What do you think?
Hitman #2
Damnation
THE OFFICIAL, ALL-ORIGINAL, ALL-OUT THRILLING PREQUEL TO THE MUCH-ANTICIPATED NEW GAME ABSOLUTION
Since the devastating conclusion of Blood Money, Agent 47 has been MIA. Now fans awaiting the return of the blockbuster videogame and film phenomenon can pinpoint the location of the world’s most brutal and effective killer-for-hire before he reemerges in Absolution. When the Agency lures him back with a mission that will require every last ounce of his stealth, strength, and undercover tactics, they grossly underestimate the silent assassin’s own agenda. Because this time, Agent 47 isn’t just going to bite the hand that feeds him. He’s going tear it off and annihilate anyone who stands in his way.
Since the devastating conclusion of Blood Money, Agent 47 has been MIA. Now fans awaiting the return of the blockbuster videogame and film phenomenon can pinpoint the location of the world’s most brutal and effective killer-for-hire before he reemerges in Absolution. When the Agency lures him back with a mission that will require every last ounce of his stealth, strength, and undercover tactics, they grossly underestimate the silent assassin’s own agenda. Because this time, Agent 47 isn’t just going to bite the hand that feeds him. He’s going tear it off and annihilate anyone who stands in his way.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
Raymond Benson
160 books310 followersRaymond Benson is the author of approximately 40 titles. Among his works are the critically-acclaimed and New York Times best-selling serial THE BLACK STILETTO, and he was also the third--and first American--continuation author of the official James Bond 007 novels. His latest novels are HOTEL DESTINY--A GHOST NOIR, BLUES IN THE DARK, IN THE HUSH OF THE NIGHT and THE SECRETS ON CHICORY LANE.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 11, 2015
Hitman: Damnation is the second novel of the Hitman expanded universe novels chronicling the adventures of Agent 47 outside of his wildly successful video game series. The books switch authors from William C. Dietz to Raymond Benson, the latter being most famous for the brief period where he wrote the official James Bond pastiches/continuation novels. I like Raymond Benson's novels but he's a writer with several noticeable tics that sometimes can interfere with your enjoyment of a character.
So, what did I think?
It's pretty good, arguably better than The Enemy Within, but some fans will dislike its treatment of 47. The premise of the novel is it's a few months before the events of Hitman: Absolution. Diana Burnwood has defected from the International Contract Agency and is actively working to bring them down. When her attempt to recruit Agent 47 goes disastrously wrong, he is left believing she's betrayed him unto death. The ICA proceeds to recruit Agent 47 again, the latter having left their service years ago, sending after an American evangelist with his own private army to see if he's up to hunting down Burnwood.
The villain, Charlie Wilkens, is a transparent send-up of various American evangelical politicians combined into one. Honestly, he's actually more likable than the majority of these with more reasonable beliefs. It's just he's also engaging in terrorist activities with an organization called the New Model Army. I got a chuckle out of the fact Charlie is funding his campaign with the proceeds from a stand-in Chick-fil-a.
Fans of 47 may have difficulty with the fact Benson gives 47 a temporary addiction to pain medication for the purpose of having him give it up. Likewise, Benson has 47 possess a "not-love interest" in Helena Mc Adams. Much like 47 in the movies, he's not sexually interested in her but the emotional support they provide. Given Helena Mc Adams is a former prostitute and drug-addict saved by Charlie Wilken's ministry, this is not a relationship which will end well and, no spoilers, doesn't.
I liked the book's brief inclusion of Travis, Jade, and Diana as well as the tie-ins to Hitman: Absolution but think they could have been larger. It seems to me that Diana's burning the ICA would be a more interesting subplot than the assassination of Mike Huckabee/Mitt Romney's spiritual cousin but that's just me. I also think the plot suffers from the fact it requires a character to hire the world's best assassin to fake an assassination attempt on him without telling him it's supposed to be a fake.
Another issue I had with the book was Agent 47 kills a number of innocents throughout the book due to his inability to use his stealth skills to their full potential. This left me feeling a bit off as while I could attribute it to his pill addiction, the fact Agent 47 avoids collateral damage is one of the few redeeming qualities the character possesses. It becomes hard to root for him even against a man planning a fascist coup given we watch him throw a woman overboard to drown with nary a second thought. Then again, other fans may appreciate 47 being portrayed as every bit that amoral.
In conclusion, Hitman: Damnation isn't a great book but it's an entertaining one. There's a lot of good character development, plot points, and a fun Bondian-esque story. Others may have issues with the fact 47 acts out of character in several ways or the rather off-kilter villain. I still enjoyed the book and recommend it to fans of the franchise.
8.5/10
So, what did I think?
It's pretty good, arguably better than The Enemy Within, but some fans will dislike its treatment of 47. The premise of the novel is it's a few months before the events of Hitman: Absolution. Diana Burnwood has defected from the International Contract Agency and is actively working to bring them down. When her attempt to recruit Agent 47 goes disastrously wrong, he is left believing she's betrayed him unto death. The ICA proceeds to recruit Agent 47 again, the latter having left their service years ago, sending after an American evangelist with his own private army to see if he's up to hunting down Burnwood.
The villain, Charlie Wilkens, is a transparent send-up of various American evangelical politicians combined into one. Honestly, he's actually more likable than the majority of these with more reasonable beliefs. It's just he's also engaging in terrorist activities with an organization called the New Model Army. I got a chuckle out of the fact Charlie is funding his campaign with the proceeds from a stand-in Chick-fil-a.
Fans of 47 may have difficulty with the fact Benson gives 47 a temporary addiction to pain medication for the purpose of having him give it up. Likewise, Benson has 47 possess a "not-love interest" in Helena Mc Adams. Much like 47 in the movies, he's not sexually interested in her but the emotional support they provide. Given Helena Mc Adams is a former prostitute and drug-addict saved by Charlie Wilken's ministry, this is not a relationship which will end well and, no spoilers, doesn't.
I liked the book's brief inclusion of Travis, Jade, and Diana as well as the tie-ins to Hitman: Absolution but think they could have been larger. It seems to me that Diana's burning the ICA would be a more interesting subplot than the assassination of Mike Huckabee/Mitt Romney's spiritual cousin but that's just me. I also think the plot suffers from the fact it requires a character to hire the world's best assassin to fake an assassination attempt on him without telling him it's supposed to be a fake.
Another issue I had with the book was Agent 47 kills a number of innocents throughout the book due to his inability to use his stealth skills to their full potential. This left me feeling a bit off as while I could attribute it to his pill addiction, the fact Agent 47 avoids collateral damage is one of the few redeeming qualities the character possesses. It becomes hard to root for him even against a man planning a fascist coup given we watch him throw a woman overboard to drown with nary a second thought. Then again, other fans may appreciate 47 being portrayed as every bit that amoral.
In conclusion, Hitman: Damnation isn't a great book but it's an entertaining one. There's a lot of good character development, plot points, and a fun Bondian-esque story. Others may have issues with the fact 47 acts out of character in several ways or the rather off-kilter villain. I still enjoyed the book and recommend it to fans of the franchise.
8.5/10
July 19, 2025
A solid read—a faithful and well-paced story that felt like one long, immersive mission. Agent 47 is perfectly in character, and I appreciated the plot and the subtle nods to the wider Hitman lore. One standout element was how the author incorporated 47’s use of painkillers. Tying the in-game healing mechanic to his anxiety and dependence was a clever and meaningful touch.
While I enjoyed it overall, I wish the story had more tension or higher stakes—something to make it truly gripping. As it stands, it’s a good espionage tale that respects the franchise and delivers a satisfying 47 experience, even if it doesn't quite reach thrilling heights.
While I enjoyed it overall, I wish the story had more tension or higher stakes—something to make it truly gripping. As it stands, it’s a good espionage tale that respects the franchise and delivers a satisfying 47 experience, even if it doesn't quite reach thrilling heights.
Read
March 19, 2013HITMAN: DAMNATION
By Raymond Benson
Based on characters from the popular video game, Benson unfolds a story featuring the world’s best assassin, a genetically created and enhanced man who goes by the moniker Agent 47. Travel to exotic places such as Nepal, Cyprus, and the Caribbean. Meet crime lords and negotiate shady deals with enigmatic contacts. The bullets will fly and the bodies will fall as Agent 47 seeks to complete what he was made to do.
In the middle of a mission, 47 finds his life in danger and his handler vanished. He survives and a year later, after another successful mission with an unexpected ending, tentatively rejoins his employer, the International Contract Agency. He wants to know the truth about his former handler and the way to start is to accept an assignment. His targets: American Presidential candidates from a new political party connected to a popular and growing religious order. The more embedded 47 becomes, the more he questions the characters of the players involved. A more pressing problem, however, may be his coming to grips with his own ‘humanity.’
This was something new for me. I’ve seen the movie version of the video game, but never played the game. I’m attracted to novelizations for some of these games, especially when I keep in mind it’s a fictional story about a fictional game. There is a lot of action, but 47 isn’t infallible or invulnerable. Benson captures the characters and gives them personalities that kept me going. The books are a progression of the character throughout his career and that’s what makes good reading...when a character questions and evaluates his view of the world. This is the type of action-packed book that will thrill and urges me to read another...and another.
Reviewed by Stephen L. Brayton, author of “Beta” for Suspense Magazine
By Raymond Benson
Based on characters from the popular video game, Benson unfolds a story featuring the world’s best assassin, a genetically created and enhanced man who goes by the moniker Agent 47. Travel to exotic places such as Nepal, Cyprus, and the Caribbean. Meet crime lords and negotiate shady deals with enigmatic contacts. The bullets will fly and the bodies will fall as Agent 47 seeks to complete what he was made to do.
In the middle of a mission, 47 finds his life in danger and his handler vanished. He survives and a year later, after another successful mission with an unexpected ending, tentatively rejoins his employer, the International Contract Agency. He wants to know the truth about his former handler and the way to start is to accept an assignment. His targets: American Presidential candidates from a new political party connected to a popular and growing religious order. The more embedded 47 becomes, the more he questions the characters of the players involved. A more pressing problem, however, may be his coming to grips with his own ‘humanity.’
This was something new for me. I’ve seen the movie version of the video game, but never played the game. I’m attracted to novelizations for some of these games, especially when I keep in mind it’s a fictional story about a fictional game. There is a lot of action, but 47 isn’t infallible or invulnerable. Benson captures the characters and gives them personalities that kept me going. The books are a progression of the character throughout his career and that’s what makes good reading...when a character questions and evaluates his view of the world. This is the type of action-packed book that will thrill and urges me to read another...and another.
Reviewed by Stephen L. Brayton, author of “Beta” for Suspense Magazine
January 15, 2015
I've read both this one and the previous Hitman novel. Although I prefer the story of Enemy Within, this one by far has the better writing, characters, conflicts, and pacing. I actually felt for the character of Helen in this book, and for 47. The chapters where we see from 47's first-person perspective is genius. And the pacing is FANTASTIC compared to Enemy Within. Rather than ending with a quiet whimper and no climax, this book has an extremely exciting climax with a vengeful and angry 47, and falling action. I also love that not only do we see from 47's perspective, but also experience his new-found emotions.
Awesome action! A well thought out and tangled plot! And a dark anti-hero you can root for! The tightly woven plot threads common of the Hitman series and the cold personality of 47 reflect perfectly from the franchise. Benson did a spectacular job of putting together a great thriller with the titular contract killer, his love of his trusty Silverballers, getting the job done efficiently and seemingly more human perspective make for a top of the line suspense story. I wish another book was out right now so I could gobble it up in days but that isn't the case.
Awesome action! A well thought out and tangled plot! And a dark anti-hero you can root for! The tightly woven plot threads common of the Hitman series and the cold personality of 47 reflect perfectly from the franchise. Benson did a spectacular job of putting together a great thriller with the titular contract killer, his love of his trusty Silverballers, getting the job done efficiently and seemingly more human perspective make for a top of the line suspense story. I wish another book was out right now so I could gobble it up in days but that isn't the case.
October 21, 2014
Hitman Damnation is the second book tie-in for the Hitman video game franchise. It is the prequel that takes place between Blood Money (game 4) and Absolution (game 5.) Raymond Benson wrote the novel, and while the experience of reading it was enjoyable from a plot and writing standpoint there were some concerns I had with this one. One I do not think that Raymond Benson has played the games, due to him starting off with stealth and then having things get loud and crazy. Two, he gave 47 a girlfriend which bugged me because 47 has always struck me as asexual and avoiding even a kiss on the cheek at most. Other than that this book was worth the time, and it did vamp me up for the game which I played a few weeks after reading this.
June 1, 2021
My rating would be 3.5.
I've had this book on my shelf for about 10 years but finally decided to read it after having nothing else to read.
I am a fan of the games and have played all the games until Hitman Absolution. Here are some of the things I liked/disliked about the book.
The good:
1. Ended up being better than expected. The plot was quite good and had some mystery elements to it.
2. Chapters are short.
3. Stayed true to the character right throughout.
The bad:
1. Was really put off by the writing style.
2. Quite predictable throughout, except for a few moments towards the end of the book.
Wouldn't recommend the book if you haven't played the games.
I've had this book on my shelf for about 10 years but finally decided to read it after having nothing else to read.
I am a fan of the games and have played all the games until Hitman Absolution. Here are some of the things I liked/disliked about the book.
The good:
1. Ended up being better than expected. The plot was quite good and had some mystery elements to it.
2. Chapters are short.
3. Stayed true to the character right throughout.
The bad:
1. Was really put off by the writing style.
2. Quite predictable throughout, except for a few moments towards the end of the book.
Wouldn't recommend the book if you haven't played the games.
October 26, 2012
Awesome book, great prequel to the main game, which is coming out on November 20th. I'm curious how they're going to integrate this plot into the game.
January 7, 2019
I played Hitman Absolution before I read this story. I wished I would've waited, it filled in a lot of blanks, but more importantly it was a really good story.
November 28, 2024
This was a very interesting read for a few reasons. First and foremost is the fact that if this was written today I would be rolling my eyes at yet another overly political hamfisted, unsubtle Trump allegory...however it was released in...2012. Now maybe I just am seeing the book through a certain lense...surely being written in 2012 it can't really be about Trumps presidency right....let me go over just some of the similarities.
- Controversial and wealthy tv personality runs for president
- Runs on a platform of "America first"
- Does not outright say the words make america great again but it is explicitly stated multiple times the point of his candidacy is reestablishing americas former glory.
-two unsuccessful assassination attempts that lead his supporters to deify him and claim he is acting on behalf of God
-element of russian collusion and foreign interference in the election
-presented as a political outsider with many detractors but much more supporters among the people who holds massive rallies and is treated like a cult icon
-claims to be waging a political war against the established government and accuses certain agencies of conspiring against him
-talk of connections to domestic terrorist group
-staged violence at a rally in washington that leaves his supporters dead, injured or in jail.
-claims of him being a dangerous fascist who will upset the entire world
That's not even a complete list, it's so dead on that it leaves me with one of two options, the author is clairvoyant or the events of Trumps presidency is all a circus, was planned beforehand and the author who writes spy fiction exclusively has some sort of connection that made him privy to it ahead of time. I had the ending and pretty much all the events of the book figured out ahead of time simply by remembering the events of Trumps presidency...not sure if that means the book was predictable or I just made the obvious connection.
That political nonsense and propaganda aside I thought this author did a better job of writing the character and making the book feel more like it belonged in the Hitman universe. It still felt a little more like a spythriller than a true Hitman story... but it was a spy thriller where it at least felt like the main character was agent 47.
If you hate politics like me you'll be annoyed for most of it, but if you like spy thrillers and love the Hitman games you'll probably still enjoy it anyway...and more people should read this because I feel like I'm taking crazy pills.
- Controversial and wealthy tv personality runs for president
- Runs on a platform of "America first"
- Does not outright say the words make america great again but it is explicitly stated multiple times the point of his candidacy is reestablishing americas former glory.
-two unsuccessful assassination attempts that lead his supporters to deify him and claim he is acting on behalf of God
-element of russian collusion and foreign interference in the election
-presented as a political outsider with many detractors but much more supporters among the people who holds massive rallies and is treated like a cult icon
-claims to be waging a political war against the established government and accuses certain agencies of conspiring against him
-talk of connections to domestic terrorist group
-staged violence at a rally in washington that leaves his supporters dead, injured or in jail.
-claims of him being a dangerous fascist who will upset the entire world
That's not even a complete list, it's so dead on that it leaves me with one of two options, the author is clairvoyant or the events of Trumps presidency is all a circus, was planned beforehand and the author who writes spy fiction exclusively has some sort of connection that made him privy to it ahead of time. I had the ending and pretty much all the events of the book figured out ahead of time simply by remembering the events of Trumps presidency...not sure if that means the book was predictable or I just made the obvious connection.
That political nonsense and propaganda aside I thought this author did a better job of writing the character and making the book feel more like it belonged in the Hitman universe. It still felt a little more like a spythriller than a true Hitman story... but it was a spy thriller where it at least felt like the main character was agent 47.
If you hate politics like me you'll be annoyed for most of it, but if you like spy thrillers and love the Hitman games you'll probably still enjoy it anyway...and more people should read this because I feel like I'm taking crazy pills.
August 15, 2024
I was an absolute sucker for when 47 just won't shut up about Diana in the early chapters of the book. Like man, I get it, I too would turn the world upside down for her.
Absolution was my gateway to the games, so yes, I just have to read this one. But uh... the entire book felt too public, too gimmicki, too American, and yes, James Bond-y instead of the usual muted, straight to the point, and calculated essence of the Hitman franchise.
I don't mind the humanization of 47. In fact, I liked it, and it felt necessary with the direction Absolution was going for. I just don’t think Helen would've been the way to do it. Helen felt like one of James Bond's damsel eye candy that he just seemed to have in every movie. She’s such a wasted character, in my opinion. Hitman has so many strong women, and she felt so flat next to Diana and Jade. And while, that’s understandable since her weakness is the reason she was in a cult in the first place, it makes no sense for her to be so meek when she's one of Wilkins' trusted personnel. I mean, she was trustworthy enough to be brought to Cyprus and was striving there, so she's obviously not weak, but why does she feel that way? It was such a waste to just kill her without even making her play the traitor to either the cult or 47. She went on and on with how much she likes and maybe even love him but, didn’t even give him the chance to talk to her. Like??? At least have that scene and then make her decide if he was even worth it. That way, her own betrayal could've left 47 doubting Diana even more. It was also a missed opportunity to explore a child character within the cult that could've mirrored Victoria and 47. A child with basically no body autonomy, used and ordered around by the adults that's supposed to take care of them for the benefit of an institution. That could invoke anger and pity if we really wanted to talk about emotions. Love either platonic or romantic isn't the only thing that would prove our humanity.
But yeah, I really loved the scene where he climbed out of wet cement, and the school bus scene where he shot Cromwell through the open door. Pretty cool, this author knows how to write his action scenes, but they're sadly not Hitman action scenes. This might've been why they had to start the series over, but I appreciate it nonetheless. Thank you for introducing me to 47.
Absolution was my gateway to the games, so yes, I just have to read this one. But uh... the entire book felt too public, too gimmicki, too American, and yes, James Bond-y instead of the usual muted, straight to the point, and calculated essence of the Hitman franchise.
I don't mind the humanization of 47. In fact, I liked it, and it felt necessary with the direction Absolution was going for. I just don’t think Helen would've been the way to do it. Helen felt like one of James Bond's damsel eye candy that he just seemed to have in every movie. She’s such a wasted character, in my opinion. Hitman has so many strong women, and she felt so flat next to Diana and Jade. And while, that’s understandable since her weakness is the reason she was in a cult in the first place, it makes no sense for her to be so meek when she's one of Wilkins' trusted personnel. I mean, she was trustworthy enough to be brought to Cyprus and was striving there, so she's obviously not weak, but why does she feel that way? It was such a waste to just kill her without even making her play the traitor to either the cult or 47. She went on and on with how much she likes and maybe even love him but, didn’t even give him the chance to talk to her. Like??? At least have that scene and then make her decide if he was even worth it. That way, her own betrayal could've left 47 doubting Diana even more. It was also a missed opportunity to explore a child character within the cult that could've mirrored Victoria and 47. A child with basically no body autonomy, used and ordered around by the adults that's supposed to take care of them for the benefit of an institution. That could invoke anger and pity if we really wanted to talk about emotions. Love either platonic or romantic isn't the only thing that would prove our humanity.
But yeah, I really loved the scene where he climbed out of wet cement, and the school bus scene where he shot Cromwell through the open door. Pretty cool, this author knows how to write his action scenes, but they're sadly not Hitman action scenes. This might've been why they had to start the series over, but I appreciate it nonetheless. Thank you for introducing me to 47.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2021
Hitman: Damnation is a... interesting addition to the franchise which at points seems confused as to Agent 47's character and usual motives. The twist can be guessed with ease about half way through and I was rarely surprised by this thriller.
The entertainment was less by the "master craft" writing and more via how over the top the book can get at times. It is certainly a book where you make your own fun. Which if you do it can be a fun way to kill a couple hours.
On a diversity note the book falls flat. I can not recall more than four named women in the book and none of them speak to each other, plus . Meanwhile racially the only named poc I can remember in the book is Jade, the ambiguous asian woman.
And then there is the ending. Massive spoilers ahead.
However despite everything I just wrote, I might reread this book. Like a cheesy movie there is something fun about picking it apart and going along for the ride.
I wouldn't recommend this book for anyone who does not know much about the Hitman franchise as this is a poor introduction and most of the fun you can have with this book will fly over their heads.
The entertainment was less by the "master craft" writing and more via how over the top the book can get at times. It is certainly a book where you make your own fun. Which if you do it can be a fun way to kill a couple hours.
On a diversity note the book falls flat. I can not recall more than four named women in the book and none of them speak to each other, plus . Meanwhile racially the only named poc I can remember in the book is Jade, the ambiguous asian woman.
And then there is the ending. Massive spoilers ahead.
However despite everything I just wrote, I might reread this book. Like a cheesy movie there is something fun about picking it apart and going along for the ride.
I wouldn't recommend this book for anyone who does not know much about the Hitman franchise as this is a poor introduction and most of the fun you can have with this book will fly over their heads.
December 31, 2018
Absolutely, delighted with the story after the video game Hitman: Blood Money.
I've been a big fan of Hitman franchise. Benson created the story where Agent 47 has different side of hunanity.
The story begins months before the events of Hitman: Absolution. Diana Burnwood has defected from the ICA and is actively working to bring them down. When her attempt to recruit Agent 47 goes disastrously wrong, he is left believing she's betrayed him unto death. The ICA proceeds to recruit Agent 47 again, the latter having left their service years ago, sending after an American evangelist with his own private army to see if he's up to hunting down Burnwood.
The villain, Charlie Wilkens, is a transparent send-up of various American evangelical politicians combined into one. He is popular to the majority of American people. It's just he's also engaging in terrorist activities with an organization called the New Model Army.
Benson also gives 47 a temporary addiction to pain medication for the purpose of having him give it up. Likewise, Benson has 47 possess a "not-love interest" in Helena Mc Adams. Much like 47 in the movies, he's not sexually interested in her but the emotional support they provide. Given Helena Mc Adams is a former prostitute and drug-addict saved by Charlie Wilken's ministry.
There is also Benjamin Travis as his new handler and Jade his secretary trying to find Diana Burnwood as a leverage for 47 to find out where Diana is, while it was for Benjamin to settle the score with 47.
In conclusion, it was well written for a fan of Hitman franchise. There's a lot of good character development, plot points, and a fun Bondian-esque story. Others may have issues with the fact 47 acts out of character in several ways or the rather off-kilter villain. I still enjoyed the book and recommend it to fans of the franchise.
I've been a big fan of Hitman franchise. Benson created the story where Agent 47 has different side of hunanity.
The story begins months before the events of Hitman: Absolution. Diana Burnwood has defected from the ICA and is actively working to bring them down. When her attempt to recruit Agent 47 goes disastrously wrong, he is left believing she's betrayed him unto death. The ICA proceeds to recruit Agent 47 again, the latter having left their service years ago, sending after an American evangelist with his own private army to see if he's up to hunting down Burnwood.
The villain, Charlie Wilkens, is a transparent send-up of various American evangelical politicians combined into one. He is popular to the majority of American people. It's just he's also engaging in terrorist activities with an organization called the New Model Army.
Benson also gives 47 a temporary addiction to pain medication for the purpose of having him give it up. Likewise, Benson has 47 possess a "not-love interest" in Helena Mc Adams. Much like 47 in the movies, he's not sexually interested in her but the emotional support they provide. Given Helena Mc Adams is a former prostitute and drug-addict saved by Charlie Wilken's ministry.
There is also Benjamin Travis as his new handler and Jade his secretary trying to find Diana Burnwood as a leverage for 47 to find out where Diana is, while it was for Benjamin to settle the score with 47.
In conclusion, it was well written for a fan of Hitman franchise. There's a lot of good character development, plot points, and a fun Bondian-esque story. Others may have issues with the fact 47 acts out of character in several ways or the rather off-kilter villain. I still enjoyed the book and recommend it to fans of the franchise.
January 30, 2024
História que serve como prelúdio para o enredo do jogo, o agente 47 recebeu uma história decente e que vale a pena ser lida. Uma ação leve com alguns momentos um pouco chocantes. Confesso que gostei mais do que imaginei que iria gostar
January 14, 2024
Edit: downgrading because the prose is actually so terrible I missed the sexism!!! (There is NO set of circumstances where a woman in Jade's position would "not mind" daily sexual harassment. Keeping her head down for the sake of her job? Yeah, sure. "Doesn't mind" because everyone on the boat thinks she's hot and that has nebulously defined perks? I call bullshit.)
What do things LOOK LIKE, RAYMOND??
I was going back through preview pages on Google Books for research purposes and I was reminded of how clunky the prose is. Benson DEFINITELY needs to learn him some showing vs telling.
As an aside, I did not, and still don't, care for the idea of 47 in a romantic entanglement.
What do things LOOK LIKE, RAYMOND??
I was going back through preview pages on Google Books for research purposes and I was reminded of how clunky the prose is. Benson DEFINITELY needs to learn him some showing vs telling.
As an aside, I did not, and still don't, care for the idea of 47 in a romantic entanglement.
February 5, 2023
Proper Agent 47 book. Encapsulated psychological and emotional parts of 47 and actually brought a realistic true-to-character development for him. It made me feel something, especially his interaction with Helen which answered many questions about his nature outside his work. I also love how the author took his time to learn the Hitman universe to the very small detail. Incredible book. Surely, I will read it again in the future as I find it hard to part ways after having read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2024
For a man who claims to have little to no emotion, Agent 47 sure does feel a lot.
While it felt clunky in some places, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable read. Benson is able to give 47 a distinctive and interesting personality (as well as a fascinating character arc) without making him feel completely out-of-character. The addition of Helen makes the story very memorable and she easily became one of my favorite characters.
While it felt clunky in some places, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable read. Benson is able to give 47 a distinctive and interesting personality (as well as a fascinating character arc) without making him feel completely out-of-character. The addition of Helen makes the story very memorable and she easily became one of my favorite characters.
July 2, 2021
Benson is always a good read
Well crafted tightly told story of a conflicted sociopath killer vs a celebrity politician. If he had orange hair it would have been perfect. In a world of authors that have no concept of grammar or spelling of is refreshing to find one that does. Thank you Raymond and your sophomore English teacher.
Well crafted tightly told story of a conflicted sociopath killer vs a celebrity politician. If he had orange hair it would have been perfect. In a world of authors that have no concept of grammar or spelling of is refreshing to find one that does. Thank you Raymond and your sophomore English teacher.
May 17, 2025
Far better than I expected for a video game tie-in novel, one that captures the vibe of the games incredibly well and expands a usually silent tabula rasa without contravening canon or breaking the view players would have of Agent 47.
Also hell yeah ace rep.
Also hell yeah ace rep.
December 5, 2020
It's nice to see Agent 47 have emotions for once. This shows a different side of the Hitman. Amazing read!
June 4, 2021
All around great book. Fast paced, filled with action. Just what everything Hitman needs. If I could rate higher I would. 10/10
September 1, 2022
Mostly meh, decidedly average and not as bad as I'd heard it to be. It lacks nuance of character for 47, but following him on a long from mission was interesting.
February 27, 2024
Cumplidora, muy entretenida de leer, sobre todo si se es fan de los videojuegos.
April 3, 2024
Raymond Benson giving hope to bald men that we can find love, too.
March 24, 2025
Didn't finish the book. Got bored early on in it.
July 5, 2025
much better than i was expected despite some interesting character choices and a surprisingly prescient plot
September 2, 2025
this is a fun book, its stupid like the games in the right ways. good time
February 18, 2026
While its canon to the story of the Absolution game, giving 47 an addiction problem and a girlfriend took him out of character based on the rest of the franchise.
August 18, 2017
I promise this is a review of Raymond Benson's Hitman novel, but Benson's James Bond led me to it.
Although Benson's had a place on my bookshelf since 1984's JAMES BOND BEDSIDE COMPANION only recently did I take the plunge and read his continuation novels about the character. They are far better than I ever dreamt---even his novelizations of the Brosnan Bond movies. I must admit I enjoyed Benson's own Union trilogy and other Bonds as much or more than Fleming's originals. I'd re-read them just before reading Benson's version, a compelling hybrid of Fleming's on-the-printed-page 007 darkness and the best aspects of moviedom's popcorn James Bond. These could be stories Fleming himself might've written had he lived, his last two books showed the astounding influence the first two films had on him.
Anyway, after tearing through all those spy novels I sought other books by Benson, ready for more. All of them looked like rapidfire rock 'n' roll action pulp, the kind I love, shoot'em up entertainment with accompanying serpentine plot. Knowing what kind of hardcore turbulence Benson can commit to paper made HITMAN: DAMNATION stand out in the pack. A few years ago I saw the HITMAN movie and liked the concept. HITMAN: DAMNATION has a cool cover, somber assassin packing a silver hand cannon, resembling a reservoir dog who somehow missed the heist that morning. So I bought the book and read it and it IS exciting, especially the bus chase at the end. I'd've never guessed Benson could match the excitement he infused his Bond books with, but he proved it wasn't a onetime fluke. HITMAN: DAMNATION is probably an over achievement on Benson's behalf. He could've kicked it with the advance check, turned in a manuscript not even a third as good as this and still had it published. But he didn't. Nice.
Exactly how did he do it then? He took a one-dimensional videogame hero with a number instead of a name (47 this time instead of 007) and not only fleshed him out but somehow got blood pumping through his veins too. In this book 47 has a palpable personality, conflicting foibles and emotional doubts as well as being embroiled in several ferocious fight scenes that are a joy to read. The plights of 47 are genuinely suspenseful here; like Fleming, Benson writes thrillers. The story decelerates only to introduce a mostly cliche-free cast: a soccer mom divorcee compelled to sell arms to make ends meet, a very wealthy munitions expert who dresses like a bum and lives in absolute squalor, a lonely churchwoman, a mystery man (I thought I had him figured out, but didn't). These are not the deepest multi-layered characterizations in fiction, but they well suffice to inhabit a quirky common ground in the plot and Benson does embellish the Hitman book with all sorts of motivation that is nonexistent in the movie and the game.
Overall HITMAN: DAMNATION is a worthwhile edge-of-your-seat read. And everyone knows reading exercises the mind more than playing videogames.
Although Benson's had a place on my bookshelf since 1984's JAMES BOND BEDSIDE COMPANION only recently did I take the plunge and read his continuation novels about the character. They are far better than I ever dreamt---even his novelizations of the Brosnan Bond movies. I must admit I enjoyed Benson's own Union trilogy and other Bonds as much or more than Fleming's originals. I'd re-read them just before reading Benson's version, a compelling hybrid of Fleming's on-the-printed-page 007 darkness and the best aspects of moviedom's popcorn James Bond. These could be stories Fleming himself might've written had he lived, his last two books showed the astounding influence the first two films had on him.
Anyway, after tearing through all those spy novels I sought other books by Benson, ready for more. All of them looked like rapidfire rock 'n' roll action pulp, the kind I love, shoot'em up entertainment with accompanying serpentine plot. Knowing what kind of hardcore turbulence Benson can commit to paper made HITMAN: DAMNATION stand out in the pack. A few years ago I saw the HITMAN movie and liked the concept. HITMAN: DAMNATION has a cool cover, somber assassin packing a silver hand cannon, resembling a reservoir dog who somehow missed the heist that morning. So I bought the book and read it and it IS exciting, especially the bus chase at the end. I'd've never guessed Benson could match the excitement he infused his Bond books with, but he proved it wasn't a onetime fluke. HITMAN: DAMNATION is probably an over achievement on Benson's behalf. He could've kicked it with the advance check, turned in a manuscript not even a third as good as this and still had it published. But he didn't. Nice.
Exactly how did he do it then? He took a one-dimensional videogame hero with a number instead of a name (47 this time instead of 007) and not only fleshed him out but somehow got blood pumping through his veins too. In this book 47 has a palpable personality, conflicting foibles and emotional doubts as well as being embroiled in several ferocious fight scenes that are a joy to read. The plights of 47 are genuinely suspenseful here; like Fleming, Benson writes thrillers. The story decelerates only to introduce a mostly cliche-free cast: a soccer mom divorcee compelled to sell arms to make ends meet, a very wealthy munitions expert who dresses like a bum and lives in absolute squalor, a lonely churchwoman, a mystery man (I thought I had him figured out, but didn't). These are not the deepest multi-layered characterizations in fiction, but they well suffice to inhabit a quirky common ground in the plot and Benson does embellish the Hitman book with all sorts of motivation that is nonexistent in the movie and the game.
Overall HITMAN: DAMNATION is a worthwhile edge-of-your-seat read. And everyone knows reading exercises the mind more than playing videogames.
August 12, 2015
A legend that falters
Spoiler alert
First I would like to address the dislikes I had with the book in what way would making hitman agent 47 a drug addict improve his image I mean come on he's a professional assassin and he gets addicted to painkillers doesn't he have a healing factor and his struggle with his emotions I mean come on why does he struggle with his emotions he should know he can't just shut them off it doesn't work that way even if he's a clone he still has emotions and feelings and he never lets himself feel them i just wanted him to think of a future with Helen I felt like the two of them really connected even if he was lying to her
And now what I liked about the book he was once more the perfect assassin killing with effortless willpower I love how he approached the mission of killing Charlie Wilkins the way he set everything up was well planned and very much like hitman the perfect assassin clone I loved how he was able to get close to Helen and oh my god he kissed her I just found myself wishing he would have spent the night with her but sadly he could never allow himself to be intimate with a women
I gave this book three stars for all those valid reasons above and I recommend this book to any newcomers but just know this isn't a good form of hitman and they should work on improving him in the future and any fans of the hitman universe well you already know once your half way in the reason why I gave it three stars though I'm sure to some I'm either generous or not so much
Spoiler alert
First I would like to address the dislikes I had with the book in what way would making hitman agent 47 a drug addict improve his image I mean come on he's a professional assassin and he gets addicted to painkillers doesn't he have a healing factor and his struggle with his emotions I mean come on why does he struggle with his emotions he should know he can't just shut them off it doesn't work that way even if he's a clone he still has emotions and feelings and he never lets himself feel them i just wanted him to think of a future with Helen I felt like the two of them really connected even if he was lying to her
And now what I liked about the book he was once more the perfect assassin killing with effortless willpower I love how he approached the mission of killing Charlie Wilkins the way he set everything up was well planned and very much like hitman the perfect assassin clone I loved how he was able to get close to Helen and oh my god he kissed her I just found myself wishing he would have spent the night with her but sadly he could never allow himself to be intimate with a women
I gave this book three stars for all those valid reasons above and I recommend this book to any newcomers but just know this isn't a good form of hitman and they should work on improving him in the future and any fans of the hitman universe well you already know once your half way in the reason why I gave it three stars though I'm sure to some I'm either generous or not so much
September 6, 2015
Benson captured the 47 persona perfectly in my view, making this a must-read for all fans of the games. It provides some additional backstory on the psychology of our favorite Hitman, without the author taking too many personal liberties in which he reinterprets it to his own liking. He really sticks to the world and characters created by IOI very well, but does allow more depth to 47's character, as well as some kind of evolution. The book also provides a very useful bridge between the games (Bloodmoney and Absolution) like it promises to.
In fact, it delivers on all of its promises, so that I'd also recommend it for people unfamiliar with the games. Thrilling, fast-paced action sequences, great tension building, switching perspectives, switching timelines, interesting characters and a plot that's not overly straightforward (though not too difficult either). It makes for a quick, easy and enjoyable read.
My only minor gripe: the big Hollywood-finale. I guess that's the direction the entire Hitman franchise is going in anyway (considering yet another Hitman movie now in theatres), but that doesn't mean I have to like it.
In fact, it delivers on all of its promises, so that I'd also recommend it for people unfamiliar with the games. Thrilling, fast-paced action sequences, great tension building, switching perspectives, switching timelines, interesting characters and a plot that's not overly straightforward (though not too difficult either). It makes for a quick, easy and enjoyable read.
My only minor gripe: the big Hollywood-finale. I guess that's the direction the entire Hitman franchise is going in anyway (considering yet another Hitman movie now in theatres), but that doesn't mean I have to like it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews