Fatal Intrusion is a whirlwind of a read and the beginning of a great new series that I cant wait to follow.

The book is cleverly written and the twists and turns keep the lights on.

We meet Carmen Sanchez, Honeland Security and Jake Heron an IT specialist .

This pair have their own interesting history that adds to the suspense.

Bodies pile up as they investigate firstly why Carmen's sister was attacked and why the same man is killing randomly.

Or so it seems.

Jeffrey Deaver and Isabella Maldonado are a force to be reckoned with as they take the reader down a path full of twists, turns and red herrings.

The rest of the journey and its a nail biting one, I will leave to the reader.

Clear your schedule and settle in for an thrilling read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review Fatal Intrusion.

Having read and enjoyed books by both these authors - make that a bundle by Mr. Deaver, long a favorite of mine - you can only imagine my delight at getting my eyes on this one. That it's the first in a series only added to my excitement. Well, now that I've finished, I admit to being a little less excited - but looking forward to the next one nonetheless.

Most of the hitches in the gitalong, I think, come from simply trying to establish the backgrounds and personalities of the main characters - Homeland Security agent Carmen Sanchez and college professor and computer security expert extraordinaire Jacoby (Jake) Heron. They have a history of sorts, one that Sanchez, at least, isn't eager to reignite; for now, they're sort of in a hold-hands-to-keep-from-fighting relationship. But while they end up forging some semblance of cohesiveness, they never seemed to really "connect" with each other - nor, for that matter, with me; neither is someone with whom I'm eager to go share a beer (though I probably wouldn't turn down an offer from Jake if he asked).

While she's at work, Carmen receives a text that her mostly estranged sister, Selina, is the victim of an almost fatal knife attack. Because of the relationship, Carmen's boss, Eric Williamson, won't assign her to the case, so she asks for leave so she can investigate on her own. Although Selina can't identify her attacker, she did catch a glimpse of a unique tattoo; other clues, including another murder, lead to the suspicion that a dangerous serial killer is on the prowl. Because her department cronies are off-limits (and that Jake owes her a favor), Carmen reluctantly turns to him for help; they form a somewhat uneasy alliance with the common goal of catching a deadly but elusive killer.

In the mix are chapters from the killer's perspective, plenty of twists and a little too much in-depth descriptions of such things as roulette - actually, kind of interesting to me, though, so I won't complain much. The ending wrapped things up as well as brought fodder for the next installment, so I'm now looking forward to seeing how - or if - these two different personalities get it together when their new adventure begins (bring it on - I'm more than ready). Meantime, I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to get in on the action by way of a pre-release copy.

Glad to see Jeffrey Deaver creating a new series...appreciate this one on the left coast with two great characters.! As usual, a page turner but a fast read.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I liked the main characters and parts of it were very interesting and unique. But it also felt too long, sometimes way too technical and i felt frustrated reading it. Though it was written by a man and a woman, first time reading him, have read/liked others by her, it felt very much like a man had written it. Lots of action, feelings but in a more detached way. So.......... not sure

This book will appeal to some of my students, more of an action thriller with a lot of technical, computer information. So not for everyone but some will like, 3.5 rounded up for all the research involved

The perfect outcome when two outstanding solo authors come together is a perfect combination of the both of them. Fatal Intrusion is certainly the best possible outcome from Jeffrey Deaver and Isabella Maldonado. It has the amazing action and excellent female lead from Maldonado, and takes the depth of plot and twist of turns from Deaver. I love that it's already subtitles Sanchez & Heron #1, because that means there will be more, and I will ready and waiting to devour it.

Special Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for the digital ARC. This was given to me for an honest review.

This is the beginning of a new series featuring Homeland Security Investigator Sanchez and independent IT contractor Heron. The storyline involves a series of murders from an apparent serial killer, but it is not that at all. It is a fast paced and engaging read. Those who have enjoyed the novels of both of these authors will find this collaboration well worth the read.

I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Goodreads, Net Galley, Amazon, Facebook and my nonfiction book review blog.

"Fatal Intrusion" by Jeffery Deaver and Isabella Maldonado is a gripping thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The story follows Homeland Security agent Carmen Sanchez and private security expert Jake Heron as they race against time to stop a ruthless killer known as Spider. The dynamic between Sanchez, who plays by the rules, and Heron, who views rules as mere suggestions, adds depth and tension to the narrative.
What I found most captivating was how seamlessly Deaver and Maldonado's writing styles blended together. It's impossible to tell which author wrote which part, a testament to their combined brilliance. The suspense is palpable, with twists and turns that caught me completely off guard. Just when I thought I had figured it out, another twist would come and elevate the stakes even higher. This book is unexpectedly terrifying and thoroughly engaging, making it a must-read for thriller fans.

Very grateful to the publisher for this copy, opinions are my own

I normally like Jeffrey Deaver books, but was not a fan of this one. To me it was hard to follow and very disjointed. Carmen Sanchez is a Homeland Security agent who plays by the rules. But when her sister is attacked, she realizes she has to think differently to catch the killer.

Sanchez enlists the aid of Professor Jake Heron, a private security expert who owes her a favor and she’s cashing in. They team up to catch the assailant. All they have to go on is a distinctive tattoo. This is one of the worst books I have read by Deaver.

Carmen Sanchez is a tough Homeland Security agent who plays by the rules. But when her sister is attacked, revealing a connection to a series of murders across Southern California, she realizes a conventional investigation will not be enough to stop the ruthless perpetrator. With nowhere else to turn, Sanchez enlists the aid of Professor Jake Heron, a brilliant and quirky private security expert who, unlike Sanchez, believes rules are merely suggestions. The two have a troubled past, but he owes her a favor and she’s cashing in. They team up to catch the assailant, who, mystifyingly, has no discernible motive and fits no classic criminal profile. All they have to go on is a distinctive tattoo and a singular obsession that gives this chillingly efficient tactician his nickname: Spider. Over the next seventy-two hours, Sanchez and Heron find themselves in the midst of a lethal chess match with the killer as they race to stop the carnage. As the victims mount, so do the risks. Because this spider’s web of intrigue is more sinister—and goes far deeper—than anyone could possibly anticipate. This is a brilliant new series and I can’t wait for the next one in what I hope becomes a long running series.

This book is very easy to read, despite a somewhat complex plot, and the storytelling and the characters are excellent. The technology used is over the top, of course, but this is fiction.

The pacing of Fatal Intrusion is relentless, with each chapter raising the stakes higher. The authors expertly blend action with psychological insight, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Sanchez and Heron race against time to prevent further murders. The novel’s intricate plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, culminating in a climax that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.

In Fatal Intrusion, Deaver and Maldonado have crafted a thriller that is not only a gripping page-turner but also a study of character and morality. This book is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone looking for a story that combines intellect with adrenaline. With its intricate plotting, memorable characters, and high-stakes drama, this novel is poised to be a standout in the genre.

I really enjoyed the novel and loved all the twists and turns. Sanchez and Heron is a great duo and I can't wait to read more about them.

Fatal Intrusion introduces Carmen Sanchez and Jacoby ‘Jake’ Heron, who join forces to stop a serial killer in Southern California. When Homeland Security agent Carmen Sanchez's sister is viciously attacked, Carmen is determined to hunt down the perpetrator to keep her sister safe. Joining forces with cybersecurity expert Jack Heron, they must navigate a labyrinth of anonymity and threats . Their discovery leads from this single botched attempt to the trails of a serial killer.
While some plot points may strain credulity, it was a decent book read and I hope that the future book series will improve and beautiful better.
My thanks to NetGalley for providing an eARC for my unbiased review.

Two bestselling authors, Jeffery Deaver and Isabella Maldonado, team up for the first in a new series featuring two people with unusual hunting skills. But Carmen Sanchez and Professor Jake Heron also have an unpleasant history.

Carmen Sanchez is a former FBI agent who now works as a Homeland Security Agent as an investigator. Normally, she obeys every rule. But, that was before her younger sister, Selina, was attacked by a man bearing a spider tattoo. Carmen suspects the man has attacked before, but she has no position to take on the case by herself. Jake Heron owes her a favor, though.

Professor Jake Heron is a private security expert who uses his hacking skills to analyze weaknesses for companies. He also teaches about intrusion, how social media can be used to discover everything in a person’s background. And, Carmen’s case interests him because he’s looking for links to the attacker’s victims.

Selina’s attacker has killed before, but she skillfully managed to evade him. Now, the man who calls himself Spider has other targets. His biggest mistake was trying to take out Carmen’s sister, and setting a relentless hunter on his trail. But, what is Spider’s true game? Is he drawing Carmen and Jake into his web?

Deaver and Maldonado’s own skills and interests are on display in this new book featuring an unusual team. Deaver has demonstrated an interest in social media and the Internet and what can go wrong. Maldonado was the first Latina to attain the rank of captain in her police department, and retired as the Commander of Special Investigations and Forensics. Her law enforcement background is obvious in this novel.

But, just a warning. Someone has a great deal of interest in spiders. If serial killers and spider information are not your thing, you might want to avoid tangling with Fatal Intrusion.

This was a fast paced, ever changing thriller, that had me guessing the whole book.
When a "would-be" serial killer targets Agent Carmen Sanchez' sister, all bets are off. There is nothing she won't do to find him and be sure he doesn't come back to finish the job. But the investigation takes law enforcement ( and a tag along consultant) on a chase that no one expected with many twists and turns. I loved how all the pieces came together.
I recommend for those that enjoy a great plot with well developed characters . I am looking forward to the next book.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This book was another hit from the authors. Filled with mystery and suspense the book kept the reader wondering what was going to happen next. This is a book which I would recommend to others.

I wanted to love this bc I’m a big fan of JD but this one was way too busy. Too much story and too much description that made me not want to pick it back up. I might try the next in the series and see how it goes. Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for this copy for read and review

Thank you to NetGalley, Jeffrey Deaver, Isabella Maldonado, and Thomas & Mercer for an ARC copy of "Fatal Intrusion".

"Fatal Intrusion" is a pulse-pounding thriller that delivers suspense, action, and intrigue. Its intricate plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Homeland Security agent Carmen Sanchez, a tenacious investigator finds herself embroiled in a string of murders that hit close to home when her sister becomes a target. Determined to unravel the mystery behind these seemingly random killings, Sanchez teams up with the unconventional private security expert, Professor Jake Heron. Despite their troubled history, the duo must put aside their differences as they race against time to catch the elusive killer known only as Spider.

I highly recommend adding this book to your list of must-reads. I cannot wait to read their next book!

"Fatal Intrusion" by Jeffery Weaver and Isabella Maldonado is a gripping thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. When Homeland Security agent Carmen Sanchez's sister is attacked, revealing a connection to a series of murders across Southern California, she knows she needs to think outside the box to catch the killer.

Sanchez enlists the help of Professor Jake Heron, a private security expert with a brilliant mind and a disregard for rules. Despite their troubled past, the two form an unlikely partnership as they race against time to stop the ruthless perpetrator known as Spider.

Weaver and Maldonado's storytelling is top-notch, weaving a complex and suspenseful tale that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the dynamic between Sanchez and Heron adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story.

"Fatal Intrusion" is a must-read for fans of thrillers, delivering a thrilling ride that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.