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Granger Spy Novel #1
Blood Line
Blood Line is a high-voltage spy thriller that redefines rogue—the Granger Spy Novel series introduces a loving family with lethal issues caught in the crosshairs of global arms dealers.
When a simple home invasion turns out to be not so simple, Ron Granger must put aside his quiet rural life and return to the Central Intelligence Agency.
Aided by his brilliant wife, Valerie, and resourceful teen daughter, Leecy, Ron must quickly decide who to believe among the calculating opportunists, shrewd criminals, and power-hungry rival agencies racing to possess the technology that will change modern warfare forever. But when Leecy is kidnapped, Ron and Val must choose between the mission and a rescue. With time quickly running out, Ron only knows one thing:
When you can’t trust anyone else, trust your family.
2015 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Reader's Favorite Award in Mystery/Thriller 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner in Fiction-Action for Excellence in Writing 2015 eLit Digital Book Award - Gold Medal in Popular Fiction & Silver Medal in Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
When a simple home invasion turns out to be not so simple, Ron Granger must put aside his quiet rural life and return to the Central Intelligence Agency.
Aided by his brilliant wife, Valerie, and resourceful teen daughter, Leecy, Ron must quickly decide who to believe among the calculating opportunists, shrewd criminals, and power-hungry rival agencies racing to possess the technology that will change modern warfare forever. But when Leecy is kidnapped, Ron and Val must choose between the mission and a rescue. With time quickly running out, Ron only knows one thing:
When you can’t trust anyone else, trust your family.
2015 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Reader's Favorite Award in Mystery/Thriller 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner in Fiction-Action for Excellence in Writing 2015 eLit Digital Book Award - Gold Medal in Popular Fiction & Silver Medal in Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
300 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
198 people are currently reading
3784 people want to read
About the author
John J. Davis
4 books576 followers"Davis sets a solid foundation for more adventures." -Kirkus Reviews
"Davis has done what few authors have accomplished in many years; he has written a suspense thriller that can be read and enjoyed by the entire family, and for that, he is to be applauded."-J.M. LeDuc (Author of "Sin") for Suspense Magazine
Winner of the 2015 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Reader's Choice Award in Mystery/Thriller, 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal in Fiction-Action, 2015 eLit Gold Medal in Popular Fiction & Silver Medal in Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
John J. Davis is the award-winning author of the Granger Spy Novel series, including Blood Line and the new sequel, Bloody Truth.
Davis grew up in the Southeastern US and after university traveled extensively in North America during his career as a regional sales rep and independent broker for leaders in the transportation, shipping and pharma industries. His years sitting in lobbies and airports honed his skill for human observation and fed his talent for writing fast-paced, character-driven stories.
His inspiration for the Granger family-of-spies comes from the people he has known and his family roots in the Carolinas--the extraordinarily strong and gentle women and men, whose lives are defined by the love, trust and respect for family. Currently at work on the third Granger Spy Novel and the accompanying screenplays.
"Davis has done what few authors have accomplished in many years; he has written a suspense thriller that can be read and enjoyed by the entire family, and for that, he is to be applauded."-J.M. LeDuc (Author of "Sin") for Suspense Magazine
Winner of the 2015 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Reader's Choice Award in Mystery/Thriller, 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal in Fiction-Action, 2015 eLit Gold Medal in Popular Fiction & Silver Medal in Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
John J. Davis is the award-winning author of the Granger Spy Novel series, including Blood Line and the new sequel, Bloody Truth.
Davis grew up in the Southeastern US and after university traveled extensively in North America during his career as a regional sales rep and independent broker for leaders in the transportation, shipping and pharma industries. His years sitting in lobbies and airports honed his skill for human observation and fed his talent for writing fast-paced, character-driven stories.
His inspiration for the Granger family-of-spies comes from the people he has known and his family roots in the Carolinas--the extraordinarily strong and gentle women and men, whose lives are defined by the love, trust and respect for family. Currently at work on the third Granger Spy Novel and the accompanying screenplays.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
December 7, 2015
Bloodline had moments that I enjoyed, but overall I had several issues that prevented me from enjoying this fully. Frankly I'm surprised by the overwhelming number of five star reviews.
The action scenes were decent and it was interesting to see the husband and wife knowing each other so well that they worked seamlessly as a team. I also liked the choice of the story being told from the father's POV - for some reason this worked well.
Right after a great paced beginning, there was a long scene where the mom is telling the daughter all about their secret spy lives. It might have been better with a short version and then some stories off and on throughout the book.
The daughter is set up to be the perfect future spy. She has photographic memory, perfect recall, and is completely unflappable. The way she interacts with her parents just doesn't ring true for me.
There were too many characters to keep straight easily. There were times I couldn't remember a family member or bad guy and I didn't care enough to go back and recall exactly which one they were.
There was a weird feeling to the book....sometimes it felt tame and PG, but then there would be more swearing and some violence or threatened violence that just didn't fit. It was written a bit simply at times to be felt like an adult novel.
Thank you Simon and Winter and Netgalley for a free digital copy in exchange for a review.
The action scenes were decent and it was interesting to see the husband and wife knowing each other so well that they worked seamlessly as a team. I also liked the choice of the story being told from the father's POV - for some reason this worked well.
Right after a great paced beginning, there was a long scene where the mom is telling the daughter all about their secret spy lives. It might have been better with a short version and then some stories off and on throughout the book.
The daughter is set up to be the perfect future spy. She has photographic memory, perfect recall, and is completely unflappable. The way she interacts with her parents just doesn't ring true for me.
There were too many characters to keep straight easily. There were times I couldn't remember a family member or bad guy and I didn't care enough to go back and recall exactly which one they were.
There was a weird feeling to the book....sometimes it felt tame and PG, but then there would be more swearing and some violence or threatened violence that just didn't fit. It was written a bit simply at times to be felt like an adult novel.
Thank you Simon and Winter and Netgalley for a free digital copy in exchange for a review.
November 5, 2014
"Blood Line" by John J. Davis is a debut thriller, a fast-paced thriller/action novel, an espionage thriller. If you are a fan of spy novels, espionage, and or suspense thrillers, you are in for a treat!
But this book is more than just a straightforward spy story, it's also a story about the strength of family ties, and the lengths we go to protect them.
This is no ordinary family. Ron and his wife Valerie Granger were former CIA operatives, but even though they have been retired from the CIA since 2003, they have both retained their instincts and skills. International enemies want a family dead, and their daughter, Leecy, knows nothing about he parent's past as professional spies.
A simple home invasion, sets the wheels in motion for Ron and Valerie Granger and their sixteen year old daughter, Leecy. A sudden explosion of breaking glass, the failed alarm system, someone in the hallway with a high-powered flashlight, the two intruders hidden behind a black ski mask, with a gun aimed at Ron's chest...There was a struggle and one intruder was incapacitated , and the other one with Leecy was shot and killed by Valerie. But who are these guys...and what did they
want? Now the family was forced to be on the run, while they figured out what was going on.
Valerie used their time on the run to explain to Leecy, about her prior job and missions. They had both been spies, but that she had been an assassin, which explained her skill in shooting. Ron expertise lay in the form of hand-to-hand combat and tactical manoeuvers.
The advancement of technology since 2003, forced Ron Granger to learn and update his skills, to stay abreast of the situation.
The only fault I had with this novel, was that the historical information presented in the middle of the book, for me, slowed down the pace, and took away from the current action.
I highly recommend "Blood Line" and the Granger Spy series for all readers who enjoy an action/thriller.
Many thanks to the author and storycartel.com for the ARC. Much appreciated.
But this book is more than just a straightforward spy story, it's also a story about the strength of family ties, and the lengths we go to protect them.
This is no ordinary family. Ron and his wife Valerie Granger were former CIA operatives, but even though they have been retired from the CIA since 2003, they have both retained their instincts and skills. International enemies want a family dead, and their daughter, Leecy, knows nothing about he parent's past as professional spies.
A simple home invasion, sets the wheels in motion for Ron and Valerie Granger and their sixteen year old daughter, Leecy. A sudden explosion of breaking glass, the failed alarm system, someone in the hallway with a high-powered flashlight, the two intruders hidden behind a black ski mask, with a gun aimed at Ron's chest...There was a struggle and one intruder was incapacitated , and the other one with Leecy was shot and killed by Valerie. But who are these guys...and what did they
want? Now the family was forced to be on the run, while they figured out what was going on.
Valerie used their time on the run to explain to Leecy, about her prior job and missions. They had both been spies, but that she had been an assassin, which explained her skill in shooting. Ron expertise lay in the form of hand-to-hand combat and tactical manoeuvers.
The advancement of technology since 2003, forced Ron Granger to learn and update his skills, to stay abreast of the situation.
The only fault I had with this novel, was that the historical information presented in the middle of the book, for me, slowed down the pace, and took away from the current action.
I highly recommend "Blood Line" and the Granger Spy series for all readers who enjoy an action/thriller.
Many thanks to the author and storycartel.com for the ARC. Much appreciated.
February 23, 2015
give me a break
I did something I never do while reading a book. I stopped reading after finishing 52% of the book. It was so contrived. The husband and wife team were ex CIA and Mossad, respectively and of course, they were the best agents ever. But the most annoying part of the book was the 16 year old daughter. By mid-book she was running the show. Taking on the CIA with her many questions and suppositions. Mom and Dad took a back seat to her. Truly contrived. Unbelievable. As a result, I gave up.
I did something I never do while reading a book. I stopped reading after finishing 52% of the book. It was so contrived. The husband and wife team were ex CIA and Mossad, respectively and of course, they were the best agents ever. But the most annoying part of the book was the 16 year old daughter. By mid-book she was running the show. Taking on the CIA with her many questions and suppositions. Mom and Dad took a back seat to her. Truly contrived. Unbelievable. As a result, I gave up.
