Collision Course: A John Tyler Thriller

by Tom Fowler

John Tyler never thought he’d need to worry about his father.

Then, the old man disappeared.



Rumors swirl about Zeke Tyler being a double agent during his time in the Navy. Strange cars follow Tyler, and a combative media host eager to stoke the flames makes him a target.

Following Zeke’s arrest, he somehow escapes from a wrecked federal prison transport. The FBI has some pointed questions for Tyler, who has a bunch of his own.

Tyler’s search for his father will pit him against powerful adversaries with old axes to grind. Still, the questions remain.

What happened to his father? Where did he go? And was he really working against the country he loved all those years ago?

Tyler soon learns the answers might cost him and his dad their lives.

Collision Course is the ninth gripping entry in the John Tyler thriller series. The books are perfect for readers who like their thrillers with plenty of action, a little humor, and a little heart.

440 pages, Paperback

Published March 26, 2025

Reviews

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love this series. This book is in my opinion the best one yet. The story grabbed me from the first page and kept me glued to the edge of my seat throughout! The characters are dynamic and engaging. Everyone from Tyler the protagonist to more minor players is well developed. Can’t wait for the next book to drop.

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story begins with Tyler and his daughter Lexi eating at a restaurant. Lexi yells her fayher that he needs to talk to his father Zeke. It seems that he hasn't been acting as he normally does. The next morning Tyler meets with Zeke to get answers as to what is going on. Before he can get a response, the FBI comes in and arrests Zeke. An unknown party has a beef with Zeke and he has been feeding a podcaster false information which has been broadcast. It seems that based on this information a warrant was issued for something that happened 40 years earlier.

That evening Zeke is brought to court where he is ordered to be sent to a medium security prison. During the transport, the vehicle is intercepted with the guards killed and Zeke taken. Now Tyler along with Lexi begin trying to discover who took Zeke and where. Read along and discover what Lexi was able to uncover and what steps Tyler took to locate and free his father.

The detail steps that Lexi and Tyler performed was well documented. This is a definite read. Don't miss out.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I tell you that I'm running out of ways to say that Mr. Fowler has written a spellbinding thriller? I think I've used up all my adjectives in previous reviews and feel like I'm repeating myself (probably because I am). But just because I'm not a writer and don't feel like I adequately explain how enjoyable the books are, shouldn't take anything away from Mr. Fowler's writing. He has created characters that have become "friends" over the course of nine books (yes, I do realize they aren't real, but they sure feel like it at times.) and I enjoy spending time with them. I very much enjoyed learning more about Zeke's background with this story and I hope we get to see more of him in future books. As usual, there is plenty of guns, fists, and other items flying through the air and Lexi once again gets to show off her computer skills. I thoroughly enjoy Mr. Fowler's writing style and think you would, too. Especially if you enjoy non-stop action, great characters, a good blend of action, narration,, and dialogue. If you haven't read any of Mr. Fowler's work I highly recommend you get started as soon as possible.

[Tina Lincoln · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't Mess with the Tyler's!
John Tyler is a guy who did a long stint in the military, and it seems that no matter what goes on, their family gets in to the middle of something. This time it was Zeke (Ezekiel) Tyler, John's Dad, well, John goes by Tyler.
Years ago, Zeke was in the government business too, and one of the men he had to deal with had a Dad who is still very, very mad about it! He decides that he and his friends are going to kidnap, torture, then kill Zeke Tyler! There is just one little problem with that, Tyler.
This is a story that will have you reading at all hours of the day and night because it is so busy, and for me, I wanted to find out what is going to happen!
This is part of a series, and it could be read as a standalone, but it is so much better when read in order. Even Tyler's daughter gets into the action to help out, while she is at college.
Thank you, Tom Fowler, for another amazing story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, John Tyler takes on the bad guys. Although Tyler’s family has been mentioned in previous stories, we now get to actually meet both his father and his brother who are actually the main focus of this book. Once again, evil shows it’s ugly head; this time enveloping Tyler’s father by falsely enabling the FBI incarceration of the 78-year old retiree for a 30-year old incident when he was a Navy Chief, then having him kidnaped and beaten almost to death. Tyler’s daughter, Alexi, combines the investigative skills she has learned working for CT Ferguson and TJ, with her uncle, Tyler’s estranged brother’s, talents in finance in order to help Tyler to locate, rescue, and revenge her grandfather. As before with the previous thrillers, Tyler, this time combined with his entire family, has to navigate lots of intrigue, back-stabbing, threats on his life and that of his family, and total distrust. I thoroughly enjoyed this next story in the series and am looking forward to the next adventure.

[Craig Smedley · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Tyler’s daughter, Lexi expresses her concern about her grandfather, Ezekiel Tyler, John’s father. This becomes the start of another exciting story with plenty of action and violence. Back in the day, Zeke was a Master Chief in the Navy and during that time he had an unsatisfactory navy member discharged because of poor performance which may have contributed to that person taking their own life. The father of that person has long harboured a desire for revenge and plotted and planned over the years. He engineers the perception of espionage by Zeke as a double agent, many years ago, which leads to an arrest by the FBI. With many twists and turns John Tyler has to track Zeke down when he is brutally kidnapped from custody by the aggrieved parent and an exciting story unfolds.
Zeke turns out to be of similar mind to son John as the story unfolds and with the help of Lexi and her computer skills Zeke is rescued and an interesting story is finally revealed as to Zeke’s actual involvement with the Russians in the Cold War years. An excellent story which is highly recommended.

[Valettagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read. John Tyler a retired veteran is definitely a chip off the old block having followed his father into the armed forces. Now, having been retired a while and a business owner to boot, life is seemingly getting quieter. Suddenly the action ratchets up. His father is abducted at 78 and there’s seemingly no reason for it. John needs to rely on old allies and counterparts if he is to unravel his dad’s disappearance. Family matters at times like this and his daughter’s skills are also needed. This story unravels little by little with shocking overtones of violence and hate for a past death alongside a modicum of humour at compelling moments.

Clever twists and turns lead to a path of deceit and treachery alongside a bumbling government service who are all too easily misled.

I was fortunate enough to receive an arc from the author .
My honest review is that it was an exceptionally good read. I couldn’t put it down..👏👏

[Tg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Collision Course by Tom Fowler is sheer excitement that rushes its way to the expected, and the unexpected. It’s filled with tension as the compelling story unites a family. Yet it is so much more than compelling. It’s intriguing, exciting, and almost beguiling as it elegantly plants a seed of anger that will leave you wondering what three different people, and actually four people, will do to protect, and to rescue their family, and each other. Regardless of how you answer, it’s all about the resolve of these four flawed souls, and what each of them can do — will do, and how they will, in some small way, become closer. It’s a perfect example of great writing, and a powerful portrait of character development that will easily and quickly carry you to its conclusion. Don’t miss this masterpiece by Fowler, and don’t be surprised when it has you turning most pages while you are sitting on the edge of your seat — or holding your breath.

[BJayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another action-packed, fast-paced read by author Tom Fowler. His previous books in this series have focused mainly on John Tyler, a retired Green Beret, and his life of “retirement”.

This book’s main focus is on John’s father, Ezekiel “Zeke” Tyler, a retired Navy Master Chief who served honorably for 40 years. Or did he? Someone has been holding a grudge and is determined to ruin Zeke’s life.

Hang onto your hats for the wild ride that follows as John Tyler seeks to locate his father and find out the truth about him. After all, do we ever truly know everything about our parents? Do we even want to find out?

I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeke Tyler has had an almost annoying seemingly squeaky clean reputation and attitude, as opposed to his coloring outside the lines Green Beret son.

it was angst and drama filled and really fascinating to read along as some more complex aspects of Zeke's history and personality. It's nice to meet more of the man Lexi seems so fond of, and kind of amusing to see Tyler deal with knowing his father as an adult with a more complex military and romantic history - some good chuckles - so much more fun to read someone else enduring than when coping with your own widowed parents.

great family, suspense and action drama with more than a few make you blink moments.

rich, fun to read characters.

[Susan Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story, with characters you care about. I love how people tend to underestimate Tyler, but seeing his dad, you can see where he gets both his caring and special abilities from. And now that Lexi is growing into her own, it's obvious the next generation in their footsteps even though her skill set is decidedly different, in keeping with the times. But it's great to see the family dynamics while the main story constantly keeps the reader wanting more. This is part of a series, but it's not necessary to have read them all. I think it does well as a standalone. (I have read some but not all, and there were no disturbing gaps.) I think I may go back and read the others, though, since they are so enjoyable. Recommended!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Collision Course by Tom Fowler is the 9th book in this thrilling series. Each book can be read as a stand alone and that is why they are so great. There is intrigue, suspense, action, murder, and lots of other stuff that will keep you turning pages until the very end. It will also have you wanting more. The plot and characters are well developed. There is even a telephone appearance by a character from another series by this author! This book is not for the faint of heart; there are killings and violence but there is not sex or swearing! I received an advance copy of this book and I always review every book that I read. Enjoy.

[S McK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edge of your seat thrilling!

Tyler won't stand for the blatant lies and accusations, made against his father, Zeke. The FBI and the public, are manipulated into thinking he's a traitor - more fool them!

Zeke is taken and tortured but his resolve never waivers.

Tyler, Lexi and even uncle James are determined to expose the truth and hold the perpetrators to account. They use their skills to dismantle everyone involved, Tyler's methods are permanent...

Love this series, the characters and the pace of the action. I'm intrigued to see how uncle James might fit into future books.

I inhale Tom's books and stay up way too late, finishing them. More please!

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one went straight to the heart. A real low blow and an emotional rollercoaster. How disillusioned and distorted can love make a person view past deeds?? I can't imagine the perpetrator had much integrity to start with! The need for revenge blinded the person to any truths which really saddened my heart. My head was on a swivel between Lexi and John wondering what next. I thought it was inspiring to see how Tyler left little blood baths behind in his victims. Lol. The other brother was a surprise and a great help to Lexi. I just love the father son bonding time at the end. Lol.

[Manfred · Rating 5 out of 5]

John Tyler's father, Zeke, gets accused of espionage and is arrested. On his way to prison, his convoy is attacked and Zeke vanishes. When John Tyler learns of this, nothing will stop him in finding out what happened. With help from his daughter and his estranged brother, John goes on the hunt and the kidnappers and their associates soon wish they didn't do it. Another great read in this amazing series. I'm looking forward to the next one.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great John Tyler book. Warning this book is impossible to put down. I read it in one sitting with my eyes ready to fall out of my head! This book was action packed. No one messes with John Tyler’s dad and walk away from it. When Zeke get kidnapped the family works together to get him back even James Tyler. The Tyler family bond like no other! I highly recommend this book, series and author! I know I’m hooked!

[Jodi Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Tyler's father Ezekiel is arrested for espionage, it is all hands on deck to figure out who is behind this dastardly plot. We even meet John Tyler's brother James in this book. It also brings C.T in for a small cameo. There is great action and suspense. This one kept me up late reading it all in one shot. The plot twists come fast and furious so keep up. A fabulous read!

[Arllau · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the best book yet in the John Tyler Action thrillers. It's a fun fast paced thriller with lots of action and the sarcastic humor of expected of John Tyler. John's father Zeke is abducted and the whole family including John's brother bands together to save him. A thoroughly enjoyable story.

[Paul Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trouble has a habit of finding the Tyler family, and it’s happened again. This time though it’s not John in trouble, but John working with the rest of the family to unravel the problem and save the day. Bad guys beware, an angry Tyler should not be messed with.
A great story, keeps you engaged and packed with action throughout. Another great read, thanks Tom. Looking forward to the next one.

[María Mónica Beltrami · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb is unable to describe this novel.

Now, if you permit me to invent a new word, the title could begin with "Super-superb" .
It made me forget home tasks, wash my hair, have lunch several hours after the accustomed time, get to bed after midnight, and various etc.
This novel is worth of repeating readings!

[Dave and Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lexi, Dad an Granddad - Thee Three Musketeers and maybe a fourth on the horizon.
Again, John Tyler is called upon to help, but, it's personal and family, his dad.
Fake info, Feds, a loud mouth broadcaster, 30 yer old stories and loose money play havoc with John Tyler's family.
Let's get the job done.
A great read.

[Cyrus L Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't ever make the Tylers mad.

A family gathering is always nice for most families. The Tyler family is no exception. But if someone messes with one Tyler, they will meet the entire family. Excellent story that makes for a fast and exciting read. Tom Fowler has another hit. Read and enjoy.

[Marti · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT story! COLLISION COURSE has it all - plenty of action, lots of snark, realistic dialogue, memorable character interaction, and a tight, well-written plot.
Disclosure: I received a free Advance Reader Copy of this book with no strings attached. My review contains my honest opinion.

[Dennis Martin]

Tyler’s father is set up by a man with a grudge, to make it appear that he was a traitor many years ago. John had been the instigator in getting this man’s son kicked out of the army. Result, the son committed suicide. Now Tyler must get his father safe, and then eliminate further threats. ENJOY!

[Jas]

Another quick paced John Tyler thriller. My one complaint is that about the half way mark, the bad guys started to become less sinister and intelligent and more clownish and simple minded. Still overall a good read.

[Vivian Moulun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tom Fowler outdid himself. “Collision Course” is even better than the other books in the series, involving Zeke, Tyler’s father. Can Tyler rescue him? It is an action-packed and fast-paced story. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves a great thriller.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written with the characters drawing me in from the beginning. Once again full of suspense and danger. There’s no stopping until you get to the last page and find out what happened. Best book yet, don’t miss out.

[Myra McCulloch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler's life is never quiet for long.

Another fast paced, action thriller with great characters and plot twists as Tyler battles the low life characters who threaten his family.

[Ann Keeran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grandfather Troubles

John Tyler and his daughter work hard to keep his father safe. Collision Course is a scenario for vengeance and Tyler Justice.

[Myra McCulloch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler's life is never quiet for long.

Another fast paced, action thriller with great characters and plot twists as Tyler's battles the low life characters who threaten his family.