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Long shot
Detective Joe Stone and his team investigate a major terrorist attack on one of London’s most iconic buildings. They soon draw up a list of suspects who are highly respected members of the community and government. When most of his team is attacked, it soon develops into a war of nerves and a race against time before a deadly weapon is unleashed with horrific consequences.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 27, 2017
Long Shot is the second book in the Detective Joe Stone series. Having not read the first book I would highly recommend reading Loose Cannon, the first book in the series first. This is due to feeling like I was kind of missing out on what had happened in the first book, especially the story line surrounding Gemma as it follows on into the second novel. The author does his best to try and give snippets but there just wasn’t quite enough back ground for my personal liking.
The chapters are relatively short in the book which makes it feel a much faster read. The story line it self is quick moving with lots going off so certainly gets the adrenaline coursing through you.
I think the story line to do with the terrorist attack is extremely current in today’s world. I wish it wasn’t but sadly it is. The author very much brings to life the terror and fear surrounding these incidents and the need for the police to deal with it and try and wipe it out.
Stella had to be my favourite character. I have to say I love a strong minded female. She is feisty and not afraid to take risks. She was definitely one of a few stand out characters in the novel that appealed to me.
Whilst an enjoyable read, I do wish I had read the previous novel before reading this one. Saying that though I will go back and read the first one as it certainly had me intrigued.
Long Shot will certainly appeal to fans of fast paced, action packed thrillers. The short chapters will send you full throttle through the book and hurtling to the end. Definitely a series and an author to keep your eye out for.
My thanks to the author for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and biased in anyway.
The chapters are relatively short in the book which makes it feel a much faster read. The story line it self is quick moving with lots going off so certainly gets the adrenaline coursing through you.
I think the story line to do with the terrorist attack is extremely current in today’s world. I wish it wasn’t but sadly it is. The author very much brings to life the terror and fear surrounding these incidents and the need for the police to deal with it and try and wipe it out.
Stella had to be my favourite character. I have to say I love a strong minded female. She is feisty and not afraid to take risks. She was definitely one of a few stand out characters in the novel that appealed to me.
Whilst an enjoyable read, I do wish I had read the previous novel before reading this one. Saying that though I will go back and read the first one as it certainly had me intrigued.
Long Shot will certainly appeal to fans of fast paced, action packed thrillers. The short chapters will send you full throttle through the book and hurtling to the end. Definitely a series and an author to keep your eye out for.
My thanks to the author for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and biased in anyway.
December 12, 2017
*** Note: I received ARC of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. I am glad I got a chance to read this book. ***
As title says it was a long shot finding a person responsible for attack on St. Paul’s Cathedral and targeting the member of SIU team. Long Shot was gripping suspenseful whodunnit mystery in which protagonist is detective.
It’s second book of ‘A Detective Joe Stone series’. It started right after the investigation in the first book of series, Loose Cannon ended.
In this book SIU team is dealing with the investigation that Chief of SIU was warned and was attending meeting regarding terrorist threat on London. Main Character Joe Stone gets call from his lost girlfriend and learns her whereabouts, he gets to experience of being in command, the pressure of solving the case as full in charge, and catch the person responsible or else it could endanger the whole world.
The lesser you know about the book the better it will be. This is a book you can go blind and won’t regret for it.
Characters-
Joe was more in charge in this book because of triggered situation in the book and I loved his style of handling case. He was such determined and through with work in hand, his accurate gut feeling was admirable. His loyalty and dedication was more seen in this book than the first one.
Carl was such nice gentle person. I loved his witty remark and sense of humor. I could see why Joe loved to work with this guy. I wish I could see this guy more in fierce and in action in next book of the series.
All other member of the team were amazing in the book specially Stella and Graham. Along with Joe, I also wondered what’s up with Jasper and why he was so important to Stern. I had a doubt on this guy in first book but sadly it wasn’t solved or lifted in this book. Hopefully, next books can lift the veil over this character.
What I liked-
This book cannot be read standalone, even though some characters and events were briefed in this book as well. I liked little description from the previous books as it helped to recall the events that happened in first one. While the first book helped to know the thoughts of main character and it was like introduction to SIU team and their working style, in this book we get to know more about Commander Stern and his history. Also we get to know how Joe and Carl were recruited in SIU and more on the hint from first book about Stern’s respectable relation with Carl’s mother. I must say Stern was total surprise and little different than the way he appeared at work.
I loved this book more than first one because of Suspense. I couldn’t guess or doubt a single person who has given tough time to SIU and endangered life of innocent people until it was revealed. And when it was done, unbelievable!
Series of events happened from very start of the book, from terrorist attack on St. Paul’s Cathedral, to catching a most important person involved in attack, protecting that person from terrorists and then attacks on SIU team members directly or indirectly, deadly weapon was stolen by terrorists that could wipe out most of the population of the world. Phew! That was lot of things in one book ( there was more but I don’t want be spoiler) that kept my nerves high and were enough to build tension and rise adrenaline throughout the book.
The investigation procedures, specifically in first half, was brilliantly written, it felt like coming from a professional well experienced detective. Places of London mentioned in the book were well described specifically St. Paul Cathedral, first time I googled it and wow what a place it is, and I can count bridges of London on fingertip after reading this book. Those who are living there would definitely love to read this series.
Like first book this one also had more than 100 chapters but it didn’t bother me like first book. They were short, gripping, ended with cliffhanger, narrated mostly by protagonist and rest were from POV of victims. All events felt realistic and plausible.
There were still few mystery remained to solve for the next books of series. Like Gemma, Jasper, and Mafia. Ooh and the ending was even more interesting, there was another case waiting for Joe to solve.
There was nothing I could point out that didn’t like.
Overall, it was fabulous, interesting, thrilling and gripping mystery that I would recommend to all mystery lovers.
As title says it was a long shot finding a person responsible for attack on St. Paul’s Cathedral and targeting the member of SIU team. Long Shot was gripping suspenseful whodunnit mystery in which protagonist is detective.
It’s second book of ‘A Detective Joe Stone series’. It started right after the investigation in the first book of series, Loose Cannon ended.
In this book SIU team is dealing with the investigation that Chief of SIU was warned and was attending meeting regarding terrorist threat on London. Main Character Joe Stone gets call from his lost girlfriend and learns her whereabouts, he gets to experience of being in command, the pressure of solving the case as full in charge, and catch the person responsible or else it could endanger the whole world.
The lesser you know about the book the better it will be. This is a book you can go blind and won’t regret for it.
Characters-
Joe was more in charge in this book because of triggered situation in the book and I loved his style of handling case. He was such determined and through with work in hand, his accurate gut feeling was admirable. His loyalty and dedication was more seen in this book than the first one.
Carl was such nice gentle person. I loved his witty remark and sense of humor. I could see why Joe loved to work with this guy. I wish I could see this guy more in fierce and in action in next book of the series.
All other member of the team were amazing in the book specially Stella and Graham. Along with Joe, I also wondered what’s up with Jasper and why he was so important to Stern. I had a doubt on this guy in first book but sadly it wasn’t solved or lifted in this book. Hopefully, next books can lift the veil over this character.
What I liked-
This book cannot be read standalone, even though some characters and events were briefed in this book as well. I liked little description from the previous books as it helped to recall the events that happened in first one. While the first book helped to know the thoughts of main character and it was like introduction to SIU team and their working style, in this book we get to know more about Commander Stern and his history. Also we get to know how Joe and Carl were recruited in SIU and more on the hint from first book about Stern’s respectable relation with Carl’s mother. I must say Stern was total surprise and little different than the way he appeared at work.
I loved this book more than first one because of Suspense. I couldn’t guess or doubt a single person who has given tough time to SIU and endangered life of innocent people until it was revealed. And when it was done, unbelievable!
Series of events happened from very start of the book, from terrorist attack on St. Paul’s Cathedral, to catching a most important person involved in attack, protecting that person from terrorists and then attacks on SIU team members directly or indirectly, deadly weapon was stolen by terrorists that could wipe out most of the population of the world. Phew! That was lot of things in one book ( there was more but I don’t want be spoiler) that kept my nerves high and were enough to build tension and rise adrenaline throughout the book.
The investigation procedures, specifically in first half, was brilliantly written, it felt like coming from a professional well experienced detective. Places of London mentioned in the book were well described specifically St. Paul Cathedral, first time I googled it and wow what a place it is, and I can count bridges of London on fingertip after reading this book. Those who are living there would definitely love to read this series.
Like first book this one also had more than 100 chapters but it didn’t bother me like first book. They were short, gripping, ended with cliffhanger, narrated mostly by protagonist and rest were from POV of victims. All events felt realistic and plausible.
There were still few mystery remained to solve for the next books of series. Like Gemma, Jasper, and Mafia. Ooh and the ending was even more interesting, there was another case waiting for Joe to solve.
There was nothing I could point out that didn’t like.
Overall, it was fabulous, interesting, thrilling and gripping mystery that I would recommend to all mystery lovers.
July 26, 2017
After I finished the first book in the Joe Stone series I was desperate to read the second one! It’s taken longer than I thought though for this book to appear so I had to do a little refresh of the old memory with a reread of book 1 and what a cliffhanger that was!
Long Shot starts off with a bang-literally!!-with an explosion at one of the most iconic landmarks in London and from that moment on the narrative speeds along at an incredible pace to find out who is behind the attack and why. Joe (still in my head as Ryan Phillipe!) is reeling from the disappearance of his girlfriend Gemma and here we find out a little bit more when Joe gets an unexpected phone call. As Joe juggles his workload for his new investigation he also trys to finds out more about who took Gemma and why.
Jack Steele writes short and snappy dialogue to keep up the tension throughout the narrative, staying with his trademark mini cliffhangers at the end of some of the chapters. He’s created a memorable character in Joe Stone and the interesting minor characters that surround him so has consequently, once again, left me desperately awaiting book 3! I’m just hoping it’s not another year that I have to wait this time!
Long Shot starts off with a bang-literally!!-with an explosion at one of the most iconic landmarks in London and from that moment on the narrative speeds along at an incredible pace to find out who is behind the attack and why. Joe (still in my head as Ryan Phillipe!) is reeling from the disappearance of his girlfriend Gemma and here we find out a little bit more when Joe gets an unexpected phone call. As Joe juggles his workload for his new investigation he also trys to finds out more about who took Gemma and why.
Jack Steele writes short and snappy dialogue to keep up the tension throughout the narrative, staying with his trademark mini cliffhangers at the end of some of the chapters. He’s created a memorable character in Joe Stone and the interesting minor characters that surround him so has consequently, once again, left me desperately awaiting book 3! I’m just hoping it’s not another year that I have to wait this time!
July 29, 2017
Long Shot starts with an explosive opening chapter!! St Pauls Cathedral has been bombed, one of the symbols of the UK capital has lost its dome!!! Could you imagine such an iconic and historic building being attacked? God forbid this ever to happen – it’s been decimated once by World War II which is enough! What follows is a sinister investigation with suspects that would be viewed with great respectability!
I really liked the investigation team, the dynamic between them and particularly the partnership between Joe and Carl. I could imagine these two gents chasing round London interviewing suspects.
If your interest has been piqued by this fast paced novel, I would highly recommend that you read the author’s previous novel Loose Cannon. I didn’t and I felt I was missing something relating to the characters’ backgrounds.
The author’s technique of using short chapters meant I raced through this novel. With the explosive start, you hit the ground running and don’t stop until the end!! I found the writing really easy to read and kept my attention throughout!
Many thanks to Jack Steele for my copy of Long Shot.
I really liked the investigation team, the dynamic between them and particularly the partnership between Joe and Carl. I could imagine these two gents chasing round London interviewing suspects.
If your interest has been piqued by this fast paced novel, I would highly recommend that you read the author’s previous novel Loose Cannon. I didn’t and I felt I was missing something relating to the characters’ backgrounds.
The author’s technique of using short chapters meant I raced through this novel. With the explosive start, you hit the ground running and don’t stop until the end!! I found the writing really easy to read and kept my attention throughout!
Many thanks to Jack Steele for my copy of Long Shot.
July 30, 2017
This is the second book in the series but the first book that I have read which revolves round a specialised team headed by Detective Joe Stone and what an incredible riveting read it was!
It seems that the previous book ended on a bit of a dare I say story with unfinished business which Joe Stone is more than determined to solve. Unfortunately the bad guys had other plans for London with an unthinkable terrorist attack on a beloved symbol of British history. For one of the team it becomes all too real on a family outing. A welcome bonus for the team though.
What an absolutely belter of a book. I don't think that slow burn and gradual build up are in Jack Steele's vocabulary because he starts in 5th gear and doing 120mph. He definitely made my heart tickle my tonsils!
There is far more to this story than your average terrorist attack as it goes much further than just extremists. It takes it all to a new terrifying level of scary. Joe Stone makes one hell of a determined Detective. A superb story from a wicked author.
I wish to thank the author for this book which I read and reviewed honestly and without biased.
It seems that the previous book ended on a bit of a dare I say story with unfinished business which Joe Stone is more than determined to solve. Unfortunately the bad guys had other plans for London with an unthinkable terrorist attack on a beloved symbol of British history. For one of the team it becomes all too real on a family outing. A welcome bonus for the team though.
What an absolutely belter of a book. I don't think that slow burn and gradual build up are in Jack Steele's vocabulary because he starts in 5th gear and doing 120mph. He definitely made my heart tickle my tonsils!
There is far more to this story than your average terrorist attack as it goes much further than just extremists. It takes it all to a new terrifying level of scary. Joe Stone makes one hell of a determined Detective. A superb story from a wicked author.
I wish to thank the author for this book which I read and reviewed honestly and without biased.
June 25, 2017
On My Giddy Aunt!
Jack Steele has done it again. He's written a brilliant book that had my heart racing continually but........................... Once again I'm desperate for the next book in the series.
Full review will follow when I've calmed down.
Jack Steele has done it again. He's written a brilliant book that had my heart racing continually but........................... Once again I'm desperate for the next book in the series.
Full review will follow when I've calmed down.
August 4, 2017
Wow, what an explosive novel! From the very first chapter where the action and drama bursts to life, I was immediately drawn in and connected to what was unfolding and I knew straight away that this book was going to be a cracker of a read.
When a terrorist attack rocks the city of London, Detective Joe Stone and his colleagues find themselves thrust into the limelight as they race to uncover the group responsible and hold them accountable. With the world's media watching they cannot afford to mess up but this life is rarely straight forward and soon Joe and his friends are in the firing line both literally and figuratively. And his personal life isn't faring much better but at least his missing girlfriend has reappeared safely even if it looks like Joe has the Mafia to thank for that.
With a deadly weapon on the loose, many suspects, secrets, and his own personal drama to unravel, will Joe Stone be able to piece together the puzzle before the time is up and it is too late for everyone?
The subject matter of this book may be difficult considering the horrific attacks that are actually happening in our world, but I must applaud the author for how sensitively it is dealt with and woven throughout this novel. The characters are compelling and engaging and I really enjoyed getting to know Jack and his trusted team, and those that he is not so fond of.
LONG SHOT is the second book in this series and while it is possible to read it as a standalone, I would highly recommend that you read the first book (LOOSE CANNON) as it will give you an even better understanding of Joe and particularly his relationship with Gemma - and lets face it you can never have too many good books!
LONG SHOT by Jack Steele is action packed with an energetic pace that is aided by short, snappy chapters that keep you on your toes and your eyes glued to the page. It is an addictive crime fiction read that is a must for fans of this genre and I eagerly await more from Jack Steele.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the author
When a terrorist attack rocks the city of London, Detective Joe Stone and his colleagues find themselves thrust into the limelight as they race to uncover the group responsible and hold them accountable. With the world's media watching they cannot afford to mess up but this life is rarely straight forward and soon Joe and his friends are in the firing line both literally and figuratively. And his personal life isn't faring much better but at least his missing girlfriend has reappeared safely even if it looks like Joe has the Mafia to thank for that.
With a deadly weapon on the loose, many suspects, secrets, and his own personal drama to unravel, will Joe Stone be able to piece together the puzzle before the time is up and it is too late for everyone?
The subject matter of this book may be difficult considering the horrific attacks that are actually happening in our world, but I must applaud the author for how sensitively it is dealt with and woven throughout this novel. The characters are compelling and engaging and I really enjoyed getting to know Jack and his trusted team, and those that he is not so fond of.
LONG SHOT is the second book in this series and while it is possible to read it as a standalone, I would highly recommend that you read the first book (LOOSE CANNON) as it will give you an even better understanding of Joe and particularly his relationship with Gemma - and lets face it you can never have too many good books!
LONG SHOT by Jack Steele is action packed with an energetic pace that is aided by short, snappy chapters that keep you on your toes and your eyes glued to the page. It is an addictive crime fiction read that is a must for fans of this genre and I eagerly await more from Jack Steele.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the author
July 24, 2017
This time last year I read Jack's debut novel, Loose Cannon, and I was completely blown away by how good it was. After what seemed like a lifetime of waiting I got the email I'd been patiently waiting for, the sequel was ready and my review copy of Long Shot arrived in my inbox and I got stuck straight in.
Long Shot is the second book in the Detective Joe Stone series and picks up with Joe and his team two weeks after Loose Cannon. While they're in the process of tying up the loose ends of the previous case they suddenly have to drop everything to deal with a terrorist attack at St Paul's Cathedral. As if this wasn't enough for them to deal with, Joe's called in by his boss Stern, who informs him that following media criticism, the Government have brought forward a scheduled visit to the Strategic Investigation Unit . . . and the Prime Minister, Defence Secretary, the Mayor along with representatives of the Tower Hamlets community and the church will be arriving in an hour. Everyone has endless questions and Joe is relieved when it's all over, that is until the Prime Minster makes an announcement to the press waiting outside, telling them that the SIU have been granted additional funding and they will now be covering the whole of London.
Knowing that this announcement will put them all under more scrutiny, Joe is even more determined to catch the people involved with the latest attack on the city. After visiting St Paul's and planning their next move, his colleague Stella receives a phone call from her best friend, Jessica, informing her that she has one of the terrorists in her house.
I'll be totally honest and tell you that I was a little nervous when I received my ARC copy, having loved Loose Cannon as much as I did, was I setting myself up for a fall? Would Jack Steele be able to live up to my high expectations? My answer lovely reader is not only did he live up to them. . . . he exceeded them with a hard hitting thriller that will leave you breathless! Long Shot has everything I look for in a thriller, short, punchy chapters combined with a great cast of believable characters. Following Detective Joe Stone as the investigation ramped up I kept having to remind myself to breath on more than one occasion. Although you could easily read this as a stand-alone novel, I would recommend that you read Loose Cannon first so that you get to know Joe's background. As for me, I'm now going to wait patiently for the next book in the series, so I seriously hope that you've already made a start on it Mr Steele!
With kind thank to author Jack Steele for the review copy.
Long Shot is the second book in the Detective Joe Stone series and picks up with Joe and his team two weeks after Loose Cannon. While they're in the process of tying up the loose ends of the previous case they suddenly have to drop everything to deal with a terrorist attack at St Paul's Cathedral. As if this wasn't enough for them to deal with, Joe's called in by his boss Stern, who informs him that following media criticism, the Government have brought forward a scheduled visit to the Strategic Investigation Unit . . . and the Prime Minister, Defence Secretary, the Mayor along with representatives of the Tower Hamlets community and the church will be arriving in an hour. Everyone has endless questions and Joe is relieved when it's all over, that is until the Prime Minster makes an announcement to the press waiting outside, telling them that the SIU have been granted additional funding and they will now be covering the whole of London.
Knowing that this announcement will put them all under more scrutiny, Joe is even more determined to catch the people involved with the latest attack on the city. After visiting St Paul's and planning their next move, his colleague Stella receives a phone call from her best friend, Jessica, informing her that she has one of the terrorists in her house.
I'll be totally honest and tell you that I was a little nervous when I received my ARC copy, having loved Loose Cannon as much as I did, was I setting myself up for a fall? Would Jack Steele be able to live up to my high expectations? My answer lovely reader is not only did he live up to them. . . . he exceeded them with a hard hitting thriller that will leave you breathless! Long Shot has everything I look for in a thriller, short, punchy chapters combined with a great cast of believable characters. Following Detective Joe Stone as the investigation ramped up I kept having to remind myself to breath on more than one occasion. Although you could easily read this as a stand-alone novel, I would recommend that you read Loose Cannon first so that you get to know Joe's background. As for me, I'm now going to wait patiently for the next book in the series, so I seriously hope that you've already made a start on it Mr Steele!
With kind thank to author Jack Steele for the review copy.
November 9, 2017
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I thoroughly enjoyed this book - the plot was great and I loved the characters!! The layout of the book reminds me of those by James Patterson and I like the short punchy style as I think they often give an added edge to the book and move everything thorough at a brilliant pace.
It is a really good action thriller and I am so glad that I have been able to read a copy - I have given the book a solid four stars and I will definitely be looking to get the first book in the series to mop up the few holes for me that I have from not reading them in order - highly recommended by me and would recommend that you read them in order too!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - the plot was great and I loved the characters!! The layout of the book reminds me of those by James Patterson and I like the short punchy style as I think they often give an added edge to the book and move everything thorough at a brilliant pace.
It is a really good action thriller and I am so glad that I have been able to read a copy - I have given the book a solid four stars and I will definitely be looking to get the first book in the series to mop up the few holes for me that I have from not reading them in order - highly recommended by me and would recommend that you read them in order too!!
August 5, 2017
Joe Stone, a leading detective in Strategic Investigation Unit, special police task force in London, is juggling increasingly demanding career and unpredictable struggles of his personal life. Now that he knows his girlfriend is alive, it is difficult for him to concentrate on work, when all he wants is to have her close.
At the same time London becomes a victim to a terrorist attack, and The Prime Minister decides to charge SIU with the task of finding those responsible for the attacks. When Joe’s friends and colleagues are the ones who are targeted by the terrorists, this case becomes more than just a regular assignment. Constantly worried about the safety of his team, Joe races against time to uncover secrets from the past, and information regarding all the high profile suspects.
Soon Joe finds himself in charge of the SIU, which proves to be not at all what he expected.
The second book in Joe Stone’s series did not disappoint. I really enjoyed reading this one, and it leaves us with a brief intro to the next story.
June 12, 2018
Detective Joe Stone returns in this follow-up novel to Loose Canon. A famous London landmark has been attacked by terrorists and its up to Joe and his team to identify them and track them down. Short chapters help keep the tension high and the action moving along in this twisting and engaging thriller. The author's personal experience brings realism to the police procedures and offers a good insight into the relationship between law enforcement agencies and politicians. Great fast-paced thriller.
September 26, 2017
A truly intriguing and engaging story which is suspenseful, fast paced and surprising. I particularly enjoyed reading about the demand made by the terrorists, but also finding out more about their motives which were very original.
The tale was particularly poignant and real for me as I know many of the areas where the action takes place well and the author captures them well through description.
On several occasions I was almost certain that the story would go a certain way, only to be surprised by fresh aspects brought in! For me, this is key to a riveting read.
The tale was particularly poignant and real for me as I know many of the areas where the action takes place well and the author captures them well through description.
On several occasions I was almost certain that the story would go a certain way, only to be surprised by fresh aspects brought in! For me, this is key to a riveting read.
November 8, 2017
I was given this book in return for an honest review, and this is it:
This is the second book in the Joe Stone series, and although I thought the first one was good I enjoyed this one better.
The story begins with an attack on St Paul’s Cathedral and Joe Stone and his team from the Strategic Investigation Unit set out to find who was responsible and bring them to justice.
Joe Stone isn’t your ordinary fictional policeman, he is intriguing, mesmerising and infuriatingly human. When his superior officer is injured he is placed in charge of the unit, a role that scares and challenges him at the same time. The story is fast paced and gritty with no time to catch your breath, and doesn’t slow down for a second. It is also frighteningly believable.
The world of crime fiction desperately needs a new detective and in Joe Stone I think they have found it.
Jack Steele is a relatively new name in crime fiction, if there is any justice in the world it won’t be long before he will be in the best sellers list along with Peter James, Lee Child and Mark Billingham.
August 3, 2017
Now this is the first time I have read a Joe Stone novel but having completed it I know that as soon as I can I will be going back to read book one, Loose Cannon. This book had everything I like in a read: fast pacing, really likeable character and as twisting and exciting plot which immediately captures your attention and pulls you along with it. Although I think I’d know the various characters better if I had read book one, don’t let that put you off as this can easily be read as a standalone too.
In Long Shot the book opens with London being rocked, in some cases literally, by the bombing of a truly iconic landmark. with many dead and even more injured it is immediately assumed to be a terrorist attack. And yet no group calls to claim responsibility and there really are no clear motives for the attack. Joe Stone’s unit is put in charge of the investigation, their remit now extended to cover the whole or London and not just Tower Hamlets. They find a key witness to the bombing whose life is under threat and soon one of their own is placed in great jeopardy too. And with a number of key dignitaries also coming under attack it is a race against time to find out just who is responsible.
Joe Stone is a really intriguing character. There is some back story surrounding him, his girlfriend who disappeared some time before who has now mysteriously reappeared. The reasons for her disappearance are still unknown but Joe is more intrigued by the man who returned her – someone who he has had run ins with in the past. Joe is a clear leader in the team and a wholly likable character who I took to immediately. That’s just as well as the majority of the story is told from his point of view, the few exceptions being when we are with the so far mysterious person behind the bombings.
The pacing really adds to the drama in the story, the chapters short and fast, each ending in an almost mini cliff hanger type moment. This was a really unique device, not something I’d seen before, dropping that seed of an idea and making you want to know just what was going to happen next. If I’m honest I wasn’t quite sure what to make of it at first, but it definitely made me intrigued to read more and probably kept me reading way longer into the night than I should have done given I had an early start for work the following day. Whoops.
The story itself is full of twists and turns and a number of red herrings. It certainly kept me guessing and I probably changed my mind half a dozen times over who I thought had done it. I’m really intrigued to know more about Joe and his girlfriend, Gemma, especially the ties to mafia hit man Marcos Viletta. And I’ll definitely be reading more of the series to see how that all plays out. I’m also waiting with baited breath to see how serving the whole of London changes things for Joe and the rest of the Strategic Investigation Unit. I can’t help thinking their lives just got a whole lot more complicated.
In Long Shot the book opens with London being rocked, in some cases literally, by the bombing of a truly iconic landmark. with many dead and even more injured it is immediately assumed to be a terrorist attack. And yet no group calls to claim responsibility and there really are no clear motives for the attack. Joe Stone’s unit is put in charge of the investigation, their remit now extended to cover the whole or London and not just Tower Hamlets. They find a key witness to the bombing whose life is under threat and soon one of their own is placed in great jeopardy too. And with a number of key dignitaries also coming under attack it is a race against time to find out just who is responsible.
Joe Stone is a really intriguing character. There is some back story surrounding him, his girlfriend who disappeared some time before who has now mysteriously reappeared. The reasons for her disappearance are still unknown but Joe is more intrigued by the man who returned her – someone who he has had run ins with in the past. Joe is a clear leader in the team and a wholly likable character who I took to immediately. That’s just as well as the majority of the story is told from his point of view, the few exceptions being when we are with the so far mysterious person behind the bombings.
The pacing really adds to the drama in the story, the chapters short and fast, each ending in an almost mini cliff hanger type moment. This was a really unique device, not something I’d seen before, dropping that seed of an idea and making you want to know just what was going to happen next. If I’m honest I wasn’t quite sure what to make of it at first, but it definitely made me intrigued to read more and probably kept me reading way longer into the night than I should have done given I had an early start for work the following day. Whoops.
The story itself is full of twists and turns and a number of red herrings. It certainly kept me guessing and I probably changed my mind half a dozen times over who I thought had done it. I’m really intrigued to know more about Joe and his girlfriend, Gemma, especially the ties to mafia hit man Marcos Viletta. And I’ll definitely be reading more of the series to see how that all plays out. I’m also waiting with baited breath to see how serving the whole of London changes things for Joe and the rest of the Strategic Investigation Unit. I can’t help thinking their lives just got a whole lot more complicated.
July 30, 2017
Having read Loose Cannon Jack Steele's debut novel and loving it. I couldn't wait to catch up with Detective Joe Stone. And I literally did just that when I found out I was a character.....OMG...how awesome is that you could say I was bouncing off the walls it's not everyday I get to read a book and see my name it. I am over the moon to say the least. Anyway enough of me… What did I think of the book is what you are all thinking?!
With a sensitive subject matter which is fitting in today's recent events. Jack tells us a story about a terrorist attack which Detective Joe Stone and his team investigate.
Long shot starts off with a bang and I was gripped from start to finish the story. The start picks up two weeks after Loose Cannon which was left on a cliffhanger, so I recommend you read the first one in the series first. Jack has pulled out all the punches and created a hard hitting action packed page turner they will have you hooked.
I loved the short chapters each one leaving you wanting more. And in this story we have plenty of character development where we get to know the characters more. With Characters that are likable and easy to relate to.
This series is a must read which I highly recommend giving it 5 stars .
With a sensitive subject matter which is fitting in today's recent events. Jack tells us a story about a terrorist attack which Detective Joe Stone and his team investigate.
Long shot starts off with a bang and I was gripped from start to finish the story. The start picks up two weeks after Loose Cannon which was left on a cliffhanger, so I recommend you read the first one in the series first. Jack has pulled out all the punches and created a hard hitting action packed page turner they will have you hooked.
I loved the short chapters each one leaving you wanting more. And in this story we have plenty of character development where we get to know the characters more. With Characters that are likable and easy to relate to.
This series is a must read which I highly recommend giving it 5 stars .
August 2, 2017
Joe Stone is part of the Strategic investigation unit committed to reducing crime in the Tower Hamlets area of London. A bomb has gone off at St Paul’s cathedral causing untold damage and killing and injuring many. Changes are afoot at SIU and the wider investigation of terrorism becomes part of their remit. Joe’s girlfriend Gemma has been missing for over a year whilst working as part of the border patrol. and he receives some news which surprises him. A book with a good story and with the aside of something more personal to the main character. A fast moving thriller that has a cliffhanger almost at the end of every short, snappy chapter that keeps the flow apace. This is the second book in the series and would happily stand alone but having read the first you are more in the picture to the background and why miss out on a really good read? I could see this as a TV drama as there is so much to keep the viewer/reader enthralled. A little humour, background of the characters to give them depth and an excellent plot line. A very entertaining, highly recommended read. I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
August 4, 2017
I was lucky enough to have been given a copy of Jack’s previous book Loose Cannon to read before this one as Long Shot does follow directly on from that one, so I would highly recommend reading that first, although this does read ok as a stand alone book.
The book starts with a bang, literally, as there is a terrorist attack on St Paul’s Cathedral and the action moves very quickly from there. The story follows Joe and his team as they have to uncover the truth about the terrorist attack and who committed it, as no group takes credit for it.
The story flows really well and, just like the last book, there are lots of twists and turns through the book to keep you guessing right until the end and the final reveal. Also like the last book there is a cliff hanger ending which keeps you wanting more, and I can’t wait for the next book to be published.
The book starts with a bang, literally, as there is a terrorist attack on St Paul’s Cathedral and the action moves very quickly from there. The story follows Joe and his team as they have to uncover the truth about the terrorist attack and who committed it, as no group takes credit for it.
The story flows really well and, just like the last book, there are lots of twists and turns through the book to keep you guessing right until the end and the final reveal. Also like the last book there is a cliff hanger ending which keeps you wanting more, and I can’t wait for the next book to be published.
November 22, 2020
The second book in this series! It's always a nervous feeling, reading the second book in a series after enjoying the first one. You never know if it'll be a massive let-down or a great success. In this case, the latter prevailed. The book had its own story and could be read on its own, while still tying in to the first book and following a clear red thread. When it comes to the writing style, it was almost a little reminiscent of Dan Brown in its attention to detail and sense of mystery. While the story was not finished up as neatly as the one in book #1 was, Long Shot is absolutely a worthy sequel.
July 31, 2017
Having read and enjoyed the first of Jack Steele's Joe Stone novels, I was looking forward to reading Long Shot. The story itself is very interesting, dealing as it does with terrorism, but I am only able to award three stars because of the disappointing standard of grammar, spelling and punctuation. Surely spellings such as prey (pray), emphasis (emphasise) and distain (disdain), all of which appear more than once, should have been spotted in the editing stage.
November 5, 2017
Another great book from Jack Steele.
I really enjoyed this book and think it’s better than the first in the series.
I was really drawn into the story and was on the edge of my seat at the end.
The ending leaves it wide open for the next book and I can’t wait until it’s released.
I think the character of Joe Stone is becoming more and more intriguing, and look forward to finding out what happens next.
Thanks to Jack Steele for sending me a copy of the book - great read!
I really enjoyed this book and think it’s better than the first in the series.
I was really drawn into the story and was on the edge of my seat at the end.
The ending leaves it wide open for the next book and I can’t wait until it’s released.
I think the character of Joe Stone is becoming more and more intriguing, and look forward to finding out what happens next.
Thanks to Jack Steele for sending me a copy of the book - great read!
July 24, 2017
** Full review to come 31st as part of the blog tour **
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December 8, 2019Please see blog for review: https://thepturnersbookblog.wordpress...
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