What do you think?
Rate this book
John Beckett #1
Darkness On The Edge Of Town
They thought John Beckett would be an easy target. They thought wrong.
Deep undercover as a ruthless crime lord’s right-hand man, secret service officer John Beckett’s mission suddenly takes a deadly turn. When a mysterious data leak puts his life on the line, he must make a choice that will change his life forever.
On the run and with danger tailing him, Beckett races against time to save his niece, Amber, from vicious kidnappers. But with deadly threats closing in, he comes to the startling revelation he can trust no one… not even his closest allies.
The streets of London become a battlefield as Beckett struggles to stay one step ahead of his enemies and protect Amber - all the while confronting the dark truth about The Consortium, a shadowy organisation that will stop at nothing to maintain its grip on power.
Can Beckett save Amber and bring down those intent on destroying him? Or will he become the ultimate pawn in their deadly game? Only one thing is certain… danger lurks in every shadow and time is not on Beckett's side.
Deep undercover as a ruthless crime lord’s right-hand man, secret service officer John Beckett’s mission suddenly takes a deadly turn. When a mysterious data leak puts his life on the line, he must make a choice that will change his life forever.
On the run and with danger tailing him, Beckett races against time to save his niece, Amber, from vicious kidnappers. But with deadly threats closing in, he comes to the startling revelation he can trust no one… not even his closest allies.
The streets of London become a battlefield as Beckett struggles to stay one step ahead of his enemies and protect Amber - all the while confronting the dark truth about The Consortium, a shadowy organisation that will stop at nothing to maintain its grip on power.
Can Beckett save Amber and bring down those intent on destroying him? Or will he become the ultimate pawn in their deadly game? Only one thing is certain… danger lurks in every shadow and time is not on Beckett's side.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2023
640 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Hattersley
30 books35 followersBe sure to follow me on BookBub for the latest on sales
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/matth...
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/matth...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 2, 2023
Well, this was an excellent introduction to this author for me. Darkness on the Edge of Town is one of those books that crosses many genres, it is a mix of crime, thriller, political thriller, gangland and fiction and is full of action and adventure.
When undercover agent John Beckett has his identity released he has to get out of danger quickly. He had been working for a gangland crime syndicate and was the number two for a London gang. Its leader Delaney will kill Beckett without a second thought. He also discovers that his past is also not as secure as it should be and that his niece is also in danger.
A race against time to find his niece, get her to safety and also discover where the leak came from, talk about being a fast-paced storyline or what!
Whenever I see mentions of the secret service I automatically associate it with political wrangling and double-crossing and this book certainly brings that into the mix. Quite who and why though are not so easy to work out, in fact, I didn't work it out. I had an idea but it was only the tip of a long list of "who it could be".
The character of Beckett is one that worked really well, a professional, cold, calculated and not averse to doing what is deemed necessary. There is however more to him than that but it doesn't come across immediately, there are glimpses of a conscience, but it is not until much later that we start to see who the man behind the cover story is. This means that the author has some interesting options that can be used in the books that will follow from this first book in the series.
Working out who Beckett can trust and who is trying to use him or kill him made for an interesting cat-and-mouse game. Keeping the story moving at a relentless pace made for great reading. There are several characters in this story but they are introduced in such a way as it made it easier to remember who was who and also how they operated.
This is an action-packed story that is full of red herrings, mysteries and chases. A matter of life and death and getting to the truth keep this story racing along and it is one that fans of crime, thriller and government agency stories will get on really well with. I am definitely looking forward to reading more in this series and I would definitely recommend this book.
When undercover agent John Beckett has his identity released he has to get out of danger quickly. He had been working for a gangland crime syndicate and was the number two for a London gang. Its leader Delaney will kill Beckett without a second thought. He also discovers that his past is also not as secure as it should be and that his niece is also in danger.
A race against time to find his niece, get her to safety and also discover where the leak came from, talk about being a fast-paced storyline or what!
Whenever I see mentions of the secret service I automatically associate it with political wrangling and double-crossing and this book certainly brings that into the mix. Quite who and why though are not so easy to work out, in fact, I didn't work it out. I had an idea but it was only the tip of a long list of "who it could be".
The character of Beckett is one that worked really well, a professional, cold, calculated and not averse to doing what is deemed necessary. There is however more to him than that but it doesn't come across immediately, there are glimpses of a conscience, but it is not until much later that we start to see who the man behind the cover story is. This means that the author has some interesting options that can be used in the books that will follow from this first book in the series.
Working out who Beckett can trust and who is trying to use him or kill him made for an interesting cat-and-mouse game. Keeping the story moving at a relentless pace made for great reading. There are several characters in this story but they are introduced in such a way as it made it easier to remember who was who and also how they operated.
This is an action-packed story that is full of red herrings, mysteries and chases. A matter of life and death and getting to the truth keep this story racing along and it is one that fans of crime, thriller and government agency stories will get on really well with. I am definitely looking forward to reading more in this series and I would definitely recommend this book.
August 10, 2023
This is the first book in the John Beckett series and is also a new author for me.
Beckett was working deep undercover as the right-hand man for a big gangland crime lord until a leak puts him at risk and on the run.
As his identity and past get revealed, this also puts his niece in danger and Beckett finds himself stuck in a race against time to save her from the evil kidnappers.
I'm not usually a big reader of gangland crime as I favour the more psychological thrillers - but oddly, I do watch a lot of this theme on TV and having just finished watching The Night Agent - this really gave me similar vibes and I loved it!
As expected with this genre, some of the events can feel a little unbelievable but that really doesn't stop it being exciting and a great high-octane read.
This totally hooked me in from the start and had me on the edge of my seat as every time Beckett cleared on obstacle, there was another danger just waiting to get him.
I really liked Beckett as a character and can definitely see myself coming back for the next installment. Even though he's nothing like anyone I've ever come across in real life, I found his so relatable and found that I wanted to know more about his story from the past which hopefully will be explored more in the next few books.
We are treated to some great twists within the plot and the fact that you could literally trust nobody made this one hard to put down.
I'm not sure why I don't pick up more of this genre as this book was just as thrilling as those series I watch - I'll definitely be keeping watch for the next book coming out and will let you know how the series pans out.
Beckett was working deep undercover as the right-hand man for a big gangland crime lord until a leak puts him at risk and on the run.
As his identity and past get revealed, this also puts his niece in danger and Beckett finds himself stuck in a race against time to save her from the evil kidnappers.
I'm not usually a big reader of gangland crime as I favour the more psychological thrillers - but oddly, I do watch a lot of this theme on TV and having just finished watching The Night Agent - this really gave me similar vibes and I loved it!
As expected with this genre, some of the events can feel a little unbelievable but that really doesn't stop it being exciting and a great high-octane read.
This totally hooked me in from the start and had me on the edge of my seat as every time Beckett cleared on obstacle, there was another danger just waiting to get him.
I really liked Beckett as a character and can definitely see myself coming back for the next installment. Even though he's nothing like anyone I've ever come across in real life, I found his so relatable and found that I wanted to know more about his story from the past which hopefully will be explored more in the next few books.
We are treated to some great twists within the plot and the fact that you could literally trust nobody made this one hard to put down.
I'm not sure why I don't pick up more of this genre as this book was just as thrilling as those series I watch - I'll definitely be keeping watch for the next book coming out and will let you know how the series pans out.
August 9, 2023
Working under cover for a Crime Lord as his second, John Beckett’s world is thrown into confusion when his cover is blown.
Having to find his niece, Amber, before the bad guys get to her first, Beckett has to be at least three steps ahead of the bad guys.
MI6 want him to hand himself in but can he trust anyone there? Someone wants him dead and he needs to stay alive to find out who.
This was one heck of an action packed story, it had me hooked from the start. It’s tense, dark and violent, I loved it! I had to remind myself to take breaths at times, I was so caught up in the intensity of the moment.
An excellent first book in a new series that I would highly recommend.
My thanks to the author and Zooloo’s Book Tours for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Having to find his niece, Amber, before the bad guys get to her first, Beckett has to be at least three steps ahead of the bad guys.
MI6 want him to hand himself in but can he trust anyone there? Someone wants him dead and he needs to stay alive to find out who.
This was one heck of an action packed story, it had me hooked from the start. It’s tense, dark and violent, I loved it! I had to remind myself to take breaths at times, I was so caught up in the intensity of the moment.
An excellent first book in a new series that I would highly recommend.
My thanks to the author and Zooloo’s Book Tours for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 12, 2023
This was an enjoyable read that was well written with a compelling storyline and well developed characters, some of which I really liked and hope to see back in other installments within the series.
I love a shady character and these characters are shady to say the least, it made for a great read that I found really hare to put down. There is also a great amount of twists and unpredictability which kept me wrongly guessing all the way through.
This isn't my usual genre, I haven't read many gangland thrillers but I decided to give it a ho and I am really glad that I did. It is also my first book by the author and it definitely won't be my last.
I love a shady character and these characters are shady to say the least, it made for a great read that I found really hare to put down. There is also a great amount of twists and unpredictability which kept me wrongly guessing all the way through.
This isn't my usual genre, I haven't read many gangland thrillers but I decided to give it a ho and I am really glad that I did. It is also my first book by the author and it definitely won't be my last.
August 19, 2023
Here’s my review of Darkness On The Edge Of Town
There’s been a leak. Some of operatives in deep undercover roles have been listed and an elite intelligence analyst intercepted the communication on the dark web pertaining to a potential data breach. We need to try and extract the operatives as soon as possible as it could jeopardise their security. We have a few overseas and know where they are but we have one in the UK but we have not had contact with him for a few months so have no idea where he is and there are no contact details.
Jacob Beaumont, their chief analyst at Nightingale House could vaguely remember that John Beckett had sent a text message into them earlier in the year, most of the time, messages and stuff were deleted on a daily basis but they could try a search and see if it’s been kept, so arranges for Ruth to do a search for it, going back approx eight months. They are lucky and come up with a number. Jacob sends a message, asking Beckett to get touch, asap. He tells no-one he has tried to contact John Beckett.
A few hours later, John returns to his flat and picks up his mobile. He checks the number which he recognises and then reads the message. He rings the number, after approx 2 rings Jacob Beaumont picks up and speaks to him, explaining that his cover could have been compromised but that it might not be safe to talk over the phone so they arrange to meet in their usual place in an hour. An hour later, John is getting impatient, it’s not like Jacob to be late and then he sees him approaching. Jacob tells John all he knows and advises John not to return to his flat as it might not be safe to even go back there. He tells him to keep in touch and he will do the same.
John goes back to his flat, he checks it out and all seems ok, until he reaches the front door and sees it has been kicked in. When he gets to his flat, he attacks the guy in the front room, almost killing him then the guy from the bedroom comes at him so he hits him too and he goes down. John quickly packs a bag, making sure he has the essentials and the address for his niece in Sevenoaks, he will need to collect her as they could be after her as well. Then he sets off.to
He arrives at Sevenoaks and uses the maps app on his phone to guide him to where his niece is living. It all seems quiet and there are lights still on in the house which makes him feel a bit better until he gets to the door and it’s unlocked. He finds Gareth and Carol dead in the front room so goes upstairs and there is no-one there. He takes in his niece's room, she has taken after her mum, following the artistry line and she is really good at it. He then feels the breeze coming into the room so checks the window and finds it wide open with an extension just below. There are two torches in the wood. He rushes outside with a knife in his hand, over the wall into the woodland and heads towards the first torchlight stealthy. He creeps up behind him, grabs him around the throat, then stabs him and then slashes his throat. Next, is the other torchlight bearer. So he moves onto him, creeping through the trees, until he stands on a branch underfoot, he stops. The guy turns around, calls something, then goes back to his searching. John starts creeping behind the guy until he is behind him then he uses the knife on him, killing him. He calls for Amber to come from where she is hiding, that she is safe, that he is her uncle. He hears movement in the bushes and she slowly appears. He told her she did well to get out of the house and to hide in the bushes. Then he receives a call from Rufus and he knows it was Rufus behind his flat and the goons attempting to get Amber, he would have to watch their backs.
Can they survive? Is there anyone they can trust? Where can they go?
This is a really interesting read and you are thrust into the action right from the start. I really enjoyed it, lots of action and lots of killing, very high octane. John Beckett certainly knew his skills and how to use them. This was a very intriguing plot and a terrific storyline which had so much going on and so many people involved, sometimes it was hard to remember who was who and what their job was but a gentle reminder was usually on hand. This involves government departments, MI5, MI6, CIA and a few other companies along with gangs as we are primarily looking at John Beckett in this book.
There’s been a leak. Some of operatives in deep undercover roles have been listed and an elite intelligence analyst intercepted the communication on the dark web pertaining to a potential data breach. We need to try and extract the operatives as soon as possible as it could jeopardise their security. We have a few overseas and know where they are but we have one in the UK but we have not had contact with him for a few months so have no idea where he is and there are no contact details.
Jacob Beaumont, their chief analyst at Nightingale House could vaguely remember that John Beckett had sent a text message into them earlier in the year, most of the time, messages and stuff were deleted on a daily basis but they could try a search and see if it’s been kept, so arranges for Ruth to do a search for it, going back approx eight months. They are lucky and come up with a number. Jacob sends a message, asking Beckett to get touch, asap. He tells no-one he has tried to contact John Beckett.
A few hours later, John returns to his flat and picks up his mobile. He checks the number which he recognises and then reads the message. He rings the number, after approx 2 rings Jacob Beaumont picks up and speaks to him, explaining that his cover could have been compromised but that it might not be safe to talk over the phone so they arrange to meet in their usual place in an hour. An hour later, John is getting impatient, it’s not like Jacob to be late and then he sees him approaching. Jacob tells John all he knows and advises John not to return to his flat as it might not be safe to even go back there. He tells him to keep in touch and he will do the same.
John goes back to his flat, he checks it out and all seems ok, until he reaches the front door and sees it has been kicked in. When he gets to his flat, he attacks the guy in the front room, almost killing him then the guy from the bedroom comes at him so he hits him too and he goes down. John quickly packs a bag, making sure he has the essentials and the address for his niece in Sevenoaks, he will need to collect her as they could be after her as well. Then he sets off.to
He arrives at Sevenoaks and uses the maps app on his phone to guide him to where his niece is living. It all seems quiet and there are lights still on in the house which makes him feel a bit better until he gets to the door and it’s unlocked. He finds Gareth and Carol dead in the front room so goes upstairs and there is no-one there. He takes in his niece's room, she has taken after her mum, following the artistry line and she is really good at it. He then feels the breeze coming into the room so checks the window and finds it wide open with an extension just below. There are two torches in the wood. He rushes outside with a knife in his hand, over the wall into the woodland and heads towards the first torchlight stealthy. He creeps up behind him, grabs him around the throat, then stabs him and then slashes his throat. Next, is the other torchlight bearer. So he moves onto him, creeping through the trees, until he stands on a branch underfoot, he stops. The guy turns around, calls something, then goes back to his searching. John starts creeping behind the guy until he is behind him then he uses the knife on him, killing him. He calls for Amber to come from where she is hiding, that she is safe, that he is her uncle. He hears movement in the bushes and she slowly appears. He told her she did well to get out of the house and to hide in the bushes. Then he receives a call from Rufus and he knows it was Rufus behind his flat and the goons attempting to get Amber, he would have to watch their backs.
Can they survive? Is there anyone they can trust? Where can they go?
This is a really interesting read and you are thrust into the action right from the start. I really enjoyed it, lots of action and lots of killing, very high octane. John Beckett certainly knew his skills and how to use them. This was a very intriguing plot and a terrific storyline which had so much going on and so many people involved, sometimes it was hard to remember who was who and what their job was but a gentle reminder was usually on hand. This involves government departments, MI5, MI6, CIA and a few other companies along with gangs as we are primarily looking at John Beckett in this book.
January 1, 2024
John Beckett Is A Man With Deep, Dark Secrets
Imagine being in a covert operation so long you begin to wonder if you will ever be who you were before. John Beckett is an S-Sigma member who has been undercover for over two years. His task was to infiltrate on crime syndicate operation to gather intel to bring it down. But he's learned more than what his mission asked. Which puts him in a perilous position after a list of agents in S-Sigma is released on the Dark Net.
But why the leak? What's the end game? Beckett knows his safety is soon to be compromised. His crime boss is linked to a much bigger entity than your average crime gang. And if he finds John is not a fellow thug, then the "good" relationship he has with his "boss", Delaney, will come come crashing down.
Meanwhile, back at mission HQ, there's unsettling developments that raise serious security questions, not just for Beckett, but for England and beyond. The force behind this is a group called The Consortium. Their goal is complete control of the British government, all under the guise of developing a system program using AI that can forecast, with great accuracy, nearly every problem that could arise. This device/ program and The Consortium are recruiting high-level officers in secure positions to advance their goals.
Meanwhile, Delaney has discovered that Beckett has a niece that he could exploit to capture John. This would allow Delaney to mitigate the threat to The Consortium. However, John is a highly trained, very efficient operative and he's not going to allow his niece to be used for ransom. We follow our intrepid Beckett as he uncovers, reveals, and dispatches his "enemy" combatants with ease while transporting his niece to ultimate safety. This harom carom thriller has so many twists and surprises that you might get dizzy just trying to keep yourself ahead of the story.
Imagine being in a covert operation so long you begin to wonder if you will ever be who you were before. John Beckett is an S-Sigma member who has been undercover for over two years. His task was to infiltrate on crime syndicate operation to gather intel to bring it down. But he's learned more than what his mission asked. Which puts him in a perilous position after a list of agents in S-Sigma is released on the Dark Net.
But why the leak? What's the end game? Beckett knows his safety is soon to be compromised. His crime boss is linked to a much bigger entity than your average crime gang. And if he finds John is not a fellow thug, then the "good" relationship he has with his "boss", Delaney, will come come crashing down.
Meanwhile, back at mission HQ, there's unsettling developments that raise serious security questions, not just for Beckett, but for England and beyond. The force behind this is a group called The Consortium. Their goal is complete control of the British government, all under the guise of developing a system program using AI that can forecast, with great accuracy, nearly every problem that could arise. This device/ program and The Consortium are recruiting high-level officers in secure positions to advance their goals.
Meanwhile, Delaney has discovered that Beckett has a niece that he could exploit to capture John. This would allow Delaney to mitigate the threat to The Consortium. However, John is a highly trained, very efficient operative and he's not going to allow his niece to be used for ransom. We follow our intrepid Beckett as he uncovers, reveals, and dispatches his "enemy" combatants with ease while transporting his niece to ultimate safety. This harom carom thriller has so many twists and surprises that you might get dizzy just trying to keep yourself ahead of the story.
August 29, 2025
Action from go to whoa! A great story with a bit of everything and a lot of action. It depicts a British Secret Service officer, John Beckett, working undercover, who has infiltrated the leading London underworld gang when he finds the gang are working as the sharp end of the sword of a mysterious entity known as The Consortium where failures are mercilessly dealt with.
When his identity is leaked to the gang, all hell breaks loose and the one and only link he has to his previous life, a niece from a deceased sister, is targeted by the gang in an attempt to get to him. The secretive agency he works for tries to get him to come in from the cold but he is desperate to protect his niece and there are numerous attackers to be dealt with. It seems there are other secretive agencies that also think he should be taken out, then in a last-ditch event, his bosses break ranks and come to his assistance.
It makes for an exciting read and leaves the reader keen to follow up with the next book in the series.
When his identity is leaked to the gang, all hell breaks loose and the one and only link he has to his previous life, a niece from a deceased sister, is targeted by the gang in an attempt to get to him. The secretive agency he works for tries to get him to come in from the cold but he is desperate to protect his niece and there are numerous attackers to be dealt with. It seems there are other secretive agencies that also think he should be taken out, then in a last-ditch event, his bosses break ranks and come to his assistance.
It makes for an exciting read and leaves the reader keen to follow up with the next book in the series.
August 7, 2023
John Beckett works under cover with a major crime lord until there is a data breach and then he is fighting for his life and trying to fight to keep his niece alive and safe too. Wow what a spectacular start of a new series! After the first few pages I thought that I wouldn't enjoy the book but I was so wrong as it very quickly became tense and highly addictive. I could feel the suspense building and it just keeps going so make sure you hold on tight because it is one hell of a ride. I didn't know who to trust and was suspicious of everyone even those who were trying to help Beckett. I read it on the edge of my seat and may have fell off with a few twists. A brilliant start to a series that I have high expectations for and will be highly anticipating the next book after reading this page turner.
August 7, 2023
This is such an action-packed thrilling read. If you are a fan of films like the Bourne series or reading Jack Reacher, then you will absolutely love this book. It takes you on an unbelievable journey, with twists and turns and danger round every bend.
Though he was undercover and a highly trained specialist, the author made sure that the main character, John, was ver relatable. This made the story so easy to connect with throughout.
I loved the pace of the story and how much it kept you on your toes, with each scare that was thrown at him and his niece. It was also great that not everything went perfectly, as that kept it true to real life.
The adventure was brilliant and the action exceptional. This was a really great read.
Though he was undercover and a highly trained specialist, the author made sure that the main character, John, was ver relatable. This made the story so easy to connect with throughout.
I loved the pace of the story and how much it kept you on your toes, with each scare that was thrown at him and his niece. It was also great that not everything went perfectly, as that kept it true to real life.
The adventure was brilliant and the action exceptional. This was a really great read.
August 5, 2023
Received an ARC from the author and the review I leave is both honest and voluntary.
This is the first book in a new series that features an ex soldier turned undercover operative John Beckett. If the first action packed instalment is anything to go by, this will be another excellent series penned by Matthew Hattersley.
Fast paced, it follows Beckett as he fights for his life when a security breach threatens to uncover his true identity. The body count starts to rise as he races to expose the truth of the secret organisation that endangers not only his existence but also that of a "secret" niece.
This is the first book in a new series that features an ex soldier turned undercover operative John Beckett. If the first action packed instalment is anything to go by, this will be another excellent series penned by Matthew Hattersley.
Fast paced, it follows Beckett as he fights for his life when a security breach threatens to uncover his true identity. The body count starts to rise as he races to expose the truth of the secret organisation that endangers not only his existence but also that of a "secret" niece.
August 17, 2023
Read this book if you love Stephen Leather, Simon Kernick and Lee Child
I love this book as I couldn't put it down as it was a real rollor coster ride of a read. Anyone who is a fan of Stephen Leather, Simon Kernick and Lee Child will not be disappointed as it's action from the first chapter pages til the end.
It's amazing read and well written so may I suggest that you isolated yourself somewhere quite not to be disturb as this also makes a great holiday read. Best wishes. Sean
I love this book as I couldn't put it down as it was a real rollor coster ride of a read. Anyone who is a fan of Stephen Leather, Simon Kernick and Lee Child will not be disappointed as it's action from the first chapter pages til the end.
It's amazing read and well written so may I suggest that you isolated yourself somewhere quite not to be disturb as this also makes a great holiday read. Best wishes. Sean
November 24, 2023
Darkness on the Edge of Town By Matthew Hattersley.
The John Beckett Series Book 1.
They thought John Beckett would be an easy target. They thought wrong. Deep undercover as a ruthless crime lord’s right-hand man, secret service officer John Beckett’s mission suddenly takes a deadly turn. When a mysterious data leak puts his life on the line, he must make a choice that will change his life forever.
I really enjoyed this book. Fast paced. I didlike John. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*.
The John Beckett Series Book 1.
They thought John Beckett would be an easy target. They thought wrong. Deep undercover as a ruthless crime lord’s right-hand man, secret service officer John Beckett’s mission suddenly takes a deadly turn. When a mysterious data leak puts his life on the line, he must make a choice that will change his life forever.
I really enjoyed this book. Fast paced. I didlike John. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*.
November 16, 2023
A excellent story The streets of London become a battlefield as Beckett struggles to stay one step ahead of his enemies and protect Amber his only serving family all the while confronting the dark truth about some of the people who he works for a shadowy organisation that will stop at nothing to maintain its grip on power. This book had me hooked from the first page. And was very hard to put down. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
July 30, 2024
Convoluted and drawn out
Just didn't hang together well. Very stop, start, with spies and policies all seeming to want to lead, with no one doing so
A home secretary that showed promise and failing to deliver and the main protagonist being someone who has the morals of a saint one minute and another those of a psychopath
Will give the next in the series a go, it deserves that and 3* is good enough for a light read
Just didn't hang together well. Very stop, start, with spies and policies all seeming to want to lead, with no one doing so
A home secretary that showed promise and failing to deliver and the main protagonist being someone who has the morals of a saint one minute and another those of a psychopath
Will give the next in the series a go, it deserves that and 3* is good enough for a light read
November 7, 2023
What a great start to, hopefully, a whole series. John Beckett is a very engaging character whom I hope we see a lot more of. The pace of this book is fast, the editing tight and suspenseful. The storyline flows, with excellent language and no grammatical errors, making it a really enjoyable read.
Matthew Hattersley books never disappoint.
Matthew Hattersley books never disappoint.
October 24, 2025
Great start to a cracking new series!
This was my first Matthew Hattersley book, and I really enjoyed the writing! Nathaniel Priestley expertly narrates this story and truly brings the characters to life, adding another level of depth to the experience. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author!
This was my first Matthew Hattersley book, and I really enjoyed the writing! Nathaniel Priestley expertly narrates this story and truly brings the characters to life, adding another level of depth to the experience. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author!
May 1, 2025
Not for me
I had hopes for this author when I read the line, great for david baldacci fans. It isn't. DB doesn't clutter his books with f bombs. I paged through this book to reach this review page. I won't read this author's books.
I had hopes for this author when I read the line, great for david baldacci fans. It isn't. DB doesn't clutter his books with f bombs. I paged through this book to reach this review page. I won't read this author's books.
May 13, 2025
Definitely want to read more of John Beckett's adventures. It was hard to tell who were the good guys and who were the bad guys at times, but I guess politics is like that. Rough and tumble, take no prisoners (literally), lots of twists and turns.
August 12, 2023
great character
First book in the series but a good read.
A man of darkness for so long that even his country tried to remove him.
On to number two.
First book in the series but a good read.
A man of darkness for so long that even his country tried to remove him.
On to number two.
September 18, 2023
I found this an easy "Jack Reacher" read without all the facts!. Well written, very few if any typos and grammar was excellent. Big schoolboy error in keeping an old phone after telling his niece to bin all her gadgets. Would recommend with the proviso not to get too excited!
December 2, 2024
action packed but…
The action requires you to believe that all the characters have the IQ of a turnip. Really, really dumb. The hero especially.
The action requires you to believe that all the characters have the IQ of a turnip. Really, really dumb. The hero especially.
Read
December 10, 2024John Beckett takes no prisoners.
December 16, 2024
Really good
Very enjoyable read. A story very well told and written. A fairly hard boiled tale with gritty characters that blend well together.
Very enjoyable read. A story very well told and written. A fairly hard boiled tale with gritty characters that blend well together.
December 22, 2024
Great Characters, great storytelling
It starts out a little slow as you get to know the characters and then it explodes into action and mystery.
It starts out a little slow as you get to know the characters and then it explodes into action and mystery.
April 15, 2025
Entertaining
This story was engaging and full of danger and excitement. It had great plot twists and turns that kept me enthralled to the end.
This story was engaging and full of danger and excitement. It had great plot twists and turns that kept me enthralled to the end.
June 19, 2025
Better than many
Worth checking out if you like clandestine service stories. This is a good first effort and the series may get better still.
Worth checking out if you like clandestine service stories. This is a good first effort and the series may get better still.
June 20, 2025
⭐️ 3.5/4 stars ⭐️
August 22, 2025
Good book with action and suspense. Audio narration was five star.
September 2, 2025
really exciting. loved every minute. im now going to start the 2nd in the series.
October 18, 2025
Very dark and chilling.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews