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FBI Thriller #19
Nemesis
When Special Agent Lacey Sherlock foils a terrorist attack at JFK airport, she thinks her job is done and turns the reins over to the New York FBI. But stopping the grenade-carrying crazy was only the beginning. Another plot unfolds nearly simultaneously with a bomb at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The terrorist at JFK refuses to speak to anyone but Sherlock. She heads back with counterterrorist Special Agent Cal McLain to try to get him to talk.
Meanwhile, Savich—with the help of Agent Griffin Hammersmith—has his hands full trying to track an elusive murderer who looks like a Hollywood Dracula. When Dracula’s attempts to kill Savich collide with Sherlock’s terrorist case, very strange things happen.
Who is really behind the bombing attack at St. Patrick’s? How does Savich’s mysterious killer fit into Sherlock’s terrorism investigation? Savich and Sherlock race against the clock, as more lives are in danger with every passing minute.
Meanwhile, Savich—with the help of Agent Griffin Hammersmith—has his hands full trying to track an elusive murderer who looks like a Hollywood Dracula. When Dracula’s attempts to kill Savich collide with Sherlock’s terrorist case, very strange things happen.
Who is really behind the bombing attack at St. Patrick’s? How does Savich’s mysterious killer fit into Sherlock’s terrorism investigation? Savich and Sherlock race against the clock, as more lives are in danger with every passing minute.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published July 7, 2015
1567 people are currently reading
4167 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 630 reviews
September 19, 2021
I really enjoy these Savich and Sherlock thrillers by Catherine Coulter. They always have fast-paced adventure, and a great set of mysteries to work out.
In this one, Sherlock is at the airport when someone threatens to set off a grenade. Somewhere else in the city, a bomb is found in a church. Are the two terrorist events related, and are they also related to a set of mysterious killings with Wiccan knives, where the killers seem to have no memory of what they've done?
I appreciate the research and techincal precision that must go into writing each of these novels in the series. The detail work and sense of authenticity makes her one of my favorite thriller writers. 4.5/5 stars.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
In this one, Sherlock is at the airport when someone threatens to set off a grenade. Somewhere else in the city, a bomb is found in a church. Are the two terrorist events related, and are they also related to a set of mysterious killings with Wiccan knives, where the killers seem to have no memory of what they've done?
I appreciate the research and techincal precision that must go into writing each of these novels in the series. The detail work and sense of authenticity makes her one of my favorite thriller writers. 4.5/5 stars.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
August 1, 2016
Nemesis by Catherine Coulter is a 2015 G.P. Putnam’s Sons publication.
Recently, I was invited to review the latest upcoming release in Catherine Coulter’s long running FBI series. I was thrilled to sign up, but soon discovered I had the wrong series in mind, having confused this one with the J.T Ellison/Catherine Coulter collaboration.
With a sinking feeling, I realized I had attempted to read through this series a long time ago, but gave up on it pretty quick. However, I still have a few random paperbacks in this series languishing on my bookshelves, so I decided to give it another look. Sadly, the book I chose reminded me of why I abandoned the series in the first place,
But, with the encouragement of a few Goodreads friends, I vowed to forge ahead, determined to find a book that would explain this series’ longevity and popularity, However, I decided to try a more recent release to see if that would make a difference.
As it turns out, that seems to have been a pretty good decision.
A diabolical terrorist plot coupled with a creepy and sinister paranormal crime spree is certainly an interesting combination. This story would have made an excellent X Files episode.
Sherlock and Savich are working separately, this time around, as Sherlock becomes a national hero after thwarting a terrorist attack at JFK airport, while Savich is working on a puzzling set of murders where the perpetrator has no memory of committing the crime.
I thought the terrorist plot was chilling, especially as the reader is given insight into the terrorist leader’s inner thoughts, plans, and motives. There are plenty of action packed moments and heart-stopping suspense.
The Wiccan plot is of course one in which the reader will have to indulge in some imaginative leeway, but was actually pretty creepy and downright evil. Savich proves he doesn't only have physical strength, but mental and psychic toughness this time around.
I am buoyed now that I’ve finally found a book in the series I really like, and am actually looking forward to the new release!
Overall this one gets 4 stars
Recently, I was invited to review the latest upcoming release in Catherine Coulter’s long running FBI series. I was thrilled to sign up, but soon discovered I had the wrong series in mind, having confused this one with the J.T Ellison/Catherine Coulter collaboration.
With a sinking feeling, I realized I had attempted to read through this series a long time ago, but gave up on it pretty quick. However, I still have a few random paperbacks in this series languishing on my bookshelves, so I decided to give it another look. Sadly, the book I chose reminded me of why I abandoned the series in the first place,
But, with the encouragement of a few Goodreads friends, I vowed to forge ahead, determined to find a book that would explain this series’ longevity and popularity, However, I decided to try a more recent release to see if that would make a difference.
As it turns out, that seems to have been a pretty good decision.
A diabolical terrorist plot coupled with a creepy and sinister paranormal crime spree is certainly an interesting combination. This story would have made an excellent X Files episode.
Sherlock and Savich are working separately, this time around, as Sherlock becomes a national hero after thwarting a terrorist attack at JFK airport, while Savich is working on a puzzling set of murders where the perpetrator has no memory of committing the crime.
I thought the terrorist plot was chilling, especially as the reader is given insight into the terrorist leader’s inner thoughts, plans, and motives. There are plenty of action packed moments and heart-stopping suspense.
The Wiccan plot is of course one in which the reader will have to indulge in some imaginative leeway, but was actually pretty creepy and downright evil. Savich proves he doesn't only have physical strength, but mental and psychic toughness this time around.
I am buoyed now that I’ve finally found a book in the series I really like, and am actually looking forward to the new release!
Overall this one gets 4 stars
July 28, 2015
Year after year, I continue to follow and read this series. I loved them at the beginning but over the years, they have felt watered down and the dialogue is rather stilted in the book. It's like the characters are constantly speaking in run on sentences. And Savich's foray into the occult and weirdness does nothing for me. It's 100% unrealistic when the other story lines portrayed, terrorism, kidnapping, assassination - all of those are 100% believable. It's weird because it's almost like 2 books smushed into 1. I enjoy Savich and Sherlock's interactions and I do enjoy that the author brings back characters from other books but I often forget who's who and which book they were in. All you really need to know is that Savich trusts that person and they are top notch and a great cop or FBI agent. No one ever does a bad job. This one was ok. I give it 4 stars because of the Sherlock story but I'm all set with what Savich was up to. And how come Sean never ages? :-) And of course, he's the most brillant and lovable child ever. I'd rather the author talk more about the dog than the kid. Be like me; get this from the library and don't spend actual money on the book or kindle copy.
August 14, 2015
Nemesis
I really do enjoy this series with Savich and Sherlock but the past couple of years with Savich and his dreams and the psychic episodes are just too far fetched for me. If it wasn't for Sherlock and her regular FBI cases without all the craziness I think I would have stopped reading this series a long time ago. At least the know it all computer program Max was left out of this book, thank goodness.
I really do enjoy this series with Savich and Sherlock but the past couple of years with Savich and his dreams and the psychic episodes are just too far fetched for me. If it wasn't for Sherlock and her regular FBI cases without all the craziness I think I would have stopped reading this series a long time ago. At least the know it all computer program Max was left out of this book, thank goodness.
July 19, 2015
Review originally posted at
All Books Considered: TWO AND A HALF STARS
The FBI Thriller series by Catherine Coulter has been one of my favorites for over ten years; I have anxiously awaited each new book every summer and typically devour them as fast I have them in my hands. Book #18, Power Play, was definitely my least favorite in the series to date but I wrote it off as a fluke since the other 17 books were all 4 or 5 star reads for me. But now I am worried -- not only has the romance completely vanished from the series but the true stars of the series -- Savich and Sherlock (read book 2, The Maze!) -- felt totally staid and boring in this book. It was a struggle to read this one -- the thriller and mystery aspects were overtaken by completely divergent plots of terrorism and witchcraft, neither of which was executed well. I can't give up on this series yet (almost -- I will give it one more book) but I also would say read the beginning of the series not necessarily the latest books if you want some awesome romantic suspense!
I would recommend this to anyone that likes law enforcement thrillers, and must note that this particular book in the series had zero romance (which may be a good thing for some!). I can't recommend the first books in the series -- truly books 1-14-- highly enough, however, if you love romantic suspense.
The FBI Thriller series by Catherine Coulter has been one of my favorites for over ten years; I have anxiously awaited each new book every summer and typically devour them as fast I have them in my hands. Book #18, Power Play, was definitely my least favorite in the series to date but I wrote it off as a fluke since the other 17 books were all 4 or 5 star reads for me. But now I am worried -- not only has the romance completely vanished from the series but the true stars of the series -- Savich and Sherlock (read book 2, The Maze!) -- felt totally staid and boring in this book. It was a struggle to read this one -- the thriller and mystery aspects were overtaken by completely divergent plots of terrorism and witchcraft, neither of which was executed well. I can't give up on this series yet (almost -- I will give it one more book) but I also would say read the beginning of the series not necessarily the latest books if you want some awesome romantic suspense!
I would recommend this to anyone that likes law enforcement thrillers, and must note that this particular book in the series had zero romance (which may be a good thing for some!). I can't recommend the first books in the series -- truly books 1-14-- highly enough, however, if you love romantic suspense.
January 13, 2016
4.5 stars!!! Very very good read!
November 14, 2017
This series has been one that I have followed since it started. I really enjoyed the first books that centered on Savich and Sherlock and their cases. As the series went on more and more characters have been introduced with Savich and Sherlock often being supporting characters. This book has them back in the limelight with two separate cases. Sherlock, being in the right place at the wrong time, thwarts a terrorist attack and is pulled in to help with the investigation into the kingpin of the event and another that follows. I enjoyed this storyline and the investigation that went with it. Savich was involved in a separate storyline involving some paranormal activities and mind control. This plotline was not as interesting to me. There has always been some paranormal/supernatural aspects to the stories, but for some reason, this one did not speak to me. I will read the next one I have to see if I enjoy this story as much as others in the past.
July 20, 2015
Terrorists, Wiccans, and Witches - oh my! Two separate cases in this book, one for Sherlock to investigate and one for Savich to deal with.
Ordinarily, I really like this series and all the characters - new and old. I am not a fan of paranormal, nor do I intend to change that view.
The terrorist angle that Sherlock investigated was well written and very believable in these times. The paranormal angle that Savich investigated was also well written, but I'm too pragmatic to believe any of it. Although there were a couple of instances that I felt maybe Ms Coulter didn't know which way to run with the story, she managed to tie things up in the end.
2 thumbs up and 4 stars - no 5 stars for this book, sadly.
Ordinarily, I really like this series and all the characters - new and old. I am not a fan of paranormal, nor do I intend to change that view.
The terrorist angle that Sherlock investigated was well written and very believable in these times. The paranormal angle that Savich investigated was also well written, but I'm too pragmatic to believe any of it. Although there were a couple of instances that I felt maybe Ms Coulter didn't know which way to run with the story, she managed to tie things up in the end.
2 thumbs up and 4 stars - no 5 stars for this book, sadly.
August 21, 2022
Re-read.
I LOVE Sherlock and Dillon, the two main characters in this fabulous series. They never disappoint (or, I should say, that the author never fails to disappoint with her two main characters). It has two different mysteries, the sparkling interaction between Sherlock and Dillon and the "edge of your seat" suspense I always find in these stories. This was also the book in which a terrorist incident occurs and what Sherlock does in handling the situation which makes her famous. This event is one that is referred to in future books when people first meet her and say: "Oh, I know who you are. You are the FBI agent who . . . ." Sorry, you have to read the book to find out what she did! It is pretty amazing!
I LOVE Sherlock and Dillon, the two main characters in this fabulous series. They never disappoint (or, I should say, that the author never fails to disappoint with her two main characters). It has two different mysteries, the sparkling interaction between Sherlock and Dillon and the "edge of your seat" suspense I always find in these stories. This was also the book in which a terrorist incident occurs and what Sherlock does in handling the situation which makes her famous. This event is one that is referred to in future books when people first meet her and say: "Oh, I know who you are. You are the FBI agent who . . . ." Sorry, you have to read the book to find out what she did! It is pretty amazing!
August 3, 2015
Catherine Coulter is the author of numerous "New York Times" bestselling crime thrillers. She performs her storytelling expertise in "Nemesis" a page turner with pizzazz.
FBI Special Agents Dillon Savich and the gutsy Lacey Sherlock, a husband and wife team, work in two crime scenarios.
Sherlock is in line at JFK airport for the security check. She spots a man acting strangely. He fits the terrorist profile and as soon as the man grabs an unsuspecting woman and threatens to blow everyone up with a hand grenade. With her martial arts training, she disarms the man and saves many lives. However, in so doing, she becomes a target of revenge for the terrorist leader.
Savich is in Virginia where two people are murdered with an athane, a type of Wiccan ceremonial knife. Savich comes across a group of Wiccans who are out for revenge for two related crimes against them.
There is drama and excellent suspense as the reader follows the likable characters in their investigations. There are also a number of surprises as the two plots continue to play out. Interestingly, the reader follows the action from Savich and Sherlock's point of view but also from that of the arrogant terrorist leader.
Coulter tells the story in a manner that makes the reader proud of having an organization like the FBI that can foil the terrorists. In so doing, the reader learns the motivation of the terrorist leader.
The contempt that the terrorist has for America and England is explained and we root for Savich and Sherlock to stop the plot.
Some of the story dealt with a bomb at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York and at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The two structures mean so much to America and England that I would have enjoyed reading more of the descriptions of the two Cathedrals and what it would mean to destroy them.
Overall, an excellent read and captivating story.
FBI Special Agents Dillon Savich and the gutsy Lacey Sherlock, a husband and wife team, work in two crime scenarios.
Sherlock is in line at JFK airport for the security check. She spots a man acting strangely. He fits the terrorist profile and as soon as the man grabs an unsuspecting woman and threatens to blow everyone up with a hand grenade. With her martial arts training, she disarms the man and saves many lives. However, in so doing, she becomes a target of revenge for the terrorist leader.
Savich is in Virginia where two people are murdered with an athane, a type of Wiccan ceremonial knife. Savich comes across a group of Wiccans who are out for revenge for two related crimes against them.
There is drama and excellent suspense as the reader follows the likable characters in their investigations. There are also a number of surprises as the two plots continue to play out. Interestingly, the reader follows the action from Savich and Sherlock's point of view but also from that of the arrogant terrorist leader.
Coulter tells the story in a manner that makes the reader proud of having an organization like the FBI that can foil the terrorists. In so doing, the reader learns the motivation of the terrorist leader.
The contempt that the terrorist has for America and England is explained and we root for Savich and Sherlock to stop the plot.
Some of the story dealt with a bomb at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York and at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The two structures mean so much to America and England that I would have enjoyed reading more of the descriptions of the two Cathedrals and what it would mean to destroy them.
Overall, an excellent read and captivating story.
March 24, 2016
Let me get this straight.
This book contains two plot lines that never intersect in any meaningful way. One plot line involves- I kid you not- psychic FBI agents who battle a mysterious cloaked villain in some netherworld. This villain is using mind control to get some random Wiccans to murder people on his behalf. When informed about this, fellow FBI agents react not with "perhaps you should see someone" but with complete credulity. Apparently psychic visions are now de rigeur and admissible in court.
The second plot line involves a terrorist cell that, when described at all, rarely enjoys more than the word "Arabic." The cell is brought to its knees by another group of bumbling (though the author's intention was to impress) FBI agents who largely succeed through racial profiling. This terribly malformed narrative is at best disjointed, at worst schizophrenic, and unaided by the relentlessly corny detective tropes. Add in an abysmal production job rife with glaring errors, among them the apparent inability to spell even the main characters' names, and we seem to have a real loser of a novel here.
FYI- Catherine Coulter is a NY Times-bestselling author. Fortunately I have never, nor will I ever purchase one of her novels. I advise you to do likewise.
This book contains two plot lines that never intersect in any meaningful way. One plot line involves- I kid you not- psychic FBI agents who battle a mysterious cloaked villain in some netherworld. This villain is using mind control to get some random Wiccans to murder people on his behalf. When informed about this, fellow FBI agents react not with "perhaps you should see someone" but with complete credulity. Apparently psychic visions are now de rigeur and admissible in court.
The second plot line involves a terrorist cell that, when described at all, rarely enjoys more than the word "Arabic." The cell is brought to its knees by another group of bumbling (though the author's intention was to impress) FBI agents who largely succeed through racial profiling. This terribly malformed narrative is at best disjointed, at worst schizophrenic, and unaided by the relentlessly corny detective tropes. Add in an abysmal production job rife with glaring errors, among them the apparent inability to spell even the main characters' names, and we seem to have a real loser of a novel here.
FYI- Catherine Coulter is a NY Times-bestselling author. Fortunately I have never, nor will I ever purchase one of her novels. I advise you to do likewise.
July 12, 2015
Another excellent addition to the FBI series. It was great to have Savich and Sherlock back in the thick of things.
June 15, 2018
I didn't enjoy this one at all. The plot was just boring in its execution and I was wondering when it would finish.
Not a a good read.
Not a a good read.
October 10, 2024
Easy read about a married pair of FBI agents working two very different cases. Thought it would have been better if the author had focused so.ely on the case with the Algerian terrorist .
July 5, 2015
Fast paced non-stop thriller from the talented Ms. Coulter is fabulous. Nemesis starts off with a heart pounding scene. Sherlock is tired and waiting at the airport security line, looking forward to returning home. Instead of the usual mundane TSA frisking, a suicide bomber threatens to blow everyone up with a grenade. Sherlock is not a bleating sheep. She's a sheepdog ready to defend and boy does she take this terrorist down. This kicks off a new case for her with the world watching her every move. For the first time in a long while, Sherlock is flying solo sans her husband Savich.
Ms. Coulter does a great job of pulling in current events into this thriller. Some may find it too provocative and cry racism. I found it to be spot on. The motives behind the terrorist are well detailed in this book. Instead of labeling all Muslims as crazy jihadist who need to be slaughtered, Ms. Coulter shows how it's specific people who are the cause of this madness. Their motives can be blind faith, greed or hubris. Each one is plausible and realistic. It's also sad to see how some are forced into committing crimes in order to save the lives of others.
What I like about this series is how there are always two different cases going on at the same time. Usually they are somehow related. In the last few, Ms. Coulter is moving away from cased which are tied together and creating totally unrelated cases. She still cleverly ties in a central theme to pull it all together and I'm impressed.
The second plot to this story deals with Savich and his increasing cases involving unexplainable psychic phenomenon. His case deals with murder and magic, specifically with Wicca magic which should be "white" magic. This time husband and wife dynamic duo are separated and have to work on their cases independent of each other. Both are targeted by their respective perpetrators. Both cases involve fanatics of a religion. This is what makes the book come together in a cohesive manner. I loved it.
The characters in this book are all well developed. I always love Savich and Sherlock. The antagonists in the story for their respective cases are interesting. Why they commit the crime and their elaborate schemes are what keeps a reader's attention on this book. I could not put it down and ended up reading this book all in one sitting.
The pace of this book is fast as events unfold quickly. I enjoyed this pace and I can see this as a movie. The descriptions of the places as well as incorporating details of sound and smell helped make this book come alive for me. The compassion both Savich and Sherlock show to the ones who were forced to commit an atrocious act is heartwarming. This highly anticipated book delivers and is recommended to suspense lovers who enjoy bouncing between two well developed plots.
*provided by NetGalley
Ms. Coulter does a great job of pulling in current events into this thriller. Some may find it too provocative and cry racism. I found it to be spot on. The motives behind the terrorist are well detailed in this book. Instead of labeling all Muslims as crazy jihadist who need to be slaughtered, Ms. Coulter shows how it's specific people who are the cause of this madness. Their motives can be blind faith, greed or hubris. Each one is plausible and realistic. It's also sad to see how some are forced into committing crimes in order to save the lives of others.
What I like about this series is how there are always two different cases going on at the same time. Usually they are somehow related. In the last few, Ms. Coulter is moving away from cased which are tied together and creating totally unrelated cases. She still cleverly ties in a central theme to pull it all together and I'm impressed.
The second plot to this story deals with Savich and his increasing cases involving unexplainable psychic phenomenon. His case deals with murder and magic, specifically with Wicca magic which should be "white" magic. This time husband and wife dynamic duo are separated and have to work on their cases independent of each other. Both are targeted by their respective perpetrators. Both cases involve fanatics of a religion. This is what makes the book come together in a cohesive manner. I loved it.
The characters in this book are all well developed. I always love Savich and Sherlock. The antagonists in the story for their respective cases are interesting. Why they commit the crime and their elaborate schemes are what keeps a reader's attention on this book. I could not put it down and ended up reading this book all in one sitting.
The pace of this book is fast as events unfold quickly. I enjoyed this pace and I can see this as a movie. The descriptions of the places as well as incorporating details of sound and smell helped make this book come alive for me. The compassion both Savich and Sherlock show to the ones who were forced to commit an atrocious act is heartwarming. This highly anticipated book delivers and is recommended to suspense lovers who enjoy bouncing between two well developed plots.
*provided by NetGalley
July 17, 2015
Catherine Coulter is one of my favorite authors. I've read all the books in the FBI series and they deliver a great suspense plot every time. The terrorist plot is chilling and downright scary in that it could so easily be true.
Sherlock spoils a terrorist attack at JFK. Not long after a bomb explodes at St. Patrick's Cathedral, luckily no one is killed and the cathedral was only slightly damaged. Earlier in the day a man is murdered at the Rayburn House Office with a ritual knife used in witches ceremonies. What a day.
The terrorist from JFK will only talk to Sherlock and Savich is assigned to the stabbing death. Sherlock heads back to New York with Cal, an agent Savich wants to cover Sherlock's back while she works this very high profile case. As Sherlock begins to unravel the plot there are some who take is very personal that a red-headed woman would dare muck up their plans.
Savich deals with what appears to be mind control of the killer. He doesn't remember doing the stabbing and it turns out the victim was a very good friend. He swore he couldn't have killed him. Savich uncovers a family with strong powers and someone with a motive for revenge.
Sherlock spoils a terrorist attack at JFK. Not long after a bomb explodes at St. Patrick's Cathedral, luckily no one is killed and the cathedral was only slightly damaged. Earlier in the day a man is murdered at the Rayburn House Office with a ritual knife used in witches ceremonies. What a day.
The terrorist from JFK will only talk to Sherlock and Savich is assigned to the stabbing death. Sherlock heads back to New York with Cal, an agent Savich wants to cover Sherlock's back while she works this very high profile case. As Sherlock begins to unravel the plot there are some who take is very personal that a red-headed woman would dare muck up their plans.
Savich deals with what appears to be mind control of the killer. He doesn't remember doing the stabbing and it turns out the victim was a very good friend. He swore he couldn't have killed him. Savich uncovers a family with strong powers and someone with a motive for revenge.
August 10, 2015
An insipid book - I like Coulter and I've enjoyed her FBI Sherlock/Savich books, but this was not good. It was scattered, plot was very ADD, and hard to follow. She had two separate stories running through the book with no connectivity. Psycho wicked Wiccans and megalomaniac terrorists do not add up for me. Really - mental psychic manipulation to commit crimes? Also she tries to incorporate all her characters from the other series which I find distracting. Trying to remember who is what and why and how is too much. Not sure I'll read the "next" one. It seems like maybe she's just churning these out to make a $$...Unless you are just a huge huge fan of the series, I'd pass on this one.
April 23, 2017
Special Agents Lacey Sherlock and Dillon Savich, a married couple, are working separate cases in different states which is unusual and is driving Dillon crazy with worry since the terrorists have vowed to kill Sherlock for thwarting an airport bombing.
Who are the terrorists? The Taliban? Isis? Al-Qaeda? British born terrorists? American born terrorists? No one seems to know. Nemesis is a story where nothing is as it appears.
MacLeod Andrews and Renee Raudman performances as storytellers were on point. Nemesis was a very good read.
Who are the terrorists? The Taliban? Isis? Al-Qaeda? British born terrorists? American born terrorists? No one seems to know. Nemesis is a story where nothing is as it appears.
MacLeod Andrews and Renee Raudman performances as storytellers were on point. Nemesis was a very good read.
January 19, 2018
Maybe if I had read this series from the start, I might've enjoyed it. Unfortunately I was rather bored by this book. Also the topic of Wiccans and current-days witch-craft really don't interest me.
My eyes glazed over and my impatience and annoyance with the story got the better of me, I'm sorry to say.
This was my first Catherine Coulter book, and although I had high hopes, I was disappointed honestly. Special Agents Savich and Sherlock seem nice enough, but they are a bit too good to be true, a bit cooky-cutter too. Oh, well, I tried.
My eyes glazed over and my impatience and annoyance with the story got the better of me, I'm sorry to say.
This was my first Catherine Coulter book, and although I had high hopes, I was disappointed honestly. Special Agents Savich and Sherlock seem nice enough, but they are a bit too good to be true, a bit cooky-cutter too. Oh, well, I tried.
March 4, 2018
Normally I like Savich and Sherlock FBI thriller novels but I've abandoned this one. The beginning was interesting, about the terrorist at the airport and @ St. Patrick's cathedral, but then it went on to witchcraft and dream segments, neither one appealing to me and taking up too many pages. Too many books, too little time to waste on subjects that I don't care for.
September 2, 2021
This uncorrected proof of an FBI Thriller kept me up several nights. This particular mystery dealt with two separate stories, one dealing with terrorists and one with wiccans. Since the protagonists are married FBI agents, it explains the inclusion of their two stories. I can recommend this for those who love thrillers. Some parts will keep you on the edge of your seat.
May 20, 2017
This is closer to 3.5* but doesn't meet my 4* criteria. I've been reading this series for years (started in print form and now doing audiobooks). I don't know whether I've become too critical, or whether the books have lost some of their touch.
January 2, 2018
I had to concentrate to keep up with all the action in this book. There were FBI agents galore. Terrorist actions pending and intercepted. It was non-stop action. I enjoyed this story immensely.
October 21, 2019
I'm a big fan of this FBI series! Savich and Sherlock and great characters, in my opinion. As soon as I finish one, I can't wait to start the next one!
February 24, 2017
*I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
NEMESIS is the 19th book in the FBI Thrillers series by Catherine Coulter.
POV: third person
TENSE: past
SETTING: Washington and Virginia
SEXUAL CONTENT: none
This was another book that I received an ARC through Netgalley but ended up reading in hardback from the public library.
Like other books in this series, NEMESIS contains two main plots. One is about a terrorist attack, and the other is about a killer who hypnotizes other people into committing murders for him. So, similar to some of the other books, there is a normal storyline and a paranormal storyline.
I found myself becoming bored with the one about the terrorists, but I was very interested in the story about the hypnotist killer. Part of the reason is I tend to lean toward the paranormal in my preferences. Another reason is I didn’t know the characters who were investigating the terrorist attacks. Sherlock was involved off and on, but not enough to hold my interest. The new characters were not in much danger, and I didn’t care much about them.
Compared to the previous book POWER PLAY, NEMESIS was easier to follow both story lines. The book didn’t seem as overpopulated or overdone with too many things going on at once. I liked that the author stayed with one storyline for at least a few chapters before going back to the other one. It was an easier read.
I also liked that there was less head-hopping in this book. The author did a better job of staying in one point of view at a time.
The book is fast-paced. There is plenty of action and danger to hold a reader’s attention.
On the negative side, the villain was too similar to the villain in the previous book. There were some differences–witchcraft and dream manipulation–but I would have liked to have seen something other than mind control/hypnotism.
Another negative was that the villains are easy to figure out. There weren’t many red herrings. Although it was necessary for the investigation for the author to hide the villain’s identity, it didn’t feel like there was much of a mystery. That’s okay to a certain extent because the book is not listed as a mystery. I just think that some Catherine Coulter fans will expect a mystery based on previous books, and this book did not deliver on that aspect.
The book also had some editing issues. For example, there is a part of the story where Griffin repeats what Savich says almost word for word.
Overall, though, I enjoyed reading NEMESIS. It renewed my interest in this series. I will read more books by Catherine Coulter in the future.
NEMESIS is the 19th book in the FBI Thrillers series by Catherine Coulter.
POV: third person
TENSE: past
SETTING: Washington and Virginia
SEXUAL CONTENT: none
This was another book that I received an ARC through Netgalley but ended up reading in hardback from the public library.
Like other books in this series, NEMESIS contains two main plots. One is about a terrorist attack, and the other is about a killer who hypnotizes other people into committing murders for him. So, similar to some of the other books, there is a normal storyline and a paranormal storyline.
I found myself becoming bored with the one about the terrorists, but I was very interested in the story about the hypnotist killer. Part of the reason is I tend to lean toward the paranormal in my preferences. Another reason is I didn’t know the characters who were investigating the terrorist attacks. Sherlock was involved off and on, but not enough to hold my interest. The new characters were not in much danger, and I didn’t care much about them.
Compared to the previous book POWER PLAY, NEMESIS was easier to follow both story lines. The book didn’t seem as overpopulated or overdone with too many things going on at once. I liked that the author stayed with one storyline for at least a few chapters before going back to the other one. It was an easier read.
I also liked that there was less head-hopping in this book. The author did a better job of staying in one point of view at a time.
The book is fast-paced. There is plenty of action and danger to hold a reader’s attention.
On the negative side, the villain was too similar to the villain in the previous book. There were some differences–witchcraft and dream manipulation–but I would have liked to have seen something other than mind control/hypnotism.
Another negative was that the villains are easy to figure out. There weren’t many red herrings. Although it was necessary for the investigation for the author to hide the villain’s identity, it didn’t feel like there was much of a mystery. That’s okay to a certain extent because the book is not listed as a mystery. I just think that some Catherine Coulter fans will expect a mystery based on previous books, and this book did not deliver on that aspect.
The book also had some editing issues. For example, there is a part of the story where Griffin repeats what Savich says almost word for word.
Overall, though, I enjoyed reading NEMESIS. It renewed my interest in this series. I will read more books by Catherine Coulter in the future.
May 27, 2017
I love Catherine Coulter, so it's no secret that I adore her FBI Thriller Series featuring the husband/wife FBI Agents, Savich and Sherlock. All of the novels are quick reads with a dab of romance thrown in. For a Murder Mystery and Thriller reader as myself, this series is pure brain manna.
In NYC, Lacey Sherlock is returning to Washington, D.C. She sees "something" in the man in front of her and Melissa. Something is not right. A grenade is the man's hand. No wonder he's fidgety about going through the Airport's TSA scan. Of course, Sherlock jumps into action. Within 45 minutes later a bomb goes off at the Cathedral near Ground Zero. Was the Airport incident a diversion, and the bombing at the Church the real target? Sherlock now has to take part in the investigation, because the would be bomber will only talk to her. And what he tells her terrifies Lacey Sherlock.
Meanwhile, a young man is stabbed to death at the capital. An Athame plunged into his heart. The murderer has no memory of killing his best friend. Another murder with another Athame sends Dillion and Special Agent Griffin Hammersmith into a small Virginia town in which there are many Wicca. The Athame is used in Wiccan rituals. And the son of a powerful witch has killed the small town's Deputy.
Savich will need Grif's help because a powerful Empath or Telepath is trying to kill him. Again the signs point to the Alcotts - a family of powerful witches.
And if the cases were'nt weird enough, the two collide! And the suspense ratchets up several notches!
I'm glad Catherine Coulter brought Savich's "talent" back into this installment; it's been awhile. I felt myself holding my breath when Dillon was attacked. All in all - a very good read.
In NYC, Lacey Sherlock is returning to Washington, D.C. She sees "something" in the man in front of her and Melissa. Something is not right. A grenade is the man's hand. No wonder he's fidgety about going through the Airport's TSA scan. Of course, Sherlock jumps into action. Within 45 minutes later a bomb goes off at the Cathedral near Ground Zero. Was the Airport incident a diversion, and the bombing at the Church the real target? Sherlock now has to take part in the investigation, because the would be bomber will only talk to her. And what he tells her terrifies Lacey Sherlock.
Meanwhile, a young man is stabbed to death at the capital. An Athame plunged into his heart. The murderer has no memory of killing his best friend. Another murder with another Athame sends Dillion and Special Agent Griffin Hammersmith into a small Virginia town in which there are many Wicca. The Athame is used in Wiccan rituals. And the son of a powerful witch has killed the small town's Deputy.
Savich will need Grif's help because a powerful Empath or Telepath is trying to kill him. Again the signs point to the Alcotts - a family of powerful witches.
And if the cases were'nt weird enough, the two collide! And the suspense ratchets up several notches!
I'm glad Catherine Coulter brought Savich's "talent" back into this installment; it's been awhile. I felt myself holding my breath when Dillon was attacked. All in all - a very good read.
Read
July 13, 2015Nemesis is an entertaining summer read. And for the first time since Backfire in her FBI series, the plotline and story threads meld into a cohesive whole that held my interest from start to end. There's no starred rating because it's impossible for me not to compare this completely different, simplistic writing style with C.C.'s caliber of writing from Split Second all the way back to The Autumn Countess.
Talented writers are like other artists in that their styles evolve, but the flatness in the characterizations and lack of fresh zing in the dialogue reads as if a completely different person is writing C.C.'s books now in a weak imitation of her signature style. Sherlock and Savich's chemistry is resusitated a little bit in Nemesis, but Kelly and Cal's personal storyline reads like an obligatory, forced add-on just because there's always a new crime-fighting couple established by the conclusion of every FBI story.
Nemesis shares a disturbing trait with Sandra Brown's Mean Streak: They both portray people who live in the woods as caricatures of backward hicks in ways that feel dated.
The glimmers of C.C.'s former greatness keep my hope active that her mojo of compelling originality will soon return full force.
[minor proofreading incorrect/correct oversights: pg.101 Something or someone was in charge of his spirit-walk thought/through these woods and toward the unknown. pg.256 "It is dangerous to play the hero in a holy way/war,"... pg.305 Savich didn't understood/understand that... pg.321 missing open quotes before, ["]Actually, Basara hasn't... pg.336 missing open quotes before, ["]Delilah, you've got to give him up...]
Talented writers are like other artists in that their styles evolve, but the flatness in the characterizations and lack of fresh zing in the dialogue reads as if a completely different person is writing C.C.'s books now in a weak imitation of her signature style. Sherlock and Savich's chemistry is resusitated a little bit in Nemesis, but Kelly and Cal's personal storyline reads like an obligatory, forced add-on just because there's always a new crime-fighting couple established by the conclusion of every FBI story.
Nemesis shares a disturbing trait with Sandra Brown's Mean Streak: They both portray people who live in the woods as caricatures of backward hicks in ways that feel dated.
The glimmers of C.C.'s former greatness keep my hope active that her mojo of compelling originality will soon return full force.
[minor proofreading incorrect/correct oversights: pg.101 Something or someone was in charge of his spirit-walk thought/through these woods and toward the unknown. pg.256 "It is dangerous to play the hero in a holy way/war,"... pg.305 Savich didn't understood/understand that... pg.321 missing open quotes before, ["]Actually, Basara hasn't... pg.336 missing open quotes before, ["]Delilah, you've got to give him up...]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2015
Nemesis was a fantastic book with a slapstick twist. I think that the fumbling terrorists may insult some readers, but if you take it with a grain of salt, and just enjoy the writing, the book is wildly entertaining.
I’m not familiar with the Sherlock/FBI series, and so coming into this series on book 19 didn’t make me feel like I was at a disadvantage. I could easily go back and read the rest of the series, as the Catherine Coulter has tactfully paid homage to the other books in the series without giving anything away for the newer readers. Very well done.
Nemesis really gets you on the edge of your seat at the very start of the book. A wonderful atmosphere of suspense creates the narrative for Sherlock’s adventures this time a round, and Coulter doesn’t let you breathe a sigh of relief until you turn the very last page.
There’s two plots running together with this book, and the murders that Savich is trying to solve is a little on the fantastical side. However this is well balanced by the rest of the novel, and whilst the resolution is predictable (at least for me) this doesn’t detract from the book at all, and it is still very enjoyable to read.
Coulter has interspersed some serious subjects with great humor, and the characters, those that you’re meant to like anyways, are likeable and real. There’s a few moments in the book where I laughed out loud, and that’s always a great indication of the book hitting the right notes.
A great book and I’ll have to look in to the rest of the FBI series now.
I’m not familiar with the Sherlock/FBI series, and so coming into this series on book 19 didn’t make me feel like I was at a disadvantage. I could easily go back and read the rest of the series, as the Catherine Coulter has tactfully paid homage to the other books in the series without giving anything away for the newer readers. Very well done.
Nemesis really gets you on the edge of your seat at the very start of the book. A wonderful atmosphere of suspense creates the narrative for Sherlock’s adventures this time a round, and Coulter doesn’t let you breathe a sigh of relief until you turn the very last page.
There’s two plots running together with this book, and the murders that Savich is trying to solve is a little on the fantastical side. However this is well balanced by the rest of the novel, and whilst the resolution is predictable (at least for me) this doesn’t detract from the book at all, and it is still very enjoyable to read.
Coulter has interspersed some serious subjects with great humor, and the characters, those that you’re meant to like anyways, are likeable and real. There’s a few moments in the book where I laughed out loud, and that’s always a great indication of the book hitting the right notes.
A great book and I’ll have to look in to the rest of the FBI series now.
January 22, 2016
Nemesis is another exciting adventure in Coulter's FBI thriller series. Sherlock and Savage both find themselves dealing with ruthless villains as two cases put them up against dangerous people. Sherlock finds herself the target of a madman when she foils an attack at the airport putting not just her but her family at risk. Savage finds himself facing a diabolical killer who uses a unique method to murder. Two cases means double the twists and turns.
One thing I love about this series is the strong relationship and connection between Sherlock and Savage. Their family while not front and center really grounds the series making the stakes higher for them both. I liked seeing both Sherlock and Savage working their own cases with their different teams while keeping their bond strong. The cases were both interesting, and Nemesis definitely is action packed and suspenseful keeping the reader's attention from beginning to end. I also enjoyed the secondary characters like Cal, Kelly, and Griffin who helped to add to the book's stories. Overall Nemesis was a great read, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Received a copy of Nemesis through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I love about this series is the strong relationship and connection between Sherlock and Savage. Their family while not front and center really grounds the series making the stakes higher for them both. I liked seeing both Sherlock and Savage working their own cases with their different teams while keeping their bond strong. The cases were both interesting, and Nemesis definitely is action packed and suspenseful keeping the reader's attention from beginning to end. I also enjoyed the secondary characters like Cal, Kelly, and Griffin who helped to add to the book's stories. Overall Nemesis was a great read, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Received a copy of Nemesis through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2025
3.5 stars.
Feb 2025 - re-listened. Now I'm getting into the books that I've only read or listened once or twice. So I am finding myself rewinding to get back into the nuances of the story. I found the Savich / Hammersmith combo ending with the psychic case just a tad unbelievable but we also get some foreshadowing on Hammersmith's relationship with Anna the DEA agent from Bombshell.
As for Sherlock's case, personally I thought her initial action at the airport more reckless than heroic. But that's just me.
April 2022 - listened.
________________
August 2015 - read
A mix of straight "romantic" suspense and paranormal. Sherlock's case was very topical but I found Savich's witchhunt more interesting. Not much romance at all, just a token nod to a couple of secondary characters who might be getting together. Still, a good story overall.
Feb 2025 - re-listened. Now I'm getting into the books that I've only read or listened once or twice. So I am finding myself rewinding to get back into the nuances of the story. I found the Savich / Hammersmith combo ending with the psychic case just a tad unbelievable but we also get some foreshadowing on Hammersmith's relationship with Anna the DEA agent from Bombshell.
As for Sherlock's case, personally I thought her initial action at the airport more reckless than heroic. But that's just me.
April 2022 - listened.
________________
August 2015 - read
A mix of straight "romantic" suspense and paranormal. Sherlock's case was very topical but I found Savich's witchhunt more interesting. Not much romance at all, just a token nod to a couple of secondary characters who might be getting together. Still, a good story overall.
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