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The Trigger Man #5
Shock Front
National security is under threat. It’s time to call the Trigger Man.
CIA operator Mark Pierce is the perfect weapon—skilled, focused, and unstoppable. His latest mission: extract a civilian, Roshini Jahandar, from India before some seriously bad people can get to her.
Roshini is considered a high-value asset because she is carrying half of a classified encryption device capable of unlocking America’s most closely guarded military secrets.
The bad guys know she has it and if they find her first the fallout will be catastrophic.
Pierce must help Roshini escape—and fast. Pursued by mercenaries, assassins, and her vengeful husband, he is forced to fight through danger at every turn.
Time is running out. The odds are stacked against him. But failure is not an option. Because this time, saving one life might mean saving millions.
Shock Front – the fifth in the stunning Trigger Man action thriller series. Perfect for fans of Vince Flynn, Brad Taylor and Rob Sinclair.
CIA operator Mark Pierce is the perfect weapon—skilled, focused, and unstoppable. His latest mission: extract a civilian, Roshini Jahandar, from India before some seriously bad people can get to her.
Roshini is considered a high-value asset because she is carrying half of a classified encryption device capable of unlocking America’s most closely guarded military secrets.
The bad guys know she has it and if they find her first the fallout will be catastrophic.
Pierce must help Roshini escape—and fast. Pursued by mercenaries, assassins, and her vengeful husband, he is forced to fight through danger at every turn.
Time is running out. The odds are stacked against him. But failure is not an option. Because this time, saving one life might mean saving millions.
Shock Front – the fifth in the stunning Trigger Man action thriller series. Perfect for fans of Vince Flynn, Brad Taylor and Rob Sinclair.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2025
466 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Aiden Bailey
19 books88 followersAiden Bailey is an international bestselling thriller author from Australia. Formerly an engineer, he built a career marketing multi-national technology, engineering, and construction companies. His various roles have included corporate communications with the Australian Submarine Corporation, technical writing for several defence contractors, engineering on an outback petroleum pipeline, a magazine editor and art director, and engineering proposal writer for the Royal Australian Air Force’s surveillance and intelligence gathering aircraft and drone enabling works. Aiden has travelled widely in six continents and his experiences are the basis of many of his stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 19, 2025
Heart-poundingly intense! Completely irresistible, it grabbed me right away and never let go.
Absolutely thrilling, but it’s the utter gut punch of a twist that truly got me. A dark, realistic and compelling story, that add to the enjoyment of the winding plot with its twists and turns.
The crazy inventiveness, vivid characters and enthralling action made this book hugely entertaining.The suspense is masterfully created, drawing the reader deep into a world of tension and vengeance. The protagonist's raw pursuit of justice is vivid and compelling, immersing you completely. This is nail-biting, hardcore entertainment delivered at breakneck speed.
Aiden Bailey has mastered the craft. A top-tier action-adventure writer at his peak.
Absolutely thrilling, but it’s the utter gut punch of a twist that truly got me. A dark, realistic and compelling story, that add to the enjoyment of the winding plot with its twists and turns.
The crazy inventiveness, vivid characters and enthralling action made this book hugely entertaining.The suspense is masterfully created, drawing the reader deep into a world of tension and vengeance. The protagonist's raw pursuit of justice is vivid and compelling, immersing you completely. This is nail-biting, hardcore entertainment delivered at breakneck speed.
Aiden Bailey has mastered the craft. A top-tier action-adventure writer at his peak.
January 6, 2025
I must admit that I am a little dissapointed, this book didn't last long enough in my opinion. Shock Front is the fifth adventure with the Trigger Man by Aiden Bailey and it is a wild ride. Filled with some great action and wonderful and some not so wonderful characters. I really like this series and now I keep thinking about what will happen next with Mark Pierce. For those out there who still haven't tried this author I can only say you need to. I must thank Inkubator Books and Netgalley for supplying me with this advnce copy of a great thriller.
January 4, 2025
I received this book from the author (Aiden Bailey), the publisher (Inkubator Books), and BookSprout in return for an honest review.
This is the fifth book in the Trigger Man action thriller series by Australian author Aiden Bailey. I have been fortunate enough to have been able to read the previous four books in this series thus far. Since I have been blessed so far as I found this book well written and hard to put down. In my opinion, Shock Front by Aiden Bailey is a spectacular sequel to a badass action series by Aiden Bailey.
The premise of this story that Mark Pierce, deemed by some in his chain of command to be roguish ("marches to his own drum") is a CIA agent with a strict moral code - only targeting individuals that deserve to die - is on a return trip from another mission in Africa when he is tasked to provide support for another CIA team on a deadly extraction mission for a Pakistani lawyer, Roshini Jahinder, who is planning to defect in the country of India.
Jahinder, a Pakistani national, is married to Fawad Sahir (who is the assistant director of FIA’s Technical Wing (the FIA is otherwise known as the Federal Investigation Agency which is a border control, criminal investigation, counter-intelligence and security agency under the control of the Interior Secretary of Pakistan) - a fact that he had held from her when they first met in London). Now, she is running for her life with Pierce in tow.
