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Irene Rivers #1
Burned Bridges
An electrifying new series featuring Irene Rivers (code Wolverine), the unforgettable FBI Director from New York Times bestselling author John Gilstrap’s blockbuster, award-winning Jonathan Grave thrillers. Fans of action-packed page-turners by Catherine Coulter, Patricia Cornwell, and Tess Gerritsen are in for a treat, as Irene escapes the treacherous power games of Washington—only to face a new and equally deadly enemy in a rural West Virginia town . . .
She thought she and her loved ones would be safe here. The lovely farm nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle looks like the perfect refuge from the backstabbing maelstrom of DC politics. But this seemingly peaceful new home is anything but safe for former FBI director Rivers and her children.
Troubles begin when Irene’s 12-year-old nephew finds a dead body in a cave on the property. Grim evidence points to a long-ago murder and cover-up. Powerful forces will do anything—including kill again—to protect their interests. Soon Irene’s family is the target of the kinds of threats and intimidation she’s seen before from major crime syndicates . . . but this time, the enemy determined to tear them down is homegrown.
Then comes the attack she most fears. With everything she cares about at risk and an impossible deadline looming, Irene knows she won’t get any help from the local police force. And she’s burned too many bridges in Washington to get help from the FBI. This time, Irene Rivers is on her own.
Packed with nail-biting suspense, gripping drama, and searing intrigue, Burned Bridges takes readers into a compelling world of unseen dangers and unexpected heroes.
She thought she and her loved ones would be safe here. The lovely farm nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle looks like the perfect refuge from the backstabbing maelstrom of DC politics. But this seemingly peaceful new home is anything but safe for former FBI director Rivers and her children.
Troubles begin when Irene’s 12-year-old nephew finds a dead body in a cave on the property. Grim evidence points to a long-ago murder and cover-up. Powerful forces will do anything—including kill again—to protect their interests. Soon Irene’s family is the target of the kinds of threats and intimidation she’s seen before from major crime syndicates . . . but this time, the enemy determined to tear them down is homegrown.
Then comes the attack she most fears. With everything she cares about at risk and an impossible deadline looming, Irene knows she won’t get any help from the local police force. And she’s burned too many bridges in Washington to get help from the FBI. This time, Irene Rivers is on her own.
Packed with nail-biting suspense, gripping drama, and searing intrigue, Burned Bridges takes readers into a compelling world of unseen dangers and unexpected heroes.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published May 27, 2025
330 people are currently reading
13501 people want to read
About the author
John Gilstrap
79 books1,209 followersA little bit about my background... I've always been a closet-writer. As a kid, I lived for the opportunity to write short stories. I was the editor of my high school newspaper for a while (the Valor Dictus, Robinson High School, class of 1975), until I quit ("You can't fire me! I quit!") over a lofty First Amendment issue that seemed very important at the time. My goal, in fact, was to become a journalist in the vein of Woodward or Bernstein. Okay, I confess, I wanted to be Woodward; Robert Redford played him in the movie, and chicks really dug Robert Redford.
I graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1979, and armed with a degree in American history, I couldn't find a job. I ended up settling for a position with a little-noticed trade journal serving the construction industry. They called me the managing editor and they paid me food stamp wages. I hated it. About this time, I joined the Burke Volunteer Fire Department in Fairfax County, Virginia, if only to find relief from the boredom of my job. Running about a thousand calls my first year with the department, I was hooked, and the volunteer fire service became an important part of my life for the next 15 years. In the early eighties, hating my job, I went the way of all frustrated liberal arts undergrads—back to graduate school. Earning a Master of Science degree in safety engineering from the University of Southern California, I started down a whole new road. For the next decade and a half, I became an expert (don't you hate that word?) on explosives safety and hazardous waste. Meanwhile, I kept writing. I didn't tell anyone, of course, because, well, you just don't share artistic dreams with fellow engineers. They look at you funny.
My first novel, Nathan's Run, was in fact my fourth novel, and when it sold, it sold big. At a time in my life when things were going well—I was president of my own consulting firm—things were suddenly going very well. Warner Bros. bought the movie rights to Nathan's Run two days after the first book rights were sold, and as of this date, the novel has been translated and published in one form or another in over 20 countries. With Nathan's Run in the can, as it were, I thought I might finally be on to something, but I didn't quit my "day job" until after I sold the book and movie rights to my second novel, At All Costs. I figured that while one-in-a-row might be luck, two-in-a-row was a trend. So, I started writing full-time.
More novels followed, and then a few screenplays. I was living the dream.
But I really didn't like it much. I learned pretty quickly that when you're born a Type-A personality, those extrovert tendencies don't go away just because you're practicing a craft you love. In fact, after just a couple of years of dream fulfillment, I was pretty friggin' bored with the company of my imaginary friends, so I did something that I've never heard a full-time artist do before: I went back to a day job. At first, it was just a matter of reactivating my consulting business, but then, in 2004, I was handed my ideal Big-Boy Job (that's what my wife calls it) working as the director of safety for a trade association in Washington, DC.
And I continue to write. In 2006, Six Minutes to Freedom was published to considerable acclaim. My first (and probably last) foray into book-length non-fiction, SixMin tells the story of Kurt Muse, the only civilian of record ever rescued by the super-secret Delta Force. Thanks to Kurt's cooperation (he is co-author), I gained access to people and places that lifelong civilians like me should never see. The heroic warriors I met during that research turned out to be nothing like their movie stereotypes. These were not only gentlemen, but gentle men, who remained free of the kind of boasting and self-aggrandizement that I was expecting. They were supreme professionals, and very nice guys.
And through them I got the idea for my new series character, Jonathan Grave. He's fo
I graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1979, and armed with a degree in American history, I couldn't find a job. I ended up settling for a position with a little-noticed trade journal serving the construction industry. They called me the managing editor and they paid me food stamp wages. I hated it. About this time, I joined the Burke Volunteer Fire Department in Fairfax County, Virginia, if only to find relief from the boredom of my job. Running about a thousand calls my first year with the department, I was hooked, and the volunteer fire service became an important part of my life for the next 15 years. In the early eighties, hating my job, I went the way of all frustrated liberal arts undergrads—back to graduate school. Earning a Master of Science degree in safety engineering from the University of Southern California, I started down a whole new road. For the next decade and a half, I became an expert (don't you hate that word?) on explosives safety and hazardous waste. Meanwhile, I kept writing. I didn't tell anyone, of course, because, well, you just don't share artistic dreams with fellow engineers. They look at you funny.
My first novel, Nathan's Run, was in fact my fourth novel, and when it sold, it sold big. At a time in my life when things were going well—I was president of my own consulting firm—things were suddenly going very well. Warner Bros. bought the movie rights to Nathan's Run two days after the first book rights were sold, and as of this date, the novel has been translated and published in one form or another in over 20 countries. With Nathan's Run in the can, as it were, I thought I might finally be on to something, but I didn't quit my "day job" until after I sold the book and movie rights to my second novel, At All Costs. I figured that while one-in-a-row might be luck, two-in-a-row was a trend. So, I started writing full-time.
More novels followed, and then a few screenplays. I was living the dream.
But I really didn't like it much. I learned pretty quickly that when you're born a Type-A personality, those extrovert tendencies don't go away just because you're practicing a craft you love. In fact, after just a couple of years of dream fulfillment, I was pretty friggin' bored with the company of my imaginary friends, so I did something that I've never heard a full-time artist do before: I went back to a day job. At first, it was just a matter of reactivating my consulting business, but then, in 2004, I was handed my ideal Big-Boy Job (that's what my wife calls it) working as the director of safety for a trade association in Washington, DC.
And I continue to write. In 2006, Six Minutes to Freedom was published to considerable acclaim. My first (and probably last) foray into book-length non-fiction, SixMin tells the story of Kurt Muse, the only civilian of record ever rescued by the super-secret Delta Force. Thanks to Kurt's cooperation (he is co-author), I gained access to people and places that lifelong civilians like me should never see. The heroic warriors I met during that research turned out to be nothing like their movie stereotypes. These were not only gentlemen, but gentle men, who remained free of the kind of boasting and self-aggrandizement that I was expecting. They were supreme professionals, and very nice guys.
And through them I got the idea for my new series character, Jonathan Grave. He's fo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
May 22, 2025
If you enjoy an action-packed and suspenseful crime thriller with a strong main female protagonist, then look no further than
Burned Bridges
by John Gilstrap. It’s the first novel in a new series featuring former FBI director Irene Rivers. She has moved to West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle in Jenkins County with her daughter Kelly and nephew Wyatt. She thought they would be safe on her grandparents’ farm she had inherited. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Troubles start when Wyatt finds a dead body on the property and evidence points to a long-ago murder and cover-up. Powerful individuals will do anything to protect their interests. Soon Irene and her family are targeted by threats and intimidation followed by attacks. Irene’s plans to care for and protect her family becomes harder than anything she’s experienced before now.
Irene had prioritized her career in the past, but she now worries that in saving the country she loves, she may have hurt the family she loved at least as much. She’s courageous, versatile, and trying to do the right thing for Kelly and Wyatt. She always seeks justice versus grandstanding and casting blame. Kelly didn’t want to leave their old house and her friends and is taking a lot of criticism for what Irene did in her role as FBI director. Wyatt likes to read, but isn’t into looking for the symbolism in classics. While he enjoys reading, he is struggling with mathematics. He loves to explore the family property with this dog Ruger. He likes being around other people and listening to what they have to say, but he prefers to not share his opinions.
As in other Gilstrap novels, the first chapter grabbed my attention. It’s chilling, with a scene from 35 years ago. And after shifting to the present day, it is still intense, emotional, and suspenseful. Gilstrap is an excellent storyteller who combines a creative plot with gripping scenes and plenty of action. This kept me engaged throughout the book. As usual, his expertise in weaponry is shown during the action scenes. There are a couple of subplots that add complexity, twists, and depth to the story. The author has weaved another page-turning installment involving corrupt officials, lawbreakers, greed, power, murder, intimidation, blackmail, family, cover-ups, and violence. I thought it was profound how the author depicted both bravery and loyalty throughout the story. The ending was spectacular and provides a thread for the next book in the series.
Overall, this is a powerful, emotional, intense, and riveting novel with great characterization, a solid mystery, and it’s a strong start to the series. Readers familiar with the author’s Jonathan Grave series will remember that Irene is a recurring and supporting character in those novels. Those who like Gilstrap’s novels, crime thrillers, and novels with strong female lead characters will likely enjoy this series.
Kensington Publishing and John Gilstrap provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 27, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-----------------------------------------
My 4.5 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Troubles start when Wyatt finds a dead body on the property and evidence points to a long-ago murder and cover-up. Powerful individuals will do anything to protect their interests. Soon Irene and her family are targeted by threats and intimidation followed by attacks. Irene’s plans to care for and protect her family becomes harder than anything she’s experienced before now.
Irene had prioritized her career in the past, but she now worries that in saving the country she loves, she may have hurt the family she loved at least as much. She’s courageous, versatile, and trying to do the right thing for Kelly and Wyatt. She always seeks justice versus grandstanding and casting blame. Kelly didn’t want to leave their old house and her friends and is taking a lot of criticism for what Irene did in her role as FBI director. Wyatt likes to read, but isn’t into looking for the symbolism in classics. While he enjoys reading, he is struggling with mathematics. He loves to explore the family property with this dog Ruger. He likes being around other people and listening to what they have to say, but he prefers to not share his opinions.
As in other Gilstrap novels, the first chapter grabbed my attention. It’s chilling, with a scene from 35 years ago. And after shifting to the present day, it is still intense, emotional, and suspenseful. Gilstrap is an excellent storyteller who combines a creative plot with gripping scenes and plenty of action. This kept me engaged throughout the book. As usual, his expertise in weaponry is shown during the action scenes. There are a couple of subplots that add complexity, twists, and depth to the story. The author has weaved another page-turning installment involving corrupt officials, lawbreakers, greed, power, murder, intimidation, blackmail, family, cover-ups, and violence. I thought it was profound how the author depicted both bravery and loyalty throughout the story. The ending was spectacular and provides a thread for the next book in the series.
Overall, this is a powerful, emotional, intense, and riveting novel with great characterization, a solid mystery, and it’s a strong start to the series. Readers familiar with the author’s Jonathan Grave series will remember that Irene is a recurring and supporting character in those novels. Those who like Gilstrap’s novels, crime thrillers, and novels with strong female lead characters will likely enjoy this series.
Kensington Publishing and John Gilstrap provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 27, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-----------------------------------------
My 4.5 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
May 25, 2025
This is the first book in a new series for John Gilstrap. He is a great thriller author and I always reach for his books when I get the chance.
Description:
She thought she and her loved ones would be safe here. The lovely farm nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle looks like the perfect refuge from the backstabbing maelstrom of DC politics. But this seemingly peaceful new home is anything but safe for former FBI director Rivers and her children.
Troubles begin when Irene’s 12-year-old nephew finds a dead body in a cave on the property. Grim evidence points to a long-ago murder and cover-up. Powerful forces will do anything—including kill again—to protect their interests. Soon Irene’s family is the target of the kinds of threats and intimidation she’s seen before from major crime syndicates . . . but this time, the enemy determined to tear them down is homegrown.
Then comes the attack she most fears. With everything she cares about at risk and an impossible deadline looming, Irene knows she won’t get any help from the local police force. And she’s burned too many bridges in Washington to get help from the FBI. This time, Irene Rivers is on her own.
Packed with nail-biting suspense, gripping drama, and searing intrigue, Burned Bridges takes readers into a compelling world of unseen dangers and unexpected heroes.
My Thoughts:
This series is definitely going to be a big hit for Joh Gilstrap. Former FBI Director Irene Rivers is a great character with her no-nonsense personality and distinct style. She's just formidable. After taking down a president and a bunch of leaders, her plan for a peaceful existence in West Virginia was blown up with a series of events that began with finding a body on her property. This led to a much wider problem that was full of action and violence. There is definitely lots of action and lots of tension in this book. It is a complex mystery with many facets to piece together. Irene and her family are great characters. The Rutledge family is just evil to the core. Thriller lovers are going to love this book!
Thanks to Kensington Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
She thought she and her loved ones would be safe here. The lovely farm nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle looks like the perfect refuge from the backstabbing maelstrom of DC politics. But this seemingly peaceful new home is anything but safe for former FBI director Rivers and her children.
Troubles begin when Irene’s 12-year-old nephew finds a dead body in a cave on the property. Grim evidence points to a long-ago murder and cover-up. Powerful forces will do anything—including kill again—to protect their interests. Soon Irene’s family is the target of the kinds of threats and intimidation she’s seen before from major crime syndicates . . . but this time, the enemy determined to tear them down is homegrown.
Then comes the attack she most fears. With everything she cares about at risk and an impossible deadline looming, Irene knows she won’t get any help from the local police force. And she’s burned too many bridges in Washington to get help from the FBI. This time, Irene Rivers is on her own.
Packed with nail-biting suspense, gripping drama, and searing intrigue, Burned Bridges takes readers into a compelling world of unseen dangers and unexpected heroes.
My Thoughts:
This series is definitely going to be a big hit for Joh Gilstrap. Former FBI Director Irene Rivers is a great character with her no-nonsense personality and distinct style. She's just formidable. After taking down a president and a bunch of leaders, her plan for a peaceful existence in West Virginia was blown up with a series of events that began with finding a body on her property. This led to a much wider problem that was full of action and violence. There is definitely lots of action and lots of tension in this book. It is a complex mystery with many facets to piece together. Irene and her family are great characters. The Rutledge family is just evil to the core. Thriller lovers are going to love this book!
Thanks to Kensington Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy.
January 30, 2025
I don't know if it's good or bad but Burned Bridges by John Gilstrap kept me up all night reading and enjoying what a master storyteller he is. Irene Rivers mostly known from the Jonathan Grave series but she actually appeared in a stand alone before that, is back. She now has her own series and the first book is wonderful. She is no longer head of FBI but has retired to a small rural community, but it is not easy trying to fit in and it is extra hard on her two teenagers. Ther is something really bad going on and suddenly she and her family is right in the middle of it all. I must recommend this author since he writes such a good story and his books are a pure pleasure to read. I also thank Kensington Books and Netgalley for letting me read this advance copy that will hit the shelves in the end of May 2025.
May 1, 2025
When former FBI director Irene Rivers's nephew discovers a body on her property in West Virginia, gone is the peacefulness they hoped to enjoy.
Once, that the evidence is the corpse is gathered it points to the underbelly of a powerful coal mining family.
I want to thank Kensington Publishers for send me this ARC book.
Once, that the evidence is the corpse is gathered it points to the underbelly of a powerful coal mining family.
I want to thank Kensington Publishers for send me this ARC book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
This book made my blood boil . There’s not much that makes me more angry than corruption and abuse of power, and there’s plenty of it in this small-town crime thriller. The story was really well built, and even though it took me a bit to get into it properly, once I did, I stayed up really late to finish it.
I haven’t read this author before, but I really enjoyed how he uses multiple POVs effectively to build suspense and slowly knit everything together. I also love it when male authors write strong female characters. She isn’t perfect of course — that would make it really boring — but she’s a badass who stands up for what’s right, even when she really doesn’t want to. Sometimes you’re tired of always getting involved and want to stay retired.
I’m quite intrigued by the ending of Burned Bridges, so I’m excited about the next book. There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but the main mystery/plot is resolved nicely, so it can be read as a standalone without issue.
The narrator — Natalia Payne — did a really good job with the story and the big cast of characters.
Thank you to Kensington Books, RBmedia and NetGalley for the audio ARC.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Mystery thriller
Suspense & action
Retired FBI director
Small-town drama
Private investigator
Multi POV
Single mom
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Graphic violence
Mention of terrorism
Mention of death of sibling (past)
On-page murder of minor SCs
Gun violence
Mention of disordered eating and body dysmorphia (SC)
Corruption and abuse of power
Details of murdered girl
Side character fatshamed
Details of sexual rumors/harassment of a minor (SC)
Leaked naked pictures of a minor (SC)
Arson - murder of children (few details)
Side characters murdered off page
Attempted rape of SC (teenager, on page, few details)
Child killing bad guy (on page)
Pet dog stabbed (minor injury)
Themes of child pornography (no graphic details)
Teenage SC sexually assaulted (past, detailed)
MC’s children abducted
Graphic violence
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: N/A
Other person drama: N/A
Breakup: N/A
POV: 3rd person, multi
Genre: Thriller
Pairing: N/A
Strict roles or versatile: N/A
Main characters’ age: Varied
Series: Interconnected series
Kindle Unlimited: No
Pages: 377
Happy ending: Yes
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This book made my blood boil . There’s not much that makes me more angry than corruption and abuse of power, and there’s plenty of it in this small-town crime thriller. The story was really well built, and even though it took me a bit to get into it properly, once I did, I stayed up really late to finish it.
I haven’t read this author before, but I really enjoyed how he uses multiple POVs effectively to build suspense and slowly knit everything together. I also love it when male authors write strong female characters. She isn’t perfect of course — that would make it really boring — but she’s a badass who stands up for what’s right, even when she really doesn’t want to. Sometimes you’re tired of always getting involved and want to stay retired.
I’m quite intrigued by the ending of Burned Bridges, so I’m excited about the next book. There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but the main mystery/plot is resolved nicely, so it can be read as a standalone without issue.
The narrator — Natalia Payne — did a really good job with the story and the big cast of characters.
Thank you to Kensington Books, RBmedia and NetGalley for the audio ARC.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Mystery thriller
Suspense & action
Retired FBI director
Small-town drama
Private investigator
Multi POV
Single mom
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Graphic violence
Mention of terrorism
Mention of death of sibling (past)
On-page murder of minor SCs
Gun violence
Mention of disordered eating and body dysmorphia (SC)
Corruption and abuse of power
Details of murdered girl
Side character fatshamed
Details of sexual rumors/harassment of a minor (SC)
Leaked naked pictures of a minor (SC)
Arson - murder of children (few details)
Side characters murdered off page
Attempted rape of SC (teenager, on page, few details)
Child killing bad guy (on page)
Pet dog stabbed (minor injury)
Themes of child pornography (no graphic details)
Teenage SC sexually assaulted (past, detailed)
MC’s children abducted
Graphic violence
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: N/A
Other person drama: N/A
Breakup: N/A
POV: 3rd person, multi
Genre: Thriller
Pairing: N/A
Strict roles or versatile: N/A
Main characters’ age: Varied
Series: Interconnected series
Kindle Unlimited: No
Pages: 377
Happy ending: Yes
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
April 20, 2025
I received a copy for review purposes. All opinions are honest and mine alone.
BURNED BRIDGES is book one in a new series by author, John Gilstrap. For me, this book was much more of a mystery than a thriller, altho’ there were many thrilleresque moments. Regardless of classification, it’s a great read and will keep you turning pages.
Irene Rivers is the star of this book and series to come. She’s been in other Gilstrap novels but not as the MC. In previous books, Irene was an FBI agent and then head of the FBI where she took down POTUS, most of his administration and lots of Congress. Her actions caused her to lose her job, bring major trouble to her kids and cause them to leave DC for the hills of West Virginia, seeking peace, quiet and a place to heal.
Rivers is a strong, multi dimensional character that will be an excellent anchor for a series. She is a very expensive private investigator who gets involved in trying to clear a young man who is in jail, being steamrolled for murder by the local law enforcement agencies. Further complicating events include a dead body found on her land by her nephew. Of course, this gets the local redneck gánster family riled into a full blown ruckus that includes her middle and high school kids.
Her kids are interesting characters in their own right and we are introduced to only a few other secondary characters that might be series regulars - some from law enforcement and others from the gangster family plus a potential love/like interest and a technology guru. Props to Gilstrap for not overburdening readers with a cast that’s impossible for readers to get to know in book one. Her kids were bombarded with physical and emotional trauma in this first novel. I expect this will continue to be important going forward. Irene is offered an opportunity on the very last page that’s a tiny cliffhanger to book two. It does NOT affect this storyline at all, just a teaser to get the next book.
4.5 stars rounded up because Irene Rivers is an excellent character. She’s strong, doesn’t use cheap tricks usually associated with women, cares about people and is working hard to be a good mother. Her moral compass is mostly in place and when it slips a bit, it’s to make adjustments that have been skewed unfairly by and for really bad actors. Gilstrap writes good female characters.
It’s been a long time since I was this interested in an ongoing new series📚
Read and Reviewed from a GoodReads GiveAway physical ARC, with thanks
BURNED BRIDGES is book one in a new series by author, John Gilstrap. For me, this book was much more of a mystery than a thriller, altho’ there were many thrilleresque moments. Regardless of classification, it’s a great read and will keep you turning pages.
Irene Rivers is the star of this book and series to come. She’s been in other Gilstrap novels but not as the MC. In previous books, Irene was an FBI agent and then head of the FBI where she took down POTUS, most of his administration and lots of Congress. Her actions caused her to lose her job, bring major trouble to her kids and cause them to leave DC for the hills of West Virginia, seeking peace, quiet and a place to heal.
Rivers is a strong, multi dimensional character that will be an excellent anchor for a series. She is a very expensive private investigator who gets involved in trying to clear a young man who is in jail, being steamrolled for murder by the local law enforcement agencies. Further complicating events include a dead body found on her land by her nephew. Of course, this gets the local redneck gánster family riled into a full blown ruckus that includes her middle and high school kids.
Her kids are interesting characters in their own right and we are introduced to only a few other secondary characters that might be series regulars - some from law enforcement and others from the gangster family plus a potential love/like interest and a technology guru. Props to Gilstrap for not overburdening readers with a cast that’s impossible for readers to get to know in book one. Her kids were bombarded with physical and emotional trauma in this first novel. I expect this will continue to be important going forward. Irene is offered an opportunity on the very last page that’s a tiny cliffhanger to book two. It does NOT affect this storyline at all, just a teaser to get the next book.
4.5 stars rounded up because Irene Rivers is an excellent character. She’s strong, doesn’t use cheap tricks usually associated with women, cares about people and is working hard to be a good mother. Her moral compass is mostly in place and when it slips a bit, it’s to make adjustments that have been skewed unfairly by and for really bad actors. Gilstrap writes good female characters.
It’s been a long time since I was this interested in an ongoing new series📚
Read and Reviewed from a GoodReads GiveAway physical ARC, with thanks
June 21, 2025
lrene Rivers, former head of the FBI is known to readers of Gilstrap's Jonathan Grave series. She's now retired, after a rather spectacular final case, and moved to a backwater West Virginia town to unwind along with her daughter and nephew.
The town itself however is corrupt as can be and ruled by a twisted family. Things happen and Irene will have to do what needs doing to keep her family safe.
While not as outrageous as the author's Jonathan Grave series there's plenty to like here.
The town itself however is corrupt as can be and ruled by a twisted family. Things happen and Irene will have to do what needs doing to keep her family safe.
While not as outrageous as the author's Jonathan Grave series there's plenty to like here.
August 3, 2025
Fantastic start to a new series by John Gilstrap. Irene Rivers, the former head of the FBI has quit the FBI and moved her family to rural West Virginia. Rivers is a smart kick ass person who fights to defend her family from crooked cops and the local red neck gang. In the long running Jonathan Graves series, she’s a side character with a powerful no nonsense attitude. Here she’s on her own and never gives up. What a great heroine!
June 7, 2025
Burned Bridges by John Gilstrap is a fantastic new series featuring former FBI director Irene Rivers. Irene has moved to West Virginia with her daughter and nephew trying to stay under the radar. Irene is no longer the director of the FBI after taking down the former President of the United States. Some are happy with what she uncovered and some are so angry they might seek retribution. They're living on a farm and hoping no one notices them. One day Irene's nephew, Wyatt, finds the remains of a dead body when out four wheeling on the property. The evidence shows that the body has been there a long time and someone didn't want it found. Irene's family is in the spotlight and now begins receiving all kinds of threats.
A family has reached out to Irene as their teenage son is in prison for a crime he didn't commit. The evidence looks overwhelming, but they assure Irene their son didn't kill the young woman. Irene agrees to look into it and finds a lot of things that don't add up. There are many in this town with the same last name and a lot of them are in prominent positions. One phone call here and there and voila we have evidence against someone. Irene has taken down bad guys before, but is she up to a town full of them? Everything gets a bit too real when her family is attacked and an incident occurs in their home. Will Irene be able to find out who's behind the murdered body found on her property? Why are so many people being killed that are linked to the case? Why is Irene's family in danger when that's the last thing she wanted?
How will Irene be able to find the truth with so many wanting it hidden? Will Irene be able to lean on her old contacts at the FBI after burning so many bridges? Will Irene be able to get the innocent teenager out of prison? As Irene uncovers new evidence that is irrefutable, who can she trust with it? Will Irene be able to keep her family safe when this new evidence comes out? Burned Bridges is an explosive, edge of your seat thriller that I rate 5 stars. I think this is my first John Gilstrap book, but I can't wait to read the next in this series! The book is out now and should not be missed! Irene is a fantastic lead character and I can't wait to see what life brings her in the next book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced copy of Burned Bridges in exchange for a fair review. #BurnedBridges
A family has reached out to Irene as their teenage son is in prison for a crime he didn't commit. The evidence looks overwhelming, but they assure Irene their son didn't kill the young woman. Irene agrees to look into it and finds a lot of things that don't add up. There are many in this town with the same last name and a lot of them are in prominent positions. One phone call here and there and voila we have evidence against someone. Irene has taken down bad guys before, but is she up to a town full of them? Everything gets a bit too real when her family is attacked and an incident occurs in their home. Will Irene be able to find out who's behind the murdered body found on her property? Why are so many people being killed that are linked to the case? Why is Irene's family in danger when that's the last thing she wanted?
How will Irene be able to find the truth with so many wanting it hidden? Will Irene be able to lean on her old contacts at the FBI after burning so many bridges? Will Irene be able to get the innocent teenager out of prison? As Irene uncovers new evidence that is irrefutable, who can she trust with it? Will Irene be able to keep her family safe when this new evidence comes out? Burned Bridges is an explosive, edge of your seat thriller that I rate 5 stars. I think this is my first John Gilstrap book, but I can't wait to read the next in this series! The book is out now and should not be missed! Irene is a fantastic lead character and I can't wait to see what life brings her in the next book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced copy of Burned Bridges in exchange for a fair review. #BurnedBridges
March 25, 2025
I need more Irene Rivers!
Former FBI Director Irene Rivers is a recurring character in the Jonathan Grave series by John Gilstrap. In Burned Bridges, the start of a new series, we see a different side to Irene. She burned her career in the latest book of the Jonathan Grave series. She took the President of the United States down with her. Irene has moved to rural West Virginia on property inherited from her grandparents. With her are her children, 16-year-old daughter, Kelly, and nephew 12-year-old Wyatt. Irene is trying to start over as a PI while staying under the radar with the press.
Staying under the radar is impossible once Wyatt discovers a skeleton in a cave on the property. Things are not as idyllic as they seem in the backwoods of West Virginia. Targeted in a scandal Kelly enlists help from Venice, a tech guru employee of Jonathan Grave. There is an undercurrent of danger running through Jenkins County and it has been around a long time. Something is rotten and Irene doesn’t know how far the corruption goes. When her new PI case runs afoul of the criminals in the county, she is hard-pressed to keep herself and her children safe.
Burned Bridges is a great start to an exciting new series. I loved the story and it has a different flavour than the Graves books. There is more mystery than your standard thriller but it still has plenty of action and intrigue. Irene is a competent bad-ass woman juxtaposed with her complex family situation. She is somewhat floundering with the pitfalls of raising two teenagers. This is an endearing storyline that allows us to see her as a whole person and not just a powerful woman. I laughed at many of the snarky conversations between her and her kids. The story is fast-paced and suspenseful. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read and I am eager for the next book in the series. You don’t need to read the other series to enjoy this book, but I highly recommend both series.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing for access to a digital ARC on NetGalley.
Former FBI Director Irene Rivers is a recurring character in the Jonathan Grave series by John Gilstrap. In Burned Bridges, the start of a new series, we see a different side to Irene. She burned her career in the latest book of the Jonathan Grave series. She took the President of the United States down with her. Irene has moved to rural West Virginia on property inherited from her grandparents. With her are her children, 16-year-old daughter, Kelly, and nephew 12-year-old Wyatt. Irene is trying to start over as a PI while staying under the radar with the press.
Staying under the radar is impossible once Wyatt discovers a skeleton in a cave on the property. Things are not as idyllic as they seem in the backwoods of West Virginia. Targeted in a scandal Kelly enlists help from Venice, a tech guru employee of Jonathan Grave. There is an undercurrent of danger running through Jenkins County and it has been around a long time. Something is rotten and Irene doesn’t know how far the corruption goes. When her new PI case runs afoul of the criminals in the county, she is hard-pressed to keep herself and her children safe.
Burned Bridges is a great start to an exciting new series. I loved the story and it has a different flavour than the Graves books. There is more mystery than your standard thriller but it still has plenty of action and intrigue. Irene is a competent bad-ass woman juxtaposed with her complex family situation. She is somewhat floundering with the pitfalls of raising two teenagers. This is an endearing storyline that allows us to see her as a whole person and not just a powerful woman. I laughed at many of the snarky conversations between her and her kids. The story is fast-paced and suspenseful. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read and I am eager for the next book in the series. You don’t need to read the other series to enjoy this book, but I highly recommend both series.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing for access to a digital ARC on NetGalley.
May 28, 2025
Welcome to West Virginia, Irene Rivers. Following a nasty exit from being the Director of the FBI, she wanted to dodge the wave after wave of pompous, over-made-up quasi-journalists and live an anonymous, quiet life in the country.
Her family’s move at first went awkwardly mundane with her daughter’s snarky remarks to anyone especially her little brother, causing tension. Then the discovery of a body on their property blew everything out of proportion. And the press rediscovered Irene.
The local population turned out to be a gaggle of unforgettable folks, from an uptight County Sheriff willing to throw the law at an actual lawyer, a firefighter with an unusual tendency to sniff Irene’s daughter, a mayor who gave the term politician respectability, and well several others who could only be described as unusual.
A survivor of the worst Washinton DC threw at her, Irene manages to tick off most of the influential no-goods with her wit and intellect. They have no idea how to shut her down. She may have burned bridges with DC, but she’s just starting in her new digs.
I thought I’d miss Digger and the Big Guy. While I anxiously wait for the next story with Grave and Boxers, this book was necessary to give Irene her chance to handle things in her own way. She did. Looking forward to the next chapter in Irene’s new environment.
June 18, 2025
Kickin’ butt and taking names! Irene Rivers, former FBI Director, has left Washington with her kids for a small West Virginia town after getting the President put in jail for some unspeakable crimes. Little did she know she would be trading one problem for another…and another and another. The unexpected discovery of a dead body on her property may be just the tip of the iceberg. Now a PI, Irene has been asked to help on a murder case that will have her, and her family, up against a very dangerous man who seems to have everyone in his pocket.
Irene Rivers is a strong female protagonist who will not be bullied. A force to be reckoned with, she will do what is necessary to protect her kids and take down anyone that gets in her way.
Burned Bridges is fast-paced and suspenseful with tense action that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. Don’t keep me waiting too long Mr. Gilstrap, I haven’t had nearly enough of Irene Rivers just yet.
Many thanks to Kensington and Goodreads Giveaways for a copy of this book.
Irene Rivers is a strong female protagonist who will not be bullied. A force to be reckoned with, she will do what is necessary to protect her kids and take down anyone that gets in her way.
Burned Bridges is fast-paced and suspenseful with tense action that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. Don’t keep me waiting too long Mr. Gilstrap, I haven’t had nearly enough of Irene Rivers just yet.
Many thanks to Kensington and Goodreads Giveaways for a copy of this book.
August 8, 2025
I was not sure if I was going to like reading the authors books if it did not include Digger (AKA Jonathan Graves). Mentally, I went into this book with the idea that it could not be as intriguing as the others. Of course, it took some time for the stage to be set. We had to learn why she had moved to West Virginia. We had to find out about her kids. And we had to find out about her mindset away from the FBI.
I think it was about page 90 that everything fell into place , and boy, did it ever fall into place. And, boy, did this author turn her loose. It will be interesting to see if she takes the offer made at the end,.
Well done , John Gilstrap, very well done
I think it was about page 90 that everything fell into place , and boy, did it ever fall into place. And, boy, did this author turn her loose. It will be interesting to see if she takes the offer made at the end,.
Well done , John Gilstrap, very well done
September 4, 2025
Jenkins County, West Va. Finn Rutledge is a big bad deal in 2 small rural towns. Sons Albert and Boyd, high school, are already into rape and murder.
Irene Rivers, as head of FBI, removed a treacherous president. His believers like to accuse her of treason, so she is not always welcomed. Daughter Kelly and nephew Wyatt are involved in an online scandal at school.
In addition, Irene is hired onto the legal team for murdered girl, Abigail Graham. She is already solving an old case that brings her into confrontations with Sheriff Monroe (controlled by Finn) and Crash Rutledge, Finn's brother.
Irene Rivers, as head of FBI, removed a treacherous president. His believers like to accuse her of treason, so she is not always welcomed. Daughter Kelly and nephew Wyatt are involved in an online scandal at school.
In addition, Irene is hired onto the legal team for murdered girl, Abigail Graham. She is already solving an old case that brings her into confrontations with Sheriff Monroe (controlled by Finn) and Crash Rutledge, Finn's brother.
June 4, 2025
I was so excited to hear of this new series by such an awesome author. I am still reading all of the books in the previous series with boxers and Jonathan. This author never disappoints. This book was so awesome. And to make it even better, the narrator was perfect. I sure hope she gets to narrate the rest of the books as they come out in the series. Kudos to the author. Can’t wait to read the next one.
June 25, 2025
Thank you to John Gilstrap, Kensington Booms and Goodreads for the giveaway opportunity to read Burned Bridges! Definitely a must read and feedback for Goodreads- we need to be able to give half stars because this one was definitely a 4.5!!!
I have read many thrillers but this one kept me page flipping from the get-go! A heart-pounding, non-stop ride from start to finish, I will definitely be adding more Gilstrap novels to my TBR!!
I have read many thrillers but this one kept me page flipping from the get-go! A heart-pounding, non-stop ride from start to finish, I will definitely be adding more Gilstrap novels to my TBR!!
May 9, 2025
I received Burned Bridges in a Goodreads Giveaway. I found the main characters to be unlikeable and when I thought a minor character was, they were killed off. I am sure many will like Irene Rivers and her exploits but I prefer a mystery over a shoot it out thriller.
Thank you for the bookmark Kingston Publishing.
Thank you for the bookmark Kingston Publishing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2025
Great novel! Excellent plot, some good twists, and well-developed characters. I’ll be reading more of his writing.
October 1, 2025
Audiobook
June 9, 2025
Burned Bridges is a master piece, so cool to see the author John Gilstrap take the one character from the Jonathan Graves series, who so needed her own series and then makes her so badass tough. Yup, I'm talking about Irene Rivers, such a great debut for a series, can't wait to see the author grow Sheriff Rivers, and see where this one goes.
The setting in West Virginia, oh so works, got a powerful corrupt family, owning politicians, law enforcement, even business's to look legit and sadly they under estimate Irene Rivers. Mix in her Kids, Ruger, a few characters just add to the story, strap yourself into your favorite reading chair and enjoy this hellacious read.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing, the author and netgalley for the review copy.
The setting in West Virginia, oh so works, got a powerful corrupt family, owning politicians, law enforcement, even business's to look legit and sadly they under estimate Irene Rivers. Mix in her Kids, Ruger, a few characters just add to the story, strap yourself into your favorite reading chair and enjoy this hellacious read.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing, the author and netgalley for the review copy.
May 27, 2025
4.5 Stars
I am already a huge fan of Mr. Gilstrap and his Jonathan Grave Series, so I was excited to see that there was going to be an Irene Rivers spinoff. Former FBI Director Rivers recently left her position after pretty much blowing up the Washington establishment by bringing to light all the corruption, including implicating the sitting President. To 50% of the population, she is a hero, to the other 50%, she is a traitor.
Irene has moved out of DC to a small town in West Virginia with her two children (her 17 year old daughter and her 12 year old nephew that she is raising as her own). She mistakenly thought she could just kind of fade away into private life - but that doesn't seem to be the way things happen.
To start things off, the town that she chose has been ruled by a large family whose corruption has its tenacles in every branch of the government - the police department, the mayor's office, the prosecutor's office.....and they do NOT like someone coming in and ruffling feathers.
Things start off with a bang - they find a body on her land and then the action just picks up speed with all kinds of crazy events. I really enjoyed this book and felt the level of tension just build and build until a pretty dramatic climax. Irene had already established herself as an interesting character with Mr. Gilstrap, but we really get to meet her and see what she is made of in this initial book. I also really enjoyed the kids -especially her nephew - he was the surprise character for me and boy oh boy did he surprise me.....in a good way.
So, yes. I am definitely on board with this new series and looking forward to the next book in this series. Can't wait.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone. This book will be out for publication on May 27, 2025.
I am already a huge fan of Mr. Gilstrap and his Jonathan Grave Series, so I was excited to see that there was going to be an Irene Rivers spinoff. Former FBI Director Rivers recently left her position after pretty much blowing up the Washington establishment by bringing to light all the corruption, including implicating the sitting President. To 50% of the population, she is a hero, to the other 50%, she is a traitor.
Irene has moved out of DC to a small town in West Virginia with her two children (her 17 year old daughter and her 12 year old nephew that she is raising as her own). She mistakenly thought she could just kind of fade away into private life - but that doesn't seem to be the way things happen.
To start things off, the town that she chose has been ruled by a large family whose corruption has its tenacles in every branch of the government - the police department, the mayor's office, the prosecutor's office.....and they do NOT like someone coming in and ruffling feathers.
Things start off with a bang - they find a body on her land and then the action just picks up speed with all kinds of crazy events. I really enjoyed this book and felt the level of tension just build and build until a pretty dramatic climax. Irene had already established herself as an interesting character with Mr. Gilstrap, but we really get to meet her and see what she is made of in this initial book. I also really enjoyed the kids -especially her nephew - he was the surprise character for me and boy oh boy did he surprise me.....in a good way.
So, yes. I am definitely on board with this new series and looking forward to the next book in this series. Can't wait.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone. This book will be out for publication on May 27, 2025.
May 24, 2025
I really wanted to like this but without Jonathan Graves as the protagonist, I was skeptical. I became more skeptical as the beginning of the story was SLOOOW and I could not get into the plot. At 25% I was about to make this a DNF but out of respect for the author ( I’ve loved all of John Gilstrap books thus far) I kept on for a bit more… then BOOM! The two seemingly unrelated storylines ( and a 3rd subplot) gelled and the small town corruption and nepotism plot picked up speed , intensity, and excitement. It was an electrifying read! Better yet, former FBI Director Irene Rivers (finally) found her footing and nailed her spot as a bad ass, even though she wanted to lead a quiet, reclusive, private life in retirement, I am thrilled how her character transformed. The climax was absolutely riveting and the denouement set the stage for a sequel! The dialogue, character development and plot were pitch perfect (after I got past the beginning lull). Bravo, Mr, Gilstrap! I’m so glad Irene Rivers is alive and well… and definitely NOT retired! I look forward to the next installment!
May 29, 2025
Their new start implodes when they become targets
Until recently Irene Rivers was the Director of the FBI, a hard-as-nails leader whose codename was Wolverine. When she uncovered corruption at the highest levels of government she didn't shy away from her duty and she ended up toppling the president himself, ending her own career in the process. Her actions remain highly controversial, she is either a hero or a traitor (people feel strongly one way or the other), and high levels of vitriol have been directed at her and the two children she is raising. She hoped that their move to a farm in West Virginia she inherited from her grandparents would help them all escape the fury in Washington DC and have a new start. Her teenaged daughter Kelly is not at all happy about the move (she isn't shy about showing her displeasure on a daily basis), and is not settling into her new school; her nephew Wyatt is a brilliant but unconventional 12 year old who is having his own shares of problems in school. Being connected with Irene Rivers is not earning them any points in their new town. Irene thought they could gain a measure of anonymity; instead, the skeletal remains of an unknown teenager are found stuck in a cave on her property which sets of a firestorm of public interest. She has also been approached by a local couple to act in her new capacity as a private investigator, to find proof that their son, recently arrested for the brutal murder of a teenage girl, didn't commit the crime of which he is accused. Local law enforcement has an overwhelming amount of evidence against the boy, but the parents insist that he is innocent and is being railroaded by the police. Irene reluctantly takes the case, and is troubled by what she finds. She doesn't have much support from her former colleagues, and the locals are downright hostile....and soon it is clear that she, Kelly and Wyatt's lives are in jeopardy. Can she keep her family safe and find justice for the wrongly imprisoned boy when the opposition seemingly holds all the cards?
Readers of author John Gilstrap's Jonathan Graves series know Irene Rivers well as a secondary character, one who believed in following the rules. Now that the system she led has turned on her, her attitude is changing. She's still tough as nails, but is juggling motherhood to two teenagers, starting up a new career and dealing with the continuing fallout from her final actions as FBI Director...add in a skeleton that appears to be a victim of foul play, a powerful local family that are corrupt and psychopaths (one of whom has decided that Kelly should be his girlfriend) and a compromised law enforcement community, and Irene more than has her hands full. As the plot unfolds, she has multiple balls in the air and knows that if she drops any of them her whole family will suffer. Its a page-turner that grips the reader from page one and doesn't let go, introducing some new characters (with a brief cameo by Venice from the Jonathan Graves books) while letting Irene evolve in her new roles. Fans of the original series will enjoy this spin-off, the first in what promises to be a new series, as will readers of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner and Meg Gardiner. If you like your female protagonists strong, resilient and determined, you'll like Irene Rivers. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to this intriguing novel in exchange for my honest review...I eagerly anticipate the next in the series.
Until recently Irene Rivers was the Director of the FBI, a hard-as-nails leader whose codename was Wolverine. When she uncovered corruption at the highest levels of government she didn't shy away from her duty and she ended up toppling the president himself, ending her own career in the process. Her actions remain highly controversial, she is either a hero or a traitor (people feel strongly one way or the other), and high levels of vitriol have been directed at her and the two children she is raising. She hoped that their move to a farm in West Virginia she inherited from her grandparents would help them all escape the fury in Washington DC and have a new start. Her teenaged daughter Kelly is not at all happy about the move (she isn't shy about showing her displeasure on a daily basis), and is not settling into her new school; her nephew Wyatt is a brilliant but unconventional 12 year old who is having his own shares of problems in school. Being connected with Irene Rivers is not earning them any points in their new town. Irene thought they could gain a measure of anonymity; instead, the skeletal remains of an unknown teenager are found stuck in a cave on her property which sets of a firestorm of public interest. She has also been approached by a local couple to act in her new capacity as a private investigator, to find proof that their son, recently arrested for the brutal murder of a teenage girl, didn't commit the crime of which he is accused. Local law enforcement has an overwhelming amount of evidence against the boy, but the parents insist that he is innocent and is being railroaded by the police. Irene reluctantly takes the case, and is troubled by what she finds. She doesn't have much support from her former colleagues, and the locals are downright hostile....and soon it is clear that she, Kelly and Wyatt's lives are in jeopardy. Can she keep her family safe and find justice for the wrongly imprisoned boy when the opposition seemingly holds all the cards?
Readers of author John Gilstrap's Jonathan Graves series know Irene Rivers well as a secondary character, one who believed in following the rules. Now that the system she led has turned on her, her attitude is changing. She's still tough as nails, but is juggling motherhood to two teenagers, starting up a new career and dealing with the continuing fallout from her final actions as FBI Director...add in a skeleton that appears to be a victim of foul play, a powerful local family that are corrupt and psychopaths (one of whom has decided that Kelly should be his girlfriend) and a compromised law enforcement community, and Irene more than has her hands full. As the plot unfolds, she has multiple balls in the air and knows that if she drops any of them her whole family will suffer. Its a page-turner that grips the reader from page one and doesn't let go, introducing some new characters (with a brief cameo by Venice from the Jonathan Graves books) while letting Irene evolve in her new roles. Fans of the original series will enjoy this spin-off, the first in what promises to be a new series, as will readers of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner and Meg Gardiner. If you like your female protagonists strong, resilient and determined, you'll like Irene Rivers. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to this intriguing novel in exchange for my honest review...I eagerly anticipate the next in the series.
May 28, 2025
There’s a special kind of chaos reserved for thrillers where the main character is smarter than everyone else in the room and also deeply over it. In Burned Bridges, Irene Rivers isn’t just the ex–FBI Director who took down a corrupt president — she’s the kind of woman who survives a scandal, moves her kid and her nephew to a quiet farm in West Virginia, and still manages to piss off the most dangerous people in town before unpacking all her boxes. This is the start of a new series, and if this is the tone we’re getting? I’m in. Fully. Bloodstained boots and all.
Irene’s trying to start fresh, raising her teenage daughter, Kelly, and her 12-year-old nephew, Wyatt, on her grandparents’ old property. She’s burned every political bridge behind her and is hoping for peace, but instead she gets a skeleton in a cave — discovered by Wyatt and his very good dog, Ruger. The local cops want to dismiss it as ancient history. Irene, now working as a PI, knows better. Especially when the evidence starts pointing to a long history of corruption, cover-ups, and a powerful family who’d prefer their secrets stay buried.
What Gilstrap does here is brilliant. Irene isn’t just another brilliant woman with a gun. She’s tired. She’s measured. She’s a single mother who carries the weight of every decision, including the ones that cost her kids their normal life. Her relationship with Kelly is prickly and layered. Wyatt is observant and anxious and sweet in the way of a kid who’s seen too much already. Their family unit feels lived-in and real — protective, exasperated, and trying hard not to fracture.
The stakes here are personal first, then explosive. There’s a murder to solve, yes. But there’s also an innocent local teen facing a sham trial, a sheriff who plays dumb and dangerous at the same time, and a local kingpin whose legacy drips violence. Irene doesn’t have the FBI behind her anymore. She just has her training, her stubborn moral compass, and a very real sense that no one’s coming to help.
And when it all finally ignites? It’s fast, brutal, and earned. Gilstrap gives you real-world action with zero superhero gloss. Every punch has consequences. Every bullet lands hard. The final third hits like a trapdoor you didn’t know you were standing on.
If you’re into audio, Natalia Payne is pitch-perfect. She gives Irene the steel and soul she deserves, keeps the pacing tight, and makes every character feel distinct without overplaying a single note. She delivers the dread, the snark, and the devastation with absolute precision. This is how you give voice to a thriller.
For me, this is a 4.5-star firestarter. It’s grounded, fierce, deeply personal, and smart enough to trust your brain while still punching you in the heart. I hope this series keeps going, fast, because I am not emotionally equipped to say goodbye to these characters after just one book.
Huge thanks to RBmedia and NetGalley for the advance audiobook — this one came in hot and didn’t let up, and I was all in.
Irene’s trying to start fresh, raising her teenage daughter, Kelly, and her 12-year-old nephew, Wyatt, on her grandparents’ old property. She’s burned every political bridge behind her and is hoping for peace, but instead she gets a skeleton in a cave — discovered by Wyatt and his very good dog, Ruger. The local cops want to dismiss it as ancient history. Irene, now working as a PI, knows better. Especially when the evidence starts pointing to a long history of corruption, cover-ups, and a powerful family who’d prefer their secrets stay buried.
What Gilstrap does here is brilliant. Irene isn’t just another brilliant woman with a gun. She’s tired. She’s measured. She’s a single mother who carries the weight of every decision, including the ones that cost her kids their normal life. Her relationship with Kelly is prickly and layered. Wyatt is observant and anxious and sweet in the way of a kid who’s seen too much already. Their family unit feels lived-in and real — protective, exasperated, and trying hard not to fracture.
The stakes here are personal first, then explosive. There’s a murder to solve, yes. But there’s also an innocent local teen facing a sham trial, a sheriff who plays dumb and dangerous at the same time, and a local kingpin whose legacy drips violence. Irene doesn’t have the FBI behind her anymore. She just has her training, her stubborn moral compass, and a very real sense that no one’s coming to help.
And when it all finally ignites? It’s fast, brutal, and earned. Gilstrap gives you real-world action with zero superhero gloss. Every punch has consequences. Every bullet lands hard. The final third hits like a trapdoor you didn’t know you were standing on.
If you’re into audio, Natalia Payne is pitch-perfect. She gives Irene the steel and soul she deserves, keeps the pacing tight, and makes every character feel distinct without overplaying a single note. She delivers the dread, the snark, and the devastation with absolute precision. This is how you give voice to a thriller.
For me, this is a 4.5-star firestarter. It’s grounded, fierce, deeply personal, and smart enough to trust your brain while still punching you in the heart. I hope this series keeps going, fast, because I am not emotionally equipped to say goodbye to these characters after just one book.
Huge thanks to RBmedia and NetGalley for the advance audiobook — this one came in hot and didn’t let up, and I was all in.
August 23, 2025
Dear John Gilstrap,
I was skeptical before I even picked up Burned Bridges. I searched to find out if Irene Rivers would be accompanied by her friends at Security Solutions.
I initially found it difficult to become immersed in Burned Bridges, because there were so many threads that I saw as disparate. I was determined to finish because of you, but in getting there I often turned to other books on my shelf. Finally, about halfway through the threads gained direction and it began to engage me, at which point it was completely unputdownable.
The initial problem was that Irene Rivers wasn't the Irene Rivers known from the Jonathan Grave books. I read At All Costs in 1998 but have no recollection of Irene Rivers separate from the Graves novels. In those Irene was always unmovable and determined, but now seemed more vulnerable, often questioning herself. It wasn't until Chapter 27 that it made sense.
I laughed at the inclusion of Venice. I was expecting Digger and Big Guy to swoop down in the helicopter. Venice is a stroke of genius. I hope she continues to appear as Irene's secret weapon and that Billy is taken under Venice’s wing.
4+ Stars for Burned Bridges. Please don’t forget we still look forward to more Jonathan Graves books.
I was skeptical before I even picked up Burned Bridges. I searched to find out if Irene Rivers would be accompanied by her friends at Security Solutions.
I initially found it difficult to become immersed in Burned Bridges, because there were so many threads that I saw as disparate. I was determined to finish because of you, but in getting there I often turned to other books on my shelf. Finally, about halfway through the threads gained direction and it began to engage me, at which point it was completely unputdownable.
The initial problem was that Irene Rivers wasn't the Irene Rivers known from the Jonathan Grave books. I read At All Costs in 1998 but have no recollection of Irene Rivers separate from the Graves novels. In those Irene was always unmovable and determined, but now seemed more vulnerable, often questioning herself. It wasn't until Chapter 27 that it made sense.
"Another question I have to ask," Jessica said. "Off the record as we are, this new Irene Rivers is a big step away from the old Irene Rivers, director of the FBI. Why such a big shift?"It's a good explanation but it omits that she knew and often turned a blind eye the means by which her colleague righted the wrongs, and evidently, had no distress as she employed a few of them herself.
"Off the record as we are, I used to work with a guy who saw this complex world in the simplest of ways. He saw good guys and bad guys. Justice and injustice. Right and wrong. Bureaucracies and government agencies complicate that world view sometimes to the point where you can no longer tell the difference. When I finally decided to stop looking away from all the bad things that were going on in Washington and expose all the wrongs that I know so much about, I turned a corner. And around that bend, I saw a glimpse of the world the same way my colleague did."
I laughed at the inclusion of Venice. I was expecting Digger and Big Guy to swoop down in the helicopter. Venice is a stroke of genius. I hope she continues to appear as Irene's secret weapon and that Billy is taken under Venice’s wing.
4+ Stars for Burned Bridges. Please don’t forget we still look forward to more Jonathan Graves books.
June 27, 2025
What an incredible book!
And yet, how scary to think that these things could actually be happening, RIGHT NOW, in little towns across the US! 😮😕
Irene Rivers was the head honcho at the FBI. She actually brought down the President of The United States USA…and with it, her career…
So now, she moves her teenage daughter, Kelly, and her 12 year old nephew, Wyatt (that she’s raising as her own) to a quiet, run down farm/home in West Virginia… where she hopes to decompress, relax, and maybe even enjoy life a little.
What she does NOT expect is for her nephew, and their ever loving dog, to discover a dead body on the property. One that’s obviously been there for a long time….
But, THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING!
The stuff that happens next, and then continues to happen is the actual grits of the story… and my mouth 👄 was just hanging open. 😮😮😮
I will say that there are a lot of characters in this one… and sometimes that messes me up… trying to keep them straight.
That did not happen here. They are all clear cut, and have their own agendas… literally!
This seems to be the beginning of a new series for this author, and I look forward to reading more!
This is only the 2nd book I’ve read of his, and it looks like I might have to go back and invest some time in this gifted author! (At least when my TBR list gets a bit shorter!) But, his books are definitely worth the read!! 😁🤣
#BurnedBridges by #JohnGilstrap. Narrated beautifully by #NataliaPayne.
5 big, bright, crazy-townsfolk, shenanigans-laden 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for me!
*** RELEASE DATE WAS MAY 27, 2025 !! ***
***SO LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON SHELVES NOW!!!!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #RBMedia and #RecordedBooksAudio for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
And yet, how scary to think that these things could actually be happening, RIGHT NOW, in little towns across the US! 😮😕
Irene Rivers was the head honcho at the FBI. She actually brought down the President of The United States USA…and with it, her career…
So now, she moves her teenage daughter, Kelly, and her 12 year old nephew, Wyatt (that she’s raising as her own) to a quiet, run down farm/home in West Virginia… where she hopes to decompress, relax, and maybe even enjoy life a little.
What she does NOT expect is for her nephew, and their ever loving dog, to discover a dead body on the property. One that’s obviously been there for a long time….
But, THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING!
The stuff that happens next, and then continues to happen is the actual grits of the story… and my mouth 👄 was just hanging open. 😮😮😮
I will say that there are a lot of characters in this one… and sometimes that messes me up… trying to keep them straight.
That did not happen here. They are all clear cut, and have their own agendas… literally!
This seems to be the beginning of a new series for this author, and I look forward to reading more!
This is only the 2nd book I’ve read of his, and it looks like I might have to go back and invest some time in this gifted author! (At least when my TBR list gets a bit shorter!) But, his books are definitely worth the read!! 😁🤣
#BurnedBridges by #JohnGilstrap. Narrated beautifully by #NataliaPayne.
5 big, bright, crazy-townsfolk, shenanigans-laden 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for me!
*** RELEASE DATE WAS MAY 27, 2025 !! ***
***SO LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON SHELVES NOW!!!!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #RBMedia and #RecordedBooksAudio for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
June 28, 2025
Burned Bridges by John Gilstrap
Irene Rivers #1
~ Excellent introduction to new series ~ Up till 2:30 this morning ~ Couldn’t put it down ~
What I liked:
* Irene Rivers: Ex-FBI Director, brought down corrupt US President and cronies, mother of two daughters and guardian of her nephew, private investigator & Lawyer, intelligent, quick, problem solver, loves her children, networks, intriguing
* Ashley Rivers: Irene’s daughter, 21, paralegal, independent, will she show up later?
* Kelly Rivers: Irene’s youngest daughter, 17, unhappy with the move, big part of the story
* Wyatt Gordon: Irene’s nephew, 12, orphan, a bit of a loner, wise, big part of the story
* Ruger: Wyatt’s black labrador, birthday gift from Irene, protective, active, wonderful
* The stories of Colin Franc & Mark Hamilton and how their stories were related to the crimes in the story.
*Venice: comuter wizard, works with Jonathan Graves, talented person to be able to call on
* Maryanne-pathologist and Marci-works in lab: friends, working together to save evidence, honest
* Billy-college graduate who works with Maryann on autopsies and wants to get into a job using his computer skills – hope to see him again
* Hank: wealthy, pilot, interesting, possible love-interest for Irene
* Amos Greencastle: Polie Chief, an upright man, helpful
* Judge Tuttle: makes a surprise visit at the end of the book that sets up what may take place next
* The intricate plot, impeccable pacing, setting in West Virginia, and excellent story telling
* That I was drawn in, cared about the characters, and felt part of the story
* That I could hate the bad guys and wish Karma’s wrath on all of them
* That I know there is another book on the way
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* The degree of darkness, corruption, and evil in more than one character in the book and knowing that there are people as evil as those I this story
Did I Like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Irene Rivers #1
~ Excellent introduction to new series ~ Up till 2:30 this morning ~ Couldn’t put it down ~
What I liked:
* Irene Rivers: Ex-FBI Director, brought down corrupt US President and cronies, mother of two daughters and guardian of her nephew, private investigator & Lawyer, intelligent, quick, problem solver, loves her children, networks, intriguing
* Ashley Rivers: Irene’s daughter, 21, paralegal, independent, will she show up later?
* Kelly Rivers: Irene’s youngest daughter, 17, unhappy with the move, big part of the story
* Wyatt Gordon: Irene’s nephew, 12, orphan, a bit of a loner, wise, big part of the story
* Ruger: Wyatt’s black labrador, birthday gift from Irene, protective, active, wonderful
* The stories of Colin Franc & Mark Hamilton and how their stories were related to the crimes in the story.
*Venice: comuter wizard, works with Jonathan Graves, talented person to be able to call on
* Maryanne-pathologist and Marci-works in lab: friends, working together to save evidence, honest
* Billy-college graduate who works with Maryann on autopsies and wants to get into a job using his computer skills – hope to see him again
* Hank: wealthy, pilot, interesting, possible love-interest for Irene
* Amos Greencastle: Polie Chief, an upright man, helpful
* Judge Tuttle: makes a surprise visit at the end of the book that sets up what may take place next
* The intricate plot, impeccable pacing, setting in West Virginia, and excellent story telling
* That I was drawn in, cared about the characters, and felt part of the story
* That I could hate the bad guys and wish Karma’s wrath on all of them
* That I know there is another book on the way
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* The degree of darkness, corruption, and evil in more than one character in the book and knowing that there are people as evil as those I this story
Did I Like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
February 7, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC. .
Burned Bridges by John Gilstrap is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is a truly enjoyable read.
Gilstrap is a master of the thriller genre, and this book is no exception.
He has created a complex and compelling protagonist in Irene Rivers, a former FBI Director who is trying to escape her past. The Irene Rivers character is one of my favorites in the mystery / police procedural genres; I love how Gilstrap puts her in seemingly insurmountable situations, requiring her to react with outside-the-box resolutions
Irene's past catches up with her in the small town of Lost Creek, West Virginia, where she is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy.
The plot of Burned Bridges is intricate and fast-paced, and Gilstrap does a great job of building suspense. The characters are well-developed and believable, and the dialogue is sharp and realistic. The action scenes are exciting and extremely well-written.
Irene Rivers is a sympathetic character, a hero we can cheer for and relate to. and her journey of self discovery is compelling and inspiring. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, and they add depth and complexity to this story.
Burned Bridges is an excellent thriller that will appeal to John Gilstrap fans, and any reader who is looking for a suspenseful and thought-provoking top quality novel.
This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys action-packed thrillers with complex characters and compelling themes.
I loved Burned Bridges, and I hope Gilstrap continues developing this character and giving her a series of her own - we need more strong female heroes.
I rated this book five out of five stars.
Burned Bridges by John Gilstrap is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is a truly enjoyable read.
Gilstrap is a master of the thriller genre, and this book is no exception.
He has created a complex and compelling protagonist in Irene Rivers, a former FBI Director who is trying to escape her past. The Irene Rivers character is one of my favorites in the mystery / police procedural genres; I love how Gilstrap puts her in seemingly insurmountable situations, requiring her to react with outside-the-box resolutions
Irene's past catches up with her in the small town of Lost Creek, West Virginia, where she is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy.
The plot of Burned Bridges is intricate and fast-paced, and Gilstrap does a great job of building suspense. The characters are well-developed and believable, and the dialogue is sharp and realistic. The action scenes are exciting and extremely well-written.
Irene Rivers is a sympathetic character, a hero we can cheer for and relate to. and her journey of self discovery is compelling and inspiring. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, and they add depth and complexity to this story.
Burned Bridges is an excellent thriller that will appeal to John Gilstrap fans, and any reader who is looking for a suspenseful and thought-provoking top quality novel.
This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys action-packed thrillers with complex characters and compelling themes.
I loved Burned Bridges, and I hope Gilstrap continues developing this character and giving her a series of her own - we need more strong female heroes.
I rated this book five out of five stars.
November 7, 2025
Book Review — Burned Bridges — John Gilstrap
Author John Gilstrap launched a new series featuring former FBI Director Irene Rivers from the stellar Jonathan Grave series with the first novel entitled, “Burned Bridges.”
Upon retiring from the FBI, Rivers retreats to a quiet farm in West Virginia only to discover that peace is an illusion when she gets entangled in a local power struggle, layered mysterious cover-ups, and unexpected violence when a long-hidden corpse is discovered.
Rivers, the lead character, is definitely the book’s most notable strength. She isn’t a flawless super-agent; she’s weary character that is protective of her family, conscious of sacrifices, and operating in a small community without the official backing she once commanded as the FBI Director.
The family dynamic in the storyline gives the book some solid emotional grounding beyond the action.
Gilstrap, known for his rapid-paced action thrillers, delivers on that front in this narrative as well.
The rural setting in West Virginia gives a fresh and different backdrop. The stakes and suspense feel personal, and the finale hits hard like an unexpected punch.
The combination of a local small-town criminal network, a strong protagonist with everything to lose, and mounting pressure from all sides kept the momentum brisk and my curiosity engaged.
Burned Bridges is a well-crafted, suspenseful thriller with a compelling lead character and a high stakes storyline.
I enjoyed the action-rich plot and the strong female protagonist in Irene Rivers.
The somewhat heavy layering of the plot at the beginning kept it from being perfect, but the ending more than adequately redeems the slow build up.
I’m incline to continue the series and do recommend it to thriller readers.
Author John Gilstrap launched a new series featuring former FBI Director Irene Rivers from the stellar Jonathan Grave series with the first novel entitled, “Burned Bridges.”
Upon retiring from the FBI, Rivers retreats to a quiet farm in West Virginia only to discover that peace is an illusion when she gets entangled in a local power struggle, layered mysterious cover-ups, and unexpected violence when a long-hidden corpse is discovered.
Rivers, the lead character, is definitely the book’s most notable strength. She isn’t a flawless super-agent; she’s weary character that is protective of her family, conscious of sacrifices, and operating in a small community without the official backing she once commanded as the FBI Director.
The family dynamic in the storyline gives the book some solid emotional grounding beyond the action.
Gilstrap, known for his rapid-paced action thrillers, delivers on that front in this narrative as well.
The rural setting in West Virginia gives a fresh and different backdrop. The stakes and suspense feel personal, and the finale hits hard like an unexpected punch.
The combination of a local small-town criminal network, a strong protagonist with everything to lose, and mounting pressure from all sides kept the momentum brisk and my curiosity engaged.
Burned Bridges is a well-crafted, suspenseful thriller with a compelling lead character and a high stakes storyline.
I enjoyed the action-rich plot and the strong female protagonist in Irene Rivers.
The somewhat heavy layering of the plot at the beginning kept it from being perfect, but the ending more than adequately redeems the slow build up.
I’m incline to continue the series and do recommend it to thriller readers.
June 5, 2025
John Gilstrap’s Burned Bridges still has me reeling long after finishing the novel; combined with a giggle or two, when I think of the family dynamic present in Irene Rivers’ (the protagonist’s) world.
This book was the first in the new Irene Rivers series, which is an offshoot after her being of Codename: Wolverine and Johnathan Grave series fame. It follows the former FBI director that is best known for her polarizing takedown of the sitting president on charges of corruption as she settles into civilian life in rural West Virginia, with her daughter and adopted nephew.
As her kids get a rocky start in school, so, too, does Irene in her private detection firm that she’s just launched. Her first clients are the parents of a kid who has a seeming mountain of evidence stacked against him. So much so that Irene tried to dissuade his parents from hiring her to do due diligence on said evidence, which his firm of attorneys were either too lazy or too underwhelmed to perform.
This is just the Jenkins County way.
As Irene delves deeper into her client’s charges and “evidence”, more dangerous things start happening, almost as if to warn her away. Eventually, the danger passes the tipping point, and Irene realizes what is Actually going on. But can she stop anything without anyone else to lean on, and no backup to call upon?
This is an amazing start to a new series for Gilstrap, and I can’t wait to read the next episode!!
Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media and Recorded Books for this audio ARC!!
This book was the first in the new Irene Rivers series, which is an offshoot after her being of Codename: Wolverine and Johnathan Grave series fame. It follows the former FBI director that is best known for her polarizing takedown of the sitting president on charges of corruption as she settles into civilian life in rural West Virginia, with her daughter and adopted nephew.
As her kids get a rocky start in school, so, too, does Irene in her private detection firm that she’s just launched. Her first clients are the parents of a kid who has a seeming mountain of evidence stacked against him. So much so that Irene tried to dissuade his parents from hiring her to do due diligence on said evidence, which his firm of attorneys were either too lazy or too underwhelmed to perform.
This is just the Jenkins County way.
As Irene delves deeper into her client’s charges and “evidence”, more dangerous things start happening, almost as if to warn her away. Eventually, the danger passes the tipping point, and Irene realizes what is Actually going on. But can she stop anything without anyone else to lean on, and no backup to call upon?
This is an amazing start to a new series for Gilstrap, and I can’t wait to read the next episode!!
Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media and Recorded Books for this audio ARC!!
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