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Garrett Mann #2
A Hired Kill
A serial killer draws an FBI agent into an explosive government conspiracy in a white-knuckle thriller by Steven Konkoly, the USA Today bestselling author of A Clean Kill.
After FBI special agent Garrett Mann executes a deadly raid on an underground facility in New Mexico, the sole survivor’s testimony reveals a greater threat to come.
The covert lair was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios, who have since disappeared into the US, their ultimate mission still unknown. When another FBI raid goes catastrophically wrong, Mann finds himself on the trail of the Bureau’s original target—a moonlighting serial killer who leads the agent into a nightmare that’s darker and more extensive than Mann ever feared.
As Mann and his team hunt their fugitive, they find he could have deep ties to powerful government officials. But even as the list of people Mann trusts grows smaller, he must find the killer and blow the heart of this conspiracy wide open before more lives are lost.
After FBI special agent Garrett Mann executes a deadly raid on an underground facility in New Mexico, the sole survivor’s testimony reveals a greater threat to come.
The covert lair was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios, who have since disappeared into the US, their ultimate mission still unknown. When another FBI raid goes catastrophically wrong, Mann finds himself on the trail of the Bureau’s original target—a moonlighting serial killer who leads the agent into a nightmare that’s darker and more extensive than Mann ever feared.
As Mann and his team hunt their fugitive, they find he could have deep ties to powerful government officials. But even as the list of people Mann trusts grows smaller, he must find the killer and blow the heart of this conspiracy wide open before more lives are lost.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2025
1016 people are currently reading
3020 people want to read
About the author
Steven Konkoly
70 books1,229 followersSteven graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1993, receiving a bachelor of science in English literature. He served the next eight years on active duty, traveling the world as a naval officer assigned to various Navy and Marine Corps units. His extensive journey spanned the globe, including a two-year tour of duty in Japan and travel to more than twenty countries throughout Asia and the Middle East.
From enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq as a maritime boarding officer in the Arabian Gulf, to directing aircraft bombing runs and naval gunfire strikes as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) assigned to a specialized Marine Corps unit, Steven's "in-house" experience with a wide range of regular and elite military units brings a unique authenticity to his thrillers.
He still wakes up at "zero dark thirty" to write for most of the day. When "off duty," he spends as much time as possible outdoors or travelling with his family--and dog.
Steven is the bestselling author of ten novels and several novellas, including a commissioned trilogy of novellas based on the popular Wayward Pines series. His canon of work includes the popular Black Flagged Series, a gritty, no-holds barred covert operations and espionage saga; The Perseid Collapse series, a post-apocalyptic thriller epic chronicling the events surrounding an inconceivable attack on the United States; and The Fractured State series, a near future, dystopian thriller trilogy set in the drought ravaged southwest
You can contact Steven directly by email (stevekonkoly@striblingmedia.com) or through his blog (www.stevenkonkoly.com).
From enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq as a maritime boarding officer in the Arabian Gulf, to directing aircraft bombing runs and naval gunfire strikes as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) assigned to a specialized Marine Corps unit, Steven's "in-house" experience with a wide range of regular and elite military units brings a unique authenticity to his thrillers.
He still wakes up at "zero dark thirty" to write for most of the day. When "off duty," he spends as much time as possible outdoors or travelling with his family--and dog.
Steven is the bestselling author of ten novels and several novellas, including a commissioned trilogy of novellas based on the popular Wayward Pines series. His canon of work includes the popular Black Flagged Series, a gritty, no-holds barred covert operations and espionage saga; The Perseid Collapse series, a post-apocalyptic thriller epic chronicling the events surrounding an inconceivable attack on the United States; and The Fractured State series, a near future, dystopian thriller trilogy set in the drought ravaged southwest
You can contact Steven directly by email (stevekonkoly@striblingmedia.com) or through his blog (www.stevenkonkoly.com).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
May 17, 2025
Suspense, action, memorable characters, and a sense of urgency make
A Hired Kill
by Steven Konkoly a must-read for those who enjoy thrillers. This book picks up immediately after book one in the Garrett Mann series. After FBI Special Agent Mann and his team raid an underground facility in New Mexico, the sole survivor they found reveals there’s an even greater threat. It was the training ground for hundreds of cartel gunmen who have disappeared into the United States. Their mission is unknown. Additionally, Mann and his team are still hunting the last one of three serial killers who have killed extensively in Mexico and the USA. However, there’s more to that story than a single fugitive. There seems to be a tie to powerful government officials.
Garrett doesn’t always share information with others. However, he works well with others to gain cooperation and sometimes shows a somewhat dry and sarcastic sense of humor. Sometimes they come across as insults to those not used to his brand of humor. His flaws make him seem more realistic and relatable. I particularly enjoyed his independent thinking and willingness to listen to recommendations from others. The secondary and tertiary characters have varying levels of depth, but I wanted a little more. There are a lot of characters in this novel, but many of them were also in book one and some others are familiar characters from other series by this author. However, a much-needed character list is not provided for those who are new to this series.
This book starts strong and keeps up a blistering pace throughout the novel. However, I feel that those who haven’t read book one will be somewhat lost, as no recap is provided. I was hooked from the beginning with a plot that has several twists and turns along the way. While the action is over-the-top, it was so full of excitement, drama, and danger that I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. At the same time, it was somewhat unsettling when you examine the thoughts, behaviors, and actions of many of those in power. I believe a list of acronyms would be valuable for many readers.
Konkoly continues to bring great characters, an intriguing plot, and heart-pounding action together in exhilarating novels. The gripping scenes and great plot kept me on the edge of my seat. He has become one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading more from him.
Overall, this book was intense, suspenseful, action-packed and violent with compelling characters, high-stakes, and a story that is unsettling, gripping, and thought-provoking. If you enjoy thrillers, then look no further than this series. I’m looking forward to reading book three. I highly recommend reading book one before reading this one.
Thomas and Mercer and Steven Konkoly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 27, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.32 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Garrett doesn’t always share information with others. However, he works well with others to gain cooperation and sometimes shows a somewhat dry and sarcastic sense of humor. Sometimes they come across as insults to those not used to his brand of humor. His flaws make him seem more realistic and relatable. I particularly enjoyed his independent thinking and willingness to listen to recommendations from others. The secondary and tertiary characters have varying levels of depth, but I wanted a little more. There are a lot of characters in this novel, but many of them were also in book one and some others are familiar characters from other series by this author. However, a much-needed character list is not provided for those who are new to this series.
This book starts strong and keeps up a blistering pace throughout the novel. However, I feel that those who haven’t read book one will be somewhat lost, as no recap is provided. I was hooked from the beginning with a plot that has several twists and turns along the way. While the action is over-the-top, it was so full of excitement, drama, and danger that I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. At the same time, it was somewhat unsettling when you examine the thoughts, behaviors, and actions of many of those in power. I believe a list of acronyms would be valuable for many readers.
Konkoly continues to bring great characters, an intriguing plot, and heart-pounding action together in exhilarating novels. The gripping scenes and great plot kept me on the edge of my seat. He has become one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading more from him.
Overall, this book was intense, suspenseful, action-packed and violent with compelling characters, high-stakes, and a story that is unsettling, gripping, and thought-provoking. If you enjoy thrillers, then look no further than this series. I’m looking forward to reading book three. I highly recommend reading book one before reading this one.
Thomas and Mercer and Steven Konkoly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 27, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.32 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
January 22, 2025
If you want a solid thriller, don't look any further. Steven Konkoly is your man. A Hired Kill is the second book about FBI agent Garrett Mann and it continues where the first one A Clean Kill ended. I must tell you that Konkoly delivers, he has surprised me with every book I've read so far. He is so solid a writer that if I see his name on a book I will read it. This one is so filled with both action and suspense not to forget an intriguing plot so fileed with twists you will end up looking over your shoulder to see where the story took you. I will recommend this book and series to all that can stand my ravings. I must thank Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for letting me read this advance copy of a book that hits the stores in the end of May this year.
June 26, 2025
i love these books bc the author has POV from both sides of the conflict. very detailed and well narrated!
July 26, 2025
A serial killer draws an FBI agent into an explosive government conspiracy in a white-knuckle thriller by Steven Konkoly, the USA Today bestselling author of A Clean Kill.
Here we have number 2 in the series, which continues the story.
Garrett Mann a great strong character, great series, although I have to admit filled with lots of characters, and names hard to keep up with Mann's full team.
But well paced, gripping, tense and realistic.
After FBI special agent Garrett Mann executes a deadly raid on an underground facility in New Mexico, the sole survivor’s testimony reveals a greater threat to come.
The covert lair was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios, who have since disappeared into the US, their ultimate mission still unknown. When another FBI raid goes catastrophically wrong, Mann finds himself on the trail of the Bureau’s original target—a moonlighting serial killer who leads the agent into a nightmare that’s darker and more extensive than Mann ever feared.
As Mann and his team hunt their fugitive, they find he could have deep ties to powerful government officials. But even as the list of people Mann trusts grows smaller, he must find the killer and blow the heart of this conspiracy wide open before more lives are lost.
Four stars
My favourite character from this author is Ryan Decker. A great series.
Here we have number 2 in the series, which continues the story.
Garrett Mann a great strong character, great series, although I have to admit filled with lots of characters, and names hard to keep up with Mann's full team.
But well paced, gripping, tense and realistic.
After FBI special agent Garrett Mann executes a deadly raid on an underground facility in New Mexico, the sole survivor’s testimony reveals a greater threat to come.
The covert lair was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios, who have since disappeared into the US, their ultimate mission still unknown. When another FBI raid goes catastrophically wrong, Mann finds himself on the trail of the Bureau’s original target—a moonlighting serial killer who leads the agent into a nightmare that’s darker and more extensive than Mann ever feared.
As Mann and his team hunt their fugitive, they find he could have deep ties to powerful government officials. But even as the list of people Mann trusts grows smaller, he must find the killer and blow the heart of this conspiracy wide open before more lives are lost.
Four stars
My favourite character from this author is Ryan Decker. A great series.
November 26, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book.
Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy this book. I was really interested in the beginning, but after a while it just got boring for me. I don’t usually read this kind of novel, and I think it’s simply not my thing. Overall, it wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t for me.
Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy this book. I was really interested in the beginning, but after a while it just got boring for me. I don’t usually read this kind of novel, and I think it’s simply not my thing. Overall, it wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t for me.
January 10, 2025
The plot had potential, with high-stakes moments and a strong focus on FBI agent Garrett Morgan, but I found the story a bit hard to follow at times. The overuse of acronyms and an overwhelming number of characters made it difficult to stay engaged, especially for readers jumping in without having read the first book.
While there are some standout moments, the lack of depth in character development and the somewhat predictable twists held it back from being great. It’s a solid read for fans of military-style thrillers, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
While there are some standout moments, the lack of depth in character development and the somewhat predictable twists held it back from being great. It’s a solid read for fans of military-style thrillers, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
May 16, 2025
I really wanted to like this book, because the plot sounded super promising and right up my alley. Action, espionage, covert operations… what’s not to love? But honestly, this one just didn’t click for me. I don’t think it was a bad book by any means—it just wasn’t for me.
I even tried switching to the audiobook, thinking it might help me get more into it, but that didn’t work either. The narration felt just as choppy as the story itself. Everything moved in these quick, staccato bursts, which made it hard to stay engaged. On top of that, there were so many characters and agency abbreviations being thrown around that I kept losing track of who was who and what was going on.
I should probably mention this is the second book in a series—and I didn’t read the first one. That might have been part of the issue, because I definitely felt like I was missing some important background. Maybe with that context, it would’ve felt more cohesive.
So, while I think fans of fast-paced thrillers might enjoy this more than I did, I personally just couldn’t get into it. Not a total miss, but not a hit for me either.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC and audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
I even tried switching to the audiobook, thinking it might help me get more into it, but that didn’t work either. The narration felt just as choppy as the story itself. Everything moved in these quick, staccato bursts, which made it hard to stay engaged. On top of that, there were so many characters and agency abbreviations being thrown around that I kept losing track of who was who and what was going on.
I should probably mention this is the second book in a series—and I didn’t read the first one. That might have been part of the issue, because I definitely felt like I was missing some important background. Maybe with that context, it would’ve felt more cohesive.
So, while I think fans of fast-paced thrillers might enjoy this more than I did, I personally just couldn’t get into it. Not a total miss, but not a hit for me either.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC and audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
April 25, 2025
A fantastic follow up to A Clean Kill. Steven Konkoly delivers a faced paced thriller, with a great cast of characters, a solid plot line, and a whole lot of action to keep you turning the pages. I stayed up later than normal just to finish it because I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep. A Hired Kill comes out on May 27th, so buy the 1st book now and read it. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for the ARC of this great thriller and I highly recommend reading it. Thank you Steven for writing another killer thriller and I also recommend reading any of his books, especially The Black Flagged series.
November 22, 2024
After really liking the first in this series I couldn’t wait for another action packed ride. If I had sum up the overall tenor of the plot, it’s even more adrenaline spiked throughout than the first. Garrett Mann and his team confront multiple threats. His boss, FBI Deputy director O’Reilly, has covered their occasional coloring outside the lines methods. She’s not able to protect them now while fighting for her life. The team (ARTEMIS) is up against conspiracies that reach far higher into powerful people and places than they could foresee. The serial killer they’d encountered in NM is up to new deadly games. Everything you’d want in a thriller is covered in this plot. The characters are strong, devoted, committed and determined. The conspiracies and government agencies are all at play. The hardest part is keeping up with the numerous alphabet agencies involved. It was another complex operation that kept me reading far too late at night.
Thomas & Mercer (via NetGalley) provided an Advance Reader Copy of “A Hired Kill” Garrett Mann #2, by Steven Konkoly, publication expected 05/13/2025. These are my honest personal thoughts and opinions given freely without compensation.
Thomas & Mercer (via NetGalley) provided an Advance Reader Copy of “A Hired Kill” Garrett Mann #2, by Steven Konkoly, publication expected 05/13/2025. These are my honest personal thoughts and opinions given freely without compensation.
January 20, 2025
A Hired Kill is book 2 in the Garrett Mann series, and picks up right where book 1 ended. Mann and his team of “misfit” FBI agents are hot on the trail of a serial killer with ties to a shadowy conspiracy organization bent on disrupting the upcoming US elections. The action is fast and furious in this one, as top level FBI directors are targeted for assassination, and Mann’s team is under siege from cartel hit men. The continued plot in book 2 is more clearly explained, as are the roles of the various characters and organizations involved, which was all a bit muddled in book one, making this a much more enjoyable read, as the combat scenes, while a little over the top, are thrilling and tense. The loose ends are nicely tied up as well. Highly recommend reading the first book in the series though. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2025
Great sequel
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series so far. This is a great continuation of the first book, and I hope to read another one with these characters soon.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series so far. This is a great continuation of the first book, and I hope to read another one with these characters soon.
June 6, 2025
An action packed story
Mann and his crew are following up on leads from the facility they raided in New Mexico. They find way more than they bargained for.
Mann and his crew are following up on leads from the facility they raided in New Mexico. They find way more than they bargained for.
December 29, 2024
Probably 4.5 stars. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to preview this book. Since this is the second in the series and I had not read the first installment, it was a little confusing to start, but it got better as I continued. A great finish. Worthwhile and recommended.
May 20, 2025
Alright. Book 1 (A Clean Kill) was not my cup of tea, though I like Garrett Mann and his team. I didn't like the political/conspiracy aspect of the book. I gave book 2 a shot. Unfortunately, the one thing I liked about A Clean Kill is mostly missing. I DNFed at 25%. By this point, the Artemis team is barely involved, there is a plethora of other people, and we are still in conspiracy land.
Lesson learned- this series is not for me.
I do know there is a large audience that will love this. It just isn't me.
I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lesson learned- this series is not for me.
I do know there is a large audience that will love this. It just isn't me.
I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2025
There is nothing I enjoy more than rapid fire murder and spending time with the well
developed fictional alphabet
(and cleverly named) agencies of the Feds.
Who doesn’t love the fancy toys and amazing ways these guys handle business
between multiple scenes and with a staggering body count.
Of course I did not quit until I literally fell asleep!
I recommend this to everyone, and no worry if you’re new to the series. There is
enough support of the missions and characters to ensure maximum enjoyment!
My thanks to Thomas and Mercer for the download copy of this book for review
purposes.
developed fictional alphabet
(and cleverly named) agencies of the Feds.
Who doesn’t love the fancy toys and amazing ways these guys handle business
between multiple scenes and with a staggering body count.
Of course I did not quit until I literally fell asleep!
I recommend this to everyone, and no worry if you’re new to the series. There is
enough support of the missions and characters to ensure maximum enjoyment!
My thanks to Thomas and Mercer for the download copy of this book for review
purposes.
September 20, 2025
One of my favorite TV series of recent years was “The Americans,” whose lead characters were Soviet Cold War sleeper agents masquerading as ordinary Americans while undertaking various espionage and sabotage missions. A 21st-century version of that premise appears to be the central storyline of Steven Konkoly’s thriller, “A Hired Kill.” I say “appears” because “A Hired Kill” is the second volume in a trilogy whose conclusion has not been published as of the date of this review. Viewed as a standalone novel, “A Hired Kill” boasts many well-staged action scenes, but its plot is often confusing, with many poorly defined characters.
The protagonist (and most three-dimensional character) in “A Hired Kill” is Garrett Mann, an FBI special agent who is the head of a special strike force called ARTEMIS. (Using an all-caps acronym as the strike force’s name is one of the book’s many annoying stylistic conventions.) As the story begins, Mann’s team has raided the enemy’s secret training base, where hardcore Mexican cartel members were undergoing a crash course in how to pose as Americans. The base was abandoned, and almost all the current trainees had been murdered before Mann’s arrival. (These events apparently took place at the end of the trilogy’s first volume.) Based on the evidence left behind, Mann and his superiors determine that many previous trainees had “graduated” from the center and been given new cover identities. The authorities must find and stop these trainees before they can accomplish their as-yet unknown mission.
Writing a trilogy requires considerable skill on the part of an author, and Steven Konkoly hasn’t mastered it. Those who haven’t read the initial book in the series may struggle to understand the storyline. The author avoids lengthy, boring information dumps but inserts cryptic bits of exposition in their place that are often hard to follow. (I did some outside research to satisfy myself regarding backstory.) Further, many secondary characters are ill-defined and hard to distinguish. As part of their master plan, the villains try to assassinate three higher-ups in the FBI and CIA whose deaths they believe will cripple the government’s efforts to foil the master plan.
Unfortunately, I never figured out just who those people were or how they fit into the governmental command structure. Mann later discovers a traitor within his extended team who is supplying vital information to the villains. When the traitor is finally uncovered, their identity proves to be nothing more than another name readers have learned almost nothing about in the first two-thirds of the book.
Similarly, Mann and his team have some help in dealing with the villains. He has a team of Mexican cops who were smuggled into the United States to take on the cartel members. Since they’re here quite unofficially, they must maintain a very low profile. That low profile includes keeping all information about any of them except their leader secret from readers. Later, Mann calls on a team of mercenaries to help him as well. The only thing the author accomplished by recruiting an extra dozen or so faceless troops to support the good guys is to give himself more pieces to move around the chessboard when he described the action scenes.
Those action scenes are the saving grace of “A Hired Kill.” Steven Konkoly has years of training and experience as a military veteran and brings that expertise to the printed page. “A Hired Kill” has two large-scale set pieces and several smaller armed encounters. The action is complex, but the author’s descriptions are easy to follow. The first set piece involves a shootout in a suburban neighborhood, where the villains attempt to ambush a vehicle by deploying shooters in multiple houses. Later, Mann and his forces attack the enemy’s communications center somewhere in the suburbs of Washington, DC. Besides the usual fireworks, Mann’s team shows its intelligence savvy by identifying which of the dozens of similar office buildings in the area houses the bad guys.
I don’t want to spoil the ending of “A Hired Kill,” but I realize readers want some finality in books like this. The author doesn’t provide many answers. The big bad’s identity is finally revealed (but probably won’t have as much of an impact for readers who haven’t read the first volume in the series). Further, the exact nature of the villains’ master plan remains a mystery, although readers can probably guess it in general terms. In addition, although the book’s ending isn’t a traditional cliffhanger, it leaves too many loose ends for readers who are accustomed to a degree of closure following the climactic action sequence that precedes it.
The degree to which readers enjoy “A Hired Kill” depends to a large extent on what they’re seeking in a book like this. Those who just want fast-paced action will enjoy “A Hired Kill” a great deal. Most of the book’s last half comprises various well-described action sequences. However, those who prefer a more cerebral cat-and-mouse intelligence thriller may be disappointed by the at-times confusing storyline and multiple, poorly differentiated characters. I enjoyed the book enough to give it a three-star rating and a mild recommendation. However, I’m not in any hurry to finish this series.
NOTE: The publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. However, the decision to review the book and the contents of this review are entirely my own.
The protagonist (and most three-dimensional character) in “A Hired Kill” is Garrett Mann, an FBI special agent who is the head of a special strike force called ARTEMIS. (Using an all-caps acronym as the strike force’s name is one of the book’s many annoying stylistic conventions.) As the story begins, Mann’s team has raided the enemy’s secret training base, where hardcore Mexican cartel members were undergoing a crash course in how to pose as Americans. The base was abandoned, and almost all the current trainees had been murdered before Mann’s arrival. (These events apparently took place at the end of the trilogy’s first volume.) Based on the evidence left behind, Mann and his superiors determine that many previous trainees had “graduated” from the center and been given new cover identities. The authorities must find and stop these trainees before they can accomplish their as-yet unknown mission.
Writing a trilogy requires considerable skill on the part of an author, and Steven Konkoly hasn’t mastered it. Those who haven’t read the initial book in the series may struggle to understand the storyline. The author avoids lengthy, boring information dumps but inserts cryptic bits of exposition in their place that are often hard to follow. (I did some outside research to satisfy myself regarding backstory.) Further, many secondary characters are ill-defined and hard to distinguish. As part of their master plan, the villains try to assassinate three higher-ups in the FBI and CIA whose deaths they believe will cripple the government’s efforts to foil the master plan.
Unfortunately, I never figured out just who those people were or how they fit into the governmental command structure. Mann later discovers a traitor within his extended team who is supplying vital information to the villains. When the traitor is finally uncovered, their identity proves to be nothing more than another name readers have learned almost nothing about in the first two-thirds of the book.
Similarly, Mann and his team have some help in dealing with the villains. He has a team of Mexican cops who were smuggled into the United States to take on the cartel members. Since they’re here quite unofficially, they must maintain a very low profile. That low profile includes keeping all information about any of them except their leader secret from readers. Later, Mann calls on a team of mercenaries to help him as well. The only thing the author accomplished by recruiting an extra dozen or so faceless troops to support the good guys is to give himself more pieces to move around the chessboard when he described the action scenes.
Those action scenes are the saving grace of “A Hired Kill.” Steven Konkoly has years of training and experience as a military veteran and brings that expertise to the printed page. “A Hired Kill” has two large-scale set pieces and several smaller armed encounters. The action is complex, but the author’s descriptions are easy to follow. The first set piece involves a shootout in a suburban neighborhood, where the villains attempt to ambush a vehicle by deploying shooters in multiple houses. Later, Mann and his forces attack the enemy’s communications center somewhere in the suburbs of Washington, DC. Besides the usual fireworks, Mann’s team shows its intelligence savvy by identifying which of the dozens of similar office buildings in the area houses the bad guys.
I don’t want to spoil the ending of “A Hired Kill,” but I realize readers want some finality in books like this. The author doesn’t provide many answers. The big bad’s identity is finally revealed (but probably won’t have as much of an impact for readers who haven’t read the first volume in the series). Further, the exact nature of the villains’ master plan remains a mystery, although readers can probably guess it in general terms. In addition, although the book’s ending isn’t a traditional cliffhanger, it leaves too many loose ends for readers who are accustomed to a degree of closure following the climactic action sequence that precedes it.
The degree to which readers enjoy “A Hired Kill” depends to a large extent on what they’re seeking in a book like this. Those who just want fast-paced action will enjoy “A Hired Kill” a great deal. Most of the book’s last half comprises various well-described action sequences. However, those who prefer a more cerebral cat-and-mouse intelligence thriller may be disappointed by the at-times confusing storyline and multiple, poorly differentiated characters. I enjoyed the book enough to give it a three-star rating and a mild recommendation. However, I’m not in any hurry to finish this series.
NOTE: The publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. However, the decision to review the book and the contents of this review are entirely my own.
January 24, 2025
Another great read from Steven Konokoly in the Garrett Mann series. Lots of action and intrigue. Great story, great pacing, and great characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series. #AHiredKill #NetGalley
April 10, 2025
It seemed as though I was watching a movie. This is a very good read .
October 30, 2024
This was another book that I was fortunate enough to be granted an eArc by the author (Steven Konkoly), his publisher (Thomas & Mercer) and the fine folks at NetGalley in exchange for the opportunity to post an honest review.
After FBI special agent Garrett Mann executes a deadly raid on an underground facility in New Mexico (Labrynth), the sole survivor’s testimony reveals a greater threat to come.
The covert lair was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios (trained assassins), who have since disappeared into the US, their ultimate mission still unknown. When another FBI raid goes catastrophically wrong, Mann finds himself on the trail of the Bureau’s original target—a moonlighting serial killer who leads the agent into a nightmare that’s darker and more extensive than Mann ever feared.
As Mann and his team hunt their fugitive, they find he could have deep ties to powerful government officials. But even as the list of people Mann trusts grows smaller, he must find the killer and blow the heart of this conspiracy wide open before more lives are lost.
Steven Konkoly’s A Hired Kill is a pulse-pounding thriller that plunges readers into a labyrinth (pun intended) of government conspiracies and relentless danger. This second installment in the Garrett Mann series showcases Konkoly’s knack for crafting intricate plots and high-stakes action.
Konkoly’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the intensity and urgency of Mann’s investigation. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels you to keep reading.
The action sequences are vividly described, immersing the reader in the heart-pounding moments of danger and suspense.
Garrett Mann is a compelling protagonist, his determination and moral complexity driving the narrative forward. Konkoly excels at creating multi-dimensional characters, and Mann’s interactions with his team and the various suspects add depth to the story. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic serial killer and the shadowy government figures, are equally well-developed, each adding to the intricate web of intrigue.
The only real issue that I found with this evocative thriller is that as the chapters progressed that I found some difficulty in keeping track of the supporting characters (both on Garrett Mann's team and on that of the protagonist AXIOM). Another point that I found some difficulty with (and this may be because I am unsure whether I read the first book in the series or not) was that it made a lot of references to the story in the first book (A Clean Kill) in the series.
Overall, this is a great novel that is sure to be a favourite of paramilitary thriller aficionados and sure to be enjoyed by fans of Tom Clancy (think Rainbow Six storyline). As such, I would easily give this book a solid four stars out of five.
As with most of my literary ramblings, these are just my five cents worth
After FBI special agent Garrett Mann executes a deadly raid on an underground facility in New Mexico (Labrynth), the sole survivor’s testimony reveals a greater threat to come.
The covert lair was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios (trained assassins), who have since disappeared into the US, their ultimate mission still unknown. When another FBI raid goes catastrophically wrong, Mann finds himself on the trail of the Bureau’s original target—a moonlighting serial killer who leads the agent into a nightmare that’s darker and more extensive than Mann ever feared.
As Mann and his team hunt their fugitive, they find he could have deep ties to powerful government officials. But even as the list of people Mann trusts grows smaller, he must find the killer and blow the heart of this conspiracy wide open before more lives are lost.
Steven Konkoly’s A Hired Kill is a pulse-pounding thriller that plunges readers into a labyrinth (pun intended) of government conspiracies and relentless danger. This second installment in the Garrett Mann series showcases Konkoly’s knack for crafting intricate plots and high-stakes action.
Konkoly’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the intensity and urgency of Mann’s investigation. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels you to keep reading.
The action sequences are vividly described, immersing the reader in the heart-pounding moments of danger and suspense.
Garrett Mann is a compelling protagonist, his determination and moral complexity driving the narrative forward. Konkoly excels at creating multi-dimensional characters, and Mann’s interactions with his team and the various suspects add depth to the story. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic serial killer and the shadowy government figures, are equally well-developed, each adding to the intricate web of intrigue.
The only real issue that I found with this evocative thriller is that as the chapters progressed that I found some difficulty in keeping track of the supporting characters (both on Garrett Mann's team and on that of the protagonist AXIOM). Another point that I found some difficulty with (and this may be because I am unsure whether I read the first book in the series or not) was that it made a lot of references to the story in the first book (A Clean Kill) in the series.
Overall, this is a great novel that is sure to be a favourite of paramilitary thriller aficionados and sure to be enjoyed by fans of Tom Clancy (think Rainbow Six storyline). As such, I would easily give this book a solid four stars out of five.
As with most of my literary ramblings, these are just my five cents worth
November 16, 2024
This is the second book in the Garrett Mann series and it continues as we follow Special Agent Mann and the ARTEMIS team as they try to catch a prolific serial killer - the last of three killers that were working for the Juarez Cartel.
This book actually takes a turn in that Mann and team discover that they have actually found themselves in the middle of a quite different scenario and things are vastly more important than they realized. There are some SERIOUS consequences to the security of the US involved and they do not realize the potential consequences until it is too late.
This is where things get a little bit complicated. While this is the second book in this series, new characters are introduced into this storyline - characters who readers of Mr. Konkoly's other series are already familiar with. Unfortunately, it is confusing to have the addition of so many new characters as some are added to Mann's team, some are on Serrano's team and others are the ones we knew back from the Ryan Decker and Devin Gray series. I HAVE read all of those books and I was still unsure at times who was who. I will admit though, I enjoyed seeing Audra, Gupta and some of their gang back on the board.
This book is extremely fast paced and is full of action, combat and off the reservation type behaviors as Mann and his team realize that doing things "by the book" will only get them killed. While this typically could be labelled as a police or FBI procedural book, in a way it is as far from that as you can imagine because almost every action the team makes is against current policy and most times against the law and could get all of them arrested. But, then again, when people are trying non-stop to kill every single member of your team - and succeeding more times than not - well, being as unconventional as possible begins to look like the smart thing.
Since there is so much action, there is not a lot of character development in this series. While I really do like Mann as an MMC, I still do not feel like I REALLY know him other than the fact that he is a rogue type agent. He and the others feel very one dimensional and I think that is why there is not a lot of emotional investment on my part when someone on their team is killed. I just didn't know them well enough to feel that as a loss, and I think that is the one thing that held this book back.
This book ends with a bit of uncertainty on whether or not they were successful in eliminating the threat. The individual storyline for this book is settled and that part closed, but I think that we are going to learn that while they might have closed one chapter, there is a completely different element still out there. Maybe?
Thank you to NetGalley and to Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone. This book will be out for publication on May 27, 2025.
This book actually takes a turn in that Mann and team discover that they have actually found themselves in the middle of a quite different scenario and things are vastly more important than they realized. There are some SERIOUS consequences to the security of the US involved and they do not realize the potential consequences until it is too late.
This is where things get a little bit complicated. While this is the second book in this series, new characters are introduced into this storyline - characters who readers of Mr. Konkoly's other series are already familiar with. Unfortunately, it is confusing to have the addition of so many new characters as some are added to Mann's team, some are on Serrano's team and others are the ones we knew back from the Ryan Decker and Devin Gray series. I HAVE read all of those books and I was still unsure at times who was who. I will admit though, I enjoyed seeing Audra, Gupta and some of their gang back on the board.
This book is extremely fast paced and is full of action, combat and off the reservation type behaviors as Mann and his team realize that doing things "by the book" will only get them killed. While this typically could be labelled as a police or FBI procedural book, in a way it is as far from that as you can imagine because almost every action the team makes is against current policy and most times against the law and could get all of them arrested. But, then again, when people are trying non-stop to kill every single member of your team - and succeeding more times than not - well, being as unconventional as possible begins to look like the smart thing.
Since there is so much action, there is not a lot of character development in this series. While I really do like Mann as an MMC, I still do not feel like I REALLY know him other than the fact that he is a rogue type agent. He and the others feel very one dimensional and I think that is why there is not a lot of emotional investment on my part when someone on their team is killed. I just didn't know them well enough to feel that as a loss, and I think that is the one thing that held this book back.
This book ends with a bit of uncertainty on whether or not they were successful in eliminating the threat. The individual storyline for this book is settled and that part closed, but I think that we are going to learn that while they might have closed one chapter, there is a completely different element still out there. Maybe?
Thank you to NetGalley and to Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone. This book will be out for publication on May 27, 2025.
October 10, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Steven Konkoly’s A Hired Kill is a pulse-pounding thriller that plunges readers into a labyrinth of government conspiracies and relentless danger. This second installment in the Garrett Mann series showcases Konkoly’s knack for crafting intricate plots and high-stakes action.
The novel follows FBI special agent Garrett Mann, who finds himself in the midst of a deadly conspiracy after a raid on an underground facility in New Mexico goes catastrophically wrong. The sole survivor’s testimony reveals a chilling truth: the facility was a training ground for cartel sicarios, who have now vanished into the United States with an unknown mission. As Mann digs deeper, he uncovers a moonlighting serial killer with ties to powerful government officials, leading him into a nightmare that threatens to unravel everything he holds dear.
Konkoly’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the intensity and urgency of Mann’s investigation. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels you to keep reading.
The action sequences are vividly described, immersing the reader in the heart-pounding moments of danger and suspense.
Garrett Mann is a compelling protagonist, his determination and moral complexity driving the narrative forward. Konkoly excels at creating multi-dimensional characters, and Mann’s interactions with his team and the various suspects add depth to the story. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic serial killer and the shadowy government figures, are equally well-developed, each adding to the intricate web of intrigue.
One of the standout aspects of A Hired Kill is its exploration of themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and the impact of past traumas on the present. Konkoly delves into the psychological toll of Mann’s work, making his struggles and fears feel real and relatable. The twists and turns are expertly crafted, with each revelation adding to the overall sense of unease and suspense.
A Hired Kill is a gripping and well-crafted thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Steven Konkoly has delivered a story that is thrilling and thought-provoking.
For fans of crime fiction and high-stakes thrillers, this book is a must-read.
Steven Konkoly’s A Hired Kill is a pulse-pounding thriller that plunges readers into a labyrinth of government conspiracies and relentless danger. This second installment in the Garrett Mann series showcases Konkoly’s knack for crafting intricate plots and high-stakes action.
The novel follows FBI special agent Garrett Mann, who finds himself in the midst of a deadly conspiracy after a raid on an underground facility in New Mexico goes catastrophically wrong. The sole survivor’s testimony reveals a chilling truth: the facility was a training ground for cartel sicarios, who have now vanished into the United States with an unknown mission. As Mann digs deeper, he uncovers a moonlighting serial killer with ties to powerful government officials, leading him into a nightmare that threatens to unravel everything he holds dear.
Konkoly’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the intensity and urgency of Mann’s investigation. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels you to keep reading.
The action sequences are vividly described, immersing the reader in the heart-pounding moments of danger and suspense.
Garrett Mann is a compelling protagonist, his determination and moral complexity driving the narrative forward. Konkoly excels at creating multi-dimensional characters, and Mann’s interactions with his team and the various suspects add depth to the story. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic serial killer and the shadowy government figures, are equally well-developed, each adding to the intricate web of intrigue.
One of the standout aspects of A Hired Kill is its exploration of themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and the impact of past traumas on the present. Konkoly delves into the psychological toll of Mann’s work, making his struggles and fears feel real and relatable. The twists and turns are expertly crafted, with each revelation adding to the overall sense of unease and suspense.
A Hired Kill is a gripping and well-crafted thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Steven Konkoly has delivered a story that is thrilling and thought-provoking.
For fans of crime fiction and high-stakes thrillers, this book is a must-read.
May 30, 2025
Who can be trusted?
FBI Special Agent Garrett Mann heads a special task force known as ARTEMIS. He and his team recently uncovered an underground facility in New Mexico where the Mexican cartel Triada was training assassins to further hone their deadly skills and learn blend in within the US, for reasons unknown. When they raided the facility they discovered all of the current "trainees" dead, killed with a poisonous gas released to keep them from falling into the FBI's hands (as well as all electronics wiped clean). All the trainees, that is, but one, a woman who Mann needs to persuade to tell his team everything she knows about what was being done at the facility and, perhaps more importantly, why. The survivor is able to help with the former but not the latter. A tech expert working with Mann's team uncovers the likely address of the last Triad serial killer, but when the FBI executes a raid its a disaster. Mann and his team drill down on hunting the killer now in the wind but aren't liking what they find....there may be ties between their target and people high up in the government. Can ARTEMIS find and stop the killer, shine a light on the growing conspiracy they've uncovered, and live to tell the tale when they don't even know whom they can trust?
With its intricate plot and fast-moving pace, A Hired Kill is the second installment in author Steven Konkoly's series featuring protagonist Garrett Mann. The action is non-stop and there are plenty of unexpected plot twists and turns as the suspense builds. Mann is a strong leader with his share of humanizing flaws, and his team a solid group of dedicated investigators. The level of action and intricacy of the story are the driving force within the book, and the author's military background injects a note of realism into the unfolding story. Readers in search of a thriller with conspiracy theories, murkiy alphabet agencies, a storyline on which one needs to stay focused, and unexpected turns will find A Hired Kill to be a good match. Fans of the author's other works as well as readers of Vince Flynn, Jack Carr and David Baldacci will also not be disappointed if they grab a copy. My thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me access to Mr. Konkoly's latest in exchange for my honest review.
FBI Special Agent Garrett Mann heads a special task force known as ARTEMIS. He and his team recently uncovered an underground facility in New Mexico where the Mexican cartel Triada was training assassins to further hone their deadly skills and learn blend in within the US, for reasons unknown. When they raided the facility they discovered all of the current "trainees" dead, killed with a poisonous gas released to keep them from falling into the FBI's hands (as well as all electronics wiped clean). All the trainees, that is, but one, a woman who Mann needs to persuade to tell his team everything she knows about what was being done at the facility and, perhaps more importantly, why. The survivor is able to help with the former but not the latter. A tech expert working with Mann's team uncovers the likely address of the last Triad serial killer, but when the FBI executes a raid its a disaster. Mann and his team drill down on hunting the killer now in the wind but aren't liking what they find....there may be ties between their target and people high up in the government. Can ARTEMIS find and stop the killer, shine a light on the growing conspiracy they've uncovered, and live to tell the tale when they don't even know whom they can trust?
With its intricate plot and fast-moving pace, A Hired Kill is the second installment in author Steven Konkoly's series featuring protagonist Garrett Mann. The action is non-stop and there are plenty of unexpected plot twists and turns as the suspense builds. Mann is a strong leader with his share of humanizing flaws, and his team a solid group of dedicated investigators. The level of action and intricacy of the story are the driving force within the book, and the author's military background injects a note of realism into the unfolding story. Readers in search of a thriller with conspiracy theories, murkiy alphabet agencies, a storyline on which one needs to stay focused, and unexpected turns will find A Hired Kill to be a good match. Fans of the author's other works as well as readers of Vince Flynn, Jack Carr and David Baldacci will also not be disappointed if they grab a copy. My thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me access to Mr. Konkoly's latest in exchange for my honest review.
June 1, 2025
Steven Konkoly clearly didn’t come to play with A Hired Kill. This second installment in the Garrett Mann series picks up with zero chill—immediate chaos, high-stakes cartel drama, and that familiar sense that everyone in power is either complicit, clueless, or conveniently missing. In other words, it’s Tuesday in America.
The book launches with an underground sicario training facility raid (because why not start off spicy?), and from there, it’s a relentless dive into a political and moral gray zone. Garrett Mann is the type of protagonist we love—layered, battle-worn, and operating with a code that makes sense even when everything else is off the rails. He’s not just trying to stop the bad guys; he’s untangling a whole web of corruption that reeks of government rot, media manipulation, and a touch of old-school spycraft.
Let’s talk pace: this book moves. The action sequences aren’t gratuitous; they’re tactical and sharp, with real consequences. Konkoly has clearly done his homework in intelligence and military ops, but he doesn’t get lost in the jargon (well, okay—some acronyms could’ve used a glossary, but nothing unmanageable if you’re paying attention).
What elevates this book isn’t just the action—it’s the tension between loyalty and betrayal, trust and survival. Mann isn’t a superhero; he bleeds, emotionally and physically. And that vulnerability makes you root for him hard.
Now, minor critique? This isn’t a series you jump into blind. You’ll be fine eventually, but if you didn’t read A Clean Kill, expect to play a little mental hopscotch while keeping track of characters, cover-ups, and subplots. That said, Konkoly rewards your patience with a tightly woven payoff that sticks the landing.
Final Verdict:
A Hired Kill is what happens when you give a thriller grit, brains, and a protagonist who doesn’t just punch through walls—he questions the system that built them. If Jack Reacher and Jason Bourne had a morally nuanced baby with a security clearance, Garrett Mann would be it. And we’d follow him anywhere… just preferably with backup.
The book launches with an underground sicario training facility raid (because why not start off spicy?), and from there, it’s a relentless dive into a political and moral gray zone. Garrett Mann is the type of protagonist we love—layered, battle-worn, and operating with a code that makes sense even when everything else is off the rails. He’s not just trying to stop the bad guys; he’s untangling a whole web of corruption that reeks of government rot, media manipulation, and a touch of old-school spycraft.
Let’s talk pace: this book moves. The action sequences aren’t gratuitous; they’re tactical and sharp, with real consequences. Konkoly has clearly done his homework in intelligence and military ops, but he doesn’t get lost in the jargon (well, okay—some acronyms could’ve used a glossary, but nothing unmanageable if you’re paying attention).
What elevates this book isn’t just the action—it’s the tension between loyalty and betrayal, trust and survival. Mann isn’t a superhero; he bleeds, emotionally and physically. And that vulnerability makes you root for him hard.
Now, minor critique? This isn’t a series you jump into blind. You’ll be fine eventually, but if you didn’t read A Clean Kill, expect to play a little mental hopscotch while keeping track of characters, cover-ups, and subplots. That said, Konkoly rewards your patience with a tightly woven payoff that sticks the landing.
Final Verdict:
A Hired Kill is what happens when you give a thriller grit, brains, and a protagonist who doesn’t just punch through walls—he questions the system that built them. If Jack Reacher and Jason Bourne had a morally nuanced baby with a security clearance, Garrett Mann would be it. And we’d follow him anywhere… just preferably with backup.
May 18, 2025
I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Garrett and the rest of the ARTEMIS team at a site that they found in New Mexico. At this location they discovered one person alive and the remainder killed by poison gas. This one person they held to get information regarding what was going on the New Mexico site. Go forward a few months and the team is now in Sacramento where they expect to take down a serial killer named Raul. He along with two individuals were killers for the Jaurez cartel. Garrett's team had individuals from Mexico because their role was to eliminate the Assassins. Before they could go to Raul's house they were delayed by Federal agents who were looking for illegal immigrants and unauthorized weapons. Luckily, Serrano and the other Mexicans were at another location along with the weapons. Because of this, Garrett and his team weren't able to raid Raul's house. Unfortunately for the other Federal agents that controlled the raid, the house was booby trapped and resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. Because of this incident Garrett was called back to D.C to talk to his boss.
While Garrett was in D.C., his boss Dana O'Reilly was attacked by Raul while two other individuals were also target by the group known as AXIOM. With O'Reilly injured, James her boss, now took over working with Garrett.
Read along and discover who wanted AXIOM to perform a task, what the task was and how Garrett and his team with a few new additions attempted to foil their effort.
The story will have you wondering what next and wonder how it all ends. The ending answers all and it shouldn't be missed.
Get this book, you won't be sorry!
This story begins with Garrett and the rest of the ARTEMIS team at a site that they found in New Mexico. At this location they discovered one person alive and the remainder killed by poison gas. This one person they held to get information regarding what was going on the New Mexico site. Go forward a few months and the team is now in Sacramento where they expect to take down a serial killer named Raul. He along with two individuals were killers for the Jaurez cartel. Garrett's team had individuals from Mexico because their role was to eliminate the Assassins. Before they could go to Raul's house they were delayed by Federal agents who were looking for illegal immigrants and unauthorized weapons. Luckily, Serrano and the other Mexicans were at another location along with the weapons. Because of this, Garrett and his team weren't able to raid Raul's house. Unfortunately for the other Federal agents that controlled the raid, the house was booby trapped and resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. Because of this incident Garrett was called back to D.C to talk to his boss.
While Garrett was in D.C., his boss Dana O'Reilly was attacked by Raul while two other individuals were also target by the group known as AXIOM. With O'Reilly injured, James her boss, now took over working with Garrett.
Read along and discover who wanted AXIOM to perform a task, what the task was and how Garrett and his team with a few new additions attempted to foil their effort.
The story will have you wondering what next and wonder how it all ends. The ending answers all and it shouldn't be missed.
Get this book, you won't be sorry!
June 15, 2025
First and foremost, thank you to Steven Konkoly, Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Now about this book...
This books hits the ground running, and fast. FBI Special Agent Mann is part of a raid on an underground facility in a desolate place in New Mexico. Every single target in the raid is executed with prejudice, except one. The only survivor discloses that a greater threat is on the immediate horizon.
The hidden underground facility was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios, many who have dispersed into the United States, mission unknown. Based upon the tip from the lone survivor, the FBI initiate a raid, which goes terribly wrong. As Agent Mann continues to hunt for the fugitive, a killer, it begins to seem as if this killer has connections deep within the United States government.
Mann runs his outward investigation, while also trying to investigate the conspiracy that is clearing happening on US Soil. As he investigates, it becomes clear the number of people he can trust is diminishing quickly.
There were a LOT of moving parts and a lot of characters. This was a fast paced, non stop crime thriller. I had a little trouble keeping up with the people in the book. There were just a lot of people. The core group was 8-12 people alone, then add in ancillary characters and it is easy to lose the plot at times. I did think it was a good book and I would read this author again.
The narrator was mostly excellent. He did the Spanish accents well. But when he transitioned to an Indian accent, it sounded Spanish at times.
Now about this book...
This books hits the ground running, and fast. FBI Special Agent Mann is part of a raid on an underground facility in a desolate place in New Mexico. Every single target in the raid is executed with prejudice, except one. The only survivor discloses that a greater threat is on the immediate horizon.
The hidden underground facility was a training ground for hundreds of cartel sicarios, many who have dispersed into the United States, mission unknown. Based upon the tip from the lone survivor, the FBI initiate a raid, which goes terribly wrong. As Agent Mann continues to hunt for the fugitive, a killer, it begins to seem as if this killer has connections deep within the United States government.
Mann runs his outward investigation, while also trying to investigate the conspiracy that is clearing happening on US Soil. As he investigates, it becomes clear the number of people he can trust is diminishing quickly.
There were a LOT of moving parts and a lot of characters. This was a fast paced, non stop crime thriller. I had a little trouble keeping up with the people in the book. There were just a lot of people. The core group was 8-12 people alone, then add in ancillary characters and it is easy to lose the plot at times. I did think it was a good book and I would read this author again.
The narrator was mostly excellent. He did the Spanish accents well. But when he transitioned to an Indian accent, it sounded Spanish at times.
May 28, 2025
Slow start then I couldn't put it down
I have been a fan of Konkoly for some time. His universe of characters spans a lot of books and includes quite a few recurring characters. I'm reminded of Clancy's style of world building; Konkoly's characers live for him for more than one book or series. If you are unfamiliar with his work, start with the previous book. His characters live in and around the alphabet agencies (FBI, CIA, DEA nd more) and more often than not are mavericks. I had one minor issue with this book, and i found it odd. I read a lot of authors who write in series (it goes back to the days of reading Tom Swift Jr. - then finding the Tom Swift books when i could travel to used book stores) and continues today. I often comment on how authors feel compelled to put in extensive summaries that rehash the past, and for the first I found that I really needed it to get back into the world created in the first volume of the series. It would have helped sorting through the history of the relationships throughout
Of course, given that some of his characters preceeded the previous book, I'm sure there was a bit of a dilemma around that whole thing. There are references to plot lines that were seemingly concluded ages ago. Seems kind of odd to penalize the author (4 instead of 5 stars) but it impacted my reading. Meanwhile, there is undoubtedly another volume in this series in the works, and you can bet I'll be reading it. I just might revisit some of the earlier stuff before then because i keep enjoying it.
I have been a fan of Konkoly for some time. His universe of characters spans a lot of books and includes quite a few recurring characters. I'm reminded of Clancy's style of world building; Konkoly's characers live for him for more than one book or series. If you are unfamiliar with his work, start with the previous book. His characters live in and around the alphabet agencies (FBI, CIA, DEA nd more) and more often than not are mavericks. I had one minor issue with this book, and i found it odd. I read a lot of authors who write in series (it goes back to the days of reading Tom Swift Jr. - then finding the Tom Swift books when i could travel to used book stores) and continues today. I often comment on how authors feel compelled to put in extensive summaries that rehash the past, and for the first I found that I really needed it to get back into the world created in the first volume of the series. It would have helped sorting through the history of the relationships throughout
Of course, given that some of his characters preceeded the previous book, I'm sure there was a bit of a dilemma around that whole thing. There are references to plot lines that were seemingly concluded ages ago. Seems kind of odd to penalize the author (4 instead of 5 stars) but it impacted my reading. Meanwhile, there is undoubtedly another volume in this series in the works, and you can bet I'll be reading it. I just might revisit some of the earlier stuff before then because i keep enjoying it.
October 28, 2024
A Hired Kill picks up where A Clean Kill left off, with Garrett Mann and his team tracking a serial killer and delving deeper into a massive conspiracy they encountered in New Mexico. Just as in the first book, Konkoly is great at writing action scenes and crafting an exciting story to keep the reader engaged.
I enjoyed the second book more than the first due to some increased plot development with Mann’s boss. However, I still have some issues that carry over from book one to book two. First, there are still too many characters introduced at once, it was difficult to keep up with who’s who.
I would still say that a lot of plot and character development was missing. We never get to know the characters and see them grow or change and we go from shoot-out to dialogue back to shoot-out and back to dialogue. The last issue I have with this is that everyone is always too cooperative with Mann. He never has issues getting approvals for something or getting people to his side and I would have liked to see him struggle a bit more or have to fight for what he needs/wants.
I do enjoy Konkoly’s writing style and despite the issues that I have with the book it was still enjoyable overall and anyone that loves an action story will really enjoy this. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the second book more than the first due to some increased plot development with Mann’s boss. However, I still have some issues that carry over from book one to book two. First, there are still too many characters introduced at once, it was difficult to keep up with who’s who.
I would still say that a lot of plot and character development was missing. We never get to know the characters and see them grow or change and we go from shoot-out to dialogue back to shoot-out and back to dialogue. The last issue I have with this is that everyone is always too cooperative with Mann. He never has issues getting approvals for something or getting people to his side and I would have liked to see him struggle a bit more or have to fight for what he needs/wants.
I do enjoy Konkoly’s writing style and despite the issues that I have with the book it was still enjoyable overall and anyone that loves an action story will really enjoy this. I look forward to the next book in the series.
May 23, 2025
To be honest, I initially signed up to review the Audiobook version. 13% into the book and I just could not hold my attention span. I don't know the reason, and don't want to point fingers. That's when I decided to pick up the Kindle version instead and continued reading.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving an honest review at the end of my reading. Thank you, NetGalley!
For someone who hadn't read the first book, it was hard to follow when references to the La Triada or ARTEMIS were liberally made, and derivatives in the plot that had me super confused each time, thinking out aloud if I am missing the plot or jumping in and out of the story and trying to catch up.
For someone from a non-North American audience, I thought the frequent Spanish phrases, which I obviously do not understand, made comprehending the audiobook and staying focused on the story a challenge, despite the obvious linguistic distraction. However, unlike other authors, there was often no translation provided nor allegory to be surmised.
I thought reading the Kindle version would be a better idea and simply look up the translations via a web search, however, I found myself losing the plot often to the point of giving up the book entirely midway.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving an honest review at the end of my reading. Thank you, NetGalley!
For someone who hadn't read the first book, it was hard to follow when references to the La Triada or ARTEMIS were liberally made, and derivatives in the plot that had me super confused each time, thinking out aloud if I am missing the plot or jumping in and out of the story and trying to catch up.
For someone from a non-North American audience, I thought the frequent Spanish phrases, which I obviously do not understand, made comprehending the audiobook and staying focused on the story a challenge, despite the obvious linguistic distraction. However, unlike other authors, there was often no translation provided nor allegory to be surmised.
I thought reading the Kindle version would be a better idea and simply look up the translations via a web search, however, I found myself losing the plot often to the point of giving up the book entirely midway.
July 4, 2025
What a great action packed story that kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next.
This story is a continuation of the first of the series, "A Clean Kill". While you can still enjoy this book, it is probably better to read the first of the series. There is a lot of backstory and previous adventures that this story builds off of.
Garrett Mann, our lead character, is an FBI agent leading an elite task force whose members are other agents who see the world in greys, rather than black and white. Add to this group are Mexican law enforcement personnel who together are hunting 3 dangerous murderers that have crossed the border. But what started as a hunt for serial killers turns into a race to stop a plot that will interrupt the US's election and affect national politics.
The explanation of the equipment and tactical strategy is just enough to keep the story engaging and moving without bogging the reader in too much detail.
Any reader of Tom Clancy (Jack Ryan), Lee Child (Jack Reecher) or Mark Greeney (Gray Man) would enjoy this story.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This story is a continuation of the first of the series, "A Clean Kill". While you can still enjoy this book, it is probably better to read the first of the series. There is a lot of backstory and previous adventures that this story builds off of.
Garrett Mann, our lead character, is an FBI agent leading an elite task force whose members are other agents who see the world in greys, rather than black and white. Add to this group are Mexican law enforcement personnel who together are hunting 3 dangerous murderers that have crossed the border. But what started as a hunt for serial killers turns into a race to stop a plot that will interrupt the US's election and affect national politics.
The explanation of the equipment and tactical strategy is just enough to keep the story engaging and moving without bogging the reader in too much detail.
Any reader of Tom Clancy (Jack Ryan), Lee Child (Jack Reecher) or Mark Greeney (Gray Man) would enjoy this story.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 21, 2025
A Hired Kill (2025) by Steven Konkoly is the second book in a thriller series featuring FBI Special Agent Garrett Mann. Special Agent Mann is heading an off the books task force known as ARETIMAS. The discovery of an underground training facility in New Mexico sets off a series of violent confrontations with mercenaries hired by Axiom to end ARETIMAS. Garrett becomes aware there is a mole in their midst, and a fateful ambush requires them to find and stop Axiom. An action-packed hunt and counter offence moves across America as the highly placed secret organisation is determined to take out Garret’s team. Although a series, there is no need for any prior knowledge of the preceding book for this top-class action thriller, with a four and a half star read rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement. With thanks to Thomas & Mercer and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes.
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