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Eve Rossi #1
Hostage Taker
From Edgar Award winner Stefanie Pintoff comes the start of an electrifying new thriller series featuring Eve Rossi, head of a secret division of the FBI - one made up of ex-convicts with extraordinary talents, oversized egos, and contempt for the rules. Perfect for readers of Iris Johansen and Catherine Coulter.
In the hushed quiet of early morning Manhattan, in front of the towering brass doors of Saint Patrick's Cathedral, a young woman holds a sign that reads: HELP ME. For one FBI agent, a madman's terrified hostages, and an entire city, a long and harrowing day is about to unfold.
The hostage taker's identity is unknown. But he knows who FBI agent Eve Rossi is - and everything about her past. Along with her presence, he demands five witnesses: ordinary people with some hidden connection. Defying her superiors, Eve begins a deadly dance with an adversary whose intentions are surely sinister, whose endgame is anything but certain, and whose cunning keeps him one step ahead at every turn.
As Eve manages a taut hostage situation, she relies on the combined skills of her team - a secret unit inspired by France's most notorious criminal and made up of ex-convicts with extraordinary talents, oversized egos, and contempt for the rules.
Eve is up against a rapidly ticking clock. But the dangerous man calling the shots has a timetable of his own - and a searing question for his targets: What are you guilty of? As shocking revelations surface, so does another crisis nobody could anticipate - one not even Eve and her team may be able to stop.
In the hushed quiet of early morning Manhattan, in front of the towering brass doors of Saint Patrick's Cathedral, a young woman holds a sign that reads: HELP ME. For one FBI agent, a madman's terrified hostages, and an entire city, a long and harrowing day is about to unfold.
The hostage taker's identity is unknown. But he knows who FBI agent Eve Rossi is - and everything about her past. Along with her presence, he demands five witnesses: ordinary people with some hidden connection. Defying her superiors, Eve begins a deadly dance with an adversary whose intentions are surely sinister, whose endgame is anything but certain, and whose cunning keeps him one step ahead at every turn.
As Eve manages a taut hostage situation, she relies on the combined skills of her team - a secret unit inspired by France's most notorious criminal and made up of ex-convicts with extraordinary talents, oversized egos, and contempt for the rules.
Eve is up against a rapidly ticking clock. But the dangerous man calling the shots has a timetable of his own - and a searing question for his targets: What are you guilty of? As shocking revelations surface, so does another crisis nobody could anticipate - one not even Eve and her team may be able to stop.
422 pages, Hardcover
First published August 18, 2015
111 people are currently reading
1784 people want to read
About the author
Stefanie Pintoff
8 books241 followersStefanie Pintoff is the Edgar® award-winning author of HOSTAGE TAKER and the Simon Ziele historical mysteries. Her writing has also won the Washington Irving Book Prize and earned nominations for the Anthony, Macavity, and Agatha awards. Pintoff's novels have been published around the world, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Croatia, and Japan. She lives on Manhattan's Upper West Side, where she is at work on the next Eve Rossi thriller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
March 7, 2016
This was a shot of adrenaline. Nothing like a little action thriller to launch the new year.
It's New York City, nearing Christmas at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Someone has locked its doors before the 7am mass and has taken hostages. First demand is that Special Agent Eve Rossi, be the negotiator. With her own life in the midst of unravelling, so unfolds the negotiations to release the hostages.
A special unit,Vidocq, is set up. It’s a group consisting of ex-criminals-each with their own area of 'expertise‘ to bring the hostage taker down. Except the hostage taker has his own agenda -to act as God. He wants witnesses and confessions and he will be the judge of what is sinful and what is not. Personal justice? Vigilantism? Or a pawn in a psychological labyrinth?
A compelling read with a wicked twist jacks this up to 4+ read. Way to Go, Pintoff. I can’t wait for the sequel.
It's New York City, nearing Christmas at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Someone has locked its doors before the 7am mass and has taken hostages. First demand is that Special Agent Eve Rossi, be the negotiator. With her own life in the midst of unravelling, so unfolds the negotiations to release the hostages.
A special unit,Vidocq, is set up. It’s a group consisting of ex-criminals-each with their own area of 'expertise‘ to bring the hostage taker down. Except the hostage taker has his own agenda -to act as God. He wants witnesses and confessions and he will be the judge of what is sinful and what is not. Personal justice? Vigilantism? Or a pawn in a psychological labyrinth?
A compelling read with a wicked twist jacks this up to 4+ read. Way to Go, Pintoff. I can’t wait for the sequel.
August 27, 2015
Pintoff's last three novels (which I have read) have been historical mysteries, and I enjoyed them all. Was a little apprehensive and maybe a little disappointed when I read that this one was set in current times, but since I love this author's writing, I though why not give it a try? So very glad I did. This was fast paced, a super charged thriller, tense, suspenseful and thankfully for this reader, the start of a new series.
The Vidocq Unit, headed by Eve Rossi, a hostage negotiator, comes together in response to a crisis situation in St. Patrick's Cathedral. The Cathedral is the true star of this novel, loved reading about the ins and outs of the cathedral, the secret passages, have never been but hope to one day. This is a story where the truth must be uncovered, not only to save the cathedral, which is heavily wired with explosives, but also to save the unknown quantity of the hostages inside. So one by one information is uncovered, pieced together in an attempt to form a picture. What does the Hostage Taker want. What are his motives and first of all who is he?
This lady can write and write well. Fell for this unit of misfits, and look forward to their next case.
ARC from publisher.
The Vidocq Unit, headed by Eve Rossi, a hostage negotiator, comes together in response to a crisis situation in St. Patrick's Cathedral. The Cathedral is the true star of this novel, loved reading about the ins and outs of the cathedral, the secret passages, have never been but hope to one day. This is a story where the truth must be uncovered, not only to save the cathedral, which is heavily wired with explosives, but also to save the unknown quantity of the hostages inside. So one by one information is uncovered, pieced together in an attempt to form a picture. What does the Hostage Taker want. What are his motives and first of all who is he?
This lady can write and write well. Fell for this unit of misfits, and look forward to their next case.
ARC from publisher.
September 26, 2021
Exciting thriller that had a pretty darn good twist that I did not see coming! I loved the cast of characters entrusted to release the hostages. I just ordered the 2nd installment because I’m not quite ready to leave them just yet 🙂.
August 16, 2015
After requesting and being approved for Hostage Taker by Netgalley, I had "buyer's remorse" -- reading the description again, I thought the last thing I need is another mediocre book to read when there are so many good books I want to get to. But this was a surprisingly good read -- a light but tight and well crafted suspenseful book. The title does a good job of describing what this book is about. An unspecified number of people are taken hostage at Saint-Andrews Cathedral in New York by an unknown hostage taker. FBI's Eve Rossi -- an expert negotiator -- is called in to negotiate and her task is to figure out what is going on, who the hostage taker is and what's motivating the hostage taking. Rossi brings in a small group of experts to help -- all people she has worked in the past who are somewhat unconventional because their expertise comes from their own criminal pasts. Eve and her team make for a good group of characters -- smart and idiosyncratic. The hostage taking and hostage taker's motivation make for a good fast paced story. There's an excellent unexpected twist at the end. And to say anything more would really be to give too much away. My only criticism is that we're only given a glimpse into Rossi and her team's pasts, and it would have been nice to know more. But as I understand that this is meant to be the first in a series, I expect there may be more background to come. Regardless, I'm glad I read Hostage Taker -- it was good vacation book and I will definitely look for the next in the series. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an advance copy.
September 19, 2015
Good book, great characters that I look forward to reading about again, intense storyline and an ending that I did not see coming. But, I took off a star due to the length of the book. 430+pages that were just too long. I realize the author is setting up a series and is introducing all the characters as well as solving a complex crime but for me, a few things could have been shortened and maybe told in subsequent novels.
September 21, 2015
Hostage Taker is the latest book by Stefanie Pintoff and the first in a new series featuring Eve Rossi, Profiler and Hostage Negotiator for the FBI and her VIDOCQ team. From the very start, this book had my complete and total attention. The suspense of holding a historic landmark, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, during the holiday season and the balance of an unknown number of hostages for unknown reasons makes me want to continue on and find the answers. I thought I knew who and what was going on, but I was so wrong!
Eve is requested by the hostage taker for unknown reasons and must work against a ticking clock to find out why. Eve and her team of ex-criminals, the VIDOCQ team, must work to find out what the hostage taker's timetable is and why the hostages and witness must all confess to ‘What are you guilty of?’
This book was an interesting read in every way. The characters were three dimensional and I wanted to know even more about them and can’t wait to continue to follow them in future stories. The ticking clock kept the suspense and anxiety level high to solve the hostage taker’s motive as soon as possible. The ending had me rereading certain passages throughout the book because it threw my preconceived conclusions out the window! This book is a great suspenseful read and I can’t wait for more in this series!
Thank you so much to Random House Publishing Group – Bantam, Dell and Net Galley for allowing me to read a free uncorrected proof of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was truly my pleasure and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Eve is requested by the hostage taker for unknown reasons and must work against a ticking clock to find out why. Eve and her team of ex-criminals, the VIDOCQ team, must work to find out what the hostage taker's timetable is and why the hostages and witness must all confess to ‘What are you guilty of?’
This book was an interesting read in every way. The characters were three dimensional and I wanted to know even more about them and can’t wait to continue to follow them in future stories. The ticking clock kept the suspense and anxiety level high to solve the hostage taker’s motive as soon as possible. The ending had me rereading certain passages throughout the book because it threw my preconceived conclusions out the window! This book is a great suspenseful read and I can’t wait for more in this series!
Thank you so much to Random House Publishing Group – Bantam, Dell and Net Galley for allowing me to read a free uncorrected proof of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was truly my pleasure and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
May 20, 2016
4.5 stars
luckily I don't feel obliged to summarize the plot(which I suck at doing in my reviews) because the synopsis is almost in the title.
this is a taut thriller and Pintoff is great at pacing and characterization.
also when the reader seems to breathe a sigh of relief at a successful conclusion the author throws another twist just to put you back to the edge of your seat. I am impressed at how much showing and little telling there is in this novel, yet the writing style doesn't interfere with the reader getting to know the antagonists and protagonists.
bravo!
luckily I don't feel obliged to summarize the plot(which I suck at doing in my reviews) because the synopsis is almost in the title.
this is a taut thriller and Pintoff is great at pacing and characterization.
also when the reader seems to breathe a sigh of relief at a successful conclusion the author throws another twist just to put you back to the edge of your seat. I am impressed at how much showing and little telling there is in this novel, yet the writing style doesn't interfere with the reader getting to know the antagonists and protagonists.
bravo!
October 1, 2015
Thanks to netgalley.com, Stefanie Pintoff, and Random House/Ballantine for the advance ATC for my review.
If you saw a crime occurring, say a mugging?
Would freeze, be unable to respond to the situation.
Would you come to the aid of the victim.
Call 911, immediately before you do anything else.
Do nothing, just continue to watch.
Record it, while doing nothing and later post it on social media.
Well strap yourself in, get comfortable and learn just what one troubled person did after witnessing a mugging. Were they we're injured coming to the aid of the victim, even ask for help and all while five others did nothing to help.
Pinetoff puts the reader right there, into the action, you'll feel like you're part of the multi-law enforcement team at a hostage situation and into the mindset of a troubled individual. That's fed up with people not stopping to help victims of crimes, stopping it or reporting it.
'Sometimes it takes a thief to catch a thief', that's what Monsieur Henry, head of the French Prefecture, said about his unusual working arrangement with thief Eugene Francois Vidocq.
I'm hopelessly addicted to the Investigative Discovery channel, watch all the various Police shows. It's always amazed me how much crime happens by chance or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
That's what happens to 9 hostages, including one person that's forced to be a bad guy, while trying to save his kidnapped daughters life and it all goes down at New York's historic St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Being a fan of the Police Procedural genre, made me want to read 'Hostage Taker' and it doesn't disappoint. While it's a lengthy read, it's fast paced and done in away to make it seem shorter by its chapter count.
You have multiple storylines intertwined together, they work and they keep the reading interesting.
Agent Eve Rossi, a FBI negotiator is a real likeable character, easily relatable to and makes the storylines work. She does have some personal issues but she's tough, gutsy, genuine and really cares for the victims.
The book makes reference to Videoq. Which was a practice first used by France in 1805, when thief Eugene Francois Vidocq approached Monsieur Henry who was the head of the French Prefecture and formed a relationship that used his crime knowledge to help catch other criminals.
I liked how Pinetoff used this, liked Mace, Eli, Haddox and Garcia a group of four criminals. Each has a special talent, came from different backgrounds, don't always get along and will do anything for their boss Agent Rossi.
Pinetoff does an excellent job with this part of the story, makes it believable and realistic in how it happens. She masterfully uses trickery, were the real bad person is hidden in plain sight and a fall guy who's merely a puppet.
Not to give it away, the puppet's a Police Officer, who joined the Marine Reserves after 9/11. He's down on his luck, recently divorced, under investigation and the perfect fall guy to be set up.
I definitely do recommend reading 'Hostage Taker'. Will be adding Stefanie Pintoff to my favorite author list, eagerly awaiting the next Agent Eve Rossi book and check out her Detective Simon Ziele series.
If you saw a crime occurring, say a mugging?
Would freeze, be unable to respond to the situation.
Would you come to the aid of the victim.
Call 911, immediately before you do anything else.
Do nothing, just continue to watch.
Record it, while doing nothing and later post it on social media.
Well strap yourself in, get comfortable and learn just what one troubled person did after witnessing a mugging. Were they we're injured coming to the aid of the victim, even ask for help and all while five others did nothing to help.
Pinetoff puts the reader right there, into the action, you'll feel like you're part of the multi-law enforcement team at a hostage situation and into the mindset of a troubled individual. That's fed up with people not stopping to help victims of crimes, stopping it or reporting it.
'Sometimes it takes a thief to catch a thief', that's what Monsieur Henry, head of the French Prefecture, said about his unusual working arrangement with thief Eugene Francois Vidocq.
I'm hopelessly addicted to the Investigative Discovery channel, watch all the various Police shows. It's always amazed me how much crime happens by chance or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
That's what happens to 9 hostages, including one person that's forced to be a bad guy, while trying to save his kidnapped daughters life and it all goes down at New York's historic St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Being a fan of the Police Procedural genre, made me want to read 'Hostage Taker' and it doesn't disappoint. While it's a lengthy read, it's fast paced and done in away to make it seem shorter by its chapter count.
You have multiple storylines intertwined together, they work and they keep the reading interesting.
Agent Eve Rossi, a FBI negotiator is a real likeable character, easily relatable to and makes the storylines work. She does have some personal issues but she's tough, gutsy, genuine and really cares for the victims.
The book makes reference to Videoq. Which was a practice first used by France in 1805, when thief Eugene Francois Vidocq approached Monsieur Henry who was the head of the French Prefecture and formed a relationship that used his crime knowledge to help catch other criminals.
I liked how Pinetoff used this, liked Mace, Eli, Haddox and Garcia a group of four criminals. Each has a special talent, came from different backgrounds, don't always get along and will do anything for their boss Agent Rossi.
Pinetoff does an excellent job with this part of the story, makes it believable and realistic in how it happens. She masterfully uses trickery, were the real bad person is hidden in plain sight and a fall guy who's merely a puppet.
Not to give it away, the puppet's a Police Officer, who joined the Marine Reserves after 9/11. He's down on his luck, recently divorced, under investigation and the perfect fall guy to be set up.
I definitely do recommend reading 'Hostage Taker'. Will be adding Stefanie Pintoff to my favorite author list, eagerly awaiting the next Agent Eve Rossi book and check out her Detective Simon Ziele series.
August 18, 2015
A special thank you to Random House/Ballantine and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The HOSTAGE TAKER by Stefanie Pintoff, a new riveting urban contemporary series, featuring Eve Rossi negotiator FBI agent for an intense suspense roller-coaster crime thriller ride.
What starts as a shooting outside of Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan revolves into a dangerous and complex hostage situation. At stake are not only the lives of the hostages but the fate of the most iconic church in the country.
Eve Rossi, is head of a secret division of the FBI. Most of the eclectic team is a mix of highly intelligent professionals, criminals, and ex-convicts, a secret squad known as the VIDOCQ Unit.
On the day of the Christmas Rockefeller Center tree lighting, in New York, a man barricades himself and an unknown number of hostages inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral. He requests Eve Rossi, who’s on bereavement leave following her stepfather’s death, a former a former CIA operative.
Eve is called back to work; however, the mysterious hostage situation is complex and so many elements are on the line. He wants five individuals brought to the scene to act as "witnesses" to the events. As the terror and intensity heats up, as the clock ticks, getting close to the deadline-- things do not go as planned.
I enjoyed the news breaks by the hour, with new correspondents, and the visual classified VIDOCQ files listing the individual's expertise, age, and criminal record, (along with their strengths and weaknesses), etc. --adding to the drama. The Author's Note was a nice addition with, master-of disguise, Eugene Francois Vidocq.
A fast-paced, suspense, with a strong and compelling protagonist heroine, pulling you into the terrifying drama unfolding with a deadly standoff; dark secrets, and special talents from the team.
My first book by Pintoff, spinning a twisted well-developed crime thriller page-turner– Hope to see more of Eve Rossi!
Fans of Lisa Gardner and Tami Hoag will enjoy this new thriller, HOSTAGE TAKER.
JDCMustReadBooks
The HOSTAGE TAKER by Stefanie Pintoff, a new riveting urban contemporary series, featuring Eve Rossi negotiator FBI agent for an intense suspense roller-coaster crime thriller ride.
What starts as a shooting outside of Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan revolves into a dangerous and complex hostage situation. At stake are not only the lives of the hostages but the fate of the most iconic church in the country.
Eve Rossi, is head of a secret division of the FBI. Most of the eclectic team is a mix of highly intelligent professionals, criminals, and ex-convicts, a secret squad known as the VIDOCQ Unit.
On the day of the Christmas Rockefeller Center tree lighting, in New York, a man barricades himself and an unknown number of hostages inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral. He requests Eve Rossi, who’s on bereavement leave following her stepfather’s death, a former a former CIA operative.
Eve is called back to work; however, the mysterious hostage situation is complex and so many elements are on the line. He wants five individuals brought to the scene to act as "witnesses" to the events. As the terror and intensity heats up, as the clock ticks, getting close to the deadline-- things do not go as planned.
I enjoyed the news breaks by the hour, with new correspondents, and the visual classified VIDOCQ files listing the individual's expertise, age, and criminal record, (along with their strengths and weaknesses), etc. --adding to the drama. The Author's Note was a nice addition with, master-of disguise, Eugene Francois Vidocq.
A fast-paced, suspense, with a strong and compelling protagonist heroine, pulling you into the terrifying drama unfolding with a deadly standoff; dark secrets, and special talents from the team.
My first book by Pintoff, spinning a twisted well-developed crime thriller page-turner– Hope to see more of Eve Rossi!
Fans of Lisa Gardner and Tami Hoag will enjoy this new thriller, HOSTAGE TAKER.
JDCMustReadBooks
June 18, 2021
This book got my attention immediately when a terrified woman was holding a sign reading "help me" on the steps of Saint Patrick's Cathedral on the day of the Christmas tree lighting in Rockefeller Center. It's the start of an exciting and suspenseful thriller featuring Eve Rossi, whose participation is specifically demanded by the hostage taker. This book is the first in a projected series about Special Agent Rossi, an FBI profiler and hostage negotiator who has been on bereavement leave following the death of her stepfather, a CIA agent. Rossi was formerly in charge of the Vidocq Unit, composed of reformed criminals with special talents, which they now use to enforce the laws they used to break.
While I liked this book a lot, it could have been shorter. I thought it was unoriginal, contrived and unnecessary to resort to the tired plot of "getting the old gang of outlaws back together for one more caper". I didn't really need to know the back stories of the team members and I'm pretty sure that the FBI already employed people with the necessary skill sets, which weren't that remarkable. Also unnecessary were the news bulletins about the hostage situation. These bulletins were interspersed among the chapters which actually carried the story forward, and unfortunately dissipated the tension. The whole CIA agent thing was also irrelevant to this story, but maybe the author is setting something up for the next book. Basically, I thought there was a lot of filler that should have been trimmed.
Nevertheless, I thought the book was well written and cleverly plotted, with a good twist at the end, although there was a lot of reliance on coincidences and I felt that the hostage taker's motivation was pretty shaky. The New York City details were spot on. I definitely want to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
While I liked this book a lot, it could have been shorter. I thought it was unoriginal, contrived and unnecessary to resort to the tired plot of "getting the old gang of outlaws back together for one more caper". I didn't really need to know the back stories of the team members and I'm pretty sure that the FBI already employed people with the necessary skill sets, which weren't that remarkable. Also unnecessary were the news bulletins about the hostage situation. These bulletins were interspersed among the chapters which actually carried the story forward, and unfortunately dissipated the tension. The whole CIA agent thing was also irrelevant to this story, but maybe the author is setting something up for the next book. Basically, I thought there was a lot of filler that should have been trimmed.
Nevertheless, I thought the book was well written and cleverly plotted, with a good twist at the end, although there was a lot of reliance on coincidences and I felt that the hostage taker's motivation was pretty shaky. The New York City details were spot on. I definitely want to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
January 23, 2016
I received an ARC copy from Goodreads for an honest opinion. My thanks to Stefanie Pintoff and Goodreads.
Hostage Taker by Stefanie Pintoff starts off with a bang and grabs your interest from the get-go. If there is ever to be the possibility of such a hostage situation, you know it would be in New York City. One wouldn't necessarily think that it would take place at St. Patrick's Cathedral, but it certainly works here. A little architectural history by the author rounds out the setting and evokes a visualization of the complexity of this hostage fortress.
Chapter after chapter, I found myself lining up favorite actors to play the lead roles.....truly a movie in the making. One concern, however, was the amount of characters that were introduced. A backstory was given for each in between phone calls by the Hostage Taker. In real time, I don't believe that the Hostage Taker would have waited so long between phone calls to Eve so that the plot had adequate time to flow. I'm sure if this would be made into a movie, they would hold those strings in a more taut manner. Each member of the team possessed a certain talent necessary to pull this off, although necessary, still kept the reader sifting through their quirks and their actions.
I've read other books by Stefanie Pintoff and found them to be satisfying and engaging. Ms. Pintoff can really draw you in with her stellar writing ability. She knows that a sip of intrigue and excitement from the onset keeps the reader coming back to quench that thirst for more. I'm looking forward to future offerings with the Pintoff name emblazed on the cover.
Hostage Taker by Stefanie Pintoff starts off with a bang and grabs your interest from the get-go. If there is ever to be the possibility of such a hostage situation, you know it would be in New York City. One wouldn't necessarily think that it would take place at St. Patrick's Cathedral, but it certainly works here. A little architectural history by the author rounds out the setting and evokes a visualization of the complexity of this hostage fortress.
Chapter after chapter, I found myself lining up favorite actors to play the lead roles.....truly a movie in the making. One concern, however, was the amount of characters that were introduced. A backstory was given for each in between phone calls by the Hostage Taker. In real time, I don't believe that the Hostage Taker would have waited so long between phone calls to Eve so that the plot had adequate time to flow. I'm sure if this would be made into a movie, they would hold those strings in a more taut manner. Each member of the team possessed a certain talent necessary to pull this off, although necessary, still kept the reader sifting through their quirks and their actions.
I've read other books by Stefanie Pintoff and found them to be satisfying and engaging. Ms. Pintoff can really draw you in with her stellar writing ability. She knows that a sip of intrigue and excitement from the onset keeps the reader coming back to quench that thirst for more. I'm looking forward to future offerings with the Pintoff name emblazed on the cover.
August 18, 2015
I was literally holding onto my seat while riding the rails on this journey! I'm finally able to breathe now that I've finished the book. Someone takes over St. Patrick's Cathedral holding hostages and why? The reason was totally jacked up, but apparently the hostage taker was as well. And, you will never guess who it is.
This book was entertaining almost from the very first page. I just sped through this one, it was that good. And the way he would do the hostages was very different and intriguing. They were looking to find one smarter person with this guy. This book kind of reminded me of the TV show "Scorpions", which I love. They are all smart in their own ways and are using their illegal passions to track down other criminals.
Thanks Random House/ Dell and Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this book. I found it very entertaining and highly recommend it!
This book was entertaining almost from the very first page. I just sped through this one, it was that good. And the way he would do the hostages was very different and intriguing. They were looking to find one smarter person with this guy. This book kind of reminded me of the TV show "Scorpions", which I love. They are all smart in their own ways and are using their illegal passions to track down other criminals.
Thanks Random House/ Dell and Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this book. I found it very entertaining and highly recommend it!
October 5, 2015
A lot of loose ends which will probably come closer together as the series evolves. That said, I would read another one, but found the ending a bit of a mess. Unpredictable, but still messy. The beginning was stronger but left many unresolved points.
Provided by netgalley
Provided by netgalley
February 13, 2016
This was a wild roller coaster ride of twists and turns from the very beginning and I sure didn't see that ending coming! Someone has taken hostages at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York and has no problem killing them if his demands aren't met. One of them is that FBI Agent Eve Rossi be the one he talks to. He's also demanding five "witnesses", as he calls them. But witnesses to what? What does The Hostage Taker want them to witness? What is their connection to the man! Exactly what is the motive behind his actions? And what of the people he's taken hostage? Were they simply in the wrong place at the wrong time or are they there for a reason too? Little by little Eve begins to uncover the answers to her questions, along with her team, a very unlikely group of people.
While the plot is complex, it's fast paced and easy to follow. I liked the characters but would have enjoyed knowing more about what made them tick and hope more will be revealed in future books. If you like a taut thriller with plenty of suspense and nail-biting tension then you might want to give this a try.
While the plot is complex, it's fast paced and easy to follow. I liked the characters but would have enjoyed knowing more about what made them tick and hope more will be revealed in future books. If you like a taut thriller with plenty of suspense and nail-biting tension then you might want to give this a try.
June 25, 2017
If you haven't read Stefani Pintoff, you must read Stefanie Pintoff. She is an amazing author with well-crafted stories and unique/memorable characters. I loved her first historical fiction mystery/detective series. I was disappointed to see her new series took place in modern times. I was hesitant, not believing that she could create an equally compelling cast of characters and story. Well she did that and more. Lightning fast pacing. A unique ensemble group of characters. And just when you think the book is over and you've got it figured out there are some great and unexpected twists and turns. A modern thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more.
December 15, 2016
This book is a solid 4.5 stars. Engaging and suspenseful throughout. The cast of characters is a likeable group of ruffians but I found their backstories just made the book more interesting. Just when you think you have it all figured out- bam! there is a new twist! I have the second in the series checked out from the library and hope to get to it soon. Definitely recommend!
November 22, 2015
A 'Hostage Taker' has taken over St Patrick's Cathedral in NYC. He has hostages and won't reveal his demands until FBI profiler, Eve Rossi is called to the scene. As Federal and local authorities gather at the scene, tempers are getting shorter. A hostage is allowed out on the steps and when a NYC negotiator approaches the hostage , she is murdered by a sniper.
No one can get a handle on the situation because the hostage taker hasn't revealed his demands. Eve assembles a strange team, 4 people who have been on the other side of the law but all possess special talents that could be of assistance to Eve. And who have helped her in the past.
Pintoff has produced a fast paced , exciting book , well suited to the crazy world we live in today. My old criticism might be that at times the pace slows down a wee bit. However, overall this is an exciting story that you will enjoy.
No one can get a handle on the situation because the hostage taker hasn't revealed his demands. Eve assembles a strange team, 4 people who have been on the other side of the law but all possess special talents that could be of assistance to Eve. And who have helped her in the past.
Pintoff has produced a fast paced , exciting book , well suited to the crazy world we live in today. My old criticism might be that at times the pace slows down a wee bit. However, overall this is an exciting story that you will enjoy.
August 25, 2015
My hopes were high with such stellar reviews, and what appeared to be a good, exciting plot line at the start. Someone has taken over St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC and is executing terrified hostages. FBI agent Eve Rossi is specifically requested as a negotiator by the hostage taker.
But I found the writing pedestrian, the characterizations and plotting unbelievable, and my eyes glazed over several times as I read to the end. I wanted to see what the twist ending I had been reading of was all about. Yes, it was a twist ending, and no I was not impressed, as it seemed muddled and contrived. I think this book is one that might be termed an airline book or a beach read. Those can be very entertaining, but this one was not for me.
But I found the writing pedestrian, the characterizations and plotting unbelievable, and my eyes glazed over several times as I read to the end. I wanted to see what the twist ending I had been reading of was all about. Yes, it was a twist ending, and no I was not impressed, as it seemed muddled and contrived. I think this book is one that might be termed an airline book or a beach read. Those can be very entertaining, but this one was not for me.
October 5, 2015
Hostage Taker by Stefanie Pintoff 5 Stars
A spellbinding ride with a misfit group of FBI agents in a hostage situation in New York City.
I was instantly gripped at the start of this tense thriller. We begin outside of St. Patricks Cathedral in Manhattan where a traumatised woman holds up a sign saying, ‘Help Me.’ What follows is a fast paced, action packed story with lots of ‘edge of your seat’ moments. Eve Rossi, FBI agent, has to manage this tense hostage situation and what a strong character she is. This book just keeps you guessing.
I loved this riveting story and was totally engrossed throughout. Highly recommended.
Elphaba
Best Selling Crime Thrillers received a copy of this book to review.
A spellbinding ride with a misfit group of FBI agents in a hostage situation in New York City.
I was instantly gripped at the start of this tense thriller. We begin outside of St. Patricks Cathedral in Manhattan where a traumatised woman holds up a sign saying, ‘Help Me.’ What follows is a fast paced, action packed story with lots of ‘edge of your seat’ moments. Eve Rossi, FBI agent, has to manage this tense hostage situation and what a strong character she is. This book just keeps you guessing.
I loved this riveting story and was totally engrossed throughout. Highly recommended.
Elphaba
Best Selling Crime Thrillers received a copy of this book to review.
July 20, 2015
(3 1/2) I was impressed enough with this book that I am going to look at Pintoff's back writings to check them out. This is a very exciting book, and having grown up in New York City gives it an even stronger connection. Eve Rossi is a real good character, but the diversity of her supporting cast and the quality of the bad guys in this one takes it a step further. It starts out a tiny bit slow but is pretty damn hard to put down after page 50 or so. I look forward to another installment here.
Read
June 24, 2015Seriously. This is SUCH a great book! I love the colorful characters, the action, the complexity. One of my favorite narrating experiences.
September 20, 2017
Chilling
This was a very good thriller. The storyline: a hostage taker holds several people inside St Patrick's Cathedral in New York just before Christmas. But the motive is unclear, even to the crack hostage negotiator, Eve Rossi, who is brought into the situation at the behest of the hostage taker.
I liked the way the author introduced all of the "good guy" characters--several of whom are not your typical good guys at all. Being fascinated by cathedrals, I felt worried not only for the hostages but also for the Cathedral itself. To find out why, you will need to read the book 😉.
This is a great thriller, will appeal to readers who love the genre.
This was a very good thriller. The storyline: a hostage taker holds several people inside St Patrick's Cathedral in New York just before Christmas. But the motive is unclear, even to the crack hostage negotiator, Eve Rossi, who is brought into the situation at the behest of the hostage taker.
I liked the way the author introduced all of the "good guy" characters--several of whom are not your typical good guys at all. Being fascinated by cathedrals, I felt worried not only for the hostages but also for the Cathedral itself. To find out why, you will need to read the book 😉.
This is a great thriller, will appeal to readers who love the genre.
August 13, 2021
Really enjoyed reading this book. The author did a great job of getting you inside the minds of different characters. And when you thought you had something figured out, you get thrown a curve ball. Definitely a fun read!
Read
August 21, 2019Excellent read! Recommended to my and I highly recommend it.
June 2, 2018
First Sentence: What are you guilty of?
It’s Christmastime in New York City, and almost time for tree in Rockefeller Center to be lit, but it’s going to be late this year. Across the street a woman is shot in front of the doors of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Rather than random violence, she has been planted there by someone who has taken over the landmark Cathedral, sealed it off, and is demanding that FBI agent Eve Rossi bring him five “witnesses” or he will kill more hostages and destroy the church.
If one is looking for a tense, exciting opening, one will find it here. Moreover, it is tension that does not let up. Both the plot itself and “News Updates” keep the pace throughout the book.
The ensemble cast of characters is an unusual mix. Led by Agent Rossi, her team of ex-convicts may not play well together individually, but they have the skills to get the job done. While it seems over-the-top, what makes it work is the fact that the team is based on Eugène François Vidocq, a man who was a criminal but went on to create the Brigade de la Sûreté (later the Sûreté Nationale) employing ex-cons as his subordinates. Eve’s team of four are more than well-suited to today’s crimes and we meet them, as well as Eve and her boss, through a team file record on each of them.
Another clever device is the inclusion of a first-person narrative by the “hostage taker” providing one with a bit of insight—“I’ve never liked bullies. I’ve also never liked standing by and ignoring a problem… that’s how I live my life, I take matters into my own hands. The fat girl was a little brat, but I took no pleasure in hurting her. It wasn’t about that. There are no good options in a bad situation. But inaction is still a form of action. Indecision is still a decision. And justice is in short supply these days.”
In some ways, St. Patrick’s becomes another character. The analysis file is fascinating even to those who have been there as it provides information of which most are unaware. The floor plan is an excellent added touch. Not only does it provide an orientation, but it helps make one feel they are part of the action. And maps are always good.
The plot is filled with coincidences and a stereotypical bureaucrat, but it also has tension that is palpable. It definitely keeps one reading.
“The Hostage Taker” is one exciting read filled with twists and red herrings.
THE HOSTAGE TAKER (Pol Proc/FBI-Eve Rossi/Vidocq Team/NYC/Contemp) – G+
Pintoff, Stephanie – 1st in series
Bantam, 2015
It’s Christmastime in New York City, and almost time for tree in Rockefeller Center to be lit, but it’s going to be late this year. Across the street a woman is shot in front of the doors of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Rather than random violence, she has been planted there by someone who has taken over the landmark Cathedral, sealed it off, and is demanding that FBI agent Eve Rossi bring him five “witnesses” or he will kill more hostages and destroy the church.
If one is looking for a tense, exciting opening, one will find it here. Moreover, it is tension that does not let up. Both the plot itself and “News Updates” keep the pace throughout the book.
The ensemble cast of characters is an unusual mix. Led by Agent Rossi, her team of ex-convicts may not play well together individually, but they have the skills to get the job done. While it seems over-the-top, what makes it work is the fact that the team is based on Eugène François Vidocq, a man who was a criminal but went on to create the Brigade de la Sûreté (later the Sûreté Nationale) employing ex-cons as his subordinates. Eve’s team of four are more than well-suited to today’s crimes and we meet them, as well as Eve and her boss, through a team file record on each of them.
Another clever device is the inclusion of a first-person narrative by the “hostage taker” providing one with a bit of insight—“I’ve never liked bullies. I’ve also never liked standing by and ignoring a problem… that’s how I live my life, I take matters into my own hands. The fat girl was a little brat, but I took no pleasure in hurting her. It wasn’t about that. There are no good options in a bad situation. But inaction is still a form of action. Indecision is still a decision. And justice is in short supply these days.”
In some ways, St. Patrick’s becomes another character. The analysis file is fascinating even to those who have been there as it provides information of which most are unaware. The floor plan is an excellent added touch. Not only does it provide an orientation, but it helps make one feel they are part of the action. And maps are always good.
The plot is filled with coincidences and a stereotypical bureaucrat, but it also has tension that is palpable. It definitely keeps one reading.
“The Hostage Taker” is one exciting read filled with twists and red herrings.
THE HOSTAGE TAKER (Pol Proc/FBI-Eve Rossi/Vidocq Team/NYC/Contemp) – G+
Pintoff, Stephanie – 1st in series
Bantam, 2015
July 29, 2015
I received this as a free pre-release from www.Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. This book takes place within the span of 18 hours or so, and you can feel the tension in that time. Eve Rossi, on bereavement leave from the FBI, is called back into the field by a hostage-taker who has booby-trapped St. Patrick's Cathedral right in the heart of New York City. She calls in her band of misfit toys, otherwise known as former cons given a chance to redeem themselves by working for, instead of against, the government.
Pros:
The story moved! I read a couple of reviews that thought the story got bogged down in police procedure and PTSD /flashback problems, but I really thought they added to the reality of the scene. We had a sense of the scene, something often lacking in stories like this. I liked the character of Eve, the stepdaughter of a murdered, retired CIA officer. I also liked Pintoff's use of dossiers to bring in a lot of information about the team in a relatively small amount of space. It effectively highlighted each character's strengths and weaknesses and personality quirks, without taking the time out of the story to "show" us all those things. I thought the twists were shocking but (mostly) not totally out of left field. Motivations developed in flashbacks helped create a sense of unease about who was who, and who was at fault.
Cons:
I agree with some other reviewers that the news breaks didn't really add much to the story. I thought that it would when the church representative spoke out, but that seemed to be just a dead end in the plot. While I did like the dossiers, I don't think they were realistically written - the style didn't seem to fit with what I expected out of a FBI employee file (too conversational maybe?). I would have rather Pintoff used the time spent in news pieces to create more backstory for Eve and her team. That's my only real beef with the story - it's such an interesting setup, but none of the backstory ever developed into anything concrete. I'll definitely read the next book, but how much more will depend on how much of the backstory is revealed.
Pros:
The story moved! I read a couple of reviews that thought the story got bogged down in police procedure and PTSD /flashback problems, but I really thought they added to the reality of the scene. We had a sense of the scene, something often lacking in stories like this. I liked the character of Eve, the stepdaughter of a murdered, retired CIA officer. I also liked Pintoff's use of dossiers to bring in a lot of information about the team in a relatively small amount of space. It effectively highlighted each character's strengths and weaknesses and personality quirks, without taking the time out of the story to "show" us all those things. I thought the twists were shocking but (mostly) not totally out of left field. Motivations developed in flashbacks helped create a sense of unease about who was who, and who was at fault.
Cons:
I agree with some other reviewers that the news breaks didn't really add much to the story. I thought that it would when the church representative spoke out, but that seemed to be just a dead end in the plot. While I did like the dossiers, I don't think they were realistically written - the style didn't seem to fit with what I expected out of a FBI employee file (too conversational maybe?). I would have rather Pintoff used the time spent in news pieces to create more backstory for Eve and her team. That's my only real beef with the story - it's such an interesting setup, but none of the backstory ever developed into anything concrete. I'll definitely read the next book, but how much more will depend on how much of the backstory is revealed.
Read
November 28, 2016It's Christmastime in Manhattan and a hostage taker has forced the cancellation of the annual tree lighting festivities at Rockefeller Center. Directly across the street, inside iconic Saint Patrick's Cathedral, 10 hostages are captives and the Cathedral is wired with military grade explosives. There is no way in or out unless the rumors of secret tunnels and rooms beneath the Cathedral are actually true. The unidentified hostage taker makes an immediate demand, contact with FBI hostage negotiator Eve Rossi. Eve reluctantly arrives at the scene and begins a dialog with the hostage taker like no other in her career. His demand? Eve is to to gather several specific "witnesses" and bring them to the scene. How do you locate random people in New York City and deliver them within a time limit? What does the hostage taker mean by "witnesses"? Eve and her team of former criminals with specialized talents race against time to rescue the hostages and prevent the destruction of the Cathedral.
This is a fast paced thriller with a clever take on a typical hostage situation. You will be fooled and have a few unanswered questions all the way to the end. Recommended for anyone looking for a novel with a clever plot, an iconic setting and a strong female protagonist.
~Denise F., PWCPLS Staff
Click the link to find the book and check availability at the Prince William County Public Library System:
http://librarycatalog.pwcgov.org/pola...
Click the link to find the Audiobook and check the availability at the Prince William County Public Library System:
http://librarycatalog.pwcgov.org/pola...
This is a fast paced thriller with a clever take on a typical hostage situation. You will be fooled and have a few unanswered questions all the way to the end. Recommended for anyone looking for a novel with a clever plot, an iconic setting and a strong female protagonist.
~Denise F., PWCPLS Staff
Click the link to find the book and check availability at the Prince William County Public Library System:
http://librarycatalog.pwcgov.org/pola...
Click the link to find the Audiobook and check the availability at the Prince William County Public Library System:
http://librarycatalog.pwcgov.org/pola...
August 25, 2015
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan– a popular destination for tourists – has been taken over, and those inside it are now hostages. When the hostage taker asks for FBI Agent Eve Rossi specifically, Eve is called in off of grievance leave and forced to play a deadly game of cat and mouse. The single bizarre demand made by the hostage taker is that 5 particular people be brought before him as witnesses or he will blow the Cathedral and its hostages; he then cuts communication. Eve calls in her old team of past criminals assisting the FBI in exchange for a clean slate. Together they must figure out the game this hostage taker is playing before it’s too late.
Author Stefanie Pintoff proves she is a master of suspense and unexpected plot twists. There is no lead up, instead the reader is plunged head first into the action from the first chapter and sent on a tense nail-biting ride until the very last page. The characters are impeccably drawn, larger than life, and often endearing – especially Corey Haddox. The plot has twists worthy of an Agatha Christie novel as well as fast-paced suspense that will leave the reader unable to put the book down into the wee hours of the morning. Added to this is a cinematic quality of writing and true-to-life dialogue. Pintoff is a master of her art and a writer to watch as she sets the bar high for her future books in the series.
A special thank you to Random House and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this story in exchange for an honest review.
Author Stefanie Pintoff proves she is a master of suspense and unexpected plot twists. There is no lead up, instead the reader is plunged head first into the action from the first chapter and sent on a tense nail-biting ride until the very last page. The characters are impeccably drawn, larger than life, and often endearing – especially Corey Haddox. The plot has twists worthy of an Agatha Christie novel as well as fast-paced suspense that will leave the reader unable to put the book down into the wee hours of the morning. Added to this is a cinematic quality of writing and true-to-life dialogue. Pintoff is a master of her art and a writer to watch as she sets the bar high for her future books in the series.
A special thank you to Random House and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this story in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2015
Hostage Taker starts off with a bang, literally. Hostages are killed from the beginning so you know when the Hostage Taker says he will kill more hostages and even blow up St. Patrick's Cathedral if his demands are not met, that he is serious. Eve Rossi is an FBI hostage negotiator who used to work with a rag tag team of criminals, but is now on extended leave. She is forced back into action and starts a cat and mouse game with the Hostage Taker that she must win. She and her team all have secrets in their past lives as does the Hostage Taker, the hostages and the witnesses that she is told to bring to talk to the hostage taker. It is her job to figure out how to read the Hostage Taker and how to keep the hostages alive and how to protect the priceless artifacts in the Cathedral. We are slowly given bits and pieces of information and we think we know the who and the why but it is soon obvious that nothing is as it seems. You won’t be able to put this one down and you will want to read more about Eve Rossi and her rag tag team.
April 16, 2016
The concept of Eve Rossi leading a group of convicted criminals, each with personality issues, to resolve high profile and difficult is not believable and seems to have been constructed solely to have a storyline with many drama interactions between characters. I realize this is the first book in the series and the author needs to introduce characters, but using the device of reading the "classified" personnel forms everytime a character entered the story was irritating and keep occurring well past half of the book. The author took an interesting tack at a hostage story with the reason the hostage taker was doing what he was doing, but it does not make sense that a novice hostage taker would have been able to execute the difficult steps the extended hostage drama required. The ending did bring up the excitement and increased the mystery which helped the satisfaction with the entire storyline. However, I don't know if I want to go through another story with this high drama set of characters.
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