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Mitch Rapp #23
Capture or Kill
Mitch Rapp faces an Iranian foe bent on destabilizing the Middle East in this latest novel from Vince Flynn’s #1 New York Times bestselling series, now written by Don Bentley.
April 2011: On a remote mountaintop overlooking the remains of the Iranian nuclear weapons program, Azad Ashani witnesses the successful demonstration of a new weapons system meant to upend the American-led war in Afghanistan. Ashani, director of the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence and Security and Irene Kennedy’s former back channel to the Iranian government, recognizes the demonstration’s true significance, and the nation-ending conflict it will provoke. Alone, Ashani stands no chance of preventing this rush to madness.
But with the help of one man, he just might.
In Washington, DC, CIA director Irene Kennedy briefs the president that the operational window to kill or capture Osama bin Laden at his recently discovered compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan is rapidly closing. But before he’ll authorize a commando raid on Pakistani soil, the president demands irrefutable proof of bin Laden’s presence.
Proof he trusts just one man to provide.
April 2011: On a remote mountaintop overlooking the remains of the Iranian nuclear weapons program, Azad Ashani witnesses the successful demonstration of a new weapons system meant to upend the American-led war in Afghanistan. Ashani, director of the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence and Security and Irene Kennedy’s former back channel to the Iranian government, recognizes the demonstration’s true significance, and the nation-ending conflict it will provoke. Alone, Ashani stands no chance of preventing this rush to madness.
But with the help of one man, he just might.
In Washington, DC, CIA director Irene Kennedy briefs the president that the operational window to kill or capture Osama bin Laden at his recently discovered compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan is rapidly closing. But before he’ll authorize a commando raid on Pakistani soil, the president demands irrefutable proof of bin Laden’s presence.
Proof he trusts just one man to provide.
544 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 3, 2024
3442 people are currently reading
2523 people want to read
About the author
Don Bentley
11 books856 followersDon Bentley is the NYT bestselling author of FORGOTTEN WAR, Tom Clancy WEAPONS GRADE, and Vince Flynn's MITCH RAPP series (2024). Former FBI Special Agent and Army Apache pilot. Learn more at www.donbentleybooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 788 reviews
October 25, 2024
This was not the Mitch Rapp book I was expecting. I didn’t anticipate going back in time to 2011 to see Rapp help find and kill Osama bin Laden. I was expecting a present-day novel, as the Mitch Rapp books have typically done in the past. Additionally, I was hoping for a story that wasn’t centered around the Middle East; I wanted an Eastern European or American political thriller.
But that’s not all. The new author, Bentley, has taken over for Kyle Mills just as I felt Mills was finding his stride with the Rapp series. I knew what to expect from him, but now Bentley is at the helm. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy Bentley's writing style. I felt he was overly descriptive at times, with whole pages of exposition between dialogue that distracted from the conversation itself. Overall, it just didn’t resonate with me.
The only character who died in this book, Noreen, was introduced earlier on and had the potential for significant character development if her story had spanned a few books. Instead, she ended up feeling like just another throwaway character. I found the plot confusing at points; I struggled to follow Rapp's actions and how they related to the overall goal.
Honestly, this book could have been split into three separate novels, each with its own plot line. That approach would have allowed for a more fleshed-out story. For instance, I really liked the idea of Rapp as an undercover agent working with an Iranian colonel—how compelling does that sound? Yet, that plotline was abandoned about 40% in.
Bentley has a lot of work ahead of him to match the quality of Kyle Mills, let alone the great Vince Flynn. I expect more next time.
But that’s not all. The new author, Bentley, has taken over for Kyle Mills just as I felt Mills was finding his stride with the Rapp series. I knew what to expect from him, but now Bentley is at the helm. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy Bentley's writing style. I felt he was overly descriptive at times, with whole pages of exposition between dialogue that distracted from the conversation itself. Overall, it just didn’t resonate with me.
The only character who died in this book, Noreen, was introduced earlier on and had the potential for significant character development if her story had spanned a few books. Instead, she ended up feeling like just another throwaway character. I found the plot confusing at points; I struggled to follow Rapp's actions and how they related to the overall goal.
Honestly, this book could have been split into three separate novels, each with its own plot line. That approach would have allowed for a more fleshed-out story. For instance, I really liked the idea of Rapp as an undercover agent working with an Iranian colonel—how compelling does that sound? Yet, that plotline was abandoned about 40% in.
Bentley has a lot of work ahead of him to match the quality of Kyle Mills, let alone the great Vince Flynn. I expect more next time.
September 12, 2024
Best voice of the late, great Vince Flynn.
September 20, 2024
I have read all of the books about Mitch Rapp over the last 2 years and have really enjoyed the series. However, I feel this book took quite a turn from all the previous ones. I'm just was not a fan of the writing style of the new author and thought the book was about 100 pages too long because the non stop explaining the situation or "thoughts going through the characters head." I had many other reasons for not enjoying this book, I will just leave it there and guess I have come to an end with my friend.
September 14, 2024
Tough Read
The Mitch Rapp series is one of my favorites. However, this one read like a Tom Clancy novel. The detail of character introspection and thinking were so hard to GRT through, I almost couldn't finish the.book. Combine that with a lack of Mitch Rapp kicking ass and taking names it was tough read for me. I stopped reading Tom Clancy Because I could not get through the minutia and inner thinking and detail from and about the characters etc. Put Mitch Rapp back in a book that is action packed and moves quickly. Show me an old fashioned page turner again. This one was not.
The Mitch Rapp series is one of my favorites. However, this one read like a Tom Clancy novel. The detail of character introspection and thinking were so hard to GRT through, I almost couldn't finish the.book. Combine that with a lack of Mitch Rapp kicking ass and taking names it was tough read for me. I stopped reading Tom Clancy Because I could not get through the minutia and inner thinking and detail from and about the characters etc. Put Mitch Rapp back in a book that is action packed and moves quickly. Show me an old fashioned page turner again. This one was not.
September 3, 2024
Most people avoid change like it’s asking for help moving. Change sucks. It’s hard, can be scary, and usually not fun. Part of it is the fear of the unknown. Will my new boss turn out to be a dick? Will my new husband turn out to be a dick? Will this new author ruin my favorite series like a dick? All legitimate concerns—Don Bentley can’t help with the first two but does with the third.
Those acquainted with Señor Bentley knew Mitch Rapp was in good hands. Bentley’s first Rapp adventure focuses on the hunt for bin Laden and Iran’s involvement in Afghanistan. Capture or Kill showcases Bentley’s talent for creating memorable characters, visceral action, and an abundance of heart.
Capture or Kill is the Rapp we know and love from a fresh perspective. It’s crazy how Bentley can mirror Vince’s voice which Mills duplicated while being the same Rapp fans have come to expect. I’m uber excited to see what Bentley has in store and reading which author friends he drags next.
Thanks to the Vince Flynn estate, Atria/Emily Bestler Books, and Don Bentley for the Capture or Kill galley!
Those acquainted with Señor Bentley knew Mitch Rapp was in good hands. Bentley’s first Rapp adventure focuses on the hunt for bin Laden and Iran’s involvement in Afghanistan. Capture or Kill showcases Bentley’s talent for creating memorable characters, visceral action, and an abundance of heart.
Capture or Kill is the Rapp we know and love from a fresh perspective. It’s crazy how Bentley can mirror Vince’s voice which Mills duplicated while being the same Rapp fans have come to expect. I’m uber excited to see what Bentley has in store and reading which author friends he drags next.
Thanks to the Vince Flynn estate, Atria/Emily Bestler Books, and Don Bentley for the Capture or Kill galley!
September 8, 2024
I found this book to be a little more detailed and a little more difficult to read than other Rapp books. I enjoyed the overall story plot, just wish it was more story telling and less nitty gritty details.
September 6, 2024
Have you heard of Don Bentley? If not you are obviously not a fan of good thrillers. He used to ride around in Apache helicopters and after that worked at the FBI and did some S.W.A.T. team stuff. Then he got this idea that he was going to write books! He came up with this character named Matt Drake and it was a great success, then he was roped into the Tom Clancy universe. Now he has released his first Mitch Rapp story. Capture or Kill is the 23rd book in the Rappverse and in my opinion one of the best books in this series in a very long time, sorry Kyle. I have just like many more like me around the world followed Rapp in his fight against evil doers for many years now and sadly the inventor Vince Flynn was taken from us way to soon, but Mitch lives on, first through Kyle Mills capable hands and now Don has taken over. Boy did he hit it out of the park, what a great book. I was hooked from the first page and had a hard time putting the book aside to eat and sleep. I can't wait to see what's in store for the next one. I think it was brilliant going back in time with the story to get a younger Mitch. I must thank the good people at BTS design helping me get a copy of the book and as a proud ambassador I thank Don for coming up with this stuff.
October 17, 2024
I was very disappointed with this book. Stan Hurley is back ? Mike Nash is back ? Why ? progression and now we’re going back in time. When a friend of mine recommend that I read this series several years ago there were 13 books. I started right before Memorial Day and read till Labor Day. I could not get enough. I wanted to change my kid’s name to Mitch. A GREAT series. I guess there is a writing style, Vince Flynn was the BEST. Kyle Mills took some getting used to, this book didn’t seem like Mitch Rapp, Irene Kennedy & Scott Coleman. I don’t like to criticize other people but this book is not for me. It took over a month to read. I read other reviews and I think we all agree. When the next one comes out, I don’t know if I’ll buy it.
July 24, 2024
Capture or Kill takes us back to 2011, an earlier period in the Mitch Rapp series. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Middle East, the story revolves around an ongoing war and an intense manhunt. Mitch Rapp is called upon to intervene, tasked with fighting in the conflict, aiding in the manhunt, and preventing the outbreak of another war. It's a mission that seems impossible for one man, but Mitch Rapp is not just any man.
Don Bentley’s debut Mitch Rapp mission is a resounding success. Bentley skillfully weaves in older storylines, continuing Vince Flynn’s legacy, while also laying the groundwork for future developments by Kyle Mills.
As a longtime fan of Don Bentley, I was excited to see his take on Mitch Rapp. Bentley has proven his prowess with his own characters, like Matt Drake, and his work on the Jack Ryan Jr. series. Mitch Rapp, however, is a unique challenge, and Bentley rises to the occasion. In Capture or Kill, Bentley adeptly captures Rapp’s essence, distinguishing him from his other characters.
Bentley’s narrative is enriched with insightful commentary on the war, reminiscent of his other works like “Forgotten War”. He raises thought-provoking points, which could be seen as either his personal opinions or foreshadowing the eventual withdrawal from Afghanistan on August 30, 2021. Regardless, his approach is both well-executed and appreciated.
I wholeheartedly give this book 5 stars, and I would give Don Bentley 6 stars if I could. His ability to honor Vince Flynn’s legacy while making his own mark is truly commendable.
Don Bentley’s debut Mitch Rapp mission is a resounding success. Bentley skillfully weaves in older storylines, continuing Vince Flynn’s legacy, while also laying the groundwork for future developments by Kyle Mills.
As a longtime fan of Don Bentley, I was excited to see his take on Mitch Rapp. Bentley has proven his prowess with his own characters, like Matt Drake, and his work on the Jack Ryan Jr. series. Mitch Rapp, however, is a unique challenge, and Bentley rises to the occasion. In Capture or Kill, Bentley adeptly captures Rapp’s essence, distinguishing him from his other characters.
Bentley’s narrative is enriched with insightful commentary on the war, reminiscent of his other works like “Forgotten War”. He raises thought-provoking points, which could be seen as either his personal opinions or foreshadowing the eventual withdrawal from Afghanistan on August 30, 2021. Regardless, his approach is both well-executed and appreciated.
I wholeheartedly give this book 5 stars, and I would give Don Bentley 6 stars if I could. His ability to honor Vince Flynn’s legacy while making his own mark is truly commendable.
October 12, 2024
I hope Don Bentley will prove to be another fine successor to the Vince Flynn series. Kyle Mills made a flawless transition. Mr. Bentley, not so much. This was not an electrifying page turner for me. It got bogged down in minutiae and I started skimming- then skipping pages 😱.
At first, I didn’t like the idea that this installment would “go back in time”, but it was fine. The setting takes place in 2011.Stan Hurley is still alive and involved; it was a pleasant surprise to have his character resurrected. Tommy is a youth playing soccer. It really was delightful to reminisce and recapture the essence of an earlier period!
The pacing was a bit slow in places. I had to slow down reading due to all the characters involved. It was hard to follow all the threads at some points and became a bit confusing if not convoluted. Also, there was too much verbiage and technical descriptions of military apparatus and battle field jargon. The descriptive exposition slowed the pacing down and became boring to read. The overarching plot to capture or kill Osama Bin Laden was thrilling. A secondary plot of new surface to air missiles interfaced with the Bin Laden angle. But as stated, too many characters to keep straight and to distinguish between the two storylines
It didn’t have the heart pounding, edge of your seat vibe. It lacked the “Rapp pizazz” IMHO. Even so, I am looking forward to his next installment in a current setting!
At first, I didn’t like the idea that this installment would “go back in time”, but it was fine. The setting takes place in 2011.Stan Hurley is still alive and involved; it was a pleasant surprise to have his character resurrected. Tommy is a youth playing soccer. It really was delightful to reminisce and recapture the essence of an earlier period!
The pacing was a bit slow in places. I had to slow down reading due to all the characters involved. It was hard to follow all the threads at some points and became a bit confusing if not convoluted. Also, there was too much verbiage and technical descriptions of military apparatus and battle field jargon. The descriptive exposition slowed the pacing down and became boring to read. The overarching plot to capture or kill Osama Bin Laden was thrilling. A secondary plot of new surface to air missiles interfaced with the Bin Laden angle. But as stated, too many characters to keep straight and to distinguish between the two storylines
It didn’t have the heart pounding, edge of your seat vibe. It lacked the “Rapp pizazz” IMHO. Even so, I am looking forward to his next installment in a current setting!
September 3, 2024
I certainly do not say this about a lot of authors but Don Bentley’s writing is a stroke of genius! I really love the way he tells a story and how he brings you along with the masterpiece of dialogue, action, prose and story which is always top notch. Capture or Kill brings us back to a younger Mitch Rapp who is full of action, revenge, piss and vinegar! This is a non stop thrill ride that I thoroughly enjoyed. Don Bentley brings in his expertise and thoughts on Afghanistan that he so eloquently expressed in his book Forgotten War into this adventure. I really hope we see more Don Bentley and a younger Mitch Rapp in the future!!
September 18, 2025
I have read every Mitch Rapp book since the series started back in 2000. This one was not good. There is a new author, Don Bentley. First, I do not like his writing style: repetitive and overly descriptive. Second, is there not enough new material that he had to go back in time to at about 10 books prior. (I just read a description of the next Rapp book and it does the same thing--there is enough going on in the world to bring Rapp to current times). Third, he turns Rapp into a cartoon superhero, but this took place 10 books ago so how did the character change so much and then change for the next ten books. I could continue but I don't want to waste any more time. You get the idea. It took me 6 1/2 months to finish this book. I do read multiple books at a time, but I finished about 45 other books while slogging through this one. Not much of a thriller, huh.
July 19, 2024
First, I am so blessed to have an advance copy of this one. I love Vince Flynn and the Mitch Rapp universe. I took my time with this one in part because it is Don Bentleys first foray into Mitch Rapp’s world, and I have to say he did it seamlessly. Rapp is written well, and Vince would be proud.
This one takes place back in time and looks at Mitch’s role in the hunt for Osama bin Laden. I loved the Easter eggs plugged into the tale, and the nod to Bentleys time as a helicopter pilot. Bravo! More to say, but no spoilers at this time. Thanks to Atria for the early copy!
This one takes place back in time and looks at Mitch’s role in the hunt for Osama bin Laden. I loved the Easter eggs plugged into the tale, and the nod to Bentleys time as a helicopter pilot. Bravo! More to say, but no spoilers at this time. Thanks to Atria for the early copy!
December 19, 2024
I went into Capture or Kill by Don Bentley with high expectations, but unfortunately, I came away disappointed. One of my biggest frustrations was the way the book went back in time. I was frustrated with Bentleys decision to have this book take place in 2011.
Another issue was the sheer amount of detail Bentley included. While some readers might appreciate an abundance of description, I found it overwhelming and unnecessary. The over-explained scenes bogged down the story and took away from the action and suspense I was hoping for.
It felt as though Bentley was trying to add so much to the book to make the most of this opportunity, but I felt like it was way to much. This book could have easily been three different story’s, it seemed like he rushed thought story lines and did not finish them so he could jump to the next one.
He seemed to be really focused on bringing his audience over. What I mean by that is it felt like he kept recapping the story’s lines that we all ready know and love to catch up a new audience. To me it seemed like he was more interested in bringing in new fans to the Mitch Rapp world instead of pleasing those of us who all read love the series.
Overall, Capture or Kill didn’t live up to my expectations. While Don Bentley is clearly a talented writer, I was left wishing for a more streamlined and focused story. For fans of the series, this might still be worth a read, but for me, it missed the mark and has me worried we may never get another good Mitch Rapp story.
September 19, 2024
Mr. Bentley may not have been the right choice to take over for Kyle Mills
First, for some reason this book goes back in time to the Bin Laden raid. I do not like when series do this as it removes much drama. There are multiple characters that I know are in later chronological works. This means I know they survive whatever tight spots they get in.
Second, there was a bit too much inner monologue and explanation.
Hopefully his second work will return to current time and be a tighter narrative with less detailed reasoning for actions.
First, for some reason this book goes back in time to the Bin Laden raid. I do not like when series do this as it removes much drama. There are multiple characters that I know are in later chronological works. This means I know they survive whatever tight spots they get in.
Second, there was a bit too much inner monologue and explanation.
Hopefully his second work will return to current time and be a tighter narrative with less detailed reasoning for actions.
November 9, 2024
Mitch wasn't Mitch. Irene wasn't Irene. Hurley wasn't Hurley. Scott was almost Scott, but not quite.
The time hop was weird for many reasons, the biggest one being bringing Mike Nash back.
I'm a ride or die Mitch Rapp fan, but... ooof. Bentley has some serious work to do in the next one.
The time hop was weird for many reasons, the biggest one being bringing Mike Nash back.
I'm a ride or die Mitch Rapp fan, but... ooof. Bentley has some serious work to do in the next one.
September 6, 2024
In April of 2011 a Quds Force demonstration of a new missle system leads Azad Ashani, Director of Iran’s Minister of Intelligence to make a bold move to save his country. The system is meant to level the playing field in the United States’ war in the Middle East. Knowing the United States will level Iran when they learn what they have provided to its enemies, Ashani reaches out through back channels to Irene Kennedy. Kennedy calls on Mitch Rapp to handle the situation. As this is going on, Irene is planning to take out the most famous terrorist in the world, Osama Bin Laden. The president won’t sign off until they have proof that Bin Laden is in Pakistan. This leads to Mitch taking on dual responsibilities and racing against the clock to stop the missiles and confirm Bin Laden’s location.
The people making the decisions on who to continue Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp series are on point again. First it was Kyle Mills who honored the Rapp character while taking it to new levels. Now it is Don Bentley who has hit it out of the park, to use a baseball term, with his first entry into the series. Mr. Bentley nails the toughness and no nonsense of Rapp’s personality while weaving an excellent story.
Capture or Kill has a little more detail when it comes to the weaponry and vehicles Rapp enlists compared to when Kyle Mills was writing Rapp. If that isn’t your thing, don’t worry it does not take away from the flow or pace of the story at all. You can tell that Mr. Bentley has a background with Apache Helicopters as he provided great detail and insight that added to the story as Rapp was moving around the Middle East.
Mr. Bentley fills the book with fast paced action and lots of detail of what is going on. I found this book extremely hard to put down as I quickly read page after page. By having this book set thirteen years ago, Mr. Bentley is smartly able to bring some well loved characters from the series back. He also is able to provide some insight and thoughts from these characters with the help of knowing what is going to happen over the next ten or so years. I think this added a lot to the book and the depth of these characters that would not have been possible in 2011.
I was super excited when I heard Mr. Bentley was taking over the Mitch Rapp series as I had already read all of his book and was a big fan. I am happy to say with Capture or Kill, Mr. Bentley met my high expectations and even exceeded them in some ways. This is a top notch thriller that is a must read in 2024! Thank you to Don Bentley, Emily Bestler Books, VinceFlynn.com, Simon & Schuster, and David Brown (aka The Atria Mystery Bus) for a free advanced reader’s copy for an honest review.
The people making the decisions on who to continue Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp series are on point again. First it was Kyle Mills who honored the Rapp character while taking it to new levels. Now it is Don Bentley who has hit it out of the park, to use a baseball term, with his first entry into the series. Mr. Bentley nails the toughness and no nonsense of Rapp’s personality while weaving an excellent story.
Capture or Kill has a little more detail when it comes to the weaponry and vehicles Rapp enlists compared to when Kyle Mills was writing Rapp. If that isn’t your thing, don’t worry it does not take away from the flow or pace of the story at all. You can tell that Mr. Bentley has a background with Apache Helicopters as he provided great detail and insight that added to the story as Rapp was moving around the Middle East.
Mr. Bentley fills the book with fast paced action and lots of detail of what is going on. I found this book extremely hard to put down as I quickly read page after page. By having this book set thirteen years ago, Mr. Bentley is smartly able to bring some well loved characters from the series back. He also is able to provide some insight and thoughts from these characters with the help of knowing what is going to happen over the next ten or so years. I think this added a lot to the book and the depth of these characters that would not have been possible in 2011.
I was super excited when I heard Mr. Bentley was taking over the Mitch Rapp series as I had already read all of his book and was a big fan. I am happy to say with Capture or Kill, Mr. Bentley met my high expectations and even exceeded them in some ways. This is a top notch thriller that is a must read in 2024! Thank you to Don Bentley, Emily Bestler Books, VinceFlynn.com, Simon & Schuster, and David Brown (aka The Atria Mystery Bus) for a free advanced reader’s copy for an honest review.
August 14, 2025
A riveting addition to the legacy that is Mitch Rapp. This story is everything that we have come to love and expect from the world and warrior that Vince Flynn created. Blistering action. Incredible suspense. Competing agendas as rivals play the ever-changing chess match of international espionage, all set during the hunt for America's most infamous enemy, Osama Bin Laden. Don Bentley's acumen and expertise bursts off the page, crafting an adventure of precision detail and high stakes intensity as only he can do it. If you haven't done so already, CAPTURE OR KILL is a must read before the release of Don's next Mitch Rapp novel, DENIED ACCESS, out everywhere on 9/30/25.
November 8, 2024
This was the authors first entry into the series and the book never quite lived up to its predecessors. Setting the story in the past and inserting Rapp into a real life event were both choices that didn’t land for me. While I did feel the author captured the essence of Rapp well overall, there were still times he seemed to be acting out of character. And while the character may be new to the author, he is not to the readers; there were often sections that read as if we’d never met this character before. The writing also relied on a lot of exposition that, while interesting, did not move the plot along. The actual content was a bit light - not surprising with the average chapter being just 4.5 pages. While I was disappointed as a whole, there were still flashes of potential and I’ll give him a few more shots in the series.
September 24, 2024
to wordy
I have read all of the Rapp novels written by Vince Flynn but this written one by Mr Bentley is much to wordy. He breaks every area of action with long descriptions of the past history of persons or events that immediately ruins the tension of the action of the moment. This happens almost every time there is an intense or action scene.
I have read all of the Rapp novels written by Vince Flynn but this written one by Mr Bentley is much to wordy. He breaks every area of action with long descriptions of the past history of persons or events that immediately ruins the tension of the action of the moment. This happens almost every time there is an intense or action scene.
October 15, 2024
I must confess; this was only the second Vince Flynn book I've read, but it was highly entertaining. The star of the show is obviously Mitch Rapp, Flynn's equivalent of the Gray Man. Props to Mark Greaney for that series; I can't wait for Midnight Black's release in late February!! But I digress. Bottom line is: if you're looking for a page turner adventure that will keep you guessing till the very end, this one's for you. A very good effort and well worth the time.
July 26, 2024
Don Bentley's first novel as a part of the Vince Flynn Family, "Capture or Kill," captures the essence of the original Mitch Rapp. Fans of Vince Flynn's old-school Mitch Rapp will appreciate Bentley's portrayal, as it stays true to the character's roots. The plot was intense making the reader ask for more. Don is a wordsmith by trade and killed it with Capture or Kill. Mitch Rapp is in good hands with Don Bentley. I can't wait to see what he does next.
August 4, 2024
Taking us back in the Mitch Rapp timeline, Don Bentley does a stellar job as he takes over writing the series from Kyle Mills. Don does a masterful job keeping you on the edge of your seat and pulling you into the story, leaving you breathless at times. I, for one, cannot wait to see where Don takes Mitch Rapp as he continues the series that started my love for this genre of thriller. I am positive, that with Don’s background, knowledge, and research skills, we will thoroughly enjoy everything that comes next.
September 2, 2024
First time with Don Bentley as the author carrying this story line forward. It was a fairly good read, but I don't feel like it was one of the best of this series I've read. It had been so long since I had read the other books in this series, it took a while to get into the characters. There were so many characters involved that at times it was difficult to remember who was who. Overall not bad, but not great either.
June 8, 2025
A reluctant three stars. Like kissing your cousin. Technically fine, but something just feels off.
Well, folks, the Flynn-to-Mills-to-Bentley handoff is complete, and let me just say... it's giving mid. I’m not saying Bentley fumbled the bag. The bag made it to the end zone, but he definitely spike-celebrated a 5-yard gain like it was a game-winner.
Rapp is back, but he’s wearing a slightly unfamiliar skin. He’s still snarling and stabbing his way through terrorists like it’s his divine purpose, but there’s something off in the cadence. The menace? The moral clarity? The sheer testosterone-soaked nihilism that Flynn baked into every chapter like it was a war crime soufflé? It's... not quite here. Bentley writes Rapp like he’s trying to impress Flynn’s ghost while also pitching a screenplay to Amazon Prime.
And don’t get me started on the bin Laden raid.
Oh, you thought Mitch wouldn’t be involved in that piece of history? Of course he was. He probably designed the helicopters, briefed the SEALs, and patched up the dog afterward. It’s canon now. Cope.
Stan Hurley shows up like a bearded ghost of Christmas past: cranky, crusty, and perfectly unnecessary. But also? I loved every second. Inject Stan into my veins. Make a Stan Hurley prequel trilogy where he just drinks and punches people in Cold War Berlin. I’d read the receipts.
But let’s be honest. This wasn’t bad. It just wasn’t Mitch Rapp™️: The Original Recipe. It was a franchise entry. Competent, fast-paced, and kind of like the fourth bowl of Frosted Flakes: the sugar’s still there, but the milk's gone gray and you're just chewing out of obligation.
Now I’ve got nothing until September when Book #24 drops.
Until then? I’m diving into Orphan X. Time to see how Evan Smoak handles daddy issues and domestic terrorism.
Rapp out.
Well, folks, the Flynn-to-Mills-to-Bentley handoff is complete, and let me just say... it's giving mid. I’m not saying Bentley fumbled the bag. The bag made it to the end zone, but he definitely spike-celebrated a 5-yard gain like it was a game-winner.
Rapp is back, but he’s wearing a slightly unfamiliar skin. He’s still snarling and stabbing his way through terrorists like it’s his divine purpose, but there’s something off in the cadence. The menace? The moral clarity? The sheer testosterone-soaked nihilism that Flynn baked into every chapter like it was a war crime soufflé? It's... not quite here. Bentley writes Rapp like he’s trying to impress Flynn’s ghost while also pitching a screenplay to Amazon Prime.
And don’t get me started on the bin Laden raid.
Oh, you thought Mitch wouldn’t be involved in that piece of history? Of course he was. He probably designed the helicopters, briefed the SEALs, and patched up the dog afterward. It’s canon now. Cope.
Stan Hurley shows up like a bearded ghost of Christmas past: cranky, crusty, and perfectly unnecessary. But also? I loved every second. Inject Stan into my veins. Make a Stan Hurley prequel trilogy where he just drinks and punches people in Cold War Berlin. I’d read the receipts.
But let’s be honest. This wasn’t bad. It just wasn’t Mitch Rapp™️: The Original Recipe. It was a franchise entry. Competent, fast-paced, and kind of like the fourth bowl of Frosted Flakes: the sugar’s still there, but the milk's gone gray and you're just chewing out of obligation.
Now I’ve got nothing until September when Book #24 drops.
Until then? I’m diving into Orphan X. Time to see how Evan Smoak handles daddy issues and domestic terrorism.
Rapp out.
December 27, 2024
I spent most of this book confused. Why are we going back in time? Are we though? or was the series always set in the late 90s early 2000s and I didnt realize? Where is Claudia Gould? Is she in fact from the Mitch Rapp series or did I dream it or get my series mixed up?
I only realized that Claudia wasn't yet a part of Rapp's life when Hurley appeared. Wait what Stan Hurley? Hurley is alive? Why is he just now appearing towards the end of the book? And wait a minute, wasnt the Nash promotion AFTER Hurley's death? And Irene's kidnapping as well, wasn't Hurley dead by then?
Not to mention Marcus. If he was around all this time, why would he be on vacation during one of the biggest manhunts of American history? Why is he only being brought in on the backend and at the eleventh hour?
And how could a Bin Laden hunt be a sidenote for another story?? In My mind such an important subject matter would be the main and in fact only topic of a book. The fact that it wasn't, made the story feel sloppy and held together with spit and duct tape.
Its a no for me.
I only realized that Claudia wasn't yet a part of Rapp's life when Hurley appeared. Wait what Stan Hurley? Hurley is alive? Why is he just now appearing towards the end of the book? And wait a minute, wasnt the Nash promotion AFTER Hurley's death? And Irene's kidnapping as well, wasn't Hurley dead by then?
Not to mention Marcus. If he was around all this time, why would he be on vacation during one of the biggest manhunts of American history? Why is he only being brought in on the backend and at the eleventh hour?
And how could a Bin Laden hunt be a sidenote for another story?? In My mind such an important subject matter would be the main and in fact only topic of a book. The fact that it wasn't, made the story feel sloppy and held together with spit and duct tape.
Its a no for me.
December 9, 2024
I read this book against my better judgment. I am not a fan of Don Bentley. His works on the Jack Ryan Jr. series is a contributing factor on my walking away from the novels. When I learned that Kyle Mills was stepping away from the Mitch Rapp books I was dejected. His book run ended the series perfectly! I was not looking forward to someone else stepping into the shoes of Mitch Rapp, so I dragged reading this book. My fears were correct. Capture of Kill was firstly, boring! Almost nothing cool or exciting happened in this book. I was relieved it was over. Secondly, the synopsis says the novel is about finding Bin Laden. This was not a plot point in the book until the last 1/4 of the novel. Then the twist happened. No spoilers but this "twist" came outta nowhere and was quite confusing. The twist is the only reason I gave Capture or Kill 2 stars. It was not great, but unexpected and in the vein of Marvel's Multiverse. I feel like this book was a waste of my time.
September 8, 2024
I have read all of the Mitch Rapp books and found them enjoyable and literary strong. However Capture or Kill was a great disappointment. There was too much verbiage which reflected a need
to fill pages. To bring Stan Hurley back in this book after he was killed two books ago was quite a
STRETCH. One might want to ask David Silvia to write the next Rapp book.
to fill pages. To bring Stan Hurley back in this book after he was killed two books ago was quite a
STRETCH. One might want to ask David Silvia to write the next Rapp book.
September 30, 2024
Sorry, but I rarely leave a book unfinished, but I had to on this one. Over explanations, superfluous adjectives and going back in time to characters long dead. When Kyle took over there were some changes but the styles were similar enough that it worked, this time not so much. I found myself saying shut up and get to the story.
August 1, 2024
I'd like to thank Atria, Don Bentley, and the folks at VinceFlynn.com for being selected as a Mitch Rapp Ambassador and receiving an ARC of Capture or Kill.
Stepping into the shoes worn by Kyle Mills and Vince Flynn seems like a Herculean task by any standard. In Don Bentley's first outing with Mitch Rapp, he knocks it out of the park and shows us that Rapp is in excellent hands.
Capture or Kill takes us back to 2011 and the hunt for Osama bin Laden. CIA Director Irene Kennedy is certain she has located the bin Laden compound on Pakistan, but the President is demanding proof of life before greenlighting the raid. Elsewhere, Quds Force operatives have created a new weapon that could drastically change America's war capabilities in the Middle East.
Two massive problems require one specialized solution: Mitch Rapp.
Don Bentley's first dive into the Rapp-verse is an excellent ride. Having this novel take place in 2011 allows for so many interesting points: a younger and incredibly dangerous Mitch Rapp, the slow shifting of the political climate for the War on Terror, and the largest manhunt in recent history.
The story is a fantastic read, showcasing Bentley's ability to understand existing characters while introducing new ones that are just as complex. This should come as no surprise, as Bentley has an incredible track record of creating wonderful characters (Matt Drake) and understanding existing ones (Jack Ryan Jr.)
The best praise I can give this book is that it's exactly what I wanted out of a Mitch Rapp book written by Don Bentley. If you're already a fan of Mitch Rapp or Don Bentley, you'll be thrilled. If you're a fan of both (and you should be) you're in for an exceptional experience.
Capture or Kill is a 5 star read from start to finish. It has all of the elements the world has come to know from Mitch Rapp, with the action, pacing, and humor that has become signature to Don Bentley. Make sure you pre-order now, so that you can be ready on 09/03 when Mitch Rapp is back.
Stepping into the shoes worn by Kyle Mills and Vince Flynn seems like a Herculean task by any standard. In Don Bentley's first outing with Mitch Rapp, he knocks it out of the park and shows us that Rapp is in excellent hands.
Capture or Kill takes us back to 2011 and the hunt for Osama bin Laden. CIA Director Irene Kennedy is certain she has located the bin Laden compound on Pakistan, but the President is demanding proof of life before greenlighting the raid. Elsewhere, Quds Force operatives have created a new weapon that could drastically change America's war capabilities in the Middle East.
Two massive problems require one specialized solution: Mitch Rapp.
Don Bentley's first dive into the Rapp-verse is an excellent ride. Having this novel take place in 2011 allows for so many interesting points: a younger and incredibly dangerous Mitch Rapp, the slow shifting of the political climate for the War on Terror, and the largest manhunt in recent history.
The story is a fantastic read, showcasing Bentley's ability to understand existing characters while introducing new ones that are just as complex. This should come as no surprise, as Bentley has an incredible track record of creating wonderful characters (Matt Drake) and understanding existing ones (Jack Ryan Jr.)
The best praise I can give this book is that it's exactly what I wanted out of a Mitch Rapp book written by Don Bentley. If you're already a fan of Mitch Rapp or Don Bentley, you'll be thrilled. If you're a fan of both (and you should be) you're in for an exceptional experience.
Capture or Kill is a 5 star read from start to finish. It has all of the elements the world has come to know from Mitch Rapp, with the action, pacing, and humor that has become signature to Don Bentley. Make sure you pre-order now, so that you can be ready on 09/03 when Mitch Rapp is back.
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