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No Mercy
A brand new espionage thriller series from Neil Lancaster, the author of the best-selling Max Craigie series. No Way Out, Book 2 in the series, available to order now! 'Feels like a blockbuster movie… Amazing, authentic characters, some of the best dialogue I've read' HELEN FIELDS
'Brilliant! Mark Billingham meets Guy Ritchie. A hugely entertaining, compelling read’ C.L. TAYLOR
'Pulse-pounding new thriller' THE MIRROR
ONE LAST MISSION TO AVENGE THE FALLEN
The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade.
When retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a home invasion, his valuable military medals are stolen. The medals resurface on the black market, and members of the 11/06 club discover they might have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking.
They may be old hard-cases living on past glories from the Falklands but they're still an elite group of ex-military operatives. Each one owes Frankie their life and will stop at nothing to repay their debt, so they come together for one final mission – to steal the medals back.
And Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her dad's medals. She wants revenge…
Readers love No Mercy:'Sensational – a high-octane, two-fisted spy thriller that fizzes with a rare authenticity’ TONY PARSONS
‘Buckle up for a wild ride!' PETERBOROUGH TELEGRAPH
'A classic heist tale with a twist from a master of the police procedural, the genius fingerprints of the author’s real identity – Neil Lancaster – are all over this book' TONY KENT, THE DAILY EXPRESS
'An enjoyable, fast-paced read' SCOTTISH FIELD
'Unputdownable read. The subplots all come together with an explosive conclusion' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Excellent new characters and great story' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A very enjoyable rollercoaster of a read. Action packed and gripping' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Brilliant! Mark Billingham meets Guy Ritchie. A hugely entertaining, compelling read’ C.L. TAYLOR
'Pulse-pounding new thriller' THE MIRROR
ONE LAST MISSION TO AVENGE THE FALLEN
The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade.
When retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a home invasion, his valuable military medals are stolen. The medals resurface on the black market, and members of the 11/06 club discover they might have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking.
They may be old hard-cases living on past glories from the Falklands but they're still an elite group of ex-military operatives. Each one owes Frankie their life and will stop at nothing to repay their debt, so they come together for one final mission – to steal the medals back.
And Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her dad's medals. She wants revenge…
Readers love No Mercy:'Sensational – a high-octane, two-fisted spy thriller that fizzes with a rare authenticity’ TONY PARSONS
‘Buckle up for a wild ride!' PETERBOROUGH TELEGRAPH
'A classic heist tale with a twist from a master of the police procedural, the genius fingerprints of the author’s real identity – Neil Lancaster – are all over this book' TONY KENT, THE DAILY EXPRESS
'An enjoyable, fast-paced read' SCOTTISH FIELD
'Unputdownable read. The subplots all come together with an explosive conclusion' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Excellent new characters and great story' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A very enjoyable rollercoaster of a read. Action packed and gripping' Reader review⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- GenresFiction
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 22, 2025
Max Connor is the pseudonym for a bestselling and award-winning author (one of my favourite authors as it happens)! Oh ok then, it’s none other than Neil Lancaster, he of the extremely popular DS Max Craigie series.
The Battle of Mount Harriet was an engagement of the Falklands War, which took place on the night of 11/12 June 1982 between British and Argentine forces.
Our protagonists are a group of ex military veterans who took part in that battle, and they are banding together for one last time after their old comrade, retired veteran and decorated Royal Marine Frankie Chapman, dies during a home invasion.
This then is the story of how our four veterans more commonly known as the 11/06 club set about recovering Frankie’s stolen military medals some 40 years after the Falklands war. The medals are worth quite an amount of money, but it’s Frankie’s honour that is at stake here not the monetary value.
Frankie’s daughter Jose joins the guys in their endeavour, but much as she wants her father’s medals back, she also wants revenge, someone will pay, and she is one determined woman!
Their search leads them to a billionaire, who is willing to pay for whatever his heart desires, regardless of how the items were acquired. In addition, he’s also involved in human trafficking, and clearly has no moral compass whatsoever.
This was a terrific storyline. The author has created a team of ex military veterans, (very ably assisted by Jose), who display the personal tensions and dark humour of a group of committed professionals used to operating in a high pressure environment. It was hugely entertaining, lots of tension, and interlaced with great big dollops of banter. Recommended.
*I was invited to read “No Mercy” by the publisher and have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
The Battle of Mount Harriet was an engagement of the Falklands War, which took place on the night of 11/12 June 1982 between British and Argentine forces.
Our protagonists are a group of ex military veterans who took part in that battle, and they are banding together for one last time after their old comrade, retired veteran and decorated Royal Marine Frankie Chapman, dies during a home invasion.
This then is the story of how our four veterans more commonly known as the 11/06 club set about recovering Frankie’s stolen military medals some 40 years after the Falklands war. The medals are worth quite an amount of money, but it’s Frankie’s honour that is at stake here not the monetary value.
Frankie’s daughter Jose joins the guys in their endeavour, but much as she wants her father’s medals back, she also wants revenge, someone will pay, and she is one determined woman!
Their search leads them to a billionaire, who is willing to pay for whatever his heart desires, regardless of how the items were acquired. In addition, he’s also involved in human trafficking, and clearly has no moral compass whatsoever.
This was a terrific storyline. The author has created a team of ex military veterans, (very ably assisted by Jose), who display the personal tensions and dark humour of a group of committed professionals used to operating in a high pressure environment. It was hugely entertaining, lots of tension, and interlaced with great big dollops of banter. Recommended.
*I was invited to read “No Mercy” by the publisher and have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
May 23, 2025
3.5 rounded up
Standing at the top of Mount Harriet during the Falkland War are five comrades, Royal Marine commandos, Frank ‘Chappers’ Chapman, Pete ‘ Charlie’ Drake, Neil Asquith, Jacko and Macca. They have a bond forged by being commandos, by war and of undying friendship and solidarity. By 2021, retired Chappers has served his country well and has a prosthetic leg to prove it and a bunch of highly distinguished and valuable medals. Sadly and tragically during the course of a robbery in which the medals are taken, Chappers dies. It seems the medals have been stolen to order, the burglar is caught but the medals are gone with the wind. His daughter Josie is a bubbling cauldron of emotions, she’s lost her beloved father, her mother is in late stage Alzheimer’s and those medals and their legitimate sale have been allocated for her expensive care. She’s sad but seething and so Josie and all of Chappers ex-colleagues vow revenge by hook or by crook they’ll get those medals back.
Max Connor is the pseudonym of Neil Lancaster, a favourite author of mine with his Max Craigie series being cracking thrillers, I don’t find this new series initially grabs me in the same way as those do, especially in the first half of the book. It seems to take a while to get going, for a pacey stride to emerge but thankfully it does. In the first half there’s an obsession with Jacko’s tombstone teeth which gets a bit wearing and he does seem to be a stereotypical villain with appropriately matching dialogue although he is very likeable and does come through for the others. Ditto for comments about Josie’s am-dram skills and her dislike of the comrades use of ‘girl’ which I can’t say I particularly blame her!
However, this team may be knocking on a bit
(not you Josie) but you wouldn’t want to cross them, as there are still a formidable bunch and I like them, and thankfully their banter gets better and better. Josie is quite the character too, she’s very fit, in fact she’s an adrenaline junkie which proves very useful here. She’s also creative and very resourceful, so go girl! As the plot develops it gets more intriguing and there are some excellent scenes in Scotland where the group get creative, brave and daring and it’s most enjoyable and entertaining. It has a good ending too and I look forward to the next in the series especially anticipating what this group might get up to!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated early copy and return for an honest review.
Standing at the top of Mount Harriet during the Falkland War are five comrades, Royal Marine commandos, Frank ‘Chappers’ Chapman, Pete ‘ Charlie’ Drake, Neil Asquith, Jacko and Macca. They have a bond forged by being commandos, by war and of undying friendship and solidarity. By 2021, retired Chappers has served his country well and has a prosthetic leg to prove it and a bunch of highly distinguished and valuable medals. Sadly and tragically during the course of a robbery in which the medals are taken, Chappers dies. It seems the medals have been stolen to order, the burglar is caught but the medals are gone with the wind. His daughter Josie is a bubbling cauldron of emotions, she’s lost her beloved father, her mother is in late stage Alzheimer’s and those medals and their legitimate sale have been allocated for her expensive care. She’s sad but seething and so Josie and all of Chappers ex-colleagues vow revenge by hook or by crook they’ll get those medals back.
Max Connor is the pseudonym of Neil Lancaster, a favourite author of mine with his Max Craigie series being cracking thrillers, I don’t find this new series initially grabs me in the same way as those do, especially in the first half of the book. It seems to take a while to get going, for a pacey stride to emerge but thankfully it does. In the first half there’s an obsession with Jacko’s tombstone teeth which gets a bit wearing and he does seem to be a stereotypical villain with appropriately matching dialogue although he is very likeable and does come through for the others. Ditto for comments about Josie’s am-dram skills and her dislike of the comrades use of ‘girl’ which I can’t say I particularly blame her!
However, this team may be knocking on a bit
(not you Josie) but you wouldn’t want to cross them, as there are still a formidable bunch and I like them, and thankfully their banter gets better and better. Josie is quite the character too, she’s very fit, in fact she’s an adrenaline junkie which proves very useful here. She’s also creative and very resourceful, so go girl! As the plot develops it gets more intriguing and there are some excellent scenes in Scotland where the group get creative, brave and daring and it’s most enjoyable and entertaining. It has a good ending too and I look forward to the next in the series especially anticipating what this group might get up to!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated early copy and return for an honest review.
May 29, 2025
This is a great thriller.
I’ve enjoyed Neil Lancaster’s other books and this looks to be the start of a new series, which I’ll definitely be reading.
Josie’s Dad is attacked in his own home and knocked violently to the ground. The thief got away with his treasured medals and when he passes away soon after, Josie wants revenge.
Her Dad’s old friends who all served with him agree that something needs to be done to get the medals back, and want to help.
The group soon start to put a plan into action when it’s clear the Police can’t do much.
They need to get to the root of the theft and realise the medals were stolen to order. There’s some dodgy characters that are just out for themselves, and Josie is great at weaving herself into their world.
This is an action packed crime thriller and I loved it.
I look forward to finding out what’s next for Josie.
Thanks to HQ for the opportunity to read this book.
I’ve enjoyed Neil Lancaster’s other books and this looks to be the start of a new series, which I’ll definitely be reading.
Josie’s Dad is attacked in his own home and knocked violently to the ground. The thief got away with his treasured medals and when he passes away soon after, Josie wants revenge.
Her Dad’s old friends who all served with him agree that something needs to be done to get the medals back, and want to help.
The group soon start to put a plan into action when it’s clear the Police can’t do much.
They need to get to the root of the theft and realise the medals were stolen to order. There’s some dodgy characters that are just out for themselves, and Josie is great at weaving herself into their world.
This is an action packed crime thriller and I loved it.
I look forward to finding out what’s next for Josie.
Thanks to HQ for the opportunity to read this book.
August 18, 2025
Feels like a blockbuster movie… Amazing, authentic characters, some of the best dialogue I've read' HELEN FIELDS
'Brilliant! Mark Billingham meets Guy Ritchie. A hugely entertaining, compelling read’ C.L. TAYLOR
'Pulse-pounding new thriller' THE MIRROR
The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade.
When retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a home invasion, his valuable military medals are stolen. The medals resurface on the black market, and members of the 11/06 club discover they might have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking.
They may be old hard-cases living on past glories from the Falklands but they're still an elite group of ex-military operatives. Each one owes Frankie their life and will stop at nothing to repay their debt, so they come together for one final mission – to steal the medals back.
And Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her dad's medals. She wants revenge…
A great first read from this author, first book read by this author, gripping well paced, full of great twists and great action
4 stars
'Brilliant! Mark Billingham meets Guy Ritchie. A hugely entertaining, compelling read’ C.L. TAYLOR
'Pulse-pounding new thriller' THE MIRROR
The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade.
When retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a home invasion, his valuable military medals are stolen. The medals resurface on the black market, and members of the 11/06 club discover they might have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking.
They may be old hard-cases living on past glories from the Falklands but they're still an elite group of ex-military operatives. Each one owes Frankie their life and will stop at nothing to repay their debt, so they come together for one final mission – to steal the medals back.
And Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her dad's medals. She wants revenge…
A great first read from this author, first book read by this author, gripping well paced, full of great twists and great action
4 stars
June 24, 2025
The 11/06 club’s members is made up of a group of ex-marines who have long since retired. But when one of them Frankie Chapman – a decorated Royal Marine is killed when a burglar breaks in to steal his medals, the police have no leads. Frankie’s wish was for his valuable medals to be sold to pay for his wife’s care home, so when the 11/06 club discover that they were stolen to order, with the help of Frankie’s daughter Josie, they decide to use their military training and get them back themselves. All of the men owe their life to their fallen comrade, after he saved each of them throughout their careers – and the time has now come for them to be able to repay their old friend. The search leads them to the Scottish Highlands, where a wealthy businessman known as the General who is a collector of rare and expensive things. Time is running out, so can the 11/06 club with the help of Josie get the medals back before it’s too late?
I loved this book immediately – not just because of who the author is but because of the synopsis of the story, and how well it unfolded from the outset! Having been a huge fan of this author since I read the first Tom Novak book, I was expecting big things, and I wasn’t disappointed! The story has raw emotion weaved though it, as I was reading, I could feel how much getting the medals back meant not only to the 11/06 club, but for Josie and her mum, and this made a great basis for this story. It added to the fact that each man had his own personal connection to Frankie, therefore his own reason for wanting to be involved, and I liked the fact that we got to know their stories throughout. It was so well written, it was easy to forget that the same author of the other series wrote this book, and I really liked that! It’s an amazing talent to be able to step outside of your usual writing style and become someone else. Having said that, there is a tiny bit of Neil like humour going on too! I thought it was a brilliant read, really enjoyed it! I hope we haven’t seen the last of the 11/06 club!
Thank you Max for letting me have an advanced copy in exchange for my review!
I loved this book immediately – not just because of who the author is but because of the synopsis of the story, and how well it unfolded from the outset! Having been a huge fan of this author since I read the first Tom Novak book, I was expecting big things, and I wasn’t disappointed! The story has raw emotion weaved though it, as I was reading, I could feel how much getting the medals back meant not only to the 11/06 club, but for Josie and her mum, and this made a great basis for this story. It added to the fact that each man had his own personal connection to Frankie, therefore his own reason for wanting to be involved, and I liked the fact that we got to know their stories throughout. It was so well written, it was easy to forget that the same author of the other series wrote this book, and I really liked that! It’s an amazing talent to be able to step outside of your usual writing style and become someone else. Having said that, there is a tiny bit of Neil like humour going on too! I thought it was a brilliant read, really enjoyed it! I hope we haven’t seen the last of the 11/06 club!
Thank you Max for letting me have an advanced copy in exchange for my review!
June 3, 2025
When their old comrade, retired veteran and decorated Royal Marine Frankie Chapman, dies during a home invasion, the 11/06 club come back together to recover his stolen military medals. After they find out the medals have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking, they form a plan to steal the medals back – and Frankie’s daughter, Josie, wants in on the action.
Hopefully a new series from a new author but wait – it’s actually a different pen name for Neil Lancaster. Well written, great characters, a fast paced story, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Yes it stretches the imagination at times but hey it’s fiction. I was drawn in from the start & read it in a couple of sittings
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Hopefully a new series from a new author but wait – it’s actually a different pen name for Neil Lancaster. Well written, great characters, a fast paced story, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Yes it stretches the imagination at times but hey it’s fiction. I was drawn in from the start & read it in a couple of sittings
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
August 27, 2025
The plot is one of a heist, comprising a team of near geriatric men (which is becoming a bit of a trope) but spiced up with a younger female and a motivation far from the norm. These are not career criminals or ex-soldiers bitter at the world, but rather men of honour trying to recover that of a dead colleague. Frankie’s medals were stolen to order, and he was fatally injured trying to hang on to them. These medals as a set are unique, they cannot be sold on the open market, so they were destined to be objects of desire for a wealthy criminal, just like looted art and antiquities.
For an author who excels at frantic high-octane thrillers, the first half of the story is relatively sedate in comparison. Seeing as four of the five protagonists are men around sixty years of age, with all the aches, pains, combat injuries and a touch of piles to contend with this is quite fitting. The second half is much more vigorous, rapidly building up in pace towards a clever set piece confrontation, packed with action and danger delivered with plenty of brio.
This is a crime caper rather than a full throttle thriller and it’s entertainingly put together with some serious messages and a lot of fun on the journey. Had it been set in the US there would have been the smell of burning rubber from the tyres of fast cars and the regular rapport of gunfire. Instead, it has a wonderfully understated Britishness about it which is perfect for the story, one where violence is more the last resort rather than the first. Fans of ‘boy’s toys’ don’t totally miss out as there are some cool items of tech deployed.
One of the great strengths of the story is the interactions between the four former soldiers, which can only come from first-hand experience. The annual reunion on the anniversary of their worst day, the 11/06 and battle of Mount Harriet in the Falklands war, a period for reflection and remembrance of lost colleagues is both convincing and poignant. For the reader this is an engaging ‘band of brothers’ with their camaraderie, loyalty and trust built up through adversity and tours of duty across the world. Then there is their peculiar form of lingo, a mixture of Royal Marine vocabulary and cockney rhyming slang, which together with their merciless ribbing and piss taking results in some colourful and hilarious dialogue. In the author’s notes he sets out what he was trying to achieve and for me he has nailed it.
Frankie’s daughter Josie brings a fresh vibrancy to the story; it comes as no surprise that we will be reading about her exploits going forward as she is presented with an interesting professional proposition. Josie was taught well be her father, learning the skills he developed over his career, from an early age. It is no wonder she turned into something of an adrenaline junkie, loving climbing and running ultra-marathons. She copes with the physical aspects that the men are no longer can and fires back the banter, managing to give equally as well as she takes. Josie must have ice in her veins as she goes undercover, with no prior experience, demonstrating ingenuity and intelligence. She is so well imagined, it is as if her life has been a training exercise for this day. It’s great to have a strong female character with a can of ‘whup-ass’ and this is one who can sustain a series.
The antagonist is suitably unpleasant. General Marek Bruzek has no redeeming features; he even tries to dress like a British officer in mufti and wears Cuban-heeled brogues. A man who saw no real action in his military career, therefore has no medals of his own to pore over, has a slight whiff of stolen valour about his medal collection. He may not be passing them off as his for gain, but he gets inordinate pleasure from the medals of others that he cannot display. However, this is not even his worst trait as the 11/06 gang discover something much darker.
For an author who excels at frantic high-octane thrillers, the first half of the story is relatively sedate in comparison. Seeing as four of the five protagonists are men around sixty years of age, with all the aches, pains, combat injuries and a touch of piles to contend with this is quite fitting. The second half is much more vigorous, rapidly building up in pace towards a clever set piece confrontation, packed with action and danger delivered with plenty of brio.
This is a crime caper rather than a full throttle thriller and it’s entertainingly put together with some serious messages and a lot of fun on the journey. Had it been set in the US there would have been the smell of burning rubber from the tyres of fast cars and the regular rapport of gunfire. Instead, it has a wonderfully understated Britishness about it which is perfect for the story, one where violence is more the last resort rather than the first. Fans of ‘boy’s toys’ don’t totally miss out as there are some cool items of tech deployed.
One of the great strengths of the story is the interactions between the four former soldiers, which can only come from first-hand experience. The annual reunion on the anniversary of their worst day, the 11/06 and battle of Mount Harriet in the Falklands war, a period for reflection and remembrance of lost colleagues is both convincing and poignant. For the reader this is an engaging ‘band of brothers’ with their camaraderie, loyalty and trust built up through adversity and tours of duty across the world. Then there is their peculiar form of lingo, a mixture of Royal Marine vocabulary and cockney rhyming slang, which together with their merciless ribbing and piss taking results in some colourful and hilarious dialogue. In the author’s notes he sets out what he was trying to achieve and for me he has nailed it.
Frankie’s daughter Josie brings a fresh vibrancy to the story; it comes as no surprise that we will be reading about her exploits going forward as she is presented with an interesting professional proposition. Josie was taught well be her father, learning the skills he developed over his career, from an early age. It is no wonder she turned into something of an adrenaline junkie, loving climbing and running ultra-marathons. She copes with the physical aspects that the men are no longer can and fires back the banter, managing to give equally as well as she takes. Josie must have ice in her veins as she goes undercover, with no prior experience, demonstrating ingenuity and intelligence. She is so well imagined, it is as if her life has been a training exercise for this day. It’s great to have a strong female character with a can of ‘whup-ass’ and this is one who can sustain a series.
The antagonist is suitably unpleasant. General Marek Bruzek has no redeeming features; he even tries to dress like a British officer in mufti and wears Cuban-heeled brogues. A man who saw no real action in his military career, therefore has no medals of his own to pore over, has a slight whiff of stolen valour about his medal collection. He may not be passing them off as his for gain, but he gets inordinate pleasure from the medals of others that he cannot display. However, this is not even his worst trait as the 11/06 gang discover something much darker.
June 2, 2025
Time taken to read - in and out over 6 days
Pages - 412
Publisher - HQ Stories
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade. But all she wants is revenge … When their old comrade, retired veteran and decorated Royal Marine Frankie Chapman, dies during a home invasion, the 11/06 club come back together to recover his stolen military medals. After they find out the medals have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking, they form a plan to steal the medals back – and Frankie’s daughter, Josie, wants in on the action.
But Josie wants more than just her father’s medals returned. She wants retribution, and she’s out for blood …
My Review
When a robbery results in the death of retired vet Frankie Chapman his old team pull together to get his military medals back. They weren't counting on his daughter not only joining them but being the driving force in some aspects. The more they dig the dirtier the people they find. As they get closer to finding the medals the danger ramps up, pulling resources they are trying to do what is right and will cross whatever lines it takes.
The book opens well with Frankie, bless him he is a good soul and Josie, his daughter, takes after her old man. The team investigating took a bit to really get started I felt, there was so much they needed to do and explore. Then we get to the people behind it, there is nothing this guy won't take if he wants it, money is no objective and no morals.
Once we get into the third end of the book I felt that is where it really came into its own, action, plan, movement, lets do this! Up to that I would say was more getting to know the character(s), them building up and becoming a team, the old boys previously served together but Josie was just their comrades daughter. One thing that did annoy me with Josie when when they called her a term of endearment (which was frequent) she would get annoyed and pull them on it, often! Maybe its just a generational thing, my folks friends still use kiddo, pet, terms for young women and whilst it can be grating as an adult let alone one who is breaking the law with them it just happened more than I liked. That and a frequent bladder although I absolutely got it and am the first to admit I am super prickly just now so things that normally would be water off a ducks back really gets under my skin just now.
I do like Josie's character and hopefully this is just book one in a new series, this is an established author writing under another name but I think this is my first time reading him, I will need to check. 3.5 rounder up to 4 because whilst I liked some bits and disliked some of the first 3/4's I did really really like the last quarter of the book. Pace, action, banter, interactions with each other so yeah 4/5 for us overall with all things considered.
Pages - 412
Publisher - HQ Stories
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade. But all she wants is revenge … When their old comrade, retired veteran and decorated Royal Marine Frankie Chapman, dies during a home invasion, the 11/06 club come back together to recover his stolen military medals. After they find out the medals have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking, they form a plan to steal the medals back – and Frankie’s daughter, Josie, wants in on the action.
But Josie wants more than just her father’s medals returned. She wants retribution, and she’s out for blood …
My Review
When a robbery results in the death of retired vet Frankie Chapman his old team pull together to get his military medals back. They weren't counting on his daughter not only joining them but being the driving force in some aspects. The more they dig the dirtier the people they find. As they get closer to finding the medals the danger ramps up, pulling resources they are trying to do what is right and will cross whatever lines it takes.
The book opens well with Frankie, bless him he is a good soul and Josie, his daughter, takes after her old man. The team investigating took a bit to really get started I felt, there was so much they needed to do and explore. Then we get to the people behind it, there is nothing this guy won't take if he wants it, money is no objective and no morals.
Once we get into the third end of the book I felt that is where it really came into its own, action, plan, movement, lets do this! Up to that I would say was more getting to know the character(s), them building up and becoming a team, the old boys previously served together but Josie was just their comrades daughter. One thing that did annoy me with Josie when when they called her a term of endearment (which was frequent) she would get annoyed and pull them on it, often! Maybe its just a generational thing, my folks friends still use kiddo, pet, terms for young women and whilst it can be grating as an adult let alone one who is breaking the law with them it just happened more than I liked. That and a frequent bladder although I absolutely got it and am the first to admit I am super prickly just now so things that normally would be water off a ducks back really gets under my skin just now.
I do like Josie's character and hopefully this is just book one in a new series, this is an established author writing under another name but I think this is my first time reading him, I will need to check. 3.5 rounder up to 4 because whilst I liked some bits and disliked some of the first 3/4's I did really really like the last quarter of the book. Pace, action, banter, interactions with each other so yeah 4/5 for us overall with all things considered.
October 8, 2025
I only discovered Neil Lancasters works last year and since have devoured his books, now writing as Max Connor we have a new read, one which I enjoyed immensely. A heart pounding read where the bonds of freindship can never be broken.
What you have here is a thriller, but not an all out action thriller, this is so much more than that you have a thoughful, nuanced read but one done out of respect to the characters which highlights the comradeship they have for each other.
As a plot it is very much character driven, characters that have real depth and feeling of authentiity about them. You care about them wanting to understand the bonds that tie them together. Brought about more by their ages you realise that this is going to be a thriller where the members of the 11/06 club are going to have to use their wits and combined skills in finding out the perpretators, as such it offers a more intelligent read, to counterbalance this you have Josie who borne out of a desire to see justice for her father is a bit more gung ho, as a character I love the way that Josie is written, she has a singled mindedness, not afraid, driven by circumstance, quick and inciteful she has the ability to quickly assesses the situation before her.
It is a plot which feels fresh and original hugely inventive it allows the characters to be the focal point. The way the author crafted and devopeld the plot introdicng us to a villain of dubious quality and morals for me shows an author who knows how to engage the reader. Along the way there is an ambitious DI who quickly realises there is something going on, it is up to the team to try and stay one step ahead whilst staying within the restraints of the law.
The book is slick and taut in its pacing, all the while building up the drama and intensity until it reaches its dramatic finale which is where the action ractchets up, even then though there is a sense of duty and doing the right thing, you have questions about morality which can cause conflict. There are plenty of jaw dropping moments and twists written into the narrative.
One thing the book also is and that is a highly emotionally charged read, as someone who has expirenced dealing with dementia the author got these passages spot on, dealt with respect and sympathy but with raw heartfelt emotion. It also felt as though the characters were personal to the author it added that something extra
This was a gripping and compelling read which I found hard to put down, with an ending where you wonder what may follow. You want entertainment then you have it in spades. Highly recommended
What you have here is a thriller, but not an all out action thriller, this is so much more than that you have a thoughful, nuanced read but one done out of respect to the characters which highlights the comradeship they have for each other.
As a plot it is very much character driven, characters that have real depth and feeling of authentiity about them. You care about them wanting to understand the bonds that tie them together. Brought about more by their ages you realise that this is going to be a thriller where the members of the 11/06 club are going to have to use their wits and combined skills in finding out the perpretators, as such it offers a more intelligent read, to counterbalance this you have Josie who borne out of a desire to see justice for her father is a bit more gung ho, as a character I love the way that Josie is written, she has a singled mindedness, not afraid, driven by circumstance, quick and inciteful she has the ability to quickly assesses the situation before her.
It is a plot which feels fresh and original hugely inventive it allows the characters to be the focal point. The way the author crafted and devopeld the plot introdicng us to a villain of dubious quality and morals for me shows an author who knows how to engage the reader. Along the way there is an ambitious DI who quickly realises there is something going on, it is up to the team to try and stay one step ahead whilst staying within the restraints of the law.
The book is slick and taut in its pacing, all the while building up the drama and intensity until it reaches its dramatic finale which is where the action ractchets up, even then though there is a sense of duty and doing the right thing, you have questions about morality which can cause conflict. There are plenty of jaw dropping moments and twists written into the narrative.
One thing the book also is and that is a highly emotionally charged read, as someone who has expirenced dealing with dementia the author got these passages spot on, dealt with respect and sympathy but with raw heartfelt emotion. It also felt as though the characters were personal to the author it added that something extra
This was a gripping and compelling read which I found hard to put down, with an ending where you wonder what may follow. You want entertainment then you have it in spades. Highly recommended
May 22, 2025
“Old soldiers never die, they only fade away” goes the old saying, but their skills can come in handy – especially for a heist for just reasons. Retired RSM Frankie Chapman, “Chappers” to his friends, was a multi-decorated hero of many conflicts, earning his highest honour during the Falklands War, when his bravery on Mount Harriet on 11th June 1982 saved the lives of his Section. Although they had all continued in different parts of the military after the war, they tried to meet up annually in a group known as the 11/06. A modest man, he keeps his medals in a shoebox under the bed, despite being worth at least £100K, and one day a burglar, intent on stealing them, accidentally kills him. The 11/06 join with Chappers’ daughter, Josie (an ultra-marathon runner and mountaineer), combine their skills, contacts and experience to trace and retrieve them, and ensure that all the perpetrators face justice.
This is a well-structured but not particularly original plot, but then it’s a heist story so the reader expects that. To make it stand out, it needs: original, well described and believable characters, a complicated target with a series of hazards and detailed descriptions of how these are circumvented, a number of twists to the linear course of events, and a satisfactory ending. Fortunately, these requirements are all met in this tale. The author has used his own military experience to provide convincing members for the 11/06, particularly their language and banter. The relationship between the veterans and Josie, is initially a bit problematic, but develops well, as she moves from being a potential concern to becoming, in essence, the leader of the pack. It isn’t perfect but my 4.5 rounds to 5.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
This is a well-structured but not particularly original plot, but then it’s a heist story so the reader expects that. To make it stand out, it needs: original, well described and believable characters, a complicated target with a series of hazards and detailed descriptions of how these are circumvented, a number of twists to the linear course of events, and a satisfactory ending. Fortunately, these requirements are all met in this tale. The author has used his own military experience to provide convincing members for the 11/06, particularly their language and banter. The relationship between the veterans and Josie, is initially a bit problematic, but develops well, as she moves from being a potential concern to becoming, in essence, the leader of the pack. It isn’t perfect but my 4.5 rounds to 5.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
June 6, 2025
I’m guessing Neil Lancaster has chosen to write under the pseudonym Max Connor as this is a breakaway from his usual police procedurals? I won’t précis the book for you as if you’re reading reviews about the book, I presume you’ve read the blurb on the book, written by better writers than me.
I’m a big Neil Lancaster fan and love his Max Craigie series, so I expected good things from this book about four ex-marines who team up with the daughter of one of their old colleagues, who dies while having his valuable set of military medals stolen. The five determine to get the medals back for the fifth member of the 11/06 club and Josie, his daughter, wants revenge.
The book didn’t disappoint, although I didn’t find it as enthralling as the author’s previous books. I found parts of the books a little slow and I found it hard to take to Josie. It particularly annoyed me that she strongly objected to being called a girl or being called ‘love’. She’s a young woman working with men in their sixties, men who had achieved as much as her father, and should (in my opinion) be treated by her with the same respect and reverence that she obviously felt for her Dad. Affectionate terms are not derogatory when used by close friends. Having said that, she contributed a lot with her particular set of useful skills, which the 11/06 club couldn’t have done without. This is, I’m guessing the springboard for a series starring Josie and I look forward to seeing how that pans out.
The story did ramp up towards the end and while you definitely have to suspend reality (it is fiction after all) the last part of the book was really exciting and the very end of the book brought tears to my eyes.
I’m a big Neil Lancaster fan and love his Max Craigie series, so I expected good things from this book about four ex-marines who team up with the daughter of one of their old colleagues, who dies while having his valuable set of military medals stolen. The five determine to get the medals back for the fifth member of the 11/06 club and Josie, his daughter, wants revenge.
The book didn’t disappoint, although I didn’t find it as enthralling as the author’s previous books. I found parts of the books a little slow and I found it hard to take to Josie. It particularly annoyed me that she strongly objected to being called a girl or being called ‘love’. She’s a young woman working with men in their sixties, men who had achieved as much as her father, and should (in my opinion) be treated by her with the same respect and reverence that she obviously felt for her Dad. Affectionate terms are not derogatory when used by close friends. Having said that, she contributed a lot with her particular set of useful skills, which the 11/06 club couldn’t have done without. This is, I’m guessing the springboard for a series starring Josie and I look forward to seeing how that pans out.
The story did ramp up towards the end and while you definitely have to suspend reality (it is fiction after all) the last part of the book was really exciting and the very end of the book brought tears to my eyes.
July 1, 2025
📚 OUT NOW!
So now that I’ve finally realised that the author is writing under a pseudonym for book No.7 that I have read. I’m thinking ‘oh they have the wrong author name on the book pic’. To be fair lack of sleep and all that 🤣🤭🤣 …. Sorry I digress!!
🔴 The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade.
When retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a home invasion, his valuable military medals are stolen. The medals resurface on the black market, and members of the 11/06 club discover they might have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking.
They may be old hard-cases living on past glories from the Falklands but they're still an elite group of ex-military operatives. Each one owes Frankie their life and will stop at nothing to repay their debt, so they come together for one final mission – to steal the medals back.
And Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her dad's medals. She wants revenge… 🔴
This book … (after I got over my strop, that my favourite characters were not to be had and totally different story - what can I say. I’m an only child lol!!).
I LOVED IT!!
The character’s were just fab. Josie and the group of men that were in the forces with her father. The bond that formed & progressed between them throughout the book, was just magical. My cheeks were sore smiling at parts and next I would be reaching for a tissue. These men would do anything to keep her safe, but Josie lets them see, that she is a chip off the old block (aka her dad).
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So now that I’ve finally realised that the author is writing under a pseudonym for book No.7 that I have read. I’m thinking ‘oh they have the wrong author name on the book pic’. To be fair lack of sleep and all that 🤣🤭🤣 …. Sorry I digress!!
🔴 The old unit will reunite to complete one last mission in honour of their fallen comrade.
When retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a home invasion, his valuable military medals are stolen. The medals resurface on the black market, and members of the 11/06 club discover they might have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking.
They may be old hard-cases living on past glories from the Falklands but they're still an elite group of ex-military operatives. Each one owes Frankie their life and will stop at nothing to repay their debt, so they come together for one final mission – to steal the medals back.
And Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her dad's medals. She wants revenge… 🔴
This book … (after I got over my strop, that my favourite characters were not to be had and totally different story - what can I say. I’m an only child lol!!).
I LOVED IT!!
The character’s were just fab. Josie and the group of men that were in the forces with her father. The bond that formed & progressed between them throughout the book, was just magical. My cheeks were sore smiling at parts and next I would be reaching for a tissue. These men would do anything to keep her safe, but Josie lets them see, that she is a chip off the old block (aka her dad).
https://www.facebook.com/Bookstagramshaz
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May 18, 2025
No Mercy Review
This is a truthful and honest review thanks to netgalley for allowing me this early access.
First and foremost I enjoyed the book. Not what I expected but still a really enjoyable read. The author has shown a lot of respect to fallen comrades and his intel and history of the Falklands war. These characters were there on the 11/06/1982 hence they are now known as the 11/06 club
The bit i loved most was the banter, 4 oldish ex marines you have to expect banter and it was delivered in spades. They were a determined bunch after learning what had happened to the former comrade, coming together to solve a mystery the police were unable to do anything about.
What let the book down for me was Josie, her attitude just annoyed me, she's too immature for my liking always complaining when the 11/06 lads called her Love. They are older than her and a little respect from her would have just made her a better character surely after knowing Macca for years she should have known what he was like. Saying that her risk taken thankfully always paid of which did make me think about the oh what if she was caught what would happen then my brain would go in all different directions, which is something I do like in a book.
The ending of the book has left me wanting more and in a good way Josie has been given a chance to take her adrenaline addiction to a new level, this is something I am looking forward to. Also I do want to find out how Mecca’s date with the spoke went.
This is a truthful and honest review thanks to netgalley for allowing me this early access.
First and foremost I enjoyed the book. Not what I expected but still a really enjoyable read. The author has shown a lot of respect to fallen comrades and his intel and history of the Falklands war. These characters were there on the 11/06/1982 hence they are now known as the 11/06 club
The bit i loved most was the banter, 4 oldish ex marines you have to expect banter and it was delivered in spades. They were a determined bunch after learning what had happened to the former comrade, coming together to solve a mystery the police were unable to do anything about.
What let the book down for me was Josie, her attitude just annoyed me, she's too immature for my liking always complaining when the 11/06 lads called her Love. They are older than her and a little respect from her would have just made her a better character surely after knowing Macca for years she should have known what he was like. Saying that her risk taken thankfully always paid of which did make me think about the oh what if she was caught what would happen then my brain would go in all different directions, which is something I do like in a book.
The ending of the book has left me wanting more and in a good way Josie has been given a chance to take her adrenaline addiction to a new level, this is something I am looking forward to. Also I do want to find out how Mecca’s date with the spoke went.
June 2, 2025
Book Review - No Mercy by Max Connor
(Thriller, Action, Adventure, Heist)
5 stars out of 5
Being a big fan of the Max Craigie series of books by Neil Lancaster, I was interested to read a book by this author using a different 'voice; and pen name. We still get the fast past, action and characters in uniform (although not police this time). I loved it.
This may sound strange but think of Enid Blyton's Adventure Series of books and mix it up with the Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman. Add a very heavy dose of action and suspense, and like me, you may end up with these kind of thoughts in your head.
I absolutely loved the book. Bringing together 4 ex-Royal Marines who are now retired, and a daughter of a Marine who is out looking for revenge and you get a great story with wonderful characters and location.
Some may say that it is a little long and sometimes far fetched but I feel that the length of the book gives the author a chance to do what he does perfectly by building up a relationship between the readers and the characters, and use your imagination a little, it is fiction after all.
I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys reading action and adventure books, be they in their teens or in their elder years.
Many thanks to HQ, NetGalley and the author, for providing me with an advanced electronic copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The book is published on the 5th of June, so not long to wait) and will be available in paperback, e-book and audiobook formats
(Thriller, Action, Adventure, Heist)
5 stars out of 5
Being a big fan of the Max Craigie series of books by Neil Lancaster, I was interested to read a book by this author using a different 'voice; and pen name. We still get the fast past, action and characters in uniform (although not police this time). I loved it.
This may sound strange but think of Enid Blyton's Adventure Series of books and mix it up with the Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman. Add a very heavy dose of action and suspense, and like me, you may end up with these kind of thoughts in your head.
I absolutely loved the book. Bringing together 4 ex-Royal Marines who are now retired, and a daughter of a Marine who is out looking for revenge and you get a great story with wonderful characters and location.
Some may say that it is a little long and sometimes far fetched but I feel that the length of the book gives the author a chance to do what he does perfectly by building up a relationship between the readers and the characters, and use your imagination a little, it is fiction after all.
I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys reading action and adventure books, be they in their teens or in their elder years.
Many thanks to HQ, NetGalley and the author, for providing me with an advanced electronic copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The book is published on the 5th of June, so not long to wait) and will be available in paperback, e-book and audiobook formats
May 31, 2025
Briefly - Decent pacey read though I prefer the Craigie stories personally.
In full
Frankie (Chapman and ultimately a Regimental Sergeant Major) was in the Marines and was highly decorated for his service. He fought in many conflicts including the Falklands. He was not a man to show off his medals generally however he would wear them to the War Memorial gathering in November to pay respect to his fallen brothers. He is about to leave for the service when the phone goes. It's the nursing home his wife is in with dementia and she is troubled. He takes the medals off and goes to see her. When he returns he disturbs a thief who has his box of medals and nothing else. There's a scuffle and he dies as a result.
So starts this book and it sets a scene nicely. His daughter, Josie, is devastated and returns home immediately. At his funeral some of those who served with him in the Falklands are talking things through. They represent a small club calling themselves the 11/06 club (named after an incident in the Falklands war) and they wonder what they can do to help. The story follows the efforts of the 11/06 club to try and get the medals back. Josie refuses to be excluded!
There's a decent tale here. It's violent at times and, as with most of these type of books, credibility is strained at times. The 11/06 club are a nicely varied collection of characters (4 of them) and Josie, as Frankie's daughter has a good skill set to compliment those of her father's generation. Given there's a Cockney in the 11/06 we get quite a bit of rhyming slang and there's plenty of Marine terms too. I did find this a bit of a distraction as each bit of slang had to be explained.
This is a good pacey read and fans of Neil Lancaster's other books (Max Connor is a pseudonym) should definitely enjoy reading this. Personally I prefer the Max Craigie series by this author but this is a good enough read. The book is set up for another book with Josie as the lead character - while I found her a good action character I'd have liked a bit more depth but perhaps that will come in the next book.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
In full
Frankie (Chapman and ultimately a Regimental Sergeant Major) was in the Marines and was highly decorated for his service. He fought in many conflicts including the Falklands. He was not a man to show off his medals generally however he would wear them to the War Memorial gathering in November to pay respect to his fallen brothers. He is about to leave for the service when the phone goes. It's the nursing home his wife is in with dementia and she is troubled. He takes the medals off and goes to see her. When he returns he disturbs a thief who has his box of medals and nothing else. There's a scuffle and he dies as a result.
So starts this book and it sets a scene nicely. His daughter, Josie, is devastated and returns home immediately. At his funeral some of those who served with him in the Falklands are talking things through. They represent a small club calling themselves the 11/06 club (named after an incident in the Falklands war) and they wonder what they can do to help. The story follows the efforts of the 11/06 club to try and get the medals back. Josie refuses to be excluded!
There's a decent tale here. It's violent at times and, as with most of these type of books, credibility is strained at times. The 11/06 club are a nicely varied collection of characters (4 of them) and Josie, as Frankie's daughter has a good skill set to compliment those of her father's generation. Given there's a Cockney in the 11/06 we get quite a bit of rhyming slang and there's plenty of Marine terms too. I did find this a bit of a distraction as each bit of slang had to be explained.
This is a good pacey read and fans of Neil Lancaster's other books (Max Connor is a pseudonym) should definitely enjoy reading this. Personally I prefer the Max Craigie series by this author but this is a good enough read. The book is set up for another book with Josie as the lead character - while I found her a good action character I'd have liked a bit more depth but perhaps that will come in the next book.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
May 29, 2025
I hadn’t heard of Max Connor, but when I started to read No Mercy, the writing style had a certain familiarity, which I couldn’t pinpoint. I subsequently discovered that Connor is Neil Lancaster, an author I like and I’ve read many of his books. He has a particular style and I feel that’s very well reflected in No Mercy where the writing and character development feels accomplished.
Back to the story; well you’ll have suspend credulity a little. I’m not entirely convinced that a 30 year old female would bond with her late dad’s old comrades to perform a heist in Scotland. A home robbery is bungled, Ex Marine Frankie Chapman is killed and his medals are stolen. He was one of a group of ex Marines who met up every June to reminisce. His daughter, Josie, swears revenge and enlists the help of his buddies. The trail takes the group to a castle in Scotland and involves European oligarchs and people trafficking. That said, it’s an entertaining romp and a fast piece of pure escapist fiction. I fell into their exclusive little world quite easily and even with some of the scenario being slightly preposterous, I was swept along with the story. Well paced and the characters are believable…although I found Josie rather irritating. Clearly the bones for a series, so it’s watch this space and it could do very well.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.
Back to the story; well you’ll have suspend credulity a little. I’m not entirely convinced that a 30 year old female would bond with her late dad’s old comrades to perform a heist in Scotland. A home robbery is bungled, Ex Marine Frankie Chapman is killed and his medals are stolen. He was one of a group of ex Marines who met up every June to reminisce. His daughter, Josie, swears revenge and enlists the help of his buddies. The trail takes the group to a castle in Scotland and involves European oligarchs and people trafficking. That said, it’s an entertaining romp and a fast piece of pure escapist fiction. I fell into their exclusive little world quite easily and even with some of the scenario being slightly preposterous, I was swept along with the story. Well paced and the characters are believable…although I found Josie rather irritating. Clearly the bones for a series, so it’s watch this space and it could do very well.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.
May 31, 2025
Four veterans their friendship forged from fighting together on the slopes of Mount Harriet in the Falklands attend the funeral of Chappers, one of their own, the victim of a robbery turned manslaughter when he tried to stop a junkie from making off with his impressive medal collection.
The members of the 11/06 club might be in their sixties but these ex-marines still have a glint in their eye and nerves of steel, its just the other parts that are letting them down these days. Their discussion turns to the perpetrator and the likelihood of him ever receiving a sentence worthy of his crime or the medals being recovered and a plan begins to take shape.
I'm a big fan of the authors Max Craigie books under a different name so couldn't wait to get into this one.
There's a lot to love about this group of aging veterans and the storyline which had them putting their ailments aside and heading off up to Scotland on a daring mission to recover the medals, ably assisted by Chappers daughter Josie.
Its a bit far fetched and a bit of a yarn but with a good mix of heroes, villains, humour and plenty of heart its a decent read that I have a feeling ex military types will love. Definitely recommended.
Due for publication Jun 25: My thanks to HQ an imprint of HarperCollins and NetGalley for the early read.
The members of the 11/06 club might be in their sixties but these ex-marines still have a glint in their eye and nerves of steel, its just the other parts that are letting them down these days. Their discussion turns to the perpetrator and the likelihood of him ever receiving a sentence worthy of his crime or the medals being recovered and a plan begins to take shape.
I'm a big fan of the authors Max Craigie books under a different name so couldn't wait to get into this one.
There's a lot to love about this group of aging veterans and the storyline which had them putting their ailments aside and heading off up to Scotland on a daring mission to recover the medals, ably assisted by Chappers daughter Josie.
Its a bit far fetched and a bit of a yarn but with a good mix of heroes, villains, humour and plenty of heart its a decent read that I have a feeling ex military types will love. Definitely recommended.
Due for publication Jun 25: My thanks to HQ an imprint of HarperCollins and NetGalley for the early read.
June 5, 2025
What an exciting read!
Josie Chapman has been raised to be a stong individual; her brave father served in the armed forces and has a raft of medals to prove it. Her mother has dementia and lives in a care home. When her father's home is targeted and his medals stolen, he arrives home just in time to tackle the intruder and the ensuing scuffle results in 'Chappers' death. Not only bereft, Josie is also angry and wants revenge - and a bit more. When the 11/06 men, her father's former comrades get together and learn that the medals were intended to provide for her mother's care, they decide to see if they can work out how to get them back - and Josie is determined that they're not doing anything without her!
I'm a big fan of Neil Lancaster's Max Craigie series, so when I realised that Max Connor is his pseudonym, I was excited to read this one. It is a roller coaster ride from beginning to end; packed with characters with a lot of life experience who, while not perfect, will do anything for a mate. Blood-pumping, heart-pounding moments abound and I read long after I should have closed my eyes and gone to sleep - I just couldn't wait to find out what happened next! An absolutely terrific, thrilling novel which I can't help but recommend and, of course, no less than all five sparkling stars will do!
Josie Chapman has been raised to be a stong individual; her brave father served in the armed forces and has a raft of medals to prove it. Her mother has dementia and lives in a care home. When her father's home is targeted and his medals stolen, he arrives home just in time to tackle the intruder and the ensuing scuffle results in 'Chappers' death. Not only bereft, Josie is also angry and wants revenge - and a bit more. When the 11/06 men, her father's former comrades get together and learn that the medals were intended to provide for her mother's care, they decide to see if they can work out how to get them back - and Josie is determined that they're not doing anything without her!
I'm a big fan of Neil Lancaster's Max Craigie series, so when I realised that Max Connor is his pseudonym, I was excited to read this one. It is a roller coaster ride from beginning to end; packed with characters with a lot of life experience who, while not perfect, will do anything for a mate. Blood-pumping, heart-pounding moments abound and I read long after I should have closed my eyes and gone to sleep - I just couldn't wait to find out what happened next! An absolutely terrific, thrilling novel which I can't help but recommend and, of course, no less than all five sparkling stars will do!
June 30, 2025
I have read several books by Neil Lancaster, Max Connor’s, other pseudonym. His police crime drama series are fantastic. With this new identity he is breaking into the thriller genre. No Mercy is a great read and slow burns through several episodes to a multi chapter crescendo. The characters are well built, human and fallible, which sets them apart in a genre filled with Jack Reacher’esque hard men. It feels an ensemble cast after the first few chapters and the opening twist with the various different characters each bringing their own contributions to the story.
The final ‘heist’ is crazy enough to be exciting, has enough twists to keep you enthralled but retains a realism that keeps it grounded. Possibly my favourite line was when facing a meticulously planned but tricky exit to disappear into the night the gang opts for “or we could nick their Land Rover”. It’s what I would have done!
At times the book felt more screenplay than novel for me, with several dramatic events on the gangs journey that felt like the culmination of this week’s episode. I think it would make a very fine four episode TV drama. My only story criticism is quite how neat and tidily everything gets wrapped up at the end… Although I do like a tidy ending.
All in all a great thriller, with I suspect more to come from Max.
Thanks to NegGalley and HarperCollins for an eARC of this book.
The final ‘heist’ is crazy enough to be exciting, has enough twists to keep you enthralled but retains a realism that keeps it grounded. Possibly my favourite line was when facing a meticulously planned but tricky exit to disappear into the night the gang opts for “or we could nick their Land Rover”. It’s what I would have done!
At times the book felt more screenplay than novel for me, with several dramatic events on the gangs journey that felt like the culmination of this week’s episode. I think it would make a very fine four episode TV drama. My only story criticism is quite how neat and tidily everything gets wrapped up at the end… Although I do like a tidy ending.
All in all a great thriller, with I suspect more to come from Max.
Thanks to NegGalley and HarperCollins for an eARC of this book.
May 26, 2025
When their old comrade, retired veteran and decorated Royal Marine, Frankie Chapman, dies during a home invasion, the 11/06 club comes back together to recover his stolen military medals. After they find out his medals have fallen into the hands of a wealthy billionaire who dabbles in human trafficking, they form a plan to steal the medals back - and Frankie's daughter, Josie, wants in on the action. But Josie wants more than just her father's medals returned. She wants retribution, and she's out for blood.
The 11/06 club members were all on the Falkland Islands during the war on 11/06/1982. The story starts as one of the 11/06 club members, Frankie Chapman's medals are stolen. His daughter meets up with his old comrades, needing the help of the 11/06 club members to help her get her fathers medals back. But Josue also wants revenge.
Published 5th June 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQStories and the author #MaxConnor for my ARC of #NoMercy in exchange for an honest review.
Each character is well-developed and they each have a unique skill set. Josie is a courageous girl, but it wasn't long before she started to get annoying. I liked all the retired Marines and the banter they shared.
The 11/06 club members were all on the Falkland Islands during the war on 11/06/1982. The story starts as one of the 11/06 club members, Frankie Chapman's medals are stolen. His daughter meets up with his old comrades, needing the help of the 11/06 club members to help her get her fathers medals back. But Josue also wants revenge.
Published 5th June 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQStories and the author #MaxConnor for my ARC of #NoMercy in exchange for an honest review.
Each character is well-developed and they each have a unique skill set. Josie is a courageous girl, but it wasn't long before she started to get annoying. I liked all the retired Marines and the banter they shared.
June 15, 2025
No mercy
When Frankie Chapman a tough veteran marine commando dies after confronting a burglar in his home who is stealing his precious war medals his tough as nails daughter Josie and The 11/06 club band together after discovering the medals were stolen to order. The 11/06 club comprises of a group of 4 veterans that served with Frankie from conflicts in the Falkland to Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo and beyond.
They forge a plan to infiltrate the ‘castle’ of the collector who has all manner of priceless articles stolen to order for his own private collection.
With great military banter these veterans with their aged hips, knees, weak bladders and even haemorrhoids are determined to steal back the medals.
This is an entertaining terrific read that has humour, a cast of characters with depth and such a well constructed story it is page turning and full of heart beating moments. Being an army veteran nurse during the Falklands conflict it brought back many memories not just of the bravery of the forces but their ability to to make light of difficult conditions by humour and comradeship.
The finale was superb as was this well constructed thriller from this author, top class as usual.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
When Frankie Chapman a tough veteran marine commando dies after confronting a burglar in his home who is stealing his precious war medals his tough as nails daughter Josie and The 11/06 club band together after discovering the medals were stolen to order. The 11/06 club comprises of a group of 4 veterans that served with Frankie from conflicts in the Falkland to Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo and beyond.
They forge a plan to infiltrate the ‘castle’ of the collector who has all manner of priceless articles stolen to order for his own private collection.
With great military banter these veterans with their aged hips, knees, weak bladders and even haemorrhoids are determined to steal back the medals.
This is an entertaining terrific read that has humour, a cast of characters with depth and such a well constructed story it is page turning and full of heart beating moments. Being an army veteran nurse during the Falklands conflict it brought back many memories not just of the bravery of the forces but their ability to to make light of difficult conditions by humour and comradeship.
The finale was superb as was this well constructed thriller from this author, top class as usual.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
June 18, 2025
5 Stars from me ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved this book which gave me serious 'New Tricks' vibes and oh my god now I've got the theme tune stuck in my head 🤦♀️
Although actually to be fair I think it was kind of a Oceans 11/New Tricks hybrid. Either way, it was gripping and engaging and I loved it.
No Mercy is the perfect thriller, with a reasonable amount of peril throughout and a mission based on heart, integrity and defending honour. It's no surprise the book is good given that Max Connor is the pseudonym of bestselling author, Neil Lancaster, whose DS Max Craigie series I also happen to love.
Josie and a gang of ex-military operatives form an unlikely but formidable team intent on retrieving her dad's war medals from a particularly nasty collector. The job puts them all at risk in a variety of ways, and Josie surprises them all making it clear she is a chip off the old block.
Alongside this main storyline sits another unpleasant hobby of the wealthy collector - human trafficking and the story nicely highlights an underworld full of individuals confident in the belief that wealth puts them above the law.
My thanks to the author, Netgalley and HQ Digital for an ARC in return for an honest review.
I loved this book which gave me serious 'New Tricks' vibes and oh my god now I've got the theme tune stuck in my head 🤦♀️
Although actually to be fair I think it was kind of a Oceans 11/New Tricks hybrid. Either way, it was gripping and engaging and I loved it.
No Mercy is the perfect thriller, with a reasonable amount of peril throughout and a mission based on heart, integrity and defending honour. It's no surprise the book is good given that Max Connor is the pseudonym of bestselling author, Neil Lancaster, whose DS Max Craigie series I also happen to love.
Josie and a gang of ex-military operatives form an unlikely but formidable team intent on retrieving her dad's war medals from a particularly nasty collector. The job puts them all at risk in a variety of ways, and Josie surprises them all making it clear she is a chip off the old block.
Alongside this main storyline sits another unpleasant hobby of the wealthy collector - human trafficking and the story nicely highlights an underworld full of individuals confident in the belief that wealth puts them above the law.
My thanks to the author, Netgalley and HQ Digital for an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 31, 2025
When I heard that Neil Lancaster has a new book out under the pseudonym Max Connor, I was so intrigued. I am a big fan of his Max Cragie series, so I couldn’t wait to read this.
Veteran Frankie Chapman was a servicemen in the Falklands wa. Hw was a Sargent Major in the Marines and was highly decorated for his service . He fought in many conflicts and had medals to show for it.
when there is a house invasion and it tries to stop. The junkie stealing the medals he is killed in the process. His old colleagues in the special forces the 11 06 club come together with his daughter Josie to plan to get the medals back. There are not just sentimental value, but Jose wants to sell them and use the money to pay for her mothers care. She is in a home and has Dementia.
I didn’t know what to expect from “ No mercy” since this is not a police procedural, but I’m surprised how much I enjoyed this. Not only is it full of action and has a great storyline, but the members of 11 06 Josie all such likeable and believable characters Under great banter between them. this is a great read, and I hope there is more of the story to come. 5 stars from me.
Veteran Frankie Chapman was a servicemen in the Falklands wa. Hw was a Sargent Major in the Marines and was highly decorated for his service . He fought in many conflicts and had medals to show for it.
when there is a house invasion and it tries to stop. The junkie stealing the medals he is killed in the process. His old colleagues in the special forces the 11 06 club come together with his daughter Josie to plan to get the medals back. There are not just sentimental value, but Jose wants to sell them and use the money to pay for her mothers care. She is in a home and has Dementia.
I didn’t know what to expect from “ No mercy” since this is not a police procedural, but I’m surprised how much I enjoyed this. Not only is it full of action and has a great storyline, but the members of 11 06 Josie all such likeable and believable characters Under great banter between them. this is a great read, and I hope there is more of the story to come. 5 stars from me.
June 6, 2025
4.5⭐
When Falklands War hero, friend, father, husband, and retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a robbery at his home, the only thing stolen is his prized medals.
So his 4 friends and the remaining members of the 11/06 Club, named after the Battle of Mount Harriet in which they served, unite for one final mission. However, they are not alone in their endeavours, as Frankie's daughter, Josie, insists on joining the action. As she is determined not only to retrieve her father's medals but also to seek revenge.
Yet, what the 11/06 Club and Josie don't anticipate is that the medals will resurface and fall into the hands of a billionaire who is also an alleged human trafficker.
Nevertheless, this won't stop these wily old veterans and a daughter focused on achieving honour and justice for her hero.
And with pulse-pounding moments, great characters, personal tensions, dark humor, banter, and emotional depth, this is a gripping thriller that I would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to HQ Digital and NeyGalley for my foot of No Mercy. all thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
When Falklands War hero, friend, father, husband, and retired Royal Marine Frankie Chapman is killed during a robbery at his home, the only thing stolen is his prized medals.
So his 4 friends and the remaining members of the 11/06 Club, named after the Battle of Mount Harriet in which they served, unite for one final mission. However, they are not alone in their endeavours, as Frankie's daughter, Josie, insists on joining the action. As she is determined not only to retrieve her father's medals but also to seek revenge.
Yet, what the 11/06 Club and Josie don't anticipate is that the medals will resurface and fall into the hands of a billionaire who is also an alleged human trafficker.
Nevertheless, this won't stop these wily old veterans and a daughter focused on achieving honour and justice for her hero.
And with pulse-pounding moments, great characters, personal tensions, dark humor, banter, and emotional depth, this is a gripping thriller that I would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to HQ Digital and NeyGalley for my foot of No Mercy. all thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
June 20, 2025
NO MERCY
New author..? Not quite, no Max Conner is in fact…
Neil Lancaster writing under the pseudonym Max Connor.
As Lancaster is well known for his DS Max Craigie series it makes sense to write a novel that doesn’t include the well known detective under a different name.
I was invited to read #NoMercy by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. And I am glad that I was.
As this story line was superb.
Conner continues down the action hero genre only with a twist, instead the main characters, are veterans would be consider as “geriatrics”.
Giving off Richard Osmon ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ vibes; in regards to the age of the main characters and the humour used.
This book is packed with a different sort of rollercoaster ride that is heart pounding, but still blood pumping like you’d expect from a novel by Lancaster.
Instead the characters are packed with Life experience.
This was a terrific start to a new series, and I can’t wait for the next instalment.
#MaxConner #NeilLancaster #pseudonym #NoMercy #actionthriller #geriatric #military #veterans #crimethriller #mystery #revenge
New author..? Not quite, no Max Conner is in fact…
Neil Lancaster writing under the pseudonym Max Connor.
As Lancaster is well known for his DS Max Craigie series it makes sense to write a novel that doesn’t include the well known detective under a different name.
I was invited to read #NoMercy by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. And I am glad that I was.
As this story line was superb.
Conner continues down the action hero genre only with a twist, instead the main characters, are veterans would be consider as “geriatrics”.
Giving off Richard Osmon ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ vibes; in regards to the age of the main characters and the humour used.
This book is packed with a different sort of rollercoaster ride that is heart pounding, but still blood pumping like you’d expect from a novel by Lancaster.
Instead the characters are packed with Life experience.
This was a terrific start to a new series, and I can’t wait for the next instalment.
#MaxConner #NeilLancaster #pseudonym #NoMercy #actionthriller #geriatric #military #veterans #crimethriller #mystery #revenge
May 21, 2025
Having previously read all Neil Lancaster’s Max Craigie series I wasn’t sure what to expect from this pseudonym of his. Well, I absolutely loved it. A great story that flowed throughout with much tension but also plenty of banter from the excellent characters. The story starts when Frank Chapman, a much decorated ex military man finds a burglar at his home, stealing his valuable medals. In the ensuing scuffle, ‘Chappers’ suffers a fatal injury. As his grieving daughter later meets up with his former comrades, a determination to recover the stolen medals is formed and an unlikely group begin their task. The five of them are all totally different but each has a unique skill set. The daughter, Josie is a feisty young lady, who doesn’t appreciate being belittled or patronised. She proves herself beyond doubt to the old soldiers and they begin their mission with renewed respect. An excellent story that had me totally hooked and if the rumours are true, I would love to meet some of them again in a future book.
May 29, 2025
No Mercy is the story of Josie who gets together with several of her father's old colleagues to retrieve his war medals after they are stolen and her father fatally injured in the attack. The police seem to be unable to trace who took them so the group stealthily trace who ordered the crime and where the medals are destined. The trail takes the group to Scotland where Josie proves herself every bit as reliable and competent as any of the ex soldiers. Together they break into the Scottish castle, a stronghold of a European villain and complete the mission.
The book is a fast paced, easy read, although the plot stretched the boundaries of normal activities rather far and I have to say I prefer the author writing as Neil Lancaster and love his DS Max Craigie books which I find far more realistic. Having said that, No Mercy is well written and easy to read with a satisfying outcome so there was nothing to dislike — I just hope there is more DS Craigie to come!
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
The book is a fast paced, easy read, although the plot stretched the boundaries of normal activities rather far and I have to say I prefer the author writing as Neil Lancaster and love his DS Max Craigie books which I find far more realistic. Having said that, No Mercy is well written and easy to read with a satisfying outcome so there was nothing to dislike — I just hope there is more DS Craigie to come!
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
June 11, 2025
I noted my calendar for the publication of “No Mercy” by Max Connor, a pseudonym for Neil Lancaster because I loved his series about Max Cragie and his page-turners. I enjoyed “No Mercy” but not as much as the Cragie series.
I know it was usual for those in the service to rag each other, but I thought there was a little too much in this story. As well, I appreciated the talents of the heroine, Josie Chapman, but I thought she was a little immature and disrespectful to the excellent veterans.
As usual with Mr Lancaster, the story was excellently written, the plot was fast-paced and wonderful, was well-researched, and the characters were believable. It was easy to love and barrack for the veterans, and their personalities were explained thoroughly. The ending was heartbreaking and wonderful, a perfect ending to a wonderful adventure.
I won’t describe the story as it has been described by more than one reviewer, but I would recommend this book as the start of a new series by an exceptional author.
I know it was usual for those in the service to rag each other, but I thought there was a little too much in this story. As well, I appreciated the talents of the heroine, Josie Chapman, but I thought she was a little immature and disrespectful to the excellent veterans.
As usual with Mr Lancaster, the story was excellently written, the plot was fast-paced and wonderful, was well-researched, and the characters were believable. It was easy to love and barrack for the veterans, and their personalities were explained thoroughly. The ending was heartbreaking and wonderful, a perfect ending to a wonderful adventure.
I won’t describe the story as it has been described by more than one reviewer, but I would recommend this book as the start of a new series by an exceptional author.
May 31, 2025
This is the first book in a new series by Neil Lancaster, writing as Max Connor. Unlike his previous books, this is not a police procedural book. The story centres around the daughter of a veteran and his four former colleagues, as they attempt to steal back the medals he had won.
This was a reasonably entertaining read but not as good as the police stories. I found the characters, at best, bland and there were times when they were a bit irritating. The character of Josie did not come across well. The pace felt a bit stop start. After a great beginning the action seemed to stall for a while until the drama of the conclusion. The writing style was different to the police books, it came across as slightly patronising at times.
Overall, this was entertaining but nothing special.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
This was a reasonably entertaining read but not as good as the police stories. I found the characters, at best, bland and there were times when they were a bit irritating. The character of Josie did not come across well. The pace felt a bit stop start. After a great beginning the action seemed to stall for a while until the drama of the conclusion. The writing style was different to the police books, it came across as slightly patronising at times.
Overall, this was entertaining but nothing special.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
June 23, 2025
New story , "old author" not in age but the pseudonym of Neil Lancaster. This isn't a police procedural though, but relates more to his time in the forces with references to the Falkland War. It tells the story about Josie whose father dies in an altercation when his war medals are stolen, which were to be a legacy to his daughter in order to keep her mum in a good care home as she has dementia. Her dad's old troop rally together to not only get the medals back but also find and deal with the source who is targeting these men and their medals. Never a dull moment as we head round the country on a voyage of retrieval. The only slightly annoying part of Josie, was her always picking up on her dad's friends referring to her a 'love' or 'lass' and her having a go at them instead of just embracing the fact that this older male generation spoke like this and it is fairly pointless to change their ways now !! Enjoyable read and overall 4.5*
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to review
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to review
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