What do you think?
Rate this book
Sean O'Brien #9
Dragonfly: A Sean O'Brien Novel
Sean O’Brien knows that his close friend, Dave Collins, isn’t a man who asks for favors. After three decades as a CIA officer, Collins learned self-reliance from the best school in the world — the streets. However, after five years out of the agency, he stops looking over his shoulder.
And then the assassinations begin.
One by one. Five of the CIA’s best former officers. Dave Collins’ old colleagues. Local police can’t protect retired CIA officers from ghosts of their past.
Dave’s life is on the line, and they are coming for him. Ghosts don’t leave tracks. They leave bodies. But to get close enough to kill Collins, they’ll have to get through one man who also learned survival from the streets and combat — Sean O’Brien. Dave Collins has been there for O’Brien.
And now it’s time to return the favor.
And then the assassinations begin.
One by one. Five of the CIA’s best former officers. Dave Collins’ old colleagues. Local police can’t protect retired CIA officers from ghosts of their past.
Dave’s life is on the line, and they are coming for him. Ghosts don’t leave tracks. They leave bodies. But to get close enough to kill Collins, they’ll have to get through one man who also learned survival from the streets and combat — Sean O’Brien. Dave Collins has been there for O’Brien.
And now it’s time to return the favor.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2019
102 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Tom Lowe
27 books241 followersTom Lowe's latest novel is THE ALIBI. It's the 18th book in the Sean O'Brien series. The mystery-thriller novels are published in the following order: A FALSE DAWN, THE 24th LETTER, THE BUTTERFLY FOREST, THE BLACK BULLET, BLOOD OF CAIN, BLACK RIVER, CEMETERY ROAD, A MURDER OF CROWS, DRAGONFLY, THE ORCHID KEEPER, MERMAID, FLASH OF GOLD, INVISIBLE, THE WHITE DRAGON, THE FOUNTAIN, JUSTICE, GYPSY TEARS, and THE ALIBI. The Sean O'Brien books can be read in any order.
The Elizabeth Monroe novels are psychological thrillers. There are three books, including WRATH, THE CONFESSION. and ALTERED STATE.
The Paul Marcus books are international thrillers. There are three novels in the series. They are: DESTINY, THE JEFFERSON PROPHECY, and THE POPPY SCORE.
Tom has written two novels about love lost and found. They are: MIDNIGHT'S WHISPERER and THE PAINTER. MIDNIGHT'S WHISPERER won the coveted 2021 Spur Award from the Western Writers of America.
Tom is an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker. As he writes his books, Tom draws from his travels around the world and his background as a print and broadcast journalist. Tom is a sailor and SCUBA diver. He lives with his wife, Keri, in Florida.
To subscribe to Tom Lowe's newsletter for new release information, updates and more, please visit Tom's website, tomlowebooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 25, 2019
finished this one yesterday the 24th of november 2019 good read four stars really liked it kindle owned and i read this one out of sequence read that one that follows this one before taking this one on...don't think it mattered, too much, in the one that follows there aren't a lot of giveaways. and...dunno if it was in this one, maybe...but apparently there is a kind of tree...a banyan, if i have that right...story has one maybe on an island in this story, mainland florida in another...thought that the tree is not native to florida, there is one located fort meyers home of...thomas edison i think, if i remember right, could be henry ford, they had homes there neighbors, and i thought the guide said the tree was a gift...from india? memory...incredible tree, monkeys must love it.
July 19, 2020
This is the first Tom Lowe/Sean O’Brien book that didn’t deliver right from the start.
For one thing, the terrorist plotline (and all the variations thereof, like the one here) is getting shopworn, having been done and done and done to the point where it has become passé.
For another, Lowe also uses a very omniscient viewpoint throughout the book, jumping from one character’s head to another’s in the middle of many scenes. I don’t recall him doing that in earlier books.
Also, randomly inserted chapters in minor characters’ POV – including one ‘starring’ two characters who are only there to die – break up the flow of the story.
And every woman has hair that requires regular tucking of a lock or tress behind an ear.
Another sore point: I have a friend who calls an info dump ‘As you know, Bob…’ dialog This book is loaded with ‘As you know, Bob…’ dialog (including one where a character actually says, “…as you know,…” then tells the other character things he would know about the FBI, since both work for the bureau!). And every one of them is either a rehash of previously revealed information or the kind of information even the most casual mystery reader already knows. Could Lowe have held his readers in such low regard that he felt he had to explain everything to them? Or was he being paid by the word and wanted to up his income. Either way, these exchanges are some of the dullest writing ever.
Having said that, however, the last 100 pages of this book were terrific – lots of action, lots of tension. They had me wishing I could stay home from church to finish the book sooner.
So, I’ll be back for more Sean O’Brien books.
For one thing, the terrorist plotline (and all the variations thereof, like the one here) is getting shopworn, having been done and done and done to the point where it has become passé.
For another, Lowe also uses a very omniscient viewpoint throughout the book, jumping from one character’s head to another’s in the middle of many scenes. I don’t recall him doing that in earlier books.
Also, randomly inserted chapters in minor characters’ POV – including one ‘starring’ two characters who are only there to die – break up the flow of the story.
And every woman has hair that requires regular tucking of a lock or tress behind an ear.
Another sore point: I have a friend who calls an info dump ‘As you know, Bob…’ dialog This book is loaded with ‘As you know, Bob…’ dialog (including one where a character actually says, “…as you know,…” then tells the other character things he would know about the FBI, since both work for the bureau!). And every one of them is either a rehash of previously revealed information or the kind of information even the most casual mystery reader already knows. Could Lowe have held his readers in such low regard that he felt he had to explain everything to them? Or was he being paid by the word and wanted to up his income. Either way, these exchanges are some of the dullest writing ever.
Having said that, however, the last 100 pages of this book were terrific – lots of action, lots of tension. They had me wishing I could stay home from church to finish the book sooner.
So, I’ll be back for more Sean O’Brien books.
May 30, 2019
I always look forward to a Sean O'Brien novel, and with author Tom Lowe venturing into other series novels this one was a while in coming. Lowe is a good writer and there is plenty of action and a few surprises. Lowe also does a great job with the cast of characters that inhabit Ponce marina, particularly Max, a little dog with a lot of personality.
A group of retired CIA agents that includes marina resident Dave Collins is being assassinated one by one. O'Brien and Wynona Osceola (from Murder of Crows) help Dave to try and track down and catch the people behind the apparent vendetta.
Minuses are few. The dialog ventures into being wordy, slowing the pace of the book, and much of it is characters talking about how amazing Sean is. Some of the plot line stretches the limits of reality, though less than books from other authors I could name. And there is still an editing issue, with numerous grammatical and spelling mistakes that truthfully don't get in the way of the story line.
Recommended, especially for a beach read and for fans of Travis McGee.
A group of retired CIA agents that includes marina resident Dave Collins is being assassinated one by one. O'Brien and Wynona Osceola (from Murder of Crows) help Dave to try and track down and catch the people behind the apparent vendetta.
Minuses are few. The dialog ventures into being wordy, slowing the pace of the book, and much of it is characters talking about how amazing Sean is. Some of the plot line stretches the limits of reality, though less than books from other authors I could name. And there is still an editing issue, with numerous grammatical and spelling mistakes that truthfully don't get in the way of the story line.
Recommended, especially for a beach read and for fans of Travis McGee.
February 10, 2019
Absolutely wonderful!
I gave 5 stars but the book should get more. I've read 2 of Tom Lowe's
books with same characters plus many new ones introduced. Sean O'Brien ex-delta force and his #1 lady a 10lb. Dachshund Max, Nick the Greek, Dave the retired CIA special agent and let's not forget Sean's #2 lady (at this time) Winona Osceola ex-FBI agent now a Deputy working on the Seminole Reservation Police Dept. in the Florida Everglades make for a resourceful, intelligent, motivated group of people I'd want at my six anytime, anywhere. They have pulled thru some fast paced, to the wire, thrilling, unpredictable, gruesome, adventurous escapades I've ever read. WOW can you tell I can't wait to read more of Tom Lowe
I gave 5 stars but the book should get more. I've read 2 of Tom Lowe's
books with same characters plus many new ones introduced. Sean O'Brien ex-delta force and his #1 lady a 10lb. Dachshund Max, Nick the Greek, Dave the retired CIA special agent and let's not forget Sean's #2 lady (at this time) Winona Osceola ex-FBI agent now a Deputy working on the Seminole Reservation Police Dept. in the Florida Everglades make for a resourceful, intelligent, motivated group of people I'd want at my six anytime, anywhere. They have pulled thru some fast paced, to the wire, thrilling, unpredictable, gruesome, adventurous escapades I've ever read. WOW can you tell I can't wait to read more of Tom Lowe
February 12, 2019
Proof Readibg
Once again, Mr Lowe proves that he has some excellent story ideas. But, as in some earlier works, he tries to weave too many things into one novel. And he still needs to find a proof reader - so many mistakes to take a reader out of the pace of the story. The point of view jumps all over the place, sometimes shifting within a single paragraph, which makes things confusing to follow. I really like the main characters, and would love to see what they could do in a story with good editing and proofing.
Once again, Mr Lowe proves that he has some excellent story ideas. But, as in some earlier works, he tries to weave too many things into one novel. And he still needs to find a proof reader - so many mistakes to take a reader out of the pace of the story. The point of view jumps all over the place, sometimes shifting within a single paragraph, which makes things confusing to follow. I really like the main characters, and would love to see what they could do in a story with good editing and proofing.
April 15, 2019
Dragonfly by author Tom Lowe is another one of my favorite books to read this year. I have enjoyed all of the Sean O’Brien series. The stories are filled with mystery, adventure, and an ongoing understanding of the emotions the core characters are experiencing. Dragonfly will place the reader back on the sea with friends and foes. I won't post spoilers but there are several plots woven into this story which kept me reading even after I should have put the book down and turned off the light, but I just could not stop reading! I adore little Max! The book cover is beautiful!
March 2, 2019
"Dragonfly" was a great book. This is 11th book I have read by Tom Lowe. Every one has been great. The stories are suspenseful, loaded with the quirks of human nature, riveting story line, and you learn something about the area in which the story takes place. I have never been disappointed, which can happen when you read almost the entire works of a writer. Not with this writer. "Dragonfly" just came out and I am ready for the next Sean O'Brien adventure...
March 16, 2019
Slow to take off
I love Tom Lowe's writing, which grips you with a steel hand during the dramatic combat operations and then caresses you with the silken beauty of his innate poetry as he describes the natural world. That said, the beginning and middle of this novel became bogged down in clandestine and geopolitical discourse. The end seemed almost an afterthought and received short shrift. I'm disappointed and long for the old Sean O'Brien.
I love Tom Lowe's writing, which grips you with a steel hand during the dramatic combat operations and then caresses you with the silken beauty of his innate poetry as he describes the natural world. That said, the beginning and middle of this novel became bogged down in clandestine and geopolitical discourse. The end seemed almost an afterthought and received short shrift. I'm disappointed and long for the old Sean O'Brien.
March 31, 2019
Fantastic book
This book kept you on the edge of your seat,so to speak. I have to say that I not only enjoyed this book, but the entire series. There was never a dull moment in any of the books. I loved the story lines, even though I hated some of the things that happened. I love the main characters, even Miss Max.
I sincerely hope this is not the end of the series.
Tom Lowe, Thank you for the fantastic stories.
This book kept you on the edge of your seat,so to speak. I have to say that I not only enjoyed this book, but the entire series. There was never a dull moment in any of the books. I loved the story lines, even though I hated some of the things that happened. I love the main characters, even Miss Max.
I sincerely hope this is not the end of the series.
Tom Lowe, Thank you for the fantastic stories.
July 26, 2019
Short Take: An amazing, investigative page turner.
Seaon O'Brien - uncanny in his observation skills, demonstrates why he is so special, yet again!!
Dave Collins hears a news that his team member during his CIA days was murdered. When another one is murdered, with a note - "and then there were three" - he realizes he has a target on his back. But then having Sean for a friend does have an advantage. And so begins the game of shadows - with a page turning sequence of events!
Seaon O'Brien - uncanny in his observation skills, demonstrates why he is so special, yet again!!
Dave Collins hears a news that his team member during his CIA days was murdered. When another one is murdered, with a note - "and then there were three" - he realizes he has a target on his back. But then having Sean for a friend does have an advantage. And so begins the game of shadows - with a page turning sequence of events!
July 9, 2021
Wonderful thriller listening 🔰
Due to eye issues and damage caused by shingles Alexa reads to me.
Another very will written romantic thriller mystery adventure in the Sean O'Brien Series. The characters are very will developed and interesting. The story line starts on the east coast of Florida racing to the climax in the Bahamas. I highly recommend this series to fans of mysteries. Enjoy the adventure of reading 📚2021 😀🐕👙
Due to eye issues and damage caused by shingles Alexa reads to me.
Another very will written romantic thriller mystery adventure in the Sean O'Brien Series. The characters are very will developed and interesting. The story line starts on the east coast of Florida racing to the climax in the Bahamas. I highly recommend this series to fans of mysteries. Enjoy the adventure of reading 📚2021 😀🐕👙
February 28, 2019
Excellent!
Tom Lowe, this is your best Sean O'Brien yet! A hell of a thriller. I've read every single O'Brien books and it's like "coming home" to be and his pier bud
Tom Lowe, you're at peak performance with this one. I've read all the O'Brien books, and it feels like "coming home" to be with Sean and his pier buddies! I loved it.
Tom Lowe, this is your best Sean O'Brien yet! A hell of a thriller. I've read every single O'Brien books and it's like "coming home" to be and his pier bud
Tom Lowe, you're at peak performance with this one. I've read all the O'Brien books, and it feels like "coming home" to be with Sean and his pier buddies! I loved it.
June 13, 2019
Dragonfly
I eagerly waited for this book and it didn't disappoint. Tom Lowe has such an engaging writing style and this story took off from the get-go. I was worried that it would go off on the tangent of terrorism and be full of international stuff. It didn't and I loved the fact it stayed local to the marina and all of O'Brien's friends. Absolutely love this book.
I eagerly waited for this book and it didn't disappoint. Tom Lowe has such an engaging writing style and this story took off from the get-go. I was worried that it would go off on the tangent of terrorism and be full of international stuff. It didn't and I loved the fact it stayed local to the marina and all of O'Brien's friends. Absolutely love this book.
August 25, 2019
Wonderful Series! Must read!
The Sean O'Brien series by Tom Lowe are all wonderful books. Once you start one you can not put it down. They are well written and realistic and makes you wish there were a lot of Sean O'Briens out there in our real world fighting for justice. Hope Mr Lowe has another book soon after Dragonfly.
The Sean O'Brien series by Tom Lowe are all wonderful books. Once you start one you can not put it down. They are well written and realistic and makes you wish there were a lot of Sean O'Briens out there in our real world fighting for justice. Hope Mr Lowe has another book soon after Dragonfly.
October 25, 2021
I almost gave up on this thriller, because it didn't become a thriller until I was over 60% through the book. Then the action and suspense picked up and I was invested. I would like to see the main characters fleshed out more. At time, they seem cardboard-like; too good, too bad, too lucky. Love Max the dog, though!
January 20, 2019
Excellent as always from Tom Lowe
Loved reading this book and the adventures of Sean O’Brien. Well developed characters and page turning plot! I read it in one sitting. Couldn’t put it down
Loved reading this book and the adventures of Sean O’Brien. Well developed characters and page turning plot! I read it in one sitting. Couldn’t put it down
January 21, 2019
Another good book by Tom Lowe
Another great story with mystery and suspense. Lots of great characters and situations that provide sufficient interest to keep you reading.on and on. These books would make an excellent movie or series. Hey Amazon get with it.
Another great story with mystery and suspense. Lots of great characters and situations that provide sufficient interest to keep you reading.on and on. These books would make an excellent movie or series. Hey Amazon get with it.
January 29, 2019
A fun read about a family of friends around a marina that takes on the bad guys and win! How they do it is a real nail biter and the rescue leads to fair seas and following winds and set the stage for adventures yet to be realized
February 13, 2019
A great book, a great adventure, a mug read!
I have read all of Tom Lowe's books. The last two were exceptionally good reads. I look forward to Tom's next book. It can't be soon enough for me!
I have read all of Tom Lowe's books. The last two were exceptionally good reads. I look forward to Tom's next book. It can't be soon enough for me!
March 12, 2019
I enjoyed this Sean O'Brien novel, it was suspenseful and kept you going to the end. It reminds me of the Travis McGee novels written by John D. McDonald. I read every Sean O'Brian novel I can get my hands on.;
March 29, 2019
Continuous action
Fast paced, exciting action with peaks of suspense. The characters are diverse and interesting. Loved reading it but hope the main character doesn't always take the girl on a sailing trip!
Fast paced, exciting action with peaks of suspense. The characters are diverse and interesting. Loved reading it but hope the main character doesn't always take the girl on a sailing trip!
August 6, 2019
Good story
But...mired down in descriptions and explanations. Mr. Lowe is a fine writer and I’m very fond of Sean O’Brien, Max, Nick and Dave. This novel has an excellent story line but it got lost in descriptions and explanations. Good but not one of Tom’s best.
But...mired down in descriptions and explanations. Mr. Lowe is a fine writer and I’m very fond of Sean O’Brien, Max, Nick and Dave. This novel has an excellent story line but it got lost in descriptions and explanations. Good but not one of Tom’s best.
December 18, 2019
When friends are in danger....
Sean would be the one to call. In these books I find myself hoping he solves the mystery before a likeable character is injured or killed which unlike many other books of this genre may not be the case.
Sean would be the one to call. In these books I find myself hoping he solves the mystery before a likeable character is injured or killed which unlike many other books of this genre may not be the case.
August 28, 2021
A Great Adventure
Another winner from Mr. Lowe. I’ve been a fan of the Sean O’Brien books from the first one read. This certainly won’t be the last. Quite entertaining. I recommend it.
Another winner from Mr. Lowe. I’ve been a fan of the Sean O’Brien books from the first one read. This certainly won’t be the last. Quite entertaining. I recommend it.
February 6, 2019
Another great book by Tom. I love reading the adventures of Sean and little Max and friends. I just home the stories will keep coming.
February 1, 2019
One of my favorites!
I really enjoyed this particular Sean O'Brien book. I think it's because he was at the docks. I like the characters at the docks!
I really enjoyed this particular Sean O'Brien book. I think it's because he was at the docks. I like the characters at the docks!
February 15, 2019
Good Read
One of the best page turners could not put it down!!. Now got to decide which one want to start next.
One of the best page turners could not put it down!!. Now got to decide which one want to start next.
February 26, 2019
Another good Sean O'Brien book. I have read them all and Tom Lowe always provides another good story. I highly recommend this series.
March 3, 2019
Great book
I have read each book in the series. Love the characters. This one is the best so far. Hope the series continues
I have read each book in the series. Love the characters. This one is the best so far. Hope the series continues
October 2, 2019
Fabulous!
Yet another amazing story w/ Sean O'Brien! Each one I couldn't put down. Literally! I've finished them all,so now what do I read?
Yet another amazing story w/ Sean O'Brien! Each one I couldn't put down. Literally! I've finished them all,so now what do I read?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews