What do you think?
Rate this book
Redemption Thriller #3
At Once
If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.
FBI Agent Alex Troutt has no intentions of falling for anything. Apparently, neither do the bad guys, as the Boston area is once again targeted by extremists. Boston Strong of just a few years ago is now Boston on Edge. And this time, the targets are men of the cloth—priests.
At least that’s how it looks at first.
As investigators struggle to make sense of the bombings, Alex is thrown for a loop when the FBI assistant director asks her to investigate one of their own—a colleague and friend who is suspected of having ties to a known terrorist. Torn between her values of friendship and the oath she gave when she accepted her FBI credentials, Alex must now lead two investigations simultaneously.
The bombings don’t stop, and panic sets in as the carnage spreads beyond the realm of the original targets.
Bloody Sunday. The IRA. The movement toward peace. Wounds of decades ago have reopened, bleeding all over Boston. As she pieces together the puzzle, Alex begins to wonder just how innocent her colleague really is. It’s almost too much for her to fathom.
Just how far will someone go to make a stand?
FBI Agent Alex Troutt has no intentions of falling for anything. Apparently, neither do the bad guys, as the Boston area is once again targeted by extremists. Boston Strong of just a few years ago is now Boston on Edge. And this time, the targets are men of the cloth—priests.
At least that’s how it looks at first.
As investigators struggle to make sense of the bombings, Alex is thrown for a loop when the FBI assistant director asks her to investigate one of their own—a colleague and friend who is suspected of having ties to a known terrorist. Torn between her values of friendship and the oath she gave when she accepted her FBI credentials, Alex must now lead two investigations simultaneously.
The bombings don’t stop, and panic sets in as the carnage spreads beyond the realm of the original targets.
Bloody Sunday. The IRA. The movement toward peace. Wounds of decades ago have reopened, bleeding all over Boston. As she pieces together the puzzle, Alex begins to wonder just how innocent her colleague really is. It’s almost too much for her to fathom.
Just how far will someone go to make a stand?
- GenresThriller
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2016
497 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
John W. Mefford
77 books402 followersAmazon #1 Bestselling Author, #2 bestselling author on Barnes and Noble, and a Readers' Favorite Gold Medal winner.
John W. Mefford has been writing his debut novel since he first entered the work force almost thirty years ago, although he never put words on paper until 2009. Once he started writing, however, he couldn't stop. Many readers ask John from where he gets his ideas. Well, he's a veteran of the corporate rat-race, a former journalist, and he's always been an astute observer of human and social behavior. On top of that, he's really good at embellishing.
A member of International Thriller Writers, John writes novels full of electrifying suspense -- the same types of books he has loved to read since before he could shave.
Learn more about John at www.JohnWMefford.com
Let's connect! Follow John on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JohnWMeffordAuthor
John W. Mefford has been writing his debut novel since he first entered the work force almost thirty years ago, although he never put words on paper until 2009. Once he started writing, however, he couldn't stop. Many readers ask John from where he gets his ideas. Well, he's a veteran of the corporate rat-race, a former journalist, and he's always been an astute observer of human and social behavior. On top of that, he's really good at embellishing.
A member of International Thriller Writers, John writes novels full of electrifying suspense -- the same types of books he has loved to read since before he could shave.
Learn more about John at www.JohnWMefford.com
Let's connect! Follow John on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JohnWMeffordAuthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 29, 2018
An Alex Trout Thriller book #3
This book is part of the Redemption Thriller series
Who doesn’t like a mystery that is full of sass and suspense, Mr. Mefford provides plenty of it with this one. Even if it is part of a series “At Once” can be read on its own, although I always prefer reading books in sequel. No worries if you pick it up at this point, the author does introduce his characters without overwhelming us with their past, so we can easily slip into the drama and not be totally lost. It has been awhile since I read book #2 and I had no trouble getting into the swing of things……
At center stage is FBI Agent Alex Troutt. In the opening pages Alex is called out to investigate murders in the Boston area: someone is detonating bombs killing priests and targeting individuals. But her job doesn’t stop there she is also asked by FBI assistant director to go undercover investigating one of their own who may have ties to known terrorist…. Alex is one of those kick-ass Agents…. No more spoilers from me…..
Snail pace may be too fast to describe how this mystery moves along but having said this I do think we are given a suspenseful story with plenty of twists and turns to derailed us. A mix of well-defined characters: some charismatic good people and some colourful evil ones play their roles with a good doze of entertainment. The setting of the old city of Boston and its very well-traveled shady neighborhoods couldn’t be better including the visit to a pawn shop that brings a spin on its own. We also have a touch a humour and some almost burlesque moments to make us smile….
This book is dialogue driven from cover to cover. In alternate chapters, the investigators as well as the perpetrators do a lot of bickering and exchanges. In the long run I got tired of this and at time I simply tuned out. One of my pet peeves here…..the unnecessary repetitive dialogue. The second pet peeves: Unrealistic action.
Most reviewers enjoyed immensely this book. It may not have been one of my favourites but this series is too good not to keep up with it.
This book is part of the Redemption Thriller series
Who doesn’t like a mystery that is full of sass and suspense, Mr. Mefford provides plenty of it with this one. Even if it is part of a series “At Once” can be read on its own, although I always prefer reading books in sequel. No worries if you pick it up at this point, the author does introduce his characters without overwhelming us with their past, so we can easily slip into the drama and not be totally lost. It has been awhile since I read book #2 and I had no trouble getting into the swing of things……
At center stage is FBI Agent Alex Troutt. In the opening pages Alex is called out to investigate murders in the Boston area: someone is detonating bombs killing priests and targeting individuals. But her job doesn’t stop there she is also asked by FBI assistant director to go undercover investigating one of their own who may have ties to known terrorist…. Alex is one of those kick-ass Agents…. No more spoilers from me…..
Snail pace may be too fast to describe how this mystery moves along but having said this I do think we are given a suspenseful story with plenty of twists and turns to derailed us. A mix of well-defined characters: some charismatic good people and some colourful evil ones play their roles with a good doze of entertainment. The setting of the old city of Boston and its very well-traveled shady neighborhoods couldn’t be better including the visit to a pawn shop that brings a spin on its own. We also have a touch a humour and some almost burlesque moments to make us smile….
This book is dialogue driven from cover to cover. In alternate chapters, the investigators as well as the perpetrators do a lot of bickering and exchanges. In the long run I got tired of this and at time I simply tuned out. One of my pet peeves here…..the unnecessary repetitive dialogue. The second pet peeves: Unrealistic action.
Most reviewers enjoyed immensely this book. It may not have been one of my favourites but this series is too good not to keep up with it.
May 15, 2016
Must read series.
John W. Mefford writes for all those thriller/mystery fans like me. Alex is now dealing with a series of church bombing in Boston. Also asked to find out what her boss Jerry is up to. Alex gaining her memory after terrible car crush, lost her cheating husband. She keeps putting herself in front of gun barrel again and again.
John W. Mefford writes for all those thriller/mystery fans like me. Alex is now dealing with a series of church bombing in Boston. Also asked to find out what her boss Jerry is up to. Alex gaining her memory after terrible car crush, lost her cheating husband. She keeps putting herself in front of gun barrel again and again.
August 18, 2018
Irishmen and terrorist plots
Alex Troutt is running way behind on getting her full memory back, her nanny refuses to go see a doctor, her son is being bullied at school and now some crazy is setting off bombs in her city. There is no time to be just a mom. John Mefford writes so eloquently there is a rush of adrenaline that comes from reading his novels. A pure joy to read. This series took off like an F14 fighter jet. I'm going to get the next book.
Alex Troutt is running way behind on getting her full memory back, her nanny refuses to go see a doctor, her son is being bullied at school and now some crazy is setting off bombs in her city. There is no time to be just a mom. John Mefford writes so eloquently there is a rush of adrenaline that comes from reading his novels. A pure joy to read. This series took off like an F14 fighter jet. I'm going to get the next book.
May 6, 2016
As always with a series, if you haven't started it from the beginning, I HIGHLY recommend that you do. It puts everything into a more clear perspective. However, if you prefer, it could be read as a standalone. That being said, this series has me hooked! I watch enough crime TV and movies that when reading these, I feel like I'm put right in the middle of the action. I'm not one to usually give up on a book (even if it's terrible, I'll read it through) and while this one starts out slow, buckle up and hold on. The action is just on the next page!
Alex is put in the position of investigating her superior (who is also a friend) into his involvement with a suspected terrorist all while she's investigating the bombing of priests. I love how strong Alex is because I'm not sure I would have the stomach to check into a friend and colleague on such a deep, personal level. The bombings are also happening with cars and a garage - copycats or connected? The victim in the post office garage escapes the bombing and when his former ties to Northern Ireland and the IRA are also ties that her boss has, Alex is starting to link everything together.
The toll of the job, while searching for answers to her husband's betrayal and death play such a huge part in who Alex develops into as a character. John does an amazing job implementing characteristics into her personality that she is believable as an amazing FBI agent as well as mother. The book forks off into multiple directions with interesting characters added. Even though it moves at a rapid pace, you'll drink it in like you breathe air! The writing is done very well (all of John's books are well-written) but this one became one of my top books of his because it made you feel the tension and suspense all the way to your bones.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
Alex is put in the position of investigating her superior (who is also a friend) into his involvement with a suspected terrorist all while she's investigating the bombing of priests. I love how strong Alex is because I'm not sure I would have the stomach to check into a friend and colleague on such a deep, personal level. The bombings are also happening with cars and a garage - copycats or connected? The victim in the post office garage escapes the bombing and when his former ties to Northern Ireland and the IRA are also ties that her boss has, Alex is starting to link everything together.
The toll of the job, while searching for answers to her husband's betrayal and death play such a huge part in who Alex develops into as a character. John does an amazing job implementing characteristics into her personality that she is believable as an amazing FBI agent as well as mother. The book forks off into multiple directions with interesting characters added. Even though it moves at a rapid pace, you'll drink it in like you breathe air! The writing is done very well (all of John's books are well-written) but this one became one of my top books of his because it made you feel the tension and suspense all the way to your bones.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
April 30, 2016
"Who the hell is in charge of this crime scene?"
This is the third in the series featuring the FBI officer, Alex Troutt, but is also a stand alone novel. Alex lost her memory in Book I as a result of an horrendous car crash and, as the series progresses, we continue to get to know and understand her better as she also refinds herself. In this book, she encounters divided loyalties between her commitment to her job and to that of her boss and friend. And her life is further complicated by the increasing ill health of the elderly home assistant upon whom she depends to maintain her family life.
The interplay between Alex and her colleagues, especially with her partner, Nick, is excellent, making them all, and Alex in particular, so much more real and, consequently, endearing. One of the most enjoyable sections of the book is an almost burlesque encounter with a couple of unpleasant characters in a pawn shop visit: the resulting fight scene was very visual and funny - it is rare that I laugh out loud when reading, but I did this time. Alex is a tough lady so when things don't always go right, she comes through as both more human and strong. And touches of humour only heighten the strength of the plot.
A well written and enjoyable book with a good story line and well crafted characters - recommended, as is the whole series
This is the third in the series featuring the FBI officer, Alex Troutt, but is also a stand alone novel. Alex lost her memory in Book I as a result of an horrendous car crash and, as the series progresses, we continue to get to know and understand her better as she also refinds herself. In this book, she encounters divided loyalties between her commitment to her job and to that of her boss and friend. And her life is further complicated by the increasing ill health of the elderly home assistant upon whom she depends to maintain her family life.
The interplay between Alex and her colleagues, especially with her partner, Nick, is excellent, making them all, and Alex in particular, so much more real and, consequently, endearing. One of the most enjoyable sections of the book is an almost burlesque encounter with a couple of unpleasant characters in a pawn shop visit: the resulting fight scene was very visual and funny - it is rare that I laugh out loud when reading, but I did this time. Alex is a tough lady so when things don't always go right, she comes through as both more human and strong. And touches of humour only heighten the strength of the plot.
A well written and enjoyable book with a good story line and well crafted characters - recommended, as is the whole series
May 11, 2016
This is the third Alex Troutt book by John W Mefford that I’ve read and I will keep going back for more about this strong but lonely woman.
As I’ve said many times, Boston is one of my favorite big cities in the US. I go for San Francisco more if I am on the west coast. The basis of this book caused me a bit of anxiety as it dealt with bombings in Boston. I was not at the Boston Marathon when the bombings happened but I am a runner and had been at the exact location a few years earlier when I was a spectator in Boston. Needless to say, the idea of bombings in Boston still takes me back to that.
Alex, as usual, is leading the charge to find who is behind the most recent bombings. This investigation puts her in some interesting situations, including a couple of possibly romantic ones.
I am enthralled with strong women in books. Mefford’s character Alex does not disappoint. She is not only an FBI investigator but also a single mother to one teen and one almost teen. She has yet to start dating since her husband was killed in a previous book but maybe that lack of companionship will come to an end in this book.
I cannot put the Alex Troutt series down. I’m awaiting to see what happens next.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
As I’ve said many times, Boston is one of my favorite big cities in the US. I go for San Francisco more if I am on the west coast. The basis of this book caused me a bit of anxiety as it dealt with bombings in Boston. I was not at the Boston Marathon when the bombings happened but I am a runner and had been at the exact location a few years earlier when I was a spectator in Boston. Needless to say, the idea of bombings in Boston still takes me back to that.
Alex, as usual, is leading the charge to find who is behind the most recent bombings. This investigation puts her in some interesting situations, including a couple of possibly romantic ones.
I am enthralled with strong women in books. Mefford’s character Alex does not disappoint. She is not only an FBI investigator but also a single mother to one teen and one almost teen. She has yet to start dating since her husband was killed in a previous book but maybe that lack of companionship will come to an end in this book.
I cannot put the Alex Troutt series down. I’m awaiting to see what happens next.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
May 10, 2016
Once again, Mefford puts out a great thriller with At Once with FBI Agent Alex Troutt. Just like his other books, they keep you on your toes with twist and turns so you want to keep on reading and don’t want to put it down. Like other books with FBI Agent Alex Trout, all his characters are well developed and all plots are realistic, true to life, and dramatic.
This book begins with Agent Troutt investigating bombs going off in her town of Boston and having to investigate on of her own. Then she is call to investigate her boss who may also be a part of a terrorist organization. This puts her in rather a difficult position when she has to investigate the bombings of priests in Boston, terrorist and her boss. This really plays on her emotions. What really struck me was the slogan used by the IRA terrorist in the story,,, “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.” Stop and think about it. It’s very thought provoking.
I was given the book for an honest and it has nothing to do with my review. I highly recommend this book and other books by John W, Mefford in the Alex Trouff Series.
This book begins with Agent Troutt investigating bombs going off in her town of Boston and having to investigate on of her own. Then she is call to investigate her boss who may also be a part of a terrorist organization. This puts her in rather a difficult position when she has to investigate the bombings of priests in Boston, terrorist and her boss. This really plays on her emotions. What really struck me was the slogan used by the IRA terrorist in the story,,, “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.” Stop and think about it. It’s very thought provoking.
I was given the book for an honest and it has nothing to do with my review. I highly recommend this book and other books by John W, Mefford in the Alex Trouff Series.
May 1, 2016
I love John Mefford and I have loved all of his series. This is book 3 in the Alex Troutt series and while I felt this one was a little slower than usual and a little more hard to follow, I still loved it and can’t wait for more!
In AT Once there seems to be a lot more going on. First off, I want to note that I don’t think I fully figured out who was at the door at the end of the last book. Just saying.
While we are on the hunt for another murderer, Alex is asked… well, demanded… to observe her superior as he is thought to have a hand in some of the going ons. Putting Alex in a difficult place of trying to work two crimes at one time all the while not letting anyone know that she was “investigating” their superior.
There were a lot of characters in this book that were involved and I did find myself having a little bit of difficulty keeping them all straight, but none the less, the entire read was shocking and surprising. I think by far my favorite part was the ending, but I can’t tell you why. It would ruin a wonderful surprise!
In AT Once there seems to be a lot more going on. First off, I want to note that I don’t think I fully figured out who was at the door at the end of the last book. Just saying.
While we are on the hunt for another murderer, Alex is asked… well, demanded… to observe her superior as he is thought to have a hand in some of the going ons. Putting Alex in a difficult place of trying to work two crimes at one time all the while not letting anyone know that she was “investigating” their superior.
There were a lot of characters in this book that were involved and I did find myself having a little bit of difficulty keeping them all straight, but none the less, the entire read was shocking and surprising. I think by far my favorite part was the ending, but I can’t tell you why. It would ruin a wonderful surprise!
May 10, 2016
First off, I enjoyed this book. Like really enjoyed it. Alex Troutt is quickly becoming one of my favorite fictional characters. I love how she's constantly having to balance her family life and her job, even though her job is continually threatening to take over.
She still has things she doesn't remember, which definitely ties in well with the previous books, and she's learning how to parent her kids in their difficult teen years.
This time around someone is placing bombs all over Boston. Can she find out who is responsible before more lives are lost? And can she do it all while doing a side undercover job investigating someone she knows?
This book can definitely be read as a standalone, but you're going to want to go back and read the rest (or save yourself the time and start with book 1!)
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
She still has things she doesn't remember, which definitely ties in well with the previous books, and she's learning how to parent her kids in their difficult teen years.
This time around someone is placing bombs all over Boston. Can she find out who is responsible before more lives are lost? And can she do it all while doing a side undercover job investigating someone she knows?
This book can definitely be read as a standalone, but you're going to want to go back and read the rest (or save yourself the time and start with book 1!)
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
May 3, 2016
WOW! I read this book in less than a day (work got in the way or I'd have taken less time)! Yeah, it is that good! I'm a character reader, I get into the characters, their story, who/what they are. The author does an amazing job of developing Alex quickly & thoroughly, using her memory loss from the first two books (also amazing) less so. The significant characters in his writing are developed similarly. This book is in all senses of the word, a thriller, building from the ground work laid in the first books and continuing with Alex's role in the FBI and tackling a serial bomber/murderer.. That’s it, no more spoilers from me though I can see more about this character in the future. Outstanding read! John Mefford has rapidly become one of my favorite authors and Alex one of my favorite characters!
April 29, 2016
Father Fahey was hearing confessions at St. Paul's Catholic Church. He figured he might have pneumonia but he had too many people to look after to slow down. The person on the other side of the confessional seemed reluctant to confess his sins. Father Fahey blessed him and he seemed to run out of there. As Father started to stand, the room exploded.
John W. Mefford has done an excellent job with the character of Alex Troutt. She is basically a mess but she somehow manages to do her job well and raise her kids with a lot of help. This series is a rollercoaster ride keeping you on the edge of your seat the entire way. It is a great series and I cannot wait for the next one. If you like a good thriller, this is the series for you!
John W. Mefford has done an excellent job with the character of Alex Troutt. She is basically a mess but she somehow manages to do her job well and raise her kids with a lot of help. This series is a rollercoaster ride keeping you on the edge of your seat the entire way. It is a great series and I cannot wait for the next one. If you like a good thriller, this is the series for you!
April 30, 2016
Someone is blowing up priests. Alex Trout and her fellow FBI agents can’t seem to make a connection to each of the bombings. As if that’s not enough on her plate, the FBI Assistant Director has “asked” Alex to secretly investigate her own boss and friend, Supervisory Special Agent Jerry Molloy. It seems Molloy has been associating with a suspected terrorist. Could Alex be wrong about her colleague? It’s up to her to find out.
I like how Alex always gets put on the spot but never backs down. Challenge seems to be her middle name. She’s fiercely loyal, but will always seek the truth. I love how John Mefford always gives you a glimpse of the criminal’s point of view, as well as history of the city depicted in the story. That makes it even more interesting for the reader.
I like how Alex always gets put on the spot but never backs down. Challenge seems to be her middle name. She’s fiercely loyal, but will always seek the truth. I love how John Mefford always gives you a glimpse of the criminal’s point of view, as well as history of the city depicted in the story. That makes it even more interesting for the reader.
May 1, 2016
The story grows with each book
Each book in this series builds the story of its main characters upon the previous one, in this third book of the Alex Trout series we learn a little bit more about Alex, her family and her relationships with her colleagues, giving us more insight into the way she works.
Alex and her team are tasked with finding out Who is bombing Priests. To find out Who you need to find out why. During this journey there is inter agency cooperation, even inter country cooperation, but then why is Alex taken to one side and ordered to investigate her boss who is also a friend.
Twists and turns throughout this book make it a very good read and definitely one to be put on your reading list. I will most certainly be looking out for more in this series
Each book in this series builds the story of its main characters upon the previous one, in this third book of the Alex Trout series we learn a little bit more about Alex, her family and her relationships with her colleagues, giving us more insight into the way she works.
Alex and her team are tasked with finding out Who is bombing Priests. To find out Who you need to find out why. During this journey there is inter agency cooperation, even inter country cooperation, but then why is Alex taken to one side and ordered to investigate her boss who is also a friend.
Twists and turns throughout this book make it a very good read and definitely one to be put on your reading list. I will most certainly be looking out for more in this series
May 1, 2016
Alex Troutt, FBI Agent, is back on her first case after losing her husband and what a case it is! Boston priests are the target and Boston citizens are wanting the bombing to stop and the terrorist caught. Alex and her partner are trying to solve the bombing when Alex is approached and asked to investigate her boss who the FBI thinks is linked to the terrorist. As Alex works this case, she will be torn between personal and professional friendships and working against time to prevent more bombings and loss of lives. A great 5 star read!
May 9, 2016
I simply love every single one of John Mefford's novels. They keep you on the edge of your seat reading late into the night. I haven't missed reading one of them and I will try NEVER to miss reading one. At Once is in the Alex Trout series where Alex is still trying to regain her total memory while reconnecting with her children. Luckily Alex has a housekeeper who keeps it all together while she is out getting the bad guys.
Another win for John Mefford!!
At Once
Another win for John Mefford!!
At Once
September 15, 2016
At bay series,
I have enjoyed all John W. Meffords book so far, now I'm reading At Dusk with high hopes, also have read his other series with enjoyment (Booker) and the (Greed) series. I look forward to each issue that comes out. His writhing is excelent. Even reading three different series is no problem. They do not complicate each others progress. I have told many of my friends to try them. Some writers start getting repetitive after a couple of books and I end up dropping those authors. I would recommend this author to anyone who reads mysteries.
I have enjoyed all John W. Meffords book so far, now I'm reading At Dusk with high hopes, also have read his other series with enjoyment (Booker) and the (Greed) series. I look forward to each issue that comes out. His writhing is excelent. Even reading three different series is no problem. They do not complicate each others progress. I have told many of my friends to try them. Some writers start getting repetitive after a couple of books and I end up dropping those authors. I would recommend this author to anyone who reads mysteries.
April 29, 2016
This is the fourth book I've read by this author and it's another great story by John W. Mefford involving bombings and killings reflective of the IRA, as some are unable to move forward from their troubled past. FBI detective Alex Trout and her partner Nick are on the hunt for the perpetrators, but Alex has also been told to spy on her boss as a possible suspect. This book held my interest throughout, and I look forward to reading more books from/by this author.
May 1, 2016
This series just gets better and better! Alex Troutt is a kick ass FBI agent trying very hard to be there for her kids as a single mom while managing to stay on top of bad guys. Now, on top of everything else, her boss just might be a terrorist! Love the characters and the banter. Action is great and there's even a little romance! Don't miss this series!!
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely love this author and this series. Each book is entertaining, engrossing, well written and a page turner. The bombing in Boston hits close to home, as I live in Mass and had a semi front row seat for the Marathon Day bombings because I was watching the Red Sox game at the time, but this book is so engaging I couldn't put it down.
May 4, 2016
AT Once is the third book in the Alex Troutt series. It can definitely be a standalone book, but I have read the first two, AT Bay & AT Large, because that is just my personal preference when I read series – it’s your call
May 20, 2018
Well what can I say ..John Mefford has given us yet another Alex Troutt mystery that is like the others in that they are just a really great read. I have come to accept that each book in succession is never going to be a let down, due to his unique and gifted way of writing. Furnishes the reader with such captivating reading while page turners abound. Can’t say enough about how pleasing it is to know I am going to sit down and open a book...HIS books...and be captivated from the very start of each. Each book can be a stand alone or read as part of a series and it is my opinion that as a series you gain such a benefit as you watch characters grow and expand and before you know it you are “living” a building story world. Alex pushes through whatever is put on her plate and one smart woman. Her connection to to other characters is exemplary as well. There are many characters who are strong characters in this series as well. Bottom line...John Mefford excels. His books excel. And the reader is rewarded. GO JOHN!!! I HIGHLY recommend not just this series but all his books. This Author does NOT let the reader down.
February 4, 2018
VERY GOOD, BUT.......
I've read the first three books in the series straight through so I obviously enjoy them.....love the characters and the plots have been good. I'm willing to overlook unrealistic responses and actions...and the unnecessary repetitive internal dialogue as both are common in the genre.
But that said, how many hits to the head is this woman (sans helmet) supposed to take and keep functioning?! At least there weren't constant trips and stumbles in this third entry. Finally, who in the heck pinches the corners of their eyes? One time in this one she pinched the bridge of her nose, like normal folks do, and Jerry pinched the space between his eyes so I thought someone finally clued the author in.....but, nope, Alex went right back to pinching the corners of her eyes - unless she has no nails that would hurt like heck! I know this sounds like a petty complaint but since she does it all the time it is just highly irritating! JMHO.
I'm still getting ready to dive into number four - just had to vent a little!
I've read the first three books in the series straight through so I obviously enjoy them.....love the characters and the plots have been good. I'm willing to overlook unrealistic responses and actions...and the unnecessary repetitive internal dialogue as both are common in the genre.
But that said, how many hits to the head is this woman (sans helmet) supposed to take and keep functioning?! At least there weren't constant trips and stumbles in this third entry. Finally, who in the heck pinches the corners of their eyes? One time in this one she pinched the bridge of her nose, like normal folks do, and Jerry pinched the space between his eyes so I thought someone finally clued the author in.....but, nope, Alex went right back to pinching the corners of her eyes - unless she has no nails that would hurt like heck! I know this sounds like a petty complaint but since she does it all the time it is just highly irritating! JMHO.
I'm still getting ready to dive into number four - just had to vent a little!
April 23, 2020
Suspenseful and some big moves
There are some bombings in Boston, but there is also concern of a mole within the FBI. As Alex works to solve that question, we see more of the team and individual personalities emerge. Alex still doesn’t have all her memories, but her core personality is back and why she is leading the search for the internal leak. Her children feature more prominently as do the other fbi team members Nick, Jerry, Brad and Gretchen. Gretchens idea of romance with brad ends, but we see a new romance possibly begin.
Can’t wait to see the next case, how Alex addresses the ending from this book and more of the team and family dynamic.
There are some bombings in Boston, but there is also concern of a mole within the FBI. As Alex works to solve that question, we see more of the team and individual personalities emerge. Alex still doesn’t have all her memories, but her core personality is back and why she is leading the search for the internal leak. Her children feature more prominently as do the other fbi team members Nick, Jerry, Brad and Gretchen. Gretchens idea of romance with brad ends, but we see a new romance possibly begin.
Can’t wait to see the next case, how Alex addresses the ending from this book and more of the team and family dynamic.
April 30, 2018
'At Once' really pulled me in and didn't let go. I loved the story line and how it played out. Full of action, suspense, deceit, thrilling scenarios and great characters. Alex gets pushed again and she pushes right back. The ending kinda surprised me, in a good way- kinda. I'm not sure how it's going to play out. I look forward to reading more. A great add to your tbr list.
October 11, 2022
Bombing Boston
A series of bombings has Boston on edge. Focus turns to Alex's supervisor. Her investigation leads to a chilling conspiracy fueled by hatred, vengeance and twisted loyalty.
After a slow start, this book picked. The ending was exciting. Too much talk though and the family stuff was boring. Will probably read the next one.
A series of bombings has Boston on edge. Focus turns to Alex's supervisor. Her investigation leads to a chilling conspiracy fueled by hatred, vengeance and twisted loyalty.
After a slow start, this book picked. The ending was exciting. Too much talk though and the family stuff was boring. Will probably read the next one.
February 3, 2023
A definite must read series
This was a fantastic story that was intense, complex, and suspenseful. There were many unexpected twists that will keep the readers intrigued until the end. It's a must read series for those who love thrillers.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
This was a fantastic story that was intense, complex, and suspenseful. There were many unexpected twists that will keep the readers intrigued until the end. It's a must read series for those who love thrillers.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
March 28, 2018
I love the suspense.
I enjoy reading mysteries especially when they continue on from an other book. Then you get to know the people in the story. John l like how your stories flow together.☺
I enjoy reading mysteries especially when they continue on from an other book. Then you get to know the people in the story. John l like how your stories flow together.☺
April 26, 2019
3rd in the series and still going strong. Alex has to track down a bomber and is order to investigate her box- no pressure. The day is saved. Some surprising twist. For a heroine she gets beat up along.
August 13, 2019
Alex Troutt Moves On
Thanks to Kindle Unlimited’s free trial, am mowing through John Mefford’s body of work, albeit out of order.
Lots of action, mysteries and mayhem/murder with very mild interpersonal romance, enough to give the characters some humanity.
Thanks to Kindle Unlimited’s free trial, am mowing through John Mefford’s body of work, albeit out of order.
Lots of action, mysteries and mayhem/murder with very mild interpersonal romance, enough to give the characters some humanity.
February 17, 2020
Brilliant crime thriller.
Thoroughly enjoyed this crime thriller. As I've read others from same series , I feel I know the characters well. I liked the plot being linked to deal life past evens. Well written. I will continue to read others in the series and by author.
Thoroughly enjoyed this crime thriller. As I've read others from same series , I feel I know the characters well. I liked the plot being linked to deal life past evens. Well written. I will continue to read others in the series and by author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews