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Alex Troutt #4
At Dawn
In the valley, greed rules. But how it takes root could destroy Alex’s world.
The shadow of death envelopes her sleepy seaside hometown. Can Alex’s family escape the crossfire?
Drug lords have no mercy…spare no one to achieve their sinister goals. Disconnected investigations converge into one focal point -- and for Alex, it hits too close to home.
Alex will stop at nothing to blow the crime ring straight to hell. But who in her family will be sacrificed in the process?
Alex Troutt Thrillers:
AT BAY - Book 1
AT LARGE - Book 2
AT ONCE - Book 3
AT DAWN - Book 4
AT DUSK - Book 5
AT LAST - Book 6
AT STAKE - Book 7
AT ANY COST - Book 8
BACK AT YOU - Book 9
AT EVERY TURN - Book 10
AT DEATH'S DOOR - Book 11
AT FULL TILT - Book 12
The shadow of death envelopes her sleepy seaside hometown. Can Alex’s family escape the crossfire?
Drug lords have no mercy…spare no one to achieve their sinister goals. Disconnected investigations converge into one focal point -- and for Alex, it hits too close to home.
Alex will stop at nothing to blow the crime ring straight to hell. But who in her family will be sacrificed in the process?
Alex Troutt Thrillers:
AT BAY - Book 1
AT LARGE - Book 2
AT ONCE - Book 3
AT DAWN - Book 4
AT DUSK - Book 5
AT LAST - Book 6
AT STAKE - Book 7
AT ANY COST - Book 8
BACK AT YOU - Book 9
AT EVERY TURN - Book 10
AT DEATH'S DOOR - Book 11
AT FULL TILT - Book 12
- GenresThriller
287 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2016
417 people are currently reading
99 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 31, 2016
At Dawn by John W. Mefford is the fourth installment in the Alex Troutt thriller series and like the previous books can be read as a stand-alone. In this installment, Alex has returned to her hometown to visit her dad. The purpose of the visit was to re-establish her relationship with her dad, spend quality time with her children and re-connect with old friends. She also wanted to use this time to contemplate her growing attraction to her team member, Brad, who was eleven years her junior. Unfortunately, what was meant to be a vacation was slowly turning into something unpredictable and dangerous when she found herself caught up in the midst of chaotic events.
The story started out on an adrenaline high. I was expecting this pace to last throughout the entire story. Alas, this was not the case. The pace fluctuated. One moment there was action and suspense and then the story switches to the everyday drama of a single mother and her children. It was about 60 to 70% that things really picked and from then on it was non-stop action.
Alex has found herself in the middle of a drug war. There are many players and she has no idea who she could trust. When the matter hits close to home, she knew she had to get involved before things escalated out of hand. What appeared to be unrelated events was indeed related to what Alex was facing. As the story progressed, the dots connected and everything became that much clearer.
I have to admit that figuring out who was involved and what was going to happen next was not that difficult. This, however, did not stop me from enjoying the story. If anything, it made it more exciting as I was eager to find out if I guessed right.
I found Alex to be a strong and memorable character. She has been through a lot both physically and emotionally, but she does not allow those events to hold her back from being a loving mother and a hard-working FBI Agent. I admire her ability to balance her role as a single parent to a pre-teen and a teenager with that of her job. This installment revealed more about Alex in her role as a mother. It demonstrated the lengths she would go to protect her children.
Verdict: This is a great addition to the series. It’s filled with action, suspense, drama and comedy. If you enjoy a good mystery/thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, then you will love this series. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
The story started out on an adrenaline high. I was expecting this pace to last throughout the entire story. Alas, this was not the case. The pace fluctuated. One moment there was action and suspense and then the story switches to the everyday drama of a single mother and her children. It was about 60 to 70% that things really picked and from then on it was non-stop action.
Alex has found herself in the middle of a drug war. There are many players and she has no idea who she could trust. When the matter hits close to home, she knew she had to get involved before things escalated out of hand. What appeared to be unrelated events was indeed related to what Alex was facing. As the story progressed, the dots connected and everything became that much clearer.
I have to admit that figuring out who was involved and what was going to happen next was not that difficult. This, however, did not stop me from enjoying the story. If anything, it made it more exciting as I was eager to find out if I guessed right.
I found Alex to be a strong and memorable character. She has been through a lot both physically and emotionally, but she does not allow those events to hold her back from being a loving mother and a hard-working FBI Agent. I admire her ability to balance her role as a single parent to a pre-teen and a teenager with that of her job. This installment revealed more about Alex in her role as a mother. It demonstrated the lengths she would go to protect her children.
Verdict: This is a great addition to the series. It’s filled with action, suspense, drama and comedy. If you enjoy a good mystery/thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, then you will love this series. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
August 24, 2018
Book #4, in the Alex Troutt series
A Redemption Thriller
Although this is part of a series this 4th book can easily be read as a stand-alone but it is always more pleasant if you read series in sequence.
In this installment, Alex is on a well-deserved vacation with her family and heads to small town in Texas where she grew up near the Gulf of Mexico. Focussing primary on her kids and her dad, leaving work behind to enjoy for a short time a fun vacation on the beach was her main wish…what a wonderful trip this is going to be ….well of course not, all changed by a drive by shooting…..
Once again, FBI Special Agent Alex Troutt gives us a twisting, heart pounding saga that grips our attention from the first page. I simply had a hard time putting this thriller down. The story is full of suspense, thrill and mystery. The plot is exciting and the whodunit is a big puzzle to untangle. The twists and turns kept my adrenaline pumping and I was on the edge of my seat till the wee hours wanting to see how far Alex would go….Balancing family life and career is a heavy task, in Alex case her job continually threatens to take over but watch out she is a wolverine and she will get her man/woman.
I enjoyed “At Dawn” it is a well-crafted story with good players. The multiple treads are easy to follow and as they gradually intertwine and come together we are left with one of those suspenseful novels hard to resist. In a few words: this is a fast and furious and sometime funny plot that I enjoyed quite a bit.
A Redemption Thriller
Although this is part of a series this 4th book can easily be read as a stand-alone but it is always more pleasant if you read series in sequence.
In this installment, Alex is on a well-deserved vacation with her family and heads to small town in Texas where she grew up near the Gulf of Mexico. Focussing primary on her kids and her dad, leaving work behind to enjoy for a short time a fun vacation on the beach was her main wish…what a wonderful trip this is going to be ….well of course not, all changed by a drive by shooting…..
Once again, FBI Special Agent Alex Troutt gives us a twisting, heart pounding saga that grips our attention from the first page. I simply had a hard time putting this thriller down. The story is full of suspense, thrill and mystery. The plot is exciting and the whodunit is a big puzzle to untangle. The twists and turns kept my adrenaline pumping and I was on the edge of my seat till the wee hours wanting to see how far Alex would go….Balancing family life and career is a heavy task, in Alex case her job continually threatens to take over but watch out she is a wolverine and she will get her man/woman.
I enjoyed “At Dawn” it is a well-crafted story with good players. The multiple treads are easy to follow and as they gradually intertwine and come together we are left with one of those suspenseful novels hard to resist. In a few words: this is a fast and furious and sometime funny plot that I enjoyed quite a bit.
July 9, 2016
When Special Agent Alex Trout takes her family to South Padre Island, Texas for vacation nothing goes as planned. She is asked to help an old 'friend' with a case; tries to figure out what is going on with her father and his girlfriend; is involved in two drive-by shootings; runs into her old boyfriend in an alley; and her best friend, with whom she staying, is murdered. In the midst of all this she is also trying to do things with her kids and keep them safe while still having a good time. Why can't she have a normal vacation, with normal problems, like other people? At least she has her team back in Boston to call on for help.
The drug problems in South Texas and Mexico are also explored in what seems to be a side story, but which merges with the main story in the end. A lot of is told from the viewpoint of a young man who was kidnapped by drug dealers, tortured, and threatened with death. This part of the story should be read by all HS Seniors or College Freshmen as a warning of what could happen to them if they get involved in dealing drugs. It is terrifying but very real.
As with all the books in this series I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and am anxiously waiting for the next book.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The drug problems in South Texas and Mexico are also explored in what seems to be a side story, but which merges with the main story in the end. A lot of is told from the viewpoint of a young man who was kidnapped by drug dealers, tortured, and threatened with death. This part of the story should be read by all HS Seniors or College Freshmen as a warning of what could happen to them if they get involved in dealing drugs. It is terrifying but very real.
As with all the books in this series I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and am anxiously waiting for the next book.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2016
Alex has returned to San Padre Island for a visit with her Dad and some time with her children, Luke and Erin. She is also trying to figure out her growing relationship with Brad who is 11 years her junior. After a run on the beach, she realizes Luke is starting to grow but is still a 12 year old boy. What really startles her is the changes she is seeing in Erin who is 15 years old. Erin is on the beach in her bikini talking to a college kid. She doesn't recognize her at first and then is horrified by how little the bikini is covering. She gathers her kids up after embarrassing Erin to go get ready for dinner with her Dad and his new love interest. Alex has no idea how that dinner is going to change the whole focus.
John W Mefford has created a series with several winning ingredients. Alex is so very good at her job but a mess at home. Her fellow FBI agents are equally capable but quirky. It is definitely a thriller but with a strong family element. Alex struggles with her growing teenagers and the loss of her husband and his infidelity. The books move fast and keep you guessing until the very end. This book is definitely a great addition to a winning series. The hardest part is waiting for the next Alex Trout book to come out.
John W Mefford has created a series with several winning ingredients. Alex is so very good at her job but a mess at home. Her fellow FBI agents are equally capable but quirky. It is definitely a thriller but with a strong family element. Alex struggles with her growing teenagers and the loss of her husband and his infidelity. The books move fast and keep you guessing until the very end. This book is definitely a great addition to a winning series. The hardest part is waiting for the next Alex Trout book to come out.
July 9, 2016
"the fight in the dog"
At Dawn is a really pleasurable read, as are all of Mr.Mefford's books and, especially, those of the (Special Agent) Alex Troutt series, of which this is number four. All are stand alone novels although even greater enjoyment comes with getting to know and grow with her from the first. This time, Alex takes her children to her old home town for a quiet, relaxing holiday. But it turns out to be far from the anticipated restful break in her routine.
I love the interaction between the characters, especially that of Alex with her family: the concerned mother, loving but irritating children, and her response to her father, with whom life had always been difficult and who now comes complete with new girlfriend hanging on his every word. We all want to respect, and be respected by our parents even if we know it is a losing battle and i really felt for her in the confusion and frustration her situation aroused. We also meet a couple of her old school friends, as well as welcoming back an earlier encountered disaster of a colleague. The dialogue is great, the plot fast and often furious, sometimes funny - and all a highly recommended read.
July 8, 2016
This is the fourth book in the Alex Trout FBI Special Agent series and is as good as the others. You can read this as a standalone or as I would recommend read them all because they are all so good. Author John Mefford does an outstanding job of keeping you guessing on which way he is going with his mysteries and the main character Alex Trout is one kick ass FBI agent…I just love her.
In this book FBI Trout is supposed to be on vacation with her children but she never gets a chance to settle down when she finds herself investigating a crime ring that comes close to her friends and family. She has to bring in help from a PI Archie to help her and finds her father involved as well. This book is well written and keeps you guessing and wanting to turn the pages till the very end. It’s a great read. I received this book for an honest review and highly recommend it.
In this book FBI Trout is supposed to be on vacation with her children but she never gets a chance to settle down when she finds herself investigating a crime ring that comes close to her friends and family. She has to bring in help from a PI Archie to help her and finds her father involved as well. This book is well written and keeps you guessing and wanting to turn the pages till the very end. It’s a great read. I received this book for an honest review and highly recommend it.
June 27, 2016
Alex Troutt is on vacation with her family in Texas until they are right in the middle of a gun battle, not once but twice. Alex, an FBI agent, must protect her family especially when she believes her Dad's new girlfriend is the intended target. Working with her team in Boston and the local law enforcement, Alex is forced to examine the bumps in family relationships that causes guilt and silence, without backing down to protect her loved ones. I highly recommend At Dawn!
July 8, 2016
Another great book in the Alex Troutt series but a stand alone book as well. I enjoyed reading this story which involves the rich, drugs, and murder as Alex and her fellow FBI investigators search for the truth even as the evil-doers attempt to foil their plots. Her father and his new lady are somehow involved Alex finds, much to her dismay and disapproval. Great read!
April 23, 2020
Need a vacation from that vacation
Alex is on vacation with her kids and trying to spend time with her dad. An old friend shows up in the midst of a drive by shooting and Alex finds herself helping to solve a case. A case that as it develops includes her dad, ex boyfriend from high school and one of her best friends from high school.
This story is non stop action and introduces several new characters. It does address the cliffhanger from the previous book, but does not solve or answers cliffhanger potential change in the group dynamic.
It was interesting seeing Alex work in a different environment and without her team there in person. Alex is growing into her self and coming to terms with her husbands death and betrayal more and more each book. I enjoyed Nicks changes as well and look forward to see what new finds we see in the next book!
Alex is on vacation with her kids and trying to spend time with her dad. An old friend shows up in the midst of a drive by shooting and Alex finds herself helping to solve a case. A case that as it develops includes her dad, ex boyfriend from high school and one of her best friends from high school.
This story is non stop action and introduces several new characters. It does address the cliffhanger from the previous book, but does not solve or answers cliffhanger potential change in the group dynamic.
It was interesting seeing Alex work in a different environment and without her team there in person. Alex is growing into her self and coming to terms with her husbands death and betrayal more and more each book. I enjoyed Nicks changes as well and look forward to see what new finds we see in the next book!
October 12, 2022
No Vacation from the Wicked
FBI agent Alex is hoping for a quiet vacation with her kids..instead she is thrust into a conspiracy of drugs and violence. Her father is part of the mystery and an old frenemy is on hand to help.
This was an entertaining read. Fast paced it was interesting and suspenseful. Some of the banter between Alex and her ex CIA nemesis was humorous. Satisfying read.
FBI agent Alex is hoping for a quiet vacation with her kids..instead she is thrust into a conspiracy of drugs and violence. Her father is part of the mystery and an old frenemy is on hand to help.
This was an entertaining read. Fast paced it was interesting and suspenseful. Some of the banter between Alex and her ex CIA nemesis was humorous. Satisfying read.
February 3, 2023
A fantastic thriller series
Although Alex and her kids are supposed to be on vacation, it seems like her work never stops. When her family becomes involved, she's determined to figure out what's happening, as well as trying to save everyone she loves. Secrets, lies, betrayals, and intriguing twists will keep you guessing until the very end.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
Although Alex and her kids are supposed to be on vacation, it seems like her work never stops. When her family becomes involved, she's determined to figure out what's happening, as well as trying to save everyone she loves. Secrets, lies, betrayals, and intriguing twists will keep you guessing until the very end.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
May 5, 2018
'AT Dawn' was a great addition to an awesome series. Well written and well played out. The story line was intriguing, full of action, mystery, deceit and great characters. As it seems, Alex will always find herself in the middle of a $h!& storm, but she handles herself well. She is such a kick-ass lead. I look forward to reading more.
February 20, 2020
Brilliant crime thriller
Thoroughly enjoyed this fast moving crime thriller with it's relatable characters. Have read other series by same other would highly recommend. Can't wait to read need in series.
Thoroughly enjoyed this fast moving crime thriller with it's relatable characters. Have read other series by same other would highly recommend. Can't wait to read need in series.
March 6, 2023
At Dawn
Different Alex tale but still full of the female Rambo allusions that introduced the previous books of the series.A lot more interaction with her family, which proves she is into her job above all else. A lot of nonsense with her compatriots.
Different Alex tale but still full of the female Rambo allusions that introduced the previous books of the series.A lot more interaction with her family, which proves she is into her job above all else. A lot of nonsense with her compatriots.
February 24, 2025
Good Read
Another good book in this series. Alex Trout is a very tough FBI agent. She didnt get as beat up in this book as the others.
Another good book in this series. Alex Trout is a very tough FBI agent. She didnt get as beat up in this book as the others.
July 29, 2016
AT Dawn, like Mefford's previous submissions in the Alex Troutt Detective series, is fast-paced, has well developed characters, and writing that carries you through each scene right into the next, like you are in the story line. I like that in a novel. It keeps me waiting for the next shoe to drop, trying to figure out who-dun-it.
Alex Troutt (AT) has been through alot in the past few years - cases that are still unraveling as she recovers elements of her past she has forgotten; the death of her husband (also an agent) which may involve betrayal by former colleagues, and since then, dangerous cases that have put her family at peril. She continues to be a force with which to be reckoned, and a badass female detective.
In this contribution to the AT series, AT Dawn, Troutt is on vacation with her kids, in her hometown of Padre Island, Texas. She's taken them to visit her father and her best friend from high school.
Seems like it would be a nice getaway, except Alex' investigative alert goes off when she meets her Dad's new love interest.
That doesn't fare well for the already tenuous relationship between Alex and her Dad, because as the story unfolds, incredible serious issues come to the forefront about his new lover. The action starts and, with help from a former CIA agent friend, Alex gets to the truth.
This book has comedy, action, full characters, plot and follow through. That's what it takes for me to be able to commit to a character and keep following through a series. Alex Troutt is that kind of growing character, and the supporting cast around her, including her kids and fellow detectives add to the investment of the reader.
**I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
Alex Troutt (AT) has been through alot in the past few years - cases that are still unraveling as she recovers elements of her past she has forgotten; the death of her husband (also an agent) which may involve betrayal by former colleagues, and since then, dangerous cases that have put her family at peril. She continues to be a force with which to be reckoned, and a badass female detective.
In this contribution to the AT series, AT Dawn, Troutt is on vacation with her kids, in her hometown of Padre Island, Texas. She's taken them to visit her father and her best friend from high school.
Seems like it would be a nice getaway, except Alex' investigative alert goes off when she meets her Dad's new love interest.
That doesn't fare well for the already tenuous relationship between Alex and her Dad, because as the story unfolds, incredible serious issues come to the forefront about his new lover. The action starts and, with help from a former CIA agent friend, Alex gets to the truth.
This book has comedy, action, full characters, plot and follow through. That's what it takes for me to be able to commit to a character and keep following through a series. Alex Troutt is that kind of growing character, and the supporting cast around her, including her kids and fellow detectives add to the investment of the reader.
**I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2016
This is my first time to read one of John Meffords books and to be honest, I'm hooked. I enjoyed the fast paced action, mystery and intrigue. I enjoyed it so much that I am going to have to buy the first 3 in this series. I am glad to have found this series and await book 5 too! I am an advanced reader, but now will be buying up all of his books!
July 13, 2016
Once again, John Mefford has crafted a superbly intense thriller with one of my new favourite characters, ballsy female FBI agent Alex Troutt.
Despite the fact that she is taking a well earned beach vacation with her kids, Alex finds herself, her family and her closest friend embroiled in drive by shootings and the nefarious activities of a drugs cartel.
Then there's the missing son of a rich couple who has vanished after a night of wild partying and hasn't been seen since.
At the centre of the story is Alex's relationship with her father who, although he now seems to be on the up-and-up, appears to have got himself into a situation which is putting lives at risk.
The strands of the story are cleverly interwoven and in this 4th book, you get to know the members of Alex' family even better. Then there are characters from the previous Alex Troutt thrillers, her crack investigative team back in Boston, including the hunky Brad, and the hilarious Archie whose hair is as funny as his priceless one-liners.
Without giving anything away, At Dawn will keep you truly gripped all night and you wonder if Alex and her family will escape their latest escapade unscathed.
Mefford's Alex Troutt is a great, believable female lead who wrestles with the very common dilemma of balancing her working life with the challenges of being a mother. Luckily, in my own experience, there are far less bullets.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Despite the fact that she is taking a well earned beach vacation with her kids, Alex finds herself, her family and her closest friend embroiled in drive by shootings and the nefarious activities of a drugs cartel.
Then there's the missing son of a rich couple who has vanished after a night of wild partying and hasn't been seen since.
At the centre of the story is Alex's relationship with her father who, although he now seems to be on the up-and-up, appears to have got himself into a situation which is putting lives at risk.
The strands of the story are cleverly interwoven and in this 4th book, you get to know the members of Alex' family even better. Then there are characters from the previous Alex Troutt thrillers, her crack investigative team back in Boston, including the hunky Brad, and the hilarious Archie whose hair is as funny as his priceless one-liners.
Without giving anything away, At Dawn will keep you truly gripped all night and you wonder if Alex and her family will escape their latest escapade unscathed.
Mefford's Alex Troutt is a great, believable female lead who wrestles with the very common dilemma of balancing her working life with the challenges of being a mother. Luckily, in my own experience, there are far less bullets.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
July 26, 2016
AT Dawn is the 4th installment in the Alex Troutt Thriller series. It can be read as a stand-alone book, but in my personal opinion, you’ll understand more of the background if you’ve read the previous books.
Like most women, Alex Troutt wears many hats. First and foremost, she is a single mom, as well as, an FBI agent and a woman who wouldn’t mind the affections of a wonderful man in her life. For her, and most women, life is hectic and can seem to be like a balancing act.
In this installment, Alex is focusing on her family life … not work. She takes her kids on a well-deserved and overdue vacation to the small town where she grew up on the gulf coast of Texas. She imagined enjoying fun, sun-filled days on the beach with her kids, re-connecting with her estranged father, and catching up with lifelong friends she grew up with. Sounds like the perfect trip … until her family is put in danger by a drive-by shooting involving a new drug cartel trying to take over the quiet beach town that attracts a lot of tourism.
So much for relaxing with her family … she goes into FBI mode and teams up with an old CIA colleague who is now working as a PI looking for a rich college kid who has disappeared. Are these cases somehow related? She follows all the leads and somehow, her father’s girlfriend seems to be involved. Is she involved with the cartel? Is she putting her father in danger … and her kids?
Like most women, Alex has to balance family life with work life … with one exception, her involves a lot of bullets!
This is a great book (and a great series) … 2 thumbs up!
Like most women, Alex Troutt wears many hats. First and foremost, she is a single mom, as well as, an FBI agent and a woman who wouldn’t mind the affections of a wonderful man in her life. For her, and most women, life is hectic and can seem to be like a balancing act.
In this installment, Alex is focusing on her family life … not work. She takes her kids on a well-deserved and overdue vacation to the small town where she grew up on the gulf coast of Texas. She imagined enjoying fun, sun-filled days on the beach with her kids, re-connecting with her estranged father, and catching up with lifelong friends she grew up with. Sounds like the perfect trip … until her family is put in danger by a drive-by shooting involving a new drug cartel trying to take over the quiet beach town that attracts a lot of tourism.
So much for relaxing with her family … she goes into FBI mode and teams up with an old CIA colleague who is now working as a PI looking for a rich college kid who has disappeared. Are these cases somehow related? She follows all the leads and somehow, her father’s girlfriend seems to be involved. Is she involved with the cartel? Is she putting her father in danger … and her kids?
Like most women, Alex has to balance family life with work life … with one exception, her involves a lot of bullets!
This is a great book (and a great series) … 2 thumbs up!
July 12, 2016
Alex Trout is finally going to take a much needed vacation with her kids to the town where she grew up. She is hoping to see her Dad--if he is in any condition to see them. She will be staying with one of her friends from back then. Like Alex, this friend has also lost her husband--but has done really well for herself in the real estate business. Her Dad and his girlfriend also seem to be doing very well--her Dad no longer drinks--but the girlfriend--well Alex has her doubts.
A college boy from a wealthy family is kidnapped from a party he attended by a drug cartel and what he is put through is gruesome. Enter Archie--one of those guys that thinks he is --well--Alex puts him in his place-pronto! Archie, who was kicked out of the CIA is now a PI and he is trying to find out where the abducted young man is. He enlists Alex's at first unwilling help. Meanwhile a new drug cartel is trying to take over--and bullets begin to fly!
Can Alex keep her kids safe in all this melee? Will she be able to help Archie find the young man? And what's up with the money her friend and Father seem to have--something is not Kosher in this small town by the ocean! The answers are in the book----
There are lots of twists and turns in this one--I am sure you will enjoy the read!!
AT Dawn
A college boy from a wealthy family is kidnapped from a party he attended by a drug cartel and what he is put through is gruesome. Enter Archie--one of those guys that thinks he is --well--Alex puts him in his place-pronto! Archie, who was kicked out of the CIA is now a PI and he is trying to find out where the abducted young man is. He enlists Alex's at first unwilling help. Meanwhile a new drug cartel is trying to take over--and bullets begin to fly!
Can Alex keep her kids safe in all this melee? Will she be able to help Archie find the young man? And what's up with the money her friend and Father seem to have--something is not Kosher in this small town by the ocean! The answers are in the book----
There are lots of twists and turns in this one--I am sure you will enjoy the read!!
AT Dawn
June 25, 2020
Easily the best Alex Troutt book yet. I've read a few of Mefford's books and all of them are filled with action and suspense but this one ramps it up to a whole other level. Twists and turns throughout; some you see coming but others slap you in the face.
Mefford develops the characters well in this installment and I'm left wanting to know what happens from here. Will Alex get over the age difference and finally accept Brad into her life the way she wants to? How will Luke and Erin cope after the things they have witnessed? Archie is a fantastic character who is comical and gallant as well as horny! I liked that we got to know more about the children in this book as the main focus throughout is family. Alex returns to her hometown for a well needed vacation and finds things with her father have altered dramtically since they met last.
The action in the book is controlled by Mefford's clever use of dialogue over description which brings the reader right into the scene being shown what is happening rather than told. Though this book is book 4 in a series it can also be read as a stand alone book but trust me by the end you will want to read the next one.
Please note: I never include spoilers in my reveiws as I feel it takes away from the reading experience.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
Mefford develops the characters well in this installment and I'm left wanting to know what happens from here. Will Alex get over the age difference and finally accept Brad into her life the way she wants to? How will Luke and Erin cope after the things they have witnessed? Archie is a fantastic character who is comical and gallant as well as horny! I liked that we got to know more about the children in this book as the main focus throughout is family. Alex returns to her hometown for a well needed vacation and finds things with her father have altered dramtically since they met last.
The action in the book is controlled by Mefford's clever use of dialogue over description which brings the reader right into the scene being shown what is happening rather than told. Though this book is book 4 in a series it can also be read as a stand alone book but trust me by the end you will want to read the next one.
Please note: I never include spoilers in my reveiws as I feel it takes away from the reading experience.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
August 3, 2016
I have read the previous books in this series so was keen to see what FBI Agent Alex Troutt was caught up in this time. We were left hanging somewhat at the end of the last book when she had to make a decision about her personal life.
There is never a dull moment as far as she is concerned. Whenever she attempts to stop and take a vacation peril tends to loom nearby. Whilst this is the fourth in the series it can be read as a standalone but as always I would recommend reading them all to get the full enjoyment.
There are a bevy of familiar characters, her kids, and a rather disjointed relationship with her father. Alex is a tough cookie, I seem to recall saying that before but she needs to have her wits about her when she gets lured into all these situations and needs to come out with her life intact.
I really like Alex, she is a strong lead, capable of being a feisty professional but well aware she needs to portray a softer side when dealing with her family.
I won’t give away spoilers but you can be in for a thrilling ride when you pick up any of John’s books. So many twists and turns you need to keep your head on and enjoy. I think each instalment gets under my skin a little more because we see into the eyes of Alex.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
There is never a dull moment as far as she is concerned. Whenever she attempts to stop and take a vacation peril tends to loom nearby. Whilst this is the fourth in the series it can be read as a standalone but as always I would recommend reading them all to get the full enjoyment.
There are a bevy of familiar characters, her kids, and a rather disjointed relationship with her father. Alex is a tough cookie, I seem to recall saying that before but she needs to have her wits about her when she gets lured into all these situations and needs to come out with her life intact.
I really like Alex, she is a strong lead, capable of being a feisty professional but well aware she needs to portray a softer side when dealing with her family.
I won’t give away spoilers but you can be in for a thrilling ride when you pick up any of John’s books. So many twists and turns you need to keep your head on and enjoy. I think each instalment gets under my skin a little more because we see into the eyes of Alex.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 12, 2016
I do love a good mystery and John W Mefford has come through again. Add to the mystery of the shootings surrounding Alex Troutt the fact that this is another strong female main character and I read this book straight through, not putting it down.
Normally, I am drawn to the Alex Troutt books from the setting and Alex, of course. Previous books were set in the Boston area, a favorite city of mine. This particular one is set in Alex's home town on the Gulf coast of Texas. Sun, sand and ocean water that is warm enough to actually swim in - not something you find in Boston very often - add to the mystery of the shootings and dead bodies that appear and seem to be involving Alex.
Almost more importantly, especially to Alex, these mysteries involve her children as they have been close by during the shootings. She must keep her family safe while helping local police stop the bloodshed in her hometown.
This book provides interesting glimpses into Alex's past, including an appearance by her high school crush/boyfriend.
You should pick up a copy and delve into the world that rotates around Alex Troutt.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through Beck Valley Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% mine.
Normally, I am drawn to the Alex Troutt books from the setting and Alex, of course. Previous books were set in the Boston area, a favorite city of mine. This particular one is set in Alex's home town on the Gulf coast of Texas. Sun, sand and ocean water that is warm enough to actually swim in - not something you find in Boston very often - add to the mystery of the shootings and dead bodies that appear and seem to be involving Alex.
Almost more importantly, especially to Alex, these mysteries involve her children as they have been close by during the shootings. She must keep her family safe while helping local police stop the bloodshed in her hometown.
This book provides interesting glimpses into Alex's past, including an appearance by her high school crush/boyfriend.
You should pick up a copy and delve into the world that rotates around Alex Troutt.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through Beck Valley Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% mine.
August 9, 2016
I received a book for my honest review.
This is the first Alex Troutt book I’ve read but I had no problem at all getting into the story or enjoying it on its own. Alex is an FBI agent who heads back to her home to visit her father and meet his new girlfriend. She instantly doesn’t like the woman and cannot figure out why. Her father assumes that it’s simply because the woman isn’t her mother, but Alex knows that isn’t it.
Of course, Alex doesn’t end up being able to have a relaxing vacation with her kids. Instead, she is involved in a drive-by shooting by a local drug cartel which has her partnering with an old colleague from the CIA. As she tries to figure out who is behind the shooting, it starts to look like her father’s new girlfriend is somehow tied into it. That has her questioning whether she just doesn’t like the woman or has a good reason not to trust her.
Tied into the suspense and mystery of the story is a romance with another FBI agent and the traditional struggles of a single woman who is trying to balance a job, family, and children. All of this combines to make Alex very relatable and easy to like. If you enjoy suspense stories about strong women, you’ll love AT Dawn.
This is the first Alex Troutt book I’ve read but I had no problem at all getting into the story or enjoying it on its own. Alex is an FBI agent who heads back to her home to visit her father and meet his new girlfriend. She instantly doesn’t like the woman and cannot figure out why. Her father assumes that it’s simply because the woman isn’t her mother, but Alex knows that isn’t it.
Of course, Alex doesn’t end up being able to have a relaxing vacation with her kids. Instead, she is involved in a drive-by shooting by a local drug cartel which has her partnering with an old colleague from the CIA. As she tries to figure out who is behind the shooting, it starts to look like her father’s new girlfriend is somehow tied into it. That has her questioning whether she just doesn’t like the woman or has a good reason not to trust her.
Tied into the suspense and mystery of the story is a romance with another FBI agent and the traditional struggles of a single woman who is trying to balance a job, family, and children. All of this combines to make Alex very relatable and easy to like. If you enjoy suspense stories about strong women, you’ll love AT Dawn.
July 18, 2016
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
This is book 4 in the series and would most definitely advise you read the previous though this is semi-stand alome.
Alex is on vacation in South Padre Island, Texas with her kids Luke and Erin, where she hopes to have a relaxing time to spend as a family and mull over the situation with Brad - who kissed her in parking garage in book 3 leaving her all over the place - is is eleven years younger than her and her work colleague!
Sadly peace and quiet is not in the agenda for Alex as gets involved with a case after a drive by shooting happens when she was out to dinner with her Dad and girlfriend Carly. An ex FBI college Archie also happens to be in South Padre and enlists her helps on PI case he is working on looking for a missing kids of a wealthy family. Could the two be connected?
This is yet another fantastic book in the series, and I am loving Alex as a character more with each book. Another fab 5 stars.
This is book 4 in the series and would most definitely advise you read the previous though this is semi-stand alome.
Alex is on vacation in South Padre Island, Texas with her kids Luke and Erin, where she hopes to have a relaxing time to spend as a family and mull over the situation with Brad - who kissed her in parking garage in book 3 leaving her all over the place - is is eleven years younger than her and her work colleague!
Sadly peace and quiet is not in the agenda for Alex as gets involved with a case after a drive by shooting happens when she was out to dinner with her Dad and girlfriend Carly. An ex FBI college Archie also happens to be in South Padre and enlists her helps on PI case he is working on looking for a missing kids of a wealthy family. Could the two be connected?
This is yet another fantastic book in the series, and I am loving Alex as a character more with each book. Another fab 5 stars.
July 26, 2016
Alex Troutt heats up with a visit back to her hometown for vacation. As usual, it doesn't take long for Texas to start its smothering tendencies by bodies showing up that are a little too close for comfort. Alex starts connecting the dots and she struggles with how she is going to keep her family safe. I connected with Alex because of her strained relationship with her father. Fate steps in and she beings to question just how good things are, how the situation has changed, etc. when her father's new girlfriend is woven into the mess.
I've loved Alex since the very start as she embodies a strong, willful woman yet still has a soft side that really wins you over as a fan. All of Mefford's characters woven into the story add to the dynamics and without one of them, the story would be totally different so love them or hate them, each character plays their part - and plays it well!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I've loved Alex since the very start as she embodies a strong, willful woman yet still has a soft side that really wins you over as a fan. All of Mefford's characters woven into the story add to the dynamics and without one of them, the story would be totally different so love them or hate them, each character plays their part - and plays it well!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 10, 2016
Some people have no idea of how to take a vacation. Alex tries to put behind the last few months of trauma and amnesia while spending time with her two impressionable children. She thinks some time spent where she grew up will be relaxing and interesting. Alex had NO IDEA how interesting this vacation will be or how quickly her children will see what crazy shit their mother finds herself involved in for a living. This time their grandfather seems to be smack in the middle of it also.
The brutal opening scenes are not for the weak stomach and set the tone for much violence in the book to follow. You don't need to have read previous books to get this storyline but you will appreciate all the extra stress and difficulties Special Agent Troutt is experiencing if you have watched the team characters develop.
There are also a lot of passages full of sexual innuendo, so this book is not for those reserved or squeamish. I did receive this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
The brutal opening scenes are not for the weak stomach and set the tone for much violence in the book to follow. You don't need to have read previous books to get this storyline but you will appreciate all the extra stress and difficulties Special Agent Troutt is experiencing if you have watched the team characters develop.
There are also a lot of passages full of sexual innuendo, so this book is not for those reserved or squeamish. I did receive this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
July 20, 2016
I love Alex Troutt, and this story makes me appreciate her even more. Alex has decided to take her kids on a vacation, in the hopes of reconnecting with her father (and running from some turmoil in her personal life).
In her small hometown, Alex's family is threatened by a drive by shooting, and Alex is quickly thrust out of vacation mode and into Special Agent Troutt mode. She runs into a former CIA agent that she's worked with before, and runs around trying to solve both cases before her family is placed in more danger.
The only downside for me is that it needed to be longer... the end seemed rushed, and was told to the reader rather than having it be part of the story.
This book is a thrilling mystery, with so many twists and turns that you will be constantly surprised. Don't start it late at night, or you'll never go to sleep because you won't put it down!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
In her small hometown, Alex's family is threatened by a drive by shooting, and Alex is quickly thrust out of vacation mode and into Special Agent Troutt mode. She runs into a former CIA agent that she's worked with before, and runs around trying to solve both cases before her family is placed in more danger.
The only downside for me is that it needed to be longer... the end seemed rushed, and was told to the reader rather than having it be part of the story.
This book is a thrilling mystery, with so many twists and turns that you will be constantly surprised. Don't start it late at night, or you'll never go to sleep because you won't put it down!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 25, 2016
After the gruesome death of her husband, some grueling cases, being betrayed by her father and surprised by an interaction with her colleague, Alex Troutt needs a vacation. With her two children in tow, Alex heads to her hometown to visit her childhood friend and father. It is not soon after her arrival that Alex finds herself in the middle of a drive by and two possible cases.
On one of the cases is Archie, who she worked with only once before. After reviewing the chaotic events, Alex is not sure that she can trust her dad's new boo. While working the impromptu cases, Alex works through the ghosts of her past and nagging doubts of being manipulated.
You are definitely going to want to keep reading in this series to find out what unexpected surprises Alex will encounter. Mefford is still teasing us with the surprise ending from the previous book (AT Once), so we have that delicious development to look forward to as well.
On one of the cases is Archie, who she worked with only once before. After reviewing the chaotic events, Alex is not sure that she can trust her dad's new boo. While working the impromptu cases, Alex works through the ghosts of her past and nagging doubts of being manipulated.
You are definitely going to want to keep reading in this series to find out what unexpected surprises Alex will encounter. Mefford is still teasing us with the surprise ending from the previous book (AT Once), so we have that delicious development to look forward to as well.
July 26, 2016
Alex Troutt is trying to have a nice, leisurely vacation with her kids. She takes them to her hometown of Padre Island, TX to visit her father, his latest love interest & her best friend from High School. Alex has a tumultuous relationship with her father & it only goes downhill when she meets his latest love interest. Even though Alex is on vacation, her FBI senses go off the chain when she meets the woman & her intuition continues to go crazy with every ensuing encounter! She runs across an ex-coworker Archie who is now working as a PI & that encounter proves to be very helpful in the long run. From Alex's first meal with her father & "the woman" things start going CRAZY! Bullets flying, drugs, old friends with BIG SECRETS, new acquaintances with BIGGER SECRETS & nonstop ACTION, ACTION, ACTION! You will join Alex in needing a vacation after reading this Wild Ride! I received an ARC for a fair & honest review.
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