Scorched Earth

Jonathan Grave #17

by John Gilstrap

Vengeance, murder, and violent political games are on a collision course in a propulsive Jonathan Grave thriller by New York Times bestselling author John Gilstrap.

Disgraced U.S. President Darmond has been ousted from office, but his minions have taken aim at everyone they perceive to be enemies. Off-the-record contractors on a secret list are being eliminated, one by one. 

Jonathan Grave and his Security Solutions team manage to turn the tables when the assassins come for them. But the ultimate attack will strike deep at the heart of what’s best about American values.

High-tech weapons, terror-driven fanatics, and top-level betrayal shred the peace of a peaceful gathering in the rolling hills of rural North Carolina. In this showdown, the winner will take all.

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Action, Fiction, Suspense

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2026

About the author

A little bit about my background... I've always been a closet-writer. As a kid, I lived for the opportunity to write short stories. I was the editor of my high school newspaper for a while (the Valor Dictus, Robinson High School, class of 1975), until I quit ("You can't fire me! I quit!") over a lofty First Amendment issue that seemed very important at the time. My goal, in fact, was to become a journalist in the vein of Woodward or Bernstein. Okay, I confess, I wanted to be Woodward; Robert Redford played him in the movie, and chicks really dug Robert Redford.

I graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1979, and armed with a degree in American history, I couldn't find a job. I ended up settling for a position with a little-noticed trade journal serving the construction industry. They called me the managing editor and they paid me food stamp wages. I hated it. About this time, I joined the Burke Volunteer Fire Department in Fairfax County, Virginia, if only to find relief from the boredom of my job. Running about a thousand calls my first year with the department, I was hooked, and the volunteer fire service became an important part of my life for the next 15 years. In the early eighties, hating my job, I went the way of all frustrated liberal arts undergrads—back to graduate school. Earning a Master of Science degree in safety engineering from the University of Southern California, I started down a whole new road. For the next decade and a half, I became an expert (don't you hate that word?) on explosives safety and hazardous waste. Meanwhile, I kept writing. I didn't tell anyone, of course, because, well, you just don't share artistic dreams with fellow engineers. They look at you funny.

My first novel, Nathan's Run, was in fact my fourth novel, and when it sold, it sold big. At a time in my life when things were going well—I was president of my own consulting firm—things were suddenly going very well. Warner Bros. bought the movie rights to Nathan's Run two days after the first book rights were sold, and as of this date, the novel has been translated and published in one form or another in over 20 countries. With Nathan's Run in the can, as it were, I thought I might finally be on to something, but I didn't quit my "day job" until after I sold the book and movie rights to my second novel, At All Costs. I figured that while one-in-a-row might be luck, two-in-a-row was a trend. So, I started writing full-time.

More novels followed, and then a few screenplays. I was living the dream.

But I really didn't like it much. I learned pretty quickly that when you're born a Type-A personality, those extrovert tendencies don't go away just because you're practicing a craft you love. In fact, after just a couple of years of dream fulfillment, I was pretty friggin' bored with the company of my imaginary friends, so I did something that I've never heard a full-time artist do before: I went back to a day job. At first, it was just a matter of reactivating my consulting business, but then, in 2004, I was handed my ideal Big-Boy Job (that's what my wife calls it) working as the director of safety for a trade association in Washington, DC.

And I continue to write. In 2006, Six Minutes to Freedom was published to considerable acclaim. My first (and probably last) foray into book-length non-fiction, SixMin tells the story of Kurt Muse, the only civilian of record ever rescued by the super-secret Delta Force. Thanks to Kurt's cooperation (he is co-author), I gained access to people and places that lifelong civilians like me should never see. The heroic warriors I met during that research turned out to be nothing like their movie stereotypes. These were not only gentlemen, but gentle men, who remained free of the kind of boasting and self-aggrandizement that I was expecting. They were supreme professionals, and very nice guys.

And through them I got the idea for my new series character, Jonathan Grave. He's fo

Reviews

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

l won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and would like to thank them and Kensington Books.

John Gilstrap delivered another home run with this 17th entry in the Jonathan Grave series. While it can be read as a standalone reading the previous books give much background to the characters.

The story ties to former FBI head lrene Rivers (who you can read in her solo adventure Burned Bridges) ran a few off book operatives in her days in charge. Graves and his team are one of those groups.

The action starts very early in the book when Graves is fired upon. Turns out some of lrene's offbooks folks have been targeted for assassination. Looking into the attack leads the team down a road to prevent a terrorist attack.

One thing l love about this series is the periodic comic relief thrown in to some amazing action stories.

[David Jonescu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Upon receiving this book, I did not realize it was part of a large series about Jonathan Grave, I was just interested in the plot. Having not known it was part of a series, I think John Gilstrap makes you feel welcome into this world. At times I felt I was missing some background but it ultimately didn’t matter much. I thoroughly enjoyed this intense but a quick read of a book!

I received a free advanced copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Stacey Reads It All · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found Scorched Earth to be a solid, middle-of-the-road entry in the Jonathan Grave series. The plot moved quickly and delivered the kind of high-stakes action and moral tension fans would expect, but it didn’t surprise me the way earlier installments did. The pacing stayed brisk throughout, though a few plot turns felt predictable and some parts didn’t land as strongly as they might have.

Jonathan Grave remained a compelling lead, and I appreciated how the story explored the cost of his choices, even if the supporting characters weren’t as fully developed this time around. The action sequences were vivid and easy to follow, which kept me engaged even when the narrative leaned on familiar series formulas.

Basil Sands’s narration was a highlight. His steady delivery and clear character differentiation helped maintain momentum and added intensity to the suspenseful moments. He captured the tone of the story well and made the listening experience consistently enjoyable.

Overall, I had a good time with this audiobook, even if it wasn’t among my favorites in the series.

Thank you to HighBridge Audio and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always Jonathan and his team are the good guys and when they stumble on a plot to kill a bunch of innocent kids at camp they have to stop it. The only question is will that get there in time?

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Highbridge Audio for the ALC of Scorched Earth by John Gilstrap! My review is my own.

I am a long time fan of John Gilstrap having previously read 11 of the, now, 17 books in the Jonathan Grave series. This edition to the series was Jonathan Grave at his best! He has a heart of gold, down deep inside, especially when it comes to kids, and he’ll need it to save the day this time!

This book was fast-paced with a lot of action. The banter between the good guys is always one of my favorite parts of the writing. Highly recommend. While reading the series from the beginning will help with understanding some of the relationships in the books, each book is pretty much a standalone that can be enjoyed on its own.

The narration, read by Basil Sands, was fantastic as well!

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another phenomenal installment in the Jonathan Grave series!
Although it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone… In case anyone needs to know… but of course I’d recommend reading as many as you can…

This one really hits home! Politics. Secrets. Grave danger. High profile sources making terrifying deals…
It’s all there! The part I was NOT thrilled about, was the fact that kids were involved…
But I guess when it comes to the bad guys, all bets are off…

Thank God, the good guys were in the lead for this one though!!

But when you find out all the players involved… and why… well, your mouth might just be hanging open too!

I love that these guys give you hero’s to cheer on! I don’t love that the bad guys are right on their tails though…

Terrific plot. Terrific, if terrifying situations…. Things that really make you think… and wonder… and consider just what the heck this world is coming to…

5 bold,crazy, scary, good vs evil stars for me!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#ScorchedEarth by @JohnGilstrap and narrated wonderfully by @BasilSands.

This one is being released today, 2/24/26… so, look 👀 for it on shelves now!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @HighBridge and @HighBridgeAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!!

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A special ops team that did off-the-books work for the former head of a US intelligence service is now being hunted. When they neutralize the attack, they learn they are just one entry on a list of those being targeted for termination. But who wants them eliminated...and why? The story builds as they race to contact the others on the list before it's too late. At the same time, the clues they find hint at an upcoming event of some magnitude. It's a well-written and well-narrated thriller with lots of high-tech equipment and high stakes. 4.4 stars.
My thanks to the author, @JohnGilstrap, publisher, @HighbridgeAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #ScorchedEarth for review purposes. Publication date: 23 February 2026.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy / audiobook provided via Net Galley.

4.5⭐️’s - I really enjoyed this audiobook!! The story was fast-paced and easy to stay engaged with. The narrator was also on point & was excellent capturing the different characters & voices.

The characters felt distinct and not like completely random NPC’s out there as filler.

It had a good balance of tension and plot within without ever feeling overly complicated or hard to follow.

I didn’t realise when requesting it that this was part of a long-running series, but it works perfectly well as a standalone. I never felt like I was missing anything important & could simply listen without worrying about having to do further research to understand what was happening.

Overall, a very entertaining listen that I’d happily recommend to anyone who enjoys action driven thrillers.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC of the audience Scorched Earth.

This is the first book I have read by this author but this didn’t impact on y enjoyment of the plot or understanding of the characters.

Scorched Earth is a fast paced latest book in the the Jonathan Grave series. Grave and his Security Solutions team are drawn into a deadly conspiracy when a US senator is revealed to have deadly motives, combining high tech planning, betrayal, and chilling ambition. The author’s detailed tactical knowledge are brought to life by the engaging narration, making the tension immediate and gripping.

A solid four stars and a thrilling, technically sharp audiobook that blends suspense, moral complexity, and explosive set pieces for fans of political thrillers.

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scorched Earth is the 17th book in the Jonathan Graves series from John Gilstrap. All can be read as standalones.

"When a shooter tries to take out Jonathan and Gail, the team finds that someone is after a group of contractors that could stop them from an unimaginable acto of terrorism - one that would shake the nation to its core. Jonathan and team set out to stop it."

This book is full of the action we expect from a John Gilstrap story. I like that he doesn't get bogged down in weapon details. He tells you what it is and Digger and company go and fight the bag guys with it. If you've never read this series, Digger has a moral code of right and wrong without bothering with due process, although he does make a decision that doesn't line up with that exactly in this book. One that comes back for him at the end.
The final scene during the EVENT is crazy. Gilstrap never lets you know until it's over what the final outcome will be.

Wildly entertaining book from Gilstrap. Great for fans of action and suspense.

[Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Your feral little raccoon is back, and yes, I absolutely launched myself into Scorched Earth by John Gilstrap without realizing we were SEVENTEEN BOOKS deep into the Jonathan Grave saga. Seventeen. That is a full-blown commitment. That is a mortgage. That is a relationship with shared streaming passwords. And there I was, vibing like I’d just wandered into a family reunion and confidently hugged someone’s uncle.

Was I a little lost? Sure. Did I occasionally feel like everyone else had inside jokes I wasn’t in on? Also yes. But did I still have a good time? Honestly… yeah.

The premise alone is catnip for anyone who enjoys political chaos with a side of tactical competence. Disgraced former President Darmond has been ousted, but his bitter little Avengers squad is out here targeting off-the-books contractors tied to former FBI head Irene Rivers. Enter Jonathan Grave and his Security Solutions team, who are apparently allergic to minding their own business and immediately find themselves dodging assassination attempts. A sniper takes a shot at Grave and Gail, which is not how most people prefer to start their workday.

What unfolds is a fast-moving tangle of ex-military operatives, a sitting senator with deeply questionable vibes, and something ominously referred to as “The Event.” I love when thrillers capitalize things. It’s giving, “This will be traumatic and possibly televised.”

The action is relentless. Like, blink and you’ve missed a body drop. There’s high-tech weaponry, organized extremists, and enough moral gray area to make a philosophy professor sweat. Gilstrap clearly knows his tactical stuff, and while sometimes I felt like I was eavesdropping on a very intense military group chat, the momentum never really dips. When this book moves, it MOVES.

Now let’s talk audiobook, because Basil Sands narrates this thing with the gravitas of a man who has seen some things. His voice has that dignified, steady cadence that makes even the wildest action sequences feel grounded. There’s something deeply amusing about hearing absolute chaos delivered in what sounds like a very polished news anchor tone. It’s like if your local NPR host calmly described an explosion in rural North Carolina. I will say, occasionally some of the male voices blended together for me, and I had to context-clue my way through who was speaking. But overall, he absolutely carried the tension and made the listen smooth and immersive.

Jonathan Grave himself is an interesting lead. He’s the patriotic, justice-driven type who will absolutely bend the ethical rulebook into a paper airplane if it means protecting innocent people. I respect a man with a moral code… even if it sometimes reads like, “The ends justify the extremely explosive means.” His dynamic with his team has that found-family energy that I could tell has been built over many books. I didn’t have all the backstory, but I could feel it humming underneath the surface, like I’d shown up late to a long-running Dungeons & Dragons campaign.

And here’s the thing. Even coming in at book seventeen like a chaotic gremlin, I never felt completely shut out. I was occasionally confused in a, “Wait, have we met?” kind of way, but the core stakes were clear. There’s a terrorist plot brewing, innocent lives at risk, and a ticking clock situation that barrels toward a showdown in North Carolina. You do not need sixteen prior textbooks to understand that bad men with high-powered weapons are, in fact, bad.

Did it reinvent the political thriller wheel? Not exactly. A few turns felt familiar. Some reveals landed more as a firm nod than a gasp. But it was solid. Entertaining. Competently brutal. The kind of book that knows exactly what it wants to be and executes it with military precision.

Here’s where I land: I’m not emotionally prepared to start another seventeen-book commitment right now. I have other series circling me like needy houseplants. But this? This is going on the short list. Because if book seventeen is this tight and readable for a complete accidental tourist like me, I can only imagine how satisfying it would be to start at the beginning and watch the relationships build properly.

Three and a half stars. A very respectable, “I had a good time and might come back for more when I’m ready to emotionally invest” rating.

Whodunity Award: For Convincing Me I Could Totally Jump Into a Seventeen-Book Political Firestorm With Nothing But Vibes

And a huge thank you to HighBridge Audio and NetGalley for the ALC. You handed this raccoon the keys to a seventeen-book tactical empire and said, “Go forth.” I appreciate the trust. I promise to cause only minimal chaos.

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Gilstrap returns with Scorched Earth, the seventeenth book in the Jonathan Grave Thriller series. Irene Rivers burned her FBI career taking down disgraced U.S. President Darmond and many of his collaborators. But that doesn’t mean everyone was found. Some of his collaborators are attempting to kill off-the-record contractors that Rivers used when she didn’t know who to trust within the FBI.

Jonathan Grave and his Security Solutions team manage to survive when a killer comes after them, but the ultimate attack is something that will be hard hitting. Can the team discover who or what will be attacked and stop it? Most of the novel takes place in Wellington County, North Carolina.
Grave loves his country. He’s great at making connections, planning, and adjusting as situations change. As a bold and intense protagonist, he runs a detective agency that has a clandestine sideline to it. He stands up for justice, but is willing to cross the line to ethical ambiguity to get it. Not everyone will connect with him, but he’s very good at bringing justice to victims of evil.

The first chapter grabs readers attention and lets them know that this is going to be an action-packed thriller that will keep them rapidly turning the pages. Gilstrap is an excellent storyteller who combines a creative plot with gripping scenes and plenty of action and suspense. Insightful and moving, it features characters that readers will root for as the story unfolds. Who will survive and can Jonathan and his team stop the killing?

The author has crafted a fast-paced narrative filled with suspense, intrigue, as well as deadly and bloody action sequences. This morally complex story has threads of vengeance, murder, greed, corruption, and political games that are at its heart. There’s a strong sense of unease throughout the book that culminates in a dramatic and dangerous ending.

Overall, this was an intense, engrossing, and suspenseful novel with a riveting story arc that kept me engaged throughout. While this novel can be read as a standalone, readers will be missing some background and character growth and changes over time. I can’t wait to see where the author takes the next book in the series. Readers of action and political thrillers will likely enjoy this series.

Kensington Publishing – Kensington and John Gilstrap provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 24, 2026.
------------------------------------
My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.

[Carole Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cataclysmic event is being plotted...but by whom and why?

Someone has a list of seemingly unconnected people they want eliminated, and the killings are underway, Unfortunately (for the killer, anyway) one of the targeted victims is Jonathan Grave, head of Security Solutions Inc., a covert security firm that specializes in hostage rescue. Grave and his team are just not easy people to kill, and the man assigned to take him out not only fails in his mission but sets Grave and his team on a path to find out who is on the list and why. They discover that the link goes back to former FBI Director Irene Rivers, who recently tanked her own career when she exposed the corruption of the then-President and his administration. Rivers had a tendency to use outside talent (like Grave's group) to investigate things when she couldn't be sure of her own department's honesty, and the people on the kill list had each done work for Rivers in that capacity. It seems that someone she had outside people investigate has something important to hide, something worth killing people to keep secret. As Grave and his team hone in on the likely suspect, they uncover something even worse than the kill list....someone is planning a devastating attack on US soil. Can they connect the dots quickly enough to prevent the slaughter of innocents?
Scorched Earth is the 17th installment in author John Gilstrap's series featuring Jonathan Grave, and while it is a book which can be read and enjoyed as a standalone a reader will have a better handle on the characters and their relationships with one another if they've read previous installments. As always Grave (Digger) is the main protagonist, but Gail (Gunslinger), Boxers (Big Guy) and Venice (Mother Hen) are all very much a part of the adventure. This time around, with Irene Rivers (Wolverine) no longer in a position to provide help as she had done in the past the group is flying solo. Political intrigue, personal vendettas and disillusionment all factor in to the plot to spill copious amounts of blood on US soil, making for an engrossing page turner of a book. Plenty of action and energy move the plot along quickly, and while it doesn't break much new ground it is a solid addition to the series and will please its fans. Readers of Mark Greaney, Jack Carr and Gregg Hurwitz should check it out as well. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to this latest in an excellent action series in exchange for my honest review.

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love this series!

We are 17 books in and this is one series that just keeps getting better. I always know that Mr. Gilstrap is going to takes us on a crazy adventure that always seems to get even crazier. Building the tension until I find myself holding my breath - waiting and hoping that our guys are going to come out on top. He does not disappoint.

Add to that getting to drop back in to their world with the wonderful family that they have created - Jonathan Grave (Digger), Big Guy, Mother Hen and Gunslinger - and it just makes everything better.

This storyline takes us on a crazy adventure that starts off with a sniper trying to kill Digger and Gunslinger (Jonathan and Gail). That one act starts the team on an investigation that leads to an even bigger discovery. One involving a sitting Senator, an organized group of ex-military men who feel that their country has let them down (big time) and for the right amount of money, are easily convinced to be a part of something that will have HUGE ramifications. They named it "The Event".

The problem is that there are only breadcrumbs to follow in the beginning and the more they uncover, they begin to realize that there might not be enough time to figure everything out.

As usual (and did we really ever doubt it?) there is non-stop action, LOTS of danger, and Big Guy ends up getting to use lots of his "toys" for maximum damage.

Seriously fun...and thrilling and I loved every minute of it.

This was an Audio ARC or ALC and it was narrated by Basil Sands, who has pretty much been the voice of this series for most of the prior 17 books. As usual, he has created unique portrayals of our favorite characters though I will say that for some reason, I felt like the distinction between Digger and Big Guy felt a little different this time. Usually, his portrayal of Big Guy is EXTREMELY unique- he has the DEEPEST voice, perfect for what we have come to expect from him. This time, I felt like Digger's voice was a little too similar to Big Guy and that was a bit weird. Digger's voice has always been his own unique voice (not as deep and more fluid) and there were times when I honestly could not tell the difference when the two were talking. That had not happened before. But again, maybe it was me. You never know - sometimes it is me - you never know. Regardless, I enjoyed it immensely.

Thank you to NetGalley and HighBridge | Highbridge Audio for the opportunity to listen to and review this Audio ARC/ ALC. This book will be out for publication on February 24, 2026.

[Ganesh Subramanian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scorched Earth by John Gilstrap is a fast-paced political thriller. It continues the story of Jonathan Grave and his Security Solutions team.
A disgraced former U.S. President, Darmond, has been forced out of office. But his removal does not end the danger. His loyal followers begin targeting people they see as enemies. Many of these targets are off-the-record contractors who once helped former FBI Director Irene Rivers when she could not trust her own agency.
Jonathan Grave and his team are on that secret list. When assassins come after them, they survive and decide to fight back. They want to know who is responsible and why. As they investigate, they uncover a larger conspiracy driven by revenge, greed, and political corruption.
The violence soon reaches a peaceful gathering in rural North Carolina. High-tech weapons, fanatic loyalty, and betrayal shatter the calm. Innocent lives are at risk. The story shows not only explosive action but also the human cost of conflict.
The novel maintains strong momentum from the first chapter. It explores moral tension, loyalty, and justice. Jonathan Grave must navigate a world where right and wrong are not always simple. In this battle, survival is only the beginning. The book continues the Jonathan Grave series with a strong focus on political conflict and revenge. The story builds into a tense pursuit of justice. The pacing is fast, and the action scenes are detailed and intense.
Readers who enjoy high-stakes thrillers will appreciate the constant sense of danger. The plot includes themes of loyalty, betrayal, and political corruption. However, some readers may find the political backdrop familiar if they have read similar thrillers before. The story relies heavily on action, which may limit deeper character development.
That said, the novel succeeds in delivering suspense and energy. It maintains a clear moral centre and explores the cost of violence. Overall, it is a solid and entertaining thriller. It may especially appeal to readers who already follow the Jonathan Grave series.

Thank you, NetGalley, for sharing an advanced reader copy of the book for review.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exhilarating action, an assassin hit list and a terror plot

Jonathan Grave and Gail Bonneville are enjoying a quiet afternoon at his favourite outcrop by the Rappahannock River when shots ring out. Someone is trying to kill them, but the assassin is not very skilled. But Jonathan is a lethal opponent and soon turns the tables on the would-be assassin. From the assassin, they learn of a hit list of Irene River’s (former Director of the FBI) other off-book operators. What follows is an action-packed search for the operators on the list. Who created the list? And how does it tie into a terror plot?

This is the thrilling 17th installment in the Jonathan Grave series. Security Solutions, Inc is a private security firm that specializes in hostage recovery. The team consists of Jonathan (the owner) and operatives Mother Hen, Big Guy and Gunslinger. Gilstrap has done an excellent job of developing these characters into good guys that I am invested in. I love that humorous incidents are sprinkled throughout the novel, lightening the heavy action. Although the team often employs lethal force, it is always towards truly awful opponents. Jonathan Grave has a strong code that keeps everyone (mostly Big Guy) restrained. This time, Jonathan does something early in the novel that prompts him to question himself.

The action is like an accelerating train headed to a certain crash, with the team striving to put the brakes on the unknown terrorist plot. If you enjoy strong characters, exhilarating tension and complex plot lines, you will love Scorched Earth. Fans of Mitch Rapp, Pike Logan and Scot Harvath series will relish Jonathan Grave.

Thanks to Kensington Publishing for access to a digital ARC on NetGalley.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

The story begins with Jonathan and Gail sitting where they could enjoy the sun setting. Soon they were shot out and began to get out of range of the sniper. They managed to avoid the shooter and were able to corner him when he returned to the vehicle. After capturing him, they brought him to their base to question him. Along with Jonathan and Gail, there were two others that joined in during the questioning, Boxer and Venice. During the questioning, they discovered that he was carrying a list with their names as well as others. As they investigated farther they became that this was a list of individuals that were either dead already or were to be killed. They discovered on the list two names that they were familiar with and who were still alive. They then made a decision to advise them of the danger. They were able to save one, but one was killed.

Venice eventually developed by reviewing the phone records and searching the list for something that connected them, pinpointed who was the most likely person that wanted them dead. As their hunt continued, they discovered that there was some sort of event planned on a certain date. Their quest now involved finding out what the event was and who was behind it. As the date arrived, they headed to the location to try and stop it from happening.

To learn wh was behind this, what events was planned and how it was to be executed as well as find out how everything worked out in the end, then you need to read this book, you won't be sorry!

[Jodi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced epsionage and counter epsionage novel. This is my first by this author and it was a quick read. Irene Rivers burned her FBI career taking down disgraced U.S. President Darmond and many of his collaborators. But that doesn’t mean everyone was found. Some of his collaborators are attempting to kill off-the-record contractors that Rivers used when she didn’t know who to trust within the FBI. Jonathan Grave and his Security Solutions team manage to survive when a killer comes after them, but the ultimate attack is something that will be hard hitting. Can the team discover who or what will be attacked and stop it? Most of the novel takes place in Wellington County, North Carolina. Grave loves his country. He’s great at making connections, planning, and adjusting as situations change. As a bold and intense protagonist, he runs a detective agency that has a clandestine sideline to it. He stands up for justice, but is willing to cross the line to ethical ambiguity to get it. Not everyone will connect with him, but he’s very good at bringing justice to victims of evil. There are many layers throughout the book and what I think the way a potential terrorist is built. Thank you to NetGalley, goodreads and Highbridge Audio for the ALC of Scorched Earth by John Gilstrap.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Scorched Earth” is a great stand-alone novel for those of us that have never read any of the Jonathan Grave series. In reading a few reviews after listening to this audiobook, there is some backstory that would help, but not necessary. I never felt lost at all listening. For long time fans, don’t worry. The author makes any necessary backstory part of the narrative, so you won’t get bored.

“Scorched Earth” starts fast and never really lets up on the pace. Nonstop action. Nonstop violence. Nonstop jokes among Jonathan’s team. As matter of fact, the humor added so much to this book. You need that moment to take a breath with laughter after holding your breath because of the intensity of the scenes.

The audiobook was really good. Basil Sands (what an amazing name for an actor in the 1930s and 40s) narrates the audiobook and does a good job. His voice has such a dignified quality to it that to me it added to the humor of the craziness of the action scenes.

This was an amazing introduction to this series for me. I’ve already started checking on books at the library to catch up.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of this author and this series since I read the first book and I loved this book as much as I have any other book in the series. I will admit that I was wondering if the series would continue after the character Irene Rivers leaves the series but I see that my fears may have been unwarranted.

In this action packed read, Jonathan and his team find themselves looking into the deaths of some other independent contractors of the former FBI director Irene Rivers and unfortunately they too are also a target of the group that is trying to kill the group. While trying to find answers they group find themselves trying to stop a terrorist attack on a group of innocent kids. Can they stop the bad guys before it is too late?

As I said, this is an action packed read that had me hooked from the start. I liked that Jonathan looked at the cost of his actions and the effects that they have giving him some more depth as a character. I also continue to enjoy the banter from Big Guy as well. The plot of the book had me hooked waiting to see what would happen next.

Overall, this is a great addition to the series and I recommend this book and series to others.

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love finding new (to me, at least) thriller series that have quirky characters, action-filled storylines, a strong moral compass, and a willingness to do what it takes to get the job done, especially when it means keeping people safe. Even though this was the first book I've read in this series, I felt that I was able to get a good feel for the main characters, their relationships to each other and their personalities.

From the beginning of the story the stakes were high as someone took a shot at Jonathan and Gail as they were relaxing by the river. Thanks to his training, he noticed something amiss and reacted quickly. The action does not let up as the team searches for answers and eventually learns that there is a list of persons targeted for assassination.

The pace is fast with plenty of action, suspense, humor, and a surprising reason behind the target list. I look forward to not only seeing where the series goes next but also going back to read the previous books.

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

After an attempt on his life Jonathan Graves interrogates the assassin to find out why he did it. His investigation eventually finds a vengeful US senator and a Middle Eastern terrorist have teamed up to bring terror to a regional scouting event with hundreds of boys present, Jonathan must do his best to figure it all out and stop it. On the way, former FBI contractors are being murdered, and it seems that no one in a position of authority will believe that a sitting senator could be involved in such a plan. With little or no proof, Jonathan and the gang can get no help from the government and must stop this evil themselves without being blamed for it themselves or worse, being killed during it. A seat of your pants, fast read in the genre of Reacher. Thanks to Netgalley and Pinnacle Books for this advanced copy.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Jonathan Grave adventure, it did not disappoint. Lots of action and adventure while showcasing interesting technology. Can’t wait to check out more!

Disgraced U.S. President Darmond has been ousted from office, but his minions have taken aim at everyone they perceive to be enemies. Off-the-record contractors on a secret list are being eliminated, one by one.

Jonathan Grave and his Security Solutions team manage to turn the tables when the assassins come for them. But the ultimate attack will strike deep at the heart of what’s best about American values.

High-tech weapons, terror-driven fanatics, and top-level betrayal shred the peace of a peaceful gathering in the rolling hills of rural North Carolina. In this showdown, the winner will take all.

[Scott Lovelace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a banger! This was my first read in this series, it can easily be read as a standalone, there are plenty of nuggets to give you the backstory. The action is brutally fast and the banter and chemistry among the team is great. As a fan of the new Irene Rivers series (Burned Bridges), I was excited to learn her role in this series. When the threat of another terror attack is planned, a group of operatives will do whatever it takes to foil the plan. This was extremely fast paced and fun to read.

Basil Sands was excellent.

Thank you Highbridge Audio / Kensington Books for the complimentary review copy.

[Julie Friar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Someone is targeting people who secretly worked for the Government and killing them one by one. Jonathan Grave and his team work together when one of their own is targeted. They discover the plan behind these killings. Hundreds of lives are in danger but they cannot prove it for authorities to get involved. It will be up to them to lead the showdown and hopefully save the day.

Very well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Excellent characters in a fast paced, action packed novel. Terror is coming but can it be stopped?

[Perrin Larton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Jonathan Grave series written by John Gilstrap, and Scorched Earth had me on the edge of my seat more than once! The books are spot on discussing terrorist possibilities and how things work or don't work at the highest level of government.

A rogue Senator, ex-military thugs, and all around bad guys are out of control and intent on a horrifying mission.. Jonathan and his band are involved when they become targets. They decide to figure out why they were targeted and it's not good.

Scorched Earth is book #17 in this series. A thrilling read!

[Texas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scorched Earth - I never heard of this series or the author, unbelievable but true. This is number seventeen of a series, my first, and I did not miss any of the previous books. The writing is precise, no extra fluff. The story lines are intriguing and immersing, and the characters are interesting. Action, humor, infrequent cussin', and a good way to spend time. I have a trip planned to my public libraries to catch up with this author's work; after my ARC mountain is cleared away. Source: Netgalley and kensingtonbooks.com. 5*

[Raegan]

*I received this book for free through NetGalley & Goodreads giveaways in exchange for an honest review*

I have seen Gilstrap’s books around, but I am not into this writing-style. I think it’s dry. Nothing about this is engaging for me. I don’t like the narrator for this. He’s like a dry newcaster. The preview doesn’t match the vibes I thought I was gonna get. All-in-all, the book isn’t for me.

Language that doesn’t work for me:

“Let’s cut off the kid’s balls.”

[Dawn Rumfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

i absolutely love this book. the chapters are short but packed with a lot of action/suspense/thriller. with the perfect blend of suspense and a lot of thriller aspects, this book will have you at the edge of your seat. i refrained myself from trying to read ahead as it kept stopping on cliff hangers at the end of the chapters. i will definitely reread it. cant wait for more keep up the great work.

[Nick Babbitz · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Gilstrap has done it again. His Jonathan Grave books are always fun, easy reads that never cease to entertain. Scorpion’s team as he is known are a great cast of characters and this book was exactly what I have come to expect, action, suspense and a little humor along the way.
I always enjoy Gilstrap’s books and will continue to look forward to reading his next book.