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Rex Dalton #3
Sideswiped
Rex and Digger are visiting the Taj Mahal when he nearly bumps into someone from his past. Josh Farley, a CRC agent, and with him a woman Rex doesn’t know.
Are they looking for Rex, on some other mission, or on holiday?
Rex doesn’t have a good feeling about it. Cops, spooks, soldiers, military analysts, and many others don’t believe in coincidence, and neither does he.
It is time for him and Digger to get out of India. Rex decides to take a trip to Thailand, where he is planning to undergo cosmetic surgery to change his looks to hide from the people in his past.
Thailand is known as ‘The Land of Smiles’ and Rex finds that it is an appropriate moniker, especially so when he meets his Thai language teacher, Sunstra. Her name means ‘girl with beautiful eyes’.
Right from the beginning there are good vibes between them and they become fast friends and before long there is a romance in the making. But then things seldom work out they way they are planned. Sunstra disappears when a tsunami devastates the southern part of the country where she is visiting her family.
Rex and Digger try to find her. But then her family receives a ransom demand. She is alive but she not going to remain alive for long if her father doesn’t sign the papers to sell his land.
Rex and Digger have to race against time to rescue her before she is killed, but Sunstra’s family is not very cooperative.
SIDESWIPED is a full-length novel, a nail-biting thriller by best-selling author JC Ryan. It is the forth book in the electrifying new Rex Dalton series.
Are they looking for Rex, on some other mission, or on holiday?
Rex doesn’t have a good feeling about it. Cops, spooks, soldiers, military analysts, and many others don’t believe in coincidence, and neither does he.
It is time for him and Digger to get out of India. Rex decides to take a trip to Thailand, where he is planning to undergo cosmetic surgery to change his looks to hide from the people in his past.
Thailand is known as ‘The Land of Smiles’ and Rex finds that it is an appropriate moniker, especially so when he meets his Thai language teacher, Sunstra. Her name means ‘girl with beautiful eyes’.
Right from the beginning there are good vibes between them and they become fast friends and before long there is a romance in the making. But then things seldom work out they way they are planned. Sunstra disappears when a tsunami devastates the southern part of the country where she is visiting her family.
Rex and Digger try to find her. But then her family receives a ransom demand. She is alive but she not going to remain alive for long if her father doesn’t sign the papers to sell his land.
Rex and Digger have to race against time to rescue her before she is killed, but Sunstra’s family is not very cooperative.
SIDESWIPED is a full-length novel, a nail-biting thriller by best-selling author JC Ryan. It is the forth book in the electrifying new Rex Dalton series.
- GenresThriller
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2018
938 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Ryan
48 books149 followersJ C Ryan writes spellbinding mystery suspense thrillers with an archaeological backdrop.
He has been a combat and intelligence officer in the military, practicing lawyer and information technology project manager.
He holds a military as well as a law degree and is married with two daughters and two dogs.
JC currently makes his home on the Gold Coast of Australia.
He has been a combat and intelligence officer in the military, practicing lawyer and information technology project manager.
He holds a military as well as a law degree and is married with two daughters and two dogs.
JC currently makes his home on the Gold Coast of Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 9, 2023
Digger steals the show again
Enjoyable, if tongue in cheek, James Bond-type character saves the maiden before he rides into the sunset. I enjoy the dog, who is the comic to the hero's straight man. The dog is the top banana, and knows it. A great series of 6 book, and probably 7, before the years end
Enjoyable, if tongue in cheek, James Bond-type character saves the maiden before he rides into the sunset. I enjoy the dog, who is the comic to the hero's straight man. The dog is the top banana, and knows it. A great series of 6 book, and probably 7, before the years end
January 13, 2019
The fourth book in the series, which eases us into the action of another fantastic Rex Dalton thriller, that sees Rex and Digger leaving India for Thailand after seeing an operative from his former life. Thai language teacher Sunstra, is beautiful and Rex is keen to learn the language and abit more about her but when she is kidnapped, for her fathers land, Rex and Digger must find her before its too late. This was a enjoyable read that takes us along another journey with a great bond between man and dog, and the author brings it all alive so well.J.C. Ryan
December 10, 2018
Sideswiped #4 - I absolute enjoy this series and this book fits in like a charm. Fast paced and intriguing, this interesting addition keeps the reader immersed in the story until the last page. Again, we met good and interesting characters and glimpses into another culture. The characters run the gamut from braggart fool to criminal mercenary to doctors and more. The vivid descriptions place the reader in the mix and flow. There's maybe a touch of romance, maybe not, but ask Digger his opinion about that. The emotions don't run rampant as they did in Unchained, but there's enough to make the story work. I contacted the author to review his books. 4*
Rex Dalton series:
No Doubt - I read The Fulcrum (#1) before I read this short story. I enjoyed the writing style of the beginning chapters and the presentation of the island's natives and tourists. Quite comical until the murder, then the style changed similar to The Fulcrum. There's a bit of maturity in the character and dialog missing in this short, but it's still an interesting and entertaining story. This is introduction to Rex and Digger's histories, as well as bits and bobs about Rex's purpose for being on the island. The Fulcrum actually did a great job with Rex and Digger, which makes this short unnecessary, but still a good read. 4*
The Fulcrum #1 - My first read by this author and I couldn't put the book down! Mesmerized by the writing style, the vivid descriptions and the storylines, I read without stopping. Fast paced, action packed and interesting on several facets. Rex is a good example of what many Americans used to be, the masses who made this country great. Now after the decades of the Dark State (read chapter 15 for clarification) at work molding the brainwashed and dumb downed younger American generations with Mickey Dees and smartphones, our future and security is at stake. This is not a political agenda on part of the author, but part of the description of what we're facing; the reasons Rex became driven. The truth of what we're actually facing with cartels, terrorists and the havoc and destruction caused by the corruption and ineptness of our government's screaming chimps. Oh, sorry, our politicians.
I thought our Founding Fathers voted English (by one vote over German) as our Country's language? A point that caused me concern was his blacking out and thinking he was rescuing his sister. Not sure he would have been allowed to continue, but I'm not in that world and maybe he has special talents that were in dire need. As for mental testing, as determined as he was, he probably had the ability to pass them. Of course there's clarification later concerning those tests. While the ending was not a cliffhanger, the job was accomplished, plus; the ending gives the opening to the next book of the series. Ludlum is my favorite author, but I've found another one that I look forward to reading more of his work. The only editing needed was Internet, somehow everyone thinks this proper noun and place is lower case. I found this book on authorsxp.com. 5*
The Power of Three #2 - I absolutely enjoy this author's books. If you're Ludlum and company fan, you will like Ryan, too. If you haven't read The Fulcrum, the first book, it isn't necessary since this book gives background from the first. But I recommend reading it anyway; it is a good foundation for the series. Well written, fast paced with intriguing and suspense filled storylines. The characters range from good to despicable, with many characters from the previous book. The emotions run the gamut. The terrible truth about America's governing leaders will dishearten many, but there's still hope the Dark State won't win completely. After all, not all Americans want donuts and circuses; the proof of that lies with the current elected president, instead of the increased circus clowns being elected. The relationship between Rex and Trigger develop, but at a great cost to both. Part of the cost brings Rex to make decisions about their future and leaves possibilities of multiple paths to be taken in their journeys. While not a cliffhanger, the story is complete, but the series does continue. There's an overview, which I appreciate knowing what a story is about before I read nowadays. I contacted the author to review his books and found this book on authorsxp.com. Minor editing needed. 5*
Unchained #3 - As good as all the other books were, this one tops them. Mr. Ryan has become one of my favorite (new) authors in my all time favorite genre. This is another well written and fast paced adventure. The intrigue and planning to make all come together is great. Everything is realistic and there's no "Hollywood poof" to make things work; the storylines have been planned and well thought out. The characters are developed as much as their roles need them to be. The main characters, of course, continue to grow in their roles as the storylines continue. The vivid and clear descriptions do not leave the reader confused or hanging, but involved with the happenings. The travels are interesting in themselves. Rex and Digger are getting better with their relationship; and Rex is gathering a family of friends to end his days alone. Both kept growing as the pages flew by. There are overviews on all the stories in this series, which I appreciate knowing about a story before I read it. I contacted the author to review his books and received this one through AXP. 5*
Rex Dalton series:
No Doubt - I read The Fulcrum (#1) before I read this short story. I enjoyed the writing style of the beginning chapters and the presentation of the island's natives and tourists. Quite comical until the murder, then the style changed similar to The Fulcrum. There's a bit of maturity in the character and dialog missing in this short, but it's still an interesting and entertaining story. This is introduction to Rex and Digger's histories, as well as bits and bobs about Rex's purpose for being on the island. The Fulcrum actually did a great job with Rex and Digger, which makes this short unnecessary, but still a good read. 4*
The Fulcrum #1 - My first read by this author and I couldn't put the book down! Mesmerized by the writing style, the vivid descriptions and the storylines, I read without stopping. Fast paced, action packed and interesting on several facets. Rex is a good example of what many Americans used to be, the masses who made this country great. Now after the decades of the Dark State (read chapter 15 for clarification) at work molding the brainwashed and dumb downed younger American generations with Mickey Dees and smartphones, our future and security is at stake. This is not a political agenda on part of the author, but part of the description of what we're facing; the reasons Rex became driven. The truth of what we're actually facing with cartels, terrorists and the havoc and destruction caused by the corruption and ineptness of our government's screaming chimps. Oh, sorry, our politicians.
I thought our Founding Fathers voted English (by one vote over German) as our Country's language? A point that caused me concern was his blacking out and thinking he was rescuing his sister. Not sure he would have been allowed to continue, but I'm not in that world and maybe he has special talents that were in dire need. As for mental testing, as determined as he was, he probably had the ability to pass them. Of course there's clarification later concerning those tests. While the ending was not a cliffhanger, the job was accomplished, plus; the ending gives the opening to the next book of the series. Ludlum is my favorite author, but I've found another one that I look forward to reading more of his work. The only editing needed was Internet, somehow everyone thinks this proper noun and place is lower case. I found this book on authorsxp.com. 5*
The Power of Three #2 - I absolutely enjoy this author's books. If you're Ludlum and company fan, you will like Ryan, too. If you haven't read The Fulcrum, the first book, it isn't necessary since this book gives background from the first. But I recommend reading it anyway; it is a good foundation for the series. Well written, fast paced with intriguing and suspense filled storylines. The characters range from good to despicable, with many characters from the previous book. The emotions run the gamut. The terrible truth about America's governing leaders will dishearten many, but there's still hope the Dark State won't win completely. After all, not all Americans want donuts and circuses; the proof of that lies with the current elected president, instead of the increased circus clowns being elected. The relationship between Rex and Trigger develop, but at a great cost to both. Part of the cost brings Rex to make decisions about their future and leaves possibilities of multiple paths to be taken in their journeys. While not a cliffhanger, the story is complete, but the series does continue. There's an overview, which I appreciate knowing what a story is about before I read nowadays. I contacted the author to review his books and found this book on authorsxp.com. Minor editing needed. 5*
Unchained #3 - As good as all the other books were, this one tops them. Mr. Ryan has become one of my favorite (new) authors in my all time favorite genre. This is another well written and fast paced adventure. The intrigue and planning to make all come together is great. Everything is realistic and there's no "Hollywood poof" to make things work; the storylines have been planned and well thought out. The characters are developed as much as their roles need them to be. The main characters, of course, continue to grow in their roles as the storylines continue. The vivid and clear descriptions do not leave the reader confused or hanging, but involved with the happenings. The travels are interesting in themselves. Rex and Digger are getting better with their relationship; and Rex is gathering a family of friends to end his days alone. Both kept growing as the pages flew by. There are overviews on all the stories in this series, which I appreciate knowing about a story before I read it. I contacted the author to review his books and received this one through AXP. 5*
February 3, 2019
“Sideswiped” is another winner for thriller author J.C. Ryan. This page-turner is book four of five in the Rex Dalton Series. What keeps me turning pages in this series is my wanting to keep on top and even feel part of the action. Although most exploits here may be believable, the smallest bits are far-fetched but still keep my interest aroused. Though “Sideswiped” is the fourth book in this series, I still feel compelled to do some fact checking on whether certain scenarios might be possible. I've discovered that Ryan uses facts to move his plots along realistically, rather than as extraneous page fillers.
Readers first met protagonist Rex Dalton as a garden-variety college graduate who looks forward to an ordinary-enough life with a government career and his long-time girlfriend as wife and mother of his children. Rather than read the series out-of-order as stand-alone-novels, readers may gain more pleasure by reading in sequence and enjoying Dalton’s character development. I received a review copy of “Sideswiped” from the author, and my review here is unbiased.
A random extremist act flat-out changes Dalton’s career and personal life plans to one of retribution. The desire for cups of coffee safely drew Dalton and his girlfriend away from the Spanish train station where a terrorist bloodbath massacred his waiting mom, dad, and siblings. Dalton begins a career of revenge, killing terrorists.
Ryan’s writing is looser here than in the first book. Dalton is also more open and relaxed. He pursues his interest in visiting historic locations and even takes time to begin thinking about romance. Dalton works with his military-trained dog “Digger,” bequeathed to him by a buddy in book one. Slowly, “Digger” begin to assume an emotional as well as working place in Dalton’s life. He spends enjoyable parts of his day with ‘Digger” who goes almost everywhere with Dalton. Dalton even “swears” that “Digger” can read his mind.
If Ryan’s books had not hooked me with Dalton’s quasi-military exploits, Dalton’s developing relationship with “Digger” would have. The bonding relationship between a military working dog (MWD) and its handler is stronger than that found among most human relationships. Ryan’s bringing this human-canine bonding in as a fundamental part of the series is at the heart of Dalton regaining his humanity. I become fascinated by reading about the developing relationship between Dalton and “Digger,” and Dalton’s exploits in this book, as well as the others, continue to fascinate me.
Action in “Sideswiped” is less pronounced than in Ryan’s preceding books. Dalton enjoys his time in India but precipitously leaves for Thailand after noticing a former dark ops colleague and a woman companion waiting to enter the Taj Mahal. What are the chances for this being a coincidence? Dalton figures the coincidence as near zero and speculates that someone back in the U.S. is still looking for him.
In Thailand, Dalton adds to his life as a tourist by learning the Thai language. He develops a relationship with Sunstra a female language instructor as she guides him through local restaurants and sights. Dalton begins plans for plastic surgery to lose his facial identity. Trouble for Dalton and “Digger” develops as a tsunami hits regional coastline where Sunstra’s parents have a home.
Ryan does a great job of pumping up the reader’s adrenaline as he describes Dalton’s and Digger’s actions during the Tsunami and afterward searches for survivors. Dalton rushes to rescue Sunstra and her parents but is too late to enter the tsunami area. They volunteer to be part of search parties.
Dalton catches up with Kraisee, one of Sunstra’s brothers, and finds her kidnapped. The ransom is that her parents sign over valuable land that they own or Sunstra will die. Dalton meets a second older brother Narong, a medical doctor but formerly a medic on a Thai Seal team, and the reception from him is glacial.
Each of these former military men, Dalton and Narong, wants to call the shots in rescuing Sunstra and apprehending her abductors. Dalton does not want to give up information about his former profession, so he takes the attitude that “if the brothers weren’t going to be of any help, he would do (the operation to rescue Sunstra) it on his own.” Dalton continues to try to change Narong’s rudeness and intrapersonal dynamics.
Dalton begins to work on what he knows best – long shots and painstaking attention to detail. He continues to placate Narong while working out rescue details. Ultimately, Dalton and “Digger” effect Sunstra’s rescue, manage to keep Narong placated, and the three round up the extortionist kidnappers.
Dalton, while still contemplating his love life, decides to forgo cosmetic surgery and makes plans to leave Bangkok and Thailand. He prepares for his last restaurant dinner with Sunstra believing he has some surprises for her. However, it is Sunstra that is full of surprises.
Readers first met protagonist Rex Dalton as a garden-variety college graduate who looks forward to an ordinary-enough life with a government career and his long-time girlfriend as wife and mother of his children. Rather than read the series out-of-order as stand-alone-novels, readers may gain more pleasure by reading in sequence and enjoying Dalton’s character development. I received a review copy of “Sideswiped” from the author, and my review here is unbiased.
A random extremist act flat-out changes Dalton’s career and personal life plans to one of retribution. The desire for cups of coffee safely drew Dalton and his girlfriend away from the Spanish train station where a terrorist bloodbath massacred his waiting mom, dad, and siblings. Dalton begins a career of revenge, killing terrorists.
Ryan’s writing is looser here than in the first book. Dalton is also more open and relaxed. He pursues his interest in visiting historic locations and even takes time to begin thinking about romance. Dalton works with his military-trained dog “Digger,” bequeathed to him by a buddy in book one. Slowly, “Digger” begin to assume an emotional as well as working place in Dalton’s life. He spends enjoyable parts of his day with ‘Digger” who goes almost everywhere with Dalton. Dalton even “swears” that “Digger” can read his mind.
If Ryan’s books had not hooked me with Dalton’s quasi-military exploits, Dalton’s developing relationship with “Digger” would have. The bonding relationship between a military working dog (MWD) and its handler is stronger than that found among most human relationships. Ryan’s bringing this human-canine bonding in as a fundamental part of the series is at the heart of Dalton regaining his humanity. I become fascinated by reading about the developing relationship between Dalton and “Digger,” and Dalton’s exploits in this book, as well as the others, continue to fascinate me.
Action in “Sideswiped” is less pronounced than in Ryan’s preceding books. Dalton enjoys his time in India but precipitously leaves for Thailand after noticing a former dark ops colleague and a woman companion waiting to enter the Taj Mahal. What are the chances for this being a coincidence? Dalton figures the coincidence as near zero and speculates that someone back in the U.S. is still looking for him.
In Thailand, Dalton adds to his life as a tourist by learning the Thai language. He develops a relationship with Sunstra a female language instructor as she guides him through local restaurants and sights. Dalton begins plans for plastic surgery to lose his facial identity. Trouble for Dalton and “Digger” develops as a tsunami hits regional coastline where Sunstra’s parents have a home.
Ryan does a great job of pumping up the reader’s adrenaline as he describes Dalton’s and Digger’s actions during the Tsunami and afterward searches for survivors. Dalton rushes to rescue Sunstra and her parents but is too late to enter the tsunami area. They volunteer to be part of search parties.
Dalton catches up with Kraisee, one of Sunstra’s brothers, and finds her kidnapped. The ransom is that her parents sign over valuable land that they own or Sunstra will die. Dalton meets a second older brother Narong, a medical doctor but formerly a medic on a Thai Seal team, and the reception from him is glacial.
Each of these former military men, Dalton and Narong, wants to call the shots in rescuing Sunstra and apprehending her abductors. Dalton does not want to give up information about his former profession, so he takes the attitude that “if the brothers weren’t going to be of any help, he would do (the operation to rescue Sunstra) it on his own.” Dalton continues to try to change Narong’s rudeness and intrapersonal dynamics.
Dalton begins to work on what he knows best – long shots and painstaking attention to detail. He continues to placate Narong while working out rescue details. Ultimately, Dalton and “Digger” effect Sunstra’s rescue, manage to keep Narong placated, and the three round up the extortionist kidnappers.
Dalton, while still contemplating his love life, decides to forgo cosmetic surgery and makes plans to leave Bangkok and Thailand. He prepares for his last restaurant dinner with Sunstra believing he has some surprises for her. However, it is Sunstra that is full of surprises.
November 23, 2019
This is book four in the Rex Dalton thriller series. Rex and his companion Digger have escaped from Afghanistan and the attempt to kill him. Unfortunately, all of his team and friends were killed and he was presumed dead, which he is putting to good use to get his revenge on some of those responsible. He has made his way to India with his dead friend’s highly trained dog Digger, getting used to a dog, although he is scared to death of dogs, as a promise to look after him was his friend’s last words. He doesn’t know who was the head of the plot to kill him and the others and so can’t trust his old boss.
His favourite topic is history and he is using his freedom from work requirements, to explore all the historical sites he has only ever dreamt about visiting in person. On a trip to the Taj Mahal he spots an operative he trained, accompanied by a female who doesn’t look like his romantic partner! They don’t spot him, but it leaves him thinking it is time to move on. Whoever is after him, if they do know he is alive, is a risk he can’t take. He now has to look further into whether he should get surgical work done to change his appearance, but with that comes lots of other issues.
He leaves India and travels to Thailand, finding he has to grease a few palms to get Digger through channels and also to find them both some accommodation that will take them both. He decides to continue with his sightseeing, but to also take advantage of his command of languages to immerse himself into learning Thai. As luck would have it, his teacher turns out to be a young woman called Sunstra, whom he is immediately drawn to. He can’t have a relationship with her while she is his teacher, but he finds a way around this by hiring her as a private tutor in the afternoons and getting her to show him local places of interest, whilst speaking Thai all the time.
A romance could be growing, once his classes are over, but so far, they have a good friendship. Digger however, seems to dislike any touching or getting close to each other, that is attempted, constantly coming between them. What he knows, that they don’t, is for Rex and Sunstra to discover. The day before Rex is due to travel to visit her and her family, a tsunami hits the coast and destroys the area around her family’s village. He and Digger volunteer to help with the search and rescue operation, hoping against all odds that she has survived. Word of a possible surviving relative, leads Rex to a brother.
His appearance, asking questions about Sunstra, is taken badly and he thus learns that something much worse has happened to her. It seems someone wants her father’s land, now found to be rich in mineral wealth, or they will kill her. Rex has to find those responsible and uses a trusted colleague, one of the women he rescued from the Saudi prince’s illegal harem, to pick up any IT threads she can find of those responsible. Rex and Digger will have to dig hard to save Sunstra, but her elder brother is hot-headed and wants to lead the rescue attempt.
Another fascinating tale of Rex and Digger, the antics they get up to and the fight they still have to find justice for their lost friends and fellow operatives. While he may not be working as an operative anymore, he still gets into some dangerous situations and the bond between him and Digger is getting better all the time. He is faced with human conflict but also severe weather conditions that are uncontrollable and can’t be planned for. Some links back to the very real and horrendous tsunami that hit a lot of similar areas, killing hundreds of thousands. A very poignant event occurring at the same time as the kidnaping of Sunstra and the threat she is under. I read this one straight through in one sitting, on going to bed, and didn’t sleep until I finished it! It doesn’t have to only contain his escapades as an operative, for it to be an exciting read. I can’t wait to catch up and read the next couple which are already available.
His favourite topic is history and he is using his freedom from work requirements, to explore all the historical sites he has only ever dreamt about visiting in person. On a trip to the Taj Mahal he spots an operative he trained, accompanied by a female who doesn’t look like his romantic partner! They don’t spot him, but it leaves him thinking it is time to move on. Whoever is after him, if they do know he is alive, is a risk he can’t take. He now has to look further into whether he should get surgical work done to change his appearance, but with that comes lots of other issues.
He leaves India and travels to Thailand, finding he has to grease a few palms to get Digger through channels and also to find them both some accommodation that will take them both. He decides to continue with his sightseeing, but to also take advantage of his command of languages to immerse himself into learning Thai. As luck would have it, his teacher turns out to be a young woman called Sunstra, whom he is immediately drawn to. He can’t have a relationship with her while she is his teacher, but he finds a way around this by hiring her as a private tutor in the afternoons and getting her to show him local places of interest, whilst speaking Thai all the time.
A romance could be growing, once his classes are over, but so far, they have a good friendship. Digger however, seems to dislike any touching or getting close to each other, that is attempted, constantly coming between them. What he knows, that they don’t, is for Rex and Sunstra to discover. The day before Rex is due to travel to visit her and her family, a tsunami hits the coast and destroys the area around her family’s village. He and Digger volunteer to help with the search and rescue operation, hoping against all odds that she has survived. Word of a possible surviving relative, leads Rex to a brother.
His appearance, asking questions about Sunstra, is taken badly and he thus learns that something much worse has happened to her. It seems someone wants her father’s land, now found to be rich in mineral wealth, or they will kill her. Rex has to find those responsible and uses a trusted colleague, one of the women he rescued from the Saudi prince’s illegal harem, to pick up any IT threads she can find of those responsible. Rex and Digger will have to dig hard to save Sunstra, but her elder brother is hot-headed and wants to lead the rescue attempt.
Another fascinating tale of Rex and Digger, the antics they get up to and the fight they still have to find justice for their lost friends and fellow operatives. While he may not be working as an operative anymore, he still gets into some dangerous situations and the bond between him and Digger is getting better all the time. He is faced with human conflict but also severe weather conditions that are uncontrollable and can’t be planned for. Some links back to the very real and horrendous tsunami that hit a lot of similar areas, killing hundreds of thousands. A very poignant event occurring at the same time as the kidnaping of Sunstra and the threat she is under. I read this one straight through in one sitting, on going to bed, and didn’t sleep until I finished it! It doesn’t have to only contain his escapades as an operative, for it to be an exciting read. I can’t wait to catch up and read the next couple which are already available.
November 2, 2021
Sideswiped, Book 4 in JC Ryans’s Rex Dalton Thriller Series picks up where Unchained left us wanting to know lay ahead for Rex and Digger. Those of you who have been following my reviews of the books in this series already know that I recommend reading these novels in the order that they were written, and you will want to if you have become a Rex Dalton fan. Still, you can read them in any order and enjoy them. Each story comes to a satisfying climax. JC Ryan is a master of the backstory and weaves enough of what has taken place in earlier volumes to bring the reader up to speed, so the reader understands what has led up to Rex’s current situation.
Like most readers, I love a character that I can identify with and I have no problem identifying with Rex Dalton. Like Rex, I never went looking for trouble, but trouble always seemed to find me. Like Rex, although I never went looking for it, I never ran from it, and, like Rex, I always finished it. With each of Rex’s adventures, I relive adventures I had back in the day when I worked for one of Uncle Sam’s alphabet soup agencies. One reason that’s so is because JC Ryan does his homework and gets it all—tradecraft, weapons, martial arts, etc.-- right.
In Sideswiped, we find Rex and Digger in Thailand. All he wants to do is learn the language, visit historical sites, and investigate what it offers in the way of plastic surgery. His plans go astray when his Thai language teacher, a beautiful Thai lady, gets kidnapped by corrupt government officials, who hold her ransom in order to get her parents to sign their land over to them. They had become friends, so Rex and Digger set out to find her and rescue her. Can they pull it off? How does it all end for them? Read the book. Like all Rex Dalton Thrillers, this one is a non-stop, roller coaster thrill ride; a page-burner that will keep you glued to the edge of your seat.
Like most readers, I love a character that I can identify with and I have no problem identifying with Rex Dalton. Like Rex, I never went looking for trouble, but trouble always seemed to find me. Like Rex, although I never went looking for it, I never ran from it, and, like Rex, I always finished it. With each of Rex’s adventures, I relive adventures I had back in the day when I worked for one of Uncle Sam’s alphabet soup agencies. One reason that’s so is because JC Ryan does his homework and gets it all—tradecraft, weapons, martial arts, etc.-- right.
In Sideswiped, we find Rex and Digger in Thailand. All he wants to do is learn the language, visit historical sites, and investigate what it offers in the way of plastic surgery. His plans go astray when his Thai language teacher, a beautiful Thai lady, gets kidnapped by corrupt government officials, who hold her ransom in order to get her parents to sign their land over to them. They had become friends, so Rex and Digger set out to find her and rescue her. Can they pull it off? How does it all end for them? Read the book. Like all Rex Dalton Thrillers, this one is a non-stop, roller coaster thrill ride; a page-burner that will keep you glued to the edge of your seat.
December 13, 2018
I enjoyed this, continuing Rex Dalton's travels keeping under the radar of the authorities back in the USA and anyone else who might want to find him, Rex and Digger travel from India to Thailand after a close call near the Taj Mahal with a familiar face. But can he stay hidden? Once he lands in Thailand will he be able to relax and enjoy the historic places as planned? Will he heck! After making friends with his Thai language teacher he gets drawn into the dark murky side of Thai politics when she is kidnapped in an attempt to force her parents to part with their land. As you might expect, Rex isn't taking this lying down, so he and his sidekick pooch Digger snap into action to find her and put a stop to the bad guys. As ever with JC Ryan's books, this is a fast-paced exciting story that fairly whizzes along. I can't wait to read the next instalment of Rex's adventures.
This was an advance reading copy supplied for free by the author for an honest review.
This was an advance reading copy supplied for free by the author for an honest review.
December 2, 2018
Rex Dalton and furry friend/partner Digger are back in a new thriller. Rex and Digger have left India for Thailand after almost running into a CRC agent Rex trained. Not sure if the agent is looking for him, Rex decides to leave the Taj Mahal. Since his "death" Rex has stayed off the radar and he plans on keeping it that way. In Thailand Rex meets beautiful Sunstra, a language teacher. Although trying to keep off the radar, as is par for the course, Rex and Digger end up in the thick of things when Sunstra disappears while visiting her parents, and in the midst of a tsunami! Surprise, surprise, Sunstra has been kidnapped; will Rex and Digger be able to not only find Sunstra, but also rescue her? And can they do it without anyone finding out who they are, or who they were? Another spine tingling thriller with the many twists and turns we've come to expect from author JC Ryan.
January 10, 2019
5 Stars for J. C. Ryan's Sideswiped (A Rex Dalton Thriller #4), given to me and I voluntarily am posting an honest review. This is the first book in this series I have read and I am delighted. Very imaginative and humorously written, Rex Dalton, a talented operative and his amazing dog Digger, who is a super intelligent highly trained operative himself, spend time in Thailand, "The Land of Smiles" where he begins taking classes in the Thai language. He is smitten by his beautiful teacher, Sunstra. Fearing that she has been swept away in a terrible tsunami, the two go in search only to learn that Sunstra has been kidnapped. The two must, of course, find and free her from her captors and save the family land from corrupt government officials who are responsible. I enjoyed this book so much that I will shortly read the earlier books in the series and more to come.
November 22, 2019
Rex and Digger have another great adventure as Rex heads to Thailand to investigate cosmetic surgery to mask his identity. Actions starts immediately as Rex considers a romantic relationship with his language instructor. They participate in a search for victims and survivors of a tsunami, and discover the love interest has been kidnaped by corrupt officials who want her families land. Rex has to do battle with one of her brothers to be included in the attempt to rescue her. In a side plot, his former agency has agents looking for him, and finding a traitor from the agency. The human interactions are very realistic and entertaining. The action is incredible as only Rex can be. Once again the real hero is Digger, who appears to know more than any of the humans. Although this is the fourth in the series, it is as good or better than the previous episodes.
August 9, 2020
As with the other books before it in this series, this one kept me awake all night. I just couldn't put it down. The way JC Ryan describes the people and environment makes it easy to imagine yourself there. You can't help but get immersed in the plot.
The bond between Rex and Digger is phenomenal but very realistic and clearly demonstrates the healing effect that animals can have on humans that have been through trauma. It also adds a lot of humor to a story that could otherwise have been a bit too serious. Although it is already book 4 in the series and one expects it to start getting boring, it absolutely does not. The fast pace and intricate plot keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the book.
The bond between Rex and Digger is phenomenal but very realistic and clearly demonstrates the healing effect that animals can have on humans that have been through trauma. It also adds a lot of humor to a story that could otherwise have been a bit too serious. Although it is already book 4 in the series and one expects it to start getting boring, it absolutely does not. The fast pace and intricate plot keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the book.
May 19, 2023
Serious, Funny, Dangerous, and Thrilling All in One!
Rex and Digger stories are always a pleasure to read and the action is a great bonus. How do you react when you get to know someone who checks all the boxes of what you want in a mate? And how do you respond when that person is kidnapped to extort her family? Rex and Digger find themselves in Thailand in just such a scenario. In order to protect himself and those whom Rex meets, secrecy about Rex's ID and abilities and history must be maintained. Rex mixes learning a language, courting a beautiful woman and making short work of murderous kidnappers all together in one immensely interesting story. You'll enjoy this book even if you just consider Digger's antics.
Rex and Digger stories are always a pleasure to read and the action is a great bonus. How do you react when you get to know someone who checks all the boxes of what you want in a mate? And how do you respond when that person is kidnapped to extort her family? Rex and Digger find themselves in Thailand in just such a scenario. In order to protect himself and those whom Rex meets, secrecy about Rex's ID and abilities and history must be maintained. Rex mixes learning a language, courting a beautiful woman and making short work of murderous kidnappers all together in one immensely interesting story. You'll enjoy this book even if you just consider Digger's antics.
February 7, 2019
When Rex nearly bumps into someone from his former life, it's time for Rex and Digger to get out of India. Rex goes to Thailand, where he plans to undergo cosmetic surgery to change his looks and hide from people in his past.
This is number 4 in the series of Rex Dalton and furry friend/partner Digger.
This is an excellent action, suspense/thriller filled with some tragedy and romance this time.
There are extremely well developed characters and the plot is fast paced that keeps you hanging in there til the very last page.
This is an excellent addition to the series and you won't be disappointed.
This is a voluntary review of a copy of this book from AXP.
This is number 4 in the series of Rex Dalton and furry friend/partner Digger.
This is an excellent action, suspense/thriller filled with some tragedy and romance this time.
There are extremely well developed characters and the plot is fast paced that keeps you hanging in there til the very last page.
This is an excellent addition to the series and you won't be disappointed.
This is a voluntary review of a copy of this book from AXP.
January 27, 2019
This is an excellent and awesome story. It entails a lot of tragedy and and a bit of romance. It’s all wrapped up in a black ops agent. He has lost his whole family to a bomb blast. He has been betrayed by his own agency. Yet he continues to search for clues. He meets an amazing young lady and asks her to help him learn the language, customs, and history of the country where his is hiding. He helps those who need his help, even some that don’t really want it. His dog, Digger, is his constant pal and partner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I highly recommend it.
January 29, 2019
This book by JC Ryan in the continuing Rex Dalton series is one of quiet reflection interrupted by extreme action and adventure. It is also a great story about a super-smart dog and his partner as they try to navigate the world while staying out of the public eye in order to stay alive. And, last but not least, it is a slow developing safe love story. Not having read any prior Dalton books, I am now, more than ever, interested in how he became what he is and what exactly he did as a secret assassin. This is a voluntary review of a copy of this book from AXP.
October 8, 2019
I came to this novel having read the first three in the series. While a good story in its own right, this one was to me less impressive than those.
It could be the setting in Thailand, the surrounding cast, or the lack of CRC involvement (What’s the status of Josh and Marissa’s search?), but this story fell flat, relative to the prior three in the series.
In addition, there seemed to be a few more editing errors (typos, syntax, etc.) than prior books. It almost seems they rushed to get this one out, so it got shortchanged.
I’m trying the next in the series but I don’t have high hopes.
It could be the setting in Thailand, the surrounding cast, or the lack of CRC involvement (What’s the status of Josh and Marissa’s search?), but this story fell flat, relative to the prior three in the series.
In addition, there seemed to be a few more editing errors (typos, syntax, etc.) than prior books. It almost seems they rushed to get this one out, so it got shortchanged.
I’m trying the next in the series but I don’t have high hopes.
June 24, 2020
Another great story.
Made more interesting for me as I live in Thailand and could relate to this novel. Rex came to Bangkok for history and possibly facial reconstruction. He meets this girl at language school and a form of relationship ensues. Then she disappears so Rex and Digger are back doing what they do best.
Meanwhile in the background Rex's old boss is still searching for him after the Afghanistan incident and still not sure if he is alive or dead. The saga continues and I will be there!
Made more interesting for me as I live in Thailand and could relate to this novel. Rex came to Bangkok for history and possibly facial reconstruction. He meets this girl at language school and a form of relationship ensues. Then she disappears so Rex and Digger are back doing what they do best.
Meanwhile in the background Rex's old boss is still searching for him after the Afghanistan incident and still not sure if he is alive or dead. The saga continues and I will be there!
January 8, 2025
I wish I could do a four and a half.. I like the fact that there's action. I like the fact also that the good guy wins. I find it river for freshing that there is no sex in the store real but it is illuding to and it's also nice to have people who are.
A little too good to be true s r heroes. The book's start in the sound law like the Travis. McGee stories threatened by John d mcdonnel. In that Re
x has a romantic interest it's different and every story. Alarm for number five in the story to beginning to be a little repetitive
A little too good to be true s r heroes. The book's start in the sound law like the Travis. McGee stories threatened by John d mcdonnel. In that Re
x has a romantic interest it's different and every story. Alarm for number five in the story to beginning to be a little repetitive
December 10, 2019
As the other books of the Rex Dalton series this is also a very interesting and fast paced story. Shares a lot of Thailand culture, food and way of living as well as describes very exotic places. The story is well written and although there are previous books in this series, if you haven´t read them, its ok as when there is mention of previous situations they are fully explained. JC Ryan is a master with words as the text is fluid and fast paced. Looking forward to read the next book!
October 22, 2022
Fantastic and Digger is very well represented in the storyline.
If you have read other Rex Dalton books, this is as good as it gets. Full of action and suspense from page one to the end. What really got me to love this book is as a dog lover, Digger was a major character brought to life and used appropriately in the story line. It got to the point your asking yourself what is Digger upto next,
If you have read other Rex Dalton books, this is as good as it gets. Full of action and suspense from page one to the end. What really got me to love this book is as a dog lover, Digger was a major character brought to life and used appropriately in the story line. It got to the point your asking yourself what is Digger upto next,
December 28, 2022
Spannend zu lesen
Ich habe dieses Buch gerne gelesen, weil es irgendwie zwischen Action, Reisebericht, Selbstfindung und realistische Liebesgeschichte hin und her geht. Es passt alles gut zusammen. Wenn man selber auch in diesen Regionen gewesen ist, kommen Erinnerung hoch und man fühlt sich wie einem Film.
Es ist vielleicht nicht soviel Dramatik und Aktion wie in den Büchern vorher und trotzdem war es nicht langweilig.
Ich habe dieses Buch gerne gelesen, weil es irgendwie zwischen Action, Reisebericht, Selbstfindung und realistische Liebesgeschichte hin und her geht. Es passt alles gut zusammen. Wenn man selber auch in diesen Regionen gewesen ist, kommen Erinnerung hoch und man fühlt sich wie einem Film.
Es ist vielleicht nicht soviel Dramatik und Aktion wie in den Büchern vorher und trotzdem war es nicht langweilig.
January 19, 2023
Page turner
I really enjoyed Sideswiped. It's the first Rex Dalton book, that I have read. There were enough comments about previous adventures to enhance Rex's skills and reputation. Ryan used descriptive phrases, conversations and inner thoughts to skillfully develop the characters you hope to read more about. And being a dog lover, I became especially fond of Digger. A very entertaining read.
I really enjoyed Sideswiped. It's the first Rex Dalton book, that I have read. There were enough comments about previous adventures to enhance Rex's skills and reputation. Ryan used descriptive phrases, conversations and inner thoughts to skillfully develop the characters you hope to read more about. And being a dog lover, I became especially fond of Digger. A very entertaining read.
May 8, 2023
This is my second book in this series and they’re both fun reads. However; there are so many authors writing similar stories of a past super under cover, sniper, and super combat fighter that I am getting tired of them. This author has added interesting travel through many countries with lots of interesting information about these places. I like the author’s style and nice main people. If your heavy into these type stories you will like this series.
January 3, 2025
A terrific story and series
It's been an interesting and exciting experience with Rex and Digger on their new adventures, but it seems as though Rex, as well as Digger, are both getting that itch to get back to hunting down the bad guys and saving lives of the good people. It's going to be an intriguing time seeing how he's supposed to be dead! Lol!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and author.
It's been an interesting and exciting experience with Rex and Digger on their new adventures, but it seems as though Rex, as well as Digger, are both getting that itch to get back to hunting down the bad guys and saving lives of the good people. It's going to be an intriguing time seeing how he's supposed to be dead! Lol!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and author.
February 19, 2019
MOS More of the same
Another great story of a hero who is more than human. This installment, like the last, shows the soft side of a very solid man. The tension is created from the reader's desire for Rex to latch onto what is obviously the love of his life. But, the legend must go on. No solace for the fighter.
Another great story of a hero who is more than human. This installment, like the last, shows the soft side of a very solid man. The tension is created from the reader's desire for Rex to latch onto what is obviously the love of his life. But, the legend must go on. No solace for the fighter.
February 25, 2019
After reading the first four books I'm still waiting for a conclusion to book 1. Book four did have a partial conclusion but frankly it was unsatisfactory. Dalton and Digger are good but I like to have conclusions when I read a book and am not a fan of having to buy who knows how many more books to get an ending.
January 2, 2020
ANOTHER AWESOME READ!!
First of all....I am definitely hooked on JC Ryan's books!!
Rex and Digger land in Thailand and Rex decides to take a class and learn to speak Thai. There he meets his teacher Sunstra. As usual, Rex and Digger, wind up in the middle of a problem. An EPIC story, as Rex and Digger get involved in the bad things going on.
A MUST READ!!!
First of all....I am definitely hooked on JC Ryan's books!!
Rex and Digger land in Thailand and Rex decides to take a class and learn to speak Thai. There he meets his teacher Sunstra. As usual, Rex and Digger, wind up in the middle of a problem. An EPIC story, as Rex and Digger get involved in the bad things going on.
A MUST READ!!!
March 16, 2020
Sideswiped
Rex and Digger do Thailand. Wanting a change of scenery and continuing education on with his love of history, Rex and Digger enter a world somewhat modern and still very ancient. In this case the girl he has to rescue almost makes him want to settle down. Tut, tut! Not yet...
Rex and Digger do Thailand. Wanting a change of scenery and continuing education on with his love of history, Rex and Digger enter a world somewhat modern and still very ancient. In this case the girl he has to rescue almost makes him want to settle down. Tut, tut! Not yet...
May 11, 2020
Another great story of the adventures of Rex
The author has written another action packed and intrigue story of Rex’s ability to help a friend that finds herself in a dangerous and life threatening situation. Very entertaining story that is sure to keep you entertained and guessing.
The author has written another action packed and intrigue story of Rex’s ability to help a friend that finds herself in a dangerous and life threatening situation. Very entertaining story that is sure to keep you entertained and guessing.
January 5, 2023
A new lesson
Dalton has travelled to Thailand to get plastic surgery once he realizes that 2 members of CRC are searching for him. While learning Thai he realizes that he likes the family atmosphere that his beautiful teacher is introducing him to. Digger becomes jealous of the relationship, or is he? ENJOY!
Dalton has travelled to Thailand to get plastic surgery once he realizes that 2 members of CRC are searching for him. While learning Thai he realizes that he likes the family atmosphere that his beautiful teacher is introducing him to. Digger becomes jealous of the relationship, or is he? ENJOY!
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