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FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder has a secret. One that could tear his world apart.

Now, someone else knows.

When Zack’s partner is killed and his case hits a dead end, he is reassigned to work with Dr. Olivia Bishop of the Environmental Protection Agency. At first it seems a straightforward case of industrial pollution, albeit one that has killed hundreds. But soon it becomes evident that this is only the beginning.

Someone is determined to highlight all the ways our fresh water is being destroyed. And clearly, they believe the more people who die, the more powerful the message.
Now Zack is being blackmailed into sabotaging the investigation, and Olivia’s life is threatened. She’s a strong woman, but Zack has dangerous enemies and even more dangerous friends.

He must decide how far he is willing to go to keep his secret. Who is he willing to sacrifice? It’s a race against time to hunt down the blackmailer. Can Zack find him and stop him before millions die and Zack’s secret is exposed?

315 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 17, 2022

42 people are currently reading
44 people want to read

About the author

N.J. Croft

11 books53 followers
After a number of years wandering the world in search of adventure, N.J. Croft finally settled on a farm in the mountains and now lives off-grid, growing almonds, drinking cold beer, taking in stray dogs, and writing stories where the stakes are huge and absolutely anything can happen.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Matt.
4,898 reviews13.1k followers
December 22, 2021
First and foremost, a large thank you to N.J. Croft for providing me with a copy of this novel, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

I was yet again excited when N.J. Croft asked me to read a beta copy of her latest publication in the Zack Wilder series. This one proves just as exciting as the novella series debut, with a massive mystery and a number of potential suspects. When FBI Special Agent Zack Wilder has something go horribly wrong during some undercover work, he’s whisked off to help with a case of water contamination that has claimed the lives of many. Confused as to why he might have been personally chosen, Wilder works with a local EPA agent to get to the bottom of things. What begins as some corporate finger pointing turns sinister, especially after the chairman of the local company thought responsible turns up dead by an apparent suicide. Wilder receives anonymous texts demanding that he shut things down or his secret will be revealed. When more mass water poisonings take place, Wilder is sure there is something more to the story. He’s equally worried that someone will learn of his position within the Fulcrum, an organisation he has been a part of since age 4. Working both cases, Wilder discovers that nothing is quite as it seems and he may be the prime target. A brilliant piece by N.J. Croft that kept me enthralled throughout.

FBI Agent Zack Wilder is working undercover with his partner, but things go horribly wrong when a botched raid leaves her dead. This is the second of his partners who have died in the line of duty over the last few months, leaving him a little leery. What’s worse, he is quickly shuttled off by his superior to help with a water contamination case, something about which he knows little.

As Wilder begins working with EPA Agent Dr. Olivia Bishop, they learn that the contamination in the water could not have been a simple dumping from the local factory, as its concentration levels are far too high. Rather, it must have come at the hands of an individual seeking to make a point. Dr. Bishop’s ex-husband is part of an environmental group and has a motive, but she is sure that he was not involved in any of it. Wilder receives an anonymous text warning him to close things down or his ‘secret’ will be revealed to all, which likely means his role in the Fulcrum. Wilder wants to keep that under the radar and does his best to close the case, just as a local businessman commits sluice and claims responsibility for the contamination.

No sooner than that case is closed off, than another contamination takes place and Wilder rushes off with Dr. Bishop and his newest partner. Things continue to make no sense, with contamination levels higher than could be naturally occurring. When another business owner suffers a brutal and apparently self-inflicted death, Wilder is told again that he must shut things down. Is there someone out there who knows of his role in the Fulcrum? Could all of this be Fulcrum related and there is a rogue member seeking to end him?

After being given a lead that Hoover Dam might be a subsequent target, Wilder rushes there, only to find himself caught in the middle of a trap. He’s left to protect himself and almost dies when concrete comes crashing down around him. Now, Wilder is sure that someone wants him dead and that there has to be a Fulcrum connection. Reaching out for help, Wilder learns little, but knows that he will have to watch himself or risk dying. Who is behind all this and how will Wilder uncover the truth? A thrilling piece by Croft that has me begging for more!

I have long have an interest in the work of N.J. Croft, as she pushed me outside of my comfort zone while tackling issues of science and scientific discovery. There is a degree of science to this book, in that the discussion of water contamination weaves its way into the early portion of the book, but it is not technical, nor are the issues overly complex. Rather, it is a book filled with a wonderful narrative and strong character development, while also allowing the reader to delve a little deeper into the Fulcrum and what that means for Zack Wilder. After reading the opening novella, I was very eager for this piece and am happy that I got to read it so quickly.

Special Agent Zack Wilder is back with more and keeps the reader highly entertained with both his curious backstory, as well as some wonderful development in the present. His lack of relationships may leave some baffled, but he is by no means a stranger to the ladies, as things progress in an interesting manner within the pages of this book. All that being said, his focus in the job, as well as keeping his secret about being part of the Fulcrum. Grit and determination fuel him throughout and his is not prepared to let anything stand in his way from getting answers, while always being leery about who or what awaits him around every bend. I cannot wait to learn more about him in the next year or two.

As with the introductory novella, there was much action throughout to keep the reader attentive and curious about what is to come. The limited backstory served to keep Zack on point and yet there is much about the Fulcrum that Croft will have to share in the coming novels. A swift narrative keeps the reader engaged from the outset and allows them to wonder about what awaits for Zack and others. The plot was complex enough that it could not be easily predicted, while not tangling anyone up in knots as they made their way through it all. Short chapters keep the reader on point and forging ahead, allowing me to say “just a little more” on numerous occasions. I cannot wait to see what else is to be revealed for all to see in the coming years and. how the Fulcrum will play a key role in it all.

Kudos, Madam Croft, for a great series that keeps me curious and wondering with each flip of the page.

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Profile Image for Maria Fledgling Author  Park.
982 reviews52 followers
May 11, 2023
A fabulous Zach Wilder Story

Do you ever wonder if there are people behind the scenes of your life, plotting and planning and making decisions despite what you want to have happen?

Zach Wilder, FBI Agent, works to make sure the world is a safer place for all people. Or does he? Called to consult with local law enforcement about an "accidental" poisoning of a waterway near The Halston paint company, Zack finds that arsenic was used.

Practically before he can solve this situation, he is ordered to shut down the investigation. Frustrated and wondering why, Zach and Jessica, his new partner, are called to another industrial accident scene. A lake is full of dead fish, is bright green with an algal bloom and people are dying and they don't know how.

In the background of these troubling incidents, Zach is called to meet with members of The Fulcrum, an organization he has belonged to as long as he can remember. Apparently, they have a vested interest in how these accidents are playing out.

The wonderful thing about N. J. Croft's books in this series is that they are intricately woven, plot behind plot. Zach Wilder's needs and those of the people around him are not necessarily the same. You won't see the end coming on this book.
Profile Image for Patricia (Irishcharmer) Yarian.
364 reviews17 followers
January 17, 2022
First, I'd like to thank N J for giving me a free copy to read this! It took me a bit longer than it should, and must apologize...but recovering from nasty storms etc ,and worry because family member in the hospital--well, enough of that--- what you need to know is this is a wonderful and well written story!
And Zach!! Well my oh my! I think I've got a new "hero" . He's a feebie that finds himself in a tight jam..And after losing a partner (2 of'em no less) he meets his match with a)a new sassy, all business partner and b) an environmentalist that just may turn his head and his heart (eventually).
As they work together , environmental chaos is close to overwhelming..even me the reader!
The characters are well fleshed out, they're believable and they'll make an impression on you.
I enjoyed this book, and also enjoyed adding a new writer to my "fav" list! I will read more of hers -next one up for me is Fulcrum--Zach's beginning!
So if you want a good read (haha really no pun intended😀😀)-grab a copy, get comfortable and enjoy!--P/
12.7k reviews189 followers
January 12, 2022
An awesome book as always. There’s an eco terrorist, danger everywhere. How will FBI agent Zack deal with all ot this, will he be able to solve it. Plenty of action to keep you gripped.
1,768 reviews12 followers
March 22, 2022
This is the 2nd book in the series and the action never stops.

Yhe story starts with a portrait of Zack's arrival into Fulcrum and the 1st chapter begins with Zack on a stakout with a new partner when a Swat team and other police personnel arrive. Their arrival results with Zack watching his partner Perez. The next day as Zack is trying to find out what happened, he is given a new assignment to assist the EPA. Hi is told that he was specifically requested for this.

When Zack arrives at the scene, he meets Olivia the EPA investigator. It seems that a large amount of arsenic had been emptied in the lake and had also gotten in the drinking water. As a result a large number of fish had been killed and several people had died. The evidence all seemed to point to a specific company that had previously been suspected of discharging a large concentration of arsenic. At the same time as this was happening, Zack was assigned a new partner Kelsey. Because of the number of people killed, a representative of the President was assigned to oversee the hunt. Later after the meeting, Zack received a message from an unknown party that he knew Zack's secret and the investigation needed to be shut down. Lucky for Zack, the president of the paint plant committed suicide and left a note. This in essence closed the sase.

A second event occurred which also was a polution event. In this instance a meat processing plant was suspected of being responsible. In this case Zack also received the same sort of message to close the sase down. He did it using evidence that pointed to Olivia's ex. Zack was later following up with the President's man when he was told he needed to go to the Hoover Dam. He was supposed to meet Olivia there, but she didn't show and he wound up being trapped by an explosion. He managed to get out and went searching for Olivia. When he found Olivia, she pointed a gun at him. After gaining control of the situation and talking with Olivia, ZAack knew who the individual was responsible for the polution events as well as the explosion. They determined that there was going to be another major event and went there to prevent it..

To find out who was responsible, why and what the last event entaled, then you need to read this book.
Profile Image for Kim.
508 reviews5 followers
December 21, 2021
👀 Terrifying but mesmerizing…

Water. We all need it; it is essential to all life on this planet. It is also truly frightening to realize that it is such a vulnerable commodity. In this second installment of the Zack Wilder Thriller series, we find Zack, a complex man with a complicated past and a truly startling secret, still reeling from the events of the first book in which he lost his partner. Quite suddenly and unexpectedly, he finds himself mysteriously requested by persons or powers unknown to serve as the FBI liaison with the EPA for the investigation of a water pollution case (something which falls a bit outside his wheelhouse). Furthermore, it has been only days since the death of his partner, when he finds himself assigned a new partner, Special Agent Kelsey Taylor, fresh from maternity leave. Zack and Kelsey, along with EPA inspector Dr. Olivia Bishop, must uncover the underlying cause of the water pollution, find those responsible, and assist in its containment before more lives are lost. The body count rises, the pressure and the tension escalate, and in the midst of this chaos it becomes apparent that Zack’s darkest secret may have been unearthed. What follows is a riveting story about Zack’s desperate attempt to keep his secret from coming to light while he strives to solve this deadly case which highlights some truly disturbing realities about the “progress” that we credit with making our lives easier, safer, and more comfortable. This story stokes the imagination with some alarming possibilities about how future acts of terrorism (or ecoterrorism) may unfold. With great characters, a relentless pace, and plausible threats reflecting actual current issues, the author has crafted a mesmerizing tale that captured my attention from the first page to the last. I am very curious to see what will be in store for Zack in the future.

I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, but I am voluntarily offering my honest and unbiased review.
128 reviews2 followers
January 17, 2022
Review of Water by AJ Croft

This is a swash-buckling story. High energy, engaging characters, events that are timely for this day and age and yet timely anciently and eternally.

Zack was handed over to Fulcrum, a clandestine group, for his education and guidance when he was 4 years old. His honorable life as an adult is led by the training he had received at the hand of his masters.

Now a special agent with the FBI, Zack is working with the EPA to find out who is responsible for two horrendous instances of water pollution that is deadly for fish, mammals and people. He has an FBI partner, Kelsey, together they are working with Olivia, an inspector for the EPA. Predictably, things do not go smoothly and the three of them become embroiled with unscrupulous characters and in questionable situations.

Croft has the gift of putting the reader in the scene. You can see and hear and smell what the characters are experiencing. Often times I found myself in the room, looking from person to person as they spoke.

If you like a fast moving, multi-faceted story, this one is for you.

I highly recommend it.

Fritzi Redgrave
1,493 reviews30 followers
January 21, 2023
More disappointment.

Water, #2 - This book is not an improvement from the first book. It is comparable to watching a really bad, low budget hollywood. Silly dialog and poor characters. Interesting topic and with the right author would have made an interesting read. 1*

The Fulcrum, #1 - Disappointing. Silly dialog. Could care less about the characters. Author not knowledgeable about subject matters although topic was interesting and with the right author would have made an interesting read. Bad hollywood movies influences. Not realistic. 1*

Deepfake, #3 - Finally, finished with this series. Some improvement in story lines, writing style, and characters but the silly dialog still appears here and there. Plenty of hollywood influence with everything working out at the last second. Again, an interesting topic and the author did improve compared to the first two books of this series. 4*

The Lost Spear - Not bad. Interesting characters and story lines. 4*
Profile Image for AR bee.
245 reviews5 followers
December 21, 2021
This is the second book in the Zach Wilder series. The action continues for Zach, his new partner, and a growing relationship with a scientist on his team.

Against a theme of preventing environmental disasters, eco-terrorists are attacking major targets, and the team has to try to keep ahead of an unknown enemy.

In the background, Zach has to balance his involvement in the shadowy group the Fulcrum. Does he seek their help and risk his secret being exposed? Someone already knows and threatens to tell all.

This is a compelling and fast paced mystery thriller. Well worth the read.

[I received a Beta copy of this book and supplied proofreading for the author’s corrections. The Rating and Review are personal and unbiased.]
1,612 reviews32 followers
January 17, 2022
Make sure you read the first novel in the series before trying this one - this novel builds on the first ans you can feel that everything is building to a crescendo!This is the second book in the Zach Wilder series. The action continues for Zach, his new partner, and a growing relationship with a scientist on his team.

Against a theme of preventing environmental disasters, eco-terrorists are attacking major targets, and the team has to try to keep ahead of an unknown enemy. As all of this is occuring in the background, Zach has to balance his involvement in the shadowy group the Fulcrum. Does he seek their help and risk his secret being exposed? Someone already knows and threatens to tell all. This is a compelling and fast paced mystery thriller. YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE!
57 reviews2 followers
January 19, 2022
My thanks to N J Croft for asking me to review her book.
This is the first Zac Wilder book I’ve read and I definitely recommend it. While reading the first book, Fulcrum, may have been useful this book can definitely be read as a stand alone.
Zac Wilder, a troubled loner with a dark secret. Trained at a young age, joining the armed forces and then the FBI.
After losing 2 partners he’s on an assignment which makes him feel more of an eco warrior than an FBI agent as he trails terrorists aiming to kill thousands if not millions of people.
Zac is an interesting, believable character.
A great read, highly recommended. I will certainly be catching up on this character in his subsequent
Assignments.
614 reviews6 followers
January 31, 2024
The world is on his shoulders

A very complicated story. It has been awhile since I last read one of these Zack Wilder stories. I forgot about the Fulcrum. Of course that added to the complexity. Zack struggles with many demons. His past. His present and his future.

He has been burned more than once and he wonders if it is personal. He doesn't want to lose another partner. He now has Olivia as part of his life. And Kelsey, too. He feels responsible for everything bad that has happened.

Zack is assigned to get to the bottom of a sinister plot to destroy the American water supply. Who can he trust? He struggles with this constantly. Thank goodness some good people believe in him and things work out in the end.
1,161 reviews27 followers
January 21, 2022
This is an ARC read and I strongly suggest reading it. It is full of secrets and twists. Zack Wilder is and FBI Agent and a sleeper agent for Fulcrum. He is called in to assist the investigation of a water contamination event. Dr Olivia Bishop is the EPA officer on site, and they have to work together to find out what happened. Then another water contamination happens. Can the two solve whats going on before further catastrophy's occur. Is Zack's secret going to come out and destroy him and Fulcrum. Also, is just one person behind all of this or is it an organization?
Profile Image for Sam.
273 reviews4 followers
February 12, 2022
Clean water is essential and acts of terrorism strike deep and strike fear when water sources are threatened

A diabolical plot to cause long lasting damage the fresh water supply in the United States using a variety of physical threats is nearly successful and thousands die from complications. Great characters, fast action, hidden twists and turns, and a reasonable explanation of current water pollutants, brings a close look into this very serious and threatening ecological scourge. Page-turning action to a surprise ending and well worth the time.
Profile Image for Billie.
5,786 reviews71 followers
December 22, 2021
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
130 reviews3 followers
September 9, 2022
Good book

I’m usually an Apocalyptic type reader but I was in between series and thought, why not’ and I’m glad I did. I don’t normally read books that have any sex in them and these almost don’t, if you blink your eyes. Good plots, colorful characters, and a few secrets to boot. Good job NJ.
56 reviews2 followers
September 15, 2022
Interesting plot

I really enjoyed this. I liked the plot and that despite awful things happening there wasn’t a focus on gore or darkness but more on the fight to protect and find good, not in an artificial sweet way. It would make a good movie. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I’ll be looking for others.
36 reviews2 followers
April 10, 2023
LESS ROMANCE PLEASE

Just finished 2nd book and I really liked it. The only gripe I have with the series is I could have done without everybody checking each other out how how everyone is attracted to Wilder and the highschool "does she/he like me" stuff.
I prefer a lot less romance in the type of books
Profile Image for Annette Mordec.
243 reviews4 followers
May 28, 2023
Pollution

A great way to bring forth the pollution issues we currently face. In this thriller the author talks about both sides of the street, the ones responsible and ones who try to fight them. As we all know this issue will not go away until we all realize how bad it really is. A thriller with real world issues, we'll worth reading.
107 reviews
July 21, 2022
Spellbinding

The action never ends. Just When you have the villian figured out, There's a twist. Also, The plot is wound around a lot of truth regarding our environment problems plaguing us.
6 reviews
July 19, 2023
Keeps your interest to the end

First I have read by the author and so the first in the series for me. I will be trying another. Although it doesn't play a big part of the story, I didn't think the few romance parts were necessary or really added much.
320 reviews3 followers
January 19, 2022
Thank you for the free Arc
This was a great book
Lots of intrigue
Profile Image for Susan Lichtfuss.
212 reviews4 followers
January 27, 2022
Great escape!

This novel has it all. Intriguing plot, characters that are well developed and interesting, and a pace that keeps your eyes glued to the page. Love NJ Croft!
143 reviews3 followers
January 28, 2022
Wow!

This is an eye opener for sure and a read impossible to put down. What a ride! If you haven't read this author yet, get his books and begin now! You won't be sorry!
495 reviews7 followers
August 30, 2022
This book is a great read. Makes you think of how we can stop polluting the planet before we kill ourselves and future generations. This book is well worth reading.
8 reviews
October 23, 2022
Real suspense

This book kept my interest and made me want to get to the next chapter Nd keep up the suspense until the final chapter.
3 reviews
November 22, 2022
Well written

Takes a while to understand what’s going in the early chapters, but builds toward increasing tension with life or death situations
Profile Image for Laurie Robertson.
900 reviews22 followers
January 14, 2022
Brilliant story with obviously well researched content, strong characters, ongoing action, and intrigue.
Environmental concerns are handled in a logical manner which strengthens their validity.
This is the sort of thriller that draws you in right from go.
Loved it.
45 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2022
I really enjoyed reading my arc copy of this book which was published this week. Highlighting environmental issues this is a thriller you shouldn’t miss.

Merged review:

Absolutely loved this book
Got an arc copy and couldn’t put it down. Thriller that also sets you thinking about the environment. Can’t wait to read more in the series
Profile Image for Christine Weald.
217 reviews3 followers
January 14, 2023
This was a fast engaging and provocative read. Some romance and fighting but otherwise a clean story. I recommend reading it and hope nothing like this actually happens.
I leave this review voluntarily.
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