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Jack Logan #1
The Network
A pulse-pounding, page-turning thriller involving corruption, secrets, and lies at the very deepest levels of government and media.
Late one night, investigative journalist Jack Logan receives a surprise visit from U.S. Senator Malcolm Phillips at his New York apartment. Disheveled and in a panic, the senator swears that he’s about to be murdered and pleads with Jack to protect his wife Taylor, who happens to be the only woman Jack has ever truly loved.
Days later, Phillips is found dead in a hotel room in Micronesia, the apparent victim of an allergy attack. While the nation mourns, Jack and Taylor race to find the one man who knows the truth. As they’re pursued by unknown assailants, their desperate hunt leads them to the Institute, an immense facility shrouded in mystery that has indoctrinated a generation of America’s political and media power players. Led by the enigmatic Damon Crosse, the Institute has its tentacles everywhere—but Taylor unknowingly holds the secret to the one thing that Crosse needs to carry out his plan.
Taking readers on a thrill ride from the back halls of Congress to the high-rise offices of Madison Avenue and a remote Greek island, The Network is a provocative, pulse-pounding novel that dares to ask the question: who’s really in charge?
Late one night, investigative journalist Jack Logan receives a surprise visit from U.S. Senator Malcolm Phillips at his New York apartment. Disheveled and in a panic, the senator swears that he’s about to be murdered and pleads with Jack to protect his wife Taylor, who happens to be the only woman Jack has ever truly loved.
Days later, Phillips is found dead in a hotel room in Micronesia, the apparent victim of an allergy attack. While the nation mourns, Jack and Taylor race to find the one man who knows the truth. As they’re pursued by unknown assailants, their desperate hunt leads them to the Institute, an immense facility shrouded in mystery that has indoctrinated a generation of America’s political and media power players. Led by the enigmatic Damon Crosse, the Institute has its tentacles everywhere—but Taylor unknowingly holds the secret to the one thing that Crosse needs to carry out his plan.
Taking readers on a thrill ride from the back halls of Congress to the high-rise offices of Madison Avenue and a remote Greek island, The Network is a provocative, pulse-pounding novel that dares to ask the question: who’s really in charge?
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2016
215 people are currently reading
4103 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Constantine
4 books108 followersLynne Constantine is a coffee-drinking, Instagram-addicted fiction author always working on her next book. She is the international bestselling co-author of THE LAST MRS. PARRISH and THE LAST TIME I SAW YOU, and THE WIFE STALKER written under the pen name Liv Constantine. She also writes under the pen name L.C. Shaw. THE NETWORK came out in Dec 2019 and her next in the series THE SILENT CONSPIRACY will be published on Sep 15, 2020.
Visit Lynne at www.livconstantine.com or
www.lcshawauthor.com
Visit Lynne at www.livconstantine.com or
www.lcshawauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
December 15, 2019
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
Investigative journalist, Jack Logan is surprised when he receives an unexpected visitor late one evening. His visitor is U.S. Senator Malcolm Phillips. The Senator barges in telling Jack that he needs his help. He’s talking so fast that Jack struggles to keep up. Then he hands Jack a garage remote and an envelope.
“Take this. You’ll need it to convince Taylor. I didn’t believe it. He told me he would do it. I didn’t believe him but…they’ll kill me”
He tells Jack that he’s the only one he can trust. He wants Jack to find his wife, Taylor and take her to someone named Jeremy. Jack knows that he’ll be the LAST person that Taylor wants to see. Malcolm tells Jack to show Taylor the envelope. He says the contents will explain everything. As he runs out the door he tells Jack to remember that no matter what it looks like, he’s NOT suicidal or accident-prone.
Jack is shocked by what just happened. Has the Senator lost his mind or does someone really want him dead? And who is Jeremy? Jack sets a Google alert for the Senator’s name and starts to investigate by opening the envelope with Taylor’s name on it.
A week later he gets a Google alert.
Jack has to get to Taylor. Jack and Taylor have a complicated history and they haven’t seen each other in almost fifteen years. But she’s in danger and Jack knows he must help, even though it means he’ll be putting a target on his own back.
Taylor is shocked when she finds Jack at her door. He quickly tries to explain what Malcolm told him and says that they must leave immediately. At first Taylor refuses but then someone else arrives. Jack and Taylor need to leave, but how will they get past the people outside?
Now Jack and Taylor are being hunted by someone unlikely to give up until he gets what he wants.
Will Jack be able to keep both Taylor and himself alive?
This was quite an intense and exciting read!
Most of the story is told from Jack and Taylor’s perspective but does include quite a few other character's points of view (past and present). We learn more about Jack and Taylor’s history as well as the history of “The Institute” located on a remote island and run by the mysterious and powerful, Damon Crosse.
A fast-paced and intense story about morality, politics, religion, power, corruption and more. There really is a lot going on. Some parts were difficult to read but were not prolonged. There were definitely some parts that were over the top, but like a good action movie, you know it can’t all possibly happen in real life, but it’s still entertaining. Some of the political and medical stuff went over my head, but I was still really invested in the story. I found the parts about Reality TV and society especially interesting.
A sinister conspiracy thriller with many twists and turns!
I'm looking forward to the next book in this thrilling series!
I'd like to thank Harper for providing me with a copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2019
Investigative journalist Jack Logan is contacted by a United States Senator for a meeting. It's been a while since they last talked and the Senator is behaving irrationally. The senator foresees his own assassination and is seeking help for himself and his wife, Taylor. Jack is left with a sealed envelope to be opened upon the senator’s his death.
Shortly after Senator Phillips’ death, Jack rushes to protect Taylor. He is unsure how she will react because they were once lovers. They make a quick escape using clues from the senator's envelope. Their goal is to get to safety while figuring out why the senator was killed.Together they begin to unravel a global network of conspiracy with very dark motives.
This book by LC Shaw is a mixture of thriller and suspense. I enjoyed this action-packed novel that kept me guessing, and I look forward to a sequel.
Shortly after Senator Phillips’ death, Jack rushes to protect Taylor. He is unsure how she will react because they were once lovers. They make a quick escape using clues from the senator's envelope. Their goal is to get to safety while figuring out why the senator was killed.Together they begin to unravel a global network of conspiracy with very dark motives.
This book by LC Shaw is a mixture of thriller and suspense. I enjoyed this action-packed novel that kept me guessing, and I look forward to a sequel.
December 11, 2019
Wow, this book was an intense, action packed thriller. Car chases, underground tunnels, bookcases that lead to a secret room, people held against their will, experiments that go against every single moral code, corrupt government officials...yes please! This book read like something straight out of a James Bond movie.
Jack Logan is an investigative reporter that gets a shocking late night visit from Senator Malcolm Phillips, who brings to him a story that is a bit hard to believe. Except within 48 hrs the Senator is dead, just as he had predicted...now it is up to Jack with his new found information to make some waves. Jack and the Senator's wife are now on the run. Running from who? There are so many people involved that is hard to say....
First off I was thrilled to discover that L.C. Shaw is part of the duo Liv Constantine, because I love their books! This book was so well written and it was so easy to read that I flew right through this in a mere day. It read like peeling the layers off an onion. I thought I knew what was going on and then I would discover another layer to this story. Very intriguing premise on how social media, reality television, politicians and media outlets can influence society and people's decision making process. It was very thought provoking, the fine art of persuasion and of course the fine art of paying a bunch of corrupt people off.
The Network did have a theme that took off halfway into the book about good vs evil and it did require you to suspend belief in some parts. With that being said, I thought the book was going to wrap up the ending with a neat little bow ( which I don't really care for). Instead the author pulled out an ending that left me wanting more....like another book in this series more....I can't wait to get my hands on the next in this series!
Thank you so much to HarperCollins for my finished copy of this book! I enjoyed it very much!! Looking forward to seeing what L.C. Shaw puts out next!
Jack Logan is an investigative reporter that gets a shocking late night visit from Senator Malcolm Phillips, who brings to him a story that is a bit hard to believe. Except within 48 hrs the Senator is dead, just as he had predicted...now it is up to Jack with his new found information to make some waves. Jack and the Senator's wife are now on the run. Running from who? There are so many people involved that is hard to say....
First off I was thrilled to discover that L.C. Shaw is part of the duo Liv Constantine, because I love their books! This book was so well written and it was so easy to read that I flew right through this in a mere day. It read like peeling the layers off an onion. I thought I knew what was going on and then I would discover another layer to this story. Very intriguing premise on how social media, reality television, politicians and media outlets can influence society and people's decision making process. It was very thought provoking, the fine art of persuasion and of course the fine art of paying a bunch of corrupt people off.
The Network did have a theme that took off halfway into the book about good vs evil and it did require you to suspend belief in some parts. With that being said, I thought the book was going to wrap up the ending with a neat little bow ( which I don't really care for). Instead the author pulled out an ending that left me wanting more....like another book in this series more....I can't wait to get my hands on the next in this series!
Thank you so much to HarperCollins for my finished copy of this book! I enjoyed it very much!! Looking forward to seeing what L.C. Shaw puts out next!
December 13, 2019
Wowza what a wild nonstop ride this book was! This book was fast-paced, action packed, and mind blowing! L. C. Shaw is half of the sister author writing team of Live Constantine. I’ve loved both books from this author team, So I knew this would be thrilling, but I have to say this is more action thriller than psychological thriller. Car chases, buildings blowing up, murder, gun fights, all with a bit of a Da Vinci Code vibe. I don’t generally like to compare books, but this book really reminded me of The Da Vinci Code, so if you like that book you will definitely like this one. There were some religious and political themes in the story. As well as conspiracy theories and secret societies. You absolutely need to suspend belief to truly appreciate this book. But just as I loved The Da Vinci Code I also thoroughly enjoyed The Network.
Reporter jack Logan is approached by US senator Malcolm Phillips. Phillips is convinced that his assassination is eminent and asks Jack to take care of his wife Taylor after his death. Jack thinks the senator is a bit crazy, but when days later he is found dead Jack is convinced he needs to watch over Taylor. The problem is Taylor is his ex-girlfriend and things did not end well for this couple. What follows is a high octane pulse pounding thriller that will keep you on your toes. I loved puzzling the pieces of this book together. And even though some of it was a bit unbelievable and I didn’t always agree with the political implications, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am eager to see what’s next in store for Jack Logan.
🎧🎧🎧 The audiobook was narrated byCharlie Thurston. He did such an amazing job with all the different voices and really added the perfect amount of tension to the story.
This book in emojis 💥 🔪 ⚔️ 🧬 🔬 🙏🏻 🤯
*** Big thanks to Harper Collins for my copy of this book ***
Reporter jack Logan is approached by US senator Malcolm Phillips. Phillips is convinced that his assassination is eminent and asks Jack to take care of his wife Taylor after his death. Jack thinks the senator is a bit crazy, but when days later he is found dead Jack is convinced he needs to watch over Taylor. The problem is Taylor is his ex-girlfriend and things did not end well for this couple. What follows is a high octane pulse pounding thriller that will keep you on your toes. I loved puzzling the pieces of this book together. And even though some of it was a bit unbelievable and I didn’t always agree with the political implications, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am eager to see what’s next in store for Jack Logan.
🎧🎧🎧 The audiobook was narrated byCharlie Thurston. He did such an amazing job with all the different voices and really added the perfect amount of tension to the story.
This book in emojis 💥 🔪 ⚔️ 🧬 🔬 🙏🏻 🤯
*** Big thanks to Harper Collins for my copy of this book ***
December 17, 2019
THE NETWORK by L. C. Shaw starts out as a straight thriller that later evolves into an excellent thriller with a good versus evil theme. L. C. Shaw is the pen name of author Lynne Constantine who also writes novels with her sister as Liv Constantine. This is the first book in a new series.
Investigative journalist Jack Logan is visited at home by U.S. Senator Malcolm Phillips. Phillips believes he will be murdered and gives Jack a sealed envelope in case he is killed and asks Jack to protect his wife Taylor. Days later the Senator is found dead. With this beginning, the story line is off and running.
This book is extremely well written and fast-paced. For part of the book, it does go back and forward in time, but the transitions are smooth and easily followed. Jack and Taylor’s characters are well defined as is that of the main antagonist. There are lots of twists and turns.
Who can be trusted? There is corruption, betrayals, religious artifacts, conspiracy, secrets and much more.
Overall, the novel was thought-provoking, compelling and entertaining. If you enjoy good versus evil thrillers, I recommend you try this. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Many thanks to HarperCollins Publishers and L. C. Shaw for a digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Investigative journalist Jack Logan is visited at home by U.S. Senator Malcolm Phillips. Phillips believes he will be murdered and gives Jack a sealed envelope in case he is killed and asks Jack to protect his wife Taylor. Days later the Senator is found dead. With this beginning, the story line is off and running.
This book is extremely well written and fast-paced. For part of the book, it does go back and forward in time, but the transitions are smooth and easily followed. Jack and Taylor’s characters are well defined as is that of the main antagonist. There are lots of twists and turns.
Who can be trusted? There is corruption, betrayals, religious artifacts, conspiracy, secrets and much more.
Overall, the novel was thought-provoking, compelling and entertaining. If you enjoy good versus evil thrillers, I recommend you try this. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Many thanks to HarperCollins Publishers and L. C. Shaw for a digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
April 6, 2018
Investigative journalist Jack Logan is contacted by a United States Senator for a meeting. It's been a while since they last talked and the Senator is behaving irrationally. The senator foresees his own assassination and is seeking help for himself and his wife, Tracy. Jack is left with a sealed envelope to be opened upon the senator’s his death.
Shortly after Senator Phillips’ death, Jack rushes to protect Tracy. He is unsure how she will react because they were once lovers. They make a quick escape using clues from the senator's envelope. Their goal is to get to safety while figuring out why the senator was killed.Together they begin to unravel a global network of conspiracy with very dark motives.
This book by Lynne Constantine is a mixture of thriller and suspense. I enjoyed this action-packed novel that kept me guessing, and I look forward to a sequel.
Shortly after Senator Phillips’ death, Jack rushes to protect Tracy. He is unsure how she will react because they were once lovers. They make a quick escape using clues from the senator's envelope. Their goal is to get to safety while figuring out why the senator was killed.Together they begin to unravel a global network of conspiracy with very dark motives.
This book by Lynne Constantine is a mixture of thriller and suspense. I enjoyed this action-packed novel that kept me guessing, and I look forward to a sequel.
December 18, 2019
Before I even get into this review, I want to make it perfectly clear that I have no ill will with the author and I will definitely read her future books. That being said, I feel like a bait and switch was pulled on me with The Network, and I’m still reeling from what I just read.
This book opened as a heart palpitating, espionage thriller that I couldn’t get enough of. In less than 24 hours, Senator Malcolm Phillips is murdered but everything is being covered up as a tragic accident. His widow Taylor is 8 weeks pregnant and is high risk. She now must trust Jack Logan, the man who betrayed her years ago. Who could want to hurt her husband and why are people trying to kill her?
As we shift throughout the plot, we learn of Damon Crosse, a manipulative and sadistic man who controls everyone and everything around him. He is on the hunt for a set of coins that have been passed down since the beginning of time (biblically speaking that is) and are rumored to possess certain abilities. Now at this point, the book starts to touch into Dan Brown’s territory but with less finesse. I love Dan Brown, so I didn’t mind this interesting turn into the plot.
However, half way throw the story, we take a nose dive into faith, more specifically, Christian faith and the consequences associated with being a nonbeliever. All of a sudden, we find ourselves in a scenario where those who are morally good/sound in the story are those who trust in God and have faith. Those that are rapists, sadists, and make morally reprehensible decisions are atheist.
I don’t normally says these things in reviews because I assume it’s common knowledge and unnecessary. However, this book made me realize that it’s not, so here we go. Faith in a higher being does not equate to morality. Not ever. One of the one of the characters in the book was selected for impregnation because she was a Ph.D. scientist and an atheist therefore making her moral compass flexible. It was further revealed that it wasn’t until she reinstated her faith in God that she was capable of redemption and making sacrifices.
I found the second half of the book to not only be insulting but completely inaccurate. Just because someone is atheist doesn’t mean that they lack a moral compass. As a Ph.D. scientist myself, I am an atheist and faithless, but my moral compass is in tact. I don’t have any dark and insidious desires that need to be fulfilled because I lack faith in a higher being.
Overall, this book had so much potential in the beginning, but now I’m left insulted and wishing that I could erase the events that transpired in the last half.
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours and Harper Books for my review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
This book opened as a heart palpitating, espionage thriller that I couldn’t get enough of. In less than 24 hours, Senator Malcolm Phillips is murdered but everything is being covered up as a tragic accident. His widow Taylor is 8 weeks pregnant and is high risk. She now must trust Jack Logan, the man who betrayed her years ago. Who could want to hurt her husband and why are people trying to kill her?
As we shift throughout the plot, we learn of Damon Crosse, a manipulative and sadistic man who controls everyone and everything around him. He is on the hunt for a set of coins that have been passed down since the beginning of time (biblically speaking that is) and are rumored to possess certain abilities. Now at this point, the book starts to touch into Dan Brown’s territory but with less finesse. I love Dan Brown, so I didn’t mind this interesting turn into the plot.
However, half way throw the story, we take a nose dive into faith, more specifically, Christian faith and the consequences associated with being a nonbeliever. All of a sudden, we find ourselves in a scenario where those who are morally good/sound in the story are those who trust in God and have faith. Those that are rapists, sadists, and make morally reprehensible decisions are atheist.
I don’t normally says these things in reviews because I assume it’s common knowledge and unnecessary. However, this book made me realize that it’s not, so here we go. Faith in a higher being does not equate to morality. Not ever. One of the one of the characters in the book was selected for impregnation because she was a Ph.D. scientist and an atheist therefore making her moral compass flexible. It was further revealed that it wasn’t until she reinstated her faith in God that she was capable of redemption and making sacrifices.
I found the second half of the book to not only be insulting but completely inaccurate. Just because someone is atheist doesn’t mean that they lack a moral compass. As a Ph.D. scientist myself, I am an atheist and faithless, but my moral compass is in tact. I don’t have any dark and insidious desires that need to be fulfilled because I lack faith in a higher being.
Overall, this book had so much potential in the beginning, but now I’m left insulted and wishing that I could erase the events that transpired in the last half.
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours and Harper Books for my review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
December 17, 2019
The Network is the new series by L.C. Shaw, also known as Lynne Constantine, an author of thrillers with her sister, Liv Constantine. The Network is the first installment in the Jack Logan series.
To start out, it is GOOD. For me, it was a one-sitting read. The writing is smooth, and the tension begins with the first paragraph. It’s a thriller involving government and the media, which gives it a timely feel.
I could imagine Jack’s travels in a TV show or movie. He’s an investigative journalist called upon to protect the wife of a US Senator who winds up dead. The story even makes it way to a tiny Greek island. It’s all too much fun, and the series is more than promising. I’m ready for book two!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
Many of my reviews can also be found on instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
To start out, it is GOOD. For me, it was a one-sitting read. The writing is smooth, and the tension begins with the first paragraph. It’s a thriller involving government and the media, which gives it a timely feel.
I could imagine Jack’s travels in a TV show or movie. He’s an investigative journalist called upon to protect the wife of a US Senator who winds up dead. The story even makes it way to a tiny Greek island. It’s all too much fun, and the series is more than promising. I’m ready for book two!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
Many of my reviews can also be found on instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
November 17, 2019
What a dynamic novel to introduce a new series! I couldn't get enough of THE NETWORK. The story begins when Senator Malcolm Philips visits Jack Logan, an investigative journalist. Philips says he is about to be murdered and asks Jack to protect Philips's wife Taylor, who is Jack's former lover. So begins a novel of corruption and secrets! I highly recommend this novel, and I can't wait for the next one!
December 20, 2019
Fast-paced and intense! What I love about The Network by L.C. Shaw is that it is a true thriller. Not a psychological thriller, not a suspense thriller, not a mystery thriller—but a thriller through and through. Conspiracies, secrets, good guys vs. bad guys, and a man and woman on the run trying to uncover the truth! This book had it all!
Told in the past and present, The Network features investigative journalist Jack Logan who receives a surprise visit from a US Senator at his apartment telling him that he needs Jack’s help and he thinks he will be murdered. He asks Jack to take an envelope and a garage remote, to find his wife Taylor, and to bring Taylor to see a man named Jeremy.
To make things even more complex, Jack and Taylor know one another. They actually grew up together and Jack loved Taylor, but something happened between them that ruined their trust in one another. When an alert comes through about the Senator, Jack knows he must find Taylor and help save her. When he arrives, it becomes clear that they only way to uncover what is going on is to evade whoever is chasing them.
Meanwhile, an alternate storyline in the past is unfolding. In 1975 a pregnant woman is imprisoned in an institute with no means of escape. I won’t say too much more about that now, but you’ll find out what is happening at the Institute and how it ties to Jack and Taylor on the run.
I really enjoyed the sort of Dan-Brown-feel to this thriller. Themes of faith, historical artifacts, hidden treasure, and conspiracies are all driving the plot. Add in a male and female duo who are working with key people while on the run to help them uncover the truth, and you have a fun and fast read that will definitely have you stepping out of whatever is going on in life and enjoying the ride!
As with most thrillers, this is a bit over the top and that’s really what makes it fun. Expect some subtle (and some less subtle) commentary on politics, morality, religion, and the dark side to power. The storyline in 1975 is truly captivating in my opinion. There’s a character in the present storyline that we meet who probably helped lead my favorite section of the book (not going to say which because I don’t want to spoil it).
All-in-all a fun and intense thriller that promises to be the start of a great series about our leading male, Jack Logan!
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.
Told in the past and present, The Network features investigative journalist Jack Logan who receives a surprise visit from a US Senator at his apartment telling him that he needs Jack’s help and he thinks he will be murdered. He asks Jack to take an envelope and a garage remote, to find his wife Taylor, and to bring Taylor to see a man named Jeremy.
To make things even more complex, Jack and Taylor know one another. They actually grew up together and Jack loved Taylor, but something happened between them that ruined their trust in one another. When an alert comes through about the Senator, Jack knows he must find Taylor and help save her. When he arrives, it becomes clear that they only way to uncover what is going on is to evade whoever is chasing them.
Meanwhile, an alternate storyline in the past is unfolding. In 1975 a pregnant woman is imprisoned in an institute with no means of escape. I won’t say too much more about that now, but you’ll find out what is happening at the Institute and how it ties to Jack and Taylor on the run.
I really enjoyed the sort of Dan-Brown-feel to this thriller. Themes of faith, historical artifacts, hidden treasure, and conspiracies are all driving the plot. Add in a male and female duo who are working with key people while on the run to help them uncover the truth, and you have a fun and fast read that will definitely have you stepping out of whatever is going on in life and enjoying the ride!
As with most thrillers, this is a bit over the top and that’s really what makes it fun. Expect some subtle (and some less subtle) commentary on politics, morality, religion, and the dark side to power. The storyline in 1975 is truly captivating in my opinion. There’s a character in the present storyline that we meet who probably helped lead my favorite section of the book (not going to say which because I don’t want to spoil it).
All-in-all a fun and intense thriller that promises to be the start of a great series about our leading male, Jack Logan!
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.
August 12, 2019
At first I thought "It's a real formulaic thriller" then "Is it a parody of a thriller?", then "Oh she's gone Dan Brown on us with the biblical coins" then "Is this Christian fiction?" Every "good" character finds their faith and the bad characters don't have any religion. AND by bad, I mean sadistic, evil, out to destroy the world characters. I guess since, I'm not religious the author would group me with the world destroyers.
I like books with religious characters. It can really enhance the character development, but don't try to sell me a thriller than make it Christian fiction.
I like books with religious characters. It can really enhance the character development, but don't try to sell me a thriller than make it Christian fiction.
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May 24, 2020
July 1, 2019
If I could give it 10 stars, I would. This was an exceptional thriller from start to finish and a model for what a good book should be. It stayed just within the realm of reality as to be believable while stretching the reader's expectations for the genre in so many ways. Unless I am mistaken, this seems like book 1 in a future series and I will absolutely be awaiting the next.
December 16, 2019
Book one in the Jack Logan series was action packed and just what this physiological thriller lover, loves to read. I love it when the action is from beginning to end.
I love to be kept guessing and this book did just that.
I can not wait for the next book in this series.
This is a 4.5 star book, and I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
I love to be kept guessing and this book did just that.
I can not wait for the next book in this series.
This is a 4.5 star book, and I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
January 7, 2020
What a book. I do not give out many one stars but this book deserved-it worked hard at it. The only good part about this book was that it has a fast pace to it. If a thriller is going to be good it has to be believed to a degree-this one simply can not be. The idea of a murdered Senator and a reporter sound good but the rest of the story was over the top bad bad bad. The characters were very flat, the dialogue was very bad at times and I just read it to see how bad the story could get. The ending was very bad and there were other scenes best guess twenty that would make your eyes role. Run for the hills do not give this book a spin life is too short.
March 29, 2019
Kudos to L.C Shaw, Author in weaving the intense, captivating , suspenseful, and intriguing plot and the characters in this Psychological Thriller and Mystery. BE WARNED: I suggest that you don’t attempt to read this before you go to sleep. There are hauntingly vivid descriptions of horrific activity and planning. There are twists, turns, adventures, and the chase for life or death. The author describes her characters as complex and complicated. There are betrayals, conspiracy, secrets, and deaths. There is corruption, fights for power, deception, control over every government and scientific agency and social media. . There is a fight over good and evil, and questions of morality and the believes in God. Who are these people, and what are their goals for humanity? Who can you trust? Who is whom they say they are? How can this be stopped? How and who can stop this? There is a question of certain coins from Greece that have caused the death of certain people. Why are these coins so special.? U.S. Senator Malcom Phillips seeks out journalist Jack Logan, with a request to protect the Senator’s wife, Taylor and uncover the truth, before he is killed. After the Senator’s death, Jack and Taylor discover something so huge and frightening , they find they do not know who they can trust? How can they be safe? I would highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy pychological thrillers, adventure, and suspense. Happy Reading!!!
February 22, 2020
Right wing diatribe masquerading as a thriller.
December 17, 2019
Thank you to Harper Collins and Suzy Approved Book Tours for my gifted copy of this book. Well this was a wild ride!! Buckle up before you start reading this one! This was a fast paced thriller with car chases, murder, politics, corruption, and some shades of the DaVinci Code thrown in. A US Senator unexpectedly shows up at Jack Logan’s door and tells him a wild story. Malcolm insists that he knows he will soon be murdered and begs Jack to take care of his wife after he’s gone. Sure enough Malcolm is killed and Jack has to convince his ex girlfriend, now Malcolm’s widow, that they have to follow Malcolm’s dying wishes for her safety. This is where the mayhem really ensures. As Jack and Taylor are on the run they have no idea who or what they can trust. What follows is a multi layered story that keeps you guessing even if you think you know where it’s heading. This is the first in a series and I’m interested to hear what is next for Jack and Taylor - because we know something will be happening. Overall I found this book very engaging and I thought the plot twists were great. I don’t want to give away too many details so I will leave it here. Fun Fact. L.C. Shaw is one half of the writing duo of Liv Constantine. This should peak your interest in the book even more.
May 28, 2020
Now this is a thriller! Hard to put down, lots of twists and turns in the storyline, murder, corruption, secrets and an evil plot to change the world. Thriller, like I said.
There is a plot to bring down morality and religion as we know it. The United States Government has been tainted from within since World War II and the evil of that time is about to return in the open and no longer behind the closed doors of monstrous powerful men.
I enjoyed this book that just moved along so quickly and had interesting and somewhat frightening characters. Okay, so there is a bit of romance but that more or less falls to the wayside because our main protagonists, Jack and Taylor have to save the world first!
Jack and Taylor have a history which has left Taylor loathing Jack and here he is at her home telling her that he needs to protect her and her unborn child from some very bad people with whom her late husband was involved. Her husband had visited Jack and left him with instructions and a letter for her. She doesn’t believe him until the very bad people arrive at her house.
I like a fast moving thriller and this was exactly the type of book I really enjoy reading. The author created a frightening storyline with lots of action and an underlying theme of Good vs. Evil.
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway. Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers and the author L.C. Shaw.
There is a plot to bring down morality and religion as we know it. The United States Government has been tainted from within since World War II and the evil of that time is about to return in the open and no longer behind the closed doors of monstrous powerful men.
I enjoyed this book that just moved along so quickly and had interesting and somewhat frightening characters. Okay, so there is a bit of romance but that more or less falls to the wayside because our main protagonists, Jack and Taylor have to save the world first!
Jack and Taylor have a history which has left Taylor loathing Jack and here he is at her home telling her that he needs to protect her and her unborn child from some very bad people with whom her late husband was involved. Her husband had visited Jack and left him with instructions and a letter for her. She doesn’t believe him until the very bad people arrive at her house.
I like a fast moving thriller and this was exactly the type of book I really enjoy reading. The author created a frightening storyline with lots of action and an underlying theme of Good vs. Evil.
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway. Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers and the author L.C. Shaw.
August 7, 2020
Amazing and a very original thriller book. Wonderful with the ending even more shocking than the beginning of the novel. Well done!
You can read the synopsis and the plot for yourselves, but, it is that and more of what you think it will be.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Network by L.C. Shaw.
You can read the synopsis and the plot for yourselves, but, it is that and more of what you think it will be.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Network by L.C. Shaw.
January 10, 2020
Well that was unique!! Twists and turns, good vs evil! At first I thought this was going to be a straight talk run of the mill thriller but it evolved into so much more. A touch of Dan Brown in there for sure. Left me wanting more of this story and it’s characters
April 22, 2021
A bit far-fetched but a creative mystery nonetheless....looking forward to the next in the series.
February 22, 2017
Jack Logan was contacted by US Senator Malcolm Phillips who incidentally dies soon after in what seems like an accident. Now Jack has a single clue to follow up on and find out what exactly is going on. At the same time it is very clear that Malcolm’s widow needs his protection from what seems like nameless and faceless entities. Their hunt leads them to a set of relics but they have no idea why or how it is connected to the murder of the Senator. All they know is that the relics are somehow involved and that they are being chased by a huge network of corrupt people who will do anything to get things their way. Not sure who they can trust – Jack and Taylor have to think quickly and act faster in order to outrun these people. Will they succeed?
Both Jack and Taylor are very much likeable characters. I enjoyed watching them develop through the pages. The author has done an excellent job with bringing them to life. I have to admit though, the pace seemed to lag a bit here and there, but never enough to actually make me want to put it down. The plot is that of age old good vs evil and though it may feel clichéd, the parallel story lines keep you immersed in it. The antagonist does have this larger than life feel and at a point it feels like everyone is against Jack and Taylor. It helps keep a reader’s interest as we genuinely want to find out who is on which side and how far the antagonists will go.
Overall, this book makes for an interesting thriller whose pages are filled with action and intrigue. I would gladly recommend this to thriller enthusiasts.
Both Jack and Taylor are very much likeable characters. I enjoyed watching them develop through the pages. The author has done an excellent job with bringing them to life. I have to admit though, the pace seemed to lag a bit here and there, but never enough to actually make me want to put it down. The plot is that of age old good vs evil and though it may feel clichéd, the parallel story lines keep you immersed in it. The antagonist does have this larger than life feel and at a point it feels like everyone is against Jack and Taylor. It helps keep a reader’s interest as we genuinely want to find out who is on which side and how far the antagonists will go.
Overall, this book makes for an interesting thriller whose pages are filled with action and intrigue. I would gladly recommend this to thriller enthusiasts.
October 13, 2016
Set neatly at the crux between political thriller and religious fantasy, The Veritas Deception opens when a US senator arrives at the door of Jack Logan, journalist, claiming that he’s about to be assassinated. Jack, a character who has clearly lived in interesting times, is skeptical, but sends out feelers to keep track of that particular politician—just in case. When the man turns up dead less than a week later, Jack realises that he may be the only one who can unravel the events leading to the senator’s death, and almost certainly the only person able to keep the senator’s widow, Jack’s childhood girlfriend, from falling prey to the same fate. However, even Jack doesn’t realise how far down the rabbit hole this mystery may require him to go...
The book is well-written, with a complex, twisty plot. Events from the Nazi era combined with Christian mythology have far-reaching effects in modern-day US politics, resulting in a web of crooked politicians, corporations on the take, and assassinations, with each new page unveiling new connections. Jack Logan, the protagonist, is a strong anti-hero type, with the kind of background that can best be described as chequered. I, personally, found that the insistence that divorce and the pro-choice movements were instigated by Nazis escapees to bring down humanity was enough to turn me off towards the end of the book, but nonetheless Lynne Constantine's story-telling ability and technical skill definitely earnt this book its four stars. Fast-paced and cohesive, this book will appeal to fans of Indiana Jones and classic thrillers.
The book is well-written, with a complex, twisty plot. Events from the Nazi era combined with Christian mythology have far-reaching effects in modern-day US politics, resulting in a web of crooked politicians, corporations on the take, and assassinations, with each new page unveiling new connections. Jack Logan, the protagonist, is a strong anti-hero type, with the kind of background that can best be described as chequered. I, personally, found that the insistence that divorce and the pro-choice movements were instigated by Nazis escapees to bring down humanity was enough to turn me off towards the end of the book, but nonetheless Lynne Constantine's story-telling ability and technical skill definitely earnt this book its four stars. Fast-paced and cohesive, this book will appeal to fans of Indiana Jones and classic thrillers.
March 29, 2019
THIS is an incredible read! Wonderfully spun threads of colorful stories that twisted me into knots to the very end. I love this kind of read! It keeps me on my toes. More than gratifying. Exceptional.
December 31, 2019
3.5 stars rounding up to 4 because Goodreads doesn't believe in half stars. ;)
So many things with this read! This is pretty action packed - starts off strong and continues without much hiccup. A U.S. Senator found dead. His wife's ex sent to protect her because now she's in danger too. They have a past and are on a course to find someone named Jeremy who can shed some light on everything. Enter evil man Crosse and the Institute that has its hands in so many parts of this world - trying to dictate it in one certain trajectory.
I was having a ton of fun with this book. The only real issue I have is the clear line between good and evil when I think there are always shades of gray. Also I wasn't expecting a bit of faith/religious tones to be brought into this, which kind of put me off since I'm not a particularly religious person... What started with one feel of the story went a bit of a different direction I wasn't quite expecting. But there also were certain things that seemed standard and you could see where certain parts were coming. I felt myself nodding as I was checking the thriller boxes.
There was one scene I did clap for and I hope you know which part that is when you read this book. I'm so curious where Shaw will take these characters in the next book. Are the people they are trusting now really trustworthy? Or are they also a part of the master plan? I'm not convinced on anything except for Beau... because dogs can't be conspirators... right?
So many things with this read! This is pretty action packed - starts off strong and continues without much hiccup. A U.S. Senator found dead. His wife's ex sent to protect her because now she's in danger too. They have a past and are on a course to find someone named Jeremy who can shed some light on everything. Enter evil man Crosse and the Institute that has its hands in so many parts of this world - trying to dictate it in one certain trajectory.
I was having a ton of fun with this book. The only real issue I have is the clear line between good and evil when I think there are always shades of gray. Also I wasn't expecting a bit of faith/religious tones to be brought into this, which kind of put me off since I'm not a particularly religious person... What started with one feel of the story went a bit of a different direction I wasn't quite expecting. But there also were certain things that seemed standard and you could see where certain parts were coming. I felt myself nodding as I was checking the thriller boxes.
There was one scene I did clap for and I hope you know which part that is when you read this book. I'm so curious where Shaw will take these characters in the next book. Are the people they are trusting now really trustworthy? Or are they also a part of the master plan? I'm not convinced on anything except for Beau... because dogs can't be conspirators... right?
October 10, 2020
Attention thriller fans!!
You all want to read this action packed, page turning thriller. We have a mix of historical, religious and political aspects here which always makes an interesting read. The Dan Brown fan in me loved to read this mix. The extent of corruption and evil is appalling. The plot twist at the end took me by surprise. I immediately wanted to read the second book.
You all want to read this action packed, page turning thriller. We have a mix of historical, religious and political aspects here which always makes an interesting read. The Dan Brown fan in me loved to read this mix. The extent of corruption and evil is appalling. The plot twist at the end took me by surprise. I immediately wanted to read the second book.
December 14, 2019
“The Network”
Written by L.C. Shaw
Reviewed by Diana Iozzia
“The Network” was a highly disappointing read, due to the many tropes of novels in the political thriller and psychological thriller subgenres. After truly loving “The Last Mrs. Parrish” by Lynne and Valerie Constantine of the pen name, Liv Constantine, I had been disappointed by their second thriller, “The Last Time I Saw You”. L.C. Shaw is an additional pen name, created by Lynne Constantine. I had been interested to try out this novel, to see how it would compare.
Unfortunately, “The Network” encompasses so many tired trends from the thriller genre, including big evil corporations called “The Institution”, two main characters that used to love each other, evil corporate villains who want to rid the world of sin, and disinteresting main characters.
Jack Logan is an investigative reporter, who is tasked with hiding his ex-girlfriend, whose senator husband has just been murdered. Taylor, the wife, is pregnant with complications that require her to take certain medication and have as much bed rest as possible, which makes their situation all the more complex. We learn about their previous relationship which is eerily similar to another perspective, of Maya. Maya had been taken in by a super secretive and scientific institute, ruled by the power-hungry and righteous Damon Crosse, who has impregnated her illegally. He holds her hostage in the corporation, to help him take over the world.
As the story continues, we learn more about Maya’s unfortunate scenario and see how her parents’ relic coins with supposed powers tie in with Taylor’s family history. Are they connected?
Very early on, it can be quite predictable to see how this story is progressing. I found myself rolling my eyes at certain dialogue, especially with scenes involving sex. Also, can a dog be trained to bite into a neck artery and kill a bad guy? That was a question no one had ever asked or thought, “Wow, that must be included in a action thriller.
Personally, I felt very disengaged from the story. I never felt connected with any of the characters. I was very surprised to see that this may be the first in an action / political thriller series, with Jack starring as the lead character. He’s not an offensive character, but I certainly would not continue onto the rest of the series. The writing feels incredibly immature, which combines with “The Last Time I Saw You”, makes me wonder if I would still love “The Last Mrs. Parrish” as much as I did when I initially read.
Due to my true disappointment for the story, I cannot recommend it. If you love big, bad government corporations that want to take over the world, I recommend “Recursion” by Blake Crouch instead, which has very realistic science fiction and well-written characters. I was disappointed with the story turning out into more of a Dan Brown / religious conspiracy novel. Lastly, I am not sure if I will continue to read from the Constantine sisters.
I received an advance edition of this novel in exchange for reading and reviewing purposes. Thank you to Harper Collins for the opportunity.
Written by L.C. Shaw
Reviewed by Diana Iozzia
“The Network” was a highly disappointing read, due to the many tropes of novels in the political thriller and psychological thriller subgenres. After truly loving “The Last Mrs. Parrish” by Lynne and Valerie Constantine of the pen name, Liv Constantine, I had been disappointed by their second thriller, “The Last Time I Saw You”. L.C. Shaw is an additional pen name, created by Lynne Constantine. I had been interested to try out this novel, to see how it would compare.
Unfortunately, “The Network” encompasses so many tired trends from the thriller genre, including big evil corporations called “The Institution”, two main characters that used to love each other, evil corporate villains who want to rid the world of sin, and disinteresting main characters.
Jack Logan is an investigative reporter, who is tasked with hiding his ex-girlfriend, whose senator husband has just been murdered. Taylor, the wife, is pregnant with complications that require her to take certain medication and have as much bed rest as possible, which makes their situation all the more complex. We learn about their previous relationship which is eerily similar to another perspective, of Maya. Maya had been taken in by a super secretive and scientific institute, ruled by the power-hungry and righteous Damon Crosse, who has impregnated her illegally. He holds her hostage in the corporation, to help him take over the world.
As the story continues, we learn more about Maya’s unfortunate scenario and see how her parents’ relic coins with supposed powers tie in with Taylor’s family history. Are they connected?
Very early on, it can be quite predictable to see how this story is progressing. I found myself rolling my eyes at certain dialogue, especially with scenes involving sex. Also, can a dog be trained to bite into a neck artery and kill a bad guy? That was a question no one had ever asked or thought, “Wow, that must be included in a action thriller.
Personally, I felt very disengaged from the story. I never felt connected with any of the characters. I was very surprised to see that this may be the first in an action / political thriller series, with Jack starring as the lead character. He’s not an offensive character, but I certainly would not continue onto the rest of the series. The writing feels incredibly immature, which combines with “The Last Time I Saw You”, makes me wonder if I would still love “The Last Mrs. Parrish” as much as I did when I initially read.
Due to my true disappointment for the story, I cannot recommend it. If you love big, bad government corporations that want to take over the world, I recommend “Recursion” by Blake Crouch instead, which has very realistic science fiction and well-written characters. I was disappointed with the story turning out into more of a Dan Brown / religious conspiracy novel. Lastly, I am not sure if I will continue to read from the Constantine sisters.
I received an advance edition of this novel in exchange for reading and reviewing purposes. Thank you to Harper Collins for the opportunity.
September 30, 2020
I picked up this novel with childlike anticipation - eager to read a snappy thriller. And it begins in an exciting way. A US senator goes to the home of his wife’s ex lover and begs him to protect her. The senator believes that his life is in danger isn’t wrong. And so begins the action.
The novel has all the fixings for conspiracy plans, manipulative evil people, scientific corruption, media control and,, of course bad bad people. So while Jack Logan and Taylor,the woman he’s protecting, try to escape the grasp of nasty people,the novel begins change conceptually.
The second half of the novel seems to fit more into Christian fiction. In fact, I researched it to see if that was actually it’s categorization which it was not. However the book is heavily focused on the Christian faith and the notion of good and evil. I usually enjoy novels with some kind of religious mystery, but this felt a bit preachy.
I quickly discovered that this is the first in the series and so the intellectual and emotional battles will continue on. I enjoyed the first part of the novel but the second half I found contrived and not as much fun to read. There were stilted conversations riddled with clichés and that always diminishes my pleasure. Unless something dramatic changes in the plotline I don’t have any intentions of reading the second book in the series.
The novel has all the fixings for conspiracy plans, manipulative evil people, scientific corruption, media control and,, of course bad bad people. So while Jack Logan and Taylor,the woman he’s protecting, try to escape the grasp of nasty people,the novel begins change conceptually.
The second half of the novel seems to fit more into Christian fiction. In fact, I researched it to see if that was actually it’s categorization which it was not. However the book is heavily focused on the Christian faith and the notion of good and evil. I usually enjoy novels with some kind of religious mystery, but this felt a bit preachy.
I quickly discovered that this is the first in the series and so the intellectual and emotional battles will continue on. I enjoyed the first part of the novel but the second half I found contrived and not as much fun to read. There were stilted conversations riddled with clichés and that always diminishes my pleasure. Unless something dramatic changes in the plotline I don’t have any intentions of reading the second book in the series.
April 1, 2019
The Network: A Jack Logan Thriller systematically dismantled what I expected from a thriller and re-constructed my expectations into a novel that enthralled and captivated from the moment I picked it up. The story thrust me into the drama between Damon Crosse (a corrupt authority with a secret master plan) and Jack and Taylor (investigative reporters and ex-lovers united in their desire to halt Damon's efforts). Jack and Taylor's investigation and adventures bring the reader along on Shaw's wild ride that uncovers deep deception and makes it clear that things are not as they seem.
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