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Masters CIA Thriller #1
3 Lies
At CIA headquarters, a young officer discovers that terrorists may have commandeered their computer systems to launch an unauthorized mission. Elsewhere, conspirators abduct nine people to manipulate the rules of their game. Two disparate ambitions -- Clint Masters becomes the reluctant link in the chain of danger.
Ever since Clint’s almost ex-wife dumped him, he bobs along the Massachusetts coast in a sailboat with his black lab for company. He avoids all forms of technology, which is no mean feat for the burned-out founder of CatSat Laboratories. Tired of clutching the brass ring, he needed to untether, step off the corporate treadmill, and smell a flower. Fortunately, he met one -- Beth, a beautiful, unspoiled woman who doesn’t treat him like a commodity. His relationship with her offers more promise than his marriage ever did, even if she is on dialysis for her recovering kidneys.
Until the day Beth goes missing.
In spite of the evidence, her family refuses to admit she’s in danger. Without routine dialysis, she won’t survive. As Clint realizes that he loves Beth, damn-near ex-wife Paige sashays back into his life with disturbing news.
While the CIA young gun tracks his quarry, Clint enlists the help of two men to find Beth, a blithe Brit named Merlin, and Todd, his playboy partner-in-tech. But Clint has to find Beth before her kidneys fail. And before someone puts a bullet in his head.
Ever since Clint’s almost ex-wife dumped him, he bobs along the Massachusetts coast in a sailboat with his black lab for company. He avoids all forms of technology, which is no mean feat for the burned-out founder of CatSat Laboratories. Tired of clutching the brass ring, he needed to untether, step off the corporate treadmill, and smell a flower. Fortunately, he met one -- Beth, a beautiful, unspoiled woman who doesn’t treat him like a commodity. His relationship with her offers more promise than his marriage ever did, even if she is on dialysis for her recovering kidneys.
Until the day Beth goes missing.
In spite of the evidence, her family refuses to admit she’s in danger. Without routine dialysis, she won’t survive. As Clint realizes that he loves Beth, damn-near ex-wife Paige sashays back into his life with disturbing news.
While the CIA young gun tracks his quarry, Clint enlists the help of two men to find Beth, a blithe Brit named Merlin, and Todd, his playboy partner-in-tech. But Clint has to find Beth before her kidneys fail. And before someone puts a bullet in his head.
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First published December 4, 2010
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About the author
Helen Hanson
24 books207 followersBestselling author Helen Hanson writes thrillers about desperate people with a high-tech bent. Hackers. The CIA. Industry titans. Guys on sailboats. Mobsters. Their personal maelstroms pit them against unrelenting forces willing to kill. Throughout the journey, they try to find some truth, a little humor, and their humanity — from either end of the trigger.
While Helen writes about the power hungry, she genuinely mistrusts anyone who wants to rule the world.
Helen directed operations for high-tech manufacturers of semiconductors, video games, software, and computers. Her reluctant education behind the redwood curtain culminated in a B.S. in Business Administration with concentrated studies in Computer Science. She also learned to play a mean game of hacky sack.
She is a licensed private pilot with a ticket for single-engine aircraft. Helen and her husband spent their first anniversary with their flight instructor studying for the FAA practical. If you were a passenger on a 737 trying to land at SJC in 1995, she sends her most sincere apologies. Really.
Born in fly-over country, Helen has lived on both coasts, near both borders, and at several locations in between. She lettered in tennis, worked as a machinist, and saw the Clash at the San Francisco Civic Auditorium sometime in the eighties. She currently lives amid the bricks of Texas with her husband, son, and a dog that composes music with squeaky toys.
If you enjoy her books, please consider writing a review. If you don’t, please be kind.
For a FREE Thriller, visit HelenHanson.com
While Helen writes about the power hungry, she genuinely mistrusts anyone who wants to rule the world.
Helen directed operations for high-tech manufacturers of semiconductors, video games, software, and computers. Her reluctant education behind the redwood curtain culminated in a B.S. in Business Administration with concentrated studies in Computer Science. She also learned to play a mean game of hacky sack.
She is a licensed private pilot with a ticket for single-engine aircraft. Helen and her husband spent their first anniversary with their flight instructor studying for the FAA practical. If you were a passenger on a 737 trying to land at SJC in 1995, she sends her most sincere apologies. Really.
Born in fly-over country, Helen has lived on both coasts, near both borders, and at several locations in between. She lettered in tennis, worked as a machinist, and saw the Clash at the San Francisco Civic Auditorium sometime in the eighties. She currently lives amid the bricks of Texas with her husband, son, and a dog that composes music with squeaky toys.
If you enjoy her books, please consider writing a review. If you don’t, please be kind.
For a FREE Thriller, visit HelenHanson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
September 3, 2015
An interesting premise hidden under too much technical jargon and waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too much inner thought angst.
March 27, 2011
I recently had the pleasure of reading 3 Lies by Helen Hanson. Right from the start the reader will be reeled in: hook, line and sinker. We meet Beth and Clint who happen to be a new couple. They provide each other stability in this crazy world. Clint is going through a divorce that he so desperately wishes would just hurry and end. Beth must receive dialysis three times a week in order to save her kidneys. They are a breath of fresh air for each other and things look promising. But when Beth is kidnapped and her dialysis machine left at home, Clint must face his feelings and discover the truth in order to save her life. Throw in Clint's soon-to-be ex-wife bringing some life altering news, friendships that may not be what they appear, and masked men bringing threats and you are left with one wild ride. Ms. Hanson's writing style is very likable and easy to follow. If you are looking for a great espionage thriller then look no further and read 3 Lies because you really can't go wrong. This book is suitable for most ages.
June 27, 2011
A Good Book Alert Review: http://goodbookalert.blogspot.com/
3 Lies
Author: Helen Hanson
Genre: Thriller
Rating: 4.5 Stars
3 Lies is an engrossing thriller that presents a novel twist on the "ticking clock" rescue.
Summary:
When Beth, the girlfriend of tech millionaire Clint Masters, disappears, he quickly realizes she's been kidnapped, and that her family is doing little to help track her down. Little does he realize she's involved in a chain of several kidnappings intended to aid a sinister goal. Whether or not the kidnappers harm her doesn't matter much, as without dialysis she'll be dead in days anyway. Now Clint must use all his resources and clout to find his girlfriend, all the while avoiding the inexplicable interference of her powerful relatives.
Review:
After beginning with the kidnapping of Beth, girlfriend of primary protagonist Clint Masters, 3 Lies expertly weaves between a number of different view points, both antagonist and protagonist. In lesser hands, this technique can result in a muddled narrative where the reader can't connect deeply with the character. In this story, however, the story never becomes confused and none of the view points detract from the novel.
There are no superfluous characters in the book. Even the various antagonists are provided very distinct personalities and motivations. They aren't just flat, evil "villains" to be defeated. Their own internal organizational struggles offer another layer of tension to the story. Each different chapter provides information that helps the reader piece together the big picture of what it occurring while still preserving the background suspense and mystery. Nothing ever seems cheap or forced. Given that the various different plot threads and perspectives start out rather distant, I was impressed by how smoothly the author weaved them all together.
While not all the characters are likable, particularly the antagonists, they are all well-developed and engaging. The primary protagonist, Clint, along with several of the secondary protagonists though also happen to be both likable and engaging but without being flawless. In addition, the author explores some of the kidnapping through the point of view of Beth. This added to both the tension by both making the danger to the victims more obvious and by connecting the reader more directly to the victims.
My only minor quibble with the multiple viewpoints was the inclusion, near the third act, of certain short chapters consisting entirely of unattributed dialog. I didn't mind the lack of attribution, as it was obvious that it was to help enhance mystery, but I felt the content of these chapters may have tipped the hand of the author as to the answers of certain mysteries. That being said, even with those chapters, there are plenty surprises throughout the novel.
This story is not, with the exception of a few scenes, a high-action title. Instead, it relies on the steady threat of violence against innocent people and the unusual inclusion of a chronic medical condition to help push forward tension. In addition, for every questions answered, there is a new uncertainty raised helping to maintain the dramatic tension until all the mysteries are cleared up at the end. The author employs taut pacing throughout the story ensuring that the tension never sags even in chapters focused on character dvelopment sub-plots such as the protagonist having to deal with the desire of his ex-wife to reconcile.
In many thrillers, especially those involving any aspect of technology, authors often give in to their worse expository impulses. Though 3 Lies isn't a true techno-thriller, there are several key aspects that deal with things such as satellite technology and computer programming. The author did a fine job of addressing these issues in an understandable way without coming off didactic or uninteresting. When an author can make something as obscure as code commenting seem interesting, you know they are doing something right.
Any fan of thrillers would be doing themselves a disservice by passing up this book.
4.5 Stars
3 Lies
Author: Helen Hanson
Genre: Thriller
Rating: 4.5 Stars
3 Lies is an engrossing thriller that presents a novel twist on the "ticking clock" rescue.
Summary:
When Beth, the girlfriend of tech millionaire Clint Masters, disappears, he quickly realizes she's been kidnapped, and that her family is doing little to help track her down. Little does he realize she's involved in a chain of several kidnappings intended to aid a sinister goal. Whether or not the kidnappers harm her doesn't matter much, as without dialysis she'll be dead in days anyway. Now Clint must use all his resources and clout to find his girlfriend, all the while avoiding the inexplicable interference of her powerful relatives.
Review:
After beginning with the kidnapping of Beth, girlfriend of primary protagonist Clint Masters, 3 Lies expertly weaves between a number of different view points, both antagonist and protagonist. In lesser hands, this technique can result in a muddled narrative where the reader can't connect deeply with the character. In this story, however, the story never becomes confused and none of the view points detract from the novel.
There are no superfluous characters in the book. Even the various antagonists are provided very distinct personalities and motivations. They aren't just flat, evil "villains" to be defeated. Their own internal organizational struggles offer another layer of tension to the story. Each different chapter provides information that helps the reader piece together the big picture of what it occurring while still preserving the background suspense and mystery. Nothing ever seems cheap or forced. Given that the various different plot threads and perspectives start out rather distant, I was impressed by how smoothly the author weaved them all together.
While not all the characters are likable, particularly the antagonists, they are all well-developed and engaging. The primary protagonist, Clint, along with several of the secondary protagonists though also happen to be both likable and engaging but without being flawless. In addition, the author explores some of the kidnapping through the point of view of Beth. This added to both the tension by both making the danger to the victims more obvious and by connecting the reader more directly to the victims.
My only minor quibble with the multiple viewpoints was the inclusion, near the third act, of certain short chapters consisting entirely of unattributed dialog. I didn't mind the lack of attribution, as it was obvious that it was to help enhance mystery, but I felt the content of these chapters may have tipped the hand of the author as to the answers of certain mysteries. That being said, even with those chapters, there are plenty surprises throughout the novel.
This story is not, with the exception of a few scenes, a high-action title. Instead, it relies on the steady threat of violence against innocent people and the unusual inclusion of a chronic medical condition to help push forward tension. In addition, for every questions answered, there is a new uncertainty raised helping to maintain the dramatic tension until all the mysteries are cleared up at the end. The author employs taut pacing throughout the story ensuring that the tension never sags even in chapters focused on character dvelopment sub-plots such as the protagonist having to deal with the desire of his ex-wife to reconcile.
In many thrillers, especially those involving any aspect of technology, authors often give in to their worse expository impulses. Though 3 Lies isn't a true techno-thriller, there are several key aspects that deal with things such as satellite technology and computer programming. The author did a fine job of addressing these issues in an understandable way without coming off didactic or uninteresting. When an author can make something as obscure as code commenting seem interesting, you know they are doing something right.
Any fan of thrillers would be doing themselves a disservice by passing up this book.
4.5 Stars
May 15, 2015
I loved this book! Twists and turns that kept me up late and a few edge of my seat moments too!
I read a lot of books and some are not as good as others unfortunately. On the other hand, it makes me appreciate a great book that much more! And I did appreciate 3 Lies. Mystery, murder, kidnapping, spies and a touch of romance. This was exciting and believable. Normal people caught in extraordinary circumstances. I could see this happening. Kinda scary but true!
I won't give a synopsis as others already have. I will say there are multiple story lines but they are easily kept track of. You won't feel lost in the middle. As I said above this is an exciting and believable adventure.
As a sideline, it also makes you think about technology and how connected you are or even not. Do you miss things right in front of you by being so connected to technology? An engaging question that could be discussed for days, I think.
The characters are normal people caught in extraordinary circumstances. Clint, Beth, Merlin and even Louie are the kind of people I would love to have in my life. That made me feel very connected to them.
A great read I would recommend. The plot is done in an original way and the characters are engaging.
I read a lot of books and some are not as good as others unfortunately. On the other hand, it makes me appreciate a great book that much more! And I did appreciate 3 Lies. Mystery, murder, kidnapping, spies and a touch of romance. This was exciting and believable. Normal people caught in extraordinary circumstances. I could see this happening. Kinda scary but true!
I won't give a synopsis as others already have. I will say there are multiple story lines but they are easily kept track of. You won't feel lost in the middle. As I said above this is an exciting and believable adventure.
As a sideline, it also makes you think about technology and how connected you are or even not. Do you miss things right in front of you by being so connected to technology? An engaging question that could be discussed for days, I think.
The characters are normal people caught in extraordinary circumstances. Clint, Beth, Merlin and even Louie are the kind of people I would love to have in my life. That made me feel very connected to them.
A great read I would recommend. The plot is done in an original way and the characters are engaging.
December 25, 2022
3 lies, is that all?
Reading a title of a book can be misleading or it can tell all. Sometimes you can tell if its a mystery, a murder or something in between. For this book I didn't see treason or espionage as a scope of reality. To me it turned out to be more than 3 lies, It turned out to be about government, friendship, trust and love and yeah murder too. It takes different breaths in between each page, leaving you unsure who to trust, who the villain is and wondering is she really pregnant? 🤔
Reading a title of a book can be misleading or it can tell all. Sometimes you can tell if its a mystery, a murder or something in between. For this book I didn't see treason or espionage as a scope of reality. To me it turned out to be more than 3 lies, It turned out to be about government, friendship, trust and love and yeah murder too. It takes different breaths in between each page, leaving you unsure who to trust, who the villain is and wondering is she really pregnant? 🤔
July 22, 2022
Very good. First book I've read by this author will definately read more. The books are very suspenseful
August 1, 2011
Article first published as Book Review:3-Lies by Helen Hanson on Blogcritics.
Terror has its own vices, where belief creates a certain way of life. Money can even sabotage those intentions, twisting belief of reason to a belief in money. Even the best of intentions change for the ever-elusive dollar.
In 3-Lies by Helen Hanson, we follow the lives of Beth Sutton and her new boyfriend Clint Masters, as well as his faithful dog Louie. Beth is a kind and loving young woman, finding love at a time when her life is not at its best. On dialysis, she has not kept her diagnosis a secret from Clint, allowing him to know everything about her from the start. Beginning a relationship with secrets is in no way acceptable to her or her way of life. If he can deal this this than she understands, he can deal with anything.
Kidnapped in a bizarre scheme by a group of terrorists in an effort to blackmail the Supreme Court Justices, Beth is at the mercy of a group with nothing to lose. Bewildered by the action taken by her family, Clint is confused. They not only refuse to report her missing, they file a restraining order against him as a stalker. He struggles with the enormity of the circumstances as he feels her life leak away the longer she is away from both her medication and her dialysis machine. Without them, her system will shut down, and yet he is anathema to the family.
To top it all off his best friend is after him to come back into the business and his soon to be ex-wife has just announced to him that he is going to be a father. Yet none of this makes sense, or compares to the terror he feels at Beth’s disappearance. Not entirely sure of his feelings for her prior to the event, he is now more than ever convinced that he loves her and there is the possibility that he will never see her again.
In a separate situation within the CIA, a young agent Doug Bryant has stumbled on an old code file, one that seems to bring some disturbing information about agents gone missing. Due to his discovery, his clearance is elevated and he is now in the ranks of those with need to know priorities. As he delves into the files themselves, he finds missing funds, missing ships, and a spy in their midst. What is going on with this missing group of agents, and how will he be able to help with his lack of experience?
As both investigations begin to intermesh, the CIA in in the dark about the missing person occurrences, those that deal with the disappearances of the friends and family members of several of the Supreme Court Justices. As every move Doug makes is blocked, he finally finds some of the information he needs to go forward. But who does he trust? He thinks he knows but how can he be sure?
When the leads bring him and his lead together with Clint, they begin to see the scheme as it unfolds. Murder and kidnapping, are just a few of the capabilities of this group of individuals they are tracking. Can they get the information and find Beth in time? When the clues all come together, will they be able to stop this plot from going forward. In a race against time, with lives at stake will Doug and Clint decipher the clues in time?
Hanson has developed a diabolical plot, ones that seems both real and deadly. Her characters, from Beth to Clint, from Doug to the other captives, deliver on the reality of people with whom you can relate. They are human with both strengths and flaws. Overcoming obstacles, and yet at times showing such human emotions, sadness, sympathy, jealousy, and spite, it is easy to imagine the interaction. I was impressed how Hanson was able to take two separate occurrences and draw a line between the two, intersecting and bringing them to fruition in a way that is both believable and impressive.
I would recommend this book for the suspense and thriller seeker. It also delivers on romance, action and adventure, and just a bit of stepping outside of who you are. Once started, I could not put it down. The writing is genuine and the feelings are heartfelt. This would be a wonderful book for your library. I look forward to reading more from Helen Hanson, she has an artistry that is hard to deny.
This book was received as a free download from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Terror has its own vices, where belief creates a certain way of life. Money can even sabotage those intentions, twisting belief of reason to a belief in money. Even the best of intentions change for the ever-elusive dollar.
In 3-Lies by Helen Hanson, we follow the lives of Beth Sutton and her new boyfriend Clint Masters, as well as his faithful dog Louie. Beth is a kind and loving young woman, finding love at a time when her life is not at its best. On dialysis, she has not kept her diagnosis a secret from Clint, allowing him to know everything about her from the start. Beginning a relationship with secrets is in no way acceptable to her or her way of life. If he can deal this this than she understands, he can deal with anything.
Kidnapped in a bizarre scheme by a group of terrorists in an effort to blackmail the Supreme Court Justices, Beth is at the mercy of a group with nothing to lose. Bewildered by the action taken by her family, Clint is confused. They not only refuse to report her missing, they file a restraining order against him as a stalker. He struggles with the enormity of the circumstances as he feels her life leak away the longer she is away from both her medication and her dialysis machine. Without them, her system will shut down, and yet he is anathema to the family.
To top it all off his best friend is after him to come back into the business and his soon to be ex-wife has just announced to him that he is going to be a father. Yet none of this makes sense, or compares to the terror he feels at Beth’s disappearance. Not entirely sure of his feelings for her prior to the event, he is now more than ever convinced that he loves her and there is the possibility that he will never see her again.
In a separate situation within the CIA, a young agent Doug Bryant has stumbled on an old code file, one that seems to bring some disturbing information about agents gone missing. Due to his discovery, his clearance is elevated and he is now in the ranks of those with need to know priorities. As he delves into the files themselves, he finds missing funds, missing ships, and a spy in their midst. What is going on with this missing group of agents, and how will he be able to help with his lack of experience?
As both investigations begin to intermesh, the CIA in in the dark about the missing person occurrences, those that deal with the disappearances of the friends and family members of several of the Supreme Court Justices. As every move Doug makes is blocked, he finally finds some of the information he needs to go forward. But who does he trust? He thinks he knows but how can he be sure?
When the leads bring him and his lead together with Clint, they begin to see the scheme as it unfolds. Murder and kidnapping, are just a few of the capabilities of this group of individuals they are tracking. Can they get the information and find Beth in time? When the clues all come together, will they be able to stop this plot from going forward. In a race against time, with lives at stake will Doug and Clint decipher the clues in time?
Hanson has developed a diabolical plot, ones that seems both real and deadly. Her characters, from Beth to Clint, from Doug to the other captives, deliver on the reality of people with whom you can relate. They are human with both strengths and flaws. Overcoming obstacles, and yet at times showing such human emotions, sadness, sympathy, jealousy, and spite, it is easy to imagine the interaction. I was impressed how Hanson was able to take two separate occurrences and draw a line between the two, intersecting and bringing them to fruition in a way that is both believable and impressive.
I would recommend this book for the suspense and thriller seeker. It also delivers on romance, action and adventure, and just a bit of stepping outside of who you are. Once started, I could not put it down. The writing is genuine and the feelings are heartfelt. This would be a wonderful book for your library. I look forward to reading more from Helen Hanson, she has an artistry that is hard to deny.
This book was received as a free download from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
March 12, 2013
Actually this is just the kind of book I really like, featuring sympathetic characters, an unusual plot, settings in places I’d hang out in if I could, and lots of really good, crisp, witty, even hilarious writing. The main character, Clint, is a likeable fellow whose software has changed the world. After ten years on the nonstop treadmill, Clint has dropped out and is living on a boat called the No Moor.
Running through the book as its plottish backbone is a terrorist scheme involving the supreme court. We discover the details little by little through the eyes of main characters Beth Sutton, who is kidnapped, and Clint, her boyfriend, who desperately searches for her. Beth suffers from a condition that requires dialysis every three days. When she is kidnapped and the ordeal stretches on far longer without her equipment, her situation becomes dire. Clint’s struggle to find her turns into a classic race against time.
I became totally caught up in the story, even as red herrings kept cropping up to distract me. Like Clint’s soon-to-be ex-wife announcing she’s about to have the baby they always wanted. Wouldn’t you know it – she’s a lawyer! Or Clint’s longtime business partner and childhood friend, Todd, pressuring him to come back to work. Or Beth’s uncle, the esteemed Supreme Court Justice, who out of the clear blue sky slaps a restraining order on him.
No matter if the world goes slightly haywire, here in 3 Lies. The ending is supremely satisfying, as any good thriller should be. If you enjoy a little humor mixed in with your action and thrills, don’t miss this book by Helen Hanson.
Running through the book as its plottish backbone is a terrorist scheme involving the supreme court. We discover the details little by little through the eyes of main characters Beth Sutton, who is kidnapped, and Clint, her boyfriend, who desperately searches for her. Beth suffers from a condition that requires dialysis every three days. When she is kidnapped and the ordeal stretches on far longer without her equipment, her situation becomes dire. Clint’s struggle to find her turns into a classic race against time.
I became totally caught up in the story, even as red herrings kept cropping up to distract me. Like Clint’s soon-to-be ex-wife announcing she’s about to have the baby they always wanted. Wouldn’t you know it – she’s a lawyer! Or Clint’s longtime business partner and childhood friend, Todd, pressuring him to come back to work. Or Beth’s uncle, the esteemed Supreme Court Justice, who out of the clear blue sky slaps a restraining order on him.
No matter if the world goes slightly haywire, here in 3 Lies. The ending is supremely satisfying, as any good thriller should be. If you enjoy a little humor mixed in with your action and thrills, don’t miss this book by Helen Hanson.
June 8, 2011
My full review can be found on my blog : http://killie-booktalk.blogspot.com
The story itself mainly follows Clint Masters who has taken a leave of absence from his own high-tech company whilst he awaits the divorce from his childhood sweetheart to become final. He is happy though as he has met a woman named Beth Sutton with whom things are going well until he arrives at her home one morning to find her missing. Clint investigates the disappearance even though her family keep telling him that there is nothing wrong. What he uncovers throughout his investigation is a plot involving multiple kidnappings, missing CIA agents and much more. The author has created a vivid and well thought out story that grabs you right from the beginning.
It is also a well-written fast-paced novel that is full of intrigue, wit and likeable characters. The various twists and turns keep you turning the pages and wondering "who done it" right to the very end of the story. Overall I found the novel to be an exciting and suspenseful thriller. I would therefore happily recommend this to anyone who enjoys a thriller and I look forward to reading more from Helen Hanson.
The story itself mainly follows Clint Masters who has taken a leave of absence from his own high-tech company whilst he awaits the divorce from his childhood sweetheart to become final. He is happy though as he has met a woman named Beth Sutton with whom things are going well until he arrives at her home one morning to find her missing. Clint investigates the disappearance even though her family keep telling him that there is nothing wrong. What he uncovers throughout his investigation is a plot involving multiple kidnappings, missing CIA agents and much more. The author has created a vivid and well thought out story that grabs you right from the beginning.
It is also a well-written fast-paced novel that is full of intrigue, wit and likeable characters. The various twists and turns keep you turning the pages and wondering "who done it" right to the very end of the story. Overall I found the novel to be an exciting and suspenseful thriller. I would therefore happily recommend this to anyone who enjoys a thriller and I look forward to reading more from Helen Hanson.
January 30, 2013
I love it when I read authors I’ve haven’t read before, get sucked into their book, read it in a few sittings, and look forward to their next one. This is how I feel about this book.
The writing is vivid and flows smoothly advancing the story with each word. The plot is complicated making this reader question through the first two thirds of the story how several of the scenarios are connected. This reminded me of Robert Ludlum’s stories. The characters are complex giving interesting side stories that may or may not be a diversion from the main plot.
Ms. Hanson’s dialog was also fun to read as the characters spoke as you’d expect coworkers, or friends to speak, not as someone in a novel might.
The thing about the plot I found interesting is the worry it is based on an actual event. This realism added to the stories depth and the fear similar events are happening at this moment.
As already mentioned I look forward to reading more Ms. Hanson’s books.
The writing is vivid and flows smoothly advancing the story with each word. The plot is complicated making this reader question through the first two thirds of the story how several of the scenarios are connected. This reminded me of Robert Ludlum’s stories. The characters are complex giving interesting side stories that may or may not be a diversion from the main plot.
Ms. Hanson’s dialog was also fun to read as the characters spoke as you’d expect coworkers, or friends to speak, not as someone in a novel might.
The thing about the plot I found interesting is the worry it is based on an actual event. This realism added to the stories depth and the fear similar events are happening at this moment.
As already mentioned I look forward to reading more Ms. Hanson’s books.
March 3, 2013
Bravo Helen! You kept me guessing until the end. This book was a rollicking good time. Some of the good guys might be bad guys. The bad guys might not be as awful as you'd want them to be. The hero is an underdog, but he's also handsome and rich, so you never get around to feeling too sorry for him. The heroine is truly in dire straits, but no unnecessary hand wringing is involved. It was so good I almost got it read in one setting!
March 16, 2015
I would also have given this book four stars, but the author decided to let one of the enemy guys kill the hero's dog. That is unacceptable to me! THere are other ways to show how horrible these people are, without killing even a fictitious dog!!! So we have a fairly good adventure book which seems somewhat weak at times. The little girl is a nice touch. THe almost ex-wife makes an excellent bad guy.
Want to read
March 20, 2017I wrote 3 LIES, in part, out of my own struggle to untether from the digital world. It seemed impossible to completely disengage from technology. While the ability to stay connected offers amazing advantages, it can also draw us away from the very people within our reach. As with so many things in life, balance is essential. Here's to healthy tension in the gap.
August 14, 2013
Couldn't put this book down. This was a well written story with interesting characters. I would have given it 5 stars but for one scene that brought me to tears. But then I guess an author that can make you be so involved with the characters that one stunning scene brings tears should actually be commended. I will be reading more from this author.
February 28, 2016
What A Ride ! Couldn't put this one down ! From start to finish this was pure energy ! Story line was great, cast of characters was awesome and the ending will surprise you ! This is a must read for looking for modern day fiction !
March 27, 2016
An above-average read about using the CIA's own agents to influence the U.S. Supreme Court decisions for profit. It was not formulaic and kept my attention. Excellent characterization and the author knows how to paint a picture with words. A good read.
June 28, 2016
Secrets
This book was pretty good took me awhile to get caught up with it , but in the end turned out to be really good . Sometimes you just never know who you can trust . In which is what happened with Beth when she was kidnapped .. Need to read to find out what happens
This book was pretty good took me awhile to get caught up with it , but in the end turned out to be really good . Sometimes you just never know who you can trust . In which is what happened with Beth when she was kidnapped .. Need to read to find out what happens
December 6, 2016
boring. DNF on chapter 14 page 81
August 10, 2018
** Review of Audio Format **
Determined
Clint is determined to stay off the grid. He doesn't want contact with anyone at the company he helped build, his soon to be ex-wife or anyone else besides the beautiful woman he met two months ago. When she doesn't answer the door for a promised breakfast, Clint knows something is wrong. He begins a search that will lead him much further than he ever imagined and draws back into a world he just wants to leave behind.
I enjoyed this book. Beth and the other women captives were a light spot in an otherwise dark story of kidnapping, manipulation and betrayals at all levels. Just when you think you have it figured out, another twist happens and you don't quite know who Clint can trust.
The narration was good if a little slow. I sped up to 1.25 speed. Nolan did a good job with most of the voices and he was able to keep the feel of the writing flowing throughout the listen. Some of the female voices could use some work but other than it was a really enjoyable listen.
I received this audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review.
Determined
Clint is determined to stay off the grid. He doesn't want contact with anyone at the company he helped build, his soon to be ex-wife or anyone else besides the beautiful woman he met two months ago. When she doesn't answer the door for a promised breakfast, Clint knows something is wrong. He begins a search that will lead him much further than he ever imagined and draws back into a world he just wants to leave behind.
I enjoyed this book. Beth and the other women captives were a light spot in an otherwise dark story of kidnapping, manipulation and betrayals at all levels. Just when you think you have it figured out, another twist happens and you don't quite know who Clint can trust.
The narration was good if a little slow. I sped up to 1.25 speed. Nolan did a good job with most of the voices and he was able to keep the feel of the writing flowing throughout the listen. Some of the female voices could use some work but other than it was a really enjoyable listen.
I received this audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2023
I had a couple of reservations right off the bat. First, there was some hoaky humor at the beginning, but that disappeared. (shrug?) The second is I don't normally like hostage/kidnapping situations, but this really wasn't too upsetting for me.
There were multiple groups of people/storylines that all came together very nicely much later in the book. The story was complex and engaging but not difficult. I didn't notice that there were too many details all that often (as I read in another review), but I did skim a paragraph now and then. There were good twists and turns and surprises. The author knows a lot (or enough) about boats, the CIA, and tech/computers.
Swearing is minimal with no other morally disturbing things for those of us on the 'prudish' side.
I'd give it a 4.5.
BTW, I really don't like the cover, but that doesn't figure into my score and I'm glad I didn't let that dissuade me from reading the book.
There were multiple groups of people/storylines that all came together very nicely much later in the book. The story was complex and engaging but not difficult. I didn't notice that there were too many details all that often (as I read in another review), but I did skim a paragraph now and then. There were good twists and turns and surprises. The author knows a lot (or enough) about boats, the CIA, and tech/computers.
Swearing is minimal with no other morally disturbing things for those of us on the 'prudish' side.
I'd give it a 4.5.
BTW, I really don't like the cover, but that doesn't figure into my score and I'm glad I didn't let that dissuade me from reading the book.
July 6, 2020
Clint Masters has been having a mostly crappy year and just when it's starting to get better it all starts to fall apart again. He has been working to turn his life around and enjoy life again.
He is getting a divorce and decided to buy a boat and adopt dog named Louie. He went off the grid for roughly 3 months before things went wrong real quick. The woman he has been seeing Beth is sick and need dialysis.
Beth goes missing and no one seems to care except for Clint. He can't figure out what is going on and if that isn't enough his soon to be ex-wife surfaces to make his life just a little bit harder.
This action packed book is filled with twists and turns that you don't see coming. This is a real page turner that you won't want to put down. I would recommend this book anyone who loves an action packed book with an ending that you won't see coming.
He is getting a divorce and decided to buy a boat and adopt dog named Louie. He went off the grid for roughly 3 months before things went wrong real quick. The woman he has been seeing Beth is sick and need dialysis.
Beth goes missing and no one seems to care except for Clint. He can't figure out what is going on and if that isn't enough his soon to be ex-wife surfaces to make his life just a little bit harder.
This action packed book is filled with twists and turns that you don't see coming. This is a real page turner that you won't want to put down. I would recommend this book anyone who loves an action packed book with an ending that you won't see coming.
November 25, 2024
A true spy novel!
Clint is trying to leave his former life behind. He has disconnected from technology, as much as is possible. He is avoiding his soon-to-be ex-wife. Living on boat with his dog is the life he has chosen. But when someone kidnaps the woman he has been seeing, he decides that nothing is more important than finding her, regardless of who he has to chase down.
Helen Hanson writes stories that keep the reader engaged and guessing until the end. Excellent work!
Clint is trying to leave his former life behind. He has disconnected from technology, as much as is possible. He is avoiding his soon-to-be ex-wife. Living on boat with his dog is the life he has chosen. But when someone kidnaps the woman he has been seeing, he decides that nothing is more important than finding her, regardless of who he has to chase down.
Helen Hanson writes stories that keep the reader engaged and guessing until the end. Excellent work!
July 26, 2017
Thrills and suspense, with a bit of humor.
This is my first time with Helen Hudson. If you like Brad Thor or Dana Stabenow, you will love this book as much as I did. I binge on Diane Capri, Carolyn McCrae and Melanie Jackson. And now, I want to order a few more from Helen Hudson. . .
This is my first time with Helen Hudson. If you like Brad Thor or Dana Stabenow, you will love this book as much as I did. I binge on Diane Capri, Carolyn McCrae and Melanie Jackson. And now, I want to order a few more from Helen Hudson. . .
September 11, 2017
Great book
I enjoyed this book a lot. I finished it in the course of about 36 hours. I liked the different storylines that you knew would converge at some point but weren't sure how. The only confusing part for me was the beginning of the CIA storyline. But I got past that and it clarified itself soon enough. I would recommend it.
I enjoyed this book a lot. I finished it in the course of about 36 hours. I liked the different storylines that you knew would converge at some point but weren't sure how. The only confusing part for me was the beginning of the CIA storyline. But I got past that and it clarified itself soon enough. I would recommend it.
October 7, 2018
I loved this book! Clint is a wealthy man who is dating Beth. When Beth mysteriously disappears and her family tells conflicting stories Clint starts to look for Beth and discovers that people have been kidnapped who have a relationship with each Supreme Court Justices. But Beth is suffering from kidney disease and needs dialysis. Can Clint find her before it is too late??
November 12, 2018
This was so good!
Great story, dialogue, and characters. It really is written well and moves along at a good pace. No wasted words. And it makes such logical sense the way the characters behave and the conclusions they reach. The only surprise for me is I never would have guessed Merlin would...never mind, read the story for yourself.
Great story, dialogue, and characters. It really is written well and moves along at a good pace. No wasted words. And it makes such logical sense the way the characters behave and the conclusions they reach. The only surprise for me is I never would have guessed Merlin would...never mind, read the story for yourself.
October 5, 2019
Saccharine romance disguised as a thriller
When a book is titled a CIA thriller I expect the Company to play the leading role . In this book a famous Captain of Tech takes the lead as an immature lovesick egotist who wastes a lot of time mooning over a broken date. And it only goes downhill from there!
When a book is titled a CIA thriller I expect the Company to play the leading role . In this book a famous Captain of Tech takes the lead as an immature lovesick egotist who wastes a lot of time mooning over a broken date. And it only goes downhill from there!
February 9, 2025
Beth, who is recovering from kidney failure, is kidnapped. Her partner Clint, is the only one who feels something is not quite right and that she could be in imminent danger. Despite all the evidence, no one feels the same, but without treatment her life is in danger. Clint sets off to unearth the truth, but there is more to play than meets the eye. This is the first of a trilogy.
August 16, 2017
I enjoyed reading this book and I appreciated the edge of your seat moments that were thrown in. It was just enough to keep me reading until I felt that I reached a decent stopping point. However, Ms. Hanson ticked me off, (you never hurt the dog.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2017
Great story, well written to maintain mystery and suspense
Great story, well written to maintain mystery and suspense. Well picked cast of characters that help to maintain the reader's involvement.
Great story, well written to maintain mystery and suspense. Well picked cast of characters that help to maintain the reader's involvement.
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