Jahinder's extraction from India has been expedited due to the fact that she has a 128 GB flash drive of electronic files that she found in her husband's home office (detailing some of his interactions with ISIS-K, Al-Qaeda and the Taliban). Her husband (Sahir) has managed to enact the defection of a DARPA engineer, Nigel McMahon, who has in his possession of one of America’s most guarded technical secrets (that being the composition of the propulsion systems – specifically the propellers) of America’s “Boomer” submarines).
After a series of armed confrontations with the pursuing FIA, first at the CIA safe house and then while in transit, the numbers in pursuit are reduced substantially (from fourteen to three)
Pierce shows his roguish streak when he communicates with his immediate supervisor, Mitch Hawley, concerning his extraction point (a place 500 miles away from his current location).
CIA operator Mark Pierce is the perfect weapon—skilled, focused, and unstoppable. His latest mission: extract a civilian, Roshini Jahandar, from India before some seriously bad people can get to her.
Roshini is considered a high-value asset because she is carrying half of a classified encryption device - a Carried Interlocked Encryption Device (aka CIED) capable of unlocking America’s most closely guarded military secrets.
The bad guys know she has it and if they find her first the fallout will be catastrophic.
Pierce must help Roshini escape—and fast. Pursued by mercenaries, assassins, and her vengeful husband, he is forced to fight through danger at every turn.
Time is running out. The odds are stacked against him. But failure is not an option. Because this time, saving one life might mean saving millions.
A casual glimpse at this book may provide the reader with the idea that the story is unoriginal and stereotypical as it appears to be a two-dimensional good guy committing unadulterated acts of violence. It is upon closer inspection that the more serious reader will draw comparisons with authors such as Jason Kasper, Mark Greaney and Vince Flynn.
Bailey masterfully blends tactical action with grand set-pieces that remind you a bit of Cussler’s Sahara mixed with modern day emphasis on technical accuracy. From bullet-ridden car chases involving AK-47 drive-by style-shootings to cinematic battles in moving trucks, there’s a barrage of high-caliber action sequences to get your blood pumping and your energy levels higher than the clouds. It works so much better though because Bailey wisely invests in building up the characters behind the weapons to be quite life-like while still having the aspirational qualities of good men and women stuck in bad situations. The believability of characters doesn’t leave room for any distractions to ruin your reading experience. Pierce himself is an enigmatic character with origins unknown and his warrior-persona more human and vulnerable than one imagines in an action-heavy read. Not only does this make Pierce someone to resonate with, it makes for a compelling intrigue around his background which is bound to be explored bit by bit in the sequels.
If you’re a fan of The Gray Man, then get ready to love The Trigger Man. Intense action, a mysterious hero, and twists after twists centered around a grim conspiracy will keep you enticed for what’s to follow, which I can assure you, is greatness.
Bailey masterfully blends tactical action with grand set pieces that remind you a bit of Cussler’s Sahara mixed with a modern-day emphasis on technical accuracy. From bullet-ridden car chases involving AK-47 drive-by style shootings to cinematic battles in moving trucks, there’s a barrage of high-caliber action sequences to get your blood pumping and your energy levels higher than the clouds. It works so much better though because Bailey wisely invests in building up the characters behind the weapons to be quite life-like while still having the aspirational qualities of good men and women stuck in bad situations. The believability of characters doesn’t leave room for any distractions to ruin your reading experience. Pierce himself is an enigmatic character with origins unknown and his warrior persona more human and vulnerable than one imagines in an action-heavy read. Not only does this make Pierce someone to resonate with, it also makes for a compelling intrigue around his background which is bound to be explored bit by bit in the sequels.
If you’re a fan of The Gray Man, then get ready to love The Trigger Man. Intense action, mysterious hero, and twist after twists centered around a grim conspiracy will keep you enticed for what’s to follow, which I can assure you, is greatness.
Shock Front – the fifth in the stunning Trigger Man action thriller series. Perfect for fans of Vince Flynn, Brad Taylor, and Rob Sinclair.
This story is a brilliant read that keeps one turning the pages. It would definitely be enjoyed by action fans. As such, I would give this story a solid four stars out of five. It definitely ends in quite the cliffhanger, as the antagonists are in the position to skew the protagonist's worldview.
As with most of my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the fifth book in the Trigger Man action thriller series by Australian author Aiden Bailey. I have been fortunate enough to have been able to read the previous four books in this series thus far. Since I have been blessed so far as I found this book well written and hard to put down. In my opinion, Shock Front by Aiden Bailey is a spectacular sequel to a badass action series by Aiden Bailey.
The premise of this story that Mark Pierce, deemed by some in his chain of command to be roguish ("marches to his own drum") is a CIA agent with a strict moral code - only targeting individuals that deserve to die - is on a return trip from another mission in Africa when he is tasked to provide support for another CIA team on a deadly extraction mission for a Pakistani lawyer, Roshini Jahinder, who is planning to defect in the country of India.
Jahinder, a Pakistani national, is married to Fawad Sahir (who is the assistant director of FIA’s Technical Wing (the FIA is otherwise known as the Federal Investigation Agency which is a border control, criminal investigation, counter-intelligence and security agency under the control of the Interior Secretary of Pakistan) - a fact that he had held from her when they first met in London). Now, she is running for her life with Pierce in tow.
Jahinder's extraction from India has been expedited due to the fact that she has a 128 GB flash drive of electronic files that she found in her husband's home office (detailing some of his interactions with ISIS-K, Al-Qaeda and the Taliban). Her husband (Sahir) has managed to enact the defection of a DARPA engineer, Nigel McMahon, who has in his possession of one of America’s most guarded technical secrets (that being the composition of the propulsion systems – specifically the propellers) of America’s “Boomer” submarines).
After a series of armed confrontations with the pursuing FIA, first at the CIA safe house and then while in transit, the numbers in pursuit are reduced substantially (from fourteen to three)
Pierce shows his roguish streak when he communicates with his immediate supervisor, Mitch Hawley, concerning his extraction point (a place 500 miles away from his current location).
CIA operator Mark Pierce is the perfect weapon—skilled, focused, and unstoppable. His latest mission: extract a civilian, Roshini Jahandar, from India before some seriously bad people can get to her.
Roshini is considered a high-value asset because she is carrying half of a classified encryption device - a Carried Interlocked Encryption Device (aka CIED) capable of unlocking America’s most closely guarded military secrets.
The bad guys know she has it and if they find her first the fallout will be catastrophic.
Pierce must help Roshini escape—and fast. Pursued by mercenaries, assassins, and her vengeful husband, he is forced to fight through danger at every turn.
Time is running out. The odds are stacked against him. But failure is not an option. Because this time, saving one life might mean saving millions.
A casual glimpse at this book may provide the reader with the idea that the story is unoriginal and stereotypical as it appears to be a two-dimensional good guy committing unadulterated acts of violence. It is upon closer inspection that the more serious reader will draw comparisons with authors such as Jason Kasper, Mark Greaney and Vince Flynn.
Bailey masterfully blends tactical action with grand set-pieces that remind you a bit of Cussler’s Sahara mixed with modern day emphasis on technical accuracy. From bullet-ridden car chases involving AK-47 drive-by style-shootings to cinematic battles in moving trucks, there’s a barrage of high-caliber action sequences to get your blood pumping and your energy levels higher than the clouds. It works so much better though because Bailey wisely invests in building up the characters behind the weapons to be quite life-like while still having the aspirational qualities of good men and women stuck in bad situations. The believability of characters doesn’t leave room for any distractions to ruin your reading experience. Pierce himself is an enigmatic character with origins unknown and his warrior-persona more human and vulnerable than one imagines in an action-heavy read. Not only does this make Pierce someone to resonate with, it makes for a compelling intrigue around his background which is bound to be explored bit by bit in the sequels.
If you’re a fan of The Gray Man, then get ready to love The Trigger Man. Intense action, a mysterious hero, and twists after twists centered around a grim conspiracy will keep you enticed for what’s to follow, which I can assure you, is greatness.
Bailey masterfully blends tactical action with grand set pieces that remind you a bit of Cussler’s Sahara mixed with a modern-day emphasis on technical accuracy. From bullet-ridden car chases involving AK-47 drive-by style shootings to cinematic battles in moving trucks, there’s a barrage of high-caliber action sequences to get your blood pumping and your energy levels higher than the clouds. It works so much better though because Bailey wisely invests in building up the characters behind the weapons to be quite life-like while still having the aspirational qualities of good men and women stuck in bad situations. The believability of characters doesn’t leave room for any distractions to ruin your reading experience. Pierce himself is an enigmatic character with origins unknown and his warrior persona more human and vulnerable than one imagines in an action-heavy read. Not only does this make Pierce someone to resonate with, it also makes for a compelling intrigue around his background which is bound to be explored bit by bit in the sequels.
If you’re a fan of The Gray Man, then get ready to love The Trigger Man. Intense action, mysterious hero, and twist after twists centered around a grim conspiracy will keep you enticed for what’s to follow, which I can assure you, is greatness.
Shock Front – the fifth in the stunning Trigger Man action thriller series. Perfect for fans of Vince Flynn, Brad Taylor, and Rob Sinclair.
This story is a brilliant read that keeps one turning the pages. It would definitely be enjoyed by action fans. As such, I would give this story a solid four stars out of five. It definitely ends in quite the cliffhanger, as the antagonists are in the position to skew the protagonist's worldview.
As with most of my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
Hey Guys Hope you’ll doing well and having a great new year. Today I like to talk about the novel Shock Front by Aiden Bailey fifth novel in the Trigger man series. Before that I want to thank Aiden Bailey for sending me the ARC of this novel.
When the CIA deniable asset Mark Pierce aka Trigger Man was routed to Patna India for the time sensitive extraction of an asset who has access to device that control top secret military intelligence, he didn’t expect to get on run from the get go. After escaping from the safehouse with the asset in tow the race was on for Trigger Man to extract the asset in the given time with limited resources due to time sensitivity. Meanwhile Rachel Zang was investigating about a PMC stumble upon an explosive secret that may lead to death of an innocent family on the opposite side of Earth. How these threads interconnect and whether Pierce finish the mission or forms the rest of the story.
The author clearly inculcate the chaotic nature of the India in this story well from developing terrific action pieces to clearly explaining the dark underbelly of my country. I really like the way Pierce bonds with the asset Roshini and it’s actually showing the compassionate side of the Assassin in a depth and it's very organic to read. Once the Trigger Man got asset with him the action was non stop and the whole chase spans a wide area and the way Mark uses the surroundings to dodge his enemies were delight to read. Parallelly Rachel faces a very dynamic issue who actually battles her own emotional demons of her life. More than the action and introduction of slew of characters whom I expect to make a comeback in the future novels this book clearly delves into the emotional turmoil these Elite agents gone through the missions and how it slowly destroys their soul was beautifully shown. So, if you haven’t read this series please go and check it fellas.
Once again thanks for the ARC, Aiden and hope in the near future Mark will create chaos in the Southern Part of India also. For the guys who’ve read so far thanks for giving your time and please try this series and tell me if you’ve any issues regarding my review. Thank you and have a nice day.
When the CIA deniable asset Mark Pierce aka Trigger Man was routed to Patna India for the time sensitive extraction of an asset who has access to device that control top secret military intelligence, he didn’t expect to get on run from the get go. After escaping from the safehouse with the asset in tow the race was on for Trigger Man to extract the asset in the given time with limited resources due to time sensitivity. Meanwhile Rachel Zang was investigating about a PMC stumble upon an explosive secret that may lead to death of an innocent family on the opposite side of Earth. How these threads interconnect and whether Pierce finish the mission or forms the rest of the story.
The author clearly inculcate the chaotic nature of the India in this story well from developing terrific action pieces to clearly explaining the dark underbelly of my country. I really like the way Pierce bonds with the asset Roshini and it’s actually showing the compassionate side of the Assassin in a depth and it's very organic to read. Once the Trigger Man got asset with him the action was non stop and the whole chase spans a wide area and the way Mark uses the surroundings to dodge his enemies were delight to read. Parallelly Rachel faces a very dynamic issue who actually battles her own emotional demons of her life. More than the action and introduction of slew of characters whom I expect to make a comeback in the future novels this book clearly delves into the emotional turmoil these Elite agents gone through the missions and how it slowly destroys their soul was beautifully shown. So, if you haven’t read this series please go and check it fellas.
Once again thanks for the ARC, Aiden and hope in the near future Mark will create chaos in the Southern Part of India also. For the guys who’ve read so far thanks for giving your time and please try this series and tell me if you’ve any issues regarding my review. Thank you and have a nice day.
February 1, 2025
I read this book as a free Review copy from NetGalley and this is my review based on my completing the book and is my honest feedback of the story.
I have become something of a fan of Aiden's series. This is the fifth entry in the series and is the third book that I have read.
This is a electrifying thriller that combines fast-paced action, intricate plotting, and complex character dynamics to deliver a compelling experience from the moment you pick up the book. Mark Pierce, a CIA operator with conscience and Trigger Man is thrust into another high-stakes mission that could alter the balance of global power and this time the enemies are not just out there but within too. The task is simple extract a lady, lawyer by qualification and married to someone high up in the Pakistan counter-intelligence network and one who is now cooped up in India with a vital secret and bring her back safely into the US.
The extraction is everything but simple as the Pakistani officer brings out the big guns to prevent his wife from leaving the country dead or alive. The chase across the width of India is a continuous battle with non-sop action. On the other side situations flare in Russia and also back home in the US with the different pieces slowly coming together.
The action in Shock Front is thrilling, with well-paced sequences that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Pierce is as sharp and relentless as ever, but this time, we get more insight into his personal struggles and getting to know the character a bit more including his past activities.
The story shows the dark side of espionage as people get turned and motives are not always above level. Heroes slowly turn into villains and dark motivation makes a person react like never before.
Amidst the carnage Mark stands out with other members of his team who put honor before a lot of things and strive to get things done.
A word of praise for Aiden who has got many things right (although Ubers are still not available in Goa) when writing about the India sojourn, not many authors get it correct despite research.
The series has started growing on me and I expect other readers to enjoy it as well.
I have become something of a fan of Aiden's series. This is the fifth entry in the series and is the third book that I have read.
This is a electrifying thriller that combines fast-paced action, intricate plotting, and complex character dynamics to deliver a compelling experience from the moment you pick up the book. Mark Pierce, a CIA operator with conscience and Trigger Man is thrust into another high-stakes mission that could alter the balance of global power and this time the enemies are not just out there but within too. The task is simple extract a lady, lawyer by qualification and married to someone high up in the Pakistan counter-intelligence network and one who is now cooped up in India with a vital secret and bring her back safely into the US.
The extraction is everything but simple as the Pakistani officer brings out the big guns to prevent his wife from leaving the country dead or alive. The chase across the width of India is a continuous battle with non-sop action. On the other side situations flare in Russia and also back home in the US with the different pieces slowly coming together.
The action in Shock Front is thrilling, with well-paced sequences that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Pierce is as sharp and relentless as ever, but this time, we get more insight into his personal struggles and getting to know the character a bit more including his past activities.
The story shows the dark side of espionage as people get turned and motives are not always above level. Heroes slowly turn into villains and dark motivation makes a person react like never before.
Amidst the carnage Mark stands out with other members of his team who put honor before a lot of things and strive to get things done.
A word of praise for Aiden who has got many things right (although Ubers are still not available in Goa) when writing about the India sojourn, not many authors get it correct despite research.
The series has started growing on me and I expect other readers to enjoy it as well.
January 15, 2025
I received an ARC through "Booksprout" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Pierce receiving a call to help another team and their protectee. When Pierce arrives at the location, the safe house is under siege. Pierce is able to subdue the attackers and once he gets into the house, he talks with the leader who was shot and is dying. She provides him with information and who then dies. Pierce then tells the protectee that they need to leave in 5 minutes. It seems that the protectee is the wife of a Pakastani Intelligence organization and she has evidence to provide to the CIA once she in the U.S.
Pierce heads out and discovers that they are being followed so he takes evasive steps. He winds up in a gun battle while they are fleeing. The two make their escape, but Pierce once more becomes aware that they are being followed. Pierce later learns that there is more than what he was told and it was explained to him the importance of getting the protectee to the extraction point.
Read along and discover what the main reason for them being followed, what steps Pierce took in keeping the protectee safe and what happened once he left the protectee at the evacuation point.
The action that followed from this point on is quite intense. Discover what events Pierce ran into as he attempted to finish the mission.
Definitely a story worth reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story begins with Pierce receiving a call to help another team and their protectee. When Pierce arrives at the location, the safe house is under siege. Pierce is able to subdue the attackers and once he gets into the house, he talks with the leader who was shot and is dying. She provides him with information and who then dies. Pierce then tells the protectee that they need to leave in 5 minutes. It seems that the protectee is the wife of a Pakastani Intelligence organization and she has evidence to provide to the CIA once she in the U.S.
Pierce heads out and discovers that they are being followed so he takes evasive steps. He winds up in a gun battle while they are fleeing. The two make their escape, but Pierce once more becomes aware that they are being followed. Pierce later learns that there is more than what he was told and it was explained to him the importance of getting the protectee to the extraction point.
Read along and discover what the main reason for them being followed, what steps Pierce took in keeping the protectee safe and what happened once he left the protectee at the evacuation point.
The action that followed from this point on is quite intense. Discover what events Pierce ran into as he attempted to finish the mission.
Definitely a story worth reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2025
Disclaimer: I'm reading this series out of order. I bought the first three volumes which sat on the shelf, and started off previewing Warlord Actual (#4), going back to read Trigger Man (#1), and then previewing this one (#5). With that in mind...
In this edition, maybe more than the ones I've read so far, Pierce is seemingly able to get out of numerous death-defying scenarios just as if it was another day at the office. To say this cat has nine lives is an under-exaggeration - if that term isn't real, it should be in his case.
There are plenty of bad guys to root against, lots of action to keep you at the edge of your seat, and a partner that shows the Trigger Man can't always get the job done by himself. What stumps me a bit in this one is the matter-of-fact expectation by his boss and everyone else that he'll always pull things off - no matter how dire the scenario. Also, we know who the bad guys are from the get go, so there's no real big surprises to reveal other than how long it will take Pierce to get the job done.
With that said, this was a solid entry in the series. I'm already working on book #2 (Deep Cover) to get caught up on more of The Trigger Man's backstory, so my nitpicks in Shock Front aren't keeping me from checking out whatever comes before (and next).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this edition, maybe more than the ones I've read so far, Pierce is seemingly able to get out of numerous death-defying scenarios just as if it was another day at the office. To say this cat has nine lives is an under-exaggeration - if that term isn't real, it should be in his case.
There are plenty of bad guys to root against, lots of action to keep you at the edge of your seat, and a partner that shows the Trigger Man can't always get the job done by himself. What stumps me a bit in this one is the matter-of-fact expectation by his boss and everyone else that he'll always pull things off - no matter how dire the scenario. Also, we know who the bad guys are from the get go, so there's no real big surprises to reveal other than how long it will take Pierce to get the job done.
With that said, this was a solid entry in the series. I'm already working on book #2 (Deep Cover) to get caught up on more of The Trigger Man's backstory, so my nitpicks in Shock Front aren't keeping me from checking out whatever comes before (and next).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2025
Mark Pierce is a CIA agent with a conscious, he will no longer follow orders blindly. He'll ask tough questions to himself and others rather than be blindly obedient. Which obviously the chain of command don't exactly relish.
He's asked to assist in the extraction of a lawyer from Pakistan who wants to defect to India. Married to someone high up in the counter intelligence structure, she is a prized acquisition. Roshini's husband has been playing with some very unsavoury characters and he's managed to turn a DARPA scientist and she has the proof in her possession.
Mark really is a great character. He's intelligent, loyal, skilled and seems to power through on sheer determination. He doesn't know the meaning of the word quit. Roshini is a wonderful foil to Mark; she loved her husband but when she learned the truth he was hiding, all her dreams turned to ash and she can no longer stomach him.
There are wonderfully technical and character driven scenes interspersed with full-on, action scenes. Mark is still such an enigma though - the little snippets of his previous life (and identity) are still so fragmented, we really still know next to nothing about him.
Now to await the next adventure.
He's asked to assist in the extraction of a lawyer from Pakistan who wants to defect to India. Married to someone high up in the counter intelligence structure, she is a prized acquisition. Roshini's husband has been playing with some very unsavoury characters and he's managed to turn a DARPA scientist and she has the proof in her possession.
Mark really is a great character. He's intelligent, loyal, skilled and seems to power through on sheer determination. He doesn't know the meaning of the word quit. Roshini is a wonderful foil to Mark; she loved her husband but when she learned the truth he was hiding, all her dreams turned to ash and she can no longer stomach him.
There are wonderfully technical and character driven scenes interspersed with full-on, action scenes. Mark is still such an enigma though - the little snippets of his previous life (and identity) are still so fragmented, we really still know next to nothing about him.
Now to await the next adventure.
January 5, 2025
Pierce is sent to rescue Roshini as she has a sensitive data stich she stole from her husband Fawad who was going to sell to the Russians ,and get her back to the US for protection .
Roshini is kidnapped by another interested party Black Dog Karson who has the other part of the device.
Pierce and Racheal are working together but are both captured and taken to a island that Karson owns and Roshini is there also.
Pierce has to give Karson the location of where Nigel Mahon is being held as he alone can activate the devices for the sensitive information .
They are left on the island at the mercy of Komodo Dragons !
The end is explosive with loss of life of Pierce's team .
Pierce's boss Ibrahim offers him to work with a team and answer to him only, and a good introduction to the next read .
A great read as always and just put Cliff notes as i don't want to spoil your read .
I read this twice as there is soo much to take in and find i miss parts as i am eager to find out what happens .
I received this book as part of Advanced reader group and hope you enjoy as much as myself .
Thank you Mr Bailey .
Roshini is kidnapped by another interested party Black Dog Karson who has the other part of the device.
Pierce and Racheal are working together but are both captured and taken to a island that Karson owns and Roshini is there also.
Pierce has to give Karson the location of where Nigel Mahon is being held as he alone can activate the devices for the sensitive information .
They are left on the island at the mercy of Komodo Dragons !
The end is explosive with loss of life of Pierce's team .
Pierce's boss Ibrahim offers him to work with a team and answer to him only, and a good introduction to the next read .
A great read as always and just put Cliff notes as i don't want to spoil your read .
I read this twice as there is soo much to take in and find i miss parts as i am eager to find out what happens .
I received this book as part of Advanced reader group and hope you enjoy as much as myself .
Thank you Mr Bailey .
January 19, 2025
If you are not yet a fan of The Trigger Man series by Aiden Bailey, you will be after reading Shock Front, his BEST book ever!! His characters, new and familiar, are so well developed that you believe they exist somewhere in this world! And in each book of this series, Bailey’s well-honed imagination creates the scariest human villains! There’s definitely one in Shock Front you’d prefer to never ever meet.
You will travel through dicey parts of India during monsoon season, travel in fast moving cars where driver and passenger survive armed pursuit and zinging bullets, pile-ups on bridges, and crashes into waters below. You will be stuck for long days and nights in a safe house in Sochi Russia awaiting safe submarine transport to the USA … or capture and torture. You’ll accompany Trigger Man to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches in Goa, and to the Hindu Kush, Pakistan where Pierce and Zang fight not just one enemy but two for their literal lives.
And all of that, is not nearly all Bailey gives his readers. Hold tight - you’re in for a wild ride other authors can’t seem to give you!
You will travel through dicey parts of India during monsoon season, travel in fast moving cars where driver and passenger survive armed pursuit and zinging bullets, pile-ups on bridges, and crashes into waters below. You will be stuck for long days and nights in a safe house in Sochi Russia awaiting safe submarine transport to the USA … or capture and torture. You’ll accompany Trigger Man to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches in Goa, and to the Hindu Kush, Pakistan where Pierce and Zang fight not just one enemy but two for their literal lives.
And all of that, is not nearly all Bailey gives his readers. Hold tight - you’re in for a wild ride other authors can’t seem to give you!
January 17, 2025
This is a great series and I loved this latest addition. Mark doesn't have Mackenzie anymore and is relying on a new guy Hawley for his operational needs which isn't helping him so much in his latest mission. It begins as usual with a bang where he finds himself escaping from an attack as he is trying to extract the wife of a senior intelligence chief from a location in India. She is also holding some key data which many interested parties want.
There are a lot of really bad characters in this and it was great. The main guy is particularly nasty and without giving anything away, the scenes on his island are incredible and particularly jaw-dropping (at least for me). I found it quite difficult to read certain parts at that time. It was great to see Pierce work with Zang again and I look forward to seeing what lies in store next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are a lot of really bad characters in this and it was great. The main guy is particularly nasty and without giving anything away, the scenes on his island are incredible and particularly jaw-dropping (at least for me). I found it quite difficult to read certain parts at that time. It was great to see Pierce work with Zang again and I look forward to seeing what lies in store next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2025
One of the rare stories set in India, where a CIA operator is tasked with the task of rescuing an Indian woman and ex-filling her to the USA. She has some vital facts and evidence that carry a greater conspiracy. Her husband, she discovers, is a special operator with Pakistan Intelligence and she has recorded his conversation and carries some evidence indicating a grand plan for an exorbitant ransom demand. The first half of the book weaves through the Northern parts of India right from Patna to Kolkata in an Indian-made Maruti Gypsy. The mystery slowly unravels as the author builds up the suspense layer by layer. The plot has a lot of fancy technical gadgets and takes you on an imaginative trip into the Hindu Kush mountain and Komodo dragons being used as a first line of defence. It's an excellent yarn to spend the weekend with a good plot travelling all over.
Thank you for providing this book for review via Booksprout. All opinions are my own.
Thank you for providing this book for review via Booksprout. All opinions are my own.
January 20, 2025
I was anxious after the explosive ending to the last novel, worried about how Mackenzie was dealing with her injuries and if Pierce was going to be glowing in the dark. Sadly, Mark doesn't have Summerfield as his handler any longer. He's now stuck with an opportunistic political hack. It's irritating having to deal with such an incompetent moron, especially when Pierce is now working directly for the special activities director. We get to see a trusted friend return, Rachel Zang, assisting in recovering the schematics for a submarine propulsion system used on a sub attempting to smuggle a family out of Russia. A complex mission ranging from India to Indonesia with the lives of a Russian family and two agents sent to rescue them, hanging in the balance. Add a psychotic mercenary with a sick fascination for watching Komodo dragons eating people alive and his private army, and Pierce can use all the help he can get. I can't stand the new handler, but I have great hopes for the new boss, Abdul Ibrahim. These books are getting better with each new novel, Bailey has a good feel for his character and knows precisely where he is taking the story. I love the breadcrumbs he leaves for us about Pierce's mysterious past, I can't wait to see how it will all shake out.
January 6, 2025
This is a book that just grabbed my interest and attention right from the start and held it right to the last page. The story is fast paced and full of action, thrills and suspense. The authors writing is good, the story flows well, and its great to see Pierce and Zang working together again. There are lots of story threads here, I think the plot line is very intricately thought out and multi layered. I like the story being told through different characters, some I loathed and others I really liked and can't wait to see more of them in the future. The last quarter of the book is a very tense and atmospheric read that races to an ending that I liked and one that gives good closure and sets up the next book nicely. I'll definitely want to read the next book in this series and would recommend Shock Front if you like books with CIA/terrorism themes. If you're new to Aiden Bailey as an author I'd suggest you read the series in order to get to know the characters and their backgrounds right from the start.
4 stars
4 stars
January 15, 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books in this series, but this one seems to go a step further. Get more insights into how our characters think so get to know them better. Definitely worth reading. As usual the Author takes you straight into action from the first page and if you want an action book than this is the way to go. Twists, turns, backstabbing, treachery, fights and working out how to get out of precarious situations. This book is just so busy as so much going on as never a dull moment. The writer knows his stuff. Suspense and drama. It ended well in the respect if it goes along as the story has ended than the next book is going to be well worth reading. Can't wait.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2025
Absolutely great!
I have read every book in this outstanding series. This may well be the best book in the series.
It has a great plot, which is simple, but well-researched and believable. The action is tremendous as always. This series has always featured exciting action with a Mission Impossible/James Bond type vibe to it, hard to believe that the protagonist can survive, yet he does.
The characters, both new and existing ones, were well portrayed.
In summary, this is a great espionage thriller, with tremendous action, a really good plot, interesting and well developed characters, and also some really interesting and exotic locales. A great read from start to finish in every way possible, highly recommended.
I have read every book in this outstanding series. This may well be the best book in the series.
It has a great plot, which is simple, but well-researched and believable. The action is tremendous as always. This series has always featured exciting action with a Mission Impossible/James Bond type vibe to it, hard to believe that the protagonist can survive, yet he does.
The characters, both new and existing ones, were well portrayed.
In summary, this is a great espionage thriller, with tremendous action, a really good plot, interesting and well developed characters, and also some really interesting and exotic locales. A great read from start to finish in every way possible, highly recommended.
January 17, 2025
Wow! This book was a pleasure to read. Author Aiden Bailey has created a near-perfect thriller novel. Shock Front captivates your attention from the first paragraph. There is so much detail in the places and "tools" the characters use, right down to the model number of the weapons. The characters are also magnificently well-developed. The book reads a lot like Tom Clancy - you almost need a pad of paper to keep track of the characters' names and their locations throughout the book. Attention to detail! A book well written!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. Mark Pierce is a legend, and not a man to be messed with. He has crazy skills which the CIA have often used to it’s advantage, quite simply he gets the job done. His latest task in India is certainly going to test his skills, it’s not always easy trying to keep someone safe, while there are so many set on killing you. Pierce is pushed to his limits in this latest book in this wonderful series. I’ve read every story and can’t rave enough about how good they are. Do yourself a favour and give this book and the rest of the series a read, you won’t be disappointed. 5/5 Star rating.
February 6, 2025
This book just didn't work for me. I usually enjoy this series but found this instalment annoying with the persistent, almost slapstick description of extremely violent action. I mean, how many ways can Mr. Bailey describe people dancing like "puppets on strings/crazy dolls, etc" when being repeatedly hit by automatic weapons fire? That's just one unnecessary cliche example that detracts from the story, "red mist" is another. There's plenty more I found annoying, but maybe I'm just being too critical, I did, however, manage to finish the story. Mr. Bailey has done much better in the past and hopefully will also do so in the future.
January 22, 2025
After reading the previous book I was excited for anther thrilling read. This one really didn’t grab me. Only about half of it really kept my attention. The ending however has me hopeful that the next book will once again be the exhilarating thriller I am used to. Also I just don’t understand the continued British terminology when the main Character is American. I mean it isn’t everywhere but enough to be annoying.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 5, 2025
Mark Pierce, a deadly CIA asset, is sent to retrieve an Indian woman who has a piece of deadly cryptology before she is eliminated and the technology is lost to enemies of the US. This is a fast-paced, action thriller with plenty of twists and turns along the way which engages the reader till the end. There were some unbelievable moments and some issues with vocabulary but it was still a decent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2025
Fast moving thriller.
A fast moving thriller that has trigger man on a mission to extract a person with a device holding information on the American Navy submarine propeller systems before it fell into the hands of criminals and traitors willing to sell to the highest bidder. The mission resulted in teaming up with Zang and between them after escaping from imprisonment and being eaten by Kimono dragons they neutralised the threat.
A fast moving thriller that has trigger man on a mission to extract a person with a device holding information on the American Navy submarine propeller systems before it fell into the hands of criminals and traitors willing to sell to the highest bidder. The mission resulted in teaming up with Zang and between them after escaping from imprisonment and being eaten by Kimono dragons they neutralised the threat.
January 10, 2025
Loved it. I was hooked by the internal politics, the different plots - Pakistan/ India and Russia, the treatment of veterans. Who knew submarine propulsion plans could be so sought after. Fast paced and action packed I was only disappointed to get to the end of the book. Looking forward to the next one already.
January 19, 2025
Intriguing action-packed series that doesn't disappoint it's readers. Mark Pierce aka Trigger Man is no stranger to trouble and is one of the first people to run directly into bullets flying if there's someone who needs rescuing or a wrong that needs to be set straight I never pictured myself to be drawn in by a book like this, but now I never want to miss a Trigger Man book.
February 9, 2025
Edge of your seat thriller. There are so many twists and turns in the story that it will keep you hooked until the end. Great lead characters that are strong but have some imperfections as well. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2025
Mark Pierce is asked to extract a civilian woman from India. Without his usual handler, things soon get very tight and he has to pull all his strength to be succesful. Another very good book in this series.
March 7, 2025
Absolutely horrid.
You made the main character the most inept and incapable CIA operators of all time! His name is Trigger Man, yet he can't shoot st all, doesn't know how to parachute, and he has a shaking condition?! Really?!
You made the main character the most inept and incapable CIA operators of all time! His name is Trigger Man, yet he can't shoot st all, doesn't know how to parachute, and he has a shaking condition?! Really?!
March 9, 2025
Trigger Man never disappoints!
This book is explosive and as relevant a thriller for today as I have read. Aiden Bailey continues to impress with his plots, twists, and turns. Enjoy!
This book is explosive and as relevant a thriller for today as I have read. Aiden Bailey continues to impress with his plots, twists, and turns. Enjoy!
April 4, 2025
I don't think that his code name reflects the operator as he seems to be far more objective in his outlook but I am reading the next iteration now and will reserve my opinion until then.
Meanwhile, they are a good read.
Meanwhile, they are a good read.
January 13, 2025
This book is a modern spy and action novel, with great characters and lots of action. It's entertaining, but the action is not believable and "Trigger Man" doesn't seem to hit much.
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