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The Tangled Web
NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
Available Kindle B007Z5Y3ZQ
When top Caribbean reporter Lauren Anderson gets on the trail of a major story involving government ties to drug cartels, she steps into a world where nothing is as it seems. Her aunt, who happens to be a government minister, has some of the answers, but is staying tight lipped. Business magnate Logan Armstrong, a member of the island elite, has some answers, too. But can he be trusted?
When her aunt asks her to deliver a mysterious package while on a trip to London, Lauren finds herself drawn further into the intrigue. As she digs deeper she starts to uncover an international conspiracy involving drug trafficking, hired assassins and deadly political plots. But can Lauren untangle the web before it’s too late? And what is the dark secret she and Armstrong will eventually share?
Available Kindle B007Z5Y3ZQ
When top Caribbean reporter Lauren Anderson gets on the trail of a major story involving government ties to drug cartels, she steps into a world where nothing is as it seems. Her aunt, who happens to be a government minister, has some of the answers, but is staying tight lipped. Business magnate Logan Armstrong, a member of the island elite, has some answers, too. But can he be trusted?
When her aunt asks her to deliver a mysterious package while on a trip to London, Lauren finds herself drawn further into the intrigue. As she digs deeper she starts to uncover an international conspiracy involving drug trafficking, hired assassins and deadly political plots. But can Lauren untangle the web before it’s too late? And what is the dark secret she and Armstrong will eventually share?
- GenresMystery
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2010
6 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
J.P. Lane
2 books100 followersJ.P. Lane was born and raised in Jamaica where she spent her early adult years. Since then, she's lived in London, Southeast Asia, Puerto Rico, and Miami where she was an award-winning writer for The Miami Herald's marketing division. J.P. now resides in rural north Florida not far from the Suwannee River. A history buff and former fashion designer, she blogs about fashion history. She's an avid advocate for wildlife and environmental protection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 14, 2012
The Tangled Web is a fast paced and well told international thriller. I know I’m dating myself, but Ms. Lane’s book reminds me of Helen McInnes’s wonderful espionage thrillers that I used to read back in the seventies when I was in college. (Ms McInnes’s books were in fact written in the second half of the last century, and I stumbled upon them in my parents’ piles of books along with Agatha Christie, Rex Stout and John D. MacDonald.)
I was hooked from the start by the exotic setting(s), international verbage/dialects, and the spy-novel type thrills that run rampant in The Tangled Web.
Ms. Lane’s thriller is set primarily on a Caribbean island, replete with tropical lush scene painting and intriguing local color. The characters who hail from the island range in character and style from rich white landowners to the delightful housekeeper, Ivy, who was one of my favorite (albeit minor) characters.
The dialog felt genuine, as did the frustration experienced by main characters Logan Armstrong (international tycoon) and Lauren Anderson (journalist) as they plummeted through this adventure without being able to fully communicate their feelings or intentions until the very end.
I won’t rehash the plot here—since so many others have done so very thoroughly—but suffice it to say there is great treachery ongoing in the Caribbean political scenes behind the bright and touristy island of blue oceans and heady-scented flowers. The Prime Minister has become corrupt, putting his island’s future in peril due to his links with the drug cartels and his own selfish purposes. Two plots interweave to assassinate this monster–one driven by a truly frightening cartel head, Maria Echevarria, and the other by well-meaning government officials who know that the Prime Minister must go.
I enjoyed this romp across the globe: from New York to London, from Prague to the Caribbean, it held my interest throughout. Well done, Ms. Lane!
Recommended by Aaron Paul Lazar, lazarbooks.com
I was hooked from the start by the exotic setting(s), international verbage/dialects, and the spy-novel type thrills that run rampant in The Tangled Web.
Ms. Lane’s thriller is set primarily on a Caribbean island, replete with tropical lush scene painting and intriguing local color. The characters who hail from the island range in character and style from rich white landowners to the delightful housekeeper, Ivy, who was one of my favorite (albeit minor) characters.
The dialog felt genuine, as did the frustration experienced by main characters Logan Armstrong (international tycoon) and Lauren Anderson (journalist) as they plummeted through this adventure without being able to fully communicate their feelings or intentions until the very end.
I won’t rehash the plot here—since so many others have done so very thoroughly—but suffice it to say there is great treachery ongoing in the Caribbean political scenes behind the bright and touristy island of blue oceans and heady-scented flowers. The Prime Minister has become corrupt, putting his island’s future in peril due to his links with the drug cartels and his own selfish purposes. Two plots interweave to assassinate this monster–one driven by a truly frightening cartel head, Maria Echevarria, and the other by well-meaning government officials who know that the Prime Minister must go.
I enjoyed this romp across the globe: from New York to London, from Prague to the Caribbean, it held my interest throughout. Well done, Ms. Lane!
Recommended by Aaron Paul Lazar, lazarbooks.com
September 24, 2012
A wealth of characters get tangled in J.P. Lane’s A Tangled Web as drugs, violence and corruption flood a beautiful Caribbean island. The intense Englishness of a one-time banana republic is nicely portrayed in the dialog and attitudes of honest police and officials. But a very un-English war is brewing as South American contacts move their illegal wares. When innocent tourists get caught in the cross-fire, the cover-up uncovers more than it hides.
Not really a beach novel, this story has the sort of complex plot that require careful and undistracted attention from the reader. New protagonists appear with each new chapter and wait to be slotted into place. New plot twists leak from a phone call, secret message or wrong turn of phrase. And the good guys are as hard to identify as strangers in line at immigration.
Appropriately, I read this story on a plane heading to England. The author’s description of Border Control rings very true, and the novel’s characters felt very like those strangers in line with me. The author is quick to tell the surface of her characters’ thoughts, adding backstories and well-researched historical detail, but keeping what lies beneath as mystery, waiting its time.
Quick switches in point of view reminded me of English writing more than American—appropriate given the English background and history. The romantic thread and entanglement is nicely done, and journalist Lauren becomes a quite enjoyable protagonist as the story progresses into fights against gangsters, politicians and assassins, and especially as Lauren’s love succumbs to doubt. The novel speeds up when the tangles ease, but its beginnings might require patience to follow this very tangled web.
Disclosure: I was lucky enough to get a free ecopy when this novel was offered on a deal.
Not really a beach novel, this story has the sort of complex plot that require careful and undistracted attention from the reader. New protagonists appear with each new chapter and wait to be slotted into place. New plot twists leak from a phone call, secret message or wrong turn of phrase. And the good guys are as hard to identify as strangers in line at immigration.
Appropriately, I read this story on a plane heading to England. The author’s description of Border Control rings very true, and the novel’s characters felt very like those strangers in line with me. The author is quick to tell the surface of her characters’ thoughts, adding backstories and well-researched historical detail, but keeping what lies beneath as mystery, waiting its time.
Quick switches in point of view reminded me of English writing more than American—appropriate given the English background and history. The romantic thread and entanglement is nicely done, and journalist Lauren becomes a quite enjoyable protagonist as the story progresses into fights against gangsters, politicians and assassins, and especially as Lauren’s love succumbs to doubt. The novel speeds up when the tangles ease, but its beginnings might require patience to follow this very tangled web.
Disclosure: I was lucky enough to get a free ecopy when this novel was offered on a deal.
May 19, 2012
When is murder justified?
What would you do to protect your country? If you were in Germany when Hitler was alive, would you consider assassinating the mad man? This novel delves into the political intrigue surrounding such a decision. The "island" located somewhere in the Caribbean is in a downward spiral, and the government does nothing to curtail the problem. Drug runners and pirates wreak havoc on ordinary citizens but too much money flows into a powerful South American drug cartel.
Several murders attract the attention of investigative report, Lauren Anderson. The story follows Lauren as she tries to unravel a "tangled web" of deceit that affects people she knows and loves. She learns details about the grisly murders of people on a private yacht and a C.I.D. detective, but is she prepared to break the whole story? Logan Armstrong is a wealthy man with a long family history on the island. Is he willing to risk his wealth and family name to save his country? He's falling in love with Lauren but it's a dangerous relationship to pursue.
The characters are so well-developed that you're biting your nails to see how they survive the turmoil in their lives. Lane is a skillful writer who knows how to keep a reader's interest to the very last page. It's a complicated plot but she ties up all the loose ends with a satisfactory conclusion. Don't wait, buy this book today.
What would you do to protect your country? If you were in Germany when Hitler was alive, would you consider assassinating the mad man? This novel delves into the political intrigue surrounding such a decision. The "island" located somewhere in the Caribbean is in a downward spiral, and the government does nothing to curtail the problem. Drug runners and pirates wreak havoc on ordinary citizens but too much money flows into a powerful South American drug cartel.
Several murders attract the attention of investigative report, Lauren Anderson. The story follows Lauren as she tries to unravel a "tangled web" of deceit that affects people she knows and loves. She learns details about the grisly murders of people on a private yacht and a C.I.D. detective, but is she prepared to break the whole story? Logan Armstrong is a wealthy man with a long family history on the island. Is he willing to risk his wealth and family name to save his country? He's falling in love with Lauren but it's a dangerous relationship to pursue.
The characters are so well-developed that you're biting your nails to see how they survive the turmoil in their lives. Lane is a skillful writer who knows how to keep a reader's interest to the very last page. It's a complicated plot but she ties up all the loose ends with a satisfactory conclusion. Don't wait, buy this book today.
May 15, 2014
This fast-paced, action-packed thriller gripped me from the very beginning, keeping up and never slaking its pace till the very end, in the most satisfying of manners.
From the first pages I was transported to the beautiful sunny Jamaica and the Caribbean seas, all sparkling with attraction and danger, just like the local life and politics did. The characters were all three-dimensional and more, very much alive and kicking, not standardized or stigmatic, no purely bad guys or good guys, or gals, not in this novel. They were all human, with human urges and weaknesses, with the need to do what has to be done, not always the "right" thing. To follow the bad guys was as fascinating as to follow the good ones, something I appreciate in the good story the most - the humanness of the characters.
As for the plot, it rushed on in the right pace for me, keeping me fascinated and wishing to know what will happen next.
Not a reader of thrillers, I enjoyed this one greatly and would read more by this author.
From the first pages I was transported to the beautiful sunny Jamaica and the Caribbean seas, all sparkling with attraction and danger, just like the local life and politics did. The characters were all three-dimensional and more, very much alive and kicking, not standardized or stigmatic, no purely bad guys or good guys, or gals, not in this novel. They were all human, with human urges and weaknesses, with the need to do what has to be done, not always the "right" thing. To follow the bad guys was as fascinating as to follow the good ones, something I appreciate in the good story the most - the humanness of the characters.
As for the plot, it rushed on in the right pace for me, keeping me fascinated and wishing to know what will happen next.
Not a reader of thrillers, I enjoyed this one greatly and would read more by this author.
May 7, 2012
The Tangled Web: J.P. Lane
One decision would change the course of more than just the lives of those on this boat. When followed by vessel known as a Cigarette the passengers being followed allowed one man to board on the pretence of wanting some ice. Just what happens in a flash would change the course of events and five lives would be taken but why? One man Logan Armstrong knows the answer but has not revealed why so many had to die at his hand. Back on shore he meets with another man who has information that would further clarify more situations.
The niece of the Minister of France is summoned to her home for a special reason. Asked to deliver a package to London to an unknown recipient Lauren Armstrong has to decide whether to assist her aunt in this mission. Thinking about it she reflects that it has to do with the government but a quick and rash decision cannot be made.
Mike Graham and Logan Armstrong are friends and Mike has some information that is secret and can only be revealed to Logan. Just how all of these webs and threads fit together will only be learned when I continue my review of The Tangled Web which captures the reader’s interest and snares you right into tightly woven web that the author has creatively weaved from the first page. As we get to know Logan and reporter Lauren Anderson the web gets more tangled as each one hopes that the other will reveal information needed to find out what happened to the passengers on the McGuire boat and who is behind the drugs and corruption in the government. One detective would pay the ultimate price as his cover is blown when he realized that cocaine was being transshipped through the port and where and who was involved would revert back to someone close to Logan. Could someone have infiltrated the Criminal Investigation Department and just how far up does it go? How can we link this to the package that Lauren is supposed to deliver for her aunt? When all is said and done will the web get longer or remain so tangled is will never unravel? Lauren invited to meet Logan’s sister and brother-in-law in order to cover their party just might find out more than she bargained for. Next, we meet the Deputy Prime Minister and Frank Sterling the Minister of National Security and Defense. As Lauren relates all of the players are present at this party but just what part do they all play in this web of deceit and lies has yet to be unraveled or revealed. Mike Graham and Virginia Matthews have a definite history one that she cannot seem to forget. A master at manipulating situations as she managed to get both Lauren and Logan to remain overnight after her huge gala and more of the pieces would start fitting together we hope but just how wait and see as Gordon was sort of blindsided by her when finding out he had house guests.
As Lauren questioned the portrait in the guest room where she spent the night, Logan flashes back to his time at Bishop’s College and the reasons for his expulsion. One parent floored and upset, and the other hoping he will change his ways. Success is what Logan is all about so just maybe he might have learned something. Next, an important player is introduced as we meet the Prime Minister himself Erick Freeman whose morning is destroyed when made aware of a serious situation and decisions involving his three ministers would have to be made. Just what part does he play in all of this and why is his government unable to control all of the crime and murders taking place in his country. Threats were being issued all over to many top officials including the Prime Minister and the head of Criminal Investigations. Slaughters, murders, cover-ups and many lives lost because procedures were not followed, greed got in the way and one Caribbean country became riddled with crime you could barely see through the dense fog and fires that often lit up the sky. C.I.D Chief Inspector Robert Palmer knew that it was by a stroke of luck he had come upon the evidence needed that someone in the government was corrupt and cost his detective his life and he needed to watch more than just his back. Author J.P. Lane has set the stage with her expert craftsmanship and intricate where many players who think they are strong will learn at the hand of others they are not. Some fall prey to the wiles of women while others fall prey to the brilliance of this author who weaves a dangerous plot for each one of them hoping that the maze will allow them a solid path of escape. But, just who comes out alive and who won’t remains to be seen. Who will bring down some powerful government officials and how will they do it? Who is the man that is working with those involved and how will they pull it off in order to bring some respectability back into the country and hopefully rid them of all the drug trafficking. Just who can be trusted? What about the Prime Minister and just what was Lauren’s aunt really into?
The plot really gets more intricate as many other players are brought into it and the reader begins to wonder just who can really be trusted and who was behind the murders of five innocent people that let to more than just their deaths. A seaplane, cigarette boats, Fisherman’s Key and a powerful drug cartel able to buy off some really powerful people added to the suspense is a conversation Lauren over heard that sent her reeling from her aunt’s house. Yet, an invitation from Logan would change it all for both him and Lauren. Would the police end the search for the killers by finding out who is really behind the murders? Would they be able to stop what both sides have planned? Detective Doran is on the case and is trying to sort out what really happened that day that caused five innocent people to be killed at the marina.
The Prime Minister is assassinated and chaos breaks out. Just who decided to take him out you won’t believe. Erick Freeman was not exactly the epitome of what a minister should be nor did he have the ethics one needed for the job. The murder being investigated and two ministers resigned. Logan concerned about Lauren and end game about to be played when a definite twist the plot occurs as the web just might entangle a bit but the ending will leave room for much more. What happens between Logan and Lauren when certain realities come to light? Just who is behind the murders and what will happen to those involved? Where will the killer strike next and just when will the drug cartel be taken down? The answers to these questions will only be answered when you read this fast paced definitely well written book with more surprises than you will expect and an ending that leads the reader to hope that Logan, Lauren and the entire cast of characters might be back for more. Loyalties are tested and friendships are frayed as the truths come out and the police try to close in on a killer. But, will they? Author J.P. Lane keeps the reader on edge from page one until you read the last page and find out the dramatic ending. But, is this over? Only the author knows the answer to that. The Tangled Web: One book that deserves FIVE MORE TANGLES TO KEEP THE PLOT GOING!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
One decision would change the course of more than just the lives of those on this boat. When followed by vessel known as a Cigarette the passengers being followed allowed one man to board on the pretence of wanting some ice. Just what happens in a flash would change the course of events and five lives would be taken but why? One man Logan Armstrong knows the answer but has not revealed why so many had to die at his hand. Back on shore he meets with another man who has information that would further clarify more situations.
The niece of the Minister of France is summoned to her home for a special reason. Asked to deliver a package to London to an unknown recipient Lauren Armstrong has to decide whether to assist her aunt in this mission. Thinking about it she reflects that it has to do with the government but a quick and rash decision cannot be made.
Mike Graham and Logan Armstrong are friends and Mike has some information that is secret and can only be revealed to Logan. Just how all of these webs and threads fit together will only be learned when I continue my review of The Tangled Web which captures the reader’s interest and snares you right into tightly woven web that the author has creatively weaved from the first page. As we get to know Logan and reporter Lauren Anderson the web gets more tangled as each one hopes that the other will reveal information needed to find out what happened to the passengers on the McGuire boat and who is behind the drugs and corruption in the government. One detective would pay the ultimate price as his cover is blown when he realized that cocaine was being transshipped through the port and where and who was involved would revert back to someone close to Logan. Could someone have infiltrated the Criminal Investigation Department and just how far up does it go? How can we link this to the package that Lauren is supposed to deliver for her aunt? When all is said and done will the web get longer or remain so tangled is will never unravel? Lauren invited to meet Logan’s sister and brother-in-law in order to cover their party just might find out more than she bargained for. Next, we meet the Deputy Prime Minister and Frank Sterling the Minister of National Security and Defense. As Lauren relates all of the players are present at this party but just what part do they all play in this web of deceit and lies has yet to be unraveled or revealed. Mike Graham and Virginia Matthews have a definite history one that she cannot seem to forget. A master at manipulating situations as she managed to get both Lauren and Logan to remain overnight after her huge gala and more of the pieces would start fitting together we hope but just how wait and see as Gordon was sort of blindsided by her when finding out he had house guests.
As Lauren questioned the portrait in the guest room where she spent the night, Logan flashes back to his time at Bishop’s College and the reasons for his expulsion. One parent floored and upset, and the other hoping he will change his ways. Success is what Logan is all about so just maybe he might have learned something. Next, an important player is introduced as we meet the Prime Minister himself Erick Freeman whose morning is destroyed when made aware of a serious situation and decisions involving his three ministers would have to be made. Just what part does he play in all of this and why is his government unable to control all of the crime and murders taking place in his country. Threats were being issued all over to many top officials including the Prime Minister and the head of Criminal Investigations. Slaughters, murders, cover-ups and many lives lost because procedures were not followed, greed got in the way and one Caribbean country became riddled with crime you could barely see through the dense fog and fires that often lit up the sky. C.I.D Chief Inspector Robert Palmer knew that it was by a stroke of luck he had come upon the evidence needed that someone in the government was corrupt and cost his detective his life and he needed to watch more than just his back. Author J.P. Lane has set the stage with her expert craftsmanship and intricate where many players who think they are strong will learn at the hand of others they are not. Some fall prey to the wiles of women while others fall prey to the brilliance of this author who weaves a dangerous plot for each one of them hoping that the maze will allow them a solid path of escape. But, just who comes out alive and who won’t remains to be seen. Who will bring down some powerful government officials and how will they do it? Who is the man that is working with those involved and how will they pull it off in order to bring some respectability back into the country and hopefully rid them of all the drug trafficking. Just who can be trusted? What about the Prime Minister and just what was Lauren’s aunt really into?
The plot really gets more intricate as many other players are brought into it and the reader begins to wonder just who can really be trusted and who was behind the murders of five innocent people that let to more than just their deaths. A seaplane, cigarette boats, Fisherman’s Key and a powerful drug cartel able to buy off some really powerful people added to the suspense is a conversation Lauren over heard that sent her reeling from her aunt’s house. Yet, an invitation from Logan would change it all for both him and Lauren. Would the police end the search for the killers by finding out who is really behind the murders? Would they be able to stop what both sides have planned? Detective Doran is on the case and is trying to sort out what really happened that day that caused five innocent people to be killed at the marina.
The Prime Minister is assassinated and chaos breaks out. Just who decided to take him out you won’t believe. Erick Freeman was not exactly the epitome of what a minister should be nor did he have the ethics one needed for the job. The murder being investigated and two ministers resigned. Logan concerned about Lauren and end game about to be played when a definite twist the plot occurs as the web just might entangle a bit but the ending will leave room for much more. What happens between Logan and Lauren when certain realities come to light? Just who is behind the murders and what will happen to those involved? Where will the killer strike next and just when will the drug cartel be taken down? The answers to these questions will only be answered when you read this fast paced definitely well written book with more surprises than you will expect and an ending that leads the reader to hope that Logan, Lauren and the entire cast of characters might be back for more. Loyalties are tested and friendships are frayed as the truths come out and the police try to close in on a killer. But, will they? Author J.P. Lane keeps the reader on edge from page one until you read the last page and find out the dramatic ending. But, is this over? Only the author knows the answer to that. The Tangled Web: One book that deserves FIVE MORE TANGLES TO KEEP THE PLOT GOING!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
July 4, 2013
The Tangled Web is a thrilling, complex mystery with a large cast of characters. While the action ranges across the globe, most scenes take place on an unnamed Caribbean island.
The story starts with a bang when a Colombian drugs cartel, aided by corrupt Island politicians, tries to muscle in on the Island’s drugs trade. In the process innocent locals are slaughtered. Lauren Andersen, a strong-willed and principled investigative reporter, links the shocking event to a prominent Island family. On a pretext she arranges to interview one family member, Logan Armstrong, an entertainment mogul. She’s attracted to him right away, but initially resists her feelings, suspecting that he’s part of the web of deceit, greed and bribery she’s beginning to uncover.
Lauren becomes further entangled when her favourite Aunt, a government minister on the Island, asks her to deliver a package to London, no questions asked. Against her better judgement, and her fears that she’s being drawn into an unlawful conspiracy, Lauren agrees, but her doubts soon surface. What deadly secret is her Aunt concealing, and is Logan Armstrong part of it? Will his involvement destroy Lauren’s growing love for him? Slowly, she discovers the truth as honest politicians and the drugs cartel battle it out, each employing drastic measures to gain control of the Island.
There are twists and turns aplenty in this suspense-filled story. Throughout, J.P. Lane paints vivid word pictures that bring the locations alive, from the lush tropical scenery to the October chill of a cobbled Prague street. And J.P. Lane writes terrific bad guys. They made the story for me, more so than the on/off romance between Lauren and Logan. The interplay between the beautiful, vicious drugs cartel leader, Maria Echevarria and her lover (and problem fixer), Jorge Rojas, sizzles with passion and menace. Also, there are wonderful portraits of competing assassins: one a clinical and ruthless killer, the other a veteran hit man fulfilling the contract out of fear for his family.
The many character introductions in the first half of the book needed patience and concentration, but once they were over this intriguing story took off. Later in the book I was forced to stop reading a couple of times and search back to rediscover a character’s identity (this tended to happen when they’d been absent for a few chapters). Despite these minor stumbles, The Tangled Web gets five stars from me for J.P. Lane’s breadth of imagination and skill in weaving the strands of this story together in such an exciting way. I’m looking forward to her next novel.
The story starts with a bang when a Colombian drugs cartel, aided by corrupt Island politicians, tries to muscle in on the Island’s drugs trade. In the process innocent locals are slaughtered. Lauren Andersen, a strong-willed and principled investigative reporter, links the shocking event to a prominent Island family. On a pretext she arranges to interview one family member, Logan Armstrong, an entertainment mogul. She’s attracted to him right away, but initially resists her feelings, suspecting that he’s part of the web of deceit, greed and bribery she’s beginning to uncover.
Lauren becomes further entangled when her favourite Aunt, a government minister on the Island, asks her to deliver a package to London, no questions asked. Against her better judgement, and her fears that she’s being drawn into an unlawful conspiracy, Lauren agrees, but her doubts soon surface. What deadly secret is her Aunt concealing, and is Logan Armstrong part of it? Will his involvement destroy Lauren’s growing love for him? Slowly, she discovers the truth as honest politicians and the drugs cartel battle it out, each employing drastic measures to gain control of the Island.
There are twists and turns aplenty in this suspense-filled story. Throughout, J.P. Lane paints vivid word pictures that bring the locations alive, from the lush tropical scenery to the October chill of a cobbled Prague street. And J.P. Lane writes terrific bad guys. They made the story for me, more so than the on/off romance between Lauren and Logan. The interplay between the beautiful, vicious drugs cartel leader, Maria Echevarria and her lover (and problem fixer), Jorge Rojas, sizzles with passion and menace. Also, there are wonderful portraits of competing assassins: one a clinical and ruthless killer, the other a veteran hit man fulfilling the contract out of fear for his family.
The many character introductions in the first half of the book needed patience and concentration, but once they were over this intriguing story took off. Later in the book I was forced to stop reading a couple of times and search back to rediscover a character’s identity (this tended to happen when they’d been absent for a few chapters). Despite these minor stumbles, The Tangled Web gets five stars from me for J.P. Lane’s breadth of imagination and skill in weaving the strands of this story together in such an exciting way. I’m looking forward to her next novel.
August 17, 2012
This thriller was loaded with suspense and action. Right from the start, the ride begins and it doesn't let up until the very last page, and even then, you are left with a feeling that the story doesn't end there...
J.P. Lane's writing is eloquent and incredibly descriptive, as she takes the reader on a trip around the world. Painting pictures so vividly with her words, that you may find yourself wishing you could plan a trip to visit the Caribbean to see the stunning scenery with your own eyes one minute, while then vowing to never go there the next, out of fear you may get murdered or worse in the midst of the crime and corruption that seems to breed there. This of course is fantastic for the story...but perhaps not so much for tourism on the islands...
The obvious favorites amongst the characters are no doubt Logan and Lauren, however I found myself also taking a liking to one of the side stories involving Mike and Virginia. No matter where you turn in this book, the diversity and details are superb, offering something for everyone and leaving no one behind. There isn't just one storyline, there are several. Each of which will have you hooked before you even realize you've been derailed, ensuring that you don't know a single strand of the mystery until J.P. Lane decides it's time.
My advice, don't fly too close to the web unless you plan to get caught. Once you're in...there's only one way out!
J.P. Lane's writing is eloquent and incredibly descriptive, as she takes the reader on a trip around the world. Painting pictures so vividly with her words, that you may find yourself wishing you could plan a trip to visit the Caribbean to see the stunning scenery with your own eyes one minute, while then vowing to never go there the next, out of fear you may get murdered or worse in the midst of the crime and corruption that seems to breed there. This of course is fantastic for the story...but perhaps not so much for tourism on the islands...
The obvious favorites amongst the characters are no doubt Logan and Lauren, however I found myself also taking a liking to one of the side stories involving Mike and Virginia. No matter where you turn in this book, the diversity and details are superb, offering something for everyone and leaving no one behind. There isn't just one storyline, there are several. Each of which will have you hooked before you even realize you've been derailed, ensuring that you don't know a single strand of the mystery until J.P. Lane decides it's time.
My advice, don't fly too close to the web unless you plan to get caught. Once you're in...there's only one way out!
May 18, 2012
When is murder justified?
What would you do to protect your country? If you were in Germany when Hitler was alive, would you consider assassinating the mad man? This novel delves into the political intrigue surrounding such a decision. The "island" located somewhere in the Caribbean is in a downward spiral, and the government does nothing to curtail the problem. Drug runners and pirates wreak havoc on ordinary citizens but too much money flows into a powerful South American drug cartel.
Several murders attract the attention of investigative report, Lauren Anderson. The story follows Lauren as she tries to unravel a "tangled web" of deceit that affects people she knows and loves. She learns details about the grisly murders of people on a private yacht and a C.I.D. detective, but is she prepared to break the whole story? Logan Armstrong is a wealthy man with a long family history on the island. Is he willing to risk his wealth and family name to save his country? He's falling in love with Lauren but it's a dangerous relationship to pursue.
The characters are so well-developed that you're biting your nails to see how they survive the turmoil in their lives. Lane is a skillful writer who knows how to keep a reader's interest to the very last page. It's a complicated plot but she ties up all the loose ends with a satisfactory conclusion. Don't wait, buy this book today
What would you do to protect your country? If you were in Germany when Hitler was alive, would you consider assassinating the mad man? This novel delves into the political intrigue surrounding such a decision. The "island" located somewhere in the Caribbean is in a downward spiral, and the government does nothing to curtail the problem. Drug runners and pirates wreak havoc on ordinary citizens but too much money flows into a powerful South American drug cartel.
Several murders attract the attention of investigative report, Lauren Anderson. The story follows Lauren as she tries to unravel a "tangled web" of deceit that affects people she knows and loves. She learns details about the grisly murders of people on a private yacht and a C.I.D. detective, but is she prepared to break the whole story? Logan Armstrong is a wealthy man with a long family history on the island. Is he willing to risk his wealth and family name to save his country? He's falling in love with Lauren but it's a dangerous relationship to pursue.
The characters are so well-developed that you're biting your nails to see how they survive the turmoil in their lives. Lane is a skillful writer who knows how to keep a reader's interest to the very last page. It's a complicated plot but she ties up all the loose ends with a satisfactory conclusion. Don't wait, buy this book today
June 17, 2012
There's trouble in paradise and it's up to a handful of the hierarchy to contain the problems. How they plan to accomplish this task is a matter of extreme sensitivity.
Lauren Anderson is a nosy reporter. She's also the niece of an important government official. Her Aunt Maggie is Minister of Finance of the exotic island they call home. As a favor to her aunt, she gets involved in a tangled web of conspiracy.
Logan Armstrong is among the rich and elite of the island's upper class. There's an air of mystery around him that attracts Lauren when she goes out to interview him. What is it about the handsome, sexy, playboy that makes Lauren want to pull him close as well as push him away?
"The Tangled Web" is a wonderfully crafted novel of love, romance, assassins and intrigue. The characters are well rounded and the plot compelling. In fact, I think I fell a little bit in love (lust) with Logan myself as he pursued and charmed Lauren.
I highly recommend "The Tangled Web" by JP Lane for anyone who likes their romance spiced up with political intrigue that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
Lauren Anderson is a nosy reporter. She's also the niece of an important government official. Her Aunt Maggie is Minister of Finance of the exotic island they call home. As a favor to her aunt, she gets involved in a tangled web of conspiracy.
Logan Armstrong is among the rich and elite of the island's upper class. There's an air of mystery around him that attracts Lauren when she goes out to interview him. What is it about the handsome, sexy, playboy that makes Lauren want to pull him close as well as push him away?
"The Tangled Web" is a wonderfully crafted novel of love, romance, assassins and intrigue. The characters are well rounded and the plot compelling. In fact, I think I fell a little bit in love (lust) with Logan myself as he pursued and charmed Lauren.
I highly recommend "The Tangled Web" by JP Lane for anyone who likes their romance spiced up with political intrigue that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
January 16, 2013
Drugs, Jamaica, Good people doing bad things, bad people doing unspeakable things. Somehow a man and women connect and attempt to form a relationship. The girl is not sure. (Are they ever?) A guy's gotta do what a guy's gotta do. Slick politicains get what they deserve. Good twists and turns. You do not have to be on drugs to follow. But a glass of wine would be nice.
Good triumphs over evil until the very clever ending. Two beautiful snakes develop an attraction that cannot be shown on TV. Hoping for a sequel.
Pretty sure I didn't give it away too much but it was tangled so go out immediately and buy it. The Tangled Web: an international web of intrigue, murder and romance
Good triumphs over evil until the very clever ending. Two beautiful snakes develop an attraction that cannot be shown on TV. Hoping for a sequel.
Pretty sure I didn't give it away too much but it was tangled so go out immediately and buy it. The Tangled Web: an international web of intrigue, murder and romance
July 17, 2014
J.P. Lane Captures the Imagination!
With “The Tangled Web”, J.P. Lane has weaved a story that spans continents and encompasses characters and personalities as intriguing as her plot. The principal location is a Caribbean island of the author’s own invention where paradise is inextricably entangled with political corruption, drug trafficking, and murder; a way of life that has existed for generations. Is the island destined to continue on this ruinous, despotic path? Those who seek justice and change will follow treacherous leads to bring down the island’s criminal elite, and weave their own deadly web in the process.
Investigative reporter Lauren Anderson knows she is on the verge of uncovering a major story that will tie the island’s corrupt government and prime minister to drug cartels and murder. She follows her leads and finds herself ensnared in an international conspiracy, a tangled web that stretches from the Caribbean to New York, London, and Prague. The web is intricate and the more Lauren tries to untangle it, the more entrapped she becomes. Is anyone innocent in this crime drama? Maybe Lauren’s aunt, Margaret…but did she betray her niece? What about the enigmatic tycoon Logan Armstrong? His future is tied to Lauren’s more than either can imagine, yet how deep are his ties to the island’s criminal elite? And Lauren, might she herself be implicated in murder for having unwittingly aided an assassin?
Justice is elusive in “The Tangled Web”, though change is inevitable. Even as the island’s future seems inextricably tied to its despotic past, Lauren and Logan will rediscover themselves, reinvent themselves within the threads of J.P. Lane’s plot, a novel that combines all the elements of crime, drama, and romance and captures the imagination.
Seve Verdad--author
With “The Tangled Web”, J.P. Lane has weaved a story that spans continents and encompasses characters and personalities as intriguing as her plot. The principal location is a Caribbean island of the author’s own invention where paradise is inextricably entangled with political corruption, drug trafficking, and murder; a way of life that has existed for generations. Is the island destined to continue on this ruinous, despotic path? Those who seek justice and change will follow treacherous leads to bring down the island’s criminal elite, and weave their own deadly web in the process.
Investigative reporter Lauren Anderson knows she is on the verge of uncovering a major story that will tie the island’s corrupt government and prime minister to drug cartels and murder. She follows her leads and finds herself ensnared in an international conspiracy, a tangled web that stretches from the Caribbean to New York, London, and Prague. The web is intricate and the more Lauren tries to untangle it, the more entrapped she becomes. Is anyone innocent in this crime drama? Maybe Lauren’s aunt, Margaret…but did she betray her niece? What about the enigmatic tycoon Logan Armstrong? His future is tied to Lauren’s more than either can imagine, yet how deep are his ties to the island’s criminal elite? And Lauren, might she herself be implicated in murder for having unwittingly aided an assassin?
Justice is elusive in “The Tangled Web”, though change is inevitable. Even as the island’s future seems inextricably tied to its despotic past, Lauren and Logan will rediscover themselves, reinvent themselves within the threads of J.P. Lane’s plot, a novel that combines all the elements of crime, drama, and romance and captures the imagination.
Seve Verdad--author
July 20, 2012
"The Tangled Web" by Author J. P. Lane captivated my attention right at the onset. This mystery novel is chock full of intrigue and suspense starting with the murders of a group of people out on an innocent fishing expedition who just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The main storyline takes place on a beautiful Caribbean Island with a corrupt government which facilitates the shipment of illegal drugs from Columbia. The author does a masterful job of connecting all the dots in this well-written mystery novel. In order to rid this majestic island of its crime, a few government ministers become vigilantes after their own lives have been threatened and decide to take the law into their own hands. Unbeknownst to them, there is a second assassination plot taking place on the same man at the same time, the Prime Minister himself.
There are plenty of players involved to enjoyably add to the many twists and turns, suspense, and conspiracy that take place in this thrilling mystery novel. The main characters, Lauren Anderson, a reporter for the local daily newspaper, and wealthy business magnate, Logan Armstrong cross paths early on and are romantically drawn together despite all the subterfuge taking place. I like the fact that the author didn't overstate their attraction to each other and kept their romance secondary to the main assassination plot. I also like the cliffhanger at the end. This novel is an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more books by this talented author!
The main storyline takes place on a beautiful Caribbean Island with a corrupt government which facilitates the shipment of illegal drugs from Columbia. The author does a masterful job of connecting all the dots in this well-written mystery novel. In order to rid this majestic island of its crime, a few government ministers become vigilantes after their own lives have been threatened and decide to take the law into their own hands. Unbeknownst to them, there is a second assassination plot taking place on the same man at the same time, the Prime Minister himself.
There are plenty of players involved to enjoyably add to the many twists and turns, suspense, and conspiracy that take place in this thrilling mystery novel. The main characters, Lauren Anderson, a reporter for the local daily newspaper, and wealthy business magnate, Logan Armstrong cross paths early on and are romantically drawn together despite all the subterfuge taking place. I like the fact that the author didn't overstate their attraction to each other and kept their romance secondary to the main assassination plot. I also like the cliffhanger at the end. This novel is an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more books by this talented author!
June 2, 2013
Like a spiders web this is a well woven story of intrigue, corruption and the matter of who will solve the problem of Governmental greed and subterfuge.
The Prime Minister of a small yet beautiful Caribbean island is as corrupt and greedy as the day is long. Can a man be so power hungry that he is willing to let his own country get swallowed by a world of drugs and let the have nots suffer in poverty while the wealthy and elite benefit from the crime that results from it.
Can a small group of government officials take matters into their own hands to rid the country of a scourge who will drag them into poverty and crime. Can a Cartel insenced by his greed come to the conclusion that he needs to be cut out of the equation? The question remains as to which group will beat the other to the punch.
Meanwhile love is in the air between Lauren and Logan who have been dragged into the middle of the web with no way out but to go along with a horrible but necessary ride.
Can the police solve the murders of five tourists and an undercover police officer trying to catch the drug smugglers at their own game? Maybe but I am saying you need to buckle up an prepare for extreme turbulence on this trip.
J.P. Lane has penned a riveting tale of corruption, murder and greed with great talent. There are a lot of players coming to the party so you need a score card but that just adds to the excitement. I give this one five golden palm trees for grabbing my attention and not letting me turn off the tablet. Kudos for faced paced storytelling and a hot plot.
The Prime Minister of a small yet beautiful Caribbean island is as corrupt and greedy as the day is long. Can a man be so power hungry that he is willing to let his own country get swallowed by a world of drugs and let the have nots suffer in poverty while the wealthy and elite benefit from the crime that results from it.
Can a small group of government officials take matters into their own hands to rid the country of a scourge who will drag them into poverty and crime. Can a Cartel insenced by his greed come to the conclusion that he needs to be cut out of the equation? The question remains as to which group will beat the other to the punch.
Meanwhile love is in the air between Lauren and Logan who have been dragged into the middle of the web with no way out but to go along with a horrible but necessary ride.
Can the police solve the murders of five tourists and an undercover police officer trying to catch the drug smugglers at their own game? Maybe but I am saying you need to buckle up an prepare for extreme turbulence on this trip.
J.P. Lane has penned a riveting tale of corruption, murder and greed with great talent. There are a lot of players coming to the party so you need a score card but that just adds to the excitement. I give this one five golden palm trees for grabbing my attention and not letting me turn off the tablet. Kudos for faced paced storytelling and a hot plot.
December 9, 2012
Tangled Web took me to another part of the world and let me become involved in the politics of the place. Something that is always enjoyable to experience.
Ms. Lane knows her Jamaican culture and uses it effectively to put the reader in the heart of the island and get to know few of the characters who make up this story. Reading this I get the feeling the events of the story portrayed might’ve happened.
In the story, the government of Jamaica is full of corruption. One of the effluent citizens and a couple of cabinet members of the government decide to take matters into their own hands hoping to set the Island and its people on a better path.
The plot is well drawn out with a couple of twists to keep the reader guessing.
I couldn’t give this story five stars for a couple of reasons. There were a couple of back stories I questioned why they needed to be there. Another was character points of views sometimes shifted in chapter or section without a break signifying we’d be reading from another’s point of view. If the story had been written entirely in an omniscience point of view, this would be understandable. But the majority of the story was written in third person limited point of view.
The other reason was dialog tags with adverbs were used to describe a character’s empathsis. An example would be: he said to her fondly.
Other than my minor criticisms, I enjoyed reading this international spy, romantic tale. I look forward to Ms. Lane��s next story.
Ms. Lane knows her Jamaican culture and uses it effectively to put the reader in the heart of the island and get to know few of the characters who make up this story. Reading this I get the feeling the events of the story portrayed might’ve happened.
In the story, the government of Jamaica is full of corruption. One of the effluent citizens and a couple of cabinet members of the government decide to take matters into their own hands hoping to set the Island and its people on a better path.
The plot is well drawn out with a couple of twists to keep the reader guessing.
I couldn’t give this story five stars for a couple of reasons. There were a couple of back stories I questioned why they needed to be there. Another was character points of views sometimes shifted in chapter or section without a break signifying we’d be reading from another’s point of view. If the story had been written entirely in an omniscience point of view, this would be understandable. But the majority of the story was written in third person limited point of view.
The other reason was dialog tags with adverbs were used to describe a character’s empathsis. An example would be: he said to her fondly.
Other than my minor criticisms, I enjoyed reading this international spy, romantic tale. I look forward to Ms. Lane��s next story.
April 4, 2019
This thriller has tourist murders, political machinations of both good (there are some) and corrupt politicians, an assassination, an exotic Caribbean location, no-nonsense drug dealers led by the sexy and dangerous Maria, and a romance between Lauren, an ethical investigative reporter and Logan, a more ethically flexible, wealthy businessman with the future of his country on his mind and Lauren in his heart. Joan Lane has tangled all these together into her complex web with enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing as to the outcome.
The Jamaican-born author was able to carry me along from scene to scene enjoying the tropical flavour of the island, Lauren and Logan’s slowly developing romance and the story’s battling elements. I felt I was there drinking rum on a beach with the characters but there were enough characters already battling one another for control of the island in the plot and there was a good chance I’d get assassinated, paid off to go away or fall prey to Maria’s womanly needs.
The Jamaican-born author was able to carry me along from scene to scene enjoying the tropical flavour of the island, Lauren and Logan’s slowly developing romance and the story’s battling elements. I felt I was there drinking rum on a beach with the characters but there were enough characters already battling one another for control of the island in the plot and there was a good chance I’d get assassinated, paid off to go away or fall prey to Maria’s womanly needs.
February 25, 2013
This is an excellent read. The characters are interesting, with both the protagonists and the antagonists engaging and helping to move the story forward. The book is well written and edited. It flows in a manner that is pleasant and entertaining. This is a book for anybody who likes a good thriller or romance. It focuses on the drug cartels and their influence in the Caribbean and beyond. The book also illustrates the corrupt nature of some of the politicians in Jamaica. Having lived in Jamaica, I particularly enjoyed the storylines involving the Blue Mountains and Kingston. One of my favorite lines from the books is "It had simply been thrown into a closet that stored life's impossibilities until they became buried and forgotten under the dust of time." J.P. Lane is an excellent writer and I am glad I read this book. I look forward to her next novel.
February 17, 2014
The Tangled Web is skillfully written and artistically portrayed to give the reader a vivid picture of the characters and events. The description of the beauty of the island is wonderfully displayed – the corruption within the government is so colorful; not to mention the female crime and drug boss. The story line is so deep and captivating it brings the emotional roller coaster of the thrill and suspense right to your door.
This magnificent novel had me out of my seat and on my feet; it was very difficult to put this book down. J.P Lane certainly knows how to get the readers engaged…Wonderful book looking forward to reading more from you.~@VictoryReviews
This magnificent novel had me out of my seat and on my feet; it was very difficult to put this book down. J.P Lane certainly knows how to get the readers engaged…Wonderful book looking forward to reading more from you.~@VictoryReviews
September 28, 2010
I have read this book twice...enjoyed it greatly and was left wondering what was to happen in what should be a sequel. Great characters, believable scenarios and the feeling that the author had "been there/seen that". I am anxious to see if this book is picked up for a motion picture as it is full of big screen action. I am still haunted by the description of the opening scenes that set the tone of the book. The book was read by fellow vacationers at the beach this summer and even the young male Ukranian graduate of law enforcement was intrigued.
June 18, 2012
I normally always think of something that I would want to see in the book but J.P. Lane has it all. The web sucked me in and wouldn't let me go! I had to finish the book from the time I opened it. As you travel around the world following murders, romance, assassination plots and more you will find yourself just as pumped as the characters trying to find out the mystery's and sort out the tangled web of this story.
A serious MUST READ for anyone that enjoys adventure!
A serious MUST READ for anyone that enjoys adventure!
March 9, 2014
I quite enjoyed this novel, which is a clever mix of romance and suspense. The characters are especially well-fleshed-out, allowing the reader to follow the story from several points of view and to agonize along with the principals about ethical choices they are forced to make. I won’t say more about the plot to avoid spoilers, except to warn that it is indeed a “tangled web,” so pay attention at the beginning to follow the action at the end. But it’s a worthwhile journey to get there.
March 20, 2013
Not your everyday thriller, The Tangled Web delivers on every level -- promised and implied. International drug espionage, an intricate plot to save the soul of an idyllic Caribbean island, and a love affair holds fast to an unbreakable bond of love, lust, and an achingly attraction. The Tangled Web the full ride. Hold on tight!
November 20, 2013
Terrific international thriller with a complex plot--truly a Tangled Web--interesting characters balancing ethics and the need to do the right thing to save an island nation from a corrupt politician, and a lush tropical location that made me want to be there. I have no doubt the political scenario exists. Ms. Lane did a great job of telling the story.
September 29, 2010
Awesome. I find it hard to imagine that this is fiction. This slice of Caribbean life is not often visited. I felt that I was there and have a richer understanding of what goes on. From the upper class to the streets of the underbelly. Thank you, JP Lane, for this suspenseful and enjoyabe read.
April 4, 2013
Fast paced action mixed with some steamy romance this is a quick read for fans on this genre. I liked the main story and the sub plots were fun. Too much head hopping is my only complaint. The author paints the locations exquisitely. You feel like your there.
August 11, 2012
I thought the storyline of this book was great and thoroughly enjoyed the way the plot unfolded. It was full of intrigue and unexpected twists which kept me guessing. The only slight mar for me were the occasional sex scenes which I don't think added to the story.
April 23, 2013
J.P. has delivered a tale of intrigue rich in believable characters, exotic settings and and intricate, though credible plot. It’s not necessarily an easy book, but The Tangled Web is just as likely to ensnare readers as it does its characters.
September 5, 2012
A great read and global trek!
March 21, 2013
Fast-paced, interesting and real events woven into the story makes it an intriguing read?
March 20, 2013
Loved this book. Exciting action with a Caribbean flare. The author's knowledge of her subject shines.
October 30, 2014
A pretty good storyline with good characters.
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