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Titus Black #5
Blowback
The deadliest bombs don’t tick … they just explode.
When an asset at an Iranian nuclear facility gets left behind in a massive exodus of Mossad agents from Iran, Black gets tasked with extracting her. But the simple assignment opens up a world of questions for Black and the Firestorm team, leading down a path to a deadly conspiracy.
Black and his partner Christina Shields must criss-cross the globe searching for answers in a high-stakes game. And when the answers they seek put them deeper into harm’s way, they must catch a mysterious mastermind before he kills thousands of people and jeopardizes the tenuous underpinnings of world peace.
When an asset at an Iranian nuclear facility gets left behind in a massive exodus of Mossad agents from Iran, Black gets tasked with extracting her. But the simple assignment opens up a world of questions for Black and the Firestorm team, leading down a path to a deadly conspiracy.
Black and his partner Christina Shields must criss-cross the globe searching for answers in a high-stakes game. And when the answers they seek put them deeper into harm’s way, they must catch a mysterious mastermind before he kills thousands of people and jeopardizes the tenuous underpinnings of world peace.
346 pages, Paperback
Published May 6, 2021
569 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Patterson
194 books209 followers*** Signup for my newsletter and receive a free copy of The Warren Omissions, the first book in my James Flynn thriller series, by visiting http://eepurl.com/bZwpdf ***
THE FIRST SIGNS that I might like writing -- and that I might be slightly competitive -- appeared when my year two (or first grade) teacher, Mrs. Holland, asked my class to write and illustrate our day. Mine read like this: “The Red team beat the Blue team, 1 to nil. And I won.” The next 47 entries covered my exploits on the soccer pitch while growing up in Ipswich, England.
In South Carolina as a teenager, my dad told me that I could get paid to watch sports provided I could write about it. Sounded easy enough and by the time I was 16, I landed a job at my town’s daily newspaper and had a column on Major League Baseball players from our area. I also covered my first riot there at a sporting event -- and it’s safe to say I was smitten with journalism.
After graduating from one of the best journalism schools in the country, I took a job as a sports editor in South Georgia and learned firsthand about the passion of high school sports in rural America. I thought I knew before, but I didn’t. This was another world.
I also had the opportunity to cover major sporting events like the Olympic Games, the World Series, the Super Bowl, and the Final Four. It was a thrill!
But nothing was as thrilling to me as uncovering the truth in investigative assignments. I once broke a story about a prominent southern football team’s NCAA violation -- and found out the violating coach had committed suicide only a few months earlier. The story won a national writing award and stoked my desire to write about these issues. It made me realize that the sports world was just another fantastic backdrop for drama.
After writing non-fiction books with athletes, for athletes, and ghost writing for many others, I decided to enter the world of fiction writing. It had been something I wanted to do but never found the time. So, I made the time--and had a blast in the process.
I’m not out to become the next Faulkner or Hemingway -- I’m just out to tell a good story. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them!
THE FIRST SIGNS that I might like writing -- and that I might be slightly competitive -- appeared when my year two (or first grade) teacher, Mrs. Holland, asked my class to write and illustrate our day. Mine read like this: “The Red team beat the Blue team, 1 to nil. And I won.” The next 47 entries covered my exploits on the soccer pitch while growing up in Ipswich, England.
In South Carolina as a teenager, my dad told me that I could get paid to watch sports provided I could write about it. Sounded easy enough and by the time I was 16, I landed a job at my town’s daily newspaper and had a column on Major League Baseball players from our area. I also covered my first riot there at a sporting event -- and it’s safe to say I was smitten with journalism.
After graduating from one of the best journalism schools in the country, I took a job as a sports editor in South Georgia and learned firsthand about the passion of high school sports in rural America. I thought I knew before, but I didn’t. This was another world.
I also had the opportunity to cover major sporting events like the Olympic Games, the World Series, the Super Bowl, and the Final Four. It was a thrill!
But nothing was as thrilling to me as uncovering the truth in investigative assignments. I once broke a story about a prominent southern football team’s NCAA violation -- and found out the violating coach had committed suicide only a few months earlier. The story won a national writing award and stoked my desire to write about these issues. It made me realize that the sports world was just another fantastic backdrop for drama.
After writing non-fiction books with athletes, for athletes, and ghost writing for many others, I decided to enter the world of fiction writing. It had been something I wanted to do but never found the time. So, I made the time--and had a blast in the process.
I’m not out to become the next Faulkner or Hemingway -- I’m just out to tell a good story. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them!
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 23, 2022
This review is for BLOW BACK by JAMES Patterson & Brendan DuBois, published 2022:
I’ve read many of James Patterson’s earlier novels, but hesitated to read this one if it was based on his personal political party point of view, as many authors do. I’m glad I tried it in spite of some negative reviews because I decided to read it as a broader view with the politics inspired by current international events. Nuclear warfare is no longer the only threat, now it’s cyber warfare, too -- always some new weapon to threaten world peace.
This story has compelling readability for constant action -- a fast-paced, action-oriented adventure. Contrary to those readers who were annoyed, I thought Patterson and DuBois showed deft ability to keep tension and momentum mounting while balancing different aspects that happen simultaneously. All the egos and war/spy toys are on display. As human nature will dictate, too many people think they are the smartest one in the room and some of them have dangerous “frailties.” Food for thought-provoking discussions.
CIA agents, LIAM GREY and NOA HIMEL, start out thinking they are doing the right thing for the right reason, with assignments from the right man. When they learn how wrong they are, there is no one to tell, nothing they can see to do, but they have do something--even if it gets them killed.
. . .
A White House aide tells her boss: “I’m not making it up, I’m reading it on CNN." Let’s hope she considers more than one source -- and none of them the media.
October 25, 2021
BLOWBACK...RJ..Patterson
Firestorm Dirextor Blunt, asking Black if he wanted this assignment. Black was in Iran, his target was Jana Shadid, a recent Georgia Tech graduate a Mossad agent had asked her to spy for them. Someone defected and a list was turned in with her name on it, Black was there to extract her. A success, she did not want to go to Israel, she wanted United Stares and espionage. She had a taste of it with Black. They could use her at Firestorm.
Blunt is a target from Vernon Roberts a freshman congressman, who has little scruples. A contact. Blunt uses, found Roberts has used forty five counts of extortion over judges, politicians, etc to gain power.
The assignment all ties in with the uranium and Schwartz’s involvement, and him wanting immunity or a bomb will go off in the city. Non stop action is this flowing plot with Black, going from one assignment to the next. It’s what he loves to do.Jana worked well with Black. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Firestorm Dirextor Blunt, asking Black if he wanted this assignment. Black was in Iran, his target was Jana Shadid, a recent Georgia Tech graduate a Mossad agent had asked her to spy for them. Someone defected and a list was turned in with her name on it, Black was there to extract her. A success, she did not want to go to Israel, she wanted United Stares and espionage. She had a taste of it with Black. They could use her at Firestorm.
Blunt is a target from Vernon Roberts a freshman congressman, who has little scruples. A contact. Blunt uses, found Roberts has used forty five counts of extortion over judges, politicians, etc to gain power.
The assignment all ties in with the uranium and Schwartz’s involvement, and him wanting immunity or a bomb will go off in the city. Non stop action is this flowing plot with Black, going from one assignment to the next. It’s what he loves to do.Jana worked well with Black. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
September 24, 2022
Full of action and twists that were not expected!
I enjoyed the constant action of the storyline. Its twists and turns kept me in suspense as to what would be the next step. The author wrote the story in a way that made reading the book fun and exciting! I don't want to show a synopsis of the storyline since I believe that will be a killjoy, but just know that its not just the mission, the accomplishment and ending of the mission, but the way it starts so simple and it becomes more complicated and diverse in its development and the excitement to read along the way towards completion! I recommend this book to those interested in action stories and light readers. Young adults will probably enjoy it too!
I enjoyed the constant action of the storyline. Its twists and turns kept me in suspense as to what would be the next step. The author wrote the story in a way that made reading the book fun and exciting! I don't want to show a synopsis of the storyline since I believe that will be a killjoy, but just know that its not just the mission, the accomplishment and ending of the mission, but the way it starts so simple and it becomes more complicated and diverse in its development and the excitement to read along the way towards completion! I recommend this book to those interested in action stories and light readers. Young adults will probably enjoy it too!
November 20, 2022
In this book, Keegan Barrett hs been elected as the Preident of the United States of America. H e immediately starts doing things that are illegal, even for a president. He chooses special agents Liam Grey and Noa Himel, both of the CIA, to lead teams to do things that are illegal. He has Noa and her team to work withi the USA to get rid of people he says are doing things that hurt the USA. But it is compleely illegal for the CIA to do anything within the borders of the USA. Then he has Liam and his team take care of other enemies of the USA outside the USA borders, things that could be consdered acts of was. Again these things are not to be done legally without informing people and congress which President Barrett claims to have done, but did not.
August 3, 2020
This episode of the Titus Black thrillers has multiple stories going on simultaneously, J.D. Blunt has some issues with a junior congressman seeking revenge while Titus and Sharp are engaged in finding a source of enriched uranium. AS each Titus Black story comes out, I wonder how Mr. Patterson will outdo his last and after reading the new story I realize he outdid the last story and set the bar very high for the next story.
If you are new to the Titus Black stories grab one and settle in for a wild ride, and then carve out some extra reading time to get caught up with all the other stories. I received an Advance Reader copy and chose to provide this review.
If you are new to the Titus Black stories grab one and settle in for a wild ride, and then carve out some extra reading time to get caught up with all the other stories. I received an Advance Reader copy and chose to provide this review.
August 4, 2020
Blowback R.J. Patterson
A Mossad agent gets left behind after numerous Mossad agents have fled Iran.Titus Black, a covert agent who works for an organization called Firestorm is tasked with rescuing her. A deadly conspiracy is discovered involving enriched uranium used in nuclear weapons. A lot of very wealthy and prominent individuals are involved who are in positions of authority. Including prominent people of immense power in the pentagon. This is an action packed non stop adventure on every page! My highest recommendation!
A Mossad agent gets left behind after numerous Mossad agents have fled Iran.Titus Black, a covert agent who works for an organization called Firestorm is tasked with rescuing her. A deadly conspiracy is discovered involving enriched uranium used in nuclear weapons. A lot of very wealthy and prominent individuals are involved who are in positions of authority. Including prominent people of immense power in the pentagon. This is an action packed non stop adventure on every page! My highest recommendation!
August 4, 2020
Another explosive thriller featuring Titus Black and the Firestorm team.
When a female spying for Israel's Mossad gets left behind in Iran, it's a solo extraction job for the cagey Titus Black. After the rescue, she wants to switch alliances and work with him. Then the action really heats up.
This realistic conspiracy centers on the contemporary issue of Iranian enriched uranium. Add in complicit Americans and Titus Black works his magic.
Five stars for this well-researched series that grabs you with short, exciting chapters.
When a female spying for Israel's Mossad gets left behind in Iran, it's a solo extraction job for the cagey Titus Black. After the rescue, she wants to switch alliances and work with him. Then the action really heats up.
This realistic conspiracy centers on the contemporary issue of Iranian enriched uranium. Add in complicit Americans and Titus Black works his magic.
Five stars for this well-researched series that grabs you with short, exciting chapters.
January 17, 2023
I'm giving this book one star so no one will think I forgot to rate it.
Unfortunately in today's political climate (media etc. covering for an inept president because the previous admin ignored them and therefore, hurt their feelings) makes the plot somewhat believable the book goes on and on.
I couldn't tell if the author's remarks about tweeting were facetious in the face of the admin. in the book or if it was another jab at Trump. It was just annoying.
Unfortunately in today's political climate (media etc. covering for an inept president because the previous admin ignored them and therefore, hurt their feelings) makes the plot somewhat believable the book goes on and on.
I couldn't tell if the author's remarks about tweeting were facetious in the face of the admin. in the book or if it was another jab at Trump. It was just annoying.
August 1, 2020
Another excellent thriller with Titus Black and company. Loaded with action, suspense, and impossible to put down. Very well written book with international locations and good realistic characters. Highly recommended book and series. Don't miss this one.
Received an ARC copy from the author for my voluntary honest review.
Received an ARC copy from the author for my voluntary honest review.
August 5, 2020
Blowback
Another excellent short story from R I Patterson. Seeing the Firestorm adding a few more players is exciting. Adding more skill sets is a fantastic idea. I'm book on both Titus Black and Brady Hawk stories.
Another excellent short story from R I Patterson. Seeing the Firestorm adding a few more players is exciting. Adding more skill sets is a fantastic idea. I'm book on both Titus Black and Brady Hawk stories.
September 23, 2021
Love this series
Blunt, head of Firestorm Agency, keeps his team on their toes during more complicated assignments. Somehow, they manage to keep Firestorm secret while once again saving the world.
Blunt, head of Firestorm Agency, keeps his team on their toes during more complicated assignments. Somehow, they manage to keep Firestorm secret while once again saving the world.
February 25, 2022
it just gets better each one
Each one of the Titus Black and Shields have help from some unexpected characters. Patterson weaves new people into the plot skillfully. The exposure of Firestorm is on the line. Can they keep it secret?
Each one of the Titus Black and Shields have help from some unexpected characters. Patterson weaves new people into the plot skillfully. The exposure of Firestorm is on the line. Can they keep it secret?
September 21, 2022
Blowback
5th book of the Titus Black series. This is a great series! There is non-stop action, great characters, great chemistry. The new characters that were added fit in so well!. R. J. Patterson is a fantastic author.
5th book of the Titus Black series. This is a great series! There is non-stop action, great characters, great chemistry. The new characters that were added fit in so well!. R. J. Patterson is a fantastic author.
October 15, 2024
A definite must read series
This was an intense, complex, suspenseful, and intriguing story with many unexpected twists that you won't want to miss.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
This was an intense, complex, suspenseful, and intriguing story with many unexpected twists that you won't want to miss.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
September 15, 2020
I love all of Patterson’s books and his characters! Good book - some twists and turns - enjoyed the book.
October 19, 2020
Love the new characters
September 14, 2021
Never-stop globe-trotting hero, Titus Black, is at his best once again. An entertaining read that is fast-paced and full of action.
December 12, 2021
Lots of action!
Fun well read characters, lots of action and a fun read. Looking forward to reading more stories in this series.
Fun well read characters, lots of action and a fun read. Looking forward to reading more stories in this series.
September 1, 2022
Titus Black & team are the best! Love the way RJ Patterson writes. Not too much description. Just enough to put you into the story. He (Titus) is one badass!!
November 1, 2022
Such a great read close to what is happening now with President Biden and his fellow people not starting a war but destroying our economy!
November 12, 2022
Good but long and scary if you think about it
January 13, 2023
Enjoyed it but there was a lot going on and things that i thought were over the top.
January 17, 2023
Good story, likeable characters, fast-paced. I rate it 5 stars.
January 23, 2023
4 Stars
Blow Back (Titus Black Book #5) by R.J. Patterson.
Full Review Still to Come.
Blow Back (Titus Black Book #5) by R.J. Patterson.
Full Review Still to Come.
February 12, 2023
Great plot . Involving wacko President. Close to almost a reality situation. Deal with going over the line & shutting down world the world thru cyber warfare !
March 2, 2023
great book
March 5, 2024
I love the dynamics between Black and Shields. The addition of Ned Edgerton (Edge) and Jana Shadid added more depth to the Firestorm team.
October 26, 2020
Action packed and thrilling
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews