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The Power of Zero #1
Job Hunt
A well-armoured lone wolf.
Vigilante hacker Jack Horwood doesn't hunt pimps because he enjoys it.
Neither does he expect praise, support, or even payment.
Jack fights and lives alone, but when he arrives for a job interview and meets his former CO, his carefully constructed life goes off the rails.
A fierce protector.
Gareth Flynn looks after people, whether they're the men in his army unit, the members of the corporate security department at Nancarrow Mining, or an overcaffeinated, underfed Jack Horwood.
Gareth has waited seven years for a chance to look after Jack again.
Even if that job should come with a danger warning.
A life-changing decision.
Working together brings back memories. A snap decision changes the game.
And neither Jack nor Gareth can walk away from what they've just discovered: explosive chemistry, a tentative trust, a chance at a home and a family.
A second chance is a boon. Can they make it work, or will Jack's secrets and Gareth's need to protect destroy the family they're building?
Job Hunt is the start of an m/m action adventure suspense romance series of survival, love, revenge, and second chances.
513 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2015
88 people are currently reading
569 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Keswick
47 books137 followersJackie Keswick writes a mix of suspense, action adventure, fantasy and magical realism. She loves stories with layers, plots with twists and characters with hidden depths. She adores friends to lovers stories, tales of unexpected reunions and second chances, and men who write their own rules. She blogs about English history and food, has a thing for green eyes, and is a great believer in making up soundtracks for everything, including her characters and the cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
October 27, 2023
Perfectly paced romantic suspense
This is the first full length story which features Jack Horwood and his merry band of spies, police officers, ex-military bods and hackers and it's a doozy.
Jack's after a pimp who's offering up underage boys and he's skirting a fine line in dealing with the fall out of his own youthful experiences.
Him and Gareth are muddling along and trying to find a way of being together without all the baggage that comes along with it and Jack's having to learn how to deal with having people he might just be able to trust and rely on.
I love these books, the setting perfectly captures London in all her seedy underbelly, the Met provides a backdrop along with Jack's new place of employment and there's dodgy doings going on all over the place.
The intrigue and mystery elements are perfectly handled and the romance between Jack and Gareth sits comfortably on top. More please!
This is the first full length story which features Jack Horwood and his merry band of spies, police officers, ex-military bods and hackers and it's a doozy.
Jack's after a pimp who's offering up underage boys and he's skirting a fine line in dealing with the fall out of his own youthful experiences.
Him and Gareth are muddling along and trying to find a way of being together without all the baggage that comes along with it and Jack's having to learn how to deal with having people he might just be able to trust and rely on.
I love these books, the setting perfectly captures London in all her seedy underbelly, the Met provides a backdrop along with Jack's new place of employment and there's dodgy doings going on all over the place.
The intrigue and mystery elements are perfectly handled and the romance between Jack and Gareth sits comfortably on top. More please!
May 11, 2015
Job Hunt – Jackie Keswick
4.5 stars
M/M Mystery, Romance, Power-Control
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Jack and Flynn… where do I start? I really enjoyed this book. It made me feel so deeply at times. I really enjoyed the technology aspect and the back story of Jack. I thought that everything that was included was both necessary and integral to the story. I was glad, because often times, there is fluff, but this story did not really have that.
The mystery in this story was well planned, intriguing, not easily guessed and I can’t wait for the story to continue.
In the end, even though Jack is crazy, he is controlled and I know that makes him all that much more dangerous.
This was a story where I never knew what was going to happen and I really enjoyed that. I am someone who loves to tease out the mystery in a story and this one kept me guessing.
Readers should be warned that while this does not end in a true cliff hanger, it does lead the reader to know that more of the story is to come. So, I will wait patiently for the next installment.
4.5 stars
M/M Mystery, Romance, Power-Control
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Jack and Flynn… where do I start? I really enjoyed this book. It made me feel so deeply at times. I really enjoyed the technology aspect and the back story of Jack. I thought that everything that was included was both necessary and integral to the story. I was glad, because often times, there is fluff, but this story did not really have that.
The mystery in this story was well planned, intriguing, not easily guessed and I can’t wait for the story to continue.
In the end, even though Jack is crazy, he is controlled and I know that makes him all that much more dangerous.
This was a story where I never knew what was going to happen and I really enjoyed that. I am someone who loves to tease out the mystery in a story and this one kept me guessing.
Readers should be warned that while this does not end in a true cliff hanger, it does lead the reader to know that more of the story is to come. So, I will wait patiently for the next installment.
January 16, 2020
‘Job Hunt’ is a remarkable novel on many levels, and I am having a very hard time organizing my thoughts into something that comes close to doing it justice. From the spine-tingling tension around more than one subplot to the emotionally superintense romance between Jack and Gareth, this story is realistic, held me in its clutches from beginning to end, and still left me wanting more. There are a few aspects that stood out for me. The setting is London, so a lot of the locations, behaviors, and language were very familiar to me; Jackie Keswick did an excellent job dusting everything with a slightly British flavor. The characters, from Jack and Gareth to the supporting cast, were complicated, multi-layered, and well motivated. Each of the three primary levels of the plot alone would be enough to fill a novel each: there is corporate espionage, a criminal investigation into child trafficking, and cloak-and-dagger spy stuff that I do not believe this first installment has even come close to uncovering. But above all this is Jack’s story. His journey from a past too awful to contemplate to who he is today and how he deals with his anger, need to help others, and debilitating flashbacks is as inspiring as it is heartbreaking to watch him deal with everything life has thrown (and still throws) at him.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 27, 2023
Bello bello bello
January 17, 2016
Short version:
Explosions! Flash! Bang! (and bang-bang ;-) )Superheroes!
Great action-thriller. Read it. Period.
Longer version:
If Sherlock Holmes and Lethal Weapon’s Riggs ever had a child together, he might be something like Jack Horwood. Insane computer skills, a brilliant mind, photographic memory, chameleon-like versatility, single-minded determination, damn near clairvoyant savvy, relentless perseverance, incomparable fighting prowess, stunning beauty—Jack Horwood is a superhuman in skintight leathers, a tattooed demigod, a capeless superhero. The entire plot, the whole story of this book revolves solely around its main character, Jack, with anybody else mere props for his awesomeness. Yes, even Gareth, Jack’s supposed co-star, love interest and boss cuts a rather lackadaisical figure next to Jack.
If there weren’t anything more to this book, it would be a rather flat, trivial ode to one so-perfect-he’s-boring man.
Fortunately, there is. For one, Jack has depths and flaws; he can be ruthless, cruel and brutal to the point of bestiality once he decides a particular end justifies any means, and he’s a deeply tortured hero, a driven man, always hunted and haunted by the horrors of his past.
For another, there’s a powerful, gorgeous and steaming hot love story running parallel to and balancing the star cult around Jack. Gareth and Jack together are a thing of beauty; for these few instances, Jack isn’t the divine warrior, but a vulnerable, almost real almost human being, and I loved Gareth for making this possible.
Despite any misgivings with regard to its over-the-top-perfect main character, Job Hunt is a very well-written, fast-paced, action-packed, thrilling piece of entertainment that kept me glued to the pages.
Highly recommended to action-movie fans as well as thriller aficionados who don’t mind some blood and gore onpage.
Explosions! Flash! Bang! (and bang-bang ;-) )Superheroes!
Great action-thriller. Read it. Period.
Longer version:
If Sherlock Holmes and Lethal Weapon’s Riggs ever had a child together, he might be something like Jack Horwood. Insane computer skills, a brilliant mind, photographic memory, chameleon-like versatility, single-minded determination, damn near clairvoyant savvy, relentless perseverance, incomparable fighting prowess, stunning beauty—Jack Horwood is a superhuman in skintight leathers, a tattooed demigod, a capeless superhero. The entire plot, the whole story of this book revolves solely around its main character, Jack, with anybody else mere props for his awesomeness. Yes, even Gareth, Jack’s supposed co-star, love interest and boss cuts a rather lackadaisical figure next to Jack.
If there weren’t anything more to this book, it would be a rather flat, trivial ode to one so-perfect-he’s-boring man.
Fortunately, there is. For one, Jack has depths and flaws; he can be ruthless, cruel and brutal to the point of bestiality once he decides a particular end justifies any means, and he’s a deeply tortured hero, a driven man, always hunted and haunted by the horrors of his past.
For another, there’s a powerful, gorgeous and steaming hot love story running parallel to and balancing the star cult around Jack. Gareth and Jack together are a thing of beauty; for these few instances, Jack isn’t the divine warrior, but a vulnerable, almost real almost human being, and I loved Gareth for making this possible.
Despite any misgivings with regard to its over-the-top-perfect main character, Job Hunt is a very well-written, fast-paced, action-packed, thrilling piece of entertainment that kept me glued to the pages.
Highly recommended to action-movie fans as well as thriller aficionados who don’t mind some blood and gore onpage.
March 15, 2019
First and foremost, TRIGGERS. There's not one in the blurb, but I don't know if I missed it in the book or not. This deals a lot with abused, kidnapped, beaten children. Taken by a pimp, sold out to people. It deals with violence, flashbacks, that kind of stuff. If any of it is a trigger for you, PLEASE be careful.
For anyone else, holy shitballs. This is one HELL of a book. Damn. I'm still reeling from it. So so good.
For Jack, it's time for a new job. He's had enough of some of the crap he done in his careers and time time for a new start. But not without checking their security, of course. Being an IT whiz, Jack is able to work in and out of things before people blink sometimes. Also with being in several government agencies, unknown to him, people are trying to get him back. And not always for the best of intentions. He's worked through a ton of information and decided he wants to give Nancarrow Mining a go. When he gets there, he's in for a surprise. His old military boss and major crush, is a head there. Gareth Flynn.
Jack had decided to turn the job down, but Gareth is determined to have Jack work for him. What Jack also finds out, is there's quite a few working there that are working for the government as well. And he's not exactly happy. Gareth isn't happy because Jack keeps putting himself out there when people ask for help and it's wearing him down and pushing him into places he doesn't want to remember. Especially with this latest one where Jack is trying to catch a pimp who is kidnapping and caging kids, while beating them so bad. But Jack refuses not to help, determined to get these kids to safety. He has a chance to rescue three. Unfortunately, one doesn't make it and the other two are so terrified they won't speak to anyone but Jack. Now Jack is in a race against time to stop this sicko and many more from abusing these boys still held while trying to stop some shady stuff at the company.
The stuff in Jack’s past is still kind of a mystery. You get hints of stuff here and there, especially when he's speaking and consoling two boys he rescued and is protecting. And that past is not a pretty picture. And seeing how he runs himself ragged for things makes so much sense. I hate it because he does with so little sleep or eating, but he's determined to make things right. And I admire that so much. And I just adore him. He's worked hard to try to overcome his past. He's still not completely over it. He has flashbacks, nightmares, but he does all he can to compartmentalize so he can survive, for one, but also so we can help the next person in trouble. Usually asshole pimps and such hurting kids. He's so good at what he does. He can blend so well, you don't remember he's been there. And his computer talents lol. Damn. And after seeing stuff he's done with those computers for the good? Some is very damn funny.
What makes Jack even better though, to me anyway, is Gareth. Not in a bad way. But Gareth is that strong silent support Jack didn't even know he needed. He makes such he eats and tries to sleep. He tries to give him what he needs, even in the bedroom, to calm his mind amd chase the shadows away. Gareth is formidable is his own right. Being Jack’s boss in the military, he's no stranger to Jack and his quirks. He used to Jack's moods, even though it's been seven years. He still gets Jack.
What amazes me, though, through this whole book, is how everyone doesn't really quite know what there is to know about Jack and what his capabilities are. Gareth knows a lot, but even his closest 'friends’, if you can call them that, have no clue. That's how good Jack is.
The worst part is knowing every time Jack saves a child or goes after someone like that pimp, he has to relive his own childhood. It's heartbreaking. But because of his past, he's able to reach these kids in a way no one else can.
The story isn't just about the kids, but it is a lot of it. It also deals with corporate underhandedness and some shady things going on with employees and greedy family members. It's all a mystery to find out who and why. And as they dig, more shady people are coming out of the woodwork. Seeking Jack. And the motives are either not clear, or bad. So damn good!
http://lovebytesreviews.com
For anyone else, holy shitballs. This is one HELL of a book. Damn. I'm still reeling from it. So so good.
For Jack, it's time for a new job. He's had enough of some of the crap he done in his careers and time time for a new start. But not without checking their security, of course. Being an IT whiz, Jack is able to work in and out of things before people blink sometimes. Also with being in several government agencies, unknown to him, people are trying to get him back. And not always for the best of intentions. He's worked through a ton of information and decided he wants to give Nancarrow Mining a go. When he gets there, he's in for a surprise. His old military boss and major crush, is a head there. Gareth Flynn.
Jack had decided to turn the job down, but Gareth is determined to have Jack work for him. What Jack also finds out, is there's quite a few working there that are working for the government as well. And he's not exactly happy. Gareth isn't happy because Jack keeps putting himself out there when people ask for help and it's wearing him down and pushing him into places he doesn't want to remember. Especially with this latest one where Jack is trying to catch a pimp who is kidnapping and caging kids, while beating them so bad. But Jack refuses not to help, determined to get these kids to safety. He has a chance to rescue three. Unfortunately, one doesn't make it and the other two are so terrified they won't speak to anyone but Jack. Now Jack is in a race against time to stop this sicko and many more from abusing these boys still held while trying to stop some shady stuff at the company.
The stuff in Jack’s past is still kind of a mystery. You get hints of stuff here and there, especially when he's speaking and consoling two boys he rescued and is protecting. And that past is not a pretty picture. And seeing how he runs himself ragged for things makes so much sense. I hate it because he does with so little sleep or eating, but he's determined to make things right. And I admire that so much. And I just adore him. He's worked hard to try to overcome his past. He's still not completely over it. He has flashbacks, nightmares, but he does all he can to compartmentalize so he can survive, for one, but also so we can help the next person in trouble. Usually asshole pimps and such hurting kids. He's so good at what he does. He can blend so well, you don't remember he's been there. And his computer talents lol. Damn. And after seeing stuff he's done with those computers for the good? Some is very damn funny.
What makes Jack even better though, to me anyway, is Gareth. Not in a bad way. But Gareth is that strong silent support Jack didn't even know he needed. He makes such he eats and tries to sleep. He tries to give him what he needs, even in the bedroom, to calm his mind amd chase the shadows away. Gareth is formidable is his own right. Being Jack’s boss in the military, he's no stranger to Jack and his quirks. He used to Jack's moods, even though it's been seven years. He still gets Jack.
What amazes me, though, through this whole book, is how everyone doesn't really quite know what there is to know about Jack and what his capabilities are. Gareth knows a lot, but even his closest 'friends’, if you can call them that, have no clue. That's how good Jack is.
The worst part is knowing every time Jack saves a child or goes after someone like that pimp, he has to relive his own childhood. It's heartbreaking. But because of his past, he's able to reach these kids in a way no one else can.
The story isn't just about the kids, but it is a lot of it. It also deals with corporate underhandedness and some shady things going on with employees and greedy family members. It's all a mystery to find out who and why. And as they dig, more shady people are coming out of the woodwork. Seeking Jack. And the motives are either not clear, or bad. So damn good!
http://lovebytesreviews.com
February 27, 2016
It's more like a 2.5*
I don't know what to say about this story. It's an okay read, some parts were great but… I have the feeling that I got lost somewhere. There were two story lines happening at the same time.
I don't feel the chemistry between the MCs, not much development of their relationship, maybe they were too busy going to work and save the world.
And the ending, what was that? Not sure if I will read book 2.
I don't know what to say about this story. It's an okay read, some parts were great but… I have the feeling that I got lost somewhere. There were two story lines happening at the same time.
I don't feel the chemistry between the MCs, not much development of their relationship, maybe they were too busy going to work and save the world.
And the ending, what was that? Not sure if I will read book 2.
July 22, 2024
Giusy Lap - per RFS
.
Carissime fenici, questo romanzo è ambientato ai giorni nostri a Londra. Jack Horwood è un ragazzo dal passato turbolento, arruolato nell’esercito e nel M16. Decide di cambiare vita e manda per questo un curriculum alla Nancarow Minig, azienda di sicurezza informatica. Ma il giorno del colloquio ha una sorpresa: ritrova il suo ex comandante, Gareth Flynn. Erano diciassette anni che i due non si vedevano e tra loro c’è sempre stato qualcosa che non hanno mai osato portare alla luce del sole. Ora che sono entrambi fuori dall’esercito, possono approfondire ciò che li lega. Ma non avranno vita facile, perché Jack ha un sacco di scheletri nell’armadio, che pian piano vengono fuori, e in più deve fare i conti con un passato non ancora superato. Gareth si offrirà di dargli una mano, inducendolo ad accettare il lavoro. I due uomini si ritroveranno quindi fianco a fianco a risolvere problemi all’interno dell’azienda, scoprendo chi li sta derubando e aiutando la polizia a catturare il pappone ricercato che fa prostituire ragazzi maltrattati e torturati. Fra le indagini e il cercare di capire se possono essere una vera coppia, i protagonisti hanno da affrontare un bel po’ di difficoltà. Riusciranno a far incastrare tutti i pezzi e superare le loro paure?
Jack, ex militare dalla mente brillante, si dimostra anche un bravissimo hacker informatico, seppure segnato profondamente da un passato di violenza. Si era infatti arruolato nell’esercito per domare il suo animo, rimanendo anche dopo un lupo solitario. Quando si ritrova in mezzo alle indagini, mette tutto l’impegno tramutandolo in ossessione, finché non arriva alla soluzione. Gareth, l’ex comandante, uomo intelligente, onesto e con una gran forza, si scopre molto protettivo nei confronti di Jack, tirando così fuori un atteggiamento che aveva già ai tempi dell’esercito, seppure mai manifestato esplicitamente. Nei momenti di stress riesce a stargli accanto, a riportarlo al presente, distogliendolo dall’ossessione del caso. Lo fa mangiare o dormire, oppure gli fa capire che non può fare tutto da solo. La coppia si rivela ben assortita: uno compensa l’altro. Entrambi amano detenere il controllo, ma per il bene reciproco sono disposti a sacrificarlo, senza mai far apparire l’altro inferiore. Il romanzo è scritto in terza persona e devo confessarvi che ho fatto davvero fatica a leggerlo e capire chi stesse parlando in quel momento o di chi fossero le riflessioni. Ci sono molti dialoghi, ma non si riesce sempre bene a distinguerne i soggetti, perché si passa da un argomento all’altro oppure perché entrano nella scena personaggi che non sapevi che si trovassero lì in quel momento. In altre parole, ho trovato il tutto molto confusionario. Peccato, perché la trama non è male. In più la narrazione è lenta in alcuni punti, per cui vi confesso di aver saltato delle parti.
Fenici, troverete nel libro scene di sesso MM, linguaggio volgare, scene forti di torture e di prostituzione di minori. Aspetterò l’uscita del secondo volume, sperando che sia migliore nella narrazione e meno ingarbugliato, anche perché il romanzo conclude con un epilogo che porta a chiedere cosa dovrà ancora succederà alla coppia protagonista.
.
Carissime fenici, questo romanzo è ambientato ai giorni nostri a Londra. Jack Horwood è un ragazzo dal passato turbolento, arruolato nell’esercito e nel M16. Decide di cambiare vita e manda per questo un curriculum alla Nancarow Minig, azienda di sicurezza informatica. Ma il giorno del colloquio ha una sorpresa: ritrova il suo ex comandante, Gareth Flynn. Erano diciassette anni che i due non si vedevano e tra loro c’è sempre stato qualcosa che non hanno mai osato portare alla luce del sole. Ora che sono entrambi fuori dall’esercito, possono approfondire ciò che li lega. Ma non avranno vita facile, perché Jack ha un sacco di scheletri nell’armadio, che pian piano vengono fuori, e in più deve fare i conti con un passato non ancora superato. Gareth si offrirà di dargli una mano, inducendolo ad accettare il lavoro. I due uomini si ritroveranno quindi fianco a fianco a risolvere problemi all’interno dell’azienda, scoprendo chi li sta derubando e aiutando la polizia a catturare il pappone ricercato che fa prostituire ragazzi maltrattati e torturati. Fra le indagini e il cercare di capire se possono essere una vera coppia, i protagonisti hanno da affrontare un bel po’ di difficoltà. Riusciranno a far incastrare tutti i pezzi e superare le loro paure?
Jack, ex militare dalla mente brillante, si dimostra anche un bravissimo hacker informatico, seppure segnato profondamente da un passato di violenza. Si era infatti arruolato nell’esercito per domare il suo animo, rimanendo anche dopo un lupo solitario. Quando si ritrova in mezzo alle indagini, mette tutto l’impegno tramutandolo in ossessione, finché non arriva alla soluzione. Gareth, l’ex comandante, uomo intelligente, onesto e con una gran forza, si scopre molto protettivo nei confronti di Jack, tirando così fuori un atteggiamento che aveva già ai tempi dell’esercito, seppure mai manifestato esplicitamente. Nei momenti di stress riesce a stargli accanto, a riportarlo al presente, distogliendolo dall’ossessione del caso. Lo fa mangiare o dormire, oppure gli fa capire che non può fare tutto da solo. La coppia si rivela ben assortita: uno compensa l’altro. Entrambi amano detenere il controllo, ma per il bene reciproco sono disposti a sacrificarlo, senza mai far apparire l’altro inferiore. Il romanzo è scritto in terza persona e devo confessarvi che ho fatto davvero fatica a leggerlo e capire chi stesse parlando in quel momento o di chi fossero le riflessioni. Ci sono molti dialoghi, ma non si riesce sempre bene a distinguerne i soggetti, perché si passa da un argomento all’altro oppure perché entrano nella scena personaggi che non sapevi che si trovassero lì in quel momento. In altre parole, ho trovato il tutto molto confusionario. Peccato, perché la trama non è male. In più la narrazione è lenta in alcuni punti, per cui vi confesso di aver saltato delle parti.
Fenici, troverete nel libro scene di sesso MM, linguaggio volgare, scene forti di torture e di prostituzione di minori. Aspetterò l’uscita del secondo volume, sperando che sia migliore nella narrazione e meno ingarbugliato, anche perché il romanzo conclude con un epilogo che porta a chiedere cosa dovrà ancora succederà alla coppia protagonista.
September 4, 2023
4.5 stars
Interesting plot and cast of characters. Might write a longer review when I have time!
Interesting plot and cast of characters. Might write a longer review when I have time!
October 1, 2023
4.5
Molto bello e ben fatto.
Molto bello e ben fatto.
December 17, 2021
This book was much more than I expected. It’s the author’s first novel, and I sincerely hope it’s not the last. While the blurb describes Jack’s former jobs and current plans gone awry, I wasn’t prepared for the depth to his character.
The blurb feels like Jack the Superhero. And that’s true. He’s an amazing guy who uses all of his wicked computer skills to take on the underworld of pimps, but he’s also a man needing taking care of. Enter Gareth Flynn. Or better yet, re-enter. Gareth is the man Jack fell for at the age of 17 when Gareth was his commanding officer in the military. That was many years ago, though that’s a bit unclear. This is one of my quibbles with the book: timelines. It took me some math to figure out how old Jack is, and that occurred around halfway through the book. I still don’t know how old Gareth is. This isn’t critical information, but it would be nice to know. Beyond that, there’s some confusion about how long ago Jack left the military, how long Gareth has been out, and why for both of them.
Second quibble: WHY did they each leave the military? We find out the bare bones for Jack’s departure, and we know a little about the motivation for it. For as long as this book is, there’s a lot of missing information about this as well as Gareth’s history.
Most of the book in in third person from either Jack or Gareth’s POV, and that’s a good thing. It would be hard to judge either of them through just the other’s eyes. Jack struggles with his past and his ability to share any part of himself with another. He spends so much time wrapped in his mind that it would be difficult to understand him or empathize without his POV. His feelings for Gareth are a constant struggle.
Gareth would seem way too much the caretaker and overbearing bossy guy without the in-his-head times. While he clearly respects Jack’s professional skills, he spends a lot of brain power worrying about Jack and making sure he eats and sleeps. For Jack, who has been independent since the age of 11, it feels less cared for and more smothered. Watching these two figure out how to be with the other is fun. Even better, there’s no angst. These are adult men who communicate (to the best of their abilities) with each other. Jack isn’t a talker, but he’s involved with guy determined to give them a chance.
I also enjoyed the alternate POVs in this book. It was nice to see how Jack and Gareth are perceived by others, and it made me want the stories for some of the secondary characters. I’d like a whole series set in this world.
One thing the book didn’t address was the sexuality of the characters. I found this a relief, to be honest. Jack has a lot of struggles with his past and flashbacks, but he doesn’t sit around wondering about being attracted to men. Gareth is attracted to men and women. There’s no deep discussion of this, and the author doesn’t explicitly tell the reader. Instead, we find out through reference to previous relationships and fantasy attractions. There wasn’t manufactured angst or conflict over sexuality. While that is an important part of some LGBTQ stories, it doesn’t need to be in every book. I appreciate the author leaving it out of this book, because the book already has a lot of moving parts.
My quibbles over timeline and missing information make sense for a multi-book story arc, but it’s a little frustrating for a free-standing novel. The author responded to a question on Goodreads saying there will be more books planned for these two characters. I’m looking forward to seeing the continuing story of Jack and Gareth, because this is much more of a Happy for Now kind of ending as far as the romance goes. There’s also quite a bit left hanging with the secondary characters. There’s no information currently available about sequels, but I’ll be checking back for sure.
This review was first posted on Romance Novel News.
UPDATE: Since I wrote this review, I learned the next book about Jack and Gareth will be coming out in January. Can. Not. Wait.
UPDATE 2/10/16: I reread in anticipation of GHOSTS, and it's EVEN BETTER. I read GHOSTS and now begins the countdown to HOUSE HUNT in March. Wheeeee.
The blurb feels like Jack the Superhero. And that’s true. He’s an amazing guy who uses all of his wicked computer skills to take on the underworld of pimps, but he’s also a man needing taking care of. Enter Gareth Flynn. Or better yet, re-enter. Gareth is the man Jack fell for at the age of 17 when Gareth was his commanding officer in the military. That was many years ago, though that’s a bit unclear. This is one of my quibbles with the book: timelines. It took me some math to figure out how old Jack is, and that occurred around halfway through the book. I still don’t know how old Gareth is. This isn’t critical information, but it would be nice to know. Beyond that, there’s some confusion about how long ago Jack left the military, how long Gareth has been out, and why for both of them.
Second quibble: WHY did they each leave the military? We find out the bare bones for Jack’s departure, and we know a little about the motivation for it. For as long as this book is, there’s a lot of missing information about this as well as Gareth’s history.
Most of the book in in third person from either Jack or Gareth’s POV, and that’s a good thing. It would be hard to judge either of them through just the other’s eyes. Jack struggles with his past and his ability to share any part of himself with another. He spends so much time wrapped in his mind that it would be difficult to understand him or empathize without his POV. His feelings for Gareth are a constant struggle.
Gareth would seem way too much the caretaker and overbearing bossy guy without the in-his-head times. While he clearly respects Jack’s professional skills, he spends a lot of brain power worrying about Jack and making sure he eats and sleeps. For Jack, who has been independent since the age of 11, it feels less cared for and more smothered. Watching these two figure out how to be with the other is fun. Even better, there’s no angst. These are adult men who communicate (to the best of their abilities) with each other. Jack isn’t a talker, but he’s involved with guy determined to give them a chance.
I also enjoyed the alternate POVs in this book. It was nice to see how Jack and Gareth are perceived by others, and it made me want the stories for some of the secondary characters. I’d like a whole series set in this world.
One thing the book didn’t address was the sexuality of the characters. I found this a relief, to be honest. Jack has a lot of struggles with his past and flashbacks, but he doesn’t sit around wondering about being attracted to men. Gareth is attracted to men and women. There’s no deep discussion of this, and the author doesn’t explicitly tell the reader. Instead, we find out through reference to previous relationships and fantasy attractions. There wasn’t manufactured angst or conflict over sexuality. While that is an important part of some LGBTQ stories, it doesn’t need to be in every book. I appreciate the author leaving it out of this book, because the book already has a lot of moving parts.
My quibbles over timeline and missing information make sense for a multi-book story arc, but it’s a little frustrating for a free-standing novel. The author responded to a question on Goodreads saying there will be more books planned for these two characters. I’m looking forward to seeing the continuing story of Jack and Gareth, because this is much more of a Happy for Now kind of ending as far as the romance goes. There’s also quite a bit left hanging with the secondary characters. There’s no information currently available about sequels, but I’ll be checking back for sure.
This review was first posted on Romance Novel News.
UPDATE: Since I wrote this review, I learned the next book about Jack and Gareth will be coming out in January. Can. Not. Wait.
UPDATE 2/10/16: I reread in anticipation of GHOSTS, and it's EVEN BETTER. I read GHOSTS and now begins the countdown to HOUSE HUNT in March. Wheeeee.
March 31, 2016
Jack Horwood has some unique job searching skills, and he uses his expertise to land an interview at Nancarrow Mining with Donald Frazer. Jack is a system security specialist, first and foremost, but he has other talents too. He joined the army at the young age of seventeen, became an MI6 agent after leaving the army, and now has his own personal crusade. As a young child he faced the worst type of desertion by his mother, and faced sexual abuse.
Gareth Flynn was once a CO for the military. He’s now working for Nancarrow Mining. Jack is totally shocked when Gareth walks in on his interview. It’s been eight years since he served under Gareth, and it brings back a lot of memories and mixed emotions seeing Gareth again. Little does Jack know Gareth has been searching for him.
Besides Jack using his hacking expertise to try and find the person stealing data from Nancarrow Mining, he’s on an undercover mission for the Met to try and find the pimp who is selling young boys. Jack has to face the loss of a young teen, Ricky, but Gareth has his back and helps save two more young boys, Nico and Daniel. Nico and Daniel survive their rescue, but it doesn’t give Jack the peace that he needs.
In Job Hunt, Jackie Keswick brings us a well written, double suspense thriller, with child trafficking and corporate security leaks to be solved. It’s very heavy in the technology area, but it has some fast, action packed moments too. Most of the story is about Jack and Gareth’s growing familiarity, and second chances. We find many unanswered questions between Jack and Gareth, and little by little the answers get revealed. Jack is a multifaceted character, and we get to see him make his own family with the understanding of Nico’s and Daniel’s needs. He helps Nico and Daniel realize that they are not worthless and that they can stand up for themselves. I related this to Gareth too, as he strives to show Jack that he needs someone to take care of him and not do it all himself.
There’s an abundance of characters that aren’t skimmed over. They each add to the story with their own personal lives. As I found myself getting deeper into the mystery and Jack’s undercover assignments, I wasn’t sure who to trust. One of my favorite side characters is Aidan Conrad, legal counsel for Nancarrow Mining. He seems to always be there to dispense relationship tidbits to Jack and Gareth in one way or another.
Fox Ballard did a really nice job bringing different emotions to this reading. I liked his British and Scottish accents, and I liked the light, smooth tone to Jack’s voice, which really makes him sound younger than he is. The deep gravel tone to Gareth’s voice fits that ex-military persona. And again, there’s Aidan Conrad and just an interesting tone to his voice, almost mischievous.
This was a first read/audio listen for me from Jackie Keswick and Fox Ballard, and I was not disappointed at all. I highly recommend Job Hunt if you want an excellent double thriller with a budding romance entwined.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Gareth Flynn was once a CO for the military. He’s now working for Nancarrow Mining. Jack is totally shocked when Gareth walks in on his interview. It’s been eight years since he served under Gareth, and it brings back a lot of memories and mixed emotions seeing Gareth again. Little does Jack know Gareth has been searching for him.
Besides Jack using his hacking expertise to try and find the person stealing data from Nancarrow Mining, he’s on an undercover mission for the Met to try and find the pimp who is selling young boys. Jack has to face the loss of a young teen, Ricky, but Gareth has his back and helps save two more young boys, Nico and Daniel. Nico and Daniel survive their rescue, but it doesn’t give Jack the peace that he needs.
In Job Hunt, Jackie Keswick brings us a well written, double suspense thriller, with child trafficking and corporate security leaks to be solved. It’s very heavy in the technology area, but it has some fast, action packed moments too. Most of the story is about Jack and Gareth’s growing familiarity, and second chances. We find many unanswered questions between Jack and Gareth, and little by little the answers get revealed. Jack is a multifaceted character, and we get to see him make his own family with the understanding of Nico’s and Daniel’s needs. He helps Nico and Daniel realize that they are not worthless and that they can stand up for themselves. I related this to Gareth too, as he strives to show Jack that he needs someone to take care of him and not do it all himself.
There’s an abundance of characters that aren’t skimmed over. They each add to the story with their own personal lives. As I found myself getting deeper into the mystery and Jack’s undercover assignments, I wasn’t sure who to trust. One of my favorite side characters is Aidan Conrad, legal counsel for Nancarrow Mining. He seems to always be there to dispense relationship tidbits to Jack and Gareth in one way or another.
Fox Ballard did a really nice job bringing different emotions to this reading. I liked his British and Scottish accents, and I liked the light, smooth tone to Jack’s voice, which really makes him sound younger than he is. The deep gravel tone to Gareth’s voice fits that ex-military persona. And again, there’s Aidan Conrad and just an interesting tone to his voice, almost mischievous.
This was a first read/audio listen for me from Jackie Keswick and Fox Ballard, and I was not disappointed at all. I highly recommend Job Hunt if you want an excellent double thriller with a budding romance entwined.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
January 16, 2020
‘Job Hunt’ is a remarkable novel on many levels, and I am having a very hard time organizing my thoughts into something that comes close to doing it justice. From the spine-tingling tension around more than one subplot to the emotionally superintense romance between Jack and Gareth, this story is realistic, held me in its clutches from beginning to end, and still left me wanting more. There are a few aspects that stood out for me. The setting is London, so a lot of the locations, behaviors, and language were very familiar to me; Jackie Keswick did an excellent job dusting everything with a slightly British flavor. The characters, from Jack and Gareth to the supporting cast, were complicated, multi-layered, and well motivated. Each of the three primary levels of the plot alone would be enough to fill a novel each: there is corporate espionage, a criminal investigation into child trafficking, and cloak-and-dagger spy stuff that I do not believe this first installment has even come close to uncovering. But above all this is Jack’s story. His journey from a past too awful to contemplate to who he is today and how he deals with his anger, need to help others, and debilitating flashbacks is as inspiring as it is heartbreaking to watch him deal with everything life has thrown (and still throws) at him.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 5, 2022
audiobook 2022
I love this book and with the audiobook I was reminded of how much. the audiobook was quite good but there were a lot of unnecessary breaks inbetween.
nevertheless, I absolutely recommend this
2018
wow this book was great. I am so happy I started it ... although it took me awhile to even put it on my TBR. don't know why and now I am really sorry that I waited that long.
there are so many great characters in it, I don't know where to start ... the MCs were really interesting and I loved their dynamics. I would have loved to see more of Gareth because there is a lot of open questions ... but maybe there will be more background information in the next book.
also there are a lot of secondary characters I want to read books on ... Raf and Skylar the most important.
another think, I absolutely adored is that it is situated in London. I love London and to read a book again, which plays in Europe is just great.
Loved it! can't wait to read the next book
I love this book and with the audiobook I was reminded of how much. the audiobook was quite good but there were a lot of unnecessary breaks inbetween.
nevertheless, I absolutely recommend this
2018
wow this book was great. I am so happy I started it ... although it took me awhile to even put it on my TBR. don't know why and now I am really sorry that I waited that long.
there are so many great characters in it, I don't know where to start ... the MCs were really interesting and I loved their dynamics. I would have loved to see more of Gareth because there is a lot of open questions ... but maybe there will be more background information in the next book.
also there are a lot of secondary characters I want to read books on ... Raf and Skylar the most important.
another think, I absolutely adored is that it is situated in London. I love London and to read a book again, which plays in Europe is just great.
Loved it! can't wait to read the next book
July 27, 2023
I managed to get to 45% in, but I just can't deal with this novel anymore. There is no nuance in Jack's flighty behavior, Gareth is a shallow character, and oh, why is there now another point of view character?
The author has a terrible habit of showing thoughts and emotions, but then also detailing them, and the worse habit of repeating wants and desires far too frequently. It's insulting to readers to assume we can't possibly understand without all this explaining over and over.
Ultimately, the prose is not at the level the story needed. Obviously many readers didn't mind this, so I am only warning those readers who've become more selective.
The author has a terrible habit of showing thoughts and emotions, but then also detailing them, and the worse habit of repeating wants and desires far too frequently. It's insulting to readers to assume we can't possibly understand without all this explaining over and over.
Ultimately, the prose is not at the level the story needed. Obviously many readers didn't mind this, so I am only warning those readers who've become more selective.
June 10, 2015
Golden. Deep, involved, fast-paced, dark, and disturbing. Brilliant.
Very highly recommended. Distinct, wonderfully developed characters--whom I loved, a very strong story, and harsh subject matter.
The only down part was that I thought it was going to be a lot more slow-burn on the romance (because of the blurb), so that was a bit disappointing at first, but then I understood why, and it all worked well.
An extremely good read overall. Will probably haunt my thoughts for a while to come.
P.S. What was that epilogue about? Is there going to be a sequel? o.o
Very highly recommended. Distinct, wonderfully developed characters--whom I loved, a very strong story, and harsh subject matter.
The only down part was that I thought it was going to be a lot more slow-burn on the romance (because of the blurb), so that was a bit disappointing at first, but then I understood why, and it all worked well.
An extremely good read overall. Will probably haunt my thoughts for a while to come.
P.S. What was that epilogue about? Is there going to be a sequel? o.o
Want to read
May 15, 2015The DNF isn't necessarily a bad thing. I think I wasn't in the headspace so mystery novels with their wordy explanations feel tedious right now. I think I liked this. I definitely like Jack. I don't get Gareth. Tho I feel like it's a GFY but it's not clarified... Like, at all. We spend apt of time getting to know Jack but at 60% I know only that Gareth's favorite sex fantasy is Scarlett Johanssen as Black Widow, he served s Jack, and he's bossy.
Will come back to this one day.
Will come back to this one day.
June 6, 2023
So, it's not perfect.
Confusing timeline, plot holes.
But fun, sexy, deep.
Challenge reread, bumped up a star. This series is brilliant, and all pays off by the end.
Confusing timeline, plot holes.
But fun, sexy, deep.
Challenge reread, bumped up a star. This series is brilliant, and all pays off by the end.
May 24, 2015
I suppose I should start by saying I was one of the beta-readers for this book and the author is a friend, but if you have read some of my reviews, you know I’m honest about my books so the fact that I read and reread parts of this book and enjoyed it every time should be a proof of quality ;)
Other people have probably already given the main points of the story so I won’t go there. I’m just going to write about what I love about this story, because for a mystery intertwined with a love story, it touches so many topics and it is done with elegance and respect.
First, I love Jack. I love him like I love a few precious characters, this love that lasts years, that makes me smile stupidly and get all the warm and excited feels when I read about him. He is competent but he fucks up sometimes, he has a lot of skills but isn’t one of these perfect bland characters who can do no wrong, and he never refuses to face the consequences of his acts.
Then I love Gareth, not in the same way I love Jack but as a character who grow on me, who is patient and strong (not in the physical sense of course-though he is that too- but in the way you know he will be there not matter the maelstrom you have to face), a figure of calm competence (yes competence is one of my major criteria), who has Jack’s back without trying to take charge (as he could have been tempted to as his old CO but that’s not who Gareth is) and how Gareth has as much respect for Jack than Jack has for him.
Oh and it’s a detail in all the things that would need to be said about these characters but for once we have a real bisexual character that doesn’t go from straight to gay but keeps his identity and no one is making a fuss about it.
And I love the dynamics of their relationship : how the chemistry is there and you can feel it through the pages but what is really interesting is the fact it is not the usual (and often disappointing, at least for me) formula of they met, they fell in love after overcoming obstacles thrown their way and then bye bye, you want to know more? Well too bad, the story is over. No, they have history, they knew each other in the past and neither of them made a move and now they are trying to have something but like for all relationships, things don’t work all the time, they have issues but they take time to talk about it, to listen to what the other doesn’t appreciate and look for solutions and that’s what is interesting.
This dynamic is also reflected in the way Jack’s past is handled, with a writing that shows you the horror without needing too many details and the way Gareth understands him, never shows pity but gives him space when he needs it, always asking him if things are alright and never taking anything as a yes until there has been an actual yes. They set up boundaries, without needing to spend lengthy chapters talking about it either but with a few essential conversations, because Jack trusts him and doesn’t expect him to guess everything.
The focus is not simply about how they fall in love but how they want to have an actual relationship and build something lasting in time and this takes efforts and time to be realistic.
But this story is not primarily a romance; it’s a story with suspense, with investigations and action. It’s a tale of knives that have the power to help children feel safe in the dark and a little boy who became an adult determined to help innocents. But it’s also a story about how, sometimes, you have to sacrifice a part of yourself to help for something bigger and more important than you and not lose yourself in the process, and how to find people believing in a cause and learning to trust them to let them help you.
And talking about “people”, it’s not a story only about two characters, there is a lot of characters breathing and living here, each with their skills and perfectly fleshed out and who don’t “exist” only when Jack and Gareth are around them. And that’s something t great because not only it keeps the story always interesting and dynamic but you’ll want to know more about each of these characters.
Ultimately I think, it’s a book showing you that you don’t have to be powerless, that you’ll meet people ready to help you and they will show you how to help yourself. Even if you have been repeated many many times that you’re worthless, that’s not true because not only you are not but you have the power to stand for yourself.
I think that’s the strength of the characters and the strength of the book, it teaches you to learn to trust (with discernment of course) the help offered to you but in the end, you’re strong enough to save yourself, your worth doesn’t depend on anyone and I’m thinking about Jack of course and how Rio helped him when he was a kid – and you should seriously read this story in the Kickass anthology, it’s called the Power of Zero (and you have another Jack’s story there if you’re in need of more Jack’s awesomeness. Plus this anthology is for a good cause ) - but also about Nico and Daniel who learnt this from Jack and didn’t wait helplessly for saviors who couldn’t help or didn’t know the danger was here when they were about to be kidnapped in the hospital. They acted because Jack taught them one of the most important things in life: you’re the only one able to help yourself in the end, you just need people sometimes to help you getting there.
Other people have probably already given the main points of the story so I won’t go there. I’m just going to write about what I love about this story, because for a mystery intertwined with a love story, it touches so many topics and it is done with elegance and respect.
First, I love Jack. I love him like I love a few precious characters, this love that lasts years, that makes me smile stupidly and get all the warm and excited feels when I read about him. He is competent but he fucks up sometimes, he has a lot of skills but isn’t one of these perfect bland characters who can do no wrong, and he never refuses to face the consequences of his acts.
Then I love Gareth, not in the same way I love Jack but as a character who grow on me, who is patient and strong (not in the physical sense of course-though he is that too- but in the way you know he will be there not matter the maelstrom you have to face), a figure of calm competence (yes competence is one of my major criteria), who has Jack’s back without trying to take charge (as he could have been tempted to as his old CO but that’s not who Gareth is) and how Gareth has as much respect for Jack than Jack has for him.
Oh and it’s a detail in all the things that would need to be said about these characters but for once we have a real bisexual character that doesn’t go from straight to gay but keeps his identity and no one is making a fuss about it.
And I love the dynamics of their relationship : how the chemistry is there and you can feel it through the pages but what is really interesting is the fact it is not the usual (and often disappointing, at least for me) formula of they met, they fell in love after overcoming obstacles thrown their way and then bye bye, you want to know more? Well too bad, the story is over. No, they have history, they knew each other in the past and neither of them made a move and now they are trying to have something but like for all relationships, things don’t work all the time, they have issues but they take time to talk about it, to listen to what the other doesn’t appreciate and look for solutions and that’s what is interesting.
This dynamic is also reflected in the way Jack’s past is handled, with a writing that shows you the horror without needing too many details and the way Gareth understands him, never shows pity but gives him space when he needs it, always asking him if things are alright and never taking anything as a yes until there has been an actual yes. They set up boundaries, without needing to spend lengthy chapters talking about it either but with a few essential conversations, because Jack trusts him and doesn’t expect him to guess everything.
The focus is not simply about how they fall in love but how they want to have an actual relationship and build something lasting in time and this takes efforts and time to be realistic.
But this story is not primarily a romance; it’s a story with suspense, with investigations and action. It’s a tale of knives that have the power to help children feel safe in the dark and a little boy who became an adult determined to help innocents. But it’s also a story about how, sometimes, you have to sacrifice a part of yourself to help for something bigger and more important than you and not lose yourself in the process, and how to find people believing in a cause and learning to trust them to let them help you.
And talking about “people”, it’s not a story only about two characters, there is a lot of characters breathing and living here, each with their skills and perfectly fleshed out and who don’t “exist” only when Jack and Gareth are around them. And that’s something t great because not only it keeps the story always interesting and dynamic but you’ll want to know more about each of these characters.
Ultimately I think, it’s a book showing you that you don’t have to be powerless, that you’ll meet people ready to help you and they will show you how to help yourself. Even if you have been repeated many many times that you’re worthless, that’s not true because not only you are not but you have the power to stand for yourself.
I think that’s the strength of the characters and the strength of the book, it teaches you to learn to trust (with discernment of course) the help offered to you but in the end, you’re strong enough to save yourself, your worth doesn’t depend on anyone and I’m thinking about Jack of course and how Rio helped him when he was a kid – and you should seriously read this story in the Kickass anthology, it’s called the Power of Zero (and you have another Jack’s story there if you’re in need of more Jack’s awesomeness. Plus this anthology is for a good cause ) - but also about Nico and Daniel who learnt this from Jack and didn’t wait helplessly for saviors who couldn’t help or didn’t know the danger was here when they were about to be kidnapped in the hospital. They acted because Jack taught them one of the most important things in life: you’re the only one able to help yourself in the end, you just need people sometimes to help you getting there.
April 15, 2019
Scritto benissimo, belli i personaggi, molto intrigante il setting eppure non sono riuscita a restarne completamente coinvolta. Ho fatto fatica. Molta fatica. Ho saltato le pagine. Ma il romanzo è ben impostato e sono sicura che può piacere molto a chi, contrariamente alla sottoscritta, ama storie d'azione e spionaggio.
April 30, 2021
Read for a group challenge and for some reason Amazon really blasts this on my recommendation page. So finally picked it up. This was a new author for me, so it was nice to get into a new style. I did like it, it was easy to get into, even after a couple of breaks. I liked the characters, there were so many good ones.
The relationship was pretty straight forward with Gareth not backing down and refusing to take no for an answer. The stuff with the kids made the story a lot darker. It did feel like there was something missing given the existing relationship. I liked Rio he was pretty cool. Curious about Lisa's trouble.
The relationship was pretty straight forward with Gareth not backing down and refusing to take no for an answer. The stuff with the kids made the story a lot darker. It did feel like there was something missing given the existing relationship. I liked Rio he was pretty cool. Curious about Lisa's trouble.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2020
Audiobook reviewI love being thrown into the thick of things, hitting the ground running so to speak. I think Jackie Keswick tried to do that with the beginning for this book, but didn’t quite get there, it also wasn’t in the beginning of a story. It was a strange mix of both, a mix that didn’t work for me all the way. I felt lost for a long time, wondering if I had missed a few chapters in the beginning, wondering about just about everything. That’s not a pleasant feeling. I don’t mind questioning, and trying to figure stuff out, but I don’t enjoy questioning if I missed part of the story as nothing really made sense.
That feeling kind of stayed with me throughout. I couldn’t quite get a grip on the characters or the plot, how it all tied together. Jack was an interesting and colourful character for sure, but who was he, and what did he really do? And who did he work for, himself, a company, law-enforcement all three and then some? I fully admit I couldn’t keep up all the way, heck I got lost right in the beginning and couldn’t find myself back on track and that might all be on me.
The boys broke my heart, more than anything I wanted them to find safety and happiness, to heal. And with Jack’s help they have a chance. And maybe the boys can help Jack heal as well. When it comes to Jack and Gareth we were told there was a connection between them from way back when, but I couldn’t really feel it, but maybe that becomes apparent later on in the series when they spend more time together, as it was they were too busy to save everyone to get much alone time together.
I felt like production-wise this book had a couple of issues that coloured the experience. The flow of a book is really important and how we experience it is highly individual. Fortunately, the listener can adjust the speed to fit their particular need, so in general I rarely have an issue with the speed of the narration. And that part worked well, he had a good pacing. But what didn’t work quite as well was what felt like eon long pauses between scenes and chapters. They were loong. More often than not I was thrown out of the story and more than once I had my phone up making sure the book was still on and the battery hadn’t died.
Added to that was the drums. Yes, drums. Between every chapter there was a few seconds of drumming. Now I’m all for some added sound effects where it fits – a phone ringing in the background or a slightly distorted voice when talking on the phone. It enhances the moment. But any kind of music between every chapter isn’t for me. It’s too much and pulls the listener even more from the story.
Now to the good parts. I liked listening to Fox Ballard. He lived in the moment and he was the characters. I loved that he had so many different accents he switched between; it gave it an edge. As did the slightly distorted voices for the phone calls. That worked really well for me, and I would have been a happy camper if the long pauses and the drums had been removed, but you can’t win them all.
In the end I think this book ends up on a solid three hearts for me.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
May 14, 2015
3.5 Heart Review by Amber
Jackie Keswick is a new author to me and I’m actually really glad I picked up this book. She is without a doubt and without question an amazing writer, talented and I look forward to more stories.
One thing that needs to be mentioned is this is a crime, suspense-thriller investigative story first, the romance comes way second. Obviously, I would have loved Gareth and Jack’s attraction to be the forefront because the potential there was unbelievably explosive. They had several heated moments, where they are in bed, kissing, rubbing ready to take it to the next level we all want and then there’s an interruption and they stop. I get this tact, I really do, but with these specific men, and their history and attraction going back as far as it did the start/stop was frustrating, like punishment and I didn’t feel it completely necessary.
Jack Horwood is a man on a mission. He lives his life serving and saving others. Having come from a rocky past he knows he has the ability to help and help he does. Having entered in the British Army at a young age he discovered his talents very early on. Not only can he use his body effectively as a weapon his mind is an even greater one as he discovers hacking comes easy to him. While in the service he harbors a passionate secret crush on his CO, Gareth Flynn. Knowing the superior officer/underling thing and the age difference deters him from ever mentioning his feelings to Gareth. Circumstances arise that compel Jack to leave the service and start a new life.
Silver fox Gareth has secrets of his own. He’s also harbored an insane attraction to his subordinate Jack. He’s been attracted to him for years but when Jack up and leaves the Army all Gareth’s left with is questions. Years later Gareth finds out Jack is a genius hacker and Gareth knows he could use him in the civilian company he works for, so he’s recruited.
The reunion between these two was pretty nice. The attraction is steaming under the surface and like I said earlier when they realize its mutual you want them to lose control. You want them to rip clothes off, forget sleep, forget rest, and lose themselves in each other but that doesn’t happen. And it doesn’t happen for awhile into the book and that really annoyed me. I needed that “I NEED YOU NOW! I DON’T CARE IF WE HAVEN’T EATEN IN DAYS! I DON’T CARE IF WE HAVEN’T SLEPT IN DAYS! I NEED TO LOSE MYSELF IN YOU AND THAT IS ALL THERE IS!!!” This passion never happened and I was disappointed. The sexual relationship was almost an afterthought and while they were hot together and the chemistry was there, it was lacking something for me.
Like I mentioned earlier this is more an investigative thriller book. There are man hunts, secrets, corruption, child abuse, prostitution, and death. I enjoyed where this book took me. I really was hooked and wanted to see what was going to happen next.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and anyone who really likes super suspenseful storylines will enjoy this one as well.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
Jackie Keswick is a new author to me and I’m actually really glad I picked up this book. She is without a doubt and without question an amazing writer, talented and I look forward to more stories.
One thing that needs to be mentioned is this is a crime, suspense-thriller investigative story first, the romance comes way second. Obviously, I would have loved Gareth and Jack’s attraction to be the forefront because the potential there was unbelievably explosive. They had several heated moments, where they are in bed, kissing, rubbing ready to take it to the next level we all want and then there’s an interruption and they stop. I get this tact, I really do, but with these specific men, and their history and attraction going back as far as it did the start/stop was frustrating, like punishment and I didn’t feel it completely necessary.
Jack Horwood is a man on a mission. He lives his life serving and saving others. Having come from a rocky past he knows he has the ability to help and help he does. Having entered in the British Army at a young age he discovered his talents very early on. Not only can he use his body effectively as a weapon his mind is an even greater one as he discovers hacking comes easy to him. While in the service he harbors a passionate secret crush on his CO, Gareth Flynn. Knowing the superior officer/underling thing and the age difference deters him from ever mentioning his feelings to Gareth. Circumstances arise that compel Jack to leave the service and start a new life.
Silver fox Gareth has secrets of his own. He’s also harbored an insane attraction to his subordinate Jack. He’s been attracted to him for years but when Jack up and leaves the Army all Gareth’s left with is questions. Years later Gareth finds out Jack is a genius hacker and Gareth knows he could use him in the civilian company he works for, so he’s recruited.
The reunion between these two was pretty nice. The attraction is steaming under the surface and like I said earlier when they realize its mutual you want them to lose control. You want them to rip clothes off, forget sleep, forget rest, and lose themselves in each other but that doesn’t happen. And it doesn’t happen for awhile into the book and that really annoyed me. I needed that “I NEED YOU NOW! I DON’T CARE IF WE HAVEN’T EATEN IN DAYS! I DON’T CARE IF WE HAVEN’T SLEPT IN DAYS! I NEED TO LOSE MYSELF IN YOU AND THAT IS ALL THERE IS!!!” This passion never happened and I was disappointed. The sexual relationship was almost an afterthought and while they were hot together and the chemistry was there, it was lacking something for me.
Like I mentioned earlier this is more an investigative thriller book. There are man hunts, secrets, corruption, child abuse, prostitution, and death. I enjoyed where this book took me. I really was hooked and wanted to see what was going to happen next.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and anyone who really likes super suspenseful storylines will enjoy this one as well.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
March 20, 2016
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance®****
4.25 Stars - Story Review:
Job Hunt was an action packed, suspense filled ride with great characters and a worthy cause. It played out like a great movie, but without the inevitable plot holes.
We had a sexy yet troubled main character in Jack who was highly skilled both in the field and behind a computer. We had Gareth who kept a close watch on Jack’s back and made sure he had what he needed both in the field and in bed, plus a huge cast of supporting characters each with their own stories, that rounded out the story.
Jack is the center of the story, but we get to see things from many different perspectives which added another layer of dimension to the tale. Seeing Jack from other’s points of view really helped paint a picture of the complicated man as was seeing him vulnerable in Gareth’s arms.
We get lots of intrigue and mystery searching out the bad guys. We get lots of action taking them down. There is some violence and blood and mentions of abuse, but the abuse is not in great detail. However the way it is cleverly put out there leaves so much to the imagination that it is almost worse. I found myself aching for the abused boys and for Jack.
I found the ending a bit abrupt and the romance a little lacking, but I don’t think romance was the focus of this book, Jack and the story was. The epilogue definitely leads into the next book of the series of which I want to read!
Fans of action should definitely read this book.
Narration Review:
I wasn’t sure I would like the narration at first, but as I got into it I really enjoyed Fox Ballard’s voice and his ability to do the accents. Every character had an appropriate voice and it really added to the experience. I could picture ages and well as nationalities and gender for all the players. I will definitely seek out this narrator again.
4.25 Stars - Story Review:
Job Hunt was an action packed, suspense filled ride with great characters and a worthy cause. It played out like a great movie, but without the inevitable plot holes.
We had a sexy yet troubled main character in Jack who was highly skilled both in the field and behind a computer. We had Gareth who kept a close watch on Jack’s back and made sure he had what he needed both in the field and in bed, plus a huge cast of supporting characters each with their own stories, that rounded out the story.
Jack is the center of the story, but we get to see things from many different perspectives which added another layer of dimension to the tale. Seeing Jack from other’s points of view really helped paint a picture of the complicated man as was seeing him vulnerable in Gareth’s arms.
We get lots of intrigue and mystery searching out the bad guys. We get lots of action taking them down. There is some violence and blood and mentions of abuse, but the abuse is not in great detail. However the way it is cleverly put out there leaves so much to the imagination that it is almost worse. I found myself aching for the abused boys and for Jack.
I found the ending a bit abrupt and the romance a little lacking, but I don’t think romance was the focus of this book, Jack and the story was. The epilogue definitely leads into the next book of the series of which I want to read!
Fans of action should definitely read this book.
Narration Review:
I wasn’t sure I would like the narration at first, but as I got into it I really enjoyed Fox Ballard’s voice and his ability to do the accents. Every character had an appropriate voice and it really added to the experience. I could picture ages and well as nationalities and gender for all the players. I will definitely seek out this narrator again.
June 12, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed Job Hunt from start to finish. Jack and Gareth are wonderful creations and the multi-layered plot kept me hooked. Job Hunt has everything from political intrigue and financial corruption, to a desperate, intense chase to save the young victims of a prostitution ring. And while the varying narrative threads occasionally get a bit tangled, the author’s strong voice and the well developed characters make almost every facet of this book work in the end. There were only a few times when the pacing was a bit slow and this usually seemed to occur when the action strayed away from the main characters. Job Hunt never lagged for long though and as a whole the novel really flew by and definitely left me wanting more. Occasionally it gets a little heavy on the tech jargon but the author does a decent job of breaking everything down for the reader without actually dumbing it down, something I really appreciated.
Jack and Gareth are really the beating heart of this novel and Jack especially. He is a systems security whiz (read hacker) and has been used by just about everyone for his skills. This, in addition to his ongoing, off the book, work for the police, has left him weary, cynical, and desperate for something he cannot quite bring himself to want. And then Gareth walks back into his life. Gareth who never used him and always provided the quiet, commanding support he craved. They fit together naturally and while their course is hardly smooth, the author does an excellent job of demonstrating how well they complement one another. They simply fit and while years have separated them and despite how quickly they are thrown back together, their relationship never feels forced.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed Job Hunt from start to finish. Jack and Gareth are wonderful creations and the multi-layered plot kept me hooked. Job Hunt has everything from political intrigue and financial corruption, to a desperate, intense chase to save the young victims of a prostitution ring. And while the varying narrative threads occasionally get a bit tangled, the author’s strong voice and the well developed characters make almost every facet of this book work in the end. There were only a few times when the pacing was a bit slow and this usually seemed to occur when the action strayed away from the main characters. Job Hunt never lagged for long though and as a whole the novel really flew by and definitely left me wanting more. Occasionally it gets a little heavy on the tech jargon but the author does a decent job of breaking everything down for the reader without actually dumbing it down, something I really appreciated.
Jack and Gareth are really the beating heart of this novel and Jack especially. He is a systems security whiz (read hacker) and has been used by just about everyone for his skills. This, in addition to his ongoing, off the book, work for the police, has left him weary, cynical, and desperate for something he cannot quite bring himself to want. And then Gareth walks back into his life. Gareth who never used him and always provided the quiet, commanding support he craved. They fit together naturally and while their course is hardly smooth, the author does an excellent job of demonstrating how well they complement one another. They simply fit and while years have separated them and despite how quickly they are thrown back together, their relationship never feels forced.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
May 23, 2016
1sr read 9/1/15 Awesome
This was so incredibly detailed yet so subtle in adding pieces to each character. Loved Jack. Incredibly complex, genius, troubled man, using his past to forge his present. Gareth was everything he needed. Complex and empathetic, loving Jack as the man he knew before and learning who he really is now. And they meshed so well together. They never spoke of love but you could see it building and influencing them in the best ways. Excellent secondary characters. Gripping and suspenseful plot that drew me in with the tension. Can't wait for more.
2nd read 3/5/16 still loved this. It's a very complex read and you really have to pay attention to every detail, thread and character right through the epilogue. The seemingly disparate parts of the plot line make more sense, the more you read. I also loved the way Gareth's bisexuality, or at least being involved with someone of both sexes, was handled. It's just something you learn over the course of the book. It not discussed or made into a focal point. It also isn't used to create some conflict or issue between the MC's. It just IS. In fact, you can't actually determine Jack's sexuality either. You just know that the bond they forged in the Army and the attraction they never pursued, becomes two men who mesh well, both in and out of the bedroom. It is evident that neither is a stranger to sex with men. I knew when I read this the first time, that there would be a sequel.
This was so incredibly detailed yet so subtle in adding pieces to each character. Loved Jack. Incredibly complex, genius, troubled man, using his past to forge his present. Gareth was everything he needed. Complex and empathetic, loving Jack as the man he knew before and learning who he really is now. And they meshed so well together. They never spoke of love but you could see it building and influencing them in the best ways. Excellent secondary characters. Gripping and suspenseful plot that drew me in with the tension. Can't wait for more.
2nd read 3/5/16 still loved this. It's a very complex read and you really have to pay attention to every detail, thread and character right through the epilogue. The seemingly disparate parts of the plot line make more sense, the more you read. I also loved the way Gareth's bisexuality, or at least being involved with someone of both sexes, was handled. It's just something you learn over the course of the book. It not discussed or made into a focal point. It also isn't used to create some conflict or issue between the MC's. It just IS. In fact, you can't actually determine Jack's sexuality either. You just know that the bond they forged in the Army and the attraction they never pursued, becomes two men who mesh well, both in and out of the bedroom. It is evident that neither is a stranger to sex with men. I knew when I read this the first time, that there would be a sequel.
June 21, 2016
I really enjoyed my reading of this book. Solid 4.5 star read. The story leaves you wanting to know more about Jack. Not all of his past gets explained and I feel like I've gotten just the peak into the awesomeness that is Jack Horwood. He's kicking butt and taking names and being on his watch list is a really bad idea. Heck with his computer skills he could wipe you out completely. :D
I liked the mix of venues with this story. MI-6 is involved, Scotland Yard is involved, and heck civilian companies as well. It's a playground of people. And Gareth and Jack are finding each other again and it's lovely. Of course all the child sex ring backdrop is super serious and death to the bad guys, but this story has a lot of layers of intel going on and keeping all the players straight can be a little confusing.
But Jack and Gareth work. I liked them together and I like there supporting staff. Everyone was entertaining and fleshed out. I felt for Jack and his past. Being such a loner has left him very isolated and it was interesting to see him being forced to allow other people into his bubble. I really want to see where this series will go.
I liked the mix of venues with this story. MI-6 is involved, Scotland Yard is involved, and heck civilian companies as well. It's a playground of people. And Gareth and Jack are finding each other again and it's lovely. Of course all the child sex ring backdrop is super serious and death to the bad guys, but this story has a lot of layers of intel going on and keeping all the players straight can be a little confusing.
But Jack and Gareth work. I liked them together and I like there supporting staff. Everyone was entertaining and fleshed out. I felt for Jack and his past. Being such a loner has left him very isolated and it was interesting to see him being forced to allow other people into his bubble. I really want to see where this series will go.
September 10, 2017
This is just the tip of the iceberg of Jack. We get that he's a BAMF. Besides being a great hacker, he also had a personal crusade going on. Helping kids that are in the same situation he lived through in his youth. But his past isn't fully spelled out. If this was a stand alone, it would bug me. It's not a stand alone though, so it's perfect. Now I have more incentive to read the next book. I want to know more about what makes Jack tick.
There is a lot going on in this book. Jack is in the center of it all. One moment he's using his computer skills, the next he's undercover. Kept me turning the pages.
There is a lot going on in this book. Jack is in the center of it all. One moment he's using his computer skills, the next he's undercover. Kept me turning the pages.
February 26, 2017
Dnf
All the elements of this recipe did not work for me.
All the elements of this recipe did not work for me.
August 28, 2020
Honestly this was a bit of a mess, but I didn't have to drop it, so that's something. This book is primarily about a former child-prostitute, former military, and former MI6 man with incredible computer skills who moonlights with the cops and acts as a borderline vigilante to take down pimps and rescue kids from them. So much in this book happened very quickly and with little to no explanation. From the very beginning, the book leaves you feeling like you need to hurry and catch up with the characters, with unexplained references to past events and people who never appear on the page. I decided to assume that I would understand eventually as I kept reading, and somehow I managed to keep going forward even after it became clear the author had no intention of filling in any blanks. My mantra was "I don't get it, but moving on."
So what did I like about it enough to keep reading? Well, I wasn't distracted by grammar issues, so that's always a plus. I was invested in the quest to save the child prostitutes, especially since we were introduced to some of them early in the book. I also kept hoping I'd see some nice relationship development between the MCs, but the love interest was sort of delegated to the role of booty-call sidekick to the vigilante. They had a few arguments they worked through, but I don't feel i saw anything i would consider development.
I wasn't going to read book 2, but then I saw a lot of reviews saying it was very different from this book, and I'm hopeful it will be different for the better.
Now for my venting.
Here are some of the most memorable (to me) and least spoilery examples of blanks the author never filled in.
1. The MC has a tattoo on his temple that people reference constantly. I have literally no idea what it looks like.
2. The romantic relationship between the two main characters started with no discussion between them, no showing readers what they were like together in the past to really drive home what triggered the sudden makeout session. I initially thought it was nice that the two characters know each other so well that they were on the same wavelength to the point that they didn't need to talk, but the whole book is like that and it left me dissatisfied.
3. In general, the MC is always making sudden realizations that are never really explained, so it always felt like there was a wall between me and the MC.
There were also some general plot and story elements that left me frustrated.
1. One of the MC's coworkers appears out of nowhere, having never been mentioned before in the book, and immediately starts giving relationship advice to the MC and even knowing who the other party in the relationship was. He had not witnessed the conflict as far as the author told me, so I was left going ??? And then this same man who had never been mentioned before but was suddenly everywhere gave relationship advice to the OTHER MC, with all this insight into a man whom he'd literally just met and exchanged maybe 20 words with. And I was again left going ???
2. Literally everyone and their dog is affiliated with MI6 in some way, whether explained or not, in this book, and almost all of them work at this random mining company that apparently gives its employees a great deal of free rein. Around 60% into the book, the MC says he thinks the company is sort of a shell that does legit work but also gives the MI6 operatives a front to work behind. Sure, ok, but my disbelief had already been pretty heavily triggered by this point, and it really seemed like something this suspicious supposed genius should have figured out and mentioned before then.
3. The world apparently revolves around this MC. Everyone has a different agenda, but it all seems to tie back to him, which is always somewhat annoying in books.
4. As I said, this books is about rescuing kids and taking down pimps. Except it's also about solving and taking care of a corporate espionage mystery within the company? And I just simply didn't care about that. It made the plot feel overly busy. Luckily, the MC is apparently able to set his own hours and only needs to show up to his brand new job when he isn't busy taking down pimps. And his frequent absences apparently aren't affecting his salary because he never once mentioned his income or worried about his budget in any way.
So what did I like about it enough to keep reading? Well, I wasn't distracted by grammar issues, so that's always a plus. I was invested in the quest to save the child prostitutes, especially since we were introduced to some of them early in the book. I also kept hoping I'd see some nice relationship development between the MCs, but the love interest was sort of delegated to the role of booty-call sidekick to the vigilante. They had a few arguments they worked through, but I don't feel i saw anything i would consider development.
I wasn't going to read book 2, but then I saw a lot of reviews saying it was very different from this book, and I'm hopeful it will be different for the better.
Now for my venting.
Here are some of the most memorable (to me) and least spoilery examples of blanks the author never filled in.
1. The MC has a tattoo on his temple that people reference constantly. I have literally no idea what it looks like.
2. The romantic relationship between the two main characters started with no discussion between them, no showing readers what they were like together in the past to really drive home what triggered the sudden makeout session. I initially thought it was nice that the two characters know each other so well that they were on the same wavelength to the point that they didn't need to talk, but the whole book is like that and it left me dissatisfied.
3. In general, the MC is always making sudden realizations that are never really explained, so it always felt like there was a wall between me and the MC.
There were also some general plot and story elements that left me frustrated.
1. One of the MC's coworkers appears out of nowhere, having never been mentioned before in the book, and immediately starts giving relationship advice to the MC and even knowing who the other party in the relationship was. He had not witnessed the conflict as far as the author told me, so I was left going ??? And then this same man who had never been mentioned before but was suddenly everywhere gave relationship advice to the OTHER MC, with all this insight into a man whom he'd literally just met and exchanged maybe 20 words with. And I was again left going ???
2. Literally everyone and their dog is affiliated with MI6 in some way, whether explained or not, in this book, and almost all of them work at this random mining company that apparently gives its employees a great deal of free rein. Around 60% into the book, the MC says he thinks the company is sort of a shell that does legit work but also gives the MI6 operatives a front to work behind. Sure, ok, but my disbelief had already been pretty heavily triggered by this point, and it really seemed like something this suspicious supposed genius should have figured out and mentioned before then.
3. The world apparently revolves around this MC. Everyone has a different agenda, but it all seems to tie back to him, which is always somewhat annoying in books.
4. As I said, this books is about rescuing kids and taking down pimps. Except it's also about solving and taking care of a corporate espionage mystery within the company? And I just simply didn't care about that. It made the plot feel overly busy. Luckily, the MC is apparently able to set his own hours and only needs to show up to his brand new job when he isn't busy taking down pimps. And his frequent absences apparently aren't affecting his salary because he never once mentioned his income or worried about his budget in any way.
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