Thank you Simon & Schuster for leaving Pacific Burn open to read on NetGalley.

Published: 03/01/16

Stars: 4.5

Smart.

My third read in the tetralogy and my favorite. This is the story I went into the most comfortable of the three: the few characters that have stayed in the story are familiar to me, the Japanese references and inferences are becoming known to me, as well as some of the familial customs both traditional and dark.

Lancet has written a smart thriller; however, it's the main character I like. Jim is educated, well versed in art and Japanese culture, as well as security. He is a widowed single dad and that is where Lancet shines. The books are thrillers with a steady cast and their personal lives are minimal in the main scheme. There are no long drawn out romantic liaisons or talk of such.

The focus is on the story. Lancet has created the perfect balance of storytelling for me, and neither he or myself have forgotten this is not a romance book and there is no place for it. (Thank you.).

I'm surprised there isn't a movie. I'm happy and sad I have just the last book in the series to read.

I definitely would gift this to a serious reader in a basket with wine and cheese.

Of note: There are a few swear words, and it pains me to say I barely noticed them.

This is the oldest book on my NetGalley shelf and, quite honestly, I do not remember putting it there and do not know what possessed me because it is not the kind of book I would normally read. I am glad that I decided to work through my backlog because the book was good. I loved the details about Japanese culture, which took it beyond the typical thriller genre it squarely belongs in.
The main character, an art dealer, is drawn into solving crimes by the influence his father, a man from whom he had been estranged, had on him, despite the character's chose occupation of art dealership. This provided interesting background, as did the fact that he is a widowed single father. There is a series of murders, committed by a Japanese killer who was different than what was expected and led to believe by a witness who was a child (though it was not his fault). Eventually, the main character becomes the target of this assassin.
I enjoyed the character and character development as well as the Japanese culture, which I did not know about. The only drawback was that I think the story was a little long in parts and could have been tightened up. But now I want to read other books by this author and those in the series (this was the third but I don't feel like I lost anything by reading it out of order).

"Pacific Burn: A Thriller" by Barry Lancet is a riveting exploration of suspense and international intrigue, blending elements of crime and espionage. The book stands out for its fast-paced narrative and the author's skillful portrayal of a high-stakes thriller set against the backdrop of Japan.

One commendable aspect of the novel is Barry Lancet's ability to create a palpable sense of tension and urgency throughout "Pacific Burn." The author's mastery of pacing keeps readers on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds, and the atmospheric descriptions of the Japanese setting enhance the overall immersive experience. The blending of crime and espionage elements adds layers to the narrative, making it a compelling read for fans of both genres.

Lancet's writing style is both crisp and engaging, driving the narrative forward with a sense of immediacy. The characters are well-crafted, and their motivations and relationships add depth to the story. The author's attention to detail, particularly in the cultural aspects of the Japanese setting, contributes to the authenticity of the novel.

However, some readers may find the intricate plot and multitude of characters to be challenging to follow, especially if they prefer more straightforward narratives. The complexity of the thriller elements may require readers to pay close attention to the evolving storyline.

In conclusion, "Pacific Burn" is a gripping thriller that successfully combines crime and espionage elements, set against the vibrant backdrop of Japan. Barry Lancet's expert storytelling and atmospheric descriptions make the novel a compelling read for enthusiasts of the thriller genre. While the intricacies of the plot may pose a challenge for some readers, the overall intensity and suspenseful narrative contribute to the novel's success as an immersive and engaging thriller.

I’m not usually a ‘thriller’ reader but I really enjoyed this!
This book is fast-paced, and easy to read. Complex, without being overly complicated. (Or overly violent.)
There is a whole cast of interesting characters on both sides of the aisle, but not - like too many novels like this - so many or so interchangeable that you can’t keep them apart. Here, each of the unique characters stand out clearly and play really specific roles.
I also really enjoyed what felt like an ‘insider’s glimpse’ of Japan and several segments of Japanese art, culture, and society.
The protagonist, Brodie, is a formidable, but believable, adversary - although neither ruthless nor cruel - and a very relatable father, friend, and lover. The killer was both terrifying and fascinating.
I enjoyed this book; have already recommended it to an ex-cop friend who grew up in Japan; and look forward to reading more by this author. This is apparently the third book in the series—I haven’t read the first two, and didn’t feel like I was missing anything. (But sinceI enjoyed this book, I may now go back and read the others.)

Oh boy was this book a roller coaster, jumping between several countries and a chases that thickens with every step ….. by the time the book ends I was left overwhelmed since the ending had a “you are kidding me…. Seriously”.
But still I do love all the deep Japanese history that was being shared through out the story

"Pacific Burn: A Jim Brodie Thriller Book 3" by Barry Lancet delivers an adrenaline-pumping and intricately woven narrative that takes readers on a gripping international journey. As the newest liaison for the Pacific Rim Friendship Program, Jim Brodie finds himself embroiled in a perilous investigation that spans continents and puts the lives of those close to him in grave danger.

The novel kicks off with a heart-stopping sniper attack outside San Francisco's Asian Art Museum, leaving Brodie and his friend, Japanese artist Ken Nobuki, fighting for their lives. Brodie's instincts lead him to believe that Nobuki's family is being targeted, particularly after the suspicious death of Nobuki's son in Napa Valley. With the list of suspects growing by the minute, the story unfurls at a breakneck pace, full of twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end.

Lancet's impeccable storytelling takes readers on a thrilling ride, moving seamlessly from San Francisco to Washington, DC, and onward to Tokyo and Kyoto. The narrative is not only action-packed but also layered with political intrigue, involving high-stakes confrontations with government agencies like the DHS, the CIA, and the FBI. Brodie's determination to protect his friend and uncover the truth drives the story forward with unwavering intensity.

One of the novel's standout features is Lancet's deep understanding and portrayal of Japanese culture and society. His attention to detail shines through as Brodie delves into the enigmatic world of Japanese legends and a rumored killer. The fusion of suspense and cultural exploration adds a unique and refreshing dimension to the thriller genre.

The characters in "Pacific Burn" are expertly developed, with Brodie's tenacity and intelligence making him a compelling lead. The relationships and camaraderie he shares with his friends and allies further enhance the emotional depth of the story.

Barry Lancet's meticulous research is evident throughout the novel, lending authenticity to every location and cultural aspect explored. The Pacific Rim setting becomes an integral part of the story, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding events.

In conclusion, "Pacific Burn: A Jim Brodie Thriller Book 3" is an outstanding addition to the series, demonstrating Lancet's prowess in crafting heart-pounding suspense and riveting mystery. With its masterful blend of action, international intrigue, and cultural exploration, this book is a must-read for fans of thrilling mysteries and those with an appreciation for immersive storytelling.

Pacific Burn is the third Jim Brodie thriller by Barry Lancet. Released in 2016 by Simon & Schuster, it's 368 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.

This is a very well written series by a competent and intelligent author who has decades of immersion in the settings, culture, and realities of living in Japan. Protagonist Jim Brodie is an expert in Japanese antiques, art, and culture as well as a second generation private investigator. The intersection of money and power often attracts the worst elements of humanity and Jim's a righter-of-wrongs and a slightly tarnished white hat with an infallable sense of justice.

This book starts with a (literal) bang as a sniper attack sees Jim escape with his life, but leaves his friend in a coma. The plotting is taut and spare and the action non-stop. The story is peppered throughout with transliterated Japanese words and phrases. The words are italicized in the text and translate easily in context (the author is quite adept). It adds verisimilitude without adding difficulty.

Although it's the third book in the series, the mystery and denouement are self contained here, and readers who jump in with this book won't have difficulties following the story. There are now four books extant in the series and they're all well constructed and exciting, so the series as a whole would be a good candidate for a weekend binge read.

Four stars. An exciting and transportive read. Some light swearing and a fair bit of gunplay and violence.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Jim Brodie who os a private investigator is handed a very big case. When Jim and his friend are leaving a building they are under attack. With very little to go on, it will be up to Jim to figure it out.

Pacific Burn, the third instalment in the San Francisco Magazine Series is electrifying!

Japanese antiques dealer and PI - Jim goes up against several federal agencies and of course a killer. Fast-paced and action-packed. One you do not want to miss.

If you enjoy a really well-written thriller then this is the book for you. The characters are all well-crafted and the storyline is interesting enough to keep you wanting more. A great read indeed. Can't wait for book 4.

great thriller - exotic but relatable surroundings - Japanese culture not always at its finest, but the mores and human motivations merge - the part time art aficiando and detective main character who i recall from Japantown, is a terrific character - and his loss of wife and treatment now of young daughter are very attractive in the midst of what is a brutal murder in front of a child - I like the warmth ... it's a good and deep mystery too - brutal gang revenge - did it effect the death of his wife? Lancet has been a great discovery and I'm looking forward to reading more ...

Well research detail of Japan and the bamboo gardens, volcanoes and city life made this book a four star rating. Art and espionage couldn’t be more different but this author just made it a lively story from beginning to end.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Simon and Schuster. for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review “Pacific Burn.”

Reading this book was like being on a speeding train out of control. It is suspenseful and well written, with well developed characters.
Many thanks to Simon & Schuster and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

A fast-paced detective novel that takes readers around the world to solve a string of crimes tied to a single family. The action starts in the first chapter and never stops until you reach the end of the book. I started reading this before bed and stayed up way too late because I couldn't put it down. As a lover of crime thrillers, I really enjoyed this read!

Japanese-American not-so-thrilling mystery thriller. The first in this series, <i>Japantown</i>, was an entertaining and well-written and mystery. Sadly, this one disappoints. Too much simplistic evil, too much street fighting cum martial arts and too much gratuitous killing. Comic book-like invincible hero and other stereotypes prevail.
On the plus side, some interesting diversions into aspects of Japanese culture and antique arts.

What a fast paced, gripping novel. It plunges you right into the middle of a murder, going 90 miles an hour and picks up speed from there. It’s the third in a series featuring Jim Brodie, owner of a detective agency in Japan and part time antique dealer specializing in Japanese artifacts. Brodie would like nothing more than to leave the world of detective work and become strictly an antique dealer; but circumstances keep drawing him back into a world of crime and intrigue. This novel works well as a stand-alone, as I expect the other two do as well.
There are numerous fight scenes throughout the novel featuring various martial arts moves. The scenes are so well written the reader can almost see them playing out in front of them, even without martial arts training. The glimpse into Japan and the Japanese culture is consistent, although never so much the reader feels bogged down. Brodie’s experience in and understanding of Japan, its culture and its people is so well portrayed it translates to the reader without any additional explanation being required.
In this story, Brodie is called to a crime scene where he encounters the only witness to murder, a child who is also the grandson of a good friend. Fast forward to Brodie and his friend leaving a venue where a cooperative art exchange has been created. As Brodie and friend Ken exit the building, a sniper opens fire, striking Ken in the head. This sets up a whirlwind of activity on Brodie’s part, featuring globe trotting between the US and Japan as well as some travel within the US when Ken’s daughter becomes part of his concern.
This is the type of novel that has the reader reading “just one more chapter” until suddenly they realize it’s 2:00 in the morning and they have to be up at 6:00 to go to work. Once the book has been put down, it isn’t surprising to find the mind wandering back to its pages, wondering what is going to happen next and getting back to reading it as soon as possible. Because of that urge to find out what happens next and to finish the novel, the book becomes a fast read.
There is a mystery element to the novel. Who is behind the killings that seem to have targeted both Ken’s family and Brodie. Brodie comes face to face with the contract killer on several occasions, and manages through some well honed martial arts skills to survive these attacks. While he is aware there is a contract on both his life and the lives of Ken’s family, he has difficulty determining who has employed the killer. The killer, a well known assassin with the trade name of Steam Walker has a reputation of being unbeatable and unstoppable unless the contract is cancelled.
My only criticism of the book is that after several fights, they seemed to become somewhat tedious. It felt like some of them could have been left out without sacrificing the story or the intensity of the book as there seemed to be a few too many almost successes on Brodie's part followed by a few too many unexpected setbacks. Still, the book is a strong entry into the crime thriller genre and is one I would recommend to anyone who likes a hard-charging, sometimes heart pumping read. There are numerous deaths and fights, so this is not one for those who prefer the more gentle type of detective fiction.
Thank you to Simon and Schuster Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an Advanced Digital Read copy of this novel in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. This is one I would recommend to any of my friends who like thriller-type novels.

A crime spree that spans two continents! I kept thinking our hero must be EXHAUSTED from all the traveling. The story was fast-paced, with people getting murdered and attacked left and right.

5/5- another 5 star read for this series.

Each book in the series gets better and better. I love the fast paced suspense and mystery of this edition. Plot twists were not cliche but well thought out.

Jim Brodie manages to be an exciting read and I’m invested in how his life with turn out? Will he ever get to just be a dad and have a meaning full relationship with his long distance lover? Danger seems to follow him around every corner and in every city he travels to.

Can’t wait to read book 4!

Full of great action, and a very good plot for a 3rd book in the series. The characters are still as great as in the two first books.

My thoughts

I loved it , loved how from the ever start it just pulled me in the pages, and once that started I could stop reading , had to know what happened next, had to find out all the Secrets and Lies that was been told and kept, who was trying to kill Jim and his friends, loved how Mr. Lancet mixed in the some of the history of Japan, that I didn't even know, it made every thing more real some how. With that said I would love to say thinks to Barry Lancet, as well as to Simion & Schunster as well as Netgalley for letting me have a change at reading this wonderful book too , if you love Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, non stop action, then you have to pick it up , because its all of that and more , not once did it let me down at all it delivered everything I love in a really great Mystery, Thriller & Suspense novel. five stars all the way.

This book has an interesting back story based on Japanese culture and art. The author clearly has an in-depth knowledge of things Japanese. I enjoyed that aspect of the book.

However, the main character felt a bit flat, I did not feel any connection to him. He seemed to be a self contained person with had a hard to believe and somewhat extreme skill set - good at collecting rare pottery and bashing inter-continental baddies. The same may be said of the baddie in question.

I also feel that the editing could be much better. Some of the paragraphs and the sentences were quite abrupt and the connections between them seemed to be missing. I found myself having to re-read paragraphs to make sense of something, which really detracted from the flow of the book.

All in all, it was an interesting premise, and for those of us who are fans of Japanese culture, it is a welcome addition to this genre.