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Axel Blaze #8
Dead Calm
One man rises from the stillness, unleashing hell's fury. They call him Blaze.
Dead Calm takes readers into Blaze’s past as a US Army Ranger. In the harsh Afghan terrain, Captain Axel Blaze faces his toughest mission honoring a dying friend’s plea to rescue his children from the clutches of the Taliban.
Blaze infiltrates deep into enemy territory. He finds an ally in senior CIA operative James Blake, whose daughter, medic and aid worker Madison, has gone missing. As Blaze navigates the treacherous landscape, he uncovers a flourishing drugs and arms network with a human trafficking ring in the sidelines.
The hunt takes Blaze from the unforgiving Afghan terrain to the back alleys of Sofia, Bulgaria, finally leading to the corridors of power in Washington DC.
Powerful people operating with impunity. Until they come in the crosshairs of a man called Blaze.
Page-turning thrillers in the lone ranger tradition of Jack Reacher, Mitch Rapp and The Gray Man novels. The fast-paced, brutal action in the Blaze series is attracting thriller readers worldwide.
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Praise for the
“Blaze combines the force of Reacher, the unapologetic badassery of Dirty Harry, the savagery of Frank Castle, and the calculated precision of Bourne.”
"Blaze is a no-nonsense guy. Shoot second...after head butting the guy first. My kind of hero!"
“Blaze is a badass in the real sense of the word. He doesn’t stop until every bad guy is broken or dead.”
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Readers are
★★★★★ “…non-stop action…”
★★★★★ “…fast and violent…”
★★★★★ “Blaze is the new badass in town!!”
★★★★★ “Must read! This series rocks!!”
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2024
About the author
Bill Runner
37 books62 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 34 reviews
September 20, 2024
The Axel Blaze series is the go-to series if you love a military thriller with just enough maim and mayhem. In this installment we go back to when he was an Army Ranger in Afghanistan. After a good friend and his wife are killed by the Taliban, their children have been captured. His friend’s dying wish is for Axel to find and rescue him. Not they type of man to back down, he gathers his rangers to go out and rescue them.
It starts with a clue as to where the boy is- deep in the remote mountains of Afghanistan. Stealth and speed are this team’s specialty and they make quick work of rescuing the children being kept there. The problem is the daughter is not there. From one of the survivors, they learn that she was to be taken to a safe house. Problem is that she also has been kidnapped and is just a few 8 miles away in an even more remote village.
Will they be able to rescue them? Or will this be too much for the small team of five.
All of the previous books have been about Axel’s post war life here in the US. This book is an interesting change. Bill still keeps the pace of previous books – a nonstop action, showing some of the strategies and ideas behind what makes our Army Rangers the best. This installment is so good, I read through nonstop. Also, I will be rereading the series starting from Book 1 – that is how good it is. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.
It starts with a clue as to where the boy is- deep in the remote mountains of Afghanistan. Stealth and speed are this team’s specialty and they make quick work of rescuing the children being kept there. The problem is the daughter is not there. From one of the survivors, they learn that she was to be taken to a safe house. Problem is that she also has been kidnapped and is just a few 8 miles away in an even more remote village.
Will they be able to rescue them? Or will this be too much for the small team of five.
All of the previous books have been about Axel’s post war life here in the US. This book is an interesting change. Bill still keeps the pace of previous books – a nonstop action, showing some of the strategies and ideas behind what makes our Army Rangers the best. This installment is so good, I read through nonstop. Also, I will be rereading the series starting from Book 1 – that is how good it is. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.
September 20, 2024
Blaze, Bullets, and Brotherhood—A Must-Read Thriller!
Dead Calm is a thriller that fires on all cylinders. It’s pure, unfiltered mayhem! The action scenes are cinematic, drawing you into each high-stakes operation as Axel Blaze and his Rangers take the fight to the Taliban.
What truly sets this book apart is not just the breakneck pacing or the intense firefights, but the camaraderie that Bill Runner brings to life through realistic dialogue. You can feel the bond between the Rangers, from their banter during moments of calm to their coordinated precision in battle. It’s the kind of dialogue that makes you believe these soldiers have been through hell together and come out the other side stronger.
But the action doesn’t stop in Afghanistan. When Blaze uncovers a trafficking ring linked to the Bulgarian mafia, the danger escalates as they chase these criminals from war-torn battlefields to the gritty underworld of Sofia.
Runner’s writing is razor-sharp, and he has a real talent for crafting tense, edge-of-your-seat thrillers. There’s never a moment where the plot drags, and by the time you reach the explosive finale, you’ll realize you haven’t been able to put the book down. If you love military thrillers packed with action, danger, and expertly written team dynamics, this book is a must-read.
Dead Calm is a thriller that fires on all cylinders. It’s pure, unfiltered mayhem! The action scenes are cinematic, drawing you into each high-stakes operation as Axel Blaze and his Rangers take the fight to the Taliban.
What truly sets this book apart is not just the breakneck pacing or the intense firefights, but the camaraderie that Bill Runner brings to life through realistic dialogue. You can feel the bond between the Rangers, from their banter during moments of calm to their coordinated precision in battle. It’s the kind of dialogue that makes you believe these soldiers have been through hell together and come out the other side stronger.
But the action doesn’t stop in Afghanistan. When Blaze uncovers a trafficking ring linked to the Bulgarian mafia, the danger escalates as they chase these criminals from war-torn battlefields to the gritty underworld of Sofia.
Runner’s writing is razor-sharp, and he has a real talent for crafting tense, edge-of-your-seat thrillers. There’s never a moment where the plot drags, and by the time you reach the explosive finale, you’ll realize you haven’t been able to put the book down. If you love military thrillers packed with action, danger, and expertly written team dynamics, this book is a must-read.
October 15, 2024
This is book 8 in a series featuring ex-ranger and ex-US Marshall Alex Blaze. This particular story is more of a 'prequel' and covers a dangerous mission in the Middle East to save the daughter of a contact, as well as the daughter of a high-placed US Government official.
It was a nice change to see Blaze in the context of his military exploits, and it made for a new and interesting storyline. The interactions between Blaze and his team were well done, and the characters were well-developed and realistic. It did a great job covering some uncomfortable topics such as human trafficking and the role of the US on the world stage.
I enjoyed this book very much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was a nice change to see Blaze in the context of his military exploits, and it made for a new and interesting storyline. The interactions between Blaze and his team were well done, and the characters were well-developed and realistic. It did a great job covering some uncomfortable topics such as human trafficking and the role of the US on the world stage.
I enjoyed this book very much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 20, 2024
Straight-Up Badass Action!
Dead Calm is a wild ride from start to finish, and Axel Blaze is the kind of no-nonsense hero we need in action thrillers. From the first page, the book throws you into the brutal world of Afghan warfare, where Blaze and his US Rangers are knee-deep in enemy territory, facing off against the Taliban. The action sequences are incredibly intense and vivid—every gunfight and ambush has you on the edge of your seat. The plot moves at breakneck speed, and just when you think things can’t get any crazier, Blaze uncovers a deadly conspiracy linking the Taliban to a European crime syndicate. It’s nonstop, gripping action all the way through!
Dead Calm is a wild ride from start to finish, and Axel Blaze is the kind of no-nonsense hero we need in action thrillers. From the first page, the book throws you into the brutal world of Afghan warfare, where Blaze and his US Rangers are knee-deep in enemy territory, facing off against the Taliban. The action sequences are incredibly intense and vivid—every gunfight and ambush has you on the edge of your seat. The plot moves at breakneck speed, and just when you think things can’t get any crazier, Blaze uncovers a deadly conspiracy linking the Taliban to a European crime syndicate. It’s nonstop, gripping action all the way through!
September 22, 2024
🔥💥 Get ready to be blown away by Dead Calm! This book is like a non-stop rollercoaster through the most intense action and jaw-dropping twists. Captain Blaze isn’t just any hero; he’s a force of nature, taking on the Taliban and a corrupt trafficking ring with nothing but sheer guts. If you’re into thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat and characters that explode off the page, grab this one pronto. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down! 🚀📚
September 23, 2024
Dead Calm is a high-octane thriller that plunges readers into the adrenaline-pumping world of Captain Axel Blaze, a US Army Ranger on a dangerous mission in Afghanistan. Blaze's quest to rescue a friend's children and dismantle a sinister trafficking network takes him from war-torn landscapes to the dark underbelly of Sofia, Bulgaria. The relentless action and intricate plot kept me hooked from start to finish, and Blaze’s gritty determination made this an unforgettable read.
August 18, 2025
Definitely a Keeper!
Since discovering Axel Blaze I’ve been captivated by his no nonsense approach to handling what needs to be done attitude. This is another whole chapter of his life that being portrayed in this and I believe in the seceding stories to come. I love the military angle of his story and the relationship between him and his men; especially the military slang. I find it refreshing and insightful. Can wait to read the next installment of Axle Blaze!
Since discovering Axel Blaze I’ve been captivated by his no nonsense approach to handling what needs to be done attitude. This is another whole chapter of his life that being portrayed in this and I believe in the seceding stories to come. I love the military angle of his story and the relationship between him and his men; especially the military slang. I find it refreshing and insightful. Can wait to read the next installment of Axle Blaze!
October 28, 2025
Dead Calm
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 Blaze and all of his friends and 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 Blaze and all of his friends and cohorts!!! I would highly recommend this series and can't wait to start the next book!!! Happy Reading!!!!
September 18, 2024
This follows him through his past and how he dealt with all the missions he has gone through. You will get pulled into his story as he show his courage as you learn everything about him. A thrilling read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
September 22, 2024
Epic
Great story coupled with great writing. What more could you want.
I recommend the series but, because this one goes back in time, you can read it as a stand alone.
Pure, unadulterated action from start to finish.
Fill yer boots
Great story coupled with great writing. What more could you want.
I recommend the series but, because this one goes back in time, you can read it as a stand alone.
Pure, unadulterated action from start to finish.
Fill yer boots
September 23, 2024
Dead Calm
An excellent story told at a fast pace that had me not wanting to put it down, so I didn't. I loved the banter between the team, it was rather amusing at times.
A story I will gladly read again.
An excellent story told at a fast pace that had me not wanting to put it down, so I didn't. I loved the banter between the team, it was rather amusing at times.
A story I will gladly read again.
September 23, 2024
Loved this book! Bill Runner did a great job with the details in this book. This is my first book by Bill Runner and I didn't realize it was book 8 in a series. I am definitely going to read the whole series in order.
September 26, 2024
loved it
Nonstop action and justice served all the way.
Great job Axel Blaze. Looking forward to your next adventure.
I have a feeling I know what the mission will be. Your brother….
🤙🤙🤙
Nonstop action and justice served all the way.
Great job Axel Blaze. Looking forward to your next adventure.
I have a feeling I know what the mission will be. Your brother….
🤙🤙🤙
October 14, 2024
This is the fifth book I've read written by Bill Runner; I can’t wait to read more of his books.
This is the eighth book in the Axel Blaze Thrillers; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Blaze.
This is the eighth book in the Axel Blaze Thrillers; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Blaze.
December 25, 2024
Book 8
Book 8 was a fun read and a continuation from the previous book. The plot and characters are developed well and have a few nice twists in the mix. There are a few errors throughout, but overall well done.
Book 8 was a fun read and a continuation from the previous book. The plot and characters are developed well and have a few nice twists in the mix. There are a few errors throughout, but overall well done.
September 22, 2024
A really good book!
I hope you enjoy reading Axel Blaze books like I do , I enjoy the action and doing things to make the world a better place!
I hope you enjoy reading Axel Blaze books like I do , I enjoy the action and doing things to make the world a better place!
September 23, 2024
dead calm
Action galore. So descriptively detailed that you feel involved in the story. Highly recommend for anyone who likes edge of the seat action
Action galore. So descriptively detailed that you feel involved in the story. Highly recommend for anyone who likes edge of the seat action
September 23, 2024
No 8 of a brilliant series . Great stories stemming from quality research combined with strong characters. Bill Runner is up there with best adventure writers
September 27, 2024
Another classic Axe Blaze barn burner! Thrilling, fast paced, and a tribute to our special operatives in uniform! Already have the sequel preordered!
October 9, 2024
good read
October 10, 2024
enjoyed this story
Great characters and story. Thanks. Looking forward to the next one - luckily it is only a couple of months away.
Great characters and story. Thanks. Looking forward to the next one - luckily it is only a couple of months away.
October 12, 2024
Dead Calm ...another action- packed winner.
Loved it! Just right to the point...no extraneous side stories just pure action. Throughly enjoyed this book. Thank you,Bill Runner.
Loved it! Just right to the point...no extraneous side stories just pure action. Throughly enjoyed this book. Thank you,Bill Runner.
November 11, 2024
Dead Good!
Another cracking read this time taking us back to Captain Adel Blaze in his Ranger days. As always plenty of action from the No1 bad a As that is Blaze
Another cracking read this time taking us back to Captain Adel Blaze in his Ranger days. As always plenty of action from the No1 bad a As that is Blaze
November 14, 2024
terrific
Great set of stories and events. Will no read the preceding books, which I had not seen. Thanks so much!
Great set of stories and events. Will no read the preceding books, which I had not seen. Thanks so much!
December 28, 2024
Great read
This is my first read of Bill
Runner. Outstanding book. Great characters and an edge of your seat story. Now I need to go back and start with book 1.
This is my first read of Bill
Runner. Outstanding book. Great characters and an edge of your seat story. Now I need to go back and start with book 1.
January 2, 2025
great read
great book from start to finish superbly written highly recommend to anyone that likes something a bit different to read
great book from start to finish superbly written highly recommend to anyone that likes something a bit different to read
January 22, 2025
Excellent
Great story telling one of the situations when Cowboy was a US Army Ranger. Very good story, recommend for sure, on to the next one.
Great story telling one of the situations when Cowboy was a US Army Ranger. Very good story, recommend for sure, on to the next one.
May 30, 2025
Another great story. Enjoy some of the back stories
when Axel was still with the Rangers.
when Axel was still with the Rangers.
June 1, 2025
Great book
Another very well written. Puts you in the middle of the action. The action flows very logically; not choppy. On to the next one!
Another very well written. Puts you in the middle of the action. The action flows very logically; not choppy. On to the next one!
June 26, 2025
My reading – five stars. Ohhhhhh … this novel was soooooo good! It was fast paced from beginning to end! Karma at the end was a bitch!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews