What do you think?
Rate this book
Thomas Prescott #5
Jungle Up
"Please find me, Thomas! Please!"
Two years ago, Dr. Gina Brady broke Thomas Prescott's heart, but now her panic-stricken satellite phone call starts it beating again with a fury. Thugs kidnapped the good doctor from the remote jungle village where she was working, and now the retired homicide detective's expert skills are desperately needed to save her.
Led by a colorful, but perhaps untrustworthy local guide, Prescott journeys deep into the Bolivian Amazon, plunging into a world where the only thing more dangerous than the gun-toting drug traffickers and the ruthless tribesmen, is the jungle itself.
When Gina's trail leads to a chance encounter with an archaeological expedition, the search for the missing doctor takes on even deadlier consequences. But Prescott will not relent in this punishing quest until, once again, he holds Gina in his arms.
Two years ago, Dr. Gina Brady broke Thomas Prescott's heart, but now her panic-stricken satellite phone call starts it beating again with a fury. Thugs kidnapped the good doctor from the remote jungle village where she was working, and now the retired homicide detective's expert skills are desperately needed to save her.
Led by a colorful, but perhaps untrustworthy local guide, Prescott journeys deep into the Bolivian Amazon, plunging into a world where the only thing more dangerous than the gun-toting drug traffickers and the ruthless tribesmen, is the jungle itself.
When Gina's trail leads to a chance encounter with an archaeological expedition, the search for the missing doctor takes on even deadlier consequences. But Prescott will not relent in this punishing quest until, once again, he holds Gina in his arms.
450 pages, Paperback
First published April 27, 2021
135 people are currently reading
2044 people want to read
About the author
Nick Pirog
38 books1,261 followersNick Pirog is the bestselling author of the Thomas Prescott series, the 3:00 a.m. series, and The Speed of Souls. He lives in South Lake Tahoe with his other half, Stephy, and their pup, Potter.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
June 4, 2024
Rating: 3.5 rounded to 4 stars
The 5th offering in the Thomas Prescott series, JUNGLE UP by Nick Pirog has our snarky hero off to South America to save the day.
While I enjoyed this book, I felt it dragged in some areas and perhaps could have benefited from a tad bit of further editing..but that’s just me. I do love Pirog’s writing but not this book as some of his others.
There is action and adventure, humor and despair - all leading the way to discovery in the Amazonian jungle.
The 5th offering in the Thomas Prescott series, JUNGLE UP by Nick Pirog has our snarky hero off to South America to save the day.
While I enjoyed this book, I felt it dragged in some areas and perhaps could have benefited from a tad bit of further editing..but that’s just me. I do love Pirog’s writing but not this book as some of his others.
There is action and adventure, humor and despair - all leading the way to discovery in the Amazonian jungle.
November 14, 2021
Do yourself a favor and read EVERY book by this author! This was a laugh-out-loud, riveting and suspenseful read. It was very satisfying, especially when Thomas and Gina ended up back together! Thank you, Nick. Well done!
July 13, 2022
2.5. Could not round it up to a 3. First and foremost,my thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of JUNGLE UP in exchange for an honest review.
Regrettably, as an honest review, mine is not a positive one. I have enjoyed Nick Pirog’s Thomas Prescott series and have waited- and waited- for new releases. It has been three years since the last installment; I was so excited to have me some Thomas Prescott. But then...
1) The self-effacing, humorous Thomas is lacking. His quirky character traits and self talk are lacking. I giggled only once. 😞
2) The plot development is lacking. While the plot seems intriguing at first (rescue a former lover who was kidnapped in the Brazilian rainforest), it lacks in execution. The storylines SLOWLY flip back and forth without suspense, thrills or chills. The pacing is so slow, I started skimming.
3) The suspense and tension are not only lacking, they are non existent for 75% of the book. At this point, the pacing as well as the excitement finally picks up some steam. A clever twist or two is finally made around 85% mark, but it is an example of the proverbial “TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE.”
4) There are plot holes and inconsistencies.
I am so disappointed. I would rather revisit Thomas Prescott in his past adventures of previous books. In this one, he is a shell of the guy he once was. Descriptives: lacking, lack luster.
Regrettably, as an honest review, mine is not a positive one. I have enjoyed Nick Pirog’s Thomas Prescott series and have waited- and waited- for new releases. It has been three years since the last installment; I was so excited to have me some Thomas Prescott. But then...
1) The self-effacing, humorous Thomas is lacking. His quirky character traits and self talk are lacking. I giggled only once. 😞
2) The plot development is lacking. While the plot seems intriguing at first (rescue a former lover who was kidnapped in the Brazilian rainforest), it lacks in execution. The storylines SLOWLY flip back and forth without suspense, thrills or chills. The pacing is so slow, I started skimming.
3) The suspense and tension are not only lacking, they are non existent for 75% of the book. At this point, the pacing as well as the excitement finally picks up some steam. A clever twist or two is finally made around 85% mark, but it is an example of the proverbial “TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE.”
4) There are plot holes and inconsistencies.
I am so disappointed. I would rather revisit Thomas Prescott in his past adventures of previous books. In this one, he is a shell of the guy he once was. Descriptives: lacking, lack luster.
July 16, 2021
3.5 Stars
I loved the characters and the humor but the story just didn't hit the right spots this time around. I'm well acquainted with the series and know that the reader needs to be able to set aside reality to enjoy Nick's writing. If you take life and facts to literally, he won't be the author for you. This one just started off slow and felt overly laden with details that didn't really lend themselves to the story. The plot picked up but never really took off, so it was just okay for me. That's not to say I didn't have quite a few laughs along the way and I appreciated most of the characters. The mystery lacked tension and suspense, I felt should have been built into a story like this.
Still, I'll be snapping up the next book this author puts out.
I loved the characters and the humor but the story just didn't hit the right spots this time around. I'm well acquainted with the series and know that the reader needs to be able to set aside reality to enjoy Nick's writing. If you take life and facts to literally, he won't be the author for you. This one just started off slow and felt overly laden with details that didn't really lend themselves to the story. The plot picked up but never really took off, so it was just okay for me. That's not to say I didn't have quite a few laughs along the way and I appreciated most of the characters. The mystery lacked tension and suspense, I felt should have been built into a story like this.
Still, I'll be snapping up the next book this author puts out.
August 16, 2023
I came upon Jungle Up as I was looking up A. G. Riddle whom I follow on BookBub when I saw that he recommended the book. I'm glad I followed suit.
It is fast-paced, funny in many parts, and enthralling right to the end with an Indiana Jones style adventure. Brilliant.
PS: I invite you to follow me on BookBub, it would be great to be connected to you there :-) https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mahay... Thank you
It is fast-paced, funny in many parts, and enthralling right to the end with an Indiana Jones style adventure. Brilliant.
PS: I invite you to follow me on BookBub, it would be great to be connected to you there :-) https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mahay... Thank you
October 22, 2025
3.5 stars
After all the things he's been through, I feel kind of relieved Thomas might find some peace after this final(?) book. At least, it felt like a final book.
I had a really good time with this series, but it did feel like a bit of steam leaked out in this last one.
While I did find it somewhat satisfying that Thomas found closure and reconnected with "the one that got away" a.k.a. Not-My-Favourite-Girlfriend, but whatever, it also felt very clichéd.
While most of Thomas antics requires you to suspend your disbelief, I somehow found this one - him rushing to the rescue at the drop of a hat - a bit of a stretch too big.
By now, after 6 books in total, I really should feel used to that feeling, and yet! It did feel like this one was the odd one out, sort of. Like the author wasn't quite as enthusiastic about Thomas as he'd been before.
Never the less, I had a very fun time with this book series. The prologue, The Numbers, stands tall as my favourite by the end, but I don't regret tagging along with Thomas through out the other books.
The narrator of all books were bloody brilliant so listening to these books was awesome. I really recommend the audiobooks!
After all the things he's been through, I feel kind of relieved Thomas might find some peace after this final(?) book. At least, it felt like a final book.
I had a really good time with this series, but it did feel like a bit of steam leaked out in this last one.
While I did find it somewhat satisfying that Thomas found closure and reconnected with "the one that got away" a.k.a. Not-My-Favourite-Girlfriend, but whatever, it also felt very clichéd.
While most of Thomas antics requires you to suspend your disbelief, I somehow found this one - him rushing to the rescue at the drop of a hat - a bit of a stretch too big.
By now, after 6 books in total, I really should feel used to that feeling, and yet! It did feel like this one was the odd one out, sort of. Like the author wasn't quite as enthusiastic about Thomas as he'd been before.
Never the less, I had a very fun time with this book series. The prologue, The Numbers, stands tall as my favourite by the end, but I don't regret tagging along with Thomas through out the other books.
The narrator of all books were bloody brilliant so listening to these books was awesome. I really recommend the audiobooks!
November 10, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this jungle adventure.
September 19, 2021
Hilarious and informative!!
September 17, 2021
Like a Fine Wine-
Main character Thomas Prescott has a sense of humor similar to a fine wine: seriously dry, and perhaps not for everyone. As for me, I love it. His ridiculously self-flagellating personality sparks what is already a very good read, and makes it a uniquely remarkable tale. He reminds me of the "hard boiled" detectives/PI's of the film noir era. Except he just can't seem to take himself very seriously.
This novel finds him in the depths of the Amazon rain forest of Bolivia, dodging deadly insects, snakes, monkeys, federal agents, documentary film makers, and narco terrorists. Fun times. Sometimes it's hard to tell which is which. But it's safe to say that none of the critters: two-legged, four-legged, or zero-legged seem that impressed with our favorite retired detective. Except for one adorable sloth. I think they may be spirit animals.
If you like a well written, fast paced thriller with a razor sharp wit and excellent characters, welcome to the Thomas Prescott series. Yep, I know this is book 5, but no worries. These can be thoroughly enjoyed in any order. So dig in, hang on, and enjoy the jungle ride.
Main character Thomas Prescott has a sense of humor similar to a fine wine: seriously dry, and perhaps not for everyone. As for me, I love it. His ridiculously self-flagellating personality sparks what is already a very good read, and makes it a uniquely remarkable tale. He reminds me of the "hard boiled" detectives/PI's of the film noir era. Except he just can't seem to take himself very seriously.
This novel finds him in the depths of the Amazon rain forest of Bolivia, dodging deadly insects, snakes, monkeys, federal agents, documentary film makers, and narco terrorists. Fun times. Sometimes it's hard to tell which is which. But it's safe to say that none of the critters: two-legged, four-legged, or zero-legged seem that impressed with our favorite retired detective. Except for one adorable sloth. I think they may be spirit animals.
If you like a well written, fast paced thriller with a razor sharp wit and excellent characters, welcome to the Thomas Prescott series. Yep, I know this is book 5, but no worries. These can be thoroughly enjoyed in any order. So dig in, hang on, and enjoy the jungle ride.
September 7, 2021
I’ve loved all 4 previous books in the Thomas Prescott series, and this one is no exception. It’s part mystery, part thriller, usually in some weird location, and Thomas is hilarious. He’s witty, sarcastic, self deprecating, and somehow it all works to make for a very entertaining narrator.
What I really liked about this book in particular:
Gina is back! And the chapters from her perspective were perfectly placed to show what happened in the places Thomas had reached, so we got to see how she was doing and whether Thomas was on the right track.
Andy. I loved Andy. He was a perfect underdog and we got to see some real character growth from him which was great. And by having him narrate chapters interspersed with Thomas and Gina, you just knew his storyline of the expedition would become important. AND it was interesting and meaningful giving context and science to the history of the Incas.
Camilla.
This series is super cheap on Amazon kindle and so so good. Go check it out.
Also nick pirog’s Henry Bins short stories are fantastic as well.
What I really liked about this book in particular:
Gina is back! And the chapters from her perspective were perfectly placed to show what happened in the places Thomas had reached, so we got to see how she was doing and whether Thomas was on the right track.
Andy. I loved Andy. He was a perfect underdog and we got to see some real character growth from him which was great. And by having him narrate chapters interspersed with Thomas and Gina, you just knew his storyline of the expedition would become important. AND it was interesting and meaningful giving context and science to the history of the Incas.
Camilla.
This series is super cheap on Amazon kindle and so so good. Go check it out.
Also nick pirog’s Henry Bins short stories are fantastic as well.
October 10, 2022
I liked this book … I like his other books better! Lost his humor.
May 23, 2024
Another action packed entertaining book of stupid actions and heroic deeds. Enjoyable.
May 1, 2021
Another great entry in the Thomas Prescott universe. This is the 5th book in this series and each book has Thomas living in a different state, this time a different country. He is now living in France with his sister and her family, enjoying being an uncle to her son (his nephew) when he gets a message that his ex girlfriend has been abducted in Bolivia. He doesn't even blink an eye but gets right on the phone trying to figure out how he is going to get into the country as quickly as possible.
I alternated between listening and reading this book and had absolutely no problems with the narration. I truly enjoyed this book and was having fun going along with Thomas as he fumbles in the middle of the Amazon. There are several things going on at once and there are also several plot lines going on. Things are not exactly what they seem and even when you think you know the score - it ends up surprising you anyway.
I laughed because Thomas is definitely NOT an outdoorsman and it becomes abundantly clear that he is not an "expert" in surviving the wilderness. He has a bout of delirium when he catches Dengue Fever and ends up thinking he is on "Naked and Afraid" because he has taken off his clothes and is in the forest. Seriously, that made me laugh.
The story doesn't lag and keeps the reader on their toes. Was it completely realistic? No, not really. But to me, it didn't matter because it was an enjoyable and suspenseful journey. I did have a couple of problems with the timeline because Mr. Pirog used an alternating timeline and it was at times confusing. Other than that - I had fun - especially at the end when everything was just a free for all.
Oh, and I want a sloth.....
I alternated between listening and reading this book and had absolutely no problems with the narration. I truly enjoyed this book and was having fun going along with Thomas as he fumbles in the middle of the Amazon. There are several things going on at once and there are also several plot lines going on. Things are not exactly what they seem and even when you think you know the score - it ends up surprising you anyway.
I laughed because Thomas is definitely NOT an outdoorsman and it becomes abundantly clear that he is not an "expert" in surviving the wilderness. He has a bout of delirium when he catches Dengue Fever and ends up thinking he is on "Naked and Afraid" because he has taken off his clothes and is in the forest. Seriously, that made me laugh.
The story doesn't lag and keeps the reader on their toes. Was it completely realistic? No, not really. But to me, it didn't matter because it was an enjoyable and suspenseful journey. I did have a couple of problems with the timeline because Mr. Pirog used an alternating timeline and it was at times confusing. Other than that - I had fun - especially at the end when everything was just a free for all.
Oh, and I want a sloth.....
July 7, 2021
Audible
This review covers 5 full-length novels - Unforeseen, Gray Matter, Afrikaans, Show Me, and Jungle Up.
Plot. Thomas Prescott has a storied past - once fired from a police force for punching out a fellow officer, drafted into a homicide detective role, and now retired. Sarcastic, caustic, and funny, trouble seems to find him, as each of the five stories involves him involuntarily knee-deep in an investigation: murders, greed, corruption, theft, piracy, and more. You don't need to read all to enjoy any of the books, but ... you'll miss some threads without starting at the beginning with Unforeseen. You'll enjoy the dog; he's in most books - he has narcolepsy - really. He'll drop into a dead sleep while doing regular doggy things. Actually Googled this, and yeah - dogs do get narcolepsy! You'll also enjoy the adorable baby sloth. 🦥 😘
Liked. Fun stories, twists. No explicit sex or inappropriate language. Clean reads. A little violence, but since it's bad guys getting comeuppance ... 🤷♀️ <- she is shrugging. Narration is fine.
Not so hot. Well, I know Thomas' horn-dog nonsense was part of the character, but...cliché, juvenile, and over the top. You'll roll your eyes, promise.
Written by Nick Pirog, narrated by Johnny Heller, a total of 44 hours of listening in unabridged audiobook format, released from 2019 - 2021 by Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Comfy mysteries with a few hair-raising events - recommended.
This review covers 5 full-length novels - Unforeseen, Gray Matter, Afrikaans, Show Me, and Jungle Up.
Plot. Thomas Prescott has a storied past - once fired from a police force for punching out a fellow officer, drafted into a homicide detective role, and now retired. Sarcastic, caustic, and funny, trouble seems to find him, as each of the five stories involves him involuntarily knee-deep in an investigation: murders, greed, corruption, theft, piracy, and more. You don't need to read all to enjoy any of the books, but ... you'll miss some threads without starting at the beginning with Unforeseen. You'll enjoy the dog; he's in most books - he has narcolepsy - really. He'll drop into a dead sleep while doing regular doggy things. Actually Googled this, and yeah - dogs do get narcolepsy! You'll also enjoy the adorable baby sloth. 🦥 😘
Liked. Fun stories, twists. No explicit sex or inappropriate language. Clean reads. A little violence, but since it's bad guys getting comeuppance ... 🤷♀️ <- she is shrugging. Narration is fine.
Not so hot. Well, I know Thomas' horn-dog nonsense was part of the character, but...cliché, juvenile, and over the top. You'll roll your eyes, promise.
Written by Nick Pirog, narrated by Johnny Heller, a total of 44 hours of listening in unabridged audiobook format, released from 2019 - 2021 by Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Comfy mysteries with a few hair-raising events - recommended.
November 9, 2020
This book will be published in April 2021. Reminiscent of the Indiana Jones adventure films, Jungle Up will have you slashing your way through the Amazon rainforest as you follow homicide detective, Thomas Prescott in a scramble to rescue his former flame, Dr. Gina Brady, from the hands of kidnappers. Thomas had once thought Gina was gone from his life forever when she left to take a job battling an outbreak of tuberculosis in Bolivia for the World Health Organization. But when Gina was kidnapped she was able to dash off a brief plea to the only person she knew could help, "Please find me Thomas! Please!" An interesting cast of characters join Thomas on this trek, although I felt there were a few too many as I had difficulty remembering who everyone was as the story progressed. As Thomas was on the trail of Gina's kidnappers, I felt that there was not a lot of action going on at first and I was starting to get bored. But things really picked up in the last third of the story where there was a lot of action, twists, and even humor. This is the 5th book in the Thomas Prescott series, but not having read any of the previous books, I felt that it worked well as a stand-alone. Although I didn't consider it a page-turner, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys smart adventure stories.
May 3, 2021
Lots of good fun.
The Thomas Prescott Series continues to entertain.
Nick Pirog’s Jungle Up is a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud funny ride through the Jungle with enticing plot lines and engaging characters.
It is reminiscent of the best of early Carl Hiaasen and Clive Cussler.
The story is laced with action as the ever-capable and often heartbroken. Thomas Prescott deals with drug traffickers, hostile tribes, dengue fever, corrupt officials, and a professional but scrupulous guide.
Throw in a dangerous and hostile jungle environment, an indictment of the pharmaceutical industry, an unexpected romance, a dialog that can make you laugh until you cry, and you have a winner of an adventure novel.
Johnny Heller’s narration brings the story and characters to life. Bravo.
Gordon J Campbell
Author of The Courier
The Thomas Prescott Series continues to entertain.
Nick Pirog’s Jungle Up is a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud funny ride through the Jungle with enticing plot lines and engaging characters.
It is reminiscent of the best of early Carl Hiaasen and Clive Cussler.
The story is laced with action as the ever-capable and often heartbroken. Thomas Prescott deals with drug traffickers, hostile tribes, dengue fever, corrupt officials, and a professional but scrupulous guide.
Throw in a dangerous and hostile jungle environment, an indictment of the pharmaceutical industry, an unexpected romance, a dialog that can make you laugh until you cry, and you have a winner of an adventure novel.
Johnny Heller’s narration brings the story and characters to life. Bravo.
Gordon J Campbell
Author of The Courier
May 13, 2021
Well worth the wait!
Jungle Up takes place a couple years after we last saw Thomas Prescott, but don’t fret, he hasn’t changed... (too much)
In his latest adventure Thomas is on a rescue mission in the Bolivian Jungle trying to save Gina. Like the previous 4 books in the series nothing is ever cut and dry. Thomas gets put through the jungle ringer, but true to his nature he never gives up trying to save his girl.
I really enjoyed the side stories in this book, and the new characters (especially Andy, Vern and of course Camilla). The scientific/medicinal story line was really well thought out and the other storyline had a great Indiana Jones feel to it.
This was fast paced, action packed and still left room for laughs!
Overall it was definitely worth waiting for !
Jungle Up takes place a couple years after we last saw Thomas Prescott, but don’t fret, he hasn’t changed... (too much)
In his latest adventure Thomas is on a rescue mission in the Bolivian Jungle trying to save Gina. Like the previous 4 books in the series nothing is ever cut and dry. Thomas gets put through the jungle ringer, but true to his nature he never gives up trying to save his girl.
I really enjoyed the side stories in this book, and the new characters (especially Andy, Vern and of course Camilla). The scientific/medicinal story line was really well thought out and the other storyline had a great Indiana Jones feel to it.
This was fast paced, action packed and still left room for laughs!
Overall it was definitely worth waiting for !
May 20, 2021
Run through the jungle
Lots of stories get high ratings. This one gets mine 'cause I could identify with many elements of the plot. Once again Thomas the wisecracking gum shoe gets himself into one helluva adventure. Its sort of a cross between Indiana Jones and the Deer Hunter meets up in a bar and starts telling war stories. Kind of improbable, kind of believable all at the same time. Very well crafted characters, great descriptions of just how hard it is to get around in Amazon rain forest. I suspect that Thomas will end up in another misadventure. And I will definitely be watching for it.
Lots of stories get high ratings. This one gets mine 'cause I could identify with many elements of the plot. Once again Thomas the wisecracking gum shoe gets himself into one helluva adventure. Its sort of a cross between Indiana Jones and the Deer Hunter meets up in a bar and starts telling war stories. Kind of improbable, kind of believable all at the same time. Very well crafted characters, great descriptions of just how hard it is to get around in Amazon rain forest. I suspect that Thomas will end up in another misadventure. And I will definitely be watching for it.
July 3, 2021
I loved reading all of the books in this series. Thomas is such an entertaining character and I loved seeing how he evolved over the course of each book. His relationships with each of the other characters and the way he gets himself and others out of tricky situations is always interesting. He's a character that keeps you guessing because you never know what he's going to end up doing to get around things. Also loved this book particularly because I really enjoy jungle expeditions so this was right up my alley.
December 25, 2020
When Gina left Thomas Prescott 2 years ago to use her medical degree to help indigenous tribes in the remote villages of South America, his heart was broken. When he receives a voice mail from Gina that she'd been abducted, what follows is Nick Pirog's usual exceptional storytelling about how Thomas tries to save Gina.
The characters are diversely rich and colorful, his research is meticulous and the story arcs are tense and exciting.
I highly recommend this book!
The characters are diversely rich and colorful, his research is meticulous and the story arcs are tense and exciting.
I highly recommend this book!
June 20, 2021
Another fun read from Nick Pirog!
Since reading his latest, I’ve been telling my family to “Jungle Up” every time they start to complain. Seriously, I’ve been waiting patiently for his next book, and it did not disappoint. Thomas is hilarious as always and each of the other characters are well developed and interesting all on their own. I highly recommend all of his books. Each series is uniquely imaginative and so very funny. Thank you Nick. Keep them coming.
Since reading his latest, I’ve been telling my family to “Jungle Up” every time they start to complain. Seriously, I’ve been waiting patiently for his next book, and it did not disappoint. Thomas is hilarious as always and each of the other characters are well developed and interesting all on their own. I highly recommend all of his books. Each series is uniquely imaginative and so very funny. Thank you Nick. Keep them coming.
June 7, 2021
First, “high pH” means alkaline, not acidic -pay attention you authors out there!
Next, this is a great book with everything in it: reckless hero out to save fair damsel, archeology, ethnobotany, gamers, Naked and Afraid, the Marvel oeuvre, and more. It’s a “read again” in the same way comfort food calls to us.
Next, this is a great book with everything in it: reckless hero out to save fair damsel, archeology, ethnobotany, gamers, Naked and Afraid, the Marvel oeuvre, and more. It’s a “read again” in the same way comfort food calls to us.
November 30, 2020
Buckle up for another perfect Thomas Prescott adventure! You will run the gamut of emotions, and not soon forget it. I loved every second.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and, NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book, in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and, NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book, in exchange for an honest review.
Read
May 28, 2021I love these books can't wait for the next 1
Nick Pirog Rights the best stories very interesting and different I love them and can't wait for the next tale Read his books you won't be disappointed
Nick Pirog Rights the best stories very interesting and different I love them and can't wait for the next tale Read his books you won't be disappointed
June 2, 2021
Amazing as always
I don't know how one man always ends up in the strangest predicaments, but Thomas Prescotts adventures are always interesting. A great read. I can't wait for the next one!
I don't know how one man always ends up in the strangest predicaments, but Thomas Prescotts adventures are always interesting. A great read. I can't wait for the next one!
July 25, 2021
Pirog keeps you entertained throughout. The humor off-sets the serious subjects that this novel takes on. This was my first Pirog, but not my last.
4.5 Stars
4.5 Stars
December 20, 2025
MY RATING GUIDE: 4.5 Stars (rounded up). Action. Adventure. Remote setting. Head hunters. Distinct characters. Original. Humor. Fast moving plot. Engaging. Excellent voice performance by Jonny Heller. My husband & I enjoyed this new-to-us series & author enough to purchase a second title (in audio). If done well (& appropriately cast), we would enjoy a movie of JUNGLE UP. This was a pleasant surprise.
1=DNF/What was that?; 2=Not for me; 3=Ok; 3.5=I enjoyed this; 4=I really liked; 5=WE REALLY ENJOYED THIS! (5 is rare for me).
Somewhere deep in the Bolivian jungle ~
PI Thomas Prescott, 37, is a former Seattle Homicide Detective & FBI Violent Crimes consultant. Several months ago Prescott left Seattle, moved east to help his ailing sister with pressing childcare needs while he recovered from a recent shooting & a subsequent knee surgery. While being nanny, Prescott receives a truncated call from his ex-girlfriend, Dr Gina Brady, last known to be treating isolated villagers in Bolivia for tuberculosis. Her cut off message informs Thomas that she has been kidnapped by Narcos and she begs to be rescued. Although Prescott last heard from Gina over 2yrs ago, they split on amicable terms and he still cares for her. Failing to reconnect the call, Prescott immediately begins contacting anyone he believes might help him get into Bolivia as quickly as possible, requesting assistance from local experts and guides as well. Within days of receiving Gina’s call, Prescott is venturing into the Bolivian jungle. He only hopes she survives until he arrives and that his arrival accomplishes an actual rescue.
Comments ~
1) I read a variety of genres but Action Adventure Thriller novels set in remote locations are among my favorite, with a sense of humor. JUNGLE UP, set in the Bolivian jungle, is bk5 in a new-to-me series featuring former Seattle Homicide Detective Thomas Prescott. My husband & I were enjoying this so much that part way through JUNGLE UP, I picked up bk3 which is set in Africa. Although I have not read the new prequel novel nor bks 1-4, JUNGLE UP read easily as a ‘Standalone’ novel. Background information on secondary characters from earlier books is adequately supplied.
2) Nick Pirog is a new author for my husband & I. Together, we enjoy listening to various Action.Adventure.Thriller novels over coffee in the mornings. The blurb of JUNGLE UP sounded like a fit. The storyline heads into the jungle with the characters quickly splitting off into three separate groups, locations, events and time periods. The book progresses with the action switching between the three different settings and characters. We were never bored.
3) Johnny Heller’s performance of JUNGLE UP is superb. He brings each character to life, putting the reader into the action, handling the humor nuances wonderfully. This is a case where the audiobook definitely enhances the story. On a side note, the voices chosen for both main characters, ex-homicide detective Thomas Prescott and anthropologist Andy Dupre had me incorrectly imagining George Costanza/Jason Alexander type characters rather than the tall, well built men described by the author. I had to keep readjusting my mental images of these 2 characters as the story progressed (but, Shrug).
4) We learn through the dialogue that the title ‘Jungle up’ apparently means ‘Buck up!, ‘Get it in gear’ or ‘Man up!’ Who knew? ;)
5) My husband and I were pleasantly surprised with our purchase of JUNGLE UP and recommend it to readers who enjoy:
> Action.Adventure.Thriller.Mystery novels (such as Coulter’s FBI or a Brit in the FBI series, or Cussler’s Dirk Pitt or the NUMA series)
> Detective.Private Investigator novels
> Character driven novels
> Novels featuring seasoned characters (not necessarily matured)
> Tongue in cheek, dry, witty humor
> Action scenes switching between dual (triple) locations
READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on occasion.
VIOLENCE - PG-13. Physical & sexual threats, but not particularly dark or graphic.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
1=DNF/What was that?; 2=Not for me; 3=Ok; 3.5=I enjoyed this; 4=I really liked; 5=WE REALLY ENJOYED THIS! (5 is rare for me).
Somewhere deep in the Bolivian jungle ~
PI Thomas Prescott, 37, is a former Seattle Homicide Detective & FBI Violent Crimes consultant. Several months ago Prescott left Seattle, moved east to help his ailing sister with pressing childcare needs while he recovered from a recent shooting & a subsequent knee surgery. While being nanny, Prescott receives a truncated call from his ex-girlfriend, Dr Gina Brady, last known to be treating isolated villagers in Bolivia for tuberculosis. Her cut off message informs Thomas that she has been kidnapped by Narcos and she begs to be rescued. Although Prescott last heard from Gina over 2yrs ago, they split on amicable terms and he still cares for her. Failing to reconnect the call, Prescott immediately begins contacting anyone he believes might help him get into Bolivia as quickly as possible, requesting assistance from local experts and guides as well. Within days of receiving Gina’s call, Prescott is venturing into the Bolivian jungle. He only hopes she survives until he arrives and that his arrival accomplishes an actual rescue.
Comments ~
1) I read a variety of genres but Action Adventure Thriller novels set in remote locations are among my favorite, with a sense of humor. JUNGLE UP, set in the Bolivian jungle, is bk5 in a new-to-me series featuring former Seattle Homicide Detective Thomas Prescott. My husband & I were enjoying this so much that part way through JUNGLE UP, I picked up bk3 which is set in Africa. Although I have not read the new prequel novel nor bks 1-4, JUNGLE UP read easily as a ‘Standalone’ novel. Background information on secondary characters from earlier books is adequately supplied.
2) Nick Pirog is a new author for my husband & I. Together, we enjoy listening to various Action.Adventure.Thriller novels over coffee in the mornings. The blurb of JUNGLE UP sounded like a fit. The storyline heads into the jungle with the characters quickly splitting off into three separate groups, locations, events and time periods. The book progresses with the action switching between the three different settings and characters. We were never bored.
3) Johnny Heller’s performance of JUNGLE UP is superb. He brings each character to life, putting the reader into the action, handling the humor nuances wonderfully. This is a case where the audiobook definitely enhances the story. On a side note, the voices chosen for both main characters, ex-homicide detective Thomas Prescott and anthropologist Andy Dupre had me incorrectly imagining George Costanza/Jason Alexander type characters rather than the tall, well built men described by the author. I had to keep readjusting my mental images of these 2 characters as the story progressed (but, Shrug).
4) We learn through the dialogue that the title ‘Jungle up’ apparently means ‘Buck up!, ‘Get it in gear’ or ‘Man up!’ Who knew? ;)
5) My husband and I were pleasantly surprised with our purchase of JUNGLE UP and recommend it to readers who enjoy:
> Action.Adventure.Thriller.Mystery novels (such as Coulter’s FBI or a Brit in the FBI series, or Cussler’s Dirk Pitt or the NUMA series)
> Detective.Private Investigator novels
> Character driven novels
> Novels featuring seasoned characters (not necessarily matured)
> Tongue in cheek, dry, witty humor
> Action scenes switching between dual (triple) locations
READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on occasion.
VIOLENCE - PG-13. Physical & sexual threats, but not particularly dark or graphic.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
November 14, 2020
Get ready for a nail-biting adventure through the Bolivian rainforest in Nick Pirog’s newest novel, ‘Jungle Up,’ to be published on April 27, 2021. Although this is book five of the Thomas Prescott Series, it can certainly stand alone.
Thomas Prescott is a retired homicide detective who worked for the violent crimes division of the FBI. He’s babysitting his nephew when he accesses a voicemail from an old girlfriend who has been abducted in the Bolivian Amazon. She pleads with him to come and find where they are holding her hostage. Thomas, who still has feelings for her, gears up and jumps on the next plane to join an expedition into the rainforest and rescue Gina.
Dr. Gina Brady has a background in infectious disease and has been working for the WHO to contain a second tuberculosis outbreak in the remote Tibiono Village in Bolivia. One day she is abducted for her medical supplies and expertise and is forcefully taken deep into the rainforest. Her sole purpose is keeping a badly injured man alive. Gina leaves clues along the way, knowing that although she didn’t actually talk to Thomas, he’s out there looking for her.
I loved the author’s sense of humour. He had me giggling when he wrote about Thomas’s interactions with his nephew. I instantly connected to the characters; each one was unique and richly developed. As Pirog’s storyline unravels, the true nature (and hidden agenda) of the characters are revealed and readers are introduced to a colourful cast of adventurous trekkers. Pirog’s extensive research shows in his ability to sweep you into the dense rainforest and educate you about the endemic insects and animals, trees, and jungle covered ruins as the characters experience chance encounters with gun toting drug traffickers and ruthless tribesmen. This is a wonderfully written, fast paced, adventure with plenty of twists and turns. I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. You’ll have to mark this date on your calendar so that you can read for yourself to find out if Thomas locates Gina or if the rainforest claims her as one of its own.
The rainforest really fascinates me and I didn’t think I’d ever find another book that held my attention as well as ‘The Lost City of the Monkey God,’ but Pirog has proven that this story is a winner. I’ll certainly be sourcing out the other novels in this series!
Thank you Nick Pirog, Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thomas Prescott is a retired homicide detective who worked for the violent crimes division of the FBI. He’s babysitting his nephew when he accesses a voicemail from an old girlfriend who has been abducted in the Bolivian Amazon. She pleads with him to come and find where they are holding her hostage. Thomas, who still has feelings for her, gears up and jumps on the next plane to join an expedition into the rainforest and rescue Gina.
Dr. Gina Brady has a background in infectious disease and has been working for the WHO to contain a second tuberculosis outbreak in the remote Tibiono Village in Bolivia. One day she is abducted for her medical supplies and expertise and is forcefully taken deep into the rainforest. Her sole purpose is keeping a badly injured man alive. Gina leaves clues along the way, knowing that although she didn’t actually talk to Thomas, he’s out there looking for her.
I loved the author’s sense of humour. He had me giggling when he wrote about Thomas’s interactions with his nephew. I instantly connected to the characters; each one was unique and richly developed. As Pirog’s storyline unravels, the true nature (and hidden agenda) of the characters are revealed and readers are introduced to a colourful cast of adventurous trekkers. Pirog’s extensive research shows in his ability to sweep you into the dense rainforest and educate you about the endemic insects and animals, trees, and jungle covered ruins as the characters experience chance encounters with gun toting drug traffickers and ruthless tribesmen. This is a wonderfully written, fast paced, adventure with plenty of twists and turns. I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. You’ll have to mark this date on your calendar so that you can read for yourself to find out if Thomas locates Gina or if the rainforest claims her as one of its own.
The rainforest really fascinates me and I didn’t think I’d ever find another book that held my attention as well as ‘The Lost City of the Monkey God,’ but Pirog has proven that this story is a winner. I’ll certainly be sourcing out the other novels in this series!
Thank you Nick Pirog, Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2024
Offensive and Reckless
Do not stop taking your meds.
Ginger will not cure your genetic diseases.
Especially in two to six weeks.
And most importantly: treatments and potential cures are great, we love them, but it is *not taboo to have an autoimmune disease.*
Medicine is absolutely an industry profiting off of our illnesses...but when you look at this story from an individual's gaze, hearing that the main character's sister getting a diagnosis was more painful for him than losing both of his parents, just stigmatizes what it's like to BE that relative.
And it just continues on, diminishing the lives of those with autoimmune diseases.
You don't always need full time care. You don't want your partner and family to feel pain (pity) each time they look at you.
You can have a disease and be bold, strong, and capable, and independent. And you can have off days. Off months, even. And that doesn't diminish your value.
Narratives like this perpetuate ableism in our society. I'm proud of my diagnoses, because they meant that doctors finally believed me enough to start treating what had been hurting me. My illnesses have brought me community, a sense of purpose, increased empathy, and an unofficial degree in understanding how my illnesses and medicines work.
It's not "book magic" to realize that one of the leads' illness is an autoimmune disease; it's lack of research and exposure to those that are living with illnesses every single day. Portraying them as as weak and in need of rescue can have a devastating impact on readers with illnesses, not to mention that treatment for those conditions absolutely is painful, expensive, and for, the foreseeable future, necessary.
Introducing a "cure" without a single acknowledgment at the end that this is *fiction* makes it that much easier to question the purpose of medical care.
It's reckless and I just hope that no one out there reads this book and decides to stop their meds.
You matter, you don't *need* to be cured to have value, and remember that the stigma comes from those who don't understand how hard it is, not from you.
Do not stop taking your meds.
Ginger will not cure your genetic diseases.
Especially in two to six weeks.
And most importantly: treatments and potential cures are great, we love them, but it is *not taboo to have an autoimmune disease.*
Medicine is absolutely an industry profiting off of our illnesses...but when you look at this story from an individual's gaze, hearing that the main character's sister getting a diagnosis was more painful for him than losing both of his parents, just stigmatizes what it's like to BE that relative.
And it just continues on, diminishing the lives of those with autoimmune diseases.
You don't always need full time care. You don't want your partner and family to feel pain (pity) each time they look at you.
You can have a disease and be bold, strong, and capable, and independent. And you can have off days. Off months, even. And that doesn't diminish your value.
Narratives like this perpetuate ableism in our society. I'm proud of my diagnoses, because they meant that doctors finally believed me enough to start treating what had been hurting me. My illnesses have brought me community, a sense of purpose, increased empathy, and an unofficial degree in understanding how my illnesses and medicines work.
It's not "book magic" to realize that one of the leads' illness is an autoimmune disease; it's lack of research and exposure to those that are living with illnesses every single day. Portraying them as as weak and in need of rescue can have a devastating impact on readers with illnesses, not to mention that treatment for those conditions absolutely is painful, expensive, and for, the foreseeable future, necessary.
Introducing a "cure" without a single acknowledgment at the end that this is *fiction* makes it that much easier to question the purpose of medical care.
It's reckless and I just hope that no one out there reads this book and decides to stop their meds.
You matter, you don't *need* to be cured to have value, and remember that the stigma comes from those who don't understand how hard it is, not from you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2021
I have been waiting a long time for a new Thomas Prescott novel from Nick Pirog because I loved the four previous novels. The new novel, “Jungle Up” was very welcome and, once again, I was intrigued and totally involved in reading this story. Nick has very gifted proficency of telling a story that grabs your attention throughout and his description and education in the dense rainforest and insects and animals therein was brilliant.
The story begins with Dr Gina Brady, who had worked in infectious diseases with the WHO while removing a second tuberculosis outbreak in Tibiono Village in Bolivia. After she had finished working for the WHO and living in the village, she is abducted and is taken deep into the rainforest. She manages to send off a text from a stolen satellite phone to her former lover, Thomas Prescott, an ex-FBI agent and homicide detective, asking him for his help. Thomas, of course, who still has feelings for Gina, does everything in his power to get to Africa, by fair means or foul and with great expertise.
The characters in the book are very well described so that you believe they are genuine, including the drug-traffickers and African tribesmen and the money-hungry pharmaceuticals. The scientific story was really well thought out and Nick’s research was spot-on.
I love the way Nick Pirog writes a fast-paced story with lots of twists and turns and his stories contain a certain amount of humour so you can relieve yourself from the gory bits.
I can recommend this book and cannot wait for the next one.
The story begins with Dr Gina Brady, who had worked in infectious diseases with the WHO while removing a second tuberculosis outbreak in Tibiono Village in Bolivia. After she had finished working for the WHO and living in the village, she is abducted and is taken deep into the rainforest. She manages to send off a text from a stolen satellite phone to her former lover, Thomas Prescott, an ex-FBI agent and homicide detective, asking him for his help. Thomas, of course, who still has feelings for Gina, does everything in his power to get to Africa, by fair means or foul and with great expertise.
The characters in the book are very well described so that you believe they are genuine, including the drug-traffickers and African tribesmen and the money-hungry pharmaceuticals. The scientific story was really well thought out and Nick’s research was spot-on.
I love the way Nick Pirog writes a fast-paced story with lots of twists and turns and his stories contain a certain amount of humour so you can relieve yourself from the gory bits.
I can recommend this book and cannot wait for the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews