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Assassins Anonymous #2
The Medusa Protocol
Welcome back to Assassins Anonymous, the only twelve-step group where joining can be deadly.
When Astrid, known in her assassin days as Azrael, stopped showing up to Assassins Anonymous, the group assumed her past had caught up with her. Only her sponsor Mark, formerly the deadliest killer in the world, holds out hope that she’s okay. Then, during a meeting, the group gets a sign, or rather, a pizza delivery. Is there another psychopath out there who actually likes olives on their pizza, or is Astrid trying to send Mark a message?
Meanwhile, Astrid wakes up in the cell of a black site prison, on a remote island. A doctor subjects her to mysterious experiments, plumbing the depths of her memory and looking for a vital clue from her past. She’ll do anything to escape, except…killing anyone. Hmm. Turns out it’s not easy to blow this joint without blowing anything, or anyone up.
When Astrid, known in her assassin days as Azrael, stopped showing up to Assassins Anonymous, the group assumed her past had caught up with her. Only her sponsor Mark, formerly the deadliest killer in the world, holds out hope that she’s okay. Then, during a meeting, the group gets a sign, or rather, a pizza delivery. Is there another psychopath out there who actually likes olives on their pizza, or is Astrid trying to send Mark a message?
Meanwhile, Astrid wakes up in the cell of a black site prison, on a remote island. A doctor subjects her to mysterious experiments, plumbing the depths of her memory and looking for a vital clue from her past. She’ll do anything to escape, except…killing anyone. Hmm. Turns out it’s not easy to blow this joint without blowing anything, or anyone up.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published June 24, 2025
123 people are currently reading
7873 people want to read
About the author
Rob Hart
58 books1,050 followersRob Hart is the author of the USA TODAY bestseller ASSASSINS ANONYMOUS. He also wrote THE PARADOX HOTEL, which was nominated for. Lambda Literary Award, as well as THE WAREHOUSE, which has been sold in more than 20 countries. He also wrote the Ash McKenna crime series, the short story collection TAKE-OUT, the novella SCOTT FREE with James Patterson, and, with Alex Segura, the comic book BLOOD OATH and the novel DARK SPACE.
His short stories have been published widely, including “Due on Batuu,” set in the Star Wars universe, which appeared in FROM A CERTAIN POINT OF VIEW: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, and "Take-Out," which appeared in BEST AMERICAN MYSTERY STORIES 2018.
He’s worked as a political reporter, the communications director for a politician, and a commissioner for the city of New York. He is the former publisher at MysteriousPress.com and class director at LitReactor. He lives in Jersey City.
His short stories have been published widely, including “Due on Batuu,” set in the Star Wars universe, which appeared in FROM A CERTAIN POINT OF VIEW: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, and "Take-Out," which appeared in BEST AMERICAN MYSTERY STORIES 2018.
He’s worked as a political reporter, the communications director for a politician, and a commissioner for the city of New York. He is the former publisher at MysteriousPress.com and class director at LitReactor. He lives in Jersey City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 360 reviews
June 21, 2025
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, come to Assassins Anonymous with Mark, Astrid, Booker, Valencia, and Ms. Nguyen.
The Medusa Protocol
by Rob Hart is unique and filled with dark wit, action, and thrills. When Astrid stopped showing up for meetings most of the group in Manhattan thought her past had caught up with her. Only Mark, her sponsor, hopes that she is somehow alive. During the latest meeting, a special pizza delivery arrives with olives on it. Only Astrid liked olives. Is she trying to send them a message?
Meanwhile, Astrid wakes up in a cell in a black site prison on a remote island. A doctor subjects her to mysterious memory experiments looking for a clue from her past. She’ll do anything except kill anyone to escape. Can it be done?
Astrid tends to only trust herself and is deeply suspect of all men. However, she and Mark have become friends of a sort. She’s also feeling somewhat vulnerable and having a hard time forgiving herself. However, she is committed to giving up killing others. Mark is the leader of the group and was one of the most feared assassins on earth. He is still stuck on step eight, making amends.
This is a high-energy and dynamic story with points of view from both Mark and Astrid. There are also some well-labeled flashback scenes to events in Astrid’s past. Which one of them is related to her capture? The story is full of travel, adventure, poisonous snakes, non-lethal weapons, an evil doctor, a harrowing helicopter ride, and unusual friendships. Rob Hart has the ability to create dialogue that has readers laughing and engaging with the characters as they fly through the pages.
The author does a great job on giving readers a sense of place as well as giving the main characters depth. The plot has plenty of twists and turns with some surprises along the way. There are also some subtle hints that makes this thought provoking as well. The pace is fast and readers are in for a wild ride. Actions have consequences, found family, unlikely friendships, and more themes run through the story.
Overall, this is an intriguing, fun, suspenseful, and action-filled thriller with dark wit, a great sense of place, and a unique premise. I am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book and which assassin will be the focus of it. This novel works as a standalone novel, but readers will get more background and backstories if they start with book one.
PENGUIN GROUP Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Rob Hart provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for June 24, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------------
My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Meanwhile, Astrid wakes up in a cell in a black site prison on a remote island. A doctor subjects her to mysterious memory experiments looking for a clue from her past. She’ll do anything except kill anyone to escape. Can it be done?
Astrid tends to only trust herself and is deeply suspect of all men. However, she and Mark have become friends of a sort. She’s also feeling somewhat vulnerable and having a hard time forgiving herself. However, she is committed to giving up killing others. Mark is the leader of the group and was one of the most feared assassins on earth. He is still stuck on step eight, making amends.
This is a high-energy and dynamic story with points of view from both Mark and Astrid. There are also some well-labeled flashback scenes to events in Astrid’s past. Which one of them is related to her capture? The story is full of travel, adventure, poisonous snakes, non-lethal weapons, an evil doctor, a harrowing helicopter ride, and unusual friendships. Rob Hart has the ability to create dialogue that has readers laughing and engaging with the characters as they fly through the pages.
The author does a great job on giving readers a sense of place as well as giving the main characters depth. The plot has plenty of twists and turns with some surprises along the way. There are also some subtle hints that makes this thought provoking as well. The pace is fast and readers are in for a wild ride. Actions have consequences, found family, unlikely friendships, and more themes run through the story.
Overall, this is an intriguing, fun, suspenseful, and action-filled thriller with dark wit, a great sense of place, and a unique premise. I am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book and which assassin will be the focus of it. This novel works as a standalone novel, but readers will get more background and backstories if they start with book one.
PENGUIN GROUP Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Rob Hart provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for June 24, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------------
My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
June 26, 2025
I prefer the first book but this was a lot of fun!
It played out pretty much like an action movie. However, I wish it were longer :/ I blinked and it was over😅 I still love the characters though and the found family vibes are so good and unique (world renowned and feared assassins coming together to form an unlikely family is so strange but works so well here!)
Hopefully there will be another installment and can't wait for the movie adaptation!!!! I have a feeling these will be like the new John Wick universe 🤜🤜
It played out pretty much like an action movie. However, I wish it were longer :/ I blinked and it was over😅 I still love the characters though and the found family vibes are so good and unique (world renowned and feared assassins coming together to form an unlikely family is so strange but works so well here!)
Hopefully there will be another installment and can't wait for the movie adaptation!!!! I have a feeling these will be like the new John Wick universe 🤜🤜
May 5, 2025
***Thank you to PENGUIN GROUP Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons and NetGalley for this ARC.***
Astrid FKA The Angel of Death is a retired assassin who’s been kill-free for several months after meeting Mark, the former best hitman in the world and now her 12-step sponsor. Unfortunately, she hasn’t shown up to Assassins Anonymous in several weeks - no fault of her own - as she’s trapped in a black site prison on a remote island that’s overrun with poisonous snakes. It turns out Astrid's clapped a lot of people, some of them important, and her past has finally caught up to her. She needs a way out of the 10th circle of hell before she’s offed by her captor or fellow prisoners, which would be a lot easier if she could kill.
After a cryptic pizza delivery and violent altercation that destroys the group’s meeting spot, Mark and Booker - a fellow AA comrade - set out to rescue Astrid once they secure some nonfatal weapons and a sitter for Mark’s cat. The humor is dark and the action is packed, with psychological torture, venom injections, and the return of Mark’s one-eared nemesis. I could have gone without the baby plot-line (have to draw the line on the absurdity somewhere), but I guess there should be one character who hasn’t killed anyone, yet.
As ridiculous as its predecessor, but just as enjoyable, this 2nd installment is a fun and effective distraction should you find yourself HALTing, the AssAn acronym for hungry, angry, lonely, tired. Assassins - they’re just like us!
Astrid FKA The Angel of Death is a retired assassin who’s been kill-free for several months after meeting Mark, the former best hitman in the world and now her 12-step sponsor. Unfortunately, she hasn’t shown up to Assassins Anonymous in several weeks - no fault of her own - as she’s trapped in a black site prison on a remote island that’s overrun with poisonous snakes. It turns out Astrid's clapped a lot of people, some of them important, and her past has finally caught up to her. She needs a way out of the 10th circle of hell before she’s offed by her captor or fellow prisoners, which would be a lot easier if she could kill.
After a cryptic pizza delivery and violent altercation that destroys the group’s meeting spot, Mark and Booker - a fellow AA comrade - set out to rescue Astrid once they secure some nonfatal weapons and a sitter for Mark’s cat. The humor is dark and the action is packed, with psychological torture, venom injections, and the return of Mark’s one-eared nemesis. I could have gone without the baby plot-line (have to draw the line on the absurdity somewhere), but I guess there should be one character who hasn’t killed anyone, yet.
As ridiculous as its predecessor, but just as enjoyable, this 2nd installment is a fun and effective distraction should you find yourself HALTing, the AssAn acronym for hungry, angry, lonely, tired. Assassins - they’re just like us!
June 9, 2025
MARK IS BACK!!!!! And boy am i glad, I didn't get into this one as much as the first, but still a top recommendation from me.
So Astrid has gone missing and the AA team in on the hunt to find out what's happened to her. As she comes to terms with her past; Astrid is still fighting demons and wonders if sobriety is in the cards for her!
Thanks to G.P Putnam's for this ARC, such a fan of this series, bring on BOOK 3!!!!! I'm so thankful
Solid 4 stars!!!!
"THE MEDUSA PROTOCOL" out June 24th 2025!
So Astrid has gone missing and the AA team in on the hunt to find out what's happened to her. As she comes to terms with her past; Astrid is still fighting demons and wonders if sobriety is in the cards for her!
Thanks to G.P Putnam's for this ARC, such a fan of this series, bring on BOOK 3!!!!! I'm so thankful
Solid 4 stars!!!!
"THE MEDUSA PROTOCOL" out June 24th 2025!
June 29, 2025
Update 6/24/25: Reposting my review to celebrate that today is publication day!
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for sending me an ARC of The Medusa Protocol in exchange for an honest review.
The Goodreads description of this book tells you everything you need to know about the plot, so I’ll jump directly to my thoughts.
The Medusa Protocol takes place about a year and a half after the end of the first book in this series, Assassins Anonymous. All the characters who survived that story are back here, with several new ones thrown in. The story moves between three timelines: Mark’s present-day perspective, as he tries to find Astrid; Astrid’s present-day perspective, as she tries to understand and escape her predicament; and Astrid’s past, as we see various turning points that might explain who is holding her prisoner and why.
As with Assassins Anonymous, The Medusa Protocol works on a number of levels. There’s the mystery of what’s happening to Astrid and why. There are the thriller aspects of the attempts to free her. But mostly the story works because both Mark and Astrid are engaging characters, and the more you learn of Astrid’s backstory, the more you care about what happens to her character. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series. Recommended.
Whoever it is, they’re walking into a room of trained killers.
Reformed, sure, but still not a smart move.
…
“He saw the world for what it could be. I saw the world for what it wasn’t.”
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for sending me an ARC of The Medusa Protocol in exchange for an honest review.
The Goodreads description of this book tells you everything you need to know about the plot, so I’ll jump directly to my thoughts.
The Medusa Protocol takes place about a year and a half after the end of the first book in this series, Assassins Anonymous. All the characters who survived that story are back here, with several new ones thrown in. The story moves between three timelines: Mark’s present-day perspective, as he tries to find Astrid; Astrid’s present-day perspective, as she tries to understand and escape her predicament; and Astrid’s past, as we see various turning points that might explain who is holding her prisoner and why.
As with Assassins Anonymous, The Medusa Protocol works on a number of levels. There’s the mystery of what’s happening to Astrid and why. There are the thriller aspects of the attempts to free her. But mostly the story works because both Mark and Astrid are engaging characters, and the more you learn of Astrid’s backstory, the more you care about what happens to her character. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series. Recommended.
July 25, 2025
**Slightly spoilery**
First off, I had a BLAST with this book. Rob Hart’s action-packed world possesses this unusual view of death and life with huge doses of humor and love. I rooted for these characters and laughed with them and at them. Simply put...I loved spending time with these ex-killers again.
The Medusa Protocol is book 2 in Rob Hart’s Assassins Anonymous world. A world where killers wishing to put down the blade and change their ways meet up and support each other. The group is based on the Alcoholics Anonymous model, but here their battle is with killing. They’re all trying not to take another life. Can Mark, Booker, Valencia, and more keep their sobriety intake? Even when Astrid, one of their own is threatened? How can a former assassin defend him or herself from someone out for their blood if they can’t kill? Let the creative weaponry and fun begin!
So, let’s get to the “but”. You could feel it coming, right? Let’s just do it! A couple of points keep bouncing around my head. Yes, I realize the action is all in fun and I’m over thinking, but a couple of things are still bugging me. One is the . There is an agreement between two characters in this book that just doesn’t sit right with me or the spirit of what the group is working towards. In all fairness, that is said on the page—that it might not gel with the spirit of the group. But it’s more than that. At one point, Mark utters these words to an adversary as the fight between them appears to turn Mark’s way… “I want you to know that this whole thing here wasn’t personal, and if you decide to make it that, that’s going to be a you problem.” Meaning, don't blame me. Shouldn’t that have been the same policy for Lavigne then? The agreement didn't feel like an amends. It felt like hurting someone for revenge. Plus, Lavigne is in recovery too. The whole agreement soured the group’s goals for me. BUT. Haha... On the other hand, “Bravo!” to Hart. I adore a book with gray areas to debate and discuss.
There is another issue that’s bothering me though. This line from Mark… “I used to bring death. Now, I grant you life.” Grant you? That’s a bit too close to Mark’s “god-energy” for my taste. Isn’t that the energy he’s trying to quit? Or maybe that’s Mark just being an asshole? I say that with love. :)
All that said, I truly loved this book. The two points of views and timelines came together to form one hell of a journey. The action was fast, fun, and explosive. Plus, any book that keeps me thinking and fussing over long after I close it is a win in my book.
This hidden world full of killers, clients, and secrets comes to light on the page with pain and consequences. In many ways, it’s a society like any other full of gossip, egos, assholes, and support. But it’s also a world where the cost of business could be your soul. Good thing Assassins Anonymous is around to lighten things up, cause mayhem, and give killers a choice.
It’s a joy to walk around in the shadows with Mark, Astrid, and the whole gang. I miss them already.
Highly recommended. Come on! Come meet a killer or two or maybe an ex-killer or two.
First off, I had a BLAST with this book. Rob Hart’s action-packed world possesses this unusual view of death and life with huge doses of humor and love. I rooted for these characters and laughed with them and at them. Simply put...I loved spending time with these ex-killers again.
The Medusa Protocol is book 2 in Rob Hart’s Assassins Anonymous world. A world where killers wishing to put down the blade and change their ways meet up and support each other. The group is based on the Alcoholics Anonymous model, but here their battle is with killing. They’re all trying not to take another life. Can Mark, Booker, Valencia, and more keep their sobriety intake? Even when Astrid, one of their own is threatened? How can a former assassin defend him or herself from someone out for their blood if they can’t kill? Let the creative weaponry and fun begin!
So, let’s get to the “but”. You could feel it coming, right? Let’s just do it! A couple of points keep bouncing around my head. Yes, I realize the action is all in fun and I’m over thinking, but a couple of things are still bugging me. One is the . There is an agreement between two characters in this book that just doesn’t sit right with me or the spirit of what the group is working towards. In all fairness, that is said on the page—that it might not gel with the spirit of the group. But it’s more than that. At one point, Mark utters these words to an adversary as the fight between them appears to turn Mark’s way… “I want you to know that this whole thing here wasn’t personal, and if you decide to make it that, that’s going to be a you problem.” Meaning, don't blame me. Shouldn’t that have been the same policy for Lavigne then? The agreement didn't feel like an amends. It felt like hurting someone for revenge. Plus, Lavigne is in recovery too. The whole agreement soured the group’s goals for me. BUT. Haha... On the other hand, “Bravo!” to Hart. I adore a book with gray areas to debate and discuss.
There is another issue that’s bothering me though. This line from Mark… “I used to bring death. Now, I grant you life.” Grant you? That’s a bit too close to Mark’s “god-energy” for my taste. Isn’t that the energy he’s trying to quit? Or maybe that’s Mark just being an asshole? I say that with love. :)
All that said, I truly loved this book. The two points of views and timelines came together to form one hell of a journey. The action was fast, fun, and explosive. Plus, any book that keeps me thinking and fussing over long after I close it is a win in my book.
This hidden world full of killers, clients, and secrets comes to light on the page with pain and consequences. In many ways, it’s a society like any other full of gossip, egos, assholes, and support. But it’s also a world where the cost of business could be your soul. Good thing Assassins Anonymous is around to lighten things up, cause mayhem, and give killers a choice.
It’s a joy to walk around in the shadows with Mark, Astrid, and the whole gang. I miss them already.
Highly recommended. Come on! Come meet a killer or two or maybe an ex-killer or two.
June 7, 2025
Strap in and prepare for a wild ride through the pages of "The Medusa Protocol" by Rob Hart, a book that is less of a leisurely stroll in the park and more like a rollercoaster of absurdity, action, and a dash of moral dilemmas.
Imagine a world where technology and ethics meet in a chaotic, laugh-out-loud fashion—where the heroes are a motley crew of reformed assassins with more baggage than at an airport during the holiday season. This book is a delightful story that will have you questioning your own sense of right and wrong while simultaneously chuckling at the ridiculousness of it all.
At the heart of this thrill-a-minute tale are our dynamic duo, Mark and Astrid, whose chemistry could light up a small city. Picture him as a character torn between wanting to be a hero and being really good at being a villain. His past just will not leave him alone. You can’t help but root for him, even when he’s making questionable choices.
In this book we see more of Astrid and her back story. We come to understand who she really is and why. Astrid has been taken to a secret prison that against her will.
Does Mark and the gang find her, or must she fend for herself?
It’s like a giant game of chess where the pieces are constantly moving, and every time you think you’ve figured it out, everything flips upside down. Hart has a knack for crafting twists that are as unexpected as they are entertaining. Just when you think you know where the plot is headed, bam! Another curveball lands right in your lap, and you can’t help but laugh at the sheer absurdity of it all.
Hart expertly balances the tension with humor, making you feel like you’re in on the joke while still exhilarated by the stakes. The action sequences are reminiscent of a blockbuster movie, with explosions, chases, and some truly outrageous scenarios that defy logic but embrace the fun. It’s a wild ride that feels like a mash-up of heist films, buddy comedies, and a dash of existential dread—all wrapped up in a candy-coated shell.
But let’s not forget the heart of the matter: the moral quandaries that lurk beneath the surface of all this absurdity. Hart has a playful way of addressing complex themes of redemption, justice, and the nature of good and evil. While the characters are undeniably engaging, the narrative challenges readers to consider the implications of their actions. Are they truly redeemable, or are they simply glorifying a life of chaos? It’s a slippery slope that Hart navigates with finesse, allowing readers to laugh while also engaging in deeper reflections about the choices we make and the consequences they bring.
In conclusion, "The Medusa Protocol" is a delightful blend of action, comedy, and moral conundrums that will keep you entertained from start to finish. Rob Hart masterfully weaves a tale that is both fast-paced and thought-provoking, making you laugh while simultaneously questioning the nature of justice and redemption.
It’s a book that doesn’t shy away from the absurdity of its premise, instead leaning into it with a playful abandon that makes every character's misadventure feel like an exhilarating ride. As you follow Mark and Astrid on their journey, you’ll find yourself not just turning pages but guffawing at the sheer ridiculousness of their escapades. So, grab your favorite snack, find a comfy spot, and prepare to dive into a world where chaos reigns, laughter is abundant, and nothing is quite as it seems! It goes fast!
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Group Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for the free Advanced Readers Copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own because I have freedom of speech.
Imagine a world where technology and ethics meet in a chaotic, laugh-out-loud fashion—where the heroes are a motley crew of reformed assassins with more baggage than at an airport during the holiday season. This book is a delightful story that will have you questioning your own sense of right and wrong while simultaneously chuckling at the ridiculousness of it all.
At the heart of this thrill-a-minute tale are our dynamic duo, Mark and Astrid, whose chemistry could light up a small city. Picture him as a character torn between wanting to be a hero and being really good at being a villain. His past just will not leave him alone. You can’t help but root for him, even when he’s making questionable choices.
In this book we see more of Astrid and her back story. We come to understand who she really is and why. Astrid has been taken to a secret prison that against her will.
Does Mark and the gang find her, or must she fend for herself?
It’s like a giant game of chess where the pieces are constantly moving, and every time you think you’ve figured it out, everything flips upside down. Hart has a knack for crafting twists that are as unexpected as they are entertaining. Just when you think you know where the plot is headed, bam! Another curveball lands right in your lap, and you can’t help but laugh at the sheer absurdity of it all.
Hart expertly balances the tension with humor, making you feel like you’re in on the joke while still exhilarated by the stakes. The action sequences are reminiscent of a blockbuster movie, with explosions, chases, and some truly outrageous scenarios that defy logic but embrace the fun. It’s a wild ride that feels like a mash-up of heist films, buddy comedies, and a dash of existential dread—all wrapped up in a candy-coated shell.
But let’s not forget the heart of the matter: the moral quandaries that lurk beneath the surface of all this absurdity. Hart has a playful way of addressing complex themes of redemption, justice, and the nature of good and evil. While the characters are undeniably engaging, the narrative challenges readers to consider the implications of their actions. Are they truly redeemable, or are they simply glorifying a life of chaos? It’s a slippery slope that Hart navigates with finesse, allowing readers to laugh while also engaging in deeper reflections about the choices we make and the consequences they bring.
In conclusion, "The Medusa Protocol" is a delightful blend of action, comedy, and moral conundrums that will keep you entertained from start to finish. Rob Hart masterfully weaves a tale that is both fast-paced and thought-provoking, making you laugh while simultaneously questioning the nature of justice and redemption.
It’s a book that doesn’t shy away from the absurdity of its premise, instead leaning into it with a playful abandon that makes every character's misadventure feel like an exhilarating ride. As you follow Mark and Astrid on their journey, you’ll find yourself not just turning pages but guffawing at the sheer ridiculousness of their escapades. So, grab your favorite snack, find a comfy spot, and prepare to dive into a world where chaos reigns, laughter is abundant, and nothing is quite as it seems! It goes fast!
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Group Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for the free Advanced Readers Copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own because I have freedom of speech.
August 24, 2025
3.5⭐️ *Toasting marshmallows on Outlier’s Island* I gave #2 a shot, cautious that this would be darker than Assassin’s Anonymous. It was, and crossed firmly into Mystery Adventure territory. Not my thing.
Neither did I care that flashbacks, which were used to tell Mark’s story in the first book, were repeated here for Astrid, the MC. Mark and his merry band of assassins played supporting roles. I don’t know if this will continue, but I’m checking out.
🩸While the gore wasn’t bad, it ramped up a notch from the first. Another reason #3 won’t be on my TBR.
Neither did I care that flashbacks, which were used to tell Mark’s story in the first book, were repeated here for Astrid, the MC. Mark and his merry band of assassins played supporting roles. I don’t know if this will continue, but I’m checking out.
🩸While the gore wasn’t bad, it ramped up a notch from the first. Another reason #3 won’t be on my TBR.
September 21, 2025
“You killed more people than any of us, and people act like you’re a god. And, what, now the path to serenity is to sit around and talk about our feelings while we let the world burn down around us? How are we supposed to sleep at night, knowing we can do things that other people can’t?”
The road to recovery is neither easy nor without sacrifices as Mark finds out. This is another summer blockbuster-y, popcorn chowing, adrenaline pumping installment. Reading this is like watching a movie. Entertaining with just enough heart to give a purpose.
Second in the Assassins’ Anonymous series
January 25, 2025
God, but these books are fucking fun.
I had a really good time reading ASSASSINS ANONYMOUS so why not get the follow up early from NetGalley?
It was just as good. They’re like funnier Jason Statham/John Wick movies. Good action, funny, a bit of angst. Popcorn for days. And the concept of Assassins Anonymous just makes sense to me - making amends, trying to stay clean… I love these books. Super fast reads too. So fun.
I had a really good time reading ASSASSINS ANONYMOUS so why not get the follow up early from NetGalley?
It was just as good. They’re like funnier Jason Statham/John Wick movies. Good action, funny, a bit of angst. Popcorn for days. And the concept of Assassins Anonymous just makes sense to me - making amends, trying to stay clean… I love these books. Super fast reads too. So fun.
June 21, 2025
#ad much love for my advance and finished copy @putnumbooks #partner
& @prhaudio #partner for the ALC
Sorry I have no clue where this book came from 🤷🏼♀️ I know it was from some PR peeps - but who exactly - I’m not sure.
“I know why I do this job. It's an outlet for the anger that lives in my chest like a wild animal, and sometimes that animal needs to claw its way out. What I do, I can say it makes the world a better place, but really, I just like hurting men, and this job, it's mostly men I have to hurt,” (p. 145).
Assassins Anonymous. Astrid has gone missing and Mark is desperate to find her. What a fabulous read this was. I wasn’t too sure about this one - the cover is meh (sorry) but don’t let that fool you. I know - never judge a book by its cover - but I always do.
The Medusa Protocol by Rob Hart is a fast-paced thriller that hooked me from the start. Astrid is in a locked room and has been kidnapped and now is being tortured. Mark is at a meeting of former assassins trying to find Astrid.
The story alternates between the past and current time and also alternates between Mark and Astrid’s story. Each is entertaining. A real page-turner, this book was impossible to put down.
The book has everything you want in a thriller. A compelling plot that pulls you along. There wasn’t a moment that wasn’t popping with action - no boring parts here.
This book can easily be enjoyed by anyone. I’m kinda shocked how invested I was. Loved it!
🎧 The audio for this is fantastic. The dual narrators made this story come to life. I enjoyed both of the narrators and found them easy to listen to. Recommend the audio for this one.
Assassins
Kidnapping
Action
HALTing (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired
Fabulous read
& @prhaudio #partner for the ALC
Sorry I have no clue where this book came from 🤷🏼♀️ I know it was from some PR peeps - but who exactly - I’m not sure.
“I know why I do this job. It's an outlet for the anger that lives in my chest like a wild animal, and sometimes that animal needs to claw its way out. What I do, I can say it makes the world a better place, but really, I just like hurting men, and this job, it's mostly men I have to hurt,” (p. 145).
Assassins Anonymous. Astrid has gone missing and Mark is desperate to find her. What a fabulous read this was. I wasn’t too sure about this one - the cover is meh (sorry) but don’t let that fool you. I know - never judge a book by its cover - but I always do.
The Medusa Protocol by Rob Hart is a fast-paced thriller that hooked me from the start. Astrid is in a locked room and has been kidnapped and now is being tortured. Mark is at a meeting of former assassins trying to find Astrid.
The story alternates between the past and current time and also alternates between Mark and Astrid’s story. Each is entertaining. A real page-turner, this book was impossible to put down.
The book has everything you want in a thriller. A compelling plot that pulls you along. There wasn’t a moment that wasn’t popping with action - no boring parts here.
This book can easily be enjoyed by anyone. I’m kinda shocked how invested I was. Loved it!
🎧 The audio for this is fantastic. The dual narrators made this story come to life. I enjoyed both of the narrators and found them easy to listen to. Recommend the audio for this one.
Assassins
Kidnapping
Action
HALTing (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired
Fabulous read
June 25, 2025
Assassins Anonymous is a weekly meeting in NYC where a small group of former contract killers get together to support one another.
See, they’ve given up killing and it’s not an easy road to travel with guilt and nightmares and ghosts - not to mention the people you’ve wronged who just might want you dead.
So it is concerning when Astrid stops showing up to meetings. The newest, most fragile member of the group is also the one who needs the support of this found family the most!
A few things happen in quick succession: a pizza is delivered, there are sounds on the rooftop, and men in tactical gear gather out front.
Was the pizza a message sent by Astrid? If so, what can it mean?
Astrid is being held at a black site prison where she’s having experimental procedures done - against her will - the doctor trying to extract memories from her for the client who hired him.
Astrid is not about to go down without a fight.
Not a death, remember. She’s not killing anyone anymore, so just a fight. Ok? Ok.
__
Told in two timelines - one current in which Astrid’s former assassin friends try to reach her, the other sharing glimpses into Astrid’s past to help piece together her origin story - the pace is frenetic.
And let me tell you, it’s one hell of a ride. It pulses forward, unforgiving, making promises it keeps in both narrative and tone.
It’s at once deeply funny and absolutely thrilling. Every character is worth rooting for, every one seeking redemption for past acts, every one deserving.
It’s highly satisfying, with a climax that will surprise you and an ending that will please your assassin loving heart.
This is the second book but can be read as a stand alone, and I’m already chomping at the bit to read the first in the series. I can see more coming, each character getting their due, and I’m here for it.
Thanks so much to @putnam for the copy to read and review. You’ve got me hooked! Don’t miss out on this one!
Vibe check: Alias and Killers of a Certain Age
See, they’ve given up killing and it’s not an easy road to travel with guilt and nightmares and ghosts - not to mention the people you’ve wronged who just might want you dead.
So it is concerning when Astrid stops showing up to meetings. The newest, most fragile member of the group is also the one who needs the support of this found family the most!
A few things happen in quick succession: a pizza is delivered, there are sounds on the rooftop, and men in tactical gear gather out front.
Was the pizza a message sent by Astrid? If so, what can it mean?
Astrid is being held at a black site prison where she’s having experimental procedures done - against her will - the doctor trying to extract memories from her for the client who hired him.
Astrid is not about to go down without a fight.
Not a death, remember. She’s not killing anyone anymore, so just a fight. Ok? Ok.
__
Told in two timelines - one current in which Astrid’s former assassin friends try to reach her, the other sharing glimpses into Astrid’s past to help piece together her origin story - the pace is frenetic.
And let me tell you, it’s one hell of a ride. It pulses forward, unforgiving, making promises it keeps in both narrative and tone.
It’s at once deeply funny and absolutely thrilling. Every character is worth rooting for, every one seeking redemption for past acts, every one deserving.
It’s highly satisfying, with a climax that will surprise you and an ending that will please your assassin loving heart.
This is the second book but can be read as a stand alone, and I’m already chomping at the bit to read the first in the series. I can see more coming, each character getting their due, and I’m here for it.
Thanks so much to @putnam for the copy to read and review. You’ve got me hooked! Don’t miss out on this one!
Vibe check: Alias and Killers of a Certain Age
February 15, 2025
I love this series! Mark is a retired assassin leading an AA-style twelve-step program for other assassins ready to leave that life behind. But their pasts keep catching up with them, and their commitment to the program is tested when have to save one of their own without leaving any bodies in their wake.
Smart, funny, and well-plotted, with a great cast of characters! Definitely read Assassins Anonymous before diving into the Medusa Protocol — and definitely read them both!
Fingers crossed for a book three…!
* thanks to Putnam for the NetGalley review copy! The Medusa Protocol publishes in June 2025.
Smart, funny, and well-plotted, with a great cast of characters! Definitely read Assassins Anonymous before diving into the Medusa Protocol — and definitely read them both!
Fingers crossed for a book three…!
* thanks to Putnam for the NetGalley review copy! The Medusa Protocol publishes in June 2025.
January 24, 2025
I highly recommend reading Assassins Anonymous prior to reading this book.
The Medusa Protocol is the second book in the series.
I found The Medusa Protocol to be creative, fast paced and entertaining.
I highly recommend it!
The rest of the review to come soon.
The Medusa Protocol is the second book in the series.
I found The Medusa Protocol to be creative, fast paced and entertaining.
I highly recommend it!
The rest of the review to come soon.
November 10, 2025
Quick read. Book 2 of Assasin’s anonymous. Reformed killers trying to make amends for wrongs. It’s a fun read. A different take on anti-hero. Rooting for killers is probably not something normally done. Rob Hart is humorous in his writing style. I enjoyed it. Reads like part thriller and drama. There is some swears and some gore. Not too bad though
September 3, 2025
AA i probably known all over the world. But this is not what you think, I just love the concept of Assassins Anonymous and this second book. The Medusa Protocol by Rob Hart is just as good as the first one. I had a blast reading it and I'm sure you will as well if you try it. I really recommend this series and author, he comes up with the strangest characters and ideas. The book is well written and it's also proof that you don't need 500 pages to tell a story. With the additions in this book when it comes to new members bodes well for the future of this series.
July 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
The Medusa Protocol.
The Medusa Protocol is the sequel to Assassins Anonymous, which I enjoyed.
But I have to say I liked the sequel more, which is rare.
** Minor assassin-y spoilers ahead **
It might be because the plot focuses on Azrael this time, who has been kidnapped and 'relocated' to a black site prison.
As Azrael figures out an escape plan without killing anyone in the process (not easy t0 do), Mark and his friends make their own plan to rescue their friend.
I love the concept of the AA group but with former assassins trying to reform their bad ass killing ways.
How do you live a reformed life without killing when so many other people want to kill you?
The concept of remaining true to your non-killing ways even as mercs and other assassins try to kill you is a great concept.
I enjoyed the flashbacks into Azrael's past and Mark's determination to find out where she was and attempt a rescue no matter how bleak their prospects might be.
Is this hard to suspend disbelief for?
Sure, but so is James Bond and those are exciting to watch, which is one reason they're so popular.
This series is wild with assassins and bullets and fighting with a dose of painful reality offered by the AA tenets; how to be a better person is a day to day process and we get through it by helping and supporting others and being supported by others just like you.
The Medusa Protocol is the sequel to Assassins Anonymous, which I enjoyed.
But I have to say I liked the sequel more, which is rare.
** Minor assassin-y spoilers ahead **
It might be because the plot focuses on Azrael this time, who has been kidnapped and 'relocated' to a black site prison.
As Azrael figures out an escape plan without killing anyone in the process (not easy t0 do), Mark and his friends make their own plan to rescue their friend.
I love the concept of the AA group but with former assassins trying to reform their bad ass killing ways.
How do you live a reformed life without killing when so many other people want to kill you?
The concept of remaining true to your non-killing ways even as mercs and other assassins try to kill you is a great concept.
I enjoyed the flashbacks into Azrael's past and Mark's determination to find out where she was and attempt a rescue no matter how bleak their prospects might be.
Is this hard to suspend disbelief for?
Sure, but so is James Bond and those are exciting to watch, which is one reason they're so popular.
This series is wild with assassins and bullets and fighting with a dose of painful reality offered by the AA tenets; how to be a better person is a day to day process and we get through it by helping and supporting others and being supported by others just like you.
July 4, 2025
When you’d like to quit doing murder for hire, but the world just won’t let you.
That’s the basic premise of this series, now in its second installment. A group of assassins who have pledged to quit and are in some semblance of a 12-step program just keep getting dragged back into the game.
It’s a clever premise but pretty thin on world building and backstory, and the dialogue probably needs more humor. If you like light action novels, you’ll do fine with this one.
For me it felt a little short on actual plot and character depth, and the talk of “getting sober” from killing kind of gave me the ick.
I’ve liked other books by Hart better than these. The Paradox Hotel, for example, is funny and clever and is a much more atmospherically rich text. This series is probably a pass for me going forward, but I’m interested to see what else Hart does outside of this particular topic.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
That’s the basic premise of this series, now in its second installment. A group of assassins who have pledged to quit and are in some semblance of a 12-step program just keep getting dragged back into the game.
It’s a clever premise but pretty thin on world building and backstory, and the dialogue probably needs more humor. If you like light action novels, you’ll do fine with this one.
For me it felt a little short on actual plot and character depth, and the talk of “getting sober” from killing kind of gave me the ick.
I’ve liked other books by Hart better than these. The Paradox Hotel, for example, is funny and clever and is a much more atmospherically rich text. This series is probably a pass for me going forward, but I’m interested to see what else Hart does outside of this particular topic.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
June 22, 2025
The Assassins Anonymous series presents readers with an interesting thriller reading experience. The Medusa Protocol is the second book in the series and certainly can be read as a standalone - however, reading Assassins Anonymous first gives background that adds so much enjoyment in reading this one. The concept of a group of assassins, who have decided that they no longer want to kill, who form a support group based on the principles of AA is unique. When actions in their former lives come back to haunt their current lives, they have to find non-lethal ways of dealing with the situation or risk their ‘sobriety’. Astrid has been snatched off the street and dumped into an off the grid prison where the inmates are being used as lab rats. She must find a way to escape before it’s decided that she is no longer useful. Meanwhile her AA family is on a mission to find her. This book is a purely entertaining, high octane, action packed thrill ride!
July 17, 2025
*3.5 stars.
The second book in the Assassins Anonymous series is more about Astrid this time around. She has joined the Brooklyn chapter of Assassins Anonymous and Mark is her sponsor but she hasn't attended any meetings for a month. Where is she??
Turns out she's being held captive in a prison on an island off the coast of Brazil and when she gets a chance to get word to her friends, what does she do? She orders a pizza with her own favorite ingredient to be sent to their meeting as a clue. Why doesn't she take the opportunity to ask the pizzeria to give her friends a direct message?? Preposterous!
Anyway, if you can suspend your disbelief, these books are quick reads, amusing and fun, with lots of exciting action. The whole premise is a bit off the wall: that hired assassins can become addicted to killing and need help overcoming their addiction. The primary purpose for those who join Assassins Anonymous is to stop killing and help others to achieve the same using AA's 12-step program. But Astrid says, 'And, what now, the path to serenity is to sit around and talk about our feelings while we let the world burn down around us? Some people just need killing...'
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new thriller via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
The second book in the Assassins Anonymous series is more about Astrid this time around. She has joined the Brooklyn chapter of Assassins Anonymous and Mark is her sponsor but she hasn't attended any meetings for a month. Where is she??
Turns out she's being held captive in a prison on an island off the coast of Brazil and when she gets a chance to get word to her friends, what does she do? She orders a pizza with her own favorite ingredient to be sent to their meeting as a clue. Why doesn't she take the opportunity to ask the pizzeria to give her friends a direct message?? Preposterous!
Anyway, if you can suspend your disbelief, these books are quick reads, amusing and fun, with lots of exciting action. The whole premise is a bit off the wall: that hired assassins can become addicted to killing and need help overcoming their addiction. The primary purpose for those who join Assassins Anonymous is to stop killing and help others to achieve the same using AA's 12-step program. But Astrid says, 'And, what now, the path to serenity is to sit around and talk about our feelings while we let the world burn down around us? Some people just need killing...'
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new thriller via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
January 14, 2026
Would you risk your sobriety and break into a prison on a snake-infested island to save your best friend?
That is the dilemma retired assassin Mark is forced to face when his friend and sponsee, Astrid, is kidnapped and held at an off-site prison on the coast of Costa Rica. This was a nice extension of the previous book, but I think I liked the first one just a little bit better. The action in the book was up to par with the first book, but I think the combination of both switching POVs and time-jumps was a little too much for me.
Fast-paced and drew me in from the beginning. 4.25⭐️
That is the dilemma retired assassin Mark is forced to face when his friend and sponsee, Astrid, is kidnapped and held at an off-site prison on the coast of Costa Rica. This was a nice extension of the previous book, but I think I liked the first one just a little bit better. The action in the book was up to par with the first book, but I think the combination of both switching POVs and time-jumps was a little too much for me.
Fast-paced and drew me in from the beginning. 4.25⭐️
July 5, 2025
When you are in a recovery group for former assassins, there's always a strong chance that your past will come looking for you. When a member of the group goes missing, they are unsure if something has happened to them or if they have fallen off the "don't kill anyone" wagon. A message shows up that indicates the former and the group uses their considerable skills and contacts to pull off a rescue -- all while trying to avoid lethal force. Plenty of fast paced action, snarky humor. and a whole lot of heart about your found family.
July 28, 2025
another hit by Rob Hart.
July 25, 2025
This was an awesome sequel to Assasins Anonymous. We get more of Astrid’s back story and what propelled her to becoming a hitman. Another fun, action packed thriller; I absolutely love what Rob Hart is doing with this series. And the fact that book 3 is coming?! Cannot wait.
August 23, 2025
I can easily see this as being picked up into a 🍿 🎥 movie!
August 8, 2025
Top notch thriller. Great follow up to the previous book. I would not be unhappy if this became a series. I’d definitely read them all. Astrid is a great character to explore. Great audiobook.
July 21, 2025
Somehow when I requested this ARC, I did not realize that this was the second book in the series. But, fear not, this works well as a standalone. Somewhat reminiscent of Killers of A Certain Age, in that both are about retired assassins, in this book the assassins have retired due to a desire to stop killing. Thus they have joined AA - Assassins Anonymous. Funny, suspenseful, and thoughtful, the book does not shirk discussions on guilt, complicity, and the possibility of redemption even for those who have committed heinous crimes.
And now to go back and read the first in the series. Thanks to GP Putnam and NetGalley for this ARC.
And now to go back and read the first in the series. Thanks to GP Putnam and NetGalley for this ARC.
June 26, 2025
I’ve read several of Rob Hart’s books but really loved his Assassins Anonymous that came out last year. This book, which is the sequel - The Medusa Protocol, was just as good, if not better and I really enjoyed everything about it.
A group of world renowned lethal ex-assassins have quit the biz and and joined AA (Assassin’s Anonymous). When one of the group members, Astrid, is kidnapped, Mark and his fellow ex-assassins travel around the world trying to find and rescue her.
This was another crazy thriller with non-stop action. Mark is a John Wick type character doing whatever he can to stop the people coming after him from finding Astrid without actually killing them. Harder to do than you think.
These characters are completely endearing (as much as a lethal killer can be) and I loved them all. Mark and his beloved cat, Astrid, Booker, Valencia and her newborn daughter, and Mrs. Nguyen.
This book can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading both as they’re just so much fun. The banter…! Hilarious. I would love to see more of Mark and the gang in future books!
*Thank you so much to Penguin Group Putnam/GP Putnam's Sons, and to NetGalley for the eBook!*
A group of world renowned lethal ex-assassins have quit the biz and and joined AA (Assassin’s Anonymous). When one of the group members, Astrid, is kidnapped, Mark and his fellow ex-assassins travel around the world trying to find and rescue her.
This was another crazy thriller with non-stop action. Mark is a John Wick type character doing whatever he can to stop the people coming after him from finding Astrid without actually killing them. Harder to do than you think.
These characters are completely endearing (as much as a lethal killer can be) and I loved them all. Mark and his beloved cat, Astrid, Booker, Valencia and her newborn daughter, and Mrs. Nguyen.
This book can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading both as they’re just so much fun. The banter…! Hilarious. I would love to see more of Mark and the gang in future books!
*Thank you so much to Penguin Group Putnam/GP Putnam's Sons, and to NetGalley for the eBook!*
June 17, 2025
The support group from Assassins Anonymous is back in The Medusa Protocol by Rob Hart.
"Astrid, known in the assasssin world as Azrael, stops showing up to the Assassins Anonymous group meetings. Mark and the others think her past has caught up with her. 'Til one day they get a pizza delivered that only Astrid would eat. Is she trying to send a message?
Astrid wakes up at a black site prison. A doctor is subjecting her to intrusive experiments trying to dig out certain memories. She'll do anything to escape except kill someone. Looks like that won't be easy."
This book is a big entertaining romp. Hart continues his ludicrous concept of an assassins support group and takes it a step farther. There's a lot of action but there's a problem since the assassins are in recovery and can't kill anyone. How does that work? Hart makes it funny and incredibly entertaining. The pace in this book is breathtakingly fast. You'll enjoy every minute.
So glad to see these characters again. Another great story from Hart.
"Astrid, known in the assasssin world as Azrael, stops showing up to the Assassins Anonymous group meetings. Mark and the others think her past has caught up with her. 'Til one day they get a pizza delivered that only Astrid would eat. Is she trying to send a message?
Astrid wakes up at a black site prison. A doctor is subjecting her to intrusive experiments trying to dig out certain memories. She'll do anything to escape except kill someone. Looks like that won't be easy."
This book is a big entertaining romp. Hart continues his ludicrous concept of an assassins support group and takes it a step farther. There's a lot of action but there's a problem since the assassins are in recovery and can't kill anyone. How does that work? Hart makes it funny and incredibly entertaining. The pace in this book is breathtakingly fast. You'll enjoy every minute.
So glad to see these characters again. Another great story from Hart.
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