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Jack Widow #4
Without Measure
#1 AMAZON BESTSELLER - Scott Blade comes the fourth thriller in the Jack Widow series. This one has an unbelievable twist!
Jack Widow used to be an NCIS agent, undercover with the Navy SEALs. He's not that guy anymore. Now he's a drifter.
After a long night trying to sleep in the cab of a truck--hauling bullets, of all things--Jack Widow gives up trying to catch some sleep. He gets out at the next stop, a small town in the northeast corner of California with two industries: a small arms manufacturer and a Marine base on the verge of being forgotten.
Jack Widow stops in a diner to drink coffee in peace, but a Marine seated at another booth gives off signs that bother him deep down in his cop bones.
Widow tries to talk to the Marine, but he doesn't want to talk.
Afterward, Widow finishes his coffee and leaves the diner to find a motel bed to sleep on. By the time his head hits the pillow, the military police show up, banging on his door. They've got questions and handcuffs.
They want to know why he was seen talking to the Marine officer. They want to know who Widow is and what was said. They want to know why, after Widow sat with him, the Marine went back to his base and shot and killed five Marines, before shooting himself dead.
In a year with tensions high regarding Muslim extremists, gun control, and police culture, the cops think that it's obvious that Marine Officer James Muhammad Turik was part of an ISIS cell.
Some local townspeople want to blame Muslims. The politicians want to blame guns. The outside media only care about the headlines.
Jack Widow wants to find the truth.
In his fourth explosive thriller, Jack Widow digs deep under the surface to uncover the truth. As he turns over rocks, he finds dark secrets crawling underneath.
JACK WIDOW Book Series in order:
GONE FOREVER #1
WINTER TERRITORY #2
A REASON TO KILL #3
WITHOUT MEASURE #4
ONCE QUIET #5
NAME NOT GIVEN #6
THE MIDNIGHT CALLER #7
FIRE WATCH #8
Jack Widow used to be an NCIS agent, undercover with the Navy SEALs. He's not that guy anymore. Now he's a drifter.
After a long night trying to sleep in the cab of a truck--hauling bullets, of all things--Jack Widow gives up trying to catch some sleep. He gets out at the next stop, a small town in the northeast corner of California with two industries: a small arms manufacturer and a Marine base on the verge of being forgotten.
Jack Widow stops in a diner to drink coffee in peace, but a Marine seated at another booth gives off signs that bother him deep down in his cop bones.
Widow tries to talk to the Marine, but he doesn't want to talk.
Afterward, Widow finishes his coffee and leaves the diner to find a motel bed to sleep on. By the time his head hits the pillow, the military police show up, banging on his door. They've got questions and handcuffs.
They want to know why he was seen talking to the Marine officer. They want to know who Widow is and what was said. They want to know why, after Widow sat with him, the Marine went back to his base and shot and killed five Marines, before shooting himself dead.
In a year with tensions high regarding Muslim extremists, gun control, and police culture, the cops think that it's obvious that Marine Officer James Muhammad Turik was part of an ISIS cell.
Some local townspeople want to blame Muslims. The politicians want to blame guns. The outside media only care about the headlines.
Jack Widow wants to find the truth.
In his fourth explosive thriller, Jack Widow digs deep under the surface to uncover the truth. As he turns over rocks, he finds dark secrets crawling underneath.
JACK WIDOW Book Series in order:
GONE FOREVER #1
WINTER TERRITORY #2
A REASON TO KILL #3
WITHOUT MEASURE #4
ONCE QUIET #5
NAME NOT GIVEN #6
THE MIDNIGHT CALLER #7
FIRE WATCH #8
318 pages, ebook
First published February 20, 2017
About the author
Scott Blade
44 books326 followersUSA TODAY and AMAZON BESTSELLER - Scott Blade is a Nomadvelist, a drifter and author. He writes the bestselling Jack Widow book series, two of which reached the Top 100 list on Amazon, knocking Harry Potter & Jack Reacher off the top spots, which angered one of the big publishers. Scott wears that fact as a badge of honor.
Scott Blade isn't a traditional novelist who spends his time stuck behind a computer desk in some dreary office. He truly walks the walk. He drifts around like the nomad he writes about, touring the world, writing mysteries and searching for the perfect coffee.
Scott Blade isn't a traditional novelist who spends his time stuck behind a computer desk in some dreary office. He truly walks the walk. He drifts around like the nomad he writes about, touring the world, writing mysteries and searching for the perfect coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
June 20, 2026
Widow Takes Measure
A review of the Black Lion LLC eBook (February 20, 2017).
This one actually had a mystery element to it which enhanced the suspense. Widow has drifted into a one industry town nearby to a Marine training facility. While having breakfast, he notices a decorated Marine acting suspiciously at the diner. Using his own service record as a talking point, he tries to bond with the Marine, but fails to make a connection.
Later in the day he is arrested as the last known person seen talking to the Marine who had apparently gone on a shooting spree at the Marine base before committing suicide. After clearing his name with the Marine MPs, Widow joins them on the investigation.
After examining the scene and seeing the evidence, Widow is convinced that the suspect Marine was in fact innocent and was somehow setup. A far-reaching conspiracy is behind the murder spree and Widow won't rest until he has cleared the name of the dead Marine. Twists and reveals follow, before a final deadly showdown.
If Jack Widow is new to you, you might want to read my review of Gone Forever (Jack Widow #1 - 2016) at Son of a Reacher Man for an introduction to the character.
Trivia and Links
Author Scott Blade first introduced the character as Jack Cameron and presumably those books had many more Jack Reacher references and were likely subject to a copyright claim (This is my assumption, I did not research any of the legal history). Those books in the Jack Cameron series are now out of print and the character was revised as Jack Widow in a series which has now reached 22 novels (as of 2026). Unlike books #1 and #2 which were the same titles & plots in both series, along with #3 this book #4 branches off with a plot that is completely different from Nothing Left (2016 - Jack Cameron #4).
A review of the Black Lion LLC eBook (February 20, 2017).
“You checked me out. Is that right?”
He nodded.
I said, “Good. Then you probably saw a bunch of top-secret clearances and redacted information?”
He nodded.
“That means that I’m not a very nice person to have as an enemy.”
This one actually had a mystery element to it which enhanced the suspense. Widow has drifted into a one industry town nearby to a Marine training facility. While having breakfast, he notices a decorated Marine acting suspiciously at the diner. Using his own service record as a talking point, he tries to bond with the Marine, but fails to make a connection.
Later in the day he is arrested as the last known person seen talking to the Marine who had apparently gone on a shooting spree at the Marine base before committing suicide. After clearing his name with the Marine MPs, Widow joins them on the investigation.
After examining the scene and seeing the evidence, Widow is convinced that the suspect Marine was in fact innocent and was somehow setup. A far-reaching conspiracy is behind the murder spree and Widow won't rest until he has cleared the name of the dead Marine. Twists and reveals follow, before a final deadly showdown.
If Jack Widow is new to you, you might want to read my review of Gone Forever (Jack Widow #1 - 2016) at Son of a Reacher Man for an introduction to the character.
Trivia and Links
Author Scott Blade first introduced the character as Jack Cameron and presumably those books had many more Jack Reacher references and were likely subject to a copyright claim (This is my assumption, I did not research any of the legal history). Those books in the Jack Cameron series are now out of print and the character was revised as Jack Widow in a series which has now reached 22 novels (as of 2026). Unlike books #1 and #2 which were the same titles & plots in both series, along with #3 this book #4 branches off with a plot that is completely different from Nothing Left (2016 - Jack Cameron #4).
June 29, 2022
Standard operating procedure for Jack Widow, people get punched, bones get broken and there is some gun play. Bad guys have rough day. Lots of action.
August 21, 2021
finished this one yesterday 20 august 2021 part of a box set four through six i think good read fours stars really liked it kindle owned and the price was right.
March 30, 2017
Book 4 of the Jack Widow series.
If you're looking at this book then you've probably been along for the ride as Widow grows into his new lifestyle, that of a drifter. If this is the first book you're looking at in the series, then, by all means, feel free to pick this one up but you probably should pick up the first three as well.
That's the way I did it and just like Netflix, it's so satisfying to be able to binge on a series knowing that there's another one, except in this case it's the last one, for now.
This book was by far the tensest of the four, even though it may not have dealt with the biggest consequences, it does deal with a subject that is on most people's minds. Domestic terrorism. It confronts some of the issues in today's world where everyone seems in such a hurry to label and draw conclusions, long before the facts are in.
Widow's wondering ways have landed him smack dab in the middle of something many of us fear. A blue on blue attack. Even before the blood has dried, surety of guilt has been established and Widow finds himself rousted out of bed and rolled up as a suspect in an event that has national implications.
I think if Widow could have watched this from the sidelines like we readers do, he'd shake his head and say, "never let facts get in the way of a good story" but he doesn't have that luxury.
It soon becomes apparent that Widow maybe the only one looking at the facts and not the assumptions. Gaining the trust of the people he will need to right this wrong won't be easy. There's a lot of tension and a case like this makes or breaks careers.
A great story for a great series that just continues to get better and better. Do yourself a favor and click "BUY" and get started on another wild journey with the fascinatingly brutal justice that few can dish out like Jack Widow.
If you're looking at this book then you've probably been along for the ride as Widow grows into his new lifestyle, that of a drifter. If this is the first book you're looking at in the series, then, by all means, feel free to pick this one up but you probably should pick up the first three as well.
That's the way I did it and just like Netflix, it's so satisfying to be able to binge on a series knowing that there's another one, except in this case it's the last one, for now.
This book was by far the tensest of the four, even though it may not have dealt with the biggest consequences, it does deal with a subject that is on most people's minds. Domestic terrorism. It confronts some of the issues in today's world where everyone seems in such a hurry to label and draw conclusions, long before the facts are in.
Widow's wondering ways have landed him smack dab in the middle of something many of us fear. A blue on blue attack. Even before the blood has dried, surety of guilt has been established and Widow finds himself rousted out of bed and rolled up as a suspect in an event that has national implications.
I think if Widow could have watched this from the sidelines like we readers do, he'd shake his head and say, "never let facts get in the way of a good story" but he doesn't have that luxury.
It soon becomes apparent that Widow maybe the only one looking at the facts and not the assumptions. Gaining the trust of the people he will need to right this wrong won't be easy. There's a lot of tension and a case like this makes or breaks careers.
A great story for a great series that just continues to get better and better. Do yourself a favor and click "BUY" and get started on another wild journey with the fascinatingly brutal justice that few can dish out like Jack Widow.
April 12, 2020
Good plotting
Another shooting in the USA on a military base but all is not as it seems and as one layer is pulled back there is yet another one too. Widow is also becoming more interesting as the stories and events develop - there is an element of romance again but that is all it is.
Another shooting in the USA on a military base but all is not as it seems and as one layer is pulled back there is yet another one too. Widow is also becoming more interesting as the stories and events develop - there is an element of romance again but that is all it is.
May 10, 2020
About on par with the previous book in the series, WITHOUT MEASURE maintains the stronger plotting and editing, but isn't without faults. Typos and missing words do exist, and some of the plot elements could've been handled better. However, Widow is feeling more like his own man—kind of like a stupider, more violent Reacher who is hilariously out of the loop on current events—which is always appreciated. Eager to read the next one.
August 1, 2019
A lot to skim over here. Nothing special. Another Jack Reacher knockoff.
September 15, 2024
"Without Measure" by Scott Blade, narrated by Alan Phillip Ormond, is the fourth installment in the Jack Widow series. This audiobook, released in 2021, continues the thrilling adventures of Jack Widow, a former Navy SEAL and drifter who finds himself embroiled in dangerous situations wherever he goes. Blade's writing, combined with Ormond's narration, creates a gripping experience that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Plot Overview
The story kicks off with Jack Widow hitchhiking through a small California mountain town, seeking nothing more than a cup of coffee and some rest. However, his instincts as a former Navy SEAL kick in when he notices a suspicious man in the diner. This man, an Arabic Marine, later commits a shocking act of violence at a nearby Marine base, killing five people before taking his own life. The Military Police quickly zero in on Widow as their prime suspect, thrusting him into a complex web of intrigue and danger.
Widow's journey to clear his name and uncover the truth leads him deep into a terrorist network, revealing a plot that threatens national security. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, making it a quintessential thriller that fans of the genre will appreciate.
Character Development
Jack Widow is a compelling protagonist. His background as a Navy SEAL and his drifter lifestyle make him a unique character who operates outside the bounds of conventional law enforcement. Widow's sense of justice and his relentless pursuit of the truth drive the narrative forward. Blade does an excellent job of fleshing out Widow's character, making him both relatable and admirable.
The supporting characters are also well-developed. The Military Police officers, the townspeople, and the members of the terrorist network each have distinct personalities and motivations. This adds depth to the story and keeps the listener engaged.
Narration
Alan Phillip Ormond's narration is a standout aspect of this audiobook. His deep, resonant voice perfectly matches the tone of the story and the character of Jack Widow. Ormond's ability to convey tension, urgency, and emotion enhances the listening experience. His pacing is spot-on, and he skillfully differentiates between characters, making it easy for listeners to follow the dialogue and action.
Themes
"Without Measure" explores several themes, including justice, loyalty, and the impact of war on individuals. Widow's quest for justice is central to the story, and his loyalty to his country and his sense of duty are evident throughout. The book also delves into the psychological effects of war, both on those who serve and on the communities they return to. These themes add layers of complexity to the narrative and give listeners something to ponder long after the story ends.
Writing Style
Scott Blade's writing is crisp and engaging. He has a knack for creating vivid scenes and intense action sequences. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, and the plot is meticulously crafted. Blade's experience as a thriller writer shines through in this book, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
Overall Impressions
"Without Measure" is a thrilling addition to the Jack Widow series. It combines a compelling protagonist, a gripping plot, and excellent narration to create an audiobook that is hard to put down. Scott Blade's storytelling and Alan Phillip Ormond's narration make for a powerful combination that will leave listeners eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Plot Overview
The story kicks off with Jack Widow hitchhiking through a small California mountain town, seeking nothing more than a cup of coffee and some rest. However, his instincts as a former Navy SEAL kick in when he notices a suspicious man in the diner. This man, an Arabic Marine, later commits a shocking act of violence at a nearby Marine base, killing five people before taking his own life. The Military Police quickly zero in on Widow as their prime suspect, thrusting him into a complex web of intrigue and danger.
Widow's journey to clear his name and uncover the truth leads him deep into a terrorist network, revealing a plot that threatens national security. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, making it a quintessential thriller that fans of the genre will appreciate.
Character Development
Jack Widow is a compelling protagonist. His background as a Navy SEAL and his drifter lifestyle make him a unique character who operates outside the bounds of conventional law enforcement. Widow's sense of justice and his relentless pursuit of the truth drive the narrative forward. Blade does an excellent job of fleshing out Widow's character, making him both relatable and admirable.
The supporting characters are also well-developed. The Military Police officers, the townspeople, and the members of the terrorist network each have distinct personalities and motivations. This adds depth to the story and keeps the listener engaged.
Narration
Alan Phillip Ormond's narration is a standout aspect of this audiobook. His deep, resonant voice perfectly matches the tone of the story and the character of Jack Widow. Ormond's ability to convey tension, urgency, and emotion enhances the listening experience. His pacing is spot-on, and he skillfully differentiates between characters, making it easy for listeners to follow the dialogue and action.
Themes
"Without Measure" explores several themes, including justice, loyalty, and the impact of war on individuals. Widow's quest for justice is central to the story, and his loyalty to his country and his sense of duty are evident throughout. The book also delves into the psychological effects of war, both on those who serve and on the communities they return to. These themes add layers of complexity to the narrative and give listeners something to ponder long after the story ends.
Writing Style
Scott Blade's writing is crisp and engaging. He has a knack for creating vivid scenes and intense action sequences. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, and the plot is meticulously crafted. Blade's experience as a thriller writer shines through in this book, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
Overall Impressions
"Without Measure" is a thrilling addition to the Jack Widow series. It combines a compelling protagonist, a gripping plot, and excellent narration to create an audiobook that is hard to put down. Scott Blade's storytelling and Alan Phillip Ormond's narration make for a powerful combination that will leave listeners eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
December 21, 2022
This is the fourth book in Scott Blade’s Jack Widow series. For me at least, the books get better with each installment so far.
Jack Window is passing through a small California town, which so happens is also the home of a Marines training base and an ammunition manufacturer/distributor. As a sleep deprived Widow sits in a small diner enjoying his coffee, he notices a Marine sitting alone in a booth nearby. Something seems out of place with this Marine, so Widow goes over, introduces himself and tries to assess the situation by striking up a conversation. The Marine, James Turik, seems to be zoned out and really is not looking to engage in idle chit-chat. Before long, Turik gets up and leaves the diner and Widow goes back to his coffee.
Widow soon decides he needs to put his head on a pillow for a few hours, asks the waitress for the location of the nearest motel, and sets out to get himself some much needed sleep.
Well, as we know, where Widow goes, some sort of trouble is always following close by. Not more than a couple of hours into his slumber, Widow is jolted awake by heavy banging on his motel room door… seems the military police have tracked him down and want some answers. Now!
Why did he talk with the Marine in the diner? What did they discuss? How does he know the Marine?
Turns out that James Turik, the Marine from the diner, went directly from the diner to the base and shot and killed five Marines before turning the gun on himself. Oh boy. And seeing as Widows was the last person to talk with him before this all went down, the military police want answers. Widow is handcuffed, and taken to the base for further questioning.
This book has plenty of action. There is the obligatory hand-to-hand combat and lots of gun play too. Would not be a Jack Widow book without it. Right?
Much like the last book, the story was fairly fast paced and flowed quite nicely. My only complaint about the book was the rather quick conclusion and wrap up of the whole ordeal.
I look forward to reading more from this series in the near future.
Jack Window is passing through a small California town, which so happens is also the home of a Marines training base and an ammunition manufacturer/distributor. As a sleep deprived Widow sits in a small diner enjoying his coffee, he notices a Marine sitting alone in a booth nearby. Something seems out of place with this Marine, so Widow goes over, introduces himself and tries to assess the situation by striking up a conversation. The Marine, James Turik, seems to be zoned out and really is not looking to engage in idle chit-chat. Before long, Turik gets up and leaves the diner and Widow goes back to his coffee.
Widow soon decides he needs to put his head on a pillow for a few hours, asks the waitress for the location of the nearest motel, and sets out to get himself some much needed sleep.
Well, as we know, where Widow goes, some sort of trouble is always following close by. Not more than a couple of hours into his slumber, Widow is jolted awake by heavy banging on his motel room door… seems the military police have tracked him down and want some answers. Now!
Why did he talk with the Marine in the diner? What did they discuss? How does he know the Marine?
Turns out that James Turik, the Marine from the diner, went directly from the diner to the base and shot and killed five Marines before turning the gun on himself. Oh boy. And seeing as Widows was the last person to talk with him before this all went down, the military police want answers. Widow is handcuffed, and taken to the base for further questioning.
This book has plenty of action. There is the obligatory hand-to-hand combat and lots of gun play too. Would not be a Jack Widow book without it. Right?
Much like the last book, the story was fairly fast paced and flowed quite nicely. My only complaint about the book was the rather quick conclusion and wrap up of the whole ordeal.
I look forward to reading more from this series in the near future.
June 25, 2022
This is the 4th book in the series.
This time our hero finds himself in a small town with a military base. He goes into a diner to get his coffee after getting out of his latest truck. While there, he sees a military man who he thinks needs to chat, so he sits down and tries to get him to open up. Before long and without saying much, the guy gets up and leaves. Our hero finishes his coffee and decides he needs some sleep and checks into the town hotel. Until he’s woken up by some MPs or military police. They want answers and they want them now. Who thought of sitting down and having a small chat to a guy would end up like this?
Before long our hero is taken in to be interrogated, let go, asked to help, escorted out of town, tried to be beaten up, before giving in to helping the MPs with this case.
Towards the middle to end of this one makes me feel like the Incredible Hulk I used to watch on TV where at the end of every episode he would tell everyone thanks but no thanks and then head out of town which is exactly what our hero does.
I loved the ending with the clothes which made me smile and giggle because it was unexpected.
This time our hero finds himself in a small town with a military base. He goes into a diner to get his coffee after getting out of his latest truck. While there, he sees a military man who he thinks needs to chat, so he sits down and tries to get him to open up. Before long and without saying much, the guy gets up and leaves. Our hero finishes his coffee and decides he needs some sleep and checks into the town hotel. Until he’s woken up by some MPs or military police. They want answers and they want them now. Who thought of sitting down and having a small chat to a guy would end up like this?
Before long our hero is taken in to be interrogated, let go, asked to help, escorted out of town, tried to be beaten up, before giving in to helping the MPs with this case.
Towards the middle to end of this one makes me feel like the Incredible Hulk I used to watch on TV where at the end of every episode he would tell everyone thanks but no thanks and then head out of town which is exactly what our hero does.
I loved the ending with the clothes which made me smile and giggle because it was unexpected.
February 12, 2022
4.5 stars until the last 25% of the book where huh? is the best thing I can say for some of the activities and logic. Widow seems to be fashioned after Jack Reacher, fine by me.
The action is good as is the story for 3/4 of the book. Then a battle hardened, high political hardened person suddenly decides he's going to kill himself, thus screwing over Widow at the same time. Huh? Ok, it was good up until that absurdity, so I'd finish the book with gritted teeth. Then lower the author's and your IQ 40 points and continue. Like "rescuing" someone by leaving the person in the room in danger and walking away. Why not hang around and corner yourself in a room while you KNOW a bunch of armed killers are coming for you NOW? Uh because that is really stupid, but causes drama? Yeah. Maybe the author had to finish the book before lunch so jammed in the conclusion. Too bad, was going pretty well for a while. I hate to say 3 stars, but 3.5 might be a stretch. A quarter of a book to mess up is a lot, right?
The action is good as is the story for 3/4 of the book. Then a battle hardened, high political hardened person suddenly decides he's going to kill himself, thus screwing over Widow at the same time. Huh? Ok, it was good up until that absurdity, so I'd finish the book with gritted teeth. Then lower the author's and your IQ 40 points and continue. Like "rescuing" someone by leaving the person in the room in danger and walking away. Why not hang around and corner yourself in a room while you KNOW a bunch of armed killers are coming for you NOW? Uh because that is really stupid, but causes drama? Yeah. Maybe the author had to finish the book before lunch so jammed in the conclusion. Too bad, was going pretty well for a while. I hate to say 3 stars, but 3.5 might be a stretch. A quarter of a book to mess up is a lot, right?
May 31, 2021
Apparently I'm the only person who has never read a Jack Reacher book (sorry, Lee Child!) so the knock-off comparison/complaint doesn't bother me. Scott Blade's Jack Widow is a neat character who seems to be trying to do nothing but find a good cup of coffee and a place to sleep as he wanders around the country -- but his former stints as a cop, a Navy Seal and agent in the NCIS seem to pull him into situations that require his reluctant help. He's a big, quiet, patriotic guy who sometimes steps over the line to get the job done and justice served.
The action gets somewhat gory at times, but I really appreciate that Blade doesn't pepper the page with foul language and the sex is soft-pedaled. Those aren't necessary if the characters and the storyline are as good as they should be. Glad I decided to read the first three in the series before this one -- they are just getting better and better!
The action gets somewhat gory at times, but I really appreciate that Blade doesn't pepper the page with foul language and the sex is soft-pedaled. Those aren't necessary if the characters and the storyline are as good as they should be. Glad I decided to read the first three in the series before this one -- they are just getting better and better!
June 8, 2021
Scott Blade's Jack Widow books are as much fun and as fast to read as a water slide at an amusement park. He's got it down and like a Calgon bath, will take you instantly away. He has a deep understanding and respect for the military, police procedure and weapons. This works nicely until he decides it helps the plot to violate these norms, which challenges your willing sense of disbelief. It's unfortunate because you just have to set the book down for a few minutes as you wrap you head around something that just doesn't make sense. He also has a formula for his Jack Reacher-like character, Jack Widow, which always has him missing out on his love interest in the end and moving on. Despite these periodic flaws, Mr. Blade knows how to write a beach thriller that keeps your attention and helps turn you into a speed reader.
October 3, 2023
Wow. This might have been the best Widow book of the series so far. I was fortunate enough to have lots of free time with nothing better to do than read (was flying across the country). Because of all this free time I was able to finish this book in little more than a day. This book hooked me right away and had me flipping pages like crazy. Widow is one bad mother that the bad guys & gals need to learn to stay away from. This book had a couple surprises but I hate spoilers in a review so that’s all you get as far as plot goes. This book was awesome & don’t hesitate to pick a copy of this book. I am so pumped I might do the unthinkable and read back to back novels from the same author. I prefer to switch across my favorites to avoid burnout. Get this book folks I can’t stress it enough.
December 6, 2017
How does a guy get into trouble just trying to get a couple hours sleep? Jack Widow did. Spent a few minutes talking to a dude in a coffee shop that looked a bit distressed and the went t hit the sack. A pounding on his door and let the games begin! This story finds him in N. California near a military training base. The person he was talking to went out and killed 6 people on the base. Or did he? The MPs think so and they think Widow must know more than he is telling. Turik's (the suspect) sister does not believe her brother did it, and convinces Jack to check it out to clear her brother's name. Lot's of Good guy vs Bad guy action!
May 27, 2021
Glaring errors...even page one.
Within 5 minutes of starting this book I noticed that one of the characters was carrying a special ops pistol based on the Browning 1911 in "45 millimeter". Come on. Just a t8ny bit 9f research would show that A) There's no such thing as a special ops handgun based on the Browning 1911, and B) If there was such a gun, it might be a 45 cal8ber, which is approximately 11 millimeter. 46 millimeter ammunition would be approximately 1.75 inches in diameter. Pretty big for a gun designed for a hip holster. I'll try to start reading it again, but many more errors like this will probably make me give up on it.
Within 5 minutes of starting this book I noticed that one of the characters was carrying a special ops pistol based on the Browning 1911 in "45 millimeter". Come on. Just a t8ny bit 9f research would show that A) There's no such thing as a special ops handgun based on the Browning 1911, and B) If there was such a gun, it might be a 45 cal8ber, which is approximately 11 millimeter. 46 millimeter ammunition would be approximately 1.75 inches in diameter. Pretty big for a gun designed for a hip holster. I'll try to start reading it again, but many more errors like this will probably make me give up on it.
July 2, 2021
I've never read any of Scott Blades books before
But I can assure you I will be reading them all. This book .is a murder mystery. Its not gory. It doesn't have any detailed descriptions of the murders (that's a buzz kill for me). I don't remember any bad language or sex scenes. You do have to put on your thinking cap and try to figure out what's going on, but its not one of those deep thinking stories, where the answer doesn't make sense. I highly recommend this book. You won't regret it. I'm on to the another one of Scott's books. Thank you for having your books in Kindle Unlimited.
But I can assure you I will be reading them all. This book .is a murder mystery. Its not gory. It doesn't have any detailed descriptions of the murders (that's a buzz kill for me). I don't remember any bad language or sex scenes. You do have to put on your thinking cap and try to figure out what's going on, but its not one of those deep thinking stories, where the answer doesn't make sense. I highly recommend this book. You won't regret it. I'm on to the another one of Scott's books. Thank you for having your books in Kindle Unlimited.
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July 8, 2021Jack Widow mystery
A man shoots himself on a marine base in what appears to be a homicide. Widow is in a diner and notices a man in Camo uniform with a gun strapped to his side and a big brute of a man nearby observing when Widow joins him at the table and asks questions as he sees the guy is upset but he won't talk. The guy then apparently goes on a rampage at the base killing people before killing himself. The guys sister approaches Widow and shows a video on her phone that her brother sent and you can hear shots in the background. Widow now is out to prove Turik's innocence but what does he uncover along the way?? Fast paced edge of your seat read
A man shoots himself on a marine base in what appears to be a homicide. Widow is in a diner and notices a man in Camo uniform with a gun strapped to his side and a big brute of a man nearby observing when Widow joins him at the table and asks questions as he sees the guy is upset but he won't talk. The guy then apparently goes on a rampage at the base killing people before killing himself. The guys sister approaches Widow and shows a video on her phone that her brother sent and you can hear shots in the background. Widow now is out to prove Turik's innocence but what does he uncover along the way?? Fast paced edge of your seat read
January 25, 2026
A good story, but I had issues with plausibility. Some of it was really good, but I had issues with some of the verbiage. At one point Widow had a long conversation with an English diplomat. A lot of words and terms used by the diplomat were very American. Another issue I have with this and a few other authors is, Widow is former military, yet he refers to weapons as guns. Don't former military personnel refer to their weapons as sidearms, weapons, etc.? I was led to believe that calling it a gun was drilled out of them during Basic Training. Perhaps I'm being pedantic, but I need a little more realism in the stories I read.
October 28, 2019
Scott writes pretty great plots and his books do track fairly well in terms of structure and suspense that Lee Child's Reacher books do. In truth, I give this book 4.5 stars, but Goodreads doesn't support fractional ratings.
With that said, Scott could definitely have better results with a professional editor. The occasional misused words here or there are easy to catch. Less so the repeated word or phrase within a paragraph of the other, but it's a little distracting.
Overall, I enjoyed this book.
With that said, Scott could definitely have better results with a professional editor. The occasional misused words here or there are easy to catch. Less so the repeated word or phrase within a paragraph of the other, but it's a little distracting.
Overall, I enjoyed this book.
September 29, 2025
Widow versus terrorists
This book in the series was much better than the last. Widow is a bit like Reacher, except that Widow is not Superman all the time. This storyline was exceptionally tight, especially at the beginning. It stayed tight for the most part all the way. I did figure out the identity of most of the bad guys before the end, but liked how it fell together. As with the other books, the characters are well developed. There are not any extras, just those necessary. Overall, a very satisfying read. A 4.5 out of 5 rating.
This book in the series was much better than the last. Widow is a bit like Reacher, except that Widow is not Superman all the time. This storyline was exceptionally tight, especially at the beginning. It stayed tight for the most part all the way. I did figure out the identity of most of the bad guys before the end, but liked how it fell together. As with the other books, the characters are well developed. There are not any extras, just those necessary. Overall, a very satisfying read. A 4.5 out of 5 rating.
May 18, 2021
Great fun for fans of Reacher (who I stopped reading when the books began drifting into torture-porn and overly gratuitous violence which didn't enhance the story)
This was free to download so I thought I'd give it a go and was pleasantly surprised. Terse writing, good visual imaging, a likeable character and writing that 'got inside' Widow's head.
I'm going to find the first book and work through the series. I hope it doesn't disappoint ;)
This was free to download so I thought I'd give it a go and was pleasantly surprised. Terse writing, good visual imaging, a likeable character and writing that 'got inside' Widow's head.
I'm going to find the first book and work through the series. I hope it doesn't disappoint ;)
June 13, 2021
Ten years in captivity will change anyone.
Former SEAL, undercover operative, and drifter, Jack Widow spots something of concern in a lone gunman, near an elite military training base. National security is possibly at stake. Can Widow avoid getting involved?
The 4th in the well paced thriller mystery series about Jack Widow contained enough suspense, action, twists and turns to keep my heart racing and me reading, long into the night.
Former SEAL, undercover operative, and drifter, Jack Widow spots something of concern in a lone gunman, near an elite military training base. National security is possibly at stake. Can Widow avoid getting involved?
The 4th in the well paced thriller mystery series about Jack Widow contained enough suspense, action, twists and turns to keep my heart racing and me reading, long into the night.
June 25, 2021
Am I the only person who noticed that Jack Widow is 31 years old in this book whereas he was 33 in Book one?
This lack of attention to detail combined with numerous typos, missing words, poorly constructed sentences and repeated phrases and sentences annoyed me immensely because I really like Jack Widow and I enjoyed the story very much. I have moved on to Book 5 and am hoping that the editor has done a better job here. Three stars for" Without Measure"
This lack of attention to detail combined with numerous typos, missing words, poorly constructed sentences and repeated phrases and sentences annoyed me immensely because I really like Jack Widow and I enjoyed the story very much. I have moved on to Book 5 and am hoping that the editor has done a better job here. Three stars for" Without Measure"
September 19, 2022
Wow what a crazy ride for Jack Widow. He is just passing through this area and as he is just sitting having coffee his eyes scan the restaurant. Starts to notice irregularities and approaches the young man and starts a conversation. Unable to stay away he gets involved and his life is put into situations that only his skills can protect him from the worst. Keeps you reading until the very end since you really need to know the reason for all the deaths. Will be reading more of this author.
January 3, 2024
this is a tired Widow?
Widow is exhausted and just needs some breakfast before he finds a motel in the small CA town that’s home to a Marine training base. But sleep is not what he finds, instead he finds himself entangled in the aftermath of a Base shooting. The more Widow thinks about the events, the more things don’t add up. This time he teams up with the lead MP and uncover something scarier than the lies.
Another great story!
Widow is exhausted and just needs some breakfast before he finds a motel in the small CA town that’s home to a Marine training base. But sleep is not what he finds, instead he finds himself entangled in the aftermath of a Base shooting. The more Widow thinks about the events, the more things don’t add up. This time he teams up with the lead MP and uncover something scarier than the lies.
Another great story!
March 7, 2020
I am really enjoying the Jack Widow series - I love the guy and his library of skills. The plotlines in these books are skillfully woven and written with a lot of class. It feels like you're sitting across a cafe table talking to Widow as he tells you what happened. And while you know he's going to prevail, the way he does it isn't predictable. I'm a fan. Good job, Scott!
April 3, 2021
Not great
Widow again gets involved innocently by trying to befriend a soldier at a cafe. This soldier later appeared to have been a mass murderer before killing himself. But things are not always what they seem. This book had way too much detail and it was a reach to tie it to ISIS.
Widow again gets involved innocently by trying to befriend a soldier at a cafe. This soldier later appeared to have been a mass murderer before killing himself. But things are not always what they seem. This book had way too much detail and it was a reach to tie it to ISIS.
May 14, 2021
Captivating!
Started reading & read straight through!
Blade kept action going & there was nowhere to stop. Some of it seems impostrous but what do I know?.......in this day & time??
I did like Widow, the main character......a no nonsense guy. Look forward to the next adventure.
Started reading & read straight through!
Blade kept action going & there was nowhere to stop. Some of it seems impostrous but what do I know?.......in this day & time??
I did like Widow, the main character......a no nonsense guy. Look forward to the next adventure.
May 17, 2021
An intriguing story
This is not the first Scott Blade I’ve read and definitely not the last. Jack Widow is a man of many mysteries and while many want to know why none get the full story. This is what makes reading about him even better. This book doesn’t story has so many twist and turns you can’t help the fact you can’t put it down.
This is not the first Scott Blade I’ve read and definitely not the last. Jack Widow is a man of many mysteries and while many want to know why none get the full story. This is what makes reading about him even better. This book doesn’t story has so many twist and turns you can’t help the fact you can’t put it down.
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