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Codename: Winger #1
Tracker Hacker
High school student. Hockey player. Computer whiz kid. Covert agent?
At sixteen Theo Reese is the youngest agent for Tactical Operational Support. His way with computers makes him invaluable. He designs new gadgets, helps agents (including his parents) in the field, and works to keep the TOS network safe. But when a hacker breaches the system TOS uses to track agents, Theo is put to the test like never before.
Thrust from behind the safety of his desk, Theo must go into the field to put a stop to the hack. He’s scared but resolved because one of the missing agents is his father. And just to make it more interesting, he has to keep everything a secret from his boyfriend and teammates.
Can Theo get the job done, save his dad, and make things good with his boyfriend?
This edition also contains "A Very Winger Christmas," a "Codename: Winger" Bonus Mission
Christmas is a time for family and friends, but teenage secret agent Theo Reese must solve a mysterious hack before he can enjoy Reese family holiday traditions and deliver a gift to his boyfriend, Eddie. Can he avert an international incident and save Christmas before time runs out?
At sixteen Theo Reese is the youngest agent for Tactical Operational Support. His way with computers makes him invaluable. He designs new gadgets, helps agents (including his parents) in the field, and works to keep the TOS network safe. But when a hacker breaches the system TOS uses to track agents, Theo is put to the test like never before.
Thrust from behind the safety of his desk, Theo must go into the field to put a stop to the hack. He’s scared but resolved because one of the missing agents is his father. And just to make it more interesting, he has to keep everything a secret from his boyfriend and teammates.
Can Theo get the job done, save his dad, and make things good with his boyfriend?
This edition also contains "A Very Winger Christmas," a "Codename: Winger" Bonus Mission
Christmas is a time for family and friends, but teenage secret agent Theo Reese must solve a mysterious hack before he can enjoy Reese family holiday traditions and deliver a gift to his boyfriend, Eddie. Can he avert an international incident and save Christmas before time runs out?
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2017
15 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Adams
44 books222 followersJeff Adams has written stories since he was in middle school and became a published author in 2009. He writes both gay romance and LGBTQ young adult fiction…and there’s usually a hockey player at the center of the story.
Jeff lives in northern California with his husband of more than twenty-five years, Will. They are creative collaborators, writing and podcasting together. For nine years they were the co-hosts of the Big Gay Fiction Podcast.
Jeff is also a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). He's an advocate for accessible web content and helps creative entrepreneurs understand how they can make sure their content is accessible by everyone.
Jeff lives in northern California with his husband of more than twenty-five years, Will. They are creative collaborators, writing and podcasting together. For nine years they were the co-hosts of the Big Gay Fiction Podcast.
Jeff is also a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). He's an advocate for accessible web content and helps creative entrepreneurs understand how they can make sure their content is accessible by everyone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 4, 2020
3.5 Hearts
Pretty much all the points goes towards this being a great LGBT-YA story about 16 year old computer genius Theo, who along with his parents, fights the good fight working as a top secret agent.
Theo’s like any other teenager. He plays sports, hates math, and has a part time job. He even has a boyfriend, and it was refreshing that this was not once an issue which is probably, sadly unrealistic. Regardless, this was simply an example of what teen life is - balancing responsibilities, suffering through growing pains, and making tough decisions - just with the added bonus of keeping secrets and coming face to face with life or death situations.
Narrated by John Solo, this perhaps wasn’t the best choice. I have no problem with Solo and have enjoyed his performances in the past, but his voice is a far cry from a teenager and maybe in his enthusiasm to bring a more youthful tone, I found many of his other character voices over the top. However, said enthusiasm did bring a lively vibe to the bite-your-nails situations that Theo finds himself in, and I sorta kinda forgot to be distracted by the incongruous narration.
One might have to suspend belief too, that a 16 year old is the top IT person at supposedly, a covert secret agency whose sole purpose is to do the tough jobs other governments can’t do. When another faction is in direct conflict with Theo’s employer and hacks into their system, it puts all of their agents in danger, and it’s Theo who has to decide whether or not to move his support status to full operational mode. To add to the stakes, Theo’s dad is one of the very agents in danger.
Overall, easy listening and an easy story to enjoy with again, the above reasons just for being representative. That, in and of itself, is enough to bring me back for more!
Thanks to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
Pretty much all the points goes towards this being a great LGBT-YA story about 16 year old computer genius Theo, who along with his parents, fights the good fight working as a top secret agent.
Theo’s like any other teenager. He plays sports, hates math, and has a part time job. He even has a boyfriend, and it was refreshing that this was not once an issue which is probably, sadly unrealistic. Regardless, this was simply an example of what teen life is - balancing responsibilities, suffering through growing pains, and making tough decisions - just with the added bonus of keeping secrets and coming face to face with life or death situations.
Narrated by John Solo, this perhaps wasn’t the best choice. I have no problem with Solo and have enjoyed his performances in the past, but his voice is a far cry from a teenager and maybe in his enthusiasm to bring a more youthful tone, I found many of his other character voices over the top. However, said enthusiasm did bring a lively vibe to the bite-your-nails situations that Theo finds himself in, and I sorta kinda forgot to be distracted by the incongruous narration.
One might have to suspend belief too, that a 16 year old is the top IT person at supposedly, a covert secret agency whose sole purpose is to do the tough jobs other governments can’t do. When another faction is in direct conflict with Theo’s employer and hacks into their system, it puts all of their agents in danger, and it’s Theo who has to decide whether or not to move his support status to full operational mode. To add to the stakes, Theo’s dad is one of the very agents in danger.
Overall, easy listening and an easy story to enjoy with again, the above reasons just for being representative. That, in and of itself, is enough to bring me back for more!
Thanks to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
May 18, 2019
4 Stars
I said earlier in the week that I needed to move some of Jeff's books up on my TBR and I am ever so glad that I did! All the technobabble went way over my head (and frankly sounded a bit far-fetched) but I didn't care. It was like listening to a more developed Spy Kids (grown some), mixed with a bit of Veronica Mars & Buffy. But not really. Because it's nothing like those.
Confused? I was too. But not by the story, but by how much I enjoyed the whole experience. YA is such a hit & miss endeavor for me...but I'm hooked on this series now. Adding the next one to the TBR and challenge shelves...only, I'm kinda holding out until I know whether John Solo will be narrating the other two. Or if there will be audiobooks coming for those at all. *crossing fingers*
I said earlier in the week that I needed to move some of Jeff's books up on my TBR and I am ever so glad that I did! All the technobabble went way over my head (and frankly sounded a bit far-fetched) but I didn't care. It was like listening to a more developed Spy Kids (grown some), mixed with a bit of Veronica Mars & Buffy. But not really. Because it's nothing like those.
Confused? I was too. But not by the story, but by how much I enjoyed the whole experience. YA is such a hit & miss endeavor for me...but I'm hooked on this series now. Adding the next one to the TBR and challenge shelves...only, I'm kinda holding out until I know whether John Solo will be narrating the other two. Or if there will be audiobooks coming for those at all. *crossing fingers*
January 20, 2019
3.5 stars
Maybe I start to be repetitive but I have to admit (again) that this book could make a nice movie. Kind of Spy Kids, only with a bit older actors in the main role - a Spy Teen.
Theo Reese, our protagonist, is a sixteen-year-old student with outstanding computer skills. He is so good that already in his young age he becomes an indispensable member of the IT-Department of Tactical Operational Support, a secret government organization, in short TOC, where his parents work also as secret agents. Apart from his exceptional after-school-work, Theo is a normal teenager, who plays ice hockey, is not bad in school and likes to spend his free time with his boy-friend Eddie, who has no idea about a hidden double life of his dearest.
An unexpected hostile hacker attack on the TOC's network puts not only the existence of the organization in a serious danger but also turns into a deadly danger to many agents, including his parents. It looks like Theo is the only one who can handle the situation. One expects from him fast action, a clear head and a high degree of professionalism. Will he be able to cope with this complicated task? Be prepared: There are many great twists that will keep you on the end of your seat.
I pretty much enjoyed this fast-paced-action story. It was suspenseful and entertaining at the same time. The characters are nicely developed, they are likable and very real, apart from Theo's unusual after-school-job. I read it almost at the same time when a hacker scandal occupied our media: someone hacked our political system and disclosed the private contents of many politicians. To a huge surprise of the parties involved, it were not Russian hackers but a local student of 20 year old. The whole case was awkward (for our IT Government Security Services) and amusing (for the rest of the German population). So, maybe the part of Theo being a secret agent and working for a secret organization is not THAT fictional.
John Solo did a good job presenting different voices for different characters. But I needed some times to get used to his narration. One of the reason: he sounds much older than a sixteen-year-old guy. Actually his voice is of a forty-year old man. But his versatility in performance makes it almost completely well again. And at the end of the audio book I didn't bother about his somewhat older protagonist voice.
My other issue is probably a lot of technical stuff in the story, especially when Theo brings his ingenious skill alive and when he is completely in his element. I can imagine that, for example, my mother would have a big problem to understand what is going on while Theo tries to safe his dad. On the other hand I can't imagine how one could write a hacker novel totally avoiding the technical subject.
I would recommend this book in the first place for those fans of YA genre who have more or less an idea of how a computer works.
As a little note: it is NOT a romance novel. Theo and Eddie is an established couple.
***ARC provided kindly by the publisher to GBR in exchange for an honest review.***
February 8, 2019
This book was interesting. I didn't understand much of the technology lingo throughout the entirety of the book, though not knowing what the characters were talking about didn't take anything away from the story for me. This was kind of like listening to a Spy Kids movie as a book, but with a gay main character, making it so much better in my opinion.
Theo, the main character, is basically the IT mind behind a secret agency. A few times I was a little confused about his age and how he knew so much about hacking and IT-related things. I mean he was only 16 but sometimes when they talked about his experience and schooling and how early he started out it made him seem older to me. I almost wish he was more like 17-18yrs starting out. It would have made it seem a little more realistic (even though this is a YA fiction story).
Theo's boyfriend really annoyed me with his thoughts and actions during the entire book. I kind of wanted him to be associated with the "bad guys" so Theo and the team could take him out of the equation. Lol. But darn it, that wasn't part of the story. This book was good overall though. I'm really interested to see where the next few books of this story are headed and if Theo sticks with the agency or splits to do his own thing. I could read books like this all day; the story keeps you interested with the action, drama and mystery behind the plot, with just the tiniest smidge of younger romance, which still keeps the characters on the more sweet and cute side. Well done with the plot lines and keeping us interested in how everything plays out.
Audio - John Solo did a great job with this one. His voicing was perfect for Theo's character, as well as everyone else and he really added an extra level to this book with his narration. I hope they stick with him as the narrator if the next few books are produced. He is definitely the voice of Theo; no one else will do him justice now. Lol.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Theo, the main character, is basically the IT mind behind a secret agency. A few times I was a little confused about his age and how he knew so much about hacking and IT-related things. I mean he was only 16 but sometimes when they talked about his experience and schooling and how early he started out it made him seem older to me. I almost wish he was more like 17-18yrs starting out. It would have made it seem a little more realistic (even though this is a YA fiction story).
Theo's boyfriend really annoyed me with his thoughts and actions during the entire book. I kind of wanted him to be associated with the "bad guys" so Theo and the team could take him out of the equation. Lol. But darn it, that wasn't part of the story. This book was good overall though. I'm really interested to see where the next few books of this story are headed and if Theo sticks with the agency or splits to do his own thing. I could read books like this all day; the story keeps you interested with the action, drama and mystery behind the plot, with just the tiniest smidge of younger romance, which still keeps the characters on the more sweet and cute side. Well done with the plot lines and keeping us interested in how everything plays out.
Audio - John Solo did a great job with this one. His voicing was perfect for Theo's character, as well as everyone else and he really added an extra level to this book with his narration. I hope they stick with him as the narrator if the next few books are produced. He is definitely the voice of Theo; no one else will do him justice now. Lol.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 23, 2019
I liked the bits with Theo and Eddie, and that was about it. The rest was deadly dull. This should’ve had the tension and excitement of a thriller but didn’t. Theo was too perfect (there aren’t enough hours in the day to do all that he handles easily) and his relationship with his parents was too perfect. They didn’t feel like real people at all.
April 1, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
racker Hacker is a fun, fast-paced, and well-balanced YA thriller. For me, it reminded me of my favorite cartoon spy, Kim Possible—another gifted teenager whose parents know and fully support their child’s spy activity. Except in Tracker Hacker, the whole family is involved, and I really enjoyed how Jeff Adams handled this parent/co-worker dynamic, particularly when the stakes are raised and Theo is exposed to an unprecedented amount of danger. Additionally, I liked that Theo and Eddie’s relationship is already established and the reader gets to experience how the stress and secrecy of Theo’s job affects them as a couple, but isn’t the main point of the story. I think Adams mostly does a good job balancing Eddie’s frustration with the demands on Theo’s time and, later the feeling Theo isn’t being honest with him, with Eddie’s genuine concern for Theo’s well being. Most importantly to the story, Adams does a great job pulling the reader into Theo’s world; he explains the technical aspect of Theo’s work in an engaging way and manages to convey Theo’s joy for what he does in such a way that I felt being behind a computer screen could be as exciting as the car chase/fist fights typically associated with being a secret agent.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
racker Hacker is a fun, fast-paced, and well-balanced YA thriller. For me, it reminded me of my favorite cartoon spy, Kim Possible—another gifted teenager whose parents know and fully support their child’s spy activity. Except in Tracker Hacker, the whole family is involved, and I really enjoyed how Jeff Adams handled this parent/co-worker dynamic, particularly when the stakes are raised and Theo is exposed to an unprecedented amount of danger. Additionally, I liked that Theo and Eddie’s relationship is already established and the reader gets to experience how the stress and secrecy of Theo’s job affects them as a couple, but isn’t the main point of the story. I think Adams mostly does a good job balancing Eddie’s frustration with the demands on Theo’s time and, later the feeling Theo isn’t being honest with him, with Eddie’s genuine concern for Theo’s well being. Most importantly to the story, Adams does a great job pulling the reader into Theo’s world; he explains the technical aspect of Theo’s work in an engaging way and manages to convey Theo’s joy for what he does in such a way that I felt being behind a computer screen could be as exciting as the car chase/fist fights typically associated with being a secret agent.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
July 14, 2021
3 stars
My enjoyment of this book mostly comes from the medium on which I read it. If you know me, you know that YA thriller books about an established couple are not something I ever read but give me those books as an audiobook and they’re like catnip to me. I’m still not the biggest fan of teens in books and I still prefer a couple that isn’t established before the book but I really love these type of thrillers as audiobooks. I always listen to audiobooks when doing homework and the audiobook for this book made doing homework that much more enjoyable, and I had a lovely time listening to it. Also, it doesn’t hurt that Kirt Graves has a really nice voice and that I love listening to it. And the book’s pacing was really good and I had a good time listening to it.
Also, Theo is 16 years old and a secret agent and he has a boyfriend and a perfect life, which isn’t very realistic, but it didn’t dim my enjoyment of the audiobook, I still had so much fun listening to this.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
My enjoyment of this book mostly comes from the medium on which I read it. If you know me, you know that YA thriller books about an established couple are not something I ever read but give me those books as an audiobook and they’re like catnip to me. I’m still not the biggest fan of teens in books and I still prefer a couple that isn’t established before the book but I really love these type of thrillers as audiobooks. I always listen to audiobooks when doing homework and the audiobook for this book made doing homework that much more enjoyable, and I had a lovely time listening to it. Also, it doesn’t hurt that Kirt Graves has a really nice voice and that I love listening to it. And the book’s pacing was really good and I had a good time listening to it.
Also, Theo is 16 years old and a secret agent and he has a boyfriend and a perfect life, which isn’t very realistic, but it didn’t dim my enjoyment of the audiobook, I still had so much fun listening to this.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
November 2, 2017
I'm a HUGE fan of YA (Young Adult) books ... it's where my heart truly is. I love everything about it--the awkwardness and sometimes painful self-discoveries, the ups and downs of being a teenager, the way the characters look at the world around them. Combine that with some Jason Bourne spy stuff and hockey and man, I'm 100% in. When I saw the blurb for Tracker Hacker by Jeff Adams, I knew this was going to be a book I had to have in my life. And let me tell you guys, I was not wrong. Wow! Talk about a wild ride from beginning to end! I could not stop reading and was completely enthralled from the first page until the last.
Theo Reese is your typical teenager. He hangs out with his friends, plays hockey, and likes to make-out with his boyfriend, Eddie. He has a pretty decent relationship with his parents, school's not so bad ... he's even so smart that he takes a few classes at MIT. Yes, THAT MIT. Oh and on the side he just so happens to work for a super secret organization called Tactical Operation Support as a computer wiz and even has a cool codename--Winger. His parents work for the same organization, and together they secretly help keep people safe. It's not such a bad gig, though Theo has to lie to his friends and to Eddie, something that's getting harder and harder to manage the longer he has to do it. Theo loves helping people and he's pretty stoked at being able to use his brilliant brain to solve complex technical computer problems. When things start getting dangerous, for not only Theo but his family and the agents of TOS, Theo begins to understand exactly how much his double life might cost him.
Guys, Tracker Hacker was tons of fun! Fast paced, witty, and exciting, it's everything a fantastic YA book (well, any book I suppose) should be. Theo was equal parts sarcastic and sweet. He has a huge, important job and he's brilliant, but he also has responsibilities to his hockey teammates and to Eddie. It's not always easy to balance and he makes mistakes, but he tries his best. I really liked his relationship with Eddie. They were fantastic together and you could definitely tell they love one another. I enjoyed the conflict here, of Theo having to hide this super secret part of his life, but wanting and trying to make time to spend with Eddie. The whole plot really grabbed my attention and didn't let go though the tech speak got a bit hard to follow at times and seemed to slow the story down in a few spots. All in all though, Tracker Hacker was a roller coaster of a ride and I can't wait to see where Jeff Adams takes the series next. Be sure to check it out, you won't be sorry!
*this review will also be posted on www.diversereader.blogspot.com*
Theo Reese is your typical teenager. He hangs out with his friends, plays hockey, and likes to make-out with his boyfriend, Eddie. He has a pretty decent relationship with his parents, school's not so bad ... he's even so smart that he takes a few classes at MIT. Yes, THAT MIT. Oh and on the side he just so happens to work for a super secret organization called Tactical Operation Support as a computer wiz and even has a cool codename--Winger. His parents work for the same organization, and together they secretly help keep people safe. It's not such a bad gig, though Theo has to lie to his friends and to Eddie, something that's getting harder and harder to manage the longer he has to do it. Theo loves helping people and he's pretty stoked at being able to use his brilliant brain to solve complex technical computer problems. When things start getting dangerous, for not only Theo but his family and the agents of TOS, Theo begins to understand exactly how much his double life might cost him.
Guys, Tracker Hacker was tons of fun! Fast paced, witty, and exciting, it's everything a fantastic YA book (well, any book I suppose) should be. Theo was equal parts sarcastic and sweet. He has a huge, important job and he's brilliant, but he also has responsibilities to his hockey teammates and to Eddie. It's not always easy to balance and he makes mistakes, but he tries his best. I really liked his relationship with Eddie. They were fantastic together and you could definitely tell they love one another. I enjoyed the conflict here, of Theo having to hide this super secret part of his life, but wanting and trying to make time to spend with Eddie. The whole plot really grabbed my attention and didn't let go though the tech speak got a bit hard to follow at times and seemed to slow the story down in a few spots. All in all though, Tracker Hacker was a roller coaster of a ride and I can't wait to see where Jeff Adams takes the series next. Be sure to check it out, you won't be sorry!
*this review will also be posted on www.diversereader.blogspot.com*
May 23, 2018
This was not what I expected and was a welcomed change from the typical.
Theo is a good hockey player but he isn’t the greatest. He’s also a spy. But unlike what you’d see in most thrillers like this, he isn’t Alex Rider, super ninja. He’s a regular kid with major computer skills. He isn’t a super hero level athlete with unbelievable spy fighting skills. That was refreshing. I liked that he was a good hockey player but not capable of overcoming everything thrown his way.
What does a regular person do in impossible situations? I love that.
Now his hacking skills set him apart. I can’t say I want anyone out there capable of doing what he did. Especially not out there robocalling me for security breaches into my credit card! But fighting for the little guy and the good guy? Ok! I wondered if the writer actually knows all that tech babble or spent a lot of time researching hacking stuff. Does researching it for a book put the author on a watchlist!
This has classic super secret, well connected, spy agency stuff, mixed with hockey tournament aspects, and boyfriend trust issues brought on by one of them being, you know, a lying, secret holding spy.
It’s a fun read with relatable characters I would like to engage with more. Luckily there’s a sequel I have to get now.
Theo is a good hockey player but he isn’t the greatest. He’s also a spy. But unlike what you’d see in most thrillers like this, he isn’t Alex Rider, super ninja. He’s a regular kid with major computer skills. He isn’t a super hero level athlete with unbelievable spy fighting skills. That was refreshing. I liked that he was a good hockey player but not capable of overcoming everything thrown his way.
What does a regular person do in impossible situations? I love that.
Now his hacking skills set him apart. I can’t say I want anyone out there capable of doing what he did. Especially not out there robocalling me for security breaches into my credit card! But fighting for the little guy and the good guy? Ok! I wondered if the writer actually knows all that tech babble or spent a lot of time researching hacking stuff. Does researching it for a book put the author on a watchlist!
This has classic super secret, well connected, spy agency stuff, mixed with hockey tournament aspects, and boyfriend trust issues brought on by one of them being, you know, a lying, secret holding spy.
It’s a fun read with relatable characters I would like to engage with more. Luckily there’s a sequel I have to get now.
February 19, 2019
Well, I’m almost at a loss for words for this review. First of all, I listened to the audiobook and kudos to John Solo for a great job portraying a variety of voices, both male and female, especially given the MCs were teenagers.
Second, I must be honest in that I thought the story ended rather abruptly. I knew it was first in a series but I didn’t realize so many threads would remain open when the book ended. And suddenly it was over.
And third, the plot was incredibly complex as it dealt with computer programming, coding, and electronic communication. The espionage business is alive and well in this story. So kudos to the author for a complicated and interesting plot.
Theo is a high school hockey player whose parents are both spies. Though only sixteen, his genius is more than welcome in their organization—TOS: Tactical Operational Support—and he’s their go-to guy when the electronics get complex. His code name is Winger, and in this installment, Winger is called upon to stop whatever group is behind the plot to deactivate the tracking devices each agent has implanted. Things go from bad to worse when they find the devices have been taken over and the enemy is using them to mind-control the agents. And that includes Winger’s dad who goes missing. Amidst the espionage plot, Theo and his boyfriend Eddie try to find alone time, though Eddie is injured, while stopping a kidnapping attempt on Theo. The plot is very complex with mystery, romance, and lots of computer geek speak.
I’d recommend it to those who enjoy a YA story, especially when mixed with espionage and intrigue.
Audiobook provided through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
Second, I must be honest in that I thought the story ended rather abruptly. I knew it was first in a series but I didn’t realize so many threads would remain open when the book ended. And suddenly it was over.
And third, the plot was incredibly complex as it dealt with computer programming, coding, and electronic communication. The espionage business is alive and well in this story. So kudos to the author for a complicated and interesting plot.
Theo is a high school hockey player whose parents are both spies. Though only sixteen, his genius is more than welcome in their organization—TOS: Tactical Operational Support—and he’s their go-to guy when the electronics get complex. His code name is Winger, and in this installment, Winger is called upon to stop whatever group is behind the plot to deactivate the tracking devices each agent has implanted. Things go from bad to worse when they find the devices have been taken over and the enemy is using them to mind-control the agents. And that includes Winger’s dad who goes missing. Amidst the espionage plot, Theo and his boyfriend Eddie try to find alone time, though Eddie is injured, while stopping a kidnapping attempt on Theo. The plot is very complex with mystery, romance, and lots of computer geek speak.
I’d recommend it to those who enjoy a YA story, especially when mixed with espionage and intrigue.
Audiobook provided through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
October 8, 2017
Tracker Hacker (Codename: Winger #1) by Jeff Adams
4.5 stars
M/M Thriller/Romance
Triggers: Government agencies, mind control
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is a great YA story that really delivers on the mystery/thriller aspect. You have Winger (I love the hockey theme in this too) who is a young high school student with an aptitude for computers and code. I loved his character. Despite the tough life that already follow high school kids around, he takes on much more and wants to be part of the larger, better, bigger picture.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between all of the agency characters and felt that this aspect of the story was the most successful one. They all were developed well and I thought that they interacted in a very good way. These characters made the story.
What I felt lacked the most was the romance/relationship aspect of this story. I didn't really understand why Winger was with his boyfriend who seemed clingy and whiny at times. I think this would have been much more successful as just a mystery/thriller without the romantic aspect, but I really liked the story and can't wait to see what Winger does next!
4.5 stars
M/M Thriller/Romance
Triggers: Government agencies, mind control
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is a great YA story that really delivers on the mystery/thriller aspect. You have Winger (I love the hockey theme in this too) who is a young high school student with an aptitude for computers and code. I loved his character. Despite the tough life that already follow high school kids around, he takes on much more and wants to be part of the larger, better, bigger picture.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between all of the agency characters and felt that this aspect of the story was the most successful one. They all were developed well and I thought that they interacted in a very good way. These characters made the story.
What I felt lacked the most was the romance/relationship aspect of this story. I didn't really understand why Winger was with his boyfriend who seemed clingy and whiny at times. I think this would have been much more successful as just a mystery/thriller without the romantic aspect, but I really liked the story and can't wait to see what Winger does next!
June 16, 2018
I really liked this book, even though I had to suspend my disbelief most of the time. The plot was pretty much over the top, but that didn’t matter, as I was involved in the story telling right from the beginning. The book flowed along at a cracking pace; it was exciting and I was very interested to see how things would work out.
I liked the two main characters, Theo and his boyfriend Eddie. It was nice to see their relationship played out in such a normal way, with no-one raising an eyebrow, although that was a little hard to believe in a sporting environment.
There were a few negatives, but this story was just what I needed right now – an easy to read "Mission Impossible" style romp, where even though the technical computer stuff went right over my head, it didn’t matter. I was so caught up in the story, I just went with the flow.
I liked the two main characters, Theo and his boyfriend Eddie. It was nice to see their relationship played out in such a normal way, with no-one raising an eyebrow, although that was a little hard to believe in a sporting environment.
There were a few negatives, but this story was just what I needed right now – an easy to read "Mission Impossible" style romp, where even though the technical computer stuff went right over my head, it didn’t matter. I was so caught up in the story, I just went with the flow.
June 24, 2020
3.5 out of 5 - Good, Fun Start to the series, caught my imagination of "what if" for me in H.S.
February 13, 2019
MC is a gay hockey player in a cute relationship and he's also a tech geek? Great start. Fun book with pretty good writing. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
October 16, 2017
This was truly an incredible read. It is suspenseful. It is action packed. It is full of danger and mystery. It also has Love included in the read with a lot of wondering what is going to happen next and just who is good or who is bad. Most of all it has shocking twist and turns that you may not see coming. What more can you ask for in a book this great.
Winger (Aka Theo to his friends) is an undercover agent. But what makes him even more special is he is a computer genius to start but more so is the fact that he is an incredible agent whom is only a junior in high school. So for Theo this is a huge accomplishment but it is also hard on him too because he cannot let his boyfriend Eddie or his friends in on his and his family's secret. He had to keep that part of his life separate from them or it could endanger each of them if not.
Keeping this secret is not so easy, especially when it comes to Eddie. Lately the secrets he holds so close to his heart are getting harder to hide because his secret life is starting to get more and more dangerous as agents are disappearing from The TOS system and worse yet his father is one of the agents that is missing.
So for Theo to keep this from others he has to figure out how to become an amazing liar and quick before someone, namely Eddie, figures out something is very wrong. As the danger increases so do the lies. If Theo is not careful he is going to lose not only his boyfriend, who is now starting to question Theo, but he could also lose his father and his own life if her is not careful.
I truly enjoyed this read. It really was an amazing read. I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out because for some reason I think Eddie is hiding some of his own secrets. I may be wrong and he may not have anything to hide but for some reason I just feel that there is more going on with him then meets the eye. I can't wait to see if I am right or not. Amazing read!!!!
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Winger (Aka Theo to his friends) is an undercover agent. But what makes him even more special is he is a computer genius to start but more so is the fact that he is an incredible agent whom is only a junior in high school. So for Theo this is a huge accomplishment but it is also hard on him too because he cannot let his boyfriend Eddie or his friends in on his and his family's secret. He had to keep that part of his life separate from them or it could endanger each of them if not.
Keeping this secret is not so easy, especially when it comes to Eddie. Lately the secrets he holds so close to his heart are getting harder to hide because his secret life is starting to get more and more dangerous as agents are disappearing from The TOS system and worse yet his father is one of the agents that is missing.
So for Theo to keep this from others he has to figure out how to become an amazing liar and quick before someone, namely Eddie, figures out something is very wrong. As the danger increases so do the lies. If Theo is not careful he is going to lose not only his boyfriend, who is now starting to question Theo, but he could also lose his father and his own life if her is not careful.
I truly enjoyed this read. It really was an amazing read. I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out because for some reason I think Eddie is hiding some of his own secrets. I may be wrong and he may not have anything to hide but for some reason I just feel that there is more going on with him then meets the eye. I can't wait to see if I am right or not. Amazing read!!!!
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
July 29, 2018
New to me author, although I have followed Jeff on Social Media for a while. This is a YA mm contemporary story. Loved every word and couldn’t put it down. I’ll read this author again.
June 2, 2020
This was so good! I have been glued to my NOOK as I quickly read this. Theo is a genius when it comes to computers, code, and hacking. So good in fact, he works basically as a consultant for a spy organization called TOS. He thinks outside of the box, approaching problems and situations like no one else.
Oh, and he's a high school kid and hockey player as well. He has a boyfriend, Eddie, and the two of them are so damn cute together.
Things start to go south for both TOS and Theo. Agents are disappearing. Theo is almost kidnapped, and that's the highlight to what's in store for him. Intense and nail-biting while Theo tries to keep his head together in situations where no normal kid should be while saving himself and the world.
I've had this on my NOOK for a couple of years, and I'm kicking myself for having not read it earlier. I'm seriously kicking myself because now I can't find an e-book copy of the series ANYWHERE. And I really, really want to read the rest of the series!
Oh, and he's a high school kid and hockey player as well. He has a boyfriend, Eddie, and the two of them are so damn cute together.
Things start to go south for both TOS and Theo. Agents are disappearing. Theo is almost kidnapped, and that's the highlight to what's in store for him. Intense and nail-biting while Theo tries to keep his head together in situations where no normal kid should be while saving himself and the world.
I've had this on my NOOK for a couple of years, and I'm kicking myself for having not read it earlier. I'm seriously kicking myself because now I can't find an e-book copy of the series ANYWHERE. And I really, really want to read the rest of the series!
August 10, 2021
‘Tracker Hacker’ is a story about a modern-day superhero – one with special “powers” around computers. It’s a fitting tale for the world we face today, and I think it only make sense that he is a teenager. After all, teenagers today grew up with all this cybertechnology around them, so they are much better suited to dealing with it. But Theo, the hero of this story who tells it in first person, is much more than a young man with a talent for hacking. He has secret agents for parents, and when TOS, their agency, discovers Theo’s talents – well, let me just say they know what to do with his abilities.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 15, 2019
I don't usually read YA, but I love Jeff's other books so I read this series. It is great. Suspenseful and sweet at the same time.
September 9, 2017
I enjoyed this book a lot. Theo and Eddie were adorable together. I think what I liked the most about it were the moments they shared and how aged appropriate they seemed. I’d read YA books before, they aren’t my favorite genre because I feel frequently that the characters attitude doesn’t match their age. I didn’t have the same problem here. I think Theo’s reactions to events, his emotions and general way to act, was exactly what I could expect from someone his age, the same with Eddie.
I was easily involved in the story, but there were moments in the middle of the book where I lost interest. I was back on track at the end with some very interesting events and overall I liked it very much. The plot was great. I was worried all the time about how things might work with Eddie and whether Theo might tell him what was going on or deal with the consequences. I think the biggest issues I had with the book were the tech stuff. I struggle a lot trying to understand what everything they were saying meant, and fail horrendously. That was the reason why I lost interest at times, when I didn’t understand because, even though it was part of the story, I think there were too much details about tech. The mystery part of the book was nice, it had some ups and downs but near the end everything was very exciting.
I also had some issues trying to remember everyone’s name and code name, it became frustrating at times and I had to stop and think who they were talking about, while I keep reading it got better but it wasn’t that easy. I had an especial soft point for the villains, I felt very intrigued by them and I would love to know more about them.
Another thing I liked was the family. When mom was being just mom and not the agent, and the interactions between every member of the family were very caring and sweet. Overall this was a great book. I had some problems with it but I guess it had more to do with my lack of knowledge about technology than the story itself.
I was easily involved in the story, but there were moments in the middle of the book where I lost interest. I was back on track at the end with some very interesting events and overall I liked it very much. The plot was great. I was worried all the time about how things might work with Eddie and whether Theo might tell him what was going on or deal with the consequences. I think the biggest issues I had with the book were the tech stuff. I struggle a lot trying to understand what everything they were saying meant, and fail horrendously. That was the reason why I lost interest at times, when I didn’t understand because, even though it was part of the story, I think there were too much details about tech. The mystery part of the book was nice, it had some ups and downs but near the end everything was very exciting.
I also had some issues trying to remember everyone’s name and code name, it became frustrating at times and I had to stop and think who they were talking about, while I keep reading it got better but it wasn’t that easy. I had an especial soft point for the villains, I felt very intrigued by them and I would love to know more about them.
Another thing I liked was the family. When mom was being just mom and not the agent, and the interactions between every member of the family were very caring and sweet. Overall this was a great book. I had some problems with it but I guess it had more to do with my lack of knowledge about technology than the story itself.
August 21, 2018
Tracker Hacker by Jeff Adams is a fast paced story following Theo Reece, a sixteen-year-old tech whiz. He and his parents both work for an organization called Tactical Operations Support (TOS), his parents working as active operatives and Theo working behind the scenes helping out with the IT side of things. Along with his extraordinary talent in programming, he is also a talented hockey player and has an unbelievably understanding boyfriend. When he finds himself immersed in the middle of a field operation, he must rely solely on his gut and instinct, his choices making the difference between life and death…for himself and everyone he loves.
This was a fantastic read. From start to finish, the pace kept me going. The character development moves the story forward, but Mr. Adams doesn’t drag anything out. We quickly move into the action and with each passing scene, the tension rises like any good work of fiction should. Twists and turns amp the nail-biting as the climax builds and then explodes in a highly satisfying ending.
When I first picked this book to review, I was expecting to read a story about a teen in love. I kind of expected it might be a coming-of-age story dealing with a young gay man learning life lessons that would propel him toward adulthood. The romance aspect of this story was definitely a sideline, not the main plot. While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that to readers.
That said, the story was well worth every minute I spent reading. Mr. Adams does an excellent job of describing the technical aspects of IT work. It’s clear that Theo is no ordinary teen. He’s far more talented than some of the most highly trained adults in the field. Through all these technical descriptions, Mr. Adams has done a wonderful job of making sure the reader doesn’t get lost. I know nothing of programming, yet I was able to follow everything Theo did and was able to admire his actions throughout the story.
Another interesting twist was the family dynamic. Both his parents are TOS agents, and when Theo is interacting with them from a TOS perspective, he needs to follow protocol, calling them by code names and maintaining security. There are even things he works on that he can’t share with his parents, and they, as experts, understand and accept this. However, they all slide between TOS roles and family roles in endearing ways. I loved the moments when they had to switch between TOS and family.
All in all, an excellent read, and I can’t wait to get book two to see how the journey continues.
Reviewed by Taz for The Novel Approach
This was a fantastic read. From start to finish, the pace kept me going. The character development moves the story forward, but Mr. Adams doesn’t drag anything out. We quickly move into the action and with each passing scene, the tension rises like any good work of fiction should. Twists and turns amp the nail-biting as the climax builds and then explodes in a highly satisfying ending.
When I first picked this book to review, I was expecting to read a story about a teen in love. I kind of expected it might be a coming-of-age story dealing with a young gay man learning life lessons that would propel him toward adulthood. The romance aspect of this story was definitely a sideline, not the main plot. While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that to readers.
That said, the story was well worth every minute I spent reading. Mr. Adams does an excellent job of describing the technical aspects of IT work. It’s clear that Theo is no ordinary teen. He’s far more talented than some of the most highly trained adults in the field. Through all these technical descriptions, Mr. Adams has done a wonderful job of making sure the reader doesn’t get lost. I know nothing of programming, yet I was able to follow everything Theo did and was able to admire his actions throughout the story.
Another interesting twist was the family dynamic. Both his parents are TOS agents, and when Theo is interacting with them from a TOS perspective, he needs to follow protocol, calling them by code names and maintaining security. There are even things he works on that he can’t share with his parents, and they, as experts, understand and accept this. However, they all slide between TOS roles and family roles in endearing ways. I loved the moments when they had to switch between TOS and family.
All in all, an excellent read, and I can’t wait to get book two to see how the journey continues.
Reviewed by Taz for The Novel Approach
September 22, 2017
Secret Agent Boy
If a computer wiz married James Bond you would get Theo Reese. He's a brilliant boy who really knows computers. His parents are spies and he works for the organization after school in the computer IT Department. Read other reviews and the blurb for this book for a description of the plot.
I loved this book and it reminded me of a few movies where a teenager is a spy. This one is different because the teenager works in the computer Department, behind the scenes. This was a wonderful original plot. It had just the right amount of action and suspense and it showed his life at school and at home. He has a boyfriend that he needs to hide everything from and I kept wishing that he would just tell him already.
For being a teenager, Theo, acts more like an adult. He has the wisdom and knowledge and a great sense of responsibility and priorities. I kind of wished he would have acted a little more like a normal teenager doing teenage stuff.
My only criticism of the book is it was very technical when it spoke about what he was doing with programs and computers. The computer speak was a bit lengthy as well. It felt like this book was written for people who are computer programmers or know the inside of a computer. The storyline was so good, though, that I just kept reading the book.
I do highly recommend this book for those who love young adult stories with an established gay relationship and who know a bit about computers as well.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Reviews
If a computer wiz married James Bond you would get Theo Reese. He's a brilliant boy who really knows computers. His parents are spies and he works for the organization after school in the computer IT Department. Read other reviews and the blurb for this book for a description of the plot.
I loved this book and it reminded me of a few movies where a teenager is a spy. This one is different because the teenager works in the computer Department, behind the scenes. This was a wonderful original plot. It had just the right amount of action and suspense and it showed his life at school and at home. He has a boyfriend that he needs to hide everything from and I kept wishing that he would just tell him already.
For being a teenager, Theo, acts more like an adult. He has the wisdom and knowledge and a great sense of responsibility and priorities. I kind of wished he would have acted a little more like a normal teenager doing teenage stuff.
My only criticism of the book is it was very technical when it spoke about what he was doing with programs and computers. The computer speak was a bit lengthy as well. It felt like this book was written for people who are computer programmers or know the inside of a computer. The storyline was so good, though, that I just kept reading the book.
I do highly recommend this book for those who love young adult stories with an established gay relationship and who know a bit about computers as well.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review by Gay Book Reviews
August 25, 2021
The strange and magical world of a computer genius
I am kind of reluctant to call this a romance, because there is very little of it. MC is already in a relationship and it has an impact on the plot, but not that much. It is mostly all about secret agents, secret plots, a loooot of computer magic happening, as well as some adventure and saving the world. Despite it being a YA novel with little romance, I still enjoyed it. The MC was not annoying or playing too much into the whole hormonal, unstable teenager trope. He was smart, funny and sweet. A really great character. The plot was awesome too. Even though I struggled a bit with all those computer and programming related words, I got used to them eventually. Even without understanding all that specific lingo, I could still follow the plot and enjoy the story as it develops.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
I am kind of reluctant to call this a romance, because there is very little of it. MC is already in a relationship and it has an impact on the plot, but not that much. It is mostly all about secret agents, secret plots, a loooot of computer magic happening, as well as some adventure and saving the world. Despite it being a YA novel with little romance, I still enjoyed it. The MC was not annoying or playing too much into the whole hormonal, unstable teenager trope. He was smart, funny and sweet. A really great character. The plot was awesome too. Even though I struggled a bit with all those computer and programming related words, I got used to them eventually. Even without understanding all that specific lingo, I could still follow the plot and enjoy the story as it develops.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
October 31, 2021
I listened to this years ago, but the entire series has been re-released with a new narrator so I wanted to refresh my memory of book 1 before continuing on to book 2. The series follows Theo, a high school hockey player who, along with his parents, is also an agent for a secret government agency. His role as the tech guy means that he isn't usually the one in harms way, but I'm going to guess that that's about to change as we get deeper into these books.
I don't know if there was any change in the text of the story for the new edition, but the story did challenge my memory. Were events added/removed? I'm not sure. (I'll probably ask the author at some point.) I already liked the story, but somehow found myself even more interested in the series with this new edition ... upping my original rating of 4 up to a 5.
As an added bonus, the new audiobook included a Christmas short, which was adorable.
I don't know if there was any change in the text of the story for the new edition, but the story did challenge my memory. Were events added/removed? I'm not sure. (I'll probably ask the author at some point.) I already liked the story, but somehow found myself even more interested in the series with this new edition ... upping my original rating of 4 up to a 5.
As an added bonus, the new audiobook included a Christmas short, which was adorable.
October 31, 2017
This book has so many amazing twists and turns. I think I pulled in every bit of information I could and used it in my game of Clue. Tracker Hacker is a race against time before Theo/Winger is discovered, his life destroyed, and everything he's worked hard for gone.
You can see my full review here: http://christinasbookshelf.net/2017/1...
You can see my full review here: http://christinasbookshelf.net/2017/1...
November 8, 2017
Ok, first off, Jeff is one of my favorite authors. He is a master of the gay hockey romance genre. Now, he’s added a secret agent aspect to the mix and it’s a nice combination. I was really trying to dole out the book, but there’s a moment about halfway through with which I could not put the book down. I really can’t recommend this book enough!
July 15, 2021
I’m not exactly sure why it’s taken me so long to pick up a book by Jeff Adams, especially since he’s been on my radar for a while. On the plus side, since I’m late to the Codename: Winger party, I don’t have to wait between books. 😉
I’m not sure what I expected from Tracker Hacker, but I’m pretty sure that I got a lot more than I bargained for.
Theo Reese isn’t your average sixteen year old, even if you don’t take into consideration his secret life. He’s a better than average hockey player as well as a computer whiz. He’s also a loyal boyfriend and friend, which makes keeping his secret life secret more than a little complicated. He hates keeping things from his boyfriend. It’s getting harder and harder because Eddie isn’t dumb and he knows that Theo is keeping secrets. He’s just hoping that Eddie trusts him enough to stick by him.
I loved the intrigue surrounding this story. There was a lot going on and there were times that even Theo wasn’t sure exactly how to separate the good guys from the bad. I adored his parents and how supportive yet torn they were about the danger that Theo was in. That supportive relationship made parts of Tracker Hacker heartbreaking. And yeah, I was totally not expecting to get choked up reading an adventurous YA spy story, but there you go.
Schooled is next full length book in the Codename: Winger series, but A Very Winger Christmas is a short story that fits between the two. I might save that one till closer to the holidays, but I’m not planning on holding off on Schooled. Looks like I’m officially hooked! 😉
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Tracker Hacker. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m not sure what I expected from Tracker Hacker, but I’m pretty sure that I got a lot more than I bargained for.
Theo Reese isn’t your average sixteen year old, even if you don’t take into consideration his secret life. He’s a better than average hockey player as well as a computer whiz. He’s also a loyal boyfriend and friend, which makes keeping his secret life secret more than a little complicated. He hates keeping things from his boyfriend. It’s getting harder and harder because Eddie isn’t dumb and he knows that Theo is keeping secrets. He’s just hoping that Eddie trusts him enough to stick by him.
I loved the intrigue surrounding this story. There was a lot going on and there were times that even Theo wasn’t sure exactly how to separate the good guys from the bad. I adored his parents and how supportive yet torn they were about the danger that Theo was in. That supportive relationship made parts of Tracker Hacker heartbreaking. And yeah, I was totally not expecting to get choked up reading an adventurous YA spy story, but there you go.
Schooled is next full length book in the Codename: Winger series, but A Very Winger Christmas is a short story that fits between the two. I might save that one till closer to the holidays, but I’m not planning on holding off on Schooled. Looks like I’m officially hooked! 😉
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Tracker Hacker. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 26, 2017
An absolute winner
I am a HUGE fan of Jeff Adams because honestly what is better in life than guys, hockey and love. For this story he wove in a very original spy story. I felt it got a bit campy when they were in the evil Raven's lair but all in all I'm hoping for many sequels.
I am a HUGE fan of Jeff Adams because honestly what is better in life than guys, hockey and love. For this story he wove in a very original spy story. I felt it got a bit campy when they were in the evil Raven's lair but all in all I'm hoping for many sequels.
December 2, 2018
A truly fun read!
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