Dead Watch

Book Description

Through twenty-one novels featuring Lucas Davenport, Kidd, or the razor-edge world of the Night Crew, John Sandford has been writing brilliantly suspenseful, consistently surprising thrillers filled with rich characters and exceptional drama.

But Dead Watch sets a whole new level.

Early morning, Virginia, and a woman is on the run. Her husband, a former U.S. Senator, has been missing for days. Kidnapped? Murdered? She doesn't know, but she thinks she knows who's involved, and why. And that she's next.

Hours later in Washington, D.C., a cell phone rings. The White House chief of staff needs Jacob Winter now. His chief investigator and an Army Intelligence veteran, Winter knows how to move quickly and decisively, but he's never faced a problem like this. The disappearances are bad, but when the blackened body shows up barbed-wired to a tree, Winter knows there is much worse to come. And soon enough, there is. Large forces are at work, determined to do whatever it takes to achieve their ends. Winter will have to use all his resources not only to prevail but also to survive. And so will the nation. . . .

Customer Reviews:

A Minor Effort from Sandford.......2007-08-25

I enjoy John Sandford's books a lot, especially his PREY series involving Lucas Davenport. DEAD WATCH is not a PREY novel, but is instead a standalone featuring a completely new cast of characters. It's a decent political thriller, but I think it pales in comparison to most of Sandford's other work.

I won't discuss the plot in depth, but DEAD WATCH involves the disappearance and apparent murder of an ex-Senator from Virginia. The main character of this novel is a Davenport-like character who "fixes" problems for the President. Most of this book details his investigation of the murder, and all the interesting twists and turns along the way.

The problem with DEAD WATCH is that the political plot is rather silly and unbelievable. Further, most of the supporting characters are very thin and have little personality. Although this novel is something of a mystery, nearly all of the mystery is pretty much resolved at the halfway point. The second half of the novel is mainly action, and involves little surprise or true suspense. I was bored by most of it, and found the ending of the story surprisingly lame and unsatisfying.

Sandford's a really good writer, and his prose is strong enough to make DEAD WATCH into a readable book. That being said, you can do much better than this novel, so I can only give it a tepid recommendation. My advice is to instead read the early PREY books if you have not done so.

A standalone novel by Sandford.......2007-08-12

In John Sandford's Dead Watch, the author takes a break from his Lucas Davenport and Kidd novels (as is obvious to Sandford fans because the title features neither the word "Prey" nor a Tarot reference) to tell a standalone story featuring a hero with a most unique profession. I've read or heard of mysteries with protagonists with almost every career - cop, reporter, sports agent, chef, rabbi, monk, psychologist, etc. - but Jacob Winter is the first hero I can think of who is a bureaucrat.

Sure, Winter may be an ex-soldier with some decent combat skills, but at heart, he merely works the political system and knows how to cut through red tape: he is not merely a bureaucrat but is the uber-bureaucrat, and all his skills will be required when ex-Senator Lincoln Bowe disappears. Suspicion immediately falls on The Watchmen, a citizen's group with some similarity to The Minutemen or Guardian Angels. They are the brainchild of Governor Arlo Goodman, and depending on who is describing them, the Watchmen are either Boy Scouts or Brownshirts. Bowe and Goodman are bitter political rivals and it is theorized that the Watchmen kidnapped Bowe.

Or is it all a ploy by Bowe's people to discredit Goodman? That is what Winter is tasked to find out by the President's Chief of Staff (who is in the same part as Goodman). Bowe's body is soon found, but the answer to his whereabouts only opens up new issues that Winter soon unearths. The apparent killer is missing; Bowe is revealed to have been a closeted gay man; and there are rumors of a "package" that can severely damage the President. Winter works all the angles even as he begins to become romantically entangled with Bowe's widow Madison, a woman with her own secrets.

Sandford is in top form with this novel. Dead Watch is suspenseful, well-plotted and a fast read. Winter may not be the most exciting hero, but he is likeable enough and that goes a long way. Whether you've read Sandford before or not, Dead Watch is worth reading if you enjoy political thrillers.

excrutiatingly boring.......2007-08-06

I was really disappointed in this book because I have been a loyal John Sandford reader since the first "Prey" book. During the best of the "Prey" years, I always looked forward eagerly to reading the new installments in the series. Recently even the Prey novels have been inconsistent, never matching up to the best, "Chosen Prey" and "Certain Prey", and reaching an all time low with "Easy Prey". However "Dead Watch" is the most boring John Sandford book I have ever read. After the first few chapters I lost interest--the entire story was wrapped up in the first half of the book. The rest of the book was just an exercise in drawing the story out to fit into the minimum required pages. I hope that with his next books, Mr. Sandford is back on track with interesting characters, dialogue and pacing.

Still a Sandford.......2007-07-30

Sandford says, and has characters say, that Washington insider Jake Winter is a whiz at bureaucratic detection and insight; uh, detecting bureaucratic crimes in direct and bloody fashion. Who's doing what to whom. Still, we're not really shown how, but left with Winter's unexplained intuition that looks an awful lot like the lucky guesses needed to get the writer out of a plot corner. There's a lot of intuition, pattern recognition, a great sensitivity to keeping his alternatives open, and thinking differently whenever one answer begins to look good to politicians, police, FBI, troopers, or media. Can't have anyone out-think Jake, reveling in his lack of committment. A few things are just too coincidentally convenient, but I've come to realize that that's the great failing of fiction: some way has to be found to reach a conclusion, to create a climax--otherwise it would be "just" life, wouldn't it? Here the way is just kinda obvious.

Overall this story is simple Sandford, lacking the delicious complexities and personalities of his Lucas Davenport novels, among my favorites in the genre. He doesn't develop his secondary characters, as we've come to know Davenport's associates in his Minnesota murder mystery series. Danzig and Novatny are fat people but pretty thin characters, just telephone workers without a life (why are eastern Europeans always depicted as such heavies?). Of course, they could have a chance to develop if this potboiler becomes a series opener, but I won't be too interested in more stories that just reflect the cynicism of too much media already.

There's a little bit to every reader's taste, but you won't have to slog past cliches. After bouncing off various girls, Jake is about to score, when action ratchets up as the nature of the conspiracy he's hunting comes into view. Soon a twist, due to his romantic-knight complex, sends him careering into greater danger yet. The detection here differs from Sandford's usual police procedures-and-one-insight. This makes for a fast read in airports, planes, and on beaches. Something else that makes this a pretty easy read is the large print and white space on the page in the paperback edition--not so long as it looks.

Dead Watch.......2007-06-27

This book is good but not up to the standards of the "Prey" series which I have read all of.

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DEAD WATCH
JOHN SANFORD
Manufacturer: G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0739469576

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LARGE PRINT

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Tony Coster
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ASIN: 1403333203

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Manufacturer: Crime Club / Doubleday
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Binding: Hardcover
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G.D.H. & M. Cole
Manufacturer: Collins' Clear-Type Press
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Dead Men's Watches (Hood, Hugh. New Age, Pt. 10.)

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Dead Men's Watches (Hood, Hugh. New Age, Pt. 10.)
Hugh Hood
Manufacturer: House Of Anansi
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Book Description

In this tenth book in Hugh Hood's highly acclaimed series, The New Age, two linked novellas explore the transforming powers of love. In the first novella Matthew Goderich discovers that his late Uncle Philip has had a secret and emotionally rewarding romantic life. In the second novella Matthew nurses his childhood friend, Adam, through a long, painful, and terminal AIDS-induced illness. Matthew, in the first novella, is the detached observer and dogged detective who comes to understand love; in the second, he finally becomes fully engaged with the emotion of loving as he rids himself of his homophobia and learns to appreciate and embrace Adam, his lifelong friend. Matthew's emotional awakening corresponds with society's growing awareness in the early 1980s of the nature and extent of the AIDS crisis. Dead Men's Watches continues Hugh Hood's vivid portrayal of Canadian social history and teaches us that the gift of love is all that matters in the end.

Dead Silence: The Legacy of Abuses in Punjab/1304

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Dead Silence: The Legacy of Abuses in Punjab/1304
Watch 1304 Asia , and Human Rights Watch Staff
Manufacturer: Human Rights Watch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Dead Watch
John Sanford
Manufacturer: Berkley Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000SE2R1I

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Dead Watch
John Sandford
Manufacturer: Berkley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000UUIFT8

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Dead Watch
John Sandford
Manufacturer: PENGUIN PUTNAM * TRADE
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000WTZJWI

Book Description

After years in Canada, Simon St. Bride is ready to return to England. But his plans are delayed by a duel and a young woman he feels honor-bound to marry, knowing that his family is unlikely to welcome her. For despite her beauty and seeming innocence, Jane Otterburn is hesitant to speak of her past. But when treachery strikes their world, Simon and Jane must fight side-by-side-and they discover a love beyond price and a passion beyond measure.

Customer Reviews:

Boring.......2006-11-30

This is by far the most boring Beverley book, although competing for the title with her next, "To Rescue a Rogue." The beginning is quite promising. But than the action just stalls. The love story is completely unconvincing and sorely lacking any tension. Throughout the book, Jane agonizes whether to tell Simon the secret we readers know. St. Bride is described as a wild character, with adventurous blood of his ancestor Ademar running through his veins. But he comes across as a wimp. Also, he marries the woman he barely knows when it is not quite clear that he is even attracted to her. To fulfil a dying friend's wish? Who on earth does that without an excellent reason, even in a romance novel? It is not so clear how this man obliged our hero. Then, after talking to his friend Hal, who really is in love, Simon decides that he too is "thunderstruck." It just doesn't fly. Apart from the somewhat interesting beginning -- very little is going on in the rest of the book. Just extremely boring conversations. Simon's cause -- fighting for the rights of Canadian Indians -- is entirely undeveloped. He just drops this idea to go home and "do his duty" to the family. In my opinion, reading an old Beverley book for the second or third time is time better spent.

The Rogue and the Gypsy.......2006-09-22

I've loved them all, even Nicholas, King Rogue, whose saga "An Arranged Marriage" is perhaps the most disturbing of all Beverley's Rogues. This time around, the protaganist is Simon St. Bride, who has been merely a reference in previous tales while off in the wilds of Canada. To fulfill his promise to a dying man, he marries Jane, who (we learn long before he does) is not at all what she seems. Of course, their marriage evolves into the real thing (this is, after all, a romance), but along the way the reader encounters intrigue, betrayal, lies, conceits, tangles, misunderstandings and cross-purposes--ah, the path to true love! One can begin the Company of Rogues series with this book, even though it is the second-to-last tale, because it is not directly connected to the European goings-on of the time, as the other books are. Nevertheless, I recommend beginning, as they say, at the beginning, with Beverley's "An Arranged Marriage" (a much darker tale) and moving forward from there. Still, although a bit richer when read in context, this novel stands alone quite well. As always, Beverley delivers a well-written, cleverly plotted, and sublimely romantic page-turner.

Prime Historical Read - 4-1/2*.......2006-08-27

Simon St. Bride had left home in 1812 to seek adventure landing in Canada to fight the Americans. An honorable and just man he came to admire the native people despising what he discovered was corruption in the Canadian government. As he prepared to return home with the proof he was forced into a duel to defend the honor of his good friend, Isaiah Trewitt's niece, Miss Jane Otterburn. The original duel was interrupted and Simon was coerced by a death bed promise to Isaiah to marry Jane. Initially he felt that her humble beginnings would be a blow to his family and he hadn't truly considered marriage feeling that when the time came he would be married for love.

Jane Otterburn had secretly admired Simon for some time but never dreamt that there could ever be a future for someone like her with him, nor in the present situation, did she want to appear to trap him. Jane knew she was totally unsuitable and held a terrible secret of her true heritage that could ruin any chances Simon had for a political future should it be revealed. Forced into marriage, they would eventually discover a rare and passionate love and a new enemy that threatened their newfound happiness.

*** Beverley continues to delight readers with tales of complex people caught up in romantic love stories and surrounded with adventuresome exploits and intrigue. While this had less intrigue than usual the romance was divine. Beverley slowly and with a deft hand unraveled the lead's uncertainties weaving them back into a stronger and tighter fabric in their resolve of loving and protecting one another. The author keeps the tension high with Jane/Jancy falling deeper and deeper in love with her new husband, knowing all the while that she really should leave him to find a more appropriate wife. Scared to death of what he would think of her with her Haskett background, even because of that background she was eventually able to save him from amputating his arm, he returned that love ten-fold in their deeply moving confessions. Bottom line is that this author continues to give thought provoking, appealing and well researched stories with intelligence, caring and of course, steamy romance. I've never been disappointed and know one can expect the best from this author who delivers in spades prime historical romance reads.

Marilyn Rondeau, RIO - Reviewers International Organization

doesn't add up.......2006-05-16

I have been a fan of Beverley for ages...but I couldn't finish this book.

What bothered me was a disconnect in the kind of relationship being portrayed and the way that Beverley wrote about it. Simon St. Bride and Jane Otterburn are forced to marry; they have had a cordial relationship but no more. Both appear to be pretty mature, self-controlled people; willing to make the best of their circumstances. The romance that follows is therefore, by necessity, of the slow but steady kind; they learn to trust one another, they learn to love one another. A lot of the bonding occurs, for example, while they are clearing out the house of Jane's deceased uncle, or suffering through a long sea voyage.

What really bugged me were the moments where really extreme, dramatic emotions were inserted into this fairly quiet plot - when Simon said something about a "thunderbolt" revealing his love for Jane I kind of gave up on the book. It is just not a thunderbolt. Really awkward insertions of sexual heat hit me the same way.

I didn't like Beverley's last book (Shattered Rose) either; I hope she isn't heading downhill.

Romance and Adventure.......2006-05-06

THE ROGUE'S RETURN by Jo Beverley
May 6, 2006

Amazon Rating: 4/5 Stars

THE ROGUE'S RETURN is part of the series of books by Jo Beverley, centering on a group of men who call themselves "The Rogues". In this novel, one of the last in the popular series, focuses on Simon St. Bride, a man who participates in a duel to defend the honor of his dear friend's niece, the mysterious Jane Otterburn. Unfortunately, Lancelot McArthur shoots Simon before the signal to commence, and injures Simon. Simon shoots Lancelot, as is his right and thus ends the duel, and Lancelot's life. Jane happened to be at the scene to tell the men that her uncle is in serious condition, having shot himself shortly before the start of the duel.

Simon goes with Jane to see to his friend, and hears Isaiah Trewitt's dying wishes. Jane and Simon are to wed per Isaiah's request, and because Simon will not dishonor his friend, he marries Jane, despite the fact that he does not love her. Jane is known to be somewhat eccentric, and doesn't fit the mold of the typical woman, wearing clothing that does not suit her, and prefers to be alone instead of socializing with others. Jane, however, has always had feelings for Simon, and cannot believe her good fortune.

Simon's injuries become worse, due to an infection, and Jane nurses him back to health. In the mean time, there is reason to believe that someone is trying to kill Simon, and it has to do with some papers he has hidden away, information that could bring trouble if they were ever revealed.

The ship they are to board to return to England, after the two of them had lived in Canada for several years, will depart before Simon will have fully recovered, but they board the ship anyway, and he finishes his recuperation on the ship. (Missing this boat would have meant waiting for months for the next one to arrive in Canada). Weeks of living on the ship finally wear Jane down, and she becomes ill. It is now Simon's turn to care for her.

Throughout their adventures, the two become acquainted with each other and fall in love. Jane, however, has many secrets that she is afraid will come out in the open, thus destroying what trust she has built up in her marriage. She does not want to lose him, but the probability of a future child motivates her to do what is right. She refuses to tie Simon to her because of a baby, knowing that once he finds out the truth about her, he will want nothing to do with her.

Having now read THE ROGUE'S RETURN, I will gladly read the other books in this series. It was an enjoyable historical romance, taking me to 1800's Canada and back to England. A lot of adventure, romance, and intriguing characters to keep any reader of historical romance interested.

Rogue'S Return (Harlequin Historicals, No 376)

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Cute and Easy Fast Read
The Rogue's Return
The Rogue's Return

Rogue'S Return (Harlequin Historicals, No 376)
Margaret Moore
Manufacturer: Harlequin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0373289766

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Cute and Easy Fast Read.......2004-03-10

This is a cute story with a happy ending. If you're looking for something quick and light, you'll enjoy this. Third in a series: 1-The Wastrel, 2-The Dark Duke, 3-The Rogue Returns.

The Rogue's Return.......2000-03-08

Love it. Love to read about about men in this time

The Rogue's Return.......2000-03-08

Love it. Love to read about about men in this time

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The Rogue's Return
Anita Mills
Manufacturer: Signet
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Marvel Comics Presents No 109
thanos part 2 of 4) ann nocenti(wolverine-typhoid's kiss part 1 of 8);gerry conway/eric fein(young gods-against a rogue god part 9 of 9);chris cooper(ghost rider/werewolf-return of the braineaters part 3 of 6);jim starlin(thanos-i
Manufacturer: marvel comics
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Binding: Comic

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Marvel Comics Presents No.107
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Manufacturer: marvel comics
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The Return of the Black Sheep (Rebels & Rogues) (Harlequin Temptation # 540) (Harlequin Temptation, No 540)

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From Back Cover

The Return of the Black Sheep (Rebels & Rogues) (Harlequin Temptation # 540) (Harlequin Temptation, No 540)
Patricia Ryan
Manufacturer: harlequin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 037325640X

Customer Reviews:

From Back Cover.......2005-10-17

Tucker Hale: Black Sheep. Bush pilot. Scarred--both inside and out. Never stays in one place too long.

Harley Sayers: Named after a motorcycle--the only unconventional thing about her. Sweet. Sexy. Vulnerable.

Returning home to make peace with the old man was a painful experience for Tucker. Especially when house- sitter Harley "welcomed" him, baseball bat in hand! They were forced to share the place until his absent father returned--which meant playing by Harley's rules. No smoking. Moderate exercise for his damaged leg. And no sleeping with the help...

But the rules didn't cover what would happen if Harley fell in love...

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Return of the Rogue
Donna Fletcher
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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RETURN OF THE ROGUES (A Marine Unit's Fight for Life & Freedom)

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RETURN OF THE ROGUES (A Marine Unit's Fight for Life & Freedom)
Ted R. Williams
Manufacturer: Author
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Binding: Hardcover
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The Rogue's Return
Jo Beverley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
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The Rogues Return [UNABRIDGED] (Audiobook)

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The Rogues Return [UNABRIDGED] (Audiobook)
Jo Beverley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD
ASIN: 1428113487

Product Description

The Rogues Return continues the popular Company of Rogues series by New York Times best-selling author Jo Beverley. Simon St. Bride has been in Canada fighting the War of 1812but the war is over now, and Simon is ready to come home. Before he leaves, however, Simon must defend a young womans honor. What does her past hide?

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