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Journey Russo FBI Mystery #8
Journey's Betrayal
Dead men can’t tell secrets.
FBI Special Agent Journey Russo always suspected the truth was shrouded in flames. Her family’s deaths were no accident — the fire that consumed her parents and sister was arson. But the official report called it an accident. Why? Who was being protected? Journey intends to find out.
Except the man who holds the answers has been silenced forever.
DNA evidence points to another man — another dead man — his body found the following night. A page from the same twisted scripture impaled through his heart with a pencil.
This is no holy book. It’s a manifesto of terror.
As the body count rises, a simple investigation into the murder of a retired ATF agent morphs into a series of killings by a mob-like group. One that might have murdered Journey’s parents and set fire to her apartment. Journey’s determined to root out the killer at the source. But as she digs deeper into the case, she may be digging her own grave.
Say your prayers. Because Journey’s Betrayal, book eight of the Journey Russo series by bestselling author Mary Stone, is a holy terror you’ll never forget.
FBI Special Agent Journey Russo always suspected the truth was shrouded in flames. Her family’s deaths were no accident — the fire that consumed her parents and sister was arson. But the official report called it an accident. Why? Who was being protected? Journey intends to find out.
Except the man who holds the answers has been silenced forever.
DNA evidence points to another man — another dead man — his body found the following night. A page from the same twisted scripture impaled through his heart with a pencil.
This is no holy book. It’s a manifesto of terror.
As the body count rises, a simple investigation into the murder of a retired ATF agent morphs into a series of killings by a mob-like group. One that might have murdered Journey’s parents and set fire to her apartment. Journey’s determined to root out the killer at the source. But as she digs deeper into the case, she may be digging her own grave.
Say your prayers. Because Journey’s Betrayal, book eight of the Journey Russo series by bestselling author Mary Stone, is a holy terror you’ll never forget.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2024
494 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Mary Stone
216 books2,135 followersTo download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 8, 2025
Journey’s Betrayal is the eighth installment in the Journey Russo FBI Mystery series by Mary Stone and Amy Wilson. This is another fast paced story with lots of twist and turns. Will journey find out who killed her family? Stay tune for the next book. A must read series.
January 1, 2025
**A Taut Thriller with Twists and Turns**
Mary Stone's "Journey's Betrayal," the eighth book in the Journey Russo series, is a **fast-paced and engaging thriller** that plunges the reader into a world of secrets, violence, and a relentless search for truth. From the very first page, the story grips you with a sense of foreboding, hinting at a past that refuses to stay buried. This installment sees FBI Special Agent Journey Russo facing a deeply personal case that threatens to consume her, as she questions everything she thought she knew about her family's past.
The narrative opens with a shocking discovery: the murder of a retired ATF agent, Andrew Garvin. This seemingly isolated incident quickly escalates, revealing a web of connections to a dangerous group known as The Chosen. The investigation morphs into something far more sinister, with Journey uncovering links to her own family's tragic deaths, which were initially ruled as accidental. This sets the stage for a **high-stakes investigation**, where the lines between the past and present, and between personal vendetta and justice, become blurred.
**Compelling Characters**
At the heart of the story is Journey Russo, a determined and complex protagonist. Her unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth is both admirable and, at times, self-destructive. The emotional weight of her past fuels her actions, making her a compelling character to follow. The reader gets a sense of her internal struggles as she tries to balance her professional duties with her personal quest for answers.
The supporting characters in "Journey's Betrayal" also add depth to the narrative. Lucas Sullivan, Journey's partner, provides a much-needed counterpoint to her intensity. Their interactions are realistic, and their banter offers moments of levity amidst the darkness of the case. Journey's sister, Michelle Timmer, also plays a key role, using her expertise as a CSI to help unravel the complex clues. The dynamic between the sisters is well-developed, with moments of both professional collaboration and genuine personal concern for one another. The author also introduces a host of other characters who are all well developed and add layers of complexity to the unfolding story.
**Intricate Plot and Pacing**
The plot of "Journey's Betrayal" is skillfully constructed, with layers of intrigue and unexpected twists. The pacing is relentless, with the story moving seamlessly between crime scenes, investigations, and personal revelations. Stone expertly weaves together the various threads of the story, keeping the reader guessing about the true nature of the threat and the identity of the perpetrator. The story is full of red herrings and unexpected turns, and each chapter seems to reveal another layer of deceit.
The inclusion of *The Grimoire*, the holy book of The Chosen, adds a unique element of mystery and menace to the story. Its sinister passages and the fanaticism of the cult members create a sense of impending doom and further enhance the dark atmosphere of the book. The details of the crime scenes are vivid and compelling, and the procedural aspects of the investigation are carefully explained.
**Themes of Justice and Revenge**
"Journey's Betrayal" explores several important themes, including the search for justice and the destructive nature of revenge. Journey's pursuit of the truth is driven by a deep-seated need to avenge her family's deaths, even as she struggles to maintain her objectivity. The book raises questions about the lengths to which people will go for their beliefs and the consequences of unchecked fanaticism.
The story also touches on the themes of loss and grief, highlighting the lasting impact of violence on individuals and communities. It shows how past traumas can continue to shape the present and affect people’s choices. The novel explores the complex motivations of both the victims and the perpetrators of the violence, showcasing the varied reasons people commit acts of violence, and the tragic consequences that ensue.
**A Gripping Read**
"Journey's Betrayal" is a **must-read for fans of crime thrillers and suspenseful mysteries**. Mary Stone's writing is sharp, with a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating tension. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged until the very end. The author has created a world that is both believable and suspenseful, with characters that are flawed but compelling.
Here are some of the elements that make this book a page-turner:
* **Intricate Plot:** The story is full of interconnected threads that keep you guessing.
* **Compelling Characters:** The characters are realistic, with well-developed motivations.
* **Fast Pacing:** The action moves quickly, making it difficult to put the book down.
* **Dark Atmosphere:** The themes of violence and religious fanaticism create a suspenseful and ominous mood.
* **Emotional Depth:** The story explores the personal impact of violence and loss.
"Journey's Betrayal" is a **well-written and exciting thriller** that will leave you on the edge of your seat. It's a book that is difficult to put down, and will keep you thinking long after you've finished the last page. It’s a worthy addition to the Journey Russo series and a testament to Mary Stone’s talent for crafting compelling and suspenseful stories. If you are looking for a book that will keep you hooked and guessing, then "Journey's Betrayal" is the book for you.
Mary Stone's "Journey's Betrayal," the eighth book in the Journey Russo series, is a **fast-paced and engaging thriller** that plunges the reader into a world of secrets, violence, and a relentless search for truth. From the very first page, the story grips you with a sense of foreboding, hinting at a past that refuses to stay buried. This installment sees FBI Special Agent Journey Russo facing a deeply personal case that threatens to consume her, as she questions everything she thought she knew about her family's past.
The narrative opens with a shocking discovery: the murder of a retired ATF agent, Andrew Garvin. This seemingly isolated incident quickly escalates, revealing a web of connections to a dangerous group known as The Chosen. The investigation morphs into something far more sinister, with Journey uncovering links to her own family's tragic deaths, which were initially ruled as accidental. This sets the stage for a **high-stakes investigation**, where the lines between the past and present, and between personal vendetta and justice, become blurred.
**Compelling Characters**
At the heart of the story is Journey Russo, a determined and complex protagonist. Her unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth is both admirable and, at times, self-destructive. The emotional weight of her past fuels her actions, making her a compelling character to follow. The reader gets a sense of her internal struggles as she tries to balance her professional duties with her personal quest for answers.
The supporting characters in "Journey's Betrayal" also add depth to the narrative. Lucas Sullivan, Journey's partner, provides a much-needed counterpoint to her intensity. Their interactions are realistic, and their banter offers moments of levity amidst the darkness of the case. Journey's sister, Michelle Timmer, also plays a key role, using her expertise as a CSI to help unravel the complex clues. The dynamic between the sisters is well-developed, with moments of both professional collaboration and genuine personal concern for one another. The author also introduces a host of other characters who are all well developed and add layers of complexity to the unfolding story.
**Intricate Plot and Pacing**
The plot of "Journey's Betrayal" is skillfully constructed, with layers of intrigue and unexpected twists. The pacing is relentless, with the story moving seamlessly between crime scenes, investigations, and personal revelations. Stone expertly weaves together the various threads of the story, keeping the reader guessing about the true nature of the threat and the identity of the perpetrator. The story is full of red herrings and unexpected turns, and each chapter seems to reveal another layer of deceit.
The inclusion of *The Grimoire*, the holy book of The Chosen, adds a unique element of mystery and menace to the story. Its sinister passages and the fanaticism of the cult members create a sense of impending doom and further enhance the dark atmosphere of the book. The details of the crime scenes are vivid and compelling, and the procedural aspects of the investigation are carefully explained.
**Themes of Justice and Revenge**
"Journey's Betrayal" explores several important themes, including the search for justice and the destructive nature of revenge. Journey's pursuit of the truth is driven by a deep-seated need to avenge her family's deaths, even as she struggles to maintain her objectivity. The book raises questions about the lengths to which people will go for their beliefs and the consequences of unchecked fanaticism.
The story also touches on the themes of loss and grief, highlighting the lasting impact of violence on individuals and communities. It shows how past traumas can continue to shape the present and affect people’s choices. The novel explores the complex motivations of both the victims and the perpetrators of the violence, showcasing the varied reasons people commit acts of violence, and the tragic consequences that ensue.
**A Gripping Read**
"Journey's Betrayal" is a **must-read for fans of crime thrillers and suspenseful mysteries**. Mary Stone's writing is sharp, with a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating tension. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged until the very end. The author has created a world that is both believable and suspenseful, with characters that are flawed but compelling.
Here are some of the elements that make this book a page-turner:
* **Intricate Plot:** The story is full of interconnected threads that keep you guessing.
* **Compelling Characters:** The characters are realistic, with well-developed motivations.
* **Fast Pacing:** The action moves quickly, making it difficult to put the book down.
* **Dark Atmosphere:** The themes of violence and religious fanaticism create a suspenseful and ominous mood.
* **Emotional Depth:** The story explores the personal impact of violence and loss.
"Journey's Betrayal" is a **well-written and exciting thriller** that will leave you on the edge of your seat. It's a book that is difficult to put down, and will keep you thinking long after you've finished the last page. It’s a worthy addition to the Journey Russo series and a testament to Mary Stone’s talent for crafting compelling and suspenseful stories. If you are looking for a book that will keep you hooked and guessing, then "Journey's Betrayal" is the book for you.
January 2, 2025
JOURNEY’S BETRAYAL is the eighth installment to Mary Stone's and Amy Wilson's their "Journey Russo FBI Mystery Series". These two authors know how to write fast-paced, page turning thrillers that draw the reader right into their frightening stories.
Journey is still living with her sister after her home was destroyed by fire. Fire she's sure was caused by the same people that burned her childhood home down with her parents and sister inside - The Chosen. Before Journey can talk to the Fire Investigator that that ruled that fire as accidental, he's murdered. Did The Chosen order his murder? Then there's another murder followed by two more. It looks like all four were members of the First Gathering of the Righteous Church, aka The Chosen. Clues keep indicating that tools for the war are stored in the church basement. What are these tools, guns, bombs, nuclear? Journey is so set on revenge against The Chosen, she even agrees to her "sister', Michelle, going undercover into the church. Could this be mistake?
I hate doing it, but only 4 stars as I found it out of character for these authors to have inexperienced Michelle, who's worried about being caught, sneaking around the church, and on her first visit, asking questions about the basement and wanting to help in their battle of Good. Experienced Journey I could accept, but not Michelle.
I wish I could get the next book right away before Pittsburgh lights up. All said, this is another fast-paced, thrilling story with twists and turns that will not disappoint.
I did receive a copy of this book from the authors, and this is my freely given and honest review.
Journey is still living with her sister after her home was destroyed by fire. Fire she's sure was caused by the same people that burned her childhood home down with her parents and sister inside - The Chosen. Before Journey can talk to the Fire Investigator that that ruled that fire as accidental, he's murdered. Did The Chosen order his murder? Then there's another murder followed by two more. It looks like all four were members of the First Gathering of the Righteous Church, aka The Chosen. Clues keep indicating that tools for the war are stored in the church basement. What are these tools, guns, bombs, nuclear? Journey is so set on revenge against The Chosen, she even agrees to her "sister', Michelle, going undercover into the church. Could this be mistake?
I hate doing it, but only 4 stars as I found it out of character for these authors to have inexperienced Michelle, who's worried about being caught, sneaking around the church, and on her first visit, asking questions about the basement and wanting to help in their battle of Good. Experienced Journey I could accept, but not Michelle.
I wish I could get the next book right away before Pittsburgh lights up. All said, this is another fast-paced, thrilling story with twists and turns that will not disappoint.
I did receive a copy of this book from the authors, and this is my freely given and honest review.
December 25, 2024
A poor broken man who turns into a killer, a charismatic cult leader who turns people into potential killers, and a missing cache of weapons leads you through quite a maze. Journey and her partner Lucas are charged with finding a killer who has murdered at least three people. But the cult known as the Chosen keeps coming into the mix. Journey is well aware of this cult. She knows this cult well. Journey believes that they killed her entire family, and she has even gone undercover to investigate them. They thought they cut the head of the viper off but another head, Connor Leopold, has taken over. He is more dangerous and charismatic and is attracting followers all over the country. This is fast-paced and a good read. Some of the characters are very human and some are downright scary. The ending promises another book and lots of danger ahead. Good read.
December 27, 2024
Snore
This story could have been told in 30 minutes and still would have been boring. The Chosen Cult is boring. Please let Journey solve a different crime. She sent Michelle into the church right after Journey and partner had questioned the cult leader. Who wouldn't be suspicious of Michelle asking questions about what's in the basement on her first and only visit? Why didn't they think the church would be wired with cameras and mics for trespassers? Why was Michelle sneaking around the church, especially when she was so worried about being kidnapped again and being field rusty and not time to learn her IT cover story?
Sorry, but I can't continue to read this series .
This story could have been told in 30 minutes and still would have been boring. The Chosen Cult is boring. Please let Journey solve a different crime. She sent Michelle into the church right after Journey and partner had questioned the cult leader. Who wouldn't be suspicious of Michelle asking questions about what's in the basement on her first and only visit? Why didn't they think the church would be wired with cameras and mics for trespassers? Why was Michelle sneaking around the church, especially when she was so worried about being kidnapped again and being field rusty and not time to learn her IT cover story?
Sorry, but I can't continue to read this series .
December 24, 2024
Mary Stone and Amy Wilson have delivered another fascinating read in Journey’s Betrayal. Journey Russo and her partner, Lucas Sullivan, continue to investigate the workings of The Chosen, the cult responsible for the murders of Journey’s family. Working on solving the killings of Chosen members and probing into the depths of the Church building Journey and Lucas have their hands full. The Chosen are particularly scary with the violence they preach and are they on a Doomsday mission? The authors writing skills keep the reader in suspense as the story unfolds!
Cannot wait for the next in this series!
Cannot wait for the next in this series!
December 27, 2024
Who murdered Journey Russo's family? It wasn't Andrew Garvin, the ATF investigator who claimed the fire wasn't arson. When Journey finds The Chosen's 'so called evil bible' The Grimoire, open and pages torn out. The next crime scene has a copy of it also. Who is pulling the murderous strings to continue to murder people of The Chosen Cult? How many will be killed, why, what started it and how will it end?
Journeys Series is a great Series to read. If you haven't started reading it before now you should.
Honestly anything Mary Stone writes is a great read.
Journeys Series is a great Series to read. If you haven't started reading it before now you should.
Honestly anything Mary Stone writes is a great read.
December 25, 2024
Journey is still looking for confirmation that “The Chosen” are responsible for the fire that took her family and their home. She sets up an appointment to meet with the Fire Marshall that wrote the report that claimed it was an accident. Before her scheduled meet with him, a body is found, and it’s the Fire Marshall. Another dead end in her search……but as information and another dead body are discovered, she is starting to see the whole picture.
Exciting book to read !
Exciting book to read !
December 26, 2024
FBI agent Journey Russo always knew The Chosen killed her parents in their house fire, but why was the cause covered up & by who? She tracts down the Fire Inspector & 2 weeks later, he is murdered. Was he a member of the cult? Mysteriously other members are being murdered, who is behind it? So many questions, will Journey be able to solve these murders & a key to her past. A fast read that won't disappoint & keep you wanting more!
March 5, 2025
Being driven in circles doesn't solve the problems
Good read. The team had their hurdles in this book. Seemed they were a dollar short and a day late. Every time Journey or Luke thought they were on to something it didn't happen. Even now with they killings solved the Chosen are a head.
Good read. The team had their hurdles in this book. Seemed they were a dollar short and a day late. Every time Journey or Luke thought they were on to something it didn't happen. Even now with they killings solved the Chosen are a head.
December 24, 2024
A GREAT BOOK THAT IS WELL WRITTEN AND WILL KEEP YOU ENGROSSED TILL THE LAST PAGE. THE STORYLINE IS ORIGINAL WITH PLENTY OF TWISTS AND TURNS TO KEEP YOU TURNING THE PAGES TILL THE END. THE CHARACTERS ARE GREAT AND BECOME YOUR FRIENDS DURING THE BOOK. WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK FOR?
December 26, 2024
This awesome story about Journeys past and future cases seem to be connected to the cult the Chosen and trying to find answers who is responsible and bringing justice. This story had lots of suspense and action. Thank you Mary and Amy.
December 29, 2024
more complicated and creepy
The Chosen are gearing up for something, and even non-congregants are noticing.
The investigator who filed the report on the fire that killed Journey’s family, long retired, is killed before Journey can talk to him, and more deaths follow.
The Chosen are gearing up for something, and even non-congregants are noticing.
The investigator who filed the report on the fire that killed Journey’s family, long retired, is killed before Journey can talk to him, and more deaths follow.
January 30, 2025
The suspense is increasing
I like the build up what was coming only to have to wait for the next book. Very well written. Should interest every conspiracy buffs about the governments activities.
I like the build up what was coming only to have to wait for the next book. Very well written. Should interest every conspiracy buffs about the governments activities.
August 11, 2025
Unique Religion
The story was interesting. It reminded me of what has happened in the past regarding unique religions. Lucas and Journey certainly had their workout trying to find the killers. Very difficult when there are no real clues left.
The story was interesting. It reminded me of what has happened in the past regarding unique religions. Lucas and Journey certainly had their workout trying to find the killers. Very difficult when there are no real clues left.
December 26, 2024
The story was ok. Not my favorite in this series.
December 28, 2024
This book had me on the edge of my seat, action from start to finish.
December 30, 2024
Good
Interesting and fast moving. The typical intrigue and a little gore. I like the characters but can't quiet get a handle on Lucas, Journeys partner.
Interesting and fast moving. The typical intrigue and a little gore. I like the characters but can't quiet get a handle on Lucas, Journeys partner.
January 1, 2025
Journey's Betrayal
In true Mary Stone fashion, this book kept me captivated from beginning to end. Leaving me wanting more. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
In true Mary Stone fashion, this book kept me captivated from beginning to end. Leaving me wanting more. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
January 4, 2025
This is book eight in the Journey Russo FBI Mystery series. It kept me on the edge of my seat and fully invested! It’s fast paced, intriguing, action packed and full of suspense. A must read.
May 7, 2025
Great twist
I enjoyed the build up through the book talking about the basement of the church. When it all came out I was surprised by how it all came out
I enjoyed the build up through the book talking about the basement of the church. When it all came out I was surprised by how it all came out
January 8, 2025
A good book with twists and turns. An ending that makes you look forward to the next one. Can't wait until the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews