Cold Shadows

by Jeff Critser

Kip Mitchelson has been plunged into the abyss. After learning of his friend's murder in Florida, the investment banker suddenly finds himself hunted like common prey, ensnared in a dark world of fathomless cruelty. Philip Kurchow, the IT manager for a transportation company in Munich and Kip's best friend, possessed a secret to be forever silenced - the details of a lucrative smuggling enterprise in Eastern Europe. Pilfered from vaults deep inside Russia, lethal virus technology is now up for sale, and the FBI is desperate to shut it down. Hidden far from prying eyes, however, the CIA is launching its own campaign to intercept the technology for clandestine research and black ops. Running out of time, the FBI recruits the only man able to uncover the smuggling: Kip Mitchelson. As he digs deeper into the treachery, Kip finds a more sinister stalker in the hunt, the sadistic operative known only as RAFTER. At the risk of his life - and that of his family - Kip races to expose the betrayers and fight their depraved assault.

Genres: Thriller

440 pages, Paperback

First published October 10, 2013

About the author

Jeff Critser is the author of the political/military thriller Cold Shadows and is a leading expert on defense intelligence and national security issues. As the son of a Marine pilot, Mr. Critser’s formative years were influenced strongly by the military way of life and the code of honor it embodied. Upon graduation from Vanderbilt University, Jeff pursued his own flying ambition as a Naval Aviator deployed to Guam with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Five (VQ-5). In addition to flight operations, Jeff served in naval intelligence roles supporting key military operations overseas.

While in the Navy, Jeff pursued his outdoor passions of scuba diving, sailing, and snow skiing – activities he thoroughly enjoys today. A writing assignment during his graduate studies sparked Jeff’s interest in novels and helped foster a deep appreciation for his favorite authors – Tom Clancy, Vince Flynn, David Patterson, and James Rollins.

In addition to his military career in aviation and naval intelligence, Jeff has been an innovator in both commercial and defense technologies with extensive international experience. COLD SHADOWS is Jeff’s first novel; his second, DARK DOWN, is scheduled to be released in the spring of 2015. He lives in Cary, North Carolina, with his wife, Sonya, and two sons, Ian and Alec.

Reviews

[Blain Dillard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Shadows, the inaugural offering from former Navy intelligence officer Jeff Critser, documents the adventures of Kip Michelson. Kip is a regular guy, but when his life is thrown into turmoil and international intrigue, he calls on his own intuitions and skills, and manages to save the day. Cold Shadows excels in the military operations scenes, bringing back memories of Tom Clancy novels read long ago. I also enjoyed the plot and drama associated with the (hopefully fictional) weapon that was instrumental in the book's plot. In fact, it was so disturbing, it was actually featured in a dream I had during the period I was reading the book. Few books I've read can stake that claim! One of the other enjoyable attributes of the book was the various international locations featured. I feel like I've been to Germany now (and am inclined to plan a trip there someday)! There were a few loose ends at the conclusion of the novel, and I suspect we will have to wait for the sequel to have those resolved.

[Aggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won the book in the GoodReads giveaway.

'Cold Shadows' is a worth-reading book!

It tells a story of a regular guy, investment banker (Kip), who gets tangled up in FBI's mission to stop the smuggling of a lethal virus from Russia into the US. The story has its twists and turns, which make you want to read more and more...

At first, I was a bit lost with all the characters. I felt there were too many of them and one chapter usually followed the stories from different characters: from Kip, FBI agents, etc.
however, after few chapters you are able to recognise them all without wondering who is it.
In addition, the book contained very impressive vocabulary. You could see the former experience of the author, Jeff Critser, in the book as he was a Naval Aviator and intelligence officer.

I liked the character of Kip and Michy the most: very likeable and easy to relate to.
In addition, 'Cold Shadows' must be the book with the most references made about the coffee! The descriptions were so real that I could smell the freshly brewed coffee when reading about it. Incredible :)

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, so fans of a good mystery thriller should check out this book. I have never heard of Jeff Critser. I still would not have, if it was not for the fact that I had a chance to review this book. This would have been sad as again I state that this is a book that fans like me who enjoy mystery thrillers will like.

This book I want to say is simple but also complex at the same time. If this makes sense? Ok, so what I mean by this is that it is simple in that there are no flashy twists but complex in the layers of intrigue, mystery, and the characters that Mr. Critser brings to this book. His former background really helps lend an upper hand to him in his knowledge of technology.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book was just fantastic! The characters are very likable and the vocabulary throughout the novel was impressive. I loved the whole plot of his book; it was very intricate and woven together nicely. This novel is very fast paced and exciting. Also, I love how the book was printed. The font was big, but not too big, so I didn't have to wear my reading glasses.
I'll definitely be watching for other books from this author! Jeff Critser

[Beth Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I loved this book! Falls in line with the great Tom Clancy. Great character development and fast paced. I found Kip to be relatable and believable. This book is definitely worth a read! Hoping to see more from Mr. Critser and soon!

[John Zantjer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!

[Valerie Ormond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeff Critser’s debut novel engages the reader from the start. Kip Mitchelson becomes entangled in a world of international intrigue, and ruthlessness through his connection to his murdered former Navy shipmate and friend. Critser weaves together several different plots and keeps the reader guessing as to what will happen next. His pacing was excellent and he creates both likable and menacing characters.
Kip, as the unlikely hero, faces challenge after challenge, not knowing which of the people in this new web are trustworthy or not. He finds he must rely on his own instincts as a newcomer to a seedy world which holds unexpected global consequences depending on his actions. Crister’s writing is superb and his story engaging. I would highly recommend this suspense thriller for those looking for an exciting read, and I look forward to his future books.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

When an old Navy buddy is murdered, Kip Mitchelson is pulled into a conspiracy take-down involving a handful of federal intelligence agencies and more than a couple bad guys intent on introducing armageddon to a lot of good people. I was a little skeptical at first when the FBI pulls Kip in to help with their investigation, but I found the plot to be well-thought out and perfectly detailed. The author draws from his own military background to color the settings with rich details that don't overwhelm someone unfamiliar with the sub-genre, so the main character's angst is palpable as he pieces together what got his friend killed, and why he's now in the killer's crosshairs. While espionage thrillers aren't my normal cup of tea, man, am I glad I picked this one up!

[Alex Geiger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Every chance I got to continue reading the book, I took it! This book is filled with suspense and intrigue and puzzles. A great mystery with very current issues and details. I had a hard time in the first section trying to keep up with who was who, who was where, who was doing what, and trying to figure out how all the who's were connected. But that might have been because I usually have a pretty distracted reading situation (i.e. at dance, at tutoring, at soccer, waiting for the timer to ding on dinner….you get the gist). But once I had it all straight, there was no putting this book down! I truly enjoyed it….all the way to the end. And now I wait eagerly for the next book from the author!

[Fiona Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Former navy intelligence officer, Jeff Critser, writes with obvious Tom Clancy undertones. His debut novel will remind you of many of the great thriller story weavers as he drives his story forward with suspenseful action, while still allowing for character development and emotional connections. This book would make a good commuter read, helping the time to fly by. Critser should consider having this made into an audio book version.

The premise of bio-terrorism is always a terrifying concept. COLD SHADOWS made me both thankful and trepidacious about our intelligence capabilities.

Critser deliberately left a few holes unplugged, that's why I'm waiting for the sequel.

[Garrard Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dangerously intriguing! On the edge of your seat international nail biter. I couldn't wait to get back to where I left off the night before. Cold Shadows pulls the reader in deeper and deeper as the plot unfolds with murder, government agencies and secret underworld nooks and crannies. Well-crafted, excellent writing with detailed research that made the story incredibly real. I highly recommend Mr. Critser for anyone who’s looking for a Jack Ryan replacement. Can't wait for his next novel. Super stuff! Jeff Critser you have a new fan.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating spy novel. Fast paced and exciting! Plus the author is an old friend and I am delighted his first foray into fiction was so good. I am looking forward to the next installment, "Dark Shadows"

[Angie Keel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready to see the movie, now!