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Jonathan Hunter Thriller #1
The Consultant
Terrorism hits Main Street America
When a rogue CIA consultant goes AWOL from his Middle Eastern post in response to his brother’s plea for help, he arrives just in time to witness his brother’s murder. For years, Jonathan Hunter and his brother Kevin Mallory had not spoken—until Kevin’s final words, “… Khalifah … Not Them … Maya.”
Pursuing his brother’s killer, Hunter stumbles into a nest of horrifying terrorist activity by Middle Eastern refugees, which sparks a backlash across America. In the shadows, Hunter’s mentor, the omnipotent Oscar LaRue, is playing a dangerous game with Russian Intelligence. Neither Hunter nor LaRue realizes that a new threat—the Iranian threat—has entered the game. Stakes rise as two shadowy players are one step ahead of Hunter and LaRue—Khalifah, a terrorist mastermind, and Caine, a nomadic assassin who dances with the highest bidder.
As attacks escalate and the country drifts toward another Middle East conflict, innocent refugees become trapped between the terrorists and the terrorized. Prejudice, hate, and fear vent everywhere. Is this who we’ve become? Before the country explodes, Hunter must find Khalifah, learn the next terror target, and pray he’s in time to stop further annihilation.
When a rogue CIA consultant goes AWOL from his Middle Eastern post in response to his brother’s plea for help, he arrives just in time to witness his brother’s murder. For years, Jonathan Hunter and his brother Kevin Mallory had not spoken—until Kevin’s final words, “… Khalifah … Not Them … Maya.”
Pursuing his brother’s killer, Hunter stumbles into a nest of horrifying terrorist activity by Middle Eastern refugees, which sparks a backlash across America. In the shadows, Hunter’s mentor, the omnipotent Oscar LaRue, is playing a dangerous game with Russian Intelligence. Neither Hunter nor LaRue realizes that a new threat—the Iranian threat—has entered the game. Stakes rise as two shadowy players are one step ahead of Hunter and LaRue—Khalifah, a terrorist mastermind, and Caine, a nomadic assassin who dances with the highest bidder.
As attacks escalate and the country drifts toward another Middle East conflict, innocent refugees become trapped between the terrorists and the terrorized. Prejudice, hate, and fear vent everywhere. Is this who we’ve become? Before the country explodes, Hunter must find Khalifah, learn the next terror target, and pray he’s in time to stop further annihilation.
429 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2018
51 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Tj O'Connor
8 books211 followersTj O’Connor is an award-winning author of mysteries and thrillers. He’s an international security consultant specializing in anti-terrorism, investigations, and threat analysis—life experiences that drive his novels. With his former life as a government agent and years as a consultant, he has lived and worked around the world in places like Greece, Turkey, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, and throughout the Americas—among others. In his spare time, he’s a Harley Davidson pilot, a man-about-dogs (and now cats), and a lover of adventure, cooking, and good spirits (both kinds). He was raised in New York’s Hudson Valley and now lives with his wife, Labs, and Maine Coon companions in Virginia where they raised five children who are supplying a growing tribe of grands.
Tj’s work has been recognized with: The American Legacy Award for Political Thrillers; the American Fiction Awards for Political Thrillers & Mystery/Suspense; Gold Medal from the Independent Publishers Book Awards (IPPY) for mysteries; Gold Medal Winner—Military Writer’s Society of America; Gold Medal Winner—Readers Favorite Book Awards; Bronze Medal Winner from the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards; and a finalist for The Silver Falchion Award Finalist for Mysteries and Thrillers; Foreword Reviews’ INDIEFAB Mystery Book of the Year; and the Deadly Ink’s David Award Finalist for Best Mystery/Thriller.
Learn about Tj’s world at:
Web Site: www.tjoconnor.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tjoconnor.author
Blog: https://tjoconnor.com/theplotthickens/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/tjoconnor
Twitter: https://x.com/Tjoconnorauthor
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tjoconnoraut...
Tj’s work has been recognized with: The American Legacy Award for Political Thrillers; the American Fiction Awards for Political Thrillers & Mystery/Suspense; Gold Medal from the Independent Publishers Book Awards (IPPY) for mysteries; Gold Medal Winner—Military Writer’s Society of America; Gold Medal Winner—Readers Favorite Book Awards; Bronze Medal Winner from the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards; and a finalist for The Silver Falchion Award Finalist for Mysteries and Thrillers; Foreword Reviews’ INDIEFAB Mystery Book of the Year; and the Deadly Ink’s David Award Finalist for Best Mystery/Thriller.
Learn about Tj’s world at:
Web Site: www.tjoconnor.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tjoconnor.author
Blog: https://tjoconnor.com/theplotthickens/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/tjoconnor
Twitter: https://x.com/Tjoconnorauthor
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tjoconnoraut...
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March 22, 2018
When a rogue CIA consultant goes AWOL from his Middle Eastern post in response to his brothers plea for help, he arrives just in time to witness his brothers murder. For years, Johnathon Hunter and his brother Kevin Mallory had not spoken - until Kevin's final words "Khalifah......Not Them......Maya." Perusing his brothers killer, Hunter stumbles into a nest of horrifying terrorist activity by Middle Eastern refugees, which spark a backlash across America.
This book does get a bit complicated, at times I did not know who was working for who. The book is well written, gripping and an action packed read. This book grabbed me from the beginning and kept me engaged in the story to the very last page.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Oceanview Publishing and the author Tj O'Connor for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book does get a bit complicated, at times I did not know who was working for who. The book is well written, gripping and an action packed read. This book grabbed me from the beginning and kept me engaged in the story to the very last page.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Oceanview Publishing and the author Tj O'Connor for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2018
Jon Hunter gets home from overseas just in time to witness his brother's murder. The two had not been close and had not spoken in years, but Jon will avenge his brother's death.
The local detectives are not enamored of Jon ... and they feel he is hiding something. Was he complicit in his brother's death? And isn't it a funny coincidence that a bunch of Middle Eastern men blow up the shopping center where he is?
If he acts like a professional, it is because he is. Right now he's a CIA operative who went AWOL when his brother called. But now his supervisor has not only located him, but is following in his wake .... for his own purposes.
There is so much action involved in this story that could be taken from today's headlines. There is a mixture of foreign agencies .... from Russian intelligence, and Iranian terrorists. Bombs, shootings, arson .... something on almost every page. This is a very well written story with credible characters and action galore. The adrenaline just flows and flows.
I wish to thank the author / Oceanview Publishing / Edelweiss for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
The local detectives are not enamored of Jon ... and they feel he is hiding something. Was he complicit in his brother's death? And isn't it a funny coincidence that a bunch of Middle Eastern men blow up the shopping center where he is?
If he acts like a professional, it is because he is. Right now he's a CIA operative who went AWOL when his brother called. But now his supervisor has not only located him, but is following in his wake .... for his own purposes.
There is so much action involved in this story that could be taken from today's headlines. There is a mixture of foreign agencies .... from Russian intelligence, and Iranian terrorists. Bombs, shootings, arson .... something on almost every page. This is a very well written story with credible characters and action galore. The adrenaline just flows and flows.
I wish to thank the author / Oceanview Publishing / Edelweiss for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
May 15, 2018
Called home by the brother he hasn’t seen in years, Jonathan Hunter arrives just in time to witness his brother’s death and hear his dying words, cryptic clues which plunge Hunter headfirst into a nest of terrorists planning to execute a series of horrifying attacks.
Fortunately, Hunter is a ‘consultant’ for the CIA, tasked with taking care of the dirty, deniable jobs Uncle Sam can’t publicly admit to. If anyone can solve the puzzle in time to save those at risk, it’s Hunter.
This is a brilliantly plotted thrill ride with some fantastic characters and excellent execution. I really didn’t figure out the mastermind until the author revealed it to us, and although there were a fair number of characters in the book the characterisation of each was good enough I was never confused about who was who. Hunter is a wonderful and often hilarious protagonist; though extremely competent at what he does he also has some hysterical accidents such as the concealed rake in the grass hitting him in the face as he’s patrolling a property. His occasional asides - they’re too short to really call them inner monologues - are pithy and exceptionally funny. Apparently, this is the first in a series, which is honestly great news because Hunter is absolutely a hero I’d love to see more of.
While there was a great deal to like about this book, it wasn’t entirely without flaw. There were a number of grammatical issues which made me think it needed a thorough line editing. One of the worst, repeated several times, was the author’s fondness for the term ‘exploded’, as in “Her beautiful dark eyes exploded.” In a book with violent scenes of death and graphic violence, that really isn’t good imagery to use, and a good line editor would have helped make that into something less jarring.
It’s a real shame about the editing issues. Because of them, I have to knock this back from five down to four stars, but it’s still very much worth a read for the great plot and characters.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Fortunately, Hunter is a ‘consultant’ for the CIA, tasked with taking care of the dirty, deniable jobs Uncle Sam can’t publicly admit to. If anyone can solve the puzzle in time to save those at risk, it’s Hunter.
This is a brilliantly plotted thrill ride with some fantastic characters and excellent execution. I really didn’t figure out the mastermind until the author revealed it to us, and although there were a fair number of characters in the book the characterisation of each was good enough I was never confused about who was who. Hunter is a wonderful and often hilarious protagonist; though extremely competent at what he does he also has some hysterical accidents such as the concealed rake in the grass hitting him in the face as he’s patrolling a property. His occasional asides - they’re too short to really call them inner monologues - are pithy and exceptionally funny. Apparently, this is the first in a series, which is honestly great news because Hunter is absolutely a hero I’d love to see more of.
While there was a great deal to like about this book, it wasn’t entirely without flaw. There were a number of grammatical issues which made me think it needed a thorough line editing. One of the worst, repeated several times, was the author’s fondness for the term ‘exploded’, as in “Her beautiful dark eyes exploded.” In a book with violent scenes of death and graphic violence, that really isn’t good imagery to use, and a good line editor would have helped make that into something less jarring.
It’s a real shame about the editing issues. Because of them, I have to knock this back from five down to four stars, but it’s still very much worth a read for the great plot and characters.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
September 17, 2023
The Consultant by T.J.O'Connor is the first in the Jonathan Hunter Thriller! It pretty much grabs you from the beginning as his brother, Kevin Mallory had contacted him, and Jonathan, ex-CIA, arrives in time to watch his brother die plus be shot at himself. Now he has to figure out why his brother was targeted.
Could his brother have been a dirty cop? That is what Jonathan has to find out. Kevin leaves a wife and son, that Jonathan did not know about. In trying to protect them Jonathan is in the crosshairs of the terrorists of Middle Eastern descent. He must find Khalifah, the terrorist mastermind who always stays a step ahead of Jonathan. A man called Caine is a rogue, nomadic man who does the highest bidders' wishes.
Will this terror end any time soon and will Jonathan find out why his brother was killed? In trying to find the answers to this, he also has to protect his sister-in-law and nephew before they are targets of the assassins.
Hatred and fear take center stage in this explosive novel. Impeccably researched and written this is one of the best espionage/ terrorist books I have read in a while. Keeps the reader turning the pages. I read this book in two sittings. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more by this author!
I give it 5 stars
I was given a copy of the book for review purposes only.
Could his brother have been a dirty cop? That is what Jonathan has to find out. Kevin leaves a wife and son, that Jonathan did not know about. In trying to protect them Jonathan is in the crosshairs of the terrorists of Middle Eastern descent. He must find Khalifah, the terrorist mastermind who always stays a step ahead of Jonathan. A man called Caine is a rogue, nomadic man who does the highest bidders' wishes.
Will this terror end any time soon and will Jonathan find out why his brother was killed? In trying to find the answers to this, he also has to protect his sister-in-law and nephew before they are targets of the assassins.
Hatred and fear take center stage in this explosive novel. Impeccably researched and written this is one of the best espionage/ terrorist books I have read in a while. Keeps the reader turning the pages. I read this book in two sittings. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more by this author!
I give it 5 stars
I was given a copy of the book for review purposes only.
February 27, 2023
The Consultant is not what I would normally buy but since I liked all his other books, I bought and read it. Not many books grab me on the first page, however this one did. I could not put the book down. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. For all of you out there who have not read it, do so. It will not disappoint.
July 28, 2024
The adrenaline spikes from the very first sentence, and the suspense builds with every turn of the page, leading to the storyline climax of gripping intensity. A CIA consultant more at home in foreign lands than the streets he left behind. He’ll have to find a way to live with the facts. The fact that his brother wrote him a letter asking for his help after 20 years of no communication. The fact that he didn't receive the letter until weeks after it was sent. The fact that the riverbank, once the favorite fishing spot for him and his brother, is the place he held his brother while he said his final words and took his final breath. The fact that he didn't get home in time. The fact that hours after meeting his brother's wife and son, a wife and son he didn't even know his brother had, he's amid shadows and terrorism on domestic soil.
The story is filled with suspense, intrigue, deception, unexpected twists, and tangled threads. It's riveting, with characters who draw attention to threats that may never make the headlines for what they truly are. Each chapter starts by specifying the day, date, and time in military format, along with the location, keeping the precision taut over the course of the seven days of the narrative.
Some people may not appreciate Hunter's sarcastic commentary, which he calls wit and charm, but don't be deceived into thinking he's not the man for the job. Similarly, some may not appreciate his mentor, Oscar LaRue, but don't be deceived into believing he's more interested in drinking his tea or eating his meal. In reality, he is a master strategist, always steps ahead of his team, analyzing data as soon as it’s available, piecing it together, giving his team directions and support if he can, and giving them leeway when he cannot but always reigning them back in at the end.
The answer to the authenticity that illuminates every chapter may be discovered by reading the author’s Dedication and Acknowledgements at the beginning of the novel and Bio on his website.
The story is filled with suspense, intrigue, deception, unexpected twists, and tangled threads. It's riveting, with characters who draw attention to threats that may never make the headlines for what they truly are. Each chapter starts by specifying the day, date, and time in military format, along with the location, keeping the precision taut over the course of the seven days of the narrative.
Some people may not appreciate Hunter's sarcastic commentary, which he calls wit and charm, but don't be deceived into thinking he's not the man for the job. Similarly, some may not appreciate his mentor, Oscar LaRue, but don't be deceived into believing he's more interested in drinking his tea or eating his meal. In reality, he is a master strategist, always steps ahead of his team, analyzing data as soon as it’s available, piecing it together, giving his team directions and support if he can, and giving them leeway when he cannot but always reigning them back in at the end.
The answer to the authenticity that illuminates every chapter may be discovered by reading the author’s Dedication and Acknowledgements at the beginning of the novel and Bio on his website.
October 26, 2018
The Consultant is the beginning of the Jonathan Hunter Thriller series. It is, also, my first book I have read by T J O'Connor. After reading this one, I will be looking for more by him in the future. He has earned himself a new fan. I thought this book was a great read.
The Consultant involves Jonathan Hunter investigating to find out who killed his brother, Kevin. During his investigation, he discovers terrorists among refugees from Middle Eastern countries. Other dangerous activities happen from the other places around the world, including Russia and Iran. During this time, innocent people get in the middle and receive horrible threats. Can Hunter help to stop more terror before it destroys the country?
The Consultant is one of those books that is full of danger and suspense. The kind that keeps a reader on the edge of their seat until they have finished the last page. It is heart stopping action and mystery that makes one wonder what could happen next. It is definitely not one that I could have ever predicted. I had a hard time putting it down and wound up reading the whole book in one day.
The Consultant is getting a well deserved five plus stars from me. I will be anxiously waiting for the second book from the Jonathan Hunter Thriller series. Until then, I will have to pick up another T J O'Connor novel to fill the time.
I highly recommend The Consultant for readers who love to read well written and fabulous thrillers.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
The Consultant involves Jonathan Hunter investigating to find out who killed his brother, Kevin. During his investigation, he discovers terrorists among refugees from Middle Eastern countries. Other dangerous activities happen from the other places around the world, including Russia and Iran. During this time, innocent people get in the middle and receive horrible threats. Can Hunter help to stop more terror before it destroys the country?
The Consultant is one of those books that is full of danger and suspense. The kind that keeps a reader on the edge of their seat until they have finished the last page. It is heart stopping action and mystery that makes one wonder what could happen next. It is definitely not one that I could have ever predicted. I had a hard time putting it down and wound up reading the whole book in one day.
The Consultant is getting a well deserved five plus stars from me. I will be anxiously waiting for the second book from the Jonathan Hunter Thriller series. Until then, I will have to pick up another T J O'Connor novel to fill the time.
I highly recommend The Consultant for readers who love to read well written and fabulous thrillers.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
May 29, 2018
This is a page turner for sure. Love the snarky Hunter. You will love and hate characters. Then change your mind. The plot had me emotionally up and down, which is a good thing. Very thought provoking with current issues but still kept it light to enjoy.
July 28, 2018
Fast and Furious Action
I received a free copy of "The Consultant" from Goodreads to read and review.
The Consultant" hits the ground running with action and seldom eases up.
The hero John Hunter (his nom- de - undercover used here for simplicity) has returned home to the US at the request of his brother, Kevin. The brothers have been estranged for a decade or more, ever since John decided to chuck a college degree and joined the Army, and later, the CIA. He arrives to meet his brother only to drive into an all-out combat zone. Bodies lay on the roadway, a pickup is on fire and someone is spraying the area with gunfire. All this in rural western Virginia, near the quaint and quiet town of Winchester.
With his brother dead, Hunter reverts to spy-ops mode to determine what goes on . He suspects a terror cell, headed by members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps secret killers is planning something. Worse, brother Kevin, a policeman himself appears to have gone over to the dark side.
That is the plot set up. From there on the action Sheldon lets up long enough for the reader to catch his breath, nor to see any holes in the plot, if any. It hardly matters, however, it is all frantic fun.
There is a lot to enjoy in " The Consultant" for any fan of the spy/special ops genre. The sinister engine for the terror-plotting is very much of our troubled times-more than that I will not hint . If the book was not quite in the Vince Flynn, Brad Thor and Matt Greaney level it did entertain most of the time. The scene location in Western Virginia rang was different and rang true in the sense that terrorist strikes would cause even more fear with the awareness that wholesale death might be delivered where the population saw last saw violent episodes in1865. Kevin's widowed wife, Noor, a refugee Iranian, intrigues the reader with a possibly hidden past. Is she a double agent, herself? And their adopted son, Sameh, is shifty and hostile. The many supporting characters are well done, often causing the reader as to whose side they are really supporting. Pretty good stuff.
One thing that became irritating, to me at least, was the the author relied just too often on his protagonist's wise-cracking remarks and thought-bubbles. They make Hunter/Mallory sound like a college kid who never did anything more serious or deadly than chug a couple of 32 oz. bottles of Bud Light at a blitz party. After all, he has been hunting and killing bad guys in The Middle East for ten years as a "consultant." While book is not one of serious , profound political thought, it is more than vapid tv buddy flick. The author can go higher , deeper and better.
Trigger warnings: lots of trigger- pulling, knife-slashing, fist-flying bloody violence. Language was clean, though, if that matters, and no sex.
Notes: my review could have been a star higher but for the " Aren't I so witty" remarks.
Sequels are promised; I doubt for me though.
I received a free copy of "The Consultant" from Goodreads to read and review.
The Consultant" hits the ground running with action and seldom eases up.
The hero John Hunter (his nom- de - undercover used here for simplicity) has returned home to the US at the request of his brother, Kevin. The brothers have been estranged for a decade or more, ever since John decided to chuck a college degree and joined the Army, and later, the CIA. He arrives to meet his brother only to drive into an all-out combat zone. Bodies lay on the roadway, a pickup is on fire and someone is spraying the area with gunfire. All this in rural western Virginia, near the quaint and quiet town of Winchester.
With his brother dead, Hunter reverts to spy-ops mode to determine what goes on . He suspects a terror cell, headed by members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps secret killers is planning something. Worse, brother Kevin, a policeman himself appears to have gone over to the dark side.
That is the plot set up. From there on the action Sheldon lets up long enough for the reader to catch his breath, nor to see any holes in the plot, if any. It hardly matters, however, it is all frantic fun.
There is a lot to enjoy in " The Consultant" for any fan of the spy/special ops genre. The sinister engine for the terror-plotting is very much of our troubled times-more than that I will not hint . If the book was not quite in the Vince Flynn, Brad Thor and Matt Greaney level it did entertain most of the time. The scene location in Western Virginia rang was different and rang true in the sense that terrorist strikes would cause even more fear with the awareness that wholesale death might be delivered where the population saw last saw violent episodes in1865. Kevin's widowed wife, Noor, a refugee Iranian, intrigues the reader with a possibly hidden past. Is she a double agent, herself? And their adopted son, Sameh, is shifty and hostile. The many supporting characters are well done, often causing the reader as to whose side they are really supporting. Pretty good stuff.
One thing that became irritating, to me at least, was the the author relied just too often on his protagonist's wise-cracking remarks and thought-bubbles. They make Hunter/Mallory sound like a college kid who never did anything more serious or deadly than chug a couple of 32 oz. bottles of Bud Light at a blitz party. After all, he has been hunting and killing bad guys in The Middle East for ten years as a "consultant." While book is not one of serious , profound political thought, it is more than vapid tv buddy flick. The author can go higher , deeper and better.
Trigger warnings: lots of trigger- pulling, knife-slashing, fist-flying bloody violence. Language was clean, though, if that matters, and no sex.
Notes: my review could have been a star higher but for the " Aren't I so witty" remarks.
Sequels are promised; I doubt for me though.
January 29, 2018
This book is fantastic. I highly recommend it.
Thank you Mr. O’Connor for introducing us to your character Jonathan Hunter.
The book is jam packed with action, weapons, F-bombs, good ol’ ass kicking, plenty of killing and full of great humor – what more can you ask for. You as the reader find yourself “LOL” courtesy of Jonathan Hunter’s wise-ass comments and his hilariously noted thoughts. The comments about the Six P’s and the ongoing mentions of his confiscated retirement account are priceless. The author takes you on a wild ride and has you constantly guessing as to the puppets versus who is actually pulling their strings.
Jonathan is out for revenge, he wants to find those responsible for Kevin’s murder. Kevin’s dying words to Jonathan are the clues ultimately leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse. Jonathan ultimately uncovers buried secrets and ghosts from the past all leading to a plot by a homegrown terrorist cell looking to unleash an evil far worse than 9/11. Is there a connection between Kevin’s murder and the terror operation known as Maya? To make matters worse, Jonathan finds himself in the crosshairs of the leader of the primary terrorist cell as well as an assassin for hire. He also finds himself among some other very colorful characters including a fellow whose eyeglasses are constantly in need of a good polishing, innocent refugees, double agents, traitors, corrupt officials and true masters of deception. In order to find and punish those responsible for killing Kevin and attempt to stop the coming Armageddon, Jonathan is going to need everything he has in his arsenal bag, but even that may not be enough. How does one stop hell on earth when you do not even know how many terror cells you are dealing with or what their intended targets are? This book is full of twists and turns, with danger lurking around every dark corner. Unsure of who is friend or foe, Jonathan’s latest assignment will by no means be a piece of cake, even with his unique skill set.
Attention “action” fans, read this book, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you very much to the publisher for providing me with a copy of the ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Mr. O’Connor for introducing us to your character Jonathan Hunter.
The book is jam packed with action, weapons, F-bombs, good ol’ ass kicking, plenty of killing and full of great humor – what more can you ask for. You as the reader find yourself “LOL” courtesy of Jonathan Hunter’s wise-ass comments and his hilariously noted thoughts. The comments about the Six P’s and the ongoing mentions of his confiscated retirement account are priceless. The author takes you on a wild ride and has you constantly guessing as to the puppets versus who is actually pulling their strings.
Jonathan is out for revenge, he wants to find those responsible for Kevin’s murder. Kevin’s dying words to Jonathan are the clues ultimately leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse. Jonathan ultimately uncovers buried secrets and ghosts from the past all leading to a plot by a homegrown terrorist cell looking to unleash an evil far worse than 9/11. Is there a connection between Kevin’s murder and the terror operation known as Maya? To make matters worse, Jonathan finds himself in the crosshairs of the leader of the primary terrorist cell as well as an assassin for hire. He also finds himself among some other very colorful characters including a fellow whose eyeglasses are constantly in need of a good polishing, innocent refugees, double agents, traitors, corrupt officials and true masters of deception. In order to find and punish those responsible for killing Kevin and attempt to stop the coming Armageddon, Jonathan is going to need everything he has in his arsenal bag, but even that may not be enough. How does one stop hell on earth when you do not even know how many terror cells you are dealing with or what their intended targets are? This book is full of twists and turns, with danger lurking around every dark corner. Unsure of who is friend or foe, Jonathan’s latest assignment will by no means be a piece of cake, even with his unique skill set.
Attention “action” fans, read this book, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you very much to the publisher for providing me with a copy of the ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2023
I have known the author, TJ O'Connor, for decades, so take this review with the appropriate grain of salt.
Jonathan Hunter is a, wink wink, consultant for the US government working in the Middle East doing dastardly things to dastardly people when he receives a letter from his estranged brother asking him to come home, there’s trouble. So he does, abandoning his assignment and earning the immediate ire of his CIA handler, Oscar LaRue, who is a combination of Q and that guy in Three Days of the Condor who misses the clarity, and heads to his old home near Winchester, VA. And immediately runs into murder and mayhem and snipers and terrorists and, wow, what the devil is going on?
You’re going to ask yourself that question quite a bit because all kinds of characters are going to come at you from all kinds of directions, and none of them is who they seem to be so don’t get attached to anyone because, five pages later, they’re the enemy. Or the good guys. And five pages later … well. If your head’s spinning throughout the story then you’re okay, that’s expected. Lots of shootings and things blowing up and this quickly becomes a Michael Bay movie with some of the most over-the-top action sequences since Miami Vice.
So, obviously, he had a lot of fun writing this and you’re going to have a lot of fun reading it. You are also going to, several times, go WTF? There are coincidences that stretch the credulity to the breaking point, instances and events that simply defy physics and common sense. So what? It’s a blast.
You should know that TJ knows what he’s talking about. When you encounter a method or technique in this novel that makes you go, 'wait a minute,' err on the side of legitimacy. Even though he allowed a couple of homophones to slip by that makes for some amusing scenes, like that gorilla attack on a military squad. And someone staying on someone’s heals. Must have been in the doctor’s office.
Ah, so what? It's a blast.
Jonathan Hunter is a, wink wink, consultant for the US government working in the Middle East doing dastardly things to dastardly people when he receives a letter from his estranged brother asking him to come home, there’s trouble. So he does, abandoning his assignment and earning the immediate ire of his CIA handler, Oscar LaRue, who is a combination of Q and that guy in Three Days of the Condor who misses the clarity, and heads to his old home near Winchester, VA. And immediately runs into murder and mayhem and snipers and terrorists and, wow, what the devil is going on?
You’re going to ask yourself that question quite a bit because all kinds of characters are going to come at you from all kinds of directions, and none of them is who they seem to be so don’t get attached to anyone because, five pages later, they’re the enemy. Or the good guys. And five pages later … well. If your head’s spinning throughout the story then you’re okay, that’s expected. Lots of shootings and things blowing up and this quickly becomes a Michael Bay movie with some of the most over-the-top action sequences since Miami Vice.
So, obviously, he had a lot of fun writing this and you’re going to have a lot of fun reading it. You are also going to, several times, go WTF? There are coincidences that stretch the credulity to the breaking point, instances and events that simply defy physics and common sense. So what? It’s a blast.
You should know that TJ knows what he’s talking about. When you encounter a method or technique in this novel that makes you go, 'wait a minute,' err on the side of legitimacy. Even though he allowed a couple of homophones to slip by that makes for some amusing scenes, like that gorilla attack on a military squad. And someone staying on someone’s heals. Must have been in the doctor’s office.
Ah, so what? It's a blast.
July 1, 2018
I enjoyed this thriller. It could have been taken out of today's headlines. The plot is complex, but then so is the planning of terrorists and the work of government agents. I trust O'Connor has done his research in describing the lengths agents go to capture terrorists and prevent their murderous deeds.
The characters are larger than life. There are rogue agents, double agents, people who are not who they seem. It was almost impossible to know who the good guys and the bad guys were until the very end. Hunter was a bit of an enigma for me. He's a “consultant” for the CIA and does their dirty work off the books. He can be a cool assassin yet he becomes emotional when he goes after the murderer of his estranged brother, a brother he's not seen or talked to for fifteen years. And Hunter makes dumb mistakes, like leaving his weapon in the car when he goes into a potentially dangerous situation. His character seemed inconsistent at times. He is a flawed hero and one I sort of hated to love.
O'Connor's writing style drew me into the action. I did not like that part of the narrative was from Hunter's point of view while other parts were from a universal viewpoint. I would have preferred a consistent point of view.
I recommend this novel to readers who like a plot that could very well be happening today. The suspense was nearly continuous. There is a twist in the terrorists' motivations near the end that still has me thinking about it. In the end, it makes sense and makes me wonder. I do hope there will be another thriller featuring Hunter. I'll be looking for it.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The characters are larger than life. There are rogue agents, double agents, people who are not who they seem. It was almost impossible to know who the good guys and the bad guys were until the very end. Hunter was a bit of an enigma for me. He's a “consultant” for the CIA and does their dirty work off the books. He can be a cool assassin yet he becomes emotional when he goes after the murderer of his estranged brother, a brother he's not seen or talked to for fifteen years. And Hunter makes dumb mistakes, like leaving his weapon in the car when he goes into a potentially dangerous situation. His character seemed inconsistent at times. He is a flawed hero and one I sort of hated to love.
O'Connor's writing style drew me into the action. I did not like that part of the narrative was from Hunter's point of view while other parts were from a universal viewpoint. I would have preferred a consistent point of view.
I recommend this novel to readers who like a plot that could very well be happening today. The suspense was nearly continuous. There is a twist in the terrorists' motivations near the end that still has me thinking about it. In the end, it makes sense and makes me wonder. I do hope there will be another thriller featuring Hunter. I'll be looking for it.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 21, 2019
You could call this a spy novel. But it’s more than that. It goes deeper. This is a book about fear, what it does to people, how it makes them act. How the wrong kind of people use it to their advantage.
As does TJ O’Connor. He teases us with the implications. He allows us to wonder if there is even the slightest chance our protagonist will survive. Or if the nation can avoid being pulled into war.
There are cascading acts of terror, enough complexity that we never know who to trust and a good guy who won’t mind putting a bullet in the head of the man who killed his brother.
“I would slay the dragon who’d laid waste to us all. I prayed it wouldn’t be someone I knew.”
The terrorists in “The Consultant” have a plan that will reveal itself slowly. And here’s the bad news: They’ve thought of everything.
O’Connor writes with punchy, fast-paced sophistication. There are splashes of humor and a savvy about the spy business that makes this story even more compelling.
The action is immediate. And there is a human story that carries us forward.
“With death, dying isn’t always the worst thing. It’s the funeral. The living must go on. Memories. Sadness. Good-bye. No matter how supportive everyone is, no matter their condolences, nothing helps. There’s just emptiness and loss. Someone is gone. Nothing changes that. You must make your way through the well-wishers, prayers, psalms, and the cemetery. Each step is heavy and difficult.
You cannot wait for it to end. Then, you hate it when it does.”
We love it when a protagonist makes a vow. it’s what drives him on and what takes us with him. In this case, it’s about revenge. Later, it will evolve to much more. And the stakes will be enormous.
As does TJ O’Connor. He teases us with the implications. He allows us to wonder if there is even the slightest chance our protagonist will survive. Or if the nation can avoid being pulled into war.
There are cascading acts of terror, enough complexity that we never know who to trust and a good guy who won’t mind putting a bullet in the head of the man who killed his brother.
“I would slay the dragon who’d laid waste to us all. I prayed it wouldn’t be someone I knew.”
The terrorists in “The Consultant” have a plan that will reveal itself slowly. And here’s the bad news: They’ve thought of everything.
O’Connor writes with punchy, fast-paced sophistication. There are splashes of humor and a savvy about the spy business that makes this story even more compelling.
The action is immediate. And there is a human story that carries us forward.
“With death, dying isn’t always the worst thing. It’s the funeral. The living must go on. Memories. Sadness. Good-bye. No matter how supportive everyone is, no matter their condolences, nothing helps. There’s just emptiness and loss. Someone is gone. Nothing changes that. You must make your way through the well-wishers, prayers, psalms, and the cemetery. Each step is heavy and difficult.
You cannot wait for it to end. Then, you hate it when it does.”
We love it when a protagonist makes a vow. it’s what drives him on and what takes us with him. In this case, it’s about revenge. Later, it will evolve to much more. And the stakes will be enormous.
May 27, 2018
The Consultant draws you in, with twists and turns till the very end. It leaves you questioning current events around the world, and within the United States. After reading the book you may find yourself wondering what news is real and what news articles are being altered each day to steer the future. Most of all, I finished this book ready to follow Jonathan Hunter and other "consultants" in their future exploits. The only thing wrong with "The Consultant", is that Mr. O'Connor's second,third, etc., books in this series are not yet on the shelf!
I'll caveat this review by saying that I am not a book critic, or for that matter a big reader. I read for fun, for distraction, and for escape. That said, "The Consultant" weaves a story of intrigue that while an easy fast-paced read, is far from light escapism. While not excessively graphic or gratuitously violent and appropriate for readers from teen through senior adult, the story introduces Jonathan Hunter as a fictional international problem solver stumbling into a plot of international terrorism which he is most qualified to resolve. The book may leave you wondering whether the plot could unfold in your own neighborhood! Once I got captivated by the first 30 pages, I could not put the book down.
An excellent read! Timely. Provocative at times. Uncomfortably within the realm of possibility in today's social and political climate. Starts out fast, and accelerates to the very end! Well done Mr. O'Connor! Jason Bourne like, but with Mr. O'Connor's own personal touch. And now to reread The Consultant to catch the subtleties, to fill time until Jonathan Hunter is again called upon to use his skills!
I'll caveat this review by saying that I am not a book critic, or for that matter a big reader. I read for fun, for distraction, and for escape. That said, "The Consultant" weaves a story of intrigue that while an easy fast-paced read, is far from light escapism. While not excessively graphic or gratuitously violent and appropriate for readers from teen through senior adult, the story introduces Jonathan Hunter as a fictional international problem solver stumbling into a plot of international terrorism which he is most qualified to resolve. The book may leave you wondering whether the plot could unfold in your own neighborhood! Once I got captivated by the first 30 pages, I could not put the book down.
An excellent read! Timely. Provocative at times. Uncomfortably within the realm of possibility in today's social and political climate. Starts out fast, and accelerates to the very end! Well done Mr. O'Connor! Jason Bourne like, but with Mr. O'Connor's own personal touch. And now to reread The Consultant to catch the subtleties, to fill time until Jonathan Hunter is again called upon to use his skills!
November 14, 2018
The Consultant combines realism with fast-paced fiction. I love a thriller that pulls me into a fictional storyline--with just enough realism to keep me engaged and a little disturbed by the possibilities. The author creates a very detailed, believable plot with twists, turns and suspense in every chapter--but, he does so with a story that could happen in our real world.
O'Connor creates characters readers will want to see again. Much like the storyline, the characters are believable and somewhat realistic as well. Our main character isn't the typical, political thriller hero--he is much more human. He makes mistakes, he shows emotions and becomes a character that readers will want to follow through future books. While there are many characters in this book, they all play a role in the novel--so readers should plan to keep track of the characters and the interactions as the plot plays out.
Would I recommend The Consultant by TJ O'Connor? Sometimes, a political thriller is written in a cumbersome, convoluted manner--with cold, robotic characters. That is not the case with The Consultant. I loved O'Connor's writing style. He kept me guessing, kept me believing and kept me very invested in the characters and the storyline. The plot is not simplistic or lighthearted. The novel does contain a great deal of darkness and violence--but, is well developed with detailed descriptions, great characters, and suspense. I enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author or publisher. All opinions are my own.
O'Connor creates characters readers will want to see again. Much like the storyline, the characters are believable and somewhat realistic as well. Our main character isn't the typical, political thriller hero--he is much more human. He makes mistakes, he shows emotions and becomes a character that readers will want to follow through future books. While there are many characters in this book, they all play a role in the novel--so readers should plan to keep track of the characters and the interactions as the plot plays out.
Would I recommend The Consultant by TJ O'Connor? Sometimes, a political thriller is written in a cumbersome, convoluted manner--with cold, robotic characters. That is not the case with The Consultant. I loved O'Connor's writing style. He kept me guessing, kept me believing and kept me very invested in the characters and the storyline. The plot is not simplistic or lighthearted. The novel does contain a great deal of darkness and violence--but, is well developed with detailed descriptions, great characters, and suspense. I enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author or publisher. All opinions are my own.
November 8, 2018
It's been a while since I've read a more serious murder/suspense/international intrigue novel, so was excited to snag a copy of The Consultant. It did not disappoint. What makes it so effective is that it brings the fear of terrorism into small town America. It is right in our own backyard.
The race begins right from the opening chapter. CIA consultant Jonathan Hunter, after receiving an unexpected letter from home, has slipped away from his post to visit his estranged brother. He lands in the middle of a confusing scene involving a sniper, his brother dying in his arms while whispering some important clues and a truck that is torched as the sniper flees the scene. What is going on?
A mix of characters move in and out of the storyline - a sister-in-law and adopted nephew he knew nothing about, government operatives, heavy handed local police officer, innocent refugees, terrorists who exploit them and an illusive, unknown person playing puppet master behind the scenes pulling the terrorist's strings called Khalifah. As hundreds of people perish during terrorist bombings, there is a hint of the biggest yet to come. Can Hunter unwind all the threads in time to avert the terrorist's biggest threat?
The pace in The Consultant is fast and furious with danger, physical abuse and death a constant. Not for the squeamish. If you love darker political thrillers then this is for you.
The race begins right from the opening chapter. CIA consultant Jonathan Hunter, after receiving an unexpected letter from home, has slipped away from his post to visit his estranged brother. He lands in the middle of a confusing scene involving a sniper, his brother dying in his arms while whispering some important clues and a truck that is torched as the sniper flees the scene. What is going on?
A mix of characters move in and out of the storyline - a sister-in-law and adopted nephew he knew nothing about, government operatives, heavy handed local police officer, innocent refugees, terrorists who exploit them and an illusive, unknown person playing puppet master behind the scenes pulling the terrorist's strings called Khalifah. As hundreds of people perish during terrorist bombings, there is a hint of the biggest yet to come. Can Hunter unwind all the threads in time to avert the terrorist's biggest threat?
The pace in The Consultant is fast and furious with danger, physical abuse and death a constant. Not for the squeamish. If you love darker political thrillers then this is for you.
November 8, 2018
Calling all fans of spy books. I used to pretend that I was the top agent for the FBI or CIA and sometimes I worked as a double agent. These types of books were my "jam". Sadly, as the years have passed, I found myself wandering away from these books as they did not intrigue me so much. Recently, I have found a hand full of authors and series that I really enjoy in this genre. This first book in this series from Mr. O'Connor is in my top three picks.
Instantly, I was a fan of this book and Mr. O'Connor within the first few pages of reading this book. Hunter is a great main lead character. Although, I was a fan of his mentor, Oscar as well. Oscar may be cool on the outside but he does have a "soft" spot for Hunter. Also, he still taught Hunter a few tricks. Hunter in a way was like Bryan Mills from the Taken movies made famous by Liam Neeson.
Yet, can we talk about all of the action that took place within these pages. It was nonstop. There was never a dull moment. Plus, it helped that the book had a strong and believable storyline. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. A recommended read for sure. The Consultant will have you on the edge of your seat packing a punch of high, intensity, action that will have you coming back for more!
Instantly, I was a fan of this book and Mr. O'Connor within the first few pages of reading this book. Hunter is a great main lead character. Although, I was a fan of his mentor, Oscar as well. Oscar may be cool on the outside but he does have a "soft" spot for Hunter. Also, he still taught Hunter a few tricks. Hunter in a way was like Bryan Mills from the Taken movies made famous by Liam Neeson.
Yet, can we talk about all of the action that took place within these pages. It was nonstop. There was never a dull moment. Plus, it helped that the book had a strong and believable storyline. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. A recommended read for sure. The Consultant will have you on the edge of your seat packing a punch of high, intensity, action that will have you coming back for more!
January 17, 2018
Can a man forgive his brother?
When rogue CIA agent goes on the lam to help his brother, a cop in a small town, Hunter embroils himself in horrifying terrorist attacks. Unfortunately, he is too late to help his brother, who dies in his arms after uttering a few strange words. He vows revenge for his brother and his family,
I enjoyed this book although it did get very complicated sometimes - who was working for whom and what exactly they were doing there. This just needed to be clarified and the story would have flowed beautifully.
Also, after the terror attacks which are on the scale of 911, it is very much downplayed when I thought it would have had a much bigger impact on the story.
Still, a good book and I will keep an eye out for the author and hopefully another book with Hunter as the main protagonist.
Shesat
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
When rogue CIA agent goes on the lam to help his brother, a cop in a small town, Hunter embroils himself in horrifying terrorist attacks. Unfortunately, he is too late to help his brother, who dies in his arms after uttering a few strange words. He vows revenge for his brother and his family,
I enjoyed this book although it did get very complicated sometimes - who was working for whom and what exactly they were doing there. This just needed to be clarified and the story would have flowed beautifully.
Also, after the terror attacks which are on the scale of 911, it is very much downplayed when I thought it would have had a much bigger impact on the story.
Still, a good book and I will keep an eye out for the author and hopefully another book with Hunter as the main protagonist.
Shesat
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
June 9, 2018
A very intriguing book with many twists and turns. The book is full of action and suspense and it definitely has a surprise ending!!! I enjoyed this book greatly and loved the little one-liners that Hunter would offer. I started reading Thursday night, (made it to page 39 before falling asleep) and then finished the book on Friday - I could not put it down! Very well written with the characters well developed, the imaginary so detailed I felt like I was there and being from the Shenandoah Valley, the usage of local establishments mentioned in the book. I am very interested in the Hunter #2 book to see how the characters evolve and what relationships, it any, are formed. This book would make a great book club discussion with questions about forgiveness, loyalty, secrets!!! So much more! HIGHLY recommend!!
November 16, 2018
Life is too short, come home before it's too late
Sometimes life is not fair. We might plan to come home but obstacles stop us from doing that and before you know it, life is too late. This book is so much enjoyable to read. I really loved this story. It is so suspense and makes your heart beats faster. Topics are kinda related to what our country, USA, is facing. The author did a phenomenal job entertained his reader.
Life is full of betrayal and sometimes it is near in our heart. You just need to know the truth. Decide who is playing and find out the real person who will always support you no matter what.
I love the codes that Kevin gave to his brother Hunter before his life stopped. It brings so much fun finding it out for yourself. You thought you find the culprit but the story has a twist. Buckled-up because you are in for a bumpy ride but smooth landing in the end.
Sometimes life is not fair. We might plan to come home but obstacles stop us from doing that and before you know it, life is too late. This book is so much enjoyable to read. I really loved this story. It is so suspense and makes your heart beats faster. Topics are kinda related to what our country, USA, is facing. The author did a phenomenal job entertained his reader.
Life is full of betrayal and sometimes it is near in our heart. You just need to know the truth. Decide who is playing and find out the real person who will always support you no matter what.
I love the codes that Kevin gave to his brother Hunter before his life stopped. It brings so much fun finding it out for yourself. You thought you find the culprit but the story has a twist. Buckled-up because you are in for a bumpy ride but smooth landing in the end.
January 12, 2019
The Dangerous Consultant
Jon Hunter is a complicated character. When he returns to his home town he drives right into gun fire. Before it's over his long lost brother dies in his arms. Then the real trouble begins.
While in the process of trying to determine who killed his brother Jon Hunter (Jon Hunter is not his real name) he finds out that his brother might be a dirty cop. His home town has a small section of a Middle Eastern community and there is trouble festering.
I enjoyed reading this story because of the action and the fact that I could not figure out who the good guys were various the bad ones. This story can actually happen in our country, so it's a reminder of how vigilant we should be.
I highly recommend reading this book. I enjoyed reading this book.
Jon Hunter is a complicated character. When he returns to his home town he drives right into gun fire. Before it's over his long lost brother dies in his arms. Then the real trouble begins.
While in the process of trying to determine who killed his brother Jon Hunter (Jon Hunter is not his real name) he finds out that his brother might be a dirty cop. His home town has a small section of a Middle Eastern community and there is trouble festering.
I enjoyed reading this story because of the action and the fact that I could not figure out who the good guys were various the bad ones. This story can actually happen in our country, so it's a reminder of how vigilant we should be.
I highly recommend reading this book. I enjoyed reading this book.
September 22, 2019
"The Consultant" is gripping, fast paced and intriguing. I enjoyed that the main character wasn't a superman; he was human! He made mistakes, he coped with the seriousness of terrorism by using a warped sense of humor. He second guessed his own decisions and endeavored to learn from his mistakes.
The action was compelling and in some cases much too real.
The situations are ripped from today's headlines and imagining these things taking place on American soil is very scary. Hoping that there are plenty of real life "Jon Hunters" in the field making sure these things don't really happen!
Overall, this book is an awesome page turner that leaves you wanting more at the end of every chapter. It constantly begs the question, "what happens next?". I didn't want to put it down, but somebody had to mow the lawn.....
5 Stars; highly recommend
The action was compelling and in some cases much too real.
The situations are ripped from today's headlines and imagining these things taking place on American soil is very scary. Hoping that there are plenty of real life "Jon Hunters" in the field making sure these things don't really happen!
Overall, this book is an awesome page turner that leaves you wanting more at the end of every chapter. It constantly begs the question, "what happens next?". I didn't want to put it down, but somebody had to mow the lawn.....
5 Stars; highly recommend
July 24, 2018
* I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own *
This is the story of Jonathan Hunter, a rogue CIA consultant who leaves his post in the middle east to go to his brother who has called for help, but when he gets to his brother he witnesses his murder with his brothers final words being “… Khalifah … Not Them … Maya.”
Now Hunter is on the hunt for his brothers killer leading him into a terrorist activity by Middle Eastern refugees and sparking a backlash across America.
You will find in this tory so much action with all the foreign agencies getting involved, and it will keep you on your toes with lots of twists and turns. Look forward to the next instalment by T J O’Connor.
This is the story of Jonathan Hunter, a rogue CIA consultant who leaves his post in the middle east to go to his brother who has called for help, but when he gets to his brother he witnesses his murder with his brothers final words being “… Khalifah … Not Them … Maya.”
Now Hunter is on the hunt for his brothers killer leading him into a terrorist activity by Middle Eastern refugees and sparking a backlash across America.
You will find in this tory so much action with all the foreign agencies getting involved, and it will keep you on your toes with lots of twists and turns. Look forward to the next instalment by T J O’Connor.
November 5, 2018
This was an amazing, twisted, plot thickening, edge of your seat, suspenseful read! Wow.
There was a lot of action and a lot of characters, but it wasn’t until half way through that I started trying to put things together. And let me tell you – in the end, I was a sliver right. Seriously. A sliver. Everything else blew me out of the water.
The book has bread crumbs from beginning to end that kept me engrossed. I hated putting the book down at night. I wanted to know the ins, the outs, the whos, the whats, the wheres. There were so many characters involved, to keep track of, that your mind started to play tricks on you and you developed theories and ideas.
This was by far one of the top suspense reads I have read in awhile. I highly recommend if you enjoy suspenseful reads.
There was a lot of action and a lot of characters, but it wasn’t until half way through that I started trying to put things together. And let me tell you – in the end, I was a sliver right. Seriously. A sliver. Everything else blew me out of the water.
The book has bread crumbs from beginning to end that kept me engrossed. I hated putting the book down at night. I wanted to know the ins, the outs, the whos, the whats, the wheres. There were so many characters involved, to keep track of, that your mind started to play tricks on you and you developed theories and ideas.
This was by far one of the top suspense reads I have read in awhile. I highly recommend if you enjoy suspenseful reads.
December 21, 2020
This spy thriller takes off at full speed and carries you through a maze of surprises. The action literally starts in the first sentence with gun fire and blazing vehicles. Lead character Jon Hunter is a very relatable “Regular guy” with doubts and smart mouth sarcasm that draw you in more than the machismo of some other flawless action heroes. Add to this a reservoir of CIA operative skills that match the best his opponents can offer and you have a character that you would follow anywhere.
The real world locations and landmarks, and very current “Bad guy” types and troubles make this tale an eye opening glimpse of what may be going on in our own backyard. O’Connor’s background lends a welcome touch of reality to a genre that can often be over- glamorized.
The real world locations and landmarks, and very current “Bad guy” types and troubles make this tale an eye opening glimpse of what may be going on in our own backyard. O’Connor’s background lends a welcome touch of reality to a genre that can often be over- glamorized.
July 23, 2018
This was a decent spy novel (not my first choice genre) by a new author. The story was complicated but not so much that I couldn’t follow it. Fortunately, the story took place in VA, MD, and DC (familiar locations, although the DC coroner is not located in Manassas), so I didn’t have a lot of foreign cities and countries to remember. The main character had a likable and amusing personality, causing me to chuckle from time to time. The author could have been writing about himself and his own experiences as a “consultant.” If you are a native of the DC area, you meet and get to know a lot of them.
April 17, 2023
I purchased "The Consultant" by Tj O'Connor last weekend when he was signing books at Barnes and Noble. HIs summary of the book is what led me to purchase the book, and I am glad I purchased the book that day. I finished the book in a week and would have finished it a lot sooner if I did not have to work. The book immediately grabs the reader making them want to read more. There is plenty of action and mystery throughout the novel, keeping the reader hooked to the end. If you are looking for a book with action, mystery, and crime; this is definitely the book to read. Not only was the story line grabbing, but the book was well written.
October 13, 2018
The Consultant is the first book in the Jonathan Hunter Thriller series by T.J. O'Connor. A mystery suspense thriller that hits the ground running with non-stop action. The perfect read for anyone who is a fan of spy/special ops genre. O'Connor has created a story with a mixture of foreign agencies from all groups of intelligence. The Consultant is a very well written story with realistic characters and action galore. The adrenaline just flows from one page to the next. You never know what lies beyond the next page lurking in the shadows.
January 11, 2019
The story was OK but certainly nothing groundbreaking. The protagonist, Jon Hunter Mallory, has to be one of the poorest excuses for an ex CIA operative, now consultant, I have ever run across. Constantly in self doubt, bile in his throat at every turn, worried about dying, getting beat up at every turn. Frankly he was quite pathetic. All the books characters where so thinly written it was impossible to get involved with them or to care about them. Quick read, thankfully, but not a series I would look forward to.
May 29, 2018
The Consultant is a thrill ride through the world of terrorism. It sucks you in from the beginning with well-rounded characters and fast-paced action. Tj keeps you in suspense as you follow Jonathan Hunter in the search for his brother's killer. This book has a perfect mix of action, humor, intellect, and a few soft-hearted moments. Hard to put down as it keeps you guessing until the very end. Cannot wait for more Jonathan Hunter adventures! Excellent read!
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