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Jason Conrad Thriller #4
Veil of Deception
What if the company building America’s most expensive weapons system was secretly owned by one of our enemies?
Following a terrifying jet crash, Jason Conrad finds himself on a very short list of people on their way out the door. It is a surprise to everyone when he is assigned to the home of the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center, to an aircraft no one thinks he’s qualified for.
Attached to a secret project with a shadowy contractor, Jason is caught between two complications; an overbearing, retired general determined to see him fail; and an aggressive television reporter who wants him in prison.
When a ghost from the past shows up and a beautiful, yet mysterious woman enters his life, Jason soon discovers his special project has more secrets than anyone knows about . . . and it could cost him his life.
Following a terrifying jet crash, Jason Conrad finds himself on a very short list of people on their way out the door. It is a surprise to everyone when he is assigned to the home of the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center, to an aircraft no one thinks he’s qualified for.
Attached to a secret project with a shadowy contractor, Jason is caught between two complications; an overbearing, retired general determined to see him fail; and an aggressive television reporter who wants him in prison.
When a ghost from the past shows up and a beautiful, yet mysterious woman enters his life, Jason soon discovers his special project has more secrets than anyone knows about . . . and it could cost him his life.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2016
54 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Michael Byars Lewis
8 books68 followersM.B. Lewis is an Amazon #1 International Bestselling Author, and his books have also been on the Bestseller lists on Barnes and Noble Nook and Kobo platforms. The author of the award-winning Jason Conrad Thriller series has been on numerous author panels at writer’s conferences such as Thrillerfest, The Louisiana Book Festival, The Pensacola Book and Writers Festival, and Killer Nashville.
A 25-year Air Force pilot, he has flown special operations combat missions in Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan in the AC-130U Spooky Gunship. Michael is currently a pilot for a major U.S. airline.
A proud Christian active in his community, Michael has mentored college students on leadership development and team-building and is a facilitator for an international leadership training program. He has participated as a buddy for the Tim Tebow Foundation’s “Night to Shine” and in his church’s Military Ministry program. Michael has also teamed with the Air Commando Foundation, which supports Air Commando’s and their families’ unmet needs during critical times.
While his adventures have led to travels all around the world, Michael lives in Florida with his wife Kim.
Follow Michael Byars Lewis:
www.michaelbyarslewis.com
www.facebook.com/mblauthor
Contact Michael Byars Lewis:
michael@michaelbyarslewis.com
A 25-year Air Force pilot, he has flown special operations combat missions in Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan in the AC-130U Spooky Gunship. Michael is currently a pilot for a major U.S. airline.
A proud Christian active in his community, Michael has mentored college students on leadership development and team-building and is a facilitator for an international leadership training program. He has participated as a buddy for the Tim Tebow Foundation’s “Night to Shine” and in his church’s Military Ministry program. Michael has also teamed with the Air Commando Foundation, which supports Air Commando’s and their families’ unmet needs during critical times.
While his adventures have led to travels all around the world, Michael lives in Florida with his wife Kim.
Follow Michael Byars Lewis:
www.michaelbyarslewis.com
www.facebook.com/mblauthor
Contact Michael Byars Lewis:
michael@michaelbyarslewis.com
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 29, 2016
In Veil Of Deception, the second book in the Captain Jason Conrad Series, author Michael Byars Lewis weaves a riveting military thriller that follows the latest adventure of Air Force Captain Jason Conrad.
The reader was introduced to Captain Jason Conrad, a jet pilot instructor at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma, in Surly Bonds, the first book in the series. Now in Veil Of Deception, Jason's adventures continues when he is assigned to Edwards Air Force Base in California, the home of the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center, to assist in the testing of a new top secret Air Force project, the F-2000 fighter jet. But the secret project goes anything but smooth when there are secrets and deception by the contractor, and dangerous espionage from foreign countries who want to take the U.S. down.
Author Michael Byars Lewis utilizes his vast experience as an Air Force pilot to weave a gripping and complex military / political thriller that will captivate the reader's attention, and keep them sitting on the edge of their seats.
Veil Of Deception is a fast paced multi-layered tale that is masterfully interwoven with international intrigue and espionage; secrets, deception, and hidden agendas; political posturing, plots, and threats; surprising twists and turns; a subtle mysterious romance; and an epic military air-to-air dogfight. The reader follows along as Jason is caught in the middle of a dangerous web of deceit as this realistic story unfolds. This is an exciting and dramatic story that engages the reader to figure out who is hiding behind a veil of deception, it will keep them guessing until all the puzzle pieces are put together, and the explosive truth is unveiled in this dangerous international cat and mouse game.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
The reader was introduced to Captain Jason Conrad, a jet pilot instructor at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma, in Surly Bonds, the first book in the series. Now in Veil Of Deception, Jason's adventures continues when he is assigned to Edwards Air Force Base in California, the home of the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center, to assist in the testing of a new top secret Air Force project, the F-2000 fighter jet. But the secret project goes anything but smooth when there are secrets and deception by the contractor, and dangerous espionage from foreign countries who want to take the U.S. down.
Author Michael Byars Lewis utilizes his vast experience as an Air Force pilot to weave a gripping and complex military / political thriller that will captivate the reader's attention, and keep them sitting on the edge of their seats.
Veil Of Deception is a fast paced multi-layered tale that is masterfully interwoven with international intrigue and espionage; secrets, deception, and hidden agendas; political posturing, plots, and threats; surprising twists and turns; a subtle mysterious romance; and an epic military air-to-air dogfight. The reader follows along as Jason is caught in the middle of a dangerous web of deceit as this realistic story unfolds. This is an exciting and dramatic story that engages the reader to figure out who is hiding behind a veil of deception, it will keep them guessing until all the puzzle pieces are put together, and the explosive truth is unveiled in this dangerous international cat and mouse game.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
March 21, 2016
If you enjoy a thriller that keeps coming at you from different angles, then “Veil of Deception” is the right book for you.
If you know how the US Air Force “works”, then you will nod your head in agreement on every page. If you are a closet conspiracy theorist, you may never look at the world the same way after reading this book.
Lewis expertly blends his James Bond/Jack Ryan style action thriller with realistic geographic context in a way that drops the reader into the passenger seat of each character as he bobs and weaves a spy tale you will never forget. I felt like I was in the car on the opening scene in Pensacola, and again at Edwards Air Force Base, where most of this book takes place.
The detail is precise but not too wordy. I think Lewis will see this book become a movie on par with Clancy’s best.
You can’t help but pull for the good guys and hate the villains, that is if you are an American. In the end, the good guys win, or do they?
SPOILER ALERT: Keep an eye on the timeline as you near the end of this historical novel.
I give this book my best rating ever. I think you will too.
If you know how the US Air Force “works”, then you will nod your head in agreement on every page. If you are a closet conspiracy theorist, you may never look at the world the same way after reading this book.
Lewis expertly blends his James Bond/Jack Ryan style action thriller with realistic geographic context in a way that drops the reader into the passenger seat of each character as he bobs and weaves a spy tale you will never forget. I felt like I was in the car on the opening scene in Pensacola, and again at Edwards Air Force Base, where most of this book takes place.
The detail is precise but not too wordy. I think Lewis will see this book become a movie on par with Clancy’s best.
You can’t help but pull for the good guys and hate the villains, that is if you are an American. In the end, the good guys win, or do they?
SPOILER ALERT: Keep an eye on the timeline as you near the end of this historical novel.
I give this book my best rating ever. I think you will too.
May 26, 2016
Reading Veil of Deception was most definitely a roller coaster ride. There was so much happening I just had to keep reading I was afraid I would otherwise get lost in this multi-layered storyline. This is the second book in the Captain Jason Conrad series and I haven't read the first book Surly Bonds, but that did not bother me at all.
You really need to pay attention when reading otherwise you will get completely lost. But I like a challenge so this was not a problem for me. There are a lot af characters in this book, the story is told from multiple angles so all parts are shown. This makes for a lot of story lines in Veil of Deception which in the end come together, except one which lacked some explenation but it was not a big part of the story so it didn't bother me to much but did make me ask "Why?!?!"
The idea on how China would try to bring down America was quite clever and I really liked that angle. It really gives you something to think about. Bring in Russian spionage in the mix and you know that this will be an exciting read.
There is a lot of intrigue, action, espionage, suspense, secrets and deception in Veil of Deception. Definately not a dull or easy read. This was the first book I read by Michael Byars Lewis, but I am looking forward to reading more from him
You really need to pay attention when reading otherwise you will get completely lost. But I like a challenge so this was not a problem for me. There are a lot af characters in this book, the story is told from multiple angles so all parts are shown. This makes for a lot of story lines in Veil of Deception which in the end come together, except one which lacked some explenation but it was not a big part of the story so it didn't bother me to much but did make me ask "Why?!?!"
The idea on how China would try to bring down America was quite clever and I really liked that angle. It really gives you something to think about. Bring in Russian spionage in the mix and you know that this will be an exciting read.
There is a lot of intrigue, action, espionage, suspense, secrets and deception in Veil of Deception. Definately not a dull or easy read. This was the first book I read by Michael Byars Lewis, but I am looking forward to reading more from him
April 24, 2016
Incredible book! Surprises around every corner will have you on the edge of your seat as you read. If you love suspense, espionage, and action this book is definitely for you!
February 5, 2018
Veil of Deception... Quite the unveiling!
First of all, you can't go wrong when your action hero's first name is Jason.
Secondly, the author unveiled bits and pieces slowly at first, drawing you in but making you wonder just where is this thing going? Next thing you know, you're sitting in the cockpit with the hero and a good looking woman, and you realize things just got real.
A great thrill ride, where readers can easily tell the author knows a thing or two about flying. It's five stars for me. Read it, and enjoy!
First of all, you can't go wrong when your action hero's first name is Jason.
Secondly, the author unveiled bits and pieces slowly at first, drawing you in but making you wonder just where is this thing going? Next thing you know, you're sitting in the cockpit with the hero and a good looking woman, and you realize things just got real.
A great thrill ride, where readers can easily tell the author knows a thing or two about flying. It's five stars for me. Read it, and enjoy!
May 5, 2018
It had its moments, but mostly corny and lots of errors
March 4, 2023
Briliant
Brilliant outhor, brilliant book. Initially a bit confused with all the characters but you quickly learn who they are. Lots of tension, good story line. Hard to put down.
Brilliant outhor, brilliant book. Initially a bit confused with all the characters but you quickly learn who they are. Lots of tension, good story line. Hard to put down.
April 19, 2016
I really liked this historical novel of espionage. It is an exciting exploration of how China may be working to take down America. It takes place in 2001.
This is the second novel featuring Jason Conrad. I have not read the first one yet I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Conrad is an Air Force captain who trains jet pilots. In this novel, he is assigned to Edwards Air Force Base to assist in testing a new generation of fighter jet.
We readers soon find out that all is not as it is supposed to be with the company contracted to design and manufacture the new jet. The simulations aren't working properly. The multistory building housing the company is a sham, with only the first floor completed and being used. And then people associated with the project start dying.
I was impressed with the new bent on China trying to take down America. China is behind the company creating the aircraft. One part of their deception is creating cost overruns of into the billions. And this is in 2001. The Chinese aim to drain the Department of Defense of operational funds, ultimately producing a useless aircraft. But as the novel progresses, that is just the tip of the iceberg with respect to what China has planned, using those they have embedded in the U.S. To add to the intrigue, there is a Russian agent, an assassin, seriously interest in the project too.
Jason is not a strong hero. He is a little slow on figuring things out. He's also captivated by a woman from the first novel who suddenly comes back into his life – right when he is going to work with the new jet. I was amazed that he wasn't more suspect of her appearance after being gone for six years. I would have preferred a more savvy male lead. My favorite character was Sherri, a reporter with the New York Times. She's a scrappy woman who is not afraid to be shot at to get an inside story.
Since the plot revolves around a new jet, there is much about flying, enduring Gs, finding turning points, and much more. There is experimental technology involved in this superior jet and that was interesting to read about. The author's expertise in this area shows. I really like his writing style. The novel flows well with continuous action.
I recommend this novel to readers who would like a novel about Chinese plans to severely weaken America. You'll enjoy a realistic plot with lots of action and an exciting end.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
This is the second novel featuring Jason Conrad. I have not read the first one yet I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Conrad is an Air Force captain who trains jet pilots. In this novel, he is assigned to Edwards Air Force Base to assist in testing a new generation of fighter jet.
We readers soon find out that all is not as it is supposed to be with the company contracted to design and manufacture the new jet. The simulations aren't working properly. The multistory building housing the company is a sham, with only the first floor completed and being used. And then people associated with the project start dying.
I was impressed with the new bent on China trying to take down America. China is behind the company creating the aircraft. One part of their deception is creating cost overruns of into the billions. And this is in 2001. The Chinese aim to drain the Department of Defense of operational funds, ultimately producing a useless aircraft. But as the novel progresses, that is just the tip of the iceberg with respect to what China has planned, using those they have embedded in the U.S. To add to the intrigue, there is a Russian agent, an assassin, seriously interest in the project too.
Jason is not a strong hero. He is a little slow on figuring things out. He's also captivated by a woman from the first novel who suddenly comes back into his life – right when he is going to work with the new jet. I was amazed that he wasn't more suspect of her appearance after being gone for six years. I would have preferred a more savvy male lead. My favorite character was Sherri, a reporter with the New York Times. She's a scrappy woman who is not afraid to be shot at to get an inside story.
Since the plot revolves around a new jet, there is much about flying, enduring Gs, finding turning points, and much more. There is experimental technology involved in this superior jet and that was interesting to read about. The author's expertise in this area shows. I really like his writing style. The novel flows well with continuous action.
I recommend this novel to readers who would like a novel about Chinese plans to severely weaken America. You'll enjoy a realistic plot with lots of action and an exciting end.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
April 21, 2016
Michael Byars Lewis in his new book, “Veil Of Deception” Book Two in the Captain Jason Conrad series published by SATCOM Publishing gives us another adventure with Captain Jason Conrad.
From the back cover: There are no coincidences…
When Jason Conrad returned to Vance Air Force Base as a T-38 instructor pilot, he never wanted to leave. For five years, Air Force Captain Jason Conrad flew and instructed in the supersonic T-38. Despite his decline into a self-destructive lifestyle, he was considered one of the best instructors on the base. Following a terrifying jet crash, Jason finds himself on a very short list of people on their way out the door.
It is a surprise to everyone when he is assigned to the home of the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center. Jason should have known that in a ‘one mistake Air Force’ where you ‘do more with less’, everything would not be what it appears. Attached to a secret project with a shadowy contractor, Jason is caught between two complications; an overbearing, retired general determined to see him fail; and an aggressive television reporter who wants him in prison.
When a ghost from the past shows up and a beautiful, yet mysterious woman enters his life, Jason soon discovers his special project has more secrets than anyone knows about . . . and it could cost him his life.
If you look in the Dictionary under, Suspense-Thriller, this novel is listed. Mr. Lewis has given us quite a character with Jason Conrad, he isn’t your typical hero with quite a few rough edges but, I suppose, that is what makes him interesting. Since the plot revolves around a new jet, there is much about flying and most of the plot takes place at Vance Air Force Base. Then there is the interaction with China. There is deception piled upon deception piled upon deception. On top of everything this is quite an engrossing thriller that will have you muttering “oh, no” as you are reading as fast as you can to get to the next page. Don’t start this book late at night as it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down. I am already looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Partners In Crime. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: There are no coincidences…
When Jason Conrad returned to Vance Air Force Base as a T-38 instructor pilot, he never wanted to leave. For five years, Air Force Captain Jason Conrad flew and instructed in the supersonic T-38. Despite his decline into a self-destructive lifestyle, he was considered one of the best instructors on the base. Following a terrifying jet crash, Jason finds himself on a very short list of people on their way out the door.
It is a surprise to everyone when he is assigned to the home of the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center. Jason should have known that in a ‘one mistake Air Force’ where you ‘do more with less’, everything would not be what it appears. Attached to a secret project with a shadowy contractor, Jason is caught between two complications; an overbearing, retired general determined to see him fail; and an aggressive television reporter who wants him in prison.
When a ghost from the past shows up and a beautiful, yet mysterious woman enters his life, Jason soon discovers his special project has more secrets than anyone knows about . . . and it could cost him his life.
If you look in the Dictionary under, Suspense-Thriller, this novel is listed. Mr. Lewis has given us quite a character with Jason Conrad, he isn’t your typical hero with quite a few rough edges but, I suppose, that is what makes him interesting. Since the plot revolves around a new jet, there is much about flying and most of the plot takes place at Vance Air Force Base. Then there is the interaction with China. There is deception piled upon deception piled upon deception. On top of everything this is quite an engrossing thriller that will have you muttering “oh, no” as you are reading as fast as you can to get to the next page. Don’t start this book late at night as it will cost you sleep as you will not want to put it down. I am already looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Partners In Crime. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
December 26, 2016
In his second book, Michael Byars Lewis takes his Air Force hero, Jason Conrad, through another non stop thrill ride full of women, violence, and international intrigue.
Conrad is trying to find some normalcy after the events of the first book, and is looking to get on with his career. But when he lands a once in a lifetime job AND the most mysterious woman of his life shows up after six years, he knows life is going to be anything but normal. Throw in a gorgeous red-headed reporter from the New York Times and some Chinese commandos, and things get absolutely crazy.
It’s obvious that Lewis is writing from experience with regards to aviation and the Air Force, and he uses his knowledge to add believable depth to the story. It is as good a techno-thriller/espionage tale as you will find, but without a lot of jargon, so even those lacking aviation or military experience can fully enjoy its telling. This story gets great marks for creativity, action, and some great characters. Highly recommended for fans of Tom Clancy, Dale Brown, or Jeff Edwards.
Conrad is trying to find some normalcy after the events of the first book, and is looking to get on with his career. But when he lands a once in a lifetime job AND the most mysterious woman of his life shows up after six years, he knows life is going to be anything but normal. Throw in a gorgeous red-headed reporter from the New York Times and some Chinese commandos, and things get absolutely crazy.
It’s obvious that Lewis is writing from experience with regards to aviation and the Air Force, and he uses his knowledge to add believable depth to the story. It is as good a techno-thriller/espionage tale as you will find, but without a lot of jargon, so even those lacking aviation or military experience can fully enjoy its telling. This story gets great marks for creativity, action, and some great characters. Highly recommended for fans of Tom Clancy, Dale Brown, or Jeff Edwards.
April 7, 2016
This supremely satisfying military thriller hits all the right notes while establishing Lewis among the best in the genre. Highly recommended.
The new F-2000 fighter jet is the most secretive project the Air Force has developed since the B-2 bomber. Featuring advanced stealth capability, vertical takeoff/landing and RPA, the ability to fly the aircraft remotely in the event that the pilot becomes incapacitated, the plane is slated to be a game changer for American air superiority. All is well with the F-2000’s tests in the Mojave Desert until the RPA contractor discloses that the sale isn’t necessarily a done deal. Unless their price is met, technology may be sold to a group from Saudi Arabia.
But why exactly are the Saudis interested in remote piloting technology?
Check out the rest of my review at BestThrillers.com
The new F-2000 fighter jet is the most secretive project the Air Force has developed since the B-2 bomber. Featuring advanced stealth capability, vertical takeoff/landing and RPA, the ability to fly the aircraft remotely in the event that the pilot becomes incapacitated, the plane is slated to be a game changer for American air superiority. All is well with the F-2000’s tests in the Mojave Desert until the RPA contractor discloses that the sale isn’t necessarily a done deal. Unless their price is met, technology may be sold to a group from Saudi Arabia.
But why exactly are the Saudis interested in remote piloting technology?
Check out the rest of my review at BestThrillers.com
February 12, 2018
It's always fun to rate your own book, but honestly, I'm very excited about this one! As an author, I've learned and grown quite a bit over the last few years and I've got to say, I'm sure you'll enjoy this book! Give it a try and let me know what you think! The book will be released on April 19th and is available for pre-order on iBooks! Check out our book trailer on my author site!
May 21, 2016
This is the second book I have read of Michael Lewis and it did not disappoint! Great plot and he knows his details which kept me interested and turning the pages. For those of you who enjoy thrillers pick this one up today! Great Job and I look forward to the next Jason Conrad adventure!
January 10, 2017
had several plot lines, that in the beginning were hard to keep track of.
April 21, 2016
Riveting! This is a must-read for sure.
Read
March 25, 2018MWSA Review
In his second book, Michael Byars Lewis takes his Air Force hero, Jason Conrad, through another non stop thrill ride full of women, violence, and international intrigue.
Conrad is trying to find some normalcy after the events of the first book, and is looking to get on with his career. But when he lands a once in a lifetime job AND the most mysterious woman of his life shows up after six years, he knows life is going to be anything but normal. Throw in a gorgeous red-headed reporter from the New York Times and some Chinese commandos, and things get absolutely crazy.
It’s obvious that Lewis is writing from experience with regards to aviation and the Air Force, and he uses his knowledge to add believable depth to the story. It is as good a techno-thriller/espionage tale as you will find, but without a lot of jargon, so even those lacking aviation or military experience can fully enjoy its telling. This story gets great marks for creativity, action, and some great characters. Highly recommended for fans of Tom Clancy, Dale Brown, or Jeff Edwards.
MWSA Reviewer: Rob Ballister
In his second book, Michael Byars Lewis takes his Air Force hero, Jason Conrad, through another non stop thrill ride full of women, violence, and international intrigue.
Conrad is trying to find some normalcy after the events of the first book, and is looking to get on with his career. But when he lands a once in a lifetime job AND the most mysterious woman of his life shows up after six years, he knows life is going to be anything but normal. Throw in a gorgeous red-headed reporter from the New York Times and some Chinese commandos, and things get absolutely crazy.
It’s obvious that Lewis is writing from experience with regards to aviation and the Air Force, and he uses his knowledge to add believable depth to the story. It is as good a techno-thriller/espionage tale as you will find, but without a lot of jargon, so even those lacking aviation or military experience can fully enjoy its telling. This story gets great marks for creativity, action, and some great characters. Highly recommended for fans of Tom Clancy, Dale Brown, or Jeff Edwards.
MWSA Reviewer: Rob Ballister
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews