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Committed
Six days to stop a deadly attack. And no one else believes it's real.
Former CIA undercover operative Ellen McGinley is battling to overcome PTSD when she stumbles upon a domestic terror plot. The deadly attack is due to take place in six days and will strike at the very heart of her homeland.
For Ellen, it's a chance to find redemption for her greatest mistake - one she will never allow herself to forget.
But no sooner than she alerts the authorities, she finds herself diagnosed as delusional and locked in a psychiatric ward. No one believes her story.
She's the only one who thinks the danger is real, which means she's the only one who can stop it.
Ellen must draw on all her old skills to escape, stay alive, protect her family, and find those responsible - before all hell breaks loose.
Committed is the propulsive thriller you won't want to miss this summer. Perfect for fans of Lee Child, David Baldacci, JB Turner and Robert Dugoni.
Former CIA undercover operative Ellen McGinley is battling to overcome PTSD when she stumbles upon a domestic terror plot. The deadly attack is due to take place in six days and will strike at the very heart of her homeland.
For Ellen, it's a chance to find redemption for her greatest mistake - one she will never allow herself to forget.
But no sooner than she alerts the authorities, she finds herself diagnosed as delusional and locked in a psychiatric ward. No one believes her story.
She's the only one who thinks the danger is real, which means she's the only one who can stop it.
Ellen must draw on all her old skills to escape, stay alive, protect her family, and find those responsible - before all hell breaks loose.
Committed is the propulsive thriller you won't want to miss this summer. Perfect for fans of Lee Child, David Baldacci, JB Turner and Robert Dugoni.
400 pages, Paperback
Published July 9, 2024
2 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Chris Merritt
12 books181 followersHello! I'm a British author whose crime thrillers combine psychology, suspense, and characters you care about.
All my novels are set in London, where I live. My first trilogy starred Zac Boateng and Kat Jones, two detectives motivated by family, who tackle organised crime and police corruption. LAST WITNESS, the second Boateng and Jones book, reached #13 in the UK Kindle chart in 2019.
My second series features detective Dan Lockhart - an ex-soldier with a missing wife - and psychologist Dr Lexi Green, an American living in London. These novels are darker, more psychological serial-killer cases, with romantic relationships as a central theme.
I began writing fiction in 2014, after previous careers as a diplomat, based in Iraq and Jerusalem, and later as a psychologist working with victims and perpetrators of crime. I specialised in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which sparked my interest in telling stories about how people cope when faced with extreme adversity.
Now, I spend most of my time writing novels and drinking coffee while 'thinking' about writing novels. When I'm not writing, I love climbing and playing basketball.
All my novels are set in London, where I live. My first trilogy starred Zac Boateng and Kat Jones, two detectives motivated by family, who tackle organised crime and police corruption. LAST WITNESS, the second Boateng and Jones book, reached #13 in the UK Kindle chart in 2019.
My second series features detective Dan Lockhart - an ex-soldier with a missing wife - and psychologist Dr Lexi Green, an American living in London. These novels are darker, more psychological serial-killer cases, with romantic relationships as a central theme.
I began writing fiction in 2014, after previous careers as a diplomat, based in Iraq and Jerusalem, and later as a psychologist working with victims and perpetrators of crime. I specialised in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which sparked my interest in telling stories about how people cope when faced with extreme adversity.
Now, I spend most of my time writing novels and drinking coffee while 'thinking' about writing novels. When I'm not writing, I love climbing and playing basketball.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 17, 2023
“Committed” is one of the best action thrillers I have read in a very long time and one I’m not going to forget either. I absolutely devoured each page with fervour, it was addictive, engrossing, thrilling, tense and had the action speed of a non stop rollercoaster.
I’ve often said certain books would make a good movie BUT this one really would be epic! I enjoyed how the threads of the story flowed seamlessly and connected to the main plot perfectly. The descriptive narrative was utterly superb, so much so, that I could picture each scene as if I was watching it on the big screen and actually hear the live action taking place.
The only frustrating (but equally exciting) thing is the story continues into a second book after a major plot reveal, so I’m now chomping at the bit for the author, Chris Merritt to get writing, so I can satisfy my curiosity and be entertained once again. I do hope I don’t have to wait too long and in the meantime I’d recommend “Committed” to any and all thriller readers, you really don’t want to miss out on this blockbuster of a read and Chris, if you’re reading this, please get a move on! 😉
#Committed - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ plus!
I’ve often said certain books would make a good movie BUT this one really would be epic! I enjoyed how the threads of the story flowed seamlessly and connected to the main plot perfectly. The descriptive narrative was utterly superb, so much so, that I could picture each scene as if I was watching it on the big screen and actually hear the live action taking place.
The only frustrating (but equally exciting) thing is the story continues into a second book after a major plot reveal, so I’m now chomping at the bit for the author, Chris Merritt to get writing, so I can satisfy my curiosity and be entertained once again. I do hope I don’t have to wait too long and in the meantime I’d recommend “Committed” to any and all thriller readers, you really don’t want to miss out on this blockbuster of a read and Chris, if you’re reading this, please get a move on! 😉
#Committed - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ plus!
October 1, 2023
Can I give this more than 5 stars? This was soooo good! If you enjoyed watching Homeland, you will LOVE this.
Gritty, gripping and absolutely unputdownable, I devoured this book in two sittings. I felt like I was watching it, not reading it. The characters were believable and my adrenaline was racing during this action packed thriller that follows ex CIA agent, Ellen, in her attempts to stop a terrorist attack.
I’ve not read a Chris Merritt book before but I will 100% be reading another one.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Headline for my advanced copy.
Gritty, gripping and absolutely unputdownable, I devoured this book in two sittings. I felt like I was watching it, not reading it. The characters were believable and my adrenaline was racing during this action packed thriller that follows ex CIA agent, Ellen, in her attempts to stop a terrorist attack.
I’ve not read a Chris Merritt book before but I will 100% be reading another one.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Headline for my advanced copy.
October 10, 2023
This is the first of Chris’s books I have read and wow, what a fast paced and totally gripping thriller!
The author has been a psychologist specialising in PTSD, and his expert knowledge was put to very good use. I found it interesting to read about coping mechanisms.
Ellen is ex-CIA. She is strong and fearless and a believable character who I enjoyed getting to know. After blaming herself for failing to prevent a terror attack some years ago, she will absolutely stop the one she has just overheard being planned. The thing is, no one will believe her.
She is put into a psych unit to stop her, but this woman is unstoppable! I like the way the author makes her very human by mentioning her trying to hold back tears on a number of occasions, and how being a mum and keeping her young son safe is more important to her than anything else.
I was annoyed at her husband who didn’t seem to be giving her as much support as he should, but she was such a strong character she just got on with it.
With her CIA training she manages to foil a number of attempts on her life, and I enjoyed reading how she had been trained to act in various situations. She makes a taser from everyday objects (who would think a disposable camera could be so useful?).
As well as Ellen, we also hear from Peter, or Pee Wee as he is called, the others tending to think he is weak. But he has a conscience and doesn’t want to go through with the attack. Can he stop what is already planned?
Really well written characters who jumped off the page. Couldn’t put it down!
The author has been a psychologist specialising in PTSD, and his expert knowledge was put to very good use. I found it interesting to read about coping mechanisms.
Ellen is ex-CIA. She is strong and fearless and a believable character who I enjoyed getting to know. After blaming herself for failing to prevent a terror attack some years ago, she will absolutely stop the one she has just overheard being planned. The thing is, no one will believe her.
She is put into a psych unit to stop her, but this woman is unstoppable! I like the way the author makes her very human by mentioning her trying to hold back tears on a number of occasions, and how being a mum and keeping her young son safe is more important to her than anything else.
I was annoyed at her husband who didn’t seem to be giving her as much support as he should, but she was such a strong character she just got on with it.
With her CIA training she manages to foil a number of attempts on her life, and I enjoyed reading how she had been trained to act in various situations. She makes a taser from everyday objects (who would think a disposable camera could be so useful?).
As well as Ellen, we also hear from Peter, or Pee Wee as he is called, the others tending to think he is weak. But he has a conscience and doesn’t want to go through with the attack. Can he stop what is already planned?
Really well written characters who jumped off the page. Couldn’t put it down!
July 3, 2023
I have always enjoyed this author’s books very much and I was over the moon when he asked me if I wanted to read his new one.
I was expecting a psychological thriller taking place in London, but it seems the author has turned a corner. He takes his readers to America and treats them to an action movie. I say movie because that’s how I experienced it. It was like watching a film and not reading a book.
The author introduces us to Ellen McGinley and she is like James Bond combined with MacGyver in a female version.
I also appreciate the author taking the time to do research into American habits and laws and teaches us a trick or two so we can unleash our inner MacGyver too if we want to. 🙂
The threat Ellen was up against felt very real, but the story was over the top. So much so that you realise it was deliberate which makes it a very engaging and enjoyable read.
I felt every emotion the characters went through and when you can say this as a reader, I guess the author can wholeheartedly say: mission accomplished.
I have to say I had an inkling about the identity of one of the baddies behind the scenes, but I had to wait until the last page until it was confirmed. I wonder what Ellen is going to do with that information in the next installment. If that one is as good as this one, we will be in for another incredible story.
Do I still have to spell it out after this review? I suppose not, but I am going to do it anyway. I loved, loved, loved it and Ellen is an amazing character. 5 stars
Thank you
I was expecting a psychological thriller taking place in London, but it seems the author has turned a corner. He takes his readers to America and treats them to an action movie. I say movie because that’s how I experienced it. It was like watching a film and not reading a book.
The author introduces us to Ellen McGinley and she is like James Bond combined with MacGyver in a female version.
I also appreciate the author taking the time to do research into American habits and laws and teaches us a trick or two so we can unleash our inner MacGyver too if we want to. 🙂
The threat Ellen was up against felt very real, but the story was over the top. So much so that you realise it was deliberate which makes it a very engaging and enjoyable read.
I felt every emotion the characters went through and when you can say this as a reader, I guess the author can wholeheartedly say: mission accomplished.
I have to say I had an inkling about the identity of one of the baddies behind the scenes, but I had to wait until the last page until it was confirmed. I wonder what Ellen is going to do with that information in the next installment. If that one is as good as this one, we will be in for another incredible story.
Do I still have to spell it out after this review? I suppose not, but I am going to do it anyway. I loved, loved, loved it and Ellen is an amazing character. 5 stars
Thank you
August 28, 2025
A really gripping thriller that had be gripped from the first page to the last ! A great read that was left on a cliffhanger, recommend
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
August 2, 2023
The blistering plotline takes off right from the first page and doesn’t let up. Ellen is smart and sassy, and you spend the whole novel routing for her to make it and foil the terrorists without getting killed – there are moments when you just don’t know which way it’s going to go or how she is possibly going to escape the situation she finds herself trapped in.
The idea that you can be locked up and drugged against your will for your own safety is terrifying. Add that to the knowledge that something horrific is going to happen and no one believes you, and so only you can stop it, and you genuinely are gripped by this book and held permanently on the edge of your seat to the last page. Just when you think things can’t get any more tense, they do. It’s pacey, twisty, and very clever.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I gave it 5 stars and highly recommend it as your next read!
The idea that you can be locked up and drugged against your will for your own safety is terrifying. Add that to the knowledge that something horrific is going to happen and no one believes you, and so only you can stop it, and you genuinely are gripped by this book and held permanently on the edge of your seat to the last page. Just when you think things can’t get any more tense, they do. It’s pacey, twisty, and very clever.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I gave it 5 stars and highly recommend it as your next read!
August 6, 2023
I listened to this book with work and it is really good 99% of the way through.
Merritt does so much so well. The protagonist is plausible, she gets in scrapes but succeeds in a realistic way. She's not Kung Fuing her way past 6 King Kongs, or showing a 6th sense. The antagonists are all interesting and have motivation for what they are doing.
It keeps you gripped.
However, the twist at the end massively cheapens all that Merritt has achieved. It makes you feel as if it is a tiny world, it's not as realistic as the rest of the book and just feels tawdry and almost as if he felt obligated to chuck it in. It would have been much braver to have left it as an unresolved loose end.
Merritt does so much so well. The protagonist is plausible, she gets in scrapes but succeeds in a realistic way. She's not Kung Fuing her way past 6 King Kongs, or showing a 6th sense. The antagonists are all interesting and have motivation for what they are doing.
It keeps you gripped.
However, the twist at the end massively cheapens all that Merritt has achieved. It makes you feel as if it is a tiny world, it's not as realistic as the rest of the book and just feels tawdry and almost as if he felt obligated to chuck it in. It would have been much braver to have left it as an unresolved loose end.
November 7, 2023
My Rating ~ 4.5*
‘Her heart rate has already rocketed. Her palms are sweaty. It’s the familiar anticipation of having to act on those instincts she’s learnt to trust. Learnt the hard way’
Committed by Chris Merritt published August 1st with Wildfire and is described as a ‘propulsive thriller you won’t want to miss.'
Ellen McGinley is a former undercover CIA operative living in Pennsylvania. Now married, she lives with her husband, Harry, a local congressman and politician, and her young son, Josh. On a recent trip to Washington for a fundraiser with Harry, Ellen overhears a conversation that leaves her very concerned. Ellen is currently in recovery, in a battle to overcome PTSD, following on from a terrorist attack in Paris. She knows, from what little she heard at that Washington fundraiser, that there was mention of a possible domestic terror attack.
A week later, on her way to meet a contact, a professor who is an expert on domestic terrorism, Ellen is convinced she is being followed. Her paranoia becomes a reality when she finds herself face-to-face with a Sig Sauer pistol and her survival instincts kick in. But instead of being crowned a hero, Ellen is taken to a police station and from there to a psychiatric facility, where she is committed. No one takes her warnings seriously, with the medical personnel diagnosing her as delusional as a result of her PTSD. But Ellen knows what she heard and she also knows that time is critical.
Using her CIA training, Ellen must find a way out of this institution but, with no one on her side, the obstacles look insurmountable. Ellen has flashbacks of those traumatic days in Paris and these memories provide her with the strength to keep moving forward. She must escape. She must stop this potential threat. She is the only one who can stop the carnage.
In Committed, Chris Merritt has created a fabulous kick-ass and feisty heroine. Ellen McGinley is tough and determined. With the lives of so many at risk, Ellen knows that her life is nothing compared to those that could be destroyed if this threat to national security becomes a reality. Ellen has no time for fear. She uses all her wits and her operative training to go after those responsible.
Ellen must compartmentalise her personal life and dig deep to face her nemesis. When she does finally discover what the intention of this domestic terrorist cell is, Ellen is frightened but even more determined not to fail. To lose is not a luxury she has.
Jack Reacher, Ethan Hunt, Jason Bourne and Jack Ryan all come to mind in this fast-paced and highly entertaining thriller, but with one major difference, Committed features a fabulously tenacious female protagonist. If you loved Steph Broadribb’s Lori Anderson series then this book is definitely for you.
‘The wound itself is about an inch and a half wide with a thick clot of blood across it. It’s a clean cut, and not deep, but too big to leave untreated. She runs an antiseptic wipe over it, wincing at the sting. Then she prepares the needle and thread. Psyches herself up.’
A race against time always makes for an intense page-turner and Chris Merritt has deftly applied this technique throughout leading to a seriously intense and engaging experience. A relentless, rapid, rollercoaster of a read, Committed is a highly enjoyable action-filled conspiracy thriller and one I most definitely recommend. I’m going to hazard a guess that this isn’t the end of Ellen McGinley, but we will have to wait and see!
‘Her heart rate has already rocketed. Her palms are sweaty. It’s the familiar anticipation of having to act on those instincts she’s learnt to trust. Learnt the hard way’
Committed by Chris Merritt published August 1st with Wildfire and is described as a ‘propulsive thriller you won’t want to miss.'
Ellen McGinley is a former undercover CIA operative living in Pennsylvania. Now married, she lives with her husband, Harry, a local congressman and politician, and her young son, Josh. On a recent trip to Washington for a fundraiser with Harry, Ellen overhears a conversation that leaves her very concerned. Ellen is currently in recovery, in a battle to overcome PTSD, following on from a terrorist attack in Paris. She knows, from what little she heard at that Washington fundraiser, that there was mention of a possible domestic terror attack.
A week later, on her way to meet a contact, a professor who is an expert on domestic terrorism, Ellen is convinced she is being followed. Her paranoia becomes a reality when she finds herself face-to-face with a Sig Sauer pistol and her survival instincts kick in. But instead of being crowned a hero, Ellen is taken to a police station and from there to a psychiatric facility, where she is committed. No one takes her warnings seriously, with the medical personnel diagnosing her as delusional as a result of her PTSD. But Ellen knows what she heard and she also knows that time is critical.
Using her CIA training, Ellen must find a way out of this institution but, with no one on her side, the obstacles look insurmountable. Ellen has flashbacks of those traumatic days in Paris and these memories provide her with the strength to keep moving forward. She must escape. She must stop this potential threat. She is the only one who can stop the carnage.
In Committed, Chris Merritt has created a fabulous kick-ass and feisty heroine. Ellen McGinley is tough and determined. With the lives of so many at risk, Ellen knows that her life is nothing compared to those that could be destroyed if this threat to national security becomes a reality. Ellen has no time for fear. She uses all her wits and her operative training to go after those responsible.
Ellen must compartmentalise her personal life and dig deep to face her nemesis. When she does finally discover what the intention of this domestic terrorist cell is, Ellen is frightened but even more determined not to fail. To lose is not a luxury she has.
Jack Reacher, Ethan Hunt, Jason Bourne and Jack Ryan all come to mind in this fast-paced and highly entertaining thriller, but with one major difference, Committed features a fabulously tenacious female protagonist. If you loved Steph Broadribb’s Lori Anderson series then this book is definitely for you.
‘The wound itself is about an inch and a half wide with a thick clot of blood across it. It’s a clean cut, and not deep, but too big to leave untreated. She runs an antiseptic wipe over it, wincing at the sting. Then she prepares the needle and thread. Psyches herself up.’
A race against time always makes for an intense page-turner and Chris Merritt has deftly applied this technique throughout leading to a seriously intense and engaging experience. A relentless, rapid, rollercoaster of a read, Committed is a highly enjoyable action-filled conspiracy thriller and one I most definitely recommend. I’m going to hazard a guess that this isn’t the end of Ellen McGinley, but we will have to wait and see!
July 29, 2023
This is the first book of Chris's I've read, and was nothing like I was expecting! That's in a good way.
Chris has taken us to America, where Ellen has left her previous job fighting terrorism to settle down with her little boy.
That is until she hears a conversation about a plot to light up the sky on the 4th July. The trouble is no one believes her, and to try and keep her quiet she's committed to a secure forensic psychiatric hospital. There she's treated horrifically by the psycho Dr Ratkova.
The story follows Ellen through her bid to try and escape the mental hospital and then trying to uncover the terrorist plot on her own. Its also told from the point of view of 'Pee-Wee' Peter. The younger brother of the gang leader. Possibly my favourite character. I could feel his frustration, his feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Constantly being told he's not good enough.
I loved Ellen, and was completely rooting for her throughout. She's very moral and tries her hardest to do things with the least damage, whilst carrying intense guilt for an earlier plot she failed to stop.
This was a brilliant, at times breathtaking read. Really brilliantly developed characters and impossible to put down.
Chris has taken us to America, where Ellen has left her previous job fighting terrorism to settle down with her little boy.
That is until she hears a conversation about a plot to light up the sky on the 4th July. The trouble is no one believes her, and to try and keep her quiet she's committed to a secure forensic psychiatric hospital. There she's treated horrifically by the psycho Dr Ratkova.
The story follows Ellen through her bid to try and escape the mental hospital and then trying to uncover the terrorist plot on her own. Its also told from the point of view of 'Pee-Wee' Peter. The younger brother of the gang leader. Possibly my favourite character. I could feel his frustration, his feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Constantly being told he's not good enough.
I loved Ellen, and was completely rooting for her throughout. She's very moral and tries her hardest to do things with the least damage, whilst carrying intense guilt for an earlier plot she failed to stop.
This was a brilliant, at times breathtaking read. Really brilliantly developed characters and impossible to put down.
October 12, 2023
This is a great action thriller.
Ellen overhears a conversation in a hotel about a terror attack but she doesn’t know where it’s going to happen, just that something is being planned.
When she confronts a man who is following her, she’s arrested for firing a gun. When she tries to explain her suspicions to the Police, they don’t believe her.
When she tells them she’s ex CIA they look into but Dan find no trace of her.
Due to her past she’s suffering from PTSD and soon the Police take her to a mental hospital as they think she’s delusional.
Things go from bad to worse for Ellen until a psychologist believes in her.
Ellen knows she needs to escape but how will she stop the terror attack if the Police don’t believe her?
This is a fast paced thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Headline and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Ellen overhears a conversation in a hotel about a terror attack but she doesn’t know where it’s going to happen, just that something is being planned.
When she confronts a man who is following her, she’s arrested for firing a gun. When she tries to explain her suspicions to the Police, they don’t believe her.
When she tells them she’s ex CIA they look into but Dan find no trace of her.
Due to her past she’s suffering from PTSD and soon the Police take her to a mental hospital as they think she’s delusional.
Things go from bad to worse for Ellen until a psychologist believes in her.
Ellen knows she needs to escape but how will she stop the terror attack if the Police don’t believe her?
This is a fast paced thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Headline and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 8, 2023
This is a gripping, enthralling and exciting read by the excellent Chris Merritt. I was interested to see what this new direction would look like, having enjoyed his London-based novels, and the answer is that America is just as vividly portrayed. When Ellen McGinley overhears a conversation about an imminent attack, she is determined to thwart it, using all the know-how acquired in the CIA. But she is thwarted at every turn. The tension is unrelenting in this authentic page-turner.
October 7, 2023
This is the first time I have read a book by this author and what better way to start than with the first book in a new series? Ellen McGinley is a mother and wife, she suffers from PTSD and is on high alert when she thinks she is being followed. She did work for the CIA as an undercover agent in Paris, it is this period that has resulted in her being diagnosed with PTSD.
The story is broken down into the present and the past, the past is Ellen's time with the CIA and the events gradually unfold over the course of the book. The present is one that has Ellen in danger but from whom and why she is not entirely sure. She is arrested and questioned and her story about being an ex-CIA agent is not believed. She is given a psych evaluation and held in a clinic.
This is set in the US and it is an action-packed story from start to finish. The author has cleverly created a character in Ellen that makes her look vulnerable and this adds to the disbelief that she is delusional and not quite living in the real world. I do like Ellen, she is a real firecracker and the way she is put into situations and the way her story is pulled apart by others makes this addictive reading. I did wonder if she was for real and again this is down to the author and his clever plot lines.
Having a stay-at-home mum as a key character worked so well, but given that she has had other training, there is more to her than you realise. The fact that she has no one she can really turn to for help, means she is on her own.
I liked how the author switched between past and present and gradually built up more to Ellen's character, filling in blanks and also showing a systemic failing that seems to be following her from authorities.
I am a big fan of thrillers that involve government agencies, in my eyes they are always the bad guys but this one was not as clear cut as that. There are some unknown players in the background and there are strings being pulled but why and for what ends is not obvious. The strings for this story though could be catastrophic putting lives in danger and having repercussions that would spread further afield.
If you are a fan of fast-past, action-packed thrillers then this is a fabulous book. It soon became obvious to me that as I started this I would not put it down and read it in one sitting. For my first time reading anything by this author, I have to say this was great. I am looking forward to seeing more in this series as there was a bombshell dropped at the end! Brilliant story, a great character and one I would definitely recommend.
The story is broken down into the present and the past, the past is Ellen's time with the CIA and the events gradually unfold over the course of the book. The present is one that has Ellen in danger but from whom and why she is not entirely sure. She is arrested and questioned and her story about being an ex-CIA agent is not believed. She is given a psych evaluation and held in a clinic.
This is set in the US and it is an action-packed story from start to finish. The author has cleverly created a character in Ellen that makes her look vulnerable and this adds to the disbelief that she is delusional and not quite living in the real world. I do like Ellen, she is a real firecracker and the way she is put into situations and the way her story is pulled apart by others makes this addictive reading. I did wonder if she was for real and again this is down to the author and his clever plot lines.
Having a stay-at-home mum as a key character worked so well, but given that she has had other training, there is more to her than you realise. The fact that she has no one she can really turn to for help, means she is on her own.
I liked how the author switched between past and present and gradually built up more to Ellen's character, filling in blanks and also showing a systemic failing that seems to be following her from authorities.
I am a big fan of thrillers that involve government agencies, in my eyes they are always the bad guys but this one was not as clear cut as that. There are some unknown players in the background and there are strings being pulled but why and for what ends is not obvious. The strings for this story though could be catastrophic putting lives in danger and having repercussions that would spread further afield.
If you are a fan of fast-past, action-packed thrillers then this is a fabulous book. It soon became obvious to me that as I started this I would not put it down and read it in one sitting. For my first time reading anything by this author, I have to say this was great. I am looking forward to seeing more in this series as there was a bombshell dropped at the end! Brilliant story, a great character and one I would definitely recommend.
July 15, 2023
Having enjoyed other books by the author, I was very much looking forward to his latest offering and I am delighted to say that it didn’t disappoint.
We meet Ellen who previously worked for the CIA but after a major incident left her with PTSD, has been focusing on being a mom to her six year old son, Josh. Unfortunately for her, she puts herself at risk when she over hears a conversation she shouldn’t have and someone wants to keep her quiet.
When she finds herself locked up in a psychiatric ward, wow, my heart was racing. You would think being in a secure unit she would be safe but danger is lurking around every corner and my heart was in my mouth as to whether she would make it out of there alive. If anything there are a lot of thrills throughout this story as there is a lot of action and in a lot of ways I really admired Ellen.
This is one of those stories that you don’t know who is trustworthy. All the odds are against Ellen and she can’t trust or rely on anyone to help her out of the situation she has found herself in. I don’t think I could think of anything worse than no one believing you where the implications of not being taken seriously could have an astronomic affect on a lot of people. It is a huge burden to carry.
Committed is a fast-paced, adrenaline fuelled read that had me on the edge of my seat. It is definitely worthy of being on the big screen. I think I read most of it with my mouth wide open and I kept forgetting to breath as the pacing was full on, not dropping for a second. With how the story ends, I am really hoping there is more to come as I would love to see more of Ellen who is strong willed and whilst hardened in some ways, was full of empathy also. This is a brilliant novel and a must read for thriller fans who love lots of action with a strong and believable storyline.
My thanks to Wildflower Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
We meet Ellen who previously worked for the CIA but after a major incident left her with PTSD, has been focusing on being a mom to her six year old son, Josh. Unfortunately for her, she puts herself at risk when she over hears a conversation she shouldn’t have and someone wants to keep her quiet.
When she finds herself locked up in a psychiatric ward, wow, my heart was racing. You would think being in a secure unit she would be safe but danger is lurking around every corner and my heart was in my mouth as to whether she would make it out of there alive. If anything there are a lot of thrills throughout this story as there is a lot of action and in a lot of ways I really admired Ellen.
This is one of those stories that you don’t know who is trustworthy. All the odds are against Ellen and she can’t trust or rely on anyone to help her out of the situation she has found herself in. I don’t think I could think of anything worse than no one believing you where the implications of not being taken seriously could have an astronomic affect on a lot of people. It is a huge burden to carry.
Committed is a fast-paced, adrenaline fuelled read that had me on the edge of my seat. It is definitely worthy of being on the big screen. I think I read most of it with my mouth wide open and I kept forgetting to breath as the pacing was full on, not dropping for a second. With how the story ends, I am really hoping there is more to come as I would love to see more of Ellen who is strong willed and whilst hardened in some ways, was full of empathy also. This is a brilliant novel and a must read for thriller fans who love lots of action with a strong and believable storyline.
My thanks to Wildflower Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
July 29, 2023
Wow. I have read other previous books from Chris Merrit which I have enjoyed but Committed by the author is on another level. This is an Excellent high octane read that I couldn’t put down and kept me reading into the small hours of the morning. If you are a fan of ‘ Jack Reacher’ type of stories. This book will be for you.
Ellen worked for the CIA. But when a major incident in Paris that went wrong that left a lot of people dead. She blames herself and suffers from PTSD. So now she is a mum with a six-year-old boy name Josh, and he is her world.
When she overhears details of a terror attack going to take place in six days. Her old CIA instincts kick in and vows to herself that he needs to stop it before it happens. It might get rid of the guilt of what happened in Paris.
But she gets arrested and instead of going to Jail she is committed to a Psychiatric unit when she tries to get help with the attack. They think that she is delusional. And when another inmate is trying to kill her, they think Ellen is making it up and getting worse. Even her own husband Harry, at first doesn’t believe her. Until she gets lucky and one of the doctors helps her escape.
She carries on the hunt of the terrorist.
Thank you, the publisher, for a copy of Committed by Chris Merrit. This is another brilliant book from the author. It is a fast-paced thriller with Ellen trying to escape danger in every turn. I found the story original and some instants quite breath taking and all for the protagonist to be female with her maternal side and doing the right thing and her instincts as an ex- CIA agent. What a great mix. I kind of guessed the outcome at the end. But it didn’t spoil it for me. Will there be more of Ellen? I do hope so. I would love to see this develop into a series. 5 stars from me.
Ellen worked for the CIA. But when a major incident in Paris that went wrong that left a lot of people dead. She blames herself and suffers from PTSD. So now she is a mum with a six-year-old boy name Josh, and he is her world.
When she overhears details of a terror attack going to take place in six days. Her old CIA instincts kick in and vows to herself that he needs to stop it before it happens. It might get rid of the guilt of what happened in Paris.
But she gets arrested and instead of going to Jail she is committed to a Psychiatric unit when she tries to get help with the attack. They think that she is delusional. And when another inmate is trying to kill her, they think Ellen is making it up and getting worse. Even her own husband Harry, at first doesn’t believe her. Until she gets lucky and one of the doctors helps her escape.
She carries on the hunt of the terrorist.
Thank you, the publisher, for a copy of Committed by Chris Merrit. This is another brilliant book from the author. It is a fast-paced thriller with Ellen trying to escape danger in every turn. I found the story original and some instants quite breath taking and all for the protagonist to be female with her maternal side and doing the right thing and her instincts as an ex- CIA agent. What a great mix. I kind of guessed the outcome at the end. But it didn’t spoil it for me. Will there be more of Ellen? I do hope so. I would love to see this develop into a series. 5 stars from me.
October 13, 2023
Ellen McGinley is an ex-CIA operative who has been suffering from PTSD since an incident in Paris six years ago after which she left the CIA and became a full-time mother.
Ellen overhears a plot to cause a massive incident in the US in which many will die. Shortly afterward she is attacked but she uses her CIA training to defeat her attacker. Unfortunately, the police take her in for questioning and they don’t believe her story, especially as there is no evidence that she worked for the CIA. In the end, she is committed to a psychiatric hospital for a 72-hour evaluation.
How can Ellen make people believe her and save hundreds or even thousands of lives when those around her either think she is crazy or is working with some powerful people to keep her locked up?
Committed is a gripping and exciting novel that had me shouting at the pages to leave Ellen alone. Everyone seems to be against her including one of the patients who takes a pop at her more than once.
The story is told over 7 days which are split into three parts and feature present and past sections. We also get a few chapters from the ‘bad guys’. The narrative flows well and it sucks you into the plot. More than once I thought I’ll stop after this chapter and then kept on for a good few more. It is totally addictive.
Committed reminded a bit of Terminator Two when Sarah Connor is locked up and she is desperate to escape knowing that she needed to help save the world. Ellen reminded me a lot of her, especially her determination, strength, and fighting skills.
With plenty of action and tense moments, Committed is a breathtaking novel that I absolutely adored from the first page to the last.
Ellen overhears a plot to cause a massive incident in the US in which many will die. Shortly afterward she is attacked but she uses her CIA training to defeat her attacker. Unfortunately, the police take her in for questioning and they don’t believe her story, especially as there is no evidence that she worked for the CIA. In the end, she is committed to a psychiatric hospital for a 72-hour evaluation.
How can Ellen make people believe her and save hundreds or even thousands of lives when those around her either think she is crazy or is working with some powerful people to keep her locked up?
Committed is a gripping and exciting novel that had me shouting at the pages to leave Ellen alone. Everyone seems to be against her including one of the patients who takes a pop at her more than once.
The story is told over 7 days which are split into three parts and feature present and past sections. We also get a few chapters from the ‘bad guys’. The narrative flows well and it sucks you into the plot. More than once I thought I’ll stop after this chapter and then kept on for a good few more. It is totally addictive.
Committed reminded a bit of Terminator Two when Sarah Connor is locked up and she is desperate to escape knowing that she needed to help save the world. Ellen reminded me a lot of her, especially her determination, strength, and fighting skills.
With plenty of action and tense moments, Committed is a breathtaking novel that I absolutely adored from the first page to the last.
October 26, 2023
This is a white knuckle ride of a read! I loved Ellen McGinley and was willing her to get through everything that was thrown at her throughout the story.
I also thought that Dr Vang was a brilliant creation. His intervention and execution in helping Ellen were amazing. This story encompasses every single feeling. Being a patriot, being a wife and mother, PTSD, grief, courage etc. There’s a massive amount in this book and instead of my usual staying up all night to read I read it in small chunks so I could really take it in. Ellen’s a hyped up, mega version of Jack Reacher and it’s good to have a female protagonist who is beating the odds. It’s an intricate and cleverly written novel that really grabs you and hauls you along with it. It’s full of heart and feelings, not just daring and darkness. So, if you think this is not your type of read, give it a go and I think you’re going to be pleasantly surprised, because it’s utterly brilliant. Ellen is suffering from PTSD from a previous experience and comparing and the way it’s written is heartfelt and it makes you have more empathy towards her as a character.
The last few lines though… I’d almost convinced myself that I really must be wrong and it was someone else…but no. I cannot wait to read the next instalment of this story.
With thanks to Rosie Margesson, Wildfire books and the author for the advanced reading copy of this book.
I also thought that Dr Vang was a brilliant creation. His intervention and execution in helping Ellen were amazing. This story encompasses every single feeling. Being a patriot, being a wife and mother, PTSD, grief, courage etc. There’s a massive amount in this book and instead of my usual staying up all night to read I read it in small chunks so I could really take it in. Ellen’s a hyped up, mega version of Jack Reacher and it’s good to have a female protagonist who is beating the odds. It’s an intricate and cleverly written novel that really grabs you and hauls you along with it. It’s full of heart and feelings, not just daring and darkness. So, if you think this is not your type of read, give it a go and I think you’re going to be pleasantly surprised, because it’s utterly brilliant. Ellen is suffering from PTSD from a previous experience and comparing and the way it’s written is heartfelt and it makes you have more empathy towards her as a character.
The last few lines though… I’d almost convinced myself that I really must be wrong and it was someone else…but no. I cannot wait to read the next instalment of this story.
With thanks to Rosie Margesson, Wildfire books and the author for the advanced reading copy of this book.
August 29, 2023
This is the first book I've read by Merritt and I wasn't disappointed. Devouring it in two days, I couldn't wait to get to the end and was thrilled by the twists and high-thrill scenes along the way. Fans of Prison Break and the TV programme 'Hunted' will enjoy the fast paced emotional excitement from reading this book. It makes you raise your eyebrows in surprise, bite your nails with tension and sigh with relief with countless close-calls. Your brain will race as you try to figure out whether the main character, Ellen McGinley will succeed in preventing the terrorist attack and how she will escape the many dangerous situations she encounters alone and with so much stacked against her.
This was such an enjoyable read, but some of the scenes are closely related to ones that I have seen on TV programmes like Bad Girls. For this reason, I will give this book a solid 4 stars for the way it gripped me. The way the storyline was cohesive and came together well. I'm delighted to see that there will be a sequel and I'd definitely like to read it and follow Ellen McGinley on her next dangerous mission! Another book that makes it onto Mrs Bennett's Bookshelf and one that I'd recommend to all fans of thrillers.
This was such an enjoyable read, but some of the scenes are closely related to ones that I have seen on TV programmes like Bad Girls. For this reason, I will give this book a solid 4 stars for the way it gripped me. The way the storyline was cohesive and came together well. I'm delighted to see that there will be a sequel and I'd definitely like to read it and follow Ellen McGinley on her next dangerous mission! Another book that makes it onto Mrs Bennett's Bookshelf and one that I'd recommend to all fans of thrillers.
July 17, 2023
I have to be honest, I wasn't quite sure what to make off this book. I really did enjoy reading it but I think because some of it seemed so far from reality, I just wasn't sure on the storyline.
Whilst working as CIA undercover officer, Ellen felt she totally let down her country when secret information she was privy to led to a fatal bombing within France. Ellen suffered PTSD and left the CIA under what she felt was a black cloud. Whilst out in her home country America , she hears rumours of a terrorist plot that is going to take place in 6 days time. However, after attacking a suspected perpetrator Ellen is arrested and put into psychiatric care and professionals decide she is delusional.
Ellen is desperate to make up for the Paris attack and relies on contacts to help her escape the hospital and prevent the terrorist attack....Will be be able to do this.
Thus book is not for the fai nt hearted but if you enjoy a gritty thriller, this book is for you.
Whilst working as CIA undercover officer, Ellen felt she totally let down her country when secret information she was privy to led to a fatal bombing within France. Ellen suffered PTSD and left the CIA under what she felt was a black cloud. Whilst out in her home country America , she hears rumours of a terrorist plot that is going to take place in 6 days time. However, after attacking a suspected perpetrator Ellen is arrested and put into psychiatric care and professionals decide she is delusional.
Ellen is desperate to make up for the Paris attack and relies on contacts to help her escape the hospital and prevent the terrorist attack....Will be be able to do this.
Thus book is not for the fai nt hearted but if you enjoy a gritty thriller, this book is for you.
October 9, 2023
I loved the sound of this story and couldn't wait to get started. The story is about Ellen who has been through a lot in her past, she was a CIA agent and is now trying to overcome her PTSD when she overhears something that could be detrimental to the world. But when she gets herself involved she doesn't realise how her world will be crashing down. Locked up in a psychiatric ward she is going to do everything to show people that she is right about this threat and will do whatever she can to protect her family. I liked the way that we hear Ellen's story but we also hear from a member of the gang who want to bring the world to an end. I found it tense, gripping and heart pounding. Most of the chapters I had my heart in my mouth wondering what would happen. I feared for Ellen's life a number of times, It was not the outcome I would ever of expected but it was such a great ending.
August 23, 2023
This is the very definition of a fast-paced thriller and I absolutely loved it! The sort of book that drags you in right from the start and doesn't let you go, with shock after shock. Its adrenaline pumping, high octane action makes your own heart race as Ellen finds herself in a situation that seems impossible to get out of. The author has created a fantastic central character, who I enjoyed getting to know through a really intriguing plot. It had a flavour of Jack Reacher, but her situation is completely different and I liked reading about a kick-ass female lead. A big fat five stars from me. Bring on the next one!
December 6, 2023
well written page-turner.
a very simple premise Ellen McGinley, a former agent is recovering from PTSD and overhears a conversation about a plot. It appears to her its a domestic terrorist plan on US soil. This sets the clock ticking as McGinley has to not only convince her superiors of the threat, but protect her son, Josh.
This book is clever, smart, sharp and deftly avoids the pitfalls of this genre.
Recommended.
Chris Merritt will be at Newcastle Noir on December 9. I look forward to chatting with him then.
a very simple premise Ellen McGinley, a former agent is recovering from PTSD and overhears a conversation about a plot. It appears to her its a domestic terrorist plan on US soil. This sets the clock ticking as McGinley has to not only convince her superiors of the threat, but protect her son, Josh.
This book is clever, smart, sharp and deftly avoids the pitfalls of this genre.
Recommended.
Chris Merritt will be at Newcastle Noir on December 9. I look forward to chatting with him then.
October 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. More than I expected to for some reason.
The writing style is pacey, engaging and thrilling.
A good (if a little predictable) twisty ending but I was disappointed to note that it was missing the very end section. I'm guessing it is to encourage people to buy the next one but that never works and it actually put me off which is a real shame.
Great novel apart from that though and enough of a revelation not to need it.
The writing style is pacey, engaging and thrilling.
A good (if a little predictable) twisty ending but I was disappointed to note that it was missing the very end section. I'm guessing it is to encourage people to buy the next one but that never works and it actually put me off which is a real shame.
Great novel apart from that though and enough of a revelation not to need it.
November 18, 2023
A fast paced thriller set in America by author Chris Merrit.whose novels are new to me. I liked the character of Ellen, traumatised from her previous life as a CIA operative but a dedicated wife, mother and daughter, her strong moral code plunging her into danger when she overhears a threat to national security. I guessed the twist partway through but will read the sequel as I am sure there is more to come. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.
July 27, 2023
An incredible story where one woman’s battle against her past and the present is all that can stop Armageddon. Chris Merritt’s legendary story telling ramps up another notch with this high concept thriller where the internal and external demons seem to make failure inevitable. A brilliant book by any standards.
October 15, 2023
Not my usual kind of thriller but I was soon drawn into the plot and enjoyed the thrills. Ellen is a great hero character with only good on her mind and in her intentions. A modern day Robin Hood.
The excitement did dip a little but on the whole it’s a very well written book and I will look out for the obvious follow on.
The excitement did dip a little but on the whole it’s a very well written book and I will look out for the obvious follow on.
November 23, 2023
This is a punitive rating for the cliffhanger ending. An annoying practice which should be stamped out. Half a book only deserves half a rating! Just finish the thing, and start another if you want to do a series.
February 11, 2024
I met the writer at Bloody Scotland and I really loved this story and there will be a sequel. It’s about a terrorist gang and how a former CIA operative tracked them down. There will be a follow up
November 2, 2023
Ellen McGinley is a wonderfully written complex character as the main protagonist. On one hand she has a very unexpected important job to do, on another, she has her personal mental health battles to overcome.
It is a gripping and is mostly set in Pennsylvania. Ellen McGinley is a former CIA Officer and is grappling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which in itself makes for interesting reading, and then she becomes aware of domestic terror occurring.
Ellen finds herself being committed into a psychiatric ward. It’s supposed to be secure, but instead she finds herself in mortal danger. The writing is darkly tense and from here on in, it becomes even more of a page-turner. Ellen knows what she saw and wholly believes and knows the implications if a terrorist attack occurs. She has a major problem, apart from being diagnosed as being delusional and can’t leave the hospital, no one believes her. There is then, no one she can trust. She must use all her experience and willpower to keep going to save lives against terror as readers are led down a dark twisty path at speed, with edge of your seat tension.
The calibre of plotting and writing is of high quality and won’t leave you disappointed. It will leave its mark, (in a positive light) and leave you wanting more from this author, or reading from the back catalogue, if you haven’t already done so. He uses all his knowledge and experiences and skilfully fictionalises them into books you can’t put down.
It is a gripping and is mostly set in Pennsylvania. Ellen McGinley is a former CIA Officer and is grappling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which in itself makes for interesting reading, and then she becomes aware of domestic terror occurring.
Ellen finds herself being committed into a psychiatric ward. It’s supposed to be secure, but instead she finds herself in mortal danger. The writing is darkly tense and from here on in, it becomes even more of a page-turner. Ellen knows what she saw and wholly believes and knows the implications if a terrorist attack occurs. She has a major problem, apart from being diagnosed as being delusional and can’t leave the hospital, no one believes her. There is then, no one she can trust. She must use all her experience and willpower to keep going to save lives against terror as readers are led down a dark twisty path at speed, with edge of your seat tension.
The calibre of plotting and writing is of high quality and won’t leave you disappointed. It will leave its mark, (in a positive light) and leave you wanting more from this author, or reading from the back catalogue, if you haven’t already done so. He uses all his knowledge and experiences and skilfully fictionalises them into books you can’t put down.
December 16, 2023
WOW. This book was AMAZING!! This thriller was definitely thrilling and completely packed with action. I felt like I was reading a James Bond movie! I've not really read a thriller book like this before that includes terrorism, the CIA and politics. This was completely new to me and I read most of the book in just one day which is rare for me. We meet Peter who is an outcast in life compared to his brother Mitch and clearly just wants to make his brother and his friends feel like he's worthy of being friends with them and you can see how he was pressured into joining their 'mission'. This was definitely an 'on the edge of your seat' read and I thought the pacing was perfect. We see a 'mystery' person in the book who is involved in the terrorist plot and I knew who it was at the end which makes me SO excited to read the next book from this series! I would totally recommend this book if you love fast paced,action packed and adrenaline pumping reads!
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