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Axel Blaze #2
Lethal Force
“I’ve dealt with lots of dangerous men, men like you, who kill people over nothing. But sometimes, they mess with the wrong guy.”
Ex-deputy US Marshal Axel Blaze knows how to deal with dangerous men. A background in the special forces and the US Marshals has made him a tactical fighter and lethal opponent. Following the successful debut of Blaze Returns, Bill Runner is back with the second novel in the Axel Blaze thriller series.
When Blaze takes out a Mexican cartel’s operations in Nevada, the cartel sends hitmen after him and everyone he cares about. Bad move. What the cartel doesn’t realize is, it has messed with a Lethal Force.
Blaze will go after them. Put the fear of death in them. Before striking back. Hard.
Ex-deputy US Marshal Axel Blaze knows how to deal with dangerous men. A background in the special forces and the US Marshals has made him a tactical fighter and lethal opponent. Following the successful debut of Blaze Returns, Bill Runner is back with the second novel in the Axel Blaze thriller series.
When Blaze takes out a Mexican cartel’s operations in Nevada, the cartel sends hitmen after him and everyone he cares about. Bad move. What the cartel doesn’t realize is, it has messed with a Lethal Force.
Blaze will go after them. Put the fear of death in them. Before striking back. Hard.
- GenresThriller
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2022
About the author
Bill Runner
60 books72 followersBill Runner worked as an investigative journalist before turning to writing novels. He grew up on a regular diet of western novels and movies about lone rangers, which influenced the shaping of Blaze. Bill is an experienced mountain climber and has been a lifelong student of martial arts. Working the crime beat and studying the art of fighting helped make him the author of thriller novels, which are known for well-executed action sequences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
May 30, 2026
2.5-Stars ^ 3-Stars for Axel Blaze #2 - Lethal Force
- "It was a bit better than OK"
The writing was OK, but the action aspects of this audiobook, ie, the death and destruction of the baddies, dealt out mercilessly by the goodies, who survived to write another book, became a bit monotonous. Perhaps a contradiction in terms for an 'Action' novel, but it lacked a decent plot/story line, plus the implausibility did wear a bit thin, particularly since a couple of Mexican cartels were destroyed by just two super-goodies in the process.
The narration by Kyle Snyder was satisfactory.
Bill Runner - Axel Blaze 02 - Lethal Force
Audible Direct 06:28 Hours - Narrator: Kyle Snyder
Commenced: May 25, 2026 - Finished: May 29, 2026
- "It was a bit better than OK"
The writing was OK, but the action aspects of this audiobook, ie, the death and destruction of the baddies, dealt out mercilessly by the goodies, who survived to write another book, became a bit monotonous. Perhaps a contradiction in terms for an 'Action' novel, but it lacked a decent plot/story line, plus the implausibility did wear a bit thin, particularly since a couple of Mexican cartels were destroyed by just two super-goodies in the process.
The narration by Kyle Snyder was satisfactory.
Bill Runner - Axel Blaze 02 - Lethal Force
Audible Direct 06:28 Hours - Narrator: Kyle Snyder
Commenced: May 25, 2026 - Finished: May 29, 2026
September 12, 2026
A Sequel to Blaze #1
A review of the Runner House Books eBook (September 2024) a reissue of the original paperback/eBook (2022).
Lethal Force follows directly on from the 1st book in the series Blaze Returns which I reviewed as Relentless Action. The Mexican cartel didn't get the message when their U.S. allies and first band of sicarios met their end in the previous book. They take out a contract hit on Axel Blaze.
Before it is over, Blaze has taken the battle to the cartel's home ground in order to remove their threat forever.
Trivia and Links
Perhaps you are wondering why I'm reading such repetitive action thrillers. Without too much personal detail, I've had a few unfortunate experiences this year, including being the victim of a car theft and a natural disaster. Somehow, justice was hardly ever served in those cases and the bureaucracy of the police, the insurance, the autobody shops etc. was often infuriating and had the feeling of a conspiracy. Reading about fictional vigilante justice was a way of processing all that.
A few quotes in that vein:
A review of the Runner House Books eBook (September 2024) a reissue of the original paperback/eBook (2022).
I was brought up with a moral code. A deep-rooted code of justice. It was all about not letting bad guys walk away. The one rule I never let them forget was: “You have to pay your dues. Period.”
Lethal Force follows directly on from the 1st book in the series Blaze Returns which I reviewed as Relentless Action. The Mexican cartel didn't get the message when their U.S. allies and first band of sicarios met their end in the previous book. They take out a contract hit on Axel Blaze.
Before it is over, Blaze has taken the battle to the cartel's home ground in order to remove their threat forever.
Trivia and Links
Perhaps you are wondering why I'm reading such repetitive action thrillers. Without too much personal detail, I've had a few unfortunate experiences this year, including being the victim of a car theft and a natural disaster. Somehow, justice was hardly ever served in those cases and the bureaucracy of the police, the insurance, the autobody shops etc. was often infuriating and had the feeling of a conspiracy. Reading about fictional vigilante justice was a way of processing all that.
A few quotes in that vein:
The white moonlight was cold and clear, like the justice we dream of but don't find. - Raymond Chandler The High Window (1942).
The law's not about justice. It's a system we've put in place because we can't have justice. - William McIlvanney / Ian Rankin The Dark Remains (2021).
July 15, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is another great book set (at least in part) in Colorado. Since I live here, I'm partial to these stories. This time the bad guys threatened his family. That's a big no-no. This is book #2 in the series and it does work better if you read them in order, but you would not be too lost if this is where you jump in. You could pretend book #1 was a backstory novel.
This was another fun read, with quite a bit of bone-breaking! I truly appreciate the effort that goes into the accurate details of this book. I hadn't heard the term "Big Chicken Dinner" in years and it made my heart happy to see it used (and used correctly). I have read so many books that reference the military (or science, or pop culture) and get the details wrong and it bugs the heck out of me. This was, again fantastic.
One of my favorite aspects of the character's personality is that he finds a way for all his "oh no they died" (at least in the US) to be legitimate self-defense. So sly. Love this character.
This is another great book set (at least in part) in Colorado. Since I live here, I'm partial to these stories. This time the bad guys threatened his family. That's a big no-no. This is book #2 in the series and it does work better if you read them in order, but you would not be too lost if this is where you jump in. You could pretend book #1 was a backstory novel.
This was another fun read, with quite a bit of bone-breaking! I truly appreciate the effort that goes into the accurate details of this book. I hadn't heard the term "Big Chicken Dinner" in years and it made my heart happy to see it used (and used correctly). I have read so many books that reference the military (or science, or pop culture) and get the details wrong and it bugs the heck out of me. This was, again fantastic.
One of my favorite aspects of the character's personality is that he finds a way for all his "oh no they died" (at least in the US) to be legitimate self-defense. So sly. Love this character.
Read
May 28, 2022Title – Lethal Force
Author – Bill Runner
Genre – Thriller
Word Count - 71,500
Rating – Five stars out of five
No. 23 - 2022
Posted 5/28/2020
My Impressions: Lots of action in this war against a Mexican Cartel.
Main Characters:
Alex Blaze – Badass cowboy, etc. etc. etc.
Adriel – Alex’s best friend, Indian Chief.
Winona – Target of Cartel thug’s for kidnapping.
As a US Marshal, Alex took on a Mexican Cartel and won costing them loss of lots of money and reputation. The Cartel boss sent an assassination crew to get even by kidnapping Winona, putting her in a brothel and murdering Alex and Adriel. Instead, Alex was warned of the attack and wiped out the ten-man crew. Knowing the Cartel leader was a wicked psychopath, Alex took the fight to Mexico to confront the drug running killer head-on. He, Adriel, and a group of Mexican victims of the Cartel joined forces to cost the leader millions of dollars, destroy his drug lab, and decimate his crew.
Lots of detailed action by an invincible hero.
The editing and sentence structure are fair, but there are routine errors.
The formatting is bad but still readable. This is likely the convertor software’s fault.
Character development is acceptable for the main characters.
Details, especially in the action filled fight scenes are good.
The plot is standard ex-special forces badass taking on the evil killers and wiping them all out.
I recommend this story as an action filled read in spite of suppressors reducing gun blasts to a ‘pop’.
Vigilant Reader Book Reviews.
Author – Bill Runner
Genre – Thriller
Word Count - 71,500
Rating – Five stars out of five
No. 23 - 2022
Posted 5/28/2020
My Impressions: Lots of action in this war against a Mexican Cartel.
Main Characters:
Alex Blaze – Badass cowboy, etc. etc. etc.
Adriel – Alex’s best friend, Indian Chief.
Winona – Target of Cartel thug’s for kidnapping.
As a US Marshal, Alex took on a Mexican Cartel and won costing them loss of lots of money and reputation. The Cartel boss sent an assassination crew to get even by kidnapping Winona, putting her in a brothel and murdering Alex and Adriel. Instead, Alex was warned of the attack and wiped out the ten-man crew. Knowing the Cartel leader was a wicked psychopath, Alex took the fight to Mexico to confront the drug running killer head-on. He, Adriel, and a group of Mexican victims of the Cartel joined forces to cost the leader millions of dollars, destroy his drug lab, and decimate his crew.
Lots of detailed action by an invincible hero.
The editing and sentence structure are fair, but there are routine errors.
The formatting is bad but still readable. This is likely the convertor software’s fault.
Character development is acceptable for the main characters.
Details, especially in the action filled fight scenes are good.
The plot is standard ex-special forces badass taking on the evil killers and wiping them all out.
I recommend this story as an action filled read in spite of suppressors reducing gun blasts to a ‘pop’.
Vigilant Reader Book Reviews.
August 18, 2022
This one is full-on action. I made the mistake of starting to read it near the time I meant to go to bed. I stayed up late, but found myself wanting to finish it with a clear head so I reluctantly left it.
I must say I really enjoyed this book, both because I am an action book lover, and because this did not have the added distraction of a female love interest. This was pure action for action's sake and I thoroughly loved it. I hope to read more by this author.
The basic story is in reference to a previous story in which a guy takes down a drug cartel. This one is the drug cartel's retaliation. They should have left well enough alone and cut their losses. But, as in real life, the egos of the leaders made them think they were invincible.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I must say I really enjoyed this book, both because I am an action book lover, and because this did not have the added distraction of a female love interest. This was pure action for action's sake and I thoroughly loved it. I hope to read more by this author.
The basic story is in reference to a previous story in which a guy takes down a drug cartel. This one is the drug cartel's retaliation. They should have left well enough alone and cut their losses. But, as in real life, the egos of the leaders made them think they were invincible.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2022
A rip roaring action adventure tale pitting a powerful Mexican drug and human trafficking cartel against a former Special Forces/Delta Force operative who is also a retired US Marshal, although a bit prematurely retired. This story moves at a break neck pace with never a dull moment. It also highlights the shackles law enforcement wears in trying to work within Mexican borders with the corruption therein. Perhaps most poignant is the assistance given by some of the Mexican people who have already lost friends and family to the cartel and have nothing left to live for but vengence. This story left me with hope that sometimes good can win the day if enough people work together hard enough and long enough..... I will be following this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2024
I read book one, and that was OK, got book 2 hoping that the second book's writing would improve. The overall story is non-exisitent really. They threatend is family go he goes after them hard. The book does move along with some pace, but it is just seems to be one set piece after another. He has a pick truck that has exactly what he needs when he needs it, in its secret compartment. He wishes for nothing. The character of Blaze if very flat, after a book and a half I know nothing about him. And some of the wording repeats like mad, i.e I am going to get then hard. In the first book he must have said "find carter" a dozen times. Don't think I will finish book 2, going to bale out and look for a series of books written for adults.
May 22, 2022
Blaze – the deadliest action hero out there!
I loved the first Blaze novel and bought this new one the day it was published. No regrets. What a follow-up! It’s even more full of brutal action than Blaze Returns. There’s a contract out for Blaze from a Mexican cartel. But he goes on the offensive, taking out everyone who comes gunning for him. He does that with deadly precision in a very calculated way. And then he heads to Mexico to end it once and for all. The fight sequence with the psycho giant called the Butcher is unbelievable. I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
I loved the first Blaze novel and bought this new one the day it was published. No regrets. What a follow-up! It’s even more full of brutal action than Blaze Returns. There’s a contract out for Blaze from a Mexican cartel. But he goes on the offensive, taking out everyone who comes gunning for him. He does that with deadly precision in a very calculated way. And then he heads to Mexico to end it once and for all. The fight sequence with the psycho giant called the Butcher is unbelievable. I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
July 31, 2024
Yes, I bought part two, because I had a childish phase, and because not all bad guys from part one got their fair share of being beaten up and this part handles that. And I hoped he would get the girl too, the one he just missed in part one, but he doesn't, and I'll probably never know, because I'm on to adult books again.
I hope they meet. I think they'll meet, somewhere in part four. And he saves her and then she saves him. Or something. And then in part six they retire to some ranch. Maybe. Don't tell me.
I hope they meet. I think they'll meet, somewhere in part four. And he saves her and then she saves him. Or something. And then in part six they retire to some ranch. Maybe. Don't tell me.
September 28, 2022
Lethal Force
I'm really pleased that I received an ARC for another Bill Runner story which led to me to this series. Non stop action is something I really love, who needs sleep when there's a good story to be read?
I'm now a lover of Axel Blaze and his sense of justice and the way he goes about achieving it. The cast of characters who support him are pretty special too.
This is a series I'll gladly read again and thoroughly recommend it.
I'm really pleased that I received an ARC for another Bill Runner story which led to me to this series. Non stop action is something I really love, who needs sleep when there's a good story to be read?
I'm now a lover of Axel Blaze and his sense of justice and the way he goes about achieving it. The cast of characters who support him are pretty special too.
This is a series I'll gladly read again and thoroughly recommend it.
January 21, 2024
Another fast paced action paced read. I said it last time & I’ll say it again Axel Blaze is one bad mamma jamma!!! If you’re looking for a Shakespearean novel or something like that this ain’t it. If you want in your face action grab this book. This series is very quickly moving up my list of favorites. I can’t wait for this series to make its way back around in my rotation. Don’t hesitate grab this today!!!
August 30, 2024
Good but with reservations
It's a good well thought out story, with a few little twists and surprises along the way, to stop it being entirely predictable
Unfortunately it is predictable and whilst the story focuses on Axel being an independent, the support he gets from the Marshals and DEA, is far too much for it not to be too much in the realms of deniability.
Any way it's a good book, with enough to keep the most avis action addict interested
It's a good well thought out story, with a few little twists and surprises along the way, to stop it being entirely predictable
Unfortunately it is predictable and whilst the story focuses on Axel being an independent, the support he gets from the Marshals and DEA, is far too much for it not to be too much in the realms of deniability.
Any way it's a good book, with enough to keep the most avis action addict interested
May 4, 2025
One Man Demolition Machine
Axel Blaze is an incredibly effective killing machine. His code of justice is bad guys never walk away without consequences for their actions. He and Adriel make a great team. This fast-paced, action-packed plot was filled with suspense and danger from beginning to end. Great characters, both good guys and bad guys. I can't get enough of Axel. This will appeal to those who want action and justice. It's a great book.
Axel Blaze is an incredibly effective killing machine. His code of justice is bad guys never walk away without consequences for their actions. He and Adriel make a great team. This fast-paced, action-packed plot was filled with suspense and danger from beginning to end. Great characters, both good guys and bad guys. I can't get enough of Axel. This will appeal to those who want action and justice. It's a great book.
May 22, 2022
Blazing hot!
I like novels written in first person. Lethal Force resonated with me as Blaze describes his thought process on how best to take down each opponent. He’s a master in armed/unarmed combat and although he kills a lot of men in his war against the cartel, everything seems believable. The author is very good at describing action scenes.
I like novels written in first person. Lethal Force resonated with me as Blaze describes his thought process on how best to take down each opponent. He’s a master in armed/unarmed combat and although he kills a lot of men in his war against the cartel, everything seems believable. The author is very good at describing action scenes.
June 21, 2022
Loved and love the narration of Kyle Snyder, perfect for this fast action booked
The book starts straight in action . There’s a contract out for Blaze from a Mexican cartel. Blaze is skilled at taking out people in any situation. They keep sending killers after him
Blaze heads to Mexico to end it once and for all. Oh that fight with the psycho giant called the Butcher WOW
The book starts straight in action . There’s a contract out for Blaze from a Mexican cartel. Blaze is skilled at taking out people in any situation. They keep sending killers after him
Blaze heads to Mexico to end it once and for all. Oh that fight with the psycho giant called the Butcher WOW
June 24, 2022
This was a great read from this author
We have a great lead character who continues to carry the series. I have come to find that these thrillers really bring so much to the table and keep me engrossed.
I loved the overall flow and how everything unfolded, I thought that part was perfectly done.
We have a great lead character who continues to carry the series. I have come to find that these thrillers really bring so much to the table and keep me engrossed.
I loved the overall flow and how everything unfolded, I thought that part was perfectly done.
June 27, 2022
This is a really good read and has absolutely exceeded and surpassed my expectations. Oh, the twists and turns.
I like how this draws in the reader with plenty of action and really does not let up.
The characters are great and we are on this mission right along with them.
If you enjoy plenty of suspense and action, pick this one up.
I like how this draws in the reader with plenty of action and really does not let up.
The characters are great and we are on this mission right along with them.
If you enjoy plenty of suspense and action, pick this one up.
November 14, 2024
When Axel Blaze put a Mexican cartel out of business in Little Butte, he always knew they wouldn't forgive or forget. When they target the daughter of his best friend he is plunged into a battle that'll eventually take him to Mexico and the cartel heartland.
This is a fast paced, Rambo-esque revenge fuelled mission that is very entertaining. It's not high on characterisation but then most of the supporting cast don't live long enough for a complex back story.
This is a fast paced, Rambo-esque revenge fuelled mission that is very entertaining. It's not high on characterisation but then most of the supporting cast don't live long enough for a complex back story.
March 30, 2025
Another fastpacebanger. . well worth the read
Axel Blaze surges during danger, his lethal sharply tune fighting skills a testament to his unbreakable spirit. Criminals and assassins converge, each plotting his demise, only to find themselves outmatched by his razor-sharp reflexes and unyielding determination.
Axel Blaze surges during danger, his lethal sharply tune fighting skills a testament to his unbreakable spirit. Criminals and assassins converge, each plotting his demise, only to find themselves outmatched by his razor-sharp reflexes and unyielding determination.
September 9, 2025
Lethal Force
I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book!!! Bill Runner is a brilliant author with a fantastic imagination and an uncanny ability for story telling. It was full of suspense, action, adventure and a lot of rooting for Axel and all of his friends an cohorts!!! I would highly recommend this series and can't wait to start the next book!!! Happy Reading!!!!
I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book!!! Bill Runner is a brilliant author with a fantastic imagination and an uncanny ability for story telling. It was full of suspense, action, adventure and a lot of rooting for Axel and all of his friends an cohorts!!! I would highly recommend this series and can't wait to start the next book!!! Happy Reading!!!!
July 1, 2022
Good story again...not great but definitely good and fun. Bill Runner relied less on cliches this time and that is great. LOVE Axel Blaze...reminds me of the No-Where Man (Orphan X)...gets the job done! And love his constant thought process as he reasons through his steps. Excited for #3!
February 6, 2023
Great story that holds you from the first page to the last and keeps the action coming until the very last page. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2023
Man of Action!
This is my bread and butter type of reading. Love it when the exact justice on the bad guys,simple as that. That what read Axle Blaze reading is like for me, make the bad guys, just is the worst way! Justice be served!
This is my bread and butter type of reading. Love it when the exact justice on the bad guys,simple as that. That what read Axle Blaze reading is like for me, make the bad guys, just is the worst way! Justice be served!
August 9, 2023
I wanted to rate this higher but I couldn't get past the writing. It feels like a fan fiction. The action scenes are great and will keep me reading. But the language and the descriptions of people are like a piece of high school "creative writing".
November 27, 2023
One of the better books in this genre.
Liked the hero and that he doesn’t spend his time on self reflection unlike many other books of this type where the heroes spend way too much time questioning themselves.
Liked the hero and that he doesn’t spend his time on self reflection unlike many other books of this type where the heroes spend way too much time questioning themselves.
January 5, 2024
enjoyable
I suppose you have to be a fan of this type of book…all blood and gore….good story line.
I prefer a little more thinking ….but as I say enjoyable fast paced and easy to read.
Happy to read more..
I suppose you have to be a fan of this type of book…all blood and gore….good story line.
I prefer a little more thinking ….but as I say enjoyable fast paced and easy to read.
Happy to read more..
February 17, 2024
Another fast & furious story
Second book I have read by Bill Runner he knows his stuff.
I like that the baddies get what they deserve and there is no pussy footing around .
Another great read I loved it.
Second book I have read by Bill Runner he knows his stuff.
I like that the baddies get what they deserve and there is no pussy footing around .
Another great read I loved it.
November 13, 2024
Book 2
Book 2 was a fun read and had a few errors throughout. The plot and characters developed well. The plot was a bit predictable but had a few twists. The characters are well thought out. There was a lot of back and forth, but overall it was interesting.
Book 2 was a fun read and had a few errors throughout. The plot and characters developed well. The plot was a bit predictable but had a few twists. The characters are well thought out. There was a lot of back and forth, but overall it was interesting.
February 11, 2025
A fast paced solid read
Similar to the first book Lethal Force has a lot of action and keeps up a good pace. Unlike the first book the hero is captured by the bad guys. I'd hope it won't be a continuing theme in this series. Not having it happen I'm book#1 was refreshing.
Similar to the first book Lethal Force has a lot of action and keeps up a good pace. Unlike the first book the hero is captured by the bad guys. I'd hope it won't be a continuing theme in this series. Not having it happen I'm book#1 was refreshing.
April 23, 2025
I've read the first 2 in the series and both are action packed and move swiftly but not to the detriment of character/ story.
Please leave your believablity at home but you won't want to put this down!
Please leave your believablity at home but you won't want to put this down!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews