Flash Point

Jason Trapp #3

by Jack Slater

Fans of Ryan, Reacher and Bourne will love betrayed CIA operative Jason Trapp, who stars in a pulse-pounding revenge thriller that threatens to be 2019's breakout hit."

A Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile system takes down a passenger jetliner in the skies over Belarus, showering the fields below in burning scrap. As the world begins to mourn the horrific accident, one man—new CIA director, George Lawrence—knows it is anything but. Three hundred innocents were sacrificed in order to snuff out the life of one man: Professor Alexey Sokolov, a senior adviser to the Russian government.

As well as a CIA asset recruited by a ghost known as the Hangman...

Trapp doesn't know any of this. He's hundreds of miles away in rural Tuscany with Eliza Ikeda, and on a mission of his own: recovery. Both are hurting, but this is their chance at a real life. Together. But it doesn't take long for trouble to arrive at their door. He should have known that his past wouldn't let go that easily.

The question is: why did Sokolov run? How did the Russians discover who he truly was—and what secret could possibly justify the murder of three hundred innocent men, women and children to cover up?

Trapp doesn't want to know.
But he sure as hell intends to find out...

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, Action, Espionage

427 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2019

Reviews

[Kathi Defranc · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a SPECTACULAR new adventure with Jason Trapp and the black ops agency!! This story takes Jason through so Very much!! Jason is recovering and assisting fellow agent Ikeda after she went through some harrowing moments during their last action. But staying quiet does Not suit either of them! Jason receives a message from an informant he turned years ago..Strange, he surely has his own handler now, why contact Jason?...From here the action is non-stop,tension runs high and both Jason And Ikeda are out to find out just What is going on! A British jetliner is blown out of the sky, done to kill One man- the informant!! Jason opens the door to assassins there to kill both agents..
That is it, both are Now out to find what is happening, even if they must go to Russia..
A fast-paced, intense story with people trying to help while others under estimate the courage and sheer ability of Jason and Eliza. No matter What , they WILL Get To The Facts And FINISH want Needs To Be FINISHED!!
A 5 STAR story that pulls you in and refuses to let you put it down until the amazing agents close shop! I received an ARC from the author and I thank him for an amazing thrill ride! I give You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review. Do you like Suspense,Action and Intrigue?! GRAB This Story!1

[William Nist · Rating 3 out of 5]

The 3rd in the Jason Tripp series, this potentially interesting top story line gets lost in the action sequences of the novel. It is the weakest of the series so far. There are some interesting twists in the narrative, such as turning back a malware virus on itself and reversing the infection, but this volume highlighted the high value motifs and the burgeoning love interests of the two principle characters.

I will be moving on to the 4th volume though, with the hope that that book is more plot oriented.

[Jay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jason Trapp is taking a break and babysitting Ikeda as the story begins. From that moment on the tension builds, the suspense grows and the United States comes under a cyber attack. The writing style keeps the images flowing without interrupting the story. The characters are unique and have some depth. This is definitely a book that keeps the reader guessing and enthralled. I finished it on the day it arrived. I couldn't stop reading for any reason.

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in this series and so far I have really enjoyed it. For me, this book was not my favorite, in fact, I think that I liked this book the least out of the three books so far. That is not to say that it wasn't good, and it didn't hold my interest, because it was and it did. There was just something missing that I could not put my finger on.

I am normally intrigued and hooked and eager to continue reading/listening to be able to find out what is happening. In this book, I found myself putting it down to do other thing as and then making myself pick it back up. Granted, there were a lot of other things going on in real life at the time so that may have also contributed to this - in fact, it probably did.

The plot centered around a Russian asset for the CIA that Jason has recruited many years ago -Professor Alexey Sokolov. He is, of course, not running assets anymore but gets a text out of the blue from this asset. To top things off, a British airplane is shot down out of the sky by the Russians and it is soon discovered that his asset was on the plane. Was it intentional? Were they willing to shoot down a commercial plane with hundreds of innocents on it just to kill one man and stop him from defecting to the West? No one is sure at the moment but it is looking probable.

Then, he is attacked at the safe house that he and Eliza Ikeda are recuperating from the last assignment that almost killed both of them in North Korea. Not willing to take any chances, the two go on the run, while trying to figure out what the heck is going on.

As usual, the drama is non stop and action packed. The story kept me interested once the book progressed past the first 30% or so. Will I continue with this series? Absolutely!

[Ralph BLACK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Was never quite sure where it was going or what was coming next.......the only certainty is Trapp making it.
Would have loved a bit more at the end.....

Will be starting the next one straight away

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jason Trapp has become a a new favorite! A stand up action hero! More please!

[Lee-sa Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

An edge of your seat read for sure. I am loving this series. I highly recommend this series. If you like excitement, this book is for you.

[Prasanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trapp is pulled into another plot by Russia to destabilize U.S so they don't interfere with Russia's invasion.. They thought Trapp was a loose end to tie up until they realized they had provoked a grizzly bear.

[Virginia Maripolsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

My sister recommended this spy thriller series by Jack Slater and after having read the first two novels, I highly recommend them and especially “Flash Point” which is raising the standard for a Jason Trapp storyline. Jason is a thinking man’s spy full of introspection and ethical principles. At every point Jason will plan the best solution for any situation or unanticipated crisis. The process of observing his methodology is intriguing.

The author, Jack Slater, writes with real world history and cutting edge conspiracies that make for a believable plot and an exciting read. The author has created a female counterpart to the protagonist who can hold her own in every aspect of spy craft. Ikeda, is a female spy recently abducted and tortured by the Chinese, who is being guarded in a castle by Jason during her post traumatic recovery. Her character is written with a credible back story to promote and enhance her actions and physicality. A thread throughout the story is finding out if Jason and Ikeda are a match on all fronts given that the agents had just met under extreme circumstances and also that agents rarely form meaningful relationships and prefer to work alone.

The writing describes in detail the environs that are continually changing - the description of the castle, the Russian cities, the ships, the weapons, the clothes that paint a picture like a movie as you read through their journey making the environment alive on the page. Almost all the characters are fully realized and believable. Jason’s relationship with his Director is prickly yet based on loyalty and years of trust. The story moves at a quick pace with no dull moments. If you enjoy spy craft, you will be glad you bought this novel. I look forward to reading the next installment “Depth Charge”.

[Theresa Steinmetz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Series just keeps getting better

I'm not going lay out the plot.The book description and other reviews did a good job. I will say, the few books of Jack Slater's I've read have definitely scratched my itch for a good military / alphabet soup suspense drama.
My review is based upon the emotion and realization of how much energy, knowledge, bruit strength, selflessness and love of county these great heroes overcome to make us the strongest, greatest and bravest nation in the world.
I've always had a superhuman passion and respect for our great heroes who serve(d). I talked to a Navy recruiter, when I still met the age requirements ;) about my options as a nurse for the Navy. Past health issues squashed that dream of serving my country. So, now I dabble in researching my interests of previous and current affairs, despite knowing the entire story will never reach mainstream media not out history books!
What I've taken from Sister's series so far is immense mind blowing awe knowing what a great and privileged nation we live in. Our Intel agencies fascinate me despite probably less than 1% of info is ever released. Slater's books gives me glimpses of the magnitude our specials ops endure.
Though his work is based on fiction, his plots are plausible and centers around one man and woman taking on 'Goliath ' and all the communist BS that threatens the world. I'm certain if the CIA, FBI, NSA, DOJ, Homeland, etc declassified all the Intel they uncovered and all the fires they snuffed out, especially w/ our adversaries, not a single American would ever feel safe going to sleep at night.
Thank you Mr. Slater for giving me countless hours of GREAT reading and keeping the wheels of my inquisitive mind racing at mach 1

[Darryle B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third installment of the Jason Trapp saga delivers as it begins with a terrorist plot hatched by the Russians who were in pursuit of an asset in Russia who was exposed as a informant for the United States. The flight he was on to escape Russia was shot down and the asset was linked to Trapp which is why he became involved. The President and the CIA had its suspicions of Russia's involvement in the terrorist plot, but did not have the evidence so Trapp was sent to find that evidence. This black ops mission is wrought with danger and the unexpected as it has the high risk of going deep into Russia with zero official support and few resources so Trapp has to improvise, adapt and overcome-- but he is trained for these very kind of high risk and dangerous missions and is one of the few trusted to carry it out.

This story as the previous ones had the right intensity, suspense, mystery, action and flow that I am coming to expect from the author Jack Slater. He is a stellar writer who has a good handle on developing the character of Jason Trapp and he continues give us more to look forward to about what makes Trapp tick and why he does what he does. The fact that Trapp has a childhood filled with abuse and neglect makes the reader care about him as he becomes more tangible and human as the saga continues. This is a fast read and the great ride for spy thriller lovers. I am ready for the next book and this is highly recommended.

[Gary · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another Implausible, Over-emotionally-redundant Book in the Series

Slater tries hard, but, after my reading of the third book in the series, I’m pretty sure I’m done.

His characterizations are redundant throughout the book(s). How many times do I need to be told that the protagonist is 200 lbs of solid muscle? Not nearly enough for the author, apparently. And the emotional agonizing goes on and on. A few times, sure. But don’t insult me by telling me a hardened, elite, wet-work operative is wringing his hands over something that might cause one grief, but, again, over and over and over. I get it. The author is trying to distance the characters from the sociopathic politicians and operatives who generally populate this genre.

Enough already. No, more than enough. It gets in the way of the story, and especially the action aspects. It’s not believable. It’s eye-rolling.

And how many times does our hero save the world from supreme apocalyptic destruction? Every time, so far. So, for me (and I really like the genre) it’s just not up to my basic quality standard.

Maybe I’ll try skipping ahead and reading the 10th book. Perhaps the author will have figured it out by then. But I’m sure not going to subject myself to number four.

[Barry Ward · Rating 1 out of 5]

#MeToo

I hope the author Jack Slater understands that a big section of the book is just not right. It should not be written or promoted.

So the protagonist's female work colleague, who he interacted with once undergoes significant trauma. Mr. Trapp begs for the female work colleague who is his junior to be allowed vacation at a remote location. No automatic psychiatric assistance in sight.

He further leverages his position at work to invite himself to the same remote location with said female work colleague. Not only that but he is conveniently staying in the same room. This is not right and any intercourse gained in this situation while it might appear consensual really isn't.

Outside of the above the book is another Hollywood entry. The female coworker does not have any agency, personality or real opinion. Like a female actress that starred in action movies in the1980s, very few lines, just there for the sex scene and motivation when she is captured by the villain.

[Bill Hoerter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting into Character

Starting at the beginning (in my case the newer prequel), and reading from the author's designed timeline has greatly aided my understanding of our hero's motivations and how he (and presumably the author) sees our world. It's great fun to invest yourself in a character in this way as long as the writing is as natural and well thought out as this work is. To call a Special Operator such as the Hangman "relatable" is a bit of a stretch, but as his personal world expands beyond the battlefield, his humanity, strengths and flaws contribute to his becoming someone you might want to hang with over a beer or two and get to know a little. I suspect this is true of Mr. Slater as well as it is very clear from his end notes that he speaks clearly through his work and characters.

Fun reads recommended for fans of the best-written examples of the genre. I reckon Vince Flynn would have enjoyed reading the Trapp series.

[John Vonhof · Rating 5 out of 5]

This morning I finished Flash Point, the third book in Jack Slater's Jason Trapp series. And again, I was not disappointed. Slater style is to have action on almost every page. Many times, it's intense, and you have to keep reading. Other times, it's simply exciting action that moves the story along. Trapp, along with his partner, Eliza Ikeda, are involved in an intense race to track down and eliminate enemies of the United States, one by one, to end the terror against America's infrastructure. The power grid and communications are again being targeted and everything points to terrorists from the eastern bloc. While relaxing after the events in China (False Flag, book 2), they are once again targeted by assassins. This sets off a whirlwind of chases and confrontations with one group after another, taking them deeper into danger. It's a thriller and a great read.

[Dan Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile system takes down a passenger jetliner in the skies over Belarus, showering the fields below in burning scrap. As the world begins to mourn the horrific accident, one man—new CIA director, George Lawrence—knows it is anything but. Three hundred innocents were sacrificed in order to snuff out the life of one man: Professor Alexey Sokolov, a senior adviser to the Russian government.

As well as a CIA asset recruited by a ghost known as the Hangman...

Trapp doesn't know any of this. He's hundreds of miles away in rural Tuscany with Eliza Ikeda, and on a mission of his own: recovery. Both are hurting, but this is their chance at a real life. Together. But it doesn't take long for trouble to arrive at their door. He should have known that his past wouldn't let go that easily.

[Ty · Rating 4 out of 5]

great read

I think the story was great and the author manages to keep it going BUT. He gets too long winded. We probably don’t need 30 pages of a motorcycle ride and Jason’s run from getting caught. Don’t need 100 pages of what if’s and getting into a sub or such.
If the author would cut the s**t out I would give it a 5 star. As it is It’s a 3.5.
It seems that all authors have a need to put out 1000 page book and every time they do they spend many 100’s of pages on politics, religion and other stupid stuff that has no business being over done. I bet ‘ol Jack will too and then I will quit his books. Ie. Daniel Silva and Tom Clancy. No more.
That being said read this book. It was great.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought that the premise of this novel was GREAT: Jason Trapp and Ikeda try to figure out why the Russian government killed a Russian scientific informant via airplane shootdown. However, the overall execution was not as great, and at times, jumbled. What detracted from it being great were several items. First: There was too much time spent dwelling on lengthy, personal, side-issues that upped the page count, but didn't seem to focus on mission accomplishment, as a skilled agent should/would do. Second: The plot seemed to get buried at times with side-tracking activities that went on and on for pages that didn't seem to yield much information or plot advancement.

[Wendy Hayon Gerber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading when I should be writing

Another thrilling book in the Jason Trapp series. Slater holds Trapp and Eliza over the deadly edge time and again only to yank them back to save each other and the world.

Jack: PLEASE keep Eliza around for more than awhile. I don't need to get attached to a great female character only to have to mourn her and watch Jason blame himself for a few books! (That scenario in a Brad Thor novel had me flinging the book across the room and half-vowing to never read him again!)

And I hope 'wraith' or 'wraithlike' show up in a crossword puzzle soon!

On to the next!

[Denny Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

#3 was superb! Slater outdid himself with Flash Point. If he keeps outdoing himself, his readers will be singing their praises rather than typing them! So, its a great read. So, the plots and any subs are good, and well thought out. So, it tors into the first 2 beautifully. So, is there more? Slater dances to a different drummer in action novels…he likes his main character in love! And, that’s a real eye-opener, as it shows a side of the character the character isn’t even aware of! Yep, magic. Go read it!

[Doug Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This barn burner of a page turner will keep you on the edge of your seat from cover to cover.

Coincidentally enough, I started reading this book earlier this week. On Wednesday, February 23, 2022, Russian forces invaded Ukraine. So far, the Ukrainians are holding tough against the ruskies. By some accounts, they are kicking some serious butt.

Darn shame Jason and Ikeda weren't able to move in ahead and prevent this travesty.

Definitely a 👍👍 for Flash Point... look forward to seeing it on the big screen.

Duke 👊🤙

[Garlan ✌ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another book in the Jason Trapp series. Still good, fast reads - entertaining, even if a bit predictable and cliched. So far the storylines have been bearable, if somewhat incredible. Trapp has a "partner" now who brings a new element to the storyline. In my opinion, these books aren't up to the standard of many of the other espionage/thriller genres that I read, but I still keep coming back to them, so I guess the author deserves more recognition than I've been giving him. A solid 3 to 3 1/2 star read.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read and good series

I have read all three of the Jason Trapp books, the first one took me awhile to get into but, after a few chapters, I enjoyed the rest of the book. There is a lot of action and it keeps coming, this book is easy to read and very entertaining. The quality of the writing is very good, I don’t remember any mistakes. I also enjoyed the writers comments at the end, I like knowing some of the background and inspiration for the book. Well done Mr. Slater

[Tom Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Jack Slater for some excellent entertaining reads with the Jason Trapp series. I have read the first 3, have the fourth on hand to read very soon, and have the the next one on pre-order for when it is available. I am a real "Gray Man" fan, but have found these Jason Trapp books to be equally great reading. Sometimes a little heavy on the "patriotism" angle when describing Jason, but not a deterrent for enjoying the story-line.

[john alder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read. Non stop action. I really liked the dynamic partnership of Jason and Eliza working together. They certainly complemented each other without cramping their individual styles. Lots of thought went into the story line and it covered so many thought provoking areas. What more can I say other than my next mission will be to be read book number 4, Depth Charge. A huge thanks to the author, Jack Slater for producing another well deserved 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Frank Dupree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trapped by Trapp!

Jason Trapp has “Trapped” me! Jack Slater has created a very likable hero in Jason Trapp. He is just as intelligent as he is deadly! And, I deeply appreciate the fact that Slater has Trapp develop a romantic relationship with Eliza without being salacious about it! I drop books like “hot potatoes” when the author stoops to that. Thank you Jack Slater! I’ve been “Trapped”!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trapp & Island are on a weldeserved vacation when a call from Jason's past reaches him .

Jason wants to drop everything & find the messenger but his plane has been shot down attempting to leave Russia. Now wants to go find out what the message was and find at whatever happened to his friend but before he can even think about going someone comes to the villa and tries to kill him now the race is on!

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Every Second of it!!

Another fast paced and exciting read! It's frightening how close to true life this book seems! I can definitely tell who some of the characters are based on (even before reading the Authors Notes) I found some minor errors in editing which I highlighted (as I do in every E-book that I read)
Thank you Jack Slater for another wonderful day spent reading this book!👍😊

[Rosemary Dreyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 3/4 Stars: This series is certainly engaging but I wish the writing was better. What I liked: Jason and Eliza, Mike and the team “back home;” the action; the additional teams they pull in for support. What I didn’t like: at times the plot seemed disjointed and then rambling and it wasn’t until the end when things were pulled more together; his misuse of adverbs; some of his writing. Overall, these books are a good distraction.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

The action hit hard and often. The story, however, kind of left something to be desired. Had a hard time keeping my attention. Even with my disbelief suspended, I caught myself rolling my eyes at times.
And who throws their own name into their story?!
I'd probably give it 3.5 stars if I could. That being said, I really enjoyed the first two books in the series, and I'm holding out hope that #4 will get back on track.