly cursed Koh-i-Noor diamond. Along with Michaela Caine of the FBI, the duo hunt down an evasive art thief without realising how thick the plot really is.
This book is basically like an episode of CSI - it's quick, it's fun, and it invites you to switch off your brain and roll with whatever they throw at you. Plot-wise, I managed to guess some of the big reveals (thanks to years of reading Agatha Christie and being overly suspicious of everything), like when , and some plot developments didn't make sense or was a little convenient for me, but overall I was still nevertheless engaged to keep on reading. The chapters were sufficiently short and tumbled on to each other so you never could find a good place to stop.
The characters were a little cliched but they weren't annoying or obnoxious. Nicholas being , and he was just as physically perfect too, being frequently referred to as "James Bond" by Caine. Michaela, or Mike, was OK as well, but we don't really quite know much about her to be super attached to her.
Ironically, the character I enjoyed the most was Kitsune, the Fox, the jewel thief. We seem to actually spend more time getting to know her and her backstory than we do with our two main leads. I also wish that . Although we get to know her more than the two main leads, I still felt like I wanted her fleshed out even more.
I felt like the story dragged a little bit around the middle sections, when the two main leads are , but it wasn't intolerable and still much easier to wade through than a lot of other books. I was particularly disappointed when, in Ch 88, . Honestly this pulled the ending down a little for me, I didn't like how convenient it was. The ending was also not very surprising and didn't pull any huge twists that shocked me. I was getting a little worried that
Tl;dr this was a mindless read that is more enjoyable than many of its kind out there. As long as you don't go in expecting a super-sophisticated or complex mystery, you might get a lot of entertainment out of this.
December 24, 2020
This was a really fun read, especially the split narrator style audiobook that I listened to. The amount of real history built into the story was very enticing, only furthering the excitement and mysticism the authors were building up. There were a few things along the way in this mystery that I was able to accurately predict would be coming, but I still enjoyed the journey and definitely got caught off guard plenty. I think I'll have to add the next book in the series to my eventual TBR list.
September 17, 2013
The Koh-i-Noor diamond’s been stolen from the Queen Mother’s crown while on loan for a special exhibit at the NY Metropolitan Art Museum, taken from right under the noses of the Met’s security and the New York FBI.
Chief Inspector Nicholas Drummond from New Scotland Yard is on his way to the US, against the wishes of his superior to assist in investigating an associate’s murder when he learns of the theft of the diamond and his associate’s alleged connection to the crime.
NY FBI Special Agent Mike Caine’s been assigned to investigate the murder of the English woman when she learns her ex-boss’s Scotland Yard nephew will be joining her. They soon find themselves embroiled in the search for the infamous diamond and the elusive jewel thief known as Fox and is surprised by the Fox’s proximity to them before the crime.
Mike and Nick will face a multitude of dangers while searching for this cunning adversary. They must act quickly before the trail goes cold, before the diamond disappears forever and the clues get lost in the smoke and mirrors of this never before caught thief. They will have to rely on many international allies in law enforcement and battle many enemies while they globetrot to try and solve this crime. It’s up in the air if they’ll even survive let alone recover this cursed diamond.
Catherine Coulter and JT Ellison are both fabulous authors both with very individual voices and writing styles and have accomplished a feat that many before them have failed at, a true literary collaboration that’s an amazing brilliantly told plus an intensely entertaining story. It’s a true melding of the incredible and somewhat light crime drama of Catherine with the darker yet just as astonishing hard-boiled police procedural of JT. Their storyline is convincingly authentic, their combined narrative is an edge of your seat puzzle that twists and turns while painting beautiful pictures of all the breathtaking places they go and the dialogue is cop speak all the way. The two main protagonists are realistic in their roles, but each has that special panache that sets them apart and makes them interesting and unique. The co-stars of both cops and robbers are all fantastic and we also get to reconnect with Catherine’s legendary and iconic couple, FBI agents extraordinaire Dillon Savich and Lacy Sherlock whose appearance and contributions to the story is a perfect fit. If you’re a fan of either author or the genre in general you will love this first in a new series by them.
Ladies Brava for this incredible journey, I personally can’t wait to see where Mike and Nick go from here.
Click this link to see my interview with JT and enter my Giveaway-http://thereadingfrenzy.blogspot.com/...
Chief Inspector Nicholas Drummond from New Scotland Yard is on his way to the US, against the wishes of his superior to assist in investigating an associate’s murder when he learns of the theft of the diamond and his associate’s alleged connection to the crime.
NY FBI Special Agent Mike Caine’s been assigned to investigate the murder of the English woman when she learns her ex-boss’s Scotland Yard nephew will be joining her. They soon find themselves embroiled in the search for the infamous diamond and the elusive jewel thief known as Fox and is surprised by the Fox’s proximity to them before the crime.
Mike and Nick will face a multitude of dangers while searching for this cunning adversary. They must act quickly before the trail goes cold, before the diamond disappears forever and the clues get lost in the smoke and mirrors of this never before caught thief. They will have to rely on many international allies in law enforcement and battle many enemies while they globetrot to try and solve this crime. It’s up in the air if they’ll even survive let alone recover this cursed diamond.
Catherine Coulter and JT Ellison are both fabulous authors both with very individual voices and writing styles and have accomplished a feat that many before them have failed at, a true literary collaboration that’s an amazing brilliantly told plus an intensely entertaining story. It’s a true melding of the incredible and somewhat light crime drama of Catherine with the darker yet just as astonishing hard-boiled police procedural of JT. Their storyline is convincingly authentic, their combined narrative is an edge of your seat puzzle that twists and turns while painting beautiful pictures of all the breathtaking places they go and the dialogue is cop speak all the way. The two main protagonists are realistic in their roles, but each has that special panache that sets them apart and makes them interesting and unique. The co-stars of both cops and robbers are all fantastic and we also get to reconnect with Catherine’s legendary and iconic couple, FBI agents extraordinaire Dillon Savich and Lacy Sherlock whose appearance and contributions to the story is a perfect fit. If you’re a fan of either author or the genre in general you will love this first in a new series by them.
Ladies Brava for this incredible journey, I personally can’t wait to see where Mike and Nick go from here.
Click this link to see my interview with JT and enter my Giveaway-http://thereadingfrenzy.blogspot.com/...
May 22, 2023
This review is also posted on my blog at http://lbrychic.blogspot.com
I received an advance copy of this title through the First To Read program from Penguin. http://www.firsttoread.com
I'd give this more like 3.5 Stars but I'll round up on this occasion.
I've always loved Coulter's FBI Thriller Series. I enjoyed the mixing it up by adding a "Brit" to the FBI. While the book was on the long side, it was a quick read. It doesn't have quite the same feel as the other FBI thrillers by Coulter. Nicholas has his own special gifts. He is a spy turned Chief Inspector for the Scotland Yard. Michaela works for the New York Office of the FBI. Nicholas and Michaela "Mike" work well together trying to solve the death of dear friend, Elaine York, and the theft of the rare diamond from Queen Mother's Crown that was on loan to the MET. The search for the elusive FOX, an international thief, draws Nicholas and Mike closer together during all this exciting and intense action.
I will "read" this again when it is available as an audiobook. Can't wait to hear what Nicholas and Mike sound like.
I received an advance copy of this title through the First To Read program from Penguin. http://www.firsttoread.com
I'd give this more like 3.5 Stars but I'll round up on this occasion.
I've always loved Coulter's FBI Thriller Series. I enjoyed the mixing it up by adding a "Brit" to the FBI. While the book was on the long side, it was a quick read. It doesn't have quite the same feel as the other FBI thrillers by Coulter. Nicholas has his own special gifts. He is a spy turned Chief Inspector for the Scotland Yard. Michaela works for the New York Office of the FBI. Nicholas and Michaela "Mike" work well together trying to solve the death of dear friend, Elaine York, and the theft of the rare diamond from Queen Mother's Crown that was on loan to the MET. The search for the elusive FOX, an international thief, draws Nicholas and Mike closer together during all this exciting and intense action.
I will "read" this again when it is available as an audiobook. Can't wait to hear what Nicholas and Mike sound like.
November 17, 2013
It's always disappointing when a favorite author flunks (see The Heist, and this is another one. The plot is just *slightly* familiar, so stop me if you've heard it before: a famous jewel thief known as The Fox trained by a criminal mastermind, a cursed jewel, and a former spy turned policeman. Yeah.
But it could have been redeemed by the characters, if only they also weren't overly familiar. Even Savich and Sherlock, the reason most of us are reading this, are cookie-cutter characters. They appear, do their thing (Sherlock reads crime scenes, Savich is a computer genius) and vanish off-stage again. There's none of the interaction between them we've come to love, none of the uniqueness and very little originality. Even Nick, the apparent star of the show, didn't seem to be anything other than a copy of James Bond. (And yes, thanks for the *repeated* references to 007, in case I missed it the first dozen times.)
But it could have been redeemed by the characters, if only they also weren't overly familiar. Even Savich and Sherlock, the reason most of us are reading this, are cookie-cutter characters. They appear, do their thing (Sherlock reads crime scenes, Savich is a computer genius) and vanish off-stage again. There's none of the interaction between them we've come to love, none of the uniqueness and very little originality. Even Nick, the apparent star of the show, didn't seem to be anything other than a copy of James Bond. (And yes, thanks for the *repeated* references to 007, in case I missed it the first dozen times.)
August 31, 2013
I received an advance copy of this title through the First To Read program from Penguin. http://www.firsttoread.com
The Final Cut is a fast paced thriller that I was reluctant to put down. The plot is well-designed and hooked me right away. The characters had depth of personality that made their relationships and interactions very believable. I found myself rooting both for The Fox and those set on capturing her. I look forward to reading Coutler’s FBI series written previous to this one and of course the next book in the series. Thanks for a great read!
The Final Cut is a fast paced thriller that I was reluctant to put down. The plot is well-designed and hooked me right away. The characters had depth of personality that made their relationships and interactions very believable. I found myself rooting both for The Fox and those set on capturing her. I look forward to reading Coutler’s FBI series written previous to this one and of course the next book in the series. Thanks for a great read!
February 2, 2014
Very good. An exceptional thriller combining the smart and gutsy FBI agent with a former British spy, now New Scotland Yard agent. Together they chance an internal jewel thief who has stolen the Koh-I-Nor from the Queen mother's crown while at a special exhibit of the British Crown Jewels at the Met in N.Y.C. FBI agents, Dillon Savich and his Lacey Sherlock help with the investigation,stateside. The author weaves a wonderful tale melding real historic fact with fiction in a seamless story of intrigue and murder. Great read for these cold winter evenings.
October 18, 2015
Perhaps 4.5 stars.
I really liked this book, the first of Catherine Coulter's new series, co-authored by J.T. Ellison.
I have not read Coulter's previous FBI series, so I cannot evaluate this book in comparison with the previous books. This hardcover copy came in at a hefty 449 pages, plus the author's endnote about the real Koh-i-Noor diamond in the Queen Mother's crown.
I really liked this book, the first of Catherine Coulter's new series, co-authored by J.T. Ellison.
I have not read Coulter's previous FBI series, so I cannot evaluate this book in comparison with the previous books. This hardcover copy came in at a hefty 449 pages, plus the author's endnote about the real Koh-i-Noor diamond in the Queen Mother's crown.
November 23, 2022
Another well written mystery with a European twist. The characters are well written and rather interesting as well as layered nicely. From England to New York City and from Switzerland to Paris the reader is kept entertained from start to finish. An easy recommend to anyone who enjoys will written mysteries.
December 28, 2017
I actually found a Book 1 in this series. About fainted. I understand this is the first book in a new series about a “Brit in the FBI”. Catherine Coulter has a co-author on this book J. T. Ellison. The book starts out with Detective Chief Inspector Nicholas Drummond traveling from London to New York City as a member of his Scotland Yard team has been murdered. Detective Inspector Elaine York was on the protection detail accompanying the Koh-I-Noor diamond, the center piece of the Queen Mother’s Crown which is on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Saleem Singh Lanighan has hired “The Fox” a famous jewel thief to steal the diamond. There are well developed subplots to keep this story from being a simple one to one contest.
There are ingenious disguises, daring bluffs and nail biting escapes all add to the fun of the chase. Coulter’s Savich and Sherlock are also on the case. Drummond’s uncle is the head of security for the Museum. Drummond is teamed up with FBI agent Michaela “Mike” Caine. At the end of the book Drummond is invited to join the FBI. This is an enjoyable easy to read book however it is quite long. There was a lot of information about the Koh-I-Noor diamond including an overview of its history and the curse. As I knew nothing of the diamond, I found this interesting which drove me to Google to search information about the diamond. I read this as an audio book. Renee Raudmand and Macleod Andrews did an adequate job with the narration. I about flipped with my good luck. Recommend. Quite good.
There are ingenious disguises, daring bluffs and nail biting escapes all add to the fun of the chase. Coulter’s Savich and Sherlock are also on the case. Drummond’s uncle is the head of security for the Museum. Drummond is teamed up with FBI agent Michaela “Mike” Caine. At the end of the book Drummond is invited to join the FBI. This is an enjoyable easy to read book however it is quite long. There was a lot of information about the Koh-I-Noor diamond including an overview of its history and the curse. As I knew nothing of the diamond, I found this interesting which drove me to Google to search information about the diamond. I read this as an audio book. Renee Raudmand and Macleod Andrews did an adequate job with the narration. I about flipped with my good luck. Recommend. Quite good.
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