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Jon Reznick #13
Hard Duty
From bestselling author J. B. Turner comes a deadly mission for Jon Reznick—but when the target is a master of disinformation, finding him might be harder than killing him.
Black-ops specialist Jon Reznick is hoping for some well-earned down time under the Florida sun when he gets a surprise call from the CIA. An embittered US counterintelligence expert is about to sell a career’s worth of state secrets to the Russians, and the Agency wants Reznick to track him down.
With the spook holed up somewhere in the diplomatic cauldron of the Middle East, protected by highly trained Russian mercenaries, Reznick knows it’s almost certainly a suicide mission. But with tough Scot Mac McCafferty and cybersecurity genius Trevelle Williams to back him up, patriot Reznick is soon racing across the region in pursuit of the target.
Time is ticking and death is a strong possibility, but with stakes this high, for Jon Reznick there are no rules that can’t be broken…and failure is never an option.
Black-ops specialist Jon Reznick is hoping for some well-earned down time under the Florida sun when he gets a surprise call from the CIA. An embittered US counterintelligence expert is about to sell a career’s worth of state secrets to the Russians, and the Agency wants Reznick to track him down.
With the spook holed up somewhere in the diplomatic cauldron of the Middle East, protected by highly trained Russian mercenaries, Reznick knows it’s almost certainly a suicide mission. But with tough Scot Mac McCafferty and cybersecurity genius Trevelle Williams to back him up, patriot Reznick is soon racing across the region in pursuit of the target.
Time is ticking and death is a strong possibility, but with stakes this high, for Jon Reznick there are no rules that can’t be broken…and failure is never an option.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2024
985 people are currently reading
2689 people want to read
About the author
J.B. Turner
24 books895 followersJ.B. Turner is the bestselling author of the Jon Reznick thriller series. His next book, HARD SHADOWS (Thomas and Mercer), is published on 30 June 2026. He is a former journalist. His books have sold more than three million copies. He also wrote the American Ghost black-ops series and the Deborah Jones crime series. He has a keen interest in geo-politics. And he loves music. Everything from Beethoven to The Beatles, The Cure to Bach. And everything in between. He loves films. Well, good ones. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Taxi Driver, Goodfellas, Heat, The Godfather, The Offence, The Parallax View, Silver Linings Playbook, The Banshees of Inisherin, The Gray Man, The French Connection, Payback, It’s a Wonderful Life, Manhattan, Sideways, Annie Hall, Hell or High Water. TV shows he has enjoyed include: The Terminal List, The Kominsky Method, The Morning Show, Succession, Call My Agent!, Your Honor, The Undoing, Patrick Melrose, Colony, Bloodline, Mare of Easttown, Dead to Me, Fleishman is in Trouble, The Mosquito Coast and After Life. He lives in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is married with two children.
Literary Agent: Mitch Hoffman, The Aaron M. Priest Literary Agency, New York.
Film/TV: Rich Green, The Gotham Group, Los Angeles.
Literary Agent: Mitch Hoffman, The Aaron M. Priest Literary Agency, New York.
Film/TV: Rich Green, The Gotham Group, Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
September 16, 2024
J. B. Turner’s latest book in the Jon Reznick series is an action-packed political thriller.
Hard Duty
takes readers from the United States to North Africa and the Middle East. While hoping for some rest and relaxation, Jon is contacted. The Central Intelligence Agency wants him to take on an ultra-high-risk mission where the United States has plausible deniability. A retired counterintelligence officer is about to sell state secrets to the Russians. Jon needs to stop him before the handover with only two people helping him. Additionally, they only have one week for their mission.
Reznick is a former military and a former covert operative who still does occasional work for the American alphabet agencies. He’s an excellent shot, highly intelligent, fearless, and tough. He’s a straight-talker, capable, resourceful, doesn’t easily share feelings, and can be a deadly killer.
This story has great pacing, a twisty and absorbing plot, and plenty of exciting scenes. It is well-plotted with unpredictable moments and challenges. Reznick and his team’s creativity to overcome the obstacles put in front of them was enjoyable to see. Themes include greed, power, morality, ethics, espionage, national security, accountability, and patriotism.
Overall, this high-octane thriller was entertaining, thought-provoking, and a powerful page-turner from start to finish. This is the thirteenth book in the Jon Reznick thriller series and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thomas and Mercer and JB Turner provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for October 03, 2024.
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My 4.34 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Reznick is a former military and a former covert operative who still does occasional work for the American alphabet agencies. He’s an excellent shot, highly intelligent, fearless, and tough. He’s a straight-talker, capable, resourceful, doesn’t easily share feelings, and can be a deadly killer.
This story has great pacing, a twisty and absorbing plot, and plenty of exciting scenes. It is well-plotted with unpredictable moments and challenges. Reznick and his team’s creativity to overcome the obstacles put in front of them was enjoyable to see. Themes include greed, power, morality, ethics, espionage, national security, accountability, and patriotism.
Overall, this high-octane thriller was entertaining, thought-provoking, and a powerful page-turner from start to finish. This is the thirteenth book in the Jon Reznick thriller series and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thomas and Mercer and JB Turner provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for October 03, 2024.
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My 4.34 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
October 20, 2024
One of my favourite authors, another author I am up to date with, well with Jon Reznick Books.
As always as good as ever, powerful action packed thriller, gripping, tense and for Reznick powerful opponents.
From bestselling author J. B. Turner comes a deadly mission for Jon Reznick—but when the target is a master of disinformation, finding him might be harder than killing him.
