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Gibson Vaughn #4
Debris Line
The stakes are higher than ever as the Wall Street Journal bestselling series continues.
Lying low on the sun-kissed coast of Portugal is a far cry from twenty-four-hour lockdown in a CIA black-site prison. But even in paradise, Gibson Vaughn is a long way from being home free. With the feds hot on his heels, he and his crew of fellow fugitives know they can’t hide in a sunny beach town forever. And before they go on the run again, their generous host—a wealthy drug smuggler—expects to be paid for his hospitality. And paid double.
His price? A nearly impossible operation that Gibson and his gang must pull off to retrieve a king’s ransom in hijacked narcotics. Even if they make it out alive, they’ll have to face the wrath of a ruthless Mexican cartel that plays dirty…and is used to winning. But when Gibson discovers there’s far more than drugs at stake, the heist becomes a daring mission of rescue and mercy—and righteous vengeance.
Lying low on the sun-kissed coast of Portugal is a far cry from twenty-four-hour lockdown in a CIA black-site prison. But even in paradise, Gibson Vaughn is a long way from being home free. With the feds hot on his heels, he and his crew of fellow fugitives know they can’t hide in a sunny beach town forever. And before they go on the run again, their generous host—a wealthy drug smuggler—expects to be paid for his hospitality. And paid double.
His price? A nearly impossible operation that Gibson and his gang must pull off to retrieve a king’s ransom in hijacked narcotics. Even if they make it out alive, they’ll have to face the wrath of a ruthless Mexican cartel that plays dirty…and is used to winning. But when Gibson discovers there’s far more than drugs at stake, the heist becomes a daring mission of rescue and mercy—and righteous vengeance.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2018
1559 people are currently reading
1299 people want to read
About the author
Matthew FitzSimmons
14 books1,390 followersMatthew FitzSimmons is the author of the bestselling Gibson Vaughn and Constance Series. His latest, The Slate, will be released in October, 2024. Born in Illinois and raised in London, England, he makes his home in Washington DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
July 30, 2018
I'm between 4 and 4.5 stars.
I'm not sure exactly how I found Matthew FitzSimmons' series of thrillers featuring former hacker Gibson Vaughn and his cohorts, but this has been a pretty terrific set of books so far. The Short Drop utterly blew me away, and while Poisonfeather didn't quite have the same magic, Cold Harbor was as "vintage FitzSimmons" as it is possible for an author's third book to be.
His newest installment of the series, Debris Line , finds the characters in a totally different setting, but it's not long before they find themselves in another heap of trouble, although this time it's not entirely of Vaughn's (or any of the others') own making.
After their last "adventure" left them being hunted by federal agents—and worse—Vaughn, along with Jenn, George, and Hendricks, are laying low on the beautiful beaches of a coastal town in Portugal. It's hard to quibble with gorgeous weather and scenery every day (especially when you were once held captive in a prison for quite some time), and it's nice to have peace without having to watch your back every second, but Vaughn knows that all good things must come to an end sooner than later, or they'll all grow soft(er).
His fervent pleas to his compatriots that they begin planning their exit fall on deaf ears. But when their host, a notorious drug kingpin who owes George an old debt, asks for their help in determining whether he has a coup on his hands in his massive cartel, they realize that paying the piper is the only way they'll be able to escape—if that. The group finds themselves in the middle of a massive power struggle, one with potentially disastrous consequences that could blow back onto Vaughn, Jenn, George, and Hendricks.
When Vaughn starts digging into what appears to be a textbook hijacking of a shipment, he discovers the cartel has interesting enemies—and there's far more at stake than drugs and money. But the stakes are higher than they've ever been, and the crew is as far from their comfort zone as possible—and not everyone is even sure that they should get involved. Somehow they wind up on a whiplash-inducing ride of divided loyalties, immense risk, and in one case, love might even be involved. None of these are good keys to survival, and all of them together could spell danger.
Every time I read one of FitzSimmons' books I'm reminded what a terrific group of characters he has created in this series. While Vaughn is certainly the tortured and flawed hero/anti-hero, in this book it was refreshing not to see him so hangdog—at least until he realizes what a mess it is they're in. I enjoyed the way FitzSimmons dug deeper into the dynamics between the group members, tugging at some resentments which have been simmering just below the surface for some time.
This book definitely had a slow start, as the change in setting and the new cast of characters took some time to get acclimated to. Additionally, this is a book that utilized more of Vaughn's computer skills than some of the previous books, so it takes a while for the real action to get going. But when it does, well, FitzSimmons takes his foot off the brakes and just lets the story barrel downhill—fast. His knack for action scenes as well as dialogue are on sharp display once again in this book.
While you could read Debris Line even if you've never read any of the other books in this series, I'd definitely encourage you to pick the earlier books first. There are mentions of incidents from the previous books, although not a lot of details, so having that prior knowledge would definitely be helpful. Beyond that, however, if you don't read the previous books, you'll be missing out on a pretty terrific series, so why do that to yourself?
Count me in for standing on line and waiting for FitzSimmons' next book, whether it's another installment in the series or not! (Given that this book doesn't get released officially until November, I won't actually stand, but you know what I mean.) Read these books!
NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com, or check out my list of the best books I read in 2017 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2017.html.
I'm not sure exactly how I found Matthew FitzSimmons' series of thrillers featuring former hacker Gibson Vaughn and his cohorts, but this has been a pretty terrific set of books so far. The Short Drop utterly blew me away, and while Poisonfeather didn't quite have the same magic, Cold Harbor was as "vintage FitzSimmons" as it is possible for an author's third book to be.
His newest installment of the series, Debris Line , finds the characters in a totally different setting, but it's not long before they find themselves in another heap of trouble, although this time it's not entirely of Vaughn's (or any of the others') own making.
After their last "adventure" left them being hunted by federal agents—and worse—Vaughn, along with Jenn, George, and Hendricks, are laying low on the beautiful beaches of a coastal town in Portugal. It's hard to quibble with gorgeous weather and scenery every day (especially when you were once held captive in a prison for quite some time), and it's nice to have peace without having to watch your back every second, but Vaughn knows that all good things must come to an end sooner than later, or they'll all grow soft(er).
His fervent pleas to his compatriots that they begin planning their exit fall on deaf ears. But when their host, a notorious drug kingpin who owes George an old debt, asks for their help in determining whether he has a coup on his hands in his massive cartel, they realize that paying the piper is the only way they'll be able to escape—if that. The group finds themselves in the middle of a massive power struggle, one with potentially disastrous consequences that could blow back onto Vaughn, Jenn, George, and Hendricks.
When Vaughn starts digging into what appears to be a textbook hijacking of a shipment, he discovers the cartel has interesting enemies—and there's far more at stake than drugs and money. But the stakes are higher than they've ever been, and the crew is as far from their comfort zone as possible—and not everyone is even sure that they should get involved. Somehow they wind up on a whiplash-inducing ride of divided loyalties, immense risk, and in one case, love might even be involved. None of these are good keys to survival, and all of them together could spell danger.
Every time I read one of FitzSimmons' books I'm reminded what a terrific group of characters he has created in this series. While Vaughn is certainly the tortured and flawed hero/anti-hero, in this book it was refreshing not to see him so hangdog—at least until he realizes what a mess it is they're in. I enjoyed the way FitzSimmons dug deeper into the dynamics between the group members, tugging at some resentments which have been simmering just below the surface for some time.
This book definitely had a slow start, as the change in setting and the new cast of characters took some time to get acclimated to. Additionally, this is a book that utilized more of Vaughn's computer skills than some of the previous books, so it takes a while for the real action to get going. But when it does, well, FitzSimmons takes his foot off the brakes and just lets the story barrel downhill—fast. His knack for action scenes as well as dialogue are on sharp display once again in this book.
While you could read Debris Line even if you've never read any of the other books in this series, I'd definitely encourage you to pick the earlier books first. There are mentions of incidents from the previous books, although not a lot of details, so having that prior knowledge would definitely be helpful. Beyond that, however, if you don't read the previous books, you'll be missing out on a pretty terrific series, so why do that to yourself?
Count me in for standing on line and waiting for FitzSimmons' next book, whether it's another installment in the series or not! (Given that this book doesn't get released officially until November, I won't actually stand, but you know what I mean.) Read these books!
NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com, or check out my list of the best books I read in 2017 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2017.html.
November 19, 2018
This is the 4th offering by Matthew FitzSimmons with Gibson Vaughn. This heist thriller reads well and I am convinced fans of this genre will not be disappointed. Good plot, fast-paced action and the protagonist who is likeable guarantee enjoyable moments while reading Debris Line.
*Many thanks to the Author, Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for providing me with ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
*Many thanks to the Author, Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for providing me with ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
February 16, 2019
I'm not a big reader of thrillers, mysteries yes, thrillers no, but this is one series of a few for which I make an exception. I just really enjoy these characters. They are so loyal to eat h other, and loyal too in their beliefs. So much so that even when they are in a relatively safe position, they cannot turn away from a serious wrong. Here they are hiding out in Portugal, when they become embroiled in just such a situation. Once again, at a time when they should be thinking of saving their own lives, the situation becoming so volatile, they instead place themselves smack in the middle of what turns into both a betrayal and s turf war. A little more violent than I'm used to, they do tend to leave dead bodies I their wake, but the characters as always pulled me through.
Maybe a little more violent Monkey wrench crew, for those readers who read that series.
ARC from Netgalley.
Maybe a little more violent Monkey wrench crew, for those readers who read that series.
ARC from Netgalley.
November 22, 2018
This is the fourth Gibson Vaughn book. Gibson, Jenn, George, and Hendricks have been hiding out in Portugal for the last six months while George recuperates. The team is under the protection of Baltasar Alves, a criminal kingpin. The beginning of the book was slow as it introduced Portuguese characters and updated the status of the four main characters. The plot kicked into gear at about 20% and remained in gear until the end.
I enjoyed the story and the characters. I especially like the geek aspect of the book. I don’t have any expertise in that area, but I listen when my son talks about work and all things computer- and network-related. I admit I thought about asking him about the authenticity of that part of this book.
I’m looking forward to seeing what Matthew Fitzsimmons has up his sleeve for these characters in the future.
(Edit: My son walked in just after I posted this review, so we had a conversation about the book. I asked him about some things and he confirmed and explained certain terms to me. I also told him about a fiber bridge, which sent him to the Internet for research. 😂)
I enjoyed the story and the characters. I especially like the geek aspect of the book. I don’t have any expertise in that area, but I listen when my son talks about work and all things computer- and network-related. I admit I thought about asking him about the authenticity of that part of this book.
I’m looking forward to seeing what Matthew Fitzsimmons has up his sleeve for these characters in the future.
(Edit: My son walked in just after I posted this review, so we had a conversation about the book. I asked him about some things and he confirmed and explained certain terms to me. I also told him about a fiber bridge, which sent him to the Internet for research. 😂)
December 6, 2018
Matthew FitzSimmons does not disappoint! Gibson Vaughn returns, and his exploits take us to Portugal. I really liked this book because it's a bit of a departure from the first three in the series. This novel is also action-packed, but it also moves at a good pace, with some genuine emotion shown from characters that the reader may not have expected. Fantastic read, and I look forward to future Gibson Vaughn novels. 5 stars!
Can be read as a stand alone book
Can be read as a stand alone book
April 5, 2019
Following the harrowing events of Cold Harbor, Gibson, Jenn, George, and Hendricks have been hiding out on the southern coast of Portugal under the protection of Baltasar Alves, a criminal kingpin. Alves has consolidated his rivals following substantial decriminalization of narcotics, and is moving drugs into other European countries for the Mexican cartels when a shipment is constructively hijacked (i.e., rigged to explode in his warehouse), clearly an inside job. Alves demands that George and his team help him save the shipment and find the mole. Excellent location, good characters (bad and good, I especially liked the local soccer star), and lots of technology, mystery and action. The best of his four book series so far.
November 29, 2018
I just love this series.
The fourth installation of the Gibson Vaughn saga didn’t disappoint. After four books, the writing and characters are as strong as ever. The first book was phenomenal, second good but a bit of a slump, and the third fantastic so I was hopefully the fourth would still be good and fresh... and it was!
Kudos to FitzSimmons; I look forward to his other books and (hopefully) more in this series.
The fourth installation of the Gibson Vaughn saga didn’t disappoint. After four books, the writing and characters are as strong as ever. The first book was phenomenal, second good but a bit of a slump, and the third fantastic so I was hopefully the fourth would still be good and fresh... and it was!
Kudos to FitzSimmons; I look forward to his other books and (hopefully) more in this series.
October 22, 2018
This is the 4th book in the Gibson Vaughn hacker series. It wasn't one of my favorites (those would be the first and the third), but still an entertaining story with some desired closure on a couple issues from past books. What I think sets this series apart from other books in this genre is the character development and dry, almost dark humor. That wasn't as prevalent in this one, which is why it lost points with me. The story was easy to follow though, with a manageable amount of characters. I also think you could read this one even if you haven't read any of the others, which is a plus. Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for a chance to read this ARC.
April 24, 2019
I really enjoy this author and the previous novels in the series. I just could not get into this one as hard as I tried it was just mot there for me. I just felt it dragged on to much for most of the story and I could not wait for it to be over with. I just felt the story not there or not enough of a story . I was going to give this story 3 stars but that felt to high of a grade. I will read the next one by him but this one ehhhhh
December 19, 2018
So, the fourth instalment of the Gibson Vaughan series is another tightly plotted suspenseful thriller, just not the story I’ve been waiting for (the one where we finally get to the bottom of the political conspiracy around Cold Harbour.) It was good to get the team back together and in a very different situation but while this is a self contained story I strongly recommend reading the previous books in order to understand the characters and their background.
After fleeing the FBI following the events in Cold Harbour, Gibson, Jenn Charles, Dan Hendricks and a still damaged George Abe have been living in sunny Portugal, hiding in plain sight amongst the tourists of the Algarve. Gibson has recovered his sanity and strength, and is getting restless, fearing they have stayed too long, but when their protector, a benevolently ruthless gangster’s drug shipment is hijacked by a mysterious outsider, he demands that they recover his drugs as payment from them before they may leave. Gibson’s hacking skills come into play once more, but when he discovers what’s really going on he is willing to risk all their lives to make it right.
I have enjoyed all of these books but they are long and quite complicated with lots of minor characters to keep track of so you need to pay attention. There are plenty of twists and lots of action, but we also get to know Gibson’s team better, especially super tough Jenn’s other side. The Portuguese setting was a new one for me, I don’t think I’ve read a book set there before, and a story about gangsters working under their comprehensive drug decriminalisation system was particularly interesting to read about (New Zealand is contemplating a similar move). I look forward to continuing the series as it doesn’t sound as if Gibson’s adventures are over yet.
My thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review, and my apologies for the delay while I caught up with the previous book.
Debris Line is available now.
After fleeing the FBI following the events in Cold Harbour, Gibson, Jenn Charles, Dan Hendricks and a still damaged George Abe have been living in sunny Portugal, hiding in plain sight amongst the tourists of the Algarve. Gibson has recovered his sanity and strength, and is getting restless, fearing they have stayed too long, but when their protector, a benevolently ruthless gangster’s drug shipment is hijacked by a mysterious outsider, he demands that they recover his drugs as payment from them before they may leave. Gibson’s hacking skills come into play once more, but when he discovers what’s really going on he is willing to risk all their lives to make it right.
I have enjoyed all of these books but they are long and quite complicated with lots of minor characters to keep track of so you need to pay attention. There are plenty of twists and lots of action, but we also get to know Gibson’s team better, especially super tough Jenn’s other side. The Portuguese setting was a new one for me, I don’t think I’ve read a book set there before, and a story about gangsters working under their comprehensive drug decriminalisation system was particularly interesting to read about (New Zealand is contemplating a similar move). I look forward to continuing the series as it doesn’t sound as if Gibson’s adventures are over yet.
My thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review, and my apologies for the delay while I caught up with the previous book.
Debris Line is available now.
August 12, 2018
Debris Line is the latest in Matthew Fitzsimmons' adventures of Gibson Vaughn. I loved The Short Drop and was entertained by Poison Feather, Cold Harbor, and Debris Line, but the first book was definitely the best in this thriller series.
Debris Line finds Gibson Vaughn, Jenn, Hendricks, and George in a small coastal village in Portugal. Their host? A drug smuggler who owes George a favor and is willing to harbor the fugitives for a time.
Then a drug shipment is hijacked. Not taken, but threatened with destruction, and Vaughn and his team must repay the privilege of having enjoyed the kingpin's sanctuary. Or else.
Fast-paced with twists and betrayals and a new protagonist/antagonist? hacker group responsible for the heist. The spokesperson has a great deal of knowledge about Vaughn. Whoever these people are, we can expect to hear more about them in the next book.
Read in July. Blog review scheduled for Nov. 1.
NetGalley/Thomas & Mercer
Thriller/Suspense. Nov. 13, 2018.
Debris Line finds Gibson Vaughn, Jenn, Hendricks, and George in a small coastal village in Portugal. Their host? A drug smuggler who owes George a favor and is willing to harbor the fugitives for a time.
Then a drug shipment is hijacked. Not taken, but threatened with destruction, and Vaughn and his team must repay the privilege of having enjoyed the kingpin's sanctuary. Or else.
Fast-paced with twists and betrayals and a new protagonist/antagonist? hacker group responsible for the heist. The spokesperson has a great deal of knowledge about Vaughn. Whoever these people are, we can expect to hear more about them in the next book.
Read in July. Blog review scheduled for Nov. 1.
NetGalley/Thomas & Mercer
Thriller/Suspense. Nov. 13, 2018.
July 10, 2019
I can never think of anything to write once I’ve finished a book in this series, and this installment is no exception. This is the fourth installment, and I’ve yet to write a review for the previous three. My mind was a blank at the completion of each, and at the time, I told myself I’d circle back and write a review once I’d had some time to reflect on the each, but that never happened. So, here we are, the fourth installment finished, and once again, I’ve got nothing. I’ve given some thought as to why that is, and I’ve reached the following conclusion: while the plot’s are certainly intricate, and the characters continue to develop, I don’t connect to any of the characters (and they don’t really connect to each other or anyone else for that matter), and I’ve already forgotten them the second I’ve read the last line.
November 27, 2018
I Pity The Fool
What show does this book remind me of? I couldn't place it....uhm....yes!
An episode of The A-Team.
While still on the run from the CIA, FBI, Cold Harbor and others Gibson, Jenna, Kendrick, and George work as soldiers of fortune.
The G team is hiding in Portugal under the protection of crime boss Baltasar.
The godfather asks them for a favor, to retrieve a hijacked drug shipment from a rip crew.
A 'rip crew' is a group of criminals who steal from criminals.
The hijacked drug shipment is being held hostage with a bomb attached to it.
They will detonate it if a substantial ransom isn't paid. Clever plot.
While searching for the criminals who stole the drugs the G Team uncovers a far more sinister secret that may cost them their lives. Dear god no!
I pity the fools who underestimate the G Team
A fast, well written book that reads like a screenplay.
I recommend you read the previous three books.
My first Kindle read.
I think i'll stick with hardcover.
Thanks to Netgalley for the download.
What show does this book remind me of? I couldn't place it....uhm....yes!
An episode of The A-Team.
While still on the run from the CIA, FBI, Cold Harbor and others Gibson, Jenna, Kendrick, and George work as soldiers of fortune.
The G team is hiding in Portugal under the protection of crime boss Baltasar.
The godfather asks them for a favor, to retrieve a hijacked drug shipment from a rip crew.
A 'rip crew' is a group of criminals who steal from criminals.
The hijacked drug shipment is being held hostage with a bomb attached to it.
They will detonate it if a substantial ransom isn't paid. Clever plot.
While searching for the criminals who stole the drugs the G Team uncovers a far more sinister secret that may cost them their lives. Dear god no!
I pity the fools who underestimate the G Team
A fast, well written book that reads like a screenplay.
I recommend you read the previous three books.
My first Kindle read.
I think i'll stick with hardcover.
Thanks to Netgalley for the download.
November 3, 2018
4.25 stars
Well plotted and full of unexpected twists and turns, this book and series always keeps me guessing.
Following Cold Harbor, the intelligent but unlucky gang has reunited comprised of:
Gibson Vaughn
George Abe
Jenn Charles
Dan Hendericks
Nursing their wounds and trying to keep off anyone's radar, they have holed up in Portugal. But trouble doesn't seem to ever be far away with this group, especially given that they are staying at the home of the country's a drug dealer, Baltasar Alves. Apparently, George's judge of character is still out of whack, putting the whole group back in a vulnerable state.
When one of Alves' shipments is hijacked in a very unusual way, the group is forced to solve his problem. How they do so is unexpected. As always, Gibson's intelligence is remarkable, and his plan gives them some hope of getting out of the situation alive.
But this story is much more than one about recovering the shipment.
Other threats include:
***Internal conflict within Alves's group.
- Although Alves is the big dog in the story, the main threats come from two of his family members, his son, Fernando Alves, and his niece, Luisa Mata. Both are terrifying in their own way. Fernando is ruthless and is willing to break family bonds to gain power. Luisa is a badass who despite being a woman, shows she isn't weak and can think two steps ahead of her rivals.
***The hijacker's bigger plan.
***And the surprise video's found on Alves's computer.
While it is not surprising that the group of Musketeers find a way to survive multiple threats, how they do so is what is so impressive. Each member of the group is skilled in what they do and prove themselves invaluable throughout this story. And in true Musketeer fashion, they vow to fight to the bitter end.
As I was reading this book, I was certain it would end in a cliffhanger, as the story is so complex, I didn't see everything being resolved in one book. However, the author managed to pull things together towards the end, giving the reader a satisfying conclusion. That is not to say all threats are neutralized. So I'm looking forward to where things lead next.
*An ARC was received via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
Well plotted and full of unexpected twists and turns, this book and series always keeps me guessing.
Following Cold Harbor, the intelligent but unlucky gang has reunited comprised of:
Gibson Vaughn
George Abe
Jenn Charles
Dan Hendericks
Nursing their wounds and trying to keep off anyone's radar, they have holed up in Portugal. But trouble doesn't seem to ever be far away with this group, especially given that they are staying at the home of the country's a drug dealer, Baltasar Alves. Apparently, George's judge of character is still out of whack, putting the whole group back in a vulnerable state.
When one of Alves' shipments is hijacked in a very unusual way, the group is forced to solve his problem. How they do so is unexpected. As always, Gibson's intelligence is remarkable, and his plan gives them some hope of getting out of the situation alive.
But this story is much more than one about recovering the shipment.
Other threats include:
***Internal conflict within Alves's group.
- Although Alves is the big dog in the story, the main threats come from two of his family members, his son, Fernando Alves, and his niece, Luisa Mata. Both are terrifying in their own way. Fernando is ruthless and is willing to break family bonds to gain power. Luisa is a badass who despite being a woman, shows she isn't weak and can think two steps ahead of her rivals.
***The hijacker's bigger plan.
***And the surprise video's found on Alves's computer.
While it is not surprising that the group of Musketeers find a way to survive multiple threats, how they do so is what is so impressive. Each member of the group is skilled in what they do and prove themselves invaluable throughout this story. And in true Musketeer fashion, they vow to fight to the bitter end.
As I was reading this book, I was certain it would end in a cliffhanger, as the story is so complex, I didn't see everything being resolved in one book. However, the author managed to pull things together towards the end, giving the reader a satisfying conclusion. That is not to say all threats are neutralized. So I'm looking forward to where things lead next.
*An ARC was received via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
June 26, 2020
I love the Gibson Vaughn series, but this one was slow for me. Not bad, but I just wasn’t super excited to pick it up like I was the first three.
November 13, 2018
The 4th book in the fabulous Gibson Vaughn serie is out today! If you read the previous books you should not miss it, if you haven't, better to start from the beginning. You can read it as a stand-alone and it would work perfectly fine, but you will probably miss some depth and also, since the first book was my favourite in the serie, I really think it would be a shame not to start there.
As I said I Loved "The Short Drop" (Gibson Vaughn #1), I wasn't exactly mad about the cliffhanger in "Poisonfeather" but "Cold Harbor" convinced me to go on with the serie. This fourth instalment is a little bit different from its predecessors, it's set in Portugal, I loved the change, and there are also a bunch of new characters, all quite uniques. It was good to finally see the four MCs spend some time together (or at least close if not exactly together..) even if somehow I missed something more "personal" that captured me and made me fall in love with the first book.
Anyway the plot is really good, some twists along the way, the writing is superb, so I completely enjoy the time I spent reading that adventure and I'm in line for the next book when it will be out. I'm also curious what the author would write if he ever decide to try with another serie or maybe a stand-alone, I trust him to do a good work whatever it would be!
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me ARC of that book in exchange for an honest review.
As I said I Loved "The Short Drop" (Gibson Vaughn #1), I wasn't exactly mad about the cliffhanger in "Poisonfeather" but "Cold Harbor" convinced me to go on with the serie. This fourth instalment is a little bit different from its predecessors, it's set in Portugal, I loved the change, and there are also a bunch of new characters, all quite uniques. It was good to finally see the four MCs spend some time together (or at least close if not exactly together..) even if somehow I missed something more "personal" that captured me and made me fall in love with the first book.
Anyway the plot is really good, some twists along the way, the writing is superb, so I completely enjoy the time I spent reading that adventure and I'm in line for the next book when it will be out. I'm also curious what the author would write if he ever decide to try with another serie or maybe a stand-alone, I trust him to do a good work whatever it would be!
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me ARC of that book in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2018
The thriller Debris Line interchanges the sunny, idyllic life of coastal Portugal, crashing it into a star-spangled actioneer of drugs, hijacking, murder, and oh yes, crimes even more sinister. Matthew FitzSimmons runs his dangerous version of To Catch A Thief by placing his team of semi-retired hackers and military ops at play on vacation and even in love, until being forced back into action – at least as advisers – in a case of a textbook hijacking. George Abe and hacker Gibson Vaughn quickly learn that their benefactor has interesting enemies as they are forced to both clear their name, and also prevent a civil war between the cartel.
Following the initial Gibson Vaughn trilogy, Debris Line is undoubtedly a palate cleanser. The acquainted, and by this point likable, characters have been positioned in an entirely-different location, with an unfamiliar local language, forcing them to scrap with limited resources, Ferraris and Audis notwithstanding. The creation of a great cast, which includes former-LAPD Dan Hendricks and ex-CIA Jenn Charles, means for this outing, the spotlight is communal. Vaughn, then, doesn’t get the chance to shine. When Han Solo joined the Rebels and Batman formed the Justice League, character understood the necessity of the team. Vaughn’s private arc concluded with Cold Harbor . George Abe is firmly set here as team lead. When Leia is in the comm, Han is solely a pilot. Batman works in the shadows of Superman’s radiance. An independent hacker-operator’s skill is now, well, only needed for special occasions. Fortunately, and something that FitzSimmons has been strong to uphold ever since the Short Drop , is restraining Vaughn’s abilities, removing him as a deus ex machina savior with his Hollywood-level science. Debris Line is a team effort, and Vaughn, maturing since his inception, is now a team player.
FitzSimmons subtlety works in an unresolved plot element, one that will hopefully grow. In fact, it was surprising not to have Vaughn’s special benefactors revealed in a plot-shaking twist. Instead, FitzSimmons allows the marinara to simmer while keeping the plot al dente.
Debris Line is a fast book, but FitzSimmons’ pacing is never rushed. The action explodes when the much-needed tension requires a release, but all the characters are given their due. Of course, throttling back on any such twists truly prevented Debris Line from rocketing into orbit. If anything, this read needed to be a touch wilder with its exploration.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advance copy and fun read. I’m a fan and continue to look forward to FitzSimmons’ next novel.
Click on over to my site Read@Joe's for this review and more!
Following the initial Gibson Vaughn trilogy, Debris Line is undoubtedly a palate cleanser. The acquainted, and by this point likable, characters have been positioned in an entirely-different location, with an unfamiliar local language, forcing them to scrap with limited resources, Ferraris and Audis notwithstanding. The creation of a great cast, which includes former-LAPD Dan Hendricks and ex-CIA Jenn Charles, means for this outing, the spotlight is communal. Vaughn, then, doesn’t get the chance to shine. When Han Solo joined the Rebels and Batman formed the Justice League, character understood the necessity of the team. Vaughn’s private arc concluded with Cold Harbor . George Abe is firmly set here as team lead. When Leia is in the comm, Han is solely a pilot. Batman works in the shadows of Superman’s radiance. An independent hacker-operator’s skill is now, well, only needed for special occasions. Fortunately, and something that FitzSimmons has been strong to uphold ever since the Short Drop , is restraining Vaughn’s abilities, removing him as a deus ex machina savior with his Hollywood-level science. Debris Line is a team effort, and Vaughn, maturing since his inception, is now a team player.
FitzSimmons subtlety works in an unresolved plot element, one that will hopefully grow. In fact, it was surprising not to have Vaughn’s special benefactors revealed in a plot-shaking twist. Instead, FitzSimmons allows the marinara to simmer while keeping the plot al dente.
Debris Line is a fast book, but FitzSimmons’ pacing is never rushed. The action explodes when the much-needed tension requires a release, but all the characters are given their due. Of course, throttling back on any such twists truly prevented Debris Line from rocketing into orbit. If anything, this read needed to be a touch wilder with its exploration.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advance copy and fun read. I’m a fan and continue to look forward to FitzSimmons’ next novel.
Click on over to my site Read@Joe's for this review and more!
September 27, 2018
The Best Gibson Vaughn Book So Far
This is the fourth book in the series. The last book, Cold Harbor, was a real rollercoaster of a story. I was hoping for another good novel, but this novel over delivered! This novel opens on the waters off southern Portugal with a fishing boat that is not fishing for fish. The next day Gibson Vaughn gets ready for a morning run. He is sharing building owned by an old associate of George Abe who is the local crime boss. George’s employees, Dan Hendricks, ex LA cop, and Jenn Charles, ex CIA, share the building. They are all lying low as they are the subjects of a global FBI search for them along with a paramilitary organization, Cold Harbor. They are all relaxing and enjoying the present and not seriously looking to the future as they will have to leave sometime. All four were collected and brought to the estate of George’s old associate. He has a problem, a major drug shipment has been high jacked, and he wanted their help. Everyone in his organization that he formed from four drug gangs is against it. The novel takes off from here and navigates through many twists, turns, and misdirections all set in an environment of much internal conflict within Gibson’s team, much internal conflict within drug organization, and much conflict between Gibson’s team and the drug organization. At this point my attention was locked into this story. I finished it in three days that has only happened once before.
The aspect of that I really enjoyed how the author turned a team that was in a real deep doldrums and transitioned into their old selves to meet the many obstacles in their way.
The B-story was quite rich and the author wove it into the main storyline quite well. Since this novel started with all of the main characters at a low, some of their pent up feelings were being expressed by the characters. As the team coalesces to the task at hand, more history and feelings are revealed. All of this enriched my reading enjoyment and kept me reading.
There was some vulgar language but all were context appropriate and no graphic sex scenes. There is violence, but they were quick murders. Only one scene of torturer that one was mostly implied. These aspects should not impose barriers to reading this novel.
While the start of this novel did refer back to the events of the last novel, all references were explained so if this is the first novel of the series that you will read, not having read the first three should not lessen your reading enjoyment of this novel. If fact, it might make you want to go back and read them.
Overall, I rate this novel with five stars. I am definitely waiting for the fifth novel in this series due out in November 2019.
I have received a free kindle version of this novel through NetGalley from Thomas & Mercer with a request for an honest, unbiased review. I wish to thank Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this novel early.
This is the fourth book in the series. The last book, Cold Harbor, was a real rollercoaster of a story. I was hoping for another good novel, but this novel over delivered! This novel opens on the waters off southern Portugal with a fishing boat that is not fishing for fish. The next day Gibson Vaughn gets ready for a morning run. He is sharing building owned by an old associate of George Abe who is the local crime boss. George’s employees, Dan Hendricks, ex LA cop, and Jenn Charles, ex CIA, share the building. They are all lying low as they are the subjects of a global FBI search for them along with a paramilitary organization, Cold Harbor. They are all relaxing and enjoying the present and not seriously looking to the future as they will have to leave sometime. All four were collected and brought to the estate of George’s old associate. He has a problem, a major drug shipment has been high jacked, and he wanted their help. Everyone in his organization that he formed from four drug gangs is against it. The novel takes off from here and navigates through many twists, turns, and misdirections all set in an environment of much internal conflict within Gibson’s team, much internal conflict within drug organization, and much conflict between Gibson’s team and the drug organization. At this point my attention was locked into this story. I finished it in three days that has only happened once before.
The aspect of that I really enjoyed how the author turned a team that was in a real deep doldrums and transitioned into their old selves to meet the many obstacles in their way.
The B-story was quite rich and the author wove it into the main storyline quite well. Since this novel started with all of the main characters at a low, some of their pent up feelings were being expressed by the characters. As the team coalesces to the task at hand, more history and feelings are revealed. All of this enriched my reading enjoyment and kept me reading.
There was some vulgar language but all were context appropriate and no graphic sex scenes. There is violence, but they were quick murders. Only one scene of torturer that one was mostly implied. These aspects should not impose barriers to reading this novel.
While the start of this novel did refer back to the events of the last novel, all references were explained so if this is the first novel of the series that you will read, not having read the first three should not lessen your reading enjoyment of this novel. If fact, it might make you want to go back and read them.
Overall, I rate this novel with five stars. I am definitely waiting for the fifth novel in this series due out in November 2019.
I have received a free kindle version of this novel through NetGalley from Thomas & Mercer with a request for an honest, unbiased review. I wish to thank Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this novel early.
November 8, 2018
Matthew FitzSimmons continues to write brilliant books about Gibson Vaughn, his tech-savvy protagonist with a conscience. The series of now four books has been a little up and down for me, although it never got worse than "good" in the somewhat bleak book 2 (Poisonfeather), but it is once again in the "brilliant" category.
FitzSimmons is an excellent writer and the pages just fly by with an easy flow, and this time around, he has reduced the nerdy IT explanations that have been a little tiresome in his past books.
I thought that the excellent third book of the series, Cold Harbor, was going to be the last we would hear of Gibson Vaughn, but FitzSimmons changed the setting to Europe in this fourth installation, and it turned out just as brilliant and exciting with all kinds of bad guys up to no good.
New readers should not drop into the series in this fourth book as a lot much needed background info from the first three books will be missing from the reader's picture.
Summing up, this is a great fourth volume of a fabulous series that I really recommend to all fans of thrillers with protagonists with a conscience that makes things difficult for themselves.
[An ARC of the book was generously provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review]
FitzSimmons is an excellent writer and the pages just fly by with an easy flow, and this time around, he has reduced the nerdy IT explanations that have been a little tiresome in his past books.
I thought that the excellent third book of the series, Cold Harbor, was going to be the last we would hear of Gibson Vaughn, but FitzSimmons changed the setting to Europe in this fourth installation, and it turned out just as brilliant and exciting with all kinds of bad guys up to no good.
New readers should not drop into the series in this fourth book as a lot much needed background info from the first three books will be missing from the reader's picture.
Summing up, this is a great fourth volume of a fabulous series that I really recommend to all fans of thrillers with protagonists with a conscience that makes things difficult for themselves.
[An ARC of the book was generously provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review]
April 11, 2019
Debris Line, even if you haven't read the previous novels in this series, is standalone fantastic. Having read the other books, I slipped into this story seamlessly, effortlessly, like warm water set to boil slowly. As with all of FitzSimmons's books, the hook is early, then again soon after, then repeatedly over the course of the story. You catch yourself saying, just one more chapter before bed, but realize it was a lie to yourself three chapters later.
The air in Portugal was hot, heavy, filled with smells and sounds, and felt throughout. This is a story that transports, captures, and has its way with you. I enjoyed discovering more about the small troop of fugitives and when events became violent, I found comfort where they did...in each other.
Another winner from Matthew FitzSimmons, and another set up for more to come. I only regret I'll have to wait.
I definitely recommend this story to anyone who likes thrillers, action, mystery, and/or suspense,
The air in Portugal was hot, heavy, filled with smells and sounds, and felt throughout. This is a story that transports, captures, and has its way with you. I enjoyed discovering more about the small troop of fugitives and when events became violent, I found comfort where they did...in each other.
Another winner from Matthew FitzSimmons, and another set up for more to come. I only regret I'll have to wait.
I definitely recommend this story to anyone who likes thrillers, action, mystery, and/or suspense,
August 30, 2018
First, thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the Advance Readers Copy of DEBRIS LINE. I've really enjoyed the Gibson Vaughn series to date, but this one wasn't up to the standards of the first three. Perhaps it was the change in setting (Portugal rather than the Northeast US), or the fact that all 4 protagonists are on the run, hiding out under the protection of a Portugese mob boss. While I applaud the slow recovery of George Abe, and the continued irascibility of Hendricks, this book did very little to develop the character of Gibson. The plot was interesting, the story well told, but I do enjoy the growth of characters in a series, which was a little lacking here. That said, I'll continue to read the series, and look forward to the next installment.
Read
January 23, 2019Our hero, Gibson Vaughn, returns with his old team, now in Portugal, after fleeing the U.S. at the end of his last adventure. Author Matthew FitzSimmons writes taut, tight prose that makes it impossible to stop reading, even late at night. The details of the story never overwhelm the characters or the sense of movement, as readers follow along breathlessly to see what new twist will occur. This is a fun book to read for lovers of political thrillers; it’s only downside, that it ends. -Suzanne R.
August 2, 2018
Debris Line is the fourth excellent and fast-paced thriller in the Gibson Vaughn series written by author Matthew FitzSimmons. I highly recommend this series. Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for the advance copy.
May 4, 2020
Meh. Losing interest in Gibson Vaughn and his adventures in a hurry.
The story seems to be pulled from you’re everyday Drug Cartel miniseries and gets blended into Human Trafficking. Just not in a very exciting or suspenseful way.
And the authors attempts at “adulting” it up a little fall short. He tried to add some sex and dirty talk into the characters lives, but it didn’t work well.
He also relies heavily on technology, but seems to only have a very basic knowledge of the WiFi world and it’s capabilities that leaves a lot to the trusting imagination. I’m not saying I know anything about that world, but reading, or listening, in a book leaves the reader wondering.
I’ve said before, it’s hard to write a trilogy. And this being book 4 makes it even more difficult for the author to keep my attention. I’m kind of dreading book 5.
The story seems to be pulled from you’re everyday Drug Cartel miniseries and gets blended into Human Trafficking. Just not in a very exciting or suspenseful way.
And the authors attempts at “adulting” it up a little fall short. He tried to add some sex and dirty talk into the characters lives, but it didn’t work well.
He also relies heavily on technology, but seems to only have a very basic knowledge of the WiFi world and it’s capabilities that leaves a lot to the trusting imagination. I’m not saying I know anything about that world, but reading, or listening, in a book leaves the reader wondering.
I’ve said before, it’s hard to write a trilogy. And this being book 4 makes it even more difficult for the author to keep my attention. I’m kind of dreading book 5.
November 29, 2018
I inhaled the first three books in the Gibson Vaughn series and Debris Line was no different. Matthew FitzSimmons is a consummate “thrill a minute” thought provoking writer. He has created the most damaged characters, inhabited their minds and imbued them with extraordinary ethical values. They can maim and kill but they can’t stand by as witness to injustice and depravity.
Set in the Algarve region in Portugal this book wraps around the gang/drug war conflicts of the drug syndicates and the deals that have been made. Gibson Vaughn, Jenn Charles, George Abe and Dan Hendricks were hiding in plain sight under the patronage of Baltasar Alves, the godfather of all in the Algarve. When Alves demands his retribution, they once again become entangled in a mess that can only pull them under.
Another great book in the Gibson Vaughn series, MORE PLEASE!
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy.
Set in the Algarve region in Portugal this book wraps around the gang/drug war conflicts of the drug syndicates and the deals that have been made. Gibson Vaughn, Jenn Charles, George Abe and Dan Hendricks were hiding in plain sight under the patronage of Baltasar Alves, the godfather of all in the Algarve. When Alves demands his retribution, they once again become entangled in a mess that can only pull them under.
Another great book in the Gibson Vaughn series, MORE PLEASE!
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy.
December 1, 2019
After months of lying low and enjoying the easy life in the south of Portugal while trying to stay off the radar of the FBI and anyone else who wants a piece of them, all hell is about to break loose yet again for Gibson Vaughn and the rest of the team. Their host, who just so happens to be the drug smuggling kingpin of the area, expects payment for the hospitality he's afforded them. A valuable shipment of drugs from a Mexican cartel has been hijacked and must be retrieved on a tight deadline. And as if that's not difficult enough, there's a lot more going on than first meets the eye in this high stakes mission.
Fastpaced, brutal and gripping - another edge-of-your-seat thriller with plenty of twists.
Fastpaced, brutal and gripping - another edge-of-your-seat thriller with plenty of twists.
November 25, 2018
In my opinion Debris Line was a lot better than Cold Harbor. In my opinion the end was a little long winded for my taste. Yet overall this book was really good. Matthew Fitzsimmons gave suspense, action and twist that most will not see coming. I had the betrayer figured out the minute he was introduced to the story. Even with that it was still a page turner. There were times things were a little confusing. In my opinion Matthew Fitzsimmons wrapped things up pretty good, but left some questions to be answered in future books. If you are a Matthew Fitzsimmons fan, in my opinion he does not let you down. If you have read the other Gibson Vaughn Series then I would recommend Debris Line. I read on Kindle Unlimited.
November 28, 2018
Awesome read! Awesome author! Awesome characters!
Absolutely love the Gibson Vaughn series. Debris Line has become my favorite thus far. Can hardly wait for the next one. Fitzsimmons is my new favorite author. While Gibson Vaughn is the star of the series, my favorite character in the series is Dan Hendricks. He is HILARIOUS! 😂 I love Fitzsimmons' writing style.
Fun reading. Literally could not put this book down. Almost read it in one sitting, but minor distractions led me to three sittings instead. Highly recommend this book and the series in general, but each one does not overlap much so it doesn't matter which one you start first. At least for me it didn't.
Absolutely love the Gibson Vaughn series. Debris Line has become my favorite thus far. Can hardly wait for the next one. Fitzsimmons is my new favorite author. While Gibson Vaughn is the star of the series, my favorite character in the series is Dan Hendricks. He is HILARIOUS! 😂 I love Fitzsimmons' writing style.
Fun reading. Literally could not put this book down. Almost read it in one sitting, but minor distractions led me to three sittings instead. Highly recommend this book and the series in general, but each one does not overlap much so it doesn't matter which one you start first. At least for me it didn't.
December 12, 2018
Quite an exceptional departure...
...from other FitzSimmons books, but one worthy of your attention! Although this is a work of fiction, I felt transported to the Algarve, Portugal along with the American characters in the book, who melded together to right a terrible wrong discovered during their brief stay. The Portuguese characters were well developed and alive, giving the reader a capsule of what life may be in a land more distant than I will reach.
...from other FitzSimmons books, but one worthy of your attention! Although this is a work of fiction, I felt transported to the Algarve, Portugal along with the American characters in the book, who melded together to right a terrible wrong discovered during their brief stay. The Portuguese characters were well developed and alive, giving the reader a capsule of what life may be in a land more distant than I will reach.
December 12, 2018
Pretty good although the ending is too chaotic. Up till then it’s very smooth with Vaughn and his team of fugitives, on the run in Portugal, manipulated by two criminal conspiracies, one small and local, and the other big and shadowy. Getting out of one predicament reveals a third criminal conspiracy that sparks off the overheated ending. The factional plotting and the family dynamics of the Portuguese gang is very good as is the dialogue.
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