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Spurdogs

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"Bad to worse" doesn't even begin to cover it. In the aftermath of yet another botched drug deal, Bryan Wattson wants rid of the a quick deal, a weight off his mind, and no questions asked. But when it turns out that Sovereign City's finest were not sitting idly while he built up his new empire, Bryan is captured and extorted into cleaning up the worst that the city has to a ruthless criminal gang that calls themselves the Spurdogs. Cut off from his friends and with grave consequences should one side find out about the other, Bryan must balance his loyalties between a remorseless officer, an unhinged psychopath and his own decaying morality.

361 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 13, 2024

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Matthew Slater

20 books18 followers

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah Jacobson.
Author 10 books28 followers
August 23, 2024
This author is one to watch!

This author is one to watch! Spurdogs is the sequel to The Escape and carries on a short time after. Bryan is set on revenge, and seems to be on the road straight back to jail. However, he is instead forced to join the Spurdogs to help bring it down from the inside.
This book is gritty, dark, violent, and at times amusing. The authors writing is gripping and leaves you determined to turn each page. I will be keeping an eye out for more by the this author. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Lucas W Mayberry.
Author 3 books35 followers
July 19, 2024
A Sensational Sequel - The humour, the violence, the gore and the drama ups the ante in this sensational sequel to The Escape. Picking up about a week or two from the ending of The Escape, Bryan Watson is recovering. He’s still planning on taking revenge on Tony, the man who is now living in his mansion. But that all takes a back seat when Yeasel, a sadistic colonel of Sovereign City’s police force, forces him into an uncover mission to infiltrate a criminal gang called The Spurdogs where he has to get close to the equally sadistic and crazy leader, Thresher. Feeling all alone, Bryan has to steal and murder and faces gruesome torture. But he is well and truly stuck between a rock and a hard place. If he succeeds, Yeasel will likely send him back to jail. If he fails, Thresher will likely kill him. So it’s all set for a rather dramatic and action packed ending. I throughly enjoyed reading this. The action was thrilling and raced along at 100 miles per hour. The characters were very developed and believable. The characters of Thresher and his sister Chasma were particularly scary. I definitely would not want to meet either of them in a dark alley. Judging from the cliffhanger ending there may be a third book in the works which I cannot wait to read.
Profile Image for Marcia Clayton.
Author 7 books54 followers
June 8, 2024
Now that he’s out of jail once more, Bryan is keen to seek revenge on his previous friend, Tony. However, things don’t quite work out as planned, and when a drug deal goes wrong, it seems Bryan could be heading back to serve more time. However, a cop has other plans for Bryan, and he’s not taking no for an answer. Bryan is forced to become a member of the notorious Spurdogs gang and attempt to bring it down. He finds himself cut off from his friends and risking danger should one side find out about the other. With some gruesome scenes of violence and brutality, this book is not for the faint-hearted, though there is a little humour. I found this to be a gripping and well written novel, though a little too much violence for me.
Profile Image for Amanda Sheridan.
Author 8 books170 followers
March 1, 2025
Spurdogs by Matthew Slater is the sequel to The Escape and it is set up shortly after the end of the first book. After his escape from prison, Bryan has picked up the pieces of his old, criminal life. Naturally, the deal he's involved in goes wrong and he is recaptured by the police. But this time he’s not going back to jail—they want him to work for them.
It's deep and dark. There’s a lot of violence and none of the characters are likeable—they’re not supposed to be likeable—but it’s an excellent book all the same. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Cara Silver.
Author 2 books79 followers
May 27, 2024
Graphic Thriller

After reading Escape, I was eagerly waiting for the continuation of Bryan’s story. He’s out for revenge and is definitely in the middle of some crazy situations. The humor in the story makes it just a tad lighter, considering how graphic it is. I really enjoyed reading it.
41 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2024
Coincidence of coincidences … this sequel was published – out of the blue – less than one week after I posted my review of ‘The Escape’, the first book in the series. Although I didn’t say it in my review, I had wondered if the author had had second thoughts about continuing the series, given that the first book was published more than three years ago. But my suspicions were ill-founded. So, of course, I had to buy the new book.

And I’m glad I did. I think it’s even better than the first book: more believable factually, and with more shades of grey in the characterisation. But it’s retained the gory violence which was such a feature of the first book, and which may turn some readers off.

One small thing I noticed was to do with the setting of the fictional Sovereign City. In my review of ‘The Escape’, I had said that – as far as I could tell – the city wasn’t expressly stated to be in the USA (although it was clearly very ‘American’). In this book, it very definitely is located in the USA, even though there is no indication of where, and in practice it does seem to operate in its own self-contained world like a kind of mini-state.

My main reservation about the first book was that the characters were generally all so unpleasant that I didn’t really mind if anything bad happened to them. I wonder if others had given similar feedback, because there is a definite positive change in this book in the portrayal of Bryan Wattson, the main character who is blackmailed by a police officer into infiltrating an organised crime family. Yes, of course Bryan is still a bad guy. Someone whose first remark after killing somebody is to say that he wished the victim hadn’t broken down and begged for his life because it made him feel “all gross”. But this time, Bryan is sucked into a world of criminals who are more depraved and ruthless than he is, so in comparison he becomes someone for whom you can feel some sympathy. For example, when to his dismay he is asked to demonstrate his loyalty to the gang boss by killing someone who has only ever been good to him. Or when he feels physically sick after he and another gang member have to manhandle an elderly couple who are unable to afford the protection money they owe.

There is also a bit more humour than I remember from the first book. Black humour, for instance, when Bryan, once a criminal kingpin, now has to learn the ropes about operating on the bottom rung of a protection racket. (Although I did query his surprise when he finds out that the bad guys are providing protection against their own gang – isn’t that how most protection rackets work?!) There is also some memorable chuckle-out-loud humour, such as when Bryan thinks his new shark-themed gang nickname will be a “take-no-shit badass” name such as Hammerhead … only to discover that he’s been named Gurry instead. I also liked Bryan’s casual, bantering relationships with his apartment receptionist and his journalist employee … although there is more to one of this relationships than initially meets the eye.

A gripping read, therefore, which I devoured in a couple of sittings. I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. But the same caveat applies as with the first book, namely that you really do need to enjoy this type of thing. If prolonged descriptions of torture aren’t for you, you may do better to look elsewhere.

And will there be a third book? Well, I don’t want to give too much away …. but if there is, please don’t make us wait another three years.
199 reviews9 followers
October 26, 2024
Great Enjoyable Read


I borrowed (Kindle Unlimited account) and read Spurdogs (Sovereign City Saga Book 2) and found it to be an exhilarating continuation of Bryan Wattson's as a themed chaotic and dangerous journey. I liked how the story is full of action, keeping me on the edge of my seat from the start. I liked how Matthew Slater has a knack for writing gripping crime thrillers that blend violence, humor, and gritty realism in a way that makes the narrative flow effortlessly.

I appreciated the complex character dynamics, especially Bryan's struggle to balance his loyalty between corrupt cops, ruthless gang members, and his own crumbling sense of morality. I also was keen to read about his internal conflicts make him a relatable anti-hero, even in a world filled with unsavory characters. IMHO - the author doesn't shy away from graphic details, and while the violence may not be for the faint-hearted, it adds depth and urgency to the story.

One thing I found refreshing was the dry humor scattered throughout the book. To my mind, this lightened the intensity at just the right moments, making it easier to digest the brutal reality of gang life. I appreciated Slater’s use of witty one-liners and sarcasm helps bring the characters to life in a more vivid way, showcasing their emotions and personalities.

Overall, I really enjoyed this red and liked it for its fast-paced, tension-filled plot and well-developed characters. I would say it's a great read for fans of crime thrillers who appreciate detailed writing, moral dilemmas, and a dash of humor. For anyone who enjoyed the first book in the series; do not stop…
196 reviews5 followers
July 16, 2024
"Spurdogs" is a gripping sequel that keeps the excitement rolling from the first book, "The Escape." In this book, Bryan finds himself in deeper trouble after a failed drug deal. Captured by the police, he is forced to infiltrate a ruthless gang known as the Spurdogs. Isolated from his allies and balancing between a harsh officer and a dangerous psychopath, he navigates his loyalties while battling his own moral decline. The author has crafted a dark, intense narrative set in the fictional Sovereign City, which feels distinctly American. The story is filled with suspense, action, and brutal violence, creating a thrilling reading experience for those who enjoy gritty crime tales. Despite the grim circumstances, the book contains moments of dark humor, adding depth to the characters and situations. The story is suspenseful and gets you hooked, eager to see what will happen next to Bryan. The graphic descriptions might not be for everyone, but fans of the genre will appreciate the detailed, fast-paced storytelling. Overall, it's a compelling read, particularly for crime and thriller enthusiasts.
105 reviews1 follower
May 8, 2024
What I like when I read crime novels is to focus on the psychology of characters. In Spurdogs, the main protagonist is forced to infiltrate a criminal gang. As soon as you witness this situation, you understand that the lines between right and wrong are already blurred.

The "characterization" is rather complex. It goes deep in the psyche of the protagonist with a focus on moral, inner conflict. There is no doubt he has criminal tendencies, yet you'll feel empathy for him, especially when he faces hard choices testing his morality.

The writing style is quite descriptive with the underworld of Sovereign City, and you feel immersed in a world full of violence and intrigue.

The narrative also comes with dark humor and sarcasm, mixed with crime and violence.

At last the, plot provides enough suspense and unfolds in fast-paced from start to finish. Each twist and turn brings the main character closer to danger, which adds up to a successful climax.
Profile Image for Katherine Black.
Author 32 books120 followers
July 19, 2024
This is the second book I’ve read by this author. The first one was brilliant, and this is even better. The writing is strong, clean and deliberate. The author is confident in his style and knows his story and characters well enough that we don’t want them knocking on our door.


It's a tense thriller that takes the reader back to Sovereign City. Bryan Wattson is on his way to prison, but instead of facing a sentence, he’s persuaded to get inside and dismantle the Spurdogs gang. The plot twists make it a hell of a read. It’s gritty and all too realistic.


After, The Escape, the character development in Spurdogs has taken the players up a notch. We know them and the different facets of their personalities. The tension is well managed and is kept on a short rein until just the right moment as every decision could lead to death.


A masterful blend of action and psychological depth drives the story, making this a must-read for fans of urban gangland crime thrillers.
Profile Image for James Parker.
Author 11 books25 followers
August 11, 2024
"Spurdogs" by Matthew Slater is a captivating read that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the intricacies of life and adventure. From the very first page, Slater's storytelling and character development had me hooked, making it a difficult book to put down. The plot is well written and blends suspense with moments of genuine emotion that kept me entertained. Slater’s ability to create real life characters, each having their own flaws and strengths, adds depth to the plot. I found myself rooting for them as they navigated their challenges, facing both personal and external conflicts. The writing is effective and engaging, with a narrative style that is both accessible and profound. The story line resonates well beyond the pages, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences. The dialogue is authentic, making each character feel real and memorable. Spurdogs is a well written book the displays Slater's story telling ability and I think a lot of people will like reading it.
Profile Image for Wes Hubert.
Author 12 books2 followers
May 26, 2025
In a break from the typical crime thriller, the main character is a criminal, forced to work for the police, not really sure whose side he’s on. Though he’s no angel, you can help but empathize with him as he’s caught between a rock and a hard place. The stakes are high for him and never really lessen as the story goes from mishap to misstep. I liked the pacing of the book and also that it didn’t expect the main character to hold to some high ethical standard. It seemed more real this way. There are twists and turns, but never so severe that it throws the plot off. The action scenes are well written. Because the main character is caught between a rock and a hard place with no clear way out, it kept me interested right to the end. There is an underlying story line that sets things up nicely for a second book.
Profile Image for Onia Fox.
135 reviews14 followers
July 31, 2024
Spurdogs is the sequel to Escape by Matthew Slater. We follow the tribulations of some rather unsavoury gangsters as they battle similarly unsavoury law enforcement officers in the near dystopian city of Sovereign.
I can’t warm to the main character Bryan; in my view he receives exactly what he deserves. But I can imagine that he and others are dealt cards which they have to own and play with. That said, there are gruesome results of his, and their, actions.
Escape was good. Spurdogs is dead good, and possibly more psychological and a little deeper.
If you like your dystopians gothic, then you’ll love these. Read in order.
252 reviews6 followers
September 27, 2024
In Spurdogs (Sovereign City Saga Book 2) author Matthew Slater delves into the life of Bryan Watson after he escapes prison.
The author has vividly captured the need for Bryan to get revenge from the one who betrayed him.
The book has looked deeply into the psychological aspects of its protagonist as he battles moral dilemmas and how he takes decisions in tricky situations. The odds stacked against Bryan looks intimidating but at the same time makes the readers curious.
The book goes deep into the world of crime and criminals, hence its not advisable for teenagers. However for those adults who love dark stories and the thrill it brings, this book will be a rewarding read.
237 reviews14 followers
January 27, 2025
Fantastic and Thrilling

Spurdogs is a fast paced action/crime thriller with an exciting, plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat and a fantastic MC, who you can’t help but root for even though he isn’t exactly a good guy.
Poor Bryan Wattson’s luck has seriously run out, and he finds himself between a rock and a hard place when a cop from his past forces him to infiltrate a notorious gang. Things quickly go from bad to worse and Bryan doesn’t know which way to turn.
This is a sequel to the book The Escape, but don’t worry if you haven’t read the first book, this one can be enjoyed by itself.
3 reviews
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September 24, 2024
Spurdogs by Matthew Slater is a gritty, intense sequel that pulls no punches. After a botched drug deal, Bryan Wattson is forced into an undercover mission to infiltrate a brutal gang, the Spurdogs. Caught between a sadistic cop and a ruthless gang leader, Bryan's moral compass decays as he navigates violence, betrayal, and survival. The story is fast-paced, filled with dark humor, and brutally graphic, which might not be for everyone. But if you're into intense crime thrillers with complex characters and a lot of action, this one’s a thrilling ride!
Profile Image for Tracey Gerrard.
Author 10 books70 followers
June 16, 2024
Well worth the wait for this sequel.
Bryan is out and out for revenge. But will he be out for long? After a deal goes badly wrong, he has no alternative but to agree to what the police want him to do. If he’s to stay out of the big house he must infiltrate the famous drug gang, Spurdogs, which is no plain sailing.
This story is very well written with descriptive scenes of violence and danger at every turn.
Gripping read!!!
Profile Image for P.G.R. G. R.  Wright.
Author 8 books31 followers
May 17, 2025
Stunning

So this gripping story continues from the first and Bryan has escaped from prison and he's out for revenge. He has got his life back together but he finds himself in trouble and ends up helping the police. So much goes on in this story, from violence to humour it really keeps you on the edge to see how Bryan copes with the pressure of the underworld. Highly recommended criminal thriller.
Profile Image for Chloe Dubisch.
292 reviews8 followers
May 25, 2025
A riveting sequel

I should say right up front that I didn’t read the first book, but this book catches you up pretty quickly.
Bryan is out of prison and finds himself forced to go under cover in The Spurdogs, a notorious and pretty evil gang. The book definitely keeps you engaged, however as a warning for the reader, scenes of torture are thoroughly described. A great book for the right reader.
Profile Image for S.S. Saywack.
Author 9 books35 followers
January 18, 2025
A long-awaited sequel to The Escape, is as good as before. Action-packed, it races along, in much the same way as the first book. It is a well-written story, with very descriptive violence, it is very dark and edgy. In this exciting sequel, there are many surprises, and we are set up for book three. If you like a dark thriller, then this is recommended.
9 reviews
October 7, 2024
This is 2nd Book by Matthew. The protagonist Brian who is handling the Mafia world with his toughness has now more to face as his friends deceive him. The book gets more darker but for sure interesting too.
56 reviews4 followers
October 5, 2024
A dark urban crime thriller

Nobody would envy the situation Bryan Wattson manages to wind himself up in, being made to do jobs that only the most hardened of souls would ever manage to indulge in. It’s hard for the audience not to feel some sympathy for him to a degree but there’s enough to want to root for him to make it out alive. A very macabre but gritting crime underworld tale
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 16 books81 followers
May 15, 2024
Jail break behind him, it's back to business as usual for Bryan, with revenge on ex-friend Tony high on his agenda. Things don't go to plan however, and he's busted by old adversary Yeasel when a drug deal goes south. Back to the big house? No.

Bryan gets an—arguably—lucky break, in that the cop has other plans for him--and he's not taking no for an answer. Infiltrate the notorious Spurdogs gang—which has gained a vice-like grip on the city—and help bring it down. Bryan has no choice but to let himself become a gang member, answerable to the leader, Thresher, to do his bidding without question or face mortal consequences.

There are few if any likeable characters in this bleak story of life on the sordid side of the tracks. There are a few minor 'honest citizens' present, but they make no dent in a narrative where even the forces of good are rotten. It’s obvious that Bryan has no choice but to do as bidden by Yeasel, but had he not been deep in criminal activity in the first place he wouldn’t be in this position. Women are in the minority too, with the notable exceptions of sociopath Thresher’s psychopath sister and Robin the journalist, with whom romance could be an option for Bryan—but he’s under no illusions that in the main she’s in it for the exclusive headline-grabbing story she can get out of him.

As with The Escape there’s drugs, guns and an ocean of gore, with some particularly nasty violence. Sovereign City feels rather like Gotham City, but without Batman—and I don’t see him putting in an appearance anytime soon.

 
522 reviews27 followers
July 18, 2024
A long awaited SEQUEL, but WOW!

Life is never easy for Bryan Wattson as he now finds himself planted inside a ruthless gang, working on both sides of the law but with the ultimate goal of rebuilding his empire.
With greusome scenes of violence, brutality and gore, this criminal thriller, written in British English, is not for the faint hearted. The graphic, descriptive style of Slater's writing makes each scene clearly visible in your minds eye and puts you in the heart of the action. The story is peppered with 'one liners' that bring some light relief to the unfolding mayhem and literary sarcasm, which, devoid of actual facial expressions or body language, shows how this writer can portray the temper, mood or tone of his characters to the readers. The story takes a different path from Book one, which
was unexpected but totally captivating and the suspense and intrigue keeps you hooked and holds your attention throughout. A gripping, fast paced thriller, this 2nd book in the series was well worth waiting for. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

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