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Tier One #2
War Shadows
John Dempsey, former Navy SEAL and Tier One operator, is back. Only a few months into his new life as an operative for Ember, the United States’ most covert counterterrorism entity, he must stop an old nemesis who’s resurfaced after ten years of operating in the shadows. From the deserts of Iraq, through the jungles of Guatemala, to the streets of suburbia, Dempsey and his Ember team race against time to stop a series of horrific and devious attacks against the homeland.
In this second installment of the Tier One series, John Dempsey faces his greatest challenge as he continues to evolve from a decorated Navy SEAL into the country’s most lethal protector.
In this second installment of the Tier One series, John Dempsey faces his greatest challenge as he continues to evolve from a decorated Navy SEAL into the country’s most lethal protector.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2017
1705 people are currently reading
1141 people want to read
About the author
Brian Andrews
40 books1,150 followersBrian is a US Navy veteran, nuclear engineer, and former submarine officer. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in psychology, holds a Master's in business from Cornell University, and is a Park Leadership Fellow. He is a principal contributor at Career Authors, a site dedicated to advancing the careers of aspiring and published writers: www.careerauthors.com.
He is half of Andrews & Wilson, the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, & #1 Amazon best-selling co-author team behind the TIER ONE series. New in 2025:
- DARK RISING: (APRIL)
- SONS OF VALOR 4: (7/22)
- THE ADVERSARY: Tier One #9 (11/4)
- EXECUTIVE POWER (11/25)
In addition to their novels, Andrews & Wilson have multiple projects under development for film and television with major motion picture studios including Tier One, Dark Intercept, 4 Minutes, Portal, Glitch, and The In Between.
Find Brian online at:
Web: www.andrews-wilson.com
Instagram: @andrewsandwilson
Twitter: @BAndrewsJWilson
Sign-up for his newsletter at www.andrews-wilson.com to stay informed about all his new releases or "Follow" his Amazon Author page!
He is half of Andrews & Wilson, the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, & #1 Amazon best-selling co-author team behind the TIER ONE series. New in 2025:
- DARK RISING: (APRIL)
- SONS OF VALOR 4: (7/22)
- THE ADVERSARY: Tier One #9 (11/4)
- EXECUTIVE POWER (11/25)
In addition to their novels, Andrews & Wilson have multiple projects under development for film and television with major motion picture studios including Tier One, Dark Intercept, 4 Minutes, Portal, Glitch, and The In Between.
Find Brian online at:
Web: www.andrews-wilson.com
Instagram: @andrewsandwilson
Twitter: @BAndrewsJWilson
Sign-up for his newsletter at www.andrews-wilson.com to stay informed about all his new releases or "Follow" his Amazon Author page!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews
February 21, 2017
John Dempsey takes us on another covert operation tracking down a terrorist that evaded his capture ten years earlier. al-Mahajer was once Mujahideen when he slipped away but now he is a top ISIS player & has resurfaced for an attack on US soil. Dempsey & the operatives of Ember, the US's most clandestine counter-terrorism organization, are ready for the what lies ahead. They are chasing a ghost but as the puzzle pieces begin to fall into place it becomes apparent that the terrorist has sights set on showing the Great Satan (Americans) that they are not safe anywhere. It becomes a race against time, whether each of the chosen cities exact locations can be pinpointed before mass casualties are inflicted. To John more is at stake than just saving lives, one of the cities targeted happens to be where his wife & son live from his life prior to Ember. Will the Ember teams be able to stop al-Mahajer? Will they make it in time to stop the suicide bombers? Will John's ex-wife & son live?
This was another thrill ride with the Tier One team lead by John Dempsey. Though it takes a bit to set the story in action because there are a lot of working parts to the terrorist's plot, the hanging by the seat of my pants at the end was well worth it. These co-authors do a seamless job of bringing together a story that is both believable & right out of today's possible news about ISIS terrorists. Though I hope & pray we have a real life John Dempsey & crew fighting on our side! I enjoyed reading this second installment in the Tier One Series & very much look forward to reading more about how Ember saves us from terrorism.
I voluntarily reviewed a Net Galley copy of this book.
This was another thrill ride with the Tier One team lead by John Dempsey. Though it takes a bit to set the story in action because there are a lot of working parts to the terrorist's plot, the hanging by the seat of my pants at the end was well worth it. These co-authors do a seamless job of bringing together a story that is both believable & right out of today's possible news about ISIS terrorists. Though I hope & pray we have a real life John Dempsey & crew fighting on our side! I enjoyed reading this second installment in the Tier One Series & very much look forward to reading more about how Ember saves us from terrorism.
I voluntarily reviewed a Net Galley copy of this book.
July 27, 2023
This is Military/Spy/Thriller. I have a soft spot for lead characters in this type of book. Jack Dempsey is one who can get the job done. I like him as an MC. He is normal enough but driven to serve his country.
This main story in this one was trying to thwart a terrorist attack on American soil. Because this scenario has been done so many times, I'd like to see other plots or at least some subplots thrown in. But it doesn't matter, I'd still read this genre and I'd still read this series.
This one moved right along with a quick pace and plenty of action. So 4 stars.
This main story in this one was trying to thwart a terrorist attack on American soil. Because this scenario has been done so many times, I'd like to see other plots or at least some subplots thrown in. But it doesn't matter, I'd still read this genre and I'd still read this series.
This one moved right along with a quick pace and plenty of action. So 4 stars.
August 5, 2020
WAR SHADOWS by Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson is a superbly written novel in the style of Vince Flynn that delivers everything a reader of Military/Political thrillers searches for - likeable characters, precise detail, guns and armament, execution of battle scenes from tracing, tracking, through to elimination.
Andrews&Wilson’s initial book,TIER ONE, introduces you to SEAL team leader Jack Kemper, warrior in the Tier One SEAL team, who finds himself an injured survivor of the ambush/massacre of Tier One SEALs at a sesspool called AL Qa’im in the Wild West of western Iraq. Lured by the intell knowledge it could be the focal point of taking out the world’s worst terrorists in the Middle East.
A decision has been made,at the highest level,to create a specialized Tier One/CIA team with the capability to enact, with surgical precision, the immediate proactive execution of any threat requiring the elimination of red tape, bureaucratic procrastination, and ego-stroked politicos.EMBER becomes the go-to team for the takedown of dangerous Al-Qaeda and ISIS terrorist threats both domestic and overseas,utilizing speed, stealth, and efficiency.
Like a rising Phoenix,John Dempsey, aka Jack Kemper takes command of this assault team. But to do so, he must lose the life of Jack Kemper, leaving family and friends to grieve at an empty casket and become Jack Dempsey, the best of the best. Though time passes, one thought is always embedded in Dempsey’s mind - to trace, track down, and get Mahood bin Jabbar, aka Rafiq Al-Mahajer , the man who destroyed his life and that of friends and brothers. Dempsey finds it a hit and miss deal, and is not happy when Al-Mahajer slips out the back door again.
The heat is on, especially when AL-Mahajer pops back up, now linked to Iran and Hezbollah. The reader is introduced to Behrouz Rostami, a senior lieutenant to Iran’s VEVAK Director of Foreign Operations. Modiri is out for revenge due to Americans foiling his attack on the United Nations, and the killing of family. A multi-pronged attack is planned that brings this trinity of evil together in one plot and a direct attack on the United States.
Dempsey’s commanding officer/supervisor has a sharp,gifted mind, able to assess each possible alternative and outcome. Kelso Jarvis makes the decision to introduce a CIA officer into EMBER, an expert on hidden Iranian sleeper cells in the US,by the name of Simon Adamo. There is no great love of CIA operatives; they are viewed as a stumbling block in getting the job done.
The team does not work comfortably with one another at first, but step by step they manage to profile the sleeper cell and in an assault, determine that the Iran team is hooked up with Mexican cartel members to enter the US through a series of tunnels. The race to track these invaders is on and they are working against the clock.
With SEALs, known to Dempsey, added to the mix,Team EMBER sets out to track these terrorists to the US border, courtesy of Adamo’s specialized knowledge of terrorist cells. They are able to ascertain that it is a multi-pronged attack against Seattle, Atlanta and Omaha. The team is split between the three locations.
Battle lines are drawn with Dempsey in Omaha focused on the Old Market.
Smith, head of headquarter operations, sets out for Seattle or more appropriately Mountain View, and Adamo and Grimes, Atlanta. All are engaged for takedown, Seattle by drone, Omaha’s Old Market hits pink mist and the eyes swivel to Atlanta, the new home of Jack Dempsey’s former wife and son- and the Georgia Aquarium.
Every Special Ops worst nightmare is to discover family, or extended family ensnared in an operation. Atlanta is no different. As the seconds tick off the clock, did the team get there in time? Where is Dempsey’s family? Is the attack, destined to kill hundreds, stopped in time? What act of courage occurs? Why is Dempsey left in tears, sobbing, at the end?
This is an all-encompassing thriller, fast paced, clock ticking, big surprises, introducing new characters, engaging all the emotions from disgust, anger, terror, fear, and grief, with heart stopping action, and finishing with our protagonist sobbing.
What a superb novel,gentlemen, commanding one’s attention and emotions from start to finish. Plenty of action, fight scenes and assaults, armament use, a constant moving plot, with roller coaster ups and downs, engaging fully, the readers’ emotions. You can’t wait to get your hands on the next chapter and verse. A big 5* to WAR SHADOWS and so pleased I discovered you.
Julie Watson
Andrews&Wilson’s initial book,TIER ONE, introduces you to SEAL team leader Jack Kemper, warrior in the Tier One SEAL team, who finds himself an injured survivor of the ambush/massacre of Tier One SEALs at a sesspool called AL Qa’im in the Wild West of western Iraq. Lured by the intell knowledge it could be the focal point of taking out the world’s worst terrorists in the Middle East.
A decision has been made,at the highest level,to create a specialized Tier One/CIA team with the capability to enact, with surgical precision, the immediate proactive execution of any threat requiring the elimination of red tape, bureaucratic procrastination, and ego-stroked politicos.EMBER becomes the go-to team for the takedown of dangerous Al-Qaeda and ISIS terrorist threats both domestic and overseas,utilizing speed, stealth, and efficiency.
Like a rising Phoenix,John Dempsey, aka Jack Kemper takes command of this assault team. But to do so, he must lose the life of Jack Kemper, leaving family and friends to grieve at an empty casket and become Jack Dempsey, the best of the best. Though time passes, one thought is always embedded in Dempsey’s mind - to trace, track down, and get Mahood bin Jabbar, aka Rafiq Al-Mahajer , the man who destroyed his life and that of friends and brothers. Dempsey finds it a hit and miss deal, and is not happy when Al-Mahajer slips out the back door again.
The heat is on, especially when AL-Mahajer pops back up, now linked to Iran and Hezbollah. The reader is introduced to Behrouz Rostami, a senior lieutenant to Iran’s VEVAK Director of Foreign Operations. Modiri is out for revenge due to Americans foiling his attack on the United Nations, and the killing of family. A multi-pronged attack is planned that brings this trinity of evil together in one plot and a direct attack on the United States.
Dempsey’s commanding officer/supervisor has a sharp,gifted mind, able to assess each possible alternative and outcome. Kelso Jarvis makes the decision to introduce a CIA officer into EMBER, an expert on hidden Iranian sleeper cells in the US,by the name of Simon Adamo. There is no great love of CIA operatives; they are viewed as a stumbling block in getting the job done.
The team does not work comfortably with one another at first, but step by step they manage to profile the sleeper cell and in an assault, determine that the Iran team is hooked up with Mexican cartel members to enter the US through a series of tunnels. The race to track these invaders is on and they are working against the clock.
With SEALs, known to Dempsey, added to the mix,Team EMBER sets out to track these terrorists to the US border, courtesy of Adamo’s specialized knowledge of terrorist cells. They are able to ascertain that it is a multi-pronged attack against Seattle, Atlanta and Omaha. The team is split between the three locations.
Battle lines are drawn with Dempsey in Omaha focused on the Old Market.
Smith, head of headquarter operations, sets out for Seattle or more appropriately Mountain View, and Adamo and Grimes, Atlanta. All are engaged for takedown, Seattle by drone, Omaha’s Old Market hits pink mist and the eyes swivel to Atlanta, the new home of Jack Dempsey’s former wife and son- and the Georgia Aquarium.
Every Special Ops worst nightmare is to discover family, or extended family ensnared in an operation. Atlanta is no different. As the seconds tick off the clock, did the team get there in time? Where is Dempsey’s family? Is the attack, destined to kill hundreds, stopped in time? What act of courage occurs? Why is Dempsey left in tears, sobbing, at the end?
This is an all-encompassing thriller, fast paced, clock ticking, big surprises, introducing new characters, engaging all the emotions from disgust, anger, terror, fear, and grief, with heart stopping action, and finishing with our protagonist sobbing.
What a superb novel,gentlemen, commanding one’s attention and emotions from start to finish. Plenty of action, fight scenes and assaults, armament use, a constant moving plot, with roller coaster ups and downs, engaging fully, the readers’ emotions. You can’t wait to get your hands on the next chapter and verse. A big 5* to WAR SHADOWS and so pleased I discovered you.
Julie Watson
January 9, 2020
I really, really like John Dempsey.
This second book in the Tier One series follows John and Ember Group as they track down a specific terrorist who's responsible for the loss of many, many lives. There's strategy, internal leadership strife, the loss of soldiers we've come to know and appreciate. John gets pretty banged up.
I appreciated the sense of reality I get from this story. This feels a lot more honest, with the limitations and challenges that fighting terrorism in the real world entails. It feels like it's been written by someone who knows what he's talking about. I believe it.
But obviously, it's fiction. The ending was meant to be very suspenseful and it was. I always knew the worst possible thing wouldn't happen - but I had my doubts about the next-to-worst possible thing. And the little plot twist that Andrews and Wilson threw in was a nice touch.
I really like this series. At this point, I'm invested and can't wait to see how it plays out. Apparently it's structured to be a set of trilogies, where one bad guy takes 3 books to defeat. Currently there are one and ⅔ trilogies completed, so I'm happy that there's a lot more John Dempsey to look forward to.
I'd be remiss not to mention just how amazing Ray Porter is as a narrator. I don't think I'd ever have picked up this series if he hadn't been narrating.
This second book in the Tier One series follows John and Ember Group as they track down a specific terrorist who's responsible for the loss of many, many lives. There's strategy, internal leadership strife, the loss of soldiers we've come to know and appreciate. John gets pretty banged up.
I appreciated the sense of reality I get from this story. This feels a lot more honest, with the limitations and challenges that fighting terrorism in the real world entails. It feels like it's been written by someone who knows what he's talking about. I believe it.
But obviously, it's fiction. The ending was meant to be very suspenseful and it was. I always knew the worst possible thing wouldn't happen - but I had my doubts about the next-to-worst possible thing. And the little plot twist that Andrews and Wilson threw in was a nice touch.
I really like this series. At this point, I'm invested and can't wait to see how it plays out. Apparently it's structured to be a set of trilogies, where one bad guy takes 3 books to defeat. Currently there are one and ⅔ trilogies completed, so I'm happy that there's a lot more John Dempsey to look forward to.
I'd be remiss not to mention just how amazing Ray Porter is as a narrator. I don't think I'd ever have picked up this series if he hadn't been narrating.
February 10, 2017
See this review and more at www.TheRealBookSpy.com
For their latest Tier One thriller, the co-writing team of Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson pull readers inside the world of black ops for their most explosive story yet.
John Dempsey is a former Navy SEAL who traded in his old life and identity to become part of Ember, an elite counterterrorism unit funded through the Department of Defense. His family and friends all believe he was killed during a mission years ago, freeing him up to operate in the shadows–where the bad guys live.
While giving up his old life was a costly personal decision for Dempsey, who left behind a loving family, it’s a sacrifice he was willing to make to keep America safe.
A decade ago, when he was still known as Jack Kemper (and a Navy SEAL), Dempsey led a team of commandos into a remote Iraqi compound. Their target was a mid-level Al-Qaeda member named Mahmood Bin Jabbar, and they nearly nabbed him. But things took a wrong turn and went south in a hurry. One of Dempsey’s men got killed, and Bin Jabbar slipped away into the darkness.
Now, ten years later, Mahmood Bin Jabbar just stepped back into the light–and Dempsey is chomping at the bit to take another run at him. However, like last time, getting close to the terrorist mastermind will be easier said than done.
Ember intelligence reports indicate Mahmood Bin Jabbar is surfacing long enough to meet with another terrorist organization near Al-Qa’im. While not much is known about his whereabouts from the last ten years, Bin Jabbar now holds a leadership position in ISIS, and it’s believed the meeting is to coordinate on an attack plan already in the works.
While Dempsey is out for blood, hellbent on settling the score from the last time he went after Bin Jabbar, his number-one objective is to learn more about what the terrorists are planning so they can be stopped. But like last time, Mahmood Bin Jabbar isn’t about to go quietly or without a fight.
After things once again take a shocking turn, Dempsey finds himself on a new globetrotting mission, racing against the clock to stop a series of carefully plotted attacks before it’s too late.
Partners and teams are the new ‘it thing’ right now. Lots of thriller authors are pairing up characters, and even longtime series protagonists who are known for working alone are getting sidekicks. While Dempsey is the star here, all the individual operators shine as a unit. The banter and side joking during missions will make readers feel like they’re shadowing the unit on a ride-along,
The banter and side joking during missions will make readers feel like they’re shadowing the special ops units on a ride-along. Not only does this style work well, it’s a real strength of the authors’ storytelling ability and will help readers get lost in the adventure.
What Andrews and Wilson are doing with this series is unlike anything else currently in print right now. While each book stands on its own, as far as having an authentic plot that readers can jump into, their series is built around one central story arc. Not everything is neatly tidied up in four hundred pages, and the good guys don’t always pitch a perfect game. Instead, each novel shows a different battle within the overall war–a concept that has so far been brilliantly choreographed.
Andrews and Wilson continue to fire on all cylinders, impressing once again with War Shadows, the latest high-voltage entry in their gritty military thriller franchise.
Book Details
Authors: Brian Andrews & Jeffrey Wilson
Series: Tier One #2
Pages: 398 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 1503942031
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Release Date: February 21, 2017
Order Now: http://amzn.to/2jJKRkG
For their latest Tier One thriller, the co-writing team of Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson pull readers inside the world of black ops for their most explosive story yet.
John Dempsey is a former Navy SEAL who traded in his old life and identity to become part of Ember, an elite counterterrorism unit funded through the Department of Defense. His family and friends all believe he was killed during a mission years ago, freeing him up to operate in the shadows–where the bad guys live.
While giving up his old life was a costly personal decision for Dempsey, who left behind a loving family, it’s a sacrifice he was willing to make to keep America safe.
A decade ago, when he was still known as Jack Kemper (and a Navy SEAL), Dempsey led a team of commandos into a remote Iraqi compound. Their target was a mid-level Al-Qaeda member named Mahmood Bin Jabbar, and they nearly nabbed him. But things took a wrong turn and went south in a hurry. One of Dempsey’s men got killed, and Bin Jabbar slipped away into the darkness.
Now, ten years later, Mahmood Bin Jabbar just stepped back into the light–and Dempsey is chomping at the bit to take another run at him. However, like last time, getting close to the terrorist mastermind will be easier said than done.
Ember intelligence reports indicate Mahmood Bin Jabbar is surfacing long enough to meet with another terrorist organization near Al-Qa’im. While not much is known about his whereabouts from the last ten years, Bin Jabbar now holds a leadership position in ISIS, and it’s believed the meeting is to coordinate on an attack plan already in the works.
While Dempsey is out for blood, hellbent on settling the score from the last time he went after Bin Jabbar, his number-one objective is to learn more about what the terrorists are planning so they can be stopped. But like last time, Mahmood Bin Jabbar isn’t about to go quietly or without a fight.
After things once again take a shocking turn, Dempsey finds himself on a new globetrotting mission, racing against the clock to stop a series of carefully plotted attacks before it’s too late.
Partners and teams are the new ‘it thing’ right now. Lots of thriller authors are pairing up characters, and even longtime series protagonists who are known for working alone are getting sidekicks. While Dempsey is the star here, all the individual operators shine as a unit. The banter and side joking during missions will make readers feel like they’re shadowing the unit on a ride-along,
The banter and side joking during missions will make readers feel like they’re shadowing the special ops units on a ride-along. Not only does this style work well, it’s a real strength of the authors’ storytelling ability and will help readers get lost in the adventure.
What Andrews and Wilson are doing with this series is unlike anything else currently in print right now. While each book stands on its own, as far as having an authentic plot that readers can jump into, their series is built around one central story arc. Not everything is neatly tidied up in four hundred pages, and the good guys don’t always pitch a perfect game. Instead, each novel shows a different battle within the overall war–a concept that has so far been brilliantly choreographed.
Andrews and Wilson continue to fire on all cylinders, impressing once again with War Shadows, the latest high-voltage entry in their gritty military thriller franchise.
Book Details
Authors: Brian Andrews & Jeffrey Wilson
Series: Tier One #2
Pages: 398 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 1503942031
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Release Date: February 21, 2017
Order Now: http://amzn.to/2jJKRkG
January 28, 2021
Andrews and Wilson really upped their game on this 2nd book on the series. Non-stop edge of your seat action and intrigue!! I loved getting to know Dempsey and Lady Grimes better and dig deeper into their psyche. Dempsey is on the hunt for his nemesis who has gotten away more times than Dempsey would like. He needs to find the Isis commander before another attack happens. Highly recommend this book and cannot wait to get the next one in the series!!
September 10, 2021
To all out there that thought the first book in this series was hard getting through. Don't give up, read at least this one as well before you give up. War Shadows by Jeffeey Wilson and Brian Andrews the second book about ex navy seal Jack Kemper now John Dempsey is so much better that I'm glad I kept reading these. I will go on reading this series and try some of the other ones from this duo of great authors. The flow in this story and the action is wonderful, I also got to learn of a new way to use smart watches and why it's good to know cpr.
February 22, 2017
WAR SHADOWS:
I RECEIVED A NETGALLERY ARC COPY FREE IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
A solid, easy read that while not reinventing the wheel is a very topical military thriller focusing on one of the less covered geopolitical dangers of our time. Featuring a unit that may or may not exist hunting and killing agents of the most hostile foreign powers on earth as said agents scheme to terrorize the west. While the potential is there, more refinement would be needed to remove the rough edges in the story. Nonetheless, if you're at an airport or on the beach, War Shadows would provide the perfect distraction to keep you from dying of boredom.
I RECEIVED A NETGALLERY ARC COPY FREE IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
A solid, easy read that while not reinventing the wheel is a very topical military thriller focusing on one of the less covered geopolitical dangers of our time. Featuring a unit that may or may not exist hunting and killing agents of the most hostile foreign powers on earth as said agents scheme to terrorize the west. While the potential is there, more refinement would be needed to remove the rough edges in the story. Nonetheless, if you're at an airport or on the beach, War Shadows would provide the perfect distraction to keep you from dying of boredom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2021
I really was not a fan of the first book "Tier One" in this series. I thought it moved slow, not much character growth, and a cliche plot. I knew I was going to read the second in the series after hearing rave reviews of it. I found this book a polar opposite. Amazingly fast-paced, exciting, a plot that puts reality to the test.
I will definitely be reading the rest of the series now. This book is fantastic.
I will definitely be reading the rest of the series now. This book is fantastic.
July 24, 2020
Exciting- yes. Predictable- yes. Some parts a little out there- but of course. Protagonist with a soft spot for family. We’ve all been there are are there. A fun read nevertheless.
June 12, 2019
Mini-Review:
4 Stars for Narration by Ray Porter
3.5 Stars for Story, Round up to 4 for Solid Wrapup
The first book was okay but it had lopsided pacing. This one was MUCH better! With most of the foundation for the main characters & setting in place, this book was a breeze to follow. Good action, okay plot & a few characters to really get into and cheer from the sidelines.
4 Stars for Narration by Ray Porter
3.5 Stars for Story, Round up to 4 for Solid Wrapup
The first book was okay but it had lopsided pacing. This one was MUCH better! With most of the foundation for the main characters & setting in place, this book was a breeze to follow. Good action, okay plot & a few characters to really get into and cheer from the sidelines.
January 16, 2023
After I caught up on all the Brad Taylor books I've been looking for a military spy thriller series to audiobook. I listened to the first in this series last year and thought it was just ok. Book 2 was definitely an improvement as it doesn't have to do as much set up for Dempsey's character and the Ember organization. I'll be continuing.
December 28, 2018
00-Dempsey-Spy
Wow! Book number 2 was better than the first! Dempsey is gelling with his team and turning into a killer spy. There is awesome humor in this one and epic action scenes to keep your heart rate in the red. You don’t want to miss this one, guys!
Wow! Book number 2 was better than the first! Dempsey is gelling with his team and turning into a killer spy. There is awesome humor in this one and epic action scenes to keep your heart rate in the red. You don’t want to miss this one, guys!
October 26, 2017
Loved it!
Inhaled it - couldn’t put it down! Read it all one evening, and loved it. Love the haunted sweetness and sorrows of John Dempsey as he morphs into one massive missive of might fighting the good fight and taking the bad guys down, and oh my can he!! Didn’t delve much into the team personalities as much this time, not that you don’t know who the players are, but this is more of a book about an issue that is happening and Dempsey and the team handling it - as they do so very, very well!
Inhaled it - couldn’t put it down! Read it all one evening, and loved it. Love the haunted sweetness and sorrows of John Dempsey as he morphs into one massive missive of might fighting the good fight and taking the bad guys down, and oh my can he!! Didn’t delve much into the team personalities as much this time, not that you don’t know who the players are, but this is more of a book about an issue that is happening and Dempsey and the team handling it - as they do so very, very well!
March 26, 2019
Outstanding!
This is the second book in the series I’ve read and they just keep getting better. John Dempsey is an absolutely fabulous hero. I’m going to start book 3 right now!
This is the second book in the series I’ve read and they just keep getting better. John Dempsey is an absolutely fabulous hero. I’m going to start book 3 right now!
March 12, 2022
Another well done, face paced read.
While some of the situations are a little far fetched, the description of tactics and equipment are spot on.
Andrews and Wilson also set up the next book really well.
While some of the situations are a little far fetched, the description of tactics and equipment are spot on.
Andrews and Wilson also set up the next book really well.
June 25, 2020
action packed story of terrorists of different organizations joining hands to attack America and how the protagonist foils the plan.... the climax was heart pounding with a brain dead terrorist still posing a considerable risk ...
September 23, 2017
Best series in a long time
The characters are likeable and retired to character in every respect. All idiosyncrasies are carried from chapter to chapter and book to book. You learn to love not just individuals, but the whole damn team. The authors are legitimate seals and are familiar with routines, acronyms, and and all the politics that come with the job. Everything is true to form and the suspense starts and never stops. I have to wait until December for the final installment. That will seem like forever
The characters are likeable and retired to character in every respect. All idiosyncrasies are carried from chapter to chapter and book to book. You learn to love not just individuals, but the whole damn team. The authors are legitimate seals and are familiar with routines, acronyms, and and all the politics that come with the job. Everything is true to form and the suspense starts and never stops. I have to wait until December for the final installment. That will seem like forever
November 16, 2019
Jumping into War Shadows with high expectations, I was pleasantly surprised to find War Shadows not only on par with the first novel in the series, Tier One, but in fact even better than Tier One, which is no small feat to accomplish. War Shadows is a fantastic blend of realistic action sequences and thrilling storyline with strong engaging protagonists that keeps you hooked till the very sentence on the last page.
War Shadows picks up after the events of Tier One, following John Dempsey and The Ember team facing the threat of a devastating terrorist attack on American soil. With the team up against an elusive and cunning antagonist, this fast-paced time bound narrative is filled with nail biting twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat. The narrative is also pushed forward with strong and effective character foundations of John Dempsey and Ember team members. With natural interactions and dialogues, the team feels relatable for readers to get attached to. Complimenting the characters and the fast-paced storyline, comes the realistic and adrenaline pumping action sequences.
There is no doubt that the authors are proficient at writing captivating action sequences with accurate technical details pertaining to tactics and weaponry. With every shot out of Dempsey’s Sig556 rifle with holographic sight, I was hooked in even deeper. The firefights and combat gave a distinct vibe of a grounded, yet cinematic experience. The action itself is complimented by the espionage theme of the book. The novel further explores the transition of Dempsey from a SEAL to an Ember operative, showing how his mind operates differently in situations, becoming more of a tactician and shadow operative.
I was already a huge fan of the authors after reading Tier One, but this superb action thriller definitely cements my devotion to the Tier One series. I highly recommend this action-thriller for readers looking for a thrilling fast paced ride that will keep them glued to the book at the edge of their seats. Looking forward to reading the third book in the series. Hats off to the authors for creating such an enthralling world of operatives, risking their lives for the moral good.
War Shadows picks up after the events of Tier One, following John Dempsey and The Ember team facing the threat of a devastating terrorist attack on American soil. With the team up against an elusive and cunning antagonist, this fast-paced time bound narrative is filled with nail biting twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat. The narrative is also pushed forward with strong and effective character foundations of John Dempsey and Ember team members. With natural interactions and dialogues, the team feels relatable for readers to get attached to. Complimenting the characters and the fast-paced storyline, comes the realistic and adrenaline pumping action sequences.
There is no doubt that the authors are proficient at writing captivating action sequences with accurate technical details pertaining to tactics and weaponry. With every shot out of Dempsey’s Sig556 rifle with holographic sight, I was hooked in even deeper. The firefights and combat gave a distinct vibe of a grounded, yet cinematic experience. The action itself is complimented by the espionage theme of the book. The novel further explores the transition of Dempsey from a SEAL to an Ember operative, showing how his mind operates differently in situations, becoming more of a tactician and shadow operative.
I was already a huge fan of the authors after reading Tier One, but this superb action thriller definitely cements my devotion to the Tier One series. I highly recommend this action-thriller for readers looking for a thrilling fast paced ride that will keep them glued to the book at the edge of their seats. Looking forward to reading the third book in the series. Hats off to the authors for creating such an enthralling world of operatives, risking their lives for the moral good.
January 12, 2017
John Dempsey has left his old life behind with a little change to his features and his wife & son thinking he is dead. Hard to do but he is completely devoted to finding the bad guys and getting rid of them if at all possible. The "off the books" group works with others when necessary but for the most part his group sets the rules of engagement. He has been hunting the same guy since his other life and finally getting close. They are chasing this guy through Europe and Guatemala and then to the United States. Can they find what is happening in time?
July 27, 2024
Much better than the first book. Dempsey and Ember group are after a Syrian ISIS commander who has haunted his dreams since a failed mission years earlier.
Little does he and the team know the Syrian is working with the Iranian bad guy from the previous book and their mission is going to hit close to home.
Very well written and the authors are quite well versed in the subject matter due to their backgrounds.
Little does he and the team know the Syrian is working with the Iranian bad guy from the previous book and their mission is going to hit close to home.
Very well written and the authors are quite well versed in the subject matter due to their backgrounds.
February 24, 2023
I can’t believe I waited so long to start this series
March 1, 2017
Ever since I read
Tier One
[review] I was looking forward to a sequel. Actually, even before I finished it I was looking forward to a sequel! It was that good.
And then I saw War Shadows could be preordered on Audible! [US/UK]
I've never preordered anything from Audible before. Mostly due to bad experiences with games. Many people would place a preorder, developers get tons of money and then lay back, kick their feet up, miss all the deadlines and release some utter garbage. So no, no preorders on games anymore. If it's well reviewed, gameplay solid and generally doesn't suck - then I'll get it.
Good thing is that it doesn't work that way with books. There's something called reputation. While big game development companies and game publishers mostly couldn't care less about reputation and are only after your money, with writers and book publishers it's a very different situation. They actually care about end product and how people perceive it. I guess this perspective gets easily lost when you're in a multi-billion dollar industry.
So, we're used to trusting our favorite writers, narrators and publishers. Rarely would they do something to disappoint us.
And here we have an awesome trio. Three guys responsible for Tier One series' success - Writers Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson and a narrator Ray Porter. I learned to trust these guys by now, and based on their reputation plus rock-solid 5* material that first book was - I preordered.
First time ever, and I was not disappointed. Not in the least.
Actually, I couldn't wait for the release date! I was hyped up like a little girl and gave Audible servers a heart attack by refreshing like a lunatic fresh out of prescription drugs.
This book is some 30 minutes shorter than the first part. 11 hours of goodness in total. Actual number of pages is very close I believe, around 400.
We're already introduced to the main protagonist, John Dempsey, a Navy SEAL and Tier One operator turned spook . Yep, with his old life and name gone Dempsey had to learn new tricks of the undercover agent trade.
Brian and Jeffrey wrote a very believable and realistic story. And Ray delivered it like a New Year's present. You really can't be sure what's going to happen next.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a Game of Thrones.
But considering how danger is ever-present you will certainly be surprised. There will be unexpected twists and turns just like in the first book. And due to the clever way writers approached the storytelling - you don't get to know things in front or see glimpses of the future. Hell, even if you try to guess it will probably turn out wrong :)
Suspense alone makes it a very enjoyable read.
You're definitely going to laugh with the characters here, and some may even cry. I had my fair share of goosebumps and loved every second of it.
Yet again, rock-solid 5*.
Recommendation-wise, I will go the same way as with the first book. If you are a fan of military, anti-terrorist, special-ops thrillers - you're going to have a blast!
And then I saw War Shadows could be preordered on Audible! [US/UK]
I've never preordered anything from Audible before. Mostly due to bad experiences with games. Many people would place a preorder, developers get tons of money and then lay back, kick their feet up, miss all the deadlines and release some utter garbage. So no, no preorders on games anymore. If it's well reviewed, gameplay solid and generally doesn't suck - then I'll get it.
Good thing is that it doesn't work that way with books. There's something called reputation. While big game development companies and game publishers mostly couldn't care less about reputation and are only after your money, with writers and book publishers it's a very different situation. They actually care about end product and how people perceive it. I guess this perspective gets easily lost when you're in a multi-billion dollar industry.
So, we're used to trusting our favorite writers, narrators and publishers. Rarely would they do something to disappoint us.
And here we have an awesome trio. Three guys responsible for Tier One series' success - Writers Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson and a narrator Ray Porter. I learned to trust these guys by now, and based on their reputation plus rock-solid 5* material that first book was - I preordered.
First time ever, and I was not disappointed. Not in the least.
Actually, I couldn't wait for the release date! I was hyped up like a little girl and gave Audible servers a heart attack by refreshing like a lunatic fresh out of prescription drugs.
This book is some 30 minutes shorter than the first part. 11 hours of goodness in total. Actual number of pages is very close I believe, around 400.
We're already introduced to the main protagonist, John Dempsey, a Navy SEAL and Tier One operator turned spook . Yep, with his old life and name gone Dempsey had to learn new tricks of the undercover agent trade.
Brian and Jeffrey wrote a very believable and realistic story. And Ray delivered it like a New Year's present. You really can't be sure what's going to happen next.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a Game of Thrones.
But considering how danger is ever-present you will certainly be surprised. There will be unexpected twists and turns just like in the first book. And due to the clever way writers approached the storytelling - you don't get to know things in front or see glimpses of the future. Hell, even if you try to guess it will probably turn out wrong :)
Suspense alone makes it a very enjoyable read.
You're definitely going to laugh with the characters here, and some may even cry. I had my fair share of goosebumps and loved every second of it.
Yet again, rock-solid 5*.
Recommendation-wise, I will go the same way as with the first book. If you are a fan of military, anti-terrorist, special-ops thrillers - you're going to have a blast!
July 28, 2017
“War Shadows” eBook was published in 2017 and was written by Jeffrey Wilson and Brian Andrews (http://www.andrews-wilson.com). Together they have published four novels. In addition Mr. Wilson has published one novel on his own, and Mr. Andrews two. This is the second novel in their “Tier One” series.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The novel is set in our contemporary world. The primary character is John Dempsey, who in his former life was a US Navy SEAL.
Dempsey, in his new life, is now a Tier One operator. Part of a very clandestine organization intended to do what it takes to keep America safe. He, and his team, are involved in stopping terrorists that are trying to infiltrate the US and then cause a distributed, but coordinated attack.
Dempsey and his team are on their trail, but always seem to be one step behind. It becomes a race to see if they will be able to stop the terrorists before they can carry out their plan to kill and wound as many as possible.
I enjoyed the just shy of 9 hours I spent reading this 400 page Thriller. I liked the plot and the characters. While I have read the prior book in the series, this one reads well on its own. The cover art is OK as it depicts part of the pursuit in tunnels. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The novel is set in our contemporary world. The primary character is John Dempsey, who in his former life was a US Navy SEAL.
Dempsey, in his new life, is now a Tier One operator. Part of a very clandestine organization intended to do what it takes to keep America safe. He, and his team, are involved in stopping terrorists that are trying to infiltrate the US and then cause a distributed, but coordinated attack.
Dempsey and his team are on their trail, but always seem to be one step behind. It becomes a race to see if they will be able to stop the terrorists before they can carry out their plan to kill and wound as many as possible.
I enjoyed the just shy of 9 hours I spent reading this 400 page Thriller. I liked the plot and the characters. While I have read the prior book in the series, this one reads well on its own. The cover art is OK as it depicts part of the pursuit in tunnels. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
November 18, 2020
This is an excellent thriller, the second in the Tier One series, about a secret government organization that is a counter terrorism fighting force. They are staffed with former military special ops personnel, who now have a freer hand to confront terrorist with less rules of engagement restrictions. That doesn’t mean they shoot first and ask questions later. They are not charged with building a case for prosecution. They are charged with preventing terrorist plots from killing civilians. John Dempsey, a former SEAL, is the primary character, and all characters are well developed, three dimensional personnel. They are not stereotyped warriors. They think and feel and behave with all the human characteristics and frailties. But they are still type A people who are dedicated warriors in the counter terrorism world. Plenty of thrills, suspense and action in this story. None of it is too far-fetched not to seem plausible. Although I do wonder if the technical skills and abilities of the team is all real. If it is real, wow! Those skill sets really are remarkable and fascinating.
December 13, 2021
They did it again. This book rocks.
I really appreciated how aggressive the conflict within the Ember team could get this time around with the inclusion of Adamo especially. They really make you irritated by him but I appreciate the development they gave him as the story went on. There was a decent amount of strong drama this time around, particularly in the final pages, that really caught me off guard. Also, I loved seeing the way Chunk was introduced here, considering I started my first foray into this series with Sons of Valor. I love Chunk so much and I’m so glad he had a decent role in this. His chemistry with Dempsey is great and had me laughing quite a bit.
Andrews and Wilson continue to deliver fantastically mounted action scenes that feel so scorching and aggressive. I continuously found myself white knuckled while these sequences played out.
I can’t wait to pick up the next book. I’m legitimately hooked on this series. Amazon series or movie adaptation please?
I really appreciated how aggressive the conflict within the Ember team could get this time around with the inclusion of Adamo especially. They really make you irritated by him but I appreciate the development they gave him as the story went on. There was a decent amount of strong drama this time around, particularly in the final pages, that really caught me off guard. Also, I loved seeing the way Chunk was introduced here, considering I started my first foray into this series with Sons of Valor. I love Chunk so much and I’m so glad he had a decent role in this. His chemistry with Dempsey is great and had me laughing quite a bit.
Andrews and Wilson continue to deliver fantastically mounted action scenes that feel so scorching and aggressive. I continuously found myself white knuckled while these sequences played out.
I can’t wait to pick up the next book. I’m legitimately hooked on this series. Amazon series or movie adaptation please?
March 26, 2017
I really like this book, and fully acknoledge thawt my wife recommended the TIER ONE series to me. This book is very hard to put down. I read it in 3 days including a weekend. This author duo is equal to the most popular of the military adventure fiction genre, incluing Vince Flynn, Mrak Greaney, Tim Tigner, Brian Haig, and Brad Thor. Great plot and the bad guys are REALLY bad guys, and the good guys. The "chase" seems very realistic, and the actions to "tag" and eliminate the bad guys is also very plausible. The terrorists in Book Two are literally attacking the heartland of America, and multiple targets simultaneously. The heroes are definitely "larger than life" but also NOT invinceable. The books presents an all-too-believable of foreign terrorists linking up with cells living "quietly" in the US waiting to strike on command. The plot moves quickly. And it doesn't hurt that a former SF Special Forces medic "saves the day" The terrorists are just as motivated and determined as the Tier One operators on a mission to stop them. The characters are very real and believable - complex, loyal, expert, and well-trained and brutally efficient. Hard to wait for Tier One #3.
May 31, 2017
I absolutely could not wait for this book to release. I read Tier One and that set the tone for me, making me really despise having to wait for the release of this one. John Dempsey, or Jack Kemper, whoever you want to call him doesn't have super powers but he has a past! A past that causes him pain and trouble and fear. It is one that leaves him disconnected from his former self and he uses his new unique identity to keep America safe! In this sequel to Tier One he uses his new team to continue the fight in finding bad guys and punishing them! He battles everything from helicopter crashes and gun battles to keep on keeping on!
October 29, 2017
This is the 2nd in the Tier One series and I started this immediately after the 1st. Just as the prior book, I really enjoyed it. It’s escapist reading for me, and I admire the brave men and women of the military (even if it’s fiction).
This episode starts out with John Dempsey’s helicopter being shot down while on black op in ISIS controlled Iraq, injuring SEALs, and their captive. HOLY COW! And it only gets better. The premise of the plot is SCARY! ISIS, Hezbollah, and the Mujahedeen work together with the Los Zetas cartel to infiltrate the US using nacro tunnels.
In the best traditions of the genera, Dempsey and his compatriots are “... a tribe of NOC using, gun shooting, foul mouth talking, terrorist chasing, hot blooded American 30 somethings.” The authors – Andrews & Wilson (Do they sound like pseudonyms or is it just me?) – write in a manner that seems very authentic (but, what do I know) and celebrate the courage of the military. It’s a real page-turned with a great ending. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
This episode starts out with John Dempsey’s helicopter being shot down while on black op in ISIS controlled Iraq, injuring SEALs, and their captive. HOLY COW! And it only gets better. The premise of the plot is SCARY! ISIS, Hezbollah, and the Mujahedeen work together with the Los Zetas cartel to infiltrate the US using nacro tunnels.
In the best traditions of the genera, Dempsey and his compatriots are “... a tribe of NOC using, gun shooting, foul mouth talking, terrorist chasing, hot blooded American 30 somethings.” The authors – Andrews & Wilson (Do they sound like pseudonyms or is it just me?) – write in a manner that seems very authentic (but, what do I know) and celebrate the courage of the military. It’s a real page-turned with a great ending. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
September 10, 2020
4.4 really
Book 2 is really better than the first book. i like how this book went internationally or Central America-ish. Then returns home for the final arc of the book. Dempsey and the team need to race with time and be precise to stop another attack. There were also great surprises near the end with an offspring of one of the characters. Which i hope gets more time in the future with a time jump. The action was good. The Cat and Mouse game between the good guys and bad guys was good too. Just an overall solid book 2. Can't wait to read the third book.
Book 2 is really better than the first book. i like how this book went internationally or Central America-ish. Then returns home for the final arc of the book. Dempsey and the team need to race with time and be precise to stop another attack. There were also great surprises near the end with an offspring of one of the characters. Which i hope gets more time in the future with a time jump. The action was good. The Cat and Mouse game between the good guys and bad guys was good too. Just an overall solid book 2. Can't wait to read the third book.
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