Black-ops specialist Jon Reznick is hoping for some well-earned down time under the Florida sun when he gets a surprise call from the CIA. An embittered US counterintelligence expert is about to sell a career’s worth of state secrets to the Russians, and the Agency wants Reznick to track him down.
With the spook holed up somewhere in the diplomatic cauldron of the Middle East, protected by highly trained Russian mercenaries, Reznick knows it’s almost certainly a suicide mission. But with tough Scot Mac McCafferty and cybersecurity genius Trevelle Williams to back him up, patriot Reznick is soon racing across the region in pursuit of the target.
Time is ticking and death is a strong possibility, but with stakes this high, for Jon Reznick there are no rules that can’t be broken…and failure is never an option.
Really clever, gripping, well paced thriller.
Five stars
As always as good as ever, powerful action packed thriller, gripping, tense and for Reznick powerful opponents.
From bestselling author J. B. Turner comes a deadly mission for Jon Reznick—but when the target is a master of disinformation, finding him might be harder than killing him.
Black-ops specialist Jon Reznick is hoping for some well-earned down time under the Florida sun when he gets a surprise call from the CIA. An embittered US counterintelligence expert is about to sell a career’s worth of state secrets to the Russians, and the Agency wants Reznick to track him down.
With the spook holed up somewhere in the diplomatic cauldron of the Middle East, protected by highly trained Russian mercenaries, Reznick knows it’s almost certainly a suicide mission. But with tough Scot Mac McCafferty and cybersecurity genius Trevelle Williams to back him up, patriot Reznick is soon racing across the region in pursuit of the target.
Time is ticking and death is a strong possibility, but with stakes this high, for Jon Reznick there are no rules that can’t be broken…and failure is never an option.
Really clever, gripping, well paced thriller.
Five stars
August 29, 2024
Jon Resnick is back with a bang in book 13 of this series which I absolutely love! Fran Petersen wants to know if Jon is available for an off the books job. Of course Jon is interested and ends up actually agreeing to this crazy plan. A US intelligence officer has turned and is selling secrets, Jon has to find him and kill him. However, if he gets caught it's nothing to do with the Government (of course it isn't) and they will deny all knowledge of any such operation.
Resnick decides he needs one other operator with him as well as the help of the hacker Trevelle. He also speaks to his Ex-SAS friend Mac who is just as crazy as Jon. Both Jon and Mac leave for their mission to be completed in one week. The book and storyline takes them to a variety of places in the middle east and as they expected the job is not an easy one.
This book was a real belter in my opinion. This is what Reznick does best and this book is high octane, lots of excitement and an absolute page turner. Another fabulous read by JB Turner
Resnick decides he needs one other operator with him as well as the help of the hacker Trevelle. He also speaks to his Ex-SAS friend Mac who is just as crazy as Jon. Both Jon and Mac leave for their mission to be completed in one week. The book and storyline takes them to a variety of places in the middle east and as they expected the job is not an easy one.
This book was a real belter in my opinion. This is what Reznick does best and this book is high octane, lots of excitement and an absolute page turner. Another fabulous read by JB Turner
October 8, 2024
I struggle with the lack of original ideas. In these books
I find the newer Jon Reznick books to have redundant plots. But I keep plugging along searching for more enjoyable story lines.
Books is worth the time but not as fresh as earlier stories
I find the newer Jon Reznick books to have redundant plots. But I keep plugging along searching for more enjoyable story lines.
Books is worth the time but not as fresh as earlier stories
July 4, 2025
4.5 Stars for me!
Another great story in this series even with some of the over the top action. For those upset with a bit of social commentary regarding the craziness of the 2020s... his opinions may be different than 9 out of 10 authors, but that is ok. If you demand that he align politically with you, that is a slippery slide towards fascism. I disagree with the political bent if many authors but if they are good writers, I look past it and enjoy their work. Don't let politics define your view of anyone.
Another great story in this series even with some of the over the top action. For those upset with a bit of social commentary regarding the craziness of the 2020s... his opinions may be different than 9 out of 10 authors, but that is ok. If you demand that he align politically with you, that is a slippery slide towards fascism. I disagree with the political bent if many authors but if they are good writers, I look past it and enjoy their work. Don't let politics define your view of anyone.
October 23, 2024
J.B. Turner’s Hard Duty, the 13th book in the Jon Reznick series, is a gripping continuation of the action-packed saga that fans have come to love. While it’s deep into the series, Turner makes it accessible enough for new readers, though long-time followers will appreciate the continued development of Reznick’s character and the high-octane thrills that have become a trademark of the series. This is my favorite of the series so far. And, one of the best characters from a previous book makes a prominent showing in this book.
The plot follows your favorite Dexedrine chewing Jon Reznick, a former black ops operative, as he takes on another dangerous mission that quickly spirals out of control. Reznick finds himself navigating shadowy enemies and moral dilemmas as the stakes rise higher than ever. While it's part of a longer series, Turner manages to keep the story fresh with new twists and challenges for Reznick, proving that even at book 13, there's no loss of momentum.
Genre Evaluation & Comparison:
In the military-thriller genre, Hard Duty holds its own. Turner’s signature style of balancing fast-paced action with deep character introspection continues to set this series apart from its competitors. Compared to similar long-running series like those by Vince Flynn or Lee Child, Turner shows a consistent ability to maintain high levels of tension and excitement without recycling old ideas. This installment lives up to the genre’s expectations while keeping the thrills fresh.
Character & Story Development:
Jon Reznick remains a compelling protagonist. Even by the 13th book, his internal struggles—especially his haunted past—keep him relatable and layered. Turner does a good job of continuing Reznick’s personal journey without letting the series grow stale. While some of the supporting characters serve as functional plot devices, Reznick’s arc drives the heart of the story, making him a character you want to keep rooting for.
Action & Plot:
As always, Turner delivers top-tier action. The book starts off fast and maintains its pace throughout, with plenty of shootouts, chases, and narrow escapes to keep adrenaline junkies satisfied. The plot is straightforward but keeps you engaged, with enough surprises to avoid predictability. While some parts may feel familiar to long-time readers of the genre, the intensity and pacing make sure you’re never bored. The ending leaves enough open to keep you wanting more but provides a satisfying conclusion to the current storyline.
Writing Style & Voice:
Turner’s writing remains sharp and efficient, ideal for the genre. His clear, concise prose moves the story along briskly, and while the dialogue can feel functional at times, it suits the action-driven plot. Reznick’s internal monologue gives the story its depth, grounding the fast-paced action in a character-driven narrative. The voice of the novel is consistent with the rest of the series, offering a blend of tension, grit, and emotional weight.
Final Thoughts:
Hard Duty shows that even after 12 previous books, the Jon Reznick series still has plenty of life left in it. This latest installment keeps the action intense, the stakes high, and the character development ongoing. It’s a solid read for fans of the series and the military-thriller genre.
Recommendation:
If you’re already invested in the Jon Reznick series, Hard Duty is another must-read that won’t disappoint. For new readers, it’s still a good jumping-on point, though diving into the earlier books would provide greater context. Fans of action-packed thrillers like those from Vince Flynn or Brad Thor will find plenty to enjoy here.
The plot follows your favorite Dexedrine chewing Jon Reznick, a former black ops operative, as he takes on another dangerous mission that quickly spirals out of control. Reznick finds himself navigating shadowy enemies and moral dilemmas as the stakes rise higher than ever. While it's part of a longer series, Turner manages to keep the story fresh with new twists and challenges for Reznick, proving that even at book 13, there's no loss of momentum.
Genre Evaluation & Comparison:
In the military-thriller genre, Hard Duty holds its own. Turner’s signature style of balancing fast-paced action with deep character introspection continues to set this series apart from its competitors. Compared to similar long-running series like those by Vince Flynn or Lee Child, Turner shows a consistent ability to maintain high levels of tension and excitement without recycling old ideas. This installment lives up to the genre’s expectations while keeping the thrills fresh.
Character & Story Development:
Jon Reznick remains a compelling protagonist. Even by the 13th book, his internal struggles—especially his haunted past—keep him relatable and layered. Turner does a good job of continuing Reznick’s personal journey without letting the series grow stale. While some of the supporting characters serve as functional plot devices, Reznick’s arc drives the heart of the story, making him a character you want to keep rooting for.
Action & Plot:
As always, Turner delivers top-tier action. The book starts off fast and maintains its pace throughout, with plenty of shootouts, chases, and narrow escapes to keep adrenaline junkies satisfied. The plot is straightforward but keeps you engaged, with enough surprises to avoid predictability. While some parts may feel familiar to long-time readers of the genre, the intensity and pacing make sure you’re never bored. The ending leaves enough open to keep you wanting more but provides a satisfying conclusion to the current storyline.
Writing Style & Voice:
Turner’s writing remains sharp and efficient, ideal for the genre. His clear, concise prose moves the story along briskly, and while the dialogue can feel functional at times, it suits the action-driven plot. Reznick’s internal monologue gives the story its depth, grounding the fast-paced action in a character-driven narrative. The voice of the novel is consistent with the rest of the series, offering a blend of tension, grit, and emotional weight.
Final Thoughts:
Hard Duty shows that even after 12 previous books, the Jon Reznick series still has plenty of life left in it. This latest installment keeps the action intense, the stakes high, and the character development ongoing. It’s a solid read for fans of the series and the military-thriller genre.
Recommendation:
If you’re already invested in the Jon Reznick series, Hard Duty is another must-read that won’t disappoint. For new readers, it’s still a good jumping-on point, though diving into the earlier books would provide greater context. Fans of action-packed thrillers like those from Vince Flynn or Brad Thor will find plenty to enjoy here.
November 3, 2024
I’ve been hooked on the Reznick series since book 1. This one had more societal and political musings to me than prior books. In a way not too surprising given it is more or less set in the current climate. Jon Reznick is asked to take on a black ops mission that reportedly Delta force has failed at and the chance of success is low. The mission is to assassinate a former operative who has turned, providing (or at least promising to provide) secrets to Russia that would endanger the lives of many agents. Not a new storyline but some of the nuances are new.
After the last book, I wondered what would become of Trevelle. He took the death (the how it came about) of his girlfriend really hard and seemed to withdraw into himself. We are treated to a Mac and Jon adventure with tech assistance from Trevelle. I did miss the interaction between Jon and his daughter Lauren, but she left on an assignment in Book 12 and is still away. We did not see any movement of the presumed-dead-turned-CIA-agent-in-hiding wife nor does Caroline Sullivan, former military turned reporter that Jon seemed to hit it off with.
In this book, Jon has a new female calling the shots (wonder if Martha will come back as an enemy after being fired as a result of Jon’s actions), Fran Petersen. She has come to Jon in what seems like a last ditch Hail Mary move. She has to deal with doubt from peers and boss, criticism from security experts and does her best to hold them all at bay.
Mac and Jon know they are on a bit of a suicide mission but do the job anyway. The job also gives Trevelle a chance to get back his confidence and get back to himself in general.
There is a lot of reflecting on the America of old and fear of what it might become in the future. Discussion of the geo-political landscape and the Ukrainian-Russian War. As always, thought provoking moments mixed into the high octane action. Overall, a good read.
Happy Reading!
After the last book, I wondered what would become of Trevelle. He took the death (the how it came about) of his girlfriend really hard and seemed to withdraw into himself. We are treated to a Mac and Jon adventure with tech assistance from Trevelle. I did miss the interaction between Jon and his daughter Lauren, but she left on an assignment in Book 12 and is still away. We did not see any movement of the presumed-dead-turned-CIA-agent-in-hiding wife nor does Caroline Sullivan, former military turned reporter that Jon seemed to hit it off with.
In this book, Jon has a new female calling the shots (wonder if Martha will come back as an enemy after being fired as a result of Jon’s actions), Fran Petersen. She has come to Jon in what seems like a last ditch Hail Mary move. She has to deal with doubt from peers and boss, criticism from security experts and does her best to hold them all at bay.
Mac and Jon know they are on a bit of a suicide mission but do the job anyway. The job also gives Trevelle a chance to get back his confidence and get back to himself in general.
There is a lot of reflecting on the America of old and fear of what it might become in the future. Discussion of the geo-political landscape and the Ukrainian-Russian War. As always, thought provoking moments mixed into the high octane action. Overall, a good read.
Happy Reading!
October 6, 2024
A definite must read book and series
This has been a fascinating series in which Jon Reznick always seems to pull off the impossible. Reznick is a true patriot, a man of honor, and is fiercely loyal to those he cares about. He's been labeled as a lone wolf, unstable, as well as numerous other things, none could be further from the truth. Ok, maybe the lone wolf could be a bit accurate. Lol! However, he still seems to be the one who everyone calls on when they're up against something beyond their capabilities, and yet, he's also the first one they always want to blame. Because of his upbringing, his careers, as well as his fierce love and loyalty to America, he always goes head first into the missions, no matter what the cost is, even to himself.
If only there were many more people like him in this crazy world.....
If you haven't already, I would highly recommend reading this entire series from the beginning. It is an action packed, suspenseful, and intriguing thriller series that will hook you from beginning to end!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
This has been a fascinating series in which Jon Reznick always seems to pull off the impossible. Reznick is a true patriot, a man of honor, and is fiercely loyal to those he cares about. He's been labeled as a lone wolf, unstable, as well as numerous other things, none could be further from the truth. Ok, maybe the lone wolf could be a bit accurate. Lol! However, he still seems to be the one who everyone calls on when they're up against something beyond their capabilities, and yet, he's also the first one they always want to blame. Because of his upbringing, his careers, as well as his fierce love and loyalty to America, he always goes head first into the missions, no matter what the cost is, even to himself.
If only there were many more people like him in this crazy world.....
If you haven't already, I would highly recommend reading this entire series from the beginning. It is an action packed, suspenseful, and intriguing thriller series that will hook you from beginning to end!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
September 2, 2024
This is a book that I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC copy from the author (J.B. Turner), his author (Thomas & Mercer), and the fine folks at NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is the thirteenth book of the series and Fran Petersen wants to know if Black ops specialist Jon Reznick is available for an off-the-books job. Black ops specialist Jon Reznick was hoping for some well-earned downtime under the Florida sun when he got a surprise call from the CIA. An embittered US counterintelligence expert is about to sell a career’s worth of state secrets to the Russians, and the Agency wants Reznick to track him down. Reznick is eager to track down the former intelligence chief, who has already made millions and millions through treachery by selling the names of intelligence agents and the dead drops that are being used to pass along information to the Americans throughout Europe
With the traitorous former spook holed up somewhere in the diplomatic cauldron of the Middle East, protected by highly trained Russian mercenaries (the infamous Wagner Group), Reznick knows it’s almost certainly a suicide mission. After previous failed attempts by larger Delta groups and Predator drones, the plan is put forth to try yet again with a smaller force of only three people.
Resnick decides he needs one other operator with him as well as the help of the cybersecurity genius Trevelle. He speaks to his ex-SAS friend Mac who is just as crazy as Jon. Both Jon and Mac leave for their mission to be completed in one week. However, if they get caught, the same government agency will deny all knowledge of any such operation. But with tough Scot Mac McCafferty and cybersecurity genius Trevelle Williams to back him up, patriot Reznick is soon racing across the region in pursuit of the target.
Time is ticking and death is a strong possibility, but with stakes this high, for Jon Reznick, there are no rules that can’t be broken…and failure is never an option.
This book is marketed towards fans of Vince Flynn, Lee Child, and Brad Thor while other reviews of the book claim that it is similar to Mark Greaney and David Baldacci. The book contains everything you expect from the genre. It has a lone-wolf main character with a shady background, a credible and interesting terrorist plot, and a lot of fighting, shooting, and explosions.
This is what Reznick does best and this book is high octane, lots of excitement and an absolute page turner. I would easily give this book a rating of a solid four stars out of five. This was a fabulous read by JB Turner.
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
This is the thirteenth book of the series and Fran Petersen wants to know if Black ops specialist Jon Reznick is available for an off-the-books job. Black ops specialist Jon Reznick was hoping for some well-earned downtime under the Florida sun when he got a surprise call from the CIA. An embittered US counterintelligence expert is about to sell a career’s worth of state secrets to the Russians, and the Agency wants Reznick to track him down. Reznick is eager to track down the former intelligence chief, who has already made millions and millions through treachery by selling the names of intelligence agents and the dead drops that are being used to pass along information to the Americans throughout Europe
With the traitorous former spook holed up somewhere in the diplomatic cauldron of the Middle East, protected by highly trained Russian mercenaries (the infamous Wagner Group), Reznick knows it’s almost certainly a suicide mission. After previous failed attempts by larger Delta groups and Predator drones, the plan is put forth to try yet again with a smaller force of only three people.
Resnick decides he needs one other operator with him as well as the help of the cybersecurity genius Trevelle. He speaks to his ex-SAS friend Mac who is just as crazy as Jon. Both Jon and Mac leave for their mission to be completed in one week. However, if they get caught, the same government agency will deny all knowledge of any such operation. But with tough Scot Mac McCafferty and cybersecurity genius Trevelle Williams to back him up, patriot Reznick is soon racing across the region in pursuit of the target.
Time is ticking and death is a strong possibility, but with stakes this high, for Jon Reznick, there are no rules that can’t be broken…and failure is never an option.
This book is marketed towards fans of Vince Flynn, Lee Child, and Brad Thor while other reviews of the book claim that it is similar to Mark Greaney and David Baldacci. The book contains everything you expect from the genre. It has a lone-wolf main character with a shady background, a credible and interesting terrorist plot, and a lot of fighting, shooting, and explosions.
This is what Reznick does best and this book is high octane, lots of excitement and an absolute page turner. I would easily give this book a rating of a solid four stars out of five. This was a fabulous read by JB Turner.
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
August 15, 2024
Jon Resnick gets a package at his home in Maine. The note says "We want to talk with you", and he opens the accompanying MacBook Air with his CIA credentials and sees middleaged woman Fran Petersen who had headed up the Directorate of Intellegence. She wants to know if he's available, and then says a plane will pick him up at the airport at 5am. When he interviews with her, she wants him to kill William Crenshaw, a rogue ex-counter intellegence expert who is giving secrets to the Russians and others. Resnick first goes to Florida to see his friend Trevelle who agrees to help with finding and tracking his target. He flies to Crete to sign up Ex-SAS Mac. David McCafferty to work with him. They have one week to do the job!
Together Jon and Mac travel around Egypt, Oman, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, etc. Crenshaw has a group of Russion bodyguards who keep him on the move and surrounded as well as the fact he is driven around in a bullet proof car. Crenshaw has been told they are after him, and Jon and Mac have their work cut out for them. Can they find Crenshaw and kill him before the week is up and he hands over all the papers and disappears for good.
This is a very exciting book (as are all the books in the series), and I had trouble putting it down. I thank Netgalley and Tomas and Mercer for the ARC so that I could read the book before publication.
Together Jon and Mac travel around Egypt, Oman, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, etc. Crenshaw has a group of Russion bodyguards who keep him on the move and surrounded as well as the fact he is driven around in a bullet proof car. Crenshaw has been told they are after him, and Jon and Mac have their work cut out for them. Can they find Crenshaw and kill him before the week is up and he hands over all the papers and disappears for good.
This is a very exciting book (as are all the books in the series), and I had trouble putting it down. I thank Netgalley and Tomas and Mercer for the ARC so that I could read the book before publication.
December 20, 2025
3.5 stars
A senior CIA executive has gone rogue, and is planning to sell a huge amount of highly sensitive information to enemy actors. To prevent the catastrophe that would result, this new Aldrich Ames must be stopped. Permanently.
There is a paper-thin justification for sending only Reznick and an old friend of his after the bad guy. So we get a team that is under resourced and too small that has to save the US intelligence apparatus. And of course, nobody in power has much backbone when things (inevitably) start to go wrong, regardless of the stated stakes.
For the first time in several books, this book is not tied directly to solving threats to Reznick's family. I suspect this was related to everyone having been threatened too often recently. But whatever the reason, it was a bit of a relief to get away from what is often a cheap attempt at emotional manipulation.
The mission was a bit chaotic, which is probably reasonable, given the limits to the protagonists' resources. But even if it was reasonable, it became a bit tedious to follow the good guys from city to city across the entire region. Some of the problems were unexpected, and the solution seemed too easy.
While this book did have its problems, it flowed well, and rather redeemed the more serious flaws of the previous book. There's not a lot of depth here, but what there is was fun to read.
A senior CIA executive has gone rogue, and is planning to sell a huge amount of highly sensitive information to enemy actors. To prevent the catastrophe that would result, this new Aldrich Ames must be stopped. Permanently.
There is a paper-thin justification for sending only Reznick and an old friend of his after the bad guy. So we get a team that is under resourced and too small that has to save the US intelligence apparatus. And of course, nobody in power has much backbone when things (inevitably) start to go wrong, regardless of the stated stakes.
For the first time in several books, this book is not tied directly to solving threats to Reznick's family. I suspect this was related to everyone having been threatened too often recently. But whatever the reason, it was a bit of a relief to get away from what is often a cheap attempt at emotional manipulation.
The mission was a bit chaotic, which is probably reasonable, given the limits to the protagonists' resources. But even if it was reasonable, it became a bit tedious to follow the good guys from city to city across the entire region. Some of the problems were unexpected, and the solution seemed too easy.
While this book did have its problems, it flowed well, and rather redeemed the more serious flaws of the previous book. There's not a lot of depth here, but what there is was fun to read.
September 24, 2024
I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Reznick having a package delivered. Upon open the package, he discovers a device and logs in. It connects him to the CIA. He is asked to attend a meeting with the CIA the next morning. Once he learns what it is about, a wild week is ahead.
He is to take care of a former intelligence officer who has retired and is now providing information to countries impacting the security of America. He can only have a team of two others and must complete the mission in one week. His two members are Mac, a Brit. and Trevelle to handle logistics. He is also to avoid collateral damage. The big issue for Reznick is to locate where he is at the present time since he doesn't stay in one place to long.
Reznick and Mac catch up with their target, but before they can do anything, he disappears once more. Somehow the Russians have found out about Reznick's mission and warned their target. The Russian then began pushing the former officer for the intelligence he promised/ Reznick and Mac were again able to locate, but once more unable to finish their mission. Finally, Trevelle found a way to track the target a a plan was put in place. Thir plan did not work out as they wanted, so they improvised.
To discover all of the locations Reznick and Mac had to visit to complete their mission, what they did in the end, what information was to be turned over and what eventually happened, then you need to read this book.
This story begins with Reznick having a package delivered. Upon open the package, he discovers a device and logs in. It connects him to the CIA. He is asked to attend a meeting with the CIA the next morning. Once he learns what it is about, a wild week is ahead.
He is to take care of a former intelligence officer who has retired and is now providing information to countries impacting the security of America. He can only have a team of two others and must complete the mission in one week. His two members are Mac, a Brit. and Trevelle to handle logistics. He is also to avoid collateral damage. The big issue for Reznick is to locate where he is at the present time since he doesn't stay in one place to long.
Reznick and Mac catch up with their target, but before they can do anything, he disappears once more. Somehow the Russians have found out about Reznick's mission and warned their target. The Russian then began pushing the former officer for the intelligence he promised/ Reznick and Mac were again able to locate, but once more unable to finish their mission. Finally, Trevelle found a way to track the target a a plan was put in place. Thir plan did not work out as they wanted, so they improvised.
To discover all of the locations Reznick and Mac had to visit to complete their mission, what they did in the end, what information was to be turned over and what eventually happened, then you need to read this book.
February 6, 2025
Jon Reznick doesn't make friends easily. It's tough in his line of work. He kills people. Bad ones. People like a former U.S. counterintelligence expert who found himself compromised by the Russians and ended up embracing the cold. In "Hard Duty," the 13th in the series by extraordinary author J.B. Turner, Reznick is called up by the CIA. He's done a lot of work for the FBI as a consultant but ruffled quite a few feathers of the top brass along the way. He's not one for taking much direction, especially from bureaucrats who often muck up a good operation. Reznick is a point and shoot type. Given a problem, he seeks solutions. The simpler the better. On this mission, he's given a bundle of money and very little time to take out a man who represents a massive security threat to the United States. The former operative is about to hand over intelligence that threatens a huge number of assets the agency uses to gather information. The operative feels betrayed. He's old, a member of the community from a bygone age. Yet, he's intensely dangerous. Somehow Reznick using only the talents of Mac McCafferty in the field and Trevelle Williams in the realm of cyber surveillance to aid him in his goal. Through much of the novel, it doesn't look good. The CIA mission is off book so if he fails, he's just some rogue killer. The stakes are high. But Reznick doesn't let the odds bother him.
October 20, 2024
Hard Duty by JB Turner is a hard hitting, non-stop roller coaster ride in the next installment of the John Reznick series. From Florida, to Africa, and the Middle East, Reznick and his friend Mac will stop at nothing to fulfill their objective; stopping a dangerous man from selling out to the highest bidder.
Jeffrey Kafer provides the narration for Hard Duty and does not disappoint! I listen to a jaw-dropping amount of audiobooks, but I had never heard of Mr Kafer before this book, but now I will be on the hunt for other books he has narrated. He’s very well versed in the different accents needed for this telling and made each character come to life, including the female character. He showed how truly talented he is in his field and that he sat down, took a breath, and never let up on the gas. Whoever picked him to narrate this book blew it out of the park.
Perfect for those who like Mark Greaney or Vince Flynn.
Thank you to @netgalley and @brillianceaudio for the opportunity to read this book in lieu of my honest review.
Jeffrey Kafer provides the narration for Hard Duty and does not disappoint! I listen to a jaw-dropping amount of audiobooks, but I had never heard of Mr Kafer before this book, but now I will be on the hunt for other books he has narrated. He’s very well versed in the different accents needed for this telling and made each character come to life, including the female character. He showed how truly talented he is in his field and that he sat down, took a breath, and never let up on the gas. Whoever picked him to narrate this book blew it out of the park.
Perfect for those who like Mark Greaney or Vince Flynn.
Thank you to @netgalley and @brillianceaudio for the opportunity to read this book in lieu of my honest review.
October 21, 2024
Hard Duty (Jon Reznick #13) by J. B. Turner
Narrated by Jeffrey Kafer
Publisher: Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers
Published: October 3, 2024
Hard Duty is the 13th book in the Jon Reznick series by J. B. Turner. I haven’t read the previous books yet, and I was able to enjoy this as standalone mystery.
I thought this was fascinating!!!! This was fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat. I was completely caught up in this book and couldn’t wait to see how it resolved. (And I feel like there’s still more to come!)
I will be diving in to the previous books really soon. Thanks to Kindle Unlimited I’ll be able to binge the whole series!
I really enjoyed the narration by Jeffrey Kafer. I thought he did a great job bringing this book to life!
I highly recommend reading Hard Duty!!! I can’ t wait for the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Narrated by Jeffrey Kafer
Publisher: Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers
Published: October 3, 2024
Hard Duty is the 13th book in the Jon Reznick series by J. B. Turner. I haven’t read the previous books yet, and I was able to enjoy this as standalone mystery.
I thought this was fascinating!!!! This was fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat. I was completely caught up in this book and couldn’t wait to see how it resolved. (And I feel like there’s still more to come!)
I will be diving in to the previous books really soon. Thanks to Kindle Unlimited I’ll be able to binge the whole series!
I really enjoyed the narration by Jeffrey Kafer. I thought he did a great job bringing this book to life!
I highly recommend reading Hard Duty!!! I can’ t wait for the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2024
Hard Duty by J.B. Turner is another thrilling installment in the Jon Reznick series. This fast-paced political thriller takes Reznick on a high-stakes mission to stop a former US counterintelligence officer from selling secrets to the Russians.
Alongside his trusted allies, Mac and Trevelle, Reznick races against time through the Middle East, facing dangerous Russian mercenaries at every turn.
The action is non-stop, with plenty of unexpected twists and challenges that kept me hooked. I loved how Reznick’s resourcefulness and toughness came through as he adapted to every situation. The pacing is excellent, and the plot is full of tension and excitement.
This is a thought-provoking yet action-packed read. If you enjoy nonstop fast paced thrillers, this one won’t disappoint.
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Alongside his trusted allies, Mac and Trevelle, Reznick races against time through the Middle East, facing dangerous Russian mercenaries at every turn.
The action is non-stop, with plenty of unexpected twists and challenges that kept me hooked. I loved how Reznick’s resourcefulness and toughness came through as he adapted to every situation. The pacing is excellent, and the plot is full of tension and excitement.
This is a thought-provoking yet action-packed read. If you enjoy nonstop fast paced thrillers, this one won’t disappoint.
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
October 19, 2024
I guess 13 is an unlucky number for Reznick! Definitely the worst yet of the Reznick stories, it seems like the author has just run out of original ideas but has decided to keep on writing books regardless. The subject is the biggest threat to national security ever, and yet just to drive the plot there is to be absolutely no collateral damage, not a single person, quite ridiculous but otherwise the dude could have been disposed of in the first fifty pages with a simple long range sniper shot. It just seems to be the author ranting about the state of America these days using the main subject to voice his views. And Reznick has turned into a nasty grumpy old man who treats his colleagues with utter disrespect, i think this will definitely be the last of this series I will read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2024
Thank you to NetGally for letting me get a sneak peak into this book. I got to listen to the audiobook.
Overall I would give this book a rating of 4.5 starts. I had to restart it twice because it was hard for me to get into but one I got into I could not put it down.
Reznick is a former military working in secret oops and secret intelligence o believe. He is later approached to help in a top secret mission, he ends up inviting two of his buddies who are extremely knowledgeable in their area of expertise. When facing new challenges to bring down a top former officer working with the Russians in giving top secret information, he is now seen as a traitor and must die.
Overall this is a really good book!
Overall I would give this book a rating of 4.5 starts. I had to restart it twice because it was hard for me to get into but one I got into I could not put it down.
Reznick is a former military working in secret oops and secret intelligence o believe. He is later approached to help in a top secret mission, he ends up inviting two of his buddies who are extremely knowledgeable in their area of expertise. When facing new challenges to bring down a top former officer working with the Russians in giving top secret information, he is now seen as a traitor and must die.
Overall this is a really good book!
September 26, 2024
Hard Duty is the 13th instalment in the Jon Reznick series, about a former Delta operative turned CIA assassin. The books are all stand-alone adventures so don’t need to be read in order, although I have read them all, and this one sees Jon moving in a new direction after severing his ties to the FBI after the events of the last book. It’s another fast paced action thriller that sees Jon travel to the Middle East on the hunt for an elderly spy turned traitor, who has to be eliminated in the name of “National Security.” I enjoyed it although found the plot was rather predictable and repetitive, and I was hoping for more of a twist. I had mixed feelings about our hero being sent to murder an old man in cold blood - no matter what his crimes. I also missed Martha. It won’t put me off continuing the series but I’m hoping Jon returns to the FBI soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC. Hard Duty is published on October 3rd.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC. Hard Duty is published on October 3rd.
October 14, 2024
This is the first in the Jon Reznick series I’ve read. While I’m sure I would have known more backstory having read the others it didn’t impact my enjoyment of the book.
This was an action packed story about former black ops specialist Jon Reznick getting pulled in for an off the books mission to kill a former US intelligence offer who’s selling classified secrets. The story takes you from the US to Africa & the Middle East and I enjoyed every minute.
I look forward to reading more by J.B. Turner. He’s earned a new fan in me. I must mention the excellent narration by Jeffrey Kafer.
Thank you to NetGalley & Brilliance Audio for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was an action packed story about former black ops specialist Jon Reznick getting pulled in for an off the books mission to kill a former US intelligence offer who’s selling classified secrets. The story takes you from the US to Africa & the Middle East and I enjoyed every minute.
I look forward to reading more by J.B. Turner. He’s earned a new fan in me. I must mention the excellent narration by Jeffrey Kafer.
Thank you to NetGalley & Brilliance Audio for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 24, 2024
Get a Load of This - Sign on a Cement Mixer
This was, incredibly, a tremendous story! I finished it in record time. Getting towards the end I had to stop reading for a while because my heart was beating SO FAST!!! Love Mac! He is “larger than life” and didn’t need convincing to do the right thing! I’m so glad he made it! I also love the mix of our current state of affairs popping up in the mix! Great job putting conservative values into the storyline! We need everyone to remember what is worth fighting for! America! Thank you JB. I can’t believe how great a story teller you are. Facts and figures but never boredom! That’s for sure!
This was, incredibly, a tremendous story! I finished it in record time. Getting towards the end I had to stop reading for a while because my heart was beating SO FAST!!! Love Mac! He is “larger than life” and didn’t need convincing to do the right thing! I’m so glad he made it! I also love the mix of our current state of affairs popping up in the mix! Great job putting conservative values into the storyline! We need everyone to remember what is worth fighting for! America! Thank you JB. I can’t believe how great a story teller you are. Facts and figures but never boredom! That’s for sure!
July 31, 2025
It has been a little while since a read a Jon Reznick book. I saw 2 new ones had been published so decided to catch up on what Jon had been up to. In this book Jon and his Scottish friend Mac are asked by the CIA to fly to the Middle East to take out a former American agent, who turned rogue and started selling secrets to the Russians. The target has 24/7 protection from the Russians. Jon and Mac have to devise a plan to take him out. Chasing round the Middle East after their prey, they get into various scrapes before achieving their objective.
I have liked all the other Jon Reznick books, and I enjoyed this one too.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
I have liked all the other Jon Reznick books, and I enjoyed this one too.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
November 25, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review
This suprised me it was so good. Usually I have to love the characters for the book to be good, but this one I didn’t get too attached. I liked them a bit but only as much as I’d care for a stranger. But the actual plot was soooo interesting, I loved the countries we got to explore and all of the fun tracking. It was so suspenseful and I was so curious how it would be done. Really good job, I’m going to read this again 100%
This suprised me it was so good. Usually I have to love the characters for the book to be good, but this one I didn’t get too attached. I liked them a bit but only as much as I’d care for a stranger. But the actual plot was soooo interesting, I loved the countries we got to explore and all of the fun tracking. It was so suspenseful and I was so curious how it would be done. Really good job, I’m going to read this again 100%
August 4, 2024
Jon gets recruited to perform the impossible. He is to kill an American traitor before he releases critical information to the Russians. He has a week to do it, and he can only have a three-man crew. With his prey alerted, and always one step ahead, Jon and Mac are kept globe hopping as their stay-at-home techie provides clues and time runs short. I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.
October 11, 2024
Jon ends up taking quite the job in this one. He has little time to make it happen and can only work with 2 other people. It seems like it's insurmountable. At times it seemed like a game of cat and mouse and you weren't sure who was going to win. But with an ingenious idea, they were able to trick the bad guy and do what was needed. The job done and Jon and his crew earning accolades from those in the know.
November 14, 2024
Odd when you're rooting for the main character to assassinate someone
I received this book through the goodreads giveaway program.
Actually not my preferred type of thriller, so this one kept on the back burner awhile.
The main character comes out of semi retirement to take out an American before he sells secrets to another country.
He enlists the help of Two others who assist in the mission, but they keep hitting snags in their plans.
I received this book through the goodreads giveaway program.
Actually not my preferred type of thriller, so this one kept on the back burner awhile.
The main character comes out of semi retirement to take out an American before he sells secrets to another country.
He enlists the help of Two others who assist in the mission, but they keep hitting snags in their plans.
December 4, 2024
Jon is requested to take an assignment where others has failed...and he has only one week to complete the mission.
This is not the only hard constraint for him, this is a black operation and he will have no support but just from 2 other operators he can choose.
With only a three people team, they need to track a former counterintelligence agent across middle east.
This book will keep you looking for the next page to check how all the situation goes.
This is not the only hard constraint for him, this is a black operation and he will have no support but just from 2 other operators he can choose.
With only a three people team, they need to track a former counterintelligence agent across middle east.
This book will keep you looking for the next page to check how all the situation goes.
August 5, 2025
The best ever Jon Reznik saga
Well what can I say, this book was riveting. Without giving away any spoilers. As I read it , my thoughts were , will they , wont they, right the way through. It spurred me on to try to read faster and faster because I was just wanting all of the intel as quick as I could digest it. I would definitely say this had been the best story yet. I enjoyed them all but not as much as this one.
Well what can I say, this book was riveting. Without giving away any spoilers. As I read it , my thoughts were , will they , wont they, right the way through. It spurred me on to try to read faster and faster because I was just wanting all of the intel as quick as I could digest it. I would definitely say this had been the best story yet. I enjoyed them all but not as much as this one.
October 4, 2024
A high octane spy thriller that keeps you hooked till the end. Plenty of action and intrigue. Good characters I especially liked Mac. Jon & Mac travel around the middle east after a traitor before he disappears for good. This is my first Jon Resnick book I'll have to read the other 12 books. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for this review ARC.
October 7, 2024
Started off pretty good with Reznick & Company accepting the challenge and getting into action, Then in the middle it got overly wordy with a lot of garbage on a guy named Crenshaw. Sloughing through we get to an impossible event happening; no way a cement truck fits in a parking garage! Anyway not the thriller I was expecting. At best a 4 but I make it out to 3.8
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