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Rex Dalton #5

The French Girl

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Rex Dalton and his best friend, Digger, the former military dog, are looking forward to a trouble-free holiday on the idyllic islands of Vanuatu in the South Pacific Ocean. Swimming, playing on the beach, fishing, and hikes. Nothing but the laid-back lifestyle for the two of them. Then Digger introduces Rex to a beautiful French girl, not once, but twice. Soon, Rex and the girl become good friends. Then she disappears, and Rex is accused of having something to do with it. Thus, begins a series of dramatic and life-threatening events with international repercussions with Rex, Digger and the French girl in the center of it. THE FRENCH GIRL is a full-length novel, a nail-biting thriller by best-selling author JC Ryan. It is the sixth book in the electrifying new Rex Dalton series.

479 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 15, 2019

1607 people are currently reading
417 people want to read

About the author

J.C. Ryan

47 books149 followers
J 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.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
Profile Image for Kathi Defranc.
1,182 reviews497 followers
February 19, 2019
A Wild Journey That Has Everyone Confused

Ex-Special Operator Rex Dalton and his former military best friend , Digger, an extraordinary dog, continue their solitary journey to relax and enjoy history while thinking of finding all who betrayed them. Every country they travel to, some trouble finds them, as Rex follows a moral compass that focuses on the right way, forcing him to help when he sees an injustice in front of him.
Fast-paced action, amazing characters, a story of politics and corruption take you along an exhilarating trail with danger beside you the entire way!!
Another wonderful, fulfilling story from an author who does not make a mistake!!
Profile Image for Jay Williams.
1,718 reviews33 followers
June 27, 2019
Rex and Digger meet a lovely woman while on vacation in a remote island resort. She becomes a project for him when she seems to disappear, and both Russian and French black ops are looking for her. The story is imaginative. The characters are very realistic, and the style of writing makes for easy reading. Rex adds a talent for languages to his martial arts expertise to handle large numbers of agents with ease. Suspense rides through every page, but eventually subsides in a heartwarming ending.
Profile Image for Cath.
950 reviews17 followers
January 11, 2020
This is book six in the Rex Dalton series and follows out hero, Rex, as he and his companion, Digger, go to another isolated place for what should be a proper holiday. This time he travels from Mumbai to the tiny holiday island of Vanuatu, for some rest, relaxation and recuperation. He wants to enjoy time on the beach with Digger, swimming in the ocean, hikes into the hills and a bit of fishing. What he gets, as usual, is a lady in trouble.

Digger is the one that introduces Rex to a French woman, also on a long holiday and staying in the resort beside his beach side hut. They keep bumping into her, mostly through Digger and they soon build a friendship, going for meals and walks together. Digger’s sense of whether someone is a good person or not, seems to be on the target again. Another woman, Ida, who had befriended the French woman of the title, is someone Digger doesn’t like and this automatically raises Rex’s suspicions. She is not who she seems, but then, neither are Rex or the French woman who goes by Jacqui but is really called Margot.

Rex and Digger arrange to meet the woman after she is away for a couple of days, but he is left hanging. She doesn’t turn up in the following days either and he asks the ‘friend’ to search her room with him. She doesn’t seem exactly worried and is reluctant to even report her missing, when she had been attached to her hip! Something weird is going on. Finding the island’s cops on his door shortly after finds him being taken in for questioning for her disappearance and possible murder! Seems the untrustworthy ‘friend’ had dobbed him in and said he threatened the French woman.

What her reasons for that was, Rex has yet to find out. He knows that what the police believe happen is wrong and sets up to investigate what happened for himself. If there was foul play or if Margot is in danger, then Rex and Digger will be on the case. He again relies on the assistance of Rehka, the woman he saved from a Saudi harem, who now runs his IT and financial administration. She is left to track any trace of Margot leaving the island and getting Rex and Digger right behind her. There are multiple reasons behind Margot’s disappearance, she is hiding a secret that could cause the downfall of the French President ad would cause quite a scandal.

Someone wants to keep her quiet and it is not just the French authorities that are following her tracks. There are Russian agents after her and someone is playing hardball with the French government. Rex gets to be a follower, following the followers, following the followers – yes, confusing, but true in this case. The investigation and rescue to Margot ends up putting Rex and Digger in danger and actual bodily harm from their opponents. They end up travelling and hiding in numerous locations, but have to try harder to cover Margot’s tracks when she doesn’t have the same sense of spycraft that Rex does.

A convoluted storyline, leading from place to place and with lots of involvement from Rehka in this book, which I enjoyed. Up against French and Russian Special Forces and an unclear agenda for his rescue attempt, Rex has to follow his gut and do what he can to protect the damsel in distress, yet again. Something he and Digger are very good at. This time they don’t come out of the tale unscathed, but this makes it more realistic.

Another cracking story with Rex and Digger, getting closer, yet further away from clearing his name and getting back to the woman he could possibly love long term. Definitely one of the more realistic of the storylines so far, without going too political, but covering something you can imagine happening if you follow the world news. I would recommend this to anyone that likes a good thriller or has read any of the author’s other books. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Profile Image for Texas.
1,685 reviews394 followers
February 2, 2019
Rex Dalton series:
The French Girl #6 - I love that the author always has an overview of the story at the beginning of the book. Get ready for a whirlwind journey from country to country with Rex and Trigger saving others, yet again. The beginning, for me, started a bit slow laying the foundation about France and the main players there. But once the story started rolling, the pace never slowed down. The story lines run amok with all the different characters and agendas that occur in this book.

The characters are still believable and developed enough for their roles, while there's more to Rex and Digger. The dialog remains realistic without any stupidity. There's plenty of emotions spilling out of the pages and the suspense is thick in many places. Mr. Ryan's vivid descriptions place the reader in the middle of the action and still leaves plenty for the imagination. Well written and well thought out, the series continues to grow in substance and leaves the reader wondering when the past is going to cross Rex's path. Rehka does wonders as Rex's girl Friday. I contacted the author to review his books. 5*

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. I contacted the author to review his books and received this one through AXP. 5*

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*

The Inca Con #5 - I can't wait to read a book from this series and I'm so lucky to have found this author after he released several books. I don't have to wait long to read the next one. In Peru, chasing history and finding a whole can of whoop*** keeps Rex and Digger in their roles as guardians for several different characters plus a village and their dying children. The duo are closed to married couple status finishing each other's thoughts; no traces of their earlier relationship since they've been together over a year. The storylines are interesting, the pace is steady and the action realistic. There's no stupidity, dumb dialog or Hollywood action scenes. A special character holds Rex's attention and she's not a dumb dame. Read these books in order for best value. I contacted the author a while back to review his books and found this book on AXP. 5*
Rex Dalton end.
7 reviews
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February 16, 2019
Rex Dalton series

This series remind me of a series I used to buy in the '60s '70s. The series was about a character named Mack Bolan. It was a good series too but it got a bit too much, like a written comic character. I hope that this is not the same. To me 3 is enough in a series!
24 reviews
February 25, 2019
The French Girl

Rex and Digger come to the rescue once again. Rex Dalton, was formerly trained as a special forces soldier and to execute high level assignations. Digger is a highly trained military dog that Rex inherits when it’s trainer/handler and Rex’s good buddy is killed in a mission turned ambush. The same mission that presumably killed Rex. With his presumed death working in his favor Rex takes Digger and they go to ground while Rex uses the time to gather enough information to learn who was responsible for the ill fated mission.

Meanwhile Rex has done some social work in the form of cleaning up little pockets of evil here and there. It would seem that he is destined to turn up where innocent people are being exploited. His special skill set goes a long way toward righting some of the wrongs.

In The French Girl Rex once again happens upon a damsel in distress. This time two governments are involved and diplomacy is called for. After Rex gets everyone’s attention using his and Digger’s special tactics, most everything can be worked out. It’s a fun read, action packed and dramatic. Rex and Digger will hook you and reel you in. And you’ll also be looking forward to their next great adventure.
Profile Image for Carlos Mock.
931 reviews14 followers
October 31, 2020
The French Girl (Rex Dalton #6) by J.C. Ryan

Rex Dalton is in Vanuatu getting some relaxing time when his dog, Digger meets Jaqui Madrolle, a French woman. She turns out to be the French Press Secretary, Margot Lemaire. Margot is pregnant with Guilles Raphael Aguillard - The French President's baby. Russia is trying to get a pipeline through France and will use Margot to blackmail Aguillard. Thus Margot is dangerously pursued by both French and Russian operatives.

Rex has to navigate both threats and make sure Margot will be able to safely deliver her baby.

The book is narrated from the third-person point of view. It has a very slow start because Ryan is trying to catch the reader up to speed with the first five books. That makes the book a stand-alone one, but it is very slow, and in my opinion, it was unnecessary. The action is slow and poorly written. The dictum: "show don't tell" was completely missed by the author. For the most part, it felt like there was a lot of telling and little action.

That said, it was free - so I got what I paid for.
Profile Image for Donna.
874 reviews4 followers
February 7, 2019
Author JC Ryan continues with the “adventures” of Rex Dalton and his best mate and partner, Digger the wonder dog! If you haven’t read any of Rex and Digger’s previous exploits, you should; however, even if you haven’t this dramatic thriller can be read as a stand alone. JC Ryan gives you enough information without it being redundant to keep you in the loop. A well written tale full of mystery, international intrigue, and action. Rex and Digger never seem to be far from the action, even when they are trying to. This time on what’s supposed to be a relaxing vacation on the island of Vanuatu, Digger manages to introduce Rex to the lovely Jacqui Madrolle. Things aren’t always what they appear to be, and people aren’t always who they claim to be. When Jacquie disappears and Rex is picked up for questioning regarding the disappearance of a Margot Lemaire, he starts putting the pieces together. Follow along with Rex and Digger as they try to unravel this puzzle.
Profile Image for Claudete Takahashi.
2,615 reviews36 followers
July 27, 2020
In an elegant prose we read again about Rex´s and Digger´s tribulations to help their new friend who seems to be in danger. There´s a lot of action and description of beautiful places - as always - Digger´s facial recognitions of the praise or pranks that are played on him by Rex are just hilarious, but dog owners know that dogs are able to read their minds and answer in their wicked ways! Again, as in previous books, although this is a work of fiction, there is so much that resembles reality and that sure is frightening. I really enjoyed reading this book which is entertaining and full of action and besides all shows what family and friendship is about - helping and accepting - no questions necessarily asked.
I downloaded a free copy of this book through Booksprout and this is my unbiased review.
Profile Image for Anne.
Author 1 book8 followers
February 6, 2019
Another fast-paced thriller, this time with a political twist. The story brings out yet another side of Rex's complex character as he gets to know a beautiful French girl whilst on holiday. When she vanishes the hunt is on to find out where she has gone. Is she dead, kidnapped or in hiding? Rex and his faithful companion Digger set off to solve the mystery. What are a group of Russians doing? Why are French agents following the Russians? Who is behind it all? A tale of power and corruption, of powerful men abusing their position, and of loyalty and steadfast friendship in the face of extreme danger.

This was an ARC copy supplied for an honest review, even paid for this would be a 5* review. JC Ryan is on top form, read it and enjoy!
233 reviews1 follower
January 15, 2023
Once again, Dalton and Digger come to the rescue of a fair maiden. While relaxing on Vanuatu Island Dalton meets a beautiful French woman, but can’t shake the feeling that something is bothering her. When she disappears, he can’t believe she has drowned, and lets Digger find her trail. She has boarded a boat, and he follows her path to Vietnam. Russian and French agents are both following her, and Dalton needs to find out why. He and Digger save the day, and what could have been Dalton’s love for life doesn’t happen because he still needs to find out who betrayed his team and led to everyone’s death but his. ENJOY!
460 reviews2 followers
September 12, 2020
Another Winner For JC Ryan!

This book for Author Ryan seems a bit of a departure from earlier books in that the action is not as intense nor sustained. But that by no means is to say that it falls flat. There are twists and turns that keep the story moving and developing and interesting. While previous books were fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants haram-karam from the get go this one allows us to see a more cerebral Rex Dalton and experience the mind that is a special ops veteran. While these books are fiction the stories are not necessarily so.
319 reviews3 followers
December 3, 2021
One man army saves the female press secretary of France

After a secret affair with the French president, his press secretary, finds she is pregnant. To avoid a scandal, she decides to retire in seclusion. However, the Russians want to kidnapped her to force France to allow Russia to put a gas pipeline through France. Our hero has to fight off Russian thugs, as well as French intelligence forces, who want to kidnapped her for their own reasons.
Thoroughly enjoyed the book, even if it was a lot unbelievable.
Profile Image for Bob Hurley.
494 reviews
March 14, 2022
Digger and Dacha

I have read all of the JC Ryan, Rex Dalton stories and thoroughly enjoyed them. Once again Rex puts himself at jeopardy to protect a vulnerable and innocent person in an adventure with his loyal companion Digger. From Vanuatu via Singapore, Vietnam, India, France and Russia Rex and Digger do their utmost to protect the honesty, innocence and reputation of a young lady that Digger got to know on a beach in Vanuatu. Great writing, brilliant backgrounds and great adventure once again produce a thoroughly enjoyable novel
Profile Image for Deb.
179 reviews
February 16, 2019
Rex Dalton and Digger to the rescue again, almost makes one wonder how did Rex function without Digger in the first few books? Probably the best book of the series yet, definitely leaves the reader looking forward to the next installment. The characters in Mr. Ryan's books are all well developed, the action is fast paced, and the story lines take the reader on some wild rides. Highly recommend any JC Ryan book.
506 reviews3 followers
January 7, 2020
WOW!!! ANOTHER AWESOME READ!!

Another can't put down until the very and...leaving the reader wanting more. A fast paced read, as it seems that Rex and Digger are slipping from one dangerous event to another!! All from the meeting of a young woman, who seems to be having quite a bit of a problem. Of course, Rex and Digger to the rescue!!
Me? I'm happily off the read the next book!!
Ta Ta for now!!
554 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2020
No holiday for Rex!

Rex is one unlucky man as, yet again, his holiday takes an unexpected twist. He, or was it Digger, befriends a girl at the resort. She disappears and Rex wonders why. It turns out that she is the key, via blackmail, to getting a Russian pipeline laid through France. And so the fun begins again taking us to Vietnam, India, France and Russia.
Another brilliant tale from this author.
526 reviews6 followers
September 14, 2020
Unforgettable

Another magnicent and thrilling book from the wonderful and entertaining pen of author extraordinaire, J C Ryan. Another truly outstanding book of action, drama and thrills furthering the guile and panache of Rex Dalton and his trusty companion, service dog, Digger. It would be remiss to not to continue reading these latest adventures of these two truly magnificent characters and their continuing friendship and union.
289 reviews2 followers
October 3, 2020
Perfect crime story

I feel privileged to have the opportunity to read this rex and digger crime drama which would make an amazing series. Rec follows the disappearance of a brief acquaintance made while seeking rest and relaxation on a remote island. He is sought by both Russian and French political forces. Rec and Digger are highly trained and brilliant I their tactics. Can't wait to read more.
Profile Image for U J Osborne.
11 reviews
April 29, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book; Digger is the star. The book is a real page turner. Must admit I have enjoyed all the Rex Dalton stories, however, and it is a big however, without fail, all the women in the stories need to be taken care of and looked after. I think the books reflect the age of the author and his social positioning, and they all, without fail, have a misogynistic bent, and figure big, strong Rex taking care of the weak little woman. Some of the syntax could do with a tidy up too.
651 reviews1 follower
March 25, 2022
Now the Rex Dalton is independently wealthy from monies stolen from bad guys, he can choose his battles. When a French girl he meets on vacation disappears, he tracks her down and learns that others are tracking her too. So along with his dog Digger he becomes her personal savior. Even though neither she nor he are using their real name.
Another fine Rex Dalton thriller. And boy can he be violent.
Profile Image for Lisa McMeekin.
37 reviews
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June 10, 2023
Intrigue with political repercussions

I loved the new character of Marble us beautiful, pregnant woman who just wats to be left alone to have her baby in peace, unfortunately the child also belongs to the President of France & the very knowledge of the pregnancy could bring down his Presidency, his party, his country & even harm Nato. A problem only Red Dalton & Digger can solve.
Profile Image for Sharon Buck.
Author 33 books31 followers
August 20, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked the main character and how he had three different pseudonyms, yet it was very clear throughout the book as to which one he was at all times. Loved that he had his highly trained dog with him. The plot line was strong and very believable.

This is the third book I've read by this author, and I've enjoyed each one. I recommend this book if you like action with a hint of possible romance.
181 reviews2 followers
April 6, 2019
MOS: More of the same...

What can I say...J C Ryan has hit the bullseye with the Rex Dalton series. This installment uses the same formula as it's predessesors, unfortunately is is showing its age. The read, while exciting, is predictable in many respects. Hopefully the next in the series will offer the creativity and charactorization of its previous adventures.
25 reviews
March 7, 2019
This series was really great

JC Ryan is a wonderful author. I read the entire series and had difficulty not reading them straight through. Highly recommended for thoughtful chacterizations, distinctive plots, a protagonist with skills as well as heart, and a canine we would all love to own. Thank you!
Profile Image for Angela Anderson.
90 reviews6 followers
March 20, 2019
Another fantastic adventure with Rex and his service dog Digger.
This time Rex is caught up with a French Woman who's being pursed by the Russian's and her own country. Margot has a secret she's trying to keep to herself so as not to ruin a marriage and possibly a president. This was a really enjoyable book in the series.
Profile Image for Margaret.
792 reviews5 followers
March 25, 2019
Rex and military dog Digger are saving the world a piece at a time again. This time it is The French Girl in need of their caring assistance. It is a mad chase from one country to the next. This J. C. Ryan's The French Girl (A Rex Dalton Thriller #6). At the speed ( and book length ) Ryan writes, I doubt I'll run out of his terrific thrillers anytime soon - which suits be just fine. So far, they are all 5 star reads.
727 reviews
September 12, 2020
A man and his dog!

This is a story of a man and his service dog whose training and stamina reek of the impossible. His purpose in life is to help someone in need. He gives his all to rescue and see that justice prevails. He's a very likable person, I was impressed. There's action, mystery, danger and intrigue, you will be impressed.
53 reviews
September 16, 2020
Exciting!

This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm sure it won't be the last. I found it was fast-paced, exciting and very well-written. Lots of action and different locations. The main characters were admirable without using bad language or falling into bed every other page. I especially liked Digger.
922 reviews11 followers
November 13, 2020
Brilliantly Developed and Executed Throughout!

Just including a dog as one of the main characters earns almost any author a few extra stars! But when all characters are as full of life, intelligent and energetic as "Digger," only a master wordsmith like US Ryan can prompt readers to keep turning pages fast! Definitely a masterpiece!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews

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