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Jake Boulder #3
Past Echoes
From a #1 bestselling author, a fast, furious thriller in which Jake Boulder takes on a personal mission--and a professional killer.
Tasked with finding a beneficiary and revealing a dead woman's secret, Jake Boulder travels from Colorado to New York with his girlfriend Taylor. He also has a personal to find his estranged father. The old man may not be good for much, but he could be source of a life-saving transfusion for an ailing family member.
Once there, Boulder becomes embroiled in a web of mystery, deceit, and violence that sees him pitted against a professional assassin known only as The Mortician. Boulder will have to use every drop of his courage and cunning to survive the chaos that envelops him . . .
"A hero who is as sharp with his wits, and his tongue, as he is with his fists." --Matt Hilton, bestselling author of the Joe Hunter novels
Tasked with finding a beneficiary and revealing a dead woman's secret, Jake Boulder travels from Colorado to New York with his girlfriend Taylor. He also has a personal to find his estranged father. The old man may not be good for much, but he could be source of a life-saving transfusion for an ailing family member.
Once there, Boulder becomes embroiled in a web of mystery, deceit, and violence that sees him pitted against a professional assassin known only as The Mortician. Boulder will have to use every drop of his courage and cunning to survive the chaos that envelops him . . .
"A hero who is as sharp with his wits, and his tongue, as he is with his fists." --Matt Hilton, bestselling author of the Joe Hunter novels
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2018
155 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 2, 2018
A very entertaining thriller!!! This is the third book in a series, but the first I have read. I am definitely going to read the first two now!!
Jake Boulder is a great character, easy to like as he goes through awful moments of his past searching
for his father. The father left his mother alone with himself and a sister, never saying good -
bye or having anything to do with them as they grew up. Jake finds out that he married again, had two other children and left them also! The only reason to look for him is after having met his'brother', he finds he needs a bone marrow transplant to save his life.
The things that are brought up from the past, and continue into the present, delve deeply into his psyche. Especially after he and his girlfriend, Taylor, are dragged into one of his father's schemes! This is an intriguing story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, ready to jump at the sound of a bullet or a scream!!
I received a copy of the story from Bloodhound books and author Graham Smith, both of whom I am very thankful to and has allowed me to give you my thoughts!
Jake Boulder is a great character, easy to like as he goes through awful moments of his past searching
for his father. The father left his mother alone with himself and a sister, never saying good -
bye or having anything to do with them as they grew up. Jake finds out that he married again, had two other children and left them also! The only reason to look for him is after having met his'brother', he finds he needs a bone marrow transplant to save his life.
The things that are brought up from the past, and continue into the present, delve deeply into his psyche. Especially after he and his girlfriend, Taylor, are dragged into one of his father's schemes! This is an intriguing story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, ready to jump at the sound of a bullet or a scream!!
I received a copy of the story from Bloodhound books and author Graham Smith, both of whom I am very thankful to and has allowed me to give you my thoughts!
February 9, 2018
Tasked with finding a deceased woman’s former love in order to deliver an inheritance, Jake Boulder sets off to New York to live out her final wishes. The further into the case he gets, the more he realizes he’s putting himself – and his girlfriend Taylor – in serious danger.
Not one to say no to a challenge, Jake wants to figure out how to revel the dead woman’s secret, despite the fact that he might be putting his life at risk to do so. In the most recent installment of the Jake Boulder series, Jake has to face violence, mafia ties, an assassin…and his own father.
I’ve loved the prior two books in the Jake Boulder series, and Past Echoes was no exception. Graham Smith knows how to write fast paced, edge of your seat thrillers, so naturally, I was thrilled to be a part of the blog tour for this one!
This installment of the series is slightly different from the previous ones in the sense that the case was more personal to him. The deceased woman whose last wishes he is attempting to carry out was previously an acquaintance and someone he’d worked with in the past. The other part of the story centers around Jake finding his father who abandoned him as a child so that he can be a bone marrow donor for Jake’s half brother.
I won’t give anything away, but the case quickly becomes even more personal, so we get to see a very emotional, heated side to Jake, rather than the cold and unemotional side we’ve seen previously.
Like the previous books in the series, Past Echoes was packed with action and violence, but not in a way that felt gratuitous. If you’re interested in this book (and you should be!) you will definitely want to read this previous books before reading this one. Without the context and history of the first two books, you’ll definitely be doing yourself a disservice when reading this story.
All in all, I loved the book. If you thought Jake Boulder was intense in the past, just you wait, because the stakes are higher than ever in Past Echoes, and that’s reflected in Jake’s actions. There were a lot of “OMG!” moments in this book, and I can’t wait to see what Mr. Smith has planned for Jake in the next installment. I’d like to thank Graham Smith and Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of the book. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review.
Not one to say no to a challenge, Jake wants to figure out how to revel the dead woman’s secret, despite the fact that he might be putting his life at risk to do so. In the most recent installment of the Jake Boulder series, Jake has to face violence, mafia ties, an assassin…and his own father.
I’ve loved the prior two books in the Jake Boulder series, and Past Echoes was no exception. Graham Smith knows how to write fast paced, edge of your seat thrillers, so naturally, I was thrilled to be a part of the blog tour for this one!
This installment of the series is slightly different from the previous ones in the sense that the case was more personal to him. The deceased woman whose last wishes he is attempting to carry out was previously an acquaintance and someone he’d worked with in the past. The other part of the story centers around Jake finding his father who abandoned him as a child so that he can be a bone marrow donor for Jake’s half brother.
I won’t give anything away, but the case quickly becomes even more personal, so we get to see a very emotional, heated side to Jake, rather than the cold and unemotional side we’ve seen previously.
Like the previous books in the series, Past Echoes was packed with action and violence, but not in a way that felt gratuitous. If you’re interested in this book (and you should be!) you will definitely want to read this previous books before reading this one. Without the context and history of the first two books, you’ll definitely be doing yourself a disservice when reading this story.
All in all, I loved the book. If you thought Jake Boulder was intense in the past, just you wait, because the stakes are higher than ever in Past Echoes, and that’s reflected in Jake’s actions. There were a lot of “OMG!” moments in this book, and I can’t wait to see what Mr. Smith has planned for Jake in the next installment. I’d like to thank Graham Smith and Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of the book. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review.
October 10, 2019
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I have to say that I struggled a little with this one. This was a lot more violent than the first 2 books which I loved . It may be more me than the book but I never really got to the stage where I was dying to read the next chapter.
I still look forward to taking book 4 from my TBR in a few months.
I have to say that I struggled a little with this one. This was a lot more violent than the first 2 books which I loved . It may be more me than the book but I never really got to the stage where I was dying to read the next chapter.
I still look forward to taking book 4 from my TBR in a few months.
February 3, 2018
After reading the previous novels in the Jake Boulder series by Graham Smith (Watching the Bodies and Kindred Killers), I was thrilled to be able to read the third book, Past Echoes, as part of the blog tour for Bloodhound Books! Both of the previous novels were fast paced, suspenseful, action packed and led by brooding protagonist, Jake Boulder. Used to his drunken shenanigans and sarcastic banter, I was pleased that this novel showed us the softer, more personal side of Jake Boulder as he collides with a dead woman’s secret, his estranged father and a professional assassin.
So, first thing is first, I highly recommend reading the other two novels in the series before diving into this one. Not only are they fantastic bits of literature, but the storyline in this one directly ties into plot points from the first novels. I think it would be a little hard to follow without having that background knowledge.
I won’t go too much into the plot but there is one thing that I have said before, and I’ll say it again. I find Graham Smith’s writing to be unique like the work of Karin Slaughter. His prose is completely purposeful and done with taste; all of his graphic scenes add so much to the tone and nature of the text without being overdone or offensive. I found this to be true in Past Echoes, from shootouts to car chases, Smith lays down the action without it feeling distracting.
Overall, I found this instalment in the Jake Boulder series to be a little less action packed the prior two but I did appreciate the softer side of Boulder (mind you, he is no spring chick but more like a shark with half of it’s teeth removed- still a little bit scary but not as vicious!)
If you have not picked up this series yet, I would highly recommend adding it to your TBR pile. It does not disappoint!
So, first thing is first, I highly recommend reading the other two novels in the series before diving into this one. Not only are they fantastic bits of literature, but the storyline in this one directly ties into plot points from the first novels. I think it would be a little hard to follow without having that background knowledge.
I won’t go too much into the plot but there is one thing that I have said before, and I’ll say it again. I find Graham Smith’s writing to be unique like the work of Karin Slaughter. His prose is completely purposeful and done with taste; all of his graphic scenes add so much to the tone and nature of the text without being overdone or offensive. I found this to be true in Past Echoes, from shootouts to car chases, Smith lays down the action without it feeling distracting.
Overall, I found this instalment in the Jake Boulder series to be a little less action packed the prior two but I did appreciate the softer side of Boulder (mind you, he is no spring chick but more like a shark with half of it’s teeth removed- still a little bit scary but not as vicious!)
If you have not picked up this series yet, I would highly recommend adding it to your TBR pile. It does not disappoint!
February 5, 2018
BEST BOULDER BOOK YET!!!!
Will that do as a review? No? Ok… read on to see why…
As you should know by now, I am a big fan of action thrillers. You know the type of ones I mean; cinematic, fast paced and full of stuff going on! Graham Smith’s Jake Boulder series is a prime example of these. I have said this before, but it bears repeating. Boulder can stand up there with Lee Child’s Jack Reacher in terms of addictive-ness and the quality of the plots and writing. I will happily follow Boulder the same way I follow Reacher for as long as Graham keeps writing this series. I am a Boulder fan for life!
Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, onto my review of Past Echoes. Best one yet!!! Have I said that already LOL?! 🙂
Following on from the events of The Kindred Killers, Boulder is back in Past Echoes, doing what he does best. In this one, he has to track down a man who is the benefactor of a small fortune, but he also has to become whistleblower for a forty year old secret. Lets be honest here, it sounds a bit like trouble is a-comin’ for Jake! Not least because this secret caused a young woman to flee New York forty years ago.
Alongside all of this, Jake’s half-brother is also very ill, and needs a bone marrow transplant. Nobody is a match, except maybe one person, Jake’s estranged dad, Cameron MacDonald. Jake vows to find him to see if he is a match, and make him do one decent thing in his life for his kids.
There is quite a bit going on in Past Echoes, with the various plots in the narrative. But not once did I find myself lost, or struggling to keep up with the pace of the book. I loved how the momentum started at the beginning, and did not let up until the very end! The characters are excellent as always, there are plenty of twists and turns in the plot and the action is just top notch.
I am waiting patiently for the next book in the series now, and each one after that. And soon still isn’t soon enough, haha!
Past Echoes is a tense and thrilling read. Brilliant characters, an intricate narrative and clever denouement made this a top quality read!
Highly recommended!
Will that do as a review? No? Ok… read on to see why…
As you should know by now, I am a big fan of action thrillers. You know the type of ones I mean; cinematic, fast paced and full of stuff going on! Graham Smith’s Jake Boulder series is a prime example of these. I have said this before, but it bears repeating. Boulder can stand up there with Lee Child’s Jack Reacher in terms of addictive-ness and the quality of the plots and writing. I will happily follow Boulder the same way I follow Reacher for as long as Graham keeps writing this series. I am a Boulder fan for life!
Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, onto my review of Past Echoes. Best one yet!!! Have I said that already LOL?! 🙂
Following on from the events of The Kindred Killers, Boulder is back in Past Echoes, doing what he does best. In this one, he has to track down a man who is the benefactor of a small fortune, but he also has to become whistleblower for a forty year old secret. Lets be honest here, it sounds a bit like trouble is a-comin’ for Jake! Not least because this secret caused a young woman to flee New York forty years ago.
Alongside all of this, Jake’s half-brother is also very ill, and needs a bone marrow transplant. Nobody is a match, except maybe one person, Jake’s estranged dad, Cameron MacDonald. Jake vows to find him to see if he is a match, and make him do one decent thing in his life for his kids.
There is quite a bit going on in Past Echoes, with the various plots in the narrative. But not once did I find myself lost, or struggling to keep up with the pace of the book. I loved how the momentum started at the beginning, and did not let up until the very end! The characters are excellent as always, there are plenty of twists and turns in the plot and the action is just top notch.
I am waiting patiently for the next book in the series now, and each one after that. And soon still isn’t soon enough, haha!
Past Echoes is a tense and thrilling read. Brilliant characters, an intricate narrative and clever denouement made this a top quality read!
Highly recommended!
February 2, 2018
Those of you in the #BookWorld who know me, know that I am a HUGE fan of Graham Smith’s books – I have read every single book (including the short story/non series collections) written by this author and can say that there has not been one that I have not loved! This is the third book in the fabulous Boulder series and boy are you in for a treat! Although you don’t have to read this series from the start, I highly recommend reading Book 2- The Kindred Killers first to avoid any spoilers in this one or vice versa!
The story starts out in Casperton, Utah but the main setting is the Big Apple – New York! Within the pages, the reader is faced with loss, relationships, change, revenge, transition, resolution, uncovering the past, guilt, secrets, grief, anger, closure and perceived justice ….OMFG – you get everything and so much more!
Eeeeeek! Mr Smith has such a superb knack at upping the ante with every follow up book in a series he writes and in Past Echoes, we are on a whole new level! #BOOM! The plot is action-packed, fast-paced and believe me peeps, this story is going to tear you up and break you down! I was completely and utterly emotionally-floored after reading this book – the author has no fear of pulling out all the stops and taking the reader on an OMFG-Don’t-Do-This-To-Me kinda ride! Fans of Boulder will see a whole new side to him and will thoroughly enjoy following Boulder as he pieces the puzzle together in an attempt to ensure everyone gets the closure they need.
Now my favourite part…characters! Jake Boulder is definitely #Unleashed in Past Echoes and beware anyone who has wronged him – a full can or ten of whoop-ass is opened and there is no stopping Jake as the author has given him one hell of a dilemma to deal with. We still get a glimpse of Boulder’s fantastic humour which comes as a welcome distraction from everything else we face in this story! One thing I love about Boulder is how we see him break things down in his mind/head as he tries to find a solution the the problem(s) he faces. In this novel, he is still protective, fiercely loyal and determined – but oh-my-God, a line is crossed and we are left wondering WTAF!?
Alfonse, Ivy,Taylor and Dr Edwards have appearances too – all of these characters play a huge role in Boulder’s life and each play a part in moving this story forward – there is a real game-changer delivered and OMFG, I can’t even begin to explain what I mean by this…buy the book….you will see EXACTLY what I mean!
Cameron…Jake’s “father” – there are just NO WORDS for this narcissistic, selfish, deceitful…all the bad words you can think of…arsehole of a man (and I use the term man very loosely)- well, no nice words.. I mean his son will die and all this guy can think about is himself…what a son-of-a-…you get the picture! Whether intended or not, the author really did an exceptional job on making me dislike this character so much that I just feel sick even thinking about him. For that reason…I will leave it there…he isn’t worth any more words!
The Mortician – what a baddie! You can guess where he gets his nickname from! What happens when Jake comes face-to-face with an antagonist that leaves a trail of bodies wherever he goes….no spoilers here!
Another book I could talk about forever…I cannot tell you all the WOW, OMFG and WTAF moments because this is one book you NEED to read for yourself. I think you know this gets a massive HELL YEAH recommendation from me! One bullet CAN change everything in this provoking, dramatic, intense, heart-stopping action crime thriller! I, for one, cannot friggin wait for Book 4 …is it nearly done, Mr Smith?
I urge you to buy the whole series! (You can get all THREE for under £4!!) DO IT!
My thanks to the author for giving me the absolute pleasure of being one of the few beta readers for this book and to Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound Books for an ARC and invitation to take part in the Blog Blitz. Make sure you follow the tour and catch what everyone else thinks – I guarantee you will want to join #TeamBoulder!
The story starts out in Casperton, Utah but the main setting is the Big Apple – New York! Within the pages, the reader is faced with loss, relationships, change, revenge, transition, resolution, uncovering the past, guilt, secrets, grief, anger, closure and perceived justice ….OMFG – you get everything and so much more!
Eeeeeek! Mr Smith has such a superb knack at upping the ante with every follow up book in a series he writes and in Past Echoes, we are on a whole new level! #BOOM! The plot is action-packed, fast-paced and believe me peeps, this story is going to tear you up and break you down! I was completely and utterly emotionally-floored after reading this book – the author has no fear of pulling out all the stops and taking the reader on an OMFG-Don’t-Do-This-To-Me kinda ride! Fans of Boulder will see a whole new side to him and will thoroughly enjoy following Boulder as he pieces the puzzle together in an attempt to ensure everyone gets the closure they need.
Now my favourite part…characters! Jake Boulder is definitely #Unleashed in Past Echoes and beware anyone who has wronged him – a full can or ten of whoop-ass is opened and there is no stopping Jake as the author has given him one hell of a dilemma to deal with. We still get a glimpse of Boulder’s fantastic humour which comes as a welcome distraction from everything else we face in this story! One thing I love about Boulder is how we see him break things down in his mind/head as he tries to find a solution the the problem(s) he faces. In this novel, he is still protective, fiercely loyal and determined – but oh-my-God, a line is crossed and we are left wondering WTAF!?
Alfonse, Ivy,Taylor and Dr Edwards have appearances too – all of these characters play a huge role in Boulder’s life and each play a part in moving this story forward – there is a real game-changer delivered and OMFG, I can’t even begin to explain what I mean by this…buy the book….you will see EXACTLY what I mean!
Cameron…Jake’s “father” – there are just NO WORDS for this narcissistic, selfish, deceitful…all the bad words you can think of…arsehole of a man (and I use the term man very loosely)- well, no nice words.. I mean his son will die and all this guy can think about is himself…what a son-of-a-…you get the picture! Whether intended or not, the author really did an exceptional job on making me dislike this character so much that I just feel sick even thinking about him. For that reason…I will leave it there…he isn’t worth any more words!
The Mortician – what a baddie! You can guess where he gets his nickname from! What happens when Jake comes face-to-face with an antagonist that leaves a trail of bodies wherever he goes….no spoilers here!
Another book I could talk about forever…I cannot tell you all the WOW, OMFG and WTAF moments because this is one book you NEED to read for yourself. I think you know this gets a massive HELL YEAH recommendation from me! One bullet CAN change everything in this provoking, dramatic, intense, heart-stopping action crime thriller! I, for one, cannot friggin wait for Book 4 …is it nearly done, Mr Smith?
I urge you to buy the whole series! (You can get all THREE for under £4!!) DO IT!
My thanks to the author for giving me the absolute pleasure of being one of the few beta readers for this book and to Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound Books for an ARC and invitation to take part in the Blog Blitz. Make sure you follow the tour and catch what everyone else thinks – I guarantee you will want to join #TeamBoulder!
February 5, 2018
Past Echoes is the third book in the brilliant Jake Boulder series. Personally I would recommend reading them in order, or at least The Kindred Killers before reading Past Echoes, not just because you will get a better understanding of Jake but because they truly are great reads.
I loved Watching The Bodies and The Kindred Killers is one of my favourite books of 2017. I have to admit I was slightly worried how the author would be able to beat or match the previous books but I should have had more faith in him. What the author has given us is something that is quite different to the first two books in the series. This one is personal. Well it is when it comes to Jake.
It’s hard to say to much about the story as it really would spoil it for other readers. What I will say is that it certainly takes some surprising turns that I had not envisioned that had me constantly holding my breath. There is still plenty of action that I have personally come to love from this series but it was also more emotional than I had bargained for.
Past Echoes I think will take Jake Boulder fans by surprise and I mean that in a good way. The author really gets the readers emotions going so that we are very much invested in what is happening to Jake and he will literally have you on the edge of your seat praying for the bad guys to get their comeuppance. Brilliant!
I loved Watching The Bodies and The Kindred Killers is one of my favourite books of 2017. I have to admit I was slightly worried how the author would be able to beat or match the previous books but I should have had more faith in him. What the author has given us is something that is quite different to the first two books in the series. This one is personal. Well it is when it comes to Jake.
It’s hard to say to much about the story as it really would spoil it for other readers. What I will say is that it certainly takes some surprising turns that I had not envisioned that had me constantly holding my breath. There is still plenty of action that I have personally come to love from this series but it was also more emotional than I had bargained for.
Past Echoes I think will take Jake Boulder fans by surprise and I mean that in a good way. The author really gets the readers emotions going so that we are very much invested in what is happening to Jake and he will literally have you on the edge of your seat praying for the bad guys to get their comeuppance. Brilliant!
February 6, 2018
* insert lots of incoherent gibberish here *
Holy flying … haggis! What the fudge just happened?!
Jake Boulder receives a request from beyond the grave and his mission leads him to New York. He’s also tasked with finding his long-lost father for a life-saving transfusion. All sounds perfectly innocent, doesn’t it? Ha! Well, just sit back and watch that brown stuff hit the fan like you wouldn’t believe!
I don’t have the vocabulary to even try to explain this rollercoaster ride. I feel like I’ve just spent the last three hours stuck in the fastest spinning cycle of my washing machine. This third instalment in the Boulder series is just utterly insane and had me running a gamut of emotions. My diet went right out of the window as I stuffed my face with chocolate because the tension was just unbearable. How very much dare you, Mr Graham Smith, sir. Putting Jake and us through the wringer like that. (I kid. Please can I have some more?)
Past Echoes is by far the best one in the series yet! It’s incredibly tense and just phenomenally relentless. Don’t even think about going off to do something else once you start reading this one. You will not want to put this one down! It’ll grab you by the throat and leave you gasping for breath.
Yes, I’m fully aware I’ve not mentioned a thing about the plot. I can’t. I’m way too afraid I’ll give something away. I will say, for the first time ever, I actually liked Ivy. That made for a nice change. I love that she finally got a chance to confront her past. I loved the fights, which in my opinion would look incredible on a big movie screen. And I love an author who’s willing to mess with and mess up his main character. But other than that, my lips are sealed. Hold on to something and prepare yourself for a wild adventure.
If you’re not reading this series, … how to say this nicely? What is WRONG with you?! Do yourself a favour and pick these up and please, start at the beginning with Watching The Bodies or you’ll miss out on the full experience. I promise from the bottom of my heart you won’t regret it! #TeamBoulder
Holy flying … haggis! What the fudge just happened?!
Jake Boulder receives a request from beyond the grave and his mission leads him to New York. He’s also tasked with finding his long-lost father for a life-saving transfusion. All sounds perfectly innocent, doesn’t it? Ha! Well, just sit back and watch that brown stuff hit the fan like you wouldn’t believe!
I don’t have the vocabulary to even try to explain this rollercoaster ride. I feel like I’ve just spent the last three hours stuck in the fastest spinning cycle of my washing machine. This third instalment in the Boulder series is just utterly insane and had me running a gamut of emotions. My diet went right out of the window as I stuffed my face with chocolate because the tension was just unbearable. How very much dare you, Mr Graham Smith, sir. Putting Jake and us through the wringer like that. (I kid. Please can I have some more?)
Past Echoes is by far the best one in the series yet! It’s incredibly tense and just phenomenally relentless. Don’t even think about going off to do something else once you start reading this one. You will not want to put this one down! It’ll grab you by the throat and leave you gasping for breath.
Yes, I’m fully aware I’ve not mentioned a thing about the plot. I can’t. I’m way too afraid I’ll give something away. I will say, for the first time ever, I actually liked Ivy. That made for a nice change. I love that she finally got a chance to confront her past. I loved the fights, which in my opinion would look incredible on a big movie screen. And I love an author who’s willing to mess with and mess up his main character. But other than that, my lips are sealed. Hold on to something and prepare yourself for a wild adventure.
If you’re not reading this series, … how to say this nicely? What is WRONG with you?! Do yourself a favour and pick these up and please, start at the beginning with Watching The Bodies or you’ll miss out on the full experience. I promise from the bottom of my heart you won’t regret it! #TeamBoulder
February 4, 2018
I’m always desperate to catch up on what’s happening in Jake Boulders life as Graham Smith invariably leaves me wanting more at the end of each of his adventures! So I was straight into Past Echoes as soon as it landed on my kindle. And I wasn’t disappointed! Well, I was by the time I got to the end and realised I would now have to wait again for the next Jake Boulder book but at least I know there is one on the way!
Having found out that he has a half brother and sister during the last book, Jake now needs to find his father as he will hopefully be a match to donate bone marrow to John. But he also has a complicated quest to find a safety deposit box and solve the riddles left to track it down and reveal a dead woman’s secret. So he’s off to New York with his girlfriend Taylor to track them down but when he comes up against a professional assassin known as The Mortician plus the mafia it definitely all adds up to trouble for the intrepid Scotsman.
No one (and I mean NO ONE!!!) writes a fight scene like Graham Smith! Although I do have a little crush on the character of Jake, one of the other reasons I love these thrillers is the way his fight scenes are brought to life off the page, brilliantly described so that you can almost hear fists hitting flesh and smell the blood and sweat in the air. And there’s plenty of violent confrontations here for Jake to battle through in the search for his targets.
I was looking forward to meeting Cameron MacDonald, Jakes father, as I had an intense curiosity about this man who had abandoned his family, not once but twice, and had been married to the formidable Ivy. And I wasn’t disappointed when he appeared as he was exactly the lying, selfish waste of space I was expecting? Or was he? You will have to read this to find out! Nor was I disappointed by the intriguing character of Claire Knight, sexual predator extraordinaire who ends up helping Jake with Cameron when he calls in some favours.
It was great to see Jake out of his home setting of Casperton and back out in the wild, with his dogged determination to get his man. But there was also a real poignancy and emotion that I hadn’t seen in Jake before and that final page was an absolute killer for me!! And once again Graham Smith ended on a high, leaving me hanging onto his every word, sad to have finished yet another Jake Boulder thriller.
This is an all-involving and action packed series and if you haven’t picked it up already then you really do need to grab yourself the first two books. I guarantee that you will then be hooked enough to read this third instalment. Great characters, a fast paced narrative and an addictive storyline all add up to make this thriller a must read!
Having found out that he has a half brother and sister during the last book, Jake now needs to find his father as he will hopefully be a match to donate bone marrow to John. But he also has a complicated quest to find a safety deposit box and solve the riddles left to track it down and reveal a dead woman’s secret. So he’s off to New York with his girlfriend Taylor to track them down but when he comes up against a professional assassin known as The Mortician plus the mafia it definitely all adds up to trouble for the intrepid Scotsman.
No one (and I mean NO ONE!!!) writes a fight scene like Graham Smith! Although I do have a little crush on the character of Jake, one of the other reasons I love these thrillers is the way his fight scenes are brought to life off the page, brilliantly described so that you can almost hear fists hitting flesh and smell the blood and sweat in the air. And there’s plenty of violent confrontations here for Jake to battle through in the search for his targets.
I was looking forward to meeting Cameron MacDonald, Jakes father, as I had an intense curiosity about this man who had abandoned his family, not once but twice, and had been married to the formidable Ivy. And I wasn’t disappointed when he appeared as he was exactly the lying, selfish waste of space I was expecting? Or was he? You will have to read this to find out! Nor was I disappointed by the intriguing character of Claire Knight, sexual predator extraordinaire who ends up helping Jake with Cameron when he calls in some favours.
It was great to see Jake out of his home setting of Casperton and back out in the wild, with his dogged determination to get his man. But there was also a real poignancy and emotion that I hadn’t seen in Jake before and that final page was an absolute killer for me!! And once again Graham Smith ended on a high, leaving me hanging onto his every word, sad to have finished yet another Jake Boulder thriller.
This is an all-involving and action packed series and if you haven’t picked it up already then you really do need to grab yourself the first two books. I guarantee that you will then be hooked enough to read this third instalment. Great characters, a fast paced narrative and an addictive storyline all add up to make this thriller a must read!
February 5, 2018
I do love this Jake Boulder series his character has grown over the 3 books but they would still work very well as stand alone.
This story is slightly different in that there is a strong personal aspect to it. I like the way Jake is learning to love and that there is more to life than the fighting. His character develops in this book into a complex individual with deep feelings that are beginning to crawl their way to the surface.
It begins with the death of a dear friend who leaves a legacy to Jake in the form of a series of clues. Alongside this we have Jake's brother John who needs a bone marrow donor so as well as solving clues Jake also needs to track down his estranged father.
The book is a mix of emotions and fast paced thrilling adventures that see Jake take on the might of the mafia. A bit far-fetched you may think! Not with Jake Boulder as the star of the show and Graham Smith behind the pen. This book is a very believable scenario where one (or 2 because we mustn't forget the amazing Alfonzo) brilliant planning brain has every chance of out manoeuvring even the highest people in the mafia. Why he is provoked to do this is for you to find out.
Brilliantly written, fast paced and gripping this is Graham Smith at his very best. I am so pleased he is now working on Book 4 and I am hoping for many more in this series.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books and Netgalley for the advance copy of this book.
This story is slightly different in that there is a strong personal aspect to it. I like the way Jake is learning to love and that there is more to life than the fighting. His character develops in this book into a complex individual with deep feelings that are beginning to crawl their way to the surface.
It begins with the death of a dear friend who leaves a legacy to Jake in the form of a series of clues. Alongside this we have Jake's brother John who needs a bone marrow donor so as well as solving clues Jake also needs to track down his estranged father.
The book is a mix of emotions and fast paced thrilling adventures that see Jake take on the might of the mafia. A bit far-fetched you may think! Not with Jake Boulder as the star of the show and Graham Smith behind the pen. This book is a very believable scenario where one (or 2 because we mustn't forget the amazing Alfonzo) brilliant planning brain has every chance of out manoeuvring even the highest people in the mafia. Why he is provoked to do this is for you to find out.
Brilliantly written, fast paced and gripping this is Graham Smith at his very best. I am so pleased he is now working on Book 4 and I am hoping for many more in this series.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books and Netgalley for the advance copy of this book.
February 7, 2018
Past Echoes is a rollercoaster of a ride! It is violent and vicious and deals with dark criminals as well as organised crime; it involves a dangerous secret and puts Jake against a cold-blooded gun for hire: The Mortician
| Introduction |
Jake Boulder Thriller #3
The third Jake Boulder Thriller opens with a bang: Jake finds himself surrounded by four thugs, out to get him. Somehow, this opening scene sets the mood for the entire thriller and is characteristic of Jake Boulder’s reckless and daring behaviour in Past Echoes! It seems the four thugs were sent but by whom? More disturbing for Jake himself is, that he finds himself with a steady girlfriend now, Taylor. She will attend a wedding in New York. What are the chances Jake accompanies her? Pretty low, right?!
| Storyline |
As always, Jake is flexible and shrewd enough to get himself out of the dangerous situation with the four thugs but this time, he takes one ‘home.’ Who has given the order to attack Jake and why? Jake stoops to rather disputable measures to retrieve the information and, once again, the revenge upon Jake sterns from another alcohol-driven night. But Jake has more urgent matters to attend to as his newfound (half-)brother is very ill and the last person in the world Jake wants to track down, let alone see, proves to be the answer. And there is more: a lawyer’s appointment brings him an assignment he is unable to refuse, a task that will bring him grief and puts him in many a violent situation, even in mortal danger more than once. With the help of Alfonse, his best friend and private eye, a dab hand at finding information on the internet, Jake sets about on a path into his own past as well as even more disturbing and shocking past events past that will change his future forever… provided he survives his clash with the ruthless assassin, The Mortician, that is…
| My Thoughts |
With the third instalment of the Jake Boulder Thrillers, Graham Smith has again provided us with an action-filled, fast-paced thriller in which the events follow one another at high speed. You barely have time to pause and think, you have to keep on reading because well… Past Echoes is unputdownable! I know – that word – but seriously, I read it in two sessions, only because I had to and to me, I could not get fast enough back to Past Echoes to find out how it would end. I loved reconnecting with Jake Boulder and his best friend Alfonse but sadly, a character I have grown fond of stayed in the shadows this time. Sigh. Although this thriller ended way too soon for me, I also had mixed feelings as to the motives and actions involved but I cannot divulge too much as it would give the plot away. I will only say that to me, the last chapter was great to read! Once again Graham Smith has delivered a grim and powerful dark thriller that captivates from the first page to the last and makes you beg for the next one .. soon?!
| Introduction |
Jake Boulder Thriller #3
The third Jake Boulder Thriller opens with a bang: Jake finds himself surrounded by four thugs, out to get him. Somehow, this opening scene sets the mood for the entire thriller and is characteristic of Jake Boulder’s reckless and daring behaviour in Past Echoes! It seems the four thugs were sent but by whom? More disturbing for Jake himself is, that he finds himself with a steady girlfriend now, Taylor. She will attend a wedding in New York. What are the chances Jake accompanies her? Pretty low, right?!
| Storyline |
As always, Jake is flexible and shrewd enough to get himself out of the dangerous situation with the four thugs but this time, he takes one ‘home.’ Who has given the order to attack Jake and why? Jake stoops to rather disputable measures to retrieve the information and, once again, the revenge upon Jake sterns from another alcohol-driven night. But Jake has more urgent matters to attend to as his newfound (half-)brother is very ill and the last person in the world Jake wants to track down, let alone see, proves to be the answer. And there is more: a lawyer’s appointment brings him an assignment he is unable to refuse, a task that will bring him grief and puts him in many a violent situation, even in mortal danger more than once. With the help of Alfonse, his best friend and private eye, a dab hand at finding information on the internet, Jake sets about on a path into his own past as well as even more disturbing and shocking past events past that will change his future forever… provided he survives his clash with the ruthless assassin, The Mortician, that is…
| My Thoughts |
With the third instalment of the Jake Boulder Thrillers, Graham Smith has again provided us with an action-filled, fast-paced thriller in which the events follow one another at high speed. You barely have time to pause and think, you have to keep on reading because well… Past Echoes is unputdownable! I know – that word – but seriously, I read it in two sessions, only because I had to and to me, I could not get fast enough back to Past Echoes to find out how it would end. I loved reconnecting with Jake Boulder and his best friend Alfonse but sadly, a character I have grown fond of stayed in the shadows this time. Sigh. Although this thriller ended way too soon for me, I also had mixed feelings as to the motives and actions involved but I cannot divulge too much as it would give the plot away. I will only say that to me, the last chapter was great to read! Once again Graham Smith has delivered a grim and powerful dark thriller that captivates from the first page to the last and makes you beg for the next one .. soon?!
February 17, 2018
This is a little hard to review because if you haven’t already been keeping up with the series it could just spoil certain story lines that run from one book to another, as in this case. So you may as well read all three really. Believe me when you finish each book you are ready for the next.
Now for a little general information on Jake Boulder, he is a Scotsman living in America and sees himself as a pretty average guy. Average height, average weight and average looks but that is where average stops. I don’t know if he was born with stubbornness and determination to be the best or if it was his childhood that made him that way. I just know that where most kids that keep getting knocked down would stay down, Jake would be the one to keep getting up and learn how not to be knocked down in the first place. Now he is one determined man when he has a mission.
Due to the type of life style he has he doesn’t really go for the long-term stuff with the ladies but Taylor was different. So when the opportunity comes up to travel to New York on a personal life or death matter, plus the chance to follow-up on a promise of a dying lady’s wishes and attend a wedding that his girlfriend wants him to go to, it seems that he can have all his eggs in one basket. It all sounds too easy and Jake’s life has never been easy.
Now I don’t know if I am just getting more into the series or what but this story real ticked all the adrenaline boxes, emotional melt down buttons and total entertainment requirements. I thought I knew Jake but I have only really known him professionally, well plus a bit, but this story is a Jake that I don’t think even he knew was inside him. This story pushes him into so many personal and emotional areas of his life so quickly from every avenue. It is almost like a shut down of him as a person and a new professional Jake that can’t for a little while see anything but an end result. It is the only way to deal with what he has to do. Total focused.
Out of all the three books, this has to be my favourite, so far but I am sure the author Graham Smith will push Jake even more in the next one. A really belting book.
Now for a little general information on Jake Boulder, he is a Scotsman living in America and sees himself as a pretty average guy. Average height, average weight and average looks but that is where average stops. I don’t know if he was born with stubbornness and determination to be the best or if it was his childhood that made him that way. I just know that where most kids that keep getting knocked down would stay down, Jake would be the one to keep getting up and learn how not to be knocked down in the first place. Now he is one determined man when he has a mission.
Due to the type of life style he has he doesn’t really go for the long-term stuff with the ladies but Taylor was different. So when the opportunity comes up to travel to New York on a personal life or death matter, plus the chance to follow-up on a promise of a dying lady’s wishes and attend a wedding that his girlfriend wants him to go to, it seems that he can have all his eggs in one basket. It all sounds too easy and Jake’s life has never been easy.
Now I don’t know if I am just getting more into the series or what but this story real ticked all the adrenaline boxes, emotional melt down buttons and total entertainment requirements. I thought I knew Jake but I have only really known him professionally, well plus a bit, but this story is a Jake that I don’t think even he knew was inside him. This story pushes him into so many personal and emotional areas of his life so quickly from every avenue. It is almost like a shut down of him as a person and a new professional Jake that can’t for a little while see anything but an end result. It is the only way to deal with what he has to do. Total focused.
Out of all the three books, this has to be my favourite, so far but I am sure the author Graham Smith will push Jake even more in the next one. A really belting book.
February 4, 2018
can't believe we are at book 3 all ready, it doesn't seem long ago I was introduced to Jake Boulder in book 1, Watching the Bodies. I was so looking forward to getting back in the company of Jake, and couldn't wait to start this book.
Well, what does book 3 have to offer, well that's easy. It offers everything you would want from a brilliant, unputdownable read. If you have been following Jake Boulder on his journey, then I can safely say you will absolutely love this book. It's a lock the doors, clear your diary and take the phone off the hook, kind of book. Once you get stuck into this you'll find it difficult to put down.
Boulder along with Alfonse his trusted partner have their hands full in this book. Tasked with searching for a man who they know nothing about. After a local lady died she has left instruction for this man to be found to inherit her fortune.
Boulder also needs to search for his father, personal reasons mean he needs to be found.
Boulder comes up against more than one obstacle along the way. Luckily Boulder knows how to look after himself. He doesn't always go looking for trouble, it seems trouble has a knack of finding him.
Jake Boulder I can only describe as an awesome character. The author has certainly created a memorable character, He's gutsy, ballsy but we also see his loving side. Jake has a lot to take on this time around, and his emotions take a beating as well as his body.
Boulder has a huge challenge on his hands, and it's going to take some guts to get through it. There were parts in this book that felt like I was watching a hollywood thriller. Plenty of nail biting, breath holding moments in this book.
First class read.
I have loved each and every one of these books, I love Graham's style of writing, the knack he has to get the reader involved in the story is first class. I have added this book to my 2018 Must reads list.
Well, what does book 3 have to offer, well that's easy. It offers everything you would want from a brilliant, unputdownable read. If you have been following Jake Boulder on his journey, then I can safely say you will absolutely love this book. It's a lock the doors, clear your diary and take the phone off the hook, kind of book. Once you get stuck into this you'll find it difficult to put down.
Boulder along with Alfonse his trusted partner have their hands full in this book. Tasked with searching for a man who they know nothing about. After a local lady died she has left instruction for this man to be found to inherit her fortune.
Boulder also needs to search for his father, personal reasons mean he needs to be found.
Boulder comes up against more than one obstacle along the way. Luckily Boulder knows how to look after himself. He doesn't always go looking for trouble, it seems trouble has a knack of finding him.
Jake Boulder I can only describe as an awesome character. The author has certainly created a memorable character, He's gutsy, ballsy but we also see his loving side. Jake has a lot to take on this time around, and his emotions take a beating as well as his body.
Boulder has a huge challenge on his hands, and it's going to take some guts to get through it. There were parts in this book that felt like I was watching a hollywood thriller. Plenty of nail biting, breath holding moments in this book.
First class read.
I have loved each and every one of these books, I love Graham's style of writing, the knack he has to get the reader involved in the story is first class. I have added this book to my 2018 Must reads list.
February 4, 2018
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This is the third book in the Jake Boulder series and the third I have read - I really, really enjoyed the first two books (and I definitely recommend that you read them in order - Watching the Bodies is book 1 and Kindred Killers is book 2) as this one runs on from events that happen in the second book.
Jake is a great character and in this book we get to see a more of his personality and I thought in this book he was much darker and determined, I don't want to put in any spoilers in my review but I think he works really well in that guise! The book does contain quite a bit of violence but it is fully needed to support the storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was one of those books that you want to read in one sitting, it is fast paced and full of action!
This is an excellent series and one I would highly recommend - I have given this book 5 stars so that is a hat trick for the books in the series so far - very much looking forward to the next Boulder book which is due out later this year!
This is the third book in the Jake Boulder series and the third I have read - I really, really enjoyed the first two books (and I definitely recommend that you read them in order - Watching the Bodies is book 1 and Kindred Killers is book 2) as this one runs on from events that happen in the second book.
Jake is a great character and in this book we get to see a more of his personality and I thought in this book he was much darker and determined, I don't want to put in any spoilers in my review but I think he works really well in that guise! The book does contain quite a bit of violence but it is fully needed to support the storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was one of those books that you want to read in one sitting, it is fast paced and full of action!
This is an excellent series and one I would highly recommend - I have given this book 5 stars so that is a hat trick for the books in the series so far - very much looking forward to the next Boulder book which is due out later this year!
February 5, 2018
I do love this Jake Boulder series his character has grown over the 3 books but they would still work very well as stand alone.
This story is slightly different in that there is a strong personal aspect to it. I like the way Jake is learning to love and that there is more to life than the fighting. His character develops in this book into a complex individual with deep feelings that are beginning to crawl their way to the surface.
It begins with the death of a dear friend who leaves a legacy to Jake in the form of a series of clues. Alongside this we have Jake's brother John who needs a bone marrow donor so as well as solving clues Jake also needs to track down his estranged father.
The book is a mix of emotions and fast paced thrilling adventures that see Jake take on the might of the mafia. A bit far-fetched you may think! Not with Jake Boulder as the star of the show and Graham Smith behind the pen. This book is a very believable scenario where one (or 2 because we mustn't forget the amazing Alfonzo) brilliant planning brain has every chance of out manoeuvring even the highest people in the mafia. Why he is provoked to do this is for you to find out.
Brilliantly written, fast paced and gripping this is Graham Smith at his very best. I am so pleased he is now working on Book 4 and I am hoping for many more in this series.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books and Netgalley for the advance copy of this book.
This story is slightly different in that there is a strong personal aspect to it. I like the way Jake is learning to love and that there is more to life than the fighting. His character develops in this book into a complex individual with deep feelings that are beginning to crawl their way to the surface.
It begins with the death of a dear friend who leaves a legacy to Jake in the form of a series of clues. Alongside this we have Jake's brother John who needs a bone marrow donor so as well as solving clues Jake also needs to track down his estranged father.
The book is a mix of emotions and fast paced thrilling adventures that see Jake take on the might of the mafia. A bit far-fetched you may think! Not with Jake Boulder as the star of the show and Graham Smith behind the pen. This book is a very believable scenario where one (or 2 because we mustn't forget the amazing Alfonzo) brilliant planning brain has every chance of out manoeuvring even the highest people in the mafia. Why he is provoked to do this is for you to find out.
Brilliantly written, fast paced and gripping this is Graham Smith at his very best. I am so pleased he is now working on Book 4 and I am hoping for many more in this series.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books and Netgalley for the advance copy of this book.
February 13, 2018
Right, so there I am reading Past Echoes, quite happily ... enjoying the tension, savouring the adrenalin, lapping up the excitement, just heading to the half way mark ... when ... WHAM! ... out of nowhere Smith sends a curve ball that still has me reeling. I jumped up from my seat yelling 'How Could You?' to the absent author.
The cats scattered and, were it not for my instinctive need to protect my kindle at all costs, I'm sure it would have been flung at the window. The upshot of this, though, is that it is this sort of suspenseful, twisty writing that makes the Jake Boulder books so compelling ... so despite my disbelief it's hats off to Graham Smith.
In Past Echoes, Boulder is tasked with hunting down a beneficiary in a friend's will which will reveal some startling information about key political figures in New York. Alongside this, he must make contact with his father in order to save his half brother from certain death. Past Echoes shows us another side to Jake Boulder. Completely out of his comfort zone and facing personal trials that no man should ever have to face, we see Boulders vulnerable side ... and I like it. Alongside this we see Boulders mum in a different light. Their converging backstories are illuminating and serve to soften Jake's harder edges as well as his mum's brittleness. Insight into Boulder's Sottish heritage is heart warming and thought provoking. This is a well rounded read with a hell of a lot of oomph!
Fast paced, energetic and jam packed full of surprises Past Echoes is not to be missed. I'm already eager to see what Smith will do with Boulder in the future.
The cats scattered and, were it not for my instinctive need to protect my kindle at all costs, I'm sure it would have been flung at the window. The upshot of this, though, is that it is this sort of suspenseful, twisty writing that makes the Jake Boulder books so compelling ... so despite my disbelief it's hats off to Graham Smith.
In Past Echoes, Boulder is tasked with hunting down a beneficiary in a friend's will which will reveal some startling information about key political figures in New York. Alongside this, he must make contact with his father in order to save his half brother from certain death. Past Echoes shows us another side to Jake Boulder. Completely out of his comfort zone and facing personal trials that no man should ever have to face, we see Boulders vulnerable side ... and I like it. Alongside this we see Boulders mum in a different light. Their converging backstories are illuminating and serve to soften Jake's harder edges as well as his mum's brittleness. Insight into Boulder's Sottish heritage is heart warming and thought provoking. This is a well rounded read with a hell of a lot of oomph!
Fast paced, energetic and jam packed full of surprises Past Echoes is not to be missed. I'm already eager to see what Smith will do with Boulder in the future.
February 2, 2018
Just as a friendly warning….. I have to say…. YOU MUST READ THE KINDRED KILLERS BEFORE PAST ECHOES. The whole premise for Past Echoes is stems from seeds planted in The Kindred Killers. Don’t say I didn’t warn you…….
If you thought Boulder was unleashed in the previous novels, you ain’t seen nothing yet!! He’s got his work cut out finding two people who don’t want to be found; one to save a life, the other to deliver news of an unexpected kind! Will he succeed? Will he elude the mafia and their hitman?
This fast paced crime thriller has your imagination leaving small-town Casperton and heading to the bright lights of NYC! And so Jake begins his manhunt which doesn’t come without its problems and diversions. We have car chases, boat pursuits, shoot outs and lots and lots of Jake!
Graham Smith, despite writing addictive crime stories, has managed to seamlessly insert a massive emotive storyline. The Jake Boulder series has brought out the darker side of the author’s imagination but along with that, he broke my heart. And he doesn’t hold back any punches in the slightest. This is one hell of a rollercoaster that just kept me glued to my kindle; but it was a rollercoaster I didn’t want to end.
If you like your action heroes, you so need to meet Jake Boulder! Go on….you know you want to!!
If you thought Boulder was unleashed in the previous novels, you ain’t seen nothing yet!! He’s got his work cut out finding two people who don’t want to be found; one to save a life, the other to deliver news of an unexpected kind! Will he succeed? Will he elude the mafia and their hitman?
This fast paced crime thriller has your imagination leaving small-town Casperton and heading to the bright lights of NYC! And so Jake begins his manhunt which doesn’t come without its problems and diversions. We have car chases, boat pursuits, shoot outs and lots and lots of Jake!
Graham Smith, despite writing addictive crime stories, has managed to seamlessly insert a massive emotive storyline. The Jake Boulder series has brought out the darker side of the author’s imagination but along with that, he broke my heart. And he doesn’t hold back any punches in the slightest. This is one hell of a rollercoaster that just kept me glued to my kindle; but it was a rollercoaster I didn’t want to end.
If you like your action heroes, you so need to meet Jake Boulder! Go on….you know you want to!!
February 3, 2018
Past Echoes gives you thrilling, psychological drama at it's best with Jake Boulder, meaner and tougher than ever before. This man knows how to screw with folk's brains and his torture is mind-twistingly good! Seriously I want to learn a few lessons from this man!
I have to be so careful as there is so much I want to tell you about this book but don't want to give anything away! So the plot aside which the blurb explains perfectly, this one for me was all about the relationships in Jake's life and the impact that they have on him as a man now. As he hunts down his father in a bid to save his half brother's life, I just knew that this was not going to be a happy ever after daddy/son relationship no matter whether or not he found him. Let's just say I was right and we get to meet one of the most odious men in the world! In the last book, Kindred Killers, we had hints of the Lurve word entering Jake's life in the shape of the beautiful Taylor and in Past Echoes I loved seeing how Graham Smith's mind worked with this one.
I kind of saw a softer side to Jake in this book (but don't worry he isn't losing his touch) and it was a wee eye-opener to what lies beneath this tough shell of a man. He has so much to deal with in his life and I felt kind of worried for him at times, och but that's just the over protective Scottish mammy coming out in me! Over this series, Jake's character has grown and I cannot wait to see what lies in wait for him in the next book! Knowing the twisted mind of Graham Smith, it certainly is not going to be easy though!
Awww and Jake's mammy! Oh, I love that wee wumman! A wee feisty Glaswegian there were a few points in this book that Graham Smith reduced me to tears! She is such a typical Glaswegian, tough as old boots on the outside, the kind that would give you a skelp round the ears but inside is the warmest and softest heart ever. She has not had an easy life and Past Echoes will have you wanting to reach out and give her a massive big hug!
Past Echoes has all the action, all the drama and all the suspense I was looking for in a gripping read. Twists and turns kept me guessing all the way to the very end! I am such a rubbish detective, I just did not work it out! Graham Smith has got a mind that is more twisted than a corkscrew! Jake Boulder is the perfect hero for this series he has got the brawn and the brains! Past Echoes: it's explosive, it is heartwarming and it is heartbreaking. Do not say I didn't warn you!
I have to be so careful as there is so much I want to tell you about this book but don't want to give anything away! So the plot aside which the blurb explains perfectly, this one for me was all about the relationships in Jake's life and the impact that they have on him as a man now. As he hunts down his father in a bid to save his half brother's life, I just knew that this was not going to be a happy ever after daddy/son relationship no matter whether or not he found him. Let's just say I was right and we get to meet one of the most odious men in the world! In the last book, Kindred Killers, we had hints of the Lurve word entering Jake's life in the shape of the beautiful Taylor and in Past Echoes I loved seeing how Graham Smith's mind worked with this one.
I kind of saw a softer side to Jake in this book (but don't worry he isn't losing his touch) and it was a wee eye-opener to what lies beneath this tough shell of a man. He has so much to deal with in his life and I felt kind of worried for him at times, och but that's just the over protective Scottish mammy coming out in me! Over this series, Jake's character has grown and I cannot wait to see what lies in wait for him in the next book! Knowing the twisted mind of Graham Smith, it certainly is not going to be easy though!
Awww and Jake's mammy! Oh, I love that wee wumman! A wee feisty Glaswegian there were a few points in this book that Graham Smith reduced me to tears! She is such a typical Glaswegian, tough as old boots on the outside, the kind that would give you a skelp round the ears but inside is the warmest and softest heart ever. She has not had an easy life and Past Echoes will have you wanting to reach out and give her a massive big hug!
Past Echoes has all the action, all the drama and all the suspense I was looking for in a gripping read. Twists and turns kept me guessing all the way to the very end! I am such a rubbish detective, I just did not work it out! Graham Smith has got a mind that is more twisted than a corkscrew! Jake Boulder is the perfect hero for this series he has got the brawn and the brains! Past Echoes: it's explosive, it is heartwarming and it is heartbreaking. Do not say I didn't warn you!
February 11, 2018
Jake Boulder and his girlfriend Taylor travel to New York. Jack is on a mission. He needs to find his father, Cameron, to help his half-brother John. John needs a transfusion, and Cameron is hopefully the one that will work. There is man things going on in this story. I may have missed something because I have not read the two previous books. This is definitely a action adventure book. I would like to thank Bloodhound Books for getting me a copy of this story. The review is done voluntarily and of my own opinion.
February 5, 2018
This book was thriller and in it he had to find his father and a past love of a dear friend .
He lives in New York and the death count has a rising star plus countrymen hitmen
I had the book by Bloodhound
He lives in New York and the death count has a rising star plus countrymen hitmen
I had the book by Bloodhound
February 12, 2018
I was eagerly anticipating book three in the series, particularly as The Kindred Killers finished on such an explosive note. And oh boy, I was not disappointed. In my opinion, this is by far the best Jake Boulder book in the series so far. I was completely entranced from start to finish. The main plot point in Past Echoes reveals a more emotional side to this lean, mean, fighting machine. And, in a strange way, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Boulder’s softer side. Although it didn’t last very long and he was back to planning revenge missions and beating the ‘you know what’ out of people in no time!
Past Echoes starts by referring back to the events of The Kindred Killers. I asked myself whether this would hinder a new reader to the series, diving straight in with book three. It always helps when you start at the beginning of a series but I am well known for accidentally (sometimes on purpose *snigger*) starting part way through. My advice is, and will always be, start at the beginning. Watch the characters grow, find out their backstory. Don’t MISS anything. But, saying that, Past Echoes ‘could’ be read as a standalone but only because Smith does an excellent job of filling in the gaps for new readers. Although I can guarantee, if this is the first Jake Boulder book you pick up, you WILL want to read the first two in the series as well. Guaranteed!
One of the things I enjoyed the most about this book was the way the author sets up the story so you think it’s going to go in one particular direction. He then completely wrong-foots you so you’re suddenly on this unexpected, intense and utterly thrilling rollercoaster ride of terror and reading delight. I loved it.
Before I sign off I would like to mention one more thing. The inclusion of Cameron MacDonald, Boulder’s estranged father. A stroke of genius on the author’s part because if you didn’t love Boulder before, once you’ve met his @r5e of a father, you won’t be able to stop yourself from feeling a little for him. Cameron is the lowest of the low. He plays a key role in Past Echoes but I hope this is the last we see of him for some time. I always enjoy it when an author includes a character for us readers to hate. In this case, Cameron fits the bill perfectly. The tension, the unpleasantness MacDonald brings. Oooh, he’s a nasty piece of work…
Would I recommend this book? Most definitely. Plus book one, plus book two. Buy the set, they’re superbly gripping with a lead character you can’t help but love. Easily Smith’s best Jake Boulder novel! I couldn’t tell whether Boulder was going to live, or die in a blaze of burning bullets and that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Raw, evocative and deliciously intense. I loved it!
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an eARC of Past Echoes. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
Past Echoes starts by referring back to the events of The Kindred Killers. I asked myself whether this would hinder a new reader to the series, diving straight in with book three. It always helps when you start at the beginning of a series but I am well known for accidentally (sometimes on purpose *snigger*) starting part way through. My advice is, and will always be, start at the beginning. Watch the characters grow, find out their backstory. Don’t MISS anything. But, saying that, Past Echoes ‘could’ be read as a standalone but only because Smith does an excellent job of filling in the gaps for new readers. Although I can guarantee, if this is the first Jake Boulder book you pick up, you WILL want to read the first two in the series as well. Guaranteed!
One of the things I enjoyed the most about this book was the way the author sets up the story so you think it’s going to go in one particular direction. He then completely wrong-foots you so you’re suddenly on this unexpected, intense and utterly thrilling rollercoaster ride of terror and reading delight. I loved it.
Before I sign off I would like to mention one more thing. The inclusion of Cameron MacDonald, Boulder’s estranged father. A stroke of genius on the author’s part because if you didn’t love Boulder before, once you’ve met his @r5e of a father, you won’t be able to stop yourself from feeling a little for him. Cameron is the lowest of the low. He plays a key role in Past Echoes but I hope this is the last we see of him for some time. I always enjoy it when an author includes a character for us readers to hate. In this case, Cameron fits the bill perfectly. The tension, the unpleasantness MacDonald brings. Oooh, he’s a nasty piece of work…
Would I recommend this book? Most definitely. Plus book one, plus book two. Buy the set, they’re superbly gripping with a lead character you can’t help but love. Easily Smith’s best Jake Boulder novel! I couldn’t tell whether Boulder was going to live, or die in a blaze of burning bullets and that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Raw, evocative and deliciously intense. I loved it!
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an eARC of Past Echoes. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 1, 2018
We are back with Boulder and he has more personal issues to deal with within Past Echoes, as the title hints at.
Smith gives us one of my favourite opening scenes to a book, with the best descriptions for characters that you need to know, but not name.
Boulder is soon in the thick of action and from chapter one until the end, our testosterone fuelled hero doesn’t have many moments to relax fully.
Alfonse is as ever Boulders reliable side kick, these two have a fantastic partnership and complement each other. I really find Alfonse character gives a good balance to the read, and he makes a great partner for Boulder.
If you are an adrenaline book junkie, with a hearo that you don’t quite want to admire, then this is the series for you, I do as always recommend reading series in order, even if they can be read as a stand-alone, you get so much more from the back story.
Smith has made Boulder as always so slick, amusing just under all the humour we learn more in depth of Boulders family, but without taking way from his edginess.
He is set a conundrum to complete and we are taken with him on his journey both work wise and personally.
As ever Boulder rights the wrongs in his own unique way.
Paste echoes is an excellent title for this extremely exciting book that is full of game play and I think Boulder, may have enjoyed his inner James Bond moments.
Smith gives us one of my favourite opening scenes to a book, with the best descriptions for characters that you need to know, but not name.
Boulder is soon in the thick of action and from chapter one until the end, our testosterone fuelled hero doesn’t have many moments to relax fully.
Alfonse is as ever Boulders reliable side kick, these two have a fantastic partnership and complement each other. I really find Alfonse character gives a good balance to the read, and he makes a great partner for Boulder.
If you are an adrenaline book junkie, with a hearo that you don’t quite want to admire, then this is the series for you, I do as always recommend reading series in order, even if they can be read as a stand-alone, you get so much more from the back story.
Smith has made Boulder as always so slick, amusing just under all the humour we learn more in depth of Boulders family, but without taking way from his edginess.
He is set a conundrum to complete and we are taken with him on his journey both work wise and personally.
As ever Boulder rights the wrongs in his own unique way.
Paste echoes is an excellent title for this extremely exciting book that is full of game play and I think Boulder, may have enjoyed his inner James Bond moments.
April 4, 2018
past echoes by Graham Smith.
an absolutely fantastic read. jake Boulder is back. this time he is off to new York with his girlfriend Taylor. he is on 2 missions. to find his estranged father for a life saving transfusion the second is to find the beneficiary and reveal a dead woman's secret.
And her secret may be Deadly?
Will Jake and Taylor get out of this alive?
loved the story. Didn't like Cameron Jake father he was not nice. jake was my favourite character. what a twist I didn't expect that. what a read. 5*. highly recommended.
an absolutely fantastic read. jake Boulder is back. this time he is off to new York with his girlfriend Taylor. he is on 2 missions. to find his estranged father for a life saving transfusion the second is to find the beneficiary and reveal a dead woman's secret.
And her secret may be Deadly?
Will Jake and Taylor get out of this alive?
loved the story. Didn't like Cameron Jake father he was not nice. jake was my favourite character. what a twist I didn't expect that. what a read. 5*. highly recommended.
April 4, 2018
past echoes by Graham Smith.
an absolutely fantastic read. jake Boulder is back. this time he is off to new York with his girlfriend Taylor. he is on 2 missions. to find his estranged father for a life saving transfusion the second is to find the beneficiary and reveal a dead woman's secret.
And her secret may be Deadly?
Will Jake and Taylor get out of this alive?
loved the story. Didn't like Cameron Jake father he was not nice. jake was my favourite character. what a twist I didn't expect that. what a read. 5*. highly recommended.
an absolutely fantastic read. jake Boulder is back. this time he is off to new York with his girlfriend Taylor. he is on 2 missions. to find his estranged father for a life saving transfusion the second is to find the beneficiary and reveal a dead woman's secret.
And her secret may be Deadly?
Will Jake and Taylor get out of this alive?
loved the story. Didn't like Cameron Jake father he was not nice. jake was my favourite character. what a twist I didn't expect that. what a read. 5*. highly recommended.
January 18, 2018
The Jack Boulder series by Graham Smith is well-written, exciting and very readable. This is the third in the series and we see a different side of Jake when his personal life collides with his work. The violence is stepped up, perhaps to the detriment of the plot, but a very enjoyable book nonetheless.
February 15, 2018
I would like to thank Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book which I voluntarily reviewed.
This is the third Jake Boulder novel that I've read and loved.
Jake Boulder is a character I'd love to meet. Although he's a hard man, in this book we see how emotional he can get and this endears him to me even more.
As with all of Graham Smith's books, once you start reading you find yourself on a non-stop, action packed ride.
In my opinion, Past Echoes is the best, so far, in the series and I hope there are many more to come.
If you are looking for a fast paced, tense, roller coaster of a thriller, then you must read this.
This is the third Jake Boulder novel that I've read and loved.
Jake Boulder is a character I'd love to meet. Although he's a hard man, in this book we see how emotional he can get and this endears him to me even more.
As with all of Graham Smith's books, once you start reading you find yourself on a non-stop, action packed ride.
In my opinion, Past Echoes is the best, so far, in the series and I hope there are many more to come.
If you are looking for a fast paced, tense, roller coaster of a thriller, then you must read this.
February 6, 2018
Past Echoes sees the welcome return of doorman and private investigator, Jake Boulder, in the third book of the series. Can you read this book as a standalone if you haven’t yet managed to catch the previous books? I guess you can, but it would probably make more sense following the other two books.
Smith takes a slightly different path with this Jake Boulder novel, venturing outside of Jake’s home town of Casperton and to the bright lights of New York to find the beneficiary of a will and reveal a long-hidden secret. Jake also has to find his estranged father to try and save the life of his half-brother. Jake quickly ends up in a situation out of his control and pitted against a deadly hitman.
Past Echoes starts with a bang as we meet Jake in a violent situation with four men and this sets the tone for what might be the darkest and most brutal Boulder novel yet. Personally, it’s a case of the more brutal the better as I like to be shocked and Smith certainly managed to pull it off making me wince on more than one occasion. The pace is unrelenting from the outset and Smith ensures that you have to read just one more page.
Alfonse takes more of a back seat in this novel and we start to get more of a glimpse into what shaped Jake’s character. Jake’s father features heavily in Past Echoes and I really enjoyed finding out about him, despite him being a loathsome character. As the situation Jake finds himself spirals, he ends up having to make decisions that are bound to have an impact on him and I look forward to seeing where Jake ends up next. Will he continue to be the Jake we know and love or will his recent experiences, coupled with the potentially shared character traits he has with his father, turn him into a more bitter and less caring character?
A great addition to the Boulder series, Smith has ensured with Past Echoes that you want to keep following Jake on his journey. Another fast-paced, gripping and dark read.
Huge thanks to Graham Smith, Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound books for my advance copy and for inviting me to take part in the blog blitz.
Smith takes a slightly different path with this Jake Boulder novel, venturing outside of Jake’s home town of Casperton and to the bright lights of New York to find the beneficiary of a will and reveal a long-hidden secret. Jake also has to find his estranged father to try and save the life of his half-brother. Jake quickly ends up in a situation out of his control and pitted against a deadly hitman.
Past Echoes starts with a bang as we meet Jake in a violent situation with four men and this sets the tone for what might be the darkest and most brutal Boulder novel yet. Personally, it’s a case of the more brutal the better as I like to be shocked and Smith certainly managed to pull it off making me wince on more than one occasion. The pace is unrelenting from the outset and Smith ensures that you have to read just one more page.
Alfonse takes more of a back seat in this novel and we start to get more of a glimpse into what shaped Jake’s character. Jake’s father features heavily in Past Echoes and I really enjoyed finding out about him, despite him being a loathsome character. As the situation Jake finds himself spirals, he ends up having to make decisions that are bound to have an impact on him and I look forward to seeing where Jake ends up next. Will he continue to be the Jake we know and love or will his recent experiences, coupled with the potentially shared character traits he has with his father, turn him into a more bitter and less caring character?
A great addition to the Boulder series, Smith has ensured with Past Echoes that you want to keep following Jake on his journey. Another fast-paced, gripping and dark read.
Huge thanks to Graham Smith, Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound books for my advance copy and for inviting me to take part in the blog blitz.
February 20, 2018
Graham Smith - I'm blaming you! Yes, indeed, it is entirely your fault that I was still awake at 4am this morning because having started Past Echoes when I got into bed, I simply couldn't put it down. That's the last time I remember looking at the clock and thinking, "just one more chapter". The next thing I know, my alarm's ringing, I'm sitting up in bed with my glasses on the end of my nose and my Kindle entangled in the bed sheets. Of course, I've now been reading all day, (let me tell you, taking 3 dogs for a walk, steering a mobility scooter and trying to read a Kindle is NOT something I'd recommend!). I LOVED book 1, ADORED book 2 and am ADULATING book 3. I don't know if my heart can take a book 4. But now it's 5.50pm, there's no supper, no washing has been done and I have not, as yet, brushed my hair today. IT'S A REALLY, REALLY, REALLY BRILLIANT, SUPERB, AWESOME BOOK THAT YOU ABSOLUTELY, UNEQUIVOCALLY, MUST, WITHOUT A DOUBT, HAVE TO READ. You can thank me later!
January 29, 2018
This is the third instalment of the Jake Boulder series but is the first of the books I have read. After reading this one I am definitely going to go back and read the previous two.
This book has 2 stories which interlink. Firstly Jake has to find a man who has been left an inheritance from a lady who hasn’t seen this man for over 40 years. The lady has also left Jake some clues to find evidence of corruption, which includes a New York Mayoral candidate and the mafia.
Secondly Jake needs to find his long lost father in order to save his brothers life.
Will Jake be able to save his brother and uncover the corruption ? If he does at what cost will it be ?
This is a fantastic read with lots of twists and turns. A great crime based book. Thank you to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy in return for an honest review.
This book has 2 stories which interlink. Firstly Jake has to find a man who has been left an inheritance from a lady who hasn’t seen this man for over 40 years. The lady has also left Jake some clues to find evidence of corruption, which includes a New York Mayoral candidate and the mafia.
Secondly Jake needs to find his long lost father in order to save his brothers life.
Will Jake be able to save his brother and uncover the corruption ? If he does at what cost will it be ?
This is a fantastic read with lots of twists and turns. A great crime based book. Thank you to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy in return for an honest review.
February 23, 2018
Unputdownable....I flew through the pages ...Oh Jake
Jake Boulder is back.... His first task is to find an heir ...Mrs.Rosenburg has left quite a sum...Jake knows he will do this...Jake's half brother is dying of blood cancer... Time is running out ...there's only one option ..Jake must find his father...Jake heads to NewYork with Taylor his girlfriend.For the first time in his life Jake is happy Taylor is everything Jake has ever looked for in a woman...Jakes father is the most selfish ,greedy person on the planet... Because of him Jake crosses paths with the Mortician...Now Jake is so enraged .None will stop him..Jake is going to cross an invisible line...In Past Echoes... You see a little into Jakes past but will Jake be able to survive this time?..Ghosts from the past ...Sweet , beautiful Taylor....and a monster who must be put down..I flew through the pages....
Jake Boulder is back.... His first task is to find an heir ...Mrs.Rosenburg has left quite a sum...Jake knows he will do this...Jake's half brother is dying of blood cancer... Time is running out ...there's only one option ..Jake must find his father...Jake heads to NewYork with Taylor his girlfriend.For the first time in his life Jake is happy Taylor is everything Jake has ever looked for in a woman...Jakes father is the most selfish ,greedy person on the planet... Because of him Jake crosses paths with the Mortician...Now Jake is so enraged .None will stop him..Jake is going to cross an invisible line...In Past Echoes... You see a little into Jakes past but will Jake be able to survive this time?..Ghosts from the past ...Sweet , beautiful Taylor....and a monster who must be put down..I flew through the pages....
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