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CXVI Trilogy #3
CXVI Desperate Measures
She’s missing – but does she want to be found?
It is now three years since Detective Superintendent Greg Woods retired, and his life has been consumed with the desperate search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes. This chaotic, and so far unsuccessful quest, has taken its toll on his physical and mental wellbeing.
However, he finally receives a knock at the door with what he considers to be his most promising lead. He teams up with a young, spirited and extremely competent hacker, who also holds a vested interest in finding Barnes and his old adversary Faulkner-Brown.
What they discover sends shockwaves around the globe and threatens international security. With Woods’ health dramatically failing he knows this is his final chance, success or failure, his last hurrah!
It is now three years since Detective Superintendent Greg Woods retired, and his life has been consumed with the desperate search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes. This chaotic, and so far unsuccessful quest, has taken its toll on his physical and mental wellbeing.
However, he finally receives a knock at the door with what he considers to be his most promising lead. He teams up with a young, spirited and extremely competent hacker, who also holds a vested interest in finding Barnes and his old adversary Faulkner-Brown.
What they discover sends shockwaves around the globe and threatens international security. With Woods’ health dramatically failing he knows this is his final chance, success or failure, his last hurrah!
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2016
11 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Angie Smith
6 books58 followersAngie Smith was born in Doncaster and educated at Huddersfield University where she graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Education and Training. After a long career in adult education, training and performance management she retired early to pursue other ventures.
She travels extensively, and was nominated for an award on her knowledge transfer partnerships work, during which she co-produced and presented a journal article at the International Social Work Conference in Durban.
In 2013 she was diagnosed with breast cancer and, following a year of extensive and gruelling treatment, her desire to write was rekindled. Her highly acclaimed CXVI Trilogy and The Spy Who Chipped The China Teacup inspired the creation of her fifth novel The Foundling – Sex lies and Swimming Naked.
She currently lives in West Yorkshire with her husband, youngest son, two dogs and horse.
She travels extensively, and was nominated for an award on her knowledge transfer partnerships work, during which she co-produced and presented a journal article at the International Social Work Conference in Durban.
In 2013 she was diagnosed with breast cancer and, following a year of extensive and gruelling treatment, her desire to write was rekindled. Her highly acclaimed CXVI Trilogy and The Spy Who Chipped The China Teacup inspired the creation of her fifth novel The Foundling – Sex lies and Swimming Naked.
She currently lives in West Yorkshire with her husband, youngest son, two dogs and horse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
March 27, 2016
Actual rating 4.5*/5
Set a couple of years after the excitement of the first two books, CXVI Desperate Measures sets Greg Woods back on the hunt for Maria Barnes but things are different now. He's lost his family and his body isn't what it used to be but he has help in the form of the tech-talented Zoe. She can hack her way into anything!
In this finale to the CXVI trilogy, Angie Smith had me mentally traveling around beautiful Yorkshire and the very exclusive Antigua. At one point I was pining for a sun drenched holiday in the Caribbean. The imagery is brilliant.
Who'd have thought a story that started with Woods and Barnes chasing round West Yorkshire solving murders would end up as an international thriller which makes you question who are the good guys all the way through the trilogy! This book has rounded off the CXVI story perfectly, every emotion was felt in the reading of this ebook.
I would highly recommend reading this trilogy back to back. Each book is a rollercoaster in itself but combining the thrill of the three books would be a thriller triple whammy!
Many thanks to THE Book Club and Angie Smith for giving me an advanced copy of CXVI Desperate Measures for my unbiased review.
Set a couple of years after the excitement of the first two books, CXVI Desperate Measures sets Greg Woods back on the hunt for Maria Barnes but things are different now. He's lost his family and his body isn't what it used to be but he has help in the form of the tech-talented Zoe. She can hack her way into anything!
In this finale to the CXVI trilogy, Angie Smith had me mentally traveling around beautiful Yorkshire and the very exclusive Antigua. At one point I was pining for a sun drenched holiday in the Caribbean. The imagery is brilliant.
Who'd have thought a story that started with Woods and Barnes chasing round West Yorkshire solving murders would end up as an international thriller which makes you question who are the good guys all the way through the trilogy! This book has rounded off the CXVI story perfectly, every emotion was felt in the reading of this ebook.
I would highly recommend reading this trilogy back to back. Each book is a rollercoaster in itself but combining the thrill of the three books would be a thriller triple whammy!
Many thanks to THE Book Club and Angie Smith for giving me an advanced copy of CXVI Desperate Measures for my unbiased review.
March 5, 2016
After reading the first two books in this trilogy I jumped at the chance to read an ARC of Desperate Measures courtesy of TBConFB and the lovely Angie Smith.
I promised myself I would take it slow and savour every moment of this final book but promises are made to be broken and I devoured this book in two sittings. I just had to find out what happens.
I've really grown to love or hate in some cases, all the characters in this trilogy and in Desperate Measures we are transported 3 years on from book two and introduced to some new characters as well. One of them being Zoe, who is young, determined and quite feisty but a great character who slotted in well to the story.
Set in a world of espionage and corruption this book is fast paced with twists and turns galore but it's an easy story to follow as Angie's writing manages to pull you in and make you feel like you're part of it. We really are taken on a bumpy rollercoaster ride with this book and I ohhh'd and ahhh'd and I will admit there was a few swear words produced while reading (thankfully the kids weren't about). My adrenaline was pumping and I will say there was nearly tears too. I absolutely loved all the books but this one is my favourite, even though I'm really sad this is the end. I'd have loved it to carry on into a longer series.
Angie Smith really is one talented lady when it comes to writing and I really, really can't wait to read more from her. This trilogy is now one of my favourites and one I will go back and read again.
Highly recommended for anyone who likes a fast paced, edge of your seat story.
5 massive stars from me (I'd really have given it six if I were allowed) .
I promised myself I would take it slow and savour every moment of this final book but promises are made to be broken and I devoured this book in two sittings. I just had to find out what happens.
I've really grown to love or hate in some cases, all the characters in this trilogy and in Desperate Measures we are transported 3 years on from book two and introduced to some new characters as well. One of them being Zoe, who is young, determined and quite feisty but a great character who slotted in well to the story.
Set in a world of espionage and corruption this book is fast paced with twists and turns galore but it's an easy story to follow as Angie's writing manages to pull you in and make you feel like you're part of it. We really are taken on a bumpy rollercoaster ride with this book and I ohhh'd and ahhh'd and I will admit there was a few swear words produced while reading (thankfully the kids weren't about). My adrenaline was pumping and I will say there was nearly tears too. I absolutely loved all the books but this one is my favourite, even though I'm really sad this is the end. I'd have loved it to carry on into a longer series.
Angie Smith really is one talented lady when it comes to writing and I really, really can't wait to read more from her. This trilogy is now one of my favourites and one I will go back and read again.
Highly recommended for anyone who likes a fast paced, edge of your seat story.
5 massive stars from me (I'd really have given it six if I were allowed) .
February 28, 2016
I considered myself extremely lucky to have received an ARC of Angie Smith’s latest offering Desperate Measures, the final instalment of the CXVI Trilogy. After reading the first two books which I loved, I was a so looking forward to reading this and I'll tell you what, I was certainly not disappointed. The first book, The Beginning of the end was brilliant. The second, Secrets Broken was even better but the third and final one, this one Desperate Measures, well what can I say apart from absolutely fantastic.
Just like the first two books the author has used her great talent to move the story along at a fast pace but not so fast where you lose track of the storyline unlike some fast paced novels. However you will need to concentrate as the story is full of twists and turns, surprises, shocks to keep you wanting to turn the pages right until the very end.It really is a very clever thought out story without a doubt.
Now moving away from the storyline and onto the settings. Antigua, a beautiful island with a splendid atmosphere indeed. Ok, I’m going to put my hand up and say I’ve never been there before but I know it is so because of the way the author has used her skill and knowledge to capture the atmosphere of this place. Again brilliantly done and as for the characters? Written to perfection .
All in all I really could go on singing the praises of this trilogy for the rest of the day as it is without a doubt one of the best stories I have read in years and all I can say now is; go and get all three books, sit in a comfy chair and prepare yourself for the ride of a lifetime. Enjoy!
Just like the first two books the author has used her great talent to move the story along at a fast pace but not so fast where you lose track of the storyline unlike some fast paced novels. However you will need to concentrate as the story is full of twists and turns, surprises, shocks to keep you wanting to turn the pages right until the very end.It really is a very clever thought out story without a doubt.
Now moving away from the storyline and onto the settings. Antigua, a beautiful island with a splendid atmosphere indeed. Ok, I’m going to put my hand up and say I’ve never been there before but I know it is so because of the way the author has used her skill and knowledge to capture the atmosphere of this place. Again brilliantly done and as for the characters? Written to perfection .
All in all I really could go on singing the praises of this trilogy for the rest of the day as it is without a doubt one of the best stories I have read in years and all I can say now is; go and get all three books, sit in a comfy chair and prepare yourself for the ride of a lifetime. Enjoy!
February 25, 2016
Having already had the pleasure of reading Angie Smith's first two novels in this triolgy and loving them, I was more than impatient in waiting for the final instalment. I really wouldn't have thought it possible to improve on brilliant but Angie Smith has moved into top gear for this one. As a reader you grow to love and hate characters in a series and I am sure that it must be the same for the author. This novel feels like it has been written from the heart and soul of her.
The locations are vastly different, part set around the Wakefield and Dewsbury areas in West Yorkshire and part set around the Islands of Antigua. I loved the contrast between the two especially with Angie Smith's attention to the smallest details. The fast pace of the story is set in the first chapter and you know you simply have to buckle up for the day because you won't want to go anywhere but where Angie Smith takes you. Old characters are all present plus a few new ones to spice it all up. You are in for one heck of a ride!
Absolutely loved the whole series but this one is very special. Superb. I really hope she is planning a new book or series soon. I wish to thank TBC on fb for sending me an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The locations are vastly different, part set around the Wakefield and Dewsbury areas in West Yorkshire and part set around the Islands of Antigua. I loved the contrast between the two especially with Angie Smith's attention to the smallest details. The fast pace of the story is set in the first chapter and you know you simply have to buckle up for the day because you won't want to go anywhere but where Angie Smith takes you. Old characters are all present plus a few new ones to spice it all up. You are in for one heck of a ride!
Absolutely loved the whole series but this one is very special. Superb. I really hope she is planning a new book or series soon. I wish to thank TBC on fb for sending me an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2016
it is with mixed feelings that I write this review. I am very pleased and honoured to have read this book as an arc and the book was amazing. I am sad though because this wonderful trilogy is over.
I liked this book a lot because of the amount of work and time you see thr characters and how they progress. the characters are great but you really see a lot more about them in these books.
wonderfuk job ok n this emotionally packed book. sad it's over but hope you will see the characters again in other series.
I liked this book a lot because of the amount of work and time you see thr characters and how they progress. the characters are great but you really see a lot more about them in these books.
wonderfuk job ok n this emotionally packed book. sad it's over but hope you will see the characters again in other series.
February 23, 2016
5* Absolutely loved it
Well what can I say? Firstly, please can we have more? This trilogy is firmly one of my favourite all time reads. Each part could be read as a stand alone but who would do that? Who would deny themselves the thrill of the roller coaster journey?
I absolutely loved these books, the characters, the ride and have been lucky to be approved to read this complimentary ARC by the author, Angie Smith, through membership of The Book Club #TBConFB
Though the story and characters are set in a world of international espionage and corruption, they are likeable and believable, even the bad guys. I feel privileged to have shared the developing story as Angie Smith has revealed it to us.
These books are complex and intelligently written and have interesting plots, cleverly intertwined with brilliant characters, locations and descriptions. At the same time they have very enjoyable and gripping storylines which mirror some current international events and thinking.
I'm not going to tell you the story in these books because I honestly think you should read and discover their brilliance for yourself. You'll thank me for that.
Well done Angie, I'm sure there's at least one more book in this particular series (I'm begging here) and hopefully new stories in your head to tell us. I for one will be keeping my eyes open for your future books
Well what can I say? Firstly, please can we have more? This trilogy is firmly one of my favourite all time reads. Each part could be read as a stand alone but who would do that? Who would deny themselves the thrill of the roller coaster journey?
I absolutely loved these books, the characters, the ride and have been lucky to be approved to read this complimentary ARC by the author, Angie Smith, through membership of The Book Club #TBConFB
Though the story and characters are set in a world of international espionage and corruption, they are likeable and believable, even the bad guys. I feel privileged to have shared the developing story as Angie Smith has revealed it to us.
These books are complex and intelligently written and have interesting plots, cleverly intertwined with brilliant characters, locations and descriptions. At the same time they have very enjoyable and gripping storylines which mirror some current international events and thinking.
I'm not going to tell you the story in these books because I honestly think you should read and discover their brilliance for yourself. You'll thank me for that.
Well done Angie, I'm sure there's at least one more book in this particular series (I'm begging here) and hopefully new stories in your head to tell us. I for one will be keeping my eyes open for your future books
March 1, 2016
I received an ARC of this book via The Book Club in return for an honest review.
Well what can I say, I have now read all three books in this trilogy and it just got better and better and what a finale! It was everything I expected and more, a few unexpected events but they all added up to a fast paced action packed thriller that will keep everyone glued to their seats. Angie Smith can't half string a few words together to make an absolutely thrilling and compelling read!
Barnes and Woods are back together battling it out with new adversaries and allies. Some likeable characters and some really dislikeable.
If you haven't read these books my question is why?
Books I highly recommend and urge anyone who loves a good thriller to read. I hope to see more books by Angie Smith in the near future.
Well what can I say, I have now read all three books in this trilogy and it just got better and better and what a finale! It was everything I expected and more, a few unexpected events but they all added up to a fast paced action packed thriller that will keep everyone glued to their seats. Angie Smith can't half string a few words together to make an absolutely thrilling and compelling read!
Barnes and Woods are back together battling it out with new adversaries and allies. Some likeable characters and some really dislikeable.
If you haven't read these books my question is why?
Books I highly recommend and urge anyone who loves a good thriller to read. I hope to see more books by Angie Smith in the near future.
March 12, 2016
I could not wait to read the final book in Angie Smith’s CXVI trilogy, so was delighted to receive an ARC of CXVI Desperate Measures from TBC on FB, in return for an honest review. Having read the first and second books in quick succession, I had already been drawn into this fast moving, intriguing, and complex crime thriller, and Desperate Measures did not disappoint! I loved how Angie Smith developed the main characters, Detective Superintendent Greg Woods, and Detective Sergeant Maria Barnes, in this intricate tale of international espionage. The whole trilogy proved to be a real roller coaster ride, with unexpected cliff hangers, and lots of twists and turns, compelling me to read on! I would highly recommend reading all three books, back to back, for full effect, and will definitely be reading more from this great writer!
February 24, 2016
I received this as an arc from the book club (tbc) in exchange for an honest review.
She's missing - but does she want to be found.
It is now three years since Detective Superintendent Greg Woods retired, and his life has been consumed with the desperate search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes.
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Absolutely amazing read.
I loved the story and the characters.
Woods and Barnes will always be my favourite characters.
lots of action.
Shame it's the final.
Would've liked to see more.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
Definitely worth more than 5 *
She's missing - but does she want to be found.
It is now three years since Detective Superintendent Greg Woods retired, and his life has been consumed with the desperate search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes.
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Absolutely amazing read.
I loved the story and the characters.
Woods and Barnes will always be my favourite characters.
lots of action.
Shame it's the final.
Would've liked to see more.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
Definitely worth more than 5 *
February 26, 2016
Angie Smith packs a punch with Desperate Measures, and it did not disappoint as the finale in the CXVI trilogy.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again - you need to be on the ball with these books. Angie Smith writes in depth when it comes to finer detail, characters and plot.
It was great having an exotic location in this book and I could really picture myself there. I could clearly imagine the island and the ocean and all the going-ons.
I'm sad the trilogy has come to an end, but it was a great ride. I highly recommend you get cracking, if you haven't already started.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again - you need to be on the ball with these books. Angie Smith writes in depth when it comes to finer detail, characters and plot.
It was great having an exotic location in this book and I could really picture myself there. I could clearly imagine the island and the ocean and all the going-ons.
I'm sad the trilogy has come to an end, but it was a great ride. I highly recommend you get cracking, if you haven't already started.
March 15, 2016
I was delighted to receive an ARC of this book via TBC on Facebook. In return for an honest review.
This is the third and final book in the CXVI trilogy. Yet again Angie Smith has nailed it with another amazing book. From the first page I knew this was gong to be a nail biting thriller, and I wasn't wrong. Brilliant characters, some we had met before and some new ones. I loved it and felt sad that this was the final book in an amazing trilogy.
This is the third and final book in the CXVI trilogy. Yet again Angie Smith has nailed it with another amazing book. From the first page I knew this was gong to be a nail biting thriller, and I wasn't wrong. Brilliant characters, some we had met before and some new ones. I loved it and felt sad that this was the final book in an amazing trilogy.
March 21, 2016
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy as a beta reader, thanks to the utterly fabulous THE Bookclub (TBConFB). I loved it, full review to follow.
March 19, 2018
The final episode of Angie Smith's excellent CXVI trilogy. Former Detective Superintendent Greg Smith has been retired for three years and is still seeking Maria Barnes, when he has an unexpected visitor who leads him onto a "hot" lead. As usual everything comes to an explosive end.
Well written and a really good plot with well engineered twists and turns. I really did find this difficult to put down and recommend the trilogy to all crime fans.
Well written and a really good plot with well engineered twists and turns. I really did find this difficult to put down and recommend the trilogy to all crime fans.
February 29, 2016
CXVI Desperate Measures by Angie Smith
Have you ever wondered how a writer manages to keep all the information in their own books logical and believable? How do they manage to remember every small detail?
Writer Angie Smith says in an interview the best way to do it is with Excel spreadsheets detailing individual character’s storylines, with who said what to whom and when.
She says she rereads constantly and checks detail after detail to ensure the timeline is as perfect as possible.
It's this kind of attention to detail that I thoroughly enjoy about Angie Smith's writing.
In Desperate Measures, the third book of the trilogy, it is now three years since detective Greg Woods retired.
He was so obsessed with the search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes, that his physical and mental wellbeing suffered.
Then a hacker, Zoe Reid, brings new hope and his quest continues.
Angie Smith takes the readers on a journey of discovery that will captivate you and surprise you. As this is the last of the trilogy, you can't help but feel sad that you won't read more about the characters again, but satisfied that it all comes to a well-thought out and well-crafted end.
I can recommend this without a doubt.
February 26, 2016
CXVI Desperate Measures
CXVI Desperate Measures, the third in the trilogy and wowsers, what a finale!! I have been patiently waiting for this book and am honoured to have been able to read an advance copy. Angie, I never doubted that this book would be amazing but honestly, I think I held my breath through most of the book of it, it was so great!
This book just tops the trilogy off perfectly. We have the return of familiar characters, as well as a few new ones. I had to remind myself to breathe several times while reading as I never knew who to trust; just when I thought I'd worked it out, I found I was wrong!!! The book evokes genuine emotions and as you travel on this roller coaster, you'll love, you'll hate, you'll be happy and sad. I will really miss the main characters and would love it if the trilogy were turned into a longer series as there's definite scope there (hint hint!!) 5* read, one heck of a ride, thank you!
Many thanks to Angie Smith and TBC for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
CXVI Desperate Measures, the third in the trilogy and wowsers, what a finale!! I have been patiently waiting for this book and am honoured to have been able to read an advance copy. Angie, I never doubted that this book would be amazing but honestly, I think I held my breath through most of the book of it, it was so great!
This book just tops the trilogy off perfectly. We have the return of familiar characters, as well as a few new ones. I had to remind myself to breathe several times while reading as I never knew who to trust; just when I thought I'd worked it out, I found I was wrong!!! The book evokes genuine emotions and as you travel on this roller coaster, you'll love, you'll hate, you'll be happy and sad. I will really miss the main characters and would love it if the trilogy were turned into a longer series as there's definite scope there (hint hint!!) 5* read, one heck of a ride, thank you!
Many thanks to Angie Smith and TBC for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2016
This is the third book in the CXVI trilogy and is as complex and fast-moving as Angie Smith's readers have come to expect. Greg Woods has retired and is suffering from a serious illness. He is helped by Zoe, a young journalist, to find his old working partner Maria Barnes. These two had a deep relationship and we see more of it here. Zoe is in contact with two computing experts who've been captured by terrorists and forced to do some heavy duty hacking. There's lots of action, some people get their comeuppance and the story is explosive in every sense.
This is a satisfying ending to a story which followed double-dealing in high places and many a time I guessed wrongly as to whose side some of the characters were on. It's gripping, thrilling, and - the best thing I can say about a book - I cared about what happened to the characters. Excellent stuff.
This is a satisfying ending to a story which followed double-dealing in high places and many a time I guessed wrongly as to whose side some of the characters were on. It's gripping, thrilling, and - the best thing I can say about a book - I cared about what happened to the characters. Excellent stuff.
February 23, 2016
In was gifted an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third book in Angie Smith's CXVI series and it certainly packed a punch! It was fast paced and full of old and familiar characters.
I have a couple of small criticisms; mainly that there were a few leaps of faith by a couple of the characters that didn't seem to ring true, given the 'atmosphere' at that point in the book. There were two 'shocks' that didn't FEEL shocking and there was also a change in the relationship between two characters that didn't feel right at all.
Having said all of that - I absolutely loved all the spy parts of the book, and I think that it was a fitting end to the trilogy. I would definitely recommend this book as one to read.
This is the third book in Angie Smith's CXVI series and it certainly packed a punch! It was fast paced and full of old and familiar characters.
I have a couple of small criticisms; mainly that there were a few leaps of faith by a couple of the characters that didn't seem to ring true, given the 'atmosphere' at that point in the book. There were two 'shocks' that didn't FEEL shocking and there was also a change in the relationship between two characters that didn't feel right at all.
Having said all of that - I absolutely loved all the spy parts of the book, and I think that it was a fitting end to the trilogy. I would definitely recommend this book as one to read.
March 19, 2016
Be warned this is the final book of a trilogy You need to have read the first two to be able to make sense of the assembled cast of characters. It is three years on and the whereabouts of Maria and Faulkner Brown remain unknown. But Woods, now retired and with his health deteriorating, is still searching. Into his life walks a young woman Zoe Field who claims she can help.There is a lot of emphasis on cyber conspiracy and misdirection in this book as well as fast paced action in Wakefield and the West Indies.There is such a lot of intrigue it is impossible to describe fully but the reader is kept on tenterhooks right up to the last page.I loved this trilogy and believe it would make a great film or TV series. My thanks to the Author and TBC for the advance copy in exchange for a review.
March 20, 2016
I became a fan of Angie Smith after reading the first two books in CXVI series and was eagerly anticipating the third instalment. Well, it did not disappoint!
I enjoyed discovering how the character of Maria Barnes has developed and there's also a fascinating new character of Zoe Field. I was happy to see some of the old favourites again - Woods, Faulkner-Brown and Kozlov. As always, the author surprised me with several clever twists in the plot. There's plenty of action, secrets and even some romance in this story. The only downside is that this is the last book in the trilogy.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed discovering how the character of Maria Barnes has developed and there's also a fascinating new character of Zoe Field. I was happy to see some of the old favourites again - Woods, Faulkner-Brown and Kozlov. As always, the author surprised me with several clever twists in the plot. There's plenty of action, secrets and even some romance in this story. The only downside is that this is the last book in the trilogy.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2016
If you have read the first two you are no doubt itching to read this one and you won't be disappointed. Angie Smith has a habit of leaving her stories on cliff hangers but as the final one in the trilogy she does wrap things up much better, although I could certainly see the possibility of at least one more book.
Great characters returning as well as a few new ones. There was lots of crossing and double crossing and possibly even triple crossing going on in this story and a feeling of not being sure who to trust.
I am grateful to the author via THE book club for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
Great characters returning as well as a few new ones. There was lots of crossing and double crossing and possibly even triple crossing going on in this story and a feeling of not being sure who to trust.
I am grateful to the author via THE book club for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2016
I have loved the first two in the CXVI series and couldn't wait to read this one, it didn't disappoint at all, I read it in one day as couldn't put it down.
A new feisty likeable character Zoe Reid befriends Woods and they go in search of Maria, but as in previous books lots of intrigue and double crossing along the way, you never know who is on who's side!
I was very sad by the end as didn't want it to finish. I was also sad it was only a trilogy as could have read this series for ever! Will miss Woods the most but he got what he wanted in the end.
Thanks Angie for another great read
A new feisty likeable character Zoe Reid befriends Woods and they go in search of Maria, but as in previous books lots of intrigue and double crossing along the way, you never know who is on who's side!
I was very sad by the end as didn't want it to finish. I was also sad it was only a trilogy as could have read this series for ever! Will miss Woods the most but he got what he wanted in the end.
Thanks Angie for another great read
February 21, 2016
I was lucky enough to get an arc of the is through Tbc on Facebook . What an amazing end to a fantastic series . Just when you thought the series couldn't get any better it does . Once again you are on a roller coaster and not sure who to trust . What a climax to what has been a brilliant trilogy . I will miss both the good and bad characters from this series
February 25, 2016
A real rollercoaster of a journey. The author weaves the different parts of the story together, whilst adding parts from the other two books. I had looked forward to this book and was not disappointed. Now you lucky people can read all three back to back, I might go back and do that myself! A thrilling story
March 8, 2016
I received a review copy of this. I have read the first two of the series as well. It is a great read. Most of the characters from the first two books are here as well as some new ones. An international thrilling adventure with intelligent characters, a few surprises, as well as shifting loyalties. Highly recommended.
February 24, 2016
CXVI Desperate Measures – Angie Smith
WOW, WOW and WOW ..... What an amazing finale to this exceptionally brilliant trilogy.
I found all three of the CXVI books so intelligent and well written, with clever storylines that include very current events.
It was like bumping into old friends when reading about Barnes and Woods again and I loved the feisty and interesting new character Zoe Reid, who fits right in.
As in the previous two CXVI books, Desperate Measures is a fast paced rollercoaster of a ride with some very unscrupulous characters that will stop at nothing to achieve what they want, especially Beth Luthi whom I absolutely detested.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough and would give more than 5* if possible. It will be sad to say goodbye to some of these characters and I am hoping one more book will be added to these three.
Thank you so much to Angie Smith for allowing me to read this ARC.
WOW, WOW and WOW ..... What an amazing finale to this exceptionally brilliant trilogy.
I found all three of the CXVI books so intelligent and well written, with clever storylines that include very current events.
It was like bumping into old friends when reading about Barnes and Woods again and I loved the feisty and interesting new character Zoe Reid, who fits right in.
As in the previous two CXVI books, Desperate Measures is a fast paced rollercoaster of a ride with some very unscrupulous characters that will stop at nothing to achieve what they want, especially Beth Luthi whom I absolutely detested.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough and would give more than 5* if possible. It will be sad to say goodbye to some of these characters and I am hoping one more book will be added to these three.
Thank you so much to Angie Smith for allowing me to read this ARC.
March 15, 2016
This is the third part of the CXVI Trilogy - and a brilliant conclusion to the series.
Desperate Measures is set 3 years on from the second book, and Greg Woods is still spending the majority of his time searching for Maria Barnes. He meets Zoe Field who has information that can help him in his hunt for Barnes. The story moves seamlessly between West Yorkshire and Antigua as together they attempt to finally uncover the truth. A fast-paced book with plenty of twists and turns which ensure it's very difficult to put down! Highly recommended.
Thank you to Angie Smith and THE Book Club for an Arc in exchange for an honest review.
Desperate Measures is set 3 years on from the second book, and Greg Woods is still spending the majority of his time searching for Maria Barnes. He meets Zoe Field who has information that can help him in his hunt for Barnes. The story moves seamlessly between West Yorkshire and Antigua as together they attempt to finally uncover the truth. A fast-paced book with plenty of twists and turns which ensure it's very difficult to put down! Highly recommended.
Thank you to Angie Smith and THE Book Club for an Arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2016
Another great book from one of my favourite authors. Highly recommended.
April 5, 2016
I was kindly given an ARC by the author and TBC in exchange for my feelings on reading this as a "standalone" book... i had not read the first two books in this series.
I have to admit that I feel it is impossible to read this book on its own, once you have followed Greg Woods and his friends (and foes) on this most intricately woven adventure, you will not be able to NOT want to read the first two books!
I loved how the story takes us from Northern England, via London to exotic locations. The action is fast paced and plots weave together to make for a fascinating read.
You will be drawn to the characters, who come to life and pull you into the story, and become invested in their fates.
The author finishes the series as it started: with a BOOM that will stay with you for quite some time.
Angie Smith created a story of action packed espionage, romance, intrigue and plotting. You WILL want to pick up the first two books written in the series.
As a standalone you easily pick up who is who and it is an enjoyable read, there is obviously history between the characters that is a bit "mysterious" and it is a bit unclear in the early stages of the book how some of them relate to each other. However, the further you progress into the plot, the more you uncover about the characters and how they came to be involved.
If you are looking for a complex international espionage thriller, I can highly recommend you pick up a copy of this book.
I have to admit that I feel it is impossible to read this book on its own, once you have followed Greg Woods and his friends (and foes) on this most intricately woven adventure, you will not be able to NOT want to read the first two books!
I loved how the story takes us from Northern England, via London to exotic locations. The action is fast paced and plots weave together to make for a fascinating read.
You will be drawn to the characters, who come to life and pull you into the story, and become invested in their fates.
The author finishes the series as it started: with a BOOM that will stay with you for quite some time.
Angie Smith created a story of action packed espionage, romance, intrigue and plotting. You WILL want to pick up the first two books written in the series.
As a standalone you easily pick up who is who and it is an enjoyable read, there is obviously history between the characters that is a bit "mysterious" and it is a bit unclear in the early stages of the book how some of them relate to each other. However, the further you progress into the plot, the more you uncover about the characters and how they came to be involved.
If you are looking for a complex international espionage thriller, I can highly recommend you pick up a copy of this book.
March 18, 2016
Having read both of the other books in this series I was looking forward to this one. These do need to be read in order as it is a continuing story and it will help if you know what went before.
Maria Barnes is still missing and her former partner the now retired Greg Woods has all but given up locating her. He is nearing the end of his life having been diagnosed with cancer. He is depressed to say the least and his apartment-where he lives alone is a total wreck. He doesn't hear from his divorced wife or his daughters-they have no idea he is dying.
Then an energetic young woman shows up in his apartment and takes over-literally! She claims that she is looking for Falkner-Brown and Maria and Greg is the only one who can help him! Somehow she gets him moving again and convinces him he should go visit one of his old friends with her. This is a conspiracy which will be revealed when you read the book.
The ending is kind of sad but leaves the reader with a sense that maybe there will be a fourth in this series or maybe all is ending as it was meant to be.
CXVI Desperate Measures: A fast-paced international crime thriller
Maria Barnes is still missing and her former partner the now retired Greg Woods has all but given up locating her. He is nearing the end of his life having been diagnosed with cancer. He is depressed to say the least and his apartment-where he lives alone is a total wreck. He doesn't hear from his divorced wife or his daughters-they have no idea he is dying.
Then an energetic young woman shows up in his apartment and takes over-literally! She claims that she is looking for Falkner-Brown and Maria and Greg is the only one who can help him! Somehow she gets him moving again and convinces him he should go visit one of his old friends with her. This is a conspiracy which will be revealed when you read the book.
The ending is kind of sad but leaves the reader with a sense that maybe there will be a fourth in this series or maybe all is ending as it was meant to be.
CXVI Desperate Measures: A fast-paced international crime thriller
July 24, 2016
LOVED this series,
I could not wait to read the final book in Angie Smith’s CXVI trilogy
Set a couple of years after the excitement of the first two books,
A must read for all of those who love a good crime thriller this is a great book & a great trilogy with great characters, I couldn't put this book down I kept turning the pages couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next, WOW WOW & WOW & now I can't wait for more books from this Author
It is now three years since Detective Superintendent Greg Woods retired, and his life has been consumed with the desperate search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes. This chaotic, and so far unsuccessful quest, has taken its toll on his physical and mental wellbeing.
However, he finally receives a knock at the door with what he considers to be his most promising lead. He teams up with a young, spirited and extremely competent hacker, who also holds a vested interest in finding Barnes and his old adversary Faulkner-Brown.
What they discover sends shockwaves around the globe and threatens international security. With Woods’ health dramatically failing he knows this is his final chance, success or failure, his last hurrah!
I could not wait to read the final book in Angie Smith’s CXVI trilogy
Set a couple of years after the excitement of the first two books,
A must read for all of those who love a good crime thriller this is a great book & a great trilogy with great characters, I couldn't put this book down I kept turning the pages couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next, WOW WOW & WOW & now I can't wait for more books from this Author
It is now three years since Detective Superintendent Greg Woods retired, and his life has been consumed with the desperate search for his former Detective Sergeant, Maria Barnes. This chaotic, and so far unsuccessful quest, has taken its toll on his physical and mental wellbeing.
However, he finally receives a knock at the door with what he considers to be his most promising lead. He teams up with a young, spirited and extremely competent hacker, who also holds a vested interest in finding Barnes and his old adversary Faulkner-Brown.
What they discover sends shockwaves around the globe and threatens international security. With Woods’ health dramatically failing he knows this is his final chance, success or failure, his last hurrah!
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