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Jason Wake #1
Caribbean Wake
Heir to a billion-dollar fortune, and with two Ivy League degrees under his belt, Jason Wake had the world at his fingertips . . . and then tragedy struck.
On a cold winter morning, the promising young man could only watch as his fiancée was killed in a brutal act of terror that left fifty-seven dead. Fueled by burning passion and an incessant desire for retribution, Jason puts himself through hell at a grueling covert training facility to become one of the deadliest men on Earth.
When the ruthless terrorist group seeks innocent blood once more, the resolved American stands fearlessly in their way with one all-consuming objective: send the mass murderers to their maker, or die trying.
On a cold winter morning, the promising young man could only watch as his fiancée was killed in a brutal act of terror that left fifty-seven dead. Fueled by burning passion and an incessant desire for retribution, Jason puts himself through hell at a grueling covert training facility to become one of the deadliest men on Earth.
When the ruthless terrorist group seeks innocent blood once more, the resolved American stands fearlessly in their way with one all-consuming objective: send the mass murderers to their maker, or die trying.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2020
957 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Rief
33 books143 followersMatthew is the author of the Florida Keys Adventure Series and the Jason Wake Novels. He's always had a deep rooted love for adventure and the ocean. He loves traveling, diving, rock climbing and writing adventure novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 5, 2020
Islamic terrorists in Caribbean seemed out of place. Even though plenty of action, i just couldn't find it interesting..
October 25, 2022
Devastated after witnessing the death of his fiancé and 57 other innocent victims, Jason Wake leaves a promising post-academia life and society and undergoes grueling training at secret afacility. While unusual for a non-military person, Jason proves himself to be a determined and gifted student. He leaves the facility in search of the terrorist cell responsible for the train detonation in Paris to seek revenge and redemption. He’ll meet up along the way with Scott Cooper as they race against time to thwart a global disaster.
September 9, 2022
Exciting and dangerous
Jason Wake a hero made for this time. Adventure, danger, rakish, hero. I could not stop reading ...the plot pulled me in and I wanted more. The story realistic and troubling at the same time...almost too real...yet very possible.
Jason Wake a hero made for this time. Adventure, danger, rakish, hero. I could not stop reading ...the plot pulled me in and I wanted more. The story realistic and troubling at the same time...almost too real...yet very possible.
July 16, 2020
By the same author as Gold In The Keys. Different main character. This one is patterned after Vince Flynn's Mitch Rapp. Jason Wake lost his fiance in a terrorist bombing in Paris and has set out on a quest to eliminate all terrorists. This leads him to some islands off the coast of Venezuela. Plenty of action for a larger than life character.
Beginning of series.
Beginning of series.
November 29, 2021
Mr. Rief shows promise and with better knowledge and/or research I might actively search out his novels, but he's not there yet.
On the plus side, there was a promising beginning. There is lots of action, and some fun fighting scenes. And there were very few grammatical errors which show he's trying to do a good job.
On the negative side, there were way too many things that rang false. The first I noticed was that the main terrorist was from the Taliban. The Taliban are certainly evil in many respects, but they have NEVER been actively involved in terrorism in most of the world (a possible exception is Pakistan). Then, this terrorist is allied with ISIS. The groups hate each other.
After this faux pas, I was tuned to other errors. There were plenty. Laws of physics - don't exist. The strength of Wake's triceps is insufficient to overcome the strength of his smaller, weaker opponent's biceps. The knowledge of fighting techniques left a lot to be desired, and so on.
The characters are one-dimensional and unrealistic. Can anyone seriously believe a U.S. Senator who is an action hero? Chuck Schumer? Mitch? Cruz?
So, if you can willingly suspend disbelief, this is a fun novel. It could be fun in the way that a superhero comic is fun.
Unfortunately, once Mr. Rief made his huge initial error, I had to struggle to finish the novel.
On the plus side, there was a promising beginning. There is lots of action, and some fun fighting scenes. And there were very few grammatical errors which show he's trying to do a good job.
On the negative side, there were way too many things that rang false. The first I noticed was that the main terrorist was from the Taliban. The Taliban are certainly evil in many respects, but they have NEVER been actively involved in terrorism in most of the world (a possible exception is Pakistan). Then, this terrorist is allied with ISIS. The groups hate each other.
After this faux pas, I was tuned to other errors. There were plenty. Laws of physics - don't exist. The strength of Wake's triceps is insufficient to overcome the strength of his smaller, weaker opponent's biceps. The knowledge of fighting techniques left a lot to be desired, and so on.
The characters are one-dimensional and unrealistic. Can anyone seriously believe a U.S. Senator who is an action hero? Chuck Schumer? Mitch? Cruz?
So, if you can willingly suspend disbelief, this is a fun novel. It could be fun in the way that a superhero comic is fun.
Unfortunately, once Mr. Rief made his huge initial error, I had to struggle to finish the novel.
March 8, 2023
Well it’s better than Cap Daniel’s Chase series, but not by much
Maybe I need to read more about the business of self publishing, like is it better to publish 6 different poorly edited first drafts than write one great book. I’m sure the other reviews give the synopsis, so I will just tell you what I hated.
I doubt the author has ever been involved in a violent confrontation. His fight scenes are written lazily, and from the perspective of someone who has never done it.
The arc is lazy, having the necessary solution always just fall in their laps just in the nick of time.
The author does ZERO RESEARCH about that which he is writing. He actually wrote that a briefcase tactical nuclear device was disarmed by disconnecting a cell phone and a blasting cap. (To be clear, a blasting cap is only used for TNT, or stick shaped explosives.) and there is no way to make a nuclear device smaller than a very large suitcase that weighs about 120lbs. There was a congressional investigation about this.
All in all, I have read at least one of all these series, are all the Caribbean based series are great at making you want to Chuck it all and sail the Caribbean, but are good at the intended purpose of engaging entertainment. Every page I was distracted by the author cutting corners. With research, the narrative, creating any suspense. It was just bad.
Maybe I need to read more about the business of self publishing, like is it better to publish 6 different poorly edited first drafts than write one great book. I’m sure the other reviews give the synopsis, so I will just tell you what I hated.
I doubt the author has ever been involved in a violent confrontation. His fight scenes are written lazily, and from the perspective of someone who has never done it.
The arc is lazy, having the necessary solution always just fall in their laps just in the nick of time.
The author does ZERO RESEARCH about that which he is writing. He actually wrote that a briefcase tactical nuclear device was disarmed by disconnecting a cell phone and a blasting cap. (To be clear, a blasting cap is only used for TNT, or stick shaped explosives.) and there is no way to make a nuclear device smaller than a very large suitcase that weighs about 120lbs. There was a congressional investigation about this.
All in all, I have read at least one of all these series, are all the Caribbean based series are great at making you want to Chuck it all and sail the Caribbean, but are good at the intended purpose of engaging entertainment. Every page I was distracted by the author cutting corners. With research, the narrative, creating any suspense. It was just bad.
January 12, 2022
The protagonist, Jason Wake the son of a billionaire, is picking up his fiance at a railway terminal when the train, and unfortunately his fiancee, is blown up by a terrorist organization as it pulls into the terminal. Jason is devastated and determined to seek revenge against the terrorist. He joins a covert training camp to learn how to become one of the deadliest men on earth in an effort to track down and destroy the terrorist group. Jason's quest leads him on a mission to the Caribbean in an effort to track down the terrorist before they can destroy millions of innocent lives.
I enjoyed the story and the fast-paced action that the author, Matthew Rief, infused into the book. The characters were well developed and convincing. The book moved along quickly and it was a fast and easy read. There was loads of graphic violence throughout the story, so beware. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a thriller adventure with plenty of action and violence.
I enjoyed the story and the fast-paced action that the author, Matthew Rief, infused into the book. The characters were well developed and convincing. The book moved along quickly and it was a fast and easy read. There was loads of graphic violence throughout the story, so beware. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a thriller adventure with plenty of action and violence.
June 13, 2020
Matthew Rief is one of my favorite writers, and I have really enjoyed the Logan Dodge series -- so, when this one showed up in my "kindle unlimited" page; I just had to give it a try. I am really glad that I did! Jason Wake reminds me of another character that I read, but his motivation is revenge -- and it controls almost everything that he does. There is a believable villain, outstanding side characters -- and throw in Logan, Ange, and Scott -- and it made for an outstanding read. I enjoyed this one, and I am sure that I will add the next ones that come out in this series to my read list.
August 19, 2020
. Loving the new series
So happy to see character that I know from the Logan dodge series. I don't like to give away any plots but I will tell potential readers that they won't be let down by reading the dodge series first then finish here. Just like me, they will end up begging you to write faster because we just can't get enough of the adventure. I join the fb page so I get notified when you turn out another book. Thank you for keeping my mind occupied during the pandemic.
So happy to see character that I know from the Logan dodge series. I don't like to give away any plots but I will tell potential readers that they won't be let down by reading the dodge series first then finish here. Just like me, they will end up begging you to write faster because we just can't get enough of the adventure. I join the fb page so I get notified when you turn out another book. Thank you for keeping my mind occupied during the pandemic.
Read
June 1, 2023Did a deep dive (little pun there) and when I came up for air after reading and enjoying ALL of Matthew Rief's FLORIDA KEYS series, tackled the 1st of his CARIBBEAN series.
I really appreciated the fact that Rief's carried his characters from his KEYS series forwarded. Places you in the book before you even start reading. J
Jason Wake has a one track mind. He's out for revenge and in doing so winds up facing a major terrorist attack. Can't stop it alone so he gets Scott, Logan and Angie for backup.
Can't wait to see what's next.
I really appreciated the fact that Rief's carried his characters from his KEYS series forwarded. Places you in the book before you even start reading. J
Jason Wake has a one track mind. He's out for revenge and in doing so winds up facing a major terrorist attack. Can't stop it alone so he gets Scott, Logan and Angie for backup.
Can't wait to see what's next.
November 16, 2021
Fast, detailed, fun, dynamic
I enjoyed the fast and detailed tale of revenge and destruction against an evil and diabolical international terror group
Unfortunately, the plot was merely a rehash of countless similar tales and totally predicable - every step of the way.
Surprisingly, however, it was a quick and pleasant read.
Some of the descriptions of locations and scenery were particular good and vibrant.
I enjoyed the fast and detailed tale of revenge and destruction against an evil and diabolical international terror group
Unfortunately, the plot was merely a rehash of countless similar tales and totally predicable - every step of the way.
Surprisingly, however, it was a quick and pleasant read.
Some of the descriptions of locations and scenery were particular good and vibrant.
June 5, 2021
Good read for the Genre
Pretty much as expected, but always a few surprises. The timeline was a little sketchy as getting people from point A to B more than likely couldn’t happen that fast. Hero has more luck than I ever did. Physical recovery is abnormally fast but common with this type of character.
Pretty much as expected, but always a few surprises. The timeline was a little sketchy as getting people from point A to B more than likely couldn’t happen that fast. Hero has more luck than I ever did. Physical recovery is abnormally fast but common with this type of character.
August 14, 2021
Great Reread
Jason Wake a very interesting character...Unlike most of the books I read,does not come from a Military background . Inherenting a vast fortune from a corrupt Father gives him a rare opportunity to fight the evil and injustice in the world.Looks like I'll reread the entire series again...
Jason Wake a very interesting character...Unlike most of the books I read,does not come from a Military background . Inherenting a vast fortune from a corrupt Father gives him a rare opportunity to fight the evil and injustice in the world.Looks like I'll reread the entire series again...
November 18, 2021
Bang Bang shoot an up
A quick fun read if you totally suspend disbelief. Characters are interesting and this story is setting the stage for future adventures could get repitious but easy and A good mindless fast paced work.The author has good possibilities for future plot and character development.
A quick fun read if you totally suspend disbelief. Characters are interesting and this story is setting the stage for future adventures could get repitious but easy and A good mindless fast paced work.The author has good possibilities for future plot and character development.
November 29, 2021
Was an alright story
This was just an alright story for me as the main character was good , the book was kind of long and I have read much better espionage books .
I doubt I will read any more of this series as I don’t think it will hold my interest, as Wayne Stinnett and Cap Daniels are much better writers
This was just an alright story for me as the main character was good , the book was kind of long and I have read much better espionage books .
I doubt I will read any more of this series as I don’t think it will hold my interest, as Wayne Stinnett and Cap Daniels are much better writers
December 12, 2021
A very exciting story that will keep you in suspense until the end.
This is an exciting story with such depth and emotional, selfless actions. This is a story about the good guys. men and women who care and put their lives in danger to protect the innocent. I thourouly enjoyed this book.
This is an exciting story with such depth and emotional, selfless actions. This is a story about the good guys. men and women who care and put their lives in danger to protect the innocent. I thourouly enjoyed this book.
January 27, 2022
the book was riveting. the story kept me in suspense.
I must say Jason kept me reading because I wanted to know what next again and again. Just when it looks as if hasan is going to win then Jason and Scott throw him a curveball. All who help Jason and Scott is a formative team. I’ll recommend this book to anyone who love suspense. Thank you
I must say Jason kept me reading because I wanted to know what next again and again. Just when it looks as if hasan is going to win then Jason and Scott throw him a curveball. All who help Jason and Scott is a formative team. I’ll recommend this book to anyone who love suspense. Thank you
August 26, 2022
A very good beginning for a new series. The plot has a new twist and can carry the series a long way. Does not appear to be a formula book but one that will change with each of the new books and keep inters. For those who like the James Bond or Seal type of hero this is good but there is a wist he is neither but learns how to fight to get revenge.
September 30, 2022
Reif begins a solid mystery series introducing Jason Wake.
Tragedy launches Jason on a mission to ‘make things right’. He tracks the jihadist across the Caribbean, is joined by a couple unlikely partners in a U.S. Senator and two others. The character development is strong, the pace of action never slows and the ending leads to the next adventure.
Tragedy launches Jason on a mission to ‘make things right’. He tracks the jihadist across the Caribbean, is joined by a couple unlikely partners in a U.S. Senator and two others. The character development is strong, the pace of action never slows and the ending leads to the next adventure.
Read
March 1, 2023Caribbean adventure suspense
Enjoyed it enough to get the next in the series. It may or may not hook me for the rest of the series. That said I am looking forward to the second one. I enjoyed the characters it introduced. I found and read this one while on vacation in Curacao. Which added to the excitement of it.
Enjoyed it enough to get the next in the series. It may or may not hook me for the rest of the series. That said I am looking forward to the second one. I enjoyed the characters it introduced. I found and read this one while on vacation in Curacao. Which added to the excitement of it.
May 8, 2023
Pretty generic action novel. Jason Wake was an academic who saw his fiancee killed in a terrorist attack in Paris. So he joined a secret organization who taught him to fight, and vowed revenge. He tracks the terrorists across the Caribbean and gets help from some of his friends along the way. Some good action scenes but also a lot of deus ex machina. Some excellent descriptions of the Caribbean and island life, but generic Middle Eastern terrorists as the bad guys. It's the first in a series, but the book doesn't actually spend much time talking about Jason's training, as a way of setting up future books.
January 3, 2024
Caribbean Wake
Fast paced and exciting. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride! The good guys won. Of course, they did.
The female characters were few but had a significant role in furthering the story. No weak women in this book.
Note: I normally give 4 stars for a good novel, seldom 5. This book deserved 5.
Fast paced and exciting. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride! The good guys won. Of course, they did.
The female characters were few but had a significant role in furthering the story. No weak women in this book.
Note: I normally give 4 stars for a good novel, seldom 5. This book deserved 5.
July 12, 2020
I liked Jason’s absolute determination to get the training he needed to embark on his mission. The addition of familiar characters from the author’s prior books definitely enhanced the storyline. Looking forward to more from Jason Wake.
July 27, 2020
This book was a great way to start the series
Fantastic book! By inserting Logan Scott and Ange into the book made it to the bomb! Get busy and get the second book. Can't wait to read it. I was jonesing for a new series and this book fit the bill.
Fantastic book! By inserting Logan Scott and Ange into the book made it to the bomb! Get busy and get the second book. Can't wait to read it. I was jonesing for a new series and this book fit the bill.
July 31, 2020
I look forward to the next installment
I have enjoy this story writing teams a good authors or at a premium I enjoy reading because it's the only activity that I can participate in that doesn't cause my pain to increase as a result of my indiscretions as a youth
I have enjoy this story writing teams a good authors or at a premium I enjoy reading because it's the only activity that I can participate in that doesn't cause my pain to increase as a result of my indiscretions as a youth
October 9, 2020
Next please
Great story, good to see Logan and Angela back plus Scott! Waiting for next book, plus the new boat and bringing Finn and Alahandra on board! Where they will base operation, etc. more please
Great story, good to see Logan and Angela back plus Scott! Waiting for next book, plus the new boat and bringing Finn and Alahandra on board! Where they will base operation, etc. more please
October 27, 2020
Great story!
Please hurry with follow up adventures of these guys! Talk about action, I’ve read hundreds of novels since retirement and this one caught my eye as probably the best. I sincerely hope you make a series out if it. Thank you again for a great read. GMZ
Please hurry with follow up adventures of these guys! Talk about action, I’ve read hundreds of novels since retirement and this one caught my eye as probably the best. I sincerely hope you make a series out if it. Thank you again for a great read. GMZ
November 8, 2020
Fast paced action
The story moves fast with plenty of action and explosions mixed with picturesque background. Great beach read . It has a couple of people from the Logan Dodge stories as well. Great read!!!
The story moves fast with plenty of action and explosions mixed with picturesque background. Great beach read . It has a couple of people from the Logan Dodge stories as well. Great read!!!
February 26, 2021
Awesome New Series!!!
Well developed story and characters. Love the spinoff and crossover with the Keys series!! Looking forward to more adventures with such great characters and and author that develops story lines so well!!
Well developed story and characters. Love the spinoff and crossover with the Keys series!! Looking forward to more adventures with such great characters and and author that develops story lines so well!!
March 5, 2021
Make terrorists pay
Jason Wake is driven to avenge the murder of his fiance. He takes on terrorist ISIS planning a horrific act of terror. Non stop action. Great scene setting . You meet good men fighting for freedom.
Jason Wake is driven to avenge the murder of his fiance. He takes on terrorist ISIS planning a horrific act of terror. Non stop action. Great scene setting . You meet good men fighting for freedom.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews