Jacks are Wild

Jack Stratton #3

by Christopher Greyson

Handsome, white-knight, Police Officer Jack Stratton is back in this action-packed, thrilling adventure. When his sexy, old flame disappears, no one thinks it’s suspicious except Jack and one unbalanced witness. Jack feels in his gut that something is wrong. He knows that Marisa has a past and if it ever caught up with her – it would be deadly. Determined to buck the critics, and listen to his instincts, he and his young, feisty sidekick plunge ahead and start to track down leads hoping to find Marisa in time. The trail leads them into all sorts of trouble – landing them smack in the middle of an all-out Mob war between the Italian Mafia and the Japanese Yakuza.

When evidence surfaces that Marisa was kidnapped, Jack must navigate between the warring parties, assassins and cold-blooded hit men to outwit the cunning kidnappers before it is too late. As the body count rises, the stakes in this game are life and death – with no rules except one – Jacks are Wild.

This is a stand-alone novel in a series of books with rogue hero Jack Stratton. They can be read in any order. Look for other novels in the Jack Stratton Series including “Girl Jacked” and “Jack Knifed”.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Fiction, Suspense, Detective, Contemporary

470 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 19, 2014

About the author

My name is Christopher Greyson, and I am a storyteller.

Since I was a little boy, I have dreamt of what mystery was around the next corner, or what quest lay over the hill. If I couldn’t find an adventure, one usually found me, and now I weave those tales into my stories. I am blessed to have written over twenty novels.

My love for tales of mystery and adventure began with my grandfather, a decorated World War I hero. I will never forget being introduced to his friend, a WWI pilot who flew across the skies at the same time as the feared, legendary Red Baron. My love of reading and storytelling eventually led me to write and it’s the best job I’ve ever had.

I love to hear from my readers. Please visit ChristopherGreyson.com, where you can become a preferred reader, download an exclusive Jack Stratton mystery, and receive advanced notifications of book releases and more! Please follow Detective Jack Stratton on Twitter @chris_greyson and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ChristopherG.... Thank you for reading my novels. I hope my stories have brightened your day.

Sincerely,

Christopher Greyson

Reviews

[Jaide · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jacks are Wild is Christopher Greyson's best Detective Jack Stratton novel so far in the series, and I am starting #4 right now. I am addicted! If you want a thrilling mystery with characters you can't get enough of and a plot that just totally draws you in, I suggest you check out the series. If not, then you don't know jack!!!

[Terri Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Police officer Jack Stratton is reduced to foot beat cop because he stupidly refuses to follow rules. One of the streets he walks is the one where ex-lover has a tattoo shop. Marisa is also a talented artist who shows and sells her paintings. Marisa has been nervous-she has the feeling that someone is watching her. And then a homeless man she feeds sees Marisa being kidnapped by three Italians and a Japanese.

Marisa, Jack discovers, is no ordinary missing person. For one thing, her real name is Angelica, and for another thing, her father is the head of a large and powerful Italian mafia syndicate. While in high school, her uncle had her boyfriend killed for kissing her. This is where the story gets a little murky. Supposedly the FBI changed her name legally and put her in this little town but apparently her uncle was never put away for the murder. It looks like she is in the witness protection program but it is the federal marshals who handle that program, not the FBI. There are two FBI agents who have come to town -Walter and Jennifer- and Walter claims to have placed her and said he had wanted to see how she was over the years but "we aren't supposed to do that." What? Again, it would be the US Marshal's office, not the FBI, and they most certainly do keep an agent in contact. Maybe the author doesn't know but that is shoddy research.

Jack, of course, doesn't trust the police he works for and the FBI to find her. He sticks his snout in and meets with Marisa's mafia family and with the Asian gang that is their rival in the area and then the FBI who were watching both groups drags him in and accuses him of being a jilted lover who killed her.

Jack and his foster sister Replacement/Alice join with Marisa's brother and a Japanese hitwoman from the rival gang while trying to stay out of jail himself. I have to admit that I don't like it that the author is trying to build a romance between Jack and his foster sister.

[Jim · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Jacks Are Wild" is the third in a series of Jack Stratton novels by author Christopher Greyson. Jack is a police officer who grew up in the child services system. Jack's roommate is "Replacement" AKA Alice. Alice grew in in one of the same foster homes Jack did. In this novel, Jack's good friend and sometimes romantic partner, Marisa has gone missing. Marsia runs a tattoo shop and is a very good artist. We come to learn that Marisa is in the witness protection program, and her real name is Angelica Vitagliano. As you can guess there are two mob families at war with each other, and we think one has kidnapped Marisa.Then again maybe it was the Yakuza. That's the basis of the mystery in this book. Jack finds himself on suspension again for not being able to follow protocol (of any kind). Jack and Alice set off in hope of rescuing Marisa. They are soon joined by Kiku, a member of Yakuza. They also pick up FBI agent Jennifer to add onto the team. The story itself was very weak. The book just did not flow very well. There were long periods where nothing was happening and the story line was just stuck. This one really lacked the action of the previous two in the series. I was somewhat disappointed from about half way through the book and had to struggle to finish it off. The characters were developed pretty well, and the dialog was snappy which added pretty well to the story. I'd recommend this one if you've already read the first two books of the series. Only so that we can see the relationship between Jack and Alice progress. I gave it a very liberal 3 stars out of 5. It was really about 2.5 stars out of 5. But, give it a shot if you're into the series. You very well may like it better than I did.

[Kim Hammond-beyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun series

26 yr old cop, vet with ptsd, foster child of a cool woman who now has early Alzheimer's, Jack listens to his gut and never lets rules get in his way. With side kick Replacement (aka Alice), they solve crimes and muddle through life and love. Read in order. Addictive so know you may be hooked...

[Rick Colburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spellbinding

Excellent read never stop mystery that keeps your attention and keeps you guessing as to what is going to happen next.

[Dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two-haiku review:

Mob daughter kidnapped
But only Jack looks for her
Helped by his chick gang

Action-packed thriller
Best book of series so far
Jack's engaging guy

[Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. For the first half of the book I wasn’t especially engaged. It was just okay. But then it really picked up and I was quite interested through the second half. So overall I’m rounding up.

[Shelly Ganz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good book in a great series. It's nice to get to know more about these characters. Jack is a decicated officer who is willing to do anything to save his friend. With Replacement as his side, he won't give up even if he has to put his own life on the line.

[Leah Speller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This thriller takes you on a ride and does not stop till the end. Jack it truly a rogue white knight. He is what I would characterize as a "lawful good" he has his own rules of conduct and if they conflict with others he will still follow his own no matter the consequences. He cannot help it for this is the way he is. He cannot go against the grain. He has great instincts and follows them. We he doesn't someone usually gets hurt. Mr. Greyson has worked on this character in such a way that there is so much life you cannot help but feel for him. I can say the same for most of the main characters, even the stupid Sheriff, and he in my mind is truly stupid.

I could not put this book down. Hours just floated by without my notice and I was sitting in a very uncomfortable hard chair and did not realize until I had to get up. I did not know which way this story was going, let alone who the bad guy was until the end and what a twist it was. Kiku was also a wonderful addition. A bond had developed between the three of them. One I believe that we may see her again.

I do not want to say too much and ruin the story for you but I do suggest reading this book on the weekend. Then at least if you stay up late reading you do not have to worry about trying to work the next day and can continue reading. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

[Gillian Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd call this story a ripping yarn. There's the hero, Jack, who always tries to do the right thing even when it lands him in trouble, who searches for his kidnapped ex girlfriend. There are lots of twists and turns to keep you entertained, including some unexpected ones. Most of women Jack meets seem to fall in love with him, which is a little cliched, but my main point of irritation and reason for three stars rather than four is one of the character names. Replacement is Jack's sidekick and the name is a bit silly, most people shorten long names, and her character was also annoying. It's a shame as I'd read more in this series if she wasn't in it.

[Nancy Silk · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Another Spellbinding Thriller"

This is another amazing story within this series which is very captivating. Jack Stratton, police officer, feels that something is terribly wrong when his ex-lover, Marisa, daughter of Severino Mancini, disappears. He's aware of her past and if her past catches up to her, she may be in extreme danger. Stratton and his younger foster sister, Alice (who Jack calls Replacement), are heading into another dangerous search for Marisa. This novel is action-packed and definitely thrilling to the point you cannot set it down. I also love the laugh-out-loud humor the author works into his novels.

[Margaret McKinney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Way too short.

Is it me or are your books getting shorter? Also, while I did enjoy the character, Kiku, I'm beginning to think the author perhaps thinks very highly of himself? The main character, although I get he's pretty, is kind.of a jerk and its unrealistic to have all these.women swooning over him. I mean, I get its every Man's dream come true... But bro, most women like themselves and have more self.respect than these women... I'm disappointed with this book, but, because.I like the series as a whole, I'm going to jeep reading. Hoping not to be disappointed again.

[Kerry Mott · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book (and the series) would be better if the Replacement character wasn’t so needy and jealous. And her lack of boundaries irritates me. I end up scanning pages of the book because I can’t stand her. Also, the main character is written as if he is God’s gift to women and every female he comes into contact with wants him. That makes it hard to read as well. After reading the first 3 books and the prequel in this series, I am stepping away. I read the prequel first and it had promise for the series. I may or may not return after a break.

[Lonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down

What can I say? Great story. Great action. I couldn't put it down & have to get up for work in 2 hours. Don't want to give away what happens, you just need to read it yourself.

[Cindy B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this one from the start. Good guy hero and heroines, didn’t see the end coming. A sex scene I quickly used fast forward on (clean otherwise) and the rest was exciting and I’m ready to start the next in series. Recommended with that warning.

[Marshia Bontrager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. I have read 2 or 3 books by this author and am planning to read "Jack and the Giant Killer" next.

[Lucy Armendariz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

Jacks character is kind, but very fierce. He has been through a lot and has lost a loot too. But he just pushes ahead

[Heidi | Paper Safari Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you haven't fallen in love with Jack and Alice (aka Replacement) yet this one is sure to help fix that. Jack's has gotten on the wrong side of his boss one too many times and finds himself walking a beat, one that takes him past his old girlfriends tattoo shop. When Marisa goes missing Jack finds that he can't help but get involved despite the fact that he knows he will be stepping on more toes.

Marisa has a past one that very few people know and of course Jack. Turns out Marisa is related to the biggest mob boss and when bodies start falling and Marisa gets kidnapped Jack finds himself trying to stop an all out war between the Yakuza and the Italian mob, as well as dodge the FBI and his boss.

Alice of course involves herself in the case, trying to keep Jack safe and also helping with anything related to computers, but sometimes her shortcuts have unwarranted consequences but she always has Jack's back. In fact she always seems to be saving him from himself and everyone else who is trying their damnedest to kill him. She may be a little thing but she is a strong independent character who has Jack wrapped around her finger.

This series continues to surprise me with how fun it is. I love the characters and the growing romance between Jack and Alice. I love their landlord, the nosy woman who was always threatening to evict him before Alice showed up and there is the addition of a new strong female character who works for the Yakuza who I hope to see again in future books.

[Lisa Tollefson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another Jack Stratton. He's a pretty good hero, and of course his name gives the titles a good play on words. These books are reasonably well written, though certainly not great. But they're readable. I've read a few now, and I find that although the beginning is a bit of a slog - not because of the story, but because of the writing, maybe a little stilted - about 30 pages in, I'm in the book and don't notice his style any more.
The stories so far are similar. Jack gets pulled into some case that gets him in hot water with the cops (even though he is one), but he's dogged and won't let go. The man insists on doing what he thinks is right, and he assumes that anything he hasn't found out is still well hidden. You'd think he would have learned to some extent by now, but no.

In this one, his past girlfriend disappears, and he manages to piss off not only his Captain, but the FBI. Still, he keeps on going, in spite of having assassins after him. He brings one home and ends up working with her to solve the whole mess, which is an interesting situation. Of course he saves the day, but at considerable cost.

[Lloyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third installment in the Jack Stratton mystery series. Jack is a policeman in a small to mid-size city of Darrington. He was in the military prior to becoming a policeman and he served in combat operations in the Mideast. In this episode, Jack’s former girlfriend, Marisa, is missing and presumed kidnapped. Jack seems to be the only one taking the possibility of a kidnapping seriously, because no one has contacted her family seeking a ransom. So, Jack proceeds with his own investigation, which causes problems at work and he gets suspended. However, that seems to work to his advantage because now he can work fulltime on the kidnapping investigation. Eventually, kidnappers make their demands known and then the FBI, the Mafia and the Yakuza all become involved. Plot twists abound at this point and you’re left to wonder if Jack can determine who are the good guys and who are the bad guys in time to rescue Marisa before the kidnappers kill her.

[Heather Mosher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading ag

I do love this series and the characters. Yes maybe Jack would not have a job in real life but he bucks the system because he has a conscience that he has to live with. Replacement is an odd character for sure, from her name to the way she interacts with Jack to the way she doesn’t follow directions very well. I have watched her grow from Chandlers “replacement” to a competent young woman helping others in her own unique way.
Jack has the affections of many neighbors,landlords and coworkers and yakuza assassins alike. He’s a likable character. I will read this series all the way through Mr. Greyson! Thanks for the great entertainment.

[D. E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A CG. Murder Mystery Thriller (DJSMTSB. - 3)/War Between the Mobs /Kidnapping

CG. has. penned the third novel of the Jack Stratton series. Jack has been attending to business as usual. He and his partner, Alice, are always in the forefront solving crimes. Then JS's lady friend disappears. JS. and partner find that a job war between the Mafia and the Yakusa. When the pair move between the ancient rituals of the Yakusa. When JS. Determines where his lady is located he tries and to rescue to lady friend. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS

[Doug · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book! This is the 3rd in a series that I have read. I missed reading the 2nd book, however, as Mr. Greyson's Jack Stratton series books are often described this can truly be read as a stand-alone. I did read the 1st and was impressed with the deep character development. This book does not disappoint; the plot and the character development are excellent! If you have ever read a book that plays like a movie in your head while reading then you will not be disappointed with "Jacks are Wild". The characters are endearing and the plot is plausible. I highly recommend this series!

[Aloma Arp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

This is a good one. I love this series and Jack, Alice and all the others are amazing characters. Greyson is an interesting author and continually keeps you mixed up and guessing what’s next. As a light hearted murder mystery you’re smiling one minute at the quips and almost gagging at the gore. Jack is a reluctant hero but puts his heart first every time certainly not his brain. Good story of greed, not revenge not even retaliation just not even fairness but it works. Good read!!!

[Sandi Weston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well developed plot. Lots of action from the start. I liked how Jack would think to himself then react to the other characters. Quite a twist at the end with the last two chapters, and the fact that I read it out of sequence shows Me Grayson is a credible writer.

Very well developed plot. Lots of action from the start to finish. Big twist in the last two chapters. I read this out of order for the series and it still delivers.

[Harry Royster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for Jack and Alice

After every book I say this is not my type of story I like stories with a lot of violence action and gore but yet and still I'm fine that I cannot wait to read the next story the hero Jack is something I'm a conundrum he has so many women after him but yeah he really doesn't choose any of them if you like a good mystery with a little humor and romance mixed in then this is the book and series for you

[Melissa N · Rating 3 out of 5]

3rd Jack Stratton novel is an entertaining ride.

Overall I did like this Jack Stratton novel and the adventures he and replacement find themselves in. This one was a bit busy with lots and lots of bad guys, mafia guys, you name it. I am not sure how realistic a war between these two factions would be and the bad guys at the end seemed a bit out there. But overall I would recommend reading.

[Serene · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is probably my least favorite book of the 4 I've read so far. Partially because the damsel in distress is a woman Jack is in love/lust with. On its own, that's fine but the push and pull between him and Replacement makes it irritating. Does he actually want and love replacement or is he just horny or using her as 2nd choice because Marissa left?

The plot itself was great though. Another well orchestrated mystery.

[Michelle Hite · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Jack Stratton Series

Jacks are Wild revolves around the kidnapping of Jack's ex girlfriend. An ex that is in witness protection and has ties to the mob. Story is full of emotion. Character's are well written and easy to relate to. Completely unpredictable ending. Highly recommend.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super book

This is a superb read! Jack is such a likable character and this book shows it alittle more.
It is filled with action and suspense and gentleness thrown it. I luv this series and highly recommend it anyone that likes action packed books. Read for yourself and see what I mean!