August 17, 2014
This book starts off with a bang – almost literally. After retiring from the CIA, Ron Granger is trying to live a simple, quiet life with his wife and daughter. All that changes when their home is broken into, and the Grangers discover that Leecy, their teenage daughter, was targeted for abduction.
This is a fast-paced thriller of a novel, with lots of gratifying spy action. But this book is more than just a straightforward spy story – it's also a story about the strength of family ties (hence the title). This family is more than it appears to be to the casual outside observer, and Ron – despite having been retired from the CIA since 2003 – has retained his instincts and skills.
It's interesting, however, to consider how much technology has advanced since 2003. Ron Granger was more of an "old school" spy, and in this adventure he realizes just how technology-heavy the spy business has become. He's forced to learn an entirely new way of doing things, quickly.
I really enjoyed the historical information presented in the book – without giving too much away, spying is kind of a family business, and the Grangers tell Leecy details going back to Leecy's great-grandmother and her WWII experiences using her USO involvement as a cover.
I only had a couple of minor negatives with this book – first, I hate it when characters do not use contractions in their speech. I feel like it makes the dialogue sound stilted and awkward. There are also a couple of places where information is presented via dialogue, but the characters involved in the conversation would already know the information. This is a way of getting that information to the reader, but I find it a bit disconcerting when there's no reason for a character to be telling another one the information being provided. That being said, the version I read was an ARC, so these minor issues could very well be addressed and corrected before the final copy is published.
This is a compelling and intriguing novel, and I had difficulty putting it aside. There aren't any lulls in the action; Davis' writing keeps you wanting to turn the pages until the end. As mentioned, this is the first book in a series of novels about the Granger Family, and the way this book ends guarantees that I'll be picking up a copy of the next book in the series as soon as it's released!
This is a fast-paced thriller of a novel, with lots of gratifying spy action. But this book is more than just a straightforward spy story – it's also a story about the strength of family ties (hence the title). This family is more than it appears to be to the casual outside observer, and Ron – despite having been retired from the CIA since 2003 – has retained his instincts and skills.
It's interesting, however, to consider how much technology has advanced since 2003. Ron Granger was more of an "old school" spy, and in this adventure he realizes just how technology-heavy the spy business has become. He's forced to learn an entirely new way of doing things, quickly.
I really enjoyed the historical information presented in the book – without giving too much away, spying is kind of a family business, and the Grangers tell Leecy details going back to Leecy's great-grandmother and her WWII experiences using her USO involvement as a cover.
I only had a couple of minor negatives with this book – first, I hate it when characters do not use contractions in their speech. I feel like it makes the dialogue sound stilted and awkward. There are also a couple of places where information is presented via dialogue, but the characters involved in the conversation would already know the information. This is a way of getting that information to the reader, but I find it a bit disconcerting when there's no reason for a character to be telling another one the information being provided. That being said, the version I read was an ARC, so these minor issues could very well be addressed and corrected before the final copy is published.
This is a compelling and intriguing novel, and I had difficulty putting it aside. There aren't any lulls in the action; Davis' writing keeps you wanting to turn the pages until the end. As mentioned, this is the first book in a series of novels about the Granger Family, and the way this book ends guarantees that I'll be picking up a copy of the next book in the series as soon as it's released!
February 3, 2019
To be honest, I think this book could have been way better in many ways. But at the same time, I kinda like it as it is. You must have no idea what I’m blabbing about, so let me tell you.
Blood Line is a thriller/action novel, but it was too slow-paced for my liking. Not enough toe-curling mysteries or omg-what’s-happening-OMG action scenes.
The first 2/3 of the book also felt like a history lesson. Too much talking about the past, not enough being revealed about what was going on in the present.
BUT. After you get through that history lesson, the story starts to build up into awesomeness. I can guarantee that it’s worth reading through.
The environment was described in a mesmerizing way, I could really see the words on the pages come alive in my mind like a movie.
The only problem I had with the writing was the lack of emotion. Now this was something that exasperated me to no end. There’s this saying I read about a while ago “Don’t tell; show”. Don’t tell me somebody is scared, show me by describing their eyes widening, their hands shaking uncontrollably, etc.
Before I get into the ending, Let’s take a moment to talk about the characters. in particular, The protagonist’s insanely intelligent daughter, Leecy. She’s a cool character, all right. But what I don’t get about her is the lack of any trauma… maybe it was just shock, but like… c’mon! I can’t spoil anything, so I’ll just say that some awful things are going to happen to Leecy. And she wasn't that affected by any of it.
Then there was Julia, she’s a secondary character, but I just think she’s a little off. But at least she has kind of a reason to be like that… A reason I’m not going to reveal right now. You’ll just have to read the book and judge for yourself ;)
Okay! So, returning to one of the previous topics. After History, you get P.E.! I really, really, really enjoyed the last chapters. They were interesting and the action was great. Valerie is BADASS. Like holy crap. Don't want to piss her off.
I can’t really give this novel more than 3 stars because the first half of the book was… well, slow-paced and not thrilling enough.
(This review was originally posted on my blog @ Letbooksbee.blogspot.com )
Blood Line is a thriller/action novel, but it was too slow-paced for my liking. Not enough toe-curling mysteries or omg-what’s-happening-OMG action scenes.
The first 2/3 of the book also felt like a history lesson. Too much talking about the past, not enough being revealed about what was going on in the present.
BUT. After you get through that history lesson, the story starts to build up into awesomeness. I can guarantee that it’s worth reading through.
The environment was described in a mesmerizing way, I could really see the words on the pages come alive in my mind like a movie.
The only problem I had with the writing was the lack of emotion. Now this was something that exasperated me to no end. There’s this saying I read about a while ago “Don’t tell; show”. Don’t tell me somebody is scared, show me by describing their eyes widening, their hands shaking uncontrollably, etc.
Before I get into the ending, Let’s take a moment to talk about the characters. in particular, The protagonist’s insanely intelligent daughter, Leecy. She’s a cool character, all right. But what I don’t get about her is the lack of any trauma… maybe it was just shock, but like… c’mon! I can’t spoil anything, so I’ll just say that some awful things are going to happen to Leecy. And she wasn't that affected by any of it.
Then there was Julia, she’s a secondary character, but I just think she’s a little off. But at least she has kind of a reason to be like that… A reason I’m not going to reveal right now. You’ll just have to read the book and judge for yourself ;)
Okay! So, returning to one of the previous topics. After History, you get P.E.! I really, really, really enjoyed the last chapters. They were interesting and the action was great. Valerie is BADASS. Like holy crap. Don't want to piss her off.
I can’t really give this novel more than 3 stars because the first half of the book was… well, slow-paced and not thrilling enough.
(This review was originally posted on my blog @ Letbooksbee.blogspot.com )
February 6, 2015
I don't know what everyone else was reading but this book is boring. It started off like it was going to be great and well paced. Then it slowed way down, to a crawl, while we read about the mother's past as a spy in the most inauthentic and mechanical way possible. The whole dynamic between the family members is just off somehow.
I really wish I got the same "fast paced thriller" other readers got.
I really wish I got the same "fast paced thriller" other readers got.
January 31, 2015
Simply Awful
This is a waste of time of a book, It is worse than juvenile, It is inane, The reviewers who praised this book were either paid by the publishing company or they were 8 years old, The publishers should be ashamed,
This is a waste of time of a book, It is worse than juvenile, It is inane, The reviewers who praised this book were either paid by the publishing company or they were 8 years old, The publishers should be ashamed,
October 26, 2014
Former CIA operative Ron Granger and his wife Valerie are awakened in the middle of the night by a couple of intruders. As Ron handles the one who enters their bedroom, Valerie hears their daughter Leecy scream, and rushes to her rescue. The incident ends with one intruder subdued, beaten senseless by Ron, and the other dead, shot between the eyes by Valerie.
One would think that in Park City, Georgia, considering Georgia’s Castle Law that allows the use of deadly force to protect one’s home, and the fact that the Grangers are friends with the soon-to-be police chief, that would be the end of it. It, unfortunately, is not, as the Grangers learn that a secretive government organization was planning to kidnap their daughter, and now wants to snatch the whole family. That won’t be easy, because not only is Ron a dangerous and deadly agent, but so is Valerie.
For a thrill-a-page read, I think you’d have to search far and wide to find a book that surpasses Blood Line by John S. Davis. I received a free review copy, and once I started reading, I was as hooked as a big mouth bass on a June bug lure. Davis writes in terse, action-packed prose, without a wasted word. Acton scenes are credible, detailed, and awesome, and characters are described in full color and are fully formed. The dialogue is pithy and appropriate to the genre. Stand back Ludlum, you’ve got competition.
One would think that in Park City, Georgia, considering Georgia’s Castle Law that allows the use of deadly force to protect one’s home, and the fact that the Grangers are friends with the soon-to-be police chief, that would be the end of it. It, unfortunately, is not, as the Grangers learn that a secretive government organization was planning to kidnap their daughter, and now wants to snatch the whole family. That won’t be easy, because not only is Ron a dangerous and deadly agent, but so is Valerie.
For a thrill-a-page read, I think you’d have to search far and wide to find a book that surpasses Blood Line by John S. Davis. I received a free review copy, and once I started reading, I was as hooked as a big mouth bass on a June bug lure. Davis writes in terse, action-packed prose, without a wasted word. Acton scenes are credible, detailed, and awesome, and characters are described in full color and are fully formed. The dialogue is pithy and appropriate to the genre. Stand back Ludlum, you’ve got competition.
July 20, 2014
For better or worse, thrilers tend to be similar in many ways. At first this book seems to follow that rule, but after reading it I realized that this book was actually pretty clever in many ways. It's original for sure with a story that gets deeper and more complex as you read. The writing is good and flows well compared to some thrillers I've read. I'd say that this is worth the read if your in the mood for an original thriller.
January 8, 2016
Really? This book was ridiculous. How does it have such a high rating? I don't get.......oh, fuck it. This books blows!!!
Update 1/6/15....I tried reading this again......I thought that maybe my mood influenced my low rating from before.......Nope, this is REALLY bad. If you are currently my friend and liked this book in any way I feel it is time we part ways...ugh, please don't waste your money on this garbage, I beg you.
Update 1/6/15....I tried reading this again......I thought that maybe my mood influenced my low rating from before.......Nope, this is REALLY bad. If you are currently my friend and liked this book in any way I feel it is time we part ways...ugh, please don't waste your money on this garbage, I beg you.
October 10, 2016
I was so excited going into this book, it had a lot of potential but I think the publishers (and all the 5 star reviewers) only read the first chapter. After that it became like reading a creative writing assignment for a high school student. I did push through it but the end was only slightly better than the rest.
Major disappointment.
Major disappointment.
June 3, 2016
"Blood Line" by John J Davis....A Granger Spy Novel
"Blood Line" is a thrilling spy novel at its very best!!
When a simple home invasion turns out not so simple!!
When you can't trust anyone else, trust your family!!
The book is a page turner and actually just a great fun read....Love those spy stories!!!
"Blood Line" is a thrilling spy novel at its very best!!
When a simple home invasion turns out not so simple!!
When you can't trust anyone else, trust your family!!
The book is a page turner and actually just a great fun read....Love those spy stories!!!
November 10, 2014
I received this digital copy from Net Galley and am reviewing an honest opinion
I'll admit, I'm not much of a spy/espionage genre reader, but this book was action packed from page 1, until the end at the epilogue!!
It starts off with the Grangers, Ron, Valerie & their 16 year old daughter Leecy having unexpected visitors in their home in the wee hours of the morning. The mom & dad take care of these unwanted "guests" & then must speak to the local police about the incident in the home Meanwhile, Leecy is baffled & has no idea what her mom & dad really do. As the book progresses, Leecy is told about their backgrounds. Her dad spoke first & her mother filled her in on her side. This is a family with a deep rooted spy background going back as far as "Granny Granny" on Leecy's mom's side with a background in helping free Jewish prisoners in Frankfurt back in 1943!! Leecy is learning this background as they're currently fleeing their home to get away from whoever it is that wants the Granger's. They're not quite sure yet as to who wants them or why but now, at 16, Leecy is finding out her heritage. No more secrets
If you love spy stories & action/adventure, this is the book for you. It has all of that plus mystery & suspense. I'm still not very fond of spy stories myself, but reading this made me enjoy the genre a bit more. It also had a nice bit of "fictional history" of WW2 & saving Jewish people from going to Aushwitz. I say fictional, because this is a work of fiction, but these types of groups existed that did help save Jewish people from Nazi's but the story told here was fiction
I'd highly recommend this book to spy story lovers, but also good if you're not really into spy since it's very fast paced & action/adventure filled. The main characters of Ron & Valerie seem to be a bit "super human" at times but it made for a good story
I'll admit, I'm not much of a spy/espionage genre reader, but this book was action packed from page 1, until the end at the epilogue!!
It starts off with the Grangers, Ron, Valerie & their 16 year old daughter Leecy having unexpected visitors in their home in the wee hours of the morning. The mom & dad take care of these unwanted "guests" & then must speak to the local police about the incident in the home Meanwhile, Leecy is baffled & has no idea what her mom & dad really do. As the book progresses, Leecy is told about their backgrounds. Her dad spoke first & her mother filled her in on her side. This is a family with a deep rooted spy background going back as far as "Granny Granny" on Leecy's mom's side with a background in helping free Jewish prisoners in Frankfurt back in 1943!! Leecy is learning this background as they're currently fleeing their home to get away from whoever it is that wants the Granger's. They're not quite sure yet as to who wants them or why but now, at 16, Leecy is finding out her heritage. No more secrets
If you love spy stories & action/adventure, this is the book for you. It has all of that plus mystery & suspense. I'm still not very fond of spy stories myself, but reading this made me enjoy the genre a bit more. It also had a nice bit of "fictional history" of WW2 & saving Jewish people from going to Aushwitz. I say fictional, because this is a work of fiction, but these types of groups existed that did help save Jewish people from Nazi's but the story told here was fiction
I'd highly recommend this book to spy story lovers, but also good if you're not really into spy since it's very fast paced & action/adventure filled. The main characters of Ron & Valerie seem to be a bit "super human" at times but it made for a good story
July 18, 2020
“Blood Line” the debut novel buy John J. Davis is a fast fun read. What happens when a family of spies and spies to be get drug into a conspiracy involving technology that could change the fate of the world and warfare as we know it? One such outcome is set forth in these 250 pages, because that is what the book is about.
Ron Granger and his and his wife, Valerie, are not the ordinary couple, nor is their daughter Leecy the average teen. That's some information those that break into their home to kidnap Leecy, and the ones above giving the orders, might have wanted to know before going up against them. As the story unfolds, we find out more about each of them as they are pitted against ex-military and spooks with various initials behind their names.
There are times that this feels like a first novel. I can say that because I've been told the same thing about mine, and I've read many “first” books compared to the most popular best sellers. I suspect that Davis will tighten his writing and grow as a writer as he continues to write about these characters. I also imagine that they will stay fun and enjoyable, as that is what this book is. Remember “The A-Team” television series and shows like it? This book is sort of like that. It's fun, it's light, and you have to suspend your belief of reality. Some of the dialog is forced, and I had a hard time believing the daughter's character would just be like that. But I'm not going to over analyze it. I'm not going to over analyze “The Incredibles” animated movie either. It was fun to watch and I had fun reading this book for some light escapism.
It's a fast read, and it was fun. If you like spy stories and those of international intrigue on a local level, check out John Davis and the Granger family.
Ron Granger and his and his wife, Valerie, are not the ordinary couple, nor is their daughter Leecy the average teen. That's some information those that break into their home to kidnap Leecy, and the ones above giving the orders, might have wanted to know before going up against them. As the story unfolds, we find out more about each of them as they are pitted against ex-military and spooks with various initials behind their names.
There are times that this feels like a first novel. I can say that because I've been told the same thing about mine, and I've read many “first” books compared to the most popular best sellers. I suspect that Davis will tighten his writing and grow as a writer as he continues to write about these characters. I also imagine that they will stay fun and enjoyable, as that is what this book is. Remember “The A-Team” television series and shows like it? This book is sort of like that. It's fun, it's light, and you have to suspend your belief of reality. Some of the dialog is forced, and I had a hard time believing the daughter's character would just be like that. But I'm not going to over analyze it. I'm not going to over analyze “The Incredibles” animated movie either. It was fun to watch and I had fun reading this book for some light escapism.
It's a fast read, and it was fun. If you like spy stories and those of international intrigue on a local level, check out John Davis and the Granger family.
February 4, 2015
Blood Line by John J. Davis, tells the story of what happens when you decide to kidnap, threaten and extort from a family who have been trained to the Nth degree as agents, interrogators, and killers.
The Grangers, Ron, Valerie, and their sixteen-year-old daughter, Leecy, are awakened in the middle of the night to a home invasion, which goes nothing like the plan the assailants were working to... Ron notices immediately that the alarm isn't going off, warns Valerie , and they proceed to disarm, knock out and/or kill the bad guys in the first two pages (six on my iPhone).
The story slows long enough for a little more info and to clean up the house, before plunging head-long into the rest of the story.
Ron and Valerie come across as real partners who care about each other and about their kid. I came to very much enjoy the banter between them, and while Leecy was highly intelligent, she was more like a mature teenager than the whiny, ignorant kids you sometimes get in these books. What you might expect from someone smart enough to get into Yale at sixteen who has been raised by intelligent, caring parents.
The pace was fast enough to keep my interest - hello three hour sleep: I had to pick it back up - but not so fast-paced it felt forced.
I very much enjoyed the book, the characters, and the end was satisfying. I understand there is a sequel coming out this spring - I will be on the look out for it.
The Grangers, Ron, Valerie, and their sixteen-year-old daughter, Leecy, are awakened in the middle of the night to a home invasion, which goes nothing like the plan the assailants were working to... Ron notices immediately that the alarm isn't going off, warns Valerie , and they proceed to disarm, knock out and/or kill the bad guys in the first two pages (six on my iPhone).
The story slows long enough for a little more info and to clean up the house, before plunging head-long into the rest of the story.
Ron and Valerie come across as real partners who care about each other and about their kid. I came to very much enjoy the banter between them, and while Leecy was highly intelligent, she was more like a mature teenager than the whiny, ignorant kids you sometimes get in these books. What you might expect from someone smart enough to get into Yale at sixteen who has been raised by intelligent, caring parents.
The pace was fast enough to keep my interest - hello three hour sleep: I had to pick it back up - but not so fast-paced it felt forced.
I very much enjoyed the book, the characters, and the end was satisfying. I understand there is a sequel coming out this spring - I will be on the look out for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2014
I loved this thrilling book. Perhaps reading a thriller at night when your home alone isn't the best idea. However, I couldn't put it down
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I started reading this book one evening around 8:30 p.m. I loved it and had a hard time putting it down. I finished one chapter and accidentally read a few lines of the next chapter. Reading just a few lines of the chapter made me have a hard time stopping. I had to keep reading until that chapter was finished. Then of course I wanted to read the next chapter.The first night I read the book, I ended up reading until 2 a.m. The only reason I put the book down was because I was struggling to stay awake any longer. The book was that good and I loved all the complexities to it. The next day I had to keep reading Blood Lines whenever I got a chance. I finished reading the book in just 2 days time.
Once I finished reading the book I was immediately wanting to know if the author had released other books. I can't wait until the next 2 books in this series comes out. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
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I started reading this book one evening around 8:30 p.m. I loved it and had a hard time putting it down. I finished one chapter and accidentally read a few lines of the next chapter. Reading just a few lines of the chapter made me have a hard time stopping. I had to keep reading until that chapter was finished. Then of course I wanted to read the next chapter.The first night I read the book, I ended up reading until 2 a.m. The only reason I put the book down was because I was struggling to stay awake any longer. The book was that good and I loved all the complexities to it. The next day I had to keep reading Blood Lines whenever I got a chance. I finished reading the book in just 2 days time.
Once I finished reading the book I was immediately wanting to know if the author had released other books. I can't wait until the next 2 books in this series comes out. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
October 7, 2014
By John J Davis
Well yet more kickass women in this book one of whom is seriously scary. I wonder just how much truth about the Mossad there is in what we are told in the book? Looking up the author he doesn’t say anything about having worked for any intelligence agency but I am sure that the details are available for research. What is interesting is that he admits to having an American Indian in the family just as his father in the family around which the book is written, has. So some of the details would be truthful - or roughly truthful here. He says that the characters in the book are inspired by his dysfunctional family which is not easy to read if you are related to him!
This book is basically a story of agents whose background is in assassination and who then marry and have a daughter with not only high intelligence but who has also inherited their physical skills. Which are many and varied including being a sniper as well as a knife thrower extraordinaire.
I did enjoy the book and will look forward to reading more in the series.
I reviewed this for Netgalley.
Well yet more kickass women in this book one of whom is seriously scary. I wonder just how much truth about the Mossad there is in what we are told in the book? Looking up the author he doesn’t say anything about having worked for any intelligence agency but I am sure that the details are available for research. What is interesting is that he admits to having an American Indian in the family just as his father in the family around which the book is written, has. So some of the details would be truthful - or roughly truthful here. He says that the characters in the book are inspired by his dysfunctional family which is not easy to read if you are related to him!
This book is basically a story of agents whose background is in assassination and who then marry and have a daughter with not only high intelligence but who has also inherited their physical skills. Which are many and varied including being a sniper as well as a knife thrower extraordinaire.
I did enjoy the book and will look forward to reading more in the series.
I reviewed this for Netgalley.
January 3, 2015
This debut novel by John Davis is well written and action-packed. Ron Graham is retired ex-CIA who helps his wife Valerie, ex-Mossad, run her family's business. The story opens with a bang when two men break into their home and attempt to kidnap their daughter Leecy. Ron and Valerie take care of these intruders with lethal skill. But then the FBI arrives in town to interrogate them. Except that they are crooks masquerading as FBI. When Ron and Valerie realize this they head for the hills, metaphorically speaking, as the fake FBI issue an APB for their capture. Ron connects with his former handler at the CIA. They become involved together in an attempt to ensnare the fake FBI and others who are trying to steal stealth technology from Valerie's family's company. At times the plot bogs down as Ron and Valerie slowly reveal their backgrounds to their daughter. And Leecy's role is somewhat over the top.
This is a readable thriller but not on a par with the great writers of thrillers. My copy of this novel was provided by the publisher via NetGalley
This is a readable thriller but not on a par with the great writers of thrillers. My copy of this novel was provided by the publisher via NetGalley
February 3, 2015
Bloodline, is a fast paced and action packed book from the beginning all the way to the end. It has intrigue, murder, mystery in who is the mole trying to kill Ron Granger, and his family. He has retired from the CIA, and both he and his wife Valerie have secrets that their daughter Leecy, does not know about. Ron must get in touch with his old handler from the CIA. Meanwhile they all need to be gone until they can figure out the, who, and why? This makes the story more appealing because as they are on the run they are explaining the back ground of the mother, later you get to find out about the father and together they make a killer team. The daughter just seems to be soaking this in not really panicking. Like I said this was fast paced and difficult to figure out at first but then when they start putting everything together it makes the story work. A very good book, with good characters and a good storyline. I got this book from net galley.
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February 23, 2015I couldn't finish it. All I kept thinking throughout the first four chapters was that this was a freshman creative writing project. Stock characters (husband/wife agents i.e. Mr. & Mrs. Smith, True Lies) ex: "She had her five fingers splayed on her leg letting me know there were five problems with this situation." Canned dialog "I've heard tales of a legendary dangerous agent: are you THAT agent?" It seriously read like Michael Scott's "Threat Level Midnight" from The Office. Clearly many people love the book as noted by its high rating. I just don't know what they read that I didn't (maybe the ending's fantastic?) It's rare that I don't finish a book, but I couldn't.
To be fair to the author, I didn't rate it because I didn't finish it. But from the four initial chapters: one star.
To be fair to the author, I didn't rate it because I didn't finish it. But from the four initial chapters: one star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2015
This book is not your typical thriller. The untoward language was kept to a minimum as compared to other books in like style. I applaud the author for not writing unwarranted sex scenes into the book. A clean thriller is rare. This writer did it and deserves a good word for doing so. The author's writing mechanics were excellent. A mistake or two did not bother me. The storyline involved instruments of terror which covers a lot of territory, mostly of the internet type. But the cloak and dagger actions kept apace of the new spy technology. The storyline was clean and focused. I think the author was laying an easy reading foundation for a second book in a series, and I liked and appreciated that style.
Thank you, Mr. Davis, for a good read.
Thank you, Mr. Davis, for a good read.
May 18, 2015
This book started out with smashing glass and chaos. The daughter of a Mossad agent, Valerie, and a CIA one-man kill squad, Ron, is kidnapped. The kidnappers want to sell technology produced by Valerie's company to the highest bidder and kidnapping Leecy seemed the way to obtain it. The kidnappers weren't concerned about the parents' reputation because they were Rangers themselves. The story continues with twists and turns and ends on a high note. The ending was exciting and, to me, the best part of the book.
For some reason, I found this story a little far-fetched beccause 16-year-old Leecy works with her parents like a seasoned agent. It just didn't ring true to me.
For some reason, I found this story a little far-fetched beccause 16-year-old Leecy works with her parents like a seasoned agent. It just didn't ring true to me.
January 5, 2018
I cannot believe all the four and five star reviews of this shallow, clumsy story. The main characters have about as much depth as comic book super-heroes but they are the finest secret agents and assassins that the CIA (and Mossad!) have ever had. Plus, their teenage daughter, who has no idea of their backstory, reveals she has a stunning command of counter-espionage strategy. The story was badly told, with lots of long ponderous speechifying in place of plot development. Why I continued to the end, I don't know! The book was free and it was worth every penny.
March 27, 2015
Picture "Mr. And Mrs. Smith" (having a 17 year old daughter who learns what her parents really do for a living) meets "Mission Impossible". That's what this book reminds me of.
I have to admit that there are very ling sections explaining the family history. I mean LONG, drawn out reenactments that made the story drag to the point I was wondering when the action was going to start again. But when it does, it's a lot of cat and mouse action that's very entertaining.
I have to admit that there are very ling sections explaining the family history. I mean LONG, drawn out reenactments that made the story drag to the point I was wondering when the action was going to start again. But when it does, it's a lot of cat and mouse action that's very entertaining.
July 21, 2014
This was one good read.
Brilliant and riveting book! John J. Davis has once again mastered his method of throwing the reader straight into this dark fantasy right from the start. Extremely well written.
I think someone should make a movie out of it, it had action, suspense, infant history and romance all in one boom. AWESOME
Brilliant and riveting book! John J. Davis has once again mastered his method of throwing the reader straight into this dark fantasy right from the start. Extremely well written.
I think someone should make a movie out of it, it had action, suspense, infant history and romance all in one boom. AWESOME
April 8, 2015
Blood Lines, tells the story.
Leech is good example of what we inherit from our grandparents. Hope to read more about Granger family. OSS to CIA, FBI and Mussad. How our governments secrets can be targeted. Technology we depend on also can be used against us. Good, exhilarating thriller.
Leech is good example of what we inherit from our grandparents. Hope to read more about Granger family. OSS to CIA, FBI and Mussad. How our governments secrets can be targeted. Technology we depend on also can be used against us. Good, exhilarating thriller.
December 18, 2015
So awful I couldn't finish it. It is so preposterous and poorly written that I felt in was reading something written by a 6th grader who wants to be a writer...a precocious 6th grader, but childish nonetheless. it's so bad that I've decided I can't trust reviewers anymore. After spending $8 on it, I'm not wasting another minute of my life reading it. got through 25%.
March 10, 2015
This book has an interesting plot line...for a movie. The dialogue reads like a script. There's no descriptions, or interesting subtext. Just a story. I can visualize it very clearly as a movie. But it's not a very interesting book, unfortunately.
February 9, 2015
Predictable
Overall this book was good though I found the writing and plot predictable. That said I do not want to take anything away from the books creator, I just think it was lacking in a solid plot to hold the reader.
Overall this book was good though I found the writing and plot predictable. That said I do not want to take anything away from the books creator, I just think it was lacking in a solid plot to hold the reader.
March 4, 2015
Spy/action/adventure-lite. A quick, fun read with CIA/black ops as a family affair, with engaging characters I'd like to read more about.
Realistic? Maybe not, but I'm pleased to find something in this genre that isn't grim, dark and subjects the reader to graphic torture scenes.
Realistic? Maybe not, but I'm pleased to find something in this genre that isn't grim, dark and subjects the reader to graphic torture scenes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews