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Thea Paris #2
Skyjack
The electrifying sequel to THE FREEDOM BROKER, featuring Thea Paris, a kidnap and ransom specialist. For Thea, kidnap is always personal - her brother's life was nearly ruined when he was taken as a child. Lisa Gardner says THE FREEDOM BROKER is 'clever and gritty' and Peter James calls it 'spellbinding'. If you like David Baldacci's King and Maxwell series, you will love this.
When Thea Paris's flight is hijacked over the Libyan Desert, her first priority is the two former child soldiers she is escorting to a new life in London.
As an international kidnap specialist, Thea Paris negotiates for hostage release as part of her job. She knows one wrong move could lead to deadly consequences.
After she is forcibly separated from the boys and the other passengers, Thea and her tactical team quickly regroup. And in their desperate search for the hostages that follows, unearth a conspiracy involving the CIA, the Vatican and the Sicilian Mafia, and a plot far more sinister than Thea could ever have imagined.
When Thea Paris's flight is hijacked over the Libyan Desert, her first priority is the two former child soldiers she is escorting to a new life in London.
As an international kidnap specialist, Thea Paris negotiates for hostage release as part of her job. She knows one wrong move could lead to deadly consequences.
After she is forcibly separated from the boys and the other passengers, Thea and her tactical team quickly regroup. And in their desperate search for the hostages that follows, unearth a conspiracy involving the CIA, the Vatican and the Sicilian Mafia, and a plot far more sinister than Thea could ever have imagined.
368 pages, Paperback
First published April 10, 2018
94 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
K.J. Howe
5 books261 followersKimberley Howe is the Executive Director of ThrillerFest. Thrillerfest is a conference of International Thriller Writers held every July in New York City. She is also a former medical, health, and fitness writer, as well as, a world traveler, cyclist, swimmer and tennis player.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
October 19, 2018
Not my usual thing, but I enjoyed this thriller very much. If you are into high octane action and kick-ass good guys with highly honed combat skills this book is for you. I particularly liked the lead character, Thea Paris, I just wish she would have had a second woman on her team. Come on! Does every action hero have to be male, except one, every time. I feel like this is becoming a trope, one strong woman and all the rest male. Oh well, baby steps. . .
August 12, 2018
K.J. Howe brings just as much excitement in this follow-up novel as her debut brought curious readers! Without a doubt, this piece keeps the reader’s attention through to the final page flip while packing a punch throughout. This goes to show that she is not a one-hit wonder and will likely make a name for herself for years to come. After securing the adoption of two young African boys with a London family, Thea Paris is flying with Ayan and Jabari to their new home. Trying to explain what to expect in the United Kingdom, Paris realises that these two know only the life of being child soldiers, but hopes this new beginning helps let them be children again. When the plane on which they are travelling is skyjacked, Thea is forced to go into work mode, trained as a kidnap and ransom negotiator with Quantum International Security. As events unfold upon their landing in the Libyan desert, Thea discovers that the group responsible has their eye on one particular passenger, but will not elaborate. Thea negotiates the release of the passengers, but only if she will make her way to Turkey and secure a transport vehicle for the hijackers. Baffled, Thea agrees to do whatever she can to help, especially if it means she can get to London and save these boys from more devastation. Meanwhile, Austrian teen Johann Dietrich comes to learn that his father heads up an ultra-nationalist group that seeks to rid the world of Arabs the world over, blaming them for a handful of recent terror attacks. Armed with this knowledge, Johann goes through channels to reach Thea Paris, hoping she can properly synthesise what is to come and the fallout. Johann tries to make his way to Turkey, but is not alone, and the results could be disastrous. WIth the passengers still being held hostage and armed with this news, Thea pieces together what is going on and how all of Europe could be in danger, if she does not act swiftly. Howe keeps the reader on the edge of their seat through to the final chapter in this sensational second thriller with a unique spin. Recommended for those who love the fast pace of hostage rescue with a political bent.
I remember reading Howe’s debut and being very impressed, not only with the writing style, but the unique angle she took when it came to kidnap thrillers. Her personal experiences are not only helpful in pulling factual information and weaving it into the story, but there is surely some of Howe in Paris’ character. Thea Paris is a tough-as-nails woman who takes her job seriously. Her compassion comes through in an attempt to get her young charges to London, but she is also full of determination when negotiating the release of hostages. The reader will surely latch onto her early in this piece, particularly if they have the backstory of the debut novel. Thea surrounds herself with some of the world’s best at Quantum, leaving the reader to see others who are well-versed in security and human extraction, all while trying to limit the bloodshed. The handful of other characters, from passengers to those promoting terror, all play their essential role in this piece, which keeps the story moving forward. The narrative and larger plot are both highly digestible and the attentive reader will find themselves engrossed with both as the pages fly by. Easily read in a few sittings, Howe shows that her ability to convey intense information flows smoothly. Of particular interest is the sub-plot about Arab extermination, specially the parallels that Howe makes with Hitler’s ‘Final Solution’ of the Jews. The reader can see that this is a plausible plan by some ultra-nationalist groups, particularly with the massive numbers of displaced individuals around Europe, though I am sure it could just as easily happen on other continents. Full of realistic situations backed up with intricate knowledge of goings-on, Howe’s novel is not only a must read, but will keep the reader thinking long after turning that final page.
Kudos, Madam Howe, for another strong novel. I love your ideas and presentation, hoping that Thea Paris has the energy to stick it out for a long time to come.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I remember reading Howe’s debut and being very impressed, not only with the writing style, but the unique angle she took when it came to kidnap thrillers. Her personal experiences are not only helpful in pulling factual information and weaving it into the story, but there is surely some of Howe in Paris’ character. Thea Paris is a tough-as-nails woman who takes her job seriously. Her compassion comes through in an attempt to get her young charges to London, but she is also full of determination when negotiating the release of hostages. The reader will surely latch onto her early in this piece, particularly if they have the backstory of the debut novel. Thea surrounds herself with some of the world’s best at Quantum, leaving the reader to see others who are well-versed in security and human extraction, all while trying to limit the bloodshed. The handful of other characters, from passengers to those promoting terror, all play their essential role in this piece, which keeps the story moving forward. The narrative and larger plot are both highly digestible and the attentive reader will find themselves engrossed with both as the pages fly by. Easily read in a few sittings, Howe shows that her ability to convey intense information flows smoothly. Of particular interest is the sub-plot about Arab extermination, specially the parallels that Howe makes with Hitler’s ‘Final Solution’ of the Jews. The reader can see that this is a plausible plan by some ultra-nationalist groups, particularly with the massive numbers of displaced individuals around Europe, though I am sure it could just as easily happen on other continents. Full of realistic situations backed up with intricate knowledge of goings-on, Howe’s novel is not only a must read, but will keep the reader thinking long after turning that final page.
Kudos, Madam Howe, for another strong novel. I love your ideas and presentation, hoping that Thea Paris has the energy to stick it out for a long time to come.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
April 10, 2018
Two thoughts when I got to the last page of this totally engrossing book: First, how much it reminded me of James Patterson's "Private" series - only better. Second, what a great movie it would make!
The second book in a series featuring kidnap and ransom specialist Thea Paris, head of Quantum Security International's black-ops team (the first is "Freedom Broker"), this one, which stands well on its own, is full of intrigue, action, betrayal, blood and guts. From the first page on, I really didn't want to stop reading; had my husband and I not been invited to dinner with friends one evening, I'm sure I'd have polished it off in two days. Without hesitation, I'd put it on the list of 10 best novels of this kind I've ever read.
At the beginning, the story is pretty much up in the air as Thea is in an airplane (not her favorite place to be, BTW) escorting two young, war-scarred boys to London, where they'll be adopted by a loving couple. But that plan changes abruptly when the pilot begins to act strangely, then locks himself in cockpit. Yep, it's a hijacking - and the plane and its traumatized passengers are diverted to a landing spot somewhere in the Libyan desert.
A seasoned hostage negotiator, Thea immediately begins the process of bargaining with Prospero Salvatore, a man with whom she's had prior dealings (I suppose in the first novel). In exchange for the release of the plane and its passengers, he wants the Quantum Security team to head to Budapest and capture a truck full of Syrian refugees. Why he wants that is a mystery Thea would love to solve, but her primary focus must be on getting the passengers - especially the two boys - out of harm's way.
As this scenario gets underway, so does another storyline. In Austria, a young man named Johann Dietrich learns of a secret society of men intent on ridding the world of anyone of Middle-Eastern descent - a group led by his own father. In large part for personal reasons, Johann doesn't share his father's hatred - but he does love his father. So how far will he go to stop dear old dad's plan to release a deadly virus that targets only people of with that genetic composition?
Before long, it becomes clear that the storylines will converge; chapters shift from the perspectives of Thea, Prospero and Johann (meaning readers need to pay attention or chance getting a little bit lost). Everything comes together at the end in bang-up fashion - literally. Of course, I can't reveal much else except to say that since this is a series, it shouldn't come as a big surprise that the heroine will live to see another book.
Speaking of Thea, she's a bit more interesting than other action heroines in that she has type I diabetes and has an insulin pump - an issue that's happily treated matter-of-factly (yet the potential for disaster is always present). Try as I might, though, I simply can't get serious about a partner (and potential love interest) named "Rif." What's his real name? Riffle? Riffraff? Puleeze!
That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Many thanks to BookishFirst.com, from which I received an advance copy for review (and the first hardcover book I've read in probably five years).
Oh, did I mention it would make a great movie?
The second book in a series featuring kidnap and ransom specialist Thea Paris, head of Quantum Security International's black-ops team (the first is "Freedom Broker"), this one, which stands well on its own, is full of intrigue, action, betrayal, blood and guts. From the first page on, I really didn't want to stop reading; had my husband and I not been invited to dinner with friends one evening, I'm sure I'd have polished it off in two days. Without hesitation, I'd put it on the list of 10 best novels of this kind I've ever read.
At the beginning, the story is pretty much up in the air as Thea is in an airplane (not her favorite place to be, BTW) escorting two young, war-scarred boys to London, where they'll be adopted by a loving couple. But that plan changes abruptly when the pilot begins to act strangely, then locks himself in cockpit. Yep, it's a hijacking - and the plane and its traumatized passengers are diverted to a landing spot somewhere in the Libyan desert.
A seasoned hostage negotiator, Thea immediately begins the process of bargaining with Prospero Salvatore, a man with whom she's had prior dealings (I suppose in the first novel). In exchange for the release of the plane and its passengers, he wants the Quantum Security team to head to Budapest and capture a truck full of Syrian refugees. Why he wants that is a mystery Thea would love to solve, but her primary focus must be on getting the passengers - especially the two boys - out of harm's way.
As this scenario gets underway, so does another storyline. In Austria, a young man named Johann Dietrich learns of a secret society of men intent on ridding the world of anyone of Middle-Eastern descent - a group led by his own father. In large part for personal reasons, Johann doesn't share his father's hatred - but he does love his father. So how far will he go to stop dear old dad's plan to release a deadly virus that targets only people of with that genetic composition?
Before long, it becomes clear that the storylines will converge; chapters shift from the perspectives of Thea, Prospero and Johann (meaning readers need to pay attention or chance getting a little bit lost). Everything comes together at the end in bang-up fashion - literally. Of course, I can't reveal much else except to say that since this is a series, it shouldn't come as a big surprise that the heroine will live to see another book.
Speaking of Thea, she's a bit more interesting than other action heroines in that she has type I diabetes and has an insulin pump - an issue that's happily treated matter-of-factly (yet the potential for disaster is always present). Try as I might, though, I simply can't get serious about a partner (and potential love interest) named "Rif." What's his real name? Riffle? Riffraff? Puleeze!
That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Many thanks to BookishFirst.com, from which I received an advance copy for review (and the first hardcover book I've read in probably five years).
Oh, did I mention it would make a great movie?
October 28, 2021
Thea Paris, a hostage negotiator is on a plane, when the pilot locks himself in the cockpit and lands somewhere in Libya. The man behind it is an old enemy. In the meantime, Austrians are looking to wipe out Arabs, and one of the Austrian youths falls in love with an Arab girl.
Actually fairly humdrum as these things go.
Actually fairly humdrum as these things go.
January 19, 2022
The electrifying sequel to THE FREEDOM BROKER, featuring Thea Paris, a kidnap and ransom specialist. For Thea kidnap is always personal - her brother's life was nearly ruined when he was taken as a child.
When Thea Paris's flight is hijacked over the Libyan Desert, her first priority is the two former child soldiers she is escorting to a new life in London.
As an international kidnap specialist, Thea Paris negotiates for hostage release as part of her job. She knows one wrong move could lead to deadly consequences.
After she is forcibly separated from the boys and the other passengers, Thea and her tactical team quickly regroup. And in their desperate search for the hostages that follows, unearth a conspiracy involving the CIA, the Vatican and the Sicilian Mafia, and a plot far more sinister than Thea could ever have imagined.
After reading The Freedom Broker and Skyjack one after the other, Skyjack is stronger with a thriller filled with characters, names to remember, again a takes a little time to gain pace, but when it does it keeps going and a great pace.
Thea Paris and her team of great personalities, lots to deal with and a personal favourite character Johann.
A complex story with Muslims, Austrians and Thea and her team battling them all, as well as Italians !
Slightly stronger story than the first, clear four stars.
When Thea Paris's flight is hijacked over the Libyan Desert, her first priority is the two former child soldiers she is escorting to a new life in London.
As an international kidnap specialist, Thea Paris negotiates for hostage release as part of her job. She knows one wrong move could lead to deadly consequences.
After she is forcibly separated from the boys and the other passengers, Thea and her tactical team quickly regroup. And in their desperate search for the hostages that follows, unearth a conspiracy involving the CIA, the Vatican and the Sicilian Mafia, and a plot far more sinister than Thea could ever have imagined.
After reading The Freedom Broker and Skyjack one after the other, Skyjack is stronger with a thriller filled with characters, names to remember, again a takes a little time to gain pace, but when it does it keeps going and a great pace.
Thea Paris and her team of great personalities, lots to deal with and a personal favourite character Johann.
A complex story with Muslims, Austrians and Thea and her team battling them all, as well as Italians !
Slightly stronger story than the first, clear four stars.
May 15, 2018
4.5/5 (rounded up to 5)
Holy Cow! What a thrill ride! A skyjacked business jet, former child soldiers, missing nuclear material, pneumonic plague, a mafia capo and a super secret society started after WWII...what's not to love?!? Thea Paris is a very strong heroine who is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. But, she kicks butt and takes names along the way. Without going in to the plot details, lets just say it's a little convoluted, but KJ brings it all together very nicely. There is a great cast of supporting characters. Not only do we get to know the Quantam team a little better (which I hope she continues to do), but she introduces some characters I hope we see in the future: Jabari and Ayan, the former Boko Harem child soldiers (total scene stealers!) and Prospero, the mafia capo. He could be a great foil in future books.
Overall, I highly recommend this series.
Holy Cow! What a thrill ride! A skyjacked business jet, former child soldiers, missing nuclear material, pneumonic plague, a mafia capo and a super secret society started after WWII...what's not to love?!? Thea Paris is a very strong heroine who is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. But, she kicks butt and takes names along the way. Without going in to the plot details, lets just say it's a little convoluted, but KJ brings it all together very nicely. There is a great cast of supporting characters. Not only do we get to know the Quantam team a little better (which I hope she continues to do), but she introduces some characters I hope we see in the future: Jabari and Ayan, the former Boko Harem child soldiers (total scene stealers!) and Prospero, the mafia capo. He could be a great foil in future books.
Overall, I highly recommend this series.
September 12, 2019
A fun romp that was a bit far fetched.
August 3, 2018
have all the good thriller stuff. great lady chacter
July 28, 2018
Wow, this is like a big screen movie in a book with its all action packed page turning story. Thea Paris, a kidnap and ransom specialist, is taking two former soldier boys from Africa to the UK for adoption and a new life, when the plane they are on is hi-jacked. The pilot has locked himself in the cockpit and the plane is heading to a new destination where it lands in the Libyan desert. Thea’s expertise kicks in to full effect as she takes charge of the negotiations with an old adversary. Thea is in a race against time to find out why the skyjack has taken place. When the demand comes it isn’t quite what she was expecting.
Over in Austria, teenager Johann Dietrich has found his first love, Fatima a young Muslim girl, but his father is more than horrified. Johann’s father is the head of a secret underground movement to rid the world of all the middle eastern population, not just a few of them but all of them. The horrifying plans are ready to be put into motion but where will Johann’s loyalties finally sit?
This is a top-notch story with an author that doesn’t do things by halves. The research is obviously extensive and flows in the story perfectly. A mix between a political and crime thriller she has got that perfect balance of technical information with real people story lines where you feel invested for these people to survive. I have to admit to really liking Johann, a rare breed of young man. Thea makes a brilliant lead character, confident, fast thinking and vulnerable. Thea is an insulin dependant diabetic but it seems to have made her a stronger woman to succeed in anything she does.
Although this is the second book in the series it makes a perfect one-off read. Pure brilliance!
Over in Austria, teenager Johann Dietrich has found his first love, Fatima a young Muslim girl, but his father is more than horrified. Johann’s father is the head of a secret underground movement to rid the world of all the middle eastern population, not just a few of them but all of them. The horrifying plans are ready to be put into motion but where will Johann’s loyalties finally sit?
This is a top-notch story with an author that doesn’t do things by halves. The research is obviously extensive and flows in the story perfectly. A mix between a political and crime thriller she has got that perfect balance of technical information with real people story lines where you feel invested for these people to survive. I have to admit to really liking Johann, a rare breed of young man. Thea makes a brilliant lead character, confident, fast thinking and vulnerable. Thea is an insulin dependant diabetic but it seems to have made her a stronger woman to succeed in anything she does.
Although this is the second book in the series it makes a perfect one-off read. Pure brilliance!
April 8, 2018
Skyjack is the second Thea Paris novel and like the first, Skyjack offers an unrelenting pace that's filled with action and character-driven drama.
Unlike the first book, Freedom Broker, this second book focuses less on Thea herself. Unlike in the first book, where it was her father who was kidnapped, this time it's Thea's life on the line, which is convenient to those nefarious folks who want to use her skills to fulfill their own plans. What I liked so much about the first book was the focus on Thea and the key players like her father and the team that she works closely with. While all these characters are here, I found the focus to be less on Thea and her work than the international crisis that she was involved it.
A high-action follow-up that will be sure to appeal to fans of the first book.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
Unlike the first book, Freedom Broker, this second book focuses less on Thea herself. Unlike in the first book, where it was her father who was kidnapped, this time it's Thea's life on the line, which is convenient to those nefarious folks who want to use her skills to fulfill their own plans. What I liked so much about the first book was the focus on Thea and the key players like her father and the team that she works closely with. While all these characters are here, I found the focus to be less on Thea and her work than the international crisis that she was involved it.
A high-action follow-up that will be sure to appeal to fans of the first book.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
July 17, 2019
Reading this series is like watching some action movie. A lot of unbelievable action scenes that our heroes magically survive! I'm not opposed to it tho! I do like fast paced movies and books, so I didn't mind it at all! The plot can get a bit confusing at times, I think I messed up some characters so I was confused at some points, but overall it's not that complicated.
November 8, 2020
While Skyjack can be listened to on its own, there are definitely spoilers to events from The Freedom Broker and you’ll want to read/listen to these in order.
Thea Paris and the Quantum team return in what is Summer blockbuster movie material and 11 hours of audio. Howe introduces an even larger cast of characters and new situations that individually are compelling – yet culminate in a thrilling ride with a slightly surprising ending.
This book has it all – a Broken Arrow, skyjacking, mobsters, kidnapping, secret societies, terrorist plots, boat chases, and numerous shoot outs. At times it seems like maybe a little too much, but overall it was a fast paced, enjoyable, and suspenseful thriller. I especially appreciate what is obviously a lot of research Howe does to provide accuracy and details to her story. She takes us to numerous locations and the descriptions were so rich I truly felt like I was there.
Note: I have the ebook & audio and read along at times while listening. I’m not sure why, but there were several parts of the audio that seemed “Americanized”. For example the book says “dustbin lorry” and the narrator said “garbage truck”. It wasn’t a huge discrepancy but it did seem odd at times given the setting and characters.
This is my first time listening to Thérèse Plummer and she will definitely be going on my list of narrators to follow. Her range and consistency of voices across genders, age, accents, and emotions was perfection. Combined with Howe’s writing – this was a fabulous audiobook and I’m going to go back and add the audio of book 1 to my collection.
Thea Paris and the Quantum team return in what is Summer blockbuster movie material and 11 hours of audio. Howe introduces an even larger cast of characters and new situations that individually are compelling – yet culminate in a thrilling ride with a slightly surprising ending.
This book has it all – a Broken Arrow, skyjacking, mobsters, kidnapping, secret societies, terrorist plots, boat chases, and numerous shoot outs. At times it seems like maybe a little too much, but overall it was a fast paced, enjoyable, and suspenseful thriller. I especially appreciate what is obviously a lot of research Howe does to provide accuracy and details to her story. She takes us to numerous locations and the descriptions were so rich I truly felt like I was there.
Note: I have the ebook & audio and read along at times while listening. I’m not sure why, but there were several parts of the audio that seemed “Americanized”. For example the book says “dustbin lorry” and the narrator said “garbage truck”. It wasn’t a huge discrepancy but it did seem odd at times given the setting and characters.
This is my first time listening to Thérèse Plummer and she will definitely be going on my list of narrators to follow. Her range and consistency of voices across genders, age, accents, and emotions was perfection. Combined with Howe’s writing – this was a fabulous audiobook and I’m going to go back and add the audio of book 1 to my collection.
August 9, 2018
I may expand on this soon, but for now, I'll just say that I enjoyed Skyjack more than The Freedom Broker and that's saying a bunch. Wonderful, convincing thriller, with rich characters, and nonstop action. Too often thrillers get saturated with calibers, gauges, barrel velocities, etc. K.J. Howe seems to know just the right amount to validate the weaponry without taking one out of the story.
Thea Paris #3 won't get here soon enough for me.
Thea Paris #3 won't get here soon enough for me.
April 22, 2018
“Skyjack” by J. K. Howe starts on March 10, 1956 with the loss of two nuclear containers full of material with a 704 million-year half-life, an ominous start to an ominous book. It is the second book featuring freedom broker Thea Paris, but it is not necessary to have read “Freedom Broker," the previous book. This book stands on its own, and is full of treachery, betrayal, and bad guys who are not always bad and vice versa.
Thea Paris is on a business jet for Quantum International Security. In her job as freedom broker, she travels undercover to global hot spots and handles risk management and kidnap negotiations. She hates to fly, yet here she is on a business jet, and things are suddenly not going well. The descriptions might make one hesitant to EVER fly again.
“The world tilts upward, the plane’s nose pitches skyward sharply. Thea’s right hand reached for the overhead compartment, her fingers connecting with the latch. She clung to it, but as it took her weight, the latch popped open. She lolled backward, then kipped herself forward, grabbing the inside lip with both hands. Like a rock climber hanging from a dangerous precipice, her body swung back and forth, teetering.”
In the midst of the turbulence, a man becomes ill, passes out. What is worse is that the pilot has locked the cabin door, preventing the co-pilot or crew from entering. It is clear that someone has gone to a lot of trouble to hijack this plane. Which passenger do they want, and why? Of course, Thea’s job now becomes re-hijacking the 737 as international forces ramp up for the rescue.
There are two story lines, one involving with the hijacked plane in the middle of the Libyan Desert, and the other in Innsbruck, Austria involving seventeen-year-old Johann Dietrich and his father, a successful weapons manufacturer with clients around the world.
Both scenarios are well developed and compelling. Chapters present multiple points of view and alternate between the storylines. There are clear definitions so readers follow the developments in each scenario.
The tension is thick in the air, and details jump from the page in breath holding action. Minute by minute the trauma increases, and explicit details to paint a dramatic picture.
“Bullets slammed into the steel around her extended arm. A sharp stab of pain. Unable to hold on, she dropped the rifle and pulled her arm back inside. Blood soaked the shirtsleeve just below the elbow.”
There are terrorists, traitors, hostages, political refugees, hidden agendas, sleeper cells, secret walls, keys, dungeons, bystanders both innocent and insidious, and just plain bad guys. Many do not make it out alive, and some deaths are very personal. The political conspiracy and international intrigue are as up to date as if the reports were on tonight’s news.
Even on a hijacked plane, there is always one … “I need my checked bag.” “Hand luggage only. This is a hijacking, not a connecting flight!” “But I have presents for my grandchildren.” “ Move.”
And I love that in the midst of the pursuit, Thea gets a tourist out of the way by sending her to a book signing at a bookstore around the corner.
I received a copy of “Skyjack” from J. K. Howe, Quercus, and NetGalley. This quote sums up the book:
“I woke up this morning thinking it’d be another run-of-the-mill flight, and I actually said to myself, I hope something exciting happens today. Be careful what you wish for.”
Thea Paris is on a business jet for Quantum International Security. In her job as freedom broker, she travels undercover to global hot spots and handles risk management and kidnap negotiations. She hates to fly, yet here she is on a business jet, and things are suddenly not going well. The descriptions might make one hesitant to EVER fly again.
“The world tilts upward, the plane’s nose pitches skyward sharply. Thea’s right hand reached for the overhead compartment, her fingers connecting with the latch. She clung to it, but as it took her weight, the latch popped open. She lolled backward, then kipped herself forward, grabbing the inside lip with both hands. Like a rock climber hanging from a dangerous precipice, her body swung back and forth, teetering.”
In the midst of the turbulence, a man becomes ill, passes out. What is worse is that the pilot has locked the cabin door, preventing the co-pilot or crew from entering. It is clear that someone has gone to a lot of trouble to hijack this plane. Which passenger do they want, and why? Of course, Thea’s job now becomes re-hijacking the 737 as international forces ramp up for the rescue.
There are two story lines, one involving with the hijacked plane in the middle of the Libyan Desert, and the other in Innsbruck, Austria involving seventeen-year-old Johann Dietrich and his father, a successful weapons manufacturer with clients around the world.
Both scenarios are well developed and compelling. Chapters present multiple points of view and alternate between the storylines. There are clear definitions so readers follow the developments in each scenario.
The tension is thick in the air, and details jump from the page in breath holding action. Minute by minute the trauma increases, and explicit details to paint a dramatic picture.
“Bullets slammed into the steel around her extended arm. A sharp stab of pain. Unable to hold on, she dropped the rifle and pulled her arm back inside. Blood soaked the shirtsleeve just below the elbow.”
There are terrorists, traitors, hostages, political refugees, hidden agendas, sleeper cells, secret walls, keys, dungeons, bystanders both innocent and insidious, and just plain bad guys. Many do not make it out alive, and some deaths are very personal. The political conspiracy and international intrigue are as up to date as if the reports were on tonight’s news.
Even on a hijacked plane, there is always one … “I need my checked bag.” “Hand luggage only. This is a hijacking, not a connecting flight!” “But I have presents for my grandchildren.” “ Move.”
And I love that in the midst of the pursuit, Thea gets a tourist out of the way by sending her to a book signing at a bookstore around the corner.
I received a copy of “Skyjack” from J. K. Howe, Quercus, and NetGalley. This quote sums up the book:
“I woke up this morning thinking it’d be another run-of-the-mill flight, and I actually said to myself, I hope something exciting happens today. Be careful what you wish for.”
May 23, 2018
As someeone who has a family member with Marfan Syndrome, it was interesting to have a character in the book with the same diagnosis. Would have been better if the author stressed the importance of no isometric activities. No mention in the acknowledgement about the syndrome, which she did for diabetes. This would have been the perfect place. If you want to know more about the potentially life threatening disorder, go to www.marfan.org
The premise was interesting but it became a bit over the top at the end.
The premise was interesting but it became a bit over the top at the end.
April 21, 2018
Thanks to Quercus Books for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
When I read THE FREEDOM BROKER last year I absolutely loved Thea Paris. She's a strong female lead and doesn't take no for an answer as an International kidnap expert. This time she faces a case even harder than her last when she uncovers a CIA conspiracy like she's never seen before.
Thea is escorting two former child soldiers on a plane flying between Africa and London when the Boeing Business Jet is highjacked. The pilot has locked himself into the cockpit and diverts the plane to a deserted airstrip in Libya. Forced to leave the jet to investigate, Thea comes face-to-face with a former nemesis, an Italian who is part of Gladios, a secret stay-behind army created after WWII to fight communism. She finds herself locked in the hangar, and the plane takes off with the boys, the passengers, and the kidnapper aboard.
As if Thea didn't have enough to worry about, there is then a strange demand for the return of the hostages: she must deliver a truckload of weapons and other material to a destination in Europe. Thea digs up a conspiracy that connects the CIA, the Vatican, and the dark legacy of World War II, this case will bring all parties to an explosive conclusion at the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Another great political thriller! Its been a treat having them back to back - seems to be a genre blend I don't come across too often. Fast paced and good action, this was a hard one to put down! I'm so happy that Thea is back - we need more female leads in these crime fiction novels. I would highly recommend picking this one up, dont let the political element deter you, its more adventure and travel with some great conspiracy elements.
I give this 4.5/5 stars - rounded up for rating
When I read THE FREEDOM BROKER last year I absolutely loved Thea Paris. She's a strong female lead and doesn't take no for an answer as an International kidnap expert. This time she faces a case even harder than her last when she uncovers a CIA conspiracy like she's never seen before.
Thea is escorting two former child soldiers on a plane flying between Africa and London when the Boeing Business Jet is highjacked. The pilot has locked himself into the cockpit and diverts the plane to a deserted airstrip in Libya. Forced to leave the jet to investigate, Thea comes face-to-face with a former nemesis, an Italian who is part of Gladios, a secret stay-behind army created after WWII to fight communism. She finds herself locked in the hangar, and the plane takes off with the boys, the passengers, and the kidnapper aboard.
As if Thea didn't have enough to worry about, there is then a strange demand for the return of the hostages: she must deliver a truckload of weapons and other material to a destination in Europe. Thea digs up a conspiracy that connects the CIA, the Vatican, and the dark legacy of World War II, this case will bring all parties to an explosive conclusion at the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Another great political thriller! Its been a treat having them back to back - seems to be a genre blend I don't come across too often. Fast paced and good action, this was a hard one to put down! I'm so happy that Thea is back - we need more female leads in these crime fiction novels. I would highly recommend picking this one up, dont let the political element deter you, its more adventure and travel with some great conspiracy elements.
I give this 4.5/5 stars - rounded up for rating
November 6, 2021
K. J. Howe donosi nam nastavak Pregovaračice u identičnom, akcijskom trileru prepunom eksplozija, paralelnih radnji i napetosti. Oprez! Moguće da ćete pogristi nokte od uzbuđenja!
𝑲𝒂𝒅𝒂 𝒔𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝒏𝒂đ𝒆 𝒖 𝒛𝒓𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒖 𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒕𝒐𝒎 𝒏𝒆𝒈𝒅𝒋𝒆 𝒊𝒛𝒏𝒂𝒅 𝑳𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒋𝒔𝒌𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒋𝒆, 𝒏𝒋𝒆𝒛𝒊𝒏 𝒋𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒕 𝒑𝒐𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒕𝒊 𝒔𝒆 𝒛𝒂 𝒅𝒗𝒐𝒋𝒊𝒄𝒖 𝒅𝒋𝒆č𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝒔𝒑𝒂š𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒉 𝒊𝒛 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒂 𝒖 𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒊, 𝒌𝒐𝒋𝒊 𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒂 𝒔 𝒏𝒋𝒐𝒎 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒋𝒖 𝒌 𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒐𝒋 𝒐𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒋𝒊 𝒖 𝑳𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒏.
𝑲𝒂𝒐 𝒋𝒆𝒅𝒏𝒂 𝒐𝒅 𝒏𝒂𝒋𝒃𝒐𝒍𝒋𝒊𝒉 𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒌𝒊 𝒛𝒂 𝒐𝒕𝒎𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒊 𝒔𝒑𝒂š𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒋𝒆, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 ć𝒆 𝒔𝒆 𝒏𝒂ć𝒊 𝒖 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒂 𝒛𝒂 ž𝒊𝒗𝒐𝒕𝒆 𝒅𝒗𝒐𝒋𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒅𝒋𝒆č𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝒊 𝒔𝒗𝒊𝒉 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒏𝒊𝒌𝒂 𝒏𝒂 𝒛𝒓𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒖 – 𝒑𝒂 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒐 𝒊 𝒔𝒗𝒐𝒋 ž𝒊𝒗𝒐𝒕 – 𝒂 𝒋𝒆𝒅𝒂𝒏 𝒑𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆š𝒂𝒏 𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒛 𝒎𝒐ž𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊 𝒅𝒐 𝒔𝒎𝒓𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒔𝒏𝒊𝒉 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒍𝒋𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒂. 𝑵𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒏 š𝒕𝒐 𝒋𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒏𝒐 𝒐𝒅𝒗𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒏𝒂 𝒐𝒅 𝒅𝒋𝒆č𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝒊 𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒉 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒏𝒊𝒌𝒂, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝒊 𝒏𝒋𝒆𝒛𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒊𝒎 𝒃𝒓𝒛𝒐 ć𝒆 𝒔𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒗𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒋𝒊 𝒔𝒑𝒂š𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒋𝒂, 𝒊 𝒏𝒆 𝒔𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒆ć𝒊 𝒅𝒂 ć𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒐𝒎 𝒓𝒂𝒛𝒐𝒕𝒌𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒊 𝒛𝒂𝒗𝒋𝒆𝒓𝒖 𝑪𝑰𝑨-𝒆, 𝑽𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒌𝒂𝒏𝒂 𝒊 𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒋𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒇𝒊𝒋𝒆, 𝒅𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒌𝒐 𝒛𝒍𝒐𝒌𝒐𝒃𝒏𝒊𝒋𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒈𝒐 š𝒕𝒐 𝒋𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝒊𝒌𝒂𝒅 𝒎𝒐𝒈𝒍𝒂 𝒛𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒊.
Ukoliko niste počitali „Pregovaračicu“, nema veze, ovaj se roman može čitati samostalno, autorica se potrudila objasniti neke događaje od ranije, ali moja je preporuka da čitate jedan za drugim.
Od spašavanja otetih osoba i dva dječaka vojnika do pronalaska ljubavi i spašavanja svijeta od biokemijskog oružja. Ovaj roman ima sve – akciju, priču, napetost, ljubav i borbu.
Thea Paris u novom zadatku. Ovoga puta ima veliku odgovornost - mora prevesti dva dječaka vojnika u nov udomiteljski dom i pružiti im svjetlu budućnost i priliku za normalan život daleko od neprekidnog ratovanja i oružja. Igrom slučaja, ulazi u avion u kojem se nalaze bogataši, znanstvenici i jedan umirovljeni agent CIA–e. Drama počinje nasred Tihog oceana, nakon što se pilot ogluši na upute komunikacijskog centra i usmjeri avion na drugačiju rutu. Temperatura u avionu diže se do usijanja. Jedina nada za spas svih je upravo ono u čemu je Thea najbolja – pregovaranje.
„Ž𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘮𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘰 𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘥𝘢š𝘯𝘫𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘶𝘵𝘬𝘶, 𝘶 𝘱𝘶𝘬𝘰𝘮 𝘥𝘫𝘦𝘭𝘪ć𝘶 𝘷𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘢, 𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘬 𝘴𝘶 ž𝘪𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰š𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪 𝘯𝘦𝘪𝘻𝘷𝘫𝘦𝘴𝘯𝘢 𝘣𝘶𝘥𝘶ć𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵.“
U ovom nastavku čitatelj ponovno susreće Prospera, talijanskog mafijaša naziva el capo, promatra daljnji razvoj odnosa između Thee i Rifa (doduše, čini mi se da je taj aspekt ovoga puta dosta manje zastupljen), a spominju se i ostali ranije poznati likovi poput Nikosa (u obliku Theinih sjećanja, koje je autorica istakla kurzivom), Gabrielle i Christosa.
„𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘰 𝘨𝘢 𝘫𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘶č𝘪𝘰 𝘥𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘱𝘰š𝘵𝘰𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘫𝘦 𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘥 𝘳𝘶𝘬𝘶 𝘴 𝘵𝘶đ𝘪𝘮 𝘮𝘪š𝘭𝘫𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘦𝘮. 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘫𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘨𝘰 𝘣𝘪 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘰 𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘰 𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘷𝘶 𝘰𝘥𝘭𝘶𝘬𝘶, 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘰 𝘣𝘪 𝘰𝘥𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘰 𝘴𝘷𝘢 𝘮𝘪š𝘭𝘫𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘢 𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘷𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘣𝘪 𝘥𝘢 č𝘪𝘯𝘪 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘶 𝘴𝘵𝘷𝘢𝘳, 𝘶𝘮𝘫𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘬𝘶š𝘢 𝘶𝘥𝘰𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘫𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘦. Ž𝘪𝘷𝘰𝘵 𝘯𝘪𝘫𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘫𝘦 𝘶 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪.“
Stil pisanja autorice ostaje dinamičan, poglavlje za poglavljem radnja se zahuktava, a kad je najzanimljivije prekida ju paralelnim radnjama. Jedna od njih prati mladog Johanna i tajnu organizaciju naziva Čuvari slobode koji žele započeti treći svjetski rat pomoću biokemijskog oružja.
„𝘡𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘳𝘻𝘰 𝘳𝘢𝘻𝘷𝘪𝘫𝘢 𝘪 𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘮 𝘳𝘶𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘰š𝘬𝘰 𝘰𝘳𝘶ž𝘫𝘦 𝘮𝘰ž𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘶𝘴𝘮𝘫𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘰 𝘯𝘢 𝘵𝘰č𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘥𝘳𝘦đ𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘨 𝘱𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘢. 𝘖𝘯𝘰 š𝘵𝘰 𝘻𝘢 𝘰𝘱ć𝘶 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘫𝘶 𝘮𝘰ž𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘷𝘭𝘫𝘢𝘵𝘪 𝘵𝘦𝘬 𝘣𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘩𝘭𝘢𝘥𝘶 𝘪𝘭𝘪 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘶, 𝘻𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘬𝘰𝘨 𝘮𝘰ž𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘴𝘮𝘳𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘳𝘶𝘴.“
„𝘠𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝘱𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘴. 𝘗𝘰𝘵𝘳𝘢ž𝘪𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘮 𝘯𝘢𝘻𝘪𝘷 𝘵𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘬𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘫𝘦.“
𝘓𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘣𝘳𝘷𝘶.
„𝘐𝘮𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪ž𝘯𝘶 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘶 𝘴𝘮𝘳𝘵𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪 𝘰𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘷𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘰, 𝘢 ž𝘳𝘵𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘥𝘢 𝘬𝘳𝘰𝘻 𝘱𝘭𝘶ć𝘢.“
Kako su točno pripadnici tajne službe povezani s Theom Paris, hoće li Johann uspjeti u svom naumu i tko je mlada dama koja mu je osvojila srce te koja je poveznica tih događaja i šefa talijanske mafije s otetim zrakoplovom, ne ustručavajte se pročitati sami.
„𝘕𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘫𝘦š, 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘦. 𝘜 𝘜𝘈𝘌-𝘶 ž𝘦𝘯𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘫𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘢. 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵 ć𝘶 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘴𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘰 š𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘪 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘳𝘶𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪, 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪 š𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘯 ž𝘦𝘭𝘪 𝘥𝘢 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘮. 𝘕𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘨𝘶 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘫𝘦𝘵𝘪 𝘱𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘰 𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘰 𝘣𝘪𝘩 𝘮𝘰𝘨𝘭𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘶𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘢 𝘻𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘬𝘰𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘬𝘰 𝘮𝘪 𝘯𝘦ć𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪 𝘷𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘫𝘢𝘭𝘪š𝘵𝘢 (...)“
Preporuka ljubiteljima akcijskih romana, djela u kojima su glavni likovi jake žene, trilera s napetim tempom te ljubiteljima likova poput Jacka Reachera i James Bonda. Lik Thee Paris parira im rame uz rame pa se iskreno nadam da ovo neće biti zadnji roman u serijalu o toj iznimnoj ženi i neustrašivoj junakinji.
𝑲𝒂𝒅𝒂 𝒔𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝒏𝒂đ𝒆 𝒖 𝒛𝒓𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒖 𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒕𝒐𝒎 𝒏𝒆𝒈𝒅𝒋𝒆 𝒊𝒛𝒏𝒂𝒅 𝑳𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒋𝒔𝒌𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒋𝒆, 𝒏𝒋𝒆𝒛𝒊𝒏 𝒋𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒕 𝒑𝒐𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒕𝒊 𝒔𝒆 𝒛𝒂 𝒅𝒗𝒐𝒋𝒊𝒄𝒖 𝒅𝒋𝒆č𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝒔𝒑𝒂š𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒉 𝒊𝒛 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒂 𝒖 𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒊, 𝒌𝒐𝒋𝒊 𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒂 𝒔 𝒏𝒋𝒐𝒎 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒋𝒖 𝒌 𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒐𝒋 𝒐𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒋𝒊 𝒖 𝑳𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒏.
𝑲𝒂𝒐 𝒋𝒆𝒅𝒏𝒂 𝒐𝒅 𝒏𝒂𝒋𝒃𝒐𝒍𝒋𝒊𝒉 𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒌𝒊 𝒛𝒂 𝒐𝒕𝒎𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒊 𝒔𝒑𝒂š𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒋𝒆, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 ć𝒆 𝒔𝒆 𝒏𝒂ć𝒊 𝒖 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒂 𝒛𝒂 ž𝒊𝒗𝒐𝒕𝒆 𝒅𝒗𝒐𝒋𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒅𝒋𝒆č𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝒊 𝒔𝒗𝒊𝒉 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒏𝒊𝒌𝒂 𝒏𝒂 𝒛𝒓𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒖 – 𝒑𝒂 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒐 𝒊 𝒔𝒗𝒐𝒋 ž𝒊𝒗𝒐𝒕 – 𝒂 𝒋𝒆𝒅𝒂𝒏 𝒑𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆š𝒂𝒏 𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒛 𝒎𝒐ž𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊 𝒅𝒐 𝒔𝒎𝒓𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒔𝒏𝒊𝒉 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒍𝒋𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒂. 𝑵𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒏 š𝒕𝒐 𝒋𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒏𝒐 𝒐𝒅𝒗𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒏𝒂 𝒐𝒅 𝒅𝒋𝒆č𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝒊 𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒉 𝒑𝒖𝒕𝒏𝒊𝒌𝒂, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝒊 𝒏𝒋𝒆𝒛𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒊𝒎 𝒃𝒓𝒛𝒐 ć𝒆 𝒔𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒗𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒊 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒋𝒊 𝒔𝒑𝒂š𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒋𝒂, 𝒊 𝒏𝒆 𝒔𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒆ć𝒊 𝒅𝒂 ć𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒐𝒎 𝒓𝒂𝒛𝒐𝒕𝒌𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒊 𝒛𝒂𝒗𝒋𝒆𝒓𝒖 𝑪𝑰𝑨-𝒆, 𝑽𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒌𝒂𝒏𝒂 𝒊 𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒋𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒇𝒊𝒋𝒆, 𝒅𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒌𝒐 𝒛𝒍𝒐𝒌𝒐𝒃𝒏𝒊𝒋𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒈𝒐 š𝒕𝒐 𝒋𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝒊𝒌𝒂𝒅 𝒎𝒐𝒈𝒍𝒂 𝒛𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒊.
Ukoliko niste počitali „Pregovaračicu“, nema veze, ovaj se roman može čitati samostalno, autorica se potrudila objasniti neke događaje od ranije, ali moja je preporuka da čitate jedan za drugim.
Od spašavanja otetih osoba i dva dječaka vojnika do pronalaska ljubavi i spašavanja svijeta od biokemijskog oružja. Ovaj roman ima sve – akciju, priču, napetost, ljubav i borbu.
Thea Paris u novom zadatku. Ovoga puta ima veliku odgovornost - mora prevesti dva dječaka vojnika u nov udomiteljski dom i pružiti im svjetlu budućnost i priliku za normalan život daleko od neprekidnog ratovanja i oružja. Igrom slučaja, ulazi u avion u kojem se nalaze bogataši, znanstvenici i jedan umirovljeni agent CIA–e. Drama počinje nasred Tihog oceana, nakon što se pilot ogluši na upute komunikacijskog centra i usmjeri avion na drugačiju rutu. Temperatura u avionu diže se do usijanja. Jedina nada za spas svih je upravo ono u čemu je Thea najbolja – pregovaranje.
„Ž𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘮𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘰 𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘥𝘢š𝘯𝘫𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘶𝘵𝘬𝘶, 𝘶 𝘱𝘶𝘬𝘰𝘮 𝘥𝘫𝘦𝘭𝘪ć𝘶 𝘷𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘢, 𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘬 𝘴𝘶 ž𝘪𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰š𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪 𝘯𝘦𝘪𝘻𝘷𝘫𝘦𝘴𝘯𝘢 𝘣𝘶𝘥𝘶ć𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵.“
U ovom nastavku čitatelj ponovno susreće Prospera, talijanskog mafijaša naziva el capo, promatra daljnji razvoj odnosa između Thee i Rifa (doduše, čini mi se da je taj aspekt ovoga puta dosta manje zastupljen), a spominju se i ostali ranije poznati likovi poput Nikosa (u obliku Theinih sjećanja, koje je autorica istakla kurzivom), Gabrielle i Christosa.
„𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘰 𝘨𝘢 𝘫𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘶č𝘪𝘰 𝘥𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘱𝘰š𝘵𝘰𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘫𝘦 𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘥 𝘳𝘶𝘬𝘶 𝘴 𝘵𝘶đ𝘪𝘮 𝘮𝘪š𝘭𝘫𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘦𝘮. 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘫𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘨𝘰 𝘣𝘪 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘰 𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘰 𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘷𝘶 𝘰𝘥𝘭𝘶𝘬𝘶, 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘰 𝘣𝘪 𝘰𝘥𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘰 𝘴𝘷𝘢 𝘮𝘪š𝘭𝘫𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘢 𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘷𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘣𝘪 𝘥𝘢 č𝘪𝘯𝘪 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘶 𝘴𝘵𝘷𝘢𝘳, 𝘶𝘮𝘫𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘬𝘶š𝘢 𝘶𝘥𝘰𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘫𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘦. Ž𝘪𝘷𝘰𝘵 𝘯𝘪𝘫𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘫𝘦 𝘶 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪.“
Stil pisanja autorice ostaje dinamičan, poglavlje za poglavljem radnja se zahuktava, a kad je najzanimljivije prekida ju paralelnim radnjama. Jedna od njih prati mladog Johanna i tajnu organizaciju naziva Čuvari slobode koji žele započeti treći svjetski rat pomoću biokemijskog oružja.
„𝘡𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘳𝘻𝘰 𝘳𝘢𝘻𝘷𝘪𝘫𝘢 𝘪 𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘮 𝘳𝘶𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘰š𝘬𝘰 𝘰𝘳𝘶ž𝘫𝘦 𝘮𝘰ž𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘶𝘴𝘮𝘫𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘰 𝘯𝘢 𝘵𝘰č𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘥𝘳𝘦đ𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘨 𝘱𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘢. 𝘖𝘯𝘰 š𝘵𝘰 𝘻𝘢 𝘰𝘱ć𝘶 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘫𝘶 𝘮𝘰ž𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘷𝘭𝘫𝘢𝘵𝘪 𝘵𝘦𝘬 𝘣𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘩𝘭𝘢𝘥𝘶 𝘪𝘭𝘪 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘶, 𝘻𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘬𝘰𝘨 𝘮𝘰ž𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘴𝘮𝘳𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘳𝘶𝘴.“
„𝘠𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝘱𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘴. 𝘗𝘰𝘵𝘳𝘢ž𝘪𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘮 𝘯𝘢𝘻𝘪𝘷 𝘵𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘬𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘫𝘦.“
𝘓𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘣𝘳𝘷𝘶.
„𝘐𝘮𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪ž𝘯𝘶 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘶 𝘴𝘮𝘳𝘵𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘪 𝘰𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘷𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘰, 𝘢 ž𝘳𝘵𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘥𝘢 𝘬𝘳𝘰𝘻 𝘱𝘭𝘶ć𝘢.“
Kako su točno pripadnici tajne službe povezani s Theom Paris, hoće li Johann uspjeti u svom naumu i tko je mlada dama koja mu je osvojila srce te koja je poveznica tih događaja i šefa talijanske mafije s otetim zrakoplovom, ne ustručavajte se pročitati sami.
„𝘕𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘫𝘦š, 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘦. 𝘜 𝘜𝘈𝘌-𝘶 ž𝘦𝘯𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘫𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘢. 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵 ć𝘶 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘴𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘰 š𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘪 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘳𝘶𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪, 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪 š𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘯 ž𝘦𝘭𝘪 𝘥𝘢 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘮. 𝘕𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘨𝘶 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘫𝘦𝘵𝘪 𝘱𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘰 𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘰 𝘣𝘪𝘩 𝘮𝘰𝘨𝘭𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘶𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘢 𝘻𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘬𝘰𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘬𝘰 𝘮𝘪 𝘯𝘦ć𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘪 𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪 𝘷𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘫𝘢𝘭𝘪š𝘵𝘢 (...)“
Preporuka ljubiteljima akcijskih romana, djela u kojima su glavni likovi jake žene, trilera s napetim tempom te ljubiteljima likova poput Jacka Reachera i James Bonda. Lik Thee Paris parira im rame uz rame pa se iskreno nadam da ovo neće biti zadnji roman u serijalu o toj iznimnoj ženi i neustrašivoj junakinji.
March 30, 2018
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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When it comes to imminent threats in this book, believe it or not, that's not the worst.
So Thea is escorting a couple of former child-soldiers from their orphanage in Africa to their new parents when the jet they're on is taken over by the pilot and lands near an out-of-the-way and nearly deserted hanger. Thea is separated from the other passengers -- including the boys -- who are taken to another site. She soon discovers that this was, in part, orchestrated by an Italian mob boss she'd tangled with before in a roundabout way of hiring Quantum International Security and getting them to adhere to a very strict deadline (I'm oversimplifying, obviously, but that's the essence).
Both the hijacking and the task set before them put Thea, Rif and the rest of the company right in the middle of overlapping schemes involving secret armies that have been active since the end of World War II. These were originally set up to be the core of the resistance against Communist invasion, but in the intervening decades may have evolved into something else. Something scary.
Howe nails the interweaving storylines -- there's the hijacking story, and the plight of the passengers who aren't Thea; there's the tasks that the hijackers impose on Thea for their safe return; there's whatever else the Italian mob is up to; there's an Austrian secret army set out to attack a threat they perceive as more dire than the Communists they were set up to fight; and there's one person who is out to stop the Austrians. These are all grounded by some good interpersonal stories and moments. The plotting and pacing are tight and believable. Howe will suck you in and keep you turning the pages.
Howe can write action scenes that stack up with the best. The events on the plane were dynamite -- I knew Thea would make it, but I could've believed just about anything else would happen. Also, it's going to be awhile before I think of those locked cabin doors in the same positive way we're supposed to. There's some great combat scenes, a few action scenes that might as well be on a movie screen.
My complaints are pretty minor, really. I thought a lot of the emotional motivations for behaviors were a tad shallow or rushed, all of them were valid and honest to the characters -- I just think they could've been written better. It's tough to pick out examples without entering spoiler territory. So let me vaguely mention that the level of hate spouted by the head of the Austrian group, and the way he expressed it, sounds more like a guy spouting off on Twitter than a very successful businessman who is charismatic enough to get many to commit to a cause. The growing/evolving relationship between Thea and Rif continues the path begun in The Freedom Broker. and Howe could've been more subtle and less repetitive showing that. I do enjoy watching this -- and figure I will over a few books.
I enjoyed this ride -- it had the requisite twists and turns, exciting, tense, well-paced -- everything you want in a thriller. It ticked off just about every box you want in a thriller. Yes, it was lacking that certain je ne sais quoi that kicks it up into the "I'm excited to read" level, but I'm pleased I did and will keep my eyes peeled for Thea Paris #3.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Quercus Books via NetGalley in exchange for this post -- thanks to both for this.
N.B.: As this was an ARC, any quotations above may be changed in the published work -- I will endeavor to verify them as soon as possible.
---
Waiting for the call to be patched through, Thea stared at the black and yellow symbol on the canisters. It wasn’t every day she was in the same room with enough nuclear material to start World War Three.
When it comes to imminent threats in this book, believe it or not, that's not the worst.
So Thea is escorting a couple of former child-soldiers from their orphanage in Africa to their new parents when the jet they're on is taken over by the pilot and lands near an out-of-the-way and nearly deserted hanger. Thea is separated from the other passengers -- including the boys -- who are taken to another site. She soon discovers that this was, in part, orchestrated by an Italian mob boss she'd tangled with before in a roundabout way of hiring Quantum International Security and getting them to adhere to a very strict deadline (I'm oversimplifying, obviously, but that's the essence).
Both the hijacking and the task set before them put Thea, Rif and the rest of the company right in the middle of overlapping schemes involving secret armies that have been active since the end of World War II. These were originally set up to be the core of the resistance against Communist invasion, but in the intervening decades may have evolved into something else. Something scary.
Howe nails the interweaving storylines -- there's the hijacking story, and the plight of the passengers who aren't Thea; there's the tasks that the hijackers impose on Thea for their safe return; there's whatever else the Italian mob is up to; there's an Austrian secret army set out to attack a threat they perceive as more dire than the Communists they were set up to fight; and there's one person who is out to stop the Austrians. These are all grounded by some good interpersonal stories and moments. The plotting and pacing are tight and believable. Howe will suck you in and keep you turning the pages.
Howe can write action scenes that stack up with the best. The events on the plane were dynamite -- I knew Thea would make it, but I could've believed just about anything else would happen. Also, it's going to be awhile before I think of those locked cabin doors in the same positive way we're supposed to. There's some great combat scenes, a few action scenes that might as well be on a movie screen.
My complaints are pretty minor, really. I thought a lot of the emotional motivations for behaviors were a tad shallow or rushed, all of them were valid and honest to the characters -- I just think they could've been written better. It's tough to pick out examples without entering spoiler territory. So let me vaguely mention that the level of hate spouted by the head of the Austrian group, and the way he expressed it, sounds more like a guy spouting off on Twitter than a very successful businessman who is charismatic enough to get many to commit to a cause. The growing/evolving relationship between Thea and Rif continues the path begun in The Freedom Broker. and Howe could've been more subtle and less repetitive showing that. I do enjoy watching this -- and figure I will over a few books.
I enjoyed this ride -- it had the requisite twists and turns, exciting, tense, well-paced -- everything you want in a thriller. It ticked off just about every box you want in a thriller. Yes, it was lacking that certain je ne sais quoi that kicks it up into the "I'm excited to read" level, but I'm pleased I did and will keep my eyes peeled for Thea Paris #3.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Quercus Books via NetGalley in exchange for this post -- thanks to both for this.
N.B.: As this was an ARC, any quotations above may be changed in the published work -- I will endeavor to verify them as soon as possible.
April 12, 2018
I received a copy of Skyjack from BookishFirst in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Skyjack is the second book in the Thea Paris series (the first one being The Freedom Broker), though for the sake of honesty I have tell you that I didn’t know that before I started reading this novel. While I’m sure I missed quite a bit of backstory and character development by missing out on Freedom Broker, I was able to read and fully understand Skyjack with no issues. So reading the first one isn’t technically a requirement (though I’ll admit I’m very curious about what happened in the first novel – it was alluded to several times, but never to the point of outright repeating the first book’s plot).
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Skyjack is the second book in the Thea Paris series (the first one being The Freedom Broker), though for the sake of honesty I have tell you that I didn’t know that before I started reading this novel. While I’m sure I missed quite a bit of backstory and character development by missing out on Freedom Broker, I was able to read and fully understand Skyjack with no issues. So reading the first one isn’t technically a requirement (though I’ll admit I’m very curious about what happened in the first novel – it was alluded to several times, but never to the point of outright repeating the first book’s plot).
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
March 4, 2019
Skyjack jumped out from a library shelf, and I am so glad I picked it up. It is a first rate thriller that will keep you hooked from the first page to the last.
The author has created a terrific cast of characters that includes kidnap specialist Thea Paris who is escorting two charming children - Jabari and Ayan who were abducted in the past, by Boko Haram to become child soldiers.
Will she manage to find the boys after they are separated by a terrorist gang?
Perfect movie material.
The author has created a terrific cast of characters that includes kidnap specialist Thea Paris who is escorting two charming children - Jabari and Ayan who were abducted in the past, by Boko Haram to become child soldiers.
Will she manage to find the boys after they are separated by a terrorist gang?
Perfect movie material.
December 18, 2019
I loved every minute of reading this book! Such a great storyline with several huge twists mixed in along the way! Love how Thea mixed with everyone she came in contact with and how smart she was about putting things in play. Phenomenal hero to go along with the rest of her team!
August 7, 2025
As always, couldn't put it down, gonna miss you Thea. For my own sake, go get that dinner with Rif and keep your sugar level lowwww.
April 19, 2018
Thanks to Quercus and BookishFirst for a free copy of this book for review!
Thea Paris has precious cargo on her way back to London, in the form of two children she's escorting to their adoptive parents. Thus, when the plane is hijacked and it's up to her to perform a mission and save the hostages, the stakes are high- and personal.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable, high stakes thriller with a competent, intriguing heroine (and the author's choice to make her a type 1 diabetic and how she wove that into the story was a really interesting choice). From the cover, title, and description, I was expecting a story that was a little drier, but the author manages to make this a story with emotion (not sappy, just by developing characters and their relationships well) as well as a really chilling story about a biological weapon.
While this is the second book in the series, it works fine as a standalone (though I'm sure the experience would be enhanced by having read the first story).
Thea Paris has precious cargo on her way back to London, in the form of two children she's escorting to their adoptive parents. Thus, when the plane is hijacked and it's up to her to perform a mission and save the hostages, the stakes are high- and personal.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable, high stakes thriller with a competent, intriguing heroine (and the author's choice to make her a type 1 diabetic and how she wove that into the story was a really interesting choice). From the cover, title, and description, I was expecting a story that was a little drier, but the author manages to make this a story with emotion (not sappy, just by developing characters and their relationships well) as well as a really chilling story about a biological weapon.
While this is the second book in the series, it works fine as a standalone (though I'm sure the experience would be enhanced by having read the first story).
June 26, 2021
One of the things I most admire about K.J. Howe is the honesty she brings to everything she touches. Whether it’s a novel, running the prestigious Thrillerfest in New York each summer, or how she gracefully attends to those friends around her, when you meet KJ, you instantly get that.
When you read Skyjack, you’ll also get a sense of “she knows what she’s talking about, because she’s lived it.” At least, in part. While I didn’t read her debut novel, The Freedom Broker, I can only imagine it had to have been just as powerful as Skyjack. And look, I’m a sucker for a female protagonist; especially one who’s as tough-as-nails, like her lead character, Thea Paris.
Here’s a quick intro: Thea Paris is shepherding two African orphans from Nairobi to their new adoptive home in London when the plane they are on is hijacked. The CIA, the Vatican, the Sicilian mob, and a secret stay-behind army from the Second World War makes this SKYJACK much more than a flight gone wrong.
Okay, you’ve got me hooked right there. You know the lead is a female with strong mother instincts, but has several layers of expertise where she’s willing to put her life on the line to save two kids who aren’t hers. Next, you incorporate a massive government group, the largest church in the world, and sprinkle in the mob (and Sicilian at that), and you know you’re in for the ride of your life. Or shall I say, flight of your life!
I won’t spoil it (nobody likes that), but I will say this book keeps you turning pages right up to the end. Read this book, and you—like myself—will understand why the name K.J. Howe is destined to remain among the bestseller lists for years to come.
For the record, I had neither spent much time reading—nor knew much about—books about kidnapping and ransom. But this opened my eyes to that world, as well as opened my eyes to the fact that K.J. has carved out her very own niche. I like that.
In closing, you’ll quickly see her solid grasp of storytelling. You’ll also discover just how much research she puts into a book. She’s not into rushing things, as you can imagine given the amount of time between books, but then when they’re this good, it’s worth the wait.
My only beef? It ended too quickly. But then, I guess that’s a good problem to have. If you like fine details, superb research, plausible storylines, likable characters (and some, not so likable), plus a novel that doesn’t drag anywhere, but moves with a grace and ease of a long-seasoned writer, you’ll find yourself searching the bookshelves for the next K.J. Howe thriller.
Action, bravery and chaos take place in the sky, at the hands of a brave new protagonist named Thea Paris.
Bravo, K.J.
Friendly disclaimers: I was provided a copy of this book in preparation for having Ms. Howe on my podcast. My apologies for just now posting this review. If you’re interested in hearing her insights, please tune into The Thriller Zone Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
When you read Skyjack, you’ll also get a sense of “she knows what she’s talking about, because she’s lived it.” At least, in part. While I didn’t read her debut novel, The Freedom Broker, I can only imagine it had to have been just as powerful as Skyjack. And look, I’m a sucker for a female protagonist; especially one who’s as tough-as-nails, like her lead character, Thea Paris.
Here’s a quick intro: Thea Paris is shepherding two African orphans from Nairobi to their new adoptive home in London when the plane they are on is hijacked. The CIA, the Vatican, the Sicilian mob, and a secret stay-behind army from the Second World War makes this SKYJACK much more than a flight gone wrong.
Okay, you’ve got me hooked right there. You know the lead is a female with strong mother instincts, but has several layers of expertise where she’s willing to put her life on the line to save two kids who aren’t hers. Next, you incorporate a massive government group, the largest church in the world, and sprinkle in the mob (and Sicilian at that), and you know you’re in for the ride of your life. Or shall I say, flight of your life!
I won’t spoil it (nobody likes that), but I will say this book keeps you turning pages right up to the end. Read this book, and you—like myself—will understand why the name K.J. Howe is destined to remain among the bestseller lists for years to come.
For the record, I had neither spent much time reading—nor knew much about—books about kidnapping and ransom. But this opened my eyes to that world, as well as opened my eyes to the fact that K.J. has carved out her very own niche. I like that.
In closing, you’ll quickly see her solid grasp of storytelling. You’ll also discover just how much research she puts into a book. She’s not into rushing things, as you can imagine given the amount of time between books, but then when they’re this good, it’s worth the wait.
My only beef? It ended too quickly. But then, I guess that’s a good problem to have. If you like fine details, superb research, plausible storylines, likable characters (and some, not so likable), plus a novel that doesn’t drag anywhere, but moves with a grace and ease of a long-seasoned writer, you’ll find yourself searching the bookshelves for the next K.J. Howe thriller.
Action, bravery and chaos take place in the sky, at the hands of a brave new protagonist named Thea Paris.
Bravo, K.J.
Friendly disclaimers: I was provided a copy of this book in preparation for having Ms. Howe on my podcast. My apologies for just now posting this review. If you’re interested in hearing her insights, please tune into The Thriller Zone Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
May 4, 2021
K.J. Howe’s thriller SKYJACK takes readers behind the scenes of the kidnap and ransom (K&R) industry. She begins building the intense suspense and intrigue from the first by grabbing her readers’ attention by placing them in the middle of a skyjacking. Howe shares details of each of the critical characters giving their backstories, and like the story, proceeds to add additional information enhancing each essential figure in the storyline. The author takes time to provide readers an inside look at what makes her protagonist, Thea Paris tick. Readers immediately see Thea knows how to handle the complex skyjacking that involves secret agencies, dangerous criminals, and brutal attacks on innocent people.
The storyline has several subplots increasing the pace of the plot. Readers see how Thea uses all of the tools and influence her company Quantum International Security has available in hostage situations. Howe’s support characters add to the intrigue as they provide Thea backup as she works to find a solution to the demands of the antagonist holding the hostages captive. The intricate storyline has action, manipulation, betrayal, international political intrigue, murder, and a look at the importance of Thea’s family relationships.
The author places readers inside Thea’s head so they can experience the action of unfolding events. Momentum increases when Thea finds the hostages are only a means to what the kidnappers are actually planning. The storyline never slows down as Howe creates intrigue on every page giving readers a need to keep turning the pages to see how Thea deals with the gang of hostage takers. The author introduces twists and turns plus a few surprises. Readers find themselves sitting on Thea’s shoulder as she deals with the kidnapping and the brutal attacks on innocent people.
SKYJACK Is a heart-wrenching suspense thriller showing the far-reaching effects on innocent people, family members, and friends. Howe’s readers will not be disappointed in her Thea Paris Novels delivering new intriguing and thrilling. SKYJACK helps Howe’s readers embrace the human side of Thea Paris. Her book is a must read and earns a five-star ranking.
The storyline has several subplots increasing the pace of the plot. Readers see how Thea uses all of the tools and influence her company Quantum International Security has available in hostage situations. Howe’s support characters add to the intrigue as they provide Thea backup as she works to find a solution to the demands of the antagonist holding the hostages captive. The intricate storyline has action, manipulation, betrayal, international political intrigue, murder, and a look at the importance of Thea’s family relationships.
The author places readers inside Thea’s head so they can experience the action of unfolding events. Momentum increases when Thea finds the hostages are only a means to what the kidnappers are actually planning. The storyline never slows down as Howe creates intrigue on every page giving readers a need to keep turning the pages to see how Thea deals with the gang of hostage takers. The author introduces twists and turns plus a few surprises. Readers find themselves sitting on Thea’s shoulder as she deals with the kidnapping and the brutal attacks on innocent people.
SKYJACK Is a heart-wrenching suspense thriller showing the far-reaching effects on innocent people, family members, and friends. Howe’s readers will not be disappointed in her Thea Paris Novels delivering new intriguing and thrilling. SKYJACK helps Howe’s readers embrace the human side of Thea Paris. Her book is a must read and earns a five-star ranking.
January 8, 2022
Book Review - Skyjack was a great follow-up to KJ Howe's first book, The Freedom Broker. Skyjack started off exciting, and it never ended throughout the entire book. Although reading the first book of the series is not necessary, I would recommend it as it provides some back story that will help with some details in Skyjack that will make a little more sense. However, if you choose to simply dive into Skyjack without reading The Freedom Broker, you are still in for a ‘thrilling’ ride. The book kicks off with a scene that could give anyone with a fear of flying mild anxiety, but it starts with a pulse pounding scene that also introduces you to Thea Paris, a powerful woman with amazing courage. KJ Howe also wastes no time in diving into some of the details revealed in the first novel of the series, like that Thea Paris is diabetic (hence, the zero-sugar drink pictured with this review). The book never slows down, and I think Thea Paris is one of the strongest female protagonists in the thriller genre. She and the Quantum team of Kidnap & Ransom specialists are what blockbuster action movie material are made of! This book has it all – a “Broken Arrow” (a military term for an accident involving nuclear weapons), skyjacking (of course), mobsters, kidnapping, terrorist plots, boat chases, and numerous intense shoot outs. At times it seems like a little too much, but overall, it was a fast paced, enjoyable, and suspenseful thriller. I especially appreciate the tremendous amount of research by Howe. It shows in the storyline how details and accuracy make the story. Howe takes the reader to numerous locations and the descriptions were so rich and vivid I truly felt like I was there. This book is a must read for anyone who is a fan of the thriller genre, or just likes an exciting book in general. I cannot recommend it enough.
April 10, 2018
She’d learned everything she could about planes and safety, hoping the knowledge would ease her anxiety. It didn’t.’
Canadian author K.J. Howe attended Salzburg International Preparatory School, Neuchâtel Junior College, and Albert College before earning a Specialists Degree in Business from the University of Toronto. KJ found success in the corporate world, but her passion for travel, adventure, and stories drew her back to school where she earned a Masters in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She has also worked as a medical, health, and fitness expert and she has global experiences riding racing camels in Jordan, surfing in Hawaii, ziplining in the Costa Rican jungle, diving alongside Great White Sharks in South Africa, studying modern combat in the Arizona desert, and working with elephants in Botswana. She is the executive director of ThrillerFest, the annual conference of International Thriller Writers. Her debut novel (and the first book of the Thea Paris Series) was THE FREEDOM BROKER. Now she presents Book 2 of the Thea Paris Series with SKYJACK. As far as a description of the ongoing series KJ states ‘There are twenty-five elite kidnap and ransom (K&R) specialists in the world. Only one is a woman: Thea Paris. And she's the best in the business.’
From KJ’s site we learn more about her chosen heroine: ‘Born in New York, Thea Paris globetrotted with her oil billionaire father Christos and older brother Nikos, soaking in the different cultures and languages from the numerous countries they lived in. Sadly, Thea lost her mother in a sailing accident at Martha’s Vineyard when she was quite young, so she never had a female role model. She developed a passion for racing cars, motorcycling, and scuba diving—a virtual adrenaline junkie. But tragedy struck the Paris family again when twelve-year-old Nikos was abducted in Africa. Even though her brother returned home nine months later, he was never the same. Deeply affected by the abduction, Thea devoted her time and energy to becoming a kidnap negotiator, determined to help families who had also been victimized. To prepare for the demands of negotiating with criminals in foreign countries, Thea completed a Master’s Degree in International Relations at Georgetown and learned five languages. After graduating, she secured a position with the Defense Intelligence Agency for three years. Finally, she trained under two mentors at a London-based elite kidnapping response firm called Quantum Security International. Her bag is always packed and by the door, ready to support a hostage’s family and bring their loved one home. Thea suffers from Type 1 Diabetes. Since insulin isn’t readily available in some of the hotspots she works in, she must prepare carefully for her travels. Life with T1 diabetes isn’t easy, but she refuses to let the condition get in the way of her calling. Thea’s love life is a bit of a disaster. Men tend to lose interest when their girlfriend disappears for weeks at a time. Instead, she cuddles up with her Rhodesian Ridgeback Aegis who she shares with her father.’
With that degree of insight both as to author and heroine the plot unravels tightly: ‘International kidnap expert Thea Paris is escorting two former child soldiers on a plane from an orphanage in Kanzi, Africa, to adoptive parents in London when the Boeing Business Jet is hijacked and forced to land on a deserted airstrip in the Libyan desert. On the ground, Thea comes face-to-face with a former nemesis, a Sicilian don who wants something, or someone, on that plane. Her old foe imprisons her in the hangar and takes to the air with the boys and the passengers still aboard, mysteriously demanding that Thea use the resources of Quantum International to hijack a truckload of Syrian refugees bound for Budapest. He makes it clear he will return the passengers only when the truck and its contents are in his possession. Thea, Rif, and the Quantum team must race against the clock to discover the don's true motives before any harm comes to the two boys and their fellow passengers. Revealing a deadly conspiracy that connects the dark postwar legacy of World War II to the present, this case will bring all parties to an explosive conclusion that will decide the fate of millions across Europe and the Middle East.’
And after a ripping Prologue that sets the pace for the novel, KJ brings Thea into focus in the opening paragraph –‘ Thea Paris felt as if she were trapped inside a giant cocktail shaker. Up, down, side to side—the turbulence delivered a walloping to the 737. A sheen of sweat dampened her forehead, her vision was blurred, and the world felt slightly off-kilter. Was her blood sugar out of whack? A quick glance at the app on her phone: 110. All under control. Her nerves, not so much. Modern airliners were resilient enough to ride out severe turbulence without coming apart or falling out of the sky, but that knowledge didn’t help her feel any better. She just hated flying. Maybe it was the lack of control that drove her crazy? Rif Asker—her colleague and longtime friend—was an ace pilot, and he gently chided her about how she was able to remain calm under enormous duress in her job, while the sound of jet engines firing up rattled her to the core. Well, Rif wasn’t there today, and air travel was an essential part of being a crisis response consultant, the industry term for a kidnap negotiator.’
And that is only the beginning of this spine tingling thriller. KJ Howe molds a tale that completely absorbs the reader and the end result is a degree of anxiety as to how soon the next installment will be. Excellent on every level.
Canadian author K.J. Howe attended Salzburg International Preparatory School, Neuchâtel Junior College, and Albert College before earning a Specialists Degree in Business from the University of Toronto. KJ found success in the corporate world, but her passion for travel, adventure, and stories drew her back to school where she earned a Masters in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She has also worked as a medical, health, and fitness expert and she has global experiences riding racing camels in Jordan, surfing in Hawaii, ziplining in the Costa Rican jungle, diving alongside Great White Sharks in South Africa, studying modern combat in the Arizona desert, and working with elephants in Botswana. She is the executive director of ThrillerFest, the annual conference of International Thriller Writers. Her debut novel (and the first book of the Thea Paris Series) was THE FREEDOM BROKER. Now she presents Book 2 of the Thea Paris Series with SKYJACK. As far as a description of the ongoing series KJ states ‘There are twenty-five elite kidnap and ransom (K&R) specialists in the world. Only one is a woman: Thea Paris. And she's the best in the business.’
From KJ’s site we learn more about her chosen heroine: ‘Born in New York, Thea Paris globetrotted with her oil billionaire father Christos and older brother Nikos, soaking in the different cultures and languages from the numerous countries they lived in. Sadly, Thea lost her mother in a sailing accident at Martha’s Vineyard when she was quite young, so she never had a female role model. She developed a passion for racing cars, motorcycling, and scuba diving—a virtual adrenaline junkie. But tragedy struck the Paris family again when twelve-year-old Nikos was abducted in Africa. Even though her brother returned home nine months later, he was never the same. Deeply affected by the abduction, Thea devoted her time and energy to becoming a kidnap negotiator, determined to help families who had also been victimized. To prepare for the demands of negotiating with criminals in foreign countries, Thea completed a Master’s Degree in International Relations at Georgetown and learned five languages. After graduating, she secured a position with the Defense Intelligence Agency for three years. Finally, she trained under two mentors at a London-based elite kidnapping response firm called Quantum Security International. Her bag is always packed and by the door, ready to support a hostage’s family and bring their loved one home. Thea suffers from Type 1 Diabetes. Since insulin isn’t readily available in some of the hotspots she works in, she must prepare carefully for her travels. Life with T1 diabetes isn’t easy, but she refuses to let the condition get in the way of her calling. Thea’s love life is a bit of a disaster. Men tend to lose interest when their girlfriend disappears for weeks at a time. Instead, she cuddles up with her Rhodesian Ridgeback Aegis who she shares with her father.’
With that degree of insight both as to author and heroine the plot unravels tightly: ‘International kidnap expert Thea Paris is escorting two former child soldiers on a plane from an orphanage in Kanzi, Africa, to adoptive parents in London when the Boeing Business Jet is hijacked and forced to land on a deserted airstrip in the Libyan desert. On the ground, Thea comes face-to-face with a former nemesis, a Sicilian don who wants something, or someone, on that plane. Her old foe imprisons her in the hangar and takes to the air with the boys and the passengers still aboard, mysteriously demanding that Thea use the resources of Quantum International to hijack a truckload of Syrian refugees bound for Budapest. He makes it clear he will return the passengers only when the truck and its contents are in his possession. Thea, Rif, and the Quantum team must race against the clock to discover the don's true motives before any harm comes to the two boys and their fellow passengers. Revealing a deadly conspiracy that connects the dark postwar legacy of World War II to the present, this case will bring all parties to an explosive conclusion that will decide the fate of millions across Europe and the Middle East.’
And after a ripping Prologue that sets the pace for the novel, KJ brings Thea into focus in the opening paragraph –‘ Thea Paris felt as if she were trapped inside a giant cocktail shaker. Up, down, side to side—the turbulence delivered a walloping to the 737. A sheen of sweat dampened her forehead, her vision was blurred, and the world felt slightly off-kilter. Was her blood sugar out of whack? A quick glance at the app on her phone: 110. All under control. Her nerves, not so much. Modern airliners were resilient enough to ride out severe turbulence without coming apart or falling out of the sky, but that knowledge didn’t help her feel any better. She just hated flying. Maybe it was the lack of control that drove her crazy? Rif Asker—her colleague and longtime friend—was an ace pilot, and he gently chided her about how she was able to remain calm under enormous duress in her job, while the sound of jet engines firing up rattled her to the core. Well, Rif wasn’t there today, and air travel was an essential part of being a crisis response consultant, the industry term for a kidnap negotiator.’
And that is only the beginning of this spine tingling thriller. KJ Howe molds a tale that completely absorbs the reader and the end result is a degree of anxiety as to how soon the next installment will be. Excellent on every level.
October 24, 2019
“Skyjack” is the second book of the Thea Paris series. No knowledge of the first book is required as the backstory is introduced through the narrative when required, but you may want to read the first book first if you want to avoid spoilers for it.
In this book Thea, “a crisis response consultant, the industry term for a kidnap negotiator”, is transporting two children from an African orphanage for war-affected kids she funds to the UK where they are being adopted. But things go wrong when the plane she is on is skyjacked. “Instead of meeting Papa at Heathrow and introducing Ayan and Jabari to their adoptive family, she was trapped inside a hijacked plane in the Libyan Desert, surrounded by armed men. One man was dead, one was unconscious, and eleven hostages were now relying on her to make the right decisions to get them out of this situation alive.”
The book follows three strands that come together: the Thea strand from two angles (Thea’s and the kidnapper’s), and an Austrian strand where a bioweapon is about to be deployed. “A bioweapon can be targeted at a specific individual. What might be a mild cold or flu to the general population could be a deadly virus for one person.” This bioweapon is targeted to kill the Arab population but father, who is anti-Muslim, and son, whose girlfriend is of Arab descent, have a difference of opinion on it leading to that plotline getting involved in the main plot.
Also good about the book is that it shows Thea overcoming her type 1 diabetes condition as she goes about her job which can act as an inspiring story for others. In the first book she kept her condition secret from her team but now it is common knowledge amongst them that she has this condition. Why had she “hidden her diabetes from the team for so long. Her worry had been that they would think less of her. But those fears had been unfounded; they just thought of it as part of who she was, like the colour of her hair. And instead of thinking of it as a weakness, they just made sure to pack extra snacks.”
The book is an exciting read at a fast pace in the main. The story contains a lot of deaths (including an emotional one for one of the good guys), a little bad language, but no love-making scenes like in the first book making it more suitable for my 13-year-old daughter to read too. Overall I enjoyed it.
In this book Thea, “a crisis response consultant, the industry term for a kidnap negotiator”, is transporting two children from an African orphanage for war-affected kids she funds to the UK where they are being adopted. But things go wrong when the plane she is on is skyjacked. “Instead of meeting Papa at Heathrow and introducing Ayan and Jabari to their adoptive family, she was trapped inside a hijacked plane in the Libyan Desert, surrounded by armed men. One man was dead, one was unconscious, and eleven hostages were now relying on her to make the right decisions to get them out of this situation alive.”
The book follows three strands that come together: the Thea strand from two angles (Thea’s and the kidnapper’s), and an Austrian strand where a bioweapon is about to be deployed. “A bioweapon can be targeted at a specific individual. What might be a mild cold or flu to the general population could be a deadly virus for one person.” This bioweapon is targeted to kill the Arab population but father, who is anti-Muslim, and son, whose girlfriend is of Arab descent, have a difference of opinion on it leading to that plotline getting involved in the main plot.
Also good about the book is that it shows Thea overcoming her type 1 diabetes condition as she goes about her job which can act as an inspiring story for others. In the first book she kept her condition secret from her team but now it is common knowledge amongst them that she has this condition. Why had she “hidden her diabetes from the team for so long. Her worry had been that they would think less of her. But those fears had been unfounded; they just thought of it as part of who she was, like the colour of her hair. And instead of thinking of it as a weakness, they just made sure to pack extra snacks.”
The book is an exciting read at a fast pace in the main. The story contains a lot of deaths (including an emotional one for one of the good guys), a little bad language, but no love-making scenes like in the first book making it more suitable for my 13-year-old daughter to read too. Overall I enjoyed it.
August 13, 2018
Boy soldiers. A secret German Society. Nuclear fuel. The Mafia. What a mix!
Thea Paris is returning to the UK with brothers, Jabari (12) and Ayan Kuria (9), both of whom had been forced to work as soldiers for Boko Haram. They have been rescued from an orphanage and waiting for them to arrive are their new parents, the Wavertons, people willing to adopt these two traumatised boys. After leaving Nairobi, the pilot managed to lock the co-pilot out of the cockpit, and before anyone could regain control, they find themselves landing in the middle of nowhere in Sudan.
Thea Paris works for Quantum International Security as a Freedom Broker, and on landing, immediately tries to negotiate their release. Prospero Salvatore, someone she’s met before, is not open to any suggestions for releasing the hostages until he gets the goods he’s waiting for. Goods that will accompany a truckload of refugees fleeing Syria.
In Austria, Johan Dietrich (17) discovers with horror that his father is the head of an organisation called Freiheitswächter (Freedom Guardians). Their purpose is to eradicate the world of Arabs using a genetical bioweapon. Johan decides to flee with his girlfriend, Fatima Abboud and from listening to the news, is convinced that the only person who can help him stop his father’s fanatical operation is Thea Paris, but that’s going to prove difficult while she’s still negotiating the release of the hostages.
I’m afraid that I found the whole hostage saga unconvincing, especially the parts where these two very young boys, who witnessed their parents being savagely murdered and then being forced into soldiering by Boko Haram, seem to find the whole situation easy to cope with. Maybe I’m getting too cynical, but I just can’t see kids being that resilient.
My other gripe was the lack of depth in the characters. They were either far too perfect or far too evil. Unfortunately, I found the whole experience of reading this book quite time-consuming, especially as it has been hyped as being one of the books to be published in 2019
Imbali
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
Thea Paris is returning to the UK with brothers, Jabari (12) and Ayan Kuria (9), both of whom had been forced to work as soldiers for Boko Haram. They have been rescued from an orphanage and waiting for them to arrive are their new parents, the Wavertons, people willing to adopt these two traumatised boys. After leaving Nairobi, the pilot managed to lock the co-pilot out of the cockpit, and before anyone could regain control, they find themselves landing in the middle of nowhere in Sudan.
Thea Paris works for Quantum International Security as a Freedom Broker, and on landing, immediately tries to negotiate their release. Prospero Salvatore, someone she’s met before, is not open to any suggestions for releasing the hostages until he gets the goods he’s waiting for. Goods that will accompany a truckload of refugees fleeing Syria.
In Austria, Johan Dietrich (17) discovers with horror that his father is the head of an organisation called Freiheitswächter (Freedom Guardians). Their purpose is to eradicate the world of Arabs using a genetical bioweapon. Johan decides to flee with his girlfriend, Fatima Abboud and from listening to the news, is convinced that the only person who can help him stop his father’s fanatical operation is Thea Paris, but that’s going to prove difficult while she’s still negotiating the release of the hostages.
I’m afraid that I found the whole hostage saga unconvincing, especially the parts where these two very young boys, who witnessed their parents being savagely murdered and then being forced into soldiering by Boko Haram, seem to find the whole situation easy to cope with. Maybe I’m getting too cynical, but I just can’t see kids being that resilient.
My other gripe was the lack of depth in the characters. They were either far too perfect or far too evil. Unfortunately, I found the whole experience of reading this book quite time-consuming, especially as it has been hyped as being one of the books to be published in 2019
Imbali
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
June 1, 2018
Now here is a story where the female heroin is not a femme fatale and uses her looks to get by. She is a woman who is smart, tactical, caring, strong, and a fearsome adversary to her enemies. I loved how she was every bit an equal to her male counterparts in the story! She did not have to rely on sex appeal and beauty, which is how these types of characters are normally written.
The more I read this story, the more engrossed I became. K.J. Howe ends up writing 3 different stories that intertwine in a chilling ending.
But she did more than a kidnap and ransom type of book. She brought in fallacies for her characters, which added to the story. I don’t know if Howe meant to write a story about how not being perfect does not matter to how incredible you can be, but it kind of reads like that at times. The heroes are not perfect and have some serious physical issues, but that makes the story deeper. The antagonists of the story also have some serious issues, which play beautifully into the story. Many times, it actually moves the story along.
This story touches on several themes: child trafficking, racism, kidnap and ransom plots, child soldiers, human trafficking, murder, mental illness, family loyalty, the mafia, hijacking, desperation, heroism, bio terrorism, I could go on and on. There is a lot packed into this book, but it works.
The only issue I have is that Howe gets some language wrong when speaking about military tactics, radio lingo, etc. But honestly, that’s probably because I know about those, so that will only bother those of us with a background in this stuff.
Howe also references a deeper story in her protagonist’s life. So much so that I want to read Thea Paris’ first story to understand what happened with her brother and how her and her father’s relationship severed. And I want to continue to read about her exploits! I’m a Thea Paris fan!
Thank you to BookishFirst and the publisher for giving me an advanced copy to read. All opinions are my own.
The more I read this story, the more engrossed I became. K.J. Howe ends up writing 3 different stories that intertwine in a chilling ending.
But she did more than a kidnap and ransom type of book. She brought in fallacies for her characters, which added to the story. I don’t know if Howe meant to write a story about how not being perfect does not matter to how incredible you can be, but it kind of reads like that at times. The heroes are not perfect and have some serious physical issues, but that makes the story deeper. The antagonists of the story also have some serious issues, which play beautifully into the story. Many times, it actually moves the story along.
This story touches on several themes: child trafficking, racism, kidnap and ransom plots, child soldiers, human trafficking, murder, mental illness, family loyalty, the mafia, hijacking, desperation, heroism, bio terrorism, I could go on and on. There is a lot packed into this book, but it works.
The only issue I have is that Howe gets some language wrong when speaking about military tactics, radio lingo, etc. But honestly, that’s probably because I know about those, so that will only bother those of us with a background in this stuff.
Howe also references a deeper story in her protagonist’s life. So much so that I want to read Thea Paris’ first story to understand what happened with her brother and how her and her father’s relationship severed. And I want to continue to read about her exploits! I’m a Thea Paris fan!
Thank you to BookishFirst and the publisher for giving me an advanced copy to read. All opinions are my own.
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