Review: Fast, thrilling, emotionally engaging and a great segue into his other novels.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 12, 2013
When I read a book for review, I try not to do too much research on it so it is an unbiased review. I do not read other reviews, the author's website/facebook page, etc., until after I have finished reading, started notes on my review and begin pulling it together. That is why I am pleasantly surprised that my review follows along well with what the author had written on his facebook page:"It's a novella--about one-third the length of my novels--and it tells the story of how Jonathan first came to work with Irene Rivers, long before she became the director of the FBI." - John Gilstrap.When I read this book, I was unaware it was a novella. As I finished the book I thought to myself, "Man, this would make the great beginning to a series of novels based on the two main characters." I was excited to see that it was in fact a living, thriving series from John Gilstrap.With that said, this is definitely something I would enjoy. I am glad I was one of the few who had the chance to read the prequel of their lives before jumping into the series. I like having the back story. I like knowing what brought the individuals together, makes them tick, makes them a cohesive investigative unit. I am glad the author piqued my interest and left me eager for more. This novella, “Soft Targets” is a perfect segue into the heart of his passion: Jonathan Grave and Irene Rivers.This novella is a fast paced, edge of seat sitting, “can’t get enough” story. John Gilstrap is a strong author when it comes to stirring emotions and building a story around them.Irene Rivers is an FBI agent whose team botched up a major investigation and arrest of a pedophile. When her case hits her right in the heart, she has a quick decision to make: Uphold her shield as an agent or toss credentials to the side and stand up for her family. Any woman, any person with a child, thrown into the very same mix would find themselves with the hardest decision of their life.In steps Jonathan Graves, mysterious, knowledgeable and passionate followed by a gruff, giant of a side kick. He has the funds and the compassion to follow through, regardless of laws and regulations.This novella is wonderfully packed with tension, emotions, and the scum of society. I know for a fact it is a great advertisement to get me into buying or scoping out his other novels in the series.