Stolen

Private investigator Riley Callen has both admirers and enemies. After solving Lena’s case, she rubs the FBI the wrong way and catches the attention of Hong Technology, a Chinese conglomerate operating in the US. While handling a kidnapping case, she learns an assassin is after her. To win the coming war, she must put her team in order and depend on her AI more than before. Paul Chandler’s Stolen: Riley Callen, Book Three, is a fast-paced, action-packed novel that begins strong and ends exactly as promised. It harnesses the power of AI (artificial intelligence) and exposes its dangers, especially when it falls into the hands of criminals. Though mostly told from Riley’s point of view, the focus often shifts to other characters. Set in America, Stolen interweaves technological advancements, trade, intellectual property, and police work. The beginning is well done. Lena introduces the readers to her troubled world, and Riley walks to her as a friend and protector. The middle doesn’t sag. Lots of actions here. Smarter are the assassin and Riley’s team. The battle of wits and of guns continues. The kidnappers ‘had grown accustomed to success and had no experience dealing with these failures.’ The AIs also engage each other, theirs a battle of supremacy. What’s more, the ending is great. Riley has on her plate the kidnap syndicate and her war with Hong Technology, and deals with all these cleanly. Still on why this book delivers, the dialogue and characterization are exemplarily done. When the characters are talking, it’s easy to visualize them, get into their psyche and see through their eyes. The characters themselves are incredibly good. Black Dragon isn’t just skilled in his trade alone. He negotiates for better pay, leaving the client with no option but to compromise. Riley’s AI knows its way around highly secured systems. Riley doesn’t work for pay, but to save lives and defeat the bad guys. Richter brothers also immerses the readers into a how a criminal's mind works. And regarding beauty, here’s one character’s opinion: “Being pretty is its own job, and there is nothing wrong with that.” In conclusion, Stolen is a must-read.

Paul Chandler, for the third installment in the Riley Callen series, develops a plot that is intriguing and captivating. Riley Callen is a private investigator who seeks justice through relentless pursuit. With a modern twist, artificial intelligence is integrated into the narrative, creating a beautiful blend and representation of today’s world. Ghost, Riley’s AI companion, adds depth to the narrative with its fast thought and protective stance. The character depth was well developed, mostly on the bad guys' side, as they lose their cool and start acting on false bravado. I found Chandler’s writing to be precise and descriptive. With skill and precision, he built a multidimensional world, integrating it into the narrative yet managing to make the narrative clear. The plot was well relayed, piquing my curiosity on the previous books, as this book can be read as a standalone. This fast-paced narrative holds readers in a chokehold with every event and its realism. He also shows how resources in the wrong hands may lead to destruction, confusion, and pain. The book also represents how bravery, courage, and resilience are quality attributes. With a strong female lead, I will biasedly say I loved this book. I highly recommend it to lovers of thrillers.

If you crave a thrilling ride that keeps your heart racing from start to finish, Stolen by Paul Chandler is a book you will not want to miss. From the very first chapter, this fast paced tech thriller pulls you into a high stakes world filled with deception and intrigue. At the center of the story is Riley Callen, a fearless private investigator who becomes embroiled in a gripping quest for justice. With her quick wit and relentless determination, Riley navigates a labyrinth of corporate greed and betrayal, always staying one step ahead. What sets Stolen apart is the fascinating partnership between Riley and Ghost, a powerful artificial intelligence. Ghost is not just a tool; she is a clever companion whose sharp insights and protective instincts add a thrilling dimension to their mission. As they delve deeper into the mystery, the tension mounts, and every page turn leaves you yearning to uncover what lies ahead. The portrayal of artificial intelligence in this story is refreshingly different, steering clear of the usual dystopian narrative. Instead, it explores the profound possibilities that arise when technology is used for good. Just when you think you have grasped the situation, the stakes escalate, revealing new layers of complexity that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Stolen promises clever twists and heart pounding excitement as hidden motives and dark secrets come to light. With compelling characters and a scenario that resonates with real world issues, this novel will make you reconsider your views on technology and justice. Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey every moment is steeped in suspense, and you will not be able to put it down until the very last page. I give it a five star rating.

Stolen by Paul Chandler follows a young and talented engineer named Lena Alton. Her life takes a new twist because she invents a strong electric vehicle battery. Not long afterward, her work is stolen by a dubious corporate takeover. Lena is now a hunted person, and she has to struggle to save her life and future. She then embarks on a mission of justice with the assistance of a bright, courageous investor known as Riley Callen. The author develops powerful and recognizable characters and a thrilling and never-ceasing plot. The rhythm remains constant, and action moments are interesting and tense. The plot is also realistic and up-to-date, as it is concerned with technology, innovation, and corporate greed. The font, font size, and design are clear and easy on the eye and assist the readers in having a smooth reading experience. There was nothing forced or dramatic in the story. Each event served some purpose. The description is sufficient to give the reader a clear picture of the scenes. The adopted point of view is consistent with the plot, and the readers have access to the thoughts and emotions of the characters. It is written in a clear and easy-to-understand language; hence, the book is appropriate for young adults and adult thriller enthusiasts. The ending is satisfying and ties up the conflict for good. The book will also be an exciting and satisfying read for readers who like smart female leads, high-stakes drama, and strong realism. I highly recommend it without reservations to readers of contemporary mystery and suspense.

Stolen by Paul Chandler revolves around Lena Alton, a smart and determined woman who invents a new long-range EV battery that has the potential of transforming the world. She is confident that her work will fetch her millions. But she is excluded after her company is sold to a Chinese group. As strangers start stalking her, she employs the services of Riley, a renowned private investigator, to assist her in finding out the truth and remaining alive. The author has created a clear and well-paced story. I never got confused at any point in the story. The tension is gradually increasing as each event leads to the other, which makes the book an interesting read. The style of writing is clear, and the use of everyday language makes it easy to read. The plot is clever without being complicated. The book is ideal for both young and adult readers who love intelligent mysteries and suspense thrillers with female protagonists. The emotional aspect of this story is also very touching. The struggle Lena goes through in order to defend what she created is a sign of strength and courage. Readers can feel her anger, fear, and even hope as they watch her struggle. The lesson to be learned in the story is that it is never easy to stand up and do the right thing, but it is always worth the effort. Stolen is a captivating story that demonstrates that even the greatest dangers can be countered by courage, honesty, and diligence. I highly recommend reading it.