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Alexander Hawke #13
Ted Bell's Monarch
"Monarch is that rarity in thrillers: first-class writing, wit, and suspense. This is one of the best Alex Hawke thrillers, and I've read all of them — James Patterson, #1 New York Times bestselling Author
"Hawke has never flown higher!" — Nelson DeMille, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bloodlines
Ted Bell's New York Times bestselling series returns with Lord Alexander Hawke facing his greatest challenge yet—to find the missing king of Britain.
Following a successful but costly mission to destroy an enemy outpost in Antarctica, Alex Hawke is looking forward to some quiet time at Teakettle Cottage, his home in Bermuda, along with his family. But he's not a man who can avoid trouble.
Former Chief Inspector of Scottland Yard Ambrose Congreve calls him with stunning news. Just days away from a controversial vote threatening to tear the United Kingdom apart at the seams, King Charles has disappeared while vacationing at Balmoral Castle. The prime minister believes she can keep the news quiet for no more than 72 hours. After that, Britain will be plunged into chaos.
With the fate of the kingdom hanging in the balance, it's up to Lord Hawke to find and rescue the missing monarch before it's too late.
"Hawke has never flown higher!" — Nelson DeMille, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bloodlines
Ted Bell's New York Times bestselling series returns with Lord Alexander Hawke facing his greatest challenge yet—to find the missing king of Britain.
Following a successful but costly mission to destroy an enemy outpost in Antarctica, Alex Hawke is looking forward to some quiet time at Teakettle Cottage, his home in Bermuda, along with his family. But he's not a man who can avoid trouble.
Former Chief Inspector of Scottland Yard Ambrose Congreve calls him with stunning news. Just days away from a controversial vote threatening to tear the United Kingdom apart at the seams, King Charles has disappeared while vacationing at Balmoral Castle. The prime minister believes she can keep the news quiet for no more than 72 hours. After that, Britain will be plunged into chaos.
With the fate of the kingdom hanging in the balance, it's up to Lord Hawke to find and rescue the missing monarch before it's too late.
453 pages, Hardcover
First published March 25, 2025
161 people are currently reading
3662 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Steck
10 books524 followersRyan Steck is the author of FIELDS OF FIRE, LETHAL RANGE, REDD CHRISTMAS, OUT FOR BLOOD, and the forthcoming Alex Hawke thriller TED BELL MONARCH. He is also a freelance editor, the founder and editor-in-chief of The Real Book Spy, and was named an “Online Influencer” by Amazon. Praised as “One of the hardest working and fairest reviewers out there” by New York Times bestselling author Lisa Scottoline, Steck has “quickly established himself as the authority on mysteries and thrillers” (Author A.J. Tata). His books have been endorsed by major #1 New York Times bestselling authors James Patterson, Brad Thor, C.J. Box, Jack Carr, Mark Greaney, Nelson DeMille, James Rollins, Brad Meltzer, Kyle Mills, as well as Don Winslow, T.J. Newman, Brad Taylor, Gregg Hurwitz, and Steve Berry. Visit TheRealBookSpy.com or email him directly at Ryan@TheRealBookSpy for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 23, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ryan Steck, and Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Having enjoyed the Lord Alex Hawke series by Ted Bell, I was not sure where things might go when the author passed away. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Ryan Steck had taken up the cause and penned the lucky thirteenth novel in the series, if only to extend Hawke's adventures a bit. This was surely a great addition to the series, as the new British king has been abducted for reasons as yet unknown. Hawke and his team are sent in to investigate under the radar and return Charles III before it becomes public knowledge. What begins as a simple rescue soon opens up as family trees and a group wanting to open old wounds emerges. How will Hawke handle it all and where are things headed next? All this and more come to light in Steck's great continuation of the well-established series.
Lord Alexander Hawke has never shied away from adventure and dramatic outcomes. His latest mission quelling an attack on the high seas outside of Antarctica is an example of that, though it was also highly costly. The only thing that Hawke needs to salve his wounds is time away from the action at his Teakettle Cottage in Bermuda. However, they say that rest is for the wicked and the lazy, neither of which describe the man. Hawke soon finds himself pulled into a mission that is more than just capturing criminals, but might be the one chance to save the realm from complete disaster.
Longtime friend and former Chief Inspector of Scotland Yard Ambrose Congreve calls on Lord Hawke with sensational news. As Britain is set to watch another vote on Scotland's independence, the new monarch has disappeared from his vacation home at Balmoral Castle. Charles III was apparently abducted while out on a stroll and panic is rife within the British Government. While no one wants to leak it to the press, there is a dire need to find the king before the vote. Hawke is tasked by the new prime minister to locate Charles III within 72 hours or the news will have to come out. Worries that the truth will derail the current Scottish vote are compiled when it is clear that other parts of the British realm are in danger without a clear Head of State.
While Hawke tries to track down the king, news out of Cuba is just as troubling. It appears as though someone has been shipping a highly destructive nerve agent across th Atlantic, with hopes of using it to stir up trouble in Northern Ireland. Hawke's partner, Stokely Jones, will have to use his mental acuity to follow that lead in order to keep the peace and provide some direction. With Charles III and the threat to the British monarchy in trouble, the truth surrounding the kidnapping becomes clear to Hawke. A dissident group claiming that they have the 'true' monarch ready to take the throne stirs up history and old skirmishes with the various Houses involved in the transfer of power during the Stuart era. With time working against them and the vote on the horizon, Lord Hawke will have to work swiftly or face more than personal disappointment. A great addition to the serie that leaves things open to see if Ryan Steck hs more plans for Lord Alex Hawke in the future.
While I am a purist at heart, I realise that, sometimes, a good series cannot end simply when the author passes on. I have seen a mix of great successes and utter failures when new authors arrive to grab the reins. In reading this first novel after Ted Bell has died, I was impressed with how Ryan Steck handled things. His attention to detail is clear in capturing the essence of the piece and adding new angles in the narrative. The foundation of the story mirrors what Bell might have done and delves deeply into the Hawke connection to all things royal. The characters keep their flavrouing and left me feeling as though this was Bell writing. as Steck has been able to keep things moving in ways that are familiar to series fans. The story itself moved along well, with plot points I would expect from the series and keeps the reader on edge as they push through this adventure. I was eager to see what Steck would do and he has not disappointed. I hope there is more Lord Hawke to come and that Ryan Steck remains a part of things. as he 'gets' the Bell nuances and works them well!
Kudos, Mr. Steck, for taking up the torch to shed light on this great series.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Having enjoyed the Lord Alex Hawke series by Ted Bell, I was not sure where things might go when the author passed away. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Ryan Steck had taken up the cause and penned the lucky thirteenth novel in the series, if only to extend Hawke's adventures a bit. This was surely a great addition to the series, as the new British king has been abducted for reasons as yet unknown. Hawke and his team are sent in to investigate under the radar and return Charles III before it becomes public knowledge. What begins as a simple rescue soon opens up as family trees and a group wanting to open old wounds emerges. How will Hawke handle it all and where are things headed next? All this and more come to light in Steck's great continuation of the well-established series.
Lord Alexander Hawke has never shied away from adventure and dramatic outcomes. His latest mission quelling an attack on the high seas outside of Antarctica is an example of that, though it was also highly costly. The only thing that Hawke needs to salve his wounds is time away from the action at his Teakettle Cottage in Bermuda. However, they say that rest is for the wicked and the lazy, neither of which describe the man. Hawke soon finds himself pulled into a mission that is more than just capturing criminals, but might be the one chance to save the realm from complete disaster.
Longtime friend and former Chief Inspector of Scotland Yard Ambrose Congreve calls on Lord Hawke with sensational news. As Britain is set to watch another vote on Scotland's independence, the new monarch has disappeared from his vacation home at Balmoral Castle. Charles III was apparently abducted while out on a stroll and panic is rife within the British Government. While no one wants to leak it to the press, there is a dire need to find the king before the vote. Hawke is tasked by the new prime minister to locate Charles III within 72 hours or the news will have to come out. Worries that the truth will derail the current Scottish vote are compiled when it is clear that other parts of the British realm are in danger without a clear Head of State.
While Hawke tries to track down the king, news out of Cuba is just as troubling. It appears as though someone has been shipping a highly destructive nerve agent across th Atlantic, with hopes of using it to stir up trouble in Northern Ireland. Hawke's partner, Stokely Jones, will have to use his mental acuity to follow that lead in order to keep the peace and provide some direction. With Charles III and the threat to the British monarchy in trouble, the truth surrounding the kidnapping becomes clear to Hawke. A dissident group claiming that they have the 'true' monarch ready to take the throne stirs up history and old skirmishes with the various Houses involved in the transfer of power during the Stuart era. With time working against them and the vote on the horizon, Lord Hawke will have to work swiftly or face more than personal disappointment. A great addition to the serie that leaves things open to see if Ryan Steck hs more plans for Lord Alex Hawke in the future.
While I am a purist at heart, I realise that, sometimes, a good series cannot end simply when the author passes on. I have seen a mix of great successes and utter failures when new authors arrive to grab the reins. In reading this first novel after Ted Bell has died, I was impressed with how Ryan Steck handled things. His attention to detail is clear in capturing the essence of the piece and adding new angles in the narrative. The foundation of the story mirrors what Bell might have done and delves deeply into the Hawke connection to all things royal. The characters keep their flavrouing and left me feeling as though this was Bell writing. as Steck has been able to keep things moving in ways that are familiar to series fans. The story itself moved along well, with plot points I would expect from the series and keeps the reader on edge as they push through this adventure. I was eager to see what Steck would do and he has not disappointed. I hope there is more Lord Hawke to come and that Ryan Steck remains a part of things. as he 'gets' the Bell nuances and works them well!
Kudos, Mr. Steck, for taking up the torch to shed light on this great series.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
April 2, 2025
When I was given the opportunity to review this novel, as a debut author, I
felt wholly inadequate to report on the highly anticipated 13th book in the
beloved Alex Hawke series created by the late Ted Bell. I decided it would
be fitting to employ one I think much better qualified to examine the
incredibly difficult task Ryan Steck was bestowed with—the continuation of
a legend. So then, who best to review it other than Lord Hawke himself…
Ah, readers. I’ve taken a moment from my usual pursuits to offer you my
thoughts on Ted Bell’s Monarch, penned by the capable hands of Ryan Steck. I
feel a certain obligation to weigh in with the forthrightness you’d expect from a
chap who’s stared down despots while keeping his tie impeccably knotted. Let’s
get on with it then. Shall we set the stage first? Do bear with me. The book kicks
off with yours truly lounging at Teakettle Cottage in Bermuda, nursing a glass of
Gosling’s finest and hoping for a quiet spell with my family after a rather bruising
scrap in Antarctica’s ruddy seas. Naturally, peace is a luxury I’m rarely afforded.
The phone rings—Ambrose Congreve, that old fox from Scotland Yard, on the
line with news that could make even a seasoned operative’s blood run cold: King
Charles has vanished from Balmoral Castle, mere days before a vote that could
splinter the United Kingdom like a cheap teacup. The Prime Minister’s got 3 days
before the kingdom descends into chaos, and who do they think to call? Not the
cavalry, but me—Hawke.
Steck, I must say, has a knack for capturing the whirlwind that is my life. He’s
taken the baton from the late, great Ted Bell and run with it, delivering a yarn
that’s as twisty as a Cornish Lane and packed with enough action to keep my old
mates in the SBS nodding approvingly. The plot’s a corker: I’m tasked with
tracking down the missing monarch while dodging a fiendish scheme to gut
London—its past, present, and future. With all the ticks and tocks of a
gentlemen’s game of Clue, the ending’s a brazen collision course of Sherlock
Holmes and Mission Impossible. This finale, I wager, would rob Tom Cruise of his
nerve. It’s the sort of high-stakes caper that demands a stiff upper lip and a
sharper mind—qualities I like to think I bring to the table. The prose crackles like
a fire in a country manor, sharp and swift, propelling you through the chaos with
nary a pause for breath. Steck’s got my voice down pat—Byrdie Bell herself,
Ted’s daughter, says it’s “my dad’s Alex Hawke,” and I’d wager she’s spot on.
There’s a freshness abound, as if I’ve traded my trusty sidearm for something a
bit more modern, yet the soul remains unmistakably mine. What of the action
scenes? Dazzling. Whether I’m tussling with a thug in a Highland glen or
orchestrating a rescue that’d make even James Bond raise an eyebrow, Steck
keeps the pace relentless. Bullets fly, bad guys snarl, and I manage to quip my
way through it all with the charm of a gentleman and the grit of a scrapper. The
supporting cast—Ambrose, Pelham, Stokely—shine as always, their loyalty and
quirks grounding the tale. Steck’s clearly spent time in my world, soaking up the
banter and the brotherhood. The villains, too, are a rather nasty lot, their plot as
tangled as a Gordian knot and twice as diabolical. I won’t spoil the twists—suffice
it to say they kept even me guessing, and I’ve dodged more double-crosses than
I care to count. But then, who has time for introspection when the Crown’s at
stake? It’s a triumph, plain and simple. It’s got the goods Ted always
championed—bullets, babes, and boisterous bad guys—in spades, wrapped in a
package that’s both a nod to my prior exploits and yet a bold new step forward.
The late master himself Nelson DeMille called it “packed with twisting surprises
and a double dose of action,” and I’d say he was underselling it. James Patterson
deems it a rarity—“wit, suspense, and first-class writing”—and I’ll drink to that,
old boy.
Ted Bell’s Monarch hits the shelves on March 25, 2025, and if you’re a fan of
swashbuckling thrillers with a dash of British vaunt, you’d be a fool to miss it.
Steck’s done me proud, and I envision old Ted’s up there, grinning through the
cigar smoke, giving his seal of approval. But I digress. This stack of printed paper
is worth the read, my dear friends. Worth it indeed. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve
a king to find—and a drink to finish.
He who dares, wins.
-Lord Alexander Hawke
Ryan Pote is a veteran Navy pilot and the author of the highly anticipated debut
BLOOD AND TREASURE (Berkley, July 2025). Mark Greaney says it’s “the
must-read debut thriller of 2025” and FirstClue reviews calls it “mandatory”
reading. Follow Ryan on IG/Facebook/X/Goodreads @ryanpotebooks.
Ryanpote.com. BLOOD AND TREASURE is out now for pre-order everywhere
books are sold.
felt wholly inadequate to report on the highly anticipated 13th book in the
beloved Alex Hawke series created by the late Ted Bell. I decided it would
be fitting to employ one I think much better qualified to examine the
incredibly difficult task Ryan Steck was bestowed with—the continuation of
a legend. So then, who best to review it other than Lord Hawke himself…
Ah, readers. I’ve taken a moment from my usual pursuits to offer you my
thoughts on Ted Bell’s Monarch, penned by the capable hands of Ryan Steck. I
feel a certain obligation to weigh in with the forthrightness you’d expect from a
chap who’s stared down despots while keeping his tie impeccably knotted. Let’s
get on with it then. Shall we set the stage first? Do bear with me. The book kicks
off with yours truly lounging at Teakettle Cottage in Bermuda, nursing a glass of
Gosling’s finest and hoping for a quiet spell with my family after a rather bruising
scrap in Antarctica’s ruddy seas. Naturally, peace is a luxury I’m rarely afforded.
The phone rings—Ambrose Congreve, that old fox from Scotland Yard, on the
line with news that could make even a seasoned operative’s blood run cold: King
Charles has vanished from Balmoral Castle, mere days before a vote that could
splinter the United Kingdom like a cheap teacup. The Prime Minister’s got 3 days
before the kingdom descends into chaos, and who do they think to call? Not the
cavalry, but me—Hawke.
Steck, I must say, has a knack for capturing the whirlwind that is my life. He’s
taken the baton from the late, great Ted Bell and run with it, delivering a yarn
that’s as twisty as a Cornish Lane and packed with enough action to keep my old
mates in the SBS nodding approvingly. The plot’s a corker: I’m tasked with
tracking down the missing monarch while dodging a fiendish scheme to gut
London—its past, present, and future. With all the ticks and tocks of a
gentlemen’s game of Clue, the ending’s a brazen collision course of Sherlock
Holmes and Mission Impossible. This finale, I wager, would rob Tom Cruise of his
nerve. It’s the sort of high-stakes caper that demands a stiff upper lip and a
sharper mind—qualities I like to think I bring to the table. The prose crackles like
a fire in a country manor, sharp and swift, propelling you through the chaos with
nary a pause for breath. Steck’s got my voice down pat—Byrdie Bell herself,
Ted’s daughter, says it’s “my dad’s Alex Hawke,” and I’d wager she’s spot on.
There’s a freshness abound, as if I’ve traded my trusty sidearm for something a
bit more modern, yet the soul remains unmistakably mine. What of the action
scenes? Dazzling. Whether I’m tussling with a thug in a Highland glen or
orchestrating a rescue that’d make even James Bond raise an eyebrow, Steck
keeps the pace relentless. Bullets fly, bad guys snarl, and I manage to quip my
way through it all with the charm of a gentleman and the grit of a scrapper. The
supporting cast—Ambrose, Pelham, Stokely—shine as always, their loyalty and
quirks grounding the tale. Steck’s clearly spent time in my world, soaking up the
banter and the brotherhood. The villains, too, are a rather nasty lot, their plot as
tangled as a Gordian knot and twice as diabolical. I won’t spoil the twists—suffice
it to say they kept even me guessing, and I’ve dodged more double-crosses than
I care to count. But then, who has time for introspection when the Crown’s at
stake? It’s a triumph, plain and simple. It’s got the goods Ted always
championed—bullets, babes, and boisterous bad guys—in spades, wrapped in a
package that’s both a nod to my prior exploits and yet a bold new step forward.
The late master himself Nelson DeMille called it “packed with twisting surprises
and a double dose of action,” and I’d say he was underselling it. James Patterson
deems it a rarity—“wit, suspense, and first-class writing”—and I’ll drink to that,
old boy.
Ted Bell’s Monarch hits the shelves on March 25, 2025, and if you’re a fan of
swashbuckling thrillers with a dash of British vaunt, you’d be a fool to miss it.
Steck’s done me proud, and I envision old Ted’s up there, grinning through the
cigar smoke, giving his seal of approval. But I digress. This stack of printed paper
is worth the read, my dear friends. Worth it indeed. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve
a king to find—and a drink to finish.
He who dares, wins.
-Lord Alexander Hawke
Ryan Pote is a veteran Navy pilot and the author of the highly anticipated debut
BLOOD AND TREASURE (Berkley, July 2025). Mark Greaney says it’s “the
must-read debut thriller of 2025” and FirstClue reviews calls it “mandatory”
reading. Follow Ryan on IG/Facebook/X/Goodreads @ryanpotebooks.
Ryanpote.com. BLOOD AND TREASURE is out now for pre-order everywhere
books are sold.
April 4, 2025
Ryan Steck, an author whose own work l already enjoy has taken over Ted Bell's Alex Hawke series and Bell himself couldn't have written it any better.
The characters are all there, and written the way they always have been. When the king is kidnapped who else would they call on other than Hawke?
The characters are all there, and written the way they always have been. When the king is kidnapped who else would they call on other than Hawke?
August 12, 2025
I had given up on this series, but it seems to be back. Still farfetched, but back on track.
July 24, 2025
The Ted Bell, Lord Hawke series, has a similar vibe to the Stuart Woods’ Stone Barrington series…Basically, they both give the readers a taste of how the 1% lives…Also, they both have successfully chose great legacy authors to carry the series on…In “Monarch,” Ryan Steck gives us Lord Hawke, and his usual crew, rescuing King Charles and exposing a plot to end the Windsor Monarchy…Good continuation of the series!
July 25, 2025
unlikely but refreshingly different
April 29, 2025
Roddy McClanahan, the head game keeper at Bemoral, Dylan Fahey of the New Irish Republican Party, Colm Kennedy, Ian Clemens, Pieter van der Berg also known as “Mr. Sten,” and others kidnapped King Charles ahead of the Scottish referendum; the independence vote. They demanded that the King abdicate the crown and to be given to Prince Heinrich Konigstahl, but Charles refused. So, then they planned on detonating a bomb that consisted of a nerve agent known as, Novichok. They had Lennedy and Clemens act as Charles and Roddy to cover their extraction of the King.
Alexander Hawke, Detective Chief Inspector Ambrose Congreve, Harry Brock, Ross Sutherland, and Stokely Jones were charged with finding him and potentially stopping a poison that would kill thousands in London; Westminster Palace. To everyone’s surprise, Hawke and the others successfully did as they were tasks with only losing one person, Sutherland. Who died in a heroic fashion.
In the end, the truth finally came out. It was the now Prime Minister, Steele, who had recruited Rodrick at the University and shared his bed. They got recruited by Steele’s Sociology teacher who was working for the SVR - Russia. Who did this to create chaos and weaken NATO.
Sir David Trulove of the SIS, gave the Prime Minister an out. She would resign as Prime Minister and be subjected to house arrest in a home in the Country for the rest of her life.
————————————-
I hadn’t read the series before reading this book. I did so because I’m a fan of Ryan Steck. I really enjoyed this book. I like how Ryan gave us glimpses of Hawkes past adventures and heroics. Especially for us new reader; it definitely put things into perspective.
My favorite character was Stoke though. He was super cool and a friend everyone needs. Nothing against Alex, but I didn’t quite find him relatable. He was quite snug if I’m being honest. Fearless, but snug, nonetheless.
Can’t wait for the next book. Next year.
I hope it’s enough time to get himself together and marry Anastasia. I don’t get his whole half foot in half foot out.
Great job, Ryan. And as always, thank you for writing.
Alexander Hawke, Detective Chief Inspector Ambrose Congreve, Harry Brock, Ross Sutherland, and Stokely Jones were charged with finding him and potentially stopping a poison that would kill thousands in London; Westminster Palace. To everyone’s surprise, Hawke and the others successfully did as they were tasks with only losing one person, Sutherland. Who died in a heroic fashion.
In the end, the truth finally came out. It was the now Prime Minister, Steele, who had recruited Rodrick at the University and shared his bed. They got recruited by Steele’s Sociology teacher who was working for the SVR - Russia. Who did this to create chaos and weaken NATO.
Sir David Trulove of the SIS, gave the Prime Minister an out. She would resign as Prime Minister and be subjected to house arrest in a home in the Country for the rest of her life.
————————————-
I hadn’t read the series before reading this book. I did so because I’m a fan of Ryan Steck. I really enjoyed this book. I like how Ryan gave us glimpses of Hawkes past adventures and heroics. Especially for us new reader; it definitely put things into perspective.
My favorite character was Stoke though. He was super cool and a friend everyone needs. Nothing against Alex, but I didn’t quite find him relatable. He was quite snug if I’m being honest. Fearless, but snug, nonetheless.
Can’t wait for the next book. Next year.
I hope it’s enough time to get himself together and marry Anastasia. I don’t get his whole half foot in half foot out.
Great job, Ryan. And as always, thank you for writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2025
Great Read.
Alex Hawke is asked by the Inspector General, to find King Charles, who has been kidnapped from Balmoral Castle in a daring plan.
Alex, who had planned on some down time, answers the call and immediately puts into action a plan.
Riveting story with, once again, strong and relatable characters.
Mystery, suspense and non stop action.
Alex Hawke #14????
Alex Hawke is asked by the Inspector General, to find King Charles, who has been kidnapped from Balmoral Castle in a daring plan.
Alex, who had planned on some down time, answers the call and immediately puts into action a plan.
Riveting story with, once again, strong and relatable characters.
Mystery, suspense and non stop action.
Alex Hawke #14????
May 10, 2025
Ryan Steck saves Alex Hawke
Ted Bell's last 3 books were disappointing. Good to OK stories but the inconsistencies really hurt those books. Ryan Steck brings back many old characters. Tommy Quick makes a brief return at the start of the book, which brilliantly finishes the last book. Ross Sutherland is one of those beloved characters that makes a return but, spoiler alert, has a heartbreaking end. Will his end affect Alex’s future decisions? Pippa Guinness makes a big return and looks like she will return in the next book. At the end of the book you wonder what Pippa and Trulove are up to. No good? Who is the mysterious person that visits Pippa in the hospital? Even Alex’s beloved parrot, Sniper, makes an appearance.
Another sort of return is Harry Brock. He was in the previous 3 books but he was only mentioned. His smart-ass comments are gone. His witty banter with Hawke and Stockley were missed. Ryan does a great job bringing him back.
There’s a lot of interesting British monarch history in this book that helps explain this plot. It may be too much for some but I enjoyed it. I’m sure that took a lot of research.
In the prologue, Ryan right away proves he can write the epic battles that were used to reading. He also gives us a jaw dropping ‘who done it’ in the end as only, I thought, Ted Bell could do. Proving that this series is in good hands.
Lastly, the Epilogue wow! It is the most personable Alex Hawke chapter in all 13 books that hits the nail in the head. A man who has endured so much loss and disappointment has a hard time accepting happiness. No wonder he is afraid of committing to Anestasia.
If you were an Alex Hawke fan, come back. You will not be disappointed.
Ted Bell's last 3 books were disappointing. Good to OK stories but the inconsistencies really hurt those books. Ryan Steck brings back many old characters. Tommy Quick makes a brief return at the start of the book, which brilliantly finishes the last book. Ross Sutherland is one of those beloved characters that makes a return but, spoiler alert, has a heartbreaking end. Will his end affect Alex’s future decisions? Pippa Guinness makes a big return and looks like she will return in the next book. At the end of the book you wonder what Pippa and Trulove are up to. No good? Who is the mysterious person that visits Pippa in the hospital? Even Alex’s beloved parrot, Sniper, makes an appearance.
Another sort of return is Harry Brock. He was in the previous 3 books but he was only mentioned. His smart-ass comments are gone. His witty banter with Hawke and Stockley were missed. Ryan does a great job bringing him back.
There’s a lot of interesting British monarch history in this book that helps explain this plot. It may be too much for some but I enjoyed it. I’m sure that took a lot of research.
In the prologue, Ryan right away proves he can write the epic battles that were used to reading. He also gives us a jaw dropping ‘who done it’ in the end as only, I thought, Ted Bell could do. Proving that this series is in good hands.
Lastly, the Epilogue wow! It is the most personable Alex Hawke chapter in all 13 books that hits the nail in the head. A man who has endured so much loss and disappointment has a hard time accepting happiness. No wonder he is afraid of committing to Anestasia.
If you were an Alex Hawke fan, come back. You will not be disappointed.
May 21, 2025
For any thriller lover, Ted Bell's Monarch is a lot of fun. It is a fitting tribute to a giant in the thriller world, Ted Bell, the originator of the successful Alex Hawke series.
Ted Bell became my pandemic reading friend, and his action-packed James Bond type of stories provided a welcome escape during those difficult times. I am far from an expert on Ted Bell, but Ryan Steck seems to have captured Ted Bell's voice and pacing pretty well. I can only imagine wow difficult a task that must have been for Ryan Steck, and he pulls it off magnificently. Monarch has all the twists and turns, exotic locales, plots tying into current events that I remember from Ted Bell, Steck cleverly interjects backstory throughout the novel without disturbing the fast pacing. It is fun to read the prior exploits of Alex Hawke, and imagine how anyone could have survived those adventures in a single lifetime.
My only criticism is that some of the minor characters, especially Harry Brock and Stokely Jones did not seem to be as colorful as I remember them from the Ted Bell novels I had read.
Ted Bell's Monarch comes highly recommended. It is fast-paced, action-packed and quite twisty. It is also a lot of fun. Thanks to Ryan Steck for continuing the series in such a professional and respectful way.
Ted Bell became my pandemic reading friend, and his action-packed James Bond type of stories provided a welcome escape during those difficult times. I am far from an expert on Ted Bell, but Ryan Steck seems to have captured Ted Bell's voice and pacing pretty well. I can only imagine wow difficult a task that must have been for Ryan Steck, and he pulls it off magnificently. Monarch has all the twists and turns, exotic locales, plots tying into current events that I remember from Ted Bell, Steck cleverly interjects backstory throughout the novel without disturbing the fast pacing. It is fun to read the prior exploits of Alex Hawke, and imagine how anyone could have survived those adventures in a single lifetime.
My only criticism is that some of the minor characters, especially Harry Brock and Stokely Jones did not seem to be as colorful as I remember them from the Ted Bell novels I had read.
Ted Bell's Monarch comes highly recommended. It is fast-paced, action-packed and quite twisty. It is also a lot of fun. Thanks to Ryan Steck for continuing the series in such a professional and respectful way.
April 22, 2025
I am a fan of the Alex Hawke series and have read every book of his exploits for over 20 years.
This is not one of my favorite Hawke books. I understand the need for some back story, but I found myself getting bored with so much history of Hawke and his relationships with the characters in this novel.
The crime itself was interesting and the group of bad guys were "bad guys". But the action sometimes felt forced and I felt that Stoke and Harry were added just to be added. Not the team working together to make things right and get the job done in this novel.
Also some of the expressions the author gave Hawke were a bit "over the top". Hawke is an action guy and a hard ass, can't see him saying some of the things that were written in this book! Speaking of action, I felt they omited a couple of crucial answers in this story....what happened (details) during Hawke's hunting spree. What happened to the Prime Minister? What happened to the rest of the bad guys who were involved in the terrorist plot?
Lots of loose ends that I felt needed to tied up instead of so much backstory! But maybe I'm being too hard on Mr. Steck who did a hell of a job keeping the Hawke legend alive for us fans.
Read this book and let me know if you feel the same way!
This is not one of my favorite Hawke books. I understand the need for some back story, but I found myself getting bored with so much history of Hawke and his relationships with the characters in this novel.
The crime itself was interesting and the group of bad guys were "bad guys". But the action sometimes felt forced and I felt that Stoke and Harry were added just to be added. Not the team working together to make things right and get the job done in this novel.
Also some of the expressions the author gave Hawke were a bit "over the top". Hawke is an action guy and a hard ass, can't see him saying some of the things that were written in this book! Speaking of action, I felt they omited a couple of crucial answers in this story....what happened (details) during Hawke's hunting spree. What happened to the Prime Minister? What happened to the rest of the bad guys who were involved in the terrorist plot?
Lots of loose ends that I felt needed to tied up instead of so much backstory! But maybe I'm being too hard on Mr. Steck who did a hell of a job keeping the Hawke legend alive for us fans.
Read this book and let me know if you feel the same way!
December 29, 2024
If anyone could carry on Ted Bell's legacy, it appears Ryan Steck is the one! The last couple Alex Hawke books that the late Ted Bell wrote weren't my favorite and I LOVED this series from the start. Alex Hawke is one of my favorite thriller series characters - his wit combined with his ruthlessness is unmatched. Well, Ryan Steck has fully renewed my interest in this series. From the start, I found myself not wanting to put the book down. The multiple storylines with different characters in different places was done really well. You just knew that somehow they'd all end up in the same place by the end of the book but how they got there was thrilling to read. I really did not want this book to end, and hope that the wait is not TOO long before Mr. Steck writes the next one. I know I am anxiously waiting to see what trouble Alex Hawke gets into next!
Thanks to Net Galley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC. #TedBellsMonarch #NetGalley
Thanks to Net Galley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC. #TedBellsMonarch #NetGalley
June 29, 2025
Ryan Steck did a wonderful job considering the large shoes he had to fill. Great story. I loved the history intertwined with the plot. I can't wait for the next book! I will now check out Ryan's other books as the is the first for me.
April 22, 2025
Excellent job Ryan Steck! You did bring Alex to life and created a wonderful book. Love that all the characters were back, new secrets hinted at and as always endless action. Looking forward to the next one.
June 7, 2025
Ryan Steck really knocked this one out of the park.
Truly was the old solid Lord hawke and Stoke and Congreve,,as if Ted Bell was right here putting them to paper.
Such a great los but Alexander Hawke survived.
Truly was the old solid Lord hawke and Stoke and Congreve,,as if Ted Bell was right here putting them to paper.
Such a great los but Alexander Hawke survived.
May 16, 2025
It is great to see Alex Hawke back again. He is one of my favorites.
March 19, 2025
I recently had the opportunity to read an advance copy of the latest book in Ted Bell's Alex Hawke series. First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ryan Steck, and Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
For the uninitiated, Ted Bell's Alex Hawke series is a New York Times bestselling espionage thriller series following the adventures of MI6 agent, Lord Alexander Hawke, who finds himself embroiled in international intrigue and high-stakes missions. This novel is a continuation of the series by Ryan Steck following the death of Ted Bell in January of 2023. Steck has signed up for a two-book continuation of this series in partnership with Byrdie Bell (who leads the Ted Bell estate) with the Berkley Publishing Group.
I will admit that this was my first foray into the Alex Hawke universe and before reading this I attempted to get a little background on the series so that I could get a better idea of the character so that I could write a proper review of the novel. I noticed that this character is oft-compared to Ian Flemming's vaunted character of James Bond (with both characters being employed by MI6 and being known for their suave demeanor and thrilling missions).
With that comparison being made (a comparison that multiple sources across the interwebs have promoted), the author makes numerous attempts to enforce that comparison in the early part of the book - going so far as to mention the name of James Bond on multiple occasions, mentioning Ian Fleming at one point, and going so far as to how Hawke likes his martinis ("shaken, not stirred" - The phrase "shaken, not stirred" has become synonymous with James Bond, appearing in both Ian Fleming's novels and the film adaptations). Anyone who has done a deeper dive into this phenomenon will come to realize that there is a psychological concept where repeated exposure to information, even if false, increases the likelihood of it being believed, and is known as the illusory truth effect.
Lord Alexander Hawke has never shied away from adventure and dramatic outcomes. His latest mission quelling an attack on the high seas outside of Antarctica is an example of that, though it was also highly costly. The only thing that Hawke needs to salve his wounds is time away from the action at his Teakettle Cottage in Bermuda. However, they say that rest is for the wicked and the lazy, neither of which describes the man. Hawke soon finds himself pulled into a mission that is more than just capturing criminals, but might be the one chance to save the realm from complete disaster.
Longtime friend and former Chief Inspector of Scotland Yard Ambrose Congreve calls on Lord Hawke with sensational news. As Britain is set to watch another vote on Scotland's independence, the new monarch has disappeared from his vacation home at Balmoral Castle. Charles III was apparently abducted while out on a stroll and panic is rife within the British Government. While no one wants to leak it to the press, there is a dire need to find the king before the vote. Hawke is tasked by the new prime minister to locate Charles III within 72 hours or the news will have to come out. Worries that the truth will derail the current Scottish vote are compiled when it is clear that other parts of the British realm are in danger without a clear Head of State.
While Hawke tries to track down the king, news out of Cuba is just as troubling. It appears as though someone has been shipping a highly destructive nerve agent across the Atlantic, with hopes of using it to stir up trouble in Northern Ireland. This nerve agent is identified as Novichok (which is a Russian word (Новичо́к) that is loosely translated as 'newcomer, novice, or newbie') and is a family of nerve agents, some of which are binary chemical weapons. The agents were originally developed at the GosNIIOKhT state chemical research institute by the Soviet Union and Russia between 1971 and 1993. Novichok agents are organophosphate nerve agents. Chemically, they are similar to the V series of organophosphate agents, which includes VX, and the G series, which includes sarin. The effect of the Novichok nerve agent, like other nerve agents, is that it irreversibly binds acetylcholinesterase and produces a cholinergic toxidrome. Uniquely, these agents are thought to also target neurons in the peripheral nervous system.
As a background, Novichok agents came to public attention in the twenty-first century after they were used to poison opponents of the Russian government, including the Skripals and two others in Amesbury, UK (2018), as well as Alexei Navalny (2020), but Russian civil poisonings with this substance have been known since at least 1995. As in the book, some of these agents are binary weapons, in which precursors for the nerve agents are mixed in a munition to produce the agent just prior to its use. The precursors are generally significantly less hazardous than the agents themselves, so this technique makes handling and transporting the munitions a great deal simpler. Additionally, precursors to the agents are usually much easier to stabilize than the agents themselves, so this technique also makes it possible to increase the shelf life of the agents.
Hawke's partner, Stokely Jones, will have to use his mental acuity to follow that lead to keep the peace and provide some direction. With Charles III and the threat to the British monarchy in trouble, the truth surrounding the kidnapping soon becomes clear to Hawke. A dissident group claiming that they have the 'true' monarch ready to take the throne stirs up history and old skirmishes with the various Houses involved in the transfer of power during the Stuart era. With time working against them and the vote on the horizon, Lord Hawke will have to work swiftly or face more than personal disappointment.
On my self-determined five-star rating scale, I would give this book a solid four stars as I found the action to be dazzling. The supporting cast of the Lord Alexander Hawke series—Ambrose, Pelham, Stokely— continue to shine as always, with their loyalty and quirks grounding the book in the well-known world fans have come to adore. I believe that this series would be enjoyed by action and adventure aficionados who also enjoy authors such as Brad Thor, Gregg Hurwitz, Jack Carr, Brad Taylor, and Joshua Hood.
As with most of my reviews, this is just my five cents worth.
For the uninitiated, Ted Bell's Alex Hawke series is a New York Times bestselling espionage thriller series following the adventures of MI6 agent, Lord Alexander Hawke, who finds himself embroiled in international intrigue and high-stakes missions. This novel is a continuation of the series by Ryan Steck following the death of Ted Bell in January of 2023. Steck has signed up for a two-book continuation of this series in partnership with Byrdie Bell (who leads the Ted Bell estate) with the Berkley Publishing Group.
I will admit that this was my first foray into the Alex Hawke universe and before reading this I attempted to get a little background on the series so that I could get a better idea of the character so that I could write a proper review of the novel. I noticed that this character is oft-compared to Ian Flemming's vaunted character of James Bond (with both characters being employed by MI6 and being known for their suave demeanor and thrilling missions).
With that comparison being made (a comparison that multiple sources across the interwebs have promoted), the author makes numerous attempts to enforce that comparison in the early part of the book - going so far as to mention the name of James Bond on multiple occasions, mentioning Ian Fleming at one point, and going so far as to how Hawke likes his martinis ("shaken, not stirred" - The phrase "shaken, not stirred" has become synonymous with James Bond, appearing in both Ian Fleming's novels and the film adaptations). Anyone who has done a deeper dive into this phenomenon will come to realize that there is a psychological concept where repeated exposure to information, even if false, increases the likelihood of it being believed, and is known as the illusory truth effect.
Lord Alexander Hawke has never shied away from adventure and dramatic outcomes. His latest mission quelling an attack on the high seas outside of Antarctica is an example of that, though it was also highly costly. The only thing that Hawke needs to salve his wounds is time away from the action at his Teakettle Cottage in Bermuda. However, they say that rest is for the wicked and the lazy, neither of which describes the man. Hawke soon finds himself pulled into a mission that is more than just capturing criminals, but might be the one chance to save the realm from complete disaster.
Longtime friend and former Chief Inspector of Scotland Yard Ambrose Congreve calls on Lord Hawke with sensational news. As Britain is set to watch another vote on Scotland's independence, the new monarch has disappeared from his vacation home at Balmoral Castle. Charles III was apparently abducted while out on a stroll and panic is rife within the British Government. While no one wants to leak it to the press, there is a dire need to find the king before the vote. Hawke is tasked by the new prime minister to locate Charles III within 72 hours or the news will have to come out. Worries that the truth will derail the current Scottish vote are compiled when it is clear that other parts of the British realm are in danger without a clear Head of State.
While Hawke tries to track down the king, news out of Cuba is just as troubling. It appears as though someone has been shipping a highly destructive nerve agent across the Atlantic, with hopes of using it to stir up trouble in Northern Ireland. This nerve agent is identified as Novichok (which is a Russian word (Новичо́к) that is loosely translated as 'newcomer, novice, or newbie') and is a family of nerve agents, some of which are binary chemical weapons. The agents were originally developed at the GosNIIOKhT state chemical research institute by the Soviet Union and Russia between 1971 and 1993. Novichok agents are organophosphate nerve agents. Chemically, they are similar to the V series of organophosphate agents, which includes VX, and the G series, which includes sarin. The effect of the Novichok nerve agent, like other nerve agents, is that it irreversibly binds acetylcholinesterase and produces a cholinergic toxidrome. Uniquely, these agents are thought to also target neurons in the peripheral nervous system.
As a background, Novichok agents came to public attention in the twenty-first century after they were used to poison opponents of the Russian government, including the Skripals and two others in Amesbury, UK (2018), as well as Alexei Navalny (2020), but Russian civil poisonings with this substance have been known since at least 1995. As in the book, some of these agents are binary weapons, in which precursors for the nerve agents are mixed in a munition to produce the agent just prior to its use. The precursors are generally significantly less hazardous than the agents themselves, so this technique makes handling and transporting the munitions a great deal simpler. Additionally, precursors to the agents are usually much easier to stabilize than the agents themselves, so this technique also makes it possible to increase the shelf life of the agents.
Hawke's partner, Stokely Jones, will have to use his mental acuity to follow that lead to keep the peace and provide some direction. With Charles III and the threat to the British monarchy in trouble, the truth surrounding the kidnapping soon becomes clear to Hawke. A dissident group claiming that they have the 'true' monarch ready to take the throne stirs up history and old skirmishes with the various Houses involved in the transfer of power during the Stuart era. With time working against them and the vote on the horizon, Lord Hawke will have to work swiftly or face more than personal disappointment.
On my self-determined five-star rating scale, I would give this book a solid four stars as I found the action to be dazzling. The supporting cast of the Lord Alexander Hawke series—Ambrose, Pelham, Stokely— continue to shine as always, with their loyalty and quirks grounding the book in the well-known world fans have come to adore. I believe that this series would be enjoyed by action and adventure aficionados who also enjoy authors such as Brad Thor, Gregg Hurwitz, Jack Carr, Brad Taylor, and Joshua Hood.
As with most of my reviews, this is just my five cents worth.
March 27, 2025
Ryan Steck did it. He took the torch passed by Ted Bell and revived Alex Hawke and I was so ready for it. The pacing is great and had me guessing what would happen next (and fortunately, I wasn’t often right). Steck takes you by the hand and shows you the steps in this tango and when you close your eyes, you feel like you’re dancing with Ted.
But this isn’t just a rehash of Ted Bell. Steck writes a good story that had me looking for opportunities to read… I wanted to sit and see what would happen next. I didn’t want to put it down.
Ryan Steck robbed peaceful sleep time from me as I read late into the night… just one more page.
I’ve loved Ted Bell’s work. He got me back into reading as an adult. And now I feel confident that Alex Hawke didn’t leave us when Ted did. I feel confident we’ll have more dances with Alex Hawke… a future I want with the Alex Hawke story continuing.
Keep it coming! Long live Alexander Hawke!
But this isn’t just a rehash of Ted Bell. Steck writes a good story that had me looking for opportunities to read… I wanted to sit and see what would happen next. I didn’t want to put it down.
Ryan Steck robbed peaceful sleep time from me as I read late into the night… just one more page.
I’ve loved Ted Bell’s work. He got me back into reading as an adult. And now I feel confident that Alex Hawke didn’t leave us when Ted did. I feel confident we’ll have more dances with Alex Hawke… a future I want with the Alex Hawke story continuing.
Keep it coming! Long live Alexander Hawke!
May 6, 2025
I've never read any of Ryan Steck's work before. I cannot tell you he has the talent to write an engaging story. His pacing is efficient; however, he struggles to convey Alex Hawke's personality effectively. Hawke feels slightly off—the character's usual nuance and sharpness are nowhere to be seen. Some scenes are superfluous, adding little more than filler to the plot. It’s tough to pinpoint exactly what went wrong. The characters are unconvincing, and the absurd plot often overshadows the thrilling potential of a classic spy story.
Don't get me wrong—Monarch isn't completely terrible. I've read significantly worse thrillers. I just had high hopes for this book and was inevitably disappointed with the execution. Even the most loyal Alex Hawke fans are unlikely to be pleased with it.
Find my full review at https://www.coffeeaddictedwriter.com/....
Don't get me wrong—Monarch isn't completely terrible. I've read significantly worse thrillers. I just had high hopes for this book and was inevitably disappointed with the execution. Even the most loyal Alex Hawke fans are unlikely to be pleased with it.
Find my full review at https://www.coffeeaddictedwriter.com/....
March 21, 2025
Basically retooling the 1970s formula and punching into the early 1980s, ROCKY III nonetheless clung to the tragedy-as-motivator hook and brought in a meaner, bigger, and better opponent for Balboa. The peak Laurence Tureaud, aka Mr. T, notwithstanding, the third installment of the classic Stallone self-love-fest further benefited from the return of Carl Weathers' Apollo Creed, taking Rocky back to the roots of fighting, ditching the destructive financial trappings of the game, and recapturing the hunger to win. The promissory note for training Rocky gave Apollo the privilege of a rematch in the squared circle. No refs, no cameras, no rules. Just two fighters and the Bell. "Ding Ding". A long time protege of author Ted Bell has picked up the pieces and pen, resulting in the continuation of the saga of Alex Hawke, sounding the drums of war once again. As an elaborate scheme gets rolling nigh the eve of the Scottish referendum concerning their membership in the UK, for whom the bell tolls is none other than a missing MONARCH. In fact, THE monarch, King Charles III, and it's up to 'the Warlord' Alex Hawke to face off against a ruthless mastermind, prevent global disaster, and save the King in the NICK OF TIME.
The feral accipitrine that's set on the trail of the baddies in MONARCH is none other than Lord of Hawkesmoor, better known to Ted Bell's loyal readers as Alex Hawke. A creature of radiant violence and naturally good at war, Hawke is a firearms expert, a master of unarmed combat, and a war-time naval aviator to make Maverick turn green with envy. Lord Hawke, the Warlord can do just about everything, except divide by zero--that is exclusively the realm of Chuck Norris. Nary ten pages in, even discounting the merry band of marauders monikered with 'Thunder and Lightning', all former Navy SEALs, MONARCH already jumps the shark with proclaiming that Lord Alexander Hawke's good friend is the "eccentric south African billionaire innovator" who, like a good stand-in for Blofeld or some such, loaned Hawke the "green monster", a free-electron laser that can cut an aircraft carrier in half. It's laser vs rail gun. Good vs evil. The US vs China. It's MASTER AND COMMANDER meets CRIMSON TIDE. MONARCH turns into a decent yarn if you can ignore the first few chapters of Navy SEAL simping and convoluted naval surface warfare. And it's safe to do so. Just like the first ten minutes of a cheeseball 80s, early 90s action flick, designed to captivate and engage the audience and set up bona fides. Not necessary. What follows after that display can stand on its own as good SpyThrill entertainment, somewhat like a JOE PICKETT story, if Montana is subbed out with the Scottish Highlands. Married to the job, the sixth richest man in England ditches the yacht and forgets the red menace conglomerate pitched against the free world for more pressing matters; a sinister scheme against the MONARCH to send ripples of chaos through the Western world to advance a global political agenda.
Just like the ROGUE WARRIOR believed in the therapeutic properties of Bombay's Gin, Alex Hawke, direct descendant of a British high seas scoundrel (suppose it's okay to be a pirate as long as it's not like, Ethiopians), has a penchant for Gosling's Black Seal Rum and a nose for rogue action, as someone is wont to be at the tender age of thirty-eight. Thrown into this heady mix are elements of Agatha Christie and THE CELESTINE PROPHECY, just without the verve of the former or the chumminess of the latter. Despite presenting a good story and pace, at times, MONARCH unfortunately reads like an American trying to write like a Briton. There is an ocean of difference between this novel and say, Ian Fleming, Frederick Forsyth, Craig Thomas, John Le Carre, or Jack Higgins. Moreover, unlike novels like Bill Clinton & James Patterson's THE PRESIDENT IS MISSING or THE PRESIDENT'S DAUGHTER, a missing British monarch doesn't give the same feel of impact on geopolitical affairs as does anything affecting the US president. That said, MONARCH however really shines when (fictional) King Charles is in action, as the dialogue featuring his highness is utterly entertaining. In fact, MONARCH gets rather good about one third into the story, with a particularly satisfying high-point at the end of Chapter 41. Somewhere between THE KING'S MAN, Cussler's Dirk Pitt and a wacky James Bond, MONARCH is nonetheless a fine book of international intrigue, spy stuff, and good old American action. Cast in the light of a traditional globetrotting England-saving escapade, MONARCH features interesting minutiae aplenty, including an interesting catch-up on English throne succession and royalty, and glorious shoutouts to BLACK SABBATH, George W. Bush, COLUMBO, HAROLD AND KUMAR GO TO WHITE CASTLE, George RR Martin, and, ofc, TOP GUN. Picking up where Ted Bell left off, MONARCH has a pair of Sherlock Holmesian cops, the James Bond-like protagonist, Novichok, Cuban agitators, a British monarch, a German castle, though 'Muhahahahahaha', no scar-face baddie with a white Persian cat lap-warmer. There could've been. Pulling readers deep into an ominous global affair and relentless adventure, MONARCH is a fiendish plot that reminds to remember the fifth of November--a glorious pulp spy thriller of Herculean proportions.
Big thank you to Ryan Steck, NetGalley, Berkley and Penguin Random House for the ARC.
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April 16, 2025I have not read any books on the Hawke character, but this book has spiked my interest to do so. Kept me engaged, and trying to solve the mystery. Had me on the edge of my seat, and even a few tears. And the ending was all surprise for me, although I should have known!! There is alot of technical and history that frankly bores me, but we needed for the story and did well!
April 4, 2025
A lot of action, but something was missing.
This book was a typical Ted Bell book with a lot of action and twist to this story. But it is still missing something, and that something just made the story unbelievable.
This book was a typical Ted Bell book with a lot of action and twist to this story. But it is still missing something, and that something just made the story unbelievable.
April 14, 2025
I believe Steck has done an incredible job capturing Ted Bell’s Alex Hawke character and swashbuckling style. I believe the Alex Hawke books are in very capable hands by someone who loves this character as much as we the readers do.
August 17, 2025
Fans of the late Ted Bell will be thrilled to know that Alex Hawke is back and the series is in good hands! Mr. Bell’s daughter, Birdie chose Bell’s long time editor, fellow author and friend, Ryan Steck to continue this series and what a wise choice that was! The avid sailor in me was hooked in the opening pages where we find Lord Hawke commanding his treasured sailing vessel in an overwhelming naval battle that jumps off the pages. And that’s just the beginning. A daring political conspiracy threatens the British monarchy and Hawke is called into action. We follow Hawke all over Great Britain and Europe as he, once again, must balance his family life with his devotion to country and crown in an epic page-turning adventure. Author Ryan Steck captures the essence of Hawke and all things England from the landscape to the colloquialisms and dialogue while leaving the reader breathlessly entertained. As Hawke would say; “Well done, old boy!”
September 8, 2025
This was an accidental read. My partner has a bookstore, and Monarch came in without a printed cover. Since he couldn't sell it, he brought it home to read. I kept teasing him about his "secretive" cover and that it must be tantalizing. Then my mother read it, looking for the tantalizing parts, and even after she finally realized it was a joke, she thoroughly enjoyed the story. She then left it on my to-be-read pile, and I finally read it myself. I have not read other books in the Alex Hawke series. I did read Ted Bell's The One Man and loved it. Ryan Steck, the current author of the Alex Hawke series, wrote a moving tribute to Ted Bell in the back of the book. Be sure to read it. It provides insight into his respect and love for Ted and for the writing process. I wish Ryan Steck a long career, whether he continues to write Alex Hawke adventures or returns to his own storylines.
May 4, 2025
finished 4th may 202 good read three stars i liked it no less no more kindle library loaner first from steck ryan for me a continuation of a series by bell ted who passed recently, alexander hawke #13 entertaining story set in the united kingdom, england scotland ireland cuba bavaria other places although it begins with a scene from near antartica warfare on the open sea and then moves north. king charles is abducted beneath the noses of his protective detail. who's behind it and where is the kind? other events are transpiring, and, in the end, they are related. i'll have to check out more from bell ted and steck ryan.
April 10, 2025
(2 1/2). Ryan Steck has done an admirable job taking over the Ted Bell Alexander Hawke franchise. My only problem is that I was never that in love with the craziness of this series before, and I still am a little lukewarm on it now. The action is mostly wonderful, some great escapes and some really good scenes, but all the history and English culture I find very boring, so I did give a thought to 2 stars. In the end, I still like Alex too much as a striking protagonist, even if he such a strong Superman type. A little long, mostly good fun and I may read another. Pretty good stuff.
April 13, 2025
Disappointing! The book starts with Hawke choosing to take his "yacht" with numerous sailors into a ridiculous naval battle, where a vast majority of his crew die. All for his ego. There are 3 "interconnected" stories, however, the author does a very poor job of pulling them together. There are large gaps in the story. Hawke is becoming ruthless, vengeful, and mean. He keeps proclaiming himself as a "warrior", which gives him the right to kill. His moral compass is becoming skewed in the wrong direction. This may be the last book I read of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2025
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June 3, 2025
Really good addition to the Alex Hawks series.
Bell's characters are alive and well in the hands and mind of Steck.
Alex is tasked with finding the missing King of England.
Usual tension, twists and ongoing suspense.
Prepare to to keep guessing
Good story for sure - a bit too much history at times, for me,
but worth the read.
Bell's characters are alive and well in the hands and mind of Steck.
Alex is tasked with finding the missing King of England.
Usual tension, twists and ongoing suspense.
Prepare to to keep guessing
Good story for sure - a bit too much history at times, for me,
but worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews