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J.T. Ryan #8
Crossfire: a J.T. Ryan Thriller
Face-Look is the world’s largest social media company. When that company’s president is brutally murdered, the FBI investigates. As more people are killed, former Special Forces soldier John (J.T.) Ryan and FBI Assistant Director Erin Welch are assigned to the case. Ryan and Erin delve into the mystery and begin to uncover a vast criminal conspiracy behind the murders. A conspiracy involving not just Face-Look, but also the world’s other social media and high-tech corporations. As more people are murdered, Ryan pursues the secret cabal of criminals across the USA, Japan, and Europe. The dangerous and harrowing journey takes him from the mansions of the super-rich to the gritty back streets of the criminal underworld. There he learns the ultimate goal of the secret group, known only as Viper. A goal so explosive it will cause the collapse of the American economy. Can John Ryan and Erin Welch capture the murderous criminals before they themselves are killed?
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2019
About the author
Lee Gimenez
31 books576 followersLee Gimenez is the award-winning author of 20 novels, including his highly-acclaimed J.T. Ryan series. His latest mystery thriller is The Movie Murders. Lee is a U.S. Army veteran. He was also a Finalist for the Author Academy Award, and many of his books were Featured Novels of the International Thriller Writers Association. They are The FBI MURDERS, KILLSHOT, TRIPWIRE, FIREBALL, FBI CODE RED, The MEDIA MURDERS, SKYFLASH, CROSSFIRE, and The WASHINGTON ULTIMATUM. Lee is a multi-year nominee for the Georgia Author of the Year Award. His books are available at Amazon and many other retailers in the U.S. and Internationally. You can also join him on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
August 7, 2019
Crossfire by Lee Gimenez is the latest installment of the author’s J.T. Ryan espionage series, its storyline coming from tomorrow’s headlines with breathtaking pace. Once again he is paired with FBI agent Erin Welch as they team up with the Defense Intelligence Agency to investigate a potential threat to America and its allies. The CEO of global media giant Face-Look is murdered, and the trail leads to an underground network planning to use social media as a political weapon. A shadowy organization known as Viper is found to have enormous financial resources behind them. J.T. and Erin join forces with agent Kelly O’Shea to follow the money trail, and it’s a pulse-pounding ride that suspense/thriller fans won’t forget.
Adding to the plot is Aki Tanaka, a sexy and sinister operative who joins forces with European business magnate Karl Strada. Their goal is to subvert technological corporations by use of spyware and surveillance components inserted in the latest high-tech devices. Kelly is hot on the trail, but soon finds herself in a predicament that only J.T. and Erin can resolve. The team races against time in trying to rescue Kelly before the conspirators can launch their diabolical plan.
If you haven’t checked out Lee Gimenez’ series, do yourself a favor. PIck up a copy of Crossfire and enjoy the ride.
Adding to the plot is Aki Tanaka, a sexy and sinister operative who joins forces with European business magnate Karl Strada. Their goal is to subvert technological corporations by use of spyware and surveillance components inserted in the latest high-tech devices. Kelly is hot on the trail, but soon finds herself in a predicament that only J.T. and Erin can resolve. The team races against time in trying to rescue Kelly before the conspirators can launch their diabolical plan.
If you haven’t checked out Lee Gimenez’ series, do yourself a favor. PIck up a copy of Crossfire and enjoy the ride.
July 10, 2026
As someone who reads a lot of thriller novels, I can honestly say that Crossfire is the kind of book that reminds me why I keep coming back to this genre. From the opening chapters, Lee Gimenez creates a sense of urgency that never lets up. The story wastes no time pulling readers into a dangerous investigation that grows far beyond a simple murder case, unfolding into a conspiracy with global consequences. Every chapter adds another layer of intrigue, making it incredibly difficult to stop reading.
One of the things I appreciated most was the way the author balances fast paced action with intelligent storytelling. The mystery is carefully developed, and every new revelation feels earned rather than forced. The investigation kept me guessing throughout, and just when I thought I had figured out where the story was heading, another twist completely changed the direction. That unpredictability is something I always look for in a great thriller, and this novel delivers it exceptionally well.
J.T. Ryan is the type of protagonist who feels capable without being unrealistic. His military background gives credibility to the action scenes, while his determination and sense of justice make him easy to root for. Erin Welch is equally impressive, bringing intelligence, professionalism, and strength to the investigation. Together, they make an outstanding team, and I enjoyed watching how they relied on each other's strengths while facing increasingly dangerous situations.
What makes this novel stand out from many thrillers is how relevant its central theme feels. The idea of powerful technology companies, social media influence, corporate secrets, and hidden organizations manipulating events creates a story that feels believable enough to make you wonder how much of it could actually happen. Rather than relying only on explosions and shootouts, the novel explores power, greed, and the consequences of unchecked influence in a way that adds real depth to the suspense.
The action sequences are vivid and cinematic without becoming overwhelming. Whether the story is moving through high profile corporate settings or the darker corners of the criminal world, every location feels distinct and well imagined. The international scope also gives the novel an exciting sense of scale, making the investigation feel larger than life while remaining grounded in believable stakes.
Lee Gimenez clearly understands how to maintain tension. The pacing is consistently strong, with short, engaging chapters that keep the momentum going. There are very few moments where the story slows down, and even the quieter scenes contribute to building suspense or developing the characters. It's the kind of book where you tell yourself you'll read one more chapter, only to realize you've read five.
I also appreciated how the villains were portrayed. They are intelligent, organized, and genuinely threatening, which makes every confrontation meaningful. The danger feels real because the opposition is formidable, forcing the heroes to rely on strategy as much as courage. That balance creates suspense that lasts until the very end.
Overall, Crossfire is an outstanding thriller that combines mystery, action, suspense, and timely themes into an entertaining and thought provoking read. It has memorable characters, a gripping plot, and enough twists to keep even experienced thriller readers engaged. If you enjoy intelligent crime fiction with international intrigue, high stakes, and relentless suspense, this book is absolutely worth your time. Lee Gimenez has crafted a thriller that is both exciting and relevant, and it left me eager to read more of the J.T. Ryan series.
One of the things I appreciated most was the way the author balances fast paced action with intelligent storytelling. The mystery is carefully developed, and every new revelation feels earned rather than forced. The investigation kept me guessing throughout, and just when I thought I had figured out where the story was heading, another twist completely changed the direction. That unpredictability is something I always look for in a great thriller, and this novel delivers it exceptionally well.
J.T. Ryan is the type of protagonist who feels capable without being unrealistic. His military background gives credibility to the action scenes, while his determination and sense of justice make him easy to root for. Erin Welch is equally impressive, bringing intelligence, professionalism, and strength to the investigation. Together, they make an outstanding team, and I enjoyed watching how they relied on each other's strengths while facing increasingly dangerous situations.
What makes this novel stand out from many thrillers is how relevant its central theme feels. The idea of powerful technology companies, social media influence, corporate secrets, and hidden organizations manipulating events creates a story that feels believable enough to make you wonder how much of it could actually happen. Rather than relying only on explosions and shootouts, the novel explores power, greed, and the consequences of unchecked influence in a way that adds real depth to the suspense.
The action sequences are vivid and cinematic without becoming overwhelming. Whether the story is moving through high profile corporate settings or the darker corners of the criminal world, every location feels distinct and well imagined. The international scope also gives the novel an exciting sense of scale, making the investigation feel larger than life while remaining grounded in believable stakes.
Lee Gimenez clearly understands how to maintain tension. The pacing is consistently strong, with short, engaging chapters that keep the momentum going. There are very few moments where the story slows down, and even the quieter scenes contribute to building suspense or developing the characters. It's the kind of book where you tell yourself you'll read one more chapter, only to realize you've read five.
I also appreciated how the villains were portrayed. They are intelligent, organized, and genuinely threatening, which makes every confrontation meaningful. The danger feels real because the opposition is formidable, forcing the heroes to rely on strategy as much as courage. That balance creates suspense that lasts until the very end.
Overall, Crossfire is an outstanding thriller that combines mystery, action, suspense, and timely themes into an entertaining and thought provoking read. It has memorable characters, a gripping plot, and enough twists to keep even experienced thriller readers engaged. If you enjoy intelligent crime fiction with international intrigue, high stakes, and relentless suspense, this book is absolutely worth your time. Lee Gimenez has crafted a thriller that is both exciting and relevant, and it left me eager to read more of the J.T. Ryan series.
July 14, 2026
**Editorial Review**
Lee Gimenez delivers another fast paced entry in the J.T. Ryan series with *Crossfire*, a globe spanning techno thriller that combines political intrigue, cybercrime, and relentless action into an entertaining page turner. Built around the murder of the president of the world's largest social media company, the novel quickly expands into a high stakes investigation that reaches far beyond a single homicide, exposing a conspiracy with potentially catastrophic consequences.
John "J.T." Ryan and FBI Assistant Director Erin Welch continue to prove why they are such an engaging investigative team. Their partnership balances military precision with investigative expertise, creating a dynamic that keeps the story grounded even as the stakes continue to escalate. Their determination, intelligence, and willingness to confront impossible odds make them compelling protagonists throughout the novel.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its timely premise. By weaving together the influence of major technology corporations, digital privacy, corporate power, and international crime, Gimenez creates a story that feels both contemporary and believable. The conspiracy unfolds at a satisfying pace, revealing new layers without sacrificing momentum, while the international settings add scale and variety to the narrative.
The action sequences are crisp and cinematic, moving effortlessly from high security corporate environments to dangerous encounters across multiple countries. Readers who appreciate thrillers driven by intelligent investigations as much as explosive action will find plenty to enjoy. Gimenez also demonstrates a talent for maintaining suspense, introducing twists that keep readers questioning the true motives behind the organization known as Viper until the closing chapters.
Beyond the action, *Crossfire* explores the growing influence of technology on modern society and raises thought provoking questions about power, information, and global security. These themes provide substance without slowing the pace, allowing the novel to remain consistently engaging from beginning to end.
Fans of international thrillers, FBI investigations, and conspiracy driven suspense will likely appreciate *Crossfire* for its ambitious scope, energetic pacing, and memorable central characters. It stands as a solid addition to the J.T. Ryan series and offers an entertaining blend of mystery, action, and contemporary intrigue that should satisfy readers looking for an intelligent, fast moving thriller.
Lee Gimenez delivers another fast paced entry in the J.T. Ryan series with *Crossfire*, a globe spanning techno thriller that combines political intrigue, cybercrime, and relentless action into an entertaining page turner. Built around the murder of the president of the world's largest social media company, the novel quickly expands into a high stakes investigation that reaches far beyond a single homicide, exposing a conspiracy with potentially catastrophic consequences.
John "J.T." Ryan and FBI Assistant Director Erin Welch continue to prove why they are such an engaging investigative team. Their partnership balances military precision with investigative expertise, creating a dynamic that keeps the story grounded even as the stakes continue to escalate. Their determination, intelligence, and willingness to confront impossible odds make them compelling protagonists throughout the novel.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its timely premise. By weaving together the influence of major technology corporations, digital privacy, corporate power, and international crime, Gimenez creates a story that feels both contemporary and believable. The conspiracy unfolds at a satisfying pace, revealing new layers without sacrificing momentum, while the international settings add scale and variety to the narrative.
The action sequences are crisp and cinematic, moving effortlessly from high security corporate environments to dangerous encounters across multiple countries. Readers who appreciate thrillers driven by intelligent investigations as much as explosive action will find plenty to enjoy. Gimenez also demonstrates a talent for maintaining suspense, introducing twists that keep readers questioning the true motives behind the organization known as Viper until the closing chapters.
Beyond the action, *Crossfire* explores the growing influence of technology on modern society and raises thought provoking questions about power, information, and global security. These themes provide substance without slowing the pace, allowing the novel to remain consistently engaging from beginning to end.
Fans of international thrillers, FBI investigations, and conspiracy driven suspense will likely appreciate *Crossfire* for its ambitious scope, energetic pacing, and memorable central characters. It stands as a solid addition to the J.T. Ryan series and offers an entertaining blend of mystery, action, and contemporary intrigue that should satisfy readers looking for an intelligent, fast moving thriller.
July 14, 2026
**Editorial Review**
*Crossfire* is an engaging techno thriller that successfully blends suspense, crime investigation, and international intrigue into a compelling narrative. Lee Gimenez crafts a story that feels relevant to today's digital world, using the influence of global technology companies as the backdrop for a fast moving conspiracy that steadily grows in scale and intensity. The novel opens with a shocking murder and quickly develops into an investigation that spans multiple countries, keeping the tension high throughout.
John "J.T." Ryan and FBI Assistant Director Erin Welch are strong central characters whose professionalism and determination drive the story forward. Their teamwork gives the investigation credibility, while the steadily unfolding mystery provides enough twists to maintain reader interest. Gimenez balances action with investigative detail, allowing the plot to develop naturally without sacrificing momentum.
The novel's greatest strength lies in its pacing. Every chapter introduces new developments that deepen the conspiracy and raise the stakes, making it difficult to predict how events will unfold. The international settings, timely themes involving technology and corporate power, and well executed suspense create an entertaining reading experience for fans of political and crime thrillers. Readers looking for a fast paced mystery with global stakes and memorable protagonists will find *Crossfire* to be a rewarding addition to the J.T. Ryan series.
*Crossfire* is an engaging techno thriller that successfully blends suspense, crime investigation, and international intrigue into a compelling narrative. Lee Gimenez crafts a story that feels relevant to today's digital world, using the influence of global technology companies as the backdrop for a fast moving conspiracy that steadily grows in scale and intensity. The novel opens with a shocking murder and quickly develops into an investigation that spans multiple countries, keeping the tension high throughout.
John "J.T." Ryan and FBI Assistant Director Erin Welch are strong central characters whose professionalism and determination drive the story forward. Their teamwork gives the investigation credibility, while the steadily unfolding mystery provides enough twists to maintain reader interest. Gimenez balances action with investigative detail, allowing the plot to develop naturally without sacrificing momentum.
The novel's greatest strength lies in its pacing. Every chapter introduces new developments that deepen the conspiracy and raise the stakes, making it difficult to predict how events will unfold. The international settings, timely themes involving technology and corporate power, and well executed suspense create an entertaining reading experience for fans of political and crime thrillers. Readers looking for a fast paced mystery with global stakes and memorable protagonists will find *Crossfire* to be a rewarding addition to the J.T. Ryan series.
May 14, 2020
Loved yet another of Lee's wonderful thrillers, but I read it in print! His diverting, rollicking themes, set in vivid exotic locales he's actually visited are a joy! Both my Darling Hubby enjoy his J.T. Ryan series & look forward to comparing notes thereof. Have his latest "The Sigma Conspiracy" on deck, can't wait to dive in, am savoring having it to read, and look so, soooo much forward to romping through his next in the series. Glad they do NOT have to be read in any particular order, though!
February 6, 2026
Good story but too repitive
Pretty good ideas in the overall storyline. Yet anyone can copy and paste a lazy way out of coming up with new descriptions. The stories like so many self published authors are all the same. If you like rereading the same stories in 16 books then JT Ryan is your guy. As for me, I am looking for new and exciting in every book.
Pretty good ideas in the overall storyline. Yet anyone can copy and paste a lazy way out of coming up with new descriptions. The stories like so many self published authors are all the same. If you like rereading the same stories in 16 books then JT Ryan is your guy. As for me, I am looking for new and exciting in every book.
August 8, 2019
As the story opens, J.T. Ryan is literally scooped up and brought back to Atlanta. He’s in the Army again working for the Defense Intelligence Agency and working for ADIC Erin Welch. Everyone wants answers fast. Someone killed the head of Face-Look, and he was just the first of the social media giants to fall.
J.T. and Erin Welch work tirelessly uncovering a super evil organization called Viper. Aki Tanaka and Karl Strada team up to rule the world through technology.
This story is a thriller, and the action never stops. It’s tough to put the book down fearing you’ll miss another exciting scene. “Crossfire” leaves you exhilarated and ready to become a crime fighter.
“Crossfire” is the latest J.T. Ryan book from Lee Gimenez. I enjoyed them all, but this one is spectacular.
J.T. and Erin Welch work tirelessly uncovering a super evil organization called Viper. Aki Tanaka and Karl Strada team up to rule the world through technology.
This story is a thriller, and the action never stops. It’s tough to put the book down fearing you’ll miss another exciting scene. “Crossfire” leaves you exhilarated and ready to become a crime fighter.
“Crossfire” is the latest J.T. Ryan book from Lee Gimenez. I enjoyed them all, but this one is spectacular.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews