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Phantom Force #1
Deadline
He’s a relentless homicide detective. She’s an uncompromising journalist.
Neither desires to work together—but they’ll never uncover the truth alone.
Landing a front page headline isn’t why reporter Caitlin Sparks is investigating a string of suspicious deaths connected to the U.S. State Department. She has a personal stake in finding the killer.
Detective Blake Madison has a connection to the murders too, and will risk anything to uncover the truth. But a journalist is the last person he’d rely on to help him solve a crime—especially one whose trail of evidence leads back to him.
Joining forces becomes essential as the body count continues to grow. Someone powerful doesn't want the truth to come out—and will stop at nothing to make sure no one talks.
On the run with nowhere to turn, the couple devises a plan to expose the killer. The risk is great and the chance of success small, but the ultimate outcome is something neither one of them envisioned.
Neither desires to work together—but they’ll never uncover the truth alone.
Landing a front page headline isn’t why reporter Caitlin Sparks is investigating a string of suspicious deaths connected to the U.S. State Department. She has a personal stake in finding the killer.
Detective Blake Madison has a connection to the murders too, and will risk anything to uncover the truth. But a journalist is the last person he’d rely on to help him solve a crime—especially one whose trail of evidence leads back to him.
Joining forces becomes essential as the body count continues to grow. Someone powerful doesn't want the truth to come out—and will stop at nothing to make sure no one talks.
On the run with nowhere to turn, the couple devises a plan to expose the killer. The risk is great and the chance of success small, but the ultimate outcome is something neither one of them envisioned.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2016
338 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
Jessica James
28 books669 followersJessica James is an award-winning author of suspense, historical fiction, Christian fiction, and military fiction ranging from the Revolutionary War to modern day.
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 20, 2016
If you're looking for a book that will keep you guessing about who is the person calling all the shots, or a government conspiracy book. This is it.
Caitlin who is a reporter lost her fiance. It was ruled a suicide but she new better. She knew he stumbled upon something at the state department that he shouldn't have. While trying to get to the bottom of things she runs into obstacles. One is Detective Madison.
Blake Madison a police detective some how gets sucked into Caitlin's conspiracy theory. At first he seemed like a hard ass. However when things start to get uncovered he is a softy, only looking out for Caitlin's wellbeing.
I was glued to the book. I was really trying to figure out who was calling all the shots at the state department. They did whatever they could to throw Caitlin from the truth. Once Blake and Caitlin figured it out, it got ugly. The ending was great however........I can't wait for book 2 to come out.
Caitlin who is a reporter lost her fiance. It was ruled a suicide but she new better. She knew he stumbled upon something at the state department that he shouldn't have. While trying to get to the bottom of things she runs into obstacles. One is Detective Madison.
Blake Madison a police detective some how gets sucked into Caitlin's conspiracy theory. At first he seemed like a hard ass. However when things start to get uncovered he is a softy, only looking out for Caitlin's wellbeing.
I was glued to the book. I was really trying to figure out who was calling all the shots at the state department. They did whatever they could to throw Caitlin from the truth. Once Blake and Caitlin figured it out, it got ugly. The ending was great however........I can't wait for book 2 to come out.
October 9, 2018
This was on sale at one of the sites I subscribe to and it intrigued me and I purchased it. WOW! I was blown away. After a little slow start, it picked up with a vengeance. I, literally, could not put the book down. The murder/mystery was great. Twists and turns abound. Intense. Excellent writing. I totally enjoyed it and have just purchased the second book in the series. Looking forward to it. ;)
March 5, 2016
Read as part of #30DayReadingIndie Challenge
Closer to 3.5 stars
Even though Deadline is billed as a romantic suspense novel, it really veers more toward straight suspense for which I am thankful. I initially worried the romance would take front seat and hinder or diminish the mystery, but instead, the angst comes from the not knowing and the scariness/uneasiness of a "who's behind this?"
I really like both main characters, Caitlyn and Blake. Caitlyn's portrayed as one of the few honest, hardworking journalist out there, whose drive for knowledge and truth lands her in hot water within the political arena. Blake, a seasoned detective and veteran, has obvious hesitations toward journalists, but soon comes to realize that Caitlyn wants not to exploit him or his cases, only to provide the truth. Together, they embark on a fact finding mission to uncover a political conspiracy that has them both running for their lives.
Deadline is not constant action, near death misses, and never a moment's rest; however, I don't feel this hurts it. It is a slow build that holds your interests as Caitlyn and Blake swift through information and deliberate (and have a few close calls). They work well together, and while they occasionally butt heads (especially in the beginning), they form a cohesive relationship that starts as a joint desire for justice, but ends up being more.
The whole time I read this, I kept thinking these two characters could result in a good series, so I was happy when I got to the end and saw they have another book coming out this year.
As a side note: the backstory, or subplot, feels reminiscent of recent historical events (think the real life turned book turned movie, 13 hours).
Closer to 3.5 stars
Even though Deadline is billed as a romantic suspense novel, it really veers more toward straight suspense for which I am thankful. I initially worried the romance would take front seat and hinder or diminish the mystery, but instead, the angst comes from the not knowing and the scariness/uneasiness of a "who's behind this?"
I really like both main characters, Caitlyn and Blake. Caitlyn's portrayed as one of the few honest, hardworking journalist out there, whose drive for knowledge and truth lands her in hot water within the political arena. Blake, a seasoned detective and veteran, has obvious hesitations toward journalists, but soon comes to realize that Caitlyn wants not to exploit him or his cases, only to provide the truth. Together, they embark on a fact finding mission to uncover a political conspiracy that has them both running for their lives.
Deadline is not constant action, near death misses, and never a moment's rest; however, I don't feel this hurts it. It is a slow build that holds your interests as Caitlyn and Blake swift through information and deliberate (and have a few close calls). They work well together, and while they occasionally butt heads (especially in the beginning), they form a cohesive relationship that starts as a joint desire for justice, but ends up being more.
The whole time I read this, I kept thinking these two characters could result in a good series, so I was happy when I got to the end and saw they have another book coming out this year.
As a side note: the backstory, or subplot, feels reminiscent of recent historical events (think the real life turned book turned movie, 13 hours).
March 10, 2016
**I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for ah honest review**
I have read Meant To Be by the author and thought perhaps this book would be the same genre but this is a thriller with a homicide detective, a reporter and a murder to solve. The beginning started a bit slow but the story picked up and before you know it you've read the entire book.
Caitlin Sparks is a new reporter looking for her first big story and when she sneaks onto a murder investigation being conducted by Blake Madison, he allows her three questions. When they have to join together to help solve the mystery and murder. The author throws in a person of interest that doesn't want anything to come out and if they has to commit murder again that wouldn't be a problem.
The story line was good and the main characters were likable but I found that there ending left you with a cliffhanger and no final wrap up. All in all Deadline was a good read and I look forward to the next book.
I have read Meant To Be by the author and thought perhaps this book would be the same genre but this is a thriller with a homicide detective, a reporter and a murder to solve. The beginning started a bit slow but the story picked up and before you know it you've read the entire book.
Caitlin Sparks is a new reporter looking for her first big story and when she sneaks onto a murder investigation being conducted by Blake Madison, he allows her three questions. When they have to join together to help solve the mystery and murder. The author throws in a person of interest that doesn't want anything to come out and if they has to commit murder again that wouldn't be a problem.
The story line was good and the main characters were likable but I found that there ending left you with a cliffhanger and no final wrap up. All in all Deadline was a good read and I look forward to the next book.
December 7, 2017
I mostly enjoyed this book. The main story was good.
The plot was a little heavy and plodding in some areas. One thing that definitely needed work though was the throw away references to some characters. The author would introduce a seemingly important person in the story but then we didn't learn anything more about them - they died without any further mention or they were a betrayer to the main characters, etc. That is very frustrating. Also, when an author introduces the paranormal into a story, make it tie in with the rest of the story - the paranormal should never be a one-off event in the plot. It makes no sense.
For all the criticisms I have of this book, I will be reading the next in this series. I have to find out if the author clears up some of the hanging plot points or not. Here's hoping!!
The plot was a little heavy and plodding in some areas. One thing that definitely needed work though was the throw away references to some characters. The author would introduce a seemingly important person in the story but then we didn't learn anything more about them - they died without any further mention or they were a betrayer to the main characters, etc. That is very frustrating. Also, when an author introduces the paranormal into a story, make it tie in with the rest of the story - the paranormal should never be a one-off event in the plot. It makes no sense.
For all the criticisms I have of this book, I will be reading the next in this series. I have to find out if the author clears up some of the hanging plot points or not. Here's hoping!!
November 15, 2018
It was tough, to be a reporter, or a detective, when you dealt, and wanted the true facts. She happened by a double homicide, those at the news office wonder how she was so lucky. She is not a team player, she does honest, fact based reporting. Has a large number in the community that respect her for this. Then comes a warning for her and the detective, to stay out of this investigation, leave it to the F B I . When they join together, to find the evidence, and save their lives. Intriguing, fact based story, I enjoyed. The characters were dedicated, and that came thru for what they were doing. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
March 28, 2016
ARC provided by Netgalley.
This book was a good and entertaining read but it was a little difficult for me to get interested in the actual story. The main characters were well written and dynamic, however, the story is a very slow build up and almost like a straight up suspense novel rather than an action suspense or romantic suspense (which this is labeled as on Netgalley). So while I would have preferred more action and maybe a little more romance, still glad I read the book.
This book was a good and entertaining read but it was a little difficult for me to get interested in the actual story. The main characters were well written and dynamic, however, the story is a very slow build up and almost like a straight up suspense novel rather than an action suspense or romantic suspense (which this is labeled as on Netgalley). So while I would have preferred more action and maybe a little more romance, still glad I read the book.
February 27, 2016
I gave this book a 3 because while it seemed to read well for me there was something lacking. The suspense was there but It just seemed to drag on a bit.
I really cant put my finger on why I didnt like it more. I loved the premise as it sure sounds like something that has/could happen in our country.
Try it you may really like it.
I really cant put my finger on why I didnt like it more. I loved the premise as it sure sounds like something that has/could happen in our country.
Try it you may really like it.
March 8, 2016
The mystery isn't that difficult to solve and it isn't surprising that the reporter and the detective will find love - after surviving dangerous moments and publishing the scandal.
It was quite entertaining.
No graphic descriptions of violence or the romance.
Thanks to Netgalley for this free copy.
It was quite entertaining.
No graphic descriptions of violence or the romance.
Thanks to Netgalley for this free copy.
August 27, 2021
Intriguing plot line keeps you guessing
I read this book aloud on a cross country road trip. It was well-written and definitely kept us interested for a few days along hundreds of miles of interstate highways. At some parts of the story, it was hard to set aside!
The first chapter introduces the principle characters: veteran newspaper reporter Caitlin Sparks and the unflappable former naval-officer-turned-police-detective, Blake Madison. Although the reasons aren’t clear until well into the story, both of these characters have a personal stake in the case that brings them together. And their determination to uncover the truth about this and related cases almost costs them their lives.
The author presents most of the story from Cait’s point of view, but occasionally interjects thoughts from Blake’s perspective. The action is also pretty much linear. This keeps the novel fairly easy to follow. The back story is unfolded naturally as you go. Although I did guess a lot of what happened, the ending included some unexpected elements.
The more intense the action got, the more Cait and Blake learned to trust and rely on each other. I especially appreciated that they both exercised restraint when they started to develop romantic feelings for one another. The only reason I didn’t give this novel a five star rating was because of the profanity sprinkled throughout the book.
I read this book aloud on a cross country road trip. It was well-written and definitely kept us interested for a few days along hundreds of miles of interstate highways. At some parts of the story, it was hard to set aside!
The first chapter introduces the principle characters: veteran newspaper reporter Caitlin Sparks and the unflappable former naval-officer-turned-police-detective, Blake Madison. Although the reasons aren’t clear until well into the story, both of these characters have a personal stake in the case that brings them together. And their determination to uncover the truth about this and related cases almost costs them their lives.
The author presents most of the story from Cait’s point of view, but occasionally interjects thoughts from Blake’s perspective. The action is also pretty much linear. This keeps the novel fairly easy to follow. The back story is unfolded naturally as you go. Although I did guess a lot of what happened, the ending included some unexpected elements.
The more intense the action got, the more Cait and Blake learned to trust and rely on each other. I especially appreciated that they both exercised restraint when they started to develop romantic feelings for one another. The only reason I didn’t give this novel a five star rating was because of the profanity sprinkled throughout the book.
July 28, 2021
Stupendous Action and Suspense
This book took off right from the beginning with agents being killed by murder or suicide and possible corruption in the State Department and the FBI.
News reporter Caitlin Sparks and Detective Blake “Mad Dog” Madison are a powerful duo who seek to find the answers to who is responsible. Their quest leads them down roads that put them in danger and on the run for their lives.
Once I started reading this book, I just couldn’t put it down. There was so much going on that I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. Caitlin and Blake make a great pair when they put their heads together.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and hope to see more books with these two great characters. Thank you for a great plot and dynamic characters.
I highly recommend this book to those who love lots of action and suspense.
This book took off right from the beginning with agents being killed by murder or suicide and possible corruption in the State Department and the FBI.
News reporter Caitlin Sparks and Detective Blake “Mad Dog” Madison are a powerful duo who seek to find the answers to who is responsible. Their quest leads them down roads that put them in danger and on the run for their lives.
Once I started reading this book, I just couldn’t put it down. There was so much going on that I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. Caitlin and Blake make a great pair when they put their heads together.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and hope to see more books with these two great characters. Thank you for a great plot and dynamic characters.
I highly recommend this book to those who love lots of action and suspense.
February 10, 2019
Deadline is the perfect name for this Book!
Deadline is the perfect name for this book, media of all forms deal with deadlines and a thriller with dead in the first word sucks you in. Then the wonder of who, the thrill of the events the bravery and the suspense keep you turning the page. The media of today seems to focus on the sell and to keep you wanting more and they are depicted very accurately through the story. You’ll really love the characters in this story, the strong healthy values and honesty of Blake and the get at the truth for justice attitude of Caitlin is truly refreshing. I also loved all the details of the locations, you could see it, be there in your mind. Awesome book! I’m ordering number 2!
Deadline is the perfect name for this book, media of all forms deal with deadlines and a thriller with dead in the first word sucks you in. Then the wonder of who, the thrill of the events the bravery and the suspense keep you turning the page. The media of today seems to focus on the sell and to keep you wanting more and they are depicted very accurately through the story. You’ll really love the characters in this story, the strong healthy values and honesty of Blake and the get at the truth for justice attitude of Caitlin is truly refreshing. I also loved all the details of the locations, you could see it, be there in your mind. Awesome book! I’m ordering number 2!
February 11, 2019
This novel is an exceptional Thriller. I was kept reading without any downtime at all. It really moves with a lot of energy. I love that about this kind of story. The characters are exciting, especially Detective Madison. He is a fascinating man and easy to enjoy his personality.
The storyline is evocative of today's issues in Washington D. C. and the author has put some spot-on insight into attitudes, and the workings of today's politics.
I discovered the next volume in this series, Fineline was already in my library so I could go right into it without pause. I am eager to continue the story.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a good Thriller.
The storyline is evocative of today's issues in Washington D. C. and the author has put some spot-on insight into attitudes, and the workings of today's politics.
I discovered the next volume in this series, Fineline was already in my library so I could go right into it without pause. I am eager to continue the story.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a good Thriller.
December 22, 2018
wow. I'm pleasantly surprised. I didn't know what to expect, especially as the beginning was a bit slow, and I felt impatient with the repetitive descriptions of Detective Madison's gaze. BUT then the story unravels and you get drawn deeper and deeper into the filthy , treacherous swamp of political powerplay and there is auch a strong pull int the storyline that you don't even miss the lack of intimate activity between the male and female MCs! Then there is a movie-worthy showdown in a senator's office....Just Wow!
January 18, 2019
Not exactly what I thought it was going to be, but still good. The group is just hinted at at the very end so the aren't even a part of this book, as such. I assume they'll be in the next one since it was established at the end of this one. Also, I would have made this book #2 in the series, as there is enough background for another book and that would lead to less head scratching moments and putting the pieces together. Minor complains though. It was still really good and I will definitely continue on with the series.
October 21, 2018
Finding justice
I actually picked this book because it had something to do with newspaper reporting. Learning how Blake and Caitlyn are able solve a haunting memory for both of them we find out how far people we go to find justice. A very engaging novel with believable characters and a moving storyline.
I actually picked this book because it had something to do with newspaper reporting. Learning how Blake and Caitlyn are able solve a haunting memory for both of them we find out how far people we go to find justice. A very engaging novel with believable characters and a moving storyline.
May 23, 2022
She creates characters that are totally believable, with interaction’s that seem totally feasible. Her stories come totally to life. This one is probably too close to reality with what happens in Washington DC. It is a very interesting read, involving a reporter(Caitlian), a detective (Madison), plus his ex wife (Mallory), and a Senator. Worthy 5
September 3, 2022
Caitlin Sparks is a reporter investigating some deaths connected to the U.S. State Department. Detective Blake Madison who isn’t too keen on journalists but realizes that Caitlin is determined to find the truth. Together Caitlin and Blake join forces to uncover a political conspiracy that will keep both of them on their toes. I really enjoyed this political thriller novel.
September 4, 2017
A Romance Novel
Not at all what I expected. The characters are too perfect and the villain is too simple. Almost stopped reading this book and finally finished by scanning the remaining third.
Not at all what I expected. The characters are too perfect and the villain is too simple. Almost stopped reading this book and finally finished by scanning the remaining third.
January 21, 2019
A first timer....
Never have encountered a novel that came with a study guide at the end of the book, asking what the reader thought of the story. Amy (GBR) provides a good narrative.
Never have encountered a novel that came with a study guide at the end of the book, asking what the reader thought of the story. Amy (GBR) provides a good narrative.
June 27, 2020
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review. It was a really good book - started a little slow but then I got caught up and couldn't put it down. A couple of times, I was afraid it was going to go over-the-top romance novel but it never really did.
March 15, 2021
Conspiracy at it's worst
Reporter and policeman see signs of official cover-ups in deaths. As they follow the trails their lives are threatened and they run for their very lives. So real you become part of their fight for truth and their very lives. Incredibly well written.
Reporter and policeman see signs of official cover-ups in deaths. As they follow the trails their lives are threatened and they run for their very lives. So real you become part of their fight for truth and their very lives. Incredibly well written.
April 17, 2021
A Detective who doesn't like journalists and a small town writer who usually only reports on loyal meetings like the PTA or town council but has a personal interest in what is going on and has been warned to especially not trust the police. Such a riveting story I really couldn't put it down..
January 20, 2022
Wonderful Read
What can I say; I love Jessica James Books!!!! A Truly Fantastic Story Writer with only one the Best Characters!!
Can't wait to start the 2nd one of this stand alone trilogy !!
What can I say; I love Jessica James Books!!!! A Truly Fantastic Story Writer with only one the Best Characters!!
Can't wait to start the 2nd one of this stand alone trilogy !!
May 19, 2017
Really good book that is well written and very entertaining. I couldn't put it down.
September 20, 2017
We are proud to announce that DEADLINE by Jessica James is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
January 27, 2019
Riveting plot, intriguing characters - couldn’t put it down. Thriller with a side of romance...what else ya ask for?!? Highly recommended for conspiracy addicts and mystery lovers.
February 3, 2019
Great book. Great story line and loved the characters. Looking forward to the next book.
March 15, 2019
A real page turner
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Excellent character and story development. I would definitely recommend this book. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Excellent character and story development. I would definitely recommend this book. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
September 23, 2019
Great read
This book grabbed your attention immediately and kept you interested. Did not to put it down once I started reading it.
This book grabbed your attention immediately and kept you interested. Did not to put it down once I started reading it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews